Combiner

2019-03-19T17:23:37Z

Jedicrippler: Corrected "Superior" to "Superion"

[[File:studioox combiners whatif.jpg|upright=2.2|thumb|Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer.]]
{{quote|Decepticons are '''obsessed''' with combining. Put two of 'em in a room and within seconds one will be standing on the other's shoulders. '''Fact.'''|[[Swerve (G1)|Swerve]]|"[[The Waiting Game]]"}}

A '''combiner''' (sometimes capitalized, sometimes not) is a group of Transformers that assemble and combine their bodies into a single machine, or that composite machine itself. Most combiners form a larger Super Robot with its own unique personality (a character in its own right), but other varieties of combiner exist, forming vehicles, weapons, or other items. Combiners tend to be considerably larger and more powerful than the average Transformer, equivalent to strategic-grade weapons.

There are a number of combiner-related terms that can be easy to mix up, partially because some of them are used interchangeably. Additionally, most of them have no formal definition and thus may be used differently by different fans. Consequently, most of the discussion which follows should not be taken as the word of [[Primus]], but as a rough description of common usage.

==Terms for combiners==
[[File:Combiner logo.jpg|upright=1.4|thumb|Worst...logo...ever.]]
{{quote|Wreckers: '''combine'''! (''beat'') Well, ''I'' thought it was funny.|[[Rotorstorm (G1)|Rotorstorm]]|"[[Last Stand of the Wreckers issue 3|Last Stand of the Wreckers #3]]"}}
'''Combiner''': As above, a member of a group of Transformers who assemble into a composite form. Also refers to that composite form itself. This is the most general term for all combining Transformers, and the most common term that has been used by Hasbro in an official capacity, starting with the ''[[Micromaster]] Combiners'' from 1990 (with the exception of the more limited "special teams" and a recent official use of the term "gestalt"), having even appeared with its own logo on the [[Transformers: Robots in Disguise (2001 toyline)|2001 ''Robots in Disguise'' toyline]] packaging.

[[File:DevastatorDissectionDreamwave.jpg|upright=1.4|thumb|What, no Terror Claws? No Cranium Regulation Unit? What kind of lame dissection is this?!]]
'''Gestalt''': Generally only a "big robot" combiner with an emergent personality, but usage is imprecise. The term was coined by fans, and there was never consensus on how broadly it could be applied; for example, if [[Squawkbox]] would fall under the category or not. The term was and remains quite popular in the fandom, and it eventually gained official use as well. It's unclear when or how it first arose, but it is commonly understood to refer to {{w|gestalt psychology}}, wherein the word roughly means a thing that is greater than or different from the sum of its parts. ''(For more on its origin and meaning, see [[#Notes|Notes]].)'' It remained firmly in realm of [[fanon]] for years, though its appearance in some ''[[Transformers: Energon (franchise)|Energon]]'' design sketches showed that the term had caught on with Hasbro designers. Then in 2007, "gestalt" [[Canonizing|made its first official appearance]] in the bio of the ''[[Titanium Series]]'' [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] toy, followed in the same year by the ''[[Spotlight: Optimus Prime]]'' comic (referring to [[Monstructor (G1)|Monstructor]]), and again in 2009 in the "[[First (and Second) in Flight]]" comic wherein [[Perceptor (Animated)|Perceptor]] describes [[Jetfire (Animated)|Jetfire's]] & [[Jetstorm (Animated)|Jetstorm's]] combination into [[Safeguard (Animated)|Safeguard]] as a sort of "gestalt powerlink".

'''Scramble City combiner''': A specific type of [[The Transformers (toyline)|Generation 1]] giant gestalt that follows the five-member design featured in the Japanese [[Scramble City (toyline)|''Scramble City'' toyline]]. The team leader is larger than the other members and forms the main body of the combiner, while the others are smaller and form the limbs. The limbs are interchangeable, although there is always a generally-accepted “normal” formation. Further, the limbs are interchangeable from one Scramble City-style combiner to another, making for a large number of bizarre combinations. (See [[Abomenaticus]], [[Cybertron Super Scramble]], [[Comperian]], [[Destron Super Scramble]], and [[Scramble 7]].) Limbs are also able to attach to and augment Metroplex & Metrotitan (see "Notes" below). Note that this term is purely descriptive rather than being a proper name.

'''Special Team''': A synonym for Scramble City-style combiner. When the ''Scramble City'' toys were marketed in Europe they were referred to as Special Teams, and the term even appeared in the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|UK comic book]] series. The term was used in some marketing materials in the US, such as packing lists for the toy [[Case|case assortments]], but never appeared in US fiction until the [[Transformers: The Ultimate Guide|''Ultimate Guide'']] was published in 2004. It was also used as the name for a [[Target]] [[exclusive]] five-pack of [[redeco]]s of ''[[Transformers: Cybertron (toyline)|Cybertron]]'' [[Legends Class (2005)|Legends]] toys released under the ''[[Transformers: Universe (2008 toyline)|Universe]]'' banner, "Special Team Leaders". Ironically, none of these toys were actually ''combiners''—the term simply referred to the ''characters'', since the redecos were [[homage]]s to the leaders of Generation 1 combiner teams, four of which were Scramble City-style combiners.

'''Super Robot''': A robot which is formed through the combination of two or more Transformers. Powered-up [[robot mode]]s composed of only one Transformer who combines with some of their own accessories are often also referred to as Super Robots, such as [[Powermaster]] [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] or the incarnations of Prime from ''Robots in Disguise'' and all three ''[[Unicron Trilogy]]'' series. It is probably safe to informally refer to any such mode as a Super Robot (thus including, say, G1 [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] and ''Energon'' [[Landmine (Energon)|Landmine]]). Note that this means Super Robots are not always combiners and do not have to have their own personality. Rather, Super Robot and combiner are two different categories of Transformer which ''sometimes'' overlap. A one-robot Super Robot may also be referred to as that robot's [[Super Mode]].

'''Fusilateral quintrocombiner''': Coined by [[Simon Furman]] in [[Swarm (issue)|issue 9]] of the [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|''Generation 2'' comic]] to refer to the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]]. It presumably is meant to refer to all the Scramble City-style teams except possibly the Seacons, as their combined forms consist of six robots (not five, so they could possibly be fusilateral hexocombiners I guess...). It may also apply to the Predacons, but it doesn't matter because nobody uses this term anyway.

'''Amalgam model''': Yet another obscure term for combiners first used by Simon Furman via [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] in the "[[Devastation Derby!]]" story in the UK comic books.

==Types of combiner==
As mentioned above, most combiners form a super robot. However, there are many other types of combining in the Transformers multiverse.

In the ''Energon'' franchise, most of the Autobot characters were able to combine with each other in pairs much like ''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: Victory (franchise)|Victory]]'''s [[Multiforce]]. These combined forms can probably be considered Super Robots. The combined form was simply controlled by whichever Autobot was "on top". Make whatever jokes you will.

Generation 1 contains many examples of combined [[alternate mode]]s, including [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]], [[Dreadwing (G1)|Dreadwing]], [[Big Powered]], the [[Triple Combination Battlestar Attack|Battlestar]], and the [[Targetmaster (technology)|Double Targetmasters]].

The [[Micromaster Combiner]]s are made up of Transformers whose altmodes combine into vehicles, with one partner being the front and another the rear. The combined forms do not have specific names. Thanks to the generic peg-and-socket connection method used, any two Micromaster combiners can be linked (though some such as the dump truck/space shuttle combo may attract comment). These altmode combiners should not be confused with the Micromaster "Sixcombiners", six-robot teams who combine to form a Super Robot.

The [[Unicron Trilogy]]'s [[Mini-Con]]s brought to the fiction combined weapon modes, like the [[Star Saber (Armada)|Star Saber]] & [[Vorpal Saber]] [[sword]]s, [[Requiem Blaster (Armada)|Requiem Blaster]] cannon, and [[Skyboom (Armada)|Skyboom]] shield.

The [[Power Core Combiners]] use a different type of combining method. Instead of using 5 robots, the combined final robot is formed by one "Commander" type robot, and 4 different drones that form the arms and legs.

==Not combiners==
Not all cases of multiple things attaching to each other are combiners. As mentioned above, many Super Robots—which are formed through a conglomeration of parts—are not combiners. [[Landmine (Energon)|''Energon'' Landmine]], for example.

