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The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 1

2024-06-15T08:41:51Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode|
|series=G1toon
|series2=2010
|ep=94
|ep2=31
|prev2=The Desperate Struggle of Justice
|next2=The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 2
|image=ReturnOptimusPrime1 Optimus lives.JPG
|caption=And there was much rejoicing (yay).
|title="The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 1"
|season=3
|season ep=29
|production code=700-115
|airdate=[[February 24]], [[1987]]
|written by=[[Marv Wolfman]] [[Cherie Wilkerson]]
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|animation studio=[[Toei Animation|Toei]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
|video=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wslJ-Dn9L_g
|videosite=YouTube
}}
'''An embittered scientist uses the body of Optimus Prime to unleash a dangerous plague on the Autobots and, ultimately, the universe.'''

==Synopsis==
[[File:ReturnofOptimus1 Prime rescue.jpg|left|upright=1.1|thumb|"You're right, it is athlete's foot."]]
While on a deep-space mission in the ''[[Solaris]]'' to test a new [[Impervious alloy|heat-and-radiation-resistant alloy]] that they have developed, scientists [[Jessica Morgan]] and [[Gregory Swofford]] detect a ship carrying [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]]'s body on a collision course with a planetoid orbiting a star they are researching nearby. Despite Gregory's reservations (his face was scarred in a previous scuffle between Optimus Prime and [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]], which he blames on Optimus), he is talked into helping Jessica rescue Prime's body before the ship collides with the planetoid, the impact of which also sets off the star into a supernova and coating their ship with unusual spores.

[[File:ReturnofOptimus1 Scattershot rescues Jessica.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Don't worry, I'll help you rescue your daug-OOH LOOK, A BUNNY!]]
Upon their return to [[Earth]], [[Mark Morgan|Jessica's father]] studies the spores and learns that they are not only alive, but are an [[Hate Plague|incredibly contagious viral agent]] that induces hatred and destructive urges into whoever they contaminate. The humans don't have long to dwell on this discovery, however, as the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]], sent by [[Galvatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Galvatron]] to steal the heat-resistant alloy, begin attacking the lab. While the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobots]] soon arrive to fight off the [[Decepticon]]s, [[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]] overpowers [[Computron (G1)|Computron]] and the Terrorcons are able to make off with the alloy. To make matters worse, a falling piece of rubble gravely injures Jessica. Outraged by the Transformers' actions, her father is convinced by Gregory to try and resurrect Prime's body as a carrier of the spores against the [[Autobot]]s, a sentiment exacerbated when it's learned Jessica was paralyzed from the waist down in the accident and now needs a special [[exosuit]] to walk. However, when reviving Prime's body turns out to be impossible for them, Gregory and Jessica's father decide to use it as bait for the other Autobots. Dr. Morgan forces Jessica to lure them into a spore trap at the lab.

The trap goes off without a hitch, mostly due to [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Rodimus]]' reckless haste in recovering his predecessor's corpse ''even though Jessica tells him it's a trap'', and several Autobots—including [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] and [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]], two of the most powerful Autobot gestalts—are infected. The Decepticons have learned about Optimus Prime's recovery as well, and have shown up to terminate the former Autobot leader permanently, but are instead infected themselves. Fortunately, Rodimus, Jessica, and Galvatron manage to escape unharmed, the former two with Optimus' body; a few other Autobots manage to escape infection as well, but are badly wounded while attempting to subdue a sickened and crazed Superion.

[[File:ReturnofOptimus1 Magnus sneaks up.jpg|left|upright=1.1|thumb|Rodimus has [[Energy vampire|no reflection]]?]]
Back at Autobot City, Rodimus pleads to [[Wreck-Gar (G1)|Wreck-Gar]] to try and repair Prime, but Prime is too far gone even for [[Junkion (species)|Junkion]] medical experience. Desperate, Rodimus contacts [[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]] and orders him to locate and bring back a [[Quintesson]], remembering that they had [[Dark Awakening (episode)|once before restored Optimus to life]]. He then sets about disconnecting [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] to keep the city-former from becoming infected. However, just as he finishes the final steps to do so, an infected [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ultra Magnus]] appears. He gives chase to Rodimus before he's temporarily subdued by Wreck-Gar... who ends up becoming infected, and infecting Rodimus in return.

[[File:ReturnofOptimus1 Quintesson fixing Prime.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|You put your right arm in. You put your right arm out.]]
TV station [[KSUN]] reports that the Hate Plague, as it's now called, has spread like wildfire across the planet. Scenes of chaos and destruction unfold in [[Washington, D.C.]] and elsewhere. The plague has even made its way off-world, sending the Quintessons into hiding at the ends of the galaxy. Sky Lynx finds [[Klementia|an uninfected Quintesson]] who he saves from infected Sharkticons in exchange for reviving Optimus. The Quintesson warns that—should anything go too awry during the process — there's a good chance that Optimus will never live again. It's touch-and-go for a while, but eventually, the Quintesson manages to pull through and Optimus is restored to full life, declaring that "no force in the Universe can stop me."

[[The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 2|To be continued]]...
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
{{collist|2|
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] (4)
*[[Afterburner (G1)|Afterburner]] (11)
*[[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] (12)
*[[Lightspeed (G1 Technobot)|Lightspeed]] (13)
*[[Scattershot (G1)|Scattershot]] (14)
*[[Nosecone (G1)|Nosecone]] (15)
*[[Computron (G1)|Computron]] (17)
*[[First Aid (G1)|First Aid]] (18)
*[[Blades (G1)|Blades]] (19)
*[[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Spot]] (20)
*[[Wideload (G1)|Wideload]] (21)
*[[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (22)
*[[Ultra Magnus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ultra Magnus]] (23)
*[[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Rodimus Prime]] (24)
*[[Streetwise (G1)|Streetwise]] (26)
*[[Groove (G1)|Groove]] (27)
*[[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]] (28)
*[[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (29)
*[[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (30)
*[[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (31)
*[[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]] (32)
*[[Superion (G1)|Superion]] (33)
*[[Chase (G1)|Chase]] (34)
*[[Freeway (G1)|Freeway]] (35)
*[[Searchlight (G1)|Searchlight]] (36)
*[[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (37)
*[[Blurr (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blurr]] (38)
*[[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]] (39)
*[[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]] (40)
*[[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]] (51)
*[[Wreck-Gar (G1)|Wreck-Gar]] (52)
*[[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]] (53)
*[[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] (54)
}}
|c2=
*[[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (5; flashback)
*[[Cutthroat (G1)|Cutthroat]] (6)
*[[Rippersnapper (G1)|Rippersnapper]] (7)
*[[Sinnertwin (G1)|Sinnertwin]] (8)
*[[Blot (G1)|Blot]] (9)
*[[Hun-Gurrr (G1)|Hun-Gurrr]] (10)
*[[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]] (16)
*[[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] (25)
*[[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] (41)
*[[Cyclonus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cyclonus]] (42)
*[[Scourge (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Scourge]] (43)
*[[Galvatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Galvatron]] (44)
*[[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] (45)
*[[Drag Strip (G1)|Drag Strip]] (46)
*[[Motormaster (G1)|Motormaster]] (47)
*[[Dead End (G1)|Dead End]] (48)
*[[Wildrider (G1)|Wildrider]] (49)
*[[Breakdown (G1)|Breakdown]] (50)
*[[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] (56)
*[[Headstrong (G1)|Headstrong]] (57)
*[[Razorclaw (G1)|Razorclaw]] (58)
|c3=
*[[Gregory Swofford]] (1)
*[[Jessica Morgan]] (2)
*[[Mark Morgan]] (3)
*[[Bonnie Carlson]] (55)
|c4=
*[[Klementia|Quintesson judge]] (59)
*[[Sharkticon (species)|Sharkticons]] (60)
}}

==Notable quotes==
"Computron think too much!"
:—'''Abominus''', who subsequently shoots Computron

"Why do I keep seeing you in my dreams, Optimus? Are you telling me I'm not the leader ''you'' were? I already know that, Optimus. I always have."
:—'''Rodimus''' ponders in front of [[Optimus Prime memorial|Optimus's memorial statue]] in Metroplex.

[[File:ReturnOptimusPrime1 hate-plague Magnus.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
"Where's that punk Rodimus Prime?! I want him!" 
"There you are, you puny wimp!" 
"You can't escape, Rodimus! I can track your gas fumes anywhere!"
:—Several lines from infected '''Ultra Magnus''' as he tracks down Rodimus Prime. ''In virus veritas,'' indeed.

"The Autobots are acting like madmen!" 
"It's a madness plague, Galvatron. If one of those Transformers touches you, you're infected." 
"You're lying!" 
"Fine. Whatever makes you a happy Decepticon. Just watch your rear thruster."
:—'''Galvatron''' and '''Rodimus Prime'''

"I'm a doctor, not a forklift!" 
"His engines, they cannae take the strain!" 
"He's dead, Jim." 
:—'''Wreck-Gar'''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s inspired medical descriptions of Optimus Prime's condition

"It's over, kid. I've won!" 
"Don't believe it, old friend!"
:—Infected '''Ultra Magnus''' blocks '''Rodimus Prime''', who evades him.

"Like I said before, kid. It's all over. What...? ARGH!" 
"And as ''I'' said before: Don't believe it."
:—Infected '''Ultra Magnus''' corners '''Rodimus Prime''', only to be lassoed by Wreck-Gar.

"I'm a pepper! Wouldn't you like to be a pepper, too?"
:—'''Wreck-Gar''' merrily spreads the infection.

"They've all gone mad. This is no place for me!"
:—The irony is lost on '''Galvatron.'''

"The world needs a leader now!"
:—'''Sky Lynx''' on the reactivation of Optimus Prime

"I've done it! Optimus Prime lives!" 
"It's true. Our leader is back." 
"Yes, Sky Lynx, and this time, no force in the universe can stop me."
:—'''Quintesson''' and '''Sky Lynx''' as the decidedly confident '''Optimus Prime''' is revived

==Season 5==
{{note|When this episode was rebroadcast in [[The Transformers (cartoon)#Season 5|the fifth season]] of ''The Transformers'', it contained new bookending segments with original story material.}}
[[File:PrimeTommyInterviewAgain.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
[[Tommy Kennedy|Tommy]] meets with [[Powermaster]] [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] in the barren wasteland to continue his interview inquiring as to how Optimus came back from the dead. Tommy recaps the time Prime came back as a zombie and was blown to smithereens and is curious how Optimus escaped ''that'' one. Optimus proceeds to relate the adventures of his inanimate corpse...

Tommy wants to know the rest of the tale, but Optimus only teases the conclusion. Apparently, he promised [[Cloudburst]] that he would help him redesign his retro-rockets and the appointment can't wait. Prime sets Tommy down, but promises to return soon to transform his day into an adventure.
{{--}}

==Notes==
===Production information===
* First draft script: 10 November 1986
* Script finalised by [[Roger Slifer]]

===Continuity notes===
[[File:ReturnOptimusPrime1 Chase infected.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.3|Here begins an almost criminal legacy of scriptwriters abusing the Throttlebots.]]
*Seemingly thrown in at the last moment, the [[Throttlebot]]s make their debut. They're only visible in a handful of shots, [[Rollbar (G1)|Rollbar]] is missing, and none of them are identified by name.
*Swofford and Morgan must've spent ''one hell of a long time'' repairing Optimus Prime if they managed to retrieve him from the Quintessons' detonator all the way back to [[Dark Awakening (episode)|"Dark Awakening"]]. Either that, or Optimus died before his ship hit the detonator and his ship drifted precariously off course for the last several months.
*It's not clear what Rodimus means by "disconnecting" Metroplex; he apologizes as though it's a terrible thing, leading some fans to speculate that he was shutting him down for good - but later he says that Metroplex is "safe", implying that he's just... separated somehow.
*The Hate Plague can apparently infect any creature, both purely mechanical and biological.
*The Autobots are implied to have created the exosuit for Jessica so she can walk again. Hmm, one wonders if this technology could have been [[Chip Chase|useful before now]]…
*Even though it occurs in a flashback, this is ''technically'' the last appearance of Megatron in the original American series. This is also Soundwave's last appearance in the original American series, as his toy was discontinued by the time [[The Rebirth|"The Rebirth"]] aired.

===Real-world references===
*Jessica mentions [[World War II]].
*Courtesy of Wreck-Gar:
**"Lucy, Lucy, what have you done now?" Is a reference to ''{{w|I Love Lucy}}''.
**"I'm a doctor, not a forklift!" and "He's dead, Jim," reference popular quotes from ''[[Star Trek]]'' medic [[Leonard McCoy]].
**Similarly, "His engines, they cannae take the strain!" comes from another ''Star Trek'' character, namely [[Scotty|Montgomery Scott]], though this is often claimed to not be attributed to the character except for its use in parodies.
**"I'm a pepper! Wouldn't you like to be a pepper, too?" is a reference to an old {{w|Dr Pepper}} ad campaign in the late '70s to early '80s.
**"Well, excuuuuse us!" is a reference to a catchphrase of {{w|Steve Martin}}.
*A couple of the infection rioting scenes seem to portray [[Washington, D.C.]]. Humans are shown rioting at a badly-drawn Lincoln Memorial; the monument that Defensor throws ''may'' be intended to be the [[Washington Monument]], though it's awfully stumpy and shouldn't have a projecting cap on top. He throws it into a Classically styled building, another common DC element.

===Animation and technical errors===
[[File:Swindle TROOP.jpg|right|upright=1.4|thumb|"So we bought your daughter's exosuit from a Decepticon... what's so bad about that?"]]
*The first shot of Prime's ship shows it colored in orange. In all other shots, it's white with orange landing gear. And it looks totally different from its [[Dark Awakening (episode)|last appearance]].
*The first shot of Optimus Prime on Gregory's display shows him sitting in a red chair. It's yellow in other shots.
*As the duo first come upon Prime's body, he's missing the vertical line on his abs/grille.
*The animation and editing seem to conflate Prime's ship hitting the asteroid (shown using rather incongruently recycled animation from "Dark Awakening") with the star going nova at the same instant, conveying them as though they were the same event.
*If the star is going nova - shouldn't its light be visible outside the windows behind Jessica?
*In the first interior shot of Morgan's lab, the two test rats are already red before they've been infected. One is layered behind the glass box that's containing him, too.
*The screen separating the infected rats rises up out of solid table. In the same shot, the three humans' colors all change shade several times; meanwhile, the infected rats aren't glowing anymore.
*As Computron falls through the lab's ceiling, the hand that breaks through the building is colored purple like Abominus's.
*Abominus's visor is white instead of red as he stomps on the building; his helmet has some gray parts that should be purple as well.
*There's no transition between the Terrorcons being merged as they stomp on the building, and them showing up separated just a shot or two later.
*The Terrorcons grab the alloy in their beast modes, yet in the next shot they're running out with it in robot mode.
*As Jessica is being loaded into First Aid, Gregory and Mark are wearing smocks, not the suits and ties they wear in other shots.
*When Gregory and Jessica's father rush at the hospital and find the Autobots, [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] is amongst them. This does at least explain why Hot Spot is standing around in a ''hospital'' with a gun in his hand. Hot Spot's chestplate is also blue, instead of its proper red.
*Jessica grabs tops of Optimus' arm to try and save him from the incinerator (though one of her hands fails to actually connect with Prime's arm, instead floating just above it.) The next shot shows it towering over her.
*As he drives Jessica into Autobot City, Ultra Magnus is shown driving into a tunnel in one shot, but in the next he's in open air.
*Optimus' statue is missing the smoke stacks on its arms.
*Rodimus' helmet is missing its horizontal line in this episode.
*When Rodimus is done talking to Optimus' statue, his head slides backwards. Twice.
*When Defensor is shown after the Protectobots combine, his left arm is missing, and his forehead is colored blue instead of his eyes.
*After transforming to jet mode during Magnus's rollcall, Silverbolt sort of floats along at an angle.
*Steeljaw just pops into the frame during the Autobot rollcall.
*When Ratbat returns:
**A layering error has him in front of Soundwave's chest compartment door, instead of disappearing behind it.
**His cassette form is white instead of purple.
**Soundwave looks down after his chest closes up, but his faceplate stays in its previous position of looking upwards.
**Soundwave's vocoded voice processing (provided by [[Scott Brownlee]]) sounds higher pitched than usual. Presumably it was fed through a different synthesizer for this episode.
*When Galvatron says, "So Optimus Prime may yet live." For a second his chin turns black.
*When Jessica exits Rodimus, she's wearing her space suit and not wearing her exoskeleton.
*When Jessica points at the lab, her neckline is layered over her hand.
*When Rodimus dispatches some of the Autobots to watch the area around the lab, Wheelie is missing his Autobot symbol.
*Before entering the lab to retrieve Prime's body, Rodimus gives orders to Defensor...though Defensor is shown as the one mouthing all of those orders. In the same shot, Chase is colored as Goldbug (who hasn't even been built yet!)
*The red glow around infected characters seemed to create all kinds of problems for the animators:
**The glow aura is frequently out of step with the animation or visible through objects in front of them
**Infected characters often become briefly transparent, allowing background objects to be seen through them.
**Often characters are just red, without the glowing aura effect, as when Superion breaks through the lab roof.
*When the Autobots get infected, several are shown clipping through each other.
*Slingshot is shown mouthing Magnus's lines about "that punk Rodimus Prime".
*Jessica's bracelet disappears from and re-appears on her right wrist throughout the episode - including during the shot when she turns to run back to the lab (when Rodimus says "We've got to get Optimus outta here!")
[[File:ROOP1 superion hateplague.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
*Superion shoots a gun with the sound effect of Megatron's cannon. Defensor fires back with Optimus Prime's usual sound effect.
**Superion's still using the same sound effect later, along with a whining after-effect, when he takes out Kup and company.
**Then Ultra Magnus gets in on the act as he blasts his way into the Autobot lab with the same sound effects.
*Superion is not nearly as huge as he should be when he takes on the police officers.
*As Rodimus first makes his escape from Magnus, he drives past two [[Throttlebot]]s... with the Decepticon Wildrider standing between them. (at this point, the Decepticons have yet to arrive on the scene, let alone become infected.)
*Mark's thrown jar doesn't leave behind any pieces after it shatters.
*Galvatron's chin is gray in some shots, dark gray in others.
*As the Decepticons walk into the loading area, Bruticus is the same size as all the regular Decepticons, and Swindle is colored red.
*Rodimus's windshield is colored solid as he makes his escape from the lab.
*First Aid is shown brawling with the Decepticons at the lab; at this point he is out with the Protectobots, not yet infected.
*Kup's vehicle mode is drawn like a van instead of a truck as he pulls up behind Superion.
*Flying Autobots:
**Blurr sort of floats along sideways as he shoots at Superion.
*Superion manages to hit all the Autobots attacking him... without lifting his gun arm to shoot!
*Defensor's chest plates are blue instead of black as he tries to clear the bridge.
*After Defensor is infected and falls apart, Streetwise is depicted as a bizarre mash-up of himself and Rodimus Prime, at one point even possessing a glowing aura of Rodimus's spoiler despite one not being drawn on his back!
*Rodimus's mouth doesn't move as he starts talking about Quintessons.
*Sky Lynx is shown flying out of the solar system past Saturn, but it's colored white instead of yellow.
*When Rodimus notices Magnus behind him, his eyes are lined thicker than usual. He sees Magnus's reflection in the viewscreen, but not his own.
*When Wreck-Gar is about to infect Rodimus, Rodimus is all red before he's been infected.
*During Brawl's rampage, he somehow manages to infect an inanimate truck.
*As an unconscious man leans against this truck, a pair of infected people fight over both him and the truck, overlapping them as if it they weren't there.
*Headstrong bumps into Razorclaw; as Razorclaw gains the infected glow effect, a layering error causes him to jump from behind Headstrong to in front of him, and back again.
[[File:ReturnOptimusPrime1 InfectedVortex.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
*Vortex, meanwhile, flies into a commercial jetliner through its passenger door! In the same shot, he's visible through the arm of a passing human. He also gets the Autobot laser sound effect when he opens fire.
*The rioting humans at the Lincoln Memorial are wielding bats which also glow infection-red.
*When Defensor picks up a stone monument to throw, the monument gains a red aura around it, but does not become red. The red aura disappears when the monument is thrown.
*Before being picked up by Sky Lynx, one of the Quintesson's faces flashes red for a moment.
*The Quintesson's death face is missing its left-side cresting as he prepares to reactivate Prime.
*The Quintesson's Egyptian-styled head is facing Optimus at the end, but one shot shows it facing backwards.
*During his famous line at the end of the episode, Optimus Prime's mouthplate isn't moving.

===Continuity errors===
[[File:Retcon.jpg|right|upright=1.1|thumb|Someone fixed Prime's body, but no one can fix the story.]]
*More or less this entire episode is a massive continuity error, as it purports to pick up at the end of Optimus Prime's last prior appearance in "[[Dark Awakening (episode)|Dark Awakening]]", yet actually presents entirely different conditions. In the prior episode, Optimus Prime lost an arm and half of his face (on top of his longstanding physical damage still left from the [[The Transformers: The Movie|animated movie]]), but was still alive as he managed to steer his ship at high speed through the heavy fire of a massed Quintesson spacefleet, deliberately ramming a detonator that caused a binary supernova and obliterated the ship and the entire solar system around it. Yet in this new episode, Optimus Prime is shown completely intact and pristine, albeit dead, as his (completely different) ship drifts, slowly and alone, through the system.
**Some of these inconsistencies can be attributed to the fact that "Dark Awakening" was animated by AKOM, and this episode by Toei.
**The original script addressed the events of "Dark Awakening," right down to his severely damaged state. It included sequences in which he was repaired by Dr. Morgan and Dr. Swofford in order to weaponize him with the spores. Interestingly enough, there were also scenes showing Rodimus Prime experiencing nightmares playing out in the celestial Autobot tomb, where he encountered his zombified predecessor. For some reason, most likely running time, these scenes didn't make it into the final episode.
*Jessica Morgan and Gregory Swofford detect life-signs aboard Optimus Prime's ship, but the Autobot is dead.
*Gregory says Prime's ship is about to collide with a planet, while the animation shows the ship approaching a small, irregular asteroid.
*Improbable viewpoints:
**Gregory and Jessica get a shot of Prime sitting inside his ship.
**Rodimus contacts Sky Lynx and gets an exterior visual of him somehow.
*Superhuman <s>Spike</s> humans:
**Jessica Morgan and Gregory Swofford are able to lift, push and pull Optimus Prime's massive body out of his chair and onto their ship without any mechanical assistance or devices except a rope. There's no gravity in space, but objects still have mass and therefore inertia.
*Why didn't any of the Autobots notice Optimus Prime's body when they were loading Jessica into the ambulance? Sure he was half buried under rubble, but a truck-sized leader of your own faction shouldn't be ''that'' hard to notice?
*Why is Steeljaw part of the Autobot roll call when Blaster is not?
*In the finished episode, the Decepticons are just... hanging out in an empty sports arena (adjacent to some industrial buildings) when Ratbat flies in to give his intel. Per the script, Galvatron was supposed to be engaging in target practice in front of a cheering Decepticon crowd before Ratbat shows up, explaining their non-sequitur of a location. Somewhat confusingly, however, the script also describes the sports arena as being '''within''' Trypticon (Decepticon Headquarters), an idea which was dropped outright from the final animation.
*Even though Ratbat's reconnaissance recording consists of nothing more than an ambiguous, one-line statement by Jessica Morgan - "My father has his body in the lab." - Galvatron immediately knows that she's referring to Optimus Prime.
*Why have the Protectobots merge before traveling to the lab? Did Defensor have to [[:File:Loveandsteel-runfortmaxrun.jpg|run the whole way?]]
*Wheelie, present in the initial roll call and called out in dialogue alongside Bumblebee, Blurr, and Steeljaw, seems to have been replaced by Kup by the time they confront the infected Superion. The original script mentions Wheelie just once, in a revised version of their arrival at the lab, and evidently the roll call was updated to match.
*Doctor Morgan throws spores at Rodimus, apparently not noticing that ''his own daughter'' is inside him, even though we see her clearly through his windows in several other shots.
*When Jessica Morgan asks who built Optimus Prime in the first place, Rodimus Prime responds by saying the Quintessons did so - but it was [[Alpha Trion (G1)|Alpha Trion]] who rebuilt Orion Pax into Optimus. While the Quintessons are credited with creating the Transformer race, the timeline shown by "[[War Dawn (episode)|War Dawn]]" and "[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4]]" would have to be seriously stretched out of shape for Orion Pax to have been directly created by them - Orion's clearly meant to be a youngish 'bot in "War Dawn", long after the Quints have been driven off Cybertron.
*Why is Rodimus so desperate to bring Optimus back from the dead even after he's aware of the much more pressing concern of the Hate Plague?
*Rodimus decides to deactivate Metroplex to stop him from catching the plague, but Magnus is infected and already walking around on him well before Rodimus pushes the last switch.
*If the Quintessons really are "in hiding in the far reaches of the galaxy" as Sky Lynx claims, then how did any of the at-the-time-still-Earthbound Hate Plague carriers manage to find them, much less get all the way out there to infect them in the first place?
*For that matter, how the hell did these theoretical Hate Plague carriers manage to ''beat Sky Lynx to the Quintessons''?
*How are Sky Lynx and the Quintesson able to take the time to revive Optimus Prime without being attacked? Did all the other Autobots and humans leave Autobot City?
*And how does Sky Lynx know the Quintesson is repairing Prime back to the way he was before he died, rather than the brainwashed version from "Dark Awakening"? It's possible he stood and watched as they worked to ensure they didn't do just that.
*Sky Lynx seems to have shrunk to the size of an average Transformer when he was with the Quintesson repairing Optimus Prime.

===Trivia===
*The resurrection of Optimus Prime in the show was a direct result of children's reactions to his death in ''The Transformers: The Movie'' and subsequent letters, as acknowledged by a Hasbro exec in a 1987 newspaper article.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20060813092845/http://www.electric-escape.net/node/587 "Hasbro Can't Toy with Optimus Prime", ''The Shreveport Times'', March 28, 1987]</ref> He didn't even have a toy on the shelves (which changed in [[1988]] with the release of Powermaster Optimus Prime).
*This two-part story was a late addition to the third season of the series that was fast-tracked for production shortly after the movie's release. Promos stating that Optimus Prime would return were aired as early as [[October 2]], [[1986]], during the first airing of "[[Starscream's Ghost]]" (and after Prime's initial return and second death in "Dark Awakening"), less than two months after the premiere of ''The Transformers: The Movie''.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2_vaeTp1qQ EMERGENCY AUTOBOT ALERT]</ref>
*Jessica Morgan is named after co-writer Marv Wolfman's daughter.<ref>http://www.marvwolfman.com/marv/Speaking_With_Larry_Ditillio.html</ref>
*When Rodimus wants to put together a team to pick up a dead body from a couple of humans, he doesn't mess around, does he? (Although not without [[Hate Plague|good reason]].)
*The original script has the Hate Plague's effects causing a blue aura, not a red one.
*The script also describes the Quintesson who revives Optimus Prime as "one of the older Quintessons, having four heads". As it is, the animation shows the unnamed Quint using each of his species' standard five faces at different points in the episode, although in some scenes where his full body is visible (such as when he's working on Prime with Sky Lynx next to him), he '''is''' in fact only drawn with four.

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title (European French broadcast and DVD release):'' "'''Le retour d'Optimus Prime, partie 1'''" ("The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 1")
:*''Title (Canadian French broadcast):'' "'''Le retour d'Optimus, partie 1'''" ("The Return of Optimus, Part 1")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''German'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Die Rückkehr von Optimus Prime, Teil 1'''" ("The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 1")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Italian'''
:*''Title (first dub):'' "'''Il ritorno di Commander, Parte 1'''" ("The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 1")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
::*In English Gregory's clock simply says how much time remains, but in this dub it speaks in a more comical manner urging him and Jessica to hurry:
:::*«Four minutes remaining» is kept the same.
:::*«Three minutes remaining» becomes: «I said it's three minutes!».
:::*«Two minutes remaining» becomes: «Pay attention, it's two minutes!».
:::*«One minute remaining» becomes: «Told ya! One minute...»
:::*«Ten seconds remaining. Nine. Eight.» becomes: «It's just ten seconds! Two. One.» (yes, it says "two" after "ten"...).
::*Technobots are called by their English name, although used as an invariable noun.
::*Metroplex usually speaks using French words in this dub but, in this episode, this is taken to the next level since his line is 100% French (although Rodimus is called by his Italian name). Everything he says is: «Mais oui, je comprend, Captain. C'est la vie...» (literally: «Yes, I understand, Rodimus. That's life...»).
:*''Title (second dub):'' "'''Il ritorno di Optimus Prime, Parte 1'''" ("The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 1")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' コンボイの復活パート1 (''Convoy no Fukkatsu Part 1'', "The Resurrection of Convoy Part 1")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[June 18]], [[1987]]
::*A "[[Secret Files of Teletraan II]]" segment unique to Japan was attached to the end of this episode. It focuses on the many battles between the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbot]]s and the [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticon]]s. It replaces the original "Secret Files" segment which focused on the Autobots.

'''Mandarin'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Qíngtiānzhù Fùhuó (shàng)'''" (擎天柱复活(上),"Optimus Prime Resurrects, Part 1")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;VHS
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 1987 — ''The Transformers'' — The Return of Optimus Prime ([[Family Home Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of Germany.png|20px|Germany]] 1987 — ''Transformers'' — Die Rückkehr von Optimus Prime (Erster Teil) ([[Polyband]]) — German audio only. 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1988 — ''Transformers'' — The Return of Optimus Prime: Optimus Prime the Ultimate Robot ([[Tempo Video]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1989 — ''Transformers'' — Headmasters / The Return of Optimus Prime (Tempo Video) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1991 — ''Transformers'' — Headmasters / The Return of Optimus Prime / Cosmic Rust (Tempo Video) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2000 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Volume 7: The Return of Optimus Prime ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]])
;{{w|LaserDisc}}
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1999 — ''The Transformers: 2010'' ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2001 — ''The Transformers: 2010'' — DVD Box (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2004 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 3 Part 2 & Season 4 ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Season 3 and Season 4 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Collection 5: Series 3.2 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2005 — ''Transformers'' — Volume 23 ([[Déclic Images]]) — European French audio only. 
[[File:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2005 — ''Transformers'' — Le Retour d'Optimus Prime ([[UFG Junior]]) — European French audio only. 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2009 — ''Transformers'' — Season's Three & Four {{sic}} (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2010 — ''The Transformers'' — Seasons Three & Four: 25th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2011 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Original Series (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''The Transformers'' — Seasons Three & Four: 30th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2014 — ''Transformers'' — The Classic Animated Series (Metrodome)

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* [https://drive.google.com/open?id=1yIcRHVU2laR4GYla_ZSESsPRN66HOsJu Full episode script, submitted 10th November 1986]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Return of Optimus Prime, Part 1}}
[[Category:The Transformers episodes]]

Ginrai's high-speed hovercraft

2024-04-12T23:25:08Z

RQ87-D2: /* Super-God Masterforce cartoon */

:''Ginrai's high-speed hovercraft is a vehicle from the [[Transformers: Super-God Masterforce (franchise)|Super-God Masterforce]] portion of the [[Generation 1 continuity family]].''

[[Image:Ginrai hovercraft.jpg|300px|thumb|right]]

'''Ginrai's high-speed hovercraft''' is an Autobot vehicle. It has the ability to speed over the water at high speeds as well as submerge. Impressive!

==Fiction==
===''Super-God Masterforce'' cartoon===
When the Autobots discovered that the Decepticons were kidnapping doctors in the vicinity of the [[Karin Islands]], the [[Godmaster (lifeform)|Godmasters]] took [[Ginrai (human)|Ginrai's]] high-speed hovercraft to investigate. They arrived just in time to fight off a [[Gulf]] that was attacking the boat [[Cab (human)|Cab]], [[Minerva (human)|Minerva]], and [[Donq]] were using to take [[Copo]] to the hospital on Viscas Island. The hovercraft was then used to get everyone to Viscas Island. The Godmasters took the hovercraft back to Karin Island to pick up [[Shūta Gō]]. There they discovered [[Dado (Masterforce)|Dr. Dado]] who had escaped from Decepticon Captivity. Dr. Dado informed them that the other doctors were being held on [[Atlan Island]].

[[Ginrai (human)|Ginrai]] ordered Shūta to use the hovercraft to take Dr. Dado to Viscas Island to care for Copo. The Godmasters then took the hovercraft to Atlan Island to rescue the doctors, submerging on the way to avoid detection. After the battle, the Godmasters apparently used the hovercraft to rush [[Rhodan|Dr. Rhodan]] to the hospital on Viscas Island, since he is the only one who can help cure Copo. The Godmasters then returned to Autobot base in the hovercraft. {{storylink|Save the Little Girl! The Chōjin Warriors, the Godmasters}}

[[Category:Super-God Masterforce]]
[[Category:Watercraft]]

Astrotrain (G1)/toys

2024-04-06T09:44:38Z

RQ87-D2: /* The Transformers */

{{suite}}

[[File:G1 boxart Astrotrain.jpg|upright=1.66|What's the purpose of possessing Astrotrain?|thumb]]

'''Astrotrain''' can transport all his trainload of toys around!

{{TOCclear}}

==Toys==
===''The Transformers''===
{{anchor|Generation 1}}[[File:G1Astrotrain toy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|And then I transform into a train and a rocket and a Transformer again...]]

<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-d1|'''Astrotrain''' (Triple Changer, [[1985]] / [[1986]])}}</ul>
:*''Takara ID number'': '''48'''
:*''Accessories'': "[[Ionic displacer rifle|Ionic Displacer Rifle]]"
{{toydesigner|[[Kōjin Ōno]] (TakaraTomy)}}

: Released in the second year of the [[The Transformers (toyline)|original US ''Transformers'' toyline]] (first in European and Japanese markets), Astrotrain can transform into either a black-and-purple {{w|JNR Class D51}} steam locomotive or an off-white-and-purple {{w|Space Shuttle orbiter}}. The train mode can roll on wide-ish toy train tracks, but it can’t turn corners very well. Astrotrain was one of the earliest ''Transformers'' toys to feature [[ball joint]]s for his shoulders, a decade before they became a design standard.

:[[File:Astrotraincatalog.jpg|thumb|upright=0.66|left|[[Blitzwing (G1)/toys#The Transformers|Blitzwing]] called. He wants his weapons back.]]

: Takara's 1985 release of Astrotrain had a color scheme based upon the real-life versions of the vehicles he transformed into, with a white-and-black Space Shuttle mode (complete with [[NASA]] decals!) and a near-wholly-black steam locomotive. In 1986, Takara re-released Astrotrain, this time in his US toy colors.

{{anchor|Generation 1}}[[File:G1Astrotrain_japanese_toy.jpg‎|upright=1.15|thumb|]]

: Like [[Perceptor (G1)/toys#The Transformers|several]] [[Thrust (G1)/toys#The Transformers|other]] [[Bluestreak (G1)/toys#The Transformers|toys]] from Generation 1, [[Hasbro]]'s [[catalog]]s<ref name="catalogs">[http://www.botchthecrab.com/gallery.asp?gallery=10 Transformers catalogs] at Botchthecrab.com. ''Generation 1'' Astrotrain's prototypes are depicted in both the 1985 and 1986 US catalogs and in the 1985 UK catalog.</ref><ref name="tf85">[https://imgur.com/a/lOw2Y Toy Fair 1985 catalog] that depicts ''Generation 1'' Astrotrain's prototypes.</ref><ref name="origin">[http://tfsource.com/blog/origin-of-the-species-part-3/ "Origin of the Species, Part 3"] at the TFScource blog, featuring a scan from the 1985 Milton Bradley catalog that also depicts the ''Generation 1'' Astrotrain prototypes.</ref> depict [[prototype]]s that differ from the final product: Not only do the prototypes sport a gray and purple color scheme (which served as the basis for the color scheme used in the cartoon), they also have several notable sculpting and tooling differences compared to the production version; namely, arms that extend on a slide joint, different feet, and a different head sculpt that was also used as the basis for his [[character model]]. In the US and UK catalogs, he was even shown with [[Blitzwing (G1)/toys|Blitzwing]]'s weapons, whereas in the European [[Milton Bradley]] catalog, he sported different decals compared to stickers used for the final toy. The resin hardcopy prototypes didn't actually transform; instead, separate prototypes existed for each mode.<ref name="animeastro">[http://www.tf-1.com/articles/reissue/Animeastro_template.html Original Astrotrain prototype at TF-1.com]</ref> The [[stock photography|stock photos]] of Astrotrain on the toy's [[packaging]], on the other hand, depict the final toy's sculpt in its (mostly) final colors, even though the center of the helmet is painted yellow instead of red. The same near-final prototype was also featured in the 1985 J.C. Penney wish book.<ref name="1985wish">[http://www.x-entertainment.com/articles/0969/ 1985 J.C. Penney wish book] at X-Entertainment.</ref>

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/1985/Decepticon/Astrotrain/astrotrain.htm More information on Astrotrain at TFU.info]''
{{-}}{{anchor|1991Classic}}
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-d1|'''Astrotrain''' (Triple Changer, [[1991]])}}</ul>
:*''Accessories'': "Ionic Displacer Rifle"

: Astrotrain was re-released with his original U.S. color scheme in the [[Classics (Europe)|European/Australian ''Classics'' series]] in 1991. Near as can be told, there are no notable differences between this and the original release.
{{-}}

===''The Transformers Collection''===
*'''Astrotrain''' ([[2004]])
**''ID number'': '''11'''
**''Accessories'': "[[Ionic displacer rifle|Ionic Displacer Rifle]]"

:In 2004, Takara reissued Astrotrain in his original Japanese white and black color scheme as part of their ''[[The Transformers Collection|Transformers Collection]]'' line of [[Generation 1 reissues|reissues]]. The "[[NASA]]" stickers were changed to "ASTR".

::*''[http://www.tf-1.com/articles/reissue/Astrotrain_template.html More information on Transformers Collection Astrotrain at TF-1.com]''
{{-}}

===''Collector's Edition''===
{{anchor|Exclusive}}
[[File:Takara-collectors-edition-astrotrain-proto-colors.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|right|Don't laugh, or he'll become a pain train.]]
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-d1|'''Astrotrain Proto Color Version''' (Triple Changer, 2004)}}</ul>
:*''ID number:'' '''48'''
:*''Accessories'': "Ionic Displacer Rifle"

: Often referred to as "Anime Astrotrain" by collectors, this version sports a color scheme based on the original prototype mentioned above, though the gray plastic is brighter than on the actual prototype, and the hue for the purple parts leans more towards red than blue.

: He was [[exclusive]]ly available from [[e-HOBBY]] and released as a ''[[The Transformers: Collector's Edition|Collector's Edition]]'' companion to ''The Transformers Collection'' reissue (see above). The toys shipped out in January.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2004/Destron/Astrotrain/astrotrain.htm More information on Astrotrain Proto Color Version at TFU.info]''
::*''[http://www.tf-1.com/articles/reissue/Animeastro_template.html More information on Anime Astrotrain (and the original Astrotrain prototype) at TF-1.com]''
{{-}}

===''Commemorative Series''===
[[File:Commemorative Astrotrain 2005 2012.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Something for the variant collectors.]]
*'''Astrotrain/Decepticon Astrotrain''' (Commemorative Series IX, [[2005]]/[[2012]])
**Accessories: "Ionic Displacer Rifle"

:Following the Japanese reissue, Hasbro intended to make Astrotrain (retaining his previously Japanese market-only colors) available in the United States as well as part of their ''[[The Transformers: Generation One Commemorative Series|Commemorative Series]]'' line of reissues in 2004. However, [[Toys"R"Us]] (who had carried the ''Commemorative Series'' figures as exclusives) decided to discontinue the line due to low sales, and even though [[Ricochet (Headmasters)#Commemorative Series|Ricochet]], the other ''Commemorative Series IX'' figure besides Astrotrain, still managed to get released, Astrotrain was not.

:Since considerable quantities of Astrotrain had already been produced, Hasbro decided to make the figure available through their newly-launched [[Hasbro Toy Shop]] website, serving as a test to see whether exclusives were a viable option for the store. In addition, Astrotrain was also released in Australia (where the ''Commemorative Series'' had previously also been exclusive to Toys"R"Us) as a [[Kmart]] exclusive, for a deep discount price. Despite being an exclusive, he could also be found clogging up shelves in smaller, privately owned toy shops.

:In 2012, several ''Commemorative Series'' figures, among them Astrotrain, were re-released in Hasbro's Asian markets, in slightly altered packaging that (in Astrotrain's case, at least) lacked the "Commemorative Series IX" label, saw his name changed to "Decepticon Astrotrain", had the box next to his name that contains the text "Decepticon Triple Changer" reduced in size and "Triple Changer" changed from uppercase to mixed case, updated the Hasbro logo to the then-current version, added a "choking hazard" safety warning label and moved the "Ages 5+" recommendation above the product code number.
{{-}}

===''Classics''===
[[File:ClassicsAstrotrain.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|...and a rocket and a train and a Transformer and man it's hard work!]]
*'''Astrotrain''' (Deluxe Class, [[2006]])
**''Accessories:'' Rifle
{{toydesigner|[[Eric Siebenaler]] (Hasbro), [[Takashi Kunihiro]] (TakaraTomy)|[[Don Figueroa]] (concept artist)}}

:''[[Transformers: Classics|Classics]]'' Astrotrain, like much of the ''Classics'' line, is an extensive update of the original Astrotrain design based heavily upon his cartoon appearances and using modern toy engineering techniques. He still transforms into a spaceship resembling a NASA Space Shuttle, but with two [[kibble|rather obvious]] locomotive front halves on the sides of the rear hull. Instead of a steam locomotive, his secondary [[alternate mode|vehicle mode]] is a {{w|Tsubame (train)|Tsubame}} {{w|800 Series Shinkansen|800}} bullet train. His [[robot mode]] is based heavily upon his Generation 1 cartoon animation model design, and is armed with a large purple laser rifle similar to the original toy's rifle (The side of the rifle has a [[Mini-Con]] shaped port on it, if one chooses to do it). However, purple highlights aside, his deco's color scheme is predominantly based on the original Takara toy.

:A design fluke that was acknowledged on Hasbro's official Transformers website allows Astrotrain to connect to ''[[Transformers: Cybertron (toyline)|Cybertron]]'' Ultra Class [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]] or his redecos, ''Cybertron'' Sky Shadow or [[Transformers (2007 toyline)|movie toyline]] [[Jetstorm (Movie)#Transformers (2007)|Jetstorm]], via his landing gear. (Coincidentally, Jetfire's alternate mode is based on a Ukrainian Antonov An-225 Mriya, which was used to transport the Buran orbiter, the Soviet [[knockoff|counterpart]] of the NASA Space Shuttle, on its back.)

:As with most ''Classics'' toys, he has a heat-sensitive [[rubsign]].

:This mold was also used to make ''[[Transformers: Generations (toyline)|Generations]]'' [[Shouki#Generations|Shouki]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2006/Decepticon/ClassicsAstrotrain/astrotrain.htm More information on ''Classics'' Astrotrain at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===''Henkei! Henkei!''===
[[File:Henkei Astrotrain toy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|''One man on a lonely platform One case sitting by his side Two eyes staring cold and silent 
Shows fear as he turns to hide Ah, ah, we fade to grey!'']]
*'''Astrotrain''' ([[April 24]], [[2008]])
**''ID number:'' '''D-03'''
**''Accessories:'' Rifle

:In 2008, ''Classics'' Astrotrain was released in Japan as part of the ''[[Henkei! Henkei! Transformers (toyline)|Henkei! Henkei! Transformers]]'' line by [[TakaraTomy]]. The figure was extensively redecoed into a dark grey and purple colour scheme based on the character’s appearance in the Generation 1 cartoon. Instead of the Hasbro ''Classics'' release's rubsign, he has two Decepticon sigils tampographed onto his wings. All ''Henkei'' toys feature a somewhat randomly [[Vacuum metallizing|vacuum-metallized]] part somewhere upon them, and Astrotrain is no exception: the trim of his chestplate and engine array are vacuumized purple, with the engines themselves left as unpainted silver chrome.
{{-}}

===''Generations''===
[[File:TF-Specialist-Decepticons-Astrotrain.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|We need to use at least one pic of this mold to give credit to the designers for not just going the lazy route and using the same nose/cockpit section for both altmodes.]]
*'''Specialist: Decepticons''' (Multi-pack, [[March 25]], [[2014]])
**''Accessories:'' Rifle

:This release of Astrotrain looks superficially similar to the ''Henkei'' version, but saturated with metallic paint and with some deco changes, most conspicuous in train mode. It was sold as part of a Hasbro Asia-[[exclusive]] [[giftset]] along with metallic-painted redecoes of [[Galvatron (G1)/toys#Generations|Galvatron]] and [[Octane#Generations|Octane]].
{{-}}

===''Transformers'' (campaign item)===
[[File:AOE-toy Astrotrain.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|]]
*'''Astrotrain ''' (Limited Micron, 2014)
**''Release date'': [[August 8]] 2014

: Astrotrain is a [[redeco]] of ''[[Transformers: Generations (toyline)|Generations]]'' [[Blast Master#Generations|Payload]] cast in clear-purple plastic, transforming from a robot into both a modified {{w|Boeing X-37|X-37B space shuttle}}<ref>[http://www.allspark.com/forums/topic/96686-generations-legends-targetmaster-moulds/?p=2423893 Designer Joe Kyde on "The Allspark" messageboard, 2013/11/10]</ref> and a double-barreled blaster that can be wielded by any larger figure with [[5 mm post|5 mm ports]].

: As a [[campaign item]], this toy was available at Japanese [[Toys"R"Us]] stores starting in August 2014 (and lasting "until supplies run out") with the purchase of 3,000 yen of ''[[Transformers: Age of Extinction (toyline)|Lost Age]]'' product.

: Astrotrain was [[Repurposing|repurposed]] as the ''[[Transformers: Shattered Glass (franchise)|Shattered Glass]]'' incarnation of [[Cybaxx (SG)|Cybaxx]]. The mold was also used to make ''[[Combiner Wars (toyline)|Combiner Wars]]'' [[Boltax (G1)#Combiner Wars|Cybaxx]] and [[Spacewarp#Combiner Wars|Spacewarp]].
{{--}}

===''Platinum Edition''===
{{anchor|Platinum}}
[[File:Platinum-edition-g1-astrotrain.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Astrotrain was late getting to the G2 party.]]
*'''Decepticon Triple Changers''' (Platinum Edition, [[2015]])
**''Accessories'': "Ionic Displacer Rifle"

:Part of a ''[[Transformers: Platinum Edition|Platinum Edition]]'' two-pack with [[Blitzwing (G1)/toys#Platinum|Blitzwing]] released under the ''[[Transformers: Generations (toyline)|Generations]]'' line, this reissue of Astrotrain features an unprecedented orange, white, and blue color scheme. The exact inspiration for this deco is unknown, with the currently prevalent theory being that it's supposedly an homage to ''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1989 (Victory)|Victory]]'' [[Machtackle]]'s colors.

:This set was officially an [[Amazon (website)|Amazon]] exclusive in the United States and Canada. However, it was also stocked by US-based online retailers [[BigBadToyStore]] and TFSource, who supposedly obtained it as an import from Asia. It was available in several of Hasbro's Asian markets (namely Malaysia, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Singapore, and Taiwan; it's currently unknown whether it was exclusive to any particular stores there or not). In the United Kingdom, it was available via A1Toys.

:This toy was [[Repurposing|repurposed]] as [[Star Dasher]] in ''[[Beast Wars: Uprising]]''.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2015/Decepticon/PlatinumAstrotrain/astrotrain.htm More information on ''Platinum Edition'' Astrotrain at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===''Kre-O''===
{{anchor|SDCC2015}}
[[File:KreO-Toy AstrotrainClass85.jpg|thumb|upright=1.67|As close as we'll get to an Action Master Astrotrain, at least officially.]]
*'''Kreon Class of '85''' (Kreon figure set, 2015)
**''Set number'' '''B5152'''
**''Voted'': Designated Driver
**''Accessories'': Long rifle

:''[[Kre-O]]'' Astrotrain is a small brick-built [[Kreon]] figure, using the 2015-style construction with raised hands and the sturdier "peg-in-peg" torso/waist connection (which makes his parts largely incompatible with prior years' Kreons). His coloration is based on the [[#Generation 1|original Astrotrain toy prototype pictured in catalogs]], being mostly gray with a yellow visor, though his chest [[tampograph]]'s linework has the cartoon model's folded-away tailfin-chestplate.

: He was only available as part of the [[San Diego Comic-Con]]-[[exclusive]] "[[Kreon Class of '85]]" 30-Kreon set. This set was also sold online through [[Hasbro Toy Shop]] after the show.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2015/Decepticon/SDCCKre-OAstrotrain/astrotrain.htm More information on Class of '85 Astrotrain at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===''Titans Return''===
{{anchor|TitansReturn}}
[[File:TF-Generations-Titans-Return-Voyager-Astrotrain.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|''And all this science I don't understand It's just my job five days a week
 A rocket man, a rocket man...'']]
*'''Darkmoon & Astrotrain''' (Voyager Class, [[2016]])
**''Accessories:'' 2 guns, [[Darkmoon]] Titan Master
{{toydesigner|[[John Warden]] (Hasbro)}}

:A [[retool]] of ''[[Titans Return (toyline)|Titans Return]]'' [[Sentinel Prime (G1)#Generations|Sentinel Prime]], Astrotrain can transform from robot to shuttle to armored train and back. He comes with [[Darkmoon]], a [[Titan Master]] figure that can transform from a robot into his head (but any [[Titan Master]]-class figure is compatible). Like all ''Titans Return'' Voyager-class figures, he has spring-loaded parts designed to "bulk up" his head; in his case, a pair of pylons that pop up on either side of his head, replicating the shoulder "landing gear" on his original Generation 1 character model. Like Sentinel, the train engine ends ''can'' be used as feet, but they sit at an awkward angle that makes it hard for Astrotrain to stand upright. His two guns can combine to form one larger weapon which Darkmoon (or any Titan Master) can operate in robot mode, The largest of the two can be piloted by any Titan Master figure in both modes. His guns also attach to form his Vehicle mode weapons. In Australia and some Asian countries, Astrotrain and his wavemate Alpha Trion were prominent shelfwarmers.

:Unfortunately, due to being used for transformation, the port for the collector display stand on his two-piece rear waist tends to be misaligned, and the hole is not shallow enough to fully secure its connection.

:The Hasbro Asia exclusive giveaway sticker sheet can be used to enhance the figure's details.<ref>https://news.tfw2005.com/2016/09/23/hasbro-asia-titans-return-stickers-wave-2-325179</ref>

:This mold also served as the model for the [[Omega Sentinel (Energon)|Omega Sentinel]] in the [[Primus Vanguard]].
{{-}}

===''Legends''===
[[File:TF-Legends-LG40-Astrotrain.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|And a fancy rocket, and a fancy battle train, and back to fancy robot. I'm super fancy!]]
*'''Astrotrain''' ([[January 28]], [[2017]])
**''ID number'': '''LG40'''
**''Accessories'': 2 guns, Headmaster

:''[[Transformers Legends (franchise)|Legends]]'' Astrotrain is a redeco of the [[#Titans Return|''Titans Return'' mold]] in a cartoon-based deco, with the front shuttle and the train sections possessing paint operations to evoke the cockpit windows.

:The other side of his instructions features [[Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 40|the 40th ''Legends'' bonus edition manga]].
{{TRInfinitusMold}}
{{-}}

===''War for Cybertron: Siege''===
{{anchor|Siege}}
[[File:WFC-Siege-Leader-Astrotrain.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Runaway train, never coming back.]]
*'''Astrotrain''' (Leader Class, [[2019]])
**''Hasbro ID number'': '''WFC-S51'''
**''TakaraTomy ID number'': '''SG-47'''
**''TakaraTomy release date'': [[March 28]], [[2020]]
**''Hidden message code'': '''IONICDISPLACER'''
**''Accessories'': 2 "JF-50 Ionic Displacer Blasters," "JF-30 Astro Blaster," "W-15 Destabilizer Cannon," "W-40 Turbo-Core Derailer" (combine to form the "Omni-Force Orbital Cannon"), tender/launchpad

:''[[War for Cybertron: Siege|Siege]]'' Astrotrain is a heavily-cartoon-inspired figure that transforms from robot to either a space shuttle or steam locomotive (not a modern locomotive like every toy of his since the original). Despite being released in the ''Siege'' line, his alternate modes are clearly styled after Earth vehicles. This, together with his [[A.I.R. Lock System]] compatibility, makes it seem a lot like he was designed with ''Earthrise'' in mind, and indeed his toy later received a straight rerelease in that line. He features the trademark ''Siege'' "battle damage" paint applications on his legs, as well as multiple hardpoints all over himself and his weapons to accommodate "Fire Blasts" from the [[Battle Master]]s assortment, which can be used to simulate blaster fire or explosions.

:As with other Leader Class figures in the line, Astrotrain himself is roughly Voyager-sized, with his accessories accounting for the rest of the pricepoint. In addition to five [[C.O.M.B.A.T. System]] weapons (including one based on his original toy's blaster), which can be combined to form the "Omni-Force Orbital Cannon", he includes a tender large enough to store all five weapons inside. The tender can be converted into a small launch pad base (designed as a treaded crawler vehicle with two cabs) for his shuttle mode. The launch pad features a pair of A.I.R. Lock System connectors, but unfortunately doesn't seem able to unfold flat as designed. It can also turn into a weapons rack, which can be mounted on Astrotrain's back in robot mode, with a pair of foot pads for extra stability since the backpack makes Astrotrain ''incredibly'' back-heavy.

:The toy's coloration, with mostly-grey wings rather than the purple on his final model; is seemingly based on either a [[:File:AstrotrainTakeover.jpg|pre-final character model]] that was used in the G1 cartoon episode "[[Triple Takeover]]" or [[Miscolorings based on the Generation 1 cartoon|a fan coloring]] of his pre-final model sheet that also features a cartoon screen captured-head that became popular online.

:Astrotrain was redecoed (with a new head) to ''[[Transformers: Legacy|Velocitron Speedia 500 Collection]]'' [[Galaxy Shuttle#Legacy|Victory Universe Galaxy Shuttle]].
{{-}}

===''Vintage G1''===
[[File:VintageG1Astrotrain.jpeg|thumb|upright=1.66|This toy outlasted the actual space shuttle.]]
*'''Astrotrain''' (Walmart exclusive reissue, 2019)
*''Accessory:'' Gun

:Astrotrain was reissued in the ''[[Vintage|Vintage G1]]'' series, announced for Spring 2020 but unexpectedly hitting store shelves in December 2019. This was the first Astrotrain reissue to feature the color scheme of the American G1 toy—though the purple plastic is noticeably darker on this version.

:Like all ''Vintage G1'' releases, Astrotrain is a [[Walmart]] [[exclusive]] in the United States and Canada.
{{--}}

===''War for Cybertron: Earthrise''===
[[File:WFC-E12 Astrotrain Packaging Stock.jpg|thumb|upright=0.9]]
*'''Astrotrain''' (Leader Class, [[2020]])
**''ID number'': '''WFC-E12
**''Accessories'': 2 "JF-50 Ionic Displacer Blasters," "JF-30 Astro Blaster," "W-15 Destabilizer Cannon," "W-40 Turbo-Core Derailer" (combine to form the "Omni-Force Orbital Cannon"), tender/launchpad, decoder

:Astrotrain's [[A.I.R. Lock System]]-compatible base connectors saw him get a [[package refresh]] in the ''[[War for Cybertron: Earthrise|Earthrise]]'' line with no changes save for his box being updated. Even the flawed hinge in the coal tender was retained without any changes, preventing it from properly assuming launchpad mode.

:Like all Earthrise toys, the inside of the back of Astrotrain's package includes an exclusive clip-and-save piece of a larger star map. Also in the box is a thin red piece of transparent plastic with which to read the star map. Astrotrain's piece of the map contains the labeled location of the planet "[[Caminus (planet)|CAMINUS]]".
{{--}}

==Merchandise==
===Decoy===
*'''Astrotrain''' (Decoy, 1986)
**''Decoy number:'' '''38'''

:[[Decoy]] Astrotrain is a small, purple rubber figure made available with certain toys in the [[The Transformers (toyline)|original toyline]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/1986/Decepticon/Decoys/Astrotrain/astrotrain.htm More information on Decoy Astrotrain at TFU.info]''

===Boss Original Figure===
*'''Astrotrain''' (Boss Original Figure, 2008)

:Released in a line of PVC figures available exclusively with containers of [[Boss Coffee]], this version of Astrotrain is rendered in grey and violet.

===''Transformers Trading Card Game''===
[[File:W4CaptainAstrotrain.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Starring Steve Carrell. Coming soon to ''Netflix''.]]
*'''Captain Astrotrain, Space Force-Transport''' (2019)
**'''Wave 4: War for Cybertron: Siege II'''
**''Rarity: '''''CT'''
**''Card Number: '''''T01/T52'''
**''Stars: ''12

:Captain Astrotrain, Space Force-Transport is one of 52 character cards released as part of Wave 4 of the [[Transformers Trading Card Game]], War for Cybertron: Siege II. In order to depict the [[Triple Changer]] nature of the character, Captain Astrotrain, Space Force-Transport is a folding card, with both Alt Modes depicted when the card is folded in half, and Bot Mode depicted when the card is unfolded.

:The card's Bot Mode artwork is reused from the ''[[War for Cybertron: Siege|Siege]]'' Astrotrain toy, while both Alt Modes receive original artwork, with lines by [[Dan Khanna]] and colors by [[Marcus Reyno]].

:Captain Astrotrain, Space Force-Transport is notable as being the first character in the game with the <nowiki>''Train''</nowiki> trait. Due to the game's cancellation, he remains the only train in the game.
{{-}}

===''ReAction''===
*'''Astrotrain''' (2020)
**''Accessories'': Blaster

:Released in the first wave of [[Super7]]'s line of multi-property 3.75-inch "retro" action figures, ''[[ReAction]]'' Astrotrain is a non-converting 3 3/4-inch action figure based on his appearance in the original cartoon, with 5 points of articulation (swivel neck, shoulders, hips) and holes in his feet for use with some variety of stand. Unlike the first-series figures, both of his hands are open to hold his weapon accessory.

: As with all releases in the ''ReAction'' toyline, Astrotrain comes packaged on a small cardback that emulates the nostalgic packaging style of [[Kenner]]'s ''[[Star Wars (franchise)|Star Wars]]'' action figures from the late 1970s to early '80s.

{{-}}

===Eaglemoss===
* '''Transformers Gen-1 Chess Set''' (<s>2021</s>)
:In the planned [[Chess#Eaglemoss|Transformers Chess Set]] by [[Eaglemoss]], a relatively large and very well detailed statue of Astrotrain was slated to be one of the Rook pieces on the Decepticon side.

:A Kickstarter campaign to raise the necessary funds for this project was launched, but failed to meet its goal by September 24, 2021 and the whole thing was canceled.
{{canceledtoy}}
{{-}}

===''Transformers Character Card''===
[[File:Transformers Character Card Broadside and Astrotrain.jpg|upright=1|thumb]]
*'''Broadside & Astrotrain Set''' ([[February 6]], [[2023]])
**''ID number:'' '''39 & 40'''

:Released as part of the sixth wave of the [[e-HOBBY]] exclusive ''[[Transformers Character Card]]'' series, this pair of holographic trading cards depict super-deformed art of [[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]] and Astrotrain along with [[bio|character profiles]] and [[Tech Spec|tech specs]].
::*''[[Source:Transformers Character Card#40|Translation of Astrotrain's Transformers Character Card]]''

{{--}}

==Notes==
*Given the timing, the Generation 1 Astrotrain was probably an asset carried over from the [[Diaclone#Posthumous Diaclone|scrapped 1985 range]] of the [[pre-Transformer]] ''[[Diaclone]]'' toyline. Evidence also suggests fellow ''Transformers'' character [[Octane#Notes|Octane]] shares this origin.

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Age of Extinction Mini-Cons]]
[[Category:Classics Decepticons]]
[[Category:Decoys]]
[[Category:E-HOBBY exclusives]]
[[Category:Generation 1 toy Decepticons]]
[[Category:Headmasters]]
[[Category:Henkei! Henkei! Decepticons]]
[[Category:Japanese promotion exclusives]]
[[Category:Kre-O Decepticons]]
[[Category:Kreons]]
[[Category:Legends Decepticons]]
[[Category:Platinum Edition]]
[[Category:SDCC exclusives]]
[[Category:Titans Return Decepticons]]
[[Category:Toys"R"Us Japan exclusives]]
[[Category:Transformers Character Card]]
[[Category:Triple Changers]]
[[Category:War for Cybertron: Siege Decepticons]]
[[Category:War for Cybertron: Earthrise Decepticons]]

The Ultimate Doom, Part 1

2024-04-01T09:36:24Z

RQ87-D2: /* Rhino DVD release */

{{episode
|series=G1toon
|ep=11
|series2=SRLFtoon
|ep2=66
|prev2=The Autobot Run
|next2=The Ultimate Doom, Part 2
|series3=''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (cartoon)|Transformers: Generation 2]]''
|ep3=41
|prev3=Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 2
|next3=The Ultimate Doom, Part 2
|image=Tud1 megatron cybertron.jpg
|caption="A ticker-tape parade using streams of volcanic ash. How ironic!"
|title="The Ultimate Doom, Part 1"
|season=1
|season ep=11
|production code=#700-08
|airdate=[[November 3]], 1984
|story by=[[Dick Robbins]], [[Bryce Malek]], [[Douglas Booth]] and [[Larry Strauss]]
|teleplay by=[[Larry Strauss]]
|animation studio=[[Toei Animation|Toei]]
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
|video=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W3eHpAV5gVA
|videosite=YouTube
}}
'''Megatron brings Cybertron into Earth orbit to harvest the energy from the destruction caused by Cybertron's gravity.'''

==Synopsis==
[[File:Sparkplugkidnapped.jpg|left|upright=1.1|thumb|"Kidnapping humans will be simplicity itself, thanks to my new, Transformers-sized crane game."]]
[[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]], [[Thundercracker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Thundercracker]] and [[Skywarp (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Skywarp]] attack a solar power station off [[India]]'s [[Malabar Coast]]. [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]], [[Wheeljack (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Wheeljack]], [[Jazz (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Jazz]] and [[Sunstreaker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sunstreaker]] arrive in time to intercept them. Watching this battle remotely are [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] and the evil human scientist [[Doctor Arkeville]]. Megatron orders [[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] to begin phase two of Operation Guinea Pig, which involves setting [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] and [[Ravage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ravage]] loose inside [[Ark (G1)|Autobot headquarters]]. With the [[Autobot]]s distracted by Rumble's rumbling, [[Laserbeak (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Laserbeak]] flies in, nabs [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]] and flies out.

Back in India, the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]] suddenly take flight and retreat. Prime smells a rat, then Sunstreaker tells him of the attack on their headquarters.

[[File:TFG1TUD1.jpg|right|upright=1.1|thumb|"I love the Power Glove. It's so bad."]]
After bringing Sparkplug to [[Decepticon]] headquarters, Doctor Arkeville fits him with a mind-control device called a [[hypno-chip]] which brings him into the Decepticons' control. As a means of demonstrating the new technology, Sparkplug is made to attack a full-sized replica of Optimus Prime. Megatron intends to use this technology to create an army of human slaves. With the successful completion of the first part of his plan, Megatron communicates with [[Shockwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Shockwave]] to confirm that the new [[space bridge]] is ready.

The Autobots attack the Decepticon undersea base to rescue Sparkplug. Optimus Prime leads a direct attack from above while [[Cliffjumper (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cliffjumper]], [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] and [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] tunnel under the ocean floor. The mission is successful, and the Autobots return him to their base. After undergoing repairs, the Autobots and Spike notice that Sparkplug is acting oddly, but before they can learn why, the Decepticons launch a surprise attack. [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike]] realizes that Sparkplug has sabotaged the Autobots' weapons and [[Teletraan I]], which let the Decepticons in undetected.

When Spike confronts his father, Sparkplug appeals to Spike to join the Decepticons. Spike refuses, and Sparkplug tells his son that when they next meet, they will be enemies. In a desperate effort to salvage the situation, Spike sets off the [[fire-retardant foam]]. This clogs the Decepticons' weapons, and Megatron orders a retreat. Sparkplug willingly goes with them.

[[File:Spikesparkandark.jpg|left|upright=1.1|thumb|Snow Miser tunes in to his favorite show, ''The Witwickys''.]]
At the space bridge site, Megatron reveals that he intends to bring [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] into Earth orbit using the bridge. The gravity of Cybertron will cause natural disasters, and the Decepticons plan to harvest the vaguely-defined "energy" this will somehow create, and transport it to Cybertron. Arkeville isn't too keen on this idea, but Megatron says it's a new problem for the evil scientist to solve using his genius intellect.

Using the [[Sky Spy]], the Autobots see the giant space bridge and [[roll out]] to investigate. When they attack the bridge site, Megatron releases a group of human slaves to act as shields. The ploy works, and things get even more complicated when the humans attack the Autobots with sticks and stones.

Spike stops Sparkplug from attacking Bumblebee, and for a moment it appears that Sparkplug is back to normal. But Arkeville recomputes his signal, and Sparkplug is again under Decepticon control. He rushes to the first space bridge pylon and activates it. Thundercracker activates the second.

Optimus Prime chases Megatron up to the third pylon and wrestles him away from the button. Megatron orders Prime to turn on the pylon himself, or else he will be responsible for catapulting Cybertron into oblivion. Unwilling to sacrifice his home planet, Optimus Prime activates the space bridge, bringing Cybertron into Earth's orbit, but wonders if he is dooming Earth in the process.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
{{collist|2|
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] (5)
*[[Jazz (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Jazz]] (6)
*[[Sunstreaker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sunstreaker]] (7)
*[[Wheeljack (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Wheeljack]] (8)
*[[Ratchet (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ratchet]] (13)
*[[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]] (14)
*[[Sideswipe (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sideswipe]] (15)
*[[Ironhide (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ironhide]] (17)
*[[Prowl (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Prowl]] (20)
*[[Hound (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hound]] (21)
*[[Cliffjumper (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cliffjumper]] (23)
*[[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] (24)
*[[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] (25)
*[[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] (26)
*[[Gears (G1)|Gears]] (27)
*[[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (28)
*[[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]] (29)
}}
|c2=
*[[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] (2)
*[[Thundercracker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Thundercracker]] (3)
*[[Skywarp (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Skywarp]] (4)
*[[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (9)
*[[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] (11)
*[[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (12)
*[[Ravage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ravage]] (18)
*[[Laserbeak (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Laserbeak]] (19)
*[[Shockwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Shockwave]] (22)
|c3=
*[[Indian maharaja]] (1)
*[[Doctor Arkeville]] (10)
*[[Sparkplug Witwicky]] (16)
*[[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike Witwicky]] (20)
}}

==Quotes==
'''Skywarp''': I say Megatron's plan was brilliant. 
'''Starscream''': And I say the diversionary attack on the solar plant was a waste of energy. 
'''Skywarp''': You waste more energy with your mouth!
:—More heart-warming Decepticon camaraderie.

"I've got the plan, if all of you've got the cast-iron [[manifold]]s for it!" 
"We have!"
:—'''Prowl''' and '''Optimus Prime'''

"Into the ocean, let's be daring. The last one in is a rusty herring."
:—'''Jazz''', turning into [[Wheelie (G1)|a poet]].

'''Megatron''': [[Fire-retardant foam]]! Our circuitry's been shorted out. 
'''Thundercracker''': My weapon! 
'''Skywarp''': Can't we just bash 'em to pieces? 
'''Megatron''': If we stay, this foam will permanently damage our circuitry. The Autobots are through anyway. RETREAT!
:—The Decepticons become ever more farcical and ridiculous.

"As the Earthlings say: Fat chance, fat-head!"
:—'''Optimus Prime''' has been spending too much time with Spike.

"Have I saved Cybertron... only to destroy the Earth?"
:—'''Optimus Prime''' angsts over his decision to bring Cybertron into Earth's orbit.

==Notes==
===Production information===
* First draft script: 11th July 1984
* Script revised by [[Ron Friedman]]: 18th July 1984
* Final script: 27th July 1984
* Dialogue recording: ([[Dan Gilvezan]] not present for main session, [[Wally Burr]] voiced Bumblebee for guide track)
* Returned to the US for telecine: 8th November 1984

===Continuity notes===
[[File:UltimateDoom1 Optimus on hydrofoils.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
*This episode is one of several that gets a narrative opening from [[Victor Caroli]].
[[File:TUD1 Brawn drilling.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|With that drill... take us to the heavens!]]
[[File:TUD1 Cliffjumper depth gauge.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|And now, on with the countdown.]]
*Gadgets and powers:
**The Autobots make their first use of [[hydrofoil]]s in this episode, newly installed by Wheeljack. More than most, these gadgets would show up in [[Dinobot Island, Part 2|many]] [[Atlantis, Arise!|future]] [[City of Steel (episode)|episodes]].
**Ironhide retracts his hand and out comes... a toilet plunger lookin' thing. He uses it to locate the center of Rumble's seismic disturbance, with the results displaying on his chest windows (not unlike his sonadar sensors).
**Sideswipe was getting ready to fire a flare from his hand weapon. He was interrupted by Ravage. Flares are mentioned in Sideswipe's [[bio]].
**Optimus Prime's chest windows light up, indicating an attack on Autobot Headquarters.
**Brawn has a vehicle mode tunneling drill. It'll show up again in "[[The Immobilizer]]".
**Cliffjumper has a depth gauge that emerges from his vehicle-mode hood.
**Sunstreaker fires a missile from his wrist at Megatron.
**Thundercracker fires a rocket from his forearm in the same way he did in "[[Divide and Conquer]]".
**Cliffjumper fires his [[glass gas]] like a regular laser beam from his hand gun.
**Ratchet uses the same retractable wrist-welder he had in "[[Transport to Oblivion (episode)|Transport to Oblivion]]".
**This time, it's the blue button on Megatron's stomach that acts as his radio transmitter.
*Once again, evidence that Cybertron is actually outside the Milky Way galaxy: Optimus describes the apex of the space bridge as being "beyond this galaxy".
*For those who wonder how humans can breathe on Cybertron, this episode offers some relief: the final scenes clearly show Cybertron sucking up a chunk of Earth's atmosphere. Of course, this doesn't cover Chip Chase's earlier visit to the planet in "[[Divide and Conquer]]".
*Also, it may just be perspective, but when we see Earth and Cybertron in the same shot, Cybertron looks almost comedically tiny - arguably a justification for it having buildings which are visible from orbit. That just raises questions about how it manages to siphon a visible chunk of the atmosphere, though.

===Real-world references===
*The Seekers attack a solar power plant off {{w|Malabar Coast}}, which is located in southern {{w|India}}.
*As [[The Transformers: The Movie|always]], when there's a {{w|American Top 40|countdown}} of any kind, it's given to Cliffjumper, thanks to being voiced by [[Casey Kasem]].
*Is Windcharger's line "This must be the place!" a reference to {{w|This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody)|the Talking Heads song}} that came out just two years prior? Or would you have to be naive to think that?
*Brawn plays a reverse lifeguard: "Everybody into the pool!"
*''[[Star Wars (franchise)|Star Wars]]'' sound effects:
**The sound of an igniting [[lightsaber]] is repurposed for Cliffjumper's glass gas beam.
**As Spike flees the battle in Autobot Headquarters, the background laser effects include the sound of the [[Death Star]]'s turbolasers firing at the [[Rebel Alliance|Rebel]] fighters.
**The fritzed-out Autobots get the sound of [[Darth Vader]] and [[Obi-Wan Kenobi|Ben Kenobi]]'s lightsabers locking and sparking in their fight aboard the Death Star. The sound is recycled when Spike shorts out Teletraan I a second later.
===Technical or animation glitches===
*The Maharaja says that his solar panels are collecting three hundred energy units per second. Typical government inflation! The screen says it's ''thirty'' units per second.
[[File:UltimateDoom1 Indian maharaja.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
*For an Indian, that Maharaja ''sure'' does look like a Caucasian.
*Coloring errors:
**Skywarp has Thundercracker's colors as he blasts his way into the palace.
**As the Autobots enter the water, Sunstreaker is [[Spin-Out (G1)|colored red]] instead of yellow.
**As Rumble transforms, Soundwave's open chest cavity is colored light blue, as if it were closed. His open chest panel is colored dark blue, as if it weren't there!
**Starscream's face is light gray instead of medium gray as he and the other Seekers ride the elevator into Decepticon HQ.
**Starscream's air intake is light gray instead of red as he and the other jets wait for Megatron.
**As he dives back out of Decepticon HQ, Cliffjumper is colored as Bumblebee.
**When Dr. Arkeville insists that Sparkplug has "no choice" during the attack on the Autobot base, the background is Autobot orange instead of Decepticon purple. The same coloring error occurs during the scene at the energy pylons, when Arkeville mentions having to "recompute the control codes."
**While transforming after arriving at the Space Bridge, Optimus Prime has the gray stripe in his truck mode, and the stripe changes to red as he finishes the transformation. Usually that is done the other way; with no gray stripe in truck mode, but a gray stripe in his robot mode.
*Prime has a sloped windscreen as he and the other Autobots drive through the jungle (repeating an error from "[[Divide and Conquer]]".)
*Megatron's [[fusion cannon]] is drawn pretty badly repeatedly throughout this episode. The front barrel is often drawn at less than half the size it should be. (See the picture further up this page for an example). Apparently size isn't important after all.
*Improbable viewpoints:
**Megatron gets a stationary view of the Autobots charging into the Maharaja's palace. Did Starscream and company spend their time there setting up a camera for him?
**He also gets a view of Soundwave hanging around outside Autobot Headquarters. (Clearly, the Autobots have [[Megatron's Master Plan, Part 1|no security]] at this point.)
**As Sparkplug works to sabotage the Autobots, Dr. Arkeville gets footage from ''inside'' Autobot Headquarters! We can ''maybe'' let this one slide and say that Sparkplug set up a video feed or something.
**Then Arkeville gets a view that's clearly coming from Teletraan I itself! (Actually, that would explain both viewpoints.)
**The [[Sky Spy]] gets what is essentially a ground-level view of the Decepticon energy pylons.
**Megatron doesn't seem to be leaning over a console or anything as the Autobots arrive at the space bridge, but Arkeville still gets a full view of him from Decepticon Headquarters.
**Arkeville then gets a view from right next to Sparkplug as he talks with Spike during the battle.
*As Soundwave salutes, most of his body shifts around a bit, but his chestplate remains completely still.
*Soundwave has a purple Autobot symbol as he ejects Laserbeak. Once his cassette door is open, its inside face is colored solid dark blue, instead of the light blue that it should be.
*Most of Laserbeak's caws and cries are not electronically modulated, though his usual electronic trill does show up a few times.
*Sideswipe's leg clips through Spike as he joins them in watching Rumble.
*Sideswipe's gun vanishes as he bashes Ravage aside.
*Laserbeak grabs Sparkplug from a metal-paneled interior space, yet immediately flies right out of the volcano's cone. As Spike looks up after Laserbeak, he's suddenly standing against a rock background.
*After the Autobots in India realize they have been duped, Sunstreaker says "We were set up!", but in Prowl's voice. A similar goof happened in "[[Roll for It]]".
*Either a line was cut, or [[Frank Welker]] misparsed one of Megatron's lines; he says "It had ''better'' function" in regards to the hypno-chip... when nobody had previously been discussing the chips at all.
*The outer edges of Bumblebee's face are supposed to be white, but they're colored yellow as he consoles Spike.
*The animation of Shockwave talking to Megatron is recycled from "[[Transport to Oblivion (episode)|Transport to Oblivion]]", complete with its strange brightly-lit background and awkward shadow, and Shockwave's incomplete arms. The establishing shot of this conversation has Megatron appearing to "hover" in front of the screen and gently descend as Shockwave speaks. This is weird.
*Prowl drives into the air at the cliff edge before transforming.
*Brawn's front grill just phases right through his giant [[alternate mode|vehicle mode]] drill as it folds back up.
*Appearing/disappearing Autobots:
**Prime's strike team includes Prowl, Hound, Jazz, Sunstreaker, Wheeljack, and Bumblebee. During the underwater battle, Gears appears for a single shot.
**As Bumblebee says his "biggest space bridge ever" line, the shot changes, and he's been replaced by a misshapen Hound.
*As Optimus Prime flies to the Decepticon Space bridge, just after Megatron points his arm cannon at him, Optimus ducks to the side, and his face guard vanishes for a split second.
*Whatever damage Cliffjumper did to the inside of Decepticon Headquarters has disappeared by the time Autobots take their exit.
*After Starscream, soaking wet with seawater, emerges from the hole made by Cliffjumper's glass gas, there is a moment where his animation freezes... including the dripping water, which is suspended in mid-air.
*In a pan across the interior of Autobot Headquarters, there are two Prowls.
*One of them is drawn working on Jazz. Since when is Prowl a mechanic?
*In the same shot, Ratchet's mouth is missing as he works on Sunstreaker.
*A layering goof (or cheap shortcut) has Sparkplug's arms not actually reaching into the open panel on Wheeljack's back where he's supposed to be working.
*As Ratchet protests Sparkplug's attempt to work on Optimus, it's suddenly Prowl who he is repairing, rather than Sunstreaker (and despite Prowl being up and about a few shots ago).
*After Prime falls, suddenly it's Jazz laying on the table by Ratchet, with Bluestreak standing over him.
*Sparkplug's wrench looks different between shots, losing its round bolt wrench end in some shots.
*When the Decepticons are showered with foam at the Ark, the shot cuts from Thundercracker to Skywarp by simply changing the colors on the character.
*When Starscream flies to the space bridge, his alt mode is noticeably misshapen. His transformation is amazingly off, as well.
*As Optimus takes aim at Megatron for the second time ("It's not over yet, Megatron!"), his faceplate disappears for a second or two.
*After Sparkplug has his moment of hesitation, Spike's mouth moves, but no words come out.
*When Sparkplug climbs up onto the first energy pylon, the sound of his footsteps is that of a clanking, giant robot, not a human wearing boots.
*The third pylon's energy beam isn't quite aligned with the pylon itself.

