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Jazz (Movie)

2010-06-19T20:18:06Z

76.180.61.89: /* Human Alliance */

{{factions|autobotfilm}}
{{disambig3|Jazz}}
:''Jazz is an [[Autobot]] from the [[Movie (franchise)|2007 movie franchise]] in the [[Live-action film series|live-action film]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:MovieJazz promorender.jpg|right|350px|thumb|"Slide with me. Just bounce with me. Now freeze!"]]
First Lieutenant '''Jazz''' is one happy-go-lucky Autobot. Good-natured and always able to take things in stride, he provides a decent contrast to the more serious demeanor of [[Ironhide (Movie)|Ironhide]] or [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Prime]] himself. He's also a talker, something Ironhide and Prime like to tease him about. He might be the smallest Autobot but he's by no means a coward, willing to take on any foe, big or small.

{{bigquote|Oh, I got something ''real'' flashy in mind!|Jazz gets ready to create a distraction, [[Transformers The Game (console)|Transformers The Game]]}}

==Fiction==
===IDW ''Transformers'' movie comics===
[[Image:Defiance1 Ratchet Jazz vocalprocessors.jpg|left|250px|thumb|Kup and Ratchet like blaming turbo revvin young punks.]]
Many years before the civil war on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], Jazz was a member of the Security Force under [[Prowl (Movie)|Prowl]]. As Optimus pondered the venerable age of the artifacts they had found at an excavation near the temple of [[Simfur]], Jazz jokingly asked if they were as old as [[Ratchet (Movie)|Ratchet]], earning him a threat of [[vocal processor]]-disabling retribution and a wack on the back of the head. He was present when [[Arcee (Movie)|Arcee's]] team found a strange artifact with the [[Decepticon|strange symbol]] and helped escort the relic out of the dig site when the aliens whom Commander [[Starscream (Movie)|Starscream]] had encountered earlier suddenly attacked the planet. {{storylink|Defiance issue 1}}

In the aftermath, Jazz accompanied Prowl as the latter investigated the attack on the Simfur temple. Prowl theorised that the aliens were trying to break into the temple, not destroy it, Jazz opinied that they must have been after the [[AllSpark (Movie)|All Spark]]. When Megatron rallied Cybertron's inhabitants to war against the alien attackers, Jazz and most of the others in the science and security division loyally stayed at Optimus's side to uphold the ideals of Cybertron. Later, when Prime mentioned Megatron's questionable behavior and wished there was unity in the population, Jazz pointed out that he had the same chance of convincing Megatron to be unified as they do of being considered part of his army. Realising sentries such as Prowl and Jazz had access to Megatron's personal quarters, Prime asked them for a favour. {{storylink|Defiance issue 2}}

Jazz accompanied Optimus and Prowl to Megatron's quarters, where Optimus discovered that the relic previously unearthed seemed to have been restored by Megatron himself. Later, Jazz was part of the team sent to arrest Optimus for treason. However, on the way to Trypticon, the group were ambushed by members of the [[Defense Force]] sent to kill them. Optimus directed the others in a successful counter attack and ordered the group to rally at Burthov. {{storylink|Defiance issue 3}}

Jazz and several other former security officers helped [[Cliffjumper (Movie)|Cliffjumper]] "capture" the former military officer [[Ironhide (Movie)|Ironhide]] and bring him into the rebel base to see Optimus '''Prime'''. Later after it was discovered that Megatron was building a massive starship for some unknown purpose, Jazz was the one who suggested they should have their own ship as well, just in case. During the subsequent civil war, Jazz fought alongside Optimus Prime in their struggle for freedom, but as the war reached its height, Optimus decided to launch the All Spark into space to keep it out of Lord Megatron's hands and to buy them time. {{storylink|Defiance issue 4}} [[Bumblebee (Movie)|Bumblebee]] was successful in diverting the Decepticon leader's attention at [[Tyger Pax]], but was grievously injured as a result. Jazz was part of the team that discovered him in the wreckage after the Decepticons had left. {{storylink|Movie Prequel issue 1}}

As the Autobots prepared to leave Cybertron to go after Megatron and the All Spark, Optimus Prime expressed concern on if the remaining civilians and Autobots on Cybertron could hold out while they were gone. Jazz informed him that their troops were laying low, but if the Decepticons tried any mischief, they would be in for a nasty surprise. {{storylink|The Reign of Starscream issue 1}}
{{-}}

===''Ghosts Of Yesterday'' prequel novel===
Onboard the ''Ark'', Jazz was the first to detect the ''[[Ghost 1|Ghost 1's]]'' presence, and was later badly damaged in a fight with the Decepticons. After being repaired, he and [[Ratchet (Movie)|Ratchet]] fought together against [[Barricade (Movie)|Barricade]]. {{storylink|Ghosts of Yesterday}}

{{charstubfiction}}

===Titan Magazines ''Transformers'' movie comics===
Jazz likes "to keep his bodywork ''buff''" by externalizing his [[Spark]] Core forcefield - in the past, that led to him almost being killed when [[Bonecrusher (Movie)|Bonecrusher]] almost tore out his unprotected Spark. He only survived thanks to fellow Autobot [[Clocker (Movie)|Clocker]], who was killed covering his retreat. {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 6|Lost In Space 4: Jazz}}

When the [[AllSpark (Movie)|All Spark]] was launched, Jazz, [[Ratchet (Movie)|Ratchet]] and [[Ironhide (Movie)|Ironhide]] attempted to distract Megatron from pursuing it. They ended up attacked by [[Brawl (Movie)|Devastator]] and warped across space by a [[foldspace warhead]]. {{storylink|Prelude: Megatron}}

[[Image:JazzTitan06.JPG|left|250px|thumb|"I HAVE SEEN THE LORD!"]]

Jazz ended up on a planet that he dubbed "the Information Highway"—a constantly-morphing world with "the accumulated knowledge of countless alien cultures, condensed into some kind of sensory precipitation". He loved this world and the constant new experiences so much that he deliberately ignored Ratchet's homing beacon, wanting to stay here forever. However, the planet was alive and predatory, and ended up absorbing him into it - he fired off a warning buoy to stop others arriving, and only this led to Ratchet & Ironhide finding where he was and rescuing him. {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 6|Lost In Space 4: Jazz}}

He doesn't like the war and, as the Information Highway incident shows, has no qualms about deserting if given the opportunity.
{{-}}
{{notetitantlg}}
Because of a lack of troops on [[Earth]], Ratchet used a corrupted fragment of the All Spark to bring Jazz back to life.<ref name="allsparkjazzbio"> '''All Spark-Enhanced Autobot Jazz''' bio</ref> Happy to be back, Jazz blew off the suggestion that death had made any impact beyond him wanting to live every day as if it was his last, and he was dispatched with Ratchet to secure a raw energon field.

[[Image:JazzTitan21.JPG|right|250px|thumb|"And my sound effects are inane!"]]

Unfortunately, it turned out the corrupted fragment had indeed led to Jazz himself being corrupted; he paralyzed Ratchet and attempted to exploit Earth's apocalypse by selling the newly energon rich planet to the highest bidder. His auction was interrupted by [[Dreadwing (Movie)|Dreadwing]], who rejected an offer to join forces, and attacked. Ratchet revived and managed to destroy the energon field the auction was being held in; Jazz escaped in the resulting confusion. {{storylink|Dark Spark}}

He later kept back as a happy hired gun for [[Starscream (Movie)|Starscream]], out to murder Optimus Prime. He was prevented from this when the ''second'' hired gun, [[Kullt]], turned up; he realised Starscream didn't trust him to be able kill an old comrade and was so insulted he gunned down the other mercenary. He was left rattled when Optimus pointed out he could have let Kullt do the work for him and ''then'' gun him down, which suggested there was still some goodness in him. He drove off in the face of reinforcements, vowing to prove Optimus wrong next time. {{storylink|Hard Target}}

{{note|He wasn't seen again before the alternate universe was wrapped up.}}

===''Transformers'' (2007) film===
:''Voice actor:'' [[Darius McCrary]] (English), [[Taiten Kusunoki]] (Japanese), [[Torsten Michaelis]] (German), [[Reginaldo Primo]] (Brazil)

[[Image:Movie2007 Jazz dealership.jpg|left|250px|thumb|Why buy? When you can be!]]
Jazz was part of Optimus Prime's unit, summoned to Earth by [[Bumblebee (Movie)|Bumblebee]] after the latter Autobot came to be in the possession of [[Sam Witwicky]]. After his [[protoform]] crashed through a baseball stadium, he investigated a nearby car dealership and chose a Pontiac Solstice hardtop as his vehicle mode.

[[Image:Jazz movie ally.JPG|right|250px|thumb|Sadly, the other car's owner only had liability.]]

Linking up with his fellow Autobots in a deserted alley, Jazz greeted Sam and [[Mikaela Banes]] as "little bitches," stating that Earth seems to be a cool place to hang out. He casually sat on the hood of another car while Optimus Prime explained to Sam they learnt Earth's languages through the internet. He then relayed their mission to find the [[AllSpark (Movie)|All Spark]] and explained how his [[Archibald Witwicky|grandfather's]] glasses were the key to its location.

Soon after, as Sam looked for his grandfather's glasses, the Autobots attempted to assist by clumsily destroying the yard where they went. When it came to hide from [[Ronald Witwicky|the]] [[Judy Witwicky|parents]], Jazz had the easiest time blending into the shadows due to his small stature.

[[Image:Movie Jazz Sector Seven.JPG|thumb|left|250px|You'll get them back at the end of class.]]
When Sam and Mikaela were captured by [[Sector Seven]], the Autobots mounted a rescue that saw Optimus Prime tearing the roof off [[Seymour Simmons|Agent Simmons's]] vehicle. When the agents attempted to resist, Jazz used a magnet to relieve the humans of their weapons. After Bumblebee was captured by Sector Seven during the retreat, Jazz expressed his desire to rescue him, but was overruled by Optimus Prime, who didn't believe it possible to accomplish this without harming the humans, and so they should let them go.

The next day, after Optimus used his navigation scanner on Archibald Witwicky's glasses, Jazz again commented that they could not leave Bumblebee to die at the hands of Sector Seven, to become a human experiment. Optimus replied that Bumblebee would die in vain if they did not find the All Spark, and when Ironhide asked if the primitive and cruel humans deserved to be saved, Optimus countered by asking if Transformers were so different in the past. Going on to explain what he saw in the humans, Prime declared that if it came to it, he would sacrifice himself to destroy the All Spark - the humans should not pay for Cybertron's mistakes. Inspired by his words, Jazz and the other Autobots rolled out, filled with determination.

[[Image:Movie Jazz on Brawl.JPG|right|250px|thumb|"Come on, Decepticon punk!" "MY MISSILE LAUNCHER! That's like a reproductive organ to me!"]]

On the way to [[Hoover Dam]], the Autobots encountered Bumblebee leading a column of Sector Seven assault vehicles. Jazz and his fellow Autobots applied brakes and did a hard u-turn to join the formation.

Entering [[Mission City]], the [[William Lennox|human]] [[Robert Epps|soldiers]] tried to call for air support from their own forces, only to be attacked by [[Starscream (Movie)|Starscream]] disguised as a human F-22 fighter. Jazz, oddly, sat in vehicle mode after the explosion which crippled Bumblebee, destroying his legs. When [[Brawl (Movie)|Devastator]] began shelling the battle site, Jazz led the Autobot charge toward the Decepticon, speeding to the tank in vehicle mode, then transformed and hopped on top of the turret to distract the Decepticon from the humans. As Devastator also transformed, Jazz managed to wreck his left-side rocket launcher pod before being tossed off. He then sped back to the battle, firing at Devastator, while [[Ratchet (Movie)|Ratchet]] sliced of Devastator's left arm.

[[Image:Jazz DyingAction.jpg|left|250px|thumb|"Wait, why did I tell everyone to retreat again?"]]

Jazz tried to delay [[Megatron (Movie)|Megatron]] when he appeared on the scene in order to cover the escape Captain Lennox's men and civilians. Despite Lennox's cries for him to fall back, Jazz bravely faced Megatron alone, but all he got for his trouble was being blasted by the Decepticon's fusion cannon. As Ironhide and Ratchet escorted Sam and the All Spark to safety, Megatron preyed upon the small Autobot who had the audacity to attack him. The Decepticon leader tossed him through the air, then landed upon him with the crushing grip of his talons. Valiantly, Jazz fought on to the bitter end as Megatron tore him in two, throwing his pieces to the ground before attacking Optimus Prime.

[[Image:Movie Prime Jazz Ironhide Ratchet battleaftermath.jpg|right|250px|thumb|"We lost a great comrade today. We'll miss you, Blues." "His name was ''Jazz'', Prime." "Whatever."]]

After being separated from Sam Witwicky, Ratchet hurried to Jazz, but his [[spark]] had already faded. In the aftermath of Megatron's defeat, Ironhide somberly handed Optimus Prime Jazz's remains as Ratchet reported that he could not save their comrade. The Autobot leader somewhat half-heartedly eulogized him, and quickly moved on. {{storylink|Transformers (2007)|Transformers}}
{{-}}

===Toy packaging bios===
{{notemoviebio}}

Before coming to Earth, Jazz was involved in a deep-space battle over a barren world. He was badly damaged in the conflict and was taken offline by Brawl. After he was fixed up and upgraded his endoskeleton reinforcements, he had a renewed determination to keep his vehicle mode in pristine condition.<ref>'''Premium series''' bio</ref>

In the final battle for the AllSpark, Jazz faced off against Bonecrusher for a last battle to the absolute finish.<ref>'''Autobot Jazz vs. Bonecrusher''' bio,</ref> Also in that battle, Jazz took on Megatron alone, as everyone else was preoccupied with Brawl. Although he knew he didn't stand a chance, he would go down fighting for the weak, as a true Autobot would. <ref>'''Battle Jazz vs. Ice Megatron''' bio</ref>

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Jazz was left badly damaged as a result of those confrontations.

Ratchet rebuilt Jazz in what turned out to be a long recovery process. Jazz had time to think. And think he did, about a new paintjob!<ref>Target Exclusive Generation 1-style '''Autobot Jazz''' bio</ref>

Jazz came back, and more powerful than ever due to the power of the AllSpark. <ref name="allsparkjazzbio"/> {{storylink|Dark Spark}}

{{note|Jazz's fate in the film is about as unambiguous a depiction of a [[Death|Transformer death]] as one could hope for. [[Michael Bay]], when speaking on the subject, stated emphatically, "Jazz is dead". This puts the weight of [[authorial intent]] on the side of Jazz being truly deceased. Later, in the ''Revenge of the Fallen'' prequel comic, Optimus Prime asked to have Jazz's remains buried. Despite all this, bio information on his Target-exclusive [[redeco]] clearly said that he was rebuilt by Ratchet. Make of this what you will. His Allspark power bio says he came back by the power of the AllSpark. This actually happened in an [[Dark Spark|alternate timeline]].}}

===Beast Wars Diorama Story===

At some point, Jazz and multiple Autobots and Decepticons traversed dimensions and found themselves on a different [[Earth]], in the distant past. They crossed paths with new Transformer factions, the [[Maximal]]s and the [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]]s, who were engaged in a conflict called the [[Beast Wars (franchise)|Beast Wars]]. A battle broke out between the four factions. The Autobots and the Decepticons eventually returned to their home dimension, leaving the Maximals and Predacons behind to settle the Beast Wars. {{storylink|Beast Wars Diorama Story}}

===Battle Bio===
Jazz was presumed dead after the battle of [[Mission City]], but he was revived by a piece of the [[AllSpark (Movie)|AllSpark]] and a little help from [[Ratchet (Movie)|Ratchet]]. He is anxious to get back into action.<ref>Jazz's [http://www.hasbro.com/transformers/en_US/discover/Battle-Bios.cfm Battle Bio].</ref>

===IDW ''Transformers'' movie comics===
[[Image:Alliance1 Ironhide-Jazz momentofsilence.jpg|right|250px|thumb|He's dead Jim.]]
Shortly after the battle in Mission City, Captain Lennox, Sergeant Epps and the other soldiers helped Ironhide find suitable transportation for Jazz's remains. As Ironhide sombrely placed Jazz's body into the trailer, the soldiers lowered their heads in honour of the Autobot who sacrificed his life to save theirs. {{storylink|Alliance issue 1}}

Later in the Nevada Desert, Optimus Prime and the other Autobots arrived with Jazz's remains. The Autobots escorted the Decepticons' carcasses while the U.S Navy planned on giving a proper burial ceremony for Jazz. {{storylink|Alliance issue 2}} Weeks later, the Autobots and their soldier friends are on a US Navy aircraft carrier for Jazz's burial at sea. A crane hoisted the trailer containing Jazz's body and dropped it into the ocean. Optimus Prime thanked Lennox for his participation in Jazz's Funeral. {{storylink|Alliance issue 3}}
{{-}}

==Games==
===Transformers The Game (console)===
:''Voice actor'': [[Andrew Kishino]]

====Autobot campaign====
[[Image:VGE4M3Jazzkabob.jpg|right|250px|thumb|"Ironhide, check this out." "Cool, a piñata!" "...Hate...both of...you..."]]
Jazz arrived on Earth as part of Optimus Prime's unit, summoned to the [[human]] planet by Bumblebee. After taking on the form of a Pontiac Solstice, he met up with the other Autobots. His first mission was to distract Sector Seven and law enforcement units, which he did, buying his fellow Autobots time to escape. Jazz was then surrounded by Sector Seven SUVs and Decepticon drones numerous times, requiring Ironhide's help to escape.

He would then make his way to [[Mission City]], where he engaged [[Starscream (Movie)|Starscream]], [[Blackout (Movie)|Blackout]] and two [[Dreadwing (Movie)|Dreadwing]] drones. Jazz defeated all four of them, but as he celebrated his great victory, [[Brawl (Movie)|Brawl]] appeared behind him and punctured Jazz's chest with his claw, extinguishing his [[spark]]. [[Ironhide (Movie)|Ironhide]] arrived just in time to witness the killing, swore he'd make Brawl's death slow, and fought through a horde of Decepticon units to destroy him. {{storylink|Transformers The Game (console)|Transformers The Game}}

{{note|Press left, up, down(2), left, up, right, at the New game menu. The screen will flash to confirm the code was entered correctly. Go to the bonus features, then the [[Generation 1]] option to use a G1-homage deco on Jazz. This does not change his appearance in the Decepticon campaign, however.}}

====Decepticon campaign====
Jazz arrived in Mission City with Sam and Mikaela (taking the role of the destroyed Bumblebee), where he was confronted by [[Barricade (Movie)|Barricade]]. After a brief chase through the city, Jazz engaged Barricade in battle, where he was defeated with ease. {{storylink|Transformers The Game (console)|Transformers The Game}}
{{-}}

===''Transformers: Autobots''===
Jazz's first appearance is with the other Autobots, meeting in an old junk yard. Setting out into the city, he retrieved a number of [[Sector Seven]] vehicles before running into [[Blackout (Movie)|Blackout]]; after a tedious battle, Blackout ran. Returning to the group, Jazz informs that Sector Seven holds Megatron and the AllSpark in the Hoover Dam and has patrols looking for the Autobots, which Bumblebee volunteered to distract them, getting himself caught in the progres. Jazz later upload a virus to access Sector Seven mainframe, and downloaded data from a military hanger. Jazz was able to get the data, despite being outnumbered by remote vehicles, returned to the rendevous point, which he reported that he was able to find an entrance to the base and Bumblebee, but could not find Megatron and the AllSpark. Jazz tells Optimus that resuing Bumblebee be their first priority because of Bumblebee's tracking ability, which Optmus agrees. When the Autobots returned to Tranquility with the AllSpark, Jazz required assistance to take out spark drones within the area. Create-A-Bot answered the call and both Autobots took out 50 drones. With the drones destroyed, Jazz stayed where he was in case more show up and told Create-A-Bot to check on Bumblebee. After that, he was not seen again. {{storylink|Transformers Autobots/Decepticons|Transformers: Autobots}}

===''Transformers: Decepticons''===
At the [[Hoover Dam]], Jazz set up several automated turrets and Autobot drones around the lower perimeter of the Dam, preventing [[Megatron (Movie)|Megatron]] from escaping. However, this line of defense only works for so long, as the turrets could only fire at air-borne objects. Finally getting up the side of the Dam, Jazz stepped in Megatron's path, doing little more than trash talking before Megatron jumped into battle. After a roughly equal fight, Jazz finally fell. Megatron then finished him off and desecrated the Autobot's corpse. {{storylink|Transformers Autobots/Decepticons|Transformers: Autobots}}

===''Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen'' - The Game===
[[Image:ROTF_360PS3PC_MovieJazz_DLC.jpg|thumb|250px|It's a zombie! Kill it! Kill it with fire!]]
:''Voice actor: Andrew Kishino''
====Xbox 360/Sony PS3/PC====
{{Note|On [[August 27]], [[2009]], Jazz was one of a handful of downloadable characters in a DLC pack for Xbox 360 and Sony Playstation 3.}}
{{storylink|Revenge of the Fallen (Xbox 360/PS3/PC)|Revenge of the Fallen}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Transformers (2007)===
====Legends Class toys====
[[Image:Movie Legends Jazz toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|WhY My buMPeRs hUrT?]]
*'''Autobot Jazz''' (Legends Class, 2007)
**''Japanese name:'' '''EZ Collection Jazz'''

:A much smaller version of the character, [[Legends Class|Legends-class]] Jazz features limited articulation and detail, along with a much simpler transformation. A rather glaring side-effect of this simplicity, in a desire to mimic the hood chest of the larger toy, is the addition of [[kibble]]: a second front bumper on the roof of his alt-mode. Whether this means Jazz also includes a second engine to go with this front bumper or an attempt at compensation for a case of [[Barricade (Movie)|police car envy]] is unknown. Ironically, the smallest version of Jazz is the biggest Legends toy in the movie line. Even bigger than Optimus. This may make up for the Arcee toy being taller than his Deluxe figure.

:This mold will also used to make ''[[Revenge of the Fallen (franchise)|Revenge of the Fallen]]'' [[Runamuck (ROTF)|Runamuck]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2007/Autobot/LegendsJazz/jazz.htm More information on Legends Jazz at TFU.info]''

{{-}}

*'''Optimus Prime bonus pack''' (Costco exclusive multi-pack, 2007)

:A Costco exclusive special pack of Leader Class [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]] with Legends Class [[Bumblebee (Movie)|Bumblebee]] and Autobot Jazz as bonus figures. None of the three toys is changed from their respective original releases.

{{-}}

[[Image:Movie Allspark Legends pack.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Why's the man always putting me down?]]
*'''Battle for the Allspark''' (Toys'R'Us exclusive Legends multi-pack, 2007)

:A Toys "R" Us exclusive, this six-pack of Legends class figures contains unmodified toys of [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]], Jazz, [[Bumblebee (Movie)|Bumblebee]], [[Megatron (Movie)|Megatron]], [[Starscream (Movie)|Starscream]] and [[Barricade (Movie)|Barricade]].

{{-}}

[[Image:Movie Legends JazzBonecrusher toys.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Bonecrusher tried to make Jazz smaller by slamming his head in.]]
*'''Autobot Jazz vs. Bonecrusher''' (Legends "Allspark Battles" two-pack, 2008)

:As part of the ''AllSpark Battles'' refresh of the ''Movie'' toyline, Legends class Jazz with slightly different deco with more paint for his robot mode chest... but no paint for the vehicle mode hood while the vehicle mode windows are now blue, painted on all sides,he also has black paint on his spoiler. He is packed in a versus two-pack with an all-new Legends class figure of [[Bonecrusher (Movie)|Bonecrusher]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2008/Autobot/LegendsJazz/jazz.htm More information on Allspark Battles Jazz at TFU.info]''

{{-}}

[[Image:Movie Legends JazzIceMegatron toys.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Megatron's going to have a tough time tearing that in half.]]
*'''Battle Jazz vs. Ice Megatron''' (Legends "Allspark Battles" two-pack, 2008)

:Once again Legends class Jazz is redecoed, this time in a battle-damaged deco based upon his appearance during the battle in Mission City. Amusingly, like the Deluxe class Final Battle Jazz toy, the "battle damage" can only be seen in robot mode. He comes packed with a redecoed Legends class Megatron toy colored with blue accents.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2008/Autobot/LegendsBattleJazz/jazz.htm More information on Battle Jazz at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

====Deluxe Class toys====
[[Image:Jazzmovietoydeluxe.jpg|right|300px|thumb|"Just wait. They'll do me in G1 colors soon..."]]
*'''Autobot Jazz''' (Deluxe Class, 2007)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''MA-04'''
**''Accessories'' Telescoping "sword" (rifle)

:Jazz transforms into a silver [[wikipedia:Pontiac_Solstice|Pontiac Solstice]] Custom Hardtop. Included is a blaster weapon that elongates into a sniper rifle, which may also be clipped directly onto his rear spoiler when in vehicle mode. In robot mode, the section featuring this same rear spoiler may be kept folded onto his back or worn on either shoulder as a shield. An interesting undocumented feature is a hinge joint located on the bottom of the rifle can attach to the ''shield's'' hinge joint, creating three choice weapon configurations: ''(a)'' a mounted long range sniper rifle, ''(b)'' an ambidextrous shoulder-mounted cannon, or ''(c)'' a short range blaster with built-in shield somewhat akin to what has been seen in Jazz's concept art and in the movie itself.

:As with most of the mainline toys, he features a [[Automorph|Automorphing]] gimmick that is activated by pushing the car roof down onto his back and locking it into place. This raises his head and slides his chest panels into proper position for the robot mode. This feature, like the weaponry mentioned above, is not documented at all, so one must be careful to not press the chest ''and'' the back at the same time.

:This toy was later redecoed into ''[[Revenge of the Fallen (toyline)|Revenge of the Fallen]]'' [[Smokescreen (Movie)|Smokescreen]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2007/Autobot/AutobotJazz/jazz.htm More information on Deluxe Jazz at TFU.info]''

{{-}}

*'''Deluxe three-pack''' (Costco exclusive multi-pack, 2007)
**''Accessories'' Telescoping "sword" (rifle)

:This Costco exclusive three-pack contains an unchanged Deluxe Class Autobot Jazz together with equally unchanged Deluxe Class [[Bonecrusher (Movie)|Bonecrusher]] and [[Brawl (Movie)|Decepticon Brawl]] toys. It also comes with a nifty poster depicting all three toys in a standoff scene.

{{-}}

*'''Deluxe three-pack''' (multi-pack, UK 2007)
**''Accessories'' Telescoping "sword" (rifle)

:This three-pack, which was available at general retail in the United Kingdom, contains an unchanged Deluxe Class Autobot Jazz together with equally unchanged Deluxe Class [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Protoform Optimus Prime]] and [[Brawl (Movie)|Decepticon Brawl]] toys.

{{-}}

[[Image:Movie G1Jazz toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|"See? Nineteen-Eighty-Four!"]]
*'''Autobot Jazz''' (Target Exclusive Deluxe, 2007)
**''Accessories'' Telescoping "sword" (rifle)

:An extensive [[redeco]] of Deluxe class Jazz, this Target-[[exclusive]] is heavily based on ''[[Generation 1]]'' [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz's]] Martini Racing scheme. He's lacking in Martini sponsorship for all the obvious reasons, replacing them with his own name. Disco Jazz doesn't really need to advertise, but he does.

:This figure also features a minor retool of the joint in the forearm. On the initial, mass retail release of Deluxe Jazz, the black hinge-joint was able to slide over slightly as part of the original design. The new version features a shorter joint, which makes it a lot less floppy in robot mode. [[Cyberfly|Cyberflies]] sold separately.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2007/Autobot/TargetJazz/jazz.htm More information on Target "G1" Jazz at TFU.info]''

{{-}}

[[Image:Movie FinalBattleJazz toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|No Cool colors in movie #2? Aww.]]
*'''Final Battle Jazz''' (Deluxe Class, 2007)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''MA-14'''
**''Accessories:'' "Crescent Cannon", energy-blast missile

:An extensive retool of Jazz, modifying his head and most of his legs to give them a broken, battle-scarred appearance. Amusingly, because Hasbro chose to keep his vehicle mode pristine, the rest of his body is undamaged. All the damaged parts have a black and blue deco, representing glowing circuitry and exposed conduits.

:Jazz comes with a brand new spring-loaded weapon (called a ''Crescent Cannon'' on the packaging), partially modeled after the actual weapon Jazz appears with in the film. It can fire a transparent blue projectile and, not unlike his original featured weapon, can be mounted in different configurations: ''(a)'' Mounted on his ''right'' arm with the Crescent Cannon missile launcher (with the crescent up) facing forward a la the film, or ''(b)'' mounted on his ''left'' arm with the flip-out rifle barrel pointed forwards (with the crescent down). The cannon can actually be rotated on the connecting peg, allowing the gun to be mounted in either configuration on either arm.

:Unusual for a regular Deluxe class figure, this version of Jazz is packaged on his card in robot mode, no doubt to highlight the changes to the figure that would not be visible in the vehicle mode.