A similar case can be found in [[multi-component Transformer|Transformers who have two or more "components" which combine into a single entity]]. [[Sky Lynx (G1)|G1 Sky Lynx]] has lynx and dino-bird components, [[Omega Supreme (G1)|G1 Omega Supreme]] has tank, base, and rocket components, and [[Magmatron]] has three dinosaur components. However, all of these components are considered to be "part of" the overall Transformer, even through they can act independently. The [[Duocon]]s are another case of this sort. All of these examples are ''not'' combiners because there is only ''one'' Transformer involved in each of them, regardless of how many bodies that Transformer may simultaneously operate. Such robots are occasionally referred to as "Reverse Combiners" within the fandom.

(Confusing things further are the comics which treated Sky Lynx and the Duocons as triple changers, able to transform between the combined mode and the ones for individual components without any parts separating off.)

Sometimes a smaller Transformer will attach to and enhance a larger Transformer in some way. This is the case when Mini-Cons powerlink with bulks, as well as with [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] partners like [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], [[Powermaster]]s/[[Godmaster (lifeform)|Godmaster]]s, [[Kiss Player]]s, and [[Breastforce]] members. Although these examples do include more than one Transformer (or a Transformer and a fleshling), they are not considered "combiners". The simplest justification for this is that, in these cases, the "combined" form is almost exactly the same in appearance as the non-combined form.

And sometimes [[Beast (G1)|things just combine for no real reason at all. Just deal with it. We hate it, oh God yes, but there it is. We're sorry.]]

==Fiction==
===Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics===
{{noteukonly}}
[[File:Constructiconsbornmarvel.jpg|left|upright=1.1|thumb|"...Well, at least our origin is consistent this time."]]
The [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]]s were designed and built by [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]] as the first combiner team. They were given life through [[Matrix of Leadership|Creation Matrix]] energy stored in [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]]'s head. The Constructicons had considerable difficulty coordinating together as Devastator in their first mission. {{storylink|The Next Best Thing to Being There!}}

[[File:Superion drawing devastation derby.jpg|thumb|upright=0.85]]
''The [[Special Teams]] were first conceived within [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]]'s mind shortly after the human had relinquished control of the Creation Matrix to Optimus Prime. Shockwave was able to view this data remotely and prepare for their development.'' {{storylink|Second Generation!}}

Optimus Prime assigned a secret project to the architect [[Grapple (G1)|Grapple]], {{storylink|Rock and Roll-Out!}} which was revealed as [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]], who was able to combine his rocket and tank modules into one mighty robot. This form of combination was considered inadequate next to the combination of the six Constructicon warriors, so the Autobots decided to learn how to utilize the more advanced technology. They staged an attack on a Decepticon coal mining base which drew out the Constructions. When they combined, [[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Bumblebee]] was there recording their transformation pattern. {{storylink|Command Performances!}} [[File:Menasor superion heavy traffic.jpg|thumb|left]] They used this information to construct the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]]. Unfortunately, they were forced to go on their first mission with only [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]]'s personality programming completed, leaving the rest of the team, and [[Superion (G1)|Superion]], rather indifferent towards [[human]] casualties. {{storylink|Aerialbots over America!}} After their first mission proved a failure, Optimus Prime had [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] wipe their memory, and started reprogramming them with the Creation Matrix. However, [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]], who had gotten a lift to the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] on Silverbolt's plane mode, had injected Optimus Prime with a [[cerebro-shell]] with which [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] was able to steal energy from the Creation Matrix and bring his newly-built combiner team, the [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]] to life. {{storylink|Heavy Traffic!}} The [[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobot]]s and [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s were the next combiner teams to become part of their respective factions' Earth-bound crew. {{storylink|Afterdeath!}}

[[File:Predaking gone but not forgotten.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1]]
''The combining [[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]] were summoned to Earth from Cybertron by Megatron.'' {{storylink|Prey!}} The Predacons were ''again'' summoned to Earth by Shockwave. {{storylink|Gone but Not Forgotten!}} The [[Technobot (G1)|Technobot]]s were part of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]]'s crew and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcon]]s were part of [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]'s crew on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. They had the ability to combine. {{storylink|The Transformers: Headmasters|Headmasters}} ''The [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]]s were combiners that were summoned from Cybertron to Earth by Shockwave.'' {{storylink|Enemy Action!}} They later came under the command of [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]]. {{storylink|Club Con!}}

[[Darkwing (G1)|Darkwing]] and [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]] combined to form [[Dreadwing (G1)|Dreadwing]]. They appeared to keep their individual personalities in their combined mode instead of merging their minds. {{storylink|People Power!}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====''The Transformers'' cartoon====
[[File:Heavy Metal War Devastator.JPG|thumb|upright=1.3|left]]
On Cybertron, the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] were existing Transformers who were brainwashed by [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] to become Decepticons. Megatron also adapted them with the ability to combine into [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] to challenge [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]]. Omega Supreme pursued the Constructicons for millions of years. {{storylink|The Secret of Omega Supreme (episode)|The Secret of Omega Supreme}} In 1984, the Constructicons were [[Constructicon (G1)#Origin inconsistency|(re?)created]] on [[Earth]] with the ability to combine to bolster the Decepticons' strength. {{storylink|Heavy Metal War}}

[[File:KeyVectorSigma2 Superion Menasor.JPG|thumb|upright=1.3]]
The [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticon]]s and [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbot]]s were built from scratch and given personality by [[Vector Sigma]]. They were designed with the ability to combine. {{storylink|The Key to Vector Sigma, Part 2}} [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] installed the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s' [[personality component]]s into junked military vehicles. This brought the vehicles to life with the ability to combine. {{storylink|Starscream's Brigade}} The [[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobot]]s became part of the Autobot forces on Earth and were able to combine. {{storylink|The Revenge of Bruticus}}

[[File:Starscreams brigade 7 SSrideshoulder.jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|left]]
Years later, the [[Predacon (G1)|Predacon]]s appeared as combiners under the command of the [[Quintesson]]s. {{storylink|Five Faces of Darkness, Part 5}} The combinable [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcon]]s were part of [[Galvatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Galvatron]]'s troops. An intellectually enhanced [[Grimlock (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Grimlock]] created the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobot]]s with the ability to combine. {{storylink|Grimlock's New Brain}}

====''Wings Universe''====
{{Wingsnote}}
Combining technology was the brainchild of the Decepticon warlord [[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]], {{storylink|Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 36|Bruticus's ''Wings Universe'' profile}} who debuted the technology about nine million years ago on his new recruits, the Combaticons, giving them the ability to combine into [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]]. {{storylink|The Coming Storm: Part 5}} Later, Megatron defeated Deathsaurus to become sole leader of the Decepticons, stealing Deathsaurus's technology to augment his Constructicons with the ability to form Devastator. {{storylink|Battle Lines, Part 5}}

====''Deviations''====
After becoming the new Decepticon leader, [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] was pressed into the service of [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]] bargaining that the Chaos Bringer bestow upon the power to combine with his inner circle. When Unicron attacked Cybertron, [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] attempted to use the [[Matrix of Leadership]] to destroy Unicron only to be met by Starscream – now calling himself "Megascream" – who combined with his troops and attempted to destroy Optimus. The Prime was saved by [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]] who teleported his leader away and opened the Matrix saving Cybertron while destroying himself and Megascream. {{storylink|Transformers: Deviations|Deviations}}

===''Robots in Disguise'' (2001)===
Combination was taken for granted and combiners were commonplace. (About half the characters are combiners, depending how you count.) No special explanation of their origin was offered.
[[File:Final Battle Landfill Rail Racer.jpg|thumb|250px]]
====One-robot combiners====
*In the television show, [[Megatron (RID)|Megatron/Galvatron]] was able to transform into his hand mode and then combine with his ship, the ''[[Megastar]]''.

====Two-robot combiners====
*[[Optimus Prime (RID)|Optimus Prime]] is capable of combining with his [[Relatives|brother]] [[Ultra Magnus (RID)|Ultra Magnus]] to form [[Omega Prime]].

====Three-robot combiners====
*[[Team Bullet Train]], consisting of [[Midnight Express (RID)|Midnight Express]], [[Railspike (RID)|Railspike]], and [[Rapid Run (RID)|Rapid Run]], combine into [[Rail Racer (RID)|Rail Racer]]. Their turned-to-evil counterparts [[Astrotrain (RID)|Astrotrain]], [[Steamhammer (RID)|Steamhammer]], and [[Loco]] combine into [[Dominus Trannis]].
*[[Fortress Maximus (RID)|Fortress Maximus]] is technically a three robot combination, although most of those robots could be considered drones. [[Cerebros (RID)|Cerebros]] and [[Emissary (RID)|Emissary]] combine together to form Fortress Maximus's head, which connects to the body.

