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Energon Universe 2026 Special

2026-05-03T01:21:45Z

Diesel Prime: /* Notes */

{{comicstory
|seriesissue=''Energon Universe 2026 Special''
|prev=Energon Universe 2025 Special
|next=
|image=Energon Universe 2026 Special FCBD Cover.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[May 2]], 2026
|coverdate=May 2026
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
}}

'''The Energon Universe is growing and changing...'''

==Contents==
This year’s special contains four stories, each one representing the series that make up the [[Energon Universe]] up to this point:
* A sixteen-page [[M.A.S.K. Energon Universe 2026 Special story|''M.A.S.K.'' story]] serving as a prologue to the ongoing series, by [[Dan Watters]] and [[Simon Parr|Pye Parr]] (''[[M.A.S.K. (2026 comic)|M.A.S.K.]]'')
* A four-page [[Transformers Energon Universe 2026 Special story|''Transformers'' story]] featuring a mysterious new character, by [[Robert Kirkman]] and [[Jason Howard]] (''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'')
* A six-page [[Void Rivals Energon Universe 2026 Special story|''Void Rivals'' story]] about [[Proximus]] and [[Ultum]] meeting [[Akronus]], by Robert Kirkman and [[Conor Hughes]] (''[[Void Rivals]]'')
* A six-page [[G.I. Joe Energon Universe 2026 Special story|''G.I. Joe'' story]] focusing on [[Zartan]] and [[Hawk (G.I. Joe)|Hawk]], by [[Joshua Williamson]] and [[Tom Reilly]] (''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'')

See individual articles for details.

==Notes==
* As with previous years, the special was first released as part of [[Free Comic Book Day]], with a not-free version released two Wednesdays later.
* The notes at the end of the issue revealed that three new characters will be joining the transformers roster. Knockout, Lugnut,and Skyquake.

===Covers (6)===
* '''Free Comic Book Day cover:''' A wrap-around cover featuring [[Matt Trakker]] in [[Thunderhawk]] and [[Switchblade (M.A.S.K.)|Bladejet]] being piloted by Miles Mayhem, by Pye Parr.
* '''Cover A:''' Identical to the Free Comic Book Day cover, but without the FCBD logo.
* '''Cover B:''' [[Hawk (G.I. Joe)|Hawk]] looks in the mirror and [[Zartan]] looks back, by [[Howard Porter]].
* '''Cover C:''' Mysterious sword-wielding woman, by [[Jason Howard]].
* '''Cover D (1:25 Copy Incentive):''' [[Akronus]] in [[Junkion (species|Junkion]] armor, by [[Conor Hughes]].
* '''Cover E (1:50 Copy Incentive):''' [[Gloria Baker]] stands in front of her [[Shark]], by [[Cedric Poulat]].

<gallery>
File:Energon Universe 2026 Special FCBD Cover.jpg
File:Energon Universe 2026 Special Cover A.jpg
File:Energon Universe 2026 Special Cover B.jpg
File:Energon Universe 2026 Special Cover C.jpg
File:Energon Universe 2026 Special Cover D.jpg
File:Energon Universe 2026 Special Cover E.jpg
</gallery>

==External links==

[[Category:Energon Universe media]]
[[Category:Skybound issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 31

2026-04-12T21:45:48Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #31
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 30
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 32
|image=Transformers 2023 31 Cover B.jpg
|caption=Insert "I belong to nobody" here.
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[April 8]], [[2026]]
|coverdate=April 2026
|written by=[[Robert Kirkman]]
|art by=[[Ludo Lullabi]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Abigail Lee]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''Megatron returns to the thrall of Dezimir, and discovers the identity of the one pulling ''his'' strings… '''

==Synopsis==
Within the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]'', the Decepticons try to restrain [[Megatron (G1)#Energon Universe|Megatron]], in the throes of another mysterious seizure. [[Soundwave (G1)#Energon Universe|Soundwave]] is greatly concerned to hear that this is not the first time…

[[File:Megs-finds-The-Fallen.jpeg|thumb|left|Nobody summons Megatron… unless you're his idol.]]
''Megatron pleads with [[Dezimir]] to release him from the endless trials, but the [[Quintesson]] [[Quintesson Prosecutor|Prosecutor]] refuses, and insists Megatron assume his pistol mode. Megatron refuses; as Dezimir tears Megatron to pieces, the mysterious voice of Dezimir’s master inquires: "You '''forsake''' my gift?" Megatron explains that his gun mode failed to control [[Starscream (G1)#Energon Universe|Starscream]] at a crucial moment, so he will never rely on it again. Dezimir’s unseen master reiterates; Megatron is to ''serve''. He carries within him the [[Matrix of Oppression]]; a wellspring of power and rage sourced from the life force of prior Decepticon leaders, who in turn feed off of Megatron’s strength. Megatron fights his way through over three thousand more trials, until the ten thousandth; he’s had enough and finally accepts the terms.''

''Suddenly finding himself in a wasteland, Megatron approaches a building shaped like the Decepticon [[insignia]]. Within the base, he finds the master of Dezimir and the Matrix of Oppression: [[The Fallen|Megatronus]]. Megatronus offers the Decepticon leader a choice, between the only two options there are at this point: oblivion, or servitude. Reluctantly, Megatron chooses servitude.''

Within the ''Nemesis'', Megatron collapses, and mysterious crystals begin breaking through from within his body…
{{--}}
==Featured Characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks or dream form. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c2=
* [[Soundwave (G1)#Energon Universe|Soundwave]] (1)
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] (2)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (3)
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (4)
* [[Megatron (G1)#Energon Universe|Megatron]] (5)
* [[Skywarp (G1)#Energon Universe|Skywarp]] (6)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (7)
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] (8)
* [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]] (9)
* ''[[Trannis]]'' (11)
* ''[[The Fallen|Megatronus]]'' (12)
* ''[[Straxus (G1)|Straxus]]'' (13)

|h3=[[Quintesson]]s|c3=
* ''[[Dezimir]]'' (10)
* ''[[Sharkticon (species)|Sharkticons]]'' (15)
* ''[[Quintesson Bailiff|Bailiffs]]'' (16)
* ''[[Mechanokoar]]'' (17)

|h4=Others|c4=
* ''[[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]]?'' (14)
}}

==Quotes==
"It is '''you''' who is flawed. You have not fully submitted to me." 
"I was born to '''command'''. Not serve." 
:— '''Dezimir’s master''' and '''Megatron'''

"'''THEN BOW BEFORE MEGATRONUS.''' Bend your will to '''mine''' and receive the '''true''' power of the '''Matrix of Oppression.'''"

==Notes==
* Holy—

===Continuity notes===
* We first learned about Megatron’s trials with Dezimir back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 19|#19]], which is also where we were introduced to the Matrix of Oppression, though not by name. Additionally, it was unclear at the time whether Megatron was merely bathed in its power or actually received the physical object; it seems he carries it within him.
** Of note: Megatron ended that issue with 500 trials under his belt before Dezimir’s master declared he was done. This issue starts with Megatron at number 6,353, and ends at 10,000. Yikes.
***its unclear if these trials took place over the years since Megatron first was tried, or they happened during during his first "pink eye moment" during the begging of this arc.
* Megatron had a seizure at the end of [[Transformers (2023) issue 26|#26]] and into the beginning of [[Transformers (2023) issue 28|#28]] (taking place immediately after #26). At the time, Soundwave was being held prisoner by the Autobots and was not around to see it.
* Megatron was first shown to be able to control those who wielded him back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 14|#14]].
* Starscream broke free of said control and shot himself in the head in [[Transformers (2023) issue 24|#24]].
* Among the Decepticon leaders seen within the Matrix, we also see…Trailbreaker? He’s hidden somewhat behind Straxus, but the head and the forcefield gadget are a dead match. Might this have something to do with Megatron devouring the [[Autobot]]’s [[Spark]] in [[Transformers (2023) issue 28|#28]]? We’ll see!
* The [[Thirteen]] have been alluded to throughout the Energon Universe, in particular Skywarp swore by the Fallen in [[Transformers (2023) issue 3|#3]], while [[Optimus Prime (G1)#Energon Universe|Optimus Prime]] saw a bunch of statues of them within the [[Matrix of Leadership]] in issues [[Transformers (2023) issue 22|#22]] and [[Transformers (2023) issue 23|#23]].

===Transformers references===
* The big one is The Fallen, AKA Megatronus, appearing in a design based on his original appearance in [[Dreamwave Productions]]’ ''[[Transformers: War Within: The Dark Ages|War Within: The Dark Ages]]'' miniseries. Having said that, it’s more likely meant to tie in with the character’s recent ''[[Transformers: Age of the Primes|Age of the Primes]]'' [[The Fallen/toys#Age of the Primes|toy]], considering the Megatronus name and the portrayal as an ambiguous prominent Decepticon leader of ages past.
* The other non-generic Decepticon leaders shown are Straxus and Trannis, both originally from the [[Marvel Comics|Marvel]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|comic]] (US and UK respectively); Trannis in particular is using the design from the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|original cartoon]] episode "[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4]]" that was retroactively identified as him, since he was not visually depicted in his original Marvel appearance.
* The spiky, purple, crystal-like protrusions from the [[Matrix of Opression]] visually recall [[Dark Energon]], the thematically-similar evil energy source from ''[[Transformers: Prime (cartoon)|Prime]]''.
* When Megatron finally had enough of the trials, he yells "I accept your terms!" Which is what he said in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' to [[Unicron]] before he was reformatted into [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]]. Foreshadowing?
* The big honkin’ Decepticon insignia base comes from the episode "[[Enter the Nightbird]]", though there it was an actual physical building.

===Errors===
* Long Haul and Bonecrusher’s chests, as well as the latter’s legs, are colored purple instead of the correct green on the first page.
* Skywarp is missing his null-rays throughout the entire issue.

===Other Notes===
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Executive Editor Ben Abernathy.
** '''Character Spotlight:''' Megatron
** '''Decepti-Can’t!:''' The other Decepticons were unable to physically restrain Megatron.
** '''Creator Spotlight:''' Ben asks Ludo Lullabi what his alt-mode would be. Lullabi answers a cargo spaceship, bringing stories from world to world while listening to ‘Prophecy Theme’ by Toto.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Megatron, by [[David Nakayama]].
* '''Cover B:''' Megatron with his Energon mace, by [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] & Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Megatron profile shot, by [[Simon Parr|Pye Parr]].
* '''Cover D (1:25 Copy Incentive):''' The Decepticons flanking Megatron, by [[Manabu Yashiro]].
* '''Cover E (1:50 Copy Incentive):''' Megatron close-up, by Ludo Lullabi.
* '''Cover F (1:100 Copy Incentive):''' Megatron (noticing a pattern?) and [[Laserbeak (G1)#Energon Universe|Laserbeak]] in a minimalist style, by [[Patricia Martín Samaniego]].
* '''Cover G:''' Blank sketch variant.
* '''Gotham City Limit Cover A:''' Megatron on his throne, by [[Tyler Kirkham]]. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Gotham City Limit Cover B:''' Textless variant of above, by Tyler Kirkham. Limited to 500 copies.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 31 Cover A.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 31 Cover B.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 31 Cover C.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 31 Cover D.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 31 Cover E.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 31 Cover F.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 31 Cover G.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 31 Gotham City Limit Cover A.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 31 Gotham City Limit Cover B.jpg
</gallery>

===Advertisement===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 21|#21]], ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 29|#29]], ''Transformers'' #32, and ''[[M.A.S.K. (2026 comic)|M.A.S.K.]]'' [[M.A.S.K. (2026) issue 1|#1]]
* ''Corpse Knight''
* ''Invincible Universe: Capes'' #7
* ''Invincible VS''

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 6: Decepticons Attack!''''' ([[December 9]], [[2026]]) ISBN 1534332634 / ISBN 978-1534332638 
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #31–36.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V6.jpg|'''''Volume 6: Decepticons Attack!''''' – cover art by [[David Nakayama]]
</gallery>

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers Energon Universe 2025 Special story

2026-03-17T20:00:26Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Energon Universe 2025 Special]]''
|prev=G.I. Joe Energon Universe 2025 Special story
|next=Void Rivals Energon Universe 2025 Special story
|seriesissue2=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]''
|prev2=Transformers (2023) issue 19
|next2=Transformers (2023) issue 20
|image=Energon Universe 2025 Special Cover B.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[May 3]], [[2025]]
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=Daniel Warren Johnson
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''Jazz wants to play in harmony with his fellow bots, but he just can’t seem to avoid jamming to his own rhythm.'''

==Synopsis==
''Years ago, on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] is kicked out of his band with [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]], [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]], [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]], and [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] right before their big performance because he can’t stay on the beat and keeps improvising. Later that evening, using an intergalactic radio devised by [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]], he listens to a strange sound that fascinates him. He excitedly shares his discovery with [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]], who appreciates his friend’s sense of wonder, but politely asks him to turn the noise off.''

In the present, on [[Earth]], Optimus and Jazz are driving down a road when Jazz suddenly hears that same noise off in the distance. He swerves off the road in an effort to find the source, arriving at a cocktail lounge. He peers inside to see a group of jazz musicians playing to an attentive crowd. He smiles, finally finding what he was looking for all those years ago.

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in photographs. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* ''[[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]]'' (1)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (2)
* ''[[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]]'' (3)
* ''[[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]]'' (4)
* ''[[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]]'' (5)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (6)

|h3=Others|c3=
* Jazz musicians (7)
}}

==Quotes==
"Optimus… have you ever hunted for something? Something you barely know exists?" 
"I’m not sure I know what you mean, my friend." 
"Listening to this… is like finding a new question to ask. It’s a brand new journey."
:—'''Jazz''' and '''Optimus Prime'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* This story reveals that most of the main cast of ''Transformers'' were in a band either before or during the war. That just rules.
* Where exactly this story fits in with the ongoing narrative of the ''Transformers'' series is unclear, but it would appear to be some sort of flash forward. One key detail to note is that the “present day” pages show Optimus with his normal right arm, not [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s, which he's had since [[Transformers (2023) issue 4|''Transformers'' #4]] (the same issue where Jazz was first awoken, meaning it can't take place earlier).
** This story, currently, can only take place after the ending of issue 27 (when Optimus gets his right arm back), and before the ending of issue 28 (when the autobot rally to fight the Decepticons) Anytime before or after that Optimus either does not have his right arm, Jazz is not there, there is no moments where Optimus and Jazz can leave at night to go there, and the Spoilers for issue 30's ending (Which takes place the same afternoon as the ending of issue 28's ending.)

===Real-life references===
* The B cover to the ''Energon Universe 2025 Special'' (as pictured above) features many real album covers and references to real recording artists, including:
** [[Fab Four|The Beatles]]
** {{w|Blood Incantation}}’s {{w|Absolute Elsewhere}}
** Brooticus, the fictional band from Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer’s previous comic, ''Murder Falcon'' (the titular character of which also appears in a photograph).
** {{w|Carcass (band)|Carcass}}'s {{w|Heartwork}}
** {{w|Megadeth}}
** {{w|MF Doom}} and {{w|Madlib}}'s {{w|Madvillainy}}
** {{w|MXPX}}
** {{w|Power Trip (band)|Power Trip}}
** {{w|Racer X (band)|Racer X}}
** {{w|Relient K}}
** {{w|Toto (band)|Toto}}’s {{w|Africa (song)|Africa}}
** {{w|The Velvet Underground}}'s {{w|The Velvet Underground & Nico}}
** {{w|Bruce Springsteen}}'s {{w|Born in the U.S.A.}}
** {{w|Rush (Band)|Rush}}
** {{w|Big Star}}'s {{w|Number 1 Record}} and {{w|Radio City (album)|Radio City}}
** {{w|Watchtower (band)|Watchtower}}'s {{w|Control and Resistance}}
** {{w|Blink-182}}'s {{w|Take Off Your Pants and Jacket}}
** {{w|Johnny Cash}}'s {{w|At Folsom Prison}}
** {{w|Pink Floyd}}'s {{w|The Dark Side of the Moon}}
** And most importantly, [[The Transformers: The Movie - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack]]
*Jazz's keyboard has "Zoog" branding, presumably a reference to the real world {{w|Moog synthesizer}}s.
* The cocktail lounge Jazz discovers is the famous {{w|Green Mill Cocktail Lounge}} in [[Chicago]].

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' ([[November 25]], [[2025]]) ISBN 1534332588 / ISBN 978-1534332584 
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #19–24 and the ''Transformers'' story from ''[[Energon Universe 2025 Special]]''.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V4.jpg|'''''Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer
</gallery>

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 30

2026-03-17T19:19:06Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #30
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 29
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 31
|image=Transformers 2023 30 Cover B.jpg
|caption=Nice argument, Elita, but unfortunately for you I've already depicted myself as the unflappable Autobot commander and you as the seething usurper.
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[March 11]], [[2026]]
|coverdate= March 2026
|written by=[[Robert Kirkman]]
|art by=[[Dan Mora]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''Optimus and Elita clash, and the fate of all Autobotkind will be decided!'''

==Synopsis==
[[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] warns [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] that they do not have time to rehash their debate as the [[Decepticon]]s are getting away. However, he is interrupted by [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]]'s horrified reaction to seeing [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]]'s corpse. Elita still can't understand why Optimus continues to put the [[Earth]] before [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], even as it continues to take the lives of their fellow [[Autobot]]s. She believes he's abandoned their war, while Optimus views [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s presence on Earth to be the fault of the Autobots and their responsibility to protect the world from the devastation he will wreak. Elita coldly tells him that he is no longer fit to lead them and punches Prime. Prime refuses to fight her and orders the rest of the Autobots to not interfere. However, Cliffjumper jumps in anyway, forcing Optimus to retaliate in his defense. Elita then proceeds to pound on Optimus' chest, demanding he "give it to her". At that moment, [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] and [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] appear, only able to look on in horror as Elita attempts to rip Prime's chest open.

Optimus grabs Elita's hand and stops her. He tells her he understands: their people are dying and she believes him distracted, and he admits she might be right. She might be the better leader for the Autobots at this time. But such a role cannot be taken. One must be chosen. He then opens his chest, revealing the [[Matrix of Leadership]], and allowing the artifact to choose who will lead the Autobots...

And the Matrix chooses Elita, bestowing upon her a new [[Prime (rank)|Prime form]], as Optimus reverts to a smaller state.
[[File:Elita-Prime.jpeg|thumb|left|Funnily enough, this is [[Transformers One (film)|not the first time]] [[Elita-1 (One)|an Elita]] has named [[Optimus Prime (One)|a Prime]]]]

Optimus acquiesces to the choice, and defers leadership to Elita Prime. Elita orders all Autobots to return to Cybertron so that they might continue their efforts to defeat the Decepticons and save their world; anyone who decides to stay behind with Optimus will no longer be Autobots. She also warns that they do not know if they will be able to activate the [[space bridge]] on Cybertron again.

As the sun begins to set, Elita's Autobots depart, taking with them the wounded and inoperable Autobots left on the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'', hoping to restore them on their home planet. Those remaining behind now have their [[Insignia|Autobrand]]s crossed out. Optimus and Elita bid each other farewell, as those who remain behind — [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]], [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee Magnus]], [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]], [[Shredhead]], [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]], [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]], and the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]] — ask what they do now. Optimus simply says that they complete their mission. Somehow...

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime/Optimus]] (1)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (2)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (3)
* [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One/Elita Prime]] (4)
* [[Bulkhead (G1)|Bulkhead]] (5)
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] (6)
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] (7)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (8)
* [[Shredhead]] (9)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (10)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee Magnus]] (11)
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] (12)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (13)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (14)
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (17)
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (18)
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (19)
* [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (20)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (21)
* [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] (22)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (23)
* [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] (24)
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] (25)

|c3=
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (15)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (16)
}}

==Quotes==
"For '''millennia''' we fought together against the Decepticons. I am strongest... '''with you by my side.'''" 
"Elita, '''please.''' I fear that is but a distant memory. No matter how much I desire it, as well..."
:— '''Elita One''' and '''Optimus Prime'''

"Prime? Are you--" 
"No, Brawn... Not Prime. Only '''Optimus,''' now."
:— '''Brawn''' and '''Optimus'''

'''Ultra Magnus:''' "I'm sorry, Optimus. I just feel I'm needed--" 
'''Optimus:''' "Don't. I understand. I hope to join you soon, my friend." 
'''Elita Prime:''' "By [[Primus]], let that be true. [['Til all are one]]." 
'''Optimus:''' "'Til all are one."

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* This issue finally brings the conflict that has been brewing between Optimus and Elita since [[Transformers (2023) issue 12|issue #12]] to its boiling point.
* Optimus tells Elita that challenging for leadership is not the Autobot way, in stark contrast to the Decepticon way seen back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 13|issue #13]] when [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] challenged [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]].
* Upon losing the Matrix, Optimus reverts to a smaller form, though he still calls himself “Optimus”. Notably, he does not revert to the Orion Pax that we saw in a flashback in ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 17|#17]].
* Certain bots were not shown staying or leaving. (Most likely to give the writer some room to change their mind on them.) Such Characters are Blaster, Sideswipe, and notably Jazz. While there are silhouettes of seemingly 2-3 characters that also left with Elita. One most resembles Mirage because the shoulder cannon is on the right, and the other does not resemble any of them, and the possible third is to hidden to truly identify if it even is one. Jazz being Optimus's second in command and finally finding what he had been searching for on earth would make it unlikely he actually left.

===''Transformers'' references===
* When Optimus opens his chest to reveal the Matrix, the design of the "cover" to the Matrix is taken from its appearance in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.
* Elita's Prime form appears to have a jet [[alternate mode]] akin to her [[Elita One (G1)#Power of the Primes|''Power of the Primes'' toy]]. Her new lower legs resemble those of her [[Elita-1 (One)|''One'' counterpart]].
* Optimus' post-Prime form has the chest of his [[Optimus Prime (Cyberworld)|''Cyberworld'' counterpart]].

==='Errors===
* Cliffjumper's feet are colored black throughout the entire issue.
* Ultra Magnus's antennas are colored blue *sigh* again. (Seriously how does this keep happening? Like it's the most consistent error out of everything that's been fixed or messed up on this entire book.)
* In the ''very first'' panel, the two stripes above the arrow on Optimus Prime's forearm are colored red instead of yellow.
* On page 6, Jetfire's blue forehead-stripe is incorrectly colored white.
* On page 8, Cliffjumper has a red stripe on his forearms in every panel. His windows are also colored red when Elita slams him to the ground.
* On page 9, the white stripe on Optimus's abdomen is colored red.
* Similarly on page 14, the color of the white and red sections of Optimus's abdomen are ''swapped''.
* On page 15, Optimus's Autobot symbols aren't filled in white, left ''barely'' visible by their outline.
* On page 17, the blue and red stripe on Jazz's back is colored white. Cliffjumper is also missing the spare tire on his back when he kneels.
* On page 19, Mirage is missing the panel on his right shoulder.
* When the other bots are seen leaving with Elita Prime, the head shape of the bot between her legs looks like... Cyclonus? The head design doesn't match any of the current characters shown to be with the Autobots.

===Other notes===
* Due to an error with Google Books, this issue accidentally leaked almost a month in advance, leading to many of its shocking plot points being posted on social media, usually without context.
* Kirkman name-drops [[Delta Magnus]] in the letters pages as an example of "[[Magnus (rank)|Magnus]]" being a rank that can be passed on to [[Arcee (G1)#Energon Universe|different bots]].
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Executive Editor Ben Abernathy.
** '''Character Spotlight:''' Optimus (not Prime)
** ''''Til All Are None!!:''' Reflects on Optimus and his outcast Autobots.
** '''Creator Spotlight:''' Ben asks Dan Mora who his favorite Transformer was to draw. Mora enjoyed drawing Wheeljack most, though he also highlights [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] and Elita One.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Elita One, by [[David Nakayama]]
* '''Cover B:''' Optimus vs Elita, by [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover, by [[Jorge Corona]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover D:''' The Decepticons, by [[Taurin Clarke]].
* '''Cover E:''' Design for Megatron, by Dan Mora and [[Andres Juarez]].
* '''Cover F:''' Invincible crossover cover featuring Invincible and Robot fighting [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] and Rumble, by [[Joshua Cassara]] and [[Romulo Fajardo Jr.]].

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 30 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Cover F.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Redcode Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Serg Acuña Cover.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisement===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 20|#20]], ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 28|#28]], and ''Transformers'' #31.
* ''Invincible Universe: Battle Beast'' #7
* ''[[G.I. Joe (comic)|G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero]]'' Kickstarter Exclusive Hardcover Compendiums
* ''G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero: Silent Missions'' returns!

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 5: Generation One''''' ([[June 2]], [[2026]]) ISBN 153433355X / ISBN 978-1534333550
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #25–30
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V5.jpg|'''''Volume 5: Generation One''''' – cover art by [[David Nakayama]]
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 30

2026-03-17T19:17:55Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #30
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 29
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 31
|image=Transformers 2023 30 Cover B.jpg
|caption=Nice argument, Elita, but unfortunately for you I've already depicted myself as the unflappable Autobot commander and you as the seething usurper.
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[March 11]], [[2026]]
|coverdate= March 2026
|written by=[[Robert Kirkman]]
|art by=[[Dan Mora]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''Optimus and Elita clash, and the fate of all Autobotkind will be decided!'''

==Synopsis==
[[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] warns [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] that they do not have time to rehash their debate as the [[Decepticon]]s are getting away. However, he is interrupted by [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]]'s horrified reaction to seeing [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]]'s corpse. Elita still can't understand why Optimus continues to put the [[Earth]] before [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], even as it continues to take the lives of their fellow [[Autobot]]s. She believes he's abandoned their war, while Optimus views [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s presence on Earth to be the fault of the Autobots and their responsibility to protect the world from the devastation he will wreak. Elita coldly tells him that he is no longer fit to lead them and punches Prime. Prime refuses to fight her and orders the rest of the Autobots to not interfere. However, Cliffjumper jumps in anyway, forcing Optimus to retaliate in his defense. Elita then proceeds to pound on Optimus' chest, demanding he "give it to her". At that moment, [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] and [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] appear, only able to look on in horror as Elita attempts to rip Prime's chest open.

Optimus grabs Elita's hand and stops her. He tells her he understands: their people are dying and she believes him distracted, and he admits she might be right. She might be the better leader for the Autobots at this time. But such a role cannot be taken. One must be chosen. He then opens his chest, revealing the [[Matrix of Leadership]], and allowing the artifact to choose who will lead the Autobots...

And the Matrix chooses Elita, bestowing upon her a new [[Prime (rank)|Prime form]], as Optimus reverts to a smaller state.
[[File:Elita-Prime.jpeg|thumb|left|Funnily enough, this is [[Transformers One (film)|not the first time]] [[Elita-1 (One)|an Elita]] has named [[Optimus Prime (One)|a Prime]]]]

Optimus acquiesces to the choice, and defers leadership to Elita Prime. Elita orders all Autobots to return to Cybertron so that they might continue their efforts to defeat the Decepticons and save their world; anyone who decides to stay behind with Optimus will no longer be Autobots. She also warns that they do not know if they will be able to activate the [[space bridge]] on Cybertron again.

As the sun begins to set, Elita's Autobots depart, taking with them the wounded and inoperable Autobots left on the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'', hoping to restore them on their home planet. Those remaining behind now have their [[Insignia|Autobrand]]s crossed out. Optimus and Elita bid each other farewell, as those who remain behind — [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]], [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee Magnus]], [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]], [[Shredhead]], [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]], [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]], and the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]] — ask what they do now. Optimus simply says that they complete their mission. Somehow...

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime/Optimus]] (1)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (2)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (3)
* [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One/Elita Prime]] (4)
* [[Bulkhead (G1)|Bulkhead]] (5)
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] (6)
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] (7)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (8)
* [[Shredhead]] (9)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (10)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee Magnus]] (11)
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] (12)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (13)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (14)
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (17)
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (18)
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (19)
* [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (20)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (21)
* [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] (22)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (23)
* [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] (24)
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] (25)

|c3=
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (15)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (16)
}}

==Quotes==
"For '''millennia''' we fought together against the Decepticons. I am strongest... '''with you by my side.'''" 
"Elita, '''please.''' I fear that is but a distant memory. No matter how much I desire it, as well..."
:— '''Elita One''' and '''Optimus Prime'''

"Prime? Are you--" 
"No, Brawn... Not Prime. Only '''Optimus,''' now."
:— '''Brawn''' and '''Optimus'''

'''Ultra Magnus:''' "I'm sorry, Optimus. I just feel I'm needed--" 
'''Optimus:''' "Don't. I understand. I hope to join you soon, my friend." 
'''Elita Prime:''' "By [[Primus]], let that be true. [['Til all are one]]." 
'''Optimus:''' "'Til all are one."

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* This issue finally brings the conflict that has been brewing between Optimus and Elita since [[Transformers (2023) issue 12|issue #12]] to its boiling point.
* Optimus tells Elita that challenging for leadership is not the Autobot way, in stark contrast to the Decepticon way seen back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 13|issue #13]] when [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] challenged [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]].
* Upon losing the Matrix, Optimus reverts to a smaller form, though he still calls himself “Optimus”. Notably, he does not revert to the Orion Pax that we saw in a flashback in ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 17|#17]].
* Certain bots were not shown staying or leaving. (Most likely to give the writer some room to change their mind on them.) Such Characters are Blaster, Sideswipe, and notably Jazz. While there are silhouettes of seemingly 2 characters that also left with Elita. One most resembles Mirage because the shoulder cannon is on the right, and the other does not resemble any of them. Jazz being Optimus's second in command and finally finding what he had been searching for on earth would make it unlikely he actually left.

===''Transformers'' references===
* When Optimus opens his chest to reveal the Matrix, the design of the "cover" to the Matrix is taken from its appearance in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.
* Elita's Prime form appears to have a jet [[alternate mode]] akin to her [[Elita One (G1)#Power of the Primes|''Power of the Primes'' toy]]. Her new lower legs resemble those of her [[Elita-1 (One)|''One'' counterpart]].
* Optimus' post-Prime form has the chest of his [[Optimus Prime (Cyberworld)|''Cyberworld'' counterpart]].

==='Errors===
* Cliffjumper's feet are colored black throughout the entire issue.
* Ultra Magnus's antennas are colored blue *sigh* again. (Seriously how does this keep happening? Like it's the most consistent error out of everything that's been fixed or messed up on this entire book.)
* In the ''very first'' panel, the two stripes above the arrow on Optimus Prime's forearm are colored red instead of yellow.
* On page 6, Jetfire's blue forehead-stripe is incorrectly colored white.
* On page 8, Cliffjumper has a red stripe on his forearms in every panel. His windows are also colored red when Elita slams him to the ground.
* On page 9, the white stripe on Optimus's abdomen is colored red.
* Similarly on page 14, the color of the white and red sections of Optimus's abdomen are ''swapped''.
* On page 15, Optimus's Autobot symbols aren't filled in white, left ''barely'' visible by their outline.
* On page 17, the blue and red stripe on Jazz's back is colored white. Cliffjumper is also missing the spare tire on his back when he kneels.
* On page 19, Mirage is missing the panel on his right shoulder.
* When the other bots are seen leaving with Elita Prime, the head shape of the bot between her legs looks like... Cyclonus? The head design doesn't match any of the current characters shown to be with the Autobots.

===Other notes===
* Due to an error with Google Books, this issue accidentally leaked almost a month in advance, leading to many of its shocking plot points being posted on social media, usually without context.
* Kirkman name-drops [[Delta Magnus]] in the letters pages as an example of "[[Magnus (rank)|Magnus]]" being a rank that can be passed on to [[Arcee (G1)#Energon Universe|different bots]].
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Executive Editor Ben Abernathy.
** '''Character Spotlight:''' Optimus (not Prime)
** ''''Til All Are None!!:''' Reflects on Optimus and his outcast Autobots.
** '''Creator Spotlight:''' Ben asks Dan Mora who his favorite Transformer was to draw. Mora enjoyed drawing Wheeljack most, though he also highlights [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] and Elita One.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Elita One, by [[David Nakayama]]
* '''Cover B:''' Optimus vs Elita, by [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover, by [[Jorge Corona]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover D:''' The Decepticons, by [[Taurin Clarke]].
* '''Cover E:''' Design for Megatron, by Dan Mora and [[Andres Juarez]].
* '''Cover F:''' Invincible crossover cover featuring Invincible and Robot fighting [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] and Rumble, by [[Joshua Cassara]] and [[Romulo Fajardo Jr.]].

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 30 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Cover F.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Redcode Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Serg Acuña Cover.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisement===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 20|#20]], ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 28|#28]], and ''Transformers'' #31.
* ''Invincible Universe: Battle Beast'' #7
* ''[[G.I. Joe (comic)|G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero]]'' Kickstarter Exclusive Hardcover Compendiums
* ''G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero: Silent Missions'' returns!

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 5: Generation One''''' ([[June 2]], [[2026]]) ISBN 153433355X / ISBN 978-1534333550
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #25–30
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V5.jpg|'''''Volume 5: Generation One''''' – cover art by [[David Nakayama]]
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 28

2026-03-17T03:54:46Z

Diesel Prime: /* Errors */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #28
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 27
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 29
|image=Transformers 2023 28 Cover B.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[January 14]], [[2026]]
|coverdate= January 2026
|written by=[[Robert Kirkman]]
|art by=[[Dan Mora]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''Arcee ascends to the role of Magnus, just in time for Megatron to employ a deadly new tactic against the Autobots.'''

==Synopsis==
Inside the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]'', the [[Decepticon]]s attempt - to no avail - to restrain [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], who flails about in a possessed madness, screaming for [[Dezimir]], though the other Decepticons have no idea what he is talking about. Luckily for them, he comes out of his trance just as the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] return from [[Hoover Dam]] with their collected [[Energon]] cubes. Megatron is pleased to see Skywarp return to the fold, and Skywarp informs his leader that [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] is being held captive by the [[Autobot]]s. Megatron decides it's time to mount an attack on the Autobots and rescue their brother.

Aboard the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'', [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] watches over [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] and an unconscious [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]], connected to Ultra Magnus and undergoing a "vision quest" as part of her ascension to the role of [[Magnus (rank)|Magnus]]. Ultra Magnus believes that Arcee will be better Magnus than he, but Optimus admits to feeling unsure about this, as Magnus is typically a title carried for life, but alas, Ultra Magnus remains firm on his decision. Elsewhere, [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] visits Soundwave in his cell. Soundwave is disgusted by the former [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]'s decision to join the Autobots, but Thundercracker merely tells him that one day he will see the cruelty of the Decepticons for what it is before walking away.

At [[Shadow Watch]] Underground Base, [[General Flagg]] escorts [[Miles Mayhem]] out of the facility, flanked by a squad of soldiers. Before he can be taken away, however, Mayhem activates a [[Mask|hi-tech battle helmet]], which fires a corrosive acid that burns several of the guards alive. He then releases [[Switchblade (M.A.S.K.)|a high tech helicopter]] from within the facility. Telling Flagg to consider this his resignation, he frees himself from his handcuffs with the acid and boards the helicopter. After it lifts off, the vehicle begins to change, converting into a hi-speed jet and blasting off into the horizon. As Flagg realizes he backed the wrong horse, he tells his men to find [[Matt Trakker]].

Back in [[Farmingham]], [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] and [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] return to the [[Witwicky (surname)|Witwicky]] home. Carly thanks Spike for letting her stay there, and Spike tells her he’s glad to be home, though his mood immediately shifts when he spots [[Sparkplug Witwicky|his dad]]'s old recliner. Carly tries to cheer him up by reminding him that he’s going to be starting at [[University of California, Berkeley]] soon, but he tells her he isn't going; their experience with the [[Transformer]]s has gotten him to consider a new path...

Back on the ''Ark'', Arcee has finished her transformation into Arcee Magnus, complete with a new, stronger form, though she finds the new body somewhat strange. Ultra Magnus says he will hold off on relinquishing the Magnus title completely until she is fully ready; however, Optimus asks that Ultra Magnus remain as Magnus alongside Arcee, citing historical precedence of the Autobots having more than one Magnus in times of war, and believing that Ultra Magnus' experience makes him too great an asset to lose. Ultra Magnus is reluctant, but agrees to at least consider it. Arcee presents herself to the rest of the Autobots, all of whom are wowed by her upgrade. Optimus informs the Autobots of their first mission: they are going to canvass the area in search of Decepticon activity. He then offers Arcee Magnus the chance to rally the troops. She orders the Autobots to [[transformation|transform]], but before they can [[roll out]], Optimus notices that [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] is missing.

Trailbreaker is deep in the forest, admiring the beauty of [[Earth]]. Unfortunately, his moment of serenity ends with an attack from Megatron, who sneaks up and crushes his head in one hand. The Decepticon leader then tears the Autobot's body in half and rips out his [[spark]] to consume it. This, he tells the Decepticons (watching with a mix of glee and horror), is how they will deal with the Autobots: permanent death!

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee/Arcee Magnus]] (17)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (18)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (19)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (21)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (27)
* [[Bulkhead (G1)|Bulkhead]] (28)
* [[Shredhead]] (29)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (30)
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] (31)
* [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] (32)
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] (33)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (34)
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (35)
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (36)
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (37)
* [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (38)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (39)
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] (40)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (41)

|c2=
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (1)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (2)
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (3)
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (4)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (5)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (6)
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (7)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (8)
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] (9)
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] (10)
* [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]] (11)
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] (12)
* [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]] (13)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (14)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (15)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (16)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (20)

|c3=
* [[General Flagg]] (22)
* [[Miles Mayhem]] (23)
* [[Shadow Watch]] soldiers (24)
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (25)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (26)
}}

==Quotes==
"As Magnus, she will be our first line of defense. Arcee will lead the charge, sustain the most damage, protect our troops, and always ensure they are battle ready and well trained. It is a burden she will carry well." 
"I hope you are making the right decision, old friend." 
"I've rarely been this sure about anything. Arcee will be a far better Magnus than I ever was."
:—'''Ultra Magnus''' and '''Optimus Prime'''

"There will be a time, Soundwave, when you are told to do something you think is '''cruel''', or '''unnecessary'''. Or something bad will happen to someone you care about, and you will see how callous and hateful the Decepticons are. Maybe then you'll understand my actions. Or maybe you won't... but then you'll know who you truly are."
:—'''Thundercracker''' to Soundwave

"I'd trade sad memories for intact walls... most days." 
"No sad memories. Not when '''you’re''' here."
:—'''Carly''' and '''Spike'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Megatron references [[Dezimir]], the [[Quintesson Prosecutor]] who tortured him and gave him the ability to control the will of others back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 19|issue #19]]. Clearly those events have had more damaging long-term effects than we first realized.
* When Thundercracker tells Soundwave that he will see how callous and hateful the Decepticons are, Soundwave thinks about Ravage, who was damaged for most of the series because Starscream refused to help Soundwave heal him.
* This is the first time we've seen Spike's house since [[Transformers (2023) issue 2|issue #2]]. In a stunning attention to detail, the layout of the living room in the second panel of page 11 is identical to the sole shot of it from that issue.
* Carly is staying with Spike since her own home was destroyed by the fight between Laserbeak and [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] in [[Transformers (2023) issue 3|issue #3]].
* Spike's acceptance into Berkeley was mentioned back at [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|the very start of the series]].
* For the entirety of the Energon Universe, Transformers have been shown to be exceptionally durable, surviving all manner of physical damage to their bodies, with character "deaths" more being a matter of the narrative treating them as such (as with [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]]). The end of this issue confirms that the only way for a Transformer to permanently die is to destroy their spark (whether the drinking part is necessary remains to be seen).
* While it is played as a complete shock, this is the second time a Cybertronian is killed and their energon consumed. With Ramjet being drained by Elita-1's troops in issue 15.

===Transformers references===
* In a neat visual reference, the left forearm of ''[[Transformers One (film)|Transformers One]]'' [[Megatron (One)|Megatron]] can be seen during Arcee's vision.
* Arcee delivers an Autobot [[introdump|roll call]] akin to the one from the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]". However, due to [[Hasbro]]'s... let’s say "[[Transformation#Notes|particularities]]", she doesn’t say "transform and roll out", opting instead for the new catchphrase "[[transformation cog (biology)|transformation cog]]s-- activate!" (Prime starts to deliver the "let’s roll" before he is interrupted by noticing Trailbreaker's absence.)
* Megatron's grisly bisection of Trailbreaker echoes [[Megatron (Movie)|Megatron]] from the live-action films, who famously ripped [[Jazz (Movie)|Jazz]] in half. Him eating Trailbreaker's spark afterwards may be a nod to the original script for the movie, where ''Movie'' Megatron was shown to similarly consume Jazz's spark – though that scene was cut from the movie itself, it survived in [[Transformers (novel)|the film novelization]] and [[Movie Adaptation issue 4|the comic adaptation]].
** It also echoes <strike>Trailbreaker's</strike> Trailcutter's [[Births, Deaths, and Interventions|gruesome demise]] at the hands of [[Kaon (G1)|Kaon]] in the [[2005 IDW continuity|first]] [[IDW Publishing|IDW]] comic line.

===''M.A.S.K.'' references===
* This issue debuts Miles Mayhem's Viper mask and Switchblade vehicle from the original ''[[M.A.S.K. (franchise)|M.A.S.K.]]'' toyline. Viper has been newly redesigned, yet still features its classic corrosive acid power. Switchblade, meanwhile, hews fairly close to its classic design (with some minor flourishes), but has received a new name – "Bladejet". This is likely due to [[trademark]] reasons, as the recent ''M.A.S.K.'' reproduction line from [[The Loyal Subjects]] called the vehicle simply "High Tech Helicopter".

===Errors===
* On page 14, Sideswipe is miscolored as Jazz.
* On page 16, one of the Autobots is colored in Kups colors. On the bottom left next to Arcee's right hand.
* Mike Spicer is still coloring Ultra Magnus’s antennas as blue, yet on the B cover he colors them correctly as white.

===Other notes===
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Executive Editor Ben Abernathy.
** '''Character Spotlight:''' Arcee
** '''A Massive Headache:''' Ben teases the return of Shockwave from last issue.
** '''Creator Spotlight:''' Ben asks... himself... what kind of alt-mode he would have. Ben likes the idea of cruising along the beach as a dune buggy like Beachcomber.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Bulkhead and Mirage, by [[David Nakayama]]
* '''Cover B:''' Ultra Magnus and Arcee as she prepares to become Magnus, by [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover, by [[Jorge Corona]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover D:''' Megatron, by [[Ejikure]].
* '''Cover E:''' Design for Thundercracker, complete with [[Insignia|Autobrand]]s, by Dan Mora and [[Andres Juarez]].

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Unknown Comics Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 John Giang Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 The 616 Comics Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 TopShelfComic Cover.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisement===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 18|#18]], ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 26|#26]], and ''Transformers'' #29.
* ''Universal Monsters: Phantom of the Opera''
* ''Super Creepshow''
* ''Ghost Pepper'' Volume 1 TPB
* ''Invincible Universe: Battle Beast'' Volume 1 TPB

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 5: Generation One''''' ([[June 2]], [[2026]]) ISBN 153433355X / ISBN 978-1534333550
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #25–30
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V5.jpg|'''''Volume 5: Generation One''''' – cover art by [[David Nakayama]]
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 30

2026-03-17T03:52:36Z

Diesel Prime: /* Notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #30
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 29
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 31
|image=Transformers 2023 30 Cover B.jpg
|caption=Nice argument, Elita, but unfortunately for you I've already depicted myself as the unflappable Autobot commander and you as the seething usurper.
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[March 11]], [[2026]]
|coverdate= March 2026
|written by=[[Robert Kirkman]]
|art by=[[Dan Mora]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''Optimus and Elita clash, and the fate of all Autobotkind will be decided!'''

==Synopsis==
[[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] warns [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] that they do not have time to rehash their debate as the [[Decepticon]]s are getting away. However, he is interrupted by [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]]'s horrified reaction to seeing [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]]'s corpse. Elita still can't understand why Optimus continues to put the [[Earth]] before [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], even as it continues to take the lives of their fellow [[Autobot]]s. She believes he's abandoned their war, while Optimus views [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s presence on Earth to be the fault of the Autobots and their responsibility to protect the world from the devastation he will wreak. Elita coldly tells him that he is no longer fit to lead them and punches Prime. Prime refuses to fight her and orders the rest of the Autobots to not interfere. However, Cliffjumper jumps in anyway, forcing Optimus to retaliate in his defense. Elita then proceeds to pound on Optimus' chest, demanding he "give it to her". At that moment, [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] and [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] appear, only able to look on in horror as Elita attempts to rip Prime's chest open.

Optimus grabs Elita's hand and stops her. He tells her he understands: their people are dying and she believes him distracted, and he admits she might be right. She might be the better leader for the Autobots at this time. But such a role cannot be taken. One must be chosen. He then opens his chest, revealing the [[Matrix of Leadership]], and allowing the artifact to choose who will lead the Autobots...

And the Matrix chooses Elita, bestowing upon her a new [[Prime (rank)|Prime form]], as Optimus reverts to a smaller state.
[[File:Elita-Prime.jpeg|thumb|left|Funnily enough, this is [[Transformers One (film)|not the first time]] [[Elita-1 (One)|an Elita]] has named [[Optimus Prime (One)|a Prime]]]]

Optimus acquiesces to the choice, and defers leadership to Elita Prime. Elita orders all Autobots to return to Cybertron so that they might continue their efforts to defeat the Decepticons and save their world; anyone who decides to stay behind with Optimus will no longer be Autobots. She also warns that they do not know if they will be able to activate the [[space bridge]] on Cybertron again.

As the sun begins to set, Elita's Autobots depart, taking with them the wounded and inoperable Autobots left on the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'', hoping to restore them on their home planet. Those remaining behind now have their [[Insignia|Autobrand]]s crossed out. Optimus and Elita bid each other farewell, as those who remain behind — [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]], [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee Magnus]], [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]], [[Shredhead]], [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]], [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]], and the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]] — ask what they do now. Optimus simply says that they complete their mission. Somehow...

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime/Optimus]] (1)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (2)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (3)
* [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One/Elita Prime]] (4)
* [[Bulkhead (G1)|Bulkhead]] (5)
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] (6)
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] (7)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (8)
* [[Shredhead]] (9)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (10)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee Magnus]] (11)
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] (12)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (13)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (14)
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (17)
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (18)
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (19)
* [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (20)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (21)
* [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] (22)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (23)
* [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] (24)
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] (25)

|c3=
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (15)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (16)
}}

==Quotes==
"For '''millennia''' we fought together against the Decepticons. I am strongest... '''with you by my side.'''" 
"Elita, '''please.''' I fear that is but a distant memory. No matter how much I desire it, as well..."
:— '''Elita One''' and '''Optimus Prime'''

"Prime? Are you--" 
"No, Brawn... Not Prime. Only '''Optimus,''' now."
:— '''Brawn''' and '''Optimus'''

'''Ultra Magnus:''' "I'm sorry, Optimus. I just feel I'm needed--" 
'''Optimus:''' "Don't. I understand. I hope to join you soon, my friend." 
'''Elita Prime:''' "By [[Primus]], let that be true. [['Til all are one]]." 
'''Optimus:''' "'Til all are one."

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* This issue finally brings the conflict that has been brewing between Optimus and Elita since [[Transformers (2023) issue 12|issue #12]] to its boiling point.
* Optimus tells Elita that challenging for leadership is not the Autobot way, in stark contrast to the Decepticon way seen back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 13|issue #13]] when [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] challenged [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]].
* Upon losing the Matrix, Optimus reverts to a smaller form, though he still calls himself “Optimus”. Notably, he does not revert to the Orion Pax that we saw in a flashback in ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 17|#17]].

===''Transformers'' references===
* When Optimus opens his chest to reveal the Matrix, the design of the "cover" to the Matrix is taken from its appearance in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.
* Elita's Prime form appears to have a jet [[alternate mode]] akin to her [[Elita One (G1)#Power of the Primes|''Power of the Primes'' toy]]. Her new lower legs resemble those of her [[Elita-1 (One)|''One'' counterpart]].
* Optimus' post-Prime form has the chest of his [[Optimus Prime (Cyberworld)|''Cyberworld'' counterpart]].

==='Errors===
* Ultra Magnus's antennas are colored blue *sigh* again. (Seriously how does this keep happening? Like it's the most consistent error out of everything that's been fixed or messed up on this entire book.)
* When the other bots are seen leaving with Elita Prime, the head shape of the bot between her legs looks like... Cyclonus? The head design doesn't match any of the current characters shown to be with the Autobots.

===Other notes===
* Due to an error with Google Books, this issue accidentally leaked almost a month in advance, leading to many of its shocking plot points being posted on social media, usually without context.
* Kirkman name-drops [[Delta Magnus]] in the letters pages as an example of "[[Magnus (rank)|Magnus]]" being a rank that can be passed on to [[Arcee (G1)#Energon Universe|different bots]].
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Executive Editor Ben Abernathy.
** '''Character Spotlight:''' Optimus (not Prime)
** ''''Til All Are None!!:''' Reflects on Optimus and his outcast Autobots.
** '''Creator Spotlight:''' Ben asks Dan Mora who his favorite Transformer was to draw. Mora enjoyed drawing Wheeljack most, though he also highlights [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] and Elita One.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Elita One, by [[David Nakayama]]
* '''Cover B:''' Optimus vs Elita, by [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover, by [[Jorge Corona]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover D:''' The Decepticons, by [[Taurin Clarke]].
* '''Cover E:''' Design for Megatron, by Dan Mora and [[Andres Juarez]].
* '''Cover F:''' Invincible crossover cover featuring Invincible and Robot fighting [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] and Rumble, by [[Joshua Cassara]] and [[Romulo Fajardo Jr.]].

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 30 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Cover F.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Redcode Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 30 Serg Acuña Cover.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisement===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 20|#20]], ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 28|#28]], and ''Transformers'' #31.
* ''Invincible Universe: Battle Beast'' #7
* ''[[G.I. Joe (comic)|G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero]]'' Kickstarter Exclusive Hardcover Compendiums
* ''G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero: Silent Missions'' returns!

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 5: Generation One''''' ([[June 2]], [[2026]]) ISBN 153433355X / ISBN 978-1534333550
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #25–30
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V5.jpg|'''''Volume 5: Generation One''''' – cover art by [[David Nakayama]]
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 28

2026-02-23T17:12:24Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #28
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 27
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 29
|image=Transformers 2023 28 Cover B.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[January 14]], [[2026]]
|coverdate= January 2026
|written by=[[Robert Kirkman]]
|art by=[[Dan Mora]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''Arcee ascends to the role of Magnus, just in time for Megatron to employ a deadly new tactic against the Autobots.'''

==Synopsis==
Inside the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]'', the [[Decepticon]]s attempt - to no avail - to restrain [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], who flails about in a possessed madness, screaming for [[Dezimir]], though the other Decepticons have no idea what he is talking about. Luckily for them, he comes out of his trance just as the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] return from [[Hoover Dam]] with their collected [[Energon]] cubes. Megatron is pleased to see Skywarp return to the fold, and Skywarp informs his leader that [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] is being held captive by the [[Autobot]]s. Megatron decides it's time to mount an attack on the Autobots and rescue their brother.

Aboard the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'', [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] watches over [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] and an unconscious [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]], connected to Ultra Magnus and undergoing a "vision quest" as part of her ascension to the role of [[Magnus (rank)|Magnus]]. Ultra Magnus believes that Arcee will be better Magnus than he, but Optimus admits to feeling unsure about this, as Magnus is typically a title carried for life, but alas, Ultra Magnus remains firm on his decision. Elsewhere, [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] visits Soundwave in his cell. Soundwave is disgusted by the former [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]'s decision to join the Autobots, but Thundercracker merely tells him that one day he will see the cruelty of the Decepticons for what it is before walking away.

At [[Shadow Watch]] Underground Base, [[General Flagg]] escorts [[Miles Mayhem]] out of the facility, flanked by a squad of soldiers. Before he can be taken away, however, Mayhem activates a [[Mask|hi-tech battle helmet]], which fires a corrosive acid that burns several of the guards alive. He then releases [[Switchblade (M.A.S.K.)|a high tech helicopter]] from within the facility. Telling Flagg to consider this his resignation, he frees himself from his handcuffs with the acid and boards the helicopter. After it lifts off, the vehicle begins to change, converting into a hi-speed jet and blasting off into the horizon. As Flagg realizes he backed the wrong horse, he tells his men to find [[Matt Trakker]].

Back in [[Farmingham]], [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] and [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] return to the [[Witwicky (surname)|Witwicky]] home. Carly thanks Spike for letting her stay there, and Spike tells her he’s glad to be home, though his mood immediately shifts when he spots [[Sparkplug Witwicky|his dad]]'s old recliner. Carly tries to cheer him up by reminding him that he’s going to be starting at [[University of California, Berkeley]] soon, but he tells her he isn't going; their experience with the [[Transformer]]s has gotten him to consider a new path...

Back on the ''Ark'', Arcee has finished her transformation into Arcee Magnus, complete with a new, stronger form, though she finds the new body somewhat strange. Ultra Magnus says he will hold off on relinquishing the Magnus title completely until she is fully ready; however, Optimus asks that Ultra Magnus remain as Magnus alongside Arcee, citing historical precedence of the Autobots having more than one Magnus in times of war, and believing that Ultra Magnus' experience makes him too great an asset to lose. Ultra Magnus is reluctant, but agrees to at least consider it. Arcee presents herself to the rest of the Autobots, all of whom are wowed by her upgrade. Optimus informs the Autobots of their first mission: they are going to canvass the area in search of Decepticon activity. He then offers Arcee Magnus the chance to rally the troops. She orders the Autobots to [[transformation|transform]], but before they can [[roll out]], Optimus notices that [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] is missing.

Trailbreaker is deep in the forest, admiring the beauty of [[Earth]]. Unfortunately, his moment of serenity ends with an attack from Megatron, who sneaks up and crushes his head in one hand. The Decepticon leader then tears the Autobot's body in half and rips out his [[spark]] to consume it. This, he tells the Decepticons (watching with a mix of glee and horror), is how they will deal with the Autobots: permanent death!

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee/Arcee Magnus]] (17)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (18)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (19)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (21)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (27)
* [[Bulkhead (G1)|Bulkhead]] (28)
* [[Shredhead]] (29)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (30)
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] (31)
* [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] (32)
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] (33)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (34)
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (35)
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (36)
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (37)
* [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (38)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (39)
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] (40)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (41)

|c2=
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (1)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (2)
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (3)
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (4)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (5)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (6)
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (7)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (8)
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] (9)
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] (10)
* [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]] (11)
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] (12)
* [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]] (13)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (14)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (15)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (16)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (20)

|c3=
* [[General Flagg]] (22)
* [[Miles Mayhem]] (23)
* [[Shadow Watch]] soldiers (24)
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (25)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (26)
}}

==Quotes==
"As Magnus, she will be our first line of defense. Arcee will lead the charge, sustain the most damage, protect our troops, and always ensure they are battle ready and well trained. It is a burden she will carry well." 
"I hope you are making the right decision, old friend." 
"I've rarely been this sure about anything. Arcee will be a far better Magnus than I ever was."
:—'''Ultra Magnus''' and '''Optimus Prime'''

"There will be a time, Soundwave, when you are told to do something you think is '''cruel''', or '''unnecessary'''. Or something bad will happen to someone you care about, and you will see how callous and hateful the Decepticons are. Maybe then you'll understand my actions. Or maybe you won't... but then you'll know who you truly are."
:—'''Thundercracker''' to Soundwave

"I'd trade sad memories for intact walls... most days." 
"No sad memories. Not when '''you’re''' here."
:—'''Carly''' and '''Spike'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Megatron references [[Dezimir]], the [[Quintesson Prosecutor]] who tortured him and gave him the ability to control the will of others back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 19|issue #19]]. Clearly those events have had more damaging long-term effects than we first realized.
* When Thundercracker tells Soundwave that he will see how callous and hateful the Decepticons are, Soundwave thinks about Ravage, who was damaged for most of the series because Starscream refused to help Soundwave heal him.
* This is the first time we've seen Spike's house since [[Transformers (2023) issue 2|issue #2]]. In a stunning attention to detail, the layout of the living room in the second panel of page 11 is identical to the sole shot of it from that issue.
* Carly is staying with Spike since her own home was destroyed by the fight between Laserbeak and [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] in [[Transformers (2023) issue 3|issue #3]].
* Spike's acceptance into Berkeley was mentioned back at [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|the very start of the series]].
* For the entirety of the Energon Universe, Transformers have been shown to be exceptionally durable, surviving all manner of physical damage to their bodies, with character "deaths" more being a matter of the narrative treating them as such (as with [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]]). The end of this issue confirms that the only way for a Transformer to permanently die is to destroy their spark (whether the drinking part is necessary remains to be seen).
* While it is played as a complete shock, this is the second time a Cybertronian is killed and their energon consumed. With Ramjet being drained by Elita-1's troops in issue 15.

===Transformers references===
* In a neat visual reference, the left forearm of ''[[Transformers One (film)|Transformers One]]'' [[Megatron (One)|Megatron]] can be seen during Arcee's vision.
* Arcee delivers an Autobot [[introdump|roll call]] akin to the one from the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]". However, due to [[Hasbro]]'s... let’s say "[[Transformation#Notes|particularities]]", she doesn’t say "transform and roll out", opting instead for the new catchphrase "[[transformation cog (biology)|transformation cog]]s-- activate!" (Prime starts to deliver the "let’s roll" before he is interrupted by noticing Trailbreaker's absence.)
* Megatron's grisly bisection of Trailbreaker echoes [[Megatron (Movie)|Megatron]] from the live-action films, who famously ripped [[Jazz (Movie)|Jazz]] in half. Him eating Trailbreaker's spark afterwards may be a nod to the original script for the movie, where ''Movie'' Megatron was shown to similarly consume Jazz's spark – though that scene was cut from the movie itself, it survived in [[Transformers (novel)|the film novelization]] and [[Movie Adaptation issue 4|the comic adaptation]].
** It also echoes <strike>Trailbreaker's</strike> Trailcutter's [[Births, Deaths, and Interventions|gruesome demise]] at the hands of [[Kaon (G1)|Kaon]] in the [[2005 IDW continuity|first]] [[IDW Publishing|IDW]] comic line.

===''M.A.S.K.'' references===
* This issue debuts Miles Mayhem's Viper mask and Switchblade vehicle from the original ''[[M.A.S.K. (franchise)|M.A.S.K.]]'' toyline. Viper has been newly redesigned, yet still features its classic corrosive acid power. Switchblade, meanwhile, hews fairly close to its classic design (with some minor flourishes), but has received a new name – "Bladejet". This is likely due to [[trademark]] reasons, as the recent ''M.A.S.K.'' reproduction line from [[The Loyal Subjects]] called the vehicle simply "High Tech Helicopter".

===Errors===
* On page 14, Sideswipe is miscolored as Jazz.
* Mike Spicer is still coloring Ultra Magnus’s antennas as blue, yet on the B cover he colors them correctly as white.

===Other notes===
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Executive Editor Ben Abernathy.
** '''Character Spotlight:''' Arcee
** '''A Massive Headache:''' Ben teases the return of Shockwave from last issue.
** '''Creator Spotlight:''' Ben asks... himself... what kind of alt-mode he would have. Ben likes the idea of cruising along the beach as a dune buggy like Beachcomber.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Bulkhead and Mirage, by [[David Nakayama]]
* '''Cover B:''' Ultra Magnus and Arcee as she prepares to become Magnus, by [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover, by [[Jorge Corona]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover D:''' Megatron, by [[Ejikure]].
* '''Cover E:''' Design for Thundercracker, complete with [[Insignia|Autobrand]]s, by Dan Mora and [[Andres Juarez]].

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Unknown Comics Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 John Giang Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 The 616 Comics Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 TopShelfComic Cover.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisement===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 18|#18]], ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 26|#26]], and ''Transformers'' #29.
* ''Universal Monsters: Phantom of the Opera''
* ''Super Creepshow''
* ''Ghost Pepper'' Volume 1 TPB
* ''Invincible Universe: Battle Beast'' Volume 1 TPB

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 5: Generation One''''' ([[June 2]], [[2026]]) ISBN 153433355X / ISBN 978-1534333550
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #25–30
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V5.jpg|'''''Volume 5: Generation One''''' – cover art by [[David Nakayama]]
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 29

2026-02-23T17:07:46Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #29
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 28
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 30
|image=Transformers 2023 29 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[February 11]], [[2026]]
|coverdate= February 2026
|written by=[[Robert Kirkman]]
|art by=[[Dan Mora]]
|colors by=[[Sarah Stern]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''Having just lost one of their own for good, the Autobots wage their battle to destroy the evil forces of the Decepticons.'''

==Synopsis==
As he sucks the [[Energon]] from [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]]'s [[spark]], [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] tells the [[Autobot]] that he will honor him by savoring every drop. Aside from a delighted [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]], the rest of the [[Decepticon]]s can only watch in horror as he does so. [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] then comes across the scene, having been looking for Trailbreaker, and is horrified to see what his archenemy has done. He immediately attacks with his [[energon-axe]], and the two engage in a brutal battle, trading both ferocious blows and cutting words. Just as Megatron prepares to finish Optimus off with his fusion cannon, he is saved by [[Shredhead]], who jumps in front of the blast. The rest of the Autobots then join the fray, and another all-out battle between the two sides begins.

As the Autobots and Decepticons battle, Megatron orders the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]]s to get to the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]''. [[Hook (G1)|Hook]], [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]], and [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] manage to penetrate the ship and free Soundwave from his cell but are halted by the [[Magnus (rank)|Magnuses]] [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] and [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra]]. Though they are missing half their team, the three Constructicons form the upper half of [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] to crush them. Meanwhile, [[Bulkhead (G1)|Bulkhead]] contends with [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] while [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] tries to protect the local wildlife. Megatron confronts [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]]; however, right as he prepares to execute the turncoat, he is once again taken over by pink energy.

This momentary pause gives the Autobots a chance to rally again before a now fully formed Devastator barrels through clutching a number of the stasis locked Decepticons from the Ark as well as Soundwave, who gives the order to retreat as he goes to aid Megatron. Optimus orders the Autobots to give chase, believing this confrontation could secure an Autobot victory, but he is stopped by [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] and [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]], now on Earth!

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (11)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (12)
* [[Shredhead]] (13)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (14)
* [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] (15)
* [[Bulkhead (G1)|Bulkhead]] (16)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (17)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee Magnus]] (18)
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] (19)
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] (20)
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] (21)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (22)
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (23)
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (24)
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (25)
* [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (26)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (36)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (37)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (38)
* [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] (41)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (42)

|c2=
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (1)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (2)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (3)
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (4)
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] (5)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (6)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (7)
* [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]] (8)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (9)
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (10)
* [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]] (27)
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] (28)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (29)
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (30)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (31)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (32)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (33)
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] (34)
* [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] (35)
* [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]] (39)
* [[Slipstream (G1)|Slipstream]] (40)
* [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] (41)
}}

==Quotes==
"It is long past time you pay for your '''foul deeds''', Decepticon. The '''poison''' of our conflict has spread far enough!" 
"'''POISON?!''' Where you see '''poison''', I see '''glorious purpose'''." 
:— '''Optimus Prime''' and '''Megatron'''

"Don’t bother to get up, traitor. You’re right where you '''belong'''. On your knees, welcoming '''oblivion'''."
:—'''Megatron''' to Thundercracker

"Autobots! We have them right where we want them! Our time of victory is at hand! We can't let the Decepticons get away." 
"'''NO!''' Leave them to rule this insignificant planet of '''mud!''' '''It's long past time you answer to me!'''" 
:—'''Optimus Prime''' and '''Elita One'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Soundwave was captured by the Autobots back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 25|issue #25]].
* Once again, Megatron is suffering after effects from his harrowing experience with [[Dezimir]].
* Three of the Decepticons that Devastator is seen escaping with were shown to still be inactive in [[Transformers (2023) issue 27|issue #27]].
* Elita tasked Cliffjumper to venture into Decepticon territory and retrieve the parts needed to repair the [[space bridge]] in [[Transformers (2023) issue 26|issue #26]].
* Mirage seems to be given Hound's Hologram ability. If it only works for copies of himself or if he can create anything, is yet to be seen. This does leave his invisibility powers in question. An interesting change for a comic so inspired and accurate to everything G1.

===Transformers references===
*For one of the only times in fiction, Megatron's [[fusion cannon]] visibly has the lens that identifies it as his scope in alternate mode. Mora uses it to great effect by having Megatron's targets reflected within it.

===Errors===
*Similar to Ultra Magnus's blue antennae, Megatron's elbow-joints are incorrectly colored grey the whole issue instead of their usual red.
*While Skywarp is no stranger to his shoulders being miscolored (usually black instead of purple), they are notably colored ''grey'' on pages 7 and 8.
*Arcee Magnus is seen fighting alongside the Autobots in the forest on page 8, only to somehow magically appear inside the ''Ark'' in the very next panel, defending it alongside Ultra Magnus. Not helped by the fact that being able to take the invading Constructicons by surprise implies that she'd been there a while…
*On page 9, Hook's hands are incorrectly colored purple instead of green.
*Also on page 9, Ultra Magnus's antennas are incorrectly colored blue again. Unlike previous issues though, this error does ''not'' persist throughout the whole story, as they are correctly colored white on every subsequent panel.
*Scavenger and Bonecrusher's vehicle-mode treads are colored purple and green respectively in their robot modes, but turn black when combined into Devastator on page 11. At the end of page 18 however, Scavenger's treads are purple again in combined mode, though Bonecrusher's remain black.

===Other notes===
*Continuing Mora's tradition of highly-expressive art, Bonecrusher raises a sly-brow when Hook commands only half the team to form Devastator.
* Several characters appear to be drawn based on various figures released.
** Megatron and Optimus take heavy inspiration from their [[Yolopark#AMK Pro Series|Yolopark AMK model kits]].
** Devastator draws from his [[Devastator (G1)/toys#Blokees|Blokees Defender version model kit]].
** Bulkhead's maces/wrecking-balls are based directly off his [[Bulkhead (G1)#Legacy|Legacy toy]].
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Executive Editor Ben Abernathy.
** '''Character Spotlight:''' Mirage
** '''Uh Oh, Mom’s Home!:''' A look back at Elita One.
** '''Creator Spotlight:''' Ben asks colorist Sarah Stern what her [[alternate mode]] would be. Sarah answers an ice cream truck, imagining [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] running in fear as she blasts “{{w|The Entertainer (rag)|The Entertainer}}”.
* In the letters page, a reader brings up the possibility of [[Barricade (IDW)|Barricade]], [[Airachnid (G1)|Airachnid]], [[Lugnut (TF 2010)|Lugnut]], [[Shatter]] and [[Dropkick (Movie)|Dropkick]], [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]], [[Tarn (G1)|Tarn]], and [[Flamewar (G1)|Flamewar]] appearing in the comic, to which Robert Kirkman confirms one of them will show up within the next five issues. Place your bets!

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Optimus vs Megatron, by [[David Nakayama]]
* '''Cover B:''' Thundercracker faces the might of Megatron, by [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] and [[Mike Spicer]].
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover, by [[Jorge Corona]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover D:''' The Autobots, by [[Taurin Clarke]].
* '''Cover E:''' Design for Arcee, by Dan Mora and [[Andres Juarez]].

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 29 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 29 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 29 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 29 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 29 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 29 East Coast Comics Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 29 Redcode Cover.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisement===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''Transformers'' #30, ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 20|#20]], and ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 28|#28]]
* ''[[G.I. Joe (comic)|G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero]] Silent Missions'' returns!
* ''[[LEGO]] Ninjago: Strike of the Serpentine'' graphic novel
* ''Corpse Knight''
* ''Invincible Universe: Battle Beast'' #7

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 5: Generation One''''' ([[June 2]], [[2026]]) ISBN 153433355X / ISBN 978-1534333550
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #25–30
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V5.jpg|'''''Volume 5: Generation One''''' – cover art by [[David Nakayama]]
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 26

2026-01-22T20:08:55Z

Diesel Prime: /* Errors */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #26
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 25
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 27
|image=Transformers 2023 26 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[November 12]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=November 2025
|written by=[[Robert Kirkman]]
|art by=[[Dan Mora]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''With new and unexpected allies alike, Optimus Prime must figure out how he and the Autobots will move forward on the path to ending their war.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] wildly opens fire on [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] and [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]], still panicking after his experience in [[Cobra-La]] and screaming "DEATH TO THE AUTOBOTS!" He tries to remove [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] from [[Teletraan I|Teletraan-1]], but both Skywarp and the [[Autobot]]s warn him that doing so will kill Skywarp. Thankfully, his rampage is halted by [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]], who rips the [[incendiary gun]]s off his arms. Thundercracker blames the Autobots for Skywarp's condition, not believing them when they say they lacked the capability to undo what [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] did. However, [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] then returns, accompanied by [[General Flagg]] and his supply of [[Energon]].

Recognizing that Thundercracker still has some nobility in him, Optimus tells the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]] that they will use their new resources to repair Skywarp. Magnus is concerned about showing this level of mercy to a [[Decepticon]], but Optimus insists they have to find common ground as Cybertronians if they are to have any hope of ending the war. Flagg commends Optimus on his conflict resolution skills, and Optimus introduces the rest of the Autobots to their new human ally. Wheeljack is initially wary of the General, but is thankful upon seeing the recovered bodies of [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] and [[Bulkhead (G1)|Bulkhead]]. As the two discuss the rebuilding efforts in [[Chicago]], Wheeljack proposes that - with enough resources - he could build the city into something brand new, with state of the art defense capabilities, an offer Flagg readily accepts.

Some time later, Wheeljack reports that he should be able to get Teletraan working again, offering to repair Optimus once he's done, but Optimus insists they start repairs with those who need them most, in this case Skywarp (despite objections from Wheeljack and Magnus, both still uneasy at the presence of Thundercracker). Optimus then shares some of their Energon with the imprisoned Soundwave, but the reception of his kindness is far chillier than Thundercracker's. Optimus questions why Soundwave would remain so loyal to the Decepticons after they abandoned him, but ultimately leaves his prisoner to his Energon.

In Chicago, the Autobots are still aiding in cleanup alongside [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] and [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]]. [[Shredhead]] especially proves impressive to their new friends, managing to help [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] save a group of humans out from under some heavy debris. Meanwhile, at [[Shadow Watch]], [[Miles Mayhem]] examines the 3D scans that they took of Optimus Prime during his visit to their underground base. This will allow them to study the [[Transformer]]'s [[transformation]]. Mayhem asks the technician if he's shared this with General Flagg, believing the fewer people who know about this, the better. When the technician confirms Flagg doesn't, Mayhem pulls out a pistol and shoots him.

On [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] tasks [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] with venturing into Decepticon territory to recover the components of [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]'s [[space bridge]]. She sees it as an opportunity to redeem himself for his betrayal, but Cliffjumper insists he did the right thing to help [[Earth]]. Elita is tired of hearing about Earth, instead focusing on the plight of their fellow Autobots, many of whom lay in [[stasis lock]] around their base.

On the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'', Wheeljack has finished his repairs to both Teletraan and Skywarp. The Decepticon teleporter seems confused, but when Optimus tries to explain what happened, he attacks the Autobot leader. Wheeljack desperately tries to shield Teletraan from any stray blasts while Thundercracker tries to get his fellow Seeker to stop. However, it is to no avail, as Skywarp transforms and flies through the ship to escape. He comes across Soundwave, who tells him to return to the Decepticons and alert [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]. Thundercracker tries to talk Skywarp down, reminding him that it was their fellow Decepticons that mutilated Skywarp in the first place, but Skywarp insists that it was just desperation, and that things will return to normal with Megatron back. But Thundercracker refuses to go back, and so Skywarp simply transforms and flies away.

Aboard the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]'', [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] and [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] have scoured the seafloor and found what little bits of Energon they could, bringing it before Megatron. Their leader is disappointed, as such a pittance is barely enough for his own repairs, let alone their entire forces. Scrapper suggests that they could overtake [[human]] energy generation and use that to create more Energon, but his suggestion is interrupted when Megatron falls to his knees, shrieking. The other Decepticons can do little else but look on as Megatron grabs his head in pain, his eyes glowing purple...

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (1)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (2)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (5)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (6)
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] (8)
* [[Bulkhead (G1)|Bulkhead]] (9)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (11)
* [[Shredhead]] (13)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (14)
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (16)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (17)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (20)
* [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] (21)
* [[Moonracer (G1)|Moonracer]] (22)
* [[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]] (23)
* [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] (24)
* [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]] (25)
* [[Kup (G1)|Kup]] (26)

|c2=
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (3)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (4)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (10)
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (27)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (28)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (29)
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (30)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (31)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (32)
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (33)
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (34)

|c3=
* [[General Flagg]] (7)
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (12)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (15)
* [[Miles Mayhem]] (18)
* [[Shadow Watch]] researcher (19)
}}

==Quotes==
"Optimus, is this wise?" 
"[[Thundercracker (G1)|He]] cares for his brethren, as we do. How can we ever hope to end the war if we cannot find common ground?" 
"I notice you said 'end', not 'win'." 
"Forgive me, friend. I find I cannot fathom an end to this conflict that would feel like a win."
:—'''Ultra Magnus''' and '''Optimus Prime'''

"It's okay. We're '''strong'''. We're going to get through this." 
"You sound just like him." 
"My dad?" 
"No. Optimus Prime."
:—'''Spike''' and '''Carly'''

"You always were '''weak'''. The Decepticons don't need you. You will not be missed."
:—'''Skywarp''' to Thundercracker

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Skywarp was cannibalized by Starscream and Soundwave to repair Teletraan-1 back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 4|issue #4]].
* Carly remarks that Spike is sounding more like Optimus Prime, possibly as a side effect of their connecting through the [[Matrix of Leadership]] in [[Transformers (2023) issue 22|issue #22]].
* Shockwave's space bridge was destroyed in [[Transformers (2023) issue 12|issue #12]], when Optimus blew it up to save Earth, but stranding Elita and Cliffjumper back on Cybertron.
* Kup was last seen getting blown up in Elita's assault on Shockwave's lab in [[Transformers (2023) issue 7|issue #7]] and his body was seen in [[Transformers (2023) issue 15|issue #15]] being left behind by [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] when he recovered [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]], claiming Kup was "gone." Evidently, Elita had him recovered, which is good since he isn't as gone as Bluestreak believed.

===''Transformers'' references===
* Thundercracker uses his sonic boom attack, an ability first listed on his original [[Bob Budiansky]]-penned tech specs.
* Thundercracker's doubts about the Decepticon cause is an element pulled from his original profile. Past iterations have also played up this angle of the character, most notably his [[2005 IDW continuity]] [[Thundercracker (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|incarnation]].
* Scrapper's suggestion that the Decepticons could use human-based energy generators is a callback to the Decepticons' usual Energon-harvesting schemes in the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]].
* Mayhem having the schematics of Optimus Prime recalls the origins of a few [[Nemesis Prime (Prime)|previous]] [[Nemesis Prime (G1)#Alternators toy bio| man-made]] [[Nemesis Prime (AOE)| recreations]] of the Autobot leader.
* Following Mora's usual use of toys as references for drawing, the ''Nemesis'' is based on its [[Nemesis (G1)#Legacy_2|''Legacy'' toy]].

===''M.A.S.K.'' references===
* Miles Mayhem is fascinated by Optimus Prime's transformative abilities, clearly foreshadowing the development of the signature transforming vehicles of [[M.A.S.K.]] and [[V.E.N.O.M.]].

===Real life references===
* The helicopters delivering supplies to the ''Ark'' are {{w|Boeing CH-47 Chinook}}s.

===Errors===
* Kup's cheeks are incorrectly colored like his helmet.
* On the final two pages, the gun barrel on Megatron's back is colored black like his fusion cannon instead of the proper gray.
* On the penultimate page, a "Lorem ipsum" placeholder text is placed between the bottom panels.
* Mayhem has a full scan of Optimus Prime, despite the Autobot leader still not having a fully-repaired right arm.
* Ultra Magnus's antenna are blue again.

===Other notes===
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Executive Editor Ben Abernathy.
** '''Character Spotlight:''' Skywarp
** '''Not Your Kup of Tea:''' Don't worry readers, Kup did indeed survive his seemingly-fatal ordeal from issue #7.
** '''Creator Spotlight:''' Ben asks letterer Rus Wooton what his [[alternate mode]] would be. Wooton suggests an amphibious vehicle so he could go on land and water.

===Covers (12)===
* '''Cover A:''' Optimus Prime versus Thundercracker, by [[David Nakayama]]
* '''Cover B:''' Shredhead, by [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover, by [[Jorge Corona]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover D:''' The Decepticons, by [[Kael Ngu]].
* '''Cover E:''' Design for Optimus Prime, by Dan Mora and [[Andres Juarez]].

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 26 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 26 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 26 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 26 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 26 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 26 Comickaze Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 26 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 26 The 616 Comics Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 26 John Giang Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 26 TopShelfComic Cover C.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 26 TopShelfComic Cover A.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 26 TopShelfComic Cover B.jpg
</gallery>

===Advertisement===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 14|#14]] and [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 15|#15]] and ''Transformers'' #27.
* The Quintesson War comes to ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 25|#25]]!
* ''The Art of ''Daniel Warren Johnson''
* ''Invincible Universe: Battle Beast'' Volume 1 TPB
* ''Blood & Thunder'' Volume 1 TPB

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 5: Generation One''''' ([[June 2]], [[2026]]) ISBN 153433355X / ISBN 978-1534333550
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #25–30
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V5.jpg|'''''Volume 5: Generation One''''' – cover art by [[David Nakayama]]
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 25

2026-01-22T20:08:17Z

Diesel Prime: /* Errors */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #25
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 24
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 26
|image=Transformers 2023 25 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[October 8]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=October 2025
|written by=[[Robert Kirkman]]
|art by=[[Jorge Corona]] (pages 1-12) [[Dan Mora]] (pages 15-34)
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''A new day dawns for the Autobots! With Megatron and the Decepticons defeated (for now), Optimus Prime receives an unexpected offer of aid from humanity.'''

==Synopsis==
[[File:TF2023 no. 25 - Megatron Punches Devastator.jpg|thumb|left|250px|Attack on Titan.]]
[[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] is not happy. Badly injured from his defeat at the hands of [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and forced to retreat to the sunken ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]'', he berates the [[Decepticon]]s for their failure, to the point of physically hurling [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] to the ground, sending the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]]s flying apart. But the bot that earns the most of his scorn is [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]], whose mangled body he orders thrown in with the rest of the dead Decepticons. Megatron then reminds the Decepticons that their ultimate goal is achieving peace for the good of all [[Transformer|Cybertronian]]s — peace through tyranny. Unable to return to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], Megatron asks his soldiers if they will be strong enough to accomplish their goals here on [[Earth]]. Each one answers in the affirmative, and together they begin to chant, "all hail Megatron!" As the chorus rings out across the ship, Starscream's eye lights up red once more.

In [[Chicago]], the Autobots are helping clean up the damage from their battle with the Decepticons. Optimus is sorrowful at seeing the devastation his war brought to [[human]]ity until he is approached by a little girl wearing a face mask. She tells him that she was scared of him before, but isn't anymore; she knows he's not a bad robot like "those other ones." Optimus tells her he doesn't believe anything can be truly bad, only misguided. As [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] clears rubble away, [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] senses he is unwell. Much like Optimus, Magnus despairs at the destruction, believing it should have been his duty to prevent it. Arcee and [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] assure him that they all did as much as they could. [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] then alerts them to a signal coming from beneath a pile of rubble. As they move to help whoever is trapped, [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] bursts free! Optimus immediately moves to engage, ordering the other Autobots to evacuate and protect the humans. Soundwave asks where Megatron is, but does not believe Optimus when he says Megatron fled. The two exchange blows, but Optimus quickly finishes the fight by slamming Soundwave to the ground. He orders [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] to restrain the Decepticon and take him to their base, Magnus accompanying him. Optimus is then greeted by [[General Flagg]]. Flagg says that they've figured the Autobots must be "the good ones" and is here to offer Prime a partnership with the [[United States of America|United States government]], believing they could help each other. Prime takes full responsibility for bringing the Decepticons to Earth and that the Autobots do not need anything from the humans in exchange for fighting them. Still, Flagg insists Optimus accompany him back to his base, saying he has some things he'd like to show him.

Wheeljack, Magnus, and Jazz take Soundwave to what constitutes their "base": the cavern in the mountain where the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'' used to be. Wheeljack ventures inside the cave to explore, coming across the skeleton of a ''Tyrannosaurus rex''. As he goes to examine the fossils, the cave starts to shake. In an instant, Wheeljack is inside the ''Ark'', the ship having teleported back to its exact same spot once more, much to the Autobots' confusion. Magnus and Jazz join him inside and place Soundwave in the brig. Jazz and Wheeljack wonder where the ship could have gone when they are attacked by [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]]! The Decepticon [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]] is panicked, desperately wanting to know where he just was, claiming to have seen [[Cobra-La|monsters like he'd never seen before]]!

Optimus Prime is airlifted to a [[United States military]] base. There, General Flagg continues his discussion with Prime, underscoring the importance of their working together to stop the Decepticons and offering Prime any resources the Autobots might need. He then leads Optimus to a secret underground facility called "[[Shadow Watch]]," where Prime discovers the deactivated bodies of [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] and [[Bulkhead (G1)|Bulkhead]]. Flagg tells Optimus that both were found some decades ago and brought here to be studied, but that they were unable to revive either of them, suggesting Optimus might be able to. Optimus laments that they don't have the [[Energon]] to do so, but that's when Flagg reveals his other gift: a massive cache of Energon crystals that Shadow Watch has been stockpiling over the years. Prime and Flagg are then greeted by the head of Shadow Watch... a man named [[Miles Mayhem]].

Back on Cybertron, [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] has gathered her troops. She is still furious at [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] for sending [[Shredhead]] to Earth, but has reluctantly allowed him out of prison since they can't spare anymore troops. [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] tries to advocate for Cliff wanting to help Optimus, but Elita shuts him down. Optimus Prime abandoned them, so now Elita is done. As far as she is concerned, Optimus Prime is their enemy!