===Continuity errors===
*Megatron's "diversion" only draws four Autobots away from their headquarters, with at least that many still present, yet he seems to regard it as a smashing success.
*Rumble, Ravage and Laserbeak are just able to saunter into Autobot Headquarters with no alarms or security systems going off; that's the by-product of a deleted scene from the episode's script, in which it is explained that Teletraan I is offline while Ratchet performs some standard repair work on it.
*In order to test the effectiveness of the hypno-chip, Megatron produces a model of Optimus Prime. Because Starscream is bone-headed enough to think Megatron just randomly let Prime into the base, Megatron directly says it's a model... right in front of Sparkplug. No one considers that Sparkplug might have more common sense than Starscream, or even that he could ''fake'' being mind-controlled because of what he's just been allowed to overhear.
*That must be one light Optimus Prime model; Sparkplug is able to grab it by the ankle and toss it across the room.
*The entire process of rescuing Sparkplug is fraught with improbabilities:
**Brawn's team should have been swept away by cascading torrents of water as soon as a big enough hole was opened in their tunnel.
**Decepticon Headquarters should also have been inundated as soon as the floor dropped out beneath Starscream. To hold the water at bay, the atmospheric pressure in the base would have to be equal to the water pressure at the bottom of the ocean — a pressure that Sparkplug and Arkeville most assuredly could not survive.
**Whatever force keeps water from gushing up through the big hole in the floor doesn't stop water from gushing in when Brawn punches a big hole in the ''wall''.
**"Hold your breath, Sparkplug!" says Windcharger, as they prepare to swim out of Decepticon HQ. Yes, that will save you from the freezing temperatures and crushing pressures at the bottom of the ocean!
**The water gushing into the base is nowhere to be seen as Starscream re-enters the base.
[[File:UltimateDoom1 Foamy Megatron.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|"Mr. Bubbles' Happy Time Fun Bath Soap?! RETREAT!!!"]]
*The Decepticons enter Autobot Headquarters through a huge hole in the wall, yet there has been no explosion or anything.
*The Decepticons can be apparently easily damaged by fire-retardant foam (Cybertronian fire-retardant foam at that!), yet the Autobots are fine.
*Spike trips over nothing as he flees the battle. The next shot make it seem like he was supposed to have tripped over his dad's wrench... but in order to have tripped Spike, the wrench must be either monumentally heavy or bolted to the floor; nonetheless, in the next frame Spike picks the wrench up with no sign of strain—just as you would expect anyone could.
*Every action has an equal and opposite ''re''action; the surface of Cybertron should have been just as devastated by ''Earth''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s gravity as the Earth's surface was by ''Cybertron''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s gravity.
*Why did Megatron slowly climb the rocks to reach the third pylon? Did he forget he could fly?

===Rhino DVD release===
*The energy readout screen is missing its glowing effects in the DVD version. In addition, it is misspelled as “ENERCY”.
*Arkeville’s chip disappears in the Rhino DVD version as soon as he puts it in Sparkplug’s ear.
*Megatron’s mouth freezes in several scenes in the DVD version.
*Wheeljack’s glowing effects are missing when he says, “Maybe, but we’ll need a plan.”
*When Shockwave says, “Everything is in readiness, Megatron.”, Megatron slowly floats down to the floor in the DVD version. In the original broadcast, he remains still. The background effects behind Shockwave are also different between the two versions.
*When Starscream says "Optimus Prime? Prepare to attack!", he and Skywarp have traded colors on the Rhino DVD Release, while in the broadcast, Starscream and Skywarp didn't.
*Starscream falling into the water is missing the splash effect on the DVD. When he crawls out, the DVD version is also missing the water all over him.
*When Dr. Arkeville yells at his slave to only fix the damaged Autobots, his mouth isn’t moving in the DVD version.
*Spike’s hair is darker in the DVD version when he drops a wrench into Teletraan 1’s circuitry. The same shot also has a puff of smoke in the DVD version that is missing in the final broadcast version.

===Trivia===
*This episode is subtitled "Brainwash" in scripts and other official materials.
*Like "[[More than Meets the Eye (mini-series)|More than Meets the Eye]]", the mid-80s [[Family Home Entertainment]] VHS release of "The Ultimate Doom" was granted the {{w|Film Advisory Board}} Award of Excellence, proudly displayed on the video box cover. However, this particular "award" does not reflect the ''quality'' of any work submitted, but rather that the work is "family-friendly". Cheeky, once again!
*This was one of the six episodes featured on the ''[[Revenge of the Fallen (video games)|Revenge of the Fallen]]'' [[Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (Xbox 360/PS3/PC)|console game]].
*The idea of bringing Cybertron to Earth via space bridge and enslaving humans was used as part of the plot for ''[[Transformers: Dark of the Moon (film)|Transformers: Dark of the Moon]]'' (which was, despite being a [[Michael Bay]] movie, oddly devoid of ''any'' sort of environmental damage that would be caused by such an event).

===Foreign localization===
'''French'''
:*''Title (European French):'' "'''Le dernier jugement, partie 1'''" ("The last judgement, part 1")
:*''Title (Canadian French):'' "'''L'ultime destin - Partie 1'''" ("The ultimate doom - Part 1")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
::*About the European French dub:
:::*Like in ''[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]'', Soundwave does not want to pronounce Laserbeak's name. When ejecting the three cassettes, he says "Rumble, mutation !" then "Ravage, mutation !" and finally "Réveille-toi ! À nous de jouer !" ("Wake up! It's our turn!").
:::*Brawn calls Cliffjumper "Cliff".

'''Italian'''
:*''Title (dub 1):'' '''Lo scienziato pazzo''' ("The Mad Scientist")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
::*Optimus's line: «Autobots! Transform and move in!» (right before Megatron shows him the human slaves) was not dubbed.

:*''Title (dub 2):'' '''Destino finale - Prima parte''' ("Final Destiny - First Part")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Hametsu no Hi PART I'''" (破滅の日 PART I, "Day of Destruction PART I")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[November 7]], [[1986]]
::*Due to [[Jetfire (G1)|Skyfire]]'s status as a [[Bandai]] toy in Japan, the Japanese broadcast of "The Ultimate Doom" three-parter was delayed until the end of the series when the legal issues were cleared up (as were most episodes featuring Skyfire). All three "Ultimate Doom" episodes were aired on the same day in Japan as a special extra length series finale.
::* This episode, along with the second and third parts, marked the end of ''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' in Japan. Starting with the Japanese broadcast of [[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 1]], It would be rebranded as ''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers 2010''.

'''Mandarin'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Miè Dǐng zhī Zāi (Shàng)'''" (灭顶之灾(上), "Catastrophe of Extinction, Part I")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Brazilian Portuguese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''A Destruição Final, Parte 1: Lavagem Cerebral'''" ("The Final Destruction, Part 1: Brainwash")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Serbian'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Sudnji dan, prvi deo - Ispiranje mozga'''" (Судњи дан, први део - Испирање мозга, "Judgment Day, Part One - Brainwash")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Latin Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''La Destrucción Máxima, Parte I'''" ("The Maximum Destruction, Part I")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
[[File:TransformersVillainsUltimateDoomParts1-3(1984).jpg|right|upright=0.85|thumb|"I'm such a villain, I even stole this DVD cover."]]
;VHS
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 1985 — ''The Transformers'' — Volume 2: "The Ultimate Doom" ([[Family Home Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of Canada.png|20px|Canada]] 1996 — ''The Transformers'' — The Ultimate Doom ([[Malofilm]]) 
[[File:Flag of Canada.png|20px|Canada]] 1996 — ''Transformers'' — L'Ultime Piège (Malofilm) — French audio only. 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2001 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Villains: The Ultimate Doom ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]])
;{{w|LaserDisc}}
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1995 — ''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' — Megatron Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1999 — ''The Transformers'' — Decepticon Edition ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2001 — ''The Transformers'' — DVD Box 2 (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2001 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Villains: The Ultimate Doom ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2002 — ''Transformers'' — Original Series: Volume One ([[Maverick Entertainment|Sony Wonder]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2002 — ''Transformers'' — Complete Original Series: Deluxe Edition (Sony Wonder) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2002 — ''The Original Transformers'' — First Season Collector's Edition (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2002 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Volume Three (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2003 — ''Transformers'' — Collection 1: Series 1 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Season 1 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[File:Flag of France.png|20px|France]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Volume 2 ([[Déclic Images]]) — European French audio only. 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Classic Transformers'' — Series One: Part Two (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of Italy.png|20px|Italy]] 2008 — ''Transformers'' — Volume 02: Stagione Uno Parte Seconda ([[Medianetwork Communication]]) — English and Italian audio. 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2009 — ''Transformers'' — Season One (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete First Season: 25th Anniversary Edition ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2011 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Original Series (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete First Season: 30th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2014 — ''Transformers'' — The Classic Animated Series (Metrodome)

==External links==
*[https://drive.google.com/open?id=1SpaaKbcxwHDeZNmC4g9ZJemJ6HT5_vZp Full episode script, finalised on 27th July 1984]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Ultimate Doom, Part 1}}
[[Category:The Transformers episodes]]
[[Category:Generation 2 episodes]]

Fight or Flee (episode)

2020-06-05T15:59:23Z

RQ87-D2: /* Trivia */

{{disambig2|the Generation 1 episode|the ''Punishment'' issue|Fight or Flee (issue)}}
{{episode|
|series=G1toon
|ep=86
|series2=2010
|ep2=15
|prev2=Carnage in C-Minor
|next2=Ghost in the Machine (G1)
|series3=''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (cartoon)|The Transformers: Generation 2]]''
|ep3=24
|prev3=The Ultimate Weapon
|next3=Transport to Oblivion
|image=Fight or Flee Paradrons enslaved.JPG
|caption="Man, I hate menial labor. Don't they have machines that can do this?"
|title="Fight or Flee"
|production code=700-106
|airdate=[[October 15]], 1986
|written by=[[Tony Cinciripini]] [[Larry Leahy]]
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|animation studio=[[Toei Animation|Toei]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''The Decepticons conquer Paradron, a world inhabited by pacifistic Autobots.'''

==Synopsis==
[[File:Fightorflee Cyclonus Scourge Superion.jpg|left|upright=1.1|thumb|He looks smaller in person.]]
In space, [[Cyclonus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Scourge]] are pursuing [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]]. Following him into an asteroid field, the two Decepticons are surprised to see the other [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]]. In the firefight, Scourge is damaged, so Cyclonus argues that they charge them. However, the Aerialbots form [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] and do further damage to the Decepticons. Cyclonus spots a vortex and decides to take refuge in it. Once they've passed through, they find a planet that looks similar to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] during the [[Golden Age]]. Further analysis is discontinued, however, as they crash hard.

Nursed back to health by the natives, the Decepticons discover that the planet, called [[Paradron]], is inhabited by Autobots. Native [[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]] greets the two Decepticons, explaining their pacifistic ways, but Cyclonus and Scourge get a little too much [[energon]]... of which the planet has an unlimited supply. Contacting [[Chaar]], they inform [[Galvatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Galvatron]] of the discovery. Sandstorm calls an assembly, warning the populace that Cyclonus and Scourge are dangerous, but the others ignore his warnings. Soon enough, the Decepticons arrive and declare the planet a part of the [[Decepticon Empire]]. Naturally, the Paradrons don't agree with that, one claiming outright that the planet is a [[democracy]]. Galvatron shoots the dissenter.

[[File:Fightorflee Sandstorm spacecraft.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|"Gotta get to Facebook! My crops aren't going to harvest themselves!"]]
Taken to a prison, Sandstorm manages to escape, but [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] and [[Razorclaw (G1)|Razorclaw]] follow him. They knock him off a bridge, but Sandstorm flies away and manages to lose the two Decepticons. Heading for a long-abandoned spaceship, Sandstorm manages to power it up and take off, narrowly avoiding [[Divebomb (G1)|Divebomb]].

Making contact with the Autobots, Sandstorm explains that his ancestors left Cybertron during the [[Cybertronian Civil Wars|fourth great war]] to escape the violence. The Autobots, knowing that they can't let the Decepticons have Paradron's energon, head for the planet. By now, the Decepticons have dug in and are using the Paradrons as slave labor. Detecting an incoming Autobot ship, the Decepticons use their [[molecular cannon]] to fire right through one of Paradron's moons, utterly obliterating the ship and the moon. Believing the Autobots destroyed, they carry on with business - but the ship is a decoy, and the Autobots launch their actual invasion from the other moon. [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ultra Magnus]] takes a team to secure the energon, while [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Rodimus Prime]] takes [[Springer (G1)|Springer]], Sandstorm, and [[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]] to rescue the prisoners.

[[File:Fightorflee Rodimus explosion.jpg|left|upright=1.1|thumb|Dreamwave... The New Wave of Comics]]
Breaking through the prison defenses, the Autobots present the Paradrons with weapons, but the latter are reluctant to fight. Sandstorm claims that their forefathers would fight as well. The Autobot leader gives them a simpler choice: fight or flee. Reluctantly, the Paradrons take up arms.

[[File:Fightorflee Ultramagnus Sandstorm bomb.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|"Nice scenery." "Yeah, let's waste it! I hate nice things!"]]
Unfortunately, the Decepticons' control over the planet is too firm. Unwilling to let them have Paradron, Rodimus orders Ultra Magnus to destroy the energon core, which will destroy the planet. Sandstorm objects at first, but agrees to the plan when he learns that the Paradrons can live on Cybertron. Using escape pods, the Paradrons flee the planet, while Magnus and Sandstorm head for the core. Planting a time bomb, the two Autobots hightail it out of there. Galvatron sneers at their cowardice, then remembers that Magnus is anything but a coward. Realizing that something is wrong, Galvatron orders the Decepticons to abandon the planet.

From space, the Autobots watch the planet explode. Sandstorm remarks that even in death, it's still beautiful. Rodimus callously says that Cybertron is better anyway.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (3)
*[[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]] (4)
*[[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (5)
*[[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (6)
*[[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (7)
*[[Superion (G1)|Superion]] (8)
*[[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]] (9)
*[[Paradron Medic]] (10)
*[[Playback|Communication Autobot]] (11)
*[[Blurr (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blurr]] (20)
*[[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Rodimus Prime]] (21)
*[[Springer (G1)|Springer]] (22)
*[[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]] (23)
*[[Ultra Magnus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ultra Magnus]] (24)
*[[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (25)
*[[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]] (27)
|c2=
*[[Cyclonus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cyclonus]] (1)
*[[Scourge (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Scourge]] (2)
*[[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (12)
*[[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] (13)
*[[Galvatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Galvatron]] (14)
*[[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (15)
*[[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] (16)
*[[Razorclaw (G1)|Razorclaw]] (17)
*[[Divebomb (G1)|Divebomb]] (18)
*[[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] (19)
*[[Headstrong (G1)|Headstrong]] (26)
*[[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] (28)
*[[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]] (29)
*[[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]] (30)
*[[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] (31)
*[[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (32)
*[[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (33)
*[[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (34)
}}

==Quotes==
'''Scourge:''' "Are they gonna attack us, or blow us away?" 
'''Sandstorm:''' "Welcome to Paradron, friends!" 
'''Scourge:''' "You don't think this is what happens when you get deactivated, do you?" 
'''Cyclonus:''' "Who knows, Scourge, who knows..." 
:- '''Scourge''' and '''Cyclonus''' are very confused.

"Hey! I'm stuck up here!" 
"Everybody's got to be somewhere."
:—A '''Paradronian''' and '''Cyclonus''', after Scourge kicks the former into a wall.

[[File:FightOrFlee Galvatron orders.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1]]
"Before a society can move forward, everyone must agree on the rules. Now kneel!"
:—Come, sons of Paradron, kneel before '''Galvatron'''!

[[File:FightorFlee future autobots.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1]]
"I-is there something wrong with his timing program?"
:—'''Sandstorm''', asking the question we're all thinking about Blurr.

"What do we have here?" 
"I believe it is an Autobot invasion party." 
"I KNOW what it is." 
"Didn't you just ask me what we had here?!" 
"It was just a figure of speech! TURN THE MOLECULAR CANNON ON THEM!!"
:—'''Galvatron''''s high-falutin' fancy talk is just too much for '''Bruticus''' to grasp.

"I've never seen anything this beautiful in the entire galaxy.... All right, give me the bomb."
:—'''Ultra Magnus''' with one of the greatest lines in the multiverse.

"Run, you Autobot cowards! Hhh...but he isn't a coward.... Something's wrong here!"
:—'''Galvatron''' mocks Ultra Magnus, then realizes they're in deep [[Slag (slang)|slag]].

"It's as beautiful in death as it was in life." 
"Well, no need to get all mushy. Cybertron's a better place anyway — not so...perfect!"
:—A solemn '''Sandstorm''' witnessing the destruction of his home while '''Rodimus Prime''' callously mocks him for it. Jerk.

==Notes==
===Production information===
* First draft script: 11th July 1986
* Script finalised by [[Flint Dille]]: 11th July 1986
* Dialogue recording: 31st July 1986

===Continuity notes===
[[File:ParadronMedicCartoon1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|Helloooooo, Nurse!]]
*The [[Paradron Medic]]s are basically a recycled version of [[Arcee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Arcee]]'s character model.
*Gadgets and powers:
**Sandstorm unveils a hidden wrist cutter.
**[[Divebomb (G1)|Divebomb]] has the same hidden camera gimmick in his [[beast mode]]'s forehead as [[Laserbeak (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Laserbeak]].
*Paradron would appear in [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]]'s [[Transformers: Micromasters|''Micromasters'' comic]] and be the location of [[Golden Disk (Paradron)|an important plot device]].

===Real-world references===
*''[[Star Wars (franchise)|Star Wars]]'' sound effects - all from Divebomb's one scene:
**[[TIE Fighter]] roar as he first appears, closing in on Sandstorm...
**[[Death Star]] superlaser as he climbs to attack...
**''[[Millennium Falcon]]'' engine roar as he loops around...
**[[X-wing Fighter|X-Wing]] whine as he dives toward the ship...
**and [[Darth Vader]] TIE Fighter roar as he closes in.

===Animation and technical errors===
*At the beginning of the episode, Cyclonus's gun sounds like Galvatron's cannon. This occurs throughout the scene, though in some shots it has the typical Decepticon laser sound.
*One shot of Air Raid standing on an asteroid shows him coloured as Superion.
*The other four Aerialbots get a transformation sound as they emerge from behind the asteroid, but they aren't actually transforming.
*[[Surprise Party|Once again]], Cyclonus's face looks different. Here, he has no "beard" and his eyebrows are white (except in certain shots, such as when he and Scourge spot the vortex, where he has the purple beard again).
*Coloring errors:
**Silverbolt has Superion's color scheme (red arms, dark gray head) just before he transforms into Superion's torso.
**When Scourge delivers his line "The same goes for me..." as Cyclonus finishes drinking from the energon fountain, Cyclonus has Sandstorm's color scheme. Sandstorm himself is also colored entirely orange during this moment.
**The optic visor of one of the muttering Paradronians flashes from cream to blue and back as he steps forward.
**"Too bad we didn't get to bump him around more" - Brawl's mouthplate changes from the correct deep orange to the same yellow as his eyeband. Razorclaw's visor is colored the darker yellow of his helmet instead of the correct lighter yellow.
**When Razorclaw and Brawl dive into the gorge, Razorclaw's black bits (arms, legs) are light gray.
**When they land a few shots later, Razorclaw still has light gray arms and legs; Brawl has white hands and lots of light gray in places it shouldn't be.
**Sandstorm's helmet is light gray instead of black as he gets his escape ship operational.
***And again as he starts to tell Paradron's history.
**"Make the slaves work faster!" - Blitzwing's helmet is purple instead of yellow.
**Rodimus's gun is light gray instead of black as he takes out the security camera.
**When Rodimus opens the door to the prison, Sky Lynx's upper portion is colored like this lower portion.
**When Rodimus tells Sandstorm to give the Paradrons the weapons, his spoiler is all-yellow. (It should be orange in the middle.)
**Scrapper and Long Haul are colored in Sweep-esque shades of blue as Galvatron gives the order to charge.
**When Magnus, Wheelie, and Blurr are ambushed, a shot panning across a group of Decepticons gives us Long Haul in [[Sentinel Prime (G1)|a bizarre blue-and-orange color scheme]], previously seen in "[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4]]", which persists throughout this scene. Also present are Soundwave with a white cannon, no mouthplate and two fuzzy dots for eyes, Scrapper in a Predacon color scheme, and Galvatron with a white cannon.
[[File:ParadronGenerics.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1]]
[[File:FightorFlee Paradron communicator.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1]]
*The Paradronians are a peculiar lot. Often they're portrayed as extremely generic robots across the board, with optic visors, mouthplates, and utterly generic bodies. And then once in a while, a highly detailed guy like the [[Playback|communication Autobot]] will turn up in their midst.
**Likewise, their colors change around a lot. In some shots they're all in an off-white color scheme, while in other shots of the same groups, they're more colorful - most notable as an all-cream group aboard an escape ship changes to multiple colors in the following shot.
**The Paradronians' Autobot logos are drawn/colored inconsistently throughout the episode. Some are missing areas of the symbol, others are colored only halfway, and others are drawn in rather poorly (especially during the assembly). In most group shots, they're missing entirely (only to show up when we get a close-up).
*As Cyclonus draws his weapon and notes that the Paradronians are not armed, the Decepticon brand usually seen on his chest is missing; meanwhile, Scourge's head seems to have sunk into his shoulders.
*When Cyclonus and Scourge contact Chaar, [[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] turns around and speaks - in [[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]]'s voice! He even uses Shrapnel's unique repetition of dialogue, dialogue.
*When Cyclonus and Scourge plot against the Paradronians during Sandstorm's assembly, [[Scale|Scourge is drawn way shorter than Cyclonus.]]
*Scourge is drawn in the head-sticking-up version of his hovercraft mode as he transforms in the auditorium.
*Scourge returns to [[robot mode]] without any transformation sound.
*The Decepticons shown landing on the stage with Galvatron all appear to be generic. (Their color schemes bear some resemblance to [[Krok (G1)|Krok]], [[Sinnertwin (G1)|Sinnertwin]], [[Horri-Bull]], [[Submarauder (G1)|Submarauder]], [[Roadgrabber]], and [[Cloudburst]], though almost none of those characters had yet been created!)
*When the Decepticons land on Paradron, Soundwave is missing all his cassette player buttons.
*Galvatron's chin is darker than the rest of his face in this episode.
*A generic asks "What about Sandstorm?" His faceplate is woobering both before and after he speaks.
*Sandstorm is shown to have escaped through a barred window that's much, much smaller than he is.
[[File:FightorFlee RazorclawBrawl.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1]]
*As Razorclaw and Brawl chase Sandstorm, one shot of Brawl shows a starry night sky, but the rest show a blue, Earth-like sky.
*Divebomb never actually fires on Sandstorm; his eyes flash once, and then in the next shot we see some missiles flying at the launch site. No visual of him firing; no firing sound effects.
*Divebomb's eagle mode is consistently drawn with his robot legs not folded up correctly, leaving them trailing behind him. As he goes back into robot mode, the transformation sound is cut off at the end.
*When Bruticus says, "I believe it is an Autobot invasion party," Galvatron mouths the line simultaneously. Bruticus's mouthplate is off-center, revealing the same red as his optics beneath it, and it flashes out a couple of times as he speaks.
*As Rodimus addresses the Autobots on Paradron's moon, a whole host of goofs can be spotted:
**The late [[Ironhide (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ironhide]] and [[Ratchet (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ratchet]] are in the crowd. Ratchet's headcrest is white instead of gray.
**Hot Spot is two shades of gray with a helmet in two shades of blue. He should be almost entirely light blue.
**Streetwise(?) is colored like Red Alert.
**Groove's head is light blue instead of black, and his body appears to be orange.
**Sunstreaker's shoulders and back are in the crowd, but not his head; he's got some light blue that shouldn't be there.
**Springer, or something like him, is colored orange instead of green.
*When Rodimus gives the ultimatum for the Paradronians to "Fight...or flee!", and the slaves kneel to pick up weapons off of the floor... the weapons aren't there! They appear in the slaves' hands as they take them up - making it appear as if they're plucking weapons from thin air.
*Also, when Rodimus gives the order, his left shoulder is missing its white detailing.
*The mis-colored Long Haul fires a rocket at a stand labeled, "NEWS PAPEP."
*When Rodimus gets the transmission from Ultra Magnus, his head crest is yellow, then lined incorrectly, then ''missing'' all lines in subsequent shots.
*When Wheelie finds the door in the floor, the lines around Magnus's eyes are too thick (like he's wearing mascara!).
*Sandstorm's size relative to the other Autobots varies drastically: When interrogated, he looks huge; when descending the steps to the core chamber, he's half the size of Ultra Magnus; when handing Magnus the bomb, they're roughly the same size.
*When Sandstorm and Magnus duck from the missile, the top of Magnus's back is red instead of (the now-established) grey.
*Galvatron fires on Magnus and Sandstorm with no sound effect. The Kid Rhino version fixes this by not having him fire at all, but in return, the shot pans down in a way that looks like the camera was simply moved down a stationary animation cel.
*During his "but he isn't a coward" line, Galvatron's chin is back to being the same color as the rest of his face.
*While Rodimus counts down to Paradron's destruction, Sandstorm and Ultra Magnus get transformation sound effects as they leap down into the shot. Did they drive all the way to the moon?
*As Rodimus counts down the final seconds of the bomb, his head crest is missing its lines.
*Galvatron has a Predacon color scheme as he takes off from the collapsing tower.
*Paradron starts to explode - then the shot changes, and the planet is gone! The explosion is still there, but there's no trace of the planet's globe.
*As the Autobots watch the explosion, Magnus's Autobot logo is colored solid blue.

===Continuity errors===
[[File:FightOrFlee Molecular Cannon.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|"I will not be deprived of this fun! Even if it means being in two places at once!"]]
*Although this episode gives Sandstorm's origin, he first appeared in "[[Starscream's Ghost]]". [[Starscream's Brigade|Gee, that's ''never'' happened before.]] [[To sell toys|Wonder why]]?
*Bruticus's role in this episode is utterly bizarre; it is tempting to assume that Cyclonus was supposed to be scripted in his place:
**He's shown hanging out with Galvatron in a control center, acting as Galvatron's right hand man.
**He's depicted as only slightly taller than Galvatron.
**He is noticeably eloquent, speaking in full, normal sentences, in his otherwise normal voice.
**His components are seen separately from him throughout - most notably, we see him in the control room, then see Brawl (Bruticus's leg) firing the molecular cannon, then immediately cut back to Bruticus in the control room.
*[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 5|Despite being banished by Galvatron earlier]], [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]] can be seen among Galvatron's troops when he orders them to make the slaves work faster.
*Flying Autobots:
**The Autobots burst out of the moon and fly down to Paradron's surface, each trailing rocket exhaust.
*Sandstorm claims his ancestors left during the fourth great war. According to "[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4]]", the [[Great War (G1)|current war]] is the ''Third'' Cybertronian War. The terminology does leave some leeway, though.
*Ultra Magnus gives a five-minute countdown after setting the bomb. Not the usual ''astro''-minutes, just minutes.

===Trivia===
[[File:Fight-or-flee-springer-magnus-rodimus-sandstorm.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|Well, no need to get all GEEWUNny. Rodimus Prime's a better leader, anyway. Not so... perfect!]]
*At one point, this episode went by the preliminary title of "Fight or Die". As originally scripted, the episode featured an additional plot line that involved Galvatron forcing a Paradronian scientist to build huge [[planetary engine]]s ("ion thrusters", per the script) on the planet's surface, in order to transform it into a mobile battle fortress.<ref>[http://groups.google.com/group/alt.toys.transformers/browse_frm/thread/5c6b78d4b5dc1d27/ Notes on "Fight or Flee" script at alt.toys.transformers]</ref>
*Some interesting generics appear for a split second during Sandstorm's story: Blitzwing colored like Fireflight, Ramjet colored as Air Raid, along and an all-black Dirge and Thrust.
*Unlike the [[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (episode)|two]] [[The Dweller in the Depths|episodes]] that surround it, this episode uses none of the new background music tracks that were introduced to the series beginning with "[[Nightmare Planet]]". As this episode also depicts the formal introduction of Sandstorm, who is otherwise first seen in "Starscream's Ghost", ostensibly produced 11 episodes prior, it is ''possible'' that this episode suffered production delays and was subsequently assigned a different production number (a not unheard of occurrence in television production). As yet, however, no production documentation has surfaced to confirm this.
*Rodimus Prime destroys an entire planet rather than let the Decepticons have it, and isn't too kind to Sandstorm as he mourns its loss. And people wonder why so many prefer [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]]!

===Foreign localization===
'''German'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Wenn du nicht kämpfst, wirst du sterben!'''" (''If you don't fight, you're going to die!'')
:*''Title (Generation 2 dub):'' '''Eine vollkommene Welt''' (''A perfect World'')
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Italian'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Il paradiso perduto'''" (First dub, "Paradise Lost"), "'''Combattere o fuggire'''" (Second dub, "Fight or Flee")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' 戦いか死か!? (''Tatakai ka Shi ka!?'', "Fight or Death!?")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[March 6]], [[1987]]

'''Mandarin'''
:*''Title: ''Jué Sǐ Yī Zhàn'' (决死一战, "Fight or Death")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;VHS
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1989 — ''Transformers'' — The Big Broadcast of 2006 / Fight or Flee ([[Tempo Video]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1989 — ''Transformers'' — Fight or Flee / Call of the Primitives (Tempo Video) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1990 — The Action Adventure Collection IV (Tempo Video) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1991 — ''Transformers'' — Starscream's Ghost / Fight or Flee (Tempo Video)
;{{w|LaserDisc}}
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1999 — ''The Transformers: 2010'' ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2001 — ''The Transformers: 2010'' — DVD Box (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2004 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 3 Part 2 & Season 4 ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Season 3 and Season 4 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Collection 5: Series 3.2 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2009 — ''Transformers'' — Season's Three & Four {{sic}} (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2010 — ''The Transformers'' — Seasons Three & Four: 25th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2011 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Original Series (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''The Transformers'' — Seasons Three & Four: 30th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2014 — ''Transformers'' — The Classic Animated Series (Metrodome)

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[http://cybertronchronicle.freewebspace.com/cartoon-dossier/season-3/synopses/700-106.html Episode Dossier at The Cybertron Chronicle]
*[https://drive.google.com/open?id=1oWp-XGPd1Ogf4zZJ4B0BMeFRZsGbSGcz Full episode script submitted 11th July 1986]

[[Category:The Transformers episodes]]
[[Category:Generation 2 episodes]]

Sea Change

2020-05-06T18:26:31Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|image=SeaChange Alana riding Seaspray.jpg
|caption=Taking inter-species relationships to the [[Transformer romance#Transformer - organic|next level]].
|series=G1toon
|ep=49
|series2=SRLFtoon
|ep2=44
|prev2=The Key to Vector Sigma, Part 2
|next2=Hoist Goes Hollywood (episode)
|series3=''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (cartoon)|The Transformers: Generation 2]]''
|ep3=35
|prev3=Blaster Blues
|next3=The Search for Alpha Trion
|title="Sea Change"
|written by=[[Douglas Booth]]
|production code=700-48
|airdate=[[November 20]], 1985
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|animation studio=[[Toei Animation|Toei]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}

'''Seaspray turns into a merman with robot feet and falls in love.'''

... '''wait, what?!'''

==Synopsis==
[[Seaspray (G1)|Seaspray]] is pulling a water skiing [[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]] around a lake, but Bumblebee wipes out while trying to jump a ramp. 'Bee decides to call it a day, as the first star comes out. Seaspray makes a wish on the star, but keeps it a secret, otherwise it won't come true.

Meanwhile, on [[Tlalak|another planet]], the [[Tlalakan]]s are all wishing for one thing... freedom from [[Deceptitran]], who has enslaved them. He has developed a unique method of gathering [[energon]] by directly harvesting it from the Tlalakans themselves. However, the Tlalakans have finally had enough, and revolt. As his droids appear incapable of stopping them, Deceptitran sends out a distress signal.

[[File:SeaChange Autobots in Cosmos.jpg|left|upright=1.1|thumb|"Let's check out this 'Goatse' link Cliffjumper sent us."]]

Back on [[Earth]], Seaspray is still wishing on stars, when he suddenly receives a signal. Heading back to the [[Ark (G1)|base]], the two [[Autobot]]s show it to [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] and [[Perceptor (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Perceptor]]. Perceptor can't identify any specifics, but he is sure that it's a distress signal. Optimus sends the three in [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]], but the [[Prime (rank)|Autobot leader]] himself is too large to come. The Autobots depart, as Optimus wishes them luck. Before they reach the planet, Perceptor discovers that the distress signal is similar to ones intercepted during the [[Third Cybertron War]]. Seaspray suddenly realizes that they're responding to a distress signal intended for the [[Decepticon]]s. Before they can abort, Deceptitran detects them, and orders the droids to open fire. As the Autobots emerge from the crash, the droids swoop in to finish the job, when the Tlalakans suddenly attack. Seaspray manages to save one, who calls herself [[Alana]]... and Seaspray appears a little shy.

Meanwhile, [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] enters the planet's atmosphere and lands in the city. [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] has come with [[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]], [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]], and [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] to assist. After Deceptitran briefs Megatron on the situation, the Decepticons go Autobot hunting.

[[File:SeaChange Seaspray Bumblebee at pool.jpg|right|upright=1.1|thumb|She's sitting in the pool because they've stolen her dress to make dusters!]]

Meanwhile, the Autobots are being taken to the [[Well of Transformation]], which the Tlalakans describe as the one secret that they have kept from Deceptitran. Unfortunately, a pair of droids have followed them in. Bumblebee downs one, while Seaspray throws another into the Well...where it dissolves. Alana explains that the Well dissolves the body, leaving only the lifeforce, which the Tlalakans use to change into whatever they want. Alana warns them not to get in, fearing that they will die just like the droid. After turning into a mermaid, Alana bids them farewell, blowing Seaspray a [[kiss]]. Bumblebee has to drag a babbling Seaspray out of the cave.

Heading to the river, the Autobots are discovered by [[Laserbeak (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Laserbeak]], and the rest of the Decepticons swoop in. Seaspray [[Transformation|transforms]] and takes the Autobots down the river—and right over the waterfall. Perceptor, Seaspray, and Cosmos are rescued by the Tlalakans, while Bumblebee is captured. The Autobots are taken to the Tlalakans underwater city, the only place that the Decepticons have not conquered. They meet [[Tlaloc]], their king, who loans them some warriors to rescue Bumblebee and storm the city. However, Cosmos and Perceptor are too damaged. It's just Seaspray and his men. Er, mermen. After the mermen and Alana change back into humans, some of the mermen set bombs under the city, heralding the start of the attack. The Decepticons go to attack the Tlalakans, while Bumblebee activates a homing beam. He signals Seaspray, who rescues Bumblebee and damages Deceptitran. The Tlalakans withdraw, taking Bumblebee with them, while Seaspray and Alana go to the well. Unfortunately, Laserbeak follows Bumblebee underwater...

In the control room, Deceptitran is having a panic attack, causing Megatron to simply turn him off (why he doesn't do that with [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] is beyond anyone's guess). Megatron receives a signal from Laserbeak, and promises to join their little friend in a short while...

[[File:SeaChange Mermaid Seaspray and Alana.jpg|left|upright=1.1|thumb|Robo-Conan & Robo-Sonya]]

In the forest, the Tlalakans are being chased by the droids, but manage to reach the Well of Transformation. Seaspray asks if Alana really believes he would die if he went in, but Alana points out that they're both machines. Feeling dejected, Seaspray resolves to go into the Well, as Alana cries out in horror. Believing him dead, Alana muses that she ''did'' love Seaspray...only for Seaspray to emerge as a blond muscle man, but with robot feet (and for some reason, still a gargling voice). The two jump into the Well and change into merpeople. They discover that the city is under attack by the Decepticons, but Seaspray doesn't have any weapons systems as a merman. Spotting them, Megatron orders Rumble to follow. Rumble begins firing, only for his body to also be affected by the Well. Alana begins to tell Rumble to think of a big tree, or become lost. Rumble survives...as a tree. Seaspray resumes his old robot mode, while Alana takes one of her own, as a measure for fighting Decepticons, but she likes her color (guess what [[Elita One (G1)|it]] [[Arcee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|is]]). On the surface, Seaspray and Alana head to the above water city (with Alana transforming into a gondola) and attack Deceptitran's forces.

[[File:SeaChange Alana Deceptitran.jpg|right|upright=1.1|thumb|Boy, you are too fat to be my ''botfriend''!]]

Underwater, the Decepticons are overwhelming the Autobots and Tlalakans, when Megatron receives a mayday from Deceptitran. Megatron is willing to leave Deceptitran to die, but the energon must be protected. Heading back for the city, the Decepticons spot Seaspray, and follow him into the energon warehouse. However, the droids fire on the Decepticons, as Alana has reprogrammed Decepitran to serve her. The explosion causes a massive tremor, destroys the city and causes Rumble, back in the caves, to fall into the Well of Transformation, allowing him to change back. Megatron orders Astrotrain to transform and take them off the planet.

As the Tlalakans celebrate, Alana has retaken her human form, but tells Seaspray that they won't let it ruin their relationship. As the two sail off into the sunset, Bumblebee notices the first star, and asks if anyone wants to make a wish. Perceptor asks why, and Bee says that it's merely a [[human]] superstition he heard...

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Seaspray (G1)|Seaspray]] (1)
* [[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]] (2)
* [[Perceptor (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Perceptor]] (7)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] (8)
* [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] (9)
|c2=
* [[Deceptitran]] (6)
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (10)
* [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (11)
* [[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] (12)
* [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] (13)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Laserbeak]] (14)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (15)
|h3=[[Tlalakan]]s|c3=
* [[Chac]] (3)
* [[Alana]] (4)
* [[Mok]] (5)
* [[Tlaloc]] (16)
* [[Rarto]] (17)
}}

==Quotes==
"Hey, look! The first star of the evening. Whaddaya say we make a wish?" 
"I know what ''my'' wish is... no more water skiing!"
:—'''Seaspray''' and '''Bumblebee'''

"Oh no...my paint job's... ruined."
:—borrowing a page from [[Carnage in C-Minor|Broadside]] and [[B.O.T. (episode)|Gears']] playbook, '''Cosmos''' sweats the small stuff before collapsing

"She kissed me! She kissed me!" 
"Ah, dream on, bubble-brain..."
:—'''Seaspray''' and '''Bumblebee''' on Seaspray's love life

"Maybe that is all I am, a bunch of transistors and bolts, but I don't believe it! My heart may look like an energon pump but that doesn't mean it can't feel."
:—'''Seaspray'''

"Transform, you sponge, and get us out of here!"
:—'''Megatron''' destroys Astrotrain's self-esteem with what appears to be a sea-related insult. Mercy.

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
[[File:SeaChange Deceptitran.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
* More interplanetary dealings by Megatron! He's apparently built himself some kind of little empire off-screen, given the content of this episode and "[[The Gambler]]".
* Gadgets and powers:
** Seaspray picks up Deceptitran's distress call. He has to muck with some component inside his chest to do it.
** Cosmos is explicitly shown changing size when he transforms inside Autobot Headquarters; he converts to ship mode, then suddenly enlarges enough to accommodate his three passengers.
* Cosmos flies straight out of the volcano's cone, a rarely-used but apparently viable means of leaving Autobot Headquarters.
*Bumblebee's original [[bio]] notes that he's good at underwater operations, and of course Seaspray is made for such work. Still, the implication of both bios is that the ''other'' Autobots ''aren't'' real good underwater... but here, as with every other underwater episode, all of them are equally at home. In fact, Bumblebee is portrayed [[Humanization|coughing and sputtering]] after going over the falls.
* As with the [[Atlantis, Arise!|Sub-Atlanticans]], the Tlalakans can talk underwater.
* Seaspray's faceplate can apparently change colour when smitten. Powerglide does not show the same reaction when put in the same situation in "[[The Girl Who Loved Powerglide]]".
* Exactly why Seaspray and Rumble are able to survive and even use the [[Well of Transformation]] isn't really explored within the episode. The concept of the [[Spark]] wasn't well established at this point in the franchise, but is an excellent explanation as to why Deceptitran's drones are destroyed while full-fledged Transformers are not.
* Rumble is frigging stupid.

===Real-world references===
[[File:SeaChange Bumblebee wipeout.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|It went almost as well as Dinobot football.]]
[[File:SeaChange Tlalakans escaping.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
* The term "sea change" simply means [http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sea%20change a significant transformation,] though, {{w|Ariel's Song|when Shakespeare coined it}}, he was talking about the substance of a body literally being changed by the sea (such as bone being replaced with coral).
* This episode marks the Autobots' third foray into Earth sports, as Bumblebee gives water skiing a try (see also "[[The Master Builders (episode)|The Master Builders]]" and "[[Atlantis, Arise!]]") The Stunticons will later have a go at it in "[[Cosmic Rust (episode)|Cosmic Rust]]".
* The vaguely Meso-American aesthetic of the natives and the word "Tlalakan" itself suggests that the planet is meant to evoke {{w|Tlalocan}}, the "heaven" in Aztec cosmology reserved for those who died by drowning or had an otherwise water-related death. That's, uh, actually pretty morbid!
* One of the Tlalakan natives is even named {{w|Tlaloc}}, after the Aztec god of rain and water who ruled Tlalocan. Hopefully, he didn't demand child sacrifices like the real one...
*Conversely, another of the natives is named Chac, which is very similar to {{w|Chaac}}, who was a Mayan god of rain.
* ''[[Star Wars (franchise)|Star Wars]]'' sound effects:
** [[Lightsaber]]s clashing and slashing equipment as the drones whip the workers.
** Diving [[X-wing Fighter]]s as Cosmos first approaches the city, and again when Astrotrain makes the same approach.
** ''[[Millennium Falcon]]'' engine roar as Laserbeak takes off to pursue Seaspray.
** [[TIE Fighter]] roar as Laserbeak flies into Astrotrain.

===Animation and technical errors===
* As he's water skiing, Bumblebee is supposed to ski up to the ramp and then over it, but instead he's floating a few feet above the water before he even gets to it. Then a layering error has him flying past the ramp (in front of it, looking tiny) instead of going over it. Then part of his feet and skis disappear after he clears the ramp.
*Ventriliquist bots:
** "Because that is my programming!" - Deceptitran's mouth doesn't move as he laughs after delivering this line.
** Prime's mouthplate doesn't move as he restates Perceptor's analysis.
** Perceptor groans in pain twice after the crash... but the second time, it's the more visibly damaged Cosmos who's on-screen.
** Alana has already moved underwater when she says "I'l see you there".
** The shot of the Autobots going over the waterfall is repeated before and after the commercial break. The first time, the Autobots are crying out as they fall; the second time, they're silent.
** Seaspray orders Bumblebee to go with the Tlalakans, but one of the Tlalakans is shown mouthing his words.
** "Hey, what's going on?!" - tree-Rumble's mouth doesn't move as he speaks this line.
** Tree-Rumble's cough (as he falls in the water) is provided by Astrotrain's voice actor.
* Coloring errors:
** When the guards dump Chac, Alana's legs are colored green, as if she's wearing pants. (Heavens forefend!)
**While analyzing the distress signal, Perceptor's helmet is red.
** "We came as soon as we got your request for help" - two bits of Megatron's Decepticon symbol aren't colored in.
** Seaspray's back is yellow instead of white as Laserbeak flies overhead.
** One of Soundwave's hands is white as he captures Bumblebee.
** As the firing Decepticons advance on the undersea city, Rumble has Frenzy's color scheme.
** Megatron's fusion cannon is white instead of dark gray as he flies out of the city to attack the rebels.
** "They must not escape!" - Deceptitran's mouth is the same gray as his face, where it is darker gray in other scenes. The same error happens as he responds to Cosmos's arrival over the city.
** When Deceptitran radios Megatron to tell him the energon supplies are in jeopardy, Soundwave's cheekguards and eject button are blue instead of white; then his visor changes from red to white.
** Soundwave is colored as Perceptor, and Astrotrain as Cosmos, when the Decepticons leave to save the energon.
** When the droids first start firing on the Decepticons, the walls are shown glowing energon pink, but they haven't reached the energon stockpile yet.
** around the time when Megatron calls a retreat, Soundwave's visor is white.
** "Destroy the Autobot!" - as the Decepticons run along, Soundwave's missing his eject button, has some black stripes on his chest, and has blue cheekguards again.
* Missing body parts:
** As we looking over Perceptor's shoulder in Autobot Headquarters, his head is missing! His cannon's also missing some of its black coloration.
** When Seaspray and Bumblebee are seen carrying Cosmos, only Cosmos' upper half is there! Perceptor's missing his Autobot symbol as he walks behind the other Autobots.
** As Seaspray warns Mok, his left arm is missing.
** "It's those blasted rebels again" - Astrotrain's right wing is missing.
** When Rumble is ordered by Megatron to follow Seaspray and Alana, his rear-mounted weapon disappears as he moves forward; meanwhile, Megatron's gun barrel is missing.
* When Alana runs to assist Chac, the first cell is reversed, making her appear to be on the wrong side of the screen for an instant.
* Lots of misaligned glow effects in this episode:
** When Seaspray starts to receive the distress message, a glow effect is shown, but it's not illuminating any of his components.
** In the first shot of Cosmos beginning to enter the atmosphere, the heat flame effect is off to one side of him.
** When the droids open fire on Cosmos, the laser beams are misaligned so that they're not coming from the guns, but from a bit to the right of the guns.
** When they first attack the city to rescue Bumblebee, a couple of the rebel's shots aren't aligned with their guns.
** The glow of Bumblebee's homing beacon is not inside the lines of the buttons he's pushing in two successive shots. Neither are the glowing components on Seaspray's side as he receives the signal.
* In the nighttime establishing shot of Autobot Headquarters, the ship is tilted much more steeply than usual, almost vertical to the ground.
* In the first shot of the newly arrived Decepticons, Rumble's model is replaced by one Deceptitran's droid's. Also, Dirge and Soundwave are both missing their Decepticon symbols.
* As Deceptitran tells Megatron about the Autobots, he's floating above the floor instead of sitting on it.
* Soundwave's 'con symbol is missing again as he moves to capture Bumblebee.
* Flying Autobots:
** Perceptor and Bumblebee are showing "flying" along underwater without moving their limbs, despite not having any means of propulsion. Seaspray should be using his propellers, but he's not.
* Missing [[Transformation#The noise|transformation noise]]:
** After randomly declaring that "we may be able to repair ourselves after all" for no apparent reason, Perceptor transforms to robot mode with no transformation sound.
** The Decepticons land and transform in sequence to pursue Seaspray into the energon warehouse, but only a single transformation sound effect plays. Dirge finishes his transformation in silence.
* When Alana tells Seaspray to take the tunnel to the surface, Seaspray stops - but his propellors are drawn as though they're still spinning, even though they're not moving.
* Seaspray's shot (which severs Deceptitran's arm) doesn't get the usual Autobot laser sound effect.
* Megatron tells Dirge and the droids to chase Seaspray and Alana, but only the droids go. One of the droids freezes in place behind Megatron as he lands.
* When Rumble moves forward to start the attack, the perspective of his body doesn't correspond to the perspective of his gun.
* Wrong laser sounds:
** Dirge gets a non-standard laser effect as he fires at Seaspray.
** Megatron's fusion cannon doesn't make its standard sound as he laughs during the attack.
[[File:G1-Cartoon-SeaChange-Rumble-Tree.jpg|right|upright=1.1|thumb|Rumble's plan to attract hot tree huggers goes awry.]]
* After Rumble's and Seaspray's transformative glow effects vanish, the backgrounds don't change back to normal with it.
* When Rumble is changed into a tree, he appears to be simply a tree with a mouth and eye holes, but during his close-up, his face is its regular, robotic self, apart from the fact his visor is now two separate eyes. The tree images in general look rather unfinished.
* The animators did a pretty good job of remembering that Deceptitran is missing an arm, but it briefly reappears as Alana and Seaspray approach for the second time.

===Continuity errors===
[[File:Cosmos in space.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|Inside: Seaspray, Bumblebee, Perceptor, and two of every animal in its kind.]]
[[File:SeaChange Energy syphon.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|He's like 50 Dr. Arkevilles.]]
*In all of its other appearances, Cosmos's interior is shown to have light grey walls with a dark grey floor. For this episode only, his interior is the same burnt orange color as the interior of Autobot HQ.
* Moreover, he's got a carrying capacity far greater than what was shown in "[[Blaster Blues]]" and "[[Cosmic Rust (episode)|Cosmic Rust]]" (though comparable to what's shown in "[[Quest for Survival]]".) He ''does'' turn away Optimus Prime as being too big to fit, implying that there is ''some'' kind of size limit on his interior.
* In "The Ultimate Doom" it was shown that Dr. Arkeville couldn't even fill 1 energon cube with his brain power, yet the energy from Chac instantly fills a cube. Deceptitran's equipment appears to do a full-body power drain from the Tlalakans, as opposed to just using "mind energy" as Starscream did.
*Although Tlaloc appears to be among the mer-Tlalakans leading the escaping prisoners away, he later expresses surprise that Alana and Mok are free.
* As usual, it's a bit weird that Perceptor transforms to microscope mode to look at a screen.
* Why is Dirge setting up a probe to extract information from Bumblebee? Megatron's got Soundwave right there, and [[Roll for It|he's done this]] [[War of the Dinobots|multiple times before]]. Aside from being [[Decepticon Mini-Cassette|cassette-guy]], it's kind of his main thing.
* After Alana and Seaspray rescue Bumblebee, Megatron orders "Dirge! Droids! Follow them!" However, Dirge, who is standing right next to him, doesn't move. And he's still depicted with Megatron in the very next scene, when Megatron is dealing with the hysterical Deceptitran.
*It's implied that the Tlalakans can only change form while in the Well of Transformation, yet Alana's transformation between robot and gondola modes uses the same effect as a Tlalakan changing, rather than a traditional Transformer transformation (as you would expect from her having imitated Cosmos's species) and she's nowhere near the Well. Likewise, she changes from a pink metal robot into a brown wooden boat.
*Also, how is Alana able to shoot lasers when transformed? It looks like they just come out of her body!

===Trivia===
* Number of times someone says "Destroy the Autobots": 4
* "I'm, uh, sorry about what happened to your city," says Seaspray, in a hilariously avoidant use of the passive voice - "what happened" to it was that ''Seaspray blew it up!''

===Foreign localization===
'''Italian'''
:*''Title (dub 1):'' "'''Il pianeta Tritone'''" ("The Planet Tritone")
:*''Title (dub 2):'' "'''Cambio di marea'''" ("Change of Tide")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Henshin no Izumi'''" (変身の泉, "The Spring of Transformation")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[May 16]], [[1986]]

'''Mandarin'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Bàngwǎn de Xīngxīng '''" (傍晚的星星, "Stars at Nightfall")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Russian'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Morje menyayetsya'''" (Море меняется, "The Sea Is Changing")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
{{-}}

===Toys inspired by this episode===
[[File:TF-Titans-Return-Seaspray.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|And they look at you ... and they KNOW. And they say "Who's Alanna?"]]
*'''Seaspray''' (Legends Class, [[2017]])
**''Accessories'': Blaster/roof

:''[[Titans Return (toyline)|Titans Return]]'' and ''[[Transformers Legends (franchise)|Legends]]'' Seaspray's inner forearms have [[Alana]]'s name (though spelled "Alan'''n'''a") engraved in [[Alphabet#Autobot script|Ancient Autobot]] in reference to this episode. Apparently he ran out and got the Autobot equivalent of a tattoo.
{{-}}

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;{{w|LaserDisc}}
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1995 — ''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' — Megatron Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1999 — ''The Transformers'' — Decepticon Edition ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2001 — ''The Transformers'' — DVD Box 2 (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2003 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 2 ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2003 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 2: Vol. 6 (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 2 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Collection 3: Series 2.2 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of Italy.png|20px|Italy]] 2009 — ''Transformers'' — Volume 05: Stagione Due Parte Terza ([[Medianetwork Communication]]) — English and Italian audio. 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2009 — ''Transformers'' — Season Two: Part Two (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Season Two, Volume Two: 25th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2011 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Original Series (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''The Transformers'' — Season Two, Volume Two: 30th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2014 — ''Transformers'' — The Classic Animated Series (Metrodome)

==External links==
*[http://cybertronchronicle.freewebspace.com/cartoon-dossier/season-2/synopses/700-48.html Episode Dossier at The Cybertron Chronicle]
*[https://drive.google.com/open?id=1BM_e63erCeyF4IhpuedhE8-1SxN2dN5w Episode dialogue script]

[[Category:The Transformers episodes]]
[[Category:Generation 2 episodes]]

Make Tracks

2020-05-01T17:42:55Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{disambig2|the Generation 1 cartoon episode|the Marvel UK comic story with a similar title|Makin' Tracks!}}
{{episode
|image=Maketracksraoul.jpg
|caption="I really think we should exchange insurance." "Nah, nah man, it's fine. You can totally buff that out. And that's ''supposed'' to be on fire."
|series=G1toon
|ep=43
|series2=SRLFtoon
|ep2=33
|prev2=The God Gambit
|next2=Quest for Survival
|title="Make Tracks"
|airdate=[[October 30]], 1985
|written by=[[David Wise]]
|production code=#700-42
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|animation studio=[[Unknown Generation 1 animation studios|Unknown]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''The Transformers go to New York, and Tracks makes a friend.'''

==Synopsis==
In [[New York City]], two thugs carjack a familiar looking car, which also has a stereo sitting in the front seat. Heading to a chop shop, the punks try to sell the car...at which point the car turns into [[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]], and the stereo turns into [[Blaster (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blaster]]. The chop shop head, [[Winston]], tries to run, when [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] arrives. Winston vainly tries to shoot Optimus as the actual police arrive and arrest him.

The [[Autobot]]s are helping the NYPD in a crime busting program, but their [[Great War (G1)|never ending war]] is also on Prime's mind. The Autobot leader is convinced that the [[Decepticon]]s are nearby, plotting mischief, as they are prone to do, but the Autobots just can't find them. Heading back to [[Sparkplug Witwicky]]'s garage, Tracks is enjoying the city so he decides to go for a drive, while [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]], [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]], [[Seaspray (G1)|Seaspray]], [[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]] and [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]] go out on patrol.

[[File:G1MakeTracks TracksRaoul.jpg|left|upright=1.1|thumb|Naughty boy. Spankings for you.]]
Tracks has a run-in with some more punks and scares them off, but one of the punks shoots a tire out, causing Tracks to crash. Unable to [[Transformation|transform]] or call the garage, he is found by young [[Raoul]], who drags him to an alley and plans to sell him to the [[Geddis brothers]]. Once he learns that Tracks is alive, he decides to fix him up, but he's still planning on selling him. Raoul accidentally cuts a wire that connects Tracks' computer to his body and silences the Autobot, but reconnects it. (That's one important wire.)

On patrol, Seaspray is disgusted with what the humans have dumped in the East River (aren't we all). Cosmos swoops down to inspect an accident, which Huffer and Hoist help clear up. They update Prime, who is getting worried about Tracks.

Back at the alley, Raoul is done, and is having second thoughts about selling Tracks. The Geddis brothers arrive and start to rough up Raoul, only for Tracks to transform and "ask" them to stop. The Geddis brothers flee, mentioning how shocked they are that a Transformer is attacking them. Tracks and Raoul follow, Tracks having deduced that they must be dealing with the Decepticons. They lose the Geddis brothers, but Raoul knows their main garage is down by the wharf. Heading there, Tracks and Raoul follow the legion of stolen cars.

[[File:Maketracksstarscreammall.jpg|right|upright=1.1|thumb|Starscream knows the best way to avoid lines on [[Black Friday (event)|Black Friday]]: rob the store on Thanksgiving.]]
Above them, Powerglide spots [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]], and follows him. Powerglide and Cosmos chase the [[Air Commander]] into a human mall, only for Starscream to threaten the civilians and escape. Prime calculates that Starscream is heading for the [[Pine Barrens]] in [[New Jersey (Earth)|New Jersey]], and the Autobots roll out.

Somewhere in the Pine Barrens, the Geddis brothers are working with the Decepticons to provide them with 500 stolen cars. The Geddis brothers demand their million dollar payment. [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] shows them the business end of the [[fusion cannon]], and one of the brothers fires off a few shots at Megatron. A single blast from Megatron sends the Geddis brothers running. Tracks tries to contact Prime, but his radio is still damaged, so he decides to get up close and personal, seeing what Megatron intends. When he discovers that the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] are intending to dismantle the cars, Tracks attempts to flee, only for the wire connecting his computer to sever again. Tracks is placed on the conveyor belt with the other cars ready for demolition.

[[File:Maketracksprimewatches.jpg|left|upright=1.1|thumb|Prime defeated Megatron, Starscream, Shockwave, and death itself...but the traffic of New York horrified him more than anything.]]
Realizing Tracks is in danger, Raoul reveals himself to the Decepticons and says he placed a bomb in his car. Megatron allows him to disarm it, but instead Raoul reconnects the wire that reactivates Tracks and the pair bail. [[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] sends [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] and [[Ravage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ravage]] to hunt and kill, and Tracks is running out of power. He tells Raoul to run, but [[Sideswipe (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sideswipe]], [[Jazz (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Jazz]] and [[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]] arrive and drive [[Decepticon Mini-Cassette|the two cassettes]] off.

Back at the garage, Tracks and Raoul fill the Autobots in on what's happening, just as the Autobots discover first-hand that the rebuilt cars are heading into New York. Prime, Blaster, and [[Ratchet (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ratchet]] defend the Washington Bridge, as Tracks, Bumblebee, [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]], and Sideswipe defend the [[Chrysler Building]], while [[Ironhide (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ironhide]], Huffer, and [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] defend another part of the city. Just when the Autobots believe they have the upper hand, the cars transform into gun-wielding drones, presenting a severe tactical deficiency.

[[File:Maketracksspraymegatron.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|"Uh, I came in for a dental appointment, not surgery."]]
Ratchet realizes that the drones are being remotely controlled, and that the Jersey base is the source. Blaster jams the control frequency, allowing the Autobots time to break off to attack the Decepticon base. Raoul tries to take a crow bar to the controls of the car drone factory. However, Megatron captures Raoul, and orders the Autobots to surrender. Raoul opens a panel on Megatron's chest, and uses a spray paint can to short circuit the Decepticon leader. Rumble orders a retreat back to the [[Decepticon Headquarters (G1 Earth)|base]] before Starscream can declare himself the new leader. The Autobots destroy the factory, causing the drone army to shut down.

[[File:Make-Tracks_Drone_Transformation.jpg|left|upright=1.1|thumb|The coolest episode McGuffin yet, and they get barely over 2 minutes of screen time.]]
At Sparkplug's garage, the poor fleshling predicts that it will take weeks to restore the cars to their original configuration, even with Ratchet, Hoist, and [[Wheeljack (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Wheeljack]]'s help. Raoul takes that as his cue to leave, only for Tracks to "volunteer" Raoul for repair duty.
{{-}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
{{collist|2|
*[[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]] (1)
*[[Blaster (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blaster]] (4)
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] (6)
*[[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]] (8)
*[[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]] (9)
*[[Seaspray (G1)|Seaspray]] (10)
*[[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] (11)
*[[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] (12)
*[[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] (13)
*[[Sideswipe (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sideswipe]] (23)
*[[Jazz (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Jazz]] (24)
*[[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]] (25)
*[[Ratchet (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ratchet]] (26)
*[[Ironhide (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ironhide]] (27)
*[[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] (28)
*[[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] (29)
}}
|c2=
*[[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] (16)
*[[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (17)
*[[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (18)
*[[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (19)
*[[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] (20)
*[[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (21)
*[[Ravage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ravage]] (22)
*[[Thundercracker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Thundercracker]] (30)
|c3=
*Car Thief 1 (2)
*Car Thief 2 (3)
*[[Winston]] (5)
*[[Sparkplug Witwicky]] (7)
*[[Raoul]] (14)
*[[Geddis brothers]] (15)
}}

==Quotes==
"Well, nobody seems to want you, so that makes you mine."
:—'''Raoul''' demonstrating a very lax understanding of property law as he steals Tracks.

"Look, I've been shot at, smashed up, and stolen three times tonight, and I'm in a most foul humor."
:—'''Tracks'''. Some days, it just doesn't pay to be an ambiguously gay car.

"That car... talks!" 
"You've got a mind like a steel trap."
:—'''Raoul''' and '''Tracks'''

"First time in my life I try to steal a car, and I get one with a big mouth."
:—'''Raoul''' discovers karma.

"How do you do, Starscream? Not very well, I hope!"
:—'''Cosmos''' introduces himself with laser blasts.

"Attention, Soundwave: Uh-oh!"
:—'''Starscream''' just wanted Soundwave to know he's okay.

"I have no desire to be carved up into Auto-sushi!"
:—'''Tracks''' somehow knows what sushi is.

"They don't look all that smart to me. Ha! Their aim's not too good either." 
"Maybe, but they've got us outnumbered. Fire!"
:—'''Blaster''' and '''Optimus Prime''' on the drones.

"Let us stomp out these cheap imitations!"
:—'''Tracks''' disapproves of [[knockoff]]s.

"I'll teach you to mess with the [[Chrysler Building]]!"
:—'''Tracks''' to the drones.

"Throw down your weapon, Prime!"
:—'''Megatron''', about to experience his most humiliating defeat yet.

==Notes==
===Production information===
* First draft script: 11th March 1985
* Script revised by [[Ron Friedman]]: 14th March 1985

===Continuity notes===
[[File:MakeTracks Seaspray communicator.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
*According to this episode, Sparkplug has a set of warehouses/garages in New York that can hold 200 cars and a makeshift Autobot base (complete with a copy of Teletraan I!).
*Raoul would appear again in "[[Auto-Bop]]".
*Tracks can be disabled by cutting ''one'' wire. It just happens to be right under his hood, which is one of the more vulnerable places on an Autobot's body.
*Megatron can be disabled by a ''can of spray-paint''.
*Gadgets and powers:
**Seaspray uses a common wrist communicator to radio in, accompanied by a blinking light on his chest.

===Real-world references===
[[File:MakeTracks Chrysler Building.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
[[File:Maketracks tftm.jpg|right|upright=1.1|thumb|Metaformers: The Reference]]
*Tracks comments on the cliché of loving New York, which is a reference to the {{w|I Love New York|famous New York advertising campaign}}. This ad was also seen earlier in the season in "[[City of Steel (episode)|City of Steel]]".
*Though it's not named, the bridge battle seems to occur on the George Washington Bridge.
*Tracks identifies the Chrysler Building for us (as do several of the omnipresent signs.)
*The backgrounds in this episode are absolutely ''loaded'' with signs (the animators appear to have used Tokyo as a model as much as NYC.) Quite a few advertise actual real-world brand names. Many are illegible, but some can be read:
**Most notably, in two different scenes (basically using the same background), a movie theater can be shown advertising ''[[The Transformers: The Movie (fictional)|The Transformers: The Movie]]''. (More specifically, it advertises both "Transformers: The Transformers: The Movie" and "Transformer: The Transformer: The Movie".)
**The opening pan includes "FD Rum Appliances", "Life Life", "Star", "Victoria Hotel", "Lido", and "Astoria". That last one shows up again later - Powerglide flies by it when he is reporting in to Prime. While presumably done to reference the famous Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, Astoria is also, coincidentally enough, the name of the girl who'll fall for Powerglide in "[[The Girl Who Loved Powerglide]]".
**In the pan that introduces the two car thief punks: "Night"
**As they drive Tracks away: "Stano Bar", "Mugen Nightclub", "William(?) Intercom Portraits". "Stano Bar" and "Mugen" repeat a couple of shots later - were the punks just driving around the block?? Tracks later returns to this spot when he encounters the trio of thugs.
**As Tracks hits the street lamp: "Restaurant Luncheonette", "BB Club", "Gold Steak(?)", "Portr(aits?)"
**As Raul laments his car thieving luck: "New York Holidays", "Astoria Hotel", "Crown", "Automat", "Imporded" [''sic''], "Banana", and "Night Clove".
**As Cosmos swoops down: "Huston", "Apollo", "Kilimanjaro", "Las Vegas", "Jamiaca(?) Academy". Also briefly visible is a truck based on Prime's [[alternate mode]].
**As he careens around 5 feet above the street: "Canadian Club", "Dallas Starclub", "Amazon", and a pickup with "Ford" on the tailgate and mudflaps.
**As Tracks first pursues the Geddis Brothers: "Casablanca", "Abba Cafe", "Victoria restaurant"
**Visible alongside the TF:TM marquis: "Victoria" (another theater), "Toshiba", "Admiral Television Appliances"
**As the car chase continues: "Cuba Dance", "Dolce", "Fashion Show", "Forker Garbo", "Victoria Hotel" (apparently the most omnipresent chain in the city), "Dragons Club", "Angels Orion", "Hollono".
**Through Tracks' windshield: "Hitchco(ck)", "Devar", "Champ El"
**As Tracks launches into the sky: "Academy", "Cuba", "Ballad Opera", "[[Dallas]]", "Kentucky", "Canterbury", "Las Vegas", "Capone", "Alexander", "Acapolco", "Caracas".
**As they spot the Geddis' escaping car: "Camus" "Academy" "Casanova" "Country Club", "Dallas Ang(?)".
**After Tracks lands: "French Can Can Casinofolie Fokker Game", "Ceylon", "Diamond Game Casablanca Hustle Hot".
**As Starscream first dodges from Powerglide: "Angel Hotel", "Time Bell", "Hyway"
**As Starscream dives after Powerglide: "Angel Hotel", "Yesterday", "Club Honey Boy", "Sunny Girl", "Broad", "Sting Man", "Happy", "Sun Shine", "Momo Club"
**After Cosmos joins the battle: "Canadian", "Brazillion", "(Hol)iday In", "General Hospital"
**On the outside of the mall: "Clothing Original", "Accessory bargain sale", "Man and Woman Shoes Center", "Alexander", "Benelux Fashion"
**As the drones approach Bumblebee and company: "Caniiland", "Body Building", "Danube", "Beef Steak", "Hitchcock", "Clumos", "Crown Hotel", "Casino Game"
**As the drones explode a second later: "Parking", "Casino", "(?)rcheri", "Reff(?) Cine Stands", "Inmaxfactor"
*For maybe the first time in the whole series, a human's normal handgun makes bullet-shooting noises, when the car thief fires at Optimus outside the garage.
*''[[Star Wars (franchise)|Star Wars]]'' sound effects:
**Tracks takes off with a lengthy ''[[Millennium Falcon]]'' engine roar.
**Lots of [[Death Star]] defense lasers during the final firefight.

===Animation and technical errors===
*As the cop car arrives at the garage, its back door opens - but is shown to be hinged at the back instead of the front.
*As Blaster throws the punks on the ground, one of them clips through the police officers.
*The animators never seemed to get a good grasp on the design of Tracks' car mode, and this episode puts it on full display. For example, as he leaves Sparkplug's garage, he's drawn with over-sized tires and squished doors.
*Rauol restores Tracks' computer stuff, but in two behind-the-hood shots, the blinking lights are missing.
*As Prime activates a screen to contact Powerglide, the screen's initial static is wider than the screen itself.
*When Hoist hauls the damaged '4WD' (which is actually a sedan car) away, he drives floating mid-air into the background.
*Tracks' flying car mode is shown with nothing but 2 wings rotating out from under his chassis. Normally it's a full transformation with tailfins and some alterations to his back half.
*Starscream's first line appears to be cut off; he says "Attention Soundwave" even though Soundwave is not part of the story at this point, then goes "Uh oh" as he notices Powerglide following him.
*Starscream's shots at Powerglide use the Autobot laser sound effect.
*Coloring errors:
**Starscream's canopy is all-yellow as he pursues Powerglide, instead of having a grey cowling at the end.
**Sideswipe is colored as Soundwave twice — once in an overhead shot at the Autobot base, and again when the Autobots charge towards Megatron's building.
**The sides of Blaster's helmet are white as he transforms on the bridge.
*After Cosmos strafes Starscream, the details from the front of his ship mode are repeated on his back. Later, in the mall, they will be drawn on the back of his [[robot mode]] as well.
[[File:Maketracksstarscreammall.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1]]
*Starscream, Powerglide, and Cosmos have no trouble fitting in a shopping mall, walking right in through the main doors. They even run up (what must be an incredibly wide) escalator!
*"He must be hiding somewhere!" - Cosmos is a couple of heads taller than Powerglide. Normally he'd be about the same height or a bit shorter.
*Cosmos gets no transformation sound as he lands with the damaged elevator car.
*The first time we see Megatron, his gunbarrel is on the left side of his back. In the next shot, it's (correctly) on the right side.
*The other stolen cars randomly appear and disappear as Tracks rides the conveyor belt into the Decepticon building.
*As Tracks, low on power, kicks Raoul out to handle the Decepticons in robot mode, his car door opens backwards (hinged at the rear).
*The start of Teletraan's warning to Prime is cut off. Tracks then says "The Decepticon cars - they're here!" with the same radio muffling that is normally applied to Teletraan.
*When leaving to intercept the drones, Tracks is supposed to walk in front of Optimus, toward the camera; but he's layered behind Optimus therefore appears to be ''taller'' than Prime for a moment.
*Ratchet and Blaster's first shots aren't aligned with the barrels of their guns.
*All of the Decepticon drones are identical, right down to the color scheme, despite transforming from cars of wildly different makes and colors.
*As Blaster notes, "They don't look all that smart to me," Optimus Prime is the one shown to be speaking.
*The bridge fight has several errors: Sometimes the ground is smooth, while other times it has rectangular lines; several times, the drones and the Autobots are drawn with a sky background where the bridge towers should still be shown; and as Blaster activates his jammer, the cable wires disappear.
*Blaster activates his jamming frequency using the same switch the thieves pressed at the beginning of the episode to turn on his radio.
*The animations for muzzle flashes and lasers in this episode are very different and of a much lower quality than in most of the previous episodes (for instance, we usually see only the flashes and not the beams in closeups). The sound effects are different also, including Ironhide's weapon sounding like a chain gun, among other things.

===Continuity errors===
[[File:MakeHoistHuffer.jpg|right|upright=1.1|thumb|C'mon, it's not any worse than [[The Transformers: The Movie|Devastator forming inside of Astrotrain]], or [[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 2|the Autobots boarding Silverbolt like human passengers]], or [[Quest for Survival|Cosmos having an ejection chamber that can fit all of his passengers]].]]
[[File:MakeTracks Scrapper sword.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|Despite the special car-shaped cake, no-one attended Scrapper's birthday.]]
*After pointedly professing that he doesn't understand all of Tracks' fancy computer stuff, why the heck does Raoul just reach in and cut a random wire?
*And why DOES Tracks have such an easily reached vulnerability right under his hood?
*During the fender bender traffic jam, Hoist is seen riding in Huffer's cab. For scale reference, Huffer is ''shorter'' than Hoist in robot mode.
*The Geddis brothers rough up Raoul at midnight. Some time later, Powerglide and Cosmos harass Starscream in a shopping mall that's doing a pretty decent amount of business. Even in New York City, the malls don't stay open ''that'' late.
*Speaking of the mall, Starscream must be incredibly stealthy since all the mall patrons are oblivious to his presence. No one is screaming or running, and in fact people are just sitting down at tables or casually looking over ledges. You'd think by now they would realize that when a Decepticon appears, you don't want to hang around.
*Fighting against two flight capable Autobots, Starscream escapes... into the air?
*Hook, in a strangely stilted voice, says that "we are ready to ''re-''convert this final batch of vehicles, Megatron." ''Re-''conversion implies the cars had previously been converted, and the Constructicons were either converting them ''back'' or converting them ''again''.
*All the advanced technology at the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]]' disposal, technical know how to build transforming drones...and [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] is using a ''[[sword]]'' to slice the cars in half? And how does slicing them in half make them easier to convert into drones?
*Raoul must have a Doraemon-style inner-jacket pocket. There is no bulge or any other indication he is carrying a can that large... it basically materializes out of nowhere.
*And how did he know exactly what button opens Megatron's chest?

===Trivia===
*The [[New York City]] of this episode, while still a cartoon, is a lot more grimy and grungy than [[City of Steel (episode)|the last time we saw it]] (some might say more true to life.) It's got stolen cars, gangs, punks, a river full of garbage, traffic jams, and an overall darkness that fits with the 1980s perception of the city.
*Even given that 500 cars have been stolen and it's late at night, there seems to be a severe lack of traffic (in the streets and on the bridge) in New York City. The Autobots and the drones are the only vehicles/robots we see towards the end of the episode.
*Tracks has a subtly different color model to normal in this episode: his white parts are a stark, bright white, instead of greyish off-white, his wheels are the same grey as his arms and legs, instead of their normal near-black, and he has black windows in robot mode instead of the usual clear/off-white. This alternate color scheme reappears in "[[The Secret of Omega Supreme]]".
*One new commercial bumper debuts in this episode: [[Hook (G1)|Hook]].

