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Endgame Pt. III: Seeds of the Future

2014-11-03T09:18:08Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=26
|series2=Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns
|next2=Shock! Of Course We're Doing It! Remix!!
|image=Endgame3 title.jpg
|caption=The Beast Era ends here... till [[Transformers, Beast Wars: The Gathering|the]] [[Transformers: Universe (comic)|comics]] come out.
|title="Endgame Pt. III: Seeds of the Future"
|airdate=[[May 3]], [[2000]]
|written by=[[Bob Skir|Robert N. Skir]]
|directed by=[[William Lau]]
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuty=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''As the last two living Transformers on Cybertron, Optimus Primal and Megatron stage their final battle.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:BMEndgame3 Optimus Megatron begin fight.jpg|left|thumb|200px|Round one. FIGHT!]]
As [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus]] lies defeated, [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] stands gloating over his nemesis. To add insult to injury, Megatron has taken a new body... Primal's Optimal body, minus the [[Alternate mode|beast mode]]. And, to make it just right, Megatron then adds the [[spark]]s of the [[Maximal]]s to the [[spark containment unit]]. Enraged, Optimus fights back, but Megatron punches him through the wall to the outside of the [[Grand Mal|big floating head]]. Optimus manages to get in a few more shots, but stops, seeing the sparkless bodies of [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] and [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]]. Megatron takes a moment to rub it in, then attacks.

Primal flees through the city scape, flying a merry little chase, until he reaches a power generator storage area. As Megatron temporarily loses track of his prey, Optimus comes up from behind and destroys several generators. Optimus barely manages to escape the inferno, as Megatron's left arm is thrown out of the flames. After Primal makes a bad pun, Megatron emerges. As Primal jumps into a nearby river, he dives, only to have Megatron follow him in and shoot a hole in the ground, causing them to sink into a whirlpool.

As Optimus wakes up, he realizes he is in the [[Vector Sigma Chamber|chamber]] of the [[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]]. However, the [[technorganic orchard]] has been completely destroyed. Worse for Primal, he sees [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] and [[Botanica (BM)|Botanica]]'s sparkless bodies, lying on the ground, with their hands stretched toward each other. Megatron then arrives, and takes him to the surface.

[[Image:BMEndgame3 Sparks released.jpg|right|thumb|200px|It's like Chinese New Year, only I'm using the souls of your friends as fireworks!]]
Heading toward the [[Council Citadel]], Megatron activates a throne built into the Citadel to appear, then opens the spark chamber, absorbing the sparks and preparing to ascend to supplant the [[Allspark|Matrix]] and achieve Godhood. As the sparks enter his body, Megatron grows in size. Primal tries to talk, saying that each spark is but a part of the Matrix and that together, they add to its totality. Megatron then activates the [[Key to Vector Sigma]], to be used against the [[organic core]]. However, Megatron cannot fully activate the Oracle, as he and Primal are linked. Megatron then severs the link, and Primal fears that he has failed.

[[Image:The Fall NNNNNOOOOOOO.JPG|left|180px|thumb|So Megatron spends half the episode flying around the planet with Primal, and he ''falls'' to his death?]]
However, the sparks of his comrades speak to him, inspiring him on. Shooting a beam at Megatron's throne, vines extend and grab Megatron's arms. Primal then tries to push him into the core. However, Megatron grabs hold of Optimus, who merely shoots off Megatron's fingers to sever the vine, allowing them both to fall into the core. As they plummet, Primal bids Megatron farewell. Upon impact with the core, both Optimus and Megatron [[The many deaths of Optimus Prime|die]] in a flash of light. From space, a bright light rises, then begins to cover the surface of [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]].

[[Image:Maximals endofBMac.JPG|right|180px|thumb|Isn't this show over yet?!?]]
Waking up, the Maximals find themselves on a technorganic world, which they realize is Cybertron. Rattrap is somewhat worried, then Botanica appears, and he jumps into her arms. As Silverbolt sweeps Blackarachnia off her feet, [[Waspinator (BW)|Waspinator]] appears as a tiny, [[technorganic]] wasp, pissed that he's been screwed over again. Then, the Oracle shows [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] a vision of Optimus Primal's spark, flying away, telling him to "transform, and transcend". As it fades, Cheetor mutters that he understands. In the distance, the freed Transformers, their sparks once again in bodies, run over the horizon, ready to assume control of the newly technorganic Cybertron.

[['Til all are one]].

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s|c1=
* [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (1)
* [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (4)
* [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] (5)
* [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (7)
* [[Botanica (BM)|Botanica]] (8)
* [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (9)
* [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (10)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]]|c2=
* [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (2)
* [[Diagnostic Drone]]s (3)
* [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (6)

|h3=[[Predacon (BW)|Predacons]]|c3=
* [[Waspinator (BW)|Waspinator]] (11)

}}

==Quotes==
"So, Optimus Primal, it all comes down to you and me. Or should I say, you and ''you''?"
:—'''Megatron''' notes the irony in fighting Optimus with a copy of his own previous body.

"My great ascension is finally complete! '''YEEEEESSSS!'''"
:—'''Megatron''' brings an old catchphrase back into style.

"What are you doing?!" 
"Planting the seeds of the future. We must seek the balance, Megatron. Not only between the organic and the technological, but the balance between eternal enemies. Between you and I!"
:—'''Megatron''' and '''Optimus Primal'''. One good thing about the last episode, no more Optimus speeches.

"The Great Transformation awaits, Megatron. Prepare to be... reformatted." 
"NOOOOOOOOOOO!"
:—'''Optimus Primal''''s and '''Megatron''''s last words. (Until ''Universe'', that is.)

[[Image:Wazzpinator.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Still better than being possessed by Starscream.]]
"The menace has passed. Now we can truly be together, dark venom of my heart." 
"Oh, of all the corny..."
:—'''Silverbolt''''s attempt to woo '''Blackarachnia''' almost fails until she realizes that she doesn't care.

"Waspinator want glory, Waspinator want power! And what does Waspinator get?! (Waspinator gets swatted away by Rattrap) Waspinator never gets what Waspinator wants!
:—'''Poor old Waspinator''', who now is the size of a regular wasp and has Thrust's head.

"At long last. Transform your destiny. Transform and... transcend." 
"I... understand."
:—The '''Oracle''' and '''Cheetor'''

==Notes==
===Technical and animation errors===
* The freed Transformers that appear at the end of the episode have pretty weird running animations. They are running forward, but their legs are moving as if they're running sideways.
* The first time Megatron uses his jet mode, his spark is colored blue instead of red.
* As Silverbolt delivers his final line, his right pupil is strangely shifted to the side, giving him an awkward stare.

===Continuity errors===
* When Megatron blasts Optimus out of the Spark Chamber room, the deactivated body of Thrust is seen right next to those of Silverbolt and Blackarachnia. The problem with this is that Silverbolt and Blackarachnia were deactivated ''outside'' of the base, whereas Thrust was deactivated by Cheetor inside the anti-gravity engine room in the previous episode. Though that doesn't necessarily preclude the possibility that Megatron's drones moved the empty shells.
* In "[[Nemesis Part 1]]" it's implied Optimus can't go underwater as [[Depth Charge (BW)|Depth Charge]] has to track Megatron alone, but in this episode Megatron, using a copy of Optimus's "optimal" form is able to go underwater with ease.
* Megatron had both a flying robot mode and a jet mode to his disposal. Why couldn't he of escaped falling into the organic core by just flying out of there?

===Transformers references===
*While in his vehicle modes, Megatron stores his spark in his cockpit. This is the same place that Primal stored the original [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime's]] spark during "[[Optimal Situation]]".
*Megatron uses all of Optimal Optimus's modes (minus his removed beast mode) during this episode, arguably with greater efficiency than Primal did.
*In a truly beautiful irony, Megatron's final word is "Noooo!"

===Trivia===
*The Oracle makes contact with Cheetor towards the end of the episode. This is later played on in the comics, where later stories would establish Cheetor as a [[Matrix Templar]] alongside [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus]] and [[Snarl (BM)|Snarl]]. Also the very last line spoken is by Cheetor. Cheetor also got the very first line in Beast Wars, so this works as a bookend to the entire Beast Era, as well as signifying Cheetor's progression from naive rookie to capable commander.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Bataille Finale (Partie 3)'''" ("Final Battle (Part 3)")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

:*''Title:'' "'''Fin du Jeu p3: La Graine du Futur'''" (Canada, "End of the Game p3: The Seed of the Future")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Mirai no Yukue'''" (未来の行方, "The Course of the Future")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[January 30]], [[2005]]
::The events of the ''[[Beast Wars Reborn]]'' text stories continue the tale of Optimus and Megatron after their deaths (in Japanese continuity, anyway).

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Juego Final Parte 3: Las Semillas del Futuro'''"
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Russian'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Konets Igry (Chast 3): Semena Budushchego'''" ("End of the Game (Part 3): Seeds of the Future")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2005 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 7 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season Two: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season Two (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 2 (Sony) — French audio only.

[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

Endgame Pt. II: When Legends Fall

2014-11-03T09:17:36Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=25
|image=Spark colors.jpg
|caption=Getting the Maximals breast implants wasn't one of Primal's better ideas.
|title="Endgame Pt. II: When Legends Fall"
|airdate=[[April 26]], 2000
|written by=[[Steven Melching]]
|directed by=[[George Samilski]]
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuty=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''The Maximals make their last stand against Megatron and his Vehicon army.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:BMEndgame2 Optimus allspark vision.jpg|left|thumb|200px|Looks like somebody found [[Beachcomber (Animated)|Beachcomber's]] stash.]]
Drones and Generals surround the [[Grand Mal|Big Floating Head]]. The Generals question whether anyone survived, but [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] can sense [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Primal]]'s [[Spark]]. His orders are simple: capture the Sparks, destroy the [[Maximal]]s. Megatron confers with a [[Diagnostic Drone]] on the status of his new body.

The [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]] initiate field repairs on all drones, which buys the Maximals time. [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] despairs; they're utterly without power. But [[Botanica (BM)|Botanica]] unmelts out of the floor; she's found a power conduit they can tap into. Rattrap is overjoyed to see... the power supply. Yeah! [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] notes that they get only one shot; they'll be cut off as soon as the power flow is detected. As the Vehicons move in, the Maximals prepare their final defenses. [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] and Silverbolt share a quiet moment before the battle begins, as do Rattrap and Botanica.

Primal pays a visit to the Spark chamber, calling upon the [[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]] one final time. A Spark-filled vision overtakes him, and the Oracle speaks: "You already have the wisdom, along with the strength of your convictions." And the Sparks speak as one, offering their strength. When he returns to where [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] is working, he has a Spark-colored glow about him; the other Maximals receive a similar Spark boost.

The group steps outside, where Optimus gives one final pep talk. A holographic Megatron-head presents itself to them just then, offering to relieve them of their Sparks painlessly. The Maximals are having none of it, so the Vehicons move in.

[[Image:BMEndgame2 Optimus spark power.jpg|right|thumb|200px|IT'S OVER 9000!]]
The Maximals wait a moment, then activate the shield, causing the first wave of drones to crash and explode. When the Generals try their harmonics trick again, they discover that the harmonics are changing randomly. The Vehicons resort to a kamikaze strategy, drones ramming the shield to deplete it. It doesn't take long for the shield to go down, and the battle is joined.

No words, no sounds, just ominous music as the Maximals deploy everything they've got, before falling back to the ship's entry point.

Far below the surface, a group of mole miners suddenly burst into the orchard chamber, and proceeds to destroy it. It doesn't take Botanica long to notice this: she reels in pain. She hauls [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] and Rattrap underground to go fight the drones.

Three tank drones, carried in by copter drones, manage to get through the Maximals; Primal goes after them. Botanica's group finishes a harrowing decent and immediately finds themselves under mole miner attack. They dispose of them, Rattrap commandeering one and using it to total another. Nightscream goes after another mole that's heading for the fossil chamber and destroys it, only to have another pop up in its place. Above, another mole unleashes a napalm-style attack on the orchard, intending to burn the DNA out of existence.

Elsewhere, Megatron's new body is complete...

Primal chases the tank drones through the Grand Mal. He blows up one... and when he rounds a corner to find the others waiting for him, the Sparks within him begin to glow... and surround him... and then vaporize the tanks. The other Maximals find the same happening to them, and drones are vaped left and right, both above and below the surface.

But part of the Oracle is Megatron's, and he cuts the connection. The Maximals' Spark boost is cut short.

[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]], meanwhile, singles out Silverbolt for attack, prepared to deal with the "traitor". Thrust drops him and blasts a radio tower down on him. Blackarachnia is prepared to take vengeance, till [[Obsidian (BM)|Obsidian]] drops her from behind.

[[Image:BMEndgame2 Obsidian Strika in space.jpg|left|thumb|200px|Now look what you've gotten us into.]]
As Primal finds himself Sparkless and prepares to deal with the tank drones the "old fashioned way", a battle-worn Cheetor confronts all three Generals solo. They fire; when the smoke clears, only a hole in the ground is left. The Generals move in, blasting into the Grand Mal. They enter into darkness within. Suddenly, massive machinery activates, as Cheetor brings the anti-gravity generators on-line. Cheetor rises from the shadows, as a roof hatch opens above the Generals. Thrust has presence of mind to scoot, but Obsidian and [[Strika (BM)|Strika]] are blasted up and away, all the way to orbital space.

Megatron tries out his new body in a shadow-filled, nasty room. He is alive again!

Cheetor confronts Thrust. Thrust pulls out a Spark extractor... and derisively tosses it aside. As they battle, Cheetor gets tossed aside, then grapple-hooked. But as he's dragged along, he grabs Thrust's discarded Spark extractor, and turns it on Thrust. Thrust's body falls and his lights switch out. Victorious, Cheetor looks up and sees a shadow: "Big Bot?" he asks, confused. But it's Megatron, who zaps him.

[[Image:BMEndgame2 Optimal megatron.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Megatron tries his hand at Transformers cosplay.]]
Optimus soon finds himself confronting the new Megatron, who blasts him with a glowing light from one extended hand. Now wearing the Optimal Optimus body form, with a slightly-altered face, Megatron then steps out of the shadows to stand over his enemy. He tells Primal that the day of the Maximals is at an end.

Elsewhere, drones begin hauling out Spark extractors, and de-sparking the various downed Maximals. Megatron tells Optimus that now... it's his turn.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s|c1=
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (7)
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (8)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (9)
*[[Botanica (BM)|Botanica]] (10)
*[[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] (11)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (12)
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (13)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]]|c2=
*[[Copter Drone]]s (1)
*[[Obsidian (BM)|Obsidian]] (2)
*[[Strika (BM)|Strika]] (3)
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (4)
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (5)
*[[Diagnostic Drone]] (6)
*[[Tank Drone]]s (14)
*[[Motorcycle Drone]]s (15)
*[[Heavy Artillery Drone]]s (16)
*[[Aero Drone]]s (17)
*[[Vehicon Mole]]s (18)

|c4=
*[[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]] (14)

}}
==Quotes==
"Botanica! Am I glad to see... you've brought us this new power supply."
:—'''Rattrap''' isn't fooling anyone.

"I already lost you once. I won't lose you again." 
"No matter what happens, we will be together...forever."
:—'''Blackarachnia''' and '''Silverbolt''' prepare for the final battle.

"Very swank, but what can they do?" 
"Provide us with the key to victory."
:—'''Blackarachnia''' admires the new hole in her chest and '''Optimus''' is typically cryptic.

"Greetings, Maximals. You cannot win, but there is no need for you to suffer. Surrender your sparks and the nightmare will end." 
"You want our sparks, Megatron, come and get 'em!" 
"...So be it."
:—'''Megatron''' and '''Optimus''', just before all hell breaks loose.

"Ooh, sleek exterior...nice handling!"
:—'''Rattrap''' takes a mole drone for a test drive...straight through another one.

"Let me show you how we deal with traitors, Jetstorm." 
"My. Name. Is. SILVERBOLT!"
:—'''Thrust''' and '''Silverbolt'''

"As long as my spark burns, I'll fight for the freedom of every Transformer, even you!"
:—'''Cheetor''' to Thrust

"I'm alive! Aliiive! Mwaaahaaahaa! '''Yeessss.'''"
:—'''Megatron'''. ''Finally.''

==Notes==

===Transformers References===
*This episode contains the first instance of a Diagnostic Drone speaking since the one from the first season was destroyed. It has the same voice as that one, but without the emotive qualities.
*Megatron's new body is based on Optimus Primal's third body from Beast Wars, the "Optimal Optimus" form, except with Megatron's Transmetal (or Transmetal 2) face underneath the helmet.
*Megatron is back to saying "Yesss." Yay.

===Trivia===
*Cheetor's fight in this episode acts as a book end to his first battle in ''[[Beast Wars: Transformers (cartoon)|Beast Wars]]''. In the first series, he is head-strong, gets into a one-on-one fight he has to struggle through due to inexperience and only survives because of the others' arrival. Here, he still struggles, but is much smarter about his approach and emerges victorious all on his own. Additionally, his final opponent is Thrust, who is really Waspinator - his first opponent in Beast Wars.

===Continuity Errors===
*Previously Megatron was strongly against transferring his spark to avoid vulnerability, but in this episode he is okay with it, without explanation.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Bataille Finale (Partie 2)'''" ("Final Battle (Part 2)")

:*''Title:'' "'''Fin du Jeu p2: La Légende Tombe'''" (Canada, "End of the Game p2: The Legend Falls")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Kibō no Shūshifu'''" (希望の終止符, "Hope's End")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[January 29]], [[2005]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Juego Final Parte 2: Cuando las Leyendas Caen'''" ("Final Game Part 2: When Legends Fall")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2005 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 7 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season Two: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season Two (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 2 (Sony) — French audio only.

[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

Endgame Pt. I: The Downward Spiral

2014-11-03T09:17:22Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{disambig2|the ''Beast Machines'' episode|the ''Animated'' episode|Endgame, Part I}}

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=24
|title="Endgame Pt. I: The Downward Spiral"
|image=BMEndgame1 Rattrap Botanica dying.jpg
|caption=I ''knew'' I should have watered my girlfriend more often!
|airdate=[[April 19]], 2000
|written by=[[Michael Reaves]]
|directed by=[[Angela Stevenson]]
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuty=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''Under siege inside Megatron's floating fortress, the Maximals must protect the captive sparks against Megatron's final attack.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:BMEndgame1 Megadrone plans.jpg|left|thumb|200px|Oh, what delicious irony.]]
Legions of drones roll across [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], while still more of the things are created at an automated plant. But it's not enough: [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] orders an immediate attack to regain his base. After the Generals depart, Megatron reflects that he needs a better body than a puny [[Diagnostic Drone]], but with no time to design a new one, he requires a template. He finds one that's suitably ironic.

Aboard the [[Grand Mal|big floating head]], [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] and [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] try to convince [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus]] to restore the Sparks to their bodies. But Primal won't risk having Megatron recapture them. [[Botanica (BM)|Botanica]] announces that she has changed the defense grid so Megatron can't remote-access it; [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] sets to work on getting the weapons working. [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] asks, logically, how they're supposed to reformat the planet; Op isn't sure, but says the missing piece of the puzzle lies with the [[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]]. He further explains the Oracle knew about Megatron downloading it, and wanted it to happen... though he hasn't the faintest idea why. Rattrap announces that the weapons are keyed to Megatron's [[Spark]] and are totally inaccessible, as hundreds of drones arrive.

Rattrap whips out his [[scrambled field generator|handy disks]] again, and tosses one at each Maximal. Each affected Maximal suddenly sees the others as a different Maximal. Silverbolt, [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]], and Nightscream move out with the disks to buy the group some time.

Three pods deploy from the big head, revealing Maximal signatures when the drones scan them. But when they're shot down, the pods are empty, a distraction while the Maximals slipped down to the surface.

As [[Obsidian (BM)|Obsidian]] observes that it's some kind of trick, Nightscream tags him with a disk. Obsidian spins to find Blackarachnia and Nightscream standing there. Though his computer reports no Maximal signatures, he quickly destroys three of them — and comes to a puzzled pause as he sees Nightscream again, even though he just blew him away. As the smoke clears, he finds the ruins of three of his own drones; [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] is having similar problems. As the Maximals exult in this triumph, [[Strika (BM)|Strika]] attacks.

[[Image:BMEndgame1 Grand mal under attack.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Even his dandruff is armed to the teeth.]]
Optimus radios Silverbolt, urging him to get his team inside the big head before they raise shields. Silverbolt tells him not to wait... and Optimus reluctantly agrees. Cheetor raises the shield in time for a number of helodrones to plow into it; the remainder surround the big head and attack.

Silverbolt's team uses one of the disks to send Strika chasing after Thrust; after briefly noting the battle going on above, they retreat underground.

Above, the big head's shields are holding, but they're also cutting Botanica off from the organic core, causing her to collapse and Rattrap to panic. Primal notes that if they lower the shields for an instant, they're all doomed.

Obsidian reports that they can't penetrate the shields, but Megatron is confident that their power will run out sooner or later.

Below ground, Silverbolt decides to go after Megatron's drone factories.

The Maximals still have no access to the ship's weapons; Botanica is still faltering. Rattrap comes up with a plan to slip a life pod through the shield by matching its harmonics.

The away team enters Megatron's factory and finds themselves face-to-scanner with Megatron himself. Though he initially repels their attacks with ease, Nightscream uses another disk to distract him long enough to blast some kind of large box, which promptly overloads. The Maximals escape; Megatron tries to stop the inevitable with some controls, but finally just stares slack-armed as the plant goes BOOM.

[[Image:BMEndgame1 Botanica emerges from pod.jpg|left|thumb|200px|Nanu nanu?]]
Silverbolt reports that they've put Megatron out of business and buried him to boot, leaving only the remaining billion or so drones to be defeated. But the shields are sucking up a lot of the big head's power. Rattrap, elsewhere, has loaded Botanica into a pod, which launches from the big head. Silverbolt's group observes as the pod is hit, and springs into action to keep it from crashing. Inside, they find Botanica, who is desperate to rejoin the soil. Her pallor returns as she does so, as a relieved Rattrap observes from above. A squad of Vehicons appears down the road, and the Maximals split.

Megatron is with the squad, and his sensors locate Rattrap's harmonics-matching disk. He radios Obsidian, sending the harmonic frequency to the General.

[[Image:BMEndgame1 Grand mal hits tower.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Oh, giant cybernetic tower. Sometimes I think you're the only one who understands me.]]
The attack that follows goes straight through the shields, to Primal and Cheetor's surprise. Rattrap's reaction—lowered head, slumped shoulders—tells most of the story, but he defends his actions. Primal tries to salvage the situation, but Cheetor bluntly tells him that the defense grid is finished. Rattrap uses the last of the ship's power to erect a stasis field around the [[Spark containment unit]], as the big head begins a long, slow crash that brings it smashing to a halt atop the Citadel.

The Maximals and the Sparks survive the crash, but they're surrounded and without power. Rattrap berates himself for his recklessness, but Primal dismisses it, and vows that Megatron will not retake the Sparks. But it looks grim as a wall of drones rises into the air around the fallen ship.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s|c1=
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (6)
*[[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] (7)
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (8)
*[[Botanica (BM)|Botanica]] (9)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (10)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (11)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (12)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]]|c2=
*[[Copter Drone]]s (1)
*[[Heavy Artillery Drone]]s (2)
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (3)
*[[Obsidian (BM)|Obsidian]] (4)
*[[Strika (BM)|Strika]] (5)
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (13)
*[[Motorcycle Drone]]s (14)
}}

==Quotes==
"Strika, Thrust, the Maximals are up to something." 
[''standing in pile of destroyed Cycle drones''] "Ya think?"
:—'''Obsidian''' and '''Thrust''' on Rattrap's new decoy disks.

"Hey, stop! Are you nuts, lady?!"
:—'''Thrust''', being chased by Strika-courtesy of another decoy disk.

"Don't you ever get tired of losing?"
:—'''Megatron''' commenting on the Maximals' lack of success throughout the series

"Someone underestimated me. Someone thought because I was trapped inside this puny body, I would be easily vanquished. Someone was wrong!" 
"Uh, Mr Megatron, sir? I'm over here!"
:—'''Megatron''' and '''Nightscream'''

"This is it, people. The beginning of the end. And as the Matrix is my witness, Megatron will not get those sparks."
:—'''Optimus Primal'''

==Notes==
* Although he'd shown glimpses of it before, Megatron's gloating to his enemies, maniacal laughter, picking a body purely on irony, and "yesss"-ing seem to indicate a large reversion to his Beast Wars personality. It's about time.

===Animation and technical errors===
*During Megatron's "duet" with Nightscream, the stream of sonic waves hurled at Megatron's force sphere seems to "blot out" part of Megatron, even though both the sphere and the waves are transparent. At the point where the two meet, you can see the background through Megatron.

===Continuity errors===
* Nightscream says that the drones will arrive within "minutes", rather than cycles.
* Perhaps more than any episode of ''Beast Machines'', this one calls out some of the illogical concepts driving much of the series. Primal won't risk releasing the Sparks until Megatron is defeated, because Megatron ''might'' recapture them; yet by passing up the chance to have thousands of additional troops on his side, Primal seems to be making their recapture all the more likely. The real-life answer is that the show's CGI format made it prohibitive to have thousands of extras running around.
* Likewise, why have the Maximals not been targeting the apparently unguarded and very-easy-to-destroy drone factories from Day 1? Real-life answer: it'd be a very short show if they did.
* Cheetor berates Rattrap as if he's caused a total reversal in their situation. Megatron, however, seems quite confident that they'd manage to bring down the Grand Mal regardless. And the Maximals themselves had already noted that the shields were rapidly depleting the ship's power. All Rattrap really did was speed up the inevitable.
* Speaking of the inevitable, if the code to the Maximals' frequency was in a disk easily removable from the pod, just ''why'' couldn't Rattrap have told Botanica or left a note on the pod door to take that disk with her when she'd reach Cybertron?
* How the heck did Megatron survive being at ground zero without a scratch? (Well, his Spark ''is'' all red and evil and mutated and scary...)

===Trivia===
* When Botanica is launched out of the Grand Mal, the characters left on board are [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|the]] [[Rattrap (BW)|only]] [[Cheetor (BW)|ones]] who were allied with the Maximals since the start of the Beast Wars.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Bataille Finale (Partie 1)'''" ("Final Battle (Part 1)")

:*''Title:'' "'''Fin du Jeu p1: Descente en Spirale'''" ("End of the Game p1: Spiral Descent")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Jigoku no Sōkōgeki'''" (地獄の総攻撃, "The Hellish All-out Attack")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[January 23]], [[2005]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Juego Final Parte 1: La Espiral Descendente'''" ("Final Game Part 1: The Downward Sprial")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2005 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 6 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season Two: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season Two (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 2 (Sony) — French audio only.

[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

Spark of Darkness

2014-11-03T09:17:06Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode|
|series=BMtoon
|ep=23
|title="Spark of Darkness"
|image=SparkDarkness.jpg
|caption=Beauty is in the optic of the beholder
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|airdate=[[April 12]], 2000
|writer=[[Nick Dubois]]
|director=[[Greg Donis]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuity=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}

'''Megatron has been defeated, but strange creatures keep attacking the Maximals all over Cybertropolis.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:SparkDarkness Celebrating maximals.jpg|left|thumb|200px|It's Miller time!]]
The [[Maximal]]s celebrate the defeat of [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] inside the now-dormant [[Grand Mal]]. But while most of the group high-five each other, [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] mourns the loss of his pet, [[Noble (BM)|Savage/Noble]]. [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] wonders if Megatron is truly defeated, but [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Primal]] assures his team that he knows Megatron is dead, thanks to their mutual connection to the [[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]]. When [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] mentions there's still business to be taken care of, [[Botanica (BM)|Botanica]] responds she feels there's another evil on Cybertron.

Cheetor and Nightscream are sent to find the [[Vehicon general]]s. Silverbolt and [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] are sent to assess the dormant Transformer bodies to start the process of getting the sparks Megatron kidnapped to function again. Rattrap and Botanica are assigned to attend the techno-organic orchard. [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]], of course, whines about this. As he does this, he moans that he feels his talents are being wasted and he'll be stuck with embarrassing stories to tell his grandkids. Botanica argues that tending the garden is important. The debate between the two heats up, and in their rage, the two Maximals accidentally touch lips. The two quickly agree to completely disregard, forget, and ignore their contact and get to work. Optimus stays in the Grand Mal.

[[Image:SparkDarkness Blackarachnia zombie.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Supreme Class kitbashing gone horribly, horribly wrong.]]
At the shell yard, Blackarachnia tries to put the moves on Silverbolt, but without confirmation that Megatron is truly really dead, he's extremely hesitant to respond to her advances. At this, Blackarachnia finally loses patience, and begins berating Silverbolt for his obsessiveness. She's so focused on Silverbolt that only he notices the large, lumbering monster emerge behind her. The two Maximals run away (cowardly) from the giant, but when the monster hits Silverbolt with gunfire, Blackarachnia fights back with her electric sting. The monster knocks her over, but Silverbolt has had time to recover and attacks the monster with his throwing blades. Eventually, Blackarachnia has the idea to attack the monster using an explosive component from one of the nearby Transformer bodies. The behemoth steps out of the explosion, and the two Transformers watch a strange red spark emerge from the monster as it falls over in defeat. The red glow races away.

In the orchard, while Botanica works, Rattrap scavenges parts of a [[Motorcycle Drone]] to see if anything can be made into a useful tool. But suddenly, the deactivated Cycle Drone comes to life and begins to blast the orchard. Botanica, upset about the carnage, transforms and uses her bolts to bring heavy wreckage crashing down upon the possessed drone. The drone flails its body one last time before falling over, no longer inhabited by the glowing red spark.

Cheetor and Nightscream meet with [[Strika (BM)|Strika]] and [[Obsidian (BM)|Obsidian]] and invite the two generals to join the Maximals. As the two generals debate, [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] stops by to make it clear that he has no interest in joining with the Maximals and that he believes that Megatron, "The Big M," will soon return. After Thrust leaves, the remaining four are attacked by a damaged but resilient [[Aero Drone]]. Nightscream sucks the energy from the drone, but the monster still tries to pull Cheetor over the edge of a nearby cliff. Cheetor is saved by Nightscream and the drone falls, but before it makes impact with the water below, the glowing red spark leaves the body.

[[Image:SparkDarkness Rattrap repolarising.jpg|left|thumb|200px|Rattrap's audition for the new [[Susan Hoffman#Related characters|Ghostbusters]] movie went surprisingly well.]]
The group returns to meet with the other Maximals (sans Botanica) inside the Grand Mal, and Optimus welcomes Strika and Obsidian to the team. The two new recruits leave to fortify the base—just in time for Rattrap to detect the haunting red spark heading right towards them all. Inside, the spark passes by the two generals and briefly encounters Cheetor and Blackarachnia. Next, the spark uses a [[Tank Drone]] body to attack Optimus and Botanica. While Rattrap tracks the movement of the Spark, he deduces a way to neutralize its rampage.

Rattrap uses a Spark Extractor on the Tank Drone to draw out the spark. Once the red spark is contained, he "re-polarizes" his captive, but the Spark Extractor flies alive, trying to break free of Rattrap's grip. After escaping the spark extractor, the spark flies into a [[Diagnostic Drone]] and, finally coherent, exclaims "I live!" But Rattrap has the next laugh: The spark, who is clearly Megatron, is now trapped inside of the diminutive body.

[[Image:SparkDarkness Megadrone Optimus.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Oh, don't look at me like that. There are [[Kiss_Players|far worse]] things that I could be doing to you right now.]]
The Maximals meet Megatron, but he laughs at them. Even in his tiny form, he's able to reactivate the Grand Mal's internal defenses to evict the Maximals. As the Maximals struggle against the tentacles that have begun to bind them, Primal has an Oracle moment, but the Maximals are all captured anyway. Megatron starts to reformat Primal's spark, but Rattrap gets Botanica to destroy the control panel, freeing the team from Megatron's grip.

Obsidian arrives at the fight scene and is forced to choose: Be loyal to Primal's or Megatron's side. The two generals grab Megatron and fall out of sight. Out of immediate danger, Optimus explains that Nightscream didn't kill Megatron, but only turned Megatron into the monster that he was but no longer is.

Away from the battle, Strika, Obsidian and Megatron meet up with Thrust. Enraged that he was pulled out of battle and refusing to accept a withdrawal was sensible, Megatron growls that at least Obsidian and Strika weren't "''useless''" like Thrust; Obsidian admits that it was Thrust who reminded them that their true loyalties lay with Megatron. No longer in control of the Sparks, Megatron declares, "The time for action is now."

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s|c1=
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (1)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (2)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (3)
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (4)
*[[Botanica (BM)|Botanica]] (5)
*[[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] (6)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (7)
|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]]|c2=
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Evil Red Spark]] (8)
*[[Copter Drone]]s (9)
*[[Obsidian (BM)|Obsidian]] (10)
*[[Strika (BM)|Strika]] (11)
*[[Heavy Artillery Drone]]s (12)
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (13)
}}

==Quotes==
"So, eh, whatcha got for me and Miss Twiggy? A "teak and destroy" mission? Or maybe some "oak and dagger" work?"
:—'''Rattrap''' comes up with some evil puns.

Little girl voice: And what'd you do in the war, Daddy? 
Rattrap voice: Well, honey, I made ''gardening equipment'' to help the troops plant petunias! 
Little girl voice: ''Really'', Daddy?! 
:—'''Rattrap''' expresses how much he hates his job and Scott McNeil gets to talk to himself. Uh... [[Dinobot (BW)|Some]] [[Silverbolt (BW)|more]].

"What would you rather be doing, sticking your tail into a computer circuit?" 
"Heh, beats the heck outta plowing ''your'' little field of dreams."
:—"Innuendo 101" with '''Botanica''' and '''Rattrap'''

"You shall not pass!" 
[''Red spark passes without pause'']
:—'''Strika''' makes a very poor Gandalf.

"Aw man, I can't believe I'm stuck here while a really honked-off ball of electrons is making mince-meat outta my buddies."
:—'''Rattrap''' complaining again.

"I live! I live! I—...what kind of puny body is this?!" 
:—'''Megatron''' discovers he's in a diagnostic drone. Now that's karma.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*As Primal is welcoming Obsidian and Strika to the team, Obsidian is rendered with flat colors instead of textures.

===Transformers references===
*The shell that attacks Silverbolt and Blackarachnia is composed of parts from [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]] combatants. The feet, torso, and right arm belong to the transmetalized [[Tarantulas (BW)|Tarantulas]] and the head bears a strong resemblance to the original [[Dinobot (BW)|Dinobot]], with Tigerhawk's eyes. What were Tarantulas, Dinobot, and Tigerhawk ''doing'' on Cybertron anyway?
*Precisely 5 minutes and 3 seconds into the episode, immediately after Blackarachnia says, "Whoever you are, THAT was a big mistake!", one can see the severed head of [[Depth Charge (BW)|Depth Charge]] lying behind her.
*Even later on in the episode, when Silverbolt trips over battling the mutant, Blackarachnia proceeds to rip out the power core from what appears to be [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]]'s body.

===Real-world references===
*This episode's title is a play on [[Wikipedia:Joseph Conrad|Joseph Conrad]]'s novella ''[[wikipedia:Heart of Darkness|Heart of Darkness]]''.
*When Cheetor asks Thrust what he's rebelling against now that Megatron is gone, Thrust replies "What've you got?", the reply given by Marlon Brando's character in ''[[Wikipedia:The Wild One|The Wild One]]''. Fitting.
*The sequence where Optimus Primal and Botanica are first ambushed is also a visual quote from the original ''[[Wikipedia:Alien (film)|Alien]]''.
*Similarly, the scene where Blackarachnia and Silverbolt draw together in the foreground for a moment of intimacy after they think they have destroyed the junkyard mutant, only for it to emerge from the wall of fire in the background is an homage to the penultimate sequence from ''[[Wikipedia:The Terminator (film)|The Terminator]]''.
*When Obsidian and Strika attempt to intercept the red spark, Strika exclaims "You shall not pass!", a possible reference to Gandalf's words in ''[[Wikipedia:The Lord of the Rings|The Lord of the Rings]]''.
*Botanica refers to the technorganic orchard as her "[[Wikipedia:Field of Dreams|Field of Dreams]]".
*A young child asking dad what ''he'' did in the war was the subject of an iconic [[United Kingdom|British]] [http://www.iwmshop.org.uk/product/18697/Daddy_What_did_You_do_Poster World War 1 propaganda poster], while the specific wording Rattrap uses is the title for a [[wikipedia:What Did You Do in the War, Daddy?|1966 Blake Edwards film]].

===Trivia===
*The short story "[[Singularity Ablyss]]" by [[Bob Skir]], published in the ''[[Transformers Legends (book)|Transformers Legends]]'' anthology, is set between-the-scenes of this episode. It doesn't change the events of the episode, but it does illuminate what Megatron may have been thinking in the midst of all that body-jumping; also, he kills [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]].
*Once Megatron's spark enters the [[Diagnostic Drone]] body, the optics resemble that of his [[Grand Mal]] vessel.
*"I will brook no failure — not from anyone not for any reason" appears to be a motto of Megatron's.
* The events of this episode are strongly reminiscent of "[[Savage Noble]]" and "[[Prometheus Unbound]]". In both cases, Megatron has apparently been defeated, the Maximals go recruiting among the Vehicons, a strange beastie starts attacking all and sundry, and—surprise—it turns out to be Megatron in a new body. (The similarity is even ''commented upon'' by Thrust.) It's especially annoying that "Prometheus Unbound" was only seven episodes before this one.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Obscurité'''" ("Obscurity")

:*''Title:'' "'''La Sombre Étincelle'''" ("The Dark Spark")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Kyōfu no Akai Tama'''" (恐怖の赤い玉, "The Terrifying Red Sphere")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[January 22]], [[2005]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Chispa de Oscuridad'''" ("Spark of Darkness")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2005 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 6 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season Two: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season Two (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 2 (Sony) — French audio only.

[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

Sparkwar Pt. III: The Siege

2014-11-03T09:16:46Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=22
|image=Spark consumption.jpg
|caption=Om nom nom nom
|title="Sparkwar Pt. III: The Siege"
|airdate=[[April 5]], 2000
|written by=[[Steven Melching]]
|directed by=[[Luke Carroll]]
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuty=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''Having found the imprisoned sparks, the Maximals have to race against time to stop Megatron from consuming them and becoming a god.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] flaps along beneath a Cybertronian moon, evading hordes of drones. He meets up with [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] and [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]]. [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]]'s [[Grand Mal|big floating head]] is hovering over the central spaceport, and the Maximals wonder how they can put a stop to whatever Megatron is re-supplying for.

[[Image:Sparkwar3 Noble Nightscream.jpg|left|thumb|200px|You can turn away and scowl all you want, but it's still bath time, ''mister.'']]
[[Obsidian (BM)|Obsidian]] and [[Strika (BM)|Strika]] are nearby, ordering troop movements, when a familiar howl sounds. It's [[Noble (BM)|Noble]], who obliviously strolls up to the Maximals' hiding spot in plain sight, leading the drones right to them. Cheetor orders a retreat, as they're on recon; the group disposes of their attackers and begins to leave. But despite Nightscream's pleadings, Noble continues fighting. Nightscream finally fires off a sonic burst that destroys Noble's attackers, and the beast retreats along with them.

Cheetor admonishes Nightscream over his "little pet" nearly getting them killed, and orders him to cut the creature loose. Nightscream reluctantly heads in the other direction, with Noble following like a puppy.

Later, [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus]] reminds Cheetor and [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] of their upcoming mission's importance. Rattrap wonders if they could get away with a Trojan horse gimmick. The others, and the audience, look at him like he's nuts.

Cheetor, Nightscream, and [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] are to distract the Vehicons; the rest go to infiltrate the big head and free the Sparks. Rattrap offers up his disks again, new and improved this time. As the group heads out, Cheetor coughs meaningfully and nods in Noble's direction. Optimus responds with a look to Nightscream, who reluctantly shoos him away. Noble departs with a puppy-like whimper, and the group moves out.

Thrust reports to Megatron, who manifests himself in the form of his glowing red Spark. Megatron opens the Spark containment grid, releasing a pair of drifting Sparks. Energy shoots out from Megatron... and the Sparks are consumed, absorbed into his own, as Thrust watches dumbfounded. Megatron testily demands [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]]'s report, while gobbling up a couple more Sparks. The Maximals no longer concern him, he tells his General; he's mastered the secrets of the Oracle, and nothing can stop his grand ascension now.

[[Image:Sparkwar3 Obsidian drones.jpg|right|thumb|200px|I'm not cleaning this up.]]
On the surface, Nightscream and company initiate their "noisy distraction". Optimus's group tries out Rattrap's scramblers, which seem to work, and leap aboard a hovertransport that's heading for the big head. The distraction group, elsewhere, plays a game of cat and mouse with the drones. Cheetor slaps a disk on one of the drones, causing the others to read it as a Maximal, and blast it to scrap. Silverbolt is impressed.

The generals examine the wrecked drones, and find one of the disks. Primal and company, meanwhile, have infiltrated the big head. Primal listens to the voices in his head — literally — which direct him toward the Sparks.

Strika figures out how to reconfigure the device's harmonics, causing feedback to overloading all of the other disks. A moment later, the Maximals are picked up by the big head's sensors. Thrust soon arrives to attack. The distraction team soon finds themselves similarly occupied.

Rattrap gets the Maximals through a doorway, then seals it before Thrust can follow. The group finds themselves in a large round chamber with a seal at the bottom... a seal which opens to reveal a [[spark containment unit|huge canister full of glowing, seething Sparks]]. The canister rises to meet the orange-red form of Megatron above. He's pleased to see the team; tentacles lash out and snare the group.

Megatron initiates his trans-ascension, chomping down on a few more Sparks. He intends to unite every Spark on Cybertron into one, perfect being — himself. The containment unit opens, and the Sparks drift upwards. Optimus entreats them to resist, but Megatron just laughs.

[[Image:Giant megatron spark.jpg|left|thumb|200px]]
On the surface, all the combatants stop and stare as Megatron's ultra-Spark rises out from the big head. Megatron lashes out with energy beams that suspend the Maximals in mid-air and begin to draw out their Sparks. Nightscream manages to evade the beams momentarily, till he trips on a fallen drone. But as the beam begins to drag him away, he sees Noble lurching towards him. Strika sees him too, and orders her drones to attack. But the mighty beast is too much for the drones. Obsidian and Strika are bested as well. Noble reverts to Savage and blasts the beam holding Nightscream, freeing him. Savage launches, heading for Megatron, but Megatron zaps him, knocking him out of the sky. Savage falls and hits the ground hard. He reverts to Noble, and dies cradled in Nightscream's arms.

[[Image:Sparkwar3 Dead noble.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Oh, no. Don't think playing dead's going to save you from the tub, either!]]
Nightscream, infuriated, blasts Megatron with his sonic weapon. The blast disrupts Megatron's hold on the Maximals, the captive Sparks, and himself, too, as he howls in agony. The Sparks begin falling back into the containment unit, and the big head begins to plummet. The Maximals quickly work to gain control of the vessel; Rattrap extends a bridge to a control center, and finds the manual control system. The head falls from view... then rises again. Cheetor and Silverbolt are briefly exultant, till they turn back to Nightscream, still kneeling beside Noble.

The group gathers around a holo-image of the slain beast, as Optimus eulogizes the creature who bought them their victory with his life. But elsewhere on the empty streets of Cybertron, Megatron's orange-red Spark can be seen flitting through the shadows.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s|c1=
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (1)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (4)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (5)
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (10)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (11)
*[[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] (13)
*[[Botanica (BM)|Botanica]] (14)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]]|c2=
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (2)
*[[Heavy Artillery Drone]]s (3)
*[[Copter Drone]]s (6)
*[[Obsidian (BM)|Obsidian]] (7)
*[[Strika (BM)|Strika]] (8)
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (12)
*[[Motorcycle Drone]]s (15)

|c4=
*[[Noble (BM)|Noble]] (9)

}}
==Quotes==
"The Maximals no longer concern me. I have mastered the secrets of the Oracle and now no force in the universe can prevent my ascension!"
:—'''Megatron''' enters his megalomaniacal phase. Again.

"If anyone knows how to cause confusion, it's our little Rattrap."
:—'''Silverbolt''' sums up Rattrap's character in one sentence.

"The sparks! What are you doing?!" 
"Fulfilling my destiny, Optimus Primal. Uniting every spark on Cybertron into one perfect being — me."
:—'''Optimus''' and '''Megatron'''

"Abandon head!!!"
:—'''Rattrap''' keeps in mind his location in times of crisis.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*Blackarachnia pulls an impressive stunt. When attacking the heavy artillery drones, she somersaults forward, but her right leg spins backwards, clipping through her entire body.

===Transformers references===
*When calling the sparks to him, Megatron says "[['Til all are one|let us all become one]]!"

===Real-world references===
* Rattrap at one point suggests pulling the [[wikipedia:Trojan Horse|Trojan Horse]] trick on Megatron.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''La Guerre des Étincelles (Partie 3)'''" ("The War of the Sparks (Part 3)")

:*''Title:'' "'''Guerre des Étincelles p3: La Finale'''" (Canada, "War of the Sparks Pt.3: The Finale")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Eien no Yūjō'''" (永遠の友情, "Eternal Friendship")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[January 16]], [[2005]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Guerra de Chispas Parte 3: El Asedio'''" ("Sparkwar Part 3: The Siege")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2005 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 6 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season Two: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season Two (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 2 (Sony) — French audio only.

[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

Sparkwar Pt. II: The Search

2014-11-03T09:16:33Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=21
|image=Sparkwar2 Optimus hologram primal.jpg
|caption="Wait, if you're Optimus Prime, why do you have a mouth?" "All the better to eat you with, my dear Primal!"
|title="Sparkwar Pt. II: The Search"
|airdate=[[March 29]], 2000
|written by=[[Michael Reaves]]
|directed by=[[Gino Nichele]]
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuty=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}

'''The Maximals continue their search for the missing sparks.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]]'s fascist planet is being patrolled by legions of the new drones as the [[Maximal]]s, in beast mode, make their way along the lower levels of the surface. They observe that Megatron is fortifying his position. [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus]] has a jolting vision of the drifting [[Spark]]s, apparently the [[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]] contacting him about the Sparks, which have been moved.

Within the [[Grand Mal|big floating head]], Megatron speaks to his three generals, directing them to locations where the Maximals will be, and instructing them to capture Optimus alive.

[[Image:Sparkwar2 Rattrap generators.jpg|left|thumb|200px|"I nicked this out of [[Iron Man|Tony Stark]]'s chest."]]
[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] introduces the team to his [[scrambled field generator]] devices, small disks intended to befuddle the Vehicons' sensors. Rattrap's not ''quite'' sure they'll work, but the team figures it's better than nothing. The group tries them out, changing to robot modes... then dives for cover as [[Obsidian (BM)|Obsidian]] passes by overhead. But the general doesn't notice them, instead moving to carry out his orders along with [[Strika (BM)|Strika]].

Optimus tells the group that his flashes were of familiar places, and splits them up into three teams to go investigate. Rattrap and [[Botanica (BM)|Botanica]] aren't too happy at being paired up, but the group deploys as ordered.

At the Maximal shell yard just outside processing plant #57, [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]], [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] and [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] move in. Silverbolt is not interested in taking orders from Cheetor, despite Blackarachnia's assurance that a ''lot'' has changed since they were parted. Obsidian, watching from concealment, prepares his strike force.

As Optimus and [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] walk below the surface, Nightscream finds a familiar claw slash in the wall. Nightscream wants to find [[Noble (BM)|Noble]], but Primal gently persuades him to take one job at a time. They run into a cave-in around the corner; Op's eyes flash with white light, and, glancing at a floor hatch, he says they're heading down...

Rattrap and Botanica arrive outside the Citadel, still squabbling. Rattrap detects a massive positronic residual charge, but inside they find piles and piles of Spark canisters... empty. They've arrived here too late. They depart, only to be ambushed by Strika. Botanica is chagrined that Rattrap's scramblers didn't work very long; they fall back.

Obsidian observes from high above as the Maximals explore the shell complex. Silverbolt and Cheetor argue over the latter's leadership capabilities, till Obsidian attacks. Surrounded, Silverbolt decides a berserker head-on attack is the only option.

[[Image:Sparkwar2 Maximals over iacon.jpg|right|thumb|200px|"The decaying ruins of Old New York... This place brings back a lot of memories-" "Keep 'em to yourself, Pops."]]
Optimus and Nightscream, meanwhile, have found a stunning ruin below the surface, a great city that was replaced after the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]] between the Autobots and the Decepticons, during the [[Great Upgrade]]: [[Iacon (polity)|Iacon]]. The two apparently trigger a ghostly spector, a holographic [[Optimus Prime memorial|tribute]] to the original [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]].

Rattrap and Botanica get out of robot mode to escape detection, and duck into a convenient building; Strika drives by without finding them. Rattrap taps his scrambler disk uncertainly, only to get snapped at by Botanica. But Rattrap's attention is suddenly distracted by the contents of the building they're in: [[Holo-chip|holographic pleasure chips]]. He loads several of said chips into his backpack, then spots some sort of player for the chips just then. He plugs into it, becoming enthralled with a vision of a peaceful metallic world. Just then Strika enters and attacks.

At the shell plant, Silverbolt finally gets blasted back to the ground, and rebuked by Cheetor for his recklessness.

Optimus and Nightscream are about to move on, when the virtual Prime reaches down and scoops Optimus up, bringing him up to face level. From Nightscream's point of view, the hologram disappears, though Optimus continues to float in mid-air. Thrust arrives just then and attacks, but Optimus is seemingly in a trance.

[[Image:Sparkwar2 Rattrap holoenviron.jpg|left|thumb|200px|A wondrous robotic world and no civil war destroying everything? That's disgusting.]]
Rattrap is still lost in his fantasy world, till Botanica pulls the machine's plug. A blast scatters the Maximals as well as Rattrap's precious chips, which he scrambles to scoop up. He tells Botanica to keep Strika occupied.

As leader, Cheetor decides on a strategic advance to the rear.

Nightscream is dodging cycle drone shots, while Optimus talks with Optimus on some other plane. The Prime hologram tells him that the Oracle lies within him, and he has but to summon it. Primal does so, and is surrounded by a white, Oracle-style hoola-hoop. The hologram of Optimus Prime chuckles... then laughs... a laugh which quickly deepens into that of Megatron, whose face suddenly replaces the figure of Prime.

Strika is posed to deliver a killing blow to Botanica, when Rattrap notices that one of her feet is on the activation pad of the holo-player he was using earlier. He leaps, landing on her shoulders and plugging one of the chips into her head, ensnaring her with the same vision that he was having before. He's pretty pleased with himself; Botanica drags him off.

In the shell yard, Cheetor has a bit of inspiration. The Maximals use a discarded power core to defeat their tormentors, blowing it up in their faces.

Megatron gloats to Optimus; he used the Spark vision to have the Maximals sent off on fools' errands, so Optimus would access the Oracle for his benefit. Megatron has studied and mastered most of the Oracle's secrets, but there's still some pieces missing... till now. And a fast, forceful download commences.

[[Image:Sparkwar2 Megatron primal.jpg|right|thumb|200px|'''IGNORE THE MAN BEHIND THE CURTAIN.''']]
Megatron gloats again; all the pieces are in place, and now he can complete his ultimate plan for the Sparks. The hologram fades away, and Optimus finds himself in the middle of Nightscream's cycle drone battle.

Nightscream, meanwhile, has been brought down by weight of numbers, when a bolt out of the blue hits his attackers. It's Savage, lumbering onto the scene and prompting the cycle drones into a frantic retreat. Savage morphs to Noble and jogs after them, out of sight. A second later the drones go flying through the air. Optimus recovers, and immediately orders Nightscream to follow him to a rendezvous with the others.

The Maximals are shocked that Megatron has the full power of the Oracle, but Primal tells him that he gave Megatron access to the Oracle on purpose. While Megatron was downloading it, Primal accessed information from ''him'' as well, and learned the location of the Sparks. They have but a short window of opportunity to act, to free the Sparks from the location where they're being held: within the big floating head.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s|c1=
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (3)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (4)
*[[Botanica (BM)|Botanica]] (5)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (7)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (8)
*[[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] (9)
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (10)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]]|c2=
*[[Copter Drone]]s (1)
*[[Heavy Artillery Drone]]s (2)
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (6)
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (11)
*[[Obsidian (BM)|Obsidian]] (12)
*[[Strika (BM)|Strika]] (13)
*[[Motorcycle Drone]]s (14)

|c4=
*[[Noble (BM)|Noble]] (15)

}}

==Quotes==
"No offense, kitten, but I don't take orders from children." 
"Silverbolt, a lot's happened since you've been gone." 
"Not that much."
:—'''Silverbolt''' isn't impressed with Cheetor, despite '''Blackarachnia''' sticking up for him.

"This calls for a strategic advance to the rear." 
"Meaning?" 
"RUN AWAY!"
:—'''Rattrap''' and '''Botanica''' encounter Strika.

"Looks like we've been spotted." [sarcastically] "Thank you very much, ''Rattrap''."
:—'''Blackarachnia''' after being spotted by Obsidian.

"Ugh, everyone else gets a partner, I get a flea-ridden travel agent."
:—'''Botanica'''

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
* When Botanica picks up the metal plate to use as a shield, the connectors between her torso and arms are missing, so her arms are just floating beside her.
* With its curved antennae, the head of the Optimus Prime hologram sure looks like Primal's original ''Beast Wars'' head, doesn't it? Further, when he reaches down to pick up Primal, Prime has a ''mouth.'' (It's gone by the next shot.) Apparently, Mainframe had lost the model for Prime's head, and had to use a faceplated Primal head as a "good enough" replacement.
* Thrust pronounces Iacon as "Iocon".

===Transformers references===
*While traveling through the sublevels of Cybertron, Optimus Primal and Nightscream stumble upon the ruins of [[Iacon (polity)|Iacon]].
*After that, they encounter a hologram of [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]. It needed more [[Peter Cullen]].
*The hologram claimed to be Optimus Prime's "essence, stored here these many years after [[The Final Battle (disambiguation)|The Final Battle]]". Sure, it was a ruse by Megatron, but there had to be enough truth in it to attempt to fool Optimus Primal. It seems likely there was some sort of Final Battle, or a legend of a Final Battle in [[Beast Era]] lore, where it would be believable that Prime's essence would get stored away afterwards. The implication is also that Optimus Prime ''died'' in this battle.
*The Maximals stumble on the remains of more Transformers, reusing [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] and [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]'s character models again.

===Real-world references===
* As the [[Grand Mal|Big Floating Head]] hovers into view, Rattrap mutters "Talk about yer bad moon risin'," in tribute to the classic [[Wikipedia:Creedence Clearwater Revival|Creedence Clearwater Revival]] [[Wikipedia:Bad Moon Rising (song)|song]].

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''La Guerre des Étincelles (Partie 2)'''" ("The War of the Sparks (Part 2)")

:*''Title:'' "'''Guerre des Étincelles p2: La Recherche'''" ("War of the Sparks Pt.2: The Search")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Kyozō no Michibiki'''" (虚像の導き, "The Illusion's Guidance")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[January 15]], [[2005]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Guerra de Chispas Parte 2: La Búsqueda'''" ("Sparkwar Part 2: The Search")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2005 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 6 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season Two: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season Two (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 2 (Sony) — French audio only.

[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

Sparkwar Pt. I: The Strike

2014-11-03T09:16:18Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=20
|image=Sparkwar1 Obsidian Strika profile.jpg
|caption=So....doing anything later?
|title="Sparkwar Pt. I: The Strike"
|airdate=[[March 22]], 2000
|written by=[[Brooks Wachtel]]
|directed by=[[Steve Sacks]]
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuty=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}

'''While searching for the missing sparks, the Maximals are attacked by two new Vehicon generals.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:Sparkwar1 Maximals junkpile.jpg|left|thumb|200px|This is what Doom mods look like in Heaven.]]
[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] is fleeing from the usual horde of Cycle drones. Rattrap cuts in and destroys a lot of them.... then [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] does the same... and so on, with [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] looking on in anger as [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] blows away a batch of drones that are surrounding [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]]. Thrust ends up getting bashed down by a flying pile of Cycledrone parts, then surrounded by Maximals, who send him packing. [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] notes that their victories are coming rather easily these days, with a touch of trepidation.

[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]], observing, coldly notes that he won't allow the "mongrel" Maximals to run roughshod over his planet.

Rattrap has cobbled together a cart from busted Cycle drones, and hauled it back to base (apparently this was the purpose of the mission!) Blackarachnia thanks Silverbolt for an assist in battle, but he only chews her out for losing focus.

The Cycle drone parts are for [[Botanica (BM)|Botanica]], to help her unlock the secrets of the organic core. Nightscream tries to warm Botanica up to the idea of combat, but she's having none of it; she's a scientist, not a warrior, and doesn't want to become more like Megatron. [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus]] defends her position, saying the other six can easily handle one Vehicon general.

Aboard the [[Grand Mal|big floating head]], Thrust gets chewed out by Megatron for failing to hold the Maximals at bay; when Megatron says he's no better than [[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]] or [[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]], Thrust angrily reminds him that he's remained loyal, and it was Megatron's choices that caused the other two to turn against him.

Cheetor tries to cheer up a moping Optimus, who's down in the dumps over the missing Sparks. Nightscream, meanwhile, approaches Silverbolt, trying to get him not to be such a jerk to Blackarachnia. Silverbolt isn't interested in anything else until the war is won, and flies off.

[[Image:Sparkwar1 Vehicon generals instruction.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Wow. You guys look...absolutely nothing like your toys.]]
Optimus has some kind of brief vision just then, alerting him to trouble with the Sparks. And above, we see Megatron gleefully holding aloft two of the Sparks in question. A moment later, two new Vehicons roll out from a chamber, as Thrust looks on in approval: one floats, and shoulder-mounted helicopter blades; the other is bigger and bulkier, and "skates" just above the ground. Thrust starts to deliver a lecture on the way things work. The new guys look at Thrust, at each other... and then one of them casually bashes Thrust aside, as Megatron laughs.

Nightscream pursues Silverbolt above the surface, still pressing the Blackarachnia issue. But Nightscream is suddenly blasted out of the air, then caught by Silverbolt. They spot the new generals, who stare ominously... then laugh and transform. The floating one becomes a sleek, twin-bladed helicopter: "Obliterate!" The other, a six-wheeled ground vehicle: "Terminate!"

Nightscream radios for help. The Maximals move out; Botanica stays behind, over Cheetor's protests and with Optimus's blessing.

The group arrives in time to help. They handle the new generals easily, and find their vocabulary limited to little but "OBLITERATE!!" and "TERMINATE!" Silverbolt is concerned and confused as to why Megatron would create such ineffective general; Rattrap figures they're easier to control. Primal tries to reach their Sparks, hoping to free captive Maximals within and also to learn the location of the Sparks, but they escape and run off.

Botanica, meanwhile is working with her machines, when a vat of green goo that she's using begins to seethe and speak her name, overwhelming her with visions of drifting Sparks....

The team pursues their quarry; the Generals round a corner and turn to face their opponents, their backs to a wall. For a brief instant, the Maximals are triumphant. And then a cloud of drones — identical to the generals — rises into view.

It's a trap — the Maximals are surrounded by hundreds of drones. Their leaders transform, and speak. The helicopter muses that Primal never learned not to underestimate his opponents; the tank simply laughs that the team fell for the simplistic ruse.

The drones open fire; Primal absorbs it and uses the energy to blast through the platform they're standing on, so the ground falls out from beneath his group. They try to retreat to base, but at every turn they're intercepted by drones. Primal notes that their foes are clearly master strategists.

Back at said base, Botanica finds herself adrift. She is treated to various flashbacks to Megatron's invasion, his armies of drones, the Maximals' fights.... then finds herself alone again.

Even the planet's sewers provide no safe haven, filled with more drones. The Maximals decide to fall back to the [[Council Citadel]], while a plant-vine nearby shows Botanica what's going on.

[[Image:Sparkwar1 Obsidian contacts Primal.jpg|left|thumb|200px|Thank you for calling Vehicon Pizza Delivery, can I take your order?]]
The Maximals slam shut a pile of heavy doors behind them. Firepower impacts the doors from the outside. Optimus has a horrible realization: they've been herded here. A screen with the helicopter's face on it approaches; he invites the team to surrender. Primal tries to reason with him, but the helicopter — [[Obsidian (BM)|Obsidian]] — says that he and [[Strika (BM)|Strika]] are doing what they've always done, which is to defend Cybertron. The Maximals have been taking on the two greatest generals in Cybertronian history.

A horde of Heavy Artillery drones bursts through the doors. The group retreats again, but is soon sealed into another room with scads of drones. Primal vows to go down fighting, but then Botanica bursts ito the room and transforms. She launches a plethora of planet-vine-bomb things, disrupting the drones and causing them to randomly blast each other.

[[Image:Sparkwar1 Artillery drone fight.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Emo Tank Drones. They blow ''themselves'' up.]]
Strika and Obsidian, watching from afar, note that their targeting systems are being disrupted, by the new Maximal whose capabilities they know little about. The Maximals revert to beast mode and retreat, and Botanica simply melts into the floor.

The generals finally arrive at the scene, find the Maximals have vanished, and order their forces to stand down. The two later report back to Megatron, prepared to accept punishment for failure — a point that Thrust happily emphasizes. Megatron is pleased with their loyalty, though, and for keeping the Maximals occupied, allowing him to finalize his plan for the Sparks.

Botanica burrows her way, drill-like, into the Maximal base. She explains what changed her mind; Rattrap facepalms: "Another one with visions." The team apologizes for trying to force her into their way of doing things; Botanica vows that it's her fight as well. Silverbolt is pessimistic; the new Generals have fought a thousand wars together, and won them all. Primal observes that they were culled from the missing Sparks, and vows not to let Megatron violate another. A dancing vision of Sparks fills the screen as we fade out.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s|c1=
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (2)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (3)
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (4)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (5)
*[[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] (6)
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (8)
*[[Botanica (BM)|Botanica]] (10)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]]|c2=
*[[Motorcycle Drone]]s (1)
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (7)
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (9)
*[[Obsidian (BM)|Obsidian]] (11)
*[[Strika (BM)|Strika]] (12)
*[[Copter Drone]] (13)
*[[Heavy Artillery Drone]] (14)
}}

==Quotes==
"Honey, I'm home! You know, they had the best sale on used Vehicon parts, only slightly damaged."
:—'''Rattrap'''

"The more we fight like Megatron, the more we become like Megatron."
:—'''Botanica'''

"Until the threat of Megatron is quelled, love is a luxury I cannot afford." 
"Did he really say 'quelled'?"
:—'''Silverbolt''' and '''Nightscream'''

'''Nightscream:''' "Now we've got 'em!" 
'''Rattrap:''' "Exactly where they want us." 
'''Cheetor:''' "It's a trap!" 
'''Rattrap:''' "Ya think?"
:—The Maximals catch on quickly.

"Although he took his name from a great leader, Optimus Primal never learned the first rule of warfare: never underestimate your opponent."
:—'''Obsidian'''

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
* In the opening scene, after Silverbolt blows up an assortment of (just) cycle drones, the debris inexplicably includes aero drone parts.
* When Rattrap is pulling the wheelbarrow of cycle parts, he's not actually connected to the wheelbarrow in any way. The harness is just hovering over his back.
* Obsidian and his Copter Drones never fire with their robot mode arms/machine guns the same way twice.
* When Silverbolt tells Nightscream to split up, Nightscream is in his bat mode. When we see him moments later firing on Strika, he is in robot mode seemingly without transforming.

===Continuity errors===
* Silverbolt seems to know about Obsidian and Strika's past success as war generals despite the fact that his protoform was activated during the Beast Wars on Earth and his own datatracks were lost. Presumably he read a history book at some point.

===Transformers references===
* Thrust is brutally yet comically harmed at least three times in this episode. Sadly for him, he seems to be reverting to [[Waspinator (BW)|his old role]].

===Real-world references===
* Rattrap's "Honey, I'm home!" line is a reference to Ricky Ricardo's customary greeting to his wife on ''[[:wikipedia:I Love Lucy|I Love Lucy]]''.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''La Guerre des Étincelles (Partie 1)'''" ("The War of the Sparks (Part 1)")

:*''Title:'' "'''Guerre des Étincelles p1: Contre-Attaque'''" (Canada, "War of the Sparks Pt.1: Counterattack")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Toraware no Tamashii'''" (捕われの魂, "Captured Souls")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[January 9]], [[2005]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Guerra de Chispas Parte 1: El Ataque'''" ("Sparkwar Part 1: The Attack")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2005 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 5 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season Two: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season Two (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 2 (Sony) — French audio only.

[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]
[[Category: MSTF]]

Home Soil

2014-11-03T09:16:03Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=19
|image=HomeSoil Maximal plant attack.jpg
|caption="''K-K-Kill meeee...''"
|title="Home Soil"
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|airdate=[[March 15]], 2000
|written by=[[Megeen McLaughlin|Meg McLaughlin]]
|directed by=[[Dennis Heaton]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuity=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''A spaceship crash-lands on Cybertron, releasing a tentacled alien monster. The Maximals and Vehicons both rush to take control of the vessel's secrets.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:HomeSoil Silverbolt shipcrash.jpg|left|thumb|200px|My god, Bones. What have I done.]]
High above the planet of [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], a mysterious spaceship and a cluster of asteroids prepare to make planetfall. But the automated space-cannons manage to destroy the asteroids and badly damage the ship, sending it plummeting towards the planet. Flying above the city streets, [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] sends word of the ship to base.

Underground, a worried [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus]] examines the wilting [[technorganic]] trees and ponders their survival and the future of Cybertron should they die. [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] tries to console him, but to no avail. Suddenly, [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] bursts in, telling the [[Maximal]]s about the ship's crash. [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] has also found out about the arrival of the ship and orders [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] to destroy any survivors of the crash. Thrust obediently heads towards the site, turning this into a race against time.

[[Image:HomeSoil Maximals head towards crash.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Not running ''away'' from something for once.]]
As the Maximals head towards the crash site, Thrust and his troops whiz by them. Several of the drones peel from the squadron and about-face, turning to fight the Maximals. Transforming into robot mode, the Maximals make short work of the [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]]s, but they have lost time. Primal splits them into three teams: He and Cheetor will travel on the surface, Rattrap and [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] will go underground, and [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] and [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] will take to the sky.

In the air, Nightscream and Silverbolt destroy a squadron of Aero-Drones, but Nightscream still treats newcomer Silverbolt rudely, even after the latter compliments their teamwork together.

In the sewers of Cybertron, Blackarachnia laments to Rattrap of Silverbolt's lack of affection, even after she freed him from his Jetstorm slave form and reformatted him into his present condor form. However, the conversation is cut short as two [[Vehicon Mole|mole drones]] burst in from the sides. Blackarachnia destroys one and Rattrap commandeers another, and the duo head towards the site much quicker.

On the surface, Cheetor and Primal are surrounded by a group of drones. The two flying Maximals arrive to help them, and together they destroy the drones.

Eventually, the Maximals arrive at the ship. Stepping inside, they discover that the walls are covered with plant matter. They are suddenly attacked by a tentacled plant beast, but when they fight it, it turns tail and heads underground, towards the Oracle and the technorganic orchard. Primal fears that the fast-growing seeds the alien leaves in its wake will contaminate and destroy the orchard.

[[Image:HomeSoil Optimus prebotanica.jpg|left|thumb|200px|Of course, if this Transformer is ''normally'' a ravenous psychotic, they'll now be more dangerous, but hey, who dares wins!]]
However, he has a plan: Tapping the power of the [[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]], he attempts to reformat the monster. Cheetor protests, seeing as only "Cybertronians" can be reformatted, but Primal goes ahead with his idea, and the alien is bathed in a white light. The organic components of the creature begin to merge with the technological, and a technorganic, sentient plant emerges. The creature explains that she too is of Cybertronian descent, and that several years ago, she and her crew embarked on a mission of exploration similar to the ''[[Axalon (BW)|Axalon]]'''s (except without all the [[Beast Wars: Transformers (cartoon)|guns, violence and killing]]). Reaching a [[Regalis V|planet]] covered with aggressive, mobile plants (in other words, "talking trees"), she and her crew took the natives' forms to study them and avoid predation. The plant says that Megatron's attack had "shorted out" both her ship and her higher mental functions, so she was merely acting out of self-preservation.

But the plant-bot is cut short as a phalanx of Tank Drones attack, beginning to ravage the orchard. The newest member of the Maximals takes action, transforming into her robot mode. Shooting one drone with electrical energy, she uses a "chain-lightning" attack, with the energy leaping from one tank to the next, until the deadly circuit is completed and the drones are destroyed.

[[Image:HomeSoil Optimus botanica plant.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Do you still have that baggy I gave you?]]
Examining the poor state of the plants, the robot notes that different plants need different lighting, and she throws a bomb-like device onto the lights currently used. As the light changes, the technorganic plants flourish, and the new Maximal introduces herself as [[Botanica (BM)|Botanica]].

Above, Megatron (encompassed within the [[Grand Mal|big floating head]]) notes the newest arrival and transforms into a "spaceship mode", destroying the remains of Botanica's ship and the rampant plant growth around it. As Thrust gripes about the ever-increasing odds against him, Megatron declares that it is time to put an end to the Maximal "infestation" for good.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s|c1=
*[[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] (1)
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (2)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (3)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (4)
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (5)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (6)
*[[Botanica (BM)|Botanica]] (13)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]]|c2=
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (7)
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (8)
*[[Motorcycle Drone]]s (9)
*[[Aero Drone]]s (10)
*[[Vehicon Mole]]s (11)
*[[Tank Drone]]s (12)
}}

==Quotes==
"Don't worry, legs, I know the drill."
:—'''Rattrap''', about to take out a mole drone.

"''Real'' fair. One of me, six of them." 
"''Seven''! ... now. As we remain static, the organics grow yet stronger. Clearly this infestation must be exterminated, once and for all."
:—'''Thrust''' groans about unfair odds, while '''Megatron''' makes with the foreshadowing.

==Notes==
* This is the only episode where Grand Mal Megatron transforms.
* The destruction of Botanica's ship in the last scene is reminiscent of [[Rampage (BW)|Rampage]]'s destruction of [[Depth Charge (BW)|Depth Charge]]'s [[starhopper]] in the last scene of "[[Deep Metal]]". In both cases, the writers were cleaning up a loose end, since giving the heroes access to a working spaceship would've derailed the story.

===Animation and technical errors===
*The Maximals are missing from the background when Thrust orders his drones to turn back and attack them.
*When Rattrap hides behind Nightscream after being spooked by the plant creature, he's clipping through Nightscream's leg-wing.
*As Cheetor slashes about with his swords during the fight with the tank drones, his right sword first clips into his right thigh, and before he jumps away, his entire left arm clips through his left leg.
*In the closeup of the tank drone driving over the plants, one leaf on the ground pops into existence between frames.

===Continuity errors===
*Primal doesn't suffer any weakness post-reformatting, as he did with Nightscream in "[[Forbidden Fruit]]".
*Like Nightscream, Botanica is able to transform to robot mode immediately after being reformatted. Then again, like Nightscream, she was reformatted by Optimus Primal directly, instead of the Oracle, which might be a deciding factor in the new transformation process. Although that still doesn't explain it with Silverbolt.
*Rattrap usually transforms into robot mode in order to interface with computers. In this episode, he transforms ''out'' of robot mode to do it.
*It apparently doesn't occur to Optimus to use his jet boosters to reach the downed spacecraft first. Plus, even if they have to stay in Beast Mode, why do they stick together rather than sending Cheetor out on ahead? Or are they seriously suggesting that every Maximal has the same top speed? (This isn't the [[Fallen Comrades|first]] [[Code of Hero|time]] this has happened.)
*Why does a Maximal shuttle look exactly like a four million year old Autobot shuttle, instead of, say, the Axalon, one of its contemptories? It also has a very inconsistent size. Botanica fills the exit door when she leaves the ship in the flashback, whereas Rattrap and the other Maximals were tiny against it when trying to break in.
*Apparently Botanica (or at least one of her crew) can change her alt-mode just from receiving information from a DNA scanner, without the need for a CR Chamber.
*So, er, what happened to Botanica's crew then?

===Transformers references===
* Nightscream wonders aloud if the new arrivals might "spread some sort of virus" while glaring at Silverbolt, a reference to the events of [[A Wolf in the Fold|last episode]].

===Real-world references===
* Nightscream and Silverbolt declare "Do not pass 'Go!' Do not collect $200!", a clear reference to the popular board game [[Monopoly]].
* Nightscream at one point refers to Silverbolt as "Typhoid Mary", a reference to both the previous episode and the infamous real-life carrier of the Typhoid virus.

===Trivia===
* The planet that Botanica and her crew were sent to explore is apparently Planet Jungle from Mainframe Entertainment's other toyline-based cartoon ''[[wikipedia:Shadow Raiders|Shadow Raiders/War Planets]]''. Whether this is an intentional crossover or simply due to the recycling of backgrounds and animation models for budget reasons is unclear.
* Botanica's pre-plant form, seen only in shadow, is another reuse of the Giant Robot model from ''ReBoot'', which was previously used for [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]]'s pre-beast form and in a number of other places during ''Beast Wars''. As used here, it has what looks like [[Depth Charge (BW)|Depth Charge]]'s head.
* For some reason, Blackarachnia checks herself out after Botanica gets reformatted. Jealous at no longer being the only girl, Legs? (She also has the most over-the-top look of shock on her face imaginable.)
* When Thrust's drones surround the Maximals Thrust extends one of his fingers and holds his hand up as if he's giving Optimus the finger, making this the ''second time'' Thrust has displayed obscene hand gestures to his enemies. Optimus is not amused.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Terre Natale'''" ("Native Land")

:*''Title:'' "'''Provenance'''" (Canada, "Source")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Shokubutsu no Hanran'''" (植物の反乱, "The Plant's Rebellion")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[January 8]], [[2005]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Su Tierra Natal'''" ("Her Native Soil")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2005 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 5 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season Two: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season Two (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 2 (Sony) — French audio only.

[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

A Wolf in the Fold

2014-11-03T09:15:47Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{disambig2|the Beast machines episode|the Marvel UK comic|Wolf in the Fold!}}
{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=18
|image=Wolf in the Fold Cheetor Rattrap fight.jpg
|caption=Never hide Cheetor's catnip
|title="A Wolf in the Fold"
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|airdate=[[March 8]], 2000
|written by=[[Brynne Chandler Reaves]]
|directed by=[[William Lau]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuity=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''Megatron unleashes a new virus that turns the Maximals into <strike>jerks</strike> their own worst enemies.'''

==Synopsis==
Far beneath the abandoned underground civilizations of [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], the [[Maximal]]s are hanging out, enjoying a breather, happy to have Silverbolt back. Even in their victory, they can't forget the lost [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]], however. [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] can't share in the joy; for him, things are not the same. [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] assures him he'll adjust, now that they've got a moment to relax. Naturally, the entire planet begins shaking just then.

[[Image:Wolf in the Fold Silverbolt infected.jpg|left|thumb|200px|'''DO NOT WANT''']]

On the surface, a number of gigantic claw-ended tentacles are coming out of the [[Grand Mal|big floating head]], and smashing their way into the planet's surface. The Maximals head for the surface, as green pulses of energy pass from the tentacles and along the corridors. One passes through Silverbolt's foot as he runs, and activates some sort of spider-disk-device thing that seems to burrow out of his back. The device immediately shoots him full of some nasty-looking red stuff, causing his eyes to twitch and glow red. [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] stops to check on him, resting a hand on his shoulder, and promptly receives a dose of the same red stuff.

As the Maximals arrive at the base of one of the tentacles, the red stuff is quickly passed along: Cheetor steps on [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]]'s tail; Rattrap high-fives [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] with a suggestion to attack the big floating head; Silverbolt puts his arm around Blackarachnia.

[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus]] hands out attack orders to the group, only to be met with increasingly argumentative comments in response. Within seconds a furious, senseless argument is underway. Optimus's attempts to calm the group are met with rebukes; unable to reason with the group, Primal finally rockets off alone.

A laser blast scatters the Maximals, as [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] arrives with Cycle drones. Optimus sees the battle below, and turns to help — but one of Cheetor's reflected bolts severs a tentacle. Optimus takes the flailing thing head-on and falls, till another of the gigantic tentacle scoops him up.

Thrust and company, meanwhile, head underground. Cheetor says they have to stop them before they find their base; the others disagree, of course, but Cheetor shouts them all down.

[[Image:Wolf in the Fold Optimus MatrixMegatron.jpg|right|thumb|200px|I don't think this is what Optimus meant when he said, "Soon, I shall be one with the Matrix," Megatron.]]
Inside the big floating head, the disembodied [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] greets Optimus. He's invited him here for a little chat, with the ground attack merely a way to get Primal's attention. Megatron materializes as a ghost data head, telling Primal that they both want the same thing: harmony.

The Maximals, meanwhile, run down the Cycle drones and trash them, then quickly resume arguing. During a brief lapse, Silverbolt soberly concludes that he should never have returned. He flies off, and Blackarachnia mocks him for running away from his problems. And the arguing resumes, as does the fighting: Thrust arrives with more drones.

Back in the BFH, Optimus and Megatron argue the merits of free will versus chaos, harmony versus individuality. Primal is distracted by the image of the Maximals fighting, however, and leaves.

[[Image:Wolf in the Fold Maximals argue.jpg|left|thumb|200px|Seriously, guys...WHERE DID YOU HIDE MY CATNIP?]]
The Maximals, meanwhile, are fighting the drones less and less, and increasingly fighting each other. Cheetor has what alcoholics would refer to as a moment of clarity, realizing something's amiss. But it's for naught, as the infighting continues and sucks him back in as well. Thrust sits back to enjoy the show.

On the surface, Silverbolt approaches one of the giant tentacles, and discovers the spider-thing on his back, which he plucks off with fury.

Primal arrives, and knocks out Thrust with one punch. He orders his troops to stop, but they attack instead, and in short order Primal is infected with the red stuff as well. He joins in the fighting, till Silverbolt arrives. He tells them they're infected with a virus, and somehow manages to calm the group.

Rattrap examines one of the giant tentacles, and finds they're sending an activation signal to trigger a pre-planted virus hidden in Silverbolt. It has "an adrenalin booster, a neocortex suppressor, and a shut-off on the self-diagnostic! And it's contagious." It's apparently a variant on the old [[Hate Plague]], and it can't be counteracted.

[[Image:Wolf in the Fold Maximals united.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Maximals....strike a pose.]]
Megatron makes his move. Waves of energy pour down the tentacles, rattling the ground and alarming the Maximals. Primal has an epiphany, that they can somehow "work together" to rebuild their neural pathways. Megatron's energies, meanwhile, are sending huge seismic disruptions through the tunnels, collapsing the ground out from under the Maximals. Falling, the group manages to latch onto one another, and one after the next they cured. Optimus lifts the oddball chain to the surface, where they land.

Rattrap's happy to be a team again, but Silverbolt is more angsty than ever over his role in the whole affair. The Maximals hold no grudges, however. The tentacles retract into the BFH just then, the plan apparently failed or over or something. Blackarachnia laments that they were turned against each other. Primal muses that Megatron didn't create the conflicts, only magnified them, and wonders disbelievingly if Megatron might be right. Far above, the BFH has a good chuckle at this thought.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s
|c1=
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (1)
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (2)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (3)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (4)
*[[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] (5)
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (6)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]]s
|c2=
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (7)
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (8)
*[[Motorcycle Drone]]s (9)

}}
==Quotes==
'''Optimus Primal:''' "Silverbolt, Nightscream, aerial recon. Rattrap, Cheetor, ground survey. Blackarachnia, you're base com and backup." 
'''Blackarachnia:''' "Oh ''yeah''? And what are ''you'' going to do, ''[[Trukk not munky|monkey]]''?" 
'''Cheetor''': "Yeah! Who died and made ''you'' King Kong?"
:—The Maximals start squabbling

"Did the little sheep get caught without their shepherd?"
:—'''Thrust''''s first one-liner in the series.

"Your version of harmony is nothing more than slavery. How can you have harmony without free will?" 
"How can you have harmony amidst the chaos of disgreeing minds?" 
"True harmony only prevails when all voices are heard. You only want to stifle them." 
"Your way only leads to chaos, or are these the voices of harmony?"
:—'''Optimus''' and '''Megatron''''s philosophical debate

"You want a piece of me?!" 
"I want a lot of pieces!"
:—'''Cheetor''' and '''Rattrap''' scrap.

"Forget the seeds of the future; I'M BURYING YOU IN THE PAST!"
:—'''Optimus Primal''', upon being infected with the hate plague-like virus.

"So how do we counteract it?" 
"In two words: im-possible."
:—'''Cheetor''' and '''Rattrap''', who can't count.

"That's it! We've got to work together to reform our neural pathways! That's the only way to destroy the virus and cure us!"
:—'''Optimus Primal''' pulls a solution out of his monkey butt.

"-He didn't create the conflicts; he only magnified them. The fundamental disharmony, we provided that ourselves. Could it be that Megatron is right after all?"
:—'''Optimus Primal'''

==Notes==
* This episode was lampooned in [[MSTF]] fashion along with "[[Forbidden Fruit]]".
* Interestingly, Silverbolt is presented as the title 'Wolf in the Fold' (being the first carrier of Megatron's virus) despite losing the wolf-like attributes of his Fuzor form. Though, Silverbolt could be considered a lone wolf, a person who prefers to be alone despite being in a group or society, at this point.

===Animation and technical errors===
*As Optimus walks out of the tunnel, judging by his shadow, he's floating a few inches above the ground.
*When we pan up towards Megatron's floating head, a strange black line flashes up twice on the side of the tentacle that's closest to view.
*Rattrap's right arm clips into Nightscream as they start squabbling.
*After the first commercial break, as Primal's falling down, his left arm is weirdly deformed and slowly starts to twist back into shape before the shot cuts.
*When the Maximals start arguing inside the building, Blackarachnia's shoulder pads keep disappearing between shots.
*At one point, while Blackarachnia is dangling from Nightscream, her head clips through her webbing.

===Transformers references===
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] compares the infection they're suffering to the [[Hate Plague]].

===Real-world references===
* Cheetor refers to Optimus Primal as "[[King Kong]]" when he's infected by the Hate Plague.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Un Loup dans la Bergerie'''" ("A Wolf in the Sheep-Fold")

:*''Title:'' "'''Un Loup Divisé'''" (Canada, "A Divided Wolf")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Nikushimi no Rasen'''" (憎しみの螺旋, "The Spiral of Hatred")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[January 2]], [[2005]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Un Lobo en el Redil'''" ("A Wolf in the Fold")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2005 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 5 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season Two: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season Two (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 2 (Sony) — French audio only.

{{DEFAULTSORT:Wolf in the Fold}}
[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]
[[Category:MSTF]]

In Darkest Knight

2014-11-03T09:15:32Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=17
|image=Silverboltbm.jpg
|caption=I'm [[Batman]].
|title="In Darkest Knight"
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|airdate=[[March 1]], 2000
|written by=[[Steven Melching]]
|directed by=[[George Samilski]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuity=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''Blackarachnia is finally able to revive Silverbolt, but he doesn't seem too happy about it.'''

==Synopsis==
As the [[Grand Mal|big floating head]], [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]]'s newest body, drifts overhead, [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] searches through a derelict region of [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] for his former friend, the organic [[Noble (BM)|Savage/Noble]]. However, his search is cut short by [[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] and [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]].

[[Image:DarkestKnight Rattrap's invention.jpg|left|thumb|200px|"Behold my new invention: ''a LIGHT!''"]]
Back at the Maximal base, [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] talks to [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] about his newest invention, combining a [[spark extractor]] with a [[DNA scanner]]. This process, he hopes, could someday be used to restore any of the captured sparks they recover into Transformer bodies. [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] and [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] arrive, wondering what's happened to Nightscream. Nobody has seen him for a while, so the team head aboveground to find out where he's gone. However, Blackarachnia has a lingering fascination with Rattrap's new device.

The Maximals find Nightscream surrounded by a pack of [[Motorcycle Drone|cycle drones]] and other [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]]s. A fight to rescue their young member begins. Cheetor uses his blades to glide through the air, fighting the [[Aero Drone]]s all the while. Rattrap outraces several more cycle drones. Cooking up her own plot, Blackarachnia places Rattrap's device on Jetstorm, hoping to free his spark and reformat him.

Megatron, in his gigantic head, uses his gravity beams to capture Optimus and Cheetor, ending the conflict quickly. Nightscream is left behind, at the mercy of Thrust. Luckily, he is protected by Savage/Noble, who uses both of his tails to damage Thrust. Rattrap sees the strange dragon haul Nightscream's unconscious body away and, suspecting Savage intends to consume the younger Maximal, follows.

[[Image:DarkestKnight Silverbolt reflection.jpg|right|thumb|200px|"Kermit, I would like to have a word about injecting some culture into this show."]]
Blackarachnia leads Jetstorm deeper underground. The jet crashes through one of her webs and into a pool of [[organic goo|organic fluid]]. With the general restrained, the DNA scanner Blackarachnia placed onto him activates and begins to detect local fossils. The scanner passes by several other bones before locking onto a suitable candidate: a skeleton of a prehistoric, condor-like creature. After a painful metamorphosis, the Vehicon once known as Jetstorm is destroyed, and the [[Maximal]] [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] is reborn. He becomes aware of himself and is surprised by his new, [[technorganic]] form. Shocked, disgruntled, and angry, he flies out of the cave in which he was brought back, leaving a confused Blackarachnia behind.

Confronting the renegade Maximal atop a skyscraper, Blackarachnia discovers a change in her lover. Instead of the corny, phrase-spouting 'bot of prehistoric Earth, this new, angry Silverbolt loathes himself. Blackarachnia tries to remind the Maximal of the heroic personality he used to be, but Silverbolt (who is no longer silver) no longer has any connection to those ideals that once defined him. He comes along with Blackarachnia on a trip to rescue Optimus Primal and Cheetor not out of concern for his Maximal pals, but only as a way to confront his former master, Megatron.

Nightscream awakens in an abandoned warehouse, now serving as Savage/Noble's "den". The creature, in his "Noble" form, provides a metallic apple for Nightscream to feed on. Noble has lost his former mental skills, but still seems to like Nightscream and remember him. Rattrap tries to rescue Nightscream quietly but catches Noble's attention. Confused, Noble shifts into his Savage form, causing Nightscream and Rattrap to cheese it.

[[Image:DarkestKnight Optimus Cheetor interrogation.jpg|left|thumb|200px|"I'm a pepper! Don't you want to be a pepper, too?"]]
Inside of the Grand Mal, Cheetor and Optimus are interrogated for information on the Oracle and how Megatron can use it to manipulate the Sparks he holds captive. Blackarachnia and Silverbolt arrive in the same chamber, where Megatron manifests an image of himself, a hologram of the Grand Mal made out of floating masses of data. He explains why he selected Silverbolt's spark to be made into a new general: He believed Silverbolt's sense of honor would let him stay true to Megatron's Vehicon ideology. Blackarachnia argues, hoping Silverbolt understands that friendship and love are more important.

Silverbolt rejects Megatron's dogma and transforms into his new robot mode. His throwing blades heavily damage Megatron's insides. Freed, Primal orders a retreat, but Silverbolt feels it would be better to [[Furmanism|fight and die]]. Blackarachnia uses one of her abilities to stun him so she can drag him out.

[[Image:Blackarachniasilverboltdarkestknight.jpg|right|300px|thumb|A sunset on Cybertron? Crazy!]]
Rattrap and Nightscream are still running from Savage when they find Thrust and his drones standing in their way. The Maximals let Savage take care of the drones, while Silverbolt tosses away Thrust into the water. Primal welcomes Silverbolt back into the Maximals, but the bird just leaves the Maximals, not yet ready to be part of the team. Nightscream argues that Savage/Noble still has the qualities of a good guy inside of him, and Primal decides that the best thing to do is to wait.

That morning, sitting on a skyscraper, Blackarachnia and Silverbolt have another discussion, in which he reveals how he enjoyed being a Vehicon, without having to follow his code of honor. Despite this, Blackarachnia is still ready to reach out to him, and together they return to the Maximals.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s
|c1=
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (2)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (5)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (6)
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (7)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (8)
*[[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] (11)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]]s
|c2=
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (1)
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (3)
*[[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] (4)
*[[Motorcycle Drone]]s (9)
*[[Aero Drone]] (10)

|c4=
*[[Noble (BM)|Noble]] (11)

}}

==Quotes==
"Nothing noble about us!" 
"But savage? We can do that!"
:—'''Thrust''' and '''Jetstorm'''

"You broke 'em, you bought 'em, kittycat!"
:—'''Jetstorm'''

"What do you want from us?" 
"Oh, nothing much. Just every bit of data on the Oracle to better understand how I can fully exploit the precious sparks in my possession. I anticipate that extracting this information will be slow, painful, and, regrettably...fatal."
:—'''Optimus Primal''' and '''Megatron'''

"How can you stand the sight of me? Look at what I've become!"
:–'''Silverbolt''' doesn't like his new design any more than the rest of us.

"You helped me find the light once." 
"I was a fool back then. I ''believed'' in things."
:—'''Blackarachnia''' and '''Silverbolt'''

"Don't listen to him, Silverbolt! He turned you into a monster!" 
"I gave you strength. I gave you power." 
"We gave you friendship! I gave you my heart." 
"I gave you purpose. I gave you ''life!''" 
"''You... gave... me... '''NOTHING!!!'''''"
:-'''Blackarachnia''' and '''Megatron''' play Loyalty-tug-of-war with '''Silverbolt'''.

"Nobody's judging you. You were under Megatron's control. Join us, and you can avenge yourself." 
"You still don't get it, do you? I don't hate Megatron for what he made me do. He freed me from my code of honor, and I revelled in it. Don't you see? I… enjoyed it. I don't know what I am anymore." 
"You are what you've always been – honest, pure, virtuous to a fault." 
[''Blackarachnia takes Silverbolt's hand''] 
"You're taking a huge risk." 
"Considering how well I know the goodness in your heart, it really isn't a risk at all."
:—'''Blackarachnia''' and '''Silverbolt'''

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
* The fossil scanned by Silverbolt is clearly a bat, not a condor, and is a reuse of the CGI model of the fossil Nightscream found in "[[Survivor]]".

===Continuity errors===
* Also, seeing as how Silverbolt looks virtually ''nothing'' like his previous form, it seems somewhat odd that [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] would instantly recognise him without being introduced.
* Remember how, in "[[Revelations Part III: Apocalypse]]", Optimus said that changing Rhinox against his will is no better than Megatron? Or, in "[[Crossing the Rubicon]]", when he said much the same thing about Blackarachnia herself? Well, either Blackarachnia [[Fallout (episode)|''doesn't'' remember]] or it's okay when Jetstorm/Silverbolt has a [[To sell toys|new toy]] out. Then again, going behind everyone's back to do her own thing is possibly the only in-character action she made in the entire show.
* Previously, it was a major plot point to maintain robot mode. Now Nightscream is able to maintain robot form while unconscious. Good focus, kid.
* Silverbolt is able to transform without any practice. This is not the [[Nightscream (BM)|first]] time, nor will it be the [[Botanica (BM)|last]].

===Trivia===
* This is one of only two episodes in the entire series to feature sunlight.
* While it's not explicitly saying so, this episode does give a reason for how ''Waspinator'' of all people could influence his Vehicon self to help Blackarachnia but her true love couldn't: it wasn't that he couldn't, he just didn't want to ''stop'' being a villain.
* Silverbolt had previously shown a non-chivalrous, dark side to him from time to time: most notably in "[[Crossing the Rubicon]]" where he intends to murder [[Tarantulas (BW)|Tarantulas]].

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Une Sombre Nuit'''" ("A Dark Night")

:*''Title:'' "'''Sombre Chevalier'''" (Canada, "Dark Knight")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Yajū no Ongaeshi'''" (野獣の恩返し, "The Beast's Gratitude")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[January 1]], [[2005]]

'''Portuguese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''O Cavaleiro das Trevas'''" ("The Dark Knight")

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''El Caballero en la Oscuridad'''" ("The Knight in the Dark")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2005 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 5 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season Two: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season Two (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 2 (Sony) — French audio only.

[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

Prometheus Unbound

2014-11-03T09:15:12Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=16
|image=PrometheusUnbound title.jpg
|caption="Oh no. Promotheus." "''Prom'''e'''theus!"
|title="Prometheus Unbound"
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|airdate=[[February 23]], 2000
|written by=[[Marv Wolfman]]
|directed by=[[Sebastian Brodin]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuity=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''The Maximals infiltrate Megatron's fortress, but are betrayed by their new friend.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:PrometheusUnbound Noble moon.jpg|left|thumb|200px|''Even a bot who is pure of spark and says his prayers by night may become a wolf when the wolfbane blooms and the metal moon is bright.'']]
A giant Cybertronian moon passes (rumbles, actually) overhead. [[Noble (BM)|Noble]] howls at it, much to the consternation of the distant [[Maximal]]s—their new friend has run off yet again. [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] blames the team's treatment of the newcomer. [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] gently defends their actions as being for Noble's own good. "And ours," [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] adds.

[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] is vaguely unsettled by Noble; Rattrap is freaked out. Nightscream doesn't take this well, and he storms off with [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus]] in pursuit. Rattrap and Blackarachnia note unhappily that Noble is probably heading for "the same place as the last five nights".

[[Image:PrometheusUnbound Nightscream Savage bound.jpg|right|thumb|200px|''Invasion of the Metal Pod People'']]
Noble is furiously banging on the doors to [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]]'s [[Council Citadel|citadel]] when Nightscream and Optimus arrive. He transforms to Savage form when they confront him, then continues trying to claw his way in. A bunch of snaking cables worm out to attack Nightscream when he tries again to stop Savage—and Savage knocks him out of their way. The cables envelop and constrain him, and the Maximals peel him free to find him back in Noble form.

Noble seems confused about how he got there and says the Maximals should lock him away. But Optimus defends him, saying he saved Nightscream even in his Savage guise. Rattrap isn't buying it. Nightscream nastily puts Rattrap back in his place, saying he knows what it's like to be alone.

As usual, Optimus calms things down, focusing the team on finding the missing Sparks. The group prepares to infiltrate the citadel to look for clues. Noble wants to help, saying he's been drawn here for a reason, but Optimus refuses—they're going to have enough to worry about. Nightscream supports Noble, but Optimus doesn't budge, and Nightscream storms off.

Rattrap plugs in and the doors slide open. He's then restrained from rushing in by Blackarachnia, as Optimus reveals a destructive force field across the entryway. A quick shot to the control panel takes it out. Too easy—this was the trap they were ''meant'' to find. The group enters...and Noble, some distance away, turns and sprints through the doorway. A pursuing Nightscream follows just as it closes.

Optimus is ticked off, but Noble says he couldn't help himself and seems to be having trouble controlling himself.

As Rattrap begins a search for the security shut-off, Noble takes off running for the control room...and promptly steps on a floor sensor, activating a field of floating mines. The Maximals freeze, but just then Noble's eyes glow red and he morphs back into Savage, setting off a string of the mines. KaBOOM!

The group groaningly gets to its feet, and Rattrap chews out Nightscream for dragging Noble along. They hear distant roaring, and split up—Nightscream and Optimus hunt for Savage, while Rattrap heads for the throne room with Cheetor and Blackarachnia as backup. As the two groups proceed, both Savage and Noble watch from the shadows.

[[Image:PrometheusUnbound Rattrap harness.jpg|left|thumb|200px|Rattrap soon stumbled on Megatron's copy of "Two girls, one cup".]]
Nightscream hears Savage's roaring and takes off after him. Meanwhile, Savage changes back to Noble and opens the doors to Megatron's throne room. "Success!" he says blissfully, as he sees Megatron's empty control harness. Noble begins leaping across the floating jigsaw puzzle bridge, but loses his grip on one section and falls. Nightscream and Optimus arrive and go after him.

Rattrap and company arrive a moment later and stare at the drifting pieces of floating bridge. Cheetor and Blackarachnia go first and offer the less-mobile Rattrap assistance in getting to the harness. He plugs in, and the bridge assembles itself under their feet. Screens of data assemble before Rattrap. He begins searching, but everything's encrypted. Optimus encourages haste as he arrives with Nightscream and Noble—and the latter's gentle meekness abruptly disappears.

[[Image:PrometheusUnbound Noble holds rattrap.jpg|right|thumb|200px|After seeing ''Revenge of the Fallen'', Noble took it upon himself to see if Transformers really did have balls of steel.]]
Noble exults in being in the throne room, then spots Rattrap in the harness and immediately morphs to Savage. The Maximals realize he can control his changes. Savage blasts Rattrap out of the harness. Immediately, the bridge deconstructs and alarms go off. Tentacled [[Spark extractor]]s slither out of the walls. The group (including Savage) makes quick work of them, and Rattrap gets back into the harness as Savage morphs back to Noble, standing next to the harness. Rattrap starts to show gratitude for Noble being back in control—but Noble yanks him out by the tail and, in a dramatically backlit scene, tosses him away. He enters the harness himself, but nothing happens.

Noble realizes he can't interface while in an organic body. He leaps clear, grabs two Spark extractors, and applies them to...himself. A furiously burning orange Spark emerges, and the body collapses. The Spark enters the control harness and shoots up the wires as Megatron's voice cackles: "Free...at last. Free at last!"

[[Image:PrometheusUnbound Grand Mal awakens.jpg|left|thumb|200px|Megatron forgot to turn down his headlights again.]]
The Maximals charge outside to see the [[Grand Mal|giant Megatron head]] now fully animated. Megatron delightedly explains that "Noble" was just a ruse, his gigantic eyes glowing in synch with his words. Nightscream is crushed. Megatron explains further: "For an eternity, I slaved to free myself from the organic material contaminating my otherwise perfect technological body. I finally succeeded in separating the two, but my Spark remained with the wrong half—the organic half. I knew that the answer to curing myself lay inside my citadel, but as an organic beast, I could never hope to enter it and survive. Which is why I needed ''you''...Nightscream. Naive. Headstrong. And utterly malleable. You proved the perfect pawn...and now, in gratitude, I will free ''you'' from your organic bodies."

The big floating head fires a beam into the planet, and all systems come back on-line—including the drone army, which storms to the attack. As the others fight them off, Rattrap opens up a panel, and Optimus orders a retreat. Nobody objects as the badly outnumbered group scurries underground.

The Maximals lament their faux victory. Nightscream is still shattered, and Rattrap offers his sincere sympathy.

Back in the empty citadel, Noble's eye opens, and he stirs with a growl...

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s
|c1=
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (2)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (3)
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (4)
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (5)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (6)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]]
|c2=
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (7)
*[[Tank Drone]]s (8)
*[[Aero Drone]]s (9)
*[[Motorcycle Drone]]s (10)

|c4=
*[[Noble (BM)|Noble]] (1)
}}

==Quotes==
'''Rattrap''': Oh, again we gotta play dogcatcher? 
'''Nightscream''': Maybe if we try treating him less like an animal and more like a person, he wouldn't want to escape. 
'''Cheetor''': Maybe so, Nightscream. But until Noble learns to control his Savage side, we have to restrain him for his own good. 
'''Rattrap''': ''(to Blackarachnia)'' Not to mention ours.
:—The Maximals discussing '''Noble's''' nightly escapes.

"I can't say why, but something about him gives me the creeps." 
"Well, let me see. Is it his eyes? The hair? Or maybe it's his little tendency to keep turning into a giant, wigged-out, flesh-eating ''gila monster''!"
:—'''Blackarachnia''' and '''Rattrap''' on Noble.

'''Rattrap''': Eh, where do you think Fido's going this time? 
'''Blackarachnia''': Gee, let me think...''the same place as the last five nights?''
:—Rattrap's not the only one who's talented at sarcasm.

"Are we unclear on the concept of 'no'?"
:—'''Optimus Primal'''

"Told you draggin' along the dragon was a mistake, but did you listen? No!"
:—'''Rattrap'''

''(After Savage has escaped into Megatron's citadel).'' 
'''Cheetor''': We better find him before he destroys the whole place, along with any hope of finding those sparks. 
'''Optimus Primal''': We'll split up. Nightscream, you and I will hunt for Savage. Rattrap, head for the throne room and tap into the mainframe. Cheetor and Blackarachnia, watch his tail. 
'''Blackarachnia''': Oh, the glamorous assignment.
:—'''Blackarachnia''' continues to display her razor-sharp wit.

'''Cheetor:''' "Something's following us." 
'''Rattrap:''' "Aw, man, I sure hope it ain't Savage." 
'''Blackarachnia:''' "You better hope it is. Anything else is bound to be worse." 
'''Rattrap:''' "Oh, brighten my day."
:—The good news just keeps coming for Rattrap

"Must be the maid's day off."
:—'''Rattrap''' regarding the state of the citadel

"Hey guys, how do you like the new housecoat?" 
"Frumpy, but functional."
:—'''Rattrap''' tries on Megatron's control harness and '''Blackarachnia''' gives her opinion.

'''Rattrap''': ''(using Megatron's control harness)'' Now, ok, let's see, got it, got it, get it, got it... 
'''Cheetor''': You searching for those missing sparks? 
'''Rattrap''': No, I'm reading the Sunday funnies... ''What do you think I'm doing?!''
:—'''Rattrap''' hacking '''Megatron's''' database.

"Ok, who ordered the charbroiled rat?"
:—'''Rattrap''' after being blasted out of Megatron's control harness by Savage.

"Why do I have a bad feeling about this?" 
"Past experience?"
:—'''Blackarachnia''' and '''Cheetor'''

"For an eternity, I slaved to free myself from the organic material contaminating my otherwise perfect technological body. I finally succeeded in separating the two, but my Spark remained with the wrong half—the organic half. I knew that the answer to curing myself lay inside my citadel—but as an organic beast, I could never hope to enter it and survive. Which is why I needed you…Nightscream. Naive. Headstrong. And utterly malleable. You proved the perfect pawn." 
"NOOO!" 
"And now in gratitude, I will free you from ''your organic bodies!''" 
:—'''Megatron''' adds insult to injury for '''Nightscream''' and prepares to add further injury to the Maximals.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*A handful of noticeable clipping errors:
**Blackarachnia's finger into her left boob as she says "something about him gives me the creeps"
**Rattrap's hand through his ear as he makes a hair-stroking motion
**Rattrap's helmet into his tail after Savage knocks him over to Primal's feet
**Noble's claws through his left thigh upon entering the citadel
**And after donning it, the back of Megatron's helmet and its cables through Noble's entire backside

===Continuity errors===
*The Maximals don't revert to their beast forms as usual after being knocked out by the mines.

===Transformers references===
*Rattrap describes Megatron's [[Grand Mal|big floating head]] as a tribute to [[Unicron]].

===Real-world references===
*''Prometheus Unbound'' is the title of [[wikipedia:Prometheus Unbound (Aeschylus)|an incomplete play]] by Aeschylus, which inspired a play [[wikipedia:Prometheus Unbound (Shelley)|of the same name]] by Percy Shelley. Both concern Prometheus, a character in Greek mythology who stole fire from Mount Olympus and gave it to humans; as punishment, he was cast into Hades and tied to a rock, where an eagle ate his liver every day. Megatron in ''Beast Machines'' seems to see himself as a figure akin to Prometheus, bringing the 'gifts' of freedom from organic matter, individuality, and consciousness; as well as technological perfection, to all of Cybertron. Up until now, he has been going to increasing lengths to purge himself of his own organic components, which he sees as a contamination of his mechanical purity; being trapped in a purely organic body as a result thus mirrors Prometheus's torment in Hades. The act of freeing his spark from Noble's body and bringing it to a purely technological existence is compared to Prometheus breaking free from his bond in order to confront Zeus. In Aeschylus's play, Prometheus and Zeus eventually reconcile; in Shelley's, Zeus is cast down, freeing humans and gods from his tyranny. Both of the endings foreshadow [[Endgame Pt. III: Seeds of the Future|the final episode]].
*Rattrap refers to the "[[wikipedia:Sunday comics|Sunday funnies]]".

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Prométhée'''" ("Prometheus")

:*''Title:'' "'''Promethéus'''" ("Prometheus")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Kaibutsu no o Mezame'''" (怪物のお目覚め, "The Monster's Awakening")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[December 26]], [[2004]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Prometeo Liberado'''" ("Prometheus Unbound")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2005 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 4 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season Two: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season Two (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 2 (Sony) — French audio only.

[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

Savage Noble

2014-11-03T09:14:59Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=15
|image=SavageNoble title.jpg
|caption=''Puff, the magic dragon, lived by the sea...''
|title="Savage Noble"
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|airdate=[[February 16]], 2000
|written by=[[Len Wein]]
|directed by=[[Greg Donis]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuity=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''The Maximals discover two strange new organic creatures, but what secrets do they hide?'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:SavageNoble Maximals Grand Mal.jpg|left|thumb|200px|I see you.]]
The [[Maximal]]s stare up at the [[Grand Mal|giant floating head]] of [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]]. [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] despairs, waiting for the hammer to drop, then is shocked when nothing happens. [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Primal]] suspects that, for some reason, Megatron ''can't'' do anything.

[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] hauls [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] up for a closer look; both are repelled by an energy field, but Primal again suspects it's purely automated.

Optimus sends the others to find [[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] and [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]], while he attempts to contact Megatron's [[Spark]]. Nightscream leads the group to one of his old hangouts, a big, generator-filled room with a waterfall. Blast-marks on the walls show that the [[Vehicon general|Vehicon Generals]] were fighting someone or something recently. The [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]]s themselves attack just then, with Thrust vowing vengeance for the ambush.

[[Image:SavageNoble Savage approaches.jpg|right|thumb|200px|"Ah, hello! I'm trying to start a book club, and I was wondering if you'd...hey, where are you going?"]]
The two teams exchange words, with Blackarachnia still trying to reach [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] within Jetstorm. A fight is about to break out, when an eerie howling distracts the group and finally convinces the Vehicons that the Maximals didn't attack them. [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] leads the others off in a hasty retreat. The Vehicons follow as something massive, spiky, scaly, and four-legged lumbers in the shadows behind them. The group pauses a moment later to observe the beast, a dragon-like creature with spikes on its wings, lips, nose, claws, legs, torso, you name it. They retreat as it begins a firebolt-spewing advance.

Elsewhere, Optimus goes on a spiritual hunt. He enters the Spark/astral/whatever plane, calling out to his old foe. He's answered by Megatron's bellowing voice; insubstantial visions of Megatron's head surround him, laughing, mocking, screaming....and the vision ends. Primal suspects that whatever he just contacted wasn't a sentient mind.

Cheetor, meanwhile, orders the group to stand down, not wanting to destroy the creature before they can figure out what it is. Jetstorm isn't happy about taking orders from Cheets, but the creature easily repels his and Thrust's attacks, knocking them out. A random shot buries the Maximals long enough for the creature to escape.

[[Image:SavageNoble Noble cowers.jpg|left|thumb|200px|"I am not an animal! I am not—oh, wait, I guess I am."]]
The Maximals track the creature to higher levels in the generator plant, and there discover a wolf-like creature hiding shyly in the shadows. Nightscream suspects the beast is another survivor, like him. The Maximals offer friendship, and the creature introduces himself as [[Noble (BM)|Noble]] and recounts (in [[Forbidden Fruit|a very familiar fashion]]) the story of the Vehicon invasion. Noble fell into a pit and awoke in his current form.

Further pleasantries are interrupted by a strafing attack by Jetstorm and Thrust, hunting for the dragon, Savage. But before the Maximals can even worry about defending their new friend, he disappears while their backs are turned.

Cheetor contacts Optimus, who still hasn't found any trace of Megatron. The group goes hunting for Noble. They find the dragon-creature, growling ferociously. Nightscream is convinced the beast has done away with Noble and leaps to attack. Only Blackarachnia's quick thinking keeps him from getting blasted with fire-breath. The group follows as the creature flies off, since they can't leave it loose in [[Cybertropolis]].

[[Image:SavageNoble Noble with wings.jpg|right|thumb|200px|"What? What are you staring at? Have I got some dirt on my face?"]]
Primal arrives and orders the group to split up to cover more ground. Rattrap eventually finds the beast, which has him cornered and petrified. To his relief, it chooses to ignore him. Cheetor hems the beast in by chopping down a bridge, and the others stop it from the other direction. Primal begins to approach the beast, offering understanding and compassion. The Vehicon generals arrive and find the beast surrounded, but the dragon bats them away with a tail-slash, sending them over the horizon. After a long moment of carefully approaching the beast, Nightscream touches Savage and calms him enough for him to transform...into Noble. The two creatures are one, a beast-to-beast [[Transformer]].

Primal vows to help Noble, even as Noble warns that he can't control his other half. Nightscream reassures him, and Noble smiles to himself—just a bit ominously, yesss...

==Featured characters==
{{Featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s
|c1=
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (2)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (3)
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (4)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (5)
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (6)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]]s
|c2=
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (1)
*[[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] (7)
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (8)

|c4=
*[[Noble (BM)|Noble]] (9)

}}

==Quotes==
"I'm going in for a closer look." 
"Isn't he ugly enough from here?"
:—'''Blackarachnia''' and '''Nightscream''' discuss Megatron's giant head.

"Get it through your CPU! That program has been deleted. I'm Jetstorm. PERIOD!"
:—'''Jetstorm''' shouts at Blackarachnia. Meanwhile, the wire in his forehead is about to explode.

"We don't know what this thing is or where it came from - We're not going to find out by destroying it." 
"Tell you what, pussycat, we'll bring you back the biggest pieces and you can ask 'em anything you want."
:—'''Cheetor''' and '''Jetstorm''', shortly before the Vehicons get their butts kicked.

"Nice teamwork, Maximals! You catch 'em, we fillet 'em!"
:—'''Jetstorm''', shortly before getting his butt kicked ''again''.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*When the two Vehicon generals approach the Maximals, Thrust clasps his fingers together, causing them to clip into the barrel of his built-in blaster.
*Nightscream's ankle-wings occasionally clip through his hands as he hovers toward the surrounded Savage.

===Continuity errors===
*As the Vehicons rush headlong towards Savage, Thrust and Jetstorm address him by name… almost ''immediately'' after Cheetor declares that "we don't know what this thing is." It seems, however, that Jetstorm and Thrust have come up with the name for the dragon, as a means of taunting it. Noble picks up on this when he names himself, as the diametrically opposed Dr. Jekyll to Savage's Mr. Hyde, an opposition that isn't entirely [[Prometheus Unbound|true]].

===Transformers references===
*When Optimus attempts to make contact with Megatron's spark, he is tormented by numerous heads modelled on Megatron's original and Transmetal designs from [[Beast Wars: Transformers (cartoon)|Beast Wars]].

===Real-world references===
* The title "Savage Noble" is a play on the "[[Wikipedia:Noble savage|noble savage]]" of the eighteenth-century cult of primitivism, in which New World "savages" were seen as innocent and unsullied, the core goodness of their humanity free of the chains of civilization and technology. The "savage noble" inversion might suggest the opposite oxymoron: someone so civilized he has become a monster. Not only is that literally true in this episode, where the cogent Noble is prone to turning into the animalistic Savage, but [[Prometheus Unbound|the next episode]] would reveal him to be secretly Megatron trapped in a hated organic form, yearning for access to the technology that would set him free.

===Trivia===
* This marks the first time we see a Cybertronian use an obscene hand gesture, in which Thrust actually flips Cheetor [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finger_(gesture) the bird]. Granted, Thrust only has three-fingered claws for hands, it was still a shocker nonetheless.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Noble Sauvage'''" ("Savage Noble")

:*''Title:'' "'''Noble et Sauvage'''" ("Noble and Savage")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Kaibutsu no Nayami'''" (怪物の悩み, "The Monster's Anguish")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[December 25]], [[2004]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''El Buen Salvaje'''" ("The Noble Savage")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2005 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 4 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season Two: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season Two (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 2 (Sony) — French audio only.

[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

Fallout (episode)

2014-11-03T09:14:39Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{disambig3|Fallout}}
{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=14
|image=Fallout title.jpg
|caption=War. War never changes.
|title="Fallout"
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|airdate=[[February 9]], 2000
|written by=[[Bob Skir|Robert N. Skir]] [[Marty Isenberg]]
|directed by=[[Raul Sanchez Inglis]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuity=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''After releasing a doomsday weapon, Optimus Primal must face the consequences of his actions.'''

==Synopsis==
The storm continues to rage, as [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (controlling the lethal [[Plasma Energy Chamber]]) and [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (wielding the deadly [[Key to Vector Sigma]]) fight, pushing their energies back and forth.

[[Image:Fallout Primal void.jpg|left|thumb|200px|Open the pod bay doors, Teletraan.]]
As this happens, Optimus Primal sinks into the [[Allspark|Matrix]] again, seeing a vision of [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] destroyed. He lashes out and blames Megatron, who takes no credit. Cybertron is doomed not because of Megatron's actions, but because of ''Primal''. Suddenly, Optimus finds himself back on prehistoric [[Earth]], the battleground where the [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]] were fought and where he proved himself a true leader.

Optimus Primal is attacked, not by Megatron or another marauding [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]], but by a red-eyed copy of himself. The clone scolds Primal for his fanatical behavior and pushes him off a cliff, sending him plummeting back into space. Faces come and go, and he finds himself being blamed by the [[Maximal]]s he led in all their various forms and faces, blamed that he failed them. Primal realizes that ''he'' must make his own decisions, not the computer. The [[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]] acknowledges this fact, but tells him that his fate still lies with him.

The arrival of another old friend, [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]], comforts him. He has suffered the consequences for his actions, he tells his former friend, and must remain in the Matrix. Primal shoots through another tunnel where the faces of [[Transformer]]s he has yet to encounter flash before him and finds himself back in the heated battle. Taking control of both energies, he redirects them back into the Matrix itself. The remaining Maximals reawaken, back in their techno-organic bodies and free of the Key's energies.

[[Image:Fallout Megatron disintegrates.jpg|right|thumb|200px|[[Gold Plastic Syndrome]] claims another victim.]]
With Megatron gone, the Maximals are the only active Cybertronians on the planet. An eerie wind blows as the camera pans over the discarded bodies of [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]] Drones. Finding one another, the surviving Maximals head to the throne room in the Citadel, only to find the bodies of their former friends—and foes. Megatron's body crumbles to dust, leaving only his control-shell. When [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] touches the inert body of [[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]], it falls to pieces. Cheetor looks at Optimus Primal's flattened body, lamenting the fallen "Big Bot". Unsympathetic, [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] says that [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] only ever wanted him out of the way. Angered, Cheetor denies the fact, but reluctantly takes control.

Outside, Rattrap plugs into Cybertron's system, only to find that the planet is, in fact, brain-dead. But things change when [[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] and [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] show up, and the Maximals and Vehicons prepare for another fight. Cheetor comes between them, telling them that the war is over, while [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] invites Jetstorm onto their side. The two [[Vehicon general]]s leave.

[[Image:Fallout Optimus in Oracle.jpg|left|thumb|200px|Finally justification for a supreme-class Primal.]]
Some time after this, the Maximals decide to head down to the Oracle in [[The Reformatting|an oddly familiar manner]]. However, the foursome find Optimus Primal inside the Oracle. Communicating with them via the supercomputer, he asks that the Maximals forgive him for being a zealot and his genocidal behavior. Rattrap protests, as "there is nothing to forgive", but Optimus does not listen and disappears. Back in the void, he sees the collective [[spark]]s of Cybertron past, present, and future, inviting him into the Transformer afterlife: the Matrix. But Optimus has other plans. He is ready to join the Matrix, but not today.

[[Image:Fallout Maximals orchid.jpg|right|thumb|200px|"It looks like the cameraman needs a hug."]]
Optimus Primal steps out into real-space again, and the Oracle tells him that it has taught him everything and that he must make his own way in his mission. Around him, plants spring upwards, as Optimus explains to the Maximals their destiny: not to have the organic destroy the mechanical, but to create a balance, the same way that the Oracle did with him. Cybertron to be neither purely organic or purely technological world, but a [[technorganic]] world.

Finally, the Maximals head above ground, only to find themselves face-to-giant-face with [[Grand Mal|an enormous vessel bearing the likeness of Megatron]]!
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s
|c1=
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (1)
*[[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]] (2)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (5)
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (6)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (7)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (8)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]]s
|c2=
*[[Tank Drone]]s (3)
*[[Aero Drone]]s (4)
*[[Motorcycle Drone]]s (10)
*[[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] (11)
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (12)
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (13)

|c4=
*[[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]] (9)

}}
==Quotes==
"My spark has rejoined the Matrix. I paid the price for my misguided deeds, but it is not too late for you. Embrace the true nature of your spark."
:—'''Rhinox''' dispenses advice.

"If I had to guess, I'd say we won't be getting any holiday cards from him for a while."
:—'''Rattrap''''s own special way of saying "He's dead, Jim."

"Ah, y'know, this place just ain't gonna be the same without Megatron's toys to play with. Wha?" 
"Be careful what you wish for, cheddar-breath!"
:—'''Rattrap''' and '''Jetstorm'''

"Why is she so hung up on getting her old boyfriend's spark outta that guy?" 
"Eh, you're young. You'll learn."
:—'''Nightscream''' and '''Rattrap'''

"Forget it, spider-lady! I just lost my boss, everything is falling apart. I'm not losing my only friend as well!" 
"We're friends?" 
"Why not?"
:—'''Thrust''' and '''Jetstorm''', you can feel the bromance between the two

'''Optimus:''' "All I ask is you forgive me my transgressions so I can move on from this plane." 
'''Rattrap:''' "There's... nothing to forgive, Optimus." 
'''Nightscream:''' "You gave me a family when I lost everyone." 
'''Blackarachnia:''' "You lead us to victory at the cost of your own life." 
'''Cheetor:''' "I can forgive you for your mistakes, but not for giving up. Without your leadership, we'd have all gone offline when we first hit this planet. Without your guidance, we'd would've never mastered transforming in these technorganic bodies. And without your vision, Cybertron will never truly be restored."
:—The Maximals try to convince Optimus to return from the Matrix.

"But the Matrix never intended for the organic to replace the technological. It didn't want us to fight a war, but to create a balance. the technorganic balance between the machine and the organic. Yes, I am ready to join the Matrix, but not today."
:—'''Optimus''' realises he does actually have something to live for.

"Congratulations, Optimus Primal. You have passed your greatest test by asserting your own free will, the very thing that makes you more than a mere machine. Clearly there is nothing left to teach you. The time has come for you to seize your own destiny."
:—The '''Oracle''' gives Optimus a passing grade.

==Notes==
===Continuity errors===
* The recap at the start of this episode concludes with Optimus Primal's hand disintegrating and him insisting that "if this is the will of the Matrix, then so be it". However, the [[End of the Line|cliffhanger]] simply ended with Optimus Primal looking on as his hand disintegrated.

===Transformers references===
*When the four remaining Maximals head downwards to the Oracle, it is very similar to the same sequence in [[The Reformatting]].
*As he exits the [[Allspark|Matrix]] and comes back to life, Optimus has brief prophetic visions of [[Noble (BM)|characters]] [[Botanica (BM)|who]] [[Obsidian (BM)|have]] [[Strika (BM)|not]] actually appeared yet.
*Rhinox must remain in the Matrix forever. [[Homecoming (Universe)|Until he doesn't]]. Except [[Singularity Ablyss|when he gets killed even deader]]. (Multiple canons are fun, kids!) Either way, in-show, this is the last appearance of Rhinox/Tankor.
*The [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]] gets referred to, with the [[retcon]] of the Matrix wanting them to go to prehistoric Earth to pick up beast modes there (or so Optimus figures). Since it was Megatron who decided to go there, then either Optimus is reading too much into it or the Matrix has been giving Megatron some nudges...
*This episode features clips from the ''Beast Wars'' episodes "[[Aftermath]]", "[[Cutting Edge]]", "[[Feral Scream Part 1]]", "[[Feral Scream Part 2]]", and "[[Nemesis Part 2|''Nemesis'' Part 2]]".

===Trivia===
*Amusingly, Blackarachnia tells Jetstorm right in his face, "You don't want to be Silverbolt again? Fine. I won't force you." [[In Darkest Knight|Oh, really?]]

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Retombées'''" ("Fallout")

:*''Title:'' "'''La Chute'''" (Canada, "The Fall")

'''Japanese
:*''Title:'' "'''Shōri no Daishō'''" (勝利の代償, "The Cost of Victory")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[December 19]], [[2004]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Lluvia Radiactiva'''" ("Radioactive Fallout")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2005 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 4 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season Two: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season Two (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 2 (Sony) — French audio only.