====Four-robot combiners====
*The [[Build Team (RID)|Build Team]] ([[Wedge (RID)|Wedge]], [[Grimlock (RID 2001)|Grimlock]], [[Heavy Load (RID)|Heavy Load]], and [[Hightower (RID)|Hightower]]) can combine into the robot [[Landfill (RID)|Landfill]]. Their turned-to-evil counterparts [[Bonecrusher (Universe Ultra)|Bonecrusher]], [[Hightower (Universe Ultra)|Hightower]], [[Long Haul (Universe Ultra)|Long Haul]], and [[Scavenger (Universe Ultra)|Scavenger]] combine into [[Devastator (Universe Ultra)|Devastator]].
*The [[Protection Team]] members ([[Defensor (OTFCC)|Hot Spot]], [[Blades (RID)|Blades]], [[First Aid (RID)|First Aid]], and [[Rook (RID)|Rook]]) can combine into [[Defensor (OTFCC)|Defensor]].

====Five-robot combiners====
*The combined form of the [[Commandos]] is a being named [[Ruination (RID)|Ruination]]. This combiner is controlled almost entirely by [[Mega-Octane]], in order to be a more effective, coordinated being than most other combiners.

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
Experiments in combining were conducted both before and during the early phase of the civil war, in a process known as [[mass intellect]]. However, the combined forms suffered in that the stronger minds tended to drown out the weaker ones. Following the failure of the planetary engine turbines, the Constructicons turned their attention to the mass intellect process. They eventually developed a hyper vortex processor that managed to preserve the individuals minds in the combined whole. Testing the process on themselves, the Constructicons combined into Devastator. While the Constructicons were able to preserve their minds, Devastator was hampered by the need of all six Constructicons to agree on a course of action, which was usually destroy the Autobots. As a result, the combined intellects of the Constructicons did not translate to Devastator, who instead suffered serious mental disabilities. Despite this, Devastator's destructive capabilities greatly pleased Megatron, and he ordered the Constructicons to continue their experiments. {{storylink|Transformers: The Ultimate Guide}}
{{groupstub}}

===Unicron Trilogy===
====''Armada'' cartoon====
[[File:Comrade optimus supermode.jpg|left|thumb|250px]]
[[Optimus Prime (Armada)/Cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] could combine with his trailer to form a Super Mode robot. With this ability at his disposal, he beat the tar out of every Decepticon at least once. Then a new magic mushroom appeared: [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]]. During a battle with the Decepticons, the Autobots were totally getting slagged by [[Megatron (Armada)/Cartoon continuity|Megatron]]'s new tactician [[Thrust (Armada)|Thrust]] and his 'henchman' [[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Tidal Wave]]. Right when it seemed hopeless, a space shuttle fell from the sky and combined with Optimus to form Jet Optimus. Needless to say, Megatron was rather surprised. The Decepticons kept trying to beat the Autobots and miserably failed each time, frequently due to this new team-up, which also helped the Autobots survive and win [[the Unicron Battles]]. A third magic mushroom appeared late on in the series literally out of nowhere. Prime's new 'shroom, named [[Overload (Armada)|Overload]], formed a large pair of cannons on top of Super Optimus's shoulders. Overload's additional firepower, combined with the already impressive firepower of the Requiem Blaster, enabled Optimus to destroy the being known as [[Sideways (Armada)|Sideways]].

The Decepticons were not without their own combiner; Tidal Wave was able to combine with Megatron to form additional armor and a back-mounted [[jet pack|rocket pack]]. The only practical upshot of this is that Megatron could now fly, which came in handy from time to time.

The three [[Mini-Con]] companions of the humans Rad, Alexis and Carlos could band together to form Perceptor. There were three other Mini-Con combiner teams who could form the [[Star Saber (Armada)|Star Saber]], the [[Skyboom (Armada)|Skyboom Shield]], and the [[Requiem Blaster (Armada)|Requiem Blaster]]. A fourth weapon existed as a [[Vorpal Saber|dark clone]] of the Star Saber, wielded by the evil [[Nemesis Prime (Armada)|Nemesis Prime]].

====''Linkage'' comic====
The non-flying members of the evil [[Speed Chaser Team]] could form the [[Magnawing]] aircraft to transport themselves around. {{storylink|Linkage Part 4}}

====''Energon''====
[[File:Energon Decepticon Combiners.jpg|thumb|250px]]
During this period, one couldn't swing a dead cybercat without hitting a combiner, as every Autobot, save for the Omnicons, was capable of merging with another, or with an augmenting portion of his vehicle mode. Then the [[Bruticus Maximus (Energon)|three]] [[Constructicon Maximus|Maximus]] [[Superion Maximus|teams]] arrived, giving the Decepticons two five-part combiners and the Autobots one.
{{see|Spark of Combination}}

====''Cybertron'' comic====
The [[Deep Space Mini-Con Team]] could combine into the [[Umbral Blaster]] {{storylink|Revelations Part 5}} while the [[Sky Terror Mini-Con Team]] could form the [[Chaos Saber]].

====''Cybertron'' cartoon====
Optimus Prime and [[Wing Saber (Energon)|Wing Saber]] attempted to combine in the [[Chaar asteroid belt]] but failed so they gave up. {{storylink|United}}

Years later on the [[Animatron|Jungle Planet]], Optimus Prime and [[Overhaul (Cybertron)|Leobraker]] spontaneously gained the ability to combine in the heat of battle. {{storylink|Savage}} Leobraker remained Optimus's power mushroom until Wing Saber returned whereupon he and Optimus managed to successfully combine. {{storylink|United}}

After coming back to life, Megatron created [[Nemesis Breaker]] so that he could combine with his minion to form "Dark Claw Mode". {{storylink|Darkness (episode)|Darkness}}

====''Timelines''====
The [[Zephyr Blade Mini-Con Team]] could form the [[Pyro Saber]], {{storylink|Andromeda - Axiom Nexus News Reporter|Andromeda - Axiom Nexus News, 2015/05/19}} the [[Burning Rubber Mini-Con Team]] the [[Cosmotector (Armada)|Cosmotector]], the [[Cosmic Exploration Team]] the [[Astro Blaster (Armada)|Astro Blaster]], and the [[Urban Protection Team]] [[Bumble]]. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/07/11}}

===''Animated'' continuity===
===''Animated'' cartoon===
[[Image:WhereIsThySting-obligatorymisunderstanding.jpg|right|thumb|200px]]
[[Safeguard (Animated)|Safeguard]] was an unexpected result from the flight technology stolen from [[Starscream (Animated)|Starscream]], allowing the cocky fliers to synchronise together as a mighty robot, rather than a merging of two minds. They also combined into an “impressive” super jet.

===IDW Generation 1 continuity===
Combination between Cybertronians dated back to the era of the [[Thirteen Tribes]] in the primitive years preceding the [[First Cybertronian Civil War]]. During this time, [[Thirteen]] member [[Nexus Prime]] wielded the [[Enigma of Combination]], an extremely powerful artifact that allowed two or more Cybertronians to combine with one another. When war swept the early Cybertron, Nexus used the Enigma to create the first [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmster]]s, linkages between humanoid Cybertronians and the bestial 'bots of his ally of [[Shockwave (G1)/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Onyx Prime]]. {{storylink|Earthfall Chapter 3: The Mind Bomb|The Mind Bomb}} [[Darklands|Darklander]] warrior [[Galvatron (G1)/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Galvatron]], convinced of the innate "purity" of humanoid Cybertronians, {{storylink|The Crucible}} saw combination as a perversion that "rotted away the individual" {{storylink|Onyx Interface Part Three: ONoffON|OnoffON}} and slaughtered the Headmasters to the last 'bot in his campaign — a campaign that led him to Nexus Prime's castle. Galvatron easily killed the tribal leader and stole the Enigma from its owner; unable to destroy the artifact, he launched it into space in hopes that it would burn up in a nearby star. {{storylink|The Crucible}}

[[File:Monstructor-idw1.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Wubba wubba wubba is Monstructor's song.]]