===Foreign localization===
'''Italian'''
:*''Title (dub 1):'' "'''Battaglia per New York'''" ("Battle for New York")
:*''Title (dub 2):'' "'''Sulle tracce di Tracks'''" ("On the Trail of Tracks")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Senshi Tracks'''" (戦士トラックス, "Tracks the Warrior")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[February 21]], [[1986]]

'''Mandarin'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Gēnzōng Zhuījī '''" (跟踪追击, "Chase & Track")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Russian'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Nastoyashchaya droozhba'''" (Настоящая дружба, "The Real Friendship")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

===Toys inspired by this episode===
[[File:MP25-Tracks.jpg|thumb|upright=0.8|Straight off your TV screen.]]
*'''''[[The Transformers: Masterpiece|Masterpiece]]'' MP-25 [[Tracks (G1)/toys#Masterpiece|Tracks]] ([[TakaraTomy]], 2015)'''
:A ''Masterpiece'' figure of Tracks that includes a non-transforming boombox accessory that represents [[Blaster (G1)/toys#Masterpiece|Blaster]]'s alternate mode, as well as a minifigure of [[Raoul#Masterpiece|Raoul]], with his clothes specifically in the color scheme seen in "Make Tracks" (although his skin is pale like in "[[Auto-Bop]]").
{{-}}

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;{{w|LaserDisc}}
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] [[1994]] — ''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' — Convoy Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] [[1998]] — ''The Transformers'' — Autobot Edition ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] [[2001]] — ''The Transformers'' — DVD Box 1 (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] [[2003]] — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 2 ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2003 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 2: Vol. 5 (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] [[2004]] — ''Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 2 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Collection 3: Series 2.2 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] [[2006]] — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] [[2007]] — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of Italy.png|20px|Italy]] [[2009]] — ''Transformers'' — Volume 05: Stagione Due Parte Terza ([[Medianetwork Communication]]) — English and Italian audio. 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2009 — ''Transformers'' — Season Two: Part Two (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Season Two, Volume One: 25th Anniversary Edition ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] [[2011]] — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Original Series (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] [[2014]] — ''The Transformers'' — Season Two, Volume One: 30th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2014 — ''Transformers'' — The Classic Animated Series (Metrodome)

==External links==
*[http://cybertronchronicle.freewebspace.com/cartoon-dossier/season-2/synopses/700-42.html Episode Dossier at The Cybertron Chronicle]
*[https://drive.google.com/open?id=1lTa2fxrkDpMypac1dFa1OLQh_hPy99US Full episode script, as revised by Ron Friedman 14th March 1985]

[[Category:The Transformers episodes]]

Blaster Blues

2020-04-27T18:06:17Z

RQ87-D2: /* Synopsis */

{{episode
|series=G1toon
|ep=39
|series2=SRLFtoon
|ep2=50
|prev2=The Core
|next2=Prime Target (episode)
|series3=''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (cartoon)|Transformers: Generation 2]]''
|ep3=34
|prev3=Microbots
|next3=Sea Change
|image=BlasterBlues Megatron threatens Blaster.jpg
|caption="No, Megatron! My girlfriend will break me up!"
|title="Blaster Blues"
|production code=#700-38
|airdate=[[October 23]], 1985
|written by=[[Larry Strauss]]
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}

'''The Decepticons hijack Earth's airwaves. Yet somehow, you are still able to watch this episode.'''

==Synopsis==
[[File:Blasterbluesconcertcrowd.jpg|left|upright=1.1|thumb|Did Spike and Carly take an Autobot on all of their dates?]]

[[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike]] and [[Carly]] are at a rock concert, having taken [[Blaster (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blaster]] along for the music. Enjoying the concert, Spike wishes that the rest of the [[Autobot]]s could hear the music, so Blaster begins transmitting to all of them. Off in space, [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] gets a real kick out of the music.

At the [[Ark (G1)|Autobot base]], [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] and [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]] are observing [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]]'s target practice on [[Teletraan I]], when Blaster's music from the concert begins playing on their channel. Sparkplug and most of the Autobots are not enjoying the overwhelming volume, but [[Jazz (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Jazz]] gets the chance to show off his dancing skills.

At the [[Haley Observatory]], [[Haley|Professor Haley]] introduces his new creation, the [[Voltronic Galaxer]], to his fellow scientists. The device is intended to translate Earth's recordings into other languages and broadcast them into space, in search of intelligent life. Seemingly, the Transformers don't count. During his first test of the device, the scientist is quite surprised when he gets a response... which turns to horror when he sees it's the Decepticons. [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]], as he is oft wont to do, begins firing randomly, but [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] orders him to stop, saying that they need the Voltronic Galaxer.

At the Autobot base, Optimus Prime is so annoyed by the music that he outright tells Blaster to "shut up", but to no avail. Only a distress call from the scientist finally gets Blaster to stop. After the Autobots arrive at the observatory, they find that the Decepticons have already fled with their prize. Optimus Prime vows to find it and bring the Voltronic Galaxer back.

[[File:Blasterbluesprimedirectstraffic.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Prime's day job]]

Splitting up into groups, the Autobots begin the search. [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]], Spike and Carly have already searched half the hemisphere, while Cosmos and Blaster are searching outer space. They locate the Decepticons in a [[Decepticon lunar dome base|base]] on the [[Moon (moon)|Moon]], where Megatron is plotting to take control of Earth's radio airwaves. Blaster and Cosmos are caught, however, before they can contact the Autobots. Blaster is forced into use as a transcrambler, while Cosmos powers the device. Megatron orders the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]] to return to Earth as the radio blackout commences.

On Earth, the communications blackout is scrambling even the Autobots' radio channels. [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] and [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] barely manage to stop a forest fire, while [[Prowl (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Prowl]], [[Ratchet (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ratchet]], [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]], and [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] free motorists trapped on a frozen highway, where [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]] and [[Thundercracker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Thundercracker]] attack.

[[File:Blasterbluespgcarriesprime.jpg|left|upright=1.1|thumb|I'm not paid enough to carry this around.]]

At an airport, Powerglide is attempting to land, when Ramjet and Thundercracker attack, damaging both Powerglide and Optimus Prime. Spike manages to strap a [[jet pack]] onto Powerglide, giving him some extra boost. As Megatron begins broadcasting his demands to Earth, Blaster plays music from the concert on the same channel. Carly recognizes the tunes and manages to track the transmission back to the Moon. They head for the Autobot base. Carly does some quick repairs on Optimus then the two teens and Powerglide load Prime onto Omega, who takes them to space.

Once Omega lands on the Moon, Megatron and Astrotrain attack him. Omega manages to get his hand on Megatron, but Astrotrain rams Omega in train mode, causing him to release Megatron. Astrotrain then flees and Omega transforms into rocket mode and follows. Seeing Optimus Prime defenseless, Megatron decides to hit him while he's down, only for the [[Prime (rank)|Autobot leader]] to reactivate just in time to defend himself.

[[File:Blasterbluesop&mdance.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|One shall stand; one shall get tossed around a little bit and run away crying "Retreat!!"]]

With no one to guard them, Blaster and Cosmos cause the voltronic galaxer to receive feedback and explode. Seeing his latest technology ruined, Megatron retreats. After freeing them, Blaster mentions that he could rebuild the Decepticon moonbase into a new Autobot base. Cosmos likes the idea, as it would give him some company. Optimus agrees, but orders him to keep an eye on his volume.

Soon, however, Blaster is back to transmitting loud rock music over the air waves again. Some stereos never learn.

{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Blaster (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blaster]] (3)
*[[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] (4)
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] (5)
*[[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] (6)
*[[Jazz (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Jazz]] (8)
*[[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]] (9)
*[[Ironhide (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ironhide]] (14)
*[[Ratchet (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ratchet]] (15)
*[[Cliffjumper (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cliffjumper]] (16)
*[[Hound (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hound]] (17)
*[[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (18)
*[[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] (19)
*[[Sideswipe (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sideswipe]] (20)
*[[Mirage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Mirage]] (21)
*[[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]] (22)
*[[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]] (24)
*[[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]] (25)
*[[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] (26)
*[[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] (30)
*[[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] (31)
*[[Prowl (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Prowl]] (33)

|c2=
*[[Thundercracker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Thundercracker]] (11)
*[[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] (12)
*[[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] (13)
*[[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (23)
*[[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]] (35)
*[[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] (36)

|c3=
*[[Carly]] (1)
*[[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike Witwicky]] (2)
*[[Sparkplug Witwicky]] (7)
*[[Haley|Professor Haley]] (10)
*Air Traffic Controllers (27)
*Pilot (28)
*Railroad workers (29)
*Meteorologist (31)
*Motorists (34)
}}

==Quotes==
[[File:BlasterBlues Professor Haley.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|Hey, everyone, it's Tuuuuuuesday, and you're listening to the Giant Botcast...]]
"Where are you? In another galaxy?" 
"''Much'' closer than ''that!!'' Huhu~hwa~ha~hahaha~haha~hahaha!!"
:—'''Professor Haley''' contacts '''Megatron''', the master of dry wit.

'''Optimus''': My audio receptors! What is that noise?! 
'''Hoist''': Humans call it 'music'. 
'''Sparkplug''': Not ''this'' human! 
'''Jazz''': Sounds all right to me!
:—Sparkplug and the Autobots share their opinions on Blaster's choice in music.

"The Earth is but a speck on the arm of the universe."
:—'''Human scientist''' bolstering his race's importance in the cosmos.

"Blaster! Decrease volume! ... Blaster! '''SHUT UP!'''"
:—'''Optimus Prime''' in another fine example of subordinate management.

'''Ironhide''': Where did the call originate? 
'''Optimus''': I don't know! All I can hear is that blasted Blaster!
:—[[Peter Cullen]]'s annoyance at Blaster's loud music.

[[File:BlasterBlues blaster altmode.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|Today on Capitol Hill, the fish was delish, and according to [[United Nations|UN]] Secretary Council members, it made quite a dish. You are listening to member-supported public radio.]]
"Hey, talk about no place. I can't even get a bottom 40 station out here."
:—'''Blaster''' doesn't enjoy outer space duty inside Cosmos.

"It's Blaster!" 
"Why that son of an 8-track."
:—'''Ratchet''' and '''Trailbreaker'''

"Release Autobots, Megatron!" 
"Never!" 
"Reeeelease them!"
:—'''Omega Supreme''' adds some "hands on" pressure to dealing with '''Megatron'''

"Looks like the big boy needs a little training!"
:—'''Astrotrain''', proving the pun is indeed mightier than the sword. Unfortunately, it's not as mighty as Omega Supreme.

==Notes==
===Production information===
* First draft script: 13th March 1985
* Script revised by [[Ron Friedman]]: 18th March 1985

===Continuity notes===
[[File:Blasterbluestrailerchase.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Last one out of the parking lot gets stuck with the check.]]
[[File:Trailbreakerdance.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|[https://shortpacked.com/comic/iammegatron '''''I... AM... TRAILBREAKER!!!''''']]]
*Jazz has righteous moves, but they are limited by his bulky body.
*Gadgets and powers:
**Blaster's boom box mode in the opening scenes is as tall as a human.
**Red Alert's "horns" flash to indicate Decepticon activity, just like in "[[Auto Berserk]]". This time they're orange, though.
**Ratchet and the rest can deploy tire studs to deal with snow-covered roads.
**Hoist deploys a long snakey tentacle with a claw at the end to catch a falling motorist. How many devices can he [[Auto Berserk|carry]], anyway??
**This time, Trailbreaker's forcefield just kind of radiates out of thin air in front of his head. He's able to form it into a dome, which he can then place where he wants it... but, to his later misfortune, he remains outside the dome himself.
**Powerglide can deploy a suction cup line capable of carrying wounded Autobots around like limp ragdolls, leaving them flapping in the breeze.... say, aren't you supposed to ''not move'' the injured?
**Omega Supreme clearly leaves most of himself behind when he launches for the Moon. When he arrives there, he lands in rocket mode amid a cloud of smoke... and when the smoke clears, the left-behind bits have appeared. Later, he transforms out of just the rocket (conveniently off-screen) while in mid-flight.
*Where's the trailer go?:
**During the scene at the observatory, Optimus transforms and drives away, and there is an extended moment where his trailer drives off after him to catch up.
*Omega Supreme actually uses whole sentences in this episode. That's just crazy.

===Real-world references===
[[File:BlasterBlues Haley Observatory.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1]]
*The names of Professor Haley and his eponymous observatory are likely inspired by {{w|Halley's Comet}}, which was beginning its once-every-76-years trip through the inner solar system when the episode aired in late [[1985]].
*''[[Star Wars (franchise)|Star Wars]]'' sound effects:
**''[[Millennium Falcon]]'' engine burst is strangely repurposed as the burning fires at the observatory as the Decepticons close in.
**[[X-wing Fighter|X-Wings]] diving, ''Falcon'' engine burst, and [[Death Star]] superlaser all in a row as the Decepticons launch from the observatory.
**''Falcon'' engine burst as Megatron takes off from Astrotrain
**X-Wings diving as the 'cons fly aboard Astrotrain
**Death Star superlaser as Astrotrain pursues Cosmos.
**[[TIE Fighter]] engine as Cosmos evades.
**The Death Star door slide is used as a steam engine sound effect.
**A [[Stormtrooper (SW)|Stormtrooper]]'s laser gun is used to soundtrack Ramjet and Thundercracker's attack on Inferno and Red Alert, possibly taken from when [[Luke Skywalker|Luke]] & [[Han Solo|Han]] ambush the stormtroopers aboard the ''Falcon''.
**''Falcon'' engine burst as Megatron launches from the Moon.
*Trailbreaker mentions 8-tracks. Did kids in 1985 even know what an 8-track is?
*"Bang, zoom, to the Moon!" - Powerglide's line is a play on a signature line of Ralph Kramden from ''[[The Honeymooners]]''...whose actor Jackie Gleason was also the inspiration for Powerglide's voice.
*"Parting is such sweet sorrow!" - Megatron prepares to kill Prime while quoting one of [[William Shakespeare|Shakespeare's]] most famous lines.

===Animation and technical errors===
*The rock band at the concert is playing ''two songs at once'', both "[[Cold Slither (song)|Cold Slither]]" and the generic big band/hard rock song. "Cold Slither" is missing a moment later when Blaster sends the music to the Autobots.
*The guitarist is seen 'playing' his guitar with only his right arm, as his left (which should be doing the fretwork) is up in the air.
*The arena's seats have more than a seat's width between them. The owners must've been expecting some ''seriously'' fat patrons.
*Cosmos's voice in his first couple of lines lacks his usual self-echo.
*As Megatron gloats on top of the observatory, his laugh plays over itself (i.e., the same laugh twice).
*Improbable viewpoints:
**So Blaster sends the music from the concert to the Autobots. How does he manage to send a 3rd-person view of ''himself'' at the same time?
**Do Tracks and Huffer have a video camera with them to report in to Prime?
**Does Prime have a camera stationed at the city docks to show Powerglide flying in aimless circles?
*The reporter at the observatory has already written down Professor Haley's words before he's finished saying them.
*Recycled footage:
**Prime's trailer rolling in from offscreen seems to be recycled from "[[The Ultimate Doom, Part 2]]".
**The shot of Ironhide, Trailbreaker and Hound converting to [[alternate mode|vehicle mode]] is lifted from "[[Atlantis, Arise!]]"
**The pan of Sunstreaker and Sideswipe transforming comes right out of "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]".
**The same "MTMTE1" scene is mined again to show Trailbreaker transforming as the Autobots deploy to deal with the loss of radio communications.
*Astrotrain has no transformation sound effect as he leaves the tunnel and converts from train to shuttle.
[[File:Blasterbluesprowlcarries.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|Coloring error not included.]]
*Coloring errors:
**Trailbreaker's eyeband is black instead of blue as Optimus quizzes the professor about the Voltronic Galaxer. The points of his cheeks are colored blue instead.
**Cosmos's "cap" is green instead of red as he lands on the Moon.
**Prowl's head crest is white instead of red as he closes Ratchet's passenger compartment (and can't Ratchet do that himself?)
**Blaster's forehead is red instead of white as Megatron threatens him.
**Cosmos's helmet is green instead of red as Prime frees Blaster (which, by the way, seems to consist of just helping him to his feet, rather than freeing him from any "welding" done by Astrotrain.)
*Appearing/disappearing Autobots: Prime's initial squad fluctuates all over the place.
**The initial group receiving the transmission is Prime, Jazz, Ratchet, Ironhide, Hoist & Cliffjumper.
**Mirage, Sideswipe, Sunstreaker and Hound show up to transform prior to rolling out, and are not seen again. Trailbreaker shows up at the same time.
**Bumblebee, Wheeljack, and Prowl (or maybe Bluestreak) show up as the Autobots depart.
**The group that finally arrives at the observatory is Prime, Jazz, Ratchet, Ironhide, Hoist, Bumblebee & Trailbreaker, which means we've lost seven guys.
*When the Autobots drive away from the observatory, a shot of the Autobots from the front shows them driving over bare rock rather than the asphalt road.
*Powerglide's cockpit has changed from a fighter-plane-like single-seater (seen in "[[Dinobot Island, Part 1]]"), to a side-by-side like a passenger jet.
*When Megatron is first shown setting down the Voltronic Galaxer in their moon base, Thundercracker is to his left, Starscream to his right. In the very next panning shot showing Cosmos' approach through the window, Thundercracker is to Megatron's right.
*"This your idea of a joke?" Blaster's line lacks the usual processing.
*Red Alert's "horns" flash orange. Last time, they flashed blue.
*Despite knowing about the pending aerial attack, Red Alert keeps shooting at the trees. It seems likely that the animators recycled previous footage, perhaps not realizing he should be aiming skyward.
*Whatever damage Powerglide sustained from Ramjet pretty much disappears after Spike puts the jetpack on him.
*Blaster first pushes his left-most button. Later, it's the middle two that are deployed. After Megatron kicks him, all but one are engaged.
[[File:Omegasupreme astrotrain.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|Pretty damn big, that's how much.]]
*The whole sequence of Megatron discovering Blaster's subterfuge is a bit wonky. Blaster sniggers loudly, Megatron suddenly says "What was that?", then there's a beep and the rock music is heard. The animators/sound guys seem to have not quite gotten the sequence of events down correctly.
*When Spike cheers on Omega Supreme, both his lips ''and'' Carly's are moving.
*When Astrotrain rams Omega Supreme's leg, Omega holds still for two seconds, then drops Megatron.
*If Astrotrain is big enough to hold all the Decepticons, then how big does that make Omega Supreme in the picture to the right here?
*One gun, many lasers:
**When Optimus fires at the fleeing Megatron, he only has one gun, yet four or five lasers streak past Megatron.
*Blaster has four small switches on his chest for most of the episode (clearly seen as when Megatron kicks him towards the end), but is drawn with three large ones after Prime frees him.
*At the end of the episode, Blaster seemingly is supposed to be playing his rock tune yet again, complete with Prime yelling at him for it and the other Autobots chasing Blaster off into the sunset... but the music is missing. Oops!

===Continuity errors===
[[File:Blasterbluesonthemoon.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|"No no, it is totally worth risking the complete failure of the plan to have gloating rights over a couple of guys whose names I probably can't remember!"]]
[[File:BlasterBlues Carly Spike in spacesuits.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1]]
*You have to wonder if Megatron thought out all the parts to this plan, given that it would be a lot easier for human society to adapt to life without radio, than life without electricity, petroleum and fossil fuels, and so on... Actually, how would we ''use'' said radio waves, without the power resources the 'Cons would strip out of the planet in exchange for ceasing their jamming?
*Furthermore, one might question the wisdom of leaving two conscious Autobots right across from the critical device... with one of them ''fully armed''. The episode's teleplay explains this a bit better: in it, Cosmos is not treated so dismissively by Megatron, who needs his "magnificent super-sonic engines" to power the transmitter, and at the episode's climax, Cosmos was not supposed to ''shoot'' the transmitter, but rather, exploit his function as a power source to help Blaster overload the machine. Still, there doesn't appear to be any good reason they couldn't have done this a ''lot'' sooner.
*In a world full of Transformers running around on the evening news (and showing up in arcades, research labs, dams, power plants, and basically everywhere), why would a scientist still speak of alien life as though it were some unproved hypothesis?
*One of the journalists in the crowd that's listening to Prof. Haley explain the voltronic galaxer has a portion of the speech ("...enabling alien life to translate them to their own language.") already written on his notepad before the professor even finishes speaking that line.
[[File:BlasterBlues Megatron voltronic galaxer.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|Don't worry, this won't hurt a bit!]]
*In a rare instance of a falling human seeming to incur some actual injury, Professor Haley is apparently knocked unconscious by falling off the Voltronic Galaxer. Of course, he's up and (literally) running by the time the Autobots arrive (and still hanging out inside the burning building, apparently).
*The joy of size changing: Blaster rides inside Cosmos to the Moon, and in the next scene Cosmos and Blaster are side by side and Blaster is almost twice as tall as Cosmos. Cosmos's improbably large interior has just enough for Blaster to sit inside of. "[[Sea Change]]" and "[[Quest for Survival]]" will portray it as even larger, with room for multiple passengers to walk around.
*The passenger jets at the airport are shown swerving and maneuvering as though they were small-scaled fighters.
*Maybe Astrotrain's alternate mode ''does'' make sense in the bizarre world of cartoon Earth... because the railroad workers are trying to clear the track for a ''steam locomotive''.
*One of the railroad men says he will "radio [the train] to the auxiliary track", but no other track is actually shown.
*Only one guy leaps clear of the steam engine. Where's the fireman?
*Okay, so it's great that Optimus is directing traffic at this one airport, but... what about the hundreds of other airports out there? Much like "[[The Ultimate Doom, Part 2]]", the Autobots seem to lack a plan to deal with the actual ''cause'' of the problems.
*If Carly can trace the source of Megatron's transmissions, she really didn't need to wait until they heard Blaster's music.
*If Powerglide's [[jet pack]] is ''out of fuel'', then ''how does he keep flying??''
*Ratchet's team was mostly in [[robot mode]] when they were buried. They emerge from the snow in vehicle mode. Also, all the buried and exploded cars have vanished.
*Does Omega Supreme just keep some human-sized space suits handy? 'Cause Spike and Carly suddenly pop up in space suits when it's time to go to the Moon.

===A loony lunar lineup of astronomical errors===
*As with every other outer space episode in the series, Cosmos, Astrotrain, and all the rest get full sound effects in outer space and on the Moon's surface. Of course, media of far higher caliber than ''The Transformers'' have made the same error, generally because it'd be pretty boring to watch a bunch of silent ships fly around, so we'll let this one slide.
*The depicted activities of any Transformer on the Moon do not bear any resemblance to the movements of creatures under gravity one-sixth that of Earth's own.
*Cosmos really shouldn't have to switch off his engines once he reaches the Moon; he should have just switched them off as soon as he escaped Earth's gravity well.
*Blaster somehow manages to ''listen'' in on the Decepticons across the airless surface of the Moon.
*The burning [[Decepticon lunar dome base]] continues burning and trailing smoke as if it were in an atmosphere.
*Carly: "I've never been to the Moon before!" NO. REALLY??

===Trivia===
*Throughout the script, '''Trailbreaker''' is referred to as '''Trailblazer''', a name which popped up during "[[A Prime Problem]]".
*Seriously. "I've never been to the Moon before!"

===Foreign localization===

'''Italian'''
:*''Title (dub 1):'' "'''Linee di raggruppamento'''" ("Meeting up Lines")
:*''Title (dub 2):'' "'''Il Blues di Blaster'''" ("The Blues of Blaster")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Broadcast Blues'''" (ブロードキャスト・ブルース)
:*''Original airdate:'' [[June 27]], [[1986]]

'''Mandarin'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Lándiào Lùyīnjī '''" (蓝调录音机, "Blues Recorder")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;{{w|LaserDisc}}
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1995 — ''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' — Megatron Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1999 — ''The Transformers'' — Decepticon Edition ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2001 — ''The Transformers'' — DVD Box 2 (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2002 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1 ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2002 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1: Vol. 4 (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2003 — ''Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Collection 2: Series 2.1 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of Italy.png|20px|Italy]] 2008 — ''Transformers'' — Volume 04: Stagione Due Parte Seconda ([[Medianetwork Communication]]) — English and Italian audio. 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2009 — ''Transformers'' — Season Two: Part One (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Season Two, Volume One: 25th Anniversary Edition ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2011 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Original Series (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''The Transformers'' — Season Two, Volume One: 30th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2014 — ''Transformers'' — The Classic Animated Series (Metrodome)

==External links==
*[http://cybertronchronicle.freewebspace.com/cartoon-dossier/season-2/synopses/700-38.html Episode Dossier at The Cybertron Chronicle]
*[https://drive.google.com/open?id=1ejkyTnCMd_UU_fOkGya-JqrXAOJXRUQw Digital restoration of first draft script, originally submitted 13th March 1985]
*[https://drive.google.com/open?id=155SvBA7NOPYzRivn6VOt0lqIUrwZTjv0 Full episode script, as revised by Ron Friedman 18th March 1985]

[[Category:The Transformers episodes]]
[[Category:Generation 2 episodes]]

Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 1

2020-04-25T19:59:21Z

RQ87-D2: /* Kid Rhino release */

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

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

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

[[File:G1 Grimlock Megs bite.JPG|left|upright=1.1|thumb|Me Grimlock want to munch Megatron!]]

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

[[File:DesertionDinobots1 Rumble Megs.JPG|right|upright=1.1|thumb|What is it, little buddy? Are you lost? Timmy fell down the well?]]

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

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

[[File:DesertionDinobots1 Autobots tired.JPG|left|upright=1.1|thumb|Cybertonium chairs seemed like a good idea at the time, but now...]]

Back at the base, the Autobots are suffering power failures now, as well as other problems (Wheeljack can't move, [[Jazz (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Jazz]]'s legs are stuck in [[alternate mode]], and [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] is holding his own severed head!). [[Perceptor (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Perceptor]] concludes that they are suffering from [[Cybertonium]] depletion. However, Cybertonium only exists on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. Fortunately, [[Shockwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Shockwave]] is sending a shipment over the [[space bridge]], but the Autobots are in no condition to retrieve it themselves. Sparkplug, Spike, and Carly decide to track down the Dinobots.

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

[[File:DesertionDinobots1 car fly.JPG|right|upright=1.1|thumb|WHEEEEE!]]

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

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

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

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

|c3=
*[[Greene]] (5)
*[[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike Witwicky]] (12)
*[[Carly]] (14)
*[[Sparkplug Witwicky]] (15)
}}

==Quotes==
"I'll be through in no time!" 
"You're through NOW, Megatron!"
:—'''Megatron''', surprised by '''Optimus''' while piercing through a vault.

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

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

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

"It's the Aurobrroughs... THE AURRROOBBRRURURRUGHRRR!!!!" 
"Too bad! He's blown his vocal components. I guess that makes me the new leader!"
:— with '''Megatron''' suffering the effects of Cybertonium depletion, '''Starscream''' makes his most ridiculous bid for leadership to date

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

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

[[File:DesertionDinobots1 Shockwave Dinobots.JPG|right|upright=0.85|thumb|You Shockwave not so tough without black sticky stuff.]]
"Stowaways?! Stand back!" 
"WE NO STAND BACK!"
:—'''Shockwave''' and '''Grimlock''', right before the Dinobots kick Shockwave's [[diode]]s.

==Notes==
===Production information===
* First draft script: 25th February 1985

===Continuity notes===
*This episode throws some confusion on the origin of the newer second-season characters such as Perceptor, Blaster, Blitzwing, etc. Previously it could be assumed they had simply arrived from Cybertron or some other planet. But the fact that their Cybertonium deteriorates in exact sync with the earlier characters suggests that they were also aboard the Ark and went through the same four million year slumber as the 1984 characters. Why we didn't see any of them for the first year is therefore a bit of a mystery within the context of the stories.
*The Dinobots' discontent was previously hinted at in "[[Atlantis, Arise!]]" and "[[Day of the Machines]]". They seemed much happier in the later two-parter "[[Dinobot Island, Part 1|Dinobot Island]]".
*Apparently the Dinobots just stand around in their own little cubby hole in the Ark, waiting patiently for someone to open the door and talk to them. This is strangely placid of them, but well-established by the time of this episode.
[[File:Dotd1 malfunctioning ironhide.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|You've got the touch!]]
[[File:DesertionDinobots1 Powerglide no head.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|Some parts are made to detach if excessive force is applied.]]
[[File:G1Cartoon37 Generic.jpg|right|thumb|upright=1.1|A [[generic]] Transformer from Mirage's flashback. Perhaps one of his [[Mirage's friends|friends]]?]]
*Gadgets and powers:
**To prepare the viewer for the forthcoming mechanical failures of the Autobots, several of them use their stock powers, such as Jazz's [[sound and light show]] and Mirage's invisibility.
**To inspect the vault door, Soundwave retracts his hand and brings forth a three-pronged wirey sensor thing. It's only [[Soundwave (ROTF)|slightly creepy]].
**Carly switches off Bumblebee's equilibrium circuits by pressing a button inside his chest armor (which sure pops open easily. Bee had better hope the Decepticons don't find out about that feature.)
**Bumblebee uses a wrist communicator to radio Optimus. Though a common device for both sides, this one looks different than the more rectangular ones Bumblebee has used in the past—spheroid and with a little antenna on top.
**Inferno fires [[fire-retardant foam]] (or something like it) from a nozzle that emerges from a hatch on his cab (even though Inferno already sports several ''visible'' nozzles designed to serve the same purpose.)
**The deterioration of the Transformers' [[cybertonium]] leads to a series of mechanical failures:
***Grapple loses his fine motor control.
***Soundwave spontaneously ejects Ravage.
***The Decepticons lose their flight abilities.
***Rumble can't stop himself from attacking Megatron with his piledrivers.
***Jazz can't transform, requiring a kick from Ironhide to do so.
***Megatron's vocal components malfunction.
***Starscream cannot stay airborne in plane mode.
***Ironhide's hand won't retract to fire his liquid nitrogen.
***Mirage only becomes black and white instead of invisible.
***Ravage unwillingly transforms back into cassette mode mid-battle.
***Jazz's sound and light show is reduced to a quiet static white noise.
***Blitzwing can't stop his own forward motion in tank mode.
***Wheeljack's joints are non-functional, rendering him immobile.
***Optimus Prime is very weak, barely able to stand.
***Perceptor is trapped in his microscope mode, with his arms being the only moving limbs.
***Jazz winds up with his legs stuck in car mode.
***Powerglide's head... falls off??
*The Constructicons appear to be functioning perfectly well in this episode. What this says about their origin controversy is unknown.
*The effect used for the vortex of [[transwarp|interdimensional space]] as the Dinobots travel to Cybertron is nigh-identical to the time warps from [[Dinobot Island, Part 1|"Dinobot Island" Parts 1]] [[Dinobot Island, Part 2|and 2]]—a glowing green central light surrounding by swirling blue and purple energy punctuated with flashes of white light.
*We get treated to the one-time appearance of a uniquely designed Transformer on Cybertron. He's medium brown and appears to have Snarl's dinosaur tail halves on his back; he transforms to a purple flying saucer-like thing.
[[File:ShockwaveDesertionOfTheDinobots1.jpg|right|upright=1.1|thumb|It is not logical to not have a blaster when you turn into that model of blaster.]]
*In the final scene, Shockwave fires a gun that looks exactly like his own [[alternate mode]]. This may be a distorted reference to his bio from the show's [[production bible]], which states that he can create duplicates of himself. Given that he's also shown with two hands at one point, however, this may more likely be a stroke of stupidity on the part of the animators.
*This episode establishes that the Dinobots are better-armored in their [[beast mode]]s.
*'''[[Dinobot Island, Part 2|< <]]''' What makes Starscream the leader? Megatron's blown his vocal components! '''[[Triple Takeover|> >]]'''

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

===Animation or technical errors===
*Despite the variety of engine sound effects, the experimental plane is just flying in a straight line in the first shot.
*Coloring errors:
**Blaster's forehead is red (like the rest of his helmet) instead of white as Optimus gives the order to [[roll out]].
**Starscream's face is white instead of medium gray as he enters the lab facility.
**Slag's face and head are gray instead of red as he says his "no like anything" line.
**The top of Starscream's cockpit cowling is yellow instead of gray as he scolds Megatron for retreating.
**Blitzwing's head is purple instead of yellow just before he transforms to attack Bumblebee.
***And again after he falls out of the sky.
****And again as Soundwave ejects Ravage at the power plant.
*****And ''again'' as the Decepticons try to retreat from the power plant. Was this an alternate color scheme or something?
**Thundercracker is miscolored as Starscream when Swoop attacks him.
**Slag's head guards are white instead of red as he agrees with Grimlock's refusal of orders. (Should they be white? Yes, yes, no!)
**The energon cubes at the power plant are semi-glowing in a strange purple color, rather than the usual bright pink.
**Jazz is colored as Red Alert when the other Autobots transform at the power station.
**Megatron's gun mode is entirely white when Starscream is about to shoot Optimus.
**Red Alert has white tires on his shoulders in the first pan of the disabled Autobots at Autobot Headquarters.
**As Wheeljack says that Cybertonium is only found on Cybertron, his whole helmet is light gray instead of dark gray, rather than just his three "fins".
*Mirage's transformation is somewhat "cheated", as he simply melds into car mode instead of turning around at the waist like he is supposed to.
*Superhuman humans:
**The scientist that Starscream tosses aside gets up and runs away, despite having been ''thrown'' a good 15 or 20 feet to the floor.
*Blaster's arm phases through Mirage's box-of-turning-invisible. While not physically impossible, he appears to be standing far enough in front of Mirage that the box should be behind him.
*After grabbing Megatron's cannon, Mirage reappears without his customary energy sound effect.
*The merry-go-round at the fair features horses that are suspended from the roof, rather than attached to floor-to-ceiling posts like a real carousel.
*The outside of the airport, where Bumblebee discharges his passengers and transforms, is ''completely deserted''. They seem to have wandered into the loading docks or something.
*Snarl appears to tear the entire hangar door apart, but after he moves past the "camera", we see that half the door is still intact.
*As Slag tears though the hangar door, by rights his hind end should be visible through the hole Snarl just made, but it only magically becomes visible as he walks through the hole he made.
*Megatron's audio appears to drop out for a second or two as he tosses Rumble aside; he says "Get... ...fool!" with timing that would be just right for the more explicable "Get off me, fool!"
*Spike and Sparkplug have teeny tiny pupils throughout this episode.
*Spike, Carly and Sparkplug are inside the terminal when Megatron gets thrown into it. A second later, they're back on the flightline with the Dinobots.
*The sound crew missed the part where Hoist is ''towing'' the derelict airliner carrying the Dinobots; they applied what sounds like an idling jet engine noise over the scene.
*The building that Powerglide and Ironhide construct changes shape between shots, and doesn't appear to have any doors or windows. There's also a parked airplane practically on top of the foundation before they start laying bricks. Ironhide's method of brick-laying fails to put any mortar into the vertical brick joints. The bricks also go from regular bricks to concrete blocks between shots.
*Megatron's Decepticon symbol is missing after he bashes Rumble aside in the desert.
*Prime clips through the concrete fence at the power plant as the Autobots arrive to stop the Decepticons.
[[File:Dotd1 sparkplug repairs wheeljack.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|Just one little vertical line. Supposed to be over there on the right.]]
*Wheeljack is missing the little windshield line on the top/side of his chest as Prime answers Ironhide's question about what is happening to them. It's missing again as Sparkplug repairs him in the next scene.
*Scrapper's vehicle mode ''bends'' like rubber as he backs away from the Dinobots.
*Scrapper has two eyes instead of his usual single visor as he turns to track Swoop.
*Long Haul's portion of Devastator is shown plopping into place... long after both he and Hook (who forms the part that comes ''after'' Long Haul) have already driven up and transformed.
*When the Dinobots first appear on Cybertron, Shockwave has both his hands. In the next scene, however, his left hand blaster is there. He was last seen with two hands back in "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]".
*Improbable viewpoints:
**Teletraan I kindly provides Sparkplug with a view of Grimlock ''inside [[Decepticon Headquarters (G1 Cybertron)|Decepticon Headquarters]] on Cybertron''!
*So... the sound guys have never seen a car before? They don't know what a car does? 'Cause they put in a flight sound effect as Carly's car vaults over Devastator's foot and into the space bridge ring.
*The animation of Shockwave reacting to and turning toward the space bridge elevator is recycled when Spike and Carly arrive. Not an explicit error by itself, but it creates a continuity disjoint with the next shot, as Shockwave abruptly goes from empty-handed to holding a blaster.
*There's nothing in the space bridge elevator when Shockwave blasts it.

===Continuity errors===
[[File:Dotd1 sneakiest soundwave.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|Seriously, Blaster doesn't recognize this guy by now?]]
[[File:DesertionDinos1 BlastergrabsRavage.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|And yet he doesn't seem surprised at all when this happens.]]
*The opening scene is bizarre. Soundwave is sitting in Ironhide's cargo compartment. Ironhide somehow failed to notice Soundwave climbing into him, and continues to fail to notice him sitting there. Blaster somehow fails to notice Soundwave sitting ''right in front of him''. Of particular note, in "[[Heavy Metal War]]" Ironhide is apparently able to detect the Decepticons by himself, without relying on Teletraan I.
*Considering the ultra plane was in full view of the Autobots and Dr. Green the whole time, how did none of them see Starscream flying over the fighter and dropping a bomb on top of it?
*We never do find out where Sparkplug is coming home from or what he was doing there in his snazzy blue suit.
*Bumblebee and Spike apparently just wander onto the airport's flightline, unquestioned, to investigate the Decepticon hangar.
*Apparently, nobody who works at the airport ever goes into the "HANGAR" hangar, or even so much as looks in the door. And while they weren't noticing the "military jets" coming and going, they also weren't noticing Megatron or Soundwave coming and going.
*Superhumans Spike, Carly, and Sparkplug:
**Neither Spike nor Carly and Sparkplug are harmed by Megatron flying through a huge plate glass window right in front of them. (As noted above, they shouldn't even be there.)
*On a related note, though Bumblebee and the three humans are standing right next to the Dinobots, none of them are harmed by the planes exploding, while the Dinobots get blown to kingdom come.
*The Autobots lament having to repair the Dinobots using only tools available to them on Earth, despite having easily built them on Earth with those same tools.
*For some reason, Blitzwing blasting Jazz in the side causes a huge crevasse to open up beneath Jazz.
*The space bridge must have been seriously fine-tuned since its first appearance. The Dinobots make the trip just fine, despite appearing to flail about randomly as they make the trip. Even an Earthly automobile makes it through (and its human passengers survive, which means the space bridge portal has a pressurized atmosphere). Previously, an unpiloted test vehicle vanished into the ether because it lacked guidance.
*Shockwave blasts the elevator door as Spike and Carly arrive on Cybertron, creating a huge explosion. They are only saved by power of retcon, as the next episode decides that the immediate firing and huge explosion simply didn't happen.
*Why exactly was Devastator just standing guard at the Space Bridge which was still clearly full of rocks instead of the Constructicons trying to clear it?

===Kid Rhino release===
*On the [[Rhino Entertainment|Kid Rhino]] DVDs, the visuals drop out completely for a second or so, replaced by a black screen, after Blaster's fight with Ravage. This error is also on the Madman Region 4 and Metrodome region 2 DVDs.

===Trivia===
*The hangar that the Decepticons are hiding in is labeled "hangar" in huge white letters. This is so you know that it is, indeed, a hangar and not a [[Temporary Decepticon base|well hidden Decepticon base]].
*Mirage totally goes toe-to-toe with Megatron and manages to hold his own for a bit. Impressive!
*Slag sounds strangely ''upbeat'' when he says "Me Slag no like anything." It seems more that he's trying to one-up the other Dinobots than that he actually means it.
*When the Dinobots leave the Autobot base, Sludge and Snarl appear much shorter than the others. If the Dinobots were at all consistent with the dinosaurs they are based on, Sludge should be much larger than the others (foreshortening perhaps?).

===Foreign localization===

'''Italian'''
:*''Title (dub 1):'' "'''I Dinorobots disertano-Parte 1'''" ("The Deserting Dinobots-Part 1")
:*''Title (dub 2):'' "'''La diserzione dei Dinobots - I'''" ("The Desertion of the Dinobots - I")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Dinobot no Tōbō PART I'''" (ダイノボットの逃亡 PART I, "Desertion of the Dinobots PART I")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[January 24]], [[1986]]

'''Mandarin'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Jīqì Kǒnglóng Kāi Xiǎochāi (Shàng)'''" (机器恐龙开小差(上), "The Desertion of the Dinobots Part 1")
:*''Original airdate:''

'''Portuguese'''
:*''Title:'' "'''A Deserção dos Dinobots Parte 1'''" ("The Desertion of the Dinobots Part 1")
:*''Original airdate:''

===Toys based on this episode===
*'''''[[The Transformers: Masterpiece]]'' MP-29 [[Shockwave (G1)/toys#Masterpiece|Destron Laserwave]] ([[TakaraTomy]], 2016)'''
* ''Masterpiece'' Destron Laserwave comes with a "Vulcan Laser" gun based on his own altmode, as seen in this episode's final scene.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;VHS
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1986 — ''The Transformers'' — Desertion of the Dinobots ([[Video Gems|A.M.T. Video Gems]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1986 — ''Transformers'' — Desertion of the Dinobots ([[Channel 5]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1988 — ''The Transformers'' — Desertion of the Dinobots ([[Video Gems|V.I.P. Video Gems]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1990 — ''Transformers'' — Desertion of the Dinobots 3-D (Channel 5) 
[[File:Flag of Canada.png|20px|Canada]] 1998 — ''The Transformers: Generation 2'' — Desertion of the Dinobots ([[Malofilm|Behaviour]])
;{{w|LaserDisc}}
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1994 — ''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' — Convoy Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1998 — ''The Transformers'' — Autobot Edition ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2001 — ''The Transformers'' — DVD Box 1 (Pioneer LDC) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2002 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1 ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2002 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1: Vol. 4 (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2003 — ''Transformers'' — Season 2 Part 1 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Collection 2: Series 2.1 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of Italy.png|20px|Italy]] 2008 — ''Transformers'' — Volume 04: Stagione Due Parte Seconda ([[Medianetwork Communication]]) — English and Italian audio. 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2009 — ''Transformers'' — Season Two: Part One (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Season Two, Volume One: 25th Anniversary Edition ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2011 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Original Series (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''The Transformers'' — Season Two, Volume One: 30th Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2014 — ''The Transformers'' — Roar of the Dinobots (Shout! Factory) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2014 — ''Transformers'' — The Classic Animated Series (Metrodome)

==External links==
*[http://cybertronchronicle.freewebspace.com/cartoon-dossier/season-2/synopses/700-36.html Episode Dossier at The Cybertron Chronicle]
*[https://drive.google.com/open?id=1_0b6F-es9cqPGdVkXDIzA7K8ZEhPpjiC Episode dialogue script with deleted lines]

[[Category:The Transformers episodes]]
[[Category:Generation 2 episodes]]

To sell toys

2015-11-20T21:30:44Z

RQ87-D2: /* Strange developments */

[[File:MarvelUS-19.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Hasbro wasn't quite sure whether to advertise this expensive toy until the fans forced their hand.]]
To understand ''Transformers'' fiction, it is important to understand that it exists '''to sell toys.''' [[Hasbro]] and [[TakaraTomy]] are toy companies, and they are primarily interested in continuing to sell [[toy]]s to children and adults. The cartoons, comic books, etc., mostly exist to make this happen. To be sure, they normally [[Transformers: Dark of the Moon (film)#Reception|make a profit in their own right]], but this is regarded as mere gravy.

The "to sell toys" effect often distorts the fiction in interesting ways. Primarily, since you can't ([[Army-building|usually]]) sell someone the same toy twice<ref>Although the toy lines from the [[live-action film series]] have given us multiple ''different'' toys of the ''same characters''.</ref>, Hasbro and Takara constantly introduce new toys, and often require the creators of the fiction to introduce the new characters into ongoing storylines. Older characters (whose toys are no longer being sold) are shoved aside to make room.

Another effect of "to sell toys" is when the toys have gimmicks which must be explained in the fiction. Sometimes ([[Mini-Con]]s) this is relatively easy, while other times it requires a lot of imagination on the part of the writers (the in-comic explanations for the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] and [[Targetmaster]]s are kinda wonky).

The UK [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)|movie-based ''Transformers'' comic]] took this to more blatant heights. For its first year, it had a specific four-page feature every week called ''Top Gear'', which exists solely to promote the newest Transformers merchandise. ''Any'' merchandise. This led to readers being told how great [[Optimash Prime]] was. For ''[[Transformers: War for Cybertron (franchise)|Transformers: War for Cybertron]]'', [[Ironhide (Movie)|''Ironhide himself'']] opened letters pages by telling readers how ''awesome'' the game was and how [[you]] should buy it.

{{bigquote|Truly, I'm speechless. Your species characterizes the infinite wonders of the churning, whorling, chaotic cosmos through the lens of... merchandising?

I can see why Swindle loves you idiots.|[[Sideways (disambiguation)|Sideways]] on the concept, [[Ask Vector Prime]].}}

==Casting==
===Huge casts===
[[File:CosmicRust-BigGroup.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|[[Pokeformers|Gotta catch 'em all!]]]]
Hasbro makes a lot of toys at once, and they generally want all of them to appear in their fiction. This can force writers to bring in vast numbers of characters all at once, sometimes with awkward results. Examples include:

*The first issue of the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Generation 1 comics]], "[[The Transformers (issue)|The Transformers]]", in which ''twenty-eight'' different robots appeared and introduced themselves, even though only a handful are important to the plot.
*"[[The Special Teams Have Arrived]]", a free mini-comic given away with issue [[Rock and Roll-Out!|#54]] of the [[Marvel Comics|Marvel UK]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel UK|comic]], notoriously introduces the reader to ''twenty-four'' new Transformers in just three pages. Granted, four of those are the [[Combiner|combined forms]] of the other twenty, but that's still a lot of new names to remember.
*The 1987 ''[[The Transformers: Headmasters|Headmasters]]'' Limited Series, which introduced over ''sixty'' characters in the course of four issues, including all the first waves of [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] and [[Targetmaster]]s, all their [[Nebulan]] partners, the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobots]], [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]], and [[Monsterbot]]s.
*The cartoon episode trilogy "[[The Rebirth]]" likewise abruptly introduced a deluge of the 1987 toyline characters, mostly the same ones seen in ''Headmasters''.
*In the first four episodes of [[Transformers: Robots in Disguise (2001 cartoon)|the 2001 ''Robots in Disguise'' cartoon]], eighteen characters are introduced in quick succession.
*From #9 onwards, [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)|Titan's movie-based ''Transformers'']] heavily bumped up the cast with new toys. In one example, #17 brought in nine new toys in eleven pages; only one of the five Decepticons got any real focus or dialogue.

===Random casting===
The Hasbro-induced need to show all the toys can also cause stories to suddenly focus on a new character, sometimes dropping ongoing plot threads about older ones. Examples include:

*Season 2 of the cartoon introduced many new characters/buyable toys with no explanation; despite never having been seen before, the story treats them as though they have [[Beachcomber (G1)|been there]] [[Perceptor (G1)|the whole]] [[Tracks (G1)|time]].
[[File:Decepticonpretenders-behold.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|After seven issues, it's finally time for these six dudes to do something!]]
[[File:FlamesofBoltax-Triggerbots.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Apparently, the Triggerbots didn't make much of an impression on Prime.]]
*The comic issue "[[Pretender to the Throne!]]" suddenly introduces a dozen Autobots and Decepticons that we've never met before, and follows their adventures. The story adds nothing to the long-range plot that couldn't have been accomplished by using existing characters; these teams were added to the mix to promote their new toys.
*Many issues of the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel comic]] had cover blurbs in the form "Introducing the _______!", where the blank was whatever the latest line of toys was. The following issues specifically introduce new toys on the cover: [[Repeat Performance!|#8]], [[The Next Best Thing to Being There!|#10]], [[Brainstorm!|#11]], [[Command Performances!|#19]], [[Aerialbots over America!|#21]], [[Crater Critters|#29]], [[The Cure!|#30]], [[Pretender to the Throne!|#40]], [[People Power!|#42]], [[Ca$h and Car-nage!|#46]], [[Club Con!|#47]], and [[Yesterday's Heroes!|#60]]. Throw in a few covers where new characters were pictured but not named, and that's 1/5th of the series.
*In [[Spacehikers!|issue #36]] of the Marvel comics, when [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] decides that he needs help in dealing with [[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]]'s inept leadership, he doesn't turn to any of the ''dozens'' of Autobots aboard the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]], which include two combiner teams and Omega Supreme. No, he has to call in his "old buddy"/new toy, [[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]].
*In the prelude to the [[Underbase Saga]], [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] and [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] were the lead characters in a story set before the Transformers came to [[Earth]]. But rather than palling around with the likes of Jazz or Prowl, they are instead shown alongside the newest "gimmick" characters, the [[Triggercon]]s and the [[Triggerbot]]s.
*[[Mainframe Entertainment]] planned to use [[Wolfang (Maximal)|Wolfang]] in ''Beast Wars'', but [[Tigatron]] appeared instead because he had an upcoming toy, and to save money as his CGI model was only a slight tweak of [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]]'s. <ref>[http://groups.google.com/group/alt.toys.transformers/browse_frm/thread/9c79c4226fc6dd28/30c3cdf158ea6e52?lnk=st&q=bob+forward+beast+wars+tigatron+wolfang&rnum=1#30c3cdf158ea6e52 Ben Yee relays some info from Bob Forward in regards to Wolfang being replaced by Tigatron in the Beast Wars cartoon]</ref>
*Rather than revealing stuff about the [[Vok]] and [[Tarantulas (BW)|Tarantulas]], a long-running subplot, "[[Other Victories]]" spends much of its time telling us how great [[Tigerhawk]] is and how we should buy his toy.
*The [[First (and Second) in Flight|sixth issue]] of ''[[Transformers Animated: The Arrival|The Arrival]]'' stops following the regular cast so it can flag the awesome cool out-now-in-shops [[Safeguard (Animated)|Safeguard]] toy.
*Prominent generals in [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)|Titan's movieverse]] Decepticon army change frequently and without any acknowledgment as new toys jostle for (and gain) space.
*[[Dark Cybertron (IDW)|Dark Cybertron]] and its lead-ins were packed with ''[[Thrilling 30]]'' toys, so suddenly ''Beast Wars'' characters [[Waspinator (BW)|Waspinator]] and [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] are in G1. Things got worse in later issues when [[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]] and [[Crosscut (Autobot)|Crosscut]] needed a comic; Tankor berates Starscream for a few panels in [[No Exit: Dark Cybertron Chapter 6|''Dark Cybertron'' #6]], while Crosscut and [[Swerve (G1)|Swerve]] briefly halt the plot in [[The Dead Are Not Enough: Dark Cybertron Chapter 7|''Dark Cybertron'' #7]] to tell you who Crosscut ''is''. Then he vanishes. They've started getting an increased role in IDW fiction ever since, though.

===Limited casting===
On the opposite side of things, Hasbro doesn't want to pay to depict characters that aren't selling toys. This can force a story, particularly an animated cartoon, to have a smaller cast than it otherwise might.

[[File:Metamorphdeceps2.JPG|upright=1.1|thumb|The full might of the Decepticon army.]]
*The early episodes of ''[[Transformers: Armada (cartoon)|Armada]]'' featured only the toys available on the shelves. This resulted in two ridiculously small teams going to [[Earth]] for the all-important mission of gathering Mini-Cons, rather inexplicable in story terms.
*[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Both the Dreamwave]] and [[Transformers: Armada (Panini)|Panini comics]] suffered exactly the same problem, but it gets worse: [[First Encounter|The first ''Armada'' episode]] reused models of older Transformers as [[generic]] background guys to bump numbers up. The comics ''didn't''. So Megatron apparently conquers all of planet Cybertron with an army of three guys, whereas the city/planet defending Autobots are just five blokes.
*Dreamwave would also [[Dreamwave Armada issue 10|feature a scene on Cybertron]], where the ''only'' Autobot who seemed to exist was [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]].
*For [[Transformers: Movie Prequel|the movie prequels]], IDW got around this by deciding that [[Dreadwing (Movie)|Dreadwing]] was going to be a [[Class Alpha drone unit|series of drones]] instead of one guy, allowing for really big battle scenes despite a then-limited number of toys. (It would later turn out there was ''also'' a Dreadwing who was one guy.) Titan Magazines would borrow this, and turn other Decepticons into drone series too.
* It seems unlikely that four bots and their human partners would be sufficient to handle every emergency on [[Griffin Rock]], but those four bots [[Transformers: Rescue Bots (toyline)|were the only ones on shelves at the time]] (other than [[Optimus Prime (WFC)|Optimus]] and [[Bumblebee (WFC)|Bumblebee]], who were needed [[Transformers: Prime (cartoon)|elsewhere]]), so they were the ones who went into [[Transformers: Rescue Bots (cartoon)|the show]]. As the toyline expanded, toy characters Blurr, Salvage, and High Tide were introduced into the cast.
{{-}}

==Plot==
===Forced explication===
{{main|Introdump}}

Rather than simply showing up in the background, new toy/characters often overtly introduce themselves, often with a ridiculous description of their special abilities. The Marvel comic is rife with examples, but it shows up across numerous fictions.

[[File:Introdump decepticons marvelus01.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Reflector is actually here, he's just buried underneath a pile of speech bubbles.]]
*Again, [[The Transformers (issue)|''Transformers'' #1]] has two huge splash pages in which 28 characters do nothing but stand around and tell each other who they are and what they can do.
*The two-part Generation 1 cartoon episode "[[Dinobot Island, Part 1|Dinobot Island]]" features many new 1985 characters getting their own short little introductory scene, often with a characteristic bit of self-description ([[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]]: "I'd rather stay in my stunning auto mode!" [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]: "I'm ''always'' ready for action!" [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]]: "Wow, like, I hope we don't destroy this place before we can study it!")
*"[[The Rebirth]]" has ''three different sequences'' in which large new groups of characters form a lineup and introduce themselves to viewers one after another. Strangely enough, much of this screen- and dialogue-time is given over to Nebulan partners; the "main" Transformer characters get no such introductions, even though they are the items kids would have to purchase to acquire the Nebulan accessories. For instance, [[Spasma]], [[Monzo]], and [[Peacemaker]] (all speaking characters) are introduced by name as part of various lineups, but their in-store hosts [[Apeface]], [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]], and [[Pointblank (G1)|Pointblank]] are never named (and Weirdwolf never even speaks).
*"[[Beast Wars (Part 1)]]" has the Maximals walk on one-by-one admiring their [[beast mode]]s, loudly explaining their names and showing character traits. This also gives the impression they deliberately changed their names to fit these new beast modes for no apparent reason.
*Crosscut and Swerve fill in Crosscut's backstory and job during a fight. That's all Crosscut does in [[The Dead Are Not Enough: Dark Cybertron Chapter 7|''Dark Cybertron'' #7]].

===Gimmicks===
When the toys can do something special, fiction writers must often go out of their way to show the gimmick in action.

*The Headmaster gimmick got [[The Transformers: Headmasters|an entire Limited Series comic book]] devoted to it.
*The comic issue "[[Pretender to the Throne!]]" features [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] proudly creating the [[Pretender]]s, gloating that they will hide the Decepticons' identities from the Autobots "until it is too late". Not only does the plan not actually work, it's also a plot point with absolutely zero lead-in or build-up—at no point has Scorponok ever expressed concern about his troops being detected by the Autobots, and we've never even met the Pretender characters before. It was brought about solely because the new toys had to be jammed into the story. (The, uh, story of returning Optimus Prime's character to the comic book because he had [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#PMOP|a new toy]].)
*[[Rotor Force]] made their debut in "[[New Dawn]]", and both here and in subsequent ''Generation 2'' issues would primarily fight enemies not with guns like everyone else, but by firing their giant rotors at them. Page 3 of ''New Dawn'' actually shows them having to ''stop and reattach their rotors'' before they can carry on fighting.
[[File:Mistaken Identity Galvatronscourge.jpg|upright=1.4|thumb|[[Johnny Yong Bosch|It's Morphin Time! MASTODON!]]]]
*The [[Transformers: Robots in Disguise (2001 franchise)|2001 ''Robots in Disguise'' franchise]] [[Megatron (RID)|Megatron]] had six alternate modes and [[Transformers: Robots in Disguise (2001 cartoon)|the cartoon]] really wanted you to see them, which is why [[Battle Protocol!|his first appearance]] is as ''a giant hand for no reason''. It gets sillier when he turns into Galvatron and gains four more modes. In "[[Mistaken Identity]]", he turns into his "Iron Mammoth" form when facing off against [[Fortress Maximus (RID)|a hostile Fortress Maximus]] even though he doesn't ''do'' anything in his form except stand there ''as he was already doing''.
*[[Jetstorm (Animated)|Jetstorm]] and [[Jetfire (Animated)|Jetfire]] are the only Autobot jets in the ''Animated'' line. (Not counting the toyless [[Omega Supreme (Animated)|Omega Supreme]].) To fully big this up, their origin story has it that there have ''never been'' any flying Autobots before, despite them having been in (and won) a long and bitter war with enemies who ''often fly''.

The [[Unicron Trilogy]], noted for its gimmicks in all three toylines, was particularly notorious in this regard:

*The quest for power-enhancing [[Mini-Con]]s practically defined the plot of the ''[[Transformers: Armada (cartoon)|Armada]]'' cartoon, with both factions out to recruit or capture all the Mini-Cons.
*[[Powerlinx]]ing is shown again and again and again in ''[[Transformers: Energon (cartoon)|Energon]]'', despite having comparatively little relevance to most episode plotlines. In fact, due to the fact much of Energon's action was firefights, Powerlinxing seemed to be a disadvantage, since it resulted in a single larger Autobot shooting instead of two smaller ones.
*[[Cyber Key]] powerups are likewise shown repeatedly in ''[[Transformers: Cybertron (cartoon)|Cybertron]].'' In this case, while most characters had basic weapons, the Cyber Keys were necessary to unlock hidden weaponry or special techniques. So, for example, Optimus might be able to shoot at the Decepticons with a smaller firearm, but to fire his larger cannons he would need to summon his Cyber Key. Some characters, however, needed their Cyber Keys to activate what one would expect to be their main weapons (e.g. Starscream activating his Null Ray Cannon).
*All three series were also marked by lengthy transformation sequences which highlighted the gimmicks in very toy-accurate animation (and also made production cheaper, thanks to [[Stock footage|recycled footage]]).

===Strange developments===
Shoehorning loads of new characters with new powers can compel the writers to do things with the plot that, in all probability, they otherwise wouldn't.

*Marvel UK had to promote the [[Special Teams]] toys ''before'' they knew how they'd be appearing in the US reprints. To get around this, [[Simon Furman]] wrote a story arc titled "[[Second Generation!]]", where [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]], Optimus and Shockwave <s>watched an advert</s> saw a Matrix-induced vision of the Special Teams in action. These events were previewed in "The Special Teams Have Arrived", nine issues earlier, with no indication that they were part of a vision, making their place in continuity uncertain.
*In the US Marvel comics, the simultaneous introduction of the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]] and [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]] and the introduction of the Pretenders both saw a lot of rigamarole involved in explaining why both the Autobots and the Decepticons had new members with identical numbers/gimmicks at the same time.
*Season 3 of the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|original ''The Transformers'' cartoon]] almost completely ignored the characters of the previous two seasons that were no longer on toy shelves. The 1985 Autobot cars, for example, are not seen at all. [[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]] and the 1985 Mini-Vehicles, by contrast, show up now and again, as their toys were still shipping. Even Starscream, who was ''dead'', managed to get a couple of Season 3 episodes all to himself; again, his toy sold through 1986.
*''[[Transformers: The Headmasters (cartoon)|The Headmasters]]'' was absolutely crazy about this. [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus]] (whose toy was long gone) kicks the bucket only three episodes in for the sake of a sacrifice that would be nullified only a few episodes later, putting new(er) toy [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Rodimus Prime]] back in the command chair for a short while. In the tenth episode, Rodimus departs the series and hands the title of Supreme Commander to brand-spanking-new toy [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]], who's had a few months, tops, of combat experience. Much like Season 3, ''Headmasters'' also ignored most of the Season 3 regulars ([[Springer (G1)|Springer]], [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]], the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobot]]s, the [[Quintesson]]s) or removed them altogether, sometimes fairly dubiously ([[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] and [[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]] leave with Rodimus, [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ultra Magnus]] gets shot a bit and dies, [[Galvatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Galvatron]] is buried in ice and nobody digs him up until ''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: The Battlestars (story page)|Battlestars]]''). By the end of the series, the only remaining Autobots from the first three seasons were the [[Special Teams]], [[Blaster (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Twincast]] and his cassettes, [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]], [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]], and [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]].
*[[Transformers Comic-Magazin issue 2|''Transformers Comic-Magazin'' #2]] wrote an entire story devoted to Optimus sternly explaining which Autobots and Decepticons were on sale in [[Germany]] in 1989. The reason he had to? [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] had ''shot an Autobot''!
*The first thirteen issues of the ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' comic were focused around the Mini-Cons, with plots often revolving around their desire to be seen as equals and not be enslaved. Then without ''any'' prior set-up, the last five issues turn into a dimension-spanning battle against [[Unicron]]—who had just had a new and expensive toy.
[[File:Samprowl.jpg|100px|thumb|<s>Upgrades are bad.</s> Upgrades are GOOD. We have always been at war with <s>Eurasia</s> Eastasia.]]
*"[[A Fistful of Energon]]" has [[Prowl (Animated)|Prowl]] learn not to use upgrades, and he gives up using powerful samurai armour. But whoops, Hasbro thought "hey, we could make a toy out of that armour"! And so in [[Five Servos of Doom|a later episode]], Prowl ''regains'' it and the show hurriedly claims that the upgrade is fine ''now'' because Prowl realizes now that it's the Autobot, not the upgrade.
*The [[France|French]] decided to be good sports and start using propeller-driven nuclear bombers again in [[All Hail Megatron issue 11|''All Hail Megatron'' #11]], just so [[Octane|Tankor]] could be used.
*[[Ransack (ROTF)|Ransack]] has been on Earth for a while, in hiding from other Decepticons while he waits for orders from [[the Fallen]] in "[[Transformers Comic issue 2.7|Turnabout]]". Ransack is a member of a race that can scan any object and take its form as a disguise. Ransack moves around in the cunning disguise of ''a 100-year-old plane''. (At least, unlike the previous example, the oldness of the alt mode was pointed out.)
*In Titan's ''Revenge of the Fallen'' comic, [[Skids (ROTF)|Skids]] and [[Mudflap (ROTF)|Mudflap]] go from being [[Bumblebee (Movie)|Bumblebee's]] responsibility to bugging [[Ironhide (Movie)|Ironhide]] to being [[Sideswipe (Movie)|Sideswipe's]] responsibility in the space of three issues, all to allow each issue to focus on a specific toy-bearing movie star. Similarly, only one or two Decepticons per issue are sent on a mission, when presumably the Fallen might want to send loads of guys to silence the twins.
*In ''Dark of the Moon'', nearly all of the transformers switch from built-in weaponry to handheld weaponry. It just so happens that the gimmick of the ''Dark of the Moon'' toys was that they had "MechTech" weapons that could be held by any other figure.
*The new rebrand for the Generations line for 2015 and beyond is ''[[Combiner Wars]]'', hence IDW's tie-in comic has to introduce a heapload of combiners in a universe that regarded combination as a lost art with unpredictable side-effects. (Devastator, Menasor, Superion, and Monstructor were around, but they had their own explanations.) Enter the [[Enigma of Combination]], an artifact of Nexus Prime with the power to merge any Transformers into a combiner. Not only is this artifact used on Superion, Menasor, and Defensor, it is also used on Optimus Prime and other selected Autobots to create [[Optimus Maximus (G1)|Optimus Maximus]]. The fact that Optimus had two Combiner Wars toys (one released, one upcoming) might have influenced this decision.
*Also, the big toy of 2015 is a Titan-class Devastator... in his classic configuration instead of IDW's newly introduced 'Prowlastator' form. Unfortunately, Scrapper has been long dead and hence is unable to take his spot as the combiner's leg. However, IDW has another bulldozer-bot conveniently lying around - [[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]]. Naturally, he is merged with the other Constructicons by the aforementioned Enigma, restoring Devastator's classic silhouette.
*Prior to ''Combiner Wars'', the comic had dropped hints that forming Devastator was taking a heavy toll on Prowl's mind and body, and his unconscious references to "Scrapper" seemed to hint at something greater going on in his psyche. Come ''Combiner Wars'', "Prowlastator" was quickly written out, leaving this plot thread dangling.
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===Awkward continuity===
[[File:Earthforce.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|This happened... er.... look just buy the toys, ok?!]]
Sometimes the requirement to feature new toys can be so strong that continuity takes a major backseat and stories are produced that feature combinations of characters that make the story very difficult to slot into the main continuity. The Marvel UK comic was especially prone to this as it could not always foresee where, when and how characters would be introduced:

*The ''[[Transformers Annual 1986]]'' contains many stories featuring toys from the 1985 release long before they were formally introduced in the regular comic, often interacting with other characters who would be out of action by then. As a result few of the stories easily fit the continuity of the weekly comic.
*The demands of Hasbro UK for the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] and [[Targetmaster]]s to be featured heavily even before the US ''[[The Transformers: Headmasters|Headmasters]]'' mini-series was available meant that both the ''[[Transformers Annual 1988]]'' and the regular strip "[[Worlds Apart!]]" contain a slightly different set of events that are at odds with the mini-series.
*The requirement to give prominence to the rereleased toys in the [[Classics (Europe)|Classics]] range resulted in one of the biggest continuity trainwrecks of all, [[Earthforce]]. Over two decades later fans are still uncertain where it fits in continuity, and even [[Simon Furman]] admits to being unsure.<ref>"Looking back, as I try my hardest not to do, it's very hard to tie the Earthforce stories into a specific time frame (in terms of the US continuity), because (if I'm brutally honest) I didn't try too hard to make it work in the first place. By that point, I was just trying to tell a bunch of fun UK stories that didn't necessarily impact on the larger (US) storyline. How was I to know 15 or so years later people would be trying to reconcile it all?" [http://transfans.co.uk/interviews_furman.php TransFans.net - Interviews: Simon Furman - Part 1 'The Past'].</ref>
*Germany's ''[[Transformers Comic-Magazin]]'' started in 1989 and reprinted older Marvel US and UK strips. Since, of course, these would rarely show the current toys, Comic-Magazin ran text stories from #2 that showcased ''completely different'' Transformers that were on Earth at the same time, and just happened not to be seen in the strips.
*Trapped between the need to pimp toys and the problem of not knowing what the plot of ''Revenge of the Fallen'' would be, Titan just threw up their hands and unambiguously set their lead strip in [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)#Alternate universe|an alternate universe]].
*Based on evidence from various sources, it's been speculated that the episode "[[Starscream's Ghost]]" was originally meant to star [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]], who at the time had been exiled from the Decepticons and was on somewhat friendly terms with the Autobots. Instead, his role was taken over by new toy [[Octane (G1)|Octane]]. The only other episode to prominently feature Octane, "[[Thief in the Night]]", which was aired ''after'' "Starscream's Ghost", kinda sorta explains his falling out with the Decepticons—except it doesn't: While said episode ''does'' have him go rogue, not only is ''still'' a bad guy—by the end of that episode, ''Galvatron is no longer on bad terms with Octane''! Likewise, the episode "[[The God Gambit]]" starred [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]], Starscream and Thrust, with Astrotrain (a new toy at the time) taking on a leadership role more akin to Megatron rather than the bus he's reduced to in almost every other episode.
* The Japanese broadcast of ''Animated'' outright skipped "[[Rise of the Constructicons]]" and "[[Sari, No One's Home]]", as they largely revolve around the toy-less [[Mixmaster (Animated)|Mixmaster]] and [[Scrapper (Animated)|Scrapper]]. Meanwhile, "[[Sound and Fury]]" was moved up to be the first episode to air after the pilot to promote Soundwave's toys, which is at odds with continuity since Megatron only came back online during "[[Home Is Where the Spark Is]]", which was pushed to air ''after'' "Sound and Fury."
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===Power levels===
In order to make new characters seem more ''totally awesome'', they're often depicted as ultra-powerful in their initial appearances. Once they become old news, they frequently seem to lose their super-charged abilities.

*The Generation 1 cartoon introduced [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] as the ultimate threat. Once newer combiner teams came along, however, he was less of a threat, easily defeated at various times by [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]], [[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]] and even [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]].
[[File:Buzzsawyikes4.jpg|upright=1.4|thumb|Buzzsaw reminds Omega Supreme he's not a new toy any more.]]
*The Marvel comics feature [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] as nigh-invulnerable and ultimately powerful in [[Command Performances!|his debut issue]], slaughtering all but two of the Decepticon forces sent to attack him. Just [[Dark Star|two years later]], he's getting his butt handed to him by the likes of [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]], one of his original victims.
*[[Waspinator (BW)|Waspinator]] was, amazingly, something of a threat in early episodes; he holds his own against [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] in his debut. He only became significantly weaker than the other Predacons during the second season.
*In her first appearance on the ''Beast Wars'' cartoon, [[Airazor (BW)|Airazor]] effortlessly blasts [[Terrorsaur (BW)|Terrorsaur]] to pieces. She never displays such a level of power again.
*Similarly, [[Rampage (BW)|Rampage]] was presented as a huge threat when he first appeared, but just a few episodes later, he seems just slightly tougher than the average Predacon (save for a few notable occasions).
*[[Sky-Byte (RID)|Sky-Byte]] was actually a credible threat for his first couple of episodes.
*The [[Commando (RID)|Commandos]] were far more powerful and competent than the Predacons, who were made even ''less'' powerful and competent as episodes went on. Remarkably, this was actually used in the plot, with Megatron focusing on the new toys while the Predacons became underdogs trying to get their old status back and one-up the new guys.
[[File:ArmTVTidalWave.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Before he shrank in the wash.]]
*''Any'' new toy character in the Unicron Trilogy cartoons is almost guaranteed to win the day's battle.
*[[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Tidal Wave]] was a staggering behemoth as big as the sky in his introduction, and his ability to combine with Megatron gave the battle advantage to the Decepticons until his equally powerful counterpart [[Overload (Armada)|Overload]] was introduced. By the time of the ''Energon'' cartoon, Tidal Wave is just this tall guy (but not as tall as he used to be) and is treated as just another Decepticon, even after he gets a body upgrade in the form of "Mirage".
*When the newly redecoed Jetfire and [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus]] combine in Dreamwave's Armada comic, they are so powerful ''they can hurt Unicron himself''.
*[[Animatron|Jungle Planet]] ruler [[Scourge (Cybertron)|Scourge]] was incredibly powerful when he was first introduced, but later on, he's getting slaps on the wrist by [[Lori Jiménez|Lori]] and [[Thunderblast (Decepticon)|Thunderblast]], and schooled by [[Bud Hansen|Bud]], ultimately becoming more of a sympathetic comedic bumbler than a credible threat.
*The Decepticons in ''Animated'' started off as being so horrifically powerful that the entire Autobot team had to take on a ''single'' one. By Season 3, this no longer happens. Uniquely, this was ''deliberate'' by the writers: they wanted to show the Decepticons as supreme threats, and have the Autobots gradually being better at dealing with them.
* The [[Vehicon (Prime)|Vehicons]] in ''Prime'' started off pretty tough; easily wearing down [[Cliffjumper (WFC)|Cliffjumper]] in a group, then just two giving [[Arcee (WFC)|Arcee]] and [[Bumblebee (WFC)|Bumblebee]] a tough time. In the next episode, they've got Stormtrooper aim, and basically exist to give the Autobots someone to kill while saving the named Decepticons from the scrapheap. It gets to the point where in the third season, [[Starscream (WFC)|Starscream]] actually ''counts'' on the Vehicons failing to execute [[Wheeljack (Prime)|Wheeljack]], and Wheeljack makes several amusing comments about the Vehicons' incompetence.
* Additionally, the [[Insecticon (WFC)|Insecticons]] started off as nightmarishly strong monsters. One wears ''[[Megatron (WFC)|Megatron]]'' to the point of exhaustion before dying (admittedly, Megs was deprived of his main asset when Airachnid webbed his fusion cannon). However, for the remainder of the series, the Insecticons are just as weak as the Vehicons, being blasted down in one shot, despite a return to form in [[Tunnel Vision]] and [[Toxicity]] (the latter of which saw the debut of notorious Autobot killer [[Hardshell (Prime)|Hardshell]]).
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===New bodies===
There's rarely a compelling reason for a Transformer to get a brand-new body in fiction; it's simply to promote a new toy. It has become a default way to keep a popular character on shelves, rather than having to kill them off and introduce a new character to keep moving toys. Sometimes fiction writers are able to work these alterations in elegantly... sometimes not.

[[File:Bumblebeeskindeep.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Ratchet pulls a Kitty Pryde on Bumblebee.]]
*[[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Bumblebee]] was rebuilt into Goldbug following his near-destruction... and was later re-rebuilt back into Bumblebee to sell the [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys#Pretender|new Classic Pretender toy]]. The reason given in [[Skin Deep|the comic storyline]] was that [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] reverted him without his consent because Ratchet liked his old form better, something Bumblebee is strangely fine with.
*Season 2 of ''[[Beast Wars: Transformers (cartoon)|Beast Wars]]'' introduced the new [[Transmetal]] toys in short order, requiring some strange sci-fi waffling to explain why members of both teams suddenly got special new bodies. The writers had originally planned to introduce these changes gradually, across the length of Season 2, but Hasbro ordered them to be brought in immediately. (The slow-and-gradual notion would eventually appear during Season 3.)
*The [[Unicron Trilogy]] cartoons feature [[Megatron (Armada)/Cartoon continuity|Megatron]] getting recolored and renamed "Galvatron" ''three times''; at the start of each subsequent series, he's given a different body but called Megatron ''again'', because the name "Megatron" just sells more toys. (This also means Hasbro gets to keep the [[trademark]] "Galvatron".) The Japanese versions handled this differently (with Megatron known as Megatron throughout Armada even after his upgrade, and being known as Galvatron throughout all of Energon) due to different trademark laws. Galaxy Force (the Japanese version of Cybertron) played it straight with Master Megatron being upgraded into Master Galvatron.
*Several times during the Unicron Trilogy, characters get new paint jobs as part of some magical power-up enhancement. These new color schemes exist solely to promote redecorated toys like "[[Ironhide (Energon)|Energon Ironhide]]" or "[[Hot Shot (Armada)/toys|Powerlinx Hot Shot]]". Even the comics got in on the action, introducing the redecorated versions of Jetfire and Optimus during the Unicron arc.
*The three future members of the [[Cybertron Defense Team]] get shot up by Megatron, then transmogrify through the power of [[Burning justice|BLAZING HEART OF JUSTICE]] into new forms. These new forms, of course, were just hitting shelves at a toy store near you.
*In the course of the [[Transformers (film)|live-action movie]], [[Bumblebee (Movie)|Bumblebee]] gets irritated at a slight against his alternate mode, and scans a new form. Voila, suddenly he's got ''two'' toys on the shelf! He later pulls the ''exact same thing'' in ''[[Transformers: Age of Extinction (film)|Age of Extinction]]'', but by now, he's been established as having a fragile ego, explaining the constant desire to switch alternate modes.
*When [[IDW Publishing|IDW]]'s ''Transformers'' comic originally came out, there were no Generation 1-themed toys to flog, and many characters were given altered designs for the series. Then along came ''[[Transformers: Universe (2008 franchise)|Universe]]'', featuring new toys of Generation 1 characters, and suddenly multiple characters get new, toy-accurate bodies in ''[[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|All Hail Megatron]]'', for no apparent in-story reason. Later, [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] even gets a namechange to ''Silver''streak to fit his toy.
*Sometimes, IDW's comics don't even bother with a reason: you just get the latest issue and a character suddenly resembles the latest toy. This can sometimes be explained as artist interpretation, but at other times...
*[[Shockwave (Animated)|Shockwave]] was originally grey, but when he was reunited with the ''Animated'' Decepticons, he changed his colours to purple while referring to it as his proper look. Why he changed colouration to go undercover was not explained, but it may have something to do with a purple-coloured Shockwave toy being out when that episode aired.
*In ''[[Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (film)|Revenge of the Fallen]]'', [[Skids (ROTF)|Skids]] and [[Mudflap (ROTF)|Mudflap]] start out as an old ice cream truck combiner but after a disastrous mission [[NEST]] decides to upgrade them to new individual [[General Motors]] vehicles. New toys ''and'' product placement!
*[[Starscream (Armada)#Generations|''Armada'' Starscream]] is getting a new toy in 2014. There isn't an ''Armada'' comic but there is a Generation 1 comic with a Starscream, which is going to be packed-in with the toy series including Armada Starscream. And lo and behold, for ''Dark Cybertron'' Starscream gets a new body! A year later, he swaps to ''another'' body for [[Combiner Wars]], which is his new Leader-class toy, and several issues are devoted to him choosing it and then flaunting it. Then again, this ''is'' Starscream we're talking about...
*[[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]] is finally getting a new toy. Problem is, his comic body doesn't look much like the toy. Then, in ''[[Black Planet: Dark Cybertron Chapter 11|Dark Cybertron Chapter 11]]'', he reveals his new invention: reactive armor that changes his body to look like his opponent's. Who does he use this armor to battle? Why, it's Starscream, the guy his toy was retooled from!
*2015's ''[[Combiner Wars]]'' comic series brings back almost all of the combiner characters that have appeared in the IDW continuity thus far. However, [[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]] was apparently killed by [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] and [[Wildrider (G1)|Wildrider]] quit the Stunticons... so that [[Alpha Bravo]] and [[Offroad]] can replace them! Meanwhile, Starscream rebuilds Devastator; not only does Devastator suddenly resemble his toy counterpart, but [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] is no longer a required member of the combiner team, leaving him free to combine with Optimus Prime and company to become the brand-new combiner [[Optimus Maximus (G1)|Optimus Maximus]]. Superion and Menasor, who had made previous appearances in IDW fiction, are both rebuilt by the [[Enigma of Combination]], causing their bodies to more closely resemble their toy counterparts. And if this body-alteration bonanza isn't enough, Starscream gets ''another'' new body, this time based on his upcoming ''Combiner Wars'' Leader-class toy.