[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

End of the Line

2014-11-03T09:14:01Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=13
|image=End of Line Optimus Megatron fight.jpg
|caption=Monkey hate technology. Robot hate the monkey. They will fight eternally.
|title="End of the Line"
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|airdate=December 18, 1999
|written by=[[Steven Melching]]
|directed by=[[Mark Sawers]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuity=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''Megatron and Optimus are set to go head to head with dueling doomsday weapons, and both seem willing to destroy Cybertron to gain victory.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:End of Line Tankor key holograms.jpg|left|It's like Wizard Chess, but with munkies.|thumb|200px]]
[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] and [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] hack into [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]]'s central computer, looking for clues to who has tampered with the [[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]], but turn up nothing. Finally, just as Rattrap is about to find something, they're chased off by [[Tank Drone]]s and soon find themselves surrounded. Rattrap throws some bombs which cover the tanks in vines, disabling them, and the two [[Maximal]]s scarper.

Meanwhile, the [[Diagnostic Drone]] reports the [[Key to Vector Sigma]] has been downloaded to all of the tank drones. [[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]] is pleased, until he tries to command the drones and discovers he no longer has control of them. He realises instead he will need to get Megatron to deploy them.

[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] has another vision from the Oracle, which tells him he must undertake his final journey. As he's telling [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] and [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] that he knows how to defeat Megatron, the other two Maximals arrive to report that Megatron has loaded the Key program into the tank drones.

[[Image:End of Line Optimus Cheetor Plasma Chamber.jpg|right|thumb|200px]]
The Diagnostic Drone disengages from the Oracle, reporting that he just created a counterfeit vision. Tankor monitors the Maximals, who are strolling through the city in robot mode. They reach a dead end, and turn back, but Optimus' eyes glow and a pair of huge doors open. They ride an elevator downwards to the [[Plasma Energy Chamber]], which Optimus believes he can control. As he speaks, a [[Vehicon Mole]] appears, and he orders the Maximals into beast mode, before unleashing a bolt of energy from the chamber which vaporises the drone. He explains to the amazed Maximals that plasma energy will overload any electrical-mechanical systems. He plans to shut down everything technological on the entire planet. Cheetor tries to talk Optimus out of global Armageddon. Optimus shuts down the chamber and listens to Cheetor's alternate plan—use the seed grenades to keep the tank drones busy while Rattrap searches for a way to disable the Keys.

[[Image:End of Line Tank drone vine bomb.jpg|left|thumb|200px]]
Tankor is pleased that Optimus has found the Plasma Energy Chamber, knowing that Optimus would never use it, but knowing that Megatron could never take that chance. Indeed Megatron is very annoyed when told about the discover by the Diagnostic Drone, who suggests that the Key weapon be deployed before Optimus has a chance to use the chamber. The tank drones are deployed around a huge structure which rises from the surface of Cybertron and are promptly attacked by the Maximals, throwing them into disarray. Megatron orders the Maximals' destruction.

Rattrap hacks into Megatron's computer again, only to find Tankor waiting to blast him. With Rattrap disabled, Tankor uses his link with the Diagnostic Drone to try to get Megatron to fire the Key weapon. Megatron doesn't believe that Optimus would ever use the Plasma Energy Chamber, and becomes more suspicious of the Drone, disabling it. Tankor rages that he will not be denied and leaves Rattrap's twitching [[technomatter]] self calling out to Optimus for help.

[[Image:End of Line Optimus Megatron energies.jpg|right|thumb|200px]]
Optimus rushes into the [[Council Citadel]] to confront Megatron. The pair fight, and Megatron shows on monitors the other Maximals being transformed into technomatter. Optimus argues that it is the will of the Matrix that the organic prevail, and Megatron transforms into beast mode in rage. As they wrestle, Optimus attempts to reformat his opponent, but Tankor arrives in time to zap Optimus into technomatter. Before Tankor can zap Megatron as well, he's restrained in energy bonds. Megatron transforms and thanks Tankor for his help in handing him victory.

As Megatron gloats over Optimus, the Maximal sends a mental command to open the Plasma Energy Chamber. The unleashed plasma energy begins ripping through Cybertron, and Megatron command his tank drones to fire the Key weapon. The conflicting energies create a maelstrom, swirling across the planet. Optimus Primal's hand disintegrates before his eyes.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s
|c1=
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (1)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (2)
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (6)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (7)
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (8)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]]s
|c2=
*[[Tank Drone]]s (3)
*[[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]] (4)
*[[Diagnostic Drone]] (5)
*[[Vehicon Mole]] (10)
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (11)
*[[Aero Drone]]s (12)
*[[Motorcycle Drone]]s (13)
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (14)
*[[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] (15)

|c4=
*[[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]] (9)

}}
==Quotes==
"You must make one final journey. Complete your destiny. Tip the balance, Optimus. Transform your world or suffer extinction."
:—Optimus' fake Oracle vision.

"Shut down Megatron for good, along with everything technological on the entire planet, right down to the last diode."
:—'''Optimus''' on what he plans to do with the plasma energy.

"He found WHAT?! The plasma energy chamber is only a legend." 
"As was the Key to Vector Sigma. Do you detect a pattern forming here?"
:—'''Megatron''' and the increasingly sarcastic '''Diagnostic Drone'''.

"Hmmm, do I detect a personal stake in this contest?" 
"Why, only that of my master." 
"And which 'master' would that be?"
:—'''Megatron''' and '''Diagnostic Drone''', moments before the latter's destruction

"No planet is alive, Optimus, merely infested, and I intend to restore it to its natural condition." 
"Over my sparkless body." 
"My sentiments exactly."
:—'''Megatron''' and '''Optimus'''.

"You can't destroy me — it's hardwired into your programming! Did you think I would grant you a spark and not protect myself from your treachery? You've been the perfect pawn all along, your independent mind weaving webs of deceit that I would never have conceived. I must thank you! If I had never let you roam free, I never would have obtained the key to my victory!"
:—'''Megatron''' calls Tankor stupid.

"I... still... control... the... Plasma... Energy... Chamber." 
"HAHAHAHAHA! An empty threat, my dear Optimus! You've always lacked the machine-like clarity to do what is logical — and necessary — to win!" 
"Not... this... time!" 
"LET THE FATES FALL WHERE THEY MAY!" 
:—'''Optimus''' and '''Megatron''' shoot their apocalyptic doomsday weapons at each other ''(and at everything else too)''.

==Notes==
* This episode contains one of [[The many deaths of Optimus Prime|the many deaths of Optimus Primal]].

===Animation and technical errors===
*For the first half of the episode, Tankor is consistently portrayed using a plain tank drone body, rather than his known appearance.
*After Cheetor throws the bombs on the Tank drones, but just before his feet reach the ground, his left foot makes a 360° rotation.
*Wile grabbing the tail of Megatron's dragon form, one of its prongs passes through Optimus' hand.
*Megatron's transformation back into his robot mode again recycles animation of his shiny ''Beast Wars'' texturing.

===Transformers references===
*The Plasma Energy Chamber first appeared in "[[The Rebirth, Part 1]]".
*It appears that Megatron remembered what happened the last time he [[Dark Designs|reprogrammed]] [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]] as evil (he came closer than most to usurping Megatron), and apparently knew since "[[Revelations Part III: Apocalypse]]" that Tankor has gone rogue. You didn't think Megatron would neglect to include a fail-safe this time.

===Real-world references===
*Rattrap refers to "[[wikipedia:Control-Alt-Delete|Control-Alt-Delete]]".
*Megatron's line as he activates his doomsday weapon is a quote of antagonist Tyler Durden from the movie ''[[Wikipedia:Fight Club|Fight Club]]''.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Guerre Techno-Organique, Partie III'''" ("Techno-Organic War, Part III")

:*''Title:'' "'''La Fin de la Route'''" (Canada, "The End of the Road")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Kecchaku no Toki'''" (決着の時, "The Moment of Truth")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[December 18]], [[2004]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Guerra Tecno-Orgánica, Parte Tres: El Final de la Línea'''" ("Techno-Organic War, Part Three: The End of the Line")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2005 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 4 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume Two ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume Two — Revelations (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season One (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 1 (Sony) — French audio only.

[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

The Catalyst

2014-11-03T09:13:47Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=12
|image=Catalyst Rattrap vine uhoh.jpg
|caption=Rattrap's crossover into ''[[Transformers: Kiss Players (franchise)|Kiss Players]]'' ended on a rather sour note.
|title="The Catalyst"
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|airdate=December 11, 1999
|written by=[[Bob Skir|Robert N. Skir]] [[Marty Isenberg]]
|directed by=[[Steve Sacks]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuity=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''Rattrap uses a catalyst program to accelerate the growth of the plants at the Maximal stronghold, and Blackarachnia learns the truth about Thrust.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:KeyEnergyStrike.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Now with 500x the iron of normal vegetables!]]
The [[Maximal]]s have set up a system to keep their orchard supplied with the [[organic goo]] provided by [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], and are holding a memorial service for [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]], unaware that they're being spied on by [[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]]. Tankor is also spying on [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]], who asks [[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] and [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] what happened to the third of his [[Vehicon general]]s prior to his apparent death. The [[Diagnostic Drone]] informs Megatron about the discovery of the [[Key to Vector Sigma]], and Tankor's subsequent overloading while using it. The Drone suggests attaching copies of the Key to the drones and using them to purge Cybertron of all organic matter. When Megatron asks what it'll do to his beast mode, the Drone says it will be eliminated, and inadvertently begins to repeat Tankor's ramblings about how it will also drive Megatron mad, before covering his blunder. Although suspicious, Megatron orders the key be attached to [[Aero Drone|Aero]] and [[Motorcycle Drone]]s and tested on a Maximal, much to Tankor's annoyance.

[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] uses the ancient computers to run a planet-wide search for more organic goo, but is interrupted by [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]], who needs the goo herself to try to turn Thrust back into [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]]. Rattrap reluctantly lets her take the sample.

Meanwhile, the Diagnostic Drone is taking Jetstorm and Thrust on a wild goose chase on Tankor's orders. Tankor intends to give Megatron a change of heart.

[[Image:RattrapVined.jpg|right|200px|thumb|I've heard of weed killers, but killer weeds?]]
Rattrap has had some measure of success, turning up a catalyst program. He returns to the orchard, where the catalyst dramatically increases the plant-growth, and he's carried into the air by vines. [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]], [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] and [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] turn up to rescue him from the clutches of the plant life.

Blackarachnia locates the searching [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]] and attacks, seizing Thrust and carrying him off. The Aero Drones zap her web line with the keys they're carrying, and she's forced to detach, falling to the ground.

Optimus tells Rattrap to try his experiments on a small scale next time, but the other Maximals think he's wrong and that the fast-growing vines would be a great weapon against Megatron. Optimus goes to commune with the [[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]] while the others clear up.

Up in the city, Blackarachnia knocks out Jetstorm and the Diagnostic Drone before leading Thrust to a more secluded location where she traps him in a web. Dosed with goo, Thrust reverts to his old personality—[[Waspinator (BW)|Waspinator]]. Waspinator explains that he got bored on prehistoric [[Earth]] and flew back to Cybertron, which according to him, "took forever."<ref>Some depictions of this story may differ from Waspinator's account, namely video footage</ref> Blackarachnia is more than a little disappointed that he's not Silverbolt, but they're interrupted by Jetstorm, who knocks the container of goo from Blackarachnia's hand and is dosed with it. Jetstorm's old personality comes out, and this time it's Silverbolt.

Rattrap admits to Cheetor and Nightscream what the spider's up to. Nightscream volunteers to get Optimus, but Cheetor has other plans. Optimus, meanwhile, is having problems accessing the Oracle.

[[Image:BlackarachniaWaspinatorSilverbolt.jpg|left|200px|thumb|This is the best laser show EVER!!]] Silverbolt and Waspinator fight over Blackarachnia, but they're interrupted by the arrival of Aero and Motorcycle Drones, which neither Vehicon realises they can control. The power of the Keys eliminates the goo, reverting Thrust and Jetstorm to their normal selves, and they order the drones to close in. Fortunately the other three Maximals burst in riding a giant vine, and pick up Blackarachnia, whisking her away to safety.

Diagnostic Drone reports failure to Megatron, but he's been monitoring the situation anyway. The drones zap the huge vine with their keys, changing it to [[technomatter]]. The Maximals leap off before they're infected, but Rattrap announces they have to sever the vines to stop the infection spreading to the orchid and Cybertron's organic core. They race alongside the vine, chasing the infection until it reaches the orchid. Optimus spots the problem and frantically begins breaking vines. He succeeds, and rounds on Cheetor for disobeying orders, before informing him that he believes the Oracle has been tampered with.

Tankor, through the Diagnostic Drone, convinces Megatron to load the Key into all of the tank drones, and muses to himself that it's all thanks to the catalyst program he let Rattrap find.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s
|c1=
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (1)
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (2)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (3)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (4)
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (5)
*[[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] (16)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]]s
|c2=
*[[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]]/[[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]] (6)
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (7)
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (8)
*[[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] (9)
*[[Diagnostic Drone]] (10)
*[[Aero Drone]]s (11)
*[[Motorcycle Drone]]s (12)

|h3=[[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]]s
|c3=
*[[Waspinator (BW)|Waspinator]] (14)

|c4=
*[[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]] (13)
*[[Protohuman]]s (15)
*[[Chak]] (16)
*[[Una]] (17)

}}

==Quotes==
"And so we pause, to reflect on our departed friend Rhinox, rather than the enemy Tankor he became. For all possibilities exist within our sparks, and each of us is vulnerable to the path of darkness."
:—'''Optimus Primal'''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s eulogy to Rhinox.

"Your glorious army will shine less brightly without his guiding... can I have his tank drones?"
:—'''Jetstorm''', that greedy son of a...

'''Diagnostic Drone:''' "My scanners indicate a Maximal signature right in this vicinity." 
'''Jetstorm:''' "If it's so close, why can't we-" 
'''Computer:''' "Maximal signature detected." 
'''Diagnostic Drone:''' "What?"
:—The hunt takes an unexpected turn.

"Nooooooo. Doggie-bot not here."
:—'''Waspinator's''' first words when reactivated in Thrust's body.

"Fleshy-bots worship Waspinator day in, day out. Waspinator bored. Fleshy-bots beg Waspinator not go, but Waspinator miss Cybertron. Took forever, but waaaaaay worth it. Now Waspinator cooooool biker-bot. Hardly ever get blown up and... Hmmmmmm... Chick-bots diiiiiig brooding loner bit." 
"You mean I risked everything to save this... this... ''scrapheap?!?'' Eww!" 
"That mean spider-bot not go steady with Waspinator?"
:—'''Blackarachnia''' and '''Waspinator''', the wrong Scott McNeil character.

"Blackarachnia. Oh, dark poison of my heart!"
:—'''Silverbolt's''' first words when reactivated in Jetstorm's body.

==Notes==
===Technical Animation errors===
*During Megatron's conversation with the Diagnositc Drone at the beginning of the episode, his scar switches several times between his left and right eyes.

===Continuity errors===
* Silverbolt and Waspinator seem unaware that they are in Vehicon bodies with drones at their command. This is odd, considering that Rhinox was fully aware (or so he claims) within the body of Tankor, and even more so when Silverbolt feels guilt when he finally returns to the Maximal fold (although these can both be chalked up to the Maximals tampering with their respective programming). Even a few seconds ''before'' Waspinator acts oblivious to his command over the drones, he confesses "Chickbots dig brooding, loner bit!", ''acknowledging'' his role as Thrust. ''Huh?''

===Transformers references===
* [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] and [[Waspinator (BW)|Waspinator]]'s ''Beast Wars'' personalities emerge in this episode, albeit for a few minutes.
*This episode reunites all of the surviving Predacons of ''Beast Wars'' (not counting Megatron). Blackarachnia and Silverbolt originally started off as Predacons but later aligned themselves with the Maximals during the series, and Waspinator quit in "[[Nemesis Part 1]]".
*The remains of [[Quickstrike (BW)|Quickstrike]] and [[Inferno (BW)|Inferno]] can be briefly seen at the start of Waspinator's flashback, which hearkens back to their fate at the very end of "[[Nemesis Part 2]]".

===Trivia===
* It seems unusual that Megatron would threaten the [[Diagnostic Drone]] with a [[spark extractor]], seeing as how it doesn't ''have'' a [[spark]] to begin with.
* From this point on, Thrust stops helping Blackarachnia and she (and the other Maximals) show no interest in bringing him over. Admittedly Waspinator has said he ''likes'' being Thrust, but it does seem like they're not intending to reformat him because he's annoying and was never on their side to begin with.
* So ''Waspinator'' was able to break through Vehicon programming when facing Blackarachnia but Silverbolt either never was or just didn't, and he ''never did later'' even when his true love was directly appealing to him. This raises worrying questions about either Waspinator or Silverbolt, especially the latter as [[In Darkest Knight|he'll later admit]] how much he loved being a murderous villain...
* When people had asked if Waspinator was coming back, [[Bob Skir]] had replied "Waspinator, when last seen, was king of the cave-people... Why in the world would he want to leave there?". What a sneaky man! <ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20080614012630/http://bigbot.com/beast-machines-transformers-bob-skir/Beast-Machines-FAQ/Tue_12_Oct_1999.html Bob Skir FAQ from 12 October 1999]</ref>
* Some fans have interpreted the flashback scene of Waspinator being forcibly evicted from the proto-human tribe via slingshot as ''the method by which he was launched into space and made it back to Cybertron'', and subsequently gotten angry about that. If you are one of those people, slap yourself repeatedly until you stop thinking that.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Guerre Techno-Organique, Partie II'''" ("Techno-Organic War, Part II")

:*''Title:'' "'''Le Cataclysme'''" (Canada, "The Cataclysm")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Seimei no Mizu'''" (生命の水, "The Water of Life")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[December 12]], [[2004]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Guerra Tecno-Orgánica, Parte Dos: El Catalizador'''" ("Techno-Organic War, Part Two: The Catalyst")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2005 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 3 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume Two ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume Two — Revelations (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season One (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 1 (Sony) — French audio only.

==Footnotes==
<references />

{{DEFAULTSORT:Catalyst}}
[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

The Key

2014-11-03T09:13:33Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{disambig3|Key}}
{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=11
|image=Key titlescreen.jpg
|caption=We thank thee o'Lord, for this fanwank we are about to receive...
|title="The Key"
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|airdate=December 4, 1999
|written by=[[Marv Wolfman]]
|directed by=[[Sean Osborne]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuity=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''Tankor discovers an ancient weapon within the Oracle: the Key to Vector Sigma!'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:DroneVectorSigma.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Wheeeeeeeeeeeee!]]

[[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]] has returned to the chamber of the [[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]], this time with the [[Diagnostic Drone]] in tow. He disables a holographic inferno, revealing "the Oracle". Tankor waxes expository on the ancient [[Autobot]] [[datatrax]] that tell of the spheroid computer, [[Vector Sigma]], which he believes to be one and the same as the Oracle. More vital to Tankor's ambitions, however, is the legendary [[Key to Vector Sigma]], said to hold the power to "turn organics into [[technomatter]]".

Proving his tank body to be surprisingly spry, Tankor leaps into the air to enter the Oracle—only to be summarily and violently rejected as lacking a "receptive [[spark]]". Still determined, Tankor gambles that where he failed, an entirely spark-less drone will succeed—and wins. The drone emerges safely from "beyond comprehension", bearing codes that materialize to form the Key to Vector Sigma. Tankor begins plotting a field test of its powers.

Deep underground in the fossil cave, [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]]'s attempt at communing with the extinct is interrupted by the siren call of hard labor: drilling for [[water]]. [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] and [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] butt heads over the relative futility of well-digging versus a direct assault on an apparently complacent [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]]. Optimus proves to be justified, as the drill successfully penetrates an underground reservoir, not of water, but a mysterious [[organic goo|green goo]] that begins flooding the nascent orchard. The freshly planted seeds sprout instantly into full-grown plants—Optimus reflects on the Oracle's prophecy that the planet's [[organic core]] would revive organic life on Cybertron. However, the arrival of an aggressive Tankor swiftly overshadows this newfound source of hope.

[[Image:Nightscream technomattered.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"Help me! I'm being redecoed!"]]
Tankor disillusions Optimus Primal regarding the mythical nature of the Key with a demonstration: the conversion of the entire orchard into cold blue technomatter. A second shot from the Key aimed for an unflinching Optimus strikes a heroically suicidal Nightscream instead, reverting him to [[beast mode]]. Nightscream shivers in pain as his [[technorganic]] body evidently fights the conversion process—which appears to be contagious. Gloating himself into a frenzy, Tankor prepares to fire a third shot from the Key, only to grow increasingly distressed as he instead overloads and collapses. A posse of [[Tank Drone]]s led by the Diagnostic Drone barge into the cave to drag Tankor's body away to safety.

Nightscream's demeanor grows increasingly erratic, forcing [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] to confine him to a web cocoon, which itself becomes technomatter on contact. Noticing one of the plants has turned green again, Blackarachnia drops him into the pool of organic goo, which eases his pain, but proves too small in volume to be more than a temporary treatment for the disease. For a cure, they will require much, much more.

Optimus Primal orders [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] to track Tankor remotely, but Cheetor countermands that with a demand to repair the drill to excavate more goo. Both orders prove fruitless as both Tankor's energy signature and his spark are unreachable, and the drill is beyond repair. Cheetor suggests usurping one of Megatron's own [[Vehicon Mole]]s to drill to the organic core.

Megatron queries the Diagnostic Drone on the events surrounding Tankor's untimely demise, and the drone begins analyzing the fallen general's head...

Optimus, Cheetor, and Rattrap track a Mole on the surface to its home warehouse, only to run afoul of a fleet of [[Motorcycle Drone]]s which they dispatch with some strategic application of Running Away. Megatron observes all this from his headquarters, and shows off the upgraded buildings of [[Cybertropolis]], now fully mobile, airborne, and firmly under Megatron's personal control.

Escaping the narrowing alleyways between skyscrapers, Optimus leaps through and shatters one of Megatron's massive display screens to land inside the Moles' warehouse; the others follow suit. Once again Rattrap finds himself in the middle of one of Cheetor and Optimus Primal's arguments-by-proxy: Cheetor advocates taking control of a single Mole for escape, and Optimus wants control of the entire flight-capable warehouse.

Back in the fossil cave, Blackarachnia offers a thermos of goo to an increasingly mentally unstable Nightscream, who flies into a rage and attacks her. Her attempts to capture him and evade his touch both fail, and she finds herself infected by technomatter.

[[Image:Megatron with building.jpg|left|200px|thumb|The Megatron-in-the-Moon dislikes flying skyscrapers.]]
The Drones' warehouse has lifted off the ground, and falling support beams strike Cheetor unconscious. While Optimus protects him from drones' artillery, Rattrap interfaces with an actively resisting Mole. Megatron begins tilting the warehouse on its side, letting Maximals, drones, and all fall hundreds of feet out of the sky. Rattrap's appropriated drone somehow provides ample protection from the sudden stop as they hit the ground, and begins drilling.

The two surviving [[Vehicon general]]s offer to pursue the enemy underground, but Megatron already has an agent with the Maximals in its sights.

The three find Blackarachnia and Nightscream missing, but their plans to search for them are interrupted by the Mole opening fire. Nightscream takes this opportune moment to sweep into the cave, Blackarachnia riding him, both cackling insanely. Optimus bulldozes over Cheetor's knee-jerk objection and assaults the Mole while Rattrap finds himself cornered by the infected Blackarachnia. Cheetor is likewise trapped by a falling fossil as Nightscream menaces him, when an eruption of organic goo floods the orchard once again and showers all the Maximals, curing the technomatter affliction.

[[Image:Optimus organic goop.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Escape from Monkey Island!]]
Optimus emerges from the green geyser only to be, once again, the verbal target of a passive-aggressive Cheetor. Rattrap, however, is fed up with being used like a ball in a game of ping-pong, and Cheetor finally spells out what's been on his mind. He demands respect, particularly after [[Revelations Part II: Descent|filling the team's leadership role]] during [[Revelations Part III: Apocalypse|Optimus Primal's absence]] communing with the Oracle. Optimus points out that a team can't have two leaders, and Cheetor huffily concedes. Blackarachnia forebodes that the conflict is far from over, and "Some problems aren't that simple."

A sextet of Tank Drones bear the lifeless chassis of Tankor to an unknown destination under the guidance of the Diagnostic Drone, who summarily dismisses them. The drone addresses someone approaching just off-screen... the true Tankor, online and well. His plan has apparently worked perfectly, both sides of the conflict now convinced of his destruction. Tankor grasps his fallen double's appendage, causing its illusory shell to flicker, revealing the green wireframes beneath. He saws through the arm and the whole body reverts to a green outline, vanishing completely when he removes the Key from the hologram's grip.

Tankor contemplates the power now firmly in his servos, and revels in holding sole possession of "the key to a new Cybertron..."

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s
|c1=
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (4)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (5)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (6)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (7)
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (8)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]]s
|c2=
*[[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]]/[[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]] (1)
*[[Diagnostic Drone]] (2)
*[[Tank Drone]]s (9)
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (10)
*[[Vehicon Mole]]s (11)
*[[Motorcycle Drone]]s (12)
*[[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] (13)
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (14)

|c4=
*[[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]] (3)

}}
==Quotes==
"Pity, it appears we're in need of a receptive spark." 
"Or perhaps one who has no spark at all!" 
"I see where this is going."
:—'''Diagnostic Drone''' is tossed into Vector Sigma by '''Tankor'''.

"Paydirt! We struck, uh, goop?"
:—'''Rattrap'''

"The Key to Vector Sigma is mine! I now have the power to transform organics into metallic perfection! Shall I begin with you, [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|old friend]]?"
:—'''Tankor'''

"Enough! I am transformed!" 
"You are a fool, Optimus Primal! You, the Maximals and even Megatron himself are destined to failure. All organics will fall before me!"
:—'''Optimus Primal''' and '''Tankor'''

"Nice mole! Uncle Rattrap just wants to interface!"
:—'''Rattrap''' makes another disturbing choice of words.

"Cheer up, magnificence! We'll track down the livestock in no time."
:—'''Jetstorm''' shows Thrust he's not afraid to suck up.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
* When Tankor appears at the end of the episode, his model is missing the lights that are usually attached to his head in robot mode. You can even see this error in the preview picture on this page. Oddly enough, this error persists for quite a few episodes, particularly when Tankor is seen underground with the [[Diagnostic Drone]].

===Continuity errors===
* In the original [[The Key to Vector Sigma, Part 2|Generation 1 series]] the key's organic-to-technologic properties were described as being a "radically different effect" when the key was used on Earth. However, ''Beast Machines'' treats this property as normal behavior for the key, even on Cybertron.

===Transformers references===
* The [[Key to Vector Sigma]] was an important plot device during the Generation 1 cartoon, in particular, during [[The Key to Vector Sigma, Part 1|two]] [[The Key to Vector Sigma, Part 2|episodes]] of the same name.
* Rhinox/Tankor mockingly calls Optimus "old friend". On ''[[Beast Wars: Transformers (cartoon)|Beast Wars]]'', Optimus good-naturedly called Rhinox "old friend".

===Real-world references===
*The way that the Mole building spins as it falls is an homage to ''[[wikipedia:The Wizard of Oz (1939 film)|The Wizard of Oz]]'', when Dorothy's house is spinning in the tornado.

===Trivia===
* The decoy body that Tankor uses to fake his death is later revealed to be a [[holomatter|hologram]], which disappears when Tankor retrieves the key. Oddly enough, the decoy's shoulder cannon seems solid enough to be cut through by Tankor's saw, and also solid enough to physically ''hold'' the key. It's not clear why Tankor used a hologram instead of one of his nearly-identical tank drones. (In real-world terms, it was probably to make it clear to the viewer that the decoy wasn't real.)

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Guerre Techno-Organique, Partie I'''" ("Techno-Organic War, Part I")

:*''Title:'' "'''La Clé'''" (Canada, "The Key")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Tetsu no Seijaku'''" (鉄の静寂, "The Silence of Iron")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[December 11]], [[2004]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Guerra Tecno-Orgánica, Parte Uno: La Llave'''" ("Techno-Organic War, Part One: The Key")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2005 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 3 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume Two ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume Two — Revelations (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season One (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 1 (Sony) — French audio only.

{{DEFAULTSORT:Key}}
[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

Survivor

2014-11-03T09:13:14Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=10
|image=Survivor Nightscream chamber.jpg
|caption=We're sorry, Nightscream, but the tribe has spoken.
|title="Survivor"
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|airdate=[[November 27]], 1999
|written by=[[Brynne Chandler Reaves]]
|directed by=[[Dennis Heaton]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuity=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''Megatron targets Nightscream for capture, so he can learn more about how the Maximal was able to survive the virus.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:Survivor Megatron breath.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Megatron enjoys a good curry]]
In the [[Council Citadel]], [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] rages at yet another setback in purging his organic form. He changes to dragon mode and unleashes a fireball at the [[Diagnostic Drone]], who suggests an easier method would be to simply transplant Megatron's [[spark]] to a new body. Megatron is not keen on leaving his spark unprotected, so the Drone suggests another course of action: the [[Maximal]] [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] seems to have scanned an organic body, so if they could capture him, study the process and reverse it... Megatron orders his [[Vehicon general]]s to take the Diagnostic Drone to the catacombs and capture Nightscream.

[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] and [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] are trying to help Nightscream unlock his memories. To their surprise, they find that the young Maximal has a built in [[DNA scanner]], to which he responds that everyone junked the [[stasis pod]]s in favour of inbuilt scanners in the [[Quantum Cycle Upgrade]]. After Rattrap mentions they'd been off-planet fighting the [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]], he resoundingly mocks them for losing said wars and is reminded that the Maximals lost friends during it. As Optimus stresses the importance of finding out where Nightscream scanned organic [[DNA]] on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], Rattrap drops a seed from the tree they found earlier into his hand. [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] reminds Primal of what happened last time they ate fruit from that tree, but Optimus merely says that the seed is what the Oracle was referring to when it mentioned "the seeds of the future".

[[Image:Survivor Nightscream sonic.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Do re MEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE]]
The Maximals return to the chamber where they originally found the tree, only to discover it's been sealed off. Nightscream begins to use his sonic attack to break through. Unfortunately the soundwaves gain the attention of the Diagnostic Drone, and the [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]] interrupt Nightscream before the barrier is breached. [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] buries Optimus beneath some rubble, while [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] immobilises [[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] in a web and then confronts Thrust. The pair freeze, waiting to see who will make the first move, until a recovered Jetstorm fires on Blackarachnia. The other three Maximals are reluctantly fighting [[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]] with the knowledge he contains [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]]'s spark, until he blasts them all. The Maximals recover to find that Nightscream is gone.

Elsewhere in the catacombs, their friend is being spirited away by the Vehicons. The Diagnostic Drone observes that the [[CR chamber|regeneration chamber]] they've put Nightscream in doesn't seem to be doing anything for him. The chamber is opened, and the young Maximal transforms, much to the fascination of the Drone who says that his [[technorganic]] body is repairing itself and they will be able to use the same process to purge Megatron's beast form. The Drone closes itself in the regeneration chamber with Nightscream, who promises to tell the secret of his ability—and then unleashes a sonic attack at point blank range. Thrust and Jetstorm pursue the boy while Tankor digs out the Diagnostic Drone. Nightscream manages to lose the two Vehicons with some fancy flying.

[[Image:Survivor Diagnostic Drone junk.jpg|left|200px|thumb|He always wanted to get into video games, but Tetris may have been a bad idea.]]
Tankor digs out the Drone, but hides it under some rubble as the other four Maximals pass, searching for their friend. He again pulls out the Diagnostic Drone, who is surprised at Tankor's change of personality. Tankor explains that his time as both a Maximal and Vehicon has given him a greater perspective and though Megatron's plan has merit, it has one problem—Megatron himself. Tankor intends to personally become ruler of Cybertron. The Diagnostic Drone says it's programmed to serve only Megatron, and so Tankor begins the reprogramming.

Meanwhile, Nightscream has reached a dead end with Jetstorm and Thrust once again closing in behind him. He uses his sonic attack to escape through a tunnel, and the two Vehicons are cut off by the other four Maximals. Optimus pursues Nightscream while Rattrap, Cheetor and Blackarachnia fight the Vehicons, swiftly defeating them. Blackarachnia hesitates in slagging Thrust, which give the Vehicons ample recovery time to take off after Optimus and Nightscream.

Tankor completes his reprogramming job and gives his new loyal servant the task of tracking down a particular energy signature.

[[Image:Survivor Nightscream batskeleton.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"My parents are DEEEAAAAD!"]]
Elsewhere, Nightscream finds himself in a cave staring at the skeleton of a bat. Optimus arrives as the young Maximal realises that the fossil was picked up by his DNA scanners, allowing him to reformat into his bat mode and survive Megatron's purge. While he's still wrought over why he survived and no one else, Jetstorm and Thrust pop up in time to be blasted by his sonic cry. The blast reveals more bones, and Optimus realises that Cybertron once had organic life. Nightscream angsts that if he hadn't been so self-absorbed, perhaps he could have saved other Transformers. Optimus commiserates and they plant the seed Rattrap found.

Back at the Citadel, the Diagnostic Drone can give no excuse for yet another failed purge and suggests the problem is Megatron himself. After the Drone is dismissed, it contacts Tankor to report. Tankor thanks the Drone for the accurate information on the energy signature—he has found the Oracle.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s
|c1=
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (6)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (7)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (8)
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (9)
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (10)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]]s
|c2=
*[[Diagnostic Drone]] (1)
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (2)
*[[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] (3)
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (4)
*[[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]]/[[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]] (5)

|c4=
*[[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]] (11)

}}
==Quotes==
"I'm tired of suffering your "temporary setbacks"! Every moment I waste on your ineffectual treatment, the organics grow stronger!!!"
:-'''Megatron''' vents his rage at the Diagnostic Drone.

"You tend to be a little out of the loop when you're on a distant planet fightin' the Beast Wars." 
"And you did a fine job winning it. Oh, I forgot, you fumbled the ball at the very last nano-click."
:—'''Rattrap''' name-checks the previous show and '''Nightscream''' demonstrates why he has few fans.

"Fascinating. His robot mode is implementing biologically-enhanced nanosurgical capabilities. It seems to accelerate the beast mode's natural healing abilities."
:—'''Diagnostic Drone''' makes with the technobabble.

"Tankor, protect me! That's an order." 
"I think it's time we come to an understanding about who gives the orders." 
"You?!" 
"Oh, I'm sorry. Were you happier when my vocabulary was limited to "TANKOR SMASH"? Poetic, perhaps, yet somehow it isn't me anymore."
:—'''Diagnostic Drone''' is surprised at the latest revelation that '''Tankor''' is Rhinox.

"Step into my parlour, said the spider to the flyboy." 
"Missed me! Missed me! Now you gotta kiss me!"
:—'''Blackarachnia''' and '''Jetstorm''' have somewhat unique fight banter.

"They deserved to live as much as me, more even! Why did ''I'' get to live? WHY?" 
"Beats me, kid, but I'll be happy to put you out of your misery!"
:—'''Nightscream''' asks the question many of us wonder about him while '''Jetstorm''' offers a practical solution.

"According to my data, failure to purge your DNA contamination may actually stem from your own subconscious desire to maintain your beast mode."
:—'''Diagnostic Drone''' to Megatron.

==Notes==
* Rhinox is notably more malevolent-sounding and sadistic from this episode on. (Check out that sinister "''me''..." when he's saying he should be in charge!) While Bob Skir's stated intent was that Rhinox had decided Megatron's cause was right after weighing up the evidence, the dialogue in these episodes makes it sound like he's gone mad and power-hungry.
*How ''do'' you get [[Beast Wars (Part 1)|DNA from a fossil]] anyway?

===Animation and technical errors===
* After Jetstorm transforms while speeding towards the cornered Nightscream, bits of his robot-mode remain poking through the underside of his jet mode.

===Continuity errors===
*When chasing after the escaped Nightscream, [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] uses the transformation code "accelerate", instead of his usual "overdrive".
*Cheetor's telling Blackarachnia to take Thrust out is odd considering they've already established the Vehicons contain Maximal sparks (though considering how well it went last time they freed one...)

===Transformers references===
*When Nightscream chastises the [[Maximal]]s for losing the Beast Wars, [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] angrily replies "You watch your mouth junior, I lost friends in that war." This is most likely a reference to [[Dinobot (BW)|Dinobot]], and to lesser degrees [[Depth Charge (BW)|Depth Charge]], [[Tigatron]] and [[Airazor (BW)|Airazor]], as well as [[Tigerhawk]], the combined form of the latter two.
*When the Diagnostic Drone suggests the transfer of Megatron's spark, in one of the monitor behind him is shown the schematics of the Grand Mal.

===Real-world references===
*When [[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] ambushes the Maximals, he taunts them by sneering "Honey, I'm home!" This is a repeating line from the '50s sitcom ''I Love Lucy''.
*When Nightscream escapes he remarks about how he can't return to the others because he'll lead the Vehicons right to them. He then laments about how he'll be "alone again, naturally," a line from the song of the same name by Gilbert O'Sullivan.
*The images when Rhinox describes Megatron's scheme are very Nazi-esque.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Survivant'''" ("Survivor")

:*''Title:'' "'''Survivre'''" (Canada, "Survive")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Kikai no Harawa ta'''" (機械のはらわた, "The Machine's Innards")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[December 5]], [[2004]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Sobreviviente'''" ("Survivor")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2005 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 3 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume Two ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume Two — Revelations (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season One (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 1 (Sony) — French audio only.

[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

Revelations Part III: Apocalypse

2014-11-03T09:12:46Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=9
|title="Revelations Part III: Apocalypse"
|image=Revelations3 Rhinox vision.jpg
|caption="OH GOD I'M IN WALES"
|airdate=[[November 13]], 1999
|written by=[[Steven Melching]]
|directed by=[[George Samilski]]
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuty=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''Nightscream pursues Jetstorm, who has captured Blackarachnia's spark; meanwhile, Optimus and Rhinox have a heart to heart.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:Jetstorm with extractor.jpg|left|200px|thumb|He's a spark-breaker, he's a spark-taker...]]
[[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] stands over [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]]'s body, holding her [[spark]], as [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] looks on in anguish. Gloating, the [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]] transforms and flies off with the spark, and Nightscream sets off in pursuit. Watching them go, [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] then eyes Blackarachnia's body.

Meanwhile, [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] is skeptical of [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]]'s theory that [[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]] is [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]], due to the vast difference in intellect. The pair resolve to try to reach Rhinox's consciousness.

Below ground, [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] tells the [[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]] that he doesn't understand the visions he's had... and is promptly granted another vision. Walking in a field, he sees plants with his fellow [[Maximal]]s' faces on them, and is attacked by metal tentacles. The tentacles turn the plants to metal, and Optimus Primal's friends cry that he has failed them.

[[Image:Revelations3 Tankor cutting.jpg|right|200px|thumb|]]
Tankor regains consciousness and Cheetor cautiously inquires whether Rhinox is in control. Although for a moment it seems as though Tankor's Maximal side is reasserting itself, he writhes in pain and reverts to his "TANKOR DESTROY!" persona. Cheetor is tossed aside, and Tankor advances on Rattrap, firing. After a brief attempt to reason with the [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]], Rattrap jumps on some large pipes, releasing them from their bonds so that they fall on Tankor. He recovers quickly, and the two Maximals turn to flee. Unfortunately they're cut off by oncoming tank drones, and race down a narrow gap between the stacked containers. Tankor begins smashing the containers aside, so the pair run up one of the arched structures they've found. On reaching the arch, Tankor merely begins cutting into the side of it, and the Maximals look at each other in alarm. It doesn't take long for Tankor to cut through enough to push the arch over, and Rattrap and Cheetor are forced to jump to the next arch which comes under attack from tank drones.

Nightscream snatches Blackarachnia's spark back from Jetstorm (who seems to have stopped to have a chat with it). The enraged Vehicon chases him but clips a freeway and slams into the side of a building. Recovering quickly, Jetstorm continues the pursuit and follows Nightscream until the Maximal drops an elevator on him.

[[Image:Revelations3 Nightscream spark.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Bad touch: pending.]]
Thrust carries Blackarachnia's lifeless body through the city until he's intercepted by Nightscream. The pair fight until Nightscream is able to disable Thrust by draining his Energon. Floating in a white void, Blackarachnia encounters Optimus and he tells her that her spark must have left her body. Elsewhere, Nightscream liberates Blackarachnia's spark from its container and tries to force it back into her body. In the void, she panics and flees from Optimus, just as her spark does from Nightscream. Optimus is able to calm her, and her spark returns to her body. Nightscream suggests they find the others, as he has a feeling they'll need help.

Indeed, Tankor has just knocked over one of the arches in the row, and the rest of them begin to fall like dominoes. Rattrap and Cheetor fall from the final arch, and Cheetor finds himself trapped under some containers with Tankor towering over him. He pleads with the Vehicon to remember who he is and, after a great mental struggle, Tankor unleashes a cry which Optimus hears on his higher plane. Optimus marches through the field of his vision, pushing through the plants until he comes face-to-face with... Rhinox. Optimus talks with his old friend, who it seems sides with [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]], favoring technology over organic nature. Optimus is jerked back to reality with a cry of "NO!"

[[Image:Revelations3 Tankor maximals.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"''Damn it'' Tankor, ''The Phantom Menace'' was ''over a decade ago!''" "It still ''hurts'', Cheetor, ''alright''?!"]]
Blackarachnia pulls Cheetor out of the way of Tankor's descending fist, and Nightscream takes out a row of tank drones. Cheetor warns Blackarachnia not to harm Tankor, surprising her with the information that he's Rhinox. She's tossed aside by the Vehicon, disturbing a pile of containers and revealing Rattrap's hiding place. The four Maximals offer Tankor their help, but he replies in Rhinox's voice that he doesn't ''need'' their help. He reveals that he's been conscious but unable to do anything, suppressed by the Tankor personality the whole time. To their alarm, he also announces that Megatron is Cybertron's only hope for technological perfection. The Maximals wonder if Rhinox's spark has been corrupted, and attack their friend, pinning him to the ground. Cheetor tells Rattrap to use his tail interface to reprogram Rhinox, but they're interrupted by Optimus who says Rhinox has made his choice and they have to respect that. The Maximals sadly watch Rhinox leave.

Back at base, the Maximals mourn over their lost friend, and Optimus gives a speech about how the Matrix sent them to prehistoric Earth for a reason—to restore nature to Cybertron.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s|c1=
* [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (1)
* [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (2)
* [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (5)
* [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (7)
* [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (9)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]]|c2=
* [[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] (3)
* [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (4)
* [[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]]/[[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]] (6)
* [[Tank Drone]]s (8)
}}

==Quotes==
"Lookee here, ma! I caught me a lightning bug! Yeeha!"
:—Are we sure '''Jetstorm''' isn't [[Quickstrike (BW)|Quickstrike]]?

"Gee, good thing Tankor turned out to be a friend. Imagine if he was recycled from a ''Predacon''."
:—'''Rattrap''' getting tetchy at how the plan's going.

"C sharp... or B flat, music to my ears."
:—'''Nightscream''', as Jetstorm is flattened.

"Rattrap! Use your tail interface...if Rhinox won't change his mind, we'll change it for him!"
:—'''Cheetor''', ironically issuing a command that Megatron would have given.

"Megatron wants this planet to run harmoniously, but harmony without free will isn't harmony at all."
:—'''Optimus''' about to break out into a speech.

"Goodbye, Optimus. When we meet again, it will not be as allies."
:—'''Rhinox''''s parting words to Optimus.

"Was this planet ever natural to begin with?"
:—A humble question from '''Cheetor'''. To this day, the fandom [[Primus|is still]] [[Cybertron (planet)|divided]] over the answer.

==Notes==
===Transformers references===
* Cheetor's line "I am seriously missing my old turbo-jets right now," is a reference to his old [[Transmetal]] capability in ''Beast Wars''.
* Rattrap's remark about Predacons is the only time that faction's name is spoken in the entire series.

===Real-world references===
* After destroying several Tank Drones, Nightscream refers to them as "[[Tonka]] toys".

===Trivia===
*Rattrap is relieved Tankor hadn't been built with a Predacon spark—but this actually has no bearing on the strength of the new personalities imposed by Megatron's shell program. Thrust had a Predacon spark and was often portrayed as noble in his own way, and open to at least listening to Maximals, whereas Jetstorm—whose spark was Maximal—was constantly cruel, treacherous, and menacing.
*Skir's original intention was that Rhinox had "seen all sides of the argument, and chose to go more in Megatron's direction" in ''Beast Machines'', and after a quiet chat he and Optimus part company. As Richard Newman played that scene with growling and shouting, Rhinox instead sounded not quite in his right mind after his experiences. (That said, animating Rhinox growing into a towering and menacing Tankor while backlit by storm clouds and lightning didn't quite say "quiet chat", either). [http://web.archive.org/web/20071202095033/http://bigbot.com/beast-machines-transformers-bob-skir/Beast-Machines-FAQ/Fri_03_Dec_1999.html]

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Révélation, Partie III'''" ("Revelation, Part III")

:*''Title:'' '''Révélations 3''' (Canada, "Revelations 3")

'''Japanese
:*''Title:'' "'''Hoshi no Shimei'''" (星の使命, "Message from the Stars")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[December 4]], [[2004]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Revelaciones, Tercera Parte: Apocalipsis'''" ("Revelations, Third Part: Apocalypse")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2005 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 3 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume Two ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume Two — Revelations (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season One (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 1 (Sony) — French audio only.

{{DEFAULTSORT:Revelations part 3}}
[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

Revelations Part II: Descent

2014-11-03T09:12:26Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=8
|title="Revelations Part II: Descent"
|image=Revelations2 Rattrap accesses Tankor.jpg
|caption=His crime is curiosity.
|airdate=[[November 6]], 1999
|written by=[[Marv Wolfman]]
|directed by=[[William Lau]]
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuty=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''Cheetor and Rattrap make a surprising discovery about their missing memories and the identity of Tankor.'''

==Synopsis==
A gazelle-like beast watches [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] swing from tree to tree in a mysterious forest, following a trail of floating [[spark]]s towards their nexus, the [[Allspark]]. Suddenly, the Allspark vanishes, and Primal is suddenly restrained by vines. As he watches, the placid forest disappears, the trees and grass replaced by buildings and steel. Before him, the face of Megatron laughs triumphantly as the organic vines become technological.

[[Image:Revelations2 Optimus struggle.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Getting Optimus to take a bath was becoming increasingly difficult.]]
Optimus Primal awakes, shaken. The dream is revealed to be an [[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]]-induced vision. [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] explains that he was worried about his leader, as Primal was yelling and fearful. Primal rebukes him, saying that they should leave him alone no matter how worried they are. With Primal back in the Oracle, Cheetor takes over. Explaining to the Maximals that the Sparks of the [[Vehicon general]]s are subverted Maximal sparks, he tells them that they must extract the sparks somehow and [[Reformatting|reformat]] them into other technorganic Maximals to help them accomplish their goal (whatever that may be).

Cheetor suggests going after [[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]] first, as he is slower then the others (in both speed and mentality). [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] suggests going after Thrust (for [[Silverbolt (BW)|obvious reasons]]). However, she is the minority, so Tankor wins out. Cheetor splits them into two groups: [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] and [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] will distract [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] and [[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]], while he and [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] will (hopefully) extract Tankor's spark and place it in a new body.

The three generals are entrenched at a spaceport, supervising work. Tankor is coordinating the loading of a spacecraft, Jetstorm supervises the defense from the sky, and Thrust... is doing something important too. Probably.

[[Image:Revelations2 Blackarachnia Thrust.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"I'll be dying in your arms tonight!"]]
Nightscream distracts the two latter generals by destroying a building, prompting Jetstorm to give chase to the bat. Nightscream manages to escape and drains the [[energon]] from Jetstorm's body, weakening the [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]]. Blackarachnia tries to talk to Thrust about his past identity, and he begins to experience flashbacks of prehistoric [[Earth]], seeing Optimus Primal, Rhinox, Cheetor, and Blackarachnia (all in their final incarnations) looking at him.

At the docks, Rattrap distracts Tankor by throwing a bomb at him, irritating him enough to give chase. Cheetor transforms to robot mode and leaps from Drone to Drone as Tankor fires at him. Rattrap interfaces with a crane and knocks Tankor away into some crates. Rattrap then attempts to interface with his mind. After some effort he finally manages to access Tankor's past memories and break his own amnesia.

[[Image:Revelations2 Rattrap Cheetor Tankor.jpg|left|200px|thumb|"Tankor... is... running on Windows 98."]]
Rattrap discovers that Megatron broke free of the Shuttle in transwarp space, where he was sucked away, and remarks that "that was the last of him". Eventually, the team returned to Cybertron and was immediately shot down by orbiting satellites.

[[Image:Revelation2 optimus cheetor running.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"We must get our Transformer 4 film tickets, Cheetor Run!!!"]]
Rattrap takes a breather from watching these records and wonders why they all seem to be from his point of view. He then plugs back into Tankor's brain. He sees Cheetor (in his [[Transmetal|Transmetal 2]] form) and Primal (in "Optimal" configuration) escaping from tank drones. But the drones fire canisters that explode and release a [[Transformation virus|green gas]] that envelops the Maximals.

Rattrap watches the Transmetals revert to their pre-Transmetal beast modes, while Silverbolt remains in the same form but lies on the ground helplessly. Stranger, though, is that Rattrap sees ''himself'' reverting as well. He wonders why this is, if these are his own memories. But then he sees his reflection in an approaching tank drone, and the mirrored face is [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]]'s. Which means that Tankor is Rhinox!

[[Image:Revelations2 Blackarachnia spark.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Blackarachnia is attacked by the green floating ball from Heavy Metal.]]
As Thrust and Blackarachnia talk, Jetstorm (now strengthened) arrives, buries Nightscream under fallen rubble, and accuses Thrust of fraternizing with the "enemy". Thrust denies this, and Jetstorm puts pressure on him to remove Blackarachnia's spark. Grudgingly, Thrust shoots her, but is tackled by Nightscream before he gets a chance to extract her spark. Thrust and Nightscream fight, eventually detonating a nearby tank, causing Nightscream to become pinned under some bars. As the Maximal watches helplessly, Jetstorm extracts Blackarachnia's spark.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s|c1=
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (1)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (2)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (3)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (4)
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (5)
*[[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] (11)
*[[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]] (12)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]]|c2=
*[[Tank Drone]]s (6)
*[[Aero Drone]]s (7)
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (8)
*[[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] (9)
*[[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]] (10)
}}

==Quotes==
"If I'm ever to get to the heart of our quest, then it is vital that you leave me alone, no matter what you hear."
:—'''Optimus''' should at least give them a safe word.

"As of this moment, we are going on the offensive." 
"And who are we offending today?"
:—'''Cheetor''' and '''Blackarachnia'''

"Nice try! Someone need his targeting system recalibrated? Ha ha!"
:—'''Cheetor''', still a kid at heart, even as a leader.

"And it's a hard fly to left field. He's going, going...GONE!"
:—'''Cheetor''', again proving that he's a kid at heart.

"And I thought I got the ''easy'' job."
:—'''Rattrap''', riding on Tankor's back.

"These blasts! Gah! They're ''devolving'' us!"
:—'''Cheetor''', mastering the obvious.

==Notes==
* Technically, this would be the first appearance of Rhinox since his disappearance in ''Beast Machines'', albeit from Tankor's unlocked memories.
* While the Maximals ponder which Vehicon to attempt to free first, their images appear on a screen along with [[Cybertronix]] text saying "we the unwilling are led by the unknowing to do the impossible for the ungrateful", which is a quote from [[:wikipedia:Mother Teresa|Mother Teresa]].
* This episode marks the first time Tankor commands the Tank Drones.

===Animation and technical errors===
*When grappling with Optimus after his dream, Cheetor's feet clip into the floor.
*When Thrust shows up during Nightscream and Blackarachnia's distraction, he's misrepresented by one of his drones. (Note the hands. Thrust's are yellow, drones' are purple.)

===Continuity errors===
*We never discover what the [[Tank Drone]]s are loading onto the spacecraft or why. Sure seems to be important, though.
*Although the Maximals' [[Transmetal]] modes seem to be powerful enough to injure and occasionally kill other sentient Cybertronians, and their alternative forms have been shown to be pretty fast, there seems to be no evidence of the Maximals putting up a fight against the Vehicons, nor evidence of them using vehicle or beast modes to escape. Instead, we have the slightly odd sight of Optimal Optimus and Transmetal 2 Cheetor running in robot mode away from the tank drones, rather than using their (much faster and flight-capable) alt-modes.
*Not so much an error, but certainly an ''ambiguity'', is that the nature of the green gas and its relationship to the [[Transformation virus|virus]] are unclear at best. Those who were "devolved" (probably better put as "de-Transmetallized") were also spared the immediate paralytic effect of the virus. But Silverbolt was one of the fully-paralyzed victims, despite the fact that he ''did'' have Transmetal qualities (as evidenced by his immunity to the [[Metal Hunter]]'s weapon). Perhaps, as a [[Fuzor]] with no previous body upgrades, he simply wasn't Transmetal ''enough'' to resist the virus. Ultimately, there are no clear answers.
*Along similar lines, Optimus Primal is "devolved" back into his season 1 body. However, that body blew up in space fighting the [[Planet Buster]]. His "Optimal Optimus" form evolved from his Transmetal body.
*One final comment: The virus seems to act as if the first bodies we see the Maximals using in ''[[Beast Wars: Transformers (cartoon)|Beast Wars]]'' are their original bodies. However, the Axalon crew had different robot modes before they crashed on Earth. Why did the gas take them back to the bodies they had in season 1 of ''Beast Wars'', but no further?
*Blackarachnia isn't seen escaping the Vehicons, though she is briefly seen aboard the shuttle. It is likely that she immediately fled underground after the Maximals run away (as indicated by [[The Reformatting|the first episode]]), but not before being hit by the virus.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Révélation, Partie II'''" ("Revelation, Part II")

:*''Title:'' "'''Révélations 2'''" (Canada, "Revelations 2")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Tomo no Kioku'''" (友の記憶, "The Memory of a Friend")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[November 28]], [[2004]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Revelaciones, Segunda Parte: Ascendencia'''" ("Revelations, Second Part: Descent")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2004 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 2 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume Two ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume Two — Revelations (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season One (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 1 (Sony) — French audio only.

{{DEFAULTSORT:Revelations part 2}}
[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

Revelations Part I: Discovery

2014-11-03T09:12:10Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=7
|title="Revelations Part I: Discovery"
|image=Revelations1 Blackarachnia Thrust extractor.jpg
|caption=Megatron's experimental automatic beauty treatment machine was not a success.
|airdate=[[October 30]], 1999
|written by=[[Brynne Chandler Reaves]]
|directed by=[[James Taylor]]
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuity=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}

'''The Maximals discover what happened to the inhabitants of Cybertron, and Blackarachnia learns more about the Vehicon general, Thrust.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:Revelations1 Rattrap coolant.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Water wings — another thing the Oracle forgot to give Rattrap.]]
The Maximals find themselves cornered by [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] and his [[Motorcycle Drone]]s, when [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] floods the tunnels with coolant to get rid of them. After [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] narrowly avoids getting swept away, they make their way to the surface, where they find the bodies of hundreds of Cybertronians in some sort of factory. Examining the remains, Rattrap declares that their [[spark]]s weren't extinguished; they were removed altogether. [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] wonders if the same thing happened to [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]], but is interrupted when [[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] attacks with his [[Aero Drone]]s. The Maximals choose to stand and fight, rather than flee again, partly because they're sick of running, but also partly because there's a [[Tankor (BM)|giant killer tank]] in their way.

During the ensuing battle, Thrust tails Blackarachnia, but rather than attack her, he saves her from a Sonic Attack Jet's missiles—missiles which then go on to knock over a nearby tower. Blackarachnia and Thrust are seemingly buried underneath it. As the other Maximals recover from the crash, they realize that the coolant they used to flood the tunnels was meant to cool the factory they're fighting in now, and without it, the facility will explode in a few minutes. As Optimus rushes to free Blackarachnia, Cheetor wonders what "big bot" has gotten them into, echoing an earlier sentiment from [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]].

[[Image:Revelations1 Blackarachnia Thrust caught.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"But I only asked to get my nails done!"]]
Meanwhile, Blackarachnia awakens, and spies the shadow of Silverbolt approaching her, only to realize it's being cast by Thrust, who saved her once again. When she asks why, he only replies "my mistake", and that it won't happen again. And then it ''does'' happen again, as he knocks her out of the way of an approaching supply train. This time, he begins flashing back to having his spark extracted, and then to memories of Blackarachnia during the Beast Wars. The two venture further into the factory together, and run across a giant [[spark extractor]], which promptly seizes them both and tries to, well, extract their sparks. Thrust saves Blackarachnia, but his own spark is taken, as Blackarachnia begins to suspect that he is, in fact, Silverbolt. She shuts down the machine, releasing both Thrust and the spark. Blackarachnia realizes that this place is where [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] stole the sparks of all Cybertronians.

[[Image:Revelations1 Blackarachnia Thrust rescue.jpg|left|200px|thumb|"It was this big! I swear!"]]
Outside, the Maximals deal with their antagonists one at a time and head to get Blackarachnia, as Nightscream and Cheetor continue arguing about Optimus. When they find her, she has restored Thrust's spark and attempted to get him to remember the time before. He promptly flees, and Optimus, seeing all the bodies, mourns his inability to stop Megatron. Cheetor, seeing they are out of time, ''orders'' Optimus to leave. The factory explodes behind them as they flee. After Cheetor declares he's taking command back from Optimus, much to the latter's surprise, Blackarachnia tells them that Thrust's spark once belonged to a Maximal. Realizing that Jetstorm and Tankor must be the same way, the Maximals resolve not to destroy the [[Vehicon general]]s, but to bring them back to the right side.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s|c1=
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (1)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (2)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (3)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (6)
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (7)
*[[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] (11)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]]|c2=
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (4)
*[[Motorcycle Drone]]s (5)
*[[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] (8)
*[[Aero Drone]]s (9)
*[[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]] (10)
}}
==Quotes==
"Aw man, look at me. This bod' is useless." 
"Ah, don't underestimate it, Rattrap; it's ugly too."
:—'''Rattrap''' and '''Blackarachnia'''.

"Tankor slag Bird Bot!" 
"Hello, I'm a BAT!"
:—'''Tankor''', confusing Nightscream for another type of flying creature

"Well well well, all I need's a spider and I've got the whole set! Gotta catch 'em all!"
:—'''Jetstorm''', confusing one franchise for another

"Saving me AGAIN? What is your defect? 
"This place.." [''bad flashbacks''] "You..." [''Blackarachnia flashbacks''] "I almost remember."
:—'''Thrust''', just being confusing

==Notes==
===Transformers references===
*The models of several [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] characters seen in the ''[[Beast Wars: Transformers (cartoon)|Beast Wars]]'' episode "[[The Agenda (Part III)]]" appear as corpses including [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] and [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]].
*Thrust recalls memories of Optimus Primal, Cheetor, Rhinox and Blackarachnia's ''Beast Wars'' forms.

===Real-world references===
*At one point, Jetstorm says, "[[Pokeformers|Gotta catch 'em all!]]"—the catchphrase of the competing ''[[Wikipedia:Pokémon|Pokémon]]'' franchise.
*Thrust refers to Blackarachnia's 'positronic brain', a reference to the works of Isaac Asimov.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Révélation, Partie I'''" ("Revelation, Part I")

:*''Title:'' "'''Révélations 1'''" (Canada, "Revelations 1")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Ai no Chikara'''" (愛の力, "The Power of Love")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[November 27]], [[2004]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Revelaciones, Primera Parte: Descubrimiento'''" ("Revelations, First Part: Discovery")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2004 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 2 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume Two ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume Two — Revelations (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season One (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 1 (Sony) — French audio only.

{{DEFAULTSORT:Revelations Part 1: Discovery}}
[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

The Weak Component

2014-11-03T09:11:56Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=6
|image=Weak component pretty.jpg
|caption=<div style="text-align:right;padding-right:2em;">''Am I my enemy's hero?''</div>
|title="The Weak Component"
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|airdate=[[October 23]], 1999
|written by=[[Rodney Gibbs]]
|directed by=[[Andrew Currie]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuity=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''Frustrated by his inability to transform and ashamed of his uselessness, Rattrap makes a deal with the devil.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]], still exhausted after [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]]'s recent reformatting, awakens from a dream and is informed by [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] that [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] is on a recon mission with [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] and Nightscream.

[[Image:Weak Component Rattrap computer.jpg|left|200px|thumb|"Wonder if there's anything new at Transformers Wiki. What the— Who wrote that about me?! CHOPPERFACE!"]]
At a manufacturing facility, Rattrap, Nightscream and Cheetor are being attacked by [[Aero Drone]]s and [[Tank Drone]]s. Since Rattrap is still unable to transform, Cheetor orders him to go and download the data from the computers. As [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] observes this, a [[Diagnostic Drone]] warns him that the DNA purging process is still in its experimental stage. But Megatron, eager to be rid of his hated beast mode, wishes to proceed before the Maximals can discover any more "mongrel beasts".

During the fight, Nightscream uses his sonic powers and observes that if they attack the [[Vehicon general]]s, the associated Drones stop operating. Cheetor and Nightscream plan to ambush [[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]] to test the theory.

Unfortunately, Rattrap observes the ensuing entrapment setup from his computer, unaware of the plan, thinking his friends in actual danger. Feeling genuine concern for his friends, he finally transforms successfully, and being eager to help, swings into action as Nightscream and Cheetor are attempting to disable Tankor and [[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]]. Unfortunately, his interference ends up spoiling the ambush, and causes the factory's machinery to start operating and building more Tank Drones at a faster and faster rate. Adding insult to injury, Rattrap realises, much to his disgust, that his new robot form is completely unarmed, so he can't even help in the ensuing battle!

[[Image:Weak Component Cheetor carrying Rattrap.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"Every time we go to the bar, stuff blows up and I end up carrying you home!"]]
As the new Tank Drones run wild, Megatron takes control. Rattrap attempts to stop the manufacture of the Drones by linking himself into the main computer, only to become a sitting target for Megatron's Aero Drones. The resulting feedback travels along the power cables and causes a system failure, the total destruction of the manufacturing plant, and a power cut for the whole sector.

On their way back to their base, Cheetor and Nightscream harshly reprimand Rattrap for not following orders. Rattrap later complains to a sleeping Optimus Primal about his robot mode, when the others appear. Cheetor knocks Rattrap to the ground, ordering him to transform to beast mode; this jolt to Rattrap's system causes him to realise Megatron is weak as he replays vital stats he downloaded earlier. However, Cheetor brushes off his suggestions of an attack on their weakened enemy.

Rattrap overhears Blackarachnia, Cheetor and Nightscream discussing what to do with him and how he is such a burden with his useless robot mode. Infuriated, he leaves the base alone.

[[Image:Weak Component Rattrap mech.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Rattrap prepares to face the Queen Alien.]]
Megatron is being told the extent of the damage caused by the feedback earlier, when Rattrap saunters into his citadel, saying he wants "noisemakers". After a bit of back and forth, Megatron and Rattrap work out a deal wherein Rattrap will defend Megatron for one night when he is at his weakest. If anything happens to Megatron, Rattrap forfeits his new weaponry.

[[Image:Rattrap-bm-withmegatron.jpg|right|200px|thumb|My shoulder angel!]]
Unexpectedly, Cheetor, Nightscream and Blackarachnia arrive to rescue Rattrap, forcing Rattrap to honour his word with Megatron—and he does so, firing on his friends as they advance. While this is happening, Megatron returns to full strength and begins rebooting his control of [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. The Maximals and Rattrap are at an impasse when Optimus Primal arrives, still exhausted, and asks Rattrap to look inside himself and re-evaluate what he's doing. Optimus Primal tells him that Rattrap is stronger than any of them realize.

Megatron orders Rattrap to attack Optimus Primal, but Rattrap reiterates the terms of the deal: The sun is rising, the solar cycle is over, and Rattrap has kept his end of the bargain. Impressed with Rattrap's handling of the situation, Megatron upholds his word and lets the Maximals walk away. Megatron vows to his Diagnostic Drone that they shall liberate the Maximals' [[spark]]s another day.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s
|c1=
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (2)
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (3)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (6)
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (8)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (9)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]]s
|c2=
*[[Aero Drone]]s (1)
*[[Tank Drone]]s (4)
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (5)
*[[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]] (7)
*[[Diagnostic Drone]] (10)
*[[Motorcycle Drone]]s (11)
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (12)
*[[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] (13)
}}

==Quotes==
"Ah, did somebody forget to load this robot mode with weapons?"
:—'''Rattrap''' discovers that he is suddenly a pacifist.

"Piece of advice: Never trust a rat."
:—'''Rattrap''' turns Megatron's own weapons on him.

"Short 'em out now! Sort 'em out later!"
:—'''Blackarachnia''' shoots first.

'''Megatron''': "See how quickly your friends turn on you? They promised you great power, but only I delivered it. They abandoned you, Rattrap. They did worse than hate you. They pitied you." 
'''Rattrap''': "Ya still think ya gotta cover for me?" [''fires on Cheetor, Blackarachnia and Nightscream''] "Ya still wanna cut me loose?! You never believed in me, ever!" 
'''Optimus Primal''': [''enters''] "I believed in you. What do you mean by firing at your friends?" 
'''Megatron''': "He's right. Optimus is the one you want. He's the one who lied to you; who kept making promises he never intended to keep. He made you weak; defenseless." 
'''Optimus Primal''': "Look inside yourself, Rattrap. You don't need his weapons. You're stronger than you know – stronger than ''any'' of you know."

"You have the makings of a fine Vehicon, ''yes''." 
"Not from where I'm standing. The monkey's right; I am stronger than you know."
:—'''Megatron''' seems keen for '''Rattrap''' to join his side.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
* When Rattrap says, "Gangway! Rat crossing!" and the Vehicons turn towards the camera, Jetstorm's mouth angles upwards, over his nose.
* When Megatron appears via floating viewscreens to tell Rattrap that the Maximals "did worse than hate you — they pitied you!", his lips stop moving before he stops speaking.
* In the same scene, while Megatron is speaking you can hear David Kaye's unaltered voice due to the audio engineers forgetting to apply the downtuning effect.

===Continuity errors===
*When Cheetor, Blackarachnia and Nightscream are discussing Rattrap's robot mode, Nightscream is in the fully organic bat mode he had when he first appeared in "[[Forbidden Fruit]]".
* This episode was the source of some controversy, as Rattrap was arguably depicted as being a "traitor" to the Maximals, something many fans claimed was completely against the grain of his character (having been one of the most distrustful and paranoid Maximals in the previous show). Fans also complained about Megatron's behavior at the end. Whereas [[Nemesis Part 2|before]], he would have crushed a [[Dinobot II|subordinate]] for merely mentioning "the h-word", here he makes a huge point of displaying honor when he keeps his word to Rattrap at the end of the episode, with no ulterior motive. In fact, either side could have potentially won the war right there, but the two characters with the least scruples suddenly became interested in fair play for no reason (other than to keep the series from ending, obviously).

===Real-world references===
* When the weakened Megatron sees Rattrap in his chamber, he remarks: "Ah, so this is the way the world ends. Not with a bang, but with a simpering...rodent." This is a paraphrased quote from the poem "[[wikipedia:The Hollow Men|The Hollow Men]]" by T.S. Eliot.

===Trivia===
* Blackarachnia calling Rattrap a traitor is, quite frankly, the [[Optimal Situation|pot]] calling the kettle [[Escape (Universe)|BLACK.]]
* During Rattrap's "Not from where I'm standing" line, it seems that Scott McNeil halfway slips into his Silverbolt voice. But when someone [[Waspinator (BW)|voices]] [[Silverbolt (BW)|so]] [[Dinobot (BW)|many]] [[Rattrap (BW)|characters]], these things happen occasionally.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Le Maillon Faible'''" ("The Weakest Link")

:*''Title:'' "'''Le Composant'''" (Canada, "The Component")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Yakusoku no Yoake'''" (約束の夜明け, "The Promised Dawn")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[November 21]], [[2004]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''El Componente Débil'''" ("The Weak Component")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2004 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 2 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume One — Reformatting (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season One (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 1 (Sony) — French audio only.

{{DEFAULTSORT:Weak Component}}
[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

Forbidden Fruit

2014-11-03T09:11:36Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=5
|image=ForbiddenFruit titlescreen.jpg
|caption=Yum! Mangoes!
|title="Forbidden Fruit"
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|airdate=[[October 16]], 1999
|written by=[[Steven Melching]]
|directed by=[[Trenton Carlson]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuity=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''A mysterious bat offers a strange new energy supply, but is it a blessing or a curse?'''

==Synopsis==
In the depths of [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], the two [[technorganic]] warriors, [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] and [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]], mock-spar in their beast modes. They are being tutored by [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] on finding their still point during battle so they can transform. Cheetor objects to the new, "mystical" Optimus and proclaims that he trusts his instincts. All this unfolds while they are watched by an unfamiliar set of bat eyes. Beside the more advanced Blackarachnia and Cheetor, now learning to transform in combat, [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] is still struggling with the basics of his technorganic body and relearning the transformation process—unsuccessfully. Optimus Primal tells Rattrap to have patience and just let it happen. Frustrated with his new body and his liability in combat, the rat lashes out at his leader. According to him, Primal should save his advice for the still-missing [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]] and [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]].

[[Image:Forbidden Fruit Nightscream restrained.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Charlton Heston in a role that will surprise you!]]
Hurt, Optimus Primal leaves Rattrap, while the other two scold the rat for his behavior. Primal notices something up above and catches it. It's a bat, and Primal is shocked at the presence of organic life on Cybertron. Before he can examine it further, he is hit with a sonic pulse, and the creature flaps away. The Maximals pursue the bat in their beast modes through the lower regions of Cybertron before Cheetor transforms and catches the creature. As Cheetor holds the bat down, it speaks! Not only that, it—or rather, he—claims to be a Maximal.

At this point, [[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] and his [[Aero Drone]]s appear and attack the Maximals. Optimus Primal, Cheetor, and Blackarachnia transform into combat modes, while Rattrap, unable to transform and devoid of weapons, hides. After a short clash, the Maximals run away, followed by Jetstorm, who fires a homing mine after the Maximals that the bat deflects with a sonic blast. While the Maximals take cover, the Aero Drones are destroyed by the bat, and Jetstorm vows to return.

[[Image:Bm soundwave.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Mainframe's compensation for [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]'s survival in [[The Transformers: The Movie|the movie]].]]
The creature, being the kind soul he is, leads the Maximals back to his hideout. On the way, Optimus Primal tells him a simplified story of the [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]], their [[reformatting]], and basically all the events leading up to the present. The bat recounts how he found himself trapped in this new form when the first [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon drones]] attacked Cybertron. As other robots were destroyed, he fell down a deep pit and awoke, he says, in his current, organic body. When the Maximals reach their destination, Primal is amazed at the bat's temporary home. It is a towering, organic fruit tree lodged in the metal world of Cybertron.

[[Image:Forbidden Fruit Optimus Primal tree.jpg|left|200px|thumb|I'm not really digging this new remake of ''[[King Kong]]''.]]
The creature explains that he has been eating from the tree since his transformation and offers its fruit to the others. While three of them accept, Cheetor is suspicious of the creature. While Optimus Primal tries the fruit, claiming that it may help their organic components, Cheetor retorts that he only processes [[energon]], period. Cheetor interrogates the bat and demands answers. He wants to know if the newcomer's an agent for [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]], but the bat denies it, as Megatron took everything he loved away from him. Cheetor and the bat go back to the others, but the Maximals seem unresponsive and strange. Primal beats his chest and speaks in a primitive way, while Rattrap and Blackarachnia squabble over the fruit, hissing and nipping one another. The organic fruits have magnified their bestial sides, creating a mental imbalance and the eventual dominance of their animal natures.

Amidst the chaos, Jetstorm reappears and attacks. Cheetor attempts to snap the others out of their beast mentality and get them transform. They ignore him, and he and the bat attempt to take the food away from the increasingly feral Maximals. Cheetor notices the trunk of the organic tree, transforms, and cuts it down, despite the bat's protests. This restores the affected Maximals to their old selves, and they transform and begin the fight. The bat is badly hurt by a blast from Jetstorm, and the only way to save his life is for Optimus Primal to reformat him.

[[Image:Nightscreambm.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Dammit, Mainframe. This is why nobody liked ''Beast Machines''!]]
From his chest, a brilliant white light shoots out. The bat's organic components are mixed with technology, and a technorganic bat emerges. Transforming into his new robot mode, he decimates the ranks of the Aero Drones and drains energon out of Jetstorm until the general crashes. But reformatting the creature has taken its toll on Optimus. He is severely weakened and requests Cheetor to lead while he recovers, as Cheetor was right to destroy the tree; its purely organic nature was creating imbalance in their technorganic bodies. Cheetor eagerly accepts and orders Optimus to be placed on a stretcher.

The new robot decides to travel with them and introduces himself as [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]]. But as they leave, a fruit from the organic tree puts down roots into what appears to be organic soil!
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s
|c1=
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (1)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (2)
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (3)
*[[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]] (4)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (5)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]]s
|c2=
*[[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] (6)
*[[Aero Drone]]s (7)
}}

==Quotes==
"How do you expect to master your new body if you keep turning your back on the Matrix, the source of our very sparks." 
"I hate to disappoint you, Big Bot, but, (grunts) in the heat of the battle, I have to follow my instincts, not ''blind faith''.
:—'''Optimus''' preaches it, but '''Cheetor''' opposes it.

"But that's impossible. How can it ''live'' down here?" 
"Eh, even with wings, a rat's a rat. And we're survivors."
:—'''Blackarachnia''' and '''Rattrap''' spot a bat.

"Well, well, well. Looks like what we have here is an unlawful assembly. I'm afraid I'm going to have to take you boys downtown—''in pieces!''"
:—'''Jetstorm'''

"That's it! I'm through working with a bunch of empty-headed tin-plated-" [''is interrupted by Maximals''] "Ganging up on me? Let's see how tough you are when I bring a whole battalion back!"
:—'''Jetstorm''' suffers from ADD.

"I was trying to remember how to transform. I thought I could learn by watching him. Like that would ever happen." 
"'''Like that would ever happen.'''"
:—'''Nightscream''' doesn't have a high opinion of '''Rattrap''' (or anyone else, actually).

"Sit! Eat! Get strong!"
:—'''Optimus Primal''', nutritional specialist on fruit

Cheetor: (roars)
Nightscream: Whoa, easy! I'm worried about your buddies too. I didn't know the fruit was gonna affect them like that.
Cheetor: (scoffs) Like I'm supposed to believe that. This whole thing stinks of Megatron.
Nightscream: Watch it! Megatron destroyed everything and everyone I ever cared about! Don't you EVER accuse me of--
Cheetor: Shh!
:—'''Cheetor''' and '''Nightscream''' have an argument

==Notes==
===Animation and Technical errors===
* When the Maximals escape into the underground and knock out a large metal cover blocking the tunnel, one of the bolts fallen on the ground clips through the thick metal plate as it drops down on top of it.
* When Nightscream first transforms, his beast mode noticeably separates from him, shrinks, and disappears into the space between his legs. Granted, all of the show's transformations are cheaty and unfeasible, but at least they normally make it look like the characters remain in one piece.

===Transformers references===
* During his flashback, Nightscream is seen hiding behind a Transformer that resembles [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]].

===Real-world references===
* As the Maximals hold down Nightscream, he looks at Optimus and cries, "Get your stinking paws off me, you big, dirty ape!", semi-quoting the famous line from the Charlton Heston film ''Planet of the Apes''.

===Trivia===
* This episode was riffed on in [[MSTF]] fashion at [[BotCon 2000]]. It is one of two ''Beast Machines'' episodes to get the MSTF treatment, the other being "[[A Wolf in the Fold]]".

===Continuity Notes===
*Contrary to Cheetor's line of "We don't eat, period!" throughout the Beast Wars, everyone physically ate quite often in beast mode, from Rattrap munching on garbage, to Tarantulas' eating of live animals, to even other Transformers.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Le Fruit Défendu'''" ("The Forbidden Fruit")

:*''Title:'' "'''Fruit Défendu'''" ("Forbidden Fruit")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Kindan no Kajitsu'''" (禁断の果実, "Forbidden Fruit")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[November 20]], [[2004]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''El Fruto Prohibido'''" ("The Forbidden Fruit")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2004 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 2 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume One — Reformatting (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season One (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 1 (Sony) — French audio only.

[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]
[[Category:MSTF]]

Mercenary Pursuits

2014-11-03T09:11:20Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=4
|image=Mercenary Pursuits Rattrap 2heads.jpg
|caption=So which one is Rosie Greer?
|title="Mercenary Pursuits"
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|airdate=[[October 9]], [[1999]]
|written by=[[Michael Reaves]]
|directed by=[[Raul Sanchez Inglis]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuity=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''The Maximals have a second run-in with the Vehicon generals, and sense the presence of a familiar spark.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] rebukes his [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]] generals for failing to destroy the [[Maximal]]s, refusing to accept failure; he sends them forth with promises of rewards to whichever one captures the Maximals.

[[Image:Mercenary Pursuits Optimus Primal holograms.jpg|left|200px|thumb|]]
[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] contemplates the images of [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]] and [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] and vows to find them. His meditation is interrupted when he senses the presence of a [[spark]]; the team goes out to find it. During the search, [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] beaks into a secure laboratory and discovers the transformation inhibitor virus which Megatron used... and a counter-virus as well, a transformation enhancer. Rattrap swipes the enhancer while [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]]'s back is turned.

[[Image:Mercenary Pursuits Tankor search.jpg|right|200px|thumb|]]
While [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] and [[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] squabble, [[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]] manages to find the Maximals, who elude him by reverting to beast mode... until Rattrap shows up, able to transform at last thanks to the enhancer. This alerts Tankor, of course, who attacks the team. Rattrap finds he's unable to control his transformations, as he continually changes between robot and beast mode, including some odd intermediate forms as well.

Tankor manages to trap the Maximals under a metal dome. Thrust and Jetstorm arrive and fight Tankor for the right to bring in the captive Maximals; the distraction allows the Maximals escape from the dome, but an explosion knocks out all the Transformers present, leaving only the durable Tankor standing.

[[Image:Mercenary Pursuits Megatron Optimus bound.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Now tell me, Maximal... how did you like my poem?]]
At the Citadel, Megatron gloats to the captured Maximals, while Tankor demands his reward: "freedom" via the removal of his spark. Rattrap's continual transformations strain his bonds to the breaking point, freeing him; he quickly releases the others. During the ensuing fight, Megatron loses control and breaks free of his control harness; Primal talks directly to Tankor's spark, compelling him to do what is right. After a moment of confusion, Tankor blasts open the door so the Maximals can escape, and leaves with them.

[[Image:Mercenary Pursuits Tankor maximals.jpg|right|200px|thumb|One of these things is not like the other]]
Restored to his harness, Megatron interfaces directly with Tankor's CPU, deleting the last 20 cycles of his memory. Thus Tankor suddenly attacks the Maximals again as they travel underground; Megatron blocks Primal's attempts to speak to Tankor's Spark again. The Maximals trip up Tankor as he's preparing to fire; the cannon backblast sends him flying upwards through Cybertron's sublevels, only to crash back down to the surface atop a startled Thrust and Jetstorm.

Optimus Primal explains to the other Maximals that he sensed something familiar about Tankor's spark... but then it was gone.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s
|c1=
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (5)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (6)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (7)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (8)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]]
|c2=
*[[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]] (1)
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (2)
*[[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] (3)
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (4)
}}

==Quotes==
"An interesting tale. Now here are some meaningful words. I am your creator. Please me and I shall reward you. Disappoint me and you shall suffer. A difficult choice?"
:—'''Megatron''' attempts to raise his troops' morale.

'''Cheetor:''' Use me for target practice?! THAT'S IT!! I Am Trans... 
'''Optimus Primal:''' Negative. These storage bins may contain explosives. 
'''Blackarachnia:''' [''scoffs''] Aren't you being just a ''little'' overcautious? 
[''Tankor blows up a storage bin, triggering the explosion of other storage bins in the vicinity.''] 
'''Optimus Primal:''' Next question?
:—'''Optimus Primal''', showing the other Maximals why he's the big banana.

"Transform back before Tankor locks in on you." 
"But..but...I am ''transformed!''"
:—'''Optimus Primal''' talks sense to '''Rattrap''' who appears to be having an off-day.

"Now, if there are no further interruptions." 
"I'm afraid there will be."
:—'''Megatron''' is clued in by '''Optimus'''.

"Tankor! Tankor!" 
"I'm sorry, Tankor is not available at the present time. Would you like to leave a message?"
:—'''Optimus Primal''' tries to contact Tankor's spark again and gets '''Megatron''' instead.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
* When Jetstorm throws Thrust at the building, Thrust looks exactly the same as the Cycle Drones, but then at the just before he transforms, he is back to normal.
* When Megatron glares at the Maximals after they simultaneously transform, his scar is over his left eye instead of his right.

===Real-world references===
* As Rattrap finds the transformation enhancer, he exclaims "Good-bye fur coat; hello full metal jacket!" A ''full metal jacket'' is a copper bullet casing commonly used by infantrymen, as well as the [[:wikipedia:Full Metal Jacket|title of a Stanley Kubrick film]].

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Poursuite'''" ("Pursuit")

:*''Title:'' "'''Le Mercenaire'''" (Canada, "The Mercenary")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Higan no Henshin'''" (悲願の変身, "The Dearly Wished Transformation")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[November 14]], [[2004]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Persecuciones Mercenarias'''" ("Mercenary Pursuits")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2004 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 1 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume One — Reformatting (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season One (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 1 (Sony) — French audio only.

[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

Fires of the Past

2014-11-03T09:11:01Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{disambig2|the Beast Machines episode|the Wings of Honor story|Flames of Yesterday}}
{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=3
|image=Vehicons Fires of The Past.JPG
|caption=Larry, Curly, and Moe.
|title="Fires of the Past"
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|airdate=[[October 2]], [[1999]]
|written by=[[Marv Wolfman]]
|directed by=[[John Pozer]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuity=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''Stymied time and again by his Maximal foes, Megatron brings three new Generals online.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:Fires of the Past Maximals archives.jpg|left|200px|thumb|I'm telling you, Optimus, they were all out of bananas.]]
A fleet of [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]] [[Tank Drone]]s roll towards the [[Cybertron Archives]]. A hiding [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] watches in horror as the tanks open fire, seemingly without provocation, on a [[Optimus Prime memorial|statue]] of [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] holding a pair of [[Golden Disk (disambiguation)|Golden Disks]]. The tanks continue their barrage on the Archive center itself as Blackarachnia runs back to the rest of the hiding [[Maximal]]s, who are there searching for clues to what happened to the missing Cybertronian population. [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] makes it out of the Archives, revealing that he's found... absolutely nothing. The Archives have been deleted in their entirety.

[[Image:Fires of the Past Blackarachnia dream.jpg|right|200px|thumb|In the jungle, the mighty jungle...]]
[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] howls in rage, while a spying [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] chuckles to himself that he's starting history over; everything prior to his reign is now simply a rumor. Inside Megatron's control chamber, a [[Diagnostic Drone]] assures him that he has been "purged" of whatever organic traces remained in him that caused his outbreak into beast mode in the previous episode. More Tank Drones appear to attack the Maximals, and Optimus orders yet another retreat. During the battle, Blackarachnia is knocked out by a blast and has a vision of a beautiful sunset-lit Amazon forest, falling into a pit, and being saved by a shadowy silhouette of [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]].

In the waking world, [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] is carrying the woozy Blackarachnia away from the battle while Optimus draws the majority of the tank fire. Rather than simply taking cover behind a building, he climbs straight ''up'' one while dodging more shots, and the accumulated damage causes the building to topple on the Tank Drone fleet, destroying almost all of them while Optimus leaps to safety. (Optimus planned it that way. Seriously.)

[[Image:Fires of the Past Megatron sparks.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Nope. Totally won't come back around to bite him in the ass.]]
Megatron is so enraged at this turn of events that he loses all control and again reverts to his dragon form, disconnecting from the control armor. He becomes further enraged when he realizes he still hasn't been cured of his beastial tendencies and takes it out on the Diagnostic Drone with some fire breath. Collecting himself and returning to robot form, he ponders why his elite army of drones is still unable to capture four rogue Maximals. The only reasonable answer is simply "free will", so, Megatron pulls out three [[spark]]s from an enormous bank of stored sparks...

Back at the Maximal hideout, Optimus chews out the rest of the Maximals for their extremely sloppy battle performance. Blackarachnia has another vision of Silverbolt while pretending to listen to Optimus' angry lecture. Afterwards she decides to sneak off to the [[Central Spaceport]], and Rattrap has decided to tag along with her. Before Rattrap can get her to explain why she's out there in the first place, they are attacked by three Vehicons. Unfortunately, these three are no Drones—each Vehicon has a spark of their own! They are [[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]], a wisecracking Aero Drone General, [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]], a smoldering Cycle Drone General, and [[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]], a Tank Drone General, whose only distinguishable personality traits are being very angry and stupid.

[[Image:Fires of the Past Blackarachnia Rattrap records.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"See, I told you the Omega-Delta shuttle toy came with six figures."]]
The three Vehicons pretty much blow up everything around Rattrap and Blackarachnia, completely outclassing them (as newly-introduced Transformers typically do). Blackarachnia loses concentration, reverts to Beast Mode and she and Rattrap scurry off. Neither of them yet realize it, but doing so saves them—the Vehicons are unable to detect them on radar while in Beast Mode. Getting inside the spaceport control building, Blackarachnia accesses the aerospace records, finding the records of the Autobot shuttle they came to Cybertron on. She discovers that the ship was shot down by Cybertron's own automated defense systems and that there were six of them on the ship, though their memories of the missing two Maximals are hazy. Blackarachnia then plans to get to the ship itself to find its own backed-up data files.

[[Image:Fires of the Past Blackarachnia ship computer.jpg|left|200px|thumb|"Come on, Neo, get off the other line!"]]
The Vehicons again attack, having locked onto Blackarachnia's Maximal signature, and she and Rattrap are again forced to flee, with Blackarachnia heading for the Autobot Shuttle and Rattrap simply heading home (he's had enough of being shot at for one day). Rattrap finds out (by happy accident) that the Vehicons are unable to track him while he is in Beast Mode. He scuttles off to warn Blackarachnia. Megatron decides to call off the Vehicon attack once he realizes where Blackarachnia is headed, so he can tap into her mind when she accesses the Autobot ship's computer and find the Maximal base through her.

Rattrap warns her of this as well, and the two are forced to destroy the shuttle computer to prevent Megatron from finding out the location of their hideout. The Vehicons resume their attack, and Optimus Primal and Cheetor save the day, Batman-style, by crashing through a skylight and fending off the Vehicons long enough to get out of there before the rest of the Autobot Shuttle blows up. Optimus is, in a word, steamed that his teammates endangered themselves needlessly and got their only chance at easy answers destroyed, but nothing can be done about it now, and they all run back to their hideout.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s
|c1=
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (2)
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (3)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (4)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (5)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]]
|c2=
*[[Tank Drone]]s (1)
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (6)
*[[Diagnostic Drone]] (7)
*[[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]] (8)
*[[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] (9)
*[[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] (10)
}}

==Quotes==
"How is this possible? My battle drones are models of technological perfection. They possess superior firepower and manoeuvrability, and yet they are continually defeated by a small pack of lowly beasts. Why?" 
"Free will?" 
"Hmm, interesting notion."
:—'''Megatron''' and the '''Diagnostic Drone''' discuss the recent losses.

"Three mindless drones, shouldn't be a problem." 
"Only three things wrong with that little theory: One, we're not drones, two, we're not mindless, and three, problem's my middle name."
:—'''Blackarachnia''' is introduced to '''Jet-Problem-storm''' and the new Vehicons.

"This is Captain Jetstorm speaking. Please feel free to move about the tarmac, and flee for your ''miserable little life!''"
:—'''Jetstorm''' enjoying himself way too much.

"They blew us out of the sky?" 
"Yes, stranding all six of us." 
"Why, those lousy— six?! Get real, Webs—if there were six of us then why don't we remember the other two?"
:—'''Blackarachnia''' and '''Rattrap''' learn that their memories have been tampered with more than they realise.

"Well, well, well. Your situation exactly matches your location: TERMINAL!"
:—'''Jetstorm''' finding Rattrap and Blackarachnia.

"Now just stick to beast mode and those Vehicon goons will never find us! ...Unless they happen to be standing right here in front of us."
:—'''Rattrap''''s plan has one minor flaw.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
* The animators avoid directly showing Megatron's unveiled robot mode out of its control harness—in the previous episode, we barely see him transform, in this episode, any clear shot of it is partially obscured either by fast action or back-lighting. We do, however, see that his "cloak" is made up of his wings that would ordinarily arch out of his back in robot mode. Watching in slow-motion more clearly reveals however that the irregular design of his dragon wing "membranes" completely morphs shape between frames to become the long, even strips that make up his cloak.
* Also, although visible for barely a split-second in the previous episode, we now get a better (albeit still fleeting and incomplete) look at his robot mode mid-transformation, and the fact that in this state Megatron's [[animation model]] entirely lacks the new metal-plated texture seen on his dragon mode. His barely-glimpsed robot mode under his "cloak" has the same uniform red texture as it did in ''Beast Wars'', and does not match the currently frankensteinian state of his dragon skin when fully transformed.
* After Tankor first transforms into robot mode, the sky texture jumps position between frames, albeit barely noticeably.
* During Primal's little outbreak of temper at the end, the shadow that he casts on Cheetor freezes as soon as he walks out of frame.
* As Optimus transforms back into his beast mode, Cheetor's legs are all messed up, their parts clipping into each other.

===Continuity errors===
* Optimus Primal seems very insistent on Blackarachnia reverting back to beast mode despite not knowing the reason why she ''should'' until much later in the episode.
* Why would a Diagnostic Drone be so grossly inaccurate when he told Megatron that his organic purging was complete? He even chalks up the mistake to "random residual biological—", right before being blasted by Megatron's ''extremely'' biological beast mode.

===Transformers references===
[[Image:Statue rockandrollhalloffame.jpg|right|180px|thumb|He won the spelling bee by correctly spelling "[[Hun-Gurrr (G1)|Hun-Gurrr]]" and "[[Rartorata]]".]]
*A [[Optimus Prime memorial|giant statue]] of [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] holding two [[Golden Disk (disambiguation)|Golden Disks]] stands in front of the [[Cybertron Archives]]. Writer [[Bob Skir]] claims that neither the statue nor the golden disks in its hands were mentioned the script. However, he suggested that they were either the [[Golden Disk (Voyager)|disks]] from the Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 probes, or that Optimus won them in the 2,395,989th Annual Cybertronian spelling bee.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20080614012630/http://bigbot.com/beast-machines-transformers-bob-skir/Beast-Machines-FAQ/Tue_12_Oct_1999.html Q&A from Bigbot's "bobskir.com"] (archive copy)</ref> We're betting on the latter.
*When Blackarachnia logs into the ship's computer, the animation models for [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]] and [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]]'s head are briefly seen.

===Real-world references===
*Jetstorm refers to Rattrap and Blackarachnia as "Beasties", a reference to the Canadian name for ''Beast Wars''.

===Trivia===
* While Megatron is looking at computer screens, text in the Predacon version of the [[Cybertronix]] [[Cybertronian language|language]] appears. Among the messages are such gems as "these flowers taste funny", "we are the mcanimators from mcmainframe", "smoke some ganja", and "if you can read this seek help".
* Though he says it much less frequently than in ''[[Beast Wars: Transformers (cartoon)|Beast Wars]]'', this episode marks the first time Megatron utters "Yesssss", though in a much less hammy, more sinister manner than before.
* Tankor, Jetstorm and Thrust's personality traits are the exact opposites of the characters whose sparks they possess. Instead of being kind of dense and chivalrous like Silverbolt, Jetstorm is sarcastic and sociopathic. Instead of being a gentle genius, Tankor's a violent idiot. And Thrust is slick and cool, instead of being... well... Waspinator. Comments by Waspinator and Silverbolt in [[The Catalyst|later]] [[In Darkest Knight|episodes]] would reveal they were aware of what was going on and ''enjoyed'' being completely different people, both personas apparently being fantasies of theirs. This didn't seem to apply to Rhinox.
*Since it's already clear that the Maximals are amnesiac, Rattrap's claim that they would remember their missing team members is a little inaccurate (but, then again, they did remember each other on the previous episodes).

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Les Feux du Passé'''" ("The Fires of the Past")

:*''Title:'' "'''L'Attaque du Passé'''" (Canada, "The Attack of the Past")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Ai no Shirushi'''" (愛の古傷, "Marks of Love")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[November 13]], [[2004]]

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Fuegos del Pasado'''" ("Fires of the Past")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2004 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 1 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume One — Reformatting (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season One (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 1 (Sony) — French audio only.

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

Master of the House

2014-11-03T09:10:21Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=2
|prev=The Reformatting
|title="Master of the House"
|next=Fires of the Past
|image=MasterHouse Megatron.jpg
|caption=''Master of the House, quick to catch the eye, never likes a passerby to pass him by...''
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|airdate=[[September 25]], [[1999]]
|written by=[[Marty Isenberg]] [[Bob Skir]]
|directed by=[[Steve Sacks]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuity=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''After their reformatting, the amnesiac Maximals come face to face with the source of their troubles.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:Master of the House Optimus maximals.jpg|left|200px|thumb|If they want to learn how to transform, why don't they just read the instruction booklets?]]

Underground, where the [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]] have neglected to look, the four [[Maximal]]s gather. Under the teachings of [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]], the team try to relearn their new [[transformation]]s. However, it is no longer simple command codes, but now requires emotional balance and deep concentration since their reformatting at the hands of the [[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]]. [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] and [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] manage to use their technorganic transformations properly, but [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] still has trouble with his new body. But their time in robot mode is limited, as a rumbling shakes the chamber and a [[Vehicon Mole]] attacks the Maximals. The shock has forced Cheetor and Blackarachnia back into their beast modes, and they take shelter behind Primal.

Optimus Primal leaps in front of the frightened Maximals and deflects the blasts, all the while explaining that they reverted because they lost their emotional balance. Primal destroys the mindless Vehicon with a blast of energy, but knows it's time to leave, hopefully to find a new base and continue their transformation lessons. However, his idea is met with mild rebuff by Cheetor and Blackarachnia. They believe that they should seek out any survivors and reformat them, using them to destroy the drones. But Optimus overrules them, saying they need to get a handle on their new transformations before they go out looking for trouble. They split up to search out a new base. Blackarachnia and Cheetor are paired together (real smart pairing them up, ya big [[Trukk not munky|munky]]), and Rattrap and Primal go the opposite way.

[[Image:Master of the House Infocore.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"A whole ''planet's'' worth of pornography... ''gone.''"]]
Cheetor and Blackarachnia (with some goading on Blackarachnia's part) decide to go topside. As soon as they clamber up from the caves, they discover that they are in [[Cybertropolis]], the new capital of Cybertron after [[Iacon (polity)|Iacon]]'s size made it useless to the [[Great Upgrade|new population]]. But there is a problem; Cybertropolis should be home to "ten million Transformers", but the duo find it deserted, and the [[Cybertron InfoCore]] has been deleted.

[[Image:Master of the House Cheetor Blackarachnia fall.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Why Grand Theft Auto: Cybertron never really took off.]]
Before the pair can investigate further, they are attacked by [[Aero Drone]]s, and plunge off the side of a building before they can slide to safety. As he runs, Cheetor attempts to transform, but he hasn't found his spiritual center yet and remains in cat mode. Blackarachnia traps two of the jets with her webs, but more arrive. Fortunately, Optimus arrives. He quickly transforms into robot mode and takes to the air, but is soon overwhelmed.

Cheetor and Blackarachnia manage to transform, and they quickly dispatch the drones, Blackarachnia using electrical "stinger" energy and Cheetor's scimitars. Optimus scolds Cheetor for disobeying orders, but is intrigued at their findings. Optimus orders the group to head to the [[Council Citadel]], hoping to find answers. Rattrap moves ahead of the rest of the group but encounters Tank Drones. Optimus orders Cheetor and Blackarachnia to hold off the drones while he investigates inside. When he gets inside, he heads to the chambers of the [[Maximal Elder]]s.

[[Image:Master of the House Optimus Megatron.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"Okay, two words, from a film... Masked, okay, and he's a... greedy person? A self-harmer? Oh, a ''cannibal!'' Boy, this one's a hard 'un, Meggy..."]]
Reaching the council meeting room, Optimus Primal comes face to face with the leader of the drones—[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]], now encased in a suit of control armor. He greets Primal cordially, and decides to "fill in" the gaps in Primal's memory. Megatron claims that he won the [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]], and that he decided to remodel Cybertron into his own image, one of technological purity, devoid of organic life. Thus, he explains, came the [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]], [[spark]]less Transformers who will serve Megatron and crush Primal's "mongrel" Maximals.

However, the Maximals manage to survive the Vehicons, their technorganic bodies and spark-powered ingenuity foiling the mindless might of the drones. Frustrated by the Maximals' survival, and with some goading by Optimus Primal, the enraged Megatron breaks free of his harness and transforms into his [[Alternate mode|dragon mode]], deactivating the drones in the process. Primal and Megatron fight, but Megatron reconnects to his [[control harness]], and summons more Vehicons, mocking Primal all the while. The Maximals arrive, and barely manage to drag Primal away.

When the Maximals inquire about what happened, Optimus Primal tells them that this all happened because he failed to destroy Megatron. However, it is now up to Primal to correct that mistake.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal|Maximals]]
|c1=
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (1)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (2)
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (3)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (4)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]]
|c2=
*[[Vehicon Mole]] (5)
*[[Aero Drone]]s (6)
*[[Tank Drone]]s (7)
*[[Motorcycle Drone]]s (8)
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (9)
}}

==Quotes==
'''Rattrap''': "I am transformed, I am sooo transformed I can't even believe it!...ehhh". 
'''Optimus''': "Just let it happen, don't try to make it happen." 
[''Rattrap tries to force himself to transform''] 
'''Optimus''': "Can you feel it?" 
'''Rattrap''': "Oh! I feel a breakthrough coming..."
:—'''Rattrap''' tries to transform but fails (and makes a dirty double entendre at the same time).

"Aww, come on, ever since we got to Cybertron, all we've done is run and hide."
:—'''Cheetor''', who is ''way'' more right than he knows.

"Cybertron is now my domain. You may bow before your new lord and master."
:—'''Megatron''' lets Optimus know who's in charge.

"I am the future. I have forged this entire planet into a single elegant machine. A vision of technological purity and order. And you four mongrels would dare contaminate that vision with your accursed beast modes."
:—'''Megatron''' speechifies.

"What's wrong, Megatron? Your single elegant machine having trouble multitasking?"
:—'''Optimus''' burns Megatron.

"Look at yourself, Megatron. See the thing you despise the most. Cybertron will never be pure so long as the beast exists within you. You've failed."
:—'''Optimus''' while holding Megatron by the beast neck.

==Notes==
* How does Cheetor follow Blackarachnia up what appears to be a perfectly smooth vertical pipe? Does his new beast mode come with magnetic paws?
* Megatron is scarred across his right eye. Whatever did that to him between the end of ''Beast Wars'' and the start of ''Beast Machines'' is a mystery, which, to this day, has not been explained.
* Megatron claims that the Maximals lost the Beast Wars. Since Optimus is amnesiac and Megatron ''did'' escape to conquer Cybertron (thus pissing on everything the Maximals fought for), this is obviously a taunt and not Bob Skir ignoring the end of "[[Nemesis Part 2]]".

===Animation and technical errors===
* As she walks on the underground tunnel's ceiling, the shadow that Blackarachnia casts on the wall doesn't actually touch her legs, making it look like she's floating.
* The streaks of dust kicked off by the Cycle Drones in the citadel's hallway keep disappearing between shots. In the shot that focuses on the head of one Drone, some dust can be seen forming to its right without anything kicking it off.
* As Primal smashes his way through the Cycle Drones, a bunch of metal pieces keep floating in the air.
* In one shot with Primal running to the door to the [[Maximal Elder |Elders]] Councilroom, one of the Cycle Drones has Thrust's colors, even though Thrust has not yet debuted.
* As the Drone that ramped off one of his companions falls toward the Councilroom door, it remains stuck in the air for a couple of seconds after reaching it.
* When Megatron transforms from his dragon mode back to his all-controlling-mastermind-mode, the transformation sequence used is the one of his Transmetal 2 appearance in Beast Wars.
* In the following shot, as Primal watches Megatron, there seems to be a hole on the side of his robot-mode head, behind which a gray color keeps flashing.
* The scar over Megatron's eye switches sides in some shots.
* As they react to Optimus tumbling down into the darkness, Blackarachnia's right arm disappears into Cheetor's chest. Then, as they spin around, their arms clip through each other.

===Continuity notes===
* Megatron's dragon form looks like a patchwork cyborg rather than the smooth, reddish version it originally was; as we find out in subsequent episodes, this is due to a large number of failed experiments to rid his body of all organic elements. His robot form has apparently undergone alterations as well, since the cloak covering his body appears to be integral to it rather than a part of the control helmet device he is continuously plugged into.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Maître du Conseil'''" ("Master of the Council")

:*''Title:'' "'''Maître des Lieux'''" (Canada, "Master of Places")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Yasei no Chōkyō'''" (野性の調教, "Breaking of the Wild")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[November 7]], [[2004]]

'''Portuguese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Mestre da Casa'''" ("Master of the House")

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''El Amo y Señor'''" ("The Lord and Master")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2004 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 1 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume One — Reformatting (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season One (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 1 (Sony) — French audio only.

[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

The Reformatting

2014-11-03T09:09:32Z

MrBlud: Added the Shout Factory Complete Series to the Home Video Section

{{episode
|series=BMtoon
|ep=1
|prev=Nemesis Part 2
|image=Thereformattingmaximalsmaximize.jpg
|caption=A long tradition of Running Away begins here.
|title="The Reformatting"
|production company=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|airdate=[[September 18]], [[1999]]
|written by=[[Marty Isenberg]] [[Bob Skir]]
|directed by=[[William Lau]]
|animation studio=[[Mainframe Entertainment]]
|continuity=[[Beast Wars continuity]]
}}
'''Escaping from strange new foes and unable to transform, the four surviving Maximals encounter a mysterious supercomputer which remakes them into a new kind of Transformer.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:Primal ModeLocked.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Stukk as munky.]]
On the metal-and-steel planet of [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], a single flower bizarrely grows out of a tear in the street. Suddenly, a [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|gorilla]] races past, pursued by a horde of Tank Drones. In an even stranger vein, Primal has lost his Transmetal properties and is now in his original furry body. After a couple minutes of cat-and-mouse, Optimus decides to face them down and prepares to Maximize. But his [[beast mode]] [[Transformation paralysis|parts refuse to move]] and he screams in pain as he is tortured by electrical shocks.

Suddenly, his eyes glow and he receives a strange signal from an [[oracle (BM)|alien source]]. He sees a [[Monorail transport|monorail vehicle]] nearby and swings away from the drones, and finds another one of his missing comrades—[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]]. Rattrap explains that he has had a lot of trouble transforming as well and has no memory of returning to Cybertron after the end of the [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]] and the capture of Megatron. They escape from the transport after the drones blow it to pieces and Rattrap tries to use his command code repeatedly, resulting in nothing but shocks and pain.

Fortunately, [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] leaps out of nowhere, covering the eyes of one of the drones. Its head spins wildly, and it takes pot shots, destroying one of its counterparts. Cheetor is hoping to find a [[CR chamber]] and use it to eliminate the [[transformation virus|transformation lock virus]] that plagues them all. Rattrap points out that Cybertron seems to have changed a lot in their absence. But there is no time to discuss matters, as new tank drones are readying a renewed assault. Plunging into a hole, the Maximals bounce on a web. It is [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]], the Predacon-turned-Maximal, unable to convert and stuck in her organic body.

[[Image:Oracle (The Reformatting).jpg|right|200px|thumb|Nor-mal view! Nor-mal view! Nor-mal view! NOR-MAL VIIIIIEEEEEEWWWW!!!]]
Optimus Primal decides that the best course of action is to head deeper underground, where the [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon drones]] have failed to look. Using the webs of Blackarachnia, they head deeper into the bowels of Cybertron, passing layers and layers of cities as they descend. Brushed metal and steel give way to rusting iron, which gives way to stone. Eventually, too weak to climb, they fall, plunging into complete darkness. Determined not to die, Primal throws a piece of scrap metal, shattering some kind of covering and awakening the supercomputer called the Oracle. A wall of flames springs up. Undaunted by the seeming threat, Optimus walks straight through them, revealing the hologram. The Oracle speaks to Primal, taking him into the bowels of the Matrix.

[[Image:Reformatting Optimus Primal spotlight.jpg|left|200px|thumb|At the Oracle's urging, Primal attempted a Care Bear Stare.]]
Granted visions that he could not yet understand, he sees images of an [[Earth]]-like planet transformed into a purely mechanical world. Concluding with the mysterious statement that "the seeds of the future lie buried in the past", the Oracle declares that it is time for him to begin his "[[reformatting]]", tapping the power of the Matrix and converting his purely organic gorilla body into a perfect blend of organic tissue and mechanical parts. Stepping back into real-space in a wash of light, the other three Maximals admire his new body. Primal says that they must be "reformatted" as well, and one by one, Cheetor, Rattrap and Blackarachnia exit the Oracle, in new, [[technorganic]] bodies.

Suddenly, the Oracle winks out of existence, and a hum fills the cave. This is another squadron of Vehicons, but instead of tanks, they are motorcycles. Lining up, Optimus Primal orders the Maximals to Maximize. Although no pain ensues, nothing happens. Optimus realizes they must learn how to transform as it has somehow become a lost art after the first Transformers "came" to Cybertron. Realizing this, the Maximals resign to combat in their strange new beast modes. Rattrap attacks a Cycle Drone's wheel with his teeth, Cheetor pounces on a motorcycle, and Blackarachnia uses her webs to snare another. Primal is shot, and plunges into a pit. Panicking, a voice from the Oracle reminds him that "he must tame the beast without to release the warrior within".

[[Image:Reformatting Optimus Primal robot.jpg|right|200px|thumb|I change bodies faster than a nerd changes socks.]]
Finding his inner balance, he manages to transform. A blue light spreads throughout his body, converting it to robot mode through a liquid-morph style transformation. Activating his jets, he flies out from certain doom. Grabbing the nearest Drone, he demands answers, but gets none as they escape. His anger has made him lose his center, and he converts back to beast mode. Awed, Cheetor expresses his interest in this new transformation style. Optimus declares that they must re-learn the art of transformation and their new style of combat.

Meanwhile, a mysterious figure watches the battle in the citadel and vows to destroy the "impure" organic Maximals. It's [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]], now the supreme ruler of Cybertron!
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|h1=[[Maximal]]s
|c1=
*[[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] (1)
*[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] (3)
*[[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (4)
*[[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] (5)

|h2=[[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]]s|c2=
*[[Tank Drone]] (2)
*[[Motorcycle Drone]] (7)
*[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (8)

|c4=
*[[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]] (6)
}}

==Quotes==
"Hey! You just slagged your own guy! That's deep-freeze cold!"
:—'''Cheetor''' does not approve of team kills

"Everyone underground!" 
"What makes you think it's any better down there?" [''a tank nearby explodes''] "I withdraw the question."
:—'''Optimus''' and '''Rattrap''' debate where to retreat.

"The Great Transformation awaits, Optimus Primal. Prepare to be... reformatted. Remember this; the seeds of the future lie buried in the past. To unleash the warrior within, you must tame the beast without. Seek the balance, Optimus Primal. Transform your destiny. Transform and transcend..."
:—'''The Oracle''', being all mystical

"Uh, boss, do these upgrades come with a warranty?
:—'''Rattrap''' after discovering they still can't transform.

"The first robots who came to Cybertron had to learn how to transform. It took discipline, purity of spark, and years of practice." 
"News flash for ya, monkey boy: WE AIN'T GOT YEARS!"
:—'''Optimus''' and '''Rattrap'''.

'''Cheetor:''' "Awesome transformation, big bot!" 
'''Rattrap:''' "So, what's your secret?" 
'''Optimus:''' "I... understand." 
'''Blackarachnia:''' "Great. That makes one of us."
:—The postmortem on Optimus' transformation.

==Notes==
* A special advance screening of this episode was held at [[BotCon 1999]], where it received an overwhelmingly positive reaction.

===Continuity errors===
* Although the Maximals' original beast modes from ''[[Beast Wars: Transformers (cartoon)|Beast Wars]]'' are shown in this episode, there are some rather strange inconsistencies here. [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]]'s fur is brown instead of grey, [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]]'s feet are dark orange instead of pink, [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]]'s skin is a lighter shade of blue and smoother, and [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] has black eyes with two black streaks running down his face.
* While an easy mistake, Optimus cannot have regressed to his organic (non-transmetal) beast mode. Optimus' organic body was destroyed during the Planet Buster crisis and with it the DNA sequence of the gorilla he scanned in the first episode of ''Beast Wars''. So technically, Optimus should have returned to his [[Transmetal]] body.

===Transformers references===
* It was from this episode that the term "reformatting" passed into general use amongst Transformerdom.
* Optimus says that the first Transformers had to ''learn'' to transform before it became second nature to the robotic races... this is possibly a reference to several flashback sequences in the original cartoon series which mentioned how Autobots had to learn to change their shape to overcome their enemies.

===Real-world references===
*Rattrap says, "Ground Control to Major Optimus," which is a reference to the 1969 David Bowie song "[[wikipedia:Space Oddity|Space Oddity]]."
*During Optimus Primal's visions, a group of black [[wikipedia:The Monolith|monoliths]] are briefly seen, a nod to the film ''[[wikipedia:2001: A Space Odyssey|2001: A Space Odyssey]]''. Additionally, the close-ups of Optimus while interfacing with the Oracle, intercut with his POV zooming through abstract visuals, are very similar to the infamous "trip" scene in ''2001''.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Remise à Zéro'''" ("Reset to Zero")

:*''Title:'' "'''Le Reformage'''" (Canada, "The Reforming")

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Densetsu no Fukkatsu'''" (伝説の復活, "Resurrection of the Legend")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[November 6]], [[2004]]

'''Portuguese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''A Reformatação'''" ("The Reformatting")

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''La Reforma'''" ("The Reformation")

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2004 — ''Super Lifeform Transformers: Beast Wars Returns'' — Volume 1 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Beast Machines: Transformers'' — The Complete Series ([[Rhino Entertainment|Rhinomation]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — The Complete Series ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume One ([[Sony]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Season One: Volume One — Reformatting (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Complete Season One (Sony) 
[[Image:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Beast Machines'' — Intégrale Saison 1 (Sony) — French audio only.

{{DEFAULTSORT:Reformatting}}
[[Category:Beast Machines episodes]]

Ultra Magnus (WFC)

2013-04-15T07:08:01Z

MrBlud: /* Prime cartoon */

{{faction|autobot|wreckers}}
{{disambig3|Ultra Magnus}}
[[Image:UltraMagnusPrime-TopTrumps.jpg|right|thumb|300px|"Ugh, I told them to take my picture from the ''waist up''. Now everyone will see that I didn't transform my pants that day!"]]
:''Ultra Magnus is an [[Autobot]] from the [[Aligned continuity family]].''

'''Ultra Magnus''' is the hammer-wielding commander of the [[Wrecker]]s, and one of [[Optimus Prime (WFC)|Optimus Prime]]'s closest lieutenants. He's more than capable of whipping even the worst disarray into military discipline, though he can get rather hung-up on protocol. Regardless, he's rightly feared among the [[Decepticon]] ranks.

{{quote|Daring, strategically ingenious, and courageous to the point of recklessness, Ultra Magnus hammers back the Decepticon forces — literally.|[[Alpha Trion (Prime)|Alpha Trion]]|[[Covenant of Primus]]}}

==Fiction==
===Aligned novels===
Ultra Magnus was a sergeant of the [[Autobot High Council|Council]] Guardians who held back the Decepticons during the siege of the [[Hydrax Plateau]] spaceport despite overwhelming odds. Though the spaceport fell, Magnus and his main soldiers proved to be indispensable soldiers and were dubbed the "Wreckers". The Wreckers were crucial to holding [[Tagan Heights]], battling [[Devastator (WFC)|Devastator]] and buying time for the scientists there to build the [[Protectobot (Prime)|Protectobot]] [[combiner]] [[Defensor (Prime)|Defensor]].

When [[Megatron (WFC)|Megatron]] corrupted the [[core]] of Cybertron with [[Dark Energon]], Ultra Magnus and his Wreckers had destroyed an armored convoy on the Iacon-Hydrax road. They guarded the entrance at the [[Well of All Sparks]] with [[Cliffjumper (WFC)|Cliffjumper]] while [[Optimus Prime (WFC)|Optimus Prime]], [[Bumblebee (WFC)|Bumblebee]] and [[Jetfire (WFC)|Jetfire]] descended to purge the core. When the ''[[Ark (WFC)|Ark]]'' was completed, Ultra Magnus offered to stay behind and fight off [[Trypticon (WFC)|Trypticon]] when the gargantuan Decepticon emerged. Trypticon transformed into the ''Nemesis'' and pursued the ''Ark'' into space, but with his Wreckers and [[Omega Supreme (WFC)|Omega Supreme]] along with other remaining Autobots, Magnus was ready to battle [[Shockwave (WFC)|Shockwave]]'s new regime. {{storylink|Transformers: Exodus|Exodus}}

{{charstubfiction}}
{{storylink|Transformers: Exiles|Exiles}}

===''Rage of the Dinobots''===
[[Image:RageOfTheDinobots2-UltraMagnus.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Seriously, how many bodies do I have?!]]
After [[Optimus Prime (WFC)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Megatron (WFC)|Megatron]] had left Cybertron, there was still a convoy of ships that was trying to escape what was left of the war. This convoy was escorted by Ultra Magnus and the [[Dinobot (Prime)|Dinobot]]s, who fended the escape crafts from Decepticon saboteurs. After saving [[Swoop (WFC)|Swoop]] from the Decepticons who had surrounded him, Ultra Magnus and his personal craft exploded and crashed. Ultra Magnus was pulled from the wreckage by surviving members of the long-lost [[Predacon (Prime)|Predacon]] faction and relocated to their hideout. The Predacons' commander, [[Ser-Ket]], reported to her master, [[Shockwave (WFC)|Shockwave]], that Ultra Magnus was theirs, ready to be [[re-forged]]. {{storylink|Rage of the Dinobots issue 1}}

Before Ser-Ket's Decepticons could get to him, Ultra Magnus was broken out of his cell by the Dinobots, who were searching for a captured Swoop. After letting them know that the lost Dinobot had also fallen into Ser-Ket's clutches, he accompanied his rescuers to the prison's roof where they were confronted by Ser-Ket and her new minion... and a re-forged Swoop. {{storylink|Rage of the Dinobots issue 2}} Believing Swoop to be lost, Ultra Magnus suggested they leave him and focus on rescuing the other Autobots in the prison, but [[Grimlock (WFC)|Grimlock]] ignored him and challenged Ser-Ket to a duel. {{storylink|Rage of the Dinobots issue 3}} Ser-Ket was defeated, only for her master Shockwave to appear, defeat Ultra Magnus and the others with an [[electromagnetic pulse|EMP]], and bring them to his lab to finish his experiments on the Dinobots. Everyone but Grimlock was left in a cell, but broke out by having Magnus and [[Slug]] fake an argument, tricking the guards into opening the cell to try to calm them down. After the Dinobots rescued Grimlock and defeated the avatar Shockwave was using to experiment on him, Ultra Magnus joined the rest of the Autobot fleet in space while the Dinobots elected to remain on Cybertron. {{storylink|Rage of the Dinobots issue 4}}

===''Prime cartoon''===
{{voiceactor|[[Michael Ironside]] (English)}}
[[File:Scattered-Ultra Magnus.jpg|thumb|left|300px|Admit it! I look AWESOME!!!!!!]]

Ultra Magnus detected a huge energy surge heading towards [[Earth]] and followed it there to search for Autobot energy traces. {{storylink|Prey}} He set down in front of the nearest signal to find [[Arcee (Prime)|Arcee]] and [[Jack Darby|a native life-form]]. {{storylink|Scattered}} After establishing proper chain of command, he took them aboard and proceeded to the next energy traces, only to find [[Wheeljack (Prime)|Wheeljack]] and [[Bulkhead (Prime)|Bulkhead]] fighting a [[Predaking (Prime)|huge metal dragon]]. He picked the pair up along with [[Miko Nakadai|another native life-form]] and engaged in a duel with the beast, eventually managing to knock it off the top of his spaceship by flying through a canyon. Magnus tracked the remaining Autobot traces to [[Harbinger|a wrecked Decepticon ship]] and found [[Ratchet (WFC)|Ratchet]] and [[Bumblebee (WFC)|Bumblebee]]. Assuming command in [[Optimus Prime (WFC)|Optimus Prime]]'s absence, Ultra Magnus introduced the Autobots to his weapons locker. {{storylink|Prey}}

{{spoiler|Rebellion (Prime)|May 12, 2013}}
Magnus led an attack on [[Darkmount (Earth)|Darkmount]], flying his ship into battle and using it to lure the Predacon through a [[GroundBridge]]. When the Autobot forces got into trouble, he assaulted the [[fusion cannon]] control room himself, only to encounter [[Megatron (WFC)|Megatron]]. Though he was beaten and dragged to the throne room. Ultra Magnus's salvation came when Optimus Prime arrived in a more... robust form and trounced Megatron. Following the destruction of Darkmount, Magnus joined the Autobots at a human military base, where he passed command back to Optimus. {{storylink|Rebellion (Prime)|Rebellion}}
{{-}}

==Games==
===''Transformers: War for Cybertron'' (DS)===
[[Image:UltraMagnusWFCDSconcept.jpg|thumb|300px|"I can't make this joke right now."]]
{{voiceactor|[[Jamieson Price]] (English)}}
Following Trypticon's crash-landing and subsequent rampage on Cybertron, Ultra Magnus took part in the Autobot counter-attack on the beast. At one point, he was pinned down by enemy fire, and asked Jetfire and Ironhide for assistance.

Somehow Ultra Magnus got corrupted by [[Dark Energon]] and left in the sewers, likely by the Decepticons [[Swoop (WFC)|who are known to do that sort of thing]]. There he ran around randomly breaking things until the Autobots, unaware of his presence, placed a bomb in the sewers, intending to prevent them from falling under Decepticon control. When the Autobots detected a strange signal coming from the collapsing sewers, they sent in a small team to investigate. The team was confronted with the sight of Magnus crashing through a wall, and realized he'd been corrupted. With time short, the Autobots fought Ultra Magnus until the Dark Energon was purged from his system and he regained his senses. Then they all high-tailed it out of the sewers before the final collapse. {{storylink|Transformers: War for Cybertron (DS)}}
{{Note|Ultra Magnus is an unlockable character for the [[Transformers: War for Cybertron (DS)|Nintendo DS version]] of ''War for Cybertron'', unlocked by defeating him in the "Sewer 6" arena mission.}}

{{-}}

===Transformers: Fall of Cybertron===
[[Image:FOC-Magnusmodel.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Don't mind the badge.]]
{{Note|Ultra Magnus does not appear in the campaign of ''Fall of Cybertron''. However, he is available in multiplayer if the Havoc DLC pack is downloaded.}}
{{storylink|Transformers: Fall of Cybertron|Fall of Cybertron}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Cyberverse===
[[Image:Prime-toy_CyberverseCommanderUltraMagnus.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Can't deal with lying down on the job.]]
*'''Ultra Magnus''' (Cyberverse Commander, 2012)
**''Series / Number'': '''02 / 007'''
**''Japanese release date'': '''[[July 28|7-28]]-2012'''
**''Japanese ID number'': '''EZ-16'''
**''Accessories:'' Battle hammer/Cannon

: Part of the third wave of ''[[Transformers: Prime (toyline)|Prime]]'' [[Cyberverse#Series 2|Series 2 Cyberverse]] Commander Class toys, Ultra Magnus transforms into a truck and back! This version of Magnus is a new mold of a one-piece flat-bed truck, and he features a translucent chest and front windshield to interact with the light-up features of the various Cyberverse playsets. He comes with a translucent blue hammer which can also transform into an artillery cannon, and he can hold the weapon in either mode with his hands, or store it on a [[C joint|3mm post]] on his roof/back. Additionally, he has 3mm peg-holes on his toolboxes/forearms, his truck rear, and on either side of his hammerhead/cannon base. In order to accommodate holding the hammer by the haft, Magnus' hands are molded unusually open, likely in order to avoid stress marks and/or breakage.

