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The Transformers Sticker Book (St. Michael)

2026-05-12T17:30:07Z

Velvet Android:

{{comicstory|seriesissue=The Transformers Sticker Book
|title=
|image=StMichaelTFStickerBook.jpg
|caption=
|publisher=[[Macdonald & Co]] (Publishers) Ltd, exclusively for Marks & Spencer
|imprint=[[St. Michael]] Activity
|date=1987
|writer=[[Jon Sutherland]] & [[Simon Farrell]]
|illustrator=[[Alan Craddock]] (interior drawings and cover painting)
|pagecount=26
|ISBN=ISBN 0 361 07867 6
}}

'''The Autobots need your help!'''

'''Fate has sent [[you]] hurtling through space into another time and place – the desolate planet of Barrenikon. There you find Ultra Magnus and some of his fellow heroes stranded after an intergalactic battle with the Evil Decepticons. Only ''you'' can help them defeat the Decepticons and escape from Barrenikon's gravitational field. Succeed, and the Autobots will remain eternally grateful. Fail, and you and they will remain stranded in a forgotten world forever...'''

A [[multipath adventure]] book, illustrated throughout in black-and-white, but also including several shiny pages with full-colour scenes and a sheet of 27 reusable colour stickers of Transformers to place in those scenes.

==Synopsis==
{{note|Before beginning the adventure, [[you]] must determine your "strength" and "weaknesses" as they influence the outcome of the story. There are three statistics that must be taken into account: "strength," "speed," and "intelligence." There are three variations on each statistic, one "high" skill, one "medium" skill and one "low" skill. You are only allowed one of each, to distribute amongst the three statistics. For example, if you make yourself "strong" with "average" speed, you must give yourself "low" intelligence, as they correspond to one "high" skill, one "medium" skill and one "low" skill respectively.}}

<center>
{|border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" align="center" class="wikitable"
|-
! 
!style="width:7em"|Strength
!style="width:7em"|Speed
!style="width:7em"|Intelligence
|-
!High
|Strong
|Fast
|High
|-
!Medium
|Ordinary
|Average
|Average
|-
!Low
|Weak
|Slow
|Low
|}
</center>

{{anchor|Page 1}}'''(PAGE_1)''' As you pass by a cave on your bicycle route, you notice something strange about it; a shimmering mist conceals its interior from your view. Leaving behind your bicycle, you decide to explore the cavern. Once inside, you find yourself unable to see anything. You trip and find yourself tumbling through space and time, hurtling towards a pale rocky planet. You close your eyes and land with a thump. When you look about once more, you find yourself emerging from a different cave, with five great robots surrounding the cave’s mouth. {{anchor|Page 2}}'''(PAGE_2)''' The robots introduce themselves as [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]], [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]], [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]], [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] and [[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]]. After you confess that you are unsure as to how you’ve arrived on this planet, the Autobots explain that they are themselves stranded. Their alien spaceship crashed here, on planet [[Barrenikon]], while they were on the lookout for other Autobots after a battle with the Decepticons. They need to find spare parts, or a new ship, if they have any hope of becoming space-bound once more. Though their current ship can fly, it will not bear the strain of inter-planetary travel. You agree to join the Autobots’ group.

'''''Start looking for a civilization to fix the ship?'' (>>[[#Page 5 (Missile)|PAGE_5_(missile icon)]]>>)'''

'''''Search for another spaceship instead?'' (>>[[#Page 9 (Star)|PAGE_9_(star icon)]]>>)'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 2|PAGE_2]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots look for a civilization...'' {{anchor|Page 5 (Missile)}}(>>PAGE_5_(missile icon)>>)''' splitting up to better find clues to any intelligent native life. After several minutes, they regroup on your position. Ratchet informs the group that he has found a trail which leads northwards.

: '''''Do you have High Intelligence?'' (>>[[#Page 10 (Missile)|PAGE_10_(missile icon)]]>>)'''

:'''''Do you have Medium and Low Intelligence?'' (>>[[#Page 13 (Meteor)|PAGE_13_(meteor icon)]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 5 (Missile)|PAGE_5_(missile icon)]]<<)''' '''''Ratchet shows you the road...'' {{anchor|Page 10 (Missile)}}(>>PAGE_10_(missile icon)>>)''' and you notice that there has not been travel on it for centuries. You tell the Autobots the trail will most likely only lead your group to some old ruins. Your group once more explores the immediate area in the hopes of finding anything of interest. The grass beneath your feet soon gives way to sand dunes. Sandstorm calls you over to look at a strange path scorched into the sand. The two of you quickly conclude that the tracks were likely made by a ship crashing down onto the planet’s surface. You hurry to inform the rest of the group. {{anchor|Page 9 (Missile)}}'''(PAGE_9_(missile icon))''' Ultra Magnus agrees to follow the tracks, in the hopes that the downed ship might contain the spare parts they need to fix their own. The Autobots follow the tracks, only to find them to suddenly stop. Ultra Magnus realizes that they were following the tracks in the wrong direction; this is where the ship first touched down. Before the group turns around, Ultra Magnus catches a glimpse of something reflective in the distance. Springer hops over to investigate, and shortly returns. He informs the group that there are Decepticons nearby, at least five of them. '''(>>[[#Page 15 (Moon)|PAGE_15_(moon icon)]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 9 (Missile)|PAGE_9_(missile icon)]]_OR_[[#Page 5 (Moon)|PAGE_5_(moon icon)]]<<)''' {{anchor|Page 15 (Moon)}}'''(PAGE_15_(moon icon))''' The Autobots transform into their vehicle modes and attempt to put some distance between themselves and the Decepticons. You get a ride inside of Hot Rod. But the Decepticons give chase, and a helicopter Decepticon proves himself fast enough to catch up to the Autobots. He doesn’t dare attack alone, however, after Ultra Magnus sends a few missiles in his direction. As the Autobots continue to drive, Hot Rod informs you that the five Decepticons are [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]], [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]], [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]], [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]], and [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]], a group known as the "[[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]]." He further informs you that the five of them can combine together to form the powerful but slow [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]]. The Autobots race past their own crashed ship, and towards the west. After a half hour of this high-speed chase, you approach and Ultra Magnus spot something in the distance; the wreck of a downed ship. Unwilling to pass up the chance to search the ship for spare parts, Ultra Magnus orders his Autobots to go into battle formation; they will hold their ground here. '''(>>[[#Page 2 (Star)|PAGE_3_(star icon)]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 15 (Moon)|PAGE_15_(moon icon)]]_OR_[[#Page 18 (Meteor)|PAGE_18_(meteor icon)<<)'''{{anchor|Page 2 (Star)}}'''(PAGE_2_(star icon))''' As the Autobots prepare themselves for combat, you look about for a place to hide. You settle on throwing yourself behind a nearby sand dune. The Autobots manage to drive off their enemies, and the Combaticons retreat. Ultra Magnus warns his squad that they will soon be back with reinforcements, however. {{anchor|Page 6 (Star)}}'''(PAGE_6_(star icon))''' You rejoin the Autobots, who busy themselves looking over the crashed ship. After a little while, Ratchet announces that nearly all of the parts they need are here. The only thing missing is a power pack, as their own is low on energy. Without extra power, the Autobots cannot break free of Barrenikon’s gravitational pull. Springer is sent out to scout for the Decepticons’ camp while the rest of the Autobots work towards fixing their own ship. Springer soon reports back, and informs Ultra Magnus that the Decepticon camp is some twenty miles to the north of their position. Ultra Magnus considers two different possible options;

:: '''''Stay with the ship and hope for a rescue?'' (>>[[#Page 3 (Missile)|PAGE_3_(missile icon)]]>>)'''

::'''''Preemptively attack the Decepticons' camp?'' (>>[[#Page 7 (star)|PAGE_7_(star icon)]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 6 (Star)|PAGE_6_(star icon)]]<<)''' '''''Ultra Magnus decides to stay at the ship and hope for a rescue.'' {{anchor|Page 3 (Missile)}}(>>PAGE_3_(missile icon)>>)''' As he announces his decision, there is a distant boom and swishing sound, that Hot Rod recognizes as the Decepticons’ ship taking off. Overhead, the faint shape of a ship is seen flying off into deep space. It seems that the Autobots wounded the Decepticons more than they initially thought. The Decepticons retreated instead of continuing their assault. Ultra Magnus explains that though he and his troops are stranded on the planet until someone finds them, you need not stay on Barrenikon as you can likely find your way back home by entering the cave from where you emerged.

:::'''''Enter the vortex through a cave.'' (>>[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 3 (Missile)|PAGE_3_(missile icon)]]_OR_[[#Page 18 (Moon)|PAGE_18_(moon icon)]]<<)''' '''''THE VORTEX'' {{anchor|Page 17}}(>>PAGE_17>>)''' [THE VORTEX is an illustrated maze within the book. Depending on which cave you choose to enter, you are led to a different page.]

::::'''''CAVE A (In the East, North of the swamp)'' (>>[[#Page 6 (Missile)|PAGE_6_(missile icon)]]>>)'''

::::'''''CAVE B (In the North, beyond the old abandoned crashed ship)'' (>>[[#Page 19 (Moon)|PAGE_19_(moon icon)]]>>)'''

::::'''''CAVE C (In the West, deep in the desert)'' (>>[[#Page 5 (Star)|PAGE_5_(star icon)]]>>)'''

::::'''''CAVE D (In the South, overlooking the Autobots’ crashed ship)'' (>>[[#Page 15 (Meteor)|PAGE_15_(meteor icon)]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''You enter CAVE A.'' {{anchor|Page 6 (Missile)}}(>>PAGE_6_(missile icon)>>)''' When you reemerge, you find yourself before an unfamiliar landscape. You chose the wrong cave! You return through the VORTEX to restart your adventure. '''(>>[[#Page 1|PAGE_1]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''You enter CAVE B.'' {{anchor|Page 19 (Moon)}}(>>PAGE_19_(moon icon)>>)''' As you walk towards the back of the cave, your surroundings become darker and darker. Your suddenly feel yourself spinning down into nothingness. In your last moments, you realize that you are being sucked into a black hole.

:::::'''''THE END'''''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''You enter CAVE C.'' {{anchor|Page 5 (Star)}}(>>PAGE_5_(star icon)>>)''' You stumble out of the cave. Though you have found your way back to your planet, you have missed your target by one hundred million years; the Earth you have arrived on is still under the rule of the Dinosaurs! You return through the vortex to restart your adventure. '''(>>[[#Page 1|PAGE_1]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''You enter CAVE D.'' {{anchor|Page 15 (Meteor)}}(>>PAGE_15_(meteor icon)>>)''' When you reemerge, finding yourself safely back home, and with the knowledge that you helped save your new Autobot friends.

:::::'''''THE END'''''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 6 (Star)|PAGE_6_(star icon)]]<<)''' '''''Ultra Magnus decides to attack the Decepticon camp.'' {{anchor|Page 7 (Star)}}(>>PAGE_7_(star icon)>>)''' He suggests that they might be able to steal the Decepticons’ power pack, and with it, the Autobots would be able to leave the planet’s gravitational pull. Though at first, Ultra Magnus wants to leave you behind, you convince him that you may come in useful due to your small size. When your group happens upon the Decepticon ship, you sneak in through its back door, close to the ship’s generators. Within the ship, Swindle happens upon your group and raises the alarm before anyone can stop him. The rest of the Decepticons arrive to battle the Autobots, and force them back, room after room. As you run ahead of your group, you spot what you think looks like a power pack. But it is on the far side of the room, much closer to the Decepticons than the Autobots.

::: '''''Is your Speed Fast or Average?'' (>>[[#Page 16 (Moon)|PAGE_16_(moon icon)]]>>)'''

:::'''''Is your Speed Slow?'' (>>[[#Page 11 (Meteor)|PAGE_11_(meteor icon)]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 7 (Star)|PAGE_7_(star icon)]]<<)''' '''''You make a run for the Power Pack...'' {{anchor|Page 16 (Moon)}}(>>PAGE_16_(moon icon)>>)''' knowing full well that without it, the Autobots have no hope of escaping Barrenikon. Once you have reached the power pack, you quickly check to make sure that no one has noticed you, before grabbing it and making your way back to the Autobots. Hot Rod spots you coming towards him, and when he notices what you are carrying, he shifts his position so that you are blocked from the Decepticons’ view. You run out of the ship, and after about a mile of running, collapse in the desert sand from exhaustion while the Autobots cover your retreat. Ratchet soon breaks off from the others, and drives over to you. He informs you that the power pack is the only one the Decepticons have, and if the Autobots manage to make it off planet with it, they will leave the Decepticons unable to pursue them off-planet. Ratchet drives you back to the Autobot ship, where he installs the power pack. You then both fly over to the battlefield, and pick up the rest of the group, before taking off, leaving the Decepticons behind. '''(>>[[#Page 18 (Moon)|PAGE_18_(moon icon)]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 16 (Moon)|PAGE_16_(moon icon)]]_OR_[[#Page 8 (Missile)|PAGE_8_(missile icon)]]<<)''' {{anchor|Page 18 (Moon)}}'''(>>PAGE_18_(moon icon)>>)''' Ultra Magnus thanks you for your help in defeating the Decepticons and escaping this planet. Unfortunately, their space ship is not designed for prolonged trips through inter-stellar space, and Earth is a long ways from Barrenikon. However, the ship’s sensors are able to detect the vortex within Barrenikon from which you initially emerged. Each cave may lead you to a different point in space and time, and you must carefully consider which cave to enter. The Autobots can drop you off at the cave of your choosing.

::::'''''Enter the vortex through a cave.'' (>>[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 7 (Star)|PAGE_7_(star icon)]]<<)''' '''''Despite your slow speed, you make an attempt for the power pack.'' {{anchor|Page 11 (Meteor)}}(>>PAGE_11_(meteor icon)>>)''' You know that without it, the Autobots are at a complete disadvantage against the Decepticons. You manage to make your way to the power pack, and grab it. On your way back, however, [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] drives the Autobots out of their ship, and you find yourself cut off from your escape route. You attempt to hide, but Blast Off spots you and snatches you up in his metal grip. Blast Off then takes the power pack away from you, and puts you in the ship’s hold as his prisoner. '''(>>[[#Page 10 (Meteor)|PAGE_10_(meteor icon)]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 11 (Meteor)|PAGE_11_(meteor icon)]]_OR_[[#Page 12 (Meteor)|PAGE_12_(meteor icon)]]<<)''' {{anchor|Page 10 (Meteor)}}'''(PAGE_10_(meteor icon))''' You stumble about in the Decepticons’ hold for what seems to be hours. Finding no obvious means of escape, you come across a computer, and turn it on. The keyboard isn’t lettered, however, and you must figure out how to ask it the questions you want answered.

:::: '''''Do you have High Intelligence?'' (>>[[#Page 13 (Moon)|PAGE_13_(moon icon)]]>>)'''

::::'''''Do you have Medium and Low Intelligence?'' (>>[[#Page 9 (Meteor)|PAGE_9_(meteor icon)]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 10 (Meteor)|PAGE_10_(meteor icon)]]<<)''' '''''You come to the realization that not all Decepticons would be able to type on a human-scaled keyboard.'' {{anchor|Page 13 (Moon)}}(>>PAGE_11_(moon icon)>>)''' With this in mind, you come to the conclusion that the computer probably responds to oral commands. Your hunch proves correct, as the computer informs you that it will follow your commands. The Decepticons never considered that you would use their machinery, and as such never bothered to user-protect their computer. You order the computer to open the hold door, and it complies. Before you head out, you remember that the Autobots still need a power pack. You order the computer to close the door once more, so that you can continue your search for one in privacy. {{anchor|Page 14}}'''(PAGE_14)''' You order the computer to show you where the spare power packs are stored. The computer monitor displays a map for you. The map is hard to understand, but you decipher enough of it to realize that the power packs are stored in one of two possible rooms, depending on what the symbols on the screen mean.

:::::'''''Go to room XP764?'' (>>[[#Page 8 (Missile)|PAGE_8_(missile icon)]]>>)'''

:::::'''''Go to room RO645?'' (>>[[#Page 19 (Star)|PAGE_19_(star icon)]]>>)'''

::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 14|PAGE_14]]<<)''' '''''You head for the room marked "XP764."'' {{anchor|Page 8 (Missle)}}(>>PAGE_8_(missile icon)>>)''' Leaving the hold as quietly as you can, you creep alongside the corridors within the Decepticons’ ship. You finally arrive in the generator room and find in the corner a single power pack connected to the machinery. You disconnect it, and begin to lug the heavy box along. Nearby, you hear the sound of fighting; the Autobots are attacking the Decepticons! You stumble towards the room where the fighting is taking place. When you enter the room, Hot Rod is the first to spot you. He shifts his position so as to block the Decepticons’ view of your arrival. You manage to avoid getting hit, and exit the Decepticons’ ship, the power pack still in your arms. Ratchet soon breaks off from the others, and drives over to you. He informs you that the power pack is the only one the Decepticons have, and if the Autobots manage to make it off planet with it, they will leave the Decepticons unable to pursue them off-planet. Ratchet drives you back to the Autobot ship, where he installs the power pack. You then both fly over to the battlefield, and pick up the rest of the group, before taking off, leaving the Decepticons behind. '''(>>[[#Page 18 (Moon)|PAGE_18_(moon icon)]]>>)'''

::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 14|PAGE_14]]_OR_[[#Page 9 (Meteor)|PAGE_9_(meteor icon)]]<<)''' '''''You head for the room marked "RO645."'' {{anchor|Page 19 (Star)}}(>>PAGE_19_(star icon)>>)''' Leaving the hold as quietly as you can, you creep alongside the corridors within the Decepticons’ ship. Before long, however, you find yourself lost in the massive expanse of corridors in the Decepticon ship. Before panic fully grips you, you hear the loud metal clanking of nearby footsteps. Realizing that it could be Ratchet in the process of disconnecting a power pack, you rush over towards the sound. As you enter the room from where the sound is coming from, you yell out to Ratchet, only to be met by [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]], the leader of the Decepticons. In your mad rush to escape from Galvatron, you run into an adjoining room bathed in a purple light. As it turns out, this is the ship’s disintegration chamber. Your energy is drained away, and you slumpt to the floor, at Galvatron’s mercy.

::::::'''''THE END'''''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 10 (Meteor)|PAGE_10_(meteor icon)]]<<)''' '''''You try to figure out the Decepticons’ computer to no avail.'' {{anchor|Page 9 (Meteor)}}(>>PAGE_9_(meteor icon)>>)''' You finally simply give up in disgust. You then go to sleep for a few hours, only to wake to the sound of fighting. The door to the hold opens, and you see Ratchet signalling towards you from beyond the threshold. Ratchet uses the Decepticons’ computer to pinpoint the location of the Decepticons’ power packs, and the two of you head out. But as you head down a corridor that ends in a branch, Cyclonus comes into view and begins shooting at the two of you. While Ratchet holds him off, you must decide which corridor to proceed into.

:::::'''''Go into the left corridor?'' (>>[[#Page 19 (Star)|PAGE_19_(star icon)]]>>)'''

:::::'''''Go into the right corridor'' (>>[[#Page 4 (Moon)|PAGE_4_(moon icon)]]>>)'''

::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 9 (Meteor)|PAGE_9_(meteor icon)]]<<)''' '''''You go into the right corridor.'' {{anchor|Page 4 (Moon)}}(>>PAGE_4_(moon icon)>>)''' As you run, you notice Cyclonus chasing you. Ratchet is nowhere to be found. You duck into a door, and find yourself at a dead end. As Cyclonus encroaches towards you, you back up between two machines. These turn out to be the ship’s engines, who slowly begin to sap away at your life force. You collapse to the floor, unable to run from Cyclonus anymore…

::::::'''''THE END'''''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 5 (Missile)|PAGE_5_(missile icon)]]<<)''' '''''You and the Autobots decide to head down the trail.'' {{anchor|Page 13 (Meteor)}}(>>PAGE_13_(meteor icon)>>)''' Ultra Magnus transforms into his truck-trailer mode, and carries the other Autobots in his trailer to conserve fuel. You drive for what seems like hours, with nothing appearing over the horizon as the miles roll by. Eventually, Ultra Magnus stops, telling the others to disembark as he is himself running low on power. The other Autobots take turn giving you a ride as you continue down the path. Hot Rod eventually reports seeing a spaceship ahead, but as it turns out, it is the Autobots’ own. You have been going in a circle.

::'''''Return to the beginning of the book and try again.'' (>>[[#Page 1|PAGE_1]]>>)'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 2|PAGE_2]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots decide to look for another ship for components.'' {{anchor|Page 9 (Star)}}(>>PAGE_9_(star icon)>>)''' Springer is sent to scout out the environment while Ratchet works on the repairs he can complete for the moment being. Sandstorm notices that the ship’s power reserves are low, and comment that even with the ship repaired, they wouldn’t be able to get very far. Springer then returns and tells the others that There is nothing of interest at the North or South of their location. He advises going either East or West.

:'''''Head to the West?'' (>>[[#Page 18 (Meteor)|PAGE_18_(meteor icon)]]>>)'''

:'''''Head to the East?'' (>>[[#Page 15 (Star)|PAGE_15_(star icon)]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 9 (Star)|PAGE_9_(star icon)]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots head West.'' {{anchor|Page 18 (Meteor)}}(>>PAGE_18_(meteor icon)>>)''' Ultra Magnus transforms in his vehicle mode, and the rest of the team load up inside of his trailer. He drives his team for the better part of an hour before an old abandon ship comes into view. The Autobots resume their robot modes and overlook the downed craft. Springer confirms that they will be able to find the parts they need inside, but before you can take a look for yourself, Hot Rod spots a cloud of dust approaching from the horizon. The Decepticons are approaching! Ultra Magnus orders you to hide.

:: '''''Is your Speed Fast?'' (>>[[#Page 2 (Star)|PAGE_2_(star icon)]]>>)'''

::'''''Is your Speed Average or Slow?'' (>>[[#Page 4 (Star)|PAGE_4_(star icon)]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 18 (Meteor)|PAGE_18_(meteor icon)]]<<)''' '''''You are unable to make it to cover before the Decepticons arrive.'' {{anchor|Page 4 (Star)}}(>>PAGE_4_(star icon)>>)''' Ultra Magnus shields you from Decepticon fire while the other Autobots scatter. An explosion behind you sends you in a panic, and you take off running. When the smoke clears, neither the Autobots or the Decepticons are anywhere to be seen. You wander around for a while, until you hear a faint hum min sound coming from the distance. You instinctively duck for cover, only to find yourself slipping down a rock-hewn slope, and fall into a stinking swamp. You are unable to run from the humming sound as you find yourself trapped in the swamp’s muddy waters. '''(>>[[#Page 12 (Meteor)|PAGE_12_(meteor icon)]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 4 (Star)|PAGE_4_(star icon)]]_OR_[[#Page 3 (Star)|PAGE_3_(star icon)]]<<)''' {{anchor|Page 12 (Meteor)}}'''(PAGE_12_(meteor icon))''' Onslaught drags you out of the swamp. Then, the other Combatticons join with him to form [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]], and the combined robot carries you away. You attempt to start a conversation with Bruticus, only to be met with silence. After an hour of silent lumbering, Bruticus brings you to the Decepticon spaceship, and throws you in its hold. The door slams shut, and you are trapped within. Exploring the room, you wonder to yourself if the Autobots know that you have been captured. '''(>>[[#Page 10 (Meteor)|PAGE_10_(meteor icon)]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 9 (Star)|PAGE_9_(star icon)]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots head East.'' {{anchor|Page 15 (Star)}}(>>PAGE_15_(star icon)>>)''' Ultra Magnus transforms into his vehicle mode, and the rest of the Autobots hitch a ride inside of his trailer. You drive for almost an hour before your path is blocked off by a swamp. Seeing as you are unlikely to be spotted due to your small size, you volunteer to explore the swamp ahead of the group. You push your way through the muddy waters before finding yourself stuck. You have just stepped into some quicksand!