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (21)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (22)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (23)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (24)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (25)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (26)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (28)
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] (33)
* [[Bulkhead (G1)|Bulkhead]] (34)
* [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] (38)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (39)
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] (40)
* [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] (41)

|c2=
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (1)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (2)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (3)
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (4)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (5)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (6)
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (7)
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (8)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (9)
* [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]] (10)
* [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]] (11)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (12)
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] (13)
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] (14)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (15)
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] (16)
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (17)
* [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]] (18)
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] (19)
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (20)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (29)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (31)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (32)

|c3=
* Masked girl (27)
* [[General Flagg]] (30)
* [[Miles Mayhem]] (35)

|h4=[[Cobra-La]]|c4=
* [[Golobulus]] (36)
* [[Royal Guard]] (37)
}}

==Quotes==
"Yes, my Decepticons. Peace... We shall one day know peace. And there is only one way to achieve it. '''Peace through tyranny.'''"
:—'''Megatron''' lays down the Decepticon manifesto.

"You and I are the same. Recognizing that is the first step to becoming a compassionate being. Which all sentient life should strive to be."
:—'''Optimus Prime''' imparts some wisdom to the masked little girl.

"We spend all our time worrying about little green men. Never even considered '''space trucks'''. It's always what you least expect."
:—'''General Flagg''' has a sense of humor.

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* The Decepticons have retreated to the safety of the sunken ''Nemesis'', last seen in [[Transformers (2023) issue 12|issue #12]]. Soundwave had claimed that the ship was "lost" in [[Transformers (2023) issue 15|issue #15]], and the last we saw any pieces of it was the [[space bridge]] portal that Shredhead came through in [[Transformers (2023) issue 23|issue #23]].
* Brawl reappears after being missing from [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] in the previous issue.
* When Megatron throws Starscream's body into the scrapheap, we see the bodies of Reflector, Frenzy (both killed by Optimus Prime in [[Transformers (2023) issue 5|issue #5]]), and Astrotrain (killed by Megatron-wielded-by-Starscream in [[Transformers (2023) issue 20|issue #20]]).
* Optimus Prime's right arm is still the unfinished replacement that Wheeljack made for him in issue #23.
* Though he goes unnamed throughout the issue (only being identified by name in the “Energon Experience” segment in the backmatter), General Flagg has been a recurring presence across the Energon Universe titles, first appearing in ''[[Destro (comic)|Destro]]'' [[Destro issue 3|#3]] and then ''Transformers'' [[Transformers (2023) issue 21|issues #21]] and [[Transformers (2023) issue 22|#22]], overseeing the capture of Ultra Magnus.
** When Magnus was captured in [[Transformers (2023) issue 18|issue #18]], the soldiers doing so were seen wearing the star emblem of [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]], implying that the Joes were a far larger operation than simply [[Duke (G.I. Joe)|Duke]]'s team and [[Night Force]]. However, the introduction of Shadow Watch suggests the opposite: that G.I. Joe and Night Force are under the purview of Shadow Watch, with [[Hawk (G.I. Joe)|Colonel Hawk]] working for them. This also lines up with Hawk and the government keeping information about Starscream secret from Duke in ''[[Duke (comic)|Duke]]'' [[Duke issue 1|#1]], as that was not their first encounter with the Transformers.
* Where did the ''Ark'' go when Thundercracker activated Skywarp's teleportation ability in issue #21? [[Cobra-La]], apparently! The last time readers saw the secret snake civilization was ''[[Cobra Commander (comic)|Cobra Commander]]'' [[Cobra Commander issue 5|#5]], where Golobulus discovered the origin of the Transformers and sent [[Pythona]] into space and the pages of ''[[Void Rivals]]''.
* We last saw Elita and her team in issue #22, with her ordering Cliffjumper imprisoned after he sent Shredhead back to Earth.
* Elita briefly mentions [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]], who was last seen getting his head crushed by Optimus Prime in [[Transformers (2023) issue 12|issue #12]]

===Transformers references===
*The Decepticons retreating to a downed spaceship as an underwater base is reminiscent of the [[Decepticon Headquarters (G1 Earth)|Decepticon headquarters]] from the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]].
* When addressing the Decepticons, Megatron calls each of them out by name, with each address being given its own word balloon. This is an homage to the classic [[introdump]] style from the original [[Marvel Comics|Marvel]] ''[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Transformers]]'' comics by [[Bob Budiansky]].
* During his speech Megatron invokes his classic motto, "peace through tyranny," which first appeared on his original [[The Transformers (toyline)|Generation 1]] [[Megatron (G1)/toys#The_Transformers|toy]] packaging.
* The transition between the Corona-drawn pages and Mora-drawn pages is done as an homage to the iconic "symbol flip" [[scene transition]]s from the Generation 1 cartoon.
* Part of the new art style is Jazz having the door wings from his [[Jazz (G1)/toys#Toys|Generation 1 toy]].
* Optimus Prime is drawn based on his [[Optimus Prime (G1)/merchandise#Yolopark|Yolopark AMK Pro toy]]. Similarly, Skywarp and Thundercracker are based on [[Starscream (G1)/merchandise#Yolopark|Starscream's AMK Pro toy]].
* Wheeljack discovering the fossilized skeleton of a ''Tyrannosaurus rex'' in the cavern of the Ark's crash is a direct homage to a similar scene from the G1 cartoon episode "[[S.O.S. Dinobots]]," in which Wheeljack got the idea to create the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobot]]s after he discovered [[dinosaur (dinosaur)|dinosaur]] fossils in the cave occupied by the crashed Ark.
* When the Ark returns, it is now at an angle with its starboard side sticking out of the mountain. Meanwhile, the stern side is completely obscured by the rocks. This angled placement is an obvious callback to how the crashed Ark was parked in the Generation 1 cartoon, although in this issue five engines are still visible compared to the Ark's cartoon counterpart [[:File:CrashedArk1.jpg|showing just three]].
* Bulkhead's design is partially inspired by the ''[[Transformers: Legacy|Legacy]]'' [[Transformers: Prime (franchise)|Prime Universe]] [[Bulkhead (Prime)#Legacy|Bulkhead figure]].

===Other Hasbro franchise references===
* '''MILES MAYHEM?!?!''' What's the leader of the [[V.E.N.O.M.|Vicious Evil Network of Mayhem]] doing here? This mustachioed menace marks the second character from the [[M.A.S.K. (franchise)|''M.A.S.K.'' franchise]] to be introduced to the Energon Universe after the appearance of [[Matt Trakker]] earlier this year in the [[G.I. Joe Energon Universe 2025 Special story|''G.I. Joe'' segment]] of the ''[[Energon Universe 2025 Special]]''. In that story, Trakker was shown to be exceptionally paranoid and had some familiarity with the Transformers due to reasons he couldn't share with [[Clutch (G.I. Joe)|Clutch]]. Could it be that he was also part of Shadow Watch at one point?
** Mayhem's introduction here as the head of a secret government program involved in "studying" the Transformers with a connection to a General from G.I. Joe is very similar to his introduction to [[IDW Publishing]]'s [[Hasbro Universe]] in the pages of ''[[Revolution]]'' [[Secret Raiders: A Revolution Prelude|#0]].

===Real life references===
* In what is likely a visual nod to the style of fight choreography employed by [[Daniel Warren Johnson]], Optimus defeats Soundwave using a professional wrestling technique known as a {{w|spinebuster}}.

===Errors===
* The “thruster” thingy on the top of Devastator’s chestplate is colored green, instead of the correct purple (see the image above).
* The deceased Frenzy’s head is looking rather intact, considering it was split open at the roof of his mouth against a guardrail.
* In the panel where Optimus tackles Soundwave to perform the spinebuster, the "volume dial" on Soundwave's left calf has been misinterpreted as a tire.
* Ultra Magnus's antenna are colored blue.
* [[Mike Mayhew]] has clearly used {{w|Generative artificial intelligence|generative AI}} to create his exclusive cover. Apart from the overall mushiness of the linework, wonky perspective lines, and strange colour textures, key tells include the completely different tyre treads between body and leg; the thin upper radiator grille (missing from many modern depictions of Optimus) only half-rendered in the space between the windows and the main grille; the beginnings of a second smokestack appearing behind the one on his left shoulder; and completely different details on the left versus right side of Prime's body. Listen, we've seen some pretty hinky variant covers in our time, but this is just not how humans draw. A 9.8 graded black and white "sketch" cover variant will set you back a cool £213 on Mike's website.
* Meanwhile, [[Godtail]] has drawn [[Cliffjumper (WFC)|''Prime'' Cliffjumper]] instead of the Cliffjumper that actually appears in the comic, with Arcee being based on her [[Flame Toys]] [[Arcee (G1)/toys#Furai Model|''Furai'' model kit]].

===Other notes===
* When the Energon Universe first launched, Robert Kirkman often cited [[Bulkhead (Animated)|Bulkhead]] as an example of a non-G1 character that he'd personally love to see introduced at some point, suggesting he would try to get him in somewhere.
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Executive Editor Ben Abernathy.
** '''Character Spotlight:''' Optimus Prime
** '''Cobra-La La La La!:''' It’s a good thing Thundercracker and Skywarp survived their brief encounter with Cobra-La given what Golobulus did to Megatron in the [[Transformers Energon Universe 2024 Special story|''Transformers'' segment]] of the ''[[Energon Universe 2024 Special]]''.
** '''Creator Spotlight:''' Ben asks Dan Mora what his [[alternate mode]] would be. Mora suggests a dinosaur before settling on werewolf.

===Covers (61)===
* '''Cover A:''' Optimus Prime, Wheeljack, Trailbreaker, and the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]] roll out into a brand new era, by [[David Nakayama]].
* '''Cover B:''' Optimus pulls the tape from Soundwave’s chest, by [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] & Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C (1:10 Copy Incentive):''' Connecting cover, by Jorge Corona & Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover D (1:25 Copy Incentive):''' The Autobots, by [[Kael Ngu]].
* '''Cover E (1:50 Copy Incentive):''' Design for Jazz, by Dan Mora & [[Andres Juarez]].
* '''Cover F (1:100 Copy Incentive):''' Foil cover of Optimus Prime, by [[Jae Lee]] & [[June Chung]].
* '''Cover G:''' Blank sketch cover with an Autobot logo in the corner box.
* '''Cover H:''' Blank sketch cover with a Decepticon logo in the corner box.
* '''Cover I:''' Foil version of Cover A.
* '''Cover J:''' Die cut cover of Optimus Prime’s face, by [[John Amor]] and Andres Juarez.
* '''Cover K:''' Die cut cover of the Autobots behind a melting sheet of metal, by [[Eric Canete]].
* '''Second Printing Cover A:''' by [[Jason Howard]].
* '''Second Printing Cover B:''' by Jason Howard.
* '''Second Printing Cover C:''' by Jason Howard.
* '''Second Printing Cover D:''' by Jason Howard.
* '''Captured Collectibles / Nomasss Comics [[New York Comic Con]] 2025 Cover:''' by [[Hector Trunnec]]. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''JAF Comics Cover:''' by [[Chris Campana]].
* '''ThatGuyWill Cover A:''' by [[Vincenzo Riccardi]]. Limited to 750 copies.
* '''ThatGuyWill Cover B:''' Foil virgin variant. Limited to 750 copies.
* '''Vinny Blanco Comics New York Comic Con 2025 Cover:''' by [[Livio Ramondelli]]. Limited to 750 copies.
* '''PCB Hobby New York Comic Con 2025 Cover A:''' by [[Christopher Marchman]]. Limited to 750 copies.
* '''PCB Hobby New York Comic Con 2025 Cover B:''' Virgin variant. Limited to 750 copies.
* '''Summit Comics & Games Cover:''' by Jason Howard.
* '''Comic Kingdom Creative New York Comic Con 2025 Cover:''' by [[Shelby Robertson]]. Limited to 750 copies.
* '''The 616 Comics Cover A:''' by [[Marco Turini]]. Limited to 750 copies.
* '''The 616 Comics Cover B:''' Foil virgin variant. Limited to 750 copies.
* '''Mike Mayhew Studio Cover A:''' by Mike Mayhew. Limited to 1,500 copies.
* '''Mike Mayhew Studio Cover B:''' Virgin variant. Limited to 750 copies.
* '''Mike Mayhew Studio Cover C:''' Foil virgin variant. Limited to 750 copies.
* '''Mike Mayhew Studio Cover D:''' Black & White virgin variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Collector Cave New York Comic Con 2025 Cover:''' by [[Nick Harrigan]]. Limited to 350 copies.
* '''Shop Fan Expo Cover:''' by [[Javier Fernández]] & [[Alex Sinclair]]. Limited to 750 copies.
* '''Big Alpaca Comics Big Texas Comicon 2025 Cover:''' by [[Jonathan Uribe]]. Limited to 750 copies.
* '''Big Time Collectibles New York Comic Con 2025 Cover A:''' by [[Mico Suayan]]. Limited to 300 copies.
* '''Big Time Collectibles New York Comic Con 2025 Cover B:''' by [[John Giang]]. Limited to 300 copies.
* '''Comic Inspiration New York Comic Con 2025 Cover A:''' by [[Tyler Kirkham]] & [[Ifansyah Noor]]. Limited to 750 copies.
* '''Comic Inspiration New York Comic Con 2025 Cover B:''' by Tyler Kirkham & Ifansyah Noor. Limited to 750 copies.
* '''East Coast Comics New York Comic Con 2025 Cover A:''' by [[Franck Uzan]] & [[Martin Zavala]].
* '''East Coast Comics New York Comic Con 2025 Cover B:''' by Franck Uzan & Martin Zavala.
* '''East Side Comics / KRS Comics / The Comic Corner / The Comic Mint New York Comic Con 2025 Cover:''' by [[Alan Quah]]. Limited to 300 copies.
* '''Davis Rider Comics New York Comic Con 2025 Cover:''' by [[Satoshi Shiki]]. Limited to 250 copies.
* '''Afshari Comics Big Texas Comicon 2025 Cover:''' by [[Leno Hernandez]]. Limited to 750 copies.
* '''Big Clutch New York Comic Con 2025 [[eBay]] Live Cover A:''' by [[Suspiria Vilchez]]. Limited to 350 copies.
* '''Big Clutch New York Comic Con 2025 eBay Live Cover B:''' Foil virgin variant. Limited to 250 copies.
* '''Big Clutch New York Comic Con 2025 eBay Live Cover C:''' by [[Mark Spears]]. Limited to 350 copies.
* '''Big Clutch New York Comic Con 2025 eBay Live Cover D:''' Foil virgin variant. Limited to 250 copies.
* '''Big Clutch New York Comic Con 2025 eBay Live Cover E:''' by [[Bill Sienkiewicz]]. Limited to 250 copies.
* '''Big Clutch New York Comic Con 2025 eBay Live Cover F:''' by [[Godtail]]. Limited to 450 copies.
* '''Big Clutch New York Comic Con 2025 eBay Live Cover G:''' by Godtail. Limited to 450 copies.
* '''Big Clutch New York Comic Con 2025 eBay Live Cover H:''' Foil virgin variant. Limited to 300 copies.
* '''Big Clutch New York Comic Con 2025 eBay Live Cover I:''' Foil virgin variant. Limited to 300 copies.
* '''Big Clutch New York Comic Con 2025 eBay Live Cover J:''' by [[Pete Carroll]]. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Big Clutch New York Comic Con 2025 eBay Live Cover K:''' Foil virgin variant. Limited to 300 copies.
* '''Big Clutch New York Comic Con 2025 eBay Live Cover L:''' Black & White virgin variant. Limited to 200 copies.
* '''Big Clutch New York Comic Con 2025 eBay Live Cover M:''' by Pete Carroll. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Big Clutch New York Comic Con 2025 eBay Live Cover N:''' Foil virgin variant. Limited to 300 copies.
* '''Big Clutch New York Comic Con 2025 eBay Live Cover O:''' Black & White virgin variant. Limited to 200 copies.
* '''Heart of Comics / imCollectible Art Cover:''' by [[Charles Paul Wilson III]].
* '''Walmart [[San Diego Comic-Con]] 2025 Cover:''' by Jae Lee. Limited to 750 copies.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 25 Cover A.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Cover B.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Cover C.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Cover D.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Cover E.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Cover F.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Cover G.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Cover H.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Cover I.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Cover J.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Cover K.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 2nd Ptg Cover A.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 2nd Ptg Cover B.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 2nd Ptg Cover C.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 2nd Ptg Cover D.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Hector Trunnec Cover.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 JAF Comics Cover.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 ThatGuyWill Cover A.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 ThatGuyWill Cover B.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Livio Ramondelli Cover.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Christopher Marchman Cover A.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Christopher Marchman Cover B.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Summit Comics & Games Cover.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Shelby Robertson Cover.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 The 616 Comics Cover B.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Mike Mayhew Cover A.jpg|Begrudgingly commissioned by Marvel UK Soundwave.
File:Transformers 2023 25 Mike Mayhew Cover B.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Mike Mayhew Cover C.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Mike Mayhew Cover D.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Nick Harrigan Cover.jpg
File:Fanexpo25.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Jonathan Uribe Cover.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Mico Suayan Cover.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 John Giang Cover.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Tyler Kirkham Cover A.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Tyler Kirkham Cover B.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Franck Uzan Cover A.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Franck Uzan Cover B.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Alan Quah Cover.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Satoshi Shiki Cover.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Leno Hernandez Cover.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Suspiria Vilchez Cover A.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Suspiria Vilchez Cover B.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Mark Spears Cover A.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Mark Spears Cover B.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Bill Sienkiewicz Cover.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Godtail Cover A.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Godtail Cover B.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Godtail Cover C.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Godtail Cover D.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Pete Carroll Cover A.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Pete Carroll Cover B.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Pete Carroll Cover C.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Pete Carroll Cover D.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Pete Carroll Cover E.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Pete Carroll Cover F.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Charles Paul Wilson III Cover.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Jae Lee Cover.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Marcelo Matere Cover.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 25 Garrett Gunn Cover.jpg
</gallery>

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 5: Generation One''''' ([[June 2]], [[2026]]) ISBN 153433355X / ISBN 978-1534333550
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #25–30
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V5.jpg|'''''Volume 5: Generation One''''' – cover art by [[David Nakayama]]
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 27

2026-01-22T20:07:22Z

Diesel Prime: /* Errors */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #27
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 26
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 28
|image=Transformers 2023 27 Cover B.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[December 10]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=December 2025
|written by=[[Robert Kirkman]]
|art by=[[Dan Mora]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''With Teletraan back up and running, the long-dormant Autobots are reawakening and have to adjust to this new world... and their new teammates!'''

==Synopsis==
With [[Teletraan I]] repaired, the [[Autobot]]s have begun repairing more of their fallen warriors. However, some such as [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] and [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] are still far beyond repair. Outside the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]], [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] and [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] talk about taking some time to repair themselves with a dinner away from the whirlwind of action their lives have been lately with the [[Transformer]]s. However, their conversation is interrupted by [[General Flagg]], who attempts to apologize to Carly for capturing and interrogating her, but is halted by [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]. Magnus tells Flagg that it is only out of appreciation for his recent aid that Magnus hasn't told [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] about his capture and torture at Flagg's hands. However, Flagg defends his actions as the necessary precautions to defend his people against a hostile alien threat, ending with a veiled threat that Optimus Prime would understand. Magnus is left speechless.

At the [[Hoover Dam]], the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s cause terror, blasting at fleeing humans while [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] siphons their electricity into [[Energon]] cubes. Suddenly, [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] teleports in and joins them in their carnage.

[[File:TF2023 no. 27 - Thundercracker Joins Autobots.jpg|thumb|left|Everything's turned upside-down now.|200px]]
Optimus Prime sits with [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]], who contemplates the cruelty with which his fellow [[Decepticon]]s have conducted themselves. Prime is heartened to know that Thundercracker shares his distaste for how their violence affects the innocents of [[Earth]], and admits that even the Autobots sometimes see the planet as beneath them. Thundercracker agrees, saying he would choose Skywarp over the humans, a mindset Prime does not begrudge.

At the [[Shadow Watch]] Underground Base, General Flagg meets with [[Miles Mayhem]], asking if Mayhem got everything he needs to complete his “little project” from the Transformers. Mayhem is indignant at this assessment, blustering that his technology is far more advanced than anything else on the planet, all thanks to ''his'' brilliance. When Flagg reminds him that [[Matt Trakker]] helped him with the project, Mayhem attacks him. However, Flagg easily dispenses with him, and due to the fact that Mayhem hasn't produced a single prototype, he sees no reason to keep him around as Director of Shadow Watch, ordering a group of soldiers to arrest him.

Back on the Ark, [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] pleads with Optimus to let himself get repaired, but Prime continues to put the needs of others before himself, suggesting they begin searching for the rest of the Autobots thrown from the Ark when it crashed. He also considers repairing the remaining Decepticons, but Thundercracker objects, fearing the harm that would come from his reawakened brothers and sisters. Prime agrees and finally decides to be repaired. Outside, Ultra Magnus meets with [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] and confesses to her that, after everything that has happened to him, he wishes to pass the title of Magnus to her. Inside, with Thundercracker having now replaced his Decepticon insignia with an Autobrand, the fully-repaired Optimus Prime tells his Autobots that they have a new mission: ridding the planet of all Decepticons once and for all!

On [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] sneaks through Decepticon territory with a handful of recovered pieces of equipment. However, while he can avoid the patrols of Decepticons on foot, he has no idea that his every movement is being watched from above… by [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]], still alive and atop one of the towers!

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] (1)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (2)
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] (3)
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] (4)
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] (5)
* [[Bulkhead (G1)|Bulkhead]] (6)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (10)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (17)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (18)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (20)
* [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] (24)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (25)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (26)
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] (27)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (28)

|c2=
* [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]] (11)
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] (12)
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] (13)
* [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]] (14)
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] (15)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (16)
* [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] (21)
* [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]] (22)
* [[Slipstream (G1)|Slipstream]] (23)
* [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] (29)
* [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] (30)

|c3=
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (7)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (8)
* [[General Flagg]] (9)
* [[Miles Mayhem]] (19)
}}

==Quotes==
"There are those among my Autobots who see my actions on this world as folly. Even they, though good of heart, see this world as '''beneath''' us. '''Unworthy''' of our notice." 
"Is it okay to admit there's a part of me that agrees with them? If I had to choose between Skywarp and a hundred of these creatures, I would choose Skywarp. But that doesn't mean I '''want''' them to die."
:—'''Optimus Prime''' and '''Thundercracker'''

"Man! You spend a few million years out cold and the standards sure do change around here! What’s next? [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] joining up?"
:—'''Bulkhead''', upon seeing Thundercracker with the Autobrand

"Run, run, little Autobot. I'll peel the steel from your frame soon enough. So swears... '''SHOCKWAVE.'''"
:—'''Shockwave''' returns.

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Brawn and Blaster both had hi-and-bye cameos earlier in the series before appearing revived here (in the [[Transformers Energon Universe 2024 Special story| Free Comic Book Day 2024 story]] [[Transformers (2023) issue 5|and issue #5]], respectively).
* Jetfire has been fully repaired after being near-fatally wounded by [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] in [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|issue #1]] and revived but mode locked in [[Transformers (2023) issue 8|issue #8]].
* Jetfire remarks that there was good in Starscream once, something we saw — along with their friendship — in the flashbacks of [[Transformers (2023) issue 13|issues #13]] and [[Transformers (2023) issue 14|#14]].
* Carly and Ultra Magnus were captured by [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]]/Shadow Watch in [[Transformers (2023) issue 18|issue #18]].
* As Optimus and Thundercracker talk, we see a fully grown buck in a callback to the infamous deer scene from issue #2.
* Ratchet and [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] are the two who have been most critical towards Optimus for his prioritizing of Earth and the humans.
* General Flagg namedrops [[Matt Trakker]] as having worked with Mayhem on his "[[M.A.S.K.|little project]]". Readers were introduced to Trakker in [[G.I. Joe Energon Universe 2025 Special story|the ''G.I. Joe'' segment]] of the ''[[Energon Universe 2025 Special]]'', wherein he alluded to being on the run and involved in a dangerous secret project and showed awareness of the Transformers.
* Ultra Magnus has been dealing with post-traumatic stress ever since his capture and torture at the hands of Shockwave, as seen in [[Transformers (2023) issue 9|issue #9]].
* Wheeljack says that they've revived everyone who was accounted for in the ship, and that any other missing Autobots are expected to have been thrown from the ship when the Ark crashed. One of those Autobots is [[Hound (G1)|Hound]], who has been keeping busy in the pages of ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]''.
* Shockwave was believed dead when Optimus Prime crushed his head with his bare hands in [[Transformers (2023) issue 12|issue #12]]. It seems he wasn't quite as dead as believed, but his body and head are still in a state of disrepair.

===Transformers references===
* This issue reveals that the "Magnus" part of Ultra Magnus's name is actually a title. While typically "Ultra Magnus" is simply the character's name, there have been instances where this is not the case. ''[[Transformers Animated (cartoon)|Transformers Animated]]'' used "[[Magnus (rank)|Magnus]]" as the highest rank within the Autobots above [[Prime (rank)|Prime]] in a subversion of the usual pattern. The [[2005 IDW continuity]] featured "[[Ultra Magnus (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Ultra Magnus]]" as a pseudonym used by a variety of Autobot lawmen after the originator of the name (for whom it was simply his given name) was killed.
* Among the deactivated Decepticons in the Ark are classic Decepticons Blitzwing, Dirge (officially completing the appearances of the [[Conehead]]s in the Energon Universe), and female [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]] Slipstream, a character who – like Bulkhead – began life in ''Transformers: Animated'' before making the jump to other iterations.
* While watching Thundercracker display his new Autobot symbols, Bulkhead jokingly wonders if Megatron is next to join them, an obvious reference to [[Megatron (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|the time Megatron ''did'' join the Autobots]].
* Optimus acknowledging that his flaw is projecting kindness onto those who have none, harkens back to his original character bio written by [[Bob Budiansky]] which lists Optimus being too compassionate as a major weakness of his.

===Real life references===
* The Hoover Dam is a real location that has appeared in Transformers fiction before, most notably in the [[2007]] ''[[Transformers (film)|Transformers]]'' film, as well as the [[Marvel Comics|Marvel]] ''[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Transformers]]'' issue "[[Aerialbots over America!]]"

===Errors===
* The page after Thundercracker shows off his Autobrand colors his eyes as blue instead of red. We're not sure if this is intentional or not since previous pages, including the page revealing him sporting the Autobot insignia, still had his eyes in red hues. However, we've seen Starscream's eyes change blue to red and back multiple times in this series, as well as Optimus' optics when he was under the influence of Megatron's arm.
* Not an out-and-out error per se... but this issue reveals that several inactive Decepticons, including at least Dirge, Slipstream, and Blitzwing, were left on the Ark. So, um...why didn't Starscream, Megatron, or Soundwave, who would have been in need of numbers on their side, bring them up at any point? And why didn't Starscream and Soundwave try to reactivate them during [[Transformers (2023) issue 5|Issue #5]]?
* Ultra Magnus's antenna are still being colored blue.

===Other notes===
* Miles says that his full name is "Miles McKane Mayhem."
* This issue's letters page includes a tribute to the late [[Ron Friedman]].
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Executive Editor Ben Abernathy.
** '''Character Spotlight:''' Brawn
** '''Oh, Deer:''' Callback to the deer scene from issue #2.
** '''Creator Spotlight:''' Ben asks Robert Kirkman what his alt-mode would be. Kirkman would love to turn into a jet or spacecraft and fly around, but would probably actually turn into a keyboard or couch. Or his bed.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Soundwave, by [[David Nakayama]]
* '''Cover B:''' Optimus and Thundercracker sit together as the sun sets, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover, by [[Jorge Corona]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover D:''' Thundercracker wears his new Autobot insignias, by [[Lorenzo De Felici]].
* '''Cover E:''' Design for Soundwave, by Dan Mora and [[Andres Juarez]].

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 27 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 27 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 27 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 27 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 27 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 27 Big Time Collectibles Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 27 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 27 The 616 Comics Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 27 The Iron Lion Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 27 TopShelfComic Cover A.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 27 TopShelfComic Cover B.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 27 TopShelfComic Cover C.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 27 TopShelfComic Cover D.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 27 Sal Amezcua Cover.jpg
</gallery>

===Advertisement===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 16|#16]] and [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 17|#17]] and ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 25|#25]].
* 3-page preview of the Quintesson War coming to ''Void Rivals'' #25!

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 5: Generation One''''' ([[June 2]], [[2026]]) ISBN 153433355X / ISBN 978-1534333550
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #25–30
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V5.jpg|'''''Volume 5: Generation One''''' – cover art by [[David Nakayama]]
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 28

2026-01-22T20:06:10Z

Diesel Prime: /* Errors */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #28
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 27
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 29
|image=Transformers 2023 28 Cover B.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[January 14]], [[2026]]
|coverdate= January 2026
|written by=[[Robert Kirkman]]
|art by=[[Dan Mora]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''Arcee ascends to the role of Magnus, just in time for Megatron to employ a deadly new tactic against the Autobots.'''

==Synopsis==
Inside the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]'', the [[Decepticon]]s attempt - to no avail - to restrain [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], who flails about in a possessed madness, screaming for [[Dezimir]], though the other Decepticons have no idea what he is talking about. Luckily for them, he comes out of his trance just as the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] return from [[Hoover Dam]] with their collected [[Energon]] cubes. Megatron is pleased to see Skywarp return to the fold, and Skywarp informs his leader that [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] is being held captive by the [[Autobot]]s. Megatron decides it's time to mount an attack on the Autobots and rescue their brother.

Aboard the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'', [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] watches over [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] and an unconscious [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]], connected to Ultra Magnus and undergoing a "vision quest" as part of her ascension to the role of [[Magnus (rank)|Magnus]]. Ultra Magnus believes that Arcee will be better Magnus than he, but Optimus admits to feeling unsure about this, as Magnus is typically a title carried for life, but alas, Ultra Magnus remains firm on his decision. Elsewhere, [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] visits Soundwave in his cell. Soundwave is disgusted by the former [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]'s decision to join the Autobots, but Thundercracker merely tells him that one day he will see the cruelty of the Decepticons for what it is before walking away.

At [[Shadow Watch]] Underground Base, [[General Flagg]] escorts [[Miles Mayhem]] out of the facility, flanked by a squad of soldiers. Before he can be taken away, however, Mayhem activates a [[Mask|hi-tech battle helmet]], which fires a corrosive acid that burns several of the guards alive. He then releases [[Switchblade (M.A.S.K.)|a high tech helicopter]] from within the facility. Telling Flagg to consider this his resignation, he frees himself from his handcuffs with the acid and boards the helicopter. After it lifts off, the vehicle begins to change, converting into a hi-speed jet and blasting off into the horizon. As Flagg realizes he backed the wrong horse, he tells his men to find [[Matt Trakker]].

Back in [[Farmingham]], [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] and [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] return to the [[Witwicky (surname)|Witwicky]] home. Carly thanks Spike for letting her stay there, and Spike tells her he’s glad to be home, though his mood immediately shifts when he spots [[Sparkplug Witwicky|his dad]]'s old recliner. Carly tries to cheer him up by reminding him that he’s going to be starting at [[University of California, Berkeley]] soon, but he tells her he isn't going; their experience with the [[Transformer]]s has gotten him to consider a new path...

Back on the ''Ark'', Arcee has finished her transformation into Arcee Magnus, complete with a new, stronger form, though she finds the new body somewhat strange. Ultra Magnus says he will hold off on relinquishing the Magnus title completely until she is fully ready; however, Optimus asks that Ultra Magnus remain as Magnus alongside Arcee, citing historical precedence of the Autobots having more than one Magnus in times of war, and believing that Ultra Magnus' experience makes him too great an asset to lose. Ultra Magnus is reluctant, but agrees to at least consider it. Arcee presents herself to the rest of the Autobots, all of whom are wowed by her upgrade. Optimus informs the Autobots of their first mission: they are going to canvass the area in search of Decepticon activity. He then offers Arcee Magnus the chance to rally the troops. She orders the Autobots to [[transformation|transform]], but before they can [[roll out]], Optimus notices that [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] is missing.

Trailbreaker is deep in the forest, admiring the beauty of [[Earth]]. Unfortunately, his moment of serenity ends with an attack from Megatron, who sneaks up and crushes his head in one hand. The Decepticon leader then tears the Autobot's body in half and rips out his [[spark]] to consume it. This, he tells the Decepticons (watching with a mix of glee and horror), is how they will deal with the Autobots: permanent death!

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee/Arcee Magnus]] (17)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (18)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (19)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (21)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (27)
* [[Bulkhead (G1)|Bulkhead]] (28)
* [[Shredhead]] (29)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (30)
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] (31)
* [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] (32)
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] (33)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (34)
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (35)
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (36)
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (37)
* [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (38)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (39)
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] (40)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (41)

|c2=
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (1)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (2)
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (3)
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (4)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (5)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (6)
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (7)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (8)
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] (9)
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] (10)
* [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]] (11)
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] (12)
* [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]] (13)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (14)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (15)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (16)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (20)

|c3=
* [[General Flagg]] (22)
* [[Miles Mayhem]] (23)
* [[Shadow Watch]] soldiers (24)
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (25)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (26)
}}

==Quotes==
"As Magnus, she will be our first line of defense. Arcee will lead the charge, sustain the most damage, protect our troops, and always ensure they are battle ready and well trained. It is a burden she will carry well." 
"I hope you are making the right decision, old friend." 
"I've rarely been this sure about anything. Arcee will be a far better Magnus than I ever was."
:—'''Ultra Magnus''' and '''Optimus Prime'''

"There will be a time, Soundwave, when you are told to do something you think is '''cruel''', or '''unnecessary'''. Or something bad will happen to someone you care about, and you will see how callous and hateful the Decepticons are. Maybe then you'll understand my actions. Or maybe you won't... but then you'll know who you truly are."
:—'''Thundercracker''' to Soundwave

"I'd trade sad memories for intact walls... most days." 
"No sad memories. Not when '''you’re''' here."
:—'''Carly''' and '''Spike'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Megatron references [[Dezimir]], the [[Quintesson Prosecutor]] who tortured him and gave him the ability to control the will of others back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 19|issue #19]]. Clearly those events have had more damaging long-term effects than we first realized.
* When Thundercracker tells Soundwave that he will see how callous and hateful the Decepticons are, Soundwave thinks about Ravage, who was damaged for most of the series because Starscream refused to help Soundwave heal him.
* This is the first time we've seen Spike's house since [[Transformers (2023) issue 2|issue #2]]. In a stunning attention to detail, the layout of the living room in the second panel of page 11 is identical to the sole shot of it from that issue.
* Carly is staying with Spike since her own home was destroyed by the fight between Laserbeak and [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] in [[Transformers (2023) issue 3|issue #3]].
* Spike's acceptance into Berkeley was mentioned back at [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|the very start of the series]].
* For the entirety of the Energon Universe, Transformers have been shown to be exceptionally durable, surviving all manner of physical damage to their bodies, with character "deaths" more being a matter of the narrative treating them as such (as with [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]]). The end of this issue confirms that the only way for a Transformer to permanently die is to destroy their spark (whether the drinking part is necessary remains to be seen).

===Transformers references===
* In a neat visual reference, the left forearm of ''[[Transformers One (film)|Transformers One]]'' [[Megatron (One)|Megatron]] can be seen during Arcee's vision.
* Arcee delivers an Autobot [[introdump|roll call]] akin to the one from the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode [[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]. However, due to [[Hasbro]]'s... let’s say "[[Transformation#Notes|particularities]]", she doesn’t say "transform and roll out", opting instead for the new catchphrase "[[transformation cog (biology)|transformation cog]]s-- activate!" (Prime starts to deliver the "let’s roll" before he is interrupted by noticing Trailbreaker's absence.)
* Megatron's grisly bisection of Trailbreaker echoes [[Megatron (Movie)|Megatron]] from the live-action films, who famously ripped [[Jazz (Movie)|Jazz]] in half. Him eating Trailbreaker's spark afterwards may be a nod to the original script for the movie, where ''Movie'' Megatron was shown to similarly consume Jazz's spark – though that scene was cut from the movie itself, it survived in [[Transformers (novel)|the film novelization]] and [[Movie Adaptation issue 4|the comic adaptation]].
** It also echoes <strike>Trailbreaker's</strike> Trailcutter's [[Births, Deaths, and Interventions|gruesome demise]] at the hands of [[Kaon (G1)|Kaon]] in the [[2005 IDW continuity|first]] [[IDW Publishing|IDW]] comic line.

===''M.A.S.K.'' references===
* This issue debuts Miles Mayhem's Viper mask and Switchblade vehicle from the original ''[[M.A.S.K. (franchise)|M.A.S.K.]]'' toyline. Viper has been newly redesigned, yet still features its classic corrosive acid power. Switchblade, meanwhile, hews fairly close to its classic design (with some minor flourishes), but has received a new name – "Bladejet". This is likely due to [[trademark]] reasons, as the recent ''M.A.S.K.'' reproduction line from [[The Loyal Subjects]] called the vehicle simply "High Tech Helicopter".

===Errors===
* On page 14, Sideswipe is miscolored as Jazz.
* Mike Spicer is still coloring Ultra Magnus’s antennas as blue, yet on the B cover he colors them correctly as white.

===Other notes===
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Executive Editor Ben Abernathy.
** '''Character Spotlight:''' Arcee
** '''A Massive Headache:''' Ben teases the return of Shockwave from last issue.
** '''Creator Spotlight:''' Ben asks... himself... what kind of alt-mode he would have. Ben likes the idea of cruising along the beach as a dune buggy like Beachcomber.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Bulkhead and Mirage, by [[David Nakayama]]
* '''Cover B:''' Ultra Magnus and Arcee as she prepares to become Magnus, by [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover, by [[Jorge Corona]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover D:''' Megatron, by [[Ejikure]].
* '''Cover E:''' Design for Thundercracker, complete with [[Insignia|Autobrand]]s, by Dan Mora and [[Andres Juarez]].

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Unknown Comics Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 John Giang Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 The 616 Comics Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 TopShelfComic Cover.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisement===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 18|#18]], ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 26|#26]], and ''Transformers'' #29.
* ''Universal Monsters: Phantom of the Opera''
* ''Super Creepshow''
* ''Ghost Pepper'' Volume 1 TPB
* ''Invincible Universe: Battle Beast'' Volume 1 TPB

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 5: Generation One''''' ([[June 2]], [[2026]]) ISBN 153433355X / ISBN 978-1534333550
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #25–30
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V5.jpg|'''''Volume 5: Generation One''''' – cover art by [[David Nakayama]]
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 28

2026-01-22T20:03:22Z

Diesel Prime: /* Errors */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #28
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 27
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 29
|image=Transformers 2023 28 Cover B.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[January 14]], [[2026]]
|coverdate= January 2026
|written by=[[Robert Kirkman]]
|art by=[[Dan Mora]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''Arcee ascends to the role of Magnus, just in time for Megatron to employ a deadly new tactic against the Autobots.'''

==Synopsis==
Inside the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]'', the [[Decepticon]]s attempt - to no avail - to restrain [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], who flails about in a possessed madness, screaming for [[Dezimir]], though the other Decepticons have no idea what he is talking about. Luckily for them, he comes out of his trance just as the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] return from [[Hoover Dam]] with their collected [[Energon]] cubes. Megatron is pleased to see Skywarp return to the fold, and Skywarp informs his leader that [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] is being held captive by the [[Autobot]]s. Megatron decides it's time to mount an attack on the Autobots and rescue their brother.

Aboard the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'', [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] watches over [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] and an unconscious [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]], connected to Ultra Magnus and undergoing a "vision quest" as part of her ascension to the role of [[Magnus (rank)|Magnus]]. Ultra Magnus believes that Arcee will be better Magnus than he, but Optimus admits to feeling unsure about this, as Magnus is typically a title carried for life, but alas, Ultra Magnus remains firm on his decision. Elsewhere, [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] visits Soundwave in his cell. Soundwave is disgusted by the former [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]'s decision to join the Autobots, but Thundercracker merely tells him that one day he will see the cruelty of the Decepticons for what it is before walking away.

At [[Shadow Watch]] Underground Base, [[General Flagg]] escorts [[Miles Mayhem]] out of the facility, flanked by a squad of soldiers. Before he can be taken away, however, Mayhem activates a [[Mask|hi-tech battle helmet]], which fires a corrosive acid that burns several of the guards alive. He then releases [[Switchblade (M.A.S.K.)|a high tech helicopter]] from within the facility. Telling Flagg to consider this his resignation, he frees himself from his handcuffs with the acid and boards the helicopter. After it lifts off, the vehicle begins to change, converting into a hi-speed jet and blasting off into the horizon. As Flagg realizes he backed the wrong horse, he tells his men to find [[Matt Trakker]].

Back in [[Farmingham]], [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] and [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] return to the [[Witwicky (surname)|Witwicky]] home. Carly thanks Spike for letting her stay there, and Spike tells her he’s glad to be home, though his mood immediately shifts when he spots [[Sparkplug Witwicky|his dad]]'s old recliner. Carly tries to cheer him up by reminding him that he’s going to be starting at [[University of California, Berkeley]] soon, but he tells her he isn't going; their experience with the [[Transformer]]s has gotten him to consider a new path...

Back on the ''Ark'', Arcee has finished her transformation into Arcee Magnus, complete with a new, stronger form, though she finds the new body somewhat strange. Ultra Magnus says he will hold off on relinquishing the Magnus title completely until she is fully ready; however, Optimus asks that Ultra Magnus remain as Magnus alongside Arcee, citing historical precedence of the Autobots having more than one Magnus in times of war, and believing that Ultra Magnus' experience makes him too great an asset to lose. Ultra Magnus is reluctant, but agrees to at least consider it. Arcee presents herself to the rest of the Autobots, all of whom are wowed by her upgrade. Optimus informs the Autobots of their first mission: they are going to canvass the area in search of Decepticon activity. He then offers Arcee Magnus the chance to rally the troops. She orders the Autobots to [[transformation|transform]], but before they can [[roll out]], Optimus notices that [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] is missing.

Trailbreaker is deep in the forest, admiring the beauty of [[Earth]]. Unfortunately, his moment of serenity ends with an attack from Megatron, who sneaks up and crushes his head in one hand. The Decepticon leader then tears the Autobot's body in half and rips out his [[spark]] to consume it. This, he tells the Decepticons (watching with a mix of glee and horror), is how they will deal with the Autobots: permanent death!

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee/Arcee Magnus]] (17)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (18)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (19)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (21)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (27)
* [[Bulkhead (G1)|Bulkhead]] (28)
* [[Shredhead]] (29)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (30)
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] (31)
* [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] (32)
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] (33)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (34)
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (35)
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (36)
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (37)
* [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (38)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (39)
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] (40)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (41)

|c2=
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (1)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (2)
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (3)
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (4)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (5)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (6)
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (7)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (8)
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] (9)
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] (10)
* [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]] (11)
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] (12)
* [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]] (13)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (14)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (15)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (16)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (20)

|c3=
* [[General Flagg]] (22)
* [[Miles Mayhem]] (23)
* [[Shadow Watch]] soldiers (24)
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (25)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (26)
}}

==Quotes==
"As Magnus, she will be our first line of defense. Arcee will lead the charge, sustain the most damage, protect our troops, and always ensure they are battle ready and well trained. It is a burden she will carry well." 
"I hope you are making the right decision, old friend." 
"I've rarely been this sure about anything. Arcee will be a far better Magnus than I ever was."
:—'''Ultra Magnus''' and '''Optimus Prime'''

"There will be a time, Soundwave, when you are told to do something you think is '''cruel''', or '''unnecessary'''. Or something bad will happen to someone you care about, and you will see how callous and hateful the Decepticons are. Maybe then you'll understand my actions. Or maybe you won't... but then you'll know who you truly are."
:—'''Thundercracker''' to Soundwave

"I'd trade sad memories for intact walls... most days." 
"No sad memories. Not when '''you’re''' here."
:—'''Carly''' and '''Spike'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Megatron references [[Dezimir]], the [[Quintesson Prosecutor]] who tortured him and gave him the ability to control the will of others back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 19|issue #19]]. Clearly those events have had more damaging long-term effects than we first realized.
* When Thundercracker tells Soundwave that he will see how callous and hateful the Decepticons are, Soundwave thinks about Ravage, who was damaged for most of the series because Starscream refused to help Soundwave heal him.
* This is the first time we've seen Spike's house since [[Transformers (2023) issue 2|issue #2]]. In a stunning attention to detail, the layout of the living room in the second panel of page 11 is identical to the sole shot of it from that issue.
* Carly is staying with Spike since her own home was destroyed by the fight between Laserbeak and [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] in [[Transformers (2023) issue 3|issue #3]].
* Spike's acceptance into Berkeley was mentioned back at [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|the very start of the series]].
* For the entirety of the Energon Universe, Transformers have been shown to be exceptionally durable, surviving all manner of physical damage to their bodies, with character "deaths" more being a matter of the narrative treating them as such (as with [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]]). The end of this issue confirms that the only way for a Transformer to permanently die is to destroy their spark (whether the drinking part is necessary remains to be seen).

===Transformers references===
* In a neat visual reference, the left forearm of ''[[Transformers One (film)|Transformers One]]'' [[Megatron (One)|Megatron]] can be seen during Arcee's vision.
* Arcee delivers an Autobot [[introdump|roll call]] akin to the one from the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode [[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]. However, due to [[Hasbro]]'s... let’s say "[[Transformation#Notes|particularities]]", she doesn’t say "transform and roll out", opting instead for the new catchphrase "[[transformation cog (biology)|transformation cog]]s-- activate!" (Prime starts to deliver the "let’s roll" before he is interrupted by noticing Trailbreaker's absence.)
* Megatron's grisly bisection of Trailbreaker echoes [[Megatron (Movie)|Megatron]] from the live-action films, who famously ripped [[Jazz (Movie)|Jazz]] in half. Him eating Trailbreaker's spark afterwards may be a nod to the original script for the movie, where ''Movie'' Megatron was shown to similarly consume Jazz's spark – though that scene was cut from the movie itself, it survived in [[Transformers (novel)|the film novelization]] and [[Movie Adaptation issue 4|the comic adaptation]].
** It also echoes <strike>Trailbreaker's</strike> Trailcutter's [[Births, Deaths, and Interventions|gruesome demise]] at the hands of [[Kaon (G1)|Kaon]] in the [[2005 IDW continuity|first]] [[IDW Publishing|IDW]] comic line.

===''M.A.S.K.'' references===
* This issue debuts Miles Mayhem's Viper mask and Switchblade vehicle from the original ''[[M.A.S.K. (franchise)|M.A.S.K.]]'' toyline. Viper has been newly redesigned, yet still features its classic corrosive acid power. Switchblade, meanwhile, hews fairly close to its classic design (with some minor flourishes), but has received a new name – "Bladejet". This is likely due to [[trademark]] reasons, as the recent ''M.A.S.K.'' reproduction line from [[The Loyal Subjects]] called the vehicle simply "High Tech Helicopter".

===Errors===
* On page 14, Sideswipe is miscolored as Jazz.
* Ultra Magnus’s antennas are still colored blue, yet on the B cover they are colored correctly as white.

===Other notes===
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Executive Editor Ben Abernathy.
** '''Character Spotlight:''' Arcee
** '''A Massive Headache:''' Ben teases the return of Shockwave from last issue.
** '''Creator Spotlight:''' Ben asks... himself... what kind of alt-mode he would have. Ben likes the idea of cruising along the beach as a dune buggy like Beachcomber.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Bulkhead and Mirage, by [[David Nakayama]]
* '''Cover B:''' Ultra Magnus and Arcee as she prepares to become Magnus, by [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover, by [[Jorge Corona]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover D:''' Megatron, by [[Ejikure]].
* '''Cover E:''' Design for Thundercracker, complete with [[Insignia|Autobrand]]s, by Dan Mora and [[Andres Juarez]].

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Unknown Comics Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 John Giang Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 The 616 Comics Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 TopShelfComic Cover.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisement===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 18|#18]], ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 26|#26]], and ''Transformers'' #29.
* ''Universal Monsters: Phantom of the Opera''
* ''Super Creepshow''
* ''Ghost Pepper'' Volume 1 TPB
* ''Invincible Universe: Battle Beast'' Volume 1 TPB

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 5: Generation One''''' ([[June 2]], [[2026]]) ISBN 153433355X / ISBN 978-1534333550
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #25–30
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V5.jpg|'''''Volume 5: Generation One''''' – cover art by [[David Nakayama]]
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 28

2026-01-21T04:09:25Z

Diesel Prime: /* Errors */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #28
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 27
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 29
|image=Transformers 2023 28 Cover B.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[January 14]], [[2026]]
|coverdate= January 2026
|written by=[[Robert Kirkman]]
|art by=[[Dan Mora]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''Arcee ascends to the role of Magnus, just in time for Megatron to employ a deadly new tactic against the Autobots.'''

==Synopsis==
Inside the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]'', the [[Decepticon]]s attempt - to no avail - to restrain [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], who flails about in a possessed madness, screaming for [[Dezimir]], though the other Decepticons have no idea what he is talking about. Luckily for them, he comes out of his trance just as the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] return from [[Hoover Dam]] with their collected [[Energon]] cubes. Megatron is pleased to see Skywarp return to the fold, and Skywarp informs his leader that [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] is being held captive by the [[Autobot]]s. Megatron decides it's time to mount an attack on the Autobots and rescue their brother.

Aboard the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'', [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] watches over [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] and an unconscious [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]], connected to Ultra Magnus and undergoing a "vision quest" as part of her ascension to the role of [[Magnus (rank)|Magnus]]. Ultra Magnus believes that Arcee will be better Magnus than he, but Optimus admits to feeling unsure about this, as Magnus is typically a title carried for life, but alas, Ultra Magnus remains firm on his decision. Elsewhere, [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] visits Soundwave in his cell. Soundwave is disgusted by the former [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]'s decision to join the Autobots, but Thundercracker merely tells him that one day he will see the cruelty of the Decepticons for what it is before walking away.

At [[Shadow Watch]] Underground Base, [[General Flagg]] escorts [[Miles Mayhem]] out of the facility, flanked by a squad of soldiers. Before he can be taken away, however, Mayhem activates a [[Mask|hi-tech battle helmet]], which fires a corrosive acid that burns several of the guards alive. He then releases [[Switchblade (M.A.S.K.)|a high tech helicopter]] from within the facility. Telling Flagg to consider this his resignation, he frees himself from his handcuffs with the acid and boards the helicopter. After it lifts off, the vehicle begins to change, converting into a hi-speed jet and blasting off into the horizon. As Flagg realizes he backed the wrong horse, he tells his men to find [[Matt Trakker]].

Back in [[Farmingham]], [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] and [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] return to the [[Witwicky (surname)|Witwicky]] home. Carly thanks Spike for letting her stay there, and Spike tells her he’s glad to be home, though his mood immediately shifts when he spots [[Sparkplug Witwicky|his dad]]'s old recliner. Carly tries to cheer him up by reminding him that he’s going to be starting at [[University of California, Berkeley]] soon, but he tells her he isn't going; their experience with the [[Transformer]]s has gotten him to consider a new path...

Back on the ''Ark'', Arcee has finished her transformation into Arcee Magnus, complete with a new, stronger form, though she finds the new body somewhat strange. Ultra Magnus says he will hold off on relinquishing the Magnus title completely until she is fully ready; however, Optimus asks that Ultra Magnus remain as Magnus alongside Arcee, citing historical precedence of the Autobots having more than one Magnus in times of war, and believing that Ultra Magnus' experience makes him too great an asset to lose. Ultra Magnus is reluctant, but agrees to at least consider it. Arcee presents herself to the rest of the Autobots, all of whom are wowed by her upgrade. Optimus informs the Autobots of their first mission: they are going to canvass the area in search of Decepticon activity. He then offers Arcee Magnus the chance to rally the troops. She orders the Autobots to [[transformation|transform]], but before they can [[roll out]], Optimus notices that [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] is missing.

Trailbreaker is deep in the forest, admiring the beauty of [[Earth]]. Unfortunately, his moment of serenity ends with an attack from Megatron, who sneaks up and crushes his head in one hand. The Decepticon leader then tears the Autobot's body in half and rips out his [[spark]] to consume it. This, he tells the Decepticons (watching with a mix of glee and horror), is how they will deal with the Autobots: permanent death!

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee/Arcee Magnus]] (17)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (18)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (19)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (21)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (27)
* [[Bulkhead (G1)|Bulkhead]] (28)
* [[Shredhead]] (29)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (30)
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] (31)
* [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] (32)
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] (33)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (34)
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (35)
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (36)
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (37)
* [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (38)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (39)
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] (40)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (41)

|c2=
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (1)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (2)
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (3)
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (4)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (5)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (6)
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (7)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (8)
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] (9)
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] (10)
* [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]] (11)
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] (12)
* [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]] (13)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (14)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (15)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (16)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (20)

|c3=
* [[General Flagg]] (22)
* [[Miles Mayhem]] (23)
* [[Shadow Watch]] soldiers (24)
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (25)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (26)
}}

==Quotes==
"As Magnus, she will be our first line of defense. Arcee will lead the charge, sustain the most damage, protect our troops, and always ensure they are battle ready and well trained. It is a burden she will carry well." 
"I hope you are making the right decision, old friend." 
"I've rarely been this sure about anything. Arcee will be a far better Magnus than I ever was."
:—'''Ultra Magnus''' and '''Optimus Prime'''

"There will be a time, Soundwave, when you are told to do something you think is '''cruel''', or '''unnecessary'''. Or something bad will happen to someone you care about, and you will see how callous and hateful the Decepticons are. Maybe then you'll understand my actions. Or maybe you won't... but then you'll know who you truly are."
:—'''Thundercracker''' to Soundwave

"I'd trade sad memories for intact walls... most days." 
"No sad memories. Not when '''you’re''' here."
:—'''Carly''' and '''Spike'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Megatron references [[Dezimir]], the [[Quintesson Prosecutor]] who tortured him and gave him the ability to control the will of others back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 19|issue #19]]. Clearly those events have had more damaging long-term effects than we first realized.
* When Thundercracker tells Soundwave that he will see how callous and hateful the Decepticons are, Soundwave thinks about Ravage, who was damaged for most of the series because Starscream refused to help Soundwave heal him.
* This is the first time we've seen Spike's house since [[Transformers (2023) issue 2|issue #2]]. In a stunning attention to detail, the layout of the living room in the second panel of page 11 is identical to the sole shot of it from that issue.
* Carly is staying with Spike since her own home was destroyed by the fight between Laserbeak and [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] in [[Transformers (2023) issue 3|issue #3]].
* Spike's acceptance into Berkeley was mentioned back at [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|the very start of the series]].
* For the entirety of the Energon Universe, Transformers have been shown to be exceptionally durable, surviving all manner of physical damage to their bodies, with character "deaths" more being a matter of the narrative treating them as such (as with [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]]). The end of this issue confirms that the only way for a Transformer to permanently die is to destroy their spark (whether the drinking part is necessary remains to be seen).

===Transformers references===
* In a neat visual reference, the left forearm of ''[[Transformers One (film)|Transformers One]]'' [[Megatron (One)|Megatron]] can be seen during Arcee's vision.
* Arcee delivers an Autobot [[introdump|roll call]] akin to the one from the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode [[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]. However, due to [[Hasbro]]'s... let’s say "[[Transformation#Notes|particularities]]", she doesn’t say "transform and roll out", opting instead for the new catchphrase "[[transformation cog (biology)|transformation cog]]s-- activate!" (Prime starts to deliver the "let’s roll" before he is interrupted by noticing Trailbreaker's absence.)
* Megatron's grisly bisection of Trailbreaker echoes [[Megatron (Movie)|Megatron]] from the live-action films, who famously ripped [[Jazz (Movie)|Jazz]] in half. Him eating Trailbreaker's spark afterwards may be a nod to the original script for the movie, where ''Movie'' Megatron was shown to similarly consume Jazz's spark – though that scene was cut from the movie itself, it survived in [[Transformers (novel)|the film novelization]] and [[Movie Adaptation issue 4|the comic adaptation]].
** It also echoes <strike>Trailbreaker's</strike> Trailcutter's [[Births, Deaths, and Interventions|gruesome demise]] at the hands of [[Kaon (G1)|Kaon]] in the [[2005 IDW continuity|first]] [[IDW Publishing|IDW]] comic line.

===''M.A.S.K.'' references===
* This issue debuts Miles Mayhem's Viper mask and Switchblade vehicle from the original ''[[M.A.S.K. (franchise)|M.A.S.K.]]'' toyline. Viper has been newly redesigned, yet still features its classic corrosive acid power. Switchblade, meanwhile, hews fairly close to its classic design (with some minor flourishes), but has received a new name – "Bladejet". This is likely due to [[trademark]] reasons, as the recent ''M.A.S.K.'' reproduction line from [[The Loyal Subjects]] called the vehicle simply "High Tech Helicopter".

===Errors===
* On page 14, Sideswipe is miscolored as Jazz.
* Ultra Magnus’s antennas are once again blue.

===Other notes===
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Executive Editor Ben Abernathy.
** '''Character Spotlight:''' Arcee
** '''A Massive Headache:''' Ben teases the return of Shockwave from last issue.
** '''Creator Spotlight:''' Ben asks... himself... what kind of alt-mode he would have. Ben likes the idea of cruising along the beach as a dune buggy like Beachcomber.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Bulkhead and Mirage, by [[David Nakayama]]
* '''Cover B:''' Ultra Magnus and Arcee as she prepares to become Magnus, by [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover, by [[Jorge Corona]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover D:''' Megatron, by [[Ejikure]].
* '''Cover E:''' Design for Thundercracker, complete with [[Insignia|Autobrand]]s, by Dan Mora and [[Andres Juarez]].

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 Unknown Comics Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 John Giang Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 The 616 Comics Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 28 TopShelfComic Cover.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisement===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 18|#18]], ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 26|#26]], and ''Transformers'' #29.
* ''Universal Monsters: Phantom of the Opera''
* ''Super Creepshow''
* ''Ghost Pepper'' Volume 1 TPB
* ''Invincible Universe: Battle Beast'' Volume 1 TPB

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 5: Generation One''''' ([[June 2]], [[2026]]) ISBN 153433355X / ISBN 978-1534333550
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #25–30
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V5.jpg|'''''Volume 5: Generation One''''' – cover art by [[David Nakayama]]
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

G.I. Joe (2024) issue 15

2025-12-08T16:44:33Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' #15
|prev=G.I. Joe (2024) issue 14
|next=G.I. Joe (2024) issue 16
|image=G.I. Joe 2024 15 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[December 3]], [[2025]]
|coverdate= December 2025
|written by=[[Joshua Williamson]]
|art by=[[Tom Reilly]]
|colors by=[[Jordie Bellaire]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editors=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|production design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''Duke gains new insight into his enemy as the Dreadnoks ally themselves with Road Pig. Meanwhile, Destro's consolidation of Cobra leads to shocking revelation for Colonel Hawk.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Duke (G.I. Joe)|Duke]] tries fend off [[Road Pig (G.I. Joe)|Road Pig]] but is unable to penetrate his girth, allowing Road Pig to easily knock him out. He then drags Duke through his house to the attic, where [[Cobra Commander]] is already chained to a meathook ceiling. After chaining Duke up as well, Road Pig notices [[Ripper (G.I. Joe)|Ripper]] and [[Buzzer (G.I. Joe)|Buzzer]] outside. As the pair of [[Dreadnok]]s approach the town, they are met by Road Pig's pet bulldog [[Rawkus]] before Road Pig swoops in for the attack.

Meanwhile, [[Hawk (G.I. Joe)|Colonel Hawk]] detours from his trip to [[CIA|Langley]] after receiving a message from [[Astoria Carlton-Ritz]] claiming to have information about [[Cobra]]. When he arrives on her boat, she leads him into a meeting room where [[Destro]] and [[Mercer]] are waiting. Destro offers to provide Cobra weaponry to [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]] to help aid their fight against “[[Transformer|the robots]]”. Hawk immediately pulls a gun on Destro, not wanting to do business with him. However, Destro then reveals that he has information about his team and the robots that Hawk will want to know...

As Duke tries to free himself from his restraints, Cobra Commander asks him why he saved his life. Duke simply tells him that he has questions for him. Cobra Commander warns that he might not like the answers, prompting Duke to ask his first question: is the Commander human? The Commander confesses that he is, but he doesn't want to be, believing that humanity's mortality makes them weak, and confirming for Duke that he did not build the Transformers. Duke then asks why the Dreadnoks are after him, prompting the Commander to reveal that he stole the [[Energon]] from them. However, their conversation is interrupted by the return of Road Pig, with Buzzer and Ripper in tow, having become an honorary Dreadnok thanks to Rawkus' approval and their shared love of grape soda. Buzzer taunts the Commander, but soon regrets it when the Commander lunges forward and takes a bite out of his neck. Ripper tells Road Pig to take them outside where [[Zarana]], [[Zandar]], and the rest of the Dreadnoks have finally caught up with them.

At [[Pit (G.I. Joe)|the Pit]], [[Clutch (G.I. Joe)|Clutch]] knows that something is wrong if Duke hasn't checked in by now. [[Cover Girl]] tells him that even if they pulled [[Stalker (G.I. Joe)|Stalker]], [[Baroness]], and [[Risk (G.I. Joe)|Risk]] from [[Chicago]], they wouldn't get to [[Texas]] until the morning. Clutch says to do so anyways; the two of them are going now, and he knows someone else who can help...

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|h1=[[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]]|c1=
* [[Duke (G.I. Joe)|Duke]] (1)
* [[Hawk (G.I. Joe)|Hawk]] (7)
* [[Clutch (G.I. Joe)|Clutch]] (17)
* [[Cover Girl]] (18)
* [[Stalker (G.I. Joe)|Stalker]] (19, on screen)
* [[Baroness]] (20, on screen)
* [[Risk (G.I. Joe)|Risk]] (21, on screen)

|h2=[[Cobra]]|c2=
* [[Cobra Commander]] (3)
* [[Astoria Carlton-Ritz]] (8)
* [[Destro]] (9)
* [[Mercer]] (10)
* Cobra Troopers (11)
* Cobra Officer (12)

|h3=[[Dreadnok]]s|c3=
* [[Road Pig (G.I. Joe)|Road Pig]] (2)
* [[Ripper (G.I. Joe)|Ripper]] (4)
* [[Buzzer (G.I. Joe)|Buzzer]] (5)
* [[Rawkus]] (6)
* [[Zarana]] (13)
* [[Zandar]] (14)
* Unnamed Dreadnoks (15)
* [[Torch (G.I. Joe)|Torch]] (16)

|h4=Others|c4=
}}

==Quotes==

'''Hawk:''' "'''Astoria, are you crazy?!''' Destro is the enemy!" 
'''Destro:''' "You told me this would be a friendly exchange, Astoria." 
'''Astoria:''' "I do not. But this is not how my story ends."

"So, you didn't make those robots?" 
"No. But imagine if you had their abilities. What you could do?" 
"I don't need to be a dang robot." 
"You're a fool then."
:—'''Duke''' and '''Cobra Commander'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Cobra Commander's mutated/mutilated face is the result of being caught in a spore explosion back in ''[[Cobra Commander (comic)|Cobra Commander]]'' [[Cobra Commander issue 1|#1]].
* It appears Mercer is going to spill the beans to Hawk about Clutch's friendship with [[Hound (G1)|Hound]], which he learned about from his own encounter with the pair back in [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 11|issue #11]].
* Cobra Commander's hatred for humanity was first elucidated back in [[Cobra Commander issue 2|''Cobra Commander'' #2]]. He previously expressed his desire to evolve beyond human when sharing his experiments with Destro in ''G.I. Joe'' #11.
* Cobra Commander's theft of Energon from the Dreadnoks and their decimation at the hands of [[Nemesis Enforcer]] happened in [[Cobra Commander issue 4|Cobra Commander #4]].
* Who could Clutch's potential ally be? Hound? [[Scarlett]]? [[Snake-Eyes]]??? It's probably [[Matt Trakker]], given their established friendship from the ''[[Energon Universe 2025 Special]]'' [[G.I. Joe Energon Universe 2025 Special story|story]].
* It was hinted in one of the fan letter responses that Cobra Commander and Starscream's voices might canonical sound similar. When asked if Megatron thought the Commander sounded like Starscream, the response was that this had been considered and that we would have to "stay tuned!" to find out if it was true.

===G.I. Joe references===
* Buzzer mentions a Dreadnok named [https://www.yojoe.com/action/86/thrasher.shtml Thrasher], the original driver figure included with the [[Thunder Machine]] from the 1986 assortment of ''[[G.I. Joe (franchise)|G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero]]'' toys. The dialogue implies that he's dead from blood loss after trying to high five Buzzer's chainsaw hand.
* Road Pig's dog Rawkus was introduced as an accessory for his ''G.I. Joe Classified Series'' figure.

===Other notes===
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Executive Editor Ben Abernathy.
** '''Character Spotlight:''' Road Pig
** '''Have Another Drink:''' The Dreadnoks' love for grape soda has been a consistent element for over 40 years!
** '''Creator Spotlight:''' Ben asks Tom Reilly who his favorite Dreadnok is. Reilly says Ripper is the most fun to draw.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Ripper and Buzzer stand over a beaten down Duke, all reflected in Cobra Commander’s broken mask, by Tom Reilly.
* '''Cover B:''' Buzzer saws through Duke and Cobra Commander’s alliance, by [[Eric Canete]].
* '''Cover C:''' Zarana, by [[Ben Oliver]].
* '''Cover D (1:25 Copy Incentive):''' Torch on an explosion background, by [[Jesús Merino]] and [[Adriano Lucas]].
* '''Cover E (1:50 Copy Incentive):''' Road Pig and Rawkus, by [[Jonboy Meyers]].

<gallery>
File:G.I. Joe 2024 15 Cover A.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 15 Cover B.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 15 Cover C.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 15 Cover D.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 15 Cover E.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 15 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 15 The 616 Comics Cover B.jpg|
</gallery>

===Ads===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[Transformers (2023) issue 27|#27]], ''G.I. Joe'' #16, and ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 25|#25]].
* 3-page preview of the Quintesson War from ''Void Rivals'' #25

===Reprints===
* '''''G.I. Joe Volume 3: Dreadnok War''''' ([[March 25]], [[2026]]) ISBN 1534333452 / ISBN 978-1534333451
** Collects ''G.I. Joe'' issues #13–18.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:G.I. Joe 2024 V3.jpg|'''''Volume 3: Dreadnok War''''' – cover art by Tom Reilly
</gallery>

[[Category:G.I. Joe (2024) issues]]

G.I. Joe (2024) issue 15

2025-12-08T16:43:46Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' #15
|prev=G.I. Joe (2024) issue 14
|next=G.I. Joe (2024) issue 16
|image=G.I. Joe 2024 15 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[December 3]], [[2025]]
|coverdate= December 2025
|written by=[[Joshua Williamson]]
|art by=[[Tom Reilly]]
|colors by=[[Jordie Bellaire]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editors=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|production design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''Duke gains new insight into his enemy as the Dreadnoks ally themselves with Road Pig. Meanwhile, Destro's consolidation of Cobra leads to shocking revelation for Colonel Hawk.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Duke (G.I. Joe)|Duke]] tries fend off [[Road Pig (G.I. Joe)|Road Pig]] but is unable to penetrate his girth, allowing Road Pig to easily knock him out. He then drags Duke through his house to the attic, where [[Cobra Commander]] is already chained to a meathook ceiling. After chaining Duke up as well, Road Pig notices [[Ripper (G.I. Joe)|Ripper]] and [[Buzzer (G.I. Joe)|Buzzer]] outside. As the pair of [[Dreadnok]]s approach the town, they are met by Road Pig's pet bulldog [[Rawkus]] before Road Pig swoops in for the attack.

Meanwhile, [[Hawk (G.I. Joe)|Colonel Hawk]] detours from his trip to [[CIA|Langley]] after receiving a message from [[Astoria Carlton-Ritz]] claiming to have information about [[Cobra]]. When he arrives on her boat, she leads him into a meeting room where [[Destro]] and [[Mercer]] are waiting. Destro offers to provide Cobra weaponry to [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]] to help aid their fight against “[[Transformer|the robots]]”. Hawk immediately pulls a gun on Destro, not wanting to do business with him. However, Destro then reveals that he has information about his team and the robots that Hawk will want to know...

As Duke tries to free himself from his restraints, Cobra Commander asks him why he saved his life. Duke simply tells him that he has questions for him. Cobra Commander warns that he might not like the answers, prompting Duke to ask his first question: is the Commander human? The Commander confesses that he is, but he doesn't want to be, believing that humanity's mortality makes them weak, and confirming for Duke that he did not build the Transformers. Duke then asks why the Dreadnoks are after him, prompting the Commander to reveal that he stole the [[Energon]] from them. However, their conversation is interrupted by the return of Road Pig, with Buzzer and Ripper in tow, having become an honorary Dreadnok thanks to Rawkus' approval and their shared love of grape soda. Buzzer taunts the Commander, but soon regrets it when the Commander lunges forward and takes a bite out of his neck. Ripper tells Road Pig to take them outside where [[Zarana]], [[Zandar]], and the rest of the Dreadnoks have finally caught up with them.

At [[Pit (G.I. Joe)|the Pit]], [[Clutch (G.I. Joe)|Clutch]] knows that something is wrong if Duke hasn't checked in by now. [[Cover Girl]] tells him that even if they pulled [[Stalker (G.I. Joe)|Stalker]], [[Baroness]], and [[Risk (G.I. Joe)|Risk]] from [[Chicago]], they wouldn't get to [[Texas]] until the morning. Clutch says to do so anyways; the two of them are going now, and he knows someone else who can help...

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|h1=[[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]]|c1=
* [[Duke (G.I. Joe)|Duke]] (1)
* [[Hawk (G.I. Joe)|Hawk]] (7)
* [[Clutch (G.I. Joe)|Clutch]] (17)
* [[Cover Girl]] (18)
* [[Stalker (G.I. Joe)|Stalker]] (19, on screen)
* [[Baroness]] (20, on screen)
* [[Risk (G.I. Joe)|Risk]] (21, on screen)

|h2=[[Cobra]]|c2=
* [[Cobra Commander]] (3)
* [[Astoria Carlton-Ritz]] (8)
* [[Destro]] (9)
* [[Mercer]] (10)
* Cobra Troopers (11)
* Cobra Officer (12)

|h3=[[Dreadnok]]s|c3=
* [[Road Pig (G.I. Joe)|Road Pig]] (2)
* [[Ripper (G.I. Joe)|Ripper]] (4)
* [[Buzzer (G.I. Joe)|Buzzer]] (5)
* [[Rawkus]] (6)
* [[Zarana]] (13)
* [[Zandar]] (14)
* Unnamed Dreadnoks (15)
* [[Torch (G.I. Joe)|Torch]] (16)

|h4=Others|c4=
}}

==Quotes==

'''Hawk:''' "'''Astoria, are you crazy?!''' Destro is the enemy!" 
'''Destro:''' "You told me this would be a friendly exchange, Astoria." 
'''Astoria:''' "I do not. But this is not how my story ends."

"So, you didn't make those robots?" 
"No. But imagine if you had their abilities. What you could do?" 
"I don't need to be a dang robot." 
"You're a fool then."
:—'''Duke''' and '''Cobra Commander'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Cobra Commander's mutated/mutilated face is the result of being caught in a spore explosion back in ''[[Cobra Commander (comic)|Cobra Commander]]'' [[Cobra Commander issue 1|#1]].
* It appears Mercer is going to spill the beans to Hawk about Clutch's friendship with [[Hound (G1)|Hound]], which he learned about from his own encounter with the pair back in [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 11|issue #11]].
* Cobra Commander's hatred for humanity was first elucidated back in [[Cobra Commander issue 2|''Cobra Commander'' #2]]. He previously expressed his desire to evolve beyond human when sharing his experiments with Destro in ''G.I. Joe'' #11.
* Cobra Commander's theft of Energon from the Dreadnoks and their decimation at the hands of [[Nemesis Enforcer]] happened in [[Cobra Commander issue 4|Cobra Commander #4]].
* Who could Clutch's potential ally be? Hound? [[Scarlett]]? [[Snake-Eyes]]??? It's probably [[Matt Trakker]], given their established friendship from the ''[[Energon Universe 2025 Special]]'' [[G.I. Joe Energon Universe 2025 Special story|story]].
* It was hinted in one of the fan letter responses that Cobra Commander and Starscream's voices might canonical sound similar. When asked if Megatron thought the Commander sounded like Starscream, the response was that this had been considers and that we would have to "stay tuned!" to find out if it was true.

===G.I. Joe references===
* Buzzer mentions a Dreadnok named [https://www.yojoe.com/action/86/thrasher.shtml Thrasher], the original driver figure included with the [[Thunder Machine]] from the 1986 assortment of ''[[G.I. Joe (franchise)|G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero]]'' toys. The dialogue implies that he's dead from blood loss after trying to high five Buzzer's chainsaw hand.
* Road Pig's dog Rawkus was introduced as an accessory for his ''G.I. Joe Classified Series'' figure.

===Other notes===
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Executive Editor Ben Abernathy.
** '''Character Spotlight:''' Road Pig
** '''Have Another Drink:''' The Dreadnoks' love for grape soda has been a consistent element for over 40 years!
** '''Creator Spotlight:''' Ben asks Tom Reilly who his favorite Dreadnok is. Reilly says Ripper is the most fun to draw.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Ripper and Buzzer stand over a beaten down Duke, all reflected in Cobra Commander’s broken mask, by Tom Reilly.
* '''Cover B:''' Buzzer saws through Duke and Cobra Commander’s alliance, by [[Eric Canete]].
* '''Cover C:''' Zarana, by [[Ben Oliver]].
* '''Cover D (1:25 Copy Incentive):''' Torch on an explosion background, by [[Jesús Merino]] and [[Adriano Lucas]].
* '''Cover E (1:50 Copy Incentive):''' Road Pig and Rawkus, by [[Jonboy Meyers]].

<gallery>
File:G.I. Joe 2024 15 Cover A.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 15 Cover B.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 15 Cover C.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 15 Cover D.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 15 Cover E.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 15 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 15 The 616 Comics Cover B.jpg|
</gallery>

===Ads===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[Transformers (2023) issue 27|#27]], ''G.I. Joe'' #16, and ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 25|#25]].
* 3-page preview of the Quintesson War from ''Void Rivals'' #25

===Reprints===
* '''''G.I. Joe Volume 3: Dreadnok War''''' ([[March 25]], [[2026]]) ISBN 1534333452 / ISBN 978-1534333451
** Collects ''G.I. Joe'' issues #13–18.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:G.I. Joe 2024 V3.jpg|'''''Volume 3: Dreadnok War''''' – cover art by Tom Reilly
</gallery>

[[Category:G.I. Joe (2024) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 24

2025-09-14T13:18:11Z

Diesel Prime:

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #24
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 23
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 25
|image=Transformers 2023 24 Cover A.jpg
|caption=''Fearless and undefined, this is what it sounds like'' 
''Truth after all this time, our voices all combined''
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[September 10]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=September 2025
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Jorge Corona]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''One shall stand. One shall fall.'''

==Synopsis==
[[File:TF2023 no. 24 - Optimus Defeats Megatron.jpg|thumb|150px|left|''When darkness meets the light'' '''''This is what it sounds like!''''']]
[[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] clash in a furious exchange of unrelenting blows. Optimus affirms that even though he cares for the innocent, that won't stop him from giving Megatron the beating he deserves. However, Megatron quickly turns that around on him and begins targeting the civilians in the area, taunting Prime that he's never been able to make the hard choices that were necessary to save [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. He whales on Prime all the while, rendering him nearly unconscious. [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] congratulates the [[Decepticon]] leader on his victory, but Megatron is not yet finished. Megatron transforms into gun mode and orders Starscream to drop Optimus onto a set of antennae atop a skyscraper, impaling Prime and keeping him stationary as Megatron prepares his final lesson. Starscream then collects [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]], [[Carly (G1)|Carly]], and [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] and brings them before Optimus. Megatron presents his mortal enemy with an ultimatum: choose which he will execute, his human friends or the pure-hearted [[Autobot]]. Optimus refuses to play this sick game, but Megatron says that if he doesn't choose, he will simply kill them both! Beachcomber begs Optimus to choose him, but still Prime rejects the idea. Under the influence of Megatron, Starscream aims at Spike and Carly, ready to pull Megatron's trigger...

But he hesitates, as [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] glides silently overhead. Optimus and Starscream both look up in awe at the ancient Transformer, who looks down and waves at Starscream — [[Transformers (2023) issue 13|just as he did millennia ago]]. Starscream, speechless, waves back. As Omega flies off, Megatron orders Starscream to obey his will. However, seeing Omega has reminded the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]] of his true name: Ulchtar.

A beam of energy fires into the sky from Megatron's [[fusion cannon]], blasting off Ulchtar's face as the Decepticon leader returns to robot mode. As Ulchtar's body falls to the ground below, Megatron turns his fusion cannon on Carly and Spike, who are saved by the timely intervention of [[Shredhead]], who tells Carly — noticeably surprised to see her van is now a [[Transformer]] — that [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] says hello, before slicing through the antenna that pins Optimus in place. Megatron begs Optimus to stop, but the Autobot leader has lost any patience with his enemy, pulling the remaining antenna from his torso and using it to knock Megatron off the skyscraper. His body is caught by [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]], and he orders the Decepticons to retreat.

Still reeling from the battle, Optimus holds Spike in his hands, relieved to see that the boy is okay. As Optimus, Spike, Carly, and Beachcomber collect themselves in the aftermath, Carly notices that the light in the [[Matrix of Leadership]] has returned, with Prime realizing that he has been cured of Megatron's infection. Carly remarks on how small the light is... but as Optimus looks over the dark and destroyed remnants of [[Chicago]], he tells her that it is small, but still mighty.

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (2)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (8)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (9)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (10)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (11)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (12)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (16)
* [[Shredhead]] (18)

|c2=
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (1)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (3)
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (4)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (5)
* [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] (6)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (7)

|c3=
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (13)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (14)
* ''[[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparky Witwicky]]'' (19)
* ''Nurse'' (20)

|h4=Others|c4=
* [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] (17)
}}

==Quotes==
"You think I am weak. But just because I care for the innocent... doesn't mean I can't beat you into submission!"
:—'''Optimus Prime''' to Megatron

"If I beat you, [[Human|their]] whole planet will be worse off won't it?!! But no! You can't make the hard choices! You can't lead this way! '''YOU CAN'T SAVE CYBERTRON THIS WAY!!!!'''"
:—'''Megatron''' chastises Optimus Prime's concern for humans

"Who are you?" 
"A new friend. Sent by [[Cliffjumper (G1)|an old friend]]."
:—'''Optimus Prime''' meets '''Shredhead'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Brawl is now dead, as Bruticus’s left leg has been completely destroyed.
* Omega Supreme was first seen in the flashback story in [[Transformers (2023) issue 13|issue #13]], the same story that revealed Starscream's origins as Ulchtar. How are they here on [[Earth]]? We'll just have to wait and find out. But it might have something to do with the signal being sent out from the shard of Cybertron on earth, mentioned by Megatron in issue 20.
* Shredhead was sent to Earth by Cliffjumper in [[Transformers (2023) issue 22|issue #22]] to protect Carly.
* The flashback of Sparky holding little baby Spike for the first time has been glimpsed before in the visions Optimus had after Sparky entered the Matrix.
* The final line of the issue calls back to what Prime said to Sparky in [[Transformers (2023) issue 4|issue #4]].

===Transformers references===
* Optimus drops a [[Furmanism]] after he is impaled by Megatron ("I cannot, I will not!").
* Optimus pulls a Sears Tower spire out of his left side, evoking a similar action from his climatic battle with Megatron in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.
* Following up on the previous issue ending with a ''The Transformers: The Movie'' quote, Optimus delivers his iconic “I thought you were made of sterner stuff” to a pleading Megatron.

===Errors===
* On page 8, where Optimus is impaled, the three small rectangles on his thigh are colored yellow instead of white.
* On page 14, where Starscream stars his name, the triangle shape on his shoulder thing is painted like the background as opposed to red.
The three rectangle on primes right thigh are colored yellow
* Ultra Magnus’s antennas are once again colored blue in this issue.

===Other notes===
* It is left vague whether or not Starscream used Megatron to shoot himself, or if Megatron willingly shot Starscream.
* Megatron refers to Beachcomber as “pure in heart and form” an interesting comment by the decepticon leader. Whether he truly believes this about beachcomber, believes this about him but is unaware of his recent vow of pacifism, or is simply referring to how Prime views him is unclear.
*Prime’s trailer appears out of thin air when he transformers (as it should always be).
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Brand VP [[Arune Singh]].
** '''Character Spotlight:''' Beachcomber.
** '''You've Got [[The Touch]]:''' Spotlight on the F cover homaging ''The Transformers: The Movie'' (see below).
** '''Creator Q&A:''' Arune asks [[Sean Mackiewicz]] what his favorite memory from Daniel Warren Johnson's run was. Sean shares that he visited Johnson's home before [[San Diego Comic-Con]] 2023 and was blown away seeing the physical copies of the pages Johnson drew for the first issue of the series.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Optimus stands over a defeated Megatron, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' Megatron stands over a beaten Optimus Prime, by Jorge Corona and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover by [[David Nakayama]].
* '''Cover D:''' Optimus Prime versus Megatron, by [[Jeff Spokes]].
* '''Cover E:''' Optimus in truck mode drives over a chalk drawing of Megatron, by [[Simon Parr]].
* '''Cover F:''' Wraparound cover of Optimus transforming and leaping into the air to fire his [[ion blaster]] at Megatron in an homage to his famous intro in ''The Transformers: The Movie'', by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 24 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 24 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 24 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 24 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 24 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 24 Cover F.jpg|
</gallery>

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' ([[November 25]], [[2025]]) ISBN 1534332588 / ISBN 978-1534332584 
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #19–24 and the [[Transformers Energon Universe 2025 Special story|''Transformers'' story]] from ''[[Energon Universe 2025 Special]]''.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V4.jpg|'''''Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 24

2025-09-14T13:08:40Z

Diesel Prime: /* Other notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #24
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 23
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 25
|image=Transformers 2023 24 Cover A.jpg
|caption=''Fearless and undefined, this is what it sounds like'' 
''Truth after all this time, our voices all combined''
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[September 10]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=September 2025
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Jorge Corona]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''One shall stand. One shall fall.'''