After the remaining Thirteen abandoned Cybertron, the planet came under the rule of Nova Major, who took the title of [[Nova Prime]]. As Nova's early idealism gave way to a twisted, fascistic imperialism, he sought to literally fulfill the prophecy of a time when "[['Til all are one|all were one]]" by recreating the technology as a tool of conquest, and instructed his chief theoretical scientist [[Jhiaxus (G2)#IDW Generation 1 continuity|Jhiaxus]] to find a way to create a combiner without the Enigma. {{storylink|The Crucible}}

Jhiaxus's experiments eventually yielded a crude recreation of ancient combiner technology. Without the reality-warping power of the Enigma, the process was imperfect; {{storylink|Primus: All Good Things}} {{storylink|The Crucible}} this stunted form of combination relied on forcibly merging the bodies and minds of the 'bots involved in the combination. The first such combiner to be created using this process was to be the prototype for Jhiaxus's future endeavors; while the [[Pretender Monster|six volunteers]] who Jhiaxus had conscripted were able to successfully combine, the resultant personality was violently insane, dubbing itself "[[Monstructor (G1)|Monstructor]]" and rampaging through [[Crystal City]] until it was subdued and imprisoned by [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]]. {{storylink|Spotlight: Optimus Prime}} {{storylink|Primus: All Good Things}}

Perhaps due to the spectacular failure of Monstructor, serious research into combiner technology was largely shelved as Cybertronian society developed and stagnated, though some groups continued to try to unlock the secret. {{storylink|The Crucible}} As the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]] began, however, [[Megatron (G1)/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Megatron]] sought to bolster his growing [[Decepticon]] army by creating a viable combiner. To this end, he recruited [[Shockwave (G1)/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Shockwave]], one of Jhiaxus's former students, to continue his master's research into the technology, though Shockwave warned him that the process might take millions of years. {{storylink|Shockwaves}}

[[File:windblade_volume2_devisiun.jpg|thumb|right|350px|My Little Devisiun]]

Though true combination was still out of reach for the Cybertronian species, some individuals developed a safer form of combination where one or more robots could transform into part of an [[alternate mode]] — a mutation known as a "duocombiner". {{storylink|Shadowplay, Part 2: Patternism|Patternism}} The [[Functionist Council]] represented a twelve-bot combiner team; their assembled alternate mode was the religious ornament known as the [[Key to Vector Sigma]]. {{storylink|Dissolution Part 4: Bad Moon Rising|Bad Moon Rising}} In some instances, a shared alternate mode might be attributed to an incredibly rare genetic condition known as a "branched spark," causing Transformers to be born with a [[twin]] sibling. Though incredibly rare on Cybertron, the Transformer colonists of the planet [[Devisiun (planet)|Devisiun]] evolved into a civilization of duocombiners. When the inhabitants of Devisiun made formal contact with Cybertronians, Vanquish was quick to point out that his people were not "true" combiners like Superion, although they seemed impressed by the technology. {{storylink|Windblade vol. 2 issue 6|Windblade vol. 2 #6}} If one Devisien died, the remaining partner could no longer transform. {{storylink|The Next Day, and the Next}}

At some point during the Great War, the Decepticons drafted five subjects to become the "[[Combicon]]s," an experimental attempt at building a workable Decepticon combiner. Due to the humiliating process of having his [[alternate mode]] modified into a right leg, team member [[Ambulon]] defected to the Autobots and the project was abandoned. {{storylink|How Ratchet Got His Hands Back}} {{storylink|No Guns, No Swords, No Briefcases}} The Decepticon obsession with combiner technology became something of a joke amongst the Autobots during the war. {{storylink|The Waiting Game}}

When Monstructor escaped from his dimensional prison, he was apprehended by the Autobots {{storylink|Spotlight: Optimus Prime}} with his components being taken into custody in the hopes that they could be rehabilitated. [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] and the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobot]]s studied them with the goal of rehabilitating them, but the technology involved stymied Jetfire, who estimated it would take a lot more study before progress could be made. He didn't get the chance, however, since the "Monstructor Six" were soon captured by the [[Decepticon Secret Service]]. {{storylink|Spotlight: Arcee}}

Shockwave eventually abandoned the Decepticons in order to pursue his [[Regenesis|pet project]], and just prior to the [[Surge (event)|Surge]], [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]] followed up on Shockwave's combiner research and yielded the first Decepticon combiner in the form of [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]. Devastator avoided the insanity inherent in Jhiaxus's combination method by using the already like-minded [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] and deliberately suppressing their individual personalities while combined, but was still slow and dim-witted. {{storylink|Before the Dawn}} Following Megatron's defeat, [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] was killed by [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Spike Witwicky]] of [[Skywatch]]; {{storylink|Scrapper (issue)|Scrapper}} the Constructicons were able to continue forming Devastator after they liberated their comrade's body from human custody, but the combiner suffered from a "dead leg." {{storylink|Chaos Part Three: Kings|Kings}}

Other Decepticons sought to emulate the successful combination of the Constructicons, and in the years following the Surge some Decepticon groups would experiment with the technology. Both the [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticon]]s {{storylink|Things Fall Apart, Part 4: "Enemies of the System"|Enemies of the System}} and [[Predacon (G1)|Predacon]]s {{storylink|The Iron Klaw}} would acquire black market combiner technology (the former having acquired it through [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]]), but in both cases their efforts proved unsuccessful. Though the Stunticons got as far as forming [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]], they were unable to properly unify their minds and collapsed shortly after forming. {{storylink|Things Fall Apart, Part 5: "Earthworks"|Earthworks}} The Predacons didn't even get as far as combining; according to [[Kup (G1)/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Kup]], this failure was due to the rowdy group's inability to agree on ''anything''. {{storylink|The Iron Klaw}}

[[File:IDWRID14 prowlstator.jpg|thumb|right|175px]]

The next breakthrough in combiner technology came in the final battle of the Great War after the villainous entity [[D-Void]] harnessed a mysterious energy emitted by Cybertron's core; using the powers of the planet itself, the creature managed to suppress the individual wills of Galvatron, his [[Sweep (G1)|Sweep]]s, and the entirety of Megatron's Decepticon army, creating a [[Deceptigod|monstrous creature]] under the D-Void's direct control. {{storylink|Chaos Part Three: Kings|Kings}}

Inspired by this power, [[Megatron (G1)/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Megatron]] learned to manipulate the very same energy, which discombobulated the sensors of individual Cybertronians who strayed too far from the outskirts of [[Iacon (polity)|Iacon]]. When the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbot]]s ventured into the Cybertronian wilderness, they experienced a different effect: unnatural conflicts developed between them, and the group became increasingly aggressive until they spontaneously combined into [[Superion (G1)|Superion]]; this reaction was speculated to be a [[CNA]]-level defense mechanism against the hostile signal. {{storylink|Dinobot Hunt (IDW)|Dinobot Hunt}} {{storylink|Night and the City}}

At the same time, Bombshell and the Decepticon leadership had secretly taken control of the Autobot strategist [[Prowl (G1)/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Prowl]], retrofitting his quarters into "The Black Room", where they could improve further on combiner technology. Having recovered the five surviving Constructicons, Bombshell upgraded them into a new, modular design, one capable of accepting any compatible Transformer, and used Prowl as a guinea pig to form a Devastator under the control of Bombshell's [[cerebro-shell]]s. {{storylink|Before the Dawn}} When Bombshell died, Prowl's mind reawoke, and, united by their shared hatred of Spike Witwicky, a Prowl-centric Devastator personality emerged from the combiner. This new Devastator ran amuck and grievously injured the recently formed Superion until he was defeated. {{storylink|Plan for Everything}} When Megatron then tried to trigger his own Devastator combination with the Constructicons, the Autobots stopped him. {{storylink|Heavy Is the Head}}

The Constructicons began to see Prowl as a kindred spirit, and allied themselves with the Autobots in order to remain with him. {{storylink|Second Exodus}} Prowl soon became the de facto leader of the Constructicons, and tactically deployed Devastator on several occasions. {{storylink|Black Planet: Dark Cybertron Chapter 11|Black Planet}} {{storylink|Earthfall Part 2: Detonation Boulevard|Detonation Boulevard}} {{storylink|Earthfall Chapter 5: I Dream of Wires|I Dream of Wires}} {{storylink|Onyx Interface Part Three: ONoffON|OnoffON}} Though powerful, the Constructicons began slowly losing their individual quirks and finishing one another's sentences, while Prowl suffered energon "nosebleeds" after every combination session {{storylink|Earthfall Chapter 3: The Mind Bomb|The Mind Bomb}} and occasionally called his Constructicon teammates "Scrapper". {{storylink|Earthfall Chapter 5: I Dream of Wires|I Dream of Wires}} Even after he lost his place in the combination, Prowl stated that his experiences as Devastator meant that he no longer saw the Decepticons as enemies, but as a part of him. {{storylink|Now and On Earth}}

Monstructor resurfaced after the Chaos war, once more serving under Jhiaxus and Bludgeon. The combiner prototype opposed Orion Pax and his allies on several occasions until Shockwave was finally defeated. {{storylink|Syndromica (1)}} {{storylink|Syndromica (2)}} {{storylink|The Becoming: Dark Cybertron Chapter 10|The Becoming}} {{storylink|Black Planet: Dark Cybertron Chapter 11|Black Planet}} {{storylink|...And the Damage Done: Dark Cybertron Finale|...And the Damage Done}}

[[File:MistakesAndMayhem-Defensor.jpg|thumb|left|200px|"To fight monsters, we created monsters of our own."]]

