MediaWiki - User contributions [en]

Peter Cullen

2011-12-24T21:40:01Z

Pcnkgcdk:

{{disambig3|Peter}}
{{factions|hofgold}}
[[Image:PeterCullen1.jpg|right|216px|thumb|Scarier than Venger and the [[Predator (alien)|Predator]] combined.]]
'''Peter Cullen''' (born [[July 28]], [[1941]]) is a [[Canada|Canadian]] voice actor who has earned fame, respect and admiration as the voice of [[Optimus Prime (G1)|the original Optimus Prime]].

In addition to Transformers, some of Cullen's other roles include Eeyore from ''[[Jim Cummings|Winnie the Pooh]]'', Venger from ''Dungeons & Dragons'', Bankjob Beagle from ''Ducktales'', Cindarr from ''[[Visionaries]]'', Zandar and [[Nemesis Enforcer]] from ''[[G.I. Joe (franchise)|G.I. Joe]]'', K.A.R.R. from ''Knight Rider'', the Narrator from ''Voltron'', and the title villain from ''[[Predator (alien)|Predator]]''. He has also recently done announcer work for commercials for the U.S. Navy, temporarily taking over the job from [[Keith David]].

==Roles==
===Generation 1===
*[[Frankenstein's monster]] (episode 17)
*[[Halo]] (episode 16)
*[[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]]
*[[It]] (episode 95)
*[[Nightstick (Cyclonus)|Nightstick]]
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]
*[[Optimus Prime clone|Clone]] (episode 27)
*[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]]
*[[Streetwise (G1)|Streetwise]]
*[[Wingspan]]

===[[Transformers (2007)|''Transformers'' (2007 movie)]]===
*[[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]]

===[[Transformers The Game|''Transformers'': The Game]]===
*[[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]]

===''[[Transformers: Beginnings]]''===
*[[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]]

===''[[Revenge of the Fallen (film)|Revenge of the Fallen]]''===
*[[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]]

===[[Revenge of the Fallen (video games)|''Revenge of the Fallen'': The Game]]===
*[[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]]

===''[[Transformers: War for Cybertron (franchise)|Transformers: War for Cybertron]]''===
*[[Optimus Prime (Prime)|Optimus Prime]]

===''[[Transformers: Prime (cartoon)|Transformers: Prime]]''===
*[[Optimus Prime (Prime)|Optimus Prime]]

===''[[Dark of the Moon (film)|Dark of the Moon]]''===
*[[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]]

===[[Dark of the Moon (video games)|''Dark of the Moon'': The Game]]===
*[[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]]

===[[Transformers: The Ride]]===
*[[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]]

===''[[Transformers: Rescue Bots]]''===
*[[Optimus Prime (Prime)|Optimus Prime]]

===''[[Transformers: Fall of Cybertron (360/PS3)|Transformers: Fall of Cybertron]]''===
*[[Optimus Prime (Prime)|Optimus Prime]]

==Written works==
* ''[[Transformers Vault]]'' (foreword)

==Notes==
* In [[1984]], Cullen created the voice of [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] by emulating the mannerisms of his older brother Larry, who had served in the [[United States Marine Corps]] in the Vietnam War. Specifically, he based Prime's voice and mannerisms upon Larry's calm, controlled and authoritative approach to serious situations.<ref>[http://blogs.usatoday.com/popcandy/2006/09/a_chat_with_pet.html USA Today's chat with Peter Cullen, September 28, 2006]</ref> The ''[[Transformers: Prime (cartoon)|Transformers: Prime]]'' episode "[[Partners]]" was dedicated to his late brother's memory.

* Yes, Optimus Prime is his favorite voice acting role, although he also loves being [[Wikipedia:Eeyore|Eeyore]].

* At [[BotCon 2007]], Peter Cullen said he'd love to own one of the three modified [http://www.peterbilt.com/index_gal_mod_desc.asp?model=model379 Peterbilt 379] trucks used in the filming of [[Transformers (2007)|''Transformers'']]. Let's try and picture Optimus Prime driving himself for a moment. Has your brain exploded yet from the sheer awesomeness?

[[Image:Movieop voyager driver.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Now all it needs is a mustache.]]
* The mid-range [[Optimus Prime (Movie)/toys#Voyager Class toys|Voyager class ''Movie'' Optimus Prime toy (in its many releases)]] features a non-removable cowboy-hat-bedecked driver figurine that flips out of the seat when the driver's side door is closed. This appears to be based on Peter Cullen himself. Awesome.

* In [[Alliance issue 1]], Optimus Prime creates a holo-driver for himself in the [[:Image:AllianceOptimusHoloDriver.jpg|likeness of Cullen]]. Epps thought it was perfect. Odds are, so would most of the [[fandom]].

* He was also the [[Toonami]] announcer (or as [[Steve Blum|TOM]] called him: "The Big Guy") for many years, allowing him to narrate commercials for ''[[Armada (cartoon)|Armada]]'', ''[[Energon (cartoon)|Energon]]'' and ''[[Cybertron (cartoon)|Cybertron]]''. Later, he narrated commercials for ''[[Transformers Animated (cartoon)|Animated]]'', even though it wasn't on Toonami. Because he's Optimus Prime, that's why.

* Peter was asked to reprise Optimus Prime in an episode of ''Robot Chicken'', where the character would enact a dramatization that he's dying from prostate cancer. He turned down the offer as he took the role too seriously to make fun of it, which the Adult Swim people respected him for.

*Cullen also provided the voice of the [[Renegade]] [[GoBots (franchise)|GoBots]] Pincher, Spoiler, Tank and Block Head in the '''Challenge Of The GoBots''' animated series.

* In the [[1976]] remake of [[King Kong]], he had an uncredited role voicing the great ape. Cullen injured his throat and coughed blood after a recording session that took five to six hours.<ref>[http://www.ugo.com/ugo/html/article/?id=17378 Peter Cullen, Transformers Interview]</ref> We could throw in another joke about [[Trukk not munky]] on this subject, but really, that would be redundant at this point.

* Cullen's voice is unmodified and wholly his own in his role as ''Prime's'' Optimus Prime.

* If you include season 5 of g1, G2 rebroadcast, and he movie prequel flash cartoon he voiced Optimus in more episodes then the other actors.

==Convention appearances==
* [[BotCon]] ([[BotCon 1997|1997]], [[BotCon 2006|2006]], [[BotCon 2007|2007]], [[BotCon 2009|2009]], [[BotCon 2010|2010]], [[BotCon 2011|2011]])
* [[BotCon 2004]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[http://www.hasbro.com/transformers/en_US/play/details.cfm?R=3D1D7B52-19B9-F369-1081-07DF8C58072C:en_US Hall of Fame video]
*[http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0191520/ Peter Cullen at the Internet Movie Database]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Cullen, Peter}}
[[Category:Activision]]
[[Category:Convention guests]]
[[Category:DreamWorks]]
[[Category:English voice actors]]
[[Category:Hall of Fame]]
[[Category:Hasbro Studios]]
[[Category:Writers]]

The Transformers (cartoon)

2011-12-05T22:29:20Z

Pcnkgcdk:

{{disambig2|the cartoon series|other uses of ''The Transformers''|Transformers (disambiguation)}}

{{nav-G1|logo=TheTransformers_Logo.jpg}}

{{bigquote|...we feel '''action''' should be emphasized over''' plot'''—especially avoiding any complicated story lines—to ensure the success of this series with its intended viewers.|[[Bryce Malek]] and [[Dick Robbins]], ''Transformer''s story editors, [[Marvel Productions]] internal correspondence[http://tfarchive.com/cartoons/bible/#154]}}

[[Image:TransformersLogoSlantedOrange.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Red is the color of GOOD...]]
[[Image:TransformersLogoSlantedPurple.jpg|right|250px|thumb|...while purple is the color of EVIL!!]]
[[Image:G1Season1Logo.jpg|right|250px|thumb|In space, no one can hear your trumpets go Dah-NUN NUN NUN NAHHHHHH!]]

More than any other of the many media which [[Transformer]]s have invaded in the past 25 years, it is '''''The Transformers''''', the original cartoon that ran from 1984 to 1987, which captured the imagination of children and young people-at-heart worldwide.

==Overview==
[[Image:Cybertronplanet.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Depleted of energy... aside from the power source that lights up the entire core of the planet.]]
The cartoon (along with the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel comics]]) set up the basic story of Transformers that most other incarnations were to follow: two warring factions of robots on the planet [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] leave in search of resources. The factions crash-land on [[Earth]] and, millions of years later, begin their battle anew in Reagan-era [[United States|America]] and across the globe.

Once established, the cartoon rarely took any steps to upset its status quo. Plots generally centered on a [[Decepticon]] plot or invention of the week, which would be used to gather energy or Defeat The [[Autobot]]s FOREVER!!, and the Autobots' efforts to stop the plan. Most of the time the Decepticons were forced into retreat, and the Autobots drove off victorious. At most, a new character or team was added to one side or the other. Plots became a bit less formulaic during Season 3, though character death and true plot upheaval remained a rarity.

Through its 98-episode run, this series took viewers around the globe and to many strange places and times: across the alien Cybertron, the Earth's prehistoric past, the Earth's then-future of 2005, the ''Metropolis''-like society of [[Nebulos]], and more. It is not the best animated series ever to air, but it stimulated viewers with its concept at the time, and continued to do so in the years to come.
{{-}}

==Production==
[[Image:DivideAndConquer-UnderseaBase.jpg|center|450px|thumb|The Decepticon undersea base. Note that it is neither [[Tom Kenny|pineapple]], [[Bill Fagerbakke|rock]], nor tiki head.]]

Writing and distribution for this series were handled as a joint effort by [[Marvel Productions]] and [[Sunbow Productions]]. Animation was produced overseas, by [[Toei]], [[AKOM]], [[Tokyo Movie Shinsha]] (''supposedly'') and an [[Unknown Filipino animation studio|unknown studio from the Philippines]].

[[Image:CrashedArk1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Nobody on Earth noticed this for millions of years.]]
The original 30 or so characters were heavily modified from their toy designs for aesthetics and ease of animation. Among the artists involved in the original designs are [[Shōhei Kohara]] and [[Floro Dery]]. Other known production artists include [[Dell Barras]], who worked on second season backgrounds.

Story editors for the series included [[Dick Robbins]], [[Bryce Malek]], [[Flint Dille]], [[Marv Wolfman]], and [[Steve Gerber]]. Episode scripts were written by a large array of freelance writers. Writers notable for writing numerous episodes include [[Donald F. Glut]] and [[David Wise]].

The series was animated on an enormously rushed schedule, due to the need to get episodes on the air in sync with the toys appearing on shelves. That, combined with the vast number of characters and the difficulties involved with the overseas animation process, resulted in a cartoon that is notoriously riddled with [[animation error]]s and other mistakes. The producers were often aware of these mistakes, but tight deadlines left them no time to correct them.

Another byproduct of the rushed production is that the show tends not to be very self-referential. Continuity between episodes is minimal, with most acting as self-contained, standalone stories, though a few Season Two and Season Three stories did build on previous episodes. Within each season, the addition of new characters is the only common change to the status quo.

[[Image:ShockwaveDesertionOfTheDinobots1.jpg|left|200px|thumb|My toy's so great, I bought one myself!]]
Mistakes or not, the show is fondly remembered by many fans for the high quality of its voice acting. Indeed, many characters, lacking any significant plot developments or screen time, were brought to life solely by their unique voices and inflection styles. Voice direction for the series was provided by [[Wally Burr]], notorious for driving his performers to the limit. One of the performers in his stable, [[Susan Blu]], would later go on to work as voice director for ''[[Beast Wars (cartoon)|Beast Wars]]'', ''[[Beast Machines (cartoon)|Beast Machines]]'', and ''[[Transformers Animated (cartoon)|Transformers Animated]]''.

The ''sinister'' voice of [[Victor Caroli]] provided narration for the entire series, most commonly heard on the [[commercial bumper]]s: "The Transformers will return after these messages!" Caroli's voice also provided occasional introductory narration, recap segments for multi-part episodes, and the ''[[Secret Files of Teletraan II]]'' segments which ran before the credits of Season 3.

[[Image:RollForIt Spacebridge recieves.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Looks safer than flying United.]]
In addition to the show's iconic [[theme song]], ''Transformers'' featured a great variety of background music, composed by [[Robert J. Walsh]]. Walsh had previously worked on the ''[[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]]'' cartoon, and many of those pieces were reused for ''Transformers''. New pieces were composed as well, many incorporating the melody of the show's theme song. Walsh composed new music for 2nd and 3rd seasons, each in a different style, further distinguishing the three main seasons from one another.

The show also originated the concept of the iconic "[[Scene transition|symbol flip]]" serving as a transition between scenes, a tradition carried on by some of the later series.
{{-}}

==Episodes==

{{see|List of Generation 1 episodes}}

These episodes are listed in "production order", the order in which the episodes were actually approved and written, rather than the order in which they aired on television. In a few instances, this means that episodes are not in the correct chronological story order, the specifics of which are noted in their own articles. Arranging the episodes in airdate order would not solve this problem, and so, as fans have done for as long as there have been ''Transformers'' episode guides on the internet, TFWIKI.Net adheres to production order, in preference to simply making up a chronological order of our own (any attempt at which would be arguable at best).

The different DVD companies which have released the series down the years have at times presented the episodes of each season in a different order that adheres to neither production nor airdate, sometimes to improve any chronology errors evident in the production order, and other times for no apparent reason. No two English-language DVD releases of the series by different companies have placed all 98 episodes in the same order. [[Metrodome]] stuck closest to production order, only making changes for chronology reasons (and sometimes not even then), while other licensees have strayed from this order to varying degrees. Season 1 has consistently avoided reorganization (as production order is actually the correct story order), but Season 3 is a victim of continuous restructuring that sees its episodes presented in a wildly different order with each release.

===Season 1===
[[Image:DinobotsG1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Remember those [[Dinobots | dinosaur guys]]? Man, they were awesome.]]
The first season is primarily set on [[Earth]], with a few excursions to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. It started with the 1984 toys as its characters, and introduced the early wave of 1985 toys as it progressed—the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]], [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]], [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]], and [[Jetfire (G1)|Skyfire]].

{{collist|2|
# "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]"
# "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 2]]"
# "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 3]]"
# "[[Transport to Oblivion]]"
# "[[Roll for It]]"
# "[[Divide and Conquer]]"
# "[[Fire in the Sky]]"
# "[[S.O.S. Dinobots]]"
# "[[Fire on the Mountain]]"
# "[[War of the Dinobots]]"
# "[[The Ultimate Doom, Part 1]]"
# "[[The Ultimate Doom, Part 2]]"
# "[[The Ultimate Doom, Part 3]]"
# "[[Countdown to Extinction (episode)|Countdown to Extinction]]"
# "[[A Plague of Insecticons]]"
# "[[Heavy Metal War]]"
}}

===Season 2===
[[Image:CosmicRust-BigGroup.jpg|center|450px|thumb|I liked the one with the guy.]] 
[[Image:Master builders prime basketball.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Didn't they make Optimus Prime play soccer or something once? Man, that was dumb.]]
The very long second season greatly expanded the cartoon's scope and cast. The second season tends to feature more character-driven episodes than the first season, with many characters getting their own "spotlight" episode. It also features a recurring theme of the Autobots assimilating Earth culture, such the Autobots playing basketball and football and even watching a soap opera. Excursions to alien civilizations popped up occasionally as well (not to mention time travel, miniaturization, and battles against undersea creatures). The second season also saw the introduction of concepts and characters that would spread out to other fictions, including the mystic [[Alpha Trion (G1)|Alpha Trion]], the ancient [[Vector Sigma]] supercomputer and its [[Key to Vector Sigma|circuit key]], and the first appearance of [[Female Transformers]] within official fiction.

The second season also marked a move from weekly airings (usually on Saturday mornings) to a "stripped" show, aired Monday through Friday, either in the morning or afternoon. Some markets also scheduled it in conjunction with daily episodes of ''[[G.I.Joe]]'' (like WPIX in New York, which also aired ''Beast Wars'' when it ran in syndication, and became an affiliate of the WB network, which would originally air the ''Cybertron'' cartoon).

Season Two breaks down very roughly into three segments:

* The first thirteen episodes feature (primarily) the Season One cast.
* A large second batch of episodes brings in the remainder of the 1985 toys.
* The final ten episodes introduce the four [[combiner]] teams that formed the early entries in the 1986 line.
{{--}}
{{collist|2|
# "[[Autobot Spike]]"
# "[[Changing Gears]]"
# "[[City of Steel]]"
# "[[Attack of the Autobots]]"
# "[[Traitor]]"
# "[[The Immobilizer]]"
# "[[The Autobot Run]]"
# "[[Atlantis, Arise!]]"
# "[[Day of the Machines]]"
# "[[Enter the Nightbird]]"
# "[[A Prime Problem]]"
# "[[The Core]]"
# "[[The Insecticon Syndrome]]"
# "[[Dinobot Island, Part 1]]"
# "[[Dinobot Island, Part 2]]"
# "[[The Master Builders]]"
# "[[Auto Berserk]]"
# "[[Microbots]]"
# "[[Megatron's Master Plan, Part 1]]"
# "[[Megatron's Master Plan, Part 2]]"
# "[[Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 1]]"
# "[[Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 2]]"
# "[[Blaster Blues]]"
# "[[A Decepticon Raider in King Arthur's Court]]"
# "[[The Golden Lagoon]]"
# "[[The God Gambit]]"
# "[[Make Tracks]]"
# "[[Child's Play (episode)|Child's Play]]"
# "[[Quest for Survival]]"
# "[[The Secret of Omega Supreme]]"
# "[[The Gambler]]"
# "[[Kremzeek!]]"
# "[[Sea Change]]"
# "[[Triple Takeover]]"
# "[[Prime Target (episode)|Prime Target]]"
# "[[Auto-Bop]]"
# "[[The Search for Alpha Trion]]"
# "[[The Girl Who Loved Powerglide]]"
# "[[Hoist Goes Hollywood]]"
# "[[The Key to Vector Sigma, Part 1]]"
# "[[The Key to Vector Sigma, Part 2]]"
# "[[Aerial Assault]]"
# "[[War Dawn]]"
# "[[Trans-Europe Express]]"
# "[[Cosmic Rust (episode)|Cosmic Rust]]"
# "[[Starscream's Brigade]]"
# "[[The Revenge of Bruticus]]"
# "[[Masquerade]]"
# "[[B.O.T. (episode)|B.O.T.]]"
}}

===Intermediate===
[[Image:Tftm1986b.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Then they like, killed him in the movie. Man, that was awesome.]]
''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' is in continuity with the cartoon series, occurring 20 years after the end of Season 2 (in the then-futuristic year of 2005). It was the single biggest turning point for the series, and remains controversial. The movie saw the introductions of [[Unicron]], the [[Quintesson]]s, and the [[Matrix of Leadership]], all of which would play important roles in Season 3. It made radical changes to the show's cast, killing off many characters and introducing new ones—a shock to young viewers who were used to their heroes driving off into the sunset at the end of every adventure.

Despite its unconventional place in the cartoon canon, it remains the best-known representation of the cartoon series among fans.

===Season 3===
[[Image:Intro3 4 with error.jpg|left|200px|thumb|They didn't make any more cartoons after the movie. Yeah, the movie totally killed Transformers.]]
Season 3 ''transformed'' the whole premise of the show. Gone were the two teams stranded on Earth, along with many of the characters that composed those teams. In their place was a galaxy-spanning tale of battles on alien worlds. With the Autobots in firm control of Cybertron, the Decepticons, though still a threat, were somewhat reduced as villains; new enemies in the form of the [[Quintesson|Quintessons]] were introduced. Plots often centered on the ultra-powerful [[city-bot]]s, [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] and [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]].

Season 3 has a mixed reputation. It contains some of the most mistake-laden episodes of the entire franchise ("Five Faces of Darkness", "Carnage in C Minor", the introduction sequence at left) most of which can be laid at the feet of [[AKOM]]. But some of its episodes are among the best as well, both in animation and scripting; "Dark Awakening", "Chaos", "Webworld", and "Dweller in the Depths" are all heavy fan favorites.

Late in Season 3, as in Season 2, the forerunners of the 1987 toy line were introduced: the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]], [[Technobot (G1)|Technobot]]s, and [[Throttlebot]]s, and (very briefly) the cassettes [[Slugfest (G1)|Slugfest]] and [[Overkill (G1)|Overkill]]. The season concluded with the resurrection of Optimus Prime, spurred on by a massive campaign on the part of fans, who were displeased by his death and subsequent "evil" resurrection.

{{collist|2|
# "[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 1]]"
# "[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 2]]"
# "[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 3]]"
# "[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4]]"
# "[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 5]]"
# "[[The Killing Jar]]"
# "[[Chaos (episode)|Chaos]]"
# "[[Dark Awakening]]"
# "[[Forever Is a Long Time Coming]]"
# "[[Starscream's Ghost]]"
# "[[Thief in the Night]]"
# "[[Surprise Party]]"
# "[[Madman's Paradise]]"
# "[[Nightmare Planet]]"
# "[[Ghost in the Machine]]"
# "[[Webworld]]"
# "[[Carnage in C-Minor]]"
# "[[The Quintesson Journal]]"
# "[[The Ultimate Weapon]]"
# "[[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (episode)|The Big Broadcast of 2006]]"
# "[[Fight or Flee]]"
# "[[The Dweller in the Depths]]"
# "[[Only Human]]"
# "[[Grimlock's New Brain]]"
# "[[Money Is Everything]]"
# "[[Call of the Primitives]]"
# "[[The Face of the Nijika]]"
# "[[The Burden Hardest to Bear]]"
# "[[The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 1]]"
# "[[The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 2]]"
}}

===Season 4===
[[Image:Bumblebee and Goldbug.jpg|right|200px|thumb|They kept making the toys? But weren't those like, the ones that couldn't transform or something?]]
How the truncated Season 4 came about remains a mystery, though presumably the short version is that [[Hasbro]] pulled out its funding support. Whether anything further was ever planned is not known; see ''[[Misconceptions and urban legends about Transformers|Urban legends about Transformers]]'' for more.

As it is, the "season" consisted of a single three-part episode, that somewhat hastily brought in thirty or so new Transformer characters as well as [[Nebulan]] partners for 22 of them, and attempted to provide a satisfactory conclusion to the series as a whole.

The previous three seasons each feature fully original opening credits. For Season 4, however, the opening credit sequence is a mishmash of existing animation, combining high-quality animation sequences from some of the 1986 and 1987 toy commercials with segments of the Season 3 opening credits, which were of a visibly different art style.

# "[[The Rebirth, Part 1]]"
# "[[The Rebirth, Part 2]]"
# "[[The Rebirth, Part 3]]"

===Season 5===
[[Image:Puppetpmprime.jpg|thumb|]]
Season 5 did not feature any new episodes, but rather consisted of 15 episodes from the previous seasons and ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' broken up into five episodes, for a total of 20 episodes. New opening and closing footage was added to each episode, which portrayed an animatronic puppet of [[Powermaster]] [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] meeting regularly with a live-action human named [[Tommy Kennedy]] to tell him old Transformers stories.

{{collist|2|
# "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]"
# "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 2]]"
# "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 3]]"
# ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' (Day 1)
# ''The Transformers: The Movie'' (Day 2)
# ''The Transformers: The Movie'' (Day 3)
# ''The Transformers: The Movie'' (Day 4)
# ''The Transformers: The Movie'' (Day 5)
# "[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 1]]"
# "[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 2]]"
# "[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 3]]"
# "[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4]]"
# "[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 5]]"
# "[[Surprise Party]]"
# "[[Dark Awakening]]"
# "[[The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 1]]"
# "[[The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 2]]"
# "[[The Rebirth, Part 1]]"
# "[[The Rebirth, Part 2]]"
# "[[The Rebirth, Part 3]]"
}}

Autobots

Autobot Commanders
Orion Pax / Optimus Prime (Laurie Faso, Peter Cullen)
Roller
Combat Deck
Ultra Magnus (Robert Stack, Jack Angel)
Autobot Cars
Bluestreak (Casey Kasem)
Hauler
Hound (Ken Sansom)
Ironhide (Peter Cullen)
Jazz (Scatman Crothers)
Mirage (Frank Welker)
Prowl (Michael Bell)
Ratchet (Don Messick)
Sideswipe (Michael Bell)
Sunstreaker (Corey Burton)
Trailbreaker (Frank Welker)
Wheeljack (Chris Latta)
Grapple (Peter Renaday)
Hoist (Michael Chain)
Inferno (Walker Edmiston)
Red Alert (Michael Chain)
Skids (Dan Gilvezan)
Smokescreen (Jack Angel)
Tracks (Michael McConnohie)
Blurr (John Moschitta Jr.)
Hot Rod / Rodimus Prime (Judd Nelson, Dick Gautier)
Kup (Lionel Stander, John Stephenson)
Female Autobots
Ariel / Elita One (Samantha Newark, Marlene Aragon)
Chromia (Linda Gary)
Firestar (Morgan Lofting)
Moonracer (Morgan Lofting)
Arcee (Susan Blu)
Mini Vehicles
Bumblebee / Goldbug (Dan Gilvezan)
Brawn (Corey Burton)
Cliffjumper (Casey Kasem)
Gears (Don Messick)
Huffer (John Stephenson)
Windcharger (John Stephenson)
Beachcomber (Alan Oppenheimer)
Cosmos (Michael McConnohie)
Powerglide (Michael Chain)
Seaspray (Alan Oppenheimer)
Warpath (Alan Oppenheimer)
Outback (Dan Gilvezan, Aron Kincaid)
Pipes (Hal Rayle)
Swerve (Ted Schwartz)
Tailgate (Ted Schwartz)
Wheelie (Frank Welker)
Dinobots
Grimlock (Gregg Berger)
Slag (Neil Ross)
Sludge (Frank Welker)
Snarl (Hal Rayle)
Swoop (Michael Bell)
Computers
Teletraan I (Casey Kasem)
Teletraan II (Frank Welker)
Miscellaneous
Skyfire (Gregg Berger)
Omega Supreme (Jack Angel)
A3 / Alpha Trion (John Stephenson, Corey Burton, Tony Pope)
Blaster (Buster Jones)
Perceptor (Paul Eiding)
Metroplex (Bud Davis)
Scamper (Dan Gilvezan)
Slammer
Six-Gun (Maurice LaMarche)
Sky Lynx (Aron Kincaid)
Wreck-Gar (Eric Idle, Tony Pope)
Fastlane (Rob Paulsen)
Cloudraker (Danny Mann)
Autobot Combiner teams
Aerialbots
Superion (Frank Welker, Ed Gilbert)
Silverbolt (Charles Adler)
Air Raid (Rob Paulsen)
Fireflight (Jeff MacKay)
Slingshot (Rob Paulsen)
Skydive (Laurie Faso)
Protectobots
Defensor (Chris Latta)
Hot Spot (Dan Gilvezan)
Blades (Frank Welker)
First Aid (Michael Bell)
Groove (Frank Welker)
Streetwise (Peter Cullen)
Technobots
Computron (Bert Kramer)
Scattershot (Steve Bulin)
Afterburner (Jim Cummings)
Lightspeed (Danny Mann)
Nosecone (David Workman)
Strafe (Steve Bulin)

Autobot Mini-Cassettes
Eject
Ramhorn (John Hostetter)
Rewind (Townsend Coleman)
Steeljaw (Frank Welker)
Throttlebots
Chase
Freeway
Rollbar
Searchlight (Steve Bulin)
Wide Load
Autobot Triple Changers
Broadside (Bill Martin)
Sandstorm (Jerry Houser)
Springer (Neil Ross)
Headmasters
Fortress Maximus (Stephen Keener)
Chromedome (Frank Welker)
Brainstorm (Michael Bell)
Hardhead (Stephen Keener)
Highbrow (Johnny Haymer)
Arcee (Susan Blu)
Cerebros (Jered Barclay)
Targetmasters
Hot Rod (Dick Gautier)
Kup (John Stephenson)
Blurr (John Moschitta Jr.)
Pointblank (Neil Ross)
Crosshairs (Neil Ross)
Sureshot (Steve Bulen)

----

Decepticon Commanders
Megatron/Galvatron (Frank Welker, Leonard Nimoy)
Shockwave (Corey Burton)
Decepticon Seekers
Starscream (Chris Latta)
Thundercracker (John Stephenson) / Scourge (Stan Jones)
Skywarp (Frank Welker) / Cyclonus' ArmadaNote
Decepticon Coneheads
Dirge (Bud Davis)
Ramjet (Jack Angel)
Thrust (Ed Gilbert)
Insecticons
Bombshell (Michael Bell) / CyclonusNote (Roger C. Carmel, Jack Angel)
Kickback (Clive Revill) / Sweep
Shrapnel (Hal Rayle) / Sweep
Decepticon Mini-Cassettes
Buzzsaw (Frank Welker)
Frenzy (Frank Welker)
Laserbeak (Frank Welker)
Ravage (Frank Welker)
Rumble (Frank Welker)
Ratbat (Frank Welker)
Overkill
Slugfest
Decepticon Triple Changers
Astrotrain (Jack Angel)
Blitzwing (Ed Gilbert)
Octane (Beau Weaver)
Miscellaneous
Soundwave (Frank Welker)
Reflector (Chris Latta)
Spectro
Spyglass
Viewfinder
CyclonusNote (Roger C. Carmel, Jack Angel)
Cyclonus' Armada
Scourge (Stan Jones)
Sweeps
Trypticon (Brad Garrett)
Decepticon Combiner teams
Constructicons
Devastator (Arthur Burghardt)
Scrapper (Michael Bell)
Bonecrusher (Neil Ross)
Hook (Neil Ross)
Long Haul (Gregg Berger)
Mixmaster (Frank Welker)
Scavenger (Don Messick)
Stunticons
Menasor (Regis Cordic, Roger C. Carmel)
Motormaster (Roger C. Carmel)
Breakdown (Alan Oppenheimer, Jack Angel)
Dead End (Philip L. Clarke)
Drag Strip (Ron Gans)
Wildrider (Terry McGovern)
Combaticons
Bruticus (Roger C. Carmel)
Onslaught (Steve Bulin)
Blast Off (Milt Jamin)
Brawl (Tony St. James)
Swindle (Johnny Haymer)
Vortex (Johnny Haymer)
Terrorcons
Abominus (Jim Gosa)
Hun-Grrr (Marshall Efron, Stephen Keener)
Blot (Tony St. James)
Cutthroat (Tony St. James)
Sinnertwin (Jared Barclay, David Workman)
Rippersnapper (Jim Cummings)
Predacons
Predaking (Bud Davis)
Razorclaw (Bud Davis)
Divebomb (Laurie Faso)
Headstrong (Ron Feinberg)
Rampage (Laurie Faso)
Tantrum (Philip L. Clarke)
Headmasters
Scorponok (Stephen Keener)
Mindwipe (Stephen Keener)
Weirdwolf (Stan Jones)
Skullcruncher (Chris Latta)
Targetmasters
Cyclonus (Jack Angel)
Scourge (Stan Jones)
Slugslinger (Peter Cullen)
Triggerhappy (Charles Adler)
Misfire (Stan Jones)
Horrorcon
Snapdragon (Dan Gilvezan)
Apeface (Dick Gautier)

----

Humans Others
Witwicky family
Sparkplug Witwicky (Chris Latta)
Spike Witwicky (Corey Burton)
Daniel Witwicky (David Mendenhall)
Others
Chip Chase (Michael Horton)
Carly (Arlene Banas)
Marissa Faireborn (Susan Blu)
Raoul (Michael Chain)
Abdul Fakkadi (Phillip Clarke)
Villains
Doctor Arkeville (Casey Kasem)
Old Snake (Chris Latta)
Unicron (Orson Welles, Roger C. Carmel)
Quintessons
Quintessons (Jack Angel, Roger C. Carmel, Regis Cordic)
Allicons
Sharkticons (Jim Cummings, Frank Welker)
Dark Guardians
Nebulons
Gort (Michael Bell)
Duros (Charlie Adler)
Arcana (Jack Angel)
Stylor (Stylor)
Pinpointer (Frank Welker)
Spoilsport (Danny Mann)
Peacemaker (Steve Bulen)
Firebolt (Dick Gautier)
Recoil (Johnny Haymer)
Haywire (Rob Paulsen)
The Hive
Lord Zarak (Stan Jones)
Aimless (Milt Jamin)
Blowpipe (John Moschitta)
Caliburst (Johnny Haymer)
Fracas (Neil Ross)
Grax (Milt Jamin)
Krunk (Chris Latta)
Monzo (Neil Ross)
Nightstick (Peter Cullen
Spasma (Tony St. James)
Vorath (Charlie Adler)

===Sci-Fi Channel===
From 1995 to 1997, the Sci-Fi Channel began airing reruns of ''The Transformers'' on their early morning cartoon programming block, [[Animation Station]]. Unfortunately, due to longer commercial slots and/or shorter show times, the decision was made to edit the cartoon down. Sometimes this was done in comparatively harmless fashion, but other times the flow of scenes and even the plot suffered.

In one of the most notorious edits, two lines from [[Grapple]] and [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] in "[[Masquerade]]" ended up smooshed into a single nonsensical jumble: "Time to add fire torobably hate myself in the morning, but—"

==Japanese release==
With the success of ''Transformers'' proven by Hasbro, [[Takara]] elected to cut short their plans for a new ''[[Diaclone]]'' line in 1985 and import the ''Transformers'' toyline and cartoon instead. To play catch-up with Hasbro markets, Takara combined the first two years of toys and cartoon into one series, which was given the excessive (but typical of Japanese cartoons) title of '''''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (franchise)|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers]]'''''.

Although two episodes out of the original 65 were cut ("Attack of the Autobots" and "Day of the Machines"), an additional nine [[clip show]]s were created, composed entirely of re-used footage taken from various episodes, bringing the total number of ''Fight!'' episodes to 72. The two missing episodes were later dubbed and released straight-to-video, then retroactively added to the episode list as numbers 73 and 74.

Additionally, the broadcast order of the series was significantly reworked, with most of the episodes featuring [[Jetfire (G1)|Skyfire]] being pushed to the end of the run (presumably owing the character's shaky status as a Bandai toy in Japan). Contrary to what would be sensible, this did ''not'' involve correcting any of the chronological errors present in the original order; in fact, it even created some new ones.

In 1986, after the release of the OVA "[[Scramble City: Mobilization]]" (but not ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'', which was not released in Japan until 1989) the series was rebranded as '''''[[Transformers 2010 (franchise)|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers 2010]]'''''. All thirty episodes from the third season were dubbed for ''2010'' and reordered (again creating more chronology errors) and two additional clip episodes were produced, bringing the total to thirty-two.

The additional clip shows include the following:

*'''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'''
:14. "[[Birth of the Transformers!]]"
:55. "[[War Without End (episode)|War Without End]]"
:56. "[[Desperate Battle on Dinobot Island]]"
:57. "[[Devastator, the Giant Warrior]]"
:58. "[[Neverending Struggle]]"
:69. "[[Earth's Greatest Crisis]]"
:70. "[[Seek the Cybertonium]] "
:71. "[[Stunticons VS Aerialbots]] "
:72. "[[Mutiny of the Combaticons]]"

*'''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers 2010'''
:29. "[[Daniel's Adventure]]"
:30. "[[The Desperate Struggle of Justice]]"

The numbers denote the airing order of the episodes in relation to the rest of the series.

"The Rebirth" was not broadcast in Japan, in favor of producing a brand new series to continue the story of the animated continuity, beginning with ''[[The Headmasters (cartoon)|The Headmasters]]''. However, all three episodes of "The Rebirth" were released straight-to-video a few years later. Curiously, the dub for "The Rebirth" used standard English-language names and terminology in a more selective manner (for example, "Optimus Prime" remained "Convoy" while "Hot Rod" was not changed to "Hot Rodimus" but retained his English name). Only three actors from ''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' and ''Transformers 2010'' returned to voice their respective characters: [[Tesshō Genda]] (Optimus Prime), [[Seizō Katō]] (Galvatron) and [[Issei Masamune]] (narrator). Every other cast member was replaced with a soundalike, to varying degrees of success.

The Japanese dub also originated a catchphase, used in almost every Japanese Tansformers series "And Now . . . The Battle Begins" originally provided by dub narrator [[Issei Masamune]].

===Edits===
The three American seasons were edited by Takara before their broadcast in Japan. These edits were made not for content, but for length so that the show could accommodate longer opening and ending [[Title sequence|sequence]]s.

The combined length of the U.S. opening and ending sequences was about one minute and ten seconds. The combined length of the Japanese opening and ending sequences, however, was about two minutes and twenty seconds. This resulted in roughly one minute and ten seconds being cut from every single episode.

A few examples of "unnecessary" scenes that were cut to make space for J-pop:

* "[[Roll for It]]". The scene where [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] and [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] first reach the laboratory and meet the southern-accented security guard that gives them clearance.
* "[[Divide and Conquer]]". The scene where the Autobots first return to [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]'s base and he opens fire on them.
* "[[Megatron's Master Plan, Part 1]]". The scene where Spike, [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]] and [[Chip Chase|Chip]] cheer for the Autobots during the Autobot Day parade.
* "[[Only Human]]". The scene where the informant tells [[Victor Drath]] that [[Cobra Commander|Old Snake]] is down the street pacing back and forth, and gets punched in the face as payment.
* All multi-part episodes have their Next Episode previews removed.

The only episodes not to be edited for length are "[[Attack of the Autobots]]", "[[Day of the Machines]]", ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' and all three episodes of "[[The Rebirth, Part 1|The Rebirth]]". These were not edited for length because they were all released straight-to-video, where broadcasting time slots were not an issue. As a result, these episodes are also the only ones to be released on laserdisc and DVD by [[Pioneer]] with optional English or Japanese audio tracks.

==Home video releases==
{{main|The Transformers (cartoon)/home video}}

==Notes==
* While answering a letter from a fan in the letters page to issue 146, the [[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] from the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|UK Marvel Comics]] revealed that he totally knows all about ''The Transformers'' cartoon series. He claims the Marvel Comics depict the events as they actually happened and the cartoon is fictional.[http://transfans.co.uk/comics_guide_detail.php?id=174&page=9]
* Looking at the production codes of the series reveals some choice tidbits:
**The series pilot, "More than Meets the Eye", was produced under a set of different production codes, as it was created before ''Transformers'' was expanded to become an ongoing series. After the pilot, the episode production numbers begin afresh with "700-01" ("Transport to Oblivion"), and proceeded in order until the end of the first season, with "700-13" ("Heavy Metal War"). At the beginning of the second season, it seems the production codes were adjusted to account for the three parts of "More than Meets the Eye", as they take a jump forward to "700-16" with "Autobot Spike". This, of course, is mathematically wrong-o, as "Autobot Spike" is the ''seventeenth'' episode, not the sixteenth.
**''B.O.T.'', the final episode of season 2, was production code 700-64, while ''Five Faces of Darkness, Part 1'', the first episode of season 3, was production code 700-86. The reason for this jump is unknown.
**There is no episode with production code 700-111. ''Grimlock's New Brain'' was 700-110, while ''Call of the Primitives'' was 700-112. The reason for this omission is likewise unknown.
*Twelve episodes were released as audio adventures by the [[Germany|German]] company [[Karussell|Karussell Musik und Video]] (featuring dialogue from the German dub of the cartoon by Polyband with new background music from Karussell's own library), a common practice at the time.
[[Image:WorldOfHectorRamirez.jpg|right|thumb|220px|He's everywhere, and there's no escape.]]

*Cartoon writers are a sneaky lot, and quietly put references to ''[[G.I. Joe (franchise)|G.I. Joe]]'', another show they were working on at the same time, into ''The Transformers''. [[Daina]] of the Soviet Oktober Guard ("[[Prime Target (episode)|Prime Target]]"), [[Flint (G.I. Joe)|Flint]] as [[Marissa Faireborne]]'s dad ("[[The Killing Jar]]"), and an elderly [[Cobra Commander]] ("[[Only Human]]") all appear. We also see [[Hector Ramirez (G1)|journalist Hector Ramirez]], who appears in ''everything'' Sunbow was doing at the time.
{{--}}

==External links==
*[http://groups.google.com/group/net.comics/browse_thread/thread/eab15c298a61cdfb/fce7a2ddb7e35a81 1985 net.comics review]
*[http://www.reocities.com/Area51/Comet/5606/tfepgd.html Aaron Marsh's Transformers Episode Guide] — Including variants and repackagings
*[http://www.facebook.com/pages/Transformers/9160392217 Transformers on Facebook] - Includes information on Matrix of Leadership Box Set

{{DEFAULTSORT:Transformers (cartoon), The}}
[[Category:Continuities]]
[[Category:Generation 1 media]]
[[Category:Generation 1 episodes]]
[[Category:Television series]]

Fire on the Mountain (episode)

2011-10-23T16:28:28Z

Pcnkgcdk:

{{episode
|series=G1toon
|ep=9
|series2=SRLFtoon
|ep2=63
|prev2=Fire in the Sky
|next2=A Plague of Insecticons
|series3=''[[Generation 2 (cartoon)|The Transformers: Generation 2]]''
|ep3=49
|prev3=Megatron's Master Plan, Part 2
|next3=Countdown to Extinction (episode)
|image=Fire on the mountain.jpg
|caption="I don't understand it, baby. This has never happened to me before, honest."
|title="Fire on the Mountain"
|production code=#700-06
|airdate=[[December 22]], 1984
|written by=[[Douglas Booth]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}

'''The Decepticons uncover the Crystal of Power in Peru, and the Autobots resurrect Skyfire to stop them.'''

:''Japanese title:'' インカの秘宝 (''Inka no Hihō'', "Incaic Jewel")
:''Brazilian title:'' '''Fogo na Montanha''' (Fire on the Mountain)
:''Russian title:'' '''Схватка на вершине''' (''Skhvatka na vershine'', "The Engagement at the Very Top")
:''Serbian title:'' '''Ватрена планета''' (''Vatrena planeta'', "Fiery planet")
:''Italian title, dub 1:'' '''Il segreto degli Incas''' ("Secret of the Incas")
:''Italian title, dub 2:'' '''Fuoco sulla montagna''' ("Fire on the mountain")
==Synopsis==
While patrolling a refinery, [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] and [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] spot [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] and [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] stealing steel. The [[Decepticon]]s get away with the loot by collapsing the refinery behind them. The Autobots report back to [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]], who is puzzled about the Decepticons' motives. The [[Autobot]]s launch a [[Sky Spy]] to home in on any Decepticon activity, and the satellite picks up strange energy readings in the [[Peru]]vian [[Andes Mountains|Andes]].

[[Image:Crystalofpower.jpg|thumb|left|200px|]]

There, the Decepticons have followed an [[Inca]]n legend to an ancient temple that rests on a shaft leading deep into the [[Earth's core]], capped by the [[Crystal of Power]]. With the metal acquired by Starscream, the Decepticons have fashioned a weapon frame to accommodate the crystal. [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] spots the Sky Spy, and [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] tests the weapon by blowing the satellite out of the sky. The metal, however, proves inadequate and melts with exposure to the raw energy unleashed from the Earth’s core. Starscream tries to shift blame to Thundercracker for the faulty metal, but Megatron blames them both and has them stay behind at the temple while he soars to a nearby mining town to find replacement metal.

The nearby Peruvian mining town is abuzz with the sudden show of power from the ancient temple. A reactionary elder proclaims that long-forgotten gods have come back to punish them, but her more level-headed granddaughter, [[Luisa]], realizes that someone must have uncovered the fabled Crystal of Power.

[[Image:G1 FireontheMountain Sideswipe piledriving.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Freud would have had a field day with this.]]

In the [[Arctic]], [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] and [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] are jackhammering through the ice to resurrect the fallen warrior [[Jetfire (G1)|Skyfire]]. The massive jet emerges from the ice and transforms into robot mode. Wheeljack immediately assigns him to fly back to Autobot headquarters to pick up Brawn and [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] before heading down to the Andes Mountains.

In short order, Skyfire is in the Andes, closing in on the Decepticons. Windcharger and Brawn skydive from the jet, tangling with [[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] and [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]] while Skyfire goes to investigate the strange energy readings from the Incan temple. While the smaller Autobots are able to hold their own against Megatron’s lieutenants, the Decepticon leader proves too powerful for them and they scatter. Windcharger desperately calls for Skyfire to return while Brawn bites off more than he can chew in the form of an angered Megatron.

[[Image:FireontheMountain SoundwaveMegsgun.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Freud would have had...oh wait, I just said that.]]

Skyfire zooms in to the rescue and gracefully airlifts Brawn and Windcharger from the thick of Decepticon danger. Skyfire quickly returns to the Ark to pick up some reinforcements and streaks back to Peru. He deposits the Autobots near the mining town to take care of Megatron while he goes to investigate the Incan temple.

The Autobots stop Megatron, Reflector and Soundwave mid-raid, with Brawn having the ball-bearings enough to swipe Megatron's [[Fusion cannon|arm cannon]] and blast the Decepticon leader with his own weapon! Laserbeak steals back the weapon and Megatron swears vengeance. He has gathered a metal strong enough for the Crystal, and requests that [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] come to retrieve it, adding further insult to Thundercracker and Starscream who are left guarding the temple.

[[Image:Brawnfusioncannon.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Good grief, it's a running gag.]]

A stray blast during the battle nearly drops an electrical tower on top of Luisa, but she is saved by Spike and Bumblebee. Luisa quickly explains that these "evil creatures" have stolen the Crystal of Power. She leads Bumblebee and Spike to a secret entrance in the temple. Soundwave detects their presence, and dispatches Ravage to follow them.

Meanwhile, Thundercracker spots Skyfire skulking about the temple. The Decepticon warrior is torn; if he blasts Skyfire, Starscream is likely to take all the credit. Conversely, if he lets Skyfire destroy the Crystal-based weapon, perhaps Starscream can take the blame. Starscream overhears Thundercracker plotting, and blasts Skyfire. He then blackmails Thundercracker to do his bidding, lest Starscream reveal to their leader just how uncertain Thundercracker's loyalties can be.

The Decepticons load up their stolen steel with Skywarp's help and depart. To cover their exit, Megatron blasts a nearby mountain, creating a deadly rockfall that threatens the mining town.

The Autobots use their firepower to reduce the falling boulders to pebbles, saving the village. Meanwhile, Megatron returns to the temple, where he successfully tests a new weapon frame that can handle the power of the crystal. Bumblebee, Spike and Luisa surreptitiously arrive in the temple, spotting the inert form of Skyfire. Spike starts repairing the fallen warrior, just as Ravage pounces. Bumblebee tries holding off the Decepticon jaguar while Spike works as fast as he can.

[[Image:G1 FireontheMountain Spike Luisa BB.jpg|left|200px|thumb|There are [[Bumblebee (Movie)|some]] out there who understand what Bumblebee's about to go through.]]

The rest of the Autobots arrive at the temple, but Megatron pins them down with devastating firepower from his weapon frame cannon. The Autobots are able to outflank Megatron, and the tide of battle is turned by Skyfire, freshly repaired by Spike. Skyfire strafes the weapons frame, destroying it and unleashing the power of the mountain. The Decepticons retreat, and Thundercracker takes fleeting pleasure in seeing Megatron and Starscream fail.

That night, Wheeljack caps the fire stream with a new invention that can contain the power that the crystal formerly held in check. The Autobots celebrate their victory while Bumblebee and Spike drive Luisa back to the mining town, where she promises to introduce Bumblebee to her brother’s convertible, Juanita.
{{-}}
==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (3)
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] (4)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] (5)
* [[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]] (7)
* [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] (12)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (15)
* [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] (16)
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Skyfire]] (17)
* [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] (18)
* [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] (19)
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] (20)
* [[Gears (G1)|Gears]] (21)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (22)
* [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] (24)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (25)
* [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] (27)

|c2=
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (1)
* [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] (2)
* [[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] (8)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (9)
* [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]] (10)
* [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (11)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (13)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (23)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (26)

|c3=
*[[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (6)
*[[Luisa]] (14)
}}

==Quotes==
"Looks more like stealing to me… and I'm talking steel!"
:—'''Brawn''' confronts the Decepticons with fists and horrible puns.

"Awww, hexagonal nuts!"
:—'''Trailbreaker''', after he and Brawn totally fail to stop the Decepticons.

"It's cold enough to freeze the ailerons off a [[titanium moosebot]]!"
:—'''Sideswipe'''

'''Soundwave:''' "The Autobot jet is afraid to fight!" 
'''Brawn:''' "Wrong again, you dipstick tapedeck!" 
'''Windcharger:''' "We just didn't want him to spoil ''our'' fun!"

"Have fun playing crystal nurse, Screamer! Byyyye!"
:—'''Skywarp''', being a jerk.

"Fate, schmate. It isn’t over yet, Megabum!"
:—'''Trailbreaker''', after Megatron prematurely gloats of imminent victory.

"Optimus ol' buddy, this is what separates the Autobots from the robot chickens!" 
"Ain’t no one calling me a robot chicken!"
:—'''Ironhide''' and '''Brawn''' don't know what Adult Swim has planned for their kind in 20 years.

"What’s the matter, fearless leader? You and Starscream look real geeky!"
:—'''Thundercracker''', being a jerk.

