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Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 1

2011-12-23T15:44:02Z

94.22.70.147: /* Continuity notes */

{{episode
|series=G1toon
|ep=37
|series2=SRLFtoon
|ep2=28
|prev2=Megatron's Master Plan, Part 2
|next2=Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 2
|series3=''[[Generation 2 (cartoon)|The Transformers: Generation 2]]''
|ep3=39
|prev3=The Girl Who Loved Powerglide
|next3=Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 2
|image=DesertionDinobots1 resignation.JPG
|caption=Like nobody saw this coming miles away.
|title="Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 1"
|production code=#700-36
|airdate=[[October 21]], 1985
|written by=[[Earl Kress]]
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}

'''The Dinobots abandon the Autobots as both the Autobots and Decepticons begin to suffer malfunctions.'''

:''Japanese title:'' ダイノボットの逃亡 PART I (''Dinobot no Tōbō PART I'', "Desertion of the Dinobots PART I")
:''Portuguese name:'' '''A Deserção dos Dinobots Parte 1'''
:''Italian title, dub 2:'' '''I Dinorobots disertano-Parte 1''' ("Deserting Dinobots-Part 1")
:''Italian title, dub 2:'' '''La diserzione dei Dinobots - I''' ("Desertion of the Dinobots - I")

==Synopsis==
At a laboratory, [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] and the [[Autobot]]s are being shown [[Ultra Plane|a new drone fighter]] by a human professor. However, [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] is out to steal the fighter's blueprints from the laboratory. [[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] and [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]], who are inside [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]], provide a distraction, while [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] destroys the drone. Prime orders the Autobots to inspect the wreckage for any clues. Shortly after this, the [[Decepticon]]s attack the lab, but the Autobots arrive and are able to send them packing.

[[Image:G1 Grimlock Megs bite.JPG|left|200px|thumb|Me Grimlock want to munch Megatron!]]

After some fun at the [[Fun A Rama Park]], [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]], [[Carly]], and [[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]] go to pick [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]] up at the airport. While there, they discover a Decepticon base in an [[Hangar|airplane hangar]]. Bumblebee calls Prime for reinforcements, but the Autobots with Prime are too far away. Contacting the [[Ark (G1)|Autobot base]], [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] sends the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]] to assist. The Dinobots quickly trash the Decepticons. In retaliation, Megatron orders the Decepticons to blast the planes, causing a massive explosion that damages the Dinobots and allows the Decepticons to retreat. [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]], [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]], and [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] arrive to put out the fires and take the Dinobots back to base. [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] and Wheeljack begin repairs on the Dinobots, while the other Autobots rebuild the airport.

[[Image:DesertionDinobots1 Rumble Megs.JPG|right|200px|thumb|What is it, little buddy? Are you lost? Timmy fell down the well?]]

Meanwhile, the Decepticons are flying through the air back to [[Decepticon Headquarters (G1 Earth)|their base]]. All of a sudden, Ravage ejects from Soundwave, transforms and lands on the ground below. Megatron demands an explanation, but Soundwave says that Ravage initiated the ejection without a reason. Soon, however, the Decepticons fall from the sky, and [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] begins attacking Megatron, though he doesn't know why and he can't stop himself. Megatron flicks him away and concludes that they are suffering from bad [[Energon (fuel)|energon]]. The group heads off to get some new [[Energon cube|cubes]] from a powerplant to refuel themselves.

At the Autobot base, the Dinobots are repaired, and Prime, still rebuilding the airport, tries to send them to stop the Decepticons. [[Grimlock (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Grimlock]] angrily refuses, saying he's tired of taking the Autobot leader's orders and saving the Autobots whenever they need help. The Dinobots leave the base, intending to fight whenever they want to. At the power plant, the Autobots arrive to stop the Decepticons, but both factions begin to suffer from debilitating malfunctions. After an indecisive battle, Megatron orders the Decepticons to retreat.

[[Image:DesertionDinobots1 Autobots tired.JPG|left|200px|thumb|Cybertonium chairs seemed like a good idea at the time, but now...]]

Back at the base, the Autobots are suffering power failures now, as well as other problems (Wheeljack can't move, [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]]'s legs are stuck in [[alternate mode]], and [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] is holding his own severed head!). [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]] concludes that they are suffering from [[Cybertonium]] depletion. However, Cybertonium only exists on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. Fortunately, [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] is sending a shipment over the [[space bridge]], but the Autobots are in no condition to retrieve it themselves. Sparkplug, Spike, and Carly decide to track down the Dinobots.

As the three look for the Dinobots, they find that they have been discovered by the Dinobots. Grimlock is less than pleased to have been followed by the humans, and decides to crush them. Sparkplug lays it on thick when he says they need the Dinobots' "brilliant help." [[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]], however, saves the humans from getting smushed because he wants to hear about the "brilliant" part. Sparkplug explains the situation, but Grimlock doesn't care. However, when Spike mentions Cybertonium, Grimlock realizes the Cybertron connection, and decides to help (despite [[Slag (G1)|Slag]]'s refusal and [[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]]'s confusion). The Dinobots attack the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]], who are retrieving the Cybertonium, but the Dinobots simply get into the space bridge and head for Cybertron. Shockwave attempts to stop them. Guess what happens.

[[Image:DesertionDinobots1 car fly.JPG|right|200px|thumb|WHEEEEE!]]

At the Autobot base, Sparkplug contacts Grimlock, who refuses to return and help the "bossy Autobots". Carly resolves that she and Spike must head for Cybertron themselves. Prime attempts to stop them, but finally succumbs to the effects of Cybertonium depletion. Sparkplug stays to man [[Teletraan I (G1)|Teletraan I]] to help the kids. Spike and Carly manage to drive past [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] using Carly's car, but Shockwave is waiting for the two humans on the other side.

[[Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 2|To be continued...]]
{{-}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (1)
*[[Hound (G1)|Hound]] (2)
*[[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] (3)
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] (4)
*[[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] (6)
*[[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (8)
*[[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]] (13)
*[[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (18)
*[[Grimlock (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Grimlock]] (19)
*[[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]] (20)
*[[Slag (G1)|Slag]] (21)
*[[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]] (22)
*[[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]] (23)
*[[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]] (27)
*[[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] (28)
*[[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] (29)
*[[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] (30)
*[[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] (31)
*[[Grapple]] (32)
*[[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]] (33)

|c2=
*[[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] (7)
*[[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (9)
*[[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (10)
*[[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] (11)
*[[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (16)
*[[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] (17)
*[[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]] (24)
*[[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (25)
*[[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (26)
*[[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (34)
*[[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (35)
*[[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (36)
*[[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (37)
*[[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (38)
*[[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (39)
*[[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (40)
*[[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] (41)

|c3=
*[[Greene]] (5)
*[[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (12)
*[[Carly]] (14)
*[[Sparkplug Witwicky]] (15)
}}

==Quotes==
'''Wheeljack''': Dinobots, we got a job for you. 
'''Grimlock''': Me Grimlock no like orders. 
'''Slag''': Me Slag no like ''anything''. 
'''Wheeljack''': We really need your help. Why won't you give us a hand? 
'''Grimlock''': Me don't know why not. So we help. This time. 
'''Wheeljack''': I've ''got'' to work on their personality circuits. 
:—Wheeljack learns that even the Dinobots don't know why they have a bad attitude.

"So much for your secret hideout, Megatron; even the moronic Dinobots found it!"
:—'''Starscream''' as the Dinobots attack the Decepticons' airbase.

"Decepticons, CHARGE!"
:—'''Megatron''' decides to try a new tactic when losing.

"I warned you guys there was trouble!" 
"You always say there's trouble, Red."
:—'''Red Alert''' and '''Hoist'''

"It's the Aurobrroughs... THE AURRROOBBRRURURRUGHRRR!!!!"
:—'''Megatron''' after the effects of Cybertonium depletion busted his vocal circuits

"Hey, I'm stuck! I can't transform! [''Ironhide kicks him; Jazz transforms''] OW! Thanks...I think."
:—'''Jazz'''

'''Sparkplug''': The Autobots are dying, and only you can save them. 
'''Grimlock''': No care about Autobots! Me Grimlock Dinobot! 
'''Spike''': If you don't help, the Decepticons will get all the Cybertonium they need. 
'''Grimlock''': Cybertonium? Cybertron! Okay, us do it! 
'''Slag''': No! Us no want to. 
'''Sludge''': What he say? 
'''Grimlock''': Me Grimlock. Me leader! Me say us do it!
:—Grimlock's unassailable logic convince the Dinobots

[[Image:DesertionDinobots1 Shockwave Dinobots.JPG|right|150px|thumb|You Shockwave not so tough without black sticky stuff.]]
"Stowaways?! Stand back!" 
"WE NO STAND BACK!"
:—'''Shockwave''' and '''Grimlock''', right before the Dinobots kick Shockwave's [[Diode|diodes]].

"It's...too...risky! Ohh..."
:—'''Optimus Prime''' warns Spike and Carly of the danger of traveling to Cybertron alone, right before he nearly crushes them while passing out.

"I feel kinda stupid talking into my thumb."
: —'''Spike''' in agreement with the audience for the first and last time.

==Notes==
===Animation or technical errors===
* Despite the variety of engine sound effects, the experimental plane is just flying in a straight line in the first shot.
* Blaster's forehead is red (like the rest of his helmet) instead of white as Optimus gives the order to [[roll out]].
* Starscream's face is white instead of medium gray as he enters the lab facility.
* The scientist that Starscream tosses aside gets up and runs away, despite having been ''thrown'' a good 15 or 20 feet to the floor.
* Blaster's arm phases through Mirage's box-of-turning-invisible. While not physically impossible, he appears to be standing far enough in front of Mirage that the box should be behind him.
* After grabbing Megatron's cannon, Mirage reappears without his customary energy sound effect.
*The merry-go-round at the fair features horses that are suspended from the roof, rather than attached to floor-to-ceiling posts like a real carousel.
* The outside of the airport, where Bumblebee discharges his passengers and transforms, is ''completely deserted''. They seem to have wandered into the loading docks or something.
* Slag's face and head are gray instead of red as he says his "no like anything" line.
* The top of Starscream's cockpit cowling is yellow instead of gray as he scolds Megatron for retreating.
* Snarl appears to tear the entire hangar door apart, but after he moves past the "camera", we see that half the door is still intact.
* As Slag tears though the hangar door, by rights his hind end should be visible through the hole Snarl just made, but it only magically becomes visible as he walks through the hole he made.
* Blitzwing's head is purple instead of yellow just before he transforms to attack Bumblebee.
** And again after he falls out of the sky.
*** And again as Soundwave ejects Ravage at the power plant.
**** And ''again'' as the Decepticons try to retreat from the power plant. Was this an alternate color scheme or something?

* Megatron's audio appears to drop out for a second or two as he tosses Rumble aside; he says "Get... ...fool!" with timing that would be just right for the more explicable "Get off me, fool!"
*Thundercracker is miscolored as Starscream when Swoop attacks him.
* Spike, Carly and Sparkplug are inside the terminal when Megatron gets thrown into it. A second later, they're back on the flightline with the Dinobots.
* The sound crew missed the part where Hoist is ''towing'' the derelict airliner carrying the Dinobots; they applied what sounds like an idling jet engine noise over the scene.
* The building that Powerglide and Ironhide construct changes shape between shots, and doesn't appear to have any doors or windows. There's also a parked airplane practically on top of the foundation before they start laying bricks. Ironhide's method of brick-laying fails to put any mortar into the vertical brick joints. The bricks also go from regular bricks to concrete blocks between shots.
* Megatron's Decepticon symbol is missing after he bashes Rumble aside in the desert.
* Slag's head guards are white instead of red as he agrees with Grimlock's refusal of orders. (Should they be white? Yes, yes, no!)
* The energon cubes at the power plant are semi-glowing in a strange purple color, rather than the usual bright pink.
* Prime clips through the concrete fence at the power plant as the Autobots arrive to stop the Decepticons.
*Jazz is colored as Red Alert when the Autobots transform at the power station.
*Megatron's gun mode is entirely white when Starscream is about to shoot Optimus.
[[Image:Dotd1 sparkplug repairs wheeljack.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Just one little vertical line. Supposed to be over there on the right.]]
* Wheeljack is missing the little windshield line on the top/side of his chest as Prime answers Ironhide's question about what is happening to them. It's missing again as Sparkplug repairs him in the next scene.
* Red Alert has white tires on his shoulders in the first pan of the disabled Autobots at Autobot Headquarters.
* As Wheeljack says that Cybertonium is only found on Cybertron, his whole helmet is light gray instead of dark gray, rather than just his three "fins".
* Scrapper's vehicle mode ''bends'' like rubber as he backs away from the Dinobots.
* Scrapper has two eyes instead of his usual single visor as he turns to track Swoop.
* Long Haul's portion of Devastator is shown plopping into place... long after both he and Hook (who forms the part that comes ''after'' Long Haul) have already driven up and transformed.
*When the Dinobots first appear on Cybertron, Shockwave has both his hands. In the next scene, however, his left hand blaster is there. He was last seen with two hands back in "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]".
* Improbable viewpoints:
** Teletraan I kindly provides Sparkplug with a view of Grimlock ''inside [[Decepticon Headquarters (G1 Cybertron)|Decepticon Headquarters]] on Cybertron''!
* So... the sound guys have never seen a car before? They don't know what a car does? 'Cause they put in a flight sound effect as Carly's car vaults over Devastator's foot and into the space bridge ring.
* The animation of Shockwave reacting to and turning toward the space bridge elevator is recycled when Spike and Carly arrive. Not an explicit error by itself, but it creates a continuity disjoint with the next shot, as Shockwave abruptly goes from empty-handed to holding a blaster.
* There's nothing in the space bridge elevator when Shockwave blasts it.