==Synopsis==
[[File:TF2023 no. 24 - Optimus Defeats Megatron.jpg|thumb|150px|left|''When darkness meets the light'' '''''This is what it sounds like!''''']]
[[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] clash in a furious exchange of unrelenting blows. Optimus affirms that even though he cares for the innocent, that won't stop him from giving Megatron the beating he deserves. However, Megatron quickly turns that around on him and begins targeting the civilians in the area, taunting Prime that he's never been able to make the hard choices that were necessary to save [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. He whales on Prime all the while, rendering him nearly unconscious. [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] congratulates the [[Decepticon]] leader on his victory, but Megatron is not yet finished. Megatron transforms into gun mode and orders Starscream to drop Optimus onto a set of antennae atop a skyscraper, impaling Prime and keeping him stationary as Megatron prepares his final lesson. Starscream then collects [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]], [[Carly (G1)|Carly]], and [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] and brings them before Optimus. Megatron presents his mortal enemy with an ultimatum: choose which he will execute, his human friends or the pure-hearted [[Autobot]]. Optimus refuses to play this sick game, but Megatron says that if he doesn't choose, he will simply kill them both! Beachcomber begs Optimus to choose him, but still Prime rejects the idea. Under the influence of Megatron, Starscream aims at Spike and Carly, ready to pull Megatron's trigger...

But he hesitates, as [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] glides silently overhead. Optimus and Starscream both look up in awe at the ancient Transformer, who looks down and waves at Starscream — [[Transformers (2023) issue 13|just as he did millennia ago]]. Starscream, speechless, waves back. As Omega flies off, Megatron orders Starscream to obey his will. However, seeing Omega has reminded the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]] of his true name: Ulchtar.

A beam of energy fires into the sky from Megatron's [[fusion cannon]], blasting off Ulchtar's face as the Decepticon leader returns to robot mode. As Ulchtar's body falls to the ground below, Megatron turns his fusion cannon on Carly and Spike, who are saved by the timely intervention of [[Shredhead]], who tells Carly — noticeably surprised to see her van is now a [[Transformer]] — that [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] says hello, before slicing through the antenna that pins Optimus in place. Megatron begs Optimus to stop, but the Autobot leader has lost any patience with his enemy, pulling the remaining antenna from his torso and using it to knock Megatron off the skyscraper. His body is caught by [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]], and he orders the Decepticons to retreat.

Still reeling from the battle, Optimus holds Spike in his hands, relieved to see that the boy is okay. As Optimus, Spike, Carly, and Beachcomber collect themselves in the aftermath, Carly notices that the light in the [[Matrix of Leadership]] has returned, with Prime realizing that he has been cured of Megatron's infection. Carly remarks on how small the light is... but as Optimus looks over the dark and destroyed remnants of [[Chicago]], he tells her that it is small, but still mighty.

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (2)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (8)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (9)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (10)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (11)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (12)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (16)
* [[Shredhead]] (18)

|c2=
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (1)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (3)
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (4)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (5)
* [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] (6)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (7)

|c3=
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (13)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (14)
* ''[[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparky Witwicky]]'' (19)
* ''Nurse'' (20)

|h4=Others|c4=
* [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] (17)
}}

==Quotes==
"You think I am weak. But just because I care for the innocent... doesn't mean I can't beat you into submission!"
:—'''Optimus Prime''' to Megatron

"If I beat you, [[Human|their]] whole planet will be worse off won't it?!! But no! You can't make the hard choices! You can't lead this way! '''YOU CAN'T SAVE CYBERTRON THIS WAY!!!!'''"
:—'''Megatron''' chastises Optimus Prime's concern for humans

"Who are you?" 
"A new friend. Sent by [[Cliffjumper (G1)|an old friend]]."
:—'''Optimus Prime''' meets '''Shredhead'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Brawl is now dead, as Bruticus’s left leg has been completely destroyed.
* Omega Supreme was first seen in the flashback story in [[Transformers (2023) issue 13|issue #13]], the same story that revealed Starscream's origins as Ulchtar. How are they here on [[Earth]]? We'll just have to wait and find out. But it might have something to do with the signal being sent out from the shard of Cybertron on earth, mentioned by Megatron in issue 20.
* Shredhead was sent to Earth by Cliffjumper in [[Transformers (2023) issue 22|issue #22]] to protect Carly.
* The flashback of Sparky holding little baby Spike for the first time has been glimpsed before in the visions Optimus had after Sparky entered the Matrix.
* The final line of the issue calls back to what Prime said to Sparky in [[Transformers (2023) issue 4|issue #4]].

===Transformers references===
* Optimus drops a [[Furmanism]] after he is impaled by Megatron ("I cannot, I will not!").
* Optimus pulls a Sears Tower spire out of his left side, evoking a similar action from his climatic battle with Megatron in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.
* Following up on the previous issue ending with a ''The Transformers: The Movie'' quote, Optimus delivers his iconic “I thought you were made of sterner stuff” to a pleading Megatron.

===Other notes===
* It is left vague whether or not Starscream used Megatron to shoot himself, or if Megatron willingly shot Starscream.
* Megatron refers to Beachcomber as “pure in heart and form” an interesting comment by the decepticon leader. Whether he truly believes this about beachcomber, believes this about him but is unaware of his recent vow of pacifism, or is simply referring to how Prime views him is unclear.
*Prime’s trailer appears out of thin air when he transformers (as it should always be).
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Brand VP [[Arune Singh]].
** '''Character Spotlight:''' Beachcomber.
** '''You've Got [[The Touch]]:''' Spotlight on the F cover homaging ''The Transformers: The Movie'' (see below).
** '''Creator Q&A:''' Arune asks [[Sean Mackiewicz]] what his favorite memory from Daniel Warren Johnson's run was. Sean shares that he visited Johnson's home before [[San Diego Comic-Con]] 2023 and was blown away seeing the physical copies of the pages Johnson drew for the first issue of the series.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Optimus stands over a defeated Megatron, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' Megatron stands over a beaten Optimus Prime, by Jorge Corona and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover by [[David Nakayama]].
* '''Cover D:''' Optimus Prime versus Megatron, by [[Jeff Spokes]].
* '''Cover E:''' Optimus in truck mode drives over a chalk drawing of Megatron, by [[Simon Parr]].
* '''Cover F:''' Wraparound cover of Optimus transforming and leaping into the air to fire his [[ion blaster]] at Megatron in an homage to his famous intro in ''The Transformers: The Movie'', by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 24 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 24 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 24 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 24 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 24 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 24 Cover F.jpg|
</gallery>

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' ([[November 25]], [[2025]]) ISBN 1534332588 / ISBN 978-1534332584 
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #19–24 and the [[Transformers Energon Universe 2025 Special story|''Transformers'' story]] from ''[[Energon Universe 2025 Special]]''.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V4.jpg|'''''Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 24

2025-09-14T13:04:26Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #24
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 23
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 25
|image=Transformers 2023 24 Cover A.jpg
|caption=''Fearless and undefined, this is what it sounds like'' 
''Truth after all this time, our voices all combined''
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[September 10]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=September 2025
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Jorge Corona]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''One shall stand. One shall fall.'''

==Synopsis==
[[File:TF2023 no. 24 - Optimus Defeats Megatron.jpg|thumb|150px|left|''When darkness meets the light'' '''''This is what it sounds like!''''']]
[[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] clash in a furious exchange of unrelenting blows. Optimus affirms that even though he cares for the innocent, that won't stop him from giving Megatron the beating he deserves. However, Megatron quickly turns that around on him and begins targeting the civilians in the area, taunting Prime that he's never been able to make the hard choices that were necessary to save [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. He whales on Prime all the while, rendering him nearly unconscious. [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] congratulates the [[Decepticon]] leader on his victory, but Megatron is not yet finished. Megatron transforms into gun mode and orders Starscream to drop Optimus onto a set of antennae atop a skyscraper, impaling Prime and keeping him stationary as Megatron prepares his final lesson. Starscream then collects [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]], [[Carly (G1)|Carly]], and [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] and brings them before Optimus. Megatron presents his mortal enemy with an ultimatum: choose which he will execute, his human friends or the pure-hearted [[Autobot]]. Optimus refuses to play this sick game, but Megatron says that if he doesn't choose, he will simply kill them both! Beachcomber begs Optimus to choose him, but still Prime rejects the idea. Under the influence of Megatron, Starscream aims at Spike and Carly, ready to pull Megatron's trigger...

But he hesitates, as [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] glides silently overhead. Optimus and Starscream both look up in awe at the ancient Transformer, who looks down and waves at Starscream — [[Transformers (2023) issue 13|just as he did millennia ago]]. Starscream, speechless, waves back. As Omega flies off, Megatron orders Starscream to obey his will. However, seeing Omega has reminded the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]] of his true name: Ulchtar.

A beam of energy fires into the sky from Megatron's [[fusion cannon]], blasting off Ulchtar's face as the Decepticon leader returns to robot mode. As Ulchtar's body falls to the ground below, Megatron turns his fusion cannon on Carly and Spike, who are saved by the timely intervention of [[Shredhead]], who tells Carly — noticeably surprised to see her van is now a [[Transformer]] — that [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] says hello, before slicing through the antenna that pins Optimus in place. Megatron begs Optimus to stop, but the Autobot leader has lost any patience with his enemy, pulling the remaining antenna from his torso and using it to knock Megatron off the skyscraper. His body is caught by [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]], and he orders the Decepticons to retreat.

Still reeling from the battle, Optimus holds Spike in his hands, relieved to see that the boy is okay. As Optimus, Spike, Carly, and Beachcomber collect themselves in the aftermath, Carly notices that the light in the [[Matrix of Leadership]] has returned, with Prime realizing that he has been cured of Megatron's infection. Carly remarks on how small the light is... but as Optimus looks over the dark and destroyed remnants of [[Chicago]], he tells her that it is small, but still mighty.

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (2)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (8)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (9)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (10)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (11)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (12)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (16)
* [[Shredhead]] (18)

|c2=
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (1)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (3)
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (4)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (5)
* [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] (6)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (7)

|c3=
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (13)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (14)
* ''[[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparky Witwicky]]'' (19)
* ''Nurse'' (20)

|h4=Others|c4=
* [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] (17)
}}

==Quotes==
"You think I am weak. But just because I care for the innocent... doesn't mean I can't beat you into submission!"
:—'''Optimus Prime''' to Megatron

"If I beat you, [[Human|their]] whole planet will be worse off won't it?!! But no! You can't make the hard choices! You can't lead this way! '''YOU CAN'T SAVE CYBERTRON THIS WAY!!!!'''"
:—'''Megatron''' chastises Optimus Prime's concern for humans

"Who are you?" 
"A new friend. Sent by [[Cliffjumper (G1)|an old friend]]."
:—'''Optimus Prime''' meets '''Shredhead'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Brawl is now dead, as Bruticus’s left leg has been completely destroyed.
* Omega Supreme was first seen in the flashback story in [[Transformers (2023) issue 13|issue #13]], the same story that revealed Starscream's origins as Ulchtar. How are they here on [[Earth]]? We'll just have to wait and find out. But it might have something to do with the signal being sent out from the shard of Cybertron on earth, mentioned by Megatron in issue 20.
* Shredhead was sent to Earth by Cliffjumper in [[Transformers (2023) issue 22|issue #22]] to protect Carly.
* The flashback of Sparky holding little baby Spike for the first time has been glimpsed before in the visions Optimus had after Sparky entered the Matrix.
* The final line of the issue calls back to what Prime said to Sparky in [[Transformers (2023) issue 4|issue #4]].

===Transformers references===
* Optimus drops a [[Furmanism]] after he is impaled by Megatron ("I cannot, I will not!").
* Optimus pulls a Sears Tower spire out of his left side, evoking a similar action from his climatic battle with Megatron in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.
* Following up on the previous issue ending with a ''The Transformers: The Movie'' quote, Optimus delivers his iconic “I thought you were made of sterner stuff” to a pleading Megatron.

===Other notes===
* It is left vague whether or not Starscream used Megatron to shoot himself, or if Megatron willingly shot Starscream.
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Brand VP [[Arune Singh]].
** '''Character Spotlight:''' Beachcomber.
** '''You've Got [[The Touch]]:''' Spotlight on the F cover homaging ''The Transformers: The Movie'' (see below).
** '''Creator Q&A:''' Arune asks [[Sean Mackiewicz]] what his favorite memory from Daniel Warren Johnson's run was. Sean shares that he visited Johnson's home before [[San Diego Comic-Con]] 2023 and was blown away seeing the physical copies of the pages Johnson drew for the first issue of the series.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Optimus stands over a defeated Megatron, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' Megatron stands over a beaten Optimus Prime, by Jorge Corona and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover by [[David Nakayama]].
* '''Cover D:''' Optimus Prime versus Megatron, by [[Jeff Spokes]].
* '''Cover E:''' Optimus in truck mode drives over a chalk drawing of Megatron, by [[Simon Parr]].
* '''Cover F:''' Wraparound cover of Optimus transforming and leaping into the air to fire his [[ion blaster]] at Megatron in an homage to his famous intro in ''The Transformers: The Movie'', by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 24 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 24 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 24 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 24 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 24 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 24 Cover F.jpg|
</gallery>

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' ([[November 25]], [[2025]]) ISBN 1534332588 / ISBN 978-1534332584 
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #19–24 and the [[Transformers Energon Universe 2025 Special story|''Transformers'' story]] from ''[[Energon Universe 2025 Special]]''.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V4.jpg|'''''Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Megatron (G1)/Generations toys

2025-09-07T23:58:59Z

Diesel Prime: /* Studio Series */

{{suite}}
[[File:Kingdom Golden Disk Megatron returns to pits.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]

Much like [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]], the [[Decepticon]] leader also continues to receive more toys than the average ''[[Transformers brand|Transformers]]'' character. While '''[[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]''' doesn't have quite as many toys as his nemesis, he is one of ''at least'' [[Bumblebee (G1)|four]] [[Starscream (G1)|main]] characters that are guaranteed to get a new toy just about every year.

For the sake of finding an easy and definitive split from the main toy article, we have opted to make this page strictly for the various ''[[Transformers: Generations (toyline)|Generations]]''-branded toylines, as this appears to be the brand [[Hasbro]] will likely continue adding Generation 1 characters to for the foreseeable future.

==GDO==
{{anchor|GenerationsVoyager}}
[[File:GenerationsGDOtoy-Megatron.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|[[Bludgeon (RID 2001)|What goes around, comes around.]]]]
*'''Megatron''' (Voyager Class, [[2012]])
**''Accessories:'' {{w|Katana}}, {{w|:Wakizashi|tanto}}
{{toydesigner|[[Andrew Frankel]] (Hasbro)}}
:''[[Transformers: Generations (toyline)|Generations]]'' Megatron is an Asian market and Toys"R"Us-exclusive redeco/retool of ''[[Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (toyline)|Revenge of the Fallen: N.E.S.T. Global Alliance]]'' Voyager Class [[Bludgeon (ROTF)#Voyager|Bludgeon]], sporting a new, smiling head. Megatron transforms from a Japanese {{w|Type 90 Kyū-maru|Type 90}} tank into a samurai-esque robot mode. He features a flexible plastic sword which is made out of a portion of the barrel of the tank's main gun, as well as a smaller dagger. The dagger can be stored in a sheath which is revealed from inside the tank turret, and both blades can be slotted in holes provided on the robot mode's left hip guard. The larger sword has a peghole at the bottom of the hilt; though it is specifically designed to allow the dagger's handle to fit in the base to form a double-bladed weapon, it can also fit any other accessory that uses [[5 mm post]]s. The post used to combine the swords remains unobstructed in vehicle mode, meaning you can attach the dagger to the end of Megatron's main tank cannon if you're feeling silly. He also has [[Mech Alive]] [[gimmick]]s in his thighs and turret: sculpted cylinders in his thighs rotate whenever his lower legs are rotated, and pulling his turret open makes a sculpted white "disc" at the center rotate while a scabbard for the tantō hinges over to the side and props itself up for use.

:The vehicle mode is one of the very few Transformer tank toys with rubber components to its treads. Portions of the tread links can unlock, allowing them to hang from the robot mode, while the wheels of the treads are integrated separately into the robot mode form itself. The treads still do not function realistically; small plastic wheels on the underside of the treads help the tank mode roll, as is standard with nearly all Transformer tank toys. On the plus side, the tank turret can be rotated a full three-hundred sixty degrees, as can the purple machine gun that sits atop the turret.

:Unlike the other uses of this mold, Megatron comes [[Packaging|packaged]] in robot mode holding his swords, with additional plastic and paper ties in the tray imperfectly holding his swords in position. Because they were packaged this way since they were shipped out of the factory, most Megatrons come with the swords being badly bent and warped in the box. Fortunately, the swords' blades can be mostly straightened by leaving them sheathed in their hidden scabbards. Straightening their ''hilts'' is a different matter, though.

:As a redeco of the ''Revenge of the Fallen'' Bludgeon mold, it is highly likely that Megatron is cursed with the same design fault as his brethren - the rubber treads break down over the course of years, causing them to corrode spots of plastic and leave melty gashes behind.

:This version of the mold was also used to make ''[[Transformers Cloud|Cloud]]'' [[Megatron (Cloud)#Toys|Megatron]], while the original version was redecoed into ''[[Transformers (2010 toyline)|Hunt for the Decepticons]]'' [[Banzaitron (TF 2010)#Toys|Banzaitron]], and differently retooled to make ''[[Transformers Timelines (toyline)|Timelines]]'' [[Overlord (G1)#Timelines|Gigatron]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/2012/Decepticon/GDOMegatron/megatron.htm More information on ''Generations'' Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{ROTFBludgeonMold}}

==''Thrilling 30''==
{{anchor|GenerationsLegends}}
[[File:Generationstoy-T30-LegendsMegatronChopShop.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Watch yer wallet, Megs.]]
*'''Megatron & Chop Shop''' (Legends Class, [[2013]])
**''Series / Number'': '''02 / #004'''
{{toydesigner|[[Joe Kyde]] (Hasbro)}}

:Part of the fourth wave of 2012-onwards ''Generations'' Legends Class toys, ''[[Thrilling 30]]'' Megatron is roughly the same size as a ''[[Cyberverse (toyline)|Cyberverse]]'' Commander Class toy. He transforms from a generic tank with rotating turret into a robot based on his [[Alex Milne]] pre-war design as seen in "[[Chaos Theory Part 1]]" from [[IDW Publishing|IDW]]'s 2009-2011 ''[[The Transformers (IDW)|The Transformers]]'' comic series, and features [[5 mm post|5 mm-compatible]] ports for his hands and left forearm/turret roof.

:He comes with [[Chop Shop (G1)#Generations|Chop Shop]], who can transform into a stag beetle, a robot, a weapon with a 5 mm handle, and a mine plow that attaches to the front of Megatron's tank mode. He features gearing that opens his pinchers when his legs are moved.

:This mold also served as the model for the non-toy ''[[Beast Wars: Uprising]]'' incarnation of [[Megatron (BW)#Beast Wars: Uprising|Megatron]] and was retooled into ''Generations [[Combiner Wars (toyline)|Combiner Wars]]'' Legends Class [[Warpath (G1) #Combiner Wars|Warpath]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/2013/Decepticon/GenLegMegatron/megatron.htm More information on ''Generations'' Legends Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|T30Deluxe}}{{anchor|Deluxe}}
[[File:Generations IDW megatron.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|And the fandom collectively soiled itself.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Deluxe Class, 2013)
**''Series / Number'': '''02 / #003'''
**''Accessories'': 2 wingtips (combine to form Fusion Cannon)
{{toydesigner|[[Joe Kyde]] (Hasbro)|[[Don Figueroa]] (concept artist, uncredited)}}

:Part of the fifth wave of 2012-onwards ''Generations'' Deluxe Class toys, ''Thrilling 30'' Megatron is based on [[Don Figueroa]]'s stealth bomber design from the IDW Publishing [[Heart Like a Wheel|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] ongoing series (which resembles a Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit). In robot mode, his wingtips detach to combine and transform into his [[Fusion cannon#Deluxe|fusion cannon]] (although it's actually designed after the [[rail gun]] this body was equipped with in IDW's comics, but of course Hasbro couldn't call it ''that'' on a toy's packaging). The cannon can peg into 5mm ports on his hands and forearms. This design was actually taken from an official pitch without Figueroa's permission and with no compensation to the artist, a fact he was rather sore about.<ref>[http://www.seibertron.com/energonpub/don-figueroa-designed-idw-s-stealth-bomber-megatron-but-wasn-t-compensated--t96022s0.php "So I read that this was being made into a toy? wow, and I thought only 3rd party companies take stuff without giving any notice, acknowledgement or compensation... FYI: hasbro nor idw solicited me to do this design, I did it on my own."]</ref>

:In the American release Megatron comes packed in with a copy of IDW's ''[[Spotlight: Megatron]]'', sporting a 'Hasbro Exclusive Cover' cropped from the [[Clayton Crain]] [[:File:Spotlight Megatron cvrRI.jpg|retailer incentive cover]]. In European and Canadian markets the figure was released without the ''Spotlight''.

:He was redecoed into [[Megatron (G1)/toys#Nike|Calvin Johnson Megatron]] and retooled into ''Generations'' [[Dreadwing (G2)#Generations|Dreadwing]], ''[[Transformers Timelines (toyline)|Timelines]]'' [[Krok (G1)#Timelines|Krok]], and ''The Last Knight'' [[Megatron (Movie)/toys#TLKDeluxe|Megatron]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/2013/Decepticon/GenMegatron/megatron.htm More information on ''Thrilling 30'' Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|SDCC2013}}{{anchor|SDCCMetroplex}}
*'''Metroplex''' (Titan Class, 2013)
**'''01 OF 30'''
:An [[exclusive]] version of Titan Class [[Metroplex (G1)#SDCC2013|Metroplex]] was made available at [[San Diego Comic-Con]] 2013. He comes with 12 [[Slug figure|small, non-transforming figurines]] of [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#SDCC2013|Orion Pax]], Megatron, [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys#SDCC2013|Bumblebee]], [[Thundercracker (G1)/toys#Thrilling 30|Thundercracker]], [[Trailbreaker (G1)/toys#SDCC2013|Trailcutter]], and [[Hoist (G1)/toys#Thrilling 30|Hoist]], all in both modes. The figurines are based on their ''Thrilling 30'' Deluxe Class toys, and similarly to [[Decoy]]s, the Autobot figurines are cast in red plastic, and the Decepticons in purple.

{{-}}{{anchor|ACGHK2013}}{{anchor|HKACGCONMetroplex}}
[[File:Generationstoy-T30-Metroplex-Megatron-HKACGCON.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|I... can't... move...]]
*'''Metroplex''' (Titan Class, 2013)
**'''05 OF 30'''
:Another exclusive version of Titan Class [[Metroplex (G1)#ACGHK2013|Metroplex]] was made available at [[Animation-Comic-Game Hong Kong]] 2013. This Metroplex also has the 12 figurines of [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#ACGHK2013|Orion Pax]], Megatron, [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys#ACGHK2013|Bumblebee]], [[Thundercracker (G1)/toys#ACGHK2013|Thundercracker]], [[Trailbreaker (G1)/toys#ACGHK2013|Trailcutter]], and [[Hoist (G1)/toys#ACGHK2013|Hoist]], but casts the Autobot figurines in gold plastic, and the Decepticons in silver.
{{--}}

==''Generations'' (Japan)==
{{anchor|TG25}}{{anchor|VSOrionPax}}
[[File:TF-Generation-JP-TG25-Megatronus.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
*'''Orion Pax VS Megatronus''' ([[October 26]], [[2013]])
**''ID number'': '''TG-25'''
**''Accessories'': 2 wingtips (combine to form cannon)
:Released in the Japanese ''[[Transformers: Generations (Japan)|Generations]]'' lineup, Megatronus is a redeco of ''Thrilling 30'' Deluxe Class Megatron in a darker shade of black, replacing the previously purple parts with more black and rendering the translucent plastic cannon a shade of red. Megatronus features extensive paint details, including purple lining inside the grooves on his head, shoulders, and knees, silver paint on his legs and engines and red eyes. He was only available in a two-pack with [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#TG25|Orion Pax]].

:This toy is meant to depict Megatron as he was before the war broke out, hence the name, which originated as a pre-war name for [[Megatron (WFC)|Aligned continuity Megatron]].

{{-}}{{anchor|TG28}}{{anchor|MegatronStarscream2pack}}
[[File:TTGenerationsTG28MegatronChopShop.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|BURRITOOOS!!!!]]
*'''Megatron & Starscream''' ([[December 28]], 2013)
**''ID number:'' '''TG28'''
:The Japanese release of Legends Class Megatron is cast in his traditional gray, black, and red color scheme and features extensive metallic silver paint. He and [[Chop Shop (G1)#TG28|Chop Shop]] were only available in a multi-pack with [[Starscream (G1)/toys#TG28|Starscream]] and [[Waspinator (BW)/toys#TG28|Waspinator]].
{{--}}

==''Combiner Wars''==
{{anchor|Leader}}
[[File:LeaderMegatron2015.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.95|"What? No, of course I don't have an Autobot insignia! [[...And the Damage Done: Dark Cybertron Finale|Why would you think that?"]]]]
*'''Megatron''' (Leader Class, [[2015]])
**''Accessories'': Two guns (combine to form rifle), missile
{{toydesigner|[[John Warden]] (Hasbro)}}

:Part of the first wave of 2015 ''[[Combiner Wars (toyline)|Combiner Wars]]'' Leader Class toys, Megatron transforms from a robot heavily inspired by his Generation 1 animation model into a tank featuring working treads. He includes a sticker sheet featuring two each of Decepticon and Autobot [[insignia]] (the latter in reference to IDW's ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]''), plus stickers intended to replicate those on the original Megatron toy's chest and fusion cannon. Megatron also comes packaged with a collector's card featuring art from the initial release of the ''[[Transformers Legends (mobile game)|Transformers Legends]]'' mobile game. His box-back bio bears a superficial similarity to our wiki's article on [[Megatron (WFC)|another Megatron]]. He features a spark chamber hatch which is sculpted in likeness to the one seen in "[[Master Blaster]]". In a feature that goes undocumented in Megatron's instructions, his two combining guns can store underneath the rear of his alternate mode. Although the website description & the package billed the transformation as "15 steps", the toy actually has ''10'' steps. In keeping with that simplicity, his articulation is more limited than one might expect of a toy this size, with his restrictive knee articulation and lack of ankle joints making it tricky for him to stand in dynamic poses.

:In robot mode, Megatron's fusion cannon is on a pinned swivel, allowing it to be flipped in either direction, and appears to have been deliberately shaped to evoke the fusion cannon's traditional look no matter which way it faces. With the missile-firing tip backwards, the swivel piece allows the cannon to fold further out to the side, giving enough clearance for the arm to bend up to 90 degrees. In this configuration, the visible swivel piece matches the hexagonal detailing on the traditional cannon design, and a grooved dial sculpted into the cannon is slightly angled such that it perfectly matches the vertical position of the adjustment dial on the original scope/cannon. Of course, in that configuration Megatron can't shoot anyone with his missile, so where's the fun in that, you silly nerd?

:Select aspects of this design, such as the leg-mounted treads, the general transformation sequence and the tank alt-mode, were used to represent G1 Megatron in ''[[Transformers: Devastation]]''. The toy meanwhile was retooled into [[Megatron (Armada)/toys#Generations|''Armada'' Megatron]], which was released at the same time. This mold’s tank mode bears almost no specific resemblance to that Megatron’s original ''[[Transformers: Armada (toyline)|Armada]]'' toy, but in a concession to that character’s legacy, both versions of this mold feature ''Armada''-style [[Mini-Con]] connection ports; a rarity in any year of the ''Generations'' toyline.

::*[http://www.tfu.info/2015/Decepticon/CWMegatron/megatron.htm More information on ''Combiner Wars'' Megatron at TFU.info]

{{-}}{{anchor|SingaporeTRULeader}}
*'''Megatron''' (Lucky Draw Leader, [[2016]])
**''Accessories'': Two guns (combine to form rifle), missile
:Released as a contest prize for Toys R' Us Singapore, this ''Combiner Wars'' Leader Class Megatron is a redeco of the Leader Class toy above, featuring chrome (if by chrome, it means ''metallic'') silver and red paint on his paintable silver and red plastic parts (which includes neutering the light-up gimmick). The figure can be obtained by spending $600 worth of Transformers products only with their Star Card. The contest ran in March 1st till 31st.

{{-}}{{anchor|TFSS}}{{anchor|DoublePretender}}
[[File:TFSS-5.0-Double-Pretender-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|"[[Jason Marnocha|Fifty years I was alone... And when I'm finally saved from that loneliness, all I find is horror... In this form, I am powerless; doomed to witness these atrocities. I need a body...I WILL have a body!]]"]]
*'''Double Pretender Megatron''' (TFSS 5.0, 2017)
**''Accessories'': Pretender Shell, Sword for Pretender Shell, Rifle for Pretender Shell, [[Spacewarp#Generations|Spacewarp]] Mini-Con, Joint piece for Spacewarp/Rifle
:Released as a part of the [[Transformers Figure Subscription Service#2017|Figure Subscription Service 5.0]], Megatron is a redeco of his [[#Thrilling 30|Legends Class toy]], with his coloration based on his canceled ''Generation 2'' [[Megatron (G1)/toys#CombatHero|"arctic-camo" Combat Hero Megatron toy]]. He also comes with [[Spacewarp#Generations|Spacewarp]] (a redeco of [[Blast Master#Generations|''Thrilling 30'' Payload]]) and his Pretender shell, which is redecoed from [[Grand Maximus#Toys|Grand Maximus]]'s. Double Pretender Megatron also comes with a joint piece for Spacewarp to let her fit in the shell along with Megatron. This joint piece is sculpted to resemble the large chromed laser cannon that the original G1 Megatron toy came with. His Pretender shell weapons are black repaints of ''[[Titans Return (toyline)|Titans Return]]'' [[Sentinel Prime (G1)#Generations|Sentinel Prime]]'s rifle and Voyager Class [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#TRVoyager|Optimus Prime]]'s [[Laser Rod (weapon)#Generations|sword]].

:Megatron and Spacewarp were released alongside ''[[Transformers Timelines (toyline)|Timelines]]'' [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#TFSS|Double Pretender Optimus Prime]] and [[Hi-Q#Timelines|Hi-Q]].

:There are two suggested ways to make Megatron and Spacewarp fit into the shell, though some fans may have their own methods:
::1. Fiddle the Megatron figure into a different position, and insert the joint piece on his chest to allow Spacewarp to attach on it.<ref>{{citesocial|quote= How it all fits: https://t.co/pFFmXwkzpl|link=https://twitter.com/JesseWittenrich/status/857749521190801409|name=Jesse Wittenrich|site=Twitter|year=2017|month=04|day=28|(defunct=)}}</ref>
::2. If the joint piece doesn't work due to its tolerance, rearrange Megatron in a slightly different position, and peg Spacewarp into Megatron's arm.<ref>{{citesocial|quote= If that doesn't work for you, you can skip the accessory and peg Spacewarp to Megatron's arm. https://t.co/aogfRbvhfD|link=https://twitter.com/JesseWittenrich/status/857749905867251712|name=Jesse Wittenrich|site=Twitter|year=2017|month=04|day=28|(defunct=)}}</ref>
{{--}}

==''Cyber Series''==
[[File:Generations-Cyber-Battalion-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|He may have rocket launchers in his feet, but that doesn't mean he has mistletoe.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Cyber Battalion, 2015)
**''Accessories:'' Fusion cannon

:Part of the first wave of ''[[Transformers: Generations (toyline)#PrimeWarsTrilogyAsian|Generations: Cyber Series]]'' Cyber Battalion figures, Megatron is a Voyager-sized figure and transforms into a futuristic tank with a [[transformation|transformation scheme]] that borrows much of its engineering from the [[#Universe (2008)|''Universe'' G2 Legends Class Megatron]] from 2008 though does have some unique steps. His large fusion cannon can be held in his fist or mounted on his arm as any classic representation of Megatron would.

:The ''Cyber Series'' as a whole was initially pretty hard to come by. This figure along with the others was available in limited quantities from online retailer BigBadToyStore.com, though other than that they haven't hit mass retail anywhere besides Asia and Latin America. The line was later sold in greater quantities through [[Walgreens]] stores in parts of the United States.

{{-}}{{anchor|HeroesAndVillains}}
[[File:TF-Heroes-and-Villains-Optimus-Prime-Megatron-2-pack.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
*'''Optimus Prime and Megatron''' (2-pack, 2021)

:In 2021, the ''Cyber Series'' [[Optimus_Prime_(G1)/Generations_toys#Cyber_Series|Optimus Prime]] and Megatron figure were reissued as a 2-pack exclusive to Amazon.com.
{{--}}

==''Titans Return''==
[[File:TF-Generations-Titans-Return-Voyager-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Blitzwing who? I'm just a Megatron who happens to turn into a tank ''and'' a jet. All the cool [[Megatron (disambiguation)|Megatron]]s are doing it!]]
*'''Doomshot & Megatron''' (Voyager Class, [[2016]])
**''Accessories'': Fusion Cannon, Rifle, Doomshot Titan Master
{{toydesigner|[[John Warden]] (Hasbro)}}

:''[[Titans Return (toyline)|Titans Return]]'' Megatron transforms from robot to tank to plane and back. Megatron comes with [[Doomshot#Toys|Doomshot]], a [[Titan Master]] who becomes his head. The G1 toy-accurate 'scrollwork' details on his chest and all Decepticon insignias (on his robot mode chest, jet nosecone, and tank tread cowling) are chrome-backed, factory-applied, low-quality stickers which are notoriously prone to peeling off at the slightest disturbance. As their chrome-backed nature clashes heavily with Megatron's otherwise unpainted torso, replacing them is recommended. His wing stickers are similarly metallic, but appear to adhere better and clash less with the figure's overall aesthetic.

:The fusion cannon is shown in stock renders to be solid black, while the final one is light grey plastic dipped in black paint with the posts left bare. His dark-grey plastic is nowhere near as dark as the stock renders shows, though it is still darker than the light-grey plastic.

:Like all Voyager Class ''Titans Return'' figures, he has a pair of pop-up parts to fill in the area around his head; in this case, a pair of missile racks. While it initially looks like his chest does not contain a pivoting assembly for better range of movement on Megatron's neck, there is in fact one hidden under the grey parts that form his robot mode collar that allow the missile racks and the Titan Master port to turn in either direction.<ref name="neck">[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/titans-return-voyager-megatron-and-doomshot.1092333/page-18#post-14975031 Detailed look on TFW2005.com]</ref> Due to the nature of his transformation it is possible to transform Megatron into tank mode without removing his head, though this leaves it completely exposed at the back of the tank.

:His fusion cannon can plug into the short barrel of the tank turret or the rifle/Titan Master vehicle weapon. In an undocumented additional feature, the rifle can be inserted into the front end of the fusion cannon. The fusion cannon can be mounted on his forearm or held by any figure with 5mm hands. It also has a peg hole that an accessory such as his rifle can plug into, with extra square peg holes specifically to hold the rifle in place. The tank cannon on his turret, while held in ''very'' hard by a pair of ridges and a 5mm post, can also be removed; it can be pegged in by its 5mm post barrel onto a peghole in Megatron's shoulder to recreate G1 Megatron's classic shoulder barrel.

:The instructions for robot-to-tank transformation suggest that you move his robot mode chestplate downwards into the collapsed jet position. It appears to have a clearance issue, with the chest protruding too far; leaving it in robot mode position will ensure there are no clearance issues. However, the chest ''can'' be made to fit better by putting it into position before transforming the treads, preventing the tread panels from getting in the way. Also in some copies of the toy, Megatron's left and right leg panels will randomly pop and stick out. This is especially prominent in tank and jet mode.

:This mold was retooled into [[Blitzwing (G1)/toys#Titans Return|Blitzwing]], and redecoed into ''[[Transformers Legends (franchise)|Legends]]'' [[Megatron (G1)/toys#Legends|G2 Megatron]] and ''[[Street Fighter II × Transformers]]'' [[Megatron (G1)/toys#Street Fighter II × Transformers|Megatron]] <nowiki>[</nowiki>[[M. Bison#Toys|Vega]]<nowiki>]</nowiki>. Megatron would have been redecoed/retooled into [[Gutcruncher (G1)|Gutcruncher]] with a new Titan Master face for Doomshot as part of the "Action on Hydrus Four" boxset for BotCon 2017 that never came to be.
{{--}}

==''Platinum Edition''==
[[File:TF-Platinum-Edition-OsS-OsF-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|"An official Red Ryder carbine-action, two-hundred-shot range-model air rifle, with a compass in the stock and this thing that tells time."]]
*'''One Shall Stand, One Shall Fall''' (2-pack, 2016)
:Part of Hasbro's ''[[Transformers: Platinum Edition|Platinum Edition]]'' offerings for 2016 intended to commemorate the 30th anniversary of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'', this Megatron is another redeco of the ''Classics'' Voyager toy. Megatron features a new and significantly different deco for the sake of [[for safety reasons|gun safety laws]]. The sides of his gun mode are entirely cast in clear red plastic, his arms are a different shade of red plastic and there is red paint on the legs as well–in addition to the bright orange parts on both the tip of the barrel and the scope, just like the ''Classics'' figure. Whether by design or by accident, his deco strongly resembles the [[Toys"R"Us]] exclusive [[Nerf]] "[[wikia:nerf:Sonic FIRE|Sonic Fire]]" color scheme.

:''Platinum Edition'' Megatron was only available as part of a 2-pack with [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#PEOSSOSF|Optimus Prime]], named "One Shall Stand, One Shall Fall" after Prime's famous line in the movie. In the United States and Canada, this set was officially released as an [[Amazon (website)|Amazon]] exclusive. It was also available in several of Hasbro's Asian markets (namely the Philippines and Singapore; it's currently unknown whether it was exclusive to any particular stores there or not). In Australia, it was sold at Myer stores, whereas in the United Kingdom, it was both sold at [[Toys"R"Us]] stores and available via Tesco's website (but never found in stores). Surprisingly, it was (and still is) a common find in Brazilian online stores.

::*[http://www.tfu.info/2016/Decepticon/PlatinumMegatron/megatron.htm More information on ''Platinum Edition'' One Shall Stand, One Shall Fall Megatron at TFU.info]
{{--}}

==''Alt-Modes''==
[[File:Alt-Modes Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Starscream shall pay for this!]]
*'''Megatron''' (Alt-Modes, 2016)
**''Series'': '''1, 2'''
**''Collection'': '''1, 2, 3''' (Series 1), '''1''' (Series 2)

:''[[Alt-Modes]]'' Megatron is a super deformed toy whose body transforms into a tank when the Decepticon faction symbol on his head is flipped. He was [[Blindpacking|blind-boxed]] and available in all four cases of the first and second series.
{{--}}

==''War for Cybertron: Siege''==
[[File:WFCS-Voyager-Megatron.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|[[Ironhide (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron: Siege|Such heroic nonsense.]]]]
*'''Megatron''' (Voyager Class, [[2019]])
**''Hasbro ID number:'' '''WFC-S12'''
**''TakaraTomy ID number'': '''SG-13'''
**''TakaraTomy release date'': '''[[March 30]], [[2019]]'''
**''Hidden message code'': '''KAON'''
**''Accessories:'' "D50-R35 Fusion Cannon", "HPR Telescopic Laserstrike Launcher" (combines to form "NFM Particle Beam Megalauncher")
{{toydesigner|[[Aaron Gray]] (Hasbro)|[[AJ Piejko-Brown]] (packaging)}}

:''[[War for Cybertron: Siege|Siege]]'' Megatron transforms from a G1 cartoon-esque robot to a <s>Grizzly battle tank from the ''Command & Conquer'' series</s> Cybertronian tank and back! Megatron's robot mode is pretty accurate to the original cartoon, despite having a completely different altmode. He is armed with 2 weapons compatible with the [[C.O.M.B.A.T. System]], one of which is his trademark [[fusion cannon]] called the "D50-R35 Fusion Cannon". The other is the "HPR Telescopic Laserstrike Launcher," with two symmetrical blades facing the opposite direction, and can transform into a large sword resembling the sword included in the Takara release of the [[Megatron (G1)/toys#Generation 1|original Generation 1 toy]] and can be stored on his back. It can also be mounted on his back to resemble the gun barrel on the original cartoon model's back. Both can combine into the insanely large "NFM Particle Beam Megalauncher," which is meant to be held in his hands or over his head. Like his contemporaries in the ''Siege'' toyline, Megatron features 'battle damage' paint applications all over his head, chest, arms, and legs.

:Due to the way Megatron transforms, it's possible to rotate the turret 180 degrees and use the fusion cannon solely as the tank barrel, in the event one should lose the "Laserstrike Launcher" accessory; while not as aesthetically pleasing as the intended transformation, it still works.

:Megatron also suffers a slight design flaw: unlike with the left ankle, the right ankle's pivoting joint has a tendency to not lock back to its straight position once it is unlocked. The only way to amend this is by pressing the top end of the black plastic peg on the right foot. The light grey backpack/central front tank kibble also has a tendency to dislodge if his waist is moved left or right. Due to the Fusion Cannon's slightly longer post, the hand's dorsal panel slightly protrudes when in tank mode.

:There is a message written in [[Cybertronian language|Cybertronian letters]] on Megatron's box art, which reads "RISE FROM THE SHADOWS". Megatron's pose in the instruction manual's front cover is based on the [[:File:Megatronguido.jpg|promotional artwork]] by [[Guido Guidi]].

:Amusingly, the first TakaraTomy (and later, Hasbro's secondary) stock photos of his robot mode depict him wielding the fusion cannon like a handheld weapon.

:Megatron was a notorious shelfwarmer, particularly in Asia, often unsold in large numbers.

:This mold was redecoed and retooled into multiple different Megatrons below, and [[Megatron (SG)#Shattered Glass Collection|Shattered Glass Megatron]].
{{WFCSiegeMegatronMold}}

{{-}}{{anchor|S66}}
[[File:TF-Generations-WFC-S-35th-Voyager-Classic-Animation-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|"I thought you're made of sterner stuff, [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#Walmart35thVoyager|Optimus."]]]]
*'''Classic Animation Megatron''' (Voyager Class, 2019)
**''ID number:'' '''WFC-S66'''
**''Accessories:'' "D50-R35 Fusion Cannon," "HPR Telescopic Laserstrike Launcher" (combines to form "NFM Particle Beam Megalauncher")
{{toydesigner|[[Mark Maher]] (deco artist)}}

:Specially branded for the 35th anniversary of the ''Transformers'' brand, ''Siege'' "Classic Animation Megatron" is a redeco of the Voyager figure above, featuring a cel-shaded paint pattern that evokes his appearance in the cartoon (though the physical result is reminiscent of [[Transformers: Devastation|''Devastation'']]). In addition, the figure omits the paint on the shoulders and his launcher/sword, and the front tank tread panels are now grey.

:Secondary stock photos of the robot mode still depicts his Fusion Cannon as a handheld weapon.

:Alongside fellow cel-shaded figure [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#S65|Optimus]], Megatron was exclusive to [[Walmart]] in Canada and the United States.
{{--}}

==''War for Cybertron Trilogy''==
[[File:TF-Netflix-WFC-Trilogy-Voyager-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|1,000,000 years and still functioning.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Voyager Class, [[2020]])
**''TakaraTomy ID number:'' '''WFC-07'''
**''TakaraTomy release date:'' [[December 19]], 2020
**''Accessories:'' "D50-R35 Fusion Cannon," "HPR Telescopic Laserstrike Launcher" (combines to form "NFM Particle Beam Megalauncher"), Pinpointer [[Battle Master]], Lionizer Battle Master, 3 [[Fire Blast effect]]s
{{toydesigner|[[AJ Piejko-Brown]] (packaging)}}

:Promoting the ''Siege'' chapter of the [[Netflix]] [[Transformers: War for Cybertron Trilogy (cartoon)|''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' cartoon]], this ''[[War for Cybertron Trilogy (toyline)|War for Cybertron Trilogy]]'' redeco of ''Siege'' Megatron slathers the Decepticon leader in an ''extensive'' paint wash coating to represent accumulated grime and battle scars. Aside from the mold's usual weapons, Megatron comes with redecos of ''Siege'' Firedrive into "[[Pinpointer (G1)#Generations|Captive Pinpointer]]" and "[[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Lionizer]]" with the original orange-and-grey color scheme, both with their own respective blast effects. Battle damage aside, Megatron's grey plastic is molded in a darker shade and his black plastic lacks any hints of brown. He also features metallic silver across his front on the silver sections, serving as a base for the battle damage. This Megatron features tighter ankle joints and a weakened snap, allowing for easier posing.

:The unpaintable metallic plastic parts, such as the sword's blades, the upper thighs, and the joints, are prone to [[photodegradation]].

:As with other Netflix series figures, Megatron was exclusive to Walmart in Canada and the United States. Megatron was also available as a Kmart exclusive in Australia.
{{WFCSiegeMegatronMold}}

{{-}}{{anchor|E33}}
[[File:WarForCybertronCenturionDroneWeaponizerPack.jpeg|upright=1.66|thumb|Are you sure it's not an upside-down submarine?]]
*'''Deluxe Centurion Drone''' (Deluxe Class with accessories pack, 2020)
:An accessory of Megatron's Pistol form is available as part of the ''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' [[Centurion droid#Toys|Deluxe Centurion Drone Weaponizer Pack]]. It also comes with a silencer, but does not include the stock. In Japan, the toy was released as a [[TakaraTomy]] Mall exclusive for ''Earthrise''.<ref name="TT Twitter">{{citesocial|quote=＼フォロワー27 000人突破／新情報2つ目はアースライズシリーズ「センチュリオンドローン＆ウェポナイザー」発売決定しました！予約開始は少し先の予定ですが楽しみしてにお待ち下さい！ #トランスフォーマー #Transformers https://t.co/8DpFsjRCuP|link=https://twitter.com/TF_pr/status/1285098906422931456/|name=Transformers PR|site=Twitter|year=2020|month=07|day=20|(defunct=)}}</ref>

:It should be noted that this is the first ''Generations'' toy to depict his alt mode as a gun, albeit in a non-converting accessory form. It was soon followed by the ''Kingdom'' Core Class toy below.

{{-}}{{anchor|2021Netflix}}
[[File:TF-Netflix-WFC-Trilogy-Spoiler-Pack-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
*'''Spoiler Pack''' (Leader Unboxing, [[2021]])
**''Accessories:'' "D50-R35 Fusion Cannon," "HPR Telescopic Laserstrike Launcher" (combines to form "NFM Particle Beam Megalauncher"), [[Matrix of Leadership/toys#Spoiler|Matrix of Leadership]] bandolier, [[AllSpark#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Allspark]], two Fire Blast effects, [[Play-Doh|compound]]
:Promoting the ''Kingdom'' chapter of the Netflix ''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' cartoon, Megatron is a minor redeco of the [[#War for Cybertron Trilogy|above]] Netflix ''Siege''-based Megatron, with blue highlights on the "HPR Telescopic Laserstrike Launcher" instead of red, and more accurate chest battle damage (albeit, to his appearance in the ''Siege'' and first half of ''Earthrise'' chapters). His silver paint is also a lighter shade while the other paint applications are a darker shade. The set includes the translucent purple "[[Skelivore#Toys|Fossilizer Skelivore]]", the [[Matrix of Leadership/toys#Spoiler|Matrix of Leadership]] on a bandolier, and a compound through which a buyer can dig to reveal two blue "Fire Blast" effects (redecoed from ''Earthrise'' [[Slitherfang#Toys|Slitherfang]] and [[Doublecrosser (Earthrise)#Toys|Doublecrosser]]'s effects parts) and the [[AllSpark#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Allspark]].

:The Matrix bandolier can latch onto his robot mode chest or his tank turret, and the Allspark is compatible with the 3 mm effects part system, featuring a 3 mm port on one face and a shallow 3 mm post of its own on the opposite side. Skelivore can use the C.O.M.B.A.T. System/[[F.O.S.S.I.L. Technology]] to weaponize Megatron, with two official configurations, and their head specifically evoking Megatron's classic [[energon mace]].

:Much like previous Spoiler Packs, this set is in a windowless box designed to look like an ammo crate and features translatable [[Cybertronian language|Ancient Autobot]] inside the box. The lateral side of the package also features artwork of Megatron, reused from the ''Kingdom'' [[:File:Kingdom Golden Disk Megatron returns to pits.jpg|Wave 2 Golden Disk card]]. Compared to the previous [[Nemesis Prime (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Spoiler Pack]], the packaging itself uses less cardboard and tape and has two Decepticon-themed quotes as opposed to one Autobot and one Decepticon. The "spoiler" text reads "WITH THE MATRIX IN HAND / I CAN WIN THE ALLSPARK / AND USE IT TO RESHAPE / CYBERTRON IN MY IMAGE" and "TAKE THE MATRIX / MEGATRON THEN THE / ALLSPARK MAY IT HAVE / MERCY ON YOU", quotes from Megatron and Optimus Prime respectively from [[Kingdom episode 4|''Kingdom'' episode 4]], though Megatron's quote in the cartoon lacks "With the Matrix in hand".

:Megatron's renders in the instructions feature the battle damage from the first [[#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Netflix ''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' toy]], as opposed to the battle damage on this release. Also, the image showing the completely assembled second official weaponizer configuration in the instructions depicts the included effect parts being plugged onto the ends of the back-mounted cannons to simulate muzzle-flash effects; however, this configuration is impossible with the selected effect part mold types that were included with this set.

:As with other Netflix-series figures, this Spoiler Pack was exclusive to Walmart in Canada and the United States. This set was also available as a Kmart exclusive in Australia and was on [[Hasbro Pulse]] in the US and the UK in limited quantities.
{{WFCSiegeMegatronMold}}

==''War for Cybertron: Earthrise''==
[[File:TF-Generations-WFC-E-Voyager-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|What, were you expecting a [[Sixshot (G1)#toys|submarine]]]]
*'''Megatron''' (Voyager Class, 2020)
**''Hasbro ID number:'' '''WFC-E38'''
**''TakaraTomy ID number:'' '''ER-13'''
**''TakaraTomy release date:'' [[January 30]], [[2021]]
**''Accessories:'' Fusion Cannon, tank turret/bladed weapon, tank-filler part/shield
:Released as part of the third and final wave of ''[[War for Cybertron: Earthrise|Earthrise]]'' Voyager Class toys, Megatron is a heavy retool of ''Siege'' Megatron that converts into an Earth-based tank (particularly resembling an M1A2 Abrams) while sharing a mostly identical transformation scheme (and parts, such as the thighs, feet, front of the upper arms, forearms, and various inner parts). Megatron also retains the "battle damage" paint his ''Siege'' figure featured, mostly focused around his legs and tank body. Unlike the stock render, the rear half of Megatron's shoulders are molded in black plastic. Megatron also features a "D-16" marking on the left side of his tank body, referencing his Japanese ID number.

:Like the ''Siege'' figure, Megatron's turret also doubles as a melee weapon, though it must be forearm mounted in order to use the blade. The blade can be a shield if paired with the sword from the ''Siege'' toy above. To try and reduce his alternate mode's resemblance to an H-tank, he has a [[Partformer|partforming]] piece that is attached between his shins, or onto the bladed weapon. Stock photography for the above ''Generations Selects'' redeco shows the melee weapon can plug into his back as a back-mounted cannon, much like his "G1" cartoon design, and the filler part can be a forearm-mounted shield.

:The new tooling to keep his head/neck flap more secure can make pulling his head out while transforming him to robot mode ''very'' difficult; the strain of doing so can cause the ball joint socket to crack, and form stress marks on his cheeks. This can be remedied by pushing the flap up from beneath using the filler/shield piece tabs.

:The unpaintable plastic parts, such as the thighs and the joints, are prone to [[photodegradation]].

:Like all ''Earthrise'' toys, Megatron comes with an exclusive piece of a clip-and-save of a larger star map, along with a translucent red decoder. Megatron's piece of the map, aptly, is the labeled location of "[[Cybertron (planet)|CYBERTRON]]".

:The [[energon mace]] accessory was sold separately as part of the ''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' [[Centurion droid#Toys|Deluxe Centurion Drone]] set above. The mace is intended for ''Earthrise'' Megatron's newly molded hands, so keep caution for a breakage risk if used on ''Siege'' Megatron.
{{WFCSiegeMegatronMold}}
{{--}}

==''Generations Selects''==
{{anchor|GS01}}
[[File:Selects-Voyager-CombatMegatron.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|After many years, unobtainium has finally become obtainable.]]
*'''Combat Megatron''' (Voyager Class, [[2019]])
**''Series'': '''''War for Cybertron: Siege'''''
**''ID number:'' '''WFC-GS01'''
**''Accessories:'' "D50-R35 Fusion Cannon," "HPR Telescopic Laserstrike Launcher" (combines to form "NFM Particle Beam Megalauncher")
{{toydesigner|[[Hirofumi Ichikawa]] (detailing), [[Mark Maher]] (deco artist)|[[AJ Piejko-Brown]] (packaging)}}

:"Combat Megatron", a ''[[Generations Selects (toyline)|Generations Selects]]'' add-on to ''Siege'', is a redeco and new head retool of the above Voyager Class mold in the arctic camouflage deco of the unreleased ''Generation 2'' [[Megatron (G1)/toys#CombatHero|Combat Hero figure]]. The figure's new head is based on Megatron's initial "miner" appearance in [[IDW Publishing]]'s ''[[The Transformers: Megatron Origin|Megatron Origin]]'', drawing most heavily on [[Marcelo Matere]]'s covers for the series. (Coincidentally or not, the [[#TFSS|last Megatron toy]] based on the same unreleased deco ''also'' used tooling based on IDW Megatron's mining days.)

:Announced at New York [[Toy Fair 2019]], this Megatron was an exclusive debuted at the regular Voyager price through the [[Hasbro Pulse]] website in the U.S. market. Combat Megatron comes in a mostly plain cardboard box with black spray-paint deco in the form of a drippy Autobot symbol, "WAR" spelled out in Cybertronian, and the "War for Cybertron Trilogy" nameplate. While the instructions replaced the ID number and Megatron's name with "Combat Megatron", the CGI renders still depict the original head. Also included is a thank you letter from Hasbro's [[John Warden]].

:Despite being the third ''Generations Selects'' figure to be announced, Combat Megatron came out ahead of [[Ricochet (Headmasters)#Generations|Ricochet]] and [[Swoop (G1)/toys#POTPGS|Red Swoop]].

:This toy was repurposed as [[White Megatron]] in ''[[Generations Selects Special Comic]]''.
{{WFCSiegeMegatronMold}}

{{-}}{{anchor|SuperMegatron}}
[[File:TF-Selects-Super-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|"Why do [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys#Future|you]] throw your turn away so recklessly?"]]
*'''Super Megatron''' ([[September 26]], [[2020]])
**''Hasbro ID number:'' '''TT-GS09'''
**''Accessories:'' Fusion Cannon/starship nose/tank turret, triple-barrelled cannon
{{toydesigner|[[Ban Magami]] (concept artist)}}

:''[[Generations Selects (toyline)|Generations Selects]]'' Super Megatron is an extensive retool of [[Galvatron (G1)/toys#Titans Return|''Titans Return'' Voyager Class Galvatron]], with the Titan Master gimmick being removed. The figure is based upon illustrations by [[Ban Magami]] for [[:File:SuperAndUltraMegatron.jpg|Super Megatron and Ultra Megatron]] from ''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: The Battlestars (story page)|The Battlestars]]'' story pages, and is capable of assuming the two robot modes and two alternate modes featured therein; the figure is very faithful to the much older art because Magami created the character designs with a working transformation in mind.<ref>[https://tfsource.com/blog/2020/04/03/countdown-answering-5-big-questions-about-the-generations-selects-super-megatron/ COUNTDOWN: Answering 5 big questions about the Generations Selects Super Megatron at TFSource]</ref> Although not officially a part of the [[War for Cybertron Trilogy (toyline)|''War for Cybertron'']] toyline, he has a grand total of 19(!) [[5 mm post|5 mm ports]] distributed throughout his new tooling, making him more than compatible with the [[C.O.M.B.A.T. System]].

:Being faithful to the illustrations it is based upon, the figure has both a "Super Jet Mode" and a triple-barreled "Ultra Tank Mode". The figure comes with his signature fusion cannon, which forms the nose of his gunship mode and the turret of his tank mode. He also has a triple-barreled cannon, which is stored inside the fusion cannon, and can be accessed by unfolding the front of the cannon and opening it up from the bottom. The triple-barreled cannon is detachable from the fusion cannon, and can be wielded by Super Megatron as a handheld weapon if you so choose.

:As mentioned before, the figure also has two robot modes to represent Super Megatron and his upgraded '''Ultra Megatron''' form, which differ in forehead and chest detailing. In service to this, Super Megatron's forehead and chest can be swapped around between his two robot modes. The two robot modes are also distinguished by weapon configuration (the fusion cannon being closed for Super Megatron and open for Ultra Megatron, and Ultra Megatron also featuring the triple-barrelled cannon mounted on his right shoulder) and gunship mode wing arrangement (folded for Super Megatron and unfolded for Ultra Megatron).

:Original to the figure and its [[Super Megatron comic 2|accompanying fiction]], a third robot mode was also designed and given the name '''Ultra Megatron Omega''', formed by taking the figure in its Ultra Megatron robot mode and swapping its face out for a more monstrous one. This new face appears to be an amalgam taking cues from both his [[Megatron (Movie)|live-action film counterpart]]'s mask in ''The Last Knight'', as well as the face of [[Dark Nova]]. If one so wishes, he can take the [[Silver Matrix]] accessory included with [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#Selects|''Generations Selects'' Star Convoy]] and plug it into this figure's left shoulder to replicate [[:File:Ultra Megatron Omega Selects.jpg|his initial appearance]] upon transforming into this form.

:The ''Selects'' [[God Neptune comic 2|Special Comic promoting God Neptune]] further introduces a ''fourth'' robot mode, '''[[:File:Megatron Omega Perfect Selects.jpg|Megatron Omega: Perfect Form]]''', into which the figure can also be configured. To achieve this, his shoulder pads must be folded back, with the smaller wing pieces angled up at a 45° angle; his chest piece with the insignia, folded forward to partially reveal the tread details; his back wings folded down at a 45° angle; and his Fusion Cannon/triple-barreled cannon should be in tank mode configuration, tabbed into the port on his upper-back, with the triple-barrels facing straight up. His Fusion Cannon barrel halves should then be angled up at 45° angles, to create an "X-wing" shape behind him.

:The aforementioned God Neptune chapter also depicts a third alternate mode for Ultra Megatron Omega, an "[[:File:GS-Ultra-Megatron-Omega-SF-Gun-Turret--Mode.jpg|SF Gun Turret Mode]]". To achieve this mode, Megatron must first be placed into his Super Jet Mode, from there the subsequent steps can be taken in any order. With his waist kept in the same configuration, his legs must be rotated at the thigh, then folded up alongside his torso; his arms must be folded straight down, with the forearms folded forward, so that the figure is now resting on both them and the tank treads on his legs; the chestplate must then be lowered slightly, so that the treads touch the ground; his larger wings should be folded up into the tank mode configuration; and his smaller wings should be folded straight back.

:A feature not mentioned in the instructions is that the lower part of his helmet is attached via a [[C joint]] on the neck, and can be removed to allow easier access to the forehead and face-swapping gimmick. This is particularly helpful, as otherwise there isn't much clearance for it to turn, and the swivel is fairly tight.

:Contrary to popular belief, this figure ''is'' in scale with ''Selects'' [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#Generations Selects|Star Convoy]].

:This toy was released exclusively through [[TakaraTomy Mall]] in Japan and an EB Games exclusive in Australia.

{{-}}{{anchor|GS14}}
[[File:TF-Generations-Selects-Voyager-G2-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Voice of Doom sadly not included.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Voyager Class, 2020)
**''Series'': '''''War for Cybertron: Earthrise'''''
**''ID number:'' '''WFC-GS14'''
**''Accessories:'' Fusion Cannon, tank turret/spear, tank-filler part/shield
:A ''[[Generations Selects (toyline)|Selects]]'' add-on to ''[[War for Cybertron: Earthrise|Earthrise]]'', this version of Megatron is a redeco of the ''Earthrise'' Voyager Class mold above in the first ''Generation 2'' toy-themed colors.

:Much like most 2020 ''Selects'' products, the toy is only branded as part of the ''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' and not ''Earthrise''.
{{WFCSiegeMegatronMold}}
{{-}}

[[File:Behold Galvatron Megatron.JPG|thumb|200px]]{{anchor|Behold}}
* '''Behold, Galvatron! Unicron Companion Pack''' (Leader Class, 2022)
:This release of Megatron is as a non-transforming and immobile [[Slug figure|minifigure]], barely 10mm tall, scaled to interact with the immense [[Unicron/toys#War for Cybertron Trilogy|''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' Unicron]] figure and its clear display base. This was one of a set of 14 minifigures in the "Unicron Companion Pack" that was included with the [[Galvatron (G1)/toys#BeholdGalvatron|"reformatting" version of Galvatron]]. The set was [[exclusive]] to [[Hasbro Pulse]].
{{--}}

==''War for Cybertron: Kingdom''==
[[File:WFC-Kingdom Core Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Add in a 5mm peg, and you can have Megatron holding Megatron holding Megatron.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Core Class, [[2021]])
**''Hasbro ID number'': '''WFC-K13'''
**''TakaraTomy ID number'': '''KD EX-06'''
**''TakaraTomy release date'': [[July 31]], 2021
**''Accessories:'' Blaster/Tank Barrel
{{toydesigner|[[Evan Brooks]] (Hasbro), [[Takio Ejima]] (TakaraTomy)|[[Mark Maher]] (deco artist)}}<ref>[https://youtu.be/PdsHMGVDZFg?si=7IIIhq2AU8jwMnSx Interview] with [[Hasbro]] designer [[Evan Brooks]] on the Triple Takeover podcast, from their YouTube channel</ref>

:''[[War for Cybertron: Kingdom|Kingdom]]'' Core Class Megatron is a Legends-sized toy that can interact with Titan Class figures. He takes many cues from his larger ''Earthrise'' toy sculpt-wise, with similar robot and Earth-based tank forms... save for the head, which seems to be based on his ''Masterpiece'' figure. His tank mode lacks any kind of rolling wheels.

:Megatron features his trademark Fusion Cannon, attached with a mushroom joint. He includes a blaster resembling his original pistol alternate mode which forms his (rather unconvincing) tank mode's barrel and has a stacked peg with 3-millimeter and 5-millimeter portions for compatibility with other Core figures as well as larger size classes. As shown in the instructions, but not specifically pointed out as such, the gun can plug into his back to replicate the gun barrel from the G1 figure. Due to the right forearm needing two pieces for the transformation, Megatron ends up having two asymmetrical forearm parts.

:Megatron suffers from a mildly annoying issue regarding his shoulder joints; the hook tabs can barely lock into place, and they can be dislodged if his arms are bent back in robot mode. Fortunately, the shoulder ball-and-socket joints are loose enough (though not to a greater extent) to counter this.
{{--}}

==''Premium Finish''==
[[File:TF-Premium-Finish-PF-WFC-02-Megatron.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|"Why [[#War_for_Cybertron Trilogy|throw]] [[#War_for_Cybertron:_Siege|away]] away your money so recklessly?"]]
*'''Megatron''' (Voyager Class, [[November 27]], 2021)
**''ID number'': '''PF WFC-02'''
**''Hasbro ID number'': '''GE-02'''
**''Accessories'': "D50-R35 Fusion Cannon", "HPR Telescopic Laserstrike Launcher" (combines to form "NFM Particle Beam Megalauncher")
:As part of the second wave of TakaraTomy's ''[[Transformers Premium Finish|''Premium Finish'']]'' subline, Megatron is a detailed redeco of the [[#War_for_Cybertron:_Siege|''Siege'']] mold, featuring more paint applications that represent his appearance in [[Transformers: War for Cybertron Trilogy (cartoon)|''Transformers: War for Cybertron: Siege'']] and with the same weapons as the aforementioned mold. The stock photo samples have paint on his [[unpaintable plastic]] thighs and joints, which is absent on the final product.

:For some reason, the stock photos depict his shoulders sitting a bit too low, due to them not being fully inserted to the joint.
{{WFCSiegeMegatronMold}}
{{-}}

==''Collaborative''==
[[File:Collab-toy-Megatron-HISS-Tank.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Megatron opted for the lady because [[Cobra Commander|her boss]] reminds him too much of Starscream [[Chris Latta|for some reason]]...]]
*'''Megatron H.I.S.S. Tank and Baroness''' ([[2022]])
**''Accessories'': [[Baroness#Collaborative|Baroness]], backpack, rifle, battle stand, fusion cannon, 2x turret guns, HISS tank rear panel/shield
{{toydesigner|[[Evan Brooks]] (Hasbro), [[Shuhei Umezu]] (TakaraTomy)|[[Mario Carreiro]] (packaging)<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dfy3IcQd3g4 The Hasbro ''Transformers'' Panel] at [[San Diego Comic-Con#2024|San Diego Comic-Con 2024]] with [[Mario Carreiro]], [[John Warden]], [[Evan Brooks]] and [[Nate Purswell]], recorded at the "Memo's Collection" YouTube channel.</ref>}}

:The tenth figure released in the ''[[Transformers Collaborative|Collaborative]]'' line, "Megatron H.I.S.S. Tank" transforms from an almost 100% accurate [[Cobra]] signature original [[H.I.S.S. tank|H.I.S.S. tank]] into a roughly Commander Class-sized Megatron. He comes with his traditional fusion cannon accessory and has a swiveling twin turret backpack, whose guns can be lowered down to tilt over Megatron's head or turn left or right. Both turret guns are attached via 5mm pegs and features pegs for [[Fire Blast effect|fire blast effects]]. Megatron's fusion cannon can either mount atop his H.I.S.S. form's turret platform or on the outside of either fist.

:His hips are ratchet joints, but the rest are all simple friction joints, including his lateral thigh swivels, which when combined with the weight of half the vehicle mode hanging off his back means that he's prone to tipping over in certain poses. Megatron's sizeable heel spurs do a lot to alleviate the problem, thankfully. The back plating and rear guard of the H.I.S.S. detaches to form a shield. The back of his fusion cannon is severely truncated to clear the H.I.S.S. parts on his shoulders or the turret gunner in vehicle mode, which looks more than a little silly. Said cannon and shield both attach via fairly shallow 5mm pegs. Due to packaging constraints, most of the H.I.S.S. tank is detached from Megatron in the box, with only the treads and lower part of the cockpit built into the main figure. Megatron is also a considerably warmer gray than depicted in his stock renders.

:The set also includes a new recreated original 3.75" [[Baroness]] figure, with recreations of her accessories as well as a battle stand, who can ride in Megatron's H.I.S.S. mode cockpit or man his turret guns. Rather impressively, Megatron can be transformed entirely without removing the figure from the turret, though the same can't be said for the one in the cockpit.

:Although originally set to release in January 2023, Megatron and The Baroness were spotted at a [[Toys"R"Us]] in [[Taiwan]] in late [[June]] 2022 and was released more widely via online outlets starting in [[October]] of that year.

:This toy also doubles as the independent ''[[Transformers Roleplaying Game]]'' character [[Fusion (RPG)|Fusion]].
{{-}}

==''Legacy''==
[[File:TF-Legacy-Core-Class-G2-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|A worthy opponent for [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Universe (2003)|this guy.]]]]
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-d2|'''G2 Universe Megatron''' (Core Class, [[2022]])}}</ul>
:*''Accessories'': Blaster/tank barrel

: Part of the second wave of ''[[Transformers: Legacy|Legacy]]'' Core Class toys, "G2 Universe Megatron" is a [[redeco]] of [[#War for Cybertron: Kingdom|''Kingdom'' Core Class Megatron]] in the colors of his ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (franchise)|Generation 2]]'' [[Megatron (G1)/toys#Generation 2|tank incarnation]], and serves as a scaled-down version of the [[#GS14|''Generations Selects'' repaint]] of the Voyager Class ''Earthrise'' mold. Megatron includes the same blaster accessory as the original ''Kingdom'' toy, this time cast in green.

{{-}}{{anchor|RiseofTyranny}}
[[File:TF-Legacy-Miner-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Just a miner retool.]]
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-multi|'''Rise of Tyranny 2-Pack''' (2-pack, 2023) }}</ul>
:*''Accessories'': Drill, drill attachment, pickaxe, handle
{{toydesigner|[[Evan Brooks]] (Hasbro), [[Koki Yamada]] (TakaraTomy)}}<ref>[[May 16]], [[2023]]'s [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPFnqhvXhTs Hasbro Pulse Transformers Fanstream] on YouTube, with [[Evan Brooks]], [[Ben MacCrae]], and [[Sixo]].</ref>

: Revealed during the [[May 16]]th, 2023 Transformers Fanstream, ''[[Transformers: Legacy|Legacy: Evolution]]'' "Miner Megatron" is a retool of the ''Siege'' mold to match his younger appearance in the [[2005 IDW continuity]], with a new chest, shoulders, hazard stripes and an [[Alex Milne]]-inspired head. Oddly, this newly molded head is a completely different mold from the ''Generations Selects'' Combat Megatron toy's head, which was also inspired by Megatron's miner design. While his helmet has details from ''[[The Transformers: Megatron Origin|Megatron Origin]]'', the color scheme and molding changes reference his appearance in ''[[Chaos Theory Part 1|Chaos Theory]]'' and ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]''. He includes a new pickaxe, drill, and drill mount rather than his fusion cannon and sword. He is capable of attaching the pickaxe head between the drill and mount to create a crossbow-like weapon through Evo-Fusion.

: Some copies of the figure have been reported to have their inner knee joints misassembled—the circular detail above the screw should be towards the back instead of the front. One way to remedy this is to unscrew the knees, pop the pin in the thigh and swap the knee joint. This also has been reported to (somewhat) improve the joint's looseness.<ref>[https://twitter.com/shihshihming1/status/1677047933429239808 @ShihShihMing1's tweet showcasing the issue], 6 July 2023</ref>

: He is included in a "Cybertronian Origins" two-pack with [[Ratbat (G1)/toys#Legacy|Senator Ratbat]].

: Amazon mistakenly mixed up the product IDs for the Rise of Tyranny and Humble Origins two-packs; as a result, customers who pre-ordered this set were actually sent [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#HumbleOrigins|Data Clerk Orion Pax]] and [[Shockwave (G1)/toys#HumbleOrigins|Senator Shockwave]]. This was corrected a few days after the pre-orders started arriving; customers who purchase this set now will receive what they ordered.

::''[https://www.instagram.com/p/CsUU9MpO8M9/ Designer commentary on Miner Megatron from Evan Brooks on Instagram]''
{{WFCSiegeMegatronMold}}
{{-}}

{{-}}{{anchor|FracturedFriendship}}
[[File:TF-Legacy-United-Fractured-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2sq409UGtY "I'm Spartacus!"]]]
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-a1d1|'''Fractured Friendship 2-Pack''' (2-pack, [[2024]]) }}</ul>
:*''Accessories'': Drill, drill attachment, pickaxe, handle, energy sword, energon hammer

: ''[[Transformers: Legacy|Legacy: United]]'' "Gladiator Megatron" is a redeco of the ''Legacy: Evolution'' figure above, this time based specifically on his gladiator look from ''[[The Transformers: Megatron Origin|Megatron Origin]]''. He includes all of Miner Megatron's accessories, now recolored to match Gladiator Megatron's light gray color scheme, as well as a red energy sword and a pink energon hammer, both taken from his battle with [[Cy-Kill (G1)|Cy-Kill]] in [[Megatron Origin issue 2|issue #2]]. These weapons can peg into his shoulders for storage in robot mode, but unusually for a modern ''Transformers'' toys, there's nowhere for them to go while he's in vehicle mode.

: Gladiator Megatron is included in the "Fractured Friendship" 2-pack alongside the similarly IDW-inspired [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#FracturedFriendship|Security Officer Orion Pax]]. The two-pack was revealed by IGN on [[June 27]], 2024 as an exclusive for that year's [[San Diego Comic-Con]], with limited quantities to later be made available on [[Hasbro Pulse]]. The set was spotted at Chinese retail soon after its official reveal. <ref>[https://www.ign.com/articles/hasbro-sdcc-exclusive-figures-star-wars-marvel-transformers-gi-joe Hasbro SDCC 2024 exclusives reveal] - on IGN</ref>
{{--}}

==''Timelines'' (2025)==
[[File:ComicEditionHOSMegatron.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.66|[[Hearts_of_Steel#Alternate_modes|A figure worth giving away your firstborn child for.]]]]
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-a1d1|'''Timelines Bumblebee / Timelines Megatron''' ([[2025]])}}</ul>
:*''Accessories'': Fusion cannon
{{toydesigner|[[Evan Brooks]] (Hasbro), [[Guido Guidi]] (original concept, packaging artist)|[[Mario Carreiro]] (packaging)}}<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viJopRdWtZA ''Transformers'' panel] at [[Megacon Orlando#2025|Megacon Orlando 2025]] with [[Emily Bader]] and [[Evan Brooks]], recorded at the "V-man" YouTube channel.</ref>

: ''[[Transformers: Generations (toyline)#Timelines|Timelines]]'' Megatron is based on [[Guido Guidi]]'s unused design for the character in ''[[Hearts of Steel]]'', and transforms from a robot into a wheeled cannon. He comes packaged with [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys#Timelines (2025)|Bumblebee]].

: Due to his the size of his figure and the transformation scheme, Megatron lacks wrist swivels while otherwise having the typical range for a modern figure. His alternate mode has a few small gun barrels built into it, including two on the front between the wheels and a small turret mounted on top of the barrel of the cannon. Based on the proportions of the toy, the barrel on this small turret would be about the length of his original design's barrel extension if shrunk down for a human of the same scale.

: Several stock images of the figure show him holding the cannon in his hand. While this is possible, the intended mounting point is the 5mm port on his forearm.
{{--}}

==''Studio Series''==
[[File:TFTM-SS-Leader-Megatron.jpg|thumb|300px|As seen in ''The Transformers: The Movie: <s>A New Translation</s> The Special Edition Cut''.]]
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-d1|'''Megatron''' (Leader Class, 2025)}}</ul>
:*''Movie'': '''''The Transformers: The Movie'''''
:*''TakaraTomy ID number'': '''TS-12'''
:*''Accessories'': Fusion cannon, back barrel, Walther-inspired blaster, energy sword
{{toydesigner|[[Evan Brooks]] (Hasbro), [[Yūya Ōnishi]] (TakaraTomy)<ref>[[June 24]], [[2025]]'s [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uaPi02SMMSo Transformers Studio Series Fanstream | June 2025 | Hasbro Pulse] on YouTube, with [[Nate Purswell]] and [[Evan Brooks]].</ref>}}

:Released as part of the final wave of 2025 ''[[Studio Series]]'' Leader Class figures, Megatron stands the same size as the line's Commander Class [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#Studio Series|Optimus Prime]]. He transforms into his [[For safety reasons|by-now-expected]] tank mode similar to his ''[[Transformers: Devastation|Devastation]]'' counterpart, but with an unprecedentedly "clean" transformation that hides the tank treads fully inside the robot legs, leaving no backpack at all. The tank mode is based on the unproduced {{w|M8 Armored Gun System}} from (appropriately enough) the 1980s. In addition to his two-piece tank barrel, which splits into his signature fusion cannon and back-mounted barrel, Megatron comes with the energy sword he used in his duel with Prime in the film, as well as a blaster resembling his classic gun mode (but without the stock).

:The box photos show a close-up of Megatron's arm in a blue coloration to represent universal compatibility of the blaster accessory with other figures. Many fans misinterpreted this as a potential repaint tease, but this rumor was quickly quelled a month after his reveal.<ref>{{citesocial|quote= Ok, it is nothing, that’s all I’m gonna say, is it’s essentially – it was done by our team to just kind of show that any and all different characters can hold the Megatron blaster. So that’s all that is. It’s not a reference to anything – I’ve actually gotten some questions on if that’s supposed to be Safety Megatron or anything like that. I promise you it’s not, it was just our team trying to make that stand out to show that a different character can hold his blaster mode.|link= https://news.tfw2005.com/2025/08/01/sdcc-2025-hasbro-interview-age-of-the-primes-studio-series-haslabs-more-542176|name=Evan Brooks|site=TFW2005|title= SDCC 2025 Hasbro Interview – Age Of The Primes, Studio Series, Haslabs, More!year=2025|month=08|day=01}}</ref>

:The instructions and the render on the back of the box, show Megatron’s gunbarrel attachment, having the “sights” pointing away from his body. Whereas, in the movie it’s on the front pointing forwards.

:Care should be taken when placing his sword into his hand. His thumb moves a considerable amount when placing it in, and could snap off easily if done repeatedly.

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Amazon exclusives]]
[[Category:Collaborative Decepticons]]
[[Category:Combiner Wars Decepticons]]
[[Category:Convention exclusives]]
[[Category:Generations]]
[[Category:Generations Selects toy Decepticons]]
[[Category:Legacy Decepticons]]
[[Category:Platinum Edition]]
[[Category:Pretenders]]
[[Category:SDCC exclusives]]
[[Category:TakaraTomy Mall exclusives]]
[[Category:Titans Return Decepticons]]
[[Category:Triple Changers]]
[[Category:War for Cybertron: Earthrise Decepticons]]
[[Category:War for Cybertron: Kingdom Decepticons]]
[[Category:War for Cybertron: Siege Decepticons]]

Megatron (G1)/Generations toys

2025-09-07T21:17:37Z

Diesel Prime: /* Studio Series */

{{suite}}
[[File:Kingdom Golden Disk Megatron returns to pits.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]

Much like [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]], the [[Decepticon]] leader also continues to receive more toys than the average ''[[Transformers brand|Transformers]]'' character. While '''[[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]''' doesn't have quite as many toys as his nemesis, he is one of ''at least'' [[Bumblebee (G1)|four]] [[Starscream (G1)|main]] characters that are guaranteed to get a new toy just about every year.

For the sake of finding an easy and definitive split from the main toy article, we have opted to make this page strictly for the various ''[[Transformers: Generations (toyline)|Generations]]''-branded toylines, as this appears to be the brand [[Hasbro]] will likely continue adding Generation 1 characters to for the foreseeable future.

==GDO==
{{anchor|GenerationsVoyager}}
[[File:GenerationsGDOtoy-Megatron.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|[[Bludgeon (RID 2001)|What goes around, comes around.]]]]
*'''Megatron''' (Voyager Class, [[2012]])
**''Accessories:'' {{w|Katana}}, {{w|:Wakizashi|tanto}}
{{toydesigner|[[Andrew Frankel]] (Hasbro)}}
:''[[Transformers: Generations (toyline)|Generations]]'' Megatron is an Asian market and Toys"R"Us-exclusive redeco/retool of ''[[Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (toyline)|Revenge of the Fallen: N.E.S.T. Global Alliance]]'' Voyager Class [[Bludgeon (ROTF)#Voyager|Bludgeon]], sporting a new, smiling head. Megatron transforms from a Japanese {{w|Type 90 Kyū-maru|Type 90}} tank into a samurai-esque robot mode. He features a flexible plastic sword which is made out of a portion of the barrel of the tank's main gun, as well as a smaller dagger. The dagger can be stored in a sheath which is revealed from inside the tank turret, and both blades can be slotted in holes provided on the robot mode's left hip guard. The larger sword has a peghole at the bottom of the hilt; though it is specifically designed to allow the dagger's handle to fit in the base to form a double-bladed weapon, it can also fit any other accessory that uses [[5 mm post]]s. The post used to combine the swords remains unobstructed in vehicle mode, meaning you can attach the dagger to the end of Megatron's main tank cannon if you're feeling silly. He also has [[Mech Alive]] [[gimmick]]s in his thighs and turret: sculpted cylinders in his thighs rotate whenever his lower legs are rotated, and pulling his turret open makes a sculpted white "disc" at the center rotate while a scabbard for the tantō hinges over to the side and props itself up for use.

:The vehicle mode is one of the very few Transformer tank toys with rubber components to its treads. Portions of the tread links can unlock, allowing them to hang from the robot mode, while the wheels of the treads are integrated separately into the robot mode form itself. The treads still do not function realistically; small plastic wheels on the underside of the treads help the tank mode roll, as is standard with nearly all Transformer tank toys. On the plus side, the tank turret can be rotated a full three-hundred sixty degrees, as can the purple machine gun that sits atop the turret.

:Unlike the other uses of this mold, Megatron comes [[Packaging|packaged]] in robot mode holding his swords, with additional plastic and paper ties in the tray imperfectly holding his swords in position. Because they were packaged this way since they were shipped out of the factory, most Megatrons come with the swords being badly bent and warped in the box. Fortunately, the swords' blades can be mostly straightened by leaving them sheathed in their hidden scabbards. Straightening their ''hilts'' is a different matter, though.

:As a redeco of the ''Revenge of the Fallen'' Bludgeon mold, it is highly likely that Megatron is cursed with the same design fault as his brethren - the rubber treads break down over the course of years, causing them to corrode spots of plastic and leave melty gashes behind.

:This version of the mold was also used to make ''[[Transformers Cloud|Cloud]]'' [[Megatron (Cloud)#Toys|Megatron]], while the original version was redecoed into ''[[Transformers (2010 toyline)|Hunt for the Decepticons]]'' [[Banzaitron (TF 2010)#Toys|Banzaitron]], and differently retooled to make ''[[Transformers Timelines (toyline)|Timelines]]'' [[Overlord (G1)#Timelines|Gigatron]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/2012/Decepticon/GDOMegatron/megatron.htm More information on ''Generations'' Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{ROTFBludgeonMold}}

==''Thrilling 30''==
{{anchor|GenerationsLegends}}
[[File:Generationstoy-T30-LegendsMegatronChopShop.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Watch yer wallet, Megs.]]
*'''Megatron & Chop Shop''' (Legends Class, [[2013]])
**''Series / Number'': '''02 / #004'''
{{toydesigner|[[Joe Kyde]] (Hasbro)}}

:Part of the fourth wave of 2012-onwards ''Generations'' Legends Class toys, ''[[Thrilling 30]]'' Megatron is roughly the same size as a ''[[Cyberverse (toyline)|Cyberverse]]'' Commander Class toy. He transforms from a generic tank with rotating turret into a robot based on his [[Alex Milne]] pre-war design as seen in "[[Chaos Theory Part 1]]" from [[IDW Publishing|IDW]]'s 2009-2011 ''[[The Transformers (IDW)|The Transformers]]'' comic series, and features [[5 mm post|5 mm-compatible]] ports for his hands and left forearm/turret roof.

:He comes with [[Chop Shop (G1)#Generations|Chop Shop]], who can transform into a stag beetle, a robot, a weapon with a 5 mm handle, and a mine plow that attaches to the front of Megatron's tank mode. He features gearing that opens his pinchers when his legs are moved.