==Notes==
===Animation or technical errors===
* Only one of Starscream's "boobs" is colored its proper gray as he reminds Thundercracker of who is in charge.
* The back of Brawn's backpack is yellow after he transforms to robot mode.
* As Brawn confronts Starscream and Thundercracker, the Decepticons switch places between shots.
* The blue color of Trailbreaker's eyeband kind of drips down onto his face while the steel plant is collapsing around him.
* Brawn's helmet is light gray as he watches Teletraan's screen.
* Soundwave has a white leg as he follows Megatron down the pyramid's staircase.
* Starscream's eyes are blue as he drags the weapon frame over to Megatron.
* Starscream has extra yellow bits above and below his canopy as Megatron helps him to his feet.
* As Wheeljack encourages Sideswipe, the glow of his right ear isn't quite aligned with the ear itself.
* As he first bursts to the surface encased in ice, Skyfire's (vaguely drawn) profile looks a lot more like his toy than his animation model, with separate booster jets and a rounded cockpit.
* When Sideswipe says "It's Skyfire", He speaks in a raspy voice that is vaguely similar to Scrapper's own voice, even though Scrapper won't appear for another seven episodes.
* The parts of Skyfire's tail end that light up as he activates his jets don't actually correspond to his jet thrusters.

[[Image:FireOnTheMountain Windcharger vehiclemode.jpg|thumb|200px|right|The legs on the animator's Windcharger toy would never stay folded up. Your wiki editors can sympathize.]]
* Someone must have been drawing Windcharger's car mode straight off his toy. As he flees from Laserbeak, his rear section, which is his folded-up feet, is not aligned with the rest of his car body... a problem very commonly found on his toy.
* Soundwave fires on Brawn with his own gun, but with Megatron's cannon sound effect.
* The lower "cheeks" of Megatron's Decepticon symbol aren't colored in just before he transforms to fire on Brawn.
* Megatron's gun mode is entirely white as Soundwave grasps him two-handed, right before the first commercial break.
* Skyfire's engines don't glow throughout the whole sequence of him rescuing Brawn and Windcharger.
* After Skyfire flies the Autobots to Peru, Optimus Prime pats him on the nosecone affectionately. It seems he doesn't recall that section is Skyfire's robot mode crotch.
* Ironhide is colored gray in the aerial shot of the Autobots approaching the steel mill.
* Ironhide and Ratchet have crazy huge side windows as they drive alongside Prime. The same error (and animation?) pops up again in "[[Countdown to Extinction (episode)|Countdown to Extinction]]".
* When Optimus Prime rams Megatron through the wall, the inside of the wall momentarily becomes bright white for some reason, while the view through the newly created hole shows apparent nighttime outside.
* Flying Autobots:
** Bluestreak and Windcharger get an engine-burst noise as they leap out from beneath the collapsing transmission tower.
** Brawn gets a flight sound as he leaps the final distance between him and Starscream.
** Ironhide gets the same treatment as he leaps to attack Megatron.
** And then Prime also gets the same sound effect as he tackles Megatron.
* Bluestreak's mouth isn't moving as he delivers his "watch the birdie" line.
* Soundwave's eject button is on the wrong side (his right shoulder) as he ejects Ravage.
* Thundercracker's weapon barrel has almost no interior as he threatens Skyfire.
* As Starscream rebukes Thundercracker, his air intake is the same dark gray as his helmet, instead of red.
* Rumble's eyeband isn't colored in as the Decepticons fly out of the <s>steel mill</s> mining town.
* When Megatron follows Starscream and Thundercracker out of the pyramid, his Decepticon emblem disappears for a moment.
* As Trailbreaker says his "isn't over yet" line, his leg is red instead of black. Then Wheeljack pops out of the rubble from the spot where Sunstreaker was buried a moment ago.
* One gun, many lasers:
** No fewer than five laser beams are shown flying at Windcharger when Laserbeak isn't on-screen. Even if you count his eye beams, Laserbeak only has four guns.
** As the battle gets fully underway, four laser beams are shown coming from Megatron's crystal weapon.
** Starscream only has two guns to fire at Brawn, but three lasers are shown streaking past him as he runs up the stairs.
* Bumblebee's nose is yellow as he tells Spike he can't hold Ravage off much longer.
* After Skyfire revives, he doesn't have the exterior damage to his chest. Spike was barely able to get Skyfire's interior damage fixed before Ravage batted Bumblebee away and tried to attack the humans. As he transforms to jet mode, Skyfire also has an odd blue panel on his undercarriage which is not normally present.
* When Starscream lands on the temple and starts firing at Brawn and Windcharger, his lasers are Autobot orange instead of Decepticon pink. The next shot shows the usual pink lasers hitting Windcharger.
* In the shot where Megatron's cannon shots are going wild, Starscream's leg is colored Brawn-green.
* As Reflector and Soundwave fire from the cover of the ruins, Reflector is using a tiny gun-mode Shockwave as his weapon!
* In the wide shot a second later, ''all'' the lasers are colored Decepticon pink, even though some are supposed to be Autobot shots.
*When Skyfire swoops over Soundwave and Reflector and destroys their stone bunkers, both the lasers hitting their targets and the explosions are missing, so it appears the walls just fall apart.
* In the wide shot of the temple top, Ironhide's head is gray instead of red; the colorists might have gotten him mixed up with Windcharger.
* The crystal cannon's barrel isn't hollow as Megatrom aims it at Prime and Ironhide.
* Megatron's fusion cannon is light gray instead of black as Prime hoists and throws him.
* The Autobots get a ridiculously loud sound effect for the act of turning on their headlights.
* Bumblebee has no interior when he opens his door to offer Spike and Luisa a lift.

===Continuity errors===
* The Incans apparently built temples with steps large enough for Transformers to use, staircases that lead to blank walls, passages long enough to drive down, and stone doors that automatically open when someone approaches.
* Megatron can pick off the Sky Spy (in low Earth orbit) but can't shoot Optimus Prime when he's 30 feet in front of him. The scope of the Sky Spy's explosion indicates a level of power that the crystal weapon never shows again.
* Skyfire's resurrection is one of the cartoon's most infamously problematic bits of continutity:
** Skyfire was left for dead and mourned as such in his previous, debut appearance in "[[Fire in the Sky]]". Now, suddenly, it just takes Sideswipe's pistons to dig him up out of the ice, and Wheeljack isn't the slightest bit surprised to find him alive and well. Why didn't they just dig him up right after he crashed? They only dug him up when they needed a ride?
** Wheeljack and Sideswipe apparently ''drive to the North Pole'' in order to dig up Skyfire, so he can then fly two other Autobots to South America. Why not just have Brawn and Windcharger drive to South America in the first place? (Of note, Wheeljack and Sideswipe are both capable of flight, though there's nothing to explicitly indicate that they flew to the North Pole.)
** Presumably as a result of some kind of miscommunication in production, Sideswipe is seen using an actual hand-held jackhammer to unearth Skyfire, rather than his customary built-in arm-mounted jackhammers.
** How does Skyfire know Wheeljack's name? Wheeljack wasn't part of the Autobot group that went to the Arctic Circle in "[[Fire in the Sky]]". It's possible they knew each other on Cybertron millions of years ago, but this, of course, isn't indicated.
* The Decepticons leave the temple to attack the mining town. En route, they're attacked by Brawn and Windcharger and drive them off. Skyfire then flies all the way back to Autobot Headquarters, picks up the rest of the Autobots, flies all the way back to Peru... and the Decepticons have apparently just reached the mining town like five minutes earlier.
* Soundwave was last seen at the <s>steel mill</s> mining town battle, but suddenly pops up outside the temple to send Ravage after Bumblebee and the humans.
* "It's not that we had any doubts, Wheeljack, but..." "You don't suppose we could..." "Get a fast ride back into town?" If no lines were cut from between the first and second sentence, then it's just some bizarrely awkward dialog.
* Bumblebee gets a bizarre but clearly intentional bit of humanizing in the episode's final shot, with his whole body frame bending like rubber to show embarrassment.


===Rhino DVD release===
[[Image:Fitm dvd broadcast.jpg|right|200px|thumb|You call this restoration?]]
The Rhino DVD version of this episode uses a number of erroneous takes as the basis of its remastered animation. As a result, the DVD introduces several coloring errors that were not present in the broadcast version:
* Trailbreaker, Brawn, and Starscream are colored red, brown and purple (respectively) in their introductory shots.
* When Skywarp mocks Starscream for having to guard the Crystal, he is colored like Thundercracker.
* When Starscream and Thundercracker carry Skyfire's inert form, Skyfire has Skywarp’s colors.
* "Skyfire is an excellent catch!" In the first shot, Megatron steps up to stand next to Thundercracker (who has a white-instead-of-blue wingtip); in the second shot, Thundercracker has been replaced by Starscream. This is one of a handful of Rhino errors not corrected by the later [[Shout! Factory]] DVD release.
* When Skyfire is about to destroy the cannon, it already appears to be melted to slag.
* When Skyfire strafes the crystal-powered weapon, he momentarily has Skywarp's colors.

The chapter stops for this episode on the Rhino DVD include: Opening / Stolen Steel / It's Skyfire / To The Mining Town / Visiting Decepticon / Invention Works

===Continuity notes===
[[Image:G1 FireontheMountain SS chestmissiles.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Starscream's dreaded boob bombs.]]
* This episode references "[[Fire in the Sky]]", the previous (and first) episode that Skyfire appeared in.
* Gadgets and powers:
** Starscream has a dozen rockets in hidden chest compartments. This ability will appear again in "[[Full Throttle Scramble Power!]]". The feature was later immortalized in toy form for Starscream's ''[[Robot Masters (franchise)|Robot Masters]]'' incarnation through clip-on accessories, and again as part of his ''[[Masterpiece]]'' figure, this time actually incorporated into the figure.
** Soundwave conceals a tricorder-like scanning device in his left wrist.
** The latest device to come out of Laserbeak's head is the microphone-like thing. It's not clear what purpose it serves, as Laserbeak then broadcasts his findings to Megatron via pulsewaves that come out of his ''eyes'', of all things.
** Brawn has a retractable claw that can extend in his car mode.

[[Image:Megatron&crystalofpower.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Seriously, in the cartoon world, crystals are the [[More than Meets the Eye, Part 2|most]] [[The God Gambit|powerful]] [[A Prime Problem|things]] [[Fire in the Sky|ever]].]]
* While the concept makes no sense in real-world terms, this is the second time in almost as many episodes that a greenish crystal has been linked to the Earth's core.

* Skywarp refers to Starscream by the nickname "Screamer" in this episode, a nickname used again by Streetwise in the late Season 2 episode "[[B.O.T. (episode)|B.O.T.]]".

* Fans have long cited this episode when discussing the improbability of Brawn's death in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'', observing that Brawn had previously survived direct hits from Megatron's gun mode in this episode... but it simply ain't so. Brawn ''dodges'' every shot that comes from Megatron. It's actually ''Soundwave'', using his own standard weapon, who shoots Brawn in the head to no effect. Not that we're questioning the indestructibility of the all-powerful Brawn, of course.

* This is the only episode to play on Thundercracker's uncertain loyalties, a trait called out in his original [[bio]]. However, the official [[Sunbow Productions|Sunbow]] synopsis for the episode indicates that it was originally going to take the idea even further:

::"The Autobots arrive to stop [the Decepticons], and Jetfire tries to convince a beleaguered Thundercracker to switch loyalties and join the Autobots. He is caught and wounded by Starscream. Spike, with the help of a local native girl, goes to his rescue, and Jetfire--with a little assist from Thundercracker--turns away the Decepticons and destroys the "Crystal of Power."<ref>http://tfarchive.com/cartoons/bible/#069</ref>

[[Image:Fireonthemountain soundwave vs brawn round1.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Better get use to this, Soundwave.]]

*This is also one of the few episodes in which Thundercracker displays his sonic powers, and even then, only when Starscream whines about the "awful thunder noise" he's making as they fly away. His sonic powers are also mentioned in "[[Heavy Metal War]]", where Megatron uses them after gathering all the Decepticons' powers.

* This episode begins a mini-tradition of Bluestreak [[The Ultimate Doom, Part 2|shooting]] [[Brainstorm!|down]] Laserbeak.

* '''Brawn vs. Soundwave''', Round 1: Brawn 1, Soundwave 0 [[Autobot Spike|>>]]

===Real-world references===
* The title of this episode may be a reference to the Grateful Dead song of the same name.
* The Transformers visit Peru, an ancient Incan temple, and a <s>steel manufacturing</s> mining village where everyone speaks heavily accented English.
* ''[[Star Wars]]'' sound effects:
** Laserbeak pursues Windcharger with a TIE fighter engine roar, and fires on him with the sound of the Death Star super laser firing. After the commercial break, he gets more TIE sounds along with some ''Millennium Falcon'' engines, during several different shots.
** Megatron launches to attack Brawn with another ''Falcon'' engine burst. The roar continues into the next shot as the sound of Skyfire's jets.
** ''Falcon'' engine whine as Laserbeak dives to retrieve Megatron's fusion cannon from Brawn, and again as Bluestreak and Windcharger jump out of the way, and again as Laserbeak starts chasing Bumblebee.
** More TIE engine as Laserbeak continues harassing Bumblebee, along with Death Star superlaser/Alderaan exploding.
** ''Falcon'' engine burst as Skywarp leaves the temple, and ''Falcon'' engine whine as he arrives at the battle site.
** ''Falcon'' whine as Laserbeak perches on Megatron's shoulder.

===Japanese version===
*The Japanese ordering of this episode places it toward the end of the series. This was done as it featured Skyfire prominently and with his toy being of [[Bandai]] design (and not sold in Japan as a Transformer), that caused some legal concerns amongst Takara (many of Skyfire's smaller scenes in other episodes were cut entirely). Though the episodes featuring him as a main characters were eventually shown, the scripts were not reworked to adjust to the new chronological placement, simply being more or less direct translations of the original English versions.

*'''Cut:''' After Brawn declares, "It's fightin' time", the following overhead shot of Starscream and Skywarp fleeing the room is cut. The sequence resumes at the close-up of Starscream saying "Correction, Autobot...".

*'''Cut:''' After Starscream and Thundercracker take-off with the materials, the following scene of Brawn and Trailbreaker crawling out of the rubble, lamenting that they lost the steel and rolling out for headquarters have been cut.

*Additional narration describing the Sky Spy hovering over Peru as been added.

*'''Cut:''' The close-up of Spike's head and his line, "Uh oh, it's picking up a weird energy reading from those ruins", and the monitor shot displaying the ruins, have been cut. The sequence picks up at Laserbeak flying through the air.

*'''Cut:''' When Megatron and the Decepticons take off for the mining town in Peru, the following scene of them flying through the air and Megatron's line, "Any who stand in our way will be demolished", have been cut.

*Additional narration has been added to the scene of all the Autobots loading into Skyfire, informing the audience that the scene is taking place at Autobot Base.

*'''Cut:''' After Skyfire tells everyone to buckle-up and blasts off for Peru, the following scene of him flying over the Peruvian mountains has been cut.

*'''Cut:''' The scene panning over the mountain road leading to the metal forging facility has been cut.

*Additional narration has been added to the overhead pan of the metal forging facility, informing the audience that Megatron is inside (immediately before the animation shows us that Megatron is inside).

*'''Cut:''' During the attack on the Decepticons at the metal forging facility, the scene of Megatron slowly marching forward as laser beams bounce off him has been cut. The sequence resumes at his lines, "Skywarp, I have created a steel alloy...".

*'''Cut:''' The scene of Starscream and Thundercracker carrying Skyfire's unconscious body has been cut. The sequence resumes at the close-up of Skyfire's head as he's being dropped.

===Trivia===
* Luisa's name is never spoken in the episode.
* A hissing sound effect (like the sound of air escaping from a canister) is heavily used in this episode, especially when a character is jumping or taking off into the air. It's never used in such a manner again. {{fact}}
*This was one of the six episodes featured on the ''[[Revenge of the Fallen (Xbox 360/PS3/PC)|Revenge of the Fallen]]'' console game.
*When the Hub re aired season 1 and 2 this was left out the first time

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;VHS
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 1985 — ''The Transformers'' — Volume 8: "Fire on the Mountain" ([[Family Home Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Canada.png|20px|Canada]] 1997 — ''The Transformers'' — War of the Dinobots ([[Malofilm]])
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1995 — ''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' — Megatron Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1999 — ''The Transformers'' — Decepticon Edition ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2001 — ''The Transformers'' — DVD Box 2 (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2002 — ''Transformers'' — Original Series: Volume One ([[Maverick Entertainment|Sony Wonder]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2002 — ''Transformers'' — Complete Original Series: Deluxe Edition (Sony Wonder) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2002 — ''The Original Transformers'' — First Season Collector's Edition ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2002 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Volume Two (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2003 — ''Transformers'' — Collection 1: Series 1 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Season 1 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Classic Transformers'' — Series One: Part Two (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of Italy.png|20px|Italy]] 2008 — ''Transformers'' — Volume 02: Stagione Uno Parte Seconda ([[Medianetwork Communication]]) — English and Italian audio. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2009 — ''Transformers'' — Season One (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete First Season: 25th Anniversary Edition ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection (Shout! Factory)

==References==
<references />

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

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

Garry Chalk

2011-10-06T18:53:00Z

Pcnkgcdk:

[[Image:GaryChalk1.jpg|right|225px|thumb|Garry Chalk: Man-at-Arms]]
'''Garry Chalk''' (born [[February 17]], [[1953]]; also known as '''Gary Chalk''' or '''Gary Chaulk''') is a British-born Canadian voice actor and screen actor. In addition to his ''Transformers'' work, Chalk has also played Donkey Kong and King Hippo in ''Captain N: the Game Master'', Guts Man in ''Mega Man'', [[Dum Dum|Dum Dum Dugan]] in ''[[Nicholas Fury|Nick Fury: Agent of Shield]]'', Grounder in ''The Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog'', [[General Blitz]] in the ''[[G.I. Joe (franchise)|G.I. Joe]]'' offshoot ''[[Sgt. Savage]] and His Screaming Eagles'', and Lt. Stone in the '''other''' G.I. Joe offshoot, ''G.I. Joe Extreme'', among numerous other roles.

He sounds like every awesome grandfather and uncle you ever had and shakes the hands of fans at [[BotCon]], too. Chalk once secretly video taped Eric Stoltz having sex and as a result was broken in two by a [[Fly|giant fly monster]].<ref>The [[1989]] film ''[[Wikipedia:The Fly II|The Fly II]]''</ref>

==Voice roles==
===''Generation 2''===
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]]/[[Superion (G1)|Superion]] (same voice) in a toy [[commercial]]
* [[Leadfoot (G2)|Leadfoot]], also in a toy commercial
* Narrator for Season Two cartoon commercials

===''Beast Wars''===
{{collist|2|
*[[Megatron (G1)|G1 Megatron]] (recorded message)
*[[Onyx Primal]] (script reading)
*[[Optimus Primal]]
*[[Leader Neanderthal]]
*[[Protohuman]]s
}}

===''Beast Machines''===
{{collist|2|
*Optimus Primal
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (hologram)
}}

===''Armada''===
*[[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]]/Jet Optimus

===''Energon''===
*Optimus Prime/Optimus Supreme

===''Cybertron''===
*Optimus Prime
*[[Soundwave (Cybertron)|Soundwave]] (Ep 39 [[Giant]])

==Convention guest==
{{collist|2|
* [[BotCon 1998]]
* [[OTFCC 2003]]
}}
{{-}}
==Notes==
* Chalk is the first ([[David Kaye|but not the only]]) actor to voice both an [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] and a [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] (but in different series).
* Chalk was interviewed as a special feature for [[Madman Entertainment]]'s ''Beast Wars'' season 3 DVD box set and also provided audio commentary.
** During the audio commentary for "[[Beast Wars (Part 2)]]", Garry's cell phone suddenly rings, forcing him to step outside.

==References==
<references />

==External links==
*[http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0149942/ Garry Chalk at the Internet Movie Database]
*[http://www.pieceofcheese.co.uk/Cookbook.html Official Garry Chalk page on Facebook]
*[http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/interviews-27/tfw2005-interviews-transformers-voice-actor-garry-chalk-164728/ TFW2005 Interviews Transformers Voice Actor Garry Chalk]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Chalk, Garry}}
[[Category:Convention guests]]
[[Category:Mainframe Entertainment]]
[[Category:English voice actors]]

Garry Chalk

2011-10-02T15:49:18Z

Pcnkgcdk:

Garry Chalk

2011-10-01T14:35:40Z

Pcnkgcdk:

Garry Chalk

2011-09-28T20:58:45Z

Pcnkgcdk:

Five Faces of Darkness, Part 3

2011-08-30T23:30:25Z

Pcnkgcdk:

{{episode
|series=G1toon
|ep=68
|series2=2010
|ep2=3
|prev2=Five Faces of Darkness, Part 2
|next2=Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4
|image=FFOD3 Decepticons Quintesson ship.JPG
|caption=Intimidating, but they can't hit a single 'Bot.
|title="Five Faces of Darkness, Part 3"
|production code=#700-88
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|animation studio=[[AKOM]]
|airdate=[[September 3]], 1986
|written by=[[Flint Dille]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''Desperate to destroy the Autobots, the Quintessons make a deal with the Decepticons.'''

:''Japanese title:'' 惑星ゴーの罠 (''Wakusei Goo no Wana'', "The Trap on Planet Goo")
:''German title:'' "'''Die fünf Gesichter der Finsternis, Teil 3'''" ("The five Faces of Darkness, Part 3")

==Synopsis==
[[Image:FFOD3 Autobots vacuum.JPG|left|200px|thumb|"I'm Batman, and I can breathe in space."]]
Detonated by the Quintessons, the planet [[Quintessa]] explodes as the Autobots flee. They escape the planet's destruction, but their ship is smashed by a chunk of debris, sending the group hurtling through space. Eventually, Ultra Magnus calculates that they will soon impact an object, but isn't sure if it's a planet or a ship. Rodimus tells him to relax and enjoy the ride.

[[Image:FFOD3 Autobot shuttle boom.JPG|right|200px|thumb|Remember, Wheelie is on this ship.]]

Meanwhile, Cyclonus briefs Galvatron on the recent developments, including the creation of [[Outpost One|a space platform]] to guard [[Earth]]. Intrigued, Galvatron alters course, deciding to punish the [[human]]s for assuming that they could build something to defend themselves against him. Some of the [[Sweep]]s are unnerved by Galvatron's behavior, but Scourge tells them to shut up.

Blurr and Wheelie, carrying Metroplex's [[transformation cog]], arrive in Earth's [[solar system]], and spot Galvatron. They warn [[Outpost One]], but Galvatron destroys the station with ease, then turns his sights on the [[Autobot]]s. Fleeing to the planet [[Jupiter]], the Autobots are forced to abandon ship with Metroplex's cog and end up falling into the upper atmosphere. Galvatron uses his cannon to electrically charge a nearby storm cell, causing a violent and explosive reaction which disrupts the transformation cogs of both Blurr and Wheelie, and ejects them from the planet. The [[Decepticon]]s then depart for [[Chaar]]. Blaster sends warning to [[Mars (planet)|Mars]], where [[Marissa Faireborn]] of [[Earth Defense Command]] heads out on a rescue mission.

[[Image:FFOD3 junk collector.JPG|left|200px|thumb|Not Springer's finest hour.]]

Meanwhile, the Quintessons are contemplating how best to celebrate the death of the [[Prime (rank)|Autobot leader]], when they learn that Rodimus has survived. They conclude that they have no choice but to make an alliance with the one group who can help them: the Decepticons.

The Autobots crash land on a bizarre planetoid named [[Goo]]. They soon discover that they can walk in the planet's gum-like surface, but cannot get out. [[Kup (G1)|Kup]] points out that even though they're stranded, it could be worse. Predictably, a giant machine arrives and begins sucking up various garbage. Springer is caught and sliced up, and Rodimus is next. Despite Arcee and Kup's pleas, Rodimus stands his ground, letting the machine pull him up; he manages to clog the blades with some of the goo, causing it to crash. [[Deliberata]] is surprised, claiming that the Autobots weren't programmed for self-sacrifice.

On Chaar, the Quintessons approach the Decepticons with an offer of [[Energon (fuel)|energon]]. The battered Decepticons are at first hesitant, but once [[Dead End (G1)|Dead End]] samples some energon and lives, the others dogpile on it. The Quintessons make their proposal: in return for unlimited energon, the Decepticons will destroy the Autobots for them. The Decepticons are nervous, saying that they can't take [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] in their present condition, but the Quintessons tell them that Rodimus Prime is on Goo with only a small number of Autobots to guard him. Although it's an offer the Decepticons are eager to accept, Blitzwing is suspicious of the Quintessons, finding them familiar. Motormaster decides to have a vote. The yays have it, but Blitzwing decides to remain on Chaar. The Quintessons are pleased, saying that the Decepticons will soon be theirs... again?

[[Image:FFOD3 Quintessons attack.JPG|right|200px|thumb|No wonder it can't shoot straight. There isn't a single straight line on it!]]

From her ship, Faireborn detects metal fragments which were blown all the way to Jupiter's moon of [[Io]]. On the surface of the Jovian moon, Wheelie and Blurr wake up, not realizing that [[Lipole|they aren't alone]]...

Arriving at Chaar, Galvatron is incensed when Blitzwing informs him that the Decepticons left following others, though he doesn't much care who. Galvatron vows to reclaim his rightful place as Decepticon leader.

On Goo, the Autobots are searching for a way to shut off whatever equipment is keeping the goo warm and soft, allowing them to smash their way out. Suddenly, the Quintesson ship arrives, and a fleet of Decepticons emerges, firing at the trapped Autobots.

[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4|To be continued...]]

{{-}}

==Featured Characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]] (1)
* [[Kup (G1)|Kup]] (2)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (3)
* [[Grimlock (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Grimlock]] (4)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (5)
* [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (7)
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (8)
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] (13)
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (14)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (15)
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (17)
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (18)
* [[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]] (19)
* [[Springer (G1)|Springer]]
* Optimus Prime (episode recap)

|c2=
* [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] (9)
* [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] (10)
* [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] (11)
* [[Sweep]]s (12)
* [[Motormaster (G1)|Motormaster]] (20)
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (21)
* [[Breakdown (G1)|Breakdown]] (22)
* [[Wildrider (G1)|Wildrider]] (23)
* [[Dead End (G1)|Dead End]] (24)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (25)
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (26)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (27)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (28)
* [[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]] (29)
* [[Kickback (G1)|Kickback]] (30)
* [[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] (31)
* [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]] (32)
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] (33)
* [[Drag Strip (G1)|Drag Strip]] (34)
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] (35)
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] (36)
* [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]] (37)
* [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]] (38)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (39)
* [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] (40)
* [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] (42)
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (43)

|c3=
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (6)

|c4=
* [[Deliberata]] (7)
* [[Quintesson]]s (16)
* [[Lipole]] (41)
}}

==Quotes==
"My guidance system is hit! Galvatron, save meeeEEE!" 
"Please meet your end with dignity! I despise whiners!"
:—A '''Sweep''' is left to die by '''Galvatron'''

'''Sweep 1''': This is blowing out my audio sensors. 
'''Sweep 2''': It's torture! 
'''Galvatron''': Hahah, no, no! It's music. The symphony of destruction, and the anthem of agony!
:—Galvatron really needs to see a head doctor.

'''Cyclonus''': Bravo, Galvatron. The Autobots' destruction is assured. 
'''Galvatron''': Assured is not enough. I told you I want their heads, Cyclonus! 
''[moments later]'' 
'''Cyclonus''': Mighty Galvatron... where are the Autobots' heads?! 
'''Galvatron''': ''[whacks him]'' What does it matter? Their destruction is assured!
:—Consistency is not Galvatron's strong suit.

"How pleasant the feeling, to know the Autobots and their Matrix of Leadership have been destroyed." 
"I could watch it over and over again." 
"It is a day so long in coming that I am uncertain how to celebrate it." 
"Perhaps... a quiet chuckle." 
"Very well then. Let us... chuckle."
:—The '''Quintessons''' loved it. It was much better than ''Cats''.

'''Quintesson''': We have not come to kill you. We have come to offer you a proposition. 
'''Dead End''': Uh—Swindle! I think this is your department. 
'''Swindle''': First, see if we can trust 'em. Taste one of the energon cubes.
:—Send the guy named "Swindle" to negotiate. Always a good idea.

"Forget everything I told you about heroism, RUN!"
:—'''Kup''' decides to change his tune when Rodimus Prime nearly faces death by alien garbage truck.

"Well?! Where are they?" 
"You, uh... pose an interesting question, my lord."
:—'''Galvatron''' and '''Cyclonus''' wonder where the Decepticon army went.

"Mark this moment well. For when the Decepticons eliminate the Autobots, they take the first step to their own destruction as well."
:—A '''Quintesson'''

==Notes==
===Animation or technical glitches===
* The inside of Magnus's mouth is red as he announces the Autobots' trajectory.
* As Galvatron exits the warp gate, the gate's energy is shown streaming out of it. The previous scene showed the energy precisely confined within the gate's boundaries; later portrayals of warp gates would remain consistent with this. It looks like the animators might have conflated a view of Galvatron's passage within the warp gate with a view of space outside it.
* As Blurr decides to try and lose Galvatron around Jupiter, his lip flap is far slower than his rate of speech. In the same scene, Wheelie's voice starts getting higher. Just wait, it'll get worse.
* The first shot of this sequence has Blurr and Wheelie standing around and staring at a blank wall for no apparent reason; there were probably supposed to be controls and view screens there.
* The establishing shot of [[Autobot City]] shows some waterfalls that aren't moving at all. (That makes up for the frozen waterfall that [[The Core|spontaneously unfroze]] last season.)
* The EDC base on [[Mars (planet)|Mars]] totally changes shape and size between its two establishing shots.
* When Galvatron transforms to destroy the Autobot shuttle, his arm-mounted cannon flies off of his arm and off-screen... and a new one emerges from his body to replace it in his cannon mode.
* Wheelie takes the transformation cog with him when he ejects from the shuttle, but as he and Blurr fall through the tornado, it's not in either of his hands.
* When Wheelie shoots Galvatron, his Autobot symbol is missing (there's only a red square in its place).
* Improbable viewpoints:
** The Quintessons get a tracking pan view of Rodimus and company floating through space. (Four of the five Aerialbots are missing; only Air Raid is shown.)
* The mouth of the Quintesson reporting the Autobots' trajectory turns gray instead of black for several frames.
* All five of the Aerialbots are supposed to be with Rodimus & company, but only Silverbolt and Air Raid are actually shown.
* It's an AKOM episode, so watch for Grimlock's outdated head design.
* When the Autobots land on Goo, only the skull face of Deliberata is shown arriving. A second later, Kup picks up the same skull face before dropping it back into the goo. Did that one face just fall off?
* Rodimus has his early-casting voice when he says "I don't think it's the welcome wagon". In the same scene, the inside of Magnus's mouth is blue.
* Silverbolt doesn't move his mouth when he says "I'll fly over and see."
* The idea is that the erupting storm blasts Wheelie and Blurr out of Jupiter's atmosphere, but the animation makes it look like they just randomly start flying that way.
* Wheelie says he can't control his transformations, but he doesn't actually transform.
* After having a gray gun last episode, Rodimus is back to the red gun he had in [[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 1|Part 1]].
* Rodimus's lower legs are orange instead of red in the second shot of him and the others firing at the garbage scow.
* Springer's mouth isn't moving when he says, "Maybe I can lift us out of here."
* Springer says "No go!" about his failure to escape from the goo before he's even activated his rotor blades.
* Springer returns to robot mode with no transformation noise.
* As Springer is pulled into the garbage scow, Arcee's helmet is pink on the sides when it should be all white.
* Rodimus's spoiler ridge is yellow instead of orange:
** As he leads the others to try and help Springer.
** During the whole sequence of him bringing down the garbage scow.
* When Rodimus reacts to Springer's destruction, his eyes are black instead of blue.
* Not nearly enough Springer parts come out of the machine to make up the complete Springer.
* "They wanna make a deal with us" is spoken in Swindle's voice, but Blitzwing is shown speaking.
* Astrotrain is missing some details on his back as he dives on the energon cube pile.
* Magnus has a red mouth interior again as he reacts to Rodimus stopping the garbage scow; the underside rim of his helmet is also ''huge''. And gray instead of blue.
* During the same shots, Arcee's backpack is shown in front of her arms (and again, the sides of her helmet are pink).
* The Quintesson Deliberata finally pops up again when he's needed to speak a line, after being absent for the entire preceding sequence. His skull face is properly attached, so, we may never know what was up with the skull face that Kup dropped into the goo.
* As Rodimus asks, "How are we gonna get out of this mess?," Magnus's eyes are only half drawn in.
* The establishing shot of Chaar is pretty clearly Goo, which we just left in the previous scene.
* As Swindle denounces the Quintessons' offer, the top of his torso is purple instead of yellow, and Drag Strip's head is yellow instead of brown.
[[Image:Combaticons bruticus.jpg|right|200px|thumb|The Decepticons are resorting to animation errors to boost their troop numbers.]]
[[Image:Aerilabotindecepticons.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Ah hah, so THAT'S why he isn't on Goo.]]
* The entire next sequence is an infamous continuity and animation FUBAR, as the Decepticons seem to teleport all over the place between shots:
** When the Decepticons react to "Destroy the Autobots", Motormaster is shown with Swindle and Drag Strip. The previous shot ("That means it probably is.) had Wildrider in that spot.
** Onslaught very clearly ''walks'' up to protest the Quintessons' proposal of attacking Cybertron. The next shot is a reaction shot of the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]], with Onslaught down on his knees, and reacting in protest to his own statement! Swindle is also on his knees behind him, even though he was shown with some Stunticons just a shot before. AKOM cheats some "expressive" motion from the Combaticons by just sliding static drawings of them around on the background. Best of all, [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]]—the combined form of the five Combaticons—is standing right behind them! His legs are switched around, and he's the same size as his components.
** In the next shot of the Decepticons, Onslaught is now sitting next to Soundwave and Astrotrain, and Swindle is now behind Dead End.
** [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] is the size of [[Octane]] and [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]].
** The first shot of Blitzwing ("They lie!") shows him behind Rumble and Octane, but when we switch to a view from behind him, he's alone.
** In the wide shot as Dead End agrees with the plan, the Autobot [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] is shown sitting with the Decepticons. Same shot: Drag Strip's head is yellow again. Amazingly, this shot actually consistently keeps Blitzwing behind Octane and Rumble. Dead End, Soundwave and Onslaught are also still together, but Astrotrain has vanished from between them, and Rumble is in the space behind Dead End where Swindle should be.
** Yeah. It's bad, even for [[AKOM]].
* When the Quintessons say they must act quickly, one Quintesson is missing the lower half of his face and another is missing altogether, with just a telltale beam of energy where he should be.
* Only three Sweeps arrive on Chaar. The number following Galvatron up to now has been five to six. The Sweep in the rear has gray legs and gray back details, even though his siblings on either side are colored correctly. Subsequent shots show several additional Sweeps.
* Shots of Galvatron and his men flying over Chaar have Sweeps colored quite creatively:
** "We have fallen upon hard times": a Dirge-colored Sweep
** Panning shot: Swindle, Soundwave, and Dirge-colored Sweeps
** "Soon I shall raise the Deceptions": Bombshell, Grimlock, and maybe others.
* The top of Blitzwing's head is purple instead of yellow as he struggles to remember the Quintessons' name.
* Cyclonus's jet windows aren't colored in as Galvatron says "Who cares?"
* Wheelie and Blurr have switched positions from where they crashed; Wheelie was on Blurr's left, but now he's on Blurr's right.
* As he and Blurr awake on Io, Wheelie doesn't have his usual voice. The strained, high-pitched, whiny substitute used instead makes his usual voice sound like sweet music.
* The animation of the [[lipole]]s seems to portray them as giant walking beasts (and ''definitely'' portrays them as glowing and dripping acid from their fangs), with deep-throated snarls and growls. Nothing wrong so far, but next episode they'll be a swarm of tiny, non-glowing, non-acid-dripping, flying, high-pitched-squeaking creatures. Whether the animators misinterpreted the writer's directions in this episode, or the writer himself changed his mind between installments, remains unclear.
* Wheelie's final lines lack the usual processing (which was already not up to snuff in this episode.)
* Right in the middle of the discussion about how to shut off the inescapable goo... Rodimus just walks right out of it!
* Only Air Raid is shown during the final sequence on Goo; the other four Aerialbots are missing (again!)
* Rodimus says "What was that?" in reaction to laser fire that hasn't happened yet.
[[Image:Shockwave5Faces.jpg|thumb|right|200px|My coloring scheme is illogical.]]
* Another infamous cluster follows as the Decepticons pour out of the Quintesson ship and fire on the Autobots:
** The first shot features a light gray [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]] with a Blurr-like head bobber (maybe someone at AKOM was reading "[[Decepticon Patrol]]"?) and Shockwave colored like Long Haul.
** The second shot features a clearer shot of Shock Haul, as well as [[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]], who was reformatted into a Sweep during the Movie. Behind them, Dirge is missing his wings.
** If that doesn't seem so bad, wait until the same sequence continues next time!
* Although both the [[Kid Rhino]] and [[Shout! Factory]] versions of this episode contain the correct unique opening titles for the story (one of only two parts of "Five Faces of Darkness" on DVD that do), the Shout! version incorrectly uses the soundtrack to the standard season three opening as now found on the broadcast masters to all five parts.

===Continuity errors===
* The Autobot ship which looks exactly like Broadside is destroyed in the explosion of Quintessa. Broadside himself shows up alive and well later in the series, so... apparently that wasn't Broadside.
* The Aerialbots are clearly capable of at least limited space flight, as seen both in the previous episode, and the later episode "[[Fight or Flee]]". It therefore seems a bit silly for them to be tumbling helplessly through space.
* Spike is in his civilian clothes when he boards the Autobot ship. When it's destroyed a few seconds later, he's got on a space suit. Even if that ''was'' the first thing he did the instant he set foot on the ship, it sure doesn't look like he'd have ''time'' to change into it.
* The animation shows Marissa pushing a button and saying "On my way!" The next shot shows her ship rocketing off of its launching rail. The net effect is that she seems to have just been sitting there in this angled ship, waiting around for a mission.
* Rodimus is shown standing outside the garbage scow after he brings it down. Considering it came down right on top of him, he should really be ''inside'' it. (Or under it.)
* Kup says to Rodimus, "I've seen a lotta brave Autobots do a lotta brave things in my time, but nothing like that." With all Kup's experience, it's a little hard to swallow that that's the ''bravest'' thing he has ever witnessed.

===ERRORS. OF. ''SCIENCE!''===
* Cyclonus's first line is muffled as if he were communicating by radio to Galvatron. ''Technically'', that's actually correct, since they're in the soundless vacuum of space and should be communicating by radio. But it's inconsistent with every other portrayal of Transformers communicating in space, including the rest of this very scene. Anyway, wouldn't super-advanced space robots have hi-fi communicators that wouldn't sound like walkie-talkies?
* [[Trooper Sullivan]] is shown radioing [[Earth Defense Command]] with a hand-held radio as he's floating through space. The "mouth plate" of his helmet even moves as he does so. Unlike the super-advanced space robots, he does not get a "really talking by radio" pass for this.
* Jupiter's ring appears to be composed of scrap metal (instead of ice.) The planet itself is shown as a dusky orange instead of the banded red, white, brown and tan of the actual planet.
* The Autobot shuttle loops around a gray, homogeneous moon of Jupiter. It's not clear that this ''has'' to be [[Io]], but if it is, it's all wrong. The real moon is orange and red, with black and white splotches, and looks like a pizza. Later, when Wheelie and Blurr are ejected from Jupiter's atmosphere, a distant Io (for sure this time!) is shown looking a lot like post-Movie Cybertron, silvery with spikey buildings poking out into space.
* During the establishing zoom-in toward [[Earth]], two planet-like objects are in the foreground, in close proximity to the other. The smaller one is the [[Moon (moon)|Moon]], but there's no real-world body that could be the other one. The reddish color may mean it's supposed to be [[Mars (planet)|Mars]] (which comes into play in the following scene), but it's waaaaay too close to the Moon for that.
* Wow. Who knew that storms on Jupiter were so... ''flammable''?
* There probably isn't life on Io.

===Trivia===
* The sequence on Goo is the inspiration for the last portion of the ''Five Faces of Darkness'' custom title sequence, though in a clever spoiler-avoiding twist, Springer actually ''does'' get free from the goo in the title animation.
* Rodimus refers to Springer with the nickname "Springo". It recurs only once, in [[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4|the next episode]].
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] mentions that the gooey substance on Goo reminds him of stuff he put under his chair in high school. Although this is disgusting, it does raise a valid question: when did Spike ever have time to go to school during the first two seasons?

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;VHS
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 1990 — ''The Transformers'' — Five Faces of Darkness ([[Family Home Entertainment]])
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 1990 — ''The Transformers'' — Five Faces of Darkness (Family Home Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1999 — ''The Transformers: 2010'' ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2001 — ''The Transformers: 2010'' — DVD Box (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2002 — ''Transformers'' — Five Faces of Darkness: Parts 1-5 ([[Maverick Entertainment|Sony Wonder]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2003 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 3 Part 1 ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2003 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 3 Part 1: Vol. 1 (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Season 3 and Season 4 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Collection 4: Series 3.1 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2009 — ''Transformers'' — Season's Three & Four {{sic}} (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2010 — ''The Transformers'' — Seasons Three & Four: 25th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory)

==External links==
*[http://cybertronchronicle.freewebspace.com/cartoon-dossier/synopses/five_faces_of_darkness_part_3.html Dossier at the Cybertron Chronicle]

[[Category:Generation 1 episodes]]

Five Faces of Darkness, Part 3

2011-08-26T13:45:50Z

Pcnkgcdk:

{{episode
|series=G1toon
|ep=68
|series2=2010
|ep2=3
|prev2=Five Faces of Darkness, Part 2
|next2=Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4
|image=FFOD3 Decepticons Quintesson ship.JPG
|caption=Intimidating, but they can't hit a single 'Bot.
|title="Five Faces of Darkness, Part 3"
|production code=#700-88
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|animation studio=[[AKOM]]
|airdate=[[September 3]], 1986
|written by=[[Flint Dille]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''Desperate to destroy the Autobots, the Quintessons make a deal with the Decepticons.'''

:''Japanese title:'' 惑星ゴーの罠 (''Wakusei Goo no Wana'', "The Trap on Planet Goo")
:''German title:'' "'''Die fünf Gesichter der Finsternis, Teil 3'''" ("The five Faces of Darkness, Part 3")

==Synopsis==
[[Image:FFOD3 Autobots vacuum.JPG|left|200px|thumb|"I'm Batman, and I can breathe in space."]]
Detonated by the Quintessons, the planet [[Quintessa]] explodes as the Autobots flee. They escape the planet's destruction, but their ship is smashed by a chunk of debris, sending the group hurtling through space. Eventually, Ultra Magnus calculates that they will soon impact an object, but isn't sure if it's a planet or a ship. Rodimus tells him to relax and enjoy the ride.

[[Image:FFOD3 Autobot shuttle boom.JPG|right|200px|thumb|Remember, Wheelie is on this ship.]]

Meanwhile, Cyclonus briefs Galvatron on the recent developments, including the creation of [[Outpost One|a space platform]] to guard [[Earth]]. Intrigued, Galvatron alters course, deciding to punish the [[human]]s for assuming that they could build something to defend themselves against him. Some of the [[Sweep]]s are unnerved by Galvatron's behavior, but Scourge tells them to shut up.

Blurr and Wheelie, carrying Metroplex's [[transformation cog]], arrive in Earth's [[solar system]], and spot Galvatron. They warn [[Outpost One]], but Galvatron destroys the station with ease, then turns his sights on the [[Autobot]]s. Fleeing to the planet [[Jupiter]], the Autobots are forced to abandon ship with Metroplex's cog and end up falling into the upper atmosphere. Galvatron uses his cannon to electrically charge a nearby storm cell, causing a violent and explosive reaction which disrupts the transformation cogs of both Blurr and Wheelie, and ejects them from the planet. The [[Decepticon]]s then depart for [[Chaar]]. Blaster sends warning to [[Mars (planet)|Mars]], where [[Marissa Faireborn]] of [[Earth Defense Command]] heads out on a rescue mission.

[[Image:FFOD3 junk collector.JPG|left|200px|thumb|Not Springer's finest hour.]]

Meanwhile, the Quintessons are contemplating how best to celebrate the death of the [[Prime (rank)|Autobot leader]], when they learn that Rodimus has survived. They conclude that they have no choice but to make an alliance with the one group who can help them: the Decepticons.

The Autobots crash land on a bizarre planetoid named [[Goo]]. They soon discover that they can walk in the planet's gum-like surface, but cannot get out. [[Kup (G1)|Kup]] points out that even though they're stranded, it could be worse. Predictably, a giant machine arrives and begins sucking up various garbage. Springer is caught and sliced up, and Rodimus is next. Despite Arcee and Kup's pleas, Rodimus stands his ground, letting the machine pull him up; he manages to clog the blades with some of the goo, causing it to crash. [[Deliberata]] is surprised, claiming that the Autobots weren't programmed for self-sacrifice.

On Chaar, the Quintessons approach the Decepticons with an offer of [[Energon (fuel)|energon]]. The battered Decepticons are at first hesitant, but once [[Dead End (G1)|Dead End]] samples some energon and lives, the others dogpile on it. The Quintessons make their proposal: in return for unlimited energon, the Decepticons will destroy the Autobots for them. The Decepticons are nervous, saying that they can't take [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] in their present condition, but the Quintessons tell them that Rodimus Prime is on Goo with only a small number of Autobots to guard him. Although it's an offer the Decepticons are eager to accept, Blitzwing is suspicious of the Quintessons, finding them familiar. Motormaster decides to have a vote. The yays have it, but Blitzwing decides to remain on Chaar. The Quintessons are pleased, saying that the Decepticons will soon be theirs... again?

[[Image:FFOD3 Quintessons attack.JPG|right|200px|thumb|No wonder it can't shoot straight. There isn't a single straight line on it!]]

From her ship, Faireborn detects metal fragments which were blown all the way to Jupiter's moon of [[Io]]. On the surface of the Jovian moon, Wheelie and Blurr wake up, not realizing that [[Lipole|they aren't alone]]...

Arriving at Chaar, Galvatron is incensed when Blitzwing informs him that the Decepticons left following others, though he doesn't much care who. Galvatron vows to reclaim his rightful place as Decepticon leader.

On Goo, the Autobots are searching for a way to shut off whatever equipment is keeping the goo warm and soft, allowing them to smash their way out. Suddenly, the Quintesson ship arrives, and a fleet of Decepticons emerges, firing at the trapped Autobots.

[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4|To be continued...]]

{{-}}

==Featured Characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]] (1)
* [[Kup (G1)|Kup]] (2)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (3)
* [[Grimlock (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Grimlock]] (4)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (5)
* [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (7)
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (8)
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] (13)
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (14)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (15)
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (17)
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (18)
* [[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]] (19)
* [[Springer (G1)|Springer]]
* Optimus Prime (Last time recap)

|c2=
* [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] (9)
* [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] (10)
* [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] (11)
* [[Sweep]]s (12)
* [[Motormaster (G1)|Motormaster]] (20)
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (21)
* [[Breakdown (G1)|Breakdown]] (22)
* [[Wildrider (G1)|Wildrider]] (23)
* [[Dead End (G1)|Dead End]] (24)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (25)
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (26)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (27)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (28)
* [[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]] (29)
* [[Kickback (G1)|Kickback]] (30)
* [[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] (31)
* [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]] (32)
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] (33)
* [[Drag Strip (G1)|Drag Strip]] (34)
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] (35)
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] (36)
* [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]] (37)
* [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]] (38)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (39)
* [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] (40)
* [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] (42)
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (43)

|c3=
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (6)

|c4=
* [[Deliberata]] (7)
* [[Quintesson]]s (16)
* [[Lipole]] (41)
}}

==Quotes==
"My guidance system is hit! Galvatron, save meeeEEE!" 
"Please meet your end with dignity! I despise whiners!"
:—A '''Sweep''' is left to die by '''Galvatron'''

'''Sweep 1''': This is blowing out my audio sensors. 
'''Sweep 2''': It's torture! 
'''Galvatron''': Hahah, no, no! It's music. The symphony of destruction, and the anthem of agony!
:—Galvatron really needs to see a head doctor.

'''Cyclonus''': Bravo, Galvatron. The Autobots' destruction is assured. 
'''Galvatron''': Assured is not enough. I told you I want their heads, Cyclonus! 
''[moments later]'' 
'''Cyclonus''': Mighty Galvatron... where are the Autobots' heads?! 
'''Galvatron''': ''[whacks him]'' What does it matter? Their destruction is assured!
:—Consistency is not Galvatron's strong suit.

"How pleasant the feeling, to know the Autobots and their Matrix of Leadership have been destroyed." 
"I could watch it over and over again." 
"It is a day so long in coming that I am uncertain how to celebrate it." 
"Perhaps... a quiet chuckle." 
"Very well then. Let us... chuckle."
:—The '''Quintessons''' loved it. It was much better than ''Cats''.

'''Quintesson''': We have not come to kill you. We have come to offer you a proposition. 
'''Dead End''': Uh—Swindle! I think this is your department. 
'''Swindle''': First, see if we can trust 'em. Taste one of the energon cubes.
:—Send the guy named "Swindle" to negotiate. Always a good idea.