===Continuity errors===
[[Image:Dotd1 sneakiest soundwave.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Seriously, Blaster doesn't recognize this guy by now?]]
[[Image:DesertionDinos1 BlastergrabsRavage.jpg|thumb|right|200px|And yet he doesn't seem surprised at all when this happens.]]
* The opening scene is bizarre. Soundwave is sitting in Ironhide's cargo compartment. Ironhide somehow failed to notice Soundwave climbing into him, and continues to fail to notice him sitting there. Blaster somehow fails to notice Soundwave sitting ''right in front of him''. Of particular note, in "[[Heavy Metal War]]" Ironhide is apparently able to detect the Decepticons by himself, without relying on Teletraan I.
*Considering the ultra plane was in full view of the Autobots and Dr. Green the whole time, how did none of them see Starscream flying over the fighter and dropping a bomb on top of it?
* We never do find out where Sparkplug is coming home from or what he was doing there in his snazzy blue suit.
* Bumblebee and Spike apparently just wander onto the airport's flightline, unquestioned, to investigate the Decepticon hangar.
* Superhumans Spike, Carly, and Sparkplug:
**Neither Spike nor Carly and Sparkplug are harmed by Megatron flying through a huge plate glass window right in front of them. (As noted above, they shouldn't even be there.)
* On a related note, though Bumblebee and the three humans are standing right next to the Dinobots, none of them are harmed by the planes exploding, while the Dinobots get blown to kingdom come.
* The Autobots lament having to repair the Dinobots using only tools available to them on Earth, despite having easily built them on Earth with those same tools.
* For some reason, Blitzwing blasting Jazz in the side causes a huge crevasse to open up beneath Jazz.
* The space bridge must have been seriously fine-tuned since its first appearance. The Dinobots make the trip just fine, despite appearing to flail about randomly as they make the trip. Even an Earthen automobile makes it through (and its human passengers survive, which means the space bridge portal has a pressurized atmosphere.) Previously, an unpiloted test vehicle vanished into the ether because it lacked guidance.
* Shockwave blasts the elevator door as Spike and Carly arrive on Cybertron, creating a huge explosion. They are only saved by power of retcon, as the next episode decides that the immediate firing and huge explosion simply didn't happen.

===Kid Rhino release===
*On the [[Kid Rhino]] DVDs, the visuals drop out completely for a second or so, replaced by a black screen, after Blaster's fight with Ravage. This error is also on the Madman Region 4 DVD.

===Continuity notes===
*This episode throws some confusion on the origin of the newer second-season characters such as Perceptor, Blaster, Blitzwing, etc. Previously it could be assumed they had simply arrived from Cybertron or some other planet. But the fact that their Cybertonium deteriorates in exact sync with the earlier characters suggests that they were also aboard the Ark and went through the same four million year slumber as the 1984 characters. Why we didn't see any of them for the first year is therefore a bit of a mystery within the context of the stories.
* The Dinobots' discontent was previously hinted at in "[[Atlantis, Arise!]]" and "[[Day of the Machines]]". They seemed much happier in the later two-parter "[[Dinobot Island]]".
* Apparently the Dinobots just stand around in their own little cubby hole in the Ark, waiting patiently for someone to open the door and talk to them. Which is strangely placid of them.
[[Image:Dotd1 malfunctioning ironhide.jpg|thumb|right|200px|You've got the touch! ]]
[[Image:DesertionDinobots1 Powerglide no head.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Some parts are made to detach if excessive force is applied. ]]
[[Image:G1Cartoon37 Generic.jpg|right|thumb|200px|A [[generic]] Transformer from Mirage's flashback. Perhaps one of his [[Mirage's friends|friends]]?]]
* Gadgets and powers:
** To prepare the viewer for the forthcoming mechanical failures of the Autobots, several of them use their stock powers, such as Jazz's [[sound and light show]] and Mirage's invisibility.
** To inspect the vault door, Soundwave retracts his hand and brings forth a three-pronged wirey sensor thing. It's only [[Soundwave (ROTF)|slightly creepy]].
** Carly switches off Bumblebee's equilibrium circuits by pressing a button inside his chest armor (which sure pops open easily. Bee had better hope the Decepticons don't find out about that feature.)
** Bumblebee uses a wrist communicator to radio Optimus. Though a common device for both sides, this one looks different than the more rectangular ones Bumblebee has used in the past—spheroid and with a little antenna on top.
** Inferno fires [[fire-retardant foam]] (or something like it) from a nozzle that emerges from a hatch on his cab (even though Inferno already sports several ''visible'' nozzles designed to serve the same purpose.)
** The deterioration of the Transformers' [[cybertonium]] leads to a series of mechanical failures:
*** Grapple apparently loses his fine motor control.
*** Megatron's audio circuits malfunction.
*** Soundwave spontaneously ejects Ravage.
*** The Decepticons lose their flight abilities.
*** Rumble can't stop himself from attacking Megatron.
*** Jazz can't transform, and later winds up half-car, half-robot.
*** Ironhide's hand won't retract to fire his liquid nitrogen.
*** Mirage only becomes black and white instead of invisible.
*** Ravage spontaneously returns to cassette mode in mid-battle.
*** Jazz's sound and light show fails to activate.
*** Blitzwing can't stop his own forward motion in tank mode.
*** Powerglide's head... falls off??
*The Constructicons appear to be functioning perfectly well in this episode. What this says about their origin controversy is unknown.
* We get treated to the one-time appearance of a uniquely designed Transformer on Cybertron. He's medium brown and appears to have Snarl's dinosaur tail halves on his back; he transforms to a purple flying saucer-like thing.
[[Image:ShockwaveDesertionOfTheDinobots1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|It is not logical to not have a blaster when you turn into that model of blaster.]]
*In the final scene, Shockwave fires a gun that looks exactly like his own [[alternate mode]]. (Presumably, the animators mistook his weapon mode for a hand-held weapon.) He also is shown with two hands in one shot, just like his very first appearance. Can he retract one and replace it with his familiar gun arm? Or is it just an animation screwup? You be the judge!
*This episode establishes that the Dinobots are better-armored in their beast modes.
* '''[[Dinobot Island, Part 2|< <]]''' What makes Starscream the leader? Megatron's blown his vocal components! '''[[Triple Takeover|> >]]'''

===Real world references===
* EJK, the facility where all the information on the Ultraplane is stored, is named for episode writer Earl J. Kress.
* This episode contains enough ''[[Star Wars (film)|Star Wars]]'' sound effects to make you think you're watching events in a galaxy far, far away:
** The opening shots of the experimental jet are soundtracked with diving X-Wings and the TIE Fighter engine roar.
** After exiting Ironhide's cargo compartment, Soundwave launches with the ''Millennium Falcon'' engine burst.
** Some ''Falcon'' ambient engine noise (flying over the surface of Yavin IV) is heard as Starscream flies toward the ultra plane.
** The ultra plane explosion is soundtracked with the Death Star firing sequence noise.
** ''Falcon'' engine burst as Megatron retreats from the lab.
** Death Star firing/Alderaan exploding again, as Thundercracker and Thrust take off to attack the Dinobots, followed by more X-Wings diving.
** ''Falcon'' engine burst again as the Transformer on Cybertron that Mirage watches on a monitor takes off.
** ''Falcon'' engine roar as Swoop dives to snatch Carly's car out from under Grimlock's foot.

===Trivia===
* The hangar that the Decepticons are hiding in is labeled "hangar" in huge white letters. This is so you know that it is, indeed, a hangar and not a [[Giant Decepticon insignia|well hidden Decepticon base]].
* Mirage totally goes toe-to-toe with Megatron and manages to hold his own for a bit. Impressive!
* Slag sounds strangely ''upbeat'' when he says "Me Slag no like anything."
* When the Dinobots leave the Autobot base, Sludge and Snarl appear much shorter than the others. If the Dinobots were at all consistent with the dinosaurs they are based on, Sludge should be much larger than the others (foreshortening perhaps?).
* A faint female voice can be heard moaning as Blaster and Soundwave rock the [[Ironhide (G1)|van]]...

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;VHS
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1986 — ''The Transformers'' — Desertion of the Dinobots ([[Video Gems|A.M.T. Video Gems]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1986 — ''Transformers'' — Desertion of the Dinobots ([[Channel 5]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1988 — ''The Transformers'' — Desertion of the Dinobots ([[Video Gems|V.I.P. Video Gems]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1990 — ''Transformers'' — Desertion of the Dinobots 3-D (Channel 5) 
[[Image:Flag of Canada.png|20px|Canada]] 1998 — ''The Transformers: Generation 2'' — Desertion of the Dinobots ([[Malofilm|Behaviour]])
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1994 — ''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' — Convoy Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1998 — ''The Transformers'' — Autobot Edition ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2001 — ''The Transformers'' — DVD Box 1 (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2002 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1 ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2002 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1: Vol. 4 (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2003 — ''Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Collection 2: Series 2.1 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of Italy.png|20px|Italy]] 2008 — ''Transformers'' — Volume 04: Stagione Due Parte Seconda ([[Medianetwork Communication]]) — English and Italian audio. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2009 — ''Transformers'' — Season Two: Part One (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Season Two, Volume One: 25th Anniversary Edition ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection (Shout! Factory)

==External links==
*[http://cybertronchronicle.freewebspace.com/cartoon-dossier/synopses/desertion_of_the_dinobots_part_1.html Dossier at the Cybertron Chronicle]

[[Category:Generation 1 episodes]]
[[Category:Generation 2 episodes]]

Transformers: More than Meets the Eye

2011-09-17T02:27:44Z

94.22.70.147: /* Omissions */

{{stub|Omitted Action Master vehicles and accessories; careful check for errors. We're getting close now!}}
{{disambig3|More than Meets the Eye}}
{{disambig2|the Dreamwave-produced bio series|the Marvel-produced bio series|Transformers Universe (Marvel comic)}}
[[Image:Mtmte-oiler.jpg|right|300px|thumb|True to form, [[Oiler]] looks like he's about to pass out.]]
'''''More Than Meets The Eye''''' is the first of a series of [[profile]] books published by [[Dreamwave Productions]] in [[2003]]. The book introduced readers to every character within the ''[[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]]'' continuity. A sequel series was published for ''[[More Than Meets The Eye (Armada)|Armada]]'', and the same was planned for ''[[Unreleased Dreamwave issues|Energon]]''.

The series has no known physical weaknesses.

==Overview==
Originally conceived to be a 4-issue series, ''Transformers Profile Book One'' was scheduled to be released in December, [[2002]]. After a name change and a delay of over four months, the series was released as eight issues in 2003. The series was also released as a 2-volume trade paperback edition in December [[2004]], which included introductions by the authors, and bonus artwork, though ''not'' the intro and conclusion story.