: He also has [[kibble#"Faux-parts"|fake wheels]] on the insides of his legs, in order to emulate the look of his Voyager Class toy (see below), whose transformation he can't completely mimic.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2012/Autobot/CommUltraMagnus/ultramagnus.htm More information on Cyberverse Ultra Magnus at TFU.info]''

{{-}}

===Prime===
{{anchor|Voyager}}
[[Image:Primetoy-UltraMagnusVoyager.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Probably hangs out with [[Optimus Prime (Movie)/toys#DOTMVoyFireburst|Fireburst Optimus Prime]].]]
[[Image:Primetoy-TakaraTomy-UltraMagnus.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Magnus in Pajamas.]]
*'''Ultra Magnus''' (Voyager, 2012)
**''Series / Number'': '''1 / 006'''
**''Japanese release date'': '''[[December 15|12-15]]-2012'''
**''Japanese ID number'': '''AM-27'''
**''Accessories'': Blaster cannon/Battle hammer & missile (Hasbro only), Arms Micron Ulma (TakaraTomy only)

: Part of the fourth wave of ''[[Transformers: Prime (toyline)#Robots in Disguise (2012)|Prime: Robots in Disguise]]'' Voyager Class toys, this larger-scale Magnus comes with a massive artillery cannon that transforms into a "battle hammer", with its hammerhead illuminated by an LED. Unlike all the other Voyager Class light-up weapons in the line, it is capable of locking into hammer mode. His [[instructions]] tell you to peg the cannon's hammerhead posts onto both of the flip-out [[5mm post|5mm socket]]-mounts on his truck bed, but it can only securely peg onto one of them at a time thanks to slightly mis-aligned pegs/mounts. He also has an extra (non-firing) rocket that you can put wherever it makes you happy.

: He is mis-transformed in his [[stock photography]], with the rear truck wheels left sticking out of his lower legs, rather than folding around his calves. It also depicts him having additional [[paint operation]]s which were omitted from the final product, such as the red paint on the upper half of his chest, and the silver paint on his abdomen, smokestacks, and truck bed sides. Additionally, the weapon's locking mechanism appears to have been [[retool]]ed for the final toy. These stock photo errors are present in the robot mode render seen at the top of this page, with said render (from the waist up) being used as this toy's [[package art]].

: The [[TakaraTomy]] release, part of the ninth wave of Japanese ''Prime'' toys, features numerous differences from the Hasbro release. His blue plastic is brighter and non-metallic, his grille, toes, and sculpted shoulder rockets are a brighter gray, and his arms, thighs, and hands are a darker gray. Most of his paint operations have been replaced with customer-applied foil [[sticker]]s, and of what paint remains, his white has been replaced by yellow, his silver is brighter, and his red is more matte. Instead of the Hasbro accessories, he comes with his [[Arms Micron]] partner [[Ulma]], who transforms into his hammer. The hammer can still be wielded two-handed, but doesn't make a particularly convincing artillery cannon.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2012/Autobot/UltraMagnus/ultramagnus.htm More information on ''Robots in Disguise'' Ultra Magnus at TFU.info]''

{{-}}

===Generations===
[[Image:Generations-toy_FOCUltraMagnus.jpg|thumb|right|300px|"Yeah, that was my sword phase. I... don't want to talk about it."]]
*'''Ultra Magnus''' (Deluxe, 2012)
**''Series / Number'': '''1 / 009'''
**''Japanese release date'': '''[[February 23|02-23]]-2013'''
**''Japanese ID number'': '''TG11'''
:*''Accessories:'' Three-piece sword, blaster

: Part of the third wave of 2012 ''[[Transformers: Generations|Generations'']] Deluxe Class toys, [[Transformers: Fall of Cybertron|''Fall of Cybertron]]'' Ultra Magnus is a blue, white, red, black, and silver [[redeco]]/[[retool]] of ''Fall of Cybertron'' [[Optimus Prime (WFC)#FOCtoy|Optimus Prime]], retaining the blaster, and coming with a new head and sword. The blaster features two 5mm posts at the top and bottom, while the sword features 5mm posts for its handle and on its side, and is modeled after the blade used by Optimus at the end of ''Fall of Cybertron''. The sword is actually made up of three pieces, which can combine with the blaster to form an even ''bigger'' sword, with the two blade halves clipping onto slots present on the blaster's body, and the handle being pegged onto the blaster's handle. Ultra Magnus features numerous 5mm ports for storage and mounting, such as his hands, arms, robot back, smokestacks, the sides of his legs/truck rear, and the soles of his feet (which end up on top of the truck rear).

: Unusually, his [[stock photography]] depicts him with ''fewer'' [[paint operation]]s than the final product, with the final toy having black paint details on his lower legs that the toy in the stock photo lacks.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2013/Autobot/FOCUltraMagnus/ultramagnus.htm More information on ''Generations'' Ultra Magnus at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===Platinum Edition===
*'''Ultra Magnus''' (Weaponizer, 2013)
**''Accessories'': [[Forge of Solus Prime#Platinum Edition|Forge of Solus Battle Hammer]], blaster cannon

: ''[[Transformers: Platinum Edition|Platinum Edition]]'' Ultra Magnus is a retool/redeco of the "Robots in Disguise" Weaponizer Class [[Optimus Prime (WFC)#Weaponizer|Optimus Prime]] toy. He retains the blaster cannon accessory, and additionally comes with the "Forge of Solus Battle Hammer", a massive hammer that can mount on the rear of his truck mode. While the main haft of the hammer cannot be held, two smaller 5mm handles on either end of the haft allow Ultra Magnus to wield the hammer two-handed.

{{comingsoontoy}}
{{-}}

===Beast Hunters===
[[Image:BHtoy Voyager Ultra Magnus.jpg|thumb|300px|Two can play at this game, [[Optimus Prime (WFC)#BHVoyager|Prime!]]]]
*'''Ultra Magnus''' (Voyager, 2013)
**''Series / Number'': '''2 / 004'''
**''Accessories'': [[Forge of Solus Prime#Beast Hunters|Forge of Solus Battle Hammer]], backpack, two missiles

: Part of the third wave of ''Prime: [[Beast Hunters]]'' Voyager Class toys, Ultra Magnus is now a retool/redeco of the "Robots in Disguise" Voyager Class [[Optimus Prime (WFC)#Voyager|Optimus Prime]] toy, reflecting his depiction in the third season of the ''Prime'' cartoon. His forearms sport the additional 5mm post holes from the [[TakaraTomy]] [[Arms Micron]] release of Optimus Prime. He comes with a different, smaller version of the "Forge of Solus Battle Hammer", which features a 5mm handle, and can store on the back of his truck mode.

:The original TakaraTomy version of this mold was redecoed to make AM-25 [[Nemesis Prime (Prime)|Nemesis Prime]].
{{comingsoontoy}}
{{--}}

==Notes==
[[Image:UltraMagnusOrionPaxPart2.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*Magnus's [[Magnus Hammer|hammer]] is a reference to the [[Ultra Magnus (Animated)|''Animated'' Ultra Magnus]], while his role as leader of the Cybertronian resistance and the [[Wrecker]]s references his [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Generation 1 counterpart]] in the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel UK|Marvel UK comic series]] and the [[Dreamwave Productions]] comic series. His personality in ''Prime'' is based on his [[Ultra Magnus#IDW Generation 1 continuity|IDW counterpart]]: a stiff bore obsessed with rules and regulations.
*An image with Ultra Magnus's head and collar appears under the false name of "Optimus Prime" when [[Optimus Prime (WFC)|Orion Pax]] was researching the name in "[[Orion Pax, Part 2]]".

[[Category:Cyberverse]]
[[Category:Fall of Cybertron Autobots]]
[[Category:Generations]]
[[Category:Prime Autobots]]
[[Category:War for Cybertron Autobots]]
[[Category:Wreckers]]

Charlie Burns

2012-08-19T07:30:44Z

MrBlud: /* Rescue Bots cartoon */

{{disambig3|Burns}}
:''Charlie Burns is a [[human]] from the [[Transformers: Rescue Bots (franchise)|Rescue Bots]] portion of the [[Aligned continuity family]].''

[[Image:Charlie Burns profile.jpg|300px|thumb|Of all the Charlie Burnses in the world, you're the Charlie Burnsiest.]]

Along with [[Heatwave (RB)|Heatwave]], Chief '''Charles "Charlie" Burns''', leads the [[Rescue Bot]]s, a secret team of [[Autobot]]s and humans that protect [[Earth]], and especially [[Griffin Rock]] island, from fires, floods, disaster and crime. His tool of choice is the [[Rescue Cutter]], which can tear down barriers between heroes and the danger they must extinguish. He partners with [[Chase (RB)|Chase]] and [[Optimus Prime (Prime)|Optimus Prime]]. He is the father of [[Kade Burns|Kade]], [[Graham Burns|Graham]], [[Dani Burns|Dani]], and [[Cody Burns|Cody]].

==Fiction==
===''Rescue Bots'' pack-in storybooks===
[[Image:ChiefCharlieBurns.jpg|left|thumb|150px|Goold ol' Charlie Burns... yes, sir! Good ol' Charlie Burns... how I hate him!]]

Early one morning at [[Fire Station Prime]], Chief Charlie directed [[Heatwave (RB)|Heatwave]] to participate in a fire training exercise on the other side of town. After Heatwave left, Chief Charlie's son Cody arrived, eager to be given his own mission. However, Chief Charlie only trusted Cody with washing [[Sparkplug (RB)|Sparkplug]], the firehouse dog. Though dejected, Cody and Sparkplug were able to alert Chief Charlie to the presence of an electrical fire within Fire Station Prime itself! Trapped on the roof of the burning station, the Burnses struggled to activate the [[Prime Signal]] to call for help, until ultimately Cody was able to activate it manually. Heatwave quickly returned, and Chief Charlie's son was surprised to learn that their fire truck was actually a fire-fighting sentient robot! After the fire was extinguished and the group spoke with Optimus Prime via teleconference, Chief Charlie nodded with approval as his son was welcomed as a full member of the team. {{storylink|Prime Alert}}
{{-}}

===''Rescue Bots'' cartoon===
:''Voice actor:'' [[Maurice LaMarche]] (English)
When he was young, Charlie Burns built himself a go-kart. {{Storylink|Cody on Patrol}} He, [[Doc Greene]] and [[Luskey|Mayor Luskey]] chased [[Morocco|Doctor Morocco]] out of town when his inventions were deemed unsafe. {{storylink|The Reign of Morocco}}

[[Image:FamilyofHeroes-Burnses.jpg|left|thumb|300px|One of the show's upcoming educational puzzles is determining what hair color genetics Charlie and his unseen mate possess which would have facilitated this range of hair color in their offspring.]]
As the head of a family of rescue heroes, Burns was entrusted by Optimus Prime with the secret that the new Rescue Bots were actually Autobots. He presented the quartet to the people of [[Griffin Rock]] as new hi-tech robots. When they attended a fire at the [[Griffin Rock Natural History Museum|museum]] and Heatwave saved Burns and [[Graham Burns|Graham]] from a falling dinosaur head, Burns covered for the Autobot. That night, the Rescue Bots contacted him, and he discovered that [[Cody Burns|Cody]] had discovered the secret. After the whole team united to stop a rogue robotic ''Tyrannosaurus rex'', he let [[Kade Burns|Kade]], [[Dani Burns|Dani]] and Graham in on the truth as well. {{storylink|Family of Heroes}}

Chief Burns and Chase stopped an out-of-control [[robo-landscaper]] while the rest of the team were busy failing to cooperate. He later alerted the rest of the team to the fact that lava was overflowing out of manholes across the town, and together with [[Chase (RB)|Chase]], made sure the residents were cleared from the area. When the problem was traced to [[Mount Magma]] and the rest of the team went to deal with the problem, Chief Burns and Chase patrolled the area around the mountain and cleared out campers. {{storylink|Under Pressure}}

Chief Burns accompanied Chase as they chased down [[Doc Greene]]'s out-of-control [[solar car]] and stopped it plunging into a ravine. He was with the team again as they responded to a rock fall. {{storylink|Hotshots}} He was helping Doc Greene inflate balloons with helium prior to the [[Lobster and Technology Festival]] when he and the Rescue Bots had to rescue the Doc from a runaway parade balloon. The next day the team was taking part in the parade when it came under attack from [[flobster]]s. They quickly swung into action once more, protecting the townsfolk from the flying threat until Doc Greene could mix up a permanent solution. {{storylink|Flobsters on Parade}}

[[Image:AlienInvasion Chief Burns facepalm.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Good grief.]]
Burns found himself covering for the Rescue Bots again after a rescue, but told them that saving lives had priority over maintaining cover. He and the family subsequently had to stop [[Huxley Prescott]] from inadvertently destroying the island with his [[SETI]] dish. {{storylink|The Alien Invasion of Griffin Rock}} After retrieving a cat from a tree, Burns decided to celebrate [[Earth Day]] by having everyone clean up the fire station. The next day, he and the team were faced with several escapees from the [[Griffin Rock Zoo|zoo]], including [[Whiskers|a lion]] and some trained lemurs. {{storylink|Walk on the Wild Side}}

Burns took part in the rescue of [[Harrison (RB)|Mr Harrison]] and was impressed when Cody rebuilt his old go-kart into [[Rolling Thunder]], though he turned down Cody's request to get a bigger engine for it. After Cody tried souping it up with nanites, Burns made him help [[Boulder]] replant the trees that had been knocked down in the ensuing chaos. {{storylink|Cody on Patrol}} Chase and the Chief were blocking traffic from trying to cross a damaged bridge when a man on a motorcycle zoomed past them. On another occasion, Burns supervised the operation to save the bank after a sinkhole opened under it. {{storylink|Four Bots and a Baby}}

[[Image:DeepTrouble Chief Burns apron.jpg|thumb|left|200px|AAUGH]]
During a heatwave, Burns discovered that Chase didn't have air conditioning. After Cody had the idea to use a weather machine to create snow, Burns joined in with a snow fight, but ended up having to go rescue people when the machine went out of control. {{storylink|Christmas in July}} Burns, Cody and the Rescue Bots went on the family annual fishing trip on the ''[[Darby Eva]]'', something Burns regarded as a way to bond. When they encountered a [[shark submarine|robotic shark]], Burns left his son on the pier while he and the bots tried to find the finned menace. Though Burns had a plan to lead the sub into a cove, it started attacking the ferry instead, and Burns and [[Blades (RB)|Blades]] had to go to the assistance of the people on board. While they did so, the other Rescue Bots disabled the shark, but when Burns opened the sub, he triggered a self destruct, and Blade had to carry the vessel away before it exploded. {{storylink|Deep Trouble}}

On a particularly foggy day, Burns and his team had to deal with the island's technology run amok thanks to a virus in the central mainframe, and also the rogue [[Trex]], which was infected with the same virus. {{storylink|Return of the Dinobot}} He continued to educate Chase on compassionate policing. When Doctor Morocco returned to the island with a [[MorBot]], aiming to replace Burns's team, Burns argued against letting Morocco have the chance. He and his team were forced to compete against the MorBot, and eventually lost through the machinations of Morocco. The team was stood done. {{storylink|The Other Doctor}} Though Burns argued with the mayor and brought evidence that was disregarded, he refused to give up. When there was a fire at the lab, the team was finally called out to attend to it, and Cody and [[Frankie Greene]] managed to obtain evidence against Morocco that saw Burns's team reinstated. {{storylink|The Reign of Morocco}}

The silent alarm at the [[Hall of Inspiration]] had Chief Burns and his team attend it, but while Burns and Chase apprehended [[Evan (RB)|Evan]] and [[Myles]], the other three Rescue Bots went missing. Burns interrogated the pair at length as to the nature of the gun they'd used on the Bots without success. After Cody worked out it was the [[Minimizer]], Burns drove him to [[Griffin Rock dam]] where the three miniaturized Rescue Bots had ended up. {{storylink|Small Blessings}} Burns took part in the rescue of [[Wild|Captain Wild]]. When Cody turned up information about [[Anna Baranova|Professor Anna Baranova]], Chief Burns decided they'd go and check out the [[Griffin Rock Triangle]], where they found the professor still living in the crashed ''[[Midgard]]''. The team helped her to complete her mission, destroying the lab to seal the methane vent that had caused all the ship sinkings. {{storylink|The Griffin Rock Triangle}}

[[Image:RulesAndRegulations father and son.jpg|thumb|right|250px]]
Wanting to spend some time with his kid, Chief Burns invited Cody along to do a security check on [[Griffin Crest]] and left the bots with strict orders not to follow them. After a brief run-in with a bear, the pair continued with their security check, unaware that the bots had been alarmed by Cody's garbled phone call. Later, having been chased up a cliff by the bear, Chief Burns and his son were unable to render any assistance when the bots were immobilized by the [[Electromagnetic pulse|EM field]], but after the crisis was over, they continued with their camping. {{storylink|Rules and Regulations}} When a storm hit Griffin Rock, Chief Burns called the whole team out to help secure the town, but Cody and the Rescue Bots were swept out to sea, forcing the family to go out searching for them on the ''Darby Eva''. {{storylink|The Lost Bell}}

He and the team went to [[Wayward Island]] to investigate a meteorite crash, and encountered [[Bumblebee (Prime)|Bumblebee]]. After three of the Rescue Bots were stricken with an alien virus, the Burns family returned to the island to get a sample of the meteorite and destroy the rest. Though they ran into problems with the rough seas, they succeeded. {{storylink|Bumblebee to the Rescue (RB)|Bumblebee to the Rescue}} Chief Burns took part in a call-out to deal with a rampaging blob of [[Squilsh]]. He was nearly eaten by it when he got his foot caught in a ladder, but it instead got Chase. Burns spent the remainder of the mission trying to contact Chase and coordinating with Cody and Doc Greene as they tried to find a way to stop the Squilsh. {{storylink|You've Been Squilshed}}

While Charlie Burns and Chase were dealing with some strange events involving disappearing people, Burns picked up a mechanical bug and was teleported to a cavern under Griffin Rock. He set about organizing the townspeople to try and break out of the cave, though in the end they were rescued by the Rescue Bots. {{storylink|Countdown (RB)|Countdown}} After the team had a series of call outs during which they encountered ghosts, Cody pointed Chief Burns to the fact that the ghosts were [[hologram]]s, and he visited the jail to discover that Myles and Evan had escaped. With Doc Greene's help, the Chief set a holographic trap and his team caught the pair in the act of robbing a jewelry story. {{storylink|The Haunting of Griffin Rock}}

On his birthday, as it appeared that the rest of the team had forgotten, the Chief lied about where he was going so he could pick up a cake from the bakery. When he and Chase later became trapped in the lead mine, the rest of the team didn't know where to look, and the pair were forced to try and make their way out themselves. During a cave-in, Chief was separated from Chase and injured by a falling rock, but luckily the rest of the team turned up in time to save him. {{storylink|Little White Lies}}

When Frankie caused problems for the team by filming them, Chief reminded them they had to pretend to be regular robots, and did his best to keep her out of their way. When she followed them into the cave system when they were looking for the source of some earthquakes, the Chief and the Rescue Bots had to save her from a cave-in. {{storylink|Shake Up}}

Chief was disapproving of Cody risking his life in an unstable building. When Cody got hold of a repulsor badge and started acting as a superhero, the Chief eventually had to take the badge off him. Cody used the badge again, leading to it overloading and the Chief and the rest of the team had to extract him from an energy bubble. {{storylink|Rescue Boy}}

{{--}}

==Toys==
===Rescue Bots===
[[Image:RescueBotstoy-CharlieBurnsRescueCutter.jpg|right|thumb|300px|He looks so much younger without the mustache!]]
*'''Chief Charlie Burns & Rescue Cutter''' (2011)
: Chief Charlie Burns comes with a Rescue Cutter [[Rescue Gear]] that can transform into a handheld Robot Tool for ''Rescue Bots'' Optimus Prime. When the buttons on each side are pressed, the blades scissor together.

{{DEFAULTSORT:Burns, Charlie}}

*'''Fire Station Prime''' (Walmart bonus pack, 2011)
: A Walmart-exclusive version of Fire Station Prime came packaged with a bonus Charlie and Cody Burns plus their single-pack accessories.

[[Category: Rescue Bots humans]]

Bulkhead (Prime)

2012-04-19T06:03:46Z

MrBlud: /* Prime cartoon */

{{disambig3|Bulkhead}}
{{faction|autobot|wreckers}}
:''Bulkhead is an [[Autobot]] from the [[Transformers: Prime (franchise)| Prime]] portion of the [[Aligned continuity family]].''
[[Image:Bulkhead-Prime.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Miss me?]]
'''Bulkhead''' looks huge and menacing, but he's only the former. Once you get to know him, he has a gentle soul. He's afraid of hurting things smaller and more fragile than him, but his new [[human]] friend, [[Miko Nakadai]], has helped him grow past that. He has a low tolerance for jerks and bullies, and is quite happy to let people like that stew in the trouble they've made for themselves, but his better impulses—or at least, needling from those around him—always sway him into helping in the end.

{{quote|After a long road trip, feels good to get out of the car, stretch my legs, and kick some tailpipe!|Bulkhead on crushin' Cons|''[[Convoy (episode)|Convoy]]''}}

==Fiction==
===''Exiles''===
Bulkhead was a Wrecker and one of the last Autobots to get on the [[Ark (WFC)|''Ark'']].
{{storylink|Transformers: Exiles}}

===''Prime'' comic===
[[Image:PrimeComicBulkhead.jpg|Right|thumb|200px|]]
Bulkhead was present at the [[Autobot Outpost Omega One|Autobot base]] when [[Cliffjumper (Prime)|Cliffjumper]] and [[Arcee (Prime)|Arcee]] arrived for the first time. {{storylink|Transformers: Prime (comic)|Transformers: Prime}}

===''Prime'' cartoon===
{{voiceactor|[[Kevin Michael Richardson]] (English)|[[Takashi Nagasako]] (Japanese), [[Karl Schulz]] (German), [[Pietro Ubaldi]] (Italian), [[Yeong-Ung Jeong]] (Korean), [[Salvador Serrano]] (Spain-Spanish), [[Salvador Reyes]] (Latin American-Spanish)}}

Originally Bulkhead was a construction worker. {{storylink|Deus ex Machina}} During the [[Great War (Prime)|Great War]], he joined the [[Wrecker]]s, and battled alongside [[Wheeljack (Prime)|Wheeljack]] and many others. {{storylink|Con Job}} He also had rivalry with [[Breakdown (Prime)|Breakdown]]. {{storylink|Deus ex Machina}} Bulkhead left the Wreckers early on in the war to join [[Team Prime]]. {{storylink|Con Job}}

Soon after the Autobots arrived on Earth, Bulkhead accidentally stepped into some power lines. Arcee was impressed with the dance he did as a consequence. {{storylink|Scrapheap (episode)|Scrapheap}}

[[Image:Bulkhead-Primevehicle.jpg|left|thumb|200px|And then [[TakaraTomy|Takara]]'s engineers get a headache.]]
Bulkhead was pulled away from a woodland area to back up [[Cliffjumper (Prime)|Cliffjumper]], but when the team arrived at the battle site, Cliffjumper and the [[Decepticon]]s were gone. Sometime later, Bulkhead scared off some [[Vehicon (Prime)|Vehicon]]s, who were fighting [[Arcee (Prime)|Arcee]] and [[Bumblebee (Prime)|Bumblebee]]. Bulkhead returned to base, and was there when three humans were brought in. Miko questioned him at length about how cool he was. {{storylink|Darkness Rising, Part 1}} During a subsequent visit by Agent [[William Fowler|Fowler]], Bulkhead crushed one of [[Ratchet (Prime)|Ratchet]]'s tools as part of a demonstration, much to his comrade's annoyance. Bulkhead was part of the ultimately unsuccessful mission to retrieve Cliffjumper from a Decepticon [[energon]] mine. After they returned to base empty-handed, Optimus assigned Bulkhead to watch over [[Miko Nakadai]]. {{storylink|Darkness Rising, Part 2}}

[[Image:DarknessRising3_disembulkhead.jpg|right|thumb|250px|''No'', Bulky, the slogan is get some ''nuts''!]]
Miko managed to persuade Bulkhead to do some off-roading on the way back to base. Once there, Optimus and Ratchet left on a mission, placing Arcee in charge. Arcee promptly left to go patrolling with Bumblebee, leaving Bulkhead in charge. During an impromptu visit by Fowler, Bulkhead managed to prevent him reporting the three kids, but when Fowler was subsequently captured by the Decepticons, Bulkhead was compelled to mount a rescue mission. He [[GroundBridge]]d to the ''[[Nemesis (Prime)|Nemesis]]'', only to find the three kids had followed him. {{storylink|Darkness Rising, Part 3}}

[[Image:DarknessRising4-BulkheadandMiko.jpg|left|thumb|250px|Be thankful she didn't do more than heave on your car parts.]]
After trying to make sure the kids were safe, Bulkhead climbed aboard the ''Nemesis'' and began trashing Decepticons before discovering Miko had stowed away inside his chest compartment. Inside the ship, the pair eventually ran into Arcee and Bumblebee, who'd rescued Jack and Raf from some more guards. The three Autobots stuck the kids in a store room while they located Fowler in the brig and chased off [[Starscream (Prime)|Starscream]]. Mission accomplished, they returned to base, where Optimus told off Bulkhead. After Jack decided he was better off without the Autobots in his life, Bulkhead took Miko to visit him. {{storylink|Darkness Rising, Part 4}}

[[Image:DarknessRising5-BulkheadMiko.jpg|thumb|250px|D'awwww.]]
Once the Autobots pinpointed the location of the Decepticon [[space bridge]] in orbit, Optimus, Arcee, Bumblebee and Bulkhead traveled there by GroundBridge, though the height made Bulkhead nervous. They battled hordes of flying Decepticons, until [[Ratchet (Prime)|Ratchet]] figured out a way to destroy the space bridge, and Arcee, Bulkhead and Bumblebee did so while Optimus kept [[Megatron (Prime)|Megatron]] busy. They safely GroundBridged back to Earth moments before the explosion. {{storylink|Darkness Rising, Part 5}}

Bulkhead assisted Miko with her science project, holding up her model of the solar system so she could paint it. Unfortunately Ratchet decided to take over the project, relegating Bulkhead to the role of transport. {{storylink|Masters & Students}}

Bulkhead and Bumblebee brought a strange pod back from the [[Arctic]] with them. It later turned out the pod contained [[Scraplet]]s, which Bulkhead was particularly frightened by, and Miko was amused by him screaming like a little girl as they hunted for the critters. There turned out to be too many for the Autobots to deal with, but after the kids repaired an energon fuel line for the GroundBridge, Bulkhead used himself as bait to draw them through to the Arctic, where they froze. {{storylink|Scrapheap (episode)|Scrapheap}}

[[Image:ConJob-Fistbump.jpg|thumb|300px|left|"Guy love, that's all it is, Guy love, He's mine, I'm his, there's nothing gay about it in our eyes."]]
Bulkhead was overjoyed when Wheeljack arrived on Earth, however Wheeljack's uncharacteristic silence during Bulkhead's war stories made the latter Autobot suspicious. After Bulkhead questioned Wheeljack on the [[Battle of Darkmount Pass]] and Wheeljack got an important detail wrong, the new arrival was unmasked as a Decepticon imposter. The real Wheeljack arrived and he and Bulkhead threw the imposter out via the GroundBridge. Bulkhead turned down Wheeljack's offer to go exploring the galaxy. {{storylink|Con Job}}

[[Image:Convoy-Bulkheadmace.jpg|thumb|300px|"You go on, Bulk, we'll cover the rear."]]
Bulkhead took part in a convoy when Fowler needed transport for a hi-tech [[Dynamic Nuclear Generation System]] device. When the convoy was attacked by [[MECH]], he reluctantly remained in vehicle mode in accordance with Optimus's orders, but when they were attacked by flying Vehicons, the Autobots were forced to use their robot modes anyway. {{storylink|Convoy (episode)|Convoy}}

Bulkhead chastised Miko for neglecting her education, and when an energon trace was detected in [[Greece]], he attempted to use the mission as an educational field trip. Their education was cut short as Bulkhead's old enemy Breakdown arrived and the pair fought. Back at base, he alerted the other Autobots to the [[Energon Harvester]] he'd seen depicted in an ancient fresco, and the device was soon tracked down to a museum. The Autobots surrounded the museum while the kids were sent in to steal the Harvester, and fought [[Knock Out (Prime)|Knock Out]] and Breakdown. The Decepticons got away with the Harvester. Bulkhead went alone to Greece, where he managed to single-handedly defeat Knock Out, Breakdown, and Starscream, destroying the Harvester in the process. {{storylink|Deus ex Machina}}

[[Image:OutHead-BulkheadBreakdown.jpg|thumb|left|300px|Wheeljack is gonna be so jealous.]]
Bulkhead covered poorly for [[Jack Darby|Jack]] and Bumblebee when the pair went street racing, and was forced to go with Arcee to find them. He got to fight Breakdown again, flattening the Decepticon with a lamp post. {{storylink|Speed Metal}} Bumblebee and Bulkhead played basketball together in the base, though Bumblebee's behavior was very odd. Bulkhead, Optimus and Arcee traveled to the Arctic to find a lens the Decepticons had stolen from a telescope in [[Hawaii]], and ended up tangling with a heat ray the Decepticons had built with it. They succeeded in destroying it, though it turned out Megatron had been resurrected in the meantime. {{storylink|Out of His Head}}

Optimus took Bulkhead, Bumblebee and Ratchet to investigate a [[Dark Energon]] reading and found Starscream attempting to resurrect [[Skyquake (Prime)|Skyquake]]. During the following ruckus, the Autobots found the kids had followed them and tried to send them back to base, only for them to disappear in a GroundBridge accident. It was only when Bulkhead spotted a text message on [[Miko's phone]] that Ratchet could engineer a way to get the kids back from the [[shadowzone (dimension)|other dimension]] they were trapped in. {{storylink|Shadowzone (episode)|Shadowzone}}

[[Image:TFPep16DoubleCreatureFeature.jpeg|right|thumb|300px|]]
During an altercation with Breakdown on the [[Kamchatka Peninsula]], Bulkhead was knocked out and Breakdown abducted by MECH. Bulkhead stayed off Optimus's mission to rescue the Decepticon, but Miko persuaded him to go alone. GroundBridging to [[Russia]], Bulkhead forcibly infiltrated the MECH base and rescued Breakdown, though he was forced to pummel both Breakdown and Starscream when the Decepticon jet turned up and ordered Breakdown to destroy Bulkhead. {{Storylink|Operation: Breakdown}} Bulkhead was at the Autobot base when Jack and Arcee brought [[June Darby|Jack's mom]] in to introduce her to everyone. {{storylink|Crisscross}}

[[Image:MetalAttraction-stuck.jpg|left|thumb|250px|]]
Bulkhead and Arcee, inadvertently joined by Miko, investigated a magnetic disturbance. They came across Breakdown and [[Airachnid]] fighting over a [[polarity gauntlet]], and during the battle, Bulkhead and Arcee were magnetically fused together by the device. They followed the Decepticons to an abandoned gas station, where another fight broke out, and the two Autobots came unstuck. Airachnid tried to escape in her helicopter form, but Bulkhead grabbed her and threw her at Breakdown. He and Arcee returned to base triumphantly with the gauntlet. {{storylink|Metal Attraction}}

[[Image:RockBottom-Bulkheadpassion.jpg|right|thumb|300px|]]
Arcee and Bulkhead investigated an [[Stripped energon mine|abandoned energon mine]] with the kids. Bulkhead protected Miko from a cave in, but ended up having to support the ceiling. Miko banged a rock on his foot to attract help, but instead they were found by Starscream. Things looked grim for Bulkhead until Arcee came to his rescue, and the two Autobots and the kids escaped the mine. {{storylink|Rock Bottom}} Bulkhead joined the others in investigating a [[Harbinger|wrecked Decepticon ship]] and found Starscream all webbed up. Offering to defect, Starscream pointed them to the other half of the crashed ship, where they were attacked by Airachnid, wielding an [[Immobilizer|experimental Decepticon weapon]] that froze Bulkhead in his tracks. Bulkhead was locked in position until the Autobots retrieved the weapon and Ratchet used it to unfreeze him. {{storylink|Partners}}

[[Image:TMI-Mikojogsmemories.jpg|thumb|left|300px|This is art!]]
Miko and Bulkhead sneaked into a monster truck rally together. A week or so later, during a mission to secure a [[Cybertronian data cylinder]], Miko accidentally discharged the cylinder into Bulkhead's brain. Though at first Bulkhead seemed fine, he began writing complex equations for synthetic energon, and it rapidly became clear that the cylinder's energy was overwriting his mind. While the other Autobots attempted to secure the cylinder, Miko tried to help Bulkhead retain his memories by taking him to the monster truck track. They were found there by Knock Out and Breakdown, who tried to take Bulkhead's head, but during the attempt, Miko again triggered the energy to discharge from Bulkhead into the sky. Bulkhead was left in a comatose state until Miko managed to wake him with her guitar playing. {{storylink|T.M.I.}}

During an energon shortage, Bulkhead and the other Autobots took part in a number of missions to try to intercept the Decepticon energon shipments. When Ratchet developed [[Synthetic Energon]] and tried it on himself, the medic was amped up enough to knock Bulkhead through a wall. Their medic accompanied them on another mission, but his changes in personality began to concern Bulkhead and the others. After he knocked Bulkhead flying and went off on his own, the other Autobots were forced to track him down before he could damage himself. {{storylink|Stronger, Faster}}

The Autobots attempted to stop the Decepticons stealing a space bridge power supply from a military base. When Raf was gravely injured, Optimus and Bulkhead went on alone, stealthily infiltrating the ''Nemesis'' and Bulkhead bridged back to base with the power supply while Optimus went after Megatron. Bulkhead watched as Ratchet and [[June Darby]] fought to save Raf's life. {{storylink|One Shall Fall}} As the Autobots attempted to rescue Optimus from a zone flooded with Dark Energon, Bulkhead kept Megatron busy while the others pulled Optimus out. Back at base, the Autobots and their human friends puzzled over the natural disasters suddenly plaguing Earth, and discovered that [[Unicron]] resided at the center of the Earth. Bulkhead and the others began investigating the sites of the earthquakes that had struck when the Dark Energon volcano erupted. {{storylink|One Shall Rise, Part 1}}

Bulkhead, Arcee and Bumblebee came to Optimus's aid as he battled stone Unicron avatars. To their great surprise, help came in the form of Megatron, who offered to help them fight Unicron. Together with the Decepticon leader, the Autobots stepped through the GroundBridge into Earth's core. {{storylink|One Shall Rise, Part 2}} Though Bulkhead was hampered by the influence of the Dark Energon, and during their fight against [[Unicron's antibodies]] almost fell from the walkway, they reached Unicron's spark chamber. Bulkhead, Bumblebee and Arcee stayed outside to fend off the antibodies. Following Unicron's defeat, they entered the spark chamber, only for Optimus to fail to recognize them, and they had to GroundBridge back to base without him. {{storylink|One Shall Rise, Part 3}}

The Autobots puzzled over how to get their leader back but made little progress. When Fowler warned them of an attack on a military base, Bulkhead, Bumblebee and Arcee went to try and deal with it, but Knock Out and Breakdown succeeded in getting away with the power source they needed. {{storylink|Orion Pax, Part 1}} Bulkhead and the others scoured the globe for the space bridge, but it wasn't until Ratchet and Bulkhead were contacted by a wounded Starscream that they obtained information on the space bridges location. The Autobots stormed the energon mine housing the space bridge and secured it so that they could send Jack and Arcee to Cybertron. {{storylink|Orion Pax, Part 2}} Ratchet, Bulkhead and Bumblebee monitored Jack's progress from the Earth end of the space bridge. When Megatron arrived to take back control, Bulkhead attacked him and was easily thrown aside, twice. Luckily it all turned out, and Bulkhead and the others returned to base with Optimus Prime restored. {{storylink|Orion Pax, Part 3}}

[[Image:OperationBumblebee2-Forge.jpg|right|thumb|250px]]
Bulkhead and Bumblebee were responding to an ancient Autobot signal separately, but when Bulkhead arrived, he found Bumblebee unable to transform as his [[transformation cog|T-cog]] had been taken. They quickly worked out MECH was responsible. Bumblebee later talked Bulkhead into taking him on another mission, on which they ran into Knock Out and Breakdown. Bulkhead got to fight his arch-nemesis again while Bumblebee chased Knock Out. {{storylink|Operation Bumblebee, Part 1}} He almost had to perform T-cog transplant surgery, but was judged unfit by Ratchet. He did get to go on an artifact retrieval mission, and spent some time hitting Breakdown before getting hold of the [[Forge of Solus Prime]] and using it to knock the Decepticon flying. Unfortunately moments later Bulkhead was bushwhacked by Megatron who got away with the Forge. {{storylink|Operation Bumblebee, Part 2}}

[[Image:LooseCannons Wheeljack works on bomb.jpg|left|thumb|250px]]
Bulkhead was overjoyed when Wheeljack returned to Earth, but when his fellow Wrecker decided to recklessly go after [[Dreadwing (Prime)|Dreadwing]], Bulkhead opted to go along. The encounter ended with Bulkhead a hostage with a bomb on his chest as a lure to draw out Optimus. Though Wheeljack tried to defuse the bomb, Bulkhead opted to go the self-sacrifice route, and was only stopped from doing so by Wheeljack, who had realized Optimus was right. Wheeljack and Optimus forced Dreadwing into defusing the bomb, saving Bulkhead's life. {{storylink|Loose Cannons}}

Bulkhead accompanied Ratchet as they got more information from Starscream. This led to an Optimus-led mission to an abandoned energon mine in [[South America]], where they found Megatron fighting an [[Insecticon (Prime)|Insecticon]]. When the fight was finished, the Autobots surrounded the exhausted Megatron, but were prevented from finishing him off by the arrival of Dreadwing. Though they trashed a bunch of Vehicons, Megatron and Dreadwing escaped them. {{storylink|Crossfire}}

When Fowler was attacked by a truck resembling Optimus, Bulkhead caught his car after it plunged from a bridge. Back at base, they soon established that the truck was a MECH-created clone of Optimus and began searching for the MECH base. Though they located the hideout, [[Nemesis Prime (Prime)|Nemesis Prime]] took them out one by one, and after Optimus dealt with the situation, the Autobots returned to base for repairs. {{storylink|Nemesis Prime (episode)|Nemesis Prime}}
{{--}}

===Titan Magazines ''Prime'' comics===
[[Image:Titan4.1 Ratchet Bulkhead practise.jpg|thumb|left|200px|"I need practise like Optimus needs a face."]]
As Ratchet unveiled the [[Safe]], Bulkhead was unimpressed that he thought they needed more training. He threw himself into it though, deciding that the best defense was to smash everything he could. In doing so, he inadvertently uncovered and activated a nuclear missile which had been hidden in the base. Unimpressed, Optimus ordered him to hold up the ceiling while Ratchet and Raf dealt with the missile's warhead. Afterwards, Ratchet suggested Bulkhead and Raf design a new Safe. {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 4.1|The Safe and the Failsafe}}

Optimus took the other Autobots, including Bulkhead, on a trip to [[Valley of Fire State Park]]. {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 4.2|War Story}}

Bulkhead struggled to decorate a [[Christmas]] tree, while enduring a mocking from Arcee and Jack. When Fowler arrived with the news that the Decepticons had taken over a [[Yamal|nuclear-powered ship]], Bulkhead offered him a "Cybertron-size" mince pie. He and Arcee were left to mind the base with the kids while the other went to deal with the Decepticon problem, and the kids suggested the pair try to find something they had in common. They eventually discovered their mutual love of ice skating, and turned the base into an ice rink. {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 4.3|Ice Breaker}}

Bulkhead played ''[[Invasionauts II]]'' with Raf, until suddenly the game put Raf into a hypnotic trance and made him open the GroundBridge. Bulkhead was sure he'd get blamed for this somehow, and explained to Optimus that it was only a ''minor'' problem, but moments later the Vehicons started coming through. Bulkhead fought them alongside the other Autobots until Raf was able to loop the GroundBridge, sucking the Decepticons back through. {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 4.4|Tinker, Tailor, Gamer, Spy!}}

[[William Fowler|Agent Fowler]] woke Bulkhead with the news that the [[President of the United States]] had been kidnapped. Bulkhead and the rest of the Autobots visited the [[Grand Canyon]] where he and Ratchet protected [[Air Force One]] while the others defeated Starscream and rescued the President. {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 4.6|All the President's 'Bots!}}
{{--}}

===Commercial appearances===
{{voiceactor|[[Kevin Michael Richardson]] (English)}}

Bulkhead was phoned up by the human [[wikipedia:Strawberry Shortcake|Strawberry Shortcake]], who invited him to the Berryfest Princess Parade to have glittery sparkles dumped on him. Unable to get a word in edgewise, he told Optimus that the call was for him. {{storylink|Commercial/Prime|Strawberry Shortcake and Bulkhead}}

Bulkhead and Megatron joined Strawberry and the [[My Little Pony|ponies]] Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash in scatting "[[wikipedia:Deck the Halls|Deck the Halls]]". Bulkhead's extended scat sequence, however, did not find favor among the Autobots or Megatron, causing him to awkwardly laugh it off. {{storylink|Commercial/Prime|The Hub Carolers}} Undeterred, Bulkhead rejoined this multiversal musical grouping in singing "[[wikipedia:Jingle Bells|Jingle Bells]]". {{storylink|Commercial/Prime|The Hub Carolers (Second spot)}}

==Toys==
===Prime: First Edition===
{{anchor|FirstEdition}}
[[Image:Primetoy-BulkheadVoyager.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Let's hope those aren't truck nutz.]]
[[Image:PrimeFEtoy-BulkheadTakaraTomy.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Any color green is good, right?]]
*'''Bulkhead''' (First Edition Voyager, 2011/2012)
**''Number:'' '''002'''
**''Accessories:'' "[[Energon]] battle mace", stand

: Part of the first wave of ''[[Transformers: Prime (toyline)|Prime]]'' "First Edition" Voyager-Class toys, Bulkhead transforms into an SUV. He comes with an "energon battle mace" that can either [[5mm post|peg]] into his hands, or replace one of his hands when either is flipped into his arm, thus switching it out for a wrist peg-hole. These peg-holes have additional sculpted detail matching the [[Character model|animation model]] of Bulkhead's stubby arm-blasters, indicating an undocumented "firearm mode" configuration for the toy's wrists, akin to "First Edition" [[Cliffjumper (Prime)#Toys|Cliffjumper]]'s guns. The mace itself also features a plain peg-hole at the top, and is stored in vehicle mode by pegging it onto the trunk. The patch of clear black [[light-piping]] plastic ([[Gang-molding|gang-molded]] to the rest of his [[Show-accuracy|show-accurate]] clear black parts) on his head is neutered by having his eyes painted, in equally show-accurate light blue. As with all First Edition toys, he features a cardboard stand.

: In an effort for him to fit in his [[packaging]], he is usually mis-transformed: the panel on his back is hinged up to his head, while the wheels connected to his panel-chest, normally splayed out as a pair of "[[Kibble|wings]]" and tabbed into the sides of the back panel, are left folded up and untabbed on his sides. His headlights, normally swiveled and angled up on his chest, are also left untransformed. The soft, black, slotted struts his hood panels are attached to also aren't pegged ''completely'' into the tabs below his front windshield-chest, with the results being that his crotch piece tabs only lightly to his waist, detaches easily, dislodges when the front bumper is hinged forward into the indent on its back, and that many packaged Bulkheads are encountered with their flies open.

: The Japanese [[TakaraTomy]] release of Bulkhead features darker green plastic and paint.

: First Edition Bulkhead never made it to shelves in the United States, forcing US fans to import the Hasbro version from Canada.

{{-}}

===Prime===
{{anchor|Cyberverse}}
[[Image:Cyberverse_commander_bulkhead.jpg|right|thumb|300px|]]
*'''Bulkhead''' (Cyberverse Commander, 2012)
**'''Accessories''': "Battle mace"
: This Cyberverse-scaled Bulkhead is cast partly in translucent plastic so that the toy can be lit using the electronic lights featured in the larger playsets. He also comes with a translucent "battle mace" weapon and a pack-in file card (the card is only present in the US release).

{{-}}{{anchor|Powerizer}}
[[Image:PrimeRIDtoy-BulkheadVoyager.jpg|right|thumb|300px|At this point, one wonders if we're buying a figure with an accessory or an accessory with a figure.]]
*'''Bulkhead''' (Voyager, 2012)
**'''Accessories''': Light-up weapon

: This toy of Bulkhead is a new-mold Voyager Class figure, and, in keeping with the other "Robots in Disguise" Voyager figures, will include a light-up weapon.

{{comingsoontoy}}
{{-}}

==Merchandise==
===Mcdonald's===
[[Image:Primetoy-BulkheadtHappyMeal.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Tastes like cardboard! ...oh, it ''is'' cardboard.]]
*'''Bulkhead''' (Happy Meal, 2012)
:*''McNumber:'' '''5'''
:Happy Meal Bulkhead is a nontransformable offroad vehicle! He comes with three paper discs which can be inserted under his hood. When the roof is pulled back, one is expelled.
{{-}}

==Notes==
[[Image:Bulkheadsmile.jpg|thumb|It's really weird the longer you look at it.]]
* Bulkhead is of course an homage to ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)|Animated]]'' [[Bulkhead (Animated)|Bulkhead]], even using a wrecking ball-like mace.
* When [[Derrick J. Wyatt]] was briefly brought in early in the design process of ''Prime'', Bulkhead was originally intended to be [[Ironhide (Prime)|Ironhide]]. However, as the show evolved, the writers said they realized that they were essentially writing a new Bulkhead, and the character was brought in.<ref>http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/site-updates-18/wtftfw-podcast-episode-123-with-derrick-j-wyatt-now-online-171018/ </ref> Later, on a featurette on the ''Transformers: Prime Season 1'' Blu-Ray, [[Rik Alvarez]] admitted that because of the death of [[Ironhide (Movie)|Ironhide]] in ''[[Transformers: Dark of the Moon (film)| Dark of the Moon]]'', they didn't want to confuse kids with a living Ironhide. <ref>http:www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/transformers-prime-39/transformers-prime-season-1-blu-ray-review-174448/</ref> It's likely that the former story was a cover for the latter, for spoiler reasons.
* For such a big guy, he runs really ''fast''.
* Bulkhead's chin piece is actually a cover for his lower lip, as is evident whenever he smiles.

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Bulkhead''' (バルクヘッド ''Barukuheddo'')
{{--}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* [http://www.hubworld.com/transformers/shows/prime/characters/bulkhead Bulkhead's character page @ Hubworld.com]

[[Category:Prime Autobots]]
[[Category:Wreckers]]

MediaWiki:TFWiki.net 2012 Transformers Hall of Fame Auditions/Entries

2012-02-26T01:19:49Z

MrBlud: /* Poll entries */

This is the page for the '''TFWiki.net Transformers Hall of Fame Auditions''' entries. The rules are as follows:

#You must pick your top five ''Transformers'' characters, from any era. They must actually '''be''' Transformers; sorry, but no humans, non-Transformer aliens, non-Transformer robots, or anything else of the sort are being considered for the Hall of Fame. Any votes for such entities will '''not''' be tabulated. It is the sole discretion of the contest organizers to decide what does and does not count.
#Take your top five list and '''put it in alphabetical order'''. Order of preference does not matter. Feel free to denote the character's franchise of origin, although these distinctions may or may not figure into the final results.
#You '''cannot''' vote for a specific version of Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, Megatron, Starscream, Dinobot, Ironhide, Ratchet, Soundwave, or Waspinator. They've already been inducted!
##You '''also''' can't vote for '''Grimlock, Jazz or Shockwave'''. They're being automatically inducted this year!
#'''However, you CAN vote for ''[[Beast Wars (franchise)|Beast Wars]]'' [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]] or [[Optimus Primal]]! Hasbro considers them separate!'''
#Only one entry per user.

Please put your characters of choice and user name below in the following manner:

*Bulkhead, Emirate Xaaron, Side Swipe, Terrorsaur (BW), X-Brawn --(four tildes)

Poll entry period ends at 3pm on '''[[March 1]], 2012'''. --[[User:Monzo|Monzo]] 12:25, 23 February 2012 (EST)

==Poll entries==


*Arcee, Blackarachnia, Blaster, Perceptor, Rumble --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 12:32, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Barricade, Devastator, Laserbeak, Ravage, Sideways --[[User:LV|LV]] 12:34, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Bluestreak, Hot Rod, Rattrap, Ravage, Wheeljack --[[User:Bluestreak7|Bluestreak7]] 12:41, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Arcee, Hot Rod, Ratbat, Ravage, Skywarp--[[User:Riddlerj|Riddlerj]] 12:44, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Barricade, Bulkhead, Rattrap, Sideways, Sky-Byte [[User:Hooper X|-hx]] 12:58, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Blaster, Hot Rod, Perceptor, Scorponok, Wheeljack {{unsigned|84.13.39.130}}
*Demolishor, Megatron (BW), Scorponok, Sideways, Sky-Byte. [[User:Rayqui|Rayqui]] 13:14, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Cyclonus, Hot Rod, Jetfire, Kup, Rhinox - [[User:Zadok Rox|Zadok Rox]] 13:21, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Kup, Prowl (G1), Scorponok (G1), Sunstreaker, Swindle --[[User:Cattleprod|Cattleprod]] 13:32, 23 February 2012 (EST)
* Blackarachnia, Bulkhead, Hot Rod, Megatron (BW), Swindle --[[User:Detour|Detour]] 13:41, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Arcee, Megatron (BW), Optimus Primal, Ravage, Unicron --[[User:KilMichaelMcC|KilMichaelMcC]] 13:47, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Blackarachnia, Megatron (BW), Optimus Primal, Rampage (BW), Sky-Byte [[User:Interrobang|—Interrobang]] 13:54, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Megatron (BW), Minerva (Masterforce), Optimus Primal, Rattrap, Rhinox {{unsigned|50.10.61.121}}
*Arcee, Blackarachnia, Laserbeak, Prowl, Sky-Byte --[[User:Boy Blunderous|Boy Blunderous]] 14:07, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Blades, Hot Rod, Kup, Megatron (BW), Smokescreen --[[User:Antimatter|Antimatter]] 14:11, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Bruticus, Fortress Maximus, Omega Supreme, Skywarp, Ultra Magnus --[[User:Starfield|Starﬁeld]] 14:19, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Arcee, Blackarachnia, Bulkhead, Rhinox, Sky-Byte --[[User:Abates|abates]] 14:22, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Cliffjumper, Cyclonus, Prowl, Ultra Magnus, Wheeljack --[[User:AutoUIMagnus299|AutoUIMagnus299]] 14:37, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Arcee, Hot Rod, Jetfire, Omega Supreme, Prowl --[[User:Alientraveller|Alientraveller]] 14:57, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Depth Charge, Quickstrike, Rattrap, Rhinox, Wreck-Gar --[[User:Femmes Rule!|Femmes Rule!]] 15:01, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Prowl, Rodimus Prime, Scorponok, Springer, Ultra Magnus --[[User:Magaroja|Magaroja]] 15:19, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Hot Spot, Quickmix, Searchlight, Silverbolt, Steeljaw --[[User:Ironhold|Ironhold]] 15:35, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Astrotrain, Bruticus, Rumble, Skywarp, Thundercracker --[[User:crown of starscream|crown of starscream]] 16:02, 23 Febuary 2012 (EST)
*Bulkhead, Megatron (BW), Prowl, Ravage, Sky-Byte --[[User:Ratbatman|Ratbatman]] 15:36, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Blackarachnia, Paddles, Piano Transformer Guy, Scrounge, Silverbolt (BW)--[[Special:Contributions/184.56.30.163|184.56.30.163]] 15:40, 23
February 2012 (EST))
*Metroplex, Mudflap (movie), Predaking, Sunstorm (G1), Trypticon {{unsigned|94.7.56.6}}
*Blitzwing (Animated), Ironfist, Straxus, Ultra Magnus, Wreck-Gar --[[User:HunterCham|HunterCham]] 16:02, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Jetstorm (BM), Lugnut (Animated), Megatron (BW/BM), Optimus Primal, Roadbuster.--[[Special:Contributions/96.237.141.219|96.237.141.219]] 16:31, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Arcee, Cliffjumper, Fortress Maximus, Optimus Primal, Ultra Magnus--[[User:Spydersix|Spydersix]] 16:36, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Arcee, Bulkhead, Cliffjumper, Jetfire, Prowl [[User:Bobpiecheese|Bobpiecheese]] 16:37, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Arcee, Laserbeak (DOTM), Megatron (BW), Ravage, Unicron. [[Special:Contributions/95.151.0.33|95.151.0.33]] 17:04, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Bulkhead, Fortress Maximus, Ginrai, Prowl, Ultra Magnus --[[User:Ookalf|Ookalf]] 17:06, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Impactor, Ironfist, Overlord, Straxus, Tarantulas --[[User:Rosicrucian|Rosicrucian]][[User Talk:Rosicrucian|Talk]] 18:25, 23 February 2012 (EST)
* Bulkhead, Lugnut, Megatron (BW), Sky-Byte, Sunstorm --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 18:34, 23 February 2012 (EST)
* Blurr, Rattrap, Tarantulas, Thundercracker, Ultra Magnus --[[User:Russellestate|Russellestate]] 19:02, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Blackarachnia, Inferno (BW), Rampage (BW), Sky-Byte, Swindle --[[Special:Contributions/72.187.230.66|72.187.230.66]] 19:08, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Megatron (BW), Nightbeat, Sentinel Prime (Animated), Sky-Byte, Thunderwing--[[Special:Contributions/74.110.211.53|74.110.211.53]] 19:24, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Laserbeak(G1), Optimus Primal, Predaking, Primus, Ultra Magnus (G1).If combiners count.If not then Warpath--[[User:Gamemaster|Gamemaster]] 7:53, 23 February 2012
*Rampage (BW), Rattrap, Scorponok (BW), Tarantualas (BW), Terrorsaur (BW) [[User:Stevo|Stevo]] 19:57, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Cheetor (Beast Era), Ginrai, Megatron (Beast Era), Optimus Primal, Thunderwing --[[User:Sabrblade|Sabrblade]] 20:03, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Bluestreak, Chromia, First Aid, Prowl, Ravage--[[User:al_cielo|al_cielo]] 20:02, 23 February 2012
*Jetfire, Landmine, Sky lynx, Smokescreen, Swoop--[[User:Wwelord|Wwelord]] 20:08, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Botanica (both BW and Animated), Firestar, Moonracer, Perceptor (Animated), Slipstream (Animated). If Botanica doesn't count, put Chromia in her place. --[[User:Firestar_of_Kalis|Firestar_of_Kalis]] 15:22, 23 February 2012 (HST)
*[[Blackarachnia]], [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]], [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]], [[Scourge (RID)|Scourge]], [[Sentinel Prime (DOTM)|Sentinel Prime]] -- [[User:Queso|¡Usa El Queso!]] [[User talk:Queso|Complain here]] 20:42, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Arcee, Bulkhead, Megatron (BW), Sky-Byte, Wheeljack. ----[[Special:Contributions/71.17.207.182|71.17.207.182]] 20:59, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Arcee, Bulkhead, Megatron (BW), Optimus Primal, Skybyte --[[User:FortMax|FortMax]] 20:59, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*[[Barricade]], [[Bulkhead]], [[Hot Rod]], [[Megatron (BW)]], [[Rattrap]] -- [[User:Awa64|Awa64]] 02:34, 25 February 2012 (EST)
* Arcee, Bulkhead, Optimus Primal, Ironhide, Sky-byte --(Dinobotairfeather)
*Jetfire, Megatron(BW), Rampage(BW), Sari Sumdac(She counts), Sentinel Prime [[User:DinoFreakUSA|DinoFreakUSA]] 21:52, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Bulkhead, Prowl, Silverbolt (G1), Thundercracker, Ultra Magnus --[[Special:Contributions/68.147.45.66|68.147.45.66]] 22:19, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Cyclonus (G1), Galvatron (G1), Rampage (BW), Silverbolt (BW), Sky-Byte --[[User:Thylacine 2000|Thylacine 2000]] 22:34, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*[[Arcee]], [[Blackarachnia]], [[Firestar]], [[Moonracer]], [[Sunstreaker]] --[[User:Metroplex|Metroplex]] 22:35, 23 February 2012 (EST)
* Bombshell (G1), Cyclonus (G1), Demolishor (Armada), Scourge (RID), Swerve (G1) --[[User:Thunderweb|Thunderweb]] 23:17, 23 February 2012 (EST)
*Brawn (G1), Megatron (BW), Ravage (SG), Sunstorm (G1), Ultra Magnus (G1) {{unsigned|74.37.238.167}}
*[[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]], [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]], [[Sky-Byte (RID)|Sky-Byte]], [[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Tidal Wave]], [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] --[[User:G1MarvelBlaster|G1MarvelBlaster]] 00:47, 24 February 2012 (EST)
*Barricade, BlackArachnia, Thunderwing, Wheeljack, Wreck-Gar[[Special:Contributions/70.34.147.3|70.34.147.3]] 01:11, 24 February 2012 (EST)
*Lugnut, Rotorstorm, Sixshot, Swindle, Wheeljack --[[User:Apoc|Apoc]] 01:36, 24 February 2012 (EST)
*Prowl, Skywarp, Thundercracker, Ultra Magnus, Wheeljack {{unsigned|N2977R}}
*Bludgeon (G1), Megatron (Beast Wars), Scorponok (G1), Thunderwing (G1), Unicron -- [[User:Dark T Zeratul|Dark T Zeratul]] 04:19, 24 February 2012 (EST)
*Arcee, Bulkhead, Kup, Rattrap, Wreck-Gar --[[User:Cr85747|Cr85747]] 4:47, 24 February 2012 (EST)
*Omega Supreme, Overlord, Ratbat, Sideways, Sky-Byte - [[User:Chris McFeely|Chris McFeely]] 05:25, 24 February 2012 (EST)
*Blades, Cliffjumper, Hot Shot, Rampage(BW), Thundercracker [[User:Wasp-shot23|Wasp-shot23]] 06:53, 24 February 2012 (EST)
*Astrotrain (G1), Blitzwing (G1), Bombshell, Laserbeak (G1), Rumble (G1) --[[User:Flicky1991|Flicky1991]] 09:26, 24 February 2012 (EST)
*Cosmos, Ironfist, Repugnus, Swerve, Tailgate -- JediFlaherty 11:50, 24 February 2012 (EST)
*Arcee, Cheetor, Devastator, Ravage, Sky-Byte -- [[User:Rav|Rav]] 14:51, 24 February 2012 (EST)
*Bulkhead, Laserbeak, Megatron (BW), Sky-Byte, Swindle - [[User:RolonBolon|RolonBolon]] 16:25, 24 February 2012 (EST)
*Bonecrusher, Devastator, Leadfoot, Roadbuster, Sky-Byte --[[User:Atomic Horse|Atomic Horse]] 17:47, 24 February 2012 (EST)
*Arcee, Devastator, Megatron (BW), Omega Supreme, Rattrap --[[User:Endgame|Endgame]] 18:05, 24 February 2012 (EST)
*Arcee(g1),Blitzwing(g1/animated),Bulkhead(animated/prime),Cyclonus(g1),Predaking(g1)--[[User:Bardock12|Bardock12]] 18:11, 24 February 2012 (EST)
*Bludgeon, Overlord, Prowl, Ultra Magnus, Wreck-Gar --[[User:NCZ|NCZ]] 18:47, 24 February 2012 (EST)
*Bulkhead, Crosswise, Hotshot, Vehicon (Prime), Wheeljack [[Special:Contributions/74.90.6.206|74.90.6.206]] 19:06, 24 February 2012 (EST)
*Bulkhead, Hot Shot, Sky-Byte, Ultra Magnus, Unicron {{unsigned|64.121.173.16}}
*Arcee, Barricade, Ironfist, Prowl, Thundercracker --[[User:TrashTalk|TrashTalk]] 01:33, 25 February 2012 (UTC)
*Alpha Trion, Arcee (Prime), Bulkhead, Prowl (Animated), W heeljack -- [[Special:Contributions/134.161.85.66|134.161.85.66]] 00:18, 25 February 2012 (EST)
*Arcee, Cyclonus, Kup, Rodimus Prime, Ultra Magnus--[[User:Starscream0625|Starscream0625]] 00:24, 25 February 2012 (EST)
*Bomb-Burst (G1), Cosmos, Warpath, Wheelie (G1), Wreck-Gar (G1 and Animated) {{unsigned|115.135.229.16}}
*Cliffjumper, Cyclonus, Hot Rod, Kup, Skywarp {{unsigned|98.132.183.140}}
*Megatron (BW), Nightbeat, Rattrap, Skullgrin, Springer - [[User:Danja|Danja]] 10:56, 25 February 2012 (EST)
*Bulkhead, Kup, Megatron (BW), Rattrap, Sky-Byte --[[User:G.B. Blackrock|G.B. Blackrock]] 11:19, 25 February 2012 (EST)
*Arcee, Blitzwing, Hot Rod, Rattrap, Sky-Byte --[[User:TrentTroop|TrentTroop]] 12:04, 25 February 2012 (EST)
*Cyclonus, Galvatron, Megatron (BW), Rodimus Prime, Ultra Magnus --[[Special:Contributions/50.138.134.40|50.138.134.40]] 12:29, 25 February 2012 (EST)
*Hot Shot, Megatron (BW), Optimus Primal, Rodimus, Ultra Magnus --[[User:Amadeus Windfall|Amadeus Windfall]] 12:52, 25 February 2012 (EST)
*Arcee, Hot Rod, Rattrap, Sky-Byte, Swindle -- GR
*Blaster, Megatron (BW), Prowl, Ravage, Skids --[[User:Chip|Chip]] 13:50, 25 February 2012 (EST)
*Arcee,Blackarachnia,Cliffjumper,Megatron(BW),Straxus---Abdullah
*Prowl, Roadbuster, Springer, Soundwave, Thundercracker --[[User:Shafau|Shafau]] 14:07, 25 February 2012 (EST)
*Drift, Laserbeak, Megatron (BW), Thundercracker (G1), Wheeljack. {{unsigned|98.232.210.235}}
*Blurr, Bulkhead, Jetfire, Unicron, Wheeljack --[[User:Andrusi|Andrusi]] 14:51, 25 February 2012 (EST)
*Broadside, Bulkhead, Jetfire, Megatron (BW), Unicron [[User:ShinRa Actual|ShinRa Actual]] 15:49, 25 February 2012 (EST)
*Arcee, Bulkhead, Hot Rod, Megatron (BW), Sky-Byte [[User:MrBlud|MrBlud]] 20:19, 25 February 2012 (EST)



[[Category: TFWiki.net]]

Prowl (G1)/toys

2011-11-15T17:30:05Z

MrBlud: /* Transformers - Mini Bust */

{{picsneeded|many of the toys}}
{{suite}}

[[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] has many toys! All of them are pricks.
==Toys==
===Generation 1===
[[Image:G1Prowl toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|I ain't fallin' for no banana in the tailpipe...]]
* '''Prowl''' (Autobot Car, 1984/1985)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''09'''
**''Accessories:'' "Acid pellet gun", left & right missile launchers, 3 "wire-guided missiles"

: Originally a ''[[Diaclone]]'' "Police Car Fairlady Z", Prowl was one of the original assortment of [[Autobot Cars]] released in 1984. He transforms into a [[Wikipedia:Nissan_280ZX|Datsun 280ZX]] sports car (known in Japan as a "Fairlady Z") decorated in police car livery; the original figure featured the world "Diaclone" on the police badges that decorate his shoulders and chest, but these were naturally removed for the Transformers version of the toy. He is armed in robot mode with a silver-chromed hand-held [[Acid pellet|acid pellet gun]], and two shoulder-mounted missile launchers. The spring-loaded firing mechanism for these launchers was disabled by Hasbro, but remained intact on the [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] release of the figure.

:In 1985, a heat-activated [[rubsign]] was added to the front of Prowl's hood. That same year, his [[:Image:Prowl-Mexico.jpg|Mexican release]] featured a more startling variation: this release of the figure rendered his helmet, arms, and boots black, plus his "POLICE" decals became "POLICIA". There was also a widely available running change [[variant]] (or just factory error) that left out the black paint on his car hood.

:Prowl's toy has been [[Generation 1 reissues|reissued]] as part of the ''[[Classics (Europe)|Classic Heroes]]'' line in 1990, ''[[The Transformers Collection]]'' in 2002, and the ''[[Commemorative Series]]'' in 2003. See below for individual entries on these releases.

: This mold was retooled to create the simultaneously-released [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]], and again for [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/1984/Autobot/Prowl/prowl.htm More information on Prowl at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
{{anchor|ActionMaster}}[[Image:G1toy ActionMasterProwl.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
* '''Turbo Cycle with Prowl''' (Action Blaster Vehicle, 1990)
**''Accessories:'' Turbo Cycle, small cannon, 2 missiles, 2 engine intakes (left & right), shield/gas tank cover

: [[Action Master]] Prowl is a non-transforming action figure whose appearance is styled after his cartoon model, with a few toy-based liberties taken. Like all Action Masters, he can interact with all the line's vehicles and weapons; as part of the "Action Blasters Vehicles" assortment, Prowl came packaged with the [[Turbo Cycle]], which transforms from motorcycle to a gun emplacement.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/1990/Autobot/Prowl/prowl.htm More information on Action Master Prowl at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
[[Image:G1toy ClassicHeroProwl.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
* '''Classic Prowl''' (Classic Heroes, 1990)
**''Accessories:'' "Acid pellet gun", left & right missile launchers, 3 "wire-guided missiles"
:The original Prowl toy was first reissued in Europe alongside several other early Transformers, as part of the "[[Classics (Europe)|Classic Heroes]]" range. He is not entirely identical to the original, however: for reasons unknown, the ''Classics'' release of Prowl features the original ''Diaclone'' labels on his chest and shoulders, with the word "Diaclone" on his police badges, while his forehead crest, previously a pair of stickers, is now painted.
{{-}}
===Beast Wars===
[[Image:Prowl-bw-magnaboss-toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Prick with claws. Gitit, gitit, huh huh huh?]]
*'''Magnaboss''' (Ultra, 1997)
**''Accessories:'' Tail

: Prowl transforms from a lion into a robot, with his cat-butt turning into a "cyber tail claw" weapon. He is able to combine with [[Ironhide (G1)/toys|Ironhide]] and [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]], his package buddies, into [[Magnaboss]]. Prowl transforms into Magnaboss' head.

: This mold was used to make [[Lio Junior]].

:The Magnaboss toy included no information about its three components beyond their names. The character was established by [[IDW Publishing|IDW]] to be Generation 1 Prowl in [[2007]]'s ''[[Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook|Beast Wars Sourcebook]]''.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/1997/Maximal/Prowl/prowl.htm More information on ''Beast Wars'' Prowl at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===Machine Wars===
[[Image:Mwprowl.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Do you have any idea how fast you were going?]]
* '''Prowl''' (Basic, 1997)
**''Accessories:'' Gun (gun body & barrel)

: Sharing a mold with ''[[Machine Wars]]'' [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]], Prowl transforms into a Formula-1 race car, and converts to robot mode with a spring-loaded, one-step transformation. His rifle-halves store in his legs in car mode. He—and the entire ''Machine Wars'' line—was available only at Kay-Bee stores.

: Prowl's usual function is strategist, but, in an ironic twist, in this first non-police car form he's described as chief of security.

: This mold was also used to make ''[[Robots in Disguise (franchise)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Skid-Z (RID)|Skid-Z]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/1997/Autobot/Prowl/prowl.htm More information on ''Machine Wars'' Prowl at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
===The Transformers Collection===
{{anchor|TFC}}[[Image:G1toy_tfc_prowl.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
* '''Prowl''' (2002)
**''ID number:'' '''2'''
**''Accessories:'' "Acid pellet gun", left & right missile launchers, 3 "wire-guided missiles"

:Takara's first reissue of Prowl was the second instalment in their ''[[The Transformers Collection|Transformers Collection]]'' line of reissues, and was mostly identical to the original figure, save for a few small differences: the text on his hip stickers is changed to "2002 08" from the original's "2800 ZP", his rubsign is relocated from its original obtrusive spot at the front of his hood to just below his windshield (winding up on the back of his head in robot mode), and like the ''Classic Heroes'' version, his forehead crest is painted. As with the previous Takara release of the figure, his missile launchers are functional.
{{-}}
===Commemorative Series===
{{anchor|commemorative}}[[Image:G1toy_commemorative_series_prowl.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
* '''Prowl''' (2003)
**''Accessories:'' "Acid pellet gun", left & right missile launchers, 3 "wire-guided missiles"
:Released as part of the fourth wave of Hasbro's [[Toys"R"Us]]-[[exclusive]] [[Commemorative Series]] reissues, Prowl shared all the modifications made to the original toy for Takara's ''Transformers Collection'', and a few more besides. Like his mold-mate Bluestreak, released in the previous wave, Prowl's gun and missiles are cast in unchromed black plastic, and his missile launchers are once again disabled, in lieu of enlarging the missiles to the disproportionate length required [[for safety reasons]] (as was done for several other Commemorative figures). Where his original toy's launchers merely had their springs removed, leaving their trigger mechanisms intact to hold the missiles in place, this figure actually recasts the launchers as solid pieces with no triggers, into which the missiles are simply popped.
::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2003/Autobot/Prowl/prowl.htm More information on Commemorating Series reissue Prowl]''
{{-}}

===Smallest Transforming Transformers===
[[Image:STF Prowl.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Wee-woo-wee-woo-wee-woo.]]
* '''Prowl''' (2003)
**''ID number:'' '''GTF-09'''

: Released in Wave 2 of ''[[Smallest Transforming Transformers]]'', this Prowl is the smallest possible transforming toy based upon the original Prowl toy. He faithfully reproduces the transformation sequence for the most part, but due to parts-cost limitations, he has little articulation, his legs cannot separate and his wheels do not roll.

: This mold was also used to make the ''Smallest Transforming Transformers'' version of [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2004/Cybertron/SmallestProwl/prowl.htm More information on Smallest Transforming Prowl]''
{{-}}

===Alternators/Binaltech===
[[Image:AlternatorsProwl.jpg|right|300px|thumb|You better get a lawyer, son...]]
* '''Prowl''' (Alternator, 2005/2006)
**''Alternator ID number:'' '''16'''
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''BT-15'''
**''Accessories:'' Engine/gun, traffic direction baton aka "Blight Stick"

: ''[[Alternators]]'' Prowl transforms into a fully-licensed 1:24-scale [[wikipedia:Acura_RSX|Acura RSX]] with police lights, opening doors, hood and trunk. His engine becomes a (non-firing) gun, while a clear-plastic nightstick is hidden under his car-mode rear section. He was among the last of the "red box" Alternators, but was included in new "white box" assortments in 2006. The "white box" version of Prowl has additional Acura logos on the rear of the car that the "red box" version did not have.

[[Image:BinaltechProwl.jpg|left|300px|thumb|...you better get a real good one.]]

: For his standard Japanese ''Binaltech'' release, Prowl got a different vehicle mode deco based on a real Japanese police car (the [[Hasbro]] version's deco being based more on the original [[The Transformers (toyline)|''Generation 1'' toy]]), a different spoiler mold, "Type R" rims compared to the ''Alternators'' version's "Type S" rims, right-side steering, a Japanese police cherry blossom emblem instead of an Acura logo, and gray plastic instead of stony-blue. He was also labeled as a "Honda Integra Type-R" on the packaging, the model's make in Japan.

: Multiple reports suggest that at least the ''Binaltech'' version suffers from a [[design flaw]]: The wing mirrors are simply ''glued'' onto the doors for whatever reason, and the glue is not particularly strong. Trying to open a door by pulling on the mirror could likely result in the mirror snapping off.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2005/Autobot/AltProwl/prowl.htm More information on ''Alternators'' Prowl]''
{{-}}

[[Image:Binaltech Blue Prowl toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Prowl on his day off.]]
* '''Prowl Vivid Blue Pearl Edition''' (Binaltech, 2005)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''BT-15'''
**''Accessories:'' Engine/gun, traffic direction baton

: Like [[Jazz (G1)|Meister]], Prowl got two different ''Binaltech'' decos released in equal numbers. The second version, known as Vivid Blue Pearl Prowl, is a civilian version with no police lights, a mostly blue interior, a Honda logo (instead of the cherry blossom emblem) on the grill, and a solid blue car shell. His robot-mode parts remained mostly the same color, however.

: This mold (the Japanese blue Prowl [[variant]], combined with parts from American police Prowl) was used to make ''Alternators'' [[Camshaft (G1)|Autobot Camshaft]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2005/Cybertron/BTProwl/prowl.htm More information on ''Binaltech'' Prowl Vivid Blue Pearl Edition]''
{{-}}

* '''Prowl Satellite Patrol Edition''' (Binaltech "USA Edition", 2005?)
**''Accessories:'' Engine/gun, traffic direction baton

: The [[Hasbro]] version of Prowl, using the Hasbro red box packaging, was supposed to have been released in Japan as an exclusive "[[USA Edition]]" to a satellite TV provider named Takarand. The only notable difference from the Hasbro version was the "Satellite Patrol" (spelled "satillite" in official preview photos) markings on his doors. It is unknown if this toy was ever actually released, however, as Takarand changed owners around the same time.

{{-}}

===Universe (2003)===
*'''Prowl''' (Autobot Spy Changer, 2005)
**''Accessories:'' Gun

: A redeco of the ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Prowl (RID)|Prowl 2]] mold, ''[[Universe (2003 franchise)|Universe]]'' Prowl transforms into a modified Chevrolet Caprice police car with through-axle construction for super-speedy rolling on smooth surfaces. His gun hides as his car mode's tailpipe. Originally only available at Kay-Bee stores in packaging with no sub-line markings, his entire assortment was later repackaged under the ''Universe'' banner and sold through "dollar store" chains like Family Dollar.

: This mold was also used to make ''another'' [[Prowl (Spychanger)|Prowl]] for ''Universe'', who is neither ''Robots in Disguise'' "Prowl 2" ''nor'' Generation 1 Prowl. Confused yet?

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2004/Autobot/SpyProwl/prowl.htm More information on ''Universe'' (2003) Spychanger Prowl]]''

{{-}}

===Universe (2008)===
====Classic Series====
[[Image:Universe 2008 Prowl toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Sticky prick.]]
*'''Prowl''' (Deluxe, 2008)
**''Accessories:'' Gun

: Prowl transforms into a modified [[wikipedia:Nissan_350Z|Nissan 350Z]] similarly to Prowl's appearance in [[IDW Publishing]]'s [[IDW Generation 1 continuity|''Generation 1'' comics]]. Like previous ''Generation 1'' Prowl toys, his paint job is based upon that of a Japanese police car. The [[prototype]] and pre-production versions of Prowl featured a traditional American-style rectangular light bar, but the production toy features a swept-back modern light bar.

: Many buyers have reported that after repeated handling of the toy, the paint on the pieces of Prowl molded from translucent plastic (his doors, his roof, the sides of his hood and front bumper) quickly becomes sticky to the touch and begins to smear and rub off. Presumably, this owes something to the plastic and paint failing to bond properly, although what allowed the toy to leave factories with this flaw undetected is unknown. Sticky paint has not been reported on ''every'' Prowl; there is some suggestion that temperature and humidity play a role in whether or not it occurs. It has been suggested that the problem only affects the first run of Prowl figures, but sticky figures have been purchased at retail when the line was launched in Europe just over a month after its American debut. Also, on a lot of the UK release toys, all the pieces that are molded white plastic have a very faint pink tinge.

: This mold was redecoed for ''[[Transformers Timelines (toyline)|Timelines]]'' [[Streetwise (G1)|Streetstar]] and retooled to make ''Universe'' [[Bluestreak (G1)|Silverstreak]] and [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] and ''Timelines'' [[Rapido]]. The lightbar was also used for ''Universe'' [[Ratchet (G1)#Universe (2008)|Ratchet]] and ''[[Transformers: Generations|Generations]]'' [[Red Alert (G1)#Generations|Red Alert]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2008/Autobot/TFUProwl/prowl.htm More information on ''Universe'' (2008) Prowl]''
{{-}}

===Henkei! Henkei!===
[[Image:Henkei Prowl toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Shiny prick.]]
*'''Prowl''' (Deluxe, 2008)
**''Japanese ID number'': '''C-08'''
**''Accessories:'' Gun

: The Japanese ''[[Henkei! Henkei! (toyline)|Henkei! Henkei!]]'' Prowl is a retool and partial redeco of ''Universe'' Prowl, changing the swept-back American light bar with a more rounded Japanese lightbar, and having a more consistent coating of white paint. He also features [[Vacuum metallizing|vacuum-metallized]] silver parts such as his gun, Acid Blasters and his vehicle mode spoiler. Universe Prowl's orange Autobot symbol was changed to the more standard red for the Henkei release.

:Soon after his release, some customers have reported that ''Henkei'' Prowl suffers from the same sticky paint problem that plagued many ''Universe'' Prowls.

{{-}}

===Titanium Series===
[[Image:Titaniumtoy ww prowl.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''War Within Prowl''' (2008)
**''Accessories:'' Display stand

: This version of Prowl transforms into a Cybertronic hovercar, based on his design from the [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] ''[[Transformers: The War Within|The War Within]]'' comics. Initially canceled due to the end of the Titanium Series line, Hasbro eventually released this figure as a Toys "R" Us [[exclusive]] in the fall of 2008.

: The vehicle mode as pictured on the packaging for this toy contains two transformation errors (compared to the instructions). His toes (sticking up at the rear of the vehicle) should be folded back, revealing small red and blue emergency lights. Also, the left and right sides of the vehicle should be slid outwards, turning them into nacelles rather than integral parts of the main body.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2008/Autobot/TitProwl/prowl.htm More information on ''Titanium Series'' War Within Prowl]''
{{-}}

===Transformers (2010)===
{{anchor|2010legend}}[[Image:TF2010_Legends_G1Prowl.jpg|thumb|300px|Tiny prick (tee-hee)]]
*'''Prowl''' (Legends Class, 2011)

:Part of the Reveal the Shield subline, Legends Prowl transforms into a police car resembling his 2008 Universe toy with a rubsign on the hood. As a robot he features limited articulation, and no painted eyes.

:This mold, without the lightbar, was used to make ''[[Chronicle]]'' [[Bluestreak (G1)|Streak]]. The instruction line art on the back of Prowl's packaging gave a hint of this by showing a robot mode with no lightbar on the back.
{{-}}

==Merchandise==
===Transformers Milk Caramel===
[[Image:TFcaramel_prowl.jpg|right|thumb]]
*'''Prowl''' (1985)
:A soft rubber figurine—known in Japan as a ''keshigomu''— of Prowl was released as part of the second wave of [[Kabaya]]'s ''[[Transformers Milk Caramel]]'' [[candy toy]] range. He came packaged with chocolate-covered caramel candies, and was available in red, blue and yellow.

===Transformers Choco===
*'''Prowl''' (1985)
:A solid-color, snap-together model kit of Prowl was released by Kabaya as part of their ''[[Transformers Choco]]'' line of candy toys. It was available in various colors, and came with candy-coated chocolates.
{{-}}

===Decoy===
[[Image:Decoy_prowl.jpg|right|thumb]]
*'''Cybertron Hero Collection 22''' (multi-pack, 1986)
:Prowl was among the many characters rendered by [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] as part of their series of 1.5" ''keshigomu'' figurines. Like all the Autobots in the series, Prowl was molded in soft red rubber, and 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. Prowl was available as part of a 22-piece box set of Autobot figures, and later, in a peach coloration randomly packed as part of various other box sets.

*'''Prowl''' (1987)
**''Decoy number:'' '''19'''
:The 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, Prowl was a randomly-chosen pack-in available with the carded [[Throttlebot]]s, [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]], [[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobots]] and [[Technobot (G1)|Technobots]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/1986/Autobot/Decoys/Prowl/prowl.htm More information on Decoy Prowl at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===Hard Hero===
[[Image:HardHero Prowl bust.JPG|right|200px|thumb|Who needs legs when one has LOGIC??]]
*'''Prowl''' (2002)

:A cold-cast porcelain bust labelled as number 3 in [[Hard Hero]]'s series of ''Transformers'' busts, Prowl is six inches tall with a seven-inch wide "wingspan" and wielding his acid pellet gun in his left hand. 100 copies of this product were signed by sculptor [[Jason Ray]].

{{-}}

===Attacktix===
[[Image:Tf2-16-400.jpg|right|150px|thumb|I got a big... gun.]]
*'''Prowl''' (Booster, <strike>2007</strike>)
**''Accessories:'' Missile

: Planned to be in part of the Series 2 wave of ''[[Attacktix]]'', Prowl is a Captain class unit with the special ability to stun an opposing player unit. His sculpt is based upon his Generation 1 cartoon model with some additional details. His weapon is a '''hugely''' oversized version of his rifle, capable of firing a large silver projectile.
{{canceledattacktix}}
{{-}}

===3D Battle-Card Game===
[[Image:3DBattleCard_Prowl.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Paper prick.]]
*'''Prowl''' (2007)

: A 25-point "uncommon" character in the [[3D Battle-Card Game]]'s "Energon Wars" expansion, Prowl "transforms" into a black and white police car that vaguely resembles a Nissan Z. He uses the same parts layout as [[Transformers (2007)|Movie]] [[Barricade (Movie)|Barricade]], [[Bumblebee (Movie)|Bumblebee]], [[Swerve (Movie)|Swerve]] and [[Mirage (Movie)|Mirage]].

{{-}}

===Transformers - Mini Bust===
[[Image:Prowl statue.jpg|right|200px|thumb|The Prowl 2 of Prowl busts.]]
* '''Prowl''' (Diamond Select, 2009)

:Released by Diamond Select Toys in 2009, Prowl was sculpted by [[Mark Wong]] of [[Art Asylum]] and limited to 500 pieces. Prowl, along with his "brothers" [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] and [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]], is exclusive to online retailer Toyrocket.com. The bust features Prowl's acid pellet gun and twin missile launchers. The missile launchers can be attached via magnets on either side of his head.
{{-}}

===Robot Heroes===
[[Image:Robotheroesprowllaserbeak.jpg|right|300px|thumb|He's smiling—must have his DVDs alphabetized.]]
*'''Prowl and Laserbeak''' (2009)

:''[[Robot Heroes (toyline)|Robot Heroes]]'' Prowl would have been a happy little non-transforming figure. The figure has the standard swiveling head and arms, and in a bizarre sculpting oddity, has a wheel well on one foot but not the other. He would have come in a two-pack with [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]], but the Generation 1-themed portion of the ''Robot Heroes'' line was canceled before they saw retail release. Several unpackaged samples have made it into the hands of collectors, however.

{{canceledtoy}}

===Mighty Muggs===
[[Image:MightyMuggs_Prowl.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Adowable pwick.]]
*'''Prowl''' (2010)
:''Accessories:'' Gun

: This [[super-deformed]], non-transformable Prowl figure mostly uses the standard [[Mighty Muggs]] body template, and features same door-wings molds as [[Jazz (G1)/toys|Jazz]]. He has swivel joints in his neck and arms and comes with his trademark acid pellet gun. Prowl was originally meant to be released in the fourth wave of Mighty Muggs Transformers, but the Transformers section of the toyline was canceled before the wave was released. The toy was eventually made available as an exclusive at San Diego Comic-Con 2010.

{{-}}

==Notes==
* Prowl's ''[[Diaclone]]'' predecessor also came with additional, optional stickers that would identify him as being part of the police forces from existing Japanese cities, namely Tokyo, Sapporo, Sendai, Osaka and Fukuoka. The original ''Transformers'' instruction booklet shows a visible Diaclone label sheet, complete with these optional stickers, which did not make it to the final product.
* ''Machine Wars'' Prowl's card-art is actually an altered version of the art for the ''[[Generation 2 (toyline)|Generation 2]]'' [[Laser Rod]] [[Jolt (G2)|Jolt]].
* [[Transmetal 2]] [[Prowl II|Prowl]] may ''possibly'' be the same spark as the Generation 1 character reincarnated...though the [[Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook|IDW series]] makes this REALLY complicated. ''Urgh''.
* At [[OTFCC 2004]], Hasbro stated that there was no Prowl ''Alternators'' toy in the works, but some other emergency vehicle (which got a chorus of boos).
* The Acura RSX ''[[Alternators]]'' mold was originally supposed to be [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]], with a different head sculpt. Eventually, however, it was decided to release the toy as Prowl instead, even though the Subaru Impreza sculpt's robot mode had more resemblance to Prowl and the Acura RSX sculpt's robot mode had more resemblance to Red Alert. Control drawings of the figure with the originally intended Red Alert head sculpt can be found in the Japanese ''[[Transformers Collection 2007]]'' book, among other places.

[[Category:3D Battle-Cards]]
[[Category:Action Masters]]
[[Category:Alternators Autobots]]
[[Category:Beast Wars Maximals]]
[[Category:Classics Autobots]]
[[Category:Combiners]]
[[Category:Decoys]]
[[Category:Generation 1 Autobots]]
[[Category:Henkei! Henkei! Autobots]]
[[Category:KB Toys exclusives]]
[[Category:Machine Wars Autobots]]
[[Category:Robot Heroes]]
[[Category:Spy Changers]]
[[Category:Transformers (2010) Autobots]]
[[Category:Universe (2008)]]

Dark of the Moon: The Album

2011-06-14T04:29:13Z

MrBlud: /* Tracks */

{{picsneeded}}
{{disambig2|the album of contemporary hard rock music|the album of orchestrated music actually in the movie|Dark of the Moon: The Score}}
{{album
|series=''Transformers: Dark of the Moon — The Album''
|image=
|caption=
|label=[[Warner Bros.]]
|releasedate=[[June 14]], [[2011]]
|prodnumber=
|asin=B00535BZKG (Download) B004XKR6NM (CD)
|prev=Revenge of the Fallen: The Score
|next=Dark of the Moon: The Score
}}

'''''Transformers: Dark of the Moon — The Album''''' is an album containing songs from or inspired by ''[[Dark of the Moon (film)|Transformers: Dark of the Moon]]''. It will be released by Warner Bro. on June 14, 2011.

==Tracks==
*1. "Iridescent" — [[Linkin Park]]
*2. "Monster" — [[Paramore]]
*3. "The Only Hope for Me is You" — [[My Chemical Romance]]
*4. "Faith (When I Let You Down)" — [[Taking Back Sunday]]
*5. "The Bottom" — [[Staind]]
*6. "Get Thru This" — [[Art of Dying]]
*7. "All That You Are" — [[Goo Goo Dolls]]
*8. "Head Above Water" — [[Theory Of A Deadman]]
*9. "Set The World On Fire" — [[Black Veil Brides]]
*10. "Alive & Wake" (Remix) — [[Skillet]]
*11. "Just Got Paid" — [[Mastodon]]

==Other versions==
The iTunes Deluxe version includes the exclusive tracks:
*12. "Many Of Horror" — [[Biffy]]
*13. "The Pessimist" — [[Stone Sour]]
*14. "Gate 21" — [[Serj Tankian]]

The Game Stop version of the album contains the exclusive tracks:
*12. "Lifelong Dayshift" — [[Middle Class Rut]]
*13. "Graveyard Dancing" — [[D.R.U.G.S.]]

{{stub}}

[[Category:Albums]]
[[Category:Dark of the Moon media]]

Ratchet (Universe)

2011-04-29T07:55:54Z

MrBlud: /* Notes */

{{factions|autobot}}

{{disambig3|Ratchet}}
:''Ratchet is an [[Autobot]] from an unknown continuity drawn into the [[Universe (2003 franchise)|Universe]] portion of the [[Generation 1 continuity family]].''

[[Image:Ratchettfu.jpg|right|300px|thumb|"Now cough."]]

Unlike his alternate universe [[Ratchet (G1)|counterpart]], '''Ratchet''''s patients have a problem relating to him outside of his role as a doctor. Quiet and modest, he's not much of a social being. However, he's the best there is at what he does. You'd have to look long and hard to find a better surgeon than Ratchet. He often performs this duty at the risk of his own personal exhaustion. Ratchet is dedicated solely to his work.

==Fiction==
===''Universe'' comic===
[[Image:OasisResearchAndDevelopmentFacility.jpg|left|thumb|200px|Why did I invite everyone to come in and watch?]]

Ratchet is one of countless Transformers who had been pulled from his timestream and imprisoned within the [[Cauldron]] arena inside the shattered remains of [[Unicron]]. When [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] and [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]] managed to arrange a prison break, Ratchet was part of the group that managed to flee. For uncertain reasons, he was not automatically returned to his own universe as were most of the freed prisoners. Rather, he found himself on the [[technorganic]] [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] that Silverbolt, Trailbreaker, and their rescuer [[Optimus Primal]] called home. It was suggested that he may have been needed in this new timeline for a reason, as [[Ratchet (G1)|this universe's Ratchet]] was, in the past, a great healer.

Though distressed and confused at this turn of events, Ratchet quickly got to work on [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]], attempting to find a way to remove the [[Unicron virus]] that had infected the Transformers who had been sent into combat within the Cauldron. However, the virus was proving tougher and quicker than he was. {{storylink|Homecoming (issue)|Homecoming}}
{{--}}

==Toys==
===Universe (2003)===
[[Image:TFU03-toy_Ratchet.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Understandably, many of Ratchet's patients find his hacksaw arm somewhat... unsettling.]]
*'''Autobot Ratchet''' (Deluxe, 2003)
**''Accessories:'' Blade-missile, cannon-missile, bumper-knuckleduster

: Ratchet is a [[redeco]] of the ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' Deluxe [[X-Brawn]] toy, transforming into an emergency-response Mercedes-Benz ML320 SUV with opening doors and hood. He has a spring-loaded missile launcher in his right arm; the running boards on each side of his vehicle mode are attached to his missiles. These missiles can peg onto his backpack or biceps for storage purposes in robot mode, or be held in his over-sized left hand by the rails. His front bumper-guard detaches to become a knuckleduster he can hold as well. All of the emergency equipment (including his sirens) are merely [[tampograph]]ed onto his roof instead of being newly sculpted parts.

: [[:Image:Universe2003 Ratchet toy.jpg|Hasbro stock photography of the toy]] shows him with white "Emergency" lettering, but the final retail release uses black letters.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2003/Autobot/AutobotRatchet/ratchet.htm More information on Ratchet at TFU.info]''
{{--}}

==Notes==
* Ratchet and [[Inferno (BW)|Inferno]] were released with the "sub-line" name "Machine Robot Rescue" printed on their cards in a fairly blatant attempt by [[Hasbro]] to prevent rival toy company [[Bandai]] from marketing one of their Japanese [[wikipedia:Machine_Robo_Rescue|transforming robot toy lines]] in the US under that name. Whether or not this was ultimately necessary is debatable, as the contested line was never brought to the US.

* [[Glen Hallit]] has said that this Ratchet was from a ''[[Robots in Disguise (franchise)|Robots in Disguise]]'' universe, but [[authorial intent|there's nothing in published fiction to support it]].

* The Ratchet toy was apparently originally intended as an upgrade for [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]], explaining Trailbreaker's presence in the [[Universe (2003 comic)|''Universe'' comics]] alongside [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] and [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]]. However, possibly due to [[trademark]] reasons, the plans for "Trailbreaker" were dropped, and the X-Brawn redeco became a different character with a different deco.

[[Category:Children of Primus]]
[[Category:Medics]]
[[Category:Universe Autobots]]

MediaWiki:TFWiki.net 2011 Transformers Hall of Fame Auditions/Entries

2011-03-31T20:07:29Z

MrBlud: /* Poll entries */

This is the page for the '''TFWiki.net Transformers Hall of Fame Auditions''' entries. The rules are as follows:

#You must pick your top five ''Transformers'' characters, from any era. They must actually '''be''' Transformers; sorry, but no humans, non-Transformer aliens, non-Transformer robots, or anything else of the sort are being considered for the Hall of Fame. Any votes for such entities will '''not''' be tabulated. It is the sole discretion of the contest organizers to decide what does and does not count.
#Take your top five list and '''put it in alphabetical order'''. Order of preference does not matter. Feel free to denote the character's franchise of origin, although these distinctions may not figure into the final results.
#You '''cannot''' pick a specific version of Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, Megatron, Starscream, Dinobot, Ironhide, Ratchet, or Soundwave. They've already been inducted or soon will be!
#Only one entry per user.

Please put your characters of choice and user name below in the following manner:

*Bulkhead, Emirate Xaaron, Side Swipe, Waspinator, X-Brawn --(four tildes)

Poll entry period ends '''[[April 6]], 2011'''. --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 14:44, 28 March 2011 (EDT)

==Poll entries==

* Grimlock, Hot Shot, Ravage, Shokaract, Waspinator --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 14:46, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Grimlock, Laserbeak, Omega Supreme, Springer, Waspinator --[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 14:51, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Arcee, Bludgeon, Hot Rod/Rodimus Prime, Jazz, Prowl --[[User:Detour|Detour]] 14:54, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Barricade, Devastator, Laserbeak, Ravage, Sideways --[[User:LV|LV]] 14:54, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Blitzwing, Ironfist, Straxus, Waspinator, Wreck-Gar --[[User:HunterCham|HunterCham]] 14:57, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Blaster, Nightbeat, Perceptor, Shockwave, Wheeljack --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 14:58, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Arcee, Grimlock, Laserbeak, Ravage, Wreck-Gar --[[User:Wednesday|Wednesday]] 14:59, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Blackarachnia, Laserbeak, Sentinel Prime, Ultra Magnus, Wreck-Gar --[[User:Monty Prime|Monty Prime]] 15:02, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Battletrap, Jazz, Kup, Rhinox, Skywarp -- [[User:Zadok Rox|Zadok Rox]] 15:01, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Grimlock, Hot Rod, Laserbeak, Ultra Magnus, Unicron -- [[User:Thecrookedman|Thecrookedman]] 15:07, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Arcee, Jazz, Ravage, Shockwave, Skywarp -- [[User:Riddlerj|Riddlerj]] 15:07, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Buzzsaw, Megatron (BW), Ravage, Sideways, Waspinator --[[User:FortMax|FortMax]] 15:09, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Rampage (Beast Wars), Strika, Tarantulas, The Fallen, Waspinator -- [[User:Darth Shadow 91|Darth Shadow]] 19:19, 28, March 2011 (EDT)
* Chromedome, Midnight Express, Override (Cybertron), Star Saber (Victory), Ultra Magnus (RiD) --[[User:Lonegamer78|Lonegamer78]] 15:11, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Bruticus, Dirge, Grimlock, Rhinox, Tracks -- [[User:Lumpy|Lumpy]] 15:11, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Grimlock, Lugnut, Sentinel Prime, Sky-Byte, Waspinator --[[User:Dan|Dan]] 15:14, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Jazz, Nightbeat, Shockwave, Skids, Springer -- [[User:Danja|Danja]] 15:15, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Grimlock, Nightbeat, Prowl, Rhinox, Shockwave --[[User:Nu-Priest|Nu-Priest]] 15:21, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Grimlock, Hot Rod, Nightbeat, Scorponok, Shockwave - [[User:Starfield|Starfield]] 15:22, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Blackarachnia, Jetstorm (BM), Rampage (BW), Tarantulas, Waspinator [[User:Interrobang|--Interrobang]] 15:27, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Blaster, Grimlock, Rhinox, Scorponok, Tarantulas [[User:Chip|Chip]] 15:31, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Arcee, Grimlock, Jazz, Shockwave, Waspinator --[[User:KilMichaelMcC|KilMichaelMcC]] 15:32, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Bulkhead (Animated/Prime), Lugnut (Animated/G1), Megatron (Beast Wars), Nightbeat (G1), Waspinator (Beast Wars) --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 15:49, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Arcee, Bludgeon, Grimlock, Hot Rod/Rodimus, Jazz --[[User:Trixter|Trixter]] 15:59, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Arcee, Hot Rod (G1), Kup, Slog, Tarantulas -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 16:02, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Hot Rod/imus, Jazz, Prowl, Sideways, Wheeljack -- [[User:TCBot|TCBot]] 16:05, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Arcee, Bulkhead, Rhinox, Shockwave, Sky-Byte --[[User:Abates|abates]] 16:10, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]], [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]], [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]], [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]], [[Sky-Byte (RID)|Sky-Byte]] --[[User:G1MarvelBlaster|G1MarvelBlaster]] 16:28, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Arcee, Grimlock, Jazz, Optimus Primal, Ravage -- [[User:SFH|SFH]] 16:37, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Lugnut, Rotorstorm, Signal Lancer, Sixshot, Waspinator --[[User:Apoc|Apoc]] 16:48, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Ironfist, Kup, Scorponok (G1), Sunstreaker, Swindle -- [[User:Cattleprod|Cattleprod]] 16:52, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Devastator, Grimlock, Omega Supreme, Primus, Shockwave -- [[User:Alientraveller|Alientraveller]] 16:54, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Barricade, Flamewar, Prowl, Swindle, Wildrider -- [[User:Nitrostreak|Nitrostreak]] 16:56, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Barricade, Impactor, Rattrap, Tarantulas, Waspinator [[User:Hooper X|-hx]] 17:03, 28 March 2011 (EDT) (can I vote AGAINST Shockwave?)
* Barricade, Inferno (BW), Shockwave, Tarantulas, Waspinator --[[User:Gizen|Gizen]] 17:26, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Arcee, Blackarachnia, Grimlock, Perceptor, Shockwave --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 18:10, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Grimlock, Hot Rod/Rodimus Prime, Rattrap, Shockwave, Waspinator --[[User:NicholasPrime|NicholasPrime]] 18:15, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Arcee, Bulkhead, Grimlock, Shockwave, Waspinator --[[User:Bobpiecheese|Bobpiecheese]] 18:33, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Galvatron, Ravage, Shockwave, Silverbolt (BW), Sky-Byte --[[User:Thylacine 2000|Thylacine 2000]] 18:54, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Barricade (Movie), Blitzwing (Animated), Devastator (G1 or Movie), Magnaboss, Shockwave (Any)[[User:KrytenKoro|KrytenKoro]] 23:21, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Hot Rod(G1), Jazz (Animated),Omega Supreme (WFC),Springer (G1), Ultra Magnus (G1) --FranciscanAutobot - 0:20, 29 March 2011 (EDT)
* Alpha Trion, Grimlock, Ratbat, Ravage, Waspinator - [[User:MaliciousHero|MaliciousHero]] 23:53, 28 March 2011 (EDT)
* Blitzwing, Shockwave, Sideways, Swindle, Waspinator ~Gearshift (logged out)
* Blackarachnia, Jazz, Sentinel Prime (Animated), Tarantulas, Waspinator -- [[User:Karhukjnsi|Karhukjnsi]] 05:48, 29 March 2011 (EDT)
* Grimlock, Jazz, Scorponok, Shrapnel, Waspinator [[User:Blackjack|Blackjack]] 06:18, 29 March 2011 (EDT)
* Blades, Gears, Punch/Counterpunch, Smokescreen (G1), Swerve [[User:Antimatter|Antimatter]] 06:29, 29 March 2011 (EDT)
* Grimlock, Hot Rod/Rodimus Prime, Jazz, Laserbeak, Skywarp - [[User:Poweredconvoy|Poweredconvoy]] 07:14, 29 March 2011 (EDT)
* Hot Spot, Mindwipe, Searchlight, Silverbolt, Quickmix, Windcharger - [[User:Ironhold|Ironhold]] 09:49, 29 March 2011 (EDT)
* Bulkhead (Animated/Prime), Ravage, Scrounge, Swindle, Waspinator --[[User:Awa64|Awa64]] 11:49, 29 March 2011 (EDT)
* Astrotrain, Devastator (G1), Jazz, Ultra Magnus (RID), Wheeljack (G1) [[Special:Contributions/68.147.45.66|68.147.45.66]] 11:57, 29 March 2011 (EDT)
* Jazz, Megatron (BW), Prowl, Swindle (Animated), Waspinator - [[User:Timmyformers0001|Timmyformers0001]] 29 March 2011
* Blackarachnia (Beast Era), Cheetor (Beast Era), Ginrai, Megatron (Beast Era), Optimus Primal. -- [[User:Sabrblade|Sabrblade]] 13:06, 29 March 2011 (EDT)
* Bulkhead(Animated), Optimus Primal, Shockwave, Swindle, Waspinator (BW) --[[User:Sunjumper|Sunjumper]] 13:41, 29 March 2011 (EDT)
* Blackarachnia (Beast Era), Jetstorm (Beast Machines), Rampage (ROTF), Tarantulas (Beast Era), Waspinator (Beast Era) -- [[User:MadmanFoidart|MadmanFoidart]] 13:47, 29 March 2011 (EDT)
* Grimlock (G1), Jazz(G1), Shockwave(G1), Ultra Magnus (G1), Wheeljack (G1).--[[User:Primo|Primo]] 15:25, 29 March 2011 (EDT)
* Arcee, Grimlock (G1), Megatron (BW), Ravage, Waspinator -- [[User:Shellspark|Shellspark]] 16:03, 29 March 2011 (EDT)
* Cheetor, Jetstorm (BM), Prowl, Shockwave, Waspinator --[[User:LioRC|LioRC]] 16:29, 29 March 2011 (EDT)
* Hot Rod/Rodimus, Ironfist, Powerdasher(s), Sari Sumdac, Waspinator --JediFlaherty
* Grimlock, Hot Rod/Rodimus, Prowl, Ultra Magnus, Waspinator --[[User:Andrusi|Andrusi]] 23:01, 29 March 2011 (EDT)
* Blackarachnia, Grimlock, Hot Shot, Vector Prime, Waspinator -- [[User:Fortress Minimus|Fortress Minimus]] 09:16, 30 March 2011 (EDT)
* Jazz, Sideswipe, Skywarp, Sunstreaker, Thundercracker -- [[User:musicalrose911|musicalrose911]] 10:14, 31 March 2011 (EDT)
* Arcee, Blackarachnia, Optimus Primal, Ravage, Waspinator --[[User:JW|JW]] 11:17, 30 March 2011 (EDT)
* Bulkhead, Grimlock, Hot Rod/Rodimus, Prowl, Waspinator --[[User:Secretcode|Secretcode]] 12:29, 30 March 2011 (EDT)
*Arcee (G1), Elita One (G1), Prowl, Sideburn (Robots in Disguiuse), Swindle--[[User:TFGirlMary|TFGirlMary]] 13:46, 30 March 2011 (EDT)
*[[Grimlock]], [[Rampage (BW)]], [[Sari Sumdac]],[[ Tarantulas]], [[Waspinator]]--[[User:DinoFreakUSA|DinoFreakUSA]] 16:30, 30 March 2011 (EDT)
* Cheetor(BW), Megatron (BW), Optimus Primal, Rattrap, and Waspinator [[User:Optimalgirl|Optimalgirl]] 17:46, 30 March 2011 (EDT)
* Jazz(G1), Jetfire(G1), Prowl(G1), Rampage(BW),Ultra Magnus(RID). [[User:Astrotrain85|Astrotrain85]] 20:57, 30 March 2011 (EDT)
* Bulkhead (Prime), Inferno (G1), Sideswipe (G1), Sky-Byte (RID), Straxus (G1) --[[User:NCZ|NCZ]] 20:26, 30 March 2011 (EDT)
* Impactor, Jhiaxus, Liege Maximo, Scrounge, Straxus --[[User:Rosicrucian|Rosicrucian]][[User Talk:Rosicrucian|Talk]] 23:23, 30 March 2011 (EDT)
* Ratbat, Ravage, Straxus, Swindle, Waspinator - [[User:Strangefour|Strangefour]] 00:48, 31 March 2011 (EDT)
* Grimlock, Omega Supreme, Quickstrike (BW), Ravage, Waspinator --H. Jameel al Khafiz

* Grimlock, Jazz, Prowl, Rattrap, Ultra Magnus --[[User:MrBlud|MrBlud]] 16:07, 31 March 2011 (EDT)

[[Special:Contributions/216.151.95.152|216.151.95.152]] 08:20, 31 March 2011 (EDT)


[[Category: TFWiki.net]]

Optimus Prime (G1)/merchandise

2010-11-16T01:24:29Z

MrBlud: /* Hard Hero */

{{suite}}

'''Optimus Prime''' is a bit of a shill.
==Stamp Bot==
[[Image:OptimusPrime-StampBot-1984.JPG|right|200px|thumb|Truck stamp is cool!]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (1984)

:Made by HG Toys, Stamp Bot Optimus Prime is a small, non-poseable figurine of Optimus Prime based on his toy with a rubber stamp on the base, and a cap with a felt "floor" that was soaked in ink. The stamp made an image of Optimus Prime's cab mode.
{{-}}

==Knitting Pattern==
[[Image:Transformers-knitting-pattern.JPG|right|thumb|180px|Here to transform your sweater into something that will get your ass kicked.]]
* '''Wendy DK 3015''' (1984?)
: Produced by U.K. company Wendy DK and designed by Joy Gammon, this pamphlet contained patterns for two ''Transformers''-themed sweaters, one featuring Optimus Prime in robot mode, one featuring Optimus Prime in vehicle mode. The patterns were sized as Children's Large, so you're going to have to upscale it quite a bit if you want your <s>girlfriend</s> mom to knit you one.
{{-}}
==Gold Convoy Trophy==
[[Image:Gold_Convoy_Trophy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Thou will worship this golden convoy. Or Perish!]]

: A gold chrome [[Gold Convoy Trophy|trophy]] in the likeness of Optimus Prime was given as an award to an unknown number of distinguished [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] employees and as a [[Lucky Draw]] item way back in the 1980s. If you're an Optimus Prime merchandise completist, good bloody luck finding this one.
{{-}}

==Vehicle Play Tent==
*'''ERO''' (1984?)
[[Image:Vehicleplaytent.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Both a big truck ''and'' a series of tubes.]]
:The Vehicle Play Tent was part of the deluge of Transformers merchandise in the 80s. The tent was constructed by means of a series of plastic tubes that fit into sockets on corner pieces (similar to the "k'nex" building system that arrived a few years later), then a vinyl cover was slipped over this PVC skeleton to make the tent.
{{-}}

==Metalforce==
* '''Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''MFC-01'''
**''Accessories:'' Ion Blaster, Autobot Matrix of Leadership, alternate hand, unpainted rifle, Matrix, helmet and hand
[[Image:MetalforceConvoy.jpg|right|thumb|180px|I'm expensive!]]

: ''Metalforce'' Convoy is a large vinyl figurine sculpted to very closely resemble Optimus Prime as he appeared in the original television series, and at the time was the most accurate product depiction of Optimus Prime's cartoon appearance.

:The figure has useful swivel joints at the shoulders and neck, and not-so-useful ones at the wrists and knees. It comes fully painted and pre-assembled, but true to his garage figure origins his Ion blaster must be cut free using a hobby knife, then assembled. His clear blue chest window piece is removable to allow the installation of his [[Matrix of Leadership]], as is a ''[[The Transformers: The Movie|Movie]]''-style Matrix cover (not pictured). He also comes with an alternate hand that allow him to hold his accessories, as well as unpainted and uncut duplicates of his Matrix, hands and helmet, for some reason...

:Metalforce Prime was available in both a matte-paint "anime" version that more precisely echoed the colours of the actual series, and a metallic-paint version (pictured), which is less [[show-accuracy|show-accurate]] but more shiny. The plain-colours version was the first release and has an Autobot symbol tampograph on his shoulder as per [[The Transformers (cartoon)|the cartoon]], while the later metallic-finish version instead came with a decal sheet.

{{-}}
==Choro-Q==
*'''Convoy''' (2000)

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

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

==Super Collection Figure==

[[Image:Super_collection_figure_primes.jpg|right|300px|thumb]]

*'''Convoy''' (2000)
: A three-inch tall [[plastic|PVC]] figurine of Optimus Prime was available as part of the first wave of [[TakaraTomy|Takara]]'s ''[[Super Collection Figure]]'' line. Like all the figures in the wave, it was available as both a standard full color figure and a clear plastic version, one of each of which was available in a standard case of twelve [[blindpacking|blindpacked]] figures.

*'''Convoy''' (2000)
:Also available in the first ''Super Collection Figure'' wave was a rare "chase" version of the Prime figure, decorated in metallic paint and replacing his gun-wielding right hand with his [[energon-axe]].

*'''Convoy (Trailer Mode)''' (2000)
:Part of the second ''Super Collection Figure'' act, this is the only ''SCF'' figure of a vehicle-mode Transformer. As with the previous non-chase Prime figure, it was available as both a standard full color figure and a clear plastic version, one of each of which was available in a standard case of twelve blindpacked figures.

*'''Convoy w/ Megatron Gun''' (2000)
:The second ''Super Collection Figure'' wave, like the first, also had its own Optimus Prime chase figure, this one wielding Megatron in gun-mode and wearing [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]]'s rocket pack, as seen in the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 3]]".

*'''Convoy Damage Version''' (2001)
:There was no mass-release Optimus Prime figure for the third ''Super Collection Figure'' act, but there was another rare chase figure, this time a battle-damaged version of the original figure from the first act.

*'''Convoy''' (2001)
:For the fourth ''Super Collection Figure'' wave, Prime was rendered weaponless, speaking into the open communication panel on his left arm. Like all the figures in the fourth wave, Prime was available in both standard full color and metallic silver "pewter" versions, one of each of which was available in a standard case of twelve [[blindpacking|blindpacked]] figures. In eight out of every ten cases, the pewter version of Prime came packaged with the left arm of the collectable [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] build-a-figure.

*'''Convoy w/ Matrix''' (2001)
:This version of Prime was a chase figure in the fifth ''Super Collection Figure'' act, and depicted the Autobot leader, rendered in metallic silver, opening the Matrix.

*'''Convoy w/ Megatron Gun''' (2002)
:The sixth ''Super Collection Figure'' wave featured yet another mass-release version of Prime. Again wielding Megatron, much like the chase figure from the second wave, this figure came with an interchangeable empty fist. The figure was available in both full color and pewter versions in an equal ratio, and in eight out of every ten cases, the pewter version came with the head for the wave's [[Grand Maximus]] build-a-figure.

*'''Star Convoy''' (2002)
:After taking a break for the seventh wave, Prime returned for the eighth ''Super Collection Figure'' wave, which would prove to be the final Generation 1-themed set of figures. This figure of Prime in his Star Convoy body was available in both full color and pewter versions in an equal ratio, and in eight out of every ten cases, the colored version came with the right arm for the wave's [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] build-a-figure.

{{-}}
[[Image:Scf_convoy_set.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''Exclusive Convoy Set''' (2002)
:Available exclusively at the Japanese Wonder Festival convention, this set included the "Convoy w/ Megatron Gun" figure from the sixth wave, and the vehicle-mode Prime from act 2, both decorated in colored metallic paint. The set was limited to only 1000 units.
{{-}}
[[Image:Scf_confrontation_set.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''TF Confrontation Set 01: Convoy vs Megatron''' (2002)
**''Accessories:'' Energon-axe
:Exclusive to the Tokyo Game Show, this special set included the original first-wave Optimus Prime figure, along with the Megatron PVC from the same wave. Both featured new battle damage [[paint operation]]s, and came with the interchangeable energon-axe and mace weapons from their first-wave chase figures. As with the Wonder Festival set, this set was also limited to 1000 units.
{{-}}

==Heroes of Cybertron==

When the ''Super Collection Figure'' series was imported to become Hasbro's ''[[Heroes of Cybertron]]'' line, the figures were all cast entirely in translucent colored plastic, then painted over, save for the eyes and a small patch on the back of their heads, giving them all a [[light-piping]] gimmick. Unlike the Japanese figures, they were sold in individual blister packaging, with character profile cards.

* '''Optimus Prime''' (2002)
:A ''Heroes of Cybertron'' release of the first ''Super Collection Figure'' Optimus Prime figure.

* '''Powermaster Optimus Prime Apex Armor''' (2002)
: Actually a repaint of the ''Super Collection Figure'' of Prime's ''[[Super-God Masterforce (franchise)|Super-God Masterforce]]'' lookalike [[Ginrai|God Ginrai]], this figurine is based on Ginrai's appearance in the ''Super-God Masterforce'' cartoon, and depicts Prime combined with his trailer and [[Apex Bomber]].

* '''Optimus Prime with Plasma Weapon''' (2002)
:This second-wave ''Heroes of Cybertron'' release of the chase figure from the first ''Super Collection Figure'' wave was a little different from its Japanese progenitor, lacking its metallic paint.

* '''Powermaster Optimus Prime Spark Attack''' (2002)
: Another unusual figure, this second-wave figurine is a redeco of the first God Ginrai/Powermaster Prime Apex Armor PVC figure, cast in translucent orange plastic. The figure emulates God Ginrai performing his "God Fire Guts" attack, although the ''Super Collection Figure'' Fire Guts God Ginrai figure was actually metallic golden.

*''' Optimus Prime with Communicator''' (2003)
:This fifth-wave ''Heroes of Cybertron'' figure is a release of the Prime figure from the fourth ''Super Collection Figure'' wave. It came with the head and weapons for the wave's collectable [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] build-a-figure.

<center><gallery>
Image:HOCPrime.jpg|Hey Spike, pull my finger.
Image:HOCPrime_axe.jpg|Energon Axe: Only used in [[More than Meets the Eye, Part 2|one episode]]. Ever.
Image:Aaoptimus.jpg|Don't tell anyone, but this crap is HEAVY!
Image:Pmoptimus.jpg|This can't be [[Spark attack|Spark Attack]]! His is so energetic that... he BURNS.
</gallery></center>

{{-}}
==Hard Hero==
[[Image:HardHero_OptimusPrime_bust.JPG|right|thumb|150px|]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (Bust, 2002)

: Optimus Prime was the first ''Transformers'' bust released by [[Hard Hero]]. He is approximately six inches tall at the head (8.5 at the gun) and is made out of cold-cast porcelain. There were also a version of the bust signed by the sculptor, limited to 100 samples.

{{-}}

[[Image:HHero_OptimusStatue.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Not there. There!]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (Full figure statue, 2003)

:Hard Hero also created a 13-inch tall Optimus Prime statue. It is sculpted pointing with his left hand while holding his ion rifle in his right.

{{-}}

==Generation 1 Figure-Collection==

[[Image:Bottlecap_prime_gun.JPG|right|thumb|]]

*'''Convoy (gun)''' (2003)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''C-1'''
**''Accessories:'' Display base

:At only one inch in height, this Optimus "bottlecap" figurine (so named because its display base is the size of a bottlecap) was one of fourteen blindpacked figures available in Kabaya's Transformers [[Generation 1 Figure-Collection]]. The figure was rendered in both a standard "retro" black and white color scheme, and a rare full-color [[chase figure|chase]] version, and came with a leaflet, personalized with cartoon screen captures.
{{-}}
[[Image:Bottlecap prime pointing.JPG|thumb]]
*'''Convoy (pointing)''' (2003)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''C-2'''
**''Accessories:'' Display base

:The second Prime figure in the Generation 1 collection was much like the first, only sculpted with an empty hand, pointing off into the distance like a lot of Optimus Prime figures are wont to do.
::*''[http://snakas.web.infoseek.co.jp/misc_item/kabaya_bottle.htm More information on the Bottlecap Collection at Autobase Aichi]''

{{--}}

==KT Figure Collection - The Transformers==
*'''Convoy''' (KT Figure Collection, 2004)
: This figure was designed by [[Yūki Ōshima]] and produced by [[KT Figure Collection]]. The figure is actually a mini bust of Optimus Prime, which includes the head and the upper body without arms. The chest design comes with translucent blue windows and a grill on the midsection. There is also a button in the back. Pushing the button will open the chest and cause the Matrix to emerge, similar to the scene in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.

*'''Convoy "Revival version"''' (''[[Figure Ō]]'' exclusive, 2004)
: The 82nd issue of the hobby magazine ''[[Figure Ō]]'' came with a [[redeco]] version of Optimus Prime's mini bust. It is painted completely silver, making him appear to be coated with the special alloy from "[[The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 2]]".

<center><gallery>
Image:Optimus_Prime_KT.jpg|Thanks for helping me... [[City of Steel|pull myself together]].
Image:Optimus_Prime_ex_KT.jpg|No, I am [[redeco|NOT]] [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]! I'm silver, not [[:Image:Magnuslongshot.jpg|white]].
</gallery></center>
{{-}}

==Palisades==
[[Image:Palisades_WarWithinPrime.jpg|right|thumb|200px|]]
* '''The War Within Optimus Prime''' ([[Palisades]], 2005)

:'''The War Within'' Optimus Prime is a six-inch-tall polystone mini statue based on his appearance in the popular [[War Within (franchise)|''War Within'' comic book series]]. Prime stands on a silver Autobot-insignia stand, is decorated with dirt to simulate battle damage, and has articulation in his head and arms. The statue was limited to 1500 pieces worldwide.

{{-}}

==Titanium==
[[Image:TitaniumRMWWPrime.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Squattie]]
* '''War Within Optimus Prime''' (3" Robot Masters, 2006)
**''Accessories:'' Ion Blaster, display stand

: ''War Within'' Optimus Prime is the second toy representation of Optimus Prime as he appears in ''War Within''. Constructed partially of die-cast metal, this three inch version cannot transform and has some articulation, limited to his shoulders, head and waist.

{{-}}
[[Image:TitaniumRMG1Prime.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Drop and give me twenty, soldier!]]
* '''Optimus Prime''' (3" Robot Master, 2006)
**''Accessories:'' Ion Blaster, display stand

: The first Titanium representation of G1 Optimus Prime has a well-proportioned sculpt based on his 20th Anniversary toy. Constructed partially of die-cast metal, this three inch version cannot transform and has some articulation, limited to his shoulders, head and waist.

{{-}}
* '''Optimus Prime (Battle Damaged)''' (3" Robot Master, 2006)
**''Accessories:'' Ion Blaster, display stand
: This is a repaint of the 3" G1 Optimus Prime titanium figurine, with a 'battle-damaged' deco.

*'''Optimus Prime & Bumblebee''' (2-pack, 2007)
**''Accessories:'' Ion Blaster, display stand
: A Toys 'R' Us [[exclusive]] two-pack, this set features "Supermetal Finish" (read: shiny) versions of the "Robot Master" ''Titaniums'' Optimus Prime and Bumblebee.

==Diamond Select==
[[Image:Optimus Prime Mini-bust.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Autobots, Roll Out!!]]
* '''Optimus Prime''' (Diamond Select, 2007)
:A mini-bust of Optimus Prime based on his appearance in the comic was released by [[Diamond Select]] in 2007. The figure includes the upper body of Optimus Prime, carrying his laser rifle and posed as if preparing to charge. The Matrix of Leadership is sculpted into the base of the statue.

{{-}}
[[Image:Ark_Globe.jpg|thumb|right|200px|]]
*'''Autobot Snow Globe''' (Diamond Select, 2007)

:Optimus Prime is also featured in Diamond Select's Autobot-themed snow globe, posing above a [[Mount St. Hilary]] base which also features the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'' and [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]]. The globe was sculpted by [[Art Asylum]].

{{-}}

[[Image:DST08_FinalBattlePrimeBust.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Hold this for a moment won't you.]]
* '''Final Battle Optimus Prime''' (Diamond Select, 2008)
:Final Battle Optimus Prime was exclusive to the online retailer Action Figure Xpress. He was sculpted by [[Mark Wong]] of [[Art Asylum]] and limited to 1000 pieces. Optimus Prime is shown after his climactic battle with Megatron during Transformers: The Movie; shortly before he passed the Matrix of Leadership (which is also removable here) to Ultra Magnus. His base features the life support readout that monitored both his declining health and eventual death.

{{-}}

[[Image:DST_SDCCToonPrimeBust.jpg|right|thumb|200px|]]
* '''G1 Animated Optimus Prime''' (Diamond Select, 2008)
:G1 Animated Optimus Prime was exclusive to the 2008 San Diego Comic Con. He was sculpted by [[Mark Wong]] of [[Art Asylum]] and features a more matte color scheme to better match the cartoon's palette.

{{-}}

[[Image:DiamondSelect_PowermasterOptimus.jpg|thumb|right|200px|]]
*'''Powermaster Optimus Prime''' (Diamond Select, 2010)

:This fourth Optimus Prime bust was to be based on his [[Powermaster]] incarnation, but appears to have been canceled.

{{canceledtoy}}
{{-}}

==First 4 Figures==
[[Image:SnakeEyes_OptimusPrime_statue.jpg|thumb|right|150px|]]
*'''Snake-Eyes & Optimus Prime Statue''' (2007)

:[[First 4 Figures]] produced a statue based on the cover of [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 1|issue 1]] of ''[[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers]]'', featuring an Optimus Prime in the [[Cobra]] HISS tank body he used in that series. Prime is an 8-inch tall one-armed bust, and ''[[G.I. Joe (franchise)|G.I. Joe]]''<nowiki>'s</nowiki> resident ninja [[Snake-Eyes]] stands battle-ready in his open palm.