"Forget everything I told you about heroism, RUN!"
:—'''Kup''' decides to change his tune when Rodimus Prime nearly faces death by alien garbage truck.

"Well?! Where are they?" 
"You, uh... pose an interesting question, my lord."
:—'''Galvatron''' and '''Cyclonus''' wonder where the Decepticon army went.

"Mark this moment well. For when the Decepticons eliminate the Autobots, they take the first step to their own destruction as well."
:—A '''Quintesson'''

==Notes==
===Animation or technical glitches===
* The inside of Magnus's mouth is red as he announces the Autobots' trajectory.
* As Galvatron exits the warp gate, the gate's energy is shown streaming out of it. The previous scene showed the energy precisely confined within the gate's boundaries; later portrayals of warp gates would remain consistent with this. It looks like the animators might have conflated a view of Galvatron's passage within the warp gate with a view of space outside it.
* As Blurr decides to try and lose Galvatron around Jupiter, his lip flap is far slower than his rate of speech. In the same scene, Wheelie's voice starts getting higher. Just wait, it'll get worse.
* The first shot of this sequence has Blurr and Wheelie standing around and staring at a blank wall for no apparent reason; there were probably supposed to be controls and view screens there.
* The establishing shot of [[Autobot City]] shows some waterfalls that aren't moving at all. (That makes up for the frozen waterfall that [[The Core|spontaneously unfroze]] last season.)
* The EDC base on [[Mars (planet)|Mars]] totally changes shape and size between its two establishing shots.
* When Galvatron transforms to destroy the Autobot shuttle, his arm-mounted cannon flies off of his arm and off-screen... and a new one emerges from his body to replace it in his cannon mode.
* Wheelie takes the transformation cog with him when he ejects from the shuttle, but as he and Blurr fall through the tornado, it's not in either of his hands.
* When Wheelie shoots Galvatron, his Autobot symbol is missing (there's only a red square in its place).
* Improbable viewpoints:
** The Quintessons get a tracking pan view of Rodimus and company floating through space. (Four of the five Aerialbots are missing; only Air Raid is shown.)
* The mouth of the Quintesson reporting the Autobots' trajectory turns gray instead of black for several frames.
* All five of the Aerialbots are supposed to be with Rodimus & company, but only Silverbolt and Air Raid are actually shown.
* It's an AKOM episode, so watch for Grimlock's outdated head design.
* When the Autobots land on Goo, only the skull face of Deliberata is shown arriving. A second later, Kup picks up the same skull face before dropping it back into the goo. Did that one face just fall off?
* Rodimus has his early-casting voice when he says "I don't think it's the welcome wagon". In the same scene, the inside of Magnus's mouth is blue.
* Silverbolt doesn't move his mouth when he says "I'll fly over and see."
* The idea is that the erupting storm blasts Wheelie and Blurr out of Jupiter's atmosphere, but the animation makes it look like they just randomly start flying that way.
* Wheelie says he can't control his transformations, but he doesn't actually transform.
* After having a gray gun last episode, Rodimus is back to the red gun he had in [[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 1|Part 1]].
* Rodimus's lower legs are orange instead of red in the second shot of him and the others firing at the garbage scow.
* Springer's mouth isn't moving when he says, "Maybe I can lift us out of here."
* Springer says "No go!" about his failure to escape from the goo before he's even activated his rotor blades.
* Springer returns to robot mode with no transformation noise.
* As Springer is pulled into the garbage scow, Arcee's helmet is pink on the sides when it should be all white.
* Rodimus's spoiler ridge is yellow instead of orange:
** As he leads the others to try and help Springer.
** During the whole sequence of him bringing down the garbage scow.
* When Rodimus reacts to Springer's destruction, his eyes are black instead of blue.
* Not nearly enough Springer parts come out of the machine to make up the complete Springer.
* "They wanna make a deal with us" is spoken in Swindle's voice, but Blitzwing is shown speaking.
* Astrotrain is missing some details on his back as he dives on the energon cube pile.
* Magnus has a red mouth interior again as he reacts to Rodimus stopping the garbage scow; the underside rim of his helmet is also ''huge''. And gray instead of blue.
* During the same shots, Arcee's backpack is shown in front of her arms (and again, the sides of her helmet are pink).
* The Quintesson Deliberata finally pops up again when he's needed to speak a line, after being absent for the entire preceding sequence. His skull face is properly attached, so, we may never know what was up with the skull face that Kup dropped into the goo.
* As Rodimus asks, "How are we gonna get out of this mess?," Magnus's eyes are only half drawn in.
* The establishing shot of Chaar is pretty clearly Goo, which we just left in the previous scene.
* As Swindle denounces the Quintessons' offer, the top of his torso is purple instead of yellow, and Drag Strip's head is yellow instead of brown.
[[Image:Combaticons bruticus.jpg|right|200px|thumb|The Decepticons are resorting to animation errors to boost their troop numbers.]]
[[Image:Aerilabotindecepticons.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Ah hah, so THAT'S why he isn't on Goo.]]
* The entire next sequence is an infamous continuity and animation FUBAR, as the Decepticons seem to teleport all over the place between shots:
** When the Decepticons react to "Destroy the Autobots", Motormaster is shown with Swindle and Drag Strip. The previous shot ("That means it probably is.) had Wildrider in that spot.
** Onslaught very clearly ''walks'' up to protest the Quintessons' proposal of attacking Cybertron. The next shot is a reaction shot of the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]], with Onslaught down on his knees, and reacting in protest to his own statement! Swindle is also on his knees behind him, even though he was shown with some Stunticons just a shot before. AKOM cheats some "expressive" motion from the Combaticons by just sliding static drawings of them around on the background. Best of all, [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]]—the combined form of the five Combaticons—is standing right behind them! His legs are switched around, and he's the same size as his components.
** In the next shot of the Decepticons, Onslaught is now sitting next to Soundwave and Astrotrain, and Swindle is now behind Dead End.
** [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] is the size of [[Octane]] and [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]].
** The first shot of Blitzwing ("They lie!") shows him behind Rumble and Octane, but when we switch to a view from behind him, he's alone.
** In the wide shot as Dead End agrees with the plan, the Autobot [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] is shown sitting with the Decepticons. Same shot: Drag Strip's head is yellow again. Amazingly, this shot actually consistently keeps Blitzwing behind Octane and Rumble. Dead End, Soundwave and Onslaught are also still together, but Astrotrain has vanished from between them, and Rumble is in the space behind Dead End where Swindle should be.
** Yeah. It's bad, even for [[AKOM]].
* When the Quintessons say they must act quickly, one Quintesson is missing the lower half of his face and another is missing altogether, with just a telltale beam of energy where he should be.
* Only three Sweeps arrive on Chaar. The number following Galvatron up to now has been five to six. The Sweep in the rear has gray legs and gray back details, even though his siblings on either side are colored correctly. Subsequent shots show several additional Sweeps.
* Shots of Galvatron and his men flying over Chaar have Sweeps colored quite creatively:
** "We have fallen upon hard times": a Dirge-colored Sweep
** Panning shot: Swindle, Soundwave, and Dirge-colored Sweeps
** "Soon I shall raise the Deceptions": Bombshell, Grimlock, and maybe others.
* The top of Blitzwing's head is purple instead of yellow as he struggles to remember the Quintessons' name.
* Cyclonus's jet windows aren't colored in as Galvatron says "Who cares?"
* Wheelie and Blurr have switched positions from where they crashed; Wheelie was on Blurr's left, but now he's on Blurr's right.
* As he and Blurr awake on Io, Wheelie doesn't have his usual voice. The strained, high-pitched, whiny substitute used instead makes his usual voice sound like sweet music.
* The animation of the [[lipole]]s seems to portray them as giant walking beasts (and ''definitely'' portrays them as glowing and dripping acid from their fangs), with deep-throated snarls and growls. Nothing wrong so far, but next episode they'll be a swarm of tiny, non-glowing, non-acid-dripping, flying, high-pitched-squeaking creatures. Whether the animators misinterpreted the writer's directions in this episode, or the writer himself changed his mind between installments, remains unclear.
* Wheelie's final lines lack the usual processing (which was already not up to snuff in this episode.)
* Right in the middle of the discussion about how to shut off the inescapable goo... Rodimus just walks right out of it!
* Only Air Raid is shown during the final sequence on Goo; the other four Aerialbots are missing (again!)
* Rodimus says "What was that?" in reaction to laser fire that hasn't happened yet.
[[Image:Shockwave5Faces.jpg|thumb|right|200px|My coloring scheme is illogical.]]
* Another infamous cluster follows as the Decepticons pour out of the Quintesson ship and fire on the Autobots:
** The first shot features a light gray [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]] with a Blurr-like head bobber (maybe someone at AKOM was reading "[[Decepticon Patrol]]"?) and Shockwave colored like Long Haul.
** The second shot features a clearer shot of Shock Haul, as well as [[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]], who was reformatted into a Sweep during the Movie. Behind them, Dirge is missing his wings.
** If that doesn't seem so bad, wait until the same sequence continues next time!
* Although both the [[Kid Rhino]] and [[Shout! Factory]] versions of this episode contain the correct unique opening titles for the story (one of only two parts of "Five Faces of Darkness" on DVD that do), the Shout! version incorrectly uses the soundtrack to the standard season three opening as now found on the broadcast masters to all five parts.

===Continuity errors===
* The Autobot ship which looks exactly like Broadside is destroyed in the explosion of Quintessa. Broadside himself shows up alive and well later in the series, so... apparently that wasn't Broadside.
* The Aerialbots are clearly capable of at least limited space flight, as seen both in the previous episode, and the later episode "[[Fight or Flee]]". It therefore seems a bit silly for them to be tumbling helplessly through space.
* Spike is in his civilian clothes when he boards the Autobot ship. When it's destroyed a few seconds later, he's got on a space suit. Even if that ''was'' the first thing he did the instant he set foot on the ship, it sure doesn't look like he'd have ''time'' to change into it.
* The animation shows Marissa pushing a button and saying "On my way!" The next shot shows her ship rocketing off of its launching rail. The net effect is that she seems to have just been sitting there in this angled ship, waiting around for a mission.
* Rodimus is shown standing outside the garbage scow after he brings it down. Considering it came down right on top of him, he should really be ''inside'' it. (Or under it.)
* Kup says to Rodimus, "I've seen a lotta brave Autobots do a lotta brave things in my time, but nothing like that." With all Kup's experience, it's a little hard to swallow that that's the ''bravest'' thing he has ever witnessed.

===ERRORS. OF. ''SCIENCE!''===
* Cyclonus's first line is muffled as if he were communicating by radio to Galvatron. ''Technically'', that's actually correct, since they're in the soundless vacuum of space and should be communicating by radio. But it's inconsistent with every other portrayal of Transformers communicating in space, including the rest of this very scene. Anyway, wouldn't super-advanced space robots have hi-fi communicators that wouldn't sound like walkie-talkies?
* [[Trooper Sullivan]] is shown radioing [[Earth Defense Command]] with a hand-held radio as he's floating through space. The "mouth plate" of his helmet even moves as he does so. Unlike the super-advanced space robots, he does not get a "really talking by radio" pass for this.
* Jupiter's ring appears to be composed of scrap metal (instead of ice.) The planet itself is shown as a dusky orange instead of the banded red, white, brown and tan of the actual planet.
* The Autobot shuttle loops around a gray, homogeneous moon of Jupiter. It's not clear that this ''has'' to be [[Io]], but if it is, it's all wrong. The real moon is orange and red, with black and white splotches, and looks like a pizza. Later, when Wheelie and Blurr are ejected from Jupiter's atmosphere, a distant Io (for sure this time!) is shown looking a lot like post-Movie Cybertron, silvery with spikey buildings poking out into space.
* During the establishing zoom-in toward [[Earth]], two planet-like objects are in the foreground, in close proximity to the other. The smaller one is the [[Moon (moon)|Moon]], but there's no real-world body that could be the other one. The reddish color may mean it's supposed to be [[Mars (planet)|Mars]] (which comes into play in the following scene), but it's waaaaay too close to the Moon for that.
* Wow. Who knew that storms on Jupiter were so... ''flammable''?
* There probably isn't life on Io.

===Trivia===
* The sequence on Goo is the inspiration for the last portion of the ''Five Faces of Darkness'' custom title sequence, though in a clever spoiler-avoiding twist, Springer actually ''does'' get free from the goo in the title animation.
* Rodimus refers to Springer with the nickname "Springo". It recurs only once, in [[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4|the next episode]].
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] mentions that the gooey substance on Goo reminds him of stuff he put under his chair in high school. Although this is disgusting, it does raise a valid question: when did Spike ever have time to go to school during the first two seasons?

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;VHS
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 1990 — ''The Transformers'' — Five Faces of Darkness ([[Family Home Entertainment]])
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 1990 — ''The Transformers'' — Five Faces of Darkness (Family Home Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1999 — ''The Transformers: 2010'' ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2001 — ''The Transformers: 2010'' — DVD Box (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2002 — ''Transformers'' — Five Faces of Darkness: Parts 1-5 ([[Maverick Entertainment|Sony Wonder]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2003 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 3 Part 1 ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2003 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 3 Part 1: Vol. 1 (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Season 3 and Season 4 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Collection 4: Series 3.1 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2009 — ''Transformers'' — Season's Three & Four {{sic}} (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2010 — ''The Transformers'' — Seasons Three & Four: 25th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory)

==External links==
*[http://cybertronchronicle.freewebspace.com/cartoon-dossier/synopses/five_faces_of_darkness_part_3.html Dossier at the Cybertron Chronicle]

[[Category:Generation 1 episodes]]

Five Faces of Darkness, Part 2

2011-08-26T13:43:56Z

Pcnkgcdk:

{{episode
|series=G1toon
|ep=67
|series2=2010
|ep2=2
|prev2=Five Faces of Darkness, Part 1
|next2=Five Faces of Darkness, Part 3
|image=FFOD2 Galvatron sparks.JPG
|caption=Only Galvatron can see the Energon Fairies
|title="Five Faces of Darkness, Part 2"
|production code=#700-87
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|animation studio=[[AKOM]]
|airdate=[[September 2]], 1986
|written by=[[Flint Dille]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}

'''As a near death experience on Chaar allows Rodimus Prime to discover who kidnapped the Autobots, Cyclonus and Scourge head to rescue Galvatron...only to find that something is very wrong with their leader.'''

:''Japanese title:'' 蘇る新破壊大帝 (''Yomigaeru Shin Hakai Taitei'', "The Revived New Emperor of Destruction")
:''German title:'' "'''Die fünf Gesichter der Finsternis, Teil 2'''" ("The Five Faces of Darkness, Part 2")

==Synopsis==
[[Image:FFOD2 Rodimus Grimlock asteroid ship.jpg|left|200px|thumb|If he dead, me Grimlock eat him.]]

On [[Chaar]], the [[Decepticon]]s have discovered the snooping [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]] and [[Grimlock (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Grimlock]]. However, the Decepticons cannot muster enough energy to power their weapons, so they opt to beat the two [[Autobot]]s to death. They overwhelm Rodimus and Grimlock, but scatter at the sight of a meteor...which turns out to be a [[Skuxxoid]] ship commandeered by [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] and [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]]. They grab Rodimus and Grimlock, but Rodimus is non-responsive. [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] allows them to leave, as he has more pressing matters...such as finding [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]].

[[Image:FFOD2 Quintesson court.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Who left that camera on?!]]

On [[Quintessa]], the [[Quintesson]]s are interrogating [[Kup (G1)|Kup]], who is Cybertron's [[Chief of Security]]. They seem to know the true answers to their questions, even though he lies. They learn that [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] is militarily secure, but that Kup is worried about [[Earth]]'s security. [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] and [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] are surprised that the Quintessons seem to know so much, but the Quintessons end their discussion by trying their hand at interrogating Spike.

Elsewhere, Springer sets the Skuxxoid ship down. A badly injured Rodimus is mumbling Springer's name and that of the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]], and Arcee believes that Rodimus is naming Springer as the new [[Prime (rank)|Autobot leader]]. Suddenly, Rodimus's [[Spark|life force]] disappears. Arcee assumes the worst, but Grimlock points out that the Matrix didn't appear, so he is still alive. As for Rodimus Prime's life force, it's going on a very trippy (yet poorly animated) journey through the Matrix, seeing [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]], [[It|a skull-like thing]], a few robots... and the Quintessons. Coming back online, Rodimus realizes that it was the Quintessons who kidnapped the others, not the Decepticons.

On Quintessa, Spike, Magnus, and Kup overpower their guards, taking a Quintesson judge named [[Deliberata]] hostage. When they confront the court, however, the Quintessons merely sentence him to die in the [[Sharkticon (G1)|Sharkticon]] tanks as well. The pit opens, plunging Spike and the Autobots into the pit along with Deliberata. The side of the pit opens, allowing the other Quintessons to watch. They like to watch.

[[Image:FFOD2 Scourge rescuing Galvatron.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Everyone out of the pool!]]

Heading to [[Thrull]], Cyclonus sends [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] to pull Galvatron from the plasma pool. Cyclonus and the [[Sweep]]s greet their leader, only to discover that he has been driven insane by the plasma baths. Galvatron immediately proceeds to lay the smackdown on his would-be rescuers, but Scourge, who speaks crazy, manages to talk him down. Galvatron declares that they have an empire to regain, and they depart, but not before Galvatron destroys Thrull.

[[Image:FFOD2 Sharkticon pit.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Sharkticon infested custard.]]

On Quintessa, as the Sharkticons begin to swarm in, Spike asks why they're being executed, and the Quintessons say that Spike is guilty of associating with the Autobots, who are guilty of theft. Magnus assumes that they are talking about the Decepticons, but the Quintessons point out that the Autobots inhabit Cybertron. Above, the Skuxxoid ship flies through the sky, only to be destroyed by the Quintessons' defense systems. However, the Autobots were not on board, instead arriving in Springer's [[Alternate mode|copter mode]]. The Quintesson tribunal flees Grimlock's would-be assault, while Springer pulls the others out of the Sharkticon tank. The [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]] arrive with their [[Autobot Fleet|escape ship]]. However, the Quintessons, obsessed with destroying the Matrix, detonate a [[core bomb]] on Quintessa. Safely in the distance, they watch their homeworld explode.

[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 3|To be continued...]]

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]] (1)
*[[Grimlock (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Grimlock]] (2)
*[[Springer (G1)|Springer]] (13)
*[[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (14)
*[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] (18)
*[[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (19)
*[[Silverbolt (G1)| Silverbolt]] (24)
*[[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (25)
*[[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (26)
*[[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (27)
*[[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]] (28)
* Optimus Prime (G1) (Inside matrix)

|c2=
*[[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] (3)
*[[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] (4)
*[[Dead End (G1)|Dead End]] (5)
*[[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]] (6)
*[[Breakdown (G1)|Breakdown]] (7)
*[[Wildrider (G1)|Wildrider]] (8)
*[[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] (9)
*[[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] (10)
*[[Motormaster (G1)|Motormaster]] (11)
*[[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (12)
*[[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] (15)
*[[Sweep|Sweeps]] (16)
*[[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] (23)

|c3=
*[[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (20)

|c4=
*[[Quintesson]]s (17)
*[[Deliberata]] (21)
*[[Sharkticon (G1)|Sharkticons]] (22)
}}

== Quotes ==
"It just don't pack the wallop it used to!" 
"Yeah, because we're out of energy, dummy!"
:—'''Vortex''' and '''Swindle''' exposit for the audience.

"You are the Autobot Kup. You are Cybertron's chief of security." 
"Naw, my name's Teaspoon! And I'm Cybertron's chief dishwasher." 
:—The '''Quintessons''' interrogate '''Kup'''. They apparently lack a sense of humor.

'''Ultra Magnus''': Where are you taking us? 
'''Quintesson''': To your judgement. 
'''Kup''': Right. We're gonna get a fair trial, and then they're gonna kill us.
:—Kup already knows how the Quintesson's justice system works.

"Alright, Quintessons, you have a choice. Release us, or I turn your buddy here into bluey juice!"
:—'''Spike'''

"Pay us no mind. We just...like to watch.
:—The '''Quintessons''' creepily enjoy Sharkticons attacking Ultra Magnus, Kup and Spike.

"Mighty Galvatron, I have learned your lesson! I now know not only that you are the leader, but also why." 
"Such insight is rare! Watch out for this one, Cyclonus. One day, he might take your place."
:—'''Scourge''' and '''Galvatron''' speak crazy.

"An asteroid?" 
"Yeah. So? I've seen thousands of 'em." 
"About to land on your head?" 
"I gotta admit that's new."
:—'''Ultra Magnus''' and '''Kup'''

==Notes==
===Animation or technical glitches===
[[Image:Bigrumle.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Awww, little Rumble's all grown up!]]
* Apparently, AKOM ''never'' got any model sheet updates. Older character models used in the episode include:
** Grimlock, who has his early, flattened robot head design (not seen since Season 1!)
** Soundwave, who has a white backpack instead of blue (it was just barely visible in one or two shots in "[[The Core]]".)
* Rodimus Prime gets a new voice... or more correctly, an ''old'' one! Actor [[Ted Schwartz]] had been originally cast as Rodimus and recorded several episodes, but was then replaced by [[Dick Gautier]], who dubbed over all his lines for the finished, broadcast episodes. The "previously on" segment in this episode, however, is compiled using the original Schwartz audio! A single Schwartz-spoken line can also be heard in [[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 3|the next episode]].
** Gautier himself continues to voice Rodimus within the actual episode, though he lacks the super-bass modulation he had in Part 1.
* Rodimus also has a new gun! He toted a red gun in Part 1; here his weapon is light gray.
* Grimlock's dino mouth doesn't move for his "Me Grimlock no hurt" line.
* While walking with his fellow Decepticons, [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] is as tall as [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]. He should be barely half as tall. Breakdown should also be a head or so shorter. The mid-section of his left arm mostly disappears for a few frames as Grimlock shoots him.
* The Decepticon advance during Rodimus's "en masse" line contains all sorts of strangeness. "Rumble" has a totally redesigned chest, "Soundwave" has two windows like Optimus Prime as well as a face instead of a [[mouthplate]], and "Breakdown" has a new chest and a Dead End-like head. A mangled Wildrider is also half visible at the screen's edge. That, or AKOM for some reason drew a bunch of [[generic]]s, but colored them like the actual characters. ("Rumble" also briefly has the square panels on his shins flicker from yellow to white and back for a second.)
* Someone forgot that Onslaught was beat to hell at the end of last episode, battered and with a broken backpack gun. He's totally intact here. For that matter, ''none'' of the Deceptions are in the sorry physical state we saw them in last episode; their damage is never seen again.
* The claws that pick up Rodimus and Grimlock are shown emerging from a circular hatch. A few shots later, they're shown to be permanently attached to the outside of the ship.
* Cyclonus's jet windows aren't colored:
** As he turns from firing on the departing Rodimus on Chaar.
** As Galvatron bashes him away for the first time on Thrull.
** As Galvatron advises him to "Watch out for this one".
* The energon cubes are glowing in the whitish-yellowish style seen in very early episodes of Season 1, rather than the pink that was seen throughout Season 2 as well as in the previous episode.
* Kickback is standing with Dragstrip as Cyclonus prepares to leave Chaar. He's supposed to be dead.
* Four Sweeps fly off with Cyclonus, even though seven were in the shot immediately prior.
* The floatation beam of the head Quintesson judge is off-center.
* When Kup sasses the Quintessons by referring to himself as 'Cybertron's chief dishwasher', observe the Quintesson on the throne (the one closest to the screen). One of the faces is mouthing Kup, word for word! This seems to persist for the rest of the scene.
* During the "answer he suppresses" line, the Quintesson's faces all slide around on their bulb together. The animators probably meant this to be expressive, but it's really not clear that they should be able to move around at all.
* Magnus is in prison, but he's still got his shoulder missiles. Shouldn't he be disarmed? Shouldn't he have ''used'' them? ''For once?!?''
* Even ''after'' being savagely beaten by the Decepticons to the point of death, Rodimus' character model shows absolutely no signs of damage. This is even more unusual when you consider the ''extremely'' damaged condition of the Decepticons earlier in the episode.
* Arcee's lower helmet segment is colored the same rose pink as her face as she monitor's Rodimus's life force. It should be the same white as the rest of her helmet.
* Rodimus's spoiler centerpiece is yellow instead of orange as he sits up after his vision.
* Arcee's nose is missing its outlines in several shots on the asteroid. It's visible only by its shading.
* As Grimlock remembers rescuing Rodimus on Quintessa, his head is drawn too small (looking more like a lizard head than a T. Rex head).
* When Rodimus confirms that Grimlock saved his life on Quintessa, his helmet is drawn very...oddly.
* Weird technicality - When Kup is saying his lines ending with the words "Rush 'em and pray", his "ears" are bouncing up and down.
* In the previous episode, when [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] first learns of Galvatron's location, the lava pool where Galvatron was submerged appeared in a small crater. When Cyclonus actually does find Galvatron, the location not only seem different, but the crater has gotten larger as well. Finally, when [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] pulls Galvatron out, the lava pool is the size of a small lake.

[[Image:Springerfivefacescopter.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Lucky that Springer has a twenty-foot-high blade shaft.]]
* Is Magnus ''supposed'' to have little eyeballs drawn in the white circles on his waist? 'Cause they make it look like he has a cartoon face on his pelvis.
* Kup is drawn delivering Magnus's line "You're confusing us with Decepticons."
* The line "Carry out the executions" is shown, via cross-fade, to be delivered by two different Quint faces, even though it's spoken by a single voice.
* Judging by how the Autobots (and Sharkticons) are standing, the Sharkticon pool is maybe 3 feet deep.
* As the Sharkticons move in, Kup is shown bashing two of them. The shot changes, and the two Sharkticons are both gone, with a new one now moving in from a distance.
* Arcee's first shot makes its laser sound effect before its fired.
* The spatial physics of Springer carrying the other three Autobots is pretty much physically impossible.
* As Kup says to keep fighting, both he and the Sharkticon facing him are doing some kind of funk hoedown dance, but neither is actually fighting the other.
* Arcee's legs are colored gray throughout the rescue, when they're supposed to be white.
* During the "as they die" line, the Egyptian-looking Quintesson in the center of the shot has a gray forehead, instead of blue.
* Silverbolt is drawn [[scale|so huge]] in jet mode that the Autobots climb aboard him like humans boarding an actual SST. Now ''that'' is [[Size changing|mass shifting]]. Why did they even need a shuttle?

===Continuity errors===
* Grimlock and Rodimus's blasts have absolutely no effect on the Decepticons, despite them already being heavily damaged, low on fuel, and being fired upon from point blank range.
* Rodimus, you may not ''like'' being stomped ''en masse'', but that hardly makes your under-energized, weaponless attackers "cowards".
* Seriously, Grimlock? One of the biggest, baddest Autobots, subdued by a horde of half-dead Decepticons? What the hell? What happened to his fire breath, at least?
* After the Autobots retreat, Cyclonus just throws his gun away!
* Wait a minute. The Quintessons? The ''Quintessons''? You mean those guys who when we last saw them were seconds away from being massacred by their rebellious Sharkticon subjects? How are they not all dead?!
* Before his life force temporarily enters the Matrix, Rodimus says "My time in the light is short..." Arcee claims that's what Optimus Prime said when he was dying, but this never happened in the film. It ''did'' happen, however, in an early draft of the movie's script (dated to April 1985); to be precise, Prime said "My time in the light has ended..."
* Death-by-Sharkticon was pretty much instantaneous in ''The Transformers: The Movie''. Here, the Sharkticons just stand around staring at their quarry while everybody gabs on and on.
* Kup's question "Why do I feel like I've seen this before?" may speak to some faulty memory chips, since he ''has'' seen this ''exact same thing'' before, just a few weeks or months prior. If he's just being rhetorical, it's an odd choice of phrasing.
* The Quintesson that was sentenced along with Spike, Kup and Ultra Magnus vanishes after they take the plunge, at least until Rodimus makes an attempt to rescue them, where he is once again seen with them.
* Galvatron's claim that he is "more powerful than ever" is pretty questionable, considering that he is never again shown atomizing anybody like he did to Starscream. Then again, pretty much ''everything'' he claims is pretty questionable. He is, no kidding, fruitcake flapjacks ''crazy''.
* Broadside makes his bizarre "debut" in this episode, as his jet mode character model is used as the Autobots' rescue ship. It's not ''really'' him, though, as the ship is destroyed in the next episode. He would make an even more screwed up second debut in "[[The Killing Jar]]", serving as a ''Decepticon ship'', complete with a correctly-voiced speaking part.
* Silverbolt orders Slingshot to pull the others out, but it's Silverbolt who lands and carries them away.
* Fireflight was never given explicit orders to leave the ship, but is shown returning to it. Silverbolt, who ''did'' leave the ship, is ''not'' shown returning.

===Real-world references===
* ''[[Star Wars (film)|Star Wars]]'' sound effects:
** The Sweeps take off from Chaar, and later from Thrull (to escape Galvatron's onslaught) with the sound of the ''Millennium Falcon''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s engine burst noise (most likely flying past cam before landing on Yavin IV.)
** As Galvatron takes off from Thrull, a second Star Wars effect plays: this time the sound of the [[Death Star]]'s combined superlaser beam streaking towards Alderaan. The ''Millennium Falcon'' effect is recycled as Cyclonus and company follow their leader.
* The laser sound effect as the Autobot ship opens fire on the Quint gun emplacement is the same one used by the alien death rays in the original ''[[The War of the Worlds]]'' movie.<ref>[http://zobovor.tripod.com/five_faces_of_darkness_part_2_bloopers.html Zobovor's Bloopers list for "Five Faces of Darkness Part 2"]</ref>

===Other notes===
* After all the shadowy mystery surrounding the Quintessons' identity last episode, there's absolutely no drama to the reveal in this episode. We get an establishing shot of Quintessa, and then cut to the Quintessons interrogating Kup as if we were picking up from a commercial break or something.
* Despite "Five Faces of Darkness"'s reputation for horrific art, there are some decent moments here and there: the closeup of Vortex and Swindle; the Sharkticon fleeing from the exploding cannon.
* Galvatron takes a ''long time'' to transform to and from cannon mode when he leaves Thrull. The transformation speed returns to normal afterward. This is never explained.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;VHS
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 1990 — ''The Transformers'' — Five Faces of Darkness ([[Family Home Entertainment]])
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 1990 — ''The Transformers'' — Five Faces of Darkness (Family Home Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1999 — ''The Transformers: 2010'' ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2001 — ''The Transformers: 2010'' — DVD Box (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2002 — ''Transformers'' — Five Faces of Darkness: Parts 1-5 ([[Maverick Entertainment|Sony Wonder]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2003 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 3 Part 1 ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2003 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 3 Part 1: Vol. 1 (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Season 3 and Season 4 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Collection 4: Series 3.1 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2009 — ''Transformers'' — Season's Three & Four {{sic}} (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2010 — ''The Transformers'' — Seasons Three & Four: 25th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory)

==References==
<references/>

==External links==
*[http://cybertronchronicle.freewebspace.com/cartoon-dossier/synopses/five_faces_of_darkness_part_2.html Dossier at the Cybertron Chronicle]

[[Category:Generation 1 episodes]]

Five Faces of Darkness, Part 2

2011-08-26T13:42:09Z

Pcnkgcdk:

{{episode
|series=G1toon
|ep=67
|series2=2010
|ep2=2
|prev2=Five Faces of Darkness, Part 1
|next2=Five Faces of Darkness, Part 3
|image=FFOD2 Galvatron sparks.JPG
|caption=Only Galvatron can see the Energon Fairies
|title="Five Faces of Darkness, Part 2"
|production code=#700-87
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|animation studio=[[AKOM]]
|airdate=[[September 2]], 1986
|written by=[[Flint Dille]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}

'''As a near death experience on Chaar allows Rodimus Prime to discover who kidnapped the Autobots, Cyclonus and Scourge head to rescue Galvatron...only to find that something is very wrong with their leader.'''

:''Japanese title:'' 蘇る新破壊大帝 (''Yomigaeru Shin Hakai Taitei'', "The Revived New Emperor of Destruction")
:''German title:'' "'''Die fünf Gesichter der Finsternis, Teil 2'''" ("The Five Faces of Darkness, Part 2")

==Synopsis==
[[Image:FFOD2 Rodimus Grimlock asteroid ship.jpg|left|200px|thumb|If he dead, me Grimlock eat him.]]

On [[Chaar]], the [[Decepticon]]s have discovered the snooping [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]] and [[Grimlock (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Grimlock]]. However, the Decepticons cannot muster enough energy to power their weapons, so they opt to beat the two [[Autobot]]s to death. They overwhelm Rodimus and Grimlock, but scatter at the sight of a meteor...which turns out to be a [[Skuxxoid]] ship commandeered by [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] and [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]]. They grab Rodimus and Grimlock, but Rodimus is non-responsive. [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] allows them to leave, as he has more pressing matters...such as finding [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]].

[[Image:FFOD2 Quintesson court.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Who left that camera on?!]]

On [[Quintessa]], the [[Quintesson]]s are interrogating [[Kup (G1)|Kup]], who is Cybertron's [[Chief of Security]]. They seem to know the true answers to their questions, even though he lies. They learn that [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] is militarily secure, but that Kup is worried about [[Earth]]'s security. [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] and [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] are surprised that the Quintessons seem to know so much, but the Quintessons end their discussion by trying their hand at interrogating Spike.

Elsewhere, Springer sets the Skuxxoid ship down. A badly injured Rodimus is mumbling Springer's name and that of the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]], and Arcee believes that Rodimus is naming Springer as the new [[Prime (rank)|Autobot leader]]. Suddenly, Rodimus's [[Spark|life force]] disappears. Arcee assumes the worst, but Grimlock points out that the Matrix didn't appear, so he is still alive. As for Rodimus Prime's life force, it's going on a very trippy (yet poorly animated) journey through the Matrix, seeing [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]], [[It|a skull-like thing]], a few robots... and the Quintessons. Coming back online, Rodimus realizes that it was the Quintessons who kidnapped the others, not the Decepticons.

On Quintessa, Spike, Magnus, and Kup overpower their guards, taking a Quintesson judge named [[Deliberata]] hostage. When they confront the court, however, the Quintessons merely sentence him to die in the [[Sharkticon (G1)|Sharkticon]] tanks as well. The pit opens, plunging Spike and the Autobots into the pit along with Deliberata. The side of the pit opens, allowing the other Quintessons to watch. They like to watch.

[[Image:FFOD2 Scourge rescuing Galvatron.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Everyone out of the pool!]]

Heading to [[Thrull]], Cyclonus sends [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] to pull Galvatron from the plasma pool. Cyclonus and the [[Sweep]]s greet their leader, only to discover that he has been driven insane by the plasma baths. Galvatron immediately proceeds to lay the smackdown on his would-be rescuers, but Scourge, who speaks crazy, manages to talk him down. Galvatron declares that they have an empire to regain, and they depart, but not before Galvatron destroys Thrull.

[[Image:FFOD2 Sharkticon pit.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Sharkticon infested custard.]]

On Quintessa, as the Sharkticons begin to swarm in, Spike asks why they're being executed, and the Quintessons say that Spike is guilty of associating with the Autobots, who are guilty of theft. Magnus assumes that they are talking about the Decepticons, but the Quintessons point out that the Autobots inhabit Cybertron. Above, the Skuxxoid ship flies through the sky, only to be destroyed by the Quintessons' defense systems. However, the Autobots were not on board, instead arriving in Springer's [[Alternate mode|copter mode]]. The Quintesson tribunal flees Grimlock's would-be assault, while Springer pulls the others out of the Sharkticon tank. The [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]] arrive with their [[Autobot Fleet|escape ship]]. However, the Quintessons, obsessed with destroying the Matrix, detonate a [[core bomb]] on Quintessa. Safely in the distance, they watch their homeworld explode.

[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 3|To be continued...]]

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]] (1)
*[[Grimlock (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Grimlock]] (2)
*[[Springer (G1)|Springer]] (13)
*[[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (14)
*[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] (18)
*[[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (19)
*[[Silverbolt (G1)| Silverbolt]] (24)
*[[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (25)
*[[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (26)
*[[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (27)
*[[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]] (28)
*[[Optimus Prime (G1) (Inside matrix)

|c2=
*[[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] (3)
*[[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] (4)
*[[Dead End (G1)|Dead End]] (5)
*[[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]] (6)
*[[Breakdown (G1)|Breakdown]] (7)
*[[Wildrider (G1)|Wildrider]] (8)
*[[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] (9)
*[[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] (10)
*[[Motormaster (G1)|Motormaster]] (11)
*[[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (12)
*[[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] (15)
*[[Sweep|Sweeps]] (16)
*[[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] (23)

|c3=
*[[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (20)

|c4=
*[[Quintesson]]s (17)
*[[Deliberata]] (21)
*[[Sharkticon (G1)|Sharkticons]] (22)
}}

== Quotes ==
"It just don't pack the wallop it used to!" 
"Yeah, because we're out of energy, dummy!"
:—'''Vortex''' and '''Swindle''' exposit for the audience.

"You are the Autobot Kup. You are Cybertron's chief of security." 
"Naw, my name's Teaspoon! And I'm Cybertron's chief dishwasher." 
:—The '''Quintessons''' interrogate '''Kup'''. They apparently lack a sense of humor.

'''Ultra Magnus''': Where are you taking us? 
'''Quintesson''': To your judgement. 
'''Kup''': Right. We're gonna get a fair trial, and then they're gonna kill us.
:—Kup already knows how the Quintesson's justice system works.

"Alright, Quintessons, you have a choice. Release us, or I turn your buddy here into bluey juice!"
:—'''Spike'''

"Pay us no mind. We just...like to watch.
:—The '''Quintessons''' creepily enjoy Sharkticons attacking Ultra Magnus, Kup and Spike.

"Mighty Galvatron, I have learned your lesson! I now know not only that you are the leader, but also why." 
"Such insight is rare! Watch out for this one, Cyclonus. One day, he might take your place."
:—'''Scourge''' and '''Galvatron''' speak crazy.

"An asteroid?" 
"Yeah. So? I've seen thousands of 'em." 
"About to land on your head?" 
"I gotta admit that's new."
:—'''Ultra Magnus''' and '''Kup'''

==Notes==
===Animation or technical glitches===
[[Image:Bigrumle.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Awww, little Rumble's all grown up!]]
* Apparently, AKOM ''never'' got any model sheet updates. Older character models used in the episode include:
** Grimlock, who has his early, flattened robot head design (not seen since Season 1!)
** Soundwave, who has a white backpack instead of blue (it was just barely visible in one or two shots in "[[The Core]]".)
* Rodimus Prime gets a new voice... or more correctly, an ''old'' one! Actor [[Ted Schwartz]] had been originally cast as Rodimus and recorded several episodes, but was then replaced by [[Dick Gautier]], who dubbed over all his lines for the finished, broadcast episodes. The "previously on" segment in this episode, however, is compiled using the original Schwartz audio! A single Schwartz-spoken line can also be heard in [[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 3|the next episode]].
** Gautier himself continues to voice Rodimus within the actual episode, though he lacks the super-bass modulation he had in Part 1.
* Rodimus also has a new gun! He toted a red gun in Part 1; here his weapon is light gray.
* Grimlock's dino mouth doesn't move for his "Me Grimlock no hurt" line.
* While walking with his fellow Decepticons, [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] is as tall as [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]. He should be barely half as tall. Breakdown should also be a head or so shorter. The mid-section of his left arm mostly disappears for a few frames as Grimlock shoots him.
* The Decepticon advance during Rodimus's "en masse" line contains all sorts of strangeness. "Rumble" has a totally redesigned chest, "Soundwave" has two windows like Optimus Prime as well as a face instead of a [[mouthplate]], and "Breakdown" has a new chest and a Dead End-like head. A mangled Wildrider is also half visible at the screen's edge. That, or AKOM for some reason drew a bunch of [[generic]]s, but colored them like the actual characters. ("Rumble" also briefly has the square panels on his shins flicker from yellow to white and back for a second.)
* Someone forgot that Onslaught was beat to hell at the end of last episode, battered and with a broken backpack gun. He's totally intact here. For that matter, ''none'' of the Deceptions are in the sorry physical state we saw them in last episode; their damage is never seen again.
* The claws that pick up Rodimus and Grimlock are shown emerging from a circular hatch. A few shots later, they're shown to be permanently attached to the outside of the ship.
* Cyclonus's jet windows aren't colored:
** As he turns from firing on the departing Rodimus on Chaar.
** As Galvatron bashes him away for the first time on Thrull.
** As Galvatron advises him to "Watch out for this one".
* The energon cubes are glowing in the whitish-yellowish style seen in very early episodes of Season 1, rather than the pink that was seen throughout Season 2 as well as in the previous episode.
* Kickback is standing with Dragstrip as Cyclonus prepares to leave Chaar. He's supposed to be dead.
* Four Sweeps fly off with Cyclonus, even though seven were in the shot immediately prior.
* The floatation beam of the head Quintesson judge is off-center.
* When Kup sasses the Quintessons by referring to himself as 'Cybertron's chief dishwasher', observe the Quintesson on the throne (the one closest to the screen). One of the faces is mouthing Kup, word for word! This seems to persist for the rest of the scene.
* During the "answer he suppresses" line, the Quintesson's faces all slide around on their bulb together. The animators probably meant this to be expressive, but it's really not clear that they should be able to move around at all.
* Magnus is in prison, but he's still got his shoulder missiles. Shouldn't he be disarmed? Shouldn't he have ''used'' them? ''For once?!?''
* Even ''after'' being savagely beaten by the Decepticons to the point of death, Rodimus' character model shows absolutely no signs of damage. This is even more unusual when you consider the ''extremely'' damaged condition of the Decepticons earlier in the episode.
* Arcee's lower helmet segment is colored the same rose pink as her face as she monitor's Rodimus's life force. It should be the same white as the rest of her helmet.
* Rodimus's spoiler centerpiece is yellow instead of orange as he sits up after his vision.
* Arcee's nose is missing its outlines in several shots on the asteroid. It's visible only by its shading.
* As Grimlock remembers rescuing Rodimus on Quintessa, his head is drawn too small (looking more like a lizard head than a T. Rex head).
* When Rodimus confirms that Grimlock saved his life on Quintessa, his helmet is drawn very...oddly.
* Weird technicality - When Kup is saying his lines ending with the words "Rush 'em and pray", his "ears" are bouncing up and down.
* In the previous episode, when [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] first learns of Galvatron's location, the lava pool where Galvatron was submerged appeared in a small crater. When Cyclonus actually does find Galvatron, the location not only seem different, but the crater has gotten larger as well. Finally, when [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] pulls Galvatron out, the lava pool is the size of a small lake.

[[Image:Springerfivefacescopter.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Lucky that Springer has a twenty-foot-high blade shaft.]]
* Is Magnus ''supposed'' to have little eyeballs drawn in the white circles on his waist? 'Cause they make it look like he has a cartoon face on his pelvis.
* Kup is drawn delivering Magnus's line "You're confusing us with Decepticons."
* The line "Carry out the executions" is shown, via cross-fade, to be delivered by two different Quint faces, even though it's spoken by a single voice.
* Judging by how the Autobots (and Sharkticons) are standing, the Sharkticon pool is maybe 3 feet deep.
* As the Sharkticons move in, Kup is shown bashing two of them. The shot changes, and the two Sharkticons are both gone, with a new one now moving in from a distance.
* Arcee's first shot makes its laser sound effect before its fired.
* The spatial physics of Springer carrying the other three Autobots is pretty much physically impossible.
* As Kup says to keep fighting, both he and the Sharkticon facing him are doing some kind of funk hoedown dance, but neither is actually fighting the other.
* Arcee's legs are colored gray throughout the rescue, when they're supposed to be white.
* During the "as they die" line, the Egyptian-looking Quintesson in the center of the shot has a gray forehead, instead of blue.
* Silverbolt is drawn [[scale|so huge]] in jet mode that the Autobots climb aboard him like humans boarding an actual SST. Now ''that'' is [[Size changing|mass shifting]]. Why did they even need a shuttle?

===Continuity errors===
* Grimlock and Rodimus's blasts have absolutely no effect on the Decepticons, despite them already being heavily damaged, low on fuel, and being fired upon from point blank range.
* Rodimus, you may not ''like'' being stomped ''en masse'', but that hardly makes your under-energized, weaponless attackers "cowards".
* Seriously, Grimlock? One of the biggest, baddest Autobots, subdued by a horde of half-dead Decepticons? What the hell? What happened to his fire breath, at least?
* After the Autobots retreat, Cyclonus just throws his gun away!
* Wait a minute. The Quintessons? The ''Quintessons''? You mean those guys who when we last saw them were seconds away from being massacred by their rebellious Sharkticon subjects? How are they not all dead?!
* Before his life force temporarily enters the Matrix, Rodimus says "My time in the light is short..." Arcee claims that's what Optimus Prime said when he was dying, but this never happened in the film. It ''did'' happen, however, in an early draft of the movie's script (dated to April 1985); to be precise, Prime said "My time in the light has ended..."
* Death-by-Sharkticon was pretty much instantaneous in ''The Transformers: The Movie''. Here, the Sharkticons just stand around staring at their quarry while everybody gabs on and on.
* Kup's question "Why do I feel like I've seen this before?" may speak to some faulty memory chips, since he ''has'' seen this ''exact same thing'' before, just a few weeks or months prior. If he's just being rhetorical, it's an odd choice of phrasing.
* The Quintesson that was sentenced along with Spike, Kup and Ultra Magnus vanishes after they take the plunge, at least until Rodimus makes an attempt to rescue them, where he is once again seen with them.
* Galvatron's claim that he is "more powerful than ever" is pretty questionable, considering that he is never again shown atomizing anybody like he did to Starscream. Then again, pretty much ''everything'' he claims is pretty questionable. He is, no kidding, fruitcake flapjacks ''crazy''.
* Broadside makes his bizarre "debut" in this episode, as his jet mode character model is used as the Autobots' rescue ship. It's not ''really'' him, though, as the ship is destroyed in the next episode. He would make an even more screwed up second debut in "[[The Killing Jar]]", serving as a ''Decepticon ship'', complete with a correctly-voiced speaking part.
* Silverbolt orders Slingshot to pull the others out, but it's Silverbolt who lands and carries them away.
* Fireflight was never given explicit orders to leave the ship, but is shown returning to it. Silverbolt, who ''did'' leave the ship, is ''not'' shown returning.

===Real-world references===
* ''[[Star Wars (film)|Star Wars]]'' sound effects:
** The Sweeps take off from Chaar, and later from Thrull (to escape Galvatron's onslaught) with the sound of the ''Millennium Falcon''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s engine burst noise (most likely flying past cam before landing on Yavin IV.)
** As Galvatron takes off from Thrull, a second Star Wars effect plays: this time the sound of the [[Death Star]]'s combined superlaser beam streaking towards Alderaan. The ''Millennium Falcon'' effect is recycled as Cyclonus and company follow their leader.
* The laser sound effect as the Autobot ship opens fire on the Quint gun emplacement is the same one used by the alien death rays in the original ''[[The War of the Worlds]]'' movie.<ref>[http://zobovor.tripod.com/five_faces_of_darkness_part_2_bloopers.html Zobovor's Bloopers list for "Five Faces of Darkness Part 2"]</ref>

===Other notes===
* After all the shadowy mystery surrounding the Quintessons' identity last episode, there's absolutely no drama to the reveal in this episode. We get an establishing shot of Quintessa, and then cut to the Quintessons interrogating Kup as if we were picking up from a commercial break or something.
* Despite "Five Faces of Darkness"'s reputation for horrific art, there are some decent moments here and there: the closeup of Vortex and Swindle; the Sharkticon fleeing from the exploding cannon.
* Galvatron takes a ''long time'' to transform to and from cannon mode when he leaves Thrull. The transformation speed returns to normal afterward. This is never explained.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;VHS
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 1990 — ''The Transformers'' — Five Faces of Darkness ([[Family Home Entertainment]])
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 1990 — ''The Transformers'' — Five Faces of Darkness (Family Home Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1999 — ''The Transformers: 2010'' ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2001 — ''The Transformers: 2010'' — DVD Box (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2002 — ''Transformers'' — Five Faces of Darkness: Parts 1-5 ([[Maverick Entertainment|Sony Wonder]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2003 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 3 Part 1 ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2003 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 3 Part 1: Vol. 1 (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Season 3 and Season 4 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Collection 4: Series 3.1 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2009 — ''Transformers'' — Season's Three & Four {{sic}} (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2010 — ''The Transformers'' — Seasons Three & Four: 25th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory)

==References==
<references/>

==External links==
*[http://cybertronchronicle.freewebspace.com/cartoon-dossier/synopses/five_faces_of_darkness_part_2.html Dossier at the Cybertron Chronicle]

[[Category:Generation 1 episodes]]

Optimus Prime (RID)

2011-08-23T01:05:59Z

Pcnkgcdk:

{{factions|autobot |hofsilver}}}}
{{disambig3|Optimus Prime}}
:''Optimus Prime is the [[Autobot]] leader from the [[Robots in Disguise (franchise)|Robots in Disguise]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:RIDPrime02.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Ironically, filled with [[Burning justice|blazing justice.]] ]]
'''Optimus Prime''' is a stern and serious commander, devoted to protecting freedom and innocent life. He has seen the galactic path of conquest and destruction already burned by [[Megatron (RID)|Megatron]] and swears it will not include [[Earth]]. Optimus Prime often finds himself in the role of "straight man" to the more comic stylings of the other Autobots and [[Predacon (RID)|Predacons]], and tends to treat their humorous exaggerations or personality quirks as statements of straightforward fact. His subordinates view him as a great leader, if stubborn and much too prone to long speeches. Optimus Prime's greatest weakness is his sense of nobility. If an adversary claims to have had a change of heart and discovered inner goodness, Prime will fall for it every single time. But once he finds out he's been had, they'd better watch out!