The series profiled all characters that were released by Hasbro between [[1984]] and [[1991]], as well as a few characters that appeared only within [[Marvel Comics]]/[[Sunbow Productions]] animated projects between 1984 and [[1987]]. The series also introduces new content in order to establish parameters for stories within the Dreamwave continuity, particularly in the "special topics" issue. A number of personalities were created from scratch for the Micromasters, many of whom were little more than toys and names prior.

The profiles follow the same format as the original 1980s Marvel profile book, ''[[Transformers Universe (Marvel comic)|Transformers Universe]]''. A characteristic quote leads off each bio, followed by Bio, Weapons/Abilities, and Weaknesses. Many profiles are told from the perspective of another character ("from the [[datatrax]] of"); [[Grapple]], for example, narrates the profile for his friend and associate [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]]. Despite initial reports that the profile book would be re-creating the entire Transformers universe from scratch, most established characters stay close to their original profiles, with some [[Thunderwing (G1)|occasional]] [[Carnivac (G1)|massaging]] when a character's popular fictional portrayals [[Bludgeon (G1)|clashed]] with their profile.

Artwork was done by numerous artists. As such, there are stylistic differences among the various profiles. Some of the original art submissions were rejected as not being consistent with the Dreamwave "house style", i.e. that of [[Pat Lee]]. Lee's hand and/or influence is particularly visible on some of the earlier and more popular characters, who often feature his characteristic rounded, swollen limbs, tiny heads, and enormously thickened metal panels. [[Don Figueroa]] drew a huge number of profile entries as well, including many of the best known characters. Lesser known characters were apparently left to other artists, who were allowed a freer hand; however, attempts at conveying a character's personality through their profile art were generally [[Blades (G1)|quashed]].

==Issue #1==
[[Image:DW MTMTE 1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|[[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] has the odd feeling of being followed.]]
Issue #1 opens with a one-page intro story in which [[Megatron (BW)|''Beast Wars'' Megatron]] (or the Dreamwave universe's version of him) gains access to [[Vector Sigma]], with the intent of reading all these files. 
'''Originally published:''' [[April 30]], 2003

{{collist|3|
* [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]]
** [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]]
** [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]]
** [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]]
** [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]]
** [[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]]
** [[Superion (G1)|Superion]]
* [[Airwave]] and his [[airport]]
* [[Alpha Trion (G1)|Alpha Trion]]
* [[Apeface]] with [[Spasma]]
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]]
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]]
* [[Axer]] and his [[Turbo Cycle]]
* [[Backstreet (G1)|Backstreet]]
* [[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[Razor-Sharp]]
* [[Barrage (Micromaster)|Barrage]]
* [[Barricade (G1)|Barricade]]
* [[Battletrap]]
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]]
* [[Beastbox (G1)|Beastbox]]
* [[Big Daddy (G1)|Big Daddy]]
* [[Big Hauler]]
* [[Big Shot]]
* [[Blackjack]]
* [[Blackout (G1)|Blackout]]
* [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]]
* [[Blast Master]]
* [[Blaze Master]]
* [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]]
* [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] (2 pages)
* [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]]
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]]
* [[Bomb-Burst (G1)|Bomb-Burst]] (2 pages)
* [[Bombshock (G1)|Bombshock]]
* [[Brainstorm]] with [[Arcana]]
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]]
* [[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]]
* [[Bugly]] (2 pages)
* [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]]
* [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]
* [[Camshaft (G1)|Camshaft]]
* [[Carnivac (G1)|Carnivac]] (2 pages)
* [[Catilla (G1)|Catilla]] (2 pages)
* [[Cement-Head]] with the [[Cannon Transport]]
* [[Chainclaw (G1)|Chainclaw]] (2 pages)
* [[Chase (G1)|Chase]]
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] with [[Stylor]]
* [[Cindersaur]]
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]]
* [[Cloudburst]] (2 pages)
* [[Cloudraker (G1)|Cloudraker]]
* [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]]
** [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]]
** [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]]
** [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]]
** [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]]
** [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]]
** [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]]}}

==Issue #2==
[[Image:DW MTMTE 2.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Dudes, we're free - FREE!]]
'''Originally published:''' [[May 29]], 2003

{{collist|3|
* [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]]:
** [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]]
** [[Hook (G1)|Hook]]
** [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]]
** [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]]
** [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]]
** [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]]
** [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]
* [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]]
* [[Countdown (G1)|Countdown]] and his [[Rocket Base|rocket base]] (2 pages)
* [[Crankcase (G1)|Crankcase]]
* [[Crossblades (G1)|Crossblades]] (2 pages)
* [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]]
* [[Crumble]]
* [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]]
* [[Darkwing]] and [[Throttle (G1)|Throttle]]
* [[Detour (G1)|Detour]]
* [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]]:
** [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] (2 pages)
** [[Slag (G1)|Slag]]
** [[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]]
** [[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]]
** [[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]]
* [[Direct-Hit (G1)|Direct-Hit]]
* [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]]
* [[Dogfight]]
* [[Doublecross]]
* [[Doubledealer]] with [[Knok]] and [[Skar]] (2 pages)
* [[Doubleheader]] (2 pages)
* [[Downshift (G1)|Downshift]]
* [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]] with [[Hi-Test]]
* [[Dropshot (G1)|Dropshot]]
* [[Eagle Eye (G1)|Eagle Eye]]
* [[Eject]]
* [[Erector (G1)|Erector]] and his [[crane]]
* [[Excavator (G1)|Excavator]]
* [[Fangry]] with [[Brisko]]
* [[Fastlane]]
* [[Finback]] (2 pages)
* [[Fireshot (G1)|Fireshot]]
* [[Fixit (G1)|Fixit]]
* [[Fizzle]]
* [[Flak (G1)|Flak]]
* [[Flamefeather]]
* [[Flattop (Decepticon)|Flattop]] and his [[aircraft carrier]]
* [[Flywheels]]
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] with [[Cog (G1)|Cog/Gasket/Grommet]], [[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], and [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] (3 pages)
* [[Free Wheeler|Freewheeler]]
* [[Freeway (G1)|Freeway]]
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
* [[Full-Barrel]]
* [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] (2 pages)
* [[Gears (G1)|Gears]]
* [[Getaway]] with [[Rev]]
* [[Gnaw]]
* [[Bumblebee (G1)|Goldbug]]
* [[Grand Slam (G1)|Grand Slam]]}}

==Issue #3==
[[Image:DW MTMTE 3.jpg|right|200px|thumb|By Primus, [[Fandom|they're]] everywhere! Don't let them touch you with their fat greasy hands!]]
'''Originally published:''' [[June 25]], 2003

{{collist|3|
* [[Grapple]]
* [[Greasepit (G1)|Greasepit]] with his [[gas station]]
* [[Greaser]]
* [[Grit (G1)|Grit]]
* [[Grotusque]]
* [[Ground Hog]]
* [[Groundbreaker]] (2 pages)
* [[Groundpounder]]
* [[Groundshaker]] with his [[ATV]]
* [[Growl (G1)|Growl]]
* [[Gunrunner (G1)|Gunrunner]] (2 pages)
* [[Gusher]]
* [[Gutcruncher (G1)|Gutcruncher]] with his [[Stratotronic Jet]]
* [[Guzzle (G1)|Guzzle]]
* [[Half-Track (G1)|Half-Track]]
* [[Hammer (G1)|Hammer]]
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] and [[Duros]]
* [[Heave]]
* [[Heavy Tread]]
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] and [[Gort]]
* [[Highjump (G1)|Highjump]]
* [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]]
* [[Horri-Bull]] and [[Kreb]]
* [[Hosehead]] and [[Lug]]
* [[Hot House]] with his [[fire station]]
* [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]]
* [[Hound (G1)|Hound]]
* [[Hubcap (G1)|Hubcap]]
* [[Hubs]]
* [[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]]
* [[Hydraulic]]
* [[Hyperdrive (Micromaster)|Hyperdrive]]
* [[Iguanus (G1)|Iguanus]] (2 pages)
* [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]
* [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]]:
** [[Barrage (Insecticon)|Barrage]]
** [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]]
** [[Chop Shop]]
** [[Kickback (G1)|Kickback]]
** [[Ransack (G1)|Ransack]]
** [[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]]
** [[Venom (G1)|Venom]]
* [[Ironworks|Iron Works]] with his [[Construction station|communications station]]
* [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]]
* [[Jackpot (G1)|Jackpot]] with [[Sights]]
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]]
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]]
* [[Joyride (G1)|Joyride]] with [[Hotwire]]
* [[Kick-Off (G1)|Kick-Off]] with his [[Turbo-Pack]]
* [[Knockout (G1)|Knockout]]
* [[Krok (G1)|Krok]] with [[Gatoraider]]
* [[Kup (G1)|Kup]]
* [[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] with [[Silencer]] and [[Flintlock]]
* [[Landmine (G1)|Landmine]] (2 pages)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]]
* [[Longtooth]] (2 pages)
* [[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[Push-Button]]
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (3 pages - includes Cybertronian forms)}}

==Issue #4==
[[Image:DW MTMTE 4.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Attack of the Stay-puffed Transformers]]
'''Originally published:''' [[July 30]], 2003

{{collist|3|
* [[Meltdown (G1)|Meltdown]]
* [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] with [[Six-Gun]], [[Slammer]] and [[Scamper]] (3 pages)
* [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] and [[Vorath]]
* [[Mini-spy|Mini-Spies]] (4 models - 2 pages)
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]]
* [[Misfire]] and [[Aimless]]
* [[Missile Master]]
* [[Moonrock]]
* [[Motorhead (Decepticon)|Motorhead]]
* [[Mudslinger (G1)|Mudslinger]]
* [[Needlenose]] with [[Sunbeam]] and [[Zigzag]]
* [[Neutro]]
* [[Nightbeat (G1)|Nightbeat]] with [[Muzzle]]
* [[Nightflight (G1)|Nightflight]]
* [[Octane]]
* [[Octopunch]] (2 pages)
* [[Oiler]]
* [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] (2 pages)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (2 pages)
* [[Outback (G1)|Outback]]
* [[Overdrive]]
* [[Overflow]]
* [[Overkill (G1)|Overkill]]
* [[Overload (G1)|Overload]] with his [[car carrier trailer]]
* [[Override (G1)|Override]]
* [[Over-Run (G1)|Over-Run]] with his [[Attack Copter]]
* [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]]
* [[Phaser]]
* [[Pincher]] (2 pages)
* [[Pipeline]]
* [[Pipes (G1)|Pipes]]
* [[Pointblank]] with [[Peacemaker]]
* [[Pounce]]
* [[Power Punch (G1)|Power Punch]]
* [[Powerdasher|Powerdashers]] (3 models)
* [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]]
* [[Power Run]]
* [[Powertrain]]
* [[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]]:
** [[Divebomb (G1)|Divebomb]]
** [[Headstrong]]
** [[Rampage (G1)|Rampage]]
** [[Razorclaw (G1)|Razorclaw]]
** [[Tantrum]]
** [[Predaking]]
* [[Pretender Monster|Pretender Monsters]]:
** [[Birdbrain]] (2 pages)
** [[Bristleback]] (2 pages)
** [[Icepick (G1)|Icepick]] (2 pages)
** [[Scowl]] (2 pages)
** [[Slog]] (2 pages)
** [[Wildfly]] (2 pages)
** [[Monstructor (G1)|Monstructor]]}}

==Issue #5==
[[Image:DW MTMTE 5.jpg|right|200px|thumb|[[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] makes any cover awesome!]]
'''Originally published:''' [[September 4]], 2003