:In addition to the retooled forearm joint also found on the Target exclusive "G1 color" Jazz, a running change variant of Final Battle Jazz adds another peg to the Crescent Cannon, thus allowing Jazz to use the weapon in all the different configurations on either arm.<ref>[http://www.allspark.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=40291 Original Allspark thread about the running change mold variant for Final Battle Jazz's Crescent Cannon]</ref>

:In spite of the claim that this is a "final battle" version of Jazz, his torso does not separate easily from his legs.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2007/Autobot/FinalBattleJazz/jazz.htm More information on Final Battle Jazz at TFU.info]''

{{-}}

[[Image:Movie2007 Allspark Jazz.jpg|right|300px|thumb|I feel so pretty with this makeup.]]
*'''All Spark-Enhanced Autobot Jazz''' (Target Exclusive Deluxe, 2007)
**''Accessories'' Telescoping "sword" (rifle)

:This Target exclusive features the Deluxe Class Jazz in unique cylindrical packaging, with the only difference from his standard release being that key robot mode parts are highlighted by the slavish 'All Spark Blue' color for no other reason than [[to sell toys]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2007/Autobot/AllsparkJazz/jazz.htm More information on All Spark Jazz at TFU,info]''

{{-}}

[[Image:PremiumJazzToy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Almost movie-accurate. Hasbro forgot they made the proper gun.]]
*'''Autobot Jazz''' (Deluxe Class "Premium Series", 2008)
**''Accessories'' Telescoping "sword" (rifle)

:This more movie-accurate version of Jazz sports a shinier coat of silver paint, along with added paint application detail to his robot mode parts. As it is a straight redeco, despite his coloration being far closer to the movie model, his weapon is still the old preliminary-art "sword" rather than the [[#FinalBattle|"Final Battle" version's]] much more screen-accurate shield/cannon.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2008/Autobot/PremiumJazz/jazz.htm More information on Premium Jazz at TFU.info]''

{{-}}

*'''Battle Over Mission City (Two-Pack)''' ("Screen Battles" Deluxe, 2008)
**''Accessories'' Telescoping "sword" (rifle)

:A Target exclusive two-pack that pits an unchanged Deluxe Class Final Battle Jazz with a beige, brown, and on-fire orange version of Voyager Class [[Megatron (Movie)|Megatron]] in reference to their battle on the top of a skyscraper in the film that was, in fact, Jazz's final battle.

====Fast Action Battlers====
[[Image:Movie FAB Jazz.jpg|right|300px|thumb|The kids love me.]]
*'''Ion Blast Autobot Jazz''' (Fast Action Battler, 2007)
**''Accessories'': Energy-blast missile

:Though larger than the standard [[#Deluxe_Class_toys|Deluxe class Jazz]], [[Fast Action Battlers]] "Ion Blast" Jazz is a simplified toy for the younger set with comparatively few parts and detailing. In vehicle mode he's kind of a squat and cutified Pontiac Solstice. His articulation is limited to his shoulders, hips and knees, and has a spring-loaded missile launcher in place of his left hand.

:This toy was later redecoed into [[Smokescreen (Movie)|Sonic Shock Smokescreen]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2007/Autobot/FABJazz/jazz.htm More information on Ion Blast Jazz at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

====Cyber Slammers====
[[Image:Movie Jazz CyberSlammer.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Silver scratches too easy, ask Jazz.]]
*'''Autobot Jazz''' (Cyber Slammers, 2007)

:[[Cyber Slammers]] Jazz is an amazingly cute Pontiac Solstice that transforms into an amazingly cute Autobot hipster. "Slam" his robot mode down into car mode and he rolls along, slowly transforming back up into robot mode. Like most Cyber Slammers, Jazz manages to cram most of his vehicle mode's major details into a compact, super-deformed version of that mode.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2007/Autobot/CySlamJazz/jazz.htm More information on Cyber Slammers Jazz at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

====Robot Replicas====
[[Image:Movie RobotReplicas Jazz.jpg|right|200px|thumb|My hand picks up XM.]]
*'''Autobot Jazz''' (Robot Replica, 2007)
**''Accessories:'' "Crescent cannon" rifle/shield, alternate left & right forearms

:As part of the [[Robot Replicas]] line, this version of Jazz is a non-transforming action figure that utilizes [[Revoltech]]-style jointing. The sculpt hews much closer to the movie CGI model than is possible with the full transforming toys, plus the universal jointing of the line allows for his forearm to be replaced with the included Crescent Cannon (which is also called that on the toy's packaging), or parts from other Robot Replica figures. Jazz's shoulders are actually mounted on the wrong sides of the toy as compared to the [[Transformers (2007)|Movie's]] CG design, but can easily swapped due to the toy's body construction.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2007/Autobot/RRJazz/jazz.htm More information on Robot Replicas Jazz at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

====Titanium Series====
[[Image:Movie TitaniumRM Jazz.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"Are you looking at me?"]]
*'''Autobot Jazz''' (3" Robot Masters, 2007)
*''Accessories'' Movie-style Autobot sigil display stand

:''[[Titanium Series]]'' Jazz is a die-cast metal and plastic figurine, with an accurate sculpt based on the slender CG model owing to the fact he doesn't need to transform. Being a figurine, he only has articulation in his shoulders, neck and waist. Jazz is sculpted with a small handgun that was only featured in concept art early in film development that still showed Arcee as part of the main cast. Jazz comes with a Movie-style Autobot symbol display stand, as is expected.

:This mold was also used to make the [[Toys"R"Us]]-exclusive ''[[Revenge of the Fallen (franchise)|Revenge of the Fallen]]'' Titanium Series [[Dead End (ROTF)|Dead End]].

{{-}}

===''Transformers (2010)''===
====Human Alliance====
[[Image:TF2010 HumanAlliance Jazz&Lennox.jpg|thumb|right|300px|How in the world do my skinny bird legs support my giant, clunky torso?]]
*'''Autobot Jazz with Captain Lennox''' (2010)
:Jazz's shielded blaster becomes a motorcycle for [[William Lennox|Captain Lennox]].
{{comingsoontoy}}
{{-}}

==Merchandise==
===Transformers (2007)===
====Unleashed====
[[Image:Movie UnleashedTurnarounds RatchetJazz.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Ratchet, unable to re-attach Jazz's lower torso, fitted Jazz with one of those things the Quintesson Judges float with, and made it flamin'!]]
*'''Autobot Ratchet and Autobot Jazz''' (2008)

:The Ratchet and Jazz turnaround is a 3D sculpture of the two characters, both in robot mode, emerging from rubble and explosions, with a movie-accurate sculpt (compared to the various transforming toys). The "turnaround" aspect of these sculptures simply means one can turn the piece around to display a raised-relief of the movie-style Autobot sigil instead.

:This product's release was canceled for the US market, but was released in Australia and in Asia.

{{-}}

====Transformers Movie Danglers====
[[Image:Movie Jazz Dangler.jpg|right|159px|thumb|]]
*'''Autobot Jazz''' (2007)

:Released by [[Tomy Yujin]] in November 2007<ref name="TomyYujin">[http://www.gachausa.com/products/transformers.asp Tomy Yujin ''Transformers'' page]</ref> as part of the [[Danglers Collection]], this toy is a weird plastic [[super-deformed]] version of Jazz that pops out his vehicle mode when you squeeze him, kinda like he's either giving birth to it or...er, excreting it. Classy. This little figurine has a little strap on it so that it can be put on cell phones or portable gaming devices.

{{-}}

====Transformers Movie Screen Cleaners====
[[Image:Movie Jazz Screencleaner.jpg|right|150px|thumb|]]
*'''Autobot Jazz''' (2008)

:Released by Tomy Yujin on January 2008<ref name="TomyYujin"/>, this dangler is a faction logo-shaped screen cleaner for your cell phone, with a stock image of Jazz printed on the other side.

{{-}}

===Revenge of the Fallen===
====RPMs - Robot Powered Machines====
=====Battle Series=====
[[Image:ROTF-toy_RPM_Jazz_vs_Brawl.jpg|thumb|right|300px|]]
*'''Autobot Jazz Vs. Decepticon Brawl''' (2009)
**''Number:'' '''02 of 08'''

:[[Robot Powered Machines]] Jazz is a small non-transforming Pontiac Solstice Custom Hardtop with his robot mode sculpted on the car's underside. He was only available in a two-pack with [[Brawl (Movie)|Brawl]].

{{-}}

===Robot Heroes===
[[Image:Movie Robotheroes JazzVsFrenzy.jpg|right|150px|thumb|"His only real complaint is that he's always stuck fighting the small ones."]]
*'''Autobot Jazz vs. Decepticon Frenzy''' (2007)

: This pack of cutely sculpted figurines features an oddly brown-coloured Frenzy.
{{-}}

[[Image:Rhjazzbrawl.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Yeah, um, that sure is Jazz.]]
*'''Protoform Jazz vs. Decepticon Brawl''' (2007)

:This ''Robot Heroes'' pack features a cutely murderous figurine of Brawl, and Jazz in his "[[Protoform]]" mode. Considering the generic nature of the protoforms, Protoform Jazz can easily represent any of his other three companions who crash landed to Earth. Like many Robot Heroes, he's jointed at the shoulders and neck.
{{-}}

[[Image:Robotheroesfinalbattle.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Hi, then die.]]
*'''The Final Battle''' (2008)

: Packaged with Autobot Ratchet, Megatron, Blackout, and Optimus Prime, "Battle Damage" Jazz is a slightly redecoed version of the first two pack version. His exclusive deco involves a black paint wash and black-lined cracks over a shiny silver painted finish. The Final Battle 5-pack was sold exclusively in Walmart stores.
{{-}}

[[Image:Robotheroesjazzmegatron.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Okay, this is getting ridiculous.]]
*'''Battle Jazz vs Megatron''' (2008)

:Once again the first Jazz sculpt is given a battle damage deco. This time black cracks and starbursts are painted over dull unpainted silver plastic.
{{-}}

==Trivia==
[[Image:Movie Jazz armswordconcept.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Cool melee weapon in the game, totally non-existent in the movie.]]
* The packaging text for the Deluxe Jazz figure refers to his weapon as a "telescoping sword". As ridiculous as this sounds, considering this weapon ''looks'' like a firearm and can attach to his spoiler in vehicle mode as such, this very idea actually comes from concept drawings of a sword weapon featured on the same concept art that also had Jazz showcasing the short range blaster/shield thingy both featured in the film and included with his Final Battle retool. So, ''really''...not that ridiculous anymore.

* According to a press kit sent out in conjunction with the movie, Jazz has a "near-perfect recordable memory that makes him invaluable as a documenter of battles" and is "equipped with a fusion engine that allows him to reach sub-light speeds in vehicle mode." [http://numberonestars.com/transformers/production/autobots.htm] One, uh, would ''hope'' a Pontiac Solstice would be travelling at ''sub''-light speeds...

* During the final battle in [[Mission City]], there's a long period during which Jazz is not doing ''anything''. He's standing around in vehicle mode when Ironhide notices that the F-22 flying above the city is Starscream, stays in vehicle mode when Ironhide and Bumblebee pick up a Furby delivery truck for cover, ''still'' remains in vehicle mode when Starscream blasts them, and after Sam discovers that Bumblebee has lost his legs, all Jazz does is pull back for a few feet to give Bumblebee space to crawl. In the end, Jazz doesn't really join the battle ''at all'' until Brawl shows up.

* In an earlier draft of the movie script, [[Megatron (Movie)|Megatron]] was supposed to "consume" the sparks of Autobots he killed. A remainder of this can be found in the novelization and the IDW comic adaptation of the movie, which both explicitly state that Megatron tears out Jazz's spark. In the movie itself, however, Megatron simply appears to kill Jazz by ripping him apart at the waist, even though [[Frenzy (Movie)|Frenzy]] was previously able to survive as a detached head. However, a recent rejiggering of Frenzy's biology makes this a moot point.

*Jazz's manner of speech is a late development. In the early script draft his first line in the film is simply saying "Greetings" to the humans.

* Though it is very brief, Jazz does indeed get a face close-up during the Mission City battle when he is shot by Megatron and falls over in pain, before he is ripped in half.

* In an appeal to his better nature in [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)|Titan]], Optimus said part of him was "still Autobot Jazz", a reference to the name of the Jazz toys.

* Jazz was included in the downloadable content for the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3 versions of the Revenge of the Fallen game. Apparently over-compensating for not being in the movie, Jazz is pretty much the most dangerous robot ever. If you play against him, just run.

* In both of his console game appearances for the [[Transformers The Game (console)|first movie game]] and [[Revenge of the Fallen (Xbox 360/PS3/PC)|the second]] Jazz was not seen wearing his iconic visor.

==Footnotes==
<references/>

==External links==
*[http://www.tfu.info/2007/Autobot/AutobotJazz/jazz.htm Jazz at TFU.info]

[[Category:3D Battle-Cards]]
[[Category:Autobots]]
[[Category:Movie characters]]
[[Category:Revenge of the Fallen characters]]
[[Category:Robot Heroes]]
[[Category:Titanium Series]]
[[Category:Transformers 2010 toyline characters]]

Introdump

2010-06-18T23:26:43Z

76.180.61.89:

[[Image:Decepticonpretenders-behold.jpg|right|300px|thumb|The buying public will never suspect their TRUE NATURES as commercial products until it is TOO LATE!]]
An '''introdump''' (also known as name-dropping, name-checking, forced introduction, or "really awkward self-exposition") is a scene in which new characters are introduced, and the dialog goes out of its way to give each character's name. It is particularly prevalent in certain portions of ''Transformers'' fiction.

Sometimes the characters give their ''own'' names (referring to themselves in the third person). On other occasions, the characters will work each other's names into the dialog. The classic [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|G1 Marvel Comic]] was particularly guilty of this, not least because they introduced on the order of 200 characters across only 84 issues (counting ''[[Headmasters (comic)|Headmasters]]''). In '''that comic''', it was '''usually signified''' by the '''writing''' of '''each new character's name''' in '''bold typeface'''.

Because most ''Transformers'' fiction exists [[to sell toys]], it seems likely that [[Hasbro]] required the writers of the comic to make sure every new character was explicitly named, so the readers could then go out and ask the toy store employee for 'em by name.

Though the G1 comics were particularly notorious for it, introdumps pop up across the whole spectrum of ''Transformers'' fiction. In egregious examples, the characters also describe their "selling points" (weapons, etc.)

Here are four examples, from most graceful to least:

==Transformers Animated==
* Here, the [[Decepticon|Decepticons]] bicker, giving their names and at least one important fact per character:

: '''Lugnut''': Megatron is wise! Megatron is bold! Megatron will return the Decepticons to Cybertron and... 
: '''Blackarachnia''': ...and wipe our homeland clean of the stench of Autobot tyranny, blah-dee blah blah blah! Did you memorize that speech, Lugnut? Or is it just hardwired into that thick, one-track processor of yours? 
: '''Blitzwing''': As usual, Blackarachnia, your demeanor is as unpleasant as that accursed organic mode of yours. 
: '''Blackarachnia''': Blow it out your actuator, three-face. 
: '''Blitzwing''': De name is Blitzving, insect!

==Beast Wars==
{{listen
|Introdump bwep1 thepain.ogg
|Painful Introductions
|The Maximals introduce themselves.
|350 KB
}}
* In the sound clip at right, from the first episode of [[Beast Wars (cartoon)|Beast Wars]], the writers at least have the justification that the characters are adopting new names at that moment.
* Why did... why did they ''need'' new names?

{{-}}
==Marvel Comics G1==
[[Image:MarvelUS22 Stunticons.jpg|right|400px|thumb|Mouseketeer roll call!]]
* At right, the [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]] introduce themselves in "[[Heavy Traffic!]]". Bonus points for [[Drag Strip]], who goes the extra mile by indicating his personality, too.

{{-}}
[[Image:Introdump decepticons marvelus01.jpg|right|400px|thumb|Ten characters, nine color schemes, and only six molds.]]
* A ''particularly'' heavy example, from [[The Transformers (issue)|the first issue of the US comic]]. (Note [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]'s ironic comment of "Can the speeches.")

{{-}}
==IDW Comics==
By contrast, the IDW comics seem to go out of their way to avoid introdumps, meaning that sometimes a character with an all-new design will go unnamed for several issues, forcing readers to guess who they are. And the occasional new character is tossed in (and left unnamed) just to make things even more of a challenge. (For instance, [[Drift (G1)|Drift]], who isn't even named in his first appearance except on the retailer incentive cover.)
* The exception to the rule is IDW's ''[[Transformers: The Animated Movie|Animated Movie Adaptation]]'', in which writer [[Bob Budiansky]] gives characters whose toys had been available 20 years earlier (!) ''more'' blatant introdumps than in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' itself. Old habits, probably.
{{-}}

==External links==
* [http://theswordreview.com/item.php?sub_id=1289 A parallel coining of "introdump", in the context of prose SF.]
* [[wikipedia:Infodump#The_Plot_Dump|"Infodump", a broader term, at the Wikipedia.]];

[[Category:Media]]

Introdump

2010-06-18T23:25:30Z

76.180.61.89:

[[Image:Decepticonpretenders-behold.jpg|right|300px|thumb|The buying public will never suspect their TRUE NATURES as commercial products until it is TOO LATE!]]
An '''introdump''' (also known as name-dropping, name-checking, forced introduction, or "really awkward self-exposition") is a scene in which new characters are introduced, and the dialogue goes out of its way to give each character's name. It is particularly prevalent in certain portions of ''Transformers'' fiction.

Sometimes the characters give their ''own'' names (referring to themselves in the third person). On other occasions, the characters will work each other's names into the dialog. The classic [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|G1 Marvel Comic]] was particularly guilty of this, not least because they introduced on the order of 200 characters across only 84 issues (counting ''[[Headmasters (comic)|Headmasters]]''). In '''that comic''', it was '''usually signified''' by the '''writing''' of '''each new character's name''' in '''bold typeface'''.

Because most ''Transformers'' fiction exists [[to sell toys]], it seems likely that [[Hasbro]] required the writers of the comic to make sure every new character was explicitly named, so the readers could then go out and ask the toy store employee for 'em by name.

Though the G1 comics were particularly notorious for it, introdumps pop up across the whole spectrum of ''Transformers'' fiction. In egregious examples, the characters also describe their "selling points" (weapons, etc.)

Here are four examples, from most graceful to least:

==Transformers Animated==
* Here, the [[Decepticon|Decepticons]] bicker, giving their names and at least one important fact per character:

: '''Lugnut''': Megatron is wise! Megatron is bold! Megatron will return the Decepticons to Cybertron and... 
: '''Blackarachnia''': ...and wipe our homeland clean of the stench of Autobot tyranny, blah-dee blah blah blah! Did you memorize that speech, Lugnut? Or is it just hardwired into that thick, one-track processor of yours? 
: '''Blitzwing''': As usual, Blackarachnia, your demeanor is as unpleasant as that accursed organic mode of yours. 
: '''Blackarachnia''': Blow it out your actuator, three-face. 
: '''Blitzwing''': De name is Blitzving, insect!

==Beast Wars==
{{listen
|Introdump bwep1 thepain.ogg
|Painful Introductions
|The Maximals introduce themselves.
|350 KB
}}
* In the sound clip at right, from the first episode of [[Beast Wars (cartoon)|Beast Wars]], the writers at least have the justification that the characters are adopting new names at that moment.
* Why did... why did they ''need'' new names?

{{-}}
==Marvel Comics G1==
[[Image:MarvelUS22 Stunticons.jpg|right|400px|thumb|Mouseketeer roll call!]]
* At right, the [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]] introduce themselves in "[[Heavy Traffic!]]". Bonus points for [[Drag Strip]], who goes the extra mile by indicating his personality, too.

{{-}}
[[Image:Introdump decepticons marvelus01.jpg|right|400px|thumb|Ten characters, nine color schemes, and only six molds.]]
* A ''particularly'' heavy example, from [[The Transformers (issue)|the first issue of the US comic]]. (Note [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]'s ironic comment of "Can the speeches.")

{{-}}
==IDW Comics==
By contrast, the IDW comics seem to go out of their way to avoid introdumps, meaning that sometimes a character with an all-new design will go unnamed for several issues, forcing readers to guess who they are. And the occasional new character is tossed in (and left unnamed) just to make things even more of a challenge. (For instance, [[Drift (G1)|Drift]], who isn't even named in his first appearance except on the retailer incentive cover.)
* The exception to the rule is IDW's ''[[Transformers: The Animated Movie|Animated Movie Adaptation]]'', in which writer [[Bob Budiansky]] gives characters whose toys had been available 20 years earlier (!) ''more'' blatant introdumps than in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' itself. Old habits, probably.
{{-}}

==External links==
* [http://theswordreview.com/item.php?sub_id=1289 A parallel coining of "introdump", in the context of prose SF.]
* [[wikipedia:Infodump#The_Plot_Dump|"Infodump", a broader term, at the Wikipedia.]];

[[Category:Media]]

Aerialbot (G1)

2010-06-18T23:22:58Z

76.180.61.89: /* Dreamwave Transformers/G.I. Joe comics */

{{factions|autobot|autobotg2}}
{{disambig3|Aerialbot}}
{{picsneeded|Comic appearances}}

:''The Aerialbots are an [[Autobot]] [[subgroup]] from the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:Aerialbots2.jpg|right|400px|thumb|Cause when you're a Jet, you're a Jet all the waaay...]]
The '''Aerialbots''' are the first Autobot [[Combiner|combiner/gestalt/special team]]. They transform into Earth-style aircraft and combine to form [[Superion (G1)|Superion]].

*[[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] — ''Concorde SST (Super Sonic Transport)'' — [[Wikipedia:acrophobia|acrophobic]] leader, and den mother
*[[Air Raid (G1)| Air Raid]] — ''Boeing F-15C Eagle'' — impulsive and fearless close-quarters fighter
*[[Fireflight (G1)| Fireflight]] — ''McDonnell Douglas F-4B Phantom II'' — daydreamer, dangerously absent-minded flyer
*[[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] — ''General Dynamics F-16C Fighting Falcon'' — amateur strategist, military history aficionado
*[[Slingshot]] — ''McDonnell Douglas AV-8B Harrier II'' — insecure loud-mouthed jerk, [[Wikipedia:VTOL|VTOL]] capabilities

:''French-Canadian name'': '''Aérobot'''
:''Japanese name:'' '''Airbot'''
:''Malay dub name:'' '''Air Corps Regiment'''
:''Polish name'': '''Aerobot'''

==Fiction==
===Cartoon continuity===
====Generation 1 cartoon====
[[Image:Aerialbots group.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Future Autobot jerks.]]
In order to fight the [[Autobot]]s more effectively on the ground, the [[Decepticon]]s built a [[Combiner|combiner team]] that could convert into cars. However, in order to give these [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]] life, [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] had to take them to [[Vector Sigma]], a megacomputer deep within [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. Vector Sigma could only be activated with a Circuit Key, which was in the hands of the ancient Autobot [[Alpha Trion (G1)|Alpha Trion]]. Megatron stole the Key and succeeded in giving life to the new team. A group of Autobots had been following Megatron, and, to counter the Stunticons, they rebuilt some old, abandoned shuttles into the Aerialbots. However, without the Key, they couldn't activate Vector Sigma. Alpha Trion then revealed that, as one of the first Transformers created, he had the ability to interface his power supply with the megacomputer. Against [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime's]] protests, he merged with Vector Sigma, activating it, and his lifeless body fell to the ground. Prime asked Vector Sigma to "Let [the Aerialbots] think for themselves, to grow in knowledge and wisdom, and let them always value freedom and life wherever they find it." After the Aerialbots were programmed, Alpha Trion's voice came from the megacomputer; his mind had merged with Vector Sigma.

[[Image:Aerialbots key2.jpg|left|200px|thumb|It's like a very boring rave.]]
Once on [[Earth]], the Aerialbots fought a brief battle with the Stunticons that ended when Megatron sent a message to his car warriors to return to base. Thinking that the Stunticons had retreated, the Aerialbots' egos soared; all, that is, except [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]]'s. During the fight, he had discovered his fear of heights, which he guessed came from the fact that he was built from a low-altitude cargo shuttle. Prime helped him deal with the phobia by naming him Aerialbot Leader, thus giving him duties that would keep his mind off of his fear. However, he found his position a hard one to fill. The other Aerialbots, especially [[Slingshot]], saw themselves as better than anyone else. They couldn't understand why the Autobots wasted their time protecting the foolish and inferior humans, and they eventually left the Autobots. Silverbolt, who didn't agree, merely promised Prime he would bring them back, then left with them. After a while, Silverbolt finally convinced them that they owed the Autobots their lives, and they decided to stay with the Autobot army.

[[Image:G1Silverbolt Key1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"Goodbye, cruel world!"]]
Meanwhile, Megatron had discovered that the Key could "de-energize" Earthen matter, turning it to metal. Hoping to create a new Cybertron, he began sweeping through forests near the [[Seattle-Tacoma area]], turning everything from trees to mountains into metal. The Autobots tried to stop him, but the Stunticons were unstoppable... that is, until the Aerialbots arrived. The two teams formed their gestalt modes, and, as the battle entered the outskirts of a city, [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] arrived and turned the tide. Megatron retreated, but he still had the Key. Silverbolt, braving his phobia, chased him down and destroyed it. {{storylink|The Key to Vector Sigma, Part 2}}

A few weeks later, strange energy readings were detected on Cybertron. A team of Autobots and the Aerialbots left to investigate. The Aerialbots, enamored with Cybertron, were on a patrol when they were attacked by three Decepticon jets. Curious, Slingshot surrendered and began to ask the Decepticons questions, like why Prime thought they were evil. All the other Aerialbots except Silverbolt did the same, and Silverbolt followed at a distance. [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]], feigning friendship, led the naive team into the [[Kronosphere]], a time machine that had been generating the unusual energy readings. As Silverbolt arrived, trying to convince his teammates that they were in a trap, Megatron activated the Kronosphere, intending to send them back to before the beginning of time. Outside of the timestream, they would be trapped in eternal nothingness. However, the other Autobots arrived and destroyed the machine before it could finish its work. The Aerialbots had been sent only nine million years into the past, during the [[Golden Age|Golden Age of Cybertron]] before the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]]s had broken out.

In the past, the Aerialbots met a young Transformer named [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Orion Pax]], who was working at an energy shipment facility. As they got to know each other, Orion soon told them about his admiration of a "new kind" of Transformer that had the ability to fly in robot mode. He was understandably awestruck when the leader of those robots, Megatron, arrived at his workplace under the guise of friendship. After Orion gave him a brief tour, Megatron ordered his disguised troops to attack the facility and take the energon. During the assault, Orion, his girlfriend [[Elita One|Ariel]], and his friend [[Dion]] were severely injured. The Aerialbots arrived at the scene just as Megatron was leaving. They took Orion to the young Alpha Trion, who was devising ways to fight the Decepticons. He rebuilt Orion into the first of a new breed that would be capable of standing against Megatron. He also gave him a new name: Optimus Prime. Alpha then rebuilt Ariel into Elita One, but it is unknown whether Dion was given similar treatment.