{{-}}
[[Image:StormShadow_OptimusPrime_statue.jpg|thumb|150px|right|]]
* '''Storm Shadow & Optimus Prime Statue''' (2007)

: First 4 Figures's second ''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers'' statue is 7.5 inches tall and is based on the cover of [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 5|issue 5]]. This one depicts [[Cobra]]'s own ninja, [[Storm Shadow]], taking a stance above Optimus Prime's damaged head. The statue was limited to 1000 samples.

{{-}}

==Transformers (2007)==
*'''Optimash Prime''' (2007)
{{main|Optimash Prime}}
{{-}}
[[Image:Softimus Prime.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Freedom is the right of all sentient beings... in bed.]]
*'''Softimus Prime''' (2007)

:Softimus Prime is, as his name suggests, a plush G1 Optimus Prime toy. Obviously, he has no problems with articulation and passes the drop test with flying colors. His main draw is the ability to "transform" into his Freightliner FL86 vehicle mode by turning the plush toy inside out, his transformation roughly similar to the Powermaster cab Prime's. He features Movie-style faction symbols on his right arm and both sides of his cab mode. He is love.

{{-}}
==Robot Heroes==
[[Image:RH_Optimus_vs_Ravage.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Mini-Me!]]
*'''Optimus Prime Vs Ravage''' (2007)

: Packed with [[Ravage (G1)/toys|Ravage]], Optimus Prime is one of the first figures in the Transformers segment of the ''Heroes'' franchise. As with all ''Heroes'' figures, Optimus Prime is a simple, yet well-detailed two-inch tall figurine with exaggerated, cartoony proportions. He is sculpted holding his Ion Blaster rifle in his right fist and his left arm in a pointing pose. He is also love, and demands that you pull his [[More than Meets the Eye, Part 3#Notes|Finger of Doom]].

: This version of Optimus was later also released as part of a set with a 100-piece [[jigsaw puzzle]].

[[Image:Robot_Hero_Supermetal_Optimus_Prime.jpg|right|thumb|100px|Cuteness is the right of all sentient beings.]]
*'''Decepticon Sneak Attack''' (2007)

: "Supermetal Finish" Optimus Prime is a special shiny [[redeco]] of the previous Robot Hero. He came in a Wal-Mart exclusive multipack also including "Hologram" [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]], [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]], "Supermetal Finish" [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]].

{{-}}

[[Image:RH_Prime_vs_Unicron.jpg|right|thumb|150px|'Til all are cute.]]
*'''Optimus Prime Vs Unicron''' (2007)

: Packed with [[Unicron]], a second SD Optimus Prime for the Transformers segment of the ''Heroes'' franchise. This version of the Chibimus Prime has him opening the Matrix of Leadership to shine the Autobots' darkest hour. Better him than [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus]].

{{-}}

==Attacktix==

*'''Optimus Prime''' (Starter Set, 2007)
[[Image:Attacktix_Optimus_Prime.jpg|right|thumb|He shoots sideways. The direction, not [[Sideways (RID)|the character]].]]
{{attacktix
|ID=TF2-19
|faction=Autobot
|class=Leader
|special=Last Stand - 13/26 (50%) success ratio
|cost=40
|speed=6
|attacktype=Shooter (Force Blast)
}}
{{-}}
:Optimus Prime will shoot you down. He was released as part of the 2007 Starter Set along with ''[[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]]'' [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], ''[[Energon (franchise)|Energon]]'' [[Landquake (Energon)|Landquake]]) and ''[[Cybertron (franchise)|Cybertron]]'' [[Skywarp (Armada)|Skywarp]].

:Optimus' Last Stand special allows him to stand up if he's the only figure in your team left in play. If you're down to two men you might even be tempted to shoot your own man just to keep Optimus Prime in play. Don't though. [[Peter Cullen]] wouldn't approve.

:Sadly you can't bring him into play with the ''Cybertron'' [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Super Optimus Prime]] vehicle mode because he's not ''Super'' Optimus Prime.
{{-}}
==Revoltech==
[[Image:Revoltech_Convoy.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Windowbra!]]
*'''Convoy''' (2007)
**''Series number:'' '''019'''
**''Accessories:'' Ion blaster, Autobot Matrix of Leadership, two clenched fists, gun-wielding right hand, pointing right hand, open left hand

:A non-transforming but ''highly'' articulated Optimus Prime action figure(ine), ''[[Revoltech]]'' Convoy uses the ''Revoltech'' "revolver joints" for maximum poseability. Prime comes with his now-standard ion blaster and Matrix of Leadership accessories, as well as a few alternate hands; while one of the hands is specifically designed to grip the ion blaster, he can't really do anything dramatic with the Matrix, and it just sort of sits in his open-palmed left hand. His sculpting is explicitly in the style of [[Pat Lee|Pat "serfdom" Lee]]'s interpretation of Prime, but due to physical constraints has no lack of perspective.

:Unsurprisingly, this mold was redecoed to create ''Revoltech'' [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/toys|Ultra Magnus]]. Magnus comes with a new hand mold that can be used to connect him and Prime together in a handshake.

{{--}}

==Mighty Muggs==
[[Image:MightyMuggs_OptimusPrime.jpg|right|thumb|175px|Optimus lost his ears in the rock tumbler.]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (2009)
:''Accessories:'' Ion rifle

: This [[super-deformed]], non-transformable Optimus Prime figure uses the standard [[Mighty Muggs]] body template, with swivel joints in his neck and limbs. He comes with a similarly super-deformed version of his ion rifle.

{{-}}

[[Image:MightyMuggs_MetallicOptimusPrime.jpg|right|thumb|175px|Optimus, did you polish your head in the Shine-O Ball-O?]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (2009)
**''Accessories:'' Ion rifle

: An [[exclusive]] to the [http://www.comic-con.org/cci/ 2009 San Diego Comic-Con], this Optimus Prime Mugg has a shiny metallic finish.

{{-}}

==Transformers Wacky Wobblers==
[[Image:WackyWobblers_G1OptimusPrime.jpg|thumb|right|150px|]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (2009)

: This Optimus Prime [[wikipedia:Bobblehead|bobblehead]] is part of the popular ''[[Wacky Wobblers]]'' line produced by [[wikipedia:Funko|Funko]]. Aside from the standard-issue big wobbling head, he features a ion rifle molded onto his right hand and his arms swivel at the shoulders. Optimus is affixed to a base with his name on it.
{{-}}

==USB-Powered Speaker Head==
*'''Optimus Prime USB-Powered Speaker Head'''
[[Image:G1-optimusprime-merc-speaker.jpg|thumb|right|180px|]]
: As a 6.5" figure, Optimus Prime's head is built-in with [[Wikipedia:Universal Serial Bus|USB]]-powered speakers. There are two speaker inside each side of Optimus Prime's head. The control panel, USB port, and earphone port is locate in the back of the head. Under the neck, there is a display to support the head.
: The speaker is redecoed to create Ultra Magnus Speaker.
{{-}}

==Transformers Backpacks==
*'''Optimus Prime''' (2009)

:Made by [[Fab Starpoint]], these backpacks are allegedly "engineered for style, safety, comfort... and saving the Universe!" The Generation 1 Optimus Prime design features a stock silhouette of Optimus Prime surrounded by stars, like the [[Paramount Pictures]] logo, while on the lower compartment there is a gigantic Autobot sigil.
{{comingsoontoy}}
{{-}}

[[Category: Attacktix]]
[[Category: Autobots]]
[[Category: Autobot leaders]]
[[Category: Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category: MyClone]]
[[Category: Robot Heroes]]
[[Category: Robot Masters characters]]
[[Category: Titanium Series]]

Thundercracker (G1)

2010-11-16T01:22:25Z

MrBlud: /* Transformers - Mini Bust */

{{factions|decepticon|decepticong2}}
{{picsneeded|fictional appearances, original toy solo pic}}
{{disambig3|Thundercracker}}
:''Thundercracker is a [[Decepticon]] from the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:Thundercrackerg1guido.jpg|right|300px|thumb|The blue one. No, the other blue one.]]
'''Thundercracker''' claims the skies as his arena. He looks down in contempt on those who cannot leave the ground — he considers them lesser beings. He will often attack the flightless beings below him for no other reason than to satisfy his scorn.

His superiority in this realm is the only thing he is sure of. Thundercracker is not entirely committed to the Decepticon cause, and even has some seemingly contradictory sympathy for the [[human]]s they terrorize. Fear of retribution from [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] and the influence of his peers is usually enough to bury these doubts. Regardless, he needs constant reassurance that he's where he needs to be. Sometimes, his [[Spark|heart's]] just not in the job.

{{bigquote|[[Human|These creatures]] were never worthy adversaries. The Decepticons are forged through combat, not slaughter.|Thundercracker|[[All Hail Megatron issue 12|''All Hail Megatron'' #12]]}}

:''French-Canadian name:'' '''Coup de Tonnerre''' ("Thunderclap")
:''Chinese name (Taiwan):'' '''Lìeh Léi''' (裂雷, "Cracking Thunder") / '''Léi-gōng''' (雷公, "[[wikipedia:Lei Gong|Duke of Thunder]]")
:''Chinese name (China):'' '''Jing Tian Léi''' (驚天雷, "Sky-shocking Thunder")
:''Hungarian name:'' '''Villámcsapás''' ("Lightning strike")
:''Italian name:'' '''Vampiro''' ("Vampire")
:''Portuguese name (Portugal comics):'' '''Grande Trovão''' ("Big Thunder")
:''Portugese name (Brazil comics):'' '''Arrasador''' ("Destroyer")

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Generation 1====
{{noteukonly}}
[[Image:Introdump decepticons marvelus01.jpg|left|300px|thumb|Thundercracker is the one that is not Skywarp.]]
Thundercracker was one of [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron's]] troops who attacked the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] during its mission to clear a path for [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] through an asteroid field. He was deactivated when it crashed on [[Earth]], and he lay dormant for four million years. When he and his fellow Decepticons awoke, Thundercracker was given a new [[alternate mode]], that of an Earth jet. {{storylink|The Transformers (issue)|The Transformers}} He aided the Decepticons in their building of their new base constructed of parts from [[Harrison Nuclear Power Plant]] and joined in their attack on [[Sparkplug Witwicky]]'s auto repair shop. After the successful abduction of Sparkplug Witwicky, Thundercracker, [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]], and [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] defended their base from [[Autobot|Autobots]], though [[Gears (G1)|Gears]] and [[Spider-Man]] were able to sneak through and rescue Sparkplug. {{storylink|Prisoner of War!}}

''On another occasion, he and Skywarp made a strafing run on two Autobot spies, [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] and [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]]. Jazz was deafened and blasted off the road, but Sunstreaker led them into a human military zone, prompting Megatron to call them back to base. {{storylink|Perchance to Dream}}''

Though Sparkplug Witwicky was able to devise a way for the Decepticons to convert Earth fuel into a usable substance, he also poisoned the result, so Thundercracker and his fellow Decepticons were immobilized at the climax of their would-be final battle with the Autobots. {{storylink|The Last Stand}} The Decepticon [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] took command of the Decepticons and the Ark shortly thereafter, and nursed Thundercracker and his comrades back to full health. Thundercracker may have helped Shockwave attempt to capture and brainwash [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] into a Decepticon, or it may have been Skywarp. It's hard to tell. {{storylink|Plight of the Bumblebee!}}

He served the Decepticon cause up until he was deactivated while battling [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] and placed in prison stasis at Autobot headquarters. {{storylink|Command Performances!}}

''Like Starscream and [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]], he revived early and soon quickly escaped from the Ark. He, Frenzy and Shockwave were then temporarily displaced to [[Limbo]] when [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]], [[Kup (G1)|Kup]] and [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] time-jumped from 2006. {{storylink|Target: 2006}}''

During a massive battle between the Autobots and Decepticons on Earth's moon, Thundercracker and the other Decepticons held in stasis aboard the Ark were liberated by the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] and subsequently brought back on-line. {{storylink|Totaled!}} Much later, Thundercracker manned the battle stations with his fellow Decepticons when [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] reported an intruder. {{storylink|Cold War!}} He next attacked an [[Underbase]]-powered Starscream in [[Tokyo]], but both he and Skywarp were destroyed by their former flying partner. {{storylink|Dark Star (issue)|Dark Star}}

====''Generation 2''====
Thundercracker was active on Earth during the Decepticons' major offensive against the human population, and was present when Megatron stole the [[Matrix of Leadership|Creation Matrix]] from [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]]. {{storylink|The Gathering Darkness}} He later served in the Tykos raid, albeit in a menial role.

Starscream thinks he's a moron. {{storylink|New Dawn}}

====''Classics''====
After being revived from a state of near death, Thundercracker couldn't bring himself to serve with Starscream, the bot who killed him, and so he joined [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]'s Decepticon faction instead of his old leader Megatron's group. Of course, he ended up unable to control himself due to the [[Cerebro-shell|cerebro-shells]] of his latest maniacal boss, [[Bug Bite (G1)|Bug Bite]], so... tough break. To make matters worse, he had to listen to [[Weirdwolf]]. Even under Bug Bite's control, he threatened bodily harm if Weirdwolf didn't shut up.

Under Bug Bite's control, he fired a cerebro-shell at Skywarp, and was forced to help enslave Megatron and his forces. He was liberated by the interference of [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] and [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]. {{storylink|Games of Deception}}

Thundercracker was repaired and brought back on-line by Megatron. He was apparently willing to put aside his animosity towards Starscream at this point in order to serve under his glorious leader once more. When Megatron staged an attack on Bludgeon, he placed Thundercracker in command of one of the three warships. {{storylink|At Fight's End}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====''The Transformers'' cartoon====
:''Voice actor:'' [[John Stephenson]], [[Wally Burr]] ("[[War Dawn]]" only) (English), [[Yū Shimaka|Yutaka Shimaka]] (Japanese), [[Jacques Ferrière]] (French)

[[Image:Tetrajet seekers.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Cybertron alt-mode (on the right). Out of all the pre-earth alt modes, these pyramid jets seem to be the only ones anyone really cares about.]]

In the early days of the Decepticon rebellion, Thundercracker and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] both faced the powerful protectors of [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron's]] cities, the [[Guardian Robots]]. According to Thundercracker, he was often not very successful. {{storylink|War Dawn}}

Thundercracker was one of [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron's]] elite warriors, participating in the attack on the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] and joining the rest of the Earth-bound Transformers in their several-million-year nap under an inactive volcano. He awoke when the rest of the Decepticons did, and took part in their attempts to gather [[Energon (fuel)|energon]] and escape the planet [[Earth]], which he loathed for being too "flat". It was he and [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]] who spotted the first "potential Autobot", when in fact they had discovered the planet's native inhabitants, two [[human]]s, in a non-sentient vehicle. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 1}}

Megatron took the Decepticons to [[Sherman Dam]], a major source of energy. The Autobots, upon discovering their plot, soon arrived to prevent their ambition from becoming reality. Thundercracker and Skywarp fought off [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] and [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]], only for Mirage to make a recovery and send the two Seekers off the bridge they were standing on. They were at least able to recover in time to escape with the rest of the group once Megatron had knocked Optimus Prime into the rushing river nearby. Though Thundercracker assisted in filling the energon cubes, [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] wasted a huge amount of energon testing it with a cannon. The Decepticons were then forced to make two stops: one at the [[Ruby Crystal Mines of Burma]], and another hunting for rocket fuel. Thundercracker and a handful of [[generic]]s painted like him were among the strike force headed for the Crystal Mines. While there, he pushed a cart of these gems with Skywarp, talking to Skywarp about his dislike for Earth, something Skywarp agreed with. They just barely avoided noticing [[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]] and his ally [[Sparkplug Witwicky]], who had come to investigate. The two set a bomb, but ran into the two Seekers on their way back out. Thundercracker attacked them until they were on the ground, Skywarp proposing that they give them as a present to Megatron. The bomb went off almost immediately afterward, burying the Decepticons and their enemies, so this did not come to be. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 2}}

[[Image:MTMTEpt2-Thundercracker_Skywarp_Mine.jpg|thumb|250px|left|"Gee Thundercracker, what are we going to do today?" "The same thing we do every day, Skywarp... try to take over the world!"]]

Both parties managed to escape safely, and Thundercracker went with the other Decepticons (save for Megatron) to a rocket fuel base, where Thundercracker made his mark by destroying a couple of tanks. The Autobots arrived to stop them, with Thundercracker, Skywarp, and Laserbeak unleashing an aerial assault upon Cliffjumper and Wheeljack. During the brawl, Megatron called Thundercracker and the other troops to the [[Victory (G1)|space cruiser]] to return to Cybertron. However, a surprise attack from Mirage grounded their plans, literally and metaphorically. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 3}}

This would not be the end of the Decepticons, however. The crashed Victory was rebuilt into a fortress, from which they made another assault looking for energon. Thundercracker participated in many other attacks following this, also witnessing Megatron's disappearance in a [[space bridge]] accident, {{storylink|Transport to Oblivion}} and being part of the attack on a hydroelectric power generator along with Soundwave and Starscream, who declared himself leader in Megatron's absence. Though a group of Autobots came to stop them, Thundercracker bashed the charging Cliffjumper with a pillar from the building. The energon cubes they were making were destroyed, and Soundwave suggested that the squad should retreat. As they escaped, Thundercracker criticized Starscream's leader capabilities, going on to praise Megatron when he revealed himself to have survived. Starscream took his squad (and Skywarp) to an airplane factory for spare parts, but while Thundercracker was having his wings reattached, Bluestreak and Prowl crashed the party. The Seekers shot at the Autobots, but [[Chip Chase]] took control of the injured Prowl and had him unleash a spectacular assault forcing Starscream's squad to escape. However, they made a quick stop at Chip's house and abducted him, taking him to [[Doctor Alcazar|Dr. Alcazar]]'s lab where the other Decepticons were. They extracted the antimatter formula from his brain, making them stronger. Thundercracker was unable to kill the now-useless Chip, as Autobots interrupted and took him back. The next morning, after leaving the lab, [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] used his [[jet judo]] on the antimatter-powered Thundercracker, but Starscream thwarted this plan. Thundercracker was then ordered to give Megatron the antimatter cubes, transforming him into "the most powerful weapon of all". This plan was a failure, and the Decepticons had no choice but to get away. {{storylink|Roll for It}}

[[Image:Thundercrackerg1.jpg|right|180px|thumb|FLINTSTOOOOONE!!!]]

Thundercracker again joined his fellow Seekers in raiding a factory for energy and heavily damaging Optimus Prime, who had been called in by Chip. When more Autobots showed up, Megatron ordered the Seekers to escape with the energon cubes rather than fighting them. At the end of the day, Thundercracker participated in a battle in front of the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]], where he was punched down by [[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]] immediately as he landed. When Megatron suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of a recovered Optimus Prime, Starscream smugly instructed everybody to take Megatron back for repairs. {{storylink|Divide and Conquer}} Following this, Thundercracker witnessed the rebirth of Starscream's former colleague [[Jetfire (G1)|Skyfire]] {{storylink|Fire in the Sky}} and was shot down by [[Slag (G1)|Slag]] during a mission at the [[Great Falls]]. {{storylink|S.O.S. Dinobots}}

One of the few things he seemed to loathe even more than the world he was stranded on was the attitude of his commander, [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]]. Thundercracker often started fights with the [[Air Commander]], usually over whether or not Megatron's latest plan was a waste of time (Thundercracker took Megatron's side). At one point, Thundercracker's distaste for "that geeky Starscream" became so strong that he was willing to let Skyfire destroy one of the Decepticons' greatest weapons, just in the hopes that Starscream would get blamed for it! {{storylink|Fire on the Mountain}} Despite these brushes with treachery, however, Thundercracker just never had it in him to do anything more than complain about his fellow Decepticons.

Thundercracker and the other Seekers helped haul [[Meteorini Chipperoni|an unstable meteor]] back for the Decepticons, {{storylink|War of the Dinobots}} and the Seekers next attacked a solar plant located in [[India]] as a diversion so Megatron could continue his plan. When Skywarp and Starscream began arguing over the effectiveness of the plan, Thundercracker merely kept his mouth shut. The Autobots came to rescue Sparkplug, going to the underwater base to do so. During this underwater battle, Thundercracker sent a missile at Bumblebee, only for Bumblebee to direct it back at him. He was next doing some work on a large space bridge for Megatron, one that would bring Cybertron into Earth's orbit and create devastating weather. {{storylink|The Ultimate Doom, Part 1}} Starscream ordered Thundercracker to use his flamethrower against the Autobots, and despite Thundercracker's protests saying that the wind is too strong, Starscream wouldn't give in. Thundercracker turned out to be correct, and his fire ended up scorching to two Seekers instead, something [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] and [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] found humourous. {{storylink|The Ultimate Doom, Part 2}} When the other Decepticons noticed that Megatron had left for Cybertron by himself, Thundercracker was in hot pursuit. {{storylink|The Ultimate Doom, Part 3}} Thundercracker was the straight man when Skywarp, Rumble, and [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] were bickering when they should have been working. Though he was as surprised as everybody else when Megatron arrived, perfectly healthy, to shut everybody up, Thundercracker was willing to go with Megatron when he discovered Starscream and [[Doctor Arkeville|Dr. Arkeville]]'s plot. {{storylink|Countdown to Extinction (episode)|Countdown to Extinction}}

[[Image:CTE-Thundercracker_Skywarp_Rumble.jpg|thumb|left|210px|Somebody must have forgotten to lock the gate at the petting zoo...]]

Megatron took [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] and Thundercracker to [[Bali]] after [[Insecticon (G1)|giant insects]] were reported in the area. When [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] showed them to a Decepticon escape pod disguised as a hollow rock, Thundercracker deduced that the giant insects were Decepticons who came to Earth and scanned insects as [[alternate mode]]s. This group met up with the Insecticons, and [[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]] requested that they help defeat the group of Autobots challenging them, to which they agreed. When reinforcement Autobots came in, Megatron ordered the Decepticons (Insecticons included) to head for the oil refinery to rest up. The Insecticons separated, with the rest going to the refinery, where Thundercracker poured oil from the pipes into Soundwave's energon cubes, and brought more cubes when Rumble requested them. [[Jetfire (G1)|A visitor]] soon showed up, and Thundercracker joined in giving him a "warm welcome". Other Autobots arrived, with Brawn, Wheeljack and Optimus Prime being forced to dive into the water to avoid a "Shrapnel grenade". Thundercracker used his flamethrower on the trio of Autobots, who avoided it and retaliated by swimming underwater and then pushing up the dock Thundercracker was standing on, throwing him into his own inferno. He retreated with the rest of his group to follow the fleeing Insecticons. {{storylink|A Plague of Insecticons}}

Megatron used the power chip rectifiers taken from the other Decepticons in his one-on-one battle against Optimus Prime. Thundercracker contributed his, allowing Megatron to use ear-splitting sonic booms. After the battle, the Autobots went back to base so Optimus could recover, where they discovered the Decepticons' plan. After distracting and threatening them with a hologram, the Autobots shot at their enemies until they fell down the crevice, into the lava below. {{storylink|Heavy Metal War}}

[[Image:TheImmobilizer-Thundercracker_River.jpg|thumb|215px|right|''Transformers: Revenge of the Redecos'' never quite came to pass.]]

Thundercracker obviously survived his fall with the rest of his group, as he was around for attacks on Air Force rocket bases, and on the hunt for [[Autobot X]], {{storylink|Autobot Spike}} and was with the other Decepticons in Africa, but at the end of the day, he was sent flying into a tree by Ratchet. When the solar needle situation became dire, causing the sun to come close to self-destruction, Thundercracker was smart enough to fly away, the first Decepticon to do so. {{storylink|Changing Gears}} He was also part of an aerial strike force bombarding the Autobots as they attempted to recover Optimus Prime's right arm from the Decepticons' fortress in "[[New Cybertron]]". {{storylink|City of Steel}} Along with the other Seekers, Thundercracker attacked the outside of the Ark as a diversion so Megatron could insert [[Personality destabilizer device|a device]] in the Ark's recharging chamber that would turn the Autobots evil. Notably, Thundercracker's blasts created a landslide that stopped [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] in his tracks. He was later boarding a rocket that would hopefully take the Decepticons back to Cybertron, but the Autobots, who had become good again, damaged the fuel tanks and forced the Decepticons to jump ship. {{storylink|Attack of the Autobots}} Thundercracker was seen with the other Decepticons, shooting at Optimus Prime when he came for their electro-cells, {{storylink|Traitor}} and was among those who came to steal Wheeljack's [[Wheeljack Instant Immobilizer|Immobilizer]]. {{storylink|The Immobilizer}} When the Autobots became trapped in their vehicle modes thanks to the transfixatron, Thundercracker blasted Optimus Prime and Ironhide and overheated them. He also helped Starscream bring out the Decepticon body shell, and then attempted (and failed) to kill [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|an Earthcrawler with an overdue termination]]. {{storylink|The Autobot Run}} After Soundwave's discovery of [[Sub-Atlantica|an underwater city]], Thundercracker and the other Decepticons went to go plunder it for energy. When they discovered [[Nergill|a new ally]], Thundercracker worked on some technology that would hopefully raise his submerged city. Although he was skeptical about working with them, he had to go along anyway as part of a larger plan. He was then among the Seekers who menaced a squad of Autobots when they came to check out the situation. When Sub-Atlantica had risen to the water's surface and floated towards [[Washington, D.C.]], Thundercracker entered the city with his fellow Decepticons. Though he and Skywarp threatened [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] and Prowl from above, Brawn held Thundercracker with a hooked rope so Optimus Prime could blast him out of the sky. {{storylink|Atlantis, Arise!}}

The three Seekers tore the roof off the building where [[Doctor Fujiyama the Famous Scientist|Dr. Fujiyama, the famous scientist]] unveiled his new robot [[Nightbird (G1)|Nightbird]], with Thundercracker and Starscream promptly transporting Nightbird to the Decepticons' temporary base. Later, Megatron considered replacing Starscream with the now-reprogrammed Nightbird. Starscream threw a fit and Megatron told Thundercracker and Skywarp to hold him back before Soundwave and Bombshell trapped him in a force field. Megatron led the Decepticons (minus Starscream) to retrieve Nightbird's World Energy Chip, but Starscream escaped and shot her with his [[null-ray]] in yet another act of treachery. Megatron sent the other Decepticons to catch the traitor, allowing the Autobots to collect it. {{storylink|Enter the Nightbird}}

[[Image:APrimeProblem-Thundercracker_and_Gears.jpg|thumb|left|210px|Let me at least keep this Autobot, please Starscream?]]

When the Autobots were investigating a mysterious source of energy in a crevice, the Seekers attacked Optimus Prime. Thundercracker charged at Optimus, only to be grabbed and thrown to the ground. Much later, as part of a ploy by Megatron, Thundercracker was surprised to hear [[Starscream clone (G1)|"Starscream"]] announce for everybody to hold their fire, as he had [[Gears (G1)|an Autobot]] in his very hands and could kill him. Starscream shut him up by repeating the order. But when Starscream explained his plan to fight [[Optimus Prime clone|"Optimus Prime"]], Thundercracker went along with it and was the one who announced the start of the match. {{storylink|A Prime Problem}} On a later mission, he ambushed the Autobots from above, only to be swatted away by an Autobot-controlled Devastator. {{storylink|The Core}} He was subsequently around at the mission to [[Nova Power Plant]], firing at the Autobots and a group of helicopter-piloting humans. At [[Iron Mountain]], the Insecticons managed to enslave Thundercracker and the other Seekers. However, when the now enormous-sized Shrapnel exploded, it also deactivated the [[cerebro-shell]]s that had taken over the Seekers, and they were returned to normal. {{storylink|The Insecticon Syndrome}} When Laserbeak reported [[Dinobot Island (G1)|a strange, prehistoric island]] chock-full of energon sources to Megatron, he brought a team of Decepticons with him, Thundercracker helping to fill up the energon cubes. {{storylink|Dinobot Island, Part 1}} Thundercracker also assisted in repelling both Autobots on the island and [[Dinosaur|the island's monsters]], only to be run over by a stampede. {{storylink|Dinobot Island, Part 2}} Next, he and the other jets came to a ravine to get a few shots in at the Autobots. This failed when [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] used his eponymous ability to blind them. {{storylink|Auto Berserk}}

[[Image:Microbots-DrunkThundercracker.jpg|thumb|right|210px|Before we could transform, we had to walk ''15 MILES'' to Cybertronian school every day! (hic!)]]

He was also around to assist the Decepticons in recovering the wreck of the Nemesis, which had crashed in South America. He also got completely smashed when the Decepticons went on an energon binge. {{storylink|Microbots}} He also disguised himself as an Autobot as part of a Decepticon plan to frame the Autobots. When the plan worked, he and the others witnessed the Autobots' banishment from Earth. {{storylink|Megatron's Master Plan, Part 1}} Thundercracker and Skywarp supervised the humans filling up energon cubes at a power plant, and he later took part in attacking a squad of fighter jets that had come for the Decepticons, only for them to be overwhelmed by the Autobots, who had returned from their banishment. {{storylink|Megatron's Master Plan, Part 2}}

When Spike, Carly, and Bumblebee went to the airport to pick up Sparkplug, Spike thought it was suspicious that brightly coloured military jets were at a commercial location such as theirs. Surely enough, they turned out to be Thundercracker and [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]], and the hangar that they flew into was [[Hanger|a new Decepticon base]]. However, the Dinobots showed up to stop them, and [[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]] dispatched the Seekers by tripping them with barrels. Next, [[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]] bombed Thundercracker and Thrust, causing them to crash into the base and destroy it. Slag then sent the two of them flying into an airplane, Thundercracker cushioning Thrust's fall. He got better, and later helped fill energon cubes, and by shooting Mirage, asserted to him that he was not, in fact, invisible. However, Thundercracker did not laugh for long, as his Cybertonium deteriorated and rendered him incapable of transformation. {{storylink|Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 1}}

Thundercracker, Starscream, and Megatron went to go steal [[Professor Haley]]'s [[Voltronic Galaxer]], after which they then boarded Astrotrain with the device and headed to the moon. After capturing [[Cosmos (G1)|a pair]] [[Blaster (G1)|of intruders]], Megatron ordered Starscream and Thundercracker to return to Earth while the galaxer did its work interrupting Earth's radiowaves. As Optimus Prime was directing traffic at an airport, Thundercracker and Starscream unleashed a surprise assault that damaged [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] and Prime. {{storylink|Blaster Blues}} When Starscream tackled Megatron after returning from Camelot, Thundercracker arrived to see what was going on. {{storylink|A Decepticon Raider in King Arthur's Court}}

[[Image:GoldenLagoon-Guards.jpg|thumb|left|210px|Don't try anything funny...]]

Thundercracker and Skywarp also worked as guards for the Decepticons, ensuring that [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]] and [[Seaspray (G1)|Seaspray]] didn't attempt to attack those who had captured them. When a lagoon full of [[electrum]] was discovered, Thundercracker and the other Decepticons took a dive and became invulnerable, showing off their power against the Autobots. He also came on the quest to topple Omega Supreme, but when he and Skywarp went to go retrieve [[Beachcomber (G1)|a prisoner]] at the base, he was defeated. The Decepticons attempted to attack the now electrum-powered Autobots at the lagoon, but their electrum began to wear off and Thundercracker was shot down and they were forced to retreat. {{storylink|The Golden Lagoon}} Thundercracker assisted in guarding the Decepticons' base in the Pine Barrens, {{storylink|Make Tracks}} and came to a valley that was full of [[Morphobot]]s. He went into hiding when an Autobot convoy arrived, and didn't do much else except retreat. {{storylink|Quest for Survival}}

When Astrotrain declared himself leader of the Decepticons, Thundercracker snarked at the idea, and it certainly didn't help when Astrotrain's "troops" got themselves in a mess. He barely escaped with his fellow jets when one of the troops accidentally created a flood. He later made a bet with Thrust and Ramjet (four energon cubes!) over whether or not Megatron will prevail over the rebellious Triple Changers and Devastator. {{storylink|Triple Takeover}}

[[Image:WarDawn-ThundercrackerPounding.jpg|220px|thumb|right|[[Guardian robot|They]] sure used to give us a pounding. By that, I mean we needed plastic surgery.]]

Starscream, Skywarp and Thundercracker had held several humans hostage, so it was only natural they would find the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]] on their tails. Thundercracker got in a dogfight with [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] and [[Slingshot]], and he emerged as the loser, returning to Cybertron for repairs. On Cybertron, the three Seekers caught up with the Aerialbots again, but they were calmed when [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] announced that he simply wanted to talk. Starscream saw this as an opportunity to trick the Aerialbots, but the remaining Autobots discovered their plan. The Seekers tried to ward them off, but Ironhide crashed into them. Eventually, the Decepticons discovered a guardian robot from Cybertron's past, which Thundercracker recalled as "giving them a pounding in the old days". When the Autobots repaired the time machine that had sent the Aerialbots to the past, the Decepticons attacked them with a guardian robot. When it was destroyed by [[Superion (G1)|Superion]], they retreated. {{storylink|War Dawn}} Thundercracker and Skywarp were guarding a space bridge when Starscream flew in and requested to go to Cybertron. The two of them refused to let anybody through without proper authorization, leading Starscream to aim his gun directly in Skywarp's face. They reluctantly let him through. Thundercracker took part in the assault on the traitorous Starscream and his warriors, the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]]. {{storylink|Starscream's Brigade}}

[[Image:StarscreamsBrigade-SpaceBridgeGuards.jpg|thumb|left|240px|You shall not pass!]]

He and Dirge were instructed by Megatron to transport some energon cubes to the space bridge. He was then sent to Cybertron via space bridge with the other Decepticons and the Autobots, who had temporarily made an alliance in order to stop Starscream. {{storylink|The Revenge of Bruticus}} Finally, he took part attacking the Ark and [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]]. {{storylink|B.O.T. (episode)|B.O.T.}}

Thundercracker was present for [[Battle of Autobot City|the Decepticon assault]] on [[Autobot City]] in 2005, and was among the Decepticons gunned down by Optimus Prime. After the battle, Astrotrain transported the Decepticons away, but requested that some dead weight should be jettisoned. The injured Thundercracker, along with Skywarp and the Insecticons, were tossed out of Astrotrain following a decidedly stacked vote.

[[Image:TFTM Thundercracker.jpg|right|250px|thumb|NAZGUUUUL!!]]
That was not, however, entirely the end of Thundercracker's story. [[Unicron]] was waiting in space for a chance like this, and when the newly reborn [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] needed some new troops to command, Thundercracker was among the old Decepticons used as raw materials. His body was used to create [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]]. {{storylink|The Transformers: The Movie}}

Later [[Octane]] would show concern when he ran into a [[Decepticon Crypt]] to hide from Cyclonus, the Sweeps and Scourge and found a statue of Thundercracker there. After apologizing for the intrusion, Octane decided it would be better to hide behind someone else's statue. {{storylink|Starscream's Ghost}}
{{-}}

===Japanese cartoon continuity===

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

Under orders from [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], Thundercracker accompanied [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] in an energy raid on [[Tokyo]]. They succeeded in bombing pedestrians and children until [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and a unit of Autobot vehicles arrived. Though a Decepticon victory seemed assured when they unleashed [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] on their foes, their strategy was undone when the Autobots drove up a ramp at top speed, transformed to vehicle mode and punched everybody in the face. Thundercracker was forced to retreat. {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 1|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers #1}}

Thundercracker later took part in an all-out assault on [[Ark (G1)|Autobot Headquarters]] in [[Arizona]]. The attack was nothing more than a diversion so [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] could go do unspecified ''stuff'' in Japan and the Decepticons were eventually defeated and driven off. {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 2|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers #2}}

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

===S.T.A.R.S. pack-in flyers===
[[Image:PackIn HaveTheDecepticons Inside1.jpg|left|150px|thumb|Somebody told him the femmebots are all into vampires these days.]]
A [[S.T.A.R.S. continuity|series of recruitment messages]] sent by the Autobots to [[human]] allies featured Thundercracker as a recurrent bogeyman. He first appeared in the story of [[Johnny]], a member of [[S.T.A.R.S.]] who spotted Thundercracker draining the energy from the boy's town. Despite all other power being knocked out, Johnny was able to activate his [[Command Center]] and summon an Autobot squad. {{storylink|Have the Decepticons defeated us once and for all?}} However, even they were somewhat affected by Thundercracker's siphoning, and just as Johnny was preparing to issue orders, his Command Center went dead and the walls around him began to shake. {{storylink|Can one boy, alone, hold back the evil Decepticons?}}

[[Image:PackIn RodimusPrimeRemembers Inside2.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"Greatest battle of all time, and Reflector takes the picture when my damn wings are still down. Thanks, buddy."]]

The Autobot messages ended that story there, leaving the outcome unknown. But in later messages, [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]] would recall what he considered [[Digital Doom on the Highway to Destruction|the Transformers' greatest battle on Earth]], in which the only enemy combatants were Megatron and Thundercracker. The two Decepticons set up an ambush for an Autobot convoy searching for a site on which to build [[Autobot City]]. As the battle erupted, Thundercracker again employed his energy-draining attack (described here as a "[[force field]]"). {{storylink|Rodimus Prime remembers the Transformers greatest battle on Earth.}} [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] ordered [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]], [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]], and [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]] to retreat out of the weapon's range and get help, but as they left, Thundercracker pursued. {{storylink|Transformers Combat Data}}

[[Image:Theautobotsareunderattack.jpg|left|150px|thumb|The match-up no one demanded!]]

Again, the story was cut short, but it would not be the last time Thundercracker was said to tangle with that particular group of Autobots. The final S.T.A.R.S. recruitment message told of [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]] discovering that the squad was out scouting for new energy sources, and Thundercracker was sent on a sneak-attack run. The message warned that if the recipient failed to help out by joining S.T.A.R.S., the Autobots might be destroyed. {{storylink|The Autobots Are Under Attack!}}

{{note|Thundercracker's consistent use of an energy-draining weapon is unique to this [[micro-continuity]]. It seems to make him an incredibly dangerous foe; however, given that all of this is literally Autobot propaganda, the "[[Wikipedia:Unreliable narrator|unreliable narrator]]" factor is worth consideration.}}

===''Machine Wars'' toy bio===
The mysterious [[Machine Wars]] were a tumultuous time for Thundercracker. At long last he was convinced of and committed to the truth of the Decepticon cause, but Thundercracker now ironically found himself in open rebellion against Megatron's leadership of the faction. It is unknown what events lead to his reversal of heart about the Decepticons and his being branded a "Rebel Warrior."

{{note|Since no fictional backstory has ever been established for the Machine Wars line it is possible that it is set in some alternate reality where this was simply Thundercracker's nature, but given that the rest of the characters are clearly their classic G1-selves unrevealed events/character development seem more likely explanations.}}

===Dreamwave comics continuity===
{{notekeepers}}

{{charstubfiction}}

One of the first Decepticons recruited by Megatron. Early in Megatron's scheming, Thundercracker was sent to Sector Zero-Six with Skywarp and Starscream. On the way, Starscream unintelligently leaked the plan to Grimlock. {{storylink|DW Preview Special 2002}} During the war, Thundercracker served under Shockwave during the Dark Ages, when Megatron was missing and believed dead. {{storylink|War Within: The Dark Ages}}

Thundercracker was one of several Decepticon invaders on-board the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'' when it crashed into [[Earth]] four million years ago while the Autobot ship was clearing an asteroid in the path of Cybertron. He was reactivated in 1984 with the rest of the Transformers, and fought at Megatron's side until the Decepticons were ultimately defeated. In 2002, he was captured and reprogrammed by arms dealer [[Lazarus|Adam 'Lazarus' Rook]] alongside many other Cybertronians. Lazarus intended to rent out the services of the enslaved robots to various terrorist groups. In a demonstration of their power to a group of prospective clients, Thundercracker participated in an attack on the Arctic division of the Smitco Oil Refinery by blowing something up. {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 2}}

After Megatron reactivated himself, he freed his Decepticon subordinates in order to put forward his plans to infect Earth with a metallic virus of doom. To pass the time while this happened, Starscream, Thundercracker and Skywarp busied themselves by tearing apart the Autobot [[Mini Vehicle]] team. {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 3}} Thundercracker later participated in Megatron's attack on San Francisco, where he followed Starscream's orders to maintain formation and drop cluster bombs on the Autobot giant [[Superion (G1)|Superion]], forcing the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]] to split into their separate component robots. {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 4}} Thundercracker stood watch over the defeated Autobots while Megatron tried to persuade [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] to help the Decepticons conquer Earth. After some human firefighters distracted the Decepticons long enough for Optimus Prime to free the Autobots, Thundercracker was presumably beaten up and escaped when Superion sacrificed himself to stop a nuclear missile launched by rogue US General [[Robert Hallo]]. {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 6}}

''Oddly enough, Thundercracker turned to weapons smuggling after Megatron vanished and the Decepticons were left leaderless, working with [[Mexico|Mexican]] arms dealers south of the border. He was moored at [[Mesa Verde|Atahulpa Aeropuerto de Mesa Verde]], getting his cargo hold loaded with guns, when [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] and [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] sieged the tiny airport. As his human allies scattered, Thundercracker transformed and engaged the Autobots with his drone missile launchers. One of the guided projectiles nearly blasted Prowl in the back, but Bumblebee knocked it off course... right into a tanker filled with jet fuel. The resulting explosion was catastrophic, and threw the Autobots for a loop. Thundercracker was prepared to finish off Prowl when the renegade [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobot]] named [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] arrived on the scene. Fresh for battle, Grimlock easily defeated Thundercracker, battering him from head to toe before knocking him into the airport terminal. {{storylink|Hardwired}}''

{{note|Thundercracker's smuggling operation may have been connected to Starscream supplying advanced weapons technology to his human servants in [[Las Vegas]], but this was never made clear.}}
''Recovering from his injuries, Thundercracker joined up with Starscream and his forces in "[[Las Vegas|New Centurion]]" (formerly Las Vegas) some time before Megatron returned to Earth with the nigh-invincible aliens known as the [[Keeper (species)|Keepers]] in tow. He got another chance at Prowl and Bumblebee while fighting on the Strip, but the Autobots were better prepared this time and Thundercracker was brought down by Prowl's wire-guided missiles and crashed in front of Caesar's Palace. He revived in time to join Soundwave in double-teaming Grimlock, who had also come in the assault on Las Vegas. Unfortunately, Thundercracker once again fell before the Dinobot's superior might after only a few blows. He stayed under Starscream's command after Megatron returned, remaining in Las Vegas while the former Decepticon leader and those loyal to him quit the city. This only led to Thundercracker being captured with the rest of Starscream's Decepticons when their leader was killed by the Keepers and reanimated as a host body for their awesome power. Thundercracker, Skywarp and the others were trapped beneath a massive energy field, like mice in a cage to the god-like aliens.''

''The [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] eventually dug a tunnel to freedom, and Thundercracker's group of Decepticons reunited with Megatron, working with the Autobots against the Keepers. Thundercracker joined [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] and the Autobot [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] on air patrol during the fight with the Keepers, strafing the aliens and their puppets, [[Bluestreak]] and Starscream. He survived the battle with the Keepers (not to mention the nuclear missile launched by the American government) thanks to Optimus Prime super-charging the [[Matrix]] with a pool of newly discovered energon. {{storylink|Annihilation}}''

''Thundercracker began working for Megatron again, and was present in the Nevada desert when the Autobots and Decepticons confronted the United States military. Thanks to their airborne tactics, Thundercracker and Skywarp did significant injury to the troops and survived the [[deconstructionite]] assault virtually unscathed. {{storylink|Fusion (novel)|Fusion}}''

After [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] had defeated Megatron and brought the Decepticons back to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], Thundercracker and Skywarp spent their time relaxing and bathing, though Thundercracker was skeptical of Shockwave's new order, and compared its promised benefits to the benefits originally promised by Megatron. {{storylink|Cold War}}

Starscream eventually brought the Nemesis crew back to Earth and led them in a battle against the Autobots who had stayed behind there. {{storylink|Night of the Combaticons}} Thundercracker was among those captured by the Autobots, but was eventually freed in exchange for Starscream's assistance in fighting against [[Sunstorm (G1)|Sunstorm]]. They were only given half-power, though, and had to stumble out of the Autobot camp in an extremely weakened condition. {{storylink|Skyfire (issue)|Skyfire}} Hardly the sort of leadership they had in mind, Thundercracker and the other Decepticons eagerly re-accepted Megatron as their leader when he returned to Earth and chastised Starscream for his incompetence and treachery. {{storylink|The Route of All Evil}}

===''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers''===
[[Image:GIJoevsTF1_Seeker.jpg|right|thumb|200px|]]
Thundercracker was one of the many Transformers found dormant aboard the ''Ark'' by [[Cobra]], who reprogrammed the alien robots to serve them. After rebuilding Thundercracker and Skywarp into [[Rattler]] planes, Cobra sent them to attack a peace ceremony at [[Washington, D.C.]], where one of the Seekers was the first of the attackers to reveal their [[transformation]] ability before punching [[Ace]] out of the sky. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 1}}

Eventually, the Decepticons were freed from Cobra's control, and Thundercracker and Skywarp started fighting against the newly freed Autobots. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 5}} When the [[SPS Satellite]] went out of control and sent enerby beams raining down on [[Cobra Island]], the two Seekers were caught in its blasts and deactivated. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 6}}

{{note|Thundercracker and Skywarp are identical in this series, so it's possible that Thundercracker was also the one to kill [[Major Bludd]] in [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 4|issue 4]]. It seems more like something Skywarp would do, though.}}
{{-}}
===''Transformers Legends'' anthology===
Thundercracker and Skywarp were getting bawled out by Megatron when the news came in that Starscream had injured himself. When they went to retrieve Starscream, the Seeker was gone, and Thundercracker pointed out the Autobot tire-marks leading away from the area. He later totally bought Screamer's story that he'd been feigning amnesia to gain access to the Autobot base. {{storylink|Redemption Center}}

===IDW comics continuity===
{{ongoing}}
[[Image:MegatronOrigin4 Thundercracker Skywarp.jpg|left|450px|thumb|"When I joined this murderous terrorist group, I wasn't ever intending to shoot at anyone!"]]
Thundercracker and his fellow Seekers were recruited into Megatron's [[Gladiatorial combat|underground fights]] when Soundwave was sent to recruit flight capable warriors. However, Megatron did not intend for them to be pit fighters, but his new warriors. After being given [[weapons systems]] by [[Hook (G1)|Hook]], the Seekers went and kidnapped [[Decimus|Senator Decimus]], who was to be executed at Megatron's recruitment rally. However, the [[Sentinel Prime (G1)|Sentinel Prime]] and the Autobots arrived and arrested the whole of them. {{storylink|Megatron Origin issue 3}} After Starscream killed the [[Kaon Council]] and liberated them, Megatron launched his new "Decepticons" in an "Everything burns" offensive on Kaon. Thundercracker and Skywarp were sent to target a ship carrying the wealthy and elite. Thundercracker expressed some reservations about attacking the ship, but Skywarp gave him simple advice: "Don't think. Just do it." {{storylink|Megatron Origin issue 4}}

[[Image:Infiltration0 Thundercracker.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Tha-Boom, I want you in my room...]]
Millions of years later, Thundercracker operated as part of a Decepticon [[Infiltration protocol|insurgent cell]] that had operated covertly on Earth for at least four years, working to destabilize Earth's governing organizations and create global anarchy. He was known to the Autobots as a professional soldier, in contrast to the likes of the Battlechargers.

He, [[Runabout]] and [[Runamuck (G1)|Runamuck]] were assigned by [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] to intercept the human [[Stoker]] and retrieve his [[SM-40]] palmtop PC, containing data on their [[Nebraska]] operation. The team caught up with and killed Stoker outside Phoenix, AZ, but the [[SM-40]] was missing. Thundercracker tracked the device to [[Hunter O'Nion]] and [[Verity Carlo]], but was driven off by [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]], {{storylink|Infiltration issue 0}} who managed to temporarily lose him and the two [[Battlecharger|Battlechargers]]. After picking Ratchet up again, Thundercracker was later shot down by [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]], [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] and [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]]. {{storylink|Infiltration issue 2}} When Megatron arrived on Earth to take command of Starscream's infiltration team, Thundercracker, along with the other Decepticons, were unwilling to stand against him when the Decepticon leader ordered them to stand down. {{storylink|Infiltration issue 6}}

After Megatron trashed Starscream, Thundercracker and the other Decepticons were only all too willing to accept Megatron's leadership once again. The Decepticons took up temporary residence in an [[array]] structure in [[Latveria]]. There, Megatron activated the [[Psycho-Prism]] he had stolen from [[Doctor Doom]]. The Psycho-Prism emitted an aggression wave that acted on humans, increasing international tensions in the area. Megatron sent Thundercracker an Skywarp to bomb the neighboring country of [[Symkaria]] so they would blame Latveria and start a war. After their return the Decepticon array was being besieged by Autobots and [[Avengers]]. Along with the other Decepticons (except [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]), Thundercraker powered-up with the captured [[Spider-Man]]'s super powers as part of [[mirror response mode]]. Thundercraker, Runabout, and Runamuck left the array to confront the Autobots and Avengers outside. Thundercracker shot and injured Optimus Prime. {{storylink|Man and Machine, Part Two}}

After shooting [[Ms. Marvel]] and getting chased by [[Captain America]] in the [[Quinjet]], Thundercraker was brought down by a blast from [[Iron Man]] in Transformer-sized armor. {{storylink|Man and Machine, Part Three}} He laid there until Megatron called for a retreat via [[emergency warp-out]]. {{storylink|Man and Machine, Part Four}}

Thundercracker and Skywarp were sent to destroy the El Jira power plant in the middle east to inflame global tensions and spark a global energy shortage. {{storylink|Escalation issue 2}} During the battle of [[Brasnya]], the sorely-pressed Skywarp teleported Thundercracker in to try and stop [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] from escaping with the [[Georgi Koska]] facimile. {{storylink|Escalation issue 6}}

[[Image:Devastation1 Ruining Everything.jpg|left|300px|thumb|Megatron's lost it! It must be a Tuesday.]]
Thundercracker was among the concerned Decepticons who feared that Megatron had made a serious error in judgement by bringing the destructive [[Sixshot]] to Earth, and so conspired to bring Starscream back into the fold to talk some sense into their leader. {{storylink|Devastation issue 1}} Though outnumbered and outgunned, the Decepticons fought valiantly when the [[Reaper|Reapers]] attacked, and with a little help from [[Galvatron (G1)|a mysterious combatant]], they managed to defeat the alien invaders. {{storylink|Devastation issue 6}}

Sometime after that (we think), Thundercracker was on Cybertron watching the experiments to create [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]]. He was outraged by the existence of the [[Insecticon swarm|Swarm]], freakish monsters created as a side-effect, and demanded Megatron euthanised them rather than allowing fellow Decepticons to endure such torturous existence. Megatron, shockingly, didn't give a toss. A while later, Thundercracker helped defeat the Autobots staying on Earth. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 7}}

A year on from the Reaper battle, Thundercracker was part of the Decepticon attack on [[New York City]]. Unlike his comrades, he showed no enthusiasm for mindless slaughter and could be seen staring at the devastation Megatron left in his wake. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 1}} When Megatron later made his propaganda speech, Thundercracker looked unimpressed. (Having to stand outside when it was pissing down probably didn't help) {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 4}}
{{-}}

[[Image:AHM12_Betrayer.jpg|right|200px|thumb|How DARE you act like your [[bio]] suggests you should act!]]

Thundercracker came to the aid of Skywarp when the latter was being threatened by [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]]. While Skywarp enjoyed working with his pal Thundercracker again, he also noted that Thundercracker hadn't actually participated in any of the fighting since the initial strike. Thundercracker for his part looked about as depressed as a robot CAN look, suggesting he was unhappy about the invasion plan, or at least the gratuitous death and destruction some of the others had caused. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 6}} When Starscream betrayed Megatron and sent the Insecticons and [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] to attack him, Thundercracker merely stood back and watched. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 10}} He was later seen fighting back against human jets sent from [[Europe]]. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 11}}

When Megatron ordered [[Octane|Tankor]] to destroy New York City using a nuclear bomb, Thundercracker volunteered himself to redirect it. When questioned, he said that in his opinion, the Decepticons had lost their way, and the mass slaughter of unworthy foes was dishonorable. He succeeded in redirecting the bomb, but was then confronted by a furious Skywarp, who was outraged at the idea of a Seeker "betrayer" and, despite Thundercracker's attempts to explain his position, blasted him point-blank in the head. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 12}}

Thundercracker survived, albeit heavily injured and incapable of traveling far. As he made his way to a ruined New York skyscraper which human cleanup crews likely wouldn't reach for months, he reflected on how life on Earth was always changing and always found a way to survive. He eventually managed to construct a distress beacon, and as he waited for his fellow Decepticons to find him, he also got a [[television]] working. For the next two and a half years, Thundercracker spent his time watching human programs and growing increasingly fascinated with their ever-changing world and society. Eventually, he was found by a ragtag team of 'cons left behind on the planet, who repaired him and hoped that he, as an elite Seeker, would lead them. Thundercracker refused, as he saw no point in a warrior leading the team, since the war was over for them. {{storylink|Seasons in Flight}}

Instead, [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] took command, and led Thundercracker and the others for a revenge attack on [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]]. They changed their mind, however, and instead offered to help [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] and his group leave Earth. {{storylink|New Arrivals, Old Encounters}} As Thundercracker helped them construct a ship, he thought about how Swindle had to be planning something, and how he felt remorse for the Autobots and how lost they were. His thoughts strayed back to the humans and their ever-changing world, comparing them to his own so-called "transforming" race that had remained the same for millions of years. While Thundercracker used to laugh at it, he now saw the beauty of Earth, where every act of destruction was also an act of creation. He knew that they had a lot to learn from the humans, but all his fellow Transformers wanted to do was to run away. {{storylink|Seasons in Flight}}

Thundercracker watched from the sidelines as Ultra Magnus confronted Hot Rod's group for a second time, and witnessed Swindle's unveiling of [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]]. {{storylink|Enemies of the System}} While the other Decepticons turned on their Autobot "comrades", Thundercracker remained true to his honor. He saved [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] during a scrap with [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]], and proceeded to help Rodimus as well. {{storylink|Earthworks}}

Months later, Bumblebee contacted Thundercracker, asking him for help in getting the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]] out of [[North Korea]]. {{storylink|International Incident Part 2: "Ranks of Bronze"}}
{{-}}

==Commercial apperances==
Thundercracker snuck his way into several bits of original [[commercial]] animation:
* He appears in the first Transformers animation, a 1984 commercial advertising the Marvel comic. He is animated with an early model featuring a black face.

* He appears alongside Starscream in a commercial for Jetfire, strafing three Autobot cars. Later Jetfire shoots him down, forcing him and Starscream to transform and land.

* Thundercracker and the other two jets get beat up by the Dinobots in a commercial for the Predacons.

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
[[Image:Redeco.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Thundercracker is the cheap and lazy redeco on the right.]]
* '''Thundercracker''' (Decepticon Jet, 1984/1985/1986/2001/2003/2008)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''24'''
**''Accessories'': Left & right fists, landing gear, 2 rocket launchers, 2 rockets, 2 "Incendiary Gun" missiles

: {{note|For some reason, the stats on Skywarp's, Starscream's and Thundercracker's tech specs were switched around. Thundercracker was given Skywarp's numbers.}}

: Originally a ''[[Diaclone]]'' "Jet Robo Acrobat-Type", Thundercracker transforms into an F-15 Eagle fighter jet, sharing his mold with his teammates [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]. Many parts need to be removed completely from transformation from robot to jet and back, which nowadays is considered a major drawback of the toy. It is difficult to find it complete, as neither mode can hold all the pieces required. There are a few minor mold variations of this toy (common for the first two years of ''Transformers'', really), the most immediately noticeable being that early versions did not have visible "clip-tabs" on the inner face of the gauntlets.

: In 1986, he was made available as a mail-away item (as he was no longer shipping to retail shelves) in the "[[Digital Doom on the Highway to Destruction]]" flier packed with most boxed ''Transformers'' toys. He cost $10 and two [[Robot Point|robot points]].

: In 2001, Thundercracker was given a short-run re-issue by [[Takara]] as a convention-[[exclusive]] item. The toy would later be more extensively released as part of the [[Hasbro]] [[Commemorative Series]] line, though due to US [[For safety reasons|toy-safety regulations]], his missiles were made extra-long.

: In August, 2008, Thundercracker was reissued with Skywarp as number 11 in Takara's [[Encore|Transformers Encore]] line. This version used a slightly different shade of blue and had painted stripes and symbols instead of using stickers.

: This mold is also used by [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]], [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]], [[Sunstorm (G1)|Sunstorm]] and [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]].

{{-}}{{anchor|ActionMaster}}
[[Image:Thundercrackeram.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Do not look directly at him, unless you have sunglasses and/or Pepto Bismol handy.]]
* '''Thundercracker (Action Master)''' (Action Master Exo-suit, 1991)
**''Accessories'': "Solo Mission Jet Plane", 2 missiles

: Released only in European and Australasian markets, once again Thundercracker was a [[redeco]] of Starscream, a non-transforming action figure that combined elements of both the character's cartoon model and toy-form. Like all [[Action Master|Action Masters]], Thundercracker was a non-transformable action figure with a transformable accessory — in his case, a Solo Mission Jet Plane vehicle that converted into [[Action Master Exo-suit| Exo-suit]] battle armor. However, unlike most of Thundercracker's appearances, Action Master Thundercracker is not in his traditional blue and silver colors, but rather in [[Neon|magenta, purple, blue, gold, and two shades of green]]. ''(Oy.)''

{{-}}
===Machine Wars===
[[Image:MWThundercracker toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|No, seriously, this guy is Thundercracker.]]
* '''Thundercracker''' (Basic, 1996)
**''Accessories'': Two-part rifle

: Sharing a mold once again with [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]], Thundercracker transforms into a green Dassault Rafale fighter jet with spring-loaded one-step transformation from jet to robot. The two halves of his rifle store in his lower legs. Like all ''[[Machine Wars]]'' toys, Thundercracker was an [[exclusive]] to Kay-Bee stores and related stores like Toy Liquidators.

: This mold was also used to make ''[[Beast Wars II (franchise)|Beast Wars II]]'' [[Dirge (BWII)|Dirge]], ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Skyfire (RID)|Skyfire]], ''[[Robot Masters]]'' [[Wingstun]], and the "[[Dawn of Future's Past]]" version of [[Waspinator (BW)|Waspinator]].

{{-}}
===Smallest Transforming Transformers===
* '''Thundercracker''' (2004)

: Part of the third wave of ''[[Smallest Transforming Transformers]]'' product (dubbed wave "2.5" and available only at CVS stores in Japan), Thundercracker is ''again'' a redeco of Starscream. Like all toys in the line, Thundercracker is a tiny, even more simplified version of the original toy, transforming into an F-15 fighter jet. These toys were sold in "blind-packed" boxes, so you could not know which one you had until you actually opened the box. To complicate matters further, Thundercracker was a [[chase figure]], one of two in his wave (the other was a cartoon-colored version of Optimus Prime's trailer).

: The same mold is used by ''Smallest Transforming Transformers'' Skywarp and Thrust.

{{-}}
===Robot Masters===
[[Image:RobotMastersThundercracker.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Light blue? Totally neon.]]
* '''Skywarp & Thundercracker''' (Multi-pack, 2005)
**''Accessories'': 2 rifles, 2 missile pods

: ''[[Robot Masters]]'' Thundercracker is a redeco of [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] from the same series, a smaller yet more advanced version of the original toy, adding more articulation and reducing the amount of [[Partformer|part-forming]] required. He was available only in a two-pack with [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]], which also came with a Decepticon sigil pin and chromed missile pods. This set was the very last product released in the ''Robot Masters'' line, and wasn't even strictly sold in a box from that series; instead, it used an e-Hobby Generation 1 reissue box, with a small "''Robot Masters''" sticker in the corner tab noting its origin from the front.

{{-}}
===Titanium Series===
[[Image:TitaniumHeroesWWThundercracker.jpg|right|300px|thumb|I don't think I have enough little wings on my shoulders.]]
* '''Thundercracker''' (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2006)

: [[Titanium Series]] Thundercracker is based upon his appearance in [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]]'s ''[[The War Within]]''. He transforms into a Cybertronian 'tetrajet', as reimagined by [[Don Figueroa]]. As with all 6-inch Titanium Cybertron Heroes, he is constructed mostly of fully painted die-cast metal.

: This mold was redecoed into ''[[War Within (toyline)|War Within]]'' Starscream, Sunstorm, Skywarp and Thrust.

: Yes. Thundercracker was here first.
{{-}}

===Timelines===
[[Image:Classics Thundercracker Toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|You want me, but you can't have me!]]
*'''Games of Deception!''' (Multi-pack, 2007)
**''Accessories'': Left & right launchers, 2 missiles

: Thundercracker is part of the ''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]''-themed [[BotCon 2007]] box set, along with [[Bug Bite (G1)|Bugbite]], [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]], [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]], and [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]]. Thundercracker is a [[redeco]] of the ''Classics'' Starscream toy using the modified version first seen with Skywarp.

: ''Classics'' Thundercracker is a faithful reproduction of his original toy, but with modern standards of toy engineering, transformation, sculpting detail and articulation. He transforms into an F-15 Eagle, but has the nose of an F-14 Tomcat fighter jet. His color scheme is inspired by the original figure released in 1984, but with a shade of blue closer to that of the original [[Diaclone]] version.

: In robot mode, Thundercracker is essentially a very detailed version of his cartoon robot mode. He is armed with two null-ray missile launchers which are so large that they restrict his arm movement due to them bumping into his wings.

: There were only 1500 ''Classics'' Thundercracker figures produced.

:This mold was used for Henkei! Thundercracker.

{{-}}
===Henkei! Henkei!===
[[Image:Henkei Thundercracker toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb| You can have me . . . but you might not want me.]]
*'''Thundercracker''' (Deluxe, 2008)
**''Accessories:'' 2 missile launchers (left and right), 2 missiles

: ''[[Henkei! Henkei! (toyline)|Henkei! Henkei!]]'' Thundercracker is a Genbo store exclusive redeco of ''Henkei! Henkei!'' [[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]]. He features a metallic flake blue version of his cartoon clour scheme, rather than his darker blue Generation 1 toy colour scheme. ''Henkei'' Thundercracker and his fellow [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]] [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] were opened for pre-order on [[May 22]]nd through [[June 20]], and mailed out in September 2008.

:Soon after release, there were numerous complaints from both Japanese and Western collectors about the poor quality control for both Thundercracker and Skywarp. Thundercracker in particular suffered from a widespread issue where his missile launchers did not fit into the holes in his shoulders, due to the holes being too big. Some reported both toys suffering misassembly issues such as having two left or two right thighs.

:Several minor changes were made to this mold for this release. The holes for his missile launchers in his arms were widened, but not the launcher's insertion pegs. The wing's missile launcher insertion points were lengthened and are now curved at the end. The last rectangle on his air intakes, was further modified from the Classics version this time the bottom most rectangle goes completely across the air intake's surface rather than just the center. ''Henkei'' Skywarp and ''[[Universe (2008 toyline)|Universe]]'' [[Starscream (G1)/toys#Generation 1 Series|Starscream]] also saw most of these changes.

{{-}}

===Masterpiece===
[[Image:MP Thundercracker toy.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Hey, at least I'm ''meant'' to be [[Starscream (G1)/toys#Masterpiece|blue]].]]
* '''Thundercracker''' (2008)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''MP-7'''
**''Accessories:'' 2 "Machine Guns", 2 AIM missile racks, Doctor Arkeville pilot, Megatron Gun clasp, display stand

:A redeco of ''Masterpiece'' Starscream, ''[[Masterpiece]]'' Thundercracker was released in Japan in November 2008. He comes with all the accessories of the previous Seekers including the display stand, [[Doctor Arkeville]] (cast with blue skin), stickers and the clip to hold gun-mode Megatron that came with ''Masterpiece'' Convoy while in jet-mode. Also like Starscream and Skywarp, Thundercracker features two swappable faces; the normal emotionless face which is retooled from Starscream's original one, and a new growling one which appears to be an attempt to make him seem very angry... very angry indeed. Unfortunately the effect leaves him looking like he's on a trip to the dentist. He is covered with a glossy finish just like Skywarp.

:''Masterpiece'' Thundercracker features an assembly error: His left and right pectorals are flipped. This misassembly does not affect transformation at all, and is most noticeable when compared to prior Masterpiece Seekers. The 2008 pressing of ''Masterpiece'' Skywarp also features this part swap.

:It is a common misconception that the stoic face on Takara's ''Masterpiece'' Starscream, Skywarp, and Thundercracker are the same, when all of them are in fact different sculpts.

{{-}}

===Alternity===
*'''Thundercracker Sonic Blue''' (2010)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''A-04'''

:Thundercracker is a redeco of ''[[Alternity (franchise)|Alternity]]'' [[Skywarp (G1)#Alternity|Skywarp]], transforming into a licensed 1:32 scale [[wikipedia:Mitsuoka_Orochi|Mitsuoka Orochi]]. Thundercracker replaces Skywarp's purple, flat black, light purple, and metallic gray for metallic blue, glossy black, light blue, and silver. Like the other toys in the line, he features [[die-cast]] metal parts and rubber tires, as well as an opening hood, trunk and doors. In car mode, small wings can be flipped out from under Thundercracker's rear wheels, giving him the appearance of a flying car.

:The original version of this mold was used by ''Alternity'' [[Starscream (G1)/toys#Alternity|Starscream]] and Skywarp.

==Merchandise==
===Decoy===
* '''Thundercracker''' (1986)
**''Decoy ID number'': '''34'''

: [[Decoy]] Thundercracker is a tiny rubber figure randomly packed with [[Throttlebot]]s, [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]], [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]], [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] in 1986. As the figure is one solid color (purple or red, with the red versions only being available for a short while and only with Throttlebots), Thundercracker is only differentiated from Starscream and Skywarp by holding his right arm up in the air.

===Super Collection Figure===
[[Image:HOC_Thundercracker.jpg|thumb|right|250px|]]
* '''Thundercracker''' (2001)

: ''[[Super Collection Figure]]'' Thundercracker is a non-transforming three-inch tall figure, and a redeco of SCF Starscream. He was released in the fourth wave of the series, and came with the left leg of that wave's "Build-A-Figure", [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]].

: This mold was also used to make [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]], [[Sunstorm (G1)|Sunstorm]] and the [[Air Warrior]]s in the ''[[Heroes of Cybertron]]'' line (see below).

===Heroes of Cybertron===
* '''Thundercracker''' (2003)

: ''[[Heroes of Cybertron]]'' was the Western release of ''Super Collection Figures'', and differ in that they were given a [[light-piping]] gimmick due to being molded entirely from translucent red or blue plastic and leaving the eyes and back of the head unpainted. Thundercracker was part of the second wave of HOCs. The pectorals are painted gray (instead of white on the SCF) and his hands black (instead of gray).

* '''Decepticon''' (2003)

: Thundercracker was also available in a six-pack with Starscream, Skywarp and three [[Air Warrior]]s. This set was offered by [[3H Productions|3H]] at [[The Official Transformers Collectors Convention|OTFCC 2003]] and elsewhere.

{{-}}

===MyClone===
* '''Thundercracker''' (2003)

: A redeco of [[MyClone]] Starscream, Thundercracker a small [[super deformed]] figure who, due to a generic base body, can be easily disassembled and have his parts swapped with other MyClones. Thundercracker was a [[chase figure]] in the second wave of Transformers MyClones, along with [[Galvatron (G1)/toys|Lava Galvatron]].

===Titanium Series===
[[Image:Titanium-toy RMThundercracker.JPG|right|200px|thumb|Complete with rocket exhaust. Or possibly [[Goo]]. Or possibly oh dear god please let it be rocket exhaust or Goo.]]
* '''Thundercracker''' (3" Robot Masters, 2006)
**''Accessories:'' Display stand

: A redeco of "Robot Masters" Starscream, Thundercracker is a small, non-transforming die-cast metal figurine based on his cartoon [[character model]]. He is sculpted holding a gun in his left hand and stretching out his right arm, while using his feet-jets to fly up.
{{-}}

===Robot Heroes===
[[Image:Robotheroesjazzthundercracker.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Now who's geeky?]]
* '''Jazz Vs Thundercracker''' (2007)

: A redeco of ''[[Robot Heroes]]'' Starscream, Thundercracker is a two inch high figure sculpted in a [[super deformed]] style and articulated at the shoulders. He was available in a two-pack with [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]]. This mold was later redecoed as Skywarp in the "Decepticon Sneak Attack" set.

{{-}}

===Palisades===
[[Image:PalisadesThundercracker.jpg|thumb|Thundercracker [[Wikipedia:Jeff Dunham|on a ''stiiick'']].]]
* '''Thundercracker''' (Palisades, 2005)

:A [[Palisades|Palisades Direct]]-exclusive redeco of the Starscream statue, Thundercracker is a six inch tall polystone statue with articulated head and arms. He can stand normally or use a stand to take on a "hovering" pose. Thundercracker was limited to 300 pieces, and sculpted by [[3L Creation Group]] from a design by [[George Tremarco]].

{{-}}
===Transformers - Mini Bust===
[[Image:DST08_ThundercrackerBust.jpg|right|thumb|200px|]]
* '''Thundercracker''' (Diamond Select, 2008)
:Released by Diamond Select Toys in 2008, Thundercracker was first exclusive to the New York Comic Con and later on offered by online retailer Big Bad Toy Store. He was sculpted by [[Mark Wong]] of [[Art Asylum]] and limited to 400 pieces.

{{-}}

==Notes==
* The mold for ''Machine Wars'' Thundercracker was originally developed for ''[[Generation 2 (toyline)|Generation 2]]'', but was canceled when that line went under. It is unknown if it was intended to be a new character or a recurring one, though odds are it would have been later [[Redeco|redecoed]] into a recurring character if the former was true.

* A redeco of the ''Classics'' Seeker mold as Action Master Thundercracker was originally going to be the attendee freebie figure for [[BotCon 2010|BotCon 2010]], but the mold was being used for ''Generations'' Thrust by Hasbro at the time and thus unavailable. So [[Fun Publications|Fun Publications]] opted to produce [[Slicer|Slice]] instead.

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

[[Category:Action Masters]]
[[Category:Alternity characters]]
[[Category:Classics characters]]
[[Category:Convention exclusives]]
[[Category:KB Toys exclusives]]
[[Category:Decepticons]]
[[Category:Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category:Generation 2 characters]]
[[Category: Henkei! Henkei! characters]]
[[Category:Machine Wars characters]]
[[Category:Mail order items]]
[[Category:MyClone]]
[[Category:Robot Masters characters]]
[[Category:Seekers]]
[[Category:Robot Heroes]]
[[Category:Timelines characters]]
[[Category:Titanium Series]]

File:HHero OptimusStatue.jpg

2010-11-16T01:22:07Z

MrBlud:

Thundercracker (G1)

2010-11-16T01:19:44Z

MrBlud: /* Transformers - Mini Bust */

{{factions|decepticon|decepticong2}}
{{picsneeded|fictional appearances, original toy solo pic}}
{{disambig3|Thundercracker}}
:''Thundercracker is a [[Decepticon]] from the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:Thundercrackerg1guido.jpg|right|300px|thumb|The blue one. No, the other blue one.]]
'''Thundercracker''' claims the skies as his arena. He looks down in contempt on those who cannot leave the ground — he considers them lesser beings. He will often attack the flightless beings below him for no other reason than to satisfy his scorn.

His superiority in this realm is the only thing he is sure of. Thundercracker is not entirely committed to the Decepticon cause, and even has some seemingly contradictory sympathy for the [[human]]s they terrorize. Fear of retribution from [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] and the influence of his peers is usually enough to bury these doubts. Regardless, he needs constant reassurance that he's where he needs to be. Sometimes, his [[Spark|heart's]] just not in the job.

{{bigquote|[[Human|These creatures]] were never worthy adversaries. The Decepticons are forged through combat, not slaughter.|Thundercracker|[[All Hail Megatron issue 12|''All Hail Megatron'' #12]]}}

:''French-Canadian name:'' '''Coup de Tonnerre''' ("Thunderclap")
:''Chinese name (Taiwan):'' '''Lìeh Léi''' (裂雷, "Cracking Thunder") / '''Léi-gōng''' (雷公, "[[wikipedia:Lei Gong|Duke of Thunder]]")
:''Chinese name (China):'' '''Jing Tian Léi''' (驚天雷, "Sky-shocking Thunder")
:''Hungarian name:'' '''Villámcsapás''' ("Lightning strike")
:''Italian name:'' '''Vampiro''' ("Vampire")
:''Portuguese name (Portugal comics):'' '''Grande Trovão''' ("Big Thunder")
:''Portugese name (Brazil comics):'' '''Arrasador''' ("Destroyer")

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Generation 1====
{{noteukonly}}
[[Image:Introdump decepticons marvelus01.jpg|left|300px|thumb|Thundercracker is the one that is not Skywarp.]]
Thundercracker was one of [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron's]] troops who attacked the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] during its mission to clear a path for [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] through an asteroid field. He was deactivated when it crashed on [[Earth]], and he lay dormant for four million years. When he and his fellow Decepticons awoke, Thundercracker was given a new [[alternate mode]], that of an Earth jet. {{storylink|The Transformers (issue)|The Transformers}} He aided the Decepticons in their building of their new base constructed of parts from [[Harrison Nuclear Power Plant]] and joined in their attack on [[Sparkplug Witwicky]]'s auto repair shop. After the successful abduction of Sparkplug Witwicky, Thundercracker, [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]], and [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] defended their base from [[Autobot|Autobots]], though [[Gears (G1)|Gears]] and [[Spider-Man]] were able to sneak through and rescue Sparkplug. {{storylink|Prisoner of War!}}

''On another occasion, he and Skywarp made a strafing run on two Autobot spies, [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] and [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]]. Jazz was deafened and blasted off the road, but Sunstreaker led them into a human military zone, prompting Megatron to call them back to base. {{storylink|Perchance to Dream}}''

Though Sparkplug Witwicky was able to devise a way for the Decepticons to convert Earth fuel into a usable substance, he also poisoned the result, so Thundercracker and his fellow Decepticons were immobilized at the climax of their would-be final battle with the Autobots. {{storylink|The Last Stand}} The Decepticon [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] took command of the Decepticons and the Ark shortly thereafter, and nursed Thundercracker and his comrades back to full health. Thundercracker may have helped Shockwave attempt to capture and brainwash [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] into a Decepticon, or it may have been Skywarp. It's hard to tell. {{storylink|Plight of the Bumblebee!}}

He served the Decepticon cause up until he was deactivated while battling [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] and placed in prison stasis at Autobot headquarters. {{storylink|Command Performances!}}

''Like Starscream and [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]], he revived early and soon quickly escaped from the Ark. He, Frenzy and Shockwave were then temporarily displaced to [[Limbo]] when [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]], [[Kup (G1)|Kup]] and [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] time-jumped from 2006. {{storylink|Target: 2006}}''

During a massive battle between the Autobots and Decepticons on Earth's moon, Thundercracker and the other Decepticons held in stasis aboard the Ark were liberated by the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] and subsequently brought back on-line. {{storylink|Totaled!}} Much later, Thundercracker manned the battle stations with his fellow Decepticons when [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] reported an intruder. {{storylink|Cold War!}} He next attacked an [[Underbase]]-powered Starscream in [[Tokyo]], but both he and Skywarp were destroyed by their former flying partner. {{storylink|Dark Star (issue)|Dark Star}}

====''Generation 2''====
Thundercracker was active on Earth during the Decepticons' major offensive against the human population, and was present when Megatron stole the [[Matrix of Leadership|Creation Matrix]] from [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]]. {{storylink|The Gathering Darkness}} He later served in the Tykos raid, albeit in a menial role.

Starscream thinks he's a moron. {{storylink|New Dawn}}

====''Classics''====
After being revived from a state of near death, Thundercracker couldn't bring himself to serve with Starscream, the bot who killed him, and so he joined [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]'s Decepticon faction instead of his old leader Megatron's group. Of course, he ended up unable to control himself due to the [[Cerebro-shell|cerebro-shells]] of his latest maniacal boss, [[Bug Bite (G1)|Bug Bite]], so... tough break. To make matters worse, he had to listen to [[Weirdwolf]]. Even under Bug Bite's control, he threatened bodily harm if Weirdwolf didn't shut up.

Under Bug Bite's control, he fired a cerebro-shell at Skywarp, and was forced to help enslave Megatron and his forces. He was liberated by the interference of [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] and [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]. {{storylink|Games of Deception}}

Thundercracker was repaired and brought back on-line by Megatron. He was apparently willing to put aside his animosity towards Starscream at this point in order to serve under his glorious leader once more. When Megatron staged an attack on Bludgeon, he placed Thundercracker in command of one of the three warships. {{storylink|At Fight's End}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====''The Transformers'' cartoon====
:''Voice actor:'' [[John Stephenson]], [[Wally Burr]] ("[[War Dawn]]" only) (English), [[Yū Shimaka|Yutaka Shimaka]] (Japanese), [[Jacques Ferrière]] (French)

[[Image:Tetrajet seekers.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Cybertron alt-mode (on the right). Out of all the pre-earth alt modes, these pyramid jets seem to be the only ones anyone really cares about.]]

In the early days of the Decepticon rebellion, Thundercracker and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] both faced the powerful protectors of [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron's]] cities, the [[Guardian Robots]]. According to Thundercracker, he was often not very successful. {{storylink|War Dawn}}

Thundercracker was one of [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron's]] elite warriors, participating in the attack on the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] and joining the rest of the Earth-bound Transformers in their several-million-year nap under an inactive volcano. He awoke when the rest of the Decepticons did, and took part in their attempts to gather [[Energon (fuel)|energon]] and escape the planet [[Earth]], which he loathed for being too "flat". It was he and [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]] who spotted the first "potential Autobot", when in fact they had discovered the planet's native inhabitants, two [[human]]s, in a non-sentient vehicle. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 1}}

Megatron took the Decepticons to [[Sherman Dam]], a major source of energy. The Autobots, upon discovering their plot, soon arrived to prevent their ambition from becoming reality. Thundercracker and Skywarp fought off [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] and [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]], only for Mirage to make a recovery and send the two Seekers off the bridge they were standing on. They were at least able to recover in time to escape with the rest of the group once Megatron had knocked Optimus Prime into the rushing river nearby. Though Thundercracker assisted in filling the energon cubes, [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] wasted a huge amount of energon testing it with a cannon. The Decepticons were then forced to make two stops: one at the [[Ruby Crystal Mines of Burma]], and another hunting for rocket fuel. Thundercracker and a handful of [[generic]]s painted like him were among the strike force headed for the Crystal Mines. While there, he pushed a cart of these gems with Skywarp, talking to Skywarp about his dislike for Earth, something Skywarp agreed with. They just barely avoided noticing [[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]] and his ally [[Sparkplug Witwicky]], who had come to investigate. The two set a bomb, but ran into the two Seekers on their way back out. Thundercracker attacked them until they were on the ground, Skywarp proposing that they give them as a present to Megatron. The bomb went off almost immediately afterward, burying the Decepticons and their enemies, so this did not come to be. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 2}}

[[Image:MTMTEpt2-Thundercracker_Skywarp_Mine.jpg|thumb|250px|left|"Gee Thundercracker, what are we going to do today?" "The same thing we do every day, Skywarp... try to take over the world!"]]

Both parties managed to escape safely, and Thundercracker went with the other Decepticons (save for Megatron) to a rocket fuel base, where Thundercracker made his mark by destroying a couple of tanks. The Autobots arrived to stop them, with Thundercracker, Skywarp, and Laserbeak unleashing an aerial assault upon Cliffjumper and Wheeljack. During the brawl, Megatron called Thundercracker and the other troops to the [[Victory (G1)|space cruiser]] to return to Cybertron. However, a surprise attack from Mirage grounded their plans, literally and metaphorically. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 3}}

This would not be the end of the Decepticons, however. The crashed Victory was rebuilt into a fortress, from which they made another assault looking for energon. Thundercracker participated in many other attacks following this, also witnessing Megatron's disappearance in a [[space bridge]] accident, {{storylink|Transport to Oblivion}} and being part of the attack on a hydroelectric power generator along with Soundwave and Starscream, who declared himself leader in Megatron's absence. Though a group of Autobots came to stop them, Thundercracker bashed the charging Cliffjumper with a pillar from the building. The energon cubes they were making were destroyed, and Soundwave suggested that the squad should retreat. As they escaped, Thundercracker criticized Starscream's leader capabilities, going on to praise Megatron when he revealed himself to have survived. Starscream took his squad (and Skywarp) to an airplane factory for spare parts, but while Thundercracker was having his wings reattached, Bluestreak and Prowl crashed the party. The Seekers shot at the Autobots, but [[Chip Chase]] took control of the injured Prowl and had him unleash a spectacular assault forcing Starscream's squad to escape. However, they made a quick stop at Chip's house and abducted him, taking him to [[Doctor Alcazar|Dr. Alcazar]]'s lab where the other Decepticons were. They extracted the antimatter formula from his brain, making them stronger. Thundercracker was unable to kill the now-useless Chip, as Autobots interrupted and took him back. The next morning, after leaving the lab, [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] used his [[jet judo]] on the antimatter-powered Thundercracker, but Starscream thwarted this plan. Thundercracker was then ordered to give Megatron the antimatter cubes, transforming him into "the most powerful weapon of all". This plan was a failure, and the Decepticons had no choice but to get away. {{storylink|Roll for It}}

[[Image:Thundercrackerg1.jpg|right|180px|thumb|FLINTSTOOOOONE!!!]]

Thundercracker again joined his fellow Seekers in raiding a factory for energy and heavily damaging Optimus Prime, who had been called in by Chip. When more Autobots showed up, Megatron ordered the Seekers to escape with the energon cubes rather than fighting them. At the end of the day, Thundercracker participated in a battle in front of the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]], where he was punched down by [[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]] immediately as he landed. When Megatron suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of a recovered Optimus Prime, Starscream smugly instructed everybody to take Megatron back for repairs. {{storylink|Divide and Conquer}} Following this, Thundercracker witnessed the rebirth of Starscream's former colleague [[Jetfire (G1)|Skyfire]] {{storylink|Fire in the Sky}} and was shot down by [[Slag (G1)|Slag]] during a mission at the [[Great Falls]]. {{storylink|S.O.S. Dinobots}}

One of the few things he seemed to loathe even more than the world he was stranded on was the attitude of his commander, [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]]. Thundercracker often started fights with the [[Air Commander]], usually over whether or not Megatron's latest plan was a waste of time (Thundercracker took Megatron's side). At one point, Thundercracker's distaste for "that geeky Starscream" became so strong that he was willing to let Skyfire destroy one of the Decepticons' greatest weapons, just in the hopes that Starscream would get blamed for it! {{storylink|Fire on the Mountain}} Despite these brushes with treachery, however, Thundercracker just never had it in him to do anything more than complain about his fellow Decepticons.

Thundercracker and the other Seekers helped haul [[Meteorini Chipperoni|an unstable meteor]] back for the Decepticons, {{storylink|War of the Dinobots}} and the Seekers next attacked a solar plant located in [[India]] as a diversion so Megatron could continue his plan. When Skywarp and Starscream began arguing over the effectiveness of the plan, Thundercracker merely kept his mouth shut. The Autobots came to rescue Sparkplug, going to the underwater base to do so. During this underwater battle, Thundercracker sent a missile at Bumblebee, only for Bumblebee to direct it back at him. He was next doing some work on a large space bridge for Megatron, one that would bring Cybertron into Earth's orbit and create devastating weather. {{storylink|The Ultimate Doom, Part 1}} Starscream ordered Thundercracker to use his flamethrower against the Autobots, and despite Thundercracker's protests saying that the wind is too strong, Starscream wouldn't give in. Thundercracker turned out to be correct, and his fire ended up scorching to two Seekers instead, something [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] and [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] found humourous. {{storylink|The Ultimate Doom, Part 2}} When the other Decepticons noticed that Megatron had left for Cybertron by himself, Thundercracker was in hot pursuit. {{storylink|The Ultimate Doom, Part 3}} Thundercracker was the straight man when Skywarp, Rumble, and [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] were bickering when they should have been working. Though he was as surprised as everybody else when Megatron arrived, perfectly healthy, to shut everybody up, Thundercracker was willing to go with Megatron when he discovered Starscream and [[Doctor Arkeville|Dr. Arkeville]]'s plot. {{storylink|Countdown to Extinction (episode)|Countdown to Extinction}}

[[Image:CTE-Thundercracker_Skywarp_Rumble.jpg|thumb|left|210px|Somebody must have forgotten to lock the gate at the petting zoo...]]

Megatron took [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] and Thundercracker to [[Bali]] after [[Insecticon (G1)|giant insects]] were reported in the area. When [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] showed them to a Decepticon escape pod disguised as a hollow rock, Thundercracker deduced that the giant insects were Decepticons who came to Earth and scanned insects as [[alternate mode]]s. This group met up with the Insecticons, and [[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]] requested that they help defeat the group of Autobots challenging them, to which they agreed. When reinforcement Autobots came in, Megatron ordered the Decepticons (Insecticons included) to head for the oil refinery to rest up. The Insecticons separated, with the rest going to the refinery, where Thundercracker poured oil from the pipes into Soundwave's energon cubes, and brought more cubes when Rumble requested them. [[Jetfire (G1)|A visitor]] soon showed up, and Thundercracker joined in giving him a "warm welcome". Other Autobots arrived, with Brawn, Wheeljack and Optimus Prime being forced to dive into the water to avoid a "Shrapnel grenade". Thundercracker used his flamethrower on the trio of Autobots, who avoided it and retaliated by swimming underwater and then pushing up the dock Thundercracker was standing on, throwing him into his own inferno. He retreated with the rest of his group to follow the fleeing Insecticons. {{storylink|A Plague of Insecticons}}

Megatron used the power chip rectifiers taken from the other Decepticons in his one-on-one battle against Optimus Prime. Thundercracker contributed his, allowing Megatron to use ear-splitting sonic booms. After the battle, the Autobots went back to base so Optimus could recover, where they discovered the Decepticons' plan. After distracting and threatening them with a hologram, the Autobots shot at their enemies until they fell down the crevice, into the lava below. {{storylink|Heavy Metal War}}

[[Image:TheImmobilizer-Thundercracker_River.jpg|thumb|215px|right|''Transformers: Revenge of the Redecos'' never quite came to pass.]]

Thundercracker obviously survived his fall with the rest of his group, as he was around for attacks on Air Force rocket bases, and on the hunt for [[Autobot X]], {{storylink|Autobot Spike}} and was with the other Decepticons in Africa, but at the end of the day, he was sent flying into a tree by Ratchet. When the solar needle situation became dire, causing the sun to come close to self-destruction, Thundercracker was smart enough to fly away, the first Decepticon to do so. {{storylink|Changing Gears}} He was also part of an aerial strike force bombarding the Autobots as they attempted to recover Optimus Prime's right arm from the Decepticons' fortress in "[[New Cybertron]]". {{storylink|City of Steel}} Along with the other Seekers, Thundercracker attacked the outside of the Ark as a diversion so Megatron could insert [[Personality destabilizer device|a device]] in the Ark's recharging chamber that would turn the Autobots evil. Notably, Thundercracker's blasts created a landslide that stopped [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] in his tracks. He was later boarding a rocket that would hopefully take the Decepticons back to Cybertron, but the Autobots, who had become good again, damaged the fuel tanks and forced the Decepticons to jump ship. {{storylink|Attack of the Autobots}} Thundercracker was seen with the other Decepticons, shooting at Optimus Prime when he came for their electro-cells, {{storylink|Traitor}} and was among those who came to steal Wheeljack's [[Wheeljack Instant Immobilizer|Immobilizer]]. {{storylink|The Immobilizer}} When the Autobots became trapped in their vehicle modes thanks to the transfixatron, Thundercracker blasted Optimus Prime and Ironhide and overheated them. He also helped Starscream bring out the Decepticon body shell, and then attempted (and failed) to kill [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|an Earthcrawler with an overdue termination]]. {{storylink|The Autobot Run}} After Soundwave's discovery of [[Sub-Atlantica|an underwater city]], Thundercracker and the other Decepticons went to go plunder it for energy. When they discovered [[Nergill|a new ally]], Thundercracker worked on some technology that would hopefully raise his submerged city. Although he was skeptical about working with them, he had to go along anyway as part of a larger plan. He was then among the Seekers who menaced a squad of Autobots when they came to check out the situation. When Sub-Atlantica had risen to the water's surface and floated towards [[Washington, D.C.]], Thundercracker entered the city with his fellow Decepticons. Though he and Skywarp threatened [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] and Prowl from above, Brawn held Thundercracker with a hooked rope so Optimus Prime could blast him out of the sky. {{storylink|Atlantis, Arise!}}

The three Seekers tore the roof off the building where [[Doctor Fujiyama the Famous Scientist|Dr. Fujiyama, the famous scientist]] unveiled his new robot [[Nightbird (G1)|Nightbird]], with Thundercracker and Starscream promptly transporting Nightbird to the Decepticons' temporary base. Later, Megatron considered replacing Starscream with the now-reprogrammed Nightbird. Starscream threw a fit and Megatron told Thundercracker and Skywarp to hold him back before Soundwave and Bombshell trapped him in a force field. Megatron led the Decepticons (minus Starscream) to retrieve Nightbird's World Energy Chip, but Starscream escaped and shot her with his [[null-ray]] in yet another act of treachery. Megatron sent the other Decepticons to catch the traitor, allowing the Autobots to collect it. {{storylink|Enter the Nightbird}}

[[Image:APrimeProblem-Thundercracker_and_Gears.jpg|thumb|left|210px|Let me at least keep this Autobot, please Starscream?]]

When the Autobots were investigating a mysterious source of energy in a crevice, the Seekers attacked Optimus Prime. Thundercracker charged at Optimus, only to be grabbed and thrown to the ground. Much later, as part of a ploy by Megatron, Thundercracker was surprised to hear [[Starscream clone (G1)|"Starscream"]] announce for everybody to hold their fire, as he had [[Gears (G1)|an Autobot]] in his very hands and could kill him. Starscream shut him up by repeating the order. But when Starscream explained his plan to fight [[Optimus Prime clone|"Optimus Prime"]], Thundercracker went along with it and was the one who announced the start of the match. {{storylink|A Prime Problem}} On a later mission, he ambushed the Autobots from above, only to be swatted away by an Autobot-controlled Devastator. {{storylink|The Core}} He was subsequently around at the mission to [[Nova Power Plant]], firing at the Autobots and a group of helicopter-piloting humans. At [[Iron Mountain]], the Insecticons managed to enslave Thundercracker and the other Seekers. However, when the now enormous-sized Shrapnel exploded, it also deactivated the [[cerebro-shell]]s that had taken over the Seekers, and they were returned to normal. {{storylink|The Insecticon Syndrome}} When Laserbeak reported [[Dinobot Island (G1)|a strange, prehistoric island]] chock-full of energon sources to Megatron, he brought a team of Decepticons with him, Thundercracker helping to fill up the energon cubes. {{storylink|Dinobot Island, Part 1}} Thundercracker also assisted in repelling both Autobots on the island and [[Dinosaur|the island's monsters]], only to be run over by a stampede. {{storylink|Dinobot Island, Part 2}} Next, he and the other jets came to a ravine to get a few shots in at the Autobots. This failed when [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] used his eponymous ability to blind them. {{storylink|Auto Berserk}}

[[Image:Microbots-DrunkThundercracker.jpg|thumb|right|210px|Before we could transform, we had to walk ''15 MILES'' to Cybertronian school every day! (hic!)]]

He was also around to assist the Decepticons in recovering the wreck of the Nemesis, which had crashed in South America. He also got completely smashed when the Decepticons went on an energon binge. {{storylink|Microbots}} He also disguised himself as an Autobot as part of a Decepticon plan to frame the Autobots. When the plan worked, he and the others witnessed the Autobots' banishment from Earth. {{storylink|Megatron's Master Plan, Part 1}} Thundercracker and Skywarp supervised the humans filling up energon cubes at a power plant, and he later took part in attacking a squad of fighter jets that had come for the Decepticons, only for them to be overwhelmed by the Autobots, who had returned from their banishment. {{storylink|Megatron's Master Plan, Part 2}}

When Spike, Carly, and Bumblebee went to the airport to pick up Sparkplug, Spike thought it was suspicious that brightly coloured military jets were at a commercial location such as theirs. Surely enough, they turned out to be Thundercracker and [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]], and the hangar that they flew into was [[Hanger|a new Decepticon base]]. However, the Dinobots showed up to stop them, and [[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]] dispatched the Seekers by tripping them with barrels. Next, [[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]] bombed Thundercracker and Thrust, causing them to crash into the base and destroy it. Slag then sent the two of them flying into an airplane, Thundercracker cushioning Thrust's fall. He got better, and later helped fill energon cubes, and by shooting Mirage, asserted to him that he was not, in fact, invisible. However, Thundercracker did not laugh for long, as his Cybertonium deteriorated and rendered him incapable of transformation. {{storylink|Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 1}}

Thundercracker, Starscream, and Megatron went to go steal [[Professor Haley]]'s [[Voltronic Galaxer]], after which they then boarded Astrotrain with the device and headed to the moon. After capturing [[Cosmos (G1)|a pair]] [[Blaster (G1)|of intruders]], Megatron ordered Starscream and Thundercracker to return to Earth while the galaxer did its work interrupting Earth's radiowaves. As Optimus Prime was directing traffic at an airport, Thundercracker and Starscream unleashed a surprise assault that damaged [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] and Prime. {{storylink|Blaster Blues}} When Starscream tackled Megatron after returning from Camelot, Thundercracker arrived to see what was going on. {{storylink|A Decepticon Raider in King Arthur's Court}}

[[Image:GoldenLagoon-Guards.jpg|thumb|left|210px|Don't try anything funny...]]

Thundercracker and Skywarp also worked as guards for the Decepticons, ensuring that [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]] and [[Seaspray (G1)|Seaspray]] didn't attempt to attack those who had captured them. When a lagoon full of [[electrum]] was discovered, Thundercracker and the other Decepticons took a dive and became invulnerable, showing off their power against the Autobots. He also came on the quest to topple Omega Supreme, but when he and Skywarp went to go retrieve [[Beachcomber (G1)|a prisoner]] at the base, he was defeated. The Decepticons attempted to attack the now electrum-powered Autobots at the lagoon, but their electrum began to wear off and Thundercracker was shot down and they were forced to retreat. {{storylink|The Golden Lagoon}} Thundercracker assisted in guarding the Decepticons' base in the Pine Barrens, {{storylink|Make Tracks}} and came to a valley that was full of [[Morphobot]]s. He went into hiding when an Autobot convoy arrived, and didn't do much else except retreat. {{storylink|Quest for Survival}}

When Astrotrain declared himself leader of the Decepticons, Thundercracker snarked at the idea, and it certainly didn't help when Astrotrain's "troops" got themselves in a mess. He barely escaped with his fellow jets when one of the troops accidentally created a flood. He later made a bet with Thrust and Ramjet (four energon cubes!) over whether or not Megatron will prevail over the rebellious Triple Changers and Devastator. {{storylink|Triple Takeover}}

[[Image:WarDawn-ThundercrackerPounding.jpg|220px|thumb|right|[[Guardian robot|They]] sure used to give us a pounding. By that, I mean we needed plastic surgery.]]

Starscream, Skywarp and Thundercracker had held several humans hostage, so it was only natural they would find the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]] on their tails. Thundercracker got in a dogfight with [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] and [[Slingshot]], and he emerged as the loser, returning to Cybertron for repairs. On Cybertron, the three Seekers caught up with the Aerialbots again, but they were calmed when [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] announced that he simply wanted to talk. Starscream saw this as an opportunity to trick the Aerialbots, but the remaining Autobots discovered their plan. The Seekers tried to ward them off, but Ironhide crashed into them. Eventually, the Decepticons discovered a guardian robot from Cybertron's past, which Thundercracker recalled as "giving them a pounding in the old days". When the Autobots repaired the time machine that had sent the Aerialbots to the past, the Decepticons attacked them with a guardian robot. When it was destroyed by [[Superion (G1)|Superion]], they retreated. {{storylink|War Dawn}} Thundercracker and Skywarp were guarding a space bridge when Starscream flew in and requested to go to Cybertron. The two of them refused to let anybody through without proper authorization, leading Starscream to aim his gun directly in Skywarp's face. They reluctantly let him through. Thundercracker took part in the assault on the traitorous Starscream and his warriors, the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]]. {{storylink|Starscream's Brigade}}

[[Image:StarscreamsBrigade-SpaceBridgeGuards.jpg|thumb|left|240px|You shall not pass!]]

He and Dirge were instructed by Megatron to transport some energon cubes to the space bridge. He was then sent to Cybertron via space bridge with the other Decepticons and the Autobots, who had temporarily made an alliance in order to stop Starscream. {{storylink|The Revenge of Bruticus}} Finally, he took part attacking the Ark and [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]]. {{storylink|B.O.T. (episode)|B.O.T.}}

Thundercracker was present for [[Battle of Autobot City|the Decepticon assault]] on [[Autobot City]] in 2005, and was among the Decepticons gunned down by Optimus Prime. After the battle, Astrotrain transported the Decepticons away, but requested that some dead weight should be jettisoned. The injured Thundercracker, along with Skywarp and the Insecticons, were tossed out of Astrotrain following a decidedly stacked vote.

[[Image:TFTM Thundercracker.jpg|right|250px|thumb|NAZGUUUUL!!]]
That was not, however, entirely the end of Thundercracker's story. [[Unicron]] was waiting in space for a chance like this, and when the newly reborn [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] needed some new troops to command, Thundercracker was among the old Decepticons used as raw materials. His body was used to create [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]]. {{storylink|The Transformers: The Movie}}

Later [[Octane]] would show concern when he ran into a [[Decepticon Crypt]] to hide from Cyclonus, the Sweeps and Scourge and found a statue of Thundercracker there. After apologizing for the intrusion, Octane decided it would be better to hide behind someone else's statue. {{storylink|Starscream's Ghost}}
{{-}}

===Japanese cartoon continuity===

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

Under orders from [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], Thundercracker accompanied [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] in an energy raid on [[Tokyo]]. They succeeded in bombing pedestrians and children until [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and a unit of Autobot vehicles arrived. Though a Decepticon victory seemed assured when they unleashed [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] on their foes, their strategy was undone when the Autobots drove up a ramp at top speed, transformed to vehicle mode and punched everybody in the face. Thundercracker was forced to retreat. {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 1|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers #1}}

Thundercracker later took part in an all-out assault on [[Ark (G1)|Autobot Headquarters]] in [[Arizona]]. The attack was nothing more than a diversion so [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] could go do unspecified ''stuff'' in Japan and the Decepticons were eventually defeated and driven off. {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 2|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers #2}}

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

===S.T.A.R.S. pack-in flyers===
[[Image:PackIn HaveTheDecepticons Inside1.jpg|left|150px|thumb|Somebody told him the femmebots are all into vampires these days.]]
A [[S.T.A.R.S. continuity|series of recruitment messages]] sent by the Autobots to [[human]] allies featured Thundercracker as a recurrent bogeyman. He first appeared in the story of [[Johnny]], a member of [[S.T.A.R.S.]] who spotted Thundercracker draining the energy from the boy's town. Despite all other power being knocked out, Johnny was able to activate his [[Command Center]] and summon an Autobot squad. {{storylink|Have the Decepticons defeated us once and for all?}} However, even they were somewhat affected by Thundercracker's siphoning, and just as Johnny was preparing to issue orders, his Command Center went dead and the walls around him began to shake. {{storylink|Can one boy, alone, hold back the evil Decepticons?}}

[[Image:PackIn RodimusPrimeRemembers Inside2.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"Greatest battle of all time, and Reflector takes the picture when my damn wings are still down. Thanks, buddy."]]

The Autobot messages ended that story there, leaving the outcome unknown. But in later messages, [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]] would recall what he considered [[Digital Doom on the Highway to Destruction|the Transformers' greatest battle on Earth]], in which the only enemy combatants were Megatron and Thundercracker. The two Decepticons set up an ambush for an Autobot convoy searching for a site on which to build [[Autobot City]]. As the battle erupted, Thundercracker again employed his energy-draining attack (described here as a "[[force field]]"). {{storylink|Rodimus Prime remembers the Transformers greatest battle on Earth.}} [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] ordered [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]], [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]], and [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]] to retreat out of the weapon's range and get help, but as they left, Thundercracker pursued. {{storylink|Transformers Combat Data}}

[[Image:Theautobotsareunderattack.jpg|left|150px|thumb|The match-up no one demanded!]]

Again, the story was cut short, but it would not be the last time Thundercracker was said to tangle with that particular group of Autobots. The final S.T.A.R.S. recruitment message told of [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]] discovering that the squad was out scouting for new energy sources, and Thundercracker was sent on a sneak-attack run. The message warned that if the recipient failed to help out by joining S.T.A.R.S., the Autobots might be destroyed. {{storylink|The Autobots Are Under Attack!}}

{{note|Thundercracker's consistent use of an energy-draining weapon is unique to this [[micro-continuity]]. It seems to make him an incredibly dangerous foe; however, given that all of this is literally Autobot propaganda, the "[[Wikipedia:Unreliable narrator|unreliable narrator]]" factor is worth consideration.}}

===''Machine Wars'' toy bio===
The mysterious [[Machine Wars]] were a tumultuous time for Thundercracker. At long last he was convinced of and committed to the truth of the Decepticon cause, but Thundercracker now ironically found himself in open rebellion against Megatron's leadership of the faction. It is unknown what events lead to his reversal of heart about the Decepticons and his being branded a "Rebel Warrior."

{{note|Since no fictional backstory has ever been established for the Machine Wars line it is possible that it is set in some alternate reality where this was simply Thundercracker's nature, but given that the rest of the characters are clearly their classic G1-selves unrevealed events/character development seem more likely explanations.}}

===Dreamwave comics continuity===
{{notekeepers}}

{{charstubfiction}}

One of the first Decepticons recruited by Megatron. Early in Megatron's scheming, Thundercracker was sent to Sector Zero-Six with Skywarp and Starscream. On the way, Starscream unintelligently leaked the plan to Grimlock. {{storylink|DW Preview Special 2002}} During the war, Thundercracker served under Shockwave during the Dark Ages, when Megatron was missing and believed dead. {{storylink|War Within: The Dark Ages}}

Thundercracker was one of several Decepticon invaders on-board the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'' when it crashed into [[Earth]] four million years ago while the Autobot ship was clearing an asteroid in the path of Cybertron. He was reactivated in 1984 with the rest of the Transformers, and fought at Megatron's side until the Decepticons were ultimately defeated. In 2002, he was captured and reprogrammed by arms dealer [[Lazarus|Adam 'Lazarus' Rook]] alongside many other Cybertronians. Lazarus intended to rent out the services of the enslaved robots to various terrorist groups. In a demonstration of their power to a group of prospective clients, Thundercracker participated in an attack on the Arctic division of the Smitco Oil Refinery by blowing something up. {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 2}}

After Megatron reactivated himself, he freed his Decepticon subordinates in order to put forward his plans to infect Earth with a metallic virus of doom. To pass the time while this happened, Starscream, Thundercracker and Skywarp busied themselves by tearing apart the Autobot [[Mini Vehicle]] team. {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 3}} Thundercracker later participated in Megatron's attack on San Francisco, where he followed Starscream's orders to maintain formation and drop cluster bombs on the Autobot giant [[Superion (G1)|Superion]], forcing the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]] to split into their separate component robots. {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 4}} Thundercracker stood watch over the defeated Autobots while Megatron tried to persuade [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] to help the Decepticons conquer Earth. After some human firefighters distracted the Decepticons long enough for Optimus Prime to free the Autobots, Thundercracker was presumably beaten up and escaped when Superion sacrificed himself to stop a nuclear missile launched by rogue US General [[Robert Hallo]]. {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 6}}

''Oddly enough, Thundercracker turned to weapons smuggling after Megatron vanished and the Decepticons were left leaderless, working with [[Mexico|Mexican]] arms dealers south of the border. He was moored at [[Mesa Verde|Atahulpa Aeropuerto de Mesa Verde]], getting his cargo hold loaded with guns, when [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] and [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] sieged the tiny airport. As his human allies scattered, Thundercracker transformed and engaged the Autobots with his drone missile launchers. One of the guided projectiles nearly blasted Prowl in the back, but Bumblebee knocked it off course... right into a tanker filled with jet fuel. The resulting explosion was catastrophic, and threw the Autobots for a loop. Thundercracker was prepared to finish off Prowl when the renegade [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobot]] named [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] arrived on the scene. Fresh for battle, Grimlock easily defeated Thundercracker, battering him from head to toe before knocking him into the airport terminal. {{storylink|Hardwired}}''

{{note|Thundercracker's smuggling operation may have been connected to Starscream supplying advanced weapons technology to his human servants in [[Las Vegas]], but this was never made clear.}}
''Recovering from his injuries, Thundercracker joined up with Starscream and his forces in "[[Las Vegas|New Centurion]]" (formerly Las Vegas) some time before Megatron returned to Earth with the nigh-invincible aliens known as the [[Keeper (species)|Keepers]] in tow. He got another chance at Prowl and Bumblebee while fighting on the Strip, but the Autobots were better prepared this time and Thundercracker was brought down by Prowl's wire-guided missiles and crashed in front of Caesar's Palace. He revived in time to join Soundwave in double-teaming Grimlock, who had also come in the assault on Las Vegas. Unfortunately, Thundercracker once again fell before the Dinobot's superior might after only a few blows. He stayed under Starscream's command after Megatron returned, remaining in Las Vegas while the former Decepticon leader and those loyal to him quit the city. This only led to Thundercracker being captured with the rest of Starscream's Decepticons when their leader was killed by the Keepers and reanimated as a host body for their awesome power. Thundercracker, Skywarp and the others were trapped beneath a massive energy field, like mice in a cage to the god-like aliens.''

''The [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] eventually dug a tunnel to freedom, and Thundercracker's group of Decepticons reunited with Megatron, working with the Autobots against the Keepers. Thundercracker joined [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] and the Autobot [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] on air patrol during the fight with the Keepers, strafing the aliens and their puppets, [[Bluestreak]] and Starscream. He survived the battle with the Keepers (not to mention the nuclear missile launched by the American government) thanks to Optimus Prime super-charging the [[Matrix]] with a pool of newly discovered energon. {{storylink|Annihilation}}''

''Thundercracker began working for Megatron again, and was present in the Nevada desert when the Autobots and Decepticons confronted the United States military. Thanks to their airborne tactics, Thundercracker and Skywarp did significant injury to the troops and survived the [[deconstructionite]] assault virtually unscathed. {{storylink|Fusion (novel)|Fusion}}''

After [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] had defeated Megatron and brought the Decepticons back to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], Thundercracker and Skywarp spent their time relaxing and bathing, though Thundercracker was skeptical of Shockwave's new order, and compared its promised benefits to the benefits originally promised by Megatron. {{storylink|Cold War}}

Starscream eventually brought the Nemesis crew back to Earth and led them in a battle against the Autobots who had stayed behind there. {{storylink|Night of the Combaticons}} Thundercracker was among those captured by the Autobots, but was eventually freed in exchange for Starscream's assistance in fighting against [[Sunstorm (G1)|Sunstorm]]. They were only given half-power, though, and had to stumble out of the Autobot camp in an extremely weakened condition. {{storylink|Skyfire (issue)|Skyfire}} Hardly the sort of leadership they had in mind, Thundercracker and the other Decepticons eagerly re-accepted Megatron as their leader when he returned to Earth and chastised Starscream for his incompetence and treachery. {{storylink|The Route of All Evil}}

===''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers''===
[[Image:GIJoevsTF1_Seeker.jpg|right|thumb|200px|]]
Thundercracker was one of the many Transformers found dormant aboard the ''Ark'' by [[Cobra]], who reprogrammed the alien robots to serve them. After rebuilding Thundercracker and Skywarp into [[Rattler]] planes, Cobra sent them to attack a peace ceremony at [[Washington, D.C.]], where one of the Seekers was the first of the attackers to reveal their [[transformation]] ability before punching [[Ace]] out of the sky. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 1}}

Eventually, the Decepticons were freed from Cobra's control, and Thundercracker and Skywarp started fighting against the newly freed Autobots. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 5}} When the [[SPS Satellite]] went out of control and sent enerby beams raining down on [[Cobra Island]], the two Seekers were caught in its blasts and deactivated. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 6}}

{{note|Thundercracker and Skywarp are identical in this series, so it's possible that Thundercracker was also the one to kill [[Major Bludd]] in [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 4|issue 4]]. It seems more like something Skywarp would do, though.}}
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===''Transformers Legends'' anthology===
Thundercracker and Skywarp were getting bawled out by Megatron when the news came in that Starscream had injured himself. When they went to retrieve Starscream, the Seeker was gone, and Thundercracker pointed out the Autobot tire-marks leading away from the area. He later totally bought Screamer's story that he'd been feigning amnesia to gain access to the Autobot base. {{storylink|Redemption Center}}

===IDW comics continuity===
{{ongoing}}
[[Image:MegatronOrigin4 Thundercracker Skywarp.jpg|left|450px|thumb|"When I joined this murderous terrorist group, I wasn't ever intending to shoot at anyone!"]]
Thundercracker and his fellow Seekers were recruited into Megatron's [[Gladiatorial combat|underground fights]] when Soundwave was sent to recruit flight capable warriors. However, Megatron did not intend for them to be pit fighters, but his new warriors. After being given [[weapons systems]] by [[Hook (G1)|Hook]], the Seekers went and kidnapped [[Decimus|Senator Decimus]], who was to be executed at Megatron's recruitment rally. However, the [[Sentinel Prime (G1)|Sentinel Prime]] and the Autobots arrived and arrested the whole of them. {{storylink|Megatron Origin issue 3}} After Starscream killed the [[Kaon Council]] and liberated them, Megatron launched his new "Decepticons" in an "Everything burns" offensive on Kaon. Thundercracker and Skywarp were sent to target a ship carrying the wealthy and elite. Thundercracker expressed some reservations about attacking the ship, but Skywarp gave him simple advice: "Don't think. Just do it." {{storylink|Megatron Origin issue 4}}

[[Image:Infiltration0 Thundercracker.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Tha-Boom, I want you in my room...]]
Millions of years later, Thundercracker operated as part of a Decepticon [[Infiltration protocol|insurgent cell]] that had operated covertly on Earth for at least four years, working to destabilize Earth's governing organizations and create global anarchy. He was known to the Autobots as a professional soldier, in contrast to the likes of the Battlechargers.

He, [[Runabout]] and [[Runamuck (G1)|Runamuck]] were assigned by [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] to intercept the human [[Stoker]] and retrieve his [[SM-40]] palmtop PC, containing data on their [[Nebraska]] operation. The team caught up with and killed Stoker outside Phoenix, AZ, but the [[SM-40]] was missing. Thundercracker tracked the device to [[Hunter O'Nion]] and [[Verity Carlo]], but was driven off by [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]], {{storylink|Infiltration issue 0}} who managed to temporarily lose him and the two [[Battlecharger|Battlechargers]]. After picking Ratchet up again, Thundercracker was later shot down by [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]], [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] and [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]]. {{storylink|Infiltration issue 2}} When Megatron arrived on Earth to take command of Starscream's infiltration team, Thundercracker, along with the other Decepticons, were unwilling to stand against him when the Decepticon leader ordered them to stand down. {{storylink|Infiltration issue 6}}

After Megatron trashed Starscream, Thundercracker and the other Decepticons were only all too willing to accept Megatron's leadership once again. The Decepticons took up temporary residence in an [[array]] structure in [[Latveria]]. There, Megatron activated the [[Psycho-Prism]] he had stolen from [[Doctor Doom]]. The Psycho-Prism emitted an aggression wave that acted on humans, increasing international tensions in the area. Megatron sent Thundercracker an Skywarp to bomb the neighboring country of [[Symkaria]] so they would blame Latveria and start a war. After their return the Decepticon array was being besieged by Autobots and [[Avengers]]. Along with the other Decepticons (except [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]), Thundercraker powered-up with the captured [[Spider-Man]]'s super powers as part of [[mirror response mode]]. Thundercraker, Runabout, and Runamuck left the array to confront the Autobots and Avengers outside. Thundercracker shot and injured Optimus Prime. {{storylink|Man and Machine, Part Two}}

After shooting [[Ms. Marvel]] and getting chased by [[Captain America]] in the [[Quinjet]], Thundercraker was brought down by a blast from [[Iron Man]] in Transformer-sized armor. {{storylink|Man and Machine, Part Three}} He laid there until Megatron called for a retreat via [[emergency warp-out]]. {{storylink|Man and Machine, Part Four}}

Thundercracker and Skywarp were sent to destroy the El Jira power plant in the middle east to inflame global tensions and spark a global energy shortage. {{storylink|Escalation issue 2}} During the battle of [[Brasnya]], the sorely-pressed Skywarp teleported Thundercracker in to try and stop [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] from escaping with the [[Georgi Koska]] facimile. {{storylink|Escalation issue 6}}

[[Image:Devastation1 Ruining Everything.jpg|left|300px|thumb|Megatron's lost it! It must be a Tuesday.]]
Thundercracker was among the concerned Decepticons who feared that Megatron had made a serious error in judgement by bringing the destructive [[Sixshot]] to Earth, and so conspired to bring Starscream back into the fold to talk some sense into their leader. {{storylink|Devastation issue 1}} Though outnumbered and outgunned, the Decepticons fought valiantly when the [[Reaper|Reapers]] attacked, and with a little help from [[Galvatron (G1)|a mysterious combatant]], they managed to defeat the alien invaders. {{storylink|Devastation issue 6}}

Sometime after that (we think), Thundercracker was on Cybertron watching the experiments to create [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]]. He was outraged by the existence of the [[Insecticon swarm|Swarm]], freakish monsters created as a side-effect, and demanded Megatron euthanised them rather than allowing fellow Decepticons to endure such torturous existence. Megatron, shockingly, didn't give a toss. A while later, Thundercracker helped defeat the Autobots staying on Earth. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 7}}

A year on from the Reaper battle, Thundercracker was part of the Decepticon attack on [[New York City]]. Unlike his comrades, he showed no enthusiasm for mindless slaughter and could be seen staring at the devastation Megatron left in his wake. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 1}} When Megatron later made his propaganda speech, Thundercracker looked unimpressed. (Having to stand outside when it was pissing down probably didn't help) {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 4}}
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[[Image:AHM12_Betrayer.jpg|right|200px|thumb|How DARE you act like your [[bio]] suggests you should act!]]

Thundercracker came to the aid of Skywarp when the latter was being threatened by [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]]. While Skywarp enjoyed working with his pal Thundercracker again, he also noted that Thundercracker hadn't actually participated in any of the fighting since the initial strike. Thundercracker for his part looked about as depressed as a robot CAN look, suggesting he was unhappy about the invasion plan, or at least the gratuitous death and destruction some of the others had caused. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 6}} When Starscream betrayed Megatron and sent the Insecticons and [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] to attack him, Thundercracker merely stood back and watched. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 10}} He was later seen fighting back against human jets sent from [[Europe]]. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 11}}

When Megatron ordered [[Octane|Tankor]] to destroy New York City using a nuclear bomb, Thundercracker volunteered himself to redirect it. When questioned, he said that in his opinion, the Decepticons had lost their way, and the mass slaughter of unworthy foes was dishonorable. He succeeded in redirecting the bomb, but was then confronted by a furious Skywarp, who was outraged at the idea of a Seeker "betrayer" and, despite Thundercracker's attempts to explain his position, blasted him point-blank in the head. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 12}}

Thundercracker survived, albeit heavily injured and incapable of traveling far. As he made his way to a ruined New York skyscraper which human cleanup crews likely wouldn't reach for months, he reflected on how life on Earth was always changing and always found a way to survive. He eventually managed to construct a distress beacon, and as he waited for his fellow Decepticons to find him, he also got a [[television]] working. For the next two and a half years, Thundercracker spent his time watching human programs and growing increasingly fascinated with their ever-changing world and society. Eventually, he was found by a ragtag team of 'cons left behind on the planet, who repaired him and hoped that he, as an elite Seeker, would lead them. Thundercracker refused, as he saw no point in a warrior leading the team, since the war was over for them. {{storylink|Seasons in Flight}}

Instead, [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] took command, and led Thundercracker and the others for a revenge attack on [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]]. They changed their mind, however, and instead offered to help [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] and his group leave Earth. {{storylink|New Arrivals, Old Encounters}} As Thundercracker helped them construct a ship, he thought about how Swindle had to be planning something, and how he felt remorse for the Autobots and how lost they were. His thoughts strayed back to the humans and their ever-changing world, comparing them to his own so-called "transforming" race that had remained the same for millions of years. While Thundercracker used to laugh at it, he now saw the beauty of Earth, where every act of destruction was also an act of creation. He knew that they had a lot to learn from the humans, but all his fellow Transformers wanted to do was to run away. {{storylink|Seasons in Flight}}

Thundercracker watched from the sidelines as Ultra Magnus confronted Hot Rod's group for a second time, and witnessed Swindle's unveiling of [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]]. {{storylink|Enemies of the System}} While the other Decepticons turned on their Autobot "comrades", Thundercracker remained true to his honor. He saved [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] during a scrap with [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]], and proceeded to help Rodimus as well. {{storylink|Earthworks}}

Months later, Bumblebee contacted Thundercracker, asking him for help in getting the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]] out of [[North Korea]]. {{storylink|International Incident Part 2: "Ranks of Bronze"}}
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==Commercial apperances==
Thundercracker snuck his way into several bits of original [[commercial]] animation:
* He appears in the first Transformers animation, a 1984 commercial advertising the Marvel comic. He is animated with an early model featuring a black face.

* He appears alongside Starscream in a commercial for Jetfire, strafing three Autobot cars. Later Jetfire shoots him down, forcing him and Starscream to transform and land.

* Thundercracker and the other two jets get beat up by the Dinobots in a commercial for the Predacons.

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
[[Image:Redeco.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Thundercracker is the cheap and lazy redeco on the right.]]
* '''Thundercracker''' (Decepticon Jet, 1984/1985/1986/2001/2003/2008)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''24'''
**''Accessories'': Left & right fists, landing gear, 2 rocket launchers, 2 rockets, 2 "Incendiary Gun" missiles

: {{note|For some reason, the stats on Skywarp's, Starscream's and Thundercracker's tech specs were switched around. Thundercracker was given Skywarp's numbers.}}

: Originally a ''[[Diaclone]]'' "Jet Robo Acrobat-Type", Thundercracker transforms into an F-15 Eagle fighter jet, sharing his mold with his teammates [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]. Many parts need to be removed completely from transformation from robot to jet and back, which nowadays is considered a major drawback of the toy. It is difficult to find it complete, as neither mode can hold all the pieces required. There are a few minor mold variations of this toy (common for the first two years of ''Transformers'', really), the most immediately noticeable being that early versions did not have visible "clip-tabs" on the inner face of the gauntlets.

: In 1986, he was made available as a mail-away item (as he was no longer shipping to retail shelves) in the "[[Digital Doom on the Highway to Destruction]]" flier packed with most boxed ''Transformers'' toys. He cost $10 and two [[Robot Point|robot points]].

: In 2001, Thundercracker was given a short-run re-issue by [[Takara]] as a convention-[[exclusive]] item. The toy would later be more extensively released as part of the [[Hasbro]] [[Commemorative Series]] line, though due to US [[For safety reasons|toy-safety regulations]], his missiles were made extra-long.

: In August, 2008, Thundercracker was reissued with Skywarp as number 11 in Takara's [[Encore|Transformers Encore]] line. This version used a slightly different shade of blue and had painted stripes and symbols instead of using stickers.

: This mold is also used by [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]], [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]], [[Sunstorm (G1)|Sunstorm]] and [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]].

{{-}}{{anchor|ActionMaster}}
[[Image:Thundercrackeram.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Do not look directly at him, unless you have sunglasses and/or Pepto Bismol handy.]]
* '''Thundercracker (Action Master)''' (Action Master Exo-suit, 1991)
**''Accessories'': "Solo Mission Jet Plane", 2 missiles

: Released only in European and Australasian markets, once again Thundercracker was a [[redeco]] of Starscream, a non-transforming action figure that combined elements of both the character's cartoon model and toy-form. Like all [[Action Master|Action Masters]], Thundercracker was a non-transformable action figure with a transformable accessory — in his case, a Solo Mission Jet Plane vehicle that converted into [[Action Master Exo-suit| Exo-suit]] battle armor. However, unlike most of Thundercracker's appearances, Action Master Thundercracker is not in his traditional blue and silver colors, but rather in [[Neon|magenta, purple, blue, gold, and two shades of green]]. ''(Oy.)''