The dramatic upswing of combiner activity across the galaxy had the side effect of sparking an unofficial combiner arms race. Worried about the destructive potential combiner posed, Cybertronian ruler [[Starscream (G1)/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Starscream]] ordered a team of scientists to repair the damaged Superion so that he could have a combiner of his own, incorporating [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] and [[Alpha Bravo]] as replacements. Repairs was hastened by the recovery of the lost Enigma of Combination; using it, [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] was able to quickly return Superion to full functionality. {{storylink|The World of Tomorrow}}

Superion's return coincided with the restoration of [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]]'s [[space bridge]] and a potential alliance with the lost colony of [[Caminus (planet)|Caminus]]. Hoping to rule the planet as part of an empire, Starscream's ambitions set in motion the brief but destructive "[[Combiner Wars (event)|Combiner Wars]]," a series of battles on Cybertron and Caminus that saw the Enigma change hands numerous times, creating several new combiners. Combatants included Superion, a rebuilt Menasor, {{storylink|First Contact (IDW)|First Contact}} [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]], formed from the loosely affiliated "[[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobot]]s", {{storylink|Mistakes and Mayhem}} a new version of Devastator that incorporated Starscream's lackey [[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] in place of Prowl, and [[Optimus Maximus (G1)|Optimus Maximus]]. {{storylink|You, Me, and the Universe}} Ultimately, Optimus Maximus, Superion, and Defensor emerged triumphant after a fight that spanned the galaxy, with both Menasor and Devastator knocked back into their component 'bots. Optimus Maximus willingly split himself apart in the aftermath so that Prowl could be arrested. {{storylink|All That Remains}}

[[File:CombinerHunters victorion.jpg|thumb|right|200px|It was at this moment Arcee knew she'd screwed up.]]

After the formation of the [[Council of Worlds]], Arcee tried to steal the Enigma of Combination, sparking in motion a chain of events that led to six visiting [[Torchbearer]]s accidentally merging into the powerful [[Victorion]]. {{storylink|An Uneventful Night}}

Combiners created by the Enigma, although not markedly more intelligent than combiners created by other means, were far more mentally stable, and displayed unusual powers such as the ability to split their bodies apart or even fire their limbs as rocket-powered projectiles. {{storylink|The Sum and Its Parts}} Defensor, an Enigma combiner, was even able to substitute [[Ambulon]] as a replacement limb without any special modifications; this didn't last long, as he was killed by [[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] shortly afterwards. {{storylink|The Plotters' Club (Part 3): Journey's End|Journey's End}}

Unlike other combiners, where a single, strong-willed 'bot could dominate the emergent personality, Enigma combiners relied on the joined minds of their components merging into a balanced mental entity, and failure to do so relied in the combiner becoming paralyzed by indecision. {{storylink|All That Remains}} Defensor and Superion both showed an unwillingness to split into their components, which worried Optimus Prime. Prowl referred to their new gestalt modes as the team's new "normal form", and noted that it was difficult for combiner teams to stay separate. {{storylink|You, Me, and the Universe}} After his arrest, Prowl taunted Optimus Prime, arguing that since they had formed Optimus Maximus together, a part of Prowl would always exist in Prime's mind. {{storylink|Now and On Earth}}
[[File:AHM-SkyReign.jpg|upright=1.2|thumb|left]]

When Optimus Prime annexed Earth, he brought Superion and Victorion to assist him. However, the Enigma of Combination had, thanks to the machinations of [[G.B. Blackrock#IDW Generation 1 continuity|Garrison Blackrock]], "infected" all of Earth's computer devices and thus turned the planet itself into one big Enigma that [[Galvatron (G1)/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Galvatron]] could control, creating [[Galvatronus (Generations)|Galvatronus]] and [[Sky Reign]] in the process. {{storylink|All Hail Optimus Part 4: It's Beginning To And Back Again|It's Beginning To And Back Again}} Superion sacrificed his life to undo the process, effectively "killing" himself by incorporating a part of the Enigma's code into his mind and permanently separating. {{storylink|All Hail Optimus Part 5: As Above...So Below|As Above...So Below}}

Around this time, the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]] sought to access the mind of brain-dead Swindle, who had previously claimed to have dirt on Starscream. To do so, [[Onslaught (G1)#IDW Generation 1 continuity|Onslaught]] used the Enigma on all five to create [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]]. The four Combaticons were unprepared for the experience, and their volatile emotional state caused Bruticus to rampage through Iacon. {{storylink|The Line Between Us}} As a result of the combination, [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] caught a glimpse of Swindle's last memories, and, as a result, developed a pervasive fear of death. {{storylink|The Chosen One}}

After the Ore-13 crisis, the [[human]] dictator [[Iron Klaw|Count "Iron Klaw" von Rani]] was able to develop an alternate version of combination technology with the help of [[Merklynn|Garrison Kregier]]; by using a copy of the mysterious [[Talisman (G1)|Talisman]] to improve on the Predacon's failed combination technology, he was able to instigate a proper combination, dubbing their combined form "[[Predaking (G1)|Predaking]].". Without access to the Enigma of Combination, he was forced to use the Talisman to suppress their individual minds and turn them into mindless drones under his control. When [[Snake-Eyes]] smashed the console that kept them docile, their argumentative personalities resurfaced and tore the combiner apart. {{storylink|The Iron Klaw}} Despite the apparent death of Razorclaw following their seperation, Iron Klaw eventually managed to restore Predaking through unknown means, and used the seemingly unbrainwashed combiner to fight back the Maximal invasion of Earth. {{storylink|Ceremony}}

The [[Ammonite]]s, a diminutive faction of robotic shapeshifters far more advanced than Cybertronians, were "omnicombinational": any Ammonite could combine with many others into a wide variety of forms, even mimicking [[Paddox|Cybertronians]]. {{storylink|Little Victories}}

===Live-action film series===
Experimental combiner technology was developed by the Decepticons for combat advantage and then used on the [[Constructicon (ROTF)|Constructicon]]s who were able to form [[Devastator (ROTF)|Devastator]]. Comfort was rather decidedly not on the top of the list of priorities and, as a result, the process was brutally painful to the Transformers involved, which also made the combiners fuse in a very aggressive and painful manner. The mental and physical torture involved left Devastator only interested in causing destruction.<ref>Devastator's [http://www.hasbro.com/transformers/en_US/discover/Battle-Bios.cfm Battle Bio] at Hasbro.com</ref>

[[Knock Out (ROTF)|Knock Out]] hoped to undergo the "combination retrofit" process.<ref>Knock Out's toy bio.</ref>

The [[Tyran]] versions of the [[Aerialbot (ROTF)|Aerialbots]] and the [[Combaticon (ROTF)|Combaticons]] could combine into [[Superion (ROTF)|Superion]] and [[Bruticus Maximus (ROTF)|Bruticus Maximus]], respectively. Both combined forms had limited intelligence: [[Superion (ROTF)|Superion]] was seemingly incapable of any thoughts beyond "destroy Decepticons" and "protect innocents", while [[Bruticus Maximus (ROTF)|Bruticus Maximus]], despite being both dumb and slow, could overwhelm almost any opponent his strength and nigh-impenetrable armor.<ref>Superion and Bruticus Maximus's toy bios.</ref> Even the mighty [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]] was careful not to get blindsided by the immense might of Bruticus Maximus. {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 2.3}}

Combiners were not limited to one combination scheme. Their final form could also vary.<ref>[http://unicron-events-interviews.blogspot.com/2009/10/hasbro-q-10212009.html Hasbro's answer to Unicron.com] as part of the [[Hasbro Q&A/October 2009#Unicron.com|October 2009 Q&A]].</ref>

The [[Guardian Knight|Knights of Iacon]] could combine into the mighty three-headed dragon known as [[Dragonstorm]], whereas [[Quintessa (TLK)|Quintessa]]'s [[Infernocon]]s could combine into the monstrous [[Infernocus]]. {{storylink|Transformers: The Last Knight (film)|The Last Knight}}

===IDW ''Beast Wars'' comics===
[[File:DawnOfThePredacus-magnabossvsmegatron.jpg|thumb|left|250px|Magnaboss SMASH!]]
In the final days of the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]], [[Tarantulas (BW)|Tarantulas]] oversaw the creation of [[Predacus]], a combiner formed from the members of the [[Tripredacus Council]]. {{storylink|Dawn of the Predacus}} The Autobots and [[Maximal]]s retaliated by creating [[Magnaboss (BW)|Magnaboss]], uniting some of the most seasoned veterans of the war. {{storylink|Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook|Beast Wars Sourcebook}} Both Magnaboss and Predacus played vital roles in the last battle of the war that led to the signing of the [[Pax Cybertronia]]. {{storylink|Dawn of the Predacus}}

By the time of the [[Great Upgrade]], combiner technology had been largely abandoned and dismissed as too energy-inefficient. The exception was the Tripredacus Council, who had apparently refined the technology to create [[Tripredacus]]. {{storylink|Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook|Beast Wars Sourcebook}}
{{-}}

===Aligned continuity family===
Combining was an art as old as Cybertron itself; the very first combiner, [[Nexus Prime]], was also one of the [[Thirteen]]. [[Shockwave (WFC)|Shockwave]] would eventually experiment with combination technology. Before the [[Great War (Prime)|Great War]], Shockwave experimented on the [[Combaticon (WFC)|Combaticons]] during his time at [[Crystal City]]. Their combined form, the savage and uncontrollable [[Bruticus (WFC)|Bruticus]], was deemed too dangerous and was put in stasis for safety.