===Character pimping===
Characters with toys may get more attention than those without:

*"[[Matrix Quest]]" has four separate teams on a mission. You could use any three Transformers in one of these teams, right? Nope, Furman has toys to promote: out go nine new Autobots and three rereleased ones.
*[[Depth Charge (BW)|Depth Charge's]] presence in all three of his first three ''Beast Wars'' episodes: one for his origin, another for him joining the Maximals after all, and then an abrupt appearance at the very end of "[[Cutting Edge]]" where he turns up and single-handedly drives off a Predacon force.
*When ''[[Transformers Animated (cartoon)#Japanese release|Animated]]'' was released in Japan, episodes focusing on the [[Constructicon (Animated)|Constructicon]]s were never broadcast on television (instead being reduced to bonus content on the DVDs), as the Constructicons did not have toys. The episode order was also rearranged (and thus the internal narrative of the series, as well) so that episodes introducing new toys could air earlier than those that didn't.
*IDW's ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlight]]'' came back in 2013 in order to promote six of the upcoming ''Generations'' toys. Even [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]], a little-used character who would never have been given a ''Spotlight'' otherwise! (Initially published through Diamond and Comixology as per IDW's usual practice, these comics were subsequently packed-in with the toys they were based on, aiming to use the higher sales of the toys to boost comic sales in a "I'll scratch your back, you scratch mine" scenario.) Likewise, Waspinator, having a new toy out in late 2013, began making appearances and took on increased importance in the IDW universe. An upcoming [[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]] toy brought forth a Tankor appearance in Dark Cybertron. The opening arcs of the second seasons of ''More Than Meets The Eye'' and ''Robots in Disguise'' (as well as ''Windblade vol. 1'') in 2014 also heavily feature casts of characters with new toys, such as Nightbeat, Rattrap, Arcee, and Jetfire.

===Abrupt conclusions===
[[File:MarvelUSG2-12.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb|It's the end of the road for Transformers Generation 2! That can't bode well for the toyline.]]
Just as ''Transformers'' fiction lives at Hasbro's pleasure, so too does it die. Falling sales, a change of plans, and standard [[rebranding]] can all cause a storyline to come to a sudden end when Hasbro decides to pull the plug.

*The American Generation 1 cartoon got a somewhat rushed conclusion in the form of "[[The Rebirth]]", rather than a full fourth season.
*The Generation 1 comics were nearly canceled at [[On the Edge of Extinction!|issue #75]], but granted a reprieve. The stay of execution was only temporary, however; with the Generation 1 toyline ending, the comic was terminated a mere five issues later, resulting in a rather hasty concluding plotline.
*Hasbro was only willing to support the [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|''Generation 2'' comic]] for twelve issues, unless it proved an unqualified (perhaps phenomenal) success. Aware of this from the start, writer Simon Furman was able to plot a story arc that reached its finale as the series ended (and poked fun at it with a character whose name is a pun on "[[Jhiaxus (G2)|Gee, axe us]]".)
*The writers of the ''Beast Wars'' cartoon reportedly never had any idea if they'd be back for another season. When the axe fell with Season 3, they had only three episodes left to wrap up the whole series.
*Hasbro nearly killed off the just-begun comic series ''The Wreckers'' in 2001, wishing instead for [[3H Productions|3H]] to focus on a ''[[Transformers: Universe (comic)|Universe]]'' comic advertising its current toyline.
*Even though ''[[Transformers: Cybertron (cartoon)|Cybertron]]'' wasn't abruptly canceled, Kids WB ended the series on the cliffhanger of the episode "[[Revelation (episode)|Revelation]]", leaving millions of kids tuning in next time only to get a re-run of ''Xiaolin Showdown''. The reason? The Cybertron Defense Team toys hadn't hit stores yet.
*With ''[[Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (film)|Revenge of the Fallen]]'' coming out in June, Titan had to end their alternate universe storyline in May so they could tie in early—an issue earlier than planned. The main strip handled this, with the notable exception of [[Jazz (Movie)#Titan Magazines Transformers movie comics|the Jazz plot arc]] going completely unresolved, but it played havoc with working out the IDW reprints!
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==Death==
===Killing off old product===
[[File:Tftm1986a.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb|Guess who's no longer in the Mini Vehicles case assortment?]]
[[File:Newyorkunderbase.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb|Publisher's clearing house.]]
[[File:BW Scorponok Terrorsaur deaths.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb|Scorponok, Terrorsaur, we're condemning you to a fiery death 'cause Waspinator has a bigger fan club.]]
The most obvious To Sell Toys effect comes from the temporary nature of retail sales. Even in the 1980s, toys rarely stayed on the shelves past two years; today that timespan is much smaller. Once a toy is no longer selling, Hasbro has no interest in supporting fiction about that character—especially when there's newer toys to promote. Therefore, writers are often compelled to remove characters from the story by killing them off. Sometimes this happens through carefully developed story arcs, but it's easier to do it with huge, apocalyptic battles with massive numbers of casualties.

*In ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'', numerous main characters are killed or changed in the movie's first 30 minutes, including [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]], [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]], [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]], and [[Ironhide (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ironhide]]. They are replaced by a slew of new characters; in fact, the poster for the movie shows ''only'' new characters.
*Numerous characters are killed in the Marvel UK comics saga "[[Time Wars]]". The Grim Reaper seemed to spare either popular characters (Megatron and [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]) or newer characters ([[Carnivac (G1)|Carnivac]], [[Catilla (G1)|Catilla]] and [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]], for example.)
*The [[Underbase Saga]] features a super-powerful [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]] killing literally ''dozens'' of characters; some place the count over fifty. The survivors were mostly from the [[Pretender]], [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]], and [[Targetmaster]] ranks, those being the then-current toy lines. However, the explanation ([[Underbase]] power didn't affect those TFs with organic components) meant that even the [[Seacon (G1)|Seacons]], new toys at the time and introduced three issues before, met their end.
*The climactic [[On the Edge of Extinction!|battle with Unicron]] 25 issues later killed off many of the Underbase survivors, whose shelf run had ended.
*With its enormously expensive CGI animation, ''Beast Wars'' was particularly vulnerable to toy-based interference. The expense of creating and animating a CGI body model meant that the character roster had to remain fairly constant; the introduction of all-new characters usually required the removal of an equal number of pre-existing characters. And so, [[Scorponok (BW)|Scorponok]] and [[Terrorsaur (BW)|Terrorsaur]] die just in time for the arrival of [[Quickstrike (BW)|Quickstrike]] and [[Silverbolt (BW)|Silverbolt]]. (Frustrated with the situation, the writers carefully planned out<ref>http://www.builtstlouis.net/tf/manic/m-botcon.html</ref> the demise of [[Dinobot (BW)|Dinobot]], anticipating that someone would have to be removed to make way for [[Rampage (BW)|newer characters]].) [[Tigerhawk]] was introduced and then killed off within three episodes, due to corporate uncertainty about whether the toy would actually be produced.
*''[[Transformers: The Reign of Starscream|The Reign of Starscream]]'' would end up killing a large number of Autobots in [[The Reign of Starscream issue 5|issue #5]], after their toys had been around for a while; as they'd not made an appearance in the comics until this mini, this is both an example of Huge Cast ''and'' Product Clearing. It would then go on to bump off some Decepticons, while its sequel ''[[Transformers: Alliance|Alliance]]'' slaughtered ''hordes'' of Decepticons with old toys. Mowry is the new Furman...
*IDW's [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''Robots in Disguise'']] ongoing has to promote a [[Superion (G1)|Superion]]... with a new helicopter instead of [[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]]. Hence, Slingshot is the one to suffer most and die from the injuries caused when [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] conveniently tore him in half several issues ago. This becomes horrifically redundant when one considers that Devastator tore through Superion from the ''right'', and Slingshot was Superion's ''left'' arm at the time. Not to mention that Silverbolt, the torso, was explicitly ripped in half... The series would go on to have [[Wildrider (G1)|Wildrider]] leave the Stunticons over a humiliating defeat... one he suffered years ago, in [[The Question|Spotlight: Bumblebee]]. Naturally, the empty position was filled by new toy [[Offroad]]. Then Hasbro decided to release Quickslinger and Brake-Neck (Slingshot and Wildrider renamed for trademark issues) ''much'' later after the others' release and ''much'' later after many fans bought Alpha Bravo and Offroad to complete their combiners, effectively forcing fans of the original roster to buy ''both'' new and old toys. Crafty, Hasbro. Crafty.

This has become less common in recent years, as Hasbro has come to realize that their target audiences can actually get attached to certain [[character]]s, and might not enjoy seeing them die random, brutal, meaningless [[death]]s.
{{-}}

===Hi-and-die===
[[File:Chuffer cof.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb|Likely dialog: "SHEEEAAGH!!"]]
Kids don't want to buy a toy of a character who's dead. So if the plot calls for someone to die, smart money bets on the character who has a toy as the survivor. The guy without a toy, who you've never heard of before? Toast. This is the ''Transformers'' version of ''[[Star Trek]]'''s infamous [[wikipedia:redshirt syndrome|redshirt syndrome]]. The stereotypical hi-and-die character is killed off in the same episode/issue that introduces him, if not the very same scene.

*This approach was particularly common in the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#UK comics|UK comics]]. Characters created specifically so they could be killed off include Wrecker leader [[Impactor (G1)|Impactor]], Autobot/zombie food [[Chuffer]], Tailgate's Autobot trainee buddies/mutant fodder [[Subsea]] and [[Flattop (Autobot)|Flattop]], and the sixth member of the "Magnificent Six", [[Stampede]].
*The US comics also used this approach on occasion, as with [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]]'s poignantly adorable buddy [[Scrounge (G1)|Scrounge]].
*The ''Energon'' cartoon introduced [[Padlock (Energon)|Padlock]], whose purpose was to die at [[Shockblast]]'s hands, providing motivation for toy-character [[Wing Saber (Energon)|Wing Saber]].
*''Animated'' chucked in [[Arcee (Animated)|Arcee]] so Ratchet could have a tragic past where he failed to save someone. (And ''then'' she got a toy!)
*The [[Transformers Animated (Titan)|''Animated'' comic]] wants to do a story arc about an Autobot who's really a spy and then have him killed. Quick, [[Afterburn|make someone up]]!
*''[[Transformers: Exodus|Exodus]]'' invents hordes of characters solely to populate the story with casualties while preserving the classic characters: [[Chromatron]], [[Gauntlet]], [[Halogen (WFC)|Halogen]], [[Drixco]], [[Revo]], [[Catalycon]], and dozens of other unnamed Autobots, Decepticons and [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]].
*[[James Roberts]] elevated hi-and-die to an artform; though his run on ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' is crammed with minor non-toy characters who wind up dead, many still received some backstory, history, or distinctive characterization before - or even after - being killed off. Examples from ''MtMtE'''s first "season" include [[Polaris]], [[Hyperion (G1)|Hyperion]], [[Shock (G1)|Shock]], [[Ore]], [[Animus]], [[Dent]], [[Sonic (G1)|Sonic]], [[Boom]], [[Piston (Wrecker)|Piston]], [[Crest]], [[Torque (G1)|Torque]], [[Sherma]], [[Momus]], "[[Fallout (G1)|Fallout]]", "[[Streaker]]", [[Heavies|Hammer and Anvil]], [[Trepan]], [[Frak|Frak and his buddy]], [[Rossum]], [[Tripodeca]], [[Pivot]], [[Scattergun]], [[Blockus]], [[Datum]], [[Ramp]], and [[Suture]]. Similarly, ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'' introduced us to [[Squadron X]], comprising just about every Decepticon hi-and-die character from the Marvel continuity, who were then all slaughtered by Impactor.
{{-}}

===Resurrection===
Killing off a character isn't always toy-motivated; sometimes it's a dramatic plot development. But it can also be a problem if Hasbro decides to make a new toy of that character.

[[File:Inferno dies agenda2.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb|Only a flesh wound!]]
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] has been resurrected [[The many deaths of Optimus Prime|so many times]] that it's practically a defining character trait. His original revival in the cartoon didn't correspond to any actual toy release, but the Marvel comic brought him back specifically to advertise his [[Powermaster]] form. A second death-and-revival introduced his [[Action Master]] body. And a ''third'' death-and-revival in ''Generation 2'' brought him into his [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#G2Hero|Hero]] toy form.
*The Japanese killed off Optimus (or "Convoy" as they called him) in [[Transformers: The Headmasters (cartoon)|''The Headmasters'']]. A few years later, they not only brought him back with a new toy, the ''entire franchise'' for that year was called ''[[Transformers: Return of Convoy (franchise)|Return of Convoy]]''.
*Numerous "dead" characters were brought back into the Marvel comic series when their Classics and/or Action Master versions were released. Many were "deactivated" rather than outright dead; however, very few ''non'' Action Master characters showed up alongside them.
*The series writers for ''Beast Wars'' considered [[Optimus Primal/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] dead and gone at the end of Season 1. Hasbro, however, had a [[Transmetal]] Optimus Primal toy to promote, and so he was returned to life in Season 2. Hasbro wanted him brought back in the first minutes of the season premiere, but the writers managed to convince them that it would be better to do so at the ''end'' of the two-episode story.
*At the end of Season 2 of ''Beast Wars'', [[Inferno (BW)|Inferno]] was pretty clearly shown being killed—being ''disintegrated''—but in the next season appeared to have just been bruised and cracked, because Hasbro was not ready to have a Mega-scaled toy removed from the series.
*Pretty much ''nobody'' could successfully die in the [[Transformers: Energon (cartoon)|''Energon'' cartoon]]. [[Megatron (Armada)/Cartoon continuity|Megatron]], [[Starscream (Armada)/Cartoon continuity|Starscream]], [[Demolishor (Armada)|Demolishor]], [[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Tidal Wave]], [[Wing Saber (Energon)|Wing Dagger]], and [[Inferno (Energon)|Inferno]] all die and/or are resurrected from the dead during the course of the show.
*[[Jazz (Movie)|Jazz]] still had toys out in 2008. The [[bio]] for AllSpark-Enhanced Autobot Jazz states he was brought back from near-death by the AllSpark and is "more powerful than ever". Voila, Jazz comes back from the dead thanks to the AllSpark in [[Transformers Comic issue 16|Titan's tie-in comic]]! Optimus even uses the ''term'' "Autobot Jazz" in [[Transformers Comic issue 21|a later issue]]...
*[[Nightbeat (G1)|Nightbeat]] was shot in the head and abandoned on [[Gorlam Prime]] back in "[[Spotlight: Hardhead]]". Six years later, Hasbro were releasing a new Nightbeat toy and back he comes into ''Dark Cybertron'', a chatty undead from the [[Dead Universe]]. He proceeds to survive the destruction of the Dead Universe and is currently on the Lost Light.
{{-}}

===Untouchables===
[[File:Armorhide drawhisfire.jpg|upright=1.4|thumb|Really, they could just stand there making rude noises at Starscream.]]
Obviously, if a character ''does'' have a current toy (or soon will), they're ([[Cliffjumper (WFC)|usually]]) not going to die, even if the plot or common sense indicates they should. This sometimes because Hasbro itself declares a character unkillable, and so comics and TV writers must follow suit.
*In "[[Optimal Situation]]", [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] had betrayed [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] to the Maximals, ruining his greatest shot at victory. As he declared, "There will be no more betrayals!", she would pay the price: being knocked into stasis lock so the Maximals could fix her and she could stay on their team.
*Megatron himself was in a prime position to be terminated, as were the Maximals later on, in "[[The Weak Component]]". Since this was only episode 6 and everyone had toys out, the cast politely agreed not to take this opportunity to end a brutal war for the planet.
*Titan's Movie strip was moved to an alternate universe, where you'd [[Rhythms of Darkness!|expect nobody to be safe from death]]. However, most of the cast had toys out, so whether it was a desperate guerrilla fight against Decepticon occupation, the rise of [[Unicron]], a [[Decepticon Civil War]], or the final battle, very few characters bought it. The big exception was [[Divebomb (Movie)|Divebomb]], dying in his first battle.
*In ''Last Stand of the Wreckers'' (mentioned earlier), James Roberts observed that Impactor was the only character who was guaranteed not be killed. However, Hasbro shot down the idea of Perceptor or Springer dying, and so most of the fatalities were less well-known characters like Pyro, Ironfist, and eternally unlucky Wreckers Twin Twist and Topspin.
*Similar to his Beast Era counterpart, ''[[Transformers: Prime (franchise)|Prime]]'' [[Megatron (WFC)|Megatron]] was worn down to the point of exhaustion, and was at [[Optimus Prime (WFC)|Optimus Prime]]'s mercy. Optimus, now [[One Shall Fall|sworn to outright kill Megatron when he gets the chance]], is about to pull the trigger, but ends up backing down when he's threatened by Decepticon reinforcements... in this case, the laughing stock redshirt Vehicons. It doesn't help that the ''[[Transformers: Prime (toyline)|Prime]]'' toyline had ''just'' gotten on shelves, but seriously? Optimus felt threatened by ''Vehicons''?
*Starscream, the end.

==Notable exceptions==
There are, however, a few notable exception to the To Sell Toys effect:

===Toys not released in the relevant market===
[[File:Swoopg1marvelukfirst.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|YOU CAN'T HAVE ME.]]
Occasionally the ''Transformers'' fiction released in a particular country features characters whose toys were not released in that country. The Marvel UK comic featured two variations of this phenomenon:

*Characters inherited from the US strips. Some, such as [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]], [[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]] and the [[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]], were given fairly prominent roles in the US stories reprinted in the UK comic and so it was hard to ignore them completely in the UK originated material despite their toys not being around to need advertising. However the decision to develop the Predacons (even before their US appearances were reprinted), to have entire storylines focusing on Swoop, and also to keep Shockwave in continuity even after he'd been (supposedly) killed off in the US comic goes beyond this.
*Characters not featured in the US strips. Bizarrely the UK comic also made use of some characters such as [[Roadbuster (G1)|Roadbuster]], [[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]], [[Chop Shop (G1)|Chop Shop]] and [[Venom (G1)|Venom]], despite their toys not being available on UK toy shelves. None of these characters were inherited from the US material.

Writer [[Simon Furman]] has since stated that when writing the stories he was generally unaware of which toys were unavailable in the UK: "We largely took our cue from what characters were being introduced into the US storyline. If there was a release schedule for the toys in the UK, we rarely saw it... But in the case of Swoop and the Predacons, I don't think I was consciously aware (at the time) that we were dealing with toys not generally available in the UK. They were just extant characters, and therefore fair game." <ref>[http://transfans.co.uk/interviews_furman.php TransFans.net - Interviews: Simon Furman - Part 1 'The Past'].</ref>

This would happen again with Titan, as foreign exclusives palled around with UK-available toys such as [[Bludgeon (ROTF)|Bludgeon]] and [[Slap Dash]].

Another example would be the original text stores published by [[Condor Verlag]] in their ''[[Transformers Comic-Magazin]]'': The text story from [[Transformers Comic-Magazin issue 11|issue 11]] features the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]], even though catalogs from the era, backed up by German fans' recollections, suggest that the German release of the ''[[Classics (Europe)|Classics]]'' line-up omitted the Classic Combaticons, possibly due to their "war" theme.
{{-}}

===Post-Marvel, pre-2013 G1 comics===
[[File:Infiltration 1b.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|"Hey, Runamuck, it's our first appearance on a comic book cover in twenty years!" "Heh heh, now if only we could appear on toy store shelves..."]]
Both [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] and [[IDW Publishing|IDW]] comics, the two recent holders of the license to publish ''Transformers'' comic books, sometimes produce comics using whichever toy line is current (e.g., Dreamwave's ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' comic or IDW's [[Transformers (film)|2007 movie]] tie-ins), and sometimes publish comics using whatever characters they please (e.g., ''[[Transformers: The War Within|The War Within]]'' and ''[[The Transformers: Escalation|Escalation]]''). The characters in their "discretionary" comics are often not currently available in toy form ([[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], a character appearing in numerous stories from IDW's G1 continuity during their early years, only had [[Hardhead (G1)#Universe (2008)|another toy]] on shelves at around 2009, a good twenty-two years since [[Hardhead (G1)#Generation 1|his last toy]]), sometimes are drawn with bodies that have ''never'' been toys (most of the ''War Within'' characters), and sometimes are toys that were never available outside of specific countries ([[Lio Convoy (BWII)|Lio Convoy]] in IDW's ''Beast Wars'').

[[Chris Ryall]], IDW Editor-in-Chief and writer of the miniseries adapting the 2007 movie to comics, had stated on IDW's forums that Hasbro does not dictate what comics IDW must make ("Nope, no dictates at all from Hasbro. We put the plan together, send to them for approval.").<ref>http://forum.idwpublishing.com/viewtopic.php?p=69377</ref> By the time of ''All Hail Megatron'', however, the ''Universe'' line came out and Hasbro asked IDW to start using some of those designs.<ref>[http://forum.idwpublishing.com/viewtopic.php?p=102461#102461 Guido reveals the Hasbro request]</ref> Though this practice did not influence the subsequent [[The Transformers (IDW)|ongoing series]], it did raise its head again in 2013, as Hasbro and IDW began working together to create new toys based on character designs from the comics, to promote upcoming toys with New Bodies and to include the [[Dark Cybertron (IDW)|Dark Cybertron]] event (including various preludes) with the toys.

===New toys, same basic design===
In more recent times (mostly in the case of the [[live-action film series]]), Hasbro has used a combination of minor [[redeco]]s, [[retool]]s and sculpts based on the same basic designs to create new toys, instead of giving recurring characters a major design overhaul for the next installment. The fiction then rarely, if ever, acknowledges any of those minor design changes. According to screenwriter [[Roberto Orci]], some people at Hasbro even argued against changing the designs of some returning characters in ''[[Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (film)|Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen]]'', so that parents would '''not''' have to buy the same toy twice for their children just because of a minor change or modification to the characters' designs.<ref>[http://www.tfw2005.com/boards/showpost.php?p=2186879&postcount=171 Roberto Orci posting at TFW2005.com]</ref> (Hasbro still released new, or modified, toys of those characters, prompting [[completist]]s to buy them as well, and the film gave some of the characters slight tweaks in their [[alternate mode]]s, based on changes in the real-life vehicle designs, which the toys had to incorporate.)

===Killing off characters with new toys===
Even characters with new or expensive toys can get the axe early on if the plot calls for it.
*Despite being killed off in the middle of ''Dark of the Moon'', Ironhide got a lot of new toys, including a leader class figure, a voyager class figure, and a Halloween costume for children!
*''Prime'' Cliffjumper was hyped up as a major character in the lead-up to the show's premiere, and got several toys like the other members of the main cast. He dies within the first five minutes of the premiere episode. He does, however, get his fair share of screentime by flashbacks and the like.

===New toys with minimal fictional appearances===
Sometimes, characters that have a new or expensive toy barely see use in fiction.
*Generation 1 Whirl and Roadbuster were larger and more expensive than many of the other Autobots, but never appeared in the original cartoon. They were featured in the comics as members of the Wreckers.
*Sixshot's only appearance in the original cartoon is a quick sequence where he transforms into each of his alt modes to defeat the Aerialbots. He is never seen again.
*In ''Transformers Armada'', Optimus Prime is the only character to not receive an upgrade after being defeated by Nemesis Prime, despite having an expensive $40 redeco on store shelves. Optimus does receive the redeco colors in the final episode of the series, but he returns to his old colors by the episode's conclusion.
*[[Optimus Prime (Movie)|"Silver Knight" Optimus Prime]] had an entire thematic segment of the [[Transformers: Age of Extinction (toyline)|''Age of Extinction'' toy line]] dedicated to him that was exclusive to [[Target]] stores. However, the character, who would have been an upgrade of Optimus Prime, was cut from the theatrical release of ''Age of Extinction''.
*''[[Combiner Wars]]'' Quickslinger and Brake-Neck, meant to be [[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]] and [[Wildrider (G1)|Wildrider]], will not get any focus in the accompanying IDW fiction: Slingshot is dead and Wildrider's whereabouts are unknown after his leaving the Stunticons. Instead, their selling point is giving fans the chance to complete G1-accurate [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] and [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] toys.

==Footnotes==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Toys]]

The Rebirth, Part 1

2015-11-05T22:51:04Z

RQ87-D2: /* Foreign localization */

{{episode
|image=Rebirth 1 title shot.JPG
|caption="Guys, I'm serious, we need a water cooler in here to converse about." "Goldbug, we're robots. We don't drink water."
|series=G1toon
|ep=96
|title="The Rebirth, Part 1"
|written by=[[David Wise]]
|animation studio=[[AKOM]]
|production code=6701-1
|airdate=[[November 9]], 1987
|production company=[[Sunbow Productions]]
|continuity=[[Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}

'''Galvatron invades Autobot City and then Cybertron with a plan to destroy the Autobots forever! This is something new?'''

==Synopsis==
[[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Goldbug]] is talking with the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobots]] at [[Autobot City (G1)|Autobot City]]. Things have been quiet for the [[Autobot]]s in the months since the return of [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] and the [[Hate Plague]] crisis. Not a word has been heard of the [[Decepticon]]s in months. Who knows where they are. The answer? Right at their doorstep. Meanwhile, [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ultra Magnus]] walks into a room to find Optimus on his knees. Optimus claims that he has been having visions since he opened the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]], and it's something big. Goldbug informs Optimus of the approaching Decepticon force, and Optimus realizes that what ever he's been sensing, it's starting right now.

[[File:Rebirth 1 Autobots Decepticons fight.JPG|left|upright=1.1|thumb|A truly epic battle.]]

Leading the Autobots out, the Decepticons attack. The Technobots and the [[Throttlebot]]s take point, but the Decepticons have gotten some new raw power in [[Apeface]] and [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]], while [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] has some fun with [[Lightspeed (G1 Technobot)|Lightspeed]]. However, [[Punch (G1)|Punch]] sees [[Wingspan]] and [[Pounce]] enter into Autobot City. [[Transformation|Transforming]] into Counterpunch, he follows to check up on their progress, where he sees them steal something from the vaults. The Clones quickly dispatch Punch, and take their prize to [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]]. Having claimed what they wanted, [[Galvatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Galvatron]] orders a retreat. Optimus, realizing this was a diversion, runs into Autobot City, finding Punch and the vault. Horrified, Optimus orders everyone to board the ships and head for [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]].

On Cybertron, [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] is racing with [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]], with [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] riding in Hot Rod. Blurr, however, loses control, while Daniel shoots several Decepticon targets and wins the race. [[Brainstorm]] claims that this is evidence of his theory that human partners would be able to assist the Autobots in the war with the Decepticons. [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] and [[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]] are unsure of the idea. However, Optimus contacts the Autobots, telling them Galvatron stole the [[Key to the Plasma Energy Chamber|Key]] to the [[Plasma Energy Chamber]]. This was the forge which was used to create the bodies of the original Autobots. Since the [[Quintesson]] rebellion, the key has been in the safekeeping of the Autobot leaders, who have been tasked with guarding the key with their [[Spark|lives]]. However, Galvatron intends to open the chamber and destroy Cybertron. The Decepticons arrive, and chaos ensues. The [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]] are quickly taken down by [[Sixshot (G1)|Sixshot]], who shows off [[to sell toys|all six forms]]!

[[File:Rebirth 1 Plasma energy Scourge.JPG|right|upright=1.1|thumb|Scourge never gets a break.]]

During the onslaught, Kup and Hot Rod's team notice Scourge heading for the Plasma Energy Chamber. They pursue in an attempt to stop him. When Scourge opens the chamber, he is nearly killed, but Spike and Cerebros manages to grab the key. The Autobots' ship is hit by a wave of energy from the Plasma Energy Chamber and is hurled off Cybertron itself. Discovering Scourge, the Decepticons reactivate him. Scourge explains what happened, and a team under [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] heads out to find the Autobots with the key.

[[File:Rebirth 1 Hive machines.JPG|left|upright=1.1|thumb|Oh, this is not going to end well...]]

Meanwhile, the Autobot ship crashes on Nebulon. With the engines fried, the Autobots and the Witwickys decide to look for civilization. They're soon spotted by [[Duros]] and [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], who assume the Autobots are machines controlled by the [[Hive (G1)|Hive]] and alert the rest of their resistance group. The group soon captures the Autobots, and plans to destroy the Autobots with magnetic bombs, even though Spike tries to talk them down. However, the Decepticons show up. Spike finally convinces the Nebulons to release the Autobots. In the subsequent battle, Daniel is injured by Snapdragon, and Hot Rod, Kup, Blurr, [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], [[Pointblank (G1)|Pointblank]] and [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] are taken captive. Some of the Autobots pursue them into the forest, but are quickly driven off by machines.

[[File:Rebirth 1 Autobot heads.JPG|right|upright=1.1|thumb|"This will haunt me until the day I die..."]]

Back at the cave, [[Arcana]] and [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]] manage to stabilize Daniel's condition, but the boy will have to be connected to life-support machinery. The [[Nebulan]] leader [[Gort]] explains that the Hive is a tyrannical group of telekinetics who have used machines to enslave Nebulon. The resistance members know the weak points of the machines, but they just don't have the firepower. Spike thinks that Brainstorm's idea of organic partners just might be the ticket. The Autobots agree to allow the Nebulons to use their heads as suits, except for Cerebros, who walks out, tired of fighting. [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] asks to be Daniel's partner, and Spike agrees. As they remove their heads, Spike declares that they are about to become [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]].

[[The Rebirth, Part 2|To be continued...]]

{{-}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] (1)
* [[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Goldbug]] (2)
* [[Lightspeed (G1 Technobot)|Lightspeed]] (3)
* [[Scattershot (G1)|Scattershot]] (4)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ultra Magnus]] (5)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] (6)
* [[Afterburner (G1)|Afterburner]] (7)
* [[Nosecone (G1)|Nosecone]] (8)
* [[Freeway (G1)|Freeway]] (9)
* [[Wideload (G1)|Wideload]] (10)
* [[Searchlight (G1)|Searchlight]] (11)
* [[Chase (G1)|Chase]] (12)
* [[Rollbar (G1)|Rollbar]] (13)
* [[Punch (G1)|Punch]] (27)
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] (33)
* [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]] (34)
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (37)
* [[Pointblank (G1)|Pointblank]] (38)
* [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] (39)
* [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] (40)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (41)
* [[Brainstorm]] (42)
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (43)
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (44)
* [[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]] (45)
* [[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]] (46)
* [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (52)
* [[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (53)
* [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]] (54)
* [[Slingshot (G1)|Slingshot]] (55)
* [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] (56)
* [[Fastlane]] (60)
* [[Cloudraker (G1)|Cloudraker]] (61)

|c2=
* [[Apeface]] (14)
* [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] (15)
* [[Skullcruncher]] (16)
* [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] (17)
* [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]] (18)
* [[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]] (19)
* [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] (20)
* [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] (21)
* [[Sweep]]s (22)
* [[Galvatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Galvatron]] (23)
* [[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]] (24)
* [[Wingspan]] (25)
* [[Pounce]] (26)
* [[Punch (G1)|Counterpunch]] (28)
* [[Sinnertwin (G1)|Sinnertwin]] (29)
* [[Rippersnapper (G1)|Rippersnapper]] (30)
* [[Cutthroat (G1)|Cutthroat]] (31)
* [[Blot (G1)|Blot]] (32)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (47)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (48)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (49)
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (50)
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (51)
* [[Sixshot (G1)|Sixshot]] (57)
* [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] (58)
* [[Triggerhappy]] (59)

|c3=
* [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]] (35)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (36)

|c4=
* [[Gort]] (62)
* [[Duros]] (63)
* [[Stylor]] (64)
* [[Arcana]] (65)
* [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]] (66)
* [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]] (67)
* [[Recoil]] (68)
* [[Haywire]] (69)
* [[Peacemaker]] (70)
* [[Spoilsport]] (71)
}}

==Quotes==
[[File:Rebirth punch and counterpunch.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1| ]]
'''Wingspan:''' "Beat it, Counterpunch! We don't need your help!" 
'''Counterpunch:''' "Fine. ''You'' deal with my Autobot counterpart. I've heard he's nearby." 
''[ducks around the corner, transforms to Punch]'' 
'''Punch:''' "...''Real'' nearby."
:—Punch, master of subtle hints, utters a classic line.

'''Kup''': It might give us the edge if the Decepticons ''did'' return. 
'''Crosshairs''': That's not gonna happen! 
'''Optimus''': Kup! Highbrow! The Decepticons are heading your way! 
'''Kup''': How many of 'em, Prime? 
'''Optimus''': ''All'' of them! 
'''Crosshairs''': 'Course, I ''have'' been wrong on one or two occasions.
:—Crosshairs ''really'' needs to think before he speaks.

"Sixshot, show them what a one-robot army is!"
:—'''Galvatron''' prompts Sixshot to do the old sell-my-toy routine.

"My one wish... is to ''never'' fight again."
:—'''Cerebros''', so pacifistic he won't even fight to help his friends.

"I suppose it's the only meritorious way out of our meretricious situation." 
"Yeah, me too. Like he said."
:—'''Highbrow''' and '''Hardhead''' on becoming Headmasters.

==Season 5==
{{note|When this episode was rebroadcast in [[The Transformers (cartoon)#Season 5|the fifth season]] of ''The Transformers'', it contained new bookending segments with original story material.}}

[[File:TommyWhining.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4|right]]

[[Tommy Kennedy (G1)|Tommy]] meets with [[Powermaster]] [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] with "the greatest idea ever". Tommy says he wants to be turned into a [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]]! Optimus tries to tell him that becoming a Headmaster isn't so easy, but Tommy doesn't understand. Prime figures that if he knew the origin of the Headmasters, he might get it...

Tommy starts pouting, claiming that [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] is "one lucky kid" for getting mauled half to death and thus becoming a Headmaster. Prime informs him that being a Headmaster isn't an answer to all of life's problems. He tries to tell him about the Decepticon Headmasters and how much trouble they're going to make for the Autobot Headmasters, but Tommy just brushes his warnings off and insists on going through the Headmaster process. Prime laments, "You're not gonna let me talk you out of this, are you?" but delays Tommy's gratification. Apparently, [[Landmine (G1)|Landmine]] is going into the shop for some minor retooling and he promised he'd be there. Blasting off, he promises to be back soon to transform Tommy's day into an adventure.

{{--}}

==Notes==
===Animation or technical glitches===
* AKOM continues their proud tradition of using the wrong color models. Thus, throughout the episode:
** Goldbug's mouthplate is gold instead of white.
** Optimus Prime's backpack, fog lights and forehead crest are white instead of red / red / blue, respectively.
** Scourge's head can be seen sticking out of the top of his hovercraft mode.
** The inside of Ultra Magnus' head is red instead of gray.
* The side of Goldbug's head is yellow instead of black as he wonders if the Decepticons will remain scattered.
* Scattershot's a bad counter. His "about a hundred blips" is actually 28 blips.
* Then it's 39 blips in the closeup.
* The panels on either side of Ultra Magnus's forehead crest are white instead of blue as he walks in on Optimus Prime.
* Goldbug inexplicably has a starry night behind him as he reports the attack to Optimus Prime.
* The side of Wideload's load bed is entirely blue as he passes Rollbar. Only the cover should be blue; the rest should be orange.
* As he leaves the city, Wideload's bed sides are the correct orange, but the bed overhang over his cab is blue instead of orange.
* Strafe and Scattershot don't fly out of the door in Autobot City, but rather right out of the walls above the door.
* Wideload is shown transforming when Magnus orders the Technobots to charge, a bit odd since he's a ''Throttlebot''.
* Punch's mouth briefly disappears as Pounce tackles him.
* Scourge gets a radio muffle as he reports the theft of the key to Galvatron, even though he's right there on-screen.
* One of the Decepticons retreating from the Autobot City battle has Sureshot's color scheme.
* The Decepticons are shown entering the ''[[Revenge (G1)|Revenge]]'' ''through the engine port''... which then immediately lights up to propel the ship into space, presumably melting the entire Decepticon army to slag.
* Wingspan's gun sounds like Prime's rifle.
* Punch's mouth is missing as he points to where the key was stolen.
* As Daniel blasts the Cyclonus pop-up target, both the stick holding the target and the hole that it came from are missing.
* When Hot Rod first transforms to robot mode, the sides of his head are white and his spoiler is entirely yellow (it should be orange in the middle).
* Hardhead is consistently shown with the side of his visor yellow, rather than the blue that one might expect.
* When Crosshairs walks up to Brainstorm's group, he's drawn as a giant Pinpointer.
* The back of Prime's head is white as he and Magnus stand on the bridge of their shuttle.
* The group shot as Prime warns the Autobots not to let Galvatron open the chamber contains some odd members, including the giant Pinpointer, and Optimus Prime himself in Peacemaker's color scheme, but flipped.
* The ''Revenge'' somehow lands on Cybertron's surface without crushing the antenna on its bottom-most point.
* Scourge crawls down a Transformers-sized hatch. A dozen Autobots pursue him by ''getting aboard a shuttle'' and flying after him, though it's not clear if it's supposed to be the same hatch.
* Scourge is missing the pink on his fingernails as he approaches the Plasma Energy Chamber.
* Brainstorm's arm is clipped behind a panel during a shot inside the shuttle, making him look like he's standing outside of it.
* The orange shuttle suddenly has a lot of white as it flies past camera, following the 1st commercial break.
* Cyclonus's cockpit windows aren't colored in as Galvatron orders his troops to go with Scourge.
* Kup's helmet is light gray as he flees from the shuttle.
* The first two Nebulans' dialog is flanged as if they were Transformers.
* As we cut back to the battle on Cybertron, various Constructions, along with the Terrorcons Hun-grrr and Cutthroat, are show firing on... the Terrorcons Blot and Sinnertwin. Blot and Sinnertwin are fighting alongside Hot Spot and First Aid, the latter of whom is colored entirely white, missing his blue eyeband and red details.
* Hot Rod's missing his spoiler as he gets a magnetic bomb placed alongside him.
* As Hot Rod says, "You've got the wrong guys," he has several lines across his head crest instead of just one.
* If they're ''magnetic'' bombs, why do the Nebulans place them on the rocks of the cave walls?
* After the Decepticons arrive, various shots of the Autobots show no trace of the bombs.
* A giant Blowpipe is among the advancing Decepticons.
* Daniel is gnawed and thrown around by Snapdragon, and yet, his uniform remains squeaky clean and show no signs of damage despite Daniel's injuries being described as 'severe'. That must be some tough fabric they use in the future.
* As the Autobots approach the forest, Chromedome and Hardhead both have Nebulans transforming to form their heads, even though they haven't yet undergone the Headmaster process!

===Continuity errors===
* Goldbug and the Technobots reminisce about all the "loose parts" knocked from the Decepticons after Optimus Prime was resurrected. When did that happen, exactly?
* Scattershot claims there's "about a hundred" Decepticons heading towards Autobot City, but the attacking force shown on-screen is only a fraction of that number (Galvatron, 5 future Targetmasters, 6 future Headmasters, 2 clones, 5 Terrorcons = 19 total. If we're generous and include additional Decepticons shown on Cybertron, we can add 6 Constructicons, Sixshot, and 5 Combaticons for a total of 31. Nope, still not a hundred!)
* Furthermore, for a group that's supposed to include "every Decepticon in the known universe", there are some conspicuous absences - the Sweeps, Soundwave, the Predacons and the Stunticons are nowhere to be seen. (Quite a few were phased out of the show because [[to sell toys|their toys were no longer on the shelves]].)
* Where did Galvatron get all those troops from anyway? Did he somehow build a ton of sentient new robots on his own, or were they scattered around the galaxy?
* The outside of the city is already smoking (burning?) before the Decepticons start their attack or fire a single shot.
* Soooo.... why do the Autobots rush headlong to meet their attackers instead of [[The Transformers: The Movie|transforming the city to battle station mode]]?

[[File:TheRebirth pt1 Punch FAILS.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1| ]]
* Pounce and Wingspan probably aren't the smartest guys around but even they can't be stupid enough to fall for Punch's "My Autobot counterpart is nearby" crap.
* Why isn't Cerebros affected by the Plasma Energy when he gets out with Spike to grab the key? It takes Scourge down almost instantly but he doesn't even flinch from it.
* Since when is Scourge big enough to carry a full-sized Transformer as a passenger?
* Lost in the vastness of space, the Autobot ship somehow manages to hit a planet? Cosmically improbable.
* For a ship supposedly moving a million miles per ''second'' (five times the speed of light), with no retro-rockets, the Autobot shuttle makes an incredibly soft landing on Nebulos, splashing down as though it were dropped from about 10 feet up. At that speed, the ship would have incinerated in orbit or, if it made it down intact, slammed into the planet with enough force to do incredible damage. (On the flip side, the million-miles-per-second thing does explain how they got to a completely different planet.)
* As is the norm for just about any children's cartoon, aliens on far-off planets speak perfect English. (And what ever happened to the [[universal greeting]]??)
* Considering they "hate all machines", the resistance sure do have a lot of machines set up in their caves.
* Crosshairs seriously just ''stands there'' and lets Mindwipe carry him off. He's shown unharmed and awake, even though he was among the first to get blasted in the Decepticon assault and was probably intended to be unconscious like the rest of the Autobots taken prisoner.
* Hasn't Arcee ever heard that you're not supposed to move the victim?! She picks up the unconscious Daniel for no other reason than to display affection.
* Gort's description of the Hive ("ten rulers", great mental powers) doesn't really accord with the Tech Spec descriptions of some of Zarak's allies. This wouldn't be a discrepancy within the cartoon, but guys like Nightstick and Fracas act less like super-mental-power rulers and more like the bullies and brutes described in their bios.
* Brainstorm is shown drawing on paper with a manual triangle. Twenty more years into the future, and the super advanced space robots ''still'' [[The Master Builders (episode)|haven't switched to a computer drafting system]].
*There's a line about where to put human-sized controllers into Autobots in robot mode, even though [[Only Human|it was done before]] without any modification.
* Arcana mentions that releasing the Autobots to fight the Decepticons would leave them with twenty machines to deal with instead of just ten. However there are more than 20 as there are ''12'' Autobots and ''10'' Decepticons.

===Continuity notes===
[[File:Rebirth1 CyclonusSixshot.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|"Where did you come from again?" "Whaddaya mean? I was always here."]]
[[File:Targetmasters.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|Typical commercial animation.]]
[[File:Rebirth1 Fastlane Cloudraker Punch.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.1|Typical AKOM crap.]]
* This episode takes place several months after "[[The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 2]]".
* Almost two dozen Transformers make their debuts in this episode. As usual, there's no fuss over where they came from; they're just there.
* Similarly, quite a few familiar faces are gone with no explanation: Springer, the Sweeps, Sky Lynx, Blaster, and Soundwave, just to name a few. In real-life terms, they were removed from the show to make room for new toys.
* Following their abrupt debut in "The Return of Optimus Prime", the Throttlebots get a ''wee'' bit more attention in this episode, though only Rollbar (making his first appearance) actually gets referred to by name. Chase is not shown speaking at any point, but the voice emanating from the Autobot City loudspeaker that warns of a Decepticon attack is probably supposed to be him, as it's delivered by Rob Paulsen, the actor cast for Chase.
* While discussing the Headmaster creation procedure with Chromedome, Brainstorm mentions that it's possible for a Transformer to "download (their memories and personalities) into the auxiliary memory circuits in their chests". Assuming that the aforementioned hardware is a standard feature in all Transformers, it might explain why [[Death|death is just a wee bit inconsistent in fiction]]. Not bad for a throwaway line!
* We're introduced to the [[Plasma Energy Chamber]], a "foundry in which the original Autobots' bodies were forged." In practice, the chamber acts less like a foundry and more like a generator gone wild.
* Daniel getting injured and requiring a robotic body (or in this case, Exo-suit) to survive is reminiscent of [[Autobot X (G1)|a somewhat similar incident involving his father]]. This works out a lot better.

===Trivia===
* "The Rebirth, Part 1", was to be the fourth season premiere, but due to declining interest, it simply was the first of the three final episodes (originally conceived as a ''five''-part story), in which a slew of new characters and concepts were introduced, most notably the US animated version of the Headmasters.
* Like "[[Five Faces of Darkness]]" before it, the "Rebirth" mini-series also got its own introductory [[title sequence]], consisting of some parts of the Season 3 titles spliced together with animation segments from the 1987 toy [[commercial]]s. Unfortunately, the contrast in art and animation quality between the Season 3 credits (animated on the usual low [[AKOM]] budget) and the much higher-quality commercial snippets is jarring, to say the least.
[[File:Rebirth1 Hardhead and Blurr.jpg|right|upright=1.1|thumb|"Ssh, ssh, ssh. It's alright. Don't struggle. Walk into the light."]]
* Your wiki editors will leave it up to the reader to interpret the image at right.

===Foreign localization===
'''German'''
:*''Title:'' '''Die Wiedergeburt, Teil 1''' ("The Rebirth, Part 1")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Japanese'''
:*''Title:'' '''Headmaster Tanjō''' (ヘッドマスター誕生, "The Headmasters Are Born")
:*''Original airdate:'' [[1996]] (home video); [[July 21]], [[2007]] (broadcast)
::*"The Rebirth" was not initially dubbed for Japanese release, instead being replaced by the domestic series ''[[Transformers: The Headmasters (cartoon)|Transformers: The Headmasters]]''. The episodes were eventually dubbed in 1996 as special features on [[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer]]'s [[Wikipedia:LaserDisc|LaserDisc]] and DVD collections. "The Rebirth" received its first Japanese television broadcast in [[2007]], airing on [[Cartoon Network|Cartoon Network Japan]].
::*To further distinguish "The Rebirth" from the continuity of the Japanese series, it was released with the American ''The Transformers'' branding and [[title sequence]]. With a few exceptions (such as "Convoy"), most of the characters are referred to by their Western names. For instance, [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]] is not called "Hot Rodimus", [[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]] is not called "Chear" and so on.
::*With the exception of [[Tesshō Genda]] (Convoy), [[Seizō Katō]] (Galvatron), [[Kunihiko Yasui]] (Rollbar), [[Masashi Hirose]] (Searchlight) and [[Issei Masamune]] ([[narrator]]), all characters were recast with new actors.
::*Voice direction for the 1996 dubbing of "The Rebirth" was conducted by [[Shōzō Tajima]].
::*Due to having been released straight-to-video, this is one of the few episodes of ''The Transformers'' not to have been edited for time in Japan. As such, Japanese DVD and laserdisc releases include an optional English audio track for the episode.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote}}
;VHS
[[File:Flag of Germany.png|20px|Germany]] 1987 — ''Transformers'' — Die Wiedergeburt (Erster Teil) ([[Polyband]]) — German audio only. 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1988 — ''Transformers'' — Headmasters: The Rebirth (Parts, 1, 2 & 3) ([[Tempo Video]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1989 — ''Transformers'' — Headmasters / The Return of Optimus Prime (Tempo Video) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 1991 — ''Transformers'' — Headmasters / The Return of Optimus Prime / Cosmic Rust (Tempo Video) 
[[File:Flag of Canada.png|20px|Canada]] 1998 — ''The Transformers: Generation 2'' — Rebirth: The Movie ([[Malofilm|Behaviour Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2001 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Heroes: The Rebirth ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]])
;[[Wikipedia:LaserDisc|LaserDisc]]
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1996 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1999 — ''The Transformers: 2010'' ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — English and Japanese audio.
;DVD
[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2001 — ''The Transformers: 2010'' — DVD Box (Pioneer LDC) — English and Japanese audio. 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2001 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Heroes: The Rebirth ([[The Original Transformers|Rhino Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2002 — ''Transformers'' — Complete Original Series: Deluxe Edition ([[Maverick Entertainment|Sony Wonder]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2002 — ''Transformers'' — The Rebirth: Parts 1-3 (Sony Wonder) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2004 — ''The Original Transformers'' — Season 3 Part 2 & Season 4 (Rhino Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2004 — ''Transformers'' — Season 3 and Season 4 ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2005 — ''Transformers'' — Collection 6: Series 4 ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Generation One Collection (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of Germany.png|20px|Germany]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — Box-Set (3DVDs) ([[Flex Media]]) — German audio only. 
[[File:Flag of Germany.png|20px|Germany]] 2008 — ''Transformers'' — Box-Set (2DVDs) (Flex Media) — German audio only. 
[[File:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2009 — ''Transformers'' — Season's Three & Four {{sic}} (Metrodome) 
[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — Complete Collection: Decepticon Edition (Madman Entertainment) 
[[File:Flag of USA.png|20px|United States of America]] 2009 — ''The Transformers'' — The Complete Series: 25th Anniversary "Matrix of Leadership" Collection ([[Shout! Factory]]) 
[[File: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/the_rebirth_part_1.html Dossier at the Cybertron Chronicle]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Rebirth, Part 1}}
[[Category:The Transformers episodes]]

Jan - Defend the Campus!!

2012-06-30T20:03:33Z

RQ87-D2: /* Continuity errors */ The Thunder Arrow was right next to the missile launcher when it exploded in the previous episode, so that is why it needed to be repaired at the start of this ep.

{{episode
|series=Victory
|ep=31
|image=Defendthecampus.jpg
|title="Jean - Defend the Campus!!"
|japanese=ジャン・学校を守れ!!
|romaji=Jean - Gakkō o Mamore!!
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[October 31|31 October]] 1989
|writer=[[Hajime Suzuki]]
|director=[[Hiromichi Matano]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''Laster and Holi build a personal mech for Jean, which receives its baptism of fire when the Dinoforce attack his school!'''

:''Omni Productions dub name: '' '''"Meekon Saves the School"'''
:''Also known as:'' '''"Jan, Protect the School"'''
:''Latin-American dub name: '' '''"Marcos Salva la Escuela"'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:Victory31 illumina2.jpg|left|180px|thumb|"Get away from her, you BITCH!"]]
Out in space, the [[Dinoforce]] work to repair the damaged hull of the ''[[Thunder Arrow]]'' while inside, [[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] rages at [[Gōryū]] and the [[Breastforce]]. He blames their incompetence for the failure of their recent mission, and when [[Leozack]] attempts to point out that it was actually the fault of Deathsaurus's miscalculations, he finds himself seized by the head and dangled off the ground. After a tense moment, Deathsaurus calms down and drops Leozack, instructing the [[Decepticon|Decepticons]] to focus their efforts on destroying [[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] and [[Victory Leo]]. Gōryū grins widely, chuckling to himself that he'll be able to show up Leozack with a new plan he has come up with...

While Star Saber is busy seeing [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]] off as the scientist heads back into space, at the [[Shuttle Base]], [[Jean Minakaze|Jean]] and [[Holi]] are staggering through the halls with armfuls of mechanical parts. After refusing to tell the curious [[Wing (Victory)|Wing]] and [[Waver]] what they're up to, they bring the parts to [[Laster]], who is, at Jean's request, constructing a mech for the boy to pilot so that he can help the Autobots more than ever before. When Holi asks what Jean plans to name it, he informs him it's a secret.

[[Image:Victory31 nudgenudgewinkwink.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Is your wife a goer, eh?]]
The following morning, in the forest outside [[Schwimmbad School|Jean's school]], [[Illumina]] waits for Jean to arrive. She is shocked to see Jean's mech stomping up the hill and hides behind a tree, thinking the robot is a Decepticon, but when Jean pops the cockpit and reveals himself, she comes running up in delight. Illumina is not the only one surprised by this sight, however—hiding in the foliage nearby are [[Rairyū]] and [[Kakuryū]], who have been spying on the school as part of Gōryū's plan. After some confusing decision-making, they choose to go and report to their leader, while Illumina climbs aboard Jean's mech, and the pair head to school together. As one of the school's sisters closes the gate, Jean's mech comes leaping over the fence, much to the shock of the pupils and faculty. Illumina's friend [[Joyce]] is particularly suspicious of the pair's "morning drive," but admits that she thinks Jean has got a lot cooler.

[[Image:Victory31 pattycake.jpg|left|180px|thumb|Wonder Twin powers, activate!]]
In the hills around the school, Gōryū prepares the Dinoforce to enact his "Plan For Me and By Me" plan that he came up with, but Kakuryū and Rairyū's report of a "new Autobot" makes him cautious, and the team decides to investigate first. Their "investigation" consists of shooting the living bejeezus out of it, which unfortunately happens just as Jean is giving Illumina, Joyce, [[Rami]] and [[Clump]] a ride. Jean dodges the Decepticon blast completely by accident, but Gōryū is unfazed and decides to press ahead with his plan anyway, ordering the Dinoforce to attack the school in order to draw out Star Saber. Determined to save his friends even though his mech has no offensive weapons, Jean confronts the Decepticon dimwits in a desperate stand-off. With both sides unsure of what move to make, Jean eventually decides to try and lead them away from the school, just as Gōryū decides to try and circle around him. The result is a bizarre high-speed sideways-shuffle by both parties, which ends with the Dinoforce tripping over each other as Jean high-tails it off the campus.

[[Image:Victory31 dinoforcespared.jpg|right|250px|thumb|]]
On the edge of the atmosphere, the returning Star Saber receives an SOS from Holi informing him of the attack on the school, and that Victory Leo has already headed out. Star Saber quickly joins Victory Leo en route, and the pair race to the school, arriving just as Gōryū catches up to Jean's mech and is about to crush it. With Gōryū's foot planted firmly on top of the mech, Star Saber and Victory Leo are unable to do anything as the Dinoforce open fire on them. Jean is able to turn the tide when he releases the only "weapon" his mech has: a barrage of smoke grenades that blinds Gōryū, causing him to stumble backwards and set Jean and his friend free. With Star Saber and Victory Leo staring them down, the villains promptly combine into [[Dinoking]], but the two Autobots follow suite and merge into Victory Saber. Although this would normally spell instant defeat for the Dinoforce, Dinoking has created a new weapon for himself: the mighty "Dinoblater Cannon", which he unleashes upon Victory Saber. Alas, the cannon is no match for Victory Saber's power, and he slices Dinoking back into the Dinoforce with his Saber Blade. As Victory Saber holds his blade aloft over the collapsed pile of Decepticons, Gōryū rises and begs for mercy for his troops, offering to submit to Victory Saber's wrath if they are spared. At Kakuryū's urging, however, the rest of the Dinoforce seize Victory Saber's legs and throw themselves between Gōryū and the Autobot, crying out to their leader to escape. After a moment, Victory Saber sheathes his sword and turns away, tells Gōryū that he has been blessed with good troops, and to rest and heal for their next meeting.

[[Image:Victory31 illumina2andkids.jpg|left|180px|thumb|If you wanna show a girl you like her, name your own warmech after her.]]
As the sun sets over the school, while Victory Saber apologizes to [[Mabel (Victory)|Headmistress Mabel]] for the disturbance, Illumina tells Jean how cool she thinks he looked fighting the Decepticons. Blushing furiously, Jean asks Illumina if it would be okay for him to name his mech after her. Turning just as red, Illumina agrees... at which point Jean reveals that he had already painted the name on, peeling off a strip of paper to reveal the "[[Illumina II]]" logo on the mech's side. Joyce, however, thinks that the "Joyce II" would have been a much better name.

{{-}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Galaxy Shuttle]] (13)
*[[Holi]] (15)
*[[Waver]] (16)
*[[Wing (Victory)|Wing]] (17)
*[[Laster]] (18)
*[[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] (19)
*[[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]] (20)
*[[Victory Leo]] (28)

|c2=
*[[Rairyū]] (1)
*[[Yokuryū]] (2)
*[[Gairyū]] (3)
*[[Kakuryū]] (4)
*[[Killbison]] (5)
*[[Gōryū]] (6)
*[[Hellbat (Victory)|Hellbat]] (7)
*[[Leozack]] (8)
*[[Guyhawk]] (9)
*[[Drillhorn]] (10)
*[[Jallguar]] (11)
*[[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] (12)
*[[Doryū]] (27)
*[[Dinoking]] (29)

|c3=
*[[Jean Minakaze]] (14)
*[[Illumina]] (21)
*[[Rami]] (22)
*[[Joyce]] (23)
*[[Mabel (Victory)|Headmistress Mabel]] (24)
*[[Clump]] (25)
*[[Jean's other classmate]] (26)
}}

==Quotes==
"This time, our plan will be my "Plan For Me and By Me" plan that I came up with! I'm not about to change my precious plan just because an unfamiliar Autobot popped up!"
:—'''Gōryū'''

{{Note|The following quotes are from the Omni Productions dub.}}

"Why are you so secretive?" 
"Because this is a secret!"
:—'''Waver''' and '''Holi'''

"OK, let's fire a missile at them and see what they're gonna do."
:—'''Gōryū'''

"Surrender now, if you're clever!" 
"Oh, darn it!"
:—'''Star Saber''' and '''Gōryū'''

==Notes==
===Lost in translation===
Among the changes made by the [[Omni Productions]] dub:
* In the Japanese dialogue, Kakuryū and Gairyū discuss why their bosses are having a meeting. In the dub, Gairyū says he volunteered for repair duty rather than hang around while Deathsaurus was in a bad mood.
* The Narrator says Perceptor is returning to [[Micro]] and notes that Star Saber is acting as escort.
* The distance that the Dinoforce have to fire is inflated from 2500 metres to 3500.
* Illumina is named Mila in the dub, which doesn't match the name on Jean's mech, but Joyce actually refers to it as the "Irumina II" (see note below on the naming).

===Animation or technical errors===
[[Image:IruminaII.jpg|right|180px|thumb|]]
*The "Illumina II" logo on the side of Jean's mech is the subject of a thorough [[Engrish]]-mangling, appearing as "Irumina II."

===Continuity errors===

* Jean's school, previously named Schwimmbam School in "[[Attack! Leozack]]", is now named Schwimmbad School. Presumably someone caught the spelling error from the previous episode, as Schwimmbad is an actual German word — it means "swimming pool". Oddly enough, the school doesn't appear to have a pool.

===Transformers references===
*Perceptor finally returns to join the main Autobot force in space, after having been on [[Earth]] since "[[Ginrai Dies!!]]" Oddly, [[Minerva (Masterforce)|Minerva]] and [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] are not shown to go with him.

*Jean's classmates return after a prolonged absence from the screen. Illumina, Joyce and Rami haven't been seen in over two-dozen episodes, having last appeared in "[[Move Out! Rescue Team]]", while Clump was more recently featured in "[[Fight to the Death!! Antarctic Battle]]", only eight episodes ago.

===Trivia===
*There was a two-week break between the previous episode and this one when the series originally aired.
*Yet another episode that defers use of one of the show's stock title cards, presenting the title as white-text-on-black.
*This episode features the solitary appearance of Waver in robot mode in the whole dang series. In this episode, he is voiced by [[Shinobu Satouchi‎]], whereas in his only previous speaking appearance, in "Fight to the Death!! Antarctic Battle", he was voiced by [[Yoshikazu Hirano]].
*Breaking with the tradition of the last couple of episodes, Perceptor ''is'' referred to by name for the first time since he began appearing in ''Victory''.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|jsubs}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2003 — ''Transformers: Victory'' — DVD Box 02 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — The Takara Collection Vol 3 — ''Transformers: Victory'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2008 — ''The Transformers: Victory'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) — Optional [[Omni Productions|Omni]] dub. 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) — Optional Omni dub.

[[Category:Victory episodes]]

The Tide Is Turned! The Ultimate Weapon, the Victory Unification

2012-06-30T14:55:32Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Victory
|ep=30
|image=Tideturnedvictoryunification.jpg
|title="The Tide Is Turned! The Ultimate Weapon, the Victory Unification"
|japanese=逆転! 必殺のビクトリー合体
|romaji=Gyakuten! Hissatsu no Victory Gattai
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=17 October 1989
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Jōhei Matsūra]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''Deathsaurus threatens the Earth with orbital missile bombardment to keep the Autobots at bay, but he hasn't reckoned with the ultimate power that is Victory Saber!'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:Victory30 destruction.jpg|left|180px|thumb|]]
[[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] issues his latest threat to the [[Autobot]]s via video-tape, bragging that he has developed a super smart-missile that can strike anywhere in the world. The deadly projectiles are launched from an orbiting satellite and fire automatically, meaning that even Star Saber will be unable to reach the satellite in time to stop their launch. Deathsaurus quickly demonstrates by targeting Sambalpur, [[India]], and despite the speed with which [[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] issues emergency orders, the [[Multiforce]] and [[Rescue Patrol Team|Rescue Team]] arrive at the location only seconds before the missile impacts. Upon impact, the missile detonates and scatters multiple smaller missiles across the immediate area, hitting Kathmandu, Calcutta, the Bay of Bengal and the Deccan Plateau, causing widespread devastation. After providing aid in Kathmandu, the Rescue Team and Multiforce head for Calcutta, after being given one strict order by Star Saber: Do not engage any [[Decepticon]]s under any circumstances. This is Deathsaurus's true goal—using the threat of his new missiles to stay the Autobots' hand so that his forces can freely gather as much energy as they want.

At an oil refinery in [[Pakistan]], [[Leozack]] and the [[Dinoforce]] casually steal energy from a power plant, while Leozack grumbles over the cowardly nature of the plan. When the Autobots learn of this attack, an alarmed Star Saber instructs the [[Brainmaster]]s to head out at once—[[Victory Leo]] is on patrol in Pakistan and is unaware of Deathsaurus's missile plan, meaning that he's sure to attack the Decepticons on sight! Star Saber's fear proves correct as Victory Leo tears through the Dinoforce, dismissing Leozack's warning about the missiles as a bluff. The Brainmasters arrive just in time to stop him before [[Gōryū]] reports the attack to Deathsaurus, and find themselves having to restrain Victory Leo physically.

[[Image:Victory30 victorysaber.jpg|right|180px|thumb|You are the Last Dragon! You possess the power of the Glow!]]
Back at the [[Shuttle Base]], Star Saber realizes that in order to defeat Deathsaurus's scheme, there is only one option: use the special circuit [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]] has implanted within him to combine with Victory Leo. Perceptor tries to dissuade Star Saber from the strategy, fearful of the strain the process will put upon the [[Supreme Commander]]'s body, but Star Saber is resolute and departs.

On their way to Calcutta, [[Wingwaver]], [[Pīpō]], [[Holi]] and [[Jean Minakaze|Jean]] run into [[Jallguar]], [[Guyhawk]] and [[Killbison]], who are in the middle of carrying off some energy, pausing only to mock the Autobots before heading off on their way. In Pakistan, Victory Leo and the Brainmasters are getting the same treatment from the Dinoforce (particularly [[Kakuryū]], who just can't help himself) when Star Saber arrives. Thinking that Star Saber's arrival means that the fighting is back on, Victory Leo charges at Leozack, only to be intercepted by Star Saber, who tries to explain that the true enemy is in space. Victory Leo ignores him and tries to press his attack, forcing Star Saber to lay him out. Predictably, this hurls Victory Leo into a flaming rage, and he unleashes a barrage of blows on Star Saber, but the Supreme Commander does not strike back, simply taking the hits and pleading for Victory Leo to work with him. As their eyes meet and Victory Leo sees the determination in his commander's eyes, he agrees, and the combination circuit implanted in Star Saber's head is activated. Star Saber and Victory Leo transform into their flight modes, fuse together into the colossal "Victory Saber", and immediately rocket into the heavens at monumental speed. With this additional speed, Star Saber is easily able to outrace Deathsaurus's satellite, reaching it before it launches the next volley of missiles. Star Saber and Victory Leo disconnect, transform and recombine into a mighty new Victory Saber robot mode, and are about to destroy the satellite when Deathsaurus himself appears to hold them off. Although he puts up a good fight, Deathsaurus is unable to stand up to Victory Saber's power and is blasted off into space, allowing Victory Saber to destroy the satellite and missiles.

News of victory quickly reaches the Autobots on Earth, and the Brainmasters make short work of Leozack and the Dinoforce, while Wingwaver looks under rocks for Decepticons to fight, much to Holi and Jean's amusement.

{{--}}
==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Wingwaver]] (1)
*[[Dash (Victory)|Dash]] (2)
*[[Tacker]] (3)
*[[Mach]] (4)
*[[Tackle]] (5)
*[[Dashtacker]] (6)
*[[Machtackle]] (7)
*[[Pīpō]] (8)
*[[Holi]] (9)
*[[Boater]] (10)
*[[Fire]] (11)
*[[Galaxy Shuttle]] (13)
*[[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] (14)
*[[Blacker]] (15)
*[[Braver]] (16)
*[[Laster]] (17)
*[[Victory Leo]] (25)
*[[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]] (27)
*[[Minerva (Masterforce)|Minerva]] (28)
*[[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (29)

|c2=
*[[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] (18)
*[[Doryū]] (19)
*[[Yokuryū]] (20)
*[[Kakuryū]] (21)
*[[Gairyū]] (22)
*[[Leozack]] (23)
*[[Gōryū]] (24)
*[[Jallguar]] (30)
*[[Guyhawk]] (31)
*[[Killbison]] (32)
*[[Rairyū]] (33)

|c3=
*[[Jean Minakaze]] (12)

|h4=[[Breast Animal]]s|c4=
*[[Lionbreast]] (26)
}}

==Quotes==

"This isn't a circus! Walk straight!"
:—'''Gōryū''' is unimpressed with Kakuryū's antics.

"What kind of world allows something this stupid?!" 
"Our insides are boiling over this as well!"
:—'''Victory Leo''' and '''Blacker'''

{{Note|The following quotes are from the Omni Productions dub}}

"The evil Decepticons are very devious. They're capable of anything, you know."
:—'''Wingwaver'''

"That evil man!"
:—'''Laster''' on Deathsaurus

"You want to destroy the missiles? Go away!" 
"Deathsaurus, get out of my way!" 
"It's not a threat!"
:—'''Deathsaurus''' and '''Victory Saber''' making even less sense than usual.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*When Victory Leo agrees to work together with Star Saber, Star Saber's head is gray instead of blue.
* While ''Transformers'' has never really striven for realism, at one point when Victory Saber and Deathsaurus are fighting in space, the Decepticon leader unleashes his [[fire-breath]]. In space.
* In the Latin dub, Minerva has a male voice.

===Continuity errors===
* In this episode, both [[Wingwaver]] and [[Boater]] run in robot mode while their team mates roll or fly, presumably because their boat modes wouldn't be able to move across land. In the [[Awaken! Victory Leo|previous episode]], however, [[Waver]] was able to cross the ground despite a distinct lack of wheels.

===Transformers references===
*Perceptor, Wheeljack and Minerva have been on Earth since "[[Ginrai Dies!!]]". The show continues to refrain from actually referring to them by name.
*It was also back in "Ginrai Dies!!" that Victory Leo's body design was established to be a power-up for Star Saber. The combination circuit to allow this merger was implanted in Star Saber's head in the [[Awaken! Victory Leo|previous episode]].

===Foreign dubbing===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''The Indestructible Combination'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
::* Jean says he and Holi were "working in North America" when they got the call to get to India.
::* Instead of wondering if the incoming missile is a dud, Wingwaver shouts that it is a "multi-headed missile" before it's done anything to suggest as such.
::* The four missile targets are listed as "north to Tibet, east to Chungnan island, south to the Pacific Ocean, west to Central Asia". Of course, the ''Indian'' ocean is south of India...
::* Deathsaurus specifically mentions that the missiles he's using are multi-headed missiles in the recorded warning he sent Star Saber, raising the question of why the Autobots were taken by surprise at the missile's nature.
::* As usual, Kakuryū's singing of "[[Cybertron Banzai]]" is absent from the English dub.
::* Gōryū says the energy will explode if Kakuryū drops it.
::* Perceptor says Star Saber's flight speed will be "doubled" rather than multiplied many times.

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Una Combinación Indestuctible'''" ("A Indestructible Combination")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

===Trivia===
* There was a two-week break between the previous episode and this one when the series originally aired.
* Yet another episode that defers use of one of the show's stock title cards, which present the title as white-text-on-black.
* Minerva speaks for the first time since she first appeared in ''Victory''. She has a different voice actress from her ''[[Super-God Masterforce (cartoon)|Super-God Masterforce]]'' appearances.
* When Deathsaurus is told that Star Saber is heading towards his missile launcher, he's seen communicating using a phone as opposed to something more futuristic.
* Deathsaurus's plan with the missile launcher is a little overthought. He decides to tell the Autobots about it and just uses it as a threat to keep them from interfering with his flunkies collecting energy, and never even seems to consider using it on the Autobots.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|jsubs}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2003 — ''Transformers: Victory'' — DVD Box 02 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — The Takara Collection Vol 3 — ''Transformers: Victory'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2008 — ''The Transformers: Victory'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) — Optional [[Omni Productions|Omni]] dub. 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) — Optional Omni dub.

{{DEFAULTSORT:Tide is Turned! The Ultimate Weapon, the Victory Unification}}
[[Category:Victory episodes]]

Crisis! Ambush in the Desert

2012-06-27T19:21:01Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Victory
|ep=24
|image=Crisisdesertambush.jpg
|caption=OBJECTION!
|title="Crisis! Ambush in the Desert"
|japanese=危機! 砂漠の待ち伏せ
|romaji=Kiki! Sabaku no Machibuse
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[September 12|12 September]] 1989
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Hiromichi Matano]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''The Brainmasters stumble into a Decepticon trap in the desert, but luckily for them, Greatshot is on hand to help.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:CrisisAmbushDesert Greatshot ThunderArrow sea.jpg|thumb|200px|left|Oh, like what guy ''doesn't'' have mornings like this?]]
Deciding to visit the [[Autobot]]s on [[Earth]], the weary [[Greatshot]] arrives on the planet and spends the night sleeping in a seaside cave. Awakening the next morning, he looks out over the ocean... only to have the ''[[Thunder Arrow]]'' suddenly burst out of the water!

Meanwhile, the Autobots, currently stationed on the Tibetan Plateau, receive word of an attack by the [[Dinoforce]] on an oil field in the desert. With [[Blacker]] confident that the Dinoforce will pose little problem, the [[Brainmaster]]s head out aboard [[Galaxy Shuttle]] with the [[Rescue Patrol Team]], while [[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] remains on standby in the [[Shuttle Base]]. [[Gōryū]] immediately spots the airborne Autobots as they fly towards the oil field, but merely smirks, instructing the Dinoforce to carry on draining energy. The reason for his complacency soon makes itself clear, as [[Killbison]] and [[Drillhorn]] burst out of the sand and blast the unsuspecting Galaxy Shuttle out of the sky. As the Brainmasters climb out of the wreck and return fire, the two [[Breastforce]] members turn tail, and the Autobot trio quickly transform and give chase. This, it turns out, is all part of the plan, as [[Laster]] and [[Braver]] find themselves unable to manoeuvre in the deep sand, leaving them wipe open for enemy fire. As a dune buggy, Blacker is still able to move freely, and occupies Killbison while his team-mates transform and tackle the burrowing Drillhorn.

[[Image:CrisisAmbushDesert Fire vs Kakuryu.jpg|thumb|200px|right]]
Back at the oil field, the Rescue Team formulate a plan to rescue the captive workers, who are being guarded by the sleeping [[Kakuryū]]. The approach they decide to take is a direct one—[[Fire]] transforms to vehicle mode and rolls right up to the prehistoric pea-brain, who awakens just in time to be blinded by a deluge of foam from Fire's cannons. The workers are rushed to safety aboard Galaxy Shuttle, as the foam-covered Kakuryū staggers away. He eventually finds his way to Gōryū, and requests permission to wash himself off.

[[Image:CrisisAmbushDesert form Road Caesar.jpg|thumb|200px|left]]
Out in the desert, Laster and Braver fall afoul of Drillhorn's subterranean scheme, as he lures them into a patch of loose sand, where they promptly sink up to their waists. As Blacker arrives to help, but can't because he will sink too if he transforms, [[Leozack]] and [[Guyhawk]] emerge from beneath the sand, cackling over the successful deployment of their plan. The Brainmasters merge into [[Road Caesar]] in an attempt to use his strength to break free, but the gestalt only winds up sinking faster, unable to even focus his energy thanks to the hail of Ice Needles Guyhawk rains down upon him. The trio are separated back into their component parts, and Blacker finds Killbison's blaster jammed into the side of his head. Thankfully, Greatshot chooses this moment to arrive, and Guyhawk immediately takes to the sky in search of revenge. Greatshot tricks him into colliding with Leozack, and the two villains are grounded, but they keep up the fight... or rather, they run as fast possible to avoid being run over by the six-changer's car mode. Suddenly, a chasm opens up in the desert sand and Greatshot tumbles in, finding himself on top of the rising ''Thunder Arrow'', which had concealed itself beneath the sand.

[[Image:CrisisAmbushDesert Blacker flesh wound.jpg|thumb|200px|right|All together now: "It's just a flesh wound!"]]
[[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] appears to confront Greatshot himself, impaling his arm with an arrow from his [[Breast Animal]] weapon. [[Hellbat (Victory)|Hellbat]] and [[Jallguar]] also appear and attack Greatshot from both sides, but at the last moment, Blacker leaps to his aid, and has his arm blown off in the effort. With one Autobot injured and two buried in sand, things look bad... but luckily, [[Jean Minakaze|Jean]] has called on Star Saber for help, and the [[Supreme Commander]] comes swooping down out of the sky to quickly airlift Braver and Laster out of the sand so they can get Blacker to safety. While Star Saber transforms to robot mode and clashes with Deathsaurus atop the ''Thunder Arrow'', Greatshot hacks his way through the Breastforce, forcing them to pull out—much to Guyhawk's frustration. With his opponents beating a retreat, Greatshot goes to Star Saber's aid, and together, the pair cripple the ''Thunder Arrow'' and leave Deathsaurus with no option but the better part of valor. At the same time, Braver and Laster leave Blacker in the care of the Rescue Team and return to the oil field, quickly disposing of the Dinoforce by blowing up their [[energon cube]]s.

As the Autobots get back together after the battle, everyone crowds around the injured Blacker. Although he downplays the seriousness of his wounds, he admits that he was too careless in his strategy. Star Saber prefers to think of him as brave, but he can see that the Decepticons are growing desperate, and that Autobot resolve must tighten.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Greatshot]] (1)
*[[Galaxy Shuttle]] (2)
*[[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] (8)
*[[Braver]] (9)
*[[Laster]] (10)
*[[Blacker]] (11)
*[[Fire]] (12)
*[[Holi]] (14)
*[[Boater]] (15)
*[[Pīpō]] (16)
*[[Road Caesar]] (22)

|c2=
*[[Rairyū]] (3)
*[[Yokuryū]] (4)
*[[Gairyū]] (5)
*[[Kakuryū]] (6)
*[[Gōryū]] (7)
*[[Doryū]] (17)
*[[Killbison]] (18)
*[[Drillhorn]] (19)
*[[Leozack]] (20)
*[[Guyhawk]] (21)
*[[Bisonbreast]] (23)
*[[Hornbreast]] (24)
*[[Hawkbreast]] (26)
*[[Hellbat (Victory)|Hellbat]] (27)
*[[Jallguar]] (28)
*[[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] (29)
*[[Tigerbreast]] (30)

|c3=
*[[Jean Minakaze]] (13)

}}

==Quotes==
"I do not have time to play with you!" 
"You're still gonna play with us!"
:—'''Greatshot''' and '''Leozack'''

"I will not forgive a single interloper!"
:—'''Deathsaurus'''

"Huh? How dare they retreat without permission! I suppose there's no point in me straining myself..."
:—'''Deathsaurus''' noting he has achieved his evil deed quota for the week.