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===Machine Wars===
[[Image:MWThundercracker toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|No, seriously, this guy is Thundercracker.]]
* '''Thundercracker''' (Basic, 1996)
**''Accessories'': Two-part rifle

: Sharing a mold once again with [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]], Thundercracker transforms into a green Dassault Rafale fighter jet with spring-loaded one-step transformation from jet to robot. The two halves of his rifle store in his lower legs. Like all ''[[Machine Wars]]'' toys, Thundercracker was an [[exclusive]] to Kay-Bee stores and related stores like Toy Liquidators.

: This mold was also used to make ''[[Beast Wars II (franchise)|Beast Wars II]]'' [[Dirge (BWII)|Dirge]], ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Skyfire (RID)|Skyfire]], ''[[Robot Masters]]'' [[Wingstun]], and the "[[Dawn of Future's Past]]" version of [[Waspinator (BW)|Waspinator]].

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===Smallest Transforming Transformers===
* '''Thundercracker''' (2004)

: Part of the third wave of ''[[Smallest Transforming Transformers]]'' product (dubbed wave "2.5" and available only at CVS stores in Japan), Thundercracker is ''again'' a redeco of Starscream. Like all toys in the line, Thundercracker is a tiny, even more simplified version of the original toy, transforming into an F-15 fighter jet. These toys were sold in "blind-packed" boxes, so you could not know which one you had until you actually opened the box. To complicate matters further, Thundercracker was a [[chase figure]], one of two in his wave (the other was a cartoon-colored version of Optimus Prime's trailer).

: The same mold is used by ''Smallest Transforming Transformers'' Skywarp and Thrust.

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===Robot Masters===
[[Image:RobotMastersThundercracker.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Light blue? Totally neon.]]
* '''Skywarp & Thundercracker''' (Multi-pack, 2005)
**''Accessories'': 2 rifles, 2 missile pods

: ''[[Robot Masters]]'' Thundercracker is a redeco of [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] from the same series, a smaller yet more advanced version of the original toy, adding more articulation and reducing the amount of [[Partformer|part-forming]] required. He was available only in a two-pack with [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]], which also came with a Decepticon sigil pin and chromed missile pods. This set was the very last product released in the ''Robot Masters'' line, and wasn't even strictly sold in a box from that series; instead, it used an e-Hobby Generation 1 reissue box, with a small "''Robot Masters''" sticker in the corner tab noting its origin from the front.

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===Titanium Series===
[[Image:TitaniumHeroesWWThundercracker.jpg|right|300px|thumb|I don't think I have enough little wings on my shoulders.]]
* '''Thundercracker''' (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2006)

: [[Titanium Series]] Thundercracker is based upon his appearance in [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]]'s ''[[The War Within]]''. He transforms into a Cybertronian 'tetrajet', as reimagined by [[Don Figueroa]]. As with all 6-inch Titanium Cybertron Heroes, he is constructed mostly of fully painted die-cast metal.

: This mold was redecoed into ''[[War Within (toyline)|War Within]]'' Starscream, Sunstorm, Skywarp and Thrust.

: Yes. Thundercracker was here first.
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===Timelines===
[[Image:Classics Thundercracker Toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|You want me, but you can't have me!]]
*'''Games of Deception!''' (Multi-pack, 2007)
**''Accessories'': Left & right launchers, 2 missiles

: Thundercracker is part of the ''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]''-themed [[BotCon 2007]] box set, along with [[Bug Bite (G1)|Bugbite]], [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]], [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]], and [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]]. Thundercracker is a [[redeco]] of the ''Classics'' Starscream toy using the modified version first seen with Skywarp.

: ''Classics'' Thundercracker is a faithful reproduction of his original toy, but with modern standards of toy engineering, transformation, sculpting detail and articulation. He transforms into an F-15 Eagle, but has the nose of an F-14 Tomcat fighter jet. His color scheme is inspired by the original figure released in 1984, but with a shade of blue closer to that of the original [[Diaclone]] version.

: In robot mode, Thundercracker is essentially a very detailed version of his cartoon robot mode. He is armed with two null-ray missile launchers which are so large that they restrict his arm movement due to them bumping into his wings.

: There were only 1500 ''Classics'' Thundercracker figures produced.

:This mold was used for Henkei! Thundercracker.

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===Henkei! Henkei!===
[[Image:Henkei Thundercracker toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb| You can have me . . . but you might not want me.]]
*'''Thundercracker''' (Deluxe, 2008)
**''Accessories:'' 2 missile launchers (left and right), 2 missiles

: ''[[Henkei! Henkei! (toyline)|Henkei! Henkei!]]'' Thundercracker is a Genbo store exclusive redeco of ''Henkei! Henkei!'' [[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]]. He features a metallic flake blue version of his cartoon clour scheme, rather than his darker blue Generation 1 toy colour scheme. ''Henkei'' Thundercracker and his fellow [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]] [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] were opened for pre-order on [[May 22]]nd through [[June 20]], and mailed out in September 2008.

:Soon after release, there were numerous complaints from both Japanese and Western collectors about the poor quality control for both Thundercracker and Skywarp. Thundercracker in particular suffered from a widespread issue where his missile launchers did not fit into the holes in his shoulders, due to the holes being too big. Some reported both toys suffering misassembly issues such as having two left or two right thighs.

:Several minor changes were made to this mold for this release. The holes for his missile launchers in his arms were widened, but not the launcher's insertion pegs. The wing's missile launcher insertion points were lengthened and are now curved at the end. The last rectangle on his air intakes, was further modified from the Classics version this time the bottom most rectangle goes completely across the air intake's surface rather than just the center. ''Henkei'' Skywarp and ''[[Universe (2008 toyline)|Universe]]'' [[Starscream (G1)/toys#Generation 1 Series|Starscream]] also saw most of these changes.

{{-}}

===Masterpiece===
[[Image:MP Thundercracker toy.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Hey, at least I'm ''meant'' to be [[Starscream (G1)/toys#Masterpiece|blue]].]]
* '''Thundercracker''' (2008)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''MP-7'''
**''Accessories:'' 2 "Machine Guns", 2 AIM missile racks, Doctor Arkeville pilot, Megatron Gun clasp, display stand

:A redeco of ''Masterpiece'' Starscream, ''[[Masterpiece]]'' Thundercracker was released in Japan in November 2008. He comes with all the accessories of the previous Seekers including the display stand, [[Doctor Arkeville]] (cast with blue skin), stickers and the clip to hold gun-mode Megatron that came with ''Masterpiece'' Convoy while in jet-mode. Also like Starscream and Skywarp, Thundercracker features two swappable faces; the normal emotionless face which is retooled from Starscream's original one, and a new growling one which appears to be an attempt to make him seem very angry... very angry indeed. Unfortunately the effect leaves him looking like he's on a trip to the dentist. He is covered with a glossy finish just like Skywarp.

:''Masterpiece'' Thundercracker features an assembly error: His left and right pectorals are flipped. This misassembly does not affect transformation at all, and is most noticeable when compared to prior Masterpiece Seekers. The 2008 pressing of ''Masterpiece'' Skywarp also features this part swap.

:It is a common misconception that the stoic face on Takara's ''Masterpiece'' Starscream, Skywarp, and Thundercracker are the same, when all of them are in fact different sculpts.

{{-}}

===Alternity===
*'''Thundercracker Sonic Blue''' (2010)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''A-04'''

:Thundercracker is a redeco of ''[[Alternity (franchise)|Alternity]]'' [[Skywarp (G1)#Alternity|Skywarp]], transforming into a licensed 1:32 scale [[wikipedia:Mitsuoka_Orochi|Mitsuoka Orochi]]. Thundercracker replaces Skywarp's purple, flat black, light purple, and metallic gray for metallic blue, glossy black, light blue, and silver. Like the other toys in the line, he features [[die-cast]] metal parts and rubber tires, as well as an opening hood, trunk and doors. In car mode, small wings can be flipped out from under Thundercracker's rear wheels, giving him the appearance of a flying car.

:The original version of this mold was used by ''Alternity'' [[Starscream (G1)/toys#Alternity|Starscream]] and Skywarp.

==Merchandise==
===Decoy===
* '''Thundercracker''' (1986)
**''Decoy ID number'': '''34'''

: [[Decoy]] Thundercracker is a tiny rubber figure randomly packed with [[Throttlebot]]s, [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]], [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]], [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] in 1986. As the figure is one solid color (purple or red, with the red versions only being available for a short while and only with Throttlebots), Thundercracker is only differentiated from Starscream and Skywarp by holding his right arm up in the air.

===Super Collection Figure===
[[Image:HOC_Thundercracker.jpg|thumb|right|250px|]]
* '''Thundercracker''' (2001)

: ''[[Super Collection Figure]]'' Thundercracker is a non-transforming three-inch tall figure, and a redeco of SCF Starscream. He was released in the fourth wave of the series, and came with the left leg of that wave's "Build-A-Figure", [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]].

: This mold was also used to make [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]], [[Sunstorm (G1)|Sunstorm]] and the [[Air Warrior]]s in the ''[[Heroes of Cybertron]]'' line (see below).

===Heroes of Cybertron===
* '''Thundercracker''' (2003)

: ''[[Heroes of Cybertron]]'' was the Western release of ''Super Collection Figures'', and differ in that they were given a [[light-piping]] gimmick due to being molded entirely from translucent red or blue plastic and leaving the eyes and back of the head unpainted. Thundercracker was part of the second wave of HOCs. The pectorals are painted gray (instead of white on the SCF) and his hands black (instead of gray).

* '''Decepticon''' (2003)

: Thundercracker was also available in a six-pack with Starscream, Skywarp and three [[Air Warrior]]s. This set was offered by [[3H Productions|3H]] at [[The Official Transformers Collectors Convention|OTFCC 2003]] and elsewhere.

{{-}}

===MyClone===
* '''Thundercracker''' (2003)

: A redeco of [[MyClone]] Starscream, Thundercracker a small [[super deformed]] figure who, due to a generic base body, can be easily disassembled and have his parts swapped with other MyClones. Thundercracker was a [[chase figure]] in the second wave of Transformers MyClones, along with [[Galvatron (G1)/toys|Lava Galvatron]].

===Titanium Series===
[[Image:Titanium-toy RMThundercracker.JPG|right|200px|thumb|Complete with rocket exhaust. Or possibly [[Goo]]. Or possibly oh dear god please let it be rocket exhaust or Goo.]]
* '''Thundercracker''' (3" Robot Masters, 2006)
**''Accessories:'' Display stand

: A redeco of "Robot Masters" Starscream, Thundercracker is a small, non-transforming die-cast metal figurine based on his cartoon [[character model]]. He is sculpted holding a gun in his left hand and stretching out his right arm, while using his feet-jets to fly up.
{{-}}

===Robot Heroes===
[[Image:Robotheroesjazzthundercracker.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Now who's geeky?]]
* '''Jazz Vs Thundercracker''' (2007)

: A redeco of ''[[Robot Heroes]]'' Starscream, Thundercracker is a two inch high figure sculpted in a [[super deformed]] style and articulated at the shoulders. He was available in a two-pack with [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]]. This mold was later redecoed as Skywarp in the "Decepticon Sneak Attack" set.

{{-}}

===Palisades===
[[Image:PalisadesThundercracker.jpg|thumb|Thundercracker [[Wikipedia:Jeff Dunham|on a ''stiiick'']].]]
* '''Thundercracker''' (Palisades, 2005)

:A [[Palisades|Palisades Direct]]-exclusive redeco of the Starscream statue, Thundercracker is a six inch tall polystone statue with articulated head and arms. He can stand normally or use a stand to take on a "hovering" pose. Thundercracker was limited to 300 pieces, and sculpted by [[3L Creation Group]] from a design by [[George Tremarco]].

{{-}}
===Transformers - Mini Bust===
[[Image:DST08_ThundercrackerBust.jpg|right|thumb|200px|]]
* '''Thundercracker''' (Diamond Select, 2008)
:Released by Diamond Select Toys in 2008, Thundercracker was first exclusive to the New York Comic Con and later on offered by online retailer Big Bad Toy Store. He was sculpted by [[Mark Wong]] of [[Art Asylum]] and limited to 400 pieces.

==Notes==
* The mold for ''Machine Wars'' Thundercracker was originally developed for ''[[Generation 2 (toyline)|Generation 2]]'', but was canceled when that line went under. It is unknown if it was intended to be a new character or a recurring one, though odds are it would have been later [[Redeco|redecoed]] into a recurring character if the former was true.

* A redeco of the ''Classics'' Seeker mold as Action Master Thundercracker was originally going to be the attendee freebie figure for [[BotCon 2010|BotCon 2010]], but the mold was being used for ''Generations'' Thrust by Hasbro at the time and thus unavailable. So [[Fun Publications|Fun Publications]] opted to produce [[Slicer|Slice]] instead.

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

[[Category:Action Masters]]
[[Category:Alternity characters]]
[[Category:Classics characters]]
[[Category:Convention exclusives]]
[[Category:KB Toys exclusives]]
[[Category:Decepticons]]
[[Category:Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category:Generation 2 characters]]
[[Category: Henkei! Henkei! characters]]
[[Category:Machine Wars characters]]
[[Category:Mail order items]]
[[Category:MyClone]]
[[Category:Robot Masters characters]]
[[Category:Seekers]]
[[Category:Robot Heroes]]
[[Category:Timelines characters]]
[[Category:Titanium Series]]

File:DST08 ThundercrackerBust.jpg

2010-11-16T01:16:00Z

MrBlud:

File:DST08 SkywarpBust.jpg

2010-11-16T01:11:32Z

MrBlud:

Megatron (G1)/toys

2010-11-16T01:03:32Z

MrBlud: /* Hard Hero */

{{suite}}[[Image:Instructionart-megatrong2combat.jpg|thumb|250px]]
Many toys have been made of '''[[Generation 1]] [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'''. So many, they have to get their own page!

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
[[Image:G1Megatron toy.jpg|right|350px|thumb|This photo needs an orange cap or someone might shoot the wiki.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Decepticon Leader, 1984/1985)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''16'''
**''Accessories (Hasbro release)'': Silencer, stock, telescopic sight/fusion cannon, "high-density infrared laser cannon"
**''Accessories (Takara release)'': Sword, "high-density infrared laser cannon", 20 bullets

: Released in the first year of the ''Transformers'' toyline, the original Megatron toy began life as the ''[[Microman]]'' figure "Gun Robo - P38", which transforms into an accurate replica of a Walther P-38 pistol. This ''Microman'' figure was availble in two forms: a standard version in two color schemes (one grey, one black), and the "Gun Robo - P38 U.N.C.L.E.", outfitted with three distinctive acessories—a scope, a silencer and a stock—that replicate the appearance of the unique, specialized Walther pistol seen in the popular 1960s spy television series ''[[Wikipedia:The Man from U.N.C.L.E.|The Man from U.N.C.L.E.]]'' <ref>https://www.cia.gov/about-cia/cia-museum/spy-fi-archives/item08.html</ref> It was the "U.N.C.L.E." version, with all of its special accessories, that was released by Hasbro as Megatron. When the figure is in robot mode, the sight doubles as his signature arm-mounted [[fusion cannon]], but can also be combined with the other attachments to form either a "Particle Beam Cannon" weapons emplacement that Megatron can man, or a "Telescopic Laser Cannon" that connects to the figure as an over-shoulder weapons array. The pieces can also form a turret that a ''Microman'' figure can sit on and operate (that's what the tiny handles on Megatron's fusion cannon are for), but this feature was naturally left out of the ''Transformers'' version's instructions. Megatron also came with a chromed silver "high-density infrared laser cannon" that plugs into his either of his hands.

: The original ''Microman'' release of the toy that would be Megatron featured a spring-loaded firing mechanism that allowed the toy to shoot ([[for safety reasons|dangerously small]]) plastic bullets one at a time from its barrel. A similar launching mechanism was also built into the stock piece, which could launch the bullets when the accessories were configured into their weapons emplacement mode. As with all missile-firing gimmicks, this feature was removed from the Hasbro release of the toy, though the ports into which the bullets were inserted are still present.

: Megatron has had several variations, reissues and [[redeco]]s released down through the years; this article strives to list each distinct edition of the toy under its own respective series. The earliest variation of the toy came in 1985, when (like all toys originally available in 1984) Megatron was given a factory-applied [[rubsign]]. Then, the following year, when he was no longer a part of the toy assortment sold at retail, Megatron was made available as a mail-away item in the "[[Digital Doom on the Highway to Destruction]]" flier packed in with boxed ''Transformers'' toys. He cost $21.50 and five [[robot points]].

: Perhaps the most significant variant of Megatron released in these early years was the version of the figure released by [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] in Japan. Instead of using the ''Microman'' "U.N.C.L.E." figure as Hasbro had, Takara released the ''standard'' version of the Gun Robo P-38 ''Microman'' figure, in its grey color scheme, which featured flat grey plastic on the chest and arms (where Hasbro's toy was chromed), and blue plastic on the inner arms and legs (where Hasbro's was red). Most notably, like that standard ''Microman'' figure, Takara's Megatron did not come with the stock, silencer and scope accessories (lacking even the attachment point for his cannon on his right arm), but instead came with a silver-chromed sword and retained his original bullet-firing mechanism. Takara's [[package art]] for the figure was an entirely different illustration from the Hasbro version, showing this toy's accessories, but it still erroneously showed the figure with red plastic on its limbs. This coloration was later [[Repurposing|repurposed]] by [[e-Hobby]] for a new character named [[Megaplex]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/1984/Decepticon/Megatron/megatron.htm More information on Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|VSX}}
[[Image:Convoy_megatron_vsx.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''Convoy VS Megatron''' (Multi-pack, 1985)
**''Japanese ID number'': '''VSX'''
**''Accessories'': Sword, "high-density infrared laser cannon", 20 bullets

: In Japan, Megatron was also made available in a special two-pack with [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Optimus Prime]]. Both toys were identical to their individual releases. In Megatron's case, that means unchromed gray plastic, blue instead of red, and a functional firing mechanism and sword, instead of the scope, silencer and stock. This box also used an altered version of the individual release's box-art, turning his head sideways to face Prime, as opposed to the original's camera-facing head position.

{{-}}{{anchor|GoodBye}}
[[Image:G1toy_goodbye_megatron.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''Good Bye Megatron''' (Multi-pack, 1986)
**''Accessories'': Sword, "high-density infrared laser cannon", 20 bullets, targeting sight/fusion cannon

: Megatron was released again as part of a special "Good Bye" set to commemorate his passing ([[Galvatron (G1)|of sorts]]) in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'', packaged with [[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]] (who also was now no more). Although it still lacked the chrome seen on the Hasbro version of the toy, this edition of the figure replaced the blue plastic seen on previous Takara releases with Hasbro's show-accurate red, and included the fusion cannon accessory for the first time with a Takara release, complete with the mounting point now added to Megatron's right arm. Though still lacking the silencer and stock, the toy retained its Japanese-exclusive sword accessory and its bullet-firing mechanism, with one modification: The bullets, formerly blue, were now red.

: Despite the change to the toy's colors, the box art on this set, the same art used for the [[Hasbro]] releases, was recolored to match the blue of the ''previous'' releases. Whoops.

{{-}}
*'''Galvatron''' (Decepticon [[City Commander]], 1986)

{{main|Galvatron (G1)/toys}}

{{-}}{{anchor|ActionMaster}}
*'''Neutro-Fusion Tank with Megatron''' (Action Master, 1990)
**''Accessories'': Neutro-Fusion Tank, 4 missiles, "twin laser cannon"
[[Image:Neutro-fusiontanktoy1.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Uh-oh! Visual interest!]]
: Megatron returned as an ''[[Action Master]]'' in 1990, and as with most ''Action Master'' figures, he could not transform. His sculpt was based heavily upon the character's animation model design. Megatron is compatible with all other Action Master accessories and vehicles.

: He came packaged with the [[Neutro-Fusion Tank]], a large tank vehicle whose hull could transform into a base/gun emplacement, with the turret forming a flight pod. Four "corrosive smoke shell" accessories mounted on both sides of the tank. There are seats for two Action Master figures on the front on either side of the barrel, another seat inside the turret, and four pegs on the back of the tank for standing additional Action Master figures.

:The tank's turret can detach and become a "jet throne," which features flip-out wings, and the body of the tank transforms into a missile-launcher battle station. The battle station has two seats on either side behind the missile launchers (non-firing) and a stowing bay in the center for an additional figure.

:In a fairly notable omission, ''Action Master'' Megatron did not come with the character's iconic fusion cannon accessory. In 1992, however, a Japanese fan sculpted his own cannon accessory, which could plug into the figure's arm using the shoulder screw-hole (seen in the image at right). In a surprising move, Takara gave this cannon their approval and allowed it to be officially sold with their copyright stamp at a Japanese convention {{fact|which one?}} for only one day, at the price of 2000 yen.

::*''[http://tfu.info/1990/Decepticon/Megatron/megatron.htm More information on Action Master Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|2001reissue}}
[[Image:G1toy_2000_megatron_reissue.jpg|thumb|300px]]
*'''Megatron''' (reissue, 2001)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''16-S'''
**''Accessories'': Silencer, stock, telescopic sight/fusion cannon, "high-density infrared laser cannon", sword, 20 bullets

:This reissue of the original Megatron figure combines the best aspects of the Hasbro and Takara versions into the most "complete" version of Megatron available at that point. The set features the chromed chest and arms and red plastic of the Hasbro release, and includes the silencer, stock and sight/cannon, while also coming with Takara's sword and functional bullet-firing mechanism.

:This reissue was redecoed to make the simultaneously available exclusive "Megatron Black Version" (see below).

{{-}}{{anchor|BlackG1}}
[[Image:G1toy_black_megatron.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''Megatron Black Version''' (2001)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''16-S'''
**''Accessories'': Silencer, stock, telescopic sight/fusion cannon, "high-density infrared laser cannon", sword, 20 bullets

: Where the original Takara Megatron toy made use of one of the two color schemes of the original ''Microman'' Gun Robo P38 toy, this redeco of the 2000 reissue Megatron is an homage to the ''second'', black color scheme for the ''Microman'' toy. Available exclusively through e-Hobby and pre-orders at [[BotCon Japan 2000]], "Megatron Black Version" features dark gunmetal chrome, black plastic instead of grey, and distinctive brown gun handle-grips, fists and "inner helmet". The chrome replaces the flat black plastic of the original ''Microman'' toy, which also had blue plastic on its legs and arms that is here supplanted by Megatron's now-traditional red. The toy was limited to 1000 pieces.

: E-Hobby later reissued Megatron Black Version in February, 2009. This release includes a [[Decepticon Leader Megatron Black Ver.|mini-comic]] explaining the story behind the redeco.

::*''[http://tfu.info/2000/Destron/BlackMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Megatron Black Version at TFU.info]''

{{-}}

===Generation 2===
[[Image:G2Megatron toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|G2 Megatron is always ready for tank combat in one of Earth's many green and purple jungles.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Decepticon, 1992)
**''Accessories'': Rifle, 6 missiles, sight

: Owing to the inability of Hasbro to re-release the original Megatron because that toy was a pistol, ''[[Generation 2 (toyline)|Generation 2]]'' Megatron was released in 1992 as a large green M1A1 Abrams main battle tank. His main gimmick was a 'lock and load' cannon that can load most of his projectile ammunition, and then fire them one at a time. This was accompanied by electronic sounds (including engine, laser and cannon sound effects) and a voice chip.

: In robot mode, Megatron is by the standards of the time, a very large robot, towering over all ''Generation 2'' incarnations of Optimus Prime. His legs were immobile, but he had upper shoulder rotation and elbow joints. His left arm, when raised, activates a laser sound. Pressing down on his head activates his battlecry '''"Megatron Attack!"'''. His main cannon still functions in this mode.

: This mold was slightly redecoed (with new stickers) as [[Megastorm]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/1993/Decepticon/Megatron/megatron.htm More information on Generation 2 Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|Hero}}
[[Image:G2 CombatHero Megatron toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|By this point, the purple had almost completely taken over his body.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Hero, 1995)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''TRF-2'''
**''Accessories'': Rifle, 2 air-launch missiles

:Megatron was released again the following year as "Hero" Megatron: a smaller, but similarly styled tank based off the M1 Abrams. This Megatron was purple and came with a bellows that fired an air-propelled missile. Both missiles could be kept on Megatron thanks to clips on his turret, which become his robot mode arms... conveniently kinda simulating the "classic" Megatron arm cannon to boot.

: Hero Megatron was designed with articulation in mind, so he was loaded with multiple swivel and universal joints, giving him far greater movement compared to his original ''Generation 2'' toy.

: This toy was released in Europe, albeit with a "MEGATRON RULES"-free blank chest sticker, as [[Archforce]]. It was also [[Redeco|redecoed]] into ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Bludgeon (RID)|Bludgeon]] in 2003 (which has since been [[Repurposing|repurposed]] to become "[[Shattered Glass (toyline)]]" [[Bludgeon (SG)|Bludgeon]]).

::*''[http://tfu.info/1994/Decepticon/Megatron/megatron.htm More information on Hero Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{-}}{{anchor|Go-Bot}}
[[Image:Megatron-G2GoBot.jpg|right|300px|thumb|He'd be a better shot if he could only see over his hood-chest.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Go-Bot, 1995)
**''Accessories'': Rifle

: Part of the second assortment of [[Go-Bot (G2)|Go-Bots]], this version of Megatron is a mild [[redeco]] of the Autobot [[Blowout]], transforming into a 1:64-scale Porsche 959 sports car with through-axle construction. This not only makes him roll exceptionally fast in car mode, but also makes him largely compatible with playsets from the "Hot Wheels" and "Matchbox" toy-car lines. Megatron and Blowout share the same blue and black inner robot colors, but Megatron uses opaque silver plastic with a shiny metallic silver paint overcoat, as opposed to Blowout's smoky-clear plastic. (All of the toys from the first wave that had transparent plastics were released in this wave with opaques instead; Blowout and [[Firecracker]] became new versions of Megatron and [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Optimus Prime]] respectively, while [[Gearhead]] and [[Motormouth]] stayed themselves.)

: In Japan, his hood was tampographed with a stylized "T" with the ''Transformers'' logo set within the top bar, the same deco that appears on Go-Bots [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] and the Japanese release of Go-Bots Optimus Prime.

:This mold was also used to make Go-Bots [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] and ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Hot Shot (RID)|Hot Shot]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/1995/Decepticon/Megatron/megatron.htm More information on Go-Bot Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|CombatHero}}
[[Image:CombatHeroMegatron.jpg|right|200px|thumb|I AM POWERED BY UNOBTAINIUM!]]
*'''Megatron''' (Combat Hero, unreleased)
**''Accessories'': rifle, 2 air-launch missiles

: This kinda-sorta "arctic"-camo version of the [[#Hero|Hero Megatron]] toy was solicited to numerous retailers, and is one of a great many ''Generation 2'' toys to never see the light of day. Precious few samples of this toy exist.

: At [[BotCon 1996]], a donated Combat Hero Megatron was one of the items in the charity auction, along with several other canceled ''Generation 2'' toys.

{{canceledtoy}}
{{-}}{{anchor|ATB}}
[[Image:G2toy_ATB_megs_and_screamer.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Cancelled?! This is all YOUR fault, Starscream!]]
*'''Megatron''' (Decepticon, unreleased)
**''Accessories'': 12 missiles, 2 missiles launchers

: A planned-but-canceled redeco of ''Generation 2'' [[Dreadwing (G2)|Dreadwing]], Megatron would have transformed into a "flying wing" Advanced Tactical Bomber (when combined with his smaller "partner" [[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]]) with an under-slung six-missile gatling cannon. Each wing can store three mose missiles, which can "carpet-bomb" targets below by pressing the pressure-launch buttons above each. He can also transform into a treaded "tank" mode, activated by removing Starscream from the jet mode and activating a spring-loaded [[Autotransformation|autotransform]] mechanism in his wings.

: This toy's deco was used to make ''[[Beast Wars II (toyline)|Beast Wars II]]''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s [[BB]] and [[Starscream (BWII)|Starscream]] out of the same mold-set. This mold was also used to make ''Robots in Disguise'' [[Dreadwind (RID)|Dreadwind]] and ''[[Robot Masters (franchise)|Robot Masters]]'' [[Gigant Bomb]].

: According to the Toy Fair 1995 Transformers presentation, the toy's missiles were intended to glow in the dark. This feature was not carried over with the Beast Wars II BB/Starscream set.

{{canceledtoy}}
{{-}}

===Beast Wars===
As stated below, early on the life of the [[Beast Wars (toyline)|''Beast Wars'' toyline]], before the debut of the ''[[Beast Wars (cartoon)|Beast Wars]]'' cartoon (which definitively established ''Beast Wars'' [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]] as a separate, distinct character), the accompanying packaging profiles and mini-comic for the very first ''Beast Wars'' Megatron figure indicated that he was the same Megatron from Generation 1/2.

[[Image:BWtoy-MegatronBasic.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Go Gators!]]
* '''Optimus Primal VS Megatron''' (Basic 2-pack, 1996)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''VS-6'''
**''Accessories:'' Gun/tail

: The initial version of ''[[Beast Wars (toyline)|Beast Wars]]'' Megatron transformed into a green alligator. The toy is a [[retool]] of [[Iguanus (BW)|Iguanus]] with new alligator and robot heads, and no frill. The screw hole for the frill bracket remains. Both toys were released at roughly the same time.

:Whether this toy can be considered the ''Beast Wars'' [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]] character as seen in the primary fiction is a matter of debate. Released before the cartoon series began, which established Megatron as a separate entity from Generation 1 Megatron, the accompanying profiles and mini-comic seem to assume that the Beast Wars are a progression of the same characters from the Autobot/Decepticon war. Whether the animated series's [[retcon]] affected this set of toys is probably a matter of personal preference. It can be interpreted as representing one of the more interesting [[micro-continuity|micro-continuities]].

:More recently, the ''[[Beast Wars Sourcebook]]'' has asserted that, in [[Beast Wars timeline (IDW)|IDW's version of ''Beast Wars'' continuity]], Megatron's alligator body was suggested by the ''Darksyde'''s computer as a potential alternate mode, but he rejected it in favor of the more powerful T-Rex, without ever actually reformatting into it. Thus, this [[micro-continuity]] posits alligator-mode Megatron as an essentially theoretical alternate form that never actually came to be.

:This mold was additionally used to make the purple-recolored Megaligator (who may or may not be a separate character to either Megatron or Megatron Beast Wars Megatron). It was also proposed for [[Albitron]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/1996/Predacon/MegatronGator/megatron.htm More information on Beast Wars Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|BWultra}}
[[Image:Bwmegatron toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Don't call him Barney.]]
* '''Megatron''' (Ultra, 1996)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''D-1'''
**''Accessories:'' Two missiles, water squirter

: This Megatron transformed into a purple organic ''Tyrannosaurus rex''. He has limited articulation in beast mode, but his dinosaur head can [[Water-squirting gimmick|shoot water]]. In robot mode, he has no hands, as his right arm ends with his dinosaur head, and his tail, folded into a pincer, forms his left arm. The outer shells of his dinosaur thighs conceal spring-loaded missile launchers that fire anchor-shaped projectiles.

: His robot head feature two bat-like wing adornments that fold to become a [[mutant head]].

:Like his previous Beast Wars toy, this toy was released before the animated series premiered, and represented G1 Megatron having upgraded his Alligator body into a more powerful form.

: This mold was also used to make the ''[[Beast Machines (toyline)|Beast Machines]]'' [[Dinobot (BM)|Dinobot]] [[T-Wrecks]].

{{-}}{{anchor|GatorJ}}
* '''Megaligator''' (Basic, 1997)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''D-6'''
**''Accessories:'' Gun/tail

: In Japan, the gator Megatron toy was also sold as an individual toy, as well as in a VS pack with Optimus. The individual release is identical to the two-pack version, which is in turn identical to the Hasbro version.

{{-}}{{anchor|CDgator}}
*'''Convobat vs Megaligator''' (Basic 2-pack, 1997)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''S-1'''
**''Accessories:'' Gun/tail

:This figure is a purple [[redeco]] of Megatron's alligator form, and was sold with a red and blue redeco of Bat Primal. This may or may not be intended to be the same character as Megatron or Generation 1 Megatron.

===Machine Wars===
[[Image:MWMegatron toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|And that's why Thundercracker turned green.]]
* '''Megatron''' (Basic, 1997)
**''Accessories'': 2-part rifle

: Sharing a mold with his concurrently-released ally [[Megaplex]] (which had been a canceled mold developed for ''Generation 2''), ''[[Machine Wars]]'' Megatron transforms from a [[Popular Earth vehicle alternate modes|Lockheed-Martin F-22 Raptor fighter jet]] to robot mode with a spring-loaded one-step transformation. The two halves of his rifle store in the back of his robot-mode legs.

: Oddly, the ''Machine Wars'' stock photos (and even the boxart) portray Megatron as the gray F-22 jet and Megaplex as the blue one, the ''opposite'' of the actual toys. This means that either the package designers made the mistake, or the toys were packaged on the wrong cards. The latter is more likely, since gray is more associated with Megatron than blue. Like most other toys in the line, the boxart was recycled from an earlier figure, in this case from the [[Predator (subgroup)|Predator]] [[Falcon (G1)|Falcon]].

: This mold was also used to make ''[[Beast Wars II (toyline)|Beast Wars II]]'' [[Thrust (BWII)|Thrust]], ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Wind Sheer (RID)|Wind Sheer]], and ''[[Robot Masters (franchise)|Robot Masters]]'' [[Air Hunter]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/1997/Decepticon/Megatron/megatron.htm More information on Machine Wars Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
===Choro-Q Robo===
[[Image:Choroq_megatron.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]

* '''Megatron TV Version''' (2001)
**''Japanese ID Number:'' '''Q/03'''

:''[[Choro-Q|Choro-Q Robo]]'' Megatron is a small, cutesified transforming figure of the Decepticon leader. He is the only ''Choro-Q Robo'' Transformers figure that does not come with a weapon accessory, but after all, he does turn ''into'' a gun. In a bizarre and hilarious touch, Megatron has wheels on his base and barrel, so that he can share the common feature of the ''Choro-Q Robo'' figures: a pull-back motor!

* '''Megatron Black Version''' (2001)
**''Japanese ID Number:'' '''Q/04'''

:This version of ''Choro-Q Robo'' Megatron is a redeco of the first, decked out in a metallic color scheme based on the "Black Version" of the reissue of the Generation 1 figure released earlier that year.
{{-}}

===Transformers Collection===
{{anchor|TFCMegatron}}
[[Image:G1toy_tfc_megatron.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''Megatron''' (2003)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''6'''
**''Accessories'': Silencer, stock, telescopic sight/fusion cannon, "high-density infrared laser cannon", sword, 20 bullets

:The original Generation 1 Megatron figure was again reissued in 2003 as part of Takara's ''[[Transformers Collection]]'' series. This release was identical to the previous 2000 reissue, in that it featured the colors of the Hasbro release of the toy, and all the accessories of both the Hasbro and Takara versions, but this time, it also included a new energon mace weapon, as used by the Decepticon leader in the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 2]]". Much like the [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|"New Year Special"]] version of Optimus Prime released the previous year, Megatron also came with a sheet of Decepticon [[insignia]] stickers of different sizes, and a Decepticon mouse pad.

::*''[http://tfu.info/1984/Decepticon/Megatron/megatron.htm More information on Transformers Collection Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|TFCStarscream}}
[[Image:TFC09ScreamerHoldingMegs.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Sometimes I just... want to be held.]]
* '''Starscream''' (Transformers Collection, 2002)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''9'''
: A diminutive version of Megatron in his Walther P-38 mode was included as a new accessory with the ''Transformers Collection'' release of Starscream. Needless to say, he doesn't transform, but can be held by Starscream in both modes. Megatron's handle disconnects to reveal a peg, which can then be inserted into either of Starscream's fists, which were specifically resculpted for this purpose. Each fist also features a tab on its underside, into which Megatron's handle can be inserted, completing the effect. Megatron can also attach to Starscream's jet mode; the right-hand side of Megatron's handle features a square peg which is designed to fit snugly in gaps in Stasrcream's pectorals, as in the Generation 1 episode, "[[S.O.S. Dinobots]]". Unfortunately, this peg has, for no fathomable reason, been cast in the same sky blue color as Screamer's hands, unnecessarily making it ''as obtrusive as humanly possible''.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2003/Destron/AnimeStarscream/starscream.htm More information on Transformers Collection Starscream at TFU.info]''
{{--}}

===Smallest Transforming Transformers===
[[Image:STFMegatron toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Not 20th Anniversary Optimus Prime's gun.]]
*'''Megatron''' (2004)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''GTF 07'''
**''Accessories:'' Fusion cannon/scope

: ''[[Smallest Transforming Transformers]]'' Megatron was released in the second wave of the diminutive Takara toyline, including only his fusion cannon. Easily the most complex of the ''Smallest Transforming'' figures, Megatron is a just-barely-simplified version of his original Generation 1 toy, possessing the same transformation scheme and retaining most of his articulation.

:Just as ''Smallest Transforming'' Optimus Prime's trailer was released as a separate figure in the line, so too were a set of silencer and stock attachments originally intended to be released for Megatron in the line's third wave. Unfortunately, this wave, and most of the other original figures it was set to contain, was cancelled, and so Megatron was left under-armed.

::*''[http://tfu.info/2004/Destron/SmallestMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Smallest Transforming Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}

[[Image:Wst vsx megatron.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
* '''Convoy vs Megatron''' (multipack, 2004)
** ''Japanese ID Number:'' '''VSX'''
** ''Accessories:'' Fusion cannon/scope

:Available exclusively through [[Dengeki Hobby]] magazine, this ''Smallest Transforming Transformers'' two-pack contains both Optimus Prime and Megatron, in homage to the original 1984 "VSX" giftset containing the original versions of the two leaders. While Optimus is unaltered from his original release, Megatron takes the homage a little further, removing the swirled pattern from the original figure's chest and replacing the red plastic with blue to emulate the original Takara version of the full-size Generation 1 figure.
{{--}}

===Robot Masters===
[[Image:RMReverseConvoy toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|My Convoy counterpart is nearby. Real nearby.]]
*'''Reverse Convoy''' (Deluxe, 2004)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''RM-24'''
**''Accessories'': "Reverse Blaster", missile

: A [[retool]] of the ''[[Generation 2 (toyline)|Generation 2]]'' "Hero Megatron" toy, Rebirth Megatron transforms into a heavily modified blue and tan [[Popular Earth vehicle alternate modes|M1 Abrams tank]]. In addition to a new "[[Reverse Convoy]]" head that flips out of the same compartment as the head on the original version of the mold, the toy features a brand new "Mega Blaster" cannon assembly that houses most of the toy's new features. The Mega Blaster fires a spring-loaded blue missile, and the rear of the cannon can be removed and transformed into the hand-held "Reverse Blaster" weapon, featuring twin barrels and a rack of six (non-removable) missiles. Once the Reverse Blaster is removed, the toy's "Rebirth Megatron" head can be rotated out from the back of the cannon to take the place of Reverse Convoy's head between the figure's shoulders.

: The original version of this mold was use to make [[Archforce]] and ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Bludgeon (RID)|Bludgeon]] (which has been [[Repurposing|repurposed]] to also be "[[Shattered Glass (toyline)|Shattered Glass]]" [[Bludgeon (SG)|Bludgeon]]). The toy still retains the opening panels on its forearms, despite no longer featuring the large missiles they are designed to store.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2005/Destron/ReverseConvoy/reverseconvoy.htm More information on Reverse Convoy at TFU.info]''

{{-}}
===20th Anniversary/Masterpiece===

[[Image:GunmodeMegsMasterpieceConvoy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Bang bang! He shot me down! Bang bang! I hit the ground...]]
* '''Optimus Prime''' (2003/2004)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''MP-1'''

: ''20th Anniversary'' Optimus Prime included an accessory of Megatron in his classic Walther P-38 altmode. Although non-transforming, it is quite detailed and includes the individually removable silencer / barrel extension, scope, and (hinged) stock. Although notionally [[Scale|scaled]] to be wielded by Masterpiece Prime, the handle is marginally too short and thus has a sliding joint diagonally across the butt of the gun, thus slightly lengthening and narrowing the grip so that Prime can actually hold it. The reason for this odd design concept is unknown.
: Needless to say, the later-released Masterpiece [[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]] (and [[Skywarp (G1)|his]] [[Thundercracker (G1)|redecoes]]) can also hold this version of Megatron, and far more appropriately too! The three [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]] each include a small round clip that plugs in under their nosecones, allowing them to wield Megatron while in jet mode, as Starscream did in "S.O.S. Dinobots".
: The stock extension connecting clamp is prone to breakage, much to the chagrin of owners who keep theirs sealed and untouched.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2004/Autobot/20thPrime/optimusprime.htm More information on 20th Anniversary Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
* '''Masterpiece Ultra Magnus''' (2004)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''MP-2'''

:A redeco of the non-transforming Megatron gun accessory was included with ''Masterpiece'' [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/toys|Ultra Magnus]], itself a redeco of ''Masterpiece'' Prime/Convoy. For this release, Megatron was decked out in his secondary ''Microchange'' color scheme, which had previously been used on the eHobby exclusive "Megatron Black Version".

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2005/Cybertron/UltraMagnus/ultramagnus.htm More information on Masterpiece Ultra Magnus at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|MasterpieceMegs}}
[[Image:MP05_megatron.jpg|right|400px|thumb|You will pay dearly for this. Literally and metaphorically...]]
*'''Megatron''' (2007)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''MP-5'''
**''Accessories:'' Fusion cannon, energon mace, energy dagger, laser pistol, [[Kremzeek]] figure

: Scaled to the same height as ''20th Anniversary'' Optimus Prime, ''Masterpiece'' Megatron is an incredibly complex figure—potentially one of the most complicated ''Transformers'' toys to date—designed to depict a fairly [[Show-accuracy|show-accurate]] Megatron capable of transforming into a realistic (if oversized) Walther P-38. In achieving this seemingly impossible goal, Megatron winds up with the least articulation of the ''Masterpiece'' line, as well as a notably low percentage of die-cast metal.

: Like Prime before him, Megatron comes with several of his iconic accessories from the Generation 1 cartoon: his energon mace from "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 2]]", the energy dagger and laser pistol used in his duel against Prime in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'', and a tiny translucent [[Kremzeek]] figure. His fusion cannon also contains a powerful red LED activated when the round detailing on the side of his cannon is pressed.

: Due to concern surrounding updated realistic toy gun laws, some online importers modified ''Masterpiece'' Megatron in order to safely get the toy through United States customs. This customarily involved inserting plugs into the tip of the toy's barrel, from rounded red ones affixed by adhesive to [[:Image:HLJplug.jpg|flat-tipped yellow ones]] that could be easily removed. Ultimately, there were no reports of problems with the toy making its way into America, but Australia was another matter. Considered a replica gun and therefore a "restricted import" by Australian Customs, both mass shipments and individual packages of the toy were seized, requiring buyers in some areas to obtain a special permit to own him.

: Given the relatively thin clips throughout the toy to hold it tightly together in gun mode, Megatron's plastic components are particularly prone to breakage, especially on the clips on the upper black grip plates and some of the silver sections near the trigger. Many owners of this figure have also reported rust and tarnish problems on what few metal pieces he has; if your Megatron is a sufferer, check out [http://seibertron.com/energonpub/viewtopic.php?t=16106 this guide] for solutions.

::*''[http://tfu.info/2007/Destron/MPMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Masterpiece Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===Titanium Series===
[[Image:TitaniumGIJoeHeroesMegatron toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|THE BOX OF DOOM.]]
*'''Megatron''' (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2006)
**''Accessories'': Stand with nameplate

:Part of the very first wave of six-inch ''[[Titanium Series]]'' toys, Megatron was inspired by [[Dreamwave Productions]]' first ''[[G.I. Joe (franchise)|G.I. Joe]]'' crossover, set in an alternate-reality World War II. Since that Megatron's gun form was nonviable as a toy, a tank alternate mode (of undetermined, probably-entirely-made-up model) was designed. The backstory of the Megatron from the crossover, including references to Cobra, was retained on the package, make it the first U.S. figure ever produced as part of a ''G.I. Joe / [[Transformers brand|Transformers]]'' crossover.

:Although the figure looks somewhat impressive, it notably has the tendency to fall apart during transformation and was relatively difficult to pose in robot mode without it falling over.

::*''[http://tfu.info/2006/Decepticon/TitMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Titanium Megatron at TFU.info]]'

{{-}}{{anchor|TiWarWithin}}
[[Image:Megatrontitaniumtww.jpg|right|300px|thumb|THE... NAP OF DOOM?]]
*'''War Within Megatron''' (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2007)
**''Accessories'': Arm cannon, shield, stand with nameplate

:A new ''Titanium Series'' Megatron based on his [[The War Within|''War Within'']] design was initially shown at [[BotCon 2006]], and was released in spring of 2007. Like the original comic book design, his robot mode has a removable arm cannon and shield, but unlike the original comic book design, his robot mode transforms into his alternate mode at a different angle.

:As opposed to the earlier toy, this one has a more posable robot mode, but somewhat unimpressive alternate mode, being little more than lying the toy on its back and attaching the gun/shield. There is a small clip on the back of the toy which designer [[Don Figueroa]] said was to hold his sword, seen in the comic book, but that accessory was ultimately not produced.

::*''[http://tfu.info/2007/Decepticon/TitTWWMegatron/megatron.htm More information on War Within Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{-}}{{anchor|WarWithin2pack}}
[[Image:Titanium_war_within_2pack.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''War Within Optimus Prime / War Within Megatron''' (2-pack, 2007)
**''Accessories'': Arm cannon, shield

:This Toys "R" Us [[exclusive]] two-pack features [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Optimus Prime]] and Megatron as they appeared in the ''War Within'' comic series. Though the Megatron in this set is identical to its individual release, Optimus loses the paint wash, making him much cleaner-looking.

: The set also came with [[The War Within issue 5|the fifth issue of the ''War Within'' comic book]], featuring a variant cover exclusive to this release.
{{--}}
===Classics (2006)===
[[Image:Megatronclassicstoy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Paint me black and give me to a kid, ASAP.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Voyager, 2006)

:''Classics'' Megatron is a "fusion blaster" based loosely on the original Megatron toy and appears to transform into a [[:Image:N-strike maverick.jpg|Nerf N-Strike Maverick blaster]] to comply with modern US toy gun regulations (an orange cap on a Walther P-38 won't cover it). Its scope/arm cannon houses a working crosshairs and its trigger includes clicking action. In order to pass modern safety regulations (both the government's and Hasbro's), its blaster mode includes lots of purple and green, plus bright orange on both the tip of the "barrel" and the scope.

:Although some [[stock photography|official Hasbro photographs]], including those appearing on the toy's [[packaging]], show the gun mode's trigger and other small parts as being orange, those parts were gray in later stock photography and the final release.

:In these above-mentioned early promotional photographs, Megatron also had noticeably different "eyebrow" [[paint operation]]s that matched those of the original Megatron toy. These were two small black triangles on a gray plastic forehead. The final release has the placement of the black reversed, with two small gray triangles and a black forehead, sometimes referred to as Megatron's "unibrow" by fans.

:It has been recently discovered that the orange parts on Megatron, particularly the more exposed ones, seem to have their colors fade out over time. The exact cause of this change has not yet been discovered but care should be taken to avoid this from happening.

:In a glaring example of poor [[quality control]], the back of the packaging reads "working scope becomes anti-proton pulse ''[[canon]]''!"

:''Classics'' Megatron was redecoed in Japan as part of the ''[[Henkei! Henkei! (toyline)|Henkei! Henkei!]] Transformers'' line by [[TakaraTomy]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/2006/Decepticon/ClassicsMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Classics Voyager Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|Ultimate.2BBattle}}

[[Image:MegatronUltimateBattle.jpg|right|300px|thumb|The only Transformer capable of Moonwalking, seriously.]]
*'''Optimus Prime vs Megatron: The Ultimate Battle''' (Deluxe versus set, 2006)
**''Accessories'': Rifle

: The Megatron included in this two-pack is a tank inspired by the first Megatron toy from ''Generation 2''. Instead of a right hand, its arm ends in a blade with "spinning dervish action." He is packaged with Optimus Prime and "[[Optimus Prime vs Megatron: The Ultimate Battle|The Ultimate Battle]]" DVD. Later releases of this toy in Mexico and some European countries had him individually packed but otherwise unchanged from the original release.

:Many (all?) units of this figure have Megatron's splayed feet [[Misassembly|swapped and assembled backwards]], a fact which is not immediately apparent as the "heel" half of his feet are actually larger than the "toe" half (this is the opposite of most splay-footed transformers), and the situation is not helped by the promotional (exhibit A, to your right) and box-art photography displaying an identically misassembled figure. However, examination of the instructions and any attempt to transform Megatron into tank mode immediately demonstrate the mistake, which is easily corrected by unscrewing the halves of his lower legs, reversing the foot pieces, and attaching each to the opposite leg.

:In 2008, the Optimus Prime vs Megatron set, sans DVD, has been reissued to outlets like Kay Bee in new [[Universe (2008 franchise)|Universe]] packaging. The feet are still misassembled. The same set has also been seen at Dollar General and Big Lots! stores since 2007.

::*''[http://tfu.info/2006/Decepticon/ClassicsDVDMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Classics Deluxe Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===Sports Label===
*'''Megatron Nike Free 7.0''' (2007)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''02'''
[[Image:Nikeatron.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Some idiots thought I was going to be life-sized! Fools! Foooools!!!]]

:Seeking to exploit the tremendous energy potential of sweatshops, Megatron has taken on this new altmode to cement his alliance with [[wikipedia:Nike,_Inc.|Nike Inc.]], since [[Cobra]] evidently wasn't enough of an evil empire for him...

:''[[Sport Label]]'', a rather unusual product line comprising a mere three entries, entirely utilizes the same body mold with different heads, making this the first time Optimus and Megatron have had identical bodies.

:Something of a [[shellformer]], Nikeatron is colored primarily black and gray in his altmode of a realistic-looking, scaled-down Nike sneaker, complete with (gratuitously long) real fabric shoelaces. In robot mode, he incorporates a little additional red in predictable areas and has a somewhat uniquely-shaped yet instantly recognizable G1-inspired head, with rather snooty (or camp, take your pick) pursed lips. An undocumented aspect of his transformation is that his gun, which splits in two halves and stores inside his [[kibble]] when transforming (much like [[Rattrap]]'s) has two handle pegs on opposite sides, so that the gun can be held either at its far end or halfway along its length. Additionally, the Megatron figure has an extra peg hole in his right forearm (well, technically so does Prime), allowing you to insert the mid-length plug of his black-colored weapon at this point, positioning the weapon in such a way as to resemble (''vaguely'') his traditional [[fusion cannon]], rather than simply holding it in his hand.

:Somewhat perversely, Sneakertron's feet are sculpted in the likeness of his own sneaker altmode, so in effect, ''he is wearing himself!'' Kinky...

::*''[http://tfu.info/2007/Destron/SLMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Sports Label Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===Encore===

*'''Megatron''' (2007)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''02'''
**''Accessories'': Silencer, stock, telescopic sight/fusion cannon, "high-density infrared laser cannon", sword, 20 bullets

:The original Generation 1 Megatron figure was reissued yet again in 2007 as part of TakaraTomy's new line of "[[Encore|Transformers Encore]]" reissues. Like previous reissues, this Megatron features the Hasbro colors and the accessories from both Hasbro and Takara editions of the figure, but this time, he features a tan finish to his chrome rather than the normal colorless-silver finish.
{{-}}

===Henkei! Henkei!===
[[Image:Henkei Megatron Toy.jpg|right|250px|thumb|"Megatron's palette must be swapped... no matter the cost."]]
*'''Megatron''' (Voyager, 2008)
**''Japanese ID Number:'' '''D-01'''

:''[[Henkei! Henkei! (toyline)|Henkei! Henkei!]] Transformers'' Megatron is a redeco of the ''Classics'' version. He features a significantly altered colour scheme, generally to make the toy more closely resemble his appearance in the ''Generation 1'' cartoon and the original toyline. His chest plate is chromed silver, as well as the top of his knee guards.

::*''[http://tfu.info/2006/Decepticon/ClassicsMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Henkei Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===Universe (2008)===
*'''Megatron''' (Legends of Cybertron, 2008)

[[Image:Megatronlegend2008.jpg|right|200px|thumb|His shoulders hurt too, buddy!]]
:A [[Legends Class]] version of Megatron inspired by his ''Generation 2'' tank design, although featuring a more realistic shade of green.
:Sadly, because of his transformation, when transformed into tank mode his turret doesn't turn around.

::*''[http://tfu.info/2008/Decepticon/LegendsMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Universe Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
[[Image:Universe2008-toy SEMegatron.JPG|right|250px|thumb|]]
*'''Megatron''' (Deluxe Class: Special Edition, 2008)

:A redeco of the "Ultimate Battle" Megatron from ''Classics'', this time featuring a G1-inspired deco of grays, red and black. This new deco takes advantage of the mould break-up to add an additional plastic colour (5, rather than the original's 4). In actuality the dark grey parts on the original version of the mould are now divided between light grey, red and black plastic on the "Special Edition" version. This is really obvious if one compares their guns. "Ultimate Battle" Megatron's is solid grey, while "Special Edition" Megatron's sports a red stock.

:The Special Edition toy was designed for Australasian markets and features a bookbox style packaging with black-and-white boxart. The box better be good since he supports an inflated price tag as well (usually about 150% the standard Deluxe price for Deluxe figures outside the U.S., but it wasn't uncommon for him to be sold solo for as much as the "Special Edition" double-pack). He was not available at retail in North America, but was for sale on Hasbrotoyshop.com, like the other Special Edition toys.

:His feet are correctly assembled this time around, so yay for that.

:Oddly enough, this Megatron and the three other Universe Special Edition toys were included in Taiwanese special value packs each containing a [[Revenge of the Fallen DVD field guide|''Revenge of the Fallen'' DVD]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/2008/Decepticon/HTSMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Special Edition Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===Alternity===
[[Image:Alternity Megatron Toy Blade Silver.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Behold, my Inertia Manipulating Device under my Skirt Armor!!!]]
*'''Megatron Blade Silver''' (2009)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''A-02'''
**''Accessories:'' 2 "tesseractal swords"
:The ''[[Alternity (franchise)|Alternity]]'' Megatron toy transforms into a 1:32 scale model of a Nissan 370Z and features die-cast metal parts and rubber tires. The figure wields two "tesseractal swords" which can be pegged at its hips, or stored under the car in vehicle mode. Each forearm features a flip-out "gravital blade."

: In the hyper-dimensional world of the oft-confusing ''Alternity'' fiction, each figure from this line represents a distinct version of a character from a separate [[universal stream]], but which precise Megatron the "Blade Silver" toy embodies has not been disclosed. Upon its initial release, this toy was also available in blue (see below), and later redecoed in a black variant as well.

{{-}}
*'''Megatron Premium Le Mans Blue''' (2009)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''A-02'''
**''Accessories:'' 2 "tesseractal swords"

: "Premium Le Mans Blue" Megatron is a blue redeco of the "Blade Silver" version, representing the Megatron of [[universal stream]] [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity#Story_of_Binaltech|Primax 903.0 Beta]]. The figure was available simultaneously with Megatron Blade Silver, sharing the same packaging and pack-in materials, save for the color of the illustration on the front of the box, and a sticker that identified the figure within.

{{-}}
*'''Megatron Diamond Black''' (2009)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''A-02'''
**''Accessories:'' 2 "tesseractal swords"

: Another redeco of ''Alternity'' Megatron, this time transforming into a black car with robot parts in red and gold, and specifically representing the Megatron of universal stream [[Megatron (G1)#Alternity|Primax 1286:3 Kappa]]. It was released several months after the first two Megatrons and featured a new package illustration.

{{-}}

===Generations===
*'''Megatron''' (Legends, 2010)

:This toy is based on Megatron's Generation 1 cartoon appearance and its alt-mode is a variant of the original gun. The toy can be held while in gun mode by Masterpiece Starscream. The robot mode borrows inspiration from the [[All Hail Megatron|IDW]] design, specifically his abdomen.

{{comingsoontoy}}

===United===
*'''Megatron''' (Voyager, 2010)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''UN-09'''
{{comingsoontoy}}

==Merchandise==
===Wireless Microphone===
[[Image:MegsMicrophone.jpg|right|thumb|250px|Die kids construction--it's a lost art.]]
* '''Megatron''' (Nasta, 1984)
:One of the earliest pieces of Megatron merchandise is also one of the strangest. Taking the form of Megatron's Walther P-38 gun mode--itself quite controversial and anachronistic due to [[For safety reasons|recent safety regulations]]--the microphone allows children to broadcast their voices to a nearby AM radio by pointing the gun at their mouth and speaking into it.

:'''''Seriously'''''.
{{-}}

===Choro-Q===
*'''Megatron''' (2000)

:''[[Choro-Q]]'' Megatron is a ''Generation 2''-themed [[redeco]] of the Camouflage Tank toy from Takara's ''Choro-Q'' toyline of non-transforming [[super-deformed]] vehicles. He was an [[exclusive]] at [[BotCon]] Japan 2000, and features a [[pull-back motor]] and a rear license plate that reads "BotCon Japan 2000".

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

===Super Collection Figure===
[[Image:HOC-figure Megatron.JPG|right|300px|thumb|]]
*'''Megatron''' (2000)

: A three-inch tall [[plastic|PVC]] figurine of Megatron was available as part of the first wave of [[TakaraTomy|Takara]]'s ''[[Super Collection Figure]]'' line. Like all the figures in the wave, it was available as both a standard full color figure and a clear plastic version, one of each of which was available in a standard case of twelve [[blindpacking|blindpacked]] figures.

*'''Megatron''' (2000)

:Also available in the first ''Super Collection Figure'' wave was a rare "[[Chase figure|chase]]" version of the Megatron figure, decorated in metallic paint and replacing his right hand with his [[energon mace]].

*'''Convoy w/ Megatron Gun''' (2000)
:The second ''Super Collection Figure'' wave featured an Optimus Prime chase figure wielding Megatron in gun-mode and wearing [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]]'s rocket pack (the latter seen in the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 3]]").

*'''Megatron Reincarnation Version''' (2001)
:Megatron got another chase figure in the third ''Super Collection Figure'' act; this time his original figure was cast in clear with purple accents, apparently based on the scene in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' where he is reincarnated as [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]].

*'''Megatron w/ Condor''' (2001)
:For the fourth ''Super Collection Figure'' wave, Megatron left arm was changed to feature [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] perching on it. Like all the figures in the fourth wave, Megatron was available in both standard full color and metallic silver "pewter" versions, one of each of which was available in a standard case of twelve [[blindpacking|blindpacked]] figures. In eight out of every ten cases, the pewter version of Prime came packaged with the right arm of the collectable [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] build-a-figure.

*'''Convoy w/ Megatron Gun''' (2002)
:The sixth ''Super Collection Figure'' wave featured a different version of Prime wielding Megatron's gun mode, now sold on mass-retail rather than being a chase. Unlike the chase one, Prime also came interchangeable empty fist, so he doesn't ''have'' to wield Megatron. The figure was available in both full color and pewter versions in an equal ratio, and in eight out of every ten cases, the pewter version came with the head for the wave's [[Grand Maximus]] build-a-figure.

[[Image:Scf_convoy_set.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''Exclusive Convoy Set''' (2002)
:Available exclusively at the Japanese Wonder Festival convention, this set included the "Convoy w/ Megatron Gun" figure from the sixth wave, and the vehicle-mode Optimus Prime from act 2, both decorated in colored metallic paint. The set was limited to only 1000 units.

{{-}}
[[Image:Scf_confrontation_set.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''TF Confrontation Set 01: Convoy vs Megatron''' (2002)
**''Accessories:'' Energon mace
:Exclusive to the Tokyo Game Show, this special set included the original first-wave Megatron figure, along with the Optimus Prime PVC from the same wave. Both featured new battle damage [[paint operation]]s, and came with the interchangeable energon mace and axe weapons from their first-wave chase figures. As with the Wonder Festival set, this set was also limited to 1000 units.
{{-}}

===Heroes of Cybertron===

When the ''Super Collection Figure'' series was imported to become Hasbro's ''[[Heroes of Cybertron]]'' line, the figures were all cast entirely in translucent colored plastic, then painted over, save for the eyes and a small patch on the back of their heads, giving them all a [[light-piping]] gimmick. Unlike the Japanese figures, they were sold in individual blister packaging, with character profile cards.

*'''Megatron''' (2002)
:A ''Heroes of Cybertron'' release of the first ''Super Collection Figure'' Megatron figure.

* '''Megatron with Plasma Weapon''' (2002)
:This second-wave ''Heroes of Cybertron'' release of the chase figure from the first ''Super Collection Figure'' wave was a little different from its Japanese progenitor, lacking its metallic paint.

* '''Megatron with Laserbeak''' (2003)
:This fifth-wave ''Heroes of Cybertron'' figure is a release of the Megatron/Laserbeak figure from the fourth ''Super Collection Figure'' wave. It came with the right arm for the wave's collectable [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] build-a-figure.

===MyClone===
* '''Megatron''' (MyClone, 2003)

: A "[[super deformed]]" mini-figure of Megatron was created as part of the first wave of ''[[MyClone]]'' Transformers in Japan. These toys could be disassembled and their parts mixed-and-matched thanks to a generic base body.

* '''Megatron''' (MyClone, 2003)

: ''MyClone'' Megatron was also available as a [[chase figure]] in the same wave: this version was cast in clear plastic.

===Hard Hero===
[[Image:HardHero Megatron bust.JPG|right|150px|thumb|Englishmen, you're all so f@#$ing pompous. None of you have got any balls. ]]
*'''Megatron''' (2002)

:The second of [[Hard Hero]]'s series of ''Transformers'' products, Megatron is a six-inch tall bust sculpted from cold-cast porcelain.

{{-}}

[[Image:HHero_MegatronStatue.jpg|right|150px|thumb|People can pay retail for a [[Thrust_%28G1%29#Generations|Thrust]] now!?!]]
*'''Megatron''' (2003)

:A 12.5-inch tall Megatron statue sculpted aiming his fusion cannon while screaming in rage.

{{-}}

===Generation 1 Figure-Collection===

[[Image:Bottlecap_megatron.jpg|right|thumb|]]

*'''Megatron''' (2003)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''D-1'''
**''Accessories:'' Display base

:At only one inch in height, this Megatron "bottlecap" figurine (so named because its display base is the size of a bottlecap) was one of fourteen blindpacked figures available in Kabaya's Transformers [[Generation 1 Figure-Collection]]. The figure was available in both a "retro" black and white color scheme and a rare full-color [[chase figure|chase]] version, and came with a leaflet, personalized with cartoon screen captures.
::*''[http://snakas.web.infoseek.co.jp/misc_item/kabaya_bottle.htm More information on the Generation 1 collection at Autobase Aichi]''
{{-}}

===Palisades===
[[Image:Palisades_Megatron.jpg|thumb|right|]]
* '''Megatron''' ([[Palisades]], 2005)

:Megatron is a six-inch-tall polystone statue on a silver Decepticon-insignia stand. He is decorated with dirt to simulate battle damage, and has articulation in his head and arms. The statue was an [[exclusive]] at San Diego Comic-Con 2005.

{{-}}

===Diamond Select===
[[Image:DecepticonSnowGlobe.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Ooooooh, who lives in a spacecruiser under the sea?]]
* '''Decepticon Snow Globe''' (Diamond Select, 2007)

:Megatron is featured in [[Diamond Select]]'s Decepticon-themed snow globe, sitting on a throne inside the globe whilst pointing with one hand and holding an [[energon cube]] in the other. The globe's base is based on [[Decepticon Headquarters]] from the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]]. It was sculpted by [[Art Asylum]].

{{-}}
[[Image:Megatron statue.jpg|right|175px|thumb|Wonder if they used his legs to make another [[Alligatorcon]]?]]
* '''Megatron''' (Diamond Select, 2008)

:Released by Diamond Select Toys in 2008, this Megatron mini-bust was sculpted by Mark Wong of Art Asylum and limited to 1,500 pieces. The sculpt features Megatron perched above a raised Decepticon symbol while the front of the bust showcases the [[Heart of Cybertron]] as seen in the G1 episode "[[Microbots]]".
{{-}}
[[Image:Reformatted statue.jpg|right|175px|thumb|Sure, he's NTFS now but he dreams of one day being [[Grand Galvatron|FAT32]].]]
* '''Reformatted Megatron''' (Diamond Select, 2008)

:Released by Diamond Select Toys in 2008, Reformatted Megatron was an exclusive to on-line retailer Action Figure Xpress. He was sculpted by Mark Wong of Art Asylum and limited to 600 pieces. Set above [[Unicron]], the sculpt features Megatron in the beginning stages of his reformation into [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] as featured in [[The Transformers: The Movie]].

{{-}}

[[Image:DST_SDCCToonMegatronBust.jpg|right|thumb|200px|]]
* '''G1 Animated Megatron''' (Diamond Select, 2009)
:G1 Animated Megatron was exclusive to the 2009 San Diego Comic Con. He was sculpted by [[Mark Wong]] of [[Art Asylum]] and features a more matte color scheme to better match the cartoon's palette.

{{-}}

===Attacktix===
*'''Megatron''' (Booster, 2007)
[[Image:Attacktix Megatron.jpg|right|200px|thumb|How am I supposed to aim with this thing in the way?]]
{{attacktix
|ID=TF2-20
|faction=Decepticon
|class=Leader
|special=Recover - 16/26 (61%) success ratio
|cost=40
|speed=6
|attacktype=Shooter (Force Blast)
}}
{{-}}
:Based on his G1 cartoon appearance, this Megatron toy is a killer. He was available only in the Series 2 Starter Set along with ''[[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]]'' [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]], ''[[Energon (franchise)|Energon]]'' [[Landquake (Energon)|Landquake]] and ''[[Cybertron (franchise)|Cybertron]]'' [[Skywarp (Armada)|Skywarp]].

:Megatron has an incredibly powerful translucent missile (don't fire it at children or small dogs if you value their lives) and a ''Recover'' special power that allows the figure to stand back up if there's another Decepticon in play. Two Megatrons are a dangerous combination, feeding each other's recover powers and making them very hard to kill off. Plus you can pretend one of them is [[Straxus (G1)|Straxus]].

:As an added bonus, because of the way it is worded, you can use the ''Cybertron'' [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] vehicle mode figure's ''Transform'' power to bring Megatron into play from your back-ups.
{{-}}

===Robot Heroes===
[[Image:RobotHeroes UltraMagnusMegatron.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Cuteness through tyranny!]]
*'''Ultra Magnus and Megatron''' (2007)

:''[[Robot Heroes]]'' Megatron is an adorably [[super-deformed]] figurine depicting the Decepticon leader aiming his fusion cannon with a great big smile on his mouth. Megatron has swivel articulation in his shoulders and was sold in a two-pack with [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]].
{{-}}
[[Image:RobotHeroes SupermetalMegatron.JPG|right|120px|thumb|]]
*'''Decepticon Sneak Attack''' (multi-pack, 2007)

:"Supermetal Finish" Megatron is a redeco of the standard ''Robot Heroes'' Megatron, colored a shiny silver instead of white. He was only available in a Wal-Mart exclusive five-pack alongside "Hologram" [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]], [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]], "Supermetal Finish" [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]].
{{-}}

===Revoltech===
*'''Megatron''' (2007)
**''Yamaguchi Series number:'' '''025'''
**''Accessories:'' Alternate head, 3 alternate hands (left & right open palms, right gun-holding hand)

[[Image:Revoltech Megatron.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Action Masters? Eat your Spark out!]]
:A non-transforming but ''highly'' articulated Megatron action figure(ine), ''[[Revoltech]]'' Megatron uses the ''Revoltech'' "revolver joints" (appropriate, if you think about it...) for maximum poseability. Megatron includes a non-removable fusion cannon and a few alternate hands, as well as an alternate head with its mouth open in either a smirk, growl or sneer, [[Dull surprise|depending on how you read it]]. His sculpting is explicitly in the style of [[Pat Lee|Pat "serfdom" Lee]]'s interpretation of Megatron.

:This figure uses specialized gray revolver joints in order to better blend with the surrounding sculpted parts.

:He includes a hand obviously meant for holding a gun... but has no gun to use it with.
{{-}}
*'''Starscream''' (2008)
**''Yamaguchi Series number:'' '''046'''

:The [[Starscream (G1)/toys#Revoltech|''Revoltech'' Starscream]] toy included a Megatron accessory in his Walther P-38 altmode. While the silencer and scope are molded on, the stock can be removed in order to allow him to be wielded. He can be held by any ''Revoltech'' toy with a standardized gun-wielding hand, including Megatron himself.
{{-}}

===Mighty Muggs===
[[Image:MightyMuggs_Megatron.jpg|right|thumb|175px]]
*'''Megatron''' (2009)
**''Accessories:'' Fusion cannon

: This [[super-deformed]], non-transformable Megatron figure uses the standard [[Mighty Muggs]] body template, with swivel joints in his neck and limbs. He comes with a similarly super-deformed version of his fusion cannon that fits into a hole on his right arm.

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===Transformers Wacky Wobblers===
[[Image:WackyWobblers_Megatron.jpg|thumb|right|150px|]]
*'''Megatron''' (2009)

: This Megatron [[wikipedia:Bobblehead|bobblehead]] is part of the popular ''[[Wacky Wobblers]]'' line produced by [[wikipedia:Funko|Funko]]. Aside from the standard-issue big wobbling head, he features a teeny-tiny fusion cannon and arms that swivel at the shoulders. Megatron is affixed to a base with his name on it.
{{-}}

==Notes==
[[Image:Skywarpatron.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Skywarp really DID need close supervision.]]
* It seems that no-one could get Megatron's [[package art]] right in Japan. His standard release used edited box art from the standard Microchange P-38 toy's black deco, recolored to Megatron's US toy color scheme with shiny 'chrome' and red on his legs and arms instead of the Japanese toy's flat gray and blue. The VS-X art replaced the red with blue, but kept the 'chrome'. The art on the 'Goodbye Megatron' set used edited US box art (which in turn was the Microchange P-38 UNCLE art with an added sigil) that replaced the red with blue, yet this toy used red plastic.

* In a possible fit of madness, a triple changer was proposed that would switch between [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (possibly mistaken for Starscream), Megatron, and Skywarp's jet mode.

[[Image:Megalvatron.jpg|right|150px|thumb|This toy IS a time paradox.]]
* In a slightly more sane attempt, another triple changer was proposed which would switch between Megatron, a very awkward [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]], and a Walther P-38 handgun with a futuristic silencer and laser sight.

* According to [[Don Figueroa]], the mysterious clip on the back of 6" Titanium ''War Within'' Megatron was meant to carry the sword Megatron was depicted as using in ''The War Within''. As in the comics, it would presumably have resembled the sword packaged with various versions of G1 Megatron. It may have been omitted due to cost concerns.

* G2 Megatron's lock-and-load shoulder cannon was remolded slightly and reused as the main cannon on the [http://www.yojoe.com/sgtsavage/panther.shtml I.R.O.N Panther Tank] in the very short-lived 1995 [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]] line ''Sgt. Savage & The Screaming Eagles''.

[[Image:Alternity_Megatron_Cannon.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Dude, you'll never fit that in the trunk.]]
* Early concepts for [[#Alternity|Alternity Megatron]] showed him with the trademark fusion cannon rather than his twin swords, as well as a pronounced Decepticon insignia on the chest.
{{-}}

==Footnotes==
<references />

==External links==
* [http://tfu.info/1984/Decepticon/Megatron/megatron.htm Megatron at TFU.info]
* [http://www.ntfa.net/universe/english/index.php?act=view&char=Megatron Megatron's Universe profile at NTFA.net]
*[http://www.transformertoys.co.uk/content.php?/transformers-toys/toy-gallery/1783/Generation+2/Megatron+ATB.html Gallery of ATB Megatron with comparison to BB at Transformers At the Moon]
* [http://www.theunclegun.com/ Unclegun.com - The Walther P-38 as seen in The Man from U.N.C.L.E.]
*[http://www.google.com/patents/about?id=ngAuAAAAEBAJ Megatrons patent]

[[Category:Action Masters]]
[[Category:Attacktix]]
[[Category:Classics characters]]
[[Category:Decepticons]]
[[Category:Decepticon leaders]]
[[Category:Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category:Generation 2 characters]]
[[Category:Go-Bots]]
[[Category:Henkei! Henkei! characters]]
[[Category:Machine Wars characters]]
[[Category:MyClone]]
[[Category:Robot Heroes]]
[[Category:Robot Masters characters]]
[[Category:Titanium Series]]
[[Category:Transmetals]]
[[Category:United]]
[[Category:Universe (2008)]]

Megatron (G1)/toys

2010-11-16T00:52:47Z

MrBlud: /* Diamond Select */

{{suite}}[[Image:Instructionart-megatrong2combat.jpg|thumb|250px]]
Many toys have been made of '''[[Generation 1]] [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'''. So many, they have to get their own page!

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
[[Image:G1Megatron toy.jpg|right|350px|thumb|This photo needs an orange cap or someone might shoot the wiki.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Decepticon Leader, 1984/1985)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''16'''
**''Accessories (Hasbro release)'': Silencer, stock, telescopic sight/fusion cannon, "high-density infrared laser cannon"
**''Accessories (Takara release)'': Sword, "high-density infrared laser cannon", 20 bullets

: Released in the first year of the ''Transformers'' toyline, the original Megatron toy began life as the ''[[Microman]]'' figure "Gun Robo - P38", which transforms into an accurate replica of a Walther P-38 pistol. This ''Microman'' figure was availble in two forms: a standard version in two color schemes (one grey, one black), and the "Gun Robo - P38 U.N.C.L.E.", outfitted with three distinctive acessories—a scope, a silencer and a stock—that replicate the appearance of the unique, specialized Walther pistol seen in the popular 1960s spy television series ''[[Wikipedia:The Man from U.N.C.L.E.|The Man from U.N.C.L.E.]]'' <ref>https://www.cia.gov/about-cia/cia-museum/spy-fi-archives/item08.html</ref> It was the "U.N.C.L.E." version, with all of its special accessories, that was released by Hasbro as Megatron. When the figure is in robot mode, the sight doubles as his signature arm-mounted [[fusion cannon]], but can also be combined with the other attachments to form either a "Particle Beam Cannon" weapons emplacement that Megatron can man, or a "Telescopic Laser Cannon" that connects to the figure as an over-shoulder weapons array. The pieces can also form a turret that a ''Microman'' figure can sit on and operate (that's what the tiny handles on Megatron's fusion cannon are for), but this feature was naturally left out of the ''Transformers'' version's instructions. Megatron also came with a chromed silver "high-density infrared laser cannon" that plugs into his either of his hands.

: The original ''Microman'' release of the toy that would be Megatron featured a spring-loaded firing mechanism that allowed the toy to shoot ([[for safety reasons|dangerously small]]) plastic bullets one at a time from its barrel. A similar launching mechanism was also built into the stock piece, which could launch the bullets when the accessories were configured into their weapons emplacement mode. As with all missile-firing gimmicks, this feature was removed from the Hasbro release of the toy, though the ports into which the bullets were inserted are still present.

: Megatron has had several variations, reissues and [[redeco]]s released down through the years; this article strives to list each distinct edition of the toy under its own respective series. The earliest variation of the toy came in 1985, when (like all toys originally available in 1984) Megatron was given a factory-applied [[rubsign]]. Then, the following year, when he was no longer a part of the toy assortment sold at retail, Megatron was made available as a mail-away item in the "[[Digital Doom on the Highway to Destruction]]" flier packed in with boxed ''Transformers'' toys. He cost $21.50 and five [[robot points]].

: Perhaps the most significant variant of Megatron released in these early years was the version of the figure released by [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] in Japan. Instead of using the ''Microman'' "U.N.C.L.E." figure as Hasbro had, Takara released the ''standard'' version of the Gun Robo P-38 ''Microman'' figure, in its grey color scheme, which featured flat grey plastic on the chest and arms (where Hasbro's toy was chromed), and blue plastic on the inner arms and legs (where Hasbro's was red). Most notably, like that standard ''Microman'' figure, Takara's Megatron did not come with the stock, silencer and scope accessories (lacking even the attachment point for his cannon on his right arm), but instead came with a silver-chromed sword and retained his original bullet-firing mechanism. Takara's [[package art]] for the figure was an entirely different illustration from the Hasbro version, showing this toy's accessories, but it still erroneously showed the figure with red plastic on its limbs. This coloration was later [[Repurposing|repurposed]] by [[e-Hobby]] for a new character named [[Megaplex]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/1984/Decepticon/Megatron/megatron.htm More information on Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|VSX}}
[[Image:Convoy_megatron_vsx.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''Convoy VS Megatron''' (Multi-pack, 1985)
**''Japanese ID number'': '''VSX'''
**''Accessories'': Sword, "high-density infrared laser cannon", 20 bullets

: In Japan, Megatron was also made available in a special two-pack with [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Optimus Prime]]. Both toys were identical to their individual releases. In Megatron's case, that means unchromed gray plastic, blue instead of red, and a functional firing mechanism and sword, instead of the scope, silencer and stock. This box also used an altered version of the individual release's box-art, turning his head sideways to face Prime, as opposed to the original's camera-facing head position.

{{-}}{{anchor|GoodBye}}
[[Image:G1toy_goodbye_megatron.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''Good Bye Megatron''' (Multi-pack, 1986)
**''Accessories'': Sword, "high-density infrared laser cannon", 20 bullets, targeting sight/fusion cannon

: Megatron was released again as part of a special "Good Bye" set to commemorate his passing ([[Galvatron (G1)|of sorts]]) in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'', packaged with [[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]] (who also was now no more). Although it still lacked the chrome seen on the Hasbro version of the toy, this edition of the figure replaced the blue plastic seen on previous Takara releases with Hasbro's show-accurate red, and included the fusion cannon accessory for the first time with a Takara release, complete with the mounting point now added to Megatron's right arm. Though still lacking the silencer and stock, the toy retained its Japanese-exclusive sword accessory and its bullet-firing mechanism, with one modification: The bullets, formerly blue, were now red.

: Despite the change to the toy's colors, the box art on this set, the same art used for the [[Hasbro]] releases, was recolored to match the blue of the ''previous'' releases. Whoops.

{{-}}
*'''Galvatron''' (Decepticon [[City Commander]], 1986)

{{main|Galvatron (G1)/toys}}

{{-}}{{anchor|ActionMaster}}
*'''Neutro-Fusion Tank with Megatron''' (Action Master, 1990)
**''Accessories'': Neutro-Fusion Tank, 4 missiles, "twin laser cannon"
[[Image:Neutro-fusiontanktoy1.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Uh-oh! Visual interest!]]
: Megatron returned as an ''[[Action Master]]'' in 1990, and as with most ''Action Master'' figures, he could not transform. His sculpt was based heavily upon the character's animation model design. Megatron is compatible with all other Action Master accessories and vehicles.

: He came packaged with the [[Neutro-Fusion Tank]], a large tank vehicle whose hull could transform into a base/gun emplacement, with the turret forming a flight pod. Four "corrosive smoke shell" accessories mounted on both sides of the tank. There are seats for two Action Master figures on the front on either side of the barrel, another seat inside the turret, and four pegs on the back of the tank for standing additional Action Master figures.

:The tank's turret can detach and become a "jet throne," which features flip-out wings, and the body of the tank transforms into a missile-launcher battle station. The battle station has two seats on either side behind the missile launchers (non-firing) and a stowing bay in the center for an additional figure.

:In a fairly notable omission, ''Action Master'' Megatron did not come with the character's iconic fusion cannon accessory. In 1992, however, a Japanese fan sculpted his own cannon accessory, which could plug into the figure's arm using the shoulder screw-hole (seen in the image at right). In a surprising move, Takara gave this cannon their approval and allowed it to be officially sold with their copyright stamp at a Japanese convention {{fact|which one?}} for only one day, at the price of 2000 yen.

::*''[http://tfu.info/1990/Decepticon/Megatron/megatron.htm More information on Action Master Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|2001reissue}}
[[Image:G1toy_2000_megatron_reissue.jpg|thumb|300px]]
*'''Megatron''' (reissue, 2001)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''16-S'''
**''Accessories'': Silencer, stock, telescopic sight/fusion cannon, "high-density infrared laser cannon", sword, 20 bullets

:This reissue of the original Megatron figure combines the best aspects of the Hasbro and Takara versions into the most "complete" version of Megatron available at that point. The set features the chromed chest and arms and red plastic of the Hasbro release, and includes the silencer, stock and sight/cannon, while also coming with Takara's sword and functional bullet-firing mechanism.

:This reissue was redecoed to make the simultaneously available exclusive "Megatron Black Version" (see below).

{{-}}{{anchor|BlackG1}}
[[Image:G1toy_black_megatron.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''Megatron Black Version''' (2001)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''16-S'''
**''Accessories'': Silencer, stock, telescopic sight/fusion cannon, "high-density infrared laser cannon", sword, 20 bullets

: Where the original Takara Megatron toy made use of one of the two color schemes of the original ''Microman'' Gun Robo P38 toy, this redeco of the 2000 reissue Megatron is an homage to the ''second'', black color scheme for the ''Microman'' toy. Available exclusively through e-Hobby and pre-orders at [[BotCon Japan 2000]], "Megatron Black Version" features dark gunmetal chrome, black plastic instead of grey, and distinctive brown gun handle-grips, fists and "inner helmet". The chrome replaces the flat black plastic of the original ''Microman'' toy, which also had blue plastic on its legs and arms that is here supplanted by Megatron's now-traditional red. The toy was limited to 1000 pieces.

: E-Hobby later reissued Megatron Black Version in February, 2009. This release includes a [[Decepticon Leader Megatron Black Ver.|mini-comic]] explaining the story behind the redeco.

::*''[http://tfu.info/2000/Destron/BlackMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Megatron Black Version at TFU.info]''

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===Generation 2===
[[Image:G2Megatron toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|G2 Megatron is always ready for tank combat in one of Earth's many green and purple jungles.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Decepticon, 1992)
**''Accessories'': Rifle, 6 missiles, sight

: Owing to the inability of Hasbro to re-release the original Megatron because that toy was a pistol, ''[[Generation 2 (toyline)|Generation 2]]'' Megatron was released in 1992 as a large green M1A1 Abrams main battle tank. His main gimmick was a 'lock and load' cannon that can load most of his projectile ammunition, and then fire them one at a time. This was accompanied by electronic sounds (including engine, laser and cannon sound effects) and a voice chip.

: In robot mode, Megatron is by the standards of the time, a very large robot, towering over all ''Generation 2'' incarnations of Optimus Prime. His legs were immobile, but he had upper shoulder rotation and elbow joints. His left arm, when raised, activates a laser sound. Pressing down on his head activates his battlecry '''"Megatron Attack!"'''. His main cannon still functions in this mode.

: This mold was slightly redecoed (with new stickers) as [[Megastorm]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/1993/Decepticon/Megatron/megatron.htm More information on Generation 2 Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|Hero}}
[[Image:G2 CombatHero Megatron toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|By this point, the purple had almost completely taken over his body.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Hero, 1995)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''TRF-2'''
**''Accessories'': Rifle, 2 air-launch missiles

:Megatron was released again the following year as "Hero" Megatron: a smaller, but similarly styled tank based off the M1 Abrams. This Megatron was purple and came with a bellows that fired an air-propelled missile. Both missiles could be kept on Megatron thanks to clips on his turret, which become his robot mode arms... conveniently kinda simulating the "classic" Megatron arm cannon to boot.

: Hero Megatron was designed with articulation in mind, so he was loaded with multiple swivel and universal joints, giving him far greater movement compared to his original ''Generation 2'' toy.

: This toy was released in Europe, albeit with a "MEGATRON RULES"-free blank chest sticker, as [[Archforce]]. It was also [[Redeco|redecoed]] into ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Bludgeon (RID)|Bludgeon]] in 2003 (which has since been [[Repurposing|repurposed]] to become "[[Shattered Glass (toyline)]]" [[Bludgeon (SG)|Bludgeon]]).

::*''[http://tfu.info/1994/Decepticon/Megatron/megatron.htm More information on Hero Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{-}}{{anchor|Go-Bot}}
[[Image:Megatron-G2GoBot.jpg|right|300px|thumb|He'd be a better shot if he could only see over his hood-chest.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Go-Bot, 1995)
**''Accessories'': Rifle

: Part of the second assortment of [[Go-Bot (G2)|Go-Bots]], this version of Megatron is a mild [[redeco]] of the Autobot [[Blowout]], transforming into a 1:64-scale Porsche 959 sports car with through-axle construction. This not only makes him roll exceptionally fast in car mode, but also makes him largely compatible with playsets from the "Hot Wheels" and "Matchbox" toy-car lines. Megatron and Blowout share the same blue and black inner robot colors, but Megatron uses opaque silver plastic with a shiny metallic silver paint overcoat, as opposed to Blowout's smoky-clear plastic. (All of the toys from the first wave that had transparent plastics were released in this wave with opaques instead; Blowout and [[Firecracker]] became new versions of Megatron and [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Optimus Prime]] respectively, while [[Gearhead]] and [[Motormouth]] stayed themselves.)

: In Japan, his hood was tampographed with a stylized "T" with the ''Transformers'' logo set within the top bar, the same deco that appears on Go-Bots [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] and the Japanese release of Go-Bots Optimus Prime.

:This mold was also used to make Go-Bots [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] and ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Hot Shot (RID)|Hot Shot]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/1995/Decepticon/Megatron/megatron.htm More information on Go-Bot Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|CombatHero}}
[[Image:CombatHeroMegatron.jpg|right|200px|thumb|I AM POWERED BY UNOBTAINIUM!]]
*'''Megatron''' (Combat Hero, unreleased)
**''Accessories'': rifle, 2 air-launch missiles

: This kinda-sorta "arctic"-camo version of the [[#Hero|Hero Megatron]] toy was solicited to numerous retailers, and is one of a great many ''Generation 2'' toys to never see the light of day. Precious few samples of this toy exist.

: At [[BotCon 1996]], a donated Combat Hero Megatron was one of the items in the charity auction, along with several other canceled ''Generation 2'' toys.

{{canceledtoy}}
{{-}}{{anchor|ATB}}
[[Image:G2toy_ATB_megs_and_screamer.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Cancelled?! This is all YOUR fault, Starscream!]]
*'''Megatron''' (Decepticon, unreleased)
**''Accessories'': 12 missiles, 2 missiles launchers

: A planned-but-canceled redeco of ''Generation 2'' [[Dreadwing (G2)|Dreadwing]], Megatron would have transformed into a "flying wing" Advanced Tactical Bomber (when combined with his smaller "partner" [[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]]) with an under-slung six-missile gatling cannon. Each wing can store three mose missiles, which can "carpet-bomb" targets below by pressing the pressure-launch buttons above each. He can also transform into a treaded "tank" mode, activated by removing Starscream from the jet mode and activating a spring-loaded [[Autotransformation|autotransform]] mechanism in his wings.

: This toy's deco was used to make ''[[Beast Wars II (toyline)|Beast Wars II]]''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s [[BB]] and [[Starscream (BWII)|Starscream]] out of the same mold-set. This mold was also used to make ''Robots in Disguise'' [[Dreadwind (RID)|Dreadwind]] and ''[[Robot Masters (franchise)|Robot Masters]]'' [[Gigant Bomb]].

: According to the Toy Fair 1995 Transformers presentation, the toy's missiles were intended to glow in the dark. This feature was not carried over with the Beast Wars II BB/Starscream set.

{{canceledtoy}}
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===Beast Wars===
As stated below, early on the life of the [[Beast Wars (toyline)|''Beast Wars'' toyline]], before the debut of the ''[[Beast Wars (cartoon)|Beast Wars]]'' cartoon (which definitively established ''Beast Wars'' [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]] as a separate, distinct character), the accompanying packaging profiles and mini-comic for the very first ''Beast Wars'' Megatron figure indicated that he was the same Megatron from Generation 1/2.

[[Image:BWtoy-MegatronBasic.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Go Gators!]]
* '''Optimus Primal VS Megatron''' (Basic 2-pack, 1996)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''VS-6'''
**''Accessories:'' Gun/tail

: The initial version of ''[[Beast Wars (toyline)|Beast Wars]]'' Megatron transformed into a green alligator. The toy is a [[retool]] of [[Iguanus (BW)|Iguanus]] with new alligator and robot heads, and no frill. The screw hole for the frill bracket remains. Both toys were released at roughly the same time.

:Whether this toy can be considered the ''Beast Wars'' [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]] character as seen in the primary fiction is a matter of debate. Released before the cartoon series began, which established Megatron as a separate entity from Generation 1 Megatron, the accompanying profiles and mini-comic seem to assume that the Beast Wars are a progression of the same characters from the Autobot/Decepticon war. Whether the animated series's [[retcon]] affected this set of toys is probably a matter of personal preference. It can be interpreted as representing one of the more interesting [[micro-continuity|micro-continuities]].

:More recently, the ''[[Beast Wars Sourcebook]]'' has asserted that, in [[Beast Wars timeline (IDW)|IDW's version of ''Beast Wars'' continuity]], Megatron's alligator body was suggested by the ''Darksyde'''s computer as a potential alternate mode, but he rejected it in favor of the more powerful T-Rex, without ever actually reformatting into it. Thus, this [[micro-continuity]] posits alligator-mode Megatron as an essentially theoretical alternate form that never actually came to be.

:This mold was additionally used to make the purple-recolored Megaligator (who may or may not be a separate character to either Megatron or Megatron Beast Wars Megatron). It was also proposed for [[Albitron]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/1996/Predacon/MegatronGator/megatron.htm More information on Beast Wars Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|BWultra}}
[[Image:Bwmegatron toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Don't call him Barney.]]
* '''Megatron''' (Ultra, 1996)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''D-1'''
**''Accessories:'' Two missiles, water squirter

: This Megatron transformed into a purple organic ''Tyrannosaurus rex''. He has limited articulation in beast mode, but his dinosaur head can [[Water-squirting gimmick|shoot water]]. In robot mode, he has no hands, as his right arm ends with his dinosaur head, and his tail, folded into a pincer, forms his left arm. The outer shells of his dinosaur thighs conceal spring-loaded missile launchers that fire anchor-shaped projectiles.

: His robot head feature two bat-like wing adornments that fold to become a [[mutant head]].

:Like his previous Beast Wars toy, this toy was released before the animated series premiered, and represented G1 Megatron having upgraded his Alligator body into a more powerful form.

: This mold was also used to make the ''[[Beast Machines (toyline)|Beast Machines]]'' [[Dinobot (BM)|Dinobot]] [[T-Wrecks]].

{{-}}{{anchor|GatorJ}}
* '''Megaligator''' (Basic, 1997)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''D-6'''
**''Accessories:'' Gun/tail

: In Japan, the gator Megatron toy was also sold as an individual toy, as well as in a VS pack with Optimus. The individual release is identical to the two-pack version, which is in turn identical to the Hasbro version.

{{-}}{{anchor|CDgator}}
*'''Convobat vs Megaligator''' (Basic 2-pack, 1997)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''S-1'''
**''Accessories:'' Gun/tail

:This figure is a purple [[redeco]] of Megatron's alligator form, and was sold with a red and blue redeco of Bat Primal. This may or may not be intended to be the same character as Megatron or Generation 1 Megatron.

===Machine Wars===
[[Image:MWMegatron toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|And that's why Thundercracker turned green.]]
* '''Megatron''' (Basic, 1997)
**''Accessories'': 2-part rifle

: Sharing a mold with his concurrently-released ally [[Megaplex]] (which had been a canceled mold developed for ''Generation 2''), ''[[Machine Wars]]'' Megatron transforms from a [[Popular Earth vehicle alternate modes|Lockheed-Martin F-22 Raptor fighter jet]] to robot mode with a spring-loaded one-step transformation. The two halves of his rifle store in the back of his robot-mode legs.

: Oddly, the ''Machine Wars'' stock photos (and even the boxart) portray Megatron as the gray F-22 jet and Megaplex as the blue one, the ''opposite'' of the actual toys. This means that either the package designers made the mistake, or the toys were packaged on the wrong cards. The latter is more likely, since gray is more associated with Megatron than blue. Like most other toys in the line, the boxart was recycled from an earlier figure, in this case from the [[Predator (subgroup)|Predator]] [[Falcon (G1)|Falcon]].

: This mold was also used to make ''[[Beast Wars II (toyline)|Beast Wars II]]'' [[Thrust (BWII)|Thrust]], ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Wind Sheer (RID)|Wind Sheer]], and ''[[Robot Masters (franchise)|Robot Masters]]'' [[Air Hunter]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/1997/Decepticon/Megatron/megatron.htm More information on Machine Wars Megatron at TFU.info]''
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===Choro-Q Robo===
[[Image:Choroq_megatron.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]

* '''Megatron TV Version''' (2001)
**''Japanese ID Number:'' '''Q/03'''

:''[[Choro-Q|Choro-Q Robo]]'' Megatron is a small, cutesified transforming figure of the Decepticon leader. He is the only ''Choro-Q Robo'' Transformers figure that does not come with a weapon accessory, but after all, he does turn ''into'' a gun. In a bizarre and hilarious touch, Megatron has wheels on his base and barrel, so that he can share the common feature of the ''Choro-Q Robo'' figures: a pull-back motor!

* '''Megatron Black Version''' (2001)
**''Japanese ID Number:'' '''Q/04'''

:This version of ''Choro-Q Robo'' Megatron is a redeco of the first, decked out in a metallic color scheme based on the "Black Version" of the reissue of the Generation 1 figure released earlier that year.
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===Transformers Collection===
{{anchor|TFCMegatron}}
[[Image:G1toy_tfc_megatron.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''Megatron''' (2003)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''6'''
**''Accessories'': Silencer, stock, telescopic sight/fusion cannon, "high-density infrared laser cannon", sword, 20 bullets

:The original Generation 1 Megatron figure was again reissued in 2003 as part of Takara's ''[[Transformers Collection]]'' series. This release was identical to the previous 2000 reissue, in that it featured the colors of the Hasbro release of the toy, and all the accessories of both the Hasbro and Takara versions, but this time, it also included a new energon mace weapon, as used by the Decepticon leader in the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 2]]". Much like the [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|"New Year Special"]] version of Optimus Prime released the previous year, Megatron also came with a sheet of Decepticon [[insignia]] stickers of different sizes, and a Decepticon mouse pad.

::*''[http://tfu.info/1984/Decepticon/Megatron/megatron.htm More information on Transformers Collection Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|TFCStarscream}}
[[Image:TFC09ScreamerHoldingMegs.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Sometimes I just... want to be held.]]
* '''Starscream''' (Transformers Collection, 2002)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''9'''
: A diminutive version of Megatron in his Walther P-38 mode was included as a new accessory with the ''Transformers Collection'' release of Starscream. Needless to say, he doesn't transform, but can be held by Starscream in both modes. Megatron's handle disconnects to reveal a peg, which can then be inserted into either of Starscream's fists, which were specifically resculpted for this purpose. Each fist also features a tab on its underside, into which Megatron's handle can be inserted, completing the effect. Megatron can also attach to Starscream's jet mode; the right-hand side of Megatron's handle features a square peg which is designed to fit snugly in gaps in Stasrcream's pectorals, as in the Generation 1 episode, "[[S.O.S. Dinobots]]". Unfortunately, this peg has, for no fathomable reason, been cast in the same sky blue color as Screamer's hands, unnecessarily making it ''as obtrusive as humanly possible''.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2003/Destron/AnimeStarscream/starscream.htm More information on Transformers Collection Starscream at TFU.info]''
{{--}}

===Smallest Transforming Transformers===
[[Image:STFMegatron toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Not 20th Anniversary Optimus Prime's gun.]]
*'''Megatron''' (2004)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''GTF 07'''
**''Accessories:'' Fusion cannon/scope

: ''[[Smallest Transforming Transformers]]'' Megatron was released in the second wave of the diminutive Takara toyline, including only his fusion cannon. Easily the most complex of the ''Smallest Transforming'' figures, Megatron is a just-barely-simplified version of his original Generation 1 toy, possessing the same transformation scheme and retaining most of his articulation.

:Just as ''Smallest Transforming'' Optimus Prime's trailer was released as a separate figure in the line, so too were a set of silencer and stock attachments originally intended to be released for Megatron in the line's third wave. Unfortunately, this wave, and most of the other original figures it was set to contain, was cancelled, and so Megatron was left under-armed.

::*''[http://tfu.info/2004/Destron/SmallestMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Smallest Transforming Megatron at TFU.info]''

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[[Image:Wst vsx megatron.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
* '''Convoy vs Megatron''' (multipack, 2004)
** ''Japanese ID Number:'' '''VSX'''
** ''Accessories:'' Fusion cannon/scope

:Available exclusively through [[Dengeki Hobby]] magazine, this ''Smallest Transforming Transformers'' two-pack contains both Optimus Prime and Megatron, in homage to the original 1984 "VSX" giftset containing the original versions of the two leaders. While Optimus is unaltered from his original release, Megatron takes the homage a little further, removing the swirled pattern from the original figure's chest and replacing the red plastic with blue to emulate the original Takara version of the full-size Generation 1 figure.
{{--}}

===Robot Masters===
[[Image:RMReverseConvoy toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|My Convoy counterpart is nearby. Real nearby.]]
*'''Reverse Convoy''' (Deluxe, 2004)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''RM-24'''
**''Accessories'': "Reverse Blaster", missile

: A [[retool]] of the ''[[Generation 2 (toyline)|Generation 2]]'' "Hero Megatron" toy, Rebirth Megatron transforms into a heavily modified blue and tan [[Popular Earth vehicle alternate modes|M1 Abrams tank]]. In addition to a new "[[Reverse Convoy]]" head that flips out of the same compartment as the head on the original version of the mold, the toy features a brand new "Mega Blaster" cannon assembly that houses most of the toy's new features. The Mega Blaster fires a spring-loaded blue missile, and the rear of the cannon can be removed and transformed into the hand-held "Reverse Blaster" weapon, featuring twin barrels and a rack of six (non-removable) missiles. Once the Reverse Blaster is removed, the toy's "Rebirth Megatron" head can be rotated out from the back of the cannon to take the place of Reverse Convoy's head between the figure's shoulders.

: The original version of this mold was use to make [[Archforce]] and ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Bludgeon (RID)|Bludgeon]] (which has been [[Repurposing|repurposed]] to also be "[[Shattered Glass (toyline)|Shattered Glass]]" [[Bludgeon (SG)|Bludgeon]]). The toy still retains the opening panels on its forearms, despite no longer featuring the large missiles they are designed to store.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2005/Destron/ReverseConvoy/reverseconvoy.htm More information on Reverse Convoy at TFU.info]''

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===20th Anniversary/Masterpiece===

[[Image:GunmodeMegsMasterpieceConvoy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Bang bang! He shot me down! Bang bang! I hit the ground...]]
* '''Optimus Prime''' (2003/2004)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''MP-1'''

: ''20th Anniversary'' Optimus Prime included an accessory of Megatron in his classic Walther P-38 altmode. Although non-transforming, it is quite detailed and includes the individually removable silencer / barrel extension, scope, and (hinged) stock. Although notionally [[Scale|scaled]] to be wielded by Masterpiece Prime, the handle is marginally too short and thus has a sliding joint diagonally across the butt of the gun, thus slightly lengthening and narrowing the grip so that Prime can actually hold it. The reason for this odd design concept is unknown.
: Needless to say, the later-released Masterpiece [[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]] (and [[Skywarp (G1)|his]] [[Thundercracker (G1)|redecoes]]) can also hold this version of Megatron, and far more appropriately too! The three [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]] each include a small round clip that plugs in under their nosecones, allowing them to wield Megatron while in jet mode, as Starscream did in "S.O.S. Dinobots".
: The stock extension connecting clamp is prone to breakage, much to the chagrin of owners who keep theirs sealed and untouched.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2004/Autobot/20thPrime/optimusprime.htm More information on 20th Anniversary Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
* '''Masterpiece Ultra Magnus''' (2004)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''MP-2'''

:A redeco of the non-transforming Megatron gun accessory was included with ''Masterpiece'' [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/toys|Ultra Magnus]], itself a redeco of ''Masterpiece'' Prime/Convoy. For this release, Megatron was decked out in his secondary ''Microchange'' color scheme, which had previously been used on the eHobby exclusive "Megatron Black Version".

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2005/Cybertron/UltraMagnus/ultramagnus.htm More information on Masterpiece Ultra Magnus at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|MasterpieceMegs}}
[[Image:MP05_megatron.jpg|right|400px|thumb|You will pay dearly for this. Literally and metaphorically...]]
*'''Megatron''' (2007)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''MP-5'''
**''Accessories:'' Fusion cannon, energon mace, energy dagger, laser pistol, [[Kremzeek]] figure

: Scaled to the same height as ''20th Anniversary'' Optimus Prime, ''Masterpiece'' Megatron is an incredibly complex figure—potentially one of the most complicated ''Transformers'' toys to date—designed to depict a fairly [[Show-accuracy|show-accurate]] Megatron capable of transforming into a realistic (if oversized) Walther P-38. In achieving this seemingly impossible goal, Megatron winds up with the least articulation of the ''Masterpiece'' line, as well as a notably low percentage of die-cast metal.

: Like Prime before him, Megatron comes with several of his iconic accessories from the Generation 1 cartoon: his energon mace from "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 2]]", the energy dagger and laser pistol used in his duel against Prime in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'', and a tiny translucent [[Kremzeek]] figure. His fusion cannon also contains a powerful red LED activated when the round detailing on the side of his cannon is pressed.

: Due to concern surrounding updated realistic toy gun laws, some online importers modified ''Masterpiece'' Megatron in order to safely get the toy through United States customs. This customarily involved inserting plugs into the tip of the toy's barrel, from rounded red ones affixed by adhesive to [[:Image:HLJplug.jpg|flat-tipped yellow ones]] that could be easily removed. Ultimately, there were no reports of problems with the toy making its way into America, but Australia was another matter. Considered a replica gun and therefore a "restricted import" by Australian Customs, both mass shipments and individual packages of the toy were seized, requiring buyers in some areas to obtain a special permit to own him.

: Given the relatively thin clips throughout the toy to hold it tightly together in gun mode, Megatron's plastic components are particularly prone to breakage, especially on the clips on the upper black grip plates and some of the silver sections near the trigger. Many owners of this figure have also reported rust and tarnish problems on what few metal pieces he has; if your Megatron is a sufferer, check out [http://seibertron.com/energonpub/viewtopic.php?t=16106 this guide] for solutions.

::*''[http://tfu.info/2007/Destron/MPMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Masterpiece Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===Titanium Series===
[[Image:TitaniumGIJoeHeroesMegatron toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|THE BOX OF DOOM.]]
*'''Megatron''' (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2006)
**''Accessories'': Stand with nameplate

:Part of the very first wave of six-inch ''[[Titanium Series]]'' toys, Megatron was inspired by [[Dreamwave Productions]]' first ''[[G.I. Joe (franchise)|G.I. Joe]]'' crossover, set in an alternate-reality World War II. Since that Megatron's gun form was nonviable as a toy, a tank alternate mode (of undetermined, probably-entirely-made-up model) was designed. The backstory of the Megatron from the crossover, including references to Cobra, was retained on the package, make it the first U.S. figure ever produced as part of a ''G.I. Joe / [[Transformers brand|Transformers]]'' crossover.

:Although the figure looks somewhat impressive, it notably has the tendency to fall apart during transformation and was relatively difficult to pose in robot mode without it falling over.

::*''[http://tfu.info/2006/Decepticon/TitMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Titanium Megatron at TFU.info]]'

{{-}}{{anchor|TiWarWithin}}
[[Image:Megatrontitaniumtww.jpg|right|300px|thumb|THE... NAP OF DOOM?]]
*'''War Within Megatron''' (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2007)
**''Accessories'': Arm cannon, shield, stand with nameplate

:A new ''Titanium Series'' Megatron based on his [[The War Within|''War Within'']] design was initially shown at [[BotCon 2006]], and was released in spring of 2007. Like the original comic book design, his robot mode has a removable arm cannon and shield, but unlike the original comic book design, his robot mode transforms into his alternate mode at a different angle.

:As opposed to the earlier toy, this one has a more posable robot mode, but somewhat unimpressive alternate mode, being little more than lying the toy on its back and attaching the gun/shield. There is a small clip on the back of the toy which designer [[Don Figueroa]] said was to hold his sword, seen in the comic book, but that accessory was ultimately not produced.

::*''[http://tfu.info/2007/Decepticon/TitTWWMegatron/megatron.htm More information on War Within Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{-}}{{anchor|WarWithin2pack}}
[[Image:Titanium_war_within_2pack.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''War Within Optimus Prime / War Within Megatron''' (2-pack, 2007)
**''Accessories'': Arm cannon, shield

:This Toys "R" Us [[exclusive]] two-pack features [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|Optimus Prime]] and Megatron as they appeared in the ''War Within'' comic series. Though the Megatron in this set is identical to its individual release, Optimus loses the paint wash, making him much cleaner-looking.

: The set also came with [[The War Within issue 5|the fifth issue of the ''War Within'' comic book]], featuring a variant cover exclusive to this release.
{{--}}
===Classics (2006)===
[[Image:Megatronclassicstoy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Paint me black and give me to a kid, ASAP.]]
*'''Megatron''' (Voyager, 2006)

:''Classics'' Megatron is a "fusion blaster" based loosely on the original Megatron toy and appears to transform into a [[:Image:N-strike maverick.jpg|Nerf N-Strike Maverick blaster]] to comply with modern US toy gun regulations (an orange cap on a Walther P-38 won't cover it). Its scope/arm cannon houses a working crosshairs and its trigger includes clicking action. In order to pass modern safety regulations (both the government's and Hasbro's), its blaster mode includes lots of purple and green, plus bright orange on both the tip of the "barrel" and the scope.

:Although some [[stock photography|official Hasbro photographs]], including those appearing on the toy's [[packaging]], show the gun mode's trigger and other small parts as being orange, those parts were gray in later stock photography and the final release.

:In these above-mentioned early promotional photographs, Megatron also had noticeably different "eyebrow" [[paint operation]]s that matched those of the original Megatron toy. These were two small black triangles on a gray plastic forehead. The final release has the placement of the black reversed, with two small gray triangles and a black forehead, sometimes referred to as Megatron's "unibrow" by fans.

:It has been recently discovered that the orange parts on Megatron, particularly the more exposed ones, seem to have their colors fade out over time. The exact cause of this change has not yet been discovered but care should be taken to avoid this from happening.

:In a glaring example of poor [[quality control]], the back of the packaging reads "working scope becomes anti-proton pulse ''[[canon]]''!"

:''Classics'' Megatron was redecoed in Japan as part of the ''[[Henkei! Henkei! (toyline)|Henkei! Henkei!]] Transformers'' line by [[TakaraTomy]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/2006/Decepticon/ClassicsMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Classics Voyager Megatron at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|Ultimate.2BBattle}}

[[Image:MegatronUltimateBattle.jpg|right|300px|thumb|The only Transformer capable of Moonwalking, seriously.]]
*'''Optimus Prime vs Megatron: The Ultimate Battle''' (Deluxe versus set, 2006)
**''Accessories'': Rifle

: The Megatron included in this two-pack is a tank inspired by the first Megatron toy from ''Generation 2''. Instead of a right hand, its arm ends in a blade with "spinning dervish action." He is packaged with Optimus Prime and "[[Optimus Prime vs Megatron: The Ultimate Battle|The Ultimate Battle]]" DVD. Later releases of this toy in Mexico and some European countries had him individually packed but otherwise unchanged from the original release.

:Many (all?) units of this figure have Megatron's splayed feet [[Misassembly|swapped and assembled backwards]], a fact which is not immediately apparent as the "heel" half of his feet are actually larger than the "toe" half (this is the opposite of most splay-footed transformers), and the situation is not helped by the promotional (exhibit A, to your right) and box-art photography displaying an identically misassembled figure. However, examination of the instructions and any attempt to transform Megatron into tank mode immediately demonstrate the mistake, which is easily corrected by unscrewing the halves of his lower legs, reversing the foot pieces, and attaching each to the opposite leg.

:In 2008, the Optimus Prime vs Megatron set, sans DVD, has been reissued to outlets like Kay Bee in new [[Universe (2008 franchise)|Universe]] packaging. The feet are still misassembled. The same set has also been seen at Dollar General and Big Lots! stores since 2007.

::*''[http://tfu.info/2006/Decepticon/ClassicsDVDMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Classics Deluxe Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===Sports Label===
*'''Megatron Nike Free 7.0''' (2007)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''02'''
[[Image:Nikeatron.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Some idiots thought I was going to be life-sized! Fools! Foooools!!!]]

:Seeking to exploit the tremendous energy potential of sweatshops, Megatron has taken on this new altmode to cement his alliance with [[wikipedia:Nike,_Inc.|Nike Inc.]], since [[Cobra]] evidently wasn't enough of an evil empire for him...

:''[[Sport Label]]'', a rather unusual product line comprising a mere three entries, entirely utilizes the same body mold with different heads, making this the first time Optimus and Megatron have had identical bodies.

:Something of a [[shellformer]], Nikeatron is colored primarily black and gray in his altmode of a realistic-looking, scaled-down Nike sneaker, complete with (gratuitously long) real fabric shoelaces. In robot mode, he incorporates a little additional red in predictable areas and has a somewhat uniquely-shaped yet instantly recognizable G1-inspired head, with rather snooty (or camp, take your pick) pursed lips. An undocumented aspect of his transformation is that his gun, which splits in two halves and stores inside his [[kibble]] when transforming (much like [[Rattrap]]'s) has two handle pegs on opposite sides, so that the gun can be held either at its far end or halfway along its length. Additionally, the Megatron figure has an extra peg hole in his right forearm (well, technically so does Prime), allowing you to insert the mid-length plug of his black-colored weapon at this point, positioning the weapon in such a way as to resemble (''vaguely'') his traditional [[fusion cannon]], rather than simply holding it in his hand.

:Somewhat perversely, Sneakertron's feet are sculpted in the likeness of his own sneaker altmode, so in effect, ''he is wearing himself!'' Kinky...

::*''[http://tfu.info/2007/Destron/SLMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Sports Label Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===Encore===

*'''Megatron''' (2007)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''02'''
**''Accessories'': Silencer, stock, telescopic sight/fusion cannon, "high-density infrared laser cannon", sword, 20 bullets

:The original Generation 1 Megatron figure was reissued yet again in 2007 as part of TakaraTomy's new line of "[[Encore|Transformers Encore]]" reissues. Like previous reissues, this Megatron features the Hasbro colors and the accessories from both Hasbro and Takara editions of the figure, but this time, he features a tan finish to his chrome rather than the normal colorless-silver finish.
{{-}}

===Henkei! Henkei!===
[[Image:Henkei Megatron Toy.jpg|right|250px|thumb|"Megatron's palette must be swapped... no matter the cost."]]
*'''Megatron''' (Voyager, 2008)
**''Japanese ID Number:'' '''D-01'''

:''[[Henkei! Henkei! (toyline)|Henkei! Henkei!]] Transformers'' Megatron is a redeco of the ''Classics'' version. He features a significantly altered colour scheme, generally to make the toy more closely resemble his appearance in the ''Generation 1'' cartoon and the original toyline. His chest plate is chromed silver, as well as the top of his knee guards.

::*''[http://tfu.info/2006/Decepticon/ClassicsMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Henkei Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===Universe (2008)===
*'''Megatron''' (Legends of Cybertron, 2008)

[[Image:Megatronlegend2008.jpg|right|200px|thumb|His shoulders hurt too, buddy!]]
:A [[Legends Class]] version of Megatron inspired by his ''Generation 2'' tank design, although featuring a more realistic shade of green.
:Sadly, because of his transformation, when transformed into tank mode his turret doesn't turn around.

::*''[http://tfu.info/2008/Decepticon/LegendsMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Universe Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
[[Image:Universe2008-toy SEMegatron.JPG|right|250px|thumb|]]
*'''Megatron''' (Deluxe Class: Special Edition, 2008)

:A redeco of the "Ultimate Battle" Megatron from ''Classics'', this time featuring a G1-inspired deco of grays, red and black. This new deco takes advantage of the mould break-up to add an additional plastic colour (5, rather than the original's 4). In actuality the dark grey parts on the original version of the mould are now divided between light grey, red and black plastic on the "Special Edition" version. This is really obvious if one compares their guns. "Ultimate Battle" Megatron's is solid grey, while "Special Edition" Megatron's sports a red stock.

:The Special Edition toy was designed for Australasian markets and features a bookbox style packaging with black-and-white boxart. The box better be good since he supports an inflated price tag as well (usually about 150% the standard Deluxe price for Deluxe figures outside the U.S., but it wasn't uncommon for him to be sold solo for as much as the "Special Edition" double-pack). He was not available at retail in North America, but was for sale on Hasbrotoyshop.com, like the other Special Edition toys.

:His feet are correctly assembled this time around, so yay for that.

:Oddly enough, this Megatron and the three other Universe Special Edition toys were included in Taiwanese special value packs each containing a [[Revenge of the Fallen DVD field guide|''Revenge of the Fallen'' DVD]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/2008/Decepticon/HTSMegatron/megatron.htm More information on Special Edition Megatron at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===Alternity===
[[Image:Alternity Megatron Toy Blade Silver.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Behold, my Inertia Manipulating Device under my Skirt Armor!!!]]
*'''Megatron Blade Silver''' (2009)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''A-02'''
**''Accessories:'' 2 "tesseractal swords"
:The ''[[Alternity (franchise)|Alternity]]'' Megatron toy transforms into a 1:32 scale model of a Nissan 370Z and features die-cast metal parts and rubber tires. The figure wields two "tesseractal swords" which can be pegged at its hips, or stored under the car in vehicle mode. Each forearm features a flip-out "gravital blade."

: In the hyper-dimensional world of the oft-confusing ''Alternity'' fiction, each figure from this line represents a distinct version of a character from a separate [[universal stream]], but which precise Megatron the "Blade Silver" toy embodies has not been disclosed. Upon its initial release, this toy was also available in blue (see below), and later redecoed in a black variant as well.

{{-}}
*'''Megatron Premium Le Mans Blue''' (2009)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''A-02'''
**''Accessories:'' 2 "tesseractal swords"

: "Premium Le Mans Blue" Megatron is a blue redeco of the "Blade Silver" version, representing the Megatron of [[universal stream]] [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity#Story_of_Binaltech|Primax 903.0 Beta]]. The figure was available simultaneously with Megatron Blade Silver, sharing the same packaging and pack-in materials, save for the color of the illustration on the front of the box, and a sticker that identified the figure within.

{{-}}
*'''Megatron Diamond Black''' (2009)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''A-02'''
**''Accessories:'' 2 "tesseractal swords"

: Another redeco of ''Alternity'' Megatron, this time transforming into a black car with robot parts in red and gold, and specifically representing the Megatron of universal stream [[Megatron (G1)#Alternity|Primax 1286:3 Kappa]]. It was released several months after the first two Megatrons and featured a new package illustration.

{{-}}

===Generations===
*'''Megatron''' (Legends, 2010)

:This toy is based on Megatron's Generation 1 cartoon appearance and its alt-mode is a variant of the original gun. The toy can be held while in gun mode by Masterpiece Starscream. The robot mode borrows inspiration from the [[All Hail Megatron|IDW]] design, specifically his abdomen.

{{comingsoontoy}}

===United===
*'''Megatron''' (Voyager, 2010)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''UN-09'''
{{comingsoontoy}}

==Merchandise==
===Wireless Microphone===
[[Image:MegsMicrophone.jpg|right|thumb|250px|Die kids construction--it's a lost art.]]
* '''Megatron''' (Nasta, 1984)
:One of the earliest pieces of Megatron merchandise is also one of the strangest. Taking the form of Megatron's Walther P-38 gun mode--itself quite controversial and anachronistic due to [[For safety reasons|recent safety regulations]]--the microphone allows children to broadcast their voices to a nearby AM radio by pointing the gun at their mouth and speaking into it.

:'''''Seriously'''''.
{{-}}

===Choro-Q===
*'''Megatron''' (2000)

:''[[Choro-Q]]'' Megatron is a ''Generation 2''-themed [[redeco]] of the Camouflage Tank toy from Takara's ''Choro-Q'' toyline of non-transforming [[super-deformed]] vehicles. He was an [[exclusive]] at [[BotCon]] Japan 2000, and features a [[pull-back motor]] and a rear license plate that reads "BotCon Japan 2000".

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

===Super Collection Figure===
[[Image:HOC-figure Megatron.JPG|right|300px|thumb|]]
*'''Megatron''' (2000)

: A three-inch tall [[plastic|PVC]] figurine of Megatron was available as part of the first wave of [[TakaraTomy|Takara]]'s ''[[Super Collection Figure]]'' line. Like all the figures in the wave, it was available as both a standard full color figure and a clear plastic version, one of each of which was available in a standard case of twelve [[blindpacking|blindpacked]] figures.

*'''Megatron''' (2000)

:Also available in the first ''Super Collection Figure'' wave was a rare "[[Chase figure|chase]]" version of the Megatron figure, decorated in metallic paint and replacing his right hand with his [[energon mace]].

*'''Convoy w/ Megatron Gun''' (2000)
:The second ''Super Collection Figure'' wave featured an Optimus Prime chase figure wielding Megatron in gun-mode and wearing [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]]'s rocket pack (the latter seen in the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 3]]").

*'''Megatron Reincarnation Version''' (2001)
:Megatron got another chase figure in the third ''Super Collection Figure'' act; this time his original figure was cast in clear with purple accents, apparently based on the scene in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' where he is reincarnated as [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]].

*'''Megatron w/ Condor''' (2001)
:For the fourth ''Super Collection Figure'' wave, Megatron left arm was changed to feature [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] perching on it. Like all the figures in the fourth wave, Megatron was available in both standard full color and metallic silver "pewter" versions, one of each of which was available in a standard case of twelve [[blindpacking|blindpacked]] figures. In eight out of every ten cases, the pewter version of Prime came packaged with the right arm of the collectable [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] build-a-figure.

*'''Convoy w/ Megatron Gun''' (2002)
:The sixth ''Super Collection Figure'' wave featured a different version of Prime wielding Megatron's gun mode, now sold on mass-retail rather than being a chase. Unlike the chase one, Prime also came interchangeable empty fist, so he doesn't ''have'' to wield Megatron. The figure was available in both full color and pewter versions in an equal ratio, and in eight out of every ten cases, the pewter version came with the head for the wave's [[Grand Maximus]] build-a-figure.

[[Image:Scf_convoy_set.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''Exclusive Convoy Set''' (2002)
:Available exclusively at the Japanese Wonder Festival convention, this set included the "Convoy w/ Megatron Gun" figure from the sixth wave, and the vehicle-mode Optimus Prime from act 2, both decorated in colored metallic paint. The set was limited to only 1000 units.

{{-}}
[[Image:Scf_confrontation_set.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''TF Confrontation Set 01: Convoy vs Megatron''' (2002)
**''Accessories:'' Energon mace
:Exclusive to the Tokyo Game Show, this special set included the original first-wave Megatron figure, along with the Optimus Prime PVC from the same wave. Both featured new battle damage [[paint operation]]s, and came with the interchangeable energon mace and axe weapons from their first-wave chase figures. As with the Wonder Festival set, this set was also limited to 1000 units.
{{-}}

===Heroes of Cybertron===

When the ''Super Collection Figure'' series was imported to become Hasbro's ''[[Heroes of Cybertron]]'' line, the figures were all cast entirely in translucent colored plastic, then painted over, save for the eyes and a small patch on the back of their heads, giving them all a [[light-piping]] gimmick. Unlike the Japanese figures, they were sold in individual blister packaging, with character profile cards.

*'''Megatron''' (2002)
:A ''Heroes of Cybertron'' release of the first ''Super Collection Figure'' Megatron figure.

* '''Megatron with Plasma Weapon''' (2002)
:This second-wave ''Heroes of Cybertron'' release of the chase figure from the first ''Super Collection Figure'' wave was a little different from its Japanese progenitor, lacking its metallic paint.

* '''Megatron with Laserbeak''' (2003)
:This fifth-wave ''Heroes of Cybertron'' figure is a release of the Megatron/Laserbeak figure from the fourth ''Super Collection Figure'' wave. It came with the right arm for the wave's collectable [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] build-a-figure.

===MyClone===
* '''Megatron''' (MyClone, 2003)

: A "[[super deformed]]" mini-figure of Megatron was created as part of the first wave of ''[[MyClone]]'' Transformers in Japan. These toys could be disassembled and their parts mixed-and-matched thanks to a generic base body.

* '''Megatron''' (MyClone, 2003)

: ''MyClone'' Megatron was also available as a [[chase figure]] in the same wave: this version was cast in clear plastic.

===Hard Hero===
[[Image:HardHero Megatron bust.JPG|right|150px|thumb|Englishmen, you're all so f@#$ing pompous. None of you have got any balls. ]]
*'''Megatron''' (2002)

:The second of [[Hard Hero]]'s series of ''Transformers'' products, Megatron is a six-inch tall bust sculpted from cold-cast porcelain.