Prime inflicted severe damage on the Decepticon forces, but Megatron was still powerful. His raiders were starting to loot a fuel transfer center that would supply him with enough [[Energon (fuel)|energon]] to win the war just as it was beginning. The Aerialbots realized this, and they set up explosives to destroy the energon. However, while they were inside, the Decepticons surrounded the facility, preventing their escape. Now fully aware of Megatron's evil, they set off the charges despite the danger to themselves. Just as the energon detonated, they found themselves being transported back to the present. When they arrived, they saw that the Autobots had repaired the Kronosphere but were fighting the Decepticons and a reanimated [[Guardian robot]]. The Aerialbots combined into Superion and destroyed the Guardian, and Megatron retreated. As the Decepticons flew away, Slingshot swore, "You'll never get away from us, Megatron! We won't stop fighting till you're finished!" {{storylink|War Dawn}}

[[Image:Aerial assault4.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Well, they did try to warn us about tensions in the Middle East.]]
Since that time, the Aerialbots have been invaluable to the Earth-bound (and largely flightless) Autobots. When Megatron obtained the ultra-powerful [[Lightning Bug]] from the ruins of an ancient Autobot colony, it was Superion who eventually destroyed the weapon (after having defeated [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]]). {{storylink|Cosmic Rust}} Later, Slingshot and Skydive went undercover at a Middle Eastern airbase to investigate a rash of jet thefts. Late one night, men in laundry trucks began disassembling them and several other jets, carting their components to a car repair shop. There, the parts were jury-rigged into bizarre-looking cars and driven across the border to Megatron's secret base. The planes were then reassembled and used by the Decepticons as a remote-controlled drone armada. With the help of [[Hassan]], a young human who was also investigating the smugglers, Slingshot and Skydive were rebuilt without being detected. The other Aerialbots soon arrived and began battling the drones, the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]], and Megatron's [[Giant Purple Griffin|sphinx-like airborne fortress]]. As Superion, they beat the Combaticons' gestalt mode [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] and destroyed the fortress by blowing up an oil well. After the Decepticons retreated, the Autobots discovered that [[Ali (Sunbow)|Ali]], the head of the smuggling operation, had become the ruler of his country by allying himself with Megatron and overthrowing a certain Prince Jumal. Megatron was going to use Ali's drone jets to take over the Middle Eastern oil fields, thus supplying himself with enough energy to conquer the world... and giving Ali a fair share of domination, of course. It was also revealed that the Aerialbots' friend Hassan was actually the deposed Prince Jumal in disguise. {{storylink|Aerial Assault}}

For many years, the Aerialbots remained a valuable asset to the Autobot cause. When [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]] and several other Autobots were trapped on [[Quintessa]], the Aerialbots arrived in a rescue craft and saved them, just as the planet self-destructed. However, the force of the explosion destroyed their ship, and they hurtled helplessly through space until colliding with [[Goo|Goo#8739-B]]. There, they fought a giant trash-collecting machine and (later) Decepticon warriors before escaping with the help of the [[Junkion (species)|Junkion]] [[Wreck-Gar (G1)|Wreck-Gar]]. {{storylink|Five Faces of Darkness, Part 3}}

[[Image:Aerial forever 2.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"Hey! Didn't you use to have a longer moustache?"]]
Some time later, the Aerialbots were dispatched as part of a reinforcement team to help a group of Autobots who had discovered a [[Quintesson]] base on a large asteroid near Cybertron. The Aerialbots arrived and drove the Quints away, finding [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]] heavily damaged and half-conscious. Before blacking out, Perceptor told them that the team had discovered a Quint time machine. Under attack with virtually no hope of escape, the other team members had jumped through the [[Time Window]] just moments before their would-be rescuers arrived. Now, the reinforcement team (led by Rodimus Prime) could do nothing but keep the time machine activated and hope that their comrades would come back through. The Autobots also made another discovery at the Quint base: the Quints had used the time machine to extract from the distant past an Autobot named A3. As Rodimus and A3 began to converse, the Quintessons returned in force, and a battle ensued. During the battle, chronal energies emanating from the time machine were playing havoc with the nature of space-time. Events were occurring that defied normal linear time, such as endlessly repeating loops and sudden reversals of the timestream. Superion was holding A3, protecting him from the Quint attacks, when suddenly the ancient robot became Alpha Trion. He told Superion, "You must live, that I may be born," then reverted back to A3. Then things really got bizarre when a second Superion appeared out of nowhere and began attacking the Quints. The two gestalts proved to be too much for the Quints, who retreated. After they left, the second Superion vanished. Later, the Quints sent the Autobots a holographic message explaining that the time distortions were the result of the activated time machine, and that it had to be destroyed before the space-time continuum was completely unraveled. A3 volunteered to go back through the window and find the missing Autobots, which he did. Upon their return to 2006, the window was destroyed, and everything appeared to return to normal. The time-traveling Autobots had participated in the first rebellion against the Quintessons 11 million years ago, and that battle was won when A3 returned through the window and used a secret weapon. {{storylink|Forever Is a Long Time Coming}}

Later, the Aerialbots returned to the Middle East, this time to fight in the African desert nation of [[Socialist Democratic Federated Republic of Carbombya|Carbombya]]. The conniving Decepticon [[Octane]] had convinced [[Abdul Fakkadi (G1)|Abdul Fakkadi]], the ruler of the country, to allow the heavily-damaged [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]] to recuperate there, using the super-rich Carbombyan oil as a fuel source. Octane sought to use the power of the oil and the strength of Trypticon to overthrow [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] and become leader of the Decepticons. Meanwhile, in order to justify the giant Decepticon's oil consumption, Octane ordered Trypticon to steal famous monuments (including Fort Knox and all of its gold) and place them in Carbombya. The money gleaned from these tourist attractions would make up for the loss of natural resources. But the Autobots soon deduced Trypticon's location, and the Aerialbots were sent to attack. However, their timing was terrible—Galvatron and the main Decepticon army had just arrived in the country to investigate the situation, and the Aerialbots found themselves badly outclassed. They retreated, and Galvatron took over Carbombya, imprisoning Fakkadi. Later, the Aerialbots returned with reinforcements (including the behemoth [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]]). They won that battle, driving the Decepticons out of the nation and freeing Fakkadi. Ecstatically grateful for the Autobots' help, Fakkadi swore never to associate with the Decepticons again. On a side note, it is unknown whether there is any connection between Prince Jumal in 1985 and Carbombya in 2006. {{storylink|Thief in the Night}}

The Aerialbots later traveled to an Earth-like world inhabited by humanoids who could produce the [[Harmony]], a manipulation of sound that could be used as either a miraculous healing power or an incredibly destructive force. Naturally, Galvatron sought to possess the Harmony, and the Aerialbots were among the Autobots who tried to stop him. {{storylink|Carnage in C-Minor}}

Some time after that incident, the Aerialbots met up once again with Trypticon. Trypticon blasted Air Raid with his powerful fire-breath, but, while the Decepticon dinosaur was recharging, Silverbolt was able to fly into his mouth and inflict heavy damage that disabled him for a brief period of time. {{storylink|The Ultimate Weapon|The Ultimate Weapon}}

Their next assignment was to investigate the Junkions, who had inexplicably attacked the Autobot [[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]]. When they arrived at the junk planet, they found a Quintesson ship in orbit, so they merged into Superion and attacked. Superion inflicted damage on the ship, but he was also heavily injured. Unbeknownst to the Aerialbots, the Quintessons had been using subliminal messages to induce xenophobic hatred in the television-obsessed Junkions. However, Superion's attack had damaged the Quints' transmitter, and the subliminal message turned from "All other life forms are your enemies" to "To care is to share; to share is to care." The brainwashed Junkions blindly obliged, using their own omnidirectional broadcaster to share the original message of hatred with the rest of the galaxy. Every race with any sort of TV technology was affected, and massive interstellar war broke out. {{storylink|The Big Broadcast of 2006 (episode)|The Big Broadcast of 2006}}

The Autobots soon stopped the messages and thereby ended the wars, but the Aerialbots' next major appearance heralded another galactic conflict. They were part of an Autobot team sent to a human laboratory where the late Optimus Prime's body was supposedly stored. The body was there, but it was a trap set by a vengeful scientist to infect the Transformers with the [[Hate Plague]], highly contagious spores that cause maniacal hatred and violence. The Aerialbots were among the first to be infected, and in their subsequent rampage, they gravely injured several Autobots (including [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]]) and passed the disease to many more. The damaged Autobots were later repaired, and Bumblebee was completely rebuilt into a new form, Goldbug. With their help, the reanimated Optimus Prime was able to cure the Plague by emptying the Matrix. {{storylink|The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 1}}

The Aerialbots were later seen fighting the Decepticons, a battle during which the entire team was taken out by the Decepticon [[Sixshot]]. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 1}} Despite being robbed of their [[power pack]]s while unconscious, one of the Aerialbots was seen jumping with Bumblebee, indicating they survived. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 3}}

===Japanese cartoon continuity===
{{note|The events of "The Rebirth" do not occur in Japanese cartoon continuity.}}
=====Scramble City=====

The Aerialbots were dispatched from the [[Metroplex (G1)|Scramble City]] project by [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] to aid Optimus Prime in battle with the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]s and [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]. Their aerial firepower frankly overwhelmed the marauding Decepticons, and sent them home with their transistors between their struts. On his second attempt, Megatron sent the Stunticons, who were considerably more successful in engaging the Autobots. Damaged in jet modes, the Aerialbots chose instead to merge and form Superion. As Superion, they possessed scramble combining abilities, but so did the Stunticons when they formed Menasor. The Aerialbots were in the midst of reconfiguring their limb formation when Fireflight, being...well, a daydreaming idiot, mixed up whether he was supposed to be the right leg or the left. His indecision gave Menasor time to shoot him down, and [[Wildrider]] assumed the place of Superion's right leg instead, corrupting his programming. Abashed by his boner, Fireflight teamed up with Optimus Prime to assault Menasor, and retook his place as Superion's limb. {{storylink|Scramble City}}

=====''The Headmasters'' cartoon=====
The Aerialbots were stationed on Earth when Galvatron attacked Cybertron with his new [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] warriors. They were summoned to the [[Space Bridge]] with Ultra Magnus, and transported to Cybertron along with the Trainbots and several additional warriors. As Superion, they battled the Decepticon combiner [[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]]. [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] nearly shot them in the back, but Optimus Prime used a flying jump kick to spoil his aim, and the shot struck Abominus instead. {{storylink|Four Warriors Come out of the Sky}} Later, Superion, Defensor and [[Raiden]] were being overrun by four Decepticon combiners until the [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Battleship Maximus]] intervened, scattering the 'Cons like flies. As [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] began his mission on Earth to find the Matrix of Leadership, the Aerialbots transported back to that planet to keep the Decepticons from interfering. They confronted the Stunticons in the desert and started a fierce battle. Superion was unable to stop Menasor from reaching Hot Rod in the Arctic, but he did keep the Decepticons too busy to intervene on the mission too badly. {{storylink|The Mystery of Planet Master}}

After Blaster was rebuilt as Twincast, the Aerialbots and the [[Triple Changer]]s distracted the Decepticons long enough for [[Twincast]] to sneak inside Trypticon and gather data on the [[Madmachine]]. {{storylink|The Great Cassette Operation}} Sometime later, the Aerialbots were on a research vessel that passed near a [[Metamorpho|strange meteorite]]. The meteorite had been altered by Galvatron to produce gravity-warping waves whenever it detected metal, and so it send the Aerialbots and their ship twisting through space. Although the Decepticons tried to intervene, the Autobots eventually recovered Silverbolt and his injured men. {{storylink|Approach of the Demon Meteorite}}

Following a lengthy repair cycle, the Aerialbots were ready for action when Galvatron and the Decepticons laid siege to Cybertron one last time. Transporting to Cybertron from Earth, they raced into battle (on foot, for some reason). The Aerialbots got the drop on the Stunticons when they merged into Superion, smashing and scattering the 'Cons before they could form Menasor. {{storylink|Cybertron Is in Grave Danger, Part 1}} As the fighting continued, the Aerialbots battled Abominus as Superion and later separated to trade blaster fire with the Stunticons. The warring only came to an end once [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]'s bombs blew up [[Vector Sigma]] and annihilated the planet. {{storylink|Cybertron Is in Grave Danger, Part 2}}

Silverbolt was operating at Autobot City when a volcano erupted in [[Peru]]. He begged Ultra Magnus to send him team in, but Magnus couldn't spare the extra troops. {{storylink|The Dormant Volcano Mysteriously Erupts}} When a giant carnivorous plant attacked San Francisco, Ultra Magnus dispatched Silverbolt and the Aerialbots to combat it. Although they made frequent bombing runs on the organism, the Aerialbots were unable to stop it. Only the arrival of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] and his powerful giant [[Transtector]] brought an end to the creature's rampage. {{storylink|Head On!! Fortress Maximus}}

The Aerialbots were part of a strike team who traveled to the [[Moon (moon)|moon]] to attack the Decepticons during Scorponok's leadership rally. They immediately assembled into Superion after launching out of the robot train. The tide turned against the Autobots when Galvatron arrived and galvanized his troops to strike back. Superion was zapped hard, and fled with the other Autobots. {{storylink|Return of the Immortal Emperor}}

When one of Scorponok's Death Towers emerged in Washington D.C., the Aerialbots were dispatched to investigate it. In their combined form as Superion, the Aerialbots participated in the Autobots' final battle with Scorponok's Decepticons at the North Pole. Along with all the Autobots present, they lent their energies to the Headmasters' [[Head Formation]] to revitalize Fortress Maximus at the critical moment. {{storylink|The Final Showdown on Earth (Part 2)}}

===Marvel Comics continuity===
[[Image:Aerialbots marvel 21.jpg|right|180px|thumb|What, too good to make your own [[introdump|introdumps]]?]]
The Aerialbots were created to bolster the [[Earth]]-bound [[Autobot]]s' depleted forces, counter the [[Decepticon|Decepticons]]' aerial superiority, and utilize the [[combiner]] technology that [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] had stolen from the Decepticons. Their first mission came suddenly when a crisis arose at [[Hoover Dam]]. An employee armed with a super-powerful handgun had taken over the control room and ordered that the dam be shut down. [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] suspected [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s involvement, but the only Autobots who could reach the dam fast enough were the newly-constructed Aerialbots. Although [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] had completed their bodies, [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] was the only one whose personality had been fully programmed. Feeling he had no choice, Prime sent them anyway.

[[Image:Aerialbots disassemble marvel 21.jpg|left|180px|thumb|Don't get used to this [[scale]] for the Aerialbots.]]
Arriving at the dam, they found that it had, indeed, been shut down, and where water used to fall there now hovered a [[space bridge]]. Sitting on the bridge was a giant drilling machine that was slowly boring through the dam. From the machine, a huge pipe led back to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. The Decepticons' plan was apparent: The water that would normally flow over the dam would be piped to Cybertron, where technologically advanced turbines would generate huge amounts of power. (Cybertron is devoid of water.) As the Aerialbots began to assault the drill, they were intercepted by [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]], [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]], and [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]], who had just arrived from Cybertron. During the fight, Silverbolt briefly succumbed to his fear of heights, but he recovered by putting his team's safety before his own. The battle was soon joined by the [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]] (also new arrivals from Cybertron), but the Aerialbots still managed to win the fight. The drill, however, was impervious to individual attacks, so the Aerialbots combined into [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] and began to destroy it. Suddenly, the human who had started the whole mess (under [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]]'s mind control) appeared atop the dam and pointed Megatron's gun mode at the Autobot gestalt. As Megatron hurled threats, Superion reached over to crush him. The human, [[Ricky Vasquez]], began to think of his daughter, and Bombshell's control weakened. At the same time, Superion was having a mental crisis of his own: Silverbolt, the only fully programmed Aerialbot, was the only one who had any respect for human life, and he tried desperately to override the other Aerialbots and stop the gestalt from crushing Ricky. Realizing that he couldn't succeed, he forced his team to disassemble. Meanwhile, Ricky managed to fight the Decepticon mind control just enough to shoot the drill instead of the Aerialbots. The Decepticons left in defeat, and the Aerialbots returned to the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]]. {{storylink|Aerialbots over America!}}

[[Image:Aerialbots minds wiped marvel 22.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Punishment for doing poorly in a mission? ''Death''. Harsh, Optimus. Harsh.]]
However, the tiny Bombshell was able to sneak into the Ark with the Aerialbots, and he secretly injected a mind-controlling [[cerebro-shell]] into Optimus Prime. However, the shell malfunctioned, and the Insecticon could only read Prime's thoughts, not control them. Megatron still used this to his advantage, for when Prime used the [[Creation Matrix]] to give life to more robots, Megatron could secretly access its power and do the same. This occurred when Prime reprogrammed the Aerialbots. Because of their poor performance at Hoover Dam, Optimus had had the team's minds completely wiped and re-created. (It is unknown whether Silverbolt still had a fear of heights after being reprogrammed.) During the process of re-creation, Matrix power was channeled from the cerebro-shell to [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]], then to Megatron (via an artificial communications hook-up), and from him into the lifeless [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]]. This five-member Decepticon team could transform into Earthen cars, and thus humans would easily confuse them with the Autobots.

The Stunticons began to wreak havoc on a highway, and their attack was not a random one; they were targeting the Autobot [[Skids (G1)|Skids]], who (along with the human [[Donny Finkleberg]]) was searching for a group of Cybertronian Autobots that had been accidentally transported to Earth. As the Stunticons neared Skids, Donny ran off to safety. At that moment, a [[Rapid Anti-robot Assault Team|RAAT]] team led by [[Circuit Breaker]] attacked the Decepticons but was somewhat ineffectual. The Stunticons surrounded Skids, who saw the helplessness of his situation and didn't fight back. Then the Aerialbots appeared and began firing at the Stunticons, who pretended to be protecting Skids. Circuit Breaker saw the destructive Stunticons appear to protect the supposed "good guy" Skids, and this further cemented her belief that all robots are evil. After the two Transformer teams merged into their gestalt modes, Circuit Breaker slipped into the fight and blasted Superion with all the energy her suit could provide. This stunned the giant Autobot long enough for the Stunticon gestalt, [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]], to deal a debilitating blow with his cyclone gun. Skids and Donny used the opportunity to escape and continue their mission. {{storylink|Heavy Traffic!}}

The Stunticons withdrew, and the deactivated Superion was taken to RAAT headquarters and disassembled for study. Several other captured Autobots (incidentally, the same ones Skids and Donny had been looking for) were in similar states of dissection when RAAT again moved into the offensive, this time against the two Decepticon [[Battlecharger|Battlechargers]]. In the heat of the battle, Circuit Breaker unintentionally endangered the lives of civilians (and lost the fight anyway). Because of her poor judgment, she was forbidden to participate in any more assaults on the Battlechargers. Itching for revenge on the two Decepticons, she found that her only possible allies were the disassembled Autobots in her lab. It would have taken too long to repair their bodies properly and reconnect their brains, but she knew she could jury-rig them together into a form that she could control. However, she would not be able to subdue them completely, so she struck a deal: If they would obey her commands, then she would let them go after she had had her revenge on the Battlechargers. And that is just what happened. Unfortunately for her, releasing the Autobots got her fired from RAAT. {{storylink|Decepticon Graffiti!}}

Immediately after Ratchet finished repairing the damage inflicted by Circuit Breaker's studies and jury-rigging, the Aerialbots were sent on a new mission: Bumblebee had spotted Bombshell at the grand unveiling of [[Power Station Alpha]], an advanced, mobile nuclear power facility. Sent to assist Bumblebee, the Aerialbots arrived to find their ally in pieces. The anti-terrorist team [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]] had been guarding the station, and, mistaking Bumblebee for a threat, they had destroyed him. The Aerialbots combined into Superion and briefly battled the humans. {{storylink|Blood on the Tracks}} The fight was cut short by a radio message from [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]], who informed Superion that Optimus Prime was dead and that all Autobots were to return to the Ark. The Aerialbots did just that, leaving Bumblebee's wreckage (and some confused G.I. Joes) behind. {{storylink|Power Struggle}}

Later, the Decepticons stole Power Station Alpha and began to use it in a plan that would, if enacted, ultimately destroy the Earth. After clearing up some misunderstandings, an alliance was formed between the Autobots, G.I. Joe, and (recognizing the mutual threat) the terrorist organization called [[Cobra]]. While a team of humans sneak-attacked the station, the Aerialbots participated in a diversionary strike on the Decepticons' island base. As human jets battled the Decepticons' air armada, Superion fought an aerial battle with Devastator, the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]] combiner. Just as Superion defeated his foe, Alpha was destroyed. The beaten Decepticons retreated, and the Autobot-Joe-Cobra alliance dispersed. {{storylink|...All Fall Down!}}

[[Image:Aerialbots buster marvel 50.jpg|left|180px|thumb|The Aerialbots save Buster from a drug overdose.]]
After this point, the Aerialbots faded out of the spotlight. Their next notable appearance was during [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky's]] Decepticon captivity. Wanting the awesome power of the mysterious, spaceborne [[Underbase]] for himself, [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] used Buster as bait to lure the Autobots into a massive battle with the Decepticons. He would use the confusion to sneak off and find the Underbase before anyone else could. Three Aerialbots (Air Raid, Fireflight, and Skydive) were the Advance Security Patrol that found Buster freezing in the Arctic. After the other Autobots arrived, the battle ensued. However, the combatants soon deduced Starscream's plan, and they forged a shaky alliance to stop him. When they found him, they were able to stop him from absorbing all but a small fraction of the Underbase's power...but that was enough to make him virtually invincible. In a show of force, he sought to destroy three major Earth cities. The Aerialbots were easily eliminated while defending [[New York City]]. {{storylink|Dark Star (issue)|Dark Star}}

Although Starscream was eventually destroyed, the severe microchip damage he inflicted on his victims kept them in deactivation for a very long time. Although the technology to repair them did exist, the Autobots didn't have it on the Ark. The Aerialbots and many others were not revived until [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] found a miracle fuel called [[Nucleon]], and they awoke just in time to fight the demi-god [[Unicron]]. After Unicron's destruction, the Decepticons left Cybertron to conquer other worlds. Under Grimlock's impulsive orders, Aerialbot leader Silverbolt piloted the main pursuit ship that flew right into a Decepticon ambush (nearly destroying the entire Autobot army).

Despite this, the Autobots prevailed, and the Decepticons exiled themselves (supposedly) forever. For a time, peace was known, but then a situation developed on Earth: Megatron, who knew nothing of the Decepticon exile, was making his presence known through an alliance with Cobra. He had been on board the Ark when it had crashed in northern [[Canada]] shortly after Unicron's defeat. He had repaired and hidden the Ark, then had made a deal with Cobra: He would give them access to the Ark's technology if they would build him a new body (to his specifications, including a "rail gun," a human invention which he considered superior to his fusion cannon). When G.I. Joe discovered that he had returned, they contacted the Autobots on Cybertron, and a team was sent to Earth to stop him. The team consisted of [[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Spot]], [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]], [[Chase (G1)|Chase]], [[Override (G1)|Override]], [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]], and the Aerialbot Skydive. Megatron quickly destroyed Steeljaw, Chase, and Brawn, and the Autobots realized that they had to come up with some new tactics. Override distracted Megatron while Skydive and Hot Spot snuck aboard the Ark. At some point, Hot Spot left the Ark to stop Cobra, who had a truckload of Cybertronian technology. After destroying Override, Megatron launched the Ark into orbit, aware of neither Skydive nor a second stowaway, the human [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]]. Spike found the body of his [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster partner]], [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]], and merged with it. He and Skydive attacked Megatron, and Max was severely injured. With his last ounce of strength, Max plunged himself into the Ark's [[antimatter]] conversion chamber, setting off a chain reaction that quickly destroyed the ship. Skydive escaped with Megatron's human captive, the brilliant [[Dr. Sidney Biggles-Jones]], and delivered her to G.I. Joe. Upon arrival, he found that Hot Spot had succeeding in destroying Cobra's Cybertronian technology, but he had destroyed himself to prevent his own tech from falling into Cobra's hands. As the only Autobot on Earth, Skydive briefly functioned as a liaison between his own army and the humans. When the main Decepticon army returned and began decimating the Earth, Skydive contacted Optimus Prime and asked for reinforcements. When other Autobots arrived and established a presence on the planet, Skydive was reunited with his fellow Aerialbots.

Soon the vicious [[Swarm (G2)|Swarm]] arrived on the Earth and began devouring all Transformers. The Aerialbot Slingshot was destroyed, along with [[Slag (G1)|Slag]], just moments before Megatron arrived with [[Rheanimum|a substance]] that would make metal virtually indestructible. {{storylink|A Rage in Heaven!}}

===Dreamwave comics continuity===

The Aerialbots' history is largely unknown. They were presumably active with the Autobot army on Cybertron millions of years ago, and received their combination form of Superion prior to the passage of the [[Crisis Intervention Accord]]. Although they were not part of the Ark's original crew, they somehow wound up on Earth in the 1980's, and joined Optimus Prime's team battling the Decepticons on that planet. Like all the Autobots of Earth, they were believed dead after the ''[[Ark II]]'' exploded on its maiden voyage in 1999.

In fact, the Aerialbots lay in a dormant state beneath the Arctic until Optimus Prime used the power of the Matrix to revive them several years later. As Superion, they flew the reactivated Autobots to [[Lazarus]]' base, and then to San Francisco once Megatron reassumed control of the Decepticons. Superion was damaged battling Devastator and the Seekers, and collapsed back into the individual Aerialbots. When San Francisco was threatened with a nuclear missile, however, Silverbolt gathered his team back together, and they shot out over the ocean to intercept the missile as Superion. The missile detonated safely away from the city, but Superion was destroyed. {{storylink|Prime Directive}}

The remains of the Aerialbots were taken into custody by [[Earth Defense Command]], and held in their secret facility in Nevada. {{storylink|Generation One issue 0}}

===Dreamwave ''Transformers/G.I. Joe'' comics===
[[Image:Aerialbot_DW_GIJoe_3.jpg|right|200px|thumb|If only we could find the light switch...]]
The Aerialbots were awakened on the [[Fera Islands]] in 1939 and were reformatted as [[World War II]]-era fighter planes. After joining the battle against [[Cobra]] and the Decepticons, they did battle with the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]], forcing them back. {{storylink|Trial by Fire (issue)|Trial by Fire}} When [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] and [[Roadblock (G.I. Joe)|Roadblock]] fell off a cliff, the Aerialbots combined into Superion and rescued them. {{storylink|Wolves}}

As Superion, the Aerialbots advanced on the Cobra [[Terrordrome]], only to come under fire by [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]. {{storylink|Trenches}} The combiner shielded his allies from enemy fire as long as he could, but eventually succumbed, and the Aerialbots were destroyed. {{storylink|The Iron Fist}}

{{-}}

===Devil's Due ''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers'' comics===
When an Autobot peace ceremony on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] came under attack from the Decepticons, [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] attempted to contact the Aerialbots for reinforcements. Unfortunately, he was interrupted by [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] before he could finish the transmission, and the Aerialbots never arrived. {{storylink|The Art of War issue 4|The Art of War #4}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
[[Image:G1 Silverbolt toy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Silverbolt]]
[[Image:G1Slingshot toy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Slingshot]]
* '''Aerialbots''' (1985)
**[[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]]
**[[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]]
**[[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]]
**[[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]]
**[[Slingshot]]

:The Aerialbots were released in late 1985, in sync with their [[The Key to Vector Sigma, Part 2|television debut]]. They could be bought separately or as a gift set.

:The four smaller toys were sold on cards at the $5 price point. All four share a virtually identical transformation scheme; the tail and nosecone swing up to combine into a backpack, the arms pull out from the sides, and the legs are formed by extending the fuselage. Though they have fused feet and no elbow or neck articulation, ball joints at the shoulders give them remarkable posability at that joint.

:The four smaller jets combine with the much larger Silverbolt (sold boxed with the combiner pieces) to form [[Superion (G1)|Superion]].

===Generation 2===
* '''Aerialbots''' (1994)
**[[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]]
**[[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]]
**[[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]]
**[[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]]
**[[Slingshot]]

:A reissue of the Generation 1 molds, with what might charitably be called ''enhanced visibility'' color schemes.

* '''Air Raid''' (Cyberjet, 1995)

:A redeco of the [[Skyjack]] Stealth Fighter mold.

===Classics===
* '''Fireflight''' (Legends, 2006)

:A redeco of the [[Legends Class|Legends-class]] ''[[Cybertron (toyline)|Cybertron]]'' [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]] mold.

===Universe (2008)===
====Classic Series====
* '''Silverbolt''' (Ultra, 2008)

:''Main article: [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt (G1)#Universe (2008)]]''

*'''Aerial Rivals''' (multi-pack, 2008)

: This Legends-class five-pack contains Air Raid, a redeco of ''Cybertron'' [[Soundwave (Cybertron)|Soundwave]], and Skydive, another redeco of ''Cybertron'' Jetfire.

* '''Special Team Leaders''' (Legends Class multi-pack, 2008)

: Silverbolt is part of this five-pack as a [[redeco]] of the Legends-class ''Cybertron'' [[Thundercracker (Armada)|Thundercracker]] mold.

====G1 Series====
*'''Superion''' (Multi-pack, 2008)
**[[Airazor (Universe)|Airazor]]
**[[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]]
**[[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]]
**[[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]]
**[[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]]

: The ''[[Universe (2008 franchise)|Universe]]'' Aerialbots are redecos of the ''[[Energon (toyline)|Energon]]'' [[Air Team]], only available as a [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] multi-pack in Australia and Singapore. For [[trademark]] reasons, Slingshot was replaced by [[Airazor (Universe)|Airazor]] for this release.

: This multi-pack was released in North America in new packaging as the ''[[Revenge of the Fallen (franchise)|Revenge of the Fallen]]'' [[Aerialbot (ROTF)|Aerialbots]].

==Notes==
* The Aerialbots were additionally homaged by a [[Aerialbot (Universe)|Micromaster team]] in the first [[Universe (2003 toyline)|''Universe'' toyline]].

[[Category:Aerialbots| Aerialbot (G1)]]
[[Category:Autobot subgroups]]
[[Category:Combiner teams]]
[[Category:Generation 1]]
[[Category:Generation 2]]

Air Raid (G1)

2010-06-18T23:20:14Z

76.180.61.89: /* The Transformers cartoon */

{{factions|autobot|autobotg2}}
{{disambig3|Air Raid}}
{{picsneeded|Everything, really}}

:''Air Raid is an [[Autobot]] [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbot]] and later [[Cyberjet]] from the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:G1AirRaid TFU.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Danger? HA! I laugh at danger! LAUGH, I TELL YOU!!!]]
Some might call '''Air Raid''' reckless, the way he dives out of nowhere, charging enemy units head on. Air Raid would laugh at that. A rash and fearless young warrior who loves surprises (especially those that leave his foes too stunned to fight back), he has only one real goal in life: to have fun. Needless to say his attitude puts him in a lot of danger, but you can be sure he's enjoying himself the whole time.

Air Raid combines with his fellow [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]] to form [[Superion (G1)|Superion]].

:''Japanese name'': '''Air Rider'''
:''French-Canadian name'': '''Bombardo'''
:''Italian name'': '''Tornado'''
:''Russian name'': '''Naletchik''' (Налетчик, Raider)

==Fiction==
===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====''The Transformers'' cartoon====
:''Voice actor:'' [[Rob Paulsen]] (English), [[Kenyū Horiuchi]] (Japanese)

At one point during the eternal war with the Autobots on Earth, [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] grew fed up with how his opponents ruled the roads and created a group of Decepticon cars known as the [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticon]]s. In order to give his new warriors life, he brought them to Cybertron and tracked down the ancient supercomputer, [[Vector Sigma]], to input cybernetic personalities into the Stunticons. Thanks to a series of traps and drones in their way, the Autobots failed to prevent Megatron from succeeding and returning to Earth. Seeking to even the playing field, [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] conceived of the idea of retrofitting several broken-down Cybertronian ships into Earthen jets, and bringing them to life as a team of Autobot flyers. With the help of his tech-savvy soldiers, [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]], Wheeljack, [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]], and Prime's own creator, [[Alpha Trion (G1)|Alpha Trion]], Optimus' plan was enacted and the Aerialbots were born. {{storylink|The Key to Vector Sigma, Part 2}}

[[Image:Airraidairassault.jpg|thumb|225px|left|]]Air Raid was with the Aerialbots when they answered a distress call about a canyon cave-in, but the team soon discovered the call was a trap laid by the Combaticons. After taking out Slingshot the Combaticons claimed the upper hand, until the arrival of Autobot reinforcements changed their minds and the tide of battle. As the Combaticons retreated, Silverbolt held Air Raid back from pursuing the Combaticons in order to get his help in digging out Slingshot.
After his recovery, Slingshot volunteered to be a decoy as part of Skydive’s plan to investigate a plane smuggling ring. Air Raid sarcastically told his fellow jets to enjoy their 'vacation' as he departed.