:: '''''Is your Strength Weak?'' (>>[[#Page 3 (Star)|PAGE_3_(star icon)]]>>)'''

::'''''Is your Strength Strong or Ordinary?'' (>>[[#Page 5 (Moon)|PAGE_5_(moon icon)]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 15 (Star)|PAGE_15_(star icon)]]<<)''' '''''You are unable to free yourself from the quicksand.'' {{anchor|Page 3 (Star)}}(>>PAGE_3_(star icon)>>)''' You begin to shout from help, but you sink all the way to your chest before you get a hear a sign that you are not alone. From the edge of the swamp comes the sounds of a great battle. You wonder what is happening. The Autobots have told you about their enemies, the Decepticons, but you didn’t know there would be any on this planet. Then, Springer comes crashing through some nearby trees. He doesn’t have the time to stay and help you out, but he quickly ties a rope to a nearby tree and tosses you the other end. He then hops away, in an attempt to lead the Decepticons from the area. You soon notice that the sounds of the battle have ceased. A robot hand pulls you out of the mud, and thinking that the Autobots must have won, you thank Hot Rod for coming back for you before you see your rescuer’s face. It isn’t Hot Rod; the Decepticon before you introduces himself as Onslaught, and declares that you are his prisoner. '''(>>[[#Page 12 (Meteor)|PAGE_12_(meteor icon)]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 15 (Star)|PAGE_15_(star icon)]]<<)''' '''''You manage to carefully pull yourself out of the quicksand.'' {{anchor|Page 5 (Moon)}}(>>PAGE_5_(moon icon)>>)''' You then cautiously make your way back to where the Autobots are waiting, watching where your feet land every step of the way. When you report that the swamp is full of quicksand, Ultra Magnus decides that it would be unwise to attempt crossing it. Just as the Autobots are getting ready to retrace their steps, Hot Rod spots a cloud of dust rising from over the horizon. The Decepticons are moving towards your position. '''(>>[[#Page 15 (Moon)|PAGE_15_(moon icon)]]>>)'''

==Additional content==
* Map of Barrenikon (Used to coordinate your relative position as the story progresses)
* Barrenikon landscape illustration. (for stickers) Cave placements correspond to page 17, "THE VORTEX."
* Spaceship interior illustration (for stickers)
* Sticker sheets: Onslaught (robot mode/vehicle mode), Ratchet (robot mode/vehicle mode), Hot Rod (robot mode/vehicle mode), Brawl (robot mode/vehicle mode), Blast Off (robot mode/vehicle mode), Swindle (robot mode/vehicle mode), Vortex (robot mode/vehicle mode), Ultra Magnus (robot mode/vehicle mode), Cyclonus (robot mode/vehicle mode), Galvatron (robot mode/vehicle mode), Springer (robot mode/helicopter mode/car mode), Sandstorm (robot mode/helicopter mode/car mode), Bruticus.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters|nonumbering=true
|c1=
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]
* [[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]]
* [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]]
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]]
* [[Springer (G1)|Springer]]

|c2=
* [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]]
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]]
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]]
* [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]]
* [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]]
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]]
* [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]]
* [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]]

|c3=
* [[You]]
}}

==Notes==
* According to the illustrations, [[you]] are a young white male.
* The art is entirely toy-based. Including Ratchet, oh yeah.
* The publishing 'imprint', St. Michael, was simply the name of the broad in-house brand used by Marks & Spencer, one of the UK's largest and oldest department store chains, across almost all its product ranges between 1927-2000. The sticker book was sold exclusively in M & S stores.

==External links==
*Scans of ''The Transformers Sticker Book'' at [https://www.camphortree.net/tf/books/#corgi-adv Steve-O's Transformers Book Archive], and the same page saved at the [http://web.archive.org/web/20070621115641/http://www.physics.ohio-state.edu/~sstoneb/tf/books/st-michael/activity/activity.html Internet Archive].

[[Category:Generation 1 multipath adventures]]
[[Category:Generation 1 activity books]]

List of Generation 1 books

2026-05-12T16:58:27Z

Velvet Android: /* St. Michael Books/Purnell */

{{nav-G1}}
[[Transformers brand|Transformers]] ain't just for watchin'! Over the years many a publisher has come out with ''readable products'' based on the [[The Transformers (franchise)|Generation 1]] franchise.

==English language books==
===[[Ballantine Books]]===
{{main|Find Your Fate Junior}}

===Beehive Books===
*''[[Transformers Pop-Up Book]]''

===Corgi Books===
{{main|Corgi Books}}

===[[DK Publishing]]===
*''[[Transformers: The Ultimate Guide]]''

===ibooks===
{{main|ibooks}}

===Kid Stuff===
{{main|Kid Stuff}}

===Ladybird Books===
{{main|Ladybird Books}}

===[[LB Kids]]===
*''[[Transformers: The Ultimate Pop-Up Universe]]''

===MacDonald Purnell===
{{main|Macdonald Purnell activity books}}

===Marvel Books===
{{main|Marvel Books}}

===St. Michael Books===
* [[Deadly Paradise]]
* [[The Transformers Sticker Book (St. Michael)|The Transformers Sticker Book]]
* [[Decepticon Attack!]]

===[[Viz Media]]===
*''[[Transformers: A Visual History]]''

==Japanese books==
*''[[Transformers Generations (series)|Transformers Generations]]''

==International books==
{{bookstub}}

==External links==
*[http://www.camphortree.net/tf/books/ Steve-o Stonebraker's TF book scans]

[[Category:Generation 1 books| ]]

Pretender

2026-05-10T15:04:13Z

Velvet Android: /* Notes */

[[File:Logo-PretendersHasbro.png|center|450px]]
{{bigquote|Pretenders hide the Transformers inside.|Pretenders subline tag}}

[[File:Skullgrin-packageart.jpg|upright=1.95|thumb|We don't know exactly how this works, and the artist probably didn't either, but it sure does look cool!]]
Disguise has always been a key component of Transformer operations on other worlds. '''Pretenders''' attempt to take this concept to the next level. Pretenders are Transformers fitted with special external armor shells that can disguise their very nature as robots. Rather than hiding themselves as the machinery or vehicles of a world, Pretender Shells<ref>Known as "Pretender Suits" (プリテンダースーツ ''Puritendā Sūtsu'') in Japan.</ref> allow a robot to take on the appearance of a native life form itself.

On top of its exploration and infiltration uses, a shell can also function as powerful battle armor, aid in self-repair, and even function independently of its robot as a second combatant mentally controlled by its "wearer". The major drawback of the technology is that the core robot will feel whatever pain is inflicted on the shell, sometimes even more strongly than pain inflicted on the robot itself.

The most common style of Pretender is an inner robot with a single humanoid shell (usually resembling a monster for [[Decepticon]]s or a [[human]] in battle armor for [[Autobot]]s).

==Fiction==
===Generation 1 continuity family===
====Marvel Comics continuity====
=====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comic=====
{{noteukonly}}
[[File:Scorponokpretendertothethrone.jpg|left|upright=1.4|thumb|What a pervert.]][[File:Decepticonpretenders-behold.jpg|upright=1.4|thumb|Because no one would think to fire on a horde of 25 foot tall nightmarish creatures charging at them with weapons.]]
''[[The Sentinel]]'' reported a genetic research lab had been taken over by "machines". The photo in the article revealed the machines to be [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] and [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]]. Inside the lab, [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] oversaw [[Vorath]]'s preparation of the [[synthoplasmic chamber]]s. Lord Zarak recombined with Scorponok to finalize the process, while boasting of his genius. Inside the six chambers, flesh and metal mixed around six Decepticons. Their resulting [[synthesized protoplasm|synthoplasmic]] outer shells would then hide their identity as Decepticons from the Autobots until it was '''''too late'''''.

{{note|Despite Scorponok and Zarak's claims, subsequent stories showed [[Longtooth]] and [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] using Pretender technology long ago in [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]'s past.}}

During the process, Vorath detected an intruder in their computer system and initiated a debugging sequence, but was unable to stop the intruder from downloading the data they would need to replicate the Pretender process. The intruder was [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]], who was at the time reduced to a computerized personality. The information was transmitted to [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]]'s crew on board the ''[[Steelhaven (G1)|Steelhaven]]''. There, they replicated the process and created six Pretenders of their own.

[[File:Pretendertothethrone-landmine.jpg|upright=1.4|thumb|Sproing!]]
The Decepticon Pretenders were led into a trap by Optimus Prime at [[Alternate Reality, Inc.]] They were fooled into thinking the six Autobots guarding the facility were just oversized, but cowardly humans. [[Cloudburst]] expressed doubts that the strange looking creatures were actually Decepticons until [[Landmine (G1)|Landmine]] reminded him they were also Pretenders just like they were. The Autobots faked a retreat only to split from their shells and thereby doubling their attack force. The Decepticons did the same, but were defeated thanks to Optimus Prime's strategy. {{storylink|Pretender to the Throne!}}

[[File:SkullgrinMonconMars.jpg|left|thumb|When the star wants a "tall latte", he means TALL.]]
Pretender technology allowed [[Skullgrin]] to become first a rural legend, then a [[Film|movie]] star. Sent to Earth to establish a fuel depot while hidden in his outer shell, he attracted the attention of [[Rollie Friendly (G1)|a B-movie producer]], who wrote him into the script of his latest feature. The giant devil-goat monster became a nationwide phenomenon. When Skullgrin revealed his true robotic nature to [[Carissa Carr (G1)|one of his human co-stars]], however, he drew the ire of [[Circuit Breaker (G1)|Circuit Breaker]], an encounter which may have ended his movie career. {{storylink|Monstercon from Mars!}}

During the [[Underbase Saga]], the quasi-flesh nature of the Pretenders' outer shells saved them from the energy blasts of the [[Underbase]]-possessed Starscream, even as innumerable Autobots and Decepticons were being destroyed around them. {{storylink|Dark Star}}

''Pretender shells were considered a sufficiently valuable resource that Scorponok was able to offer the technology to [[Carnivac (G1)|Carnivac]] and [[Snarler]] as payment for an assassination job.'' {{storylink|Survivors!}} The job didn't go so well; even two shell-equipped Decepticons weren't enough to defeat Fortress Maximus. {{storylink|The Man in the Machine!}}

[[File:Nomates.jpg|thumb|"No, no, my shell isn't that well-equipped!"]]
The Autobots Landmine and Cloudburst were able to make good use of their Pretender shells while on a mission to acquire spare parts for their fallen comrades. Traveling to a space station where giant humans were common but robots were unwelcome, they were able to bargain for microchips without tipping off their robotic natures. Later, when faced with seeing fellow Autobot Sky Lynx devoured by the [[Mecannibal]]s, Landmine's robot form was able to attack, free Sky Lynx, and then disappear by hiding inside his own shell. The entire scheme would have gone without a hitch if not for a tip-off from [[Hi-Test (G1)|Hi-Test]] and [[Throttle (G1)|Throttle]], alerting the Mecannibals that the two giant "humans" were in fact robots. {{storylink|Guess Who the Mecannibals Are Having for Dinner?}}

[[File:Resurrectiongambit-starscreamrevival.jpg|left|upright=0.85|thumb|Most Pretender figures had a poor alt mode but this guy does not even have a proper robot mode!]]
After bargaining their way free from the Mecannibals, Landmine and Cloudburst continued to make use of their shells, negotiating with the inhabitants of the planet [[Femax]], who also just happened to be giant humans. Cloudburst almost got to experience a little giant human nookie, before revealing to the Femaxians' [[First One]] that he was a robot, and therefore not a particularly desirable mate. {{storylink|Recipe for Disaster!}}

Pretender technology showed another face when [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] returned to power. New shells he had developed would repair and restore even the most severely damaged robots. {{storylink|The Resurrection Gambit!}} [[Ratchet (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Ratchet]] was compelled to resurrect Starscream with this technology, but also managed to bring back [[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]], [[Jazz (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Jazz]] and [[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Bumblebee]]; all four now had their own Pretender shells. These new shells not only enabled disguise, but also served as great power-boosting enhancements for their wearers and allowed them to fight in two places at once. {{storylink|All the Familiar Faces!}}

[[File:Slog-rhythmsofdarkness1.jpg|thumb|An adorable minion of evil.]]
''Thunderwing had his mechanical Pretender shell eons ago on Cybertron, indicating that some form of the technology predated Scorponok's use of it.'' {{storylink|The Magnificent Six!}} ''Thunderwing mostly remained inside his shell, only emerging on rare occasions.'' {{storylink|The Big Shutdown!}}

''Carnivac, meanwhile, used his shell in his initial solo assault on the [[Mayhem Attack Squad]]. When he was caught off guard, outnumbered and nearly surrounded, he sent the shell on a suicide run, allowing it to be destroyed.'' {{storylink|Wolf in the Fold!}} ''Though the feedback nearly killed him, the ruse worked, and his pursuers believed him to be dead, allowing him to regain the element of surprise.'' {{storylink|Where Wolf?}}

When Optimus Prime surrendered to Scorponok on Earth, the Decepticons confiscated the Autobot Pretenders' shells. {{storylink|Surrender!}} Later, on Cybertron, they had them again during a fight against Unicron. {{storylink|On the Edge of Extinction!}}

In an alternate future where [[Galvatron II|Galvatron]] had triumphed, Pretender technology was still in use by his troops, the [[Pretender Monster]]s. These Pretenders could apparently somehow phase through their shells, without the shells having to split open like most others. {{storylink|Rhythms of Darkness!}}
{{-}}

=====''Classics''=====
{{noteclassics}}
With the ''[[Graviton (Classics)|Graviton]]'' crash-landed on an alternate universe prehistoric Earth saturated with energon radiation, [[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]] came up with the solution of using Pretender and [[Powermaster]] technology to create [[beast mode]]s capable of withstanding the ambient energon radiation. {{storylink|Shattered Time}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
=====''Super-God Masterforce'' cartoon=====
[[File:ProtecttheWildAnimals Autobot Pretenders human.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.35|{{w|The A-Team|If you can find them, maybe you can hire...}}]]
Eight thousand years ago, a starship containing the Autobot Pretenders [[Metalhawk (G1)|Metalhawk]], [[Lander]], [[Diver (G1)|Diver]], and [[Phoenix (G1)|Phoenix]] pursued the Decepticon Pretenders [[Blood]], [[Dauros]], and [[Gilmer]] to neolithic-era [[Earth]], where they crashed. Using their Pretender abilities, the Autobots adopted the form of humans. They transformed the very structure of their bodies into an organic equivalent, shrinking down to normal human size to hide in plain sight among burgeoning Humanity.

[[File:Metalhawk puretendaaaaa.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb]]
A Pretender could transform from a human in two stages. Touching his left wrist and yelling "suit on!" would cause him to don his Pretender suit. From this state, he could touch his left wrist and yell "Pretender!" to [[size changing|size-change]] and revert to his [[robot mode]].

The Decepticon Pretenders, on the other hand, adopted the forms of monstrous creatures, becoming feared as demons by early Man. After many battles, the Autobots succeeded in defeating their enemies and sealing them away—Blood in the [[pyramid]]s of [[Egypt]], Gilmer in the ruins of [[Atlantis]], and Dauros beneath the [[Nazca Lines]] in [[Peru]]—for thousands of years.

The Autobot Pretenders continued to live among humanity. By the early twenty-first century, Hawk was working at the [[Space Astronomy Research Center]] in [[Japan]], while Diver was running the [[Ocean Research Institute of California]]. When the three Decepticon Pretenders were liberated by the mysterious Decepticon "god", [[Devil Z]], the four Autobots were drawn out of hiding to fight them. {{storylink|Rise Up!! Pretenders}}

[[File:KidnappingTargetedJet Phoenix Lander robot modes.jpg|thumb|left]]
The Decepticons began a plan to convert humans into zombie-like [[Destroid]]s. The Autobots sought to foil their plan, leading them to the [[Karin Islands]]. Meanwhile, Blood destroyed the Astronomy Research Center and killed [[Haruma Gō|Professor Gō]]. The Autobots subsequently took residence in a new [[Autobot Base]]. Hawk would act as base coordinator until its later destruction. {{storylink|Terror! The Decepticons' Manhunt}} The Decepticons began hijacking planes to provide bodies for their Destron experiments. The Autobot Pretenders fought the new creations in [[Rome]], before Hawk and Phoenix fought to protect another plane against Blood. {{storylink|Kidnapping!? The Targeted Jumbo Jet}}

The three young humans whom the Autobots had befriended were given [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] [[transtector]]s by Hawk. He intended them to be used only for search and rescue, and later had to come to the [[Headmaster Junior]]s' aid when they were faced with three Decepticon Headmaster Juniors. {{storylink|Birth! Headmaster Jrs}} Hawk later sent them to Diver in California for training. {{storylink|Rage!! Little Devils with No Need for Rules}} When the Decepticon Pretenders started interfering with wildlife in [[Kenya]], the Autobots went to stop them. The Autobot Pretenders were kept busy fighting [[Seacon (Masterforce)|Seacon]]s. {{storylink|Panic! Protect the Wild Animals!!}}

[[File:ProtecttheWildAnimals Decepticons Pretenders robot mode.jpg|thumb|The Good, the Bad and the Ugly]]
Unexpectedly, the Decepticon trio found themselves being supplanted by [[Buster (G1)|Buster]] and [[Hydra (G1)|Hydra]], two [[Godmaster (lifeform)|Godmasters]]. The Decepticon Pretenders attacked a [[Mt Fuji Foothills Hang Gliding Competition Tournament|hang gliding competition]] to draw out Hawk and Lander, who were promptly set upon by the Godmasters and almost beaten until Phoenix and Diver arrived to help. {{storylink|Super Warriors - The Godmaster Brothers}} The Pretenders were involved in another Decepticon plan to attack a new power plant in the Karin Islands. Again, the Autobots fought the two Godmaster brothers, and were able to win. {{storylink|A Fierce Battle!! The Autobots Are in Trouble}}

A short time later, Diver encountered a Godmaster, [[Ginrai (human)|Ginrai]], in California, and helped the young man understand what he'd taken on. {{storylink|A Hero Is Chosen - His Name Is Ginrai}} Diver and Lander briefed Ginrai on the Decepticons, and came to his aid when he fought the Godmaster brothers. {{storylink|Ginrai: God On of Rage!!}} Ginrai found some [[Master-Brace]]s in his Transtector cab, which Hawk unsuccessfully tried to analyse. {{storylink|A Strange Friendship: Cancer and Minerva}} After Ginrai got hold of a trailer for his Transtector, he showed it to Diver and Lander. The two Pretenders later came to his aid when he was attacked by the Godmaster brothers. {{storylink|Eliminate the Godmaster Ginrai}}

[[File:BirthofSuperGinrai Dauros holding Diver.jpg|thumb|left]]
The Decepticon Pretenders captured a group of humans and held them on an island. When Diver went to investigate, he was captured by Gilmer and Dauros, who bound his arms so he couldn't touch his wrist, effectively trapping him in human form. He was, with the help of a [[Tony (Masterforce)|young boy]], able to get a signal back to the rest of the Autobots, who came to the rescue. {{storylink|Heroism!! The Birth of Super Ginrai}} After the discovery of a second Autobot Godmaster, [[Lightfoot (G1)|Lightfoot]], Hawk and Lander accompanied the two Godmasters and the Headmaster Juniors to Canada, where they found a third Godmaster, [[Ranger]]. {{storylink|An Enemy? The Third Godmaster, Ranger}} When [[Sixknight]] came to Earth looking to prove himself, the Decepticon Pretenders were happy to show him how to draw the Autobots out. Hawk didn't fare terribly well against Sixknight in battle. {{storylink|A Powerful Foe!! Sixknight the Wanderer}}

With the arrival of [[Road King]], the Autobot Pretenders opted to turn defence of the Earth over to Ginrai and the Godmasters. {{storylink|The Autobot Warrior, Sixknight?!}} The three Decepticon Pretenders set about enacting a plan dreamed up by the Godmaster brothers, kidnapping doctors from across the planet and holding them on [[Atlan Island]]. Once the plan was discovered, the Autobot Godmasters defeated the trio. {{storylink|Save the Little Girl! The Chōjin Warriors, the Godmasters}}

[[File:ExposetheDecepticons Decepticon Pretenders.jpg|thumb]]
Another Pretender, [[Grand Maximus]], arrived from space to join the Autobot forces, providing plans for a [[Godbomber]] drone unit. {{storylink|Life? Death? The Desperate Lightfoot}} The Autobot Pretenders soon began construction on Godbomber at a [[British Motors]] factory in Canada. {{storylink|Super Ginrai Gets Blown Away in the Desert!?}} They raced to complete it as the Decepticons attacked the factory. {{storylink|Will the Bomber Project Be Destroyed!?}} They immediately turned it over to Ginrai so he could use it to reach a moonbase under attack from [[Overlord (G1)|Overlord]] {{storylink|God Ginrai - Into the Sky!!}} and could only observe from the Autobot Base as he and Grand Maximus duked it out with Overlord and [[Scorponok (G1)|BlackZarak]]. Lander opted to celebrate the victory with some wine. {{storylink|God Ginrai - Showdown on the Surface of the Moon}}

[[File:DisasterAutobotBase Metalhawk injured.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.35|It's been a rough day cosplaying at [[BotCon]].]]
Gilmer took part in the construction of an undersea base, but took a back seat to [[King Poseidon]] when it came to doing any fighting. {{storylink|Escape!! The Underwater Volcano Erupts}} The Decepticon Pretenders searched in North America for the final Godmaster, but all they found was a bear. Meanwhile, a distress call from a ship damaged by the real final Godmaster was picked up by Diver, who relayed the information to Ginrai. {{storylink|Appearance!! The Final Godmaster}} After the Autobots took in [[Clouder]], Hawk became suspicious of the last Godmaster, and he was proved right when he caught Clouder passing information to the Decepticons. Unfortunately the damage was already done, and the Decepticons launched an attack on the Autobot Base. {{storylink|Secret Orders! Destroy the Autobot Base!!}} Hawk was subsequently injured while trying to undertake damage control, and the base was destroyed. {{storylink|Disaster! The Autobot Base Explodes}}

Hawk, Phoenix and Diver fought Overlord over the ocean, but were no match for the Decepticon. {{storylink|BlackZarak - Destroyer from Space}} The Pretenders continued to scan the globe for Decepticon activity. Grand Maximus joined an assault on the Decepticon's space-borne [[Death Para-Machine]]. {{storylink|Crisis! The Day of Human Extinction}} The Autobot and Decepticon Pretenders clashed in Latin America {{storylink|God Ginrai - Save Cancer!?}} and again in various places around the world while Ginrai launched an attack on the Decepticon base to rescue [[Shūta Gō]]. {{storylink|God Ginrai: Showdown at the Decepticon Base}}

[[File:UltimateCombination Autobot Pretenders.jpg|thumb]]
While everyone else went to trash the Decepticon base, the Autobot Pretenders were left to monitor the planet for Decepticon activity. The Decepticon Pretenders made a brief attempt to defend the base against Ginrai, which didn't end well for them. {{storylink|The Ultimate Combination!! BlackZarak, the New Lifeform}} As Ginrai and the Autobots closed in on BlackZarak, Lightfoot and Road King fought Gilmer and Dauros, defeating them before being attacked by Hydra and Buster, who inadvertently fragged Blood. {{storylink|Autobots! Desperate Attack!!}} The three Decepticon Pretenders spotted Road King, Ranger and Lightfoot, and alerted BlackZarak to their location. Hawk fought King Poseidon, defeating the combiner with a lot of help from Ginrai. {{storylink|Malevolent and Inhuman! The True Form of Devil Z}} Following the destruction of Devil Z, the Decepticon Pretenders did not appear to depart Earth with the other Decepticons, and presumably went back into hiding. {{storylink|A Battle... and Then...}}

=====Ask Vector Prime=====
In [[Primax 304.25-P3 Zeta]], Megazarak "redeveloped" pretender technology to allow troops of his to operate on the planet Beast, giving shells to [[Fenris]], [[Brouhaha]], [[Hoodwink]] and [[Killjoy]]. Fortress Maximus reverse-engineered the technology and gave it to four troops of his own; Marduk, Eos, Beowulf, and Herne. The shells of all eight Cybertronians resembled barely-armoured humans. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/9/30}}

====Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity====
Pretender technology was originally developed as a form of additional body armour. Pretender shells could enhance their wearer's physical strength and resistance to damage. More advanced shell designs could shrink down to human size and enable their wearer to blend into Earth society unnoticed.