==Fiction==
===''Robots in Disguise'' cartoon===
:''Voice actor:'' [[Neil Kaplan]] (English), [[Satoshi Hashimoto]] (Japanese), [[Guilherme Briggs]] (Portuguese), [[Gerardo Reyero]] (Latin American Spanish)
[[Image:BattleProtocol Prime gun.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Firearms are the right of all sentient beings.]]
Optimus Prime was created, along with [[Ultra Magnus (RID)|Ultra Magnus]], by [[Alpha Trion (RID)|Alpha Trion]] during the [[Golden Age]]. The two of them were raised together, and thus, saw each other as brothers. However, this relationship was torn apart after the Cybertron Civil Wars, whereupon the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]] chose Optimus Prime to command the Autobots in stopping the [[Predacon (RID)|Predacon]] leader [[Megatron (RID)|Megatron]] from ravaging the universe in his quest for energy. Ultra Magnus left Cybertron that same day, bitter and spiteful of his brother. {{storylink|Ultra Magnus: Forced Fusion!}}

Prime soon struck up command on [[Earth]], where he took the form of a fire truck. Operating out of a secret base in [[Metro City]], he and his fellow Autobots were more than ready to face Megatron and his Predacons. The conflict began when Megatron appeared in New York, attempting to kidnap the famous scientist [[Kenneth Onishi|Doctor Kenneth Onishi]]. Optimus struck up a friendship with Onishi's son, [[Koji Onishi|Koji]], and despite not being able to save the boy's father, vowed that he would help rescue him. {{storylink|Battle Protocol!}}

[[Image:BulletTrainRescue Prime through window.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Armour Digivolve!]]
Optimus later took Koji to see the Autobot base, during a series of Predacon attacks on trucks around Metro City. New Predacon [[Sky-Byte (RID)|Sky-Byte]] turned out to be after a terrorist device hidden in a sports car. With the bomb on the verge of exploding, Optimus converted to his [[Super Mode|battle mode]] and used his power stream to blast the shark and the bomb safely into space. {{storylink|An Explosive Situation}} The launch of the [[Linear RFG]] bullet train was also a clear target for the Predacons, and Optimus ordered the Autobots to provide an escort. Sure enough, the Predacons destroyed a bridge ahead, and Optimus aided [[Team Bullet Train]] in stopping the train before disaster occurred. {{storylink|Bullet Train to the Rescue}}

Together with the [[Autobot Brothers]], Prime prevented the Predacons from stealing the [[Plutonium Energy Generator]] stored in a Metro City warehouse. When the generator was later moved, the Predacons made a second attempt, but Prime was content to sit back and watch the [[Spy Changer]]s go to work in foiling the quartet. {{storylink|Spychangers to the Rescue}}

{{quote|Your imagery is derivative. It lacks semiotic cohesion. And the hapless foe is you!|Optimus Prime, critiquing Sky-Byte's poetry|"The Hunt for Black Pyramid"}}

A distress call from Koji sent Optimus and the Autobot Brothers to a location in the sea near Metro City. Using the [[Global Space Bridge]], the Autobots made the leap out to a stricken ship, which was under attack by the Predacons. Prime fought with Sky-Byte, discovering that the shark had the edge while underwater. Once the ship was righted, the Autobot Leader quickly beat the Predacon into a withdrawal with his Fist of Steel. {{storylink|The Hunt for Black Pyramid}} Prime suspected that an attack by Megatron and the Predacon trio in the middle of Metro City was a diversion, and this was confirmed by an SOS from Side Burn, who was exploring [[Payuma ruins|Native American ruins]]. After Prime had traveled to the ruins and fought off Sky-Byte, the Autobots found a [[Doctor Onishi's microchip|microchip]], hidden there by Doctor Onishi. {{storylink|The Secret of the Ruins}}

[[Image:SecretWeaponD5 TAI Prime thoughtful.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Something about the upper chassis design?]]
Following Side Burn's kidnapping by the Predacons, Prime responded to the ransom request... by turning up alone and promptly being captured himself. Megatron began beating on the bound Optimus, until [[Prowl (RID)|Prowl]], [[X-Brawn]] and the Spy Changers mounted a stealth rescue. The prisoners freed, the Autobots turned on the Predacons and chased them off. {{storylink|Sideburn's Obsession}} When Koji reported a Predacon attack on the [[Grandpa|D-512 Stanwich Steamer]], Optimus coordinated the Autobot defense from home base. After [[Midnight Express (RID)|Midnight Express]]'s last minute rescue of the train, Optimus held Koji up so that the boy could film the steam engine. {{storylink|Secret Weapon: D-5}}

[[Image:SkidZsChoice Prime dynamic stock.jpg|thumb|right|200px|I hope you like this shot, cos you'll be seeing it a lot!]]
Optimus was not very worried about Mirage having apparently defected, stating that he was an Autobot and a member of the elite Spy Changers. {{storylink|Mirage's Betrayal}} Optimus has the Autobots all enter the [[International Grand Prix]] in order to try and find [[Skid-Z (RID)|Skid-Z]], a recently arrived Autobot who had scanned a racing car and become possessed by the urge to compete in races. Unfortunately the Predacons decided to enter the race too, and partway through, Optimus and the Autobot Brothers found themselves holding up a huge rock dropped onto them by Megatron. Fortunately Skid-Z himself turned up and destroyed the rock, allowing them to chase Megatron off. {{storylink|Skid Z's Choice}}

Another new recruit, [[Tow-Line (RID)|Tow-Line]] went rogue and began towing away random Autobots to an unspecified location. Prowl and Optimus finally managed to track Tow-Line down, correcting the damage to his circuits done by the Predacons, and rescuing their fellows. A rousing battle ensued, with inevitable defeat for the Predacons. {{storylink|Tow-Line Goes Haywire}} A Predacon investigation of the [[Cave of the Dragon]] lead Optimus and Midnight Express to dress up as a huge statue to chase them off. The ruse worked, and Optimus discovered that the cave did contain something of interest — an [[O-Part]]! {{storylink|The Ultimate Robot Warrior}} Concerned at recent Predacon activity, Optimus called the Autobots back to HQ to review previous missions. {{storylink|Hope for the Future}}

[[Image:TheDecepticons Prime missile launchers.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Why my shoulders hurt?]]
Lead by Doctor Onishi's microchip to [[Castle Peak]], Prime and the Autobot Brothers found the Predacons digging up a derelict Autobot spacecraft. The ship contained six [[protoform]]s, which Megatron promptly stole, whisking them away to nearby [[McKinley Army Base]] to be formatted into [[Decepticon]]s. During the fight at the base, [[Kelly (RID)|Kelly]] attempted to flee in a fuel tanker, and was saved by Optimus from plunging into a crater. The last protoform scanned Optimus and the tanker at the same time, resulting in [[Scourge (RID)|Scourge]], a Decepticon resembling a twisted clone of the Autobot leader. {{storylink|The Decepticons}} The Decepticons' first mission was to attack [[Sherman Dam]], during which Optimus managed to stop them from detonating explosives planted on the dam, and clashed with Scourge. {{storylink|Commandos}}

[[Image:Volcano Prime battle mode stock.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
More activity lead Prime and the Spy Changers to [[Montrose Island]], where they clashed with the Decepticons and Sky-Byte. With the volcano in danger of erupting, Optimus froze the crater with his Blizzard Storm attack, but was occupied fighting Scourge to do any more. He pinned [[Ruination (RID)|Ruination]], allowing the Spy Changer to use their [[Inferno Blast]] to divert the erupting lava to the sea. {{storylink|Volcano}} The Decepticons had [[Movor]] fired into space to try and locate the Autobot base from orbit, by observing Autobot movements. Optimus had Side Burn go to [[Pier 7B]], where an ambush had been arranged. Prime's battle with Scourge was largely won by the fact that Movor kept firing on the pair from space and accidentally hitting Scourge. {{storylink|Attack from Outer Space}}

Prime hoped that Scourge and his fellow Decepticons would one day be restored to their true Autobot selves, and in fact at one point [[Mega-Octane]] met with Optimus Prime, claiming that the Decepticons wanted to defect. Just as Optimus was about to show the Decepticons to the Autobot base, Sky-Byte attacked. Scourge's strike at the Predacon would have incurred a human casualty, had Optimus not deflected the sword blow with his [[Flying Fist]], and the trick was revealed. Enraged with disappointment, Optimus [[Burning justice|glowed with power]] as he fought off the Decepticons. {{storylink|The Test (episode)|The Test}}

[[Image:WedgesShortFuse Prime Blizzard Blast.jpg|thumb|left|200px|This image conjures some uncomfortable imagery...]]
Optimus took part in countering a series of attacks on power plants, {{storylink|The Fish Test}} and arrived in [[Antarctica]] in time to help the [[Build Team]] defeat the Decepticon and Predacon forces. {{storylink|Wedge's Short Fuse}} He also helped the Build Team reach the space bridge computer after the Decepticons sabotaged it. During the subsequent battle in the Arctic, he was content to let [[Landfill (RID)|Landfill]] face Megatron alone, as a matter of honor. {{storylink|Landfill (episode)|Landfill}}

Sky-Byte and his Predacons attacked the [[CGA Tower]] during its opening, apparently holding the humans inside hostage and demanding that Optimus Prime bring him the O-Parts. Optimus headed for the scene, but was cut off by the Decepticons. His haste resulted in him speedily dispatching Ruination with one shot from his Blaze Blaster, before hurrying to the tower. After a further battle with Scourge, Optimus helped stabilise the tower so that Landfill could create a new foundation for it. {{storylink|Sky-Byte Saves the Day}} After the Decepticons began a vendetta against the Build Team, Optimus ordered the Build Team not to get involved — but they did anyway, battling Ruination underground. Prime reached the location after Landfill had defeated the Decepticons in a huge fireball, and extinguished the four Autobots. {{storylink|A Test of Metal}}

[[Image:Forced Fusion Optimusbattlestation.jpg|thumb|200px|right|]]
Matters escalated when Ultra Magnus appeared on Earth, making his desire to take the Matrix from Optimus Prime known to his "brother". Optimus confronted Magnus, inviting the Autobot to join his team, but Magnus refused and challenged Prime to a duel. {{storylink|Ultra Magnus (episode)|Ultra Magnus}} Optimus refused to fight Magnus, and was thus mercilessly fired upon, until [[Side Burn (RID)|Side Burn]], [[Prowl (RID)|Prowl]], and [[X-Brawn]] arrived to carry him away. Prime took refuge on a deserted island, but the Decepticons, Megatron, and Magnus all tracked him there. In the midst of the battle, Magnus forcibly activated their ability to combine into [[Omega Prime]], intending to use it to drain Prime of his energy so he could take the Matrix, but Optimus managed to take control and use their combination to stop the Decepticons. {{storylink|Ultra Magnus: Forced Fusion!}}

Optimus took time out to review footage of the Autobots' recent missions. {{storylink|Lessons of the Past}} After the Decepticons captured the Autobot Brothers, Optimus confronted them, but was unable to fight back under threat of the brothers being killed. Despite being pounded on by the Decepticons, Optimus was fit enough to combine with Ultra Magnus once the three brothers were freed. {{storylink|The Two Faces of Ultra Magnus}} Optimus came to the Autobot Brothers' rescue himself when they experienced an odd power drain during battle. He fought Ruination and Scourge alone until Ultra Magnus arrived to lend a hand. {{storylink|Power to Burn!}}

[[Image:KojiGetsHisWish Optimus firing at Scourge.jpg|thumb|200px|left]]
During the search for some ruins under Metro City, Optimus Prime monitored things from base. He joined his men when they found [[Fortress Maximus (RID)|Fortress Maximus]] hidden in the ruins, and helped fight the Decepticons off. {{storylink|Fortress Maximus (episode)|Fortress Maximus}} While the Build Team concealed Fortress Maximus, Optimus kept Scourge busy, fighting the Decepticon beneath the city. {{storylink|Koji Gets His Wish}} He turned up in the [[Sahara|Sahara Desert]] after the rest of the Autobots had collected all of the O-Parts, in time to fight off Megatron. {{storylink|A Friendly Contest}}

[[Image:MaximusEmerges Optimus and Magnus.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Christian side-hug.]]
Combined into an orb, the O-Parts lead Optimus and the Autobot Brothers back to the Sahara, and a pyramid located in a cavern beneath the sands. There they battled with Megatron and the Decepticons over the [[Orb of Sigma]]. Once again, Omega Prime was formed in order to battle Megatron, and at the end of the battle, only the Autobot was still standing. {{storylink|Peril from the Past}} Though the Autobots gained the location of [[Cerebros (RID)|Cerebros]], the key to activating Fortress Maximus, Cerebros was snatched from their grasp by the Decepticons. Optimus lead his men in attempted to protect the titan, but Scourge managed to succeed. Fortress Maximus proved impossible to control, and began rampaging across the city. The return of Megatron, in a few form as Galvatron, complicated the battle, and even Optimus and Ultra Magnus combined into Omega Prime were unable to stop the devastation, until Koji managed to command Maximus to stop. {{storylink|Maximus Emerges}}

[[Image:SurpriseAttack Optimus carries Cerebros.jpg|thumb|200px|left]]
Clashes with the Decepticons and Fortress Maximus in a desert {{storylink|The Human Element}} and a forest were largely unsuccessful, but internal ructions in the Decepticon ranks eventually resulted in the Autobots managing to gain control of Cerebros. {{storylink|Mistaken Identity}} When the Decepticons discovered the location of the Autobot base and mounted an attack, Optimus took Cerebros, leading the Decepticons through Metro City to an ambush in a more remote location. Prime and Magnus combined into Omega Prime once again, but found they were ineffective against the power of Galvatron's ''[[Megastar]]'', and were forced to sit back and watch as Fortress Maximus dealt with the battle station. {{storylink|Surprise Attack!}}

Galvatron had survived the confrontation and began draining power from Fortress Maximus. When Omega Prime confronted him, he responded by using [[cyber-bat]]s to enslave and threaten the world's children. Prime was forced to call a retreat through the space bridge, which gave Galvatron the opportunity to trap them there and flood the tunnel with lava. As Optimus was overcome by the lava, Koji's words inspired him to escape and confront Galvatron once more. {{storylink|Galvatron's Revenge}}

Though Galvatron seized the rest of the Autobots in an energy field, Optimus escaped and combined with Ultra Magnus. Omega Prime challenged Galvatron one-on-one at the Earth's core. He was seemingly no match for the Decepticon leader, until Fortress Maximus sent his power, which energized the Matrix, forming the giant weapon, the [[Matrix Blade]]. Galvatron was defeated, and with that, the Autobots' mission on Earth was finished, and Prime resolved to return to Cybertron—but not before "one last look around" with Koji and the rest of his team. {{storylink|The Final Battle (RID)|The Final Battle}}

===Ultra Magnus...to the Rescue?===
[[Image:UltraMagnustotheRescue Optimus Prime.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
With the other Autobots all engaged in other fights around the world, Optimus Prime alone was available to answer T-AI's battle protocol at an experimental nuclear generator in Arizona. His opening plan was to lure the Predacons and Decepticons away from the humans to battle them at a safe distance, but his wayward brother Ultra Magnus intervened, confronting the villains head on in the middle of the generator plant. As Prime chastised Magnus for his rash action, Scourge overheard and seized on the idea to threaten the humans if the Autobots didn't stand down. Despite his anger at Optimus, Ultra Magnus remembered his Autobot training and reluctantly laid down his weapon. At the proper moment, though, the brothers managed to attack a distracted Scourge and save the humans. The Predacons and Decepticons escaped with the generator, but the humans were safe. {{storylink|Ultra Magnus...to the Rescue?}}

===''Universe'' comic===
[[Image:TFUjailbreak.jpg|left|thumb|300px|Here I am, kept in this tiny room, forced to be kept merged to this dude who hates me.]]
After turning in Galvatron to the proper authorities, Optimus Prime enjoyed the time following by studying various lifeforms and their environments on other planets throughout the universe. During this vacation, his weapons systems were upgraded considerably.

However, his skills were inevitably needed once again on Earth when evil threatened the planet. He formed the [[Dimensional Patrol]] from the ranks of the Autobots who had stayed behind on Earth, as well as additional experts in transwarp technology, to defend the planet from those who would do it harm via the "temporal and spatial nexus" in Earth's proximity. Unfortunately, Optimus Prime, Ultra Magnus, and several members of the Dimensional Patrol were abducted by [[Unicron]]. Here they were to battle each other in the [[Cauldron]], where their energy would feed and repair the shattered body of the Chaos Bringer. {{storylink|The Official Transformers Collectors' Club Magazine issue 1}}

As Omega Prime, Prime and Magnus escaped this fate in a jail-break set into motion by [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] and [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]]. They left Unicron for their home universe via a portal created by [[Optimus Primal]] and [[Snarl (BM)|Snarl]], {{storylink|Escape (issue)|Escape}} but shortly thereafter they were once again called into service by [[Primus]]. {{storylink|Homecoming (issue)|Homecoming}}

{{note|It is unclear whether the change to a yellow color scheme accompanied the weapons systems upgrade or if these colors were visited upon him by the [[Unicron virus|corrupting energies]] of the [[Pit]]. Since his colors had returned to "normal" by the end of the Universe conflict (see below), the latter seems most likely.}}

===''Cybertron'' comic===
[[Image:OptimusPrimeRIDprimuschamber.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Prime picked this trick up from watching ''BASEketball.'']]

During the final battle with the [[Minion of Unicron|Minions of Unicron]] in the [[Pit]], Optimus Prime and Ultra Magnus (as Omega Prime) were fighting alongside the [[Child of Primus|Children of Primus]] when the corrupt pocket universe began to collapse around them. Omega Prime and the others fled through a dimensional portal, but the powerlinxed brothers were diverted by the former [[Mini-Con]] [[Over-Run (Armada)|Over-Run]] into another reality, just in time to stop [[Nemesis Prime (Universe 2003)|Nemesis Prime]] from unleashing the [[Dead Matrix]] inside the Spark Chamber of [[Primus]]. The evil clone was vanquished, and the brothers hooked up with [[Sentinel Maximus]] and his comrades as they attempted to fortify Cybertron against the [[Unicron Singularity]].

Working relatively behind the scenes while that reality's [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] and his crew searched for the [[Cyber Planet Key|Cyber Planet Keys]], Optimus Prime and his brother found themselves moderating an internal dispute among the Mini-Con colonies in Cybertron's debris field, and were engaged with a Cybertronian-sized version of [[Unicron]] himself when Primus first transformed due to an infusion of Cyber Key Power. Some months later, after the final battle with the Cyber Key empowered [[Megatron (Armada)|Galvatron]], Optimus Prime first met his local counterpart, and they exchanged information on their endeavors over the last few months. With the newly reformed Unicron on the loose after their last encounter, Optimus chose to join Ultra Magnus and Sentinel Maximus in hunting him down. The final fate of their mission, and whether the brothers ever returned to their home reality, remains to be seen. {{storylink|Balancing Act}}
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==Toys==
===Robots in Disguise===
[[Image:RID Optimus Prime toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|[[Burning Justice|BURNING JUSTICE]]]]
{{listen
|OpthimuthPrimeMaxthimithe.ogg
|OpthimuthPrimeMaxthimithe.ogg
|Sound Chip Sounds from RiD Optimus Prime. It's no "Hypergoldfish! GOLFBALL!", but at least he has a lisp...
|96 Kb
}}

*'''Optimus Prime''' (Super, 2000, 2001)
**''Japanese ID number'': '''C-001'''
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles

: ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime transforms into a Japanese Hino Brandlier fire truck. Harkening back to Generation 1 toys, he features chromed wheels with rubber tires. The forward section of his truck detaches to become his standard robot mode. His '[[trailer]]' can be reconfigured into a sort of battle station. The station can then be disassembled and attached around the robot to form his Battle Mode. His standard robot can combine with [[Ultra Magnus (RID)|Ultra Magnus]] to form [[Omega Prime]].

: The original [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] ''Car Robots'' release differs from the [[Hasbro]] version in that it has a darker, metallic-flake plastic, and has no Autobot symbols tampo-printed on the shoulder pads. Obviously, the voice clips used for the Japanese toy are also different, although the English clips are essentially translations of the Japanese ones (with the Hasbro toy incorrectly proclaiming that Optimus Prime's transformation into super mode uses the code-phrase "maximize"). Additionally, the Hasbro version has the unfortunate tendency for its rubber tires to split down its molding connection. Furthermore, Fire Convoy's missiles are of a different mold on the Japanese toy. The toy’s ladder features a trigger that flips all four of his missile launchers forward into firing position when pressed. On Fire Convoy, pressing this trigger causes all four missiles to immediately launch (if by "launch" you mean "be-flung-up-into-the-air-and-fall-to-the-ground-instantly") when they flip forward, whereas the Hasbro toy removes the auto-fire feature, allowing them to be launched one-at-a-time via individual triggers. Unchanged from the Takara release, the tires feature the name "FIRE CONVOY" instead of "OPTIMUS PRIME".

: By some bizarre twist of fate, the standard robot mode has four [[Mini-Con]] ports on his arms ''before'' they were used in ''[[Armada (toyline)|Armada]]''.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2001/Autobot/OptimusPrime/optimusprime.htm More information on Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''
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{{anchor|SuperBlack}}

*'''Black Super Fire Convoy ''' (Super, 2000/2001)
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles

: Also known as "Super Fire Convoy Black Version" and "Dark Super Fire Convoy", this [[black repaint]] of the Optimus Prime figure featured a golden chrome chest, and clear sirens. It was available only as a prize in several contests held by Takara: 15 units were available as prizes in a raffle held in [[TV Magazine]] in July; 400 were raffled off in a drawing that involved sending in coupons that came with the ''Car Robots'' DVDs (200 from October to December 2000, and 200 more from March to May 2001); and an undetermined amount were offered in a scratch-card contest also held by TV Magazine.

:This figure was also sold in a giftest with a black version of Ultra Magnus as "Black God Fire Convoy", noted below.
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{{anchor|SuperClear}}
*'''Clear Super Fire Convoy''' (Super, 2000)
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles

: Clear Super Fire Convoy is, as his name suggests, constructed primarily of translucent plastic, and like the Black Version of the figure, was only available as a contest prize. An unknown number of units were raffled off as part of the "Convoy Car Robots Campaign" between June and July 2000, while 15 were available at drawings held at Tokyo's Seibu Department Store between the 15th and 28th of August.

:This figure was also sold in a giftest with a translucent version of Ultra Magnus as "Clear God Fire Convoy", noted below.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2000/Cybertron/ClearSuperFireConvoy/superfireconvoy.htm More information on Clear Super Fire Convoy at TFU.info]''
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{{anchor|GodFireClear}}
*'''Black God Fire Convoy''' (Giftset, 2000)
:This two-figure giftset includes the Black Super Figure Convoy figure, plus a black version of the Ultra Magnus figure (itself exceptionally rare), who together combine to form Black God Fire Convoy. It was ''ludicrously'' limited in its availability, with the only ten units known to exist being offered as prizes in a scratch-card contest that TV Magazine run until early November 2000.
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{{anchor|GodFireClear}}
*'''Clear God Fire Convoy''' (Giftset, 2000)
**''Accessories'': Matrix Blade
:This two-figure giftset includes the Clear Super Figure Convoy figure, plus a clear version of the Ultra Magnus figure not available anywhere else, who together combine to form Clear God Fire Convoy. The set also included the Matrix Blade sword, which had previously been available only through various contests and raffles.

:The giftset was exclusive to Japanese [[Toys"R"Us]] stores. Released in November 2000, it was limited to 3000 pieces; reportedly, only 100 TRUs carried the set, and limited customers to one purchase on the day of release.
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{{anchor|SC}}

[[Image:Spychanger RIDPrime toy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Tiny BURNING JUSTICE]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (Basic, 2002)

: This is a smaller, simplified version of ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime made for the Spy Changer/Basic class in the ''Robots In Disguise'' toyline. It has no standard robot mode and parts do not detach. Oddly, all promotional images of this figure depicted it colored in ''orange''.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2002/Autobot/OptimusPrimeGobot/optimusprime.htm More information on Spychanger Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''

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===Universe===
[[Image:Universe2003toy-OptimusPrimeSuper.jpg|right|250px|thumb|LEMON-FLAVORED BURNING JUSTICE]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (Supreme, 2003)
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles

: A Sam's Club [[exclusive]], the ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'' release of ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime basically swapped out all of his red plastic for a yellow-orange color. He came packed in robot mode in an upright display package, which featured a sticker on the front with a hilariously mistransformed Omega Prime, advertising the toy's combining ability with the simultaneously-released, slightly-redecoed Sam's Club exclusive ''Universe'' release of ''Robots In Disguise'' Ultra Magnus.

: For some reason, the Autobot symbol on his chest in Battle Mode is left unpainted.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2003/Autobot/TFUOptimusPrime/optimusprime.htm More information on ''Universe'' Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''
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{{anchor|WMSC}}

[[Image:TFU03-toy OptimusWMSpychanger.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Tiny LEMON-FLAVORED BURNING JUSTICE with donut chaser]]
*'''Optimus Prime and Prowl''' (Basic, 2003)

: One of a half-dozen Wal-Mart exclusive ''Universe'' toys to hit in the span of a few short months in 2003, this version of Prime is a yellow [[redeco]] of the ''Robots in Disguise'' [[Spy Changer]] Prime (with an oddly-unpainted face), based on the Sam's Club version of the larger toy. He was only available in a Basic-pricepoint two-pack with [[Prowl (Spychanger)|Prowl]].

:This toy was later [[Repurposing|repurposed]] as an [[Optimus Prime (Universe Spychanger)|alternate universe version of Optimus Prime]] by the [[OTFCC 2004 Live-Action Script Reading]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2004/Autobot/TFUOptimusPrime/optimusprime.htm More information on ''Universe'' Spychanger Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''
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===Cybertron===
* '''Ultra Magnus & Optimus Prime''' (Multi-pack, 2005)
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles
{{note|''Cybertron'' comic Optimus Prime was [[repurposing|repurposed]] from [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys#PrimeMagnus2pack|Ultra Magnus & Optimus Prime]].}}
:This Costco exclusive is a redecoed Super ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' Optimus Prime toy. He was sold with [[Ultra Magnus (Cybertron)|Ultra Magnus]], a repackaged Super ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'' [[Ultra Magnus (RID)|Ultra Magnus]]. He transforms into a Japanese Hino Brandlier fire truck. Harkening back to Generation 1 toys, he features chromed wheels with rubber tires. The forward section of his truck detaches to become his standard robot mode. His 'trailer' can be reconfigured into a sort of battle station. The station can then be disassembled and attached around the robot to form his '''Battle Mode'''.

: The bio that accompanied this set indicates that these toys are new versions of the [[Unicron Trilogy]] characters.

:In Australia, this set was released as a Myer exclusive.
===Titanium Series===
[[Image:Titanium RIDPrime.jpg|right|200px|thumb|METAL BURNING JUSTICE]]
* '''Optimus Prime''' (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2006)
**''Accessories'': Display stand, nameplate

: ''[[Titanium Series]]'' Optimus is a six-inch tall [[die-cast]] metal and plastic version of ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime. In vehicle mode the ladder rotates at its base and the nozzles flip out of the end of the ladder, but the ladder cannot extend. As he is much simplified compared to the larger toy, the (largely hollow) front of the vehicle cannot separate and form the standard robot mode, nor can the rear of the vehicle form the battlestation. Instead, the entire fire truck transforms into a simplified version of the super robot Battle Mode.

: This mold was also used to make ''Titanium Series'' [[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Zone]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2007/Autobot/TitRIDOptimusPrime/optimusprime.htm More information on ''Titanium'' Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''
{{--}}

==Merchandise==
===Transformers DX===

[[Image:Rid_prime_kabayakit1.jpg|right|225px|thumb|Puny BURNING JUSTICE]]

*'''Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Accessories:'' Pistol
:As part of [[Kabaya]]'s ''[[Transformers DX]]'' line of [[candy toy]]s, Optimus Prime was one of three pre-assembled transforming figurines packaged with lemon candy. Capable of transforming into only the cab portion of his vehicle mode, Prime's robot mode could also be upgraded into his Super Mode by attaching several additional armor pieces (two boots, two gauntlets, two arm-cannons, two shoulder guards, a head, a chest piece and a ladder), some of which came packaged with Prime himself, and the rest of which were split between the other two figures in the line, [[Rapid Run (RID)|Rapid Run]] and [[Prowl (RID)|Prowl]].
{{-}}

===Transformers Gum===
[[Image:Rid_prime_kabayakit2.jpg|right|225px|thumb|[[Scale|Out of scale]] BURNING JUSTICE]]

*'''Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' 1
**''Accessories:'' Pistol
:Part of Kabaya's ''[[Transformers Gum]]'' range of candy toys this version of Prime is a diminutive non-transforming snap-together model kit packaged with a stick of gum. Split across two plastic sprues, the kit is made of metallic silver and translucent red pieces with some painted details, which must be cut off their sprues and assembled by the buyer.

*'''Super Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' 2
:Prime's Super Mode also got representation in ''Transformers Gum''. Just as with his standard ''Gum'' figure, this one is likewise non-transforming, silver and translucent red, and packaged with gum.
{{-}}

===Trans Kit===
[[Image:Rid_prime_kabayakit3.jpg|right|225px|thumb|White Chocolate, Blueberry, and Cherry (not pictured) BURNING JUSTICE]]

*'''Super Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' 1
:Another model kit of Prime was released by Kabaya as part of their ''[[Trans Kit]]'' range of candy toys. This non-transforming figure was cast entirely in one color of plastic, but was available in either grey, blue or red. It came packaged in a two-piece box with candy-coated chocolates.

*'''Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' 2
**''Accessories:'' Pistol
:Like his larger self, this version of Prime was also available in grey, blue and red plastic.
{{-}}

===KT Figure Collection===

* '''Ai-chan''' (2004)

[[Image:AI PVC.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Perverted BURNING JUSTICE]]
: This figurine was produced by [[KT Figure Collection]], and included in a set of four others. It is notable in that not only is this the only non-[[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] PVC in the entire set, but Ai-chan is portrayed bathing in a hot spring, and is thus completely nude, aside from her hat. A [[super deformed]] [[Optimus Prime (RID)|Super Fire Convoy]] is seen peeking over the side, and a miniature [[Sky-Byte (RID)|Gelshark]] bath toy is in Ai-chan's hands.

: Yes, it's creepy. And you may find her face is familiar, BECAUSE the figure is designed by [[Yūki Ōshima]], who did the [[Kiss Players (franchise)|creepiest thing]] in the [[Transformers brand|''Transformers'' brand]] ever.
{{-}}

===Robot Heroes===
* '''Optimus Prime''' / '''Megatron'''

[[Image:Robotheroesprimemegatron.jpg|right|300px|thumb|ADORABLE BURNING JUSTICE with [[Megatron (RID)|lazy madman]]]]
:Robot Heroes Optimus Prime is based on his "Battle mode" look, and is available with Megatron.

{{canceledtoy}}

{{--}}

==Notes==
* According to the first ''Car Robots'' toy catalog, Optimus and his Autobots are part of a "Dimensional Patrol" that followed the Predacons from another dimension. This seems to have been only vaguely alluded to in the Japanese version of the show—Fire Convoy proclaimed in the first episode that he would follow Gigatron wherever he went, "even if it's to the edge of the universe"—but does not seem to have played a large part of the main story, to the extent that the ''Robots in Disguise'' dub was able to omit it entirely. However, the [[3H]] supplemental materials for the ''Universe'' series re-established the idea, presenting the "Dimensional Patrol" as a post-cartoon organization.

* The first ''Car Robots'' catalog also stated that Fire Convoy and Gigatron were once "[[:Image:MangaYoungDeathyStarSaber.jpg|childhood friends]]" that became eternal rivals. We don't really have any idea how that was supposed to work.

* Fans in Japan joke that Optimus Prime is an Autobot [[Emperor of Destruction]] rather than an Autobot [[Supreme Commander]], due to his actions in the ''Car Robot'' anime.

* For this incarnation of Optimus, voice actor [[Neil Kaplan]] specifically impersonated the voice of the original [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]], [[Peter Cullen]]. ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime is one of the few Optimuses (two [[Optimus Prime (Animated)|as of 2008]]) whose English voice actor isn't Cullen or [[Garry Chalk]]. At conventions, Kaplan refers to himself as "the [[wikipedia:George_Lazenby|George Lazenby]] of Optimus Primes".<ref>This would presumably make [[David Kaye]] the [[wikipedia:Daniel_Craig|Daniel Craig]] of Optimus Primes.</ref>

* ''Cybertron'' "Multi-Pack" Optimus Prime's on-package [[bio]] seems to indicate he's ''Unicron Trilogy'' Optimus Prime. However, his (and Magnus') deco was later used in the [[Fun Publications]] ''Cybertron'' fan club magazine comic as ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime having traveled to the ''Unicron Trilogy'' universe.

* Optimus Prime's [[Super Mode]] chest resembles the chest of EnRyu from ''[[Brave|King of Braves GaoGaiGar]]'', another Takara series. EnRyu also transforms into a fire truck with a similarly positioned "ladder cannon".

*This is the first incarnation of Optimus not to be [[The many deaths of Optimus Prime|killed off]] at any point during his series. Possibly due to the fact that he is not intended to be [[Optimus Prime (disambiguation)|Optimus Prime]] in the original ''Car Robot'' series.

*Optimus was left out of the [[BotCon 2010]] [[Transformers Hall of Fame]] video tribute to Optimus Prime(s).

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Fire Convoy''' (ファイヤーコンボイ ''Faiyā Konboi'')

==Footnotes==
<references />

[[Category:Autobot leaders]]
[[Category:Combiners]]
[[Category:Costco exclusives]]
[[Category:Cybertron Autobots]]
[[Category:Dimension hoppers]]
[[Category:Matrix bearers]]
[[Category:Repurposed toys]]
[[Category:Robots in Disguise Autobots]]
[[Category:Sam's Club exclusives]]
[[Category:Spy Changers]]
[[Category:Titanium Series]]
[[Category:Universe (2008)]]
[[Category:Universe Autobots]]

Optimus Prime (RID)

2011-08-23T01:04:11Z

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{{factions|autobot}}
{{disambig3|Optimus Prime}}
:''Optimus Prime is the [[Autobot]] leader from the [[Robots in Disguise (franchise)|Robots in Disguise]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:RIDPrime02.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Ironically, filled with [[Burning justice|blazing justice.]] ]]
'''Optimus Prime''' is a stern and serious commander, devoted to protecting freedom and innocent life. He has seen the galactic path of conquest and destruction already burned by [[Megatron (RID)|Megatron]] and swears it will not include [[Earth]]. Optimus Prime often finds himself in the role of "straight man" to the more comic stylings of the other Autobots and [[Predacon (RID)|Predacons]], and tends to treat their humorous exaggerations or personality quirks as statements of straightforward fact. His subordinates view him as a great leader, if stubborn and much too prone to long speeches. Optimus Prime's greatest weakness is his sense of nobility. If an adversary claims to have had a change of heart and discovered inner goodness, Prime will fall for it every single time. But once he finds out he's been had, they'd better watch out!

==Fiction==
===''Robots in Disguise'' cartoon===
:''Voice actor:'' [[Neil Kaplan]] (English), [[Satoshi Hashimoto]] (Japanese), [[Guilherme Briggs]] (Portuguese), [[Gerardo Reyero]] (Latin American Spanish)
[[Image:BattleProtocol Prime gun.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Firearms are the right of all sentient beings.]]
Optimus Prime was created, along with [[Ultra Magnus (RID)|Ultra Magnus]], by [[Alpha Trion (RID)|Alpha Trion]] during the [[Golden Age]]. The two of them were raised together, and thus, saw each other as brothers. However, this relationship was torn apart after the Cybertron Civil Wars, whereupon the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]] chose Optimus Prime to command the Autobots in stopping the [[Predacon (RID)|Predacon]] leader [[Megatron (RID)|Megatron]] from ravaging the universe in his quest for energy. Ultra Magnus left Cybertron that same day, bitter and spiteful of his brother. {{storylink|Ultra Magnus: Forced Fusion!}}

Prime soon struck up command on [[Earth]], where he took the form of a fire truck. Operating out of a secret base in [[Metro City]], he and his fellow Autobots were more than ready to face Megatron and his Predacons. The conflict began when Megatron appeared in New York, attempting to kidnap the famous scientist [[Kenneth Onishi|Doctor Kenneth Onishi]]. Optimus struck up a friendship with Onishi's son, [[Koji Onishi|Koji]], and despite not being able to save the boy's father, vowed that he would help rescue him. {{storylink|Battle Protocol!}}

[[Image:BulletTrainRescue Prime through window.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Armour Digivolve!]]
Optimus later took Koji to see the Autobot base, during a series of Predacon attacks on trucks around Metro City. New Predacon [[Sky-Byte (RID)|Sky-Byte]] turned out to be after a terrorist device hidden in a sports car. With the bomb on the verge of exploding, Optimus converted to his [[Super Mode|battle mode]] and used his power stream to blast the shark and the bomb safely into space. {{storylink|An Explosive Situation}} The launch of the [[Linear RFG]] bullet train was also a clear target for the Predacons, and Optimus ordered the Autobots to provide an escort. Sure enough, the Predacons destroyed a bridge ahead, and Optimus aided [[Team Bullet Train]] in stopping the train before disaster occurred. {{storylink|Bullet Train to the Rescue}}

Together with the [[Autobot Brothers]], Prime prevented the Predacons from stealing the [[Plutonium Energy Generator]] stored in a Metro City warehouse. When the generator was later moved, the Predacons made a second attempt, but Prime was content to sit back and watch the [[Spy Changer]]s go to work in foiling the quartet. {{storylink|Spychangers to the Rescue}}

{{quote|Your imagery is derivative. It lacks semiotic cohesion. And the hapless foe is you!|Optimus Prime, critiquing Sky-Byte's poetry|"The Hunt for Black Pyramid"}}

A distress call from Koji sent Optimus and the Autobot Brothers to a location in the sea near Metro City. Using the [[Global Space Bridge]], the Autobots made the leap out to a stricken ship, which was under attack by the Predacons. Prime fought with Sky-Byte, discovering that the shark had the edge while underwater. Once the ship was righted, the Autobot Leader quickly beat the Predacon into a withdrawal with his Fist of Steel. {{storylink|The Hunt for Black Pyramid}} Prime suspected that an attack by Megatron and the Predacon trio in the middle of Metro City was a diversion, and this was confirmed by an SOS from Side Burn, who was exploring [[Payuma ruins|Native American ruins]]. After Prime had traveled to the ruins and fought off Sky-Byte, the Autobots found a [[Doctor Onishi's microchip|microchip]], hidden there by Doctor Onishi. {{storylink|The Secret of the Ruins}}

[[Image:SecretWeaponD5 TAI Prime thoughtful.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Something about the upper chassis design?]]
Following Side Burn's kidnapping by the Predacons, Prime responded to the ransom request... by turning up alone and promptly being captured himself. Megatron began beating on the bound Optimus, until [[Prowl (RID)|Prowl]], [[X-Brawn]] and the Spy Changers mounted a stealth rescue. The prisoners freed, the Autobots turned on the Predacons and chased them off. {{storylink|Sideburn's Obsession}} When Koji reported a Predacon attack on the [[Grandpa|D-512 Stanwich Steamer]], Optimus coordinated the Autobot defense from home base. After [[Midnight Express (RID)|Midnight Express]]'s last minute rescue of the train, Optimus held Koji up so that the boy could film the steam engine. {{storylink|Secret Weapon: D-5}}

[[Image:SkidZsChoice Prime dynamic stock.jpg|thumb|right|200px|I hope you like this shot, cos you'll be seeing it a lot!]]
Optimus was not very worried about Mirage having apparently defected, stating that he was an Autobot and a member of the elite Spy Changers. {{storylink|Mirage's Betrayal}} Optimus has the Autobots all enter the [[International Grand Prix]] in order to try and find [[Skid-Z (RID)|Skid-Z]], a recently arrived Autobot who had scanned a racing car and become possessed by the urge to compete in races. Unfortunately the Predacons decided to enter the race too, and partway through, Optimus and the Autobot Brothers found themselves holding up a huge rock dropped onto them by Megatron. Fortunately Skid-Z himself turned up and destroyed the rock, allowing them to chase Megatron off. {{storylink|Skid Z's Choice}}

Another new recruit, [[Tow-Line (RID)|Tow-Line]] went rogue and began towing away random Autobots to an unspecified location. Prowl and Optimus finally managed to track Tow-Line down, correcting the damage to his circuits done by the Predacons, and rescuing their fellows. A rousing battle ensued, with inevitable defeat for the Predacons. {{storylink|Tow-Line Goes Haywire}} A Predacon investigation of the [[Cave of the Dragon]] lead Optimus and Midnight Express to dress up as a huge statue to chase them off. The ruse worked, and Optimus discovered that the cave did contain something of interest — an [[O-Part]]! {{storylink|The Ultimate Robot Warrior}} Concerned at recent Predacon activity, Optimus called the Autobots back to HQ to review previous missions. {{storylink|Hope for the Future}}

[[Image:TheDecepticons Prime missile launchers.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Why my shoulders hurt?]]
Lead by Doctor Onishi's microchip to [[Castle Peak]], Prime and the Autobot Brothers found the Predacons digging up a derelict Autobot spacecraft. The ship contained six [[protoform]]s, which Megatron promptly stole, whisking them away to nearby [[McKinley Army Base]] to be formatted into [[Decepticon]]s. During the fight at the base, [[Kelly (RID)|Kelly]] attempted to flee in a fuel tanker, and was saved by Optimus from plunging into a crater. The last protoform scanned Optimus and the tanker at the same time, resulting in [[Scourge (RID)|Scourge]], a Decepticon resembling a twisted clone of the Autobot leader. {{storylink|The Decepticons}} The Decepticons' first mission was to attack [[Sherman Dam]], during which Optimus managed to stop them from detonating explosives planted on the dam, and clashed with Scourge. {{storylink|Commandos}}

[[Image:Volcano Prime battle mode stock.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
More activity lead Prime and the Spy Changers to [[Montrose Island]], where they clashed with the Decepticons and Sky-Byte. With the volcano in danger of erupting, Optimus froze the crater with his Blizzard Storm attack, but was occupied fighting Scourge to do any more. He pinned [[Ruination (RID)|Ruination]], allowing the Spy Changer to use their [[Inferno Blast]] to divert the erupting lava to the sea. {{storylink|Volcano}} The Decepticons had [[Movor]] fired into space to try and locate the Autobot base from orbit, by observing Autobot movements. Optimus had Side Burn go to [[Pier 7B]], where an ambush had been arranged. Prime's battle with Scourge was largely won by the fact that Movor kept firing on the pair from space and accidentally hitting Scourge. {{storylink|Attack from Outer Space}}

Prime hoped that Scourge and his fellow Decepticons would one day be restored to their true Autobot selves, and in fact at one point [[Mega-Octane]] met with Optimus Prime, claiming that the Decepticons wanted to defect. Just as Optimus was about to show the Decepticons to the Autobot base, Sky-Byte attacked. Scourge's strike at the Predacon would have incurred a human casualty, had Optimus not deflected the sword blow with his [[Flying Fist]], and the trick was revealed. Enraged with disappointment, Optimus [[Burning justice|glowed with power]] as he fought off the Decepticons. {{storylink|The Test (episode)|The Test}}

[[Image:WedgesShortFuse Prime Blizzard Blast.jpg|thumb|left|200px|This image conjures some uncomfortable imagery...]]
Optimus took part in countering a series of attacks on power plants, {{storylink|The Fish Test}} and arrived in [[Antarctica]] in time to help the [[Build Team]] defeat the Decepticon and Predacon forces. {{storylink|Wedge's Short Fuse}} He also helped the Build Team reach the space bridge computer after the Decepticons sabotaged it. During the subsequent battle in the Arctic, he was content to let [[Landfill (RID)|Landfill]] face Megatron alone, as a matter of honor. {{storylink|Landfill (episode)|Landfill}}

Sky-Byte and his Predacons attacked the [[CGA Tower]] during its opening, apparently holding the humans inside hostage and demanding that Optimus Prime bring him the O-Parts. Optimus headed for the scene, but was cut off by the Decepticons. His haste resulted in him speedily dispatching Ruination with one shot from his Blaze Blaster, before hurrying to the tower. After a further battle with Scourge, Optimus helped stabilise the tower so that Landfill could create a new foundation for it. {{storylink|Sky-Byte Saves the Day}} After the Decepticons began a vendetta against the Build Team, Optimus ordered the Build Team not to get involved — but they did anyway, battling Ruination underground. Prime reached the location after Landfill had defeated the Decepticons in a huge fireball, and extinguished the four Autobots. {{storylink|A Test of Metal}}

[[Image:Forced Fusion Optimusbattlestation.jpg|thumb|200px|right|]]
Matters escalated when Ultra Magnus appeared on Earth, making his desire to take the Matrix from Optimus Prime known to his "brother". Optimus confronted Magnus, inviting the Autobot to join his team, but Magnus refused and challenged Prime to a duel. {{storylink|Ultra Magnus (episode)|Ultra Magnus}} Optimus refused to fight Magnus, and was thus mercilessly fired upon, until [[Side Burn (RID)|Side Burn]], [[Prowl (RID)|Prowl]], and [[X-Brawn]] arrived to carry him away. Prime took refuge on a deserted island, but the Decepticons, Megatron, and Magnus all tracked him there. In the midst of the battle, Magnus forcibly activated their ability to combine into [[Omega Prime]], intending to use it to drain Prime of his energy so he could take the Matrix, but Optimus managed to take control and use their combination to stop the Decepticons. {{storylink|Ultra Magnus: Forced Fusion!}}

Optimus took time out to review footage of the Autobots' recent missions. {{storylink|Lessons of the Past}} After the Decepticons captured the Autobot Brothers, Optimus confronted them, but was unable to fight back under threat of the brothers being killed. Despite being pounded on by the Decepticons, Optimus was fit enough to combine with Ultra Magnus once the three brothers were freed. {{storylink|The Two Faces of Ultra Magnus}} Optimus came to the Autobot Brothers' rescue himself when they experienced an odd power drain during battle. He fought Ruination and Scourge alone until Ultra Magnus arrived to lend a hand. {{storylink|Power to Burn!}}

[[Image:KojiGetsHisWish Optimus firing at Scourge.jpg|thumb|200px|left]]
During the search for some ruins under Metro City, Optimus Prime monitored things from base. He joined his men when they found [[Fortress Maximus (RID)|Fortress Maximus]] hidden in the ruins, and helped fight the Decepticons off. {{storylink|Fortress Maximus (episode)|Fortress Maximus}} While the Build Team concealed Fortress Maximus, Optimus kept Scourge busy, fighting the Decepticon beneath the city. {{storylink|Koji Gets His Wish}} He turned up in the [[Sahara|Sahara Desert]] after the rest of the Autobots had collected all of the O-Parts, in time to fight off Megatron. {{storylink|A Friendly Contest}}

[[Image:MaximusEmerges Optimus and Magnus.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Christian side-hug.]]
Combined into an orb, the O-Parts lead Optimus and the Autobot Brothers back to the Sahara, and a pyramid located in a cavern beneath the sands. There they battled with Megatron and the Decepticons over the [[Orb of Sigma]]. Once again, Omega Prime was formed in order to battle Megatron, and at the end of the battle, only the Autobot was still standing. {{storylink|Peril from the Past}} Though the Autobots gained the location of [[Cerebros (RID)|Cerebros]], the key to activating Fortress Maximus, Cerebros was snatched from their grasp by the Decepticons. Optimus lead his men in attempted to protect the titan, but Scourge managed to succeed. Fortress Maximus proved impossible to control, and began rampaging across the city. The return of Megatron, in a few form as Galvatron, complicated the battle, and even Optimus and Ultra Magnus combined into Omega Prime were unable to stop the devastation, until Koji managed to command Maximus to stop. {{storylink|Maximus Emerges}}

[[Image:SurpriseAttack Optimus carries Cerebros.jpg|thumb|200px|left]]
Clashes with the Decepticons and Fortress Maximus in a desert {{storylink|The Human Element}} and a forest were largely unsuccessful, but internal ructions in the Decepticon ranks eventually resulted in the Autobots managing to gain control of Cerebros. {{storylink|Mistaken Identity}} When the Decepticons discovered the location of the Autobot base and mounted an attack, Optimus took Cerebros, leading the Decepticons through Metro City to an ambush in a more remote location. Prime and Magnus combined into Omega Prime once again, but found they were ineffective against the power of Galvatron's ''[[Megastar]]'', and were forced to sit back and watch as Fortress Maximus dealt with the battle station. {{storylink|Surprise Attack!}}

Galvatron had survived the confrontation and began draining power from Fortress Maximus. When Omega Prime confronted him, he responded by using [[cyber-bat]]s to enslave and threaten the world's children. Prime was forced to call a retreat through the space bridge, which gave Galvatron the opportunity to trap them there and flood the tunnel with lava. As Optimus was overcome by the lava, Koji's words inspired him to escape and confront Galvatron once more. {{storylink|Galvatron's Revenge}}

Though Galvatron seized the rest of the Autobots in an energy field, Optimus escaped and combined with Ultra Magnus. Omega Prime challenged Galvatron one-on-one at the Earth's core. He was seemingly no match for the Decepticon leader, until Fortress Maximus sent his power, which energized the Matrix, forming the giant weapon, the [[Matrix Blade]]. Galvatron was defeated, and with that, the Autobots' mission on Earth was finished, and Prime resolved to return to Cybertron—but not before "one last look around" with Koji and the rest of his team. {{storylink|The Final Battle (RID)|The Final Battle}}

===Ultra Magnus...to the Rescue?===
[[Image:UltraMagnustotheRescue Optimus Prime.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
With the other Autobots all engaged in other fights around the world, Optimus Prime alone was available to answer T-AI's battle protocol at an experimental nuclear generator in Arizona. His opening plan was to lure the Predacons and Decepticons away from the humans to battle them at a safe distance, but his wayward brother Ultra Magnus intervened, confronting the villains head on in the middle of the generator plant. As Prime chastised Magnus for his rash action, Scourge overheard and seized on the idea to threaten the humans if the Autobots didn't stand down. Despite his anger at Optimus, Ultra Magnus remembered his Autobot training and reluctantly laid down his weapon. At the proper moment, though, the brothers managed to attack a distracted Scourge and save the humans. The Predacons and Decepticons escaped with the generator, but the humans were safe. {{storylink|Ultra Magnus...to the Rescue?}}

===''Universe'' comic===
[[Image:TFUjailbreak.jpg|left|thumb|300px|Here I am, kept in this tiny room, forced to be kept merged to this dude who hates me.]]
After turning in Galvatron to the proper authorities, Optimus Prime enjoyed the time following by studying various lifeforms and their environments on other planets throughout the universe. During this vacation, his weapons systems were upgraded considerably.