Returning later to assist Slingshot and Skydive, Air Raid and Silverbolt took on Vortex, Ramjet, Blast Off and a fleet of drone jets while under fire from the Combaticons and Megatron’s [[Giant Purple Griffin|purple griffin fortress]]. After the Combaticons formed Bruticus, Air Raid tried to distract the giant Decepticon from smacking Silverbolt, and got smacked himself instead. With the arrival of Fireflight, the Aerialbots combined into Superion and wrestled with Bruticus, then separated again. With a well-placed shot, they set an oil field ablaze and the resulting blast sent the defeated Decepticons and Bruticus flying into the sky.

[[Image:AirraidandaliassaultG1.jpg|thumb|225px|right|Ooh, a snack!]]After regrouping in [[Prince Jumal]]’s palace, Air Raid threatened some good old fashioned Autobot justice against captured Decepticon minion [[Ali]], but Silverbolt said the Aerialbots should let Prince Jumal deal with his fellow human. {{storylink|Aerial Assault}}
{{storylink|War Dawn}}
{{storylink|Cosmic Rust (episode)|Cosmic Rust}}

{{charstubfiction}}

After the death of Megatron and the retaking of Cybertron, Air Raid and the Aerialbots became part of the Autobot Fleet. When [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]], [[Kup (G1)|Kup]] and Spike were kidnapped to [[Quintessa]], the rescue party alerted the Aerialbots to swoop by for covering fire and pick-up. Air Raid and Skydive made the strafing run that took out the Quints' defensive proton cannon. {{storylink|Five Faces of Darkness, Part 2}} When the Quintessons destroyed their own planet to get at the Autobots, the resulting blast wave destroyed the Aerialbots' ship, sending Air Raid and the rest hurtling through space. They eventually impacted on [[Goo #8739B]], and were rescued by [[Wreck-Gar (G1)|Wreck-Gar]] and the [[Junkion (species)|Junkions]]. {{storylink|Five Faces of Darkness, Part 3}}

{{Note|In the episode [[Dark Awakening]], several jets in the Autobot Fleet resembling the Aerialbots' alt modes were destroyed by the Quintessons. Repeatedly. Since the Aerialbots unquestionably survived the attack, it would seem their character models were merely used to build up the size of the fleet, and the casualty figures.}}

When [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]]'s science team were attacked in space, Air Raid and the Aerialbots accompanied Rodimus Prime in rescuing them. As Superion, they confronted a horde of Quintessons and drove them off. After Silverbolt disengaged their super mode, Air Raid still wanted to chase after the Quints, but Silverbolt reined him in. Air Raid chastised him for having no sense of adventure, to which Silverbolt retorted that was exactly why he was in charge. {{storylink|Forever Is a Long Time Coming}}

One lovely afternoon in space, Air Raid was playing cat-and-mouse with Scourge and Cyclonus. Once he had finished his fun, Air Raid led the Decepticon duo into an asteroid field where his fellow Aerialbots were waiting to spring an ambush. The Aerialbots messed the Decepticons up pretty badly, especially after they transformed into Superion. Eventually, they chased the Decepticons through a strange warp in space. This proceeded to have no consequences for [[Sandstorm (G1)|anyone]] [[Paradron|whatsoever]]. {{storylink|Fight or Flee}}

[[Image:Airraidfightorflee.jpg|thumb|200px|left|]]Air Raid and the Aerialbots were spending a relaxing day watching home movies on [[Teletraan II]] when things suddenly got serious, as the Autobots' computer off-handedly informed them [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]] was never destroyed in his last battle with [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]]. When they tracked Trypticon to his new staging grounds, Air Raid and the Aerialbots launched from [[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]], but the Decepticon presence in [[Socialist Democratic Federated Republic of Carbombya|Carbombya]] was more than they had anticipated. Still, Air Raid paid tribute to his leader Silverbolt by reciting his famous battle-cry, "Good-bye, cruel world!" He dipped his singed tailfins in the ocean and managed to make a hasty retreat with Broadside and his fellow Aerialbots. The Aerialbots soon returned with reinforcements and drove the Decepticons from Carbombya. {{storylink|Thief in the Night}}

During a battle in space, Air Raid and the Aerialbots may or may not have been present. Superion, at least, was surely there on the planet [[Eurythma]]...sometimes. {{storylink|Carnage in C-Minor}}

After [[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]] took some hostile fire over the [[Junkion (planet)|planet of Junk]], Rodimus Prime dispatched Air Raid and the Aerialbots to investigate. They were caught in a crossfire between the brain-addled Junkions and the Quintessons, who were responsible for messing with the Junkions' air waves, and their minds. Even after becoming Superion, the Aerialbots took heavy fire and had to be brought back to [[First Aid (G1)|First Aid]] on Cybertron for repairs. {{storylink|The Big Broadcast of 2006 (episode)}}

On one occasion, Air Raid was buzzing too close to [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]] during a battle on Earth, and the dinosaur city unleashed his full plasma breath. Air Raid's tail-fins were scorched and he had to set down in a small lake, but his sacrifice gave Silverbolt a chance to fly down Trypticon's throat now that his flame was temporarily used up. The Aerialbot leader was then able to cause serious internal damage to the giant Decepticon before flying back out again. And Air Raid ''totally'' planned it that way. No, really. {{storylink|The Ultimate Weapon}}

During the Decepticon invasion of Japan, the Aerialbots fought against [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] when he tried to derail a bullet train full of passengers. {{storylink|The Burden Hardest to Bear}} Sometime thereafter, Air Raid and the Aerialbots were recruited by Rodimus Prime to rescue the body of Optimus Prime from [[Gregory Swofford|Swofford]] and [[Mark Morgan|Morgan]]. Unfortunately, this only meant they were among the first Autobots exposed to the [[Hate Plague]]. Despite the madness induced by the red dust, the Aerialbots were apparently still willing to form Superion. Superion ran amok, causing serious property damage, infecting [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]], and taking several other Autobots out of action. {{storylink|The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 1}}

When the Decepticons invaded Cybertron searching for the [[Plasma Energy Chamber]], the Aerialbots tried to stop them. Unfortunately, they didn't reckon with [[Sixshot]]. Flying heedlessly into battle, Air Raid was shot down first by the [[Six Changer]]'s siege tank mode. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 1}} The [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]] then took his [[power pack]] to use as fuel for the giant rocket engine they were constructing for [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]]. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 3}}

====''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' comic====

When the [[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobot]]s confronted Menasor at a baseball stadium, Air Raid and the Aerialbots arrived as back-up. They formed Superion to engage Menasor and [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]]. After [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]] was injured, Superion targeted the Decepticon combiners' legs, shaking them loose and giving the smaller Protectobots a chance to link up with the Decepticon gestalts and override control of their bodies. {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 5}} After the Autobots discovered a utopia island paradise, it was besieged by Megatron and the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]]s, who wanted to build an impregnable fortress. [[Kenji]] radioed for help, and Optimus Prime sent Air Raid and the Aerialbots to the rescue. As Superion they fought off [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] and [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]], using their smarts to outthink the evil warriors. As [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] cast a massive hologram of Metroplex, Air Raid detached from Superion to buzz around Trypticon's head, tricking him into charging at the not-quite-there Autobot. Instead of grappling with his foe, Tryppy tripped over a cliff into the waters below. {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 6}}

====''Scramble City'' cartoon====

Air Raid and the Aerialbots were dispatched from the [[Metroplex (G1)|Scramble City]] project by [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] to aid Optimus Prime in battle with the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]s and [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]. Their aerial firepower frankly overwhelmed the marauding Decepticons, and sent them home with their transistors between their struts. On his second attempt, Megatron sent the Stunticons, who were considerably more successful in engaging the Autobots. Damaged in jet modes, Air Raid the Aerialbots chose instead to merge and form Superion. As Superion, they possessed scramble combining abilities, but so did the Stunticons when they formed Menasor. The Aerialbots were in the midst of reconfiguring their limb formation when Fireflight, being...well, a daydreaming idiot, mixed up whether he was supposed to be the right leg or the left. His indecision gave Menasor time to shoot him down, and [[Wildrider]] assumed the place of Superion's right leg instead, corrupting his programming. Air Raid and the others were trapped as Superion, literally fighting themselves, until Fireflight retook his place as Superion's limb. {{storylink|Scramble City}}

====''The Great Transformer War'' comic====

In 2010, Galvatron kidnapped [[Doctor Dalton]] of [[Eran]] to utilize his skills and improve the Decepticons' combiner technology. Air Raid and the Aerialbots joined the Protectobots in assaulting Trypticon, in hopes of rescuing the hostage scientist. Air Raid and his team formed Superion for a first strike, but the Decepticon combiners countered with their deployment modes, launching the Stunticon and [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]] troops with enough force to tear Superion apart. The Protectobots stood guard over [[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Spot]] as he performed battlefield triage on the Aerialbots in his repair bay mode, bringing them back on-line. Silverbolt then transformed into launcher mode and unleashed Air Raid and the other Aerialbots in their own scramble attack, blinding Menasor and Bruticus long enough for the Autobots to escape safely with Dalton. {{storylink|The Great Transformer War issue 1}}

====''The Headmasters'' cartoon====

Air Raid and the Aerialbots were stationed at Autobot City on Earth in 2011. When Galvatron attacked Cybertron via the old [[Space Bridge]] network, the Aerialbots were summoned to Cybertron as reinforcements. They soon arrived with the [[Trainbot]]s and quickly joined the battle. Air Raid and his team formed Superion and battled [[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]] and Devastator. {{storylink|Four Warriors Come out of the Sky}} Later, the combined Aerialbots fought alongside [[Raiden]] and Defensor against the Decepticon combiners, and were nearly crushed when Bruticus collapsed a building on their position. They were bailed out by the arrival of the [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Battleship Maximus]]. When Hot Rod began his search for the [[Matrix of Leadership]] on Earth, Air Raid and the Aerialbots returned to the humans' planet to assist him. They confronted the Stunticons in the desert, pitting Superion against Menasor yet again. The battle was so fierce it eventually carried them to the Arctic where Hot Rod was searching. {{storylink|The Mystery of Planet Master}}

Air Raid and his flying comrades joined the [[Triple Changer]]s in distracting the Decepticons long enough for [[Twincast]] to sneak inside Trypticon and gather data on the [[Madmachine]]. {{storylink|The Great Cassette Operation}}Sometime later, Air Raid and the Aerialbots were on a research vessel that passed near a [[Metamorpho|strange meteorite]]. The meteorite had been altered by Galvatron to produce gravity-warping waves whenever it detected metal, and so it sent the Aerialbots and their ship twisting through space. Although the Decepticons tried to intervene, the Autobots eventually recovered Air Raid and his injured colleagues. {{storylink|Approach of the Demon Meteorite}}

Following a lengthy repair cycle, Air Raid and the Aerialbots were ready for action when Galvatron and the Decepticons laid siege to Cybertron one last time. Transporting to Cybertron from Earth, they raced into battle (on foot, for some reason). Air Raid and the team got the drop on the Stunticons when they merged into Superion, smashing and scattering the 'Cons before they could form Menasor. {{storylink|Cybertron Is in Grave Danger, Part 1}} As the fighting continued, the Aerialbots battled Abominus as Superion and later separated to trade blaster fire with the Stunticons. The warring only came to an end once [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]'s bombs blew up [[Vector Sigma]] and annihilated the planet.{{storylink|Cybertron Is in Grave Danger, Part 2}}

When a giant carnivorous plant attacked San Francisco, Ultra Magnus dispatched Air Raid and the Aerialbots to combat it. Although they made frequent bombing runs on the organism, the Aerialbots were unable to stop it. Only the arrival of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] and his powerful giant [[Transtector]] brought an end to the creature's rampage. {{storylink|Head On!! Fortress Maximus}} Air Raid and the Aerialbots were part of a strike team that flew to the [[Moon (moon)|moon]] to disrupt Scorponok's gathering of Decepticons. They immediately formed Superion upon entering the battle. {{storylink|Return of the Immortal Emperor}}

When one of Scorponok's Death Towers emerged in Washington D.C., Air Raid and the Aerialbots were dispatched to investigate it. As part of Superion, Air Raid participated in the Autobots final battle with Scorponok's Decepticons at the North Pole. He lent his energies to the Headmasters' [[Head Formation]] to revitalize Fortress Maximus at the critical moment. {{storylink|The Final Showdown on Earth (Part 2)}}

===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Generation 1====
{{noteukonly}}
''Thanks to his previous connection to the [[Creation Matrix]], [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]] began experiencing dreams and visions of new Transformers, beginning with an etching of Superion he made without even being consciously aware of it. {{storylink|Devastation Derby!}} By sharing his visions with [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]], Buster was able to clarify the images and understand the future of the evolution of the Cybertronian race—amalgam model robots like the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]]' [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]], capable of a more-streamlined merging into a more powerful form. It was these visions which allowed Optimus Prime and [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] to conceive of and construct the Aerialbots. {{storylink|Second Generation!}}''

Working on a plan to reverse engineer the gestalt technology the Decepticons used to create Devastator, Optimus Prime and the Autobots staged a daring raid on the Decepticon base of operations, giving [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] enough time to digitally record the Constructicons' electrical transformation pattern for study. {{storylink|Command Performances!}} Working off that blueprint, Wheeljack successfully created Air Raid and the Aerialbots. During the new warriors' testing phase, however, the Autobots were alerted to a Decepticon operation at Hoover Dam. Only the Aerialbots were fast enough to reach the location in time, and so Prime was forced to send them into battle before their programming was completed.

Air Raid proved to be the most effective of the new Aerialbots in battle. After his fellow jets took a few hits in battle with the Cybertronian [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]], Air Raid singlehandedly shook their formation and tore up [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]'s nosecone with his torque rifle, giving the other Aerialbots time to regroup.

The Aerialbots eventually turned the tide on the Decepticons and drove them off, giving them time to focus on the energy siphon which was the core of the problem. At Silverbolt's command, they merged into Superion and began dismantling the drill device. A problem arose, however, when [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]]'s [[cerebro-shell]] controlled pawn [[Ricky Vasquez]] pointed [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (in his gun mode) at the giant Autobot. Because the majority of the Aerialbots were not programmed specifically to protect human life, Superion only saw a potential threat that needed to be eliminated. As the human fought against the Decepticons' control, Silverbolt too fought inside Superion's gestalt mind to protect the human. In the end, Silverbolt was forced to disengage Superion to keep him from destroying the human. Luckily, Ricky was more successful and managed to break the cerebro-shell's hold long enough to point Megatron at the drill and destroy it, ending the threat. {{storylink|Aerialbots over America!}}

After the near disaster at Hoover Dam, Optimus Prime had the Aerialbots shut down and their programming completely erased. Returned to a blank slate, he then inputted fully-programmed personalities for them with the Matrix before their next mission. It, uh...didn't help. In battle with [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] as Superion, the Aerialbots were attacked by [[Circuit Breaker]], deactivated, and captured by [[Rapid Anti-robot Assault Team|RAAT]]. It was only a lucky break that they were eventually freed. {{storylink|Heavy Traffic!}}

As [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] took over the Autobots, Air Raid and the other Aerialbots took an extended leave of absence from the war, since the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobot]] commander focused Autobot resources on repairing their fallen comrades and prepping the Ark to become spaceworthy again.

Sometime later, it was Air Raid, [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]], and [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] who were the first to respond to a distress call from Buster Witwicky, the Autobots' old human ally who had been prisoner to the Decepticons for nearly a year. This led the combined Autobot and Decepticon forces into battle with [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]], who had acquired the nigh-infinite power of the [[Underbase]] for himself. The Aerialbots were his first victims, wiped out in a single blast of cosmic power in the skies over New York City. {{storylink|Dark Star (issue)|Dark Star}}

Along with the other deactivated Autobots aboard the Ark, Air Raid and the Aerialbots were eventually revived by the [[Nucleon]] super-energy Grimlock and the Dinobots recovered from [[Hydrus Four]].

=====Earthforce=====
{{earthforcefiction}}
''One dark and stormy night, Air Raid heard a commotion in the halls of Earthforce's makeshift shuttle base, and turned on the lights to fight [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] and [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] struggling with each other in the dark. The story was, Skydive had come by to relieve Wheeljack from guard duty, only to find the post abandoned and signs of a serious struggle in place of his comrade. There was a smoldering patch of ground, a hastily discarded blaster, and animal tracks all over. Thinking quickly, Skydive concluded that one of the [[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]] had entered the base and ambushed Wheeljack where he sat. He rushed back to the shuttle and found the door had been forced. Seeing a shadowy figure carrying a heavy burden in the dark, Skydive figured it for the Predacon carrying Wheeljack's remains and LEAPT into action!''

''As it turned out, Wheeljack had just overheated the makeshift heating unit he had brought out to keep warm. Getting tangled in the smoking heater, Wheeljack knocked over his own table and broke the lamp. The noise brought an angry polar bear over, and a frantic Wheeljack tore out of there carrying the still smoldering heater, forcing the door to the shuttle when he reached it. Then some NUT jumped him from out of nowhere!''

''Air Raid suggested everyone go to bed and forget the incident ever happened. The motion carried. {{storylink|Mystery!}}''

''Air Raid was present with the entire Earthforce team outside Autobot Earthbase when Wheeljack unveiled his brand-new unbreachable defensive system. This was unfortunate, as Wheeljack had forgotten that, once activated, the system could only be turned off from the inside. [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] elected to run the gauntlet and reach the shutdown console inside, and the Aerialbots provided air support for him. Air Raid and his buddies gunned down the [[Acid Bats]] at the entryway, giving Prowl his chance to get through. {{storylink|The House that Wheeljack Built!}}''

{{note|Unlike the rest of Earthforce, the return of the Aerialbots (besides Silverbolt) was never explained on panel. Presumably, Wheeljack rebuilt them in the Bodyshop much like he did for [[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]].}}

=====Marvel UK future timelines=====
''In 2008, Air Raid and [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] rushed to defend [[Autobot City]] from [[Quintesson]] invaders. Their crew was quickly overwhelmed, however, and so were the duo when they ran to get some more help. {{storylink|Space Pirates!}}''

=====''Another Time and Place''=====
Air Raid joined Silverbolt and Skydive in an assault on Hydrus Four, blasting open a medical center occupied by the Decepticons in order to rescue the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]] and prevent the resurrection of Megatron. {{storylink|Another Time and Place}}

====Generation 2====
After the defeat of [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] and his Decepticons on [[Klo]], the Autobots split into smaller combat units throughout the universe. Once Optimus Prime and Grimlock learned of the threat posed by the second generation [[Cybertronian (faction)|Cybertronian army]], though, the Autobot forces reconsolidated under their command. Air Raid and the other Aerialbots were first seen after the Autobots had retreated to an asteroid sanctuary for retraining. They were, um, outsmarted by [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]]. {{storylink|The Power and the Glory}} Later, he was rescued by the Decepticon [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] in the skies over [[Ethos]] while battling G2 Cybertronians. {{storylink|Escalation!}} Still, he managed to do a little better against the Cybertronian Empire the second time around, popping jets out of the sky so that the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]] could, ah...greet them on the ground below. {{storylink|Total War!}}

===Dreamwave comics continuity===
[[Image:PrimeDirective6_AirRaid_punches_Starscream.jpg|thumb|right|250px|]]
At some point in the late 20th century, Air Raid and the Aerialbots joined the crew of the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'' in defeating the Decepticons on Earth, only to be deactivated when the ''[[Ark II]]'' exploded in mid-air on its journey back to Cybertron. {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 1|Prime Directive #1}} Using the [[Matrix of Leadership]], Optimus Prime revived the Aerialbots in 2002 {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 2|Prime Directive #2}}, after which they formed Superion to battle the Decepticons in northwestern [[Canada]]. {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 3|Prime Directive #3}} The battle eventually moved to [[San Francisco]], where Air Raid punched [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] before learning that the insane General [[Robert Hallo]] had launched a nuclear missile at the city in an attempt to destroy all of the Transformers. The Aerialbots formed Superion to stop the nuke above the ocean, sacrificing themselves in the process. {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 6|Prime Directive #6}}

The remains of Air Raid and the other Aerialbots were gathered up and studied by [[Earth Defense Command]]. {{storylink|Generation One issue 0|Generation One issue #0}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
[[Image:Airraid toy.jpg|thumb]]
* '''Air Raid''' (Aerialbot, 1986/1991)
**''Team ID number'': '''A5'''
**''Japanese ID number'': '''C-54'''
**''Accessories'': "[[Torque rifle]]"

: Air Raid transforms from a black [[wikipedia:F-15 Eagle|F-15 Eagle]]. He can combine with his fellow Aerialbots to form Superion, and as a [[Combiner|Scramble City]]-style limb toy, he can also combine with any Scramble City team leader, though his nominal position is as Superion's left leg.

: In Japan, the Aerialbots were all made available again as mail-away items during ''[[Return of Convoy (toyline)|Return of Convoy]]''. The smaller toys cost 1000 yen (120 more than their original retail price!) and 2 [[robot points]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/1986/Autobot/AirRaid/airraid.htm More information on Air Raid at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|Superion}}
*'''Superion''' (Gift set, 1986)
**''Japanese ID number'': '''C-55'''

: All five Aerialbots were also available in many markets as a gift set. The toys were unchanged from their individual releases.

{{-}}

===Generation 2===
* '''Air Raid''' (Aerialbot, 1994)
**''Team ID number'': '''A2'''
**''Accessories'': "Torque Rifle"

: The first ''Generation 2'' Air Raid was a [[redeco]] of the original. His plane mode was primarily blue and featured stickers with a pattern reminiscent of the costume of a [[human]] [[Spider-Man|superhero]]. His robot mode was mostly white and silver .

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/1994/Autobot/AirRaid/airraid.htm More information on Generation 2 Air Raid at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|Cyberjet}}
[[Image:AirRaidCybJet-AeroRaid-toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|]]
* '''Air Raid''' (Cyberjet, 1995)
**''Accessories'': 2 missiles

: Air Raid's second ''Generation 2'' appearance was a redeco of the [[Cyberjet]] [[Skyjack]], transforming into an [[Popular Earth vehicle alternate modes|F-117A Nighthawk]]. He features a pressure-launch missile launcher that becomes his right arm in robot mode. His non-loaded missiles can be stored in clips on the undersides of his wings.

: This toy was sold in Japan without changes (though it did come with an extra decal sheet) as [[Aero Raid]]. This mold was also used to make the 2004 ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'' [[#Universe (2003)|version of Air Raid]], and ''[[Robot Masters (toyline)|Robot Masters]]'' [[Delta Seeker]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/1995/Autobot/AirRaid/airraid.htm More information on Cyberjet Air Raid at TFU.info]''

{{-}}

===Universe (2003)===
[[Image:TFU03-toy AirRaidCyberjet.jpg|right|thumb|300px|]]
* '''Air Raid & Wind Sheer''' (Deluxe, 2004)
**''Accessories'': Missile

: For the ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'' line, the Cyberjet Air Raid was redecoed again and released in a two-pack with the [[Decepticon]] [[Wind Sheer (Universe)|Wind Sheer]] at the Deluxe price point. The lack of [[Bio|bios]] for ''Universe'' characters leaves open the possibility that this is not the original Air Raid. Then again, there's nothing that says it ''isn't'', either.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2004/Autobot/AirRaid/airraid.htm More information on Universe 2003 Air Raid at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
===Universe (2008)===
====Classic Series====
*'''Aerial Rivals''' (multi-pack, 2008)

: A redeco of the ''[[Cybertron (toyline)|Cybertron]]'' [[Soundwave (Cybertron)|Soundwave]]'s ''Legends of Cybertron'' figure, Air Raid's colorscheme is based upon his ''Generation 2'' Cyberjet incarnation and was only available in a set with [[Blades (G1)|Blades]], [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]], [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]], and [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]].

: The packaging back mistakenly swaps Air Raid and Skydive's names.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2008/Autobot/TFUSkydive/skydive.htm More information on Legends Air Raid (mislabeled) at TFU.info]''

====G1 Series====
[[Image:Universe2008 AirRaid.jpg|right|300px|thumb|]]
*'''Superion''' (Multi-pack, 2008)
**''Accessories:'' 2 dual-barrel cannons, connector piece, Autobot-type [[energon star]]

:Available only as a component of Superion, this version of Air Raid is a dark grey and black [[redeco]] of [[Energon (toyline)|''Energon'']] [[Windrazor (Energon)|Windrazor]]/[[Treadshot (Energon)|Treadshot]], transforming into a small, futuristic fighter resembling an F-22 Raptor. He can also form a leg or arm to any ''Energon''-series "[[Powerlinx]] [[Combiner]]" super robot, though his nominal placement is as the left leg to Superion. He comes with two double-barreled guns and a connector piece, which can form hand-held weapons as well as become a footplate or "hand" for his combined mode, plus a blue "super energon" Autobot-style energon star that fits over his [[spark crystal]].

:Air Raid was released, along with the others in this box set, in ''[[Universe (2008 franchise)|Universe]]'' (2008) packaging in Australia and Singapore, but was only released as Target-[[exclusive]] set in ''[[Revenge of the Fallen (franchise)|Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen]]'' [[Superion (ROTF)|Superion]] packaging in North America. Thus, this toy doubles as [[Movie (toyline)|Movie]] [[Air Raid (Movie)|Air Raid]].

:This mold was also used to make [[Fun Publications]] [[Transformers Collectors Club]]-[[exclusive]] [[Breakaway (Classics)|Breakaway]], ''Universe'' [[Airazor (Universe)|Airazor]] and ''Revenge of the Fallen'' [[Airazor (ROTF)|Airazor]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2009/Autobot/AirRaid/airraid.htm More information on Air Raid at TFU.info]''

==External links==
*[http://www.tfu.info/1986/Autobot/AirRaid/airraid.htm Air Raid at TFU.info]
*[http://www.ntfa.net/universe/english/index.php?act=view&char=Air_Raid Air Raid's Universe profile at NTFA.net]

[[Category:Aerialbots]]
[[Category:Autobots]]
[[Category:Combiners]]
[[Category:Cyberjets]]
[[Category:Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category:Generation 2 characters]]
[[Category:Headmasters characters]]
[[Category:Mail order items]]
[[Category:Universe characters]]

Mirage (G1)

2010-06-13T01:24:22Z

76.180.61.89: /* The Transformers cartoon */

{{picsneeded|Fiction appearances, toys}}
{{factions|autobot|autobotg2}}
{{disambig3|Mirage}}
:''Mirage is an [[Autobot]] from the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:Mirageg1.jpg|right|300px|thumb|"The ship was... full."]]
'''Mirage''' is what humans call "old money." Before the war, he was a member of affluent Cybertronian society, with his own large estate and high-priced [[Mirage's friends|friends]]. He enjoyed the finer things in life: vintage [[Energon (fuel)|energon]], swank evening events, and [[turbofox]] hunts on the grounds. But when the war started, he was forced to choose sides and found himself banded with a group of commoners he didn't really understand.

Some of the other Autobots don't trust Mirage. He feels the war, even after all these millions of years, is beneath him. War is not, after all, how civilized, erudite beings conduct themselves. He often questions the Autobots' violent means, and not-so-secretly hopes they and the Decepticons can get along. Because of this, he has been labelled by a few others as a Decepticon sympathizer. Still, he sided with the Autobots for a reason, and he is there for the Autobots when they need him.

Although the details vary by continuity, Mirage has the ability to create illusions which typically either render him invisible or make him appear to be somewhere he isn't.

He sounds like [[wikipedia:Dean Martin|Dean Martin]].