It is possible that the Pretender technology was later adapted to develop the [[Maximal]] and [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]] [[beast mode]]s.

{{note|Pretenders were only depicted in [[Dreamwave Productions]]'s ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye]]'' profile books and did not appear in the actual storylines.}}

====2005 IDW continuity====
[[File:Thunderwing stormbringer.jpg|left|upright=0.85|thumb|It's just not natural, I tell you!]]
The technology was the invention of the Decepticon [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] and used living tissue painfully culled from live (and quite likely unwilling) subjects to create a powerful and still-living symbiotic carapace. The goal of this technology was to allow Transformers to survive an impending environmental collapse on their home planet, [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. Even [[Megatron (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Megatron]] rejected the concept as unnatural and repulsive. The first experiences were not that encouraging. Both cases where the technology was implemented ended in disaster, as the melding of the robot's mind with the shell was improperly aligned or hastily executed. Subject one, Thunderwing, became unfathomably powerful but totally insane and destructive, ultimately rendering Cybertron too hostile for Transformer habitation. Subject two, [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]], tried to rush the process and ended up comatose inside his new shell. {{storylink|The Transformers: Stormbringer |Stormbringer}}

Surprisingly, [[Jetfire (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Jetfire]], formerly aghast at the details of what the process entailed, decided that they needed the technology to penetrate the portal at the [[Benzuli Expanse]]. [[Optimus Prime (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Optimus Prime]] was a little hesitant on the subject, but Jetfire managed to convince the [[Prime (rank)|Autobot leader]]. The Autobots selected for the process were [[Cloudburst]], [[Landmine (G1)|Landmine]], [[Groundbreaker]], and [[Waverider]]. {{storylink|Spotlight: Hardhead}}

[[File:IDWAutobotPretenders.jpg|upright=1.4|thumb|Robots wearing space suits?]]
After a long process, {{storylink|Spotlight: Doubledealer}} the Technobots finally completed the four shells. Unlike the hideous and pseudo-organic look of Thunderwing and Bludgeon, these shells were simply large, bulky armor suits. Suiting up, Cloudburst's team were able to fight off a raging [[Cyclonus (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Cyclonus]] and took the [[Nega-Core]]s through the Expanse into the [[Dead Universe]] for disposal. The shells proved effective in combating the deadly energies of the dimension, protecting the Cybertronians within. However it was apparent that they could only do so for a limited amount of time under such harsh conditions. {{storylink|Spotlight: Sideswipe}}

Later, [[Prowl (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Prowl]] ordered that Jetfire's research be taken to the [[Kimia Facility]] where the scientists there (along with [[Perceptor (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Perceptor]]) were able to create a new body for [[Kup (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Kup]], whose former body hadn't been upgraded in so long that it was incompatible with current tech. Unlike previous configurations, Kup's Pretender body is hollow, instead directly linking his brain to the shell. Although this rendered him inseparable from his Pretender shell, it provided him with greater physical capability than his original body had in centuries. {{storylink|Everything in Its Right Place}}

{{note|The term "Pretender" is not used at all during the ''Stormbringer'' series. Instead the term "polydermal grafting" is used to further illustrate how repulsive, grotesque, and dangerous the process appears to be.}}

=====The Functionist Universe=====
In an [[Functionist Universe|alternate timeline]] where the [[Functionist Council]] had took over Cybertron, Transformers from low classes began bolting [[kibble]] to themselves so they could fake being jets or microscopes. They were labelled "Pretenders". {{storylink|The Custom-Made Now - An Elegant Chaos Prologue|The Custom-Made Now}}

====''Transformers vs. G.I. Joe''====
The Pretenders, led by [[Stranglehold]], were created from reverse-engineering [[human]] anatomy after [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]] had dropped [[G.I.Rocket|green bombs]] on [[Iacon (polity)|Iacon]] to better traverse and cope with the now-alien environment. The three of them found a G.I. Joe squad and sent them running. Though [[General Flagg]] was impressed by the adaptability of the [[Decepticon]]s, [[Flash (G.I. Joe)|Flash]] was horrified to think the Pretenders's grotesque appearance reflected how the Decepticons viewed humanity. {{storylink|Pax Megatronus}}

====''Beast Wars: Uprising''====
Pretender technology existed in some form on post-war Cybertron. The Commando [[Movor]] initially wondered if he and his team might've been volunteering to become Pretenders when Lio Convoy approached them. {{storylink|Derailment}}

===''TransTech''===
[[Black Shadow (G1)|Black Shadow]] made good use of his Pretender-style [[Crossformer]] shell, which allowed him to simultaneously pursue [[Hubcap (G1)|Hubcap]] and [[Jackpot (G1)|Jackpot]] even as they fled in opposite directions. Rather than requiring him to operate it remotely and divide his attention, the entirely robotic shell was equipped with an artificial intelligence which allowed it to function independently, if a bit stiltedly. When Black Shadow's robot form was destroyed, the shell also ceased to function—though this may have been the work of a saboteur, rather than a feature endemic to the shell. {{storylink|Gone Too Far}}

===Shattered Expectations===
[[Goldbug (SG)|Goldbug]], [[Grimlock (SG)|Grimlock]], and [[Jazz (SG)|Jazz]] sneaked into a Pretender laboratory. There were at least six Pretender shells, including the four [[Classic Pretender]] shells and two [[Double Pretender]] shells.

Also, [[Dirge (SG)|Dirge]] appeared as a Pretender. {{storylink|Shattered Expectations (SG)|Shattered Expectations}}

===Live-action film series===
====''Revenge of the Fallen''====
[[Alice (ROTF)|Alice]] tried to get information from [[Sam Witwicky]] by getting close to him, but later she revealed her true nature as a Pretender. {{storylink|Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (film)|Revenge of the Fallen}}

{{note|Alice was not a traditional Pretender in that she transformed into an "organic" humanoid mode instead of having an outer shell. The confirmation of her as a Pretender came from an interview with [[Roberto Orci]].<ref>[https://www.ign.com/articles/2009/01/14/transformers-2-rumor-confirmed Transformers 2 Rumor Confirmed]</ref>}}

====''Hunt for the Decepticons''====
A [[new lab assistant]] also found a place in Sam Witwicky's life so that the Decepticons could monitor him. Megatron used him to lure [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]] into a trap. {{storylink|Prime Target (book)|Prime Target}}

==Commercial appearances==
[[File:Pretendermonstercommercial.jpg|upright=1.4|thumb|left]]
After being defeated one too many times by the Decepticons, the Autobots created a new breed of Transformer: the Pretenders, [[Cloudburst]], [[Landmine (G1)|Landmine]] and [[Waverider]], in a research facility. [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]] and [[Darkwing (G1)|Darkwing]] attacked the facility, but the Pretenders easily scared them off by splitting from their shells. Afterwards, the Decepticons retaliated by sending their own Pretenders, [[Skullgrin]], [[Bomb-Burst (G1)|Bomb-Burst]] and [[Submarauder (G1)|Submarauder]] to that same facility, with both shells and inner robots clashing. {{storylink|Commercial/Generation 1|Pretenders Commercial}}

[[Snarler]] and [[Catilla (G1)|Catilla]] clashed in their robotic beast modes, with Snarler briefly pinning Catilla down after transforming into robot mode. The two then leapt off each other and somehow regained their shells, before splitting off from them again. Later, [[Gunrunner (G1)|Gunrunner]] transformed to jet mode after ejecting from his vehicle shell, with his opponent [[Roadgrabber]] doing the same to open fire on the Autobot. {{storylink|Commercial/Generation 1|Pretender Beasts and Pretender Vehicles Commercial}}

When [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Powermaster Optimus Prime]] came under fire in a city at night, the Classic Pretenders, [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] and [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]], arrived and split out of their shells and right into Prime's embrace. [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] later split out of his shell to let out a fire breath, while [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] attacked them from above. {{storylink|Commercial/Generation 1|Classic Pretenders Commercial}}

Starscream later lowered the inner robots of the [[Pretender Monster]]s into colorful vats, giving them rubbery shells. {{storylink|Commercial/Generation 1|Pretender Monsters}}

The Autobot [[Mega Pretender]]s, [[Vroom (G1)|Vroom]] and [[Crossblades (G1)|Crossblades]], came under attack and transformed out of their humanoid shell and recombined with them to turn into vehicle mode. Later, [[Roadblock (G1)|Roadblock]] barely avoided getting blasted to bits by [[Skyhammer (G1)|Skyhammer]] before splitting from both of his shells to blast his adversary. Twice. {{storylink|Commercial/Generation 1|Mega and Ultra Pretenders}}

==Games==
===''Transformers Roleplaying Game''===
Pretender technology helped lead to the development of [[Maximal]]s and [[Predacon (BW)|Predacons]], though scientific opinion varied on just how much similarity there was. {{storylink|Technorganic Secrets}}

==Toys==
===''The Transformers''===
*'''Pretenders''' (1988)
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Wave 1'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Bomb-Burst (G1)#Toys|Bomb-Burst]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Cloudburst#Toys|Cloudburst]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Landmine (G1)#Toys|Landmine]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Skullgrin#Toys|Skullgrin]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Submarauder (G1)#Toys|Submarauder]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Waverider#Toys|Waverider]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Wave 2'''
{{Bp-d1|[[Bugly (G1)#Toys|Bugly]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Finback#Toys|Finback]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Groundbreaker#Toys|Groundbreaker]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Iguanus (G1)#Toys|Iguanus]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Sky High (Pretender)#Toys|Sky High]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Splashdown#Toys|Splashdown]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top" rowspan=2|[[File:G1Finback toy.jpg|thumb|Finback]][[File:G1Splashdown toy.jpg|thumb|Splashdown]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Pretenders (often called the "large Pretenders" to distinguish them from the smaller Pretenders released in 1989) set the ongoing subline trend: a single robot, usually with a futuristic alternate mode, encased in a humanoid shell that splits into front and back halves. The shells are essentially statues, articulated only at the shoulder with swivel joints. By comparison, the inner robots tend to be highly articulated for their time, normally having articulation at the neck, shoulders, hips, and knees, though they are generally thin-limbed and have very simplistic transformations.

The large Pretenders were released in two [[wave]]s. Each wave consists of an air, sea, and land themed character for each faction. The first and second waves of Autobot Pretenders have noticeably different aesthetics. The first wave shells feature bulbous, largely single-color "space suit" style designs with the human heads partially concealed by the suits. The second wave had brighter, more heroic armored suits with animal themes and fully visible human heads.

The second wave appears to have had production problems or delays; the initial 1988 catalogs omitted their photographs, showing only a "COMING SOON" silhouette (though common in Kenner's Star Wars toyline, such an unfinished "preview" was rare for Transformers). Additionally, most wave two Pretenders toys have minor engineering oddities: Limbs which don't fully fold away in [[alternate mode|vehicle mode]], joints that serve no purpose for either transformation or articulation, vehicle modes that can't be balanced flat on a surface, or static sculpted wheels instead of actual ones (rolling wheels being the standard otherwise at the time).

The first wave of regular Pretenders was released by Takara in the ''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1988 (Super-God Masterforce)|Masterforce]]'' line as new characters (see below), but with largely identical toys. The second wave was not released in Japan.
|}

{{-}}
*'''Pretender Beasts''' (1988)
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Wave 1'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Carnivac (G1)#Toys|Carnivac]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Catilla (G1)#Toys|Catilla]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Chainclaw (G1)#Toys|Chainclaw]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Snarler#Toys|Snarler]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|
|
|width="20%" valign="top" rowspan=2|[[File:G1-toy Chainclaw.jpg|thumb|Chainclaw]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
{{main|Pretender Beast}}

Pretender Beasts are very similar to the normal Pretenders, only their alternate modes and shells are based on Earth animals. These sets also lack melee weapons, and the shells completely lack articulation in any form (unless you count changing the orientation of the mounted blaster accessories).

These toys appear to have been [[gang-molding|gang-molded]]: the two Autobot inner robots use the same plastic colors (yellow and gray), as do the Decepticons (purple, brown and turquoise). Curiously for the time, all four have neck articulation in robot mode, even on figures where the heads are recessed like Carnivac.
|}

{{-}}
*'''Pretender Vehicles''' (1988)
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Wave 1'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Gunrunner (G1)#Toys|Gunrunner]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Roadgrabber#Toys|Roadgrabber]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|
|
|width="20%" valign="top" rowspan=2|[[File:G1-toy Roadgrabber.jpg|thumb|Roadgrabber]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
{{main|Pretender Vehicle}}

The largest Pretender offerings in 1988 (thought not by a lot), Pretender Vehicles are robots whose outer shells are vehicles rather than organic creatures. The robots' vehicle modes feature large cannon accessories with reciprocating "pom-pom" action, but that feature can only be activated when the accessories are plugged into the vehicle shells: the rear wheels are part of a gear system that makes the cannons do the ack-ack-ack-ack thing.
|}

{{-}}
*'''Pretenders''' (1989)
{{anchor|Pretenders1989}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Wave 1'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Bludgeon (G1)#Toys|Bludgeon]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Doubleheader#Toys|Doubleheader]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Longtooth#Toys|Longtooth]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Octopunch (G1)#Toys|Octopunch]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Pincher (G1)#Toys|Pincher]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Stranglehold#Toys|Stranglehold]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|
|
|width="20%" valign="top" rowspan=2|[[File:G1-toy Bludgeon.jpg|thumb|Bludgeon]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The 1989 Pretenders assortment (often called the "small Pretenders") were sold carded rather than boxed. Like their larger 1988 brethren, the shells are articulated only at the shoulder and split front-back. Their inner robots are considerably smaller, about the same size as the [[Mini-Vehicle]]s, much more thick-limbed and less articulated than the large Pretenders, though their alt-modes are much more definable. A portion of each robot's alternate mode detaches and serves as a weapon or shield for the outer shell, rather than being concealed within.

There has been some speculation that the designs for Longtooth and Stranglehold may have been switched between factions at some point, as the former better fits the Decepticon monster motif and the latter better matches the Autobots "human" stylings.
|}

{{-}}
*'''Pretender Classics''' (1989)
{{anchor|PretenderClassics}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Wave 1'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Bumblebee (G1)/toys|Bumblebee]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Grimlock (G1)/toys|Grimlock]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Jazz (G1)/toys|Jazz]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Starscream (G1)/toys|Starscream]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|
|
|width="20%" valign="top" rowspan=2|[[File:G1-toy GrimlockPretender.jpg|thumb|Grimlock]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
{{main|Classic Pretender}}

The first ''Transformers'' subline to focus on reinventing previous characters, Classic Pretenders are new iterations of 1984~85 characters, only now smaller (except for Bumblebee, whose inner robot figure is [[Mini-Vehicle|larger than his original toy]]). Aside from the character selection, these Pretenders are pretty standard fare: inner robot, armored human shell. According to designer [[Masakatsu Saito]], the faces were based on "famous foreign actors" of the day<ref>''[[Transformers Generations 2011 Vol. 2]]'', p86</ref>, but who exactly those were is anyone's guess.

The inner robots were also released without their shells as [[Kmart]] [[exclusive]] toys called "[[Legends (G1)|Legends]]".
|}

{{-}}
*'''Mega Pretenders''' (1989)
{{anchor|PretendersMega}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Wave 1'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Crossblades (G1)#Toys|Crossblades]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Thunderwing (G1)#Toys|Thunderwing]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Vroom (G1)#Toys|Vroom]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|
|
|width="20%" valign="top" rowspan=2|[[File:G1-toy Vroom.jpg|thumb|Vroom]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
{{main|Mega Pretender}}

Mega Pretenders are much more complex, with a small transformable inner robot inside a ''transformable'' outer shell that has its own vehicle mode. The shell and robot can also combine in vehicle modes to form an enhanced vehicle mode, such as a sidecar for Vroom's motorcycle mode, or an extra-long nose for Thunderwing's jet form.

Thunderwing and Crossblades were retooled for the Japanese market and released as the [[Crossformer#Toys|Crossformer]]s.
|}

{{-}}
*'''Ultra Pretenders''' (1989)
{{anchor|PretendersUltra}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Wave 1'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Roadblock (G1)#Toys|Roadblock]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Skyhammer (G1)#Toys|Skyhammer]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|
|
|width="20%" valign="top" rowspan=2|[[File:G1 Skyhammer toy.jpg|thumb|Skyhammer]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
{{main|Ultra Pretender}}

The largest of the Pretenders sold in 1989, Ultra Pretenders are even ''more'' complex than the Mega Pretenders. The very small inner robot fits inside a small transformable humanoid shell; the humanoid shell's vehicle mode has an open-cockpit section the inner robot can sit in. Said shell can then fit inside the large vehicle shell, which has a small "battle platform" on top the inner robot can operate.

Unfortunately, both toys are known to suffer from [[Gold Plastic Syndrome]], Skyhammer in particular, so be very careful with them.
|}
{{-}}
*'''Pretender Monsters''' (1989)
{{anchor|PretendersMonsters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Wave 1'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Birdbrain#Toys|Birdbrain]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Bristleback#Toys|Bristleback]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Icepick (G1)#Toys|Icepick]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Scowl (G1)#Toys|Scowl]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slog (G1)#Toys|Slog]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Wildfly#Toys|Wildfly]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|
|
|width="20%" valign="top" rowspan=2|[[File:G1-toy Birdbrain.jpg|thumb|Birdbrain]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
{{main|Pretender Monster}}

The small Pretender Monsters are simple, blocky bots with monstrous alternate modes, and can combine to form [[Monstructor (G1)#Toys|Monstructor]]. Their shells are simple, non-articulated rubbery monsters with a small compartment for the robot, covered by a plastic panel that holds their accessories and combiner [[kibble]].

The shells are known to get discolored fairly easily, as well as "sweat" an oily substance as the rubberized plastic ever so slowly breaks down. Some of the inner robots also suffer from Gold Plastic Syndrome. The inner robots were recolored and given new shells for their release in Japan as the [[Dinoforce]].
|}

{{-}}
{{anchor|Double Pretenders (unreleased)}}
[[File:DoublePretenders2.png|thumb|...Tarantulas? Optimus Primal?]]
*'''Double Pretenders'''
**[[Oilmaster]]
**Unnamed spider-bandito duo.
{{main|Double Pretender}}
: Prototypes for "Double Pretenders", two small robots in one shell, which splits top and bottom at the waist, were designed but never put in production.
{{canceledtoy}}
{{--}}

===''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers''===
[[File:Logo-PretendersTakara.png|center|300px]]
*'''''Pretenders''''' (1988)
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''''Super-God Masterforce'''''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Blood#Toys|Blood]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Dauros#Toys|Dauros]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Diver (G1)#Toys|Diver]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Gilmer#Toys|Gilmer]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Grand Maximus#Toys|Grand Maximus]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Lander#Toys|Lander]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Metalhawk (G1)#Toys|Metalhawk]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Phoenix (G1)#Toys|Phoenix]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top" rowspan="2"|[[File:MF-toy Metalhawk.jpg|thumb|Metalhawk]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
[[TakaraTomy|Takara]] did not go anywhere near as heavy on the Pretender concept as Hasbro did during the initial toyline.

The bulk of the ''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1988 (Super-God Masterforce)|Super-God Masterforce]]'' Pretenders are exactly the same as their Hasbro counterparts, though Diver's shell deco was ''very slightly'' altered from [[Waverider#Toys|Waverider]]. More importantly, the line features two new Pretenders: the entirely new-mold Metalhawk, and Grand Maximus in his "Grand" form also features a new-mold Pretender shell designed to hold the existing [[Cerebros (G1)#Toys|Cerebros]] mold.

For ''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1989 (Victory)|Victory]]'' the following year, the Mega Pretenders and the Pretender Monsters were [[retool]]ed into the [[Crossformer]]s and the [[Dinoforce#Toys|Dinoforce]], respectively, but neither group are properly called "Pretenders".
|}
{{--}}

===''Timelines''===
[[File:TL-toy Oilmaster.jpg|thumb|''He's the leader of the bunch/You know him well/He's two small men inside a shell'' (Oilmaster)]]
*'''Double Pretenders'''
<ul class="iconlist">
:{{Bp-d1|[[Oilmaster#Timelines|Oilmaster]] (2015)}}
:{{Bp-d1|[[Megatron (G1)/Generations toys#DoublePretender|Megatron]] (2017)}}
:{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#TFSS|Optimus Prime]] (2017)}}
</ul>

: [[Fun Publications]]' only foray into ''proper'' Pretenders started with the [[BotCon 2015]] [[exclusive]] Oilmaster, a brand-new shell mold by [[Boss Fight Studio]] based on the canceled Generation 1 Double Pretender gorilla in its darker, black-and-brown color scheme. The shell was designed to accommodate his two robot bodies at once. He was only available in the convention's 5-toy "[[Cybertron's Most Wanted]]" set.