:This mold also served as the model for the non-toy ''[[Beast Wars: Uprising]]'' incarnation of [[Megatron (BW)#Beast Wars: Uprising|Megatron]] and was retooled into ''Generations [[Combiner Wars (toyline)|Combiner Wars]]'' Legends Class [[Warpath (G1) #Combiner Wars|Warpath]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/2013/Decepticon/GenLegMegatron/megatron.htm More information on ''Generations'' Legends Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|T30Deluxe}}{{anchor|Deluxe}}
[[File:Generations IDW megatron.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|And the fandom collectively soiled itself.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Deluxe Class, 2013)
**''Series / Number'': '''02 / #003'''
**''Accessories'': 2 wingtips (combine to form Fusion Cannon)
{{toydesigner|[[Joe Kyde]] (Hasbro)|[[Don Figueroa]] (concept artist, uncredited)}}

:Part of the fifth wave of 2012-onwards ''Generations'' Deluxe Class toys, ''Thrilling 30'' Megatron is based on [[Don Figueroa]]'s stealth bomber design from the IDW Publishing [[Heart Like a Wheel|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] ongoing series (which resembles a Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit). In robot mode, his wingtips detach to combine and transform into his [[Fusion cannon#Deluxe|fusion cannon]] (although it's actually designed after the [[rail gun]] this body was equipped with in IDW's comics, but of course Hasbro couldn't call it ''that'' on a toy's packaging). The cannon can peg into 5mm ports on his hands and forearms. This design was actually taken from an official pitch without Figueroa's permission and with no compensation to the artist, a fact he was rather sore about.<ref>[http://www.seibertron.com/energonpub/don-figueroa-designed-idw-s-stealth-bomber-megatron-but-wasn-t-compensated--t96022s0.php "So I read that this was being made into a toy? wow, and I thought only 3rd party companies take stuff without giving any notice, acknowledgement or compensation... FYI: hasbro nor idw solicited me to do this design, I did it on my own."]</ref>

:In the American release Megatron comes packed in with a copy of IDW's ''[[Spotlight: Megatron]]'', sporting a 'Hasbro Exclusive Cover' cropped from the [[Clayton Crain]] [[:File:Spotlight Megatron cvrRI.jpg|retailer incentive cover]]. In European and Canadian markets the figure was released without the ''Spotlight''.

:He was redecoed into [[Megatron (G1)/toys#Nike|Calvin Johnson Megatron]] and retooled into ''Generations'' [[Dreadwing (G2)#Generations|Dreadwing]], ''[[Transformers Timelines (toyline)|Timelines]]'' [[Krok (G1)#Timelines|Krok]], and ''The Last Knight'' [[Megatron (Movie)/toys#TLKDeluxe|Megatron]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/2013/Decepticon/GenMegatron/megatron.htm More information on ''Thrilling 30'' Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|SDCC2013}}{{anchor|SDCCMetroplex}}
*'''Metroplex''' (Titan Class, 2013)
**'''01 OF 30'''
:An [[exclusive]] version of Titan Class [[Metroplex (G1)#SDCC2013|Metroplex]] was made available at [[San Diego Comic-Con]] 2013. He comes with 12 [[Slug figure|small, non-transforming figurines]] of [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#SDCC2013|Orion Pax]], Megatron, [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys#SDCC2013|Bumblebee]], [[Thundercracker (G1)/toys#Thrilling 30|Thundercracker]], [[Trailbreaker (G1)/toys#SDCC2013|Trailcutter]], and [[Hoist (G1)/toys#Thrilling 30|Hoist]], all in both modes. The figurines are based on their ''Thrilling 30'' Deluxe Class toys, and similarly to [[Decoy]]s, the Autobot figurines are cast in red plastic, and the Decepticons in purple.

{{-}}{{anchor|ACGHK2013}}{{anchor|HKACGCONMetroplex}}
[[File:Generationstoy-T30-Metroplex-Megatron-HKACGCON.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|I... can't... move...]]
*'''Metroplex''' (Titan Class, 2013)
**'''05 OF 30'''
:Another exclusive version of Titan Class [[Metroplex (G1)#ACGHK2013|Metroplex]] was made available at [[Animation-Comic-Game Hong Kong]] 2013. This Metroplex also has the 12 figurines of [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#ACGHK2013|Orion Pax]], Megatron, [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys#ACGHK2013|Bumblebee]], [[Thundercracker (G1)/toys#ACGHK2013|Thundercracker]], [[Trailbreaker (G1)/toys#ACGHK2013|Trailcutter]], and [[Hoist (G1)/toys#ACGHK2013|Hoist]], but casts the Autobot figurines in gold plastic, and the Decepticons in silver.
{{--}}

==''Generations'' (Japan)==
{{anchor|TG25}}{{anchor|VSOrionPax}}
[[File:TF-Generation-JP-TG25-Megatronus.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
*'''Orion Pax VS Megatronus''' ([[October 26]], [[2013]])
**''ID number'': '''TG-25'''
**''Accessories'': 2 wingtips (combine to form cannon)
:Released in the Japanese ''[[Transformers: Generations (Japan)|Generations]]'' lineup, Megatronus is a redeco of ''Thrilling 30'' Deluxe Class Megatron in a darker shade of black, replacing the previously purple parts with more black and rendering the translucent plastic cannon a shade of red. Megatronus features extensive paint details, including purple lining inside the grooves on his head, shoulders, and knees, silver paint on his legs and engines and red eyes. He was only available in a two-pack with [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#TG25|Orion Pax]].

:This toy is meant to depict Megatron as he was before the war broke out, hence the name, which originated as a pre-war name for [[Megatron (WFC)|Aligned continuity Megatron]].

{{-}}{{anchor|TG28}}{{anchor|MegatronStarscream2pack}}
[[File:TTGenerationsTG28MegatronChopShop.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|BURRITOOOS!!!!]]
*'''Megatron & Starscream''' ([[December 28]], 2013)
**''ID number:'' '''TG28'''
:The Japanese release of Legends Class Megatron is cast in his traditional gray, black, and red color scheme and features extensive metallic silver paint. He and [[Chop Shop (G1)#TG28|Chop Shop]] were only available in a multi-pack with [[Starscream (G1)/toys#TG28|Starscream]] and [[Waspinator (BW)/toys#TG28|Waspinator]].
{{--}}

==''Combiner Wars''==
{{anchor|Leader}}
[[File:LeaderMegatron2015.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.95|"What? No, of course I don't have an Autobot insignia! [[...And the Damage Done: Dark Cybertron Finale|Why would you think that?"]]]]
*'''Megatron''' (Leader Class, [[2015]])
**''Accessories'': Two guns (combine to form rifle), missile
{{toydesigner|[[John Warden]] (Hasbro)}}

:Part of the first wave of 2015 ''[[Combiner Wars (toyline)|Combiner Wars]]'' Leader Class toys, Megatron transforms from a robot heavily inspired by his Generation 1 animation model into a tank featuring working treads. He includes a sticker sheet featuring two each of Decepticon and Autobot [[insignia]] (the latter in reference to IDW's ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]''), plus stickers intended to replicate those on the original Megatron toy's chest and fusion cannon. Megatron also comes packaged with a collector's card featuring art from the initial release of the ''[[Transformers Legends (mobile game)|Transformers Legends]]'' mobile game. His box-back bio bears a superficial similarity to our wiki's article on [[Megatron (WFC)|another Megatron]]. He features a spark chamber hatch which is sculpted in likeness to the one seen in "[[Master Blaster]]". In a feature that goes undocumented in Megatron's instructions, his two combining guns can store underneath the rear of his alternate mode. Although the website description & the package billed the transformation as "15 steps", the toy actually has ''10'' steps. In keeping with that simplicity, his articulation is more limited than one might expect of a toy this size, with his restrictive knee articulation and lack of ankle joints making it tricky for him to stand in dynamic poses.

:In robot mode, Megatron's fusion cannon is on a pinned swivel, allowing it to be flipped in either direction, and appears to have been deliberately shaped to evoke the fusion cannon's traditional look no matter which way it faces. With the missile-firing tip backwards, the swivel piece allows the cannon to fold further out to the side, giving enough clearance for the arm to bend up to 90 degrees. In this configuration, the visible swivel piece matches the hexagonal detailing on the traditional cannon design, and a grooved dial sculpted into the cannon is slightly angled such that it perfectly matches the vertical position of the adjustment dial on the original scope/cannon. Of course, in that configuration Megatron can't shoot anyone with his missile, so where's the fun in that, you silly nerd?

:Select aspects of this design, such as the leg-mounted treads, the general transformation sequence and the tank alt-mode, were used to represent G1 Megatron in ''[[Transformers: Devastation]]''. The toy meanwhile was retooled into [[Megatron (Armada)/toys#Generations|''Armada'' Megatron]], which was released at the same time. This mold’s tank mode bears almost no specific resemblance to that Megatron’s original ''[[Transformers: Armada (toyline)|Armada]]'' toy, but in a concession to that character’s legacy, both versions of this mold feature ''Armada''-style [[Mini-Con]] connection ports; a rarity in any year of the ''Generations'' toyline.

::*[http://www.tfu.info/2015/Decepticon/CWMegatron/megatron.htm More information on ''Combiner Wars'' Megatron at TFU.info]

{{-}}{{anchor|SingaporeTRULeader}}
*'''Megatron''' (Lucky Draw Leader, [[2016]])
**''Accessories'': Two guns (combine to form rifle), missile
:Released as a contest prize for Toys R' Us Singapore, this ''Combiner Wars'' Leader Class Megatron is a redeco of the Leader Class toy above, featuring chrome (if by chrome, it means ''metallic'') silver and red paint on his paintable silver and red plastic parts (which includes neutering the light-up gimmick). The figure can be obtained by spending $600 worth of Transformers products only with their Star Card. The contest ran in March 1st till 31st.

{{-}}{{anchor|TFSS}}{{anchor|DoublePretender}}
[[File:TFSS-5.0-Double-Pretender-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|"[[Jason Marnocha|Fifty years I was alone... And when I'm finally saved from that loneliness, all I find is horror... In this form, I am powerless; doomed to witness these atrocities. I need a body...I WILL have a body!]]"]]
*'''Double Pretender Megatron''' (TFSS 5.0, 2017)
**''Accessories'': Pretender Shell, Sword for Pretender Shell, Rifle for Pretender Shell, [[Spacewarp#Generations|Spacewarp]] Mini-Con, Joint piece for Spacewarp/Rifle
:Released as a part of the [[Transformers Figure Subscription Service#2017|Figure Subscription Service 5.0]], Megatron is a redeco of his [[#Thrilling 30|Legends Class toy]], with his coloration based on his canceled ''Generation 2'' [[Megatron (G1)/toys#CombatHero|"arctic-camo" Combat Hero Megatron toy]]. He also comes with [[Spacewarp#Generations|Spacewarp]] (a redeco of [[Blast Master#Generations|''Thrilling 30'' Payload]]) and his Pretender shell, which is redecoed from [[Grand Maximus#Toys|Grand Maximus]]'s. Double Pretender Megatron also comes with a joint piece for Spacewarp to let her fit in the shell along with Megatron. This joint piece is sculpted to resemble the large chromed laser cannon that the original G1 Megatron toy came with. His Pretender shell weapons are black repaints of ''[[Titans Return (toyline)|Titans Return]]'' [[Sentinel Prime (G1)#Generations|Sentinel Prime]]'s rifle and Voyager Class [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#TRVoyager|Optimus Prime]]'s [[Laser Rod (weapon)#Generations|sword]].

:Megatron and Spacewarp were released alongside ''[[Transformers Timelines (toyline)|Timelines]]'' [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#TFSS|Double Pretender Optimus Prime]] and [[Hi-Q#Timelines|Hi-Q]].

:There are two suggested ways to make Megatron and Spacewarp fit into the shell, though some fans may have their own methods:
::1. Fiddle the Megatron figure into a different position, and insert the joint piece on his chest to allow Spacewarp to attach on it.<ref>{{citesocial|quote= How it all fits: https://t.co/pFFmXwkzpl|link=https://twitter.com/JesseWittenrich/status/857749521190801409|name=Jesse Wittenrich|site=Twitter|year=2017|month=04|day=28|(defunct=)}}</ref>
::2. If the joint piece doesn't work due to its tolerance, rearrange Megatron in a slightly different position, and peg Spacewarp into Megatron's arm.<ref>{{citesocial|quote= If that doesn't work for you, you can skip the accessory and peg Spacewarp to Megatron's arm. https://t.co/aogfRbvhfD|link=https://twitter.com/JesseWittenrich/status/857749905867251712|name=Jesse Wittenrich|site=Twitter|year=2017|month=04|day=28|(defunct=)}}</ref>
{{--}}

==''Cyber Series''==
[[File:Generations-Cyber-Battalion-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|He may have rocket launchers in his feet, but that doesn't mean he has mistletoe.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Cyber Battalion, 2015)
**''Accessories:'' Fusion cannon

:Part of the first wave of ''[[Transformers: Generations (toyline)#PrimeWarsTrilogyAsian|Generations: Cyber Series]]'' Cyber Battalion figures, Megatron is a Voyager-sized figure and transforms into a futuristic tank with a [[transformation|transformation scheme]] that borrows much of its engineering from the [[#Universe (2008)|''Universe'' G2 Legends Class Megatron]] from 2008 though does have some unique steps. His large fusion cannon can be held in his fist or mounted on his arm as any classic representation of Megatron would.

:The ''Cyber Series'' as a whole was initially pretty hard to come by. This figure along with the others was available in limited quantities from online retailer BigBadToyStore.com, though other than that they haven't hit mass retail anywhere besides Asia and Latin America. The line was later sold in greater quantities through [[Walgreens]] stores in parts of the United States.

{{-}}{{anchor|HeroesAndVillains}}
[[File:TF-Heroes-and-Villains-Optimus-Prime-Megatron-2-pack.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
*'''Optimus Prime and Megatron''' (2-pack, 2021)

:In 2021, the ''Cyber Series'' [[Optimus_Prime_(G1)/Generations_toys#Cyber_Series|Optimus Prime]] and Megatron figure were reissued as a 2-pack exclusive to Amazon.com.
{{--}}

==''Titans Return''==
[[File:TF-Generations-Titans-Return-Voyager-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Blitzwing who? I'm just a Megatron who happens to turn into a tank ''and'' a jet. All the cool [[Megatron (disambiguation)|Megatron]]s are doing it!]]
*'''Doomshot & Megatron''' (Voyager Class, [[2016]])
**''Accessories'': Fusion Cannon, Rifle, Doomshot Titan Master
{{toydesigner|[[John Warden]] (Hasbro)}}

:''[[Titans Return (toyline)|Titans Return]]'' Megatron transforms from robot to tank to plane and back. Megatron comes with [[Doomshot#Toys|Doomshot]], a [[Titan Master]] who becomes his head. The G1 toy-accurate 'scrollwork' details on his chest and all Decepticon insignias (on his robot mode chest, jet nosecone, and tank tread cowling) are chrome-backed, factory-applied, low-quality stickers which are notoriously prone to peeling off at the slightest disturbance. As their chrome-backed nature clashes heavily with Megatron's otherwise unpainted torso, replacing them is recommended. His wing stickers are similarly metallic, but appear to adhere better and clash less with the figure's overall aesthetic.

:The fusion cannon is shown in stock renders to be solid black, while the final one is light grey plastic dipped in black paint with the posts left bare. His dark-grey plastic is nowhere near as dark as the stock renders shows, though it is still darker than the light-grey plastic.

:Like all Voyager Class ''Titans Return'' figures, he has a pair of pop-up parts to fill in the area around his head; in this case, a pair of missile racks. While it initially looks like his chest does not contain a pivoting assembly for better range of movement on Megatron's neck, there is in fact one hidden under the grey parts that form his robot mode collar that allow the missile racks and the Titan Master port to turn in either direction.<ref name="neck">[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/titans-return-voyager-megatron-and-doomshot.1092333/page-18#post-14975031 Detailed look on TFW2005.com]</ref> Due to the nature of his transformation it is possible to transform Megatron into tank mode without removing his head, though this leaves it completely exposed at the back of the tank.

:His fusion cannon can plug into the short barrel of the tank turret or the rifle/Titan Master vehicle weapon. In an undocumented additional feature, the rifle can be inserted into the front end of the fusion cannon. The fusion cannon can be mounted on his forearm or held by any figure with 5mm hands. It also has a peg hole that an accessory such as his rifle can plug into, with extra square peg holes specifically to hold the rifle in place. The tank cannon on his turret, while held in ''very'' hard by a pair of ridges and a 5mm post, can also be removed; it can be pegged in by its 5mm post barrel onto a peghole in Megatron's shoulder to recreate G1 Megatron's classic shoulder barrel.

:The instructions for robot-to-tank transformation suggest that you move his robot mode chestplate downwards into the collapsed jet position. It appears to have a clearance issue, with the chest protruding too far; leaving it in robot mode position will ensure there are no clearance issues. However, the chest ''can'' be made to fit better by putting it into position before transforming the treads, preventing the tread panels from getting in the way. Also in some copies of the toy, Megatron's left and right leg panels will randomly pop and stick out. This is especially prominent in tank and jet mode.

:This mold was retooled into [[Blitzwing (G1)/toys#Titans Return|Blitzwing]], and redecoed into ''[[Transformers Legends (franchise)|Legends]]'' [[Megatron (G1)/toys#Legends|G2 Megatron]] and ''[[Street Fighter II × Transformers]]'' [[Megatron (G1)/toys#Street Fighter II × Transformers|Megatron]] <nowiki>[</nowiki>[[M. Bison#Toys|Vega]]<nowiki>]</nowiki>. Megatron would have been redecoed/retooled into [[Gutcruncher (G1)|Gutcruncher]] with a new Titan Master face for Doomshot as part of the "Action on Hydrus Four" boxset for BotCon 2017 that never came to be.
{{--}}

==''Platinum Edition''==
[[File:TF-Platinum-Edition-OsS-OsF-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|"An official Red Ryder carbine-action, two-hundred-shot range-model air rifle, with a compass in the stock and this thing that tells time."]]
*'''One Shall Stand, One Shall Fall''' (2-pack, 2016)
:Part of Hasbro's ''[[Transformers: Platinum Edition|Platinum Edition]]'' offerings for 2016 intended to commemorate the 30th anniversary of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'', this Megatron is another redeco of the ''Classics'' Voyager toy. Megatron features a new and significantly different deco for the sake of [[for safety reasons|gun safety laws]]. The sides of his gun mode are entirely cast in clear red plastic, his arms are a different shade of red plastic and there is red paint on the legs as well–in addition to the bright orange parts on both the tip of the barrel and the scope, just like the ''Classics'' figure. Whether by design or by accident, his deco strongly resembles the [[Toys"R"Us]] exclusive [[Nerf]] "[[wikia:nerf:Sonic FIRE|Sonic Fire]]" color scheme.

:''Platinum Edition'' Megatron was only available as part of a 2-pack with [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#PEOSSOSF|Optimus Prime]], named "One Shall Stand, One Shall Fall" after Prime's famous line in the movie. In the United States and Canada, this set was officially released as an [[Amazon (website)|Amazon]] exclusive. It was also available in several of Hasbro's Asian markets (namely the Philippines and Singapore; it's currently unknown whether it was exclusive to any particular stores there or not). In Australia, it was sold at Myer stores, whereas in the United Kingdom, it was both sold at [[Toys"R"Us]] stores and available via Tesco's website (but never found in stores). Surprisingly, it was (and still is) a common find in Brazilian online stores.

::*[http://www.tfu.info/2016/Decepticon/PlatinumMegatron/megatron.htm More information on ''Platinum Edition'' One Shall Stand, One Shall Fall Megatron at TFU.info]
{{--}}

==''Alt-Modes''==
[[File:Alt-Modes Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Starscream shall pay for this!]]
*'''Megatron''' (Alt-Modes, 2016)
**''Series'': '''1, 2'''
**''Collection'': '''1, 2, 3''' (Series 1), '''1''' (Series 2)

:''[[Alt-Modes]]'' Megatron is a super deformed toy whose body transforms into a tank when the Decepticon faction symbol on his head is flipped. He was [[Blindpacking|blind-boxed]] and available in all four cases of the first and second series.
{{--}}

==''War for Cybertron: Siege''==
[[File:WFCS-Voyager-Megatron.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|[[Ironhide (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron: Siege|Such heroic nonsense.]]]]
*'''Megatron''' (Voyager Class, [[2019]])
**''Hasbro ID number:'' '''WFC-S12'''
**''TakaraTomy ID number'': '''SG-13'''
**''TakaraTomy release date'': '''[[March 30]], [[2019]]'''
**''Hidden message code'': '''KAON'''
**''Accessories:'' "D50-R35 Fusion Cannon", "HPR Telescopic Laserstrike Launcher" (combines to form "NFM Particle Beam Megalauncher")
{{toydesigner|[[Aaron Gray]] (Hasbro)|[[AJ Piejko-Brown]] (packaging)}}

:''[[War for Cybertron: Siege|Siege]]'' Megatron transforms from a G1 cartoon-esque robot to a <s>Grizzly battle tank from the ''Command & Conquer'' series</s> Cybertronian tank and back! Megatron's robot mode is pretty accurate to the original cartoon, despite having a completely different altmode. He is armed with 2 weapons compatible with the [[C.O.M.B.A.T. System]], one of which is his trademark [[fusion cannon]] called the "D50-R35 Fusion Cannon". The other is the "HPR Telescopic Laserstrike Launcher," with two symmetrical blades facing the opposite direction, and can transform into a large sword resembling the sword included in the Takara release of the [[Megatron (G1)/toys#Generation 1|original Generation 1 toy]] and can be stored on his back. It can also be mounted on his back to resemble the gun barrel on the original cartoon model's back. Both can combine into the insanely large "NFM Particle Beam Megalauncher," which is meant to be held in his hands or over his head. Like his contemporaries in the ''Siege'' toyline, Megatron features 'battle damage' paint applications all over his head, chest, arms, and legs.

:Due to the way Megatron transforms, it's possible to rotate the turret 180 degrees and use the fusion cannon solely as the tank barrel, in the event one should lose the "Laserstrike Launcher" accessory; while not as aesthetically pleasing as the intended transformation, it still works.

:Megatron also suffers a slight design flaw: unlike with the left ankle, the right ankle's pivoting joint has a tendency to not lock back to its straight position once it is unlocked. The only way to amend this is by pressing the top end of the black plastic peg on the right foot. The light grey backpack/central front tank kibble also has a tendency to dislodge if his waist is moved left or right. Due to the Fusion Cannon's slightly longer post, the hand's dorsal panel slightly protrudes when in tank mode.

:There is a message written in [[Cybertronian language|Cybertronian letters]] on Megatron's box art, which reads "RISE FROM THE SHADOWS". Megatron's pose in the instruction manual's front cover is based on the [[:File:Megatronguido.jpg|promotional artwork]] by [[Guido Guidi]].

:Amusingly, the first TakaraTomy (and later, Hasbro's secondary) stock photos of his robot mode depict him wielding the fusion cannon like a handheld weapon.

:Megatron was a notorious shelfwarmer, particularly in Asia, often unsold in large numbers.

:This mold was redecoed and retooled into multiple different Megatrons below, and [[Megatron (SG)#Shattered Glass Collection|Shattered Glass Megatron]].
{{WFCSiegeMegatronMold}}

{{-}}{{anchor|S66}}
[[File:TF-Generations-WFC-S-35th-Voyager-Classic-Animation-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|"I thought you're made of sterner stuff, [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#Walmart35thVoyager|Optimus."]]]]
*'''Classic Animation Megatron''' (Voyager Class, 2019)
**''ID number:'' '''WFC-S66'''
**''Accessories:'' "D50-R35 Fusion Cannon," "HPR Telescopic Laserstrike Launcher" (combines to form "NFM Particle Beam Megalauncher")
{{toydesigner|[[Mark Maher]] (deco artist)}}

:Specially branded for the 35th anniversary of the ''Transformers'' brand, ''Siege'' "Classic Animation Megatron" is a redeco of the Voyager figure above, featuring a cel-shaded paint pattern that evokes his appearance in the cartoon (though the physical result is reminiscent of [[Transformers: Devastation|''Devastation'']]). In addition, the figure omits the paint on the shoulders and his launcher/sword, and the front tank tread panels are now grey.

:Secondary stock photos of the robot mode still depicts his Fusion Cannon as a handheld weapon.

:Alongside fellow cel-shaded figure [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#S65|Optimus]], Megatron was exclusive to [[Walmart]] in Canada and the United States.
{{--}}

==''War for Cybertron Trilogy''==
[[File:TF-Netflix-WFC-Trilogy-Voyager-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|1,000,000 years and still functioning.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Voyager Class, [[2020]])
**''TakaraTomy ID number:'' '''WFC-07'''
**''TakaraTomy release date:'' [[December 19]], 2020
**''Accessories:'' "D50-R35 Fusion Cannon," "HPR Telescopic Laserstrike Launcher" (combines to form "NFM Particle Beam Megalauncher"), Pinpointer [[Battle Master]], Lionizer Battle Master, 3 [[Fire Blast effect]]s
{{toydesigner|[[AJ Piejko-Brown]] (packaging)}}

:Promoting the ''Siege'' chapter of the [[Netflix]] [[Transformers: War for Cybertron Trilogy (cartoon)|''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' cartoon]], this ''[[War for Cybertron Trilogy (toyline)|War for Cybertron Trilogy]]'' redeco of ''Siege'' Megatron slathers the Decepticon leader in an ''extensive'' paint wash coating to represent accumulated grime and battle scars. Aside from the mold's usual weapons, Megatron comes with redecos of ''Siege'' Firedrive into "[[Pinpointer (G1)#Generations|Captive Pinpointer]]" and "[[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Lionizer]]" with the original orange-and-grey color scheme, both with their own respective blast effects. Battle damage aside, Megatron's grey plastic is molded in a darker shade and his black plastic lacks any hints of brown. He also features metallic silver across his front on the silver sections, serving as a base for the battle damage. This Megatron features tighter ankle joints and a weakened snap, allowing for easier posing.

:The unpaintable metallic plastic parts, such as the sword's blades, the upper thighs, and the joints, are prone to [[photodegradation]].

:As with other Netflix series figures, Megatron was exclusive to Walmart in Canada and the United States. Megatron was also available as a Kmart exclusive in Australia.
{{WFCSiegeMegatronMold}}

{{-}}{{anchor|E33}}
[[File:WarForCybertronCenturionDroneWeaponizerPack.jpeg|upright=1.66|thumb|Are you sure it's not an upside-down submarine?]]
*'''Deluxe Centurion Drone''' (Deluxe Class with accessories pack, 2020)
:An accessory of Megatron's Pistol form is available as part of the ''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' [[Centurion droid#Toys|Deluxe Centurion Drone Weaponizer Pack]]. It also comes with a silencer, but does not include the stock. In Japan, the toy was released as a [[TakaraTomy]] Mall exclusive for ''Earthrise''.<ref name="TT Twitter">{{citesocial|quote=＼フォロワー27 000人突破／新情報2つ目はアースライズシリーズ「センチュリオンドローン＆ウェポナイザー」発売決定しました！予約開始は少し先の予定ですが楽しみしてにお待ち下さい！ #トランスフォーマー #Transformers https://t.co/8DpFsjRCuP|link=https://twitter.com/TF_pr/status/1285098906422931456/|name=Transformers PR|site=Twitter|year=2020|month=07|day=20|(defunct=)}}</ref>

:It should be noted that this is the first ''Generations'' toy to depict his alt mode as a gun, albeit in a non-converting accessory form. It was soon followed by the ''Kingdom'' Core Class toy below.

{{-}}{{anchor|2021Netflix}}
[[File:TF-Netflix-WFC-Trilogy-Spoiler-Pack-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
*'''Spoiler Pack''' (Leader Unboxing, [[2021]])
**''Accessories:'' "D50-R35 Fusion Cannon," "HPR Telescopic Laserstrike Launcher" (combines to form "NFM Particle Beam Megalauncher"), [[Matrix of Leadership/toys#Spoiler|Matrix of Leadership]] bandolier, [[AllSpark#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Allspark]], two Fire Blast effects, [[Play-Doh|compound]]
:Promoting the ''Kingdom'' chapter of the Netflix ''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' cartoon, Megatron is a minor redeco of the [[#War for Cybertron Trilogy|above]] Netflix ''Siege''-based Megatron, with blue highlights on the "HPR Telescopic Laserstrike Launcher" instead of red, and more accurate chest battle damage (albeit, to his appearance in the ''Siege'' and first half of ''Earthrise'' chapters). His silver paint is also a lighter shade while the other paint applications are a darker shade. The set includes the translucent purple "[[Skelivore#Toys|Fossilizer Skelivore]]", the [[Matrix of Leadership/toys#Spoiler|Matrix of Leadership]] on a bandolier, and a compound through which a buyer can dig to reveal two blue "Fire Blast" effects (redecoed from ''Earthrise'' [[Slitherfang#Toys|Slitherfang]] and [[Doublecrosser (Earthrise)#Toys|Doublecrosser]]'s effects parts) and the [[AllSpark#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Allspark]].

:The Matrix bandolier can latch onto his robot mode chest or his tank turret, and the Allspark is compatible with the 3 mm effects part system, featuring a 3 mm port on one face and a shallow 3 mm post of its own on the opposite side. Skelivore can use the C.O.M.B.A.T. System/[[F.O.S.S.I.L. Technology]] to weaponize Megatron, with two official configurations, and their head specifically evoking Megatron's classic [[energon mace]].

:Much like previous Spoiler Packs, this set is in a windowless box designed to look like an ammo crate and features translatable [[Cybertronian language|Ancient Autobot]] inside the box. The lateral side of the package also features artwork of Megatron, reused from the ''Kingdom'' [[:File:Kingdom Golden Disk Megatron returns to pits.jpg|Wave 2 Golden Disk card]]. Compared to the previous [[Nemesis Prime (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Spoiler Pack]], the packaging itself uses less cardboard and tape and has two Decepticon-themed quotes as opposed to one Autobot and one Decepticon. The "spoiler" text reads "WITH THE MATRIX IN HAND / I CAN WIN THE ALLSPARK / AND USE IT TO RESHAPE / CYBERTRON IN MY IMAGE" and "TAKE THE MATRIX / MEGATRON THEN THE / ALLSPARK MAY IT HAVE / MERCY ON YOU", quotes from Megatron and Optimus Prime respectively from [[Kingdom episode 4|''Kingdom'' episode 4]], though Megatron's quote in the cartoon lacks "With the Matrix in hand".

:Megatron's renders in the instructions feature the battle damage from the first [[#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Netflix ''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' toy]], as opposed to the battle damage on this release. Also, the image showing the completely assembled second official weaponizer configuration in the instructions depicts the included effect parts being plugged onto the ends of the back-mounted cannons to simulate muzzle-flash effects; however, this configuration is impossible with the selected effect part mold types that were included with this set.

:As with other Netflix-series figures, this Spoiler Pack was exclusive to Walmart in Canada and the United States. This set was also available as a Kmart exclusive in Australia and was on [[Hasbro Pulse]] in the US and the UK in limited quantities.
{{WFCSiegeMegatronMold}}

==''War for Cybertron: Earthrise''==
[[File:TF-Generations-WFC-E-Voyager-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|What, were you expecting a [[Sixshot (G1)#toys|submarine]]]]
*'''Megatron''' (Voyager Class, 2020)
**''Hasbro ID number:'' '''WFC-E38'''
**''TakaraTomy ID number:'' '''ER-13'''
**''TakaraTomy release date:'' [[January 30]], [[2021]]
**''Accessories:'' Fusion Cannon, tank turret/bladed weapon, tank-filler part/shield
:Released as part of the third and final wave of ''[[War for Cybertron: Earthrise|Earthrise]]'' Voyager Class toys, Megatron is a heavy retool of ''Siege'' Megatron that converts into an Earth-based tank (particularly resembling an M1A2 Abrams) while sharing a mostly identical transformation scheme (and parts, such as the thighs, feet, front of the upper arms, forearms, and various inner parts). Megatron also retains the "battle damage" paint his ''Siege'' figure featured, mostly focused around his legs and tank body. Unlike the stock render, the rear half of Megatron's shoulders are molded in black plastic. Megatron also features a "D-16" marking on the left side of his tank body, referencing his Japanese ID number.

:Like the ''Siege'' figure, Megatron's turret also doubles as a melee weapon, though it must be forearm mounted in order to use the blade. The blade can be a shield if paired with the sword from the ''Siege'' toy above. To try and reduce his alternate mode's resemblance to an H-tank, he has a [[Partformer|partforming]] piece that is attached between his shins, or onto the bladed weapon. Stock photography for the above ''Generations Selects'' redeco shows the melee weapon can plug into his back as a back-mounted cannon, much like his "G1" cartoon design, and the filler part can be a forearm-mounted shield.

:The new tooling to keep his head/neck flap more secure can make pulling his head out while transforming him to robot mode ''very'' difficult; the strain of doing so can cause the ball joint socket to crack, and form stress marks on his cheeks. This can be remedied by pushing the flap up from beneath using the filler/shield piece tabs.

:The unpaintable plastic parts, such as the thighs and the joints, are prone to [[photodegradation]].

:Like all ''Earthrise'' toys, Megatron comes with an exclusive piece of a clip-and-save of a larger star map, along with a translucent red decoder. Megatron's piece of the map, aptly, is the labeled location of "[[Cybertron (planet)|CYBERTRON]]".

:The [[energon mace]] accessory was sold separately as part of the ''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' [[Centurion droid#Toys|Deluxe Centurion Drone]] set above. The mace is intended for ''Earthrise'' Megatron's newly molded hands, so keep caution for a breakage risk if used on ''Siege'' Megatron.
{{WFCSiegeMegatronMold}}
{{--}}

==''Generations Selects''==
{{anchor|GS01}}
[[File:Selects-Voyager-CombatMegatron.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|After many years, unobtainium has finally become obtainable.]]
*'''Combat Megatron''' (Voyager Class, [[2019]])
**''Series'': '''''War for Cybertron: Siege'''''
**''ID number:'' '''WFC-GS01'''
**''Accessories:'' "D50-R35 Fusion Cannon," "HPR Telescopic Laserstrike Launcher" (combines to form "NFM Particle Beam Megalauncher")
{{toydesigner|[[Hirofumi Ichikawa]] (detailing), [[Mark Maher]] (deco artist)|[[AJ Piejko-Brown]] (packaging)}}

:"Combat Megatron", a ''[[Generations Selects (toyline)|Generations Selects]]'' add-on to ''Siege'', is a redeco and new head retool of the above Voyager Class mold in the arctic camouflage deco of the unreleased ''Generation 2'' [[Megatron (G1)/toys#CombatHero|Combat Hero figure]]. The figure's new head is based on Megatron's initial "miner" appearance in [[IDW Publishing]]'s ''[[The Transformers: Megatron Origin|Megatron Origin]]'', drawing most heavily on [[Marcelo Matere]]'s covers for the series. (Coincidentally or not, the [[#TFSS|last Megatron toy]] based on the same unreleased deco ''also'' used tooling based on IDW Megatron's mining days.)

:Announced at New York [[Toy Fair 2019]], this Megatron was an exclusive debuted at the regular Voyager price through the [[Hasbro Pulse]] website in the U.S. market. Combat Megatron comes in a mostly plain cardboard box with black spray-paint deco in the form of a drippy Autobot symbol, "WAR" spelled out in Cybertronian, and the "War for Cybertron Trilogy" nameplate. While the instructions replaced the ID number and Megatron's name with "Combat Megatron", the CGI renders still depict the original head. Also included is a thank you letter from Hasbro's [[John Warden]].

:Despite being the third ''Generations Selects'' figure to be announced, Combat Megatron came out ahead of [[Ricochet (Headmasters)#Generations|Ricochet]] and [[Swoop (G1)/toys#POTPGS|Red Swoop]].

:This toy was repurposed as [[White Megatron]] in ''[[Generations Selects Special Comic]]''.
{{WFCSiegeMegatronMold}}

{{-}}{{anchor|SuperMegatron}}
[[File:TF-Selects-Super-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|"Why do [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys#Future|you]] throw your turn away so recklessly?"]]
*'''Super Megatron''' ([[September 26]], [[2020]])
**''Hasbro ID number:'' '''TT-GS09'''
**''Accessories:'' Fusion Cannon/starship nose/tank turret, triple-barrelled cannon
{{toydesigner|[[Ban Magami]] (concept artist)}}

:''[[Generations Selects (toyline)|Generations Selects]]'' Super Megatron is an extensive retool of [[Galvatron (G1)/toys#Titans Return|''Titans Return'' Voyager Class Galvatron]], with the Titan Master gimmick being removed. The figure is based upon illustrations by [[Ban Magami]] for [[:File:SuperAndUltraMegatron.jpg|Super Megatron and Ultra Megatron]] from ''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: The Battlestars (story page)|The Battlestars]]'' story pages, and is capable of assuming the two robot modes and two alternate modes featured therein; the figure is very faithful to the much older art because Magami created the character designs with a working transformation in mind.<ref>[https://tfsource.com/blog/2020/04/03/countdown-answering-5-big-questions-about-the-generations-selects-super-megatron/ COUNTDOWN: Answering 5 big questions about the Generations Selects Super Megatron at TFSource]</ref> Although not officially a part of the [[War for Cybertron Trilogy (toyline)|''War for Cybertron'']] toyline, he has a grand total of 19(!) [[5 mm post|5 mm ports]] distributed throughout his new tooling, making him more than compatible with the [[C.O.M.B.A.T. System]].

:Being faithful to the illustrations it is based upon, the figure has both a "Super Jet Mode" and a triple-barreled "Ultra Tank Mode". The figure comes with his signature fusion cannon, which forms the nose of his gunship mode and the turret of his tank mode. He also has a triple-barreled cannon, which is stored inside the fusion cannon, and can be accessed by unfolding the front of the cannon and opening it up from the bottom. The triple-barreled cannon is detachable from the fusion cannon, and can be wielded by Super Megatron as a handheld weapon if you so choose.

:As mentioned before, the figure also has two robot modes to represent Super Megatron and his upgraded '''Ultra Megatron''' form, which differ in forehead and chest detailing. In service to this, Super Megatron's forehead and chest can be swapped around between his two robot modes. The two robot modes are also distinguished by weapon configuration (the fusion cannon being closed for Super Megatron and open for Ultra Megatron, and Ultra Megatron also featuring the triple-barrelled cannon mounted on his right shoulder) and gunship mode wing arrangement (folded for Super Megatron and unfolded for Ultra Megatron).

:Original to the figure and its [[Super Megatron comic 2|accompanying fiction]], a third robot mode was also designed and given the name '''Ultra Megatron Omega''', formed by taking the figure in its Ultra Megatron robot mode and swapping its face out for a more monstrous one. This new face appears to be an amalgam taking cues from both his [[Megatron (Movie)|live-action film counterpart]]'s mask in ''The Last Knight'', as well as the face of [[Dark Nova]]. If one so wishes, he can take the [[Silver Matrix]] accessory included with [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#Selects|''Generations Selects'' Star Convoy]] and plug it into this figure's left shoulder to replicate [[:File:Ultra Megatron Omega Selects.jpg|his initial appearance]] upon transforming into this form.

:The ''Selects'' [[God Neptune comic 2|Special Comic promoting God Neptune]] further introduces a ''fourth'' robot mode, '''[[:File:Megatron Omega Perfect Selects.jpg|Megatron Omega: Perfect Form]]''', into which the figure can also be configured. To achieve this, his shoulder pads must be folded back, with the smaller wing pieces angled up at a 45° angle; his chest piece with the insignia, folded forward to partially reveal the tread details; his back wings folded down at a 45° angle; and his Fusion Cannon/triple-barreled cannon should be in tank mode configuration, tabbed into the port on his upper-back, with the triple-barrels facing straight up. His Fusion Cannon barrel halves should then be angled up at 45° angles, to create an "X-wing" shape behind him.

:The aforementioned God Neptune chapter also depicts a third alternate mode for Ultra Megatron Omega, an "[[:File:GS-Ultra-Megatron-Omega-SF-Gun-Turret--Mode.jpg|SF Gun Turret Mode]]". To achieve this mode, Megatron must first be placed into his Super Jet Mode, from there the subsequent steps can be taken in any order. With his waist kept in the same configuration, his legs must be rotated at the thigh, then folded up alongside his torso; his arms must be folded straight down, with the forearms folded forward, so that the figure is now resting on both them and the tank treads on his legs; the chestplate must then be lowered slightly, so that the treads touch the ground; his larger wings should be folded up into the tank mode configuration; and his smaller wings should be folded straight back.

:A feature not mentioned in the instructions is that the lower part of his helmet is attached via a [[C joint]] on the neck, and can be removed to allow easier access to the forehead and face-swapping gimmick. This is particularly helpful, as otherwise there isn't much clearance for it to turn, and the swivel is fairly tight.

:Contrary to popular belief, this figure ''is'' in scale with ''Selects'' [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#Generations Selects|Star Convoy]].

:This toy was released exclusively through [[TakaraTomy Mall]] in Japan and an EB Games exclusive in Australia.

{{-}}{{anchor|GS14}}
[[File:TF-Generations-Selects-Voyager-G2-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Voice of Doom sadly not included.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Voyager Class, 2020)
**''Series'': '''''War for Cybertron: Earthrise'''''
**''ID number:'' '''WFC-GS14'''
**''Accessories:'' Fusion Cannon, tank turret/spear, tank-filler part/shield
:A ''[[Generations Selects (toyline)|Selects]]'' add-on to ''[[War for Cybertron: Earthrise|Earthrise]]'', this version of Megatron is a redeco of the ''Earthrise'' Voyager Class mold above in the first ''Generation 2'' toy-themed colors.

:Much like most 2020 ''Selects'' products, the toy is only branded as part of the ''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' and not ''Earthrise''.
{{WFCSiegeMegatronMold}}
{{-}}

[[File:Behold Galvatron Megatron.JPG|thumb|200px]]{{anchor|Behold}}
* '''Behold, Galvatron! Unicron Companion Pack''' (Leader Class, 2022)
:This release of Megatron is as a non-transforming and immobile [[Slug figure|minifigure]], barely 10mm tall, scaled to interact with the immense [[Unicron/toys#War for Cybertron Trilogy|''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' Unicron]] figure and its clear display base. This was one of a set of 14 minifigures in the "Unicron Companion Pack" that was included with the [[Galvatron (G1)/toys#BeholdGalvatron|"reformatting" version of Galvatron]]. The set was [[exclusive]] to [[Hasbro Pulse]].
{{--}}

==''War for Cybertron: Kingdom''==
[[File:WFC-Kingdom Core Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Add in a 5mm peg, and you can have Megatron holding Megatron holding Megatron.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Core Class, [[2021]])
**''Hasbro ID number'': '''WFC-K13'''
**''TakaraTomy ID number'': '''KD EX-06'''
**''TakaraTomy release date'': [[July 31]], 2021
**''Accessories:'' Blaster/Tank Barrel
{{toydesigner|[[Evan Brooks]] (Hasbro), [[Takio Ejima]] (TakaraTomy)|[[Mark Maher]] (deco artist)}}<ref>[https://youtu.be/PdsHMGVDZFg?si=7IIIhq2AU8jwMnSx Interview] with [[Hasbro]] designer [[Evan Brooks]] on the Triple Takeover podcast, from their YouTube channel</ref>

:''[[War for Cybertron: Kingdom|Kingdom]]'' Core Class Megatron is a Legends-sized toy that can interact with Titan Class figures. He takes many cues from his larger ''Earthrise'' toy sculpt-wise, with similar robot and Earth-based tank forms... save for the head, which seems to be based on his ''Masterpiece'' figure. His tank mode lacks any kind of rolling wheels.

:Megatron features his trademark Fusion Cannon, attached with a mushroom joint. He includes a blaster resembling his original pistol alternate mode which forms his (rather unconvincing) tank mode's barrel and has a stacked peg with 3-millimeter and 5-millimeter portions for compatibility with other Core figures as well as larger size classes. As shown in the instructions, but not specifically pointed out as such, the gun can plug into his back to replicate the gun barrel from the G1 figure. Due to the right forearm needing two pieces for the transformation, Megatron ends up having two asymmetrical forearm parts.

:Megatron suffers from a mildly annoying issue regarding his shoulder joints; the hook tabs can barely lock into place, and they can be dislodged if his arms are bent back in robot mode. Fortunately, the shoulder ball-and-socket joints are loose enough (though not to a greater extent) to counter this.
{{--}}

==''Premium Finish''==
[[File:TF-Premium-Finish-PF-WFC-02-Megatron.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|"Why [[#War_for_Cybertron Trilogy|throw]] [[#War_for_Cybertron:_Siege|away]] away your money so recklessly?"]]
*'''Megatron''' (Voyager Class, [[November 27]], 2021)
**''ID number'': '''PF WFC-02'''
**''Hasbro ID number'': '''GE-02'''
**''Accessories'': "D50-R35 Fusion Cannon", "HPR Telescopic Laserstrike Launcher" (combines to form "NFM Particle Beam Megalauncher")
:As part of the second wave of TakaraTomy's ''[[Transformers Premium Finish|''Premium Finish'']]'' subline, Megatron is a detailed redeco of the [[#War_for_Cybertron:_Siege|''Siege'']] mold, featuring more paint applications that represent his appearance in [[Transformers: War for Cybertron Trilogy (cartoon)|''Transformers: War for Cybertron: Siege'']] and with the same weapons as the aforementioned mold. The stock photo samples have paint on his [[unpaintable plastic]] thighs and joints, which is absent on the final product.

:For some reason, the stock photos depict his shoulders sitting a bit too low, due to them not being fully inserted to the joint.
{{WFCSiegeMegatronMold}}
{{-}}

==''Collaborative''==
[[File:Collab-toy-Megatron-HISS-Tank.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Megatron opted for the lady because [[Cobra Commander|her boss]] reminds him too much of Starscream [[Chris Latta|for some reason]]...]]
*'''Megatron H.I.S.S. Tank and Baroness''' ([[2022]])
**''Accessories'': [[Baroness#Collaborative|Baroness]], backpack, rifle, battle stand, fusion cannon, 2x turret guns, HISS tank rear panel/shield
{{toydesigner|[[Evan Brooks]] (Hasbro), [[Shuhei Umezu]] (TakaraTomy)|[[Mario Carreiro]] (packaging)<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dfy3IcQd3g4 The Hasbro ''Transformers'' Panel] at [[San Diego Comic-Con#2024|San Diego Comic-Con 2024]] with [[Mario Carreiro]], [[John Warden]], [[Evan Brooks]] and [[Nate Purswell]], recorded at the "Memo's Collection" YouTube channel.</ref>}}

:The tenth figure released in the ''[[Transformers Collaborative|Collaborative]]'' line, "Megatron H.I.S.S. Tank" transforms from an almost 100% accurate [[Cobra]] signature original [[H.I.S.S. tank|H.I.S.S. tank]] into a roughly Commander Class-sized Megatron. He comes with his traditional fusion cannon accessory and has a swiveling twin turret backpack, whose guns can be lowered down to tilt over Megatron's head or turn left or right. Both turret guns are attached via 5mm pegs and features pegs for [[Fire Blast effect|fire blast effects]]. Megatron's fusion cannon can either mount atop his H.I.S.S. form's turret platform or on the outside of either fist.

:His hips are ratchet joints, but the rest are all simple friction joints, including his lateral thigh swivels, which when combined with the weight of half the vehicle mode hanging off his back means that he's prone to tipping over in certain poses. Megatron's sizeable heel spurs do a lot to alleviate the problem, thankfully. The back plating and rear guard of the H.I.S.S. detaches to form a shield. The back of his fusion cannon is severely truncated to clear the H.I.S.S. parts on his shoulders or the turret gunner in vehicle mode, which looks more than a little silly. Said cannon and shield both attach via fairly shallow 5mm pegs. Due to packaging constraints, most of the H.I.S.S. tank is detached from Megatron in the box, with only the treads and lower part of the cockpit built into the main figure. Megatron is also a considerably warmer gray than depicted in his stock renders.

:The set also includes a new recreated original 3.75" [[Baroness]] figure, with recreations of her accessories as well as a battle stand, who can ride in Megatron's H.I.S.S. mode cockpit or man his turret guns. Rather impressively, Megatron can be transformed entirely without removing the figure from the turret, though the same can't be said for the one in the cockpit.

:Although originally set to release in January 2023, Megatron and The Baroness were spotted at a [[Toys"R"Us]] in [[Taiwan]] in late [[June]] 2022 and was released more widely via online outlets starting in [[October]] of that year.

:This toy also doubles as the independent ''[[Transformers Roleplaying Game]]'' character [[Fusion (RPG)|Fusion]].
{{-}}

==''Legacy''==
[[File:TF-Legacy-Core-Class-G2-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|A worthy opponent for [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Universe (2003)|this guy.]]]]
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-d2|'''G2 Universe Megatron''' (Core Class, [[2022]])}}</ul>
:*''Accessories'': Blaster/tank barrel

: Part of the second wave of ''[[Transformers: Legacy|Legacy]]'' Core Class toys, "G2 Universe Megatron" is a [[redeco]] of [[#War for Cybertron: Kingdom|''Kingdom'' Core Class Megatron]] in the colors of his ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (franchise)|Generation 2]]'' [[Megatron (G1)/toys#Generation 2|tank incarnation]], and serves as a scaled-down version of the [[#GS14|''Generations Selects'' repaint]] of the Voyager Class ''Earthrise'' mold. Megatron includes the same blaster accessory as the original ''Kingdom'' toy, this time cast in green.

{{-}}{{anchor|RiseofTyranny}}
[[File:TF-Legacy-Miner-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Just a miner retool.]]
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-multi|'''Rise of Tyranny 2-Pack''' (2-pack, 2023) }}</ul>
:*''Accessories'': Drill, drill attachment, pickaxe, handle
{{toydesigner|[[Evan Brooks]] (Hasbro), [[Koki Yamada]] (TakaraTomy)}}<ref>[[May 16]], [[2023]]'s [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPFnqhvXhTs Hasbro Pulse Transformers Fanstream] on YouTube, with [[Evan Brooks]], [[Ben MacCrae]], and [[Sixo]].</ref>

: Revealed during the [[May 16]]th, 2023 Transformers Fanstream, ''[[Transformers: Legacy|Legacy: Evolution]]'' "Miner Megatron" is a retool of the ''Siege'' mold to match his younger appearance in the [[2005 IDW continuity]], with a new chest, shoulders, hazard stripes and an [[Alex Milne]]-inspired head. Oddly, this newly molded head is a completely different mold from the ''Generations Selects'' Combat Megatron toy's head, which was also inspired by Megatron's miner design. While his helmet has details from ''[[The Transformers: Megatron Origin|Megatron Origin]]'', the color scheme and molding changes reference his appearance in ''[[Chaos Theory Part 1|Chaos Theory]]'' and ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]''. He includes a new pickaxe, drill, and drill mount rather than his fusion cannon and sword. He is capable of attaching the pickaxe head between the drill and mount to create a crossbow-like weapon through Evo-Fusion.

: Some copies of the figure have been reported to have their inner knee joints misassembled—the circular detail above the screw should be towards the back instead of the front. One way to remedy this is to unscrew the knees, pop the pin in the thigh and swap the knee joint. This also has been reported to (somewhat) improve the joint's looseness.<ref>[https://twitter.com/shihshihming1/status/1677047933429239808 @ShihShihMing1's tweet showcasing the issue], 6 July 2023</ref>

: He is included in a "Cybertronian Origins" two-pack with [[Ratbat (G1)/toys#Legacy|Senator Ratbat]].

: Amazon mistakenly mixed up the product IDs for the Rise of Tyranny and Humble Origins two-packs; as a result, customers who pre-ordered this set were actually sent [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#HumbleOrigins|Data Clerk Orion Pax]] and [[Shockwave (G1)/toys#HumbleOrigins|Senator Shockwave]]. This was corrected a few days after the pre-orders started arriving; customers who purchase this set now will receive what they ordered.

::''[https://www.instagram.com/p/CsUU9MpO8M9/ Designer commentary on Miner Megatron from Evan Brooks on Instagram]''
{{WFCSiegeMegatronMold}}
{{-}}

{{-}}{{anchor|FracturedFriendship}}
[[File:TF-Legacy-United-Fractured-Megatron.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2sq409UGtY "I'm Spartacus!"]]]
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-a1d1|'''Fractured Friendship 2-Pack''' (2-pack, [[2024]]) }}</ul>
:*''Accessories'': Drill, drill attachment, pickaxe, handle, energy sword, energon hammer

: ''[[Transformers: Legacy|Legacy: United]]'' "Gladiator Megatron" is a redeco of the ''Legacy: Evolution'' figure above, this time based specifically on his gladiator look from ''[[The Transformers: Megatron Origin|Megatron Origin]]''. He includes all of Miner Megatron's accessories, now recolored to match Gladiator Megatron's light gray color scheme, as well as a red energy sword and a pink energon hammer, both taken from his battle with [[Cy-Kill (G1)|Cy-Kill]] in [[Megatron Origin issue 2|issue #2]]. These weapons can peg into his shoulders for storage in robot mode, but unusually for a modern ''Transformers'' toys, there's nowhere for them to go while he's in vehicle mode.

: Gladiator Megatron is included in the "Fractured Friendship" 2-pack alongside the similarly IDW-inspired [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#FracturedFriendship|Security Officer Orion Pax]]. The two-pack was revealed by IGN on [[June 27]], 2024 as an exclusive for that year's [[San Diego Comic-Con]], with limited quantities to later be made available on [[Hasbro Pulse]]. The set was spotted at Chinese retail soon after its official reveal. <ref>[https://www.ign.com/articles/hasbro-sdcc-exclusive-figures-star-wars-marvel-transformers-gi-joe Hasbro SDCC 2024 exclusives reveal] - on IGN</ref>
{{--}}

==''Timelines'' (2025)==
[[File:ComicEditionHOSMegatron.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.66|[[Hearts_of_Steel#Alternate_modes|A figure worth giving away your firstborn child for.]]]]
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-a1d1|'''Timelines Bumblebee / Timelines Megatron''' ([[2025]])}}</ul>
:*''Accessories'': Fusion cannon
{{toydesigner|[[Evan Brooks]] (Hasbro), [[Guido Guidi]] (original concept, packaging artist)|[[Mario Carreiro]] (packaging)}}<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viJopRdWtZA ''Transformers'' panel] at [[Megacon Orlando#2025|Megacon Orlando 2025]] with [[Emily Bader]] and [[Evan Brooks]], recorded at the "V-man" YouTube channel.</ref>

: ''[[Transformers: Generations (toyline)#Timelines|Timelines]]'' Megatron is based on [[Guido Guidi]]'s unused design for the character in ''[[Hearts of Steel]]'', and transforms from a robot into a wheeled cannon. He comes packaged with [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys#Timelines (2025)|Bumblebee]].

: Due to his the size of his figure and the transformation scheme, Megatron lacks wrist swivels while otherwise having the typical range for a modern figure. His alternate mode has a few small gun barrels built into it, including two on the front between the wheels and a small turret mounted on top of the barrel of the cannon. Based on the proportions of the toy, the barrel on this small turret would be about the length of his original design's barrel extension if shrunk down for a human of the same scale.

: Several stock images of the figure show him holding the cannon in his hand. While this is possible, the intended mounting point is the 5mm port on his forearm.
{{--}}

==''Studio Series''==
[[File:TFTM-SS-Leader-Megatron.jpg|thumb|300px|As seen in ''The Transformers: The Movie: <s>A New Translation</s> The Special Edition Cut''.]]
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-d1|'''Megatron''' (Leader Class, 2025)}}</ul>
:*''Movie'': '''''The Transformers: The Movie'''''
:*''TakaraTomy ID number'': '''TS-12'''
:*''Accessories'': Fusion cannon, back barrel, Walther-inspired blaster, energy sword
{{toydesigner|[[Evan Brooks]] (Hasbro), [[Yūya Ōnishi]] (TakaraTomy)<ref>[[June 24]], [[2025]]'s [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uaPi02SMMSo Transformers Studio Series Fanstream | June 2025 | Hasbro Pulse] on YouTube, with [[Nate Purswell]] and [[Evan Brooks]].</ref>}}

:Released as part of the final wave of 2025 ''[[Studio Series]]'' Leader Class figures, Megatron stands the same size as the line's Commander Class [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generations toys#Studio Series|Optimus Prime]]. He transforms into his [[For safety reasons|by-now-expected]] tank mode similar to his ''[[Transformers: Devastation|Devastation]]'' counterpart, but with an unprecedentedly "clean" transformation that hides the tank treads fully inside the robot legs, leaving no backpack at all. The tank mode is based on the unproduced {{w|M8 Armored Gun System}} from (appropriately enough) the 1980s. In addition to his two-piece tank barrel, which splits into his signature fusion cannon and back-mounted barrel, Megatron comes with the energy sword he used in his duel with Prime in the film, as well as a blaster resembling his classic gun mode (but without the stock).

:The box photos show a close-up of Megatron's arm in a blue coloration to represent universal compatibility of the blaster accessory with other figures. Many fans misinterpreted this as a potential repaint tease, but this rumor was quickly quelled a month after his reveal.<ref>{{citesocial|quote= Ok, it is nothing, that’s all I’m gonna say, is it’s essentially – it was done by our team to just kind of show that any and all different characters can hold the Megatron blaster. So that’s all that is. It’s not a reference to anything – I’ve actually gotten some questions on if that’s supposed to be Safety Megatron or anything like that. I promise you it’s not, it was just our team trying to make that stand out to show that a different character can hold his blaster mode.|link= https://news.tfw2005.com/2025/08/01/sdcc-2025-hasbro-interview-age-of-the-primes-studio-series-haslabs-more-542176|name=Evan Brooks|site=TFW2005|title= SDCC 2025 Hasbro Interview – Age Of The Primes, Studio Series, Haslabs, More!year=2025|month=08|day=01}}</ref>

:Care should be taken when placing his sword into his hand. His thumb moves a considerable amount when placing it in, and could snap off easily if done repeatedly.

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Amazon exclusives]]
[[Category:Collaborative Decepticons]]
[[Category:Combiner Wars Decepticons]]
[[Category:Convention exclusives]]
[[Category:Generations]]
[[Category:Generations Selects toy Decepticons]]
[[Category:Legacy Decepticons]]
[[Category:Platinum Edition]]
[[Category:Pretenders]]
[[Category:SDCC exclusives]]
[[Category:TakaraTomy Mall exclusives]]
[[Category:Titans Return Decepticons]]
[[Category:Triple Changers]]
[[Category:War for Cybertron: Earthrise Decepticons]]
[[Category:War for Cybertron: Kingdom Decepticons]]
[[Category:War for Cybertron: Siege Decepticons]]

Transformers (2023) issue 23

2025-08-20T16:03:35Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #23
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 22
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 24
|image=Transformers 2023 23 Cover B.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[August 13]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=August 2025
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Jorge Corona]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''As his comrades make their last stand against the Decepticons, Optimus unexpectedly reunites with an old friend in the heart of the Matrix.'''

==Synopsis==
In the middle of the [[Pacific Ocean]], [[Shredhead]] reconstitutes from the shattered remains of the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]''' portal. After a brief moment to gather their bearings, Shredhead leaves to find [[Carly (G1)|Carly]].

Meanwhile, in the war-torn city of [[Chicago]], [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]], [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]], and [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] are fending off an assault from [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] as they try to get citizens from the city's north side to safety. Once that's been accomplished, Arcee advises that the [[Autobot]]s make some distance, knowing that the [[Decepticon]]s are after [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus]]' head. At the suggestion of [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]], Wheeljack has the Autobots relocate to the {{w|Adler Planetarium}}. [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] bears witness to all this from afar, and berates Starscream for ruining an ambush that's been in the works for a week when he returns to his leader's side. [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] confirms that the [[United States military]] forces defending the city have been successfully obliterated, and asks if they should continue slaughtering humans to break the Autobots' morale, but Megatron declines — the time has come for the Decepticons to move in, and for Optimus to learn his most important lesson...

Within the [[Matrix of Leadership]], Optimus wanders through the [[Hall of the Primes]] in search of wisdom. However, all he finds is an infestation of purple tendrils that latch onto him, causing his visions to re-emerge. He's quickly re-awoken by the unexpected appearance of [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparky]], who tells Optimus to transform and follow his lead.

[[File:TF2023 no. 23 - Autobots Vs Decepticons.jpg|left|thumb|250px]]
The Autobots' respite within the Adler Planetarium is interrupted by the beginning of the Decepticons' assault. With the end nigh, Wheeljack tells the still-comatose Optimus that he tried making him a new arm, but even if he somehow woke up, he's not sure it'd even work. [[Doctor Lio]] interrupts to allow the many refugees that've gathered in the Planetarium to pay their respects to their hero, and as people from the likes of [[Seattle]] and [[Tacoma]] say their pieces, Carly suddenly arrives with [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]. Magnus remarks that he'd wanted to be the kind of leader Optimus was ever since he first came to know of him, but despite being outwardly strong, he lacks the bravery and leadership skills needed. Nevertheless, he's prepared to die for Optimus' dream of a better world, and Magnus' words rally the other Autobots. And so, as [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] keeps watch from the back lines, the Autobots and Decepticons charge into battle.

In the Hall of the Primes, Optimus asks Sparky how long he'd been in there, but all he can recall is waking up and seeing Optimus being attacked right after. The tendrils latch onto Optimus again, triggering a memory of [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]]'s body lying dead aboard the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]''. Sparky remarks that the two's memories seem to be mixed-up as he makes a hard turn to de-entangle Optimus, replacing Optimus' memory with one of Sparky playing catch with a younger [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]]. Though Optimus is keen on seeing what the [[Thirteen|Primes]] have to show him, Sparky observes that whatever's infesting the Matrix has already claimed everything... except, that is, for a monument to Sparky himself, for reasons even the man himself can't explain.

With the Autobots' front line broken, Starscream disobeys Megatron and swoops in to eliminate Optimus, Spike, and Carly. Beachcomber flings himself in the way of Starscream's blasts, but despite reassuring Carly that he's fine, another shot from Starscream takes him down, seemingly for good...

Arriving at Sparky's monument, Optimus and Sparky open the doors to find Spike's body partway through a blue portal shaped like the Matrix's core. Optimus informs Sparky of his son's attempted sacrifice, a gesture that touches the old veteran. Sparky puts Spike's hand to his face, and as Optimus recalls the [[Jetfire (G1)|surrogate]] [[Ratchet (G1)|sons]] he's let down, Sparky muses on the nature of the Matrix's infection: whatever it is, it wants Optimus to surrender to nihilism and block the world around him, just as Sparky did, but it was thanks to Optimus' belief in a better world that Sparky was able to move past it all. To save both Optimus and his son, Sparky gently pushes Spike back through the portal, causing a wave of energy that dissipates the purple tendrils. As the world fades around them, Sparky makes Optimus promise to be there for his son, and Optimus says he'll do it with his entire being.

In the waking world, Starscream prepares to eliminate Carly and the still-comatose Optimus and Spike, only for Megatron to catch up with him and start beating him senseless, intending to do more to Optimus than give him a quick, violent end. Upon noticing the crowd of refugees, Megatron decides to dispose of them... only for Optimus to wake up and warn Megatron that they're under ''his'' protection. The Decepticons are prepared to engage, but Megatron orders them to stand down as he removes his [[fusion cannon]] — this battle is between him and Optimus. Megatron tosses his weapon aside, Optimus puts Carly and Spike on a nearby pile of rubble, and the two rivals' ultimate showdown begins...

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Shredhead]] (1)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (2)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (3)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (4)
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (7)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (8)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (13)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (14)
* [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (15)
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (16)
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (17)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (21)
* [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] (25)
* ''[[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]]'' (27)
* ''[[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]]'' (30)
* ''[[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]]'' (31)

|c2=
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (6)
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (9)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (10)
* [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] (22)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (23)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (24)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (26)

|c3=
* [[Chicago]] Residents (5)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (11)
* [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparky]] (12)
* [[Washington (state)|Washington]] Refugees (18)
* [[Doctor Lio]] (19)
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (20)

|h4=Others|c4=
* [[Maccadam|Alchemist Prime]] (28)
* [[Vector Prime]] (29)
}}

==Quotes==
"''Um''... Optimus Prime, sir? My sister was in Seattle. She was going to be crushed by a skyscraper. Until you stopped it. With your own body." 
"We were in Tacoma." 
"I thought we were going to die." 
"But you saved me." 
"You rescued us." 
"You rescued me."
:— Refugees from all over [[Washington (state)|Washington]], including '''Carly''', pay their respects to a comatose Optimus Prime.

"Ever since I knew of Optimus... I wanted to be just like him. But that was always impossible. I am strong on the outside. But on the inside... I don't know how to be strong. I don't know how to be a leader. I don't know how to be brave. But I know how to die. I can die for his dream of a better world for all of us. Including those who are small. '''We can all die!!!''' Protecting the one who has been strong for us, '''for so many years!!!''' For Optimus Prime."
:—'''Ultra Magnus''' rallies the Autobots as he reflects on his nature as a soldier.

"This infection... it wants to take you away from yourself. It wants you to give up. To put walls up. Just like I did. But I'm not that way anymore. Thanks to you, Optimus."
:—'''Sparky''' finds the Matrix's infection all too familiar.

"'''MEGATRON!!!''' These people. This planet. They are under '''my''' protection." 
"Megatron, stand clear! We shall ruin him--" 
"No. This is between me... and him." 
"One shall stand. '''ONE SHALL FALL!'''"
:—'''Megatron''' denies '''Starscream''''s aid as he and '''Optimus Prime''' prepare to duel.

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* As was noted [[Transformers (2023) issue 22|last issue]] by [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]], the Earth side of the ''Nemesis''' portal was blown to smithereens during the Autobots' and Decepticons' battle and scattered across the ocean floor, causing Shredhead's body to initially manifest in pieces before painfully recombining.
* When we see Arcee in the first few pages, her entire right arm, from the ''shoulder'' to her ''hand'', seems to have been reduced to its skeletal components, possibly from the earlier stages of the battle in Chicago in this issue, when they are helping civilians escape from the Decepticon onslaught.
* Megatron observes that the Decepticons have been quietly following the Autobots for a week, giving us a rough idea of how long the time gap between the end of last issue and the start of this one is. The time gap can also be observed through the Autobots, who were all largely intact last issue, but are now in varying states of disrepair after fending off Decepticon attacks for so long.
* Thanks to being an astral projection within the Matrix, Optimus is finally able to manifest his [[energon-axe|axe]] for the first time since [[Transformers (2023) issue 3|issue #3]], where his physical self's right arm was wrecked ''just'' as the axe made its debut.
* Sparky (or rather, his spirit) makes his first physical appearance since his sacrifice in [[Transformers (2023) issue 6|issue #6]]. He also confirms the obvious: that Optimus' visions, which have been appearing on-and-off since [[Transformers (2023) issue 7|issue #7]], are distorted due in part to Sparky's memories being mixed with Optimus'.
** Sparky has also been given a statue within the Hall of Primes. Likely confirming he has been added to the lineage of the Primes after being absorbed into the Matrix.
* The refugees recall the Decepticons' attacks on Tacoma and Seattle, which began in issues [[Transformers (2023) issue 15|#15]] and [[Transformers (2023) issue 17|#17]], respectively. The Tacoma survivors' words of remembrance are particularly notable, as they considered the Autobots unwelcome visitors when they arrived to help them.
* Rumble had his right arm destroyed by [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] in [[Transformers (2023) issue 5|issue #5]], but this issue confirms that he had it repaired off-panel (probably shortly after the conclusion of [[Transformers (2023) issue 20|issue #20]], given that Megatron's eyes were similarly repaired between issues).
* The remaining Aerialbots re-combine into [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] to battle the Decepticons, but owing to poor [[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]]'s death in [[Transformers (2023) issue 21|issue #21]], he has a stub where his left arm used to be.
* Bumblebee's deactivated body was shot to death by Starscream in [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|issue #1]]. Jetfire went offline the same issue and was only able to be brought back by being [[Transformation paralysis|locked]] into his [[alt-mode]] in [[Transformers (2023) issue 8|issue #8]], but he hasn't been seen since he was retrieved by Silverbolt in issue #20, and considering that he was aboard the ''Ark'' when it was teleported away by [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] in issue #21, his current fate remains up in the air.
* When we first saw him in a flashback from [[Transformers (2023) issue 2|issue #2]], Beachcomber was being shot in the back by Starscream, leading us to (incorrectly) assume that he'd died before the Autobots arrived on Earth. Now, 21 issues later, it's happened again... and since preview pages for [[Transformers (2023) issue 25|issue #25]] already show him working alongside the other Autobots, this means he's likely going to somehow survive this a ''second'' time!
* Ratchet died taking a shot meant for [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] in [[Transformers (2023) issue 10|issue #10]].

===Transformers references===
* Within the Hall of the Primes, Optimus (at least his head) is colored like he was in the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel comic]]. His eyes are yellow and his face is blue (behind his faceplate). Once he wakes up from his coma, he’s back to normal.
* Ultra Magnus' speech begins with him remarking on how he's not cut out for leadership, just as he did when Optimus passed the Matrix onto him in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.
* Of the three statues of the Primes seen in this issue, the only two that can be readily identified are those of [[Maccadam|Alchemist Prime]] (who we saw last issue) and [[Vector Prime]], who like the previously-seen Primes, is visually based on his ''[[Transformers: The Covenant of Primus|Covenant of Primus]]'' design.
* The sword Ultra Magnus uses, in this issue, bares a striking resemblance to the Star Saber from “Transformers: Prime”.
* Optimus punctuates the beginning of his and Megatron's duel by saying, what else, [[The Transformers: The Movie|"One shall stand. One shall fall."]]
* [[Daniel Warren Johnson]]'s sign-off on the letters pages paraphrases the lyrics of "[[Nothin's Gonna Stand in Our Way]]", one of the licensed songs featured in the '86 movie.

===Errors===
* As aforementioned, when we first see Arcee, her entire right arm is reduced to a skeletal frame. In the Adler Planetarium however, her arm is damaged from the ''bicep'' to the hand, rather than from the ''shoulder''. But once Ultra Magnus and Carly arrive to the Adler Planetarium, her shoulder is once again reduced to its skeletal form.

===Other notes===
* In his response to one of the letters, [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] says he's sure time will tell if other combiners like the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobot]]s and [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]]s will show up and opts to cheekily remark "Hmmmmm NO COMMENT." when asked if Bumblebee will wind up being resurrected as Goldbug down the line.
* Energon Experience: Presented by editor [[Ben Abernathy]].
** Character Spotlight: Wheeljack!
** Flashback Fun: A reminder that Wheeljack's as much a gadget man as he is a scientist, with specific mention of him getting the dam to generate [[energon]] in issue #5 and his intergalactic radio from the [[Transformers Energon Universe 2025 Special story|''Transformers'' story]] from 2025's ''[[Energon Universe 2025 Special|Energon Universe Special]]''.
** Creator Spotlight: Ben asks colorist [[Mike Spicer]] which Autobot he'd want with him on a stranded island and why. Mike says [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]], because it means he'd at least have tunes!

===Covers (11)===
{{Comicstub|The 616 Comics Cover B}}
* '''Cover A:''' Ultra Magnus holds firm with a flag bearing the Autobot [[insignia]], by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' Optimus and the Autobots in silhouette, by Jorge Corona and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover by [[David Nakayama]].
* '''Cover D:''' Optimus Prime with his right arm torn off, by [[Doug Mahnke]] and [[David Baron]].
* '''Cover E:''' Soundwave, by [[Simon Parr]].
* '''The 616 Comics Cover A:''' Jazz, by [[Björn Barends]].
* '''The 616 Comics Cover B:''' Foil variant of Björn Barends' cover.
* '''PCB Hobby Cover A:''' Soundwave, [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]], and [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]], by [[Sajad Shah]].
* '''PCB Hobby Cover B:''' Logoless variant of Sajad Shah's cover.
* '''ThatGuyWill Cover A:''' A watercolor painting of Optimus, by [[Ito]].
* '''ThatGuyWill Cover B:''' An oil painting of Optimus blocking an attack, by Ito.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 23 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 23 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 23 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 23 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 23 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 23 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 23 PCB Hobby Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 23 PCB Hobby Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 23 ThatGuyWill Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 23 ThatGuyWill Cover B.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisement===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 9|#10]], ''Void Rivals'' [[Void Rivals issue 21|#22]], and ''Transformers'' #24

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 23

2025-08-20T02:22:33Z

Diesel Prime: /* Transformers references */

{{comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #23
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 22
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 24
|image=Transformers 2023 23 Cover B.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[August 13]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=August 2025
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Jorge Corona]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''As his comrades make their last stand against the Decepticons, Optimus unexpectedly reunites with an old friend in the heart of the Matrix.'''

==Synopsis==
In the middle of the [[Pacific Ocean]], [[Shredhead]] reconstitutes from the shattered remains of the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]''' portal. After a brief moment to gather their bearings, Shredhead leaves to find [[Carly (G1)|Carly]].

Meanwhile, in the war-torn city of [[Chicago]], [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]], [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]], and [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] are fending off an assault from [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] as they try to get citizens from the city's north side to safety. Once that's been accomplished, Arcee advises that the [[Autobot]]s make some distance, knowing that the [[Decepticon]]s are after [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus]]' head. At the suggestion of [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]], Wheeljack has the Autobots relocate to the {{w|Adler Planetarium}}. [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] bears witness to all this from afar, and berates Starscream for ruining an ambush that's been in the works for a week when he returns to his leader's side. [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] confirms that the [[United States military]] forces defending the city have been successfully obliterated, and asks if they should continue slaughtering humans to break the Autobots' morale, but Megatron declines — the time has come for the Decepticons to move in, and for Optimus to learn his most important lesson...

Within the [[Matrix of Leadership]], Optimus wanders through the [[Hall of the Primes]] in search of wisdom. However, all he finds is an infestation of purple tendrils that latch onto him, causing his visions to re-emerge. He's quickly re-awoken by the unexpected appearance of [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparky]], who tells Optimus to transform and follow his lead.

[[File:TF2023 no. 23 - Autobots Vs Decepticons.jpg|left|thumb|250px]]
The Autobots' respite within the Adler Planetarium is interrupted by the beginning of the Decepticons' assault. With the end nigh, Wheeljack tells the still-comatose Optimus that he tried making him a new arm, but even if he somehow woke up, he's not sure it'd even work. [[Doctor Lio]] interrupts to allow the many refugees that've gathered in the Planetarium to pay their respects to their hero, and as people from the likes of [[Seattle]] and [[Tacoma]] say their pieces, Carly suddenly arrives with [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]. Magnus remarks that he'd wanted to be the kind of leader Optimus was ever since he first came to know of him, but despite being outwardly strong, he lacks the bravery and leadership skills needed. Nevertheless, he's prepared to die for Optimus' dream of a better world, and Magnus' words rally the other Autobots. And so, as [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] keeps watch from the back lines, the Autobots and Decepticons charge into battle.

In the Hall of the Primes, Optimus asks Sparky how long he'd been in there, but all he can recall is waking up and seeing Optimus being attacked right after. The tendrils latch onto Optimus again, triggering a memory of [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]]'s body lying dead aboard the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]''. Sparky remarks that the two's memories seem to be mixed-up as he makes a hard turn to de-entangle Optimus, replacing Optimus' memory with one of Sparky playing catch with a younger [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]]. Though Optimus is keen on seeing what the [[Thirteen|Primes]] have to show him, Sparky observes that whatever's infesting the Matrix has already claimed everything... except, that is, for a monument to Sparky himself, for reasons even the man himself can't explain.

With the Autobots' front line broken, Starscream disobeys Megatron and swoops in to eliminate Optimus, Spike, and Carly. Beachcomber flings himself in the way of Starscream's blasts, but despite reassuring Carly that he's fine, another shot from Starscream takes him down, seemingly for good...

Arriving at Sparky's monument, Optimus and Sparky open the doors to find Spike's body partway through a blue portal shaped like the Matrix's core. Optimus informs Sparky of his son's attempted sacrifice, a gesture that touches the old veteran. Sparky puts Spike's hand to his face, and as Optimus recalls the [[Jetfire (G1)|surrogate]] [[Ratchet (G1)|sons]] he's let down, Sparky muses on the nature of the Matrix's infection: whatever it is, it wants Optimus to surrender to nihilism and block the world around him, just as Sparky did, but it was thanks to Optimus' belief in a better world that Sparky was able to move past it all. To save both Optimus and his son, Sparky gently pushes Spike back through the portal, causing a wave of energy that dissipates the purple tendrils. As the world fades around them, Sparky makes Optimus promise to be there for his son, and Optimus says he'll do it with his entire being.

In the waking world, Starscream prepares to eliminate Carly and the still-comatose Optimus and Spike, only for Megatron to catch up with him and start beating him senseless, intending to do more to Optimus than give him a quick, violent end. Upon noticing the crowd of refugees, Megatron decides to dispose of them... only for Optimus to wake up and warn Megatron that they're under ''his'' protection. The Decepticons are prepared to engage, but Megatron orders them to stand down as he removes his [[fusion cannon]] — this battle is between him and Optimus. Megatron tosses his weapon aside, Optimus puts Carly and Spike on a nearby pile of rubble, and the two rivals' ultimate showdown begins...

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Shredhead]] (1)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (2)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (3)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (4)
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (7)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (8)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (13)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (14)
* [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (15)
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (16)
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (17)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (21)
* [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] (25)
* ''[[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]]'' (27)
* ''[[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]]'' (30)
* ''[[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]]'' (31)

|c2=
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (6)
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (9)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (10)
* [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] (22)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (23)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (24)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (26)

|c3=
* [[Chicago]] Residents (5)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (11)
* [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparky]] (12)
* [[Washington (state)|Washington]] Refugees (18)
* [[Doctor Lio]] (19)
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (20)

|h4=Others|c4=
* [[Maccadam|Alchemist Prime]] (28)
* [[Vector Prime]] (29)
}}

==Quotes==
"''Um''... Optimus Prime, sir? My sister was in Seattle. She was going to be crushed by a skyscraper. Until you stopped it. With your own body." 
"We were in Tacoma." 
"I thought we were going to die." 
"But you saved me." 
"You rescued us." 
"You rescued me."
:— Refugees from all over [[Washington (state)|Washington]], including '''Carly''', pay their respects to a comatose Optimus Prime.

"Ever since I knew of Optimus... I wanted to be just like him. But that was always impossible. I am strong on the outside. But on the inside... I don't know how to be strong. I don't know how to be a leader. I don't know how to be brave. But I know how to die. I can die for his dream of a better world for all of us. Including those who are small. '''We can all die!!!''' Protecting the one who has been strong for us, '''for so many years!!!''' For Optimus Prime."
:—'''Ultra Magnus''' rallies the Autobots as he reflects on his nature as a soldier.

"This infection... it wants to take you away from yourself. It wants you to give up. To put walls up. Just like I did. But I'm not that way anymore. Thanks to you, Optimus."
:—'''Sparky''' finds the Matrix's infection all too familiar.

"'''MEGATRON!!!''' These people. This planet. They are under '''my''' protection." 
"Megatron, stand clear! We shall ruin him--" 
"No. This is between me... and him." 
"One shall stand. '''ONE SHALL FALL!'''"
:—'''Megatron''' denies '''Starscream''''s aid as he and '''Optimus Prime''' prepare to duel.

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* As was noted [[Transformers (2023) issue 22|last issue]] by [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]], the Earth side of the ''Nemesis''' portal was blown to smithereens during the Autobots' and Decepticons' battle and scattered across the ocean floor, causing Shredhead's body to initially manifest in pieces before painfully recombining.
* When we see Arcee in the first few pages, her entire right arm, from the ''shoulder'' to her ''hand'', seems to have been reduced to its skeletal components, possibly from the earlier stages of the battle in Chicago in this issue, when they are helping civilians escape from the Decepticon onslaught.
* Megatron observes that the Decepticons have been quietly following the Autobots for a week, giving us a rough idea of how long the time gap between the end of last issue and the start of this one is. The time gap can also be observed through the Autobots, who were all largely intact last issue, but are now in varying states of disrepair after fending off Decepticon attacks for so long.
* Thanks to being an astral projection within the Matrix, Optimus is finally able to manifest his [[energon-axe|axe]] for the first time since [[Transformers (2023) issue 3|issue #3]], where his physical self's right arm was wrecked ''just'' as the axe made its debut.
* Sparky (or rather, his spirit) makes his first physical appearance since his sacrifice in [[Transformers (2023) issue 6|issue #6]]. He also confirms the obvious: that Optimus' visions, which have been appearing on-and-off since [[Transformers (2023) issue 7|issue #7]], are distorted due in part to Sparky's memories being mixed with Optimus'.
* The refugees recall the Decepticons' attacks on Tacoma and Seattle, which began in issues [[Transformers (2023) issue 15|#15]] and [[Transformers (2023) issue 17|#17]], respectively. The Tacoma survivors' words of remembrance are particularly notable, as they considered the Autobots unwelcome visitors when they arrived to help them.
* Rumble had his right arm destroyed by [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] in [[Transformers (2023) issue 5|issue #5]], but this issue confirms that he had it repaired off-panel (probably shortly after the conclusion of [[Transformers (2023) issue 20|issue #20]], given that Megatron's eyes were similarly repaired between issues).
* The remaining Aerialbots re-combine into [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] to battle the Decepticons, but owing to poor [[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]]'s death in [[Transformers (2023) issue 21|issue #21]], he has a stub where his left arm used to be.
* Bumblebee's deactivated body was shot to death by Starscream in [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|issue #1]]. Jetfire went offline the same issue and was only able to be brought back by being [[Transformation paralysis|locked]] into his [[alt-mode]] in [[Transformers (2023) issue 8|issue #8]], but he hasn't been seen since he was retrieved by Silverbolt in issue #20, and considering that he was aboard the ''Ark'' when it was teleported away by [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] in issue #21, his current fate remains up in the air.
* When we first saw him in a flashback from [[Transformers (2023) issue 2|issue #2]], Beachcomber was being shot in the back by Starscream, leading us to (incorrectly) assume that he'd died before the Autobots arrived on Earth. Now, 21 issues later, it's happened again... and since preview pages for [[Transformers (2023) issue 25|issue #25]] already show him working alongside the other Autobots, this means he's likely going to somehow survive this a ''second'' time!
* Ratchet died taking a shot meant for [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] in [[Transformers (2023) issue 10|issue #10]].