:''Japanese name:'' '''Ligier''' or '''Rijie''' (リジェ ''Rije'')
:''Hungarian name:'' '''Délibáb''' ("Mirage")
:''Italian name:'' '''Mistero''' ("Mystery")
:''Portuguese name:'' '''Miragem''' ("Mirage")
:''Chinese name (Taiwan):'' '''Hǎi-shr-shèn-lóu''' (海市蜃樓, "Mirage") / '''Hàun-yǐng''' (幻影, "Phantom")

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Generation 1====
{{noteukonly}}
[[Image:Miragebluestreakfirst.jpg|left|250px|thumb|Mirage tells the story of how he got his name every five minutes.]]
Mirage was one of the Autobots on board the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] when it crashed, and was subsequently reactivated in 1984. At first, Mirage was reluctant to full-on attack his Decepticon opponents, instead trying to reason with them. However, after a battle with the relentless [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]], Mirage learned that sometimes diplomacy is not an option. {{storylink|The Last Stand}}

[[Image:Mirageg1enemywithin.jpg|right|125px|thumb|Punk'd!]]
''During an accident on the Ark, [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] suffered an extreme neuro-shock, causing him to rebel and turn against his teammates. Mirage helped the Autobots hunt him down and tranquilize him. This same accident also amplified Mirage's ability to create illusions, which he later used to trick the Decepticons into believing that a duel between Brawn and [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] ended with Brawn's death. The Decepticons felt totally stupid.'' {{storylink|The Enemy Within!}}

In the wake of a disastrous mission to rescue [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]]'s captive head from the Decepticons, most of the Autobots were rendered inoperative. Mirage was one of a handful of Autobots who remained active, accompanying Optimus and various newer Autobots on several subsequent missions. {{storylink|Rock and Roll-Out!}} {{storylink|I, Robot-Master!}} {{storylink|Command Performances!}}

''Mirage lucked out during the Dinobot Hunt—he was assigned to B-Team, whose quarry, Snarl, was knocked out by the destruction of a human military base, leaving him inert and easy to capture.'' {{storylink|Dinobot Hunt!}}

Long after, he was blown to pieces by [[Octane]] during an Arctic battle arranged by [[Starscream (G1)| Starscream]]. He recovered in time to be destroyed again in [[New York City]] by Starscream himself (empowered by the [[Underbase]]). {{storylink|Dark Star (issue)|Dark Star}}

====Generation 2====
[[Image:Mirageg2die.jpg|left|120px|thumb|"Got to—" '''SPOOM!''']]
Disobeying [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]]'s orders, [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] led a covert team (which included Mirage) onto the [[Cybertronian (faction)|Cybertronian Empire]] ship ''[[Twilight (G2)|Twilight]]'' to defeat [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]] and his army of "evolved Decepticons". Grimlock's plan was an utter failure, ending in [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]]'s death and the Autobots' capture. Mirage was destroyed by enemy fire during the following prison break. {{storylink|Devices and Desires! (Marvel)|Devices and Desires!}}

{{-}}
====Classics====
{{note| The Classics comic takes place after the end of the original Marvel Comic, but in a new timeline that does not include the events of the Marvel UK-exclusive stories or Generation 2.}}
Having been revived (presumably by [[Nucleon]]), Mirage was the happiest of them all, until he saw just how badly his way of life was affected by warfare. Mirage found that ages of warfare had made him bitter. Eventually, he decided to join Optimus Prime in returning to Earth, and war with Megatron.<ref>Mirage Classics Profile, [[Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 13]]</ref>

His actions include evacuating [[Armored Robot Hunters|RUNTs]] and their pilots, holding [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] at gunpoint, and revealing that his illusion powers (in this continuity) now ''include'' invisibility. {{storylink|Crossing Over}}

He later secretly followed [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] to a meeting from his crew of the [[Graviton (Classics)|Graviton]]. Unfortunately, he tried to crash Starscream's meeting with [[Bug Bite (G1)|Bug Bite]]. [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]]'s infra-red sensors, and [[Weirdwolf]]'s keen nose allowed the Decepticons to find him, and he was gift-wrapped for Megatron. When the Gravitron crew led by Grimlock and [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] attacked the Decepticon base, Mirage was rescued by [[Strongarm (Classics)|Strongarm]], [[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]], [[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]], and [[Elita One]]. {{storylink|Games of Deception}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====''The Transformers'' cartoon====
:''Voice actor:'' [[Frank Welker]] (English), [[Takurō Kitagawa]] (Japanese)
[[Image:MTMTE2 Mirage talking to Spike.jpg|right|240px|thumb|The sensors had to place Spike's head there for a reason.]]
Mirage was part of the bridge crew of the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] when it crash-landed on Earth four million years ago. A volcanic eruption in 1984 awakened the Ark's inhabitants, including Mirage, who was reformatted by [[Teletraan I (G1)|Teletraan I]] to have a terrestrial alternate mode of a Formula-1 racer. His first mission came when the Autobots rolled out to stop the Decepticons attacking an oil rig. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 1}} After the battle, he got to show off his invisibility power to [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]]. Following another failed battle at [[Sherman Dam]], he suggested they simply leave Earth to the Decepticons and return to Cybertron, a suggestion soundly rejected by [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]]. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 2}}

[[Image:MTMtE Part3 Mirage HALOjump.jpg|left|200px|thumb]]
At the [[Ruby Crystal Mines of Burma]], when Optimus was caught in an explosion, Mirage helped right him. He expressed hope that with the Decepticons perished in the explosion, they'd be able to return to Cybertron, but his optimism was quashed a few moments later when their foe emerged, functional and with more energy to fuel their [[Victory (ship)|new star cruiser]]. While guarding Ravage, Mirage gave Hound the idea to spring a trap on the Decepticons using a holographic rocket base. Unfortunately the Decepticons saw through the plan and raided the real rocket base, attaining the rest of the energy they needed. During the final Autobot operation to try and prevent the launch of the Decepticon cruiser, Mirage used his cloaking ability to sneak aboard. While the Decepticons were squabbling, he uncloaked and opened fire, blasting away at the ship's controls. He then bailed from the doomed cruiser, floating back to Earth's surface on a parasail as the Decepticons crashed into the ocean. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 3}}

After [[Chip Chase]] was kidnapped by the Decepticons who were after the antimatter formula the boy had memorised, Hound and Mirage utilised their respective powers to sneak into the antimatter laboratory. They were able to rescue Chip, but the Decepticons had managed to get the formula and use it to create Energon. Mirage subsequently helped defend Autobot Headquarters. {{storylink|Roll for It}} Mirage rolled out to protect Autobot Headerquarters while [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] and [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] worked to save Prime's life, after the Autobot leader was badly damaged in a Decepticon attack. {{storylink|Divide and Conquer}} He took part in the construction of the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobot]]s... and then had to try to stop them when they ran wild. He, [[Bluestreak]] and [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] sealed the three Dinobots in a cave, but were mighty grateful when, after almost all of the Autobots were captured by the Decepticons, the Dinobots were released to come to the rescue. {{storylink|S.O.S. Dinobots}}

[[Image:CountdowntoExtinction Mirage firing missile.jpg|right|210px|thumb]]
When Megatron was using [[hypno-chip]]ped humans to load Energon onto their shuttle for transport to Cybertron, Mirage used his invisibility to sneak on board and order the humans to start unloading the Energon again. He was blasted in the back a short time later by [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]. {{storylink|The Ultimate Doom, Part 3}} When the Autobots were caught in quicksand while pursuing the Decepticons, Mirage used his shoulder missile to shoot down [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]]. {{storylink|Countdown to Extinction (episode)|Countdown to Extinction}} Mirage turned out with the other Autobots to watch Optimus and Megatron engage in single combat as per Cybertronian law. To their horror, Optimus lost, but they later discovered that Megatron had cheated, so the results were nullified. {{storylink|Heavy Metal War}}

[[Image:CityOfSteel Mirage carrying alligatorcon.jpg|thumb|left|210px]]
Mirage rolled out to attack Megatron's [[Solar Needle]] and rescue [[Gears (G1)|Gears]], but didn't play much role in the battle. {{storylink|Changing Gears}} He was on Ratchet's team, entering the sewers of [[New York City]] in an attempt to rescue Optimus. After tangling with an [[Alligatorcon]], they found Prime... in pieces. The Alligatorcon had been built from Optimus's parts, and Mirage, Ratchet and Hound had to capture it so Ratchet could rebuild their leader. Once Optimus had been put back together, they proceeded to the surface and battled Decepticons, [[battle taxi]]s and Prime's own severed arm. {{storylink|City of Steel}}

[[Image:Traitor Mirage cerebro shell implant.jpg|thumb|right|200px|ET phone home.]]
The spotlight shone on Mirage again when [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] suspected him of disloyalty. The discovery of a Decepticon installation in a sector Mirage had recently scouted caused Cliffjumper to leap the incorrect conclusion that Mirage had concealed the information and was a traitor to the Autobots. During a battle with the Decepticons at the site, Mirage was injured, but managed to rip a Decepticon [[Insignia|seal]] off [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]. Mirage risked the trust of his comrades by sneaking away to perform a plan of his own, framing the Decepticons for stealing [[Energon cube|Energon cubes]] from the [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]]. Spotted carrying the cubes by Cliffjumper, Mirage's guilt seemed all but confirmed, and before he could reveal his innocence, he was captured and brainwashed by one of [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]]'s mind-controlling [[Cerebro-shell|cerebro-shells]]. Under Bombshell's control, Mirage led the Autobots into an ambush, but at the battle’s end, the assorted manipulations were revealed and Cliffjumper apologized to Mirage. {{storylink|Traitor}}

[[Image:AutobotRun Jazz Mirage vehicle modes.jpg|thumb|left|240px]]
Mirage took part in a charity race organised by the Autobots. While they raced and performed stunts, the Autobots were affected by Megatron's latest invention, the [[Transfixatron]], which locked them in their vehicle modes. They were herded by the Decepticons to a ghost town, where the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]]s had created a machine to destroy them. It was only through an intervention of Ratchet and Wheeljack's counter invention that they were saved. {{storylink|The Autobot Run}}

[[Image:EntertheNightbird invisible Mirage.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Maybe this would be a good time to practice my mime act...]]
Mirage came with the other Autobots when they were hired by [[Doctor Fujiyama the Famous Scientist]] to protect [[Nightbird (G1)|his latest invention]] when it was being unveiled. When Decepticons attacked, Mirage became invisible and attacked Soundwave. Megatron offered to make Mirage disappear for good, but Optimus Prime saw to it that it wouldn't come true. After the Decepticons made off with Nightbird, Mirage and Ratchet insisted that [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] stay behind at Autobot base for repairs. As Brawn and [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] were being repaired, Optimus detected an intruder. Mirage went to investigate, only to be beaten up by a Decepticon-reprogrammed Nightbird. Mirage pursued her with the other Autobots. When they caught up with her, Mirage became invisible in order to return Optimus Prime's laser rifle undetected, giving him the advantage. {{storylink|Enter the Nightbird}}

When Mirage and the other Autobots found they mysteriously had two Optimus Primes, the duo were subjected to a series of inconclusive tests. Before any further testing could be done, they had to roll out to a crevasse filled with [[korlonium crystal]]s to investigate strange readings. During the battle with the Decepticons that followed, the real Prime's identity was soon revealed. {{storylink|A Prime Problem}} Mirage was part of [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]]'s team when they stumbled on the Decepticons' drilling operation. As [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] blasted him off a cliff, Mirage became invisible so the Decepticons would "never find [his] pieces". Of course, he survived and he and Sunstreaker used his grappling hook to take down Devastator. Back at Headquarters, a plan was hatched to plant [[dominator disc]]s on the Constructicons. Mirage took part, planting two of the discs at once, and Devastator was soon under Autobot control. Alas, it didn't last long — while they were trying to stop the Decepticons drilling to the Earth's core, Megatron retook control of the combiner. {{storylink|The Core}}

Mirage was at Headquarters when [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] and [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] reported the discovery of [[Dinobot Island (G1)|Dinobot Island]]. {{storylink|Dinobot Island, Part 1}} Through a cunning plan on Megatron's part, the Autobots were found guilty of stealing energy and forced to leave Earth in a spaceship supplied by [[Shawn Berger]]. {{storylink|Megatron's Master Plan, Part 1}} They soon discovered that the spacecraft was locked on course to the [[Sun]]. Through the heroic efforts of Chip Chase and bungling of [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]], as well as the use of [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] and [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]]'s force fields, the Autobots returned to Earth, where the Decepticons had already revealed their true nature. {{storylink|Megatron's Master Plan, Part 2}}

[[Image:DesertionDinobots1 Mirage steals fusion cannon.jpg|thumb|left|240px]]
During an attempt by the Decepticons to steal the plans to the [[Ultra Plane]], Mirage used his invisibility to steal Megatron's [[fusion cannon]] right off the Decepticon leader's arm. A brief tug-of-war ensued over the weapon, which Mirage lost, but Megatron retreated in the end anyhow. Later, as the Dinobots were being repaired after another battle, Mirage reminisced about how great Cybertron was. When [[Cybertonium]] depletion started affecting all of the Transformers, Mirage's invisibility power went on the fritz — instead of making him invisible, it merely altered his color scheme slightly. Unfortunately he didn't find this out until after he tried to sneak up on [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] and was promptly blasted into a wall. {{storylink|Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 1}} The Autobots' condition worsened, until they were unable to move. They remained this way until the Dinobots, Spike and [[Carly]] managed to retrieve more Cybertonium from Cybertron. {{storylink|Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 2}}

[[Image:GoldenLagoon Mirage reports to Autobots.jpg|thumb|right|220px]]
Mirage rolled out for [[Haley Observatory]] when Megatron stole the [[Voltronic Galaxer]], but went missing somewhere along the way, and didn't arrive with the rest of the group. {{storylink|Blaster Blues}} He was part of an Autobot team who faced [[electrum]]-plated Decepticons with little success. He had to retreat back to [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]]'s position for reinforcements. When even Omega fell before the Decepticons, Mirage returned to Headquarters to break the news, and [[Teletraan I (G1)|Teletraan I]] soon worked out how the Decepticons had become invincible. Soon the Autobots had found the electrum pool and, coating themselves, were able to defeat the Decepticons. {{storylink|The Golden Lagoon}} After a number of Autobots were abducted by big game hunter [[Lord Chumley]], Mirage was present at Headquarters when Cosmos finally located the missing Autobots. {{storylink|Prime Target}} He also helped coat the [[Statue of Liberty]] with [[corrostop]], Perceptor's latest invention. {{storylink|Cosmic Rust (episode)|Cosmic Rust}}

Mirage was among the team of five Autobots who disguised themselves as the [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]], with Mirage's alternate mode making him the perfect choice to masquerade as [[Drag Strip]]. Penetrating the Decepticon camp, the Autobots ran into trouble when the real Stunticons arrived, trying to prove their identities by forming [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]]. With a combination of [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]]'s magnetic powers and Mirage’s illusion-creating ability, the Autobots were able to appear as Menasor too. Though the deception was soon revealed, they were still able to thwart the Decepticons’ plans. {{storylink|Masquerade}}

{{note|An unused scene from the storyboard for [[The Transformers: The Movie]] showed Mirage wounded (possibly killed) by Megatron after getting back at Bombshell for [[Traitor|jeopardizing his career]]. Given the high body count, his death is still likely.}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====

=====''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' comic=====

Mirage was among the Autobots stationed at [[Ark (G1)|Autobot headquarters]] in [[Arizona]] when [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] and the Decepticons attacked. Though the Autobots were ultimately victorious, the entire attack was actually just a distraction so that [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] could go perform ''evil'' somewhere in Japan. {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 2}}

Mirage later appeared at the Autobots' newly constructed Japanese base, welcoming the small [[human]] boy, [[Kenji]]. {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 4}}

=====''Full Throttle Scramble Power!''=====
{{storylink|Full Throttle Scramble Power!}}

=====''Robot Masters'' pack-in comics=====

=====''Robot Masters'' online comics=====
{{charstubfiction}}

=====''Story of Binaltech''=====
Mirage volunteered for an experimental new Binaltech upgrade that boosted the [[power chip rectifier]] in his revamped body to the Nth degree, making him permanently invisible thanks to his electro-disruptor. This proved to be key in a special mission conceived of by [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]]. Having uncovered several secrets from the files of the time-traveling [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]], the Autobots learned of a mysterious [[Large switch|switch]] hidden away on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] which, when pulled, would instantaneously immobilize all Transformers throughout the universe. Having lost Cybertron to [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s tyrannical rule and facing considerable odds in the Sol System as well, Prime decided it was necessary to activate the switch in order to end the war.

With [[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]] and several [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] [[GT System|GTs]] awaiting his signal as back-up, Mirage invisibly infiltrated Decepticon-controlled Cybertron and made his way to the switch. After throwing the switch, though, Mirage was surprised to find that he was still mobile. It seemed the Binaltech warriors (both Autobot and Decepticon) were significantly different enough from regular Transformers to be unaffected by the immobilization wave. With the Autobots now vastly outnumbering the Decepticons still in operation, the tide of the war had irreparably shifted. {{storylink|Kill Switch}}

=====''The Headmasters'' cartoon=====
[[Image:JHeadmasters01VariousGuys.jpg|thumb|200px|Combined screenshot used to avoid having to put up two tiny ones. Ignore the bottom!]]
Some time before the Transformers' war left Cybertron, Mirage engaged the Decepticons in battle with his comrades. {{storylink|Four Warriors Come out of the Sky}}

{{note|For whatever reason, this pre-title screen Cybertronian skirmish was left out of both the United Kingdom and Australian DVD releases of the ''Headmasters'' series.}}

{{-}}
===Dreamwave comics continuity===
{{notekeepers}}
Despite his misgiving about the war effort, Mirage's tenure with the Autobot cause dates back to the time of [[Sentinel Prime (G1)|Sentinel Prime]]. When Shockwave staged a disastrous offensive against [[Iacon]], Mirage was there defending the [[Decagon]] alongside Prowl and the other Autobot soldiers. {{storylink|The War Within issue 5}} During the Dark Ages, he continued serving under Prowl as part of the main Autobot faction at [[Virtue's Forum]], in the remains of Iacon. Alongside Jazz and [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]], he tried defending their prisoner, [[Blitzwing (G1)|Experiment D-43]], against the intruder known as [[The Fallen]], but failed miserably in the process. {{storylink|War Within: The Dark Ages}}

Four million years ago, Mirage crash-landed on the planet Earth aboard the shuttle known as the Ark, with more than two dozen of his fellow Autobots and Decepticons. They remained inactive in stasis lock at the base of a volcano until 1984, when volcanic activity shook them back on-line. The war began again, but without reinforcements or connection to Cybertron, Megatron and his Decepticons were eventually defeated and taken prisoner by the Autobots. Mirage and the rest of the Transformers were prepared to fly back to Cybertron in a new spacecraft, the ''[[Ark II]]'', when it exploded on its maiden voyage, leaving them all believed dead.

Not so. Most of the Transformers had been salvaged by a mercenary named [[Lazarus]], who spent the next few years repairing and reprogramming the Cybertronians to use as weapons of mass destruction at his command. Optimus Prime was reactivated by the United States military to oppose Lazarus, and he in turn used the power of the Matrix to revive several other Autobots who had escaped Lazarus' salvage crews, including Mirage. After rescuing some of their number from the human mercenaries, Mirage and the Autobots had to race against time putting their friends back together after the Decepticons escaped to wreak havoc. What's worse, a mechanizing virus had been released by Megatron, turning organic life into inanimate mechanical matter. Mirage exhausted a good percentage of his energon reserves fighting back the tide of the virus, but the Autobots were eventually successful. {{storylink|Prime Directive}}

''Mirage was remarkably unhelpful during the war with the [[Keeper (species)|Keepers]]. After Optimus Prime was forced to give the Matrix over to Megatron as a debt of honor, Mirage sniped about the decision worse than any of the Autobots. His criticisms only got louder after a news report from [[Washington, D.C.]] made it clear that Megatron had found one of his warriors, the already mighty [[Omega Sentinel (G1)|Omega Sentinel]], who could actually wield the power of the Matrix directly. Now that Prime had actually strengthened their enemies as well as weakening the Autobots, Mirage just wouldn't shut up about it. The final straw was when [[Franklin Townsend]], a crazed augment working for the Keepers, idly strolled into the Ark, took over control of [[Bluestreak]]'s mind, and made his getaway. Mirage was ready to brazenly disobey Prime's orders and charge right after Bluestreak, until Optimus physically slammed him into a wall and forced him to obey his commanding officer. ''

''When you're being so much of a dick that the legendary patience of Optimus Prime runs out, it's time to rein it in, Mirage. {{storylink|Fusion (novel)|Fusion}}''

When [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] came to Earth and announced that the Autobot/Decepticon wars were over and that the two factions had been united, Mirage was one of the first to fall in with the new regime. The rest of the Autobots were wary of this development, and so a few (especially [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]]) considered Mirage a traitor. {{storylink|Brothers' Burden}} Mirage quickly realigned himself with the Autobot cause when Shockwave's true plan was revealed, and Cliffjumper seemed to forgive him, as Mirage had saved Cliffjumper from [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] by sneaking up on him invisibly. {{storylink|Revelation (War and Peace)|Revelation}}

Unfortunately for Mirage, the Autobots' acting commander Prowl soon came to the conclusion that they needed to return to Earth and establish a more significant beach-head there for the future. Mirage tried to argue against the idea, as he was more than thrilled to finally be back home on Cybertron, but then [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] cut in and reminded Mirage that Shockwave's united government had sold off his riches and property while he was gone. Ooooh—burn. {{storylink|Atonement}} The Autobots readied themselves for the return mission on a new shuttle, and began construction of Autobot City upon their arrival on Earth. {{storylink|The Route of All Evil}}

===Devil's Due ''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers'' comics===
[[Image:GIJoevsTF4_Mirage_Ferret.jpg|thumb|left|250px|]]
[[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] found Mirage's holo-projector aboard the ''Ark'', and used it to make a better holographic driver for himself than [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] could. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 2}}

Meanwhile, Mirage was among the dormant Transformers discovered by [[Cobra]], reprogrammed for nefarious purposes, and given new alternate modes (Mirage now transformed into a Cobra [[Ferret]]). Upon being freed from Cobra's control by Wheeljack, Mirage's group located Optimus Prime and helped fight back against the newly freed Decepticons. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 4}} He later stood watch as the damaged Prime was formulating a plan to defeat Megatron. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 5}}

{{-}}

===Dreamwave ''Transformers/G.I. Joe'' comics===
Mirage was apparently among the Autobots awakened on the [[Fera Islands]] in 1939, as Optimus Prime mentioned that he had been killed in the battle against [[Cobra]]. {{storylink|The Iron Fist}}

===IDW comics continuity===
Mirage was a suspect in the assassination attempts on [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]], as he was one of only four Autobots present on the [[Autobot Orbital Command Hub|Hub]] during both attacks. He and two of the other Autobots were cleared when it was discovered that a mind-controlled [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] was the true culprit. {{storylink|Spotlight: Blaster}}

A year later, he delivered information to the Autobots that there was a power-struggle among the Decepticons, information that turned out to be false and drew Optimus and an Autobot team (including the former ''[[Ark-19]]'' crew) into a hideous ambush that left them trapped on Cybertron. Before dumping them on Cybertron, Megatron revealed that there had been a willing traitor collaborator involved in his trap, and Mirage was the prime suspect {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 7}} with everyone but [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] and [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] believing he'd betrayed them to the Decepticons. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 4}}

It's not all bad, though; he got to use his invisibility trick to sneak up on [[Kup (G1)|Kup]]'s crew when Jazz was trying to prove his command skills. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 5}} Not long after, a raging Ironhide dragged him into a corner and beat him half to death and ripped off his Autobot badge. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 7}}

It was eventually revealed that [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] had been the real traitor, and Ironhide tried to apologize to Mirage. Mirage wouldn't accept his apology, however, leaving his badge off out of spite and warning Ironhide against ever talking to him again. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 9}} However, despite his harsh words, Mirage came to Ironhide's rescue during a [[Insecticon swarm|swarm]] attack, urging his comrade to save himself. Ironhide refused, and instead stayed behind to help Mirage fight the monstrosities. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 10}} After the Autobots were saved by [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]], they returned to Earth and fought against the Decepticons in [[New York City]]. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 11}}

Three years later, the Autobots were still squatting on Earth at Optimus Prime's insistence, keeping the humans "safe" from the Decepticons while being hunted by those very same humans. Mirage was present when [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] finally went stir-crazy and demanded some action. That "action" led to [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]]'s death and Prime surrendering himself to the human robot-hunters, [[Skywatch]]. {{storylink|...For All Mankind}} Along with [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]], [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]], and several others, Mirage joined Hot Rod in breaking off from what remained of the Autobot forces to leave the planet of mud and water behind. At first, they tried convincing Omega Supreme to leave with them, but Hot Rod's speeches failed to overcome Omega's loyalty to Optimus Prime. Instead, they found unlikely allies in a pack of roving Decepticons led by [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]]. {{storylink|New Arrivals, Old Encounters}} With the additional manpower, they began construction of a new space cruiser to leave Earth forever, despite the unease the new allies had for one another. {{storylink|A Rude Awakening}} Mirage busied himself checking a datapad for the new flight control systems. {{storylink|Seasons in Flight}}

Unsurprisingly, the Decepticons eventually betrayed Hot Rod's team and attempted to take the space cruiser for themselves. Mirage and the others fought against their new creation, [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]], and eventually brought him down. Mirage was one of several Autobots who were injured in the battle, and was repaired by Skywatch technicians. {{storylink|Earthworks}}

{{note|The events of ''Spotlight: Mirage'' possibly take place in an alternate/unknown continuity.}}
[[Image:SpotlightMirage trappedHound.jpg|right|200px|thumb|This didn't actually happen. Or did it? No, it didn't.]]
Mirage was haunted repeatedly by dreams of being a Decepticon. Or actually ''is'' a Decepticon from another universe who, after helping kill the last Autobots, got blown back through time and space to the main universe. Or via [[Zodiac]] energy has gained flashbacks of an alternate Decepticon Mirage. God knows what's going on there. {{storylink|Spotlight: Mirage}}
{{-}}

===''Henkei! Henkei!'' pack-in comic===

{{storylink|Mirage's Rebirth}}

{{charstubfiction}}

===''Henkei! Henkei!'' Bun Bun manga===

{{storylink|Enter! The Transformers}} {{storylink|The Emperor of Destruction Appears!}} {{storylink|Kingdom of Giants}} {{storylink|The Enemy from the Arctic}} {{storylink|Wataru's Power}}

{{charstubfiction}}

{{-}}

==Toys==
{{picsneeded|G2 Go Bot, Universe Spychanger, Binaltech}}
===Generation 1===
[[Image:G1Mirage toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|I don't need to be street-legal; I'm rich.]]
*'''Mirage''' (Autobot Car, 1984/1986/1991)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''07'''
**''Accessories:'' "Rocket-Dart Hunting Rifle", missile launcher, 3 missiles

: Mirage was part of the original 1984 Autobot car assortment. His mold was originally used for a ''[[Diaclone]]'' F-1 Ligier JS-11 racer. The toy was specifically designed to work with the launcher mechanism contained in the Optimus Prime / Battle Convoy trailer. This toy is easily broken at the waist pivot. The labels on the toy are references to several real-world companies. The largest name, Citanes, is a deliberate corruption of Gitanes, a French cigarette company. (Quite unusual for a child's toy, but not the only [[Marlboor Wheeljack|cigarette reference in ''Diaclone'']].) The toy included Gitanes' logo of a dancing gypsy woman on what ends up as Mirage's belt in robot form. "Ligier" is the name of the company that manufactured the JS-11 chassis and fielded the team, traditionally wearing 25 and 26 on the F1 grid, while "elf" is a reference to a French oil company that has since merged with TotalFina to become TotalFinaElf.

: In 1986, he was made available as a mail-away item (as he was no longer shipping to retail shelves) in multiple offers, including a [[Digital Doom on the Highway to Destruction]] flier packed with most boxed ''Transformers'' toys. He cost $8 and two [[robot points]]. In Japan Mirage was also included in the 1986 ''Goodbye Convoy'' [[Giftset|gift set]]. This was the final release of the mold, making Mirage the only one of the original Autobots not to have been reissued in some form.

: Hasbro and/or Takara have announced that the mold for Mirage is [[Mold#Issues with Reissues|either lost or damaged]], so a reissue is unlikely. This presumably excludes the molds obtained by [[Knockoff|certain Chinese companies]] to produce several Mirage "perfect" [[Bootleg|bootlegs]] in a variety of flavors including original, clear, smoke, and red, based on the ultra-rare version from the [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Diaclone Powered Convoy]] giftset.

===Generation 2===
* '''Mirage''' (Go-Bot, 1995)
**''Accessories:'' Gun

: Mirage was released in 1995 as a black and yellow recolor of the [[Go-Bot (G2)|Go-Bot]] [[Double Clutch]]. He was also planned to be released as a flipchanger, but the ''Generation 2'' line was canceled to make way for ''[[Beast Wars (toyline)|Beast Wars]]''. The unreleased mold was first used in ''[[Machine Wars]]''.

: This mold was also used to make ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Mirage (RID)|Mirage]].
{{-}}

===Machine Wars===
[[Image:Mwmirage.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Gah! I'm teal! Somebody recolor me, please!]]
* '''Mirage''' (Basic, 1997)
**''Accessories:'' 2-part rifle

: Mirage's form in ''[[Machine Wars]]'' transforms into a blue and white Indycar. Like the other Machine Wars basics, the toy is a flipchanger (having a one-step, spring-loaded transformation), and his weapons are hidden in his alt mode. Unlike most of the ''Machine Wars'' toys, the head looks very similar to his Generation 1 form. This is because the mold was originally designed as Mirage for ''[[Generation 2 (toyline)|Generation 2]]''.

: This mold was also used to make ''Machine Wars'' [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] and ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Skid-Z (RID)|Skid-Z]].

{{-}}
===Robot Masters===
[[Image:RMRijie toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Phew. Thanks.]]
* '''Rijie''' (Basic, 2004)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''RM-03'''
**''Accessories:'' 2-part "Molecular Bonding Gun", "JS Laser Gun"

: ''[[Robot Masters (franchise)|Robot Masters]]'' "Rijie" used the ''Machine Wars'' Mirage mold, but in a much more [[Generation 1 (toyline)|Generation 1]]-based coloration and deco. He also came with an extra chrome-silver "JS Laser Gun" (like the other bonus weapons of ''Robot Masters'', it is suspected to be a mold originally developed yet ultimately unused by the cut-short ''[[Microman]] LED Powers'' line).

: Because of legal reasons, "Ligier" could not be used for the name of the ''Robot Masters'' toy, so "Rijie", which has the same pronunciation in Japan, was used instead. Curiously, the toy's instructions still identify it as "Ligier".

{{-}}
===Alternators===
[[Image:AlternatorsMirage toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|This toy is clearly black, red, and silver. You're just deluding yourself.]]
* '''Mirage''' (Alternator, 2006)
**''Alternator ID number:'' '''22'''
**''Accessories:'' Engine/tonfa weapons

: ''[[Alternators]]'' Mirage transforms into a finely detailed 1:24 scale replica of a Ford GT, featuring opening doors, engine bay and trunk, with a realistic interior. As with most Alternators, his car body is mostly unpainted, but the metallic-flake deep blue plastic makes this hard to see.