{{Note|The following quotes are from the Omni Productions dub}}

"Sure, chief, there's only the dinosaurs—that's no problem. We'll take care of them very easily."
:—'''Blacker''' on the Dinoforce's fearsome reputation.

"I don't get it! Our concentrated energy is being dissipated right now!"
:—'''Road Caesar'''

"You evil swine!"
:—'''Star Saber'''

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
* Normally, the Brainmasters and Breastforce are about the same size in vehicle mode, but Killbison is almost twice as large as Blacker when he's chasing him around.
* As Blacker blocks the attacks meant from Greatshot, his left arm is sent flying through the air. In all future scenes, it is the right arm that was destroyed.
*When Guyhawk suggests the Breastforce unite into Liokaiser, he has goggle eyes instead of individual eyes.

===Continuity errors===
* There is a short and positively ''bizarre'' scene dropped into the middle of this episode, in which Greatshot comes upon a bunch of dead robots in the middle of the desert. He removes a photo of a robot family (!) from the hand of one corpse, and then crumples it, angrily demanding to know what the Decepticons are planning. The ''implication'', one supposes, is that he's followed the ''Thunder Arrow'' this way, and that the Decepticons have killed these robots. Which would be all well and good, except that it's got ''nothing'' to do with the rest of the episode. The Decepticons aren't planning ''anything'' that requires randomly killing some robots… and much more importantly, who the hell ''are'' these dead robots, anyway?! There's never been ''any'' indication that there are any Autobots on Earth except Star Saber's team!
* The sand is shown to be level around the hole which Greatshot falls into, yet after the buried ''Thunder Arrow'' rises into the air, there's clearly a huge section right behind said hole which should have been sticking out of the sand!

===Transformers references===
* Greatshot returns after his previous appearances in "[[Planet Micro - The Mysterious Warrior]]" and "[[Rescue! Guyhawk]]".
* Guyhawk's troubled past with Greatshot was covered in "Rescue! Guyhawk".

===Real-world references===
* Killbison refers to the impending destruction of the Brainmasters as the "end of the [[Wikipedia:The Three Musketeers|Three Autobot Musketeers]]".

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Ambush in the Desert'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
::* The narrator specifically mentions that Greatshot is on his way to Earth from [[Micro]].
::* While Galaxy Shuttle is crashing, Braver announces "Come on Decepticons, we're not scared of you!" instead of mentioning the important information that the landing gear is busted.
::* While applying first aid to Blacker, Pīpō reports that his "control computer" is undamaged.

===Trivia===
* Yet another episode that does away with the standard ''Victory'' title cards, and presents the title as white text on a black screen.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|jsubs}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2003 — ''Transformers: Victory'' — DVD Box 01 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — The Takara Collection Vol 3 — ''Transformers: Victory'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2008 — ''The Transformers: Victory'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) — Optional [[Omni Productions|Omni]] dub. 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) — Optional Omni dub.

[[Category:Victory episodes]]

A Fierce Battle!! The Asteroid

2012-06-21T17:29:15Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode|
|series=Victoon
|ep=16
|title="A Fierce Battle!! The Asteroid"
|japanese=激戦!! アステロイド
|romaji=Gekisen!! Asteroid
|translation=
|image=Fiercebattleasteroid.jpg
|caption=Why they thought the Autobots could help them ''avoid'' [[Ark (G1)|destroying]] a [[Ark II|ship]] is a question best left unanswered.
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|writer=[[Toyohiro Ando]]
|director=[[Jōhei Matsūra]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|airdate=[[July 25|25 July]] 1989
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
''' When spaceships begin disappearing in the asteroid belt, Star Saber disguises himself to investigate personally.'''

==Synopsis==
While passing through the [[asteroid belt]] on its way to [[Jupiter]], the human-piloted ''[[Spaceship 301]]'' suddenly finds itself surrounded by a cloud of clinging, purple fog. The crew broadcast an SOS to the [[Space Center]] on [[Earth]], but communication is suddenly cut off, and all trace of the ship vanishes.

Later, in the [[Autobot]]s' [[Shuttle Base]] on Earth, Jean and the [[Rescue Patrol Team|Rescue Team]] discuss the disappearance of ''Spaceship 301'', which is but the latest in a chain of spaceship disappearances in the asteroid belt, leading to people calling it the "[[Devil's Space Triangle]]". Naturally, the ever-suspicious Autobots suspect that the disappearances are the [[Decepticon]]s' doing, but Jean isn't convinced, since [[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] hasn't bothered to investigate. The [[Supreme Commander]] is, it turns out, otherwise occupied on a strange construction project with the [[Brainmaster]]s and the [[Multiforce]], but even the Multiforce aren't entirely sure what they're building.

[[Image:FierceBattleAsteroid Gairyu energy siphon.jpg|left|thumb|200px]]
Jean and the Rescues' suspicions are right, of course: The ''[[Thunder Arrow]]'' is presently parked on a large asteroid in the belt, and the [[Dinoforce]] are draining energy from the various captured spaceships (although Kakuryū finds the task a bit of a challenge). In a factory the villains have set up on the asteroid, Drillhorn puts the captive human crewmembers to work disassembling their ships for raw materials, which will be used, Deathsaurus explains, to create an "[[energy alloy]]".

[[Image:FierceBattleAsteroid Star Saber fake ship.jpg|right|thumb|200px]]
That night, the strange Autobot construction project is completed, and the Multiforce learn what it is: a large spaceship exo-skeleton that will disguise Star Saber, allowing him to investigate the Devil's Space Triangle without risk of being recognized by the Decepticons. Jean and Holi are suitably impressed, but they and Wingwaver do not like the idea of Star Saber going on the mission alone. Star Saber explains that he's willing to risk his own life if it means he can save the captive humans, and as dawn breaks, he links up with his camouflage mech and heads off into space. Jean is still worried, and even refuses to go to school so he can stay and monitor Star Saber's progress. Once Star Saber crosses into the asteroid belt, however, the Decepticons activate their disrupting smokescreen, cutting off communications. Jean attempts to contact Star Saber, but the other Autobots stop him, as doing so will blow his cover.

[[Image:FierceBattleAsteroid Leozack energy alloy.jpg|left|thumb|200px|I love moi brick!]]
In the asteroid belt, Star Saber is caught in a tractor beam and dragged down to the asteroid on which the ''Thunder Arrow'' is berthed. The Dinoforce investigate and find that the large "spaceship" is unmanned, and Leozack is suspicious of the fine Cybertronian-level craftsmanship. Thankfully, before he can examine Star Saber closely enough, Drillhorn arrives to tell him that the energy alloy is completed, and Leozack rushes off to tell Deathsaurus. While Drillhorn demonstrates the explosive power of the alloy for the Dinoforce, Star Saber quietly disconnects from his disguise to sneak around. Locating the captive humans, he beams a coded signal to the Shuttle Base, and the Brainmasters head for his location aboard the Galaxy Shuttle.

[[Image:FierceBattleAsteroid Laster prisoners.jpg|right|thumb|200px|No, really, I'm serious, you're free!]]
The need for deception over, Star Saber reveals himself to the Decepticons, and a battle erupts. Faced with such overwhelming numbers, Star Saber has the [[V-Star]] attack the ''Thunder Arrow'', putting the energy alloy at risk and dividing the Decepticons by forcing them to defend it. Just as Star Saber is being overwhelmed by the [[Breastforce|Breastforce's]] [[Breast Animal]]s, Galaxy Shuttle arrives with the Brainmasters and blasts the creatures away from him. Star Saber directs the Brainmasters to rescue the humans while he and the V-Star hold off the Breastforce and Dinoforce. When the Dinoforce are beaten and withdraw into the ''Thunder Arrow'', Deathsaurus is forced to pull the ''Thunder Arrow'' out, leaving the Breastforce to deal with Star Saber. Star Saber reconnects with the V-Star for extra power and sends the Breastforce spinning off into space with one mighty swing of his Saber Blade.

Back on Earth, the worried Jean is overjoyed when Star Saber contacts the base to let everyone know that he is okay. Jean professes that he wasn't even worried, earning him a solid thwap from Holi.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Galaxy Shuttle]] (1)
* [[Fire]] (2)
* [[Pīpō]] (3)
* [[Holi]] (5)
* [[Dashtacker]] (6)
* [[Machtackle]] (7)
* [[Boater]] (8)
* [[Laster]] (9)
* [[Braver]] (10)
* [[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] (11)
* [[Blacker]] (12)
* [[Wingwaver]] (13)

|c2=
* [[Doryū]] (14)
* [[Rairyū]] (15)
* [[Yokuryū]] (16)
* [[Gairyū]] (17)
* [[Kakuryū]] (18)
* [[Gōryū]] (19)
* [[Hellbat (Victory)|Hellbat]] (20)
* [[Drillhorn]] (21)
* [[Jallguar]] (22)
* [[Killbison]] (23)
* [[Leozack]] (24)
* [[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] (25)
*[[Lionbreast]] (26)
*[[Hornbreast]] (27)
*[[Bisonbreast]] (28)
*[[Jaguarbreast]] (29)

|c3=
* [[Jean Minakaze]] (4)

}}

==Quotes==
"Hasn't it been some time since one of your plans has succeeded?"
:—'''Deathsaurus''' cuts Leozack deeply.

{{Note|The following quotes are from the Omni Productions dub.}}

"Nyah! What a first class invention!"
:—'''Deathsaurus''' on the energy alloy.

"Don't worry, the chief is very experienced in combat, and the Decepticons are scared even at the mention of his name."
:—'''Laster''' on Star Saber's reputation.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
* As Gōryū watches Kakuryū prepare to ram the door to the ship, the former is drawn with a purple Autobot insignia.
* When Leozack presents Deathsaurus with the energy alloy, the close-up shot of his arms has them colored blue instead of green.

===Continuity errors===
* The opening narration notes that the asteroid belt is between [[Jupiter]] and [[Mars (planet)|Mars]]. Guess someone forgot (''Again!'') that Mars got destroyed in "[[Explosion on Mars!! MegaZarak Appears]]," back during ''[[The Headmasters (cartoon)|The Headmasters]]''.

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Combat in the Meteorite Zone'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
::* The asteroid belt is consistently referred to as the "meteorite zone".
::* Deathsaurus's pointed comment in the Japanese version about Leozack's plans is replaced by Deathsaurus being pleased with the way Leozack's plan is working. Then it cuts to Leozack looking annoyed.
::* The ''Thunder Arrow'' is referred to as the "energy vault".
::* The narrator refers to Shuttle Base as "the Decepticon headquarters".

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''La Zona de los Meteoritos'''" ("The Meteorite Zone")

===Trivia===
* Ambient sound effects on the ''Spaceship 301'' are bridge sound effects from the original ''Star Trek'' series.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|jsubs}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2003 — ''Transformers: Victory'' — DVD Box 01 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — The Takara Collection Vol 3 — ''Transformers: Victory'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2008 — ''The Transformers: Victory'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) — Optional [[Omni Productions|Omni]] dub. 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) — Optional Omni dub.

{{DEFAULTSORT:Fierce Battle!! The Asteroid}}
[[Category:Victory episodes]]

The New Warrior - Hellbat

2012-06-16T20:10:45Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Victory
|ep=10
|image=Newwarriorhellbat.jpg
|caption=Worst membership drive ever, Night Thrasher.
|title="The New Warrior - Hellbat"
|japanese=新兵士・ヘルバット
|romaji=Shinheishi - Hellbat
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[May 30|30 May]] 1989
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Hiromichi Matano]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''Braver invents a device that tracks Decepticon brainwaves, just in time for it to detect the evil deeds of the Breastforce's newest member, Hellbat.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:Hellbat hypnotism.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
Aboard the ''[[Thunder Arrow]]'' somewhere in the depths of the ocean, [[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] listens as [[Leozack]] lists off the latest in a litany of excuses for his repeated failures. A roar from Deathsaurus's Tigerbreast prompts Leozack to cut to the chase and explain that he has just put a new information-gathering plan into motion. The target of this plan is the [[New Energy Resource Research and Development Laboratory]] in [[Japan]], where new minerals from across the galaxy are studied to discern their energy potential, but intrusion into their computer system is immediately detected by one alert scientist. The scientist heads down to the lab's computer centre, where he spots a sinister shadow interfering with the computer core. When he demands the person show themselves, however, the scientist is shocked when a giant robotic bat reveals itself and smashes through the wall to the outside. Peering out the hole left by the creature, the scientist watches as it attaches itself to the chest of a waiting Decepticon, who introduces himself as the fifth member of the [[Breastforce]]—[[Hellbat (Victory)|Hellbat]]! The scientist sounds the alarm and Autobot and human troops come running, but in the course of the fight, stray shots from the Autobot troopers ignite fuel tanks on the laboratory complex. As the area begins going up in flames, Hellbat eschews any further physical combat in exchange for a swift getaway, and, with an eerie chant, unleashes a hypnotic sonic wave that makes his opponents fall unconscious.

[[Image:NewWarriorHellbat Braver making device.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
Meanwhile, as part of an [[Autobot]] initiative to become more proactive in the campaign against the [[Decepticon]]s, [[Braver]] has been busy developing a brainwave scanner that will pick up Decepticon signals. [[Jean Minakaze|Jean]] and [[Holi]] are particularly impressed and eager to give it a try, and Braver fires it up to show them how it works, but the group is shocked when it actually picks up a Decepticon signature nearby! They inform the other Autobots, and a correlation with the report of the Decepticon attack on the Energy Resource lab is quickly drawn as [[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]], the [[Brainmaster|Brainmasters]] and the [[Rescue Patrol Team|Rescue Team]] roll out.

The signature, of course, is that of Hellbat, who is meeting with the other members of the Breastforce in the nearby mountains. Leozack is not best pleased that Hellbat was not able to keep his activities a secret, and decides to forego small-scale data theft and simply take the entire contents of the lab.

[[Image:NewWarriorHellbat Blacker energy drain.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
The Autobots, meanwhile, have already arrived at the lab to help. As the Rescue Team get the fire under control, Jean assures the laboratory chief [[Ogaki|Doctor Ogaki]] that things will be okay. Asking Jean his last name, Ogaki reveals that he knew Jean's father, Doctor Minakaze, and tells the boy stories of his father's life and work. Star Saber confirms that no vital data was stolen in Hellbat's attack, and heads off to join the other Brainmasters, who are lying in wait to ambush the approaching Breastforce. The trap is sprung before Star Saber can arrive, however, and [[Blacker]] clashes with Hellbat, feeling the full force of his hypnosis waves. Blacker isn't one to take it lying down, however—he draws his sword and ''stabs himself in the leg'' to prevent himself from passing out. Hellbat has more tricks up his sleeve, of course, and unleashes his Breast Animal, which latches onto Blacker and begins draining his energy.

[[Image:NewWarriorHellbat Braver's headache attack.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
While [[Laster]] deals with [[Drillhorn]], riding him around like a bucking bronco, Star Saber arrives to duel Leozack in mid-air. [[Killbison]] attempts to shoot Star Saber down, but Braver seizes his cannons and spins them around, using them to blast Blacker free of Hellbat's Batbreast. When Star Saber manages to shoot Leozack out of the sky, the Decepticon orders all his teammates to unleash their Breast Animals on him. The little creatures manages to damage the [[V-Star]] enough that Star Saber has to disconnect from it and attack Leozack in robot mode, but Hellbat is quick to act and unleashes his hypnosis waves on the [[Supreme Commander]]. As the other Breastforcers hold off the Brainmasters, Leozack prepares to finish the incapacitated Star Saber when Braver has a literal brainstorm—by inverting polarities on his scanner, he is able to project an energy wave that scrambles the Decepticons' brainwaves. With the villains reduced to moaning, head-clutching heaps, Star Saber combines with the V-Star again and sends Leozack and Hellbat fleeing. The remaining Breastforces are surrounded by the Brainmasters and threatened with another dose of the scrambler, prompting them to make themselves scarce.

Just when things seem to be over, at the last second, Leozack swoops back in and snatches the brainwave detector right out of Braver's hands, disappearing over the horizon before the Autobots can do anything. Although unhappy at losing his only prototype, Braver realizes that it is unlikely the Decepticons will be able to use the device for evil, and the Autobots return to the laboratory to finish off the repair work. There, Doctor Ogaki thanks them for their efforts, and Jean promises to come back to visit in the future.

Back at the ''Thunder Arrow'', Deathsaurus is not a happy bunny. No energy data was obtained, and he soon discovers that the "new weapon" that Leozack believes he has acquired only affects and reacts to Decepticons! After giving Leozack a dose of the scrambling waves to prove his point, Deathsaurus feeds the detector to his Tigerbreast and orders the Breastforce leader to get out of his sight. Hellbat quietly observes the whole affair, remarking to himself that he could do a much better job than Leozack...

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Galaxy Shuttle]] (1)
*[[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] (2)
*[[Braver]] (4)
*[[Holi]] (5)
*Autobot guards (12)
*[[Blacker]] (13)
*[[Laster]] (14)
*[[Fire]] (15)
*[[Pīpō]] (16)

|c2=
*[[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] (6)
*[[Tigerbreast]] (7)
*[[Kōmoribreast]] (10)
*[[Leozack]] (8)
*[[Hellbat (Victory)|Hellbat]] (11)
*[[Jallguar]] (17)
*[[Drillhorn]] (18)
*[[Killbison]] (19)
*[[Lionbreast]] (21)
*[[Bisonbreast]] (22)
*[[Jaguarbreast]] (23)
*[[Hornbreast]] (24)

|c3=
*[[Jean Minakaze]] (3)
*Scientists (9)
*[[Ogaki]] (20)

}}

==Quotes==
"They sure are fast when they're running away!"
:—'''Braver''' re the Decepticons.

{{note|The following quotes are from the Omni Productions dub.}}

"If you want to keep working here, you better get me the energy I need!"
:—'''Deathsaurus''', the ultimate pointy-haired boss.

"Well, well, so these are the hypnotic waves. Good! CARRY ON!"
:—'''Leozack''' is pleased with Hellbat.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
[[Image:New Warrior Date Room.jpg|thumb|]]
*The door leading to the computer data room is amusingly labeled "DATE ROOM" in its first shot. It is the correct "DATA ROOM" in the next shot.
*At one point during the aerial battle between Star Saber and Leozack, Star Saber's lasers are Decepticon pink rather than Autobot green.

===Continuity errors===
* The two Autobot guards who Hellbat encounters while leaving the lab are identical designs with faceplates, however later when Star Saber speaks to them, one of the guards has become a different design with no faceplate.

===Transformers references===
*The fate of Jean's parents was previously detailed in "[[Attack! Leozack]]", as was the fact that his father was a mineralogist.

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''The New Rival, Hellbat'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
::* Jean says that Braver's invention detects ''human'' brainwaves. Fortunately Braver clarifies that it detects Decepticons.
::* Rather than claiming to Deathsaurus that he has a new plan, Leozack says his men have been searching for new sources of energy, but have drawn a blank.

===Trivia===
[[Image:NewWarriorHellbat Leozack legkick.jpg|thumb|right|200px|In today's episode, Leozack will be played by Scott Bernard.]]
*This episode lacks either of Victory's two stock title cards, opting for white text on a black background.
*Just because it cannot be emphasized enough: '''''BLACKER STABBED HIMSELF IN THE LEG WITH HIS OWN SWORD''''', just to avoid falling victim to Hellbat's hypnosis waves. Blacker is ''hardcore''.
*When he fights Star Saber in jet mode, Leozack kicks his legs out in order to fly backwards. This kind of partial [[transformation]] is rare in ''Transformers'' fiction—[[Jetfire (G1)|Skyfire]] did it a couple of times in the ''[[The Transformers (cartoon)|Transformers]]'' cartoon, though it would be seen extensively in ''[[Transformers Animated (cartoon)|Animated]]''.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|jsubs}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2003 — ''Transformers: Victory'' — DVD Box 01 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — The Takara Collection Vol 3 — ''Transformers: Victory'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2008 — ''The Transformers: Victory'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) — Optional [[Omni Productions|Omni]] dub. 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) — Optional Omni dub.

{{DEFAULTSORT:New Warrior - Hellbat}}
[[Category:Victory episodes]]

The New Warrior - Hellbat

2012-06-16T20:10:26Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Victory
|ep=10
|image=Newwarriorhellbat.jpg
|caption=Worst membership drive ever, Night Thrasher.
|title="The New Warrior - Hellbat"
|japanese=新兵士・ヘルバット
|romaji=Shinheishi - Hellbat
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[May 30|30 May]] 1989
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Hiromichi Matano]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''Braver invents a device that tracks Decepticon brainwaves, just in time for it to detect the evil deeds of the Breastforce's newest member, Hellbat.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:Hellbat hypnotism.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
Aboard the ''[[Thunder Arrow]]'' somewhere in the depths of the ocean, [[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] listens as [[Leozack]] lists off the latest in a litany of excuses for his repeated failures. A roar from Deathsaurus's Tigerbreast prompts Leozack to cut to the chase and explain that he has just put a new information-gathering plan into motion. The target of this plan is the [[New Energy Resource Research and Development Laboratory]] in [[Japan]], where new minerals from across the galaxy are studied to discern their energy potential, but intrusion into their computer system is immediately detected by one alert scientist. The scientist heads down to the lab's computer centre, where he spots a sinister shadow interfering with the computer core. When he demands the person show themselves, however, the scientist is shocked when a giant robotic bat reveals itself and smashes through the wall to the outside. Peering out the hole left by the creature, the scientist watches as it attaches itself to the chest of a waiting Decepticon, who introduces himself as the fifth member of the [[Breastforce]]—[[Hellbat (Victory)|Hellbat]]! The scientist sounds the alarm and Autobot and human troops come running, but in the course of the fight, stray shots from the Autobot troopers ignite fuel tanks on the laboratory complex. As the area begins going up in flames, Hellbat eschews any further physical combat in exchange for a swift getaway, and, with an eerie chant, unleashes a hypnotic sonic wave that makes his opponents fall unconscious.

[[Image:NewWarriorHellbat Braver making device.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
Meanwhile, as part of an [[Autobot]] initiative to become more proactive in the campaign against the [[Decepticon]]s, [[Braver]] has been busy developing a brainwave scanner that will pick up Decepticon signals. [[Jean Minakaze|Jean]] and [[Holi]] are particularly impressed and eager to give it a try, and Braver fires it up to show them how it works, but the group is shocked when it actually picks up a Decepticon signature nearby! They inform the other Autobots, and a correlation with the report of the Decepticon attack on the Energy Resource lab is quickly drawn as [[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]], the [[Brainmaster|Brainmasters]] and the [[Rescue Patrol Team|Rescue Team]] roll out.

The signature, of course, is that of Hellbat, who is meeting with the other members of the Breastforce in the nearby mountains. Leozack is not best pleased that Hellbat was not able to keep his activities a secret, and decides to forego small-scale data theft and simply take the entire contents of the lab.

[[Image:NewWarriorHellbat Blacker energy drain.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
The Autobots, meanwhile, have already arrived at the lab to help. As the Rescue Team get the fire under control, Jean assures the laboratory chief [[Ogaki|Doctor Ogaki]] that things will be okay. Asking Jean his last name, Ogaki reveals that he knew Jean's father, Doctor Minakaze, and tells the boy stories of his father's life and work. Star Saber confirms that no vital data was stolen in Hellbat's attack, and heads off to join the other Brainmasters, who are lying in wait to ambush the approaching Breastforce. The trap is sprung before Star Saber can arrive, however, and [[Blacker]] clashes with Hellbat, feeling the full force of his hypnosis waves. Blacker isn't one to take it lying down, however—he draws his sword and ''stabs himself in the leg'' to prevent himself from passing out. Hellbat has more tricks up his sleeve, of course, and unleashes his Breast Animal, which latches onto Blacker and begins draining his energy.

[[Image:NewWarriorHellbat Braver's headache attack.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
While [[Laster]] deals with [[Drillhorn]], riding him around like a bucking bronco, Star Saber arrives to duel Leozack in mid-air. [[Killbison]] attempts to shoot Star Saber down, but Braver seizes his cannons and spins them around, using them to blast Blacker free of Hellbat's Batbreast. When Star Saber manages to shoot Leozack out of the sky, the Decepticon orders all his teammates to unleash their Breast Animals on him. The little creatures manages to damage the [[V-Star]] enough that Star Saber has to disconnect from it and attack Leozack in robot mode, but Hellbat is quick to act and unleashes his hypnosis waves on the [[Supreme Commander]]. As the other Breastforcers hold off the Brainmasters, Leozack prepares to finish the incapacitated Star Saber when Braver has a literal brainstorm—by inverting polarities on his scanner, he is able to project an energy wave that scrambles the Decepticons' brainwaves. With the villains reduced to moaning, head-clutching heaps, Star Saber combines with the V-Star again and sends Leozack and Hellbat fleeing. The remaining Breastforces are surrounded by the Brainmasters and threatened with another dose of the scrambler, prompting them to make themselves scarce.

Just when things seem to be over, at the last second, Leozack swoops back in and snatches the brainwave detector right out of Braver's hands, disappearing over the horizon before the Autobots can do anything. Although unhappy at losing his only prototype, Braver realizes that it is unlikely the Decepticons will be able to use the device for evil, and the Autobots return to the laboratory to finish off the repair work. There, Doctor Ogaki thanks them for their efforts, and Jean promises to come back to visit in the future.

Back at the ''Thunder Arrow'', Deathsaurus is not a happy bunny. No energy data was obtained, and he soon discovers that the "new weapon" that Leozack believes he has acquired only affects and reacts to Decepticons! After giving Leozack a dose of the scrambling waves to prove his point, Deathsaurus feeds the detector to his Tigerbreast and orders the Breastforce leader to get out of his sight. Hellbat quietly observes the whole affair, remarking to himself that he could do a much better job than Leozack...

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Galaxy Shuttle]] (1)
*[[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] (2)
*[[Braver]] (4)
*[[Holi]] (5)
*Autobot guards (12)
*[[Blacker]] (13)
*[[Laster]] (14)
*[[Fire]] (15)
*[[Pīpō]] (16)

|c2=
*[[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] (6)
*[[Tigerbreast]] (7)
*[[Kōmoribreast]] (10)
*[[Leozack]] (8)
*[[Hellbat (Victory)|Hellbat]] (11)
*[[Jallguar]] (17)
*[[Drillhorn]] (18)
*[[Killbison]] (19)
*[[Lionbreast]] (21)
*[[Bisonbreast]] (22)
*[[Jaguarbreast]] (23)
*[[Hornbreast]] (24)

|c3=
*[[Jean Minakaze]] (3)
*Scientists (9)
*[[Ogaki]] (20)

}}

==Quotes==
"They sure are fast when they're running away!"
:—'''Braver''' re the Decepticons.

{{note|The following quotes are from the Omni Productions dub.}}

"If you want to keep working here, you better get me the energy I need!"
:—'''Deathsaurus''', the ultimate pointy-haired boss.

"Well, well, so these are the hypnotic waves. Good! CARRY ON!"
:—'''Leozack''' is pleased with Hellbat.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
[[Image:New Warrior Date Room.jpg|thumb|]]
*The door leading to the computer data room is amusingly labeled "DATE ROOM" in its first shot. It is the correct "DATA ROOM" in the next shot.
*At one point during the aerial battle between Star Saber and Leozack, Star Saber lasers are Decepticon pink rather than Autobot green.

===Continuity errors===
* The two Autobot guards who Hellbat encounters while leaving the lab are identical designs with faceplates, however later when Star Saber speaks to them, one of the guards has become a different design with no faceplate.

===Transformers references===
*The fate of Jean's parents was previously detailed in "[[Attack! Leozack]]", as was the fact that his father was a mineralogist.

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''The New Rival, Hellbat'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
::* Jean says that Braver's invention detects ''human'' brainwaves. Fortunately Braver clarifies that it detects Decepticons.
::* Rather than claiming to Deathsaurus that he has a new plan, Leozack says his men have been searching for new sources of energy, but have drawn a blank.

===Trivia===
[[Image:NewWarriorHellbat Leozack legkick.jpg|thumb|right|200px|In today's episode, Leozack will be played by Scott Bernard.]]
*This episode lacks either of Victory's two stock title cards, opting for white text on a black background.
*Just because it cannot be emphasized enough: '''''BLACKER STABBED HIMSELF IN THE LEG WITH HIS OWN SWORD''''', just to avoid falling victim to Hellbat's hypnosis waves. Blacker is ''hardcore''.
*When he fights Star Saber in jet mode, Leozack kicks his legs out in order to fly backwards. This kind of partial [[transformation]] is rare in ''Transformers'' fiction—[[Jetfire (G1)|Skyfire]] did it a couple of times in the ''[[The Transformers (cartoon)|Transformers]]'' cartoon, though it would be seen extensively in ''[[Transformers Animated (cartoon)|Animated]]''.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|jsubs}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2003 — ''Transformers: Victory'' — DVD Box 01 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — The Takara Collection Vol 3 — ''Transformers: Victory'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2008 — ''The Transformers: Victory'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) — Optional [[Omni Productions|Omni]] dub. 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) — Optional Omni dub.

{{DEFAULTSORT:New Warrior - Hellbat}}
[[Category:Victory episodes]]

Explosion!! The Energy Base

2012-06-16T09:37:50Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Victory
|ep=7
|image=Energybaseexplosion.jpg
|caption=He's totally going to trip over that title if he doesn't look where he's running.
|title="Explosion!! The Energy Base"
|japanese=爆破!! エネルギー基地
|romaji=Bakuha!! Energy Kichi
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[May 9|9 May]] 1989
|writer=[[Hiroyuki Hoshiyama]]
|director=[[Yoshikata Nitta]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''Blacker and Wingwaver must set aside their differences as they search the Amazon for the Decepticons' new energy base.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:Victory energybase basebird.jpg|left|180px|thumb|This is the Decepticons' energy storage base. No, really, it is.]]
Somewhere deep in the Amazon jungle, the [[Decepticon]]s have constructed a new energy storage base, and the [[Dinoforce]] have been put to work transferring the Decepticons' amassed energy from the ''[[Thunder Arrow]]'' into the base. At the same time, [[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] explains to [[Leozack]] that the energy is merely a small fraction of what will be required to effect his ultimate goal, the true reason for his campaign against [[Earth]]—the reactivation of his massive, planet-destroying battle fortress, which [[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] long ago sealed within the [[Dark Nebula]].

It is not long before the [[Autobot]]s catch wind of the Decepticons' activities in the Amazon, as [[Machtackle]] and [[Dashtacker]] report to Star Saber that they saw the ''Thunder Arrow'' heading for the jungle while on patrol. [[Wingwaver]] offers to go into the jungle with them in order to recapture the operation, but [[Blacker]], not trusting the judgement or skill of the young Autobot, requests that he be allowed to lead the mission instead. Star Saber agrees, and instructs them only to determine the amount of energy, so that he can assess the danger posed. Wingwaver is not best pleased, snapping at Blacker not to call him a kid, but nonetheless, the team heads off for the Amazon aboard the [[Galaxy Shuttle]].

[[Image:Victory energybase yokuryu.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Just transform, ya idjit!]]
The trip is a short one, and the team makes a mid-air drop into the jungle about three kilometers from the base, intending to use a nearby river to approach with stealth. [[Tackle]], [[Dash (Victory)|Dash]] and [[Tacker]] clear a path in vehicle mode with Wingwaver and Blacker following behind them, but when Blacker gives Wingwaver yet another condescending order and drives off, the Multiforce leader strikes a tree in anger. This loud crash causes a flock of birds to burst out of the canopy and fly away, catching the attention of Dinoforce member [[Yokuryū]], who is patrolling the skies above. Blacker immediately realizes what has happened and has Dashtacker and Machtackle take cover in the river while he goes back and drags Wingwaver to cover. From their vantage point, the pair watch has Yokuryū leaves his [[Pretender]] shell to keep watch while he reports back to the other Decepticons.

A little later, as Yokuryū makes his report, Blacker and Wingwaver catch up to the other Multiforcers, but for some reason, Dashtacker does not emerge from the river. The other three Autobots wait for him on the river bank, unaware that [[Gōryū]] and [[Rairyū]] are closing in around them. Just as a stream of bubbles breaks the surface of the river, the Autobots are forced to dive for cover as Yokuryū flies by. The Decepticon spots the bubbles and begins to part the water by creating a gale with his wings, leaving Blacker with no option but to dive straight in and recover Dashtacker, who had become stuck in the mud on the river bed. As he hauls them to safety, the Dinoforce attack, and Blacker discovers that the villains are jamming their communicators, leaving them unable to contact Star Saber. Blacker instructs Wingwaver to lead the Multiforce away, so that they can contact the Autobots while he distracts the Dinoforce.

[[Image:Victory energybase rairyu.jpg|left|180px|thumb|However will Blacker defeat such opposition?]]
Blacker's chase leads into nightfall, and as darkness settles over the Amazon, the Dinoforce catch up to the [[Brainmaster]]. Simultaneously, the Multiforce draw close to the Galaxy Shuttle, at which point Wingwaver instructs his two teammates to carry on their way to the shuttle and contact Star Saber, while he goes back to aid Blacker. Dashtacker and Machtackle's protestations fall on non-functional audio receptors, of course, and they proceed to contact Star Saber (who, it turns out, has already left the Autobot base for their location, having become concerned when he could not reach them).

[[Image:Victory energybase leomissi.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Leozack's hidden missile compartment is where his breast unit should be... and are those his hands?]]
Wingwaver, meanwhile, heads back into the jungle and arrives just in time to save a wounded Blacker from the Dinoforce. Blacker and Wingwaver lead the Dinoforce away from the energy base, and manage to shoot Yokuryū out of the air just as Star Saber passes by overhead. Star Saber realizes that Blacker is serving as a decoy to keep the Dinoforce occupied and the energy base undermanned, and heads there immediately. Deathsaurus has realized the same thing, and has Leozack hasten the remaining Dinoforce members to load the remaining energy so they can pull out. Star Saber attacks swiftly and brutally, and Deathsaurus escapes aboard the ''Thunder Arrow'' with what energy he has, instructing Leozack to blow up what remains and take Star Saber with it. Thankfully, Leozack doesn't get the chance to deliver the finishing blow, as Star Saber bests him and sends him fleeing.

With the Decepticons routed, Star Saber meets up with Blacker and Wingwaver, and Blacker writes off the shambles that the operation descended into on his own carelessness. Realizing that he is attempting to cover for him, Wingwaver tries to speak up, but the Galaxy Shuttle arrives and he can't finish his sentence. Star Saber is, of course, fully aware of what Blacker is doing, and simply asks that he not call Wingwaver a kid anymore.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Galaxy Shuttle]] (10)
*[[Blacker]] (11)
*[[Machtackle]] (12)
*[[Dashtacker]] (13)
*[[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] (14)
*[[Wingwaver]] (15)
*[[Mach]] (16)
*[[Tackle]] (17)
*[[Dash (Victory)|Dash]] (18)
*[[Tacker]] (19)
*[[Holi]] (22)

|c2=
*[[Doryū]] (1)
*[[Gairyū]] (2)
*[[Gōryū]] (3)
*[[Kakuryū]] (4)
*[[Rairyū]] (5)
*[[Leozack]] (6)
*[[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] (7)
*[[Tigerbreast]] (8)
*[[Eaglebreast]] (9)
*[[Yokuryū]] (20)
*[[Lionbreast]] (23)

|c3=
*[[Jean Minakaze]] (21)

}}

==Quotes==
"For the lifeforms in the jungle where only the fittest survive, our presence as well as the Decepticons' is upsetting to them!"
:—'''Blacker''' goes into nature show host mode.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*The cone mounted on Wingwaver's back disappears when he and the other Autobots jump out of Galaxy Shuttle.
*When the Multiforce look at Galaxy Shuttle from a distance, Wingwaver's legs are blue instead of white.
*On the R4 episodes, part of the English soundtrack is out of sync with the picture. It's especially noticeable at one point when Leozack takes a step and the sound effect comes half a second late.

===Continuity notes===
*It's unclear just how much energy the Decepticons lose in this campaign, but it's striking that Deathsaurus doesn't bother to come out and help his men fight Star Saber, considering how much was at stake.
*In another example of odd character use, when Yokuryū is knocked off his shell in mid-flight, he clings desperately to it, trying not to fall. If he'd just transformed, he could have flown to safety, or at least glided. On the other hand, this odd moment is consistent with the fact that the Dinoforce members never transform into their creature modes throughout the entire series. Way to sell the toys, Japan.
*When fighting Leozack there's a merge sequence (mercifully) missing, between when Saber cuts Leozack's wing and when he lands in full Star Saber mode.
*Also, the weird thing is, six minutes into the episode, Machtackle Multi-Outs, and then Dashtacker's components are shown driving down the jungle, before Dashtacker HIMSELF Multi-Outs. Ay-yi-yi. Way to confuse some people, Toei and Takara.

===Transformers references===
*The Dark Nebula was name-checked back in "[[The Brave Hero of the Universe - Star Saber]]", where Star Saber noted that he had previously sealed Deathsaurus within it. With this episode, we learn that he wasn't all that got sealed—the looming threat of Deathsaurus's fortress will drive the ''Victory'' plot (such as it is) for the rest of the series.
*The enmity between Blacker and Wingwaver was first hinted at in "[[Sneak Attack! Dinoking]]", and established more firmly in "[[Infiltration... The Uranium Mine]]".

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Attack on the Energy Storage Plant'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
::*Blacker calls Wingwaver a "young man", rather than a kid. To which Wingwaver responds "I've told you before: don't call me young man!" even though it's the first time in the dub version in which Blacker's done so!
::*Rather than pointing out they're going in the opposite direction from the energy storage base, Wingwaver simply remarks that the base "isn't here".

===Trivia===
[[Image:Victory energybase yokuryu2.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Okay, robot rides pterasaur? That is awesome.]]

*There was a two-week break between the airing of the previous episode and this one.
*The birds in this jungle are strange. Giant robots tromping about, vehicles driving around and giant predators flying overhead don't rattle them... but someone smacking his gun on a tree trunk? That sends them into a panic.
*In this episode Yokuryū takes a leaf out of his boss's book and rides on top of his Pretender shell while flying around on patrol.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|jsubs}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2003 — ''Transformers: Victory'' — DVD Box 01 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — The Takara Collection Vol 3 — ''Transformers: Victory'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2008 — ''The Transformers: Victory'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) — Optional [[Omni Productions|Omni]] dub. 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) — Optional Omni dub.

[[Category:Victory episodes]]

Move Out! Rescue Team

2012-06-14T18:44:04Z

RQ87-D2: /* Quotes */

{{episode
|series=Victory
|ep=5
|image=Moveoutrescueteam.jpg
|caption=Why are ''Micro''masters so darn big?
|title="Move Out! Rescue Team"
|japanese=出勤!レスキュー部隊
|romaji=Shutsudō! Rescue-Butai
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[April 18|18 April]] 1989
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Takao Yoshizawa]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''Holi's fellow Rescue Team members arrive on Earth just in time to help when the Decepticons attack an amusement park.'''

==Synopsis==
On a tiny desert island, the [[Dinoforce]] are busy training. As [[Yokuryū]] weaves through the air to avoid coconuts lobbed by [[Doryū]] and [[Gōryū]] wrestles with [[Gairyū]], [[Kakuryū]] uses a tree for a punching bag, only to wind up being crushed beneath it when he accidentally uproots it. [[Leozack]] soon arrives, and instructs the Dinoforce to come with him to help in his latest plan.

[[Image:Victory moveout teleport.jpg|left|180px|thumb|(Insert joke about Scotty and beaming here)]]
Meanwhile, at the [[Autobot]]s' [[Rocket Base|Shuttle Base]], [[Holi]] and [[Jean Minakaze|Jean]] are showing [[Illumina]] around (and, of course, arguing in the process). Shortly after Illumina is given a demonstration of the base's teleporters, the group is met by [[Boater]], [[Fire]] and [[Pīpō]], the other members of Holi's [[Rescue Patrol Team|Rescue Team]], who have just arrived on Earth. Holi is not particularly happy with their overly-familiar attitude towards him, and instructs them to call him "leader", much to Jean and Illumina's amusement. After introductions, Illumina realizes that she is late for a trip to the [[Ocean Exhibition]] amusement park with her friends. But wouldn't you know it? The Ocean Exhibition is the target of Leozack and the Dinoforce!

[[Image:Victory moveout girls.jpg|right|180px|thumb|How come fans obsess over Minerva and not them? Err... actually, don't tell me. I don't wanna know.]]
Leozack intends to take over the park and convert it into a base for himself, revealing to Gōryū his intention to one day overthrow [[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] and lead the Decepticons himself. Gōryū isn't particularly impressed, but decides to go along with the stunt anyway, and the Dinoforce attack just as Illumina and her friends are watching a dolphin show. The park is quickly decimated, and Leozack lectures the humans on his greatness from atop an archway while Kakuryū messes around with some of the park's attractions, and winds up collapsing two pillars on top of himself. Illumina and her friends, meanwhile, have taken refuge with a large group of other park patrons. When a young girl named [[Emily (Victory)|Emily]] wanders into the path of some precarious wreckage, Illumina dives to save her and both of them are buried beneath the rubble.

News of the attack quickly reaches the Autobots, and [[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] leads the [[Brainmaster]]s and the Rescue Team to the rescue of the guests. Towed by Star Saber and Boater, the whole team water-skis to the park, where Jean begins searching for Illumina. Leozack positions himself in front of a building full of humans forcing the Autobots to hold back, but the Dinoforce don't quite manage to grasp his strategy, and the Brainmasters are able to lure them away and fight them properly. With Leozack distracted by this moment of sheer stupidity, Star Saber uses the [[V-Star]] to evacuate the building Leozack is exploiting, and swordfights with him as Saber. Meanwhile, as the Rescue Team continue to carry the humans to safety, Jean and Holi find the buried Illumina and Emily, and Holi manages to lift the rubble long enough for them to run to safety. At the same time, the battle between the Brainmasters and Dinoforce escalates into a fight between [[Road Caesar]] and [[Dinoking]], but when Saber recombines with the V-Star into Star Saber and sends Leozack fleeing, Dinoking takes a critical hit and joins the [[Breastforce]]r in escaping.

[[Image:Victory moveout leoarch.jpg|left|180px|thumb|Hold on... this isn't St. Louis!]]
Back at the Decepticon base, Leozack attempts to bluff Deathsaurus by claiming that his goal was to make a seawater energy conversion base. Deathsaurus says nothing and silently stalks away, with Leozack stammering and shouting after him while the Dinoforce all snicker.

As the Autobots finish up their clean-up operations at the park, Holi happily reports that the last group of humans is being taken to safety as they speak, and that there were no casualties. Jean compliments Holi on his leadership skills, but Holi points out that that's because he ''is'' the leader. After much over-the-top laughter, the Autobots prepare to start repairing the damage to the park, and Boater shouts out from across the ocean not to forget about him.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Galaxy Shuttle]] (8)
*[[Holi]] (9)
*[[Boater]] (12)
*[[Pīpō]] (13)
*[[Fire]] (14)
*[[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] (15)
*[[Blacker]] (18)
*[[Braver]] (19)
*[[Laster]] (20)
*[[Road Caesar]] (22)

|c2=
*[[Yokuryū]] (1)
*[[Doryū]] (2)
*[[Gōryū]] (3)
*[[Gairyū]] (4)
*[[Kakuryū]] (5)
*[[Rairyū]] (6)
*[[Leozack]] (7)
*[[Dinoking]] (23)
*[[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] (24)

|c3=
*[[Illumina]] (10)
*[[Jean Minakaze]] (11)
*[[Joyce]] (16)
*[[Rami]] (17)
*[[Emily (Victory)|Emily]] (21)
}}

==Quotes==

"Is everything okay with this guy's head?"
:—'''Gōryū''' questions Leozack's intelligence.

"Out of all of the limitless Decepticons, only I have intelligence that is sharper than a razor! And I will prove it to you a hundred times over!"
:—'''Leozack'''

{{Note|The following quotes are from the Omni Productions dub}}

"Huh, darn monster!"
:—'''Laster''' on the Dinoforce or possibly just Gōryū. Or maybe Leozack—it's not really clear.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
[[Image:Victory moveout scaleproble.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Holy crap! That's a massive Fire.]]
*That old saw, [[scale]] is insanely out of whack this episode in regards to the Micromasters. Sometimes they're towering over the humans, other times they're barely taller than them. It's particularly noticeable with Boater, who transforms inside the base into a boat that could maybe fit one person, then later on he's huge enough to carry dozens of passengers.
*For much of this episode, the Decepticon insignia on Leozack's chest is missing its "cheeks". It also switches sides for a few shots after Leozack jumps off the arch.
*When Leozack draws out his electromagnetic nunchaku, his hands are green instead of gray.

===Real world references===
* While "sparring" with the tree and playing with the park attractions, Kakuryū sings the show's closing theme tune, "[[Cybertron Banzai]]" ("Hooray for the Autobots"), or more specifically, its repeated refrain of "chinchinchin chichinpui!" This is a nonsense phrase similar to "abracadabra" used to accompany the idea of making something magically disappear. It might be said, for instance, by mother kissing a wounded knee as part of the whole idea of making the pain go away. Specifically, in the song itself, it refers to the Autobots getting rid of the Decepticons, or if you prefer, making "the bad guys all go… chinchinchin chichinpui!"

* After a brief chewing out by Gōryū, Kakuryū really lets the tree have it with a howl of "Dosukoi!" This is another semi-nonsense word, specifically used by sumo wrestlers.

===Transformers references===
[[Image:Victory moveout waterski.jpg|right|180px|thumb|WHEEEEEE!]]
*The Autobots continue the fine tradition of Transformers loving [[The Ultimate Doom, Part 3|water sports]] (get your mind out of the gutter), by water-skiing into battle this time.

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Move Out, Rescue Team!'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
::* Kakuryū no longer sings the closing theme while messing around (see note below).
::* Holi makes the astounding claim that the teleporter capsules are "three dimension time machines".
::* Rather than being impressed at Holi's importance after the rescue team salute him, Illumina observes that the rescue team are smart.
::* Holi tells Boater to hurry up, rather than reminding him to address Holi as leader.
::* As is usual, Leozack's fight banter is toned down, and his points about having concealed weapons are gone.
::* Rather than telling Deathsaurus that the plan was to turn the place into an energy conversion planet, Leozack claims he thought there was an energy reserve beneath the sea.

===Trivia===
*This episode is the first appearance of the entire Rescue Patrol team, with the debut of Fire, Pīpō and Boater.
*Jean is shocked to discover that Holi is the leader of a team. Guess Holi just never mentioned it.
*Jean and Holi tell Illumina that there are teleport pods in every room in the base. Considering how many of them there must be (there's usually enough for every character who happens to be hanging around) that must make the smaller rooms in the base pretty cramped.
[[Image:Victory moveout transout.jpg|right|180px|thumb|I'm outta here, you're crazy!]]
*Gairyū's Trans-Out (that is, exiting his shell) sequence this episode, while styled after the typical stock-animation Trans-Out sequence is actually a unique piece of animation which features a view of him coming out of his shell not seen elsewhere. It's neat. Plus, his shell is totally wigging out at the time.
*How, exactly, does Saber get free from Leozack's weapons so he can combine with the V-Star?

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|jsubs}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2003 — ''Transformers: Victory'' — DVD Box 01 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — The Takara Collection Vol 3 — ''Transformers: Victory'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2008 — ''The Transformers: Victory'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) — Optional [[Omni Productions|Omni]] dub. 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) — Optional Omni dub.

[[Category:Victory episodes]]

Move Out! Rescue Team

2012-06-14T17:12:18Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Victory
|ep=5
|image=Moveoutrescueteam.jpg
|caption=Why are ''Micro''masters so darn big?
|title="Move Out! Rescue Team"
|japanese=出勤!レスキュー部隊
|romaji=Shutsudō! Rescue-Butai
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[April 18|18 April]] 1989
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Takao Yoshizawa]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''Holi's fellow Rescue Team members arrive on Earth just in time to help when the Decepticons attack an amusement park.'''

==Synopsis==
On a tiny desert island, the [[Dinoforce]] are busy training. As [[Yokuryū]] weaves through the air to avoid coconuts lobbed by [[Doryū]] and [[Gōryū]] wrestles with [[Gairyū]], [[Kakuryū]] uses a tree for a punching bag, only to wind up being crushed beneath it when he accidentally uproots it. [[Leozack]] soon arrives, and instructs the Dinoforce to come with him to help in his latest plan.

[[Image:Victory moveout teleport.jpg|left|180px|thumb|(Insert joke about Scotty and beaming here)]]
Meanwhile, at the [[Autobot]]s' [[Rocket Base|Shuttle Base]], [[Holi]] and [[Jean Minakaze|Jean]] are showing [[Illumina]] around (and, of course, arguing in the process). Shortly after Illumina is given a demonstration of the base's teleporters, the group is met by [[Boater]], [[Fire]] and [[Pīpō]], the other members of Holi's [[Rescue Patrol Team|Rescue Team]], who have just arrived on Earth. Holi is not particularly happy with their overly-familiar attitude towards him, and instructs them to call him "leader", much to Jean and Illumina's amusement. After introductions, Illumina realizes that she is late for a trip to the [[Ocean Exhibition]] amusement park with her friends. But wouldn't you know it? The Ocean Exhibition is the target of Leozack and the Dinoforce!

[[Image:Victory moveout girls.jpg|right|180px|thumb|How come fans obsess over Minerva and not them? Err... actually, don't tell me. I don't wanna know.]]
Leozack intends to take over the park and convert it into a base for himself, revealing to Gōryū his intention to one day overthrow [[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] and lead the Decepticons himself. Gōryū isn't particularly impressed, but decides to go along with the stunt anyway, and the Dinoforce attack just as Illumina and her friends are watching a dolphin show. The park is quickly decimated, and Leozack lectures the humans on his greatness from atop an archway while Kakuryū messes around with some of the park's attractions, and winds up collapsing two pillars on top of himself. Illumina and her friends, meanwhile, have taken refuge with a large group of other park patrons. When a young girl named [[Emily (Victory)|Emily]] wanders into the path of some precarious wreckage, Illumina dives to save her and both of them are buried beneath the rubble.

News of the attack quickly reaches the Autobots, and [[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] leads the [[Brainmaster]]s and the Rescue Team to the rescue of the guests. Towed by Star Saber and Boater, the whole team water-skis to the park, where Jean begins searching for Illumina. Leozack positions himself in front of a building full of humans forcing the Autobots to hold back, but the Dinoforce don't quite manage to grasp his strategy, and the Brainmasters are able to lure them away and fight them properly. With Leozack distracted by this moment of sheer stupidity, Star Saber uses the [[V-Star]] to evacuate the building Leozack is exploiting, and swordfights with him as Saber. Meanwhile, as the Rescue Team continue to carry the humans to safety, Jean and Holi find the buried Illumina and Emily, and Holi manages to lift the rubble long enough for them to run to safety. At the same time, the battle between the Brainmasters and Dinoforce escalates into a fight between [[Road Caesar]] and [[Dinoking]], but when Saber recombines with the V-Star into Star Saber and sends Leozack fleeing, Dinoking takes a critical hit and joins the [[Breastforce]]r in escaping.

[[Image:Victory moveout leoarch.jpg|left|180px|thumb|Hold on... this isn't St. Louis!]]
Back at the Decepticon base, Leozack attempts to bluff Deathsaurus by claiming that his goal was to make a seawater energy conversion base. Deathsaurus says nothing and silently stalks away, with Leozack stammering and shouting after him while the Dinoforce all snicker.

As the Autobots finish up their clean-up operations at the park, Holi happily reports that the last group of humans is being taken to safety as they speak, and that there were no casualties. Jean compliments Holi on his leadership skills, but Holi points out that that's because he ''is'' the leader. After much over-the-top laughter, the Autobots prepare to start repairing the damage to the park, and Boater shouts out from across the ocean not to forget about him.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Galaxy Shuttle]] (8)
*[[Holi]] (9)
*[[Boater]] (12)
*[[Pīpō]] (13)
*[[Fire]] (14)
*[[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] (15)
*[[Blacker]] (18)
*[[Braver]] (19)
*[[Laster]] (20)
*[[Road Caesar]] (22)

|c2=
*[[Yokuryū]] (1)
*[[Doryū]] (2)
*[[Gōryū]] (3)
*[[Gairyū]] (4)
*[[Kakuryū]] (5)
*[[Rairyū]] (6)
*[[Leozack]] (7)
*[[Dinoking]] (23)
*[[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] (24)

|c3=
*[[Illumina]] (10)
*[[Jean Minakaze]] (11)
*[[Joyce]] (16)
*[[Rami]] (17)
*[[Emily (Victory)|Emily]] (21)
}}

==Quotes==
"Out of all of the limitless Decepticons, only I have intelligence that is sharper than a razor! And I will prove it to you a hundred times over!"
:—'''Leozack'''

{{Note|The following quotes are from the Omni Productions dub}}

"Huh, darn monster!"
:—'''Laster''' on the Dinoforce or possibly just Gōryū. Or maybe Leozack—it's not really clear.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
[[Image:Victory moveout scaleproble.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Holy crap! That's a massive Fire.]]
*That old saw, [[scale]] is insanely out of whack this episode in regards to the Micromasters. Sometimes they're towering over the humans, other times they're barely taller than them. It's particularly noticeable with Boater, who transforms inside the base into a boat that could maybe fit one person, then later on he's huge enough to carry dozens of passengers.
*For much of this episode, the Decepticon insignia on Leozack's chest is missing its "cheeks". It also switches sides for a few shots after Leozack jumps off the arch.
*When Leozack draws out his electromagnetic nunchaku, his hands are green instead of gray.

===Real world references===
* While "sparring" with the tree and playing with the park attractions, Kakuryū sings the show's closing theme tune, "[[Cybertron Banzai]]" ("Hooray for the Autobots"), or more specifically, its repeated refrain of "chinchinchin chichinpui!" This is a nonsense phrase similar to "abracadabra" used to accompany the idea of making something magically disappear. It might be said, for instance, by mother kissing a wounded knee as part of the whole idea of making the pain go away. Specifically, in the song itself, it refers to the Autobots getting rid of the Decepticons, or if you prefer, making "the bad guys all go… chinchinchin chichinpui!"

* After a brief chewing out by Gōryū, Kakuryū really lets the tree have it with a howl of "Dosukoi!" This is another semi-nonsense word, specifically used by sumo wrestlers.

===Transformers references===
[[Image:Victory moveout waterski.jpg|right|180px|thumb|WHEEEEEE!]]
*The Autobots continue the fine tradition of Transformers loving [[The Ultimate Doom, Part 3|water sports]] (get your mind out of the gutter), by water-skiing into battle this time.

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Move Out, Rescue Team!'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
::* Kakuryū no longer sings the closing theme while messing around (see note below).
::* Holi makes the astounding claim that the teleporter capsules are "three dimension time machines".
::* Rather than being impressed at Holi's importance after the rescue team salute him, Illumina observes that the rescue team are smart.
::* Holi tells Boater to hurry up, rather than reminding him to address Holi as leader.
::* As is usual, Leozack's fight banter is toned down, and his points about having concealed weapons are gone.
::* Rather than telling Deathsaurus that the plan was to turn the place into an energy conversion planet, Leozack claims he thought there was an energy reserve beneath the sea.

===Trivia===
*This episode is the first appearance of the entire Rescue Patrol team, with the debut of Fire, Pīpō and Boater.
*Jean is shocked to discover that Holi is the leader of a team. Guess Holi just never mentioned it.
*Jean and Holi tell Illumina that there are teleport pods in every room in the base. Considering how many of them there must be (there's usually enough for every character who happens to be hanging around) that must make the smaller rooms in the base pretty cramped.
[[Image:Victory moveout transout.jpg|right|180px|thumb|I'm outta here, you're crazy!]]
*Gairyū's Trans-Out (that is, exiting his shell) sequence this episode, while styled after the typical stock-animation Trans-Out sequence is actually a unique piece of animation which features a view of him coming out of his shell not seen elsewhere. It's neat. Plus, his shell is totally wigging out at the time.
*How, exactly, does Saber get free from Leozack's weapons so he can combine with the V-Star?

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|jsubs}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2003 — ''Transformers: Victory'' — DVD Box 01 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — The Takara Collection Vol 3 — ''Transformers: Victory'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2008 — ''The Transformers: Victory'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) — Optional [[Omni Productions|Omni]] dub. 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) — Optional Omni dub.

[[Category:Victory episodes]]

Move Out! Rescue Team

2012-06-14T17:11:49Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Victory
|ep=5
|image=Moveoutrescueteam.jpg
|caption=Why are ''Micro''masters so darn big?
|title="Move Out! Rescue Team"
|japanese=出勤!レスキュー部隊
|romaji=Shutsudō! Rescue-Butai
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[April 18|18 April]] 1989
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Takao Yoshizawa]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''Holi's fellow Rescue Team members arrive on Earth just in time to help when the Decepticons attack an amusement park.'''

==Synopsis==
On a tiny desert island, the [[Dinoforce]] are busy training. As [[Yokuryū]] weaves through the air to avoid coconuts lobbed by [[Doryū]] and [[Gōryū]] wrestles with [[Gairyū]], [[Kakuryū]] uses a tree for a punching bag, only to wind up being crushed beneath it when he accidentally uproots it. [[Leozack]] soon arrives, and instructs the Dinoforce to come with him to help in his latest plan.

[[Image:Victory moveout teleport.jpg|left|180px|thumb|(Insert joke about Scotty and beaming here)]]
Meanwhile, at the [[Autobot]]s' [[Rocket Base|Shuttle Base]], [[Holi]] and [[Jean Minakaze|Jean]] are showing [[Illumina]] around (and, of course, arguing in the process). Shortly after Illumina is given a demonstration of the base's teleporters, the group is met by [[Boater]], [[Fire]] and [[Pīpō]], the other members of Holi's [[Rescue Patrol Team|Rescue Team]], who have just arrived on Earth. Holi is not particularly happy with their overly-familiar attitude towards him, and instructs them to call him "leader", much to Jean and Illumina's amusement. After introductions, Illumina realizes that she is late for a trip to the [[Ocean Exhibition]] amusement park with her friends. But wouldn't you know it? The Ocean Exhibition is the target of Leozack and the Dinoforce!

[[Image:Victory moveout girls.jpg|right|180px|thumb|How come fans obsess over Minerva and not them? Err... actually, don't tell me. I don't wanna know.]]
Leozack intends to take over the park and convert it into a base for himself, revealing to Gōryū his intention to one day overthrow [[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] and lead the Decepticons himself. Gōryū isn't particularly impressed, but decides to go along with the stunt anyway, and the Dinoforce attack just as Illumina and her friends are watching a dolphin show. The park is quickly decimated, and Leozack lectures the humans on his greatness from atop an archway while Kakuryū messes around with some of the park's attractions, and winds up collapsing two pillars on top of himself. Illumina and her friends, meanwhile, have taken refuge with a large group of other park patrons. When a young girl named [[Emily (Victory)|Emily]] wanders into the path of some precarious wreckage, Illumina dives to save her and both of them are buried beneath the rubble.

News of the attack quickly reaches the Autobots, and [[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] leads the [[Brainmaster]]s and the Rescue Team to the rescue of the guests. Towed by Star Saber and Boater, the whole team water-skis to the park, where Jean begins searching for Illumina. Leozack positions himself in front of a building full of humans forcing the Autobots to hold back, but the Dinoforce don't quite manage to grasp his strategy, and the Brainmasters are able to lure them away and fight them properly. With Leozack distracted by this moment of sheer stupidity, Star Saber uses the [[V-Star]] to evacuate the building Leozack is exploiting, and swordfights with him as Saber. Meanwhile, as the Rescue Team continue to carry the humans to safety, Jean and Holi find the buried Illumina and Emily, and Holi manages to lift the rubble long enough for them to run to safety. At the same time, the battle between the Brainmasters and Dinoforce escalates into a fight between [[Road Caesar]] and [[Dinoking]], but when Saber recombines with the V-Star into Star Saber and sends Leozack fleeing, Dinoking takes a critical hit and joins the [[Breastforce]]r in escaping.

[[Image:Victory moveout leoarch.jpg|left|180px|thumb|Hold on... this isn't St. Louis!]]
Back at the Decepticon base, Leozack attempts to bluff Deathsaurus by claiming that his goal was to make a seawater energy conversion base. Deathsaurus says nothing and silently stalks away, with Leozack stammering and shouting after him while the Dinoforce all snicker.

As the Autobots finish up their clean-up operations at the park, Holi happily reports that the last group of humans is being taken to safety as they speak, and that there were no casualties. Jean compliments Holi on his leadership skills, but Holi points out that that's because he ''is'' the leader. After much over-the-top laughter, the Autobots prepare to start repairing the damage to the park, and Boater shouts out from across the ocean not to forget about him.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Galaxy Shuttle]] (8)
*[[Holi]] (9)
*[[Boater]] (12)
*[[Pīpō]] (13)
*[[Fire]] (14)
*[[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] (15)
*[[Blacker]] (18)
*[[Braver]] (19)
*[[Laster]] (20)
*[[Road Caesar]] (22)

|c2=
*[[Yokuryū]] (1)
*[[Doryū]] (2)
*[[Gōryū]] (3)
*[[Gairyū]] (4)
*[[Kakuryū]] (5)
*[[Rairyū]] (6)
*[[Leozack]] (7)
*[[Dinoking]] (23)
*[[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] (24)

|c3=
*[[Illumina]] (10)
*[[Jean Minakaze]] (11)
*[[Joyce]] (16)
*[[Rami]] (17)
*[[Emily (Victory)|Emily]] (21)
}}

==Quotes==
"Out of all of the limitless Decepticons, only I have intelligence that is sharper than a razor! And I will prove it to you a hundred times over!"
:—'''Leozack'''

{{Note|The following quotes are from the Omni Productions dub}}

"Huh, darn monster!"
:—'''Laster''' on the Dinoforce or possibly just Gōryū. Or maybe Leozack—it's not really clear.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
[[Image:Victory moveout scaleproble.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Holy crap! That's a massive Fire.]]
*That old saw, [[scale]] is insanely out of whack this episode in regards to the Micromasters. Sometimes they're towering over the humans, other times they're barely taller than them. It's particularly noticeable with Boater, who transforms inside the base into a boat that could maybe fit one person, then later on he's huge enough to carry dozens of passengers.
*For much of this episode, the Decepticon insignia on Leozack's chest is missing its "cheeks". It also switches sides for a few shots after Leozack jumps off the arch.
-When Leozack draws out his electromagnetic nunchaku, his hands are green instead of gray.

===Real world references===
* While "sparring" with the tree and playing with the park attractions, Kakuryū sings the show's closing theme tune, "[[Cybertron Banzai]]" ("Hooray for the Autobots"), or more specifically, its repeated refrain of "chinchinchin chichinpui!" This is a nonsense phrase similar to "abracadabra" used to accompany the idea of making something magically disappear. It might be said, for instance, by mother kissing a wounded knee as part of the whole idea of making the pain go away. Specifically, in the song itself, it refers to the Autobots getting rid of the Decepticons, or if you prefer, making "the bad guys all go… chinchinchin chichinpui!"

* After a brief chewing out by Gōryū, Kakuryū really lets the tree have it with a howl of "Dosukoi!" This is another semi-nonsense word, specifically used by sumo wrestlers.

===Transformers references===
[[Image:Victory moveout waterski.jpg|right|180px|thumb|WHEEEEEE!]]
*The Autobots continue the fine tradition of Transformers loving [[The Ultimate Doom, Part 3|water sports]] (get your mind out of the gutter), by water-skiing into battle this time.

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Move Out, Rescue Team!'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
::* Kakuryū no longer sings the closing theme while messing around (see note below).
::* Holi makes the astounding claim that the teleporter capsules are "three dimension time machines".
::* Rather than being impressed at Holi's importance after the rescue team salute him, Illumina observes that the rescue team are smart.
::* Holi tells Boater to hurry up, rather than reminding him to address Holi as leader.
::* As is usual, Leozack's fight banter is toned down, and his points about having concealed weapons are gone.
::* Rather than telling Deathsaurus that the plan was to turn the place into an energy conversion planet, Leozack claims he thought there was an energy reserve beneath the sea.

===Trivia===
*This episode is the first appearance of the entire Rescue Patrol team, with the debut of Fire, Pīpō and Boater.
*Jean is shocked to discover that Holi is the leader of a team. Guess Holi just never mentioned it.
*Jean and Holi tell Illumina that there are teleport pods in every room in the base. Considering how many of them there must be (there's usually enough for every character who happens to be hanging around) that must make the smaller rooms in the base pretty cramped.
[[Image:Victory moveout transout.jpg|right|180px|thumb|I'm outta here, you're crazy!]]
*Gairyū's Trans-Out (that is, exiting his shell) sequence this episode, while styled after the typical stock-animation Trans-Out sequence is actually a unique piece of animation which features a view of him coming out of his shell not seen elsewhere. It's neat. Plus, his shell is totally wigging out at the time.
*How, exactly, does Saber get free from Leozack's weapons so he can combine with the V-Star?

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|jsubs}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2003 — ''Transformers: Victory'' — DVD Box 01 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — The Takara Collection Vol 3 — ''Transformers: Victory'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2008 — ''The Transformers: Victory'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) — Optional [[Omni Productions|Omni]] dub. 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) — Optional Omni dub.

[[Category:Victory episodes]]

Unite!! Multiforce

2012-06-13T19:53:17Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Victory
|ep=4
|image=Unitemultiforce.jpg
|caption=Landcross would quickly discover the folly of attempting to light his farts.
|title="Unite!! Multiforce"
|japanese=合体!! マルチ戦隊
|romaji=Gattai!! Multisentai
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[April 11|11 April]] 1989
|writer=[[Hajime Suzuki]]
|director=[[Katsutoshi Sasaki]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''The Multiforce seek to prove themselves in battle against the Dinoforce.'''

==Synopsis==
In an asteroid field somewhere in space, aboard the ''[[Thunder Arrow]]'', the [[Decepticon]]s gather before [[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]]'s throne in preparation for their latest strike on [[Earth]]. [[Leozack]] and his newly-arrived [[Breastforce]] teammates [[Jallguar]], [[Killbison]] and [[Drillhorn]] explain their plan for attacking an energy plant to the [[Dinoforce]]. Rather than simply steal the energy, however, they plan to steal the entire plant and use its facilities to constantly generate more energy for their war effort.

[[Image:Victory ep4 leverage.jpg|thumb|200px|left]]
Elsewhere on Earth, the [[Multiforce]] teach [[Jean Minakaze|Jean]] about the principle of levers by showing him how to move a large rock with a stick. [[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] soon arrives and sends the Multiforce out on patrol, extra-wary now that the Decepticons have been confirmed as having arrived on Earth. Jean begs to be taken along and [[Wingwaver]] agrees, but not a lot of patrolling gets done as Jean wastes everyone's time making [[Wing (Victory)|Wing]] take him flying. As Wing sets down beside the rest of the team along a shoreline and Jean hops out of his cockpit, a dark, burning cloud on the horizon catches everyone's attention...

[[Image:Victory ep4 dinochase.jpg|thumb|200px|right]]
Mere moments previously, at the energy plant that is the Decepticons' target, [[Peter|one of the workers]] takes a break from his appointed task to feed an abandoned puppy that he found in the city streets and has been caring for. Suddenly, the plant is rocked by an explosion as [[Yokuryū]] bombs it from above, and the rest of Dinoforce emerge from the ocean and start wreaking havoc (both on the plant, and thanks to their clumsiness, on each other). The explosions they create are the cause of the cloud that draws the Multiforce to the plant, and Wing engages Yokuryū in an aerial duel while [[Dashtacker]] and [[Machtackle]] make an especially dramatic entrance as they confront the rest of the Dinoforce. Wing manages to blast Yokuryū out of the sky, but he crashes back into the midst of the rest of the Dinoforce, allowing the reunited team to merge into [[Dinoking]]. The Multiforce refuse to call for help, wanting to prove themselves as warriors, but Jean takes reports to Star Saber anyway, and he and the [[Brainmaster|Brainmasters]] head for the energy plant. Immediately after making his report, however, Jean is attacked by [[Rairyū]]'s [[Pretender]] shell, but is pulled to safety at the last second by some of the factory workers.

[[Image:Victory ep4 sandhide.jpg|thumb|200px|left|Hmmm....Must've taken a wrong turn at Albuquerque...]]
Outside the energy plant, the Breastforce emerge from beneath the sand, having detected Jean's transmission and intending to be ready for Star Saber's arrival. As they make their way into the base, the Multiforce is just about to initiate their own combination, but Leozack blasts them before they can merge. Thankfully for the Multiforce, an argument breaks out between Dinoking and the Breastforce about the amount of destruction the combiner is causing, giving the Autobots the time the need to link up into [[Landcross (Victory)|Landcross]]! Things start looking up even more when Star Saber and the Brainmasters arrive, with the Brainmasters taking on Jallguar and Killbison while their Supreme Commander aids Landcross against Dinoking.

[[Image:Victory ep4 leverage2.jpg|thumb|200px|right]]
As the battle rages above, Jean and the factory workers find themselves trapped in an underground section of the plant. There, they are approached by a puppy, and the workers all recognize it as the pet of their friend. They follow it as it leads them to its master, who has been trapped beneath a collapsed pipe which none of the men can lift the pipe. Luckily, Jean is able to put the principle of levers to work, and together, they all elevate the pipe and the man is hauled to safety.

Back up top, Star Saber topples Dinoking, who splits back into the Dinoforce. The cowardly Decepticons make themselves scarce instantly, and, faced with the towering forms of both Star Saber and Landcross, the Breastforce quickly do the same. Star Saber tells Landcross to always call on him for help when he needs it, because they have not simply come to Earth to fight. Their goal is to protect Earth and mankind, and Landcross vows that he will do this as best he can.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Dashtacker]] (13)
*[[Machtackle]] (14)
*[[Wingwaver]] (15)
*[[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] (17)
*[[Wing (Victory)|Wing]] (19)
*[[Waver]] (20)
*[[Mach]] (21)
*[[Dash (Victory)|Dash]] (22)
*[[Tacker]] (23)
*[[Tackle]] (24)
*[[Braver]] (26)
*[[Laster]] (27)
*[[Blacker]] (28)
*[[Landcross (Victory)|Landcross]] (29)

|c2=
*[[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] (1)
*[[Tigerbreast]] (2)
*[[Jallguar]] (3)
*[[Killbison]] (4)
*[[Drillhorn]] (5)
*[[Leozack]] (6)
*[[Gōryū]] (7)
*[[Rairyū]] (8)
*[[Doryū]] (9)
*[[Yokuryū]] (10)
*[[Gairyū]] (11)
*[[Kakuryū]] (12)
*[[Dinoking]] (25)

|c3=
*[[Jean Minakaze|Jean]] (16)
*[[Peter]] (18)
}}

==Quotes==
"The stupidity of you fools is as limitless as the universe."
:—'''Leozack''' on the Dinoforce.

"Wherever the Decepticons may appear, we will be there to drive them away!"
:—'''Machtackle''', hamming it up.

"You're 100,000 years too young to try and beat me in an aerial battle!"
:—'''Yokuryū''' tries to assert superiority over Wing.

"Who's your leader, troops?" 
"The great Gōryū!" 
"Oh, right. Run away!"
:—'''Gōryū''' leads the rest of the '''Dinoforce''' in a retreat.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*As seen in the above picture, Jallguar's helmet is orange instead of black when the Breastforce is poking their heads out of the sand.
*When Dinoking stands over the fallen Landcross, his eyes are blue instead of red.

===Continuity notes===
*Wing makes a rare solo appearance this episode, actually fighting Yokuryū, then joining the rest of Multiforce to fight the Dinoforce directly. Unfortunately Waver seems to get forgotten and he simply sits on the shore in boat mode for most of the episode—even visible in the background of several fight scenes sitting there doing nothing. When it comes time for Multiforce to unite, Wing and Waver have already recombined, though we don't get to see when.
*Wingwaver teaches Jean about levers. Later in the episode he has to use a lever to save a man! Now, that's foreshadowing.

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Merge, Landcross'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
::*The hamminess of Machtackle and Dashtacker's appearance in the battle is toned down.
::*Leozack asks Dinoking "what are you doing here?" rather than just asking what he's doing.
::*The unnamed worker who's looking after the dog is given the name [[Peter]].

===Trivia===
*This is the first regular episode since "[[Approach of the Demon Meteorite]]" (nearly two years prior!) to ''not'' be written by [[Toyohiro Ando]], [[Yoshihisa Araki]] or [[Hiroyuki Hoshiyama]].
*Obviously, as suggested in the title, this is the first appearance of Multiforce's combined form, Landcross. (Well, as long as you don't include the preview from last episode.)

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|jsubs}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2003 — ''Transformers: Victory'' — DVD Box 01 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — The Takara Collection Vol 3 — ''Transformers: Victory'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2008 — ''The Transformers: Victory'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) — Optional [[Omni Productions|Omni]] dub. 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) — Optional Omni dub.

[[Category:Victory episodes]]

God Ginrai: Showdown at the Decepticon Base

2012-06-07T20:52:47Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Masterforce
|ep=37
|image=Decepticonbaseshowdown.jpg
|caption=Swim. Swim. Swimswimswimswimswim... dang.
|title="God Ginrai: Showdown at the Decepticon Base"
|japanese=ゴッドジンライデストロン基地の決戦
|romaji=God Ginrai: Destron Kichi no Kessen
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[January 24|24 January]] 1989
|writer=[[Hiroyuki Hoshiyama]]
|director=[[Michihiro Kanayama]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''When Shūta and Clouder are captured while attempting to infiltrate the Decepticon base and used as bait to lure Ginrai into a trap, things look grim for the Autobots... until help comes from a most unexpected source!'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:MF37 Hydra spying.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]

The [[Autobot]]s are getting proactive, and have begun a search for the [[Decepticon]]s' [[Decepticon Base|hidden base]]. Although they have concluded that the villains are headquartered on the ocean floor, that is all they have to go on, and extensive data gathering is underway. [[Metalhawk]] assigns [[Shūta Gō|Shūta]] the task of retrieving a sonar probe that he positioned, but while Shūta is going about this mission, he is approached by [[Clouder]]. Although Shūta is naturally suspicious of the former Decepticon, Clouder explains that he wants to make amends by showing the Autobots where the Decepticon base is. Clouder tells him to summon Ginrai, but for safety's sake, Shūta tells Clouder to take him to the base first, ''then'' he'll call the Commander. The pair head into the ocean depths…but unfortunately for them, the spying [[Hydra (Masterforce)|Hydra]] has overheard their entire conversation, and radios ahead to the base to alert the Decepticons to their approach. When Clouder and Shūta arrive at the base, they are caught in a trap, immobilized by beams of crackling energy!

At the temporary Autobot headquarters on [[Matar Island]], the Autobots receive a transmission from [[Overlord (Masterforce)|Overlord]], informing them that Shūta is their captive. What the Autobots don't realize, however, is that the Decepticons are poised to divide up into three groups and simultaneously attack various locations on Earth. This divide-and-conquer strategy will ensure that only Ginrai can come to the Decepticon base.

[[Image:MF37 Clouder abuse.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
Meanwhile, [[Cancer (Masterforce)|Cancer]] is feeling particularly glum, and [[Browning]] says it's like he's lost his Decepticon spirit. As Cancer demands to know what that even means, [[Bullhorn]] and [[Wilder]] come running up to inform him of Shūta's capture. They tell him that Shūta has been thrown into the base's dungeon, where Shūta is presently beating up Clouder, accusing him of treachery. Overlord addresses them over a speaker system, correcting Shūta's misconception, and berating Clouder for his betrayal. When Clouder retorts that he was the one betrayed, left behind to die in the Autobot base fire by [[Turtler]], Overlord apologizes, but all the Decepticon Juniors share a quiet, uneasy look. Later, as Cancer wonders aloud if this claim is true, Wilder dismisses Clouder's word as lies, and Bullhorn asks what's wrong with Cancer. Doesn't he want to be a Decepticon anymore? Back on Matar Island, Metalhawk triangulates the location of the Decepticon base by tracing the signal from Overlord's message, at least revealing that it is located off the coast of [[Hawaii]]. [[Grand Maximus|Grand]] recognizes this as being entirely too easy, and the Autobots are very aware that a trap is being set for them. Just then, [[Lightfoot]] radios in that the Decepticons have appeared in [[Germany|West Germany]], [[Geneva]] and [[Moscow]], and the Autobots are forced to deploy around the world to combat the threat while God Ginrai heads for the Decepticon base.