In [[Kaon (polity)|Kaon]], he created three combining [[Insecticon (WFC)|Insecticon]]s, which were torn apart by [[Megatron (WFC)|Megatron]] during a gladiatorial pitfight. During the war, the Combaticons were re-activated and opted to join the Decepticons, putting their nigh-unstoppable combined form to good use. Midway through the war, he perfected his experiments, creating the [[Constructicon (WFC)|Constructicon]] combiner known as [[Devastator (WFC)|Devastator]]. Autobot saboteurs managed to steal and reverse-engineer combiner technology, and created [[Defensor (WFC)|Defensor]], who battled Devastator to a standstill at the [[Tagan Heights]]. {{storylink|Transformers: Exodus|Exodus}}

The five [[Aerialbot (WFC)|Aerialbots]] aboard the ''[[Ark (WFC)|Ark]]'' were combiners; their gestalt form of [[Superion (Prime)|Superion]] was instrumental in rescuing both Autobots and Decepticons from the Quintesson-controlled [[Aquatron]]. {{storylink|Transformers: Retribution|Retribution}}

The Decepticon criminal [[Chop Shop (RID)|Chop Shop]] was formed from five identical robots. Notably, he could function without all of his limbs in-place and could appropriate minicons like [[Fixit (RID)|Fixit]] as replacement limbs. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye (RID)|More than Meets the Eye}}

[[File:TRID SF Ultra Bee vs Galvatronus.jpg|thumb|250px]]
The Bee Team combined into [[Ultra Bee|one robot]] after getting caught in an explosion during their fight with Heatseeker, though none of them understood what was going on. {{storylink|King of the Hill (Part 2)}} The team experienced this phenomenon again during their battle with [[Dragstrip (WFC)|Dragstrip]] at a swamp. They didn't understand how to control it, and being combined had the strange effect of splitting [[Sideswipe (RID)|Sideswipe]] into two individuals. Fixit deduced the radiation from the nuclear waste dump gave them this ability. {{storylink|The Great Divide}} Fixit's experiment to see how the Combiner was formed left Grimlock and Drift temporarily stuck, back to back. {{storylink|Get a Clue}}

All five [[Stunticon (Prime)|Stunticons]] were able to combine into the powerful (though unintelligent) [[Menasor (RID)|Menasor]]. The inability of Menasor's components to agree on...anything allowed the Autobots time to form Ultra Bee who eventually felled the Stunticon combiner. {{storylink|Combine and Conquer}} Twice. {{storylink|Moon Breaker}}

To combat [[Soundwave (WFC)|Soundwave]], the [[Bee Team (RID)|Bee Team]] attempted to form Ultra Bee but found themselves unable to complete the combination without [[Drift (RID)|Drift]]. {{storylink|Collateral Damage}}

[[Cyclonus (WFC)|Cyclonus]] and his troops were able to combine into [[Galvatronus (RID)|Galvatronus]]. They attempted to use their combined form to defeat the Bee Team only to be met with Ultra Bee. Nonetheless, the Decepticon combiner proved stronger than his Autobot counterpart until [[Cyberwarp]]'s hesitations allowed Ultra Bee to triumph. {{storylink|Freedom Fighters}}

====Crash Combiners====
Crash Combining was the act of two bots becoming one by crashing into each other. Dragstrip and [[Wildbreak]] demonstrated the ability to do this, when they became [[Dragbreak]] to evade capture from the Bee Team. {{storylink|Bee Cool}} Fixit began experimenting with combining, only to fail. {{storylink|Get a Clue}} However, he would later succeed and turn Sideswipe and Grimlock into a Crash Combiner. {{storylink|Out of the Shadows}}

===''Transformers vs. G.I. Joe''===
To combat a [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]] invasion, the Constructicons formed Devastator. In spite of being able to deter the initial invasion force, he was rammed by the ''[[Defiant (G.I. Joe)|Defiant]]'', {{storylink|Targetmasters (issue)|Targetmasters}} which killed Long Haul and seemingly ended Devastator {{storylink|Earth: R.I.P.}} until they got a replacement lower torso. The [[Rescuebot]]s were also capable of combining into [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]]. {{storylink|Transformers vs. G.I. Joe issue 12|Transformers vs. G.I. Joe #12}}

===''Beast Wars: Uprising''===
[[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] was the only known [[Builder of Cybertron|Builder]]-era combiner to last until the era of the [[Maximal]]s and [[Predacon (BW)|Predacons]]. To remain mobile on the barren post-war Cybertron, the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] downsized to [[Micromaster]] bodies, but by this time 2/3rds of Devastator's components had been replaced with Autobots. {{storylink|Micro-Aggressions}} {{storylink|Cultural Appropriation}}

When the [[Monster GoBot]]s attempted to bait the [[Human Confederacy]] into destroying Cybertron, Devastator formed to beat back the invaders' combined form of [[Monsterous]]. {{storylink|Cultural Appropriation}}

During the [[Vehicon Apocalypse]], Devastator formed again, this time alongside the combiner [[Magnaboss (BW)|Magnaboss]], to fight the [[Grand Mal]]. A beam from the Mal hit both combiners, and though Magnaboss survived the battle with only [[Lio Junior|one component]] lost, three of Devastator's components perished. {{storylink|Derailment}} The [[Tripredacus Council]] stole technology from Magnaboss to allow themselves to combine into [[Tripredacus]]. They utilized their combined form to hunt down and slay [[Preditron]] before two of his three components were killed by [[Ser-Ket (BW)|Ser-Ket]]. {{storylink|Derailment}}

In the following era of peace, the surviving Constructicons auditioned for new members to resurrect Devastator as a force of ''con''struction, eventually accepting [[Wideload (G1)|Wideload]], [[Hauler|Road Hauler]] and [[Steam Hammer]] into their ranks. The new Devastator was formed at their graduation ceremony, and the smarter, constructive-minded combiner was heralded as the champion of the Builders. {{storylink|The Inexorable March}}

===''Prime Wars Trilogy'' cartoons===
[[File:CombinerWarsTheFallScreen.JPG|left|thumb|250px|And you thought the Energon combiners were rubbish.]]
Near the end of the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]], many new Combiners were created by the [[Enigma of Combination]]. These new Combiners began battling one another and laying waste to their surroundings in a conflict known as the [[Combiner Wars (event)|Combiner Wars]], which continued for decades after the Great War had concluded.
{{groupstub}}

==Combiner list==
{{note|Due to the many uses of redecoes as new characters and convenience for reading, each mold is listed on its own line, with all different-character decoes/retools on the same line.}}
===Combiners with two members===
[[File:G1toy-Slamdance.jpg|thumb|200px|Slamdance]]
*[[Optimus Prime Super Modes#Unicorn Trilogy|Jet Optimus]]
*[[Mega-Dinobot]]
*[[Decibel]]
*[[Legout]]
*[[Slamdance (G1)]]
*[[Squawkbox]]
*[[Dreadwing (G1)]] / [[Darkwings]]
*[[Stormtrooper (Cybertronian)|Stormtrooper]]s
*[[Multiforce]] members
**[[Wingwaver]]
**[[Dashtacker]]
**[[Machtackle]] 
*[[Dreadwing (G2)]] and [[Smokescreen (G2)]]'s combined form / [[Megatron (G1)]] and [[Starscream (G1)]]'s combined form / [[Formation Scream]] / [[Stealth Bomber]] / [[Dreadwing (RID)]] / [[Gigant Sniper]]
*[[Sky Powered]]
*[[Land Powered]]
*[[Attack Powered]]
*[[Powerlinx#Energon|Silver and Gold Powerlinx users]]
*[[Safeguard (Animated)]]
*[[Skids (ROTF)]] and [[Mudflap (ROTF)]] in ice cream truck mode
*[[Primestrong]]
*[[Beeside]]
*"[[Sidelock]]"
*"[[Bumblearm]]"
*[[Skyhammer (RID)|Skyhammer]]/[[Shocknado]]
*[[Dragbreak]]
*[[Heatmark]]
*[[Dragonstorm]] (only in toy form)
*[[Battletrap]] (only in toy form)