However, his skills were inevitably needed once again on Earth when evil threatened the planet. He formed the [[Dimensional Patrol]] from the ranks of the Autobots who had stayed behind on Earth, as well as additional experts in transwarp technology, to defend the planet from those who would do it harm via the "temporal and spatial nexus" in Earth's proximity. Unfortunately, Optimus Prime, Ultra Magnus, and several members of the Dimensional Patrol were abducted by [[Unicron]]. Here they were to battle each other in the [[Cauldron]], where their energy would feed and repair the shattered body of the Chaos Bringer. {{storylink|The Official Transformers Collectors' Club Magazine issue 1}}

As Omega Prime, Prime and Magnus escaped this fate in a jail-break set into motion by [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] and [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]]. They left Unicron for their home universe via a portal created by [[Optimus Primal]] and [[Snarl (BM)|Snarl]], {{storylink|Escape (issue)|Escape}} but shortly thereafter they were once again called into service by [[Primus]]. {{storylink|Homecoming (issue)|Homecoming}}

{{note|It is unclear whether the change to a yellow color scheme accompanied the weapons systems upgrade or if these colors were visited upon him by the [[Unicron virus|corrupting energies]] of the [[Pit]]. Since his colors had returned to "normal" by the end of the Universe conflict (see below), the latter seems most likely.}}

===''Cybertron'' comic===
[[Image:OptimusPrimeRIDprimuschamber.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Prime picked this trick up from watching ''BASEketball.'']]

During the final battle with the [[Minion of Unicron|Minions of Unicron]] in the [[Pit]], Optimus Prime and Ultra Magnus (as Omega Prime) were fighting alongside the [[Child of Primus|Children of Primus]] when the corrupt pocket universe began to collapse around them. Omega Prime and the others fled through a dimensional portal, but the powerlinxed brothers were diverted by the former [[Mini-Con]] [[Over-Run (Armada)|Over-Run]] into another reality, just in time to stop [[Nemesis Prime (Universe 2003)|Nemesis Prime]] from unleashing the [[Dead Matrix]] inside the Spark Chamber of [[Primus]]. The evil clone was vanquished, and the brothers hooked up with [[Sentinel Maximus]] and his comrades as they attempted to fortify Cybertron against the [[Unicron Singularity]].

Working relatively behind the scenes while that reality's [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] and his crew searched for the [[Cyber Planet Key|Cyber Planet Keys]], Optimus Prime and his brother found themselves moderating an internal dispute among the Mini-Con colonies in Cybertron's debris field, and were engaged with a Cybertronian-sized version of [[Unicron]] himself when Primus first transformed due to an infusion of Cyber Key Power. Some months later, after the final battle with the Cyber Key empowered [[Megatron (Armada)|Galvatron]], Optimus Prime first met his local counterpart, and they exchanged information on their endeavors over the last few months. With the newly reformed Unicron on the loose after their last encounter, Optimus chose to join Ultra Magnus and Sentinel Maximus in hunting him down. The final fate of their mission, and whether the brothers ever returned to their home reality, remains to be seen. {{storylink|Balancing Act}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Robots in Disguise===
[[Image:RID Optimus Prime toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|[[Burning Justice|BURNING JUSTICE]]]]
{{listen
|OpthimuthPrimeMaxthimithe.ogg
|OpthimuthPrimeMaxthimithe.ogg
|Sound Chip Sounds from RiD Optimus Prime. It's no "Hypergoldfish! GOLFBALL!", but at least he has a lisp...
|96 Kb
}}

*'''Optimus Prime''' (Super, 2000, 2001)
**''Japanese ID number'': '''C-001'''
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles

: ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime transforms into a Japanese Hino Brandlier fire truck. Harkening back to Generation 1 toys, he features chromed wheels with rubber tires. The forward section of his truck detaches to become his standard robot mode. His '[[trailer]]' can be reconfigured into a sort of battle station. The station can then be disassembled and attached around the robot to form his Battle Mode. His standard robot can combine with [[Ultra Magnus (RID)|Ultra Magnus]] to form [[Omega Prime]].

: The original [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] ''Car Robots'' release differs from the [[Hasbro]] version in that it has a darker, metallic-flake plastic, and has no Autobot symbols tampo-printed on the shoulder pads. Obviously, the voice clips used for the Japanese toy are also different, although the English clips are essentially translations of the Japanese ones (with the Hasbro toy incorrectly proclaiming that Optimus Prime's transformation into super mode uses the code-phrase "maximize"). Additionally, the Hasbro version has the unfortunate tendency for its rubber tires to split down its molding connection. Furthermore, Fire Convoy's missiles are of a different mold on the Japanese toy. The toy’s ladder features a trigger that flips all four of his missile launchers forward into firing position when pressed. On Fire Convoy, pressing this trigger causes all four missiles to immediately launch (if by "launch" you mean "be-flung-up-into-the-air-and-fall-to-the-ground-instantly") when they flip forward, whereas the Hasbro toy removes the auto-fire feature, allowing them to be launched one-at-a-time via individual triggers. Unchanged from the Takara release, the tires feature the name "FIRE CONVOY" instead of "OPTIMUS PRIME".

: By some bizarre twist of fate, the standard robot mode has four [[Mini-Con]] ports on his arms ''before'' they were used in ''[[Armada (toyline)|Armada]]''.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2001/Autobot/OptimusPrime/optimusprime.htm More information on Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
{{anchor|SuperBlack}}

*'''Black Super Fire Convoy ''' (Super, 2000/2001)
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles

: Also known as "Super Fire Convoy Black Version" and "Dark Super Fire Convoy", this [[black repaint]] of the Optimus Prime figure featured a golden chrome chest, and clear sirens. It was available only as a prize in several contests held by Takara: 15 units were available as prizes in a raffle held in [[TV Magazine]] in July; 400 were raffled off in a drawing that involved sending in coupons that came with the ''Car Robots'' DVDs (200 from October to December 2000, and 200 more from March to May 2001); and an undetermined amount were offered in a scratch-card contest also held by TV Magazine.

:This figure was also sold in a giftest with a black version of Ultra Magnus as "Black God Fire Convoy", noted below.
{{-}}
{{anchor|SuperClear}}
*'''Clear Super Fire Convoy''' (Super, 2000)
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles

: Clear Super Fire Convoy is, as his name suggests, constructed primarily of translucent plastic, and like the Black Version of the figure, was only available as a contest prize. An unknown number of units were raffled off as part of the "Convoy Car Robots Campaign" between June and July 2000, while 15 were available at drawings held at Tokyo's Seibu Department Store between the 15th and 28th of August.

:This figure was also sold in a giftest with a translucent version of Ultra Magnus as "Clear God Fire Convoy", noted below.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2000/Cybertron/ClearSuperFireConvoy/superfireconvoy.htm More information on Clear Super Fire Convoy at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
{{anchor|GodFireClear}}
*'''Black God Fire Convoy''' (Giftset, 2000)
:This two-figure giftset includes the Black Super Figure Convoy figure, plus a black version of the Ultra Magnus figure (itself exceptionally rare), who together combine to form Black God Fire Convoy. It was ''ludicrously'' limited in its availability, with the only ten units known to exist being offered as prizes in a scratch-card contest that TV Magazine run until early November 2000.
{{-}}
{{anchor|GodFireClear}}
*'''Clear God Fire Convoy''' (Giftset, 2000)
**''Accessories'': Matrix Blade
:This two-figure giftset includes the Clear Super Figure Convoy figure, plus a clear version of the Ultra Magnus figure not available anywhere else, who together combine to form Clear God Fire Convoy. The set also included the Matrix Blade sword, which had previously been available only through various contests and raffles.

:The giftset was exclusive to Japanese [[Toys"R"Us]] stores. Released in November 2000, it was limited to 3000 pieces; reportedly, only 100 TRUs carried the set, and limited customers to one purchase on the day of release.
{{-}}
{{anchor|SC}}

[[Image:Spychanger RIDPrime toy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Tiny BURNING JUSTICE]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (Basic, 2002)

: This is a smaller, simplified version of ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime made for the Spy Changer/Basic class in the ''Robots In Disguise'' toyline. It has no standard robot mode and parts do not detach. Oddly, all promotional images of this figure depicted it colored in ''orange''.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2002/Autobot/OptimusPrimeGobot/optimusprime.htm More information on Spychanger Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''

{{-}}

===Universe===
[[Image:Universe2003toy-OptimusPrimeSuper.jpg|right|250px|thumb|LEMON-FLAVORED BURNING JUSTICE]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (Supreme, 2003)
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles

: A Sam's Club [[exclusive]], the ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'' release of ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime basically swapped out all of his red plastic for a yellow-orange color. He came packed in robot mode in an upright display package, which featured a sticker on the front with a hilariously mistransformed Omega Prime, advertising the toy's combining ability with the simultaneously-released, slightly-redecoed Sam's Club exclusive ''Universe'' release of ''Robots In Disguise'' Ultra Magnus.

: For some reason, the Autobot symbol on his chest in Battle Mode is left unpainted.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2003/Autobot/TFUOptimusPrime/optimusprime.htm More information on ''Universe'' Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
{{anchor|WMSC}}

[[Image:TFU03-toy OptimusWMSpychanger.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Tiny LEMON-FLAVORED BURNING JUSTICE with donut chaser]]
*'''Optimus Prime and Prowl''' (Basic, 2003)

: One of a half-dozen Wal-Mart exclusive ''Universe'' toys to hit in the span of a few short months in 2003, this version of Prime is a yellow [[redeco]] of the ''Robots in Disguise'' [[Spy Changer]] Prime (with an oddly-unpainted face), based on the Sam's Club version of the larger toy. He was only available in a Basic-pricepoint two-pack with [[Prowl (Spychanger)|Prowl]].

:This toy was later [[Repurposing|repurposed]] as an [[Optimus Prime (Universe Spychanger)|alternate universe version of Optimus Prime]] by the [[OTFCC 2004 Live-Action Script Reading]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2004/Autobot/TFUOptimusPrime/optimusprime.htm More information on ''Universe'' Spychanger Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
===Cybertron===
* '''Ultra Magnus & Optimus Prime''' (Multi-pack, 2005)
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles
{{note|''Cybertron'' comic Optimus Prime was [[repurposing|repurposed]] from [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys#PrimeMagnus2pack|Ultra Magnus & Optimus Prime]].}}
:This Costco exclusive is a redecoed Super ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' Optimus Prime toy. He was sold with [[Ultra Magnus (Cybertron)|Ultra Magnus]], a repackaged Super ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'' [[Ultra Magnus (RID)|Ultra Magnus]]. He transforms into a Japanese Hino Brandlier fire truck. Harkening back to Generation 1 toys, he features chromed wheels with rubber tires. The forward section of his truck detaches to become his standard robot mode. His 'trailer' can be reconfigured into a sort of battle station. The station can then be disassembled and attached around the robot to form his '''Battle Mode'''.

: The bio that accompanied this set indicates that these toys are new versions of the [[Unicron Trilogy]] characters.

:In Australia, this set was released as a Myer exclusive.
===Titanium Series===
[[Image:Titanium RIDPrime.jpg|right|200px|thumb|METAL BURNING JUSTICE]]
* '''Optimus Prime''' (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2006)
**''Accessories'': Display stand, nameplate

: ''[[Titanium Series]]'' Optimus is a six-inch tall [[die-cast]] metal and plastic version of ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime. In vehicle mode the ladder rotates at its base and the nozzles flip out of the end of the ladder, but the ladder cannot extend. As he is much simplified compared to the larger toy, the (largely hollow) front of the vehicle cannot separate and form the standard robot mode, nor can the rear of the vehicle form the battlestation. Instead, the entire fire truck transforms into a simplified version of the super robot Battle Mode.

: This mold was also used to make ''Titanium Series'' [[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Zone]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2007/Autobot/TitRIDOptimusPrime/optimusprime.htm More information on ''Titanium'' Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''
{{--}}

==Merchandise==
===Transformers DX===

[[Image:Rid_prime_kabayakit1.jpg|right|225px|thumb|Puny BURNING JUSTICE]]

*'''Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Accessories:'' Pistol
:As part of [[Kabaya]]'s ''[[Transformers DX]]'' line of [[candy toy]]s, Optimus Prime was one of three pre-assembled transforming figurines packaged with lemon candy. Capable of transforming into only the cab portion of his vehicle mode, Prime's robot mode could also be upgraded into his Super Mode by attaching several additional armor pieces (two boots, two gauntlets, two arm-cannons, two shoulder guards, a head, a chest piece and a ladder), some of which came packaged with Prime himself, and the rest of which were split between the other two figures in the line, [[Rapid Run (RID)|Rapid Run]] and [[Prowl (RID)|Prowl]].
{{-}}

===Transformers Gum===
[[Image:Rid_prime_kabayakit2.jpg|right|225px|thumb|[[Scale|Out of scale]] BURNING JUSTICE]]

*'''Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' 1
**''Accessories:'' Pistol
:Part of Kabaya's ''[[Transformers Gum]]'' range of candy toys this version of Prime is a diminutive non-transforming snap-together model kit packaged with a stick of gum. Split across two plastic sprues, the kit is made of metallic silver and translucent red pieces with some painted details, which must be cut off their sprues and assembled by the buyer.

*'''Super Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' 2
:Prime's Super Mode also got representation in ''Transformers Gum''. Just as with his standard ''Gum'' figure, this one is likewise non-transforming, silver and translucent red, and packaged with gum.
{{-}}

===Trans Kit===
[[Image:Rid_prime_kabayakit3.jpg|right|225px|thumb|White Chocolate, Blueberry, and Cherry (not pictured) BURNING JUSTICE]]

*'''Super Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' 1
:Another model kit of Prime was released by Kabaya as part of their ''[[Trans Kit]]'' range of candy toys. This non-transforming figure was cast entirely in one color of plastic, but was available in either grey, blue or red. It came packaged in a two-piece box with candy-coated chocolates.

*'''Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' 2
**''Accessories:'' Pistol
:Like his larger self, this version of Prime was also available in grey, blue and red plastic.
{{-}}

===KT Figure Collection===

* '''Ai-chan''' (2004)

[[Image:AI PVC.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Perverted BURNING JUSTICE]]
: This figurine was produced by [[KT Figure Collection]], and included in a set of four others. It is notable in that not only is this the only non-[[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] PVC in the entire set, but Ai-chan is portrayed bathing in a hot spring, and is thus completely nude, aside from her hat. A [[super deformed]] [[Optimus Prime (RID)|Super Fire Convoy]] is seen peeking over the side, and a miniature [[Sky-Byte (RID)|Gelshark]] bath toy is in Ai-chan's hands.

: Yes, it's creepy. And you may find her face is familiar, BECAUSE the figure is designed by [[Yūki Ōshima]], who did the [[Kiss Players (franchise)|creepiest thing]] in the [[Transformers brand|''Transformers'' brand]] ever.
{{-}}

===Robot Heroes===
* '''Optimus Prime''' / '''Megatron'''

[[Image:Robotheroesprimemegatron.jpg|right|300px|thumb|ADORABLE BURNING JUSTICE with [[Megatron (RID)|lazy madman]]]]
:Robot Heroes Optimus Prime is based on his "Battle mode" look, and is available with Megatron.

{{canceledtoy}}

{{--}}

==Notes==
* According to the first ''Car Robots'' toy catalog, Optimus and his Autobots are part of a "Dimensional Patrol" that followed the Predacons from another dimension. This seems to have been only vaguely alluded to in the Japanese version of the show—Fire Convoy proclaimed in the first episode that he would follow Gigatron wherever he went, "even if it's to the edge of the universe"—but does not seem to have played a large part of the main story, to the extent that the ''Robots in Disguise'' dub was able to omit it entirely. However, the [[3H]] supplemental materials for the ''Universe'' series re-established the idea, presenting the "Dimensional Patrol" as a post-cartoon organization.

* The first ''Car Robots'' catalog also stated that Fire Convoy and Gigatron were once "[[:Image:MangaYoungDeathyStarSaber.jpg|childhood friends]]" that became eternal rivals. We don't really have any idea how that was supposed to work.

* Fans in Japan joke that Optimus Prime is an Autobot [[Emperor of Destruction]] rather than an Autobot [[Supreme Commander]], due to his actions in the ''Car Robot'' anime.

* For this incarnation of Optimus, voice actor [[Neil Kaplan]] specifically impersonated the voice of the original [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]], [[Peter Cullen]]. ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime is one of the few Optimuses (two [[Optimus Prime (Animated)|as of 2008]]) whose English voice actor isn't Cullen or [[Garry Chalk]]. At conventions, Kaplan refers to himself as "the [[wikipedia:George_Lazenby|George Lazenby]] of Optimus Primes".<ref>This would presumably make [[David Kaye]] the [[wikipedia:Daniel_Craig|Daniel Craig]] of Optimus Primes.</ref>

* ''Cybertron'' "Multi-Pack" Optimus Prime's on-package [[bio]] seems to indicate he's ''Unicron Trilogy'' Optimus Prime. However, his (and Magnus') deco was later used in the [[Fun Publications]] ''Cybertron'' fan club magazine comic as ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime having traveled to the ''Unicron Trilogy'' universe.

* Optimus Prime's [[Super Mode]] chest resembles the chest of EnRyu from ''[[Brave|King of Braves GaoGaiGar]]'', another Takara series. EnRyu also transforms into a fire truck with a similarly positioned "ladder cannon".

*This is the first incarnation of Optimus not to be [[The many deaths of Optimus Prime|killed off]] at any point during his series. Possibly due to the fact that he is not intended to be [[Optimus Prime (disambiguation)|Optimus Prime]] in the original ''Car Robot'' series.

*Optimus was left out of the [[BotCon 2010]] [[Transformers Hall of Fame]] video tribute to Optimus Prime(s).

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Fire Convoy''' (ファイヤーコンボイ ''Faiyā Konboi'')

==Footnotes==
<references />

[[Category:Autobot leaders]]
[[Category:Combiners]]
[[Category:Costco exclusives]]
[[Category:Cybertron Autobots]]
[[Category:Dimension hoppers]]
[[Category:Matrix bearers]]
[[Category:Repurposed toys]]
[[Category:Robots in Disguise Autobots]]
[[Category:Sam's Club exclusives]]
[[Category:Spy Changers]]
[[Category:Titanium Series]]
[[Category:Universe (2008)]]
[[Category:Universe Autobots]]

Optimus Prime (RID)

2011-08-23T01:03:36Z

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{{factions|autobot (hofsilver)}}
{{disambig3|Optimus Prime}}
:''Optimus Prime is the [[Autobot]] leader from the [[Robots in Disguise (franchise)|Robots in Disguise]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:RIDPrime02.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Ironically, filled with [[Burning justice|blazing justice.]] ]]
'''Optimus Prime''' is a stern and serious commander, devoted to protecting freedom and innocent life. He has seen the galactic path of conquest and destruction already burned by [[Megatron (RID)|Megatron]] and swears it will not include [[Earth]]. Optimus Prime often finds himself in the role of "straight man" to the more comic stylings of the other Autobots and [[Predacon (RID)|Predacons]], and tends to treat their humorous exaggerations or personality quirks as statements of straightforward fact. His subordinates view him as a great leader, if stubborn and much too prone to long speeches. Optimus Prime's greatest weakness is his sense of nobility. If an adversary claims to have had a change of heart and discovered inner goodness, Prime will fall for it every single time. But once he finds out he's been had, they'd better watch out!

==Fiction==
===''Robots in Disguise'' cartoon===
:''Voice actor:'' [[Neil Kaplan]] (English), [[Satoshi Hashimoto]] (Japanese), [[Guilherme Briggs]] (Portuguese), [[Gerardo Reyero]] (Latin American Spanish)
[[Image:BattleProtocol Prime gun.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Firearms are the right of all sentient beings.]]
Optimus Prime was created, along with [[Ultra Magnus (RID)|Ultra Magnus]], by [[Alpha Trion (RID)|Alpha Trion]] during the [[Golden Age]]. The two of them were raised together, and thus, saw each other as brothers. However, this relationship was torn apart after the Cybertron Civil Wars, whereupon the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]] chose Optimus Prime to command the Autobots in stopping the [[Predacon (RID)|Predacon]] leader [[Megatron (RID)|Megatron]] from ravaging the universe in his quest for energy. Ultra Magnus left Cybertron that same day, bitter and spiteful of his brother. {{storylink|Ultra Magnus: Forced Fusion!}}

Prime soon struck up command on [[Earth]], where he took the form of a fire truck. Operating out of a secret base in [[Metro City]], he and his fellow Autobots were more than ready to face Megatron and his Predacons. The conflict began when Megatron appeared in New York, attempting to kidnap the famous scientist [[Kenneth Onishi|Doctor Kenneth Onishi]]. Optimus struck up a friendship with Onishi's son, [[Koji Onishi|Koji]], and despite not being able to save the boy's father, vowed that he would help rescue him. {{storylink|Battle Protocol!}}

[[Image:BulletTrainRescue Prime through window.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Armour Digivolve!]]
Optimus later took Koji to see the Autobot base, during a series of Predacon attacks on trucks around Metro City. New Predacon [[Sky-Byte (RID)|Sky-Byte]] turned out to be after a terrorist device hidden in a sports car. With the bomb on the verge of exploding, Optimus converted to his [[Super Mode|battle mode]] and used his power stream to blast the shark and the bomb safely into space. {{storylink|An Explosive Situation}} The launch of the [[Linear RFG]] bullet train was also a clear target for the Predacons, and Optimus ordered the Autobots to provide an escort. Sure enough, the Predacons destroyed a bridge ahead, and Optimus aided [[Team Bullet Train]] in stopping the train before disaster occurred. {{storylink|Bullet Train to the Rescue}}

Together with the [[Autobot Brothers]], Prime prevented the Predacons from stealing the [[Plutonium Energy Generator]] stored in a Metro City warehouse. When the generator was later moved, the Predacons made a second attempt, but Prime was content to sit back and watch the [[Spy Changer]]s go to work in foiling the quartet. {{storylink|Spychangers to the Rescue}}

{{quote|Your imagery is derivative. It lacks semiotic cohesion. And the hapless foe is you!|Optimus Prime, critiquing Sky-Byte's poetry|"The Hunt for Black Pyramid"}}

A distress call from Koji sent Optimus and the Autobot Brothers to a location in the sea near Metro City. Using the [[Global Space Bridge]], the Autobots made the leap out to a stricken ship, which was under attack by the Predacons. Prime fought with Sky-Byte, discovering that the shark had the edge while underwater. Once the ship was righted, the Autobot Leader quickly beat the Predacon into a withdrawal with his Fist of Steel. {{storylink|The Hunt for Black Pyramid}} Prime suspected that an attack by Megatron and the Predacon trio in the middle of Metro City was a diversion, and this was confirmed by an SOS from Side Burn, who was exploring [[Payuma ruins|Native American ruins]]. After Prime had traveled to the ruins and fought off Sky-Byte, the Autobots found a [[Doctor Onishi's microchip|microchip]], hidden there by Doctor Onishi. {{storylink|The Secret of the Ruins}}

[[Image:SecretWeaponD5 TAI Prime thoughtful.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Something about the upper chassis design?]]
Following Side Burn's kidnapping by the Predacons, Prime responded to the ransom request... by turning up alone and promptly being captured himself. Megatron began beating on the bound Optimus, until [[Prowl (RID)|Prowl]], [[X-Brawn]] and the Spy Changers mounted a stealth rescue. The prisoners freed, the Autobots turned on the Predacons and chased them off. {{storylink|Sideburn's Obsession}} When Koji reported a Predacon attack on the [[Grandpa|D-512 Stanwich Steamer]], Optimus coordinated the Autobot defense from home base. After [[Midnight Express (RID)|Midnight Express]]'s last minute rescue of the train, Optimus held Koji up so that the boy could film the steam engine. {{storylink|Secret Weapon: D-5}}

[[Image:SkidZsChoice Prime dynamic stock.jpg|thumb|right|200px|I hope you like this shot, cos you'll be seeing it a lot!]]
Optimus was not very worried about Mirage having apparently defected, stating that he was an Autobot and a member of the elite Spy Changers. {{storylink|Mirage's Betrayal}} Optimus has the Autobots all enter the [[International Grand Prix]] in order to try and find [[Skid-Z (RID)|Skid-Z]], a recently arrived Autobot who had scanned a racing car and become possessed by the urge to compete in races. Unfortunately the Predacons decided to enter the race too, and partway through, Optimus and the Autobot Brothers found themselves holding up a huge rock dropped onto them by Megatron. Fortunately Skid-Z himself turned up and destroyed the rock, allowing them to chase Megatron off. {{storylink|Skid Z's Choice}}

Another new recruit, [[Tow-Line (RID)|Tow-Line]] went rogue and began towing away random Autobots to an unspecified location. Prowl and Optimus finally managed to track Tow-Line down, correcting the damage to his circuits done by the Predacons, and rescuing their fellows. A rousing battle ensued, with inevitable defeat for the Predacons. {{storylink|Tow-Line Goes Haywire}} A Predacon investigation of the [[Cave of the Dragon]] lead Optimus and Midnight Express to dress up as a huge statue to chase them off. The ruse worked, and Optimus discovered that the cave did contain something of interest — an [[O-Part]]! {{storylink|The Ultimate Robot Warrior}} Concerned at recent Predacon activity, Optimus called the Autobots back to HQ to review previous missions. {{storylink|Hope for the Future}}

[[Image:TheDecepticons Prime missile launchers.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Why my shoulders hurt?]]
Lead by Doctor Onishi's microchip to [[Castle Peak]], Prime and the Autobot Brothers found the Predacons digging up a derelict Autobot spacecraft. The ship contained six [[protoform]]s, which Megatron promptly stole, whisking them away to nearby [[McKinley Army Base]] to be formatted into [[Decepticon]]s. During the fight at the base, [[Kelly (RID)|Kelly]] attempted to flee in a fuel tanker, and was saved by Optimus from plunging into a crater. The last protoform scanned Optimus and the tanker at the same time, resulting in [[Scourge (RID)|Scourge]], a Decepticon resembling a twisted clone of the Autobot leader. {{storylink|The Decepticons}} The Decepticons' first mission was to attack [[Sherman Dam]], during which Optimus managed to stop them from detonating explosives planted on the dam, and clashed with Scourge. {{storylink|Commandos}}

[[Image:Volcano Prime battle mode stock.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
More activity lead Prime and the Spy Changers to [[Montrose Island]], where they clashed with the Decepticons and Sky-Byte. With the volcano in danger of erupting, Optimus froze the crater with his Blizzard Storm attack, but was occupied fighting Scourge to do any more. He pinned [[Ruination (RID)|Ruination]], allowing the Spy Changer to use their [[Inferno Blast]] to divert the erupting lava to the sea. {{storylink|Volcano}} The Decepticons had [[Movor]] fired into space to try and locate the Autobot base from orbit, by observing Autobot movements. Optimus had Side Burn go to [[Pier 7B]], where an ambush had been arranged. Prime's battle with Scourge was largely won by the fact that Movor kept firing on the pair from space and accidentally hitting Scourge. {{storylink|Attack from Outer Space}}

Prime hoped that Scourge and his fellow Decepticons would one day be restored to their true Autobot selves, and in fact at one point [[Mega-Octane]] met with Optimus Prime, claiming that the Decepticons wanted to defect. Just as Optimus was about to show the Decepticons to the Autobot base, Sky-Byte attacked. Scourge's strike at the Predacon would have incurred a human casualty, had Optimus not deflected the sword blow with his [[Flying Fist]], and the trick was revealed. Enraged with disappointment, Optimus [[Burning justice|glowed with power]] as he fought off the Decepticons. {{storylink|The Test (episode)|The Test}}

[[Image:WedgesShortFuse Prime Blizzard Blast.jpg|thumb|left|200px|This image conjures some uncomfortable imagery...]]
Optimus took part in countering a series of attacks on power plants, {{storylink|The Fish Test}} and arrived in [[Antarctica]] in time to help the [[Build Team]] defeat the Decepticon and Predacon forces. {{storylink|Wedge's Short Fuse}} He also helped the Build Team reach the space bridge computer after the Decepticons sabotaged it. During the subsequent battle in the Arctic, he was content to let [[Landfill (RID)|Landfill]] face Megatron alone, as a matter of honor. {{storylink|Landfill (episode)|Landfill}}

Sky-Byte and his Predacons attacked the [[CGA Tower]] during its opening, apparently holding the humans inside hostage and demanding that Optimus Prime bring him the O-Parts. Optimus headed for the scene, but was cut off by the Decepticons. His haste resulted in him speedily dispatching Ruination with one shot from his Blaze Blaster, before hurrying to the tower. After a further battle with Scourge, Optimus helped stabilise the tower so that Landfill could create a new foundation for it. {{storylink|Sky-Byte Saves the Day}} After the Decepticons began a vendetta against the Build Team, Optimus ordered the Build Team not to get involved — but they did anyway, battling Ruination underground. Prime reached the location after Landfill had defeated the Decepticons in a huge fireball, and extinguished the four Autobots. {{storylink|A Test of Metal}}

[[Image:Forced Fusion Optimusbattlestation.jpg|thumb|200px|right|]]
Matters escalated when Ultra Magnus appeared on Earth, making his desire to take the Matrix from Optimus Prime known to his "brother". Optimus confronted Magnus, inviting the Autobot to join his team, but Magnus refused and challenged Prime to a duel. {{storylink|Ultra Magnus (episode)|Ultra Magnus}} Optimus refused to fight Magnus, and was thus mercilessly fired upon, until [[Side Burn (RID)|Side Burn]], [[Prowl (RID)|Prowl]], and [[X-Brawn]] arrived to carry him away. Prime took refuge on a deserted island, but the Decepticons, Megatron, and Magnus all tracked him there. In the midst of the battle, Magnus forcibly activated their ability to combine into [[Omega Prime]], intending to use it to drain Prime of his energy so he could take the Matrix, but Optimus managed to take control and use their combination to stop the Decepticons. {{storylink|Ultra Magnus: Forced Fusion!}}

Optimus took time out to review footage of the Autobots' recent missions. {{storylink|Lessons of the Past}} After the Decepticons captured the Autobot Brothers, Optimus confronted them, but was unable to fight back under threat of the brothers being killed. Despite being pounded on by the Decepticons, Optimus was fit enough to combine with Ultra Magnus once the three brothers were freed. {{storylink|The Two Faces of Ultra Magnus}} Optimus came to the Autobot Brothers' rescue himself when they experienced an odd power drain during battle. He fought Ruination and Scourge alone until Ultra Magnus arrived to lend a hand. {{storylink|Power to Burn!}}

[[Image:KojiGetsHisWish Optimus firing at Scourge.jpg|thumb|200px|left]]
During the search for some ruins under Metro City, Optimus Prime monitored things from base. He joined his men when they found [[Fortress Maximus (RID)|Fortress Maximus]] hidden in the ruins, and helped fight the Decepticons off. {{storylink|Fortress Maximus (episode)|Fortress Maximus}} While the Build Team concealed Fortress Maximus, Optimus kept Scourge busy, fighting the Decepticon beneath the city. {{storylink|Koji Gets His Wish}} He turned up in the [[Sahara|Sahara Desert]] after the rest of the Autobots had collected all of the O-Parts, in time to fight off Megatron. {{storylink|A Friendly Contest}}

[[Image:MaximusEmerges Optimus and Magnus.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Christian side-hug.]]
Combined into an orb, the O-Parts lead Optimus and the Autobot Brothers back to the Sahara, and a pyramid located in a cavern beneath the sands. There they battled with Megatron and the Decepticons over the [[Orb of Sigma]]. Once again, Omega Prime was formed in order to battle Megatron, and at the end of the battle, only the Autobot was still standing. {{storylink|Peril from the Past}} Though the Autobots gained the location of [[Cerebros (RID)|Cerebros]], the key to activating Fortress Maximus, Cerebros was snatched from their grasp by the Decepticons. Optimus lead his men in attempted to protect the titan, but Scourge managed to succeed. Fortress Maximus proved impossible to control, and began rampaging across the city. The return of Megatron, in a few form as Galvatron, complicated the battle, and even Optimus and Ultra Magnus combined into Omega Prime were unable to stop the devastation, until Koji managed to command Maximus to stop. {{storylink|Maximus Emerges}}

[[Image:SurpriseAttack Optimus carries Cerebros.jpg|thumb|200px|left]]
Clashes with the Decepticons and Fortress Maximus in a desert {{storylink|The Human Element}} and a forest were largely unsuccessful, but internal ructions in the Decepticon ranks eventually resulted in the Autobots managing to gain control of Cerebros. {{storylink|Mistaken Identity}} When the Decepticons discovered the location of the Autobot base and mounted an attack, Optimus took Cerebros, leading the Decepticons through Metro City to an ambush in a more remote location. Prime and Magnus combined into Omega Prime once again, but found they were ineffective against the power of Galvatron's ''[[Megastar]]'', and were forced to sit back and watch as Fortress Maximus dealt with the battle station. {{storylink|Surprise Attack!}}

Galvatron had survived the confrontation and began draining power from Fortress Maximus. When Omega Prime confronted him, he responded by using [[cyber-bat]]s to enslave and threaten the world's children. Prime was forced to call a retreat through the space bridge, which gave Galvatron the opportunity to trap them there and flood the tunnel with lava. As Optimus was overcome by the lava, Koji's words inspired him to escape and confront Galvatron once more. {{storylink|Galvatron's Revenge}}

Though Galvatron seized the rest of the Autobots in an energy field, Optimus escaped and combined with Ultra Magnus. Omega Prime challenged Galvatron one-on-one at the Earth's core. He was seemingly no match for the Decepticon leader, until Fortress Maximus sent his power, which energized the Matrix, forming the giant weapon, the [[Matrix Blade]]. Galvatron was defeated, and with that, the Autobots' mission on Earth was finished, and Prime resolved to return to Cybertron—but not before "one last look around" with Koji and the rest of his team. {{storylink|The Final Battle (RID)|The Final Battle}}

===Ultra Magnus...to the Rescue?===
[[Image:UltraMagnustotheRescue Optimus Prime.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
With the other Autobots all engaged in other fights around the world, Optimus Prime alone was available to answer T-AI's battle protocol at an experimental nuclear generator in Arizona. His opening plan was to lure the Predacons and Decepticons away from the humans to battle them at a safe distance, but his wayward brother Ultra Magnus intervened, confronting the villains head on in the middle of the generator plant. As Prime chastised Magnus for his rash action, Scourge overheard and seized on the idea to threaten the humans if the Autobots didn't stand down. Despite his anger at Optimus, Ultra Magnus remembered his Autobot training and reluctantly laid down his weapon. At the proper moment, though, the brothers managed to attack a distracted Scourge and save the humans. The Predacons and Decepticons escaped with the generator, but the humans were safe. {{storylink|Ultra Magnus...to the Rescue?}}

===''Universe'' comic===
[[Image:TFUjailbreak.jpg|left|thumb|300px|Here I am, kept in this tiny room, forced to be kept merged to this dude who hates me.]]
After turning in Galvatron to the proper authorities, Optimus Prime enjoyed the time following by studying various lifeforms and their environments on other planets throughout the universe. During this vacation, his weapons systems were upgraded considerably.

However, his skills were inevitably needed once again on Earth when evil threatened the planet. He formed the [[Dimensional Patrol]] from the ranks of the Autobots who had stayed behind on Earth, as well as additional experts in transwarp technology, to defend the planet from those who would do it harm via the "temporal and spatial nexus" in Earth's proximity. Unfortunately, Optimus Prime, Ultra Magnus, and several members of the Dimensional Patrol were abducted by [[Unicron]]. Here they were to battle each other in the [[Cauldron]], where their energy would feed and repair the shattered body of the Chaos Bringer. {{storylink|The Official Transformers Collectors' Club Magazine issue 1}}

As Omega Prime, Prime and Magnus escaped this fate in a jail-break set into motion by [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] and [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]]. They left Unicron for their home universe via a portal created by [[Optimus Primal]] and [[Snarl (BM)|Snarl]], {{storylink|Escape (issue)|Escape}} but shortly thereafter they were once again called into service by [[Primus]]. {{storylink|Homecoming (issue)|Homecoming}}

{{note|It is unclear whether the change to a yellow color scheme accompanied the weapons systems upgrade or if these colors were visited upon him by the [[Unicron virus|corrupting energies]] of the [[Pit]]. Since his colors had returned to "normal" by the end of the Universe conflict (see below), the latter seems most likely.}}

===''Cybertron'' comic===
[[Image:OptimusPrimeRIDprimuschamber.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Prime picked this trick up from watching ''BASEketball.'']]

During the final battle with the [[Minion of Unicron|Minions of Unicron]] in the [[Pit]], Optimus Prime and Ultra Magnus (as Omega Prime) were fighting alongside the [[Child of Primus|Children of Primus]] when the corrupt pocket universe began to collapse around them. Omega Prime and the others fled through a dimensional portal, but the powerlinxed brothers were diverted by the former [[Mini-Con]] [[Over-Run (Armada)|Over-Run]] into another reality, just in time to stop [[Nemesis Prime (Universe 2003)|Nemesis Prime]] from unleashing the [[Dead Matrix]] inside the Spark Chamber of [[Primus]]. The evil clone was vanquished, and the brothers hooked up with [[Sentinel Maximus]] and his comrades as they attempted to fortify Cybertron against the [[Unicron Singularity]].

Working relatively behind the scenes while that reality's [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] and his crew searched for the [[Cyber Planet Key|Cyber Planet Keys]], Optimus Prime and his brother found themselves moderating an internal dispute among the Mini-Con colonies in Cybertron's debris field, and were engaged with a Cybertronian-sized version of [[Unicron]] himself when Primus first transformed due to an infusion of Cyber Key Power. Some months later, after the final battle with the Cyber Key empowered [[Megatron (Armada)|Galvatron]], Optimus Prime first met his local counterpart, and they exchanged information on their endeavors over the last few months. With the newly reformed Unicron on the loose after their last encounter, Optimus chose to join Ultra Magnus and Sentinel Maximus in hunting him down. The final fate of their mission, and whether the brothers ever returned to their home reality, remains to be seen. {{storylink|Balancing Act}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Robots in Disguise===
[[Image:RID Optimus Prime toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|[[Burning Justice|BURNING JUSTICE]]]]
{{listen
|OpthimuthPrimeMaxthimithe.ogg
|OpthimuthPrimeMaxthimithe.ogg
|Sound Chip Sounds from RiD Optimus Prime. It's no "Hypergoldfish! GOLFBALL!", but at least he has a lisp...
|96 Kb
}}

*'''Optimus Prime''' (Super, 2000, 2001)
**''Japanese ID number'': '''C-001'''
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles

: ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime transforms into a Japanese Hino Brandlier fire truck. Harkening back to Generation 1 toys, he features chromed wheels with rubber tires. The forward section of his truck detaches to become his standard robot mode. His '[[trailer]]' can be reconfigured into a sort of battle station. The station can then be disassembled and attached around the robot to form his Battle Mode. His standard robot can combine with [[Ultra Magnus (RID)|Ultra Magnus]] to form [[Omega Prime]].

: The original [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] ''Car Robots'' release differs from the [[Hasbro]] version in that it has a darker, metallic-flake plastic, and has no Autobot symbols tampo-printed on the shoulder pads. Obviously, the voice clips used for the Japanese toy are also different, although the English clips are essentially translations of the Japanese ones (with the Hasbro toy incorrectly proclaiming that Optimus Prime's transformation into super mode uses the code-phrase "maximize"). Additionally, the Hasbro version has the unfortunate tendency for its rubber tires to split down its molding connection. Furthermore, Fire Convoy's missiles are of a different mold on the Japanese toy. The toy’s ladder features a trigger that flips all four of his missile launchers forward into firing position when pressed. On Fire Convoy, pressing this trigger causes all four missiles to immediately launch (if by "launch" you mean "be-flung-up-into-the-air-and-fall-to-the-ground-instantly") when they flip forward, whereas the Hasbro toy removes the auto-fire feature, allowing them to be launched one-at-a-time via individual triggers. Unchanged from the Takara release, the tires feature the name "FIRE CONVOY" instead of "OPTIMUS PRIME".

: By some bizarre twist of fate, the standard robot mode has four [[Mini-Con]] ports on his arms ''before'' they were used in ''[[Armada (toyline)|Armada]]''.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2001/Autobot/OptimusPrime/optimusprime.htm More information on Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
{{anchor|SuperBlack}}

*'''Black Super Fire Convoy ''' (Super, 2000/2001)
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles

: Also known as "Super Fire Convoy Black Version" and "Dark Super Fire Convoy", this [[black repaint]] of the Optimus Prime figure featured a golden chrome chest, and clear sirens. It was available only as a prize in several contests held by Takara: 15 units were available as prizes in a raffle held in [[TV Magazine]] in July; 400 were raffled off in a drawing that involved sending in coupons that came with the ''Car Robots'' DVDs (200 from October to December 2000, and 200 more from March to May 2001); and an undetermined amount were offered in a scratch-card contest also held by TV Magazine.

:This figure was also sold in a giftest with a black version of Ultra Magnus as "Black God Fire Convoy", noted below.
{{-}}
{{anchor|SuperClear}}
*'''Clear Super Fire Convoy''' (Super, 2000)
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles

: Clear Super Fire Convoy is, as his name suggests, constructed primarily of translucent plastic, and like the Black Version of the figure, was only available as a contest prize. An unknown number of units were raffled off as part of the "Convoy Car Robots Campaign" between June and July 2000, while 15 were available at drawings held at Tokyo's Seibu Department Store between the 15th and 28th of August.

:This figure was also sold in a giftest with a translucent version of Ultra Magnus as "Clear God Fire Convoy", noted below.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2000/Cybertron/ClearSuperFireConvoy/superfireconvoy.htm More information on Clear Super Fire Convoy at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
{{anchor|GodFireClear}}
*'''Black God Fire Convoy''' (Giftset, 2000)
:This two-figure giftset includes the Black Super Figure Convoy figure, plus a black version of the Ultra Magnus figure (itself exceptionally rare), who together combine to form Black God Fire Convoy. It was ''ludicrously'' limited in its availability, with the only ten units known to exist being offered as prizes in a scratch-card contest that TV Magazine run until early November 2000.
{{-}}
{{anchor|GodFireClear}}
*'''Clear God Fire Convoy''' (Giftset, 2000)
**''Accessories'': Matrix Blade
:This two-figure giftset includes the Clear Super Figure Convoy figure, plus a clear version of the Ultra Magnus figure not available anywhere else, who together combine to form Clear God Fire Convoy. The set also included the Matrix Blade sword, which had previously been available only through various contests and raffles.

:The giftset was exclusive to Japanese [[Toys"R"Us]] stores. Released in November 2000, it was limited to 3000 pieces; reportedly, only 100 TRUs carried the set, and limited customers to one purchase on the day of release.
{{-}}
{{anchor|SC}}

[[Image:Spychanger RIDPrime toy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Tiny BURNING JUSTICE]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (Basic, 2002)

: This is a smaller, simplified version of ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime made for the Spy Changer/Basic class in the ''Robots In Disguise'' toyline. It has no standard robot mode and parts do not detach. Oddly, all promotional images of this figure depicted it colored in ''orange''.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2002/Autobot/OptimusPrimeGobot/optimusprime.htm More information on Spychanger Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''

{{-}}

===Universe===
[[Image:Universe2003toy-OptimusPrimeSuper.jpg|right|250px|thumb|LEMON-FLAVORED BURNING JUSTICE]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (Supreme, 2003)
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles

: A Sam's Club [[exclusive]], the ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'' release of ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime basically swapped out all of his red plastic for a yellow-orange color. He came packed in robot mode in an upright display package, which featured a sticker on the front with a hilariously mistransformed Omega Prime, advertising the toy's combining ability with the simultaneously-released, slightly-redecoed Sam's Club exclusive ''Universe'' release of ''Robots In Disguise'' Ultra Magnus.

: For some reason, the Autobot symbol on his chest in Battle Mode is left unpainted.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2003/Autobot/TFUOptimusPrime/optimusprime.htm More information on ''Universe'' Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
{{anchor|WMSC}}

[[Image:TFU03-toy OptimusWMSpychanger.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Tiny LEMON-FLAVORED BURNING JUSTICE with donut chaser]]
*'''Optimus Prime and Prowl''' (Basic, 2003)

: One of a half-dozen Wal-Mart exclusive ''Universe'' toys to hit in the span of a few short months in 2003, this version of Prime is a yellow [[redeco]] of the ''Robots in Disguise'' [[Spy Changer]] Prime (with an oddly-unpainted face), based on the Sam's Club version of the larger toy. He was only available in a Basic-pricepoint two-pack with [[Prowl (Spychanger)|Prowl]].

:This toy was later [[Repurposing|repurposed]] as an [[Optimus Prime (Universe Spychanger)|alternate universe version of Optimus Prime]] by the [[OTFCC 2004 Live-Action Script Reading]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2004/Autobot/TFUOptimusPrime/optimusprime.htm More information on ''Universe'' Spychanger Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
===Cybertron===
* '''Ultra Magnus & Optimus Prime''' (Multi-pack, 2005)
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles
{{note|''Cybertron'' comic Optimus Prime was [[repurposing|repurposed]] from [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys#PrimeMagnus2pack|Ultra Magnus & Optimus Prime]].}}
:This Costco exclusive is a redecoed Super ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' Optimus Prime toy. He was sold with [[Ultra Magnus (Cybertron)|Ultra Magnus]], a repackaged Super ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'' [[Ultra Magnus (RID)|Ultra Magnus]]. He transforms into a Japanese Hino Brandlier fire truck. Harkening back to Generation 1 toys, he features chromed wheels with rubber tires. The forward section of his truck detaches to become his standard robot mode. His 'trailer' can be reconfigured into a sort of battle station. The station can then be disassembled and attached around the robot to form his '''Battle Mode'''.

: The bio that accompanied this set indicates that these toys are new versions of the [[Unicron Trilogy]] characters.

:In Australia, this set was released as a Myer exclusive.
===Titanium Series===
[[Image:Titanium RIDPrime.jpg|right|200px|thumb|METAL BURNING JUSTICE]]
* '''Optimus Prime''' (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2006)
**''Accessories'': Display stand, nameplate

: ''[[Titanium Series]]'' Optimus is a six-inch tall [[die-cast]] metal and plastic version of ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime. In vehicle mode the ladder rotates at its base and the nozzles flip out of the end of the ladder, but the ladder cannot extend. As he is much simplified compared to the larger toy, the (largely hollow) front of the vehicle cannot separate and form the standard robot mode, nor can the rear of the vehicle form the battlestation. Instead, the entire fire truck transforms into a simplified version of the super robot Battle Mode.