: This mold set would later be re-used to make the [[Transformers Figure Subscription Service|Subscription Service 5.0]] exclusive "Double Pretender Optimus Prime", bringing the gorilla shell's other prototype deco back as well. Also in that assortment was "Double Pretender Megatron," which of all things brought back the [[Grand Maximus]] Pretender shell (see above), with the inner robots' decoes based on other canceled toy redecoes... though as that shell mold was never designed with the two smaller toys in mind, they need some finagling to fit in there.
{{--}}

===''Power of the Primes''===
*'''Prime Masters''' (2017–2018)
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Wave 1'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Liege Maximo#Power of the Primes|Liege Maximo]] (w/ [[Skullgrin#PowerOfThePrimes|Skullgrin]] Decoy Armor)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Micronus Prime#Power of the Primes|Micronus]] (w/ [[Cloudburst#Power of the Primes|Cloudburst]] Decoy Armor)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Vector Prime#Power of the Primes|Vector Prime]] (w/ [[Metalhawk (G1)#Power of the Primes|Metalhawk]] Decoy Armor)}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Wave 2'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Maccadam#Power of the Primes|Alchemist Prime]] (w/ [[Submarauder (G1)#Generations|Submarauder]] Decoy Armor)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Alpha Trion/toys#Power of the Primes|Alpha Trion]] (w/ [[Landmine (G1)#Power of the Primes|Landmine]] Decoy Armor)}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Wave 3'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[The Fallen/toys#Power of the Primes|Megatronus]] (w/ [[Bomb-Burst (G1)#Power of the Primes|Bomb-Burst]] Decoy Armor)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Quintus Prime#Power of the Primes|Quintus Prime]] (w/ [[Bludgeon (G1)#Power of the Primes|Decepticon Bludgeon]] Decoy Armor)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Solus Prime#Power of the Primes|Solus Prime]] (w/ [[Octopunch (G1)#Power of the Primes|Octopunch]] Decoy Armor)}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"|
|
|width="20%" valign="top" rowspan="2"|[[File:TF-POTP-Prime-Master-Vector-Prime-with-Metalhawk.jpg|thumb|Vector Prime w/ Metalhawk "Decoy Armor"]][[File:POTP-Prime-Master-Solus-Octopunch.jpg|right|thumb|Solus Prime w/ Octopunch "Decoy Armor"]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
{{main|Prime Master}}

The single-packed Prime Masters of ''Power of the Primes'' are micro-figures (compatible with the prior year's [[Titan Master]]-based toys), designed to resemble the inner robots of original Pretender characters, and come with small versions of their corresponding Pretender shells... but are ''not'' actually those Pretender characters, and are instead members of The [[Thirteen]], and transform into [[Matrix (disambiguation)|Matrix]] cores featuring their Prime symbol. Nowhere on the packaging are they called "Pretenders", yet the "Decoy Armor" shells are called by the original Pretender names. Confused yet?

The Decoy Armor shells also transform into weaponry for large toys to use; blasters for the Autobot figures and melee weapons for the Decepticons.

Several other Prime Master robots were released as pack-ins with larger toys, but those are either redecoes or retoolings of existing Prime Masters (the new parts are not based on any Pretenders either), and none came with Decoy Armor. A ninth Decoy Armor mold, based on [[Waverider]], was revealed as part of the promotional buildup to [[TakaraTomy]]'s ''[[Transformers Legends (franchise)|Legends]]'' [[Grand Maximus#Legends|Grand Maximus]], to be added to the toy if the set got 3000 pre-orders... but ultimately, that goal was not met so the shell was never released.
|}
{{--}}

==Notes==
* The genesis of the Pretenders concept is an odd one. Hasbro came to Takara with an aborted concept, a 12" barbarian figure with a (non-transforming) robot figure hidden inside, and requested it be reworked into the Transformers line specifically to compete with Mattel's ''{{w|Masters of the Universe}}'', presumably with Hasbro working under the (''very'' mistaken, as it turned out) assumption that the ''He-Man'' line would see a resurgence after 1987's ''{{w|Masters of the Universe (1987 film)|Masters of the Universe feature film}}''. This request included the caveats that Pretenders be priced roughly the same as ''Masters of the Universe'' figures (leading to a very limited budget) and that any robot could fit into any shell (a gimmick that still mostly applies to the final large Pretender figures, but was never advertised), creating a design conundrum on several fronts. These factors all led to the spindly, minimally transforming figures in bulbous shells we know today. The initial three shells, Landmine, Waverider, and Cloudburst, already existed as concept sketches from Hasbro, possibly for another line or iteration of the barbarian concept that never got off the ground. The Pretender Vehicles and Beasts were created internally by the Takara and pitched to Hasbro later.<ref>''[[Transformers Generations 2012]]'', p. 70</ref>
* After those first three shells, Takara had more leeway, taking inspiration from ''{{w|Saint Seiya}}'' for the remaining large Autobot shells, hence the animal motifs, and ''{{w|Dungeons & Dragons}}'' and horror films for all the Decepticon shells. Wanting to get a bit of ''Henshin Cyborg'' in the mix, the Transformers design team asked the original ''Henshin Cyborg'' sculptor to handle the first shell prototype.<ref>''[[Transformers Generations 2012]]'', p. 70</ref>
[[File:TwinTwistPretenderConcept.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb|..."Drillrider" just didn't sound right.]]
* The 1988 Decepticon Pretender [[character model]]s in the [[Marvel Comics|Marvel]] comics were straight-up, less-detailed repurposings of [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] concept art by [[Masakatsu Saito]], rather than [[Marvel Productions]]/[[Toei Animation|Toei]]-original models. This was likely done to cut down on the time it takes to design an entire set of character model sheets, so that the comics could still release on time.
** To be fair, the cartoon had also long since finished by this point, and only a select few characters were still receiving actual character model sheets, made mostly for the purpose of toy commercials, with some not even appearing in said commercials at all (e.g. the [[Sparkabot]]s). Toei had also moved on by this point, so all models that were being designed, were made solely by Marvel Productions (for the commercials and the comics), and Marvel Comics artists (for the comics) and weren't receiving any extensive revisions from the ever-fussy Toei.
** Only three of the Marvel-featured Decepticon Pretenders are known to have been designed by Masakatsu Saito ([[Bomb-Burst (G1)|Bomb-Burst]], [[Skullgrin]] and [[Submarauder (G1)|Submarauder]]). Whether [[Bugly (G1)|Bugly]], [[Finback]] and [[Iguanus (G1)|Iguanus]], or the [[Mayhem Attack Squad]] Pretenders' designs were also taken from Masakatsu's artwork is unknown; he did handle all other Pretenders released outside of Japan, such as the Classic and Ultra Pretenders, so it's a pretty safe bet.
** Additionally, the back-of-the-box artwork for the [[Ultra Pretender]]s appears to use Masakatsu's concept artwork for [[Roadblock (G1)|Roadblock]] as a basis. Ironically, there ''was'' a Marvel Productions character model that existed for this character used in the commercials.
* Given that both the Decepticon and Autobot Pretenders were meant to be a disguise to ''avoid arousing suspicion'' from the other side, it's never addressed just how a bunch of 25-foot tall "humans" or monstrous alien-looking figures were meant to blend in anonymously with their everyday surroundings, without arousing hostile/defensive reactions, even if they didn't superficially appear as Transformers.
* Despite the fact that nearly all of the toys split front/back, most Marvel Comics portrayals of the Pretenders show the shells splitting side-to-side down the middle – presumably because having the hidden robot bursting out the shell's chest as if from a rupturing cocoon is more dramatic visually than them swinging it open like a mummy or sidling out edgeways.
* In the Marvel Comics, it may have been intended that only the Decepticon Pretenders with wings on their Pretender shells could [[flight|fly]] with their shells on. In their [[Pretender to the Throne!|first appearance]] they are all flying, but it sort of looks like Bomb-Burst and Bugly were supposed to be carrying the others (maybe something went wrong with the art?). [[King Con!|Later]], Scorponok specifically ordered Bomb-Burst and Bugly to fly Iguanus around.
* ''[[Transformers: The Ultimate Guide]]'' categorizes humanoid Pretender shells into three types: Human shells with thermostatic plating such as Cloudburst's are "Space-Defense Pretender Shells"; monstrous humanoid shells like Bomb-Burst's are called "Predator-Class Pretender Shells"; and shells like Bludgeon's are "Warrior-Grade Pretender Shells".
* [[Twin Twist (G1)|Twin Twist]] has been found in a piece of Pretender concept art, which was likely used to pitch the Pretender toy concept. Given that a large number of the first Pretenders transform similarly to Twin Twist (bend over at the waist), it seems to have been a successful conceptual model.
* In most parts of Europe, the second wave of the large 1988 Pretenders was never released.
* Not to be confused with [[reverse-pretender technology]], where a human disguises themself as a Transformer.
* The [[fusion creature]]s from ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)|Transformers Animated]]'' are modeled after the Pretenders Bomb-Burst and Submarauder.

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Pretender''' (プリテンダー ''Puritendā'')
*''Hungarian:'' '''Színlelő''' ("Pretender")
*''Mandarin:'' '''Yǐnzhě Zhànshì''' (隐者战士, "Pretender Force")

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[http://www.toyarchive.com/Transformers/Prototypes/PretendersDoubleBC96Displ.html Some photos] of unreleased Double Pretenders from [http://www.toyarchive.com/Transformers/Prototypes/Prototypes.html SUPER TOY ARCHIVE]

[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) technology]]
[[Category:Pretenders| ]]
[[Category:Super-God Masterforce subgroups]]
[[Category:Victory subgroups]]
[[Category:Mechanical suits]]

Swamp of the Scorpion

2026-05-09T23:12:22Z

Velvet Android: /* Notes */

{{comicstory
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|next=Desert of Danger
|prev=Highway Clash
|image=Corgi-5-Swamp of the Scorpion.jpg
|caption=
|title="Swamp of the Scorpion"
|publisher=[[Corgi Books]]
|published=Great Britain
|imprint=Young Corgi Adventure/Adventure Game Books
|date=1987
|writers=[[Dave Morris]]
|illustrator=[[Bob Harvey]] (interior pencils and cover painting)
|pagecount=72pp
|ISBN=ISBN 0 552 525014
}}

'''[[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] plans to steal from a [[oil|oil rig]] to fuel the Decepticons' plans of conquest. You must team up with the Autobot [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] to save your home planet of [[Nebulos]]!'''
==Synopsis==
{{anchor|page 1}}
;'''Page 1'''

[[You]] are a young [[Nebulan]]. You work as a technician on an oil rig which is built on the edge of the great swamp that covers much of the southern continent of [[Nebulos]]. An important job, as this rig taps into the [[oil]] deposits that supply most of the planet’s fuel needs. One evening, at the end of the week, when the rest of your coworkers have already left for the Nebulan "weekend," you notice a flashing light in the radio room. Someone is attempting to initiate contact with the oil rig.

'''''Answer the radio?'' [[#page 7|page 7]]'''

'''''Ignore the incoming message?'' [[#page 35|page 35]]'''

{{anchor|page 7}}
:;Page 7
:''(From [[#page 1|page 1]])''

:'''''You answer the radio.'''''
:Once you answer the call, the symbol of the heroic Autobots appears on the viewscreen. You hear a voice that identifies itself as [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]], and requests immediate assistance. The Autobot has crash-landed in the swamp, and is rapidly sinking in quicksand. You jot down Highbrow’s coordinates. Though he is only a few kilometres away, the situation seems very urgent.

:'''''Head out right away to come to Highbrow’s aid?'' [[#page 15|page 15]]'''

:'''''Attempt to find other people to go with you first?'' [[#page 23|page 23]]'''

{{anchor|page 15}}
::;Page 15
::''(From [[#page 7|page 7]] or [[#page 23|page 23]])''

::'''''You head out to rescue Highbrow immediately.'''''
::You grab a [[hover-scull]] from storage, to easily skim over the swamp’s rough terrain. It is nearly sunset when you locate the sinking Autobot, and you find him submerged almost all the way to his head in the quicksand. If you do not act quickly, he will sink forever.

::'''''Hover over Highbrow and try to pull him out of the quicksand?'' [[#page 36|page 36]]'''

::'''''Fetch the end of some creepers for him to grab onto?'' [[#page 42|page 42]]'''

::'''''Try pushing a log out to him so he can haul himself free?'' [[#page 49|page 49]]'''

{{anchor|page 36}}
:::;Page 36
:::''(From [[#page 15|page 15]])''

:::'''''You hover over Highbrow and attempt to pull him out of the quicksand.'''''
:::Using a rope to secure Highbrow’s head to the scull, and set your vehicle’s jets to full throttle. But the scull’s jets are not powerful enough to haul Highbrow out of the quicksand, and he continues to sink. The mud is up to his mouth now.

:::'''''Fetch the end of some creepers for Highbrow to grab onto?'' [[#page 42|page 42]]'''

:::'''''Push a log out to Highbrow so he can haul himself free?'' [[#page 56|page 56]]'''

{{anchor|page 42}}
::::;Page 42
::::''(From [[#page 15|page 15]] or [[#page 36|page 36]])''

::::'''''You fetch some creepers for Highbrow to grab onto.'''''
::::These plants are nearly as strong as steel cables. You choose two of which look particularly thick, and pull them over towards the sinking Autobot. He struggles to grasp the creepers, but once he has them firmly in his hands, he is able to haul himself out of the mud pit, and assume his helicopter mode. '''[[#page 64|page 64]]'''

{{anchor|page 64}}
::::;Page 64
::::''(From [[#page 42|page 42]] or [[#page 49|page 49]])''

::::Highbrow notices that the wind generated by his twin rotors is too powerful for you to stand, and so finds a patch of firm ground to land onto and resume his robot mode. Highbrow apologizes, and notices that your hover-scull was damaged by his rotor-draft. You assure him that you can fix the device later, and that you are simply glad that he is no longer in danger. Highbrow sincerely thanks you for rescuing him, and asks if you are willing to lend him a helping hand once more.

::::'''''Tell Highbrow you are willing to help?'' [[#page 8|page 8]]'''

::::'''''Ask Highbrow how he came to be stuck in the quicksand first?'' [[#page 16|page 16]]'''

::::'''''Ask Highbrow why he’s here first?'' [[#page 22|page 22]]'''

{{anchor|page 8}}
:::::;Page 8
:::::''(From [[#page 16|page 16]] or [[#page 22|page 22]] or [[#page 64|page 64]] or [[#page 67|page 67]])''

:::::'''''You tell Highbrow you are ready to help him.'''''
:::::You ask the Autobot to fill you in on what is going on, and how you can help. In response, Highbrow opens a storage compartment built into his leg. He tells you that any one of these items can help you function as a very effective assistant. But he warns you that the items are bulky, and you shouldn’t attempt to carry more than one. Additionally, if you do choose to carry one of these items, they risk impeding your ability to quickly progress through the swamp. Which (if any) of the items will you take?

:::::'''''A radio transmitter?'' [[#page 50|page 50]]'''

:::::'''''A Transformer detector?'' [[#page 43|page 43]]'''

:::::'''''An electronic circuit-jammer?'' [[#page 57|page 57]]'''

:::::'''''A [[laser cannon]]?'' [[#page 65|page 65]]'''

:::::'''''None of the items?'' [[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 50}}
::::::;Page 50
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]])''

::::::'''''You take the radio transmitter.'''''
::::::The device is nearly as big as you are. Highbrow explains that it is atomically powered in order for it to penetrate the foil leaves of the jungle. The radio needs to be so large in order to safely shield its user from its power source. You strap the radio onto your back, and Highbrow tells you that you may use it to signal him at any time. '''[[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 70}}
[[File:Swamp of the Scorpion Highbrow.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1]]
::::::;Page 70
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]] or [[#page 43|page 43]] or [[#page 50|page 50]] or [[#page 57|page 57]] or [[#page 65|page 65]])''

::::::Highbrow explains that he has been sent to investigate and halt nearby Decepticon activity before any innocent civilians are put in harm’s way. His fellow Autobot [[Brainstorm (G1)|Brainstorm]] was to accompany him, but Brainstorm overheated his power-lines and had to stop at a nearby city for repairs. [[Gort|Grot]]{{sic}}, Highbrow’s Nebulan companion, stayed behind to help Brainstorm. [[Arcana]], the Autobot-Nebulan alliance’s biomechanics engineer, was able to build Highbrow a spare head for him to use while his [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] partner is away. Although you are a little confused by the enormous influx of new information that Highbrow is delivering, you understand the general idea of the situation at hand. You are to be Higbrow’s temporary Nebulan partner; you won’t transform to become his head, but can help Highbrow on other important tasks he wouldn’t be able to accomplish on his own.

::::::'''''Suggest that Highbrow take to the air while you reconnoitre on foot?'' [[#page 2|page 2]]'''

::::::'''''Suggest that you both get airborne?'' [[#page 9|page 9]]'''

::::::'''''Suggest you both explore the swamp on foot?'' [[#page 17|page 17]]'''

{{anchor|page 2}}
:::::::;Page 2
:::::::''(From [[#page 70|page 70]])''

:::::::'''''Highbrow takes to the air while you explore the swamp on foot.'''''
:::::::Because, like most Nebulan life-forms, the jungle’s foliage has a silicate metabolism, Highbrow’s sensors cannot penetrate it. You will explore the swamp on foot, and call to Highbrow for help if ever you need it. As Highbrow soars higher in his helicopter mode, he warns you not to try and take on the Decepticons on your own. '''[[#page 24|page 24]]'''

{{anchor|page 24}}
:::::::;Page 24
:::::::''(From [[#page 2|page 2]] or [[#page 9|page 9]])''

:::::::You move quickly through the jungle while Highbrow tracks your movements as best he can from the air. About an hour into your search, you see a light approaching you, accompanied by the sound of a small motor. You deduce that there is a hovercraft coming towards you.

:::::::'''''Do you have the radio, and wish to use it to call Highbrow?'' [[#page 31|page 31]]'''

:::::::'''''Do you have the laser cannon, and want to get ready to fire it at whoever is approaching?'' [[#page 44|page 44]]'''

:::::::'''''Do you not have, or don’t want to use, either of these items?'' [[#page 38|page 38]]'''

{{anchor|page 31}}
::::::::;Page 31
::::::::''(From [[#page 24|page 24]])''

::::::::'''''You use the radio to call Highbrow.'''''
::::::::You tell your Autobot companion about the hovercraft as quietly as possible, and he soon answers that he can see the incoming vehicle from his viewpoint. Highbrow tells you he has cut his rotors, and is now gliding down in order to take the hovercraft’s driver by surprise. Two Nebulans then enter the clearing before you; a tall lordly figure and his thuggish henchman. The lord draws a [[Plasma blaster|plasma gun]] and points it towards you. You realize that you do not have the time to turn and run before he pulls the trigger. '''[[#page 54|page 54]]'''

{{anchor|page 54}}
::::::::;Page 54
::::::::''(From [[#page 31|page 31]])''

::::::::Suddenly, the two Nebulans are knocked unconscious after being hit by a painful shower of luminous raindrops. Highbrow, having changed to robot mode in mid-air, lands next to you, and tells you that the projectiles that hit your aggressors were courtesy of his [[Acid rainmaker rifle|corrosive rainmaker rifles]]. '''[[#page 47|page 47]]'''

{{anchor|page 47}}
::::::::;Page 47
::::::::''(From [[#page 32|page 32]] or [[#page 54|page 54]])''

::::::::Looking over the unconscious Nebulans, Highbrow identifies them as the evil [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] and [[Krunk]]. He notes that Krunk is especially nasty, having been [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] to the Decepticon [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]]. And Zarak’s presence indicates that whatever the Decepticons are up to, it must be something important. You ask Highbrow what you should do with your prisonners? '''[[#page 62|page 62]]'''

{{anchor|page 62}}
::::::::;Page 62
::::::::''(From [[#page 47|page 47]])''

::::::::Highbrow tells you his plan while he repairs the evil Nebulan’s hovercraft. While up in the air, he spotted a city. He has concluded that it is a Decepticon base, and where Zarak and Krunk were headed towards it. Highbrow ties and gags Zarak and Krunk, props them up on the once-more functional hovercraft, and guides it forwards towards the city as a makeshift decoy. Zarak wakes up on route, but can only grunt indignantly. Less than a quarter of an hour later, you have reached the city. '''[[#page 68|page 68]]'''

{{anchor|page 68}}
::::::::;Page 68
::::::::''(From [[#page 62|page 62]])''

::::::::The city is a sprawling complex of purple and green metal. The Nebulan [[Grax]] waits at the base of a ramp leading into the city. Highbrow tells you that he is a unscrupulous industrialist who sees the Autobots as a threat to free enterprise. Seeing the incoming hovercraft’s light piercing the night, Grax greets his master, Lord Zarak. Two Decepticons emerge from the city; [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]] and Snapdragon. Highbrow tells you that though the two robots will be more difficult to deal with, taking care of Grax will be an easy job. He uses a nearby log to jam the hovercraft’s accelerator full on. Not expecting this turn of events, Grax is knocked into the city’s metal wall by the hovercraft. '''[[#page 5|page 5]]'''

{{anchor|page 5}}
::::::::;Page 5
::::::::''(From [[#page 48|page 48]] or [[#page 68|page 68]])''

::::::::Recognizing the incoming Highbrow, Skullcruncher and Snapdragon spring into action. Snapdragon unleashes a blast of his [[Gyro gun|gyro-gun]] onto Highbrow before the Autobot can use his own weapons, causing Highbrow to collapse dizzily to the ground. Meanwhile, the Nebulans have recovered. Krunk and Grax join their respective Decepticon companions, and Zarak rushes into the city, calling for [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] to awaken and destroy his enemies. The entire city then rises up and transforms into a gigantic robot scorpion. With Highbrow not yet recovered from the Decepticon’s attack, it’s up to you to make the next move.

::::::::'''''Do you have a laser cannon?'' [[#page 12|page 12]]'''

::::::::'''''Have you found a magnetic pistol in an underground ruin?'' [[#page 58|page 58]]'''

::::::::'''''Do you have neither the cannon nor the pistol?'' [[#page 20|page 20]]'''

{{anchor|page 12}}
:::::::::;Page 12
:::::::::''(From [[#page 5|page 5]])''

:::::::::'''''You ready your laser cannon.'''''
:::::::::Scorponok and Snapdragon are your nearest targets. Which one will you fire towards?

:::::::::'''''Scorponok?'' [[#page 27|page 27]]'''

:::::::::'''''Snapdragon?'' [[#page 33|page 33]]'''

{{anchor|page 27}}
::::::::::;Page 27
::::::::::''(From [[#page 12|page 12]])''

::::::::::'''''You fire on Scorponok...'''''
::::::::::Only for the blast to ineffectually glance off his metal armour. You do not get the chance for a second shot as Scorponok’s pincer closes in around you...

::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 33}}
::::::::::;Page 33
::::::::::''(From [[#page 12|page 12]])''

::::::::::'''''You fire on Snapdragon...'''''
::::::::::Just as he is readying another blast from his gyro-gun. In a stroke of luck, Snapdragon is thrown off-balance by the shot and blasts Scorponok with his gyro-gun’s disorienting ray. Scorponok loses his balance and topples onto Skullcruncher, pinning him to the ground. Highbrow recovers, and while Snapdragon is still struggling from being hit, lays a mighty punch onto the Decepticon. You cheer as Snapdragon collapses into the mud. '''[[#page 72|page 72]]'''

{{anchor|page 72}}
::::::::::;Page 72
::::::::::''(From [[#page 14|page 14]] or [[#page 33|page 33]] or [[#page 58|page 58]])''

::::::::::Once his fellow Autobots arrive to help him with the battle’s aftermath, Highbrow returns you to the oil rig. You ask Highbrow what will happen to the Decepticon captive, only to be informed that they will be exchanged for Autobot prisoners of war. Highbrow tells you that today’s victory was quite minor, but you tell him that it counted for a lot more than Highbrow gives it credit. The Decepticons have been stopped from gaining access to the local oil wells, and possibly killing all those who work at the rig. This cheers Highbrow up, who in turn tells you that victory wouldn’t have been possible without your help.