: Featuring an innovative, different robot mode, Mirage is not a straight re-interpretation of the original Mirage's robot mode, due to the completely different types of vehicles. But coincidentally the Ford GT's hood features a shape that echoes a F1-type racing car's nose and front spoiler. His engine's supercharger forms two separate tonfa weapons that can also be interpreted as guns.

: Mirage was retooled into [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Hot Rodimus]] for the ''[[Kiss Players (toyline)|Kiss Players]]'' line, which was further redecoed into ''Alternators'' Rodimus. Later in 2007, he was redecoed in clear plastic colours to represent his 'invisibility mode' as an [[e-Hobby]] exclusive in the ''[[Binaltech]]'' line.

===Universe===
*'''Mirage''' (Spy Changer, 2006)
**''Accessories:'' Gun

: For ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'', Mirage is identical to the last Kay-Bee [[exclusive]] redeco of ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots In Disguise]]'' [[Mirage (RID)|Mirage]], transforming into a translucent green Lola Indy car. He was available only on an individual card from discount chains like The Dollar Store.
{{-}}

===Classics===
[[Image:Classics Mirage toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Applied to [[Revoltech]] club; rejected.]]
*'''Mirage''' (Classics Deluxe, 2006)
**''Accessories:'' Gun/front spoiler
:''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]'' Mirage was released in November 2006 in wave 2, along with the [[shortpacked]] [[Grimlock (G1)/toys|Grimlock]]. He transforms into a closed-canopy Formula racer concept car. Mirage's paint details contain a few ''Transformers'' in-jokes in the form of sponsor logos such as "[[Sparkplug Witwicky|Witwicky Sparkplugs]]" and "[[Lithone (planet)|Lithonian]] Drivetrain." Additionally, his racing number is still 26, as it was on the original toy. Other logos, which include "Plasma Injection Energy" and "F.P. Racing," refer to "pie" and the initials of [[Joe Kyde|the deco artist]]'s super-secret non-gay friendship cult, respectively.

:The front detaches to become a handheld electro-disruptor weapon which is said to be able to create illusions and allow him to appear invisible. (This is a reconciliation of Mirage's illusion-creation ability from his original tech spec profile and his invisibility power from the animated series.) He is ''extremely'' posable.

: This mold was also used to make [[Fracture]] and ''[[Universe (2008 franchise)|Universe]]'' [[Drag Strip]].

{{-}}


[[Image:BotCon2007freeMirage.jpg|right|300px|thumb|I leave your toilets fresh and blue everytime you flush!]]
*'''Hologram Mirage''' (BotCon, 2007)
**''Accessories:'' Gun/front spoiler

:A redeco of Classics Mirage in translucent and opaque blue, Mirage was available only as a "freebie" gift to attendees at BotCon 2007.

{{-}}

===Binaltech===
* '''Rijie''' (e-Hobby exclusive, 2007)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''BT-18'''
**''Accessories:'' Engine/tonfa weapons

:Rijie is a redeco of ''Alternators'' Mirage using mostly transparent plastic. The toy was exclusively available from [[e-Hobby]] in September 2007.

:Even though Takara had briefly contemplated releasing a [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rodimus]] (Hot Rod) retool of Alternators Mirage as the next ''Binaltech'' toy after [[Ginrai]] (both toys would ultimately come out as part of the ''[[Kiss Players (toyline)|Kiss Players]]'' line instead), they apparently never created any [[die-cast]] molds for the Ford GT sculpt. To justify the absence of diecast parts from a ''Binaltech'' toy, Takara decided to use clear plastic parts to represent an "invisible" mode, officially called an "Electro-Disrupter" {{sic}} mode on the packaging.

{{-}}

===Henkei! Henkei!===
[[Image:Henkei Mirage toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Sculpted in 2006. Decoed in the late 70s.]]
*'''Ligier''' (Deluxe, 2008)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''C-04'''
**''Accessories:'' Gun/front spoiler

: ''[[Henkei! Henkei! (toyline)|Henkei! Henkei!]] Transformers'' Ligier is a redeco of ''Classics'' Mirage. In an effort to make him appear more accurate to Mirage's cartoon appearances, Ligier lacks most of the sponsorship tampographs that appeared on ''Classics'' Mirage. As with all ''Henkei'' toys, he lacks the heat-sensitive rubsign seen on the ''Classics'' version, but features [[Vacuum metallizing|vacuum-metallized]] parts: his rear spoiler and his front spoiler.

{{-}}
[[Image:HenkeiElectroDisruptorLigier.jpg|thumb|200px|Clear, black, '''and''' chrome? It's like he's a living embodiment of Takara itself!]]
*'''Electro Disruptor Ligier''' (Deluxe, 2009)

: Electro Disruptor Ligier is a translucent plastic version of ''Henkei'' Ligier offered as a mail-away exclusive to those who have bought the book [[Transformers Generations 2009|Transformers Generations 2009 Volume 1]].

: This toy was repurposed as "[[Shattered Glass (franchise)|Shattered Glass]]" [[Mirage (SG)|Mirage]].

{{-}}

==Merchandise==
===Choro-Q===
*'''Ligier''' (2000)

:''[[Choro-Q]]'' Ligier is a mostly translucent [[redeco]] of the Honda Jordan F1 toy from Takara's ''Choro-Q'' toyline of non-transforming [[super-deformed]] vehicles. He was an [[exclusive]] at [[BotCon]] Japan 2000, and features a [[pull-back motor]] and a rear license plate that reads "BotCon Japan 2000".

:Along with ''Choro-Q'' [[Optimus Prime (G1)/merchandise|Convoy]] and [[Megatron (G1)/toys|Megatron]], Ligier was given out randomly to convention attendees. Each toy was limited to 1000 pieces.

===Robot Heroes===
[[Image:RH Mirage vs Starscream.jpg|right|200px|thumb|I'm too rich to be cute.]]
* '''Mirage Vs Starscream''' (2007)

:Packaged with [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]], Mirage is a two-inch-high robot sculpted in super deformed style with articulation at the head and shoulders. The toy has a sculpted missile launcher, like the original character, but oddly it is resting on the figure's back instead of the shoulder. This mold was later redecod into ''Hologram'' Mirage.

{{-}}
[[Image:Hologram Robot Hero Mirage.jpg|right|150px|thumb|What he said.]]
* '''Decepticon Sneak Attack''' (2007)

:Hologram Mirage is a recolor of the two-pack Mirage cast in transparent blue with slightly different paint details. Most notably, the Autobot symbols on his arms have been replaced with part of the word "Citanes", to evoke the original toy. Mirage was packed with ''Metallic Finish'' Optimus Prime, ''Metallic Finish'' Megatron, Cliffjumper, and Skywarp. This pack was sold exclusively in Walmart, and Walmart.com.

{{-}}

==Trivia==
*Mirage is absent from the fictional events of 2005 and 2006 without explanation; a storyboarded scene from ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' featuring Mirage was cut from the finished film. Amidst the transformation of [[Autobot City]], Mirage was to ambush the Insecticon [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]] and then be fired upon by Megatron. Whether or not this would have killed Mirage is not made clear, but given the film's casual body count, it seems highly probable.
*Mirage has been a traitor/suspected traitor in nearly every continuity he's popped up in. You just can't trust those coastal elite.

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* [http://www.toybin.org/search.php?q=1984+Autobot+Mirage ToyBin Mirage Toy Gallery]
* [http://www.tfu.info/1984/Autobot/Mirage/mirage.htm Mirage at TFU.info]
* [http://www.ntfa.net/universe/english/index.php?act=view&char=Mirage Mirage's Universe profile at NTFA.net]

[[Category:Alternators]]
[[Category:Autobots]]
[[Category:Classics characters]]
[[Category:Convention exclusives]]
[[Category:Decepticons]]
[[Category:Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category:Generation 2 characters]]
[[Category:Go-Bots]]
[[Category:Headmasters characters]]
[[Category: Henkei! Henkei! characters]]
[[Category:Machine Wars characters]]
[[Category:Mail order items]]
[[Category:Robot Heroes]]
[[Category:Robot Masters characters]]
[[Category:Saboteurs]]
[[Category:Spies]]

Mirage (G1)

2010-06-13T01:22:05Z

76.180.61.89: /* The Transformers cartoon */

{{picsneeded|Fiction appearances, toys}}
{{factions|autobot|autobotg2}}
{{disambig3|Mirage}}
:''Mirage is an [[Autobot]] from the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:Mirageg1.jpg|right|300px|thumb|"The ship was... full."]]
'''Mirage''' is what humans call "old money." Before the war, he was a member of affluent Cybertronian society, with his own large estate and high-priced [[Mirage's friends|friends]]. He enjoyed the finer things in life: vintage [[Energon (fuel)|energon]], swank evening events, and [[turbofox]] hunts on the grounds. But when the war started, he was forced to choose sides and found himself banded with a group of commoners he didn't really understand.

Some of the other Autobots don't trust Mirage. He feels the war, even after all these millions of years, is beneath him. War is not, after all, how civilized, erudite beings conduct themselves. He often questions the Autobots' violent means, and not-so-secretly hopes they and the Decepticons can get along. Because of this, he has been labelled by a few others as a Decepticon sympathizer. Still, he sided with the Autobots for a reason, and he is there for the Autobots when they need him.

Although the details vary by continuity, Mirage has the ability to create illusions which typically either render him invisible or make him appear to be somewhere he isn't.

He sounds like [[wikipedia:Dean Martin|Dean Martin]].

:''Japanese name:'' '''Ligier''' or '''Rijie''' (リジェ ''Rije'')
:''Hungarian name:'' '''Délibáb''' ("Mirage")
:''Italian name:'' '''Mistero''' ("Mystery")
:''Portuguese name:'' '''Miragem''' ("Mirage")
:''Chinese name (Taiwan):'' '''Hǎi-shr-shèn-lóu''' (海市蜃樓, "Mirage") / '''Hàun-yǐng''' (幻影, "Phantom")

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Generation 1====
{{noteukonly}}
[[Image:Miragebluestreakfirst.jpg|left|250px|thumb|Mirage tells the story of how he got his name every five minutes.]]
Mirage was one of the Autobots on board the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] when it crashed, and was subsequently reactivated in 1984. At first, Mirage was reluctant to full-on attack his Decepticon opponents, instead trying to reason with them. However, after a battle with the relentless [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]], Mirage learned that sometimes diplomacy is not an option. {{storylink|The Last Stand}}

[[Image:Mirageg1enemywithin.jpg|right|125px|thumb|Punk'd!]]
''During an accident on the Ark, [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] suffered an extreme neuro-shock, causing him to rebel and turn against his teammates. Mirage helped the Autobots hunt him down and tranquilize him. This same accident also amplified Mirage's ability to create illusions, which he later used to trick the Decepticons into believing that a duel between Brawn and [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] ended with Brawn's death. The Decepticons felt totally stupid.'' {{storylink|The Enemy Within!}}

In the wake of a disastrous mission to rescue [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]]'s captive head from the Decepticons, most of the Autobots were rendered inoperative. Mirage was one of a handful of Autobots who remained active, accompanying Optimus and various newer Autobots on several subsequent missions. {{storylink|Rock and Roll-Out!}} {{storylink|I, Robot-Master!}} {{storylink|Command Performances!}}

''Mirage lucked out during the Dinobot Hunt—he was assigned to B-Team, whose quarry, Snarl, was knocked out by the destruction of a human military base, leaving him inert and easy to capture.'' {{storylink|Dinobot Hunt!}}

Long after, he was blown to pieces by [[Octane]] during an Arctic battle arranged by [[Starscream (G1)| Starscream]]. He recovered in time to be destroyed again in [[New York City]] by Starscream himself (empowered by the [[Underbase]]). {{storylink|Dark Star (issue)|Dark Star}}

====Generation 2====
[[Image:Mirageg2die.jpg|left|120px|thumb|"Got to—" '''SPOOM!''']]
Disobeying [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]]'s orders, [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] led a covert team (which included Mirage) onto the [[Cybertronian (faction)|Cybertronian Empire]] ship ''[[Twilight (G2)|Twilight]]'' to defeat [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]] and his army of "evolved Decepticons". Grimlock's plan was an utter failure, ending in [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]]'s death and the Autobots' capture. Mirage was destroyed by enemy fire during the following prison break. {{storylink|Devices and Desires! (Marvel)|Devices and Desires!}}

{{-}}
====Classics====
{{note| The Classics comic takes place after the end of the original Marvel Comic, but in a new timeline that does not include the events of the Marvel UK-exclusive stories or Generation 2.}}
Having been revived (presumably by [[Nucleon]]), Mirage was the happiest of them all, until he saw just how badly his way of life was affected by warfare. Mirage found that ages of warfare had made him bitter. Eventually, he decided to join Optimus Prime in returning to Earth, and war with Megatron.<ref>Mirage Classics Profile, [[Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 13]]</ref>

His actions include evacuating [[Armored Robot Hunters|RUNTs]] and their pilots, holding [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] at gunpoint, and revealing that his illusion powers (in this continuity) now ''include'' invisibility. {{storylink|Crossing Over}}

He later secretly followed [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] to a meeting from his crew of the [[Graviton (Classics)|Graviton]]. Unfortunately, he tried to crash Starscream's meeting with [[Bug Bite (G1)|Bug Bite]]. [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]]'s infra-red sensors, and [[Weirdwolf]]'s keen nose allowed the Decepticons to find him, and he was gift-wrapped for Megatron. When the Gravitron crew led by Grimlock and [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] attacked the Decepticon base, Mirage was rescued by [[Strongarm (Classics)|Strongarm]], [[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]], [[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]], and [[Elita One]]. {{storylink|Games of Deception}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====''The Transformers'' cartoon====
:''Voice actor:'' [[Frank Welker]] (English), [[Takurō Kitagawa]] (Japanese)
[[Image:MTMTE2 Mirage talking to Spike.jpg|right|240px|thumb|The sensors had to place Spike's head there for a reason.]]
Mirage was part of the bridge crew of the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] when it crash-landed on Earth four million years ago. A volcanic eruption in 1984 awakened the Ark's inhabitants, including Mirage, who was reformatted by [[Teletraan I (G1)|Teletraan I]] to have a terrestrial alternate mode of a Formula-1 racer. His first mission came when the Autobots rolled out to stop the Decepticons attacking an oil rig. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 1}} After the battle, he got to show off his invisibility power to [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]]. Following another failed battle at [[Sherman Dam]], he suggested they simply leave Earth to the Decepticons and return to Cybertron, a suggestion soundly rejected by [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]]. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 2}}

[[Image:MTMtE Part3 Mirage HALOjump.jpg|left|200px|thumb]]
At the [[Ruby Crystal Mines of Burma]], when Optimus was caught in an explosion, Mirage helped right him. He expressed hope that with the Decepticons perished in the explosion, they'd be able to return to Cybertron, but his optimism was quashed a few moments later when their foe emerged, functional and with more energy to fuel their [[Victory (ship)|new star cruiser]]. While guarding Ravage, Mirage gave Hound the idea to spring a trap on the Decepticons using a holographic rocket base. Unfortunately the Decepticons saw through the plan and raided the real rocket base, attaining the rest of the energy they needed. During the final Autobot operation to try and prevent the launch of the Decepticon cruiser, Mirage used his cloaking ability to sneak aboard. While the Decepticons were squabbling, he uncloaked and opened fire, blasting away at the ship's controls. He then bailed from the doomed cruiser, floating back to Earth's surface on a parasail as the Decepticons crashed into the ocean. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 3}}

After [[Chip Chase]] was kidnapped by the Decepticons who were after the antimatter formula the boy had memorised, Hound and Mirage utilised their respective powers to sneak into the antimatter laboratory. They were able to rescue Chip, but the Decepticons had managed to get the formula and use it to create Energon. Mirage subsequently helped defend Autobot Headquarters. {{storylink|Roll for It}} Mirage rolled out to protect Autobot Headerquarters while [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] and [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] worked to save Prime's life, after the Autobot leader was badly damaged in a Decepticon attack. {{storylink|Divide and Conquer}} He took part in the construction of the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobot]]s... and then had to try to stop them when they ran wild. He, [[Bluestreak]] and [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] sealed the three Dinobots in a cave, but were mighty grateful when, after almost all of the Autobots were captured by the Decepticons, the Dinobots were released to come to the rescue. {{storylink|S.O.S. Dinobots}}

[[Image:CountdowntoExtinction Mirage firing missile.jpg|right|210px|thumb]]
When Megatron was using [[hypno-chip]]ped humans to load Energon onto their shuttle for transport to Cybertron, Mirage used his invisibility to sneak on board and order the humans to start unloading the Energon again. He was blasted in the back a short time later by [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]. {{storylink|The Ultimate Doom, Part 3}} When the Autobots were caught in quicksand while pursuing the Decepticons, Mirage used his shoulder missile to shoot down [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]]. {{storylink|Countdown to Extinction (episode)|Countdown to Extinction}} Mirage turned out with the other Autobots to watch Optimus and Megatron engage in single combat as per Cybertronian law. To their horror, Optimus lost, but they later discovered that Megatron had cheated, so the results were nullified. {{storylink|Heavy Metal War}}

[[Image:CityOfSteel Mirage carrying alligatorcon.jpg|thumb|left|210px]]
Mirage rolled out to attack Megatron's [[Solar Needle]] and rescue [[Gears (G1)|Gears]], but didn't play much role in the battle. {{storylink|Changing Gears}} He was on Ratchet's team, entering the sewers of [[New York City]] in an attempt to rescue Optimus. After tangling with an [[Alligatorcon]], they found Prime... in pieces. The Alligatorcon had been built from Optimus's parts, and Mirage, Ratchet and Hound had to capture it so Ratchet could rebuild their leader. Once Optimus had been put back together, they proceeded to the surface and battled Decepticons, [[battle taxi]]s and Prime's own severed arm. {{storylink|City of Steel}}

[[Image:Traitor Mirage cerebro shell implant.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
The spotlight shone on Mirage again when [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] suspected him of disloyalty. The discovery of a Decepticon installation in a sector Mirage had recently scouted caused Cliffjumper to leap the incorrect conclusion that Mirage had concealed the information and was a traitor to the Autobots. During a battle with the Decepticons at the site, Mirage was injured, but managed to rip a Decepticon [[Insignia|seal]] off [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]. Mirage risked the trust of his comrades by sneaking away to perform a plan of his own, framing the Decepticons for stealing [[Energon cube|Energon cubes]] from the [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]]. Spotted carrying the cubes by Cliffjumper, Mirage's guilt seemed all but confirmed, and before he could reveal his innocence, he was captured and brainwashed by one of [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]]'s mind-controlling [[Cerebro-shell|cerebro-shells]]. Under Bombshell's control, Mirage led the Autobots into an ambush, but at the battle’s end, the assorted manipulations were revealed and Cliffjumper apologized to Mirage. {{storylink|Traitor}}

[[Image:AutobotRun Jazz Mirage vehicle modes.jpg|thumb|left|240px]]
Mirage took part in a charity race organised by the Autobots. While they raced and performed stunts, the Autobots were affected by Megatron's latest invention, the [[Transfixatron]], which locked them in their vehicle modes. They were herded by the Decepticons to a ghost town, where the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]]s had created a machine to destroy them. It was only through an intervention of Ratchet and Wheeljack's counter invention that they were saved. {{storylink|The Autobot Run}}

[[Image:EntertheNightbird invisible Mirage.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Maybe this would be a good time to practice my mime act...]]
Mirage came with the other Autobots when they were hired by [[Doctor Fujiyama the Famous Scientist]] to protect [[Nightbird (G1)|his latest invention]] when it was being unveiled. When Decepticons attacked, Mirage became invisible and attacked Soundwave. Megatron offered to make Mirage disappear for good, but Optimus Prime saw to it that it wouldn't come true. After the Decepticons made off with Nightbird, Mirage and Ratchet insisted that [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] stay behind at Autobot base for repairs. As Brawn and [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] were being repaired, Optimus detected an intruder. Mirage went to investigate, only to be beaten up by a Decepticon-reprogrammed Nightbird. Mirage pursued her with the other Autobots. When they caught up with her, Mirage became invisible in order to return Optimus Prime's laser rifle undetected, giving him the advantage. {{storylink|Enter the Nightbird}}

When Mirage and the other Autobots found they mysteriously had two Optimus Primes, the duo were subjected to a series of inconclusive tests. Before any further testing could be done, they had to roll out to a crevasse filled with [[korlonium crystal]]s to investigate strange readings. During the battle with the Decepticons that followed, the real Prime's identity was soon revealed. {{storylink|A Prime Problem}} Mirage was part of [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]]'s team when they stumbled on the Decepticons' drilling operation. As [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] blasted him off a cliff, Mirage became invisible so the Decepticons would "never find [his] pieces". Of course, he survived and he and Sunstreaker used his grappling hook to take down Devastator. Back at Headquarters, a plan was hatched to plant [[dominator disc]]s on the Constructicons. Mirage took part, planting two of the discs at once, and Devastator was soon under Autobot control. Alas, it didn't last long — while they were trying to stop the Decepticons drilling to the Earth's core, Megatron retook control of the combiner. {{storylink|The Core}}

Mirage was at Headquarters when [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] and [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] reported the discovery of [[Dinobot Island (G1)|Dinobot Island]]. {{storylink|Dinobot Island, Part 1}} Through a cunning plan on Megatron's part, the Autobots were found guilty of stealing energy and forced to leave Earth in a spaceship supplied by [[Shawn Berger]]. {{storylink|Megatron's Master Plan, Part 1}} They soon discovered that the spacecraft was locked on course to the [[Sun]]. Through the heroic efforts of Chip Chase and bungling of [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]], as well as the use of [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] and [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]]'s force fields, the Autobots returned to Earth, where the Decepticons had already revealed their true nature. {{storylink|Megatron's Master Plan, Part 2}}

[[Image:DesertionDinobots1 Mirage steals fusion cannon.jpg|thumb|left|240px]]
During an attempt by the Decepticons to steal the plans to the [[Ultra Plane]], Mirage used his invisibility to steal Megatron's [[fusion cannon]] right off the Decepticon leader's arm. A brief tug-of-war ensued over the weapon, which Mirage lost, but Megatron retreated in the end anyhow. Later, as the Dinobots were being repaired after another battle, Mirage reminisced about how great Cybertron was. When [[Cybertonium]] depletion started affecting all of the Transformers, Mirage's invisibility power went on the fritz — instead of making him invisible, it merely altered his color scheme slightly. Unfortunately he didn't find this out until after he tried to sneak up on [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] and was promptly blasted into a wall. {{storylink|Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 1}} The Autobots' condition worsened, until they were unable to move. They remained this way until the Dinobots, Spike and [[Carly]] managed to retrieve more Cybertonium from Cybertron. {{storylink|Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 2}}

[[Image:GoldenLagoon Mirage reports to Autobots.jpg|thumb|right|220px]]
Mirage rolled out for [[Haley Observatory]] when Megatron stole the [[Voltronic Galaxer]], but went missing somewhere along the way, and didn't arrive with the rest of the group. {{storylink|Blaster Blues}} He was part of an Autobot team who faced [[electrum]]-plated Decepticons with little success. He had to retreat back to [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]]'s position for reinforcements. When even Omega fell before the Decepticons, Mirage returned to Headquarters to break the news, and [[Teletraan I (G1)|Teletraan I]] soon worked out how the Decepticons had become invincible. Soon the Autobots had found the electrum pool and, coating themselves, were able to defeat the Decepticons. {{storylink|The Golden Lagoon}} After a number of Autobots were abducted by big game hunter [[Lord Chumley]], Mirage was present at Headquarters when Cosmos finally located the missing Autobots. {{storylink|Prime Target}} He also helped coat the [[Statue of Liberty]] with [[corrostop]], Perceptor's latest invention. {{storylink|Cosmic Rust (episode)|Cosmic Rust}}

Mirage was among the team of five Autobots who disguised themselves as the [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]], with Mirage's alternate mode making him the perfect choice to masquerade as [[Drag Strip]]. Penetrating the Decepticon camp, the Autobots ran into trouble when the real Stunticons arrived, trying to prove their identities by forming [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]]. With a combination of [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]]'s magnetic powers and Mirage’s illusion-creating ability, the Autobots were able to appear as Menasor too. Though the deception was soon revealed, they were still able to thwart the Decepticons’ plans. {{storylink|Masquerade}}

{{note|An unused scene from the storyboard for [[The Transformers: The Movie]] showed Mirage wounded (possibly killed) by Megatron after getting back at Bombshell for [[Traitor|jeopardizing his career]]. Given the high body count, his death is still likely.}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====

=====''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' comic=====

Mirage was among the Autobots stationed at [[Ark (G1)|Autobot headquarters]] in [[Arizona]] when [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] and the Decepticons attacked. Though the Autobots were ultimately victorious, the entire attack was actually just a distraction so that [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] could go perform ''evil'' somewhere in Japan. {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 2}}

Mirage later appeared at the Autobots' newly constructed Japanese base, welcoming the small [[human]] boy, [[Kenji]]. {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 4}}

=====''Full Throttle Scramble Power!''=====
{{storylink|Full Throttle Scramble Power!}}

=====''Robot Masters'' pack-in comics=====

=====''Robot Masters'' online comics=====
{{charstubfiction}}

=====''Story of Binaltech''=====
Mirage volunteered for an experimental new Binaltech upgrade that boosted the [[power chip rectifier]] in his revamped body to the Nth degree, making him permanently invisible thanks to his electro-disruptor. This proved to be key in a special mission conceived of by [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]]. Having uncovered several secrets from the files of the time-traveling [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]], the Autobots learned of a mysterious [[Large switch|switch]] hidden away on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] which, when pulled, would instantaneously immobilize all Transformers throughout the universe. Having lost Cybertron to [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s tyrannical rule and facing considerable odds in the Sol System as well, Prime decided it was necessary to activate the switch in order to end the war.

With [[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]] and several [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] [[GT System|GTs]] awaiting his signal as back-up, Mirage invisibly infiltrated Decepticon-controlled Cybertron and made his way to the switch. After throwing the switch, though, Mirage was surprised to find that he was still mobile. It seemed the Binaltech warriors (both Autobot and Decepticon) were significantly different enough from regular Transformers to be unaffected by the immobilization wave. With the Autobots now vastly outnumbering the Decepticons still in operation, the tide of the war had irreparably shifted. {{storylink|Kill Switch}}

=====''The Headmasters'' cartoon=====
[[Image:JHeadmasters01VariousGuys.jpg|thumb|200px|Combined screenshot used to avoid having to put up two tiny ones. Ignore the bottom!]]
Some time before the Transformers' war left Cybertron, Mirage engaged the Decepticons in battle with his comrades. {{storylink|Four Warriors Come out of the Sky}}

{{note|For whatever reason, this pre-title screen Cybertronian skirmish was left out of both the United Kingdom and Australian DVD releases of the ''Headmasters'' series.}}

{{-}}
===Dreamwave comics continuity===
{{notekeepers}}
Despite his misgiving about the war effort, Mirage's tenure with the Autobot cause dates back to the time of [[Sentinel Prime (G1)|Sentinel Prime]]. When Shockwave staged a disastrous offensive against [[Iacon]], Mirage was there defending the [[Decagon]] alongside Prowl and the other Autobot soldiers. {{storylink|The War Within issue 5}} During the Dark Ages, he continued serving under Prowl as part of the main Autobot faction at [[Virtue's Forum]], in the remains of Iacon. Alongside Jazz and [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]], he tried defending their prisoner, [[Blitzwing (G1)|Experiment D-43]], against the intruder known as [[The Fallen]], but failed miserably in the process. {{storylink|War Within: The Dark Ages}}

Four million years ago, Mirage crash-landed on the planet Earth aboard the shuttle known as the Ark, with more than two dozen of his fellow Autobots and Decepticons. They remained inactive in stasis lock at the base of a volcano until 1984, when volcanic activity shook them back on-line. The war began again, but without reinforcements or connection to Cybertron, Megatron and his Decepticons were eventually defeated and taken prisoner by the Autobots. Mirage and the rest of the Transformers were prepared to fly back to Cybertron in a new spacecraft, the ''[[Ark II]]'', when it exploded on its maiden voyage, leaving them all believed dead.