*'''Megatron''' (2003)

:A 12.5-inch tall Megatron statue sculpted aiming his fusion cannon while screaming in rage.
{{-}}
===Generation 1 Figure-Collection===

[[Image:Bottlecap_megatron.jpg|right|thumb|]]

*'''Megatron''' (2003)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''D-1'''
**''Accessories:'' Display base

:At only one inch in height, this Megatron "bottlecap" figurine (so named because its display base is the size of a bottlecap) was one of fourteen blindpacked figures available in Kabaya's Transformers [[Generation 1 Figure-Collection]]. The figure was available in both a "retro" black and white color scheme and a rare full-color [[chase figure|chase]] version, and came with a leaflet, personalized with cartoon screen captures.
::*''[http://snakas.web.infoseek.co.jp/misc_item/kabaya_bottle.htm More information on the Generation 1 collection at Autobase Aichi]''
{{-}}

===Palisades===
[[Image:Palisades_Megatron.jpg|thumb|right|]]
* '''Megatron''' ([[Palisades]], 2005)

:Megatron is a six-inch-tall polystone statue on a silver Decepticon-insignia stand. He is decorated with dirt to simulate battle damage, and has articulation in his head and arms. The statue was an [[exclusive]] at San Diego Comic-Con 2005.

{{-}}

===Diamond Select===
[[Image:DecepticonSnowGlobe.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Ooooooh, who lives in a spacecruiser under the sea?]]
* '''Decepticon Snow Globe''' (Diamond Select, 2007)

:Megatron is featured in [[Diamond Select]]'s Decepticon-themed snow globe, sitting on a throne inside the globe whilst pointing with one hand and holding an [[energon cube]] in the other. The globe's base is based on [[Decepticon Headquarters]] from the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]]. It was sculpted by [[Art Asylum]].

{{-}}
[[Image:Megatron statue.jpg|right|175px|thumb|Wonder if they used his legs to make another [[Alligatorcon]]?]]
* '''Megatron''' (Diamond Select, 2008)

:Released by Diamond Select Toys in 2008, this Megatron mini-bust was sculpted by Mark Wong of Art Asylum and limited to 1,500 pieces. The sculpt features Megatron perched above a raised Decepticon symbol while the front of the bust showcases the [[Heart of Cybertron]] as seen in the G1 episode "[[Microbots]]".
{{-}}
[[Image:Reformatted statue.jpg|right|175px|thumb|Sure, he's NTFS now but he dreams of one day being [[Grand Galvatron|FAT32]].]]
* '''Reformatted Megatron''' (Diamond Select, 2008)

:Released by Diamond Select Toys in 2008, Reformatted Megatron was an exclusive to on-line retailer Action Figure Xpress. He was sculpted by Mark Wong of Art Asylum and limited to 600 pieces. Set above [[Unicron]], the sculpt features Megatron in the beginning stages of his reformation into [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] as featured in [[The Transformers: The Movie]].

{{-}}

[[Image:DST_SDCCToonMegatronBust.jpg|right|thumb|200px|]]
* '''G1 Animated Megatron''' (Diamond Select, 2009)
:G1 Animated Megatron was exclusive to the 2009 San Diego Comic Con. He was sculpted by [[Mark Wong]] of [[Art Asylum]] and features a more matte color scheme to better match the cartoon's palette.

{{-}}

===Attacktix===
*'''Megatron''' (Booster, 2007)
[[Image:Attacktix Megatron.jpg|right|200px|thumb|How am I supposed to aim with this thing in the way?]]
{{attacktix
|ID=TF2-20
|faction=Decepticon
|class=Leader
|special=Recover - 16/26 (61%) success ratio
|cost=40
|speed=6
|attacktype=Shooter (Force Blast)
}}
{{-}}
:Based on his G1 cartoon appearance, this Megatron toy is a killer. He was available only in the Series 2 Starter Set along with ''[[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]]'' [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]], ''[[Energon (franchise)|Energon]]'' [[Landquake (Energon)|Landquake]] and ''[[Cybertron (franchise)|Cybertron]]'' [[Skywarp (Armada)|Skywarp]].

:Megatron has an incredibly powerful translucent missile (don't fire it at children or small dogs if you value their lives) and a ''Recover'' special power that allows the figure to stand back up if there's another Decepticon in play. Two Megatrons are a dangerous combination, feeding each other's recover powers and making them very hard to kill off. Plus you can pretend one of them is [[Straxus (G1)|Straxus]].

:As an added bonus, because of the way it is worded, you can use the ''Cybertron'' [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] vehicle mode figure's ''Transform'' power to bring Megatron into play from your back-ups.
{{-}}

===Robot Heroes===
[[Image:RobotHeroes UltraMagnusMegatron.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Cuteness through tyranny!]]
*'''Ultra Magnus and Megatron''' (2007)

:''[[Robot Heroes]]'' Megatron is an adorably [[super-deformed]] figurine depicting the Decepticon leader aiming his fusion cannon with a great big smile on his mouth. Megatron has swivel articulation in his shoulders and was sold in a two-pack with [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]].
{{-}}
[[Image:RobotHeroes SupermetalMegatron.JPG|right|120px|thumb|]]
*'''Decepticon Sneak Attack''' (multi-pack, 2007)

:"Supermetal Finish" Megatron is a redeco of the standard ''Robot Heroes'' Megatron, colored a shiny silver instead of white. He was only available in a Wal-Mart exclusive five-pack alongside "Hologram" [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]], [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]], "Supermetal Finish" [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]].
{{-}}

===Revoltech===
*'''Megatron''' (2007)
**''Yamaguchi Series number:'' '''025'''
**''Accessories:'' Alternate head, 3 alternate hands (left & right open palms, right gun-holding hand)

[[Image:Revoltech Megatron.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Action Masters? Eat your Spark out!]]
:A non-transforming but ''highly'' articulated Megatron action figure(ine), ''[[Revoltech]]'' Megatron uses the ''Revoltech'' "revolver joints" (appropriate, if you think about it...) for maximum poseability. Megatron includes a non-removable fusion cannon and a few alternate hands, as well as an alternate head with its mouth open in either a smirk, growl or sneer, [[Dull surprise|depending on how you read it]]. His sculpting is explicitly in the style of [[Pat Lee|Pat "serfdom" Lee]]'s interpretation of Megatron.

:This figure uses specialized gray revolver joints in order to better blend with the surrounding sculpted parts.

:He includes a hand obviously meant for holding a gun... but has no gun to use it with.
{{-}}
*'''Starscream''' (2008)
**''Yamaguchi Series number:'' '''046'''

:The [[Starscream (G1)/toys#Revoltech|''Revoltech'' Starscream]] toy included a Megatron accessory in his Walther P-38 altmode. While the silencer and scope are molded on, the stock can be removed in order to allow him to be wielded. He can be held by any ''Revoltech'' toy with a standardized gun-wielding hand, including Megatron himself.
{{-}}

===Mighty Muggs===
[[Image:MightyMuggs_Megatron.jpg|right|thumb|175px]]
*'''Megatron''' (2009)
**''Accessories:'' Fusion cannon

: This [[super-deformed]], non-transformable Megatron figure uses the standard [[Mighty Muggs]] body template, with swivel joints in his neck and limbs. He comes with a similarly super-deformed version of his fusion cannon that fits into a hole on his right arm.

{{-}}

===Transformers Wacky Wobblers===
[[Image:WackyWobblers_Megatron.jpg|thumb|right|150px|]]
*'''Megatron''' (2009)

: This Megatron [[wikipedia:Bobblehead|bobblehead]] is part of the popular ''[[Wacky Wobblers]]'' line produced by [[wikipedia:Funko|Funko]]. Aside from the standard-issue big wobbling head, he features a teeny-tiny fusion cannon and arms that swivel at the shoulders. Megatron is affixed to a base with his name on it.
{{-}}

==Notes==
[[Image:Skywarpatron.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Skywarp really DID need close supervision.]]
* It seems that no-one could get Megatron's [[package art]] right in Japan. His standard release used edited box art from the standard Microchange P-38 toy's black deco, recolored to Megatron's US toy color scheme with shiny 'chrome' and red on his legs and arms instead of the Japanese toy's flat gray and blue. The VS-X art replaced the red with blue, but kept the 'chrome'. The art on the 'Goodbye Megatron' set used edited US box art (which in turn was the Microchange P-38 UNCLE art with an added sigil) that replaced the red with blue, yet this toy used red plastic.

* In a possible fit of madness, a triple changer was proposed that would switch between [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (possibly mistaken for Starscream), Megatron, and Skywarp's jet mode.

[[Image:Megalvatron.jpg|right|150px|thumb|This toy IS a time paradox.]]
* In a slightly more sane attempt, another triple changer was proposed which would switch between Megatron, a very awkward [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]], and a Walther P-38 handgun with a futuristic silencer and laser sight.

* According to [[Don Figueroa]], the mysterious clip on the back of 6" Titanium ''War Within'' Megatron was meant to carry the sword Megatron was depicted as using in ''The War Within''. As in the comics, it would presumably have resembled the sword packaged with various versions of G1 Megatron. It may have been omitted due to cost concerns.

* G2 Megatron's lock-and-load shoulder cannon was remolded slightly and reused as the main cannon on the [http://www.yojoe.com/sgtsavage/panther.shtml I.R.O.N Panther Tank] in the very short-lived 1995 [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]] line ''Sgt. Savage & The Screaming Eagles''.

[[Image:Alternity_Megatron_Cannon.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Dude, you'll never fit that in the trunk.]]
* Early concepts for [[#Alternity|Alternity Megatron]] showed him with the trademark fusion cannon rather than his twin swords, as well as a pronounced Decepticon insignia on the chest.
{{-}}

==Footnotes==
<references />

==External links==
* [http://tfu.info/1984/Decepticon/Megatron/megatron.htm Megatron at TFU.info]
* [http://www.ntfa.net/universe/english/index.php?act=view&char=Megatron Megatron's Universe profile at NTFA.net]
*[http://www.transformertoys.co.uk/content.php?/transformers-toys/toy-gallery/1783/Generation+2/Megatron+ATB.html Gallery of ATB Megatron with comparison to BB at Transformers At the Moon]
* [http://www.theunclegun.com/ Unclegun.com - The Walther P-38 as seen in The Man from U.N.C.L.E.]
*[http://www.google.com/patents/about?id=ngAuAAAAEBAJ Megatrons patent]

[[Category:Action Masters]]
[[Category:Attacktix]]
[[Category:Classics characters]]
[[Category:Decepticons]]
[[Category:Decepticon leaders]]
[[Category:Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category:Generation 2 characters]]
[[Category:Go-Bots]]
[[Category:Henkei! Henkei! characters]]
[[Category:Machine Wars characters]]
[[Category:MyClone]]
[[Category:Robot Heroes]]
[[Category:Robot Masters characters]]
[[Category:Titanium Series]]
[[Category:Transmetals]]
[[Category:United]]
[[Category:Universe (2008)]]

File:HHero MegatronStatue.jpg

2010-11-16T00:52:25Z

MrBlud:

Optimus Prime (G1)/merchandise

2010-11-16T00:45:56Z

MrBlud: /* Diamond Select */

{{suite}}

'''Optimus Prime''' is a bit of a shill.
==Stamp Bot==
[[Image:OptimusPrime-StampBot-1984.JPG|right|200px|thumb|Truck stamp is cool!]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (1984)

:Made by HG Toys, Stamp Bot Optimus Prime is a small, non-poseable figurine of Optimus Prime based on his toy with a rubber stamp on the base, and a cap with a felt "floor" that was soaked in ink. The stamp made an image of Optimus Prime's cab mode.
{{-}}

==Knitting Pattern==
[[Image:Transformers-knitting-pattern.JPG|right|thumb|180px|Here to transform your sweater into something that will get your ass kicked.]]
* '''Wendy DK 3015''' (1984?)
: Produced by U.K. company Wendy DK and designed by Joy Gammon, this pamphlet contained patterns for two ''Transformers''-themed sweaters, one featuring Optimus Prime in robot mode, one featuring Optimus Prime in vehicle mode. The patterns were sized as Children's Large, so you're going to have to upscale it quite a bit if you want your <s>girlfriend</s> mom to knit you one.
{{-}}
==Gold Convoy Trophy==
[[Image:Gold_Convoy_Trophy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Thou will worship this golden convoy. Or Perish!]]

: A gold chrome [[Gold Convoy Trophy|trophy]] in the likeness of Optimus Prime was given as an award to an unknown number of distinguished [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] employees and as a [[Lucky Draw]] item way back in the 1980s. If you're an Optimus Prime merchandise completist, good bloody luck finding this one.
{{-}}

==Vehicle Play Tent==
*'''ERO''' (1984?)
[[Image:Vehicleplaytent.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Both a big truck ''and'' a series of tubes.]]
:The Vehicle Play Tent was part of the deluge of Transformers merchandise in the 80s. The tent was constructed by means of a series of plastic tubes that fit into sockets on corner pieces (similar to the "k'nex" building system that arrived a few years later), then a vinyl cover was slipped over this PVC skeleton to make the tent.
{{-}}

==Metalforce==
* '''Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''MFC-01'''
**''Accessories:'' Ion Blaster, Autobot Matrix of Leadership, alternate hand, unpainted rifle, Matrix, helmet and hand
[[Image:MetalforceConvoy.jpg|right|thumb|180px|I'm expensive!]]

: ''Metalforce'' Convoy is a large vinyl figurine sculpted to very closely resemble Optimus Prime as he appeared in the original television series, and at the time was the most accurate product depiction of Optimus Prime's cartoon appearance.

:The figure has useful swivel joints at the shoulders and neck, and not-so-useful ones at the wrists and knees. It comes fully painted and pre-assembled, but true to his garage figure origins his Ion blaster must be cut free using a hobby knife, then assembled. His clear blue chest window piece is removable to allow the installation of his [[Matrix of Leadership]], as is a ''[[The Transformers: The Movie|Movie]]''-style Matrix cover (not pictured). He also comes with an alternate hand that allow him to hold his accessories, as well as unpainted and uncut duplicates of his Matrix, hands and helmet, for some reason...

:Metalforce Prime was available in both a matte-paint "anime" version that more precisely echoed the colours of the actual series, and a metallic-paint version (pictured), which is less [[show-accuracy|show-accurate]] but more shiny. The plain-colours version was the first release and has an Autobot symbol tampograph on his shoulder as per [[The Transformers (cartoon)|the cartoon]], while the later metallic-finish version instead came with a decal sheet.

{{-}}
==Choro-Q==
*'''Convoy''' (2000)

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

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

==Super Collection Figure==

[[Image:Super_collection_figure_primes.jpg|right|300px|thumb]]

*'''Convoy''' (2000)
: A three-inch tall [[plastic|PVC]] figurine of Optimus Prime was available as part of the first wave of [[TakaraTomy|Takara]]'s ''[[Super Collection Figure]]'' line. Like all the figures in the wave, it was available as both a standard full color figure and a clear plastic version, one of each of which was available in a standard case of twelve [[blindpacking|blindpacked]] figures.

*'''Convoy''' (2000)
:Also available in the first ''Super Collection Figure'' wave was a rare "chase" version of the Prime figure, decorated in metallic paint and replacing his gun-wielding right hand with his [[energon-axe]].

*'''Convoy (Trailer Mode)''' (2000)
:Part of the second ''Super Collection Figure'' act, this is the only ''SCF'' figure of a vehicle-mode Transformer. As with the previous non-chase Prime figure, it was available as both a standard full color figure and a clear plastic version, one of each of which was available in a standard case of twelve blindpacked figures.

*'''Convoy w/ Megatron Gun''' (2000)
:The second ''Super Collection Figure'' wave, like the first, also had its own Optimus Prime chase figure, this one wielding Megatron in gun-mode and wearing [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]]'s rocket pack, as seen in the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 3]]".

*'''Convoy Damage Version''' (2001)
:There was no mass-release Optimus Prime figure for the third ''Super Collection Figure'' act, but there was another rare chase figure, this time a battle-damaged version of the original figure from the first act.

*'''Convoy''' (2001)
:For the fourth ''Super Collection Figure'' wave, Prime was rendered weaponless, speaking into the open communication panel on his left arm. Like all the figures in the fourth wave, Prime was available in both standard full color and metallic silver "pewter" versions, one of each of which was available in a standard case of twelve [[blindpacking|blindpacked]] figures. In eight out of every ten cases, the pewter version of Prime came packaged with the left arm of the collectable [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] build-a-figure.

*'''Convoy w/ Matrix''' (2001)
:This version of Prime was a chase figure in the fifth ''Super Collection Figure'' act, and depicted the Autobot leader, rendered in metallic silver, opening the Matrix.

*'''Convoy w/ Megatron Gun''' (2002)
:The sixth ''Super Collection Figure'' wave featured yet another mass-release version of Prime. Again wielding Megatron, much like the chase figure from the second wave, this figure came with an interchangeable empty fist. The figure was available in both full color and pewter versions in an equal ratio, and in eight out of every ten cases, the pewter version came with the head for the wave's [[Grand Maximus]] build-a-figure.

*'''Star Convoy''' (2002)
:After taking a break for the seventh wave, Prime returned for the eighth ''Super Collection Figure'' wave, which would prove to be the final Generation 1-themed set of figures. This figure of Prime in his Star Convoy body was available in both full color and pewter versions in an equal ratio, and in eight out of every ten cases, the colored version came with the right arm for the wave's [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] build-a-figure.

{{-}}
[[Image:Scf_convoy_set.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''Exclusive Convoy Set''' (2002)
:Available exclusively at the Japanese Wonder Festival convention, this set included the "Convoy w/ Megatron Gun" figure from the sixth wave, and the vehicle-mode Prime from act 2, both decorated in colored metallic paint. The set was limited to only 1000 units.
{{-}}
[[Image:Scf_confrontation_set.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''TF Confrontation Set 01: Convoy vs Megatron''' (2002)
**''Accessories:'' Energon-axe
:Exclusive to the Tokyo Game Show, this special set included the original first-wave Optimus Prime figure, along with the Megatron PVC from the same wave. Both featured new battle damage [[paint operation]]s, and came with the interchangeable energon-axe and mace weapons from their first-wave chase figures. As with the Wonder Festival set, this set was also limited to 1000 units.
{{-}}

==Heroes of Cybertron==

When the ''Super Collection Figure'' series was imported to become Hasbro's ''[[Heroes of Cybertron]]'' line, the figures were all cast entirely in translucent colored plastic, then painted over, save for the eyes and a small patch on the back of their heads, giving them all a [[light-piping]] gimmick. Unlike the Japanese figures, they were sold in individual blister packaging, with character profile cards.

* '''Optimus Prime''' (2002)
:A ''Heroes of Cybertron'' release of the first ''Super Collection Figure'' Optimus Prime figure.

* '''Powermaster Optimus Prime Apex Armor''' (2002)
: Actually a repaint of the ''Super Collection Figure'' of Prime's ''[[Super-God Masterforce (franchise)|Super-God Masterforce]]'' lookalike [[Ginrai|God Ginrai]], this figurine is based on Ginrai's appearance in the ''Super-God Masterforce'' cartoon, and depicts Prime combined with his trailer and [[Apex Bomber]].

* '''Optimus Prime with Plasma Weapon''' (2002)
:This second-wave ''Heroes of Cybertron'' release of the chase figure from the first ''Super Collection Figure'' wave was a little different from its Japanese progenitor, lacking its metallic paint.

* '''Powermaster Optimus Prime Spark Attack''' (2002)
: Another unusual figure, this second-wave figurine is a redeco of the first God Ginrai/Powermaster Prime Apex Armor PVC figure, cast in translucent orange plastic. The figure emulates God Ginrai performing his "God Fire Guts" attack, although the ''Super Collection Figure'' Fire Guts God Ginrai figure was actually metallic golden.

*''' Optimus Prime with Communicator''' (2003)
:This fifth-wave ''Heroes of Cybertron'' figure is a release of the Prime figure from the fourth ''Super Collection Figure'' wave. It came with the head and weapons for the wave's collectable [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] build-a-figure.

<center><gallery>
Image:HOCPrime.jpg|Hey Spike, pull my finger.
Image:HOCPrime_axe.jpg|Energon Axe: Only used in [[More than Meets the Eye, Part 2|one episode]]. Ever.
Image:Aaoptimus.jpg|Don't tell anyone, but this crap is HEAVY!
Image:Pmoptimus.jpg|This can't be [[Spark attack|Spark Attack]]! His is so energetic that... he BURNS.
</gallery></center>

{{-}}
==Hard Hero==
[[Image:HardHero_OptimusPrime_bust.JPG|right|thumb|150px|]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (Bust, 2002)

: Optimus Prime was the first ''Transformers'' bust released by [[Hard Hero]]. He is approximately six inches tall at the head (8.5 at the gun) and is made out of cold-cast porcelain. There were also a version of the bust signed by the sculptor, limited to 100 samples.

{{-}}
*'''Optimus Prime''' (Full figure statue, 2003)

: Hard Hero also created a 13-inch tall Optimus Prime statue. It is sculpted pointing with his left hand while holding his ion rifle in his right.

{{-}}
==Generation 1 Figure-Collection==

[[Image:Bottlecap_prime_gun.JPG|right|thumb|]]

*'''Convoy (gun)''' (2003)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''C-1'''
**''Accessories:'' Display base

:At only one inch in height, this Optimus "bottlecap" figurine (so named because its display base is the size of a bottlecap) was one of fourteen blindpacked figures available in Kabaya's Transformers [[Generation 1 Figure-Collection]]. The figure was rendered in both a standard "retro" black and white color scheme, and a rare full-color [[chase figure|chase]] version, and came with a leaflet, personalized with cartoon screen captures.
{{-}}
[[Image:Bottlecap prime pointing.JPG|thumb]]
*'''Convoy (pointing)''' (2003)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''C-2'''
**''Accessories:'' Display base

:The second Prime figure in the Generation 1 collection was much like the first, only sculpted with an empty hand, pointing off into the distance like a lot of Optimus Prime figures are wont to do.
::*''[http://snakas.web.infoseek.co.jp/misc_item/kabaya_bottle.htm More information on the Bottlecap Collection at Autobase Aichi]''

{{--}}

==KT Figure Collection - The Transformers==
*'''Convoy''' (KT Figure Collection, 2004)
: This figure was designed by [[Yūki Ōshima]] and produced by [[KT Figure Collection]]. The figure is actually a mini bust of Optimus Prime, which includes the head and the upper body without arms. The chest design comes with translucent blue windows and a grill on the midsection. There is also a button in the back. Pushing the button will open the chest and cause the Matrix to emerge, similar to the scene in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.

*'''Convoy "Revival version"''' (''[[Figure Ō]]'' exclusive, 2004)
: The 82nd issue of the hobby magazine ''[[Figure Ō]]'' came with a [[redeco]] version of Optimus Prime's mini bust. It is painted completely silver, making him appear to be coated with the special alloy from "[[The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 2]]".

<center><gallery>
Image:Optimus_Prime_KT.jpg|Thanks for helping me... [[City of Steel|pull myself together]].
Image:Optimus_Prime_ex_KT.jpg|No, I am [[redeco|NOT]] [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]! I'm silver, not [[:Image:Magnuslongshot.jpg|white]].
</gallery></center>
{{-}}

==Palisades==
[[Image:Palisades_WarWithinPrime.jpg|right|thumb|200px|]]
* '''The War Within Optimus Prime''' ([[Palisades]], 2005)

:'''The War Within'' Optimus Prime is a six-inch-tall polystone mini statue based on his appearance in the popular [[War Within (franchise)|''War Within'' comic book series]]. Prime stands on a silver Autobot-insignia stand, is decorated with dirt to simulate battle damage, and has articulation in his head and arms. The statue was limited to 1500 pieces worldwide.

{{-}}

==Titanium==
[[Image:TitaniumRMWWPrime.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Squattie]]
* '''War Within Optimus Prime''' (3" Robot Masters, 2006)
**''Accessories:'' Ion Blaster, display stand

: ''War Within'' Optimus Prime is the second toy representation of Optimus Prime as he appears in ''War Within''. Constructed partially of die-cast metal, this three inch version cannot transform and has some articulation, limited to his shoulders, head and waist.

{{-}}
[[Image:TitaniumRMG1Prime.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Drop and give me twenty, soldier!]]
* '''Optimus Prime''' (3" Robot Master, 2006)
**''Accessories:'' Ion Blaster, display stand

: The first Titanium representation of G1 Optimus Prime has a well-proportioned sculpt based on his 20th Anniversary toy. Constructed partially of die-cast metal, this three inch version cannot transform and has some articulation, limited to his shoulders, head and waist.

{{-}}
* '''Optimus Prime (Battle Damaged)''' (3" Robot Master, 2006)
**''Accessories:'' Ion Blaster, display stand
: This is a repaint of the 3" G1 Optimus Prime titanium figurine, with a 'battle-damaged' deco.

*'''Optimus Prime & Bumblebee''' (2-pack, 2007)
**''Accessories:'' Ion Blaster, display stand
: A Toys 'R' Us [[exclusive]] two-pack, this set features "Supermetal Finish" (read: shiny) versions of the "Robot Master" ''Titaniums'' Optimus Prime and Bumblebee.

==Diamond Select==
[[Image:Optimus Prime Mini-bust.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Autobots, Roll Out!!]]
* '''Optimus Prime''' (Diamond Select, 2007)
:A mini-bust of Optimus Prime based on his appearance in the comic was released by [[Diamond Select]] in 2007. The figure includes the upper body of Optimus Prime, carrying his laser rifle and posed as if preparing to charge. The Matrix of Leadership is sculpted into the base of the statue.

{{-}}
[[Image:Ark_Globe.jpg|thumb|right|200px|]]
*'''Autobot Snow Globe''' (Diamond Select, 2007)

:Optimus Prime is also featured in Diamond Select's Autobot-themed snow globe, posing above a [[Mount St. Hilary]] base which also features the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'' and [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]]. The globe was sculpted by [[Art Asylum]].

{{-}}

[[Image:DST08_FinalBattlePrimeBust.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Hold this for a moment won't you.]]
* '''Final Battle Optimus Prime''' (Diamond Select, 2008)
:Final Battle Optimus Prime was exclusive to the online retailer Action Figure Xpress. He was sculpted by [[Mark Wong]] of [[Art Asylum]] and limited to 1000 pieces. Optimus Prime is shown after his climactic battle with Megatron during Transformers: The Movie; shortly before he passed the Matrix of Leadership (which is also removable here) to Ultra Magnus. His base features the life support readout that monitored both his declining health and eventual death.

{{-}}

[[Image:DST_SDCCToonPrimeBust.jpg|right|thumb|200px|]]
* '''G1 Animated Optimus Prime''' (Diamond Select, 2008)
:G1 Animated Optimus Prime was exclusive to the 2008 San Diego Comic Con. He was sculpted by [[Mark Wong]] of [[Art Asylum]] and features a more matte color scheme to better match the cartoon's palette.

{{-}}

[[Image:DiamondSelect_PowermasterOptimus.jpg|thumb|right|200px|]]
*'''Powermaster Optimus Prime''' (Diamond Select, 2010)

:This fourth Optimus Prime bust was to be based on his [[Powermaster]] incarnation, but appears to have been canceled.

{{canceledtoy}}
{{-}}

==First 4 Figures==
[[Image:SnakeEyes_OptimusPrime_statue.jpg|thumb|right|150px|]]
*'''Snake-Eyes & Optimus Prime Statue''' (2007)

:[[First 4 Figures]] produced a statue based on the cover of [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 1|issue 1]] of ''[[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers]]'', featuring an Optimus Prime in the [[Cobra]] HISS tank body he used in that series. Prime is an 8-inch tall one-armed bust, and ''[[G.I. Joe (franchise)|G.I. Joe]]''<nowiki>'s</nowiki> resident ninja [[Snake-Eyes]] stands battle-ready in his open palm.

{{-}}
[[Image:StormShadow_OptimusPrime_statue.jpg|thumb|150px|right|]]
* '''Storm Shadow & Optimus Prime Statue''' (2007)

: First 4 Figures's second ''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers'' statue is 7.5 inches tall and is based on the cover of [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 5|issue 5]]. This one depicts [[Cobra]]'s own ninja, [[Storm Shadow]], taking a stance above Optimus Prime's damaged head. The statue was limited to 1000 samples.

{{-}}

==Transformers (2007)==
*'''Optimash Prime''' (2007)
{{main|Optimash Prime}}
{{-}}
[[Image:Softimus Prime.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Freedom is the right of all sentient beings... in bed.]]
*'''Softimus Prime''' (2007)

:Softimus Prime is, as his name suggests, a plush G1 Optimus Prime toy. Obviously, he has no problems with articulation and passes the drop test with flying colors. His main draw is the ability to "transform" into his Freightliner FL86 vehicle mode by turning the plush toy inside out, his transformation roughly similar to the Powermaster cab Prime's. He features Movie-style faction symbols on his right arm and both sides of his cab mode. He is love.

{{-}}
==Robot Heroes==
[[Image:RH_Optimus_vs_Ravage.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Mini-Me!]]
*'''Optimus Prime Vs Ravage''' (2007)

: Packed with [[Ravage (G1)/toys|Ravage]], Optimus Prime is one of the first figures in the Transformers segment of the ''Heroes'' franchise. As with all ''Heroes'' figures, Optimus Prime is a simple, yet well-detailed two-inch tall figurine with exaggerated, cartoony proportions. He is sculpted holding his Ion Blaster rifle in his right fist and his left arm in a pointing pose. He is also love, and demands that you pull his [[More than Meets the Eye, Part 3#Notes|Finger of Doom]].

: This version of Optimus was later also released as part of a set with a 100-piece [[jigsaw puzzle]].

[[Image:Robot_Hero_Supermetal_Optimus_Prime.jpg|right|thumb|100px|Cuteness is the right of all sentient beings.]]
*'''Decepticon Sneak Attack''' (2007)

: "Supermetal Finish" Optimus Prime is a special shiny [[redeco]] of the previous Robot Hero. He came in a Wal-Mart exclusive multipack also including "Hologram" [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]], [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]], "Supermetal Finish" [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]].

{{-}}

[[Image:RH_Prime_vs_Unicron.jpg|right|thumb|150px|'Til all are cute.]]
*'''Optimus Prime Vs Unicron''' (2007)

: Packed with [[Unicron]], a second SD Optimus Prime for the Transformers segment of the ''Heroes'' franchise. This version of the Chibimus Prime has him opening the Matrix of Leadership to shine the Autobots' darkest hour. Better him than [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus]].

{{-}}

==Attacktix==

*'''Optimus Prime''' (Starter Set, 2007)
[[Image:Attacktix_Optimus_Prime.jpg|right|thumb|He shoots sideways. The direction, not [[Sideways (RID)|the character]].]]
{{attacktix
|ID=TF2-19
|faction=Autobot
|class=Leader
|special=Last Stand - 13/26 (50%) success ratio
|cost=40
|speed=6
|attacktype=Shooter (Force Blast)
}}
{{-}}
:Optimus Prime will shoot you down. He was released as part of the 2007 Starter Set along with ''[[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]]'' [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], ''[[Energon (franchise)|Energon]]'' [[Landquake (Energon)|Landquake]]) and ''[[Cybertron (franchise)|Cybertron]]'' [[Skywarp (Armada)|Skywarp]].

:Optimus' Last Stand special allows him to stand up if he's the only figure in your team left in play. If you're down to two men you might even be tempted to shoot your own man just to keep Optimus Prime in play. Don't though. [[Peter Cullen]] wouldn't approve.

:Sadly you can't bring him into play with the ''Cybertron'' [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Super Optimus Prime]] vehicle mode because he's not ''Super'' Optimus Prime.
{{-}}
==Revoltech==
[[Image:Revoltech_Convoy.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Windowbra!]]
*'''Convoy''' (2007)
**''Series number:'' '''019'''
**''Accessories:'' Ion blaster, Autobot Matrix of Leadership, two clenched fists, gun-wielding right hand, pointing right hand, open left hand

:A non-transforming but ''highly'' articulated Optimus Prime action figure(ine), ''[[Revoltech]]'' Convoy uses the ''Revoltech'' "revolver joints" for maximum poseability. Prime comes with his now-standard ion blaster and Matrix of Leadership accessories, as well as a few alternate hands; while one of the hands is specifically designed to grip the ion blaster, he can't really do anything dramatic with the Matrix, and it just sort of sits in his open-palmed left hand. His sculpting is explicitly in the style of [[Pat Lee|Pat "serfdom" Lee]]'s interpretation of Prime, but due to physical constraints has no lack of perspective.

:Unsurprisingly, this mold was redecoed to create ''Revoltech'' [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/toys|Ultra Magnus]]. Magnus comes with a new hand mold that can be used to connect him and Prime together in a handshake.

{{--}}

==Mighty Muggs==
[[Image:MightyMuggs_OptimusPrime.jpg|right|thumb|175px|Optimus lost his ears in the rock tumbler.]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (2009)
:''Accessories:'' Ion rifle

: This [[super-deformed]], non-transformable Optimus Prime figure uses the standard [[Mighty Muggs]] body template, with swivel joints in his neck and limbs. He comes with a similarly super-deformed version of his ion rifle.

{{-}}

[[Image:MightyMuggs_MetallicOptimusPrime.jpg|right|thumb|175px|Optimus, did you polish your head in the Shine-O Ball-O?]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (2009)
**''Accessories:'' Ion rifle

: An [[exclusive]] to the [http://www.comic-con.org/cci/ 2009 San Diego Comic-Con], this Optimus Prime Mugg has a shiny metallic finish.

{{-}}

==Transformers Wacky Wobblers==
[[Image:WackyWobblers_G1OptimusPrime.jpg|thumb|right|150px|]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (2009)

: This Optimus Prime [[wikipedia:Bobblehead|bobblehead]] is part of the popular ''[[Wacky Wobblers]]'' line produced by [[wikipedia:Funko|Funko]]. Aside from the standard-issue big wobbling head, he features a ion rifle molded onto his right hand and his arms swivel at the shoulders. Optimus is affixed to a base with his name on it.
{{-}}

==USB-Powered Speaker Head==
*'''Optimus Prime USB-Powered Speaker Head'''
[[Image:G1-optimusprime-merc-speaker.jpg|thumb|right|180px|]]
: As a 6.5" figure, Optimus Prime's head is built-in with [[Wikipedia:Universal Serial Bus|USB]]-powered speakers. There are two speaker inside each side of Optimus Prime's head. The control panel, USB port, and earphone port is locate in the back of the head. Under the neck, there is a display to support the head.
: The speaker is redecoed to create Ultra Magnus Speaker.
{{-}}

==Transformers Backpacks==
*'''Optimus Prime''' (2009)

:Made by [[Fab Starpoint]], these backpacks are allegedly "engineered for style, safety, comfort... and saving the Universe!" The Generation 1 Optimus Prime design features a stock silhouette of Optimus Prime surrounded by stars, like the [[Paramount Pictures]] logo, while on the lower compartment there is a gigantic Autobot sigil.
{{comingsoontoy}}
{{-}}

[[Category: Attacktix]]
[[Category: Autobots]]
[[Category: Autobot leaders]]
[[Category: Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category: MyClone]]
[[Category: Robot Heroes]]
[[Category: Robot Masters characters]]
[[Category: Titanium Series]]

Optimus Prime (G1)/merchandise

2010-11-16T00:44:47Z

MrBlud: /* Diamond Select */

{{suite}}

'''Optimus Prime''' is a bit of a shill.
==Stamp Bot==
[[Image:OptimusPrime-StampBot-1984.JPG|right|200px|thumb|Truck stamp is cool!]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (1984)

:Made by HG Toys, Stamp Bot Optimus Prime is a small, non-poseable figurine of Optimus Prime based on his toy with a rubber stamp on the base, and a cap with a felt "floor" that was soaked in ink. The stamp made an image of Optimus Prime's cab mode.
{{-}}

==Knitting Pattern==
[[Image:Transformers-knitting-pattern.JPG|right|thumb|180px|Here to transform your sweater into something that will get your ass kicked.]]
* '''Wendy DK 3015''' (1984?)
: Produced by U.K. company Wendy DK and designed by Joy Gammon, this pamphlet contained patterns for two ''Transformers''-themed sweaters, one featuring Optimus Prime in robot mode, one featuring Optimus Prime in vehicle mode. The patterns were sized as Children's Large, so you're going to have to upscale it quite a bit if you want your <s>girlfriend</s> mom to knit you one.
{{-}}
==Gold Convoy Trophy==
[[Image:Gold_Convoy_Trophy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Thou will worship this golden convoy. Or Perish!]]

: A gold chrome [[Gold Convoy Trophy|trophy]] in the likeness of Optimus Prime was given as an award to an unknown number of distinguished [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] employees and as a [[Lucky Draw]] item way back in the 1980s. If you're an Optimus Prime merchandise completist, good bloody luck finding this one.
{{-}}

==Vehicle Play Tent==
*'''ERO''' (1984?)
[[Image:Vehicleplaytent.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Both a big truck ''and'' a series of tubes.]]
:The Vehicle Play Tent was part of the deluge of Transformers merchandise in the 80s. The tent was constructed by means of a series of plastic tubes that fit into sockets on corner pieces (similar to the "k'nex" building system that arrived a few years later), then a vinyl cover was slipped over this PVC skeleton to make the tent.
{{-}}

==Metalforce==
* '''Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''MFC-01'''
**''Accessories:'' Ion Blaster, Autobot Matrix of Leadership, alternate hand, unpainted rifle, Matrix, helmet and hand
[[Image:MetalforceConvoy.jpg|right|thumb|180px|I'm expensive!]]

: ''Metalforce'' Convoy is a large vinyl figurine sculpted to very closely resemble Optimus Prime as he appeared in the original television series, and at the time was the most accurate product depiction of Optimus Prime's cartoon appearance.

:The figure has useful swivel joints at the shoulders and neck, and not-so-useful ones at the wrists and knees. It comes fully painted and pre-assembled, but true to his garage figure origins his Ion blaster must be cut free using a hobby knife, then assembled. His clear blue chest window piece is removable to allow the installation of his [[Matrix of Leadership]], as is a ''[[The Transformers: The Movie|Movie]]''-style Matrix cover (not pictured). He also comes with an alternate hand that allow him to hold his accessories, as well as unpainted and uncut duplicates of his Matrix, hands and helmet, for some reason...

:Metalforce Prime was available in both a matte-paint "anime" version that more precisely echoed the colours of the actual series, and a metallic-paint version (pictured), which is less [[show-accuracy|show-accurate]] but more shiny. The plain-colours version was the first release and has an Autobot symbol tampograph on his shoulder as per [[The Transformers (cartoon)|the cartoon]], while the later metallic-finish version instead came with a decal sheet.

{{-}}
==Choro-Q==
*'''Convoy''' (2000)

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

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

==Super Collection Figure==

[[Image:Super_collection_figure_primes.jpg|right|300px|thumb]]

*'''Convoy''' (2000)
: A three-inch tall [[plastic|PVC]] figurine of Optimus Prime was available as part of the first wave of [[TakaraTomy|Takara]]'s ''[[Super Collection Figure]]'' line. Like all the figures in the wave, it was available as both a standard full color figure and a clear plastic version, one of each of which was available in a standard case of twelve [[blindpacking|blindpacked]] figures.

*'''Convoy''' (2000)
:Also available in the first ''Super Collection Figure'' wave was a rare "chase" version of the Prime figure, decorated in metallic paint and replacing his gun-wielding right hand with his [[energon-axe]].

*'''Convoy (Trailer Mode)''' (2000)
:Part of the second ''Super Collection Figure'' act, this is the only ''SCF'' figure of a vehicle-mode Transformer. As with the previous non-chase Prime figure, it was available as both a standard full color figure and a clear plastic version, one of each of which was available in a standard case of twelve blindpacked figures.

*'''Convoy w/ Megatron Gun''' (2000)
:The second ''Super Collection Figure'' wave, like the first, also had its own Optimus Prime chase figure, this one wielding Megatron in gun-mode and wearing [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]]'s rocket pack, as seen in the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] episode "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 3]]".

*'''Convoy Damage Version''' (2001)
:There was no mass-release Optimus Prime figure for the third ''Super Collection Figure'' act, but there was another rare chase figure, this time a battle-damaged version of the original figure from the first act.

*'''Convoy''' (2001)
:For the fourth ''Super Collection Figure'' wave, Prime was rendered weaponless, speaking into the open communication panel on his left arm. Like all the figures in the fourth wave, Prime was available in both standard full color and metallic silver "pewter" versions, one of each of which was available in a standard case of twelve [[blindpacking|blindpacked]] figures. In eight out of every ten cases, the pewter version of Prime came packaged with the left arm of the collectable [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] build-a-figure.

*'''Convoy w/ Matrix''' (2001)
:This version of Prime was a chase figure in the fifth ''Super Collection Figure'' act, and depicted the Autobot leader, rendered in metallic silver, opening the Matrix.

*'''Convoy w/ Megatron Gun''' (2002)
:The sixth ''Super Collection Figure'' wave featured yet another mass-release version of Prime. Again wielding Megatron, much like the chase figure from the second wave, this figure came with an interchangeable empty fist. The figure was available in both full color and pewter versions in an equal ratio, and in eight out of every ten cases, the pewter version came with the head for the wave's [[Grand Maximus]] build-a-figure.

*'''Star Convoy''' (2002)
:After taking a break for the seventh wave, Prime returned for the eighth ''Super Collection Figure'' wave, which would prove to be the final Generation 1-themed set of figures. This figure of Prime in his Star Convoy body was available in both full color and pewter versions in an equal ratio, and in eight out of every ten cases, the colored version came with the right arm for the wave's [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] build-a-figure.

{{-}}
[[Image:Scf_convoy_set.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''Exclusive Convoy Set''' (2002)
:Available exclusively at the Japanese Wonder Festival convention, this set included the "Convoy w/ Megatron Gun" figure from the sixth wave, and the vehicle-mode Prime from act 2, both decorated in colored metallic paint. The set was limited to only 1000 units.
{{-}}
[[Image:Scf_confrontation_set.jpg|right|thumb|300px]]
*'''TF Confrontation Set 01: Convoy vs Megatron''' (2002)
**''Accessories:'' Energon-axe
:Exclusive to the Tokyo Game Show, this special set included the original first-wave Optimus Prime figure, along with the Megatron PVC from the same wave. Both featured new battle damage [[paint operation]]s, and came with the interchangeable energon-axe and mace weapons from their first-wave chase figures. As with the Wonder Festival set, this set was also limited to 1000 units.
{{-}}

==Heroes of Cybertron==

When the ''Super Collection Figure'' series was imported to become Hasbro's ''[[Heroes of Cybertron]]'' line, the figures were all cast entirely in translucent colored plastic, then painted over, save for the eyes and a small patch on the back of their heads, giving them all a [[light-piping]] gimmick. Unlike the Japanese figures, they were sold in individual blister packaging, with character profile cards.

* '''Optimus Prime''' (2002)
:A ''Heroes of Cybertron'' release of the first ''Super Collection Figure'' Optimus Prime figure.

* '''Powermaster Optimus Prime Apex Armor''' (2002)
: Actually a repaint of the ''Super Collection Figure'' of Prime's ''[[Super-God Masterforce (franchise)|Super-God Masterforce]]'' lookalike [[Ginrai|God Ginrai]], this figurine is based on Ginrai's appearance in the ''Super-God Masterforce'' cartoon, and depicts Prime combined with his trailer and [[Apex Bomber]].

* '''Optimus Prime with Plasma Weapon''' (2002)
:This second-wave ''Heroes of Cybertron'' release of the chase figure from the first ''Super Collection Figure'' wave was a little different from its Japanese progenitor, lacking its metallic paint.

* '''Powermaster Optimus Prime Spark Attack''' (2002)
: Another unusual figure, this second-wave figurine is a redeco of the first God Ginrai/Powermaster Prime Apex Armor PVC figure, cast in translucent orange plastic. The figure emulates God Ginrai performing his "God Fire Guts" attack, although the ''Super Collection Figure'' Fire Guts God Ginrai figure was actually metallic golden.

*''' Optimus Prime with Communicator''' (2003)
:This fifth-wave ''Heroes of Cybertron'' figure is a release of the Prime figure from the fourth ''Super Collection Figure'' wave. It came with the head and weapons for the wave's collectable [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] build-a-figure.

<center><gallery>
Image:HOCPrime.jpg|Hey Spike, pull my finger.
Image:HOCPrime_axe.jpg|Energon Axe: Only used in [[More than Meets the Eye, Part 2|one episode]]. Ever.
Image:Aaoptimus.jpg|Don't tell anyone, but this crap is HEAVY!
Image:Pmoptimus.jpg|This can't be [[Spark attack|Spark Attack]]! His is so energetic that... he BURNS.
</gallery></center>

{{-}}
==Hard Hero==
[[Image:HardHero_OptimusPrime_bust.JPG|right|thumb|150px|]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (Bust, 2002)

: Optimus Prime was the first ''Transformers'' bust released by [[Hard Hero]]. He is approximately six inches tall at the head (8.5 at the gun) and is made out of cold-cast porcelain. There were also a version of the bust signed by the sculptor, limited to 100 samples.

{{-}}
*'''Optimus Prime''' (Full figure statue, 2003)

: Hard Hero also created a 13-inch tall Optimus Prime statue. It is sculpted pointing with his left hand while holding his ion rifle in his right.

{{-}}
==Generation 1 Figure-Collection==

[[Image:Bottlecap_prime_gun.JPG|right|thumb|]]

*'''Convoy (gun)''' (2003)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''C-1'''
**''Accessories:'' Display base

:At only one inch in height, this Optimus "bottlecap" figurine (so named because its display base is the size of a bottlecap) was one of fourteen blindpacked figures available in Kabaya's Transformers [[Generation 1 Figure-Collection]]. The figure was rendered in both a standard "retro" black and white color scheme, and a rare full-color [[chase figure|chase]] version, and came with a leaflet, personalized with cartoon screen captures.
{{-}}
[[Image:Bottlecap prime pointing.JPG|thumb]]
*'''Convoy (pointing)''' (2003)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''C-2'''
**''Accessories:'' Display base

:The second Prime figure in the Generation 1 collection was much like the first, only sculpted with an empty hand, pointing off into the distance like a lot of Optimus Prime figures are wont to do.
::*''[http://snakas.web.infoseek.co.jp/misc_item/kabaya_bottle.htm More information on the Bottlecap Collection at Autobase Aichi]''

{{--}}

==KT Figure Collection - The Transformers==
*'''Convoy''' (KT Figure Collection, 2004)
: This figure was designed by [[Yūki Ōshima]] and produced by [[KT Figure Collection]]. The figure is actually a mini bust of Optimus Prime, which includes the head and the upper body without arms. The chest design comes with translucent blue windows and a grill on the midsection. There is also a button in the back. Pushing the button will open the chest and cause the Matrix to emerge, similar to the scene in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.

*'''Convoy "Revival version"''' (''[[Figure Ō]]'' exclusive, 2004)
: The 82nd issue of the hobby magazine ''[[Figure Ō]]'' came with a [[redeco]] version of Optimus Prime's mini bust. It is painted completely silver, making him appear to be coated with the special alloy from "[[The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 2]]".

<center><gallery>
Image:Optimus_Prime_KT.jpg|Thanks for helping me... [[City of Steel|pull myself together]].
Image:Optimus_Prime_ex_KT.jpg|No, I am [[redeco|NOT]] [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]! I'm silver, not [[:Image:Magnuslongshot.jpg|white]].
</gallery></center>
{{-}}

==Palisades==
[[Image:Palisades_WarWithinPrime.jpg|right|thumb|200px|]]
* '''The War Within Optimus Prime''' ([[Palisades]], 2005)

:'''The War Within'' Optimus Prime is a six-inch-tall polystone mini statue based on his appearance in the popular [[War Within (franchise)|''War Within'' comic book series]]. Prime stands on a silver Autobot-insignia stand, is decorated with dirt to simulate battle damage, and has articulation in his head and arms. The statue was limited to 1500 pieces worldwide.

{{-}}

==Titanium==
[[Image:TitaniumRMWWPrime.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Squattie]]
* '''War Within Optimus Prime''' (3" Robot Masters, 2006)
**''Accessories:'' Ion Blaster, display stand

: ''War Within'' Optimus Prime is the second toy representation of Optimus Prime as he appears in ''War Within''. Constructed partially of die-cast metal, this three inch version cannot transform and has some articulation, limited to his shoulders, head and waist.

{{-}}
[[Image:TitaniumRMG1Prime.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Drop and give me twenty, soldier!]]
* '''Optimus Prime''' (3" Robot Master, 2006)
**''Accessories:'' Ion Blaster, display stand

: The first Titanium representation of G1 Optimus Prime has a well-proportioned sculpt based on his 20th Anniversary toy. Constructed partially of die-cast metal, this three inch version cannot transform and has some articulation, limited to his shoulders, head and waist.

{{-}}
* '''Optimus Prime (Battle Damaged)''' (3" Robot Master, 2006)
**''Accessories:'' Ion Blaster, display stand
: This is a repaint of the 3" G1 Optimus Prime titanium figurine, with a 'battle-damaged' deco.

*'''Optimus Prime & Bumblebee''' (2-pack, 2007)
**''Accessories:'' Ion Blaster, display stand
: A Toys 'R' Us [[exclusive]] two-pack, this set features "Supermetal Finish" (read: shiny) versions of the "Robot Master" ''Titaniums'' Optimus Prime and Bumblebee.

==Diamond Select==
[[Image:Optimus Prime Mini-bust.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Autobots, Roll Out!!]]
* '''Optimus Prime''' (Diamond Select, 2007)
:A mini-bust of Optimus Prime based on his appearance in the comic was released by [[Diamond Select]] in 2007. The figure includes the upper body of Optimus Prime, carrying his laser rifle and posed as if preparing to charge. The Matrix of Leadership is sculpted into the base of the statue.

{{-}}
[[Image:Ark_Globe.jpg|thumb|right|200px|]]
*'''Autobot Snow Globe''' (Diamond Select, 2007)

:Optimus Prime is also featured in Diamond Select's Autobot-themed snow globe, posing above a [[Mount St. Hilary]] base which also features the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'' and [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]]. The globe was sculpted by [[Art Asylum]].

{{-}}

[[Image:DST08_FinalBattlePrimeBust.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Hold this for a moment won't you.]]
* '''Final Battle Optimus Prime''' (Diamond Select, 2008)
Final Battle Optimus Prime was exclusive to the online retailer Action Figure Xpress. He was sculpted by [[Mark Wong]] of [[Art Asylum]] and limited to 1000 pieces. Optimus Prime is shown after his climactic battle with Megatron during Transformers: The Movie; shortly before he passed the Matrix of Leadership (which is also removable here) to Ultra Magnus. His base features the life support readout that monitored both his declining health and eventual death.

{{-}}

[[Image:DST_SDCCToonPrimeBust.jpg|right|thumb|200px|]]
* '''G1 Animated Optimus Prime''' (Diamond Select, 2008)
G1 Animated Optimus Prime was exclusive to the 2008 San Diego Comic Con. He was sculpted by [[Mark Wong]] of [[Art Asylum]] and features a more matte color scheme to better match the cartoon's palette.

{{-}}

[[Image:DiamondSelect_PowermasterOptimus.jpg|thumb|right|200px|]]
*'''Powermaster Optimus Prime''' (Diamond Select, 2010)

:This fourth Optimus Prime bust was to be based on his [[Powermaster]] incarnation, but appears to have been canceled.

{{canceledtoy}}
{{-}}

==First 4 Figures==
[[Image:SnakeEyes_OptimusPrime_statue.jpg|thumb|right|150px|]]
*'''Snake-Eyes & Optimus Prime Statue''' (2007)

:[[First 4 Figures]] produced a statue based on the cover of [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 1|issue 1]] of ''[[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers]]'', featuring an Optimus Prime in the [[Cobra]] HISS tank body he used in that series. Prime is an 8-inch tall one-armed bust, and ''[[G.I. Joe (franchise)|G.I. Joe]]''<nowiki>'s</nowiki> resident ninja [[Snake-Eyes]] stands battle-ready in his open palm.

{{-}}
[[Image:StormShadow_OptimusPrime_statue.jpg|thumb|150px|right|]]
* '''Storm Shadow & Optimus Prime Statue''' (2007)

: First 4 Figures's second ''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers'' statue is 7.5 inches tall and is based on the cover of [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 5|issue 5]]. This one depicts [[Cobra]]'s own ninja, [[Storm Shadow]], taking a stance above Optimus Prime's damaged head. The statue was limited to 1000 samples.

{{-}}

==Transformers (2007)==
*'''Optimash Prime''' (2007)
{{main|Optimash Prime}}
{{-}}
[[Image:Softimus Prime.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Freedom is the right of all sentient beings... in bed.]]
*'''Softimus Prime''' (2007)

:Softimus Prime is, as his name suggests, a plush G1 Optimus Prime toy. Obviously, he has no problems with articulation and passes the drop test with flying colors. His main draw is the ability to "transform" into his Freightliner FL86 vehicle mode by turning the plush toy inside out, his transformation roughly similar to the Powermaster cab Prime's. He features Movie-style faction symbols on his right arm and both sides of his cab mode. He is love.

{{-}}
==Robot Heroes==
[[Image:RH_Optimus_vs_Ravage.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Mini-Me!]]
*'''Optimus Prime Vs Ravage''' (2007)

: Packed with [[Ravage (G1)/toys|Ravage]], Optimus Prime is one of the first figures in the Transformers segment of the ''Heroes'' franchise. As with all ''Heroes'' figures, Optimus Prime is a simple, yet well-detailed two-inch tall figurine with exaggerated, cartoony proportions. He is sculpted holding his Ion Blaster rifle in his right fist and his left arm in a pointing pose. He is also love, and demands that you pull his [[More than Meets the Eye, Part 3#Notes|Finger of Doom]].

: This version of Optimus was later also released as part of a set with a 100-piece [[jigsaw puzzle]].

[[Image:Robot_Hero_Supermetal_Optimus_Prime.jpg|right|thumb|100px|Cuteness is the right of all sentient beings.]]
*'''Decepticon Sneak Attack''' (2007)

: "Supermetal Finish" Optimus Prime is a special shiny [[redeco]] of the previous Robot Hero. He came in a Wal-Mart exclusive multipack also including "Hologram" [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]], [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]], "Supermetal Finish" [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]].

{{-}}

[[Image:RH_Prime_vs_Unicron.jpg|right|thumb|150px|'Til all are cute.]]
*'''Optimus Prime Vs Unicron''' (2007)

: Packed with [[Unicron]], a second SD Optimus Prime for the Transformers segment of the ''Heroes'' franchise. This version of the Chibimus Prime has him opening the Matrix of Leadership to shine the Autobots' darkest hour. Better him than [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus]].

{{-}}

==Attacktix==

*'''Optimus Prime''' (Starter Set, 2007)
[[Image:Attacktix_Optimus_Prime.jpg|right|thumb|He shoots sideways. The direction, not [[Sideways (RID)|the character]].]]
{{attacktix
|ID=TF2-19
|faction=Autobot
|class=Leader
|special=Last Stand - 13/26 (50%) success ratio
|cost=40
|speed=6
|attacktype=Shooter (Force Blast)
}}
{{-}}
:Optimus Prime will shoot you down. He was released as part of the 2007 Starter Set along with ''[[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]]'' [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], ''[[Energon (franchise)|Energon]]'' [[Landquake (Energon)|Landquake]]) and ''[[Cybertron (franchise)|Cybertron]]'' [[Skywarp (Armada)|Skywarp]].

:Optimus' Last Stand special allows him to stand up if he's the only figure in your team left in play. If you're down to two men you might even be tempted to shoot your own man just to keep Optimus Prime in play. Don't though. [[Peter Cullen]] wouldn't approve.

:Sadly you can't bring him into play with the ''Cybertron'' [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Super Optimus Prime]] vehicle mode because he's not ''Super'' Optimus Prime.
{{-}}
==Revoltech==
[[Image:Revoltech_Convoy.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Windowbra!]]
*'''Convoy''' (2007)
**''Series number:'' '''019'''
**''Accessories:'' Ion blaster, Autobot Matrix of Leadership, two clenched fists, gun-wielding right hand, pointing right hand, open left hand

:A non-transforming but ''highly'' articulated Optimus Prime action figure(ine), ''[[Revoltech]]'' Convoy uses the ''Revoltech'' "revolver joints" for maximum poseability. Prime comes with his now-standard ion blaster and Matrix of Leadership accessories, as well as a few alternate hands; while one of the hands is specifically designed to grip the ion blaster, he can't really do anything dramatic with the Matrix, and it just sort of sits in his open-palmed left hand. His sculpting is explicitly in the style of [[Pat Lee|Pat "serfdom" Lee]]'s interpretation of Prime, but due to physical constraints has no lack of perspective.

:Unsurprisingly, this mold was redecoed to create ''Revoltech'' [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/toys|Ultra Magnus]]. Magnus comes with a new hand mold that can be used to connect him and Prime together in a handshake.

{{--}}

==Mighty Muggs==
[[Image:MightyMuggs_OptimusPrime.jpg|right|thumb|175px|Optimus lost his ears in the rock tumbler.]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (2009)
:''Accessories:'' Ion rifle

: This [[super-deformed]], non-transformable Optimus Prime figure uses the standard [[Mighty Muggs]] body template, with swivel joints in his neck and limbs. He comes with a similarly super-deformed version of his ion rifle.

{{-}}

[[Image:MightyMuggs_MetallicOptimusPrime.jpg|right|thumb|175px|Optimus, did you polish your head in the Shine-O Ball-O?]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (2009)
**''Accessories:'' Ion rifle

: An [[exclusive]] to the [http://www.comic-con.org/cci/ 2009 San Diego Comic-Con], this Optimus Prime Mugg has a shiny metallic finish.

{{-}}

==Transformers Wacky Wobblers==
[[Image:WackyWobblers_G1OptimusPrime.jpg|thumb|right|150px|]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (2009)

: This Optimus Prime [[wikipedia:Bobblehead|bobblehead]] is part of the popular ''[[Wacky Wobblers]]'' line produced by [[wikipedia:Funko|Funko]]. Aside from the standard-issue big wobbling head, he features a ion rifle molded onto his right hand and his arms swivel at the shoulders. Optimus is affixed to a base with his name on it.
{{-}}

==USB-Powered Speaker Head==
*'''Optimus Prime USB-Powered Speaker Head'''
[[Image:G1-optimusprime-merc-speaker.jpg|thumb|right|180px|]]
: As a 6.5" figure, Optimus Prime's head is built-in with [[Wikipedia:Universal Serial Bus|USB]]-powered speakers. There are two speaker inside each side of Optimus Prime's head. The control panel, USB port, and earphone port is locate in the back of the head. Under the neck, there is a display to support the head.
: The speaker is redecoed to create Ultra Magnus Speaker.
{{-}}

==Transformers Backpacks==
*'''Optimus Prime''' (2009)

:Made by [[Fab Starpoint]], these backpacks are allegedly "engineered for style, safety, comfort... and saving the Universe!" The Generation 1 Optimus Prime design features a stock silhouette of Optimus Prime surrounded by stars, like the [[Paramount Pictures]] logo, while on the lower compartment there is a gigantic Autobot sigil.
{{comingsoontoy}}
{{-}}

[[Category: Attacktix]]
[[Category: Autobots]]
[[Category: Autobot leaders]]
[[Category: Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category: MyClone]]
[[Category: Robot Heroes]]
[[Category: Robot Masters characters]]
[[Category: Titanium Series]]

File:DST SDCCToonPrimeBust.jpg

2010-11-16T00:43:03Z

MrBlud:

File:DST08 FinalBattlePrimeBust.jpg

2010-11-16T00:30:22Z

MrBlud:

Sunstorm (G1)

2010-11-15T23:20:16Z

MrBlud: /* Diamond Select */

{{disambig3|Sunstorm}}
{{factions|decepticon}}
:''Sunstorm is a [[Decepticon]] from the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:G1Sunstorm-Yoshioka.jpg|right|thumb|300px|''"I like to sing-a / about the moon-a and the june-a and the spring-a..."'']]

If bright colors are nature's way of saying "do not touch", then nature's got nothin' on '''Sunstorm'''. Come too close, and circuits will short, steel housing will begin to melt, and psyches will break as the mind struggles to comprehend. Science would explain that his body is aflame in radiation, but Sunstorm has different ideas.

Sometimes, Sunstorm merely believes he is secretly some kind of supernatural being, keeping his comrades away with his odd behavior. At other times, he thinks that he is the living embodiment of the Will of [[Primus]], placed by the divine in this universe to deal righteous judgment on the blasphemous. Occasionally, he just hovers silently in the background and shoots at things.

Such is life.

==Fiction==
===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====''The Transformers'' cartoon====
[[Image:Sunstorm Cartoon.jpg|thumb|200px|Hey mom, I'm on TV!]]
Sunstorm was one of the Decepticon jets on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] four million years ago. He shot at the [[Autobot]]s [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] and [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] when they came near, and that's about it. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 1}}

{{-}}

====e-Hobby pack-in comic====

On [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], as a new morning began to rise, Sunstorm appeared to bask in the rays of the sun. He enthusiastically encouraged all those around him to wake up and take a good look at the beauty of a new dawn. Unfortunately, all those around him were dead [[Autobot]]s whom he had just killed. {{storylink|Decepticon Aerospace Warrior Sunstorm}}

===Dreamwave comics continuity===
[[Image:BlackSunshine-SunstormStarscream.jpg|right|thumb|300px|And thus, Starscream was rendered sterile.]]
[[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave's]] experiments to fit a solar-powered fusion reactor into cloned Decepticon warriors reached their fruition in Sunstorm, a clone of the treacherous [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]. Sunstorm's structure has been augmented to endure the enormous stresses involved. He was the perfect soldier; he possessed the ability to manipulate electromagnetic energy, enhanced regenerative capabilities, and a blank slate of a mind waiting to be written according to Shockwave's design.

When the Autobots took [[New Iacon]] from Shockwave, he hurriedly uploaded the compressed contents of the supercomputer [[Vector Sigma]] to multiple locations, including the hidden cloning lab near the [[Quadrant Epsilon|Epsilon]] border where Sunstorm lay, awaiting instructions. The upload overwhelmed the lab's mainframe, spilling over into the only other available receptacle—Sunstorm. {{storylink|War and Peace}}

Fleeing the fall of New Iacon, Decepticons [[Runabout]] and [[Runamuck (G1)|Runamuck]] broke into the Epsilon lab, unaware of its importance, intending to use it as a safehouse. After Runamuck amused himself by frying the lab's [[Mini-spy]] attendant, the duo accidentally awakened Sunstorm, who fried them... rather badly before his scrambled programming compelled him to depart, making his way to Earth. {{storylink|Night of the Combaticons}}

[[Image:Atonement-SunstormJAccuse.jpg|left|thumb|250px|J'accuse!]]

{{bigquote|'''Who am I?''' I am the presence anointed to carry forth the '''light.''' The '''original''' light, that which has '''no''' beginning and no end. '''Its''' searing heat shall '''purify''' the earth... purging this world of all flaws, and preparing it for '''what''' lies ahead.|Sunstorm emphasizes randomly|"[[Black Sunshine]]"}}

Flying down to [[Earth]], he tried to get Starscream to join him in his crusade, though Starscream believed his clone to be completely insane. {{storylink|Black Sunshine}} Sunstorm battled with a number of Autobots, including [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]], eventually uncovering an enormous well of energy deep below the ocean, sealed with a mechanical door bearing a Cybertronian symbol. [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] and Bumblebee fought to stop him from unleashing whatever power the well held, until Jetfire, sensing that Sunstorm's internal fusion reactor was growing increasingly unstable, flew the overzealous seeker into orbit. Sunstorm's reactor went critical and exploded violently, completely obliterating both of them. {{storylink|Atonement}}

Sunstorm's almost supernatural durability was credited to his augmented molecular structure, similar to that of electrum. When [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet's]] Energy Siphon suppressed the effect, he was eaten away from within by the destructive energies of his own power source.
{{-}}

===3H comic continuity===
[[Image:Sunstorm.jpg|thumb|right|150px|His own [[Sunstorm (Universe)|worst enemy]].]]
An alternate-universe version of Sunstorm was one of [[Megazarak (Universe)|Megazarak]]'s loyal inner circle. <ref>Megazarak's bio in ''[[OTFCC: Official Convention Souvenir Guide]]''</ref> His radioactive condition was the result of an accident at the manufacturing facility during his birth. He was apparently a [[Child of Primus]],<ref>Sunstorm's [[bio]] in''[[The Official Transformers Collectors' Club Magazine issue 1]]''</ref> though it is not known if or how he participated in the [[Universe war]]. A [[Minion of Unicron]] named [[Sunstorm (Universe)|Sunstorm]] ''did'' appear in that conflict, but there is no indication that they are the same individual. {{storylink|OTFCC 2004 Live-Action Script Reading}}

{{-}}
===IDW comics continuity===
[[Image:IDWTF7-SunstormAcidstorm.jpg|left|thumb|300px|*sigh* I'll never get this Masterpiece toy.]]
Three years after Megatron was defeated on [[Earth]], Sunstorm was among those Decepticons who managed to escape the human homeworld and was now under the command of the (self-proclaimed) Decepticon leader [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]. However, with the lack of resources, poor morale and Starscream's weak leadership, the Decepticons largely collapsed into anarchy and resorted to cannibalism with not enough [[Energon (fuel)|energon]] to go around. After another pointless patrol, [[Acid Storm]] and Sunstorm dejectedly sat in front of what remained of the ship that carried them to the asteroid that they now called home. {{Storylink|The Transformers issue 7}}

{{-}}
==Games==
===''Revenge of the Fallen'' - The Game (Xbox 360/Sony PS3/PC)===
[[Image:ROTF_360PS3PC_G1Sunstorm_DLC.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
:''Voice actor:'' [[Charlie Adler]]

While Sunstorm seems to lack his atomic touch and pure insanity, he does have a pair of kickass flamethrowers! {{storylink|Revenge of the Fallen (Xbox 360/PS3/PC)|Revenge of the Fallen}}

{{Note|On [[August 27]], [[2009]], Sunstorm was one of a handful of downloadable characters in a downloadable content pack for Xbox 360 and Sony Playstation 3. He could be used in multiplayer games and as an alternate model/colour scheme for [[Starscream (Movie)|Starscream]] in the single player Decepticon campaign.}}

{{-}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
[[Image:SunstormToy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Creamsicle creamseeker.]]
* '''Sunstorm''' (Decepticon Jet, 2003, 2008)
**''Japanese ID number'': '''89'''
**''Accessories'': 2 missile launchers, 2 rifle-missiles, 2 rockets, left & right fists, left & right wings, left & right tail-wings, landing gear

: Sold only in a separately-packaged-toys set with [[Hauler|RoadHauler]] [[exclusive]] to [[e-Hobby]], Sunstorm is a [[redeco]] of the original [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] toy, transforming into an F-15 fighter jet. His coloration is inspired by—but not wholly accurate to for a variety of reasons—a previously-unnamed "generic" Decepticon seen in the episode "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]". Being a Japanese release, his spring-loaded missile launchers are fully operational.

: Sunstorm was released again in 2008 as part of the "[[Encore]]" re-release line, but this time with an exclusive comic by [[Hidetsugu Yoshioka]].

: The same base mold is used by [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]], [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]], [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]], [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]], and [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2003/Destron/Sunstorm/sunstorm.htm More information on Sunstorm at TFU.info]
{{-}}

===Titanium Series===
[[Image:TitaniumSeries-Sunstorm.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Hey, remember that body I never had in that comic I wasn't in? Well, now you can buy it!]]
*'''Sunstorm''' (6-inch Cybertron Heroes, 2007)
**''Accessories'': Stand, name placard

: ''[[Titanium Series]]'' Sunstorm is a redeco of "[[War Within]]" [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]], transforming into a Cybertronian "tetrajet" as reimagined by [[Don Figueroa]]. As with all 6-inch ''Titanium Series'' Cybertron Heroes, he has large portions of his body constructed with fully-painted [[die-cast]] metal.

: This mold was also used to make War Within Starscream, [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] and [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2007/Decepticon/TitSunstorm/sunstorm.htm More information on Titanium Sunstorm at TFU.info]''
{{--}}

==Merchandise==
===Heroes of Cybertron===
[[Image:HOC Sunstorm.jpg|right|thumb|200px|This will put your kids through college!]]
*'''Sunstorm''' (OTFCC 2004 attendance freebie)

:A ''[[Heroes of Cybertron]]'' version of Sunstorm was given as a freebie to people who pre-registered at [[OTFCC 2003]] for next year's [[OTFCC 2004]]. He was later made available for sale through the [[3H Productions]] website. A [[repaint]] of the mold used to make Starscream and the other [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]] in the ''Heroes of Cybertron'' line, Sunstorm's colors are inspired by the e-Hobby toy, but given more variety in its shades of orange.
{{-}}

===Palisades===
* '''Sunstorm''' (Palisades, 2005)

[[Image:PalisadesSunstorm.jpg|thumb|200px]]

:A ''Previews''-exclusive redeco of the Starscream statue, Sunstorm is a six inch tall statue with articulated head and arms. He can stand normally or use a stand to take on a "hovering" pose. Sunstorm was limited to 300 pieces, and sculpted by [[3L Creation Group]] from a design by [[George Tremarco]].[http://web.archive.org/web/20050407011030/http://toychest.diamondcomics.com/toys/12_04/14_tf_sunstorm.htm]
{{-}}

===Diamond Select===
[[Image:DiamondSelectSunstormbust.jpg|right|thumb|200px|]]
* '''Sunstorm''' (Diamond Select, 2010)
:Sunstorm was planned to be a repainted and slightly-altered version of the Starscream bust sculpted by [[Mark Wong]] of [[Art Asylum]]. Along with a new head and a differently-posed left hand, Sunstorm was going to be limited to 600 pieces.

{{canceledtoy}}
{{-}}

==Notes==
[[Image:StudioOxCybertronBattleCons.jpg|thumb|250px|Look just above <strike>Astro Magnum</strike> <strike>Galactic Man</strike> grey [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]'s gun-arm.]]
*An orange Cybertronic "pyramid jet" is depicted in a Cybertronian battle scene by [[Studio Ox]] that appeared in ''[[TV Magazine]]'' (and was reprinted in ''[[Transformers Generations]]'' and ''[[Transformers Visualworks]]''). Hmm. You don't think...?
* A common piece of [[fanon]] identified the all-yellow [[Rainmaker]] as the partially yellow Sunstorm. However, even taking into consideration the haphazard coloring typically given to generic Seekers, chances were not in favour of their being the same guy. After being asked the question during the August 2010 Q&A, Hasbro confirmed that the yellow Rainmaker was not Sunstorm, but some as-yet-unnamed guy.<ref>[http://www.asmzine.com/geekly-rewind/2010/07/26/hasbro-transformers-qa-july-2010-answers August 2010 Q&A on ASMzine:] ''"When the right opportunities arise, the other Seekers seen in the original television series such as Acid Storm have been named and given official backgrounds. Unfortunately, not every character that has appeared on screen has made the transition into other forms of media or even product. Because of this fact, there has been no official backgrounds created for these characters."''</ref>
* [[Hirofumi Ichikawa]], who both named Sunstorm and wrote his original bio, also considered the names Flareburst and Flarestorm for him.<ref>[http://groups.google.com/group/alt.toys.transformers/msg/43df7ba151f7a1b3 Doug Dlin reporting personal communications with Ichikawa], [[alt.toys.transformers]]</ref>
*Sunstorm is apparently a fan of professional wrestling, having performed both a Stone Cold Stunner and DDT when engaging in close combat with Jetfire.

==External Links==
*[http://www.ntfa.net/universe/english/index.php?act=view&char=Sunstorm Sunstorm's OTTC profile at NFTA.net]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category: Children of Primus]]
[[Category: Clones]]
[[Category: Decepticons]]
[[Category: E-Hobby]]
[[Category: Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category: Revenge of the Fallen characters]]
[[Category: Seekers]]
[[Category: Titanium Series]]
[[Category: Universe characters]]

MediaWiki talk:Community Portal

2010-07-09T02:43:55Z

MrBlud: /* The Debate, part the fourth, wherein Jackpot attempts to synthesize the feedback from above */

__NEWSECTIONLINK__

This is the place for discussion of topics that affect the entire wiki. Some topics that would ordinarily be here have merited their own pages:

{{chapters|title=Specific Discussion Subjects|align=left|content=
<div class="list-header">'''Moving From Wikia:'''</div>
* [[Transformers Wiki talk:Community Portal/Arriving|Arriving]]
* [[Transformers Wiki talk:Community Portal/Leaving|Leaving]]
* [[Transformers Wiki:Community Portal/Complaints|Complaints]]
 <div class="list-header">'''New Ad Policy:'''</div>
* [[Transformers Wiki:Ads|Ads]]
 <div class="list-header">'''Bookworm Database-Crash:'''</div>
* [[Transformers Wiki talk:Community Portal/Damage Control Central|Damage Control Central]]
* [[Project:Bookworm Crash]]
* [[Transformers Wiki talk:Community Portal/Leaving2|Leaving Take 2]]
 <div class="list-header">'''Server Move:'''</div>
* [[Transformers Wiki talk:Community Portal/Arriving2|Arriving Take 2]]
 <div class="list-header">'''Relicensing:'''</div>
* [[Transformers Wiki talk:Community Portal/Relicensing|Relicensing]]
 <div class="list-header">'''Dealing With Vandalism:'''</div>
* [[Transformers Wiki talk:Community Portal/Vandalism|Vandalism]]
 <div class="list-header">'''GoBots Sister Wiki:'''</div>
* [[Transformers Wiki talk:Community Portal/GoBots|Discussion on the place of GoBots in this wiki]]
}} 

{{:{{FULLPAGENAMEE}}/Archive}}


== Home Video sections are lacking ==
I looked up the DVD and Home Video content on Wookiepedia, Memory Alpha, Lostpedia, and even the 24 Wiki and they all brought up pages with tons of info, all neatly organized and categorized. But for this Wiki, searches turn up little and the only way I could find home video content effectively is through the "Category:Home Video" page, and even then it was - sorry to say - A Mess! Why is a wiki as large as this one so inadequate in this regard? If this wiki doesn't have it right, then shouldn't it be fixed by modeling the home video sections after the wikis that have it done right? Most of the content is already here, it just needs to be better organized. {{unsigned|4.254.83.255}}
:Er, I don't know what you mean, exactly, considering that our home video sections look perfectly fine to me. See: [[Transformers_Animated_(cartoon)#Home video releases]], [[The Transformers (cartoon)#DVD releases]], [[Revenge of the Fallen DVD field guide]], [[Robots in Disguise (cartoon)#DVD releases]], etc. I don't know what more you could want; for any series you want to know DVD info about, the info is likely available on that series' page.
:Either that, or you're perhaps not realizing the difference in how the TF series work. Instead of something like Trek where the different series are all in a ''single'' universe and storyline, there's somewhere around 16 DVD-able Transformers things, all of which are in multiple ''different'' universes and storylines.
:As such, IMHO it makes far more sense for us to group our home video by those separate series, rather than all together. I think most TF fans are only going to be interested in what DVDs are available for their specific favorite series/universe, rather than wanting to see every single DVD at once for everything.
:Not that a comprehensive DVD list might not still be a useful project, mind you. Just saying that IMHO we're far from unorganized or a mess if we don't have one. We just have different organizing needs because of the unique way the TF series themselves are organized. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 08:38, 7 March 2010 (EST)
::Agreed on all counts. I'd need to know what the previous poster was actually looking for to understand what improvements they're wanting.
::It ''could'' be this is another symptom of us not having any sort of "Transformers primer", as we discussed ages ago. Maybe time to revisit that idea?
::(I went onto Wookiepedia looking for some ideas, but got distracted by the absurdly long and reaching list of "References to the original trilogy" on the ''Attack of the Clones'' page. If that list were here, I'd take a weedwhacker to it.) -- [[User:Repowers|Repowers]] 09:21, 7 March 2010 (EST)
:::I like the idea of a Transformers primer, explaining the odd franchise and reboot and "multiple characters with the same name" nature of the deal. Pages like [[continuity]], [[canon]], and [[continuity family]] cover some of the info that might go on such a thing, but they're still a bit too "techy" for the casual reader, I think. Something that covers similar info but in a more accessible way might be very useful. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 10:13, 7 March 2010 (EST)
::::I'd be all for a ''Transformers 101'' type page. A simple concise "These are Transformers, they come from Cybertron, there are Autobots and Decepticons (generally) fighting a big war (generally) over control of resources. Usually there's an Optimus and a Megatron (or the nearest local equivalent), a kid-friendly character and a conniving evil second-in-command, but beyond that, it's a weird-ass multiverse. Why are all the different incarnations of TF so different, yet so similar? [[To sell toys|Duh.]] [[User:Hooper X|-hx]] 10:22, 7 March 2010 (EST)
:I will say that I think we need to be better about making sure individual episode/comic pages include all the relevant home-video/trade-paperback compilations one can find said individual episodes on... and I am a firm believer that each home video/compilation needs its own page. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 13:49, 7 March 2010 (EST)

I should have known I was stirring up a hornet's nest when I posted that yesterday. This started with my searching for old VHS releases of transformers on Amazon.com. I then figured I'd check it out on this wiki, but amazingly searching for VHS, DVD, and Blu-ray turned up nothing. (I even considered that it was the browser I was using. It's not.) "Home video" turned up pages for the series and their home video sections, but not a comprehensive listing with links (to the home video sections). There are some great guides to home video for the live-action films, and the home video category lists companies, but I just found it a bit frustrating that it required so much digging to find what I was looking for. Other wiki's do have pages dedicated to just DVD (Though I have exaggerated their organization.), and in the case of Memory Alpha templates that direct one to the releases. Granted, nothing's perfect and those other wiki's maybe only succeed over this one in that I was able to find what I was looking for fast. But content that can't be found might as well not be there. Out of frustration I finally just thought "This is a mess!" and posted the above.

Go ahead and say everything's fine. The content ''is'' there all well done when you do find it, even if it was difficult to come by (Why, for instance, does the home video category not provide links to the home video sections for each series and movie? Would putting all those article in the home video category be inappropriate? Maybe, but without something like that, the category didn't help much for my search.), and maybe this is more a criticism of the failings of the search engine behind the box on the left of each page. But my difficulty in finding what I was looking for happened, and I suspect it goes on all the time with other casual searches: "Lemme see what DVD releases there are for transformers." [types DVD, hits 'enter'] "Nothing?! Oh well..."
:Ah, I see the problem. DVD, VHS, and Blu-ray are all three-letter terms (or made up of three-letter terms with dashes), and the wiki software always returns no results for search terms with three letters or less.
:The problem is that (most) every other wiki only has one universe to worry about, while we have multiple universes. So it makes perfect sense for someplace like Memory Alpha to have all of the videos together, because the series are all sequels to each other.
:Whereas for us, there's little reason to have, say, the Robots in Disguise videos and the Animated videos together, because they're two series that have nothing to do with each other. Instead, we have home video listings on the series pages, because it's far more likely someone's going to want to know if RID specifically has videos, or Animated specifically has videos, etc.
:As such, putting the entire cartoon series pages into the Home Video category when only a single section contains info related to that category is odd. ''However'', I do think maybe we could fake it using redirects. For instance, "Transformers Animated home video releases" that redirects to "Transformers Animated (cartoon)#Home video releases", etc. Then we'd put the redirect in the category.
:We could also make it so that terms like "VHS", "DVD", and "Blu-ray" all redirect to "Category:Home Video" to get around the three-letter search terms problems. (Er, can you ''have'' redirects point to categories?) --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 16:07, 7 March 2010 (EST)
::Maybe part of the problem is that [[:Category:Home video]] mostly lists companies that put out TF on DVD. All well and good if you know Kid Rhino and Shout! Factory put out G1, but if you don't, how do you know where to go for G1 DVD info. We have [[Revenge of the Fallen DVD field guide]] and [[Transformers Animated (cartoon)/DVD]]. Perhaps we just need that for each series, and then maybe a central page to tie them together? --[[User:Abates|abates]] 16:18, 7 March 2010 (EST)
:::I was just going to add an addendum that if we go the route of creating categorized redirects to all of our series-specific sections, we could create a couple subcategories to separate the companies from the actual release areas. We also should probably stick the DVD covers subcategories in their own umbrella "Covers" subcategory.
:::I'm not sure we really need a central page, so much as making the individual sections all available and easier to get to in the Home Video category, and making terms like "DVD" redirect to that category.--[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 16:22, 7 March 2010 (EST)
::::I don't see the harm in having something at each of those namespaces, but given my druthers I'd make each of them in the format of a disambiguation page.--[[User:Rosicrucian|Rosicrucian]][[User Talk:Rosicrucian|Talk]] 18:25, 7 March 2010 (EST)
:::::If I'm following you correctly, you're suggesting to make pages for DVD, VHS, etc. and have them be disambiguation pages? That's not a bad idea at all. I think we should definitely have an actual main page for Generation 1 video releases and perhaps the same for Beast Wars. Adding links to the nav templates for video releases (whatever is chosen as the 'central page' for that franchise) would probably be a good idea too. --[[User:Tigerpaw28|Tigerpaw28]] 01:55, 12 March 2010 (EST)

I've been planning to make a central "hub" page since I started doing the home video stuff, and to have releases listed on episode pages (like I did at the bottom of [[The Transformers: The Movie promo]]), but I was waiting until I'd finished all the company pages so I could add everything together in one go rather than a load of little edits. I guess I took too long doing that, though, and the punters are getting restless. We've got enough info to make it worth starting now anyway, so I'll bump it up on my to-do list. - [[User:Magnus Maximus|Magnus Maximus]] 03:38, 12 March 2010 (EST)
:Well, I was thinking something like the [[series]] page with links to everything, but I can't make that work without it becoming overly long and complicated. Instead I've gone with a simple disambig thing as suggested above, as well as the redirects and cat sorting that Jeysie mentioned. Thoughts so far? - [[User:Magnus Maximus|Magnus Maximus]] 08:10, 13 March 2010 (EST)

== Toyline list formatting ==
I was looking through various toyline pages to get an idea of how to format the list of toys for the [[Beast Wars Metals (toyline)]] page that I created and the one I'd like to create for the [[Beast Wars (Japanese franchise)|Japanese Beast Wars]] toyline, and noticed an inconsistency in the way the toylists are done. Specifically, with whether alt-modes should be listed by the name of the toy. Beast Wars, Neo, Beast Machines, Armada and Energon include alt-modes, while G1, G2, Beast Wars II, RID, Cybertron, and ROTF do not. Movie 2007 has it for some but not all. Is having alt-modes in the lists something that we desire? --[[User:Tigerpaw28|Tigerpaw28]] 01:55, 12 March 2010 (EST)

==Caption location==
I find the way captions are currently placed at the rightt ugly, in particular if the caption is very short. It only looks decent when it is a piece of a conversation. So, is it possible to alter the coding so that caption gets placed in the center? I think that will look a lot better. [[User:Geewunling|Geewunling]] 08:52, 16 March 2010 (EDT)
:Uhhh...I'm not sure what you mean. Captions are placed in the LEFT of the boxes. Images are often at the right of the page, but not always. [[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 09:54, 16 March 2010 (EDT)
::Okay, so I have a problem telling left and right apart. ^^* Left then - the captions look ugly placed all too the ''left''. [[User:Geewunling|Geewunling]] 10:09, 16 March 2010 (EDT)
:::Isn't left alignment of text associated with images standard in all forms of publication? That's the way I've always seen such things in books and magazines.[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 12:02, 16 March 2010 (EDT)
: Centering would look terrible. --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 12:23, 16 March 2010 (EDT)

== Disambig3 of ordinary name ==

I think it is fine to put [[Template:Disambig3|Disambig3]] of ordinary names such as "[[David (disambiguation)|David]]", "[[Jim (disambiguation)|Jim]]", or "[[Bill (disambiguation)|Bill]]" on certain pages, since these names are names instead of generic words like "[[Special:PrefixIndex/Star|Star]]",[[Special:PrefixIndex/Thunder|Thunder]]", "[[Special:PrefixIndex/Sky|Sky]]", or "[[Special:PrefixIndex/Jet|Jet]]".

See, we won't call [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] or [[Thunderblast (Decepticon)|Thunderblast]] just "Thunder" (unless here comes an official nickname some day). But it is natural/normal to call David Kaye "David" (for example). Or, it's normal to call [[Optimus Prime (disambiguation)|Optimus Prime]] just "[[Optimus (disambiguation)|Optimus]]".

So, in my opinion, it is okay to leave put disambig3 of ordinary names on those pages. --'''[[User:TX55|TX55]]'''''[[User talk:TX55|TALK]]'' 23:52, 16 March 2010 (EDT)
:Is there some kind of consensus for this, or is it going to lead to a huge edit war where different users like FortMAx and Interrobang (to pick a couple random editors) clog up recent changes alternately addign and removing disambigs without marking them as minor for filterng purposes? --[[User:G1MarvelBlaster|G1MarvelBlaster]] 01:55, 17 March 2010 (EDT)

::Current consensus is that we put disambiguation on for first and/or last name. We haven't had any discussion about removing the disambig3s. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 20:08, 17 March 2010 (EDT)

== IP Range Blocking ==

As of this writing, within the past several hours, we've had a dozen edits from what appears to be one anonymous editor, sent from several IPs in the 64.112.16 range and one in 64.112.17 range. All have been attempts to add Japanese names to the ''TF Animated'' cast prematurely. I've blocked one of the addresses (infinitely, more for abusing multiple accounts than anything else), so any subsequent ones should also be blocked, but will this block other IPs he's already used? And if not, could someone point me to the process for handling this? Or is this something a super-admin has to handle?--[[User:Apcog|Apcog]] 22:21, 23 March 2010 (EDT)
:The IP addresses he's been editing from are AOL's proxy, which uses a random IP from their range for each access, so he's not changing IP addresses intentionally. Blocking all of the IP addresses he could potentially use would mean blocking AOL in its entirety. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 22:36, 23 March 2010 (EDT)
::And that's bad ''how''? --[[User:FortMax|FortMax]] 22:46, 23 March 2010 (EDT)
::So do I change his block to temporary instead of permanent? I'm not sure if a brief spate of premature Japanese name inclusion merits an infinite block in and of itself. Or do we hope this teaches him a lesson and that he registers if he wants to keep contributing?--[[User:Apcog|Apcog]] 23:16, 23 March 2010 (EDT)
:::Every time he load or edits a page, he does so from a different IP address, so the ban on just one of the IP addresses won't make a difference - he'll never see that he's been banned. With AOL, it's either a blanket ban on the IP range, or semi-protecting the articles being attacked. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 23:27, 23 March 2010 (EDT)
::::The problem with AOL is that they have effin' huge IP ranges, they don't send X-Forwarded-For headers by default, and approximately ten umptillion people use it, which means we'd be blocking hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of people.
::::Semi-protect the pages. --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 02:38, 24 March 2010 (EDT)
:::::Ditto on semi-protect. --[[User:Lonegamer78|Lonegamer78]] 03:32, 24 March 2010 (EDT)
::::::Yeah, I looked up a Wikipedia talk page on how to deal with AOL vandals, and they came to the same conclusion - better to semi-protect the pages than block 5 million people. If the AOL person comes back and tries it again, we should semi-protect the pages. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 04:09, 24 March 2010 (EDT)
:::::::Works for me. If I'm here the next time he tries something, I'll semi-protect as many ''Animated'' character pages as I can in one go.--[[User:Apcog|Apcog]] 13:19, 24 March 2010 (EDT)

== Formatting Pet Peeves ==

So a thread on the Allspark made me want to bicker about a few annoying pet peeve things I see people doing here on the Wiki.

'''Double-spacing between sentences.'''

Folks... these are ''web pages''. Double spaces ''don't show up'' on the display unless you use the HTML code that forces one (and please, for the love of humanity, don't). Now, putting double spaces before inline templates like storylinks does make sense, because it lets you pick them apart from the actual text while editing, but double-spacing sentences just does nothing even from that standpoint. And over the number of pages we have, it can add up space-wise.

'''Putting line returns between list items.'''

When you put list items together like this:

<pre>*List item one
*List item two
*List item three</pre>

You get this in the code:

<pre><ul>
<li>List item one</li>
<li>List item two</li>
<li>List item three</li>
</ul></pre>

See? Nice correct ''single'' list. Now, what happens when you do this instead?

<pre>*List item one

*List item two

*List item three</pre>

Well, you get this:

<pre><ul>
<li>List item one</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>List item two</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>List item three</li>
</ul></pre>

Yes. Now instead of a list that should be a single being in, you know, ''one'' coded list, it's now in ''three'' coded lists. This is bad for a number of reasons.

If you want spacing between line items, put a blasted line of CSS in your personal CSS thingy that puts some there:

<pre>li {margin:.5em 0;}</pre>

In fact, even better, someone with admin access put that line in the wiki's main CSS like I've been trying to pester Derik to do for ages now. Boom, instant spacing without doing god-awful things to the HTML code.

'''The never-ending {{tl|-}} vs. {{tl|--}} debate.'''

Considering the whole reason the latter was created was to replace the former in those instances where the spacing was too large, having some folks constantly swapping the latter back to the former is annoying. And then there's the people who don't even bother to do the swap and just stack both together, which is just really stupid.

If what's making it not work is that it's:

<pre>{{--}}

Next Header</pre>

When it needs to be:

<pre>{{--}}
Next Header</pre>

Then, you know, fix the code.

And if the problem is that you're using an outdated browser, then either get with the times, or suck up and accept that you're using a terrible browser and stop messing things up for the rest of us.

Anyhoo. There's probably other stuff I'm forgetting, but for now, this is your Code Wench complaining about these issues. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 09:22, 28 March 2010 (EDT)

:Good call on
<pre>
* list

*list</pre>
:that was something I was unaware of but will look out for in future. While we're talking formatting, though, is it possible to remove the <pre>{{--}}</pre> (or similar) from the note template? When notes escape images it tends to screw up the page a bit --[[User:Emvee|Emvee]] 16:43, 30 March 2010 (EDT)
::The problem is that if we don't, the note template is coded in such a way that it currently ends up overlapping part of the image frame and looking worse. Also:
::<pre>li + li {margin-top:.5em}</pre>
::Might be better for the list item spacing, as then you avoid affecting the spacing above and below the list, plus it will avoid messing up the articles where the list items have been spaced out, and they can be fixed at our leisure. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 17:20, 30 March 2010 (EDT)
:::That is indeed a better thought, although I don't recall off-hand if IE7 supports that type of selector or not. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 12:19, 31 March 2010 (EDT)
::::I just tested it in IE8 and... no dice. Oh well. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 14:55, 31 March 2010 (EDT)
:::::I'm confused, because [http://kimblim.dk/css-tests/selectors/ this page] says it's supported in IE7 and 8, but when I tried it in my copy of IE8, it didn't work. I may have to retest and see if it wasn't some minor syntactical error that was stopping it working. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 20:05, 31 March 2010 (EDT)
::::::I'm wondering if it's possibly a standards mode vs. quirks mode (or compatibility mode or whatever the heck they're calling it nowadays) sort of thing, as I know IE likes to pretend it doesn't support some things if it gets kicked into quirks mode. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 20:57, 31 March 2010 (EDT)
:::::::Aha, yes, it was a compatibility thing. I slapped a DOCTYPE on the top of my test page, and li+li started working! That seems like it would be the best solution to the problem of cramped lists. I can add it to common.css at some point, if everyone agrees. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 02:40, 1 April 2010 (EDT)
::::::::Having tested further, the solution needs more work. We probably do not want to have this spacing in ''all'' of the lists, because otherwise you get this: [http://www.aldenbates.com/spacedcharacters.jpg]. So I think to be viable, we need to limit it to Notes sections somehow. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 04:16, 1 April 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::Is it possible to reset the margin for lists that are in a table? TABLE LI {whatever the reset would be}. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 07:29, 1 April 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::Yes, however there are occasions where such lists occur outside boxes too. The [[More_than_Meets_the_Eye,_Part_1#Home_video_releases|Home Video stuff]] on the episode pages, lists of external links, the "these pages link to this image" list on the image pages, etc. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 07:38, 1 April 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::I don't see why some spacing on those kinds of lists too is a bad thing.
:::::::::::But you could always try something like H2+UL LI+LI, or just reduce the amount of space a little to .25em or such.
:::::::::::Or adapt what Derik did to limit the TFNA/TFU/YoJoe icons to only show up in the "External Links" sections:
<pre style="white-space:pre-wrap;">#bodyContent a[name='External_links'] + h2 + ul > li > a[href^="http://www.tfu.info"].external,
#bodyContent .tt1_external > a[href^="http://www.tfu.info"].external{
padding-right:61px;
background-image:url('http://tfwiki.net/w2/images2/7/75/Tfuinfo_icon.png');</pre>
:::::::::::--[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 08:45, 1 April 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::I tried doing the latter last night, but my CSS fu was not strong enough. The extra h3s in the way complicate things. Maybe Derik can have a crack on it when he's back on deck? --[[User:Abates|abates]] 17:20, 1 April 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::::Still haven't had the chance to really look at this yet, but I had a thought: Since we tend to frequently label our Notes sections in the same way, why not just add those labels as extra matching rules? That would cover a good chunk of the H3 issues. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 21:16, 4 April 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::::Could do, but there would be a bunch of them, and things like [[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1#Animation_or_technical_glitches|this]] where the lists are interrupted by paragraphs (I'm not sure why those aren't just H4s). --[[User:Abates|abates]] 21:28, 4 April 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::::::I don't really see it as a problem... since most of our existing lists would need the extra spaces edited out anyway after this, we can always standardize other things as well, as soon as we decided on one (semi-colons, H4s, whichever). In fact, working on standardizing our code when we can is a good thing in general anyway. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 21:43, 4 April 2010 (EDT)

:::::::::::::Having given this more thought: probably the safest way to do it would be to create a template similar to {{tl|columnlist}}. The disadvantage being that it would have applied to all of the lists where it was required. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 07:07, 2 April 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::::Considering the whole point was to get people to have the whitespace they wanted while still using the coding correctly, that's not really what I had in mind. Let me see if I can find some time to hack away at it, provided Derik doesn't show up first. Honestly, though, considering we don't have a lot of in-body non-table-contained lists, I'd be more inclined to just live with spacing on all of them. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 08:56, 2 April 2010 (EDT)

Hey, if we're moaning about formatting, I got one - is there any way to make the "note" template work with left-aligned pictures that doesn't result in a chunk'o whitespace? - [[User:Chris McFeely|Chris McFeely]] 07:28, 2 April 2010 (EDT)
:The image float is what makes it tricky, at least visually. Do you have an example handy I can look at? --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 08:56, 2 April 2010 (EDT)
::Sure, now that I'm looking, I can't find a truly annoying example of it, but here's a [[Optimus_Prime_%28G1%29#Hearts_of_Steel|for instance]]. If that picture was right-aligned, the note would snap up to right under the body text, but because the pic's on the left, it creates that whitespace. - [[User:Chris McFeely|Chris McFeely]] 09:16, 2 April 2010 (EDT)
:::OK, did some poking around.
:::Basically, there's a <tt>clear:left</tt> in the CSS for the Notes, and I discovered that the reason why is that you can get [http://miscfile.alienharmony.com/transformers/wiki-note-wonkyness.jpg this sort of icky visual] otherwise.
:::This could be fixed by removing the <tt>clear:left</tt> and then either putting the Note in a single-cell table or slapping a <tt>display:table</tt> on the CSS for it (which would be cleaner code-wise but may not work in IE or older browsers; I don't know off-hand), but I'm not sure what effect that might have on ''other'' text/image-wrapping situations. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 09:55, 2 April 2010 (EDT)

Still don't know why you can't get <nowiki>{{--}}</nowiki>. Reasoning that people on those browsers should "either get with the times, or suck up and accept that you're using a terrible browser and stop messing things up for the rest of us" or bulljive like that is idiotic, because unless they visit this specific subsection they won't be aware the stupid thing isn't working due to browser outdatedness. Plus, as a ressource, shouldn't we, I dunno, thrive to be as accessible to as many people as possible, regardless of browser choices? Surely working the code for <nowiki>{{--}}</nowiki> so it works on as many browsers as possible can't be that daunting a task? I mean, honestly now, it's just the same break as <nowiki>{{-}}</nowiki> but without the extra space at the end. --[[User:Detour|Detour]] 10:27, 8 April 2010 (EDT)
:I'm not Derik (obviously) but basically... what the {{tl|--}} does is put a "clear:both;" on the header following the template via this:
<pre>.tt1_clearall + a + h1,
.tt1_clearall + a + h2,
.tt1_clearall + a + h3,
.tt1_clearall + a + h4,
.tt1_clearall + a + h5,
.tt1_clearall + a + h6</pre>
:Which involves CSS selectors that older browsers can't handle because they weren't compliant with all of the standards. I think the only other way to handle this would be using javascript to alter the heading in question. Doable, I guess, but it seems like a waste of time to bother for the tiny handful of people who refuse to update to a standards-compliant browser. Whether Derik would feel differently or not, you'd have to ask him.
:There's a lot of newer HTML and CSS standards that help out both viewers and webmasters, that either can't be done with very old browsers or can only be replicated on them by fiddling with complex javascript code. You need to accept that people aren't going to keep from ever using anything new just to accommodate your personal choice to keep using a buggy and outdated browser, especially when you're in an increasingly tiny percentage. Doubly especially when it's something like this where the site is still usable even if it doesn't work.
:(Now, if you were using something like Lynx, which actually ''is'' standards-compliant for everything related to its pure-text methodology--and there are good reasons for choosing to surf sans images--''then'' I think you'd actually have a good case.) --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 11:00, 8 April 2010 (EDT)
::Hey, I'd love to switch over, but new versions of IE have complete clusterfucks instead of layouts, and while I ''can'' mess around with the layout on Firefox to make it match IE6, the inability to add Office, MSN and AIM shortcuts to the icons, as well as just how freaking ''paranoid'' it is when it comes to browsing, downloading, etc., just makes me very uninterested in using it on a regular basis. --[[User:Detour|Detour]] 11:41, 8 April 2010 (EDT)
:::Try using Opera. The button layout is drag-and-drop customizable to ridiculous degrees (my own setup basically looks nothing like the default setup), including being able to [http://operawiki.info/CustomButtons add custom buttons] and website buttons. Its tile-able tab setup and ability to save and quick-insert custom notes and retain form data with the "Back" button is really helpful for Wiki-ing too. There's also things like one-click adding of custom searches (yay TFWiki search). --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 11:54, 8 April 2010 (EDT)

==Categories==
:To distinguish between the group Headmasters and characters appearing in Japan's 1987 franchise, the categories are called "Headmasters" and "Headmasters franchise". Wouldn't it be a better option to have the franchise category be called by its franchise name "The Headmasters"? On top of that, some of its subcategories are called "Headmasters [something]" while others are called "The Headmasters [something]". I suggest to alter them all to either one of the options, preferably the latter one if the main category is changed to include "The".
:The "Universe (2003)" category also has some oddities. First of all, "Universe characters" should probably be further divided to differentiate from the 2008 guys, even if they may not need a category on their own since "Universe (2008)" is practically only characters as is. I'd do it, but right now various (sub)subcategories are called "Universe 2003 [something]" instead of a more logical "Universe (2003) [something]" to be alike to the main category. Is there a reason for that or should it be changed to match? [[User:Geewunling|Geewunling]] 09:20, 6 April 2010 (EDT)
::Distinguishing between the characters and the franchise solely by the presence of the definite article, while TECHNICALLY correct, is just asking for confusion. I do agree with you on the Universe characters and the subcategories of "Universe (2003)", though. -- [[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 09:35, 6 April 2010 (EDT)

==Analog/Homage vs Distinct Character==
This has come up in relation to whether or not [[Sentinel Prime (Animated)]] is an homage to [[Sentinel Prime (G1)]], particularly as to how both of them relate to [[Sentinel Major]]. [[User:ItsWalky]] informed me on [[Talk:Sentinel_Prime_(G1)]] that (emphasis mine):
"I view Animated Sentinel Prime as the Animated universe's version of G1 Sentinel Prime. They are analogs. That relationship goes both ways. ''This is merely how Transformers Wiki categorizes its characters.'''"

Is that policy and/or the general consensus? I don't see why it should be applied universally as ItsWalky suggests it is, especially with characters like [[Jetfire_(G1)]] and [[Jetfire_(Animated)]] where we have evidence to suggest that two characters are not intended to be homages or different 'versions' of the same character. That said, I'll bow out if the quotation from ItsWalky speaks for the wiki as a whole. -- [[User:Ayellowbirds|Ayellowbirds]] 20:50, 8 April 2010 (EDT)
:As I said, I don't consider Animated Sentinel Prime to share anything with G1 Sentinel Prime but a name. As such, Sentinel ''Major'' is an homage to Animated Sentinel Prime, and cramming him into G1 Sentinel Prime's page does him a disservice.--[[User:Rosicrucian|Rosicrucian]][[User Talk:Rosicrucian|Talk]] 22:29, 8 April 2010 (EDT)
:Well first, an analog is virtually the opposite of an homage. A character is an homage if they are designed to resemble another character WITHOUT actually BEING that character. An analog to a character actually IS the same character, only from another dimension. So Insecticon from Energon could be called an ''homage'' to the original Deluxe Insecticon Barrage because they share a similar paint job. They are, however, different and distinct characters. On the other hand, Energon Insecticon in the Dreamwave Comics is an ''analog'' to Energon Insecticon from the Energon cartoon.
:As for your actual question...I don't really know what your actual question is. Practically speaking, I mean. Jetfire (G1) and Jetfire (Animated) are on two separate pages because they are from two separate continuity families, Primax and Malgus. There is a disamg at the top because of their similar (in this case identical) names. The reuse of the name alone isn't considered a homage, generally, because name reuse is just a fact of life in trademark reservation. --[[User:Xaaron|Xaaron]] 22:45, 8 April 2010 (EDT)
::Xaaron- The issue that started this seems to be whether [[Sentinel Prime (Animated)]] and [[Sentinel Prime (G1)]] have ''any'' relationship to each other beyond the name, be it through homage or being analogues.
::I think there might be a difference of use of the word 'homage' between various parties here; ItsWalky and [[User:JimSorenson]] both used the term 'version', which Jim treated as synonymous with 'homage', and Walky identified it with 'analogue'. I chose to re-use the terms they were using, since those were at the heart of the disagreement.
::In any case, my question is whether ItsWalky's statement that ''"This is merely how Transformers Wiki categorizes its characters."'' as quoted above is valid. It suggests to me that the policy and/or consensus is that characters from different continuity families who share a name should be assumed to be analogous. -- [[User:Ayellowbirds|Ayellowbirds]] 23:08, 8 April 2010 (EDT)
:::No, that's not true. The Mini-Con Safeguard from Transformers Cybertron and the combo robot Safeguard from Transformers Animated are not analogs.
:::But whether they're analogs or not, they're still from different continuity families and would be filed under different character pages. That's where your question breaks down for me: what are you expecting to do or not do differently based on the answer on our "policy"? What are the practical ramifications of your query? I feel like you're suggesting the answer to this analog / distinct character question of yours is going to have sweeping changes on how you plan to contribute to the wiki, but I can't see HOW.
:::Basically...''What's your point''? --[[User:Xaaron|Xaaron]] 08:24, 9 April 2010 (EDT)
::::My point was to find out if ItsWalky spoke for the wiki, or just himself. After all the back and forth arguing with him and JimSorenson over related issues, I'd rather go back to tackling unrelated topics for a while, like correcting typos in articles. [[User:Ayellowbirds|Ayellowbirds]] 15:50, 9 April 2010 (EDT)
:::::The main purpose was related to the Sentinel Prime/Major example, though it's possible it might have other related purposes. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 17:00, 9 April 2010 (EDT)

==Third Party products such as Fansproject etc==
There's a good amount of folk here who have a lot of these products. While their unofficialness obviously means they cannot have their own articles, would there be ''any'' positive sentiment to somehow giving them a mention? Say a point in the corresponding trivia section? Or failing that, an external link at the bottom of the [[Kitbash]] page to some other archive (if one even exists?)? [[User:Drmick|Drmick]] 12:08, 9 April 2010 (EDT)
:They've already got a mention in the [[kitbashing]] article, and that suffices. --[[User:Detour|Detour]] 12:21, 9 April 2010 (EDT)

== 1993 European G1 character disambuigation. ==

We do not seem to have any guidelines for the default franchise-of-origin disambuig for the characters from the 1993 European G1 line. And if there ''are'' guidelines, they sure aren't being followed.

The main problem with this group is that all of them were sold in both the G1 and G2 lines in Europe, and many of them were also sold in the American G2 line. Because of this, there are three main groups:

Group 1: Skyscorchers and Axelerators: The American releases at most differed in name and window color from the European releases. Determining which version was out first is nearly impossible, but they were clearly designed for the European market. We currently use (G2) as the default for all of them.

Group 2: Color changers, Aguaspeeders, and Stormtroopers: The US only got the Aquaspeeder molds, but the US bios are, aside from the names, identical to Aquaspeeder and Stormtrooper bios.
*Autobot Color Changer Drench has Aquaspeeder Jetstorm's bio and stats.
*Autobot Color Changer Gobots has Aquaspeeder Deluge's bio and stats.
*Decepticon Color Changer Deluge has Stormtrooper Hydradread's bio and stats.
*Decepticon Color Changer Jetstorm has Stormtrooper Drench's bio and stats.

The Color Changers have the same unknowns as Group 1. Currently, the G2 disambuig is used.

Group 3: Lightformers and Trakkons. None were released in the US. Fearswoop uses the G1 disambuig.

Group 4: Obliterators. Named "Pyro" and "Clench" in G1, and "Spark" and "Colossus" in G2. [[Clench (G2)]] is just plain wrong.--[[User:FortMax|FortMax]] 16:26, 17 April 2010 (EDT)
:It's a tricky situation, but here are some similar cases that might help us decide:
:1) [[Go-Bot (G2)]] and [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Generation 2|Laser Optimus Prime]]
:We call these "Generation 2" despite [http://webspace.webring.com/people/ao/optimus7/G2Frenzy.jpg not having the term] [http://cdn3.ioffer.com/img/item/105/434/692/O5GD.jpg on their packaging.] The timeframe and the faction symbols are enough.
:2) [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Universe (2003)|''Universe'' "Spy Changers"]]
:The first release of these toys was in packaging that just said "Transformers" with no subline, much like the Euro pre-G2 examples. But they were released again later in ''Universe'' packaging, which we use for our categorization.
:If we apply those principles to your examples, then in every case I think we end up with G2. "Clench (G2)" is... odd, but not much odder than [[Double Clutch (G2)]].
:- [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 17:31, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
:: True, but the Gobots and Laser Prime still use the G2 version of the Transformers, but the 1993 Euro line still uses the 1992 logo. Hell, aside from the faction symbols, the 1993 toys use the 1992 EVERYTHING. --[[User:FortMax|FortMax]] 21:48, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
:::Shrug. It's not a perfect analog, but ultimately I don't think there is one. I personally don't see any way of getting an ironclad This Is It answer out of the question, but I do think the examples I gave present a pretty good guide if we want to use it. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 22:43, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
::::So should all of these transitional figures be moved to G2 disambigs if needed? Specifically, Should [[Fearswoop (G1)]] move to Fearswoop (G2)? --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 14:32, 25 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::If you're asking me, then yes. But the authority lies in the consensus of the mob (which seems to be pretty disinterested in the topic. Try moving the page! I bet you'd get some answers then.) - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 00:20, 29 June 2010 (EDT)

::Wow. I'd completely forgotten that G2 actually dropped the "Generation 2" from the packaging towards the end. Thanks. that's actually kind of good to know... --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 17:01, 25 May 2010 (EDT)

== A Visual Representation of Transformer Anatomy ==

For a very long time I've been fascinated with transformer hands and fingers, and was always noting the different ways they were portrayed in art and the toys. Sometimes they look like a painted gloved human hand, other times fingers (3, 4, 5, or more?) are like a bunch of linked short cylinders, and often they are made of various polygons with enormous variation. And then there are the 'hands' that are actually claws or pinchers, or (borg-like who needs a hand-on-this-arm?) weapons like laser cannons (A certain high-ranking one-eyed Decepticon comes to mind). Looking for any articles about hands brought me to the anatomy category page, and while skimming it I realized the obvious: I was looking at a list of pages many of which could easily be represented visually.

Maybe it's been suggested before, and as near as I can tell it doesn't exist (yet), but I wonder why not have a page with a visual representation of transformer anatomy and links where possible. Some 'anatomy', like the software kind probably can't be represented pictorially, but certainly many (most?) could. It would take a lot of work from some folks skilled in illustration, but I think it'd be really cool to have a picture of a transformer (a generic male or one selected to be representative) with annotations of various anatomy, and a close-up of a head & face for head/face specific ones. There could also be a female version (for, say, heel struts, though too many specifics could easily be sexist) and maybe an animal/non-humanoid version. Cut-aways could reveal internal anatomy not easily represented with an exterior-only view and some non-anatomy (like kibble) could also be represented. I've even mused that such an illustration could be a transformer version of da Vinci's [[Wikipedia:Vitruvian_Man|Vitruvian Man] as was done before [http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Image:AHM15casey.jpg], though some readers might misunderstand and think it was an eight-limbed transformer.

So, whadyathink? Is this an old, horrible idea that was harshly rejected years ago, a kinda-sorta OK one that is priority #4,896,929.6, or worst of all does exactly this very thing exist and I somehow missed it? {{unsigned|4.254.84.116}}
:Finding said material varies between source to source. "[[Transformers: The Ultimate Guide]]", I believe, had a few X-ray shots of the TFs (Optimus comes to mind easily), being a DK book. The most recent issue of TV Magazine has a few anatomy pictures of Animated Optimus, Bumblebee, and Starscream, but I'm not sure if earlier TV Magazine issues did so as well. I think they're rather scarce on both sides of the Pacific, though I could be wrong... --[[User:Lonegamer78|Lonegamer78]] 03:05, 23 April 2010 (EDT)

::Anon poster seems to be suggesting that we make our own anatomy pictures. That's not really within the remit of this site, since we only use canonical information and therefore images. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 03:17, 23 April 2010 (EDT)
:::Heh, I need sleep... But, that answers your question, anon. --[[User:Lonegamer78|Lonegamer78]] 03:51, 23 April 2010 (EDT)

::::Another canon image I just noticed is on Takara's [[World of Transformers]] site. There's a cutaway of [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]]. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 07:37, 24 April 2010 (EDT)

==Planet Cybertron==
:First, I'd like to point at two above unresolved matters about category names and G1.5 disambs.
:Second, I'm currently motivated to update the information on the wiki regarding Cybertron locations. But I have no clue how to do it. Since we don't split them, can I just lump information from different continuities and/or continuity families together in the intro part and let the fiction section do the sourcing or should I keep the introduction to what usually amounts to "[...] is a city on Cybertron" and the contributions of various continuities unambiguously separated. Also, this whole city-state vs city thing as we've currently got it written down (mostly courtsey of the city template) is confusing the heck out of me. [[User:Geewunling|Geewunling]] 02:14, 27 April 2010 (EDT)

==Google-rank milestone==
For the first time that I've seen, a Google-search for "Transformers wiki" puts us at the top of the list, followed by Wikia and then Wikipedia. Well done, people! (Looking up character names tends to give the reverse order, but still.) - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 17:19, 6 May 2010 (EDT)
:I remember some months back, we got the #1 result when I checked, though it wasn't consistent in all areas (I made a thread at the Allspark and some people were getting us first, others weren't). Eventually, we sank back down to #2 again somehow. This is the first I've heard of anyone seeing us back at #1. Hopefully we'll stay there, this time! --[[User:DrSpengler|DrSpengler]] 17:22, 6 May 2010 (EDT)
:I get us second (tfwiki.net), fourth (tfwiki.virtutechgames.com), fifth (174-143-26-81.slicehost.net), twentyfirst (174.143.26.81) and thirty third (en.tfwiki.net) --[[User:Abates|abates]] 17:32, 6 May 2010 (EDT)
::...why on earth do we have so many aliases that are publically crawlable? --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 17:46, 6 May 2010 (EDT)
:::I PM'd Scout about it on AllSpark a while ago. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 00:12, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
::I get first... and Wikia isn't even on the first "screen" of results. ahahahah. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 23:48, 6 May 2010 (EDT)
:::Oh, and because I forgot to mention it earlier, I'm getting us at #1, too (wikia at second, Wikipedia at 3rd). With any luck, we'll keep the rank this time and never have to worry about confusion with that swirling vortex of ineptitude ever again. --[[User:DrSpengler|DrSpengler]] 00:27, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
::::Key question... are you logged into your google account when you check? -Derik (not logged in)
:::::I'm not logged into mine, but I still get us #1, Wikia #2, Wikipedia #3. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 01:49, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
::::::Yay! (You'd be surprised how often people forget Google is customizing their search results.) -[[User:Derik|Derik]] 01:50, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::::Seems the result swings back and forth, sometimes we got first while sometimes second. (I don't have a Google account.) --'''[[User:TX55|TX55]]'''''[[User talk:TX55|TALK]]'' 02:01, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
::::::::I'm logged into Google, and I get wikia first, then us, then wikipedia. Could the difference be regional? I'm Canadian, if that helps. -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 21:12, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::Oddly I get us first if I log OUT of my gmail account, but second if I am logged in. --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 12:06, 12 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::The results are pretty volatile at the moment. We'd been showing at #1 for me for a few days before Jackpot mentioned it, but since then, I've only seen us coming up in second place. I really do think it would help us if we got the alias problem mentioned above sorted out so that Google was only indexing us once. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 22:39, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::Also people are now starting to link to us at the [http://www.metafilter.com/91256/Mad-Man-Mad-Men-Namor-sleeps-with-the-fishes wrong URL], which can only be bad for us. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 07:58, 8 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::Yeah, we need to either throw a [http://www.google.com/support/webmasters/bin/answer.py?answer=156449 "no index" robots.txt] file on those other domains (then do [http://www.google.com/support/webmasters/bin/answer.py?hl=en&answer=164734 this Webmaster Tools bit], if anyone's got those for our site), redirect them, or take them offline (depending on what would work best).
:::::::::::Maybe someone should PM McFly on the Allspark, since that was mentioned as getting a response? --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 09:52, 8 May 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::The best way, IMHO, is to use a 301 response to direct them to the proper URL . I already PM'd McFly about this, and he said that Scout handles redirects. I didn't get any response when I PM'd her though. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 18:44, 8 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::::It's final exam time now. That might have something to do with it.--[[User:Apcog|Apcog]] 19:01, 8 May 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::::I don't know whether this is just me or not, but tfwiki.virtutechgames.com is throwing a "Page Not Found" at me right now. --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 11:49, 12 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::::::It's not working for me either, looks like the alias has been deleted. Awesome! Now we just need to get the IP address, 174-143-26-81.slicehost.net and *.tfwiki.net to redirect and we're set! --[[User:Abates|abates]] 16:48, 12 May 2010 (EDT)
:Teletraan-1 just got linked on Penny Arcade's frontpage. Expect them to go out the top of Google and then have their server burst into flames. -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 05:03, 19 May 2010 (EDT)

== Pyro's Packaging Art Found (Hopefully) ==

OK, I got a big TIF scan sent over from Graham at The Hub, which I present thusly: http://miscfile.alienharmony.com/transformers/pyro.tif because it needs some cleanup and I figured I'd let someone who knows better what they're doing do said cleanup. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 06:29, 14 May 2010 (EDT)
: Hoorraaay! Cleaned up and put up. Thanks! --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 08:24, 14 May 2010 (EDT)

== What the hell is emopanda? :D ==

Hey, people have been asking me what the emopanda URL is that they see when they load up the wiki (I've seen it too). I recall it has something to do with Derik, but why is it loading when we load our wiki? --[[User:FFN|FFN]] 07:42, 19 May 2010 (EDT)
:It's Derik's site. He has a stylesheet file on there which has experimental stuff in it, which (theoretically) later gets moved to the global stylesheet here once it's all tested. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 07:55, 19 May 2010 (EDT)

==Userpage caps==
Can we get a hardline policy on User Page sizes? Preferably, the smaller the better? I'm getting juuuuuuuuust a wee bit sick of the Recent Changes page being cluttered by people turning this wiki into a fucking Myspace account. That this recent one is ''not in English'' doesn't help. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 12:27, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:My guess is we could, but page size has little to do with the number of edits that can be done to it. So, is it worth bothering about a user page limit? [[User:Geewunling|Geewunling]] 12:39, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
::Perhaps a limit to the number of times a user page can be edited in a day. --[[User:NCZ|NCZ]] 12:43, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:::Ditto. Also, I say we ban the hell out of user pages in other languages. --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 12:46, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:::How about some simple rules?
:::* '''ONE''' image for your page. That's all you need.
:::* No collection listing. Nobody cares.
:::* Keep it to one paragraph of standard info. This is not a dating site, we don't care about your likes and dislikes.
:::* Listing ''work directly related to updating this wiki'' on top of the above-mentioned paragraph is fine. Projects on your plate, past completed ones, etc, all fine.
:::* '''ENGLISH'''.
:::* All User Pages are subject to mods going "NO" and taking a chainsaw on fire to it.
:::I think this is not unreasonable. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 12:58, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
::::One more.
::::A user page can only be edited X (we'll decide the exact number later) times a day. Any more and you are subject to being temporarily banhammered. --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 13:03, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::So, would point 3 also forbid any stuff like personal canon or thoughts on canon? I kinda like those sections on user pages. [[User:Geewunling|Geewunling]] 13:06, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
::::::Basically, yes. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 13:08, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::::I'm... with Geewunling, actually. Notes like personal canon and fave things are useful for knowing what a user's biases are and what areas of the wiki they're likely to work on, which I find interesting and useful.
:::::::IMHO for the most part the real problem is people who make frequent edits to their userpage without making many wider wiki edits, not necessarily the content. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 16:48, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
::::::::That can be pretty well covered in the initial paragraph. If you like BW best and think you'll do mostly that, fine, say so. We don't need your fanfic ideas. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 16:51, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::My user page should be the guideline for all of you. [[User:Hooper X|-hx]] 17:29, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::I guess, to be straightforward with my opinion, if the person's not posting anything offensive, uploading multiple pictures, or cluttering up Recent Edits, I don't see how it matters all that much what a person has on their userpage.
::::::::::If anything, there's some people I remember wishing had ''more'' information about themselves on their userpages, especially the admins. Makes it easier to get a mental map of which regular is which. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 17:32, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::That's my opinion, too. I don't think it matters what is on a user page, even *gasp* a foreign language. If the edits could be restricted to one a day though, that would be cool. - [[User:Starfield|Starfield]] 17:36, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
::::I fully support all those points. Our space should not be dedicated to MySpace accounts for Transformers nerds. [[User:Interrobang|—Interrobang]] 17:48, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::[http://transformers.wikia.com/wiki/User_blog:Xfa27/Demolisher It could be worse...] --[[User:Abates|abates]] 18:19, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
::::::All the better that we left. [[User:Interrobang|—Interrobang]] 19:22, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
Hmmm ... what about something like all user page edits being automatically tagged as minor edits?--[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 18:39, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:I don't hide minor edits, because even "minor" edits can be big fuckups. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 19:07, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
My userpage is the one we should all aim to emulate. X-P - [[User:Chris McFeely|Chris McFeely]] 19:26, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
::Is there a function that would hide all user page edits? --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 21:26, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:::Select "User" from the Namespace dropdown and then tick the "Invert selection" box. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 21:37, 24 May 2010 (EDT)

===No collection listing ===
[[Greg Sepelak|M Sipher]] suggested that above. Can I (or any other regular, non-admin user) tell people to remove their collection lists? [[User:Item42|Item42]] 16:04, 25 June 2010 (EDT)

== Good idea from the other place, no really! ==

Looking over the other Transformers wiki, I noticed that their recent changes takes multiple successive edits of the same page by the same user and shows them as a single listing (with a clickable drop down showing more details). Is there any way we can get this function here? --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 11:10, 26 May 2010 (EDT)

:It doesn't work like that. It actually takes multiple edits of the same page within a specific timeframe and shows them as a single listing. Whether it's the same user or not doesn't factor in. --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 15:19, 26 May 2010 (EDT)

:If you mean the enhanced recent changes page, we already have that here. You can turn it on in your preferences. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 15:54, 26 May 2010 (EDT)

::I noticed the point Blackout made after examining it more, it still seemed like a useful function - particularly with some of the problems we've had with "clogging recent changes". Good to know we have it here. --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 17:43, 26 May 2010 (EDT)

:::It's a good function (on Wikia, it only appear for anon and bot users) since it is much more convenience. --'''[[User:TX55|TX55]]'''''[[User talk:TX55|TALK]]'' 00:05, 27 May 2010 (EDT)

== Wikia's New Initiative ==

Apparently, they're now offering to absolutely remove all ads from small wikis, for 19.95 dollars a month.