::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 58}}
[[File:Swamp of the Scorpion Skullcruncher attacks.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb]]
:::::::::;Page 58
:::::::::''(From [[#page 5|page 5]] or [[#page 37|page 37]])''

:::::::::'''''You ready your magnetic pistol.'''''
:::::::::Aiming at Snapdragon, you pull the weapon’s trigger. Snapdragon is flung against Scorponok with tremendous force. While you hold your magnetic ray in Scorponok and Snapdragon’s direction, Highbrow rushes forwards to deal with Skullcruncher. Highbrow jams one of his rainmaker rifles into Skullcruncher’s alligator maw, causing its ammo pod to burst. A torrent of corrosive acid streams down Skullcruncher’s throat, prompting him to revert to robot mode. Highbrow then holds Skullcruncher at gunpoint with his second rifle, and forces the Decepticon to surrender. '''[[#page 72|page 72]]'''

{{anchor|page 20}}
:::::::::;Page 20
:::::::::''(From [[#page 5|page 5]])''

:::::::::'''''You find yourself without a weapon with which you can help Highbrow.'''''
:::::::::The ground quakes as Scorponok edges closer. You run to Highbrow’s side, but are too small and weak to help him get up. You look up to see Lord Zarak at Scorponok’s controls. He makes one of Scorponok’s pinchers reach towards you. You cannot get out of the way without leaving Highbrow behind. The pincher begins to close around you. This is...

:::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 44}}
::::::::;Page 44
::::::::''(From [[#page 24|page 24]])''

::::::::'''''You get ready to fire the laser cannon towards whoever is approaching.'''''
::::::::When the hovercraft comes into view, you see that a tall Nebulan nobleman and his guard are sitting within. They address one another as "Lord Zarak" and "Krunk," respectively. When he sees you, armed with the laser cannon, Zarak orders Krunk to accelerate forwards. He means to run you down before you can use the laser! '''[[#page 32|page 32]]'''

{{anchor|page 32}}
::::::::;Page 32
::::::::''(From [[#page 10|page 10]] or [[#page 44|page 44]])''

::::::::You have difficulty pointing the heavy laser cannon towards the incoming hovercraft as it speeds towards you. Then, a flash of sapphire-blue laser light shoots out of your weapon, melting the front portion of the hovercraft. The hovercraft’s motor cuts, the vehicle spins out of control, and hits a tree-trunk, sending its occupants flying out. '''[[#page 47|page 47]]'''

{{anchor|page 38}}
::::::::;Page 38
::::::::''(From [[#page 24|page 24]])''

::::::::'''''Since you do not know who is in the incoming vehicle, you decide to stay out of sight.'''''
::::::::Running on, you find a crumbling stone doorway half-sunk in the swamp. It is one of Nebulos’s ancient ruins. You look over your shoulder and see that the hovercraft is still headed in your direction. You could hide in the ruins, but the darkness beyond the doorway has an ominous feel to it…

::::::::'''''Hide in the ruins?'' [[#page 52|page 52]]'''

::::::::'''''Decide against entering the ancient stone structure?'' [[#page 60|page 60]]'''

{{anchor|page 52}}
:::::::::;Page 52
:::::::::''(From [[#page 38|page 38]])''

:::::::::'''''You step into the ruins to hide.'''''
:::::::::The inside of the ancient structure has a gloomy ambience to it, which sets your nerves on edge. The hovercraft speeds past the ruins’ entrance. You catch a brief glimpse of its occupants; a nobleman and his bodyguard. Once the noise of the hovercraft’s engine fades away, you notice another sound; a ghostly wailing echoing out from somewhere within the ruins.

:::::::::'''''Investigate the noise?'' [[#page 66|page 66]]'''

:::::::::'''''Exit the ruins immediately?'' [[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 66}}
::::::::::;Page 66
::::::::::''(From [[#page 52|page 52]])''

::::::::::'''''You investigate the ghostly wailing.'''''
::::::::::Driven on by curiosity, you step deeper into the ancient tunnel before you. After what seems like an eternity, you emerge from the tunnel into a large underground chamber. A grey-blue light shines through cracks in the walls before you, and the moaning sound has become louder.

::::::::::'''''Return to the entrance and continue exploring the swamp?'' [[#page 3|page 3]]'''

::::::::::'''''If you have the radio, do you call Highbrow?'' [[#page 11|page 11]]'''

::::::::::'''''Press forwards into the ruins?'' [[#page 19|page 19]]'''

{{anchor|page 3}}
:::::::::::;Page 3
:::::::::::''(From [[#page 11|page 11]] or [[#page 26|page 26]] or [[#page 34|page 34]] or [[#page 51|page 51]] or [[#page 52|page 52]] or [[#page 66|page 66]])''

:::::::::::'''''You head out of the ruins and continue to explore the swamp.'''''
:::::::::::Trudging through the marshy terrain, you eventually begin to see lights shining through the trees. You signal up to Highbrow and move to investigate. In a clearing before you is a city of purple and green metal. No-one seems to be around.

:::::::::::'''''Enter the city?'' [[#page 41|page 41]]'''

:::::::::::'''''Ask Highbrow to join you?'' [[#page 48|page 48]]'''

{{anchor|page 41}}
::::::::::::;Page 41
::::::::::::''(From [[#page 3|page 3]])''

::::::::::::'''''You enter the city.'''''
::::::::::::Did Highbrow give you the Transformer detector?

::::::::::::'''''Yes.'' [[#page 55|page 55]]'''

::::::::::::'''''No.'' [[#page 63|page 63]]'''

{{anchor|page 55}}
:::::::::::::;Page 55
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 41|page 41]])''

:::::::::::::'''''The Transformer detector alerts you of a nearby Decepticon.'''''
:::::::::::::It’s the city itself! You decide against continuing inside of the city, and signal to Highbrow. He comes down to join you. '''[[#page 48|page 48]]'''

{{anchor|page 48}}
:::::::::::::;Page 48
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 3|page 3]] or [[#page 6|page 6]] or [[#page 40|page 40]] or [[#page 55|page 55]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You watch the city from the cover of a fern thicket.'''''
:::::::::::::Minutes later, you see two robots lumber into the clearing. Each of the robots is accompanied by a Nebulan, with a third Nebulan leading the group. Highbrow informs you of their identity; the leader is Lord Zarak, the robots are Decepticons called Snapdragon and Skullcruncher. Snapdragon is accompanied by Krunk, and Skullcruncher is accompanied by the industrialist, Grax. If Grax is involved, Hightower continues, it must signify that they are after the nearby [[oil]]. Highbrow then comes to a snap decision, and rushes out into the clearing. '''[[#page 5|page 5]]'''

{{anchor|page 63}}
:::::::::::::;Page 63
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 41|page 41]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You rush into the city.'''''
:::::::::::::You step into a control room, and begin to look for clues to the Decepticons’ plan. When you accidentally brush against a bank of switches, an overhead screen lights up. On it are the words "Transform Sequence - Manual Override." Under the screen, you notice a red button with a safety over-lock.

:::::::::::::'''''Press the button?'' [[#page 13|page 13]]'''

:::::::::::::'''''If you have the radio transmitter, do you decide to contact Highbrow first?'' [[#page 69|page 69]]'''

:::::::::::::'''''If you have the circuit jammer, do you wish to use it now?'' [[#page 37|page 37]]'''

:::::::::::::'''''Leave the city immediately instead?'' [[#page 6|page 6]]'''

{{anchor|page 13}}
::::::::::::::;Page 13
::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 63|page 63]])''

::::::::::::::'''''You press the red button.'''''
::::::::::::::The onscreen message begins to flash as a siren begins to wail. You decide to run towards the exit as the city begins to quake, only for a steel door to close before you. It turns out that the city itself is the giant Decepticon Scorponok, and the button you just pressed has initiated his transformation to robot mode. You are now trapped, and about to be crushed between shifting joints and gears as Scorponok assumes his robot form.

::::::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 69}}
::::::::::::::;Page 69
::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 63|page 63]])''

::::::::::::::'''''You use the radio transmitter to contact Highbrow.'''''
::::::::::::::You ask your Autobot friend whether or not you should initiate the transformation sequence. Highbrow warns you against doing so, explaining you are within the giant Decepticon Scorponok. He tells you to get out before his voice trails off to static. Having heard enough to know it is unwise to stay put, you head back for the city’s main ramp. '''[[#page 6|page 6]]'''

{{anchor|page 6}}
::::::::::::::;Page 6
::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 63|page 63]] or [[#page 69|page 69]])''

::::::::::::::You find Highbrow waiting for you outside the city. He tells you that you need not search for the Decepticons any further, as they will soon come to this location. The both of you hide in nearby bushes. '''[[#page 48|page 48]]'''

{{anchor|page 37}}
::::::::::::::;Page 37
::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 63|page 63]])''

::::::::::::::'''''You place the circuit jammer under a control panel.'''''
::::::::::::::You suspect that this "city" is in fact the giant Decepticon Scorponok. If that is the case, the jammer will prevent him from taking part in any battle you and Highbrow might have to fight. You head out of the city to meet up with Highbrow, only to find him surrounded by Snapdragon, Skullcruncher, and their Nebulan companions. Do you have the magnetic pistol from the ancient ruins?

::::::::::::::'''''Yes.'' [[#page 58|page 58]]'''

::::::::::::::'''''No.'' [[#page 21|page 21]]'''

{{anchor|page 21}}
:::::::::::::::;Page 21
:::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 37|page 37]])''

:::::::::::::::Snapdragon takes to the air, and Skullcruncher begins to taunt Highbrow. He notes that if Highbrow takes flight, Snapdragon’s gyro-guns will send him tumbling down, and if he stays ground-bound, he will fall victim to Skullcruncher’s own metal-softening rays.

:::::::::::::::'''''Shout at Highbrow to shoot at Snapdragon?'' [[#page 28|page 28]]'''

:::::::::::::::'''''Tell him to shoot Skullcruncher instead?'' [[#page 14|page 14]]'''

{{anchor|page 28}}
[[File:Swamp of the Scorpion Snapdragon.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb]]
::::::::::::::::;Page 28
::::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 21|page 21]])''

::::::::::::::::'''''You tell Highbrow to shoot at Snapdragon.'''''
::::::::::::::::He complies, and sprays Snapdragon with acid. The Decepticon screeches down and crashes into the undergrowth. Highbrow then turns to strike Skullcruncher next, but the crocodilian Decepticon bathes the Autobot in his metal-softening rays. Skullcruncher then begins to encroach towards Highbrow, telling him he will make a nice chewy meal. You don’t get a chance to help Highbrow, as Snapdragon is behind you, having returned to his robot form after crash-landing. He is scarred by his acid bath, and covered in mud, but still plenty capable of destroying you. As he stoops down to seize you, you realize this is…

::::::::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 14}}
::::::::::::::::;Page 14
::::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 21|page 21]])''

::::::::::::::::'''''You tell Highbrow to shoot at Skullcruncher.'''''
::::::::::::::::Highbrow aims his rifle slightly wide, and waits until Skullcruncher deploys his metal-softening rays to fire. Skullcruncher easily dodges Highbrow’s shot, but in the process his beam lands upon Snapdragon instead of its intended target. His wings and fuselage weakened by Skullcruncher’s beam, Snapdragon plummets down and crashes. Highbrow then sends twin jets of scorching acid into Skullcruncher’s face, causing the Decepticon to buckle and curl up in pain. The battle is won. '''[[#page 72|page 72]]'''

{{anchor|page 11}}
:::::::::::;Page 11
:::::::::::''(From [[#page 66|page 66]])''

:::::::::::'''''You call Highbrow on the radio.'''''
:::::::::::But the radio gives out nothing but a hum and a crackle of static. You are too far below ground, and will have to explore the ruins on your own.

:::::::::::'''''Press on further into the ruins?'' [[#page 19|page 19]]'''

:::::::::::'''''Return outside?'' [[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 19}}
::::::::::::;Page 19
::::::::::::''(From [[#page 11|page 11]] or [[#page 66|page 66]])''

::::::::::::'''''You continue exploring the ruins.'''''
::::::::::::You walk towards a heavy stone door, which slides open as you approach. You are unsure if it is magic, or ancient machinery that made the door move by itself. The moaning rises in pitch, and suddenly a giant spider scuttles forwards through the doorway. The only way to get through the doorway is to get past the giant spider.

::::::::::::'''''If you have the laser cannon, do you wish to use it now?'' [[#page 26|page 26]]'''

::::::::::::'''''Do you try to dodge past the spider into the next room?'' [[#page 51|page 51]]'''

::::::::::::'''''Do you return to the exit?'' [[#page 34|page 34]]'''

{{anchor|page 26}}
:::::::::::::;Page 26
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 19|page 19]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You use the laser cannon against the giant spider.'''''
:::::::::::::Oddly, the laser passes straight through the spider, as though it wasn’t there. A muffled explosion resounds from the room beyond, and the spider disappears. Looking into the next room, you find the burnt-out projector that was projecting the hologram of the spider. The wailing you heard earlier has also stopped, as it was the high-pitched whine of the projector’s power supply. Searching the room, you find a strange pistol that emits a beam of soft white light. Testing it out on scraps of rusted machinery laying about, you discover that this is a magnetic pistol, with the power to magnetize any piece of metal touched by its beam. The magnetic charge it creates is so strong that not even the mighty Autobot [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] could hope to part metal magnetized by this weapon. You pocket the pistol and rush back outside to continue your exploration of the swamp. '''[[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 51}}
:::::::::::::;Page 51
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 19|page 19]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You try to dodge past the spider into the next room.'''''
:::::::::::::To your horror, you slip and tumble directly towards the spider’s glistening mandibles! But when you find yourself on the floor, the spider is nowhere to be seen. You look up and see an image projector set into the far wall. You can clearly see its beam shoot out through the air, and project the holographic image of the spider in the doorway. You further discover that the wailing sound you heard earlier is the high-pitched whine of the projector’s power supply. You search the room and eventually come across an odd pistol. Instead of firing projectiles, it produces a beam of soft white light. Sweeping the beam across the room, you discover its unique property. Whenever the beam touches a piece of metal, it magnetizes it. The charge of the pieces of metal magnetized this way is so great that even the renowned strength of the [[Horrorcon (G1)|Horrorcon]] [[Apeface]] would not be enough to pry them apart. You pocket the pistol and return outside to continue searching the swamp. '''[[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 34}}
:::::::::::::;Page 34
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 19|page 19]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You decide to avoid the spider altogether and return to the exit.'''''
:::::::::::::Racing back through the tunnel, you soon emerge into the cool night air. '''[[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 60}}
:::::::::;Page 60
:::::::::''(From [[#page 38|page 38]])''

:::::::::'''''You remain outside the ruins.'''''
:::::::::You hide nearby in the swamp instead. The hovercraft soon glides into view. Within it are two Nebulans; a tall imperious-looking figure, and his burly, battle-scarred henchman. The grander one orders his subordinate to pause, while they let Highbrow pass overhead. Highbrow is searching the swamp with his searchlight, but fails to spot the hover-car. The grander figure, "Lord Zarak," then orders his henchman to drive towards the "Scorpion Base." When the henchman turns on the vehicle’s, he inadvertently illuminates your hiding spot, bringing you into clear view! '''[[#page 10|page 10]]'''

{{anchor|page 10}}
:::::::::;Page 10
:::::::::''(From [[#page 60|page 60]])''

:::::::::Immediately assuming you are a spy for the Autobots, Zarak orders "Krunk" to deal with you. Krunk throws the hover-car’s joystick forward, veering in your direction. He is going to run you down!

:::::::::'''''Try to dodge aside?'' [[#page 18|page 18]]'''

:::::::::'''''Try throwing yourself flat just before the collision?'' [[#page 25|page 25]]'''

:::::::::'''''If you have the laser cannon, do you wish to use it now?'' [[#page 32|page 32]]'''

{{anchor|page 18}}
::::::::::;Page 18
::::::::::''(From [[#page 10|page 10]] or [[#page 46|page 46]])''

::::::::::'''''You try to dodge the incoming hover-car'''''
::::::::::But you do not move quickly enough! Krunk only needs to nudge the hover-car’s joystick to have you in his sights once more. And you do not have the time to dodge aside on his second pass. As the hover-car’s headlights blind you, your adventure has come to...

::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 25}}
::::::::::;Page 25
::::::::::''(From [[#page 10|page 10]] or [[#page 46|page 46]])''

::::::::::'''''You throw yourself flat just before the hovercraft collides with you.'''''
::::::::::You feel the hovercraft passing over you with a painful jolt. Thankfully, you will have no more than a few bruises for the incident. Krunk and Zarak stop and glance back in your direction. You remain still in the swamp’s muddy water. Zarak congratulates Krunk on killing you, but threatens his goon that any damage done to the vehicle’s paintwork will come out of his pay. They hear Highbrow returning, and quickly depart. Once Zarak and Krunk have fled the scene, you get back up and wave down Highbrow. Seeing what condition you are in, Highbrow transforms and lands next to you. You tell Highbrow what happened. Highbrow tells you that the two criminals you encountered are Lord Zarak, leader of the evil Nebulans, and his bodyguard Krunk. He then decides that the two of you would be better off if you stuck together. '''[[#page 17|page 17]]'''

{{anchor|page 17}}
::::::::::;Page 17
::::::::::''(From [[#page 9|page 9]] or [[#page 25|page 25]] or [[#page 70|page 70]])''

::::::::::'''''The two of you agree to proceed together on foot.'''''
::::::::::Highbrow doesn’t think the two of you will make much headway, as he has to walk slowly in order to avoid pockets of quicksand. Nonetheless, the two of you prefer to play it safe in case you are attacked by Decepticons. '''[[#page 40|page 40]]'''

{{anchor|page 40}}
::::::::::;Page 40
::::::::::''(From [[#page 17|page 17]])''

::::::::::You soon come to a futuristic city made out of purple and green metal inside of a clearing. Pipes are running out of the city and into the ground, as though someone is planning on drilling for oil. Though the city appears as though it is a veritable fortress, no one is manning it currently. Highbrow suggest the two of you wait in hiding until the Decepticons turn up. '''[[#page 48|page 48]]'''

{{anchor|page 9}}
:::::::;Page 9
:::::::''(From [[#page 70|page 70]])''

:::::::'''''You climb into Highbrow’s helicopter cockpit, and take to the air.'''''
:::::::Highbrow turns on a spotlight on his undercarriage so that you can both see better into the swamp as the sun’s light begins to fade. But because of the "organ-metallic" nature of Nebulos’s bioforms, Highbrow’s scanning systems won’t be able to penetrate the canopy bellow. You have difficulty spotting anything from this height yourself. You conclude that one or both of you will have to continue on foot to explore the area properly.

:::::::'''''Should Highbrow set you down and proceed in the air by himself?'' [[#page 24|page 24]]'''

:::::::'''''Should the both of you land and continue your search together?'' [[#page 17|page 17]]'''

{{anchor|page 43}}
::::::;Page 43
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]])''

::::::'''''You take the Transformer detector.'''''
::::::The device consists of several gold hoops. You take it and coil it over your shoulder. Highbrow points out a panel attached to the junction between two hoops. At the moment, the panel reads: "Autobot: HIGHBROW." Highbrow the panel will change accordingly if any other Transformer come into range. '''[[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 57}}
::::::;Page 57
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]])''

::::::'''''You take the electronic circuit jammer.'''''
::::::The device consists of three large steel globes joined by crystalline rods. Highbrow tells you the jammer contains a magnetic limpet that will adhere to the armour of a Transformer. Once in place, the jammer will prevent a Transformer from assuming another mode. He tells you that he once used it against the Decepticon [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] to prevent him from taking flight and battling both himself and Brainstorm. '''[[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 65}}
::::::;Page 65
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]])''

::::::'''''You take the laser cannon.'''''
::::::It is about the size of a bazooka. Highbrow explains that Transformers usually power their weapons off of atomic batteries built into their bodies. This laser cannon has an internal power supply, which is what makes it so heavy. Although the cannon might not be powerful enough to take out any Decepticon, it should buy you some time if you encounter one. '''[[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 16}}
:::::;Page 16
:::::''(From [[#page 64|page 64]])''

:::::'''''You ask Highbrow how he came to be stuck in the quicksand.'''''
:::::Highbrow is embarrassed to admit that he simply lost his balance while he was flying and hit the mud. He admits he was lucky that you came along, and asks once more for your help.

:::::'''''Agree to help Highbrow in any way you can?'' [[#page 8|page 8]]'''

:::::'''''Refuse to help Highbrow any more?'' [[#page 30|page 30]]'''

{{anchor|page 30}}
::::::;Page 30
::::::''(From [[#page 16|page 16]] or [[#page 22|page 22]])''

::::::'''''You refuse to help Highbrow.'''''
::::::You apologize to him, but admit that you don’t think you’d be much help in any case. Highbrow says that you might have been more help than you’d imagine as he begins to lift off. He claims that it is not only strength that wins a battle, and that very few people are without fear. But if one has courage, they can overcome fear, and everything else. You wave goodbye as Highbrow flies away, still convinced that you would not have been much help on his mission. '''[[#page 46|page 46]]'''

{{anchor|page 46}}
::::::;Page 46
::::::''(From [[#page 30|page 30]])''

::::::As you try to make your way back towards the oil rig, you find yourself lost in the swamp. You hear Highbrow flying overhead, continuing his search for the Decepticons. Then, you spot two figures in a hover-car, hiding from Highbrow as he passes overhead. The two Nebulans, calling each other "Krunk" and "Lord Zarak" decide that you are an Autobot spot, and steer their vehicle in your direction. They mean to run you down!

::::::'''''Try to dodge aside?'' [[#page 18|page 18]]'''

::::::'''''Throw yourself flat?'' [[#page 25|page 25]]'''

{{anchor|page 22}}
:::::;Page 22
:::::''(From [[#page 64|page 64]])''

:::::'''''You ask Highbrow what he is doing here.'''''
:::::Highbrow tells you that the Decepticons are after the oil that lies beneath the surrounding jungle. Lord Zarak, leader of the Nebulan collaborators, has ordered them to obtain it. Unlike the Nebulan’s drilling rigs, Decepticon technology has no regard for nature, and will destroy the entire jungle if need be. They are also likely to destroy oil rigs like the one at which you work to prevent the Autobots from obtaining any oil themselves. The situation certainly sounds dire, and you realize that many of your friends that work at the oil rig could be killed if Zarak’s plan is carried out.

:::::'''''Agree to help Highbrow?'' [[#page 8|page 8]]'''

:::::'''''Refuse to help Highbrow?'' [[#page 30|page 30]]'''

{{anchor|page 56}}
::::;Page 56
::::''(From [[#page 36|page 36]])''

::::'''''You push a log towards Highbrow so he can haul himself free.'''''
::::You steer your hover-cull around the edge of the clearing to find a suitable log. You settle on one that is both sturdy and light enough for you to shift. But when you return to Highbrow, you find that he has already sunk beneath the quicksand. Maybe other Autobots will come to rescue him, but your part in this adventure is over.

::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 49}}
:::;Page 49
:::''(From [[#page 15|page 15]])''

:::'''''You try pushing a log to Highbrow so he can haul himself free.'''''
:::You find one that is both sturdy enough for Highbrow to haul himself out, and light enough for you to bring it over to him. You haul one end to him, then anchor the other end by landing the hover-scull onto it. Highbrow begins to free himself from the mire, but the log then slips from under the scull. You are alarmed by this development, but now that Highbrow has his arms free, he is able to deploy his rotor blades, and lift himself out of the mud. '''[[#page 64|page 64]]'''

{{anchor|page 23}}
[[File:Swamp of the Scorpion Nebulans.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1]]
::;Page 23
::''(From [[#page 7|page 7]])''

::'''''You attempt to find others who will help you rescue Highbrow.'''''
::You find a few senior technicians and oilmen playing cards in the rig’s lounge area. But they are so enraptured in their game that they pay you no heed.