===Combiners formed by main bodies with power-up partners===
[[File:Omega Prime toy.jpg|thumb|200px|Omega Prime]]
{{See also|Super Mode}}
*[[Godbomber|God]] [[Ginrai (human)|Ginrai]]
*[[Victory Leo|Victory]] [[Star Saber (Victory)|Saber]]
*[[Omega Prime]]
*[[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Burning]] [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]]
*Combined form of [[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Tidal Wave]] and [[Megatron (Armada)|Galvatron]]
*[[Optimus Prime Super Modes#Unicorn Trilogy|Optimus Prime Megaweapon]]
*[[Optimus Prime Super Modes#Unicorn Trilogy|Optimus Prime Fight Mode or Optimus Prime Flight Mode]]
*[[Optimus Prime Super Modes#Unicron Trilogy|Optimus Supreme]]
*[[Optimus Prime Super Modes#Unicorn Trilogy|Optimus Prime Savage Claw Mode]]
*[[Optimus Prime Super Modes#Unicorn Trilogy|Optimus Prime Sonic Wing Mode]]
*[[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] [[Nemesis Breaker|Dark Claw Mode]]
*[[Optimus Prime Super Modes#Live-action film series|Power Up Optimus Prime]] (''aka'' Jetpower Optimus Prime)
{{note|Optimus Prime and Jetfire are not a combiner in the fiction — Optimus simply uses Jetfire's corpse as parts to enhance his strength and firepower.}}

===Combiners with three or more members (non-Scramble City-type)===
[[File:R dinoking057.jpg|thumb|200px|Dinoking]]
*[[Devastator (G1)]]
*[[Devastator (ROTF)]]
*[[Predaking (G1)|Predaking]]
*[[Raiden]]
*[[Monstructor (G1)]] / [[Dinoking]]
*[[Road Caesar]]
*[[Liokaiser]]
*[[Big Rescue Force]]
*[[Landcross (Victory)|Landcross]]
*[[Big Powered]]
*[[Magnaboss (BW)]] / [[Magnaboss (BWII)]]
*[[Dreadwing (RID)|MegaWing]] [[Megatron (Armada)|Galvatron]]
*[[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Dark]] [[Dreadwing (RID)|MegaWing]] [[Megatron (Armada)|Galvatron]]
*[[Prime Processing Unit]] {{storylink|Collect and Save}}
*[[Tripredacus]] / [[Tripledacus]]
*[[Tri-Rex]]
*[[Rail Racer (RID)]] / [[Dominus Trannis]]
*[[Landfill (RID)]] / [[Devastator (Universe Ultra)]]
*Unnamed [[Minibot combiner]] {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 8|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 8}}
*[[Beast (G1)|Beast]] {{storylink|The Beast Within|The Beast Within}}
*[[Insectrain]] {{storylink|Hearts of Steel issue 2}}
*[[Reedman]]
*"[[Deceptigod]]"
*[[Abominus (Prime)]] / [[Goradora]] / [[Infernocus]] (when formed by ''five'' '''distinct''' Infernocons)
*[[Mighty Robot]]
*[[Mighty Vehicle]]
*[[Starscream Combiner#Deviations|Megascream]] {{storylink|Transformers: Deviations}}
*[[Starscream (G1)#Prime Wars Trilogy cartoons|Starscream Super-Combiner]] {{storylink|A War of Giants}}
*The [[Functionist Council]] {{storylink|Dissolution Part 4: Bad Moon Rising|Bad Moon Rising}}
*[[Ultra Bee]]
*[[Menasor (RID)]]
*[[Galvatronus (RID)]]
*[[Dragonstorm]] {{storylink|Transformers: The Last Knight (film)|The Last Knight}}
*Infernocus (when formed by ''six'' '''identical''' Infernocons) {{storylink|Transformers: The Last Knight (film)|The Last Knight}}
*[[Victorion|Victorion Super-Combiner]] {{storylink|Desperate Actions}}

===Triple Combination combiners===
[[File:TFGoHishoumaru.jpg|thumb|150px|Hishoumaru]]
*[[Gekisoumaru|DaiGekisou]]
*[[Kenzan|DaiKenzan]]
*[[Gekisoumaru|GoGekisou]]
*[[Ganoh|GoGanoh]]
*[[Hishoumaru|GoHishou]]
*[[Jinbu|GoJinbu]]
*[[Kenzan|GoKenzan]]
*[[Sensuimaru|GoSensui]]

===Scramble City-type combiners===
[[File:Superion toy.jpg|thumb|200px|Superion]]
*[[Bruticus (G1)]] / [[Battle Gaia]] / [[Ruination (RID)]]
*[[Defensor (G1)]] / [[Guard City]]
*[[Menasor (G1)]]
*[[Superion (G1)]]
*[[Abominus (G1)]]
*[[Computron (G1)|Computron]]
*[[Piranacon (G1)|Piranacon]]<ref name="seacon">With extra "limb" robot used as weapon.</ref> / [[King Poseidon]]<ref name="seacon" /> / [[God Neptune (BWII)]] / [[God Neptune (BWSG)]]
*[[Bruticus (WFC)]] / [[Ruination (FOC)]]
*[[Optimus Maximus (G1)]]
*[[Victorion]] / [[Megatronia]]
*[[Sky Reign]]
*[[Galvatronus (Generations)]] {{storylink|All Hail Optimus Part 4: It's Beginning To And Back Again|It's Beginning To And Back Again}}
*[[Grand Galvatron]]
*[[Thunder Mayhem]]
*[[Predacus]]
*[[Wreckage (G1)|Wreckage]]
*[[Volcanicus (Generations)|Volcanicus]]
;Official mix-n-match Scramble City-type combiners
*[[Abomenaticus]]
*[[Comperian]]
*[[Cybertron Super Scramble]]
*[[Destron Super Scramble]]
*[[Scramble 7]]
*[[Ultra Prime]]
*[[Galvatronus (Generations)]] (only in toy form)
*[[Betatron]]
*[[Modulus]]
*Unnamed [[Starscream Combiner]]
*[[Elita-Infin1te]]
*Unnamed [[Inferno Combiner]]

===Micromaster-type combiners===
[[File:TFU03-toy DevastatorMicro.jpg|thumb|200px|Devastator]]
*[[Micromaster Combiner]] Squads
**[[Barrage (Micromaster)|Barrage]] and [[Heave]]
**[[Blackout (G1)|Blackout]] and [[Spaceshot]]
**[[Blast Master]] and [[Phaser (G1)|Phaser]]
**[[Direct-Hit (G1)|Direct-Hit]] and [[Power Punch (G1)|Power Punch]]
**[[Excavator (G1)|Excavator]] and [[Stonecruncher (G1)|Stonecruncher]] / [[Retro]] and [[Surge (G1)|Surge]]
**[[Fireshot (G1)|Fireshot]] and [[Vanquish (G1)|Vanquish]]
**[[Full-Barrel]] and [[Overflow]]
**[[Grit (G1)|Grit]] and [[Knockout (G1)|Knockout]]
**[[Half-Track (G1)|Half-Track]] and [[Meltdown (G1)|Meltdown]]
**[[Hammer (G1)|Hammer]] and [[Sledge (G1)|Sledge]] / [[Cement-Head]] and [[Terror-Tread]]
**[[Missile Master]] and [[Moonrock]]
**[[Oiler]] and [[Slide]]
**[[Power Run]] and [[Strikedown]]
**[[Roadburner]] and [[Wheel Blaze]]
*[[Sixliner]] / [[Sixtrain]]<ref>Sixtrain was redecoed and retooled from Sixliner.</ref> / [[Rail Racer (Universe)]]<ref>Universe Rail Racer uses the same deco as Takara's 2003 redecoed "reissue" of Sixtrain.</ref>
*[[Sixbuilder]] / [[Decepticon Sixbuilder]] / [[Devastator (Universe Micromaster)]]
*[[Sixturbo]] / [[Defensor (Universe)]]
*[[Sixwing|Sixwing / Berserker Sixwing / Destron Sixwing]] / [[Superion (Universe)]]