Why am I not surprised? --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 15:10, 28 May 2010 (EDT)
: Hahahahaha. That's cheaper than what we pay for hosting, but still sooooo not worth it. --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 15:14, 28 May 2010 (EDT)
::It's even more stupid once you realize that some wikis are incredibly small, edited by a small group of people, and the only anons are regular editors forgetting to log in. (My wiki in a nutshell.) --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 15:20, 28 May 2010 (EDT)
:::Those are about the only wikis that would actually be eligible for this, since they have to get less than 20,000 page views a month. For comparison, we get about 8 times that per ''day''. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 19:21, 28 May 2010 (EDT)
::::And anyone running that small a wiki who's willing to throw money at it would be much better off getting their own webspace for $10/month and installing MediaWiki software on it (not to mention getting their own domain and POP e-mail and being able to upload and do whatever they want with the rest of their webspace). --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 19:40, 28 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::They're only giving it to the first 100 wikis. I'm pretty much ready to take bets on how long until Wikia realizes only twelve people in the universe have gone for it and now they must make it 19.95 dollars a ''week ''in order to make any sort of profit. --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 03:34, 29 May 2010 (EDT)

== Image leeching ==
Is there much we can do about people leeching images off the wiki? That is, people on forums directly linking the image off of our server and not bothering to rehost it. --[[User:FFN|FFN]] 12:38, 15 June 2010 (EDT)
:I believe there was a discussion about this at some point. The general consensus was to somehow get all hotlinked images to change to another image or something. --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 12:47, 15 June 2010 (EDT)
::There's plenty that can be done. The problem has been getting the folks with server access to actually do it. :> --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 13:55, 15 June 2010 (EDT)
:::Yeah, I've brought this up a few times to no avail :( --[[User:FFN|FFN]] 19:05, 15 June 2010 (EDT)
::::But seriously, people on forums are not going to stop directly linking images (thus costing you money and making the wiki perform more sluggishly than necessary) until something is done about this. --[[User:FFN|FFN]] 20:50, 17 June 2010 (EDT)
:::::Have you emailed [[User:Suki Brits|Suki Brits]] about it? Not sure how often she checks the Community Portal. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 21:34, 17 June 2010 (EDT)
::::::Good idea, I just did so. --[[User:FFN|FFN]] 01:27, 18 June 2010 (EDT)
:::::::She never got back to me. Now what? --[[User:FFN|FFN]] 21:47, 28 June 2010 (EDT)
::::::::That's about as far as I got with the subdomain issue too. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 22:08, 28 June 2010 (EDT)

== Slicehost RSS Rerouting ==

Is there any way to get the RSS feed to never switch over to the Slicehost IP? Maybe I'm the only one who bothers subscribing to the Recent Changes feed, but it's really annoying ending up with dozens of duplicate entries constantly because the feed keeps switching between sending the TFWiki.net server entries and the Slicehost duplicate entries. (Not to mention that accidentally clicking to the site from the Slicehost entries instead of the TFWiki ones lands you on the wrong server for editing. Been tripped up by that a couple times, too.) --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 02:35, 22 June 2010 (EDT)
:Out of interest, what are you using as an RSS reader? --[[User:Abates|abates]] 05:05, 22 June 2010 (EDT)
::I just use Opera's built-in RSS reader. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 10:34, 22 June 2010 (EDT)

==Transform into other bots==
I was wondering if this gimmick has ever been done. As an example: Ratchet transforms into Ironhide, or something like that.
Its odd..a transformer becoming another one, but I HAD to ask if it'd be done or not.--[[User:Chipmonk328|Chipmonk328]]
:Bizarrely, [[:Image:Skywarpatron.jpg|it almost was]].--[[User:Rosicrucian|Rosicrucian]][[User Talk:Rosicrucian|Talk]] 22:54, 21 June 2010 (EDT)
::Technically it ''has'' been done, if you count [[Shockwave (Animated)]] and [[Punch (G1)]]. --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 12:40, 28 June 2010 (EDT)

==Anon Criticism==
I find this wiki to be a piece of shit. What did you hope to accomplish wih these captions? Why didn't you go to Uncyclopedia to make your articles funny? But they probably wouldn't accept on account of how lame it is. -General Q-Nek
:I just realized that by reverting your post, I wasn't following my own advice. Most people here like the jokes, if you don't like them start your own Transformers related wiki. --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 17:31, 24 June 2010 (EDT)
::Heck, go help the Wikia. Goodness knows they need it. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 17:47, 24 June 2010 (EDT)
:::But the Wikia also has jokes on it, so it won't help our humourless anon at all! --[[User:Abates|abates]] 18:43, 24 June 2010 (EDT)
::::An entire wiki delivered completely seriously would be monotonous. As the [[Transformers Wiki:Caption]] page explains, serious captions tend to be redundant, and since Transformers is a (mostly) light-hearted kids' franchise, we might as well have fun with it. Captions are also a reward for users who are frequently helpful. And Uncyclopedia is different; their wiki is devoted entirely to nonsense, and for the most part we deliver actual information in addition to these funny captions and sometimes comments. That's how I see it. --[[User:NCZ|NCZ]] 18:47, 24 June 2010 (EDT)
:::::To abates, there is some talk at the wikia about getting away from the funny. If our anonymous friend can point to an instance where the humor gets in the way of the information, that particular joke might need to be changed. Otherwise, I've gotta agree with NCZ - it's about giant frickin' robots from outer space, how serious can it really be? --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 19:00, 24 June 2010 (EDT)
::::::Yeah, what Khajidha said. While I also agree on principle that I think a serious TF wiki is probably pointless, if Wikia has to keep existing at all I'd rather see it finally go in that direction to stop being a fifth-rate copy of us. And our anon here would probably be better served helping the swap there than mouthing at us. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 19:05, 24 June 2010 (EDT)
:::::::Out of the two admins over at the Wikia, at least of them (Xeno) is firmly against losing the humour, so unfortunately I don't think it'll happen while he's in charge. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 20:17, 24 June 2010 (EDT)
::::::::Pity. I guess Wikia's going to keep going nowhere, then, until they realize that almost everyone who's OK with editing a funny wiki is already here with us. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 20:34, 24 June 2010 (EDT)

Hurr Hurr Hurrr!!! I was just joking! I wanted to see if it would get deleted. The jokes aren't to bad. ( but im still in favor of Uncyclopedia's jokes.) I actually kudos this Wikia when it comes to delivering information. A thousand lamentations. again, I thought this would be deleted, I just wanted to see how often this page would be checked. ( I guess i could of done that more efficiently.)-General Q-Nek

Also, I enjoy how calm people were when replying. I wish I had some way of helping, but I'm more of novice to the deep Transformer knowledge.-General Q-Nek
:People commenting on the humor is a semi-frequent thing, so... you get used to hauling out the counterarguments.
:As for how often pages get checked, most of the regulars keep frequent tabs on everything. If you want to track changes to any specific pages, you can create an account and add pages to your watchlist. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 00:24, 26 June 2010 (EDT)

Interesting, thanks for the info!-General Q-Nek

=="Games" vs. "Fiction"==
I noticed in [[Optimus Prime (Prime)]] that info from ''Exodus'' is filed under "Fiction", while ''War for Cyberton'' and ''Cybertron Adventures'' is in a separate "Games" section. I didn't think this was how we did things, so I was going to put everything under "Fiction" and do away with "Games", but I double-checked some movieverse articles to be sure, and lo and behold "Games" is separate there too (such as in [[Shockwave (Movie)]]). This was an explicit change - looking in the history, the Shockwave article used to have an all-inclusive "Fiction" section. Why was this changed? Games are fiction too. I see absolutely no reason to separate them, any more than we would separate the ''Find Your Fate'' books. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 14:48, 29 June 2010 (EDT)
: Splitting off video game information helps pages from getting too unwieldy. Pages such as [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]]'s are much more readable this way. --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 14:51, 29 June 2010 (EDT)
::That seems really arbitrary to me. I guess there's little harm done in doing that to Cheetor's page, since the BW games are so story-light and have no impact on other fiction. But for TF:Prime it seems anti-informative: Unlike the BW games, WfC is a defining element of the larger novel/cartoon storyline. Shunting it off into a "Games" ghetto breaks up the information flow pointlessly. I think a "Games" section should be the exception, not the rule. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 14:59, 29 June 2010 (EDT)
:::I'd actually treat WFC as the exception. It is the only video game that ever "mattered" from a story perspective. With that in mind, I would include it within Fiction. --[[User:Thylacine 2000|Thylacine 2000]] 15:02, 29 June 2010 (EDT)
::::I'd say its fiction matters very little, since the novel ''Exodus'' includes its events and supercedes it, since it's apparently written straight from the new "Prime" story bible. --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 15:39, 29 June 2010 (EDT)
::::The Movieverse games are pretty story-heavy. If you look at [[Optimus Prime (Movie)]], the game writeups are substantial, and there's nothing more superfluous about their continuities than the Titan comics or the Cyber Mission cartoons, which of course ''are'' included in "Fiction". I agree with the general principle that unwieldiness is a problem worth addressing, but this is an incredibly arbitrary way to fight it as an across-the-board rule. Scalpels and hammers and all that. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 15:31, 29 June 2010 (EDT)
:::::I think I was the one who started separating them as I wrote the sections. I mainly did it for layout reasons (I prefer to make separate sections clearly defined), and I figure that given video games are usually the least-edited types of articles on this wiki, they were considered to be a lesser form of fiction than other stuff (as seen by Walky's comment about it not mattering). Also, until WFC, video game fiction tended to be splinter continuities. --[[User:FFN|FFN]] 11:38, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::Walky's point--and it is a pertinent one, that I hadn't considered--is that in time WFC could prove to be just as much a splinter continuity. Exodus appears to be the "real" story--it certainly includes more concepts, more back history, and more of the developing brand structure that Aaron discussed in his "Once Upon A Time On Cybertron" shpiel at Botcon. WFC might differ from this "core" story the same way basically all the other games differ from theirs--and most of us ''at this point in time'' see it the other way around because we've been hearing about WFC as being the next main fiction product in and of itself since about last December, whereas ''Exodus'' was announced much more recently, seemingly out-of-the-blue, and had no advance samples / screenshots / P.R. that could compare with the WFC blitz. In other words, they treated the "real" story as an afterthought, probably because they know young kids are more into gaming than books, but in the long run WFC's fiction will matter for less. So... uhh... maybe it should stay in "Games" after all? --[[User:Thylacine 2000|Thylacine 2000]] 11:44, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::Sure, I get that. Even accepting that Exodus is going to be dominant (which at the moment is still a guess, albeit an educated one), I really dislike the idea of game-fiction being walled off by default just because of its medium. It's like we're saying that games ''can't'' matter. If we're going to start making value judgements about which fiction is primary and which is of secondary notice - not a bad idea, mind - I think we should do it right and apply it across the board. Like I said above, there's no real difference in those terms between the movieverse games and the Titan comics, so if one deserves to be sectioned off, then so does the other. I could see dividing the "Fiction" section between "Core continuities" and "Offshoots & micro-continuities", allowing the writeups on the movies + IDW comics to be read through without interruption. That could also help out some of our runaway G1 pages. But as it is now, picking on games is just a half-measure to muddled and weirdly prejudicial effect. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 07:28, 4 July 2010 (EDT)

==Hall of Fame "faction" markers?==
It dawns on me that perhaps up in the top-right with the other faction markers, we should have something indicating that this person/character is now part of the Transformers Hall of Fame. Perhaps a silver Matrix, to go along with the trophies from BC. Of course, the way Hasbro sees characters, we'd be giving this tag to four different Bumblebees, but still. I think it'd be a nice addition. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 11:05, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
:Taking the fact that they're all one character in Hasbro's eyes, should we tag the disambiguation page as well? --[[User:Bluestreak7|Bluestreak7]] 11:06, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
::No, because that's not strictly true. Predacon Megatron is apparently considered a separate "entity" from G1/Movie/Animated/Prime Megatron. Mini-Con Shockwave certainly wouldn't be considered the same as G1/En/Movie/Prime Shockwave. And let's not even go into the problems raised by putting it on the "Dinobot" disambig. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 11:19, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
:::Point. But how far do we go with each "character"? Does RID count? It got no love during the clip shows. What about the Optimus cloned and tortured to become Nemesis Prime? What about Shattered Glass? If we limit ourselves to what Hasbro showed in the clip shows, then we would lose Animated Grimlock, had he won. So how far to go with this? Just hit the big ones (G1/UT/Movie/Animted/Prime) and be done with it, or go further? I just want to see this get fleshed out before we start. --[[User:Bluestreak7|Bluestreak7]] 11:46, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
::::SG Prime actually was in the display case and apparently "is" Optimus Prime as far as the Hall is concerned. Yeah. So moving forward, I would suggest making a parallel structure for everybody involved: that is, if ANYBODY got a SG / UT / whatever version as "themselves," then everybody else could be seen as getting it too and, thus, SG Grimlock is "himself" and would have gotten the Matrix icon.
::::The RID thing bugs me--need to look more closely at those Hall display pics and see if there was ANY relevant merch in there at all. If it wasn't.... I guess we really would leave them out. It's no harder to see RID Megs and UT Megs as "being" "the" Megatron, but... this is an area where we shouldn't try to make the rules. I just wish the people who did make them had been more consistent about it. --[[User:Thylacine 2000|Thylacine 2000]] 11:56, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::Nope, nuttin' there from RID. I looked back through the display pics. Everybody has the extended G1-iverse plus Movie and Animated. Two had UT and one had SG. I guess those are the "favored" continuities and the ones in which their character analogues would get whatever icon we choose to give. And as Siph said, there was no display "crossover" from Beasts to anywhere else, so Optimus Primal isn't Optimus Prime and we are spared that degree of headache. Though here's another one: even though Hasbro had full access to the toys, they DIDN'T include Generations Prime/Megs/BB in the displays, so does that mean the Prime characters are not "themselves"? But Shattered Glass IS? --[[User:Thylacine 2000|Thylacine 2000]] 12:06, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::I bet RID clips didn't show up because of the usual Disney stuff. --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 12:29, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::I think you are over thinking it. The thing to ask yourself is, would Hasbro even consider RID Prime or Predacon Megatron for a spot of their own in the Hall of Fame? No, probably not, since "Optimus Prime" and "Megatron" pretty much covers them. - [[User:Starfield|Starfield]] 12:38, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
I would extend this to also putting gold Matrix icons on the real-life people that got hall-of-famed.--[[User:Rosicrucian|Rosicrucian]][[User Talk:Rosicrucian|Talk]] 11:47, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
:I concur. At least that's easy. We don't have multiple Peter Cullen articles floating around here. --[[User:Bluestreak7|Bluestreak7]] 11:49, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
:For an image, how about the [[:Image:BotCon2010-HOFkeepsake.jpg|silhouette of the statue seen here]]? It could be cleaned up a bit and made black and white. It could also be a little larger than our current icons. - [[User:Starfield|Starfield]] 11:54, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
::That is totally not going to be recognizable at faction icon size.--[[User:Rosicrucian|Rosicrucian]][[User Talk:Rosicrucian|Talk]] 11:55, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
[[Image:Hall of fame icon test.png|thumb|right]]
It'll have to wait until I get home from work tonight, but I feel confident I could make an icon based off of the stylized Matrix and starburst circle around it that the tops of the trophies had. I'll post it here once I have it done, and we can tweak it if we don't like it.--[[User:Rosicrucian|Rosicrucian]][[User Talk:Rosicrucian|Talk]] 12:06, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
:Alright, here's my first stab at it. If it were faction-icon sized, it'd look like this: [[Image:Hall of fame icon test.png|30px]]

:Whaddaya think? Will that hold up to being recolored gold and silver?--[[User:Rosicrucian|Rosicrucian]][[User Talk:Rosicrucian|Talk]] 00:07, 3 July 2010 (EDT)
::Hot damn, looks good to me. -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 01:33, 3 July 2010 (EDT)
::Looks great! --[[User:Abates|abates]] 01:40, 3 July 2010 (EDT)
:::Alright, the factions template code for these are "hofgold" and "hofsilver". I've tagged all the real-life inductees, as well as put a silver icon on Dinobot, but now I'm heading out to do a grocery run. Anybody should be able to tag the rest now, but I'll work on tagging some when I get back if there are any left.--[[User:Rosicrucian|Rosicrucian]][[User Talk:Rosicrucian|Talk]] 14:53, 3 July 2010 (EDT)

== The 11000th article ==

I think was [[Assembly]]. Wheeeee! Sorry, Irvine, you missed it by one... --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 18:46, 2 July 2010 (EDT)

== BigBadToyStore ==

Does that deserve an article yet? (maybe to go in the "Retailers" category) They got their first Hasbro exclusive (see http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=has19150&mode=retail). [[User:Item42|Item42]] 01:02, 3 July 2010 (EDT)

== What's Canon For Each Continuity ==

OK, after watching one seriously stupid and quite frankly embarrassing mess of a thread on the Allspark, I feel a need to say something. Namely that I'm really tired of our tendency to apply cross-continuity retcons all over the place.

Yes, everything official is canon for some continuity. But the key here is SOME CONTINUITY. I think we need to stop treating any details that take place in one continuity as if they definitely for sure affect another separate continuity. We need to start dropping the 100% in-universe conceit just a little and acknowledging the real-life reality of things. Namely that even if elements of one continuity are borrowed into another, that doesn't necessarily mean the writers of that continuity borrowed from have to acknowledge it in their own storyline. In fact, in some cases they even explicitly don't.

Just to borrow one scenario, every time we go "Oh, well, this event that happened in an Animated book/FunPub story uses some Movie concept, so obviously it's now canon for the Movie fiction too!" we just confuse the matter by presenting as canon for the Movie continuity things that have not actually happened in the actual Movie fiction, and may never actually happen in the future. Since the Movie writers--to be quite blunt and bringing in a dose of cold hard reality--probably do not know or care what an Animated reference or a FunPub story have done in their universe.

I'm not saying we shouldn't document this sort of cross-continuity mention at all, but merging pages based on it and writing it up in the main continuity sections and all that, well, it's just really getting to the point of being stupid and confusing. I'm starting to feel like, instead of getting to just write stuff up based on what happened in the actual fiction for each continuity, or what the writers who are actually in charge of writing each continuity actually said about their own continuity, now I gotta worry about mind-reading the wiki's pet fanon theories about which things that were never meant to be related by the actual authors go together after all.

And when it leads to things like some of us on the forums actually trying to tell the authors that we know better than they do about what they have planned for ''their own storylines''... just, come on people.

Yeah, I know I'm probably the only person who actually feels this way and you're just going to heap insults on me, but I'm just tired of this, especially to the degrees it's been going on lately. It makes the wiki confusing and ridiculous for me to both read and edit, especially when done in the sheer volume it's been done lately, and I don't like being in the position of feeling this negatively towards our setup. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 22:22, 5 July 2010 (EDT)

:This is a little too generic a rant to be helpful. Obviously, you're talking about the Sideways merger. What else, specifically, is being affected by this sort of thing? --[[User:Xaaron|Xaaron]] 22:32, 5 July 2010 (EDT)

::And Alignment supposedly being canon. And the renaming of the G1 characters. And merging Alpha Trion's pages. And really the whole multiversal singularity in general and everything related to that. And... etc. etc. (At least the whole thing with Sentinel Major was finally stopped by the affected author in question putting his foot down and people eventually relenting.) It's been bugging me for a while, but the mess lately was really kind of just the last straw where it tipped into "OK, this is just starting to get unignorably dumb" territory. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 22:50, 5 July 2010 (EDT)

:::Whatever Hasbro approves of is canon. It doesn't matter if people are annoyed by it or it goes against original authorial intent. Transformers is Hasbro's property and if they sign their name off on something, it is canon.
::::Pretty much. There's no question a lot of fanon made its way into the AAII, but it's official now. You can blame the writers for taking advantage of their official positions to win internet arguments, but you can't blame the Wiki for acknowledging what they got published. As for Alpha Trion, he now has the dubious honor of being one of the 13, a multiversal singularity. Merging his pages had to be done -- he can't just be one of the 13 in SOME continuities, b/c the whole point of the 13 up til now is that there's only one of each of them in the multiverse. Does it make sense that G1 Alpha Trion and SG Alpha Trion are the same guy? No, not really. But it's the officially mandated position of Hasbro now, so...roll with it. --[[User:Xaaron|Xaaron]] 23:10, 5 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::It's official for Animated. But last I knew, Sorenson was not licensed to write fiction for anything but the Animated continuity, so what he says in the Almanac is only canon for Animated and is a footnote at best in those other continuities.
:::::Now, when the actual Movie writers make some fiction officially licensed as a part of the Movie continuity saying that ROTF Sideways is the same all the other Sideways, then it'll actually be full canon for the Movie continuity.
:::::Likewise, Alpha Trion is a member of the 13 in Exodus, which is a part of the Prime continuity. I missed the part where that constitutes official fiction for any of the other continuities. Again, footnote sure, but until we get official fiction corroborating from those other continuities...
:::::He certainly can be a singularity in only those continuities that actually use the singularity. Again, step outside of the in-universe a bit and accept that in the real world the different writing teams can and do end up doing different things with their characters and storylines. They don't always fit into a nice tidy bow, and I do not think it should be our job to fanwank it into doing so; it should just be our job to present the canon as-is for each continuity's actual fiction, even if that means some contradictions.
:::::Like I said, we should not be misrepresenting things that did not happen in the official fiction specific to a continuity as if it actually did, just because it happened in an entirely separate continuity.
:::::Because, what Exodus does is no more "officially mandated by Hasbro" than what IDW does, what Animated does, what the Movies do, etc. It's ''all'' official fiction. For ''some'' continuity. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 23:35, 5 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::The entire point of a multiversal singularity is that who and what they are is official across ALL continuities. To say Alpha Trion can be a multiversal singularity only in Prime continuity is a contradiction of terms.
::::::And "official by Hasbro" means "official by Hasbro". I don't understand where this dissection of Animated and Movie universes is coming from. Sorenson wasn't given a license to Animated continuity and Michael Bay a license to Movie continuity...they were each just told to make something for Hasbro's Transformers property. The franchise indicator / universal stream breakdown for the fiction is an IN-fiction construct, not a legal distinction of rights between contributors. The movie writers don't have any more rights to those characters or properties than Sorenson, or Fun Pub, or IDW. They're all working for Hasbro. Like that quote from Nick Roche about how he thought he'd get to tell the story of Kup's reactivation, but IDW let Shane McCarthy do what he wanted with the character. IDW Kup is IDW's baby, not Roche's. They got to decide when and where he was used. And Sideways (ROTF) is Hasbro's baby, not some movie writer's. Sorenson was authorized to write about Hasbro's intellectual property called ''The Transformers'', employing the universal stream distinction for their individual franchises. Ergo, anything published in Allspark Almanac II was true for anything it said it was true for...it wasn't somehow "limited" just to Animated concepts. --[[User:Xaaron|Xaaron]] 23:55, 5 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::You're right that that's a contradiction in terms. But it only matters as much as we care about presenting the multiverse as though it's a real, consistent world. It's a fun conceit, and it subtly underlies a lot of what we do... but it's worth questioning. Which do we value more when there's a conflict: the integrity of a series, or multiversal decrees? - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 00:16, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::Hasbro "signs off" on the notion that everybody ever named Optimus Prime is the exact same character. Their use of terminology is not exactly the same as ours. We've been working around that for years. --[[User:Thylacine 2000|Thylacine 2000]] 23:03, 5 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::Good point. It's also been [[Continuity#Unified Japanese continuities|officially declared]] that RiD and the movieverse are in-continuity with G1. We never even ''tried'' to take that seriously, so why should be obligated to accept these other cross-continuity declarations?
:::::We're at a very interesting decision point here. Before it was ever acknowledged officially, the idea of the TF multiverse was accepted by fans as simply an in-universe way of giving equal regard to all of the contradictory series. But over the last decade or so, the multiverse has oozed into canon in a slipshod, right-hand-doesn't-know-what-the-left-is-doing, nobody-at-the-wheel way. And we who have taken up the burden of documenting it are starting to feel the strain of untangling the crush of continuities elbowing each other and stepping on each other's feet.
:::::I'm not sure what the ideal approach is; I wonder how comic-book wikis have dealt with this. My personal preference, as I [[Talk:Thirteen original Transformers#Alpha_Trion|elaborated elsewhere]], is to try to portray each series as it defines itself, giving only passing credence to cross-series retcons and decrees. I certainly haven't thought through all the practical ramifications, but it seems the most rational starting point to me.
:::::- [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 23:58, 5 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::RID (or ''Car Robots'', rather) is absolutely in the G1 continuity family. Just on the Japanese side. The movie thing only came up in one website timeline. [[User:Interrobang|—Interrobang]] 00:12, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::You are mistaken. RID is not in G1, but Car Robots is. Our RID is a distinct cluster (Viron) from G1 (Primax). RID and CR are in different clusters. But to keep us from having duplicate articles for everybody in Car Robots/RID, we note what's going on (or we should). We had this discussion a while ago, and I guess you weren't there or something. Japan once claimed that the movie (well, their version of the movie) took place in G1. This didn't end up happening and Japanese stuff since has ignored that tidbit, but even if it hadn't, their movie is not the same "universal stream" as ours to begin with. It would be the same thing as RID/CR. We don't ignore these things. --[[Special:Contributions/65.60.140.213|65.60.140.213]] 00:14, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::Thank you for the clarification. And to clarify my own words, I never meant to suggest that we did or should ''ignore'' anything. It's all a matter of relative value. If, for instance, we placed a high value on the Japanese timeline and the attendant CR/RiD split, we WOULD have separate articles or more prominent declarations or ''something'' more than we currently do, which is just about jack (as evidenced by my ignorance). On the flipside, we ARE placing a high value on the FunPub model of the multiverse, letting it dictate article structure and primary presentation. We're even letting it define post-FunPub claims: As far as I know, all that the ''Prime'' universe has said about its Alpha Trion is that he was one of the original 13 TFs, a claim that has no multiversal relevance at ALL unless you apply the FunPub notion that The 13 are singularities. If we valued the FunPub model at the same level we do the Japanese continuity, we wouldn't be arguing over how that chain of cross-continuity associations should define our article structure. We'd just default to the normal continuity-family schema and make notes as appropriate. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 00:35, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::::Well, we have a separate [[:Category:Car Robots characters|category]] with all of the alternate names. We also have write ups for [[Fortress Maximus (RID)#Kiss Players|Brave Maximus's adventures in ''Kiss Players'']]. What is it you're looking for to prove we acknowledge CR as part of the G1 family? [[User:Interrobang|—Interrobang]] 00:57, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::::If you want to argue it some more, Jackpot, [[Talk:Robots_in_Disguise_(franchise)#Car_Robots|have at it]]. --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 00:58, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::::::Thanks for the link. I did indeed miss that whole discussion. But I have less than zero desire to argue against anything in it, and you're missing my point completely if you think that's what I'm even talking about. Yes, fine, we take the Japanese CR/G1 thing seriously, but even Interrobang's examples still demonstrate that we acknowledge it ''secondarily,'' through redirects and notes. The end result of that linked discussion was that we DON'T change our article structures or primary presentations to accomodate it. As opposed to the FunPub model of the multiverse, which we HAVE been allowing to dictate our presentation, at least up until the new Alpha Trion thing generated this debate. All I'm saying is that we have more than one established option for dealing with cross-continuity declarations, which means the question of how we deal with singularities isn't as open-and-shut as some think it is. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 02:20, 6 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::You do have to agree that the CR/RID thing is a special case in that it would require that we have 100-plus articles that are exactly the same other than what they're named at the top. (And X-Brawn's personality would be different.) This is not the case for multiversal stuff, since it does not require us to be redundant on such a massive scale. I'm not sure why you think our attempt at avoiding massive redundancy should dictate how we treat entirely dissimilar things. --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 09:14, 6 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::::I'm not saying that the CR-G1 thing should ''dictate'' what we do the FunPub stuff, just that it's a precedent worth considering. In fact, I believe you and I are closer in principle than you think. If we allowed the Japanese model of the multiverse to guide our presentation, we would indeed have to do this massively redundant re-org, but we've collectively decided it's not worth it, so we don't. You and I are on the same page there. What I'm doing is using the same principle to say that we likewise don't have to let the FubPub model of the multiverse make us jump up and rearrange article content every time we hear a whisper of "singularity." We can still present all the same information, but reprioritize it ''underneath'' our tried-and-true foundation of dividing articles by continuity-family.
:::::::::::::Here's an example of how this might work (I'm thinking out loud here, so don't take this as me drawing a line in the sand or whatever): In Alpha Trion's case, we could keep all the pages separate but, say, add a line to the end of each intro: "According to some sources, this Alpha Trion is the same individual as all the rest," with appropriate links. It would be more prominent than burying it in "Trivia," but not so dominant that it dictates our entire presentation. It also would give breathing room to the various ways the character has been portrayed, so the reader can get a better sense of the pieces that make up the whole, rather than get a giant, muddled, ill-conceived "whole" that we all think is kind of silly anyway. The ''Prime'' version of AT would be written up with a more multiversal slant than the rest, of course, but I don't think we'd need to jam ''everything'' onto his page to get that point across. In the end, we would still be documenting all of the info and ignoring nothing, but I think the presentation would be much more in-line with the reality of how the character has actually been written over the years.
:::::::::::::- [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 16:28, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::Yeah, I lean about the same way as Jackpot. The Multiverse thing was fine when it was just a vague umbrella to tie together a hundred different continuities. But having one story or source reach out and re-write details of half a dozen other stories at the same time? I dunno so much about that. Seems to me that things like "Alpha Trion the old doddering cartoon guy is a multiversal singularity according to whatever source" ought to be kept in a Notes box or section, not integrated alongside info that actually came directly from the G1 cartoon. -- [[User:Repowers|Repowers]] 00:15, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::There's an irony in the fact that the multiverse started as a tool for the fans to keep order and sanity in spite of the TFverse's freewheeling structure. I remember for YEARS the doctrine of "everything is canon, there are just multiple continuities" had to be diligently repeated in forum threads before it took hold in fandom zeitgeist. But now that the creators have gotten into the multiverse game without giving up the loose approach, our tool has been turned against us. There's no handy maxim to settle things anymore. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 02:20, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:It is a little bit more difficult to brush these things off when the fiction is explicitly dealing with "The [[Multiverse]]". It is officially establishing new facts in multiple timestreams. I say this as someone who doesn't always like it when long-time nameless things get retroactive names. The Alignment thing is kind of wonky. It goes beyond the Multiverse and sort of breaks the fourth wall and directly tweaks real-world information. - [[User:Starfield|Starfield]] 23:37, 5 July 2010 (EDT)

::My prediction: this Multiverse hogwash will get way too overcomplicated. It's then going to get some much tangled up, no one will ever be able to figure out anything. Giant crisis cross-over's gonna happen, DC Comics style. Continuity will get completely rebooted. The Fandom will flip their collective shit over it. I'll be here chilling while everyone's still throwing around cluster f-bombs. Don't worry about it guys, it's not our jobs to fix it, just to record it as it happens. Write it all down, let Hasbro sort it out. :P --[[User:Ascendron|Ascendron]] 02:00, 6 July 2010 (EDT)
:::I think that's already happening with ''Exodus''{{'}}s continuity mixing (although it contradicted the game lol). ''Transformers: Prime'' probably doesn't just mean the show's focus on what it means to be a Prime, but also literally being an [[Wikipedia:Earth Prime|Earth Prime]] for the multiverse. [[User:Alientraveller|Alientraveller]] 04:53, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

''Disclaimer: I like they way we have been doing things and don't mind multiversal retcons. It's all just fiction, one continuity effecting another is cool to me, and the more layers it gets the more fun, IMO.'' '''THAT SAID:''' If there's a conflict, I'm with the "ours is not to reason why (or make un-stupid) ours is but to record" crowd. When a new source changes a past source I say we give '''NEITHER''' precedence but record both with equal weight on the page. One Alpha Trion page, but we make it very clear on the page that X is what he was like in the G1 toon, and Y is what a later source says he is. Put the focus on simply '''Recording Information''' rather than prioratizing it. It may require stepping "out of universe" a little more often in our entries, but that's a good thing if it clarifies the expression of information, our main goal. (Just like how we forgo humorous picture captions when we need a real one to express something clearly to the reader.) My 2-cents.--[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 07:31, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:Just a side note, my 3rd cent if you will, this is pretty much already how we do [[Unicron]], with details of his various retconed backstories and the current story's conflicts all recorded "Out of universe" clearly and prominently on the page. Its a good model for Alpha Trion, Sideways and all to follow, IMO. --[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 09:28, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::Sound good to me. --'''[[User:TX55|TX55]]'''''[[User talk:TX55|TALK]]'' 10:42, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::I'm with Zac on this. My understanding is Alpha Trion is now officially a multiversal singularity solely because someone put up a slide with his name on it at BotCon. If that's all we've got to go on, it's obviously not going to make much sense, but that's not Hasbro's problem -- they can't make announcements in a time and manner that makes it easy for the Wiki to record the information. We just have to roll with the punches and make the changes that are necessary to reflect the official information. There's no point in complaining about the fact that this information exists; that's an issue for message boards or your blog.

::So A3 is a multiversal singularity now. Them's the breaks. If we need to do some tongue-in-cheek writing to acknowledge it (like the openings for [[Scrapper (G1)#Cartoon continuity|Scrapper]] and [[Scavenger (G1)#Cartoon continuity|Scavenger]] in their cartoon fiction section), then we do it. But arguing about this and the AAII and whether official info counts or doesn't count unless it was published in the right medium or with the right franchise header is asinine. --[[User:Xaaron|Xaaron]] 10:37, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::It's not asinine at all. Different branded fiction in the TFverse has different editorial and writing boards writing it. Different companies have different licenses to create specific types of media, explicitly not being allowed to create media they're not licensed for. Hasbro has demonstratively shown a very anal and strong hand in making sure that things like the Movie comics fit into canon. In at least one case we know of (FunPub), there are even specific mandates about which continuities can't be directly written in/for by that company and which continuities aren't affected by their fiction. So Hasbro, at least, is actually shown to be very clear about who can write in what medium and for what storyline, and what is and isn't allowed in a certain storyline.
:::Meanwhile, I have no problem acknowledging that Trion is a singularity in those continuities that have one. But the fact of the real-life situation is that not every continuity uses the concept.
:::We need to accept that the real-life factual way this all has been working up until now does not always fit tidily or work how we wish it would work. And like I said, it's our job to report on what officially happened, not our fanwank theories. Especially when this wiki is theoretically supposed to be for those fans looking for information on what actually has happened in official fiction, not what we wish would happen. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 12:05, 6 July 2010 (EDT)
::::Saying FunPub can't publish movie material b/c Hasbro won't allow it is one thing; saying material that WAS published should be ignored or disavowed is another. Again, assumptions -- you have no evidence that Hasbro said the Allspark Almanac was NOT allowed to reference other continuities, and the Almanac itself is evidence that Hasbro DID allow it. The proof is in the publication...to go beyond that is you assuming you know Hasbro's policies better than the Hasbro employees who allowed the Almanac to be printed in the first place. --[[User:Xaaron|Xaaron]] 12:27, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::Actually, it's the other way around. Since the Almanac is branded only as a guide to Animated (and thus very likely did not go through the same editorial process that the branded fiction in the other continuities goes through, only Animated's process), and Hasbro has been shown to be very anal about the info that goes into its officially branded fiction in other continuities, you need proof that Hasbro approved the Almanac as anything but a guide to Animated. Anything else is an unfounded assumption with no proof. Especially when, like I said, we instead have explicit proof that continuities are not always obligated to acknowledge cross-continuity mentions, and that some companies aren't even allowed to write any direct canon at all in some continuities.
:::::The only thing the publication of the Almanac proves is that it was approved as Animated fiction, since that's what it's branded and marketed as. Going beyond that is you assuming you know Hasbro's policies at all. Because I've never seen anything that indicates that Hasbro considers cross-continuity retcons to be binding, and in fact have seen several indications that they don't, so I sure as heck am not going to be making any assumption about that matter.
:::::On top of that, when it comes to Sentinel Major, we know 100% for certain that the Almanac was not approved by Hasbro as being binding to FunPub fiction, based on Pete stating it's not as FunPub's Head Editor, so that calls into doubt its so-called applicability to any other continuity as well. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 12:44, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::No, Jeysie...no. A thousand times no. "The only thing the publication of the Almanac proves is that it was approved <strike>as Animated fiction</strike>." You're the one assuming the Animated brand has weight and meaning beyond being a mast head. You're the one assuming Sorenson was told he can only write Animated fiction. You're the one assuming b/c FunPub has a certain type of limitation, every other publication has something similar even though we've heard nothing about that from Hasbro or the writing team. And you're the one assuming that Hasbro didn't mean to publish things it actually DID publish.
::::::All the assumptions here are on you. I don't need to prove your elaborate series of assumptions about the inner workings of Hasbro are false. You need to prove they are true. --[[User:Xaaron|Xaaron]] 13:08, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::Yes, a thousand times yes. If anyone can publish any fiction in any continuity at any time, why bother branding it or having dedicated regular writing teams or anything at all? Why not just brand everything as Transformers with zero differences and let all the writers write whatever they want in any series?
:::::::Why would Hasbro work closely with teams like the WFC folks or the Movie comic folks to make sure everything matches up the way they want it if they didn't care about the continuities of those series? Why would Hasbro do things like disallow FunPub from writing their own OC ever again because they want to use him in their new continuity? Why would they turn around and give one-liner cameos in completely unrelated fiction a free pass to affect those other continuities?
:::::::Yes, I do assume that the Animated brand has weight beyond being a masthead. If this very wiki assumes that the logo has meaning for the toys, why is the fiction about those toys magically exempt? It fits into franchises exactly the same way, and indeed we actually have made decisions on this very precept. (The discussion of treating the ROTF toys ''and fiction'' as separate from the 2K7 line, and whether we should treat the SG ''fiction'' as SG vs. as Timelines-branded fiction comes to mind off the top of my head.)
:::::::Not only that, but the Almanac is very clearly being marketed to customers as being based in Animated, as a guide to Animated. There's literally nothing about the Almanac at all that says customers should be expected, in a marketing sense, to treat it as also being a guide to anything else; no extra official logos, I'm assuming no editorial note to the effect in the book (if anything, we had the exact opposite statement from Sorenson himself!), etc.
:::::::On top of that, like I said, Mowry got ridden to keep continuity in his Movie comics. So basically, to reiterate, you're trying to tell me that the guy tapped to write directly-branded fiction gets paid close attention to by Hasbro, but an admitted throwaway joke in a completely different continuity that contradicts officially-branded Movie fiction gets waved through, no worries?
:::::::And again, like I said for the umpteenth time, we have '''direct evidence''' that no, the Almanac is not canon for all other continuities, and that no, other continuities don't necessarily have to care what fiction in other continuities do.
:::::::And I have proved that my assumptions are true, based on, like I've already said umpteen times, direct evidence of how Hasbro has handled things. I've given you evidence of licensing restrictions, continuity restrictions, how Hasbro edits the canon for each storyline, how some continuities explicitly don't acknowledge others, etc.
:::::::Meanwhile, all you've given me is your assumptions based on... well, nothing at all except your own assumptions. I'd say the burden of proof is on you, bub. You've been feeding me nothing but a lot of illogical statements that make no sense compared to how writing a storyline actually works or even how the treatment of the various bits of fiction by the licensees and Hasbro has been shown to work in reality. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 14:48, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::::Yes. Very much so. And more, why we should care over the simple and logical: "Hasbro aproves it, then its canon for whatever continuity(ies) it says it is." rule we have now.--[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 14:29, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::::Because it's not logical at all.
:::::::::The logical thing to do is assume that what's canon for a continuity is the official fiction for that continuity and what the people actually writing said fiction have said is canon. Because that way you're getting the fiction how it was supposed to be presented in a literary sense, in terms of what the people actually writing it intended as canon for their story.
:::::::::Meanwhile, there's absolutely zero logical about assuming that someone who has no connection at all to the regular writing or editing of a story should know anything about it or should make an official contribution to it. Nor is there anything logical about assuming to be part of a story things that were never intended to be in it.
:::::::::I mean, for heavens sake, the various writers can't even keep their ''own'' continuities straight half the time, and we have lots of errors in stories that were explicitly meant to go together. Why compound the problem by linking together things that ''weren't'' meant to go together? It makes no sense at all from a literary standpoint, from a practical standpoint, or from the standpoint of a casual reader who wants to know what actually happened in a certain continuity, not what we fans think happened based on fanon speculation. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 14:58, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::I'd agree. [[Prowl II]] was pretty much the same "two different guys smashed together into one big continuity monster because of a reference book" situation, and nobody's split him back up into Chip Chase-in-a-Prowl-suit and Prowl the Owl. [[User:Omnibus|Omnibus]] 11:35, 6 July 2010 (EDT)
::::Gotta go with Zac and company here. These things have been said, we need to record it. Put any notes about possible problems and confusions, but I don't see how to get around the bare fact that it has been done. --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 11:39, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::If this is such a big deal, for Sideways, might I suggest considering something similar to what we did with [[Ramulus]]'s page, because of the ambiguity of his identity as Longhorn? Two seperate pages, but still presented with the facts that we know of them being hinted as the same character. Or heck, even [[Lazorbeak]] has a nice note noting that he may-or-may-not-be the original Laserbeak. It's not like we have just two options in this matter really. --[[User:Ascendron|Ascendron]] 13:05, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:Quoting Zac: ''When a new source changes a past source I say we give '''NEITHER''' precedence but record both with equal weight on the page. One Alpha Trion page, but we make it very clear on the page that X is what he was like in the G1 toon, and Y is what a later source says he is.'' It's impossible NOT to prioritize. By advocating the merging of singularity pages, you're giving priority to that kind of retcon. That's really what all of this is about - no one is saying we should IGNORE canon information, just that we should think twice about letting every new multiversal declaration make us rearrange how we structure our presentation. See my proposal above - there are other ways of doing this. It's a pure strawman to say that anything other than page-merging is anti-canon chaos. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 16:47, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

<nowiki>*</nowiki>wearily just gestures that she thinks Jackpot's arguments and suggestions make sense* --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 16:55, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

=== Does Hasbro Matter? ===

''(Moved down from earlier in the down in an attempt to keep things organized.)''

:::::Exactly. That's why Jeysies idea of how continuity should work strikes me as very very '''wrong'''. The ONLY way we have of determining what is official canon in TF is by what Hasbro officially publishes. PERIOD. If you start allowing people to say "Hasbro didn't really ''mean'' that" or "Hasbro didn't know what they were saying" or "Hasbro didn't mean to approve what they clearly approved" then you open up EVERYTHING ABOUT EVERYTHING to any interpretation or negation that any fan wants to pull out of nowhere. That way lies complete dissolution of all meaning and canon. You don't know better that Hasbro what they mean or what's "right". Feel free to HATE retcons and multi-sings but they exist: Hasbro MADE THEM and HAS THE RIGHT TO MAKE THEM and so it is this wiki's purpose to record that, not put our heads in the sand and imagine "they can't do that" shape the fiction into the shape we'd prefer.--[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 12:47, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::Well, you know, I'm only going by the real-life facts of how the reality actually works regards Hasbro's licenses, different editorial and writing boards, different brandings on each fiction, statements from actual creators (including Sorenson himself), etc. But I guess clearly our pet fanwank takes precedent over the facts and reality presented to us by the people actually officially creating the fiction?
::::::I mean, like I said above, we already have one instance where we know 100% for certain that what was written in the Almanac is not canon for a non-Animated continuity. And even Sorenson stated himself that the jokey references were just that: jokey references.
::::::No, I don't know for sure what Hasbro's full policies are. Just that, unlike you folks, I'm thus playing it safe and only assuming what we have proof to assume, based on actual real-world facts.
::::::I don't hate retcons or the multiversal concept. Nor am I basing my case on which retcons I do and don't like: for instance, I hate McCarthy's retcons, but since he's a writer hired specifically to write in IDW's G1 continuity, his retcons are nonetheless considered by the people actually creating the continuity as canon for that continuity.
::::::I am just stating that we have zero proof that said retcons or concepts absolutely have to apply to anything but the specific continuities they were presented in, and instead plenty of proof that in many cases they explicitly ''don't'' apply outside their specific continuities. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 12:59, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::Yes Hasbro controls who publishes what. Of course they do. No one is arguing otherwise. That doesn't matter at all and SHOULDN'T matter at all as far as the wiki is concerned. What matters is '''what they alowed to be published.''' If its published, its canon. If something is published that is a mostly an Animated story but touches on G1 continuity because of dimensional travel that DOSN'T mean it isn't G1 canon because it was "An Animated" story, it means that the story was a "G1 and Animated crossover story" and what it said is canon to both. If Hasbro says something is a Multiversal Singularity and that this means there is only ONE if it in ALL continuities, than we have to accept that this means what it says: ALL CONTINUITIES.

:::::If we start assuming that not everything Hasbro publishes is canon, or that they "Maybe did't mean that, really" then we have no way to diffentiate official from fanon at all. We've never had a rule about one branded fiction "not being able to effect" other branded canon because 1) thats counter to the whole Multiverse idea that Hasbro's very much embraced, and 2) Hasbro themselves clearly DO NOT have such a rule in 99% of cases, or they wouldn't approve so many dimension hopping character or stories. Hasbro does approve stories where continuities cross over and effect one another and that retcon past continuities (like it or not) so they are canon and its our job to record them as we are given them. Not to make value judgements about how much Hasbro "meant them". --[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 13:09, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::Again, as I've stated several times already, I never said some things weren't canon. But ''which continuity they're canon for'' is the question.
::::::I mean, I've absolutely no argument whatsoever at all about the info in the Almanac being canon for Animated, seeing as how it's branded with the Animated logo. So I'm not saying that the Almanac isn't canon. But that means zero about whether it's canon ''for any other continuity''. And we know in at least one instance it ''explicitly isn't''.
::::::And, *facepalm* Like I said, some continuities have explicitly actually been stated as ''not'' being a part of or beholden to the multiversal concept or cross-continuity retcons. And just because one continuity does dimension-hopping doesn't mean any other continuity is obligated to actually care. Each storyline has a separate set of dedicated writers and editors all doing their own thing. We have no evidence showing they ''have'' to pay attention to each other (though some obviously choose to), and some evidence of cases where they quite explicitly don't. That's the whole reason to for continuities and micro-continuities and splinter continuities in the first place, acknowledging that something that's canon for one continuity may not be canon for another. We just need to finally accept that reality across the board.
::::::Also, when we do this sort of cross-continuity retcon, we're accepting the thought that people who are not part of a continuity's dedicated regular writers and editors and thus probably know nothing about what those people are doing with their storyline still know what's going on in it canonically. Even more moronically, sometimes we even do this over the word of the people ''actually writing the contested storyline''! If people can't realize how utterly stupid that is (I mean, just because I'm officially writing in one continuity doesn't mean I know jack about what the writing team in another continuity is doing)...
::::::And no, saying that Hasbro's word goes doesn't mean anything, because if Hasbro were really truly mandating all of these cross-continuity things, then the people writing those other continuities ''would be forced to use them and thus wouldn't be claiming they don't apply or contradicting them in the actual fiction''. I would think this would be obvious logic... --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 13:34, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::To address your points in order:

:::::::1) Anything aproved by Hasbro is canon. We both agree there, yes? Why, then, do you think there is debate about what continuity it is canon for? If Hasbro publishes a story that touches on any and all continuites then '''it is canon for those continuities'''. Were they to have, say, RiD and BW crossover than YES it IS DEFINATLY canon for both RiD and BW. Why? Because that's what they published. To imagine anything else is counter intuitive, overly complicated, and putting the determining factor for canon on US rather than Hasbro, which is WRONG. You don't have to like it, but there it is. Any other way is uselessly arbitrary and complex.

:::::::2)No I do not believe any continuity has been confirmed by Hasbro to be outside the Multiverse. If fact they've said the opposite, that the multiverse contains all TF universes. And that Singularities specifically exist in All Continuities. (Thats what it MEANS.) FP said informally they wouldn't touch the movie stuff with their fiction because the Movie stuff is an exceptional really complicated issue driven by outside powers, that's not saying that its outside the multiversal stuff, as Hasbro has specifically published a SCRAP-TON of stuff connecting the movie continuity family to the greater multiverse.

:::::::3)Sorry to be blunt but I don't think Creators mater here at all. They're totally beside the point. "Dedicated fiction teams" (in the rare cases they exist) don't matter. They're all "work for hire" folks who come and go. Hasbro is the authority on whats canon. They have to be or there is no canon.

:::::::4)Your final paragraph above is absolutly wrong and missing the point IMO. The only way we have and ''have ever had'' of establishing what is official TF canon is by what Hasbro approves. It doesn't matter if they "enforce" a storyline on every writer for it to be canon. All that matters is that they approve it to be published. That's what makes canon. Thats the only thing that can make canon. If you start doing what you're doing and saying "Oh they can't really mean that, because x" or "they can't let x writer retcon the work of y writer" then you are making yourself the judge of canon and it stops being official canon. We have to stick to "Everything Hasbro publishes is official canon for the universe (all universes) that the story says it is" or we're just making up fanon. --[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 14:19, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:1. Because we the wiki DOES debate what continuity something is canon for. Why do we have continuity families, continuities, micro-continuities, splinter timelines, etc. at all if we don't care about what goes in what continuity? Why did we split up ROTF from 2K7--both the toys AND the fiction--if the branding doesn't matter? Why did we debate whether SG--again, both toys AND fiction--counts as SG or Timelines based on how the fiction is branded if the branding doesn't matter?
:To me, assuming that fiction in one continuity somehow affects fiction in another continuity is what is extremely counter-intuitive, based on both my personal experience as a writer and my experience of what has happened in real-life vs. what the actual creators themselves have said about how various bits of fiction do and don't fit together.
:It is, however, completely intuitive to assume that if a bit of fiction is branded for a continuity, it's canon for THAT continuity. That's the whole damn point of the branding to begin with, to signal to readers that this fiction, this toy, this tech spec, belongs to THIS certain franchise/universe/continuity.
:As for it being overly complicated, I actually consider it more overly complicated to do lots of fanwank academic gymnastics to try and figure out how to things that were never meant to fit together and might well be completely contradictory fit together after all. Like I've said elsewhere, it's not as if stories that actually ''were'' meant to fit together don't manage to have enough errors already anyway, without us helping things along.
:I will concede it might be more complicated for us to catalog, but tough shit, reality doesn't always play nice with what you want.
:2. I've never heard a single statement that says all continuities have to include the multiversal concept. Meanwhile, I've seen plenty of evidence to the contrary. That the Movies are outside of the multiversal idea. That bits of the Almanac explicitly aren't canon for some continuities. Statements from creators about their own continuities... who, like I said, would not be making those statements if Hasbro had actually mandated differently to them.
:3. XD You can't be serious. Yes, the people directly writing each continuity matter because, um, you know, they're the ones ''actually writing the stories''. Dur. Yes, writing teams change, but they change ''within those continuities''. For instance, when McCarthy took over for Furman, he took over under IDW's editorial, writing for IDW's storyline. He didn't take over for Animated, he didn't take over for the Movies, he isn't working for Prime, he doesn't work for FunPub. He's the new guy for a specific company under a specific editor for a specific continuity.
:And yes, what Hasbro says is canon. For some continuity. And again, if Hasbro was actually mandating all these cross-continuity claims, we wouldn't even be having this debate to begin with because ''all of the fiction and statements from the creators would reflect that'' so there would be no argument. I've seen plenty of evidence that Hasbro cares very much about what goes on in certain specific continuities. I've seen no evidence at all of Hasbro mandating cross-continuity things, however, and in fact just the opposite.
:4. Just the opposite, it's utterly making up fanon to assume that things branded as one continuity have any affect at all on a completely different continuity, even when those people claim different or even write official fiction stating differently. It's fanon to assume that we fans or people not assigned to write directly for a continuity know better about what is planned for that other continuity than the people who actually are writing for that continuity. (Not to mention, to be quite blunt about it, just plain fucking stupid.) --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 15:23, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::From your second point; if the movies are outside the multiverse idea, why do at least two multiversal singularities appear in it? Or do Unicron and the Fallen not count? -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 17:27, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::I think [[Talk:Thirteen original Transformers#Another perspective on Multiuniversal Singularities|this covers it pretty well]]. But the short version, they're versions of Unicron and the Fallen who aren't singularities. Pretty simple. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 17:55, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::The writing in one continuity does not affect any other continuity/ies.... ''except when it does''. Animated Arcee being a schoolteacher does not make G1 Arcee a schoolteacher. A god warping the fabric of reality such that every entity ever named Arcee is now said to have been a schoolteacher DOES make G1 Arcee a schoolteacher. Sideways being long-established for years as having had the power to warp from one continuity to the next means that he actually can do that, and the things he's said to do in some continuity he hadn't visited earlier can certainly be attributed to him, being there, doing it. If the writers go all-out along those lines and it gets published, then it is canon. I know there's a fair amount of author-intent debating here every now and then, but I don't think "in-continuity author intent supremacy" is a popularly-held viewpoint, let alone one stable enough on which to build this wiki in the future. We would certainly have to un-happen Beast Machines, which we're bloody well not. --[[User:Thylacine 2000|Thylacine 2000]] 15:36, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::I can't speak for Jeysie's view, but I do think that series-integrity should be given higher priority than we currenty do, and I see absolutely no need to "un-happen ''Beast Machines''." The changes being discussed are a lot subtler than that. As I see it, all we need to do to maintain BW's integrity despite BM's retcons is just to make sure we don't, for example, talk about the Allspark in a section titled "''Beast Wars'' cartoon". Which is pretty much how it is now, so no big deal. Where this really comes into play is the singularity stuff; jamming everything into a single article fosters a sense of retcon-supremacy. If it's our goal to try to present the multiverse as a single, cohesive whole, then yes, I would agree that the retcons should be given primacy. But I see no particular reason to give that conceit so much weight. Each series has its own view of the multiverse (or none at all), and it's a ''choice'' on our part as to how to present it when one series's multiverse-model treads on another series's territory. We don't have the choice of ''ignoring'' it... but we do have options for how it affects our presentation. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 17:38, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::I can't speak in detail about something like BM, not having seen it, but again, I think you covered my viewpoint pretty well. I'm not saying we should flat out ignore any canon. But there ''is'' a difference between simply mentioning a given detail somehow, and treating that given detail as major enough in a certain continuity to affect our organization.
::::I feel like cross-continuity things should almost always be the former rather than the latter unless we really have solid, official reason to treat a cross-continuity detail as being major for that other continuity. (As in, corroboration from fiction branded with that continuity or someone who regularly deals with that other continuity, not just a mere mention in whatever publication in a separate continuity.)
::::Especially since, it just doesn't hurt us at all to play it safe this way. We're not ignoring the info. We're not presenting it as being not valid at all. We're just reasonably not taking a firm stance on something, especially a major difference, unless we have really solid reason to know it's the case. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 18:04, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::Sure. I just discovered the debate over on [[Talk:Sideways#Talk:Sideways (ROTF)|Talk:Sideways]], and that actually provides a good example: I have no problem with ''Animated'' Sideways being on the UT Sideways page because ''Animated'' took the UT dimension-hopper thing and ran with it. However, I'd prefer that the live-action Sideways NOT be on the same page because the movieverse doesn't acknowledge the connection. Yes, let's absolutely document the retcon, but make it a link instead of a merger. That way, the information is still conveyed, but we let series-integrity define our presentation instead of the mythical idea of a consistent, unified multiverse. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 18:21, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::You are actually pretty badly misrepresenting the discussion there. We aren't saying that Movie Sideways isn't UT Sideways because the Movie universe says so, we're saying that they aren't the same because the evidence presented in the AAII doesn't prove that he is beyond a shadow of a doubt. All it says is that the was planning to go to Shanghai, but that Shanghai could be in the UT, RiD, Animated or Robot Masters universes just as easily as the Movie universe. We're not saying definitively that they are not the same guy, just that there is not enough evidence to prove he is. -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 19:01, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::I'm not trying to represent your arguments at all. I'm defining my own answer on my own terms. For what it's worth, I see the phrase "the same guy" as an... overly-simplistic way of looking at the question. Different series provide different views of who's the "same" as who, and my suggestions are keyed to preserving those differences of perspective. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 19:21, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::::So then why even bother brining the discussion up? You may as well have cited Weekend at Bernie's. -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 19:23, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

===Jackpot's Guide to the Multiverse===
In the discussion above, I started piecing together a sensible approach to dealing with cross-continuity issues, but it's kind of scattered and buried up there, so I figured I'd spell out the principles I'm working with:

'''1) By default, articles should be separated from each other by continuity-family.'''

I don't expect much disagreement here, since it's how we actually do things 99% of the time. There are of course exceptions when the subject is sufficiently universal, like [[Cybertron (planet)]]. And at the moment, we also make exceptions for [[Multiversal singularity|singularities]] and dimension-hoppers. I only bring the principle up to say that when I advocate separating articles, this is the standard I'm falling back on.

'''2) Everything with a Hasbro trademark is canon, and we should document it.'''

Pretty sure we're all together on this one. The thorny issue is HOW to document it.

'''3) Each series should be presented as it presents itself.'''

Again, this is pretty much how we already do things. When we talk about Starscream [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|in the context of the G1 'toon]], he's a "ghost," but when it's [[Starscream (G1)#Beast Wars cartoon|in a BW context]], he's a "spark." Where we're starting to see problems is with singularities and dimension-hoppers. For example, the ''Animated Almanac'' strongly suggests that [[Sideways (RID)#Animated|its version of Sideways]] is the same individual as his [[Sideways (ROTF)|movieverse namesake]]. But within the movieverse, there's zero evidence of any connection. There's been [[Talk:Sideways (RID)#ROTF Sideways is not UT Sideways|debate]] over whether the ''Almanac'' claim is "proof" or just an "Easter egg," but let's assume for sake of argument that it's an ironclad declaration. In that case, one series's self-presentation contradicts another's. Our job is to present them both, each with the prominence that it merits, no matter how at-odds they may be. Which leads to the next point...

'''4) There is no single, consistent multiverse.'''

I think this is my most controversial notion. Almost every argument I've seen in favor of merging articles rests on the assumption that continuity is a two-way street: If one source makes a statement about another universe, then by gum that other universe needs to be roped in. But the reality is that TF fiction comprises a bunch of independent series written with little or no regard to each other, each with its own view of the multiverse (or lack thereof). For example, it was brought up in [[Talk:Thirteen original Transformers#Alpha Trion|this discussion]] that Pete Sinclair, when pressed about how [[Nexus Prime]] related to the [[Dynasty of Primes]], dismissed the live-action universe as [http://www.allspark.com/forums/index.php?s=e9b629aca941d8a17156fb5d9a62cbba&showtopic=64273&st=20&p=1388259&#entry1388259 "outside the multiverse." ] This statement is of course not canon, but it illustrates the real-life situation, where Orci and Kurtzman didn't get the memo about what was going on in the fan-club comic while they were writing the movies. It's the reason why trying to conform our presentation to the mirage of a unified multiverse will always end in buttache and fire.

'''6) Merging articles for a retcon's sake gives priority to that retcon.'''

No matter how diligent we are about disclaimers throughout a merged article, the fact that readers are presented with all the guys on one page tells them that ''primarily'' they're the same character. I don't think this is merited if the connection isn't supported in all cases. Let's use a new example: [[Alpha Trion (disambiguation)|Alpha Trion]]. He's had many incarnations, always as an elderly sage, sometimes with mystical overtones, but with no specific uniqueness other than being super old. In fact, he even got an [[Alpha Trion (SG)|evil incarnation]] like lots of other ordinary characters. But now the [[Transformers: Prime|''Prime'' universe]] has a version that seems to be a singularity. If we merged them all because of this, then that would override the primary nature of the pre-''Prime'' A3s as individuals in their native contexts. This is what I've been referring to in the debate as "series integrity," per point #3. So instead...

'''7) Links can serve instead of mergers to document a multiversal connection.'''

This seems obvious to me, but since some people seem to think that multiversal claims necessitate mergers for some reason, I figured I'd say it. In the Alpha Trion example, my answer is to link all of the pre-''Prime'' A3s to the ''Prime'' one, and have the ''Prime'' one link out to all the rest (or just the disambig page). Then we could let the tone of each article to reflect the degree or absence of connection appropriate to its source material.

So let's bring this all together into a simple rule...

'''THEREFORE: If a cross-continuity claim goes both ways, then the pages should be merged. If it's one-sided, then they should be separate but linked.'''

For an example of "going both ways," we can look at Sideways again: When the ''Almanac'' used the character, his dimension-hopping had already been established. So saying that he stopped off in the ''Animated'' universe was barely a retcon at all; it just added a stamp to his passport. I think that calls for a merger with the "(RID)" article. But because the movieverse presents its Sideways as an independent character, he deserves his own page with his own intro, mainpic, toy section, etc., no matter how strongly the ''Animated'' universe may claim him. We should certainly LINK the two, but again, with the prominence it merits within each context. If we decided the ''Almanac'' wording was watertight, then we would make the link on the ''Animated'' page fairly in-your-face, something in the intro, bold, blink-tagged, with a trumpet MIDI. But the movieverse page should have a quieter link, maybe down in "Notes"/"Trivia".

Oh, and '''COROLLARY: If there's ever any uncertainty about whether a situation counts as "both ways," we should default to linked separation, per #1.'''

So that's where I'm coming from. I used the Sideways and A3 examples because they made handy illustrations, and I don't mean to represent all the nuances of their own debates. The point was to give practical examples of how my principles can be applied to ALL singularities and dimension-hoppers. The more Hasbro gets into the multiverse business, the more we're going to have to deal with this shit, and I think this is a solid guide that will help prevent future battles if we can agree to it. Of course I'm open to suggestions - I don't mean to say that This Is My Conviction or whatever - but nothing else I've seen so far makes as much sense to me. Agree/disagree? Discuss!

- [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 21:20, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

====The Debate, part the first, wherein Semysane complains about length and Jeysie complains about Semysane====

:I'm sorry, that was a bit TL;DR. Is this a blog now? -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 23:11, 7 July 2010 (EDT)
::<nowiki>*</nowiki>eyeroll* I hate "Too long, too lazy ass to read" butthurt. Look, are you over the age of 10? If so, it's not going to kill you to be expected to use your brain and read more than a few sentences, especially when someone's rightfully trying to explain their reasoning behind what would be a major change in how we do things. Suck it up. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 23:39, 7 July 2010 (EDT)
:::I'm sorry I don't have the time to read all day about fucking toys. If you would like to pay for my food, rent, clothes and internet FOR me, then I'd be more than willing to read a novella on retcons. Until then, stop insulting me. -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 01:26, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::Guess what? If you don't have the time to read and pay attention to a conversation, then here's a thought: don't participate in it. Wow, what a crazy thought. There's the door over there.
::::As for the insulting, pot, kettle, black. You insulted the post, I insulted your lazy whining. Don't dish it out if you can't take it. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 01:48, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::What's your damn problem? Who died and made you the lord and master here? "There's the door?" Why the hell does this have to turn into ad-hominem assaults? All I said was that the post was long. I honestly don't see why you would flip your shit over that. -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 01:58, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::You came in here and insulted the post by wondering when the wiki turned into a blog, instead of actually contributing something useful, so please stop acting like you have the high ground.
::::::For two, like I said, if you don't have time to participate, then instead of wasting your time and ours making a pointless whiny insulting complaint about OMG someone daring to expect you to read more than a few sentences, why not just... not post? I mean, dur. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 02:08, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::Oh, I'm ''sorry!'' I didn't realize that I should have given time to some blowhard telling us how we should completely throw out how we've done things from day one '''BECAUSE HE SAID SO'''! My sincerest apologies! -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 02:26, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::::Hey, here's a thought. Both of you knock it off or there's some timeouts coming. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 02:29, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

====The Debate, part the second, wherein Sorenson and Jeysie lay out the basic thrust of the pros and cons of the proposal and others weigh in====

::I kind of like it. It helps as a sort of guide on the whole MC-classifying thing. --[[User:Lonegamer78|Lonegamer78]] 23:22, 7 July 2010 (EDT)
:::Yeah, me too, it makes an incredible amount of sense. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 23:39, 7 July 2010 (EDT)
::::I like the logic; it's clear and concise. However, I don't agree with it. If you take this idea to its logical conclusion, it means that we basically, more or less, ignore all retcons. Or, at the very least, it means that we need duplicative pages. For instance, The Nemesis wasn't named in the G1 cartoon. Its name came from Beast Wars. To really follow your thought process, merging the Nemesis, the ship named in Beast Wars, with the unnamed Decepticon cruiser introduced in a different series, would be 'giving priority to that retcon.' I think it's far more interesting, useful and informative to have those concepts as the same article, rather than splitting them. I'll also point out that the Ark was never named in the Sunbow cartoon, so we'd have to split that from the Marvel Comics. There are undoubtedly a ton of other examples like this.
::::(It's possible that you meant for your point four to apply exclusively to cross continuity-family mergers and retcons. You don't say this, but even if you meant it, in my mind that's a false distinction. Cross series is cross series, be it G1 to G1, G1 to RID, Animated to Movie or whatever.)--[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 00:33, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::I think it's far more interesting, useful, and informative to be ''accurate''. IMHO we should be making our arguments based on what presents the information in the most accurate and least fan speculation/assuming way, not based on how tidy or convenient it is or isn't. IMHO we should bend to fit the information, not bend the information to fit us. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 00:44, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::That's a complete strawman argument. It's not ''inaccurate'' to retroactively apply the name The Ark to the ship from the Sunbow cartoon. It's a choice of two different organizational schemas, both of which have pros and cons. When dealing with organizational issues, tidy and convenient ''are'' valid goals.--[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 01:01, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::It's potentially inaccurate whenever it forces us to make a completely fanon decision that one bit of information is "more canon" than another bit, instead of treating all info as equally canon. See Jackpot's point #6. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 01:25, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::::It's ''actually'' inaccurate to refuse to user our judgment to merge two effectively identical concepts, such as The Ark (Marvel comics) and Unnamed Autobot ship (Sunbow), just because one was named and one wasn't. It's a completely "fanon" decision to decide that they're two different ideas, just as it's a completely "fanon" decision to decide that they're the same idea. Being unwilling to commit to a position is itself a position, and not a very useful, informative, or interesting one. --[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 01:52, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::Being unwilling to commit to a position when there is no solid information to go on is the honest and accurate position. It's our job to catalog canon, period, not our fanon theories. (Basically, it's less fanon to assume they're different than it is to assume they're the same without solid canon proof.)
:::::::::It's useful and informative to present canon as-is. People come here to learn what canon says, not to read our fanon theories on things. (As for interesting, I think it's more interesting to read about TF fiction and what the creators intended, personally, rather than read people's fanon theories.) --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 02:00, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::I'm not sure you know what fanon means, based on your usage of it here. No one here is seriously advocating just making things up and hurling them around willy-nilly. But when you have two positions, both of which have evidence, choosing one over the other is not fanon. Fanon is saying "Dion is Ultra Magnus" and then linking those pages. Interpreting canon is saying "Oh, there is an Decepticon spaceship in Beast Wars named The Nemesis, and an EXTREMELY similar ship in the Sunbow cartoon with the same backstory... let's treat them as the same thing." Interpreting canon != fanon. --[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 02:35, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::Bluntly, there's also a point where it's "come the fuck on" and not making the link is either pussyfooting or bullheadedness, and both lead to a disorganized, unfriendly mess of a wiki with a million scattered pages for the same concepts. Plus it's rather insulting to one's intelligence after a point. I don't have "solid" proof the sun will rise tomorrow, but you know, if I were to place a bet... --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 02:41, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::I agree with a some of it but if it's not a "consistent Multiverse" then what is the point of having one? That would essentially make the Thirteen and so on less then Multiversal even though they have been stated canonically to exist in such a manner. [[User:MrBlud|MrBlud]] 04:02, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::::Yeah, the logic is good in a lot of ways, I don't deny that, but Jim and MrBlud raise very good objections as well. As Blud said, it's not really the "multiverse" if it doesn't contain everything. That's what the multiverse IS. Thats entirely what it means, and downplaying that this much feels like our chooseing to really diminis the whole concept. Even more worying, Like Jim says, it IS just as subjective to group things together as to seperate them. It's just a difference of interpretation. If you set the bar so high for seperating everything though it's a very destructive rule. In our continuity article we talk about how assuming anything is in continuity with anything else even within a singular series IS really just an assumpion. The approach to continuity we have been using is a constructive one (Continuities and future material can build on one another. Alla G1 and BW). To switch to an entirely devisive model opens both issues of revamping lots of pages but also destroying many comon sense connections such as those Jim mentions in an overzelous OCD nead to keep everything from touching. It's not unworkable but as an idea it has very worring potential and at least as much room for abuse and stupidity as our current constructive format.--[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 08:29, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::::::Agreed, the basic premise is valid but there are problems with applying without reservation. Jim, in particular, raises the quite valid point that if we truly follow this, then we really need to split off a couple thousand pages. The thing to remember is at some point you're doing more harm than good by keeping things separate. Have your examples reached that point, I don't know. But I want to leave the possibility open to combine them if evidence keeps piling up in favor of it. --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 08:33, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::::::::Links can be used instead of mergers / same-naming for ''highly contested cases'', like the recent Sideways flap. But as Jim noted, arguing that the Sunbow ship ISN'T the Ark just seems like an exercise in deliberate obtuseness that inhibits the clarity and usefulness of this wiki. There is a TON of canon evidence that it's the Ark, from the Ultimate Guide to Beast Wars to the Titanium toy. In an instance where a retcon does not actually OPPOSE pre-existing information in the retconned storyline--because there was none--I cannot think of any valid reason to exclude it. I can see debating an oppositional retcon, like Primus vs. Unicron; however, that particular one has been well established foundationally for so many years that, again, trying to split it out now would only get in the way of conveying any facts at all. As long as we sufficiently annotate all such material instead of trying to seamlessly pass it off as perfect revealed in-universe truth, I see no problem with it. I '''HATE''' the concept of the Vok being the Swarm, it adds nothing to the series except some pretty agonizing internal contradictions that were totally, totally unnecessary. But there it is. So--we mention it, we discuss and/or annotate the potential problems, and that's that. As long as readers can be made fully aware of any controversy that has actual ''impact'' on the storylines, we are in the clear and our approach "works". --[[User:Thylacine 2000|Thylacine 2000]] 10:43, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::Jackpot's guide is how I view the multiverse, I also don't think it is a two-way street. I think the Nemesis situation is different. The ship played the same general role in the comic and cartoon, so it is appropriate to be on the same page—just like cartoon Megatron and comic Megatron. Beast Wars doesn't say the ship crossed from the cartoon to the comic or anything. But we could make it more clear. On the ''Nemesis'' page there should be clear notes, preferably at the top of both the cartoon and Marvel comics sections, stating that the ship had no name in those continuities and was named later. There currently isn't such a note. I would also prefer the name ''Nemesis'' wasn't used in the cartoon and Marvel comics fiction sections, but that isn't a big deal. Well done Jackpot. - [[User:Starfield|Starfield]] 10:53, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::I have a minor quibble with #2. [[Bendy-Bus Prime]] is a Transformer, but I believe he is all Paramount and no Hasbro. Is he canon? Maybe he isn't, I don't know. - [[User:Starfield|Starfield]] 10:53, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

====The Debate, part the third, wherein Sorenson suggests sandboxing, Sipher laments repetitive arguments, and Jeysie bemoans what may occur in the future should the proposal not be accepted====

OK, it looks like, after a bit of back and forth, most of the users see the inherent problems with the proposal. As I implied, it actually has a certain intellectual appeal, I just think that in ''application'' it would do us more harm than good. I think the current system is clear maybe 99% of the time, and occasionally leads to arguments on corner cases. My instinct is that the proposed change would be clear maybe 80% to 90% of the time.

My suggestion is to take a very small multiuniversal franchise and then sandbox it up. Robot Masters has only 49 pages, including 34 characters, a few pieces of fiction and some other notions introduced. If you (any of the proponents) are really seriously considering having us rework several thousand pages and having probably a lot more arguments, I think that sandboxing out 49 pages first to see how they'd work isn't unreasonable.--[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 11:02, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

:"''As I implied, it actually has a certain intellectual appeal, I just think that in ''application'' it would do us more harm than good. I think the current system is clear maybe 99% of the time, and occasionally leads to arguments on corner cases. My instinct is that the proposed change would be clear maybe 80% to 90% of the time.''" 
::Personally, I think your "99%" estimate is off. It's more like 99.999999999%. So basically, just like '''every other time ever''' someone has proposed a massive organizational change to the wiki in order to try and account for a single instance of something the current system can't handle (something every system possible will have), we're looking at more harm and work for a "payoff" that isn't remotely worth the effort, one that will obfuscate information and make the wiki on an already-complex and expansive subject even less readable. I'm deja-vu'ing here bigtime. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 11:26, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

:Seems to me like we're actually pretty evenly split on people who think it's a good idea, people who don't, and people who see the logic but also see some issues to iron out, but OK. But I agree that sandboxing is probably a good idea.
:As for Sipher's point, the problem is, as the thing with SG Alpha Trion shows, Hasbro doesn't care about cohesion the way we do, and it might well start becoming more and more of a problem in the future considering the directions Hasbro's been taking.
:The simple fact is that, in real-world terms, there ''isn't'' a consistent universe. There's HOW many storylines going on at the same time at the moment, on varying schedules and with varying teams on how many different parts of the planet? Considering companies like IDW can barely even keep their *own* writers matching up with each other... even if Hasbro really did want to make sure everything 100% matched up with everything else, I'm not sure they actually could pull it off with the current setup.
:Plus, on top of that, Hasbro obviously just throws things together because they like how it looks together, not because it actually works at all with previous canon. And as Hasbro starts doing more of this cross-continuity stuff, the problem's just going to get worse and worse.
:The more we try to stick to our conceit while Hasbro's busy tying things in knots, the more ridiculous our gymnastics to keep it all straight are going to get. I've already wanted to cringe at some of the gymnastics I've seen on Trion alone. (Like the notion that somehow Lee knew when creating a character three years ago from a toy with a vague bio, that Animated would get cancelled and we'd have an entirely new show that needed a new origin story novel. Or something.) And the discussion on Sentinel Major and Sideways shows how much a clusterfuck it can get when we're busy trying to combine things based on whose fan speculation makes more sense than whose, rather than going by solely the actual canon and authors.
:I think we tend to give Hasbro much more credit in planning all this stuff out than they've ever shown, well, ever. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 11:51, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

::"''the problem is, as the thing with SG Alpha Trion shows, Hasbro doesn't care about cohesion the way we do,''" 
::I'm just going to say that I know for a fact this is patently untrue, and the whole story is not yet told. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 16:03, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

:::Yeah, I don't know what Sipher knows, or anything, but I find it ''very'' hard to believe that the internal Hasbro dude who has basically been responsible for the whole singularity/thirteen thing, being the same guy who wrote the bios that indicated Alpha Trion was one of the thirteen before Exodus confirmed it, wrote a story about Trion being evil ''without'' having some greater plan or rationale in mind. - [[User:Chris McFeely|Chris McFeely]] 16:07, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

::::Exactly. The reason MS Alpha Trion seems so messed up right now is because we know zilch about the details of the concept. Correct me if I'm wrong, but all we're going on is one slide at BotCon with his name on a list of confirmed Thirteen. ''Clearly'', there's going to be more to it than that...we just haven't been told yet. There's a difference between "Hasbro doesn't care" and "Hasbro's teaser preview doesn't explain the entire concept to our satisfiction." --[[User:Xaaron|Xaaron]] 16:33, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::It wasn't just a slide, it was repeatedly throughout ''Exodus''. --Thy
::::::If cleaning up Alpha Trion involves retcons that supersede previous continuities, then that is just the sort of thing the wiki shouldn't take a stance on. Is the original continuity true as presented, or is the new retcon true? - [[User:Starfield|Starfield]] 16:45, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::Our stance has always been "What Hasbro says goes. If they retcon something than that's their right as its their story, they determine official continuity, and the retcon is now whats true." Changing that would mean changing perhasp hundreds or thousands of articles at this point I'd guess, but that's what this discussion is all about. As long as we tell people that the retcon is a retcon and tell them all the facts of the original story and the new, then we're doing our job. Anyway, back on the point at hand, Exodus had a lot of other priorities. The Thirteen revelations in there were basically treated as background stuff and were far from the focus, teasers really for Hasbro's new plan for the characters announced at Botcon. The point stands that you can't call it proof of Hasbro not caring when they've barely gotten the first sentence of their story out of their mouth yet. Be patient and Lee will almost certainly deal with it as he set it all up. --[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 16:56, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::::I admit that I read the novel immediately ''before'' BotCon (like, I bought it on the drive to Florida and read it at breaks and while waiting for car repairs), so there's a chance that I didn't have time to properly retain everything about it before more new info pushed it out of my brain... but Zac is right. The 13 were barely backstory, and the multiverse was not even touched. We're only a month into what may be Hasbro's biggest venture into entertainment ever (on their part, at least), and we've only been given tiny teasers to the main part of it! 
::::::::(Also... it isn't just Lee working this stuff out. Remember the show crew, and Aaron...) --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 17:34, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::::"Changing that would mean changing perhasp hundreds or thousands of articles at this point I'd guess, but that's what this discussion is all about."
:::::::::Possibly. But the problem is, the more Hasbro throws stuff together because it seems cool and then just does after the fact cobbled-together retcons, the more we're going to have to change our pages. We've already had to merge a number of pages, and we already have arguments on the talk pages about how it utterly blatantly goes against what was explicitly shown in the official direct canon fiction, thus creating new errors by merging things never meant to be merged or changed.
:::::::::This new proposal is so that the wiki doesn't become even more entangled and insane in the future, messing up the info in old series with things never meant to be in them and things never meant to be connected ''by the direct official fiction in that continuity''.
:::::::::Plus, as was pointed out up above, Hasbro's stance is that all Optimus Primes are the same, all Megatrons are the same, etc. So we already go against Hasbro's stance for the sake of presenting the fiction as-is. If we really were going by how Hasbro did/sees things, our pages would all be set up exactly like Wikipedia's.
:::::::::Which is my whole worry, really. I ''like'' our current setup. I ''like'' the fact that we separate things out. To me, #3 and #6 are vitally important here. A bit of writing is written as having certain details, certain backstories, etc. in mind. If you later add things in, you change the story.
:::::::::And, I mean, it's bad enough that even the people directly writing in a given continuity often change things around even when it makes no sense, or forget that previous things happened, without us deciding that people in completely separate writing teams writing completely different storylines can somehow keep track of everyone else's work on top of their own.
:::::::::And Hasbro sure doesn't seem to be keeping track. IDW's main continuity is a mess. Hasbro went to all the trouble of trying to keep Mowry's comics canon... and then the Movie writers went and contradicted it anyway. I've seen plenty of arguments how WFC and Exodus contradict each other, yet are supposed to go together. Hasbro came out at BotCon and had to admit they goofed on the Sentinel/Zeta Prime thing. Pete had to basically declare the Movieverse outside of the multiverse to acknowledge that the Movie people don't know/care what the Fanclub was doing. Etc. Etc.
:::::::::This "plan" you guys seem to think exist? Either doesn't exist, or is utterly contradictory with itself, or is being incredibly poorly maintained. I see no reason so far whatsoever to think that Hasbro's left-hand writing team knows what the right-hand is doing.
:::::::::Which I could live with, if we didn't keep trying to merge things never meant to be merged, change things never meant to be changed, etc. due to info given by people who aren't even directly involved with/in what they're changing, on an assumption of coordination between the fiction that has not been shown to exist.
:::::::::To me, what's canon for a storyline is what is being officially marketed to me as taking place in that storyline, and occasionally the word from the people directly writing that storyline. Because nothing else makes sense to me. Just because you write officially for one storyline doesn't mean you know a thing about other storylines being written by other writing teams. And the fact that there are so many existing, undeniable contradictions between the various writing teams and storylines sure suggests to me that it's not being coordinated by Hasbro either. Not on the level some people seem to be thinking/wishing for. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 20:28, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::::Addendum: Plus, the more tangled this gets, the harder it's going to be for ''me'' to edit the wiki at least. If I can't even trust the directly-related show/comic/prose story in front of me to be true about its own storyline, thanks to some publication in some other completely unrelated fiction I otherwise would have no interest in reading... well, I sure can't edit the wiki any more. Because now I have no way to ensure I'm not wasting time scribing info that's apparently not even accurate even though it's right blatantly there in front of me. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 20:39, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::::::You're missing the point, either intentionally or because you have blinders on. IT DOESN'T MATTER if Hasbro has any kind of grand plan. It doesn't matter if the left hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing. Authorial Intent counts for nothing when dealing with a collaborative property like this. There have probably been literally thousands of creative people who have touched the brand in some official capacity; what was going through their minds when they made their contributions is irrelevant. What made it on to the page, or the screen, or the toy, THAT'S what matters.
::::::::::Does it logically follow from this idea that new material will influence / modify / change / mess-up older stuff? Yes, of course it does. When Bob Budiansky looked at a toy gun and said to himself that Megatron would be a good name for this toy, and that it could lead the bad guys, he didn't have any notion of him as a gladiator. Furman added that later. He didn't conceive of Starscream as having an immortal spark, (or, indeed, any of them as having sparks) but then Megeen McLaughlin and Ian Weir added that aspect to the character. He didn't think that Optimus Prime carried within him a creation matrix, but later he added that idea in himself. Flint Dille didn't make up Unicron as a dark god, but neither did he make him up as built by Primacron. Those ideas were added later, by Furman and Glut. Marty Isenberg didn't originally think of Bulkhead as a space bridge genius; this idea grew out of Michael Ryan's Autoboot Camp, and was solidified by Marsha Griffin in A Bridge Too Close, Part I. Cybertron modified Armada. Robot Masters added to many existing franchises. Universe pulled from all over the Multiverse. So does Timelines. So does my work. It's been happening for a long, long time, and it's one of the aspects of the franchise that I find appealing.
:::::::::::A few specific rebuttals: "The problem is, the more Hasbro throws stuff together because it seems cool and then just does after the fact cobbled-together retcons, the more we're going to have to change our pages." It's foolish to definitely introduce a ton of changes to our pages now to maybe possibly avoid changing pages in the future.
:::::::::::"Creating new errors by merging things never meant to be merged or changed." Meant by who? The original writers? Again, who cares, doesn't matter. This isn't Babylon 5, where there's one driving vision. This is a collaborative experiment involving at a bare minimum hundreds of people. One guy didn't intend something, another guy does, things change, it happens.
:::::::::::""The more tangled this gets, the harder it's going to be for ''me'' to edit the wiki at least." Transformers is a living, evolving tapestry. If you're worried that the story that you're currently reading doesn't reflect the entire, complete, 100% truth, then maybe you should find some other franchise that's a little less dynamic. Asimov's Foundation series is pretty good. (Oh, wait, no, he wrote in new prequels and changed around the backstory, then the rights holders commissioned new books in the universe.) Basically, everyone else seems to manage to contribute without running into this non-issue, this mole hill that you're attempting to mountainify.
::::::::::Besides... why are you wasting your time arguing? There were, what, three or four people that seemed to think this proposal had some merit, maybe seven who thought it caused more harm than good. The idea was put forth that, if you're really interested, put your money (or at least time) where your mouth is. Sandbox out Robot Masters, see if it's better or worse than our current Robot Masters offerings. About 50 pages. I'd be willing to look at your work and see if maybe, despite my strong intuition, you'll come up with something cleaner and better than what we have now. However, don't expect everyone to start reordering things because you don't like the idea that a Beast Wars cartoon can modify a Sunbow one when that's the model we've been operating under for years.--[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 21:35, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::::::When Asimov wrote new sequels, he wrote it in his own storyline. When the new people wrote sequels, they again wrote it in the same storyline.
:::::::::::That's different from feeling like I'm only interested in the cartoon, yet I have to counter-intuitively pick up an Animated book just to make sure I didn't miss something true about the cartoon. Or I have to watch the Movies to know something about IDW's storyline. Or I have to sub to the Fanclub to know about the Movies. These are all completely ''separate'' storylines, yet we treat them as somehow meaning anything to each other. Why? I dunno, it's never made any sense to me and I've never liked our tendency to do it, especially when it's been shown time and time again that the people actually writing the fiction do not consider other storylines as meaning anything to their own.
:::::::::::"This isn't Babylon 5, where there's one driving vision."
:::::::::::So why are we acting like there is?
:::::::::::"This is a collaborative experiment involving at a bare minimum hundreds of people."
:::::::::::Except that it's not. It's completely separate teams of people writing completely separate storylines that have never shown any signs of being coordinated with each other, yet we're acting like they are. And now it's starting to happen more often.
:::::::::::As for the rest, I think I'll let Jackpot take over down there, as he's already said much of what I would have said. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 21:52, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::::::::Right, they're not coordinated, but they ARE connected through the multiverse. And does you ignoring my 'go sandbox it' mean that your not going to go do so? Because if so, I think you've just lost by forfeit. Basically, I'm saying "put up or shut up." --[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 22:01, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::::So wait, let me get this straight. You ''agree'' that in real life the coordination between storylines does not exist, that the writers do not know or care about each other's storylines, that what other people are doing sometimes even contradicts what the writers in a different storyline are actually going to do, yet we're supposed to connect them together anyway based on a fictional conceit that the writers have been shown to not always care about?
:::::::::::::And you don't see the problem with this? Really?
:::::::::::::And I haven't ignored it, just pointed out that Jackpot already addressed it, and since it's his proposal, I see no point in not letting him choose how to handle it. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 22:30, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::::::Agree 100% --[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 21:41, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::::::How often is that true of a retcon though? Most (if not all) of the Transformers ones *add* to the story not detract from it. Even the whole Sideways brouhaha was giving Sideways a larger article. ROTF Sideway's depiction was still true and still happened even if it was "other" Sideways playing the role. In addition, outside of universe jumping or multiversal singularities (both of which are reasonably rare) there's hardly any overlap anyway. [[User:MrBlud|MrBlud]] 21:10, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::::::::Excellent point here. As Sipher points out, we're talking about, what, a dozen articles out of 11,000? Maybe a tenth of a percent. The proposal will introduce far more problems than that.--[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 21:35, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::::::::And again 100% agree. Does that make 200%? Can I do that? ;) --[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 21:41, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::::::::See my point above and Jackpot's point below about how not changing our policy may well eventually cause MORE problems. And in fact there's quite a few retcons that have caused contradictory information and errors. Including many of the new ones. The cartoon Prime retcons cause contradictions. Trion's retcon causes contradictions. Part of Sentinel Major's and Sideways' retcons eventually got overruled by our consensus because they just didn't make sense (and in one case the author actually writing the contested story in question pointed out it was wrong). Etc. Etc. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 22:00, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::::::::See MY point above where I point out that DEFINTELY introducing more work and NOW to POSSIBLY avoid more work and arguments in the future take your point and refute it completely and utterly. Also, if you're saying that Sideways and Sentinel Major were wrong, then congratulations, you've just scored a point for my side. In other words, the system works.--[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 22:13, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::::Er, what? No, I scored a point for our side. The system dictated that we should merge them, and we didn't because people realized that no, that would actually be dumb and go against what the authors actually intended. It was a step ''towards'' what Jackpot is proposing and ''away'' from our current system that assumes one continuity "knows" anything at all about a different one.
::::::::::::::Your point does not actually refute my point remotely at all, sorry. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 22:30, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::::::::::There's an old saying "Never trouble trouble until trouble troubles you." or even more simply "Don't borrow trouble." There's no reason to cause huge upheavel and a bot-load of work now to avoid something that only "could ''maybe'' be an issue" sometime in the future.--[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 22:22, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

====The Debate, part the fourth, wherein Jackpot attempts to synthesize the feedback from above====

:Rather than dig into the specific responses above, I'm going to respond more generally here: Thank you for the feedback, and I want to clarify that I'm NOT against all retcons, and I don't think the ideas I presented would suggest so. For example, the Autobot ship from the G1 'toon should clearly go on [[Ark (G1)]]; I would never say otherwise. I personally would avoid using the name "Ark" in the 'toon writeup, but that's as far as I would take it. It's the same concept in the same continuity family; the name is incidental. My point #1 up there ends that question.
:Where I ''will'' admit that my "rule" as presented would cause problems is with harmless cameos, like ''Armada'' Megatron showing up on one page of the ''Universe'' comic. That does no violence to his UT identity or continuity, and making a separate "Megatron (Universe)" page would be pointless. I think the truly massive across-the-board changes that people are worried about are of that nature, and I'm totally willing to leave those be. I'm not sure how to phrase it in a pithy bold-face sentence, but I'm with all y'alls there. (Also, the ''Robot Masters'' thing, being basically a cameo-fest, falls under the same category. Plus isn't it in the G1 continuity-family anyway, so principle #1 would make it a moot point for everyone but Sideways?)
:Now, one disadvantage I do have here is I'm not privy to any Awesome Insider Knowledge like some of you apparently are. As an uppity prole, my view from the trenches is this: Our current policy of rearranging content at the first whiff of "singularity" is maddening and unsustainable. The more Hasbro gets into the cross-continuity game, the more I cringe at how we're going to bend ourselves over backwards trying to keep up with the multiversal-retcon-of-the-moment. This top-down approach does not serve us. What makes a lot more sense is a bottom-up approach, where we let each series define its own view of the multiverse from within the continuity-family-based structure that's been our foundation since the beginning. In other words: links, not mergers.
:- [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 21:19, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::I think with your second paragraph there, you 100% summed up my main worry about continuing with our current tendencies. I worry that our policy that originally might have been intended to keep things simple and coherent is going to end up being very not-simple and not-coherent. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 21:34, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

:: Cross series or cross continuity family is a false distinction, invented by us for administrative purposes. Bob & Larry have as little to do with the Sunbow cartoon as I do, or Pete does, or Furman does, or the Robot Masters guys do. Trying to sweep the problems of your proposal under the rug by saying that you're willing to ignore it when it's harmless would make for WAY more arguments than our current system. If all you're concerned about is singularities, of which there are 15 (And Unicron, Primus, The Fallen and Vector Prime are already completely done), then you probably shouldn't be talking about the issue in such general terms. --[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 22:01, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::: Yeah, it seems like it's only going to be an issue for around 15 people total at this point. The whole Sideways argument waged for what three days max and ended with ONE de-merged article and only *then* because he's one of the 15 special cases. The sanest and easiest way to handle this is on a case by case basis as we're doing now IMO. [[User:MrBlud|MrBlud]] 22:43, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

== TFsource ad buy ==

TFsource contacted me, having seen our perennial Reprolabels ad up above and wanting in on a piece of the action, wanting to permanently buy one of our other ad spots. The question I have is, would/should we restrict them from ads depicting "third-party" toys and bootlegs? Perhaps this is the ghost of BotCon hovering over me, since their Wall Of Trademark And Copyright Theft Directly Facing the Hasbro Booth is prominent in my mind, and I know a few of the editors here expressed some displeasure with that. Is that a big deal for anyone, does anyone care in this context, or should I be all "ABSOLUTELY!" and then we make a deal and rake in the dough? Can we even judge, since we have, you know, all of this scanned material and whatnot? These are the questions I present. Tell me how much they matter. --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 14:24, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

:All else being equal I'd prefer to avoid it, unless we're desperate for cash. We know some Hasbro staff look at this wiki and they've been clear in how much that stuff bugs them. Also, the more our pageviews include imagery of Fake Magnus Armor and Fake Springer and Fake Rod et al., the more we're going to have to deal with new arrivals who feel that's all kosher for inclusion in the main articles. If it's possible to get a TFSource ad that will never display a bootleg, then I'd have no problem with it. --[[User:Thylacine 2000|Thylacine 2000]] 14:36, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

::Seems like a reasonable restriction for us to make to me. My take on our scans is that one, we generally err on the side of fair use in not uploading entire pages and making sure we credit the hell out of things, and two, they're not a 100% vital part of the wiki anyway--if Hasbro told us to take every scan down tomorrow we could comply and still have a perfectly usable (just a less visually exciting) wiki. 
::That's kind of different from openly advertising toys that totally violate Hasbro's copyright, though. Even aside from the legal tangles (which is no small aside, certainly), while I know we are in that murky grey area in some things, we ''have'' always tried to play as fair as we can with Hasbro in how we operate. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 14:40, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

:::I agree, no knockoffs in our ads if we can help it.--[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 14:44, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

::::Ditto on no knockoffs in the ads. --[[User:Lonegamer78|Lonegamer78]] 14:59, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::ALL ABOARD THE DITTO ASTROTRAIN --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 15:07, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::N-O on the K-Os. --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 15:12, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

::Yeah, if TFSource can give us ad without IP infringing product, I say let em in. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 15:17, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

:::Yikes, I'm looking at the side banner right now and it's full of IP infringing products. The one I see has Knight Morpher Commander, Crossfire Munition and Explorer and Warbot Defender. The only ACTUAL Transformers product in there is Masterpiece Ghost Starscream. I think it would be bad form to keep ads like that on the site. -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 18:19, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

::::Ads without IP infringing material would be fine with me. [[User:MrBlud|MrBlud]] 18:56, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::Ugh. When they were allowed to buy the ad space, did they promise no knock-offs? - [[User:Cattleprod|Cattleprod]] 23:12, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::Big NO on knockoffs, including third-party. --'''[[User:TX55|TX55]]'''''[[User talk:TX55|TALK]]'' 01:51, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::I am cool with them buying adspace IF they only advertise official Transformers products. --[[User:FFN|FFN]] 06:14, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::::I say YES to having the Third party stuff on here. As you can see by the continuity discussion above Hasbro don't really give a damn about Transformers fiction the way we do. The third party stuff proves that those guys have passion that many in Hasbro do not. And "knock-offs" is a bit harsh, no? So in summary, screw Hasbro and yeah Fansproject! And let's be honest if the choice as to who controls Transformers came down to a two-way battle between Hasbro and TFWiki, who would you pick? [[User:Drmick|Drmick]] 10:44, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::Drmick, we're talking '''''IP infringement''''' here and we occasionally have actual Hasbro folks peek in here time to time. I think I speak for the others in that none of us wants them knocking on the wiki's doors with some form of a C&D or something that'll restrict us (save certain circumstances). We've probably toed a couple lines somewhere more than several times, and I for one, do NOT want our relationship with Hasbro to be messed up. --[[User:Lonegamer78|Lonegamer78]] 12:22, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

== Simon Furman's IDW pitch ==

So here's a thing. The following text is Simon Furman's original pitch for Transformers comics when IDW took up the license, printed in the back of the "Best of Simon Furman" hardback collection. I skimmed this a few years back when the book was released and it passed under my nose at work, but since then, we've never had any of the info on the wiki, and I've never seen any discussion of it on any forums - presumably because none of us actually BOUGHT the dang thing, since we own all these stories in multiple formats already. I borrowed the book and transcribed the pitch so that anyone interested can read it, and we can maybe actually do something with the info. - [[User:Chris McFeely|Chris McFeely]] 11:01, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

TRANSFORMERS… A NEW DIRECTION

A Proposal For IDW

--Simon Furman--

In the (Armada/Energon) Cybertron timeline…

…UNICRON IS DESTROYED, utterly wiped out of existence by a seismic shock warhead detonated deep within its superstructure (events which would be visited retroactively in any subsequent ‘Energon’ conclusion issues).

But as one threat to Cybertron ends, another has only just begun. A rift in time and space – a massive ‘chronal’ black hole formed by the annihilation of Unicron – is threatening to suck Cybertron in, tear it apart in an internal maelstrom of deconstructed space and time. Only by anchoring the planet, via a spacebridge, to Earth’s energon core can Cybertron maintain its tenuous position, but it’s at best a quick fix. To seal the rift, they need the power of PRIMUS, the progenitor of the entire TRANSFORMERS race. But while a fragment of the dormant Primus lifeforce exists within Cybertron, the rest is lost, scattered throughout the universe, buried deep within strange, alien worlds.

Roused (from eons of chronal stasis in a dimension outside of normal space and time) by the impending cataclysm, the immortal sentinel known as Vector Prime spearheads the search for the Primus lifeforce, guiding Optimus Prime and his Autobots on a quest that will take them to aliens worlds in the farthest corners of the galaxy and beyond. But where Prime and the Autobots go… Megatron and the Decepticons are never far behind.

Clad in the armor of Unicron, fuelled by a fragment of his Spark, Megatron has become a true agent of chaos. He’s prepared to sacrifice Cybertron, Earth and any other world in order to contain and absorb the lifeforce of Primus himself, his ultimate aim to transform himself… into a living god!

And the ‘Cybertron’ timeline is not the only one to feel the effects of the destruction of Unicron. In fact… it’s one of the lucky ones.

<<In all the disparate timelines, all the myriad dimensions, there is but one Unicron. Though physical presence is limited to a single reality at any given time, it exists simultaneously in countless dimensions, shadows of its vast, ancient consciousness inextricably interwoven into the complex geometry of time and space. Its destruction in the Cybertron timeline creates ripples, which become shockwaves, which gather force, become a tidal wave of destruction. In some realities, the effect of the ‘chaos wave’ is total, instantaneous, entire timelines… wiped out. In others, the initial effect is less pronounced, a dramatic event heralding a slow descent into space/time anarchy.>>

In the G1 timeline…

…CYBERTRON IS DESTROYED! The resident Autobots and Decepticons barely have time to evacuate the planet, to eject the core of the planet and it’s precious Vector Sigma cargo (an eventuality made feasible way back when [in The War Within v3]) before the planet is torn apart, smashed into component molecules by the roiling chaos wave. Many Cybertronians don’t make it at all, and are simply wiped out. In a shockingly short time, Cybertron is gone. Forever.

Shocked, stunned, bereft of their homeworld, the remaining populous finds itself spread far and wide throughout the galaxy, seeking (in the Autobots’ case) safe harbor or (in the Decepticons’ case) new worlds to conquer… and colonise. Megatron’s Decepticons have perfecting ‘mechaforming’ technology, invasive, self-replicating machinery designed to restructure the entire geological substructure of a planet, in effect turn it into a new Cybertron. And since the Decepticons are indifferent to the presence or fate of any indigenous civilizations on the planet(s) of choice, it’s down to the Autobots to stop them… at any cost.

Earth, always a pivotal world in the G1 timeline, becomes even more of a focal battleground. Its natural resources are a potent brew that – with the right exploitation and manipulation – can be turned into energon, the lifeblood of the Transformer race. In Decepticon hands the whole world would be turned into a vast refinery, bled dry to fuel the creation of the ‘new’ Cybertron.

And Optimus Prime has an even more pressing concern. Contacted by Vector Prime (who can move within all remaining TF timelines), he is warned that the omniversal geometry is critically out of alignment. The removal of – for want of a better word – ‘evil’ has disturbed an age-old natural balance. Though it goes against every Autobot credo, they must somehow resurrect the dark force known, among other things, as Unicron! The key is the so-called ‘Decepticon Matrix’, a quasi-mythical power source spread throughout the galaxy. Said to be fragments of Unicron itself, released in some apocalyptic confrontation with Primus before the dawn of time, its retrieval and coalescence could restore the balance and dissipate the chaos wave.

Reluctantly, with grave reservations (and considerable dissent in the Autobot ranks) Prime forges an uneasy alliance with two of Unicron’s heralds, Cylonus and Scourge, both of whom are dedicated to the rebirth of their master (for different reasons). But, unknown to Prime, they have a secondary agenda, a plan to use a fragment of the Decepticon Matrix to destroy Megatron… and recreate him as the unstoppable force known as Galvatron!

<<And so, in one timeline, the Autobots seek to make Primus whole once more, while in another, they seek to resurrect the spirit of Unicron, leading ultimately to the new, universe-shaking confrontation between the two ancient forces… one that will (briefly) unite all remaining TRANSFORMERS timelines and continuities in an epic battle for survival.>>

CYBERTRON #0 (AND ONGOING)/G1 #0 (AND ONGOING)

Amidst the larger framework of the ‘chaos wave’ saga, the ongoing thrust of Cybertron is a focused series of one or two-part (largely self-contained, featuring different character assortments) adventures set on Cybertron, Earth and the key planets (Speed, Beast and Giant) that support its core quest… the search for the lifeforce of Primus. At every turn, the Autobots are confounded and frustrated by the Decepticons, but in the process forge new alliances and friendships, both on Earth and beyond. It’s a race against time… with the fate of Cybertron (and more) hanging in the balance.

The G1 title expands the scope and reach of the line, exploring wider character/conflict story arcs (while pulling in much more fan-friendly past and future continuity) and dramatically shaking the whole TRANSFORMERS mythos to its core, streamlining and redefining the sometimes confusing mass of ‘alternate’ timelines. But as with Cybertron, the focus will shift to different groups of Autobots/Decepticons on different worlds, faced with differing agendas and challenges.

The issue #0s will be mirror-images of each other, both told from the perspective of Vector Prime as he awakens to an omniverse in chaos, threatened on all fronts. His narrative will serve to encapsulate what has gone before while his actions introduce the primary cast and lay the groundwork for what is to come.

MediaWiki talk:Community Portal

2010-07-09T01:10:25Z

MrBlud: /* Jackpot's Guide to the Multiverse */

__NEWSECTIONLINK__

This is the place for discussion of topics that affect the entire wiki. Some topics that would ordinarily be here have merited their own pages:

{{chapters|title=Specific Discussion Subjects|align=left|content=
<div class="list-header">'''Moving From Wikia:'''</div>
* [[Transformers Wiki talk:Community Portal/Arriving|Arriving]]
* [[Transformers Wiki talk:Community Portal/Leaving|Leaving]]
* [[Transformers Wiki:Community Portal/Complaints|Complaints]]
 <div class="list-header">'''New Ad Policy:'''</div>
* [[Transformers Wiki:Ads|Ads]]
 <div class="list-header">'''Bookworm Database-Crash:'''</div>
* [[Transformers Wiki talk:Community Portal/Damage Control Central|Damage Control Central]]
* [[Project:Bookworm Crash]]
* [[Transformers Wiki talk:Community Portal/Leaving2|Leaving Take 2]]
 <div class="list-header">'''Server Move:'''</div>
* [[Transformers Wiki talk:Community Portal/Arriving2|Arriving Take 2]]
 <div class="list-header">'''Relicensing:'''</div>
* [[Transformers Wiki talk:Community Portal/Relicensing|Relicensing]]
 <div class="list-header">'''Dealing With Vandalism:'''</div>
* [[Transformers Wiki talk:Community Portal/Vandalism|Vandalism]]
 <div class="list-header">'''GoBots Sister Wiki:'''</div>
* [[Transformers Wiki talk:Community Portal/GoBots|Discussion on the place of GoBots in this wiki]]
}} 

{{:{{FULLPAGENAMEE}}/Archive}}


== Home Video sections are lacking ==
I looked up the DVD and Home Video content on Wookiepedia, Memory Alpha, Lostpedia, and even the 24 Wiki and they all brought up pages with tons of info, all neatly organized and categorized. But for this Wiki, searches turn up little and the only way I could find home video content effectively is through the "Category:Home Video" page, and even then it was - sorry to say - A Mess! Why is a wiki as large as this one so inadequate in this regard? If this wiki doesn't have it right, then shouldn't it be fixed by modeling the home video sections after the wikis that have it done right? Most of the content is already here, it just needs to be better organized. {{unsigned|4.254.83.255}}
:Er, I don't know what you mean, exactly, considering that our home video sections look perfectly fine to me. See: [[Transformers_Animated_(cartoon)#Home video releases]], [[The Transformers (cartoon)#DVD releases]], [[Revenge of the Fallen DVD field guide]], [[Robots in Disguise (cartoon)#DVD releases]], etc. I don't know what more you could want; for any series you want to know DVD info about, the info is likely available on that series' page.
:Either that, or you're perhaps not realizing the difference in how the TF series work. Instead of something like Trek where the different series are all in a ''single'' universe and storyline, there's somewhere around 16 DVD-able Transformers things, all of which are in multiple ''different'' universes and storylines.
:As such, IMHO it makes far more sense for us to group our home video by those separate series, rather than all together. I think most TF fans are only going to be interested in what DVDs are available for their specific favorite series/universe, rather than wanting to see every single DVD at once for everything.
:Not that a comprehensive DVD list might not still be a useful project, mind you. Just saying that IMHO we're far from unorganized or a mess if we don't have one. We just have different organizing needs because of the unique way the TF series themselves are organized. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 08:38, 7 March 2010 (EST)
::Agreed on all counts. I'd need to know what the previous poster was actually looking for to understand what improvements they're wanting.
::It ''could'' be this is another symptom of us not having any sort of "Transformers primer", as we discussed ages ago. Maybe time to revisit that idea?
::(I went onto Wookiepedia looking for some ideas, but got distracted by the absurdly long and reaching list of "References to the original trilogy" on the ''Attack of the Clones'' page. If that list were here, I'd take a weedwhacker to it.) -- [[User:Repowers|Repowers]] 09:21, 7 March 2010 (EST)
:::I like the idea of a Transformers primer, explaining the odd franchise and reboot and "multiple characters with the same name" nature of the deal. Pages like [[continuity]], [[canon]], and [[continuity family]] cover some of the info that might go on such a thing, but they're still a bit too "techy" for the casual reader, I think. Something that covers similar info but in a more accessible way might be very useful. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 10:13, 7 March 2010 (EST)
::::I'd be all for a ''Transformers 101'' type page. A simple concise "These are Transformers, they come from Cybertron, there are Autobots and Decepticons (generally) fighting a big war (generally) over control of resources. Usually there's an Optimus and a Megatron (or the nearest local equivalent), a kid-friendly character and a conniving evil second-in-command, but beyond that, it's a weird-ass multiverse. Why are all the different incarnations of TF so different, yet so similar? [[To sell toys|Duh.]] [[User:Hooper X|-hx]] 10:22, 7 March 2010 (EST)
:I will say that I think we need to be better about making sure individual episode/comic pages include all the relevant home-video/trade-paperback compilations one can find said individual episodes on... and I am a firm believer that each home video/compilation needs its own page. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 13:49, 7 March 2010 (EST)

I should have known I was stirring up a hornet's nest when I posted that yesterday. This started with my searching for old VHS releases of transformers on Amazon.com. I then figured I'd check it out on this wiki, but amazingly searching for VHS, DVD, and Blu-ray turned up nothing. (I even considered that it was the browser I was using. It's not.) "Home video" turned up pages for the series and their home video sections, but not a comprehensive listing with links (to the home video sections). There are some great guides to home video for the live-action films, and the home video category lists companies, but I just found it a bit frustrating that it required so much digging to find what I was looking for. Other wiki's do have pages dedicated to just DVD (Though I have exaggerated their organization.), and in the case of Memory Alpha templates that direct one to the releases. Granted, nothing's perfect and those other wiki's maybe only succeed over this one in that I was able to find what I was looking for fast. But content that can't be found might as well not be there. Out of frustration I finally just thought "This is a mess!" and posted the above.

Go ahead and say everything's fine. The content ''is'' there all well done when you do find it, even if it was difficult to come by (Why, for instance, does the home video category not provide links to the home video sections for each series and movie? Would putting all those article in the home video category be inappropriate? Maybe, but without something like that, the category didn't help much for my search.), and maybe this is more a criticism of the failings of the search engine behind the box on the left of each page. But my difficulty in finding what I was looking for happened, and I suspect it goes on all the time with other casual searches: "Lemme see what DVD releases there are for transformers." [types DVD, hits 'enter'] "Nothing?! Oh well..."
:Ah, I see the problem. DVD, VHS, and Blu-ray are all three-letter terms (or made up of three-letter terms with dashes), and the wiki software always returns no results for search terms with three letters or less.
:The problem is that (most) every other wiki only has one universe to worry about, while we have multiple universes. So it makes perfect sense for someplace like Memory Alpha to have all of the videos together, because the series are all sequels to each other.
:Whereas for us, there's little reason to have, say, the Robots in Disguise videos and the Animated videos together, because they're two series that have nothing to do with each other. Instead, we have home video listings on the series pages, because it's far more likely someone's going to want to know if RID specifically has videos, or Animated specifically has videos, etc.
:As such, putting the entire cartoon series pages into the Home Video category when only a single section contains info related to that category is odd. ''However'', I do think maybe we could fake it using redirects. For instance, "Transformers Animated home video releases" that redirects to "Transformers Animated (cartoon)#Home video releases", etc. Then we'd put the redirect in the category.
:We could also make it so that terms like "VHS", "DVD", and "Blu-ray" all redirect to "Category:Home Video" to get around the three-letter search terms problems. (Er, can you ''have'' redirects point to categories?) --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 16:07, 7 March 2010 (EST)
::Maybe part of the problem is that [[:Category:Home video]] mostly lists companies that put out TF on DVD. All well and good if you know Kid Rhino and Shout! Factory put out G1, but if you don't, how do you know where to go for G1 DVD info. We have [[Revenge of the Fallen DVD field guide]] and [[Transformers Animated (cartoon)/DVD]]. Perhaps we just need that for each series, and then maybe a central page to tie them together? --[[User:Abates|abates]] 16:18, 7 March 2010 (EST)
:::I was just going to add an addendum that if we go the route of creating categorized redirects to all of our series-specific sections, we could create a couple subcategories to separate the companies from the actual release areas. We also should probably stick the DVD covers subcategories in their own umbrella "Covers" subcategory.
:::I'm not sure we really need a central page, so much as making the individual sections all available and easier to get to in the Home Video category, and making terms like "DVD" redirect to that category.--[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 16:22, 7 March 2010 (EST)
::::I don't see the harm in having something at each of those namespaces, but given my druthers I'd make each of them in the format of a disambiguation page.--[[User:Rosicrucian|Rosicrucian]][[User Talk:Rosicrucian|Talk]] 18:25, 7 March 2010 (EST)
:::::If I'm following you correctly, you're suggesting to make pages for DVD, VHS, etc. and have them be disambiguation pages? That's not a bad idea at all. I think we should definitely have an actual main page for Generation 1 video releases and perhaps the same for Beast Wars. Adding links to the nav templates for video releases (whatever is chosen as the 'central page' for that franchise) would probably be a good idea too. --[[User:Tigerpaw28|Tigerpaw28]] 01:55, 12 March 2010 (EST)

I've been planning to make a central "hub" page since I started doing the home video stuff, and to have releases listed on episode pages (like I did at the bottom of [[The Transformers: The Movie promo]]), but I was waiting until I'd finished all the company pages so I could add everything together in one go rather than a load of little edits. I guess I took too long doing that, though, and the punters are getting restless. We've got enough info to make it worth starting now anyway, so I'll bump it up on my to-do list. - [[User:Magnus Maximus|Magnus Maximus]] 03:38, 12 March 2010 (EST)
:Well, I was thinking something like the [[series]] page with links to everything, but I can't make that work without it becoming overly long and complicated. Instead I've gone with a simple disambig thing as suggested above, as well as the redirects and cat sorting that Jeysie mentioned. Thoughts so far? - [[User:Magnus Maximus|Magnus Maximus]] 08:10, 13 March 2010 (EST)

== Toyline list formatting ==
I was looking through various toyline pages to get an idea of how to format the list of toys for the [[Beast Wars Metals (toyline)]] page that I created and the one I'd like to create for the [[Beast Wars (Japanese franchise)|Japanese Beast Wars]] toyline, and noticed an inconsistency in the way the toylists are done. Specifically, with whether alt-modes should be listed by the name of the toy. Beast Wars, Neo, Beast Machines, Armada and Energon include alt-modes, while G1, G2, Beast Wars II, RID, Cybertron, and ROTF do not. Movie 2007 has it for some but not all. Is having alt-modes in the lists something that we desire? --[[User:Tigerpaw28|Tigerpaw28]] 01:55, 12 March 2010 (EST)

==Caption location==
I find the way captions are currently placed at the rightt ugly, in particular if the caption is very short. It only looks decent when it is a piece of a conversation. So, is it possible to alter the coding so that caption gets placed in the center? I think that will look a lot better. [[User:Geewunling|Geewunling]] 08:52, 16 March 2010 (EDT)
:Uhhh...I'm not sure what you mean. Captions are placed in the LEFT of the boxes. Images are often at the right of the page, but not always. [[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 09:54, 16 March 2010 (EDT)
::Okay, so I have a problem telling left and right apart. ^^* Left then - the captions look ugly placed all too the ''left''. [[User:Geewunling|Geewunling]] 10:09, 16 March 2010 (EDT)
:::Isn't left alignment of text associated with images standard in all forms of publication? That's the way I've always seen such things in books and magazines.[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 12:02, 16 March 2010 (EDT)
: Centering would look terrible. --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 12:23, 16 March 2010 (EDT)

== Disambig3 of ordinary name ==

I think it is fine to put [[Template:Disambig3|Disambig3]] of ordinary names such as "[[David (disambiguation)|David]]", "[[Jim (disambiguation)|Jim]]", or "[[Bill (disambiguation)|Bill]]" on certain pages, since these names are names instead of generic words like "[[Special:PrefixIndex/Star|Star]]",[[Special:PrefixIndex/Thunder|Thunder]]", "[[Special:PrefixIndex/Sky|Sky]]", or "[[Special:PrefixIndex/Jet|Jet]]".

See, we won't call [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] or [[Thunderblast (Decepticon)|Thunderblast]] just "Thunder" (unless here comes an official nickname some day). But it is natural/normal to call David Kaye "David" (for example). Or, it's normal to call [[Optimus Prime (disambiguation)|Optimus Prime]] just "[[Optimus (disambiguation)|Optimus]]".

So, in my opinion, it is okay to leave put disambig3 of ordinary names on those pages. --'''[[User:TX55|TX55]]'''''[[User talk:TX55|TALK]]'' 23:52, 16 March 2010 (EDT)
:Is there some kind of consensus for this, or is it going to lead to a huge edit war where different users like FortMAx and Interrobang (to pick a couple random editors) clog up recent changes alternately addign and removing disambigs without marking them as minor for filterng purposes? --[[User:G1MarvelBlaster|G1MarvelBlaster]] 01:55, 17 March 2010 (EDT)

::Current consensus is that we put disambiguation on for first and/or last name. We haven't had any discussion about removing the disambig3s. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 20:08, 17 March 2010 (EDT)

== IP Range Blocking ==

As of this writing, within the past several hours, we've had a dozen edits from what appears to be one anonymous editor, sent from several IPs in the 64.112.16 range and one in 64.112.17 range. All have been attempts to add Japanese names to the ''TF Animated'' cast prematurely. I've blocked one of the addresses (infinitely, more for abusing multiple accounts than anything else), so any subsequent ones should also be blocked, but will this block other IPs he's already used? And if not, could someone point me to the process for handling this? Or is this something a super-admin has to handle?--[[User:Apcog|Apcog]] 22:21, 23 March 2010 (EDT)
:The IP addresses he's been editing from are AOL's proxy, which uses a random IP from their range for each access, so he's not changing IP addresses intentionally. Blocking all of the IP addresses he could potentially use would mean blocking AOL in its entirety. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 22:36, 23 March 2010 (EDT)
::And that's bad ''how''? --[[User:FortMax|FortMax]] 22:46, 23 March 2010 (EDT)
::So do I change his block to temporary instead of permanent? I'm not sure if a brief spate of premature Japanese name inclusion merits an infinite block in and of itself. Or do we hope this teaches him a lesson and that he registers if he wants to keep contributing?--[[User:Apcog|Apcog]] 23:16, 23 March 2010 (EDT)
:::Every time he load or edits a page, he does so from a different IP address, so the ban on just one of the IP addresses won't make a difference - he'll never see that he's been banned. With AOL, it's either a blanket ban on the IP range, or semi-protecting the articles being attacked. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 23:27, 23 March 2010 (EDT)
::::The problem with AOL is that they have effin' huge IP ranges, they don't send X-Forwarded-For headers by default, and approximately ten umptillion people use it, which means we'd be blocking hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of people.
::::Semi-protect the pages. --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 02:38, 24 March 2010 (EDT)
:::::Ditto on semi-protect. --[[User:Lonegamer78|Lonegamer78]] 03:32, 24 March 2010 (EDT)
::::::Yeah, I looked up a Wikipedia talk page on how to deal with AOL vandals, and they came to the same conclusion - better to semi-protect the pages than block 5 million people. If the AOL person comes back and tries it again, we should semi-protect the pages. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 04:09, 24 March 2010 (EDT)
:::::::Works for me. If I'm here the next time he tries something, I'll semi-protect as many ''Animated'' character pages as I can in one go.--[[User:Apcog|Apcog]] 13:19, 24 March 2010 (EDT)

== Formatting Pet Peeves ==

So a thread on the Allspark made me want to bicker about a few annoying pet peeve things I see people doing here on the Wiki.

'''Double-spacing between sentences.'''

Folks... these are ''web pages''. Double spaces ''don't show up'' on the display unless you use the HTML code that forces one (and please, for the love of humanity, don't). Now, putting double spaces before inline templates like storylinks does make sense, because it lets you pick them apart from the actual text while editing, but double-spacing sentences just does nothing even from that standpoint. And over the number of pages we have, it can add up space-wise.

'''Putting line returns between list items.'''

When you put list items together like this:

<pre>*List item one
*List item two
*List item three</pre>

You get this in the code:

<pre><ul>
<li>List item one</li>
<li>List item two</li>
<li>List item three</li>
</ul></pre>

See? Nice correct ''single'' list. Now, what happens when you do this instead?

<pre>*List item one

*List item two

*List item three</pre>

Well, you get this:

<pre><ul>
<li>List item one</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>List item two</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>List item three</li>
</ul></pre>

Yes. Now instead of a list that should be a single being in, you know, ''one'' coded list, it's now in ''three'' coded lists. This is bad for a number of reasons.

If you want spacing between line items, put a blasted line of CSS in your personal CSS thingy that puts some there:

<pre>li {margin:.5em 0;}</pre>

In fact, even better, someone with admin access put that line in the wiki's main CSS like I've been trying to pester Derik to do for ages now. Boom, instant spacing without doing god-awful things to the HTML code.

'''The never-ending {{tl|-}} vs. {{tl|--}} debate.'''

Considering the whole reason the latter was created was to replace the former in those instances where the spacing was too large, having some folks constantly swapping the latter back to the former is annoying. And then there's the people who don't even bother to do the swap and just stack both together, which is just really stupid.

If what's making it not work is that it's:

<pre>{{--}}

Next Header</pre>

When it needs to be:

<pre>{{--}}
Next Header</pre>

Then, you know, fix the code.

And if the problem is that you're using an outdated browser, then either get with the times, or suck up and accept that you're using a terrible browser and stop messing things up for the rest of us.