::'''''Go rescue Highbrow on your own?'' [[#page 15|page 15]]'''

::'''''Keep badgering your coworkers until they come?'' [[#page 29|page 29]]'''

{{anchor|page 29}}
:::;Page 29
:::''(From [[#page 23|page 23]])''

:::'''''You keep badgering your coworkers.'''''
:::They finally give in, and agree to come along with you to rescue the Autobot in distress. But by the time you arrive at Highbrow’s last coordinates, there is no sign of him. You do not know whether Highbrow sank to the bottom of the quicksand pit, or if he managed to escape on his own. In either case, this is the end of your adventure.

:::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 35}}
:;Page 35
:''(From [[#page 1|page 1]])''

:'''''You ignore the incoming message.'''''
:As you head towards the recreation lounge, a supervisor stops you. He tells you that your coworker, [[Klab]] had to go home sick. He then assigns you to take over his post in the monitoring room. You begrudgingly return to the monitoring room and sit down with a book. Yawning, you wonder what’s the point of security on an oil rig. '''[[#page 39|page 39]]'''

{{anchor|page 39}}
:;Page 39
:''(From [[#page 35|page 35]])''

:You suddenly bolt upright, having fallen asleep while on monitor duty. Looking over the screen before you, you notice that in the supply room are two figures rifling through the stores.

:'''''Alert your coworkers?'' [[#page 53|page 53]]'''

:'''''Go down to the supply room yourself?'' [[#page 61|page 61]]'''

{{anchor|page 53}}
:;Page 53
::''(From [[#page 39|page 39]])''

::'''''You alert the rest of the oil rig.'''''
::But by the time anyone can scramble to stop them, the intruders have left the premises. The Chief Engineer inspects supply room, and finds that all of the [[trilithium power crystal]]s have been stolen. This will hold up drilling by a month. Although the Chief Engineer considers reprimanding you for falling asleep on the job, he admits that at least you did well to raise the alarm as quickly as you did. Although you are spared disciplinary actions, you have also missed out on a great adventure.

::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 61}}
::;Page 61
::''(From [[#page 39|page 39]])''

::'''''You go down to the supply room yourself, pausing only to grab a flashlight.'''''
::Looking through the store room, you find that several crates have gone missing. You sweep your flashlight about the marshlands outside, only for its light to be blotted out by the thick mist that has settled. Then you hear nearing throb of helicopter rotors. You watch as the vehicle drops to hover beside the rig, scanning the marsh with its searchlight. Guessing the helicopter is also looking for the figures who broke into the supply room, you attract its attention by waving your arms. As the helicopter looms nearer, you notice that there is no pilot in the cockpit. '''[[#page 67|page 67]]'''

{{anchor|page 67}}
::;Page 67
::''(From [[#page 61|page 61]])''

::The helicopter lands and transforms into a robot. The robot introduces himself as Highbrow, the electronics and surveillance expert among the Headmaster Autobots. He tells you he knows that a theft has taken place at your oil rig. He had sent out a message earlier, warning that such a thing might happen, but it was not answered. He then arrived on scene too late to apprehend the thieves. Checking the stores, you take note that three crates of expensive trilithium crystals are missing. You realize that you will be in a lot of trouble when your superiors find out you were sleeping while on monitor duty. Highbrow suggests that you should come along with him, and help him recover the stolen crystals, before anyone notices they have gone missing.

::'''''Agree to go along with Highbrow?'' [[#page 8|page 8]]'''

::'''''Tell Highbrow that you should stay behind?'' [[#page 4|page 4]]'''

{{anchor|page 4}}
:::;Page 4
:::''(From [[#page 67|page 67]])''

:::'''''You tell Highbrow that you should stay behind.'''''
:::You explain that although you will be disciplined for allowing the crystals to be stolen, the consequences might be worse if you also abandon your post. You watch Highbrow lumber off into the marsh. You can only wish him luck, as you are sure he must be outnumbered by the evil Decepticons waiting for him in the night.

:::'''THE END'''

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]]

|c2=
*[[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]]
*[[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]]
*[[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]

|h4=[[Nebulan]]s|c4=
*[[You]]
*[[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]]
*[[Krunk]]
*[[Grax]]

|nonumbering=true
}}

==Notes==
*All Transformers' names are printed in [[To sell toys|CAPITAL LETTERS]].
*On [[#page 48|page 48]], you make a reference to the story of Jonah and the whale. Who knew Nebulans were versed in biblical literature?
*Whatever path you choose, you never recover the stolen crystals (if any crystals are stolen at all).
*In all depictions of Highbrow, the highly toy-accurate illustrations always show him with the flip-down panel of his chest opened, showing off his Tech Spec readouts.
*All Nebulans are depicted as being robotic, or as Highbrow describes Nebulon's organisms, "organ-metallic".
*The words "jungle" and "swamp" are used interchangeably throughout the whole book. Maybe on Nebulon they're the same thing?
*The one time Gort's name is mentioned in the book, it is spelt "Grot". Curiously, the identical aberration occurs multiple times in the ''[[Transformers Annual 1987#Errors|Transformers Annual 1987]]'', which was also produced in the UK the same year. Could one could have influenced the other, or did both publications receive the erroneous spelling from the same inaccurate source?
*The Autobots [[Brainstorm (G1)|Brainstorm]] and [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], the Decepticons [[Apeface]] and [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]], and the Nebulans [[Gort|Grot]], [[Arcana]], and [[Klab]] are all mentioned, but do not make an appearance.
*One volume in the wildly popular ''[https://fightingfantasy.fandom.com/wiki/Fighting_Fantasy Fighting Fantasy]'' series of multipath adventure books, published three years before ''Swamp of the Scorpion'', is called, um... ''[https://fightingfantasy.fandom.com/wiki/Scorpion_Swamp_(book) Scorpion Swamp]''. Perhaps the latter was unknown to the producers of the Transformers gamebook, and the alliteration of the same pair of words in both titles was simply too irresistible to each author, independently – but by golly it's a coincidence if so. (There is even an overlap in the shape of ''Swamp of the Scorpion'' artist [[Bob Harvey]], who illustrated several gamebooks in both series – including 1986's ''Demons of the Deep'', the second ''Fighting Fantasy'' title written by ''Scorpion Swamp'' author Steve Jackson.)

===Advertisements===
* At the end of the story is an advert for other Young Corgi book "[[Desert of Danger]]".

[[Category:Generation 1 multipath adventures]]

Swamp of the Scorpion

2026-05-09T19:58:18Z

Velvet Android: /* Notes */ Noting duplication of "Grot" error elsewhere. Noting similarity of title to Fighting Fantasy gamebook.

{{comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[The Transformers Adventure Game Books]]''
|next=Desert of Danger
|prev=Highway Clash
|image=Corgi-5-Swamp of the Scorpion.jpg
|caption=
|title="Swamp of the Scorpion"
|publisher=[[Corgi Books]]
|published=Great Britain
|imprint=Young Corgi Adventure/Adventure Game Books
|date=1987
|writers=[[Dave Morris]]
|illustrator=[[Bob Harvey]] (interior pencils and cover painting)
|pagecount=72pp
|ISBN=ISBN 0 552 525014
}}

'''[[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] plans to steal from a [[oil|oil rig]] to fuel the Decepticons' plans of conquest. You must team up with the Autobot [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] to save your home planet of [[Nebulos]]!'''
==Synopsis==
{{anchor|page 1}}
;'''Page 1'''

[[You]] are a young [[Nebulan]]. You work as a technician on an oil rig which is built on the edge of the great swamp that covers much of the southern continent of [[Nebulos]]. An important job, as this rig taps into the [[oil]] deposits that supply most of the planet’s fuel needs. One evening, at the end of the week, when the rest of your coworkers have already left for the Nebulan "weekend," you notice a flashing light in the radio room. Someone is attempting to initiate contact with the oil rig.

'''''Answer the radio?'' [[#page 7|page 7]]'''

'''''Ignore the incoming message?'' [[#page 35|page 35]]'''

{{anchor|page 7}}
:;Page 7
:''(From [[#page 1|page 1]])''

:'''''You answer the radio.'''''
:Once you answer the call, the symbol of the heroic Autobots appears on the viewscreen. You hear a voice that identifies itself as [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]], and requests immediate assistance. The Autobot has crash-landed in the swamp, and is rapidly sinking in quicksand. You jot down Highbrow’s coordinates. Though he is only a few kilometres away, the situation seems very urgent.

:'''''Head out right away to come to Highbrow’s aid?'' [[#page 15|page 15]]'''

:'''''Attempt to find other people to go with you first?'' [[#page 23|page 23]]'''

{{anchor|page 15}}
::;Page 15
::''(From [[#page 7|page 7]] or [[#page 23|page 23]])''

::'''''You head out to rescue Highbrow immediately.'''''
::You grab a [[hover-scull]] from storage, to easily skim over the swamp’s rough terrain. It is nearly sunset when you locate the sinking Autobot, and you find him submerged almost all the way to his head in the quicksand. If you do not act quickly, he will sink forever.

::'''''Hover over Highbrow and try to pull him out of the quicksand?'' [[#page 36|page 36]]'''

::'''''Fetch the end of some creepers for him to grab onto?'' [[#page 42|page 42]]'''

::'''''Try pushing a log out to him so he can haul himself free?'' [[#page 49|page 49]]'''

{{anchor|page 36}}
:::;Page 36
:::''(From [[#page 15|page 15]])''

:::'''''You hover over Highbrow and attempt to pull him out of the quicksand.'''''
:::Using a rope to secure Highbrow’s head to the scull, and set your vehicle’s jets to full throttle. But the scull’s jets are not powerful enough to haul Highbrow out of the quicksand, and he continues to sink. The mud is up to his mouth now.

:::'''''Fetch the end of some creepers for Highbrow to grab onto?'' [[#page 42|page 42]]'''

:::'''''Push a log out to Highbrow so he can haul himself free?'' [[#page 56|page 56]]'''

{{anchor|page 42}}
::::;Page 42
::::''(From [[#page 15|page 15]] or [[#page 36|page 36]])''

::::'''''You fetch some creepers for Highbrow to grab onto.'''''
::::These plants are nearly as strong as steel cables. You choose two of which look particularly thick, and pull them over towards the sinking Autobot. He struggles to grasp the creepers, but once he has them firmly in his hands, he is able to haul himself out of the mud pit, and assume his helicopter mode. '''[[#page 64|page 64]]'''

{{anchor|page 64}}
::::;Page 64
::::''(From [[#page 42|page 42]] or [[#page 49|page 49]])''

::::Highbrow notices that the wind generated by his twin rotors is too powerful for you to stand, and so finds a patch of firm ground to land onto and resume his robot mode. Highbrow apologizes, and notices that your hover-scull was damaged by his rotor-draft. You assure him that you can fix the device later, and that you are simply glad that he is no longer in danger. Highbrow sincerely thanks you for rescuing him, and asks if you are willing to lend him a helping hand once more.

::::'''''Tell Highbrow you are willing to help?'' [[#page 8|page 8]]'''

::::'''''Ask Highbrow how he came to be stuck in the quicksand first?'' [[#page 16|page 16]]'''

::::'''''Ask Highbrow why he’s here first?'' [[#page 22|page 22]]'''

{{anchor|page 8}}
:::::;Page 8
:::::''(From [[#page 16|page 16]] or [[#page 22|page 22]] or [[#page 64|page 64]] or [[#page 67|page 67]])''

:::::'''''You tell Highbrow you are ready to help him.'''''
:::::You ask the Autobot to fill you in on what is going on, and how you can help. In response, Highbrow opens a storage compartment built into his leg. He tells you that any one of these items can help you function as a very effective assistant. But he warns you that the items are bulky, and you shouldn’t attempt to carry more than one. Additionally, if you do choose to carry one of these items, they risk impeding your ability to quickly progress through the swamp. Which (if any) of the items will you take?

:::::'''''A radio transmitter?'' [[#page 50|page 50]]'''

:::::'''''A Transformer detector?'' [[#page 43|page 43]]'''

:::::'''''An electronic circuit-jammer?'' [[#page 57|page 57]]'''

:::::'''''A [[laser cannon]]?'' [[#page 65|page 65]]'''

:::::'''''None of the items?'' [[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 50}}
::::::;Page 50
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]])''

::::::'''''You take the radio transmitter.'''''
::::::The device is nearly as big as you are. Highbrow explains that it is atomically powered in order for it to penetrate the foil leaves of the jungle. The radio needs to be so large in order to safely shield its user from its power source. You strap the radio onto your back, and Highbrow tells you that you may use it to signal him at any time. '''[[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 70}}
[[File:Swamp of the Scorpion Highbrow.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1]]
::::::;Page 70
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]] or [[#page 43|page 43]] or [[#page 50|page 50]] or [[#page 57|page 57]] or [[#page 65|page 65]])''

::::::Highbrow explains that he has been sent to investigate and halt nearby Decepticon activity before any innocent civilians are put in harm’s way. His fellow Autobot [[Brainstorm (G1)|Brainstorm]] was to accompany him, but Brainstorm overheated his power-lines and had to stop at a nearby city for repairs. [[Gort|Grot]]{{sic}}, Highbrow’s Nebulan companion, stayed behind to help Brainstorm. [[Arcana]], the Autobot-Nebulan alliance’s biomechanics engineer, was able to build Highbrow a spare head for him to use while his [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] partner is away. Although you are a little confused by the enormous influx of new information that Highbrow is delivering, you understand the general idea of the situation at hand. You are to be Higbrow’s temporary Nebulan partner; you won’t transform to become his head, but can help Highbrow on other important tasks he wouldn’t be able to accomplish on his own.

::::::'''''Suggest that Highbrow take to the air while you reconnoitre on foot?'' [[#page 2|page 2]]'''

::::::'''''Suggest that you both get airborne?'' [[#page 9|page 9]]'''

::::::'''''Suggest you both explore the swamp on foot?'' [[#page 17|page 17]]'''

{{anchor|page 2}}
:::::::;Page 2
:::::::''(From [[#page 70|page 70]])''

:::::::'''''Highbrow takes to the air while you explore the swamp on foot.'''''
:::::::Because, like most Nebulan life-forms, the jungle’s foliage has a silicate metabolism, Highbrow’s sensors cannot penetrate it. You will explore the swamp on foot, and call to Highbrow for help if ever you need it. As Highbrow soars higher in his helicopter mode, he warns you not to try and take on the Decepticons on your own. '''[[#page 24|page 24]]'''

{{anchor|page 24}}
:::::::;Page 24
:::::::''(From [[#page 2|page 2]] or [[#page 9|page 9]])''

:::::::You move quickly through the jungle while Highbrow tracks your movements as best he can from the air. About an hour into your search, you see a light approaching you, accompanied by the sound of a small motor. You deduce that there is a hovercraft coming towards you.

:::::::'''''Do you have the radio, and wish to use it to call Highbrow?'' [[#page 31|page 31]]'''

:::::::'''''Do you have the laser cannon, and want to get ready to fire it at whoever is approaching?'' [[#page 44|page 44]]'''

:::::::'''''Do you not have, or don’t want to use, either of these items?'' [[#page 38|page 38]]'''

{{anchor|page 31}}
::::::::;Page 31
::::::::''(From [[#page 24|page 24]])''

::::::::'''''You use the radio to call Highbrow.'''''
::::::::You tell your Autobot companion about the hovercraft as quietly as possible, and he soon answers that he can see the incoming vehicle from his viewpoint. Highbrow tells you he has cut his rotors, and is now gliding down in order to take the hovercraft’s driver by surprise. Two Nebulans then enter the clearing before you; a tall lordly figure and his thuggish henchman. The lord draws a [[Plasma blaster|plasma gun]] and points it towards you. You realize that you do not have the time to turn and run before he pulls the trigger. '''[[#page 54|page 54]]'''

{{anchor|page 54}}
::::::::;Page 54
::::::::''(From [[#page 31|page 31]])''

::::::::Suddenly, the two Nebulans are knocked unconscious after being hit by a painful shower of luminous raindrops. Highbrow, having changed to robot mode in mid-air, lands next to you, and tells you that the projectiles that hit your aggressors were courtesy of his [[Acid rainmaker rifle|corrosive rainmaker rifles]]. '''[[#page 47|page 47]]'''

{{anchor|page 47}}
::::::::;Page 47
::::::::''(From [[#page 32|page 32]] or [[#page 54|page 54]])''

::::::::Looking over the unconscious Nebulans, Highbrow identifies them as the evil [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] and [[Krunk]]. He notes that Krunk is especially nasty, having been [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] to the Decepticon [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]]. And Zarak’s presence indicates that whatever the Decepticons are up to, it must be something important. You ask Highbrow what you should do with your prisonners? '''[[#page 62|page 62]]'''

{{anchor|page 62}}
::::::::;Page 62
::::::::''(From [[#page 47|page 47]])''

::::::::Highbrow tells you his plan while he repairs the evil Nebulan’s hovercraft. While up in the air, he spotted a city. He has concluded that it is a Decepticon base, and where Zarak and Krunk were headed towards it. Highbrow ties and gags Zarak and Krunk, props them up on the once-more functional hovercraft, and guides it forwards towards the city as a makeshift decoy. Zarak wakes up on route, but can only grunt indignantly. Less than a quarter of an hour later, you have reached the city. '''[[#page 68|page 68]]'''

{{anchor|page 68}}
::::::::;Page 68
::::::::''(From [[#page 62|page 62]])''

::::::::The city is a sprawling complex of purple and green metal. The Nebulan [[Grax]] waits at the base of a ramp leading into the city. Highbrow tells you that he is a unscrupulous industrialist who sees the Autobots as a threat to free enterprise. Seeing the incoming hovercraft’s light piercing the night, Grax greets his master, Lord Zarak. Two Decepticons emerge from the city; [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]] and Snapdragon. Highbrow tells you that though the two robots will be more difficult to deal with, taking care of Grax will be an easy job. He uses a nearby log to jam the hovercraft’s accelerator full on. Not expecting this turn of events, Grax is knocked into the city’s metal wall by the hovercraft. '''[[#page 5|page 5]]'''

{{anchor|page 5}}
::::::::;Page 5
::::::::''(From [[#page 48|page 48]] or [[#page 68|page 68]])''

::::::::Recognizing the incoming Highbrow, Skullcruncher and Snapdragon spring into action. Snapdragon unleashes a blast of his [[Gyro gun|gyro-gun]] onto Highbrow before the Autobot can use his own weapons, causing Highbrow to collapse dizzily to the ground. Meanwhile, the Nebulans have recovered. Krunk and Grax join their respective Decepticon companions, and Zarak rushes into the city, calling for [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] to awaken and destroy his enemies. The entire city then rises up and transforms into a gigantic robot scorpion. With Highbrow not yet recovered from the Decepticon’s attack, it’s up to you to make the next move.

::::::::'''''Do you have a laser cannon?'' [[#page 12|page 12]]'''

::::::::'''''Have you found a magnetic pistol in an underground ruin?'' [[#page 58|page 58]]'''

::::::::'''''Do you have neither the cannon nor the pistol?'' [[#page 20|page 20]]'''

{{anchor|page 12}}
:::::::::;Page 12
:::::::::''(From [[#page 5|page 5]])''

:::::::::'''''You ready your laser cannon.'''''
:::::::::Scorponok and Snapdragon are your nearest targets. Which one will you fire towards?

:::::::::'''''Scorponok?'' [[#page 27|page 27]]'''

:::::::::'''''Snapdragon?'' [[#page 33|page 33]]'''

{{anchor|page 27}}
::::::::::;Page 27
::::::::::''(From [[#page 12|page 12]])''

::::::::::'''''You fire on Scorponok...'''''
::::::::::Only for the blast to ineffectually glance off his metal armour. You do not get the chance for a second shot as Scorponok’s pincer closes in around you...

::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 33}}
::::::::::;Page 33
::::::::::''(From [[#page 12|page 12]])''

::::::::::'''''You fire on Snapdragon...'''''
::::::::::Just as he is readying another blast from his gyro-gun. In a stroke of luck, Snapdragon is thrown off-balance by the shot and blasts Scorponok with his gyro-gun’s disorienting ray. Scorponok loses his balance and topples onto Skullcruncher, pinning him to the ground. Highbrow recovers, and while Snapdragon is still struggling from being hit, lays a mighty punch onto the Decepticon. You cheer as Snapdragon collapses into the mud. '''[[#page 72|page 72]]'''

{{anchor|page 72}}
::::::::::;Page 72
::::::::::''(From [[#page 14|page 14]] or [[#page 33|page 33]] or [[#page 58|page 58]])''

::::::::::Once his fellow Autobots arrive to help him with the battle’s aftermath, Highbrow returns you to the oil rig. You ask Highbrow what will happen to the Decepticon captive, only to be informed that they will be exchanged for Autobot prisoners of war. Highbrow tells you that today’s victory was quite minor, but you tell him that it counted for a lot more than Highbrow gives it credit. The Decepticons have been stopped from gaining access to the local oil wells, and possibly killing all those who work at the rig. This cheers Highbrow up, who in turn tells you that victory wouldn’t have been possible without your help.

::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 58}}
[[File:Swamp of the Scorpion Skullcruncher attacks.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb]]
:::::::::;Page 58
:::::::::''(From [[#page 5|page 5]] or [[#page 37|page 37]])''

:::::::::'''''You ready your magnetic pistol.'''''
:::::::::Aiming at Snapdragon, you pull the weapon’s trigger. Snapdragon is flung against Scorponok with tremendous force. While you hold your magnetic ray in Scorponok and Snapdragon’s direction, Highbrow rushes forwards to deal with Skullcruncher. Highbrow jams one of his rainmaker rifles into Skullcruncher’s alligator maw, causing its ammo pod to burst. A torrent of corrosive acid streams down Skullcruncher’s throat, prompting him to revert to robot mode. Highbrow then holds Skullcruncher at gunpoint with his second rifle, and forces the Decepticon to surrender. '''[[#page 72|page 72]]'''

{{anchor|page 20}}
:::::::::;Page 20
:::::::::''(From [[#page 5|page 5]])''

:::::::::'''''You find yourself without a weapon with which you can help Highbrow.'''''
:::::::::The ground quakes as Scorponok edges closer. You run to Highbrow’s side, but are too small and weak to help him get up. You look up to see Lord Zarak at Scorponok’s controls. He makes one of Scorponok’s pinchers reach towards you. You cannot get out of the way without leaving Highbrow behind. The pincher begins to close around you. This is...

:::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 44}}
::::::::;Page 44
::::::::''(From [[#page 24|page 24]])''

::::::::'''''You get ready to fire the laser cannon towards whoever is approaching.'''''
::::::::When the hovercraft comes into view, you see that a tall Nebulan nobleman and his guard are sitting within. They address one another as "Lord Zarak" and "Krunk," respectively. When he sees you, armed with the laser cannon, Zarak orders Krunk to accelerate forwards. He means to run you down before you can use the laser! '''[[#page 32|page 32]]'''

{{anchor|page 32}}
::::::::;Page 32
::::::::''(From [[#page 10|page 10]] or [[#page 44|page 44]])''

::::::::You have difficulty pointing the heavy laser cannon towards the incoming hovercraft as it speeds towards you. Then, a flash of sapphire-blue laser light shoots out of your weapon, melting the front portion of the hovercraft. The hovercraft’s motor cuts, the vehicle spins out of control, and hits a tree-trunk, sending its occupants flying out. '''[[#page 47|page 47]]'''

{{anchor|page 38}}
::::::::;Page 38
::::::::''(From [[#page 24|page 24]])''

::::::::'''''Since you do not know who is in the incoming vehicle, you decide to stay out of sight.'''''
::::::::Running on, you find a crumbling stone doorway half-sunk in the swamp. It is one of Nebulos’s ancient ruins. You look over your shoulder and see that the hovercraft is still headed in your direction. You could hide in the ruins, but the darkness beyond the doorway has an ominous feel to it…

::::::::'''''Hide in the ruins?'' [[#page 52|page 52]]'''

::::::::'''''Decide against entering the ancient stone structure?'' [[#page 60|page 60]]'''

{{anchor|page 52}}
:::::::::;Page 52
:::::::::''(From [[#page 38|page 38]])''

:::::::::'''''You step into the ruins to hide.'''''
:::::::::The inside of the ancient structure has a gloomy ambience to it, which sets your nerves on edge. The hovercraft speeds past the ruins’ entrance. You catch a brief glimpse of its occupants; a nobleman and his bodyguard. Once the noise of the hovercraft’s engine fades away, you notice another sound; a ghostly wailing echoing out from somewhere within the ruins.