: This mold was also used to make ''Titanium Series'' [[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Zone]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2007/Autobot/TitRIDOptimusPrime/optimusprime.htm More information on ''Titanium'' Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''
{{--}}

==Merchandise==
===Transformers DX===

[[Image:Rid_prime_kabayakit1.jpg|right|225px|thumb|Puny BURNING JUSTICE]]

*'''Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Accessories:'' Pistol
:As part of [[Kabaya]]'s ''[[Transformers DX]]'' line of [[candy toy]]s, Optimus Prime was one of three pre-assembled transforming figurines packaged with lemon candy. Capable of transforming into only the cab portion of his vehicle mode, Prime's robot mode could also be upgraded into his Super Mode by attaching several additional armor pieces (two boots, two gauntlets, two arm-cannons, two shoulder guards, a head, a chest piece and a ladder), some of which came packaged with Prime himself, and the rest of which were split between the other two figures in the line, [[Rapid Run (RID)|Rapid Run]] and [[Prowl (RID)|Prowl]].
{{-}}

===Transformers Gum===
[[Image:Rid_prime_kabayakit2.jpg|right|225px|thumb|[[Scale|Out of scale]] BURNING JUSTICE]]

*'''Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' 1
**''Accessories:'' Pistol
:Part of Kabaya's ''[[Transformers Gum]]'' range of candy toys this version of Prime is a diminutive non-transforming snap-together model kit packaged with a stick of gum. Split across two plastic sprues, the kit is made of metallic silver and translucent red pieces with some painted details, which must be cut off their sprues and assembled by the buyer.

*'''Super Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' 2
:Prime's Super Mode also got representation in ''Transformers Gum''. Just as with his standard ''Gum'' figure, this one is likewise non-transforming, silver and translucent red, and packaged with gum.
{{-}}

===Trans Kit===
[[Image:Rid_prime_kabayakit3.jpg|right|225px|thumb|White Chocolate, Blueberry, and Cherry (not pictured) BURNING JUSTICE]]

*'''Super Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' 1
:Another model kit of Prime was released by Kabaya as part of their ''[[Trans Kit]]'' range of candy toys. This non-transforming figure was cast entirely in one color of plastic, but was available in either grey, blue or red. It came packaged in a two-piece box with candy-coated chocolates.

*'''Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' 2
**''Accessories:'' Pistol
:Like his larger self, this version of Prime was also available in grey, blue and red plastic.
{{-}}

===KT Figure Collection===

* '''Ai-chan''' (2004)

[[Image:AI PVC.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Perverted BURNING JUSTICE]]
: This figurine was produced by [[KT Figure Collection]], and included in a set of four others. It is notable in that not only is this the only non-[[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] PVC in the entire set, but Ai-chan is portrayed bathing in a hot spring, and is thus completely nude, aside from her hat. A [[super deformed]] [[Optimus Prime (RID)|Super Fire Convoy]] is seen peeking over the side, and a miniature [[Sky-Byte (RID)|Gelshark]] bath toy is in Ai-chan's hands.

: Yes, it's creepy. And you may find her face is familiar, BECAUSE the figure is designed by [[Yūki Ōshima]], who did the [[Kiss Players (franchise)|creepiest thing]] in the [[Transformers brand|''Transformers'' brand]] ever.
{{-}}

===Robot Heroes===
* '''Optimus Prime''' / '''Megatron'''

[[Image:Robotheroesprimemegatron.jpg|right|300px|thumb|ADORABLE BURNING JUSTICE with [[Megatron (RID)|lazy madman]]]]
:Robot Heroes Optimus Prime is based on his "Battle mode" look, and is available with Megatron.

{{canceledtoy}}

{{--}}

==Notes==
* According to the first ''Car Robots'' toy catalog, Optimus and his Autobots are part of a "Dimensional Patrol" that followed the Predacons from another dimension. This seems to have been only vaguely alluded to in the Japanese version of the show—Fire Convoy proclaimed in the first episode that he would follow Gigatron wherever he went, "even if it's to the edge of the universe"—but does not seem to have played a large part of the main story, to the extent that the ''Robots in Disguise'' dub was able to omit it entirely. However, the [[3H]] supplemental materials for the ''Universe'' series re-established the idea, presenting the "Dimensional Patrol" as a post-cartoon organization.

* The first ''Car Robots'' catalog also stated that Fire Convoy and Gigatron were once "[[:Image:MangaYoungDeathyStarSaber.jpg|childhood friends]]" that became eternal rivals. We don't really have any idea how that was supposed to work.

* Fans in Japan joke that Optimus Prime is an Autobot [[Emperor of Destruction]] rather than an Autobot [[Supreme Commander]], due to his actions in the ''Car Robot'' anime.

* For this incarnation of Optimus, voice actor [[Neil Kaplan]] specifically impersonated the voice of the original [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]], [[Peter Cullen]]. ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime is one of the few Optimuses (two [[Optimus Prime (Animated)|as of 2008]]) whose English voice actor isn't Cullen or [[Garry Chalk]]. At conventions, Kaplan refers to himself as "the [[wikipedia:George_Lazenby|George Lazenby]] of Optimus Primes".<ref>This would presumably make [[David Kaye]] the [[wikipedia:Daniel_Craig|Daniel Craig]] of Optimus Primes.</ref>

* ''Cybertron'' "Multi-Pack" Optimus Prime's on-package [[bio]] seems to indicate he's ''Unicron Trilogy'' Optimus Prime. However, his (and Magnus') deco was later used in the [[Fun Publications]] ''Cybertron'' fan club magazine comic as ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime having traveled to the ''Unicron Trilogy'' universe.

* Optimus Prime's [[Super Mode]] chest resembles the chest of EnRyu from ''[[Brave|King of Braves GaoGaiGar]]'', another Takara series. EnRyu also transforms into a fire truck with a similarly positioned "ladder cannon".

*This is the first incarnation of Optimus not to be [[The many deaths of Optimus Prime|killed off]] at any point during his series. Possibly due to the fact that he is not intended to be [[Optimus Prime (disambiguation)|Optimus Prime]] in the original ''Car Robot'' series.

*Optimus was left out of the [[BotCon 2010]] [[Transformers Hall of Fame]] video tribute to Optimus Prime(s).

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Fire Convoy''' (ファイヤーコンボイ ''Faiyā Konboi'')

==Footnotes==
<references />

[[Category:Autobot leaders]]
[[Category:Combiners]]
[[Category:Costco exclusives]]
[[Category:Cybertron Autobots]]
[[Category:Dimension hoppers]]
[[Category:Matrix bearers]]
[[Category:Repurposed toys]]
[[Category:Robots in Disguise Autobots]]
[[Category:Sam's Club exclusives]]
[[Category:Spy Changers]]
[[Category:Titanium Series]]
[[Category:Universe (2008)]]
[[Category:Universe Autobots]]

Optimus Prime (RID)

2011-08-23T01:01:30Z

Pcnkgcdk:

Optimus Prime (RID)

2011-08-23T01:00:30Z

Pcnkgcdk:

{{factions|autobot Hall of fame}}
{{disambig3|Optimus Prime}}
:''Optimus Prime is the [[Autobot]] leader from the [[Robots in Disguise (franchise)|Robots in Disguise]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:RIDPrime02.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Ironically, filled with [[Burning justice|blazing justice.]] ]]
'''Optimus Prime''' is a stern and serious commander, devoted to protecting freedom and innocent life. He has seen the galactic path of conquest and destruction already burned by [[Megatron (RID)|Megatron]] and swears it will not include [[Earth]]. Optimus Prime often finds himself in the role of "straight man" to the more comic stylings of the other Autobots and [[Predacon (RID)|Predacons]], and tends to treat their humorous exaggerations or personality quirks as statements of straightforward fact. His subordinates view him as a great leader, if stubborn and much too prone to long speeches. Optimus Prime's greatest weakness is his sense of nobility. If an adversary claims to have had a change of heart and discovered inner goodness, Prime will fall for it every single time. But once he finds out he's been had, they'd better watch out!

==Fiction==
===''Robots in Disguise'' cartoon===
:''Voice actor:'' [[Neil Kaplan]] (English), [[Satoshi Hashimoto]] (Japanese), [[Guilherme Briggs]] (Portuguese), [[Gerardo Reyero]] (Latin American Spanish)
[[Image:BattleProtocol Prime gun.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Firearms are the right of all sentient beings.]]
Optimus Prime was created, along with [[Ultra Magnus (RID)|Ultra Magnus]], by [[Alpha Trion (RID)|Alpha Trion]] during the [[Golden Age]]. The two of them were raised together, and thus, saw each other as brothers. However, this relationship was torn apart after the Cybertron Civil Wars, whereupon the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]] chose Optimus Prime to command the Autobots in stopping the [[Predacon (RID)|Predacon]] leader [[Megatron (RID)|Megatron]] from ravaging the universe in his quest for energy. Ultra Magnus left Cybertron that same day, bitter and spiteful of his brother. {{storylink|Ultra Magnus: Forced Fusion!}}

Prime soon struck up command on [[Earth]], where he took the form of a fire truck. Operating out of a secret base in [[Metro City]], he and his fellow Autobots were more than ready to face Megatron and his Predacons. The conflict began when Megatron appeared in New York, attempting to kidnap the famous scientist [[Kenneth Onishi|Doctor Kenneth Onishi]]. Optimus struck up a friendship with Onishi's son, [[Koji Onishi|Koji]], and despite not being able to save the boy's father, vowed that he would help rescue him. {{storylink|Battle Protocol!}}

[[Image:BulletTrainRescue Prime through window.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Armour Digivolve!]]
Optimus later took Koji to see the Autobot base, during a series of Predacon attacks on trucks around Metro City. New Predacon [[Sky-Byte (RID)|Sky-Byte]] turned out to be after a terrorist device hidden in a sports car. With the bomb on the verge of exploding, Optimus converted to his [[Super Mode|battle mode]] and used his power stream to blast the shark and the bomb safely into space. {{storylink|An Explosive Situation}} The launch of the [[Linear RFG]] bullet train was also a clear target for the Predacons, and Optimus ordered the Autobots to provide an escort. Sure enough, the Predacons destroyed a bridge ahead, and Optimus aided [[Team Bullet Train]] in stopping the train before disaster occurred. {{storylink|Bullet Train to the Rescue}}

Together with the [[Autobot Brothers]], Prime prevented the Predacons from stealing the [[Plutonium Energy Generator]] stored in a Metro City warehouse. When the generator was later moved, the Predacons made a second attempt, but Prime was content to sit back and watch the [[Spy Changer]]s go to work in foiling the quartet. {{storylink|Spychangers to the Rescue}}

{{quote|Your imagery is derivative. It lacks semiotic cohesion. And the hapless foe is you!|Optimus Prime, critiquing Sky-Byte's poetry|"The Hunt for Black Pyramid"}}

A distress call from Koji sent Optimus and the Autobot Brothers to a location in the sea near Metro City. Using the [[Global Space Bridge]], the Autobots made the leap out to a stricken ship, which was under attack by the Predacons. Prime fought with Sky-Byte, discovering that the shark had the edge while underwater. Once the ship was righted, the Autobot Leader quickly beat the Predacon into a withdrawal with his Fist of Steel. {{storylink|The Hunt for Black Pyramid}} Prime suspected that an attack by Megatron and the Predacon trio in the middle of Metro City was a diversion, and this was confirmed by an SOS from Side Burn, who was exploring [[Payuma ruins|Native American ruins]]. After Prime had traveled to the ruins and fought off Sky-Byte, the Autobots found a [[Doctor Onishi's microchip|microchip]], hidden there by Doctor Onishi. {{storylink|The Secret of the Ruins}}

[[Image:SecretWeaponD5 TAI Prime thoughtful.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Something about the upper chassis design?]]
Following Side Burn's kidnapping by the Predacons, Prime responded to the ransom request... by turning up alone and promptly being captured himself. Megatron began beating on the bound Optimus, until [[Prowl (RID)|Prowl]], [[X-Brawn]] and the Spy Changers mounted a stealth rescue. The prisoners freed, the Autobots turned on the Predacons and chased them off. {{storylink|Sideburn's Obsession}} When Koji reported a Predacon attack on the [[Grandpa|D-512 Stanwich Steamer]], Optimus coordinated the Autobot defense from home base. After [[Midnight Express (RID)|Midnight Express]]'s last minute rescue of the train, Optimus held Koji up so that the boy could film the steam engine. {{storylink|Secret Weapon: D-5}}

[[Image:SkidZsChoice Prime dynamic stock.jpg|thumb|right|200px|I hope you like this shot, cos you'll be seeing it a lot!]]
Optimus was not very worried about Mirage having apparently defected, stating that he was an Autobot and a member of the elite Spy Changers. {{storylink|Mirage's Betrayal}} Optimus has the Autobots all enter the [[International Grand Prix]] in order to try and find [[Skid-Z (RID)|Skid-Z]], a recently arrived Autobot who had scanned a racing car and become possessed by the urge to compete in races. Unfortunately the Predacons decided to enter the race too, and partway through, Optimus and the Autobot Brothers found themselves holding up a huge rock dropped onto them by Megatron. Fortunately Skid-Z himself turned up and destroyed the rock, allowing them to chase Megatron off. {{storylink|Skid Z's Choice}}

Another new recruit, [[Tow-Line (RID)|Tow-Line]] went rogue and began towing away random Autobots to an unspecified location. Prowl and Optimus finally managed to track Tow-Line down, correcting the damage to his circuits done by the Predacons, and rescuing their fellows. A rousing battle ensued, with inevitable defeat for the Predacons. {{storylink|Tow-Line Goes Haywire}} A Predacon investigation of the [[Cave of the Dragon]] lead Optimus and Midnight Express to dress up as a huge statue to chase them off. The ruse worked, and Optimus discovered that the cave did contain something of interest — an [[O-Part]]! {{storylink|The Ultimate Robot Warrior}} Concerned at recent Predacon activity, Optimus called the Autobots back to HQ to review previous missions. {{storylink|Hope for the Future}}

[[Image:TheDecepticons Prime missile launchers.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Why my shoulders hurt?]]
Lead by Doctor Onishi's microchip to [[Castle Peak]], Prime and the Autobot Brothers found the Predacons digging up a derelict Autobot spacecraft. The ship contained six [[protoform]]s, which Megatron promptly stole, whisking them away to nearby [[McKinley Army Base]] to be formatted into [[Decepticon]]s. During the fight at the base, [[Kelly (RID)|Kelly]] attempted to flee in a fuel tanker, and was saved by Optimus from plunging into a crater. The last protoform scanned Optimus and the tanker at the same time, resulting in [[Scourge (RID)|Scourge]], a Decepticon resembling a twisted clone of the Autobot leader. {{storylink|The Decepticons}} The Decepticons' first mission was to attack [[Sherman Dam]], during which Optimus managed to stop them from detonating explosives planted on the dam, and clashed with Scourge. {{storylink|Commandos}}

[[Image:Volcano Prime battle mode stock.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
More activity lead Prime and the Spy Changers to [[Montrose Island]], where they clashed with the Decepticons and Sky-Byte. With the volcano in danger of erupting, Optimus froze the crater with his Blizzard Storm attack, but was occupied fighting Scourge to do any more. He pinned [[Ruination (RID)|Ruination]], allowing the Spy Changer to use their [[Inferno Blast]] to divert the erupting lava to the sea. {{storylink|Volcano}} The Decepticons had [[Movor]] fired into space to try and locate the Autobot base from orbit, by observing Autobot movements. Optimus had Side Burn go to [[Pier 7B]], where an ambush had been arranged. Prime's battle with Scourge was largely won by the fact that Movor kept firing on the pair from space and accidentally hitting Scourge. {{storylink|Attack from Outer Space}}

Prime hoped that Scourge and his fellow Decepticons would one day be restored to their true Autobot selves, and in fact at one point [[Mega-Octane]] met with Optimus Prime, claiming that the Decepticons wanted to defect. Just as Optimus was about to show the Decepticons to the Autobot base, Sky-Byte attacked. Scourge's strike at the Predacon would have incurred a human casualty, had Optimus not deflected the sword blow with his [[Flying Fist]], and the trick was revealed. Enraged with disappointment, Optimus [[Burning justice|glowed with power]] as he fought off the Decepticons. {{storylink|The Test (episode)|The Test}}

[[Image:WedgesShortFuse Prime Blizzard Blast.jpg|thumb|left|200px|This image conjures some uncomfortable imagery...]]
Optimus took part in countering a series of attacks on power plants, {{storylink|The Fish Test}} and arrived in [[Antarctica]] in time to help the [[Build Team]] defeat the Decepticon and Predacon forces. {{storylink|Wedge's Short Fuse}} He also helped the Build Team reach the space bridge computer after the Decepticons sabotaged it. During the subsequent battle in the Arctic, he was content to let [[Landfill (RID)|Landfill]] face Megatron alone, as a matter of honor. {{storylink|Landfill (episode)|Landfill}}

Sky-Byte and his Predacons attacked the [[CGA Tower]] during its opening, apparently holding the humans inside hostage and demanding that Optimus Prime bring him the O-Parts. Optimus headed for the scene, but was cut off by the Decepticons. His haste resulted in him speedily dispatching Ruination with one shot from his Blaze Blaster, before hurrying to the tower. After a further battle with Scourge, Optimus helped stabilise the tower so that Landfill could create a new foundation for it. {{storylink|Sky-Byte Saves the Day}} After the Decepticons began a vendetta against the Build Team, Optimus ordered the Build Team not to get involved — but they did anyway, battling Ruination underground. Prime reached the location after Landfill had defeated the Decepticons in a huge fireball, and extinguished the four Autobots. {{storylink|A Test of Metal}}

[[Image:Forced Fusion Optimusbattlestation.jpg|thumb|200px|right|]]
Matters escalated when Ultra Magnus appeared on Earth, making his desire to take the Matrix from Optimus Prime known to his "brother". Optimus confronted Magnus, inviting the Autobot to join his team, but Magnus refused and challenged Prime to a duel. {{storylink|Ultra Magnus (episode)|Ultra Magnus}} Optimus refused to fight Magnus, and was thus mercilessly fired upon, until [[Side Burn (RID)|Side Burn]], [[Prowl (RID)|Prowl]], and [[X-Brawn]] arrived to carry him away. Prime took refuge on a deserted island, but the Decepticons, Megatron, and Magnus all tracked him there. In the midst of the battle, Magnus forcibly activated their ability to combine into [[Omega Prime]], intending to use it to drain Prime of his energy so he could take the Matrix, but Optimus managed to take control and use their combination to stop the Decepticons. {{storylink|Ultra Magnus: Forced Fusion!}}

Optimus took time out to review footage of the Autobots' recent missions. {{storylink|Lessons of the Past}} After the Decepticons captured the Autobot Brothers, Optimus confronted them, but was unable to fight back under threat of the brothers being killed. Despite being pounded on by the Decepticons, Optimus was fit enough to combine with Ultra Magnus once the three brothers were freed. {{storylink|The Two Faces of Ultra Magnus}} Optimus came to the Autobot Brothers' rescue himself when they experienced an odd power drain during battle. He fought Ruination and Scourge alone until Ultra Magnus arrived to lend a hand. {{storylink|Power to Burn!}}

[[Image:KojiGetsHisWish Optimus firing at Scourge.jpg|thumb|200px|left]]
During the search for some ruins under Metro City, Optimus Prime monitored things from base. He joined his men when they found [[Fortress Maximus (RID)|Fortress Maximus]] hidden in the ruins, and helped fight the Decepticons off. {{storylink|Fortress Maximus (episode)|Fortress Maximus}} While the Build Team concealed Fortress Maximus, Optimus kept Scourge busy, fighting the Decepticon beneath the city. {{storylink|Koji Gets His Wish}} He turned up in the [[Sahara|Sahara Desert]] after the rest of the Autobots had collected all of the O-Parts, in time to fight off Megatron. {{storylink|A Friendly Contest}}

[[Image:MaximusEmerges Optimus and Magnus.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Christian side-hug.]]
Combined into an orb, the O-Parts lead Optimus and the Autobot Brothers back to the Sahara, and a pyramid located in a cavern beneath the sands. There they battled with Megatron and the Decepticons over the [[Orb of Sigma]]. Once again, Omega Prime was formed in order to battle Megatron, and at the end of the battle, only the Autobot was still standing. {{storylink|Peril from the Past}} Though the Autobots gained the location of [[Cerebros (RID)|Cerebros]], the key to activating Fortress Maximus, Cerebros was snatched from their grasp by the Decepticons. Optimus lead his men in attempted to protect the titan, but Scourge managed to succeed. Fortress Maximus proved impossible to control, and began rampaging across the city. The return of Megatron, in a few form as Galvatron, complicated the battle, and even Optimus and Ultra Magnus combined into Omega Prime were unable to stop the devastation, until Koji managed to command Maximus to stop. {{storylink|Maximus Emerges}}

[[Image:SurpriseAttack Optimus carries Cerebros.jpg|thumb|200px|left]]
Clashes with the Decepticons and Fortress Maximus in a desert {{storylink|The Human Element}} and a forest were largely unsuccessful, but internal ructions in the Decepticon ranks eventually resulted in the Autobots managing to gain control of Cerebros. {{storylink|Mistaken Identity}} When the Decepticons discovered the location of the Autobot base and mounted an attack, Optimus took Cerebros, leading the Decepticons through Metro City to an ambush in a more remote location. Prime and Magnus combined into Omega Prime once again, but found they were ineffective against the power of Galvatron's ''[[Megastar]]'', and were forced to sit back and watch as Fortress Maximus dealt with the battle station. {{storylink|Surprise Attack!}}

Galvatron had survived the confrontation and began draining power from Fortress Maximus. When Omega Prime confronted him, he responded by using [[cyber-bat]]s to enslave and threaten the world's children. Prime was forced to call a retreat through the space bridge, which gave Galvatron the opportunity to trap them there and flood the tunnel with lava. As Optimus was overcome by the lava, Koji's words inspired him to escape and confront Galvatron once more. {{storylink|Galvatron's Revenge}}

Though Galvatron seized the rest of the Autobots in an energy field, Optimus escaped and combined with Ultra Magnus. Omega Prime challenged Galvatron one-on-one at the Earth's core. He was seemingly no match for the Decepticon leader, until Fortress Maximus sent his power, which energized the Matrix, forming the giant weapon, the [[Matrix Blade]]. Galvatron was defeated, and with that, the Autobots' mission on Earth was finished, and Prime resolved to return to Cybertron—but not before "one last look around" with Koji and the rest of his team. {{storylink|The Final Battle (RID)|The Final Battle}}

===Ultra Magnus...to the Rescue?===
[[Image:UltraMagnustotheRescue Optimus Prime.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
With the other Autobots all engaged in other fights around the world, Optimus Prime alone was available to answer T-AI's battle protocol at an experimental nuclear generator in Arizona. His opening plan was to lure the Predacons and Decepticons away from the humans to battle them at a safe distance, but his wayward brother Ultra Magnus intervened, confronting the villains head on in the middle of the generator plant. As Prime chastised Magnus for his rash action, Scourge overheard and seized on the idea to threaten the humans if the Autobots didn't stand down. Despite his anger at Optimus, Ultra Magnus remembered his Autobot training and reluctantly laid down his weapon. At the proper moment, though, the brothers managed to attack a distracted Scourge and save the humans. The Predacons and Decepticons escaped with the generator, but the humans were safe. {{storylink|Ultra Magnus...to the Rescue?}}

===''Universe'' comic===
[[Image:TFUjailbreak.jpg|left|thumb|300px|Here I am, kept in this tiny room, forced to be kept merged to this dude who hates me.]]
After turning in Galvatron to the proper authorities, Optimus Prime enjoyed the time following by studying various lifeforms and their environments on other planets throughout the universe. During this vacation, his weapons systems were upgraded considerably.

However, his skills were inevitably needed once again on Earth when evil threatened the planet. He formed the [[Dimensional Patrol]] from the ranks of the Autobots who had stayed behind on Earth, as well as additional experts in transwarp technology, to defend the planet from those who would do it harm via the "temporal and spatial nexus" in Earth's proximity. Unfortunately, Optimus Prime, Ultra Magnus, and several members of the Dimensional Patrol were abducted by [[Unicron]]. Here they were to battle each other in the [[Cauldron]], where their energy would feed and repair the shattered body of the Chaos Bringer. {{storylink|The Official Transformers Collectors' Club Magazine issue 1}}

As Omega Prime, Prime and Magnus escaped this fate in a jail-break set into motion by [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] and [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]]. They left Unicron for their home universe via a portal created by [[Optimus Primal]] and [[Snarl (BM)|Snarl]], {{storylink|Escape (issue)|Escape}} but shortly thereafter they were once again called into service by [[Primus]]. {{storylink|Homecoming (issue)|Homecoming}}

{{note|It is unclear whether the change to a yellow color scheme accompanied the weapons systems upgrade or if these colors were visited upon him by the [[Unicron virus|corrupting energies]] of the [[Pit]]. Since his colors had returned to "normal" by the end of the Universe conflict (see below), the latter seems most likely.}}

===''Cybertron'' comic===
[[Image:OptimusPrimeRIDprimuschamber.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Prime picked this trick up from watching ''BASEketball.'']]

During the final battle with the [[Minion of Unicron|Minions of Unicron]] in the [[Pit]], Optimus Prime and Ultra Magnus (as Omega Prime) were fighting alongside the [[Child of Primus|Children of Primus]] when the corrupt pocket universe began to collapse around them. Omega Prime and the others fled through a dimensional portal, but the powerlinxed brothers were diverted by the former [[Mini-Con]] [[Over-Run (Armada)|Over-Run]] into another reality, just in time to stop [[Nemesis Prime (Universe 2003)|Nemesis Prime]] from unleashing the [[Dead Matrix]] inside the Spark Chamber of [[Primus]]. The evil clone was vanquished, and the brothers hooked up with [[Sentinel Maximus]] and his comrades as they attempted to fortify Cybertron against the [[Unicron Singularity]].

Working relatively behind the scenes while that reality's [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] and his crew searched for the [[Cyber Planet Key|Cyber Planet Keys]], Optimus Prime and his brother found themselves moderating an internal dispute among the Mini-Con colonies in Cybertron's debris field, and were engaged with a Cybertronian-sized version of [[Unicron]] himself when Primus first transformed due to an infusion of Cyber Key Power. Some months later, after the final battle with the Cyber Key empowered [[Megatron (Armada)|Galvatron]], Optimus Prime first met his local counterpart, and they exchanged information on their endeavors over the last few months. With the newly reformed Unicron on the loose after their last encounter, Optimus chose to join Ultra Magnus and Sentinel Maximus in hunting him down. The final fate of their mission, and whether the brothers ever returned to their home reality, remains to be seen. {{storylink|Balancing Act}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Robots in Disguise===
[[Image:RID Optimus Prime toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|[[Burning Justice|BURNING JUSTICE]]]]
{{listen
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|Sound Chip Sounds from RiD Optimus Prime. It's no "Hypergoldfish! GOLFBALL!", but at least he has a lisp...
|96 Kb
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*'''Optimus Prime''' (Super, 2000, 2001)
**''Japanese ID number'': '''C-001'''
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles

: ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime transforms into a Japanese Hino Brandlier fire truck. Harkening back to Generation 1 toys, he features chromed wheels with rubber tires. The forward section of his truck detaches to become his standard robot mode. His '[[trailer]]' can be reconfigured into a sort of battle station. The station can then be disassembled and attached around the robot to form his Battle Mode. His standard robot can combine with [[Ultra Magnus (RID)|Ultra Magnus]] to form [[Omega Prime]].

: The original [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] ''Car Robots'' release differs from the [[Hasbro]] version in that it has a darker, metallic-flake plastic, and has no Autobot symbols tampo-printed on the shoulder pads. Obviously, the voice clips used for the Japanese toy are also different, although the English clips are essentially translations of the Japanese ones (with the Hasbro toy incorrectly proclaiming that Optimus Prime's transformation into super mode uses the code-phrase "maximize"). Additionally, the Hasbro version has the unfortunate tendency for its rubber tires to split down its molding connection. Furthermore, Fire Convoy's missiles are of a different mold on the Japanese toy. The toy’s ladder features a trigger that flips all four of his missile launchers forward into firing position when pressed. On Fire Convoy, pressing this trigger causes all four missiles to immediately launch (if by "launch" you mean "be-flung-up-into-the-air-and-fall-to-the-ground-instantly") when they flip forward, whereas the Hasbro toy removes the auto-fire feature, allowing them to be launched one-at-a-time via individual triggers. Unchanged from the Takara release, the tires feature the name "FIRE CONVOY" instead of "OPTIMUS PRIME".

: By some bizarre twist of fate, the standard robot mode has four [[Mini-Con]] ports on his arms ''before'' they were used in ''[[Armada (toyline)|Armada]]''.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2001/Autobot/OptimusPrime/optimusprime.htm More information on Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
{{anchor|SuperBlack}}

*'''Black Super Fire Convoy ''' (Super, 2000/2001)
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles

: Also known as "Super Fire Convoy Black Version" and "Dark Super Fire Convoy", this [[black repaint]] of the Optimus Prime figure featured a golden chrome chest, and clear sirens. It was available only as a prize in several contests held by Takara: 15 units were available as prizes in a raffle held in [[TV Magazine]] in July; 400 were raffled off in a drawing that involved sending in coupons that came with the ''Car Robots'' DVDs (200 from October to December 2000, and 200 more from March to May 2001); and an undetermined amount were offered in a scratch-card contest also held by TV Magazine.

:This figure was also sold in a giftest with a black version of Ultra Magnus as "Black God Fire Convoy", noted below.
{{-}}
{{anchor|SuperClear}}
*'''Clear Super Fire Convoy''' (Super, 2000)
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles

: Clear Super Fire Convoy is, as his name suggests, constructed primarily of translucent plastic, and like the Black Version of the figure, was only available as a contest prize. An unknown number of units were raffled off as part of the "Convoy Car Robots Campaign" between June and July 2000, while 15 were available at drawings held at Tokyo's Seibu Department Store between the 15th and 28th of August.

:This figure was also sold in a giftest with a translucent version of Ultra Magnus as "Clear God Fire Convoy", noted below.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2000/Cybertron/ClearSuperFireConvoy/superfireconvoy.htm More information on Clear Super Fire Convoy at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
{{anchor|GodFireClear}}
*'''Black God Fire Convoy''' (Giftset, 2000)
:This two-figure giftset includes the Black Super Figure Convoy figure, plus a black version of the Ultra Magnus figure (itself exceptionally rare), who together combine to form Black God Fire Convoy. It was ''ludicrously'' limited in its availability, with the only ten units known to exist being offered as prizes in a scratch-card contest that TV Magazine run until early November 2000.
{{-}}
{{anchor|GodFireClear}}
*'''Clear God Fire Convoy''' (Giftset, 2000)
**''Accessories'': Matrix Blade
:This two-figure giftset includes the Clear Super Figure Convoy figure, plus a clear version of the Ultra Magnus figure not available anywhere else, who together combine to form Clear God Fire Convoy. The set also included the Matrix Blade sword, which had previously been available only through various contests and raffles.

:The giftset was exclusive to Japanese [[Toys"R"Us]] stores. Released in November 2000, it was limited to 3000 pieces; reportedly, only 100 TRUs carried the set, and limited customers to one purchase on the day of release.
{{-}}
{{anchor|SC}}

[[Image:Spychanger RIDPrime toy.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Tiny BURNING JUSTICE]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (Basic, 2002)

: This is a smaller, simplified version of ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime made for the Spy Changer/Basic class in the ''Robots In Disguise'' toyline. It has no standard robot mode and parts do not detach. Oddly, all promotional images of this figure depicted it colored in ''orange''.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2002/Autobot/OptimusPrimeGobot/optimusprime.htm More information on Spychanger Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''

{{-}}

===Universe===
[[Image:Universe2003toy-OptimusPrimeSuper.jpg|right|250px|thumb|LEMON-FLAVORED BURNING JUSTICE]]
*'''Optimus Prime''' (Supreme, 2003)
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles

: A Sam's Club [[exclusive]], the ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'' release of ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime basically swapped out all of his red plastic for a yellow-orange color. He came packed in robot mode in an upright display package, which featured a sticker on the front with a hilariously mistransformed Omega Prime, advertising the toy's combining ability with the simultaneously-released, slightly-redecoed Sam's Club exclusive ''Universe'' release of ''Robots In Disguise'' Ultra Magnus.

: For some reason, the Autobot symbol on his chest in Battle Mode is left unpainted.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2003/Autobot/TFUOptimusPrime/optimusprime.htm More information on ''Universe'' Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
{{anchor|WMSC}}

[[Image:TFU03-toy OptimusWMSpychanger.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Tiny LEMON-FLAVORED BURNING JUSTICE with donut chaser]]
*'''Optimus Prime and Prowl''' (Basic, 2003)

: One of a half-dozen Wal-Mart exclusive ''Universe'' toys to hit in the span of a few short months in 2003, this version of Prime is a yellow [[redeco]] of the ''Robots in Disguise'' [[Spy Changer]] Prime (with an oddly-unpainted face), based on the Sam's Club version of the larger toy. He was only available in a Basic-pricepoint two-pack with [[Prowl (Spychanger)|Prowl]].

:This toy was later [[Repurposing|repurposed]] as an [[Optimus Prime (Universe Spychanger)|alternate universe version of Optimus Prime]] by the [[OTFCC 2004 Live-Action Script Reading]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2004/Autobot/TFUOptimusPrime/optimusprime.htm More information on ''Universe'' Spychanger Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''
{{-}}
===Cybertron===
* '''Ultra Magnus & Optimus Prime''' (Multi-pack, 2005)
**''Accessories'': Pistol, 4 missiles
{{note|''Cybertron'' comic Optimus Prime was [[repurposing|repurposed]] from [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys#PrimeMagnus2pack|Ultra Magnus & Optimus Prime]].}}
:This Costco exclusive is a redecoed Super ''[[Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' Optimus Prime toy. He was sold with [[Ultra Magnus (Cybertron)|Ultra Magnus]], a repackaged Super ''[[Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'' [[Ultra Magnus (RID)|Ultra Magnus]]. He transforms into a Japanese Hino Brandlier fire truck. Harkening back to Generation 1 toys, he features chromed wheels with rubber tires. The forward section of his truck detaches to become his standard robot mode. His 'trailer' can be reconfigured into a sort of battle station. The station can then be disassembled and attached around the robot to form his '''Battle Mode'''.

: The bio that accompanied this set indicates that these toys are new versions of the [[Unicron Trilogy]] characters.

:In Australia, this set was released as a Myer exclusive.
===Titanium Series===
[[Image:Titanium RIDPrime.jpg|right|200px|thumb|METAL BURNING JUSTICE]]
* '''Optimus Prime''' (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2006)
**''Accessories'': Display stand, nameplate

: ''[[Titanium Series]]'' Optimus is a six-inch tall [[die-cast]] metal and plastic version of ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime. In vehicle mode the ladder rotates at its base and the nozzles flip out of the end of the ladder, but the ladder cannot extend. As he is much simplified compared to the larger toy, the (largely hollow) front of the vehicle cannot separate and form the standard robot mode, nor can the rear of the vehicle form the battlestation. Instead, the entire fire truck transforms into a simplified version of the super robot Battle Mode.

: This mold was also used to make ''Titanium Series'' [[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Zone]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2007/Autobot/TitRIDOptimusPrime/optimusprime.htm More information on ''Titanium'' Optimus Prime at TFU.info]''
{{--}}

==Merchandise==
===Transformers DX===

[[Image:Rid_prime_kabayakit1.jpg|right|225px|thumb|Puny BURNING JUSTICE]]

*'''Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Accessories:'' Pistol
:As part of [[Kabaya]]'s ''[[Transformers DX]]'' line of [[candy toy]]s, Optimus Prime was one of three pre-assembled transforming figurines packaged with lemon candy. Capable of transforming into only the cab portion of his vehicle mode, Prime's robot mode could also be upgraded into his Super Mode by attaching several additional armor pieces (two boots, two gauntlets, two arm-cannons, two shoulder guards, a head, a chest piece and a ladder), some of which came packaged with Prime himself, and the rest of which were split between the other two figures in the line, [[Rapid Run (RID)|Rapid Run]] and [[Prowl (RID)|Prowl]].
{{-}}

===Transformers Gum===
[[Image:Rid_prime_kabayakit2.jpg|right|225px|thumb|[[Scale|Out of scale]] BURNING JUSTICE]]

*'''Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' 1
**''Accessories:'' Pistol
:Part of Kabaya's ''[[Transformers Gum]]'' range of candy toys this version of Prime is a diminutive non-transforming snap-together model kit packaged with a stick of gum. Split across two plastic sprues, the kit is made of metallic silver and translucent red pieces with some painted details, which must be cut off their sprues and assembled by the buyer.

*'''Super Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' 2
:Prime's Super Mode also got representation in ''Transformers Gum''. Just as with his standard ''Gum'' figure, this one is likewise non-transforming, silver and translucent red, and packaged with gum.
{{-}}

===Trans Kit===
[[Image:Rid_prime_kabayakit3.jpg|right|225px|thumb|White Chocolate, Blueberry, and Cherry (not pictured) BURNING JUSTICE]]

*'''Super Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' 1
:Another model kit of Prime was released by Kabaya as part of their ''[[Trans Kit]]'' range of candy toys. This non-transforming figure was cast entirely in one color of plastic, but was available in either grey, blue or red. It came packaged in a two-piece box with candy-coated chocolates.

*'''Fire Convoy''' (2000)
**''Japanese ID number:'' 2
**''Accessories:'' Pistol
:Like his larger self, this version of Prime was also available in grey, blue and red plastic.
{{-}}

===KT Figure Collection===

* '''Ai-chan''' (2004)

[[Image:AI PVC.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Perverted BURNING JUSTICE]]
: This figurine was produced by [[KT Figure Collection]], and included in a set of four others. It is notable in that not only is this the only non-[[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] PVC in the entire set, but Ai-chan is portrayed bathing in a hot spring, and is thus completely nude, aside from her hat. A [[super deformed]] [[Optimus Prime (RID)|Super Fire Convoy]] is seen peeking over the side, and a miniature [[Sky-Byte (RID)|Gelshark]] bath toy is in Ai-chan's hands.

: Yes, it's creepy. And you may find her face is familiar, BECAUSE the figure is designed by [[Yūki Ōshima]], who did the [[Kiss Players (franchise)|creepiest thing]] in the [[Transformers brand|''Transformers'' brand]] ever.
{{-}}

===Robot Heroes===
* '''Optimus Prime''' / '''Megatron'''

[[Image:Robotheroesprimemegatron.jpg|right|300px|thumb|ADORABLE BURNING JUSTICE with [[Megatron (RID)|lazy madman]]]]
:Robot Heroes Optimus Prime is based on his "Battle mode" look, and is available with Megatron.

{{canceledtoy}}

{{--}}

==Notes==
* According to the first ''Car Robots'' toy catalog, Optimus and his Autobots are part of a "Dimensional Patrol" that followed the Predacons from another dimension. This seems to have been only vaguely alluded to in the Japanese version of the show—Fire Convoy proclaimed in the first episode that he would follow Gigatron wherever he went, "even if it's to the edge of the universe"—but does not seem to have played a large part of the main story, to the extent that the ''Robots in Disguise'' dub was able to omit it entirely. However, the [[3H]] supplemental materials for the ''Universe'' series re-established the idea, presenting the "Dimensional Patrol" as a post-cartoon organization.

* The first ''Car Robots'' catalog also stated that Fire Convoy and Gigatron were once "[[:Image:MangaYoungDeathyStarSaber.jpg|childhood friends]]" that became eternal rivals. We don't really have any idea how that was supposed to work.

* Fans in Japan joke that Optimus Prime is an Autobot [[Emperor of Destruction]] rather than an Autobot [[Supreme Commander]], due to his actions in the ''Car Robot'' anime.

* For this incarnation of Optimus, voice actor [[Neil Kaplan]] specifically impersonated the voice of the original [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]], [[Peter Cullen]]. ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime is one of the few Optimuses (two [[Optimus Prime (Animated)|as of 2008]]) whose English voice actor isn't Cullen or [[Garry Chalk]]. At conventions, Kaplan refers to himself as "the [[wikipedia:George_Lazenby|George Lazenby]] of Optimus Primes".<ref>This would presumably make [[David Kaye]] the [[wikipedia:Daniel_Craig|Daniel Craig]] of Optimus Primes.</ref>

* ''Cybertron'' "Multi-Pack" Optimus Prime's on-package [[bio]] seems to indicate he's ''Unicron Trilogy'' Optimus Prime. However, his (and Magnus') deco was later used in the [[Fun Publications]] ''Cybertron'' fan club magazine comic as ''Robots in Disguise'' Optimus Prime having traveled to the ''Unicron Trilogy'' universe.

* Optimus Prime's [[Super Mode]] chest resembles the chest of EnRyu from ''[[Brave|King of Braves GaoGaiGar]]'', another Takara series. EnRyu also transforms into a fire truck with a similarly positioned "ladder cannon".

*This is the first incarnation of Optimus not to be [[The many deaths of Optimus Prime|killed off]] at any point during his series. Possibly due to the fact that he is not intended to be [[Optimus Prime (disambiguation)|Optimus Prime]] in the original ''Car Robot'' series.

*Optimus was left out of the [[BotCon 2010]] [[Transformers Hall of Fame]] video tribute to Optimus Prime(s).

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Fire Convoy''' (ファイヤーコンボイ ''Faiyā Konboi'')

==Footnotes==
<references />

[[Category:Autobot leaders]]
[[Category:Combiners]]
[[Category:Costco exclusives]]
[[Category:Cybertron Autobots]]
[[Category:Dimension hoppers]]
[[Category:Matrix bearers]]
[[Category:Repurposed toys]]
[[Category:Robots in Disguise Autobots]]
[[Category:Sam's Club exclusives]]
[[Category:Spy Changers]]
[[Category:Titanium Series]]
[[Category:Universe (2008)]]
[[Category:Universe Autobots]]

Optimus Prime (G1)

2011-08-23T00:52:13Z

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{{factions|autobot|autobotg2|hofsilver}}
{{disambig3|Optimus Prime}}
{{suite}}
:''Optimus Prime is the leader of the [[Autobot]]s from the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''
[[Image:Optimusg1.jpg|right|350px|thumb|I'm that guy everyone remembers. No, not the [[Soundwave (G1)|tape guy]], the ''other'' guy.]]
'''Optimus Prime''' is the awe-inspiring [[Prime (rank)|leader]] of the [[Autobot]] forces. Originally a mere civilian, he was chosen by the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]] to command, the first in a number of heavy burdens he has been forced to bear. Another is his bringing of the [[Transformer]]s' conflict to Earth. The complete opposite of his mortal enemy [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], every casualty, [[human]] or [[Transformer|Cybertronian]], weighs heavily on his [[spark]]. He does not show this side to his soldiers, and he never succumbs to despair. The Autobots need a decisive, charismatic leader, and that is what he gives them. It was that leadership which turned the tide of the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]].

On the battlefield, there are few who rival Optimus Prime's prowess. He is easily the strongest of any Autobot his [[Scale|size]], and his [[ion blaster]] and his [[energon-axe]] are deadly weapons. He would sacrifice his life to protect his fellow Autobots or those under their care, and [[The many deaths of Optimus Prime|does so on a regular basis]]. His compassion for other sentient beings is his only real weakness, and one the Decepticons have taken advantage of time and again... though it's also the source of his strength!

Prime carries within him the [[Matrix of Leadership]].

Before being rebuilt into a [[Powermaster]], his robot mode split into three components:

*A sentient robot module, the [[Brain Center]].
*A wheeled drone module known as [[Roller (G1)|Roller]].
*A [[Combat Deck]].

Although Optimus Prime can function as three independent modules, injury to any one module is felt by the other two.

{{bigquote|Freedom is the right of all sentient beings.|Optimus Prime's most common [[bio]] quote}}

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
{{main|Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity}}
[[Image:CommandPerformances-Autobotsattack.jpg|left|thumb|300px|Don't worry, the multiple crises of conscience come soon enough.]]

Optimus Prime was a gladiator champion for [[Iacon (polity)|Iacon]] before quickly working his way up the Autobot ranks once [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] started the war. Four million years ago, when Decepticons attacked the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]], he personally chose to crash it onto [[Earth]], a decision that caused him much remorse when the war restarted on Earth in the modern day.

Though Optimus allowed himself to be destroyed when he betrayed his own moral code while playing a video game, a copy of his mind survived on a [[floppy disk]]. Years later, he was restored as a [[Powermaster]], binary bonded to the [[Nebulan]], [[Hi-Q]]. Optimus Prime slowly earned the respect of Decepticon leader [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]], mourned the loss of his friend [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]], and ultimately sacrificed everything to defeat [[Unicron]]. Though Optimus died again, his mind persisted in Hi-Q, and the [[Last Autobot]] was able to restore him as an [[Action Master]] in time to bring a temporary end to the war.

In [[Generation 2 (Marvel comic)|one universe]], Optimus Prime went on to battle [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]], his [[Cybertronian (faction)|Cybertronian troops]], and the [[Swarm (G2)|Swarm]]. In [[Classics (2006)|another]], fifteen years of peace passed before Megatron rose again.

{{-}}
===S.T.A.R.S. pack-in flyers===
[[Image:PackIn RodimusPrimeRemembers Inside2.jpg|right|thumb|250px|The fury of the "Road Warriors"... and Cosmos.]]
The Autobots were outnumbered and outgunned on Earth from the start, though Optimus was confident (and correct) that reinforcements from Cybertron would arrive. {{storylink|Reinforcements from Cybertron!}}

However, the situation was still so desperate that Optimus not only decided to recruit human allies {{storylink|The battle is far from over!}}, but aggressively tried to recruit and ''deputise'' human children, including giving them the power to co-ordinate Autobot teams in battles. He wouldn't even make a final move on the Decepticons until he had enough child soldiers on his side. {{storylink|Earthlings: THE S.T.A.R.S. need your help now!}} {{storylink|Have the Decepticons defeated us once and for all?}} In at least one case, this likely led to the ''death'' of a small boy at Decepticon hands. {{storylink|Can one boy, alone, hold back the evil Decepticons?}}

Optimus later led a convoy in search for a building site for [[Autobot City]], which ran into a Decepticon ambush. {{storylink|Rodimus Prime remembers the Transformers greatest battle on Earth.}} He sent off several Autobots to get help, knowing this was the only chance of victory. {{storylink|Transformers Combat Data}} Those several Autobots were seen again, but Prime... wasn't.

{{--}}
===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
{{main|Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity}}

[[Image:Mtmte2_shermandam.jpg|left|250px|thumb|He had this ax once. It was very memorable.]]

Before the war, Optimus Prime was originally '''Orion Pax''', a young dock worker with a girlfriend named [[Elita One|Ariel]]. But as the war began, Megatron destroyed them both, and [[Alpha Trion (G1)|Alpha Trion]] rebuilt them into more powerful warriors.

Four million years ago, Optimus Prime ended a Decepticon attack on the Ark by directing it towards prehistoric Earth. When both factions reawakened in [[1984]], Optimus Prime and the Autobots fought the Decepticons on numerous occasions until [[2005]]. During an attack on [[Autobot City]] on Earth, Prime fell in battle against Megatron and passed the [[Matrix of Leadership]] to [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ultra Magnus]].

Optimus Prime eventually returned, once as a [[zombie]], and again when he was rebuilt by the [[Quintesson]]s to stop the spread of the [[Hate Plague]].

The details between these events differ between universes. Sometimes Optimus Prime merged with [[Vector Sigma]] soon after defeating the Hate Plague, and returned much, much later as Star Convoy. Sometimes Optimus Prime partnered up with [[Marissa Faireborn]] to receive upgrades through mutual [[kiss]]ing. Sometimes... look, he did a lot of weird stuff, okay?