{{collist|3|
* [[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobots]]:
** [[Blades (G1)|Blades]]
** [[First Aid (G1)|First Aid]]
** [[Groove (G1)|Groove]]
** [[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Spot]]
** [[Streetwise (G1)|Streetwise]]
** [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]]
* [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]]
* [[Punch (G1)|Punch/Counterpunch]] (2 pages)
* [[Quake (G1)|Quake]] with [[Tiptop]] and [[Heater]]
* [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] with [[Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (G1)|Ricochet]]
* [[Quickswitch]] (2 pages)
* [[Rad]] with [[Lionizer]]
* [[Raindance]]
* [[Ramhorn (G1)|Ramhorn]]
* [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]
* [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]]
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]]
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]]
* [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]]
* [[Red Hot]]
* [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]]:
** [[Spectro]]
** [[Spyglass]]
** [[Viewfinder]]
* [[Repugnus (G1)|Repugnus]]
* [[Retro]]
* [[Rewind]]
* [[Road Hugger (G1)|Road Hugger]]
* [[Roadblock (G1)|Roadblock]] (2 pages)
* [[Roadburner]]
* [[Roadbuster (G1)|Roadbuster]]
* [[Roadgrabber]] (2 pages)
* [[Roadhandler (G1)|Road Handler]]
* [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]]
* [[Rollbar (G1)|Rollbar]]
* [[Roller Force]]
* [[Rollout (G1)|Rollout]] with [[Glitch]]
* [[Roughstuff]] and his [[military transport]]
* [[Ruckus (G1)|Ruckus]]
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]
* [[Runabout (G1)|Runabout]]
* [[Runamuck (G1)|Runamuck]]
* [[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]]
* [[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Nebulan)|Tracer]]
* [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] with [[Zarak (G1)|Zarak]] and [[Fasttrack (Scorponok)|Fasttrack]]
* [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]]
* [[Seacon (G1)|Seacons]]:
** [[Nautilator]]
** [[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]]
** [[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]]
** [[Skalor]]
** [[Snaptrap (G1)|Snaptrap]]
** [[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]]
** [[Piranacon (G1)|Piranacon]]
* [[Searchlight (G1)|Searchlight]]
* [[Seaspray (G1)|Seaspray]]
* [[Seawatch]]
* [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] (2 pages)
* [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]]
* [[Sidetrack]]}}

==Issue #6==
[[Image:DW MTMTE 6.jpg|right|200px|thumb|]]
'''Originally published:''' [[September 24]], 2003

{{collist|3|
* [[Siren]] with [[Quig]]
* [[Sixshot]] (2 pages)
* [[Sizzle (G1)|Sizzle]]
* [[Skids (G1)|Skids]]
* [[Skullcruncher]] with [[Grax]]
* [[Skullgrin]] (2 pages)
* [[Sky High (Pretender)|Sky High]] (2 pages)
* [[Sky High (Micromaster)|Sky High]]
* [[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]]
* [[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[Top-Heavy]]
* [[Skyhammer (G1)|Skyhammer]] (2 pages)
* [[Skyhopper]] with his [[helicopter]]
* [[Skystalker (G1)|Skystalker]] with his [[interstellar shuttle]]
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]
* [[Slamdance (G1)|Slamdance]]
* [[Sledge (G1)|Sledge]]
* [[Slide]]
* [[Slow Poke]]
* [[Slugfest (G1)|Slugfest]]
* [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]]
* [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]]
* [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] with [[Krunk]]
* [[Snarler]] (2 pages)
* [[Slapdash (G1)|Slapdash]] with [[Lube]]
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]
* [[Spaceshot]]
* [[Sparkstalker]]
* [[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] with [[Hairsplitter]] and [[Singe]]
* [[Splashdown]] (2 pages)
* [[Springer (G1)|Springer]]
* [[Sprocket (G1)|Sprocket]] with his [[Attack Cruiser]]
* [[Squawkbox]]
* [[Squawktalk]]
* [[Squeezeplay]] with [[Lokos]]
* [[Stakeout (G1)|Stakeout]]
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]
* [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]]
* [[Stonecruncher (G1)|Stonecruncher]]
* [[Storm Cloud]]
* [[Stranglehold]] (2 pages)
* [[Strikedown]]
* [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]]:
** [[Breakdown (G1)|Breakdown]]
** [[Drag Strip (G1)|Drag Strip]]
** [[Dead End (G1)|Dead End]]
** [[Motormaster (G1)|Motormaster]]
** [[Wildrider (G1)|Wildrider]]
** [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]]
* [[Submarauder (G1)|Submarauder]] (2 pages)
* [[Sunrunner]]
* [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]]
* [[Surge (G1)|Surge]]
* [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[Spoilsport]]
* [[Swerve (G1)|Swerve]]
* [[Swindler]]
* [[Tailgate (G1)|Tailgate]]
* [[Tailspin]]}}

==Issue #7==
[[Image:DW MTMTE 7.jpg|right|200px|thumb|]]
'''Originally published:''' [[October 29]], 2003

{{collist|3|
* [[Tailwind (G1)|Tailwind]]
* [[Takedown]]
* [[Technobot (G1)|Technobots]]:
** [[Afterburner (G1)|Afterburner]]
** [[Lightspeed (G1 Technobot)|Lightspeed]]
** [[Nosecone (G1)|Nosecone]]
** [[Scattershot (G1)|Scattershot]]
** [[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]]
** [[Computron (G1)|Computron]]
* [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]]:
** [[Blot (G1)|Blot]]
** [[Cutthroat (G1)|Cutthroat]]
** [[Hun-Gurrr]]
** [[Rippersnapper (G1)|Rippersnapper]]
** [[Sinnertwin (G1)|Sinnertwin]]
** [[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]]
* [[Terror-Tread]] with the [[Cannon Transport]]
* [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]]
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]]
* [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] (2 pages)
* [[Topspin (G1)|Topspin]]
* [[Tote]]
* [[Tracer (Decepticon)|Tracer]]
* [[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]]
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]]
* [[Tread Bolt]]
* [[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[Catgut]]
* [[Triggerhappy]] with [[Blowpipe (G1)|Blowpipe]]
* [[Trip-Up]]
* [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]] with [[Full-Tilt]] and [[Brunt (G1)|Brunt]]
* [[Twin Twist]]
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (2 pages)
* [[Vanquish (G1)|Vanquish]]
* [[Vroom]] (2 pages)
* [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]]
* [[Waverider]] (2 pages)
* [[Weirdwolf]] with [[Monzo]]
* [[Wheel Blaze|Wheelblaze]]
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]]
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]]
* [[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]]
* [[Whisper (G1)|Whisper]]
* [[Wide Load|Wideload]]
* [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]]
* [[Windsweeper]]
* [[Wingspan]]
* [[Wreck-Gar (G1)|Wreck-Gar]]
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[Haywire]]
* Pretender [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] (2 pages)
* [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (Cyclonus)|Nightstick]]
* Pretender [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] (2 pages)
* [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] with [[Firebolt]]
* Pretender [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (2 pages)
* [[Kup (G1)|Kup]] with [[Recoil]]
* Powermaster [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] with [[Ginrai]]
* [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[Fracas]]
* Pretender [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (2 pages)}}

==Issue #8==
[[Image:DW MTMTE 8.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Oh yea Galvy, you know how I like it!]]
'''Originally published:''' [[December 3]], 2003 
Includes a one-page conclusion to the Megatron story begun in issue 1.

{{collist|3|
* [[Ark (G1)|The ''Ark'']] (2 pages)
* [[Autobot|Autobots]] (3 pages)
* [[Cloning|Cloning Technology]]
* [[Combiner|Combiners]] (2 pages)
* [[CR chamber|CR chambers]] / [[Stasis pod|stasis pods]]
* [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] (6 pages)
** [[Iacon (polity)|Iacon]]
** [[Kaon]]
** [[Protoform|Protoforms]]
** [[Transformation]]
* Cybertronian martial arts (2 pages):
** [[Circuit-Su]]
** [[Crystalocution]]
** [[Diffusion]]
** [[Metallikato]]
** [[Pit fighting]]
* [[Decepticon|Decepticons]] (3 pages)
* [[Earth]] (2 pages)
* [[Energon (fuel)|Energon]]
* Energon-based weaponry
* [[The Fallen]] (2 pages)
* [[Gladiatorial combat]]
* The [[Great Shutdown]]
* [[Guardian robot|Guardian robots]] (3 pages)
* [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] (2 pages)
* [[Junkion (planet)|Junk]] and [[Junkion (species)|Junkion]] (2 pages)
* The [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]] (2 pages)
* [[Micromaster|Micromasters]]
** Autobot [[Battlefield Headquarters]]
** Decepticon [[Anti-Aircraft Base]]
** Autobot [[Missile Launcher]] Transport
* [[Nebulos|Nebulon]]
* [[Nemesis (G1)|The ''Nemesis'']] (3 pages)
* [[Powermaster|Powermasters]]
* [[Pretender|Pretenders]]
* [[Quintessa]] and [[Quintesson|Quintessons]] (2 pages)
* Shockwave's experiments:
** [[Duocon|Duocons]]
** [[Triple Changer|Triple Changers]]
* [[Size changing|Size/mass change]]
* [[Space bridge]]
* [[Spark|Sparks]]
* Special abilities (3 pages)
** [[Laser scalpel|Laser scalpels]]
** [[Teleportation]]
** Chemical spray
** Invisibility
** Telepathy
** [[Force field]]
** [[Null-ray|Null ray]]
** Super-speed
** Common enhancements
* [[Targetmaster|Targetmasters]]
* [[Transwarp Drive]]
* [[Unicron]] (2 pages)
* [[Vector Sigma]]
* [[Wrecker|Wreckers]]
* Glossary (2 pages)}}

==Omissions==
[[Image:WingthingDreamwave.jpg|right|150px|thumb|"Don't worry pal, I know who you are."]]
* While ''More Than Meets The Eye'' featured Action Masters, it did not include Action Master versions of pre-1990 characters and therefore also not their [[:Category:Action Master partners|partners]]. Thus the guide omits the following US characters entirely: [[Fistfight (G1)|Fistfight]], [[Scorpulator]], ([[Turbo Board]],) [[Tyrannitron]], and [[Wingthing (G1)|Wingthing]]. This becomes goofier with the collected editions; due to their choice of [[20th Anniversary Lithograph|artwork]], Wingthing appears on the back cover but not in the actual books.

* Gasket and Grommet are not shown as separate vehicles, only in their combined form as [[Cog (G1)|Cog]].

* Weapon modes are not shown for [[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]]'s Targetmaster partners [[Tracer (Nebulan)|Tracer]] and [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]].

* Combined vehicle modes are not shown for the [[Mega Pretender|Mega Pretenders]] ([[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]], [[Vroom]] and [[Crossblades (G1)|Crossblades]]).

* [[Ultra Pretender|Ultra Pretenders]] [[Roadblock (G1)|Roadblock]] and [[Skyhammer (G1)|Skyhammer]] are both missing their outer vehicular shells, though both are mentioned in the text.

* Base mode is not shown for the [[ATV]].

* Only one-half of the [[Cannon Transport]] is shown (the same half, in mobile artillery mode, is shown with both partners.) Its base and combined transport modes are not shown at all.

* Mobile artillery and combined transport modes are not shown for the [[Missile Launcher]].

* The [[Tanker Truck]] is not shown at all, either with its respective Micromasters or in the Micromasters reference section.

* The [[Anti-Aircraft Base]]'s tank mode is not shown.

* Base and flight modes are not shown for the [[Battlefield Headquarters]].

* Powermaster Optimus Prime's smaller robot form is not shown.

==Errors and critiques==
[[Image:Eagleeyes.jpg|thumb|200px|The shame of it is, that's perfectly good art of G2 Eagle Eye.]][[Image:Mtmte-yeahright.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Surrrrrre he can turn into that truck.]]
[[Image:RavageCassetteDreamwaveMTMTE.jpg|right|200px|thumb|The perfect disguise: a panther box.]]
[[Image:StarscreamBioPicMTMTEDreamwave.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Pat Lee's Starscream. Wait, why's everyone laughing?]]

*In issue #2, [[Eagle Eye (G1)|Eagle Eye]] was drawn with his [[Eagle Eye (G2)|''Generation 2'' Decepticon namesake]]'s jet mode. For the TPB, the art was edited somewhat to look more like the G1 character.

*In the trade paperback edition, the picture of Wingspan in robot mode has an Autobot [[insignia]].

*The character models for Blackout and Spaceshot were reversed, so that Spaceshot was portrayed as the front half of their combined vehicle mode and Blackout as the rear half. This error carried over into the bio text as well, so it is entirely possible that the personality assigned to Spaceshot was intended for Blackout, and vice versa. This error was never corrected, and may account for [[Blackout (Animated)|''Animated'' Blackout]]'s Spaceshotty color scheme.

* Not an error per se, but the alphabetization is inconsistent. Earlier subgroups like the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]], the [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]], and the combiner teams are alphabetized by their subgroup names, while the [[Micromaster]] teams are split up by individuals.

* Likewise, Micromaster bases are inconsistently shown. Some appear with their owners; of these, many are only shown in one configuration. Others only show up in the special topics issue.