Anyhoo. There's probably other stuff I'm forgetting, but for now, this is your Code Wench complaining about these issues. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 09:22, 28 March 2010 (EDT)

:Good call on
<pre>
* list

*list</pre>
:that was something I was unaware of but will look out for in future. While we're talking formatting, though, is it possible to remove the <pre>{{--}}</pre> (or similar) from the note template? When notes escape images it tends to screw up the page a bit --[[User:Emvee|Emvee]] 16:43, 30 March 2010 (EDT)
::The problem is that if we don't, the note template is coded in such a way that it currently ends up overlapping part of the image frame and looking worse. Also:
::<pre>li + li {margin-top:.5em}</pre>
::Might be better for the list item spacing, as then you avoid affecting the spacing above and below the list, plus it will avoid messing up the articles where the list items have been spaced out, and they can be fixed at our leisure. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 17:20, 30 March 2010 (EDT)
:::That is indeed a better thought, although I don't recall off-hand if IE7 supports that type of selector or not. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 12:19, 31 March 2010 (EDT)
::::I just tested it in IE8 and... no dice. Oh well. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 14:55, 31 March 2010 (EDT)
:::::I'm confused, because [http://kimblim.dk/css-tests/selectors/ this page] says it's supported in IE7 and 8, but when I tried it in my copy of IE8, it didn't work. I may have to retest and see if it wasn't some minor syntactical error that was stopping it working. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 20:05, 31 March 2010 (EDT)
::::::I'm wondering if it's possibly a standards mode vs. quirks mode (or compatibility mode or whatever the heck they're calling it nowadays) sort of thing, as I know IE likes to pretend it doesn't support some things if it gets kicked into quirks mode. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 20:57, 31 March 2010 (EDT)
:::::::Aha, yes, it was a compatibility thing. I slapped a DOCTYPE on the top of my test page, and li+li started working! That seems like it would be the best solution to the problem of cramped lists. I can add it to common.css at some point, if everyone agrees. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 02:40, 1 April 2010 (EDT)
::::::::Having tested further, the solution needs more work. We probably do not want to have this spacing in ''all'' of the lists, because otherwise you get this: [http://www.aldenbates.com/spacedcharacters.jpg]. So I think to be viable, we need to limit it to Notes sections somehow. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 04:16, 1 April 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::Is it possible to reset the margin for lists that are in a table? TABLE LI {whatever the reset would be}. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 07:29, 1 April 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::Yes, however there are occasions where such lists occur outside boxes too. The [[More_than_Meets_the_Eye,_Part_1#Home_video_releases|Home Video stuff]] on the episode pages, lists of external links, the "these pages link to this image" list on the image pages, etc. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 07:38, 1 April 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::I don't see why some spacing on those kinds of lists too is a bad thing.
:::::::::::But you could always try something like H2+UL LI+LI, or just reduce the amount of space a little to .25em or such.
:::::::::::Or adapt what Derik did to limit the TFNA/TFU/YoJoe icons to only show up in the "External Links" sections:
<pre style="white-space:pre-wrap;">#bodyContent a[name='External_links'] + h2 + ul > li > a[href^="http://www.tfu.info"].external,
#bodyContent .tt1_external > a[href^="http://www.tfu.info"].external{
padding-right:61px;
background-image:url('http://tfwiki.net/w2/images2/7/75/Tfuinfo_icon.png');</pre>
:::::::::::--[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 08:45, 1 April 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::I tried doing the latter last night, but my CSS fu was not strong enough. The extra h3s in the way complicate things. Maybe Derik can have a crack on it when he's back on deck? --[[User:Abates|abates]] 17:20, 1 April 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::::Still haven't had the chance to really look at this yet, but I had a thought: Since we tend to frequently label our Notes sections in the same way, why not just add those labels as extra matching rules? That would cover a good chunk of the H3 issues. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 21:16, 4 April 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::::Could do, but there would be a bunch of them, and things like [[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1#Animation_or_technical_glitches|this]] where the lists are interrupted by paragraphs (I'm not sure why those aren't just H4s). --[[User:Abates|abates]] 21:28, 4 April 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::::::I don't really see it as a problem... since most of our existing lists would need the extra spaces edited out anyway after this, we can always standardize other things as well, as soon as we decided on one (semi-colons, H4s, whichever). In fact, working on standardizing our code when we can is a good thing in general anyway. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 21:43, 4 April 2010 (EDT)

:::::::::::::Having given this more thought: probably the safest way to do it would be to create a template similar to {{tl|columnlist}}. The disadvantage being that it would have applied to all of the lists where it was required. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 07:07, 2 April 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::::Considering the whole point was to get people to have the whitespace they wanted while still using the coding correctly, that's not really what I had in mind. Let me see if I can find some time to hack away at it, provided Derik doesn't show up first. Honestly, though, considering we don't have a lot of in-body non-table-contained lists, I'd be more inclined to just live with spacing on all of them. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 08:56, 2 April 2010 (EDT)

Hey, if we're moaning about formatting, I got one - is there any way to make the "note" template work with left-aligned pictures that doesn't result in a chunk'o whitespace? - [[User:Chris McFeely|Chris McFeely]] 07:28, 2 April 2010 (EDT)
:The image float is what makes it tricky, at least visually. Do you have an example handy I can look at? --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 08:56, 2 April 2010 (EDT)
::Sure, now that I'm looking, I can't find a truly annoying example of it, but here's a [[Optimus_Prime_%28G1%29#Hearts_of_Steel|for instance]]. If that picture was right-aligned, the note would snap up to right under the body text, but because the pic's on the left, it creates that whitespace. - [[User:Chris McFeely|Chris McFeely]] 09:16, 2 April 2010 (EDT)
:::OK, did some poking around.
:::Basically, there's a <tt>clear:left</tt> in the CSS for the Notes, and I discovered that the reason why is that you can get [http://miscfile.alienharmony.com/transformers/wiki-note-wonkyness.jpg this sort of icky visual] otherwise.
:::This could be fixed by removing the <tt>clear:left</tt> and then either putting the Note in a single-cell table or slapping a <tt>display:table</tt> on the CSS for it (which would be cleaner code-wise but may not work in IE or older browsers; I don't know off-hand), but I'm not sure what effect that might have on ''other'' text/image-wrapping situations. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 09:55, 2 April 2010 (EDT)

Still don't know why you can't get <nowiki>{{--}}</nowiki>. Reasoning that people on those browsers should "either get with the times, or suck up and accept that you're using a terrible browser and stop messing things up for the rest of us" or bulljive like that is idiotic, because unless they visit this specific subsection they won't be aware the stupid thing isn't working due to browser outdatedness. Plus, as a ressource, shouldn't we, I dunno, thrive to be as accessible to as many people as possible, regardless of browser choices? Surely working the code for <nowiki>{{--}}</nowiki> so it works on as many browsers as possible can't be that daunting a task? I mean, honestly now, it's just the same break as <nowiki>{{-}}</nowiki> but without the extra space at the end. --[[User:Detour|Detour]] 10:27, 8 April 2010 (EDT)
:I'm not Derik (obviously) but basically... what the {{tl|--}} does is put a "clear:both;" on the header following the template via this:
<pre>.tt1_clearall + a + h1,
.tt1_clearall + a + h2,
.tt1_clearall + a + h3,
.tt1_clearall + a + h4,
.tt1_clearall + a + h5,
.tt1_clearall + a + h6</pre>
:Which involves CSS selectors that older browsers can't handle because they weren't compliant with all of the standards. I think the only other way to handle this would be using javascript to alter the heading in question. Doable, I guess, but it seems like a waste of time to bother for the tiny handful of people who refuse to update to a standards-compliant browser. Whether Derik would feel differently or not, you'd have to ask him.
:There's a lot of newer HTML and CSS standards that help out both viewers and webmasters, that either can't be done with very old browsers or can only be replicated on them by fiddling with complex javascript code. You need to accept that people aren't going to keep from ever using anything new just to accommodate your personal choice to keep using a buggy and outdated browser, especially when you're in an increasingly tiny percentage. Doubly especially when it's something like this where the site is still usable even if it doesn't work.
:(Now, if you were using something like Lynx, which actually ''is'' standards-compliant for everything related to its pure-text methodology--and there are good reasons for choosing to surf sans images--''then'' I think you'd actually have a good case.) --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 11:00, 8 April 2010 (EDT)
::Hey, I'd love to switch over, but new versions of IE have complete clusterfucks instead of layouts, and while I ''can'' mess around with the layout on Firefox to make it match IE6, the inability to add Office, MSN and AIM shortcuts to the icons, as well as just how freaking ''paranoid'' it is when it comes to browsing, downloading, etc., just makes me very uninterested in using it on a regular basis. --[[User:Detour|Detour]] 11:41, 8 April 2010 (EDT)
:::Try using Opera. The button layout is drag-and-drop customizable to ridiculous degrees (my own setup basically looks nothing like the default setup), including being able to [http://operawiki.info/CustomButtons add custom buttons] and website buttons. Its tile-able tab setup and ability to save and quick-insert custom notes and retain form data with the "Back" button is really helpful for Wiki-ing too. There's also things like one-click adding of custom searches (yay TFWiki search). --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 11:54, 8 April 2010 (EDT)

==Categories==
:To distinguish between the group Headmasters and characters appearing in Japan's 1987 franchise, the categories are called "Headmasters" and "Headmasters franchise". Wouldn't it be a better option to have the franchise category be called by its franchise name "The Headmasters"? On top of that, some of its subcategories are called "Headmasters [something]" while others are called "The Headmasters [something]". I suggest to alter them all to either one of the options, preferably the latter one if the main category is changed to include "The".
:The "Universe (2003)" category also has some oddities. First of all, "Universe characters" should probably be further divided to differentiate from the 2008 guys, even if they may not need a category on their own since "Universe (2008)" is practically only characters as is. I'd do it, but right now various (sub)subcategories are called "Universe 2003 [something]" instead of a more logical "Universe (2003) [something]" to be alike to the main category. Is there a reason for that or should it be changed to match? [[User:Geewunling|Geewunling]] 09:20, 6 April 2010 (EDT)
::Distinguishing between the characters and the franchise solely by the presence of the definite article, while TECHNICALLY correct, is just asking for confusion. I do agree with you on the Universe characters and the subcategories of "Universe (2003)", though. -- [[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 09:35, 6 April 2010 (EDT)

==Analog/Homage vs Distinct Character==
This has come up in relation to whether or not [[Sentinel Prime (Animated)]] is an homage to [[Sentinel Prime (G1)]], particularly as to how both of them relate to [[Sentinel Major]]. [[User:ItsWalky]] informed me on [[Talk:Sentinel_Prime_(G1)]] that (emphasis mine):
"I view Animated Sentinel Prime as the Animated universe's version of G1 Sentinel Prime. They are analogs. That relationship goes both ways. ''This is merely how Transformers Wiki categorizes its characters.'''"

Is that policy and/or the general consensus? I don't see why it should be applied universally as ItsWalky suggests it is, especially with characters like [[Jetfire_(G1)]] and [[Jetfire_(Animated)]] where we have evidence to suggest that two characters are not intended to be homages or different 'versions' of the same character. That said, I'll bow out if the quotation from ItsWalky speaks for the wiki as a whole. -- [[User:Ayellowbirds|Ayellowbirds]] 20:50, 8 April 2010 (EDT)
:As I said, I don't consider Animated Sentinel Prime to share anything with G1 Sentinel Prime but a name. As such, Sentinel ''Major'' is an homage to Animated Sentinel Prime, and cramming him into G1 Sentinel Prime's page does him a disservice.--[[User:Rosicrucian|Rosicrucian]][[User Talk:Rosicrucian|Talk]] 22:29, 8 April 2010 (EDT)
:Well first, an analog is virtually the opposite of an homage. A character is an homage if they are designed to resemble another character WITHOUT actually BEING that character. An analog to a character actually IS the same character, only from another dimension. So Insecticon from Energon could be called an ''homage'' to the original Deluxe Insecticon Barrage because they share a similar paint job. They are, however, different and distinct characters. On the other hand, Energon Insecticon in the Dreamwave Comics is an ''analog'' to Energon Insecticon from the Energon cartoon.
:As for your actual question...I don't really know what your actual question is. Practically speaking, I mean. Jetfire (G1) and Jetfire (Animated) are on two separate pages because they are from two separate continuity families, Primax and Malgus. There is a disamg at the top because of their similar (in this case identical) names. The reuse of the name alone isn't considered a homage, generally, because name reuse is just a fact of life in trademark reservation. --[[User:Xaaron|Xaaron]] 22:45, 8 April 2010 (EDT)
::Xaaron- The issue that started this seems to be whether [[Sentinel Prime (Animated)]] and [[Sentinel Prime (G1)]] have ''any'' relationship to each other beyond the name, be it through homage or being analogues.
::I think there might be a difference of use of the word 'homage' between various parties here; ItsWalky and [[User:JimSorenson]] both used the term 'version', which Jim treated as synonymous with 'homage', and Walky identified it with 'analogue'. I chose to re-use the terms they were using, since those were at the heart of the disagreement.
::In any case, my question is whether ItsWalky's statement that ''"This is merely how Transformers Wiki categorizes its characters."'' as quoted above is valid. It suggests to me that the policy and/or consensus is that characters from different continuity families who share a name should be assumed to be analogous. -- [[User:Ayellowbirds|Ayellowbirds]] 23:08, 8 April 2010 (EDT)
:::No, that's not true. The Mini-Con Safeguard from Transformers Cybertron and the combo robot Safeguard from Transformers Animated are not analogs.
:::But whether they're analogs or not, they're still from different continuity families and would be filed under different character pages. That's where your question breaks down for me: what are you expecting to do or not do differently based on the answer on our "policy"? What are the practical ramifications of your query? I feel like you're suggesting the answer to this analog / distinct character question of yours is going to have sweeping changes on how you plan to contribute to the wiki, but I can't see HOW.
:::Basically...''What's your point''? --[[User:Xaaron|Xaaron]] 08:24, 9 April 2010 (EDT)
::::My point was to find out if ItsWalky spoke for the wiki, or just himself. After all the back and forth arguing with him and JimSorenson over related issues, I'd rather go back to tackling unrelated topics for a while, like correcting typos in articles. [[User:Ayellowbirds|Ayellowbirds]] 15:50, 9 April 2010 (EDT)
:::::The main purpose was related to the Sentinel Prime/Major example, though it's possible it might have other related purposes. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 17:00, 9 April 2010 (EDT)

==Third Party products such as Fansproject etc==
There's a good amount of folk here who have a lot of these products. While their unofficialness obviously means they cannot have their own articles, would there be ''any'' positive sentiment to somehow giving them a mention? Say a point in the corresponding trivia section? Or failing that, an external link at the bottom of the [[Kitbash]] page to some other archive (if one even exists?)? [[User:Drmick|Drmick]] 12:08, 9 April 2010 (EDT)
:They've already got a mention in the [[kitbashing]] article, and that suffices. --[[User:Detour|Detour]] 12:21, 9 April 2010 (EDT)

== 1993 European G1 character disambuigation. ==

We do not seem to have any guidelines for the default franchise-of-origin disambuig for the characters from the 1993 European G1 line. And if there ''are'' guidelines, they sure aren't being followed.

The main problem with this group is that all of them were sold in both the G1 and G2 lines in Europe, and many of them were also sold in the American G2 line. Because of this, there are three main groups:

Group 1: Skyscorchers and Axelerators: The American releases at most differed in name and window color from the European releases. Determining which version was out first is nearly impossible, but they were clearly designed for the European market. We currently use (G2) as the default for all of them.

Group 2: Color changers, Aguaspeeders, and Stormtroopers: The US only got the Aquaspeeder molds, but the US bios are, aside from the names, identical to Aquaspeeder and Stormtrooper bios.
*Autobot Color Changer Drench has Aquaspeeder Jetstorm's bio and stats.
*Autobot Color Changer Gobots has Aquaspeeder Deluge's bio and stats.
*Decepticon Color Changer Deluge has Stormtrooper Hydradread's bio and stats.
*Decepticon Color Changer Jetstorm has Stormtrooper Drench's bio and stats.

The Color Changers have the same unknowns as Group 1. Currently, the G2 disambuig is used.

Group 3: Lightformers and Trakkons. None were released in the US. Fearswoop uses the G1 disambuig.

Group 4: Obliterators. Named "Pyro" and "Clench" in G1, and "Spark" and "Colossus" in G2. [[Clench (G2)]] is just plain wrong.--[[User:FortMax|FortMax]] 16:26, 17 April 2010 (EDT)
:It's a tricky situation, but here are some similar cases that might help us decide:
:1) [[Go-Bot (G2)]] and [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Generation 2|Laser Optimus Prime]]
:We call these "Generation 2" despite [http://webspace.webring.com/people/ao/optimus7/G2Frenzy.jpg not having the term] [http://cdn3.ioffer.com/img/item/105/434/692/O5GD.jpg on their packaging.] The timeframe and the faction symbols are enough.
:2) [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Universe (2003)|''Universe'' "Spy Changers"]]
:The first release of these toys was in packaging that just said "Transformers" with no subline, much like the Euro pre-G2 examples. But they were released again later in ''Universe'' packaging, which we use for our categorization.
:If we apply those principles to your examples, then in every case I think we end up with G2. "Clench (G2)" is... odd, but not much odder than [[Double Clutch (G2)]].
:- [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 17:31, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
:: True, but the Gobots and Laser Prime still use the G2 version of the Transformers, but the 1993 Euro line still uses the 1992 logo. Hell, aside from the faction symbols, the 1993 toys use the 1992 EVERYTHING. --[[User:FortMax|FortMax]] 21:48, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
:::Shrug. It's not a perfect analog, but ultimately I don't think there is one. I personally don't see any way of getting an ironclad This Is It answer out of the question, but I do think the examples I gave present a pretty good guide if we want to use it. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 22:43, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
::::So should all of these transitional figures be moved to G2 disambigs if needed? Specifically, Should [[Fearswoop (G1)]] move to Fearswoop (G2)? --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 14:32, 25 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::If you're asking me, then yes. But the authority lies in the consensus of the mob (which seems to be pretty disinterested in the topic. Try moving the page! I bet you'd get some answers then.) - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 00:20, 29 June 2010 (EDT)

::Wow. I'd completely forgotten that G2 actually dropped the "Generation 2" from the packaging towards the end. Thanks. that's actually kind of good to know... --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 17:01, 25 May 2010 (EDT)

== A Visual Representation of Transformer Anatomy ==

For a very long time I've been fascinated with transformer hands and fingers, and was always noting the different ways they were portrayed in art and the toys. Sometimes they look like a painted gloved human hand, other times fingers (3, 4, 5, or more?) are like a bunch of linked short cylinders, and often they are made of various polygons with enormous variation. And then there are the 'hands' that are actually claws or pinchers, or (borg-like who needs a hand-on-this-arm?) weapons like laser cannons (A certain high-ranking one-eyed Decepticon comes to mind). Looking for any articles about hands brought me to the anatomy category page, and while skimming it I realized the obvious: I was looking at a list of pages many of which could easily be represented visually.

Maybe it's been suggested before, and as near as I can tell it doesn't exist (yet), but I wonder why not have a page with a visual representation of transformer anatomy and links where possible. Some 'anatomy', like the software kind probably can't be represented pictorially, but certainly many (most?) could. It would take a lot of work from some folks skilled in illustration, but I think it'd be really cool to have a picture of a transformer (a generic male or one selected to be representative) with annotations of various anatomy, and a close-up of a head & face for head/face specific ones. There could also be a female version (for, say, heel struts, though too many specifics could easily be sexist) and maybe an animal/non-humanoid version. Cut-aways could reveal internal anatomy not easily represented with an exterior-only view and some non-anatomy (like kibble) could also be represented. I've even mused that such an illustration could be a transformer version of da Vinci's [[Wikipedia:Vitruvian_Man|Vitruvian Man] as was done before [http://tfwiki.net/wiki/Image:AHM15casey.jpg], though some readers might misunderstand and think it was an eight-limbed transformer.

So, whadyathink? Is this an old, horrible idea that was harshly rejected years ago, a kinda-sorta OK one that is priority #4,896,929.6, or worst of all does exactly this very thing exist and I somehow missed it? {{unsigned|4.254.84.116}}
:Finding said material varies between source to source. "[[Transformers: The Ultimate Guide]]", I believe, had a few X-ray shots of the TFs (Optimus comes to mind easily), being a DK book. The most recent issue of TV Magazine has a few anatomy pictures of Animated Optimus, Bumblebee, and Starscream, but I'm not sure if earlier TV Magazine issues did so as well. I think they're rather scarce on both sides of the Pacific, though I could be wrong... --[[User:Lonegamer78|Lonegamer78]] 03:05, 23 April 2010 (EDT)

::Anon poster seems to be suggesting that we make our own anatomy pictures. That's not really within the remit of this site, since we only use canonical information and therefore images. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 03:17, 23 April 2010 (EDT)
:::Heh, I need sleep... But, that answers your question, anon. --[[User:Lonegamer78|Lonegamer78]] 03:51, 23 April 2010 (EDT)

::::Another canon image I just noticed is on Takara's [[World of Transformers]] site. There's a cutaway of [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]]. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 07:37, 24 April 2010 (EDT)

==Planet Cybertron==
:First, I'd like to point at two above unresolved matters about category names and G1.5 disambs.
:Second, I'm currently motivated to update the information on the wiki regarding Cybertron locations. But I have no clue how to do it. Since we don't split them, can I just lump information from different continuities and/or continuity families together in the intro part and let the fiction section do the sourcing or should I keep the introduction to what usually amounts to "[...] is a city on Cybertron" and the contributions of various continuities unambiguously separated. Also, this whole city-state vs city thing as we've currently got it written down (mostly courtsey of the city template) is confusing the heck out of me. [[User:Geewunling|Geewunling]] 02:14, 27 April 2010 (EDT)

==Google-rank milestone==
For the first time that I've seen, a Google-search for "Transformers wiki" puts us at the top of the list, followed by Wikia and then Wikipedia. Well done, people! (Looking up character names tends to give the reverse order, but still.) - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 17:19, 6 May 2010 (EDT)
:I remember some months back, we got the #1 result when I checked, though it wasn't consistent in all areas (I made a thread at the Allspark and some people were getting us first, others weren't). Eventually, we sank back down to #2 again somehow. This is the first I've heard of anyone seeing us back at #1. Hopefully we'll stay there, this time! --[[User:DrSpengler|DrSpengler]] 17:22, 6 May 2010 (EDT)
:I get us second (tfwiki.net), fourth (tfwiki.virtutechgames.com), fifth (174-143-26-81.slicehost.net), twentyfirst (174.143.26.81) and thirty third (en.tfwiki.net) --[[User:Abates|abates]] 17:32, 6 May 2010 (EDT)
::...why on earth do we have so many aliases that are publically crawlable? --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 17:46, 6 May 2010 (EDT)
:::I PM'd Scout about it on AllSpark a while ago. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 00:12, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
::I get first... and Wikia isn't even on the first "screen" of results. ahahahah. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 23:48, 6 May 2010 (EDT)
:::Oh, and because I forgot to mention it earlier, I'm getting us at #1, too (wikia at second, Wikipedia at 3rd). With any luck, we'll keep the rank this time and never have to worry about confusion with that swirling vortex of ineptitude ever again. --[[User:DrSpengler|DrSpengler]] 00:27, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
::::Key question... are you logged into your google account when you check? -Derik (not logged in)
:::::I'm not logged into mine, but I still get us #1, Wikia #2, Wikipedia #3. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 01:49, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
::::::Yay! (You'd be surprised how often people forget Google is customizing their search results.) -[[User:Derik|Derik]] 01:50, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::::Seems the result swings back and forth, sometimes we got first while sometimes second. (I don't have a Google account.) --'''[[User:TX55|TX55]]'''''[[User talk:TX55|TALK]]'' 02:01, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
::::::::I'm logged into Google, and I get wikia first, then us, then wikipedia. Could the difference be regional? I'm Canadian, if that helps. -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 21:12, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::Oddly I get us first if I log OUT of my gmail account, but second if I am logged in. --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 12:06, 12 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::The results are pretty volatile at the moment. We'd been showing at #1 for me for a few days before Jackpot mentioned it, but since then, I've only seen us coming up in second place. I really do think it would help us if we got the alias problem mentioned above sorted out so that Google was only indexing us once. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 22:39, 7 May 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::Also people are now starting to link to us at the [http://www.metafilter.com/91256/Mad-Man-Mad-Men-Namor-sleeps-with-the-fishes wrong URL], which can only be bad for us. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 07:58, 8 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::Yeah, we need to either throw a [http://www.google.com/support/webmasters/bin/answer.py?answer=156449 "no index" robots.txt] file on those other domains (then do [http://www.google.com/support/webmasters/bin/answer.py?hl=en&answer=164734 this Webmaster Tools bit], if anyone's got those for our site), redirect them, or take them offline (depending on what would work best).
:::::::::::Maybe someone should PM McFly on the Allspark, since that was mentioned as getting a response? --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 09:52, 8 May 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::The best way, IMHO, is to use a 301 response to direct them to the proper URL . I already PM'd McFly about this, and he said that Scout handles redirects. I didn't get any response when I PM'd her though. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 18:44, 8 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::::It's final exam time now. That might have something to do with it.--[[User:Apcog|Apcog]] 19:01, 8 May 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::::I don't know whether this is just me or not, but tfwiki.virtutechgames.com is throwing a "Page Not Found" at me right now. --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 11:49, 12 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::::::It's not working for me either, looks like the alias has been deleted. Awesome! Now we just need to get the IP address, 174-143-26-81.slicehost.net and *.tfwiki.net to redirect and we're set! --[[User:Abates|abates]] 16:48, 12 May 2010 (EDT)
:Teletraan-1 just got linked on Penny Arcade's frontpage. Expect them to go out the top of Google and then have their server burst into flames. -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 05:03, 19 May 2010 (EDT)

== Pyro's Packaging Art Found (Hopefully) ==

OK, I got a big TIF scan sent over from Graham at The Hub, which I present thusly: http://miscfile.alienharmony.com/transformers/pyro.tif because it needs some cleanup and I figured I'd let someone who knows better what they're doing do said cleanup. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 06:29, 14 May 2010 (EDT)
: Hoorraaay! Cleaned up and put up. Thanks! --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 08:24, 14 May 2010 (EDT)

== What the hell is emopanda? :D ==

Hey, people have been asking me what the emopanda URL is that they see when they load up the wiki (I've seen it too). I recall it has something to do with Derik, but why is it loading when we load our wiki? --[[User:FFN|FFN]] 07:42, 19 May 2010 (EDT)
:It's Derik's site. He has a stylesheet file on there which has experimental stuff in it, which (theoretically) later gets moved to the global stylesheet here once it's all tested. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 07:55, 19 May 2010 (EDT)

==Userpage caps==
Can we get a hardline policy on User Page sizes? Preferably, the smaller the better? I'm getting juuuuuuuuust a wee bit sick of the Recent Changes page being cluttered by people turning this wiki into a fucking Myspace account. That this recent one is ''not in English'' doesn't help. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 12:27, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:My guess is we could, but page size has little to do with the number of edits that can be done to it. So, is it worth bothering about a user page limit? [[User:Geewunling|Geewunling]] 12:39, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
::Perhaps a limit to the number of times a user page can be edited in a day. --[[User:NCZ|NCZ]] 12:43, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:::Ditto. Also, I say we ban the hell out of user pages in other languages. --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 12:46, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:::How about some simple rules?
:::* '''ONE''' image for your page. That's all you need.
:::* No collection listing. Nobody cares.
:::* Keep it to one paragraph of standard info. This is not a dating site, we don't care about your likes and dislikes.
:::* Listing ''work directly related to updating this wiki'' on top of the above-mentioned paragraph is fine. Projects on your plate, past completed ones, etc, all fine.
:::* '''ENGLISH'''.
:::* All User Pages are subject to mods going "NO" and taking a chainsaw on fire to it.
:::I think this is not unreasonable. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 12:58, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
::::One more.
::::A user page can only be edited X (we'll decide the exact number later) times a day. Any more and you are subject to being temporarily banhammered. --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 13:03, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::So, would point 3 also forbid any stuff like personal canon or thoughts on canon? I kinda like those sections on user pages. [[User:Geewunling|Geewunling]] 13:06, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
::::::Basically, yes. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 13:08, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::::I'm... with Geewunling, actually. Notes like personal canon and fave things are useful for knowing what a user's biases are and what areas of the wiki they're likely to work on, which I find interesting and useful.
:::::::IMHO for the most part the real problem is people who make frequent edits to their userpage without making many wider wiki edits, not necessarily the content. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 16:48, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
::::::::That can be pretty well covered in the initial paragraph. If you like BW best and think you'll do mostly that, fine, say so. We don't need your fanfic ideas. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 16:51, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::My user page should be the guideline for all of you. [[User:Hooper X|-hx]] 17:29, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::I guess, to be straightforward with my opinion, if the person's not posting anything offensive, uploading multiple pictures, or cluttering up Recent Edits, I don't see how it matters all that much what a person has on their userpage.
::::::::::If anything, there's some people I remember wishing had ''more'' information about themselves on their userpages, especially the admins. Makes it easier to get a mental map of which regular is which. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 17:32, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::That's my opinion, too. I don't think it matters what is on a user page, even *gasp* a foreign language. If the edits could be restricted to one a day though, that would be cool. - [[User:Starfield|Starfield]] 17:36, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
::::I fully support all those points. Our space should not be dedicated to MySpace accounts for Transformers nerds. [[User:Interrobang|—Interrobang]] 17:48, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::[http://transformers.wikia.com/wiki/User_blog:Xfa27/Demolisher It could be worse...] --[[User:Abates|abates]] 18:19, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
::::::All the better that we left. [[User:Interrobang|—Interrobang]] 19:22, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
Hmmm ... what about something like all user page edits being automatically tagged as minor edits?--[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 18:39, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:I don't hide minor edits, because even "minor" edits can be big fuckups. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 19:07, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
My userpage is the one we should all aim to emulate. X-P - [[User:Chris McFeely|Chris McFeely]] 19:26, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
::Is there a function that would hide all user page edits? --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 21:26, 24 May 2010 (EDT)
:::Select "User" from the Namespace dropdown and then tick the "Invert selection" box. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 21:37, 24 May 2010 (EDT)

===No collection listing ===
[[Greg Sepelak|M Sipher]] suggested that above. Can I (or any other regular, non-admin user) tell people to remove their collection lists? [[User:Item42|Item42]] 16:04, 25 June 2010 (EDT)

== Good idea from the other place, no really! ==

Looking over the other Transformers wiki, I noticed that their recent changes takes multiple successive edits of the same page by the same user and shows them as a single listing (with a clickable drop down showing more details). Is there any way we can get this function here? --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 11:10, 26 May 2010 (EDT)

:It doesn't work like that. It actually takes multiple edits of the same page within a specific timeframe and shows them as a single listing. Whether it's the same user or not doesn't factor in. --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 15:19, 26 May 2010 (EDT)

:If you mean the enhanced recent changes page, we already have that here. You can turn it on in your preferences. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 15:54, 26 May 2010 (EDT)

::I noticed the point Blackout made after examining it more, it still seemed like a useful function - particularly with some of the problems we've had with "clogging recent changes". Good to know we have it here. --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 17:43, 26 May 2010 (EDT)

:::It's a good function (on Wikia, it only appear for anon and bot users) since it is much more convenience. --'''[[User:TX55|TX55]]'''''[[User talk:TX55|TALK]]'' 00:05, 27 May 2010 (EDT)

== Wikia's New Initiative ==

Apparently, they're now offering to absolutely remove all ads from small wikis, for 19.95 dollars a month.

Why am I not surprised? --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 15:10, 28 May 2010 (EDT)
: Hahahahaha. That's cheaper than what we pay for hosting, but still sooooo not worth it. --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 15:14, 28 May 2010 (EDT)
::It's even more stupid once you realize that some wikis are incredibly small, edited by a small group of people, and the only anons are regular editors forgetting to log in. (My wiki in a nutshell.) --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 15:20, 28 May 2010 (EDT)
:::Those are about the only wikis that would actually be eligible for this, since they have to get less than 20,000 page views a month. For comparison, we get about 8 times that per ''day''. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 19:21, 28 May 2010 (EDT)
::::And anyone running that small a wiki who's willing to throw money at it would be much better off getting their own webspace for $10/month and installing MediaWiki software on it (not to mention getting their own domain and POP e-mail and being able to upload and do whatever they want with the rest of their webspace). --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 19:40, 28 May 2010 (EDT)
:::::They're only giving it to the first 100 wikis. I'm pretty much ready to take bets on how long until Wikia realizes only twelve people in the universe have gone for it and now they must make it 19.95 dollars a ''week ''in order to make any sort of profit. --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 03:34, 29 May 2010 (EDT)

== Image leeching ==
Is there much we can do about people leeching images off the wiki? That is, people on forums directly linking the image off of our server and not bothering to rehost it. --[[User:FFN|FFN]] 12:38, 15 June 2010 (EDT)
:I believe there was a discussion about this at some point. The general consensus was to somehow get all hotlinked images to change to another image or something. --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 12:47, 15 June 2010 (EDT)
::There's plenty that can be done. The problem has been getting the folks with server access to actually do it. :> --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 13:55, 15 June 2010 (EDT)
:::Yeah, I've brought this up a few times to no avail :( --[[User:FFN|FFN]] 19:05, 15 June 2010 (EDT)
::::But seriously, people on forums are not going to stop directly linking images (thus costing you money and making the wiki perform more sluggishly than necessary) until something is done about this. --[[User:FFN|FFN]] 20:50, 17 June 2010 (EDT)
:::::Have you emailed [[User:Suki Brits|Suki Brits]] about it? Not sure how often she checks the Community Portal. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 21:34, 17 June 2010 (EDT)
::::::Good idea, I just did so. --[[User:FFN|FFN]] 01:27, 18 June 2010 (EDT)
:::::::She never got back to me. Now what? --[[User:FFN|FFN]] 21:47, 28 June 2010 (EDT)
::::::::That's about as far as I got with the subdomain issue too. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 22:08, 28 June 2010 (EDT)

== Slicehost RSS Rerouting ==

Is there any way to get the RSS feed to never switch over to the Slicehost IP? Maybe I'm the only one who bothers subscribing to the Recent Changes feed, but it's really annoying ending up with dozens of duplicate entries constantly because the feed keeps switching between sending the TFWiki.net server entries and the Slicehost duplicate entries. (Not to mention that accidentally clicking to the site from the Slicehost entries instead of the TFWiki ones lands you on the wrong server for editing. Been tripped up by that a couple times, too.) --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 02:35, 22 June 2010 (EDT)
:Out of interest, what are you using as an RSS reader? --[[User:Abates|abates]] 05:05, 22 June 2010 (EDT)
::I just use Opera's built-in RSS reader. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 10:34, 22 June 2010 (EDT)

==Transform into other bots==
I was wondering if this gimmick has ever been done. As an example: Ratchet transforms into Ironhide, or something like that.
Its odd..a transformer becoming another one, but I HAD to ask if it'd be done or not.--[[User:Chipmonk328|Chipmonk328]]
:Bizarrely, [[:Image:Skywarpatron.jpg|it almost was]].--[[User:Rosicrucian|Rosicrucian]][[User Talk:Rosicrucian|Talk]] 22:54, 21 June 2010 (EDT)
::Technically it ''has'' been done, if you count [[Shockwave (Animated)]] and [[Punch (G1)]]. --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 12:40, 28 June 2010 (EDT)

==Anon Criticism==
I find this wiki to be a piece of shit. What did you hope to accomplish wih these captions? Why didn't you go to Uncyclopedia to make your articles funny? But they probably wouldn't accept on account of how lame it is. -General Q-Nek
:I just realized that by reverting your post, I wasn't following my own advice. Most people here like the jokes, if you don't like them start your own Transformers related wiki. --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 17:31, 24 June 2010 (EDT)
::Heck, go help the Wikia. Goodness knows they need it. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 17:47, 24 June 2010 (EDT)
:::But the Wikia also has jokes on it, so it won't help our humourless anon at all! --[[User:Abates|abates]] 18:43, 24 June 2010 (EDT)
::::An entire wiki delivered completely seriously would be monotonous. As the [[Transformers Wiki:Caption]] page explains, serious captions tend to be redundant, and since Transformers is a (mostly) light-hearted kids' franchise, we might as well have fun with it. Captions are also a reward for users who are frequently helpful. And Uncyclopedia is different; their wiki is devoted entirely to nonsense, and for the most part we deliver actual information in addition to these funny captions and sometimes comments. That's how I see it. --[[User:NCZ|NCZ]] 18:47, 24 June 2010 (EDT)
:::::To abates, there is some talk at the wikia about getting away from the funny. If our anonymous friend can point to an instance where the humor gets in the way of the information, that particular joke might need to be changed. Otherwise, I've gotta agree with NCZ - it's about giant frickin' robots from outer space, how serious can it really be? --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 19:00, 24 June 2010 (EDT)
::::::Yeah, what Khajidha said. While I also agree on principle that I think a serious TF wiki is probably pointless, if Wikia has to keep existing at all I'd rather see it finally go in that direction to stop being a fifth-rate copy of us. And our anon here would probably be better served helping the swap there than mouthing at us. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 19:05, 24 June 2010 (EDT)
:::::::Out of the two admins over at the Wikia, at least of them (Xeno) is firmly against losing the humour, so unfortunately I don't think it'll happen while he's in charge. --[[User:Abates|abates]] 20:17, 24 June 2010 (EDT)
::::::::Pity. I guess Wikia's going to keep going nowhere, then, until they realize that almost everyone who's OK with editing a funny wiki is already here with us. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 20:34, 24 June 2010 (EDT)

Hurr Hurr Hurrr!!! I was just joking! I wanted to see if it would get deleted. The jokes aren't to bad. ( but im still in favor of Uncyclopedia's jokes.) I actually kudos this Wikia when it comes to delivering information. A thousand lamentations. again, I thought this would be deleted, I just wanted to see how often this page would be checked. ( I guess i could of done that more efficiently.)-General Q-Nek

Also, I enjoy how calm people were when replying. I wish I had some way of helping, but I'm more of novice to the deep Transformer knowledge.-General Q-Nek
:People commenting on the humor is a semi-frequent thing, so... you get used to hauling out the counterarguments.
:As for how often pages get checked, most of the regulars keep frequent tabs on everything. If you want to track changes to any specific pages, you can create an account and add pages to your watchlist. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 00:24, 26 June 2010 (EDT)

Interesting, thanks for the info!-General Q-Nek

=="Games" vs. "Fiction"==
I noticed in [[Optimus Prime (Prime)]] that info from ''Exodus'' is filed under "Fiction", while ''War for Cyberton'' and ''Cybertron Adventures'' is in a separate "Games" section. I didn't think this was how we did things, so I was going to put everything under "Fiction" and do away with "Games", but I double-checked some movieverse articles to be sure, and lo and behold "Games" is separate there too (such as in [[Shockwave (Movie)]]). This was an explicit change - looking in the history, the Shockwave article used to have an all-inclusive "Fiction" section. Why was this changed? Games are fiction too. I see absolutely no reason to separate them, any more than we would separate the ''Find Your Fate'' books. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 14:48, 29 June 2010 (EDT)
: Splitting off video game information helps pages from getting too unwieldy. Pages such as [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]]'s are much more readable this way. --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 14:51, 29 June 2010 (EDT)
::That seems really arbitrary to me. I guess there's little harm done in doing that to Cheetor's page, since the BW games are so story-light and have no impact on other fiction. But for TF:Prime it seems anti-informative: Unlike the BW games, WfC is a defining element of the larger novel/cartoon storyline. Shunting it off into a "Games" ghetto breaks up the information flow pointlessly. I think a "Games" section should be the exception, not the rule. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 14:59, 29 June 2010 (EDT)
:::I'd actually treat WFC as the exception. It is the only video game that ever "mattered" from a story perspective. With that in mind, I would include it within Fiction. --[[User:Thylacine 2000|Thylacine 2000]] 15:02, 29 June 2010 (EDT)
::::I'd say its fiction matters very little, since the novel ''Exodus'' includes its events and supercedes it, since it's apparently written straight from the new "Prime" story bible. --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 15:39, 29 June 2010 (EDT)
::::The Movieverse games are pretty story-heavy. If you look at [[Optimus Prime (Movie)]], the game writeups are substantial, and there's nothing more superfluous about their continuities than the Titan comics or the Cyber Mission cartoons, which of course ''are'' included in "Fiction". I agree with the general principle that unwieldiness is a problem worth addressing, but this is an incredibly arbitrary way to fight it as an across-the-board rule. Scalpels and hammers and all that. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 15:31, 29 June 2010 (EDT)
:::::I think I was the one who started separating them as I wrote the sections. I mainly did it for layout reasons (I prefer to make separate sections clearly defined), and I figure that given video games are usually the least-edited types of articles on this wiki, they were considered to be a lesser form of fiction than other stuff (as seen by Walky's comment about it not mattering). Also, until WFC, video game fiction tended to be splinter continuities. --[[User:FFN|FFN]] 11:38, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::Walky's point--and it is a pertinent one, that I hadn't considered--is that in time WFC could prove to be just as much a splinter continuity. Exodus appears to be the "real" story--it certainly includes more concepts, more back history, and more of the developing brand structure that Aaron discussed in his "Once Upon A Time On Cybertron" shpiel at Botcon. WFC might differ from this "core" story the same way basically all the other games differ from theirs--and most of us ''at this point in time'' see it the other way around because we've been hearing about WFC as being the next main fiction product in and of itself since about last December, whereas ''Exodus'' was announced much more recently, seemingly out-of-the-blue, and had no advance samples / screenshots / P.R. that could compare with the WFC blitz. In other words, they treated the "real" story as an afterthought, probably because they know young kids are more into gaming than books, but in the long run WFC's fiction will matter for less. So... uhh... maybe it should stay in "Games" after all? --[[User:Thylacine 2000|Thylacine 2000]] 11:44, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::Sure, I get that. Even accepting that Exodus is going to be dominant (which at the moment is still a guess, albeit an educated one), I really dislike the idea of game-fiction being walled off by default just because of its medium. It's like we're saying that games ''can't'' matter. If we're going to start making value judgements about which fiction is primary and which is of secondary notice - not a bad idea, mind - I think we should do it right and apply it across the board. Like I said above, there's no real difference in those terms between the movieverse games and the Titan comics, so if one deserves to be sectioned off, then so does the other. I could see dividing the "Fiction" section between "Core continuities" and "Offshoots & micro-continuities", allowing the writeups on the movies + IDW comics to be read through without interruption. That could also help out some of our runaway G1 pages. But as it is now, picking on games is just a half-measure to muddled and weirdly prejudicial effect. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 07:28, 4 July 2010 (EDT)

==Hall of Fame "faction" markers?==
It dawns on me that perhaps up in the top-right with the other faction markers, we should have something indicating that this person/character is now part of the Transformers Hall of Fame. Perhaps a silver Matrix, to go along with the trophies from BC. Of course, the way Hasbro sees characters, we'd be giving this tag to four different Bumblebees, but still. I think it'd be a nice addition. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 11:05, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
:Taking the fact that they're all one character in Hasbro's eyes, should we tag the disambiguation page as well? --[[User:Bluestreak7|Bluestreak7]] 11:06, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
::No, because that's not strictly true. Predacon Megatron is apparently considered a separate "entity" from G1/Movie/Animated/Prime Megatron. Mini-Con Shockwave certainly wouldn't be considered the same as G1/En/Movie/Prime Shockwave. And let's not even go into the problems raised by putting it on the "Dinobot" disambig. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 11:19, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
:::Point. But how far do we go with each "character"? Does RID count? It got no love during the clip shows. What about the Optimus cloned and tortured to become Nemesis Prime? What about Shattered Glass? If we limit ourselves to what Hasbro showed in the clip shows, then we would lose Animated Grimlock, had he won. So how far to go with this? Just hit the big ones (G1/UT/Movie/Animted/Prime) and be done with it, or go further? I just want to see this get fleshed out before we start. --[[User:Bluestreak7|Bluestreak7]] 11:46, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
::::SG Prime actually was in the display case and apparently "is" Optimus Prime as far as the Hall is concerned. Yeah. So moving forward, I would suggest making a parallel structure for everybody involved: that is, if ANYBODY got a SG / UT / whatever version as "themselves," then everybody else could be seen as getting it too and, thus, SG Grimlock is "himself" and would have gotten the Matrix icon.
::::The RID thing bugs me--need to look more closely at those Hall display pics and see if there was ANY relevant merch in there at all. If it wasn't.... I guess we really would leave them out. It's no harder to see RID Megs and UT Megs as "being" "the" Megatron, but... this is an area where we shouldn't try to make the rules. I just wish the people who did make them had been more consistent about it. --[[User:Thylacine 2000|Thylacine 2000]] 11:56, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::Nope, nuttin' there from RID. I looked back through the display pics. Everybody has the extended G1-iverse plus Movie and Animated. Two had UT and one had SG. I guess those are the "favored" continuities and the ones in which their character analogues would get whatever icon we choose to give. And as Siph said, there was no display "crossover" from Beasts to anywhere else, so Optimus Primal isn't Optimus Prime and we are spared that degree of headache. Though here's another one: even though Hasbro had full access to the toys, they DIDN'T include Generations Prime/Megs/BB in the displays, so does that mean the Prime characters are not "themselves"? But Shattered Glass IS? --[[User:Thylacine 2000|Thylacine 2000]] 12:06, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::I bet RID clips didn't show up because of the usual Disney stuff. --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 12:29, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::I think you are over thinking it. The thing to ask yourself is, would Hasbro even consider RID Prime or Predacon Megatron for a spot of their own in the Hall of Fame? No, probably not, since "Optimus Prime" and "Megatron" pretty much covers them. - [[User:Starfield|Starfield]] 12:38, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
I would extend this to also putting gold Matrix icons on the real-life people that got hall-of-famed.--[[User:Rosicrucian|Rosicrucian]][[User Talk:Rosicrucian|Talk]] 11:47, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
:I concur. At least that's easy. We don't have multiple Peter Cullen articles floating around here. --[[User:Bluestreak7|Bluestreak7]] 11:49, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
:For an image, how about the [[:Image:BotCon2010-HOFkeepsake.jpg|silhouette of the statue seen here]]? It could be cleaned up a bit and made black and white. It could also be a little larger than our current icons. - [[User:Starfield|Starfield]] 11:54, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
::That is totally not going to be recognizable at faction icon size.--[[User:Rosicrucian|Rosicrucian]][[User Talk:Rosicrucian|Talk]] 11:55, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
[[Image:Hall of fame icon test.png|thumb|right]]
It'll have to wait until I get home from work tonight, but I feel confident I could make an icon based off of the stylized Matrix and starburst circle around it that the tops of the trophies had. I'll post it here once I have it done, and we can tweak it if we don't like it.--[[User:Rosicrucian|Rosicrucian]][[User Talk:Rosicrucian|Talk]] 12:06, 2 July 2010 (EDT)
:Alright, here's my first stab at it. If it were faction-icon sized, it'd look like this: [[Image:Hall of fame icon test.png|30px]]

:Whaddaya think? Will that hold up to being recolored gold and silver?--[[User:Rosicrucian|Rosicrucian]][[User Talk:Rosicrucian|Talk]] 00:07, 3 July 2010 (EDT)
::Hot damn, looks good to me. -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 01:33, 3 July 2010 (EDT)
::Looks great! --[[User:Abates|abates]] 01:40, 3 July 2010 (EDT)
:::Alright, the factions template code for these are "hofgold" and "hofsilver". I've tagged all the real-life inductees, as well as put a silver icon on Dinobot, but now I'm heading out to do a grocery run. Anybody should be able to tag the rest now, but I'll work on tagging some when I get back if there are any left.--[[User:Rosicrucian|Rosicrucian]][[User Talk:Rosicrucian|Talk]] 14:53, 3 July 2010 (EDT)

== The 11000th article ==

I think was [[Assembly]]. Wheeeee! Sorry, Irvine, you missed it by one... --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 18:46, 2 July 2010 (EDT)

== BigBadToyStore ==

Does that deserve an article yet? (maybe to go in the "Retailers" category) They got their first Hasbro exclusive (see http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=has19150&mode=retail). [[User:Item42|Item42]] 01:02, 3 July 2010 (EDT)

== What's Canon For Each Continuity ==

OK, after watching one seriously stupid and quite frankly embarrassing mess of a thread on the Allspark, I feel a need to say something. Namely that I'm really tired of our tendency to apply cross-continuity retcons all over the place.

Yes, everything official is canon for some continuity. But the key here is SOME CONTINUITY. I think we need to stop treating any details that take place in one continuity as if they definitely for sure affect another separate continuity. We need to start dropping the 100% in-universe conceit just a little and acknowledging the real-life reality of things. Namely that even if elements of one continuity are borrowed into another, that doesn't necessarily mean the writers of that continuity borrowed from have to acknowledge it in their own storyline. In fact, in some cases they even explicitly don't.

Just to borrow one scenario, every time we go "Oh, well, this event that happened in an Animated book/FunPub story uses some Movie concept, so obviously it's now canon for the Movie fiction too!" we just confuse the matter by presenting as canon for the Movie continuity things that have not actually happened in the actual Movie fiction, and may never actually happen in the future. Since the Movie writers--to be quite blunt and bringing in a dose of cold hard reality--probably do not know or care what an Animated reference or a FunPub story have done in their universe.

I'm not saying we shouldn't document this sort of cross-continuity mention at all, but merging pages based on it and writing it up in the main continuity sections and all that, well, it's just really getting to the point of being stupid and confusing. I'm starting to feel like, instead of getting to just write stuff up based on what happened in the actual fiction for each continuity, or what the writers who are actually in charge of writing each continuity actually said about their own continuity, now I gotta worry about mind-reading the wiki's pet fanon theories about which things that were never meant to be related by the actual authors go together after all.

And when it leads to things like some of us on the forums actually trying to tell the authors that we know better than they do about what they have planned for ''their own storylines''... just, come on people.

Yeah, I know I'm probably the only person who actually feels this way and you're just going to heap insults on me, but I'm just tired of this, especially to the degrees it's been going on lately. It makes the wiki confusing and ridiculous for me to both read and edit, especially when done in the sheer volume it's been done lately, and I don't like being in the position of feeling this negatively towards our setup. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 22:22, 5 July 2010 (EDT)

:This is a little too generic a rant to be helpful. Obviously, you're talking about the Sideways merger. What else, specifically, is being affected by this sort of thing? --[[User:Xaaron|Xaaron]] 22:32, 5 July 2010 (EDT)

::And Alignment supposedly being canon. And the renaming of the G1 characters. And merging Alpha Trion's pages. And really the whole multiversal singularity in general and everything related to that. And... etc. etc. (At least the whole thing with Sentinel Major was finally stopped by the affected author in question putting his foot down and people eventually relenting.) It's been bugging me for a while, but the mess lately was really kind of just the last straw where it tipped into "OK, this is just starting to get unignorably dumb" territory. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 22:50, 5 July 2010 (EDT)

:::Whatever Hasbro approves of is canon. It doesn't matter if people are annoyed by it or it goes against original authorial intent. Transformers is Hasbro's property and if they sign their name off on something, it is canon.
::::Pretty much. There's no question a lot of fanon made its way into the AAII, but it's official now. You can blame the writers for taking advantage of their official positions to win internet arguments, but you can't blame the Wiki for acknowledging what they got published. As for Alpha Trion, he now has the dubious honor of being one of the 13, a multiversal singularity. Merging his pages had to be done -- he can't just be one of the 13 in SOME continuities, b/c the whole point of the 13 up til now is that there's only one of each of them in the multiverse. Does it make sense that G1 Alpha Trion and SG Alpha Trion are the same guy? No, not really. But it's the officially mandated position of Hasbro now, so...roll with it. --[[User:Xaaron|Xaaron]] 23:10, 5 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::It's official for Animated. But last I knew, Sorenson was not licensed to write fiction for anything but the Animated continuity, so what he says in the Almanac is only canon for Animated and is a footnote at best in those other continuities.
:::::Now, when the actual Movie writers make some fiction officially licensed as a part of the Movie continuity saying that ROTF Sideways is the same all the other Sideways, then it'll actually be full canon for the Movie continuity.
:::::Likewise, Alpha Trion is a member of the 13 in Exodus, which is a part of the Prime continuity. I missed the part where that constitutes official fiction for any of the other continuities. Again, footnote sure, but until we get official fiction corroborating from those other continuities...
:::::He certainly can be a singularity in only those continuities that actually use the singularity. Again, step outside of the in-universe a bit and accept that in the real world the different writing teams can and do end up doing different things with their characters and storylines. They don't always fit into a nice tidy bow, and I do not think it should be our job to fanwank it into doing so; it should just be our job to present the canon as-is for each continuity's actual fiction, even if that means some contradictions.
:::::Like I said, we should not be misrepresenting things that did not happen in the official fiction specific to a continuity as if it actually did, just because it happened in an entirely separate continuity.
:::::Because, what Exodus does is no more "officially mandated by Hasbro" than what IDW does, what Animated does, what the Movies do, etc. It's ''all'' official fiction. For ''some'' continuity. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 23:35, 5 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::The entire point of a multiversal singularity is that who and what they are is official across ALL continuities. To say Alpha Trion can be a multiversal singularity only in Prime continuity is a contradiction of terms.
::::::And "official by Hasbro" means "official by Hasbro". I don't understand where this dissection of Animated and Movie universes is coming from. Sorenson wasn't given a license to Animated continuity and Michael Bay a license to Movie continuity...they were each just told to make something for Hasbro's Transformers property. The franchise indicator / universal stream breakdown for the fiction is an IN-fiction construct, not a legal distinction of rights between contributors. The movie writers don't have any more rights to those characters or properties than Sorenson, or Fun Pub, or IDW. They're all working for Hasbro. Like that quote from Nick Roche about how he thought he'd get to tell the story of Kup's reactivation, but IDW let Shane McCarthy do what he wanted with the character. IDW Kup is IDW's baby, not Roche's. They got to decide when and where he was used. And Sideways (ROTF) is Hasbro's baby, not some movie writer's. Sorenson was authorized to write about Hasbro's intellectual property called ''The Transformers'', employing the universal stream distinction for their individual franchises. Ergo, anything published in Allspark Almanac II was true for anything it said it was true for...it wasn't somehow "limited" just to Animated concepts. --[[User:Xaaron|Xaaron]] 23:55, 5 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::You're right that that's a contradiction in terms. But it only matters as much as we care about presenting the multiverse as though it's a real, consistent world. It's a fun conceit, and it subtly underlies a lot of what we do... but it's worth questioning. Which do we value more when there's a conflict: the integrity of a series, or multiversal decrees? - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 00:16, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::Hasbro "signs off" on the notion that everybody ever named Optimus Prime is the exact same character. Their use of terminology is not exactly the same as ours. We've been working around that for years. --[[User:Thylacine 2000|Thylacine 2000]] 23:03, 5 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::Good point. It's also been [[Continuity#Unified Japanese continuities|officially declared]] that RiD and the movieverse are in-continuity with G1. We never even ''tried'' to take that seriously, so why should be obligated to accept these other cross-continuity declarations?
:::::We're at a very interesting decision point here. Before it was ever acknowledged officially, the idea of the TF multiverse was accepted by fans as simply an in-universe way of giving equal regard to all of the contradictory series. But over the last decade or so, the multiverse has oozed into canon in a slipshod, right-hand-doesn't-know-what-the-left-is-doing, nobody-at-the-wheel way. And we who have taken up the burden of documenting it are starting to feel the strain of untangling the crush of continuities elbowing each other and stepping on each other's feet.
:::::I'm not sure what the ideal approach is; I wonder how comic-book wikis have dealt with this. My personal preference, as I [[Talk:Thirteen original Transformers#Alpha_Trion|elaborated elsewhere]], is to try to portray each series as it defines itself, giving only passing credence to cross-series retcons and decrees. I certainly haven't thought through all the practical ramifications, but it seems the most rational starting point to me.
:::::- [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 23:58, 5 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::RID (or ''Car Robots'', rather) is absolutely in the G1 continuity family. Just on the Japanese side. The movie thing only came up in one website timeline. [[User:Interrobang|—Interrobang]] 00:12, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::You are mistaken. RID is not in G1, but Car Robots is. Our RID is a distinct cluster (Viron) from G1 (Primax). RID and CR are in different clusters. But to keep us from having duplicate articles for everybody in Car Robots/RID, we note what's going on (or we should). We had this discussion a while ago, and I guess you weren't there or something. Japan once claimed that the movie (well, their version of the movie) took place in G1. This didn't end up happening and Japanese stuff since has ignored that tidbit, but even if it hadn't, their movie is not the same "universal stream" as ours to begin with. It would be the same thing as RID/CR. We don't ignore these things. --[[Special:Contributions/65.60.140.213|65.60.140.213]] 00:14, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::Thank you for the clarification. And to clarify my own words, I never meant to suggest that we did or should ''ignore'' anything. It's all a matter of relative value. If, for instance, we placed a high value on the Japanese timeline and the attendant CR/RiD split, we WOULD have separate articles or more prominent declarations or ''something'' more than we currently do, which is just about jack (as evidenced by my ignorance). On the flipside, we ARE placing a high value on the FunPub model of the multiverse, letting it dictate article structure and primary presentation. We're even letting it define post-FunPub claims: As far as I know, all that the ''Prime'' universe has said about its Alpha Trion is that he was one of the original 13 TFs, a claim that has no multiversal relevance at ALL unless you apply the FunPub notion that The 13 are singularities. If we valued the FunPub model at the same level we do the Japanese continuity, we wouldn't be arguing over how that chain of cross-continuity associations should define our article structure. We'd just default to the normal continuity-family schema and make notes as appropriate. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 00:35, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::::Well, we have a separate [[:Category:Car Robots characters|category]] with all of the alternate names. We also have write ups for [[Fortress Maximus (RID)#Kiss Players|Brave Maximus's adventures in ''Kiss Players'']]. What is it you're looking for to prove we acknowledge CR as part of the G1 family? [[User:Interrobang|—Interrobang]] 00:57, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::::If you want to argue it some more, Jackpot, [[Talk:Robots_in_Disguise_(franchise)#Car_Robots|have at it]]. --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 00:58, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::::::Thanks for the link. I did indeed miss that whole discussion. But I have less than zero desire to argue against anything in it, and you're missing my point completely if you think that's what I'm even talking about. Yes, fine, we take the Japanese CR/G1 thing seriously, but even Interrobang's examples still demonstrate that we acknowledge it ''secondarily,'' through redirects and notes. The end result of that linked discussion was that we DON'T change our article structures or primary presentations to accomodate it. As opposed to the FunPub model of the multiverse, which we HAVE been allowing to dictate our presentation, at least up until the new Alpha Trion thing generated this debate. All I'm saying is that we have more than one established option for dealing with cross-continuity declarations, which means the question of how we deal with singularities isn't as open-and-shut as some think it is. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 02:20, 6 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::You do have to agree that the CR/RID thing is a special case in that it would require that we have 100-plus articles that are exactly the same other than what they're named at the top. (And X-Brawn's personality would be different.) This is not the case for multiversal stuff, since it does not require us to be redundant on such a massive scale. I'm not sure why you think our attempt at avoiding massive redundancy should dictate how we treat entirely dissimilar things. --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 09:14, 6 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::::I'm not saying that the CR-G1 thing should ''dictate'' what we do the FunPub stuff, just that it's a precedent worth considering. In fact, I believe you and I are closer in principle than you think. If we allowed the Japanese model of the multiverse to guide our presentation, we would indeed have to do this massively redundant re-org, but we've collectively decided it's not worth it, so we don't. You and I are on the same page there. What I'm doing is using the same principle to say that we likewise don't have to let the FubPub model of the multiverse make us jump up and rearrange article content every time we hear a whisper of "singularity." We can still present all the same information, but reprioritize it ''underneath'' our tried-and-true foundation of dividing articles by continuity-family.
:::::::::::::Here's an example of how this might work (I'm thinking out loud here, so don't take this as me drawing a line in the sand or whatever): In Alpha Trion's case, we could keep all the pages separate but, say, add a line to the end of each intro: "According to some sources, this Alpha Trion is the same individual as all the rest," with appropriate links. It would be more prominent than burying it in "Trivia," but not so dominant that it dictates our entire presentation. It also would give breathing room to the various ways the character has been portrayed, so the reader can get a better sense of the pieces that make up the whole, rather than get a giant, muddled, ill-conceived "whole" that we all think is kind of silly anyway. The ''Prime'' version of AT would be written up with a more multiversal slant than the rest, of course, but I don't think we'd need to jam ''everything'' onto his page to get that point across. In the end, we would still be documenting all of the info and ignoring nothing, but I think the presentation would be much more in-line with the reality of how the character has actually been written over the years.
:::::::::::::- [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 16:28, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::Yeah, I lean about the same way as Jackpot. The Multiverse thing was fine when it was just a vague umbrella to tie together a hundred different continuities. But having one story or source reach out and re-write details of half a dozen other stories at the same time? I dunno so much about that. Seems to me that things like "Alpha Trion the old doddering cartoon guy is a multiversal singularity according to whatever source" ought to be kept in a Notes box or section, not integrated alongside info that actually came directly from the G1 cartoon. -- [[User:Repowers|Repowers]] 00:15, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::There's an irony in the fact that the multiverse started as a tool for the fans to keep order and sanity in spite of the TFverse's freewheeling structure. I remember for YEARS the doctrine of "everything is canon, there are just multiple continuities" had to be diligently repeated in forum threads before it took hold in fandom zeitgeist. But now that the creators have gotten into the multiverse game without giving up the loose approach, our tool has been turned against us. There's no handy maxim to settle things anymore. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 02:20, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:It is a little bit more difficult to brush these things off when the fiction is explicitly dealing with "The [[Multiverse]]". It is officially establishing new facts in multiple timestreams. I say this as someone who doesn't always like it when long-time nameless things get retroactive names. The Alignment thing is kind of wonky. It goes beyond the Multiverse and sort of breaks the fourth wall and directly tweaks real-world information. - [[User:Starfield|Starfield]] 23:37, 5 July 2010 (EDT)

::My prediction: this Multiverse hogwash will get way too overcomplicated. It's then going to get some much tangled up, no one will ever be able to figure out anything. Giant crisis cross-over's gonna happen, DC Comics style. Continuity will get completely rebooted. The Fandom will flip their collective shit over it. I'll be here chilling while everyone's still throwing around cluster f-bombs. Don't worry about it guys, it's not our jobs to fix it, just to record it as it happens. Write it all down, let Hasbro sort it out. :P --[[User:Ascendron|Ascendron]] 02:00, 6 July 2010 (EDT)
:::I think that's already happening with ''Exodus''{{'}}s continuity mixing (although it contradicted the game lol). ''Transformers: Prime'' probably doesn't just mean the show's focus on what it means to be a Prime, but also literally being an [[Wikipedia:Earth Prime|Earth Prime]] for the multiverse. [[User:Alientraveller|Alientraveller]] 04:53, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

''Disclaimer: I like they way we have been doing things and don't mind multiversal retcons. It's all just fiction, one continuity effecting another is cool to me, and the more layers it gets the more fun, IMO.'' '''THAT SAID:''' If there's a conflict, I'm with the "ours is not to reason why (or make un-stupid) ours is but to record" crowd. When a new source changes a past source I say we give '''NEITHER''' precedence but record both with equal weight on the page. One Alpha Trion page, but we make it very clear on the page that X is what he was like in the G1 toon, and Y is what a later source says he is. Put the focus on simply '''Recording Information''' rather than prioratizing it. It may require stepping "out of universe" a little more often in our entries, but that's a good thing if it clarifies the expression of information, our main goal. (Just like how we forgo humorous picture captions when we need a real one to express something clearly to the reader.) My 2-cents.--[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 07:31, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:Just a side note, my 3rd cent if you will, this is pretty much already how we do [[Unicron]], with details of his various retconed backstories and the current story's conflicts all recorded "Out of universe" clearly and prominently on the page. Its a good model for Alpha Trion, Sideways and all to follow, IMO. --[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 09:28, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::Sound good to me. --'''[[User:TX55|TX55]]'''''[[User talk:TX55|TALK]]'' 10:42, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::I'm with Zac on this. My understanding is Alpha Trion is now officially a multiversal singularity solely because someone put up a slide with his name on it at BotCon. If that's all we've got to go on, it's obviously not going to make much sense, but that's not Hasbro's problem -- they can't make announcements in a time and manner that makes it easy for the Wiki to record the information. We just have to roll with the punches and make the changes that are necessary to reflect the official information. There's no point in complaining about the fact that this information exists; that's an issue for message boards or your blog.

::So A3 is a multiversal singularity now. Them's the breaks. If we need to do some tongue-in-cheek writing to acknowledge it (like the openings for [[Scrapper (G1)#Cartoon continuity|Scrapper]] and [[Scavenger (G1)#Cartoon continuity|Scavenger]] in their cartoon fiction section), then we do it. But arguing about this and the AAII and whether official info counts or doesn't count unless it was published in the right medium or with the right franchise header is asinine. --[[User:Xaaron|Xaaron]] 10:37, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::It's not asinine at all. Different branded fiction in the TFverse has different editorial and writing boards writing it. Different companies have different licenses to create specific types of media, explicitly not being allowed to create media they're not licensed for. Hasbro has demonstratively shown a very anal and strong hand in making sure that things like the Movie comics fit into canon. In at least one case we know of (FunPub), there are even specific mandates about which continuities can't be directly written in/for by that company and which continuities aren't affected by their fiction. So Hasbro, at least, is actually shown to be very clear about who can write in what medium and for what storyline, and what is and isn't allowed in a certain storyline.
:::Meanwhile, I have no problem acknowledging that Trion is a singularity in those continuities that have one. But the fact of the real-life situation is that not every continuity uses the concept.
:::We need to accept that the real-life factual way this all has been working up until now does not always fit tidily or work how we wish it would work. And like I said, it's our job to report on what officially happened, not our fanwank theories. Especially when this wiki is theoretically supposed to be for those fans looking for information on what actually has happened in official fiction, not what we wish would happen. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 12:05, 6 July 2010 (EDT)
::::Saying FunPub can't publish movie material b/c Hasbro won't allow it is one thing; saying material that WAS published should be ignored or disavowed is another. Again, assumptions -- you have no evidence that Hasbro said the Allspark Almanac was NOT allowed to reference other continuities, and the Almanac itself is evidence that Hasbro DID allow it. The proof is in the publication...to go beyond that is you assuming you know Hasbro's policies better than the Hasbro employees who allowed the Almanac to be printed in the first place. --[[User:Xaaron|Xaaron]] 12:27, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::Actually, it's the other way around. Since the Almanac is branded only as a guide to Animated (and thus very likely did not go through the same editorial process that the branded fiction in the other continuities goes through, only Animated's process), and Hasbro has been shown to be very anal about the info that goes into its officially branded fiction in other continuities, you need proof that Hasbro approved the Almanac as anything but a guide to Animated. Anything else is an unfounded assumption with no proof. Especially when, like I said, we instead have explicit proof that continuities are not always obligated to acknowledge cross-continuity mentions, and that some companies aren't even allowed to write any direct canon at all in some continuities.
:::::The only thing the publication of the Almanac proves is that it was approved as Animated fiction, since that's what it's branded and marketed as. Going beyond that is you assuming you know Hasbro's policies at all. Because I've never seen anything that indicates that Hasbro considers cross-continuity retcons to be binding, and in fact have seen several indications that they don't, so I sure as heck am not going to be making any assumption about that matter.
:::::On top of that, when it comes to Sentinel Major, we know 100% for certain that the Almanac was not approved by Hasbro as being binding to FunPub fiction, based on Pete stating it's not as FunPub's Head Editor, so that calls into doubt its so-called applicability to any other continuity as well. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 12:44, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::No, Jeysie...no. A thousand times no. "The only thing the publication of the Almanac proves is that it was approved <strike>as Animated fiction</strike>." You're the one assuming the Animated brand has weight and meaning beyond being a mast head. You're the one assuming Sorenson was told he can only write Animated fiction. You're the one assuming b/c FunPub has a certain type of limitation, every other publication has something similar even though we've heard nothing about that from Hasbro or the writing team. And you're the one assuming that Hasbro didn't mean to publish things it actually DID publish.
::::::All the assumptions here are on you. I don't need to prove your elaborate series of assumptions about the inner workings of Hasbro are false. You need to prove they are true. --[[User:Xaaron|Xaaron]] 13:08, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::Yes, a thousand times yes. If anyone can publish any fiction in any continuity at any time, why bother branding it or having dedicated regular writing teams or anything at all? Why not just brand everything as Transformers with zero differences and let all the writers write whatever they want in any series?
:::::::Why would Hasbro work closely with teams like the WFC folks or the Movie comic folks to make sure everything matches up the way they want it if they didn't care about the continuities of those series? Why would Hasbro do things like disallow FunPub from writing their own OC ever again because they want to use him in their new continuity? Why would they turn around and give one-liner cameos in completely unrelated fiction a free pass to affect those other continuities?
:::::::Yes, I do assume that the Animated brand has weight beyond being a masthead. If this very wiki assumes that the logo has meaning for the toys, why is the fiction about those toys magically exempt? It fits into franchises exactly the same way, and indeed we actually have made decisions on this very precept. (The discussion of treating the ROTF toys ''and fiction'' as separate from the 2K7 line, and whether we should treat the SG ''fiction'' as SG vs. as Timelines-branded fiction comes to mind off the top of my head.)
:::::::Not only that, but the Almanac is very clearly being marketed to customers as being based in Animated, as a guide to Animated. There's literally nothing about the Almanac at all that says customers should be expected, in a marketing sense, to treat it as also being a guide to anything else; no extra official logos, I'm assuming no editorial note to the effect in the book (if anything, we had the exact opposite statement from Sorenson himself!), etc.
:::::::On top of that, like I said, Mowry got ridden to keep continuity in his Movie comics. So basically, to reiterate, you're trying to tell me that the guy tapped to write directly-branded fiction gets paid close attention to by Hasbro, but an admitted throwaway joke in a completely different continuity that contradicts officially-branded Movie fiction gets waved through, no worries?
:::::::And again, like I said for the umpteenth time, we have '''direct evidence''' that no, the Almanac is not canon for all other continuities, and that no, other continuities don't necessarily have to care what fiction in other continuities do.
:::::::And I have proved that my assumptions are true, based on, like I've already said umpteen times, direct evidence of how Hasbro has handled things. I've given you evidence of licensing restrictions, continuity restrictions, how Hasbro edits the canon for each storyline, how some continuities explicitly don't acknowledge others, etc.
:::::::Meanwhile, all you've given me is your assumptions based on... well, nothing at all except your own assumptions. I'd say the burden of proof is on you, bub. You've been feeding me nothing but a lot of illogical statements that make no sense compared to how writing a storyline actually works or even how the treatment of the various bits of fiction by the licensees and Hasbro has been shown to work in reality. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 14:48, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::::Yes. Very much so. And more, why we should care over the simple and logical: "Hasbro aproves it, then its canon for whatever continuity(ies) it says it is." rule we have now.--[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 14:29, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::::Because it's not logical at all.
:::::::::The logical thing to do is assume that what's canon for a continuity is the official fiction for that continuity and what the people actually writing said fiction have said is canon. Because that way you're getting the fiction how it was supposed to be presented in a literary sense, in terms of what the people actually writing it intended as canon for their story.
:::::::::Meanwhile, there's absolutely zero logical about assuming that someone who has no connection at all to the regular writing or editing of a story should know anything about it or should make an official contribution to it. Nor is there anything logical about assuming to be part of a story things that were never intended to be in it.
:::::::::I mean, for heavens sake, the various writers can't even keep their ''own'' continuities straight half the time, and we have lots of errors in stories that were explicitly meant to go together. Why compound the problem by linking together things that ''weren't'' meant to go together? It makes no sense at all from a literary standpoint, from a practical standpoint, or from the standpoint of a casual reader who wants to know what actually happened in a certain continuity, not what we fans think happened based on fanon speculation. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 14:58, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::I'd agree. [[Prowl II]] was pretty much the same "two different guys smashed together into one big continuity monster because of a reference book" situation, and nobody's split him back up into Chip Chase-in-a-Prowl-suit and Prowl the Owl. [[User:Omnibus|Omnibus]] 11:35, 6 July 2010 (EDT)
::::Gotta go with Zac and company here. These things have been said, we need to record it. Put any notes about possible problems and confusions, but I don't see how to get around the bare fact that it has been done. --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 11:39, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::If this is such a big deal, for Sideways, might I suggest considering something similar to what we did with [[Ramulus]]'s page, because of the ambiguity of his identity as Longhorn? Two seperate pages, but still presented with the facts that we know of them being hinted as the same character. Or heck, even [[Lazorbeak]] has a nice note noting that he may-or-may-not-be the original Laserbeak. It's not like we have just two options in this matter really. --[[User:Ascendron|Ascendron]] 13:05, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:Quoting Zac: ''When a new source changes a past source I say we give '''NEITHER''' precedence but record both with equal weight on the page. One Alpha Trion page, but we make it very clear on the page that X is what he was like in the G1 toon, and Y is what a later source says he is.'' It's impossible NOT to prioritize. By advocating the merging of singularity pages, you're giving priority to that kind of retcon. That's really what all of this is about - no one is saying we should IGNORE canon information, just that we should think twice about letting every new multiversal declaration make us rearrange how we structure our presentation. See my proposal above - there are other ways of doing this. It's a pure strawman to say that anything other than page-merging is anti-canon chaos. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 16:47, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

<nowiki>*</nowiki>wearily just gestures that she thinks Jackpot's arguments and suggestions make sense* --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 16:55, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

=== Does Hasbro Matter? ===

''(Moved down from earlier in the down in an attempt to keep things organized.)''

:::::Exactly. That's why Jeysies idea of how continuity should work strikes me as very very '''wrong'''. The ONLY way we have of determining what is official canon in TF is by what Hasbro officially publishes. PERIOD. If you start allowing people to say "Hasbro didn't really ''mean'' that" or "Hasbro didn't know what they were saying" or "Hasbro didn't mean to approve what they clearly approved" then you open up EVERYTHING ABOUT EVERYTHING to any interpretation or negation that any fan wants to pull out of nowhere. That way lies complete dissolution of all meaning and canon. You don't know better that Hasbro what they mean or what's "right". Feel free to HATE retcons and multi-sings but they exist: Hasbro MADE THEM and HAS THE RIGHT TO MAKE THEM and so it is this wiki's purpose to record that, not put our heads in the sand and imagine "they can't do that" shape the fiction into the shape we'd prefer.--[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 12:47, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::Well, you know, I'm only going by the real-life facts of how the reality actually works regards Hasbro's licenses, different editorial and writing boards, different brandings on each fiction, statements from actual creators (including Sorenson himself), etc. But I guess clearly our pet fanwank takes precedent over the facts and reality presented to us by the people actually officially creating the fiction?
::::::I mean, like I said above, we already have one instance where we know 100% for certain that what was written in the Almanac is not canon for a non-Animated continuity. And even Sorenson stated himself that the jokey references were just that: jokey references.
::::::No, I don't know for sure what Hasbro's full policies are. Just that, unlike you folks, I'm thus playing it safe and only assuming what we have proof to assume, based on actual real-world facts.
::::::I don't hate retcons or the multiversal concept. Nor am I basing my case on which retcons I do and don't like: for instance, I hate McCarthy's retcons, but since he's a writer hired specifically to write in IDW's G1 continuity, his retcons are nonetheless considered by the people actually creating the continuity as canon for that continuity.
::::::I am just stating that we have zero proof that said retcons or concepts absolutely have to apply to anything but the specific continuities they were presented in, and instead plenty of proof that in many cases they explicitly ''don't'' apply outside their specific continuities. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 12:59, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::Yes Hasbro controls who publishes what. Of course they do. No one is arguing otherwise. That doesn't matter at all and SHOULDN'T matter at all as far as the wiki is concerned. What matters is '''what they alowed to be published.''' If its published, its canon. If something is published that is a mostly an Animated story but touches on G1 continuity because of dimensional travel that DOSN'T mean it isn't G1 canon because it was "An Animated" story, it means that the story was a "G1 and Animated crossover story" and what it said is canon to both. If Hasbro says something is a Multiversal Singularity and that this means there is only ONE if it in ALL continuities, than we have to accept that this means what it says: ALL CONTINUITIES.

:::::If we start assuming that not everything Hasbro publishes is canon, or that they "Maybe did't mean that, really" then we have no way to diffentiate official from fanon at all. We've never had a rule about one branded fiction "not being able to effect" other branded canon because 1) thats counter to the whole Multiverse idea that Hasbro's very much embraced, and 2) Hasbro themselves clearly DO NOT have such a rule in 99% of cases, or they wouldn't approve so many dimension hopping character or stories. Hasbro does approve stories where continuities cross over and effect one another and that retcon past continuities (like it or not) so they are canon and its our job to record them as we are given them. Not to make value judgements about how much Hasbro "meant them". --[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 13:09, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::Again, as I've stated several times already, I never said some things weren't canon. But ''which continuity they're canon for'' is the question.
::::::I mean, I've absolutely no argument whatsoever at all about the info in the Almanac being canon for Animated, seeing as how it's branded with the Animated logo. So I'm not saying that the Almanac isn't canon. But that means zero about whether it's canon ''for any other continuity''. And we know in at least one instance it ''explicitly isn't''.
::::::And, *facepalm* Like I said, some continuities have explicitly actually been stated as ''not'' being a part of or beholden to the multiversal concept or cross-continuity retcons. And just because one continuity does dimension-hopping doesn't mean any other continuity is obligated to actually care. Each storyline has a separate set of dedicated writers and editors all doing their own thing. We have no evidence showing they ''have'' to pay attention to each other (though some obviously choose to), and some evidence of cases where they quite explicitly don't. That's the whole reason to for continuities and micro-continuities and splinter continuities in the first place, acknowledging that something that's canon for one continuity may not be canon for another. We just need to finally accept that reality across the board.
::::::Also, when we do this sort of cross-continuity retcon, we're accepting the thought that people who are not part of a continuity's dedicated regular writers and editors and thus probably know nothing about what those people are doing with their storyline still know what's going on in it canonically. Even more moronically, sometimes we even do this over the word of the people ''actually writing the contested storyline''! If people can't realize how utterly stupid that is (I mean, just because I'm officially writing in one continuity doesn't mean I know jack about what the writing team in another continuity is doing)...
::::::And no, saying that Hasbro's word goes doesn't mean anything, because if Hasbro were really truly mandating all of these cross-continuity things, then the people writing those other continuities ''would be forced to use them and thus wouldn't be claiming they don't apply or contradicting them in the actual fiction''. I would think this would be obvious logic... --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 13:34, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::To address your points in order:

:::::::1) Anything aproved by Hasbro is canon. We both agree there, yes? Why, then, do you think there is debate about what continuity it is canon for? If Hasbro publishes a story that touches on any and all continuites then '''it is canon for those continuities'''. Were they to have, say, RiD and BW crossover than YES it IS DEFINATLY canon for both RiD and BW. Why? Because that's what they published. To imagine anything else is counter intuitive, overly complicated, and putting the determining factor for canon on US rather than Hasbro, which is WRONG. You don't have to like it, but there it is. Any other way is uselessly arbitrary and complex.

:::::::2)No I do not believe any continuity has been confirmed by Hasbro to be outside the Multiverse. If fact they've said the opposite, that the multiverse contains all TF universes. And that Singularities specifically exist in All Continuities. (Thats what it MEANS.) FP said informally they wouldn't touch the movie stuff with their fiction because the Movie stuff is an exceptional really complicated issue driven by outside powers, that's not saying that its outside the multiversal stuff, as Hasbro has specifically published a SCRAP-TON of stuff connecting the movie continuity family to the greater multiverse.

:::::::3)Sorry to be blunt but I don't think Creators mater here at all. They're totally beside the point. "Dedicated fiction teams" (in the rare cases they exist) don't matter. They're all "work for hire" folks who come and go. Hasbro is the authority on whats canon. They have to be or there is no canon.

:::::::4)Your final paragraph above is absolutly wrong and missing the point IMO. The only way we have and ''have ever had'' of establishing what is official TF canon is by what Hasbro approves. It doesn't matter if they "enforce" a storyline on every writer for it to be canon. All that matters is that they approve it to be published. That's what makes canon. Thats the only thing that can make canon. If you start doing what you're doing and saying "Oh they can't really mean that, because x" or "they can't let x writer retcon the work of y writer" then you are making yourself the judge of canon and it stops being official canon. We have to stick to "Everything Hasbro publishes is official canon for the universe (all universes) that the story says it is" or we're just making up fanon. --[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 14:19, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:1. Because we the wiki DOES debate what continuity something is canon for. Why do we have continuity families, continuities, micro-continuities, splinter timelines, etc. at all if we don't care about what goes in what continuity? Why did we split up ROTF from 2K7--both the toys AND the fiction--if the branding doesn't matter? Why did we debate whether SG--again, both toys AND fiction--counts as SG or Timelines based on how the fiction is branded if the branding doesn't matter?
:To me, assuming that fiction in one continuity somehow affects fiction in another continuity is what is extremely counter-intuitive, based on both my personal experience as a writer and my experience of what has happened in real-life vs. what the actual creators themselves have said about how various bits of fiction do and don't fit together.
:It is, however, completely intuitive to assume that if a bit of fiction is branded for a continuity, it's canon for THAT continuity. That's the whole damn point of the branding to begin with, to signal to readers that this fiction, this toy, this tech spec, belongs to THIS certain franchise/universe/continuity.
:As for it being overly complicated, I actually consider it more overly complicated to do lots of fanwank academic gymnastics to try and figure out how to things that were never meant to fit together and might well be completely contradictory fit together after all. Like I've said elsewhere, it's not as if stories that actually ''were'' meant to fit together don't manage to have enough errors already anyway, without us helping things along.
:I will concede it might be more complicated for us to catalog, but tough shit, reality doesn't always play nice with what you want.
:2. I've never heard a single statement that says all continuities have to include the multiversal concept. Meanwhile, I've seen plenty of evidence to the contrary. That the Movies are outside of the multiversal idea. That bits of the Almanac explicitly aren't canon for some continuities. Statements from creators about their own continuities... who, like I said, would not be making those statements if Hasbro had actually mandated differently to them.
:3. XD You can't be serious. Yes, the people directly writing each continuity matter because, um, you know, they're the ones ''actually writing the stories''. Dur. Yes, writing teams change, but they change ''within those continuities''. For instance, when McCarthy took over for Furman, he took over under IDW's editorial, writing for IDW's storyline. He didn't take over for Animated, he didn't take over for the Movies, he isn't working for Prime, he doesn't work for FunPub. He's the new guy for a specific company under a specific editor for a specific continuity.
:And yes, what Hasbro says is canon. For some continuity. And again, if Hasbro was actually mandating all these cross-continuity claims, we wouldn't even be having this debate to begin with because ''all of the fiction and statements from the creators would reflect that'' so there would be no argument. I've seen plenty of evidence that Hasbro cares very much about what goes on in certain specific continuities. I've seen no evidence at all of Hasbro mandating cross-continuity things, however, and in fact just the opposite.
:4. Just the opposite, it's utterly making up fanon to assume that things branded as one continuity have any affect at all on a completely different continuity, even when those people claim different or even write official fiction stating differently. It's fanon to assume that we fans or people not assigned to write directly for a continuity know better about what is planned for that other continuity than the people who actually are writing for that continuity. (Not to mention, to be quite blunt about it, just plain fucking stupid.) --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 15:23, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::From your second point; if the movies are outside the multiverse idea, why do at least two multiversal singularities appear in it? Or do Unicron and the Fallen not count? -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 17:27, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::I think [[Talk:Thirteen original Transformers#Another perspective on Multiuniversal Singularities|this covers it pretty well]]. But the short version, they're versions of Unicron and the Fallen who aren't singularities. Pretty simple. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 17:55, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::The writing in one continuity does not affect any other continuity/ies.... ''except when it does''. Animated Arcee being a schoolteacher does not make G1 Arcee a schoolteacher. A god warping the fabric of reality such that every entity ever named Arcee is now said to have been a schoolteacher DOES make G1 Arcee a schoolteacher. Sideways being long-established for years as having had the power to warp from one continuity to the next means that he actually can do that, and the things he's said to do in some continuity he hadn't visited earlier can certainly be attributed to him, being there, doing it. If the writers go all-out along those lines and it gets published, then it is canon. I know there's a fair amount of author-intent debating here every now and then, but I don't think "in-continuity author intent supremacy" is a popularly-held viewpoint, let alone one stable enough on which to build this wiki in the future. We would certainly have to un-happen Beast Machines, which we're bloody well not. --[[User:Thylacine 2000|Thylacine 2000]] 15:36, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::I can't speak for Jeysie's view, but I do think that series-integrity should be given higher priority than we currenty do, and I see absolutely no need to "un-happen ''Beast Machines''." The changes being discussed are a lot subtler than that. As I see it, all we need to do to maintain BW's integrity despite BM's retcons is just to make sure we don't, for example, talk about the Allspark in a section titled "''Beast Wars'' cartoon". Which is pretty much how it is now, so no big deal. Where this really comes into play is the singularity stuff; jamming everything into a single article fosters a sense of retcon-supremacy. If it's our goal to try to present the multiverse as a single, cohesive whole, then yes, I would agree that the retcons should be given primacy. But I see no particular reason to give that conceit so much weight. Each series has its own view of the multiverse (or none at all), and it's a ''choice'' on our part as to how to present it when one series's multiverse-model treads on another series's territory. We don't have the choice of ''ignoring'' it... but we do have options for how it affects our presentation. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 17:38, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::I can't speak in detail about something like BM, not having seen it, but again, I think you covered my viewpoint pretty well. I'm not saying we should flat out ignore any canon. But there ''is'' a difference between simply mentioning a given detail somehow, and treating that given detail as major enough in a certain continuity to affect our organization.
::::I feel like cross-continuity things should almost always be the former rather than the latter unless we really have solid, official reason to treat a cross-continuity detail as being major for that other continuity. (As in, corroboration from fiction branded with that continuity or someone who regularly deals with that other continuity, not just a mere mention in whatever publication in a separate continuity.)
::::Especially since, it just doesn't hurt us at all to play it safe this way. We're not ignoring the info. We're not presenting it as being not valid at all. We're just reasonably not taking a firm stance on something, especially a major difference, unless we have really solid reason to know it's the case. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 18:04, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::Sure. I just discovered the debate over on [[Talk:Sideways#Talk:Sideways (ROTF)|Talk:Sideways]], and that actually provides a good example: I have no problem with ''Animated'' Sideways being on the UT Sideways page because ''Animated'' took the UT dimension-hopper thing and ran with it. However, I'd prefer that the live-action Sideways NOT be on the same page because the movieverse doesn't acknowledge the connection. Yes, let's absolutely document the retcon, but make it a link instead of a merger. That way, the information is still conveyed, but we let series-integrity define our presentation instead of the mythical idea of a consistent, unified multiverse. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 18:21, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::You are actually pretty badly misrepresenting the discussion there. We aren't saying that Movie Sideways isn't UT Sideways because the Movie universe says so, we're saying that they aren't the same because the evidence presented in the AAII doesn't prove that he is beyond a shadow of a doubt. All it says is that the was planning to go to Shanghai, but that Shanghai could be in the UT, RiD, Animated or Robot Masters universes just as easily as the Movie universe. We're not saying definitively that they are not the same guy, just that there is not enough evidence to prove he is. -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 19:01, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::I'm not trying to represent your arguments at all. I'm defining my own answer on my own terms. For what it's worth, I see the phrase "the same guy" as an... overly-simplistic way of looking at the question. Different series provide different views of who's the "same" as who, and my suggestions are keyed to preserving those differences of perspective. - [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 19:21, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::::So then why even bother brining the discussion up? You may as well have cited Weekend at Bernie's. -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 19:23, 6 July 2010 (EDT)

===Jackpot's Guide to the Multiverse===
In the discussion above, I started piecing together a sensible approach to dealing with cross-continuity issues, but it's kind of scattered and buried up there, so I figured I'd spell out the principles I'm working with:

'''1) By default, articles should be separated from each other by continuity-family.'''

I don't expect much disagreement here, since it's how we actually do things 99% of the time. There are of course exceptions when the subject is sufficiently universal, like [[Cybertron (planet)]]. And at the moment, we also make exceptions for [[Multiversal singularity|singularities]] and dimension-hoppers. I only bring the principle up to say that when I advocate separating articles, this is the standard I'm falling back on.

'''2) Everything with a Hasbro trademark is canon, and we should document it.'''

Pretty sure we're all together on this one. The thorny issue is HOW to document it.

'''3) Each series should be presented as it presents itself.'''

Again, this is pretty much how we already do things. When we talk about Starscream [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|in the context of the G1 'toon]], he's a "ghost," but when it's [[Starscream (G1)#Beast Wars cartoon|in a BW context]], he's a "spark." Where we're starting to see problems is with singularities and dimension-hoppers. For example, the ''Animated Almanac'' strongly suggests that [[Sideways (RID)#Animated|its version of Sideways]] is the same individual as his [[Sideways (ROTF)|movieverse namesake]]. But within the movieverse, there's zero evidence of any connection. There's been [[Talk:Sideways (RID)#ROTF Sideways is not UT Sideways|debate]] over whether the ''Almanac'' claim is "proof" or just an "Easter egg," but let's assume for sake of argument that it's an ironclad declaration. In that case, one series's self-presentation contradicts another's. Our job is to present them both, each with the prominence that it merits, no matter how at-odds they may be. Which leads to the next point...

'''4) There is no single, consistent multiverse.'''

I think this is my most controversial notion. Almost every argument I've seen in favor of merging articles rests on the assumption that continuity is a two-way street: If one source makes a statement about another universe, then by gum that other universe needs to be roped in. But the reality is that TF fiction comprises a bunch of independent series written with little or no regard to each other, each with its own view of the multiverse (or lack thereof). For example, it was brought up in [[Talk:Thirteen original Transformers#Alpha Trion|this discussion]] that Pete Sinclair, when pressed about how [[Nexus Prime]] related to the [[Dynasty of Primes]], dismissed the live-action universe as [http://www.allspark.com/forums/index.php?s=e9b629aca941d8a17156fb5d9a62cbba&showtopic=64273&st=20&p=1388259&#entry1388259 "outside the multiverse." ] This statement is of course not canon, but it illustrates the real-life situation, where Orci and Kurtzman didn't get the memo about what was going on in the fan-club comic while they were writing the movies. It's the reason why trying to conform our presentation to the mirage of a unified multiverse will always end in buttache and fire.

'''6) Merging articles for a retcon's sake gives priority to that retcon.'''

No matter how diligent we are about disclaimers throughout a merged article, the fact that readers are presented with all the guys on one page tells them that ''primarily'' they're the same character. I don't think this is merited if the connection isn't supported in all cases. Let's use a new example: [[Alpha Trion (disambiguation)|Alpha Trion]]. He's had many incarnations, always as an elderly sage, sometimes with mystical overtones, but with no specific uniqueness other than being super old. In fact, he even got an [[Alpha Trion (SG)|evil incarnation]] like lots of other ordinary characters. But now the [[Transformers: Prime|''Prime'' universe]] has a version that seems to be a singularity. If we merged them all because of this, then that would override the primary nature of the pre-''Prime'' A3s as individuals in their native contexts. This is what I've been referring to in the debate as "series integrity," per point #2. So instead...

'''7) Links can serve instead of mergers to document a multiversal connection.'''

This seems obvious to me, but since some people seem to think that multiversal claims necessitate mergers for some reason, I figured I'd say it. In the Alpha Trion example, my answer is to link all of the pre-''Prime'' A3s to the ''Prime'' one, and have the ''Prime'' one link out to all the rest (or just the disambig page). Then we could let the tone of each article to reflect the degree or absence of connection appropriate to its source material.

So let's bring this all together into a simple rule...

'''THEREFORE: If a cross-continuity claim goes both ways, then the pages should be merged. If it's one-sided, then they should be separate but linked.'''

For an example of "going both ways," we can look at Sideways again: When the ''Almanac'' used the character, his dimension-hopping had already been established. So saying that he stopped off in the ''Animated'' universe was barely a retcon at all; it just added a stamp to his passport. I think that calls for a merger with the "(RID)" article. But because the movieverse presents its Sideways as an independent character, he deserves his own page with his own intro, mainpic, toy section, etc., no matter how strongly the ''Animated'' universe may claim him. We should certainly LINK the two, but again, with the prominence it merits within each context. If we decided the ''Almanac'' wording was watertight, then we would make the link on the ''Animated'' page fairly in-your-face, something in the intro, bold, blink-tagged, with a trumpet MIDI. But the movieverse page should have a quieter link, maybe down in "Notes"/"Trivia".

Oh, and '''COROLLARY: If there's ever any uncertainty about whether a situation counts as "both ways," we should default to linked separation, per #1.'''

So that's where I'm coming from. I used the Sideways and A3 examples because they made handy illustrations, and I don't mean to represent all the nuances of their own debates. The point was to give practical examples of how my principles can be applied to ALL singularities and dimension-hoppers. The more Hasbro gets into the multiverse business, the more we're going to have to deal with this shit, and I think this is a solid guide that will help prevent future battles if we can agree to it. Of course I'm open to suggestions - I don't mean to say that This Is My Conviction or whatever - but nothing else I've seen so far makes as much sense to me. Agree/disagree? Discuss!

- [[User:Jackpot|Jackpot]] 21:20, 7 July 2010 (EDT)
:I'm sorry, that was a bit TL;DR. Is this a blog now? -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 23:11, 7 July 2010 (EDT)
::<nowiki>*</nowiki>eyeroll* I hate "Too long, too lazy ass to read" butthurt. Look, are you over the age of 10? If so, it's not going to kill you to be expected to use your brain and read more than a few sentences, especially when someone's rightfully trying to explain their reasoning behind what would be a major change in how we do things. Suck it up. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 23:39, 7 July 2010 (EDT)
:::I'm sorry I don't have the time to read all day about fucking toys. If you would like to pay for my food, rent, clothes and internet FOR me, then I'd be more than willing to read a novella on retcons. Until then, stop insulting me. -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 01:26, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::Guess what? If you don't have the time to read and pay attention to a conversation, then here's a thought: don't participate in it. Wow, what a crazy thought. There's the door over there.
::::As for the insulting, pot, kettle, black. You insulted the post, I insulted your lazy whining. Don't dish it out if you can't take it. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 01:48, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::What's your damn problem? Who died and made you the lord and master here? "There's the door?" Why the hell does this have to turn into ad-hominem assaults? All I said was that the post was long. I honestly don't see why you would flip your shit over that. -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 01:58, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::You came in here and insulted the post by wondering when the wiki turned into a blog, instead of actually contributing something useful, so please stop acting like you have the high ground.
::::::For two, like I said, if you don't have time to participate, then instead of wasting your time and ours making a pointless whiny insulting complaint about OMG someone daring to expect you to read more than a few sentences, why not just... not post? I mean, dur. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 02:08, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::Oh, I'm ''sorry!'' I didn't realize that I should have given time to some blowhard telling us how we should completely throw out how we've done things from day one '''BECAUSE HE SAID SO'''! My sincerest apologies! -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 02:26, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::::Hey, here's a thought. Both of you knock it off or there's some timeouts coming. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 02:29, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

::I kind of like it. It helps as a sort of guide on the whole MC-classifying thing. --[[User:Lonegamer78|Lonegamer78]] 23:22, 7 July 2010 (EDT)
:::Yeah, me too, it makes an incredible amount of sense. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 23:39, 7 July 2010 (EDT)
::::I like the logic; it's clear and concise. However, I don't agree with it. If you take this idea to its logical conclusion, it means that we basically, more or less, ignore all retcons. Or, at the very least, it means that we need duplicative pages. For instance, The Nemesis wasn't named in the G1 cartoon. Its name came from Beast Wars. To really follow your thought process, merging the Nemesis, the ship named in Beast Wars, with the unnamed Decepticon cruiser introduced in a different series, would be 'giving priority to that retcon.' I think it's far more interesting, useful and informative to have those concepts as the same article, rather than splitting them. I'll also point out that the Ark was never named in the Sunbow cartoon, so we'd have to split that from the Marvel Comics. There are undoubtedly a ton of other examples like this.
::::(It's possible that you meant for your point four to apply exclusively to cross continuity-family mergers and retcons. You don't say this, but even if you meant it, in my mind that's a false distinction. Cross series is cross series, be it G1 to G1, G1 to RID, Animated to Movie or whatever.)--[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 00:33, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::I think it's far more interesting, useful, and informative to be ''accurate''. IMHO we should be making our arguments based on what presents the information in the most accurate and least fan speculation/assuming way, not based on how tidy or convenient it is or isn't. IMHO we should bend to fit the information, not bend the information to fit us. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 00:44, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::That's a complete strawman argument. It's not ''inaccurate'' to retroactively apply the name The Ark to the ship from the Sunbow cartoon. It's a choice of two different organizational schemas, both of which have pros and cons. When dealing with organizational issues, tidy and convenient ''are'' valid goals.--[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 01:01, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::It's potentially inaccurate whenever it forces us to make a completely fanon decision that one bit of information is "more canon" than another bit, instead of treating all info as equally canon. See Jackpot's point #6. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 01:25, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::::It's ''actually'' inaccurate to refuse to user our judgment to merge two effectively identical concepts, such as The Ark (Marvel comics) and Unnamed Autobot ship (Sunbow), just because one was named and one wasn't. It's a completely "fanon" decision to decide that they're two different ideas, just as it's a completely "fanon" decision to decide that they're the same idea. Being unwilling to commit to a position is itself a position, and not a very useful, informative, or interesting one. --[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 01:52, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::Being unwilling to commit to a position when there is no solid information to go on is the honest and accurate position. It's our job to catalog canon, period, not our fanon theories. (Basically, it's less fanon to assume they're different than it is to assume they're the same without solid canon proof.)
:::::::::It's useful and informative to present canon as-is. People come here to learn what canon says, not to read our fanon theories on things. (As for interesting, I think it's more interesting to read about TF fiction and what the creators intended, personally, rather than read people's fanon theories.) --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 02:00, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::I'm not sure you know what fanon means, based on your usage of it here. No one here is seriously advocating just making things up and hurling them around willy-nilly. But when you have two positions, both of which have evidence, choosing one over the other is not fanon. Fanon is saying "Dion is Ultra Magnus" and then linking those pages. Interpreting canon is saying "Oh, there is an Decepticon spaceship in Beast Wars named The Nemesis, and an EXTREMELY similar ship in the Sunbow cartoon with the same backstory... let's treat them as the same thing." Interpreting canon != fanon. --[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 02:35, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::Bluntly, there's also a point where it's "come the fuck on" and not making the link is either pussyfooting or bullheadedness, and both lead to a disorganized, unfriendly mess of a wiki with a million scattered pages for the same concepts. Plus it's rather insulting to one's intelligence after a point. I don't have "solid" proof the sun will rise tomorrow, but you know, if I were to place a bet... --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 02:41, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::I agree with a some of it but if it's not a "consistent Multiverse" then what is the point of having one? That would essentially make the Thirteen and so on less then Multiversal even though they have been stated canonically to exist in such a manner. [[User:MrBlud|MrBlud]] 04:02, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::::Yeah, the logic is good in a lot of ways, I don't deny that, but Jim and MrBlud raise very good objections as well. As Blud said, it's not really the "multiverse" if it doesn't contain everything. That's what the multiverse IS. Thats entirely what it means, and downplaying that this much feels like our chooseing to really diminis the whole concept. Even more worying, Like Jim says, it IS just as subjective to group things together as to seperate them. It's just a difference of interpretation. If you set the bar so high for seperating everything though it's a very destructive rule. In our continuity article we talk about how assuming anything is in continuity with anything else even within a singular series IS really just an assumpion. The approach to continuity we have been using is a constructive one (Continuities and future material can build on one another. Alla G1 and BW). To switch to an entirely devisive model opens both issues of revamping lots of pages but also destroying many comon sense connections such as those Jim mentions in an overzelous OCD nead to keep everything from touching. It's not unworkable but as an idea it has very worring potential and at least as much room for abuse and stupidity as our current constructive format.--[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 08:29, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::::::::Agreed, the basic premise is valid but there are problems with applying without reservation. Jim, in particular, raises the quite valid point that if we truly follow this, then we really need to split off a couple thousand pages. The thing to remember is at some point you're doing more harm than good by keeping things separate. Have your examples reached that point, I don't know. But I want to leave the possibility open to combine them if evidence keeps piling up in favor of it. --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 08:33, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::::::::::Links can be used instead of mergers / same-naming for ''highly contested cases'', like the recent Sideways flap. But as Jim noted, arguing that the Sunbow ship ISN'T the Ark just seems like an exercise in deliberate obtuseness that inhibits the clarity and usefulness of this wiki. There is a TON of canon evidence that it's the Ark, from the Ultimate Guide to Beast Wars to the Titanium toy. In an instance where a retcon does not actually OPPOSE pre-existing information in the retconned storyline--because there was none--I cannot think of any valid reason to exclude it. I can see debating an oppositional retcon, like Primus vs. Unicron; however, that particular one has been well established foundationally for so many years that, again, trying to split it out now would only get in the way of conveying any facts at all. As long as we sufficiently annotate all such material instead of trying to seamlessly pass it off as perfect revealed in-universe truth, I see no problem with it. I '''HATE''' the concept of the Vok being the Swarm, it adds nothing to the series except some pretty agonizing internal contradictions that were totally, totally unnecessary. But there it is. So--we mention it, we discuss and/or annotate the potential problems, and that's that. As long as readers can be made fully aware of any controversy that has actual ''impact'' on the storylines, we are in the clear and our approach "works". --[[User:Thylacine 2000|Thylacine 2000]] 10:43, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::Jackpot's guide is how I view the multiverse, I also don't think it is a two-way street. I think the Nemesis situation is different. The ship played the same general role in the comic and cartoon, so it is appropriate to be on the same page—just like cartoon Megatron and comic Megatron. Beast Wars doesn't say the ship crossed from the cartoon to the comic or anything. But we could make it more clear. On the ''Nemesis'' page there should be clear notes, preferably at the top of both the cartoon and Marvel comics sections, stating that the ship had no name in those continuities and was named later. There currently isn't such a note. I would also prefer the name ''Nemesis'' wasn't used in the cartoon and Marvel comics fiction sections, but that isn't a big deal. Well done Jackpot. - [[User:Starfield|Starfield]] 10:53, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::I have a minor quibble with #2. [[Bendy-Bus Prime]] is a Transformer, but I believe he is all Paramount and no Hasbro. Is he canon? Maybe he isn't, I don't know. - [[User:Starfield|Starfield]] 10:53, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

OK, it looks like, after a bit of back and forth, most of the users see the inherent problems with the proposal. As I implied, it actually has a certain intellectual appeal, I just think that in ''application'' it would do us more harm than good. I think the current system is clear maybe 99% of the time, and occasionally leads to arguments on corner cases. My instinct is that the proposed change would be clear maybe 80% to 90% of the time.

My suggestion is to take a very small multiuniversal franchise and then sandbox it up. Robot Masters has only 49 pages, including 34 characters, a few pieces of fiction and some other notions introduced. If you (any of the proponents) are really seriously considering having us rework several thousand pages and having probably a lot more arguments, I think that sandboxing out 49 pages first to see how they'd work isn't unreasonable.--[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 11:02, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:"''As I implied, it actually has a certain intellectual appeal, I just think that in ''application'' it would do us more harm than good. I think the current system is clear maybe 99% of the time, and occasionally leads to arguments on corner cases. My instinct is that the proposed change would be clear maybe 80% to 90% of the time.''" 
::Personally, I think your "99%" estimate is off. It's more like 99.999999999%. So basically, just like '''every other time ever''' someone has proposed a massive organizational change to the wiki in order to try and account for a single instance of something the current system can't handle (something every system possible will have), we're looking at more harm and work for a "payoff" that isn't remotely worth the effort, one that will obfuscate information and make the wiki on an already-complex and expansive subject even less readable. I'm deja-vu'ing here bigtime. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 11:26, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:Seems to me like we're actually pretty evenly split on people who think it's a good idea, people who don't, and people who see the logic but also see some issues to iron out, but OK. But I agree that sandboxing is probably a good idea.
:As for Sipher's point, the problem is, as the thing with SG Alpha Trion shows, Hasbro doesn't care about cohesion the way we do, and it might well start becoming more and more of a problem in the future considering the directions Hasbro's been taking.
:The simple fact is that, in real-world terms, there ''isn't'' a consistent universe. There's HOW many storylines going on at the same time at the moment, on varying schedules and with varying teams on how many different parts of the planet? Considering companies like IDW can barely even keep their *own* writers matching up with each other... even if Hasbro really did want to make sure everything 100% matched up with everything else, I'm not sure they actually could pull it off with the current setup.
:Plus, on top of that, Hasbro obviously just throws things together because they like how it looks together, not because it actually works at all with previous canon. And as Hasbro starts doing more of this cross-continuity stuff, the problem's just going to get worse and worse.
:The more we try to stick to our conceit while Hasbro's busy tying things in knots, the more ridiculous our gymnastics to keep it all straight are going to get. I've already wanted to cringe at some of the gymnastics I've seen on Trion alone. (Like the notion that somehow Lee knew when creating a character three years ago from a toy with a vague bio, that Animated would get cancelled and we'd have an entirely new show that needed a new origin story novel. Or something.) And the discussion on Sentinel Major and Sideways shows how much a clusterfuck it can get when we're busy trying to combine things based on whose fan speculation makes more sense than whose, rather than going by solely the actual canon and authors.
:I think we tend to give Hasbro much more credit in planning all this stuff out than they've ever shown, well, ever. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 11:51, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::"''the problem is, as the thing with SG Alpha Trion shows, Hasbro doesn't care about cohesion the way we do,''" 
::I'm just going to say that I know for a fact this is patently untrue, and the whole story is not yet told. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 16:03, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::Yeah, I don't know what Sipher knows, or anything, but I find it ''very'' hard to believe that the internal Hasbro dude who has basically been responsible for the whole singularity/thirteen thing, being the same guy who wrote the bios that indicated Alpha Trion was one of the thirteen before Exodus confirmed it, wrote a story about Trion being evil ''without'' having some greater plan or rationale in mind. - [[User:Chris McFeely|Chris McFeely]] 16:07, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::Exactly. The reason MS Alpha Trion seems so messed up right now is because we know zilch about the details of the concept. Correct me if I'm wrong, but all we're going on is one slide at BotCon with his name on a list of confirmed Thirteen. ''Clearly'', there's going to be more to it than that...we just haven't been told yet. There's a difference between "Hasbro doesn't care" and "Hasbro's teaser preview doesn't explain the entire concept to our satisfiction." --[[User:Xaaron|Xaaron]] 16:33, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::It wasn't just a slide, it was repeatedly throughout ''Exodus''. --Thy
::::::If cleaning up Alpha Trion involves retcons that supersede previous continuities, then that is just the sort of thing the wiki shouldn't take a stance on. Is the original continuity true as presented, or is the new retcon true? - [[User:Starfield|Starfield]] 16:45, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::Our stance has always been "What Hasbro says goes. If they retcon something than that's their right as its their story, they determine official continuity, and the retcon is now whats true." Changing that would mean changing perhasp hundreds or thousands of articles at this point I'd guess, but that's what this discussion is all about. As long as we tell people that the retcon is a retcon and tell them all the facts of the original story and the new, then we're doing our job. Anyway, back on the point at hand, Exodus had a lot of other priorities. The Thirteen revelations in there were basically treated as background stuff and were far from the focus, teasers really for Hasbro's new plan for the characters announced at Botcon. The point stands that you can't call it proof of Hasbro not caring when they've barely gotten the first sentence of their story out of their mouth yet. Be patient and Lee will almost certainly deal with it as he set it all up. --[[User:ZacWilliam|ZacWilliam]] 16:56, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::::I admit that I read the novel immediately ''before'' BotCon (like, I bought it on the drive to Florida and read it at breaks and while waiting for car repairs), so there's a chance that I didn't have time to properly retain everything about it before more new info pushed it out of my brain... but Zac is right. The 13 were barely backstory, and the multiverse was not even touched. We're only a month into what may be Hasbro's biggest venture into entertainment ever (on their part, at least), and we've only been given tiny teasers to the main part of it! 
::::::::(Also... it isn't just Lee working this stuff out. Remember the show crew, and Aaron...) --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 17:34, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::"Changing that would mean changing perhasp hundreds or thousands of articles at this point I'd guess, but that's what this discussion is all about."
:::::::::Possibly. But the problem is, the more Hasbro throws stuff together because it seems cool and then just does after the fact cobbled-together retcons, the more we're going to have to change our pages. We've already had to merge a number of pages, and we already have arguments on the talk pages about how it utterly blatantly goes against what was explicitly shown in the official direct canon fiction, thus creating new errors by merging things never meant to be merged or changed.
:::::::::This new proposal is so that the wiki doesn't become even more entangled and insane in the future, messing up the info in old series with things never meant to be in them and things never meant to be connected ''by the direct official fiction in that continuity''.
:::::::::Plus, as was pointed out up above, Hasbro's stance is that all Optimus Primes are the same, all Megatrons are the same, etc. So we already go against Hasbro's stance for the sake of presenting the fiction as-is. If we really were going by how Hasbro did/sees things, our pages would all be set up exactly like Wikipedia's.
:::::::::Which is my whole worry, really. I ''like'' our current setup. I ''like'' the fact that we separate things out. To me, #3 and #6 are vitally important here. A bit of writing is written as having certain details, certain backstories, etc. in mind. If you later add things in, you change the story.
:::::::::And, I mean, it's bad enough that even the people directly writing in a given continuity often change things around even when it makes no sense, or forget that previous things happened, without us deciding that people in completely separate writing teams writing completely different storylines can somehow keep track of everyone else's work on top of their own.
:::::::::And Hasbro sure doesn't seem to be keeping track. IDW's main continuity is a mess. Hasbro went to all the trouble of trying to keep Mowry's comics canon... and then the Movie writers went and contradicted it anyway. I've seen plenty of arguments how WFC and Exodus contradict each other, yet are supposed to go together. Hasbro came out at BotCon and had to admit they goofed on the Sentinel/Zeta Prime thing. Pete had to basically declare the Movieverse outside of the multiverse to acknowledge that the Movie people don't know/care what the Fanclub was doing. Etc. Etc.
:::::::::This "plan" you guys seem to think exist? Either doesn't exist, or is utterly contradictory with itself, or is being incredibly poorly maintained. I see no reason so far whatsoever to think that Hasbro's left-hand writing team knows what the right-hand is doing.
:::::::::Which I could live with, if we didn't keep trying to merge things never meant to be merged, change things never meant to be changed, etc. due to info given by people who aren't even directly involved with/in what they're changing, on an assumption of coordination between the fiction that has not been shown to exist.
:::::::::To me, what's canon for a storyline is what is being officially marketed to me as taking place in that storyline, and occasionally the word from the people directly writing that storyline. Because nothing else makes sense to me. Just because you write officially for one storyline doesn't mean you know a thing about other storylines being written by other writing teams. And the fact that there are so many existing, undeniable contradictions between the various writing teams and storylines sure suggests to me that it's not being coordinated by Hasbro either. Not on the level some people seem to be thinking/wishing for. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 20:28, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::::Addendum: Plus, the more tangled this gets, the harder it's going to be for ''me'' to edit the wiki at least. If I can't even trust the directly-related show/comic/prose story in front of me to be true about its own storyline, thanks to some publication in some other completely unrelated fiction I otherwise would have no interest in reading... well, I sure can't edit the wiki any more. Because now I have no way to ensure I'm not wasting time scribing info that's apparently not even accurate even though it's right blatantly there in front of me. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 20:39, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
::::::::::How often is that true of a retcon though? Most (if not all) of the Transformers ones *add* to the story not detract from it. Even the whole Sideways brouhaha was giving Sideways a larger article. ROTF Sideway's depiction was still true and still happened even if it was "other" Sideways playing the role. In addition, outside of universe jumping or multiversal singularities (both of which are reasonably rare) there's hardly any overlap anyway. [[User:MrBlud|MrBlud]] 21:10, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

== TFsource ad buy ==

TFsource contacted me, having seen our perennial Reprolabels ad up above and wanting in on a piece of the action, wanting to permanently buy one of our other ad spots. The question I have is, would/should we restrict them from ads depicting "third-party" toys and bootlegs? Perhaps this is the ghost of BotCon hovering over me, since their Wall Of Trademark And Copyright Theft Directly Facing the Hasbro Booth is prominent in my mind, and I know a few of the editors here expressed some displeasure with that. Is that a big deal for anyone, does anyone care in this context, or should I be all "ABSOLUTELY!" and then we make a deal and rake in the dough? Can we even judge, since we have, you know, all of this scanned material and whatnot? These are the questions I present. Tell me how much they matter. --[[User:ItsWalky|ItsWalky]] 14:24, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

:All else being equal I'd prefer to avoid it, unless we're desperate for cash. We know some Hasbro staff look at this wiki and they've been clear in how much that stuff bugs them. Also, the more our pageviews include imagery of Fake Magnus Armor and Fake Springer and Fake Rod et al., the more we're going to have to deal with new arrivals who feel that's all kosher for inclusion in the main articles. If it's possible to get a TFSource ad that will never display a bootleg, then I'd have no problem with it. --[[User:Thylacine 2000|Thylacine 2000]] 14:36, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

::Seems like a reasonable restriction for us to make to me. My take on our scans is that one, we generally err on the side of fair use in not uploading entire pages and making sure we credit the hell out of things, and two, they're not a 100% vital part of the wiki anyway--if Hasbro told us to take every scan down tomorrow we could comply and still have a perfectly usable (just a less visually exciting) wiki. 
::That's kind of different from openly advertising toys that totally violate Hasbro's copyright, though. Even aside from the legal tangles (which is no small aside, certainly), while I know we are in that murky grey area in some things, we ''have'' always tried to play as fair as we can with Hasbro in how we operate. --[[User:Jeysie|Jeysie]] 14:40, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

:::I agree, no knockoffs in our ads if we can help it.--[[User:Jimsorenson|Jimsorenson]] 14:44, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

::::Ditto on no knockoffs in the ads. --[[User:Lonegamer78|Lonegamer78]] 14:59, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::ALL ABOARD THE DITTO ASTROTRAIN --[[User:-Blackout-|-Blackout-]] 15:07, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::N-O on the K-Os. --[[User:Khajidha|Khajidha]] 15:12, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

::Yeah, if TFSource can give us ad without IP infringing product, I say let em in. --[[User:M Sipher|M Sipher]] 15:17, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

:::Yikes, I'm looking at the side banner right now and it's full of IP infringing products. The one I see has Knight Morpher Commander, Crossfire Munition and Explorer and Warbot Defender. The only ACTUAL Transformers product in there is Masterpiece Ghost Starscream. I think it would be bad form to keep ads like that on the site. -- [[User:Semysane|Semysane]] 18:19, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

::::Ads without IP infringing material would be fine with me. [[User:MrBlud|MrBlud]] 18:56, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::Ugh. When they were allowed to buy the ad space, did they promise no knock-offs? - [[User:Cattleprod|Cattleprod]] 23:12, 7 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::Big NO on knockoffs, including third-party. --'''[[User:TX55|TX55]]'''''[[User talk:TX55|TALK]]'' 01:51, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

:::::::I am cool with them buying adspace IF they only advertise official Transformers products. --[[User:FFN|FFN]] 06:14, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

::::::::I say YES to having the Third party stuff on here. As you can see by the continuity discussion above Hasbro don't really give a damn about Transformers fiction the way we do. The third party stuff proves that those guys have passion that many in Hasbro do not. And "knock-offs" is a bit harsh, no? So in summary, screw Hasbro and yeah Fansproject! And let's be honest if the choice as to who controls Transformers came down to a two-way battle between Hasbro and TFWiki, who would you pick? [[User:Drmick|Drmick]] 10:44, 8 July 2010 (EDT)
:::::::::Drmick, we're talking '''''IP infringement''''' here and we occasionally have actual Hasbro folks peek in here time to time. I think I speak for the others in that none of us wants them knocking on the wiki's doors with some form of a C&D or something that'll restrict us (save certain circumstances). We've probably toed a couple lines somewhere more than several times, and I for one, do NOT want our relationship with Hasbro to be messed up. --[[User:Lonegamer78|Lonegamer78]] 12:22, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

== Simon Furman's IDW pitch ==

So here's a thing. The following text is Simon Furman's original pitch for Transformers comics when IDW took up the license, printed in the back of the "Best of Simon Furman" hardback collection. I skimmed this a few years back when the book was released and it passed under my nose at work, but since then, we've never had any of the info on the wiki, and I've never seen any discussion of it on any forums - presumably because none of us actually BOUGHT the dang thing, since we own all these stories in multiple formats already. I borrowed the book and transcribed the pitch so that anyone interested can read it, and we can maybe actually do something with the info. - [[User:Chris McFeely|Chris McFeely]] 11:01, 8 July 2010 (EDT)

TRANSFORMERS… A NEW DIRECTION

A Proposal For IDW

--Simon Furman--

In the (Armada/Energon) Cybertron timeline…

…UNICRON IS DESTROYED, utterly wiped out of existence by a seismic shock warhead detonated deep within its superstructure (events which would be visited retroactively in any subsequent ‘Energon’ conclusion issues).

But as one threat to Cybertron ends, another has only just begun. A rift in time and space – a massive ‘chronal’ black hole formed by the annihilation of Unicron – is threatening to suck Cybertron in, tear it apart in an internal maelstrom of deconstructed space and time. Only by anchoring the planet, via a spacebridge, to Earth’s energon core can Cybertron maintain its tenuous position, but it’s at best a quick fix. To seal the rift, they need the power of PRIMUS, the progenitor of the entire TRANSFORMERS race. But while a fragment of the dormant Primus lifeforce exists within Cybertron, the rest is lost, scattered throughout the universe, buried deep within strange, alien worlds.

Roused (from eons of chronal stasis in a dimension outside of normal space and time) by the impending cataclysm, the immortal sentinel known as Vector Prime spearheads the search for the Primus lifeforce, guiding Optimus Prime and his Autobots on a quest that will take them to aliens worlds in the farthest corners of the galaxy and beyond. But where Prime and the Autobots go… Megatron and the Decepticons are never far behind.

Clad in the armor of Unicron, fuelled by a fragment of his Spark, Megatron has become a true agent of chaos. He’s prepared to sacrifice Cybertron, Earth and any other world in order to contain and absorb the lifeforce of Primus himself, his ultimate aim to transform himself… into a living god!

And the ‘Cybertron’ timeline is not the only one to feel the effects of the destruction of Unicron. In fact… it’s one of the lucky ones.

<<In all the disparate timelines, all the myriad dimensions, there is but one Unicron. Though physical presence is limited to a single reality at any given time, it exists simultaneously in countless dimensions, shadows of its vast, ancient consciousness inextricably interwoven into the complex geometry of time and space. Its destruction in the Cybertron timeline creates ripples, which become shockwaves, which gather force, become a tidal wave of destruction. In some realities, the effect of the ‘chaos wave’ is total, instantaneous, entire timelines… wiped out. In others, the initial effect is less pronounced, a dramatic event heralding a slow descent into space/time anarchy.>>

In the G1 timeline…

…CYBERTRON IS DESTROYED! The resident Autobots and Decepticons barely have time to evacuate the planet, to eject the core of the planet and it’s precious Vector Sigma cargo (an eventuality made feasible way back when [in The War Within v3]) before the planet is torn apart, smashed into component molecules by the roiling chaos wave. Many Cybertronians don’t make it at all, and are simply wiped out. In a shockingly short time, Cybertron is gone. Forever.

Shocked, stunned, bereft of their homeworld, the remaining populous finds itself spread far and wide throughout the galaxy, seeking (in the Autobots’ case) safe harbor or (in the Decepticons’ case) new worlds to conquer… and colonise. Megatron’s Decepticons have perfecting ‘mechaforming’ technology, invasive, self-replicating machinery designed to restructure the entire geological substructure of a planet, in effect turn it into a new Cybertron. And since the Decepticons are indifferent to the presence or fate of any indigenous civilizations on the planet(s) of choice, it’s down to the Autobots to stop them… at any cost.

Earth, always a pivotal world in the G1 timeline, becomes even more of a focal battleground. Its natural resources are a potent brew that – with the right exploitation and manipulation – can be turned into energon, the lifeblood of the Transformer race. In Decepticon hands the whole world would be turned into a vast refinery, bled dry to fuel the creation of the ‘new’ Cybertron.

And Optimus Prime has an even more pressing concern. Contacted by Vector Prime (who can move within all remaining TF timelines), he is warned that the omniversal geometry is critically out of alignment. The removal of – for want of a better word – ‘evil’ has disturbed an age-old natural balance. Though it goes against every Autobot credo, they must somehow resurrect the dark force known, among other things, as Unicron! The key is the so-called ‘Decepticon Matrix’, a quasi-mythical power source spread throughout the galaxy. Said to be fragments of Unicron itself, released in some apocalyptic confrontation with Primus before the dawn of time, its retrieval and coalescence could restore the balance and dissipate the chaos wave.

Reluctantly, with grave reservations (and considerable dissent in the Autobot ranks) Prime forges an uneasy alliance with two of Unicron’s heralds, Cylonus and Scourge, both of whom are dedicated to the rebirth of their master (for different reasons). But, unknown to Prime, they have a secondary agenda, a plan to use a fragment of the Decepticon Matrix to destroy Megatron… and recreate him as the unstoppable force known as Galvatron!

<<And so, in one timeline, the Autobots seek to make Primus whole once more, while in another, they seek to resurrect the spirit of Unicron, leading ultimately to the new, universe-shaking confrontation between the two ancient forces… one that will (briefly) unite all remaining TRANSFORMERS timelines and continuities in an epic battle for survival.>>

CYBERTRON #0 (AND ONGOING)/G1 #0 (AND ONGOING)

Amidst the larger framework of the ‘chaos wave’ saga, the ongoing thrust of Cybertron is a focused series of one or two-part (largely self-contained, featuring different character assortments) adventures set on Cybertron, Earth and the key planets (Speed, Beast and Giant) that support its core quest… the search for the lifeforce of Primus. At every turn, the Autobots are confounded and frustrated by the Decepticons, but in the process forge new alliances and friendships, both on Earth and beyond. It’s a race against time… with the fate of Cybertron (and more) hanging in the balance.

The G1 title expands the scope and reach of the line, exploring wider character/conflict story arcs (while pulling in much more fan-friendly past and future continuity) and dramatically shaking the whole TRANSFORMERS mythos to its core, streamlining and redefining the sometimes confusing mass of ‘alternate’ timelines. But as with Cybertron, the focus will shift to different groups of Autobots/Decepticons on different worlds, faced with differing agendas and challenges.

The issue #0s will be mirror-images of each other, both told from the perspective of Vector Prime as he awakens to an omniverse in chaos, threatened on all fronts. His narrative will serve to encapsulate what has gone before while his actions introduce the primary cast and lay the groundwork for what is to come.