===Transformers references===
* Within the Hall of the Primes, Optimus (at least his head) is colored like he was in the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel comic]]. His eyes are yellow and his face is blue (behind his faceplate). Once he wakes up from his coma, he’s back to normal.
* Ultra Magnus' speech begins with him remarking on how he's not cut out for leadership, just as he did when Optimus passed the Matrix onto him in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.
* Of the three statues of the Primes seen in this issue, the only two that can be readily identified are those of [[Maccadam|Alchemist Prime]] (who we saw last issue) and [[Vector Prime]], who like the previously-seen Primes, is visually based on his ''[[Transformers: The Covenant of Primus|Covenant of Primus]]'' design.
* The sword Ultra Magnus uses, in this issue, bares a striking resemblance to the Star Saber from “Transformers: Prime”.
* Optimus punctuates the beginning of his and Megatron's duel by saying, what else, [[The Transformers: The Movie|"One shall stand. One shall fall."]]
* [[Daniel Warren Johnson]]'s sign-off on the letters pages paraphrases the lyrics of "[[Nothin's Gonna Stand in Our Way]]", one of the licensed songs featured in the '86 movie.

===Errors===
* As aforementioned, when we first see Arcee, her entire right arm is reduced to a skeletal frame. In the Adler Planetarium however, her arm is damaged from the ''bicep'' to the hand, rather than from the ''shoulder''. But once Ultra Magnus and Carly arrive to the Adler Planetarium, her shoulder is once again reduced to its skeletal form.

===Other notes===
* In his response to one of the letters, [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] says he's sure time will tell if other combiners like the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobot]]s and [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]]s will show up and opts to cheekily remark "Hmmmmm NO COMMENT." when asked if Bumblebee will wind up being resurrected as Goldbug down the line.
* Energon Experience: Presented by editor [[Ben Abernathy]].
** Character Spotlight: Wheeljack!
** Flashback Fun: A reminder that Wheeljack's as much a gadget man as he is a scientist, with specific mention of him getting the dam to generate [[energon]] in issue #5 and his intergalactic radio from the [[Transformers Energon Universe 2025 Special story|''Transformers'' story]] from 2025's ''[[Energon Universe 2025 Special|Energon Universe Special]]''.
** Creator Spotlight: Ben asks colorist [[Mike Spicer]] which Autobot he'd want with him on a stranded island and why. Mike says [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]], because it means he'd at least have tunes!

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Ultra Magnus holds firm with a flag bearing the Autobot [[insignia]], by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' Optimus and the Autobots in silhouette, by Jorge Corona and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover by [[David Nakayama]].
* '''Cover D:''' Optimus Prime with his right arm torn off, by [[Doug Mahnke]] and [[David Baron]].
* '''Cover E:''' Soundwave, by [[Simon Parr]].
* '''The 616 Comics Cover A:''' Jazz, by [[Björn Barends]].
* '''The 616 Comics Cover B:''' Foil variant of Björn Barends' cover.
* '''PCB Hobby Cover A:''' Soundwave, [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]], and [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]], by [[Sajad Shah]].
* '''PCB Hobby Cover B:''' Logoless variant of Sajad Shah's cover.
* '''ThatGuyWill Cover A:''' A watercolor painting of Optimus, by [[Ito]].
* '''ThatGuyWill Cover B:''' An oil painting of Optimus blocking an attack, by Ito.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 23 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 23 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 23 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 23 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 23 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 23 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 23 PCB Hobby Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 23 PCB Hobby Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 23 ThatGuyWill Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 23 ThatGuyWill Cover B.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisement===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 9|#10]], ''Void Rivals'' [[Void Rivals issue 21|#22]], and ''Transformers'' #24

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Void Rivals issue 21

2025-07-26T23:51:48Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Void Rivals]]'' #21
|prev=Void Rivals issue 20
|next=Void Rivals issue 22
|image=Void Rivals 21 Cover B.jpg
|caption=Looks like the Void Rivals are under attack!
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[July 23]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=July 2025
|written by=[[Robert Kirkman]]
|art by=[[Conor Hughes]]
|colors by=[[Patricio Delpeche]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''Zalilak returns from his trials and prepares to lead his people into Unity with Agorria... by ''force''.'''

==Synopsis==
The scarred [[Skuxxoid]] awakens in a barrack full of other Skuxxoids. When he demands to be let out, the rest tell the newbie that they are only sent out on missions and suggest he fall in line lest he be sent to “the Divider.” Scarred Skuxxoid balks at the idea of being part of their rabble, and soon a fight breaks out between him and the others. After a few minutes, he stands victorious over the rest of the Skuxxoids, but he gets little time to rest before a robot enters to tell him he has been summoned. Brought before [[Skuxxoid Alpha]], he is ordered to kneel. Reluctantly, he does so.

In [[Zertonia]], [[Proximus]] sits on the throne when [[Ultum]] enters, telling Proximus that he has a visitor and that, as his attendant, it's his job to announce Proximus's various titles... except he doesn't actually know what those titles are supposed to be. But the visitor, [[Zalilak]], tells the young boy that he has no need for false titles and orders Proximus to vacate his throne. Proximus prepares to attack Zalilak, but Zalilak just blasts him with pink energy and rips off his helmet, revealing his cyborg visage. Using his newly formed connection to [[Beta (G1)|Zerta Trion]], he forces Proximus to hear the words of Zerta herself as pink energy fills his eyes. Proximus then falls to his knees and pledges his loyalty to Zalilak. Reclaiming his place as leader of Zertonia, Zalilak orders his troops to prepare for an assault on [[Agorria]]!

In Agorria, [[Solila]]'s bout with [[Darak]] and the Agorrian guard has shown her that unity will not be achieved through fighting, and she beseeches Minister [[Dulin]] to let her stay in Agorria and work with them, offering to learn their ways and earn their trust. Though Dulin is incredulous at the offer, he acquiesces since he'd be unable to remove her against her will if he tried. As Dulin leaves, Solila convenes with Darak, offering him his [[Handroid]] back. Darak counteroffers that she can keep him since he already got a replacement, but Solila is insistent, as Handroid talks way too much. When Darak comments that his new one only speaks on request, they decide to swap.

Suddenly, an alarm goes off: something is approaching Agorrian airspace. Darak asks Solila if this is part of her attack, but she's just as surprised as him. Running outside, they meet up with [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] and [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]]. The [[Autobot]]s and Solila play catch up with each other while Darak beholds what caused the alert: a fleet of Zertonian ships coming in for the attack. Darak orders Handroid to alert his [[jump jet]] squadron and have them readied to fight back. As Darak takes to the skies, Solila and the Autobots are left to take on the attack from the ground as a new wave of troops appear, with Proximus leading the charge!
==Featured characters==
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] (14)
* [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] (15)

|h4=[[Agorrian]]s|c4=
* [[Darak]] (9)
* [[Dulin]] (10)
* Guards (11)
* [[Gamut]] (17)
* [[Krint]] (18)
* [[Manzo]] (19)
* [[Garad]] (20)

|h5=[[Zertonian]]s|c5=
* [[Proximus]] (4)
* [[Ultum]] (5)
* [[Zalilak]] (6)
* Attendant (7)
* [[Solila]] (8)
* Pilots (21)
* Soldiers (22)

|h6=Others|c6=
* Scarred [[Skuxxoid]] (1)
* Other Skuxxoids (2)
* Mysterious robots (3)
* Red [[Handroid]] (12)
* Blue Handroid (13)
* [[Skuxxoid Alpha]] (16)
}}

==Quotes==
'''Hot Rod:''' "Who's the horned lady?'''" 
'''Springer:''' "That's Solila. I saved her life a while back. She's all right." 
'''Hot Rod:''' "Nice to meet you, Solila. I'm Hot Rod." 
'''Solila:''' "I don't think we have time for this." 
'''Hot Rod:''' "Okay. '''Rude.'''"

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Proximus was seen taking over as Premier while Zalilak underwent his trials in [[Void Rivals issue 18|issue #18]].
* While not stated outright, the pink energy blast that Zalilak uses calls to mind the pink of [[Energon]]. Perhaps his new status has given him some sort of control over the substance?
**However, the previous and following panels show it might be him catching Proximus's shot in his hand.
* Proximus mentioned that he had read the [[Sacred Text]]s in [[Void Rivals issue 7|issue #7]].
* The gravitational effects of the black hole on launching jump jet pilots, requiring the necessity of the reviver, was first established in [[Void Rivals issue 2|issue #2]].
* Dulin questions Darak on if the Zertonians could have gotten ahold of Energon technology before the Agorrians. Readers will remember Darak ensured the Zertonians had schematics to build an Energon well akin to Springer’s [[Void Rivals issue 11|issue #11]].

===''G.I. Joe'' references===
* The Zertonian pilots having energy gliders that allow them to bail out of their fighters safely is a tongue-in-cheek reference to how, in the original ''[[G.I. Joe (franchise)|G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero]]'' cartoon, [[Cobra]] Troopers would always be seen bailing out of any destroyed planes and parachuting safely to the ground, reassuring kids (and their parents) that the heroes of [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]] are definitely not killing any of their foes.

===Other notes===
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Publisher [[Sean Mackiewicz]].
** '''Character Spotlight:''' The Handroids
** '''Universal Greeting:''' A highlight on the robot hunter that first started trailing the Skuxxoid back in the [[Void Rivals Energon Universe 2024 Special story]].
** '''Creator Q&A:''' Which Void Rivals character would be Conor Hughes’s best friend and worst enemy? According to Hughes, Skuxxoid would certainly make a great frenemy.

===Covers (5)===
* '''Cover A:''' Zalilak stands triumphant, by [[Lorenzo De Felici]].
* '''Cover B:''' Zertonian fighters descend on Darak and Agorria, by [[Conor Hughes]].
* '''Cover C (1:10 Copy Incentive):''' Connecting cover, by [[Martín Morazzo]] and Patricio Delpeche.
* '''Cover D (1:25 Copy Incentive):''' Solila stands between the Agorrians and the Zertonians, by [[Luigi Formisano]].
* '''Cover E (1:50 Copy Incentive):''' Hot Rod and Darak, by [[Hayden Sherman]].

<gallery>
File:Void Rivals 21 Cover A.jpg|
File:Void Rivals 21 Cover B.jpg|
File:Void Rivals 21 Cover C.jpg|
File:Void Rivals 21 Cover D.jpg|
File:Void Rivals 21 Cover E.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisement===
* Explore the Energon Universe in [[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]] [[Transformers (2023) issue 23|#23]], ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 10|#10]] and ''Void Rivals'' #21.
* ''Ghost Pepper''
* ''Universal Monsters: The Invisible Man''
* ''Skinbreaker''
* ''Invincible Universe: Battle Beast''

===Reprints===
* '''''Void Rivals Volume 4: First Chosen''''' ([[December 9]], [[2025]]) ISBN 1534329536 / ISBN 978-1534329539 
** Collects issues #19-24.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Void Rivals V4.jpg|'''''Volume 4: First Chosen''''' - cover art by Lorenzo De Felici
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Void Rivals issues]]

Perceptor (G1)/toys

2025-07-24T07:00:14Z

Diesel Prime: /* Studio Series */

{{suite}}
[[File:G1 boxart Perceptor.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|"You've got red on you."]]
'''Perceptor''' is the definitive Transformer microscope.

==Toys==
===''The Transformers''===
{{anchor|Generation 1}}[[File:G1toy-Perceptor.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Because it's easier to see small things when you have a giant [[light cannon]] aiming at them.]]
*'''Perceptor''' (Autobot, [[1985]]/[[1986]])
**''Takara ID number:'' '''39'''
**''Accessories:'' [[concussion weapon|Concussion rifle]], missile launcher, 3 [[missile]]s
{{toydesigner|[[Hideaki Yoke]] (TakaraTomy)|[[Shinji Aramaki]] (concept artist)}}

:Formerly the ''[[Micro Change]]'' MC-20 Micro Scope, ''[[The Transformers (toyline)|The Transformers]]'' Perceptor transforms into a functional microscope. His magnification is limited to 14X<ref>Perceptor's [[instructions]].</ref> due to the relatively crude nature of his lens. In [[robot mode]], Perceptor is armed with a red "Concussion Rifle" and a rocket launcher that holds one of three red missile-shaped projectiles. On the original ''Micro Change'' toy, the launcher fired via a spring-loaded mechanism, which was disabled for the Hasbro release of Perceptor, but re-enabled for Takara's version of the figure.

:Perceptor can also be configured into a third "vehicular" mode. In the ''Micro Change'' line, this form was a mobile artillery emplacement that repurposed his scope into a cannon barrel. It had two configurations; it could be angled forward to serve as a tank, or upward to serve as a [[mortar cannon]], and could be manned in both by a ''Microman'' action figure, who sat in the "seat" formed by his chest tray. The ''Transformers'' release of the toy chose to reinterpret the mode as a "mobile laboratory" in its instructions, which depicted it in its angled-upwards "mortar cannon" configuration, but Perceptor's [[The Transformers Universe|''Universe'' profile]] didn't go along with this, and referred to it as an artillery emplacement like it was in ''Micro Change''.

:The Japanese version does ''not'' launch missiles from the scope, despite what some sources say.

:There is an odd variant of this toy: some have a more golden-hued chrome than the normal silver. This is not a very common variant.

:The mold was later [[redeco]]ed to make [[Magnificus (G1)#Toys|Magnificus]]. It also served as the model for the non-toy character, the [[Chairman]].
::*''[http://www.tfu.info/1985/Autobot/Perceptor/perceptor.htm More information on Perceptor at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===''The Transformers Collection''===
*'''Cybertron Perceptor''' ([[2005]])
**''ID number:'' '''19'''

:Perceptor was [[Generation 1 reissues|reissued]] in Japan as part of [[TakaraTomy|Takara]]'s ''[[The Transformers Collection|Transformers Collection]]'' line.
{{-}}

===''Classics''===
[[File:Class06-toy Perceptor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|"I will blow up your whole city. For science."]]
*'''Perceptor''' (Legends Class, [[2006]])
{{toydesigner|[[Joe Kyde]] (deco artist)}}

:Available as part of the first assortment of ''[[Transformers: Classics|Classics]]'' ''[[Legends Class (2005)|Legends of Cybertron]]'', Perceptor is a [[redeco]] of the ''Legends of Cybertron'' [[Red Alert (Armada)#LOC|Red Alert]]. He transforms into a BTR-90 armored personnel carrier with a large missile/laser cannon/microscope/telescope.

:This mold was also used to make ''[[Transformers: Universe (2008 toyline)|Universe]]'' [[Onslaught (G1)#Universe (2008)|Onslaught]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2006/Autobot/ClassicsPerceptor/perceptor.htm More information on ''Classics'' Perceptor at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===''Universe'' (2008)===
[[File:Universe2008-Perceptorreissue.jpg|thumb|upright=1|Free him from his prison, so that he may think ''outside'' the box!]]
*'''Perceptor''' ([[2009]])
**''Series'': '''G1 Series'''
**''Accessories'': Concussion rifle, missile launcher, 3 missiles

:Hasbro did their own reissue of Perceptor as part of the [[Transformers: Universe (2008 toyline)|''Universe'' line]]. The [[Toys"R"Us]] [[exclusive]] was issued in a box with an opening front cover and advertised as a "Commemorative Edition", much like the earlier [[Soundwave (G1)/toys#Universe (2008)|Soundwave]] and the [[Insecticon (G1)#Universe (2008)|Insecticons]] (which were released at the same time as Perceptor).
:There are several differences between the original 1985 toy and this one. The stickers are shiny reflective, not matte. On his shoulder stickers, the magnification is shown as x15, not x14 as on the G1 figure. The stickers on the sides of the lower legs retained the original Microman number "MC 20", which is filled out blank on the original. Lastly, while the 1985 figure has 1974-1984 Takara stamped on his lower back, the reissue has Takara 1984 and Hasbro 1984 stamped vertically on his shoulder blades.
:Strangely, the spring of the missile launcher was not weakened like most Generation 1 toys, but were straight-out omitted from the gun. This makes the missiles totally useless, because they don't even clip into the gun. Additionally, the box labels his mobile-laboratory mode as a tank mode while not including his actual tank mode.
{{-}}

===''Transformers'' (2010)===
[[File:TF2010toy-Perceptor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66| Thank you [[Aaron Archer|Aaron]], and your love of Perceptor!]]
*'''Perceptor''' (Deluxe Class, [[2011]])
{{toydesigner|[[Hisashi Yuki]] (TakaraTomy)}}

:Part of the sixth wave of the [[Transformers (2010 toyline)|2010 ''Transformers'' toyline]], Perceptor amalgamates elements from his original Generation 1 design and [[Guido Guidi]]'s design from IDW's ''[[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|All Hail Megatron]]'' series (in particular, the foreshortened chest seen in [[:File:AHM8-Perceptor.jpg|this panel]], the arrows on his forearms and abdomen, and even his sniper rifle barrel in lieu of his traditional scope). His updated [[alternate mode|vehicle mode]] is reminiscent of that of [[Perceptor (Animated)|his ''Animated'' counterpart]], being a generic "scientific expedition" vehicle. Its front half resembles a modern off-road vehicle similar to a {{w|Land Rover Defender}} or a {{w|Jeep Commander}}, while the rear section features treads instead of wheels, making it a half-track vehicle (which aren't actually produced anymore). His license plate reads "MR 51409", the exact significance of which is not yet known (though it might have something to do with the possible birth date of [[Bill Rawley]]'s daughter).

[[File:PerceptorHasbroStock.jpg|thumb|upright=0.66|Lack of G1 chrome was deemed "not nerdy enough".]]
:Unusually for a mainline Hasbro toy, Perceptor has some [[Vacuum metallizing|vacuum-metalized]] parts. The chromed dials on his forearms feature bars compatible with [[C joint]] accessories. Like all ''[[Transformers (2010 toyline)#Hasbro Reveal the Shield subline|Reveal the Shield]]'' [[subline imprint]] figures, Perceptor has a [[rubsign]], which is located behind a translucent door on his chest that can be opened. His hands are compatible with [[5 mm post|5mm post]]s, such as the ones on the guns of his original toy.

:The [[instructions]] incorrectly tell you to position the feet horizontally in vehicle mode, which causes them to press against his knees and prevent the vehicle mode from tabbing correctly in numerous places, when they are meant to be positioned vertically and rest against the trunk. Strangely, the correct position can be seen in the numerous steps depicting the underside of the vehicle, but it immediately switches to the incorrect position on the steps concerning the feet. Additionally, [[packaging]] [[stock photography]] depicts a considerably different Perceptor than the final product. The photos show him having silver [[paint operation]]s on his upper legs and inner forearms, but said parts appear to be made of [[unpaintable plastic]], rather understandably causing the paint operations to be dropped. Additionally, the shoulder laser, chest, and arm knobs sport silver paint rather than chrome.

:As first acknowledged by Hasbro at [[BotCon 2010]], the toy was planned to eventually be retooled into [[Reflector (G1)#Generations|Reflector]], using a new head based on Perceptor's original toy head.<ref>http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/conventions-15/botcon-2010-hasbro-designers-panel-170066/</ref> At one point, Reflector was intended to be released as part of a [[Toys"R"Us]] [[exclusive]] ''[[Transformers: Generations (toyline)|Generations]]'' 2-pack together with [[Sideswipe (G1)/toys#Generations|Sideswipe]] (in ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (toyline)|Generation 2]]'' colors), but that set was ultimately never released. The alternate head sculpt was eventually used by TakaraTomy for the [[e-HOBBY]] exclusive ''Generations'' [[Magnificus (G1)#Generations|Magnificus]] figure.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2011/Autobot/Perceptor/perceptor.htm More information on ''Reveal the Shield'' Perceptor at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===''United''===
[[File:Unitedtoy-Perceptor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Maybe my [[C joint]]s will work!]]
*'''Autobot Perceptor''' ([[February 26]], [[2011]])
**''ID number:'' '''UN-15'''

:''[[Transformers United|United]]'' Autobot Perceptor features several differences from his Hasbro ''Reveal the Shield'' counterpart, covering his red vehicle panels with metallic red paint, replacing the clear yellow with colorless clear plastic, and adding some additional detailing to his vehicle mode and robot mode. Other notable details are blue translucent paint on the eyes, as well as silver detailing on his chest. As with all ''United'' versions of the 2010 ''Transformers'' toys, Perceptor lacks a heat-sensitive [[rubsign]], replacing it with a [[tampograph]]ed Autobot sigil. Surprisingly, he lacks any of the chrome from the Hasbro release, leaving those corresponding parts either painted silver or unpainted light gray plastic.
{{-}}

===''Kre-O''===
[[File:KreO-Toy PerceptorKreon.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Robot mode and "looking for where I put my head" mode.]]
*'''Perceptor''' (Kreon Micro-Changer, 2013)
**''Collection'': '''2'''
**''Bag number'': '''***** 74'''
**''Accessories'': Stand-brick, large rifle
{{toydesigner|[[Ed Masiello]] (Hasbro)}}

:As part of the second wave of [[blindpacking|blindpacked]] [[Micro-Changer]]s, Perceptor is a Kreon patterned after Generation 1 Perceptor. He can be rebuilt into a microscope.

:This Collection was still in circulation at "dollar" stores and drug stores up through 2015. They eventually lost the individual-identifying bag codes, but other changes were hidden inside the bag. The 2015 releases replaced the 2x4 logo stand-brick with a new 3x4 logo plate. The Kreon was also given the slight [[retool]]ing to the arm seen in the 2014 Kreons, making the "cuff" parts more sharp-cornered and better adapted to being used as studs. Some of the add-on pieces may also be slightly off-color, possibly due to a change in factories in mid-production.

::*''[http://tfu.info/2013/Autobot/Kre-OPerceptor/perceptor.htm More information on Micro-Changer Perceptor at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|SDCC2014}}
[[File:KreO-Toy PerceptorC84.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Yeah yeah, blinded with science, '80s reference, we get it.]]
*'''Kreon Class of 1984''' (Kreon figure set, 2014)
**''Set number'': '''B0090'''
**''Voted'': Class Brain
**''Accessories'': Large rifle, microscope slide (?)

:This version of Perceptor, part of the [[Kreon Class of 1984]] (despite the fact that Perceptor did not appear in ''Transformers'' in any capacity until 1985), has much more detailed toy-based [[tampograph]]s than his prior version, including a masked face. He comes with a clear blue 2x2 tile that one can only assume is supposed to be some kind of microscope slide.

:He was only available in a [[San Diego Comic-Con]] 2014 [[exclusive]] pack of 30 Kreons dubbed the "Kreon Class of 1984". Remaining stock was to be sold at [[Hasbro Toy Shop]] online, only there ''was'' no remaining stock after the show.

::*''[http://tfu.info/2014/Autobot/SDCCKre-OPerceptor/perceptor.htm More information on Class of 1984 Perceptor at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

{{Anchor|2016}}
* '''Perceptor''' (Kreon Micro-Changer, 2016)
**''Collection'': '''2'''
**''Accessories'': Logo plate, large rifle

:In 2016, Collection 2 was re-released in a whole new production run for Dollar General stores in the US as part of a large collection of re-released ''Kre-O'' sets. But where most of these releases are nigh-identical to the originals, the re-released Micro-Changer blind-bags use the almost-entirely-retooled 2015 Kreon, with slightly-differently-hued plastics than the originals. (It is possible for some of the add-on pieces to be in the older hues.) Perceptor's [[tampograph]]s got some color changes, replacing the light gray with shiny silver, and changing his light blue toe paint to black.

:Sadly, this release has no individual-identification code on the bag, requiring you to use the feel-through-the-bag method or just buy blind and hope.
{{-}}

===''Generations''===
*'''Autobot Warriors''' (Multi-pack, 2014)

:''Reveal the Shield'' Perceptor was re-released in a three-pack with ''Universe'' [[Ratchet (G1)/toys#Universe (2008)|Ratchet]] and ''Generations'' [[Kup (G1)/toys#Generations|Sergeant Kup]], available from Hasbro Asia and [[TakaraTomy Mall]]. All three Autobots feature new metallic paint decoes, which in Perceptor's case also includes a rear license plate reading "[[Nijika|N1j1K4]]."
{{-}}

===''Platinum Edition''===
[[File:Generations-Platinum-Edition-Autobot-Intel-Ops-Perceptor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Now we can simulate that [[15 Go! Go!]] scene with ever ''greater'' efficiency!]]
*'''Autobot Intel Ops''' (2015)
**''Accessories'': Concussion rifle, missile launcher, 3 missiles, 6 slides, slide holder

:Hasbro again re-released G1 Perceptor in 2015 as part of the [[Transformers: Platinum Edition|''Platinum Edition'']] toyline. He was co-packed with [[Blaster (G1)/toys#Platinum Edition|Blaster]], [[Eject (G1)#Generations|Eject]], [[Ramhorn (G1)#Generations|Ramhorn]], and [[Steeljaw (G1)#Generations|Steeljaw]] in a box with an opening front cover.

:A new feature included in this set specifically for Perceptor are six 'microscope slides' featuring different pictures, and a slide holder / cage which can hold all six slides. The slides fit snugly onto the mirror of Perceptor's mounting platform, although looking at them through the scope is an underwhelming experience, to say the least.

:Although Perceptor's missile launcher is included, once again the firing mechanism is completely gutted, with the trigger glued into the launcher. However, the missiles are still able to plug into the launcher and are held firmly in place by friction.

:In the United States, this set was officially a [[Target]] exclusive, though it was initially only ever found at a single Target store, otherwise only available via the company's website. It was later revealed that multiple Target stores had kept it in their stockroom and eventually put it out on instant clearance many months later. However, it was also stocked by US-based online retailers [[BigBadToyStore]] and TFSource, who supposedly obtained it as an import from Asia. It was available in several of Hasbro's Asian markets (namely Malaysia, the Philippines and Singapore; it's currently unknown whether it was exclusive to any particular stores there or not). In Australia, it was sold at [[Toys"R"Us]] stores.

:In the United Kingdom, it was both sold at [[Toys"R"Us]] stores and officially available via the UK division of [[Amazon (website)|Amazon]], making this the first official UK release of all the toys contained within! In Spain, it was officially available via the Spanish division of Amazon. In Germany, it was originally available via Bankroft, an online retailer that otherwise specializes in [[Nerf]] blasters and accessories, as part of a special "Fan Edition" arrangement through Hasbro Germany, with the help of several German [[fandom|fan]] sites. Due to low sales, the unsold stock was later sold to Actionfiguren24, a German online retailer that specializes in imported toys, who was able to lower its price for its existing stock of imported Autobot Intel Ops sets as a result.
{{--}}

===''Titans Return''===
[[File:TF-Generations-Titans-Return-Deluxe-Perceptor.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Targeting grid eye not included.]]
*'''Convex & Perceptor''' (Deluxe Class, 2017)
**''Accessories'': Gun, [[Convex]] Titan Master
{{toydesigner|[[John Warden]] (Hasbro)}}

:Part of the fourth wave of ''[[Titans Return (toyline)|Titans Return]]'' Deluxe Class toys, Perceptor is based on [[Guido Guidi]]'s design for the character first seen in ''[[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|All Hail Megatron]]'' (complete with sniper rifle), and transforms into a microscope. Perceptor's microscope lens works, and a dial on the scope can be turned to refocus it slightly. Titan Masters can be laid across the tray in robot mode, or pegged into the tray in head mode. Perceptor comes with his Titan Master partner [[Convex]], who transforms into his robot mode head.

:Perceptor is designed to transform into a new interpretation of the third mode of his original toy, with dedicated parts and clips to hold his body in place in the specific angled-upward position of the "mortar cannon" configuration, but with his scope pointed forward like the "tank" configuration. It is omitted from his instructions for unknown reasons.

:Perceptor's transformation involves very little to lock anything in place in robot mode, relying on either friction or gravity to hold him together. This leaves him somewhat unstable, and his parts prone to shifting out of place when attempting to move his limbs. The large size of his scope also greatly restricts his head articulation.

:As with other ''Titans Return'' toys, Perceptor can accommodate any Titan Master figure in both robot and vehicle mode, though ''unlike'' most other figures in the line, Perceptor has no dedicated cockpit to hold them in. This means Titan Masters can really only lay in his tray in microscope mode, or attach to him via the small pegs sculpted onto the sides of his altmodes. There does appear to be a section sculpted specifically to hold a Titan Master's feet under the small flip-up silver panel on his chest that would allow them to "man" his third mode... except rather than sitting in it, they have to ''kneel'' with their knees locking into the groove.
{{--}}

===''Legends''===
[[File:LG56-Perceptor.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
*'''Perceptor''' (Deluxe Class, [[December 30]], [[2017]])
**''ID number'': '''LG56'''
**''Accessories:'' Gun, Headmaster

:''[[Transformers Legends (franchise)|Legends]]'' Perceptor is a redeco of his ''Titans Return'' Deluxe Class toy with some minor differences, such as red shoulders and elbows and an Autobot insignia on his chest instead of stomach, and also lacking the toy-style [[tampograph]]s on his legs. His Headmaster, redecoed from Convex, features detailed paint operations to resemble Perceptor himself and has blue instead of yellow eyes in head mode. Perceptor comes with [[Ramhorn (G1)#Legends|Amhorn]], who transforms into a weapon he can wield.
{{--}}

===''Golden Lagoon''===
[[File:TF 35th Golden Lagoon Perceptor.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
*'''Beachcomber / Perceptor / Seaspray''' (Three-pack, November 2018)
**''Hasbro ID number'': '''GL-03'''
**''Accessories'': Gun, Headmaster
:''[[The Transformers Golden Lagoon|Golden Lagoon]]'' Perceptor is a gold and gold chrome redeco of ''Titans Return'' Deluxe Class Perceptor in homage of the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|original cartoon]] [[The Golden Lagoon (episode)|episode of the same name]]. Packaged with similar redecoes of ''Titans Return'' [[Seaspray (G1)#Golden Lagoon|Seaspray]] and ''[[Power of the Primes (toyline)|Power of the Primes]]'' [[Beachcomber (G1)#Golden Lagoon|Beachcomber]], this set was released exclusively by [[TakaraTomy Mall]] as part of TakaraTomy's celebration of the franchise's 35th anniversary. The set was later rereleased by [[Hasbro Pulse]] in the USA in January 2021.

:This toy also appeared in ''[[Generations Selects Special Comic]]'' as a member of the [[Golden Age (GS)|Golden Age]], who may or may not be named "Perceptor".
{{--}}

===''Studio Series''===
[[File:TF-Studio-Series-86-11-Deluxe-Perceptor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|A cursory evaluation of his microscope's capability reveals a distinct tactical deficiency.]]
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-a1|'''Perceptor''' (Deluxe Class, [[2022]])}}</ul>
:*''Movie'': '''''The Transformers: The Movie'''''
:*''Hasbro ID number'': '''86-11'''
:*''TakaraTomy ID number'': '''SS-75'''
:*''TakaraTomy release date'': [[April 30]], 2022
:*''Accessories'': Blaster, "[[Battle of Autobot City]]" backdrop (1st version)
{{toydesigner|[[Evan Brooks]] (Hasbro),<ref>[[August 13]], [[2021]]'s [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-r_ueBc4R0 "Fan First Friday | Transformers Livestream"] on YouTube, with [[Evan Brooks]], [[Ben MacCrae]], and [[Isabella Weiss]].</ref> [[Takashi Kunihiro]] (TakaraTomy)<ref>[https://www.instagram.com/p/CkdrICwO9c3/ Design notes on ''Studio Series'' 86 Perceptor] from Hasbro designer [[Evan Brooks]] on Instagram.</ref>|[[Mario Carreiro]], [[Christina Murphy]] and [[Amy Bence]] (packaging),<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/live/52ddGYMyvpE?si=7l7OP6YeEB9W82xR&t=9841 Transformers Panel] at [[Hasbro Pulse Con 2024]] with [[Ben MacCrae]], [[Evan Brooks]], [[Mark Maher]], [[Marcelo Matere]], and [[Nate Purswell]].</ref> [[Marcelo Matere]] (packaging artist)}}

: Released in the fifteenth wave of ''[[Studio Series]]'' Deluxes, commemorating the 35th anniversary of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'', Perceptor faithfully recreates his character model from the Generation 1 cartoon, but with the addition of the tank tread legs from his original toy. Perceptor transforms into both a microscope and a goofy mortar cannon mode. While both ends of his scope ''are'' fitted with translucent plastic "lenses", it does not have any actual functionality as a microscope unlike the [[#The Transformers|original]] and [[#Titans Return|''Titans Return'' figures]]. He comes with a modestly-sized blaster which can be pegged into the side of his scope/cannon in either alternate mode.

: Like the other ''Studio Series'' toys, the interior of the package forms a display backdrop, depicting the Battle of Autobot City in Perceptor's case. His surface greebling is directly based on [https://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/images2/thumb/f/f4/G1_Perceptor_reissueart.jpg/394px-G1_Perceptor_reissueart.jpg box art] from the [[The Transformers Collection|''The Transformers Collection'']] [[#The Transformers Collection|reissue]] of his original toy, as seen in designer [[Evan Brooks]]' behind the scenes Instagram post.

: The pearl-white paint on Perceptor's translucent-plastic chest window is prone to scuffing and scratching even before the packaging is opened.

: This mold was also used to make ''Selects'' [[Magnificus (G1)#Generations Selects|Magnificus]].

{{-}}{{anchor|SSMultipack}}
[[File:TF-SS86-Deluxe-Perceptor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Maybe if I had taken Ratbat’s guns in the movie, Blaster and his buddies wouldn’t have had to come save me!]]
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-a1d1|'''Autobot Perceptor / Ratbat / Ramhorn''' (Multi-pack, [[2025]])}}</ul>
:*''Movie'': '''''The Transformers: The Movie'''''
:*''Accessories'': Blaster
{{toydesigner|[[Evan Brooks]] (Hasbro), [[Shogo Hasui]] (TakaraTomy)}}<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viJopRdWtZA Transformers panel] at [[Megacon Orlando#2025|Megacon Orlando 2025]], with [[Emily Bader]] and [[Evan Brooks]]}}</ref>

:Released as part of a 3-pack with [[Ratbat (G1)/toys#Studio Series|Ratbat]] and [[Ramhorn (G1)#Studio Series|Ramhorn]], this version of Perceptor is a redeco and retool of the above figure, which was done to make him more animation-accurate.<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viJopRdWtZA [[Megacon Orlando#2025|Megacon Orlando 2025]] ''Transformers'' panel with [[Emily Bader]] and [[Evan Brooks]], recorded at the "V-man" YouTube channel.</ref> The red portion of the robot torso is entirely new (and appears to be a painted piece sharing a mold with Ramhorn's parts), now with a panel covering the gap behind the head, plus new longer biceps. An unfortunate side effect of the new chest is that the tank mode of the previous release can no longer properly tab together, resulting in its exclusion from this release's instructions.<ref>https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/studio-series-transformers-the-movie-perceptor-ratbat-and-ramhorn.1278995/ In-hand review of the figure from TFW2005 user ziltama</ref> He comes with the same blaster as before. Interestingly, the new instructions show a different way of orientating the legs and upper thighs, causing him to lean slightly forward in his alt mode, as opposed to the previous mold.

:Perceptor was revealed at [[Toy Fair|New York Toy Fair]] 2025 and released in a [[Target]]-exclusive 3-pack as part of the “MTMTE Collection” with the aforementioned Ratbat and Ramhorn figures, homaging the scene in ''The Transformers: The Movie'' when they fought.
{{--}}

===''Generations Selects''===
[[File:Behold Galvatron Perceptor.JPG|thumb|200px|You almost need a microscope to actually ''see'' this one.]]{{anchor|War for Cybertron Trilogy}}
* '''Behold, Galvatron! Unicron Companion Pack''' (Leader Class, 2022)
:''[[Generations Selects (toyline)|Generations Selects]]'' Perceptor is a non-transforming and immobile [[Slug figure|minifigure]], barely 10mm tall, scaled to interact with the immense [[Unicron/toys#War for Cybertron Trilogy|''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' Unicron]] figure and its clear display base. This was one of a set of 14 minifigures in the "Unicron Companion Pack" that was included with the [[Galvatron (G1)/toys#BeholdGalvatron|"reformatting" version of Galvatron]]. The set was [[exclusive]] to [[Hasbro Pulse]].
{{--}}

===''Transformers Retro''===
[[File:TF-Retro-Perceptor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Smoke gets in his eye.]]
*'''Perceptor''' (2023)
**''Accessories:'' 2 Blasters

:The original ''Generation 1'' Perceptor toy was reissued by Walmart once again in 2023, this time under the branding of ''[[Transformers Retro]]''. However, this release, which was given specific ''The Transformers: The Movie'' branding, gives the mold a redeco with colors based on his original cartoon character model. Although every previous incarnation of this mold has featured a working microscope, with the Retro version Hasbro decided to give the microscope a semi-opaque grey lens, rendering it useless. However, the instructions ''do'' show directions for using the microscope, making this change even odder. On a similar note, the instructions don't include Perceptor's third "mobile laboratory"/"artillery emplacement" mode, possibly due to it not being present in the G1 cartoon and movie. As the mold itself remains unchanged, though, he can still transform into it.

:Perceptor’s design on the packaging is ''very'' loosely based on the [[Studio Series|''Studio Series'' {{'}}86]] figure above in robot mode and on the lower section of the microscope, with the upper half being based on the G1 toy.
{{--}}

==Merchandise==
===Decoy===
[[File:Decoy Perceptor.jpg|upright=1|thumb|Red and rubbery with science!]]
*'''Cybertron Hero Collection 22''' (Decoy multi-pack, 1985)
:Perceptor was among the many characters rendered by [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] as part of their series of 1.5" soft rubber ''keshigomu'' figurines. Like all the figures in the series, Perceptor featured a number sculpted into his back that was the sum total of his [[Tech Spec]]s, for use in the various games that could be played with the figurines. He was available in red as part of a 22-piece box set of Autobot figures, in peach as part of various other randomly-packed box sets released by Takara subsidiary [[Seven]], and in a wide variety of different colors in "gachapon" capsule machines.

*'''Perceptor''' (Decoy, 1987)
**''Decoy number'': 30
:The Perceptor figurine was later brought over to [[Hasbro]] markets as part of the [[Decoy]] promotion, largely identical to the Japanese release except for the fact that the number on his back was replaced with a simple "checklist" number. Like all Autobot Decoys, he was a randomly-chosen pack-in available with the carded [[Throttlebot]]s, [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]], [[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobots]], and [[Technobot (G1)|Technobot]]s.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/1986/Autobot/Decoys/Perceptor/perceptor.htm More information on decoy Perceptor at TFU.info]''
{{--}}

===''Super Collection Figure''===
[[File:SCF Perceptor.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
*'''Perceptor''' (2002)
**''Act'': '''7'''
**''Accessories'': Stand
:''[[Heroes of Cybertron|Super Collection Figure]]'' Perceptor is a non-transforming three-inch tall figure, released [[blindpacking|blindpacked]] in the ''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: Victory (franchise)|Victory]]''-themed "Act 7" of the line (which, given Perceptor had an [[Ginrai Dies!!|extended cameo]] in the [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: Victory (cartoon)|''Victory'' cartoon]], makes sense). He came in both full color and painted-pewter versions, each packed one per case of twelve. Bizarrely, the color version has a red left hand, which is even reflected in the packaging photography.

:The pewter version of the figure has a potential problem with connector peg breakage, due to said pegs often getting a layer of pewter paint before being forced into a socket, leading to sticking and tearing. Care should be used when moving or removing the arms; shaving down the socket interior with a thin hobby knife is usually sufficient to fix the issue. On top of that, the short peg for his shoulder-mounted microscope assembly needs to be shaved down slightly to fit into the extremely shallow hole on his shoulder.

:The pewter version of Perceptor was packed with the [[Star Saber (G1)#Super Collection Figure|Victory Saber]] rifle. This part could also be in either full color or pewter, packed at a ratio of eight color parts to two pewters.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2002/Cybertron/SCFPerceptor/perceptor.htm More information on ''Super Collection Figure'' Perceptor at TFU.info]''
::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2002/Cybertron/PewterPerceptor/perceptor.htm More information on pewter ''Super Collection Figure'' Perceptor at TFU.info]''
{{--}}

===''Heroes of Cybertron''===
[[File:HOC Perceptor.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
*'''Perceptor''' (2003)
:Perceptor was released in the fourth wave of the ''[[Heroes of Cybertron]]'', casting the ''Super Collection Figure'' mold in clear blue plastic painted over, leaving the eyes and back of the head unpainted to attempt a [[light-piping]] gimmick. This release also correctly colors his left hand dark gray. There is still a slight issue with the incredibly shallow peg/hole combo that holds his shoulder-scope on, so some slight paint-shaving might be needed to keep it in place.

:He was released on a separate card instead of a blindpacked box, and came with the head and sword of the [[Fortress Maximus (G1)#Heroes of Cybertron|Fortress Maximus]] build-a-figurine.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2002/Autobot/HoCPerceptor/perceptor.htm More information on ''Heroes of Cybertron'' Perceptor at TFU.info]''
{{--}}

===''Robot Heroes''===
[[File:Robotheroesperceptorhardshell.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Now competing on "Iron Chemist".]]
*'''Perceptor & Hardshell''' (Two-pack, 2008)
{{toydesigner|[[Bill Rawley]] (Hasbro)|[[Marcelo Matere]] (concept artist)}}

:Part of the fourth wave of ''[[Transformers: Universe (2008 toyline)|Universe]] [[Robot Heroes (toyline)|Robot Heroes]]'', Perceptor is a super-cute figure packed versus [[Bombshell (G1)#Robot Heroes|Hardshell]] as part of the "Generation 1 Series".
{{--}}

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2009/Autobot/RHPerceptor/perceptor.htm More information on ''Robot Heroes'' Perceptor at TFU.info]''
{{--}}

===''Tiny Titans''===
[[File:TinyTitans Perceptor.jpg|upright=1.67|thumb]]
*'''Perceptor''' (Tiny Titans, 2016)
**''Series'': '''5'''
**''Number'': '''10/12'''

:Part of the fifth assortment of ''[[Tiny Titans]]'' [[blindpacking|blindpacks]], this version of Perceptor is a very small, soft-plastic figure of him in robot mode, kneeling with a sniper rifle, recalling his [[IDW Publishing|IDW]] incarnation.

:He includes a collectible card that renders him in the [[Transformers: Robots in Disguise (2015 franchise)|2015 ''Robots in Disguise'']] styling. The card includes a scan-badge for the [[Transformers: Robots in Disguise (mobile game)|''Robots in Disguise'' mobile game]], which unlocks a random amount of Energon "currency" and a randomized bonus power-up item.
{{-}}

===''Transformers Figure Collection''===
[[File:TF-Transformers-Figure-Collection-Perceptor-Decoy.jpg|thumb]]
*'''Perceptor''' (01–2016)
:Standing 42 mm tall, ''Transformers Figure Collection'' Perceptor is a non-poseable soft-rubber figure based on his [[Decoy]] figure.
{{--}}

===''Transformers Trading Card Game''===
[[File:W4PPerceptor.jpg|thumb]]
*'''Perceptor, Precise Sniper''' (2020)
**'''Wave 5P: Titan Masters Attack'''
**''Rarity: '''''RT'''
**''Card Number: '''''P06/2020'''
**''Stars: ''8
:This card's set was originally scheduled for an April 2020 release, however due to the global COVID-19 pandemic the release was pushed back to May 29, 2020.
{{-}}

===''ReAction''===
[[File:Reaction Perceptor.jpg|thumb|]]
*'''Perceptor''' (2020)
**''Accessories'': Concussion rifle

: Released in the third wave of [[Super7]]'s line of multi-property 3.75-inch "retro" action figures, ''[[ReAction]]'' Perceptor is a non-converting 3 3/4-inch action figure based on his appearance in the original cartoon, with 5 points of articulation (swivel neck, shoulders, hips) and holes in his feet for use with some variety of stand.

: As with all releases in the ''ReAction'' toyline, Perceptor comes packaged on a small cardback that emulates the nostalgic packaging style of [[Kenner]]'s ''[[Star Wars (franchise)|Star Wars]]'' action figures from the late 1970s to early '80s.

{{-}}{{anchor|ReActionMC20}}
*'''MC-20 Microscope''' (2020)
**''Accessories'': Concussion rifle

: As a special "[[Black Friday (event)|Black Friday]]" exclusive, ''ReAction'' Perceptor got a [[black repaint]] based on the original ''[[Micro Change]]'' "MC-20 Micro Scope" toy that pre-dated the ''Transformers'' "Perceptor" release. AKA "[[Magnificus (G1)|Magnificus]]" colors. Why he didn't get the name (and a Decepticon logo to go with it) is anyone's guess.

: This figure was only available through Super7's website.
{{-}}

==Notes==
* At [[Toy Fair 2013]], ''Kre-O'' Perceptor was shown having more or less [[Bombshell (G1)#Kre-O|Hardshell]]'s alt-mode. Why? Lord knows.

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Classics Autobots]]
[[Category:Decoys]]
[[Category:Generation 1 toy Autobots]]
[[Category:Generations]]
[[Category:Kre-O Autobots]]
[[Category:Kreons]]
[[Category:Legends Autobots]]
[[Category:Platinum Edition]]
[[Category:Robot Heroes]]
[[Category:Studio Series Autobots]]
[[Category:TakaraTomy Mall exclusives]]
[[Category:Titans Return Autobots]]
[[Category:Toys"R"Us exclusives]]
[[Category:Transformers with three modes]]
[[Category:United Autobots]]
[[Category:Universe (2008)]]
[[Category:Universe Autobots]]

Transformers (2023) issue 22

2025-07-10T17:29:00Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #22
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 21
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 23
|image=Transformers 2023 22 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[July 9]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=July 2025
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Jorge Corona]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''Humans come to the aid of the Autobots as Megatron prepares to make his final assault on the planet Earth. But Optimus Prime may have an even stranger journey ahead of him...'''

==Synopsis==
Gravely wounded by the blast from [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] and the [[Autobot]]s crash back down to [[Earth]], with [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] in particular falling unconscious. Exhausted and struggling to stay moving, all hope seems lost until the arrival of [[Doctor Lio]] and the residents of [[Farmingham]]. After all that the Autobots have done to help and protect them, the community has now come together to help them, loading the injured Autobots onto several tractor trailers.

On [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] reveals to [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] that they have repaired [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]'s portal to Earth, but that they only have enough power to send back one individual. To his surprise, Elita has chosen Cliffjumper to be that bot. Cliff asks about [[Shredhead]], but Elita believes their power will be better served helping them take Cybertron back from the [[Decepticon]]s. She leaves to allow Cliffjumper to say his goodbyes to Shredhead, but Cliffjumper tells Shredhead to say hello to [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] for him before pushing them through the portal instead. As the portal overloads and explodes, a furious Elita orders [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] to put Cliffjumper in chains, calling him a traitor.

[[File:TF2023 no. 22 - Hall of the Primes.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
As the Autobots arrive in Farmingham, Prime awakens. He is immediately concerned that their presence will put the humans in danger, but both [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] and Lio insist that they need their help right now. Lio brings Optimus to one of the tents they've set up outside the [[Farmingham Hospital]], revealing that the [[Coast Guard]] found the body of [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] in the [[Pacific Ocean]]. Optimus takes a moment to mourn his lost friend, but then keels over in pain, the [[Matrix of Leadership]] flying out of his chest. When [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] asks what's wrong, Wheeljack reveals that Prime's spark is going out, with the infection from Megatron's arm blocking his connection to the Matrix and preventing the artifact from being able to recharge. Believing this to be the end, Optimus asks that one of the other Autobots take the Matrix and his place as leader. However, he looks over to see Spike reaching his hand into the Matrix, just as [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparky]] did before. Spike then reaches his other hand out to touch Optimus's. Their eyes both glow bright blue with energy… and Optimus finds himself awakening in the [[Hall of the Primes]]!

Meanwhile, Megatron and [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] pursue the Autobots through the woods, coming across the site where Optimus first noticed Earth's beauty. Megatron discovers where Optimus had buried a dead deer. Megatron mocks Prime's soft heartedness, though admits that he understands his admiration for the Earth, for it reminds him of how glorious Cybertron was before the war led to its destruction. Crushing the remains of the deer, Megatron orders the search be called off. The Decepticons then mobilize for the attack, launching an assault on a number of nearby aircraft carriers just as the [[United States military]] prepares their own attack. The human soldiers are easily dispatched by [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] wielding Megatron and the combined might of [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] and [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]], who have turned the slaughter of humanity into a competition.

Inside the secret facility, [[General Flagg]] interrogates Carly, trying to figure out what she knows about the [[Transformer]]s, but Carly is unable to offer anything useful. Meanwhile, [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] continues to be examined and tortured by the facility's scientists, but [[Doc (G.I. Joe)|Doc]] has had enough of this and decides to help Magnus, deactivating the machines and freeing Magnus from his restraints. Magnus tears through the facility and grabs both Doc and Carly as he escapes. Flagg orders the soldiers to stop him, but their weapons are ineffectual. Once they are far enough away, Magnus lets Doc out of his chest cab. He asks Doc why he freed him, leading Doc to reveal that he was once a prisoner of war like him, tortured in the process. Magnus asks how he is able to go on living after that, but Doc simply says that he has people that need him. He has to keep going for their sake. His words give Magnus a renewed sense of purpose, and he transforms and rolls out to rejoin the people who need him.

In Farmingham, Optimus and Spike are still connected via the Matrix, both unconscious as though in a dream-like state. However, they have to find some way to transport them both, as the [[United States of America|United States]] government has ordered all residents to head east towards [[Chicago]], where they plan to make their final stand against the Decepticons.

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] (1)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (2)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (3)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (4)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (5)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (6)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (7)
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (8)
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (9)
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (10)
* [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (11)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (15)
* [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] (16)
* [[Shredhead]] (17)
* [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] (18)
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] (19)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (38)

|c2=
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (26)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (27)
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (33)
* [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] (34)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (35)

|c3=
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (12)
* [[Doctor Lio]] (13)
* [[Farmingham]] Residents (14)
* [[Eagle Group Commander]] (28)
* [[Eagle Three]] (29)
* [[Eagle Two]] (30)
* [[Eagle Five]] (31)
* Soldiers (32)
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (36)
* [[General Flagg]] (37)
* Scientist (39)
* [[Doc (G.I. Joe)|Doc]] (40)

|h4=Others|c4=
* [[Nexus Prime]] (20)
* [[Liege Maximo]] (21)
* [[Quintus Prime]] (22)
* [[Solus Prime]] (23)
* [[Maccadam|Alchemist Prime]] (24)
* [[Prima]] (25)
* [[Quintus Prime]] (26)
}}

==Quotes==
"When will this all be over? When will the hurt cease? It is... endless..."
:—'''Optimus Prime'''

"Even I can see how amazing this planet is. Its beauty reminds me of our home. How it used to be. I remember its glory well. All I have ever wanted was to bring our planet back to that harsh, angular splendor. But achieving that dream takes '''sacrifice'''."
:—'''Megatron'''

"It's alright. I'm not going to hurt you. I'm not going to hurt anyone. But I do have to help someone."
:—'''Doc'''

"Why? Why did you free me?" 
"I was where you were once, a captive. Tortured." 
"How do you stand now? How do you live?" 
"I...have people that need me. They keep me going. Don't you have anyone like that?" 
"Yes. I do."
:—'''Doc''' restores '''Ultra Magnus'''' purpose.

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Doctor Lio finally gets a name after first appearing way back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 4|issue #4]]. He, along with the Farmingham militia, were last seen in [[Transformers (2023) issue 9|issue #9]], which means they've been absent for ''just over a full year'' in real-time.
* Farmingham Hospital is still damaged from both Starscream's assault in issue #4 and from when [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] arrived to take Spike captive in issue #9.
* Ratchet was mortally wounded taking a blast meant for Optimus in issue #9.
* Sparky entered the Matrix in [[Transformers (2023) issue 6|issue #6]].
* We learned in [[Transformers (2023) issue 20|issue #20]] that the Matrix contained the spirits of past Primes, though Optimus said at the time that he couldn't commune with them through it. We couldn't help but note this seemingly-deliberate contradiction with the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Sunbow cartoon]], which the Energon Universe as a whole takes heavy inspiration from, and ''wouldn't you know it...''
* This issue reveals that Optimus buried the deer he accidentally stepped on in [[Transformers (2023) issue 2|issue #2]]. The panel of Megatron cradling the deer carcass also mirrors a panel of Optimus holding the deer from the same issue.
* Megatron recalls his trial at the hands of [[Dezimir]] from before the war, which we saw in [[Transformers (2023) issue 19|issue #19]].
* The Eagle Group commander mentions [[Frosting]], the fighter pilot killed by Starscream in issue #2.
* Carly mentions that the U.S. military bombed [[Orcas Island]] when they captured her and Magnus back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 18|issue #18]]. This gives us a more concrete location for where Magnus built his ramshackle fort, with the issue only captioning the location as "[[San Juan Islands]]".
* Ultra Magnus’s antennas have returned to being white.

===Transformers references===
* Optimus's near-death is composed in such a way as to mirror his iconic deathbed scene from ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.
* Optimus's eyes are colored yellow when in the Hall of Primes, a reference to his original toy.
* The Hall of Primes features statues of the [[Thirteen|original Thirteen Primes]], drawn based on their [[Aligned continuity family]] designs as featured in the ''[[Transformers: The Covenant of Primus]]'' book. Though their identities are as-of-yet unconfirmed, they appear to be based on [[Solus Prime]], [[Alchemist Prime]], [[Prima]], and [[Quintus Prime]].
* The [[Transformation#The noise|sound effect]] of Ultra Magnus transforming is rendered in onomatopoeia, specifically using the same rendering as was previously used in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 6|#6]].
* Chicago has appeared in multiple pieces of ''Transformers'' media up to this point, but the way it's been positioned here seems to be closely inspired by its appearance in ''[[Transformers: Dark of the Moon (film)|Transformers: Dark of the Moon]]''.

===Other notes===
* From the letters pages:
** A fan from Germany pleads for [[Blades (G1)|Blades]] to survive in the hopes that [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]] can appear in the comic. [[Ben Abernathy]] gives a quizzical "Hmmm...", while Daniel Warren Johnson excitedly states that he's a fan of Defensor.
** Another fan relates a question posed by the unofficial [https://www.tripletakeover.com/ Triple Takeover Podcast] (which counts noteworthy fan [[Sixo]] among its members), asking if Daniel or [[Robert Kirkman]] had ever considered mixing [[combiner]] teams' members together, akin to the interchangeability of the ''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1986 (Scramble City and 2010)|Scramble City]]'' teams. Ben loves the idea and notes to go Google ''Scramble City'' later, while Daniel kicks himself for not thinking of it.
** In rapid succession, Daniel says he can't confirm if the other Energon Universe comics will cross over with ''Transformers''' main story or if the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobot]]s will be appearing soon, reveals that [[Optimus Primal (BW)|Optimus Primal]] (in both regular and "Optimal" forms) is his favorite ''[[Beast Wars: Transformers (franchise)|Beast Wars]]'' character, and confirms that he ''had'' considered implementing characters from the [[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]], but ultimately decided against it due to there already being ''so many'' characters from the western G1 canon to use.
* Energon Experience: Presented by Skybound Publisher [[Sean Mackiewicz]].
** '''Character Spotlight:''' A brief overview of Elita-1.
** '''Top Gun:''' Eagle Five was drawn to resemble Skybound Executive Editor Ben Abernathy.
** '''Creator Q&A:''' Sean asks artist Jorge Corona what his [[alternate mode]] would be. Corona answers, “a hammock,” complete with a goofy piece of black-and-white art depicting this.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Starscream looks through a window at a group of soldiers, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' The Decepticons attack, by Jorge Corona and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover by [[David Nakayama]].
* '''Cover D:''' Optimus stands over defeated enemies, by [[Manabu Yashiro]].
* '''Cover E:''' Arcee, by [[Pye Parr]].
* '''The 616 Comics Cover A:''' Connecting cover by [[Tiago da Silva]].
* '''The 616 Comics Cover B:''' The other half of Tiago da Silva's connecting cover.
* '''Big Time Collectibles/Black Saber Comics Cover:''' An angry, cannon arm-less Megatron, by [[Shelby Robertson]].
* '''Big Time Collectibles Cover:''' A chibi-fied Soundwave gets tangled up in his cassettes' tape, by [[Freely Abrigo]]. Exclusively available to attendees of [[San Diego Comic-Con]] 2025.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 22 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 22 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 22 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 22 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 22 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 22 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 22 The 616 Comics Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 22 Shelby Robertson Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 22 Freely Abrigo Cover.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisement===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 9|#9]], ''Void Rivals'' [[Void Rivals issue 21|#21]], and ''Transformers'' #23.
* 4-page preview of ''{{w|Universal Monsters}}: {{w|The Invisible Man (1933 film)|The Invisible Man}}''

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' ([[November 26]], [[2025]]) ISBN 1534332588 / ISBN 978-1534332584
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #19–24 and the [[Transformers Energon Universe 2025 Special story|''Transformers'' story]] from ''[[Energon Universe 2025 Special]]''.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V4.jpg|'''''Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 21

2025-07-09T02:03:59Z

Diesel Prime: /* Other trivia */

{{comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #21
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 20
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 22
|image=Transformers 2023 21 Cover B.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[June 11]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=June 2025
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Jorge Corona]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''The Autobots are forced to make difficult choices to survive when the Decepticons launch an all-out assault on the ''Ark''!'''

==Synopsis==
[[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] awakens in the depths of the [[United States military]] facility he's being kept in. The only person around is [[Doc (G.I. Joe)|Carl "Doc" Greer]], whom Magnus tentatively greets, to Doc's surprise. The two converse for a bit before the conversation is interrupted by the arrival of [[General Flagg]] with some sort of machine. Doc asks the general what he plans to do to Magnus, stating he's essentially a prisoner of war, but Flagg ignores his protests as he activates the machine. As the machine begins to whirr, Magnus pleads for them to stop.

[[File:TF2023 no. 21 - Enter Superion.jpg|thumb|left|150px|[[Superion (G1)#Age of the Primes|Coincidence?]] I think not!]]
On [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] checks in with [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] and [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]] as they work to repair [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]'s [[space bridge]], hoping to return to [[Earth]] and bring back [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]. However, because of the damage to the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]'' side, the portal will require quadruple the [[Energon]] necessary to transport all of them; they only have enough to send one [[Autobot]] back. Elita goes to [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] and [[Shredhead]], as the little red bot tells the newly born warrior about his friend [[Carly (G1)|Carly]].

Back on Earth, the [[Decepticon]]s prepare to launch an assault on the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]''. Inside the Autobot base, [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] is examining Optimus, trying to figure out why the [[Matrix of Leadership]] hasn't recharged at all since its last use. As he looks over the scans, he deduces the cause to be some sort of infection coming from [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s arm. However, their examination is interrupted by the Decepticons' attack. The Autobots return fire with the aid of the ''Ark'''s weaponry, managing to even keep the bickering combiners [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] and [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] at bay. As the two sides duke it out, [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] emerges from his hiding place within the ''Ark'' and connects to the console where [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] resides.

The corruptive power of Megatron's arm grows on Optimus, to the point where he involuntarily turns his [[fusion cannon]] on [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]]. However, before he can do anything, Skywarp's teleportation ability activates, teleporting the entire ship to parts unknown and sending the Autobots falling into the caverns of the mountain left behind. The Decepticons converge on the Autobots, but they are saved by the timely intervention of the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbot]]s, who combine into [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] to take on Bruticus and Devastator. As the Autobots try to recover, Optimus realizes what Megatron's arm is doing to him; however, he is unable to remove it himself. He pleads with his troops to shoot it off of him before it is too late, orders they reluctantly follow, wounding their leader in the process. The Autobots then attempt to flee on the back of Superion. Megatron, having regained his lost appendage, transforms into his gun mode and uses Starscream to blast Superion, ripping [[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]] from the gestalt and instantly killing him. The Autobots are forced to leave him behind as they fly away. Megatron tells the Decepticons to prepare for conquest.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (2)
* [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] (5)
* [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] (6)
* [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]] (7)
* [[Shredhead]] (8)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (10)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (15)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (16)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (17)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (18)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (20)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (21)
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (25)
* [[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]] (26)
* [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (27)
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (28)
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (29)
* [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] (30)

|c2=
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (11)
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (12)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (13)
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (14)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (17)
* [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] (22)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (23)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (24)

|c3=
* [[Doc (G.I. Joe)|Doc]] (1)
* [[General Flagg]] (3)
* [[Caparzo]] (4)
* ''[[Carly (G1)|Carly]]'' (9, holographic image)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (19)
}}

==Quotes==
"What are you reading?" 
"It's something that makes me--used to make me feel safe in the face of things too big to comprehend." 
"Like me." 
"Something like that." 
"I was doing the same thing when building my compound. Protecting myself. I wasn't doing anything. To anyone. What are you going to do to me?"
:—'''Ultra Magnus''' and '''Doc'''

"She '''does''' look fragile." 
"Well, yes...Carly's small. Just like me. I'm one of the smallest Autobots there is. But she made me realize how big I really am. How big...'''everything''' is. I wish I was stronger. Bigger." 
"Don't worry, Cliff. I'm strong enough for the both of us. '''And''' Carly."
:—'''Shredhead''' talks with '''Cliffjumper''' about Carly.

"Bruticus! Devastator! Pull your heads out of your scrapholes!" 
"But he said--" 
"'''I DON'T CARE ABOUT YOUR USELESS SQUABBLING!!''' Focus on the '''enemy''', not each other!"
:—'''Megatron''' breaks up '''Bruticus's''' sibling fight with Devastator.

"You are an incredible warrior, Prime. But deep down, I always knew there was weakness inside you."
:—'''Megatron'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* General Flagg first appeared in the Energon Universe in ''[[Destro (comic)|Destro]]'' [[Destro issue 3|#3]], where he gave [[Destro|the titular arms manufacturer]] access to government secrets about [[Duke (G.I. Joe)|Duke]]'s encounter with Starscream from back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 2|issue #2]]. At the time, there was no indication that Flagg had any explicit connections to the G.I. Joe team that [[Hawk (G.I. Joe)|Colonel Hawk]] was assembling, but this issue confirms that he is at least part of the larger organization.
* Shockwave used the space bridge to connect Cybertron and Earth in [[Transformers (2023) issue 9|issue #9]]. Optimus destroyed it to prevent the harvesting of Earth, trapping Elita and Cliffjumper on Cybertron in the process, in [[Transformers (2023) issue 12|issue #12]].
* When last we saw Megatron at the end of the previous issue, his eyes were still damaged, but he's gotten them back this issue. Evidently, he must've had them repaired just after killing [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]].
* Skywarp's teleportation power was previously tapped into in [[Transformers (2023) issue 11|issue #11]] when Wheeljack used it to transport them directly into the brig of the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]''.
* The corrupting influence of Megatron's arm, which the Autobot leader used to replace the one he lost fighting Skywarp in [[Transformers (2023) issue 4|issue #4]], on Optimus has been growing steadily since the events of issue #12. As to ''how'' it's been corrupting Optimus, it can be easily surmised that it's the result of some residual energy from the "dark opposite" to the Matrix bestowed upon Megatron in the issue-long flashback from [[Transformers (2023) issue 19|issue #19]].
* Thundercracker snuck into the ''Ark'' in [[Transformers (2023) issue 17|issue #17]].
* Ultra Magnus’s antennas and Starscream’s new legs are both still blue.
* Superion makes his debut.

===''Transformers'' references===
* This isn't the first time Slingshot has been taken out of the Aerialbots' lineup. Will [[Airazor (Universe)|Airazor]] or [[Alpha Bravo]] get their chance to shine? (Probably not.)
* Soundwave's design on [[Len Nicholas]]'s cover is a dead ringer for his [[Blokees]] ''[[Soundwave (G1)/merchandise#Galaxy Version|Galaxy Version]]'' model kit. Considering the way the cover's drawn and framed, it's likely Nicholas used a photo of the kit as direct reference for the art.

===Real life references===
* Caparzo might be named for the character of Private Adrian Carpazo from ''{{w|Saving Private Ryan}}''.

===Other trivia===
* You guessed it: it's time for "What will Daniel Warren Johnson tease in the letters pages this time?"
** Johnson confirms that he's not planning on introducing another comic-original Decepticon before his time on the series ends.
** In rapid succession, Johnson says he "CANNOT SAY" if we'll know who [[Dezimir]]'s master is before the end of this arc, confirms that the cast is fairly locked-in at this point (but teases "more to come" in [[Transformers (2023) issue 25|issue #25]], the first issue following his departure), de-confirms [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]] due to already having so much combiner representation, and teases Optimus' origins by saying that he didn't have the Matrix when his [[spark]] came into being.
* This issue's back-matter introduces a new feature in the Energon Universe line: a "behind-the-scenes"-esque page called "Energon Experience", headed by editor [[Ben Abernathy]]. In addition to an introduction by Abernathy and a checklist of the Energon Universe issues and trade collections releasing that month, this edition of Energon Experience also has three spotlight sections, which are:
** '''Character Spotlight:''' A brief overview of Ultra Magnus and what's going on with him right now.
** '''Doc's The Name:''' A section on Doc's introduction in issue #20, along with some concept art of him in military garb.
** '''Creator Q&A:''' Ben asks Daniel Warren Johnson what alt-mode he'd turn into if he had one, and Johnson says he'd be a guitar. Quick, someone tell him about [[Laserbeak (Animated)|''Animated'' Laserbeak]]!
* In a funny coincidence, Slingshot's death in this issue comes just a few months after his latest toy in the ''[[Transformers: Age of the Primes|Age of the Primes]]'' was released. Talk about awkward timing...
** It's also not the first time the Aerialbots have specifically lost Slingshot either, as he was killed off in IDW's [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|The Transformers: Robots in Disguise]] in order to market his replacement, the new Aerialbot [[Alpha Bravo|Alpha Bravo]], for the then-upcoming ''[[Combiner Wars (toyline)|Combiner Wars]]'' toyline.
* After Megatron slaps Starscream, the [[seeker]] is shown bleeding some green fluid from his mouth. We know that [[energon]] is pink in this continuity, so what could it be? Optimus does refer to bile at another point in the issue, and Starscream is a rather bilious character...
**However, Ironhide is shown getting injured and leaking a green liquid in the original episode of the franchise. To which he responds “leaking lubricant”. Pointing at the fact that Cybertronians might have more that just Energon in them.
* At different points, Bruticus refers to Devastator as 'they' (page 8) and 'he' (page 11), so the pronouns of combiners remain unclear.
* Warpath makes a throwaway comment about being tickled. This throws up a bizarre mental image, as one wonders how a [[Cybertronian]] could be tickled.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Shredhead, Cliffjumper, and Elita One, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' Optimus gets Megatron's arm blown off, by Jorge Corona and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover by [[David Nakayama]].
* '''Cover D:''' The Decepticons, by [[Derrick Chew.]]
* '''Cover E:''' Starscream in jet mode, by [[Pye Parr]].
* '''Cover F:''' Energon Universe Anniversary connecting cover, by [[Jason Howard]] and [[Annalisa Leoni]].
* '''Cover G:''' Energon Universe Anniversary connecting cover (black and white), by Jason Howard.
* '''The 616 Comics Cover A:''' Connecting cover by [[Tiago da Silva]].
* '''The 616 Comics Cover B:''' The other half of Tiago da Silva's connecting cover.
* '''MBartist Cover:''' Chibi-style versions of Soundwave, Laserbeak, [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]], and [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]], by Len Nicholas.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 21 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 21 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 21 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 21 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 21 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 21 Cover F.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 21 Cover G.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 21 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 21 The 616 Comics Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 21 MBartist Cover.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 8|#8]], ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 20|#20]], and ''Transformers'' #22.
* Energon Experience feature
* 4-page preview of ''Ghost Pepper''

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' ([[November 25]], [[2025]]) ISBN 1534332588 / ISBN 978-1534332584 
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #19–24 and the [[Transformers Energon Universe 2025 Special story|''Transformers'' story]] from ''[[Energon Universe 2025 Special]]''.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V4.jpg|'''''Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer
</gallery>

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Void Rivals issue 20

2025-07-02T04:50:25Z

Diesel Prime: /* Notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Void Rivals]]'' #20
|prev=Void Rivals issue 19
|next=Void Rivals issue 21
|image=Void Rivals 20 Cover A.jpg
|caption=Looks like the Void Rivals are fighting. Again.
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[June 25]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=June 2025
|written by=[[Robert Kirkman]]
|art by=[[Conor Hughes]]
|colors by=[[Patricio Delpeche]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''Darak and Solila have reunited! But knowing what they each know, will they be able to work together and save both the Sacred Ring and their people?'''

==Synopsis==
Though Minister [[Dulin]] has ordered [[Darak]] to kill [[Solila]], Darak suggests simply talking things out. Dulin, obstinate as ever, orders his guards to do what his son will not. Solila, now empowered by [[Beta (G1)|Zerta Trion]] to control the [[Sacred Ring]], makes short work of the guards with her new armor and abilities, though is careful not to kill any. Solila then faces Dulin and removes her helmet, telling him that her quarrel is not with the people of [[Agorria]], only with those who seek to prevent unity, ordering him to yield or die. Dulin refuses to yield, but as Solila prepares to attack, she is blasted by Darak, who pleads with her to stop and talk. More guards enter the chamber and surround Solila as the door locks them all inside. However, once more they prove no match for Solila. The [[Zertonian]] asks Darak why he no longer believes in unity, and Darak reveals that Dulin told him about what was in the sacred texts.

Meanwhile, aboard the [[Skuxxoid Asteroid Base]], [[Skuxxoid Alpha]] sends the two recently recovered Skuxxoids to “processing,” where his robots examine them. One of the robots is intrigued at the older Skuxxoid's scars, wonder how it hasn't healed by now. The younger Skuxxoid is ordered sent to “priority processing,” causing him to panic, not wanting to be separated from his older counterpart. When Scarred Skuxxoid tries to intervene, he is punished with electroshocks from the robots.

On [[Junkion (planet)|Junkion]], [[Akronus]] ponders what he will do with his [[Royal Guard]] armor now dead. [[Wreck-Gar (G1)|Wreck-Gar]] says that [[Junkion (species)|his people]] would be happy to help him, but Akronus is offended at the idea of using mechanical tools.

Back on Agorria, Darak and Dulin reveal what the sacred texts say about the return of [[Goliant]] and the destruction of the Sacred Ring, prompting Solila to reveal what she's learned from Zerta firsthand. While Dulin is incredulous about the prospect of freeing the beast, Solila insists that it is necessary to destroy him. However, Darak points out that while freeing Goliant from the black hole might be necessary for Zerta's plan, that plan focuses more on Goliant's destruction than the survival of their people.

Elsewhere, [[Zalilak]] communes with Zerta, who tells him to assist Solila in her mission to bring about unity, sensing that she will need his strength to stay the course. He wakes up surrounded by Mistress [[Vill]] and the [[Keeper of the Light|Keepers of the Light]]. The Keepers outfit Zalilak with new armor, as he is reborn for his new purpose.

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|h2=[[Cobra-La]]|c2=
* [[Akronus]] (10)

|h4=[[Agorrian]]s|c4=
* [[Darak]] (3)
* [[Dulin]] (4)
* Guards (5)

|h5=[[Zertonian]]s|c5=
* [[Solila]] (1)
* [[Zalilak]] (12)
* [[Vill]] (13)
* [[Keeper of the Light|Keepers of the Light]] (14)

|h6=Others|c6=
* Red [[Handroid]] (2)
* Blue Handroid (4)
* [[Skuxxoid Alpha]] (6)
* Scarred [[Skuxxoid]] (7)
* New Skuxxoid (8)
* Mysterious robots (9)
* [[Wreck-Gar (G1)|Wreck-Gar]] (11)
}}

==Quotes==
"You were on my side-- as committed to unity as I was. What changed, Darak?" 
"'''I TALKED TO [[Dulin|HIM]]!''' Maybe you could try it?"
:—'''Solila''' and '''Darak'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* This issue resumes the main plot left off in [[Void Rivals issue 18|issue #18]].
* Scarred Skuxxoid recounts his ordeal with [[Pythona]] from [[Void Rivals issue 16|issue #16]].
* Solila learned the truth of Goliant and the Sacred Ring from Zerta Trion in [[Void Rivals issue 17|issue #17]], while Darak learned his version from Dulin in issue #18.
* Solila references Darak hearing Zerta's voice, which we saw all the way back in [[Void Rivals issue 2|issue #2]].
* Zalilak communes with Zerta the same way that Solila did in [[Void Rivals issue 10|issue #10]].

===Other notes===
* Energon Experience:
** '''Character Spotlight:''' [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]]!
** '''Who's That Bot?:''' A highlight on the robot hunter that first started trailing the Skuxxoid back in the [[Void Rivals Energon Universe 2024 Special story]].
** '''Creator Q&A:''' Which Void Rivals character would be Robert Kirkman's best friend and worst enemy?

===Errors===
* In the Energon Experience section Skuxxoid, Lord Gyconi, Bosch, and Slizardo are referenced as season 3 characters. However, Skuxxoid is the only character who is from season 3. While Slizardo does appear in season 3, he along with the two others first appeared in season 2 episode 31 'The Gambler".

===Covers (5)===
* '''Cover A:''' Solila attacking Darak, by [[Lorenzo De Felici]].
* '''Cover B:''' Skuxxoid, by Conor Hughes.
* '''Cover C (1:10 Copy Incentive):''' Connecting cover, by [[Martín Morazzo]] and Patricio Delpeche.
* '''Cover D (1:25 Copy Incentive):''' Hot Rod and Darak do some blasting, by [[Mark Torres]].
* '''Cover E (1:50 Copy Incentive):''' Darak, by [[Patricia Martín]].
* '''Cover F:''' Energon Universe Anniversary connecting cover, by [[Jason Howard]] and [[Annalisa Leoni]].
* '''Cover G:''' Energon Universe Anniversary connecting cover (black and white), by Jason Howard.

<gallery>
File:Void Rivals 20 Cover A.jpg|
File:Void Rivals 20 Cover B.jpg|
File:Void Rivals 20 Cover C.jpg|
File:Void Rivals 20 Cover D.jpg|
File:Void Rivals 20 Cover E.jpg|
File:Void Rivals 20 Cover F.jpg|
File:Void Rivals 20 Cover G.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Explore the Energon Universe in [[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]] [[Transformers (2023) issue 22|#22]], ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 9|#9]] and ''Void Rivals'' #21.
* 4-page preview of Ghost Pepper

===Reprints===
* '''''Void Rivals Volume 4: First Chosen''''' ([[December 9]], [[2025]]) ISBN 1534329536 / ISBN 978-1534329539 
** Collects issues #19-24.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Void Rivals V4.jpg|'''''Volume 4: First Chosen''''' - cover art by Lorenzo De Felici
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Void Rivals issues]]

G.I. Joe (2024) issue 8

2025-06-30T04:13:41Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' #8
|prev=G.I. Joe (2024) issue 7
|next=G.I. Joe (2024) issue 9
|image=G.I. Joe 2024 8 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[June 18]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=June 2025
|written by=[[Joshua Williamson]]
|art by=[[Andrea Milana]]
|colors by=[[Lee Loughridge]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editors=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|production design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''Baroness and Cover Girl find themselves as prey while on what was supposed to be a relaxing Parisian getaway.'''

==Synopsis==
Alarms blare in [[Pit (G.I. Joe)|the Pit]], secret headquarters of [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]]. [[Cover Girl]] and [[Risk (G.I. Joe)|Risk]] sneak down a hallway, knowing they are getting closer to finding the [[Baroness]]. Unbeknownst to them, the Baroness is hiding in the rafters above and easily sneaks up on Cover Girl, knocking her down and shooting her in the chest with her paintball gun. As she stands above the “dead” Cover Girl, to pose and gloat, Risk tags her himself. With their training exercise complete, [[Duke (G.I. Joe)|Duke]] tells Baroness that her head wasn't in the game, and that could cost them in a real fight.

At [[Cobra]] headquarters, [[Destro]] and [[Cobra Commander]] discuss recent events with the [[Transformer|alien robot]]s in [[Seattle]], with the Commander even revealing some vague details about his own history with the machines. The Commander and Destro agree that they aren't ready to get involved in the robots' conflict. Destro suggests sending [[Mercer]] to Seattle to recover any pieces of technology they can use, but the Commander is far more interested in acquiring an intact specimen.

Meanwhile, [[Clutch (G.I. Joe)|Clutch]] returns to the Pit with [[Hound (G1)|Hound]]. Though the [[Autobot]] would like to explore more of [[Earth]], Clutch insists that they have to keep him hidden, fearing what will happen if the rest of the Joes discover him. However, he is startled by the sudden appearance of Duke, who questions Clutch about the “new car”; nervously, Clutch claims it's his new pet project. Duke can tell something is off with Clutch, but assumes he's just rattled after his experience in Cobra, offering to let him take some time off to recover. This annoys the Baroness, as she isn't allowed to leave the Pit. She begs Duke for 48 hours of leave, which Duke reluctantly agrees to. When the Baroness arrives at her private plane later, however, she learns that her leave will not be unsupervised: Cover Girl is tagging along. Though the Baroness insists she doesn't need a babysitter, Cover Girl reveals that she agrees with her, the Joes do need some R&R.

Arriving in [[Paris]], Courtney is excited, asking the Baroness what she wants to do first, but she's already given her chaperone the slip, zooming down the Parisian streets on a motorcycle until she arrives at a café with a waiter already expecting her. Cover Girl arrives minutes later, having put a tracker in the Baroness' boot on the plane. The Baroness reveals the real reason she asked for time away was to see her parents, who are dining at another restaurant across the street to celebrate their anniversary. However, when Courtney suggests going over to see them, Anastasia refuses, not wanting to spoil her parents' time.

Suddenly, a cast of falcons descends on the cafe, pecking and scratching at the customers before turning their attention to the pair of heroines. Anastasia asks Courtney to help her parents, but not let them see her. However, they are stopped by the arrival of the man controlling the birds: [[Raptor (G.I. Joe)|Raptor]]! The avian adversary delivers a message to the Baroness — [[Major Bludd]] demands her audience.

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|h1=[[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]]|c1=
* [[Cover Girl]] (1)
* [[Risk (G.I. Joe)|Risk]] (2)
* [[Baroness]] (3)
* [[Duke (G.I. Joe)|Duke]] (4)
* [[Stalker (G.I. Joe)|Stalker]] (5)
* [[Clutch (G.I. Joe)|Clutch]] (12)

|h2=[[Cobra]]|c2=
* [[Destro]] (6)
* [[Cobra Commander]] (7)

|h3=Others|c3=
* ''[[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]]'' (8, on screen)
* ''[[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]'' (9, on screen)
* ''[[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]'' (10, on screen)
* [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] (11)
* Baroness' pilot (13)
* Baroness' flight attendant (14)
* Café host (15)
* Café waiter (16)
* [[Major Bludd]] (17)
* Mr. Cisarovna (18)
* Mrs. Cisarovna (19)
* [[Raptor (G.I. Joe)|Raptor]] (20)
}}

==Quotes==
"You stopped to ''pose'', Baroness. Always a mistake."
:—'''Risk'''

"What a treat for you. Riding on a private jet for the first time." 
"First time? Baroness, please. I was a model before I enlisted, remember? Had shoots all over. I've been flown around the world on quite a few private jets. My favorite being the Gulfstream G650ER. Hell, I’ve even flown in [[Air Force One]] a few times. Let me tell you, ''that'' is luxury. Yours is cute, tho."
:—'''Baroness''' and '''Cover Girl'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Cobra Commander and Destro watch footage of the brawl between Bruticus and Devastator from ''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[Transformers (2023) issue 18|#18]].
* Cobra Commander reveals to Destro that he once had possession of a "[[Megatron (G1)|damaged robot]]" but that he no longer has access to [[Cobra-La|its location]]. However, the Commander is unaware that Megatron freed himself from Cobra-La during the [[Transformers Energon Universe 2024 Special story|''Transformers'' portion]] of the ''[[Energon Universe 2024 Special]]'', has since taken back control of the [[Decepticon]]s in [[Transformers (2023) issue 20|''Transformers'' #20]], and shows up almost immediately in the area the footage he is watching is from.
* We saw our first glimpse at the Baroness's parents in ''[[Duke (comic)|Duke]]'' [[Duke issue 3|#3]], when Duke filled Clutch in on the Baroness’s history.
** Speaking of, how exactly does an internationally wanted war criminal in the custody of the United States government still have access to private planes with their own staff, especially if she isn’t in contact with her parents?
* Cover Girl's history as a model was first alluded to in [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 1|the first issue]].

===''G.I. Joe'' references===
* Major Bludd is shown writing a poem, referencing his usual love of poetry from the [[Marvel Comics|Marvel]] ''[[G.I. Joe (comic)|A Real American Hero]]'' series.
* Raptor is a character that originated in the 1987 line of ''A Real American Hero'' toys. His appearance here is based on his ''G.I. Joe: Classified Series'' figure.

===Real-life references===
* Cover Girl mentions the {{w|Gulfstream G650/G700/G800|Gulfstream G650ER}}, a class of large business jet favored by tech billionaires such as {{w|Bill Gates}}, {{w|Mark Zuckerberg}}, and {{w|Jeff Bezos}}.
* The falcons attacking multiple civilians in the streets has a similar vibe to Alfred Hitchcock's ''{{w|The Birds (film)|The Birds}}.

===Errors===
* The host at the café's dialogue misspells Anastasia's last name as "Cisaronva."

===Other notes===
* Energon Experience:
** '''Character Spotlight:''' A brief overview of the Baroness and what happened to her in the issue you just read.
** '''Transformation:''' Confirmation that the object Cobra Commander unlocked from the [[Brainwave Scanner]] in [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 6|issue #6]] was a [[transformation cog]].
** '''Creator Q&A:''' Ben asks Joshua Williamson what his G.I. Joe codename would be. Williamson answers “BURNOUT”.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Baroness leaves G.I. Joe, by Tom Reilly.
* '''Cover B:''' A target is locked on Baroness, by Andrea Milana.
* '''Cover C (1:10 Copy Incentive):''' Connecting cover, by [[Alan Quah]].
* '''Cover D (1:25 Copy Incentive):''' Major Bludd on an explosion background, by [[Marco Farrari]].
* '''Cover E (1:50 Copy Incentive):''' Baroness at a café, by [[Rossi Gifford]].
* '''Cover F (1:100 Copy Incentive):''' Baroness and Major Bludd, by [[Howard Porter]] & [[Romulo Fajardo Jr]].
* '''Cover G:''' Energon Universe Anniversary connecting cover, by [[Jason Howard]] and [[Annalisa Leoni]].
* '''Cover H:''' Energon Universe Anniversary connecting cover (black and white), by Jason Howard.