:::::::::'''''Investigate the noise?'' [[#page 66|page 66]]'''

:::::::::'''''Exit the ruins immediately?'' [[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 66}}
::::::::::;Page 66
::::::::::''(From [[#page 52|page 52]])''

::::::::::'''''You investigate the ghostly wailing.'''''
::::::::::Driven on by curiosity, you step deeper into the ancient tunnel before you. After what seems like an eternity, you emerge from the tunnel into a large underground chamber. A grey-blue light shines through cracks in the walls before you, and the moaning sound has become louder.

::::::::::'''''Return to the entrance and continue exploring the swamp?'' [[#page 3|page 3]]'''

::::::::::'''''If you have the radio, do you call Highbrow?'' [[#page 11|page 11]]'''

::::::::::'''''Press forwards into the ruins?'' [[#page 19|page 19]]'''

{{anchor|page 3}}
:::::::::::;Page 3
:::::::::::''(From [[#page 11|page 11]] or [[#page 26|page 26]] or [[#page 34|page 34]] or [[#page 51|page 51]] or [[#page 52|page 52]] or [[#page 66|page 66]])''

:::::::::::'''''You head out of the ruins and continue to explore the swamp.'''''
:::::::::::Trudging through the marshy terrain, you eventually begin to see lights shining through the trees. You signal up to Highbrow and move to investigate. In a clearing before you is a city of purple and green metal. No-one seems to be around.

:::::::::::'''''Enter the city?'' [[#page 41|page 41]]'''

:::::::::::'''''Ask Highbrow to join you?'' [[#page 48|page 48]]'''

{{anchor|page 41}}
::::::::::::;Page 41
::::::::::::''(From [[#page 3|page 3]])''

::::::::::::'''''You enter the city.'''''
::::::::::::Did Highbrow give you the Transformer detector?

::::::::::::'''''Yes.'' [[#page 55|page 55]]'''

::::::::::::'''''No.'' [[#page 63|page 63]]'''

{{anchor|page 55}}
:::::::::::::;Page 55
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 41|page 41]])''

:::::::::::::'''''The Transformer detector alerts you of a nearby Decepticon.'''''
:::::::::::::It’s the city itself! You decide against continuing inside of the city, and signal to Highbrow. He comes down to join you. '''[[#page 48|page 48]]'''

{{anchor|page 48}}
:::::::::::::;Page 48
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 3|page 3]] or [[#page 6|page 6]] or [[#page 40|page 40]] or [[#page 55|page 55]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You watch the city from the cover of a fern thicket.'''''
:::::::::::::Minutes later, you see two robots lumber into the clearing. Each of the robots is accompanied by a Nebulan, with a third Nebulan leading the group. Highbrow informs you of their identity; the leader is Lord Zarak, the robots are Decepticons called Snapdragon and Skullcruncher. Snapdragon is accompanied by Krunk, and Skullcruncher is accompanied by the industrialist, Grax. If Grax is involved, Hightower continues, it must signify that they are after the nearby [[oil]]. Highbrow then comes to a snap decision, and rushes out into the clearing. '''[[#page 5|page 5]]'''

{{anchor|page 63}}
:::::::::::::;Page 63
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 41|page 41]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You rush into the city.'''''
:::::::::::::You step into a control room, and begin to look for clues to the Decepticons’ plan. When you accidentally brush against a bank of switches, an overhead screen lights up. On it are the words "Transform Sequence - Manual Override." Under the screen, you notice a red button with a safety over-lock.

:::::::::::::'''''Press the button?'' [[#page 13|page 13]]'''

:::::::::::::'''''If you have the radio transmitter, do you decide to contact Highbrow first?'' [[#page 69|page 69]]'''

:::::::::::::'''''If you have the circuit jammer, do you wish to use it now?'' [[#page 37|page 37]]'''

:::::::::::::'''''Leave the city immediately instead?'' [[#page 6|page 6]]'''

{{anchor|page 13}}
::::::::::::::;Page 13
::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 63|page 63]])''

::::::::::::::'''''You press the red button.'''''
::::::::::::::The onscreen message begins to flash as a siren begins to wail. You decide to run towards the exit as the city begins to quake, only for a steel door to close before you. It turns out that the city itself is the giant Decepticon Scorponok, and the button you just pressed has initiated his transformation to robot mode. You are now trapped, and about to be crushed between shifting joints and gears as Scorponok assumes his robot form.

::::::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 69}}
::::::::::::::;Page 69
::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 63|page 63]])''

::::::::::::::'''''You use the radio transmitter to contact Highbrow.'''''
::::::::::::::You ask your Autobot friend whether or not you should initiate the transformation sequence. Highbrow warns you against doing so, explaining you are within the giant Decepticon Scorponok. He tells you to get out before his voice trails off to static. Having heard enough to know it is unwise to stay put, you head back for the city’s main ramp. '''[[#page 6|page 6]]'''

{{anchor|page 6}}
::::::::::::::;Page 6
::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 63|page 63]] or [[#page 69|page 69]])''

::::::::::::::You find Highbrow waiting for you outside the city. He tells you that you need not search for the Decepticons any further, as they will soon come to this location. The both of you hide in nearby bushes. '''[[#page 48|page 48]]'''

{{anchor|page 37}}
::::::::::::::;Page 37
::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 63|page 63]])''

::::::::::::::'''''You place the circuit jammer under a control panel.'''''
::::::::::::::You suspect that this "city" is in fact the giant Decepticon Scorponok. If that is the case, the jammer will prevent him from taking part in any battle you and Highbrow might have to fight. You head out of the city to meet up with Highbrow, only to find him surrounded by Snapdragon, Skullcruncher, and their Nebulan companions. Do you have the magnetic pistol from the ancient ruins?

::::::::::::::'''''Yes.'' [[#page 58|page 58]]'''

::::::::::::::'''''No.'' [[#page 21|page 21]]'''

{{anchor|page 21}}
:::::::::::::::;Page 21
:::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 37|page 37]])''

:::::::::::::::Snapdragon takes to the air, and Skullcruncher begins to taunt Highbrow. He notes that if Highbrow takes flight, Snapdragon’s gyro-guns will send him tumbling down, and if he stays ground-bound, he will fall victim to Skullcruncher’s own metal-softening rays.

:::::::::::::::'''''Shout at Highbrow to shoot at Snapdragon?'' [[#page 28|page 28]]'''

:::::::::::::::'''''Tell him to shoot Skullcruncher instead?'' [[#page 14|page 14]]'''

{{anchor|page 28}}
[[File:Swamp of the Scorpion Snapdragon.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb]]
::::::::::::::::;Page 28
::::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 21|page 21]])''

::::::::::::::::'''''You tell Highbrow to shoot at Snapdragon.'''''
::::::::::::::::He complies, and sprays Snapdragon with acid. The Decepticon screeches down and crashes into the undergrowth. Highbrow then turns to strike Skullcruncher next, but the crocodilian Decepticon bathes the Autobot in his metal-softening rays. Skullcruncher then begins to encroach towards Highbrow, telling him he will make a nice chewy meal. You don’t get a chance to help Highbrow, as Snapdragon is behind you, having returned to his robot form after crash-landing. He is scarred by his acid bath, and covered in mud, but still plenty capable of destroying you. As he stoops down to seize you, you realize this is…

::::::::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 14}}
::::::::::::::::;Page 14
::::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 21|page 21]])''

::::::::::::::::'''''You tell Highbrow to shoot at Skullcruncher.'''''
::::::::::::::::Highbrow aims his rifle slightly wide, and waits until Skullcruncher deploys his metal-softening rays to fire. Skullcruncher easily dodges Highbrow’s shot, but in the process his beam lands upon Snapdragon instead of its intended target. His wings and fuselage weakened by Skullcruncher’s beam, Snapdragon plummets down and crashes. Highbrow then sends twin jets of scorching acid into Skullcruncher’s face, causing the Decepticon to buckle and curl up in pain. The battle is won. '''[[#page 72|page 72]]'''

{{anchor|page 11}}
:::::::::::;Page 11
:::::::::::''(From [[#page 66|page 66]])''

:::::::::::'''''You call Highbrow on the radio.'''''
:::::::::::But the radio gives out nothing but a hum and a crackle of static. You are too far below ground, and will have to explore the ruins on your own.

:::::::::::'''''Press on further into the ruins?'' [[#page 19|page 19]]'''

:::::::::::'''''Return outside?'' [[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 19}}
::::::::::::;Page 19
::::::::::::''(From [[#page 11|page 11]] or [[#page 66|page 66]])''

::::::::::::'''''You continue exploring the ruins.'''''
::::::::::::You walk towards a heavy stone door, which slides open as you approach. You are unsure if it is magic, or ancient machinery that made the door move by itself. The moaning rises in pitch, and suddenly a giant spider scuttles forwards through the doorway. The only way to get through the doorway is to get past the giant spider.

::::::::::::'''''If you have the laser cannon, do you wish to use it now?'' [[#page 26|page 26]]'''

::::::::::::'''''Do you try to dodge past the spider into the next room?'' [[#page 51|page 51]]'''

::::::::::::'''''Do you return to the exit?'' [[#page 34|page 34]]'''

{{anchor|page 26}}
:::::::::::::;Page 26
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 19|page 19]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You use the laser cannon against the giant spider.'''''
:::::::::::::Oddly, the laser passes straight through the spider, as though it wasn’t there. A muffled explosion resounds from the room beyond, and the spider disappears. Looking into the next room, you find the burnt-out projector that was projecting the hologram of the spider. The wailing you heard earlier has also stopped, as it was the high-pitched whine of the projector’s power supply. Searching the room, you find a strange pistol that emits a beam of soft white light. Testing it out on scraps of rusted machinery laying about, you discover that this is a magnetic pistol, with the power to magnetize any piece of metal touched by its beam. The magnetic charge it creates is so strong that not even the mighty Autobot [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] could hope to part metal magnetized by this weapon. You pocket the pistol and rush back outside to continue your exploration of the swamp. '''[[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 51}}
:::::::::::::;Page 51
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 19|page 19]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You try to dodge past the spider into the next room.'''''
:::::::::::::To your horror, you slip and tumble directly towards the spider’s glistening mandibles! But when you find yourself on the floor, the spider is nowhere to be seen. You look up and see an image projector set into the far wall. You can clearly see its beam shoot out through the air, and project the holographic image of the spider in the doorway. You further discover that the wailing sound you heard earlier is the high-pitched whine of the projector’s power supply. You search the room and eventually come across an odd pistol. Instead of firing projectiles, it produces a beam of soft white light. Sweeping the beam across the room, you discover its unique property. Whenever the beam touches a piece of metal, it magnetizes it. The charge of the pieces of metal magnetized this way is so great that even the renowned strength of the [[Horrorcon (G1)|Horrorcon]] [[Apeface]] would not be enough to pry them apart. You pocket the pistol and return outside to continue searching the swamp. '''[[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 34}}
:::::::::::::;Page 34
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 19|page 19]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You decide to avoid the spider altogether and return to the exit.'''''
:::::::::::::Racing back through the tunnel, you soon emerge into the cool night air. '''[[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 60}}
:::::::::;Page 60
:::::::::''(From [[#page 38|page 38]])''

:::::::::'''''You remain outside the ruins.'''''
:::::::::You hide nearby in the swamp instead. The hovercraft soon glides into view. Within it are two Nebulans; a tall imperious-looking figure, and his burly, battle-scarred henchman. The grander one orders his subordinate to pause, while they let Highbrow pass overhead. Highbrow is searching the swamp with his searchlight, but fails to spot the hover-car. The grander figure, "Lord Zarak," then orders his henchman to drive towards the "Scorpion Base." When the henchman turns on the vehicle’s, he inadvertently illuminates your hiding spot, bringing you into clear view! '''[[#page 10|page 10]]'''

{{anchor|page 10}}
:::::::::;Page 10
:::::::::''(From [[#page 60|page 60]])''

:::::::::Immediately assuming you are a spy for the Autobots, Zarak orders "Krunk" to deal with you. Krunk throws the hover-car’s joystick forward, veering in your direction. He is going to run you down!

:::::::::'''''Try to dodge aside?'' [[#page 18|page 18]]'''

:::::::::'''''Try throwing yourself flat just before the collision?'' [[#page 25|page 25]]'''

:::::::::'''''If you have the laser cannon, do you wish to use it now?'' [[#page 32|page 32]]'''

{{anchor|page 18}}
::::::::::;Page 18
::::::::::''(From [[#page 10|page 10]] or [[#page 46|page 46]])''

::::::::::'''''You try to dodge the incoming hover-car'''''
::::::::::But you do not move quickly enough! Krunk only needs to nudge the hover-car’s joystick to have you in his sights once more. And you do not have the time to dodge aside on his second pass. As the hover-car’s headlights blind you, your adventure has come to...

::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 25}}
::::::::::;Page 25
::::::::::''(From [[#page 10|page 10]] or [[#page 46|page 46]])''

::::::::::'''''You throw yourself flat just before the hovercraft collides with you.'''''
::::::::::You feel the hovercraft passing over you with a painful jolt. Thankfully, you will have no more than a few bruises for the incident. Krunk and Zarak stop and glance back in your direction. You remain still in the swamp’s muddy water. Zarak congratulates Krunk on killing you, but threatens his goon that any damage done to the vehicle’s paintwork will come out of his pay. They hear Highbrow returning, and quickly depart. Once Zarak and Krunk have fled the scene, you get back up and wave down Highbrow. Seeing what condition you are in, Highbrow transforms and lands next to you. You tell Highbrow what happened. Highbrow tells you that the two criminals you encountered are Lord Zarak, leader of the evil Nebulans, and his bodyguard Krunk. He then decides that the two of you would be better off if you stuck together. '''[[#page 17|page 17]]'''

{{anchor|page 17}}
::::::::::;Page 17
::::::::::''(From [[#page 9|page 9]] or [[#page 25|page 25]] or [[#page 70|page 70]])''

::::::::::'''''The two of you agree to proceed together on foot.'''''
::::::::::Highbrow doesn’t think the two of you will make much headway, as he has to walk slowly in order to avoid pockets of quicksand. Nonetheless, the two of you prefer to play it safe in case you are attacked by Decepticons. '''[[#page 40|page 40]]'''

{{anchor|page 40}}
::::::::::;Page 40
::::::::::''(From [[#page 17|page 17]])''

::::::::::You soon come to a futuristic city made out of purple and green metal inside of a clearing. Pipes are running out of the city and into the ground, as though someone is planning on drilling for oil. Though the city appears as though it is a veritable fortress, no one is manning it currently. Highbrow suggest the two of you wait in hiding until the Decepticons turn up. '''[[#page 48|page 48]]'''

{{anchor|page 9}}
:::::::;Page 9
:::::::''(From [[#page 70|page 70]])''

:::::::'''''You climb into Highbrow’s helicopter cockpit, and take to the air.'''''
:::::::Highbrow turns on a spotlight on his undercarriage so that you can both see better into the swamp as the sun’s light begins to fade. But because of the "organ-metallic" nature of Nebulos’s bioforms, Highbrow’s scanning systems won’t be able to penetrate the canopy bellow. You have difficulty spotting anything from this height yourself. You conclude that one or both of you will have to continue on foot to explore the area properly.

:::::::'''''Should Highbrow set you down and proceed in the air by himself?'' [[#page 24|page 24]]'''

:::::::'''''Should the both of you land and continue your search together?'' [[#page 17|page 17]]'''

{{anchor|page 43}}
::::::;Page 43
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]])''

::::::'''''You take the Transformer detector.'''''
::::::The device consists of several gold hoops. You take it and coil it over your shoulder. Highbrow points out a panel attached to the junction between two hoops. At the moment, the panel reads: "Autobot: HIGHBROW." Highbrow the panel will change accordingly if any other Transformer come into range. '''[[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 57}}
::::::;Page 57
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]])''

::::::'''''You take the electronic circuit jammer.'''''
::::::The device consists of three large steel globes joined by crystalline rods. Highbrow tells you the jammer contains a magnetic limpet that will adhere to the armour of a Transformer. Once in place, the jammer will prevent a Transformer from assuming another mode. He tells you that he once used it against the Decepticon [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] to prevent him from taking flight and battling both himself and Brainstorm. '''[[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 65}}
::::::;Page 65
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]])''

::::::'''''You take the laser cannon.'''''
::::::It is about the size of a bazooka. Highbrow explains that Transformers usually power their weapons off of atomic batteries built into their bodies. This laser cannon has an internal power supply, which is what makes it so heavy. Although the cannon might not be powerful enough to take out any Decepticon, it should buy you some time if you encounter one. '''[[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 16}}
:::::;Page 16
:::::''(From [[#page 64|page 64]])''

:::::'''''You ask Highbrow how he came to be stuck in the quicksand.'''''
:::::Highbrow is embarrassed to admit that he simply lost his balance while he was flying and hit the mud. He admits he was lucky that you came along, and asks once more for your help.

:::::'''''Agree to help Highbrow in any way you can?'' [[#page 8|page 8]]'''

:::::'''''Refuse to help Highbrow any more?'' [[#page 30|page 30]]'''

{{anchor|page 30}}
::::::;Page 30
::::::''(From [[#page 16|page 16]] or [[#page 22|page 22]])''

::::::'''''You refuse to help Highbrow.'''''
::::::You apologize to him, but admit that you don’t think you’d be much help in any case. Highbrow says that you might have been more help than you’d imagine as he begins to lift off. He claims that it is not only strength that wins a battle, and that very few people are without fear. But if one has courage, they can overcome fear, and everything else. You wave goodbye as Highbrow flies away, still convinced that you would not have been much help on his mission. '''[[#page 46|page 46]]'''

{{anchor|page 46}}
::::::;Page 46
::::::''(From [[#page 30|page 30]])''

::::::As you try to make your way back towards the oil rig, you find yourself lost in the swamp. You hear Highbrow flying overhead, continuing his search for the Decepticons. Then, you spot two figures in a hover-car, hiding from Highbrow as he passes overhead. The two Nebulans, calling each other "Krunk" and "Lord Zarak" decide that you are an Autobot spot, and steer their vehicle in your direction. They mean to run you down!

::::::'''''Try to dodge aside?'' [[#page 18|page 18]]'''

::::::'''''Throw yourself flat?'' [[#page 25|page 25]]'''

{{anchor|page 22}}
:::::;Page 22
:::::''(From [[#page 64|page 64]])''

:::::'''''You ask Highbrow what he is doing here.'''''
:::::Highbrow tells you that the Decepticons are after the oil that lies beneath the surrounding jungle. Lord Zarak, leader of the Nebulan collaborators, has ordered them to obtain it. Unlike the Nebulan’s drilling rigs, Decepticon technology has no regard for nature, and will destroy the entire jungle if need be. They are also likely to destroy oil rigs like the one at which you work to prevent the Autobots from obtaining any oil themselves. The situation certainly sounds dire, and you realize that many of your friends that work at the oil rig could be killed if Zarak’s plan is carried out.

:::::'''''Agree to help Highbrow?'' [[#page 8|page 8]]'''

:::::'''''Refuse to help Highbrow?'' [[#page 30|page 30]]'''

{{anchor|page 56}}
::::;Page 56
::::''(From [[#page 36|page 36]])''

::::'''''You push a log towards Highbrow so he can haul himself free.'''''
::::You steer your hover-cull around the edge of the clearing to find a suitable log. You settle on one that is both sturdy and light enough for you to shift. But when you return to Highbrow, you find that he has already sunk beneath the quicksand. Maybe other Autobots will come to rescue him, but your part in this adventure is over.

::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 49}}
:::;Page 49
:::''(From [[#page 15|page 15]])''

:::'''''You try pushing a log to Highbrow so he can haul himself free.'''''
:::You find one that is both sturdy enough for Highbrow to haul himself out, and light enough for you to bring it over to him. You haul one end to him, then anchor the other end by landing the hover-scull onto it. Highbrow begins to free himself from the mire, but the log then slips from under the scull. You are alarmed by this development, but now that Highbrow has his arms free, he is able to deploy his rotor blades, and lift himself out of the mud. '''[[#page 64|page 64]]'''

{{anchor|page 23}}
[[File:Swamp of the Scorpion Nebulans.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1]]
::;Page 23
::''(From [[#page 7|page 7]])''

::'''''You attempt to find others who will help you rescue Highbrow.'''''
::You find a few senior technicians and oilmen playing cards in the rig’s lounge area. But they are so enraptured in their game that they pay you no heed.

::'''''Go rescue Highbrow on your own?'' [[#page 15|page 15]]'''

::'''''Keep badgering your coworkers until they come?'' [[#page 29|page 29]]'''

{{anchor|page 29}}
:::;Page 29
:::''(From [[#page 23|page 23]])''

:::'''''You keep badgering your coworkers.'''''
:::They finally give in, and agree to come along with you to rescue the Autobot in distress. But by the time you arrive at Highbrow’s last coordinates, there is no sign of him. You do not know whether Highbrow sank to the bottom of the quicksand pit, or if he managed to escape on his own. In either case, this is the end of your adventure.

:::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 35}}
:;Page 35
:''(From [[#page 1|page 1]])''

:'''''You ignore the incoming message.'''''
:As you head towards the recreation lounge, a supervisor stops you. He tells you that your coworker, [[Klab]] had to go home sick. He then assigns you to take over his post in the monitoring room. You begrudgingly return to the monitoring room and sit down with a book. Yawning, you wonder what’s the point of security on an oil rig. '''[[#page 39|page 39]]'''

{{anchor|page 39}}
:;Page 39
:''(From [[#page 35|page 35]])''

:You suddenly bolt upright, having fallen asleep while on monitor duty. Looking over the screen before you, you notice that in the supply room are two figures rifling through the stores.

:'''''Alert your coworkers?'' [[#page 53|page 53]]'''

:'''''Go down to the supply room yourself?'' [[#page 61|page 61]]'''

{{anchor|page 53}}
:;Page 53
::''(From [[#page 39|page 39]])''

::'''''You alert the rest of the oil rig.'''''
::But by the time anyone can scramble to stop them, the intruders have left the premises. The Chief Engineer inspects supply room, and finds that all of the [[trilithium power crystal]]s have been stolen. This will hold up drilling by a month. Although the Chief Engineer considers reprimanding you for falling asleep on the job, he admits that at least you did well to raise the alarm as quickly as you did. Although you are spared disciplinary actions, you have also missed out on a great adventure.