{{-}}
===Kid Stuff Talking Story Books===
:''Voice actor:'' Unknown
Optimus and Prowl received message from [[Jetfire (G1)|Skyfire]] of a coal transport in [[Africa]], and discovered Megatron was using human slaves. Megatron detonated his coal mines with the world's largest explosion, killing the humans and forging the world's largest diamond — that he would use to as a lens for a [[Crystal satellite|satellite]] to focus the Sun's beams, melting the [[Rocky Mountains]]! Prime ordered Skyfire to attack the satellite, and [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] to build a square mile panel of metal to deflect the beam, blowing the satellite up. {{storylink|Satellite of Doom}} The Decepticons attempted to drain the [[Prudhoe Bay oil reservoir]], causing volcanic eruptions and Russia to approach America, accelerating tensions between the countries. Optimus ordered [[razon gas]] to be pumped into the resevoir, returning the oil below and raising the Decepticons' aquatic drill. {{storylink|When Continents Collide}}

Accompanied by Prowl, Optimus went to [[Sumatra]] and discovered much of the jungle had been destroyed. The Decepticons tried to destroy the [[Brazil]]ian jungle and take its oil, but once again the Autobots stopped them. {{storylink|Storms of Destruction}} Following a battle between the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobot]]s and the Decepticons, Optimus ordered [[Slag (G1)|Slag]] be repaired by Ratchet at their [[Antarctica|Antarctic]] oil supply. Tracking Slag, Megatron attempted to destroy the base with the [[Crusher]], slicing icebergs off the continent. Optimus ordered [[Autobot superjet]]s to counterattack, but the battle was won when Megatron unwittingly reawakened hundreds of dormant Dinobots beneath the ice. {{storylink|Jaws of Terror}} Optimus and Prowl were baffled by Megatron's next strategy, a series of hit-and-run attacks in the Pacific rim. It emerged it was a distraction from the enslavement of the population of [[Buru]]. Optimus, Prowl and the Dinobots arrived and fought off the [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]], foiling the scheme to drain the island's oil. {{storylink|Slaves of the Insecticons}} When Megatron planned to drain the world's largest supertanker, Optimus had the oil tainted with a corrosive acid, sabotaging the Decepticon submersible. The Autobots flew the tanker to [[New York City]], and ordered the few witnesses' memory to be wiped. Wow. {{storylink|Attack of the Decepticons}}

===Big Looker Story Books===
[[Image:KidsPrime1.jpg|right|250px|thumb|And the fluffy kitten played with that yarn all gosh-darn night.]]
After a thousand years of war on Cybertron, the planet was shaken from its orbit and risked being smashed to pieces by an asteroid field. Optimus decided to take a group of Autobots in the Ark and destroy the asteroids, but they were attacked by the Decepticons, and Optimus crashed the ship on Earth. Four million years later, the Ark repaired them, and they encountered [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]] and [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]]. Sparkplug suggested to Prime that the Autobots tap the volcano they'd crashed into for power. The two humans also warned the Autobots of an impending Decepticon attack, and Optimus laid a trap. Unfortunately the Decepticon forces attacked from all directions, and [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]'s [[null-ray]] put Optimus out of commission. Luckily Sparkplug easily fixed him, and his fast recovery inspired the Autobots to chase the Decepticons off. Optimus vowed to protect this new world. {{storylink|Battle for Cybertron}}

When a two-part race was being held with a massive supply of oil and gasoline as the prize, both the Decepticons and the Autobots badly wanted to win it. Megatron entered the race by hiding himself inside a hollowed-out car and harassed [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] all throughout the contest. When Prime discovered the car was being driven by his arch foe, he swiftly pulled a telephone pole out from the ground and used it to bash the mortal hell out of the cheating Decepticon. Thanks to Prime's violent intervention, Cliffjumper was able to win the race. Afterward, Optimus Prime celebrated the Minibot's victory with a gargantuan smile as all the Decepticons starved to death. {{storylink|The Great Car Rally}}

The morning after a particularly vicious battle, Optimus listened to birdsong and pondered life as a giant robot, before asking [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] and [[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]] for a damage report. The Autobots were puzzled when the Decepticon [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]s (and [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] and [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]) did a flyby on their camp, as the Decepticons were similarly damaged after the battle, but [[Shooting Star]] reported that the Decepticons were trying to distract them while an attempt was made to secure a broken-down oil truck a few miles away. Optimus took a small group to investigate, and successfully aided the [[Abe Walters|humans]] in getting their truck moving. [[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]] was instrumental in stopping the Decepticon attack, and Optimus commended the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobot]] for his valor. {{storylink|Decepticon Hijack}}

On another beautiful day, Optimus sat under a tree with [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] and [[Hound (G1)|Hound]], discussing the Decepticons. A while later, [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] reported that [[Grapple]] had shot at him. Optimus smelled a Decepticon plot and led an assault on their headquarters, only to find that Grapple had been injected with a [[cerebro-shell]], placing him in Decepticon control. Battle commenced, during which Grapple was freed and helped them defeat the Decepticon. Afterward Optimus said it all had been worth it to get Grapple back. {{storylink|Insecticon Attack!}}

{{-}}
===Ladybird Books continuity===
:''Voice actor:'' [[Peter Marinker]] (English)

[[Image: Ladybird_prime_transforms.jpg|left|thumb|250px|The ghost of Optimus Prime possesses...himself?]]
Upon witnessing the incredible power of a lightning storm for the first time, Optimus Prime had Sparkplug Witwicky explain the phenomenon to him. Intrigued by the potential of lightning, Prime put [[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]] and [[Gears (G1)|Gears]] to work finding a way to harness its energy, so they could use it to aid in the rebuilding of their spaceship. Huffer constructed a giant lightning rod, and Optimus Prime and the Autobots gathered to watch its first test. They were shocked, however, when a fleet of battered, damaged Decepticons flew out of the mountain housing the antenna and off into the night. The evil robots had attempted to discover the device's secrets and been seriously electrocuted! Once the lightning rod had been checked, Prime vowed to make the lightning-harnessing technology the Autobots' gift to Earth once they had left the planet. {{storylink|Autobots' Lightning Strike}}

When the Decepticons tried to take control of a solar energy station, Prime sent Roller in to investigate. {{storylink|Megatron's Fight for Power}} Later, Prime sent [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] to spy on the Decepticons' latest misdeeds, and the Autobots discovered that they were having trouble with the ion drive of their starship. Prime led the Autobots in an attack on the mine the Decepticons were using to test their propulsion system and routed Megatron's force. {{storylink|Autobots Fight Back}}

Optimus Prime grew concerned when [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] picked up a communication from [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] that indicated the Decepticons had grown interested in a mysterious structure near a human village. Prime and a team of Autobots headed out to investigate, and they battled the Decepticons over the structure, which turned out to be a harmless windmill. {{storylink|Laserbeak's Fury}}

[[Image:Ladybird_powermaster_prime.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Invisible keyboard solo!]]

At some point, Optimus Prime disappeared under mysterious circumstances, and [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] arrived from Cybertron to take his place as Autobot commander. {{storylink|Galvatron's Air Attack}} Prime eventually returned many centuries later, now sporting a [[Powermaster]] body, and rejoined the Transformers' war after it had moved from Earth to the alien planet of [[Nebulos]].

When [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] was captured by the Decepticon leader [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]], Optimus Prime agreed to surrender himself to ensure his fellow Autobot's safety. Naturally, though, Prime did not expect Scorponok to hold up his end of the bargain, and he had [[Hosehead]] and [[Fizzle]] rescue Highbrow while he allowed himself to be imprisoned. Their mission successful, Hosehead and Fizzle then sprang Prime from his cell, and the team beat a hasty retreat. {{storylink|Autobot Hostage}}

After weeks of Decepticon silence, Optimus Prime decided to get proactive and sent out patrols all over the planet to try and flush the villains out. None of the patrols reported back with any success, however, and Prime realized that there was one area of the planet that his troops had deliberately ignored: the mysterious "[[Nebulos Triangle]]". [[Quickswitch]], [[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] and [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] were sent into the Triangle, and they did indeed discover and foil the Decepticon plot going on in the area. {{storylink|Decepticons Underground}}
{{--}}

===''Transformers in 3-D''===
Not long after his resurrection, Optimus was alerted by [[Monitorus]] to an attack on [[Tau-Ursa]]. Optimus's impending speech was interrupted by a Decepticon attack led by [[Sixshot]]. Prime soon discovered that the attack was a diversion, while Galvatron tried out his [[Nullification Cannon]] on Cybertron's Energon supplies. Optimus rushed to the Energon plant, but, after clouting [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] so hard that the Decepticon was left dangling over a precipice, Prime's morals forced him to rescue the Decepticon instead of stopping Galvatron from getting away.

Although Cybertron's Energon stocks were destroyed, the Autobots discovered a recording pointing to the [[Logicon]] planet [[Metascan Alpha]], which had Energon in abundance. Optimus ordered Hot Rod and Ultra Magnus to take a team each to find the planet. The Autobots discovered they were being spied on by the Decepticon [[Clone (subgroup)|Clone]]s, and Optimus swore that Galvatron could pay. He led a team to the derelict space destroyer which the Decepticons were using for a base and fought their leader one-on-one. As he was about to destroy the Nullification Cannon, [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] took a swing at him which connected instead with the Cannon, obliterating it. Optimus was helped away from the destruction by [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] and [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]]. {{storylink|The War Against the Destructons, Chapter 1 of 3}}

===''Transformers PD Type'' comic===
[[Image:PDtype-Matrixattack.jpg|left|thumb|250px|This is the highlight of this entire page.]]

When a horde of time-displaced Decepticons joined forces to hunt down the five [[Blackball]]s, a super energy source, Optimus Prime gathered a team of time-displaced Autobots to help stop them.

In one encounter with his arch-foe [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], they reenacted their epic struggle from the [[Battle of Autobot City]]. However, this time around, Prime avoided dying by launching his "Matrix Attack"...''literally'' launching the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]] from his chest, bonking Megatron on the head. {{storylink|Transformers PD Type##1 "You're Great! Optimus Prime!"|You're Great! Optimus Prime!}}

Later, Optimus Prime and [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] concocted a cunning strategy. They disguised a round, black cartoon explosive as a Blackball and gave it to [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]. Starscream promptly brought it to Megatron, where it blew both of them up. Optimus and Magnus were astounded their plan actually worked. {{storylink|Transformers PD Type##3 "Don't Cry! Megatron!!"|Don't Cry! Megatron!!}}

In one of his less impressive moments, after running out of ammo during a battle with [[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]], Optimus Prime ordered his fellow Autobots to improvise and hurl everything that wasn't nailed down at their enemy. This included the Blackball, unfortunately. Catching it, Deathsaurus began to fantasize about his inevitable galactic conquest, all the while being pelted with rocks and litter. Frustrated, Deathsaurus accidentally hurled the Blackball back to the Autobots in a fit of rage. {{storylink|Transformers PD Type##4 "Good Job! Deathsaurus!!"|Good Job! Deathsaurus!!}}
{{-}}

===''Comic Bom Bom G-2'' comic===
[[Image:G2Hero.jpg|right|200px|thumb|GAH, HE'S LOOKING AT ME!]]
In the year 199X, the Decepticons had learned of a powerful new energy source known as [[forestonite]] which just happened to be located (surprise surprise) on [[Earth]]. Megatron sent his trio of [[Cyberjet]]s to Earth first to draw out the enemy Autobots. The Cyberjets made quick work of [[Electro]] but were soon halted by the appearance of Optimus Prime.

Megatron then entered the fray and fired his Black Hole Burn attack from his fusion cannon, narrowly missing Optimus Prime but vaporizing [[Hooligan (G2)|Hooligan]] in the process. Prime fought fiercely but Megatron began to take the upper-hand in battle.

However, Prime was encouraged to keep fighting by the cheers of a human boy named [[Junpei]]. Megatron, surprised at Prime's resilience, attempted to finish his foe off with his Tornado Axe attack. Prime countered with his Double Wheel-Torque Mega-Ton, which trumped Megatron's attack and injured the Decepticon badly. Megatron teleported back to his ship and left Earth's atmosphere, vowing to return.

Optimus Prime addressed Junpei, asking if the boy was injured. Junpei revealed he was alright but presented concern about the Decepticons returning to Earth. Optimus Prime swore that the Autobots would remain on Earth until the threat of the Decepticons was finished and asked for Junpei's help in making that future a reality. {{storylink|The New Battle!!}}

===''Beast Wars'' cartoon continuity===
====''Beast Wars'' cartoon====
[[Image:G1Prime BWMegs.jpg|left|180px|thumb|You have to get up preeeeetty early in the timestream to beat Optimus Prime!]]

The [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]] raged on prehistoric Earth, eventually leading to the discovery of the buried Ark sometime after its crash on prehistoric Earth. [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]], following [[Megatron (G1)|his namesake's]] instructions in a desperate gambit, decided to attempt to change history by killing Prime, who was still lying in the Ark in [[stasis lock]]. Megatron hoped that this would result in the Decepticons winning the Great War and eventually [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]] control of Cybertron. Megatron unleashed a full-power weapon blast at Optimus Prime's face, near-fatally injuring him. {{storylink|The Agenda (Part III)}} However, [[Optimus Primal]] proceeded to take Prime's spark into his body to protect it from surgical trauma while his injuries were repaired. The subsequent power increase caused by Prime's spark's connection to the Matrix mutated Primal into a large, [[Transmetal]] "Optimal Optimus" form. Then, with the repairs complete, Prime's spark was restored, and he briefly activated before sinking back into normal stasis. {{storylink|Optimal Situation}}

Sometime after the Autobots and Decepticons awoke in the 1980s, the original Megatron gained access to one of Earth's ''Voyager'' spacecraft and inscribed a message on the [[Golden Disk (Voyager)|disk]] on board. In the event that he lost the War, Megatron left instructions for the descendants of the Decepticons to use [[transwarp]] technology to travel to Prehistoric Earth, locate the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]], and change history by killing Optimus Prime. {{storylink|The Agenda (Part 2)}}

====''Beast Machines'' cartoon====
[[Image:Sparkwar2_Optimus_hologram_primal.jpg|right|200px|thumb|]]
:''Voice actor'': [[Garry Chalk]] (English), [[Tilo Schmitz]] (German)

Optimus appears to have fallen in "the final battle" against the Decepticons. {{storylink|Sparkwar Pt. II: The Search}}

An enormous [[Optimus Prime memorial|statue]] of Optimus Prime, bearing two [[Golden Disk (disambiguation)|Golden Disks]], could be seen on Cybertron in front of the Hall of Archives. The statue was subsequently blown to pieces by the [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon forces]]. {{storylink|Fires of the Past}} Later, Megatron beamed a hologram of Optimus Prime down to the ruins of [[Iacon (polity)|Iacon]] to confront [[Optimus Primal]], claiming to contain the "essence" of the real Prime that had been stored here since the Final Battle. Primal was conned by this and was tricked by the hologram into accessing the [[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]]. Megatron seized control of the Oracle code and quickly revealed his ruse. Primal explained to his Maximals that he knew the image was fake, but he needed the location of the missing [[spark]]s from Megatron's mind. {{storylink|Sparkwar Pt. II: The Search}}

{{note|Writer [[Bob Skir]] claims that neither the statue nor the golden disks in its hands were mentioned in 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.}}

====3H comics====
[[Image:Sparkholderprimevaldawn.jpg|left|190px|thumb|"Oh, I also have this in me now, too."]]

After the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]], Optimus Prime disappeared with other legends into the mysterious location on Cybertron dubbed [[J'nwan]]. When the warlord [[Shokaract]], powered by [[Unicron]]'s [[Dark Essence]], traveled into the past to secure his own future, a [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]] named [[Sandstorm (BW)|Sandstorm]] traversed the confusing mists of J'nwan to seek out its occupants to help. Sandstorm prevailed and brought Optimus, Megatron, Soundwave, and Grimlock with him to prehistoric Earth during the time of the [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]] where a battle with Shokaract had already begun. When Sandstorm (secretly Scorpius) and the rest of the [[Covenant]] arrived to vanquish the Dark Essence and defeat Shokaract, Optimus Prime and the others escaped through portals as that timeline was paradoxed from existence. {{storylink|Terminus}}

After the Beast Wars had ended and the Maximals and Predacons that survived it had headed home, the Vok entered the Ark and removed the Matrix of Leadership from an unconscious Optimus Prime. They used it to create [[Primal Prime]], and then gave the Matrix to their new creation. {{storylink|Primeval Dawn Part 1}}

{{note|In the ''Beast Wars'' cartoon, Prime's spark was shown to be contained in a Matrix-like vessel. In [[Universe (2003 comic)|Primeval Dawn]], that vessel was shown to be merely a container for his spark, and the actual Matrix was hidden underneath. ''Primeval Dawn'' was never completed, but presumably the Matrix was returned to Optimus Prime's body before Primal Prime returned to Cybertron.}}

As the [[Universe war|Universe conflict]] began, [[Optimus Primal]] was shown a myriad of Transformers from across all timelines that he could choose to recruit into his [[Child of Primus|Children of Primus]] in the battle against the [[Minion of Unicron|Minions of Unicron]]. One such possibility was a Transformer who was either [[Thunder Clash]] or Optimus Prime, but, regardless, Primal chose [[Depth Charge (BW)|Depth Charge]] and [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox instead]].

{{-}}

===''Beast Wars Metals'' comic===
[[Image:CheetasManga1.jpg|right|100px|thumb|Cheetor, that's Prime's Spark, not a toy.]]
Optimus Prime was blasted into pieces by Dragon Megatron. Fortunately, his spark remained perfectly intact—in the remains of his [[Optimal Situation|Matrix-shaped spark chamber]]. Megatron was going to destroy Prime's spark, but [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] (now in his Transmetal body) saved it. Prime's spark was eventually swallowed by Optimus Primal, who was upgraded into Optimal Optimus by doing so.

After Megatron was killed by Optimal Optimus, Primal and his crew said it would be troublesome to fix Optimus Prime's body.
{{-}}

{{cleanup|November 2009|Needs storylinks to relevant issues or whatever these came from.}}

===''Transformers Legends'' anthology===
When Bumblebee, Hound and Spike brought a badly-damaged Starscream back to the Ark, Optimus struggled with the ethical implications of allowing Wheeljack and Ratchet to mess with the Decepticon's logic circuits, but gave them the go ahead. Starscream proved to be amnesic, and Optimus was able to take the opportunity to help him as much as possible, even physically preventing Megatron from retrieving his former lieutenant when Starscream opted to stay with the Autobots. Though Starscream left as soon as he regained his memory, Prime reflected that they'd learned that maybe it was possible to reason with a Decepticon. {{storylink|Redemption Center}}

After passing the Matrix to Ultra Magnus and expiring in the aftermath of the [[battle of Autobot City]], Optimus Prime found himself in [[Maccadam's Old Oil House]]. There he encountered Optimus Primal and another [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] from a [[Unicron Trilogy|different universe]]. Together, the four of them overcame the other Optimus Prime's doubts about his leadership, before returning to their respective time lines. {{storylink|Prime Spark}}

{{note|The following takes place in a version of Dreamwave comic continuity}}
While the Autobots were boarding the Ark, Optimus voiced his lack of confidence in his leadership, before welcoming aboard [[Geosensus]], who was incapable of transforming to robot mode. Four million years later, Prime and [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] found the Ark was under attack and defended it with deadly force. In examining the wreckage of the attackers, they realised that the robot Optimus had destroyed was not a Decepticon but Geosensus, who had forced himself to transform in an attempt to fight off the Decepticons. Though Prime was willing to take the rap, Prowl insisted on covering up the mistake to protect Optimus's image as a leader. {{storylink|Parts}}

{{-}}

===Dreamwave comics continuity===
{{notekeepers}}
[[Image:Optronix optimus.jpg|left|180px|thumb|What? OPTRONIX is evolving!]]
Optimus Prime started life as '''Optronix''' ''('''Orion''' to his friends)'', {{storylink|Hardwired}} a data archivist at the [[Vaults]]. After taking note of a battle in which the Autobot leader [[Sentinel Prime (G1)|Sentinel Prime]] had been defeated by Megatron, he was summoned to the [[Council of Ancients]] and informed that the Matrix had chosen him to be the next leader of the Autobots. He received the Matrix of Leadership shortly thereafter, gaining a powerful new body in the process. After dispatching a Decepticon assassination squad sent to, well, assassinate him, he ordered the Autobots to prepare to evacuate Cybertron, intending to leave the Decepticons to their own devices. {{storylink|The War Within issue 1|The War Within #1}}

As he and Prowl discussed the wisdom of evacuating, a huge explosion obliterated the [[Forum of Enlightenment]]. Optimus led a team there, realising that the destruction was a message from Megatron. Leaving his team, he ventured underground, encountering [[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]], who blasted him into a pit. {{storylink|The War Within issue 2|The War Within #2}} Exploring the underground, Prime had a strange vision of a transparent version of himself, which warned that he must grasp Cybertron's significance. Then he was attacked by [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] and the [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticon]]s, whom he was able to easily best. As Optimus encountered [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] in person for the first time, [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] blasted the bridge they were standing on, plunging them into yet another chasm. {{storylink|The War Within issue 3|The War Within #3}} Recovering, Prime heard another disembodied voice telling him about Cybertron. Before he could look for a way out, Megatron found him, and informed him about the true nature of the Matrix. This spurred Optimus to fight back, but before long, Megatron took control of the battle, smashing his fist into Prime's chest to get at the Matrix. A blaze of light enveloped the pair, who found themselves abruptly on 20th century [[Earth]]. {{storylink|The War Within issue 4|The War Within #4}}

As Megatron explained that the Matrix was giving them a vision of the future, they witnessed themselves battling on [[Sherman Dam]]. The nature of their surroundings established, Megatron resumed the scheduled beating, but a series of setting shifts ended with Optimus reunited with [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]]. Grimlock handed Prime a sword and suggested he finish Megatron for good. {{storylink|The War Within issue 5|The War Within #5}} Optimus found Megatron again, engaging him in combat and announcing that he was playing the game by Megatron's rules now — without mercy. A short time later, he joined the other Autobots in attacking the Decepticons who were trying to use Cybertron's giant engines. Grimlock was finally impressed with Prime. They arrived back at [[Iacon (polity)|Iacon]] to find it destroyed, but Optimus announced they were no longer evacuating the planet and threw away the [[Golden Disk (council)|Golden Disk]] full of the knowledge of his predecessors which the council had given him, saying he would choose his own course. {{storylink|The War Within issue 6|The War Within #6}}

Some time into his role as leader, Optimus Prime disappeared in a [[space bridge]] explosion along with Megatron, {{storylink|Fragmentation}} but returned some time later, having spent a period of time on [[Quintessa]].

{{note|Due to the closure of Dreamwave, Optimus's return to Cybertron was never depicted.}}

[[Image:DWPrimeDirective1 Sparkplug newspaper.jpg|250px|thumb|]]

Following the awakening of the Transformers on Earth, the Autobots protected the planet from the Decepticons. Over the next fifteen years, the Autobots befriended the humans, particularly the [[Witwicky|Witwicky family]]. The Autobots finally allied with humankind and eventually defeated the Decepticons at the turn of the century. They planned to return to Cybertron aboard the newly constructed ''[[Ark II]]'', along with [[Magnificent Seven|seven humans]], including Witwicky patriarch [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]]. Before the ship departed, Prime gave a piece of the Matrix to [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]], Sparkplug's son and [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]]'s closest human friend. But the ship was destroyed as part of a military conspiracy to take control of the Transformers.

Optimus Prime's body was hauled out of the Arctic Ocean by the US military. While a terrorist organization run by the enigmatic [[Lazarus]] was able to seize control of several of the other Transformers that fell back to Earth, the military worked unsuccessfully to reactivate Prime. They eventually called in Spike Witwicky. {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 1|Prime Directive #1}} Spike was forced by the project chief, General [[Robert Hallo]], to use the piece of the Matrix to reactivate Prime. Functional again, Prime used the Matrix to reactivate more of his fallen comrades. {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 2|Prime Directive #2}}

The Autobots helped repair a [[Smitco Oil Refinery]] site which the Lazarus-controlled Transformers had attacked. Optimus had no answer for Spikes accusation that the Transformers' presence on Earth was responsible for the destruction. When Megatron's activities at Lazarus's base were spotted by the military, Optimus insisted on the Autobots going in without backup. They discovered Megatron in the middle of a plan to reformat Earth into a new Cybertron using a [[cyber-virus]]. Optimus rejected Megatron's suggestion he should just let it happen, but while the two factions fought, the human military unleashed [[Operation Clean-Up]], dropping a bomb on them. {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 3|Prime Directive #3}}

The energy of the explosion absorbed by the virus, the Autobots dug themselves out and set about recovering their fellows whom Megatron had used to power the cyber-virus in its early stages. [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] passed on a message from Megatron — there was a surprise in store for the Autobot leader. Optimus and some Autobots including [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] sped to [[San Francisco]], where Megatron had unleashed [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]. As Prime battled Megatron, he took time to save three humans who were threatened by falling debris, only for the humans to turn on him. The defeat of Superion turned the tide of the battle against the Autobots. {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 4|Prime Directive #4}}

[[Image:DWPrimeDirective6 Autobots wanttheirheads.jpg|thumb|left|300px|Optimus sets a [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|trend]].]]

Never one to give up, Optimus managed to down Devastator in return, only to find himself at Megatron's mercy. The Decepticon leader pointed out to him the humans' self-obsessed behavior in the face of the devastation, suggesting the fleshlings were worthless, and the Autobots should join the Decepticons in wiping them out. {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 5|Prime Directive #5}} The heroic actions of a team of firefighters and other humans proved to Optimus that the humans were worth saving, and the Autobots delivered a smackdown on the Decepticons. The fight was interrupted by the news that a nuclear missile was inbound, and despite Prime's protests, Superion sacrificed himself intercepting it. Prime recovered from the shock wave to find that the Decepticons had fled. He appealed to Grimlock to return to the Autobot ranks, an offer turned down by the Dinobot. {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 6|Prime Directive #6}}

Following this, Prime began to experience subconscious urgings, leading both the Autobots and the Decepticons to the Arctic Circle, where Shockwave arrived to greet them—and arrest them as war criminals. Shockwave had succeeded in ending the war on Cybertron, and brought a team of [[Triple Changer]]s to apprehend them. As Optimus stared down [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]]'s cannon barrel, he was saved by Grimlock, though he subsequently had to order a retreat. Prowl convinced him to let a small team stay as recon while the others returned to the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] and discussed the change in situation. {{storylink|New World Order}} Though Optimus was puzzled by [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] having fallen in with Shockwave, he had little other choice, and surrendered to Magnus. Despite being bound, he took the first opportunity he got to make his feelings clear. Prime and those of his Autobots who had also surrendered were put on a shuttle back to Cybertron, where Shockwave planned to have them deactivated. {{storylink|Brothers' Burden}}

Stewing in a cell, Optimus blamed himself for their predicament, but he and the Autobots were soon rescued by [[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]] and [[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]]. Sandstorm and Optimus traveled through Cybertron's [[Old Slave Trails]], only to find themselves ambushed by [[Runabout (G1)|Runabout]], who swiftly killed Sandstorm, and then the Decepticon was attacked by a [[Sharkticon (G1)|Sharkticon]], which lunged at Prime. {{storylink|Cold War (issue)|Cold War}} Prime recovered to find himself in the care of a group of Autobot rebels including [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]], [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] and [[Kup (G1)|Kup]]. They revealed to Optimus that Shockwave had been transmitting subliminal signals to increase Transformer aggression. {{storylink|Passive Aggression}}

Optimus was able to rally Autobot factions from across Cybertron to the cause and launch an all-out attack on Shockwave's fortress. Shown the image of Shockwave blasting Ultra Magnus, Optimus charged in to confront the Decepticon, only to be overpowered and the Matrix ripped from his chest in order to activate Vector Sigma. {{storylink|Countdown to Extinction (issue)|Countdown to Extinction}} Stalling, Prime listened as Shockwave recounted the history of Cybertron, and eventually Ultra Magnus arrived, having recovered, to attack and defeat Shockwave. Prime and Grimlock helped him escape from the fortress as it crumbled to the ground. {{storylink|Revelation (War and Peace)|Revelation}} The injuries Prime took in this conflict necessitated a prolonged restoration period in stasis. {{storylink|Black Sunshine}}

{{note|...which turned out to be the remainder of Dreamwave's existence. Bummer.}}

===''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers''===
[[Image:GIJoevsTFcobraprime.jpg|right|275px|thumb|G.1. Joe—the real universal hero!]]
In the early stages of the war, Optimus Prime was an archivist, watching the battles from afar and keeping records of them. This all changed when the [[Matrix of Leadership]] chose him to lead the Autobots in battle. {{storylink|The Art of War issue 2|The Art of War #2}} Shortly after he ascended to Primehood, [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] tried to kill him, but failed. {{storylink|Black Horizon, Part 1 of 2|Black Horizon, Part 1}}

Several Autobots and Decepticons, including Optimus Prime, were reformatted into will-less war machines under the control of [[Cobra]]. During an initial attack on a human peace conference, Cobra's remote control of Optimus (whom they had nicknamed "[[HISS tank|HISS-14]]") mysteriously failed. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 1|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue #1}} Later at Cobra's [[Cobra Island|island headquarters]] in the Caribbean, Cobra scientists pulled Optimus apart to find out what was impeding their commands. As this analysis took place, Optimus reverse hacked into Cobra computers until they shut him down in a panic. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 2|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers #2}} Despite this, Prime sent a viral message out to hundreds of email addresses that included the coordinates of Cobra's base. The message was intercepted by [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]] who teamed up with Wheeljack and Bumblebee. After Wheeljack broke the remote control over the Transformers, Prime went after [[Cobra Commander]]. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 3|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers #3}} More than a bit frightened of a giant robot gunning for him, the human released Megatron, who was trapped in gun model. Megatron transformed and fought Prime to a standstill until other Autobots came to back him up. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 4|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers #4}}

Although he was weak and low on [[Energon (fuel)|energon]], Prime made a last-ditch effort to save the day when he rammed through the wall of Megatron's energon-producing lab. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 5|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers #5}} After a quick recharge, Optimus single-handedly smashed the Decepticons, pounded Megatron to the ground, and ripped his [[fusion cannon]] off his arm. Prime then teamed up with the Joes and used Megatron's cannon to shoot down the [[SPS Satellite]] that had gone rogue and was destroying the island.

With the battle over, Prime and the Autobots boarded a new ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'' ship built by G.I. Joe and returned to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers issue 6|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers #6}}

[[Image:GIJoevstfIIprime1930s.jpg|left|275px|thumb|Retro Convoy: TRANSFORM!!!]]
On a Cybertron dominated by [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] and the Decepticons, Optimus Prime and the Autobots took on the roles of resistance fighters. Cobra experimentation transported a contingent of Cobras and G.I. Joes to Cybertron and destabilized [[Teletran 3]], which led to the computer sending several Transformers to [[Earth]] across different time periods. When Optimus Prime saw Jazz get zapped by Teletran 3, he leapt to rescue his soldier, only to be transported away as well. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II issue 1|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II #1}} A team made up of Joes and Cobra agents were sent back and found Optimus Prime and the [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]] in 1930s-era Chicago, disguised as period cars and trucks. The Stunticons chased Prime and the Joes around the city until everything was wrapped up with bullets, a collapsed bridge and some dynamite. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II issue 2|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II #2}}

After the Transformers and humans were returned to present-day Cybertron and the Decepticons were vanquished by the recently-arrived [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]], Prime made an agreement with the Joes to destroy the technology that started the whole mess in order to protect Earth. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II issue 4|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II #4}}

On Cybertron, Optimus Prime kicked back to do a little bit of paperwork and reminisce. With Shockwave defeated, Cybertron was enjoying a new era of peace. He was interrupted by Hot Rod, who reported that a group of "pesky humans with their peashooters" were giving an Autobot team on Earth a hard time. Prime suspected Cobra's involvement and counseled Hot Rod not to be so dismissive of the humans. {{storylink|The Art of War issue 1|The Art of War #1}} When the team returned to Cybertron and mysteriously vanished in the [[Gladiator Zone]], Prime was prepared to go search for them, but was convinced by Hot Rod to stay behind and organize a peace ceremony. {{storylink|The Art of War issue 2|The Art of War #2}}

Later, at the peace celebration, Prime was watching a procession of Autobots when Decepticons attacked. Optimus ordered [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] into action but the huge Autobot was quickly overcome by [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]], [[Piranacon (G1)|Piranacon]] and [[Predaking]]. {{storylink|The Art of War issue 3|The Art of War #3}} Prime hopped into the fray, saved a [[Optimus Prime's rescuees|civilian]] from getting smushed by the falling Omega, rode [[Sixshot]] into Piranacon's face, smashed [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] into the ground, and carried a [[Optimus Prime's rescuees|wounded civilian]] out of danger.

[[Image:Primevsserpentor.jpg|right|175px|thumb|Serpent O.R. soon realized that "This I command!" doesn't work on Optimus Prime.]]
Menasor cut off Prime's escape and handed him the [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]] trio, who confronted Prime with a hologram of [[Serpentor|Serpent O.R.]] The new Decepticon leader carried Megatron's memories and information downloaded from Soundwave, from which he learned of the Matrix of Leadership. Serpent O.R. offered Optimus a trade: hostages and peace if he handed over the Matrix. Optimus agreed.

In his stronghold, Serpent O.R. questioned Prime about his own worthiness to carry the Matrix, but Optimus broke free of his chains and aggressively ordered him to surrender. {{storylink|The Art of War issue 4|The Art of War #4}} A group of Decepticons broke in and nearly took Prime apart, but not before Serpent O.R. took the Matrix for himself and changed into the massive Serpentor Prime. The Matrix showed Serpentor Prime the error of his ways but as he was about to commit suicide Cobra Commander tripped a device and took over Serpentor Prime's body. Moments before he crushed Arcee, a severely damaged Optimus Prime threw Hawk toward the Matrix but warned the human not to touch the artifact. Hawk did so anyway and through a quasi-mystical transfer of power Serpentor Prime was vanquished.

Later repaired by a [[Paradron Medic|female nursebot]], Optimus went back to finishing his paperwork. A leader's job is never done. {{storylink|The Art of War issue 5|The Art of War #5}}

Sensing a new, yet old, danger to planet Earth, Prime elected to send himself to earth on an investigation, and gave Hot Rod a glare when the young Autobot accused his leader of taking an unnecessary risk to atone for the death of a [[Bumblebee (G1)|close friend]].

Optimus Prime landed in the Himalayan Mountains with G.I. Joes [[Flint (G.I. Joe)|Flint]] and [[Hawk (G.I. Joe)|Hawk]]. As they searched the area, the trio was attacked by [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] in his [[Pretender]] shell. Prime whacked him with his [[energon-axe]] and in return Bludgeon bearhugged him and coated him in metal-eating slime. Hawk, still carrying power from the Matrix, helped Prime break free. Optimus then shot his way into the hidden kingdom of [[Cobra-La]].

While they wandered through the tunnels, the Joes and Prime found cave paintings that described the last visit to Earth by the planet-eating god [[Unicron]]. They were attacked again by Bludgeon and Cobra-La minions, but were led away by a ragged [[Joe Colton]], prisoner of Cobra-La for the last 25 years. {{storylink|Black Horizon, Part 1 of 2|Black Horizon, Part 1}} Bludgeon managed to find them again and during a second battle Prime tore open the Pretender's shell, revealing Bludgeon's robot form inside. Bludgeon tripped and dangled dangerously over a chasm, but rather than let Optimus Prime save him, Bludgeon forced Prime to drop him to his death laughing all the way down.

The Joes discovered a cavern where the people of Cobra-La were growing [[metal-eating spore]]s as a last defense against Unicron. Flint and [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] took a load of the spores into space just as Unicron appeared in Earth orbit. Prime, Hawk and Colton headed deeper into Cobra-La to rescue [[Firewall]] and kick butt. Prime was tackled and pinned by a giant bug creature, but made a dramatic recovery and tossed the bug aside. He then took the machine-hating Cobra-La leader [[Golobulus]] to task with a single punch. Flint and Cosmos released the spores, which devoured Unicron from the inside and defeated the giant Transformer before he could harm [[Earth]].

With the threat of Unicron gone, Prime relaxed with [[Eject]] and Firewall by watching some reality TV, and sighed at the banality. {{storylink|Black Horizon, Part 2 of 2|Black Horizon, Part 2}}

===''Transformers/G.I. Joe''===
Optimus Prime and his troops lay deactivated on the [[Fera Islands]] for three million years until [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]] stumbled upon them one day in [[1939]]. {{storylink|The Line}} The Autobots were reactivated by a [[Sky Spy|repair drone]] and given new disguises, with Optimus Prime being reformatted into an unknown [[World War II]]-era human vehicle. He explained to [[Duke (G.I. Joe)|Duke]] who they were, and learned that [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s Decepticons had been reactivated a year prior, and were currently wreaking havoc on [[Europe]] along with [[Cobra]]. While hesitant at first, Optimus Prime soon joined G.I. Joe in their mission to destroy Cobra and the Decepticons. {{storylink|Transformed}} After commanding the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]] to get the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]] out of the way, Prime advanced across the Fera Islands, but met resistance in the form of [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]. {{storylink|Trial by Fire (issue)|Trial by Fire}}

As the Autobots were having trouble with Rumble, Optimus Prime told them try to use his earthquakes to their advantage, which led to the end of the Decepticon. Prime subsequently ordered the Aerialbots to [[Superion (G1)|combine]] and save Grimlock and [[Roadblock (G.I. Joe)|Roadblock]] from falling off a cliff. {{storylink|Wolves}} As they got closer to the Cobra [[Terrordrome]], however, Prime started regretting getting the Autobots involved with the humans' war. He offered to carry G.I. Joe across the water separating them from the Terrordrome, but told them that Autobots only fight if they have no choice, and they had no reason to fight anymore. Moments later, he saw that Cobra were using innocent prisoners as human shields, and Duke added that anyone who Cobra ''didn't'' enslave, they murdered. Filled with righteous anger, Optimus Prime ordered his troops to roll out. {{storylink|Trenches}}

Shortly after reaching the other shore and taking out [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]], Prime witnessed the gigantic [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] bust out of the Terrordrome and attack everything around him. With Superion gone, Prime knew that there was only one way to stop this rampaging monster, and ordered his Autobots to evacuate the humans while he went looking for the [[Matrix of Leadership]]. He soon found that [[Snake-Eyes]] was in possession of the artifact, but was under attack from Megatron. Prime attacked Megatron, keeping him at bay while telling Snake-Eyes that destroying the Matrix would kill Bruticus. The ninja complied, only to learn that Optimus had left something out of the story: smashing the Matrix would kill ''all'' the Transformers, including Prime himself. Looking at the Autobot leader's body, the Joes knew that Prime had been aware of this, and had deemed it a necessary sacrifice to save the humans. {{storylink|The Iron Fist}}

Decades later, in 1986, Duke showed [[Flint (G.I. Joe)|Flint]] and [[Spirit]] footage from the battle of the Fera Islands, including Optimus Prime's fight with Megatron. {{storylink|Targets of Opportunity}}

=== IDW comics continuity ===
{{ongoing}}

[[Image:YoumustbeMegaton.jpg|left|thumb|200px|Megaton - tron - whatever.]]

Before the war, Optimus, then known as Orion Pax, was the captain of the [[Rodion|Rodion]] Police and a somewhat liberal one at that. When the lowly miner Megatron was arrested for assault, Optimus read his treatise on ''non-violent'' resistance, did some investigation, and found he wasn't guilty; he had him released, and told Megatron he'd read his treatise and told him to keep working for change. {{storylink|Chaos Theory Part 1}}

[[Image:MO3 EOOPAT funeral.jpg|right|thumb|250px|Helloooo cameo.]]
In the very beginnings of [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]'s civil war, Optimus ''completely changed'' his entire appearance. He was one of several Transformers who gathered for the funeral of the slain [[Fastback (G1)|Fastback]] and [[Bumper (G1)|Bumper]]. He stood solemnly with his arm around his [[Elita One|girlfriend]], next to his [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|white clone]] and [[Alpha Trion (G1)|a guy with a beard]]. {{storylink|Megatron Origin issue 3}}

[[Image:SpotlightBlurr-Optimus.jpg|left|thumb|200px|There's something missing...]]

Galvanized by the death of Sentinel Prime, Optimus joined the Autobot forces under Sentinel's successor, [[Zeta Prime]], and was assigned to a unit commanded by the veteran [[Kup (G1)|Kup]]. ''Once again'', during this time, he adopted a completely new robot mode. During this tour of duty, his unit intercepted a message reporting a planned attempt on the Prime's life. He approached former racer [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] as a reliable means of getting the news to Zeta Prime in a hurry. The former celebrity balked, but ultimately the young soldier helped Blurr find what really drove him to race, and thus recruited him to the Autobot cause. {{storylink|Spotlight: Blurr}}

An undisclosed amount of time later, Optimus became Optimus Prime and went ''right'' back to his original look. While reviewing his new troops, he came upon a defiant old veteran called Ironhide, who thought of Prime as a wet-behind-the-audio-receptors upstart. Optimus was intrigued by this old coot and asked Ironhide to teach him about the ways of war—and Ironhide did just that. Everything he threw at Optimus, Optimus took and learnt. One day, Optimus, having gained much wisdom since meeting Ironhide, decided to go against Ironhide's counsel, heading east instead of west. This turned out to be a good idea, as [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]] had been waiting in the west to ambush the Autobot forces. Later still, Ironhide and Optimus got a bit unlucky and ended up dangling off a cliff with Ironhide missing a leg. They were eventually rescued. As time went on, Ironhide developed a respect and awe for his protege. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 13}}

He would face Megatron in open combat for the first time at [[Sherma Bridge]], during the Rorsha Campaign; he'd lose 5000 Autobots but would tear off the tyrant's cannon arm. Every Autobot and Decepticon stopped fighting to witness this battle. {{storylink|Chaos Theory Part 1}}

Four million years ago, Optimus Prime led a strike team to prevent the Decepticons from overtaking the latest in a series of Cybertronian cities. Leaving Prowl to hold the line, Optimus and Ironhide went after a convoy of Decepticons bring fresh energon to the enemy troops. Fighting their way through [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]], [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] and the Mini-Cassettes, the Autobot duo held [[Octane|Tankor]] and his soldiers at gunpoint, threatening to blow them and their energon cargo to kingdom come unless they surrendered. Tankor chose the better part of valor, and Optimus captured five Decepticons without firing a single shot.

At a party celebrating their win, Optimus Prime politely declined Prowl's request for him to address the troops, reasoning that the Autobots needed some R&R, not the usual "destiny and honor" speech. He conversed quietly with [[Kup (G1)|Kup]] and Ironhide afterwards, privately confiding in them that he foresaw the war going on without end. The Decepticons were a philosophy, an idea...and you cannot beat an idea, only change it somehow. Despite his sad reservations, Optimus took the time to mingle among his soldiers, and listen to their tales of glory. He was saved from an assassination attempt by Ironhide, his ever vigilant bodyguard, whose devotion to his leader led him to throw himself in the path of [[Axer|the assassin]]'s blast. {{storylink|The Iron Age}}

[[Image:IDWOptimus.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Freedom is the right of all sentient and heavily-armed beings.]]

Over the course of the war, Optimus Prime commanded the Autobot armed forces spread across the galaxy from the [[Autobot Orbital Command Hub]]. {{storylink|Stormbringer}} He'd fight Megatron on multiple worlds, each time either taking and/or dishing out horrific damage. {{storylink|Chaos Theory Part 1}} He was directly involved in the cataclysm ([[IDW timeline|just under 450 years ago]]) that reduced [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] to a dead husk, fighting alongside [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] in an attempt to stop [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]]'s rampage. Their efforts were futile, and they only survived due to Cybertron itself swallowing Thunderwing at [[Thunderhead Pass]]. Megatron was unconvinced that Thunderwing was dead, and he advocated that Cybertron be destroyed to better insure that the mad Decepticon was forever destroyed. Optimus Prime refused and threatened to stop any effort that Megatron attempted. Megatron agreed to spare the planet, but warned Prime that anything which happened afterward was on his head.

In the present, Prime received a pulsewave from [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]], who was stationed under [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]]'s team on Earth, saying that the Decepticon infiltration cell under [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] had broken their infiltration methods and enacted [[Infiltration protocol|siege mode]] prematurely. Soon afterward, the Autobot science vessel ''[[Calabi-Yau]]'' sent a distress signal from above Thunderhead Pass, and he ordered the [[Wrecker]]s to withdraw from [[Varas Centralus]] and meet him on Cybertron. {{storylink|Stormbringer issue 2|Stormbringer #2}} Thunderwing had been restored by [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] and his followers, and though the Wreckers made short work of them, the real fight would be met with Thunderwing. After the Wreckers, [[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]] and [[Centurion droid]]s were unable to destroy the monster, Prime took to the field, firing massive amounts of energy at Thunderwing, forcing it to exhaust its last reserves of [[Ultra-Energon]] and, ultimately, its life. {{storylink|Stormbringer issue 4|Stormbringer #4}}

[[Image:IDWPrime Earth.jpg|left|150px|thumb|Don't crush the cameraman!]]
[[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] discovered information in Bludgeon's files about the mysterious new form of Energon found on [[Earth]]. Linking it to the pulsewave transmission from Ironhide, Prime diverted his spacecraft to Earth and called [[Nightbeat (G1)|Nightbeat]] in to assist him. {{storylink|Spotlight: Nightbeat}}. Shortly after arrival, and having undergone alteration so that he could disguise himself as an Earth truck, he slowly began to realize how unusual the situation Prowl's unit had found itself in was. {{storylink|Infiltration issue 6|Infiltration #6}} [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] alerted Optimus Prime to Decepticon activity in [[Latveria]], so Optimus Prime ordered everyone except Wheeljack to [[roll out]]. They arrived and the humans assembled There they discovered a heavily shielded "array" that the Decepticons were using as a base.{{storylink|Man and Machine, Part One}} They skirmished with the humans that were assembled outside who were under the influence of the Decepticons' mind-altering [[Psycho-Prism]]. Optimus Prime ordered his troops to use standard human containment techniques, and to not kill any of them.

After a while, Ratchet was able to attach an inhibitor device to [[Captain America]] which nullified the effects of the Psycho-Prism. He gave Captain America enough devices for everyone on his team. Now calmed down, Optimus Prime was able to explain about their struggle against the Decepticons, and they teamed up to shut down the Psycho-Prism. They began attacking the array's defenses which caused the Decepticons—whose powers were augmented by [[Spider-Man]]'s super powers—to attack. Optimus Prime got blasted and injured by Thundercraker. {{storylink|Man and Machine, Part Two}} As they fought, Optimus Prime told Ratchet to get inside the array. He then made a point to coordinate better with the leader of the humans. Then Bumblebee, Jazz, and Prime gave a power-boost to [[Iron Man]] in his Transformer-sized armor. This allowed them to beat the Decepticons back.

After the battle quited down, Megatron communicated via hologram from inside the array with his new ally [[Doctor Doom]]. They showed their captives, Ratchet, Prowl, Luke Cage, and [[Spider-Man]]. Megatron ordered their surrender or the captives would die. Optimus Prime ordered the quick destruction of the array. After a brief discussion, they all attacked the array. Megatron turned on Doctor Doom for being incorrect about them surrendering. Megatron didn't go through with his threat to kill his captives, instead he went outside to face his opponents and carrying Luke Cage. {{storylink|Man and Machine, Part Three}}

While Megatron was attacking, Bumblebee, Jazz, and [[Wolverine (superhero)|Wolverine]] [[orbital jump|orbital bounced]] into the array. They found that Doctor Doom switched sides and freed Spider-Man. Prowl and Ratchet augmented their power with Wolverine's blood, and oribital bounced with Spider-Man outside to join the battle. With their help they defeated Megatron while Wolverine destroyed the Psycho-Prism. Megatron and the Decepticons retreated. {{storylink|Man and Machine, Part Four}}

Not only had the Decepticons broken their own infiltration protocols over what Starscream had dubbed [[Ultra-Energon|Ore-13]], but after attempting to recover what appeared to be [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]]'s remains, it was also evident that some of the planet's native sentient lifeforms—[[human]]s—posed a threat possibly equal to that of their old enemies. {{storylink|Escalation issue 2|Escalation #2}}

Optimus Prime, now fully filled-in on Earth's happenings, decided that they needed reinforcements. He called Nightbeat, [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]], and [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] to come when they could. When Prowl pointed out that Megatron, in his new gun-based Earth mode, was in the breakaway Soviet state of [[Brasnya]] stirring up trouble, Prime ordered them into action.

[[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]] almost got the drop on Prime, but [[Roller (G1)|Roller]] was right behind him and took out Blitzwing with a single shot. Megatron returned to his full-size robot mode and disagreed with the quality of Prime's tea and crumpets. At last, the two rivals were going to go at it.