[[Image:MF37 Shuta on monitor.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Wow, that is one serious huge flatscreen TV. Being a Decepticon has its perks.]]
Before long Ginrai is in the waters off Hawaii, and as he approaches the undersea portal leading into the base, he is attacked by a battalion of [[Seacon (Masterforce)|Seacons]]. He blasts out the airlock with his God Cannon, and he and his opponents are sucked inside the base. After dispatching the Seacons, Ginrai comes to a fork in the tunnel and separates from [[Godbomber]], sending the drone down one path while he takes the other. Ginrai finds Overlord, with a giant viewscreen behind him displaying Shūta in the clutches of [[King Poseidon]].

With no immediate options, Ginrai gives in to Overlord's demands and throws down his weapons. Shūta screams for Ginrai to fight back, but he does not, and Overlord commends him for his courage even as he smashes him to the ground with his fists. At that point, Godbomber appears in the chamber with Shūta and King Poseidon, but Ginrai instructs him to stand down to keep Shūta safe. King Poseidon blasts Godbomber just as the Decepticon Headmaster Juniors arrive to watch, and Bullhorn can't resist kicking Godbomber when he's down.

[[Image:MF37 Overlord Cancer.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
As Cancer looks at the viewscreens and sees Ginrai lying on the ground, then hears Shūta's cries as King Poseidon tightens his grip, he finally snaps and screams for the giant to stop, opening fire and blowing off the Seacon combiner's arm! The shocked Overlord orders Cancer to cease, but Cancer tells him he is done with the Decepticons—all he wanted was to become stronger, not a murderer! While Overlord argues with his subordinate, Ginrai sees that Shūta has been blown free from King Poseidon's grasp, and springs into action, smashing Overlord from behind. He instructs Godbomber to take Shūta and get out of there before breaking off from his battle and escaping himself. King Poseidon, meanwhile, is about to finish off Shūta, but Cancer leaps to his defence, and King Poseidon turns his firepower on Cancer instead, blasting his gun from his hand. Before the killing blow can be delivered, Godbomber blasts King Poseidon to pieces with the God Cannon, then hefts Shūta up and carries him off. The Decepticon Juniors watch as this happens, and when Seacons lunge at the traitorous Cancer, ''Bullhorn'' comes to his aid, blasting the creatures to bits and telling Cancer to flee the base!

With Seacons hot on their tail, Shūta, Cancer and Godbomber flee into the base's tunnels, liberating the imprisoned Clouder along the way. Shūta then instructs Godbomber to find Ginrai while they hold the Seacons off, and the drone complies, locating and merging with the commander once again as Overlord catches up to him and their battle continues. God Ginrai flattens Overlord and joins the others in escaping, with the tiny Browning furiously swimming along behind them, following his boss all the way. The ragtag group break through the surface of the waves, and take to the air, making good their escape.

Now, with Shūta saved and the location of the Decepticons' base finally known to the Autobots, a reckoning is sure to follow...
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Metalhawk]] (4)
* [[Grand Maximus]] (15)
* [[Godbomber]] (32)
* [[Diver (Masterforce)|Diver]] (33)
* [[Phoenix]] (34)
* [[Lander]] (35)

'''Human Autobots'''

* [[Ginrai]] (1)
* [[Road King]] (2)
* [[Lightfoot]] (3)
* [[Shūta Gō]] (5)
* [[Clouder]] (6)
* [[Minerva (Masterforce)|Minerva]] (13)
* [[Cab]] (14)
* [[Ranger]] (16)

|c2=
* [[Gulf]] (11)
* [[Devil Z]] (12)
* [[Scorponok (G1)|BlackZarak]] (18)
* [[Blood]] (19)
* [[Dauros]] (20)
* [[Gilmer]] (21)
* [[Browning]] (23)
* [[Turtler]] (26)
* [[Tentakil (Masterforce)|Tentakil]] (27)
* [[Overbite (Masterforce)|Overbite]] (28)
* [[Lobclaw]] (29)
* [[Kraken]] (30)
* [[King Poseidon]] (31)

'''Human Decepticons'''

* [[Hydra (Masterforce)|Hydra]] (7)
* [[Mega]] (8)
* [[Giga]] (9)
* [[Buster (Masterforce)|Buster]] (10)
* [[Overlord (Masterforce)|Overlord]] (17)
* [[Cancer (Masterforce)|Cancer]] (22)
* [[Bullhorn]] (24)
* [[Wilder]] (25)
}}

==Quotes==
"I joined the Decepticons because I wanted to become stronger! But you're all just a bunch of murderers!"
:—'''Cancer'''

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
[[Image:MF37 Minerva looks weird.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Aieeeeee!]]
*As Minerva asserts that they can't leave Shuta as a prisoner, her face... well, ''look'' at it.
*As Ginrai plunges into the sea to head for the Decepticon base, he is colored like Godbomber.
*One or two pieces of animation are re-used during this episode, most notably a shot of a Tentakil rearing up in Ginrai's path. The problem is, it's surrounded by bubbles as if swirling through water, and when the shot gets re-used, it's not actually supposed to be underwater. Whoops!
*King Poseidon's optics are black when he's about to shoot Cancer.
*As Ginrai is shocked by the Decepticons' disco ball of death, his groin is missing its usual red coloration.

===Continuity notes===
*Clouder, last seen in "[[Disaster! The Autobot Base Explodes]]", reappears in this episode. His betrayal by Turtler occurred in that episode.
*After running for over two-dozen episodes, the sub-plot of Cancer's uncertainty in the Decepticon cause at last comes to a close.

===Foreign dubbing===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Battle at the Base'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

===Trivia===
*This episode features every regular recurring character in the series, except for occasional guest-star [[Sixknight]].
* Germany is called "[[Wikipedia:West Germany|West Germany]]" in this episode because the show was aired in the year 1988, before the [[Wikipedia:German reunification|German reunification]] in the year 1990.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|jsubs}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2003 — ''Transformers: Super-God Masterforce'' — DVD Box 02 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — The Takara Collection Vol 2 — ''Transformers: Super-God Masterforce'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2008 — ''The Transformers: Super God Masterforce'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

[[Category:Super-God Masterforce episodes]]

Disaster! The Autobot Base Explodes

2012-06-05T13:54:14Z

RQ87-D2: /* Trivia */

{{episode
|series=Masterforce
|ep=33
|image=AutobotBaseExplodes.jpg
|caption=Rock on Sheboygan! You've been a great audience!
|title="Disaster! The Autobot Base Explodes"
|japanese=ピンチ!サイバトロン基地大爆発
|romaji=Pinch! Cybertron Kichi Daibakuhatsu!!
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[December 13|13 December]] 1988
|writer=[[Toyohiro Ando]]
|director=[[Yoshikata Nitta]], [[Hiromichi Matano]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''With God Ginrai trapped in battle with Overlord and Decepticon forces swarming the Autobots' base, catastrophe seems unavoidable.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:DisasterBaseExplodes exploding dish.jpg|thumb|left|200px|No! Now how will I watch ''Survivor: New York''?!]]

With the [[Autobot]]s in disarray thanks to the machinations of the [[Decepticon]] mole [[Clouder]], [[Giga]] unleashes "Operation: Dark Base of the Lighthouse" and initiates an all-out attack on the Autobots' [[Autobot Base|undermanned headquarters]]. Heavy fire from [[Overlord (Masterforce)|Overlord]]'s base mode and attacks from the [[Headmaster Junior]]s cripple the Autobots' defense systems, causing fires to spread throughout the complex. [[Minerva (Masterforce)|Minerva]] is horrified to discover that the captive Clouder's cell is amongst the blocks that has caught fire and rushes to activate the sprinkler systems and save him, even as her comrades attempt to extinguish the other fires. [[Metalhawk]] tries to monitor the damage done to the base when another missile strike hits the control room and the computers explode in his face, knocking him unconscious.

[[Image:DisasterBaseExplodes Minerva waters Clouder.jpg|thumb|right|200px|"What is it? I'm trying to water the prisoner!"]]

Miles from the base, in a city, [[Ginrai]] and [[Godbomber]] are busy battling [[Hydra (Masterforce)|Hydra]] and [[Buster (Masterforce)|Buster]], totally unaware of the threat their teammates are facing. Lasers, kicks and beams of [[Chōkon Power]] are exchanged until the [[Godmaster]] brothers merge into [[Darkwings]] for an aerial attack. Ginrai downs them with a massive blast of Tenchōkon Power, but as they spiral out of the sky in a smoking wreck, the voices of Mega and Giga crackle over Ginrai's comm-link. The Decepticon leaders are beginning the second stage of the attack, for which Ginrai must be present, and they alert him to the situation at the Autobot base. After quickly instructing [[Ranger]] and [[Road King]] to remain behind and continue the rescue operations in the city, Ginrai heads back to aid his friends with Godbomber and [[Lightfoot]] in tow.

[[Image:DisasterBaseExplodes Overlord stomps Ginrai.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
Back at the base, the Autobot Headmaster Juniors have hooked up Metalhawk to medical equipment, but Minerva sees the situation as hopeless and suggests that they abandon their headquarters. [[Shūta Gō|Shūta]] opposes the idea, as the base is his father's creation. Thankfully, they gain a momentary respite from the enemy bombardment when Ginrai and company arrive, prompting Overlord to transform to robot mode to take on the Autobot leader directly. In the midst of their battle, Overlord sends a transmission to the waiting [[King Poseidon]], who separates into his component [[Seacon (Masterforce)|Seacon]] parts. As Overlord cackles that phase two has begun, the Seacons burrow their way through the mountain and swarm into the heart of the Autobots' base! The whole mountain quakes and begins to crumble as they tear through its structure, heading for the magma energy converter that is its central power core. A [[Lobclaw]] rips into the converter, causing it to explode, cutting power to the base. Clouder finds that the shackles holding him have deactivated, but he is promptly buried in rubble as [[Turtler]] seals off all the entrances to the complex, leaving everyone inside trapped.

[[Image:DisasterBaseExplodes escaping on Godbomber.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
Meanwhile, Ginrai and Overlord continue their battle, and Ginrai merges with Godbomber finally to bring Overlord down. Just then, Lightfoot radios Ginrai, informing him that the entire base will explode within ten minutes and that the other Autobots are trapped inside. Overlord gloats that although he may have been defeated in battle, the ''true'' objective of the mission, the destruction of the Autobot base, which Ginrai failed to recognize, will succeed. Angry over his own short-sightedness, Ginrai directs Lightfoot and the others to gather on the top level of the structure, and they do so, with Minerva pausing to unearth Clouder and take him with them in the process. Once at the highest point, they gather in front of a large, reinforced viewing window and watch as Ginrai God-Punches Overlord to the ground, disconnects from Godbomber, and aims the God Cannon...at the base! Ginrai blasts open a fissure leading right to the magma converter, partially allowing its building energy to escape, delaying the explosion long enough for Godbomber to fly up and airlift the Autobots to safety. Then, Ginrai picks up Overlord and hurls him into the mountain, just as the magma converter finally explodes, hurling the Decepticon leader over the horizon and reducing the Autobot base to so much ash and ruin.

Although their headquarters have been destroyed, the Autobots take heart in the fact that they are at least alive and healthy. Clouder looks over the blackened crater that was the base in dismay over how he allowed himself to be used by the Decepticons and abandoned by them, at which point Ginrai approaches him. The apologetic Clouder announces his desire to work with the Autobots, and Ginrai accepts his offer. Clouder vows that they will meet again and departs as the Sun rises.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Metalhawk]] (7)
* [[Godbomber]] (19)

'''Human Autobots'''

* [[Minerva (Masterforce)|Minerva]] (6)
* [[Lightfoot]] (8)
* [[Ranger]] (9)
* [[Cab]] (10)
* [[Shūta Gō]] (11)
* [[Ginrai]] (18)
* [[Road King]] (20)

|c2=
* [[King Poseidon]] (5)
* [[Browning]] (15)
* [[Overbite (Masterforce)|Overbite]] (21)
* [[Gulf]] (22)
* [[Tentakil (Masterforce)|Tentakil]] (23)
* [[Lobclaw]] (24)
* [[Kraken]] (25)
* [[Turtler]] (26)

'''Human Decepticons'''

* [[Overlord (Masterforce)|Overlord]] (1)
* [[Mega]] (2)
* [[Giga]] (3)
* [[Clouder]] (4)
* [[Bullhorn]] (12)
* [[Wilder]] (13)
* [[Cancer (Masterforce)|Cancer]] (14)
* [[Hydra (Masterforce)|Hydra]] (16)
* [[Buster (Masterforce)|Buster]] (17)

}}
==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
* Considering the pounding Autobot Base takes, isn't it surprising that its camouflage covering of trees stays completely intact?
* King Poseidon's face is completely green, same as the rest of his head, when Giga and Mega tell him to start his part of the plan.
* When Ginrai lays out Overlord and jams his guns in the Decepticon's face, Overlord's nose is blue instead of grey.

===Continuity errors===
* Not really an error, but... where in ''fun'' are the rest of the Pretenders when all of this is going on? Let me guess: [[Lander]]'s on a date, [[Diver (Masterforce)|Diver]]'s taking a nap (''again''), and [[Phoenix]] is in his place that ''no one'' knows about. Some warriors they are.
* Similarly, where are the Decepticon Pretenders? You'd think it'd be all hands on deck for something like attacking the enemy's main base.

===Continuity notes===
* Clouder was installed within the Autobot ranks in "[[Appearance!! The Final Godmaster]]".
* This is the first time in a ''very'' long time that we've heard Shūta refer to his father, [[Professor Gō]], who died ''waaay'' back in "[[Terror! The Decepticons' Manhunt]]".
* It is also ''not'' the first time that Ginrai has accepted a [[Sixknight|former ally]] of the Decepticons into the Autobots with absolutely no reservations or concern. Trusting sort, that Ginrai. That sort of trust'll get your base blown up. Mmn.

===Foreign dubbing===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Crisis in the Autobots' Headquarters'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

[[Image:MF34_unusedshot.jpg|thumb|left|200px|]]
===Trivia===
* This episode features the debut of the insert song, "[[We Believe Tomorrow|WE BELIEVE TOMORROW]]". [[Engrish]] at its finest! You believe tomorrow ''what''?
* The phrase "dark base of the lighthouse" derives from the fact that the space around you gets darker the closer you get to a lighthouse. It has a similar meaning to "not being able to see the forest for the trees"—i.e., not being able to see the bigger picture.
*The next episode preview features a scene that isn't actually in the next episode, showing BlackZarak attacking a castle whilst a crowd points and gasps in horror.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|jsubs}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2003 — ''Transformers: Super-God Masterforce'' — DVD Box 02 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — The Takara Collection Vol 2 — ''Transformers: Super-God Masterforce'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2008 — ''The Transformers: Super God Masterforce'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

[[Category:Super-God Masterforce episodes]]

BlackZarak - Destroyer from Space

2012-06-05T13:52:34Z

RQ87-D2: /* Trivia */

{{episode
|series=Masterforce
|ep=34
|image=Destroyerfromspace.jpg
|caption=You might wanna get that checked out.
|title="BlackZarak - Destroyer from Space"
|japanese=ブラックザラック・宇宙からの破壊者
|romaji=Black Zarack - Uchū Kara no Hakaisha
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[December 20|20 December]] 1988
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Atsutoshi Umezawa]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''At last, BlackZarak arrives on Earth, and chaos follows in his wake, as Decepticon attacks spread thin the Autobot forces on Earth, and Ginrai and Grand Maximus fall victim to a deadly trap in space.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:BlackZarakDestroyer Autobots trailer base.jpg|thumb|left|200px|"All right, everyone, keep an eye on the trailer. If it vanishes, we'll find out where the heck it goes."]]
Having hidden in deep space since his defeat at the hands of [[Ginrai|God Ginrai]], [[Scorponok (G1)|BlackZarak]] has mastered localized gravity manipulation, enabling him to generate [[black hole]]s that will allow him to teleport directly to Earth. [[Devil Z]] informs [[Mega]] and [[Giga]] of this development, and instructs them to begin "[[Operation M1]]" as BlackZarak appears in the skies above [[New York City|New York]]!

Meanwhile, with their headquarters having been destroyed, the [[Autobot]]s have relocated to the [[Alps]] and radioed [[Grand Maximus]] out in space, with the intention of employing his battleship as a new base. Enough time passes that the Autobots begin to grow uneasy, and when Ginrai can't make contact with Grand, he chooses to head out into space himself to investigate.

Almost at the precise moment that Ginrai departs, however, the Decepticons' Operation M1 begins! [[Overlord (Masterforce)|Overlord]] descends out of the sky into the heart of [[Paris]] and cuts a swathe of destruction through the city, decimating military resistance and destroying the [[Arc de Triomphe]], while BlackZarak rains chaos down on [[New York City|New York]], teleporting a squadron of attacking jet fighters away through a black hole. The patrolling [[Metalhawk]] happens upon the ruined New York and is about to contact the other Autobots, when [[Diver (Masterforce)|Diver]] radios him first, informing him of Overlord's attack on Paris, and the fact that Overlord is now moving east across Europe, while BlackZarak is moving west across the Pacific. Metalhawk alerts [[Lightfoot]] and the other Autobots to the situation, and they attempt to contact Ginrai, with no luck. Not wanting to imagine the worst, they put the thought from their minds and roll out for the disaster areas.

[[Image:BlackZarakDestroyer Ginrai Maximus in black hole.jpg|thumb|right|200px|"Well, this sucks." "Not the best time for jokes, Ginrai!" "I was just making an observation..."]]
Out in space, the reason for the Autobots' failure to contact Ginrai becomes clear when the commander himself arrives at Grand Maximus's last confirmed location, and discovers a black hole which immediately captures him in its gravity. Pulled into the dark recesses of the black hole, he spots Grand Maximus in the darkness, also a victim of the black hole's pull. Grand Maximus explains that the black hole is the work of BlackZarak, and that he is expending all of his energy just to hold steady against its gravity.

While passing over [[China]], Overlord sets down atop the [[Great Wall of China|Great Wall]] and delivers a message to the leaders of the world, telling them that they have three hours to surrender, or Overlord and BlackZarak will converge over [[Tokyo]] and reduce the city to a sea of fire. Within an hour, as he is flying across the sea towards [[Japan]], he is confronted by Metalhawk, [[Phoenix (Masterforce)|Phoenix]] and Diver, but dispatches them with ease and carries on his way.

[[Image:BlackZarakDestroyer Overlord BlackZarak rampage.jpg|thumb|left|200px| "Hahahaha...BWAHAHAHA! Ohohoho! This is ''delicious''!]]
Back in the grip of the black hole, Ginrai and Grand Maximus formulate an escape plan. Ginrai intends to blast the centre of the black hole with an even more powerful force—[[Chōkon Power]]! Drawing power from the electromagnetic waves of the black hole, they combine their energies and Ginrai funnels them through the Godcannon, blasting the heart of the black hole with one almighty beam. The black hole erupts in a massive explosion...

[[Image:BlackZarakDestroyer Preparing to fire on Ginrai Maximus.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Caught between a 'Con and...a stronger 'Con.]]
Meanwhile, off the coast of Japan, the Autobot [[Godmaster]]s and [[Headmaster Junior]]s stand poised to repel the approach of BlackZarak. The massive Decepticons soon appears overhead and blasts the assembled Autobots with lasers and lightning, at which point Overlord explodes onto the scene, and directs BlackZarak to forget them and join him in attacking Tokyo. The [[Seacon (Masterforce)|Seacons]], [[Buster (Masterforce)|Buster]], [[Hydra (Masterforce)|Hydra]] and the Decepticon Headmaster Juniors all emerge to occupy the Autobots while Tokyo is demolished by BlackZarak and Overlord, but as the two Decepticons march through the city, the sight of something moving against the sun catches Overlord's eye. As he watches, denying the possibility of what he sees with every breath, Grand Maximus and Ginrai swoop down from the skies, ready to bring the destruction to an end! Ginrai and BlackZarak square off as Grand Maximus and BlackZarak match firepower, but eventually, Ginrai manoeuvres himself between the two Decepticons and dodges at the last second, causing them to blast each other. Ginrai and Maximus merge their energies one more time and deliver the final blast to the two damaged villains, crippling them and causing Devil Z to order the abortion of Operation M1, and the commencement of [[Operation M2]]. The Decepticons pull out, and in the aftermath of the battle the Autobots all welcome Ginrai back to the fold. Ginrai remains uneasy, however, and can sense that worse things are on the horizon... but for now, there's rescue work to be done!

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Godbomber]] (12)
* [[Metalhawk]] (17)
* [[Diver (Masterforce)|Diver]] (18)
* [[Grand Maximus]] (19)
* [[Phoenix (Masterforce)|Phoenix]] (20)

'''Human Autobots'''

* [[Minerva (Masterforce)|Minerva]] (5)
* [[Shūta Gō]] (6)
* [[Cab]] (7)
* [[Lightfoot]] (8)
* [[Road King]] (9)
* [[Ranger]] (10)
* [[Ginrai]] (11)

|c2=
* [[Scorponok (G1)|BlackZarak]] (1)
* [[Devil Z]] (2)
* [[Tentakil (Masterforce)|Tentakil]] (21)
* [[Lobclaw]] (22)
* [[Gulf]] (23)
* [[Overbite (Masterforce)|Overbite]] (24)

'''Human Decepticons'''

* [[Mega]] (3)
* [[Giga]] (4)
* [[Overlord (Masterforce)|Overlord]] (13)
* [[Hydra (Masterforce)|Hydra]] (25)
* [[Buster (Masterforce)|Buster]] (26)
* [[Bullhorn]] (27)
* [[Wilder]] (28)
* [[Cancer (Masterforce)|Cancer]] (29)

|c4=
* [[United States Navy captain|Captain]] (14)
* Sailor A (15)
* Sailor B (16)
}}

==Quotes==
"The likes of you cannot hurt or even tickle me!"
:—'''Overlord''', under attack from Hawk and Phoenix.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*When Lightfoot asks if something could have happened to Grand Maximus, the cabling on Ranger's suit is red.
*As Hawk flies over New York, he flies over a building, and his wingspan is at least three times the building's width, making him look huge.
*The "stars" being pulled into the black hole Ginrai finds are, on the other hand, tiny and completely inaccurate in terms of scale. Additionally any shot of space in this episode will show planets improbably close together.
*As the Headmaster Juniors discuss why Ginrai's not communicating, when Cab raises his arm, the shadow on Shūta's right leg reverses.
*In the following shot of Lightfoot, the cabling on Ranger's suit is colored red again.
*As BlackZarak attacks the Autobots, [[Ranger]]'s red parts are colored yellow.
*As Shūta announces that he'll defeat BlackZarak himself, the interior of his and Cab's mouths are white.

===Continuity notes===
*BlackZarak and Grand Maximus have both been fighting out in space since their last appearance in "[[God Ginrai - Showdown on the Surface of the Moon]]".
*The Autobot base was destroyed in the [[Disaster! The Autobot Base Explodes|previous episode]].
*This episode sees Ginrai's trailer transform to base mode for the first time in the series itself, but it did previously appear in a rather [[Raiden|odd scene]] in the show's first opening sequence.
*This is the second time that the [[Arc de Triomphe]] has been destroyed in the series (the first being in the episode "[[Expose the Decepticons' Dark Trap!]]"). The Japanese must really hate the French...

===Foreign dubbing===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Destroyers from Deep Space'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)

===Trivia===
*This episode features the debut of the insert song, "[[Super Ginrai no Theme]]". It's coming in a bit late, mind you, since things are all about ''God'' Ginrai at this point in the series, but it's still a song that makes you sit up and go "I say! What is this I'm hearing now?"
[[Image:MF34_unusedshot.jpg|thumb|left|200px|]]
*A scene of Overlord launching a volley of missiles at Ginrai is re-used from the show's opening sequence.
*The preview for this episode features a scene cut from the episode itself, which involves BlackZarak attacking and destroying a castle, whilst a crowd point and gasp in horror. The crowd seem to be in a theme park, most likely meant to be a Disneyland knock-off, judging from the castle design and the Mickey Mouse style character on one of the children's shirts.
*A bit of footage from the [[Omni Productions]] dub version of this episode was included as part of some special features on the Kid Rhino DVD release of Generation 1 Season 1. Specifically, the title card (with the "Destroyers From Deep Space" narration) and a few seconds of the scene where God Ginrai and Grand Maximus almost get caught in the blast of the black hole exploding, which cuts right to a commercial bumper of Buster and Hydra combining (which was not the actual bumper used at that point in the episode; the BlackZarak underwater bumper was).

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|jsubs}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2003 — ''Transformers: Super-God Masterforce'' — DVD Box 02 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — The Takara Collection Vol 2 — ''Transformers: Super-God Masterforce'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2008 — ''The Transformers: Super God Masterforce'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

[[Category:Super-God Masterforce episodes]]

File:MF34 unusedshot.jpg

2012-06-05T13:47:30Z

RQ87-D2:

Unused shot of some people reacting to a BlackZarak attack, taken from the next episode preview segment.{{MFcap|
|Disaster! The Autobot Base Explodes|8}}

File:MF34 unusedshot.jpg

2012-06-05T13:44:42Z

RQ87-D2: Unused shot of some people reacting to a BlackZarak attack.

Unused shot of some people reacting to a BlackZarak attack.

Talk:BlackZarak - Destroyer from Space

2012-06-05T11:37:28Z

RQ87-D2: New page: The preview for this episode -shown at the end of the previous ep -shows a scene which isn't actually shown in the episode itself. It involves BlackZarak attacking a castle, and a group of...

The preview for this episode -shown at the end of the previous ep -shows a scene which isn't actually shown in the episode itself. It involves BlackZarak attacking a castle, and a group of people gasping and pointing in horror. It looks like they are in a theme park of some kind, since there is a guy in an animal suit in the crowd. Is this worth mentioning on the page? --[[User:RQ87-D2|RQ87-D2]] 07:37, 5 June 2012 (EDT)

Destroy Godbomber!!

2012-06-03T18:49:31Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Masterforce
|ep=30
|image=Destroygodbomber.jpg
|caption="Then we ride this Godbomber to Mexico! And freedom, Willie, freedom!"
|title="Destroy Godbomber!!"
|japanese=ゴッドボンバーを破壊せよ!!
|romaji=Godbomber o Hakaiseyo!!
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[November 22|22 November]] 1988
|writer=[[Hiroyuki Hoshiyama]]
|director=[[Jōhei Matsūra]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}

''' In the heartland of America, the Decepticons spring a trap that puts Godbomber in danger, forcing the Headmaster Juniors to discover a new power that will save the day.'''

==Synopsis==
On a grassy hillside, [[Ginrai|Super Ginrai]] reclines beside [[Godbomber]], awaiting the arrival of the [[Headmaster Junior|Headmaster Juniors]]. Presently, the trio roll up and board Godbomber, at which point the drone transfers its God Wing to Ginrai, allowing him to take to the air. Carrying Godbomber and its passengers with him, Ginrai makes a beeline for the farmlands of America, where [[Metalhawk]] has reported that the [[Decepticon]] Headmaster Juniors are burning storehouses.

[[Image:Masterforce ep30 Cancer Flamethrower.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Transformers: The Flamethrower! *FWOOOOSH* The kids love it.]]

As the Decepticon Juniors go about their mission, [[Cancer (Masterforce)|Cancer]] voices his concern, fearing that ''they'll'' be left with nothing to eat, but [[Wilder]] and [[Bullhorn]] mock his naiveté, pointing out that the storehouses don't contain all the food in America. Just then, Ginrai appears in the sky overhead and sets down nearby, instructing the Autobot Juniors to get to work putting out the fires and saving as much of the intact food as possible. Ginrai breaks away to deal with another cluster of burning storehouses, but while he is occupied moving sacks of food, he is blindsided by a blast that comes from the opposite building. The doors of the warehouse burst open and [[Giga]], aboard his Gigatank, comes rolling out, and [[Mega]] appears overhead in the Megajet. Ginrai dives into a nearby building for cover, but the two Decepticons bombard it with blast fire, and it explodes!

Meanwhile, on the other side of the facility, [[Hydra (Masterforce)|Hydra]] and [[Buster (Masterforce)|Buster]] approach the unassuming Godbomber, who sits stationary in trailer mode. Intending to cripple Ginrai's fighting power by destroying the drone, they open fire, but the Autobot Juniors spot them and draw their fire. [[Minerva (Masterforce)|Minerva]] instructs [[Shūta Gō|Shūta]] to check on Ginrai, and he races off, arriving just as Ginrai hauls himself from the rubble of the warehouse and find himself staring down [[Overlord (Masterforce)|Overlord]]'s gun barrel. Shūta opens fire on Overlord, knocking the Decepticon Godmaster aside long enough for Ginrai to be filled in on the situation.

[[Image:Masterforce ep30 SuperGinrai Shuta.jpg|rightt|200px|thumb|"I have candy in my Ark..."]]

Surprisingly, Ginrai instructs Shūta to return to his team-mates and for them to transport Godbomber away to safety, leaving him unable to merge with the drone. Shūta does as instructed, and boards Godbomber, driving it off into the nearby forest with Minerva and Cab following. Unfortunately, they're not the only ones, as Hydra and Buster pursue the Juniors and blast Godbomber, causing Shūta to crash into a tree. Minerva and Cab try to hold the Decepticons off, but just as their weapons run out of energy, help arrives from a most unexpected quarter — the six-changing wanderer, [[Sixknight]], drops out of the skies and takes the Godmasters on as the two Juniors rush to Shūta's aid. As Minerva tends Shūta's wounds, Cab attempts to get Godbomber rolling again, but the drone does not respond.

[[Image:Masterforce ep30 GodBomber Activates.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Now you're playing with power!]]

Godbomber, it is explained, functions by absorbing [[Chōkon Power]] from Ginrai, and the Autobot commander has been so badly weakened by Mega and Giga that he has none to spare, leaving it motionless. Buster breaks off from the battle with Sixknight to attack the immobile target, but suddenly, when the three distressed Juniors all grab for Godbomber's controls at once, it springs to life and charges forward. After narrowly missing Buster, Godbomber transforms to robot mode, but once again, the Juniors find that they cannot make it move. When Shūta happens to lay his hand on a panel, however, it lights up, and a gauge on the console begins to rise. Minerva and Cab join in, placing their hands alongside Shūta's, and the gauge is completely filled, bringing Godbomber to Chōkon-powered life! Dodging a blast from Buster, the Junior-piloted Godbomber pounds the Decepticon Godmaster into the ground, and then lifts off, heading back to help Ginrai.

Back the other battle site, Mega and Giga have succeeded in drawing Ginrai out of hiding, but just as they are about to deliver the final blow, Godbomber and the Juniors arrive. Ginrai fuses with Godbomber into God Ginrai, and sends Overlord packing with a blast of Chōkon Power. In the wake of the battle, Ginrai thanks Sixknight for his help, and after the Six-Changer departs, the discussion turns to Godbomber's unexpected transformation. The Juniors realize that they must have combined the Chōkon Power in their bodies, generating enough to empower Godbomber, but Cab and Shūta are less than impressed to learn that it took all three of them to simply equal the power of Ginrai.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Godbomber]] (5)
* [[Sixknight]] (14)

'''Human Autobots'''

* [[Ginrai]] (1)
* [[Minerva (Masterforce)|Minerva]] (2)
* [[Shūta Gō]] (3)
* [[Cab]] (4)

|c2=
'''Human Decepticons'''

* [[Bullhorn]] (6)
* [[Wilder]] (7)
* [[Cancer (Masterforce)|Cancer]] (8)
* [[Giga]] (9)
* [[Hydra (Masterforce)|Hydra]] (10)
* [[Buster (Masterforce)|Buster]] (11)
* [[Mega]] (12)
* [[Overlord (Masterforce)|Overlord]] (13)

}}
==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*Super Ginrai may be big, but the way he's [[Scale|scaled]] compared with the trees in the opening scenes make him look ludicrously huge.
*When Shūta powers up Godbomber, the exterior windows also somehow light up.
*When Minerva and Cab transform to follow Godbomber, their heads detach, but the two kids aren't seen to drop back into their transtectors.
*Just before Sixknight arrives, the bit of chest just above Buster's cockpit is light grey instead of dark grey.
*When Sixknight lands, his guns are black instead of blue.
*Hydra and Buster have switched places when Sixknight fires on them.

===Continuity errors===
*The Headmaster Juniors refer to Godbomber's transformation in the [[Escape!! The Underwater Volcano Erupts|previous episode]] as if it was the first time they had seen it happen. It [[Overlord - Terror of the Chōkon Tornado|totally wasn't]].

===Continuity notes===
*Cab uses "[[Fire Buster]]" cartridges to fight the flames at the storehouses, previously employed by Shūta in "[[Overlord - Terror of the Chōkon Tornado]]".
* Giga resolved to destroy Godbomber at the conclusion of the previous episode.
*Sixknight reappears after a prolonged absence. He was last seen in "[[The Autobot Warrior, Sixknight?!]]".

===Foreign dubbing===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Plan to Destroy Godbomber'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|jsubs}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2003 — ''Transformers: Super-God Masterforce'' — DVD Box 02 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — The Takara Collection Vol 2 — ''Transformers: Super-God Masterforce'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2008 — ''The Transformers: Super God Masterforce'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

[[Category:Super-God Masterforce episodes]]

God Ginrai - Showdown on the Surface of the Moon

2012-06-02T21:22:44Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Masterforce
|ep=27
|image=Surfaceofthemoon.jpg
|caption="We can breathe here then?" "I guess those candy-butt astronauts didn't have the stones to try it." "I could ''never'' say that about an astronaut."
|title="God Ginrai - Showdown on the Surface of the Moon"
|japanese=ゴッドジンライ・月面の対決
|romaji=God Ginrai - Getsumen no Taiketsu
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[November 1|1 November]] 1988
|writer=[[Hiroyuki Hoshiyama]]
|director=[[Jōhei Matsūra]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''On the lunar surface, God Ginrai fights a desperate battle against Overlord and BlackZarak, with the fate of the world at stake!'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:BlackZarakMasterforce1.jpg|left|200px|thumb|]]

On the surface of the Moon, [[Ginrai|God Ginrai]] has been badly wounded by [[Scorponok (G1)|BlackZarak]] and [[Overlord (Masterforce)|Overlord]]. BlackZarak continues to pummel the crippled Autobot, but Overlord requests that be allowed to take over, for fear of BlackZarak being injured. The battle rages on, and Ginrai is able to dispatch Overlord with his Godcannon, only for BlackZarak to strike back, toppling Ginrai into a crater and pouncing on him in scorpion mode. Ginrai hurls his foe off of him, but his respite is short lived when Overlord appears again and separates into his component parts for a two-pronged attack. Again, the Godcannon saves his bacon when he blasts the Megajet out of the air with it, but BlackZarak then shoots Ginrai in the back, knocking the Godcannon off his body and out of his reach.

[[Image:Masterforce ep27 GodGinraiEarth.jpg|right|200px|thumb|]]

Down on Earth, the [[Autobot]]s find that a magnetic storm is cutting off communications with Ginrai. [[Lander]] attempts to defuse the tense mood in the room by joking that Ginrai doesn't realize that they're trying to contact him because they're calling him "commander", but the [[Headmaster Junior]]s don't take the joke well, and he and the [[Pretender]]s retire for a drink. [[Lightfoot]] and the Juniors attempt to relax with tea, and [[Cab]] and [[Shūta Gō|Shūta]] try relaxing with a [[Rubik's Cube]], but it only frustrates them more. At the instant the communications console starts to beep, everyone rushes over, but it is only [[Grand Maximus]] on the other end of the line, who reports that he is heading for the moon at that very moment.

Back on the moon, the injured Ginrai has managed to escape his foes for a few moments and reclaim the Godcannon, but before long, he finds himself trapped, with a Decepticon on either side. Suddenly, Ginrai evens the odds by splitting off from [[Godbomber]], who circles around behind Overlord while Ginrai draws his fire and blasts him in the back. Overlord loses his grip on his blaster and Ginrai seizes it, opening fire on BlackZarak, but the monstrous Decepticon dodges and sends Ginrai rolling across the lunar surface with an unrelenting volley of blasts. Just as BlackZarak seems poised to deliver the killing blow, a hail of laser fire rakes the moon's surface, forcing him back—Grand Maximus has arrived! Grand transforms into his giant robot mode and engages BlackZarak in hand-to-hand combat, giving Ginrai the time he needs to make contact with the Autobots on Earth. As he updates them on the situation, he looks down on the Earth, at last truly recognizing the beauty of the planet compared to the rocky wasteland of the moon, and vows to be its protector. Emotionally charged, he turns and dives into the fray, knocking BlackZarak back.

[[Image:Masterforce ep27 GodGinrai&BraveMaximus.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Hi Ho Silver! Away!]]

With the numbers between the two sides now even, Overlord encourages BlackZarak to pull out and head for Earth in accordance with [[Devil Z]]'s wishes, but Ginrai recombines with Godbomber and he and Grand give chase. The battle continues in space, with Ginrai blasting Overlord back down to the moon's surface as Grand Maximus and BlackZarak trade blaster fire in their ship modes. Ginrai boards Grand and delivers a massive blast of [[Chōkon Power]], sending BlackZarak tumbling down to the moon as well. There, BlackZarak finds Overlord and instructs him to return to Earth and inform Devil Z of the situation, but Overlord is indignant at being given orders, and insists that BlackZarak must accompany him to Earth. BlackZarak refuses, and Overlord only acquiesces because of his injuries. In seconds, Ginrai and Grand Maxims are upon them again, and Overlord flees while BlackZarak tackles Ginrai head on. A "Godpunch" attack from Ginrai forces BlackZarak back, and he follows it up with his "God Fire Guts" attack, wreathing himself in flaming Chōkon Power and crashing like a meteor into BlackZarak. BlackZarak's body tumbles back to the ground, having been decapitated by the sheer force of the blast... but as his disembodied head lies burning on the ground, his headless body rises unsteadily, and flees into space, heading away from the Earth! Although Ginrai is concerned that the threat of BlackZarak is not over, Grand Maximus assures him that the rest can be left in his hands. He parts ways with Ginrai and heads after BlackZarak, and Ginrai then heads back down to Earth to reunite with the other Autobots, who are busy celebrating his victory, with Lander once again in favor of a drink to do the job.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters|c1=
* [[Godbomber]] (3)
* [[Metalhawk]] (4)
* [[Lander]] (11)
* [[Diver (Masterforce)|Diver]] (12)
* [[Phoenix]] (13)
* [[Grand Maximus]] (17)

'''Human Autobots'''

* [[Shūta Gō]] (5)
* [[Ginrai]] (6)
* [[Cab]] (7)
* [[Minerva (Masterforce)|Minerva]] (8)
* [[Lightfoot]] (14)
* [[Ranger]] (15)
* [[Road King]] (16)

|c2=
* [[Scorponok (G1)|BlackZarak]] (10)

'''Human Decepticons'''

* [[Mega]] (1)
* [[Giga]] (2)
* [[Overlord (Masterforce)|Overlord]] (9)
}}

==Quotes==
"I can see the Earth from here... It's a beautiful planet, the Earth. But there's nothing here. It's a rocky, dead world. If even one of the Decepticons from space reaches the Earth, it will become a dead world like the moon. The Earth must be protected by its people! Like how you fought against the Decepticons for us unknowing humans, Hawk... Now it's my turn to do the same!"
:—'''Ginrai''' gives a speech before charging into battle.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
* In the opening shot of Overlord standing over a fallen God Ginrai, the latter is missing the boosters on the bottom of his right foot.
*When Overlord gets hit by the Godcannon shot for the first time, there is a shot of him flying back. His eyes are gray instead of red in this shot.
*After performing the "Godpunch" on BlackZarak, God Ginrai's left forearm turns from red to blue a moment before his gauntlets reattach.

===Continuity errors===
*At the end of the [[God Ginrai - Into the Sky!!|previous episode]], BlackZarak appeared in robot mode and impaled God Ginrai through the shoulder with his spear. And yet, at the start of this episode, he's in scorpion mode, goes through a super-dramatic showy-offy transform sequence as if this was the first time we were seeing his robot mode, and—in what can only be described as a moment of ''utter'' bizarreness—Overlord isn't sure who he is! And throughout all of this, ''Ginrai's still got the puncture wound in his shoulder!'' This is bad enough on its own, but it's compounded by the fact that the episode is preceded by a "last time" segment that ''shows clips of all this happening!!''
*The ignorance even carries over to the Autobots, who all claim never to have heard BlackZarak's name before!

===Continuity notes===
*This episode brings to a close the current story arc of the series—centred on the looming threat of BlackZarak, the creation of Godbomber and the formation of God Ginrai—which has been running since "[[Life? Death? The Desperate Lightfoot]]".
*Ginrai recalls the Decepticons' asteroid bombardment of Earth from "[[Expose the Decepticons' Dark Trap!]]", realizing that BlackZarak was responsible for it.
*In the course of the battle, Ginrai discovers that Overlord is not, as he had previously thought, the leader of the Decepticons. It's easy to forget as a member of the audience, but the Autobots are thus far unaware of the existence of [[Devil Z]], and this is the first hint they receive.
*Ginrai was appointed Autobot commander back in "[[The Autobot Warrior, Sixknight?!]]", but this has not really been touched on since then, and he has been seen taking orders from Metalhawk. It is this episode in which he truly embraces his role as protector of Earth and leader of the Autobots.
*Previously seen in "[[Save the Little Girl! The Chōjin Warriors, the Godmasters|Save the Little Girl! The Chojin Warriors, the Godmasters]]" (as the "Atomic Fire Guts") and in "Expose the Decepticons' Dark Trap!" (as the "Super Fire Guts"), Ginrai unleashes the third—and most famous—form of his "Fire Guts" attack for the first time in this episode: the "God Fire Guts."

===Foreign dubbing===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Battle in Space'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Duelo de Titanes'''" ("Duel of Titans")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

===Trivia===
*This episode features the second appearance of the insert song, "[[Kiseki no Transformer]]".
*Okay, so, you're probably wondering how the heck BlackZarak is able to function perfectly when his head's been blasted off his body. It's not the last time it happens in the series, either, but like so many other things, no explanation is ever actually offered, either in the broadcast series, or in any of the direct-to-video clip episodes. The answer to this conundrum is actually given in the ''Masterforce'' [[Super-God Masterforce (manga)|manga]], of all places, but even then, to understand it, one must understand that BlackZarak is, in fact, the original [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] from ''[[The Headmasters (cartoon)|The Headmasters]]''—a fact which is ''also'' not revealed in the broadcast series, but which ''was'' explained in "[[Shūta and Grand's Masterforce Super-Secrets!]]". [[Decepticons' Great Counterattack!|Issue #9]] of the manga explains that Scorponok does not connect to this new Transtector as a head, but is, in fact, wired into the chest compartment. This, then, is how he is able to survive having his noggin blasted off—because that's not where his brains are.
*BlackZarak employs the [[The Transformers: The Movie|age-old]] [[More than Meets the Eye, Part 3|tactic of]] [[The Ultimate Doom, Part 2|choking a robot]], electing to do so in the airless vacuum of space.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|jsubs}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2003 — ''Transformers: Super-God Masterforce'' — DVD Box 02 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — The Takara Collection Vol 2 — ''Transformers: Super-God Masterforce'' ([[Metrodome]]) — Optional commentary by [[Chris McFeely]]. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) — Optional commentary by Chris McFeely. 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2008 — ''The Transformers: Super God Masterforce'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

[[Category:Super-God Masterforce episodes]]

Birth! Headmaster Jrs

2012-05-16T18:36:13Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Masterforce
|ep=4
|image=Hmjrbirth.jpg
|caption=Man and Machine... Power Extreme!
|title="Birth! Headmaster Jrs"
|japanese=誕生!ヘッドマスターJr
|romaji=Tanjō! Headmaster Jr
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Takao Yoshizawa]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|airdate=[[May 3|3 May]] 1988
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''Shūta, Cab and Minerva become Headmaster Juniors, but the Decepticons have recruited humans to their side as well.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:BirthHeadmasterJrs Autobot Jrs in armor.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
[[Metalhawk|Hawk]] recounts historical mysteries and legends to Earth to [[Shūta Gō|Shūta]] and [[Cab]], like UFO sightings and the [[Bermuda Triangle]], and they wonder if the [[Decepticon]]s could have been responsible for them. What is certain for now, however, is that the Decepticon are ''definitely'' active and posing a threat, and when Cab and Shūta wish that they had powers like the [[Autobot]]s, Hawk grows silent, and after hearing the boys' determination, asks them to come to [[Autobot Base]] after school. In the afternoon, Shūta and Cab discover that [[Minerva (Masterforce)|Minerva]] has also been asked to go to the base, although when the trio arrive, Hawk is not sure she is up to the "work" he has planned. Minerva asserts that she has [[Minerva's parents|her parents]]' permission, and since being saved by the Autobots, wants to put her life to use saving others. Hawk accepts her decision, and hands to each of the three children a golden sphere. The puzzled kids are then directed to open them, and inside find a pair of shimmering silver bracelets imprinted with the Autobot [[insignia]]. Hawk explains that they are "[[Master-Brace]]s", and once the kids don them, he direct them to cross their arms, touching the bracelets, and say "Masterforce!" After a moment of hesitation, the trio do as told, and their bodies explode with light and energy. When the blinding colours fade, the kids are suited from head to toe in robotic armor! Dubbed "[[Headmaster Junior]]s", they are now officially Autobot warriors!

[[Image:BirthHeadmasterJrs Shuta Minerva driving.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
The kids soon discover that their physical abilities have been massively enhanced by the power of the Masterforce, but when Cab and Shūta go a little nuts hacking up trees in the forest, Hawk threatens to take their powers away if they don't rein in their violent impulses. A communication from [[Lander]] brings the group back to base, where the kids are presented with three vehicles—Shūta receives a police car, Cab a fire truck, and Minerva an emergency rescue vehicle. They are amazed when the Autobots tell them that they are theirs—with the power of the Masterforce, they have no trouble driving the vehicles expertly. The overjoyed kids race around town all day until the sun hangs low in the sky, and Hawk summons them back to the base for one last surprise. Their vehicles are not simply ordinary Earth machines—they are, in fact, [[Transtector]]s that will allow the kids to transform into robots! However, Hawk makes it clear that he wants the trio to be a rescue squad for battlegrounds, not front-line fighters, and Shūta happily agrees.

[[Image:BirthHeadmasterJrs Decepticon Jrs in transtators.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
Elsewhere, beneath the ocean in [[Decepticon Base]], a similar scene is occurring. The Decepticons have recruited three human teenagers—surly punk [[Wilder]], street thug [[Bullhorn]] and diminutive martial artist [[Cancer (Masterforce)|Cancer]]—and given them their own Master-Braces and Transtectors. The boys are growing restless when [[Blood]] and [[Gilmer]] arrive to inform them that it's time for a test of their abilities, and that they are to go to the surface and run wild. Crossing their Master-Braces, the boys summon their own suits of armor and climb inside the three monstrous mechs waiting for them.

[[Image:BirthHeadmasterJrs Bullhorn stacks cars.jpg|thumb|right|200px|No human being would stack cars like this.]]
Back in the Autobot base, Shūta is the first to put the true power of the Masterforce to the test. Climbing into the driver's seat, he gives the famous command—"Transform! Head On!"—and his police car Transtector transforms into a headless robotic body. Shūta himself is launched through the roof, and by the power of the Masterforce, his armored body changes into a head that connects to the Transtector. Much to both his own amazement and that of Cab and Minerva, Shūta is now a Transformer! Cab and Minerva eagerly follow his lead and assume their robot modes, after which Lander and Hawk give them a brief Transformers history lesson, explaining that the other Autobots and Decepticons are fighting a war out in space. In preparation for the possibility of the Decepticons' return, the [[Pretender]]s on Earth had contacted [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] of the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], in hopes of finding a way to allow humans to fight in the battle, should it ever come. The Master-Brace was the innovation that allowed this to come to pass, and Chromedome was the one who sent the Transtectors and bracelets to Earth. After viewing a recorded message from Chromedome, however, Hawk explains that the transport ship bringing the Transtectors to Earth was attacked, and three sets of bracelets and Transtectors were stolen. It was only a few months after this that the Decepticons' attacks began, and the connection is obvious to Shūta, but before any further discussion can be had, a report comes in from [[Phoenix]] that the Decepticons are attacking Tokyo Harbor!

[[Image:BirthHeadmasterJrs Wilder pokes Shuta.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
At the harbor, a police riot squad is under attack by [[Lobclaw]] [[Seacon (Masterforce)|Seacons]] as Blood and the Decepticon Headmaster Juniors watch from a nearby rooftop. The order is given by Blood for the three boys to run wild, and they transform into their robot modes and begin causing chaos. The Autobot soon arrive and Shūta is all set to leap into combat, but Metalhawk bars his way, reminding him of his promise to work as a rescue operative. While the Pretenders deal with the Seacons and Blood, the Decepticon Headmaster Juniors are busy messing around with cars, kicking them like footballs and batting them around like baseballs. At the same time, Cab is putting out fires when a weeping woman pleads for Minerva to rescue her baby from a burning building. Shūta springs into action, but is confronted by the Decepticon Headmaster Juniors, and realises that they're using the stolen Transtectors. All the same, he has no time for them and tries to get back to the job of saving the baby, but Wilder won't let him, and Minerva won't let him break his promise to Hawk by fighting. As Shūta is shoved around like he's in a schoolyard and the Decepticons are the bullies, Metalhawk arrives and deals with the three tearaways, allowing Shūta to save the baby. Although the child has to be taken to hospital, everything turns out fine, and the mother thanks the Autobots, making Shūta realise the importance of saving lives over fighting.

==Featured characters==
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Metalhawk]] (1)
* [[Diver (Masterforce)|Diver]] (6)
* [[Lander]] (8)
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (18)
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (19)
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (20)
* [[Brainstorm]] (21)
* [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] (22)
* [[Raiden]] (23)
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] (26)
* [[Phoenix]] (28)

'''Human Autobots'''

* [[Cab]] (2)
* [[Shūta Gō]] (3)
* [[Minerva (Masterforce)|Minerva]] (5)

|c2=
* [[Gilmer]] (12)
* [[Blood]] (13)
* [[Sixshot]] (14)
* [[Weirdwolf]] (15)
* [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] (16)
* [[Skullcruncher]] (17)
* [[Sinnertwin (G1)|Sinnertwin]] (24)
* [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] (25)
* [[Dauros]] (27)
* [[Lobclaw]] (29)

'''Human Decepticons'''

* [[Wilder]] (9)
* [[Cancer (Masterforce)|Cancer]] (10)
* [[Bullhorn]] (11)

|c3=
*Mother (30)
*Doctor (31)

|c4=
*[[Parrot and armadillo|Parrot]] (4)
*[[Parrot and armadillo|Armadillo]] (7)

}}

With this episode, Shūta, Cab and Minerva officially become members of the Autobot army, and are now listed in the Autobots section of the character table.

==Quotes==

{{Note|The following quotes are from the Omni Productions dub}}

"This is a Transformer!"
:—'''Hawk''', as Minerva's Master-Braces are revealed.

"They must be responsible! They're bandits and villains! I'm gonna clean out all of them!"
:—'''Shūta''' on the Decepticons.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*When Shūta and Cab show their determination to Hawk, and react with surprise when he tells them he has something to show them, Cab is colored with a Caucasian skin-tone, as opposed to his normal dark shade.
*When Shūta goes to punch Wilder for the first time, the white part of his head is colored blue.

===Continuity errors===
*When the Autobots attack the Lobclaws, two policemen are heard shouting.
**The first one says "Oh, the Autobots!" Now, this is not strictly a continuity error compared to what we have already seen of the series, as the frequent activity of Transformers on Earth throughout the previous series should mean that they are well-known creatures. However, as the series progresses, it becomes readily apparent that next to no-one has any idea what Transformers are—when introduced, [[Ginrai]] is clueless and has to have it explained with old newspaper cuttings, and particularly, in "[[Expose the Decepticons' Dark Trap!]]", the existence of Transformers is regarded as a horrifying revelation by the population of Earth. Just how long ''is'' this series supposed to be set after ''The Headmasters''—and why does that one fairly-young-looking policeman know about Autobots when no-one else seems to?
**The second policeman shouts "The Pretenders have come!" Well, that's much more cut and dried—how would a human know what a Pretender is?

===Transformers references===
*Among the mysteries and legends listed by Hawk are the [[Nazca Lines]] of [[Peru]]. These were the site of [[Dauros]]'s prison, as seen in "[[Terror! The Decepticons' Manhunt]]".
*This episode also contains a few callbacks to the previous series, ''[[The Headmasters (cartoon)|The Headmasters]].''
**When the history of the Transformers' war is recounted, a clip from the opening sequence of ''The Headmasters'' is used to illustrate it, followed by the scene of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] destroying [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] from "[[The Final Showdown on Earth (Part 2)]]".
**The piece of animation used to begin Chromedome's message (which depicts him dodging laser fire in car mode then transforming) is taken from his eyecatch (commercial bumper) from ''The Headmasters''.
**Transtectors were the robotic bodies of the Headmasters featured in the series, a product of the super-science of the planet [[Master (planet)|Master]]. The invention of the [[Master-Brace]]s now allows humans to operate them—a way to allow Earth's own inhabitants to defend the planet, given that the Autobots in space can not easily return to Earth in a hurry following the destruction of the [[space bridge]] in "[[Daniel Faces His Biggest Crisis Ever!!]]"

===Foreign dubbing===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Junior Headmaster'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
::*When asking to join the Autobots, rather than claiming to be good with computers, Shūta claims to be good at... snooker. Wha?
::*Cancer asks if Wilder needs any help during their attack and seems quite concerned for his fellow Decepticon.
::*Shūta's "Look, I've changed!" line right after the kids activate their bracers for the first time is delivered by Cab's voice actor. In turn, a short time later, Cab's "So now we're all junior warriors?" line is delivered by Shūta's voice actor.

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Los Pequeños Guerreros'''" ("The Young Warriors")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

===Trivia===
*In the previous two episodes, the Decepticons have been attempting to create 'human Decepticons' in the [[Destroid]]s, first with corpses, then with live subjects. The goal of a Transformer-powered human becomes a reality in this episode with the successful deployment of the Headmaster Juniors, and the Destroid plan is never revisited.
*As the introduction of the Headmaster Juniors, this episode establishes the main concept of ''Super-God Masterforce''—humans as Transformers. The concept, however, is often regarded as a major turn-off for traditional Transformers fans, given how strange and different it is from anything seen before or after it. That said, often the case is that fans have not seen anything from the show, and the descriptions they hear of it conjure up mental images of Shūta and co. sitting in cockpits, piloting their mecha ''Power Rangers''-style. In truth, it is not a case of a human ''piloting'' a Transformer—the human ''is'' the Transformer. The process is exactly the same as with the Headmasters from the previous series, only the heads happen to be humans instead of little robots.
*In Japan, the traditional way to write one's name is family name first, given name second. Hence, "Shūta Gō" is written as "Gō Shūta". It is from this that Shūta's "Transformer" name is created—when bonded to his Transtector, he's known as "Goshooter". Of course, this is really just his "merchandising" name, used on his toy and the one-time on-screen caption that appears when he first transforms in this episode—otherwise, throughout the show, whatever mode he's in, everyone still just refers to him as "Shūta".

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|jsubs}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2003 — ''Transformers: Super-God Masterforce'' — DVD Box 01 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — The Takara Collection Vol 2 — ''Transformers: Super-God Masterforce'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2008 — ''The Transformers: Super God Masterforce'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) — Optional [[Omni Productions|Omni]] dub. 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) — Optional Omni dub.

[[Category:Super-God Masterforce episodes]]

Birth! Headmaster Jrs

2012-05-16T18:35:53Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Masterforce
|ep=4
|image=Hmjrbirth.jpg
|caption=Man and Machine... Power Extreme!
|title="Birth! Headmaster Jrs"
|japanese=誕生!ヘッドマスターJr
|romaji=Tanjō! Headmaster Jr
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Takao Yoshizawa]]
|animation studio=[[Toei]]
|airdate=[[May 3|3 May]] 1988
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''Shūta, Cab and Minerva become Headmaster Juniors, but the Decepticons have recruited humans to their side as well.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:BirthHeadmasterJrs Autobot Jrs in armor.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
[[Metalhawk|Hawk]] recounts historical mysteries and legends to Earth to [[Shūta Gō|Shūta]] and [[Cab]], like UFO sightings and the [[Bermuda Triangle]], and they wonder if the [[Decepticon]]s could have been responsible for them. What is certain for now, however, is that the Decepticon are ''definitely'' active and posing a threat, and when Cab and Shūta wish that they had powers like the [[Autobot]]s, Hawk grows silent, and after hearing the boys' determination, asks them to come to [[Autobot Base]] after school. In the afternoon, Shūta and Cab discover that [[Minerva (Masterforce)|Minerva]] has also been asked to go to the base, although when the trio arrive, Hawk is not sure she is up to the "work" he has planned. Minerva asserts that she has [[Minerva's parents|her parents]]' permission, and since being saved by the Autobots, wants to put her life to use saving others. Hawk accepts her decision, and hands to each of the three children a golden sphere. The puzzled kids are then directed to open them, and inside find a pair of shimmering silver bracelets imprinted with the Autobot [[insignia]]. Hawk explains that they are "[[Master-Brace]]s", and once the kids don them, he direct them to cross their arms, touching the bracelets, and say "Masterforce!" After a moment of hesitation, the trio do as told, and their bodies explode with light and energy. When the blinding colours fade, the kids are suited from head to toe in robotic armor! Dubbed "[[Headmaster Junior]]s", they are now officially Autobot warriors!

[[Image:BirthHeadmasterJrs Shuta Minerva driving.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
The kids soon discover that their physical abilities have been massively enhanced by the power of the Masterforce, but when Cab and Shūta go a little nuts hacking up trees in the forest, Hawk threatens to take their powers away if they don't rein in their violent impulses. A communication from [[Lander]] brings the group back to base, where the kids are presented with three vehicles—Shūta receives a police car, Cab a fire truck, and Minerva an emergency rescue vehicle. They are amazed when the Autobots tell them that they are theirs—with the power of the Masterforce, they have no trouble driving the vehicles expertly. The overjoyed kids race around town all day until the sun hangs low in the sky, and Hawk summons them back to the base for one last surprise. Their vehicles are not simply ordinary Earth machines—they are, in fact, [[Transtector]]s that will allow the kids to transform into robots! However, Hawk makes it clear that he wants the trio to be a rescue squad for battlegrounds, not front-line fighters, and Shūta happily agrees.

[[Image:BirthHeadmasterJrs Decepticon Jrs in transtators.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
Elsewhere, beneath the ocean in [[Decepticon Base]], a similar scene is occurring. The Decepticons have recruited three human teenagers—surly punk [[Wilder]], street thug [[Bullhorn]] and diminutive martial artist [[Cancer (Masterforce)|Cancer]]—and given them their own Master-Braces and Transtectors. The boys are growing restless when [[Blood]] and [[Gilmer]] arrive to inform them that it's time for a test of their abilities, and that they are to go to the surface and run wild. Crossing their Master-Braces, the boys summon their own suits of armor and climb inside the three monstrous mechs waiting for them.

[[Image:BirthHeadmasterJrs Bullhorn stacks cars.jpg|thumb|right|200px|No human being would stack cars like this.]]
Back in the Autobot base, Shūta is the first to put the true power of the Masterforce to the test. Climbing into the driver's seat, he gives the famous command—"Transform! Head On!"—and his police car Transtector transforms into a headless robotic body. Shūta himself is launched through the roof, and by the power of the Masterforce, his armored body changes into a head that connects to the Transtector. Much to both his own amazement and that of Cab and Minerva, Shūta is now a Transformer! Cab and Minerva eagerly follow his lead and assume their robot modes, after which Lander and Hawk give them a brief Transformers history lesson, explaining that the other Autobots and Decepticons are fighting a war out in space. In preparation for the possibility of the Decepticons' return, the [[Pretender]]s on Earth had contacted [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] of the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], in hopes of finding a way to allow humans to fight in the battle, should it ever come. The Master-Brace was the innovation that allowed this to come to pass, and Chromedome was the one who sent the Transtectors and bracelets to Earth. After viewing a recorded message from Chromedome, however, Hawk explains that the transport ship bringing the Transtectors to Earth was attacked, and three sets of bracelets and Transtectors were stolen. It was only a few months after this that the Decepticons' attacks began, and the connection is obvious to Shūta, but before any further discussion can be had, a report comes in from [[Phoenix]] that the Decepticons are attacking Tokyo Harbor!

[[Image:BirthHeadmasterJrs Wilder pokes Shuta.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
At the harbor, a police riot squad is under attack by [[Lobclaw]] [[Seacon (Masterforce)|Seacons]] as Blood and the Decepticon Headmaster Juniors watch from a nearby rooftop. The order is given by Blood for the three boys to run wild, and they transform into their robot modes and begin causing chaos. The Autobot soon arrive and Shūta is all set to leap into combat, but Metalhawk bars his way, reminding him of his promise to work as a rescue operative. While the Pretenders deal with the Seacons and Blood, the Decepticon Headmaster Juniors are busy messing around with cars, kicking them like footballs and batting them around like baseballs. At the same time, Cab is putting out fires when a weeping woman pleads for Minerva to rescue her baby from a burning building. Shūta springs into action, but is confronted by the Decepticon Headmaster Juniors, and realises that they're using the stolen Transtectors. All the same, he has no time for them and tries to get back to the job of saving the baby, but Wilder won't let him, and Minerva won't let him break his promise to Hawk by fighting. As Shūta is shoved around like he's in a schoolyard and the Decepticons are the bullies, Metalhawk arrives and deals with the three tearaways, allowing Shūta to save the baby. Although the child has to be taken to hospital, everything turns out fine, and the mother thanks the Autobots, making Shūta realise the importance of saving lives over fighting.

==Featured characters==
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Metalhawk]] (1)
* [[Diver (Masterforce)|Diver]] (6)
* [[Lander]] (8)
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (18)
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (19)
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (20)
* [[Brainstorm]] (21)
* [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] (22)
* [[Raiden]] (23)
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] (26)
* [[Phoenix]] (28)

'''Human Autobots'''

* [[Cab]] (2)
* [[Shūta Gō]] (3)
* [[Minerva (Masterforce)|Minerva]] (5)

|c2=
* [[Gilmer]] (12)
* [[Blood]] (13)
* [[Sixshot]] (14)
* [[Weirdwolf]] (15)
* [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] (16)
* [[Skullcruncher]] (17)
* [[Sinnertwin (G1)|Sinnertwin]] (24)
* [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] (25)
* [[Dauros]] (27)
* [[Lobclaw]] (29)

'''Human Decepticons'''

* [[Wilder]] (9)
* [[Cancer (Masterforce)|Cancer]] (10)
* [[Bullhorn]] (11)

|c3=
*Mother (30)
*Doctor (31)

|c4=
*[[Parrot and armadillo|Parrot]] (4)
*[[Parrot and armadillo|Armadillo]] (7)

}}

With this episode, Shūta, Cab and Minerva officially become members of the Autobot army, and are now listed in the Autobots section of the character table.

==Quotes==

{{Note|The following quotes are from the Omni Productions dub}}

"This is a Transformer!"
:—'''Hawk''', as Minerva's Master-Braces are revealed.

"They must be responsible! They're bandits and villains! I'm gonna clean out all of them!"
:—'''Shūta''' on the Decepticons.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*When Shūta and Cab show their determination to Hawk, and react with surprise when he tells them he has something to show them, Cab is colored with a Caucasian skin-tone, as opposed to his normal dark shade.
*When Shūta goes tp punch Wilder for the first time, the white part of his head is colored blue.

===Continuity errors===
*When the Autobots attack the Lobclaws, two policemen are heard shouting.
**The first one says "Oh, the Autobots!" Now, this is not strictly a continuity error compared to what we have already seen of the series, as the frequent activity of Transformers on Earth throughout the previous series should mean that they are well-known creatures. However, as the series progresses, it becomes readily apparent that next to no-one has any idea what Transformers are—when introduced, [[Ginrai]] is clueless and has to have it explained with old newspaper cuttings, and particularly, in "[[Expose the Decepticons' Dark Trap!]]", the existence of Transformers is regarded as a horrifying revelation by the population of Earth. Just how long ''is'' this series supposed to be set after ''The Headmasters''—and why does that one fairly-young-looking policeman know about Autobots when no-one else seems to?
**The second policeman shouts "The Pretenders have come!" Well, that's much more cut and dried—how would a human know what a Pretender is?

===Transformers references===
*Among the mysteries and legends listed by Hawk are the [[Nazca Lines]] of [[Peru]]. These were the site of [[Dauros]]'s prison, as seen in "[[Terror! The Decepticons' Manhunt]]".
*This episode also contains a few callbacks to the previous series, ''[[The Headmasters (cartoon)|The Headmasters]].''
**When the history of the Transformers' war is recounted, a clip from the opening sequence of ''The Headmasters'' is used to illustrate it, followed by the scene of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] destroying [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] from "[[The Final Showdown on Earth (Part 2)]]".
**The piece of animation used to begin Chromedome's message (which depicts him dodging laser fire in car mode then transforming) is taken from his eyecatch (commercial bumper) from ''The Headmasters''.
**Transtectors were the robotic bodies of the Headmasters featured in the series, a product of the super-science of the planet [[Master (planet)|Master]]. The invention of the [[Master-Brace]]s now allows humans to operate them—a way to allow Earth's own inhabitants to defend the planet, given that the Autobots in space can not easily return to Earth in a hurry following the destruction of the [[space bridge]] in "[[Daniel Faces His Biggest Crisis Ever!!]]"

===Foreign dubbing===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Junior Headmaster'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
::*When asking to join the Autobots, rather than claiming to be good with computers, Shūta claims to be good at... snooker. Wha?
::*Cancer asks if Wilder needs any help during their attack and seems quite concerned for his fellow Decepticon.
::*Shūta's "Look, I've changed!" line right after the kids activate their bracers for the first time is delivered by Cab's voice actor. In turn, a short time later, Cab's "So now we're all junior warriors?" line is delivered by Shūta's voice actor.

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Los Pequeños Guerreros'''" ("The Young Warriors")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

===Trivia===
*In the previous two episodes, the Decepticons have been attempting to create 'human Decepticons' in the [[Destroid]]s, first with corpses, then with live subjects. The goal of a Transformer-powered human becomes a reality in this episode with the successful deployment of the Headmaster Juniors, and the Destroid plan is never revisited.
*As the introduction of the Headmaster Juniors, this episode establishes the main concept of ''Super-God Masterforce''—humans as Transformers. The concept, however, is often regarded as a major turn-off for traditional Transformers fans, given how strange and different it is from anything seen before or after it. That said, often the case is that fans have not seen anything from the show, and the descriptions they hear of it conjure up mental images of Shūta and co. sitting in cockpits, piloting their mecha ''Power Rangers''-style. In truth, it is not a case of a human ''piloting'' a Transformer—the human ''is'' the Transformer. The process is exactly the same as with the Headmasters from the previous series, only the heads happen to be humans instead of little robots.
*In Japan, the traditional way to write one's name is family name first, given name second. Hence, "Shūta Gō" is written as "Gō Shūta". It is from this that Shūta's "Transformer" name is created—when bonded to his Transtector, he's known as "Goshooter". Of course, this is really just his "merchandising" name, used on his toy and the one-time on-screen caption that appears when he first transforms in this episode—otherwise, throughout the show, whatever mode he's in, everyone still just refers to him as "Shūta".

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|jsubs}}
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2003 — ''Transformers: Super-God Masterforce'' — DVD Box 01 ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2006 — The Takara Collection Vol 2 — ''Transformers: Super-God Masterforce'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2008 — ''The Transformers: Super God Masterforce'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) — Optional [[Omni Productions|Omni]] dub. 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment) — Optional Omni dub.

[[Category:Super-God Masterforce episodes]]

The Final Showdown on Earth (Part 2)

2012-05-13T15:50:24Z

RQ87-D2: /* Quotes */

{{episode
|series=Headmasters
|ep=35
|image=Earthshowdown2.jpg
|caption=Earth, right before being demolished for a hyperspace bypass.
|title="The Final Showdown on Earth (Part 2)"
|japanese=最後の地球大決戦 (後編)
|romaji=Saigo no Chikyū Daikessen (Kōhen)
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[March 28|28 March]] 1988
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Katsutoshi Sasaki]]
|animation studio=Toei
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''With Death Towers threatening to tear the Earth apart, everything comes down to a climactic battle between the Autobots and Decepticons at the North Pole, where Fortress Maximus and Scorponok have their final showdown!'''

==Synopsis==
[[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] arrives at [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Battleship Maximus]] to inform the [[Autobot]]s of the emergence of the third [[Death Tower]] in [[Washington, D.C.]]. Mapping out the locations of the existing towers, Fortress speculates on the location of the fourth tower, and they theorise that the [[Decepticon]]s may be hiding beneath the [[Mediterranean Sea]]. [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] goes one better, putting the pieces of the puzzle together—according to [[Earth]] legends, the ancient continent of [[Lemuria (G1)|Lemuria]] was said to have sunk beneath the [[Indian Ocean]], and could be where the Decepticons are getting the [[crysmagnetal]] used to make the Death Towers. Just then, a report comes in from [[Punch (G1)|Punch]], revealing that [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] is outfitting the various Death Towers with energy induction boosters to amplify their effects, and that the fourth tower is about to be set up in [[Cairo]], [[Egypt]]. Battleship Maximus immediately lifts off for Egypt.

[[Image:Horrorcons Trio Formation.jpg|left|200px|thumb]]
Meanwhile, [[Sixshot]] is already in Egypt, examining the area. And he's not the only Decepticon around—[[Soundwave (G1)|Soundblaster]] is stationed in the [[Alps]], and reports to [[Apeface]], standing guard by a pyramid, that Battleship Maximus is approaching. Apeface alerts Scorponok, and the Decepticon [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] are sent out to attack. They clash with the Autobot Headmasters on the hull of Maximus, revealing their new "[[Trio Formation]]"—they transform to beast mode and stack on top of each other like a totem pole. The Autobots are not quite sure what to make of it, but any worries are taken care of when Apeface and [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] pile on top of the formation, unbalancing it; Fortress then fires Maximus's boosters, and the sudden jolt sends the villains toppling off. At that point, the fourth Death Tower emerges!

In [[San Francisco]], while [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] is talking with his injured [[Carly|mother]], Wheelie reports that Fortress has called for all available Autobots. [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] tells Daniel that he will take care of Carly, and not to be distracted from the task before him, and Daniel and Wheelie head off.

[[Image:Hm35 master sword zappped.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
Back in Egypt, Scorponok directs [[Wingspan]] and [[Pounce]], seemingly repaired after their clash with Sixshot, in setting the energy induction booster into the Death Tower. With this task accomplished, the tower begins to surge violently with energy, and Scorponok emerges from beneath the desert sands and orders the Decepticons to climb aboard. Cackling that even Fortress has a role in his plan, Scorponok lifts off, promising to see the Autobots at the [[North Pole]]. Fortress transforms into Fortress Maximus and attempts to stop him, but a tendril of energy from the Death Tower blasts him out of the sky. Sixshot, however, is able to stay on Scorponok's tail, and follows him as he dives deep into the Indian Ocean and vanishes into the inky depths. Sixshot finds himself caught up in a sub-aquatic whirlpool, and when he is disgorged, is stunned to discover that he has been swept into the undersea ruins of Lemuria! Scorponok is stunned to see Sixshot alive, but maintains his facade of happiness at the ninja's safe return, and shows him the furnace that is smelting the crysmagnetal. After Scorponok explains that the Earth will be destroyed thanks to the energy-accumulating satellite he has placed in orbit, Sixshot bids him farewell, and Scorponok accuses him of scheming to betray him. Scorponok opens fire on the ninja, but his blast passes harmlessly through him—he has merely fired upon one of Sixshot's hologram duplicates, and the true Sixshot escapes.

[[Image:HM35 Wheelie Daniel help Maximus.jpg|left|200px|thumb]]
With energy emissions from all the Death Towers increasing, and a fifth Death Tower appearing at the South Pole, Earth is encircled by a field of energy that is wreaking havoc with the natural balance of the planet. Following Scorponok's last words, Fortress pilots Battleship Maximus to the North Pole, with the whole Autobot army in tow. Unsurprisingly, the entire Decepticon army is waiting for them, with a dais of inactive crysmagnetal behind them. A hail of laser fire heralds the beginning of a colossal battle—Battleship Maximus collides with the [[Zarak Shield]], the Targetmasters square off, [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] and his cassettes save [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] and [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] from [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]]'s hypnosis, and Fortress becomes Fortress Maximus to confront Scorponok directly. As the two giant foes grapple, Scorponok distracts Maximus by telling him to watch out for their fortress overhead—a complete lie that Maximus falls straight into, allowing Scorponok to deprive him of the [[Master Sword]] and knock him aside. Wheelie and Daniel come to his aid, distracting Scorponok with a few blasts of their own and allowing Maximus to regain his sword, but then [[Battletrap]] attacks the two youths. A laser beam comes out of nowhere to strike Battletrap, who is then tackled by [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]]; Daniel realizes that Sixshot has come to their rescue, but the ninja refuses to show himself, until [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] attempts to stomp Daniel, forcing Sixshot to save him. Sixshot tells Daniel to take care of himself, and vanishes once more.

[[Image:HM35 Maximus unleashes power.jpg|right|200px|thumb]]
Meanwhile, Fortress Maximus and Scorponok's duel has moved, allowing Scorponok to position himself on the crysmagnetal dais. As Fortress leaps at his opponent, a glint of light in the sky heralds the arrival overhead of the energy-absorbing satellite, which discharges its energy back into the dais, completing the circuit and threatening to tear the Earth apart. With both Maximus and Scorponok caught in the beam, Scorponok disconnects from his [[transtector]], retreating to the fringes of Earth's atmosphere with the rest of the Decepticons to watch. The Headmasters attempt to power up their commander, entering [[Head Formation]] and sending their energy to him, but it is not enough, and Fortress begins to buckle. Daniel recalls Sixshot telling him about the strong bond of friendship the Autobots have, and hits upon the idea to have all the Autobots lend Maximus their strength. Wheelie calls out to the assembled Autobot forces, and they all link arms in a ring around the Headmasters—thus combined in "Final Formation", the Headmasters channel the combined energy of the entire Autobot army into Fortress Maximus. Supercharged by his troops, Fortress Maximus uses the Master Sword to redirect the energy beam back into the satellite, destroying it, much to the shock of the watching Decepticons. Then, with a single slash of his mighty blade, Fortress Maximus destroys the Zarak Shield and bisects Scorponok's transtector, which explodes into smithereens.

Time passes. With the victory at the North Pole, the Decepticon forces have finally been broken, and they withdraw from Earth, but they still pose a threat to the other planets in the universe, and it is the duty of the Autobots to pursue them and stop them. As the entirety of the Autobots forces gather to leave Earth for good, Fortress, the Headmasters and Wheelie say goodbye to Daniel, Spike and Carly. The farewell between Daniel and Wheelie is especially tearful, and the two vow to see each other again. Battleship Maximus lifts off, and Daniel cries out his goodbyes, which echo through the air as the Autobots vanish into the setting sun.

[['Til all are one]].