<gallery>
File:G.I. Joe 2024 8 Cover A.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 8 Cover B.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 8 Cover C.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 8 Cover D.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 8 Cover E.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 8 Cover F.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 8 Cover G.jpg|
File:G.I. Joe 2024 8 Cover H.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 20|#20]], ''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[Transformers (2023) issue 22|#22]], and ''G.I. Joe'' #9.
* 4-page preview of ''Ghost Pepper''

===Reprints===
* '''''G.I. Joe Volume 2: Bludd's Revenge''''' ([[November 19]], [[2025]]) ISBN 1534329900 / ISBN 978-1534329904 
** Collects issues #7–12.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:G.I. Joe 2024 V2.jpg|'''''Volume 2: Bludd's Revenge''''' – cover art by [[Homare]]
</gallery>

[[Category:G.I. Joe (2024) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 20

2025-05-20T19:24:29Z

Diesel Prime: /* Errors */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #20
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 19
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 21
|image=Transformers 2023 20 Cover A.jpg
|caption=Daddy's home.
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[May 14]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=May 2025
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Jorge Corona]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''The Autobots revive allies old and new following the return of Megatron, who has his own scores to settle.'''

==Synopsis==
In the ruins of [[Seattle]], now reunited with the [[Decepticon]]s, [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] prepares to pursue the fleeing [[Autobot]]s. However, he is interrupted by a challenge from [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]], as the furious [[Triple Changer]] finally confronts the object of his hatred. Megatron welcomes the challenge and, even in his injured state, savagely beats Astrotrain and tosses him off a building, mocking him. Astrotrain begs Megatron to go ahead and kill him, but Megatron assures him he still has plans for him.

Elsewhere, [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] has been taken to a secret [[United States military]] site to be studied, though progress is slow as they barely know what they're dealing with. [[Doc (G.I. Joe)|Doc]] talks with a private about having recently seen action while the private mentions that he hasn't heard from his brother, who was serving onboard the [[USS Henry Harrison|USS ''Henry Harrison'']]. He asks Doc if he'll pray for him, but Doc simply states that he doesn't do that anymore.

At the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'', [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] convenes with [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]. Optimus is worried: their forces are spread too thin, and he knows that Megatron will be coming after them as soon as he's reunited the disparate factions of Decepticons. Spike asks Optimus more about the [[Matrix of Leadership]], wondering if [[Sparkplug Witwicky|his dad]] might still be in there somewhere, but Prime confirms that he does not hear the voices of any of the Primes who now reside within it. Optimus confesses that he is worried about a darkness inside him that once overtook him at the start of the war, and fears that he won't be able to find the light; however, Spike reassures him that the light always comes back, just like a sunrise.

The pair's bonding moment is then interrupted by the arrival of [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] and the newly-repaired [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]], who have returned from their mission to recover [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]]. Optimus thanks Silverbolt and welcomes him into the ''Ark'', where the rest of the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbot]]s are finished being repaired. As they come online, the Aerialbots excitedly embrace Optimus. [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] then informs Optimus that he's set up a diagnostic table to examine Prime's visions, as [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] observes them from behind [[Teletraan I|Teletraan-1]].

[[File:TF2023 no. 20 - Megatron Punishes Starscream.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Some things never change.]]
On [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], [[Shredhead]] talks with [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]], who is worried about [[Carly (G1)|Carly]]. Cliffjumper asks Shredhead if they recognize him, and Shredhead says that while their memories are hazy, they do feel a connection from the [[spark]]s that made them. When Cliffjumper tells Shredhead about his concerns for the human that painted the mural on the side of Shredhead's alternate mode, they enthusiastically transform and suggest the pair go rescue her.

Meanwhile, the Decepticons have reconvened on the fragment of Cybertron that fell into the [[Pacific Ocean]]. Megatron reveals that this particular part of their world housed the Beacon of [[Omega Supreme (G1)|The Ancient]], and that he hid raw materials here during the war. He orders [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] brought before him and, using the technology available, fully restores the damaged [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]. Starscream grovels before Megatron in thanks before Megatron proceeds to beat him once more within an inch of his life. He then orders Astrotrain be brought in and transforms into his gun mode. Though Starscream tries to resist, Megatron's will overpowers him and he blasts Astrotrain to smithereens, though this task requires Starscream to unload shot after shot, as Megatron's incomplete state means his gun mode lacks its usual firepower. After transforming back into robot mode, Megatron tells the Autobots to prepare themselves, because he's coming to make himself whole again...

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (8)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (10)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (11)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (12)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (13)
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (14)
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] (15)
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (16)
* [[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]] (17)
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (18)
* [[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]] (19)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (20)
* [[Shredhead]] (23)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (24)

|c2=
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (1)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (2)
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (3)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (4)
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (5)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (21)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (22)
* [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]] (25)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (26)
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (28)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (29)
* [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]] (30)
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] (31)
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]](?) (32)<ref>Seen only from behind and in silhouette. Based on who’s present on Earth and the lack of helicopter rotors, it’s either Swindle or one of the other Constructicons.</ref>

||c3=
* [[Doc (G.I. Joe)|Doc]] (6)
* Private (7)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (9)

|h4=Others|c4=
* ''[[Omega Supreme (G1)|The Ancient]]'' (27)
}}

==Quotes==
"You are weak, Astrotrain. Weak and naive. Naive to think that there is justice in this life. But there's no justice here. Only '''strength'''. And I am the '''definition''' of strength." 
"Ungh..." 
"You were pathetic then. You're pathetic now. A stain on what it means to be a Decepticon." 
"Please... let it end. Just kill me now." 
"Not yet. I still have use for you."
:-'''Megatron''' gives '''Astrotrain''' a dressing-down.

"There is a darkness inside me, Spike. I can't quite tell what it is. No matter how dire our cause has gotten I have always been able to find...'''light'''. Where is it now?" 
"Optimus, look. I know there's not organic life on your planet. But...there are suns all over the galaxy, aren't there? Cybertron must have a sunset. Just like Earth?" 
"I...yes. You are correct." 
"Then there's gotta be a '''sunrise''' at some point."
:-'''Spike Witwicky''' lifts '''Optimus''' out of his funk.

"We must be our own saviors. We must look out for each other. Isn't that right '''Starscream'''?"
:—'''Megatron''' to '''Starscream'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Astrotrain has been on the warpath for Megatron ever since being freed from the brig of the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]'' back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 8|issue #8]].
* Though it isn't officially stated, the military site where Ultra Magnus is being kept is most likely a [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]]-run site given the presence of Doc. What relation this site has to [[Pit (G.I. Joe)|the Pit]] and [[Duke (G.I. Joe)|Duke]]'s team is still unclear.
* The private states that he hasn't heard from his brother serving aboard the USS ''Henry Harrison'', indicating that he doesn't know about the destruction of the aircraft carrier by the Decepticons in issue #8.
* Though it wasn't immediately clear when we last saw him in [[Transformers (2023) issue 18|issue #18]], Spike's appearance here confirms that he's more-or-less fully recovered from being shot in [[Transformers (2023) issue 3|issue #3]], as he's able to walk without any form of assistance.
* We've had winks and nods here and there, but this issue is the first to really broach the topic of the Primes that preceded Optimus. As Optimus doesn't go into much detail about them besides acknowledging their spirits' presence within the Matrix, however, the Energon Universe's incarnation of the Prime lineage remains an enigma.
* While Optimus may not hear the voices of the previous Primes in the Matrix, Sparky entering it has clearly had some effect, as he has been experiencing visions of Sparky's life since issue #8. Optimus also notes that he's having trouble "finding the light", just as Sparky admitted he couldn't in [[Transformers (2023) issue 4|issue #4]], furthering the strengthening connection between the two.
* Jetfire was believed lost after being blasted by the [[space bridge]]'s energy in [[Transformers (2023) issue 9|issue #9]].
* The arrival of the Aerialbots has been ''long'' anticipated, as Daniel Warren Johnson regularly teased their then-forthcoming debut in the letters pages of previous issues.
* Skywarp has been fused with Teletraan-1 after being torn apart by Starscream and Soundwave since [[Transformers (2023) issue 5|issue #5]]. Thundercracker, after abandoning the Decepticons in [[Transformers (2023) issue 16|issue #16]], arrived at the ''Ark'' to try and separate Skywarp from the Autobot computer in [[Transformers (2023) issue 17|issue #17]].
* The Ancient, which fans know to be Omega Supreme, was first seen in the flashbacks of [[Transformers (2023) issue 13|issue #13]], and is once again referred to with gender-neutral pronouns. Prior to that, we had also seen a [[Guardian robot]] in a recording from Megatron in ''[[Cobra Commander (comic)|Cobra Commander]]'' [[Cobra Commander issue 1|#1]].
* Off-panel, Starscream's torso has been separated from the [[H.I.S.S. tank]] it was grafted to in [[Transformers (2023) issue 14|issue #14]].
* We first saw Megatron's gun mode and his ability to impose his will on those who wield it in issues #13 and #14. Just last issue, we learned that these abilities were granted to Megatron by a dark counterpart to the Matrix bestowed upon him by a group of [[Quintesson]]s.

===''Transformers'' references===
* The concept of the Matrix containing the spirits of past Autobot leaders (or Primes, in this case) was first introduced in "[[Five Faces of Darkness]]", the five-part opening arc of the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Sunbow cartoon]]'s third season. Notably, Optimus' remark about not being able to commune with the Primes' contained spirits runs in direct contrast with the cartoon, where that ''was'' possible, indicating that the Matrix isn't as well-understood as Optimus thinks it is...
* Silverbolt's fear of flying is a trait that goes back to his original [[Bob Budiansky]]-penned tech specs.
* Just as in the [[Marvel Comics continuity]], the Aerialbots were built as a direct counter to the Decepticons' air superiority.

===''G.I. Joe'' references===
* This issue introduces G.I. Joe medic [[Doc (G.I. Joe)|Carl “Doc” Greer]] to the Energon Universe. In addition to being a medical doctor, Doc's original filecard listed his secondary military specialty as "chaplain's assistant." Here, however, the private refers to him as "chaplain" (see "Errors" below).

===Real life references===
* Beachcomber quotes [[Maverick (Collaborative)|Pete "Maverick" Mitchell]]'s iconic line from ''{{w|Top Gun}}''. This is not the first time that line has [[Perspective|appeared in ''Transformers'' fiction]].

===Errors===
* While it is not uncommon for chaplains to also have some medical training, chaplains are specifically noncombatants, which clashes with Doc having been described as seeing action recently.
*Ultra Magnus's antenna are once again colored Blue, instead of white.

===Other trivia===
* The panel of Optimus comforting Spike is visually similar to Starscream and Thundercracker attacking [[Davey]] and the ''Harrison'' captain in [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|issue 1]] and issue 8, respectively.
* Strangely, Starscream's new legs are blue.
* Daniel Warren Johnson and editor Ben Abernathy again take to the letters pages to tease what's to come and answer some pressing questions:
**Both hint at the appearence of [[Motormaster (G1)|Motormaster]] in future issues.
** When asked if Optimus' visions and violent outbursts are related to Megatron's [[fusion cannon]] arm and the mind-dominating ability of his pistol mode, Johnson responds with a smiling emoji. When that same reader asks if Shredhead will either stick around with Elita's team, form their own Autobot crew, or go it solo, Johnson responds with ''three''.
** One reader goes ''really'' deep and asks if [[Fusion (Marvel)|Fusion]], an incredibly obscure Autobot from the [[Transformers Annual 1985]] story "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]", might appear in the comic. Johnson, likely not knowledgeable about the U.K. comic, remarks that the reader's probably farther ahead in the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel run]] than he is, since he only made to ''roughly'' [[Pretender to the Throne!|issue #40]]. This marker gives us a rough, but still helpful idea of how far Johnson's knowledge of classic Generation 1 lore extends, or that he potentially misinterpreted "back in 85" as meaning issue #85, rather than the year 1985.
** Another reader brings up a salient point: if Megatron had the power to repair [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] in issue #18, why didn't he just use that power to fix himself? Johnson states that Megatron, in addition to being the cold-and-calculating type, has a very particular code he abides by, one that puts the well-being of his troops over his own... to an ''extent'', anyway.
** When one reader finds it odd that [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] was able to talk in issue #17, despite Ravage and Laserbeak seemingly being unable to, Johnson responds, "who said Laserbeak and Ravage can't talk? ;)"

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Megatron looms over Starscream, by Daniel Warren Johnson and [[Mike Spicer]].
* '''Cover B:''' The Aerialbots, by [[Jorge Corona]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover by [[David Nakayama]].
* '''Cover D:''' Megatron fights Astrotrain, by [[Howard Porter]] and [[Romulo Fajardo Jr.]].
* '''Cover E:''' Jazz, by [[Simon Parr]].
* '''The 616 Comics Cover A:''' Connecting cover by [[Tiago da Silva]].
* '''The 616 Comics Cover B:''' The other half of Tiago da Silva's connecting cover.
* '''Big Time Collectibles Cover:''' Chibi-fied versions of various Autobots and Decepticons pose in front of a silhouetted Cybertron, by [[Freely Abrigo]].
* '''Clayton Crain Cover:''' The Autobots vs the Decepticons, by [[Clayton Crain]].
* '''East Side Comics Cover:''' Optimus Prime, by [[Raymund Bermudez]].
<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 20 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 20 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 20 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 20 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 20 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 20 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 20 The 616 Comics Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 20 Big Time Collectibles Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 20 Clayton Crain Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 20 East Side Comics Cover.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Energon Universe hardcovers (release dates on all three are a month early)
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 7|#7]], ''Void Rivals'' [[Void Rivals issue 19|#19]], and ''Transformers'' #21.
* Meet Your New Favorite Decepticon in ''[[Transformers: Worst Bot Ever]]''
* ''Ghost Pepper''

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' ([[November 25]], [[2025]]) ISBN 1534332588 / ISBN 978-1534332584 
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #19–24 and the [[Transformers Energon Universe 2025 Special story|''Transformers'' story]] from ''[[Energon Universe 2025 Special]]''.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V4.jpg|'''''Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 19

2025-04-15T14:38:27Z

Diesel Prime: /* Other trivia */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #19
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 18
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 20
|image=Transformers 2023 19 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[April 9]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=April 2025
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Ludo Lullabi]]
|colors by=[[Adriano Lucas]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''A glimpse into the past shows how Megatron became the great conqueror that bent Cybertron to his will.'''

==Synopsis==

[[File:TF2023 no. 19 - MegatronVsSharkticons.jpg|thumb|200px|left]]
[[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] awakens in a cell on the planet [[Quintessa (planet)|Quintessa]]. Confused, he demands to know where he is, last remembering being on [[Moonbase One|Moonbase 1]] with the rest of his [[clan]]. He is then greeted by the [[Quintesson Prosecutor]] [[Dezimir]], who tells him that he has been brought to undergo a great trial. Megatron tries to defiantly fight back, but Dezimir uses a device to control and subdue him. He is then brought to an arena, where Dezimir unleashes a horde of [[Sharkticon (species)|Sharkticon]]s on the [[Transformer|Cybertronian]]. However, Megatron is unfazed, and quickly tears through the Sharkticons, even firing a stray shot from his [[fusion cannon]] at his captors, only to earn another shock from Dezimir. The [[Quintesson]] then activates the next part of the trial: the floor opens underneath Megatron to reveal an inferno. Unfazed, Megatron transforms into his tank mode and blasts at Dezimir's platform. Dezimir taunts Megatron, telling him that while he is powerful, he could be much more. He then summons the mechanical shell of the mighty [[Mechanokoar]] and crushes Megatron.

Once more, Megatron awakens in the same cell, confused. Dezimir tells him that failure is not an option, proceeding to drag him out of the cell and back to the Sharkticon pit. Megatron demands to be returned home, but Dezimir tells him to continue fighting. Once again, Megatron defeats the Sharkticons, but is destroyed by the Mechanokoar.

On and on the cycle repeats, hundreds and hundreds of times. Eventually, the strain becomes too much for Megatron, and he breaks down, begging for mercy. Dezimir reveals that this is not only a trial, but a lesson: for as mighty a warrior Megatron may be, compared to the vast universe, he is ''small''—insignificant. Nothing. Just as he is about to finish Megatron with the Mechanokoar once more, a voice from above orders him to stop; his master has declared the trial over. Dezimir reveals that what allowed them to control Megatron was the dark opposite of the [[Matrix of Leadership]], the legendary artifact wielded by the [[Prime (rank)|Prime]]. Through it, Dezimir and his master plan to make Megatron such an opposing force to the Prime. Energy from this dark Matrix surrounds Megatron, granting him a third mode that will allow him to channel its energy to assert his control over others: a gun. The master then orders Dezimir to pick up Megatron, much to the Quintesson's horror. Megatron revels in the power he now has over his captor, forcing him to aim his gun form at the Mechanokoar and destroy the beast.

In the future, Megatron has returned to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] and uses his new power to lead the [[Decepticon]]s.

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c2=
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (1)
* [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] (6)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (7)
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (8)

||h3=[[Quintesson]]|c3=
* [[Dezimir]] (2)
* [[Quintesson Bailiff]]s (3)
* [[Sharkticon (species)|Sharkticon]]s (4)
* [[Mechanokoar]] (5)
}}

==Quotes==
"Do not look to the past, THE FUTURE IS WHAT MATTERS NOW!"
:—'''Dezmir'''

"If you won't come down to me-- I shall force you down to my level!"
:—'''Megatron''' to Dezimir

"This is not only a trial. It is a lesson. My master has asked me to show you how small you truly are." 
"'''''I AM NOT SMALL!!!!'''''"
:—'''Dezimir''' and '''Megatron'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* This issue flashes back to give us our earliest look at Megatron's history in the Energon Universe, while also serving to expand on ideas and plot points that have been drip-fed to readers over the course of the series.
** For the majority of this issue, Megatron is seen without the Decepticon insignia on his chest, indicating this is set before the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]] broke out.
** This issue reveals the origin of Megatron's gun form and his ability to seemingly overpower the will of those who wield it, an ability first seen in flashbacks to Starscream's origin in [[Transformers (2023) issue 14|issue #14]].
* While the Quintessons have been a recurring presence in ''[[Void Rivals]]'', this issue marks their first appearance in the ''Transformers'' series. ''Void Rivals'' revealed that the Quintessons used to control Cybertron during the [[Age of Wrath]] until they were overthrown by the resistance led by [[Alpha Trion (G1)|Alpha]] and [[Beta (G1)|Zerta Trion]]. However, what connection (if any) Dezimir and his mysterious master have to the rest of the Quints and their plans with [[Goliant]] and Zerta remains to be seen.
* The Matrix of Leadership was first glimpsed in [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|the very first issue of the series]], and became a major plot point towards the end of the first arc.
* At the end of the issue, when Megatron is seemingly returned to moonbase 1, Shockwave and Soundwave are seen sporting their purple Decepticon insignias, yet Megatron is not.

===''Transformers'' references===
*Megatron mentions he was previously on [[Moonbase One]], a Cybertronian moon outpost first introduced in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.
* Megatron's enslavement by the Quintessons echoes [[Megatron (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|other]] [[Megatron (WFC)|versions]] [[Megatron (One)|of Megatron]] who were similarly enslaved and forced to fight for a living.
* The idea of the Matrix of Leadership having a darker counterpart has recurred throughout ''Transformers'' media, including the [[Matrix of Conquest]], the [[Dark Matrix of Leadership]], and most notably the fictitious [[Decepticon Matrix]], the idea of which the Quintessons used to manipulate [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] in the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode “[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4]]”. It seems that in the Energon Universe, such a Matrix might exist after all.
* In another one of the ''deepest'' cuts in this series, the [[Mechanokoar]] Megatron faces during the trial has a design reminiscent of the "[[Dragon Beast|Mechano-Beast]]", which was the combined form of the [[Anibot]]s, a cut [[combiner]] team from the [[The Transformers: The Movie (second draft)|second draft]] of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''. The creature takes design cues from [[Floro Dery]]'s original concept art, even supporting a similar name as well.

===Other trivia===
*Daniel Warren Johnson provides some more insight on what's to come on the letters page:
:*He and editor Ben Abernathy confirm that [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] has not been forgotten following his crash into the Pacific Ocean back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 9|issue 9]].
:*[[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] will not be included in his run.
:*Though he says he plans to stick to G1 during his run, Johnson states that Skybound plans to do ''Transformers'' for "a VERY long time", leaving plenty of room for future writers to branch out to explore ideas from other eras.
* This issue continues the trend of having stories that focus on past events or flashbacks be drawn in a different art style than the rest of the series. Such as Issues 13 and 14 which tell of Starscream's past and turn to the darkside, the 2024 Energon Universe Special Transformers story which tells what happened before issue 1, and now this issue, which tells a story from Megatron's past.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Megatron tears a Sharkticon in half, by Daniel Warren Johnson and [[Mike Spicer]].
* '''Cover B:''' Megatron overwhelmed by Sharkticons, by [[Jorge Corona]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover by [[David Nakayama]].
* '''Cover D:''' Megatron walks through a scorched land, by [[Steve Beach]].
* '''Cover E:''' Megatron stands over the bodies of his victims, by [[Frédéric Pham Chuong]].
* '''Cover F:''' Megatron grimaces, by Ludo Lullabi.
* '''Cover G:''' Blank sketch cover.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover F.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover G.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Energon Universe hardcovers
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 6|#6]], ''Void Rivals'' [[Void Rivals issue 18|#18]], and ''Transformers'' #20.
* ''[[G.I. Joe (comic)|G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero]] - Silent Missions''
* ''Blood & Thunder''

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' ([[November 25]], [[2025]]) ISBN 1534332588 / ISBN 978-1534332584 
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #19–24 and the [[Transformers Energon Universe Special story (2025)|''Transformers'' story]] from ''[[Energon Universe 2025 Special]]''.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V4.jpg|'''''Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 19

2025-04-15T14:35:13Z

Diesel Prime: /* Other trivia */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #19
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 18
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 20
|image=Transformers 2023 19 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[April 9]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=April 2025
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Ludo Lullabi]]
|colors by=[[Adriano Lucas]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''A glimpse into the past shows how Megatron became the great conqueror that bent Cybertron to his will.'''

==Synopsis==

[[File:TF2023 no. 19 - MegatronVsSharkticons.jpg|thumb|200px|left]]
[[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] awakens in a cell on the planet [[Quintessa (planet)|Quintessa]]. Confused, he demands to know where he is, last remembering being on [[Moonbase One|Moonbase 1]] with the rest of his [[clan]]. He is then greeted by the [[Quintesson Prosecutor]] [[Dezimir]], who tells him that he has been brought to undergo a great trial. Megatron tries to defiantly fight back, but Dezimir uses a device to control and subdue him. He is then brought to an arena, where Dezimir unleashes a horde of [[Sharkticon (species)|Sharkticon]]s on the [[Transformer|Cybertronian]]. However, Megatron is unfazed, and quickly tears through the Sharkticons, even firing a stray shot from his [[fusion cannon]] at his captors, only to earn another shock from Dezimir. The [[Quintesson]] then activates the next part of the trial: the floor opens underneath Megatron to reveal an inferno. Unfazed, Megatron transforms into his tank mode and blasts at Dezimir's platform. Dezimir taunts Megatron, telling him that while he is powerful, he could be much more. He then summons the mechanical shell of the mighty [[Mechanokoar]] and crushes Megatron.

Once more, Megatron awakens in the same cell, confused. Dezimir tells him that failure is not an option, proceeding to drag him out of the cell and back to the Sharkticon pit. Megatron demands to be returned home, but Dezimir tells him to continue fighting. Once again, Megatron defeats the Sharkticons, but is destroyed by the Mechanokoar.

On and on the cycle repeats, hundreds and hundreds of times. Eventually, the strain becomes too much for Megatron, and he breaks down, begging for mercy. Dezimir reveals that this is not only a trial, but a lesson: for as mighty a warrior Megatron may be, compared to the vast universe, he is ''small''—insignificant. Nothing. Just as he is about to finish Megatron with the Mechanokoar once more, a voice from above orders him to stop; his master has declared the trial over. Dezimir reveals that what allowed them to control Megatron was the dark opposite of the [[Matrix of Leadership]], the legendary artifact wielded by the [[Prime (rank)|Prime]]. Through it, Dezimir and his master plan to make Megatron such an opposing force to the Prime. Energy from this dark Matrix surrounds Megatron, granting him a third mode that will allow him to channel its energy to assert his control over others: a gun. The master then orders Dezimir to pick up Megatron, much to the Quintesson's horror. Megatron revels in the power he now has over his captor, forcing him to aim his gun form at the Mechanokoar and destroy the beast.

In the future, Megatron has returned to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] and uses his new power to lead the [[Decepticon]]s.

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c2=
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (1)
* [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] (6)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (7)
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (8)

||h3=[[Quintesson]]|c3=
* [[Dezimir]] (2)
* [[Quintesson Bailiff]]s (3)
* [[Sharkticon (species)|Sharkticon]]s (4)
* [[Mechanokoar]] (5)
}}

==Quotes==
"Do not look to the past, THE FUTURE IS WHAT MATTERS NOW!"
:—'''Dezmir'''

"If you won't come down to me-- I shall force you down to my level!"
:—'''Megatron''' to Dezimir

"This is not only a trial. It is a lesson. My master has asked me to show you how small you truly are." 
"'''''I AM NOT SMALL!!!!'''''"
:—'''Dezimir''' and '''Megatron'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* This issue flashes back to give us our earliest look at Megatron's history in the Energon Universe, while also serving to expand on ideas and plot points that have been drip-fed to readers over the course of the series.
** For the majority of this issue, Megatron is seen without the Decepticon insignia on his chest, indicating this is set before the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]] broke out.
** This issue reveals the origin of Megatron's gun form and his ability to seemingly overpower the will of those who wield it, an ability first seen in flashbacks to Starscream's origin in [[Transformers (2023) issue 14|issue #14]].
* While the Quintessons have been a recurring presence in ''[[Void Rivals]]'', this issue marks their first appearance in the ''Transformers'' series. ''Void Rivals'' revealed that the Quintessons used to control Cybertron during the [[Age of Wrath]] until they were overthrown by the resistance led by [[Alpha Trion (G1)|Alpha]] and [[Beta (G1)|Zerta Trion]]. However, what connection (if any) Dezimir and his mysterious master have to the rest of the Quints and their plans with [[Goliant]] and Zerta remains to be seen.
* The Matrix of Leadership was first glimpsed in [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|the very first issue of the series]], and became a major plot point towards the end of the first arc.
* At the end of the issue, when Megatron is seemingly returned to moonbase 1, Shockwave and Soundwave are seen sporting their purple Decepticon insignias, yet Megatron is not.

===''Transformers'' references===
*Megatron mentions he was previously on [[Moonbase One]], a Cybertronian moon outpost first introduced in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.
* Megatron's enslavement by the Quintessons echoes [[Megatron (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|other]] [[Megatron (WFC)|versions]] [[Megatron (One)|of Megatron]] who were similarly enslaved and forced to fight for a living.
* The idea of the Matrix of Leadership having a darker counterpart has recurred throughout ''Transformers'' media, including the [[Matrix of Conquest]], the [[Dark Matrix of Leadership]], and most notably the fictitious [[Decepticon Matrix]], the idea of which the Quintessons used to manipulate [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] in the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode “[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4]]”. It seems that in the Energon Universe, such a Matrix might exist after all.
* In another one of the ''deepest'' cuts in this series, the [[Mechanokoar]] Megatron faces during the trial has a design reminiscent of the "[[Dragon Beast|Mechano-Beast]]", which was the combined form of the [[Anibot]]s, a cut [[combiner]] team from the [[The Transformers: The Movie (second draft)|second draft]] of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''. The creature takes design cues from [[Floro Dery]]'s original concept art, even supporting a similar name as well.

===Other trivia===
*Daniel Warren Johnson provides some more insight on what's to come on the letters page:
:*He and editor Ben Abernathy confirm that [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] has not been forgotten following his crash into the Pacific Ocean back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 9|issue 9]].
:*[[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] will not be included in his run.
:*Though he says he plans to stick to G1 during his run, Johnson states that Skybound plans to do ''Transformers'' for "a VERY long time", leaving plenty of room for future writers to branch out to explore ideas from other eras.
* This issue continues the trend of having stories that focus on past events or flashbacks be drawn in a different art style than the rest of the series. Such as Issues 7 and 8 which tell of Starscream's past and turn to the darkside, the 2024 Energon Universe Special Transformers story which tells what happened before issue 1, and now this issue, which tells a story from Megatron's past.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Megatron tears a Sharkticon in half, by Daniel Warren Johnson and [[Mike Spicer]].
* '''Cover B:''' Megatron overwhelmed by Sharkticons, by [[Jorge Corona]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover by [[David Nakayama]].
* '''Cover D:''' Megatron walks through a scorched land, by [[Steve Beach]].
* '''Cover E:''' Megatron stands over the bodies of his victims, by [[Frédéric Pham Chuong]].
* '''Cover F:''' Megatron grimaces, by Ludo Lullabi.
* '''Cover G:''' Blank sketch cover.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover F.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover G.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Energon Universe hardcovers
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 6|#6]], ''Void Rivals'' [[Void Rivals issue 18|#18]], and ''Transformers'' #20.
* ''[[G.I. Joe (comic)|G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero]] - Silent Missions''
* ''Blood & Thunder''

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' ([[November 25]], [[2025]]) ISBN 1534332588 / ISBN 978-1534332584 
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #19–24 and the [[Transformers Energon Universe Special story (2025)|''Transformers'' story]] from ''[[Energon Universe 2025 Special]]''.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V4.jpg|'''''Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 19

2025-04-15T14:29:41Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #19
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 18
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 20
|image=Transformers 2023 19 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[April 9]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=April 2025
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Ludo Lullabi]]
|colors by=[[Adriano Lucas]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''A glimpse into the past shows how Megatron became the great conqueror that bent Cybertron to his will.'''

==Synopsis==

[[File:TF2023 no. 19 - MegatronVsSharkticons.jpg|thumb|200px|left]]
[[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] awakens in a cell on the planet [[Quintessa (planet)|Quintessa]]. Confused, he demands to know where he is, last remembering being on [[Moonbase One|Moonbase 1]] with the rest of his [[clan]]. He is then greeted by the [[Quintesson Prosecutor]] [[Dezimir]], who tells him that he has been brought to undergo a great trial. Megatron tries to defiantly fight back, but Dezimir uses a device to control and subdue him. He is then brought to an arena, where Dezimir unleashes a horde of [[Sharkticon (species)|Sharkticon]]s on the [[Transformer|Cybertronian]]. However, Megatron is unfazed, and quickly tears through the Sharkticons, even firing a stray shot from his [[fusion cannon]] at his captors, only to earn another shock from Dezimir. The [[Quintesson]] then activates the next part of the trial: the floor opens underneath Megatron to reveal an inferno. Unfazed, Megatron transforms into his tank mode and blasts at Dezimir's platform. Dezimir taunts Megatron, telling him that while he is powerful, he could be much more. He then summons the mechanical shell of the mighty [[Mechanokoar]] and crushes Megatron.

Once more, Megatron awakens in the same cell, confused. Dezimir tells him that failure is not an option, proceeding to drag him out of the cell and back to the Sharkticon pit. Megatron demands to be returned home, but Dezimir tells him to continue fighting. Once again, Megatron defeats the Sharkticons, but is destroyed by the Mechanokoar.

On and on the cycle repeats, hundreds and hundreds of times. Eventually, the strain becomes too much for Megatron, and he breaks down, begging for mercy. Dezimir reveals that this is not only a trial, but a lesson: for as mighty a warrior Megatron may be, compared to the vast universe, he is ''small''—insignificant. Nothing. Just as he is about to finish Megatron with the Mechanokoar once more, a voice from above orders him to stop; his master has declared the trial over. Dezimir reveals that what allowed them to control Megatron was the dark opposite of the [[Matrix of Leadership]], the legendary artifact wielded by the [[Prime (rank)|Prime]]. Through it, Dezimir and his master plan to make Megatron such an opposing force to the Prime. Energy from this dark Matrix surrounds Megatron, granting him a third mode that will allow him to channel its energy to assert his control over others: a gun. The master then orders Dezimir to pick up Megatron, much to the Quintesson's horror. Megatron revels in the power he now has over his captor, forcing him to aim his gun form at the Mechanokoar and destroy the beast.

In the future, Megatron has returned to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] and uses his new power to lead the [[Decepticon]]s.

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c2=
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (1)
* [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] (6)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (7)
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (8)

||h3=[[Quintesson]]|c3=
* [[Dezimir]] (2)
* [[Quintesson Bailiff]]s (3)
* [[Sharkticon (species)|Sharkticon]]s (4)
* [[Mechanokoar]] (5)
}}

==Quotes==
"Do not look to the past, THE FUTURE IS WHAT MATTERS NOW!"
:—'''Dezmir'''

"If you won't come down to me-- I shall force you down to my level!"
:—'''Megatron''' to Dezimir

"This is not only a trial. It is a lesson. My master has asked me to show you how small you truly are." 
"'''''I AM NOT SMALL!!!!'''''"
:—'''Dezimir''' and '''Megatron'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* This issue flashes back to give us our earliest look at Megatron's history in the Energon Universe, while also serving to expand on ideas and plot points that have been drip-fed to readers over the course of the series.
** For the majority of this issue, Megatron is seen without the Decepticon insignia on his chest, indicating this is set before the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]] broke out.
** This issue reveals the origin of Megatron's gun form and his ability to seemingly overpower the will of those who wield it, an ability first seen in flashbacks to Starscream's origin in [[Transformers (2023) issue 14|issue #14]].
* While the Quintessons have been a recurring presence in ''[[Void Rivals]]'', this issue marks their first appearance in the ''Transformers'' series. ''Void Rivals'' revealed that the Quintessons used to control Cybertron during the [[Age of Wrath]] until they were overthrown by the resistance led by [[Alpha Trion (G1)|Alpha]] and [[Beta (G1)|Zerta Trion]]. However, what connection (if any) Dezimir and his mysterious master have to the rest of the Quints and their plans with [[Goliant]] and Zerta remains to be seen.
* The Matrix of Leadership was first glimpsed in [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|the very first issue of the series]], and became a major plot point towards the end of the first arc.
* At the end of the issue, when Megatron is seemingly returned to moonbase 1, Shockwave and Soundwave are seen sporting their purple Decepticon insignias, yet Megatron is not.

===''Transformers'' references===
*Megatron mentions he was previously on [[Moonbase One]], a Cybertronian moon outpost first introduced in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.
* Megatron's enslavement by the Quintessons echoes [[Megatron (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|other]] [[Megatron (WFC)|versions]] [[Megatron (One)|of Megatron]] who were similarly enslaved and forced to fight for a living.
* The idea of the Matrix of Leadership having a darker counterpart has recurred throughout ''Transformers'' media, including the [[Matrix of Conquest]], the [[Dark Matrix of Leadership]], and most notably the fictitious [[Decepticon Matrix]], the idea of which the Quintessons used to manipulate [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] in the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode “[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4]]”. It seems that in the Energon Universe, such a Matrix might exist after all.
* In another one of the ''deepest'' cuts in this series, the [[Mechanokoar]] Megatron faces during the trial has a design reminiscent of the "[[Dragon Beast|Mechano-Beast]]", which was the combined form of the [[Anibot]]s, a cut [[combiner]] team from the [[The Transformers: The Movie (second draft)|second draft]] of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''. The creature takes design cues from [[Floro Dery]]'s original concept art, even supporting a similar name as well.

===Other trivia===
*Daniel Warren Johnson provides some more insight on what's to come on the letters page:
:*He and editor Ben Abernathy confirm that [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] has not been forgotten following his crash into the Pacific Ocean back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 9|issue 9]].
:*[[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] will not be included in his run.
:*Though he says he plans to stick to G1 during his run, Johnson states that Skybound plans to do ''Transformers'' for "a VERY long time", leaving plenty of room for future writers to branch out to explore ideas from other eras.

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Megatron tears a Sharkticon in half, by Daniel Warren Johnson and [[Mike Spicer]].
* '''Cover B:''' Megatron overwhelmed by Sharkticons, by [[Jorge Corona]] and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover by [[David Nakayama]].
* '''Cover D:''' Megatron walks through a scorched land, by [[Steve Beach]].
* '''Cover E:''' Megatron stands over the bodies of his victims, by [[Frédéric Pham Chuong]].
* '''Cover F:''' Megatron grimaces, by Ludo Lullabi.
* '''Cover G:''' Blank sketch cover.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover F.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 19 Cover G.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Energon Universe hardcovers
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 6|#6]], ''Void Rivals'' [[Void Rivals issue 18|#18]], and ''Transformers'' #20.
* ''[[G.I. Joe (comic)|G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero]] - Silent Missions''
* ''Blood & Thunder''

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' ([[November 25]], [[2025]]) ISBN 1534332588 / ISBN 978-1534332584 
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #19–24 and the [[Transformers Energon Universe Special story (2025)|''Transformers'' story]] from ''[[Energon Universe 2025 Special]]''.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V4.jpg|'''''Volume 4: Conquer and Control''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Talk:Transformers (2023) issue 19

2025-04-14T18:41:06Z

Diesel Prime: Created page with "Do we think this "Matrix of Control" is what Megatron used to fix Ravage in issue 18? The Pink energy seems to match."

Do we think this "Matrix of Control" is what Megatron used to fix Ravage in issue 18? The Pink energy seems to match.

Transformers: Deviations

2025-04-01T20:52:21Z

Diesel Prime: /* Errors */

{{comicstory
|seriesissue=''Transformers: Deviations''
|prev=
|next=
|image=TFDev_subcvr.jpg
|caption=Did you want to read an embarrassing 1994-era [[alt.toys.transformers]] fanfic in official comic form? Good news!
|title=
|publisher=[[IDW Publishing]]
|date=[[March 16]], 2016
|coverdate=March, 2016
|written by=[[Brandon M. Easton]]
|art by=[[Priscilla Tramontano]]
|colors by=Priscilla Tramontano and [[John-Paul Bove]]
|letters by=[[Tom B. Long]]
|editor=[[John Barber]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]] (alternate)
}}

'''What if... Optimus Prime did not die?'''

==Synopsis==
In [[The Transformers: The Movie|the world we know]], the [[Decepticon]]s launched a devastating attack on [[Autobot City (G1)|Autobot City]] in the year [[2005]], during which the young [[Autobot]] [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]], against the advice of [[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]], interfered in a battle between [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] and [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] when he spotted the Decepticon leader reaching for a fallen weapon. Megatron seized the young Autobot and used him as a shield to prevent Prime from firing, then blasted Prime, inflicting injuries that claimed his life soon after. But in this world, things take a different turn...

Rather than just call after Hot Rod, Kup actually tackles the young 'bot to the ground, preventing him from becoming involved in Prime and Megatron's fight. Megatron grabs the gun, but Optimus is able to react, dodging the blast, and—with no options remaining—regretfully pulls the trigger on his own weapon, slaying Megatron. With the loss of their leader, the Decepticons fall into disarray and flee aboard [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]]; [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] recovers Megatron's [[fusion cannon]] as proof of his death, and nominates himself as the new leader. Soon after, partway into their journey back to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], the wounded Decepticons are tossed into the void of space, where they are found by [[Unicron]]—but as Megatron is not among them in this universe, the planet-eater simply consumes them. Unicron then continues on his way to Cybertron, arriving in the middle of Starscream's coronation ceremony. At [[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]]'s urging, Starscream flies out to make first contact with the living planet, and, ever the self-preservationist, is quick to accept when Unicron demands that he serve him. In return for destroying the [[Matrix of Leadership]], Starscream requests upgrades to himself and his inner circle, and Unicron agrees.

On [[Earth]], Optimus Prime decides to press the Autobots' current advantage, pursuing the Decepticons back to Cybertron and defeating them once and for all. Hot Rod is unsure, believing that they do not have to rush as the Decepticons will be demoralized and disorganized, but [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ultra Magnus]] silences him, sure that the villains will have reorganized under a new leader before long. Prime steps in before Magnus and Hot Rod's argument can escalate and gets things moving forward: he will lead a group on one shuttle to [[Moonbase One]], while Magnus will take a second group to [[Moonbase Two]]. Hot Rod is not happy about being assigned to Magnus's crew; Optimus charges him with looking after [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]] until they can reunite him with [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|his father]]. The shuttles soon depart Earth, and Hot Rod spends the journey telling Daniel that he has begun to see images in his mind of Optimus dying, like a human "dream." He believes they are the work of the Matrix, but when Ultra Magnus overhears, he is ready to accuse Hot Rod of plotting treachery! Just then, the shuttles suddenly come under attack from the Decepticons, led by the upgraded Starscream, now calling himself "Megascream"! Hot Rod proposes that they buy themselves some time by throwing their engines into a hard reverse, causing the Decepticons to overshoot them, but Magnus and [[Perceptor (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Perceptor]] refuse, believing such a tactic will burn the engines out. However, when a blast hits the ship and injures Magnus, Hot Rod seizes his chances and does it anyway... and the engines do indeed burn out. Fortunately, just then, Megascream receives a transmission from Soundwave on Cybertron, alerting him to the fact that Unicron is consuming Moonbase One. Outraged, Megascream calls off the attack and has the Decepticons return to their homeworld.

While Magnus's crippled shuttle drifts off in the direction of the [[Junkion (planet)|Planet of Junk]], Optimus's crew set down on the planet [[Quintessa (planet)|Quintessa]] to repair their own ship's damage before collecting their stranded teammates. No sooner have they landed than they are approached by a shoal of [[Sharkticon (species)|Sharkticons]]; Kup tries the [[universal greeting]], but the creatures do not take kindly to it and a battle breaks out. The [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]] soon overpower the Sharkticons, and the Autobots trace them back to their point of origin, the [[Quintesson]]s' citadel. The resident five-faced aliens promptly flee, and the Autobots liberate their prisoners, including [[Kranix (G1)|Kranix]], last survivor of the planet [[Lithone (planet)|Lithone]], who tells them of Unicron.

Meanwhile, as Ultra Magnus's shuttle hurtles toward Junkion, the wounded Magnus urges Hot Rod to get Daniel into the only escape pod that remains functional. The young 'bot complies, and he and Daniel escape down to the planet's surface but must watch as all their friends perish when the shuttle crashes and explodes. Hot Rod apologizes for everything, but Daniel tells him that it must all be part of the Matrix's plan, and that the other Autobots' sacrifice must mean something. Presently, Optimus's group arrives to rescue them, and they all head for Cybertron together.

Concurrently, Megascream confronts Unicron over his consumption of the Moonbase, but Unicron tires of his pawn's whining and transforms to robot mode to begin attacking Cybertron itself. As his assault begins, the Autobots gather on [[Moonbase Two]], where Optimus Prime announces his intent to take a small ship on a solo mission to Unicron's surface, believing that the Matrix has the power to destroy the monster planet. When he arrives, he is met by Megascream, who demands the Autobot hand over the Matrix so he can use it to destroy Unicron himself. Megascream unveils the "enhancements" he had Unicron make to his warriors, merging with Soundwave, Astrotrain, [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]], and [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] to form a giant [[combiner]], and promptly crushes Prime beneath his colossal fist. He picks up the shattered Autobot, but Hot Rod—who stowed away on Prime's ship—appears to wrest his leader free. Following the call of the Matrix, Hot Rod removes the talisman from Optimus's chest, then slips a teleport disc from [[Wheeljack (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Wheeljack]]'s lab onto the injured Autobot leader, sending him back to Moonbase Two. Megascream blasts Hot Rod, but even damaged, he crawls to the Matrix and manages to pull it open. The resulting burst of brilliant blue energy can be seen from space, causing an explosion that destroys Unicron... but both Megascream and Hot Rod are also lost in the blast.

In the aftermath, Optimus Prime declares the Cybertronian Wars at an end, and speaks of a future of peace and prosperity. In the skies above, he sees the image of his mentor, [[Alpha Trion (G1)|Alpha Trion]], and that of the newest shining light to join the ranks of great Autobots within the Matrix: Rodimus Prime.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] (5)
*[[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]] (7)
*[[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod/Rodimus Prime]] (9)
*[[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]] (10)
*[[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]] (23)
*[[Perceptor (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Perceptor]] (24)
*[[Grimlock (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Grimlock]] (25)
*[[Ultra Magnus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ultra Magnus]] (26)
*[[Slag (G1)|Slag]] (27)
*[[Ironhide (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ironhide]]'s body (28)
*[[Prowl (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Prowl]]'s body (29)
*[[Wheeljack (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Wheeljack]]'s body (30)
*[[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]]'s body (31)
*[[Blurr (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blurr]] (32)
*[[Arcee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Arcee]] (33)
*[[Springer (G1)|Springer]] (36)
*[[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]] (43)
*[[Dagbase]] (44)
*[[Blaster (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blaster]] (45)
*[[Alpha Trion (G1)|Alpha Trion]] (vision, 46)

|c2=
*[[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]] (1)
*[[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] (2)
*[[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] (3)
*[[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]] (4)
*[[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] (6, see [[#Errors|Errors]])
*[[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (8)
*[[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream/Megascream]] (11)
*[[Kickback (G1)|Kickback]] (12)
*[[Laserbeak (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Laserbeak]] (13)
*[[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (14)
*[[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (15)
*[[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (16)
*[[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (17)
*[[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (18)
*[[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]] (19)
*[[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]] (20)
*[[Skywarp (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Skywarp]] (21)
*[[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] (35)
*[[Thundercracker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Thundercracker]] (37)
*[[Sunstorm (G1)|Sunstorm]] (38)
*[[Acid Storm (G1)|Acid Storm]] (39)

|c3=
*[[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]] (34)
*[[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike Witwicky]] (39)

|c4=
*[[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]] (22)
*[[Sharkticon (species)|Sharkticons]] (40)
*[[Quintesson]]s (41)
*[[Kranix (G1)|Kranix]] (42)
}}

==Quotes==
"Yield, Megatron, '''''now!''''' Don't make me destroy you." 
''Megatron shoots at him'' 
"Forgive me..."
:—'''Optimus Prime''' kills his old foe after attempts to talk him down fail.

"I was trying to help Optimus win this war. Where were you during the heat of battle? I didn't see you anywhere close to the frontline." 
"'''''Back down''''', soldier, or you'll be picking my knuckle shards out of your grill shaft."
:—'''Hot Rod''' and an uncharacteristically dickish '''Ultra Magnus'''

"Take a good look at your fallen brothers. They made the ultimate sacrifice so that we could one day reclaim Cybertron. Chirping at each other like malfunctioning scrap droids is no way to honor their memory. You're Autobot warriors...or have you forgotten?" 
"They've found an eternal resting place within the Matrix of Leadership. Their heroism will echo through space and time...[['til all are one]]."
:—'''Optimus Prime''' and '''Hot Rod''' right before Kup smacks the latter in the head for speaking. No, seriously.

"Uncharismatic bore...transforms into a cassette player. What's his value anyway?"
:—'''Starscream''' after Soundwave reminds him that being leader comes with responsibilities.

"You worried about your dad?" 
"He's everything to me. I don't know what I'd do without him." 
"I think I understand. I wanted to protect Optimus Prime but it feels like every decision I make is the wrong one."
:—'''Hot Rod''' and '''Daniel'''

"I guess things got lost in translation!"
:—'''Kup''''s universal greeting fails to pacify the Sharkticons.

"I have grown tired of your whining. For a time I considered sparing your wretched little planet of Cybertron. But now...you shall witness its dismemberment!" 
"'''''NOOOOOOOO!!!'''''"
:—'''Unicron''' and '''Megascream'''

"I'll do what Megatron was never capable of doing...ending the life of the great Optimus Prime." 
"You're '''''worse''''' than Megatron! At least '''''he''''' had style. You're just a pompous jerk with '''''delusions''''' of '''''adequacy!'''''"
:—'''Megascream''' gets a sick burn from '''Hot Rod'''

"Alpha Trion...and Rodimus Prime. I will never again question the ways of the Matrix. 'Til all are one."
:—'''Optimus Prime''' plays us out.

==Notes==
''Deviations'' was IDW's multi-franchise crossover event for 2016, following in the footsteps of the ''[[The X-Files: Conspiracy: The Transformers|The X-Files: Conspiracy]]'', ''[[Mars Attacks: The Transformers|Mars Attacks]]'', and ''[[Infestation (IDW)|Infestation]]'' [[Infestation 2|events]] of previous years. The concept is a take on [[Marvel Comics|Marvel]]'s "What If?" comic book, with each comic telling a story about a world in which a key event in the franchise's history happened differently; in this issue's case, it asks what would have happened if [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] had not interfered with Optimus Prime's battle against Megatron, and thereby been the indirect cause of his death, in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.

Other franchises involved in the ''Deviations'' event include ''[[Ghostbusters]]'' ("What if the Ghostbusters never crossed the streams?"), ''[[G.I. Joe (franchise)|G.I. Joe]]'' ("What if [[Cobra]] took over the world?"), ''Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles'' ("What if the Turtles joined Shredder?"), and ''The X-Files'' ("What if [[Fox Mulder]] was abducted as a child?"). A second ''Deviations'' event followed in 2017, featuring ''[[My Little Pony]]'' ("What if Prince Blueblood was Princess Celestia's pupil?"), ''[[Star Trek]]'' ("What if the Romulans made first contact with Earth?"), ''Judge Dredd'' ("What if Judge Dredd stayed a werewolf?"), and ''The X-Files'' (a continuation of the previous year's story). An entire six-issue ''Deviations'' miniseries for ''Orphan Black'' ("What if Sarah prevented Beth's suicide?") was released the same year.

===Continuity notes===
*The "What Really Happened" introductory page uses artwork from IDW's ''[[Transformers: The Animated Movie]]'' adaptation. Remember that?
*True to form, there's no sign of [[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]] anywhere in the issue, reflecting his mysterious absence from [[:File:G1TFTM_Snarl_cameo.JPG|most of]] the film.
*Hot Rod remarks that Ultra Magnus was nowhere to be seen during the battle of Autobot City, which is an accurate summary of his role in that part of the film. He was supposed to battle [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] alongside a team of Autobots, but the scene got deleted from the movie.
*So, uh, Ultra Magnus is kind of a massive asshole to Hot Rod in this, isn't he? They didn't have this kind of relationship in the film, though the original ''script'' for the movie did show Magnus butting heads with the young 'bot as he took him to task for breaking Kup's security cordon.
*In a cute touch, Shrapnel and Kickback can still be seen at Starscream's coronation despite being thrown out of Astrotrain, in a faithful replication of one of the movie's more famous animation/continuity errors. Continuing this theme in a new direction, Thundercracker appears among Megascream's troops (though it's worth mentioning that the comic ''doesn't'' show him being tossed into space in the earlier scene).
*The statues in the Decepticon [[Hall of Heroes]] are faithfully represented here, meaning we get a look at the figures of [[Gladiaron]], [[Floron]], [[Dery]], and [[Ghoulon]]. Gladiaron's missing his mohawk-crest, though.
*Hot Rod's tactic of reversing the engines comes from the original script to the movie (and the [[Transformers: The Movie (Marvel comic)|Marvel Comics adaptation]] based on it), in which Kup used it to shake off the [[moleculon missile]]s that were pursuing their shuttle. Even in the script, however, the move was described with the sci-fi nonsense phrase "inverting polarities," and for the finished film, it was changed to the shuttle actually blasting the missiles with some kind of scrambler beam that screwed up their trajectories.
*The reference to Ultra Magnus's ship covering "a much larger distance than expected" thanks to "plasma burnout" sounds like a reference to "[[The Rebirth]]," in which an Autobot ship was catapulted across the galaxy when struck by [[plasma energy]].
*Grimlock wants to "bash Decepticons in their turbo chargers," recalling [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]]'s desire to "boot some Decepticon right in his turbo charger" from "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]".
*The Quintessons recognize the Autobots, and Prime deems their planet "familiar," alluding to the aliens' status as the creators of the Transformers, which the main timeline Autobots would not discover until shortly ''after'' the film, in the five-part "[[Five Faces of Darkness]]" mini-series.
*Thanks to Starscream pushing Unicron's patience harder and faster than Galvatron ever did, the planet-eater foregoes noshing on Moonbase Two, and just goes straight for Cybertron, meaning Bumblebee and Spike don't get eaten in this version of events.
*In addition to the above fact, [[Jazz (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Jazz]] and Cliffjumper are still eaten with Moonbase One, and as this timeline has no Autobot group entering Unicron and saving them, they either perished in Unicron's innards or were destroyed when his body exploded.

===Real-world references===
*In the first panel, the narration goes "A simple turn to the left can avert catastrophe while a right turn can trigger an apocalypse". That might be a reference to the ''[[Doctor Who]]'' episode "{{w|Turn Left (Doctor Who)|Turn Left}}", in which both paths of that exact scenario play out.

===Transformers references===
*In the first panel of the story, an [[Autotrooper (Animated)|''Animated'' Autotrooper]] can be seen amongst the wreckage.
*Two "[[Quintesson Executioner|executioner]]" Quintessons are seen fleeing on page 16; one is colored in animation-accurate white-and-green, the other in Marvel comic-accurate purple-and-teal.
*Also on page 16, Marvel character [[Scrounge (G1)|Scrounge]] is among those saved from the Quintessons' cells.
*A [[generic]] on page 20 is colored like [[Brainstorm (G1)|Brainstorm]].
*On page 24, [[Dagbase]] from ''[[Brave (franchise)|Brave]]'' is visible in the crowd; his design is likely based on [[Dug Base|''Animated'' Dug Base]].

===Errors===
*In the first panel, there's an all-grey Seeker with no visible wings. Given the scene from the film this panel represents, and the fact that the other 'Cons being mowed down by Prime in this panel (Blitzwing and Shrapnel) were shown receiving the same treatment in animated form, this was presumably supposed to be [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]], who was prominently clobbered by Prime in the movie scene. Thrust is in the comic either way, showing up in later scenes.
*Also in the first panel, the fallen Swoop's body is colored red instead of blue.
*On page 4, Rumble is colored in Insecticon black-and-purple, rather than his cartoon two-tone purple color scheme.
*In the last panel of page 4, Blitzwing looks pretty off-color, with a greyish helmet and purplish face, but it might just be because he's in the back of the shot, and partially in shadow. It ''does'' kinda make him look like a Constructicon, who he's standing next to.
*On page 5, Ramjet has black forearms—an easy mistake to make, since it's standard protocol for Seekers to have forearms the same color as their fists, but Ramjet's the prominent exception; he has white arms from wrist to shoulder in the animated series.
*Also on page 5, Astrotrain is, um, missing his wing when he takes off. Maybe he's not done transforming?
*On page 7, the deceased Prowl's helmet is white in panel 1, but black in panel 4.
*He's only tiny, but Mixmaster is off-color on page 8, with one black arm and one green, a black headpiece, and a green mixing barrel.
*On page 13, Prime's head in the bottom panel is drawn without the battle damage from his fight with Megatron.
*In the second panel of page 14, Optimus Prime is missing both smokestacks. His right smokestack disappears again on page 16 panel 3, and the first panel of page 22.
*"Lithone" is consistently misspelled "Linthone."
*Optimus's Left Shoulder Autobot symbol constantly disappears and reappears (pages 6, 10, 15, 16, and 22).
*Faction symbols in general seem to disappear.
*Bumblebee's got yellow shoulders instead of black on page 20.
*Why is Blurr on Cybertron? He's not seen getting into either ship, and since the titular "deviation" kicks in before Blurr could have conceivably left Earth, he should still be in Autobot City. Perhaps he's so fast he just ran home.

===Other notes===
*This issue's story is 24 pages in length, as opposed to the current standard of 20. The story is followed by eight pages of back-matter, including a letter from Easton introducing himself to the audience, a "story so far" cross-sell summarizing the current goings-on over in ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|The Transformers]]'' and ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'', and a "process" segment showing how the first page of the comic went from script to finished form. The end result is a book that retails at $4.99, instead of IDW's usual $3.99.
* The speech balloons are done in the same style as those of the Marvel G1 comics.
*As one might glean from the article, the comic takes a rather... ''dismissive'' tone towards the characters introduced in the movie. The Season 3 Autobots are all killed en masse in a shuttle explosion, the 'Cons who would become the Season 3 Decepticons are unceremoniously munched up by Unicron, and [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] and the [[Junkion (species)|Junkion]]s never even ''show up'', since the characters don't stay on-planet long enough to meet them. The only movie characters to actually survive until the climax of the story are Hot Rod, Blurr, and Kup... and then Hot Rod dies at the end. Ho-hum.
*The Autobots really hate Hot Rod for some reason. Ho-hum indeed.
*The planet [[Betamax-Nine]] and warring [[Veechezez]] group are both references to former [[Home video|home video]] formats.

===Covers (2)===
*'''Standard cover:''' Optimus Prime stands over Megatron's fallen body, by [[Marcelo Matere]] and [[John-Paul Bove]]
*'''Subscription cover:''' Hot Rod spots Optimus Prime and Megatron fighting and plans to help, but Kup has other ideas, by [[Casey Coller]] and [[John-Paul Bove]]
<gallery>
File:TFDev_regcvr.jpg|
File:TFDev_subcvr.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
*IDW ''Transformers'' reading guide
*[[The Transformers issue 50|''The Transformers'' #50]] and [[More than Meets the Eye issue 50|''More than Meets the Eye'' #50]]
*''Deviations''

===Collections===
* ''Deviations'' TPB ([[July 13]], [[2016]]) ISBN 1631406752 / ISBN 9781631406751
:*Collects all of the ''Deviations'' specials.
:*No Transformers extras besides cover.

{{DEFAULTSORT:Deviations}}
[[Category:Generation 1 issues]]
[[Category:IDW titles]]

Last Bot Standing issue 1

2025-03-26T04:01:16Z

Diesel Prime: /* Transformers references */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers: Last Bot Standing|Transformers: Last Bot Standing]]'' #1
|prev=
|next=Last Bot Standing issue 2
|caption=“Whatever Fett is paying you, we’ll match. And all you’ve got to do is stay put and let things play out.”
|image=LastBotStanding 1 cvrA.jpg
|title=
|publisher=[[IDW Publishing]]
|date=[[May 11]], 2022
|coverdate=May 2022
|written by=[[Nick Roche]]
|art by=[[E. J. Su]] (pg. 1-22, 24-30) [[Nick Roche]] (pg. 23)
|colors=[[Rebecca Nalty]]
|letters by=[[Johanna Nattalie]]
|editor=[[David Mariotte]] and [[Riley Farmer]]
}}

'''At the end of time, on the edge of space, the last Cybertronian discovers that he is not alone.'''

==Synopsis==
In the far-distant future, long after the end of the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]] between the [[Autobot]]s and [[Decepticon]]s, a small space pod hurtles towards a remote world and makes planetfall in an empty stretch of desert. After a moment, [[Nitro (IDW)|a single]] [[Transformer]] climbs from the vessel and slowly lurches away...

For the humanoids who inhabit the planet [[Donnokt]], it is a time of rapid change as an industrial revolution spreads across the planet: mining consortiums have enriched sleepy towns like [[Fembrance]] and introduced them to an age of steam-powered wonders, including the smoke-belching buggies so beloved by local rich boy [[Stambo Flentz]] and his friend [[Brennet]]. Not ''all'' of the people of Fembrance are so enamored with progress, however: as the pair rip through town, they spray mud over an incoming wagon and catch an earful from its owner [[Shib Wallkis]]. Annoyed that the two brothers have used their new toys to get into the delivery business and undercut her own livelihood, she's found that her longtime customer doctor [[Brel Tonder]] has even hired them while she and her brothers were away on a delivery. When Brel suggests that Shib could modernize, she refuses: her cart's been in the family for generations, and the loss of her parents at a young age means that she's had more than enough change for ''one'' lifetime. After Brel pays them for their delivery, Shib and her brothers trundle home in their wagon, while, elsewhere, the Cybertronian intruder slowly trudges through the barrens.

At home, Shib washes up, puts her brothers to bed, then tends to a small box of family heirlooms that includes photos and a set of necklaces, each one containing a vial filled with [[energon|a strange, blue fluid]]. A sudden knock at the door catches her attention—the sheriff of Fembrance has come calling to ask for her assistance in rescuing a group of wounded miners trapped up in the mountains. Shib grumbles, but ultimately accepts the job, hitches her wagon, and rides off with Brel, even as the lone Cybertronian, leaking [[Biofuel|a strange, green fluid]] as it goes, marches closer and closer to their town. Hours later, Shib returns, bringing with her a complement of injured but still-living miners. Even the loudmouthed Stambo can't help but sheepishly complement her prowess... but any celebrations are cut short when an onlooker shouts in fear and points to the distance, where the Cybertronian has arrived! At first, the arrival merely takes in the sight of this unfamiliar town—until, unexpectedly, Shib's own wagon creaks, shudders, and, as the draft animals bolt, lurches to life all by itself, then sheds its outer tarp to reveal ''another'' Cybertronian, [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus]]! The intruder can't believe he's found ''another'' member of his kind... but Rodimus coldly tells him to die, and promptly pile-drives him into the ground.

Amidst the madness, the townsfolk abruptly round on Shib—did she ''know'' her wagon was "enchanted"? Shib says nothing, but merely watches as the other Transformer desperately pleads with Rodimus to stop, and swears that they are ''brothers''... but when he lands an unexpected hit on his opponent and seemingly takes him out of the fight, the Visitor too momentarily realizes what he's done. As he pleads for his opponent to wake up, he makes the mistake of asking his name; as he does so, Rodimus mumbles his name as he remembers a time ''before'', when, under siege by an enemy flotilla, he deliberately crash-landed his ship and stranded himself on this remote world. As the citizens of Fembrance grab their guns, the visitor sincerely thanks Rodimus for providing "them" with a new home... but Rodimus quickly finds his footing, roars that Donnokt is not theirs, and promptly finishes the fight by ripping the other Transformer's head from his body. As the sheriff orders the town militia to open fire on Rodimus, Shib runs over to the old Autobot; although Rodimus has vague memories of her from his time masquerading as her wagon, he merely warns her and the other citizens of Fembrance not to pick a fight, wraps the remains of the wagon around him to form a makeshift cloak, and warns the people of Fembrance not to follow him as he tosses the severed head of his victim over his shoulder and leaves.

Unbeknownst to Rodimus, however, "they" have already arrived: even now, a second pod crash-lands in the desert, and disgorges [[Moon (BW)|a second Cybertronian invader]]...

==Featured characters==
(Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks.) 
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus]] (5)
* ''[[Gripper (G1)|Gripper]]'' (10)
* ''[[Strongarm (G1)|Strongarm]]'' (11)

|h3=[[Donnokt]]|c3=
* [[Brennet]] (2)
* [[Stambo Flentz]] (3)
* [[Shib Wallkis]] (4)
* [[Travyon Wallkis]] (6)
* [[Beets Wallkis]] (7)
* [[Brel Tonder]] (8)
* [[Errold]] (9)

|c4=
* [[Nitro (IDW)|Nitro]] (1)
* [[Moon (BW)|Moon]] (12)

}}

==Quotes==

"These steamramblers—these... these people thinkin' they can get rich quick from it... don't it feel like '''crazy''' has come to town, doc? An' that, maybe, it mightn't leave?"
:—'''Shib'''

"Don't worry, Stambo. Them guys didn't get blowed up too much. They'll be back to work soon enough to fetch you more bang for your little fun-buggy. And thanks for not stealing more of my '''business''' while I was away." 
"...who says we didn't?"
:—'''Shib''' and '''Stambo'''

"No... this place—'''this place is not for us'''." 
"Hnnn! No, wait—we're the '''same—'''" 
"'''Not. The. Same!''''"
:—'''Rodimus''' versus the '''Visitor'''

"My name is '''Rodimus'''. And I have '''no kin'''."
:—'''Rodimus'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* With [[IDW Publishing]]'s time on the ''Transformers'' brand winding down, ''Last Bot Standing'' commemorates seventeen years of IDW ''Transformers'' comics by presenting a "final" ''Transformers'' story, an imaginary tale in the vein of ''{{w|Old Man Logan}}'' or ''{{w|Superman: Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow?|Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow?}}''. While Nick Roche has stated that the story was not written to fit into any one specific continuity—as the comic features shout-outs to many obscure corners of ''Transformers'' lore it ''can'', with a bit of squinting, conceivably act as a hypothetical "last adventure" for basically any ''Transformers'' universe<ref>{{citesocial|quote=WHICH CONTINUITY. ANSWER NOW. Any... all of 'em... or none. It's so far flung, it could ultimately be utterly speculative. But squint, and it bolts onto YOUR Transformers canon as the (chronological) last adventure.|link=https://twitter.com/NickRoche/status/1521596094609862658|name=Nick Roche|site=Twitter|year=2022|month=05|day=03|(defunct=)}}</ref>—''Last Bot Standing'' draws heavily upon several concepts popularized by [[Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel]] and [[2005 IDW continuity|IDW]]'s most cynical stories: a timeline where the Autobot-Decepticon conflict over resources has degenerated into a pointless stalemate, where the galaxy has come to hate and fear all Cybertronians equally, and the antagonistic Transformer faction perpetually search for new sources of energy to survive. Combined with the G1-inspired robot modes for many of the story's heroes and villains, for our organizational purposes we've taken the liberty of labelling ''Last Bot Standing'' as part of the "[[Generation 1 continuity family|Generation 1]]" [[continuity family]], although it's otherwise unconnected to any past or future stories.

===Transformers references===
* The opening narration notes that "it always starts the same way", alluding to the great tradition of ''Transformers'' stories beginning with the robots falling from space, crashing on [[Earth]]. It might also be a deliberate inversion of [[Simon Furman]]'s old chestnut, "[[Furmanism|it never ends]]".
* As mentioned above, ''Last Bot Standing'' isn't written with the intent of slotting into any one continuity, but we'd be remiss if we didn't point out that our hero apparently just goes by "Rodimus", not "Rodimus ''Prime''", which was a naming quirk the character adopted in [[2005 IDW continuity|IDW's original ''Transformers'' universe]].
*Meanwhile, the basic idea of a future era in which an aged and withered Rodimus has outlived many of his contemporaries is likely inspired by the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] story, "[[Aspects of Evil!]]", especially given Roche's history as a Marvel UK fan and a member of [[Transmasters UK|the famous fan-fiction group]] that continued the series. The idea has been revisited before, in IDW's Marvel sequel series ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]].''
* The two draft animals who pull Shib's "wagon" are named "[[Sparks (IDW)|Sparks]]" and "[[Firebolt (IDW)|Firebolt]]": [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]] was the name of Hot Rod's [[Targetmaster (technology)|Targetmaster]] partner, while "Sparks" was the name Firebolt went by in the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel comic]].
* As she leaves to rescue the miners, Shib announces that it's time to "[[roll out]]".
* During Rodimus' flashback, he is chased by ships based on the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]'' and the ''[[Darksyde (BW)|Darksyde]]''.
* Rodimus ripping off Nitro's face is a visual homage to [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]] doing the same to [[The Fallen]] in ''[[Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (film)| Revenge of the Fallen]]''. <ref name=TFN2022>Nick Roche at TFNation 2022, 2022/08/14</ref>
* The killer rabbit leaving the space pod on the final page is [[Moon (BW)|Moon]], a transforming bunny who debuted in the ''[[Beast Wars II: Super Lifeform Transformers (cartoon)|Beast Wars II]]'' television show. In that cartoon, Moon was not, in fact, of [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertronian]] origin; he and his android friend [[Artemis]] were ''[[human]]'' creations, overseers of an abandoned [[Earth]] many thousands of years after the disappearance of their creators. Given this comic's far-future setting, we're wondering if the choice to include this specific character might not factor into the plot of future issues...
** Originally, Moon's role was conceived as going to [[Waddlepop]]—this was a rare case of Hasbro vetoing such a choice. Roche also considered [[Signal Lancer (Cybertron)|Signal Lancer]] but felt a traffic light would be a little ''too silly'' an image to end on.<ref name=TFN2022 />
*The joke/consistency of all Primes being given trailers, by the matrix, has finally come full circle as Rodimus literally transforms into just a trailer in this issue.

===Other trivia===
* Backmatter for this plus-sized issue includes [[Nick Roche]]'s concept art for Shib, Trayvon, Beets, Tonder, Rodimus, the "Visitor", and some of the miscellaneous steam cars seen throughout the issue.

===Covers (6)===
* '''Cover A:''' In the desert, Rodimus walks, by [[Nick Roche]] and [[Josh Burcham]]
* '''Cover B:''' Everyone Rodimus knows goes away in the end, by [[Alex Milne]]
* '''Cover C:''' Stabbed in the back, by [[Gavin Spence]]
* '''Cover D:''' Rodimus and Shib, by [[Phil Knott]]
* '''Online exclusive cover:''' Famous Cybertronians, by [[Rui Onishi]]
* '''Retailer incentive cover:''' Rodimus and the citizens of Fembrance, by [[E. J. Su]]

<gallery>
LastBotStanding 1 cvrA.jpg
LastBotStanding 1 cvrB.jpg
LastBotStanding 1 cvrC.jpg
LastBotStanding 1 cvrD.jpg
LastBotStanding 1 cvrRE.jpg
LastBotStanding 1 cvrRI.jpg
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* ''Parker''
* ''Captain Action: The Classic Collection''
* ''Locke & Keye: The Golden Age''
* ''Hellboy: Artisan Edition''
* ''Best of [[Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles|TMNT]] Collection''
* ''The Rocketeer: The Great Race''

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* [https://www.flickeringmyth.com/2022/05/comic-book-preview-transformers-last-bot-standing-1/ Preview]

[[Category:Last Bot Standing issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 18

2025-03-25T21:04:28Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #18
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 17
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 19
|image=Transformers 2023 18 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[March 12]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=March 2025
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Jorge Corona]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''While the Autobots on Cybertron have gained a powerful new ally, their comrades on Earth face enemies old and new.'''

==Synopsis==
On [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], outside the [[Well of All Sparks|Well of Sparks]], [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]], [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]], and [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] are pinned down by a trio of attacking [[Decepticon]]s: the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]s [[Bitstream (G1)|Bitstream]] and [[Hotlink (G1)|Hotlink]] and the bestial [[Carnivac (G1)|Carnivac]]. Bluestreak tries to call [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]], but sadly can't get through to the [[Autobot]] commander. However, as Carnivac prepares to chow down on Bluestreak, he is saved by the timely intervention of a black van crashing into the Decepticon wolf. [[Shredhead]] transforms and uses their energy sword to quickly dispatch the three Decepticons. The Autobots are then joined by [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] and Elita, who believes their newest soldier has just turned the tide.

On [[Earth]], [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]], [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]], and [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] camp inside [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]' makeshift fort on the [[San Juan Islands]] while [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] confers with her [[Iron Intercessor]]. Like the other Autobots, Magnus is captivated by the beauty of Earth, but admits that he's unable to appreciate it, so clouded by the trauma of his imprisonment at the hands of [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]. Arcee tries to assure Magnus that they can still face the future, but the mighty warrior is too despondent. Carly sympathizes with Magnus, as she and Spike also had their lives destroyed by the Decepticons. She thinks that their pain is what brings them together, reassuring Magnus that he’s not alone. However, at that moment, Magnus sees [[G.I. Joe (team)|a group of soldiers]] moving towards the fort. In a panic, he fires on them. Arcee tries to get him to stop, but the group is quickly beset by attack helicopters, triggering flashbacks to Magnus' imprisonment and causing him to attack them. Beachcomber and Spike escape, but a tranquilizer dart knocks out Carly. Arcee grabs her [[iron apprentice]], but an explosion knocks them to the ground. As she recovers, she can only watch as both Carly and Ultra Magnus are carried away by the soldiers.

[[File:TF2023 no. 18 - Megatron Returns.jpg|thumb|Dad's home.|150px|left]]

Meanwhile, in [[Seattle]], the remaining Autobots do what they can to evacuate the humans from the chaos caused by the brawl between [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] and [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]. Unfortunately, they can only do so much as the two combiners tear through the city. [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] provides the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s air support aboard [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]], but is taken down by [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] ejecting [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]], sending Astrotrain crashing onto the top of a skyscraper. Bruticus goes to rescue his leader with Devastator in pursuit, each giant climbing the tower. As they near the top, Devastator grabs Bruticus in a chokehold, sending them both crashing back to Earth and leveling a city block, much to [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]'s horror.

Soundwave corners Starscream on the roof, berating him for how low his actions have brought him and readying to execute him. Starscream then gets a second wind and retaliates, ripping open Soundwave's chest compartment and pulling out [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]]’s still inactive body, mocking Soundwave’s concern for his tapes. However, their fight is interrupted by the return of [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], who orders them to stop with a single word. He picks up Ravage and, using his own spark, reactivates him as a reward for Soundwave’s loyalty. As Optimus looks up in horror to see his old nemesis alive, he gives his fellow Autobots a single order: retreat.

{{--}}

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] (1)
* [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]] (2)
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] (3)
* [[Shredhead]] (7)
* [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] (8)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (9)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (10)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (11)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (14)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (16)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (17)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (20)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (21)

|c2=
* [[Bitstream (G1)|Bitstream]] (4)
* [[Carnivac (G1)|Carnivac]] (5)
* [[Hotlink (G1)|Hotlink]] (6)
* [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] (18)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (19)
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (22)
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (23)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (24)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (25)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (26)
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (27)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (28)

||c3=
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (12)
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (13)
* [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]] soldiers (15)
}}

==Quotes==
"You guys ready to shred?"
:—'''Shredhead''' to the Decepticons

"But all I see now is the unknown. The vastness. The dark. Shockwave ruined it all." 
"But… he’s gone now. He can’t hurt us anymore. Prime made sure of it." 
"It’s too late, Arcee. Shockwave taught me the depths of what one Cybertronian can do to another. How can I believe in anything anymore?"
:—'''Ultra Magnus''' and '''Arcee'''

"NO, NO, '''NO!''' WHY CAN'T '''ANYTHING''' GO MY WAY?!" 
"Because you are stupid Starscream. Guided only by fear. Hate. Selfishness. You cannot even move yourself without the Earthlings' technology. What a pathetic end for you."
:—'''Soundwave''' to '''Starscream'''

"What a good soldier you are, [[Ravage (G1)|small thing]]. And what a faithful servant [[Soundwave (G1)|your father]] is."
:—'''Megatron'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Rumble is still missing his right piledriver arm after losing it to [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 5|issue #5]].
* We saw firsthand what became of Magnus while he was captured by Shockwave back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 7|issue #7]], and the debilitating effects it had on him when he fled from battle in [[Transformers (2023) issue 11|issue #11]].
* Arcee tells Magnus that Shockwave can no longer hurt him, having been killed by Optimus Prime in [[Transformers (2023) issue 12|issue #12]].
* The soldiers that attack Magnus and company are shown to be wearing the star emblem of G.I. Joe, making it the first explicit reference to the highly trained special mission force in this series. While these soldiers are mere nameless troops, not the more colorfully costumed individuals we’re used to seeing from the main team appearing in the [[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|''G.I. Joe'' series]], the [[G.I. Joe Energon Universe Special story|''G.I. Joe'' segment]] of the ''[[Energon Universe 2024 Special]]'' did hint that the organization was larger than initially seemed.
* Soundwave has been trying to repair Ravage ever since Optimus shot him in [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|the first issue]].
* Starscream is shocked to see Megatron alive, believing he had killed the Decepticon leader in the [[Transformers Energon Universe Special story|''Transformers'' segment]] of the ''Energon Universe 2024 Special''. However, readers of ''[[Cobra Commander (comic)|Cobra Commander]]'' know that Megatron was found by the secret society of [[Cobra-La]] before escaping and being found by Laserbeak in [[Transformers (2023) issue 16|issue #16]].
* Astrotrain has been nursing his own grudge against Megatron, for reasons not yet fully revealed, though issue #16 hinted Megatron was responsible for killing Astrotrain’s love.
*Both Bluetreak and Optimus make references to "Primus", further implying his existence or a belief system in him.

===''Transformers'' references===
* Bitstream and Hotlink were both originally generic Seekers that appeared as the "welcoming committee" in the first episode of the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]], "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]". They were given names and personalities when released as exclusive toys for [[BotCon 2013]].
* Elita’s comment that they’ve “turned the tide” echoes Kup’s line from ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.

===Errors===
* On page 1, panel 6, Carnivac interrupts Hotlink, but based on their colors, it's Bitstream who was talking (that, or Hotlink was just consistently miscolored as Bitstream and vice versa).
* On page 12, panel 5, Soundwave's speech bubble lacks its unique blue and yellow colors, instead rendered in standard black and white.
*Once again, Ultra Magnus’s head antennas are colored Blue instead of white. Whether this is an intentional change is hard to tell, as every other time he is shown, their color change. Issue 7 (White), Issue 11 (Blue), issue 17 (White), and Issue 18 (Blue). For the purposes of “Errors” Blue will be considered the error (until more evidence releases), as white matches his G1 head design, which this comic is based on.

===Other notes===
* The cover art for this issue was originally created for Skybound's pitch to Hasbro.<ref>https://www.felixcomicart.com/gallerypiece.asp?piece=34417</ref>

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Starscream and Bruticus, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' Megatron and Laserbeak, by Jorge Corona and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover by [[Karl Kerschl]].
* '''Cover D:''' Two teenage Transformers fans watch Bruticus and Devastator battle, by [[Filya Bratukhin]] & [[Rex Lokus]].
* '''Cover E:''' Optimus and Arcee, by [[Oliver Kiyoshi Ono]].
* '''Cover F:''' Shredhead, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover F.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Unknown Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Unknown Comics Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Unknown Comics Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 The 616 Comics Cover.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 5|#5]], ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 18|#18]], and ''Transformers'' #17.
* Energon Universe hardcovers
* ''Invincible Universe: Battle Beast''

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 3: Combiner Chaos''''' ([[May 28]], [[2025]]) ISBN 153432559X / ISBN 978-1534325593 
** Collects issues #13–18 and the [[Transformers Energon Universe Special story|''Transformers'' story]] from ''[[Energon Universe 2024 Special]]''.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V3.jpg|'''''Volume 3: Combiner Chaos''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 18

2025-03-25T17:47:44Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #18
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 17
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 19
|image=Transformers 2023 18 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[March 12]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=March 2025
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Jorge Corona]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''While the Autobots on Cybertron have gained a powerful new ally, their comrades on Earth face enemies old and new.'''

==Synopsis==
On [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], outside the [[Well of All Sparks|Well of Sparks]], [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]], [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]], and [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] are pinned down by a trio of attacking [[Decepticon]]s: the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]s [[Bitstream (G1)|Bitstream]] and [[Hotlink (G1)|Hotlink]] and the bestial [[Carnivac (G1)|Carnivac]]. Bluestreak tries to call [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]], but sadly can't get through to the [[Autobot]] commander. However, as Carnivac prepares to chow down on Bluestreak, he is saved by the timely intervention of a black van crashing into the Decepticon wolf. [[Shredhead]] transforms and uses their energy sword to quickly dispatch the three Decepticons. The Autobots are then joined by [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] and Elita, who believes their newest soldier has just turned the tide.

On [[Earth]], [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]], [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]], and [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] camp inside [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]' makeshift fort on the [[San Juan Islands]] while [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] confers with her [[Iron Intercessor]]. Like the other Autobots, Magnus is captivated by the beauty of Earth, but admits that he's unable to appreciate it, so clouded by the trauma of his imprisonment at the hands of [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]. Arcee tries to assure Magnus that they can still face the future, but the mighty warrior is too despondent. Carly sympathizes with Magnus, as she and Spike also had their lives destroyed by the Decepticons. She thinks that their pain is what brings them together, reassuring Magnus that he’s not alone. However, at that moment, Magnus sees [[G.I. Joe (team)|a group of soldiers]] moving towards the fort. In a panic, he fires on them. Arcee tries to get him to stop, but the group is quickly beset by attack helicopters, triggering flashbacks to Magnus' imprisonment and causing him to attack them. Beachcomber and Spike escape, but a tranquilizer dart knocks out Carly. Arcee grabs her [[iron apprentice]], but an explosion knocks them to the ground. As she recovers, she can only watch as both Carly and Ultra Magnus are carried away by the soldiers.

[[File:TF2023 no. 18 - Megatron Returns.jpg|thumb|Dad's home.|150px|left]]

Meanwhile, in [[Seattle]], the remaining Autobots do what they can to evacuate the humans from the chaos caused by the brawl between [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] and [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]. Unfortunately, they can only do so much as the two combiners tear through the city. [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] provides the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s air support aboard [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]], but is taken down by [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] ejecting [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]], sending Astrotrain crashing onto the top of a skyscraper. Bruticus goes to rescue his leader with Devastator in pursuit, each giant climbing the tower. As they near the top, Devastator grabs Bruticus in a chokehold, sending them both crashing back to Earth and leveling a city block, much to [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]'s horror.

Soundwave corners Starscream on the roof, berating him for how low his actions have brought him and readying to execute him. Starscream then gets a second wind and retaliates, ripping open Soundwave's chest compartment and pulling out [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]]’s still inactive body, mocking Soundwave’s concern for his tapes. However, their fight is interrupted by the return of [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], who orders them to stop with a single word. He picks up Ravage and, using his own spark, reactivates him as a reward for Soundwave’s loyalty. As Optimus looks up in horror to see his old nemesis alive, he gives his fellow Autobots a single order: retreat.