[[Image:Escalation5 Primedies enlightning.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Rule of thumb, Megs—if he don't turn gray, he's A-OK.]]
The fight went well at first, with Prime blowing Megatron's [[fusion cannon]] clean off. Megatron, however, tireless thanks to Ore-13, prevailed, almost beating Prime into [[stasis lock]]. {{storylink|Escalation issue 5|Escalation #5}}

However, Prime transferred his consciousness into his trailer, leading Megatron to believe him dead. Realizing that Ore-13 was the same as Ultra-Energon, Prime returned to his body in time to save his forces from the relentless Megatron, blasting him point blank in the face and dealing enough damage to the Decepticon leader to drain his power reserves, just as he did against Thunderwing. The victory was narrow, however, leaving Optimus with the daunting task of fending off an increasing enemy force without his last ace in the hole. {{storylink|Escalation issue 6|Escalation #6}}

This near-death experience had left Prime somewhat unsettled. While his consciousness was in [[infraspace]] downloading to his trailer, he sensed a presence of dread—the visage of his long-missing predecessor, [[Nova Prime]]. Looking for answers, Optimus Prime left Earth temporarily to seek an audience with [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] for answers. Once there, he found out about Nova's beliefs of how Transformers were a superior race and should remake the universe in their image, and he faced down the rampaging [[Monstructor (G1)|Monstructor]], a legacy of Nova's tenure locked away by Omega Supreme. Then he gave his "you shouldn't have done that" speech to Omega, handed Monstructor's limbs over to Jetfire's team, and went on to have angst-ridden introspection about himself and the tarnished legacy of the [[Prime (rank)|Prime lineage]]. {{storylink|Spotlight: Optimus Prime}}

After returning to Earth, Nightbeat discovered that a human group was aware of the base's location and recommended to Prime that they move the ''[[Ark-19]]''. As preparations were underway, Prime received a message from [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] saying that Thunderwing had been stolen. [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]], eager to search for Sunstreaker, suggested that they be reassigned to Earth, and Prime agreed. However, the thrashing that Prime gave Megatron had so embarrassed the Decepticon leader that he ordered in the Decepticons' living weapon, [[Sixshot]]. While moving the ''Ark-19'', Prime and the others came under fire by Sixshot, who severely damaged their ship. {{storylink|Devastation issue 1|Devastation #1}}

[[Image:Devastation4 PrimeSixshot hyperbole.jpg|left|180px|thumb|"And THAT'S for killing my brother in another timeline!"]]
Ordering [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] to get [[Jimmy Pink]] and [[Verity Carlo]] to safety, Optimus then instructed Nightbeat to upload all of ''Ark-19''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s data to ''[[Ark-32]]'' and for Prowl to activate the self-destruct sequence. {{storylink|Devastation issue 2|Devastation #2}} When ''Ark-19'' exploded, it was assumed that Optimus was on board, but all was good at the end when he appeared with [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] and the others, ready to take on Sixshot. {{storylink|Devastation issue 3|Devastation #3}} Optimus and the Autobots held Sixshot at bay, but the U.S. military ordered an air strike to destroy the alien robots. The battle was a stalemate, as Sixshot had to return to the Decepticons while the Autobots [[orbital jump]]ed just in time to avoid destruction. {{storylink|Devastation issue 4|Devastation #4}} On ''Ark-32'', after a conversation with Jetfire, Prime informed Prowl that they needed to retrieve Wheeljack, Hot Rod and Ironhide, and leave Earth to see to another crisis. The secure facility on [[Garrus-9]] had been breached, and Prime and company needed to make sure that some of the "recent inmates" there didn't end up "in enemy hands". {{storylink|Devastation issue 5|Devastation #5}} Before leaving Earth, Optimus Prime redirected Hound's unit to rendezvous with ''Ark-32'' at Garrus-9, and he told Hound to impress upon Sideswipe the importance of their mission and how he didn't leave Earth or Sunstreaker behind lightly. {{storylink|Devastation issue 6|Devastation #6}}

[[Image:DarknessPrimes.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Think he can go one series without having a near-death experience?]]
Optimus Prime and Prowl met with [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] and Jetfire on Garrus-9 and discussed the prisoners' breakout and how a surviving Decepticon had been tortured. Maximus and Jetfire gave each other a guilty glance. Prime left Maximus in charge and returned with Prowl to the ''Ark-32''. Meanwhile, [[Dead Universe]] resident [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] attacked Hound's crew, but they received help from Ultra Magnus and drove Cyclonus to escape to [[Corata-Vaz]]. There, he activated the [[Nega-Core]] and fought with Magnus and Hound's crew, who had followed him. In desperation, Cyclonus activated the Nega-Core's guardian—Thunderwing. Using the distraction, Cyclonus escaped, but Magnus sent another tracker after him. All this was reported to Optimus Prime on the ''Ark-32'', who recognized that this had something to do with his infraspace encounter in Brasnya. Prime ordered Jetfire to summon the Wreckers to find out what Thunderwing was guarding. {{storylink|Spotlight: Cyclonus}}

The prison soon came under attack from Nova Prime. Rather than watch his soldiers be slaughtered by the undead monster, Optimus Prime ordered a retreat and faced Nova alone. Announcing his new title of Nemesis Prime, Optimus's predecessor explained the nature of the [[Darkness (G1)|Darkness]] before unleashing a portion on the Autobot leader. Shattered, Prime collapsed onto his hands and knees as Nemesis loomed. {{storylink|Spotlight: Doubledealer}}

[[Image:OptimusdeadNemesis.jpg|left|200px|thumb|"Optimus! I've come to help y—oh. Sorted, then?"]]

Unexpectedly for Nemesis Prime, the Darkness seemed to be more interested in the younger Prime and sought to be passed onto Optimus. Nemesis wasn't about to let go of the power he commanded, and he savagely attacked Optimus Prime, whose attempts at reason fell on deaf ears. Just as Nemesis Prime seemed victorious, [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] attacked the fallen Prime from behind, killing him. Nemesis's death allowed the Darkness finally to enter Optimus, who tried to fight against its evil to no avail. Galvatron offered the Autobot a choice: kill himself by plunging into the [[Solar pool]], or pass on the Darkness to Galvatron, who had coveted it for so long. Optimus seemed to do so willingly, but just as he passed on the Darkness, he threw the surprised Galvatron into the solar pool. As Optimus gazed upon the dead body of Nemesis, he told himself he could not mourn the elder Prime's death, as Nova had truly died long ago. {{storylink|Spotlight: Sideswipe}}

[[Image:AHMPrimecritical.jpg|right|250px|thumb|So he's dying. [[The many deaths of Optimus Prime|This shouldn't be a problem by now]].]]
A year later, Optimus Prime combined his Autobot squad with another squad. Having received word of a supposed Decepticon power struggle, Prime led the Autobots to a location where Starscream's "group" was, only to be ambushed by a unified Decepticon force. Though they managed to turn the tide briefly, Devastator's appearance made the difference, enabling Megatron to rip the Matrix of Leadership from Prime's chest. Prime was dealt another blow (mentally) when the Autobots were told that they'd been sold out by a traitor in their ranks (who was later revealed to be [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]]). {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 8|All Hail Megatron #8}} The Autobots were led to a space bridge, where Prime, who was the last to go, used his remaining energy to destroy the machine. Unfortunately, this heroic act left Prime in critical condition. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 7|All Hail Megatron #7}} With this defeat, the Autobots were forced to leave Earth to the Decepticons. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 1|All Hail Megatron #1}}

After Prime's unit met up with Kup's unit, and after dealing with the Swarm and Sideswipe's sacrifice to save them, Ratchet and Wheeljack managed to use energon from the ''Trion'' to bring Prime back online in time to smooth over an Autobot argument. As the others excitedly welcomed him back, Prime made a speech about how he was proud of them and that he wanted to win the war. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 9|All Hail Megatron #9}}. After the Autobots recovered and prepared for a final stand against the Swarm, Prime had a brief chat with Ironhide (during which Ironhide admitted to hating him secretly at first sight at the start of the Great War), then prepared for the Swarm's onslaught. When they came, the Autobots fought back, but they were quickly outnumbered by the thousands. Thankfully, Omega Supreme arrived and saved them from certain doom. After Omega briefly told them about his arrival, Prime ordered him to transform and transport the Autobots back to Earth. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 10|All Hail Megatron #10}}

Arriving at [[New York City]] while the Decepticons were fending off attacks by a European air squad, Optimus and the Autobots began to engage the Decepticons again. After a bit of fighting, and with the threat of Devasator, Optimus ordered Omega Supreme to take Devastator away from the city and fight him elsewhere. Optimus Prime encountered Megatron, and the two engaged in a bit of viewpoint bantering, mostly about the way their war was now changing and the fact that the humans Prime had "sworn to protect" were about to drop a nuclear bomb on the city. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 11|All Hail Megatron #11}}

[[Image:AHM-13 Prime mouth.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Optimus will overenergize on this stuff, then wake up the next morning in a CR chamber full of ice with his robo-kidneys missing.]]

After that, they engaged in a fierce battle while trading more banter. At first, Megatron took the advantage, but just as he was about to leave with the Decepticons and take the Matrix with him, a shot from [[Shockwave (G1)|an experimental weapon made from a Transformer]] fired by [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|a brave human]] hit him it the face. Seizing the opportunity, Optimus grabbed Megatron's fusion cannon and slammed it against Megatron's head, bringing him down in defeat. Before Optimus could truly finish him off, however, Starscream intervened and, after exchanging words, took off with Megatron and the Matrix. Prime's decision to go after them or save New York from nuclear devastation was rendered moot when Thundercracker, who had grown disenchanted with the way the Decepticons went after the humans, blew up the bomb at the cost of his own life (thanks to an angry Skywarp). The war over for the moment, Prime met with Spike Witwicky, thanked him for helping the Autobots out, and asked if there was some way to help the humans in return. However, Spike responded that they had brought their war to Earth, so any chance of human-Transformer relations was now long gone. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 12|All Hail Megatron #12}}

Later, in an abandoned cave supposedly somewhere within NY's ruins, Optimus heard Ironhide's resignation from the Autobot forces. Respecting Ironhide too much, he did not argue, but after some energon and a little flashback, Optimus convinced Ironhide to stay. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 13}}

[[Image:Ongoing Issue 1-Optimus Surrenders.jpg|right|thumb|200px|His attempt to start the wave was not going down well.]]

Three years later, Prime was still insisting the Autobots remain on Earth despite minimal Decepticon activity and the development of human technology capable of fending off Cybertronian. Hot Rod, already frustrated by the capture of Prowl, snapped and accused Prime of allowing both his guilt at the events of three years ago and his need to protect something to trap the Autobots on a world that didn't want them anymore. Optimus was left nearly speechless, forcing him to allow Hot Rod to lead a risky mission to free Prowl. In order to put some of his fears to rest, Ironhide went along to keep the more emotional 'bots in check. This mission ended with the freeing of Prowl, at the cost of Ironhide's life.

The loss of Ironhide forced Optimus to re-examine his actions of the past years. Concluding he had been the wrong, leading the Autobots down a self-destructive path, Prime resigned his post as Autobot leader and handed himself into the humans. {{storylink|...For All Mankind}}

Optimus was brought to the Skywatch base and put into transformation stasis. However, he was shortly freed as Spike Witwicky decided they needed to talk. {{storylink|New Arrivals, Old Encounters}} Spike attempted to have a conversation with Optimus and get him some help, but Optimus stonewalled him, saying that he was captured, at their mercy and therefore not allowed to be treated nicely. He refused to talk any further and was moved into a holding cell. Later, [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]], [[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]] and [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] were brought into Skywatch captivity. Spike explained that although Prime didn't want any help, he'd want to help his troops, and so should talk with Spike. {{storylink|A Rude Awakening}}

{{charstubfiction}}
{{Storylink|Enemies of the System}} {{storylink|Earthworks}}

{{note|The events of ''Spotlight: Mirage'' possibly take place in an alternate/unknown continuity.}}

Optimus Prime commanded one of the last remaining pockets of Autobot resistance, hiding out in the [[Pegasus Star Cluster]]. While awaiting the arrival of Bumblebee's team, he and Hound tried to work out how to convert the [[Zodiac|Zodiac Energy]] for their consumption. "Bumblebee's" arrival proved to be their downfall, as it was really the self-serving mercenary [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]], who destroyed the bunker security systems, allowing the Decepticons inside. Optimus Prime refused to surrender during the ensuing struggle, until Mirage used the critically injured Jetfire as a hostage, forcing Prime to back down. When Megatron betrayed Mirage's word and ordered the execution of the Autobots, Optimus Prime tried to reason with the mercenary, appealing to his former friendship with Hound...until Mirage killed Hound in defiance. Furious, Optimus Prime broke free of his captors and tackled Mirage into the Zodiac Energy chamber. {{storylink|Spotlight: Mirage}}

{{-}}

===''Hearts of Steel''===
[[Image:HeartsofSteel_1_Prime_Bumblebee.jpg|thumb|left|200px|"I keep telling you Bumblebee, the Dinobots will never accept you into their clique!"]]

The Autobots and the Decepticons came to [[Earth|a distant world]] in the grip of an ice age. Assuming alternate modes based upon the [[Dinosaur|dominant (though doomed) indigenous creatures]] of this planet, they continued their ancient, unending war. However, the Autobots, with their energy levels dangerously low, withdrew from combat as the world grew colder. They sought refuge in a deep cavern and entered [[stasis lock]], awaiting the day when surface conditions changed to better suit their operation. Millions of years later, Bumblebee was awoken by the hammering of humans working on a rail line. He briefly considered awakening Optimus Prime, but thought better of it. After discovering the world had changed significantly, Ratchet thought there was no reason to awaken Prime. {{storylink|Hearts of Steel issue 1}} When Bumblebee discovered the Decepticons were once again active on this world, Ratchet and Prowl agreed that the Autobots must intervene, but again decided out of rousing Optimus from his slumber. {{Storylink|Hearts of Steel issue 2|Hearts of Steel #2}}

{{Note|Optimus Prime appears very briefly in the first few pages, in his "Ice Age Wars" body (we only see him in robot mode, but his altmode is a brachiosaurus.<ref>[http://www.allspark.com/forums/index.php?s=d5d311674e796c81d010d26ac751389b&showtopic=10074&st=20&p=266183&#entry266183 Allspark forums post] by [[Guido Guidi]], August 15th, 2006</ref> He spends most of the story in stasis lock. [[:Image:Opthos.jpg|Unused concept art]] depicts him as transforming into a locomotive engine.}}

{{-}}
===''Music Label''===
In the year 2007, the Autobots discovered that the Decepticon communications officer [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] was attempting to control the minds of humans through hypnotic music broadcast through a series of tiny clones of himself. Optimus Prime upgraded his trailer with a huge pair of speakers, and proceeded to drive around, broadcasting a counter-frequency that undid the villain's brainwashing. {{storylink|Music Label}}

{{note|The [[Generation 1 cartoon timeline (Japan)|2007 Takara timeline]] placed the events of the ''[[Music Label]]'' storyline in the [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Generation 1 cartoon continuity]], but Optimus Prime's role in the story is therefore made impossible, as he was dead in that universe in 2007. However, given the way the timeline is unhelpfully laid out, it's not impossible that this adventure may take place not in the mainstream timeline, but in the branched-off parallel dimension of the ''[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity#Binaltech|Binaltech]]'' storyline, where Optimus did not die.}}

===''Henkei! Henkei!'' pack-in comics===
Optimus foiled Megatron's attack on 21st century [[Tokyo]]. {{storylink|Henkei! Henkei! volume 1}} He and Bumblebee had to stop [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]]'s attack on [[Shinjuku Station]], but it was actually a distraction from Megatron's gathering of energon cubes. {{storylink|Henkei! Henkei! volume 2}} {{storylink|Henkei! Henkei! volume 3}} Megatron used one to transform into Galvatron, and would have killed Prime were it not for Ironhide's timely intervention, transforming him back into Megatron. {{storylink|Henkei! Henkei! volume 7}}

===''Henkei! Henkei!'' Bun Bun manga===
When the legendary [[Energon Cube]] was lost to the reaches of space, Optimus Prime led a small team of Autobots in pursuit of it. The giant energy source crashed on Earth in the Japanese town of [[Hoshinochō]], where it shattered into fragments that were scattered far and wide. Prime and the other Autobots set up a subterranean base below the Cube's impact crater and began their search for the shards, taking the forms of local vehicles to hide their activities. Despite their attempts at remaining unseen, glimpses of the Autobots only magnified the reputation the crash of the Cube (believed by humans to be a meteor) had given Hoshinochō: that of a hotbed of rumored alien and UFO activity, Japan's answer to [[United States of America|America]]'s Roswell. {{storylink|Kingdom of Giants}}

The Autobots gained a human ally in their quest when they befriended Doctor [[Osamu Kihara]] of the Governmental Special Diplomatic Agency, who provided more assistance than they could have imagined when his son, [[Akira Kihara|Akira]], was discovered to be a "[[Booster]]", one of many legendary beings born with the ability to control and detect the energies of the Energon Cube. Alas, the Decepticons had followed Prime's Autobots to Earth, and [[Megatron (G1)#Henkei! Henkei! Bun Bun manga|Megatron]] sought the boy's powers for his own. To protect Optimus Prime and himself, Akira unleashed the full extent of his powers, driving Megatron back, but causing his body to burn out and disintegrate. Prime was wracked with guilt over what had occurred, and it would haunt him afterward. {{storylink|Time of Resurrection}}

Eleven years after their arrival on Earth, Prime and the Autobots made a new human ally in [[Wataru Hoshinoumi]] when he stumbled into the midst of a battle between Prime's team and [[Starscream (G1)#Henkei! Henkei! Bun Bun manga|Starscream]] and [[Ramjet (G1)#Henkei! Henkei! Bun Bun manga|Ramjet]]. {{storylink|Enter! The Transformers}} When Megatron joined the fight soon after, he held [[Bumblebee (G1)#Henkei! Henkei! Bun Bun manga|Bumblebee]] and Wataru hostage, daring Prime to make a move against him. Prime opened fire, but Megatron merely used the defeated Starscream for a shield, then turned his cannon on the younger duo. Prime unleashed his [[ion blaster]] and apparently deflected the blast with a shot of his own, saving Bumblebee and Wataru and prompting the Decepticons to retreat. {{storylink|The Emperor of Destruction Appears!}}

Prime invited Wataru to visit the Autobots' subterranean base, and he gave the boy a personal tour as he carried the injured Bumblebee to the infirmary. Telling him the story of the Energon Cube and the Autobots' coming to Earth, Prime showed Wataru the large chunk of the cube that they had managed to recover. He then turned his attention to repairing Bumblebee's wounds, and as such, did not notice Wataru reaching out to touch the cube sliver. A bizarre energy discharge resulted that not only showed the Autobots images of [[Generation 1 (franchise)|another time and place]], but also healed both Autobots' wounds. Prime dived at Wataru and hauled him away from the shard, returning things to normal, but leaving Prime with grave concerns over what the strange occurrence might mean. {{storylink|Kingdom of Giants}}

When Starscream attacked a power plant with the aid of his brainwashed ally, [[Jetfire (G1)#Henkei! Henkei! Bun Bun manga|Skyfire]], Prime carried [[Grimlock (G1)#Henkei! Henkei! Bun Bun manga|Grimlock]] to the scene of the battle on the back of his truck mode. {{storylink|The Enemy from the Arctic}} During the conflict that followed, Prime's suspicions about Wataru were confirmed when the boy manifested a barrier to protect himself and Bumblebee and to help Skyfire overcome the influence of Starscream's mind-controlling helmet. Wataru was a Booster as well! {{storylink|Wataru's Power}} His past experiences naturally made Prime hesitant to put Wataru's power to use, but Osamu Kihara made the point that Wataru's power was invaluable for hunting down shards of the Energon Cube. Prime and Wataru headed out to investigate a local relic that Kihara suspected was a cube shard, and Wataru's powers soon confirmed the doctor's findings. Just as Prime was about to report back to Kihara, however, Megatron struck, demanding that Prime hand over both the shard and Wataru. Prime attempted to feign ignorance of Wataru's powers, but Megatron ignored his bluff and encouraged him to hand the boy over, lest he cost ''another'' Booster their life. Driven into a rage by the stinging barb, Prime violently attacked Megatron with his energon-axe, but as the duel raged, Megatron continued to question Prime's beliefs and his attitude. Unable to deny Megatron's accusation that he had hoped to use Wataru's power to defeat him, Prime lost his concentration and was taken down by the Decepticon leader. Despite what he had learned about a previous Booster dying, Wataru stayed true to Optimus and activated his powers, healing the Autobot's wounds and powering up his energon-axe into a huge sword. Summoning all his energy, Prime took down Megatron with one almighty slash, then collapsed into [[stasis lock]]. {{storylink|Optimus Prime's Secret}}

Prime was brought back to the Autobot base for treatment, but the Decepticons exploited the Autobots' lack of manpower and struck again before Prime recovered. With his men taking a pummeling, the unconscious Prime had a vision of Akira, who spurred him on to awaken and rejoin the battle. With another power boost from Wataru, Prime unleashed a super-charged shot from his ion blaster that took down the fleeing Decepticons. {{storylink|Time of Resurrection}}
{{charstubfiction}}
{{storylink|Creation! The New Emperor of Destruction!!}} {{storylink|The Threat of Galvatron}} {{storylink|Revenge (issue)|Revenge}} {{storylink|A Nightmare, Once Again}} {{storylink|To the Sea of Stars}}

===Alternity===
[[Image:Alternity_convoy_boxart.jpg|right|thumb|220px|This might take some getting used to. Hand me the instructions again!]]
In 2007, the Optimus Prime of [[universal stream]] Primax 109.0 Beta encountered a mysterious messenger from another world: [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity#Alternity|another incarnation of himself]] from a parallel dimension who left him with a warning. Two years hence, Megatron would bring the terrifying super-dimensional lifeform known as the "Beast of Time", [[Hytherion]], into their dimension to destroy Earth. The only thing that could battle Hytherion was the power of the super-evolved multi-dimensional race of Cybertronians known as the [[Alternity (species)|Alternity]]. Prime agreed that when the danger appeared, he would join the Alternity in the fight.

Sure enough, in 2009, when Hytherion's colossal claw-marks appeared on planets throughout the solar system, Prime's other-dimensional incarnation returned, bringing with him a "Vibrant Red" Vector 109 [[auto-avatar]] with which Prime fused. In that instant, he was reborn as part of the Alternity, a manifold being who encompassed all the different incarnations of Optimus Prime through the multiverse at once. Prime reached his hands heavenward and peeled back the layers of reality, exposing the gargantuan fanged maw of Hytherion looming above the Autobots. {{storylink|From Here to Alternity}}

Optimus battled alongside the Alternity to fend off the beast, when unexpectedly, [[Megatron (G1)#Alternity|Megatron]] overwrote the beast's higher functions with his own. At first, it seemed that Hytherion had been killed, but a newly empowered Megatron (in two bodies) appeared and declared that, now possessing a power that rivaled the Alternity's, he challenged his opponents to take him on or see the multiverse itself burn. {{storylink|To Mega Therion}}

As battles between numerous different Primes and Megatrons erupted quite literally all across time and space, another member of the Convoy Corps was later seen battling [[Starscream (G1)#Alternity|Starscream]], who had been empowered by Megatron to serve as leader of his [[Questor]]s. This Prime was so surprised by Starscream's uncharacteristic sports car alternate mode that he left himself open for a blast from Starscream's Retroactive Nullifer cannon, which erased him from the timestream. As he faded out of existence, Prime responded to Starscream's taunts about the death of the Alternity by telling him that they were already well aware of their prophesied end and were well prepared. {{storylink|Foreshadows}}
{{note|Alternity beings are both individuals and a collective of separate entities. More fiction about Optimus Prime's Alternity collective can be found [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity#Alternity|here]].}}
{{--}}

===''Robot Heroes'' comic===
[[Image:IDW I am Optimus Prime battle.jpg|left|thumb|300px|Adorobots VS. Decepticutes.]]
Optimus Prime was given the Matrix by [[Primus]] himself, and used to be friends with Megatron. Prowl is his closest friend and Ratchet is his oldest. Searching for Energon, the Autobots landed on Earth, but were followed by the Decepticons. With the help of their human allies, they bested off their foes, and knowing they would return, decided to stay and wait to defend the planet once more. Optimus Prime was proud to be an Autobot. {{storylink|I Am Optimus Prime (Robot Heroes)|I Am Optimus Prime}}
{{-}}

===''Universe'' cartoon===
:''Voice actor:'' [[Ron Hayden]] (English)
[[Image:Actionblast1matrix.jpg|left|thumb|250px|Anyone with a history of seizures should leave the room now.]]
Optimus Prime narrated the events of what happened before the Ark crashed on Earth. He became the new leader of a long line of Autobot leaders via the discovery of the Matrix. On their quest for more Energon, the Autobots were chased by Decepticons to the planet known as Earth and crashed on it. When they emerged from the Ark, Optimus Prime scanned his truck altmode, stating that the war would not end on Earth. {{Storylink|Action Blast 1}}

[[Image:FfE Optimus Prime Cyclonus.JPG|right|thumb|250px|Don't get distracted by your own fist Cyclonus! Do you WANT to lose your face?]]
Both Optimus Prime and Bumblebee raced down a street in an unknown desert while having an argument about Energon. He ordered Bumblebee to scan the surroundings to find the location where the Decepticons were hiding, and to be careful for possible scouts. When Bumblebee noted what the Decepticons were doing, Prime speculated that they might be planning to convert the energy into Energon, and ordered Bumblebee to create a diversion. While Bumblebee and Cyclonus fought, Prime made a surprise attack and took out Cyclonus with his Ion-axe, before turning his attention to Megatron. When both Decepticons fled, Prime told Bumblebee they'd done a good job (in front of a burning Gas station), and both Autobots got back on the move. {{storylink|Fight for Energon}}
{{--}}

===Wings of Honor===
[[Image:BattleLines1-DionOrionAriel.jpg|left|thumb|200px|We demand more frolicking!]]
Nine million years ago, the dockworker Orion Pax and his coworkers and friends [[Elita One|Ariel]] and [[Dion]] were murdered by [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] and his new [[Decepticon]] army. {{storylink|Battle Lines, Part 1}}

Orion Pax was rebuilt into Optimus Prime as part of [[Alpha Trion (G1)|Alpha Trion]]'s "[[Prime (rank)|Prime]] Initiative," a proposed alternative to the [[Elite Guard]]. {{storylink|The Coming Storm: Part 2}} However, after most of the Elite Guard were destroyed by the turncoat Guardsmen [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]], the [[Autobot High Council]] was prepared to give Optimus Prime command of the new Autobot military. This transferal of power was carried out at the [[Autobot High Council Citadel|Citadel]], with Prime standing with his best warriors. Prime promised to match the Decepticons' ferocity in order to preserve their way of life. {{storylink|Battle Lines, Part 1}}

He told his team that their primary mission would be to find and stop Megatron, though Ironhide thought they should be going after [[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] and the Combaticons. Optimus reminded him that orders were orders, but broke off his speech when he noticed that [[Side Burn (Timelines)|Side Burn]] was missing. {{storylink|Battle Lines, Part 2}}

[[Image:BattleLines1-Optimusspeech.jpg|right|thumb|200px|[[Magnum]] was always more of a Rodimus guy.]]

In [[1993]], Optimus Prime and the Autobots worked with their allies in [[Earth Defense Command]] to create a stronger link between their two peoples. A [[Cyberfactory]] was created on Earth to manufacture new Transformers with all the rights and status of citizens of Earth. Many years later, one of these Cybertronians named [[Rapido]] saved Optimus Prime from the [[Concurrence]] in 2006 by marshalling his Earthborn comrades into an effective fighting force. Out of respect for his abilities, Optimus gave Rapido emergency command powers on Earth, letting him assume leadership of any group of Autobots whenever the situation required it.

Following the rebirth of Cybertron's Golden Age that same year, [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] and [[Lord Zarak]] abandoned Earth and Cybertron to seek new sources of energon deeper in space. Optimus Prime assembled the majority of the Autobot army to pursue them, leaving behind only a small group of Autobots at [[Autobot City]] on Earth. Unfortunately, over the next few years several Earthborn Cybertronians from the Cyberfactories turned to crime, assembling as a new [[Decepticon Syndicate]]. Once he received word of the troubles on Earth, Prime sent [[Scorch (G1)|Scorch]] the [[Turbomaster]] to assess the situation. {{storylink|Generation 2: Redux}}

{{note|The Wings of Honor timeline is a close approximation of the original cartoon. Rapido's rescue of Optimus Prime presumably took place between ''[[The Return of Optimus Prime]]'' and ''[[The Rebirth]]''.}}

==Commercial appearances==
Optimus Prime has appeared in more [[Commercial|television commercials]] than any other Transformer... just as with everything else. He has been voiced by [[Peter Cullen]] in every animation segment in which he's had a speaking role.

[[Image:Toycommercial-firstPrime.jpg|right|thumb|My wheels don't disappear!]]

* He was one of the featured characters in the first ever appearance of the Transformers anywhere, an advertisement for the first issue of [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|the Generation 1 comic]]. He arrives in the midst of a desert battle as the Decepticons attacked a power plant on Earth, driving to back up his troops in defending it. He strikes a rather iconic pose as he transforms and fires, which would be replicated and copied numerous times in the early years of the franchise. This first commercial used nonfinal versions of the characters' [[character model]]s; Optimus Prime, for example, still had wheels on his legs. [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9-7RjhFzpM]

* In a commercial for the [[Triple Changer]]s, Optimus confronts Astrotrain on a desert battlefield, but the Triple-Changer escapes under fire from other Autobots. Shortly afterward, Prime uses Perceptor's microscope mode to examine a fragment of Decepticon battle armor. [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9WssZjIsUIU]

* Prime and Jazz are shown fighting Megatron in the desert in an ad for the 1985 cars, whom he summons to help out with the battle. [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9WssZjIsUIU]

* Prime narrates two commercials around the time of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'', describing the action as [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] battles [[Wreck-Gar (G1)|Wreck-Gar]], and [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] and [[Kup (G1)|Kup]] take on the [[Sharkticon (G1)|Sharkticons]]. [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5X-10pud7DY]

[[Image:Toycommercial-PowermasterOptimusPrime.jpg|right|thumb|An integral part of Powermaster Prime's transformation is Joyride shooting lightning bolts through his pointed finger.]]

* Prime was prominently featured in the ad for the first comic issue featuring the [[Powermaster]]s. On the rocky plains where practically every Transformer battle ever seems to happen, Prime arrives in his Powermaster body to back up three of his troops against Dreadwind and Darkwing. He's shown combining with [[Hi-Q]] and transforming, attacking with his trailer's battle station mode, then combining with the trailer to continue the attack. Who wins? Find out in [[People Power!|Marvel Comics]]! [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=voX_KNNxNCI]

[[Image:OptimusQuickswitchCommercial.jpg|right|thumb|Optimus Prime is so giving, he even gives other Transformers time in his commercials.]]

* Prime also features briefly in [[Quickswitch]]'s ad; in a battle on the moon, Quickswitch transforms to gun mode and is wielded by Powermaster Optimus Prime.

* An abbreviated ad for Powermaster Prime uses footage from both the Marvel Comic and Quickswitch commercials.

* Prime's Powermaster body shows up yet again in the [[Classic Pretender|Pretender Classic]]s ad. He comes under attack in the darkened streets of the city, prompting the [[narrator]] to explain that he needs the greatest Transformers ever! Prime then welcomes back Bumblebee and Jazz in their Pretender forms. [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mahbq-FnSPY]

* Powermaster Prime and [[Piranacon (G1)|Piranacon]] are the representatives from each faction that [[Doubledealer]] doublecrosses! Everyone wonders who that guy is that Prime's talking to... He looks kinda suspicious!

* Optimus features prominently in the first [[Action Master]] commercial; he's shown surrounded by a circle of his troops, and challenges them to give up their transforming powers to become faster, stronger, more alive! [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KeNf3jQ1zdw]

* A stock intro was used for several Micromaster commercials, with Optimus opening his fist to reveal a Micromaster city within.

[[Image:Hotrodpatrolcommercial.jpg|right|thumb|Prime wants to know if they can transform, because he sure can't!]]

* A similar sequence in another Micromaster ad has Prime opening his fist to find the [[Hot Rod Patrol]] inside. He and Jazz check them out, and Optimus wonders if they can transform.

* In an ad for the Micromaster micro bases, a battle rages outside an Autobot base, and Prime watches impassively as Bumblebee and Jazz pull two [[Interstellar shuttle|captured]] [[Attack Copter|vehicles]] into the base. Prime is the first to notice that the vehicles are transforming and shooting things.

* Prime and [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]] are the stars of the first ''[[Generation 2 (franchise)|Generation 2]]'' commercial, animated with [[Computer-generated imagery|CGI]]. Prime is shown driving down a road in his ''Generation 2'' colored truck mode. He rocket-launches up into the air to transform, then has a brutal fight with Ramjet. Despite getting a hole blasted in his chest, he wins the fight and fires his gun into the air in triumph. Non-speaking.

* Prime also is shown briefly in a commercial for the new Megatron tank toy. He transforms and finds his head in a target crosshairs. In the subsequent toy segment, Prime's toy is shown getting completely trashed by that of Megatron. Non-speaking.

* And finally, Prime got his own rap segment. He's shown in his Combat toy body, waiting for Megatron as he attacks a human subdivision. Prime converts to robot form, blows up Megatron's weapon at point blank range, and slugs it out with him. Apparently emerging victorious, is next shown sitting next to an identical truck, which the live-action kid mistakes for the real thing. The real Prime then transforms and picks up the kid, inspecting the human with his cold, lifeless, flashing red optics. Prime is once again voiced by Peter Cullen in this commercial.

Prime also appeared in commercials for ''Transformers'' products other than the toys themselves...

* In the ad for [[Coleco]]'s [[Power Cycle]], Optimus Prime shoots ''at'' a child riding the title cycle, but misses. This footage is recycled from the advertisement for the comic.

* Prime delivers a load of shoes to schoolchildren in a South American ad for [[Bata]]'s licensed ''Transformers'' footwear.
{{-}}

==Games==
===Adventure Game: Defeat the Decepticons===
When Megatron and his Decepticons allies held captive the Autobot's [[Mini Vehicle|Minicar]] troops, Optimus Prime entered the Decepticon's maze-like base in order to rescue his friends.{{storylink|Adventure Game: Defeat the Decepticons|Adventure Game: Defeat the Decepticons packaging blurb and game}}
===''The Transformers'' (1985)===
Optimus Prime was among the few remaining Autobots in the wake of the Decepticon creation of ROBO-CLONING technology. With his energy-starved comrades, he desperately sought pieces of the Autobot Energon Cube before the Decepticons could get their hands on them. {{storylink|The Transformers (Commodore 64)|The Transformers}}

===Transformers: Mystery of Convoy===

When a mysterious force killed Optimus Prime, Ultra Magnus rose as Autobot Commander in his place, and went forth to find out what killed Optimus. {{storylink|Transformers: Mystery of Convoy}}

{{note|For an alternate interpretation of these events, see ''[[To Die Game!]]''}}

===''DreamMix TV World Fighters'' video game===
:''Voice actor'': [[Tesshō Genda]]

As part of [[DreamMix TV]]'s attempt to pull in more ratings, Optimus Prime and his eternal rival Megatron were invited to battle bunches of other beings on the television show ''[[World Fighters]]''. {{storylink|DreamMix TV World Fighters}}

===''The Transformers'' (PS2)===
:''Voice actor:'' [[Robert Belgrade]]
{{charstubfiction}}
{{storylink|The Transformers (PS2)|The Transformers}}

===''Revenge of the Fallen'' - The Game (Xbox 360/PlayStation 3/PC)===
[[Image:ROTF_360PS3_PC_G1OptimusPrime_DLC.jpg|thumb|200px|]]
:''Voice actor:'' [[Peter Cullen]]

{{Note|On [[August 27]], [[2009]], Optimus Prime was one of a handful of downloadable characters in a DLC pack for Xbox 360 and Sony Playstation 3.}}
{{storylink|Revenge of the Fallen (Xbox 360/PS3/PC)|Revenge of the Fallen}}
{{-}}

===Transformers G1: Awakening===
{{storylink|Transformers G1: Awakening}}
{{charstubfiction}}

===Transformers Battle Universe===
At the edge of time, when the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]] needed a new host, Optimus Prime was among several warriors (and [[Optimus Prime|Prime]]s) summoned from the multiverse to battle for control of the prize. {{storylink|Transformers Battle Universe}}

==Toys==
{{main|Optimus Prime (G1)/toys}}

==Merchandise==
:''Main article: [[Optimus Prime (G1)/merchandise]]''

==Notes==
* According to [[Bob Budiansky]], longtime comics writer [[Denny O'Neil]] named Optimus Prime prior to Budiansky being brought on to the ''Transformers'' project.

* Optimus Prime appears in 69 G1 episodes Peter Cullen Voices him in 68 because he did not talk as a ghost in the Burden Hardest to bear

* Optimus Prime's Japanese name is "Convoy", which is named after his original name "Battle Convoy" in the ''[[Diaclone]]'' toyline, because the name "Optimus Prime" is difficult for Japanese kids to remember and pronounce.<ref>''[[Figure Ō]]'' No. 114</ref>

*According to an early ''[[Transformers Universe (Marvel comic)|Universe]]''-style profile published in ''[[The Transformers Comic Magazine]]'', Optimus Prime's "official" nicknames were at one point considered to be "Autobot Commander", "Chief", "Big Boss" and "Roller". As far as it is known, no piece of fiction has ever purposely addressed him using these nicknames, though it's a fair bet he's been called "chief" at least once or twice anyway. And technically ''part'' of him is called "[[Roller (G1)|Roller]]" with some frequency.

* Optimus Prime has fictionally shown a dislike of certain kinds of music and dance. For the Marvel continuity, a [[Letters page (Marvel UK)|letters pages]] mentions he hates the music of [[wikipedia:Mötley_Crüe|Mötley Crüe]].{{fact}} In the cartoon continuity, "[[Blaster Blues]]" and "[[Quest for Survival]]" have Optimus react noticeably more passive-aggressively to Blaster's choice of music than the other Autobots. And in the Dreamwave continuity, "[[Hardwired]]" features an uncalled for negative remark about Jazz's dance skills.

* According to the staff of ''[[Beast Wars (cartoon)|Beast Wars]]'', Optimus Prime became a space explorer in the [[Beast Era]].<ref>[[Beast Wars Universe]] ISBN 978-4766938005</ref>

[[Image:Optimusprime-mom.jpg|right|125px|thumb|Prime's mom knows how to write in cursive.]]
* By the time Optimus Prime appeared in ''[[Beast Machines (cartoon)|Beast Machines]]'', his 3D model from ''Beast Wars'' had apparently been lost, leading the animators to use a faceplated Optimus Primal head as a quick replacement to save time and budget.

* Aside from occasionally having Alpha Trion as a father figure, Optimus Prime may have a mother! In an advertisement for [[Pepsi Convoy]] that shows him in a refrigerator (along with [[Destron Pizza]]), a note attached to a nearby piece of Tupperware reads:

:''Dear Convoy''
:''Warm it before you eat''
:''Mom''

:Although the ad itself is for Pepsi Convoy, he is a separate character, and it can be assumed that the note was left for Convoy/Optimus Prime himself.

* The first wave of Dreamwave posters in 2001 identified Optimus Prime as [http://www.comicden.com/merch/posters.htm "Captimus Primus"], which is tantalizingly close to making some sort of sense.

* According to EJ Su, Optimus Prime's [[Holomatter|Holomatter avatar]] is modeled after [[wikipedia:Ulysses_S._Grant|Ulysses S. Grant]].<ref>[http://www.protodepot.com/archive/2007_11_01_archive.html Idea: Holomatter Projection]</ref>

* As of [[All Hail Megatron issue 13|All Hail Megatron #13]], Optimus has a mouth underneath that [[faceplate]] of his.

* This Optimus Prime, along with the original [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]], [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]], and [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] makes a cameo appearance as one of the four elders who began the [[Space Bridge]] project in the ''[[Cybertron (cartoon)|Cybertron]]'' episode "[[Balance]]".

* As noted on [http://www.allspark.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=74382 this thread here], Optimus Prime made a surprising (and somewhat awkward) cameo in the [[January]] [[2009]] issue of "P.S.: The Preventive Maintenance Monthly" (#674), a monthly magazine issued by the [[United States Army]] that discusses issues in regards to equipment maintenance (scan included in thread; look for post #5).

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Convoy''' (コンボイ ''Konboi''), '''Orion Pax''' (オライオン・パックス ''Oraion Pakksu''), '''Battle Convoy''' (Laser Optimus Prime, バトルコンボイ ''Batoru Konboi'')
*''Cantonese:'' '''O Baak Man''' (Hong Kong, 柯柏文)
*''Czech:'' '''Optimus Primus'''
*''French:'' '''Optimus Prime''', '''Optimus Primus''' (Canada)
*''Hebrew:'' '''Optimus Prime''' (אופטימוס פריים ''Awpjimws Priim'')
*''Hungarian:'' '''Optimusz Fővezér''', '''Optimusz Prájm''' ("Optimus Chief")
*''Italian:'' '''Commander'''
*''Mandarin:'' '''Jr-tsūn''' (Taiwan, 至尊, "Prime"), '''Qíng Tīan Zhù''' (China, 擎天柱, "Pillar that Supports the Sky")
*''Portuguese:'' '''Optimus Supremo''' (Portugal comics, "Optimus Supreme"), '''Líder Optimus''' (Brazil cartoon, "Leader Optimus"), '''Supremus Absolutus''' (Brazil comic)
*''Russian:'' '''Optimus Prime''' (Оптимус Прайм ''Optimus Prajm'')
*''Serbian:'' '''Optimus Prime''' (Оптимус Прајм ''Optimus Prajm'')
*''Taiwanese:'' '''Tīh-ghŭ''' (鐵牛, "Iron Ox")
*''Ukrainian:'' '''Optimus Najkrashchiy''' (Оптимус Найкращий, "Optimus the Best"), '''Optimus Prime''' (''The Movie'', Оптимус Прайм)

==External links==
* [http://www.ntfa.net/universe/english/index.php?act=view&char=Optimus_Prime Optimus Prime's Universe profile at NTFA.net]
* [http://www.ntfa.net/universe/english/index.php?act=view&char=Optimus_Prime_PM Powermaster Optimus Prime's Universe profile at NTFA.net]

== Footnotes ==
<references />

[[Category:Action Masters]]
[[Category:Alternators Autobots]]
[[Category:Alternity Autobots]]
[[Category:Autobot leaders]]
[[Category:Beast Machines Autobots]]
[[Category:Beast Wars Autobots]]
[[Category:Classics Autobots]]
[[Category:Combiners]]
[[Category:Decoys]]
[[Category:Generation 1 Autobots]]
[[Category:Generation 2 Autobots]]
[[Category:Ghosts]]
[[Category:Gladiators]]
[[Category:Go-Bots]]
[[Category:Hall of Fame]]
[[Category:The Headmasters Autobots]]
[[Category:Henkei! Henkei! Autobots]]
[[Category:Kiss Players Autobots]]
[[Category:Machine Wars Autobots]]
[[Category:Matrix bearers]]
[[Category:Multi-component Transformers]]
[[Category:Music Label]]
[[Category:Powermasters]]
[[Category:Return of Convoy Autobots]]
[[Category:Revenge of the Fallen Autobots]]
[[Category:Robot Masters Autobots]]
[[Category:Rulers of Cybertron]]
[[Category:Transformers with three modes]]
[[Category:United Autobots]]
[[Category:Zombies]]

Depart

2011-08-23T00:40:12Z

Pcnkgcdk:

{{picsneeded}}

{{episode|
|series=Armada
|ep=41
|prev=Remorse
|next=Miracle
|title="Depart"
|japanese=出立 (たびだち) - depart
|romaji=Shuttatsu [Tabidachi]
|translation=Departure (Setting off)
|image=
|caption=
|production code=TF: A-41
|production company=[[TV Tokyo]], [[Nihon Ad Systems|NAS]]
|writer=[[Isao Shizuya]]
|director=[[Osamu Kamijō]], [[Mitsuru Kawasaki]] (asst. dir.)
|animation studio=[[Actas Inc.]]
|airdate=[[October 10|10 October]] [[2003]] (Japanese) [[October 24]], [[2003]] (English)
|continuity=[[Unicron Trilogy]]
}}

'''The Autobots prepare to return to Cybertron, joined — having acquiesced to the demands of Perceptor and the other Mini-Cons — by the kids.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]] addresses the [[Mini-Con|Mini-Cons]] collected by the [[Autobot|Autobots]] so far, announcing that they're soon going to leave for [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. The kids observe how unsure of himself the Autobot is, as he invites the Mini-Cons to decide whether they want to come or not. [[Carlos Lopez|Carlos]] wants to go to Cybertron too. [[Rad White|Rad]] follows [[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]], who unexpectedly tells him in English to stay on Earth. After Rad reacts in surprise to this, High Wire beeps and wanders off, leaving the boy to wonder if he imagined it after all.

Rad has breakfast with [[Rad White's parents|his parents]] and asks his father if he ever wanted to go into space. Rad's mother seems more concerned with them finishing their breakfast. At base, the Autobots and Mini-Cons are preparing the spaceship for lift off. [[Billy (Armada)|Billy]] and [[Fred (Armada)|Fred]] arrive with luggage, only to be disappointed when Red Alert informs them they won't be able to come along. The other three kids watch, glumly reflecting that most likely they won't be able to come along either.

[[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] expresses dissatisfaction that they haven't made much progress towards Cybertron, but [[Thrust (Armada)|Thrust]] says they have to escape Earth's gravitational pull before they go to warp.

That night, Rad wakes his parents to explain to them about the Autobots and Decepticons, and is told to go back to bed. He dreams of the Autobot ship under attack, and High Wire asking him for help. On waking abruptly, his father comes in to chat, confiding that when he was Rad's age, he dreamed of going into space too. He also gives Rad permission to go to Cybertron, but only if Rad promises to come back.

The next morning sees Rad interrupting Carlos brushing his teeth. Carlos is already packed, and the pair meet up with [[Alexis Thi Dang|Alexis]], also all packed, on their way to the Autobot base.

Hot Shot asks the Mini-Cons to step forward if they're coming to Cybertron, and they all volunteer to go. The kids arrive too, but Hot Shot refuses to let them go. Reacting to this, the [[Street Action Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Street Action Mini-Con Team]] combine into [[Perceptor (Armada)|Perceptor]] and begin making a strange whistling noise. The Mini-Cons start running out of the room. Red Alert, prepping the ship for launch, is surprised when the Mini-Cons storm in and block all the control panels on the bridge. While the Autobots are confused, Perceptor announces that the humans should come too. [[Side Swipe (Armada)|Side Swipe]] suggests taking the kids somewhere safe, but the Mini-Cons start whistling until Hot Shot capitulates.

Billy and Fred turn up while everyone is piling into the ship, and Hot Shot resigns himself to letting them come along too. Once everything is ready, the ship, dubbed the [[Axalon (Armada)|Axalon]], moves along an underwater corridor to a nearby lake, where it lifts off. The kids rush to a window to see Earth from space.

The Decepticons detect the Autobot ship leaving Earth. Thrust laments that their superior engines will enable them to pass the Decepticon ship and reach Cybertron first.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]] (1)
*[[Scavenger (Armada)|Scavenger]] (13)
*[[Smokescreen (Armada)|Smokescreen]] (19)
*[[Blurr (Armada)|Blurr]] (20)
*[[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]] (21)
*[[Side Swipe (Armada)|Side Swipe]] (22)
*[[Red Alert (Armada)|Red Alert]] (25)
Optimus Prime (Rad's flashback)

|c2=
*[[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] (28)
*[[Thrust (Armada)|Thrust]] (29)
*[[Cyclonus (Armada)|Cyclonus]] (30)
*[[Wheeljack (Armada)|Wheeljack]] (31)
*[[Starscream (Armada)|Starscream]] (32)
*[[Demolishor (Armada)|Demolishor]] (38)

|c3=
*[[Alexis Thi Dang|Alexis]] (14)
*[[Carlos Lopez]] (15)
*[[Rad White]] (16)
*[[Billy (Armada)|Billy]] (23)
*[[Fred (Armada)|Fred]] (24)

'''Guests'''

*[[Rad White's parents|Rad's father]] (17)
*[[Rad White's parents|Rad's mother]] (18)
*Research center technicians (37)

|h4=[[Mini-Con|Mini-Cons]]|c4=
*[[Sureshock (Armada)|Sureshock]] (2)
*[[Grindor (Armada)|Grindor]] (3)
*[[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]] (4)
*[[Knock Out (Armada)|Knock Out]] (5)
*[[Oval]] (6)
*[[Stormcloud (Armada)|Stormcloud]] (7)
*[[Backtrack (Armada)|Backtrack]] (8)
*[[Buzzsaw (Armada)|Buzzsaw]] (9)
*[[Spiral]] (10)
*[[Waterlog (Armada)|Waterlog]] (11)
*[[Wreckage (Armada)|Wreckage]] (12)
*[[Jolt (Armada)|Jolt]] (26)
*[[Sparkplug (Armada)|Sparkplug]] (27)
*[[Oceanglide]] (33)
*[[Perceptor (Armada)|Perceptor]] (34)
*[[Longarm (Armada)|Longarm]] (35)
*[[Rollbar (Armada)|Rollbar]] (36)
}}

==Quotes==
"I think I'm going to leave it up to you to decide your own stations. And, uh, if any of you decide to join us and defeat the Decepticons once and for all, that's up to you. Oh, and if you decide to stay back here on Earth, that's okay, too." 
:—'''Hot Shot''' is the best Autobot leader ever.

"Please, Red Alert. We're here to help you battle. You really think you can do it without us?" 
"You need us!"
:—'''Billy''' and '''Fred''' overestimate their importance.

"How many times have I told you? Sci-fi is for your friends, not your parents."
:—'''Rad's mother''' doesn't want to hear about the Transformers.

"Ah, but now those are just childhood memories for me. Memories of when I let my imagination run wild and the world was filled with endless possibilities." 
"Whoa, dad!" 
"Never give up on your dreams. Sometimes that's all that we have."
:—'''Rad's father''' tells '''Rad''' about how it was before his soul was crushed.

==Notes==
===Differences with ''Micron Legend''===
===Lost in translation===
===Animation and/or technical glitches===
*More short cuts are employed in a few shots to depict the huge number of Mini-Cons amassed by the Autobots so far, at one point making it look like they've assembled into colour-coordinated lines.

===Continuity errors===
===Trivia===
*This episode features an entirely new title sequence, which unfortunately spoils the return of Optimus Prime, and "[[The Unicron Battles]]" is appended as a subtitle.
*Two days travel, and the Decepticons are still in scanner range of Earth? Tell Tidal Wave to pedal faster!
*Rad's father complains about how much of a mess Rad's room is, yet when we see Rad's bedroom floor a moment earlier, there's no sign of the "clutter" his father speaks of.
*Looking out his bathroom window, Carlos asks Rad what he's doing with his backpack on a Saturday. In the next scene, Rad's parents discuss him leaving for school so early. If they have classes on Saturdays, Carlos shouldn't be surprised. If they don't, Rad's parents apparently can't even keep track of what day it is.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2004 — ''Transformers: Micron Legend'' — Volume 11 ([[Columbia Music Entertainment]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2006 — ''Transformers: Armada'' — Season One: Part Two ([[Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Germany.png|20px|Germany]] 2009 — ''Transformers: Armada'' — Volume Two ([[New KSM]]) — English and German audio.

[[Category:Armada episodes]]