===Mini-Con combiners===
[[File:ArmadaPerceptorToy.jpg|thumb|150px|Perceptor]]
*[[Perceptor (Armada)#Armada 3|Perceptor (Armada)]] / [[Bumble]]
*[[Perceptor (Armada)#Energon 3|Perceptor (Energon)]] / [[Heavy Metal (SL)|Heavy Metal]] / [[Windcharger (SL)]] / [[Perceptor (Armada)#Cybertron|Perceptor (Cybertron)]] / [[Bumble]]
*[[Mirror]] / [[Nightcreeper]]
*[[Requiem Blaster (Armada)|Requiem Blaster]] / [[Umbral Blaster]] / [[Astro Blaster (Armada)]] / [[Transwarp Blaster]]
*[[Skyboom (Armada)]] / [[Magnawing]] / [[Cosmotector (Armada)]]
*[[Star Saber (Armada)]] / [[Vorpal Saber]] / [[Energon Saber]] / [[Cryo Saber]] / [[Chaos Saber]] / [[Pyro Saber]]
*[[Centuritron]]
*[[Chop Shop (RID)]]

===Maximus-type [[Powerlinx]] combiners===
[[File:ConstructiconMaximus toy2.jpg|thumb|150px|Constructicon Maximus]]
*[[Bruticus Maximus (Energon)]] / [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus Maximus (G1)]] (Universe) / [[Bruticus Maximus (ROTF)]]
*[[Constructicon Maximus]] / [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator (Classics)]]
*[[Superion Maximus]] / [[Dauntless Maximus]] / [[Superion (G1)]] (Universe) / [[Superion (ROTF)]]
*[[Nexus Prime]]

==="Omnicombinational" [[Stentarian]] combiners===
*[[16444/9]]
*[[Paddox]]
*[[Centuritron]]

==Unused concepts==
[[File:Generations Street Combiner.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb|He transforms into a traffic jam.]]
Combiners were a very popular idea during the Generation 1 toyline and as such there are loads of scrapped combiner designs that never got past the drawing board. Among them were:
*A Scramble City-style dinosaur combiner. The body is a ''T. rex'', while the limbs are a pterodactyl (right arm), ''Ankylosaurus'' (left leg), ''Dimetrodon'' (left arm), and ''Styracosaurus'' (right leg)<ref>[[Transformers Generations]], p22</ref>
*A decidedly goofy organic insect combiner composed of a stag beetle (right leg), another beetle (left leg), grasshopper (left arm), fly (right arm), and a cockroach body.<ref name="p99">[[Transformers Generations]], p99</ref>
*A cybernetic beast combiner that did not form a robot, but rather a large cybernetic monster. It is formed from a cyber bat, mole, stag beetle, and a couple of fish things.<ref name="p99" />
*A fifteen (!) vehicle Micromaster combiner where the only attached parts not contained by the component robots were the large robot fists. This combiner consists of three uniformly colored teams (in a similar fashion to the vehicular Voltron of the same time period):
**Air team (blue)- two jets, two helicopters, a space shuttle.
**Construction team (green)- a hauler, a bulldozer, a steam shovel, a tank (don't ask), a missile carrier (don't ask).
**Street team (red)- two cars, a motorcycle, a formula racer, a jeep.<ref name="p108">[[Transformers Generations]], p108</ref>
*A simpler dinosaur combiner composed of a pterodactyl, a not-really-a-''Stegosaurus'', and a ''T. rex'' with a very large head. The three combine into a dinosaur thing similar to [[Magmatron]]'s combined dino mode. It shares many visual characteristics with Tomy's relatively simple robot designs.<ref name="p108" />
[[File:ClassicVehicombiner.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb|Either the smallest steamboat ever, or the largest car in existence.]]
*A five vehicle combiner (evidently not Scramble City-style in nature) composed of a steam engine (right arm), steam boat (torso), car (right leg), truck (left leg), and plane (left arm).
*A base consisting mostly of ramps and a hollow tower in the center that combined with 14 non-transforming cars and vans. Two vehicles make up each limb, with three crammed in the chest, two for feet, and one that slides into the tower's gun platform to form the head. The ramps would then act as an exoskeleton to contain all of the components.<ref name="p79">[[Transformers Generations 2009#Volume 2|Transformers Generations 2009 Vol. 2]], p79</ref>
*A robot formed from a truck cab and four cars with no robot modes that each have flip out weapon arrays. This may qualify more as a conventional "super robot" than a standard combiner, but we may never know.<ref name="p80">[[Transformers Generations 2009#Volume 2|Transformers Generations 2009 Vol. 2]], p80</ref>
*A "Duocon" (or rather, "Triocon", in this case) style robot formed by three cars. One car splits in half to form the arms, another splits for the legs, and a third folds in half to reveal the robot head and connect it all together.<ref name="p80"/>
*A Concorde jet that split into two robots, where the front portion's robot can pop out three wheels and a spare cockpit to give it a land mode. Presumably the larger rear robot could do the same.<ref name="p81">[[Transformers Generations 2009#Volume 2|Transformers Generations 2009 Vol. 2]], p81</ref>
*Two military convoy "trains", one good, one evil, of six vehicles each hooked together that combine along the lines of Devastator but with loads more guns. The robot core is formed by a tractor trailer that leads either convoy, the good one being long nosed, the evil one being flat, each with trailers that open up into small cannon platforms usable by the five smaller robots. Said trailers also become their respective combined form's handgun. The other five members each have a specific large weapon such as a missile rack or chaingun that they can also use in robot mode.<ref name="p83">[[Transformers Generations 2009#Volume 2|Transformers Generations 2009 Vol. 2]], p83</ref>

==Notes==
*'''Gestalt''', a German word which literally means 'form' or 'shape', in this context refers to the psychological concept, namely 'something which is more or greater than the sum of its parts', e.g. a table being more than the timber it's made out of. The origin of "gestalt" as a fan-term is unknown; the earliest documented use is in 1998, when it was already in common parlance.<ref>[https://groups.google.com/group/alt.toys.transformers/msg/af8234bb79475e5f?dmode=source&output=gplain&noredirect Earliest known alt.toys.transformers post using "gestalt"]</ref> Intriguingly, however, the {{w|Isaac Asimov's Robots in Time|''Robots in Time'' series of novels}} published in 1993-94 prominently feature a "gestalt robot" who could split into six smaller autonomous robots, each with a different personality. If this actually inspired some ''Transformers'' fan searching for a good word to use, there is no evidence of it, but the publishing timeframe is conspicuously close to the opaque early days of the online fandom.
*[[Devastator (G1)|Generation 1 Devastator]] and [[Raiden]] are the only combiners from the [[Diaclone]] toyline.
*[[Scramble City (toyline)|Scramble City]]-type combiners were initially designed to be a sub-line of ''[[Diaclone]]'' called ''Jizai Gattai'' ("Free Combination"). This goes along with their ability to interact with and attach to [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] and [[Metrotitan (Zone)|Metrotitan]], the designs of which were also originally intended for the ''Diaclone'' line.
*Six of the seven released Generation 1 Scramble City-type combiners were apparently released in themed pairs, themes usually further reinforced by their team members' tech spec bios to some extent.
**Aerialbots (air vehicles) and Stunticons (ground vehicles)
**Protectobots (rescue vehicles) and Combaticons (offensive vehicles... and a space shuttle)
**Technobots (futuristic vehicles) and Terrorcons (fantastical beasts)
**The Seacons are the odd men out, but the above-mentioned unreleased dinosaur Scramble City-style combiner may have been an intended adversary.
[[File:AbomenaticusPoster.jpg|thumb|200px|Do It Yourself]]
*Scramble City-type combiners are infamous for their murky establishment as to nominal limb assignments among team members. Due to the fact any robot can form either an arm or a leg, the franchise as a whole very rarely enforces a "standard" combination setup to a particular Scramble City combiner.
*Combiners—or, perhaps more appropriately, ''gestalts''—are almost always much larger than their components would suggest; examples from almost any incarnation of the franchise that includes them show combiners that tower over regular or even large Transformers even when the individual team members are smaller than average. Perhaps the most egregious example, the Dreamwave G1 comics present Devastator as almost absurdly huge. After engaging and defeating Superion, he holds one of the latter's component members in his hand, his [[robot mode]] proportionally no larger than a doll.
*The [[IDW Generation 1 continuity]] mentions [[size changing|mass displacement]] when the—again, immense—size of Devastator is brought up, and in this case the example is even more notable because one of the components of this incarnation of Devastator is Prowl, whose own head ''physically grows'' into the combined mode's head.

==Footnotes==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Combiners| ]]
[[Category:Fandom]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]

MediaWiki - User contributions [en]

Combiner