{{--}}

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] (1)
* [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]] (2)
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] (3)
* [[Shredhead]] (7)
* [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] (8)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (9)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (10)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (11)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (14)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (16)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (17)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (20)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (21)

|c2=
* [[Bitstream (G1)|Bitstream]] (4)
* [[Carnivac (G1)|Carnivac]] (5)
* [[Hotlink (G1)|Hotlink]] (6)
* [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] (18)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (19)
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (22)
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (23)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (24)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (25)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (26)
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (27)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (28)

||c3=
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (12)
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (13)
* [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]] soldiers (15)
}}

==Quotes==
"You guys ready to shred?"
:—'''Shredhead''' to the Decepticons

"But all I see now is the unknown. The vastness. The dark. Shockwave ruined it all." 
"But… he’s gone now. He can’t hurt us anymore. Prime made sure of it." 
"It’s too late, Arcee. Shockwave taught me the depths of what one Cybertronian can do to another. How can I believe in anything anymore?"
:—'''Ultra Magnus''' and '''Arcee'''

"NO, NO, '''NO!''' WHY CAN'T '''ANYTHING''' GO MY WAY?!" 
"Because you are stupid Starscream. Guided only by fear. Hate. Selfishness. You cannot even move yourself without the Earthlings' technology. What a pathetic end for you."
:—'''Soundwave''' to '''Starscream'''

"What a good soldier you are, [[Ravage (G1)|small thing]]. And what a faithful servant [[Soundwave (G1)|your father]] is."
:—'''Megatron'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Rumble is still missing his right piledriver arm after losing it to [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 5|issue #5]].
* We saw firsthand what became of Magnus while he was captured by Shockwave back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 7|issue #7]], and the debilitating effects it had on him when he fled from battle in [[Transformers (2023) issue 11|issue #11]].
* Arcee tells Magnus that Shockwave can no longer hurt him, having been killed by Optimus Prime in [[Transformers (2023) issue 12|issue #12]].
* The soldiers that attack Magnus and company are shown to be wearing the star emblem of G.I. Joe, making it the first explicit reference to the highly trained special mission force in this series. While these soldiers are mere nameless troops, not the more colorfully costumed individuals we’re used to seeing from the main team appearing in the [[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|''G.I. Joe'' series]], the [[G.I. Joe Energon Universe Special story|''G.I. Joe'' segment]] of the ''[[Energon Universe 2024 Special]]'' did hint that the organization was larger than initially seemed.
* Soundwave has been trying to repair Ravage ever since Optimus shot him in [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|the first issue]].
* Starscream is shocked to see Megatron alive, believing he had killed the Decepticon leader in the [[Transformers Energon Universe Special story|''Transformers'' segment]] of the ''Energon Universe 2024 Special''. However, readers of ''[[Cobra Commander (comic)|Cobra Commander]]'' know that Megatron was found by the secret society of [[Cobra-La]] before escaping and being found by Laserbeak in [[Transformers (2023) issue 16|issue #16]].
* Astrotrain has been nursing his own grudge against Megatron, for reasons not yet fully revealed, though issue #16 hinted Megatron was responsible for killing Astrotrain’s love.
*Both Smokescreen and Optimus make references to "Primus", further implying his existence or a belief system in him.

===''Transformers'' references===
* Bitstream and Hotlink were both originally generic Seekers that appeared as the "welcoming committee" in the first episode of the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]], "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]". They were given names and personalities when released as exclusive toys for [[BotCon 2013]].
* Elita’s comment that they’ve “turned the tide” echoes Kup’s line from ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.

===Errors===
* On page 1, panel 6, Carnivac interrupts Hotlink, but based on their colors, it's Bitstream who was talking (that, or Hotlink was just consistently miscolored as Bitstream and vice versa).
* On page 12, panel 5, Soundwave's speech bubble lacks its unique blue and yellow colors, instead rendered in standard black and white.
*Once again, Ultra Magnus’s head antennas are colored Blue instead of white. Whether this is an intentional change is hard to tell, as every other time he is shown, their color change. Issue 7 (White), Issue 11 (Blue), issue 17 (White), and Issue 18 (Blue). For the purposes of “Errors” Blue will be considered the error (until more evidence releases), as white matches his G1 head design, which this comic is based on.

===Other notes===
* The cover art for this issue was originally created for Skybound's pitch to Hasbro.<ref>https://www.felixcomicart.com/gallerypiece.asp?piece=34417</ref>

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Starscream and Bruticus, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' Megatron and Laserbeak, by Jorge Corona and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover by [[Karl Kerschl]].
* '''Cover D:''' Two teenage Transformers fans watch Bruticus and Devastator battle, by [[Filya Bratukhin]] & [[Rex Lokus]].
* '''Cover E:''' Optimus and Arcee, by [[Oliver Kiyoshi Ono]].
* '''Cover F:''' Shredhead, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover F.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Unknown Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Unknown Comics Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Unknown Comics Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 The 616 Comics Cover.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 5|#5]], ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 18|#18]], and ''Transformers'' #17.
* Energon Universe hardcovers
* ''Invincible Universe: Battle Beast''

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 3: Combiner Chaos''''' ([[May 28]], [[2025]]) ISBN 153432559X / ISBN 978-1534325593 
** Collects issues #13–18 and the [[Transformers Energon Universe Special story|''Transformers'' story]] from ''[[Energon Universe 2024 Special]]''.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V3.jpg|'''''Volume 3: Combiner Chaos''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 18

2025-03-25T17:43:08Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #18
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 17
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 19
|image=Transformers 2023 18 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[March 12]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=March 2025
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Jorge Corona]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''While the Autobots on Cybertron have gained a powerful new ally, their comrades on Earth face enemies old and new.'''

==Synopsis==
On [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], outside the [[Well of All Sparks|Well of Sparks]], [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]], [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]], and [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] are pinned down by a trio of attacking [[Decepticon]]s: the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]s [[Bitstream (G1)|Bitstream]] and [[Hotlink (G1)|Hotlink]] and the bestial [[Carnivac (G1)|Carnivac]]. Bluestreak tries to call [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]], but sadly can't get through to the [[Autobot]] commander. However, as Carnivac prepares to chow down on Bluestreak, he is saved by the timely intervention of a black van crashing into the Decepticon wolf. [[Shredhead]] transforms and uses their energy sword to quickly dispatch the three Decepticons. The Autobots are then joined by [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] and Elita, who believes their newest soldier has just turned the tide.

On [[Earth]], [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]], [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]], and [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] camp inside [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]' makeshift fort on the [[San Juan Islands]] while [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] confers with her [[Iron Intercessor]]. Like the other Autobots, Magnus is captivated by the beauty of Earth, but admits that he's unable to appreciate it, so clouded by the trauma of his imprisonment at the hands of [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]. Arcee tries to assure Magnus that they can still face the future, but the mighty warrior is too despondent. Carly sympathizes with Magnus, as she and Spike also had their lives destroyed by the Decepticons. She thinks that their pain is what brings them together, reassuring Magnus that he’s not alone. However, at that moment, Magnus sees [[G.I. Joe (team)|a group of soldiers]] moving towards the fort. In a panic, he fires on them. Arcee tries to get him to stop, but the group is quickly beset by attack helicopters, triggering flashbacks to Magnus' imprisonment and causing him to attack them. Beachcomber and Spike escape, but a tranquilizer dart knocks out Carly. Arcee grabs her [[iron apprentice]], but an explosion knocks them to the ground. As she recovers, she can only watch as both Carly and Ultra Magnus are carried away by the soldiers.

[[File:TF2023 no. 18 - Megatron Returns.jpg|thumb|Dad's home.|150px|left]]

Meanwhile, in [[Seattle]], the remaining Autobots do what they can to evacuate the humans from the chaos caused by the brawl between [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] and [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]. Unfortunately, they can only do so much as the two combiners tear through the city. [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] provides the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s air support aboard [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]], but is taken down by [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] ejecting [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]], sending Astrotrain crashing onto the top of a skyscraper. Bruticus goes to rescue his leader with Devastator in pursuit, each giant climbing the tower. As they near the top, Devastator grabs Bruticus in a chokehold, sending them both crashing back to Earth and leveling a city block, much to [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]'s horror.

Soundwave corners Starscream on the roof, berating him for how low his actions have brought him and readying to execute him. Starscream then gets a second wind and retaliates, ripping open Soundwave's chest compartment and pulling out [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]]’s still inactive body, mocking Soundwave’s concern for his tapes. However, their fight is interrupted by the return of [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], who orders them to stop with a single word. He picks up Ravage and, using his own spark, reactivates him as a reward for Soundwave’s loyalty. As Optimus looks up in horror to see his old nemesis alive, he gives his fellow Autobots a single order: retreat.

{{--}}

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] (1)
* [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]] (2)
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] (3)
* [[Shredhead]] (7)
* [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] (8)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (9)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (10)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (11)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (14)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (16)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (17)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (20)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (21)

|c2=
* [[Bitstream (G1)|Bitstream]] (4)
* [[Carnivac (G1)|Carnivac]] (5)
* [[Hotlink (G1)|Hotlink]] (6)
* [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] (18)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (19)
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (22)
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (23)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (24)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (25)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (26)
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (27)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (28)

||c3=
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (12)
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (13)
* [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]] soldiers (15)
}}

==Quotes==
"You guys ready to shred?"
:—'''Shredhead''' to the Decepticons

"But all I see now is the unknown. The vastness. The dark. Shockwave ruined it all." 
"But… he’s gone now. He can’t hurt us anymore. Prime made sure of it." 
"It’s too late, Arcee. Shockwave taught me the depths of what one Cybertronian can do to another. How can I believe in anything anymore?"
:—'''Ultra Magnus''' and '''Arcee'''

"NO, NO, '''NO!''' WHY CAN'T '''ANYTHING''' GO MY WAY?!" 
"Because you are stupid Starscream. Guided only by fear. Hate. Selfishness. You cannot even move yourself without the Earthlings' technology. What a pathetic end for you."
:—'''Soundwave''' to '''Starscream'''

"What a good soldier you are, [[Ravage (G1)|small thing]]. And what a faithful servant [[Soundwave (G1)|your father]] is."
:—'''Megatron'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Rumble is still missing his right piledriver arm after losing it to [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 5|issue #5]].
* We saw firsthand what became of Magnus while he was captured by Shockwave back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 7|issue #7]], and the debilitating effects it had on him when he fled from battle in [[Transformers (2023) issue 11|issue #11]].
* Arcee tells Magnus that Shockwave can no longer hurt him, having been killed by Optimus Prime in [[Transformers (2023) issue 12|issue #12]].
* The soldiers that attack Magnus and company are shown to be wearing the star emblem of G.I. Joe, making it the first explicit reference to the highly trained special mission force in this series. While these soldiers are mere nameless troops, not the more colorfully costumed individuals we’re used to seeing from the main team appearing in the [[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|''G.I. Joe'' series]], the [[G.I. Joe Energon Universe Special story|''G.I. Joe'' segment]] of the ''[[Energon Universe 2024 Special]]'' did hint that the organization was larger than initially seemed.
* Soundwave has been trying to repair Ravage ever since Optimus shot him in [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|the first issue]].
* Starscream is shocked to see Megatron alive, believing he had killed the Decepticon leader in the [[Transformers Energon Universe Special story|''Transformers'' segment]] of the ''Energon Universe 2024 Special''. However, readers of ''[[Cobra Commander (comic)|Cobra Commander]]'' know that Megatron was found by the secret society of [[Cobra-La]] before escaping and being found by Laserbeak in [[Transformers (2023) issue 16|issue #16]].
* Astrotrain has been nursing his own grudge against Megatron, for reasons not yet fully revealed, though issue #16 hinted Megatron was responsible for killing Astrotrain’s love.
*Optimus makes another reference to "Primus", further implying his existence or a belief system in him.

===''Transformers'' references===
* Bitstream and Hotlink were both originally generic Seekers that appeared as the "welcoming committee" in the first episode of the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]], "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]". They were given names and personalities when released as exclusive toys for [[BotCon 2013]].
* Elita’s comment that they’ve “turned the tide” echoes Kup’s line from ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.

===Errors===
* On page 1, panel 6, Carnivac interrupts Hotlink, but based on their colors, it's Bitstream who was talking (that, or Hotlink was just consistently miscolored as Bitstream and vice versa).
* On page 12, panel 5, Soundwave's speech bubble lacks its unique blue and yellow colors, instead rendered in standard black and white.
*Once again, Ultra Magnus’s head antennas are colored Blue instead of white. Whether this is an intentional change is hard to tell, as every other time he is shown, their color change. Issue 7 (White), Issue 11 (Blue), issue 17 (White), and Issue 18 (Blue). For the purposes of “Errors” Blue will be considered the error (until more evidence releases), as white matches his G1 head design, which this comic is based on.

===Other notes===
* The cover art for this issue was originally created for Skybound's pitch to Hasbro.<ref>https://www.felixcomicart.com/gallerypiece.asp?piece=34417</ref>

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Starscream and Bruticus, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' Megatron and Laserbeak, by Jorge Corona and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover by [[Karl Kerschl]].
* '''Cover D:''' Two teenage Transformers fans watch Bruticus and Devastator battle, by [[Filya Bratukhin]] & [[Rex Lokus]].
* '''Cover E:''' Optimus and Arcee, by [[Oliver Kiyoshi Ono]].
* '''Cover F:''' Shredhead, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover F.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Unknown Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Unknown Comics Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Unknown Comics Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 The 616 Comics Cover.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 5|#5]], ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 18|#18]], and ''Transformers'' #17.
* Energon Universe hardcovers
* ''Invincible Universe: Battle Beast''

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 3: Combiner Chaos''''' ([[May 28]], [[2025]]) ISBN 153432559X / ISBN 978-1534325593 
** Collects issues #13–18 and the [[Transformers Energon Universe Special story|''Transformers'' story]] from ''[[Energon Universe 2024 Special]]''.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V3.jpg|'''''Volume 3: Combiner Chaos''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 18

2025-03-25T17:40:39Z

Diesel Prime: /* Errors */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #18
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 17
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 19
|image=Transformers 2023 18 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[March 12]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=March 2025
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Jorge Corona]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''While the Autobots on Cybertron have gained a powerful new ally, their comrades on Earth face enemies old and new.'''

==Synopsis==
On [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], outside the [[Well of All Sparks|Well of Sparks]], [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]], [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]], and [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] are pinned down by a trio of attacking [[Decepticon]]s: the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]s [[Bitstream (G1)|Bitstream]] and [[Hotlink (G1)|Hotlink]] and the bestial [[Carnivac (G1)|Carnivac]]. Bluestreak tries to call [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]], but sadly can't get through to the [[Autobot]] commander. However, as Carnivac prepares to chow down on Bluestreak, he is saved by the timely intervention of a black van crashing into the Decepticon wolf. [[Shredhead]] transforms and uses their energy sword to quickly dispatch the three Decepticons. The Autobots are then joined by [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] and Elita, who believes their newest soldier has just turned the tide.

On [[Earth]], [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]], [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]], and [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] camp inside [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]' makeshift fort on the [[San Juan Islands]] while [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] confers with her [[Iron Intercessor]]. Like the other Autobots, Magnus is captivated by the beauty of Earth, but admits that he's unable to appreciate it, so clouded by the trauma of his imprisonment at the hands of [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]. Arcee tries to assure Magnus that they can still face the future, but the mighty warrior is too despondent. Carly sympathizes with Magnus, as she and Spike also had their lives destroyed by the Decepticons. She thinks that their pain is what brings them together, reassuring Magnus that he’s not alone. However, at that moment, Magnus sees [[G.I. Joe (team)|a group of soldiers]] moving towards the fort. In a panic, he fires on them. Arcee tries to get him to stop, but the group is quickly beset by attack helicopters, triggering flashbacks to Magnus' imprisonment and causing him to attack them. Beachcomber and Spike escape, but a tranquilizer dart knocks out Carly. Arcee grabs her [[iron apprentice]], but an explosion knocks them to the ground. As she recovers, she can only watch as both Carly and Ultra Magnus are carried away by the soldiers.

[[File:TF2023 no. 18 - Megatron Returns.jpg|thumb|Dad's home.|150px|left]]

Meanwhile, in [[Seattle]], the remaining Autobots do what they can to evacuate the humans from the chaos caused by the brawl between [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] and [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]. Unfortunately, they can only do so much as the two combiners tear through the city. [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] provides the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s air support aboard [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]], but is taken down by [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] ejecting [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]], sending Astrotrain crashing onto the top of a skyscraper. Bruticus goes to rescue his leader with Devastator in pursuit, each giant climbing the tower. As they near the top, Devastator grabs Bruticus in a chokehold, sending them both crashing back to Earth and leveling a city block, much to [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]'s horror.

Soundwave corners Starscream on the roof, berating him for how low his actions have brought him and readying to execute him. Starscream then gets a second wind and retaliates, ripping open Soundwave's chest compartment and pulling out [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]]’s still inactive body, mocking Soundwave’s concern for his tapes. However, their fight is interrupted by the return of [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], who orders them to stop with a single word. He picks up Ravage and, using his own spark, reactivates him as a reward for Soundwave’s loyalty. As Optimus looks up in horror to see his old nemesis alive, he gives his fellow Autobots a single order: retreat.

{{--}}

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] (1)
* [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]] (2)
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] (3)
* [[Shredhead]] (7)
* [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] (8)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (9)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (10)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (11)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (14)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (16)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (17)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (20)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (21)

|c2=
* [[Bitstream (G1)|Bitstream]] (4)
* [[Carnivac (G1)|Carnivac]] (5)
* [[Hotlink (G1)|Hotlink]] (6)
* [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] (18)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (19)
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (22)
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (23)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (24)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (25)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (26)
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (27)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (28)

||c3=
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (12)
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (13)
* [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]] soldiers (15)
}}

==Quotes==
"You guys ready to shred?"
:—'''Shredhead''' to the Decepticons

"But all I see now is the unknown. The vastness. The dark. Shockwave ruined it all." 
"But… he’s gone now. He can’t hurt us anymore. Prime made sure of it." 
"It’s too late, Arcee. Shockwave taught me the depths of what one Cybertronian can do to another. How can I believe in anything anymore?"
:—'''Ultra Magnus''' and '''Arcee'''

"NO, NO, '''NO!''' WHY CAN'T '''ANYTHING''' GO MY WAY?!" 
"Because you are stupid Starscream. Guided only by fear. Hate. Selfishness. You cannot even move yourself without the Earthlings' technology. What a pathetic end for you."
:—'''Soundwave''' to '''Starscream'''

"What a good soldier you are, [[Ravage (G1)|small thing]]. And what a faithful servant [[Soundwave (G1)|your father]] is."
:—'''Megatron'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Rumble is still missing his right piledriver arm after losing it to [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 5|issue #5]].
* We saw firsthand what became of Magnus while he was captured by Shockwave back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 7|issue #7]], and the debilitating effects it had on him when he fled from battle in [[Transformers (2023) issue 11|issue #11]].
* Arcee tells Magnus that Shockwave can no longer hurt him, having been killed by Optimus Prime in [[Transformers (2023) issue 12|issue #12]].
* The soldiers that attack Magnus and company are shown to be wearing the star emblem of G.I. Joe, making it the first explicit reference to the highly trained special mission force in this series. While these soldiers are mere nameless troops, not the more colorfully costumed individuals we’re used to seeing from the main team appearing in the [[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|''G.I. Joe'' series]], the [[G.I. Joe Energon Universe Special story|''G.I. Joe'' segment]] of the ''[[Energon Universe 2024 Special]]'' did hint that the organization was larger than initially seemed.
* Soundwave has been trying to repair Ravage ever since Optimus shot him in [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|the first issue]].
* Starscream is shocked to see Megatron alive, believing he had killed the Decepticon leader in the [[Transformers Energon Universe Special story|''Transformers'' segment]] of the ''Energon Universe 2024 Special''. However, readers of ''[[Cobra Commander (comic)|Cobra Commander]]'' know that Megatron was found by the secret society of [[Cobra-La]] before escaping and being found by Laserbeak in [[Transformers (2023) issue 16|issue #16]].
* Astrotrain has been nursing his own grudge against Megatron, for reasons not yet fully revealed, though issue #16 hinted Megatron was responsible for killing Astrotrain’s love.

===''Transformers'' references===
* Bitstream and Hotlink were both originally generic Seekers that appeared as the "welcoming committee" in the first episode of the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]], "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]". They were given names and personalities when released as exclusive toys for [[BotCon 2013]].
* Elita’s comment that they’ve “turned the tide” echoes Kup’s line from ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.

===Errors===
* On page 1, panel 6, Carnivac interrupts Hotlink, but based on their colors, it's Bitstream who was talking (that, or Hotlink was just consistently miscolored as Bitstream and vice versa).
* On page 12, panel 5, Soundwave's speech bubble lacks its unique blue and yellow colors, instead rendered in standard black and white.
*Once again, Ultra Magnus’s head antennas are colored Blue instead of white. Whether this is an intentional change is hard to tell, as every other time he is shown, their color change. Issue 7 (White), Issue 11 (Blue), issue 17 (White), and Issue 18 (Blue). For the purposes of “Errors” Blue will be considered the error (until more evidence releases), as white matches his G1 head design, which this comic is based on.

===Other notes===
* The cover art for this issue was originally created for Skybound's pitch to Hasbro.<ref>https://www.felixcomicart.com/gallerypiece.asp?piece=34417</ref>

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Starscream and Bruticus, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' Megatron and Laserbeak, by Jorge Corona and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover by [[Karl Kerschl]].
* '''Cover D:''' Two teenage Transformers fans watch Bruticus and Devastator battle, by [[Filya Bratukhin]] & [[Rex Lokus]].
* '''Cover E:''' Optimus and Arcee, by [[Oliver Kiyoshi Ono]].
* '''Cover F:''' Shredhead, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover F.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Unknown Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Unknown Comics Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Unknown Comics Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 The 616 Comics Cover.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 5|#5]], ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 18|#18]], and ''Transformers'' #17.
* Energon Universe hardcovers
* ''Invincible Universe: Battle Beast''

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 3: Combiner Chaos''''' ([[May 28]], [[2025]]) ISBN 153432559X / ISBN 978-1534325593 
** Collects issues #13–18 and the [[Transformers Energon Universe Special story|''Transformers'' story]] from ''[[Energon Universe 2024 Special]]''.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V3.jpg|'''''Volume 3: Combiner Chaos''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 11

2025-03-25T17:32:33Z

Diesel Prime: /* Errors */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #11
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 10
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 12
|image=Transformers 2023 11 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[August 14]], [[2024]]
|coverdate=August 2024
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Jorge Corona]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''The Autobots must rescue their captured comrades from Shockwave’s clutches as the ultimate doom rains down upon them.'''

==Synopsis==
Using a high-tech surfboard, [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] investigates the whirlpool created by [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]'s attempt to bring [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] into [[Earth]] orbit.

Meanwhile, on the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'', [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] speaks to an unconcious [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]], guilt-ridden for leaving him to be tortured by Shockwave. [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] chastises Arcee for leaving as well, causing Arcee to deck her in anger. Witnessing this exchange, [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] asks what happened to him, leading Arcee to reveal that this is what happens to bots captured by Shockwave, meaning that [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] and [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] are likely being tortured as they speak. The idea horrifies Carly. [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] confers with [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] about Magnus’s repairs, but Wheeljack is unable to fully repair Ultra Magnus without [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]], and doing so would use up their remaining [[Energon]]. Wheeljack suggests that they could keep him in his current state and revive more [[Autobot]]s instead, but Magnus awakens and pleads with Optimus that he wants to fight as part of this new resistance.

Aboard the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]'', [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] asks Shockwave to take [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] back to Cybertron to be repaired, but Shockwave insists that there are more important matters to be attended to. He then returns to Cybertron himself and orders the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s to ready their defenses against any potential attacks from the remaining Autobot rebels. When the Combaticons inquire about the status of [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] and [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]], Shockwave brushes aside their concerns as well.

The Autobots quickly deduce that the [[space bridge]] bringing Cybertron is connected between the ''Nemesis'' and [[Shockwave's Tower|Shockwave' fortress]], using that to siphon the energy collected from Earth into Energon stores in the fortress. If they can destroy the ''Nemesis'', they can cut that connection off, but it's likely Shockwave already has enough Energon stored up to crush the remaining Autobots on Cybertron. Carly insists that their first priority should be rescuing Cliffjumper, to which Optimus agrees. However, Elita balks at this. She chastises Prime for leaving her and the rest of the Autobots alone on Cybertron for centuries and letting Shockwave's forces slowly destroy them. She does not want to risk losing their home to the [[Decepticon]]s to save this new world. Optimus merely says that he is confident in their abilities and old friends. Arcee, enraged by what the Decepticons did to Magnus, prepares for battle while Carly—surprised at the turn her [[Iron Intercessor]] has taken—looks on. Elita One tells her that she is proud to see her fire returning.

The Autobots formulate a plan: using [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]'s teleportation abilities, now connected to [[Teletraan I]], they will teleport inside the ''Nemesis'' and use a series of explosives to destroy the Decepticon flagship, severing its space bridge connection. Carly insists on coming along, believing rescuing Cliffjumper to be her responsibility, but both Optimus and Arcee refuse, promising to bring him home for her.

[[File:TF2023 no.11 - Ultra Magnus and Wheeljack.jpg|thumb|200px|left|[[Derek Yaniger|Yaniger]] would be proud.]]

Beachcomber returns to where he left [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] and [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] and tells Spike of what he saw. Spike asks if they should do something, but Beachcomber solemnly states that there's nothing they can do. He leaves a canister of Energon for Astrotrain before taking Spike to find another quiet part of the world to wait for the inevitable end. As they walk through the woods, Spike sees a deer and recalls when Optimus first stepped foot on the planet. Spike tells Beachcomber that while he knows the fighting is wrong, that doesn't mean they can just run away.

Aboard the ''Nemesis'', Shockwave continues to torture Jazz and Cliffjumper, but is interrupted by the arrival of Optimus Prime and the other Autobots. As Optimus frees their comrades and Elita finishes planting the charges, Arcee threatens to execute Shockwave, but Prime stops her, fearing what might happen if she gives into her anger. Unfortunately, her hesitation gives Shockwave an opening to attack, taking Cliffjumper hostage and escaping. The Decepticon leader orders the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]]s to form [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]], but Optimus isn't worried: teleporting in behind them are Wheeljack and the now fully restored Ultra Magnus!

However, upon seeing Shockwave again, Magnus freezes. He can't do it. In a fit of panic, he drops his weapon and retreats, apologizing all the while. As their strongest warrior drives off, Shockwave gloats. He broke the mind of the mighty Ultra Magnus, and now he’ll break the rest of the Autobots' bodies!
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (1)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (2)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (3)
* [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] (4)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (6)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (7)
* ''[[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]]'' (15)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (18)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (19)

|c2=
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (8)
* [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] (9)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (10)
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] (11)
* [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]] (12)
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] (13)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (14)
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (17)
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (18)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (19)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (20)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (21)
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (22)
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (23)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (24)

|c3=
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (5)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (16)
}}

==Quotes==
"I know how you feel, Beachcomber. It feels... 'wrong' to fight. But I don't think I have to. I just know I can't run away."
:—'''Spike''' finds his resolve.

"Ratchet said I was too concerned with this world. But I brought this war to them. They need us now." 
"We have our own problems, Optimus." 
"That is true. But I am beginning to think we need them to survive, as well."
:—'''Optimus Prime''' and '''Elita One''' talk objectives.

"HAHAHA! I broke his mind! And now I will break your bodies!"
:—'''Shockwave''' celebrates over the Autobots

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Soundwave has been trying to repair Ravage ever since Optimus damaged him back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|issue #1]].
* The Combaticons were shown to be defending Shockwave's fortress in [[Transformers (2023) issue 7|issue #7]].
* Skywarp's willingness to help the Autobots is likely due to the combination of wanting revenge for what Soundwave and [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] did to him back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 4|issue #4]], as well as Arcee saving him from Carly’s attack in [[Transformers (2023) issue 8|issue #8]].
* Spike recalls Optimus's unfortunate encounter with another deer from [[Transformers (2023) issue 2|issue #2]].

===''Transformers'' references===
* Beachcomber's use of a surfboard is likely a reference to a similar scene in the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode “[[The Ultimate Doom, Part 3]]” - the multi-part epic this arc is largely based on - where the Autobots must surf to reach the [[sea funnel]].
* Just as in [[Transformers (2023) issue 9|issue #9]], Shockwave is shown as highly emotional, even laughing. He continues to be starkly out-of-character compared to everybody else, in a way that sure ''looks'' deliberate....

===Real-world references===
* Shockwave's battle cry is "[[X-Men|To me, my Decepticons!!!]]".

===Errors===
*Soundwave informs Shockwave that the portal to Cybertron has been repaired. Shockwave already knows this, as last issue, he himself told Soundwave the very same thing! (And no, nothing seems to have happened to it in between issues.)
*Once rebuilt, Ultra Magnus’s head antennas are now colored blue, as opposed to them being white (like his G1 Counterpart) when He is first shown in Arcee’s flashback in issue 7.

===Other trivia===

===Covers===
{{comicstub|9/17 covers documented}}
* '''Cover A:''' Shockwave fires on Optimus, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' Shockwave attacks Elita, by Jorge Corona and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C (1:10 Copy Incentive):''' Connecting cover, by [[Karen S. Darboe]].
* '''Cover D (1:25 Copy Incentive):''' Elita fires a blast, by [[Ludo Lullabi]].
* '''Cover E (1:50 Copy Incentive):''' Shockwave stands over a fallen Optimus, by [[Wes Craig]].
* '''Carnivore Comics Cover:''' by [[Ryan G. Browne]].
* '''Big Time Collectables Cover:''' by [[Ivan Tao]].
* '''The 616 Comics Cover A:''' by [[Tiago da Silva]].
* '''The 616 Comics Cover B:''' by Tiago da Silva.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Carnivore Comics Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Big Time Collectibles Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 The 616 Comics Cover B.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[Scarlett (comic)|Scarlett]]'' [[Scarlett issue 4|#4]] and ''[[Destro (comic)|Destro]]'' [[Destro issue 4|#4]].
* ''Invincible: The Hero-Building Game''
* ''Impact Winter''
* Experience the Energon Universe in the trade paperbacks for ''Transformers'', ''[[Void Rivals]]'', ''[[Duke (comic)|Duke]]'', and ''[[Cobra Commander (comic)|Cobra Commander]]''
* Skybound Insiders

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 2: Transport to Oblivion''''' ([[November 27]], [[2024]]) ISBN 1534345272 / ISBN 978-1534345270 
** Collects issues #7–12.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V2.jpg|'''''Volume 2: Transport to Oblivion''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 11

2025-03-25T17:31:31Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #11
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 10
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 12
|image=Transformers 2023 11 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[August 14]], [[2024]]
|coverdate=August 2024
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Jorge Corona]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''The Autobots must rescue their captured comrades from Shockwave’s clutches as the ultimate doom rains down upon them.'''

==Synopsis==
Using a high-tech surfboard, [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] investigates the whirlpool created by [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]'s attempt to bring [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] into [[Earth]] orbit.

Meanwhile, on the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'', [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] speaks to an unconcious [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]], guilt-ridden for leaving him to be tortured by Shockwave. [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] chastises Arcee for leaving as well, causing Arcee to deck her in anger. Witnessing this exchange, [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] asks what happened to him, leading Arcee to reveal that this is what happens to bots captured by Shockwave, meaning that [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] and [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] are likely being tortured as they speak. The idea horrifies Carly. [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] confers with [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] about Magnus’s repairs, but Wheeljack is unable to fully repair Ultra Magnus without [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]], and doing so would use up their remaining [[Energon]]. Wheeljack suggests that they could keep him in his current state and revive more [[Autobot]]s instead, but Magnus awakens and pleads with Optimus that he wants to fight as part of this new resistance.

Aboard the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]'', [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] asks Shockwave to take [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] back to Cybertron to be repaired, but Shockwave insists that there are more important matters to be attended to. He then returns to Cybertron himself and orders the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s to ready their defenses against any potential attacks from the remaining Autobot rebels. When the Combaticons inquire about the status of [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] and [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]], Shockwave brushes aside their concerns as well.

The Autobots quickly deduce that the [[space bridge]] bringing Cybertron is connected between the ''Nemesis'' and [[Shockwave's Tower|Shockwave' fortress]], using that to siphon the energy collected from Earth into Energon stores in the fortress. If they can destroy the ''Nemesis'', they can cut that connection off, but it's likely Shockwave already has enough Energon stored up to crush the remaining Autobots on Cybertron. Carly insists that their first priority should be rescuing Cliffjumper, to which Optimus agrees. However, Elita balks at this. She chastises Prime for leaving her and the rest of the Autobots alone on Cybertron for centuries and letting Shockwave's forces slowly destroy them. She does not want to risk losing their home to the [[Decepticon]]s to save this new world. Optimus merely says that he is confident in their abilities and old friends. Arcee, enraged by what the Decepticons did to Magnus, prepares for battle while Carly—surprised at the turn her [[Iron Intercessor]] has taken—looks on. Elita One tells her that she is proud to see her fire returning.

The Autobots formulate a plan: using [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]'s teleportation abilities, now connected to [[Teletraan I]], they will teleport inside the ''Nemesis'' and use a series of explosives to destroy the Decepticon flagship, severing its space bridge connection. Carly insists on coming along, believing rescuing Cliffjumper to be her responsibility, but both Optimus and Arcee refuse, promising to bring him home for her.

[[File:TF2023 no.11 - Ultra Magnus and Wheeljack.jpg|thumb|200px|left|[[Derek Yaniger|Yaniger]] would be proud.]]

Beachcomber returns to where he left [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] and [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] and tells Spike of what he saw. Spike asks if they should do something, but Beachcomber solemnly states that there's nothing they can do. He leaves a canister of Energon for Astrotrain before taking Spike to find another quiet part of the world to wait for the inevitable end. As they walk through the woods, Spike sees a deer and recalls when Optimus first stepped foot on the planet. Spike tells Beachcomber that while he knows the fighting is wrong, that doesn't mean they can just run away.

Aboard the ''Nemesis'', Shockwave continues to torture Jazz and Cliffjumper, but is interrupted by the arrival of Optimus Prime and the other Autobots. As Optimus frees their comrades and Elita finishes planting the charges, Arcee threatens to execute Shockwave, but Prime stops her, fearing what might happen if she gives into her anger. Unfortunately, her hesitation gives Shockwave an opening to attack, taking Cliffjumper hostage and escaping. The Decepticon leader orders the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]]s to form [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]], but Optimus isn't worried: teleporting in behind them are Wheeljack and the now fully restored Ultra Magnus!

However, upon seeing Shockwave again, Magnus freezes. He can't do it. In a fit of panic, he drops his weapon and retreats, apologizing all the while. As their strongest warrior drives off, Shockwave gloats. He broke the mind of the mighty Ultra Magnus, and now he’ll break the rest of the Autobots' bodies!
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (1)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (2)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (3)
* [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] (4)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (6)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (7)
* ''[[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]]'' (15)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (18)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (19)

|c2=
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (8)
* [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] (9)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (10)
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] (11)
* [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]] (12)
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] (13)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (14)
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (17)
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (18)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (19)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (20)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (21)
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (22)
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (23)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (24)

|c3=
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (5)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (16)
}}

==Quotes==
"I know how you feel, Beachcomber. It feels... 'wrong' to fight. But I don't think I have to. I just know I can't run away."
:—'''Spike''' finds his resolve.

"Ratchet said I was too concerned with this world. But I brought this war to them. They need us now." 
"We have our own problems, Optimus." 
"That is true. But I am beginning to think we need them to survive, as well."
:—'''Optimus Prime''' and '''Elita One''' talk objectives.

"HAHAHA! I broke his mind! And now I will break your bodies!"
:—'''Shockwave''' celebrates over the Autobots

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Soundwave has been trying to repair Ravage ever since Optimus damaged him back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|issue #1]].
* The Combaticons were shown to be defending Shockwave's fortress in [[Transformers (2023) issue 7|issue #7]].
* Skywarp's willingness to help the Autobots is likely due to the combination of wanting revenge for what Soundwave and [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] did to him back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 4|issue #4]], as well as Arcee saving him from Carly’s attack in [[Transformers (2023) issue 8|issue #8]].
* Spike recalls Optimus's unfortunate encounter with another deer from [[Transformers (2023) issue 2|issue #2]].

===''Transformers'' references===
* Beachcomber's use of a surfboard is likely a reference to a similar scene in the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode “[[The Ultimate Doom, Part 3]]” - the multi-part epic this arc is largely based on - where the Autobots must surf to reach the [[sea funnel]].
* Just as in [[Transformers (2023) issue 9|issue #9]], Shockwave is shown as highly emotional, even laughing. He continues to be starkly out-of-character compared to everybody else, in a way that sure ''looks'' deliberate....

===Real-world references===
* Shockwave's battle cry is "[[X-Men|To me, my Decepticons!!!]]".

===Errors===
*Soundwave informs Shockwave that the portal to Cybertron has been repaired. Shockwave already knows this, as last issue, he himself told Soundwave the very same thing! (And no, nothing seems to have happened to it in between issues.)

===Other trivia===

===Covers===
{{comicstub|9/17 covers documented}}
* '''Cover A:''' Shockwave fires on Optimus, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' Shockwave attacks Elita, by Jorge Corona and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C (1:10 Copy Incentive):''' Connecting cover, by [[Karen S. Darboe]].
* '''Cover D (1:25 Copy Incentive):''' Elita fires a blast, by [[Ludo Lullabi]].
* '''Cover E (1:50 Copy Incentive):''' Shockwave stands over a fallen Optimus, by [[Wes Craig]].
* '''Carnivore Comics Cover:''' by [[Ryan G. Browne]].
* '''Big Time Collectables Cover:''' by [[Ivan Tao]].
* '''The 616 Comics Cover A:''' by [[Tiago da Silva]].
* '''The 616 Comics Cover B:''' by Tiago da Silva.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Carnivore Comics Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Big Time Collectibles Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 The 616 Comics Cover B.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[Scarlett (comic)|Scarlett]]'' [[Scarlett issue 4|#4]] and ''[[Destro (comic)|Destro]]'' [[Destro issue 4|#4]].
* ''Invincible: The Hero-Building Game''
* ''Impact Winter''
* Experience the Energon Universe in the trade paperbacks for ''Transformers'', ''[[Void Rivals]]'', ''[[Duke (comic)|Duke]]'', and ''[[Cobra Commander (comic)|Cobra Commander]]''
* Skybound Insiders

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 2: Transport to Oblivion''''' ([[November 27]], [[2024]]) ISBN 1534345272 / ISBN 978-1534345270 
** Collects issues #7–12.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V2.jpg|'''''Volume 2: Transport to Oblivion''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 11

2025-03-25T17:30:18Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #11
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 10
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 12
|image=Transformers 2023 11 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[August 14]], [[2024]]
|coverdate=August 2024
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Jorge Corona]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''The Autobots must rescue their captured comrades from Shockwave’s clutches as the ultimate doom rains down upon them.'''

==Synopsis==
Using a high-tech surfboard, [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] investigates the whirlpool created by [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]'s attempt to bring [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] into [[Earth]] orbit.

Meanwhile, on the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'', [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] speaks to an unconcious [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]], guilt-ridden for leaving him to be tortured by Shockwave. [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] chastises Arcee for leaving as well, causing Arcee to deck her in anger. Witnessing this exchange, [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] asks what happened to him, leading Arcee to reveal that this is what happens to bots captured by Shockwave, meaning that [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] and [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] are likely being tortured as they speak. The idea horrifies Carly. [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] confers with [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] about Magnus’s repairs, but Wheeljack is unable to fully repair Ultra Magnus without [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]], and doing so would use up their remaining [[Energon]]. Wheeljack suggests that they could keep him in his current state and revive more [[Autobot]]s instead, but Magnus awakens and pleads with Optimus that he wants to fight as part of this new resistance.

Aboard the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]'', [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] asks Shockwave to take [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] back to Cybertron to be repaired, but Shockwave insists that there are more important matters to be attended to. He then returns to Cybertron himself and orders the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s to ready their defenses against any potential attacks from the remaining Autobot rebels. When the Combaticons inquire about the status of [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] and [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]], Shockwave brushes aside their concerns as well.

The Autobots quickly deduce that the [[space bridge]] bringing Cybertron is connected between the ''Nemesis'' and [[Shockwave's Tower|Shockwave' fortress]], using that to siphon the energy collected from Earth into Energon stores in the fortress. If they can destroy the ''Nemesis'', they can cut that connection off, but it's likely Shockwave already has enough Energon stored up to crush the remaining Autobots on Cybertron. Carly insists that their first priority should be rescuing Cliffjumper, to which Optimus agrees. However, Elita balks at this. She chastises Prime for leaving her and the rest of the Autobots alone on Cybertron for centuries and letting Shockwave's forces slowly destroy them. She does not want to risk losing their home to the [[Decepticon]]s to save this new world. Optimus merely says that he is confident in their abilities and old friends. Arcee, enraged by what the Decepticons did to Magnus, prepares for battle while Carly—surprised at the turn her [[Iron Intercessor]] has taken—looks on. Elita One tells her that she is proud to see her fire returning.

The Autobots formulate a plan: using [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]'s teleportation abilities, now connected to [[Teletraan I]], they will teleport inside the ''Nemesis'' and use a series of explosives to destroy the Decepticon flagship, severing its space bridge connection. Carly insists on coming along, believing rescuing Cliffjumper to be her responsibility, but both Optimus and Arcee refuse, promising to bring him home for her.

[[File:TF2023 no.11 - Ultra Magnus and Wheeljack.jpg|thumb|200px|left|[[Derek Yaniger|Yaniger]] would be proud.]]

Beachcomber returns to where he left [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] and [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] and tells Spike of what he saw. Spike asks if they should do something, but Beachcomber solemnly states that there's nothing they can do. He leaves a canister of Energon for Astrotrain before taking Spike to find another quiet part of the world to wait for the inevitable end. As they walk through the woods, Spike sees a deer and recalls when Optimus first stepped foot on the planet. Spike tells Beachcomber that while he knows the fighting is wrong, that doesn't mean they can just run away.

Aboard the ''Nemesis'', Shockwave continues to torture Jazz and Cliffjumper, but is interrupted by the arrival of Optimus Prime and the other Autobots. As Optimus frees their comrades and Elita finishes planting the charges, Arcee threatens to execute Shockwave, but Prime stops her, fearing what might happen if she gives into her anger. Unfortunately, her hesitation gives Shockwave an opening to attack, taking Cliffjumper hostage and escaping. The Decepticon leader orders the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]]s to form [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]], but Optimus isn't worried: teleporting in behind them are Wheeljack and the now fully restored Ultra Magnus!

However, upon seeing Shockwave again, Magnus freezes. He can't do it. In a fit of panic, he drops his weapon and retreats, apologizing all the while. As their strongest warrior drives off, Shockwave gloats. He broke the mind of the mighty Ultra Magnus, and now he’ll break the rest of the Autobots' bodies!
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (1)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (2)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (3)
* [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] (4)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (6)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (7)
* ''[[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]]'' (15)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (18)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (19)

|c2=
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (8)
* [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] (9)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (10)
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] (11)
* [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]] (12)
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] (13)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (14)
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (17)
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (18)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (19)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (20)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (21)
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (22)
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (23)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (24)

|c3=
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (5)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (16)
}}

==Quotes==
"I know how you feel, Beachcomber. It feels... 'wrong' to fight. But I don't think I have to. I just know I can't run away."
:—'''Spike''' finds his resolve.

"Ratchet said I was too concerned with this world. But I brought this war to them. They need us now." 
"We have our own problems, Optimus." 
"That is true. But I am beginning to think we need them to survive, as well."
:—'''Optimus Prime''' and '''Elita One''' talk objectives.

"HAHAHA! I broke his mind! And now I will break your bodies!"
:—'''Shockwave''' celebrates over the Autobots

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Soundwave has been trying to repair Ravage ever since Optimus damaged him back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|issue #1]].
* The Combaticons were shown to be defending Shockwave's fortress in [[Transformers (2023) issue 7|issue #7]].
* Skywarp's willingness to help the Autobots is likely due to the combination of wanting revenge for what Soundwave and [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] did to him back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 4|issue #4]], as well as Arcee saving him from Carly’s attack in [[Transformers (2023) issue 8|issue #8]].
* Spike recalls Optimus's unfortunate encounter with another deer from [[Transformers (2023) issue 2|issue #2]].
*Once rebuilt, Ultra Magnus’s head antennas are now colored blue, as opposed to them being white (like his G1 Counterpart) when He is first shown in Arcee’s flashback in issue 7.

===''Transformers'' references===
* Beachcomber's use of a surfboard is likely a reference to a similar scene in the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode “[[The Ultimate Doom, Part 3]]” - the multi-part epic this arc is largely based on - where the Autobots must surf to reach the [[sea funnel]].
* Just as in [[Transformers (2023) issue 9|issue #9]], Shockwave is shown as highly emotional, even laughing. He continues to be starkly out-of-character compared to everybody else, in a way that sure ''looks'' deliberate....

===Real-world references===
* Shockwave's battle cry is "[[X-Men|To me, my Decepticons!!!]]".

===Errors===
*Soundwave informs Shockwave that the portal to Cybertron has been repaired. Shockwave already knows this, as last issue, he himself told Soundwave the very same thing! (And no, nothing seems to have happened to it in between issues.)

===Other trivia===

===Covers===
{{comicstub|9/17 covers documented}}
* '''Cover A:''' Shockwave fires on Optimus, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' Shockwave attacks Elita, by Jorge Corona and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C (1:10 Copy Incentive):''' Connecting cover, by [[Karen S. Darboe]].
* '''Cover D (1:25 Copy Incentive):''' Elita fires a blast, by [[Ludo Lullabi]].
* '''Cover E (1:50 Copy Incentive):''' Shockwave stands over a fallen Optimus, by [[Wes Craig]].
* '''Carnivore Comics Cover:''' by [[Ryan G. Browne]].
* '''Big Time Collectables Cover:''' by [[Ivan Tao]].
* '''The 616 Comics Cover A:''' by [[Tiago da Silva]].
* '''The 616 Comics Cover B:''' by Tiago da Silva.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Carnivore Comics Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Big Time Collectibles Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 The 616 Comics Cover B.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[Scarlett (comic)|Scarlett]]'' [[Scarlett issue 4|#4]] and ''[[Destro (comic)|Destro]]'' [[Destro issue 4|#4]].
* ''Invincible: The Hero-Building Game''
* ''Impact Winter''
* Experience the Energon Universe in the trade paperbacks for ''Transformers'', ''[[Void Rivals]]'', ''[[Duke (comic)|Duke]]'', and ''[[Cobra Commander (comic)|Cobra Commander]]''
* Skybound Insiders

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 2: Transport to Oblivion''''' ([[November 27]], [[2024]]) ISBN 1534345272 / ISBN 978-1534345270 
** Collects issues #7–12.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V2.jpg|'''''Volume 2: Transport to Oblivion''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 11

2025-03-25T17:29:49Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #11
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 10
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 12
|image=Transformers 2023 11 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[August 14]], [[2024]]
|coverdate=August 2024
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Jorge Corona]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''The Autobots must rescue their captured comrades from Shockwave’s clutches as the ultimate doom rains down upon them.'''

==Synopsis==
Using a high-tech surfboard, [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] investigates the whirlpool created by [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]'s attempt to bring [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] into [[Earth]] orbit.

Meanwhile, on the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'', [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] speaks to an unconcious [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]], guilt-ridden for leaving him to be tortured by Shockwave. [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] chastises Arcee for leaving as well, causing Arcee to deck her in anger. Witnessing this exchange, [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] asks what happened to him, leading Arcee to reveal that this is what happens to bots captured by Shockwave, meaning that [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] and [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] are likely being tortured as they speak. The idea horrifies Carly. [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] confers with [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] about Magnus’s repairs, but Wheeljack is unable to fully repair Ultra Magnus without [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]], and doing so would use up their remaining [[Energon]]. Wheeljack suggests that they could keep him in his current state and revive more [[Autobot]]s instead, but Magnus awakens and pleads with Optimus that he wants to fight as part of this new resistance.

Aboard the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]'', [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] asks Shockwave to take [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] back to Cybertron to be repaired, but Shockwave insists that there are more important matters to be attended to. He then returns to Cybertron himself and orders the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s to ready their defenses against any potential attacks from the remaining Autobot rebels. When the Combaticons inquire about the status of [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] and [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]], Shockwave brushes aside their concerns as well.

The Autobots quickly deduce that the [[space bridge]] bringing Cybertron is connected between the ''Nemesis'' and [[Shockwave's Tower|Shockwave' fortress]], using that to siphon the energy collected from Earth into Energon stores in the fortress. If they can destroy the ''Nemesis'', they can cut that connection off, but it's likely Shockwave already has enough Energon stored up to crush the remaining Autobots on Cybertron. Carly insists that their first priority should be rescuing Cliffjumper, to which Optimus agrees. However, Elita balks at this. She chastises Prime for leaving her and the rest of the Autobots alone on Cybertron for centuries and letting Shockwave's forces slowly destroy them. She does not want to risk losing their home to the [[Decepticon]]s to save this new world. Optimus merely says that he is confident in their abilities and old friends. Arcee, enraged by what the Decepticons did to Magnus, prepares for battle while Carly—surprised at the turn her [[Iron Intercessor]] has taken—looks on. Elita One tells her that she is proud to see her fire returning.

The Autobots formulate a plan: using [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]'s teleportation abilities, now connected to [[Teletraan I]], they will teleport inside the ''Nemesis'' and use a series of explosives to destroy the Decepticon flagship, severing its space bridge connection. Carly insists on coming along, believing rescuing Cliffjumper to be her responsibility, but both Optimus and Arcee refuse, promising to bring him home for her.

[[File:TF2023 no.11 - Ultra Magnus and Wheeljack.jpg|thumb|200px|left|[[Derek Yaniger|Yaniger]] would be proud.]]

Beachcomber returns to where he left [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] and [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] and tells Spike of what he saw. Spike asks if they should do something, but Beachcomber solemnly states that there's nothing they can do. He leaves a canister of Energon for Astrotrain before taking Spike to find another quiet part of the world to wait for the inevitable end. As they walk through the woods, Spike sees a deer and recalls when Optimus first stepped foot on the planet. Spike tells Beachcomber that while he knows the fighting is wrong, that doesn't mean they can just run away.

Aboard the ''Nemesis'', Shockwave continues to torture Jazz and Cliffjumper, but is interrupted by the arrival of Optimus Prime and the other Autobots. As Optimus frees their comrades and Elita finishes planting the charges, Arcee threatens to execute Shockwave, but Prime stops her, fearing what might happen if she gives into her anger. Unfortunately, her hesitation gives Shockwave an opening to attack, taking Cliffjumper hostage and escaping. The Decepticon leader orders the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]]s to form [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]], but Optimus isn't worried: teleporting in behind them are Wheeljack and the now fully restored Ultra Magnus!

However, upon seeing Shockwave again, Magnus freezes. He can't do it. In a fit of panic, he drops his weapon and retreats, apologizing all the while. As their strongest warrior drives off, Shockwave gloats. He broke the mind of the mighty Ultra Magnus, and now he’ll break the rest of the Autobots' bodies!
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (1)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (2)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (3)
* [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] (4)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (6)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (7)
* ''[[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]]'' (15)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (18)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (19)

|c2=
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (8)
* [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] (9)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (10)
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] (11)
* [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]] (12)
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] (13)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (14)
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (17)
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (18)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (19)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (20)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (21)
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (22)
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (23)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (24)

|c3=
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (5)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (16)
}}

==Quotes==
"I know how you feel, Beachcomber. It feels... 'wrong' to fight. But I don't think I have to. I just know I can't run away."
:—'''Spike''' finds his resolve.

"Ratchet said I was too concerned with this world. But I brought this war to them. They need us now." 
"We have our own problems, Optimus." 
"That is true. But I am beginning to think we need them to survive, as well."
:—'''Optimus Prime''' and '''Elita One''' talk objectives.

"HAHAHA! I broke his mind! And now I will break your bodies!"
:—'''Shockwave''' celebrates over the Autobots

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Soundwave has been trying to repair Ravage ever since Optimus damaged him back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|issue #1]].
* The Combaticons were shown to be defending Shockwave's fortress in [[Transformers (2023) issue 7|issue #7]].
* Skywarp's willingness to help the Autobots is likely due to the combination of wanting revenge for what Soundwave and [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] did to him back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 4|issue #4]], as well as Arcee saving him from Carly’s attack in [[Transformers (2023) issue 8|issue #8]].
* Spike recalls Optimus's unfortunate encounter with another deer from [[Transformers (2023) issue 2|issue #2]].
*Once rebuilt, Ultra Magnus’s Head antennas are now colored blue, as opposed to them being white (like his G1 Counterpart) when He is first shown in Arcee’s flashback in issue 7.

===''Transformers'' references===
* Beachcomber's use of a surfboard is likely a reference to a similar scene in the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode “[[The Ultimate Doom, Part 3]]” - the multi-part epic this arc is largely based on - where the Autobots must surf to reach the [[sea funnel]].
* Just as in [[Transformers (2023) issue 9|issue #9]], Shockwave is shown as highly emotional, even laughing. He continues to be starkly out-of-character compared to everybody else, in a way that sure ''looks'' deliberate....

===Real-world references===
* Shockwave's battle cry is "[[X-Men|To me, my Decepticons!!!]]".

===Errors===
*Soundwave informs Shockwave that the portal to Cybertron has been repaired. Shockwave already knows this, as last issue, he himself told Soundwave the very same thing! (And no, nothing seems to have happened to it in between issues.)

===Other trivia===

===Covers===
{{comicstub|9/17 covers documented}}
* '''Cover A:''' Shockwave fires on Optimus, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' Shockwave attacks Elita, by Jorge Corona and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C (1:10 Copy Incentive):''' Connecting cover, by [[Karen S. Darboe]].
* '''Cover D (1:25 Copy Incentive):''' Elita fires a blast, by [[Ludo Lullabi]].
* '''Cover E (1:50 Copy Incentive):''' Shockwave stands over a fallen Optimus, by [[Wes Craig]].
* '''Carnivore Comics Cover:''' by [[Ryan G. Browne]].
* '''Big Time Collectables Cover:''' by [[Ivan Tao]].
* '''The 616 Comics Cover A:''' by [[Tiago da Silva]].
* '''The 616 Comics Cover B:''' by Tiago da Silva.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Carnivore Comics Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 Big Time Collectibles Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 The 616 Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 11 The 616 Comics Cover B.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[Scarlett (comic)|Scarlett]]'' [[Scarlett issue 4|#4]] and ''[[Destro (comic)|Destro]]'' [[Destro issue 4|#4]].
* ''Invincible: The Hero-Building Game''
* ''Impact Winter''
* Experience the Energon Universe in the trade paperbacks for ''Transformers'', ''[[Void Rivals]]'', ''[[Duke (comic)|Duke]]'', and ''[[Cobra Commander (comic)|Cobra Commander]]''
* Skybound Insiders

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 2: Transport to Oblivion''''' ([[November 27]], [[2024]]) ISBN 1534345272 / ISBN 978-1534345270 
** Collects issues #7–12.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V2.jpg|'''''Volume 2: Transport to Oblivion''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 18

2025-03-25T15:15:01Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #18
|prev=Transformers (2023) issue 17
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 19
|image=Transformers 2023 18 Cover A.jpg
|caption=
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[March 12]], [[2025]]
|coverdate=March 2025
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=[[Jorge Corona]]
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Ben Abernathy]]
|publication design=[[Andres Juarez]]
|production=[[Ashby Florence]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''While the Autobots on Cybertron have gained a powerful new ally, their comrades on Earth face enemies old and new.'''

==Synopsis==
On [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], outside the [[Well of All Sparks|Well of Sparks]], [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]], [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]], and [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] are pinned down by a trio of attacking [[Decepticon]]s: the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]s [[Bitstream (G1)|Bitstream]] and [[Hotlink (G1)|Hotlink]] and the bestial [[Carnivac (G1)|Carnivac]]. Bluestreak tries to call [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]], but sadly can't get through to the [[Autobot]] commander. However, as Carnivac prepares to chow down on Bluestreak, he is saved by the timely intervention of a black van crashing into the Decepticon wolf. [[Shredhead]] transforms and uses their energy sword to quickly dispatch the three Decepticons. The Autobots are then joined by [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] and Elita, who believes their newest soldier has just turned the tide.

On [[Earth]], [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]], [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]], and [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] camp inside [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]' makeshift fort on the [[San Juan Islands]] while [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] confers with her [[Iron Intercessor]]. Like the other Autobots, Magnus is captivated by the beauty of Earth, but admits that he's unable to appreciate it, so clouded by the trauma of his imprisonment at the hands of [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]. Arcee tries to assure Magnus that they can still face the future, but the mighty warrior is too despondent. Carly sympathizes with Magnus, as she and Spike also had their lives destroyed by the Decepticons. She thinks that their pain is what brings them together, reassuring Magnus that he’s not alone. However, at that moment, Magnus sees [[G.I. Joe (team)|a group of soldiers]] moving towards the fort. In a panic, he fires on them. Arcee tries to get him to stop, but the group is quickly beset by attack helicopters, triggering flashbacks to Magnus' imprisonment and causing him to attack them. Beachcomber and Spike escape, but a tranquilizer dart knocks out Carly. Arcee grabs her [[iron apprentice]], but an explosion knocks them to the ground. As she recovers, she can only watch as both Carly and Ultra Magnus are carried away by the soldiers.

[[File:TF2023 no. 18 - Megatron Returns.jpg|thumb|Dad's home.|150px|left]]

Meanwhile, in [[Seattle]], the remaining Autobots do what they can to evacuate the humans from the chaos caused by the brawl between [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] and [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]. Unfortunately, they can only do so much as the two combiners tear through the city. [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] provides the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s air support aboard [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]], but is taken down by [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] ejecting [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]], sending Astrotrain crashing onto the top of a skyscraper. Bruticus goes to rescue his leader with Devastator in pursuit, each giant climbing the tower. As they near the top, Devastator grabs Bruticus in a chokehold, sending them both crashing back to Earth and leveling a city block, much to [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]'s horror.

Soundwave corners Starscream on the roof, berating him for how low his actions have brought him and readying to execute him. Starscream then gets a second wind and retaliates, ripping open Soundwave's chest compartment and pulling out [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]]’s still inactive body, mocking Soundwave’s concern for his tapes. However, their fight is interrupted by the return of [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], who orders them to stop with a single word. He picks up Ravage and, using his own spark, reactivates him as a reward for Soundwave’s loyalty. As Optimus looks up in horror to see his old nemesis alive, he gives his fellow Autobots a single order: retreat.

{{--}}

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] (1)
* [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]] (2)
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] (3)
* [[Shredhead]] (7)
* [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]] (8)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (9)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (10)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (11)
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (14)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (16)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (17)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (20)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (21)

|c2=
* [[Bitstream (G1)|Bitstream]] (4)
* [[Carnivac (G1)|Carnivac]] (5)
* [[Hotlink (G1)|Hotlink]] (6)
* [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] (18)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (19)
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (22)
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (23)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (24)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (25)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (26)
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (27)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (28)

||c3=
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (12)
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (13)
* [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]] soldiers (15)
}}

==Quotes==
"You guys ready to shred?"
:—'''Shredhead''' to the Decepticons

"But all I see now is the unknown. The vastness. The dark. Shockwave ruined it all." 
"But… he’s gone now. He can’t hurt us anymore. Prime made sure of it." 
"It’s too late, Arcee. Shockwave taught me the depths of what one Cybertronian can do to another. How can I believe in anything anymore?"
:—'''Ultra Magnus''' and '''Arcee'''

"NO, NO, '''NO!''' WHY CAN'T '''ANYTHING''' GO MY WAY?!" 
"Because you are stupid Starscream. Guided only by fear. Hate. Selfishness. You cannot even move yourself without the Earthlings' technology. What a pathetic end for you."
:—'''Soundwave''' to '''Starscream'''

"What a good soldier you are, [[Ravage (G1)|small thing]]. And what a faithful servant [[Soundwave (G1)|your father]] is."
:—'''Megatron'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Rumble is still missing his right piledriver arm after losing it to [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 5|issue #5]].
* We saw firsthand what became of Magnus while he was captured by Shockwave back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 7|issue #7]], and the debilitating effects it had on him when he fled from battle in [[Transformers (2023) issue 11|issue #11]].
* Arcee tells Magnus that Shockwave can no longer hurt him, having been killed by Optimus Prime in [[Transformers (2023) issue 12|issue #12]].
* The soldiers that attack Magnus and company are shown to be wearing the star emblem of G.I. Joe, making it the first explicit reference to the highly trained special mission force in this series. While these soldiers are mere nameless troops, not the more colorfully costumed individuals we’re used to seeing from the main team appearing in the [[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|''G.I. Joe'' series]], the [[G.I. Joe Energon Universe Special story|''G.I. Joe'' segment]] of the ''[[Energon Universe 2024 Special]]'' did hint that the organization was larger than initially seemed.
* Soundwave has been trying to repair Ravage ever since Optimus shot him in [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|the first issue]].
* Starscream is shocked to see Megatron alive, believing he had killed the Decepticon leader in the [[Transformers Energon Universe Special story|''Transformers'' segment]] of the ''Energon Universe 2024 Special''. However, readers of ''[[Cobra Commander (comic)|Cobra Commander]]'' know that Megatron was found by the secret society of [[Cobra-La]] before escaping and being found by Laserbeak in [[Transformers (2023) issue 16|issue #16]].
* Astrotrain has been nursing his own grudge against Megatron, for reasons not yet fully revealed, though issue #16 hinted Megatron was responsible for killing Astrotrain’s love.
*Unfortunately Shredhead’s alt mode seems to have lost all of its awesome artwork when being remade.

===''Transformers'' references===
* Bitstream and Hotlink were both originally generic Seekers that appeared as the "welcoming committee" in the first episode of the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]], "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]". They were given names and personalities when released as exclusive toys for [[BotCon 2013]].
* Elita’s comment that they’ve “turned the tide” echoes Kup’s line from ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.

===Errors===
* On page 1, panel 6, Carnivac interrupts Hotlink, but based on their colors, it's Bitstream who was talking (that, or Hotlink was just consistently miscolored as Bitstream and vice versa).
* On page 12, panel 5, Soundwave's speech bubble lacks its unique blue and yellow colors, instead rendered in standard black and white.

===Other notes===
* The cover art for this issue was originally created for Skybound's pitch to Hasbro.<ref>https://www.felixcomicart.com/gallerypiece.asp?piece=34417</ref>

===Covers===
* '''Cover A:''' Starscream and Bruticus, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' Megatron and Laserbeak, by Jorge Corona and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' Connecting cover by [[Karl Kerschl]].
* '''Cover D:''' Two teenage Transformers fans watch Bruticus and Devastator battle, by [[Filya Bratukhin]] & [[Rex Lokus]].
* '''Cover E:''' Optimus and Arcee, by [[Oliver Kiyoshi Ono]].
* '''Cover F:''' Shredhead, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Cover F.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Unknown Comics Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Unknown Comics Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 Unknown Comics Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 18 The 616 Comics Cover.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''[[G.I. Joe (2024 comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' [[G.I. Joe (2024) issue 5|#5]], ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 18|#18]], and ''Transformers'' #17.
* Energon Universe hardcovers
* ''Invincible Universe: Battle Beast''

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 3: Combiner Chaos''''' ([[May 28]], [[2025]]) ISBN 153432559X / ISBN 978-1534325593 
** Collects issues #13–18 and the [[Transformers Energon Universe Special story|''Transformers'' story]] from ''[[Energon Universe 2024 Special]]''.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V3.jpg|'''''Volume 3: Combiner Chaos''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer
</gallery>

==External links==

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

The Core

2025-03-23T01:39:26Z

Diesel Prime: /* Trivia */

{{disambig3|Core}}
{{episode
|series=G1toon
|ep=28
|series2=SRLFtoon
|ep2=49
|prev2=Cosmic Rust (episode)
|next2=Blaster Blues
|series3=''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (cartoon)|Transformers: Generation 2]]''
|ep3=7
|prev3=The Autobot Run
|next3=Dinobot Island, Part 1
|image=TheCore Devastator zapped.jpg
|caption=
|title="The Core"
|season=2
|season ep=12
|production code=#700-27
|airdate=[[October 29]], 1985
|written by=[[Dennis Marks]]
|animation studio=[[AKOM]]
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
|video=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEXja5bHm30
|videosite=YouTube
}}
'''Megatron tries to drill his way to the center to the Earth, while the Autobots take control of Devastator with mind-controlling Dominator Disks.'''

==Synopsis==
[[File:Coredevastatorattacks.jpg|left|thumb|Bowling for Autobots]]
At an underground cavern near a waterfall, the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] are digging with a massive drill. However, the rock they're drilling through breaks, and only some quick work on [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]]'s part plugs it up. [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] orders Mixmaster to look over [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]]'s sensory equipment, while [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] does his daily whine-about-Megatron's-nefarious-plan bit. Megatron counters that if they manage to tap into the [[Earth's core|Earth's molten core]], it will give the [[Decepticon]]s geothermal energy, a limitless power source. Starscream counters that if they breach the core, the Earth runs the risk of exploding. However, Megatron doesn't care: he's placed a [[space bridge]] near the drilling site, which will take the Decepticons to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] if the Earth's stability should be threatened.

[[File:Coreautobotsinnet.jpg|thumb|This is the worst tent ever!]]
Meanwhile, [[Jazz (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Jazz]], [[Prowl (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Prowl]], [[Gears (G1)|Gears]], [[Mirage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Mirage]], and [[Sunstreaker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sunstreaker]] are driving around in that general area, when Sunstreaker realizes that there should be a river where they're driving through. The Autobots head to investigate, and see Mixmaster and Scavenger. The Autobots [[Transformation|transform]] to attack, only to see that the Constructicons have disappeared, and to fail to notice [[Laserbeak (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Laserbeak]] above them. Informed by [[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]], Megatron orders the Constructicons to destroy the Autobots and form [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]. The Decepticon [[combiner]] knocks the Autobots off the cliff, but Mirage goes invisible on them. He remains undetected as Devastator attacks the others, and finds the drill. As Mirage rejoins the group, Jazz does a [[sound and light show]] which distracts Devastator while Mirage and Sunstreaker lasso his legs with a rope, allowing the Autobots to escape.

[[File:Coredevastator&prime.jpg|left|thumb|Devastator has no idea how to start transforming 20th Anniversary Prime.]]
At the [[Ark (G1)|Autobot base]], the Autobots use [[Teletraan I]] to calculate what will happen if the drill hits the Earth's core. The result will be total annihilation, but the Autobots have little hope of defeating the Decepticons with Devastator. [[Wheeljack (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Wheeljack]] and [[Chip Chase]] present [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] with their new [[dominator disk]]s, which will be placed on the individual Constructicons and take control of them when they form Devastator. Convinced, Optimus Prime orders a commando team to plant the disks on the Constructicons. Heading for the drilling site, [[Ironhide (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ironhide]] freezes the falls, causing the drill to heat up. [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] orders the Constructicons to the surface, during which the Autobots plant a disk on each Constructicon. As the commandos are pulled out, Starscream has them dead to rights, but Megatron orders him to let them go, saying that he knows of their plan to control Devastator. As Megatron positions the Decepticons, he orders the Decepticons to attack. The Decepticons fire on the still moving Autobots, who break formation, as the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]] transform to [[bring the rain]] on the Autobots. Megatron orders the Constructicons to form Devastator, who grabs Prime. Wheeljack activates the disks and Optimus orders Devastator to release him and attack the Decepticons. Devastator follows the Autobot leader's orders. Megatron orders the Decepticons to retreat to the cave and Devastator seals them in. Optimus orders the Autobots to break off, as they can now finish the Decepticons at their leisure.

[[File:Corediagramscene.jpg|thumb|The Earth consists of a crust, the mantle, the outer core, the inner core, the inner inner core, the inner inner inner core, the...]]
Within the caverns, Starscream whines about being trapped, not having enough water to keep drilling, and so on. However, Megatron reveals that this was all part of his plan: he has a device that will override the dominator disks and stored enough water to continue drilling for some time. He just didn't tell Starscream because he's a terrible actor. At the Autobot base, the Constructicons are helping with repairs, when an earthquake hits. Realizing that the Decepticons are still drilling, the Autobots head to put them out of commission. However, Megatron is aware of their coming, watching them through the Constructicons' eyes. The Autobots and Devastator head for the cave, and Devastator is set to destroy it, at which point Megatron uses his control switch to deactivate the disks. Devastator begins attacking the Autobots, so Wheeljack tries to boost power to the disks. Unfortunately, this fries Devastator's [[Circuit (circuit)|logic circuits]] and sends him into a killing frenzy, attacking both Autobot and Decepticon alike.

[[File:Coremegs&wheeljack.jpg|left|thumb|Take off your clothes and come on in!]]
Finally, the drill hits the core and the cave—and the earth itself—begin to come apart. Unfortunately, Devastator's rampage has damaged the drill's controls. Megatron orders the Decepticons to the space bridge, but Devastator damages it too. Optimus convinces Megatron to give his control switch to Wheeljack, who uses it to deactivate the disks and bring Devastator back to normal. Devastator then heads to destroy the drill, while the Decepticons flee for their [[Spark|lives]]. Devastator succeeds, but is surprised by Megatron's absence. Chip tells Devastator that he ran, but Devastator believes that "Noble Megatron" merely left to plan their next attack and leaves (he really is as dumb as a post). Chip is somewhat saddened, as he was hoping that Devastator would join the Autobots. Optimus tells him that the future is built on dreams and not to let go of his.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Gears (G1)|Gears]] (8)
*[[Jazz (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Jazz]] (9)
*[[Sunstreaker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sunstreaker]] (10)
*[[Prowl (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Prowl]] (11)
*[[Mirage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Mirage]] (12)
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] (17)
*[[Wheeljack (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Wheeljack]] (19)
*[[Ironhide (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ironhide]] (20)
*[[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] (24)
*[[Sideswipe (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sideswipe]] (25)
*[[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]] (26)
|c2=
*[[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (1)
*[[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (2)
*[[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (3)
*[[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (4)
*[[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (5)
*[[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (6)
*[[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] (7)
*[[Laserbeak (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Laserbeak]] (13)
*[[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] (14)
*[[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (15)
*[[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (16)
*[[Thundercracker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Thundercracker]] (21)
*[[Skywarp (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Skywarp]] (22)
*[[Ravage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ravage]] (23)
|c3=
*[[Chip Chase]] (18)
}}

==Quotes==
"Autobots, move out!"
:—'''Sunstreaker''', thinking he outranks Jazz and Prowl.

"It's like shooting [[dynametal duck]]s in a beryllium barrel."
:—'''Starscream''' wonders if they store [[beryllium baloney]] in beryllium barrels.

"Traitor!"
:—'''Starscream''' to Megatron. No, you read that right.

"DEVASTATOR! DEVASTATOR! HEEEEELP!!!!"
:—'''Starscream''' running and waving his arms at Devastator like an idiot.

"I do this only for the benefit of my Decepticons. It grieves me that you may also profit."
:—'''Megatron''', agreeing to ally with the Autobots and lying through his teeth (he's doing it to save his own chassis).

"What's the matter, Chip?" 
"I guess I was hoping Devastator might join the Autobots for good, but that's probably just a dumb old dream." 
"Hang on to your dreams, Chip. The future is built on dreams. Hang on."
:—'''Optimus Prime''' gives '''Chip Chase''' valuable words to live by.

==Notes==
===Production information===
* First draft script: 21st December 1984
* Dialogue recording: 28th January 1985

===Continuity notes===
[[File:TheCore HookfixesJazz.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
[[File:Sound and light show.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
*Devastator wants to squash the Autobots like "[[mechano-ants]]".
*Megatron takes a jab at Starscream's acting abilities, which we witnessed just [[A Prime Problem|one episode ago]]. He's no [[Shia LaBeouf|Beef]], but hey, he's [[Megatron's Master Plan, Part 2|just starting]] [[Starscream's Ghost|his career]] at this point.
*Megatron specifically says Starscream's acting wouldn't fool a "[[Saturn]]ian simpleton". As it would turn out in "[[The God Gambit]]", the beings that on live on Saturn's moon [[Titan (moon)|Titan]] ''were'' kinda dumb.
*Hook can "perform flawlessly to within one five hundred thousandth of a [[Units of length|Cybertronic mini-inch]]".
*Gadgets and powers:
**Everyone's arms are completely hollow in this episode. One character after the next retracts their hands into their wrists:
***Starscream reveals an improbably large drill in place of his retracted hand.
***Mirage has a tow cable in his wrist.
***Ironhide retracts his hands to fire an improbably huge torrent of blue liquid that freezes the waterfall.
***Sunstreaker, Jazz, and Wheeljack all retract their hands and replace them with wrist-rockets. Wheeljack is ''supposed'' to be able to do this according to his tech spec; the ability appeared very briefly in "[[The Autobot Run]]", and he also flew ''without'' retracting his hands in "[[A Plague of Insecticons]]" and "[[S.O.S. Dinobots]]".)
***Jazz also has a grappling hook/tow line. Of all these gimmicks, this is the only one that's actually appeared before, way back in "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 2]]" and [[More than Meets the Eye, Part 3|Part 3]].
**Jazz also uses his standard sound & light show. It's... not as impressive [[The Immobilizer|as it could be]].
**Hook uses his crane mode hook as a welding tip.
**Optimus Prime's trailer has a crane and a pyramid-shaped cage to lift the five Autobots.
**Starscream has a hand-held rifle which he attempts to use on the retreating Autobots after they place Dominator Disks on Devastator.
**Bluestreak's missiles break apart into shards after launch.
*For the first and only time in the series, Chip appears but Spike doesn't.
*The Autobots would finally have a combiner team to call their own in "[[The Key to Vector Sigma, Part 2]]".

===Real-world references===
*''[[Star Wars (franchise)|Star Wars]]'' sound effects:
**As often happens, Laserbeak gets the [[TIE Fighter]] engine sound just after he flies over the Autobots.

===Animation and technical errors===
This being one of the Season 2 AKOM episodes, many characters have unusual color schemes which persist through the entire episode. This includes:
[[File:TheCore Chip in Wheeljack.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
[[File:TheCore ConstructiconsMegatronPoint.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|Find the artists responsible for this color change, and DESTROY THEM!]]
*Megatron's gun barrel is dark gray.
*Gears' truck mode is red with blue fenders instead of blue with a red camper top. His white robot bits are colored light gray.
*Prowl is a light gray instead of white.
*Optimus Prime's backpack is white instead of red.
*Chip has a blue jacket instead of brown. This is ''good'', though. It means that, unlike a lot of cartoon humans, he actually changes clothes.
*The circle on Bumblebee's back is dark gray instead of yellow.

Errors not attributable to model sheets include:
*It seems unlikely that the metal ring surrounding the drill would fracture in exactly the same way as the rock surrounding it.
*Hook's first transformation is bizarre. His crane mode cab just kind of disappears into his stomach... only to reappear as his foot a second later.
*Scavenger's voice gives the "emergency!" lines that follow, but Scrapper is shown. It's not clear from the animation who's actually speaking, though.
*[[Michael Bell]]'s performance of Scrapper is noticeably higher-pitched and more manic than usual in this episode. He's cranked Scrapper's usual vocal "scratchiness" up a bit too, at times adding a protracted rasp between sentences.
*When the Constructicons are all shown zapping the fissure shut, all the other cracks are gone.
*Subsequent shots of the drill show no trace of the Constructicons' ad hoc ground repairs. Did they pave them over??
*Missing Seeker insignia:
**When he's first seen sitting at the console, Starscream is missing the Decepticon emblems on his wings.
**Starscream has only one wing emblem as he watches Megatron walk through the holographic rock wall.
**The Seekers are all missing their wing emblems as the Decepticons launch their counterattack on the approaching Autobots in the canyon.
**Starscream's missing his wing emblems yet again as he turns and says "You thought of everything".
**Starscream's got only one emblem as he runs crying to Devastator for help. Seriously, how hard is it to keep track of two emblems?
*It's not indisputably an error, but Starscream's hand makes none of the typical whirring/sliding noises as he retracts it and replaces it with the drill (which, holy cow, where does he ''keep'' that thing?)
*The animation of the Autobots driving up the slope out of the riverbed is crude and mistimed—Mirage drives all the way into the slope before he tilts to start climbing it. The other Autobots all tilt up as a group, even though they're in a line.
*Laserbeak's missing his transformation sound as he returns to Soundwave's chest compartment after sighting the Autobots.
*As Laserbeak plays back the Autobots' words, a second voice seems to be echoing Jazz's "Constructicons!"
*As the Constructicons all transform to [[alternate mode|vehicle mode]], both Hook and Mixmaster suffer from their feet failing to become the corresponding part of their vehicle modes. All of the Constructicons have completely changed positions from where they were standing in the preceding shot.
*The boulder that Devastator uses against the Autobots is never seen to hit bottom.
*As usual, Devastator's combination sequence is screwed up. In addition to lacking any transformation noise, Long Haul only forms about half of his actual contribution, with Hook getting the rest. At least they got the other four guys correct!
*Three of the Constructicons are shown monitoring the drill, while at the same time Devastator is outside fighting the rest of the Autobots. ([[:File:Megatronffod.jpg|More than six]] [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]]? [[Personal canon|Madness!]]) In the same scene, Starscream's missing one of his wing emblems yet again.
*Both Mirage and Sunstreaker drive ''through'' the tow line as they wrap it around Devastator's feet. As Devastator falls from their snare, he has two eyes instead of his usual visor.
*Coloring errors:
**Wheeljack has some strange white areas on his head when he's first seen inside Autobot Headquarters.
**Wheeljack's roof is orange instead of white as Chip leans out his window.
**Skywarp and Starscream both have yellow nosecones as they transform back into [[robot mode]] en route to the space bridge.
**Once the Autobots subjugate Devastator, he's seen swatting Skywarp, but the next shot is of Thundercracker spinning out of control. Then Thundercracker immediately flies back in ''again'' and is swatted off, screaming in Starscream's voice. The shot following that has Skywarp standing with the other Decepticons.
**Megatron has a red Decepticon symbol when he orders the Constructicons to stop the drill.
*The center line on Scrapper's face mask disappears as he orders the Constructicons to the surface.
*The Constructicons' elevator isn't animated, making them appear to just levitate into the air in vehicle mode. A whirring effects noise, and a lack of glow effects, makes it seem that this was ''not'' supposed to be the levitation beam used earlier by Starscream and Megatron. A second later, however, they ''do'' drive off the levitation beam, complete with glow effect.
*There is ''no way'' Ironhide has room for that much of the water-freezing liquid inside him.
*There's an existing Dominator Disk on Scrapper upon which Prowl sticks another one.
*Appearing/disappearing Autobots:
**Ironhide is shown retreating into the cage at the bottom of the cliff, even though he was never shown to have left the top of the cliff. He seems to have taken Sunstreaker's place. As the cage begins to rise, Sunstreaker reappears (with a strangely miscolored or off-model head), but Jazz is missing.
**The roster of Autobots on the return mission to the cave fluctuates all over the place. Prowl, Jazz, Ironhide and Sideswipe are shown leaving Autobot HQ (and Devastator apparently just sits there while the Autobots move out!) When they arrive at the cave, Hound and Wheeljack have replaced Prowl and Ironhide. After Chip is trapped in the cave, Ratchet shows up among Devastator's victims. After the commercial break, Ironhide is back with the group. As the earthquakes begin, Sunstreaker shows up out of nowhere to rescue Chip.
*Five Autobots fit inside Prime's pyramid cage, which then fits inside his trailer. Huge trailer, or tiny Autobots?
*As he ejects Ravage, the inside of Soundwave's chest compartment is bright yellow.
*Devastator's second combination sequence contains the same visual errors as the first one; plus, Hook's mass includes Bonecrusher's scoop.
*As Devastator blasts the Decepticons' cave shut, the frozen falls spontaneously unfreeze for no apparent reason.
*Bumblebee is with the cheering Autobots as Devastator flies out of the canyon, despite not being seen anywhere else in the episode.
*Again, the metal in Autobot Headquarters splits as though it were rock.
*After Hook repairs Jazz, he drives over to Devastator and transforms into ''nothing but his head''.
*When Devastator blasts the cave entrance open again, the falls are once again frozen!
*When the combined doohickeys zap Devastator back under control causing the Constructicons to disengage, the left arm transforms into Scrapper, while the right leg transforms into Bonecrusher.
*Third Devastator sequence: worst one yet! Scrapper's not really visible at all. ''Scavenger'' and Mixmaster form not only the legs but also half of Long Haul's bits (the same incomplete half that Long Haul himself formed the first time around!) Long Haul then ''splits in two'' to become the rest of Devastator's torso, including everything formed by Hook, ''and'' Bonecrusher and Scavenger's vehicle treads. Bonecrusher and ''Hook'' then form the arms. When he's finished forming, Devastator's torso plate is green instead of purple.
*Wheeljack's ears don't flash as he and Prime snicker at Chip's "Mr. Nobility" line.
*Though maintaining a consistent scale has [[Scale|never been a particularly important issue]] in Transformers fiction, this episode is a particularly notable offender, with Devastator's relative size fluctuating wildly: in some scenes Megatron appears to be almost half his height, whilst at other times the Autobots barely come up to the top of his ''foot''. In one scene, vehicle mode Bonecrusher seems to be almost as high as robot mode Megatron. Chip's scaling is also wildly variable: when Sunstreaker rescues him from the cave, he appears knee-high to the Autobots, but in the very next scene he has suddenly become as large as Wheeljack.

===Continuity errors===
*Megatron's assertion that the [[Earth's core]] is the richest source of energy in [[Milky Way|the galaxy]] is not even remotely true, even within the bizarre realm of the cartoon's physics. Heck, just within our own little [[Solar System]], the [[Sun]] is immeasurably more potent.
*Why the heck is Sunstreaker giving orders to a group that includes Prowl and Jazz?
*What kind of tree branch (growing out of a cliff, no less) is strong enough to support a falling Transformer?
*Jazz and Sunstreaker both use wrist-rockets to lower themselves into the canyon. According to the tech specs, that's really supposed to be Wheeljack's schtick.
*How does freezing the waterfall stop the whole river? Wouldn't it make more sense to break the dam that's diverting the river upstream?
*How did the Constructicons not notice the Autobots as they were placing the Dominator Disks on them?
*How ''did'' Megatron figure out the Autobots' strategy?
*Is Devastator ''really'' the only one who can stop the drill? Can't anybody just shoot the thing at its source?
*Why do the Constructicons all feel the need to simultaneously transform to robot mode (then have a little out-of-character heroic chat) when ordered to transform to Devastator? This is one of the episodes where they are assumed to need to be in vehicle mode—which they are already in—to combine.
*The whole countdown to the Earth's core, down to the ''second'', is patently ridiculous. The boundary of the Earth's core is not nearly so neatly defined. And penetrating it with such a comparatively tiny drill would be unlikely to shatter the planet.
*While counting down the time before the drill hits the Earth's core, Prime says 10 seconds, then Megatron says 1 second immediately thereafter. Somehow, 9 seconds disappear without any editing or time lapse. A lot more than 1 second elapses before Devastator destroys the drill.
*How did Devastator get all the way from near the earth's surface to near its core so quickly? How did he slow himself at the end to avoid crashing? And how did he withstand the heat down there, when his component parts [[Heavy Metal War|are not even very keen on ordinary lava]]?
**While we're at it, if everyone was so concerned that the drill was going to destroy Earth, then ''why'' would Devastator go ''underneath'' the drill to stop it? If they were cutting it so close, wasn't anybody in the ''least'' bit concerned that Devastator might break into the core on accident?
**Also, Devastator's strategy for stopping the drill shouldn't have worked. It should have impaled him. (Them? It? Ah, whatever.)
*Where did the fleeing Decepticons think they were ''going'', anyway?