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
{{{!}}border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background:transparent"
{{!}}-
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] (1)
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (2)
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (3)
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress/Fortress Maximus]] (4)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (5)
* [[Pointblank]] (6)
* [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] (7)
* [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] (8)
* [[Brainstorm]] (9)
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (10)
* [[Punch (G1)|Punch]] (11)
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (12)
* [[Pointech]] (26)
* [[Spoil (Headmasters)|Spoil]] (27)
* [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] (31)
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Computron (G1)|Computron]] (32)
* [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]] (33)
* [[Shōki]] (34)
* [[Suiken]] (35)
* [[Getsuei]] (36)
* [[Seizan]] (37)
* [[Kaen]] (38)
* [[Yukikaze (Headmasters)|Yukikaze]] (39)
* [[Peaceman (Headmasters)|Peaceman]] (48)
* [[Raiden]] (49)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] (53)
* [[Rewind]] (54)
* [[Eject]] (55)
* [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]] (56)
* [[Ramhorn (G1)|Ramhorn]] (57)
{{!}}}
|c2=
{{{!}}border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background:transparent"
{{!}}-
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Sixshot]] (14)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundblaster]] (15)
* [[Apeface]] (16)
* [[Skullcruncher]] (17)
* [[Weirdwolf]] (18)
* [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] (19)
* [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] (20)
* [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] (23)
* [[Pounce]] (24)
* [[Wingspan]] (25)
* [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] (28)
* [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] (29)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (30)
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]] (40)
* [[Flywheels]] (41)
* [[Battletrap]] (42)
* [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] (43)
* [[Misfire]] (44)
* [[Triggerhappy]] (45)
* [[Predaking]] (46)
* [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] (47)
* [[Blowpipe (Headmasters)|Blowpipe]] (50)
* [[Caliburst (Headmasters)|Caliburst]] (51)
* [[Aimless (Headmasters)|Aimless]] (52)
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (58)
* [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]] (59)
{{!}}}
|c3=
* [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]] (13)
* [[Carly|Carly Witwicky]] (21)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (22)
}}

==Quotes==
{{note|The following quotes are from the [[Omni Productions]] dub.}}

"Commander, pull yourself together!"
:—'''Fortress Maximus'''

"Wahahaha! I'm going to betray you! Goodbye!" 
"Darn it! I'm going to totally destroy you along with Earth!"
:—'''Sixshot''' lays his cards on the table. '''Scorponok''' isn't impressed.

"Just look above you." 
"Above me?!" 
"HAW!"
:—'''Scorponok''' tricks '''Fortress Maximus'''.

"Darn it!"
:—'''Scorponok''' reacts to his master plan being ruined.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*The map of the world viewed by the Autobots near the start is woefully off. Africa is the size of Australia and North America is almost as big as Europe and Russia. Greenland appears to neighbor Great Britain.
*As Metroplex holds Wheelie and Daniel in his hand, his head is offmodel—his antenna appear to be freestanding instead of attached to the sides, the slot on his forehead is red, and his cheek lines extend right up to his forehead.
*When Fortress Maximus lifts the Master Sword after striking, the lowest segment of the blade has orange and yellow stripes on it that it's never had before. These details actually ''are'' on the toy of the sword, but they've not appeared in the cartoon before!

===Continuity errors===
*The ''Queen World'' was a marine blue last episode, but this episode is pale purple.
*Seems there were a few crossed wires regarding the Decepticon attacks last episode. Here, the injured Carly is seen being carried off the ''Queen World'' luxury liner—except that she was hurt in a plane crash caused by the energy discharge from the Death Towers, and the ''Queen World'' ''sank'' as a direct result of a Decepticon attack. Whoops!
*Despite it seeming very much like Sixshot killed them last episode (knocking their heads off, with wires and circuits lying all over the place), Wingspan and Pounce are up and about with no ill effects here.
*As in "[[The Master Sword Is in Danger!!]]", Scorponok's smaller form is depicted as tiny compared to the other Decepticons, whereas he's usually about the same size as Sixshot.

===Transformers references===
*The Decepticons all apparently disappeared from Earth back in "[[Miraculous Warriors, Targetmasters (Part 1)]]", but we only ever saw a small number of them in the intervening episodes. This episode reveals that the characters that we have not seen since then, like Scourge, Menasor and Devastator, have been hiding in [[Lemuria (G1)|Lemuria]], preparing for Scorponok's plan.

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''The Last Battle on Earth, Part 2'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
:**The "[[Trio Formation]]" performed by the Decepticon Headmasters is inexplicably (even for the Omni dub) referred to as the "[[Buddha]] Formation".
:**Fortress mentions rebuilding [[Mars (planet)|Mars]] as one of the tasks the Autobots have ahead of them.
:**The reprise of the title sequence at the end of the episode is accompanied by complete silence, rather than the [[The Headmasters (song)|theme song]] as on the Japanese soundtrack.

:*''Title:'' "'''The Final Showdown on Earth: Part 2'''" ([[Shout! Factory]] sub)

===Trivia===
*According to ''[[Transformers Generations]]'', as noted above, this episode aired on the 28th of March. This would make it the only ''The Headmasters'' episode to air on a day other than the show's normal Friday, being screened on the following Monday, only three days after [[The Final Showdown on Earth (Part 1)|Part 1]].
*After the closing scene of the episode, but before the credits, the episode ends with the theme tune playing alongside a "clean" version of the opening sequence (devoid of on-screen text). The Decepticons do ''not'' flicker in this segment, as they have been doing in the actual opening since "[[Explosion on Mars!! Maximus Is in Danger]]", and a shot from the conclusion of Fortress Maximus's transformation sequence is added to the end of the segment.
*The [[The Headmasters issue 8|eighth and final chapter]] of the manga version of ''The Headmasters'' published in ''[[TV Magazine]]'' consist of an additional scene that fits into this episode, between the destruction of Scorponok's transtector, but before the Autobots leave Earth. In this short story, Soundblaster makes a last ditch attack against Chromedome, Spike, Carly, Daniel and Wheelie with [[Slugfest (G1)|Slugfest]] and [[Overkill (G1)|Overkill]] (who did not appear in the ''Headmasters'' anime at all), [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]] returns, having been gone since "[[Cybertron Is in Grave Danger, Part 2]]", and Sixshot plans to travel to many different planets, to learn new transformations. Comments made by Rodimus about humans and Transformers working and evolving together, Sixshot's desire to "transform" into a human, and the narratives promise that Earth will not go unguarded all seem to foreshadow the next series, ''[[Super-God Masterforce (franchise)|Super-God Masterforce]]''.
*A special prose "epilogue" published in ''TV Magazine'' filled in the gap between ''The Headmasters'' and ''Super-God Masterforce'', explaining that, after the events of this episode, the conflict shifted to a space-based war between the two sides, involving exchanges between [[Chaar]] and [[Athenia]]. The advanced technology of planet [[Master (planet)|Master]] formed the backbone of this conflict, but the destruction of the [[space bridge]] back in "[[Daniel Faces His Biggest Crisis Ever!!]]" meant that transport to and from the Earth were severely limited, hence the large role played by humans in ''Masterforce''.
* The Latin American dub for this episode is just crazy, as if the voice actors thought that nobody was watching the show anymore, since they use the opportunity to have everybody either making jokes or acting out of character, like Weirdwolf being "weird" for once (and I mean gay, no kidding!), even breaking the "fourth wall" when mentioning staff from the dubbing studio; also, the narrator changed his voice from a energetic person to an old one, of course, there WERE people seeing the show, (and still seeing it through ''Masterforce'' and ''Victory''). At least they didn't make Wheelie rhyme.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|omni}}
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1996 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2002 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' — DVD Box ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2005 — The Takara Collection Vol 1 — ''Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

{{DEFAULTSORT:Final Showdown on Earth (Part 2)}}
[[Category:The Headmasters episodes]]

The Final Showdown on Earth (Part 2)

2012-05-13T15:30:05Z

RQ87-D2: /* Quotes */

{{episode
|series=Headmasters
|ep=35
|image=Earthshowdown2.jpg
|caption=Earth, right before being demolished for a hyperspace bypass.
|title="The Final Showdown on Earth (Part 2)"
|japanese=最後の地球大決戦 (後編)
|romaji=Saigo no Chikyū Daikessen (Kōhen)
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[March 28|28 March]] 1988
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Katsutoshi Sasaki]]
|animation studio=Toei
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''With Death Towers threatening to tear the Earth apart, everything comes down to a climactic battle between the Autobots and Decepticons at the North Pole, where Fortress Maximus and Scorponok have their final showdown!'''

==Synopsis==
[[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] arrives at [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Battleship Maximus]] to inform the [[Autobot]]s of the emergence of the third [[Death Tower]] in [[Washington, D.C.]]. Mapping out the locations of the existing towers, Fortress speculates on the location of the fourth tower, and they theorise that the [[Decepticon]]s may be hiding beneath the [[Mediterranean Sea]]. [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] goes one better, putting the pieces of the puzzle together—according to [[Earth]] legends, the ancient continent of [[Lemuria (G1)|Lemuria]] was said to have sunk beneath the [[Indian Ocean]], and could be where the Decepticons are getting the [[crysmagnetal]] used to make the Death Towers. Just then, a report comes in from [[Punch (G1)|Punch]], revealing that [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] is outfitting the various Death Towers with energy induction boosters to amplify their effects, and that the fourth tower is about to be set up in [[Cairo]], [[Egypt]]. Battleship Maximus immediately lifts off for Egypt.

[[Image:Horrorcons Trio Formation.jpg|left|200px|thumb]]
Meanwhile, [[Sixshot]] is already in Egypt, examining the area. And he's not the only Decepticon around—[[Soundwave (G1)|Soundblaster]] is stationed in the [[Alps]], and reports to [[Apeface]], standing guard by a pyramid, that Battleship Maximus is approaching. Apeface alerts Scorponok, and the Decepticon [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] are sent out to attack. They clash with the Autobot Headmasters on the hull of Maximus, revealing their new "[[Trio Formation]]"—they transform to beast mode and stack on top of each other like a totem pole. The Autobots are not quite sure what to make of it, but any worries are taken care of when Apeface and [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] pile on top of the formation, unbalancing it; Fortress then fires Maximus's boosters, and the sudden jolt sends the villains toppling off. At that point, the fourth Death Tower emerges!

In [[San Francisco]], while [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] is talking with his injured [[Carly|mother]], Wheelie reports that Fortress has called for all available Autobots. [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] tells Daniel that he will take care of Carly, and not to be distracted from the task before him, and Daniel and Wheelie head off.

[[Image:Hm35 master sword zappped.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
Back in Egypt, Scorponok directs [[Wingspan]] and [[Pounce]], seemingly repaired after their clash with Sixshot, in setting the energy induction booster into the Death Tower. With this task accomplished, the tower begins to surge violently with energy, and Scorponok emerges from beneath the desert sands and orders the Decepticons to climb aboard. Cackling that even Fortress has a role in his plan, Scorponok lifts off, promising to see the Autobots at the [[North Pole]]. Fortress transforms into Fortress Maximus and attempts to stop him, but a tendril of energy from the Death Tower blasts him out of the sky. Sixshot, however, is able to stay on Scorponok's tail, and follows him as he dives deep into the Indian Ocean and vanishes into the inky depths. Sixshot finds himself caught up in a sub-aquatic whirlpool, and when he is disgorged, is stunned to discover that he has been swept into the undersea ruins of Lemuria! Scorponok is stunned to see Sixshot alive, but maintains his facade of happiness at the ninja's safe return, and shows him the furnace that is smelting the crysmagnetal. After Scorponok explains that the Earth will be destroyed thanks to the energy-accumulating satellite he has placed in orbit, Sixshot bids him farewell, and Scorponok accuses him of scheming to betray him. Scorponok opens fire on the ninja, but his blast passes harmlessly through him—he has merely fired upon one of Sixshot's hologram duplicates, and the true Sixshot escapes.

[[Image:HM35 Wheelie Daniel help Maximus.jpg|left|200px|thumb]]
With energy emissions from all the Death Towers increasing, and a fifth Death Tower appearing at the South Pole, Earth is encircled by a field of energy that is wreaking havoc with the natural balance of the planet. Following Scorponok's last words, Fortress pilots Battleship Maximus to the North Pole, with the whole Autobot army in tow. Unsurprisingly, the entire Decepticon army is waiting for them, with a dais of inactive crysmagnetal behind them. A hail of laser fire heralds the beginning of a colossal battle—Battleship Maximus collides with the [[Zarak Shield]], the Targetmasters square off, [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] and his cassettes save [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] and [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] from [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]]'s hypnosis, and Fortress becomes Fortress Maximus to confront Scorponok directly. As the two giant foes grapple, Scorponok distracts Maximus by telling him to watch out for their fortress overhead—a complete lie that Maximus falls straight into, allowing Scorponok to deprive him of the [[Master Sword]] and knock him aside. Wheelie and Daniel come to his aid, distracting Scorponok with a few blasts of their own and allowing Maximus to regain his sword, but then [[Battletrap]] attacks the two youths. A laser beam comes out of nowhere to strike Battletrap, who is then tackled by [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]]; Daniel realizes that Sixshot has come to their rescue, but the ninja refuses to show himself, until [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] attempts to stomp Daniel, forcing Sixshot to save him. Sixshot tells Daniel to take care of himself, and vanishes once more.

[[Image:HM35 Maximus unleashes power.jpg|right|200px|thumb]]
Meanwhile, Fortress Maximus and Scorponok's duel has moved, allowing Scorponok to position himself on the crysmagnetal dais. As Fortress leaps at his opponent, a glint of light in the sky heralds the arrival overhead of the energy-absorbing satellite, which discharges its energy back into the dais, completing the circuit and threatening to tear the Earth apart. With both Maximus and Scorponok caught in the beam, Scorponok disconnects from his [[transtector]], retreating to the fringes of Earth's atmosphere with the rest of the Decepticons to watch. The Headmasters attempt to power up their commander, entering [[Head Formation]] and sending their energy to him, but it is not enough, and Fortress begins to buckle. Daniel recalls Sixshot telling him about the strong bond of friendship the Autobots have, and hits upon the idea to have all the Autobots lend Maximus their strength. Wheelie calls out to the assembled Autobot forces, and they all link arms in a ring around the Headmasters—thus combined in "Final Formation", the Headmasters channel the combined energy of the entire Autobot army into Fortress Maximus. Supercharged by his troops, Fortress Maximus uses the Master Sword to redirect the energy beam back into the satellite, destroying it, much to the shock of the watching Decepticons. Then, with a single slash of his mighty blade, Fortress Maximus destroys the Zarak Shield and bisects Scorponok's transtector, which explodes into smithereens.

Time passes. With the victory at the North Pole, the Decepticon forces have finally been broken, and they withdraw from Earth, but they still pose a threat to the other planets in the universe, and it is the duty of the Autobots to pursue them and stop them. As the entirety of the Autobots forces gather to leave Earth for good, Fortress, the Headmasters and Wheelie say goodbye to Daniel, Spike and Carly. The farewell between Daniel and Wheelie is especially tearful, and the two vow to see each other again. Battleship Maximus lifts off, and Daniel cries out his goodbyes, which echo through the air as the Autobots vanish into the setting sun.

[['Til all are one]].

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
{{{!}}border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background:transparent"
{{!}}-
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] (1)
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (2)
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (3)
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress/Fortress Maximus]] (4)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (5)
* [[Pointblank]] (6)
* [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] (7)
* [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] (8)
* [[Brainstorm]] (9)
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (10)
* [[Punch (G1)|Punch]] (11)
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (12)
* [[Pointech]] (26)
* [[Spoil (Headmasters)|Spoil]] (27)
* [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] (31)
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Computron (G1)|Computron]] (32)
* [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]] (33)
* [[Shōki]] (34)
* [[Suiken]] (35)
* [[Getsuei]] (36)
* [[Seizan]] (37)
* [[Kaen]] (38)
* [[Yukikaze (Headmasters)|Yukikaze]] (39)
* [[Peaceman (Headmasters)|Peaceman]] (48)
* [[Raiden]] (49)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] (53)
* [[Rewind]] (54)
* [[Eject]] (55)
* [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]] (56)
* [[Ramhorn (G1)|Ramhorn]] (57)
{{!}}}
|c2=
{{{!}}border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background:transparent"
{{!}}-
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Sixshot]] (14)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundblaster]] (15)
* [[Apeface]] (16)
* [[Skullcruncher]] (17)
* [[Weirdwolf]] (18)
* [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] (19)
* [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] (20)
* [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] (23)
* [[Pounce]] (24)
* [[Wingspan]] (25)
* [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] (28)
* [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] (29)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (30)
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]] (40)
* [[Flywheels]] (41)
* [[Battletrap]] (42)
* [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] (43)
* [[Misfire]] (44)
* [[Triggerhappy]] (45)
* [[Predaking]] (46)
* [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] (47)
* [[Blowpipe (Headmasters)|Blowpipe]] (50)
* [[Caliburst (Headmasters)|Caliburst]] (51)
* [[Aimless (Headmasters)|Aimless]] (52)
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (58)
* [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]] (59)
{{!}}}
|c3=
* [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]] (13)
* [[Carly|Carly Witwicky]] (21)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (22)
}}

==Quotes==
{{note|The following quotes are from the [[Omni Productions]] dub.}}

"Commander, pull yourself together!"
:—'''Fortress Maximus'''

"Wahahaha! I'm going to betray you! Goodbye!" 
"Darn it! I'm going to totally destroy you along with Earth!"
:—'''Sixshot''' lays his cards on the table. '''Scorponok''' isn't impressed.

"Just look above you." 
"Above me?!" 
"HAW!"
:—'''Scorponok''' tricks '''Fortress Maximus'''.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*The map of the world viewed by the Autobots near the start is woefully off. Africa is the size of Australia and North America is almost as big as Europe and Russia. Greenland appears to neighbor Great Britain.
*As Metroplex holds Wheelie and Daniel in his hand, his head is offmodel—his antenna appear to be freestanding instead of attached to the sides, the slot on his forehead is red, and his cheek lines extend right up to his forehead.
*When Fortress Maximus lifts the Master Sword after striking, the lowest segment of the blade has orange and yellow stripes on it that it's never had before. These details actually ''are'' on the toy of the sword, but they've not appeared in the cartoon before!

===Continuity errors===
*The ''Queen World'' was a marine blue last episode, but this episode is pale purple.
*Seems there were a few crossed wires regarding the Decepticon attacks last episode. Here, the injured Carly is seen being carried off the ''Queen World'' luxury liner—except that she was hurt in a plane crash caused by the energy discharge from the Death Towers, and the ''Queen World'' ''sank'' as a direct result of a Decepticon attack. Whoops!
*Despite it seeming very much like Sixshot killed them last episode (knocking their heads off, with wires and circuits lying all over the place), Wingspan and Pounce are up and about with no ill effects here.
*As in "[[The Master Sword Is in Danger!!]]", Scorponok's smaller form is depicted as tiny compared to the other Decepticons, whereas he's usually about the same size as Sixshot.

===Transformers references===
*The Decepticons all apparently disappeared from Earth back in "[[Miraculous Warriors, Targetmasters (Part 1)]]", but we only ever saw a small number of them in the intervening episodes. This episode reveals that the characters that we have not seen since then, like Scourge, Menasor and Devastator, have been hiding in [[Lemuria (G1)|Lemuria]], preparing for Scorponok's plan.

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''The Last Battle on Earth, Part 2'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
:**The "[[Trio Formation]]" performed by the Decepticon Headmasters is inexplicably (even for the Omni dub) referred to as the "[[Buddha]] Formation".
:**Fortress mentions rebuilding [[Mars (planet)|Mars]] as one of the tasks the Autobots have ahead of them.
:**The reprise of the title sequence at the end of the episode is accompanied by complete silence, rather than the [[The Headmasters (song)|theme song]] as on the Japanese soundtrack.

:*''Title:'' "'''The Final Showdown on Earth: Part 2'''" ([[Shout! Factory]] sub)

===Trivia===
*According to ''[[Transformers Generations]]'', as noted above, this episode aired on the 28th of March. This would make it the only ''The Headmasters'' episode to air on a day other than the show's normal Friday, being screened on the following Monday, only three days after [[The Final Showdown on Earth (Part 1)|Part 1]].
*After the closing scene of the episode, but before the credits, the episode ends with the theme tune playing alongside a "clean" version of the opening sequence (devoid of on-screen text). The Decepticons do ''not'' flicker in this segment, as they have been doing in the actual opening since "[[Explosion on Mars!! Maximus Is in Danger]]", and a shot from the conclusion of Fortress Maximus's transformation sequence is added to the end of the segment.
*The [[The Headmasters issue 8|eighth and final chapter]] of the manga version of ''The Headmasters'' published in ''[[TV Magazine]]'' consist of an additional scene that fits into this episode, between the destruction of Scorponok's transtector, but before the Autobots leave Earth. In this short story, Soundblaster makes a last ditch attack against Chromedome, Spike, Carly, Daniel and Wheelie with [[Slugfest (G1)|Slugfest]] and [[Overkill (G1)|Overkill]] (who did not appear in the ''Headmasters'' anime at all), [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]] returns, having been gone since "[[Cybertron Is in Grave Danger, Part 2]]", and Sixshot plans to travel to many different planets, to learn new transformations. Comments made by Rodimus about humans and Transformers working and evolving together, Sixshot's desire to "transform" into a human, and the narratives promise that Earth will not go unguarded all seem to foreshadow the next series, ''[[Super-God Masterforce (franchise)|Super-God Masterforce]]''.
*A special prose "epilogue" published in ''TV Magazine'' filled in the gap between ''The Headmasters'' and ''Super-God Masterforce'', explaining that, after the events of this episode, the conflict shifted to a space-based war between the two sides, involving exchanges between [[Chaar]] and [[Athenia]]. The advanced technology of planet [[Master (planet)|Master]] formed the backbone of this conflict, but the destruction of the [[space bridge]] back in "[[Daniel Faces His Biggest Crisis Ever!!]]" meant that transport to and from the Earth were severely limited, hence the large role played by humans in ''Masterforce''.
* The Latin American dub for this episode is just crazy, as if the voice actors thought that nobody was watching the show anymore, since they use the opportunity to have everybody either making jokes or acting out of character, like Weirdwolf being "weird" for once (and I mean gay, no kidding!), even breaking the "fourth wall" when mentioning staff from the dubbing studio; also, the narrator changed his voice from a energetic person to an old one, of course, there WERE people seeing the show, (and still seeing it through ''Masterforce'' and ''Victory''). At least they didn't make Wheelie rhyme.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|omni}}
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1996 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2002 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' — DVD Box ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2005 — The Takara Collection Vol 1 — ''Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

{{DEFAULTSORT:Final Showdown on Earth (Part 2)}}
[[Category:The Headmasters episodes]]

Duel on the Asteroid

2012-05-11T20:37:16Z

RQ87-D2: /* Quotes */

{{episode|headmasters|33|
|image=Duelasteroid.jpg
|caption=Why does the asteroid look like a Brussels sprout?
|title=Duel on the Asteroid
|japanese=アステロイドの決闘
|romaji=Asteroid no Kettō
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[March 25|25 March]] 1988
|writer=[[Toyohiro Ando]]
|director=[[Akinori Ōrai]]
|animation studio=Toei
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}

'''Chromedome and Sixshot's rivalry explodes when the ninja challenges the Headmaster to a one-on-one duel in the asteroid belt.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:HM33 Sixshot returns.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Stop doing silly impressions and get down here!]]
With the [[Autobot]]s aboard [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Battleship Maximus]] still hot on the tail of [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] and the [[Decepticon]]s on the return trip to [[Earth]], a report comes in from the [[Targetmaster]]s that the villains are now progressing slowly through the asteroid belt within the [[Solar System]]. [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] calculates that they will now be able to catch up to the Decepticons before they reach Earth—something that becomes even more likely when the Decepticons are forced to set down on the asteroid [[Pallas]] in order to perform maintenance on their propulsion system. While conducting the repair work, the Decepticon [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] speculate on whether or not [[Sixshot]] will return, but any debate is put to rest when the ninja suddenly appears, streaking through space and landing in front of them. He meets with Scorponok, well aware that he was deliberately abandoned by the schemer, but is treated to a string of platitudes praising his abilities and indispensability, as Scorponok claims he always knew Sixshot could survive on his own.

[[Image:HM33 Sixshot challenges Chromedome.jpg|thumb|right|200px|"Sir, I shall thrash you soundly!" "Just you try, you bounder!"]]
Meanwhile, Battleship Maximus has arrived at the asteroid belt and receives information regarding Scorponok's location from the Targetmasters; however, even as they communicate this, they come under attack from the Decepticons, and the Autobot Headmasters head out with the [[Trainbot]]s to rescue them. As the inevitable battle ensues, Scorponok charges Sixshot with taking the Headmasters out of the fight. Sixshot proposes challenging [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] to a duel on the asteroid [[Juno]], taking him out in a one-on-one battle to cripple the unit. Sixshot enters the battle, and issues his challenge to Chromedome, who accepts. Scorponok, however, has a plan within this plan, and gives the [[Duocon]]s a bomb to plant on Juno...

[[Image:HM33 Daniel pleads with Chromedome.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
Elsewhere, Battleship Maximus has landed on the asteroid [[Ceres]], where [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] forbids Chromedome from duelling Sixshot on pain of expulsion from the Autobot ranks. Chromedome is determined to settle his long-standing score with Sixshot, and as he and Fortress argue, [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] happens to overhear, and tells [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] about the duel. [[My Friend Sixshot!|His experience with Sixshot]] fresh in his mind, Daniel does not want to see two beings that he calls friends fight, and both he and the other Headmasters attempt to talk Chromedome out of the duel. Chromedome, however, is insistent—he would rather face the dishonor of expulsion than be thought of as a coward for turning down a challenge. [[Pointblank]] later approaches Chromedome on the issue, but upon hearing Chromedome's determination, he relents, and recounts a time when he once did something very similar, only to be reprimanded by [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]. Telling Chromedome that it is his decision, Pointblank gives him his blessing, and Chromedome departs for the battle. Pointblank and the Headmasters watch him go, but are suddenly called inside by Fortress when Scorponok blasts off, using the duel as a distraction to head for Earth at full speed. When Wheelie discovers that Daniel has left the ship in his [[exosuit]] in order to try and stop the duel, Pointblank heads out to find him so that Battleship Maximus can focus on following the Decepticons.

[[Image:HM33 Daniel shields Chromedome from Sixshot.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
On Juno, Chromedome is ready and waiting when Sixshot appears with a rush of wind and a flash of light. The duel begins immediately, and it is not long before Daniel appears in the sky overhead, pleading for them to stop. Daniel throws himself between the two combatants, but Sixshot denies any friendship between himself and the boy. Daniel challenges Sixshot to simply shoot him, but Sixshot is not able to bring himself to pull the trigger... at least, not before Scorponok's bomb detonates, and begins to tear Juno apart. Sixshot calls off the duel in the name of saving Daniel, allowing Chromedome to escape with the boy, but Scorponok is watching from afar, and triggers further explosions. Daniel almost falls down a crevasse that opens beneath his feet, but Sixshot saves him, and is then caught in a jet of flame that erupts from beneath the ground. As Chromedome and Daniel watch, Juno is completely consumed in a fireball, leaving no trace of Sixshot.

Returning to Battleship Maximus with Pointblank, Chromedome is happily accepted back into the Autobots. The mood is good, but Daniel can't help but wonder what has become of Sixshot; Chromedome assures Daniel that the ninja is not that easy to get rid of, cheering Daniel up. And now, Maximus draws near to Earth, and the final battle is about to begin...!

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] (1)
*[[Pointblank]] (2)
*[[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (3)
*[[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (4)
*[[Brainstorm]] (5)
*[[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (6)
*[[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (7)
*[[Peaceman (Headmasters)|Peaceman]] (15)
*[[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] (16)
*[[Pointech]] (17)
*[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] (18)
*[[Spoil (Headmasters)|Spoil]] (19)
*[[Shōki]] (23)
*[[Suiken]] (24)
*[[Getsuei]] (25)
*[[Seizan]] (26)
*[[Kaen]] (27)
*[[Yukikaze (Headmasters)|Yukikaze]] (28)
*[[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (33)

|c2=
*[[Sixshot]] (9)
*[[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] (10)
*[[Soundwave (G1)|Soundblaster]] (11)
*[[Skullcruncher]] (12)
*[[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] (13)
*[[Weirdwolf]] (14)
*[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] (20)
*[[Misfire]] (21)
*[[Triggerhappy]] (22)
*[[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] (29)
*[[Apeface]] (30)
*[[Flywheels]] (31)
*[[Battletrap]] (32)

|c3=
*[[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]] (8)
}}
==Quotes==
{{note|The following quotes are from the [[Omni Productions]] dub.}}
"Chromedome, you're not bad. I would like to have a duel with you." 
"Anytime, my friend!" 
"Tomorrow at dawn, come to planet Jolo."
:—'''Sixshot''' and '''Chromedome'''

"Danny?" 
"Uncle Sixshot! We're friends, aren't we? Please don't fight!" 
"Get away. You and I are not friends, little boy."
:—'''Sixshot''' and '''Daniel'''

"Stop, you evil man!"
:—'''Chromedome''' as the bombs start exploding.

"So you traitor, you wanna betray me do you?"
:—'''Zarak''' is very smart.

"Uncle Sixshot! UNCLE SIXSHOOOOOOOOT!"
:—'''Daniel''' after the asteroid explodes.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*During the first bridge shot of Fortress Maximus, Brainstorm's chest and wings are blue instead of black.
*As Scorponok watches a remote feed of the explosions on Juno, the whole screen shakes, including Scorponok and the monitor itself.

===Continuity errors===
*[[Mars (planet)|Mars]] still exists on the diagram of the solar system the narrator uses to show the location of the [[asteroid belt]]. Mars was destroyed in "[[Explosion on Mars!! MegaZarak Appears]]".

===Continuity notes===
*This episode brings to a head Chromedome's vendetta against Sixshot, a product of the ninja's involvement in the deaths of [[Abel]] (in "[[Terror! The Six Shadows]]"), [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (in "[[Ultra Magnus Dies!!]]") and [[Jack (Headmasters)|Jack]] (in "[[Miraculous Warriors, Targetmasters (Part 2)]]").
*Daniel and Sixshot's unusual friendship began in the previous episode.
*Daniel's exo-suit transforms into vehicle mode, as previously seen for the first and only time in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.

===Real-world references===
*Pallas, Ceres and Juno are all real-life celestial bodies in the asteroid belt. At the time of production on ''The Headmasters'', Ceres was officially classified as an asteroid, and is referred to as such in this episode—but it's set in 2011, and as of 2006, Ceres was reclassified as a dwarf planet.

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''The Plot for the Final Battle'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
:**Juno is identified as [[Chaar]] (or more accurately, as "Jollo", the dub's name for Chaar).
:**Chromedome claims Sixshot killed his family.

:*''Title:'' "'''Duel on the Asteroid'''" ([[Shout! Factory]] sub)
:**The almost 2-minute segment before the title card is excised.

===Trivia===
*This episode is unique among ''The Headmasters'' for having its title super-imposed over the actual continuing animation of the episode, rather than receiving its own isolated segment with a clip from the episode re-used as a background.
*This episode originally aired in a double-bill with "[[The Final Showdown on Earth (Part 1)]]" on March 25.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|omni}}
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1996 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2002 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' — DVD Box ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2005 — The Takara Collection Vol 1 — ''Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

[[Category:The Headmasters episodes]]

Operation: Destroy the Decepticons

2012-05-10T19:28:27Z

RQ87-D2: /* Quotes */

{{episode|
|series=headmasters
|ep=31
|title="Operation: Destroy the Decepticons"
|japanese=デストロン全滅作戦
|romaji=Destron Zenmetsu Sakusen
|translation=
|image=Opdestroycons.jpg
|caption=You'll believe a giant robotic scorpion can fly.
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Katsutoshi Sasaki]]
|animation studio=Toei
|airdate=[[March_11|11 March]] 1988
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}

'''The Autobot Headmasters team up with the young warriors of planet Master for an attack on the Decepticons, but when things go wrong, the Master Sword and the Zarak Shield finally meet in combat!'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:HM31 endless meetings.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
As [[Raiden]] and [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]] repair the damage to Battleship Maximus caused by [[Weirdwolf]]'s bombs, [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] and the [[Autobot]]s discuss strategies while [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] and [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] take out their frustrations on video games. Fortress fears that [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] is going to make a fresh attempt at blowing up the [[Earth]] for its [[plasma energy]], and the [[Targetmaster]]s advocate a divide and conquer tactic, separating the [[Decepticon]]s and luring them into space to pick them off, thereby isolating Scorponok. [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] opposes the plan, fearing that the expanse of space is too vast a battleground, and the chance of the enemy escaping is too great. The Targetmasters dismiss his reservations and depart on a scouting mission; Chromedome is not best pleased about this, nor about the fact that Fortress also agrees with their plan because of the low risk to planet [[Master (planet)|Master]] itself.

A short time later, Chromedome leads his fellow [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]]s on a winding path through a mountainous region—his three companions all agree that the Targetmasters shouldn't be allowed to boss them around, and Chromedome is leading them to the staging ground of a plan of his own. The team arrives at an abandoned mine, which, it is revealed, is being used as a staging base by [[Autobot Master Warrior|a group of young warriors-in-training]] to organize a strike against the Decepticons. They are greeted by the leader, [[Kirk]], and begin planning a strategy with him.

[[Image:HM31 Chromedome outlines plan.jpg|thumb|right|200px|"...and I'll draw some horsies here..."]]
Meanwhile, [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundblaster]], his cassettes and the Decepticon Targetmaster partners are patrolling the area around the Decepticons' new base of operations, hidden within a mountain. They spot the approaching Autobot Targetmasters and alert the base—[[Sixshot]] and the Decepticon Headmasters and Targetmasters attack the three Autobots en masse, and succeeding surrounding them.

Back at the mine, Chromedome presents his strategy to an uneasy [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]]—to lure the Decepticons into the confines of a cloudy mountain range nearby, thereby trapping them and leaving them open to attack. Just then, [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] and [[Brainstorm]] enter with a report from an aerial scout craft, revealing the Autobot Targetmasters' predicament. The location of this conflict allows the Chromedome to deduce the location of the Decepticon base and put the final touches to his plan, although he is left to wonder where on the map the Decepticons will make their appearance when they exit their base. At the same moment, that same scout craft distracts the attention of the Decepticon Headmasters, giving the Targetmasters the opening they need to break through the enemy barrage and escape. Returning to Battleship Maximus, they come across a battery of guns manned by young Master warriors, and suspect Chromedome's hand in their mobilization.

[[Image:HM31 Decepticons under attack.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
Back at the Decepticon base, Soundblaster reports his discovery of the alliance of the Autobot Headmasters and the Master warriors, just Scorponok announces his plan to strike at the centre of the nearby city. Just as the Targetmasters report their discovery to Fortress, prompting him to telepathically contact Chromedome to determine the truth of the matter, the Decepticons make their move—Scorponok emerges from beneath the city itself, appearing in its very heart, throwing everything into chaos as the Autobots and Master warriors are caught off-guard by this unexpected tactic. As the Targetmasters gun down civilians, the two groups of Headmasters meet in battle, which tips in favor of the Autobots when [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] accidentally afflicts [[Skullcruncher]] with his hypnosis. Just then, a fleet of ships piloted by the Master warriors appear in the sky and bombard Scorponok and the Decepticons with firepower—even the multiplying powers of Sixshot are no match for the combined might of the warriors and Headmasters, and Scorponok is unable to spare the energy to transform to robot mode.

[[Image:Hm31 fortmax defeated.jpg|thumb|right|200px|This could have gone better.]]
Battleship Maximus, meanwhile, is approaching the city, and arrives just as the warriors manage to successfully force the Decepticons into the midst of the cloudy mountain peaks. However, Chromedome has failed to account for one major flaw in his plan, which the Decepticons immediately exploit—by using the clouds to ''conceal'' themselves! Striking from hidden positions beneath the clouds, the Decepticons down the vast majority of the ships, including Kirk's, and Fortress convinces Chromedome to call retreat. Scorponok orders the Decepticons to pull out and make for Earth, but Fortress has other plans—transforming to Fortress Maximus, he bars their way. But this is the chance Scorponok has been waiting for, as he too assumes his robot mode, and [[Master Sword]] meets [[Zarak Shield]] in a mighty clash... and the Zarak Shield emerges triumphant!

With Fortress Maximus downed and the Decepticons on their way to Earth, Chromedome moves to follow them, but Pointblank stops him and forces him to realize the damage and loss of life his strategy has caused. Kirk stumbles from the wreckage of his craft, and Chromedome apologises for putting his life in danger; Kirk says that he is equally to blame, as he was well aware of what he was getting himself into. The two friends shake hands, and soon after, Battleship Maximus heads back into space, hot on the trail of the Decepticons.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Raiden]] (1)
*[[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]] (2)
*[[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] (3)
*[[Brainstorm]] (4)
*[[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (5)
*[[Pointech]] (6)
*[[Peaceman (Headmasters)|Peaceman]] (7)
*[[Spoil (Headmasters)|Spoil]] (8)
*[[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (9)
*[[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] (10)
*[[Pointblank]] (11)
*[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] (12)
*[[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (13)
*[[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (14)
*[[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (18)
*[[Rodney]]? (20)
*[[Loafer]]? (21)
*[[Kirk]] (22)
*[[Toraizer]]? (36)

|c2=
*[[Misfire]] (15)
*[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] (16)
*[[Triggerhappy]] (17)
*[[Soundwave (G1)|Soundblaster]] (23)
*[[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] (24)
*[[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (25)
*[[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (26)
*[[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (27)
*[[Caliburst (Headmasters)|Caliburst]] (28)
*[[Blowpipe (Headmasters)|Blowpipe]] (29)
*[[Aimless (Headmasters)|Aimless]] (30)
*[[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] (31)
*[[Sixshot]] (32)
*[[Weirdwolf]] (33)
*[[Skullcruncher]] (34)
*[[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] (35)
*[[Battletrap]] (37)
*[[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]] (38)

|c3=
*[[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]] (19)
}}

==Quotes==
{{note|The following quotes are from the [[Omni Productions]] dub.}}
"There's some highly explosive weapons here." 
"Do you think the warriors of planet Julian will come to attack here?"
:—'''Pointblank''' and '''Sureshot''', the latter of whom appears to be making up new planets.

"Hrh, this is the wrong time! We always get the difficult ones. If only I could enlarge myself. I can't—I can't waste any more power."
:—'''Scorponok'''

"You're not dead...that's great."
:—'''Chromedome''' sure sounds glad '''Kirk''' is still alive.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*Defensor's left arm ([[First Aid (G1)|First Aid]]) should have the word "EMERGENCY" written on the side of it. Instead the bottom half has "TCMEGRIE". Close enough?
*Throughout this episode, several robots appear based on the animation models of the [[Autobot Master Warrior]]s. The only referred to by name is Kirk, but his color scheme is ''nothing'' like his actual toy, leaving it unclear whether or not any of the generic, unnamed robots are intended to be the actual characters, afflicted with a similar case of color-blindness. See the characters' own articles for details.
*After the Targetmasters are discovered by the Decepticons and begin charging up the side of the mountain, Sureshot's red parts are colored purple.
*As Soundblaster reports that the Autobot Headmasters are working with the Autobot Master Warriors, he's drawn as Soundwave, but with his Soundblaster color scheme.

===Continuity notes===
*Battleship Maximus was damaged in the previous episode.
*Scorponok has been working on the Zarak Shield since "[[The Master Sword Is in Danger!!]]".
*Daniel is using his [[Challenge Blaster]] (which originally introduced in "[[Find MegaZarak's Weak Spot!!]]") again in this episode—it's back to just being a toy now, after being upgraded into a real pistol by Highbrow in "The Master Sword is in Danger!!"
*Skullcruncher has previously been accidentally hypnotised by Mindwipe in both "[[Four Warriors Come out of the Sky]]" and "[[Explosion on Mars!! Maximus Is in Danger]]".

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''The Full-Scale Assault'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

:*''Title:'' "'''Operation: Destroy the Decepticons'''" ([[Shout! Factory]] sub)
::*The review of the last episode shown before the title card is omitted.

===Trivia===
[[Image:Fortress using telepathy.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
*"[[Tate! Ikari no Headmasters]]" plays once more as Fortress Maximus and Scorponok battle. This time, however, the Malaysian dub does ''not'' cut the song out.
*Fortress, in his giant head alternate mode, is totally seen using a giant-sized version of Professor X's Cerebro to communicate with Chromedome telepathically.
*Japanese puns are never easy to translate to English. When Chromedome meets up with Kirk and the other Headmasters ask who the others are, Chromedome answers "They're our comrades" using ''dōshi'', as in 同士 or 同志 for "comrade" (although 同士 would be more appropriate). Highbrow repeats "Dōshi?", to which Hardhead supplies "Dōshi... yō", as in どうしよう for "what to do". Chromedome then admonishes them that it's no time for puns. Easier said than done.
*When discussing the Decepticons' hiding spot, Kirk notes 灯台下暗し (''tōdai moto kurashi''), meaning "can't see the forest for the trees".

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|omni}}
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1996 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2002 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' — DVD Box ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2005 — The Takara Collection Vol 1 — ''Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

[[Category:The Headmasters episodes]]

The Master Sword Is in Danger!!

2012-05-07T18:30:59Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Headmasters
|ep=29
|image=Dangersword.jpg
|caption=Grant me the power to revolutionize the world!
|title="The Master Sword Is in Danger!!"
|japanese=危うしマスターソード!!
|romaji=Ayaushi Master Sword!!
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[February 26|26 February]] 1988
|writer=[[Toyohiro Ando]]
|director=[[Nobuō Shirahata]]
|animation studio=Toei
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''It's Chromedome and Daniel to the rescue when the Decepticons kidnap Wheelie and ransom him in exchange for the secrets of the Master Sword. But are the Autobots ready for... the Duocons?!'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:Gmetal.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
The [[Decepticon]]s have vanished after their previous defeat, and with a search turning up nothing, the Autobot [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] speculate that they may have left the planet. However, [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] and [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] are sure that they are still on [[Master (planet)|Master]], as it is the only planet that can provide them with the materials used in the construction of Battleship Maximus, that they might create a weapon of equal power. [[Pointblank]] compliments Highbrow's sharp mind... before trashing his combat ability.

Deep beneath the surface of planet Master, [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] is holed up in a massive cavern, where the Decepticons have assembled a large amount of machinery to process ore. By luck, after escaping underground at the end of the previous battle, they have discovered the minerals necessary to create the powerful alloy [[G-Metal]]. Even so, shields forged from his metal will still not be strong enough to stand up to the Master Sword, and Scorponok put into motion a plan to learn the secrets of the sword.

[[Image:HM29 Daniel laughs at Wheelie.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
On Battleship Maximus, [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] is playing video games when [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] puts forth his latest idea—now that they are on planet Master, he will undergo the rigorous Headmaster training process, and become a Headmaster himself! Daniel is insulted when Wheelie points out that he'll always be better than him because he's a Transformer, and Daniel goes to bed in a huff. When Daniel rises early the next morning to do his chores, Wheelie is nowhere to be found, but Daniel is not concerned. In truth, Wheelie has simply decided to start his training with a run, but while out in the desert, the ground gives way beneath the young robot's feet...

[[Image:HM29 Wheelie captured.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
A short time later, concern over Wheelie's absence is mounting aboard Battleship Maximus, with Daniel's indifference having vanished. As the Autobots meet to search for him, however, a transmission is received from [[Sixshot]], who reveals that he has captured Wheelie and will drop him in acid if Fortress does not provide all the data on the Master Sword within three hours. While Pointblank advocates rejecting the demand, writing Wheelie off as a necessary sacrifice of war, Fortress is undecided. Daniel attempts to rescue Wheelie on his own, and Chromedome agrees to help him; Highbrow finds them before they leave, but allows them to go, upgrading Daniel's video game gun into a genuine blaster just in case. They depart hidden aboard the [[Trainbot]]s, with Highbrow covering for them by saying that the Trainbots are just going on reconnaissance, just as Fortress announces that he will give in to the Decepticons' demands. Highbrow is then forced to admit that Chromedome and Daniel have gone to rescue Wheelie.

[[Image:MasterSwordDanger Floppydisk.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"Optimus Prime is dead again, Sixshot. You know any 21st century computers that can still read 3 1/2's?"]]
Chromedome and Daniel, meanwhile, have successfully evaded the [[Horrorcon|Horrorcons]] and entered Scorponok, where Daniel is able to use his small size to sneak under infra-red alarm beams and turn them off. Chromedome uses his telepathic powers to pick up Wheelie's brainwaves, and they discover the room in which he is being held—only Daniel can pass through the door's anti-Transformer sensor, and after deactivating it, he and Chromedome free Wheelie. Concurrently, Battleship Maximus sets down outside, and Fortress is about to hand a disk containing the Master Sword data over to Sixshot when Chromedome bursts out, revealing that Wheelie has been freed. With all bets off, the Headmasters and [[Targetmaster|Targetmasters]] of both sides emerge for a firefight, during which Scorponok orders his two newest warriors in battle—the [[Duocon]]s! In the midst of the confusion that these two fast-moving, rapid-firing warriors create, the disk is blasted from Fortress's hands, and is grabbed and passed like a football across the battlefield from faction to faction, until [[Battletrap]] finally seizes it, and the Decepticons pull out with the secrets of the Master Sword in their hands.

Aboard Battleship Maximus, Pointblank apologises for allowing the disk to fall into enemy hands. Meanwhile, Chromedome, Daniel and Wheelie are being reprimanded for leaving the ship without permission by being made to scrub it from stem to stern. Chromedome is particularly irate, running up and down the halls with a mop, but the other Headmasters placate him by praising him for saving Wheelie's life.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (1)
* [[Pointblank]] (2)
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (3)
* [[Brainstorm]] (4)
* [[Shōki]] (5)
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (6)
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress/Fortress Maximus]] (7)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] (8)
* [[Peaceman (Headmasters)|Peaceman]] (9)
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (14)
* [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] (17)
* [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] (18)
* [[Suiken]] (19)
* [[Getsuei]] (20)
* [[Seizan]] (21)
* [[Kaen]] (22)
* [[Yukikaze (Headmasters)|Yukikaze]] (23)
* [[Pointech]] (32)
* [[Spoil (Headmasters)|Spoil]] (33)

|c2=
* [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] (10)
* [[Weirdwolf]] (11)
* [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] (12)
* [[Skullcruncher]] (13)
* [[Sixshot]] (16)
* [[Apeface]] (24)
* [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] (25)
* [[Misfire]] (26)
* [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] (27)
* [[Triggerhappy]] (28)
* [[Aimless (Headmasters)|Aimless]] (29)
* [[Caliburst (Headmasters)|Caliburst]] (30)
* [[Blowpipe (Headmasters)|Blowpipe]] (31)
* [[Battletrap]] (34)
* [[Flywheels]] (35)

|c3=
* [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]] (15)
}}

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*In the scene where Wheelie is contemplating becoming a Headmaster, when he stands up, he's only slightly taller than Daniel.
*When Sureshot and Crosshairs fire on the Duocons, their shots are Decepticon-purple instead of Autobot-orange.
*Likewise, when the Duocons return fire on the Autobot Targetmasters, their blasts are orange, instead of purple.
*When Chromedome runs towards the other Autobot Headmasters with a mop, his legs are the same color as his arms. As he runs past them, they change to the correct brown color.

===Continuity errors===
*Scorponok (himself, not his transtector) is small in this episode—the size of the other Headmasters' heads. Normally Scorponok is about the size of an average Transformer.
*Superhuman humans:
**Daniel is able to execute a jump of at least 8 feet up, landing through Chromedome's roof.
*Why don't the Horrorcons raise the alarm after Chromedome blazes past them into the Decepticon base?
*The Duocon's names are switched when they appear.

===Transformers references===
*Daniel's video game light gun first appeared in "[[Find MegaZarak's Weak Spot!!]]" Highbrow previously gave it an upgrade similar to the one seen in this episode, turning it into an actual weapon, in "[[Mystery of the Space Pirate Ship]]".

===Real-world references===
*After Daniel covers himself with a blanket, part of Wheelie's posing is taken from the transformation pose of the title character of ''[[Wikipedia:Kamen Rider|Kamen Rider]]'', another show produced by Toei.

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Crisis on Planet Master'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
:**Before this episode, the Malaysian dub titles were at least derived from the actual Japanese titles, iffily translated in some way (with the [[The Great Cassette Operation|odd exception]]). However, from this episode through until the final two-parter, they abandon all pretense of even ''trying'' to translate the Japanese titles, and just slap random (if not inappropriate) titles on 'em.
:**The dub gets the Duocons' names around the right way.

:*''Title:'' "'''The Secret of the Master Sword Is in Danger'''" ([[Shout! Factory]] sub), "'''The Master Sword Is in Danger'''" (Shout! Factory menu)
:**Weirdwolf bizarrely says "Scorponok's Transtector"... when speaking to Scorponok himself.
:**As a team name, "Two-In-One" is appropriately translated as "Duocons". However, when Battletrap and Flywheels use it as a transformation call, it is left untranslated.

===Trivia===
*Wheelie tells Daniel he can't become a Headmaster, but Wheelie himself can because he is a Transformer. Actually, humans will become [[Headmaster Junior]]s in [[Transformers: Super-God Masterforce (cartoon)|the near future]].
*Hey, it's the Duocons in their animated series debut! Where they actually ''come from'', however... is never explained.
*The insert song "[[Destron Sanka]]" is used for the second time in the series as the Duocons enter the fray.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|omni}}
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1996 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2002 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' — DVD Box ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2005 — The Takara Collection Vol 1 — ''Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

{{DEFAULTSORT:Master Sword Is in Danger!!}}
[[Category:The Headmasters episodes]]

The Master Sword Is in Danger!!

2012-05-07T18:19:40Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Headmasters
|ep=29
|image=Dangersword.jpg
|caption=Grant me the power to revolutionize the world!
|title="The Master Sword Is in Danger!!"
|japanese=危うしマスターソード!!
|romaji=Ayaushi Master Sword!!
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[February 26|26 February]] 1988
|writer=[[Toyohiro Ando]]
|director=[[Nobuō Shirahata]]
|animation studio=Toei
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''It's Chromedome and Daniel to the rescue when the Decepticons kidnap Wheelie and ransom him in exchange for the secrets of the Master Sword. But are the Autobots ready for... the Duocons?!'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:Gmetal.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
The [[Decepticon]]s have vanished after their previous defeat, and with a search turning up nothing, the Autobot [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] speculate that they may have left the planet. However, [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] and [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] are sure that they are still on [[Master (planet)|Master]], as it is the only planet that can provide them with the materials used in the construction of Battleship Maximus, that they might create a weapon of equal power. [[Pointblank]] compliments Highbrow's sharp mind... before trashing his combat ability.

Deep beneath the surface of planet Master, [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] is holed up in a massive cavern, where the Decepticons have assembled a large amount of machinery to process ore. By luck, after escaping underground at the end of the previous battle, they have discovered the minerals necessary to create the powerful alloy [[G-Metal]]. Even so, shields forged from his metal will still not be strong enough to stand up to the Master Sword, and Scorponok put into motion a plan to learn the secrets of the sword.

[[Image:HM29 Daniel laughs at Wheelie.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
On Battleship Maximus, [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] is playing video games when [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] puts forth his latest idea—now that they are on planet Master, he will undergo the rigorous Headmaster training process, and become a Headmaster himself! Daniel is insulted when Wheelie points out that he'll always be better than him because he's a Transformer, and Daniel goes to bed in a huff. When Daniel rises early the next morning to do his chores, Wheelie is nowhere to be found, but Daniel is not concerned. In truth, Wheelie has simply decided to start his training with a run, but while out in the desert, the ground gives way beneath the young robot's feet...

[[Image:HM29 Wheelie captured.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
A short time later, concern over Wheelie's absence is mounting aboard Battleship Maximus, with Daniel's indifference having vanished. As the Autobots meet to search for him, however, a transmission is received from [[Sixshot]], who reveals that he has captured Wheelie and will drop him in acid if Fortress does not provide all the data on the Master Sword within three hours. While Pointblank advocates rejecting the demand, writing Wheelie off as a necessary sacrifice of war, Fortress is undecided. Daniel attempts to rescue Wheelie on his own, and Chromedome agrees to help him; Highbrow finds them before they leave, but allows them to go, upgrading Daniel's video game gun into a genuine blaster just in case. They depart hidden aboard the [[Trainbot]]s, with Highbrow covering for them by saying that the Trainbots are just going on reconnaissance, just as Fortress announces that he will give in to the Decepticons' demands. Highbrow is then forced to admit that Chromedome and Daniel have gone to rescue Wheelie.

[[Image:MasterSwordDanger Floppydisk.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"Optimus Prime is dead again, Sixshot. You know any 21st century computers that can still read 3 1/2's?"]]
Chromedome and Daniel, meanwhile, have successfully evaded the [[Horrorcon|Horrorcons]] and entered Scorponok, where Daniel is able to use his small size to sneak under infra-red alarm beams and turn them off. Chromedome uses his telepathic powers to pick up Wheelie's brainwaves, and they discover the room in which he is being held—only Daniel can pass through the door's anti-Transformer sensor, and after deactivating it, he and Chromedome free Wheelie. Concurrently, Battleship Maximus sets down outside, and Fortress is about to hand a disk containing the Master Sword data over to Sixshot when Chromedome bursts out, revealing that Wheelie has been freed. With all bets off, the Headmasters and [[Targetmaster|Targetmasters]] of both sides emerge for a firefight, during which Scorponok orders his two newest warriors in battle—the [[Duocon]]s! In the midst of the confusion that these two fast-moving, rapid-firing warriors create, the disk is blasted from Fortress's hands, and is grabbed and passed like a football across the battlefield from faction to faction, until [[Battletrap]] finally seizes it, and the Decepticons pull out with the secrets of the Master Sword in their hands.

Aboard Battleship Maximus, Pointblank apologises for allowing the disk to fall into enemy hands. Meanwhile, Chromedome, Daniel and Wheelie are being reprimanded for leaving the ship without permission by being made to scrub it from stem to stern. Chromedome is particularly irate, running up and down the halls with a mop, but the other Headmasters placate him by praising him for saving Wheelie's life.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (1)
* [[Pointblank]] (2)
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (3)
* [[Brainstorm]] (4)
* [[Shōki]] (5)
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (6)
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress/Fortress Maximus]] (7)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] (8)
* [[Peaceman (Headmasters)|Peaceman]] (9)
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (14)
* [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] (17)
* [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] (18)
* [[Suiken]] (19)
* [[Getsuei]] (20)
* [[Seizan]] (21)
* [[Kaen]] (22)
* [[Yukikaze (Headmasters)|Yukikaze]] (23)
* [[Pointech]] (32)
* [[Spoil (Headmasters)|Spoil]] (33)

|c2=
* [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] (10)
* [[Weirdwolf]] (11)
* [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] (12)
* [[Skullcruncher]] (13)
* [[Sixshot]] (16)
* [[Apeface]] (24)
* [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] (25)
* [[Misfire]] (26)
* [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] (27)
* [[Triggerhappy]] (28)
* [[Aimless (Headmasters)|Aimless]] (29)
* [[Caliburst (Headmasters)|Caliburst]] (30)
* [[Blowpipe (Headmasters)|Blowpipe]] (31)
* [[Battletrap]] (34)
* [[Flywheels]] (35)

|c3=
* [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]] (15)
}}

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*In the scene where Wheelie is contemplating becoming a Headmaster, when he stands up, he's only slightly taller than Daniel.
*When Sureshot and Crosshairs fire on the Duocons, their shots are Decepticon-purple instead of Autobot-orange.
*Likewise, when the Duocons return fire on the Autobot Targetmasters, their blasts are orange, instead of purple.

===Continuity errors===
*Scorponok (himself, not his transtector) is small in this episode—the size of the other Headmasters' heads. Normally Scorponok is about the size of an average Transformer.
*Superhuman humans:
**Daniel is able to execute a jump of at least 8 feet up, landing through Chromedome's roof.
*Why don't the Horrorcons raise the alarm after Chromedome blazes past them into the Decepticon base?
*The Duocon's names are switched when they appear.

===Transformers references===
*Daniel's video game light gun first appeared in "[[Find MegaZarak's Weak Spot!!]]" Highbrow previously gave it an upgrade similar to the one seen in this episode, turning it into an actual weapon, in "[[Mystery of the Space Pirate Ship]]".

===Real-world references===
*After Daniel covers himself with a blanket, part of Wheelie's posing is taken from the transformation pose of the title character of ''[[Wikipedia:Kamen Rider|Kamen Rider]]'', another show produced by Toei.

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Crisis on Planet Master'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
:**Before this episode, the Malaysian dub titles were at least derived from the actual Japanese titles, iffily translated in some way (with the [[The Great Cassette Operation|odd exception]]). However, from this episode through until the final two-parter, they abandon all pretense of even ''trying'' to translate the Japanese titles, and just slap random (if not inappropriate) titles on 'em.
:**The dub gets the Duocons' names around the right way.

:*''Title:'' "'''The Secret of the Master Sword Is in Danger'''" ([[Shout! Factory]] sub), "'''The Master Sword Is in Danger'''" (Shout! Factory menu)
:**Weirdwolf bizarrely says "Scorponok's Transtector"... when speaking to Scorponok himself.
:**As a team name, "Two-In-One" is appropriately translated as "Duocons". However, when Battletrap and Flywheels use it as a transformation call, it is left untranslated.

===Trivia===
*Wheelie tells Daniel he can't become a Headmaster, but Wheelie himself can because he is a Transformer. Actually, humans will become [[Headmaster Junior]]s in [[Transformers: Super-God Masterforce (cartoon)|the near future]].
*Hey, it's the Duocons in their animated series debut! Where they actually ''come from'', however... is never explained.
*The insert song "[[Destron Sanka]]" is used for the second time in the series as the Duocons enter the fray.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|omni}}
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1996 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2002 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' — DVD Box ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2005 — The Takara Collection Vol 1 — ''Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

{{DEFAULTSORT:Master Sword Is in Danger!!}}
[[Category:The Headmasters episodes]]

File:HM28 Double Chromedome.jpg

2012-05-06T09:21:27Z

RQ87-D2:

{{HMcap|Chromedome stands next to Jack and another Chromedome.
Screen capture from the Transformers: The Headmasters cartoon episode |Miraculous Warriors, Targetmasters (Part 2)|}}

Miraculous Warriors, Targetmasters (Part 2)

2012-05-06T09:16:53Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Headmasters
|ep=28
|image=Miraclewarriors2.jpg
|caption=Goooooooooo, Wildcats!
|title="Miraculous Warriors, Targetmasters (Part 2)"
|japanese=奇跡の戦士ターゲットマスター (後編)
|romaji=Kiseki no Senshi Targetmasters (Kōhen)
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[February 19|19 February]] 1988
|writer=[[Toyohiro Ando]]
|director=[[Takao Yoshizawa]]
|animation studio=Toei
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''The birth of the Targetmasters heralds another heartbreaking loss for Chromedome when the Autobots pursue the Decepticons back to planet Master.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:HM28 Sureshot and Crosshairs with guns.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
As the light from the [[plasma energy]] explosion dims, the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] recover the unconscious bodies of [[Pointblank]], [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] and [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] and pull them back into the damaged Battleship Maximus. There, they discover that three of the refugees from planet [[Master (planet)|Master]] have been fused to their arms by the plasma energy in a weaponized form, and they return to Earth to surgically remove them. Although they are physically separated, each pair remains linked, with Pointblank and co. now able to telepathically understand the Master language. [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] dubs them "Targetmasters", and then begins preparations to head for Master to stop the [[Decepticon]] attacks there. [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] petitions his father to be allowed to accompany the Autobots on their mission, and he is given permission.

Meanwhile, on Master, the [[Horrorcon|Horrorcons]], [[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]], [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] and Decepticon [[Clone (subgroup)|Clones]] are attacking an installation, and coming under heavy return fire. At the same time, [[Sixshot]] informs [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] that Battleship Maximus will soon be on its way after undergoing repairs, but Scorponok is not concerned—[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], [[Triggerhappy]] and [[Misfire]] have also become Targetmasters!

[[Image:HM28 Jack emerges from rubble.jpg|thumb|right|200px|We've got to stop making our buildings out of stone.]]
In time, Battleship Maximus blasts off for Master, with Chromedome speculating on the reason for Scorponok's sudden shift of attention to the planet. Pointblank assures Daniel and [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] that their battle-hardened strength and new Targetmaster partners will win the fight, and takes the time to throw another jab in the direction of the Headmasters, accusing them of short tempers and a lack of experience. The Headmasters brush off the insults and stalk away, but once alone, grumble about the Targetmasters' arrogance, prompting concern from Daniel and Wheelie about the bad atmosphere on the battleship.

Back on Master, the Decepticon Targetmasters enter the ongoing battle, shooting out the weapons holding the other Decepticon back and allowing the Decepticon Headmasters to attack directly. At that moment, Battleship Maximus appears and the Autobot Headmasters and Targetmasters leap into the fray, beating back the Decepticon Headmasters and Horrorcons. Scorponok escapses beneath the planet's surface, burrowing under the desert sand in scorpion mode, as the surviving Master warriors thank the Autobots for their aid. Chromedome spots a familiar face picking his way out of rubble—an old friend of his named [[Jack (Headmasters)|Jack]]—but when he attempts to speak to him, Jack walks on by, apparently not even recognising his old comrade, before collapsing due to his injuries.

[[Image:Sixshot kidnap.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
A little later, as Jack recovers aboard Battleship Maximus, Chromedome enters, but Jack still seems not to recognise him. Daniel suggests that Chromedome transform to his small robot mode as that might be the reason, and Chromedome does so, but Jack just leaves the room, claiming he has work to do. Chromedome catches up to his friend, and they discuss their past—it soon become clear that Jack is still morose over having washed out of the rigorous Headmaster training program, but Chromedome claims that Jack's scientific mind makes him just as important, and that just because he's a Headmaster, he's no better than him. The friends embrace, but underground, Sixshot is already scheming to exploit their friendship for his own evil ends. Using his powers of disguise to pose as Chromedome, he approaches Jack and catches him off guard, knocking him out. Jack is brought back to Scorponok, where Sixshot tortures him—aware that Jack worked on the design of Battleship Maximus, he attempts to force the secrets of the [[Master Sword]] from him. However, it takes [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]]'s hypnotic powers to obtain any information, and even then, all Jack can tell them is that the Master Sword is made of a special metal, and that only Fortress knows what kind. Unable to learn anything more from him, Sixshot conceives a new plan—implanting a bomb inside Jack to blow up Battleship Maximus.

[[Image:Hm28 chromedome shoots jack.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
Discovering that Jack has been kidnapped, the Autobots deduce the reason for his capture, and realize that Scorponok has come to planet Master to find the metal that the Master Sword was made from. Just as they are about to head out to rescue him, however, the mesmerized Jack appears on the horizon, marching towards Battleship Maximus. [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] quickly scans him and detects the bomb. Chromedome tries to convince his friend to stop, but Pointblank is in favor of simply doing away with the threat, and links up with his Targetmaster partner to open fire on Jack. [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] attempts to stop him, but Pointblank calls it "the nature of war" and is about to fire when Chromedome steps up, preferring to commit the act himself. After a moment's hesitation, Chromedome leaps into his friend's path and shoots him through the chest; Jack collapses, and with his last words, apologizes to Chromedome, before the bomb detonates, leaving only a giant, smouldering crater. The Decepticons try to take advantage of the Autobots' shock, but in the battle that ensues, a vengeful Chromedome turns the tide by blasting Sixshot's arms clean off. The villains retreat, and Chromedome is all set to pursue them, but Pointblank holds him back. Chromedome burns with anger over having taken his own friend's life, but Pointblank tells him to save it for the next battle, and Chromedome admits that while he does not ''like'' Pointblank, he has come to respect his power. Pointblank is likewise impressed by Chromedome's determination, and the pair resolve to work together in the future.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
{{{!}}border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background:transparent"
{{!}}-
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (1)
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (2)
* [[Brainstorm]] (3)
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (4)
* [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] (5)
* [[Spoil (Headmasters)|Spoil]] (6)
* [[Pointblank]] (7)
* [[Peaceman (Headmasters)|Peaceman]] (8)
* [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] (9)
* [[Pointech]] (10)
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] (11)
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (13)
* [[Jack (Headmasters)|Jack]] (41)
* [[Lione]]? (43)
* [[Loafer]]? (44)
* [[Toraizer]]? (45)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (46)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] (47)
* [[Abel]] (48)
{{!}}}
|c2=
{{{!}}border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background:transparent"
{{!}}-
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Wingspan]] (16)
* [[Pounce]] (17)
* [[Apeface]] (18)
* [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] (19)
* [[Divebomb (G1)|Divebomb]] (20)
* [[Tantrum]] (21)
* [[Razorclaw (G1)|Razorclaw]] (22)
* [[Rampage (G1)|Rampage]] (23)
* [[Headstrong]] (24)
* [[Blot (G1)|Blot]] (25)
* [[Rippersnapper (G1)|Rippersnapper]] (26)
* [[Cutthroat (G1)|Cutthroat]] (27)
* [[Sinnertwin (G1)|Sinnertwin]] (28)
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Hun-Gurrr]] (29)
* [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] (30)
* [[Sixshot]] (31)
* [[Triggerhappy]] (32)
* [[Blowpipe (Headmasters)|Blowpipe]] (33)
* [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] (34)
* [[Caliburst (Headmasters)|Caliburst]] (35)
* [[Misfire]] (36)
* [[Aimless (Headmasters)|Aimless]] (37)
* [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] (38)
* [[Weirdwolf]] (39)
* [[Skullcruncher]] (40)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundblaster]] (42)
{{!}}}
|c3=
* [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]] (12)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (14)
* [[Carly|Carly Witwicky]] (15)
}}
==Quotes==
{{note|The following quotes are from the [[Omni Productions]] dub.}}
"Hey, that was shameful, Chromedome! You were crying like a baby!"
:—'''Wheelie''' is still insensitive.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
[[Image:HM28_Double_Chromedome.jpg‎|thumb|right|200px|]]
*When Chromedome says "Right, Jack?" after explaining to Daniel that he and Jack are friends, there are two Chromedomes on screen.
*Dotted throughout this episode are robots drawn based on the animation models of several of the [[Autobot Master Warrior]]s. The colorations of these characters, however, are ''way'' off of the actual colors of the toys, so it's not entirely clear whether or not these are supposed to ''be'' the characters in question. See their own articles for more details.

===Transformers references===
*Jack's death in this episode further amplifies the grudge that Chromedome holds against Sixshot, previously established in "[[I Risk My Life for Earth]]", begun by the deaths of Abel—in "[[Terror! The Six Shadows]]"—and [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]—in "[[Ultra Magnus Dies!!]]"

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''The Miracle Warriors, Part 2'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
:**The Headmasters figure that the Decepticons are simply after the metal Battleship Maximus is after, rather than anything to do with the Master Sword.
:**Rather than using his last words to pass on the information that the Decepticons know about the Master Sword, Jack apologizes to Chromedome.

:*''Title:'' "'''The Miracle Warriors - The Targetmasters: Part 2'''" ([[Shout! Factory]] sub)
::*"[[Pit]]" shows up again!

===Trivia===
*The Japanese take on the Targetmasters is slightly different than the American approach, but not as much as their take on the Headmasters. Here, rather than have the small robots transform into guns that the larger robots hold, the larger robots' fists retract, and the guns plug into their wrist in a process known as "Target On."
* The Targetmaster guns' electronic beeping as "dialogue" and penchant for sitting on their larger partners' shoulders would, many years later, show up again in the behavior of the [[Mini-Con]]s in the [[Transformers: Armada (cartoon)|''Armada'' cartoon]].

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|omni}}
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1996 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2002 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' — DVD Box ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2005 — The Takara Collection Vol 1 — ''Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

[[Category:The Headmasters episodes]]

File:HM28 Double Chromedome.jpg

2012-05-06T09:12:24Z

RQ87-D2: Chromedome stands next to Jack and another Chromedome. Screen capture from the Transformers: The Headmasters cartoon episode "Miraculous Warriors, Targetmasters (Part 2)".

Chromedome stands next to Jack and another Chromedome.
Screen capture from the Transformers: The Headmasters cartoon episode "Miraculous Warriors, Targetmasters (Part 2)".

Miraculous Warriors, Targetmasters (Part 1)

2012-05-04T20:24:32Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Headmasters
|ep=27
|image=Miraclewarriors1.jpg
|caption=Straight pimpin'.
|title="Miraculous Warriors, Targetmasters (Part 1)"
|japanese=奇跡の戦士ターゲットマスター (前編)
|romaji=Kiseki no Senshi Targetmasters (Zenpen)
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[February 12|12 February]] 1988
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Masao Itō]], [[Fumiji Kitazume]]
|animation studio=Toei
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''With the Decepticons having fled Earth, the Autobots begin the clean-up operation, but a discarded bomb threatens the planet's safety. Can the newest Autobot arrivals save the day? And what are the Decepticons planning now?'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:HM27 Chromedome saves Hardhead.jpg|thumb|200px|left|Impossible physics is your friend.]]
Following [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]'s defeat at the hands of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]], the Decepticons have abandoned Earth, leaving the Autobots to pick up the pieces and eradicate all memory of the villains' presence from the planet. The four [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] are charged with locating and disposing of the [[plasma energy]] explosives that Scorponok had planted in various locations around the Earth, while Fortress arranges to help restore areas still suffering from damage caused by the Decepticons. He appoints [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] as head of the project, at which point [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] says that he will call on some of his friends to aid in the effort as well, although [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] is not convinced he ''has'' any.

[[Image:HM27 Chromedome activates bomb.jpg|thumb|200px|right]]
Meanwhile, [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] and [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] have discovered a collection of five linked explosives in the heart of a volcano, and are in the process of carefully removing them when a volcanic tremor activates the timer. To deal with the situation as quickly as possible, the pair [[Head Formation|Cross-Head On]] and manage to escape from the cave with the explosives as lava laps at their heels.

On Earth, Spike and [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] attend a conference at the [[United Nations]] in preparation for the clean-up operation. Daniel continues to poke fun at Wheelie due to the failure of his "friends" to appear—but just then, three Autobots—[[Pointblank]], [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] and [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]]—swoop down out of the sky, land in front of the two youths and greet Wheelie. Daniel is genuinely impressed by these cool-looking warriors and compliments Wheelie on his friends, but Pointblank seems surprised to hear them referred to this way. Wheelie stutters and stumbles, but Pointblank cuts him off and asks to see Fortress; when Daniel moves off to lead the way for the new arrivals, Pointblank takes Wheelie aside and demands to know why Daniel thinks they are his friends. Wheelie apologizes—in fact, this trio are his superior officers!

[[Image:HM27 Fortress meets Targetmasters.jpg|thumb|200px|left|Meet the new guys!]]
Back at [[Autobot City]], Fortress attempts to figure out how to deal with the looming detonation of the bombs Chromedome and Hardhead discovered, but finds that there will be no time to defuse them. Just then, Wheelie and Daniel arrive with Pointblank, Sureshot and Crosshairs in tow. Famous amongst Autobots for their expertise in battles throughout the universe, Pointblank cautions Fortress that Earth will never truly be safe until the Decepticons are totally wiped out, but Fortress has more pressing concerns in the form of the impending explosion and invites the newly-arrived Autobots along as Battleship Maximus takes off.

[[Image:HM27 Fortress meets refugees.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Meet the other new guys!]]
Chromedome and Hardhead are still trying to escape the volcanic caverns, only to find themselves trapped by a rockslide. Battleship Maximus arrives in time to dig them out, and they bring the plasma bombs onboard, so that they may fly them out into space and allow them to harmlessly detonate in the void. While Spike is busy leading the [[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobots]], [[Technobot (G1)|Technobots]] and [[Trainbot|Trainbots]] in destroying the Decepticons' abandoned Earth headquarters, Battleship Maximus races to get to a safe distance. Pointblank and co. offer to fly ahead with them, tossing out a veiled insult at the Headmasters in the process by making it clear they are stronger and faster, but Fortress refuses. Soon, they reach the safety zone, and are about to release the explosives into space, when suddenly, a small craft appears on their radar, broadcasting an SOS. The ship is a refugee craft from the Headmasters' adopted homewold of planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], carrying six escapees that are being pursued by [[Sixshot]] and a trio of Decepticons familiar to Pointblank and his team—[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], [[Misfire]] and [[Triggerhappy]]. While they engage them in battle, the refugee ship docks with Battleship Maximus, and [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] translates the escapees' words, revealing that the Decepticons have turned their attention to planet Master, returning there and attacking it. Eager to prove themselves the better of Pointblank's team, the Headmasters spring into action against Sixshot, but while they are dealing with him, the Master refugees try to do their part by bringing the explosives aboard their craft and flying them out into space. Slugslinger makes for their ship as it flies by overhead and Pointblank tackles him, but just then, the explosives go off, bathing Slugslinger, Pointblank and their teammates in a wave of plasma energy...

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
{{{!}}border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background:transparent"
{{!}}-
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] (1)
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Skyfire]] (2)
* [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] (3)
* [[Brainstorm]] (4)
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (5)
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (6)
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (7)
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] (8)
* [[Ramhorn (G1)|Ramhorn]] (9)
* [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]] (10)
* [[Rewind]] (11)
* [[Eject]] (12)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (13)
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (14)
* [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] (17)
* [[Pointblank]] (18)
* [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] (19)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] (20)
* [[Afterburner (G1)|Afterburner]] (21)
* [[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] (22)
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Scattershot (G1)|Scattershot]] (23)
* [[Lightspeed (G1 Technobot)|Lightspeed]] (24)
* [[Nosecone (G1)|Nosecone]] (25)
* [[Groove (G1)|Groove]] (26)
* [[Blades (G1)|Blades]] (27)
* [[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Spot]] (28)
* [[Streetwise (G1)|Streetwise]] (29)
* [[First Aid (G1)|First Aid]] (30)
* [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]] (31)
* [[Computron (G1)|Computron]] (32)
* [[Getsuei]] (33)
* [[Yukikaze (Headmasters)|Yukikaze]] (34)
* [[Kaen]] (35)
* [[Seizan]] (36)
* [[Suiken]] (37)
* [[Shōki]] (38)
* [[Raiden]] (39)
* [[Spoil (Headmasters)|Spoil]] (42)
* [[Pointech]] (44)
* [[Peaceman (Headmasters)|Peaceman]] (45)
{{!}}}
|c2=
* [[Blowpipe (Headmasters)|Blowpipe]] (40)
* [[Aimless (Headmasters)|Aimless]] (41)
* [[Caliburst (Headmasters)|Caliburst]] (43)
* [[Misfire]] (46)
* [[Triggerhappy]] (47)
* [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] (48)
* [[Sixshot]] (49)

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

}}

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
[[Image:Hmep27 ironhide undead.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
*Appearing in an establishing crowd scene alongside Skyfire is [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]]—who died in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''. Not that he's unique [[Windcharger (G1)|in]] [[Wheeljack (G1)|this]] [[Prowl (G1)|sort]] [[Brawn (G1)|of]] [[Huffer (G1)|thing]].
*Also appearing in the crowd scene is a blue and white [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]].
*When Arcee shakes hands with Spike, she appears to be abnormally small. Not that this series is unique [[Scale|in that sort of thing]] either.
*When the Protectobots unite, Defensor has green eyes instead of blue.
*When the Autobots receive the SOS transmission from the refugees, there's no sound.
*Fortress has a dark gray fist instead of a light gray fist when he says to open the hatch.
*Fortress has a dark gray fist again when he tells Twincast they have to stop the refugees from taking the bombs.
*When Highbrow leaps up with the others to do the scrum attack, he has a light gray head instead of black.

===Continuity errors===
*For some unfathomable reason, the Master refugees speak only in unintelligible [[Mini-Con]]-style beeps and whistles in this and all subsequent episodes (they require Twincast to translate for them here, but when they become [[Targetmaster]]s, their partners are also able to understand them). This totally unexplained trait is limited purely to these six Master natives, with none of the Headmasters having this problem, nor any of the other robots from Master that we have met, or will meet, such as [[Abel]], [[Jack (Headmasters)|Jack]] or [[Kirk]].

===Continuity notes===
*Scorponok and the other Decepticons have fled Earth in between his defeat at the end of the previous episode, and the beginning of this one.

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''The Miracle Warriors, Part 1'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

:*''Title:'' "'''The Miracle Warriors - The Targetmasters: Part One'''" ([[Shout! Factory]] sub)
::*Highbrow utters "Thank the [[AllSpark]] they failed." in response to the Decepticon bomb plot failing, in the first ever namedropping of the AllSpark in Generation 1 media.
::*Still, Twincast refers to his [[Mini-Cassette]]s as Deployers.
::*The [[Pit]] is again referred to.