* Many characters had their art drawn by multiple artists, with Dreamwave's editors picking the versions they liked best. For example, [[Blades (G1)|Blades]] also had artwork drawn for him by [[Matt Kuphaldt]] that was not used for the final product.<ref name="jackpot">[http://www.spektakle.com/ Artist Matt Kuphaldt's online portfolio], containing profile art for MTMTE not used for the final book.</ref> That doesn't necessarily mean what ended up being published was always the best ''quality'' art, though that's a highly subjective matter. What's ''not'' a subjective matter, however, is the fact that what was ultimately selected by the editors often resulted in different artists' artwork being used for the same characters' robot and [[alternate mode]]s in many instances, leading to some glaring incongruities when the two modes appear side-by-side. For example, the angled windshield on [[Oiler]]'s robot-mode chest (pictured at the top of this article) is a nearly-flat windshield on his truck mode. [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (pictured above) has a similar problem as well as differently styled windows. [[Bumblebee (G1)|Goldbug]] is drawn by [[Joe Ng]] as a very angular robot, whereas the vehicle mode is a very accurate rendition of a classic Volkswagen Beetle. Bumblebee's alternate mode, by contrast, bears only very vague resemblance to both a classic Beetle and a New Beetle.

* In addition, artwork for characters' alternate modes is, on occasion, a maddeningly literal drawing based on their toy, instead of any kind of accurate, in-universe representation of the actual object they transformed into. [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]]'s tape mode, for instance, is more of a folded-up-robot mode than an actual cassette tape.

* Most of the Pretender shell penciling and colouring is ridiculously basic, but yet the Pretender Monster shells feature highly detailed pencils and colours (though their robot art suffers from the "literally being based on the toy" problem).

* Frustratingly, some of the best-known characters such as Megatron, Fortress Maximus, Jetfire and Octane have some of the poorest artwork.

* In the IDW collected edition, at least, Darkwing's robot mode art has been incorrectly photoshopped with one image over the other, leaving him with an extra-thick torso, too many fins on the back and four arms, amongst other errors.

==Notes==
*''More Than Meets The Eye'' was originally to be outsourced by Dreamwave and meant to be written by [[Destination Entertainment]], under the title of ''Transformers: Profiles''. Destination's rather grandiose original plans involved weaving their own take on the Dreamwave timeline passively throughout all the character profiles, seizing this opportunity to shape some of the then-contemporary fiction since presumably they were being kept well away from contributing anything in the main books. Destination's timeline was to have been a remarkably convoluted creation, having each original year of Transformers characters originating with each millennium of the war (with even the very definition of millennium here being stretched to "every million Cybertronian years"). The 1984 characters would originate in the first millennium, the 1985 ones in the second, and so on, despite this idea ''already'' being contradicted by books Dreamwave [[The War Within|had already published]] at the time.<ref>[http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=563 Destination's original interview previewing Profiles at Newsarama]</ref> (and not making even remotely one lick of sense either way, as it would mean that, for instance, Kup would have been younger than Bumblebee). Additionally, explanations as to how characters such Galvatron, Goldbug and Powermaster Optimus Prime could exist at the same time as their original counterparts were not forthcoming. Needless to say, three months later Destination was removed from the project and the entire endeavor was re-solicited as a far more modest and uncomplicated series of ''Transformers: Universe''-style profiles.<ref>[http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=711 Newsarama reports that Profiles has "transformed" into More Than Meets The Eye]</ref>

*The original version of issue 3's cover depicted [[Bumblebee (G1)|Goldbug]], whose profile was published in issue 2, rather than [[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]].<ref name="brooks1">[http://diablo2003.deviantart.com/art/Transformers-covers-143973822 Mark Brooks' original cover artwork for MTMTE #s 3 and 4] on Deviantart</ref>

*During the time that the Dreamwave were releasing the individual issues it became known that they only ever had the rights to release Transformers comics in North America. With immediate effect supply of Transformers comics to foreign countries was stopped. This left international Transfans with only a partially completed run of MTMTE, and having to resort to other methods to acquire the remainder.

*Additional profiles for characters such as [[Sunstorm (G1)|Sunstorm]] (rather notably absent in the MTMTE profile books) and the [[Female Autobots]] were to be released in [[Unreleased Dreamwave issues|Generation One 2004 Datatracks Annual]]. However, Dreamwave went bankrupt before it would be produced.

*As alluded to below, the covers for the collected editions are... odd. Megatron and Optimus's bios are both in Volume 1, but Megatron is on the cover of Volume 2. However, Optimus ''does'' have a profile in Volume 2 for his Powermaster form. Likely, Optimus was used first for marketing reasons.

==Collections==
[[Image:MTMTECollectionCoversDW.JPG|right|250px|thumb|Unsurprisingly, Megatron's bio is actually in Volume 1.]]
Dreamwave released two trade paperbacks (TPB) of the entire collection. Volume 1 contained issues 1-4, Volume 2 contained issues 5-8. No changes were made to the order of articles, and as such the same criticisms apply. Both volumes are quite rare, and as a result can be expensive to acquire. It is much easier to obtain the original individual issues.

* DW Volume 1: [[October 27]], 2004 (ISBN 0973381760, ISBN 978-0973381764)
* DW Volume 2: [[December 8]], 2004 (ISBN 0973381779, ISBN 978-0973381771)

[[IDW Publishing]] have reprinted the ''Generation 1'' guides. Despite the considerably different IDW-specific plots (such as the [[Dead Universe]], Galvatron's new origin, and the considerably different history, geography and political landscape of Cybertron) the collections have been released unchanged from the Dreamwave originals (and thus reference the DW plots of the Great Shutdown, Shockwave's inventions of the Triple Changers, Duocons etc).

*IDW Volume 1: [[September 29]], [[2008]] (ISBN 1600102506, ISBN 978-1600102509)
*IDW Volume 2: [[December 25]], 2008 (ISBN 1600102956, ISBN 978-1600102950)

==References==
<references/>

==External Links==
*[http://www.tfarchive.com/comics/dreamwave/guide/?s=mtmte Guide at TFArchive.com]

[[Category:Dreamwave titles]]
[[Category:Generation 1 comic series]]
[[Category:Profile books]]

Back from the Dead

2011-09-16T05:01:53Z

94.22.70.147: /* Items of note */

{{comicstory|seriesissue=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|''The Transformers'' (US)]] #56
|prev=The Interplanetary Wrestling Championship!
|next=The Resurrection Gambit!
|title=Back from the Dead
|seriesissue2=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel UK|''The Transformers'' (UK)]] #240–242
|prev2=A Savage Place!
|next2=Out to Lunch!
|image=MarvelUS-56.jpg
|caption=Oh boy! ''More'' Micromasters!
|publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]
|date=May 1989
|coverdate=September 1989
|story=[[Simon Furman]]
|pencils=[[José Delbo]]
|inks=[[Dave Hunt]]
|color=[[Nelson Yomtov|Nel Yomtov]]
|letters=[[Jim Massara]]
|editing=[[Don Daley]]
|continuity=[[Marvel Comics continuity]]
}}

'''Some British guy starts writing the title. This won't last...'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:Zombiesbackfromthedead.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Blaster's not dead, he's just a Headmaster!]]
In Ratchet's nightmares, the dead walk. Because he has failed to restore them to life, they have become the un-life, and thirst for his spark. As the scrambling corpses pile over him, Ratchet decides he deserves to die for his failure, and gives in to his attackers as they violently — RATCHET!!

Suddenly, he startles awake. Optimus Prime has come into the medical bay and shaken Ratchet out of involuntary systems shut-down. Prime has been desperate to replenish his ranks after [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]'s rampage through their forces, but he starts to realize how much of an effect the stress has had on Ratchet. He orders the surgeon to take some downtime, but worries his demand for troops might have already damaged Ratchet's sanity. Ratchet, in turn, shows that he has hardly been comforted by Prime's pep-talk, and laments the lack of any real advanced medical technology, like he's heard exists on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] now.

Meanwhile, on that very planet, a mysterious figure is addressing the [[Micromaster]] [[Sports Car Patrol]]. As these tiny [[Decepticon|Decepticons]] demonstrate they are ready for their covert mission and show off their faction-switching insignias, the figure contacts his other agents on [[Earth]], the [[Air Strike Patrol]], and tells them to begin their part of the mission.

The Air Strike Patrol stages an attack at [[MacDill Air Force Base]], taking the humans hostage while making empty demands for the new mid-air refueling jet being unveiled. Unknown to all involved, their only true purpose is to get the [[Autobot|Autobots]]' attention. They succeed. Despite their low numbers, Optimus Prime feels compelled to gather a strike team and take a shuttle down to Earth to defend the humans.

With the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] virtually deserted, the Sports Car Patrol teleports in using a new [[Trans-Time Dimensional Portal|trans-time dimensional portal]]. Working from a nearby circuit panel, Blackjack reprograms some crucial systems to give him remote control over the fallen Autobots. He animates them and provides a voice in order to physically and psychologically batter Ratchet into submission. With his recent nightmares coming to life around him, Ratchet almost submits to his attackers, but manages to shake loose his guilt and fight back. He breaks free and prepares to hit the emergency cut-off switch to short-circuit the "zombies", but hesitates at doing any more damage to their systems.

Fortunately for Ratchet, the choice is taken out of his hands. Blackjack's psychological torture was supposed to force Ratchet to tear apart his fallen comrades with his bare hands in order to survive, breaking him mentally. Instead, the Micromaster is forced to shut down the reanimates before they kill Ratchet, and he ceases to be of any use. Time for Plan B. Stepping out of the shadows, Blackjack and friends introduce themselves as the Autobot Sports Car Patrol. Claiming to be on their way back to Cybertron, the Micromasters offer to take Ratchet with them and let him make use of their shiny new med-tech.

Ready to jump at the chance, Ratchet quickly attempts to contact Optimus Prime and receive permission. Static on the line prevents him from getting through, however. Ratchet decides to go to Cybertron anyway, and brings the bodies of [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]], [[Bumblebee (G1)|Goldbug]], and [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] with him to be the first revitalized. He immediately realizes his mistake when the Patrol leaves Blackjack behind on the Ark, though, and his suspicions are confirmed when the Micromasters turn their guns on him as they rematerialize. Whatever worries he had, they are soon trumped by the arrival of his old nemesis... Megatron!

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] (1)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] (2)
* [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] (13)
* [[Getaway]] (14)
|c2=
* [[Detour (G1)|Detour]] (3)
* [[Hyperdrive (Micromaster)|Hyperdrive]] (4)
* [[Blackjack]] (5)
* [[Road Hugger (G1)|Road Hugger]] (6)
* [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] (7)
* [[Tailwind (G1)|Tailwind]] (8)
* [[Whisper (G1)|Whisper]] (9)
* [[Nightflight (G1)|Nightflight]] (10)
* [[Storm Cloud]] (11)
|c3=
* General [[James Campbell]] (12)
}}

==Errors==
* There are several glitches on page 4. It is apparently supposed to be Road Hugger who says "Right on!", as the next text bubble suggests, and Blackjack discussing the need for subtlety and sneakiness in that panel and the next. Also, the text bubble about what Blackjack excels in would make more sense switched with the one about changing their symbols.
* Even assuming he got suspicious at the end, Ratchet is not very bright. Someone reanimates the fallen Autobots by remote control and turns them against him, then, out of nowhere, some Transformers he's never seen before step out of the hallway and offer to take him on a magical journey. Right — when was the last time you EVER saw an Autobot wearing purple?
* There are a few problems with page 15 as well. The third panel seems to suggest Road Hugger remains on the Ark. However, two panels later, he is shown with Detour and Hyperdrive on Cybertron. Also, Ratchet asks "Why aren't ''they'' coming with us?", but only Blackjack is actually left behind.
* On the last page, Yomtov colored one of Ratchet's hands red and the other one black. Way to go, Nel.
* Blaster's corpse is consistently drawn with a damaged left arm, yet when he was killed in US issue [[Dark Star (issue)|#50]] (which was also penciled by Delbo) he only had a chest wound.