Not so. Most of the Transformers had been salvaged by a mercenary named [[Lazarus]], who spent the next few years repairing and reprogramming the Cybertronians to use as weapons of mass destruction at his command. Optimus Prime was reactivated by the United States military to oppose Lazarus, and he in turn used the power of the Matrix to revive several other Autobots who had escaped Lazarus' salvage crews, including Mirage. After rescuing some of their number from the human mercenaries, Mirage and the Autobots had to race against time putting their friends back together after the Decepticons escaped to wreak havoc. What's worse, a mechanizing virus had been released by Megatron, turning organic life into inanimate mechanical matter. Mirage exhausted a good percentage of his energon reserves fighting back the tide of the virus, but the Autobots were eventually successful. {{storylink|Prime Directive}}

''Mirage was remarkably unhelpful during the war with the [[Keeper (species)|Keepers]]. After Optimus Prime was forced to give the Matrix over to Megatron as a debt of honor, Mirage sniped about the decision worse than any of the Autobots. His criticisms only got louder after a news report from [[Washington, D.C.]] made it clear that Megatron had found one of his warriors, the already mighty [[Omega Sentinel (G1)|Omega Sentinel]], who could actually wield the power of the Matrix directly. Now that Prime had actually strengthened their enemies as well as weakening the Autobots, Mirage just wouldn't shut up about it. The final straw was when [[Franklin Townsend]], a crazed augment working for the Keepers, idly strolled into the Ark, took over control of [[Bluestreak]]'s mind, and made his getaway. Mirage was ready to brazenly disobey Prime's orders and charge right after Bluestreak, until Optimus physically slammed him into a wall and forced him to obey his commanding officer. ''

''When you're being so much of a dick that the legendary patience of Optimus Prime runs out, it's time to rein it in, Mirage. {{storylink|Fusion (novel)|Fusion}}''

When [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] came to Earth and announced that the Autobot/Decepticon wars were over and that the two factions had been united, Mirage was one of the first to fall in with the new regime. The rest of the Autobots were wary of this development, and so a few (especially [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]]) considered Mirage a traitor. {{storylink|Brothers' Burden}} Mirage quickly realigned himself with the Autobot cause when Shockwave's true plan was revealed, and Cliffjumper seemed to forgive him, as Mirage had saved Cliffjumper from [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] by sneaking up on him invisibly. {{storylink|Revelation (War and Peace)|Revelation}}

Unfortunately for Mirage, the Autobots' acting commander Prowl soon came to the conclusion that they needed to return to Earth and establish a more significant beach-head there for the future. Mirage tried to argue against the idea, as he was more than thrilled to finally be back home on Cybertron, but then [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] cut in and reminded Mirage that Shockwave's united government had sold off his riches and property while he was gone. Ooooh—burn. {{storylink|Atonement}} The Autobots readied themselves for the return mission on a new shuttle, and began construction of Autobot City upon their arrival on Earth. {{storylink|The Route of All Evil}}

===Devil's Due ''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers'' comics===
[[Image:GIJoevsTF4_Mirage_Ferret.jpg|thumb|left|250px|]]
[[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] found Mirage's holo-projector aboard the ''Ark'', and used it to make a better holographic driver for himself than [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] could. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 2}}

Meanwhile, Mirage was among the dormant Transformers discovered by [[Cobra]], reprogrammed for nefarious purposes, and given new alternate modes (Mirage now transformed into a Cobra [[Ferret]]). Upon being freed from Cobra's control by Wheeljack, Mirage's group located Optimus Prime and helped fight back against the newly freed Decepticons. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 4}} He later stood watch as the damaged Prime was formulating a plan to defeat Megatron. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 5}}

{{-}}

===Dreamwave ''Transformers/G.I. Joe'' comics===
Mirage was apparently among the Autobots awakened on the [[Fera Islands]] in 1939, as Optimus Prime mentioned that he had been killed in the battle against [[Cobra]]. {{storylink|The Iron Fist}}

===IDW comics continuity===
Mirage was a suspect in the assassination attempts on [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]], as he was one of only four Autobots present on the [[Autobot Orbital Command Hub|Hub]] during both attacks. He and two of the other Autobots were cleared when it was discovered that a mind-controlled [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] was the true culprit. {{storylink|Spotlight: Blaster}}

A year later, he delivered information to the Autobots that there was a power-struggle among the Decepticons, information that turned out to be false and drew Optimus and an Autobot team (including the former ''[[Ark-19]]'' crew) into a hideous ambush that left them trapped on Cybertron. Before dumping them on Cybertron, Megatron revealed that there had been a willing traitor collaborator involved in his trap, and Mirage was the prime suspect {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 7}} with everyone but [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] and [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] believing he'd betrayed them to the Decepticons. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 4}}

It's not all bad, though; he got to use his invisibility trick to sneak up on [[Kup (G1)|Kup]]'s crew when Jazz was trying to prove his command skills. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 5}} Not long after, a raging Ironhide dragged him into a corner and beat him half to death and ripped off his Autobot badge. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 7}}

It was eventually revealed that [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] had been the real traitor, and Ironhide tried to apologize to Mirage. Mirage wouldn't accept his apology, however, leaving his badge off out of spite and warning Ironhide against ever talking to him again. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 9}} However, despite his harsh words, Mirage came to Ironhide's rescue during a [[Insecticon swarm|swarm]] attack, urging his comrade to save himself. Ironhide refused, and instead stayed behind to help Mirage fight the monstrosities. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 10}} After the Autobots were saved by [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]], they returned to Earth and fought against the Decepticons in [[New York City]]. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 11}}

Three years later, the Autobots were still squatting on Earth at Optimus Prime's insistence, keeping the humans "safe" from the Decepticons while being hunted by those very same humans. Mirage was present when [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] finally went stir-crazy and demanded some action. That "action" led to [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]]'s death and Prime surrendering himself to the human robot-hunters, [[Skywatch]]. {{storylink|...For All Mankind}} Along with [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]], [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]], and several others, Mirage joined Hot Rod in breaking off from what remained of the Autobot forces to leave the planet of mud and water behind. At first, they tried convincing Omega Supreme to leave with them, but Hot Rod's speeches failed to overcome Omega's loyalty to Optimus Prime. Instead, they found unlikely allies in a pack of roving Decepticons led by [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]]. {{storylink|New Arrivals, Old Encounters}} With the additional manpower, they began construction of a new space cruiser to leave Earth forever, despite the unease the new allies had for one another. {{storylink|A Rude Awakening}} Mirage busied himself checking a datapad for the new flight control systems. {{storylink|Seasons in Flight}}

Unsurprisingly, the Decepticons eventually betrayed Hot Rod's team and attempted to take the space cruiser for themselves. Mirage and the others fought against their new creation, [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]], and eventually brought him down. Mirage was one of several Autobots who were injured in the battle, and was repaired by Skywatch technicians. {{storylink|Earthworks}}

{{note|The events of ''Spotlight: Mirage'' possibly take place in an alternate/unknown continuity.}}
[[Image:SpotlightMirage trappedHound.jpg|right|200px|thumb|This didn't actually happen. Or did it? No, it didn't.]]
Mirage was haunted repeatedly by dreams of being a Decepticon. Or actually ''is'' a Decepticon from another universe who, after helping kill the last Autobots, got blown back through time and space to the main universe. Or via [[Zodiac]] energy has gained flashbacks of an alternate Decepticon Mirage. God knows what's going on there. {{storylink|Spotlight: Mirage}}
{{-}}

===''Henkei! Henkei!'' pack-in comic===

{{storylink|Mirage's Rebirth}}

{{charstubfiction}}

===''Henkei! Henkei!'' Bun Bun manga===

{{storylink|Enter! The Transformers}} {{storylink|The Emperor of Destruction Appears!}} {{storylink|Kingdom of Giants}} {{storylink|The Enemy from the Arctic}} {{storylink|Wataru's Power}}

{{charstubfiction}}

{{-}}

==Toys==
{{picsneeded|G2 Go Bot, Universe Spychanger, Binaltech}}
===Generation 1===
[[Image:G1Mirage toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|I don't need to be street-legal; I'm rich.]]
*'''Mirage''' (Autobot Car, 1984/1986/1991)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''07'''
**''Accessories:'' "Rocket-Dart Hunting Rifle", missile launcher, 3 missiles

: Mirage was part of the original 1984 Autobot car assortment. His mold was originally used for a ''[[Diaclone]]'' F-1 Ligier JS-11 racer. The toy was specifically designed to work with the launcher mechanism contained in the Optimus Prime / Battle Convoy trailer. This toy is easily broken at the waist pivot. The labels on the toy are references to several real-world companies. The largest name, Citanes, is a deliberate corruption of Gitanes, a French cigarette company. (Quite unusual for a child's toy, but not the only [[Marlboor Wheeljack|cigarette reference in ''Diaclone'']].) The toy included Gitanes' logo of a dancing gypsy woman on what ends up as Mirage's belt in robot form. "Ligier" is the name of the company that manufactured the JS-11 chassis and fielded the team, traditionally wearing 25 and 26 on the F1 grid, while "elf" is a reference to a French oil company that has since merged with TotalFina to become TotalFinaElf.

: In 1986, he was made available as a mail-away item (as he was no longer shipping to retail shelves) in multiple offers, including a [[Digital Doom on the Highway to Destruction]] flier packed with most boxed ''Transformers'' toys. He cost $8 and two [[robot points]]. In Japan Mirage was also included in the 1986 ''Goodbye Convoy'' [[Giftset|gift set]]. This was the final release of the mold, making Mirage the only one of the original Autobots not to have been reissued in some form.

: Hasbro and/or Takara have announced that the mold for Mirage is [[Mold#Issues with Reissues|either lost or damaged]], so a reissue is unlikely. This presumably excludes the molds obtained by [[Knockoff|certain Chinese companies]] to produce several Mirage "perfect" [[Bootleg|bootlegs]] in a variety of flavors including original, clear, smoke, and red, based on the ultra-rare version from the [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Diaclone Powered Convoy]] giftset.

===Generation 2===
* '''Mirage''' (Go-Bot, 1995)
**''Accessories:'' Gun

: Mirage was released in 1995 as a black and yellow recolor of the [[Go-Bot (G2)|Go-Bot]] [[Double Clutch]]. He was also planned to be released as a flipchanger, but the ''Generation 2'' line was canceled to make way for ''[[Beast Wars (toyline)|Beast Wars]]''. The unreleased mold was first used in ''[[Machine Wars]]''.

: This mold was also used to make ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Mirage (RID)|Mirage]].
{{-}}

===Machine Wars===
[[Image:Mwmirage.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Gah! I'm teal! Somebody recolor me, please!]]
* '''Mirage''' (Basic, 1997)
**''Accessories:'' 2-part rifle

: Mirage's form in ''[[Machine Wars]]'' transforms into a blue and white Indycar. Like the other Machine Wars basics, the toy is a flipchanger (having a one-step, spring-loaded transformation), and his weapons are hidden in his alt mode. Unlike most of the ''Machine Wars'' toys, the head looks very similar to his Generation 1 form. This is because the mold was originally designed as Mirage for ''[[Generation 2 (toyline)|Generation 2]]''.

: This mold was also used to make ''Machine Wars'' [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] and ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Skid-Z (RID)|Skid-Z]].

{{-}}
===Robot Masters===
[[Image:RMRijie toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Phew. Thanks.]]
* '''Rijie''' (Basic, 2004)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''RM-03'''
**''Accessories:'' 2-part "Molecular Bonding Gun", "JS Laser Gun"

: ''[[Robot Masters (franchise)|Robot Masters]]'' "Rijie" used the ''Machine Wars'' Mirage mold, but in a much more [[Generation 1 (toyline)|Generation 1]]-based coloration and deco. He also came with an extra chrome-silver "JS Laser Gun" (like the other bonus weapons of ''Robot Masters'', it is suspected to be a mold originally developed yet ultimately unused by the cut-short ''[[Microman]] LED Powers'' line).

: Because of legal reasons, "Ligier" could not be used for the name of the ''Robot Masters'' toy, so "Rijie", which has the same pronunciation in Japan, was used instead. Curiously, the toy's instructions still identify it as "Ligier".

{{-}}
===Alternators===
[[Image:AlternatorsMirage toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|This toy is clearly black, red, and silver. You're just deluding yourself.]]
* '''Mirage''' (Alternator, 2006)
**''Alternator ID number:'' '''22'''
**''Accessories:'' Engine/tonfa weapons

: ''[[Alternators]]'' Mirage transforms into a finely detailed 1:24 scale replica of a Ford GT, featuring opening doors, engine bay and trunk, with a realistic interior. As with most Alternators, his car body is mostly unpainted, but the metallic-flake deep blue plastic makes this hard to see.

: Featuring an innovative, different robot mode, Mirage is not a straight re-interpretation of the original Mirage's robot mode, due to the completely different types of vehicles. But coincidentally the Ford GT's hood features a shape that echoes a F1-type racing car's nose and front spoiler. His engine's supercharger forms two separate tonfa weapons that can also be interpreted as guns.

: Mirage was retooled into [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Hot Rodimus]] for the ''[[Kiss Players (toyline)|Kiss Players]]'' line, which was further redecoed into ''Alternators'' Rodimus. Later in 2007, he was redecoed in clear plastic colours to represent his 'invisibility mode' as an [[e-Hobby]] exclusive in the ''[[Binaltech]]'' line.

===Universe===
*'''Mirage''' (Spy Changer, 2006)
**''Accessories:'' Gun

: For ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'', Mirage is identical to the last Kay-Bee [[exclusive]] redeco of ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots In Disguise]]'' [[Mirage (RID)|Mirage]], transforming into a translucent green Lola Indy car. He was available only on an individual card from discount chains like The Dollar Store.
{{-}}

===Classics===
[[Image:Classics Mirage toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Applied to [[Revoltech]] club; rejected.]]
*'''Mirage''' (Classics Deluxe, 2006)
**''Accessories:'' Gun/front spoiler
:''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]'' Mirage was released in November 2006 in wave 2, along with the [[shortpacked]] [[Grimlock (G1)/toys|Grimlock]]. He transforms into a closed-canopy Formula racer concept car. Mirage's paint details contain a few ''Transformers'' in-jokes in the form of sponsor logos such as "[[Sparkplug Witwicky|Witwicky Sparkplugs]]" and "[[Lithone (planet)|Lithonian]] Drivetrain." Additionally, his racing number is still 26, as it was on the original toy. Other logos, which include "Plasma Injection Energy" and "F.P. Racing," refer to "pie" and the initials of [[Joe Kyde|the deco artist]]'s super-secret non-gay friendship cult, respectively.

:The front detaches to become a handheld electro-disruptor weapon which is said to be able to create illusions and allow him to appear invisible. (This is a reconciliation of Mirage's illusion-creation ability from his original tech spec profile and his invisibility power from the animated series.) He is ''extremely'' posable.

: This mold was also used to make [[Fracture]] and ''[[Universe (2008 franchise)|Universe]]'' [[Drag Strip]].

{{-}}


[[Image:BotCon2007freeMirage.jpg|right|300px|thumb|I leave your toilets fresh and blue everytime you flush!]]
*'''Hologram Mirage''' (BotCon, 2007)
**''Accessories:'' Gun/front spoiler

:A redeco of Classics Mirage in translucent and opaque blue, Mirage was available only as a "freebie" gift to attendees at BotCon 2007.

{{-}}

===Binaltech===
* '''Rijie''' (e-Hobby exclusive, 2007)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''BT-18'''
**''Accessories:'' Engine/tonfa weapons

:Rijie is a redeco of ''Alternators'' Mirage using mostly transparent plastic. The toy was exclusively available from [[e-Hobby]] in September 2007.

:Even though Takara had briefly contemplated releasing a [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rodimus]] (Hot Rod) retool of Alternators Mirage as the next ''Binaltech'' toy after [[Ginrai]] (both toys would ultimately come out as part of the ''[[Kiss Players (toyline)|Kiss Players]]'' line instead), they apparently never created any [[die-cast]] molds for the Ford GT sculpt. To justify the absence of diecast parts from a ''Binaltech'' toy, Takara decided to use clear plastic parts to represent an "invisible" mode, officially called an "Electro-Disrupter" {{sic}} mode on the packaging.

{{-}}

===Henkei! Henkei!===
[[Image:Henkei Mirage toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Sculpted in 2006. Decoed in the late 70s.]]
*'''Ligier''' (Deluxe, 2008)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''C-04'''
**''Accessories:'' Gun/front spoiler

: ''[[Henkei! Henkei! (toyline)|Henkei! Henkei!]] Transformers'' Ligier is a redeco of ''Classics'' Mirage. In an effort to make him appear more accurate to Mirage's cartoon appearances, Ligier lacks most of the sponsorship tampographs that appeared on ''Classics'' Mirage. As with all ''Henkei'' toys, he lacks the heat-sensitive rubsign seen on the ''Classics'' version, but features [[Vacuum metallizing|vacuum-metallized]] parts: his rear spoiler and his front spoiler.

{{-}}
[[Image:HenkeiElectroDisruptorLigier.jpg|thumb|200px|Clear, black, '''and''' chrome? It's like he's a living embodiment of Takara itself!]]
*'''Electro Disruptor Ligier''' (Deluxe, 2009)

: Electro Disruptor Ligier is a translucent plastic version of ''Henkei'' Ligier offered as a mail-away exclusive to those who have bought the book [[Transformers Generations 2009|Transformers Generations 2009 Volume 1]].

: This toy was repurposed as "[[Shattered Glass (franchise)|Shattered Glass]]" [[Mirage (SG)|Mirage]].

{{-}}

==Merchandise==
===Choro-Q===
*'''Ligier''' (2000)

:''[[Choro-Q]]'' Ligier is a mostly translucent [[redeco]] of the Honda Jordan F1 toy from Takara's ''Choro-Q'' toyline of non-transforming [[super-deformed]] vehicles. He was an [[exclusive]] at [[BotCon]] Japan 2000, and features a [[pull-back motor]] and a rear license plate that reads "BotCon Japan 2000".

:Along with ''Choro-Q'' [[Optimus Prime (G1)/merchandise|Convoy]] and [[Megatron (G1)/toys|Megatron]], Ligier was given out randomly to convention attendees. Each toy was limited to 1000 pieces.

===Robot Heroes===
[[Image:RH Mirage vs Starscream.jpg|right|200px|thumb|I'm too rich to be cute.]]
* '''Mirage Vs Starscream''' (2007)

:Packaged with [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]], Mirage is a two-inch-high robot sculpted in super deformed style with articulation at the head and shoulders. The toy has a sculpted missile launcher, like the original character, but oddly it is resting on the figure's back instead of the shoulder. This mold was later redecod into ''Hologram'' Mirage.

{{-}}
[[Image:Hologram Robot Hero Mirage.jpg|right|150px|thumb|What he said.]]
* '''Decepticon Sneak Attack''' (2007)

:Hologram Mirage is a recolor of the two-pack Mirage cast in transparent blue with slightly different paint details. Most notably, the Autobot symbols on his arms have been replaced with part of the word "Citanes", to evoke the original toy. Mirage was packed with ''Metallic Finish'' Optimus Prime, ''Metallic Finish'' Megatron, Cliffjumper, and Skywarp. This pack was sold exclusively in Walmart, and Walmart.com.

{{-}}

==Trivia==
*Mirage is absent from the fictional events of 2005 and 2006 without explanation; a storyboarded scene from ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' featuring Mirage was cut from the finished film. Amidst the transformation of [[Autobot City]], Mirage was to ambush the Insecticon [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]] and then be fired upon by Megatron. Whether or not this would have killed Mirage is not made clear, but given the film's casual body count, it seems highly probable.
*Mirage has been a traitor/suspected traitor in nearly every continuity he's popped up in. You just can't trust those coastal elite.

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* [http://www.toybin.org/search.php?q=1984+Autobot+Mirage ToyBin Mirage Toy Gallery]
* [http://www.tfu.info/1984/Autobot/Mirage/mirage.htm Mirage at TFU.info]
* [http://www.ntfa.net/universe/english/index.php?act=view&char=Mirage Mirage's Universe profile at NTFA.net]

[[Category:Alternators]]
[[Category:Autobots]]
[[Category:Classics characters]]
[[Category:Convention exclusives]]
[[Category:Decepticons]]
[[Category:Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category:Generation 2 characters]]
[[Category:Go-Bots]]
[[Category:Headmasters characters]]
[[Category: Henkei! Henkei! characters]]
[[Category:Machine Wars characters]]
[[Category:Mail order items]]
[[Category:Robot Heroes]]
[[Category:Robot Masters characters]]
[[Category:Saboteurs]]
[[Category:Spies]]

Mirage (G1)

2010-06-13T01:20:09Z

76.180.61.89: /* The Transformers cartoon */

{{picsneeded|Fiction appearances, toys}}
{{factions|autobot|autobotg2}}
{{disambig3|Mirage}}
:''Mirage is an [[Autobot]] from the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:Mirageg1.jpg|right|300px|thumb|"The ship was... full."]]
'''Mirage''' is what humans call "old money." Before the war, he was a member of affluent Cybertronian society, with his own large estate and high-priced [[Mirage's friends|friends]]. He enjoyed the finer things in life: vintage [[Energon (fuel)|energon]], swank evening events, and [[turbofox]] hunts on the grounds. But when the war started, he was forced to choose sides and found himself banded with a group of commoners he didn't really understand.

Some of the other Autobots don't trust Mirage. He feels the war, even after all these millions of years, is beneath him. War is not, after all, how civilized, erudite beings conduct themselves. He often questions the Autobots' violent means, and not-so-secretly hopes they and the Decepticons can get along. Because of this, he has been labelled by a few others as a Decepticon sympathizer. Still, he sided with the Autobots for a reason, and he is there for the Autobots when they need him.

Although the details vary by continuity, Mirage has the ability to create illusions which typically either render him invisible or make him appear to be somewhere he isn't.

He sounds like [[wikipedia:Dean Martin|Dean Martin]].

:''Japanese name:'' '''Ligier''' or '''Rijie''' (リジェ ''Rije'')
:''Hungarian name:'' '''Délibáb''' ("Mirage")
:''Italian name:'' '''Mistero''' ("Mystery")
:''Portuguese name:'' '''Miragem''' ("Mirage")
:''Chinese name (Taiwan):'' '''Hǎi-shr-shèn-lóu''' (海市蜃樓, "Mirage") / '''Hàun-yǐng''' (幻影, "Phantom")

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Generation 1====
{{noteukonly}}
[[Image:Miragebluestreakfirst.jpg|left|250px|thumb|Mirage tells the story of how he got his name every five minutes.]]
Mirage was one of the Autobots on board the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] when it crashed, and was subsequently reactivated in 1984. At first, Mirage was reluctant to full-on attack his Decepticon opponents, instead trying to reason with them. However, after a battle with the relentless [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]], Mirage learned that sometimes diplomacy is not an option. {{storylink|The Last Stand}}

[[Image:Mirageg1enemywithin.jpg|right|125px|thumb|Punk'd!]]
''During an accident on the Ark, [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] suffered an extreme neuro-shock, causing him to rebel and turn against his teammates. Mirage helped the Autobots hunt him down and tranquilize him. This same accident also amplified Mirage's ability to create illusions, which he later used to trick the Decepticons into believing that a duel between Brawn and [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] ended with Brawn's death. The Decepticons felt totally stupid.'' {{storylink|The Enemy Within!}}

In the wake of a disastrous mission to rescue [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]]'s captive head from the Decepticons, most of the Autobots were rendered inoperative. Mirage was one of a handful of Autobots who remained active, accompanying Optimus and various newer Autobots on several subsequent missions. {{storylink|Rock and Roll-Out!}} {{storylink|I, Robot-Master!}} {{storylink|Command Performances!}}

''Mirage lucked out during the Dinobot Hunt—he was assigned to B-Team, whose quarry, Snarl, was knocked out by the destruction of a human military base, leaving him inert and easy to capture.'' {{storylink|Dinobot Hunt!}}

Long after, he was blown to pieces by [[Octane]] during an Arctic battle arranged by [[Starscream (G1)| Starscream]]. He recovered in time to be destroyed again in [[New York City]] by Starscream himself (empowered by the [[Underbase]]). {{storylink|Dark Star (issue)|Dark Star}}

====Generation 2====
[[Image:Mirageg2die.jpg|left|120px|thumb|"Got to—" '''SPOOM!''']]
Disobeying [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]]'s orders, [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] led a covert team (which included Mirage) onto the [[Cybertronian (faction)|Cybertronian Empire]] ship ''[[Twilight (G2)|Twilight]]'' to defeat [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]] and his army of "evolved Decepticons". Grimlock's plan was an utter failure, ending in [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]]'s death and the Autobots' capture. Mirage was destroyed by enemy fire during the following prison break. {{storylink|Devices and Desires! (Marvel)|Devices and Desires!}}

{{-}}
====Classics====
{{note| The Classics comic takes place after the end of the original Marvel Comic, but in a new timeline that does not include the events of the Marvel UK-exclusive stories or Generation 2.}}
Having been revived (presumably by [[Nucleon]]), Mirage was the happiest of them all, until he saw just how badly his way of life was affected by warfare. Mirage found that ages of warfare had made him bitter. Eventually, he decided to join Optimus Prime in returning to Earth, and war with Megatron.<ref>Mirage Classics Profile, [[Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 13]]</ref>

His actions include evacuating [[Armored Robot Hunters|RUNTs]] and their pilots, holding [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] at gunpoint, and revealing that his illusion powers (in this continuity) now ''include'' invisibility. {{storylink|Crossing Over}}

He later secretly followed [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] to a meeting from his crew of the [[Graviton (Classics)|Graviton]]. Unfortunately, he tried to crash Starscream's meeting with [[Bug Bite (G1)|Bug Bite]]. [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]]'s infra-red sensors, and [[Weirdwolf]]'s keen nose allowed the Decepticons to find him, and he was gift-wrapped for Megatron. When the Gravitron crew led by Grimlock and [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] attacked the Decepticon base, Mirage was rescued by [[Strongarm (Classics)|Strongarm]], [[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]], [[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]], and [[Elita One]]. {{storylink|Games of Deception}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====''The Transformers'' cartoon====
:''Voice actor:'' [[Frank Welker]] (English), [[Takurō Kitagawa]] (Japanese)
[[Image:MTMTE2 Mirage talking to Spike.jpg|right|240px|thumb]]
Mirage was part of the bridge crew of the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] when it crash-landed on Earth four million years ago. A volcanic eruption in 1984 awakened the Ark's inhabitants, including Mirage, who was reformatted by [[Teletraan I (G1)|Teletraan I]] to have a terrestrial alternate mode of a Formula-1 racer. His first mission came when the Autobots rolled out to stop the Decepticons attacking an oil rig. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 1}} After the battle, he got to show off his invisibility power to [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]]. Following another failed battle at [[Sherman Dam]], he suggested they simply leave Earth to the Decepticons and return to Cybertron, a suggestion soundly rejected by [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]]. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 2}}

[[Image:MTMtE Part3 Mirage HALOjump.jpg|left|200px|thumb]]
At the [[Ruby Crystal Mines of Burma]], when Optimus was caught in an explosion, Mirage helped right him. He expressed hope that with the Decepticons perished in the explosion, they'd be able to return to Cybertron, but his optimism was quashed a few moments later when their foe emerged, functional and with more energy to fuel their [[Victory (ship)|new star cruiser]]. While guarding Ravage, Mirage gave Hound the idea to spring a trap on the Decepticons using a holographic rocket base. Unfortunately the Decepticons saw through the plan and raided the real rocket base, attaining the rest of the energy they needed. During the final Autobot operation to try and prevent the launch of the Decepticon cruiser, Mirage used his cloaking ability to sneak aboard. While the Decepticons were squabbling, he uncloaked and opened fire, blasting away at the ship's controls. He then bailed from the doomed cruiser, floating back to Earth's surface on a parasail as the Decepticons crashed into the ocean. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 3}}

After [[Chip Chase]] was kidnapped by the Decepticons who were after the antimatter formula the boy had memorised, Hound and Mirage utilised their respective powers to sneak into the antimatter laboratory. They were able to rescue Chip, but the Decepticons had managed to get the formula and use it to create Energon. Mirage subsequently helped defend Autobot Headquarters. {{storylink|Roll for It}} Mirage rolled out to protect Autobot Headerquarters while [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] and [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] worked to save Prime's life, after the Autobot leader was badly damaged in a Decepticon attack. {{storylink|Divide and Conquer}} He took part in the construction of the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobot]]s... and then had to try to stop them when they ran wild. He, [[Bluestreak]] and [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] sealed the three Dinobots in a cave, but were mighty grateful when, after almost all of the Autobots were captured by the Decepticons, the Dinobots were released to come to the rescue. {{storylink|S.O.S. Dinobots}}

[[Image:CountdowntoExtinction Mirage firing missile.jpg|right|210px|thumb]]
When Megatron was using [[hypno-chip]]ped humans to load Energon onto their shuttle for transport to Cybertron, Mirage used his invisibility to sneak on board and order the humans to start unloading the Energon again. He was blasted in the back a short time later by [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]. {{storylink|The Ultimate Doom, Part 3}} When the Autobots were caught in quicksand while pursuing the Decepticons, Mirage used his shoulder missile to shoot down [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]]. {{storylink|Countdown to Extinction (episode)|Countdown to Extinction}} Mirage turned out with the other Autobots to watch Optimus and Megatron engage in single combat as per Cybertronian law. To their horror, Optimus lost, but they later discovered that Megatron had cheated, so the results were nullified. {{storylink|Heavy Metal War}}

[[Image:CityOfSteel Mirage carrying alligatorcon.jpg|thumb|left|210px]]
Mirage rolled out to attack Megatron's [[Solar Needle]] and rescue [[Gears (G1)|Gears]], but didn't play much role in the battle. {{storylink|Changing Gears}} He was on Ratchet's team, entering the sewers of [[New York City]] in an attempt to rescue Optimus. After tangling with an [[Alligatorcon]], they found Prime... in pieces. The Alligatorcon had been built from Optimus's parts, and Mirage, Ratchet and Hound had to capture it so Ratchet could rebuild their leader. Once Optimus had been put back together, they proceeded to the surface and battled Decepticons, [[battle taxi]]s and Prime's own severed arm. {{storylink|City of Steel}}

[[Image:Traitor Mirage cerebro shell implant.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
The spotlight shone on Mirage again when [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] suspected him of disloyalty. The discovery of a Decepticon installation in a sector Mirage had recently scouted caused Cliffjumper to leap the incorrect conclusion that Mirage had concealed the information and was a traitor to the Autobots. During a battle with the Decepticons at the site, Mirage was injured, but managed to rip a Decepticon [[Insignia|seal]] off [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]. Mirage risked the trust of his comrades by sneaking away to perform a plan of his own, framing the Decepticons for stealing [[Energon cube|Energon cubes]] from the [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]]. Spotted carrying the cubes by Cliffjumper, Mirage's guilt seemed all but confirmed, and before he could reveal his innocence, he was captured and brainwashed by one of [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]]'s mind-controlling [[Cerebro-shell|cerebro-shells]]. Under Bombshell's control, Mirage led the Autobots into an ambush, but at the battle’s end, the assorted manipulations were revealed and Cliffjumper apologized to Mirage. {{storylink|Traitor}}