===Trivia===
*The Targetmaster-partners-to-be are never referred to by name in ''The Headmasters''. This article lists them by their American names for clarity.
*This is the third episode of ''The Headmasters'' to feature an insert song; it features the debut of "[[Destron Sanka]]", and also features a reprise of the one insert song previously used in the series, "[[Tate! Ikari no Headmasters]]". These two songs are the only ones used in the series.
*Pointblank's rather dismissive attitude towards Wheelie (for which he can't really be blamed) is the start of a trend of him being something of a dick to most of the other Autobots. Why? Because he's a ''professional'' soldier.
*As the future Targetmasters fly to meet Wheelie, the Chrysler Building can be seen in the background. This is surprisingly geographically accurate, assuming they're coming down 1st Avenue.
*As Fortress works on the problem of the bombs, his screen displays what appears to be technical information for a computer processor, possibly generated by the [[Wikipedia:CP/M|CP/M]] operating system.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|omni}}
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1996 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2002 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' — DVD Box ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2005 — The Takara Collection Vol 1 — ''Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

[[Category:The Headmasters episodes]]

Miraculous Warriors, Targetmasters (Part 1)

2012-05-04T20:21:35Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Headmasters
|ep=27
|image=Miraclewarriors1.jpg
|caption=Straight pimpin'.
|title="Miraculous Warriors, Targetmasters (Part 1)"
|japanese=奇跡の戦士ターゲットマスター (前編)
|romaji=Kiseki no Senshi Targetmasters (Zenpen)
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[February 12|12 February]] 1988
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Masao Itō]], [[Fumiji Kitazume]]
|animation studio=Toei
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''With the Decepticons having fled Earth, the Autobots begin the clean-up operation, but a discarded bomb threatens the planet's safety. Can the newest Autobot arrivals save the day? And what are the Decepticons planning now?'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:HM27 Chromedome saves Hardhead.jpg|thumb|200px|left|Impossible physics is your friend.]]
Following [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]'s defeat at the hands of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]], the Decepticons have abandoned Earth, leaving the Autobots to pick up the pieces and eradicate all memory of the villains' presence from the planet. The four [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] are charged with locating and disposing of the [[plasma energy]] explosives that Scorponok had planted in various locations around the Earth, while Fortress arranges to help restore areas still suffering from damage caused by the Decepticons. He appoints [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] as head of the project, at which point [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] says that he will call on some of his friends to aid in the effort as well, although [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] is not convinced he ''has'' any.

[[Image:HM27 Chromedome activates bomb.jpg|thumb|200px|right]]
Meanwhile, [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] and [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] have discovered a collection of five linked explosives in the heart of a volcano, and are in the process of carefully removing them when a volcanic tremor activates the timer. To deal with the situation as quickly as possible, the pair [[Head Formation|Cross-Head On]] and manage to escape from the cave with the explosives as lava laps at their heels.

On Earth, Spike and [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] attend a conference at the [[United Nations]] in preparation for the clean-up operation. Daniel continues to poke fun at Wheelie due to the failure of his "friends" to appear—but just then, three Autobots—[[Pointblank]], [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] and [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]]—swoop down out of the sky, land in front of the two youths and greet Wheelie. Daniel is genuinely impressed by these cool-looking warriors and compliments Wheelie on his friends, but Pointblank seems surprised to hear them referred to this way. Wheelie stutters and stumbles, but Pointblank cuts him off and asks to see Fortress; when Daniel moves off to lead the way for the new arrivals, Pointblank takes Wheelie aside and demands to know why Daniel thinks they are his friends. Wheelie apologizes—in fact, this trio are his superior officers!

[[Image:HM27 Fortress meets Targetmasters.jpg|thumb|200px|left|Meet the new guys!]]
Back at [[Autobot City]], Fortress attempts to figure out how to deal with the looming detonation of the bombs Chromedome and Hardhead discovered, but finds that there will be no time to defuse them. Just then, Wheelie and Daniel arrive with Pointblank, Sureshot and Crosshairs in tow. Famous amongst Autobots for their expertise in battles throughout the universe, Pointblank cautions Fortress that Earth will never truly be safe until the Decepticons are totally wiped out, but Fortress has more pressing concerns in the form of the impending explosion and invites the newly-arrived Autobots along as Battleship Maximus takes off.

[[Image:HM27 Fortress meets refugees.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Meet the other new guys!]]
Chromedome and Hardhead are still trying to escape the volcanic caverns, only to find themselves trapped by a rockslide. Battleship Maximus arrives in time to dig them out, and they bring the plasma bombs onboard, so that they may fly them out into space and allow them to harmlessly detonate in the void. While Spike is busy leading the [[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobots]], [[Technobot (G1)|Technobots]] and [[Trainbot|Trainbots]] in destroying the Decepticons' abandoned Earth headquarters, Battleship Maximus races to get to a safe distance. Pointblank and co. offer to fly ahead with them, tossing out a veiled insult at the Headmasters in the process by making it clear they are stronger and faster, but Fortress refuses. Soon, they reach the safety zone, and are about to release the explosives into space, when suddenly, a small craft appears on their radar, broadcasting an SOS. The ship is a refugee craft from the Headmasters' adopted homewold of planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], carrying six escapees that are being pursued by [[Sixshot]] and a trio of Decepticons familiar to Pointblank and his team—[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], [[Misfire]] and [[Triggerhappy]]. While they engage them in battle, the refugee ship docks with Battleship Maximus, and [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] translates the escapees' words, revealing that the Decepticons have turned their attention to planet Master, returning there and attacking it. Eager to prove themselves the better of Pointblank's team, the Headmasters spring into action against Sixshot, but while they are dealing with him, the Master refugees try to do their part by bringing the explosives aboard their craft and flying them out into space. Slugslinger makes for their ship as it flies by overhead and Pointblank tackles him, but just then, the explosives go off, bathing Slugslinger, Pointblank and their teammates in a wave of plasma energy...

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
{{{!}}border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background:transparent"
{{!}}-
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] (1)
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Skyfire]] (2)
* [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] (3)
* [[Brainstorm]] (4)
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (5)
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (6)
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (7)
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] (8)
* [[Ramhorn (G1)|Ramhorn]] (9)
* [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]] (10)
* [[Rewind]] (11)
* [[Eject]] (12)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (13)
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (14)
* [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] (17)
* [[Pointblank]] (18)
* [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] (19)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] (20)
* [[Afterburner (G1)|Afterburner]] (21)
* [[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] (22)
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Scattershot (G1)|Scattershot]] (23)
* [[Lightspeed (G1 Technobot)|Lightspeed]] (24)
* [[Nosecone (G1)|Nosecone]] (25)
* [[Groove (G1)|Groove]] (26)
* [[Blades (G1)|Blades]] (27)
* [[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Spot]] (28)
* [[Streetwise (G1)|Streetwise]] (29)
* [[First Aid (G1)|First Aid]] (30)
* [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]] (31)
* [[Computron (G1)|Computron]] (32)
* [[Getsuei]] (33)
* [[Yukikaze (Headmasters)|Yukikaze]] (34)
* [[Kaen]] (35)
* [[Seizan]] (36)
* [[Suiken]] (37)
* [[Shōki]] (38)
* [[Raiden]] (39)
* [[Spoil (Headmasters)|Spoil]] (42)
* [[Pointech]] (44)
* [[Peaceman (Headmasters)|Peaceman]] (45)
{{!}}}
|c2=
* [[Blowpipe (Headmasters)|Blowpipe]] (40)
* [[Aimless (Headmasters)|Aimless]] (41)
* [[Caliburst (Headmasters)|Caliburst]] (43)
* [[Misfire]] (46)
* [[Triggerhappy]] (47)
* [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] (48)
* [[Sixshot]] (49)

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

}}

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
[[Image:Hmep27 ironhide undead.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
*Appearing in an establishing crowd scene alongside Skyfire is [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]]—who died in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''. Not that he's unique [[Windcharger (G1)|in]] [[Wheeljack (G1)|this]] [[Prowl (G1)|sort]] [[Brawn (G1)|of]] [[Huffer (G1)|thing]].
*Also appearing in the crowd scene is a blue and white [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]].
*When Arcee shakes hands with Spike, she appears to be abnormally small. Not that this series is unique [[Scale|in that sort of thing]] either.
*When the Protectobots unite, Defensor has green eyes instead of blue.
*When the Autobots receive the SOS transmission from the refugees, there's no sound.
*Fortress has a dark gray fist instead of a light gray fist when he says to open the hatch.
*Fortress has a dark gray fist again when he tells Twincast they have to stop the refugees from taking the bombs.

===Continuity errors===
*For some unfathomable reason, the Master refugees speak only in unintelligible [[Mini-Con]]-style beeps and whistles in this and all subsequent episodes (they require Twincast to translate for them here, but when they become [[Targetmaster]]s, their partners are also able to understand them). This totally unexplained trait is limited purely to these six Master natives, with none of the Headmasters having this problem, nor any of the other robots from Master that we have met, or will meet, such as [[Abel]], [[Jack (Headmasters)|Jack]] or [[Kirk]].

===Continuity notes===
*Scorponok and the other Decepticons have fled Earth in between his defeat at the end of the previous episode, and the beginning of this one.

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''The Miracle Warriors, Part 1'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

:*''Title:'' "'''The Miracle Warriors - The Targetmasters: Part One'''" ([[Shout! Factory]] sub)
::*Highbrow utters "Thank the [[AllSpark]] they failed." in response to the Decepticon bomb plot failing, in the first ever namedropping of the AllSpark in Generation 1 media.
::*Still, Twincast refers to his [[Mini-Cassette]]s as Deployers.
::*The [[Pit]] is again referred to.

===Trivia===
*The Targetmaster-partners-to-be are never referred to by name in ''The Headmasters''. This article lists them by their American names for clarity.
*This is the third episode of ''The Headmasters'' to feature an insert song; it features the debut of "[[Destron Sanka]]", and also features a reprise of the one insert song previously used in the series, "[[Tate! Ikari no Headmasters]]". These two songs are the only ones used in the series.
*Pointblank's rather dismissive attitude towards Wheelie (for which he can't really be blamed) is the start of a trend of him being something of a dick to most of the other Autobots. Why? Because he's a ''professional'' soldier.
*As the future Targetmasters fly to meet Wheelie, the Chrysler Building can be seen in the background. This is surprisingly geographically accurate, assuming they're coming down 1st Avenue.
*As Fortress works on the problem of the bombs, his screen displays what appears to be technical information for a computer processor, possibly generated by the [[Wikipedia:CP/M|CP/M]] operating system.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|omni}}
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1996 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2002 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' — DVD Box ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2005 — The Takara Collection Vol 1 — ''Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

[[Category:The Headmasters episodes]]

Miraculous Warriors, Targetmasters (Part 1)

2012-05-04T20:20:17Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Headmasters
|ep=27
|image=Miraclewarriors1.jpg
|caption=Straight pimpin'.
|title="Miraculous Warriors, Targetmasters (Part 1)"
|japanese=奇跡の戦士ターゲットマスター (前編)
|romaji=Kiseki no Senshi Targetmasters (Zenpen)
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[February 12|12 February]] 1988
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Masao Itō]], [[Fumiji Kitazume]]
|animation studio=Toei
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''With the Decepticons having fled Earth, the Autobots begin the clean-up operation, but a discarded bomb threatens the planet's safety. Can the newest Autobot arrivals save the day? And what are the Decepticons planning now?'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:HM27 Chromedome saves Hardhead.jpg|thumb|200px|left|Impossible physics is your friend.]]
Following [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]'s defeat at the hands of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]], the Decepticons have abandoned Earth, leaving the Autobots to pick up the pieces and eradicate all memory of the villains' presence from the planet. The four [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] are charged with locating and disposing of the [[plasma energy]] explosives that Scorponok had planted in various locations around the Earth, while Fortress arranges to help restore areas still suffering from damage caused by the Decepticons. He appoints [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] as head of the project, at which point [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] says that he will call on some of his friends to aid in the effort as well, although [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] is not convinced he ''has'' any.

[[Image:HM27 Chromedome activates bomb.jpg|thumb|200px|right]]
Meanwhile, [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] and [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] have discovered a collection of five linked explosives in the heart of a volcano, and are in the process of carefully removing them when a volcanic tremor activates the timer. To deal with the situation as quickly as possible, the pair [[Head Formation|Cross-Head On]] and manage to escape from the cave with the explosives as lava laps at their heels.

On Earth, Spike and [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] attend a conference at the [[United Nations]] in preparation for the clean-up operation. Daniel continues to poke fun at Wheelie due to the failure of his "friends" to appear—but just then, three Autobots—[[Pointblank]], [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] and [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]]—swoop down out of the sky, land in front of the two youths and greet Wheelie. Daniel is genuinely impressed by these cool-looking warriors and compliments Wheelie on his friends, but Pointblank seems surprised to hear them referred to this way. Wheelie stutters and stumbles, but Pointblank cuts him off and asks to see Fortress; when Daniel moves off to lead the way for the new arrivals, Pointblank takes Wheelie aside and demands to know why Daniel thinks they are his friends. Wheelie apologizes—in fact, this trio are his superior officers!

[[Image:HM27 Fortress meets Targetmasters.jpg|thumb|200px|left|Meet the new guys!]]
Back at [[Autobot City]], Fortress attempts to figure out how to deal with the looming detonation of the bombs Chromedome and Hardhead discovered, but finds that there will be no time to defuse them. Just then, Wheelie and Daniel arrive with Pointblank, Sureshot and Crosshairs in tow. Famous amongst Autobots for their expertise in battles throughout the universe, Pointblank cautions Fortress that Earth will never truly be safe until the Decepticons are totally wiped out, but Fortress has more pressing concerns in the form of the impending explosion and invites the newly-arrived Autobots along as Battleship Maximus takes off.

[[Image:HM27 Fortress meets refugees.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Meet the other new guys!]]
Chromedome and Hardhead are still trying to escape the volcanic caverns, only to find themselves trapped by a rockslide. Battleship Maximus arrives in time to dig them out, and they bring the plasma bombs onboard, so that they may fly them out into space and allow them to harmlessly detonate in the void. While Spike is busy leading the [[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobots]], [[Technobot (G1)|Technobots]] and [[Trainbot|Trainbots]] in destroying the Decepticons' abandoned Earth headquarters, Battleship Maximus races to get to a safe distance. Pointblank and co. offer to fly ahead with them, tossing out a veiled insult at the Headmasters in the process by making it clear they are stronger and faster, but Fortress refuses. Soon, they reach the safety zone, and are about to release the explosives into space, when suddenly, a small craft appears on their radar, broadcasting an SOS. The ship is a refugee craft from the Headmasters' adopted homewold of planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], carrying six escapees that are being pursued by [[Sixshot]] and a trio of Decepticons familiar to Pointblank and his team—[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], [[Misfire]] and [[Triggerhappy]]. While they engage them in battle, the refugee ship docks with Battleship Maximus, and [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] translates the escapees' words, revealing that the Decepticons have turned their attention to planet Master, returning there and attacking it. Eager to prove themselves the better of Pointblank's team, the Headmasters spring into action against Sixshot, but while they are dealing with him, the Master refugees try to do their part by bringing the explosives aboard their craft and flying them out into space. Slugslinger makes for their ship as it flies by overhead and Pointblank tackles him, but just then, the explosives go off, bathing Slugslinger, Pointblank and their teammates in a wave of plasma energy...

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
{{{!}}border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background:transparent"
{{!}}-
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] (1)
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Skyfire]] (2)
* [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] (3)
* [[Brainstorm]] (4)
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (5)
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (6)
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (7)
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] (8)
* [[Ramhorn (G1)|Ramhorn]] (9)
* [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]] (10)
* [[Rewind]] (11)
* [[Eject]] (12)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (13)
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (14)
* [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] (17)
* [[Pointblank]] (18)
* [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] (19)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] (20)
* [[Afterburner (G1)|Afterburner]] (21)
* [[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] (22)
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Scattershot (G1)|Scattershot]] (23)
* [[Lightspeed (G1 Technobot)|Lightspeed]] (24)
* [[Nosecone (G1)|Nosecone]] (25)
* [[Groove (G1)|Groove]] (26)
* [[Blades (G1)|Blades]] (27)
* [[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Spot]] (28)
* [[Streetwise (G1)|Streetwise]] (29)
* [[First Aid (G1)|First Aid]] (30)
* [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]] (31)
* [[Computron (G1)|Computron]] (32)
* [[Getsuei]] (33)
* [[Yukikaze (Headmasters)|Yukikaze]] (34)
* [[Kaen]] (35)
* [[Seizan]] (36)
* [[Suiken]] (37)
* [[Shōki]] (38)
* [[Raiden]] (39)
* [[Spoil (Headmasters)|Spoil]] (42)
* [[Pointech]] (44)
* [[Peaceman (Headmasters)|Peaceman]] (45)
{{!}}}
|c2=
* [[Blowpipe (Headmasters)|Blowpipe]] (40)
* [[Aimless (Headmasters)|Aimless]] (41)
* [[Caliburst (Headmasters)|Caliburst]] (43)
* [[Misfire]] (46)
* [[Triggerhappy]] (47)
* [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] (48)
* [[Sixshot]] (49)

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

}}

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
[[Image:Hmep27 ironhide undead.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
*Appearing in an establishing crowd scene alongside Skyfire is [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]]—who died in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''. Not that he's unique [[Windcharger (G1)|in]] [[Wheeljack (G1)|this]] [[Prowl (G1)|sort]] [[Brawn (G1)|of]] [[Huffer (G1)|thing]].
*Also appearing in the crowd scene is a blue and white [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]].
*When Arcee shakes hands with Spike, she appears to be abnormally small. Not that this series is unique [[Scale|in that sort of thing]] either.
*When the Protectobots unite, Defensor has green eyes instead of blue.
*When the Autobots receive the SOS transmission from the refugees, there's no sound.
*Fortress has a dark gray fist instead of a light gray fist when he says to open the hatch.

===Continuity errors===
*For some unfathomable reason, the Master refugees speak only in unintelligible [[Mini-Con]]-style beeps and whistles in this and all subsequent episodes (they require Twincast to translate for them here, but when they become [[Targetmaster]]s, their partners are also able to understand them). This totally unexplained trait is limited purely to these six Master natives, with none of the Headmasters having this problem, nor any of the other robots from Master that we have met, or will meet, such as [[Abel]], [[Jack (Headmasters)|Jack]] or [[Kirk]].

===Continuity notes===
*Scorponok and the other Decepticons have fled Earth in between his defeat at the end of the previous episode, and the beginning of this one.

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''The Miracle Warriors, Part 1'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

:*''Title:'' "'''The Miracle Warriors - The Targetmasters: Part One'''" ([[Shout! Factory]] sub)
::*Highbrow utters "Thank the [[AllSpark]] they failed." in response to the Decepticon bomb plot failing, in the first ever namedropping of the AllSpark in Generation 1 media.
::*Still, Twincast refers to his [[Mini-Cassette]]s as Deployers.
::*The [[Pit]] is again referred to.

===Trivia===
*The Targetmaster-partners-to-be are never referred to by name in ''The Headmasters''. This article lists them by their American names for clarity.
*This is the third episode of ''The Headmasters'' to feature an insert song; it features the debut of "[[Destron Sanka]]", and also features a reprise of the one insert song previously used in the series, "[[Tate! Ikari no Headmasters]]". These two songs are the only ones used in the series.
*Pointblank's rather dismissive attitude towards Wheelie (for which he can't really be blamed) is the start of a trend of him being something of a dick to most of the other Autobots. Why? Because he's a ''professional'' soldier.
*As the future Targetmasters fly to meet Wheelie, the Chrysler Building can be seen in the background. This is surprisingly geographically accurate, assuming they're coming down 1st Avenue.
*As Fortress works on the problem of the bombs, his screen displays what appears to be technical information for a computer processor, possibly generated by the [[Wikipedia:CP/M|CP/M]] operating system.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|omni}}
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1996 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2002 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' — DVD Box ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2005 — The Takara Collection Vol 1 — ''Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

[[Category:The Headmasters episodes]]

Miraculous Warriors, Targetmasters (Part 1)

2012-05-04T18:04:00Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Headmasters
|ep=27
|image=Miraclewarriors1.jpg
|caption=Straight pimpin'.
|title="Miraculous Warriors, Targetmasters (Part 1)"
|japanese=奇跡の戦士ターゲットマスター (前編)
|romaji=Kiseki no Senshi Targetmasters (Zenpen)
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[February 12|12 February]] 1988
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Masao Itō]], [[Fumiji Kitazume]]
|animation studio=Toei
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''With the Decepticons having fled Earth, the Autobots begin the clean-up operation, but a discarded bomb threatens the planet's safety. Can the newest Autobot arrivals save the day? And what are the Decepticons planning now?'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:HM27 Chromedome saves Hardhead.jpg|thumb|200px|left|Impossible physics is your friend.]]
Following [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]'s defeat at the hands of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]], the Decepticons have abandoned Earth, leaving the Autobots to pick up the pieces and eradicate all memory of the villains' presence from the planet. The four [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] are charged with locating and disposing of the [[plasma energy]] explosives that Scorponok had planted in various locations around the Earth, while Fortress arranges to help restore areas still suffering from damage caused by the Decepticons. He appoints [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] as head of the project, at which point [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] says that he will call on some of his friends to aid in the effort as well, although [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] is not convinced he ''has'' any.

[[Image:HM27 Chromedome activates bomb.jpg|thumb|200px|right]]
Meanwhile, [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] and [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] have discovered a collection of five linked explosives in the heart of a volcano, and are in the process of carefully removing them when a volcanic tremor activates the timer. To deal with the situation as quickly as possible, the pair [[Head Formation|Cross-Head On]] and manage to escape from the cave with the explosives as lava laps at their heels.

On Earth, Spike and [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] attend a conference at the [[United Nations]] in preparation for the clean-up operation. Daniel continues to poke fun at Wheelie due to the failure of his "friends" to appear—but just then, three Autobots—[[Pointblank]], [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] and [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]]—swoop down out of the sky, land in front of the two youths and greet Wheelie. Daniel is genuinely impressed by these cool-looking warriors and compliments Wheelie on his friends, but Pointblank seems surprised to hear them referred to this way. Wheelie stutters and stumbles, but Pointblank cuts him off and asks to see Fortress; when Daniel moves off to lead the way for the new arrivals, Pointblank takes Wheelie aside and demands to know why Daniel thinks they are his friends. Wheelie apologizes—in fact, this trio are his superior officers!

[[Image:HM27 Fortress meets Targetmasters.jpg|thumb|200px|left|Meet the new guys!]]
Back at [[Autobot City]], Fortress attempts to figure out how to deal with the looming detonation of the bombs Chromedome and Hardhead discovered, but finds that there will be no time to defuse them. Just then, Wheelie and Daniel arrive with Pointblank, Sureshot and Crosshairs in tow. Famous amongst Autobots for their expertise in battles throughout the universe, Pointblank cautions Fortress that Earth will never truly be safe until the Decepticons are totally wiped out, but Fortress has more pressing concerns in the form of the impending explosion and invites the newly-arrived Autobots along as Battleship Maximus takes off.

[[Image:HM27 Fortress meets refugees.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Meet the other new guys!]]
Chromedome and Hardhead are still trying to escape the volcanic caverns, only to find themselves trapped by a rockslide. Battleship Maximus arrives in time to dig them out, and they bring the plasma bombs onboard, so that they may fly them out into space and allow them to harmlessly detonate in the void. While Spike is busy leading the [[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobots]], [[Technobot (G1)|Technobots]] and [[Trainbot|Trainbots]] in destroying the Decepticons' abandoned Earth headquarters, Battleship Maximus races to get to a safe distance. Pointblank and co. offer to fly ahead with them, tossing out a veiled insult at the Headmasters in the process by making it clear they are stronger and faster, but Fortress refuses. Soon, they reach the safety zone, and are about to release the explosives into space, when suddenly, a small craft appears on their radar, broadcasting an SOS. The ship is a refugee craft from the Headmasters' adopted homewold of planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], carrying six escapees that are being pursued by [[Sixshot]] and a trio of Decepticons familiar to Pointblank and his team—[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], [[Misfire]] and [[Triggerhappy]]. While they engage them in battle, the refugee ship docks with Battleship Maximus, and [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] translates the escapees' words, revealing that the Decepticons have turned their attention to planet Master, returning there and attacking it. Eager to prove themselves the better of Pointblank's team, the Headmasters spring into action against Sixshot, but while they are dealing with him, the Master refugees try to do their part by bringing the explosives aboard their craft and flying them out into space. Slugslinger makes for their ship as it flies by overhead and Pointblank tackles him, but just then, the explosives go off, bathing Slugslinger, Pointblank and their teammates in a wave of plasma energy...

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
{{{!}}border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background:transparent"
{{!}}-
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] (1)
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Skyfire]] (2)
* [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] (3)
* [[Brainstorm]] (4)
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (5)
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (6)
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (7)
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] (8)
* [[Ramhorn (G1)|Ramhorn]] (9)
* [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]] (10)
* [[Rewind]] (11)
* [[Eject]] (12)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (13)
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (14)
* [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] (17)
* [[Pointblank]] (18)
* [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] (19)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] (20)
* [[Afterburner (G1)|Afterburner]] (21)
* [[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] (22)
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Scattershot (G1)|Scattershot]] (23)
* [[Lightspeed (G1 Technobot)|Lightspeed]] (24)
* [[Nosecone (G1)|Nosecone]] (25)
* [[Groove (G1)|Groove]] (26)
* [[Blades (G1)|Blades]] (27)
* [[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Spot]] (28)
* [[Streetwise (G1)|Streetwise]] (29)
* [[First Aid (G1)|First Aid]] (30)
* [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]] (31)
* [[Computron (G1)|Computron]] (32)
* [[Getsuei]] (33)
* [[Yukikaze (Headmasters)|Yukikaze]] (34)
* [[Kaen]] (35)
* [[Seizan]] (36)
* [[Suiken]] (37)
* [[Shōki]] (38)
* [[Raiden]] (39)
* [[Spoil (Headmasters)|Spoil]] (42)
* [[Pointech]] (44)
* [[Peaceman (Headmasters)|Peaceman]] (45)
{{!}}}
|c2=
* [[Blowpipe (Headmasters)|Blowpipe]] (40)
* [[Aimless (Headmasters)|Aimless]] (41)
* [[Caliburst (Headmasters)|Caliburst]] (43)
* [[Misfire]] (46)
* [[Triggerhappy]] (47)
* [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] (48)
* [[Sixshot]] (49)

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

}}

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
[[Image:Hmep27 ironhide undead.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
*Appearing in an establishing crowd scene alongside Skyfire is [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]]—who died in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''. Not that he's unique [[Windcharger (G1)|in]] [[Wheeljack (G1)|this]] [[Prowl (G1)|sort]] [[Brawn (G1)|of]] [[Huffer (G1)|thing]].
*Also appearing in the crowd scene is a blue and white [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]].
*When Arcee shakes hands with Spike, she appears to be abnormally small. Not that this series is unique [[Scale|in that sort of thing]] either.
*When the Protectobots unite, Defensor has green eyes instead of blue.
*When the Autobots receive the SOS transmission from the refugees, there's no sound.

===Continuity errors===
*For some unfathomable reason, the Master refugees speak only in unintelligible [[Mini-Con]]-style beeps and whistles in this and all subsequent episodes (they require Twincast to translate for them here, but when they become [[Targetmaster]]s, their partners are also able to understand them). This totally unexplained trait is limited purely to these six Master natives, with none of the Headmasters having this problem, nor any of the other robots from Master that we have met, or will meet, such as [[Abel]], [[Jack (Headmasters)|Jack]] or [[Kirk]].

===Continuity notes===
*Scorponok and the other Decepticons have fled Earth in between his defeat at the end of the previous episode, and the beginning of this one.

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''The Miracle Warriors, Part 1'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

:*''Title:'' "'''The Miracle Warriors - The Targetmasters: Part One'''" ([[Shout! Factory]] sub)
::*Highbrow utters "Thank the [[AllSpark]] they failed." in response to the Decepticon bomb plot failing, in the first ever namedropping of the AllSpark in Generation 1 media.
::*Still, Twincast refers to his [[Mini-Cassette]]s as Deployers.
::*The [[Pit]] is again referred to.

===Trivia===
*The Targetmaster-partners-to-be are never referred to by name in ''The Headmasters''. This article lists them by their American names for clarity.
*This is the third episode of ''The Headmasters'' to feature an insert song; it features the debut of "[[Destron Sanka]]", and also features a reprise of the one insert song previously used in the series, "[[Tate! Ikari no Headmasters]]". These two songs are the only ones used in the series.
*Pointblank's rather dismissive attitude towards Wheelie (for which he can't really be blamed) is the start of a trend of him being something of a dick to most of the other Autobots. Why? Because he's a ''professional'' soldier.
*As the future Targetmasters fly to meet Wheelie, the Chrysler Building can be seen in the background. This is surprisingly geographically accurate, assuming they're coming down 1st Avenue.
*As Fortress works on the problem of the bombs, his screen displays what appears to be technical information for a computer processor, possibly generated by the [[Wikipedia:CP/M|CP/M]] operating system.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|omni}}
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1996 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2002 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' — DVD Box ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2005 — The Takara Collection Vol 1 — ''Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

[[Category:The Headmasters episodes]]

The Emperor of Destruction Vanishes on an Iceberg

2012-05-03T16:31:33Z

RQ87-D2: /* Quotes */

{{episode
|series=Headmasters
|ep=25
|image=Iceberg.jpg
|caption=Do I feel lucky? Well, do you...punk?
|title="The Emperor of Destruction Vanishes on an Iceberg"
|japanese=氷山に消えた破壊大帝
|romaji=Hyōzan ni Kieta Hakai Taitei
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[January 29|29 January]] 1988
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Akinori Ōrai]]
|animation studio=Toei
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''With the true extent of Galvatron's master plan revealed, the Autobot Headmasters face the Emperor of Destruction in a final battle in the Arctic.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:HM25 Metroplex and Headmasters.jpg|left|200px|thumb]]
Growing bolder and more determined following the death of [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]], [[Sixshot]] steps up the [[Decepticon]] attack on Earth, dispatching the [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]], [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]], [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] and [[Horrorcon|Horrorcons]] to assault the Autobots on numerous fronts. Five installations are simultaneously attacked, and [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] instructs [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] and [[Autobot Mini-Cassette|his cassettes]] to gather information that will allow them to pre-empt the next attack. Even [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]], still smarting over Ultra Magnus's demise, wants to participate in the upcoming counterattack, but as he argues with Fortress, reports start pouring in from Autobot bases that are under attack, and numerous Autobot teams race to respond to their distress calls. Metroplex acquiesces, with one provision—when the time comes, Sixshot will be his.

[[Image:HM25 Galvatron and Counterpunch.jpg|right|200px|thumb]]
Meanwhile, on [[Chaar]], Galvatron, [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] watch footage of Sixshot's attack on Earth, with the two lieutenants quietly grumbling about how Sixshot is constantly showing them up. Elsewhere in the base, [[Punch (G1)|Counterpunch]] regards the colossal stockpile of [[Energon cube|energon cubes]] that the Decepticons have amassed, and then crosses paths with Galvatron, who explains that he is about to travel to Earth, in order to make history with his next move. Counterpunch, as Punch, heads for [[Autobot City]] to inform Fortress and the Headmasters of this, but they mistakenly believe that Galvatron plans to have Scorponok, who has been absent from their sights for some time, lead the attack against the planet. At the same time, Scorponok is discovered by Twincast and [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]] in the ruins of an Autobot energy plant in Alaska, which he has demolished. The pair come under attack from a passing Sixshot, who blasts Twincast into a chasm while Steeljaw escapes to report back to Fortress.

[[Image:Grandgalvatron.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Ironically comes to pass nearly twenty years later.]]
On [[Athenia]], [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]], [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] and [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] watch footage of Decepticon attacks on Earth, with Spike growing more and more enraged at the villains' continuous destruction of Earth's natural environment. He is about to contact Fortress to find out why the Autobots have not done something about this, but [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] stops him, pointing out that they can fight each other at any time, but that victory can only be won by finding out what Galvatron's true plan is. That part of the equation is concurrently being taken care of by Punch in the Decepticons' Earth base, where, as Counterpunch, he resorts to the most basic of espionage techniques—listening in on a conversation between Sixshot and Galvatron through an air vent. Aware of Scorponok's movements on Earth, Sixshot believes that the Headmaster leader is attempting to blow up Earth as he did [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] and [[Mars (planet)|Mars]] before it, in order to stop Galvatron's master plan. Galvatron finally reveals the true extent of his plan to Sixshot—he intends to fuse both himself and the Earth together, so that he may become a [[Unicron]]-like entity known as "[[Grand Galvatron]]". However, to accomplish this massive feat of engineering, he will require many powerful transformation components, particularly to safeguard the weakest spot on his body, his head. These parts, Galvatron explains, will be culled from the finest Decepticon warriors—with Sixshot being his number one choice for this "noble" sacrifice. Punch makes a beeline for Autobot City to report all he has learned, arriving just as Metroplex convinces Fortress to allow him to join in the attack on Scorponok in Alaska.

[[Image:HM25 Galvatron disappears.jpg|right|200px|thumb|One Galvatron, on the rocks.]]
At the [[Autobot Alaska Science Base|Autobot Science Base]] in [[Alaska]], Scorponok and the Decepticon Headmasters are planting another in a series of planet-destroying explosives when Sixshot arrives. Scorponok expects a conflict, but Sixshot explains that they may now consider him an ally—he is not willing to allow Galvatron to willingly sacrifice him for spare parts. Galvatron himself arrives seconds later, as Sixshot and Scorponok pantomime a struggle to distract Galvatron as the Autobot arrive on the scene. As Metroplex and Sixshot engage in an aerial battle, and Scorponok attacks Battleship Maximus, the four Headmasters surround Galvatron for their final battle with the Decepticon leader. Their fight takes them out of the chasm to a nearby ice field, where Galvatron hurls the four young Transformers into the icy waters. He is about to deliver the killing stroke to Chromedome when Punch arrives to inform the Headmasters that Galvatron's weak spot is his head. The quartet enters [[Head Formation]], bombarding Galvatron with blasts of their combined energy, but the formation is broken when Galvatron shoots [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] out of the sky. He retaliates by knocking Galvatron into the ocean, and rejoins the Head Formation; the Headmasters then collapse several icebergs on top of Galvatron, before putting an end to the villain with a colossal explosion. Sixshot and Scorponok retreat, as the Autobots look out over the icy sea—the final resting place of the Emperor of Destruction.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
{{{!}}border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background:transparent"
{{!}}-
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Brainstorm]] (22)
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (23)
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (24)
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] (25)
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (26)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] (27)
* [[Ramhorn (G1)|Ramhorn]] (28)
* [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]] (29)
* [[Rewind]] (30)
* [[Eject]] (31)
* [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] (32)
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Afterburner (G1)|Afterburner]] (33)
* [[Lightspeed (G1 Technobot)|Lightspeed]] (34)
* [[Scattershot (G1)|Scattershot]] (35)
* [[Nosecone (G1)|Nosecone]] (36)
* [[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] (37)
* [[Computron (G1)|Computron]] (38)
* [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]] (39)
* [[Punch (G1)|Punch/Counterpunch]] (43)
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (45)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (48)
{{!}}}
|c2=
{{{!}}border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background:transparent"
{{!}}-
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Breakdown (G1)|Breakdown]] (1)
* [[Wildrider (G1)|Wildrider]] (2)
* [[Dead End (G1)|Dead End]] (3)
* [[Drag Strip (G1)|Drag Strip]] (4)
* [[Rippersnapper (G1)|Rippersnapper]] (5)
* [[Sinnertwin (G1)|Sinnertwin]] (6)
* [[Hun-Gurrr]] (7)
* [[Blot (G1)|Blot]] (8)
* [[Cutthroat (G1)|Cutthroat]] (9)
* [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]] (10)
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] (11)
* [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]] (12)
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]] (13)
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] (14)
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Sixshot]] (15)
* [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] (16)
* [[Motormaster (G1)|Motormaster]] (17)
* [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] (18)
* [[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]] (19)
* [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] (20)
* [[Apeface]] (21)
* [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] (40)
* [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] (41)
* [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] (42)
* [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] (44)
* [[Weirdwolf]] (49)
* [[Skullcruncher]] (50)
* [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] (51)
{{!}}}
|c3=
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (46)
* [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]] (47)
}}

==Quotes==
{{note|The following quotes are from the [[Omni Productions]] dub.}}

"Well dun Sixshot very good WAHAHAHA!"
:—'''Galvatron''' is extremely happy with Sixshot's performance.

"This is Unicorn!"
:—'''Galvatron''' as he unveils the Grand Galvatron design.

"Darn, my dream is ruined! Come and help me somebody quicklyyyyyyahhhhhhhhhhhh!"
:—'''Galvatron'''<nowiki>'s</nowiki> last words.

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*When Twincast sends the Cassettes off to their work, his chest buttons are yellow some of the time instead of gray.
*Strafe and Afterburner appear to form a large amount of Computron's torso as well as his arms.
*As Brainstorm announces that MegaZarak's going to lead the attack on Earth, his lower forehead is grey instead of the same mustard color as the rest of his face.
*During his conversation with Metroplex shortly before they go to find the Decepticons, the bit beside Fortress's eye is white like his face instead of blue like his eyes as usual.
*When Metroplex first takes off after the Maximus, his helmet is white instead of black.
*In a couple of shots as Sixshot and Scorponok talk, the bottom rim of Weirdwolf's visor is grey instead of red.
*During the long-distance shot of the Headmasters standing on the ice shelf, Fortress is colored as Fortress Maximus and Blaster's torso is drawn as a yellow block.

===Continuity errors===
*When the Autobots are looking for Galvatron, they're flying over snow fields. Meanwhile he's in a rocky desert area and that's where they find him and start fighting. It remains rocky until Galvatron throws off the four Headmasters, and as he gloats that they're not a match for him, suddenly he's standing in front of a glacier. Then it switches to a scene with Twincast, and when we return to the fight with Galvatron, they're completely in a polar region.
*So, Galvatron can survive being at ''ground zero'' of an explosion powerful enough to ''blow up an entire planet'', and yet he can't dig his way out from under a few tons of ice? That's really screwed up, man.

===Continuity notes===
*Galvatron's master plan was first hinted at in "[[Fight to the Death on Planet Hive!!]]", and it was revealed that he planned to "incorporate the Earth into his system" in "[[Ultra Magnus Dies!!]]", but precisely what that entailed was not explained until this episode. The idea itself was a decent one (especially given Galvatron's desire to gain control of Unicron's power by subjugating him in ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''), but the visual execution was absolutely, ridiculously hilarious.
*Scorponok's desire for power was pretty obvious almost from the moment he appeared in the series, but his current plan for the destruction of Earth was begun in the previous episode.
*Head Formation continues to undergo new changes with each passing episode. This time, the Headmasters debut the ability to shoot their charged-up energy as destructive bolts.
*Galvatron will not be freed from his icy imprisonment until ''[[Transformers: Return of Convoy (franchise)|Return of Convoy]]'', when [[Dark Nova]] [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: The Battlestars (story page)|releases him and upgrades him into Super Megatron]].

===Foreign dubbing===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''The Final Demise of the King of Destruction'''"
:*''Original airdate:'' ???

:*''Title:'' "'''The Emperor of Destruction Vanishes on an Iceberg'''" ([[Shout! Factory]] sub)
::*The cold open of Sixshot rallying the Decepticons is removed.
::*Repeated references to the [[Pit]] and the Inferno are made.

===Trivia===
*This episode is one of only a small number to include an original animated sequence ''before'' the title card appears. Thus far, every copy of this episode released in the West omits this sequence, which consists of Sixshot rallying the Decepticons.
*[[Galvatron II]]'s end in [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel Generation 1 Comics]] somehow bears a little resemblance to Galvatron's final fate in this episode.
*The [[Omni Productions]] dub version of Galvatron's "death" scene is downright ''hilarious''.
*Galvatron's revelation that he's been eyeing up Sixshot's head is... ''interesting'' to say the least. It's not revealed which other Decepticons he's hoping to turn into 'volunteer' organ donors, which is perhaps something to be thankful for.
*Punch is the worst spy EVER. During his conversation with Galvatron he acts incredibly nervous, asks random questions that make no sense in the current context, and basically gives Galvatron a massive hint that he's a spy. It's alright though because Galvatron is apparently too stupid to notice this.
*When Sixshot knocks Twincast into the chasm, Steeljaw ''cries''. Real, watery tears. Not in a comedic anime fashion.
*Later on, there's another moment of [[humanization]] as we see Twincast has his eyelids shut when he's unconscious.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|omni}}
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1996 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2002 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' — DVD Box ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2005 — The Takara Collection Vol 1 — ''Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

{{DEFAULTSORT:Emperor of Destruction Vanishes on an Iceberg}}
[[Category:The Headmasters episodes]]

Battle for Defense of the False Planet

2012-04-27T16:55:41Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Headmasters
|ep=20
|image=Falseplanet.jpg
|caption=My balls are always bouncing/To the left and to the right...
|title="Battle for Defense of the False Planet"
|japanese=見せかけ星の攻防戦
|romaji=Misekake Hoshi no Kōbōsen
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[December 18|18 December]] 1987
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Akinori Ōrai]]
|animation studio=Toei
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''The Decepticons' newest target is the energy-rich Twin Star planetary system, but before the Autobots can come to its defense, the Headmasters are going to have to settle their own arguments first!'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:HM20 Chromedome Brainstorm disagreement.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
The Decepticons on [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] are on course for the [[Twin Star]] system, home of the diametrically-opposed planets Sperity and Toruin. Scorponok voices his opinion that time would be better spent contemplating Galvatron's "master plan", but Galvatron makes the point that they will require the vast energy of Sperity to complete it. Before long, Scorponok is in Sperity airspace and fending off attacks from the planet's defensive weaponry.

The Autobots on Battleship Maximus, meanwhile, are lagging behind their Decepticon quarry somewhat, and frayed tempers and the desire for a fight lead to an argument between [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] and [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] and the more relaxed [[Brainstorm]], who claims that the two hotheads never think with their heads or consider strategy in their fights. The fight is interrupted when the Twin Star system comes into view, and [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] explains the nature of the Sperity and Toruin. Fortress instructs [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] to take [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] and [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] to the barren Toruin to keep them out of harm's way, and Brainstorm decides to accompany them, which Chromedome immediately interprets as cowardice.

[[Image:HM20 Triple Master Kick.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
Down on the surface of Sperity, Scorponok lands, and the Decepticons pour out, beginning their search for energy. Before long, the Autobots arrive and a battle begins, which is observed by the Twin Star council, led by [[Dafuna]], convincing them to maintain an evacuation of the planet. The Headmasters take the opportunity to try out their new "Triple Jump" technique, powering up by exchanging heads, and then launching Chromedome, attached to Hardhead's [[transtector]], into the air to "Triple Master Kick" each of the Decepticon Headmasters.

[[Image:HM20 secret underground city.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
Meanwhile, the [[Trainbot]]s deposit Brainstorm, Daniel, Wheelie and Arcee on Toruin, and after a brief search, they find a cave to take refuge in. By and by, however, a strange little animal comes crawling by the cave mouth, which, on closer examination, appears to be a toy robot. They follow it to a tall rock, where they discover a young native, [[Clang]], and follow him down into the depths of the cave. There, behind a secret door, they discover a hidden city, to which all of the Twin Star inhabitants and their energy supplies have secretly been moved, via a cable tunnel connecting the planets. They are captured by Twin Star security and brought before a [[Twin Star commander|commander]]. The Autobots win the commander's trust and Brainstorm goes to inform the other Autobots of the Twin Starians' deception.

[[Image:HM20 found all the energon.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
As a result of this evacuation, Galvatron and the Decepticons have been unable to find any energy on Sperity, and Galvatron starts taking out his rage on Fortress when Brainstorm arrives with a message he has been given by Dafuna. After a further argument with his fellow Headmasters, Brainstorm gets them to repeatedly exchange heads with him, transplanting his own head from Transtector to Transtector so that he can reach the other side of the battlefield and deliver the message to Fortress. Now aware of the Twin Star government's plan for the planets, Fortress has the Autobots pull out as a siren sounds to signify the completion of the evacuation, at which point [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundblaster]] reports that he has discovered the energy at last—a puny stack of [[energon cube]]s that Galvatron kicks over in rage. Just then, the planet shudders as Toruin disconnects from the cable bridge and floats off into space. Unaware that the departing planet holds the energy he was seeking, infuriated that he has wasted so much time, and unwilling to be made a fool of any longer, Galvatron calls off the Decepticons and they leave.

On Toruin, the Autobots celebrate their victory, and Chromedome, Hardhead and Brainstorm make their peace before the team sets off in pursuit of the Decepticons once more.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (10)
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] (11)
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (12)
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (13)
* [[Brainstorm]] (14)
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (16)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (17)
* [[Shōki]] (18)
* [[Suiken]] (19)
* [[Getsuei]] (20)
* [[Seizan]] (21)
* [[Kaen]] (22)
* [[Yukikaze (Headmasters)|Yukikaze]] (23)
* [[Raiden]] (24)
* [[Computron (G1)|Computron]] (29)

|c2=
* [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] (1)
* [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] (2)
* [[Skullcruncher]] (3)
* [[Weirdwolf]] (4)
* [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] (5)
* [[Apeface]] (6)
* [[Sixshot]] (7)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundblaster]] (8)
* [[Predaking]] (27)
* [[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]] (28)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (30)
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] (31)
* [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] (32)

|c3=
* [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]] (9)

|c4=
* [[Dafuna]] (25)
* [[Twin Star commander]] (26)
* [[Clang]] (33)
}}

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*While Sixshot is navigating, Apeface's entire face, save for his visor, is colored purple.
*When Soundblaster is first shown, his forearm is missing its red stripe, and his hand is completely white.
*When Weirdwolf says he can see Twin Star, Skullcruncher joins him at the window, but he's also coloured like Weirdwolf.
*When Galvatron runs out of MegaZarak, he is missing his particle cannon.
*When Galvatron tells his troops to search for the energy, Soundblaster is colored like Soundwave.
*While Chromedome is wearing Highbrow's body (shortly after using it to kick the Decepticon Headmasters down one by one), his head is coloured like Highbrow's rather than his own.
*Later, when Brainstorm-the-head jumps from Hardhead's body to Chromedome's, when seen from behind, he's coloured like Hardhead.
*Then he takes that body inside to talk to Fortress, who has an Autobot insignia on his chest at first (as he usually does), then loses it when he's next in shot.
*When Brainstorm leaps over Galvatron's shot, his head is colored like Fortress' head.
*Hardhead's head is drawn as Highbrow's head when he detaches from Highbrow's body to swap heads back to his own body.
*When Soundblaster comes to tell Galvatron he's found the energy, most of the gray/white parts of his head are black. Then he goes inside, his chest panel is white instead of purple.
*Fortress' chest panel loses its symbol ''and'' its color during the farewell scene with the natives.

===Transformers references===
*This episode is the first to make reference to the "master plan" that Galvatron has for the energy that the Decepticons are gathering throughout this story arc. Precisely what the plan is will be revealed in "[[The Emperor of Destruction Vanishes on an Iceberg]]."
*This episode features the return of the Headmasters' "[[Head Formation|Cross-Head On]]" technique, with a twist. Instead of directly swapping heads, the Headmasters first link hands in small robot modes to pool their energies before connecting to each others' Transtectors. The narrator explains that by entering this "Power Up Formation," they triple their own individual energies (presumably because there are three of them). In particular, this bit of terminology foreshadows the "Head Formation" technique used a little later into the series, and is a key maneuver in the final episode.

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''The Attack on the Twin Planets'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

:*''Title:'' "'''Battle for Defense of the False Planet'''" ([[Shout! Factory]] sub), "'''Battle for Defence of the False Planet'''" (Shout! Factory menu)
::*In a holdover from the [[Metrodome]] subtitles, Dafuna is mangled into "Darthner".

'''Spanish'''
:*''Title:'' "'''Ataque al planeta Géminis'''" ("Attack on the Gemini Planet")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

===Trivia===
*This episode originally aired in Japan as part of a triple bill alongside "[[Find MegaZarak's Weak Spot!!]]" and "[[Head Formation of Friendship]]" on December 18th.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|omni}}
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1996 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2002 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' — DVD Box ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2005 — The Takara Collection Vol 1 — ''Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

[[Category:The Headmasters episodes]]

Daniel Faces His Biggest Crisis Ever!!

2012-04-25T19:27:36Z

RQ87-D2: /* Foreign localization */

{{episode
|series=Headmasters
|ep=18
|image=Danielcrisis.jpg
|caption=Star Blazers: The Next Generation
|title="Daniel Faces His Biggest Crisis Ever!!"
|japanese=ダニエル史上最大のピンチ!!
|romaji=Daniel Shijō Saidai no Pinch!!
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[December 4]], [[1987]]
|writer=[[Toyohiro Ando]]
|director=[[Takao Yoshizawa]]
|animation studio=Toei
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''Spike attempts to negotiate peace with Galvatron, but all is not as it seems as the Decepticons, now joined by the Horrorcons, plan their next evil scheme.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:HM18 meet the new guys.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
When the [[Decepticon]]s' early warning system on [[Chaar]] detects two unidentified robots entering the planet's atmosphere, the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] leap to the conclusion that the [[Autobot]]s have launched an attack on them. The Headmasters open fire on the two jet-mode robots, who land and transform into animal forms to battle the beast-mode Headmasters, but the battle is soon halted by [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]], who reveals that these two new robots are the [[Horrorcon]]s, [[Apeface]] and [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]], who he has summoned to bolster their forces.

Autobot double-agent [[Punch (G1)|Punch]] informs the Autobots on [[Athenia]] of the Horrorcons' arrival, and the Autobot Headmasters recall how, on planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], the two villains had been allies of [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] and had been exiled to space for the crimes they committed. In the midst of this discussion, [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] suddenly makes an announcement—he wishes to arrange to personally negotiate with Galvatron, in hopes that the Autobots and Decepticons can work together to develop a new energy generation program. Spike expresses to [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] his fear that further damage to the universe could be caused by the Decepticons' continued destruction of more planets, like [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] and [[Mars (planet)|Mars]] before them, but Fortress is unsure. When [[Shōki]] presents Fortress with tangible proof of that damage—noting that [[space bridge]] travel has already become unstable due to the disruption of the solar system's gravimetric balance caused by the loss of Mars—Fortress is convinced to allow Spike's plan.

[[Image:HM18 Spike receives response.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
A communication from the Autobots soon reaches Chaar, but Galvatron crumples it and tosses it away in utter disgust. Scorponok speaks up, however, suggesting that they use the Autobots' offer as a cover, using it to lure them into an attack, and Galvatron agrees. The response is sent back to Athenia, with one condition—that Spike bring [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] and [[Carly]] with him. Perturbed by the request, the Headmasters come along as guards, and the [[Trainbot]]s carry the group on an unpleasant, unsteady space bridge journey to Earth. They set down on [[Shangri-La Island]] in the South Pacific, where they are soon met by Galvatron, the Decepticon Headmasters and the Horrorcons. Galvatron reveals that either Carly and Daniel are to be held hostage by the Decepticons for the duration of the meeting as a safety measure, or the Decepticons will refuse negotiations. The pained Witwicky family agrees, and Galvatron warns the Headmasters not to interfere if they value the humans' lives.

[[Image:Hm18 negotiating with galvatron.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
Shortly, the talks between Spike and Galvatron begin, with Spike offering peaceful co-existence and a joint ownership of any new energy that their alliance will develop. Galvatron, on the other hand, insists on complete control of all energy, questioning Spike's allegedly neutral standing as an [[Human|earthling]] by pointing out that he lives with the Autobots on Athenia and demanding that he return to Earth to prove that he is unbiased. Spike cannot comply, as his energy research requires that he remain on Athenia, so Galvatron offers an alternative—as a show of good faith, Spike must leave the thing which is most precious to him on Earth... his son, Daniel. A tearful Daniel agrees to the request, and Carly decides to stay with him.

[[Image:HM18 Apeface vs trees.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
Back on Chaar, in his Counterpunch guise, Punch is gathered with the other Decepticons in their base, but receives a rude shock when the doors open and Galvatron, supposedly in negotiations on Earth, enters! Galvatron reveals his new plan to ransack other planets for their energy, and Punch immediately reports to Athenia that the negotiations are being used as a distraction to cover this scheme. The news is relayed to the Autobots on Earth, and, not wanting to tip their hand, the Autobots have Shōki and [[Yukikaze (Headmasters)|Yukikaze]] stage an impromptu sumo match to distract the Decepticons while the Headmasters sneak away. [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] bursts in on the meeting, and the "Galvatron" negotiating with Spike reveals his true identity—a disguised [[Sixshot]]! With [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] having already seen to the rescue of Daniel and Carly, a battle erupts, ending when Galvatron orders the Decepticons to return to Chaar. The villains escape via the Decepticon space bridge, but as he vanishes through it, Sixshot prevents the Autobots from following by triggering an explosion that tears the bridge apart. The explosion causes a chain reaction throughout the space bridge, which destroys the Autobot installations linking Earth and Athenia as well, leaving the Autobots stuck on Earth.

On Chaar, the Decepticon army boards Scorponok, and the giant craft takes off, setting course for other energy-rich plants while the Autobots are fractured and unable to immediately pursue. Some time later, Fortress arrives on Earth with Battleship Maximus and gathers a team of Autobots to join him in following the Decepticons' trail. Furious and emotional over having had his family manipulated by the Decepticons, Daniel requests that he be allowed to go on the mission, and Fortress and Spike permit it. Battleship Maximus blasts off, marking the beginning of a new stage in the Headmasters' battle!

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Punch (G1)|Punch/Counterpunch]] (8)
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] (9)
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (10)
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (11)
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (14)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (15)
* [[Brainstorm]] (16)
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (17)
* [[Yukikaze (Headmasters)|Yukikaze]] (18)
* [[Shōki]] (19)
* [[Suiken]] (20)
* [[Getsuei]] (21)
* [[Kaen]] (22)
* [[Seizan]] (23)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (30)
* [[Lightspeed (G1 Technobot)|Lightspeed]] (31)
* [[Afterburner (G1)|Afterburner]] (32)

|c2=
* [[Weirdwolf]] (1)
* [[Skullcruncher]] (2)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundblaster]] (3)
* [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] (4)
* [[Apeface]] (5)
* [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] (6)
* [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] (7)
* [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] (24)
* [[Rampage (G1)|Rampage]] (26)
* [[Sinnertwin (G1)|Sinnertwin]] (27)
* [[Rippersnapper (G1)|Rippersnapper]] (28)
* [[Sixshot]] (29)

|c3=
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (13)
* [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]] (14)
* [[Carly|Carly Witwicky]] (25)
}}

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*When the Autobots are studying the computer information on the Horrorcons, Fortress is colored like Fortress Maximus.
*When Scorponok proposes attacking the Autobots, Soundblaster is colored in the traditional blue of Soundwave.
*As the Autobot Headmasters react to the Decepticons landing on Earth, Brainstorm's chest is white instead of dark blue. The same error occurs later when Chromedone's team receives the news that Galvatron is a fake.
*The very last shot of Fortress has him missing his chest Autobot insignia.

===Continuity notes===
*Cybertron was destroyed in "[[Cybertron Is in Grave Danger, Part 2]]".
*Mars met its end in "[[Explosion on Mars!! MegaZarak Appears]]".
*As ''The Headmasters'' crosses the halfway-point, this episode marks the beginning of a new story arc for the series. Running for the next half-dozen or so episodes, the Decepticons travel from planet to planet gathering energy for Galvatron's new, mysterious master plan, culminating in "[[The Emperor of Destruction Vanishes on an Iceberg]]".

===Foreign localization===
'''English
:*''Title:'' "'''Danny, the Little Hero'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
::*Mindwipe notes that the Horrorcons wear the Autobot symbol.
::*In the [[Omni Productions]] dialogue script for this episode, Apeface is called "Sela", Snapdragon is referred to as "Wimpus" whilst Punch/Counterpunch is "Carter".

:*''Title:'' "'''Daniel Faces His Biggest Crisis Ever'''" ([[Shout! Factory]] sub)

'''Spanish'''
:*''Spanish:'' "'''La Trampa de Galvatrón'''" ("Galvatron's Trap")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
::*The Spanish translation of the ''Headmasters'' cartoon presents some problems with Snapdragon's name. On Snapdragon's first appearance, Galvatron himself calls him "Zela". (However, it's a bit hard to understand Galvatron; if you don't listen carefully, it sounds like he says "Zedda", which has caused further confusion.) Then Snapdragon presents himself as "Ozela", after which both the narrator and Chromedome call him "Zela". Later, Hardhead calls him "Zedda", and finally, Galvatron calls him "Zela" again. This would seem to make "Zela" his official name, since it's used the most frequently.
::*Also, in the Spanish dub, Mindwipe mentions both Horrorcons have the Autobot symbol, just as the Horrorcons' Decepticon symbols shine.

===Trivia===
*Jaar, the Japanese name of [[Chaar]], is [[Romanization|romanized]] in this episode as "Jarl".
*This episode is also known by the title "The Most Important Thing in the World". This title originates with the ancient list of ''The Headmasters'' episodes that has been on the Internet since man rode around on dinosaurs, but precisely ''how'' it came to be called this is a mystery that will likely never be solved, because, although it's perfectly appropriate as a title for the episode, it is not even ''close'' to the actual translation. Frustratingly, because this oh-so-old episode list was the basis for most online ''The Headmasters'' episode guides, this is the actually the title that the episode is most frequently known by!

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|omni}}
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1996 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2002 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' — DVD Box ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2005 — The Takara Collection Vol 1 — ''Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

[[Category:The Headmasters episodes]]

Daniel Faces His Biggest Crisis Ever!!

2012-04-25T19:09:58Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Headmasters
|ep=18
|image=Danielcrisis.jpg
|caption=Star Blazers: The Next Generation
|title="Daniel Faces His Biggest Crisis Ever!!"
|japanese=ダニエル史上最大のピンチ!!
|romaji=Daniel Shijō Saidai no Pinch!!
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|airdate=[[December 4]], [[1987]]
|writer=[[Toyohiro Ando]]
|director=[[Takao Yoshizawa]]
|animation studio=Toei
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''Spike attempts to negotiate peace with Galvatron, but all is not as it seems as the Decepticons, now joined by the Horrorcons, plan their next evil scheme.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:HM18 meet the new guys.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
When the [[Decepticon]]s' early warning system on [[Chaar]] detects two unidentified robots entering the planet's atmosphere, the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] leap to the conclusion that the [[Autobot]]s have launched an attack on them. The Headmasters open fire on the two jet-mode robots, who land and transform into animal forms to battle the beast-mode Headmasters, but the battle is soon halted by [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]], who reveals that these two new robots are the [[Horrorcon]]s, [[Apeface]] and [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]], who he has summoned to bolster their forces.

Autobot double-agent [[Punch (G1)|Punch]] informs the Autobots on [[Athenia]] of the Horrorcons' arrival, and the Autobot Headmasters recall how, on planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], the two villains had been allies of [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] and had been exiled to space for the crimes they committed. In the midst of this discussion, [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] suddenly makes an announcement—he wishes to arrange to personally negotiate with Galvatron, in hopes that the Autobots and Decepticons can work together to develop a new energy generation program. Spike expresses to [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] his fear that further damage to the universe could be caused by the Decepticons' continued destruction of more planets, like [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] and [[Mars (planet)|Mars]] before them, but Fortress is unsure. When [[Shōki]] presents Fortress with tangible proof of that damage—noting that [[space bridge]] travel has already become unstable due to the disruption of the solar system's gravimetric balance caused by the loss of Mars—Fortress is convinced to allow Spike's plan.

[[Image:HM18 Spike receives response.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
A communication from the Autobots soon reaches Chaar, but Galvatron crumples it and tosses it away in utter disgust. Scorponok speaks up, however, suggesting that they use the Autobots' offer as a cover, using it to lure them into an attack, and Galvatron agrees. The response is sent back to Athenia, with one condition—that Spike bring [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] and [[Carly]] with him. Perturbed by the request, the Headmasters come along as guards, and the [[Trainbot]]s carry the group on an unpleasant, unsteady space bridge journey to Earth. They set down on [[Shangri-La Island]] in the South Pacific, where they are soon met by Galvatron, the Decepticon Headmasters and the Horrorcons. Galvatron reveals that either Carly and Daniel are to be held hostage by the Decepticons for the duration of the meeting as a safety measure, or the Decepticons will refuse negotiations. The pained Witwicky family agrees, and Galvatron warns the Headmasters not to interfere if they value the humans' lives.

[[Image:Hm18 negotiating with galvatron.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]
Shortly, the talks between Spike and Galvatron begin, with Spike offering peaceful co-existence and a joint ownership of any new energy that their alliance will develop. Galvatron, on the other hand, insists on complete control of all energy, questioning Spike's allegedly neutral standing as an [[Human|earthling]] by pointing out that he lives with the Autobots on Athenia and demanding that he return to Earth to prove that he is unbiased. Spike cannot comply, as his energy research requires that he remain on Athenia, so Galvatron offers an alternative—as a show of good faith, Spike must leave the thing which is most precious to him on Earth... his son, Daniel. A tearful Daniel agrees to the request, and Carly decides to stay with him.

[[Image:HM18 Apeface vs trees.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
Back on Chaar, in his Counterpunch guise, Punch is gathered with the other Decepticons in their base, but receives a rude shock when the doors open and Galvatron, supposedly in negotiations on Earth, enters! Galvatron reveals his new plan to ransack other planets for their energy, and Punch immediately reports to Athenia that the negotiations are being used as a distraction to cover this scheme. The news is relayed to the Autobots on Earth, and, not wanting to tip their hand, the Autobots have Shōki and [[Yukikaze (Headmasters)|Yukikaze]] stage an impromptu sumo match to distract the Decepticons while the Headmasters sneak away. [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] bursts in on the meeting, and the "Galvatron" negotiating with Spike reveals his true identity—a disguised [[Sixshot]]! With [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] having already seen to the rescue of Daniel and Carly, a battle erupts, ending when Galvatron orders the Decepticons to return to Chaar. The villains escape via the Decepticon space bridge, but as he vanishes through it, Sixshot prevents the Autobots from following by triggering an explosion that tears the bridge apart. The explosion causes a chain reaction throughout the space bridge, which destroys the Autobot installations linking Earth and Athenia as well, leaving the Autobots stuck on Earth.

On Chaar, the Decepticon army boards Scorponok, and the giant craft takes off, setting course for other energy-rich plants while the Autobots are fractured and unable to immediately pursue. Some time later, Fortress arrives on Earth with Battleship Maximus and gathers a team of Autobots to join him in following the Decepticons' trail. Furious and emotional over having had his family manipulated by the Decepticons, Daniel requests that he be allowed to go on the mission, and Fortress and Spike permit it. Battleship Maximus blasts off, marking the beginning of a new stage in the Headmasters' battle!

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Punch (G1)|Punch/Counterpunch]] (8)
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] (9)
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (10)
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (11)
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (14)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (15)
* [[Brainstorm]] (16)
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (17)
* [[Yukikaze (Headmasters)|Yukikaze]] (18)
* [[Shōki]] (19)
* [[Suiken]] (20)
* [[Getsuei]] (21)
* [[Kaen]] (22)
* [[Seizan]] (23)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (30)
* [[Lightspeed (G1 Technobot)|Lightspeed]] (31)
* [[Afterburner (G1)|Afterburner]] (32)

|c2=
* [[Weirdwolf]] (1)
* [[Skullcruncher]] (2)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundblaster]] (3)
* [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] (4)
* [[Apeface]] (5)
* [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] (6)
* [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] (7)
* [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] (24)
* [[Rampage (G1)|Rampage]] (26)
* [[Sinnertwin (G1)|Sinnertwin]] (27)
* [[Rippersnapper (G1)|Rippersnapper]] (28)
* [[Sixshot]] (29)

|c3=
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (13)
* [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]] (14)
* [[Carly|Carly Witwicky]] (25)
}}

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
*When the Autobots are studying the computer information on the Horrorcons, Fortress is colored like Fortress Maximus.
*When Scorponok proposes attacking the Autobots, Soundblaster is colored in the traditional blue of Soundwave.
*As the Autobot Headmasters react to the Decepticons landing on Earth, Brainstorm's chest is white instead of dark blue. The same error occurs later when Chromedone's team receives the news that Galvatron is a fake.
*The very last shot of Fortress has him missing his chest Autobot insignia.

===Continuity notes===
*Cybertron was destroyed in "[[Cybertron Is in Grave Danger, Part 2]]".
*Mars met its end in "[[Explosion on Mars!! MegaZarak Appears]]".
*As ''The Headmasters'' crosses the halfway-point, this episode marks the beginning of a new story arc for the series. Running for the next half-dozen or so episodes, the Decepticons travel from planet to planet gathering energy for Galvatron's new, mysterious master plan, culminating in "[[The Emperor of Destruction Vanishes on an Iceberg]]".

===Foreign localization===
'''English
:*''Title:'' "'''Danny, the Little Hero'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
::*Mindwipe notes that the Horrorcons wear the Autobot symbol.

:*''Title:'' "'''Daniel Faces His Biggest Crisis Ever'''" ([[Shout! Factory]] sub)

'''Spanish'''
:*''Spanish:'' "'''La Trampa de Galvatrón'''" ("Galvatron's Trap")
:*''Original airdate:'' ?
::*The Spanish translation of the ''Headmasters'' cartoon presents some problems with Snapdragon's name. On Snapdragon's first appearance, Galvatron himself calls him "Zela". (However, it's a bit hard to understand Galvatron; if you don't listen carefully, it sounds like he says "Zedda", which has caused further confusion.) Then Snapdragon presents himself as "Ozela", after which both the narrator and Chromedome call him "Zela". Later, Hardhead calls him "Zedda", and finally, Galvatron calls him "Zela" again. This would seem to make "Zela" his official name, since it's used the most frequently.
::*Also, in the Spanish dub, Mindwipe mentions both Horrorcons have the Autobot symbol, just as the Horrorcons' Decepticon symbols shine.

===Trivia===
*Jaar, the Japanese name of [[Chaar]], is [[Romanization|romanized]] in this episode as "Jarl".
*This episode is also known by the title "The Most Important Thing in the World". This title originates with the ancient list of ''The Headmasters'' episodes that has been on the Internet since man rode around on dinosaurs, but precisely ''how'' it came to be called this is a mystery that will likely never be solved, because, although it's perfectly appropriate as a title for the episode, it is not even ''close'' to the actual translation. Frustratingly, because this oh-so-old episode list was the basis for most online ''The Headmasters'' episode guides, this is the actually the title that the episode is most frequently known by!

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|omni}}
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1996 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2002 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' — DVD Box ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2005 — The Takara Collection Vol 1 — ''Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

[[Category:The Headmasters episodes]]

SOS from Planet Sandra

2012-04-24T17:51:10Z

RQ87-D2: /* Animation and technical errors */

{{episode
|series=Headmasters
|ep=17
|image=SandaSOS.jpg
|caption=FLASH!!!! AHHHHH-AHHHHH!!!!!
|title="SOS from Planet Sandra"
|japanese=惑星サンドラSOS
|romaji=Wakusei Sandra SOS
|airdate=[[November 27]], [[1987]]
|production code=
|production company=[[TakaraTomy|Takara]], [[Toei]]
|writer=[[Yoshihisa Araki]]
|director=[[Katsutoshi Sasaki]]
|animation studio=Toei
|continuity=[[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]]
}}
'''The Autobots respond when an emergency request for energy comes from the other-dimensional planet Sandra.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Image:HM17 Fortress Sandra diagram.jpg|thumb|left|200px|"Gentlemen, we get signal."]]
On [[Chaar]], [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] pick up an SOS signal from the planet [[Sandra (planet)|Sandra]], asking for help in replenishing their dwindling energy reserves. They bring it to [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]]'s attention, but [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] dismisses it out of hand, preferring that they not get involved in interplanetary affairs. Galvatron agrees, but dispatches [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] to find out whether or not the [[Autobot]]s have also picked up the SOS.

[[Image:HM17 Daniel and Wheelie have fun with hoses.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
On [[Athenia]], Galvatron's suspicions prove correct—the Autobots have indeed received Sandra's SOS, and [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] maps the location of the planet, which exists in a parallel dimension, in that universe's version of [[Earth]]'s solar system. The Autobots debate the virtues of aiding Sandra, with [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]] unsure if it is wise to sacrifice any of their own limited energy supply. Eventually, after Fortress receives a report from [[Punch (G1)|Punch]] that the Decepticons have received but ignored the SOS, they decide to ship the minimum amount of [[energon cube]]s that they can spare directly from Earth, rather than from Athenia's stockpile. [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel]] and [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] request that they be allowed to go too, and are permitted. The whole affair, however, has been witnessed by Ratbat, who informs Galvatron of the Autobots' plan of action. Proclaiming that all of Earth's energy belongs to the Decepticons, Galvatron prepares to stop the Autobots from sending any to Sandra.

A short time later, on Earth, Galvatron co-ordinates the Decepticon forces with [[Sixshot]] while [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] oversees the [[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobots]] and [[Technobot (G1)|Technobots]] as they load energon cubes onto the [[Trainbot]]s. [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] arrives to inform them that Galvatron has arrived on Earth, but the warning comes too late, as Galvatron, the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] and the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] swoop down out of the sky and open fire. The Trainbots try to make a break for it as the combiners and leaders brawl, but Sixshot shoots them out of the sky.

[[Image:HM17 Chromedone Hardhead fly to green ship.jpg|thumb|left|200px|"Wait, when did we get this green spaceship?"]]
News of the attack reaches Athenia, and Fortress and Spike make the difficult decision to send Athenia's own energy on to Sandra while the Decepticons' attention is on Earth. Battleship Maximus takes off from Athenia with the energy on board, but Galvatron is quick to realise the deception and sends Scorponok, kept on standby on Chaar for just such an occasion, after the Autobots. When the battle erupts, Fortress has Wheelie, Spike and Daniel board a small shuttle, intending for them to sneak away conflict to deliver the energy while the villains are busy. [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] and [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] disconnect from their [[transtector]]s and join the team, boarding the shuttle in their small robot forms, and the group travels through the dimensional rift to Sandra and successfully delivers the energon cubes.[[Image:HM17 Sandra building explodes.jpg|thumb|right|200px|"Uh, hey, that building that just exploded was our energy research lab."]] Daniel and Spike, in particular, are dismayed to see what a wasteland Sandra has become as a result of their diminished energy; the group is met by a trio of Sandra representatives, who explain that the planet's civilization foolishly expended their natural resources, believing them to be unlimited. They also reveal that they are only a few years away from developing new sources of energy, but that their remaining supplies will run out before then, hence the SOS. This affirms Spike's belief that he made the right choice in agreeing to help them, but just then, Fortress Maximus appears in the sky, with Scorponok hot on his tail. While the two giants fight, Chromedome and Hardhead use their diminutive stature to sneak explosives onto Scorponok, which explode and badly damage the Decepticon. Recombining with their transtectors, they join in fighting the other Decepticons, forcing them to retreat.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters|c1=
{{{!}}border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background:transparent"
{{!}}-
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Brainstorm]] (6)
* [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (8)
* [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] (9)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (10)
* [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] (12)
* [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]] (14)
* [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]] (15)
* [[Punch (G1)|Punch/Counterpunch]] (16)
* [[Shōki]] (19)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (20)
* [[Kaen]] (21)
* [[Scattershot (G1)|Scattershot]] (22)
* [[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Spot]] (23)
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] (24)
* [[Nosecone (G1)|Nosecone]] (25)
* [[Suiken]] (26)
* [[Blades (G1)|Blades]] (27)
* [[Streetwise (G1)|Streetwise]] (28)
* [[Blaster (G1)|Twincast]] (29)
* [[Afterburner (G1)|Afterburner]] (36)
* [[Lightspeed (G1 Technobot)|Lightspeed]] (37)
* [[Computron (G1)|Computron]] (38)
* [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]] (40)
* [[Getsuei]] (41)
* [[Seizan]] (42)
* [[Yukikaze (Headmasters)|Yukikaze]] (43)
{{!}}}
|c2=
{{{!}}border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background:transparent"
{{!}}-
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] (1)
* [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] (2)
* [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] (3)
* [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] (4)
* [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] (5)
* [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]] (17)
* [[Sixshot]] (18)
* [[Sinnertwin (G1)|Sinnertwin]] (30)
* [[Cutthroat (G1)|Cutthroat]] (31)
{{!}}style="background:transparent; border-right: 0px" valign="top"{{!}}
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]] (32)
* [[Hun-Gurrr]] (33)
* [[Rippersnapper (G1)|Rippersnapper]] (34)
* [[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]] (35)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (39)
* [[Weirdwolf]] (44)
* [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] (45)
* [[Skullcruncher]] (46)
{{!}}}
|c3=
* [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]] (7)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (11)
* [[Carly|Carly Witwicky]] (13)
}}

==Notes==
===Animation and technical errors===
[[Image:HM17 stereo Twincasts.jpg|thumb|right|200px|''Twin''cast.]]
*As Twincast runs up to Ultra Magnus, guess who's already standing behind him? It's Twincast!
*When the Decepticons attack the Autobots on Earth, Brawl appears to have been included in place of [[Blot (G1)|Blot]], since all the other Terrorcons appear, and none of the other [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]] do.
*When Battleship Maximus heads through the dimensional rift, the small shuttle Chromedome and the others blasted off in moments earlier can still be seen on the back of it.
*Carly is shown instead of Daniel during the group shots of the Autobots waving near the end.

===Continuity notes===
*Punch's double-agent status was established in "[[Return of the Immortal Emperor]]". Despite being a bit of a doof when backed into a corner, Punch continues to be quite effective and important for much the story arc that is about to begin.

===Foreign localization===
'''English'''
:*''Title:'' "'''An SOS from a Lost Planet'''" ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
:*''Original airdate:'' ?

:*''Title:'' "'''SOS from Planet Sandra'''" ([[Shout! Factory]] sub)
::*As is expected at this point, the [[Mini-Cassette]]s are called "Deployers".
::*"Sparks" is used in place of "lives" at one point.

===Trivia===
*When voicing his opinion on the Sandra situation, Scorponok speaks "through" his city-mode transtector for the first time as an echoing, disembodied voice. Up to this point, all of Scorponok's interaction with his fellow Decepticons has been done while in his small robot form, but this is the beginning of a trend that continues throughout the upcoming story arc, where the small robot does not appear on-screen (apart from in transformation sequences), and the character is simply treated as a giant, transforming spaceship. This comes at the same point in time that his role in the series is reduced to simply ferrying the Decepticons from planet to planet and fighting Fortress Maximus a bit, so perhaps it was done to make this a bit more palatable. Once this story ends, though, the small robot returns to the fore to carry on with his own plans.
*This episode is the first to depict any of the Headmasters besides Scorponok or Fortress as spending time apart from their transtectors. Chromedome and Hardhead even use their small robots to tactical advantage.
*Although it may be due to translation inconsistencies, Planet Sandra wavers between being simply an Earth-like planet in a 'parallel solar system' to a full blown alternate reality version of Earth. If the latter is the correct interpretation, the Autobots seem exceedingly casual about travelling into ''an entirely different reality''. They're more bothered about giving away their precious, precious energy.

==Home video releases==
{{homevidnote|omni}}
;Laserdisc
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 1996 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' Set ([[TakaraTomy|Takara]]) — Japanese audio only.
;DVD
[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] 2002 — ''Transformers: The Headmasters'' — DVD Box ([[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Pioneer LDC]]) — Japanese audio only. 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2005 — The Takara Collection Vol 1 — ''Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Metrodome]]) 
[[Image:Flag of UK.png|20px|United Kingdom]] 2007 — ''Transformers'' — The Complete Takara Collection (Metrodome) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2007 — ''The Transformers: Headmasters'' ([[Madman Entertainment]]) 
[[Image:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] 2009 — ''The Transformers: Japan Generation 1'' — Complete Collection (Madman Entertainment)

{{DEFAULTSORT:Sos from Planet Sandra}}
[[Category:The Headmasters episodes]]