==Items of note==
[[Image:DelboAirStrikePatrolSwipe1.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Well, at least he got a little creative with Tailwind's arms...]]
* This is the first US series issue scripted by [[Simon Furman]], who took over the run from [[Bob Budiansky]].
* Likewise, the [[Dan Reed]] cover of this issue marks the first time a UK Transformers artist would provide original material for the U.S. comic. Reed would later be followed on the book by true Brits [[Geoff Senior]] and [[Andrew Wildman]].
* The inactive bodies of [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]], Goldbug, [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]], Jazz, [[Hound (G1)|Hound]], [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]], Grimlock, and [[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]] are shown in Ratchet's workshop.
* This is the fourth and the last time Powermaster Optimus Prime is seen in his smaller robot form.
* For [[Whisper (G1)|Whisper]] and [[Tailwind (G1)|Tailwind's]] first appearance in robot mode on page 7, [[José Delbo]] swiped their poses from the [[package art]] for the [[Micromaster]] [[Air Strike Patrol]], with the exception of Tailwind's arms, which are swiped from the package art for his teammate [[Nightflight (G1)|Nightflight]] instead.
* ''[[Transformers Universe (Marvel comic)|Transformers Universe]]'' profiles for [[Battletrap]], [[Blot (G1)|Blot]], [[Cutthroat (G1)|Cutthroat]], [[Rollbar (G1)|Rollbar]], Goldbug, and [[Wide Load]] are found after the main story.
* The page count for this issue drops from 22 to 16, with the difference made up with the aforementioned Universe profiles.
{{-}}

===References===
* Starscream's devastation of the Autobot forces occurred in US issue #50.
* Megatron installing flip-change faction symbols on his minions is suitably ironic, as [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] had the [[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]] use the same trick on him in US issue [[Gone but Not Forgotten!|#25]].
* Ratchet's attempt to contact Optimus Prime will be shown from Prime's perspective next issue.

===Covers===
<gallery>
Image:MarvelUS-56.jpg|'''US issue #56''' - "Yes humans, flee from the power of my armpits."
Image:MarvelUK-240.jpg|'''UK issue #240''' - Some people see pink elephants. Others...
Image:MarvelUK-241.jpg|'''UK issue #241''' - Is it Thunderwing or a viking?
Image:MarvelUK-242.jpg|'''UK issue #242''' - SPAAAAAAAAACE!
</gallery>
* '''US cover:''' The Air Strike Patrol by [[Dan Reed]].
* '''UK issue #240 cover:''' Darkwing, Dreadwind and the Mecannibals by [[Andrew Wildman]].
* '''UK issue #241 cover:''' Thunderwing emerges from the sea by [[Geoff Senior]].
* '''UK issue #242 cover:''' Assault on the Ark by [[Jeff Anderson]].

===Advertisements===
* None yet identified.

[[Category:Marvel US issues]]
[[Category:Marvel UK issues]]

Back from the Dead

2011-09-16T05:01:00Z

94.22.70.147: /* References */

{{comicstory|seriesissue=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|''The Transformers'' (US)]] #56
|prev=The Interplanetary Wrestling Championship!
|next=The Resurrection Gambit!
|title=Back from the Dead
|seriesissue2=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel UK|''The Transformers'' (UK)]] #240–242
|prev2=A Savage Place!
|next2=Out to Lunch!
|image=MarvelUS-56.jpg
|caption=Oh boy! ''More'' Micromasters!
|publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]
|date=May 1989
|coverdate=September 1989
|story=[[Simon Furman]]
|pencils=[[José Delbo]]
|inks=[[Dave Hunt]]
|color=[[Nelson Yomtov|Nel Yomtov]]
|letters=[[Jim Massara]]
|editing=[[Don Daley]]
|continuity=[[Marvel Comics continuity]]
}}

'''Some British guy starts writing the title. This won't last...'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:Zombiesbackfromthedead.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Blaster's not dead, he's just a Headmaster!]]
In Ratchet's nightmares, the dead walk. Because he has failed to restore them to life, they have become the un-life, and thirst for his spark. As the scrambling corpses pile over him, Ratchet decides he deserves to die for his failure, and gives in to his attackers as they violently — RATCHET!!

Suddenly, he startles awake. Optimus Prime has come into the medical bay and shaken Ratchet out of involuntary systems shut-down. Prime has been desperate to replenish his ranks after [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]'s rampage through their forces, but he starts to realize how much of an effect the stress has had on Ratchet. He orders the surgeon to take some downtime, but worries his demand for troops might have already damaged Ratchet's sanity. Ratchet, in turn, shows that he has hardly been comforted by Prime's pep-talk, and laments the lack of any real advanced medical technology, like he's heard exists on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] now.

Meanwhile, on that very planet, a mysterious figure is addressing the [[Micromaster]] [[Sports Car Patrol]]. As these tiny [[Decepticon|Decepticons]] demonstrate they are ready for their covert mission and show off their faction-switching insignias, the figure contacts his other agents on [[Earth]], the [[Air Strike Patrol]], and tells them to begin their part of the mission.

The Air Strike Patrol stages an attack at [[MacDill Air Force Base]], taking the humans hostage while making empty demands for the new mid-air refueling jet being unveiled. Unknown to all involved, their only true purpose is to get the [[Autobot|Autobots]]' attention. They succeed. Despite their low numbers, Optimus Prime feels compelled to gather a strike team and take a shuttle down to Earth to defend the humans.

With the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] virtually deserted, the Sports Car Patrol teleports in using a new [[Trans-Time Dimensional Portal|trans-time dimensional portal]]. Working from a nearby circuit panel, Blackjack reprograms some crucial systems to give him remote control over the fallen Autobots. He animates them and provides a voice in order to physically and psychologically batter Ratchet into submission. With his recent nightmares coming to life around him, Ratchet almost submits to his attackers, but manages to shake loose his guilt and fight back. He breaks free and prepares to hit the emergency cut-off switch to short-circuit the "zombies", but hesitates at doing any more damage to their systems.

Fortunately for Ratchet, the choice is taken out of his hands. Blackjack's psychological torture was supposed to force Ratchet to tear apart his fallen comrades with his bare hands in order to survive, breaking him mentally. Instead, the Micromaster is forced to shut down the reanimates before they kill Ratchet, and he ceases to be of any use. Time for Plan B. Stepping out of the shadows, Blackjack and friends introduce themselves as the Autobot Sports Car Patrol. Claiming to be on their way back to Cybertron, the Micromasters offer to take Ratchet with them and let him make use of their shiny new med-tech.

Ready to jump at the chance, Ratchet quickly attempts to contact Optimus Prime and receive permission. Static on the line prevents him from getting through, however. Ratchet decides to go to Cybertron anyway, and brings the bodies of [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]], [[Bumblebee (G1)|Goldbug]], and [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] with him to be the first revitalized. He immediately realizes his mistake when the Patrol leaves Blackjack behind on the Ark, though, and his suspicions are confirmed when the Micromasters turn their guns on him as they rematerialize. Whatever worries he had, they are soon trumped by the arrival of his old nemesis... Megatron!

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] (1)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] (2)
* [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] (13)
* [[Getaway]] (14)
|c2=
* [[Detour (G1)|Detour]] (3)
* [[Hyperdrive (Micromaster)|Hyperdrive]] (4)
* [[Blackjack]] (5)
* [[Road Hugger (G1)|Road Hugger]] (6)
* [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] (7)
* [[Tailwind (G1)|Tailwind]] (8)
* [[Whisper (G1)|Whisper]] (9)
* [[Nightflight (G1)|Nightflight]] (10)
* [[Storm Cloud]] (11)
|c3=
* General [[James Campbell]] (12)
}}

==Errors==
* There are several glitches on page 4. It is apparently supposed to be Road Hugger who says "Right on!", as the next text bubble suggests, and Blackjack discussing the need for subtlety and sneakiness in that panel and the next. Also, the text bubble about what Blackjack excels in would make more sense switched with the one about changing their symbols.
* Even assuming he got suspicious at the end, Ratchet is not very bright. Someone reanimates the fallen Autobots by remote control and turns them against him, then, out of nowhere, some Transformers he's never seen before step out of the hallway and offer to take him on a magical journey. Right — when was the last time you EVER saw an Autobot wearing purple?
* There are a few problems with page 15 as well. The third panel seems to suggest Road Hugger remains on the Ark. However, two panels later, he is shown with Detour and Hyperdrive on Cybertron. Also, Ratchet asks "Why aren't ''they'' coming with us?", but only Blackjack is actually left behind.
* On the last page, Yomtov colored one of Ratchet's hands red and the other one black. Way to go, Nel.
* Blaster's corpse is consistently drawn with a damaged left arm, yet when he was killed in US issue [[Dark Star (issue)|#50]] (which was also penciled by Delbo) he only had a chest wound.

==Items of note==
[[Image:DelboAirStrikePatrolSwipe1.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Well, at least he got a little creative with Tailwind's arms...]]
* This is the first US series issue scripted by [[Simon Furman]], who took over the run from [[Bob Budiansky]].
* Likewise, the [[Dan Reed]] cover of this issue marks the first time a UK Transformers artist would provide original material for the U.S. comic. Reed would later be followed on the book by true Brits [[Geoff Senior]] and [[Andrew Wildman]].
* The inactive bodies of [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]], Goldbug, [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]], Jazz, [[Hound (G1)|Hound]], [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]], Grimlock, and [[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]] are shown in Ratchet's workshop.
* For [[Whisper (G1)|Whisper]] and [[Tailwind (G1)|Tailwind's]] first appearance in robot mode on page 7, [[José Delbo]] swiped their poses from the [[package art]] for the [[Micromaster]] [[Air Strike Patrol]], with the exception of Tailwind's arms, which are swiped from the package art for his teammate [[Nightflight (G1)|Nightflight]] instead.
* ''[[Transformers Universe (Marvel comic)|Transformers Universe]]'' profiles for [[Battletrap]], [[Blot (G1)|Blot]], [[Cutthroat (G1)|Cutthroat]], [[Rollbar (G1)|Rollbar]], Goldbug, and [[Wide Load]] are found after the main story.
* The page count for this issue drops from 22 to 16, with the difference made up with the aforementioned Universe profiles.
{{-}}

===References===
* Starscream's devastation of the Autobot forces occurred in US issue #50.
* Megatron installing flip-change faction symbols on his minions is suitably ironic, as [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] had the [[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]] use the same trick on him in US issue [[Gone but Not Forgotten!|#25]].
* Ratchet's attempt to contact Optimus Prime will be shown from Prime's perspective next issue.

===Covers===
<gallery>
Image:MarvelUS-56.jpg|'''US issue #56''' - "Yes humans, flee from the power of my armpits."
Image:MarvelUK-240.jpg|'''UK issue #240''' - Some people see pink elephants. Others...
Image:MarvelUK-241.jpg|'''UK issue #241''' - Is it Thunderwing or a viking?
Image:MarvelUK-242.jpg|'''UK issue #242''' - SPAAAAAAAAACE!
</gallery>
* '''US cover:''' The Air Strike Patrol by [[Dan Reed]].
* '''UK issue #240 cover:''' Darkwing, Dreadwind and the Mecannibals by [[Andrew Wildman]].
* '''UK issue #241 cover:''' Thunderwing emerges from the sea by [[Geoff Senior]].
* '''UK issue #242 cover:''' Assault on the Ark by [[Jeff Anderson]].

===Advertisements===
* None yet identified.

[[Category:Marvel US issues]]
[[Category:Marvel UK issues]]

King Con!

2011-09-16T05:00:29Z

94.22.70.147: /* Items of note */

{{comicstory|seriesissue=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|''The Transformers'' (US)]] #54
|prev=Recipe for Disaster!
|next=The Interplanetary Wrestling Championship!
|title="King Con!"
|seriesissue2=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel UK|''The Transformers'' (UK)]] #232–235
|prev2=The Big Shutdown!
|next2=A Small War!
|image=MarvelUS-54.jpg
|caption=A big ape is rolling in his grave...
|publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]
|date=March 1989
|coverdate=July 1989
|writer=[[Bob Budiansky]]
|pencil breakdowns=[[José Delbo]]
|ink finishes=[[Danny Bulanadi]]
|colorist=[[Nelson Yomtov|Nel Yomtov]]
|letterer=[[Jim Massara]]
|editor=[[Don Daley]]
|continuity=[[Marvel Comics continuity]]
}}

'''It's the latest craze — young, crass heroes with no time for the adults' rules!'''