[[Image:AutobotRun Jazz Mirage vehicle modes.jpg|thumb|left|240px]]
Mirage took part in a charity race organised by the Autobots. While they raced and performed stunts, the Autobots were affected by Megatron's latest invention, the [[Transfixatron]], which locked them in their vehicle modes. They were herded by the Decepticons to a ghost town, where the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]]s had created a machine to destroy them. It was only through an intervention of Ratchet and Wheeljack's counter invention that they were saved. {{storylink|The Autobot Run}}

[[Image:EntertheNightbird invisible Mirage.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Maybe this would be a good time to practice my mime act...]]
Mirage came with the other Autobots when they were hired by [[Doctor Fujiyama the Famous Scientist]] to protect [[Nightbird (G1)|his latest invention]] when it was being unveiled. When Decepticons attacked, Mirage became invisible and attacked Soundwave. Megatron offered to make Mirage disappear for good, but Optimus Prime saw to it that it wouldn't come true. After the Decepticons made off with Nightbird, Mirage and Ratchet insisted that [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] stay behind at Autobot base for repairs. As Brawn and [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] were being repaired, Optimus detected an intruder. Mirage went to investigate, only to be beaten up by a Decepticon-reprogrammed Nightbird. Mirage pursued her with the other Autobots. When they caught up with her, Mirage became invisible in order to return Optimus Prime's laser rifle undetected, giving him the advantage. {{storylink|Enter the Nightbird}}

When Mirage and the other Autobots found they mysteriously had two Optimus Primes, the duo were subjected to a series of inconclusive tests. Before any further testing could be done, they had to roll out to a crevasse filled with [[korlonium crystal]]s to investigate strange readings. During the battle with the Decepticons that followed, the real Prime's identity was soon revealed. {{storylink|A Prime Problem}} Mirage was part of [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]]'s team when they stumbled on the Decepticons' drilling operation. As [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] blasted him off a cliff, Mirage became invisible so the Decepticons would "never find [his] pieces". Of course, he survived and he and Sunstreaker used his grappling hook to take down Devastator. Back at Headquarters, a plan was hatched to plant [[dominator disc]]s on the Constructicons. Mirage took part, planting two of the discs at once, and Devastator was soon under Autobot control. Alas, it didn't last long — while they were trying to stop the Decepticons drilling to the Earth's core, Megatron retook control of the combiner. {{storylink|The Core}}

Mirage was at Headquarters when [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] and [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] reported the discovery of [[Dinobot Island (G1)|Dinobot Island]]. {{storylink|Dinobot Island, Part 1}} Through a cunning plan on Megatron's part, the Autobots were found guilty of stealing energy and forced to leave Earth in a spaceship supplied by [[Shawn Berger]]. {{storylink|Megatron's Master Plan, Part 1}} They soon discovered that the spacecraft was locked on course to the [[Sun]]. Through the heroic efforts of Chip Chase and bungling of [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]], as well as the use of [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] and [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]]'s force fields, the Autobots returned to Earth, where the Decepticons had already revealed their true nature. {{storylink|Megatron's Master Plan, Part 2}}

[[Image:DesertionDinobots1 Mirage steals fusion cannon.jpg|thumb|left|240px]]
During an attempt by the Decepticons to steal the plans to the [[Ultra Plane]], Mirage used his invisibility to steal Megatron's [[fusion cannon]] right off the Decepticon leader's arm. A brief tug-of-war ensued over the weapon, which Mirage lost, but Megatron retreated in the end anyhow. Later, as the Dinobots were being repaired after another battle, Mirage reminisced about how great Cybertron was. When [[Cybertonium]] depletion started affecting all of the Transformers, Mirage's invisibility power went on the fritz — instead of making him invisible, it merely altered his color scheme slightly. Unfortunately he didn't find this out until after he tried to sneak up on [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] and was promptly blasted into a wall. {{storylink|Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 1}} The Autobots' condition worsened, until they were unable to move. They remained this way until the Dinobots, Spike and [[Carly]] managed to retrieve more Cybertonium from Cybertron. {{storylink|Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 2}}

[[Image:GoldenLagoon Mirage reports to Autobots.jpg|thumb|right|220px]]
Mirage rolled out for [[Haley Observatory]] when Megatron stole the [[Voltronic Galaxer]], but went missing somewhere along the way, and didn't arrive with the rest of the group. {{storylink|Blaster Blues}} He was part of an Autobot team who faced [[electrum]]-plated Decepticons with little success. He had to retreat back to [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]]'s position for reinforcements. When even Omega fell before the Decepticons, Mirage returned to Headquarters to break the news, and [[Teletraan I (G1)|Teletraan I]] soon worked out how the Decepticons had become invincible. Soon the Autobots had found the electrum pool and, coating themselves, were able to defeat the Decepticons. {{storylink|The Golden Lagoon}} After a number of Autobots were abducted by big game hunter [[Lord Chumley]], Mirage was present at Headquarters when Cosmos finally located the missing Autobots. {{storylink|Prime Target}} He also helped coat the [[Statue of Liberty]] with [[corrostop]], Perceptor's latest invention. {{storylink|Cosmic Rust (episode)|Cosmic Rust}}

Mirage was among the team of five Autobots who disguised themselves as the [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]], with Mirage's alternate mode making him the perfect choice to masquerade as [[Drag Strip]]. Penetrating the Decepticon camp, the Autobots ran into trouble when the real Stunticons arrived, trying to prove their identities by forming [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]]. With a combination of [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]]'s magnetic powers and Mirage’s illusion-creating ability, the Autobots were able to appear as Menasor too. Though the deception was soon revealed, they were still able to thwart the Decepticons’ plans. {{storylink|Masquerade}}

{{note|An unused scene from the storyboard for [[The Transformers: The Movie]] showed Mirage wounded (possibly killed) by Megatron after getting back at Bombshell for [[Traitor|jeopardizing his career]]. Given the high body count, his death is still likely.}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====

=====''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' comic=====

Mirage was among the Autobots stationed at [[Ark (G1)|Autobot headquarters]] in [[Arizona]] when [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] and the Decepticons attacked. Though the Autobots were ultimately victorious, the entire attack was actually just a distraction so that [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] could go perform ''evil'' somewhere in Japan. {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 2}}

Mirage later appeared at the Autobots' newly constructed Japanese base, welcoming the small [[human]] boy, [[Kenji]]. {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 4}}

=====''Full Throttle Scramble Power!''=====
{{storylink|Full Throttle Scramble Power!}}

=====''Robot Masters'' pack-in comics=====

=====''Robot Masters'' online comics=====
{{charstubfiction}}

=====''Story of Binaltech''=====
Mirage volunteered for an experimental new Binaltech upgrade that boosted the [[power chip rectifier]] in his revamped body to the Nth degree, making him permanently invisible thanks to his electro-disruptor. This proved to be key in a special mission conceived of by [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]]. Having uncovered several secrets from the files of the time-traveling [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]], the Autobots learned of a mysterious [[Large switch|switch]] hidden away on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] which, when pulled, would instantaneously immobilize all Transformers throughout the universe. Having lost Cybertron to [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s tyrannical rule and facing considerable odds in the Sol System as well, Prime decided it was necessary to activate the switch in order to end the war.

With [[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]] and several [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] [[GT System|GTs]] awaiting his signal as back-up, Mirage invisibly infiltrated Decepticon-controlled Cybertron and made his way to the switch. After throwing the switch, though, Mirage was surprised to find that he was still mobile. It seemed the Binaltech warriors (both Autobot and Decepticon) were significantly different enough from regular Transformers to be unaffected by the immobilization wave. With the Autobots now vastly outnumbering the Decepticons still in operation, the tide of the war had irreparably shifted. {{storylink|Kill Switch}}

=====''The Headmasters'' cartoon=====
[[Image:JHeadmasters01VariousGuys.jpg|thumb|200px|Combined screenshot used to avoid having to put up two tiny ones. Ignore the bottom!]]
Some time before the Transformers' war left Cybertron, Mirage engaged the Decepticons in battle with his comrades. {{storylink|Four Warriors Come out of the Sky}}

{{note|For whatever reason, this pre-title screen Cybertronian skirmish was left out of both the United Kingdom and Australian DVD releases of the ''Headmasters'' series.}}

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===Dreamwave comics continuity===
{{notekeepers}}
Despite his misgiving about the war effort, Mirage's tenure with the Autobot cause dates back to the time of [[Sentinel Prime (G1)|Sentinel Prime]]. When Shockwave staged a disastrous offensive against [[Iacon]], Mirage was there defending the [[Decagon]] alongside Prowl and the other Autobot soldiers. {{storylink|The War Within issue 5}} During the Dark Ages, he continued serving under Prowl as part of the main Autobot faction at [[Virtue's Forum]], in the remains of Iacon. Alongside Jazz and [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]], he tried defending their prisoner, [[Blitzwing (G1)|Experiment D-43]], against the intruder known as [[The Fallen]], but failed miserably in the process. {{storylink|War Within: The Dark Ages}}

Four million years ago, Mirage crash-landed on the planet Earth aboard the shuttle known as the Ark, with more than two dozen of his fellow Autobots and Decepticons. They remained inactive in stasis lock at the base of a volcano until 1984, when volcanic activity shook them back on-line. The war began again, but without reinforcements or connection to Cybertron, Megatron and his Decepticons were eventually defeated and taken prisoner by the Autobots. Mirage and the rest of the Transformers were prepared to fly back to Cybertron in a new spacecraft, the ''[[Ark II]]'', when it exploded on its maiden voyage, leaving them all believed dead.

Not so. Most of the Transformers had been salvaged by a mercenary named [[Lazarus]], who spent the next few years repairing and reprogramming the Cybertronians to use as weapons of mass destruction at his command. Optimus Prime was reactivated by the United States military to oppose Lazarus, and he in turn used the power of the Matrix to revive several other Autobots who had escaped Lazarus' salvage crews, including Mirage. After rescuing some of their number from the human mercenaries, Mirage and the Autobots had to race against time putting their friends back together after the Decepticons escaped to wreak havoc. What's worse, a mechanizing virus had been released by Megatron, turning organic life into inanimate mechanical matter. Mirage exhausted a good percentage of his energon reserves fighting back the tide of the virus, but the Autobots were eventually successful. {{storylink|Prime Directive}}

''Mirage was remarkably unhelpful during the war with the [[Keeper (species)|Keepers]]. After Optimus Prime was forced to give the Matrix over to Megatron as a debt of honor, Mirage sniped about the decision worse than any of the Autobots. His criticisms only got louder after a news report from [[Washington, D.C.]] made it clear that Megatron had found one of his warriors, the already mighty [[Omega Sentinel (G1)|Omega Sentinel]], who could actually wield the power of the Matrix directly. Now that Prime had actually strengthened their enemies as well as weakening the Autobots, Mirage just wouldn't shut up about it. The final straw was when [[Franklin Townsend]], a crazed augment working for the Keepers, idly strolled into the Ark, took over control of [[Bluestreak]]'s mind, and made his getaway. Mirage was ready to brazenly disobey Prime's orders and charge right after Bluestreak, until Optimus physically slammed him into a wall and forced him to obey his commanding officer. ''

''When you're being so much of a dick that the legendary patience of Optimus Prime runs out, it's time to rein it in, Mirage. {{storylink|Fusion (novel)|Fusion}}''

When [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] came to Earth and announced that the Autobot/Decepticon wars were over and that the two factions had been united, Mirage was one of the first to fall in with the new regime. The rest of the Autobots were wary of this development, and so a few (especially [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]]) considered Mirage a traitor. {{storylink|Brothers' Burden}} Mirage quickly realigned himself with the Autobot cause when Shockwave's true plan was revealed, and Cliffjumper seemed to forgive him, as Mirage had saved Cliffjumper from [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] by sneaking up on him invisibly. {{storylink|Revelation (War and Peace)|Revelation}}

Unfortunately for Mirage, the Autobots' acting commander Prowl soon came to the conclusion that they needed to return to Earth and establish a more significant beach-head there for the future. Mirage tried to argue against the idea, as he was more than thrilled to finally be back home on Cybertron, but then [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] cut in and reminded Mirage that Shockwave's united government had sold off his riches and property while he was gone. Ooooh—burn. {{storylink|Atonement}} The Autobots readied themselves for the return mission on a new shuttle, and began construction of Autobot City upon their arrival on Earth. {{storylink|The Route of All Evil}}

===Devil's Due ''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers'' comics===
[[Image:GIJoevsTF4_Mirage_Ferret.jpg|thumb|left|250px|]]
[[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] found Mirage's holo-projector aboard the ''Ark'', and used it to make a better holographic driver for himself than [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] could. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 2}}

Meanwhile, Mirage was among the dormant Transformers discovered by [[Cobra]], reprogrammed for nefarious purposes, and given new alternate modes (Mirage now transformed into a Cobra [[Ferret]]). Upon being freed from Cobra's control by Wheeljack, Mirage's group located Optimus Prime and helped fight back against the newly freed Decepticons. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 4}} He later stood watch as the damaged Prime was formulating a plan to defeat Megatron. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 5}}

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===Dreamwave ''Transformers/G.I. Joe'' comics===
Mirage was apparently among the Autobots awakened on the [[Fera Islands]] in 1939, as Optimus Prime mentioned that he had been killed in the battle against [[Cobra]]. {{storylink|The Iron Fist}}

===IDW comics continuity===
Mirage was a suspect in the assassination attempts on [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]], as he was one of only four Autobots present on the [[Autobot Orbital Command Hub|Hub]] during both attacks. He and two of the other Autobots were cleared when it was discovered that a mind-controlled [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] was the true culprit. {{storylink|Spotlight: Blaster}}

A year later, he delivered information to the Autobots that there was a power-struggle among the Decepticons, information that turned out to be false and drew Optimus and an Autobot team (including the former ''[[Ark-19]]'' crew) into a hideous ambush that left them trapped on Cybertron. Before dumping them on Cybertron, Megatron revealed that there had been a willing traitor collaborator involved in his trap, and Mirage was the prime suspect {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 7}} with everyone but [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] and [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] believing he'd betrayed them to the Decepticons. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 4}}

It's not all bad, though; he got to use his invisibility trick to sneak up on [[Kup (G1)|Kup]]'s crew when Jazz was trying to prove his command skills. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 5}} Not long after, a raging Ironhide dragged him into a corner and beat him half to death and ripped off his Autobot badge. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 7}}

It was eventually revealed that [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] had been the real traitor, and Ironhide tried to apologize to Mirage. Mirage wouldn't accept his apology, however, leaving his badge off out of spite and warning Ironhide against ever talking to him again. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 9}} However, despite his harsh words, Mirage came to Ironhide's rescue during a [[Insecticon swarm|swarm]] attack, urging his comrade to save himself. Ironhide refused, and instead stayed behind to help Mirage fight the monstrosities. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 10}} After the Autobots were saved by [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]], they returned to Earth and fought against the Decepticons in [[New York City]]. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 11}}

Three years later, the Autobots were still squatting on Earth at Optimus Prime's insistence, keeping the humans "safe" from the Decepticons while being hunted by those very same humans. Mirage was present when [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] finally went stir-crazy and demanded some action. That "action" led to [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]]'s death and Prime surrendering himself to the human robot-hunters, [[Skywatch]]. {{storylink|...For All Mankind}} Along with [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]], [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]], and several others, Mirage joined Hot Rod in breaking off from what remained of the Autobot forces to leave the planet of mud and water behind. At first, they tried convincing Omega Supreme to leave with them, but Hot Rod's speeches failed to overcome Omega's loyalty to Optimus Prime. Instead, they found unlikely allies in a pack of roving Decepticons led by [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]]. {{storylink|New Arrivals, Old Encounters}} With the additional manpower, they began construction of a new space cruiser to leave Earth forever, despite the unease the new allies had for one another. {{storylink|A Rude Awakening}} Mirage busied himself checking a datapad for the new flight control systems. {{storylink|Seasons in Flight}}

Unsurprisingly, the Decepticons eventually betrayed Hot Rod's team and attempted to take the space cruiser for themselves. Mirage and the others fought against their new creation, [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]], and eventually brought him down. Mirage was one of several Autobots who were injured in the battle, and was repaired by Skywatch technicians. {{storylink|Earthworks}}

{{note|The events of ''Spotlight: Mirage'' possibly take place in an alternate/unknown continuity.}}
[[Image:SpotlightMirage trappedHound.jpg|right|200px|thumb|This didn't actually happen. Or did it? No, it didn't.]]
Mirage was haunted repeatedly by dreams of being a Decepticon. Or actually ''is'' a Decepticon from another universe who, after helping kill the last Autobots, got blown back through time and space to the main universe. Or via [[Zodiac]] energy has gained flashbacks of an alternate Decepticon Mirage. God knows what's going on there. {{storylink|Spotlight: Mirage}}
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===''Henkei! Henkei!'' pack-in comic===

{{storylink|Mirage's Rebirth}}

{{charstubfiction}}

===''Henkei! Henkei!'' Bun Bun manga===

{{storylink|Enter! The Transformers}} {{storylink|The Emperor of Destruction Appears!}} {{storylink|Kingdom of Giants}} {{storylink|The Enemy from the Arctic}} {{storylink|Wataru's Power}}

{{charstubfiction}}

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==Toys==
{{picsneeded|G2 Go Bot, Universe Spychanger, Binaltech}}
===Generation 1===
[[Image:G1Mirage toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|I don't need to be street-legal; I'm rich.]]
*'''Mirage''' (Autobot Car, 1984/1986/1991)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''07'''
**''Accessories:'' "Rocket-Dart Hunting Rifle", missile launcher, 3 missiles

: Mirage was part of the original 1984 Autobot car assortment. His mold was originally used for a ''[[Diaclone]]'' F-1 Ligier JS-11 racer. The toy was specifically designed to work with the launcher mechanism contained in the Optimus Prime / Battle Convoy trailer. This toy is easily broken at the waist pivot. The labels on the toy are references to several real-world companies. The largest name, Citanes, is a deliberate corruption of Gitanes, a French cigarette company. (Quite unusual for a child's toy, but not the only [[Marlboor Wheeljack|cigarette reference in ''Diaclone'']].) The toy included Gitanes' logo of a dancing gypsy woman on what ends up as Mirage's belt in robot form. "Ligier" is the name of the company that manufactured the JS-11 chassis and fielded the team, traditionally wearing 25 and 26 on the F1 grid, while "elf" is a reference to a French oil company that has since merged with TotalFina to become TotalFinaElf.

: In 1986, he was made available as a mail-away item (as he was no longer shipping to retail shelves) in multiple offers, including a [[Digital Doom on the Highway to Destruction]] flier packed with most boxed ''Transformers'' toys. He cost $8 and two [[robot points]]. In Japan Mirage was also included in the 1986 ''Goodbye Convoy'' [[Giftset|gift set]]. This was the final release of the mold, making Mirage the only one of the original Autobots not to have been reissued in some form.

: Hasbro and/or Takara have announced that the mold for Mirage is [[Mold#Issues with Reissues|either lost or damaged]], so a reissue is unlikely. This presumably excludes the molds obtained by [[Knockoff|certain Chinese companies]] to produce several Mirage "perfect" [[Bootleg|bootlegs]] in a variety of flavors including original, clear, smoke, and red, based on the ultra-rare version from the [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Diaclone Powered Convoy]] giftset.

===Generation 2===
* '''Mirage''' (Go-Bot, 1995)
**''Accessories:'' Gun

: Mirage was released in 1995 as a black and yellow recolor of the [[Go-Bot (G2)|Go-Bot]] [[Double Clutch]]. He was also planned to be released as a flipchanger, but the ''Generation 2'' line was canceled to make way for ''[[Beast Wars (toyline)|Beast Wars]]''. The unreleased mold was first used in ''[[Machine Wars]]''.

: This mold was also used to make ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Mirage (RID)|Mirage]].
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===Machine Wars===
[[Image:Mwmirage.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Gah! I'm teal! Somebody recolor me, please!]]
* '''Mirage''' (Basic, 1997)
**''Accessories:'' 2-part rifle

: Mirage's form in ''[[Machine Wars]]'' transforms into a blue and white Indycar. Like the other Machine Wars basics, the toy is a flipchanger (having a one-step, spring-loaded transformation), and his weapons are hidden in his alt mode. Unlike most of the ''Machine Wars'' toys, the head looks very similar to his Generation 1 form. This is because the mold was originally designed as Mirage for ''[[Generation 2 (toyline)|Generation 2]]''.

: This mold was also used to make ''Machine Wars'' [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] and ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Skid-Z (RID)|Skid-Z]].

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===Robot Masters===
[[Image:RMRijie toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Phew. Thanks.]]
* '''Rijie''' (Basic, 2004)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''RM-03'''
**''Accessories:'' 2-part "Molecular Bonding Gun", "JS Laser Gun"

: ''[[Robot Masters (franchise)|Robot Masters]]'' "Rijie" used the ''Machine Wars'' Mirage mold, but in a much more [[Generation 1 (toyline)|Generation 1]]-based coloration and deco. He also came with an extra chrome-silver "JS Laser Gun" (like the other bonus weapons of ''Robot Masters'', it is suspected to be a mold originally developed yet ultimately unused by the cut-short ''[[Microman]] LED Powers'' line).

: Because of legal reasons, "Ligier" could not be used for the name of the ''Robot Masters'' toy, so "Rijie", which has the same pronunciation in Japan, was used instead. Curiously, the toy's instructions still identify it as "Ligier".

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===Alternators===
[[Image:AlternatorsMirage toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|This toy is clearly black, red, and silver. You're just deluding yourself.]]
* '''Mirage''' (Alternator, 2006)
**''Alternator ID number:'' '''22'''
**''Accessories:'' Engine/tonfa weapons

: ''[[Alternators]]'' Mirage transforms into a finely detailed 1:24 scale replica of a Ford GT, featuring opening doors, engine bay and trunk, with a realistic interior. As with most Alternators, his car body is mostly unpainted, but the metallic-flake deep blue plastic makes this hard to see.

: Featuring an innovative, different robot mode, Mirage is not a straight re-interpretation of the original Mirage's robot mode, due to the completely different types of vehicles. But coincidentally the Ford GT's hood features a shape that echoes a F1-type racing car's nose and front spoiler. His engine's supercharger forms two separate tonfa weapons that can also be interpreted as guns.

: Mirage was retooled into [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Hot Rodimus]] for the ''[[Kiss Players (toyline)|Kiss Players]]'' line, which was further redecoed into ''Alternators'' Rodimus. Later in 2007, he was redecoed in clear plastic colours to represent his 'invisibility mode' as an [[e-Hobby]] exclusive in the ''[[Binaltech]]'' line.

===Universe===
*'''Mirage''' (Spy Changer, 2006)
**''Accessories:'' Gun

: For ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'', Mirage is identical to the last Kay-Bee [[exclusive]] redeco of ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots In Disguise]]'' [[Mirage (RID)|Mirage]], transforming into a translucent green Lola Indy car. He was available only on an individual card from discount chains like The Dollar Store.
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===Classics===
[[Image:Classics Mirage toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Applied to [[Revoltech]] club; rejected.]]
*'''Mirage''' (Classics Deluxe, 2006)
**''Accessories:'' Gun/front spoiler
:''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]'' Mirage was released in November 2006 in wave 2, along with the [[shortpacked]] [[Grimlock (G1)/toys|Grimlock]]. He transforms into a closed-canopy Formula racer concept car. Mirage's paint details contain a few ''Transformers'' in-jokes in the form of sponsor logos such as "[[Sparkplug Witwicky|Witwicky Sparkplugs]]" and "[[Lithone (planet)|Lithonian]] Drivetrain." Additionally, his racing number is still 26, as it was on the original toy. Other logos, which include "Plasma Injection Energy" and "F.P. Racing," refer to "pie" and the initials of [[Joe Kyde|the deco artist]]'s super-secret non-gay friendship cult, respectively.

:The front detaches to become a handheld electro-disruptor weapon which is said to be able to create illusions and allow him to appear invisible. (This is a reconciliation of Mirage's illusion-creation ability from his original tech spec profile and his invisibility power from the animated series.) He is ''extremely'' posable.

: This mold was also used to make [[Fracture]] and ''[[Universe (2008 franchise)|Universe]]'' [[Drag Strip]].

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[[Image:BotCon2007freeMirage.jpg|right|300px|thumb|I leave your toilets fresh and blue everytime you flush!]]
*'''Hologram Mirage''' (BotCon, 2007)
**''Accessories:'' Gun/front spoiler

:A redeco of Classics Mirage in translucent and opaque blue, Mirage was available only as a "freebie" gift to attendees at BotCon 2007.

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===Binaltech===
* '''Rijie''' (e-Hobby exclusive, 2007)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''BT-18'''
**''Accessories:'' Engine/tonfa weapons

:Rijie is a redeco of ''Alternators'' Mirage using mostly transparent plastic. The toy was exclusively available from [[e-Hobby]] in September 2007.

:Even though Takara had briefly contemplated releasing a [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rodimus]] (Hot Rod) retool of Alternators Mirage as the next ''Binaltech'' toy after [[Ginrai]] (both toys would ultimately come out as part of the ''[[Kiss Players (toyline)|Kiss Players]]'' line instead), they apparently never created any [[die-cast]] molds for the Ford GT sculpt. To justify the absence of diecast parts from a ''Binaltech'' toy, Takara decided to use clear plastic parts to represent an "invisible" mode, officially called an "Electro-Disrupter" {{sic}} mode on the packaging.

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===Henkei! Henkei!===
[[Image:Henkei Mirage toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Sculpted in 2006. Decoed in the late 70s.]]
*'''Ligier''' (Deluxe, 2008)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''C-04'''
**''Accessories:'' Gun/front spoiler

: ''[[Henkei! Henkei! (toyline)|Henkei! Henkei!]] Transformers'' Ligier is a redeco of ''Classics'' Mirage. In an effort to make him appear more accurate to Mirage's cartoon appearances, Ligier lacks most of the sponsorship tampographs that appeared on ''Classics'' Mirage. As with all ''Henkei'' toys, he lacks the heat-sensitive rubsign seen on the ''Classics'' version, but features [[Vacuum metallizing|vacuum-metallized]] parts: his rear spoiler and his front spoiler.

{{-}}
[[Image:HenkeiElectroDisruptorLigier.jpg|thumb|200px|Clear, black, '''and''' chrome? It's like he's a living embodiment of Takara itself!]]
*'''Electro Disruptor Ligier''' (Deluxe, 2009)

: Electro Disruptor Ligier is a translucent plastic version of ''Henkei'' Ligier offered as a mail-away exclusive to those who have bought the book [[Transformers Generations 2009|Transformers Generations 2009 Volume 1]].

: This toy was repurposed as "[[Shattered Glass (franchise)|Shattered Glass]]" [[Mirage (SG)|Mirage]].

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==Merchandise==
===Choro-Q===
*'''Ligier''' (2000)

:''[[Choro-Q]]'' Ligier is a mostly translucent [[redeco]] of the Honda Jordan F1 toy from Takara's ''Choro-Q'' toyline of non-transforming [[super-deformed]] vehicles. He was an [[exclusive]] at [[BotCon]] Japan 2000, and features a [[pull-back motor]] and a rear license plate that reads "BotCon Japan 2000".

:Along with ''Choro-Q'' [[Optimus Prime (G1)/merchandise|Convoy]] and [[Megatron (G1)/toys|Megatron]], Ligier was given out randomly to convention attendees. Each toy was limited to 1000 pieces.

===Robot Heroes===
[[Image:RH Mirage vs Starscream.jpg|right|200px|thumb|I'm too rich to be cute.]]
* '''Mirage Vs Starscream''' (2007)

:Packaged with [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]], Mirage is a two-inch-high robot sculpted in super deformed style with articulation at the head and shoulders. The toy has a sculpted missile launcher, like the original character, but oddly it is resting on the figure's back instead of the shoulder. This mold was later redecod into ''Hologram'' Mirage.

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[[Image:Hologram Robot Hero Mirage.jpg|right|150px|thumb|What he said.]]
* '''Decepticon Sneak Attack''' (2007)

:Hologram Mirage is a recolor of the two-pack Mirage cast in transparent blue with slightly different paint details. Most notably, the Autobot symbols on his arms have been replaced with part of the word "Citanes", to evoke the original toy. Mirage was packed with ''Metallic Finish'' Optimus Prime, ''Metallic Finish'' Megatron, Cliffjumper, and Skywarp. This pack was sold exclusively in Walmart, and Walmart.com.

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==Trivia==
*Mirage is absent from the fictional events of 2005 and 2006 without explanation; a storyboarded scene from ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' featuring Mirage was cut from the finished film. Amidst the transformation of [[Autobot City]], Mirage was to ambush the Insecticon [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]] and then be fired upon by Megatron. Whether or not this would have killed Mirage is not made clear, but given the film's casual body count, it seems highly probable.
*Mirage has been a traitor/suspected traitor in nearly every continuity he's popped up in. You just can't trust those coastal elite.

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* [http://www.toybin.org/search.php?q=1984+Autobot+Mirage ToyBin Mirage Toy Gallery]
* [http://www.tfu.info/1984/Autobot/Mirage/mirage.htm Mirage at TFU.info]
* [http://www.ntfa.net/universe/english/index.php?act=view&char=Mirage Mirage's Universe profile at NTFA.net]

[[Category:Alternators]]
[[Category:Autobots]]
[[Category:Classics characters]]
[[Category:Convention exclusives]]
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[[Category:Go-Bots]]
[[Category:Headmasters characters]]
[[Category: Henkei! Henkei! characters]]
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