===Trivia===
[[File:TheCore Jazz dominator disc.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|Look close. He's totally got the same black-eyes-beneath-the-visor thing that he had in "[[DIS-Integrated Circuits!]]"]]
*The Earth's core is believed to be around 3959 miles below the surface. So like, is the Decepticon's drill four thousand miles long? That means that before they started drilling, if the tip was touching the Earth's surface, the top would be ''in outer space''. How did no one ''notice'' that?
*After all the fuss the others go through while getting into the canyon (wrist rockets, grappling hook slides), Prowl just ''jumps'' down.
*When Megatron orders a retreat, cat mode Ravage flies off into the air alongside his comrades.
*Megatron stops Starscream from sniping the Autobots as Optimus Prime reels them up the cliff, arguing that killing six Autobots would be pointless since he plans on having Devastator destroy all the Autobots at the right moment. When that moment comes, there are still only (give or take) six Autobots to be had. Should have gone with your gut, Starscream.
*A deleted sequence near the end featuring the Constructicons is present in the [[dialogue script]]. It's a little hard to figure out what they would've been doing, but Mixmaster takes the "cackling witch" part of his Bio literally with the dropped line "Boil, boil, toil and trouble...acid eat and rocks go bubble!" - an intentional mangling of the witches' chant from ''Macbeth''.
*This episode is one of a trio, including "[[City of Steel (episode)|City of Steel]]" and "[[The Autobot Run]]", that was animated by the Korean studio [[AKOM]]. They are distinguished by simplistic art, prominent use of the Constructicons, surprisingly high frame rates, some Hanna-Barbara-style animation shortcuts, and various character model oddities, such as Optimus Prime's white backpack (which would show up again in "[[The Rebirth, Part 1|The Rebirth]]") and Chip Chase's blue jacket... not to mention a ''crapload'' of animation errors. Sheesh, AKOM.
*It does seem a little out of character for the Autobots to resort to mind control, especially with their leader’s whole thing being, “Freedom is the right of all sentient beings”. However it is established that the Constructicons are already under mind control, from Megatron using the Robosmasher to reprogram them from good to evil. So the Autobots are technically Mind-controlling mind-controlled bots to essentially act more like their old selves (Is this a case where two wrongs do in fact make a right?). Or possible, in universe, this is them trying to test possible permanent fixes for the Robosmasher’s reprogramming. Too bad Omega couldn’t enjoy some time with his old friends.
*Optimus Prime's last lines in this episode - "The future is built on dreams" - is notable as [[Peter Cullen]]'s words of encouragement to a young fan of Optimus Prime in real life, dying of a terminal illness. To this day, when interviewed about this line, Cullen will invariably be moved to tears by its memory, such was his love for the child. A true man amongst men, if there ever was one.<ref>[https://www.ign.com/articles/2011/09/30/transformers-peter-cullen-life-as-optimus-prime IGN interview with Peter Cullen]</ref>

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Le forage'''" ("The Drilling")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
::*This episode is one of those that has never been released on DVD in French.
::*The Constructicon curse continues, as Mixmaster's first lines in vehicle mode are missing from the dub.
::*Sunstreaker's line at the river "Okay Autobots, move out!" is also missing.
::*[[Jacques Ferrière]] vanished again. He will be back next episode.

'''German'''
:*''Title (Generation 2 dub):'' "'''Erde in Gefahr'''" ("Earth in Danger")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[June 11]], [[1994]]

'''Italian'''
:*''Title (dub 1):'' "'''Al centro della Terra'''" ("To the Center of Earth")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

:*''Title (dub 2):'' "'''Il nucleo'''" ("The Core")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Devastor o Taose!'''" (デバスターを倒せ!, "Defeat Devastor!")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[June 20]], [[1986]]

'''Mandarin'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Dìqiú Héxīn '''" (地球核心, "The Core of the Earth")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Brazilian Portuguese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''O Núcleo'''" ("The Core")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Russian'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Yadro'''" (Ядро, "The Core" )
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

=== Toys inspired by this episode ===
* '''''[[The Transformers: Masterpiece|Masterpiece]]'' MP-52 [[Starscream (G1)/toys#MP52|Starscream Ver. 2.0]] (TakaraTomy, [[2021]])'''
:One of the accessories included with this version of Starscream is the drill arm he uses in this episode.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;{{w|LaserDisc}}
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] [[1995]] — ''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' — Megatron Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] [[1999]] — ''The Transformers'' — Decepticon Edition ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] [[2001]] — ''The Transformers'' — DVD Box 2 (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] [[2002]] — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1 ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2002 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1: Vol. 2 (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] [[2003]] — ''Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] [[2004]] — ''Transformers'' — Collection 2: Series 2.1 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] [[2006]] — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] [[2007]] — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of Italy.png|20px|Italy]] [[2008]] — ''Transformers'' — Volume 03: Stagione Due Parte Prima ([[Medianetwork Communication]]) — English and Italian audio. 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] [[2009]] — ''Transformers'' — Season Two: Part One (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Season Two, Volume One: 25th Anniversary Edition ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] [[2011]] — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Original Series (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] [[2014]] — ''The Transformers'' — Season Two, Volume One: 30th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2014 — ''Transformers'' — The Classic Animated Series (Metrodome)

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lE-h4XZtVwu1Fx1n2IuRcK7AbkOrWusF/view?usp=drive_link Partial episode script]
*[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1p5SFRknSi5bq1RjbkjCcXIlut9TCyh56/view?usp=drive_link Episode dialogue script]
*[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Khiq3GAxN5-ZqjJUJIYt04VrU2GBN3uU/view?usp=drive_link Model sheets and background layouts]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Core}}
[[Category:The Transformers episodes]]
[[Category:Generation 2 episodes]]

The Core

2025-03-23T01:38:57Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{disambig3|Core}}
{{episode
|series=G1toon
|ep=28
|series2=SRLFtoon
|ep2=49
|prev2=Cosmic Rust (episode)
|next2=Blaster Blues
|series3=''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (cartoon)|Transformers: Generation 2]]''
|ep3=7
|prev3=The Autobot Run
|next3=Dinobot Island, Part 1
|image=TheCore Devastator zapped.jpg
|caption=
|title="The Core"
|season=2
|season ep=12
|production code=#700-27
|airdate=[[October 29]], 1985
|written by=[[Dennis Marks]]
|animation studio=[[AKOM]]
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
|video=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEXja5bHm30
|videosite=YouTube
}}
'''Megatron tries to drill his way to the center to the Earth, while the Autobots take control of Devastator with mind-controlling Dominator Disks.'''

==Synopsis==
[[File:Coredevastatorattacks.jpg|left|thumb|Bowling for Autobots]]
At an underground cavern near a waterfall, the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] are digging with a massive drill. However, the rock they're drilling through breaks, and only some quick work on [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]]'s part plugs it up. [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] orders Mixmaster to look over [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]]'s sensory equipment, while [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] does his daily whine-about-Megatron's-nefarious-plan bit. Megatron counters that if they manage to tap into the [[Earth's core|Earth's molten core]], it will give the [[Decepticon]]s geothermal energy, a limitless power source. Starscream counters that if they breach the core, the Earth runs the risk of exploding. However, Megatron doesn't care: he's placed a [[space bridge]] near the drilling site, which will take the Decepticons to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] if the Earth's stability should be threatened.

[[File:Coreautobotsinnet.jpg|thumb|This is the worst tent ever!]]
Meanwhile, [[Jazz (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Jazz]], [[Prowl (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Prowl]], [[Gears (G1)|Gears]], [[Mirage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Mirage]], and [[Sunstreaker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sunstreaker]] are driving around in that general area, when Sunstreaker realizes that there should be a river where they're driving through. The Autobots head to investigate, and see Mixmaster and Scavenger. The Autobots [[Transformation|transform]] to attack, only to see that the Constructicons have disappeared, and to fail to notice [[Laserbeak (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Laserbeak]] above them. Informed by [[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]], Megatron orders the Constructicons to destroy the Autobots and form [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]. The Decepticon [[combiner]] knocks the Autobots off the cliff, but Mirage goes invisible on them. He remains undetected as Devastator attacks the others, and finds the drill. As Mirage rejoins the group, Jazz does a [[sound and light show]] which distracts Devastator while Mirage and Sunstreaker lasso his legs with a rope, allowing the Autobots to escape.

[[File:Coredevastator&prime.jpg|left|thumb|Devastator has no idea how to start transforming 20th Anniversary Prime.]]
At the [[Ark (G1)|Autobot base]], the Autobots use [[Teletraan I]] to calculate what will happen if the drill hits the Earth's core. The result will be total annihilation, but the Autobots have little hope of defeating the Decepticons with Devastator. [[Wheeljack (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Wheeljack]] and [[Chip Chase]] present [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] with their new [[dominator disk]]s, which will be placed on the individual Constructicons and take control of them when they form Devastator. Convinced, Optimus Prime orders a commando team to plant the disks on the Constructicons. Heading for the drilling site, [[Ironhide (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ironhide]] freezes the falls, causing the drill to heat up. [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] orders the Constructicons to the surface, during which the Autobots plant a disk on each Constructicon. As the commandos are pulled out, Starscream has them dead to rights, but Megatron orders him to let them go, saying that he knows of their plan to control Devastator. As Megatron positions the Decepticons, he orders the Decepticons to attack. The Decepticons fire on the still moving Autobots, who break formation, as the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]] transform to [[bring the rain]] on the Autobots. Megatron orders the Constructicons to form Devastator, who grabs Prime. Wheeljack activates the disks and Optimus orders Devastator to release him and attack the Decepticons. Devastator follows the Autobot leader's orders. Megatron orders the Decepticons to retreat to the cave and Devastator seals them in. Optimus orders the Autobots to break off, as they can now finish the Decepticons at their leisure.

[[File:Corediagramscene.jpg|thumb|The Earth consists of a crust, the mantle, the outer core, the inner core, the inner inner core, the inner inner inner core, the...]]
Within the caverns, Starscream whines about being trapped, not having enough water to keep drilling, and so on. However, Megatron reveals that this was all part of his plan: he has a device that will override the dominator disks and stored enough water to continue drilling for some time. He just didn't tell Starscream because he's a terrible actor. At the Autobot base, the Constructicons are helping with repairs, when an earthquake hits. Realizing that the Decepticons are still drilling, the Autobots head to put them out of commission. However, Megatron is aware of their coming, watching them through the Constructicons' eyes. The Autobots and Devastator head for the cave, and Devastator is set to destroy it, at which point Megatron uses his control switch to deactivate the disks. Devastator begins attacking the Autobots, so Wheeljack tries to boost power to the disks. Unfortunately, this fries Devastator's [[Circuit (circuit)|logic circuits]] and sends him into a killing frenzy, attacking both Autobot and Decepticon alike.

[[File:Coremegs&wheeljack.jpg|left|thumb|Take off your clothes and come on in!]]
Finally, the drill hits the core and the cave—and the earth itself—begin to come apart. Unfortunately, Devastator's rampage has damaged the drill's controls. Megatron orders the Decepticons to the space bridge, but Devastator damages it too. Optimus convinces Megatron to give his control switch to Wheeljack, who uses it to deactivate the disks and bring Devastator back to normal. Devastator then heads to destroy the drill, while the Decepticons flee for their [[Spark|lives]]. Devastator succeeds, but is surprised by Megatron's absence. Chip tells Devastator that he ran, but Devastator believes that "Noble Megatron" merely left to plan their next attack and leaves (he really is as dumb as a post). Chip is somewhat saddened, as he was hoping that Devastator would join the Autobots. Optimus tells him that the future is built on dreams and not to let go of his.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Gears (G1)|Gears]] (8)
*[[Jazz (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Jazz]] (9)
*[[Sunstreaker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sunstreaker]] (10)
*[[Prowl (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Prowl]] (11)
*[[Mirage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Mirage]] (12)
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] (17)
*[[Wheeljack (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Wheeljack]] (19)
*[[Ironhide (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ironhide]] (20)
*[[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] (24)
*[[Sideswipe (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sideswipe]] (25)
*[[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]] (26)
|c2=
*[[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (1)
*[[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (2)
*[[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (3)
*[[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (4)
*[[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (5)
*[[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (6)
*[[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] (7)
*[[Laserbeak (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Laserbeak]] (13)
*[[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] (14)
*[[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (15)
*[[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (16)
*[[Thundercracker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Thundercracker]] (21)
*[[Skywarp (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Skywarp]] (22)
*[[Ravage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ravage]] (23)
|c3=
*[[Chip Chase]] (18)
}}

==Quotes==
"Autobots, move out!"
:—'''Sunstreaker''', thinking he outranks Jazz and Prowl.

"It's like shooting [[dynametal duck]]s in a beryllium barrel."
:—'''Starscream''' wonders if they store [[beryllium baloney]] in beryllium barrels.

"Traitor!"
:—'''Starscream''' to Megatron. No, you read that right.

"DEVASTATOR! DEVASTATOR! HEEEEELP!!!!"
:—'''Starscream''' running and waving his arms at Devastator like an idiot.

"I do this only for the benefit of my Decepticons. It grieves me that you may also profit."
:—'''Megatron''', agreeing to ally with the Autobots and lying through his teeth (he's doing it to save his own chassis).

"What's the matter, Chip?" 
"I guess I was hoping Devastator might join the Autobots for good, but that's probably just a dumb old dream." 
"Hang on to your dreams, Chip. The future is built on dreams. Hang on."
:—'''Optimus Prime''' gives '''Chip Chase''' valuable words to live by.

==Notes==
===Production information===
* First draft script: 21st December 1984
* Dialogue recording: 28th January 1985

===Continuity notes===
[[File:TheCore HookfixesJazz.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
[[File:Sound and light show.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
*Devastator wants to squash the Autobots like "[[mechano-ants]]".
*Megatron takes a jab at Starscream's acting abilities, which we witnessed just [[A Prime Problem|one episode ago]]. He's no [[Shia LaBeouf|Beef]], but hey, he's [[Megatron's Master Plan, Part 2|just starting]] [[Starscream's Ghost|his career]] at this point.
*Megatron specifically says Starscream's acting wouldn't fool a "[[Saturn]]ian simpleton". As it would turn out in "[[The God Gambit]]", the beings that on live on Saturn's moon [[Titan (moon)|Titan]] ''were'' kinda dumb.
*Hook can "perform flawlessly to within one five hundred thousandth of a [[Units of length|Cybertronic mini-inch]]".
*Gadgets and powers:
**Everyone's arms are completely hollow in this episode. One character after the next retracts their hands into their wrists:
***Starscream reveals an improbably large drill in place of his retracted hand.
***Mirage has a tow cable in his wrist.
***Ironhide retracts his hands to fire an improbably huge torrent of blue liquid that freezes the waterfall.
***Sunstreaker, Jazz, and Wheeljack all retract their hands and replace them with wrist-rockets. Wheeljack is ''supposed'' to be able to do this according to his tech spec; the ability appeared very briefly in "[[The Autobot Run]]", and he also flew ''without'' retracting his hands in "[[A Plague of Insecticons]]" and "[[S.O.S. Dinobots]]".)
***Jazz also has a grappling hook/tow line. Of all these gimmicks, this is the only one that's actually appeared before, way back in "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 2]]" and [[More than Meets the Eye, Part 3|Part 3]].
**Jazz also uses his standard sound & light show. It's... not as impressive [[The Immobilizer|as it could be]].
**Hook uses his crane mode hook as a welding tip.
**Optimus Prime's trailer has a crane and a pyramid-shaped cage to lift the five Autobots.
**Starscream has a hand-held rifle which he attempts to use on the retreating Autobots after they place Dominator Disks on Devastator.
**Bluestreak's missiles break apart into shards after launch.
*For the first and only time in the series, Chip appears but Spike doesn't.
*The Autobots would finally have a combiner team to call their own in "[[The Key to Vector Sigma, Part 2]]".

===Real-world references===
*''[[Star Wars (franchise)|Star Wars]]'' sound effects:
**As often happens, Laserbeak gets the [[TIE Fighter]] engine sound just after he flies over the Autobots.

===Animation and technical errors===
This being one of the Season 2 AKOM episodes, many characters have unusual color schemes which persist through the entire episode. This includes:
[[File:TheCore Chip in Wheeljack.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
[[File:TheCore ConstructiconsMegatronPoint.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|Find the artists responsible for this color change, and DESTROY THEM!]]
*Megatron's gun barrel is dark gray.
*Gears' truck mode is red with blue fenders instead of blue with a red camper top. His white robot bits are colored light gray.
*Prowl is a light gray instead of white.
*Optimus Prime's backpack is white instead of red.
*Chip has a blue jacket instead of brown. This is ''good'', though. It means that, unlike a lot of cartoon humans, he actually changes clothes.
*The circle on Bumblebee's back is dark gray instead of yellow.

Errors not attributable to model sheets include:
*It seems unlikely that the metal ring surrounding the drill would fracture in exactly the same way as the rock surrounding it.
*Hook's first transformation is bizarre. His crane mode cab just kind of disappears into his stomach... only to reappear as his foot a second later.
*Scavenger's voice gives the "emergency!" lines that follow, but Scrapper is shown. It's not clear from the animation who's actually speaking, though.
*[[Michael Bell]]'s performance of Scrapper is noticeably higher-pitched and more manic than usual in this episode. He's cranked Scrapper's usual vocal "scratchiness" up a bit too, at times adding a protracted rasp between sentences.
*When the Constructicons are all shown zapping the fissure shut, all the other cracks are gone.
*Subsequent shots of the drill show no trace of the Constructicons' ad hoc ground repairs. Did they pave them over??
*Missing Seeker insignia:
**When he's first seen sitting at the console, Starscream is missing the Decepticon emblems on his wings.
**Starscream has only one wing emblem as he watches Megatron walk through the holographic rock wall.
**The Seekers are all missing their wing emblems as the Decepticons launch their counterattack on the approaching Autobots in the canyon.
**Starscream's missing his wing emblems yet again as he turns and says "You thought of everything".
**Starscream's got only one emblem as he runs crying to Devastator for help. Seriously, how hard is it to keep track of two emblems?
*It's not indisputably an error, but Starscream's hand makes none of the typical whirring/sliding noises as he retracts it and replaces it with the drill (which, holy cow, where does he ''keep'' that thing?)
*The animation of the Autobots driving up the slope out of the riverbed is crude and mistimed—Mirage drives all the way into the slope before he tilts to start climbing it. The other Autobots all tilt up as a group, even though they're in a line.
*Laserbeak's missing his transformation sound as he returns to Soundwave's chest compartment after sighting the Autobots.
*As Laserbeak plays back the Autobots' words, a second voice seems to be echoing Jazz's "Constructicons!"
*As the Constructicons all transform to [[alternate mode|vehicle mode]], both Hook and Mixmaster suffer from their feet failing to become the corresponding part of their vehicle modes. All of the Constructicons have completely changed positions from where they were standing in the preceding shot.
*The boulder that Devastator uses against the Autobots is never seen to hit bottom.
*As usual, Devastator's combination sequence is screwed up. In addition to lacking any transformation noise, Long Haul only forms about half of his actual contribution, with Hook getting the rest. At least they got the other four guys correct!
*Three of the Constructicons are shown monitoring the drill, while at the same time Devastator is outside fighting the rest of the Autobots. ([[:File:Megatronffod.jpg|More than six]] [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]]? [[Personal canon|Madness!]]) In the same scene, Starscream's missing one of his wing emblems yet again.
*Both Mirage and Sunstreaker drive ''through'' the tow line as they wrap it around Devastator's feet. As Devastator falls from their snare, he has two eyes instead of his usual visor.
*Coloring errors:
**Wheeljack has some strange white areas on his head when he's first seen inside Autobot Headquarters.
**Wheeljack's roof is orange instead of white as Chip leans out his window.
**Skywarp and Starscream both have yellow nosecones as they transform back into [[robot mode]] en route to the space bridge.
**Once the Autobots subjugate Devastator, he's seen swatting Skywarp, but the next shot is of Thundercracker spinning out of control. Then Thundercracker immediately flies back in ''again'' and is swatted off, screaming in Starscream's voice. The shot following that has Skywarp standing with the other Decepticons.
**Megatron has a red Decepticon symbol when he orders the Constructicons to stop the drill.
*The center line on Scrapper's face mask disappears as he orders the Constructicons to the surface.
*The Constructicons' elevator isn't animated, making them appear to just levitate into the air in vehicle mode. A whirring effects noise, and a lack of glow effects, makes it seem that this was ''not'' supposed to be the levitation beam used earlier by Starscream and Megatron. A second later, however, they ''do'' drive off the levitation beam, complete with glow effect.
*There is ''no way'' Ironhide has room for that much of the water-freezing liquid inside him.
*There's an existing Dominator Disk on Scrapper upon which Prowl sticks another one.
*Appearing/disappearing Autobots:
**Ironhide is shown retreating into the cage at the bottom of the cliff, even though he was never shown to have left the top of the cliff. He seems to have taken Sunstreaker's place. As the cage begins to rise, Sunstreaker reappears (with a strangely miscolored or off-model head), but Jazz is missing.
**The roster of Autobots on the return mission to the cave fluctuates all over the place. Prowl, Jazz, Ironhide and Sideswipe are shown leaving Autobot HQ (and Devastator apparently just sits there while the Autobots move out!) When they arrive at the cave, Hound and Wheeljack have replaced Prowl and Ironhide. After Chip is trapped in the cave, Ratchet shows up among Devastator's victims. After the commercial break, Ironhide is back with the group. As the earthquakes begin, Sunstreaker shows up out of nowhere to rescue Chip.
*Five Autobots fit inside Prime's pyramid cage, which then fits inside his trailer. Huge trailer, or tiny Autobots?
*As he ejects Ravage, the inside of Soundwave's chest compartment is bright yellow.
*Devastator's second combination sequence contains the same visual errors as the first one; plus, Hook's mass includes Bonecrusher's scoop.
*As Devastator blasts the Decepticons' cave shut, the frozen falls spontaneously unfreeze for no apparent reason.
*Bumblebee is with the cheering Autobots as Devastator flies out of the canyon, despite not being seen anywhere else in the episode.
*Again, the metal in Autobot Headquarters splits as though it were rock.
*After Hook repairs Jazz, he drives over to Devastator and transforms into ''nothing but his head''.
*When Devastator blasts the cave entrance open again, the falls are once again frozen!
*When the combined doohickeys zap Devastator back under control causing the Constructicons to disengage, the left arm transforms into Scrapper, while the right leg transforms into Bonecrusher.
*Third Devastator sequence: worst one yet! Scrapper's not really visible at all. ''Scavenger'' and Mixmaster form not only the legs but also half of Long Haul's bits (the same incomplete half that Long Haul himself formed the first time around!) Long Haul then ''splits in two'' to become the rest of Devastator's torso, including everything formed by Hook, ''and'' Bonecrusher and Scavenger's vehicle treads. Bonecrusher and ''Hook'' then form the arms. When he's finished forming, Devastator's torso plate is green instead of purple.
*Wheeljack's ears don't flash as he and Prime snicker at Chip's "Mr. Nobility" line.
*Though maintaining a consistent scale has [[Scale|never been a particularly important issue]] in Transformers fiction, this episode is a particularly notable offender, with Devastator's relative size fluctuating wildly: in some scenes Megatron appears to be almost half his height, whilst at other times the Autobots barely come up to the top of his ''foot''. In one scene, vehicle mode Bonecrusher seems to be almost as high as robot mode Megatron. Chip's scaling is also wildly variable: when Sunstreaker rescues him from the cave, he appears knee-high to the Autobots, but in the very next scene he has suddenly become as large as Wheeljack.

===Continuity errors===
*Megatron's assertion that the [[Earth's core]] is the richest source of energy in [[Milky Way|the galaxy]] is not even remotely true, even within the bizarre realm of the cartoon's physics. Heck, just within our own little [[Solar System]], the [[Sun]] is immeasurably more potent.
*Why the heck is Sunstreaker giving orders to a group that includes Prowl and Jazz?
*What kind of tree branch (growing out of a cliff, no less) is strong enough to support a falling Transformer?
*Jazz and Sunstreaker both use wrist-rockets to lower themselves into the canyon. According to the tech specs, that's really supposed to be Wheeljack's schtick.
*How does freezing the waterfall stop the whole river? Wouldn't it make more sense to break the dam that's diverting the river upstream?
*How did the Constructicons not notice the Autobots as they were placing the Dominator Disks on them?
*How ''did'' Megatron figure out the Autobots' strategy?
*Is Devastator ''really'' the only one who can stop the drill? Can't anybody just shoot the thing at its source?
*Why do the Constructicons all feel the need to simultaneously transform to robot mode (then have a little out-of-character heroic chat) when ordered to transform to Devastator? This is one of the episodes where they are assumed to need to be in vehicle mode—which they are already in—to combine.
*The whole countdown to the Earth's core, down to the ''second'', is patently ridiculous. The boundary of the Earth's core is not nearly so neatly defined. And penetrating it with such a comparatively tiny drill would be unlikely to shatter the planet.
*While counting down the time before the drill hits the Earth's core, Prime says 10 seconds, then Megatron says 1 second immediately thereafter. Somehow, 9 seconds disappear without any editing or time lapse. A lot more than 1 second elapses before Devastator destroys the drill.
*How did Devastator get all the way from near the earth's surface to near its core so quickly? How did he slow himself at the end to avoid crashing? And how did he withstand the heat down there, when his component parts [[Heavy Metal War|are not even very keen on ordinary lava]]?
**While we're at it, if everyone was so concerned that the drill was going to destroy Earth, then ''why'' would Devastator go ''underneath'' the drill to stop it? If they were cutting it so close, wasn't anybody in the ''least'' bit concerned that Devastator might break into the core on accident?
**Also, Devastator's strategy for stopping the drill shouldn't have worked. It should have impaled him. (Them? It? Ah, whatever.)
*Where did the fleeing Decepticons think they were ''going'', anyway?

===Trivia===
[[File:TheCore Jazz dominator disc.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|Look close. He's totally got the same black-eyes-beneath-the-visor thing that he had in "[[DIS-Integrated Circuits!]]"]]
*The Earth's core is believed to be around 3959 miles below the surface. So like, is the Decepticon's drill four thousand miles long? That means that before they started drilling, if the tip was touching the Earth's surface, the top would be ''in outer space''. How did no one ''notice'' that?
*After all the fuss the others go through while getting into the canyon (wrist rockets, grappling hook slides), Prowl just ''jumps'' down.
*When Megatron orders a retreat, cat mode Ravage flies off into the air alongside his comrades.
*Megatron stops Starscream from sniping the Autobots as Optimus Prime reels them up the cliff, arguing that killing six Autobots would be pointless since he plans on having Devastator destroy all the Autobots at the right moment. When that moment comes, there are still only (give or take) six Autobots to be had. Should have gone with your gut, Starscream.
*A deleted sequence near the end featuring the Constructicons is present in the [[dialogue script]]. It's a little hard to figure out what they would've been doing, but Mixmaster takes the "cackling witch" part of his Bio literally with the dropped line "Boil, boil, toil and trouble...acid eat and rocks go bubble!" - an intentional mangling of the witches' chant from ''Macbeth''.
*This episode is one of a trio, including "[[City of Steel (episode)|City of Steel]]" and "[[The Autobot Run]]", that was animated by the Korean studio [[AKOM]]. They are distinguished by simplistic art, prominent use of the Constructicons, surprisingly high frame rates, some Hanna-Barbara-style animation shortcuts, and various character model oddities, such as Optimus Prime's white backpack (which would show up again in "[[The Rebirth, Part 1|The Rebirth]]") and Chip Chase's blue jacket... not to mention a ''crapload'' of animation errors. Sheesh, AKOM.
*Optimus Prime's last lines in this episode - "The future is built on dreams" - is notable as [[Peter Cullen]]'s words of encouragement to a young fan of Optimus Prime in real life, dying of a terminal illness. To this day, when interviewed about this line, Cullen will invariably be moved to tears by its memory, such was his love for the child. A true man amongst men, if there ever was one.<ref>[https://www.ign.com/articles/2011/09/30/transformers-peter-cullen-life-as-optimus-prime IGN interview with Peter Cullen]</ref>

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Le forage'''" ("The Drilling")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
::*This episode is one of those that has never been released on DVD in French.
::*The Constructicon curse continues, as Mixmaster's first lines in vehicle mode are missing from the dub.
::*Sunstreaker's line at the river "Okay Autobots, move out!" is also missing.
::*[[Jacques Ferrière]] vanished again. He will be back next episode.

'''German'''
:*''Title (Generation 2 dub):'' "'''Erde in Gefahr'''" ("Earth in Danger")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[June 11]], [[1994]]

'''Italian'''
:*''Title (dub 1):'' "'''Al centro della Terra'''" ("To the Center of Earth")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

:*''Title (dub 2):'' "'''Il nucleo'''" ("The Core")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Devastor o Taose!'''" (デバスターを倒せ!, "Defeat Devastor!")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[June 20]], [[1986]]

'''Mandarin'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Dìqiú Héxīn '''" (地球核心, "The Core of the Earth")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Brazilian Portuguese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''O Núcleo'''" ("The Core")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Russian'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Yadro'''" (Ядро, "The Core" )
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

=== Toys inspired by this episode ===
* '''''[[The Transformers: Masterpiece|Masterpiece]]'' MP-52 [[Starscream (G1)/toys#MP52|Starscream Ver. 2.0]] (TakaraTomy, [[2021]])'''
:One of the accessories included with this version of Starscream is the drill arm he uses in this episode.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;{{w|LaserDisc}}
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] [[1995]] — ''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' — Megatron Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] [[1999]] — ''The Transformers'' — Decepticon Edition ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] [[2001]] — ''The Transformers'' — DVD Box 2 (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] [[2002]] — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1 ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2002 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1: Vol. 2 (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] [[2003]] — ''Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] [[2004]] — ''Transformers'' — Collection 2: Series 2.1 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] [[2006]] — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] [[2007]] — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of Italy.png|20px|Italy]] [[2008]] — ''Transformers'' — Volume 03: Stagione Due Parte Prima ([[Medianetwork Communication]]) — English and Italian audio. 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] [[2009]] — ''Transformers'' — Season Two: Part One (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Season Two, Volume One: 25th Anniversary Edition ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] [[2011]] — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Original Series (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] [[2014]] — ''The Transformers'' — Season Two, Volume One: 30th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2014 — ''Transformers'' — The Classic Animated Series (Metrodome)

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lE-h4XZtVwu1Fx1n2IuRcK7AbkOrWusF/view?usp=drive_link Partial episode script]
*[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1p5SFRknSi5bq1RjbkjCcXIlut9TCyh56/view?usp=drive_link Episode dialogue script]
*[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Khiq3GAxN5-ZqjJUJIYt04VrU2GBN3uU/view?usp=drive_link Model sheets and background layouts]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Core}}
[[Category:The Transformers episodes]]
[[Category:Generation 2 episodes]]

The Core

2025-03-23T01:38:36Z

Diesel Prime: /* Continuity notes */

{{disambig3|Core}}
{{episode
|series=G1toon
|ep=28
|series2=SRLFtoon
|ep2=49
|prev2=Cosmic Rust (episode)
|next2=Blaster Blues
|series3=''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (cartoon)|Transformers: Generation 2]]''
|ep3=7
|prev3=The Autobot Run
|next3=Dinobot Island, Part 1
|image=TheCore Devastator zapped.jpg
|caption=
|title="The Core"
|season=2
|season ep=12
|production code=#700-27
|airdate=[[October 29]], 1985
|written by=[[Dennis Marks]]
|animation studio=[[AKOM]]
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
|video=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEXja5bHm30
|videosite=YouTube
}}
'''Megatron tries to drill his way to the center to the Earth, while the Autobots take control of Devastator with mind-controlling Dominator Disks.'''

==Synopsis==
[[File:Coredevastatorattacks.jpg|left|thumb|Bowling for Autobots]]
At an underground cavern near a waterfall, the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] are digging with a massive drill. However, the rock they're drilling through breaks, and only some quick work on [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]]'s part plugs it up. [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] orders Mixmaster to look over [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]]'s sensory equipment, while [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] does his daily whine-about-Megatron's-nefarious-plan bit. Megatron counters that if they manage to tap into the [[Earth's core|Earth's molten core]], it will give the [[Decepticon]]s geothermal energy, a limitless power source. Starscream counters that if they breach the core, the Earth runs the risk of exploding. However, Megatron doesn't care: he's placed a [[space bridge]] near the drilling site, which will take the Decepticons to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] if the Earth's stability should be threatened.

[[File:Coreautobotsinnet.jpg|thumb|This is the worst tent ever!]]
Meanwhile, [[Jazz (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Jazz]], [[Prowl (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Prowl]], [[Gears (G1)|Gears]], [[Mirage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Mirage]], and [[Sunstreaker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sunstreaker]] are driving around in that general area, when Sunstreaker realizes that there should be a river where they're driving through. The Autobots head to investigate, and see Mixmaster and Scavenger. The Autobots [[Transformation|transform]] to attack, only to see that the Constructicons have disappeared, and to fail to notice [[Laserbeak (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Laserbeak]] above them. Informed by [[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]], Megatron orders the Constructicons to destroy the Autobots and form [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]. The Decepticon [[combiner]] knocks the Autobots off the cliff, but Mirage goes invisible on them. He remains undetected as Devastator attacks the others, and finds the drill. As Mirage rejoins the group, Jazz does a [[sound and light show]] which distracts Devastator while Mirage and Sunstreaker lasso his legs with a rope, allowing the Autobots to escape.

[[File:Coredevastator&prime.jpg|left|thumb|Devastator has no idea how to start transforming 20th Anniversary Prime.]]
At the [[Ark (G1)|Autobot base]], the Autobots use [[Teletraan I]] to calculate what will happen if the drill hits the Earth's core. The result will be total annihilation, but the Autobots have little hope of defeating the Decepticons with Devastator. [[Wheeljack (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Wheeljack]] and [[Chip Chase]] present [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] with their new [[dominator disk]]s, which will be placed on the individual Constructicons and take control of them when they form Devastator. Convinced, Optimus Prime orders a commando team to plant the disks on the Constructicons. Heading for the drilling site, [[Ironhide (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ironhide]] freezes the falls, causing the drill to heat up. [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] orders the Constructicons to the surface, during which the Autobots plant a disk on each Constructicon. As the commandos are pulled out, Starscream has them dead to rights, but Megatron orders him to let them go, saying that he knows of their plan to control Devastator. As Megatron positions the Decepticons, he orders the Decepticons to attack. The Decepticons fire on the still moving Autobots, who break formation, as the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]] transform to [[bring the rain]] on the Autobots. Megatron orders the Constructicons to form Devastator, who grabs Prime. Wheeljack activates the disks and Optimus orders Devastator to release him and attack the Decepticons. Devastator follows the Autobot leader's orders. Megatron orders the Decepticons to retreat to the cave and Devastator seals them in. Optimus orders the Autobots to break off, as they can now finish the Decepticons at their leisure.

[[File:Corediagramscene.jpg|thumb|The Earth consists of a crust, the mantle, the outer core, the inner core, the inner inner core, the inner inner inner core, the...]]
Within the caverns, Starscream whines about being trapped, not having enough water to keep drilling, and so on. However, Megatron reveals that this was all part of his plan: he has a device that will override the dominator disks and stored enough water to continue drilling for some time. He just didn't tell Starscream because he's a terrible actor. At the Autobot base, the Constructicons are helping with repairs, when an earthquake hits. Realizing that the Decepticons are still drilling, the Autobots head to put them out of commission. However, Megatron is aware of their coming, watching them through the Constructicons' eyes. The Autobots and Devastator head for the cave, and Devastator is set to destroy it, at which point Megatron uses his control switch to deactivate the disks. Devastator begins attacking the Autobots, so Wheeljack tries to boost power to the disks. Unfortunately, this fries Devastator's [[Circuit (circuit)|logic circuits]] and sends him into a killing frenzy, attacking both Autobot and Decepticon alike.

[[File:Coremegs&wheeljack.jpg|left|thumb|Take off your clothes and come on in!]]
Finally, the drill hits the core and the cave—and the earth itself—begin to come apart. Unfortunately, Devastator's rampage has damaged the drill's controls. Megatron orders the Decepticons to the space bridge, but Devastator damages it too. Optimus convinces Megatron to give his control switch to Wheeljack, who uses it to deactivate the disks and bring Devastator back to normal. Devastator then heads to destroy the drill, while the Decepticons flee for their [[Spark|lives]]. Devastator succeeds, but is surprised by Megatron's absence. Chip tells Devastator that he ran, but Devastator believes that "Noble Megatron" merely left to plan their next attack and leaves (he really is as dumb as a post). Chip is somewhat saddened, as he was hoping that Devastator would join the Autobots. Optimus tells him that the future is built on dreams and not to let go of his.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Gears (G1)|Gears]] (8)
*[[Jazz (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Jazz]] (9)
*[[Sunstreaker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sunstreaker]] (10)
*[[Prowl (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Prowl]] (11)
*[[Mirage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Mirage]] (12)
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] (17)
*[[Wheeljack (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Wheeljack]] (19)
*[[Ironhide (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ironhide]] (20)
*[[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] (24)
*[[Sideswipe (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sideswipe]] (25)
*[[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]] (26)
|c2=
*[[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (1)
*[[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (2)
*[[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (3)
*[[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (4)
*[[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (5)
*[[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (6)
*[[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] (7)
*[[Laserbeak (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Laserbeak]] (13)
*[[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] (14)
*[[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (15)
*[[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (16)
*[[Thundercracker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Thundercracker]] (21)
*[[Skywarp (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Skywarp]] (22)
*[[Ravage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ravage]] (23)
|c3=
*[[Chip Chase]] (18)
}}

==Quotes==
"Autobots, move out!"
:—'''Sunstreaker''', thinking he outranks Jazz and Prowl.

"It's like shooting [[dynametal duck]]s in a beryllium barrel."
:—'''Starscream''' wonders if they store [[beryllium baloney]] in beryllium barrels.

"Traitor!"
:—'''Starscream''' to Megatron. No, you read that right.

"DEVASTATOR! DEVASTATOR! HEEEEELP!!!!"
:—'''Starscream''' running and waving his arms at Devastator like an idiot.

"I do this only for the benefit of my Decepticons. It grieves me that you may also profit."
:—'''Megatron''', agreeing to ally with the Autobots and lying through his teeth (he's doing it to save his own chassis).

"What's the matter, Chip?" 
"I guess I was hoping Devastator might join the Autobots for good, but that's probably just a dumb old dream." 
"Hang on to your dreams, Chip. The future is built on dreams. Hang on."
:—'''Optimus Prime''' gives '''Chip Chase''' valuable words to live by.

==Notes==
===Production information===
* First draft script: 21st December 1984
* Dialogue recording: 28th January 1985

===Continuity notes===
[[File:TheCore HookfixesJazz.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
[[File:Sound and light show.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
*Devastator wants to squash the Autobots like "[[mechano-ants]]".
*Megatron takes a jab at Starscream's acting abilities, which we witnessed just [[A Prime Problem|one episode ago]]. He's no [[Shia LaBeouf|Beef]], but hey, he's [[Megatron's Master Plan, Part 2|just starting]] [[Starscream's Ghost|his career]] at this point.
*Megatron specifically says Starscream's acting wouldn't fool a "[[Saturn]]ian simpleton". As it would turn out in "[[The God Gambit]]", the beings that on live on Saturn's moon [[Titan (moon)|Titan]] ''were'' kinda dumb.
*Hook can "perform flawlessly to within one five hundred thousandth of a [[Units of length|Cybertronic mini-inch]]".
*Gadgets and powers:
**Everyone's arms are completely hollow in this episode. One character after the next retracts their hands into their wrists:
***Starscream reveals an improbably large drill in place of his retracted hand.
***Mirage has a tow cable in his wrist.
***Ironhide retracts his hands to fire an improbably huge torrent of blue liquid that freezes the waterfall.
***Sunstreaker, Jazz, and Wheeljack all retract their hands and replace them with wrist-rockets. Wheeljack is ''supposed'' to be able to do this according to his tech spec; the ability appeared very briefly in "[[The Autobot Run]]", and he also flew ''without'' retracting his hands in "[[A Plague of Insecticons]]" and "[[S.O.S. Dinobots]]".)
***Jazz also has a grappling hook/tow line. Of all these gimmicks, this is the only one that's actually appeared before, way back in "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 2]]" and [[More than Meets the Eye, Part 3|Part 3]].
**Jazz also uses his standard sound & light show. It's... not as impressive [[The Immobilizer|as it could be]].
**Hook uses his crane mode hook as a welding tip.
**Optimus Prime's trailer has a crane and a pyramid-shaped cage to lift the five Autobots.
**Starscream has a hand-held rifle which he attempts to use on the retreating Autobots after they place Dominator Disks on Devastator.
**Bluestreak's missiles break apart into shards after launch.
*For the first and only time in the series, Chip appears but Spike doesn't.
*The Autobots would finally have a combiner team to call their own in "[[The Key to Vector Sigma, Part 2]]".
*It does seem a little out of character for the Autobots to resort to mind control, especially with their leader’s whole thing being, “Freedom is the right of all sentient beings”. However it is established that the Constructicons are already under mind control, from Megatron using the Robosmasher to reprogram them from good to evil. So the Autobots are technically Mind-controlling mind-controlled bots to essentially act more like their old selves (Is this a case where two wrongs do in fact make a right?). Or possible, in universe, this is them trying to test possible permanent fixes for the Robosmasher’s reprogramming. Too bad Omega couldn’t enjoy some time with his old friends.

===Real-world references===
*''[[Star Wars (franchise)|Star Wars]]'' sound effects:
**As often happens, Laserbeak gets the [[TIE Fighter]] engine sound just after he flies over the Autobots.

===Animation and technical errors===
This being one of the Season 2 AKOM episodes, many characters have unusual color schemes which persist through the entire episode. This includes:
[[File:TheCore Chip in Wheeljack.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
[[File:TheCore ConstructiconsMegatronPoint.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|Find the artists responsible for this color change, and DESTROY THEM!]]
*Megatron's gun barrel is dark gray.
*Gears' truck mode is red with blue fenders instead of blue with a red camper top. His white robot bits are colored light gray.
*Prowl is a light gray instead of white.
*Optimus Prime's backpack is white instead of red.
*Chip has a blue jacket instead of brown. This is ''good'', though. It means that, unlike a lot of cartoon humans, he actually changes clothes.
*The circle on Bumblebee's back is dark gray instead of yellow.

Errors not attributable to model sheets include:
*It seems unlikely that the metal ring surrounding the drill would fracture in exactly the same way as the rock surrounding it.
*Hook's first transformation is bizarre. His crane mode cab just kind of disappears into his stomach... only to reappear as his foot a second later.
*Scavenger's voice gives the "emergency!" lines that follow, but Scrapper is shown. It's not clear from the animation who's actually speaking, though.
*[[Michael Bell]]'s performance of Scrapper is noticeably higher-pitched and more manic than usual in this episode. He's cranked Scrapper's usual vocal "scratchiness" up a bit too, at times adding a protracted rasp between sentences.
*When the Constructicons are all shown zapping the fissure shut, all the other cracks are gone.
*Subsequent shots of the drill show no trace of the Constructicons' ad hoc ground repairs. Did they pave them over??
*Missing Seeker insignia:
**When he's first seen sitting at the console, Starscream is missing the Decepticon emblems on his wings.
**Starscream has only one wing emblem as he watches Megatron walk through the holographic rock wall.
**The Seekers are all missing their wing emblems as the Decepticons launch their counterattack on the approaching Autobots in the canyon.
**Starscream's missing his wing emblems yet again as he turns and says "You thought of everything".
**Starscream's got only one emblem as he runs crying to Devastator for help. Seriously, how hard is it to keep track of two emblems?
*It's not indisputably an error, but Starscream's hand makes none of the typical whirring/sliding noises as he retracts it and replaces it with the drill (which, holy cow, where does he ''keep'' that thing?)
*The animation of the Autobots driving up the slope out of the riverbed is crude and mistimed—Mirage drives all the way into the slope before he tilts to start climbing it. The other Autobots all tilt up as a group, even though they're in a line.
*Laserbeak's missing his transformation sound as he returns to Soundwave's chest compartment after sighting the Autobots.
*As Laserbeak plays back the Autobots' words, a second voice seems to be echoing Jazz's "Constructicons!"
*As the Constructicons all transform to [[alternate mode|vehicle mode]], both Hook and Mixmaster suffer from their feet failing to become the corresponding part of their vehicle modes. All of the Constructicons have completely changed positions from where they were standing in the preceding shot.
*The boulder that Devastator uses against the Autobots is never seen to hit bottom.
*As usual, Devastator's combination sequence is screwed up. In addition to lacking any transformation noise, Long Haul only forms about half of his actual contribution, with Hook getting the rest. At least they got the other four guys correct!
*Three of the Constructicons are shown monitoring the drill, while at the same time Devastator is outside fighting the rest of the Autobots. ([[:File:Megatronffod.jpg|More than six]] [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]]? [[Personal canon|Madness!]]) In the same scene, Starscream's missing one of his wing emblems yet again.
*Both Mirage and Sunstreaker drive ''through'' the tow line as they wrap it around Devastator's feet. As Devastator falls from their snare, he has two eyes instead of his usual visor.
*Coloring errors:
**Wheeljack has some strange white areas on his head when he's first seen inside Autobot Headquarters.
**Wheeljack's roof is orange instead of white as Chip leans out his window.
**Skywarp and Starscream both have yellow nosecones as they transform back into [[robot mode]] en route to the space bridge.
**Once the Autobots subjugate Devastator, he's seen swatting Skywarp, but the next shot is of Thundercracker spinning out of control. Then Thundercracker immediately flies back in ''again'' and is swatted off, screaming in Starscream's voice. The shot following that has Skywarp standing with the other Decepticons.
**Megatron has a red Decepticon symbol when he orders the Constructicons to stop the drill.
*The center line on Scrapper's face mask disappears as he orders the Constructicons to the surface.
*The Constructicons' elevator isn't animated, making them appear to just levitate into the air in vehicle mode. A whirring effects noise, and a lack of glow effects, makes it seem that this was ''not'' supposed to be the levitation beam used earlier by Starscream and Megatron. A second later, however, they ''do'' drive off the levitation beam, complete with glow effect.
*There is ''no way'' Ironhide has room for that much of the water-freezing liquid inside him.
*There's an existing Dominator Disk on Scrapper upon which Prowl sticks another one.
*Appearing/disappearing Autobots:
**Ironhide is shown retreating into the cage at the bottom of the cliff, even though he was never shown to have left the top of the cliff. He seems to have taken Sunstreaker's place. As the cage begins to rise, Sunstreaker reappears (with a strangely miscolored or off-model head), but Jazz is missing.
**The roster of Autobots on the return mission to the cave fluctuates all over the place. Prowl, Jazz, Ironhide and Sideswipe are shown leaving Autobot HQ (and Devastator apparently just sits there while the Autobots move out!) When they arrive at the cave, Hound and Wheeljack have replaced Prowl and Ironhide. After Chip is trapped in the cave, Ratchet shows up among Devastator's victims. After the commercial break, Ironhide is back with the group. As the earthquakes begin, Sunstreaker shows up out of nowhere to rescue Chip.
*Five Autobots fit inside Prime's pyramid cage, which then fits inside his trailer. Huge trailer, or tiny Autobots?
*As he ejects Ravage, the inside of Soundwave's chest compartment is bright yellow.
*Devastator's second combination sequence contains the same visual errors as the first one; plus, Hook's mass includes Bonecrusher's scoop.
*As Devastator blasts the Decepticons' cave shut, the frozen falls spontaneously unfreeze for no apparent reason.
*Bumblebee is with the cheering Autobots as Devastator flies out of the canyon, despite not being seen anywhere else in the episode.
*Again, the metal in Autobot Headquarters splits as though it were rock.
*After Hook repairs Jazz, he drives over to Devastator and transforms into ''nothing but his head''.
*When Devastator blasts the cave entrance open again, the falls are once again frozen!
*When the combined doohickeys zap Devastator back under control causing the Constructicons to disengage, the left arm transforms into Scrapper, while the right leg transforms into Bonecrusher.
*Third Devastator sequence: worst one yet! Scrapper's not really visible at all. ''Scavenger'' and Mixmaster form not only the legs but also half of Long Haul's bits (the same incomplete half that Long Haul himself formed the first time around!) Long Haul then ''splits in two'' to become the rest of Devastator's torso, including everything formed by Hook, ''and'' Bonecrusher and Scavenger's vehicle treads. Bonecrusher and ''Hook'' then form the arms. When he's finished forming, Devastator's torso plate is green instead of purple.
*Wheeljack's ears don't flash as he and Prime snicker at Chip's "Mr. Nobility" line.
*Though maintaining a consistent scale has [[Scale|never been a particularly important issue]] in Transformers fiction, this episode is a particularly notable offender, with Devastator's relative size fluctuating wildly: in some scenes Megatron appears to be almost half his height, whilst at other times the Autobots barely come up to the top of his ''foot''. In one scene, vehicle mode Bonecrusher seems to be almost as high as robot mode Megatron. Chip's scaling is also wildly variable: when Sunstreaker rescues him from the cave, he appears knee-high to the Autobots, but in the very next scene he has suddenly become as large as Wheeljack.

===Continuity errors===
*Megatron's assertion that the [[Earth's core]] is the richest source of energy in [[Milky Way|the galaxy]] is not even remotely true, even within the bizarre realm of the cartoon's physics. Heck, just within our own little [[Solar System]], the [[Sun]] is immeasurably more potent.
*Why the heck is Sunstreaker giving orders to a group that includes Prowl and Jazz?
*What kind of tree branch (growing out of a cliff, no less) is strong enough to support a falling Transformer?
*Jazz and Sunstreaker both use wrist-rockets to lower themselves into the canyon. According to the tech specs, that's really supposed to be Wheeljack's schtick.
*How does freezing the waterfall stop the whole river? Wouldn't it make more sense to break the dam that's diverting the river upstream?
*How did the Constructicons not notice the Autobots as they were placing the Dominator Disks on them?
*How ''did'' Megatron figure out the Autobots' strategy?
*Is Devastator ''really'' the only one who can stop the drill? Can't anybody just shoot the thing at its source?
*Why do the Constructicons all feel the need to simultaneously transform to robot mode (then have a little out-of-character heroic chat) when ordered to transform to Devastator? This is one of the episodes where they are assumed to need to be in vehicle mode—which they are already in—to combine.
*The whole countdown to the Earth's core, down to the ''second'', is patently ridiculous. The boundary of the Earth's core is not nearly so neatly defined. And penetrating it with such a comparatively tiny drill would be unlikely to shatter the planet.
*While counting down the time before the drill hits the Earth's core, Prime says 10 seconds, then Megatron says 1 second immediately thereafter. Somehow, 9 seconds disappear without any editing or time lapse. A lot more than 1 second elapses before Devastator destroys the drill.
*How did Devastator get all the way from near the earth's surface to near its core so quickly? How did he slow himself at the end to avoid crashing? And how did he withstand the heat down there, when his component parts [[Heavy Metal War|are not even very keen on ordinary lava]]?
**While we're at it, if everyone was so concerned that the drill was going to destroy Earth, then ''why'' would Devastator go ''underneath'' the drill to stop it? If they were cutting it so close, wasn't anybody in the ''least'' bit concerned that Devastator might break into the core on accident?
**Also, Devastator's strategy for stopping the drill shouldn't have worked. It should have impaled him. (Them? It? Ah, whatever.)
*Where did the fleeing Decepticons think they were ''going'', anyway?

===Trivia===
[[File:TheCore Jazz dominator disc.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|Look close. He's totally got the same black-eyes-beneath-the-visor thing that he had in "[[DIS-Integrated Circuits!]]"]]
*The Earth's core is believed to be around 3959 miles below the surface. So like, is the Decepticon's drill four thousand miles long? That means that before they started drilling, if the tip was touching the Earth's surface, the top would be ''in outer space''. How did no one ''notice'' that?
*After all the fuss the others go through while getting into the canyon (wrist rockets, grappling hook slides), Prowl just ''jumps'' down.
*When Megatron orders a retreat, cat mode Ravage flies off into the air alongside his comrades.
*Megatron stops Starscream from sniping the Autobots as Optimus Prime reels them up the cliff, arguing that killing six Autobots would be pointless since he plans on having Devastator destroy all the Autobots at the right moment. When that moment comes, there are still only (give or take) six Autobots to be had. Should have gone with your gut, Starscream.
*A deleted sequence near the end featuring the Constructicons is present in the [[dialogue script]]. It's a little hard to figure out what they would've been doing, but Mixmaster takes the "cackling witch" part of his Bio literally with the dropped line "Boil, boil, toil and trouble...acid eat and rocks go bubble!" - an intentional mangling of the witches' chant from ''Macbeth''.
*This episode is one of a trio, including "[[City of Steel (episode)|City of Steel]]" and "[[The Autobot Run]]", that was animated by the Korean studio [[AKOM]]. They are distinguished by simplistic art, prominent use of the Constructicons, surprisingly high frame rates, some Hanna-Barbara-style animation shortcuts, and various character model oddities, such as Optimus Prime's white backpack (which would show up again in "[[The Rebirth, Part 1|The Rebirth]]") and Chip Chase's blue jacket... not to mention a ''crapload'' of animation errors. Sheesh, AKOM.
*Optimus Prime's last lines in this episode - "The future is built on dreams" - is notable as [[Peter Cullen]]'s words of encouragement to a young fan of Optimus Prime in real life, dying of a terminal illness. To this day, when interviewed about this line, Cullen will invariably be moved to tears by its memory, such was his love for the child. A true man amongst men, if there ever was one.<ref>[https://www.ign.com/articles/2011/09/30/transformers-peter-cullen-life-as-optimus-prime IGN interview with Peter Cullen]</ref>

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Le forage'''" ("The Drilling")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
::*This episode is one of those that has never been released on DVD in French.
::*The Constructicon curse continues, as Mixmaster's first lines in vehicle mode are missing from the dub.
::*Sunstreaker's line at the river "Okay Autobots, move out!" is also missing.
::*[[Jacques Ferrière]] vanished again. He will be back next episode.

'''German'''
:*''Title (Generation 2 dub):'' "'''Erde in Gefahr'''" ("Earth in Danger")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[June 11]], [[1994]]

'''Italian'''
:*''Title (dub 1):'' "'''Al centro della Terra'''" ("To the Center of Earth")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

:*''Title (dub 2):'' "'''Il nucleo'''" ("The Core")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Devastor o Taose!'''" (デバスターを倒せ!, "Defeat Devastor!")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[June 20]], [[1986]]

'''Mandarin'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Dìqiú Héxīn '''" (地球核心, "The Core of the Earth")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Brazilian Portuguese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''O Núcleo'''" ("The Core")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Russian'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Yadro'''" (Ядро, "The Core" )
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

=== Toys inspired by this episode ===
* '''''[[The Transformers: Masterpiece|Masterpiece]]'' MP-52 [[Starscream (G1)/toys#MP52|Starscream Ver. 2.0]] (TakaraTomy, [[2021]])'''
:One of the accessories included with this version of Starscream is the drill arm he uses in this episode.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;{{w|LaserDisc}}
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] [[1995]] — ''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' — Megatron Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] [[1999]] — ''The Transformers'' — Decepticon Edition ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] [[2001]] — ''The Transformers'' — DVD Box 2 (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] [[2002]] — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1 ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2002 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1: Vol. 2 (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] [[2003]] — ''Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] [[2004]] — ''Transformers'' — Collection 2: Series 2.1 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] [[2006]] — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] [[2007]] — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of Italy.png|20px|Italy]] [[2008]] — ''Transformers'' — Volume 03: Stagione Due Parte Prima ([[Medianetwork Communication]]) — English and Italian audio. 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] [[2009]] — ''Transformers'' — Season Two: Part One (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Season Two, Volume One: 25th Anniversary Edition ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] [[2011]] — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Original Series (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] [[2014]] — ''The Transformers'' — Season Two, Volume One: 30th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2014 — ''Transformers'' — The Classic Animated Series (Metrodome)

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lE-h4XZtVwu1Fx1n2IuRcK7AbkOrWusF/view?usp=drive_link Partial episode script]
*[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1p5SFRknSi5bq1RjbkjCcXIlut9TCyh56/view?usp=drive_link Episode dialogue script]
*[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Khiq3GAxN5-ZqjJUJIYt04VrU2GBN3uU/view?usp=drive_link Model sheets and background layouts]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Core}}
[[Category:The Transformers episodes]]
[[Category:Generation 2 episodes]]

The Core

2025-03-22T16:56:08Z

Diesel Prime: /* Trivia */

{{disambig3|Core}}
{{episode
|series=G1toon
|ep=28
|series2=SRLFtoon
|ep2=49
|prev2=Cosmic Rust (episode)
|next2=Blaster Blues
|series3=''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (cartoon)|Transformers: Generation 2]]''
|ep3=7
|prev3=The Autobot Run
|next3=Dinobot Island, Part 1
|image=TheCore Devastator zapped.jpg
|caption=
|title="The Core"
|season=2
|season ep=12
|production code=#700-27
|airdate=[[October 29]], 1985
|written by=[[Dennis Marks]]
|animation studio=[[AKOM]]
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
|video=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEXja5bHm30
|videosite=YouTube
}}
'''Megatron tries to drill his way to the center to the Earth, while the Autobots take control of Devastator with mind-controlling Dominator Disks.'''

==Synopsis==
[[File:Coredevastatorattacks.jpg|left|thumb|Bowling for Autobots]]
At an underground cavern near a waterfall, the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] are digging with a massive drill. However, the rock they're drilling through breaks, and only some quick work on [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]]'s part plugs it up. [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] orders Mixmaster to look over [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]]'s sensory equipment, while [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] does his daily whine-about-Megatron's-nefarious-plan bit. Megatron counters that if they manage to tap into the [[Earth's core|Earth's molten core]], it will give the [[Decepticon]]s geothermal energy, a limitless power source. Starscream counters that if they breach the core, the Earth runs the risk of exploding. However, Megatron doesn't care: he's placed a [[space bridge]] near the drilling site, which will take the Decepticons to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] if the Earth's stability should be threatened.

[[File:Coreautobotsinnet.jpg|thumb|This is the worst tent ever!]]
Meanwhile, [[Jazz (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Jazz]], [[Prowl (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Prowl]], [[Gears (G1)|Gears]], [[Mirage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Mirage]], and [[Sunstreaker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sunstreaker]] are driving around in that general area, when Sunstreaker realizes that there should be a river where they're driving through. The Autobots head to investigate, and see Mixmaster and Scavenger. The Autobots [[Transformation|transform]] to attack, only to see that the Constructicons have disappeared, and to fail to notice [[Laserbeak (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Laserbeak]] above them. Informed by [[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]], Megatron orders the Constructicons to destroy the Autobots and form [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]. The Decepticon [[combiner]] knocks the Autobots off the cliff, but Mirage goes invisible on them. He remains undetected as Devastator attacks the others, and finds the drill. As Mirage rejoins the group, Jazz does a [[sound and light show]] which distracts Devastator while Mirage and Sunstreaker lasso his legs with a rope, allowing the Autobots to escape.

[[File:Coredevastator&prime.jpg|left|thumb|Devastator has no idea how to start transforming 20th Anniversary Prime.]]
At the [[Ark (G1)|Autobot base]], the Autobots use [[Teletraan I]] to calculate what will happen if the drill hits the Earth's core. The result will be total annihilation, but the Autobots have little hope of defeating the Decepticons with Devastator. [[Wheeljack (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Wheeljack]] and [[Chip Chase]] present [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] with their new [[dominator disk]]s, which will be placed on the individual Constructicons and take control of them when they form Devastator. Convinced, Optimus Prime orders a commando team to plant the disks on the Constructicons. Heading for the drilling site, [[Ironhide (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ironhide]] freezes the falls, causing the drill to heat up. [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] orders the Constructicons to the surface, during which the Autobots plant a disk on each Constructicon. As the commandos are pulled out, Starscream has them dead to rights, but Megatron orders him to let them go, saying that he knows of their plan to control Devastator. As Megatron positions the Decepticons, he orders the Decepticons to attack. The Decepticons fire on the still moving Autobots, who break formation, as the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]] transform to [[bring the rain]] on the Autobots. Megatron orders the Constructicons to form Devastator, who grabs Prime. Wheeljack activates the disks and Optimus orders Devastator to release him and attack the Decepticons. Devastator follows the Autobot leader's orders. Megatron orders the Decepticons to retreat to the cave and Devastator seals them in. Optimus orders the Autobots to break off, as they can now finish the Decepticons at their leisure.

[[File:Corediagramscene.jpg|thumb|The Earth consists of a crust, the mantle, the outer core, the inner core, the inner inner core, the inner inner inner core, the...]]
Within the caverns, Starscream whines about being trapped, not having enough water to keep drilling, and so on. However, Megatron reveals that this was all part of his plan: he has a device that will override the dominator disks and stored enough water to continue drilling for some time. He just didn't tell Starscream because he's a terrible actor. At the Autobot base, the Constructicons are helping with repairs, when an earthquake hits. Realizing that the Decepticons are still drilling, the Autobots head to put them out of commission. However, Megatron is aware of their coming, watching them through the Constructicons' eyes. The Autobots and Devastator head for the cave, and Devastator is set to destroy it, at which point Megatron uses his control switch to deactivate the disks. Devastator begins attacking the Autobots, so Wheeljack tries to boost power to the disks. Unfortunately, this fries Devastator's [[Circuit (circuit)|logic circuits]] and sends him into a killing frenzy, attacking both Autobot and Decepticon alike.

[[File:Coremegs&wheeljack.jpg|left|thumb|Take off your clothes and come on in!]]
Finally, the drill hits the core and the cave—and the earth itself—begin to come apart. Unfortunately, Devastator's rampage has damaged the drill's controls. Megatron orders the Decepticons to the space bridge, but Devastator damages it too. Optimus convinces Megatron to give his control switch to Wheeljack, who uses it to deactivate the disks and bring Devastator back to normal. Devastator then heads to destroy the drill, while the Decepticons flee for their [[Spark|lives]]. Devastator succeeds, but is surprised by Megatron's absence. Chip tells Devastator that he ran, but Devastator believes that "Noble Megatron" merely left to plan their next attack and leaves (he really is as dumb as a post). Chip is somewhat saddened, as he was hoping that Devastator would join the Autobots. Optimus tells him that the future is built on dreams and not to let go of his.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Gears (G1)|Gears]] (8)
*[[Jazz (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Jazz]] (9)
*[[Sunstreaker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sunstreaker]] (10)
*[[Prowl (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Prowl]] (11)
*[[Mirage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Mirage]] (12)
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] (17)
*[[Wheeljack (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Wheeljack]] (19)
*[[Ironhide (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ironhide]] (20)
*[[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] (24)
*[[Sideswipe (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sideswipe]] (25)
*[[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]] (26)
|c2=
*[[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (1)
*[[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (2)
*[[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (3)
*[[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (4)
*[[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (5)
*[[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (6)
*[[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] (7)
*[[Laserbeak (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Laserbeak]] (13)
*[[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] (14)
*[[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (15)
*[[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (16)
*[[Thundercracker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Thundercracker]] (21)
*[[Skywarp (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Skywarp]] (22)
*[[Ravage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ravage]] (23)
|c3=
*[[Chip Chase]] (18)
}}

==Quotes==
"Autobots, move out!"
:—'''Sunstreaker''', thinking he outranks Jazz and Prowl.

"It's like shooting [[dynametal duck]]s in a beryllium barrel."
:—'''Starscream''' wonders if they store [[beryllium baloney]] in beryllium barrels.

"Traitor!"
:—'''Starscream''' to Megatron. No, you read that right.

"DEVASTATOR! DEVASTATOR! HEEEEELP!!!!"
:—'''Starscream''' running and waving his arms at Devastator like an idiot.

"I do this only for the benefit of my Decepticons. It grieves me that you may also profit."
:—'''Megatron''', agreeing to ally with the Autobots and lying through his teeth (he's doing it to save his own chassis).

"What's the matter, Chip?" 
"I guess I was hoping Devastator might join the Autobots for good, but that's probably just a dumb old dream." 
"Hang on to your dreams, Chip. The future is built on dreams. Hang on."
:—'''Optimus Prime''' gives '''Chip Chase''' valuable words to live by.

==Notes==
===Production information===
* First draft script: 21st December 1984
* Dialogue recording: 28th January 1985

===Continuity notes===
[[File:TheCore HookfixesJazz.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
[[File:Sound and light show.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
*Devastator wants to squash the Autobots like "[[mechano-ants]]".
*Megatron takes a jab at Starscream's acting abilities, which we witnessed just [[A Prime Problem|one episode ago]]. He's no [[Shia LaBeouf|Beef]], but hey, he's [[Megatron's Master Plan, Part 2|just starting]] [[Starscream's Ghost|his career]] at this point.
*Megatron specifically says Starscream's acting wouldn't fool a "[[Saturn]]ian simpleton". As it would turn out in "[[The God Gambit]]", the beings that on live on Saturn's moon [[Titan (moon)|Titan]] ''were'' kinda dumb.
*Hook can "perform flawlessly to within one five hundred thousandth of a [[Units of length|Cybertronic mini-inch]]".
*Gadgets and powers:
**Everyone's arms are completely hollow in this episode. One character after the next retracts their hands into their wrists:
***Starscream reveals an improbably large drill in place of his retracted hand.
***Mirage has a tow cable in his wrist.
***Ironhide retracts his hands to fire an improbably huge torrent of blue liquid that freezes the waterfall.
***Sunstreaker, Jazz, and Wheeljack all retract their hands and replace them with wrist-rockets. Wheeljack is ''supposed'' to be able to do this according to his tech spec; the ability appeared very briefly in "[[The Autobot Run]]", and he also flew ''without'' retracting his hands in "[[A Plague of Insecticons]]" and "[[S.O.S. Dinobots]]".)
***Jazz also has a grappling hook/tow line. Of all these gimmicks, this is the only one that's actually appeared before, way back in "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 2]]" and [[More than Meets the Eye, Part 3|Part 3]].
**Jazz also uses his standard sound & light show. It's... not as impressive [[The Immobilizer|as it could be]].
**Hook uses his crane mode hook as a welding tip.
**Optimus Prime's trailer has a crane and a pyramid-shaped cage to lift the five Autobots.
**Starscream has a hand-held rifle which he attempts to use on the retreating Autobots after they place Dominator Disks on Devastator.
**Bluestreak's missiles break apart into shards after launch.
*For the first and only time in the series, Chip appears but Spike doesn't.
*The Autobots would finally have a combiner team to call their own in "[[The Key to Vector Sigma, Part 2]]".

===Real-world references===
*''[[Star Wars (franchise)|Star Wars]]'' sound effects:
**As often happens, Laserbeak gets the [[TIE Fighter]] engine sound just after he flies over the Autobots.

===Animation and technical errors===
This being one of the Season 2 AKOM episodes, many characters have unusual color schemes which persist through the entire episode. This includes:
[[File:TheCore Chip in Wheeljack.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
[[File:TheCore ConstructiconsMegatronPoint.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|Find the artists responsible for this color change, and DESTROY THEM!]]
*Megatron's gun barrel is dark gray.
*Gears' truck mode is red with blue fenders instead of blue with a red camper top. His white robot bits are colored light gray.
*Prowl is a light gray instead of white.
*Optimus Prime's backpack is white instead of red.
*Chip has a blue jacket instead of brown. This is ''good'', though. It means that, unlike a lot of cartoon humans, he actually changes clothes.
*The circle on Bumblebee's back is dark gray instead of yellow.

Errors not attributable to model sheets include:
*It seems unlikely that the metal ring surrounding the drill would fracture in exactly the same way as the rock surrounding it.
*Hook's first transformation is bizarre. His crane mode cab just kind of disappears into his stomach... only to reappear as his foot a second later.
*Scavenger's voice gives the "emergency!" lines that follow, but Scrapper is shown. It's not clear from the animation who's actually speaking, though.
*[[Michael Bell]]'s performance of Scrapper is noticeably higher-pitched and more manic than usual in this episode. He's cranked Scrapper's usual vocal "scratchiness" up a bit too, at times adding a protracted rasp between sentences.
*When the Constructicons are all shown zapping the fissure shut, all the other cracks are gone.
*Subsequent shots of the drill show no trace of the Constructicons' ad hoc ground repairs. Did they pave them over??
*Missing Seeker insignia:
**When he's first seen sitting at the console, Starscream is missing the Decepticon emblems on his wings.
**Starscream has only one wing emblem as he watches Megatron walk through the holographic rock wall.
**The Seekers are all missing their wing emblems as the Decepticons launch their counterattack on the approaching Autobots in the canyon.
**Starscream's missing his wing emblems yet again as he turns and says "You thought of everything".
**Starscream's got only one emblem as he runs crying to Devastator for help. Seriously, how hard is it to keep track of two emblems?
*It's not indisputably an error, but Starscream's hand makes none of the typical whirring/sliding noises as he retracts it and replaces it with the drill (which, holy cow, where does he ''keep'' that thing?)
*The animation of the Autobots driving up the slope out of the riverbed is crude and mistimed—Mirage drives all the way into the slope before he tilts to start climbing it. The other Autobots all tilt up as a group, even though they're in a line.
*Laserbeak's missing his transformation sound as he returns to Soundwave's chest compartment after sighting the Autobots.
*As Laserbeak plays back the Autobots' words, a second voice seems to be echoing Jazz's "Constructicons!"
*As the Constructicons all transform to [[alternate mode|vehicle mode]], both Hook and Mixmaster suffer from their feet failing to become the corresponding part of their vehicle modes. All of the Constructicons have completely changed positions from where they were standing in the preceding shot.
*The boulder that Devastator uses against the Autobots is never seen to hit bottom.
*As usual, Devastator's combination sequence is screwed up. In addition to lacking any transformation noise, Long Haul only forms about half of his actual contribution, with Hook getting the rest. At least they got the other four guys correct!
*Three of the Constructicons are shown monitoring the drill, while at the same time Devastator is outside fighting the rest of the Autobots. ([[:File:Megatronffod.jpg|More than six]] [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]]? [[Personal canon|Madness!]]) In the same scene, Starscream's missing one of his wing emblems yet again.
*Both Mirage and Sunstreaker drive ''through'' the tow line as they wrap it around Devastator's feet. As Devastator falls from their snare, he has two eyes instead of his usual visor.
*Coloring errors:
**Wheeljack has some strange white areas on his head when he's first seen inside Autobot Headquarters.
**Wheeljack's roof is orange instead of white as Chip leans out his window.
**Skywarp and Starscream both have yellow nosecones as they transform back into [[robot mode]] en route to the space bridge.
**Once the Autobots subjugate Devastator, he's seen swatting Skywarp, but the next shot is of Thundercracker spinning out of control. Then Thundercracker immediately flies back in ''again'' and is swatted off, screaming in Starscream's voice. The shot following that has Skywarp standing with the other Decepticons.
**Megatron has a red Decepticon symbol when he orders the Constructicons to stop the drill.
*The center line on Scrapper's face mask disappears as he orders the Constructicons to the surface.
*The Constructicons' elevator isn't animated, making them appear to just levitate into the air in vehicle mode. A whirring effects noise, and a lack of glow effects, makes it seem that this was ''not'' supposed to be the levitation beam used earlier by Starscream and Megatron. A second later, however, they ''do'' drive off the levitation beam, complete with glow effect.
*There is ''no way'' Ironhide has room for that much of the water-freezing liquid inside him.
*There's an existing Dominator Disk on Scrapper upon which Prowl sticks another one.
*Appearing/disappearing Autobots:
**Ironhide is shown retreating into the cage at the bottom of the cliff, even though he was never shown to have left the top of the cliff. He seems to have taken Sunstreaker's place. As the cage begins to rise, Sunstreaker reappears (with a strangely miscolored or off-model head), but Jazz is missing.
**The roster of Autobots on the return mission to the cave fluctuates all over the place. Prowl, Jazz, Ironhide and Sideswipe are shown leaving Autobot HQ (and Devastator apparently just sits there while the Autobots move out!) When they arrive at the cave, Hound and Wheeljack have replaced Prowl and Ironhide. After Chip is trapped in the cave, Ratchet shows up among Devastator's victims. After the commercial break, Ironhide is back with the group. As the earthquakes begin, Sunstreaker shows up out of nowhere to rescue Chip.
*Five Autobots fit inside Prime's pyramid cage, which then fits inside his trailer. Huge trailer, or tiny Autobots?
*As he ejects Ravage, the inside of Soundwave's chest compartment is bright yellow.
*Devastator's second combination sequence contains the same visual errors as the first one; plus, Hook's mass includes Bonecrusher's scoop.
*As Devastator blasts the Decepticons' cave shut, the frozen falls spontaneously unfreeze for no apparent reason.
*Bumblebee is with the cheering Autobots as Devastator flies out of the canyon, despite not being seen anywhere else in the episode.
*Again, the metal in Autobot Headquarters splits as though it were rock.
*After Hook repairs Jazz, he drives over to Devastator and transforms into ''nothing but his head''.
*When Devastator blasts the cave entrance open again, the falls are once again frozen!
*When the combined doohickeys zap Devastator back under control causing the Constructicons to disengage, the left arm transforms into Scrapper, while the right leg transforms into Bonecrusher.
*Third Devastator sequence: worst one yet! Scrapper's not really visible at all. ''Scavenger'' and Mixmaster form not only the legs but also half of Long Haul's bits (the same incomplete half that Long Haul himself formed the first time around!) Long Haul then ''splits in two'' to become the rest of Devastator's torso, including everything formed by Hook, ''and'' Bonecrusher and Scavenger's vehicle treads. Bonecrusher and ''Hook'' then form the arms. When he's finished forming, Devastator's torso plate is green instead of purple.
*Wheeljack's ears don't flash as he and Prime snicker at Chip's "Mr. Nobility" line.
*Though maintaining a consistent scale has [[Scale|never been a particularly important issue]] in Transformers fiction, this episode is a particularly notable offender, with Devastator's relative size fluctuating wildly: in some scenes Megatron appears to be almost half his height, whilst at other times the Autobots barely come up to the top of his ''foot''. In one scene, vehicle mode Bonecrusher seems to be almost as high as robot mode Megatron. Chip's scaling is also wildly variable: when Sunstreaker rescues him from the cave, he appears knee-high to the Autobots, but in the very next scene he has suddenly become as large as Wheeljack.

===Continuity errors===
*Megatron's assertion that the [[Earth's core]] is the richest source of energy in [[Milky Way|the galaxy]] is not even remotely true, even within the bizarre realm of the cartoon's physics. Heck, just within our own little [[Solar System]], the [[Sun]] is immeasurably more potent.
*Why the heck is Sunstreaker giving orders to a group that includes Prowl and Jazz?
*What kind of tree branch (growing out of a cliff, no less) is strong enough to support a falling Transformer?
*Jazz and Sunstreaker both use wrist-rockets to lower themselves into the canyon. According to the tech specs, that's really supposed to be Wheeljack's schtick.
*How does freezing the waterfall stop the whole river? Wouldn't it make more sense to break the dam that's diverting the river upstream?
*How did the Constructicons not notice the Autobots as they were placing the Dominator Disks on them?
*How ''did'' Megatron figure out the Autobots' strategy?
*Is Devastator ''really'' the only one who can stop the drill? Can't anybody just shoot the thing at its source?
*Why do the Constructicons all feel the need to simultaneously transform to robot mode (then have a little out-of-character heroic chat) when ordered to transform to Devastator? This is one of the episodes where they are assumed to need to be in vehicle mode—which they are already in—to combine.
*The whole countdown to the Earth's core, down to the ''second'', is patently ridiculous. The boundary of the Earth's core is not nearly so neatly defined. And penetrating it with such a comparatively tiny drill would be unlikely to shatter the planet.
*While counting down the time before the drill hits the Earth's core, Prime says 10 seconds, then Megatron says 1 second immediately thereafter. Somehow, 9 seconds disappear without any editing or time lapse. A lot more than 1 second elapses before Devastator destroys the drill.
*How did Devastator get all the way from near the earth's surface to near its core so quickly? How did he slow himself at the end to avoid crashing? And how did he withstand the heat down there, when his component parts [[Heavy Metal War|are not even very keen on ordinary lava]]?
**While we're at it, if everyone was so concerned that the drill was going to destroy Earth, then ''why'' would Devastator go ''underneath'' the drill to stop it? If they were cutting it so close, wasn't anybody in the ''least'' bit concerned that Devastator might break into the core on accident?
**Also, Devastator's strategy for stopping the drill shouldn't have worked. It should have impaled him. (Them? It? Ah, whatever.)
*Where did the fleeing Decepticons think they were ''going'', anyway?

===Trivia===
[[File:TheCore Jazz dominator disc.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|Look close. He's totally got the same black-eyes-beneath-the-visor thing that he had in "[[DIS-Integrated Circuits!]]"]]
*Prime sure goes along with the notion of enslaving one of his enemies pretty readily, huh? What happened to his ol' "Freedom is the Right of All Sentient Beings" schtick?
*Then again, it is established that the Constructicons are already under mind control since Megatron used the Robosmasher to reprogram them from good to evil. So the Autobots are technically Mind-controlling mind-controlled bots to essentially act more like their old selves (Is this a case where two wrongs do in fact make a right?). Or possibly even trying to test possible permanent fixes for the Robosmasher. It's too bad Omega couldn’t enjoy some time with his old friends.
*The Earth's core is believed to be around 3959 miles below the surface. So like, is the Decepticon's drill four thousand miles long? That means that before they started drilling, if the tip was touching the Earth's surface, the top would be ''in outer space''. How did no one ''notice'' that?
*After all the fuss the others go through while getting into the canyon (wrist rockets, grappling hook slides), Prowl just ''jumps'' down.
*Jazz skips his dominator disk onto Scavenger, like skipping a rock on water. Stylish!
*When Megatron orders a retreat, cat mode Ravage flies off into the air alongside his comrades.
*Megatron stops Starscream from sniping the Autobots as Optimus Prime reels them up the cliff, arguing that killing six Autobots would be pointless since he plans on having Devastator destroy all the Autobots at the right moment. When that moment comes, there are still only (give or take) six Autobots to be had. Should have gone with your gut, Starscream.
*A deleted sequence near the end featuring the Constructicons is present in the [[dialogue script]]. It's a little hard to figure out what they would've been doing, but Mixmaster takes the "cackling witch" part of his Bio literally with the dropped line "Boil, boil, toil and trouble...acid eat and rocks go bubble!" - an intentional mangling of the witches' chant from ''Macbeth''.
*This episode is one of a trio, including "[[City of Steel (episode)|City of Steel]]" and "[[The Autobot Run]]", that was animated by the Korean studio [[AKOM]]. They are distinguished by simplistic art, prominent use of the Constructicons, surprisingly high frame rates, some Hanna-Barbara-style animation shortcuts, and various character model oddities, such as Optimus Prime's white backpack (which would show up again in "[[The Rebirth, Part 1|The Rebirth]]") and Chip Chase's blue jacket... not to mention a ''crapload'' of animation errors. Sheesh, AKOM.
*Optimus Prime's last lines in this episode - "The future is built on dreams" - is notable as [[Peter Cullen]]'s words of encouragement to a young fan of Optimus Prime in real life, dying of a terminal illness. To this day, when interviewed about this line, Cullen will invariably be moved to tears by its memory, such was his love for the child. A true man amongst men, if there ever was one.<ref>[https://www.ign.com/articles/2011/09/30/transformers-peter-cullen-life-as-optimus-prime IGN interview with Peter Cullen]</ref>

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Le forage'''" ("The Drilling")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
::*This episode is one of those that has never been released on DVD in French.
::*The Constructicon curse continues, as Mixmaster's first lines in vehicle mode are missing from the dub.
::*Sunstreaker's line at the river "Okay Autobots, move out!" is also missing.
::*[[Jacques Ferrière]] vanished again. He will be back next episode.

'''German'''
:*''Title (Generation 2 dub):'' "'''Erde in Gefahr'''" ("Earth in Danger")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[June 11]], [[1994]]

'''Italian'''
:*''Title (dub 1):'' "'''Al centro della Terra'''" ("To the Center of Earth")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

:*''Title (dub 2):'' "'''Il nucleo'''" ("The Core")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Devastor o Taose!'''" (デバスターを倒せ!, "Defeat Devastor!")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[June 20]], [[1986]]

'''Mandarin'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Dìqiú Héxīn '''" (地球核心, "The Core of the Earth")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Brazilian Portuguese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''O Núcleo'''" ("The Core")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Russian'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Yadro'''" (Ядро, "The Core" )
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

=== Toys inspired by this episode ===
* '''''[[The Transformers: Masterpiece|Masterpiece]]'' MP-52 [[Starscream (G1)/toys#MP52|Starscream Ver. 2.0]] (TakaraTomy, [[2021]])'''
:One of the accessories included with this version of Starscream is the drill arm he uses in this episode.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;{{w|LaserDisc}}
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] [[1995]] — ''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' — Megatron Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] [[1999]] — ''The Transformers'' — Decepticon Edition ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] [[2001]] — ''The Transformers'' — DVD Box 2 (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] [[2002]] — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1 ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2002 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1: Vol. 2 (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] [[2003]] — ''Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] [[2004]] — ''Transformers'' — Collection 2: Series 2.1 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] [[2006]] — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] [[2007]] — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of Italy.png|20px|Italy]] [[2008]] — ''Transformers'' — Volume 03: Stagione Due Parte Prima ([[Medianetwork Communication]]) — English and Italian audio. 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] [[2009]] — ''Transformers'' — Season Two: Part One (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Season Two, Volume One: 25th Anniversary Edition ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] [[2011]] — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Original Series (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] [[2014]] — ''The Transformers'' — Season Two, Volume One: 30th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2014 — ''Transformers'' — The Classic Animated Series (Metrodome)

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lE-h4XZtVwu1Fx1n2IuRcK7AbkOrWusF/view?usp=drive_link Partial episode script]
*[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1p5SFRknSi5bq1RjbkjCcXIlut9TCyh56/view?usp=drive_link Episode dialogue script]
*[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Khiq3GAxN5-ZqjJUJIYt04VrU2GBN3uU/view?usp=drive_link Model sheets and background layouts]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Core}}
[[Category:The Transformers episodes]]
[[Category:Generation 2 episodes]]