==Synopsis==
Three men head into the [[New Jersey (Earth)|New Jersey]] swamps in the dead of night, in order to deal with alleged "creature sightings" that have been plaguing their community. They thought it would be a bear — they were wrong. The [[Decepticon]] [[Pretender]] known as Iguanus steps out of the marsh, and blows the would-be hunters away with his hurricane air blaster. They take off on foot as fast as their puny human legs can carry them.

A few days later, Optimus Prime and Hi-Q pull into an abandoned gas station. Because of the recent losses they suffered at the hands of [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]], the [[Autobot|Autobots]] of [[Earth]] have requested reinforcements be sent from [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] by [[Trans-Time Dimensional Portal|Trans-Dimensional Warp]]. Those reinforcements arrive in the form of eight [[Micromaster]] [[Transformer|Transformers]] — the [[Off Road Patrol]] and [[Race Car Patrol]], commanded by Powertrain and Roadhandler respectively. After the Micromasters and Hi-Q toss several cliches back and forth about size, discipline, and the overconfidence of youth, Optimus proceeds with the mission briefing the Micromasters have been selected for.

Two seemingly unrelated stories have caught Prime's attention. One, the creature sightings now being substantiated by interviews with the erstwhile hunters, and second, a bizarre weather phenomena causing massive storm fronts to gather and hold steady over Manhattan, New York, and the surrounding New Jersey swamplands where the three men supposedly saw their "creature". Fearing Decepticon activity, Prime sends the Micromasters to investigate the situation.

At the same time, Cecilia Santiago — the reporter who interviewed the hunters — has entered the swamp in the hopes of finding the creature for herself.

In the new [[New Jersey base|Decepticon underground base]] in New Jersey, Scorponok is outlining their latest energy-gathering plan for the Pretenders. They have constructed a massive energy conversion device within their base, and the [[Stormmaker Station]] in the nearby swamps has been responsible for the growing weather problems. Scorponok plans to gather the full electrical power of the storm he has created. While Skullgrin guards the Stormmaker Station, Finback and Submarauder lay an extended cable underwater from the base to Manhattan, in order to absorb and conduct the electricity back to the base. Iguanus is to place their [[electrostator]] device at the proper place as a high-tech lightning rod, gathering the total electrical potential of the storm and channeling it down through the ground and the conductor cables. Bugly and Bomb-Burst are charged with retrieving Iguanus before the electrical surge strikes the electrostator and overwhelms him. As the Pretenders disperse to carry out their duties, Iguanus has a little fun at Skullgrin's expense, taunting him as a "fleshling lover" thanks to his [[Monstercon from Mars!|recent movie career]].

Back in the swamp, Cecilia has wandered into sight of the Stormmaker Station. After overhearing the Decepticons' plans, she tries to escape but makes too much noise and is captured by Iguanus. The reptilian Pretender is prepared to exterminate her right there, but Skullgrin tries to convince him to give the woman over to him. As they grapple with one another, Mudslinger arrives on the scene. As he and the rest of the Off Road Patrol jump into battle with the two Pretenders, Cecilia runs off to safety. Powertrain radios the Race Car Patrol to intercept the human as she emerges from the swamp, in case she has any information.

Roadhandler succeeds in picking her up on the side of the road, but Cecilia quickly sees through his "mannequin driver" disguise. After a brief conversation to convince her of his good intentions, Cecilia tells Roadhandler what she overheard about the threat to New York City. Roadhandler tries to get rid of her after that, but she proves tough to shake.

Iguanus has moved on from the swamp, and approaches his destination at the [[Empire State Building]]. He plans to place the electrostator at the very top of the antenna, channeling the electrical energy down through the building and out through the conduit cables which Finback and Submarauder have placed by the river. This will feed the Decepticons massive amounts of power, but destroy half the city in the process.

Back at the swamps, the Off Road Patrol manages to delay Skullgrin long enough for Mudslinger to destroy the Stormmaker, but its too late — the storm has grown too strong on its own, and can no longer be dissipated so easily.

As the Race Car Patrol and Cecilia make their way to the top of the building, King 'Con Iguanus grabs the woman with his tail and dangles her high above the streets below. Iguanus drops her into Roadhandler's waiting arms, and triggers the electrostator on top of the building. Roadhandler uses his projectile fist to knock the device loose, however, forcing Iguanus to leap out into space in a vain attempt to retrieve it. Instead, the lightning strikes down on the device, channeling the full electrical force through Iguanus alone. The electricity disperses, the Decepticons receive no energy, and Iguanus is crispy-fried in the process. As the Pretender crashes to earth, the Micromasters decide to set up residence in the Big Apple...

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] (6)
* [[Powertrain]] (8)
* [[Highjump (G1)|Highjump]] (9)
* [[Mudslinger (G1)|Mudslinger]] (10)
* [[Tote]] (11)
* [[Tailspin]] (12)
* [[Free Wheeler]] (13)
* [[Roadhandler (G1)|Roadhandler]] (14)
* [[Swindler]] (15)
|c2=
* [[Iguanus (G1)|Iguanus]] (5)
* [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] (19)
* [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] (20)
* [[Finback]] (21)
* [[Submarauder (G1)|Submarauder]] (22)
* [[Bomb-Burst (G1)|Bomb-Burst]] (23)
* [[Bugly]] (24)
* [[Skullgrin]] (25)
|c3=
* [[Gus (hunter)|Gus]] (1)
* [[Morrie]] (2)
* [[Juan (hunter)|Juan]] (3)
* [[Cecilia Santiago]] (16)
* [[Harvey]] (17)
* [[Sid]] (18)
|h4=Others|c4=
'''Dogs'''
* [[Lady]] (4)

'''[[Nebulan]]s'''
* [[Hi-Q]] (7)
}}

==Items of note==
* This issue is the first appearance of the Race Car Patrol, Off Road Patrol, and of the Micromaster concept in general.
* The Decepticon base underneath the New Jersey garbage dump makes its first appearance here. A new base was necessary after Starscream destroyed both [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]]'s island ship and Scorponok's starcruiser in US issue [[Dark Star (issue)|#50]]. Also, this was foreshadowed by Scorponok's scouting mission for Skullgrin in issue [[Monstercon from Mars!|#45]].
* This story is the second appearance of an overt [[King Kong (movie)|''King Kong'']] homage of [[King Kong]] climbing the empire state building in the official Generation 1 fiction, the first being the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|cartoon]] episode "[[City of Steel]]".
* Optimus Prime transforms into robot mode without his Powermaster engine installed. While not necessarily an error in this continuity, it goes against the [[toy]] [[gimmick]]. Prime's fellow Powermaster, [[Slapdash (G1)|Slapdash]] explicitly cannot transform without his engine according to numerous sources, such as his toy [[bio]], his ''[[Transformers Universe (Marvel comic)|Universe]]'' profile, and the UK story "[[Prime Bomb!]]".
* This is the third of the four times that Powermaster Optimus Prime is seen in his smaller robot form.

===References===
* Optimus Prime mentions the Autobots' recent staggering losses, from US #50, and their failed attempt to repair those warriors from issues [[Guess Who the Mecannibals Are Having for Dinner?|#52]]–[[Recipe for Disaster!|#53]].
* Iguanus and Skullgrin argue over how Skullgrin's time as a movie star in issue #45 may have made him too friendly towards humans.

===Covers===
<gallery>
Image:MarvelUS-54.jpg|'''US issue #54''' - They're great! Buy them! Now!
Image:MarvelUK-232.jpg|'''UK issue #232''' - Luckily the issue came with a free magnifying glass! (It was rubbish)
Image:MarvelUK-233.jpg|'''UK issue #233''' - ''The'' best free gift ever!
Image:MarvelUK-234.jpg|'''UK issue #234''' - Not so gentle, really.
Image:MarvelUK-235.jpg|'''UK issue #235''' - If only the actual [[Deathbringer (issue)|Deathbringer story]] was this great...
</gallery>
* '''US issue #54 cover:''' Iguanus, Micromasters and Cecilia by [[José Delbo]].
* '''UK issue #232 cover:''' Thunderwing and Micromasters by [[Lee Sullivan]].
* '''UK issue #233 cover:''' Bomb-Burst, Iguanus and a friendly chap by [[Jeff Anderson]].
* '''UK issue #234 cover:''' Arcee vs Horri-Bull by [[Geoff Senior]].
* '''UK issue #235 cover:''' Deathbringer and a defeated Prime by Geoff Senior.

===Advertisements===
* None yet identified.

[[Category:Marvel US issues]]
[[Category:Marvel UK issues]]

The Cosmic Carnival

2011-09-16T04:59:07Z

94.22.70.147: /* Items of note */

{{comicstory|seriesissue=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|''The Transformers'' (US)]] #44
|prev=The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)
|next=Monstercon from Mars!
|title="The Cosmic Carnival"
|seriesissue2=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|''The Transformers'' (UK)]] #178–179
|prev2=People Power!
|next2=The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)
|image=MarvelUS-44.jpg
|caption=Explain to me again how we got into this situation?
|publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]
|date=May 1988
|coverdate=September 1988
|writer=[[Bob Budiansky]]
|guest penciler=[[Frank Springer]]
|guest inker=[[Danny Bulanadi]]
|colorist=[[Nelson Yomtov|Nel Yomtov]]
|letterer=[[Bill Oakley]]
|editor=[[Don Daley]]
|continuity=[[Marvel Comics continuity]]
}}

'''Things get weirder...'''

==Synopsis==
On their way back to [[Earth]] and the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'' aboard ''[[Steelhaven (G1)|Steelhaven]]'', Optimus Prime and his comrades are confronted by a laser-beamed advertisement for "The [[Cosmic Carnival]]". Prime is ready to forgo visiting the show, until it projects an image of the [[Autobot]] Sky Lynx among the show's attractions. Curious and suspicious, Optimus changes course to investigate.

Optimus Prime and Goldbug enter the carnival and begin searching the traveling show / starship, when they come across a quartet of Earth children on display in the sideshow: the [[Spacehikers]]! When Goldbug tries to retrieve the captive humans, the energy field around their cage knock him back with considerable force. After Prime demands to see the proprietor, the kids' handler, [[Berko]], takes them to see [[Big Top]]. Big Top refuses to release the children, as they have signed a binary coded contract along with Sky Lynx, making them virtually his indentured slaves until they pay off their debt.

To show he's not a total slug, Big Top gives them two free passes to the main event. In the arena, the Autobots observe Sky Lynx's act, and meet up with him backstage after the show. Sky Lynx relates his story, about how he and the kids stopped off at the cosmic carnival after escaping from the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]] a few months back. When they couldn't pay for their admission, however, Sky Lynx signed on as a "temporary" performer to pay off his debt. He and the kids have been stuck there ever since.

Unable to think of a way around the contract or the bomb planted in the kids' cell, Optimus and Goldbug helplessly head over to say good-bye to the children. They are confronted by Berko again, who explains his story: an alien abductee brought aboard the carnival, he eventually became a trustee and worked his way out of the sideshow. So long as the kids inhabit the cell, he stays free. A loner all his life, Berko is shocked when Optimus offers to free him and take him back to Earth as well.

Berko suddenly has a remarkable change of heart, and begins arranging to free the kids. He sends Optimus to collect Sky Lynx from the arena, where his next act is beginning. Prime tries to batter a way to the exit for him and Sky Lynx, but Big Top throws the other performers in their path. After dealing with a [[gilashark]], crazed jugglers, and Rorza, the Rocket-cycle Racer from Rigel III, they make their exit.

Goldbug and Berko have freed the kids, but Big Top gets in their way and knocks Goldbug around. "Buggo" manages to right himself, though, and rams Big Top into the open cage. Leaving Big Top to a suitably ironic fate as a sideshow freak, the [[Human|humans]] and Autobots take off and leave the carnival to the rubes.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Bumblebee (G1)|Goldbug]] (1)
* [[Getaway]] (2)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] (3)
* [[Joyride (G1)|Joyride]] (4)
* [[Slapdash (G1)|Slapdash]] (5)
* [[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]] (10)
|c3=
* [[Berko]] (11)
* [[Sammy Wainwright]] (12)
* [[Robin Lindley (G1)|Robin Lindley]] (13)
* [[Jed Lindley]] (15)
* [[Allan Silver]] (16)
|h4=[[Nebulon]]s|c4=
* [[Hi-Q]] (6)
* [[Lube]] (7)
* [[Hotwire]] (8)
* [[Rev]] (9)
|h5=Others|c5=
* [[Daisy]] (14)
* [[Big Top]] (17)
* [[Rorza, the Rocket-cycle Racer from Rigel III]] (18)
}}

==Errors==
* When the Nebulan Powermasters are shown standing in front of their armors, each is standing in front of the wrong one. [[Rev]] is even standing by the evil Nebulan [[Hi-Test]]'s armor.
* Issue [[People Power!|#42]] had given Powermaster Optimus Prime's small robot some design changes to make it look like the toy (i.e. hip wheels, smokestacks inside his shoulders instead of attached to the outside, and no gas cans on legs), but in this issue Optimus Prime is drawn like his pre-Powermaster form.
* Prime didn't take his [[trailer]] with him to the Cosmic Carnival and drove around without it, but it is drawn on page 20 when he transforms.

==Items of note==
* Optimus Prime says "There is ''more than meets the eye'' here." In-continuity catch phrases are funny.
* Consistent with his [[Spacehikers!|other appearance]], Sky Lynx is seen to be a sort of [[Triple Changer]], changing from lynx to dino-bird to space shuttle without separating into two components at all. In this issue, his bird mode is bipedal, the undercarriage vanishing altogether. This was not the case previously.
* Barring art errors, this issue is one of the few of the series to feature no [[Decepticon]]s.
* Although Powermaster Optimus Prime is drawn like his old self, it can be said that this is the second of the four times he appears in his smaller robot form.

===References===
* Optimus Prime and his soldiers became Powermasters in [[People Power!|U.S. #42]].
* The Spacehikers left Earth with Sky Lynx back in [[Spacehikers!|U.S. #36]].

===UK printing===
* In [[Grim Grams]] for issue #178, [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] speaks for the debut appearance of [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]]'s cassettes, discusses back-up strips and threatens the use of the [[variable voltage harness]] on someone who thinks the ''The Real Ghostbusters'' comic superior to the Transformers (ironically directly across from a full-page ad for that comic).
* In Grim Grams for issue #179, Grimlock discusses clocking up over a hundred Grim Grams even as he hints that it's perhaps time for [[Dreadwind (G1)|someone else]] to take up the mantle and that [[Robin Smith|Stubbie Smith]] should also be introduced to variable voltage harness for [[Flame (Marvel)|Flame]]'s re-appearing/disappearing Autobot insignia in "[[Legion of the Lost!]]"/"[[Meltdown!]]"
* This story was printed after "[[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|The Big Broadcast of 2006]]" in the US, but moved to before it for the UK. This is because the UK version of "Broadcast" leads directly into "[[Space Pirates!]]", necessitating a switch to keep the future continuity in one piece.

===Covers (3)===
<gallery>
Image:MarvelUS-44.jpg|'''US Issue 44''' - This week on Strictly Come Dancing...
Image:MarvelUK-178.jpg|'''UK Issue 178''' - Watch out Sky Lynx, it's Lex Luthor!
Image:MarvelUK-179.jpg|'''UK Issue 179''' - Animal cruelty Prime! ''Animal cruelty!''
</gallery>
* '''U.S. issue 44 cover:''' Sky Lynx vs Gilashark by [[Frank Springer]]
* '''UK issue 178 cover:''' Sky Lynx and Berko by [[Stephen Baskerville]]
* '''UK issue 179 cover:''' Optimus in full Powermaster mode wrestling the Gilashark by [[Jerry Paris]]

===Advertisements===
* None yet identified.

{{DEFAULTSORT:Cosmic Carnival}}
[[Category:Marvel US issues]]
[[Category:Marvel UK issues]]

Back from the Dead

2011-09-16T04:52:08Z

94.22.70.147: /* References */

{{comicstory|seriesissue=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|''The Transformers'' (US)]] #56
|prev=The Interplanetary Wrestling Championship!
|next=The Resurrection Gambit!
|title=Back from the Dead
|seriesissue2=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel UK|''The Transformers'' (UK)]] #240–242
|prev2=A Savage Place!
|next2=Out to Lunch!
|image=MarvelUS-56.jpg
|caption=Oh boy! ''More'' Micromasters!
|publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]
|date=May 1989
|coverdate=September 1989
|story=[[Simon Furman]]
|pencils=[[José Delbo]]
|inks=[[Dave Hunt]]
|color=[[Nelson Yomtov|Nel Yomtov]]
|letters=[[Jim Massara]]
|editing=[[Don Daley]]
|continuity=[[Marvel Comics continuity]]
}}

'''Some British guy starts writing the title. This won't last...'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:Zombiesbackfromthedead.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Blaster's not dead, he's just a Headmaster!]]
In Ratchet's nightmares, the dead walk. Because he has failed to restore them to life, they have become the un-life, and thirst for his spark. As the scrambling corpses pile over him, Ratchet decides he deserves to die for his failure, and gives in to his attackers as they violently — RATCHET!!

Suddenly, he startles awake. Optimus Prime has come into the medical bay and shaken Ratchet out of involuntary systems shut-down. Prime has been desperate to replenish his ranks after [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]'s rampage through their forces, but he starts to realize how much of an effect the stress has had on Ratchet. He orders the surgeon to take some downtime, but worries his demand for troops might have already damaged Ratchet's sanity. Ratchet, in turn, shows that he has hardly been comforted by Prime's pep-talk, and laments the lack of any real advanced medical technology, like he's heard exists on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] now.

Meanwhile, on that very planet, a mysterious figure is addressing the [[Micromaster]] [[Sports Car Patrol]]. As these tiny [[Decepticon|Decepticons]] demonstrate they are ready for their covert mission and show off their faction-switching insignias, the figure contacts his other agents on [[Earth]], the [[Air Strike Patrol]], and tells them to begin their part of the mission.

The Air Strike Patrol stages an attack at [[MacDill Air Force Base]], taking the humans hostage while making empty demands for the new mid-air refueling jet being unveiled. Unknown to all involved, their only true purpose is to get the [[Autobot|Autobots]]' attention. They succeed. Despite their low numbers, Optimus Prime feels compelled to gather a strike team and take a shuttle down to Earth to defend the humans.

With the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] virtually deserted, the Sports Car Patrol teleports in using a new [[Trans-Time Dimensional Portal|trans-time dimensional portal]]. Working from a nearby circuit panel, Blackjack reprograms some crucial systems to give him remote control over the fallen Autobots. He animates them and provides a voice in order to physically and psychologically batter Ratchet into submission. With his recent nightmares coming to life around him, Ratchet almost submits to his attackers, but manages to shake loose his guilt and fight back. He breaks free and prepares to hit the emergency cut-off switch to short-circuit the "zombies", but hesitates at doing any more damage to their systems.

Fortunately for Ratchet, the choice is taken out of his hands. Blackjack's psychological torture was supposed to force Ratchet to tear apart his fallen comrades with his bare hands in order to survive, breaking him mentally. Instead, the Micromaster is forced to shut down the reanimates before they kill Ratchet, and he ceases to be of any use. Time for Plan B. Stepping out of the shadows, Blackjack and friends introduce themselves as the Autobot Sports Car Patrol. Claiming to be on their way back to Cybertron, the Micromasters offer to take Ratchet with them and let him make use of their shiny new med-tech.

Ready to jump at the chance, Ratchet quickly attempts to contact Optimus Prime and receive permission. Static on the line prevents him from getting through, however. Ratchet decides to go to Cybertron anyway, and brings the bodies of [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]], [[Bumblebee (G1)|Goldbug]], and [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] with him to be the first revitalized. He immediately realizes his mistake when the Patrol leaves Blackjack behind on the Ark, though, and his suspicions are confirmed when the Micromasters turn their guns on him as they rematerialize. Whatever worries he had, they are soon trumped by the arrival of his old nemesis... Megatron!

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] (1)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] (2)
* [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] (13)
* [[Getaway]] (14)
|c2=
* [[Detour (G1)|Detour]] (3)
* [[Hyperdrive (Micromaster)|Hyperdrive]] (4)
* [[Blackjack]] (5)
* [[Road Hugger (G1)|Road Hugger]] (6)
* [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] (7)
* [[Tailwind (G1)|Tailwind]] (8)
* [[Whisper (G1)|Whisper]] (9)
* [[Nightflight (G1)|Nightflight]] (10)
* [[Storm Cloud]] (11)
|c3=
* General [[James Campbell]] (12)
}}

==Errors==
* There are several glitches on page 4. It is apparently supposed to be Road Hugger who says "Right on!", as the next text bubble suggests, and Blackjack discussing the need for subtlety and sneakiness in that panel and the next. Also, the text bubble about what Blackjack excels in would make more sense switched with the one about changing their symbols.
* Even assuming he got suspicious at the end, Ratchet is not very bright. Someone reanimates the fallen Autobots by remote control and turns them against him, then, out of nowhere, some Transformers he's never seen before step out of the hallway and offer to take him on a magical journey. Right — when was the last time you EVER saw an Autobot wearing purple?
* There are a few problems with page 15 as well. The third panel seems to suggest Road Hugger remains on the Ark. However, two panels later, he is shown with Detour and Hyperdrive on Cybertron. Also, Ratchet asks "Why aren't ''they'' coming with us?", but only Blackjack is actually left behind.
* On the last page, Yomtov colored one of Ratchet's hands red and the other one black. Way to go, Nel.
* Blaster's corpse is consistently drawn with a damaged left arm, yet when he was killed in US issue [[Dark Star (issue)|#50]] (which was also penciled by Delbo) he only had a chest wound.

==Items of note==
[[Image:DelboAirStrikePatrolSwipe1.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Well, at least he got a little creative with Tailwind's arms...]]
* This is the first US series issue scripted by [[Simon Furman]], who took over the run from [[Bob Budiansky]].
* Likewise, the [[Dan Reed]] cover of this issue marks the first time a UK Transformers artist would provide original material for the U.S. comic. Reed would later be followed on the book by true Brits [[Geoff Senior]] and [[Andrew Wildman]].
* The inactive bodies of [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]], Goldbug, [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]], Jazz, [[Hound (G1)|Hound]], [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]], Grimlock, and [[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]] are shown in Ratchet's workshop.
* For [[Whisper (G1)|Whisper]] and [[Tailwind (G1)|Tailwind's]] first appearance in robot mode on page 7, [[José Delbo]] swiped their poses from the [[package art]] for the [[Micromaster]] [[Air Strike Patrol]], with the exception of Tailwind's arms, which are swiped from the package art for his teammate [[Nightflight (G1)|Nightflight]] instead.
* ''[[Transformers Universe (Marvel comic)|Transformers Universe]]'' profiles for [[Battletrap]], [[Blot (G1)|Blot]], [[Cutthroat (G1)|Cutthroat]], [[Rollbar (G1)|Rollbar]], Goldbug, and [[Wide Load]] are found after the main story.
* The page count for this issue drops from 22 to 16, with the difference made up with the aforementioned Universe profiles.
{{-}}

===References===
* Starscream's devastation of the Autobot forces occurred in US issue #50.
* Megatron installing flip-change faction symbols on his minions is suitably ironic, as [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] had the [[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]] use the same trick on him in US issue [[Gone but Not Forgotten!|#25]].
* Ratchet's attempt to contact Optimus Prime will be shown from Prime's perspective next issue.
* Powermaster Optimus Prime makes one of his rare appearances without his bigger robot form.

===Covers===
<gallery>
Image:MarvelUS-56.jpg|'''US issue #56''' - "Yes humans, flee from the power of my armpits."
Image:MarvelUK-240.jpg|'''UK issue #240''' - Some people see pink elephants. Others...
Image:MarvelUK-241.jpg|'''UK issue #241''' - Is it Thunderwing or a viking?
Image:MarvelUK-242.jpg|'''UK issue #242''' - SPAAAAAAAAACE!
</gallery>
* '''US cover:''' The Air Strike Patrol by [[Dan Reed]].
* '''UK issue #240 cover:''' Darkwing, Dreadwind and the Mecannibals by [[Andrew Wildman]].
* '''UK issue #241 cover:''' Thunderwing emerges from the sea by [[Geoff Senior]].
* '''UK issue #242 cover:''' Assault on the Ark by [[Jeff Anderson]].

===Advertisements===
* None yet identified.

[[Category:Marvel US issues]]
[[Category:Marvel UK issues]]