::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 61}}
::;Page 61
::''(From [[#page 39|page 39]])''

::'''''You go down to the supply room yourself, pausing only to grab a flashlight.'''''
::Looking through the store room, you find that several crates have gone missing. You sweep your flashlight about the marshlands outside, only for its light to be blotted out by the thick mist that has settled. Then you hear nearing throb of helicopter rotors. You watch as the vehicle drops to hover beside the rig, scanning the marsh with its searchlight. Guessing the helicopter is also looking for the figures who broke into the supply room, you attract its attention by waving your arms. As the helicopter looms nearer, you notice that there is no pilot in the cockpit. '''[[#page 67|page 67]]'''

{{anchor|page 67}}
::;Page 67
::''(From [[#page 61|page 61]])''

::The helicopter lands and transforms into a robot. The robot introduces himself as Highbrow, the electronics and surveillance expert among the Headmaster Autobots. He tells you he knows that a theft has taken place at your oil rig. He had sent out a message earlier, warning that such a thing might happen, but it was not answered. He then arrived on scene too late to apprehend the thieves. Checking the stores, you take note that three crates of expensive trilithium crystals are missing. You realize that you will be in a lot of trouble when your superiors find out you were sleeping while on monitor duty. Highbrow suggests that you should come along with him, and help him recover the stolen crystals, before anyone notices they have gone missing.

::'''''Agree to go along with Highbrow?'' [[#page 8|page 8]]'''

::'''''Tell Highbrow that you should stay behind?'' [[#page 4|page 4]]'''

{{anchor|page 4}}
:::;Page 4
:::''(From [[#page 67|page 67]])''

:::'''''You tell Highbrow that you should stay behind.'''''
:::You explain that although you will be disciplined for allowing the crystals to be stolen, the consequences might be worse if you also abandon your post. You watch Highbrow lumber off into the marsh. You can only wish him luck, as you are sure he must be outnumbered by the evil Decepticons waiting for him in the night.

:::'''THE END'''

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]]

|c2=
*[[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]]
*[[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]]
*[[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]

|h4=[[Nebulan]]s|c4=
*[[You]]
*[[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]]
*[[Krunk]]
*[[Grax]]

|nonumbering=true
}}

==Notes==
*All Transformers' names are printed in [[To sell toys|CAPITAL LETTERS]].
*On [[#page 48|page 48]], you make a reference to the story of Jonah and the whale. Who knew Nebulans were versed in biblical literature?
*Whatever path you choose, you never recover the stolen crystals (if any crystals are stolen at all).
*In all depictions of Highbrow, the highly toy-accurate illustration always show him with flip-down panel of his chest opened, showing off his Tech Spec readouts.
*All Nebulans are depicted as being robotic, or as Highbrow describes Nebulon's organisms, "organ-metallic".
*The words "jungle" and "swamp" are used interchangeably throughout the whole book. Maybe on Nebulon they're the same thing?
*The one time Gort's name is mentioned in the book, it is spelt "Grot". Curiously, the same error appears in the [[Transformers Annual 1987#Errors|Transformers Annual 1987]], which was also produced in the UK the same year – implying one could have potentially influenced the other.
*The Autobots [[Brainstorm (G1)|Brainstorm]] and [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], the Decepticons [[Apeface]] and [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]], and the Nebulans [[Gort|Grot]], [[Arcana]], and [[Klab]] are all mentioned, but do not make an appearance.
*One volume in the wildly popular ''[https://fightingfantasy.fandom.com/wiki/Fighting_Fantasy Fighting Fantasy]'' series of multipath adventure books, published three years before ''Swamp of the Scorpion'', is called, um... ''[https://fightingfantasy.fandom.com/wiki/Scorpion_Swamp_(book) Scorpion Swamp]''. Perhaps the latter was unknown to the producers of the Transformers gamebook, and the alliteration of the same two words in both titles was simply too irresistible to each author, independently – but by golly it's a coincidence if so.

===Advertisements===
* At the end of the story are adverts for other Young Corgi book "[[Desert of Danger]]".

[[Category:Generation 1 multipath adventures]]

Transformers Annual 1987

2026-05-09T19:35:56Z

Velvet Android: /* Errors */ Noting duplication of "Grot" error elsewhere

{{Comicstory|
|seriesissue=[[Transformers Annual]]
|prev=Transformers Annual 1986
|next=Transformers Annual 1989
|prev2=The Mission
|next2=What's in a Name?
|title=Transformers Annual 1987
|image=Transformers annual 1988.jpg
|caption="You're a bad off-model likeness!" "No, YOU'RE a bad off-model likeness!"
|publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]
|date=[[August 1|1st August]] [[1987]]
|coverdate=[[1987]]
|cover=[[Robin Smith]]
|price=£3.75
|ISBN=0-948936-09-6
|pagecount=64
|continuity=[[Marvel Comics continuity]]
}}
The '''Transformers Annual 1987''' was published by Marvel Comics Ltd on 1 August 1987.

==Contents==
*Front Papers: [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Ultra Magnus]] and [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]]
*"This book belongs to"
*"[[What's in a Name?]]"
*"[[Doomsday for Nebulos]]" - [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] Saga (chapter 1)
*[[Transformer]]s Trivia Quiz
*"[[Vicious Circle!]]"
*"[[Stylor's Story]]" - Headmasters Saga (chapter 2)
*[[Transformers AtoZ|AtoZ]]: [[Brainstorm (G1)|Brainstorm]], [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]], [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] and [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]]
*"[[Ark Duty]]"
*"[[The Final Conflict]]" - Headmasters Saga (chapter 3)
*AtoZ: [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]], [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]] and [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]]

==Synopsis==

===Front Papers===
[[File:Transformers annual 1988 Poster.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4|The Transformers remake of ''{{w|Alas Smith and Jones}}'' never took off]]
Two page inside cover poster of the heads Ultra Magnus and Galvatron gurning at each other. By [[Jeff Anderson]].

===This book belongs to===
A page for the lucky owner of the annual to fill out a mini tech spec entry for themselves. The fields given are ''Owner'', ''Allegiance'', ''SPD'', ''STR'' and ''INT''.
The page is filled out with a character model picture of [[Hun-Gurrr (G1)|Hun-Gurrr]].

===What's in a Name?===
Having learned of the arrival of the [[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]] on Earth, [[Swoop (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Swoop]] reflects on how he encountered one of their number, [[Divebomb (G1)|Divebomb]], on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]].

===Doomsday for Nebulos===
Lord [[Zarak (G1)|Zarak]] meets with a group of [[Decepticon]]s led by [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]], who he has summoned to [[Nebulos]], and soon begins to wonder if this was a mistake...

===Transformers Trivia Quiz===
Split into two sections, one about Autobots and one about Decepticons, with a slight numerical imbalance of 21 Autobot questions and 22 Decepticon. Most are general franchise questions (e.g. "[[Scattershot (G1)|Scattershot]] is the team leader of which Autobot group?", "The Decepticon [[Triple Changer]] [[Octane]] can become which two vehicles?") but a few relate specifically to the comic (e.g.. "Which Autobot hosted the [[Letters page (Marvel UK)|Transformers comic letters page]] for just one issue?", "Three Decepticons appeared on the cover of last year's Transformers Annual. Who were they?").
The answers are on the following page.

===Vicious Circle!===
[[Ultra Magnus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Ultra Magnus]], having survived falling into a volcano, must face [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] once again.

===Stylor's Story===
As the Decepticons attack the Nebulan city, [[Stylor]] decides to join the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]].

===Character bios===
Bios of [[Brainstorm (G1)|Brainstorm]], [[Chromedome (G1)|Chromedome]], [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] and [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]], similar in style to the ''[[Transformers AtoZ|AtoZ]]'' features in the regular UK title (which are themselves cribbed from the US ''Transformers Universe''). The only difference is the addition of a "Chest Readout" category (although similar stats are available for all Transformers, they're just more visible with the Headmasters).

===Ark Duty===
A vital information tape is stolen from [[Kup (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Kup]]; [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] disobeys orders to retrieve it.

===The Final Conflict===
Scorponok and [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] face off in a duel to the death!

===Character bios===
Profiles of [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]], [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]] and [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]], identical in style to the Autobot ones.

==Errors==
*Throughout the annual (in the latter two text stories and the profile on Highbrow), [[Gort]] is referred to as "Grot". It's too consistent to be a typo and suggests that [[Ian Rimmer]], whoever wrote the Headmasters story, or [[Simon Furman]], who edited the annual, either weren't familiar with the character or were working from an early outline. (The annual features no credits except on the first two comic strips.) Curiously, the same error appears in a volume in the [[The Transformers Adventure Game Books|Transformers Adventure Game Books]] line, ''[[Swamp of the Scorpion#Notes|Swamp of the Scorpion]]'', which was also produced in the UK in 1987 – implying one could have potentially influenced the other.

==Items of note==
*The three comic strips tie in well with the Marvel UK stories: "What's In a Name?" is set during the events of "[[Grudge Match!]]" (just after the scene of Swoop and [[Sludge (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Sludge]] watching the television report), "Vicious Circle" carries on the story from "[[Fire on High!|Fire on High]]" (in what was either an attempt to make people buy the annual or a way of ensuring there was something in there worth reading, depending who you listen to) and "Ark Duty" ties in with the future timeline.
*The Headmaster Saga seems to be set during the events of the ''[[The Transformers: Headmasters|Headmasters]]'' mini-series. The first two stories are a faithful adaptation of "[[Broken Glass!]]" (with a recap of "[[Ring of Hate!]]"), but the third is new and must be set during "[[Brothers in Armor!!]]" (in the same gap as "[[Worlds Apart!]]", after the creation of the Targetmasters and before the Transformers left Nebulos).
*For no readily apparent reason, Fortress Maximus' Nebulan partner is called Kord rather than [[Galen]]. Years later, the foreword to [[The Transformers Classics, Vol. 4|''The Transformers Classics,'' Vol. 4]] would retroactively declare his full name to be "Galen Kord", but the [[letters page (Marvel UK)|letters page]] for [[The Desert Island of Space!|Issue #158]] already stated that the name "Kord" was simply incorrect.
*Fortress Maximus apparently keeps his old head "inside a chamber in his massive robot structure".
*Bonded Headmasters are referred to on occasion by both Transformer and Nebulan names - e.g., Duros/Hardhead, even in dialogue, although this is less than consistent.
*The origin of the Targetmasters recounted in "The Final Conflict" states their partners are Nebulan weapons who have been engineered to transform into robots and then given minds duplicated from other Nebulans (implying the originals are still walking around).
*In "Doomsday for Nebulos", all dialogue for Scorponok (the only Transformer to speak) is written in '''CAPITALS AND BOLD'''. This practice is discontinued in the other stories.
*A pictorial question in the quiz asks readers to identify a character by their Cybertronian alternate mode, reusing art of Jazz from ''[[The Transformers Universe (Marvel)|The Transformers Universe]]'' issue 2. This quiz was actually the first time this art was published in the UK, meaning the only way to know the answer (without peeking) would be to watch the cartoon episode "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]" — easier said than done in the UK at time of publication. This was certainly an unusual question from a publication that [[Letters page (Marvel UK)|regularly insisted]] the legitimacy of the comics continuity over the cartoon.

[[Category:Annuals|1988]]
[[Category:Marvel UK issues]]

Swamp of the Scorpion

2026-05-06T23:57:23Z

Velvet Android: /* Notes */

{{comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[The Transformers Adventure Game Books]]''
|next=Desert of Danger
|prev=Highway Clash
|image=Corgi-5-Swamp of the Scorpion.jpg
|caption=
|title="Swamp of the Scorpion"
|publisher=[[Corgi Books]]
|published=Great Britain
|imprint=Young Corgi Adventure/Adventure Game Books
|date=1987
|writers=[[Dave Morris]]
|illustrator=[[Bob Harvey]] (interior pencils and cover painting)
|pagecount=72pp
|ISBN=ISBN 0 552 525014
}}

'''[[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] plans to steal from a [[oil|oil rig]] to fuel the Decepticons' plans of conquest. You must team up with the Autobot [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] to save your home planet of [[Nebulos]]!'''
==Synopsis==
{{anchor|page 1}}
;'''Page 1'''

[[You]] are a young [[Nebulan]]. You work as a technician on an oil rig which is built on the edge of the great swamp that covers much of the southern continent of [[Nebulos]]. An important job, as this rig taps into the [[oil]] deposits that supply most of the planet’s fuel needs. One evening, at the end of the week, when the rest of your coworkers have already left for the Nebulan "weekend," you notice a flashing light in the radio room. Someone is attempting to initiate contact with the oil rig.

'''''Answer the radio?'' [[#page 7|page 7]]'''

'''''Ignore the incoming message?'' [[#page 35|page 35]]'''

{{anchor|page 7}}
:;Page 7
:''(From [[#page 1|page 1]])''

:'''''You answer the radio.'''''
:Once you answer the call, the symbol of the heroic Autobots appears on the viewscreen. You hear a voice that identifies itself as [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]], and requests immediate assistance. The Autobot has crash-landed in the swamp, and is rapidly sinking in quicksand. You jot down Highbrow’s coordinates. Though he is only a few kilometres away, the situation seems very urgent.

:'''''Head out right away to come to Highbrow’s aid?'' [[#page 15|page 15]]'''

:'''''Attempt to find other people to go with you first?'' [[#page 23|page 23]]'''

{{anchor|page 15}}
::;Page 15
::''(From [[#page 7|page 7]] or [[#page 23|page 23]])''

::'''''You head out to rescue Highbrow immediately.'''''
::You grab a [[hover-scull]] from storage, to easily skim over the swamp’s rough terrain. It is nearly sunset when you locate the sinking Autobot, and you find him submerged almost all the way to his head in the quicksand. If you do not act quickly, he will sink forever.

::'''''Hover over Highbrow and try to pull him out of the quicksand?'' [[#page 36|page 36]]'''

::'''''Fetch the end of some creepers for him to grab onto?'' [[#page 42|page 42]]'''

::'''''Try pushing a log out to him so he can haul himself free?'' [[#page 49|page 49]]'''

{{anchor|page 36}}
:::;Page 36
:::''(From [[#page 15|page 15]])''

:::'''''You hover over Highbrow and attempt to pull him out of the quicksand.'''''
:::Using a rope to secure Highbrow’s head to the scull, and set your vehicle’s jets to full throttle. But the scull’s jets are not powerful enough to haul Highbrow out of the quicksand, and he continues to sink. The mud is up to his mouth now.

:::'''''Fetch the end of some creepers for Highbrow to grab onto?'' [[#page 42|page 42]]'''

:::'''''Push a log out to Highbrow so he can haul himself free?'' [[#page 56|page 56]]'''

{{anchor|page 42}}
::::;Page 42
::::''(From [[#page 15|page 15]] or [[#page 36|page 36]])''

::::'''''You fetch some creepers for Highbrow to grab onto.'''''
::::These plants are nearly as strong as steel cables. You choose two of which look particularly thick, and pull them over towards the sinking Autobot. He struggles to grasp the creepers, but once he has them firmly in his hands, he is able to haul himself out of the mud pit, and assume his helicopter mode. '''[[#page 64|page 64]]'''

{{anchor|page 64}}
::::;Page 64
::::''(From [[#page 42|page 42]] or [[#page 49|page 49]])''

::::Highbrow notices that the wind generated by his twin rotors is too powerful for you to stand, and so finds a patch of firm ground to land onto and resume his robot mode. Highbrow apologizes, and notices that your hover-scull was damaged by his rotor-draft. You assure him that you can fix the device later, and that you are simply glad that he is no longer in danger. Highbrow sincerely thanks you for rescuing him, and asks if you are willing to lend him a helping hand once more.

::::'''''Tell Highbrow you are willing to help?'' [[#page 8|page 8]]'''

::::'''''Ask Highbrow how he came to be stuck in the quicksand first?'' [[#page 16|page 16]]'''

::::'''''Ask Highbrow why he’s here first?'' [[#page 22|page 22]]'''

{{anchor|page 8}}
:::::;Page 8
:::::''(From [[#page 16|page 16]] or [[#page 22|page 22]] or [[#page 64|page 64]] or [[#page 67|page 67]])''

:::::'''''You tell Highbrow you are ready to help him.'''''
:::::You ask the Autobot to fill you in on what is going on, and how you can help. In response, Highbrow opens a storage compartment built into his leg. He tells you that any one of these items can help you function as a very effective assistant. But he warns you that the items are bulky, and you shouldn’t attempt to carry more than one. Additionally, if you do choose to carry one of these items, they risk impeding your ability to quickly progress through the swamp. Which (if any) of the items will you take?

:::::'''''A radio transmitter?'' [[#page 50|page 50]]'''

:::::'''''A Transformer detector?'' [[#page 43|page 43]]'''

:::::'''''An electronic circuit-jammer?'' [[#page 57|page 57]]'''

:::::'''''A [[laser cannon]]?'' [[#page 65|page 65]]'''

:::::'''''None of the items?'' [[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 50}}
::::::;Page 50
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]])''

::::::'''''You take the radio transmitter.'''''
::::::The device is nearly as big as you are. Highbrow explains that it is atomically powered in order for it to penetrate the foil leaves of the jungle. The radio needs to be so large in order to safely shield its user from its power source. You strap the radio onto your back, and Highbrow tells you that you may use it to signal him at any time. '''[[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 70}}
[[File:Swamp of the Scorpion Highbrow.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1]]
::::::;Page 70
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]] or [[#page 43|page 43]] or [[#page 50|page 50]] or [[#page 57|page 57]] or [[#page 65|page 65]])''

::::::Highbrow explains that he has been sent to investigate and halt nearby Decepticon activity before any innocent civilians are put in harm’s way. His fellow Autobot [[Brainstorm (G1)|Brainstorm]] was to accompany him, but Brainstorm overheated his power-lines and had to stop at a nearby city for repairs. [[Gort|Grot]]{{sic}}, Highbrow’s Nebulan companion, stayed behind to help Brainstorm. [[Arcana]], the Autobot-Nebulan alliance’s biomechanics engineer, was able to build Highbrow a spare head for him to use while his [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] partner is away. Although you are a little confused by the enormous influx of new information that Highbrow is delivering, you understand the general idea of the situation at hand. You are to be Higbrow’s temporary Nebulan partner; you won’t transform to become his head, but can help Highbrow on other important tasks he wouldn’t be able to accomplish on his own.

::::::'''''Suggest that Highbrow take to the air while you reconnoitre on foot?'' [[#page 2|page 2]]'''

::::::'''''Suggest that you both get airborne?'' [[#page 9|page 9]]'''

::::::'''''Suggest you both explore the swamp on foot?'' [[#page 17|page 17]]'''

{{anchor|page 2}}
:::::::;Page 2
:::::::''(From [[#page 70|page 70]])''

:::::::'''''Highbrow takes to the air while you explore the swamp on foot.'''''
:::::::Because, like most Nebulan life-forms, the jungle’s foliage has a silicate metabolism, Highbrow’s sensors cannot penetrate it. You will explore the swamp on foot, and call to Highbrow for help if ever you need it. As Highbrow soars higher in his helicopter mode, he warns you not to try and take on the Decepticons on your own. '''[[#page 24|page 24]]'''

{{anchor|page 24}}
:::::::;Page 24
:::::::''(From [[#page 2|page 2]] or [[#page 9|page 9]])''

:::::::You move quickly through the jungle while Highbrow tracks your movements as best he can from the air. About an hour into your search, you see a light approaching you, accompanied by the sound of a small motor. You deduce that there is a hovercraft coming towards you.

:::::::'''''Do you have the radio, and wish to use it to call Highbrow?'' [[#page 31|page 31]]'''

:::::::'''''Do you have the laser cannon, and want to get ready to fire it at whoever is approaching?'' [[#page 44|page 44]]'''

:::::::'''''Do you not have, or don’t want to use, either of these items?'' [[#page 38|page 38]]'''

{{anchor|page 31}}
::::::::;Page 31
::::::::''(From [[#page 24|page 24]])''

::::::::'''''You use the radio to call Highbrow.'''''
::::::::You tell your Autobot companion about the hovercraft as quietly as possible, and he soon answers that he can see the incoming vehicle from his viewpoint. Highbrow tells you he has cut his rotors, and is now gliding down in order to take the hovercraft’s driver by surprise. Two Nebulans then enter the clearing before you; a tall lordly figure and his thuggish henchman. The lord draws a [[Plasma blaster|plasma gun]] and points it towards you. You realize that you do not have the time to turn and run before he pulls the trigger. '''[[#page 54|page 54]]'''

{{anchor|page 54}}
::::::::;Page 54
::::::::''(From [[#page 31|page 31]])''

::::::::Suddenly, the two Nebulans are knocked unconscious after being hit by a painful shower of luminous raindrops. Highbrow, having changed to robot mode in mid-air, lands next to you, and tells you that the projectiles that hit your aggressors were courtesy of his [[Acid rainmaker rifle|corrosive rainmaker rifles]]. '''[[#page 47|page 47]]'''

{{anchor|page 47}}
::::::::;Page 47
::::::::''(From [[#page 32|page 32]] or [[#page 54|page 54]])''

::::::::Looking over the unconscious Nebulans, Highbrow identifies them as the evil [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] and [[Krunk]]. He notes that Krunk is especially nasty, having been [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] to the Decepticon [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]]. And Zarak’s presence indicates that whatever the Decepticons are up to, it must be something important. You ask Highbrow what you should do with your prisonners? '''[[#page 62|page 62]]'''

{{anchor|page 62}}
::::::::;Page 62
::::::::''(From [[#page 47|page 47]])''

::::::::Highbrow tells you his plan while he repairs the evil Nebulan’s hovercraft. While up in the air, he spotted a city. He has concluded that it is a Decepticon base, and where Zarak and Krunk were headed towards it. Highbrow ties and gags Zarak and Krunk, props them up on the once-more functional hovercraft, and guides it forwards towards the city as a makeshift decoy. Zarak wakes up on route, but can only grunt indignantly. Less than a quarter of an hour later, you have reached the city. '''[[#page 68|page 68]]'''

{{anchor|page 68}}
::::::::;Page 68
::::::::''(From [[#page 62|page 62]])''

::::::::The city is a sprawling complex of purple and green metal. The Nebulan [[Grax]] waits at the base of a ramp leading into the city. Highbrow tells you that he is a unscrupulous industrialist who sees the Autobots as a threat to free enterprise. Seeing the incoming hovercraft’s light piercing the night, Grax greets his master, Lord Zarak. Two Decepticons emerge from the city; [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]] and Snapdragon. Highbrow tells you that though the two robots will be more difficult to deal with, taking care of Grax will be an easy job. He uses a nearby log to jam the hovercraft’s accelerator full on. Not expecting this turn of events, Grax is knocked into the city’s metal wall by the hovercraft. '''[[#page 5|page 5]]'''

{{anchor|page 5}}
::::::::;Page 5
::::::::''(From [[#page 48|page 48]] or [[#page 68|page 68]])''

::::::::Recognizing the incoming Highbrow, Skullcruncher and Snapdragon spring into action. Snapdragon unleashes a blast of his [[Gyro gun|gyro-gun]] onto Highbrow before the Autobot can use his own weapons, causing Highbrow to collapse dizzily to the ground. Meanwhile, the Nebulans have recovered. Krunk and Grax join their respective Decepticon companions, and Zarak rushes into the city, calling for [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] to awaken and destroy his enemies. The entire city then rises up and transforms into a gigantic robot scorpion. With Highbrow not yet recovered from the Decepticon’s attack, it’s up to you to make the next move.

::::::::'''''Do you have a laser cannon?'' [[#page 12|page 12]]'''

::::::::'''''Have you found a magnetic pistol in an underground ruin?'' [[#page 58|page 58]]'''

::::::::'''''Do you have neither the cannon nor the pistol?'' [[#page 20|page 20]]'''

{{anchor|page 12}}
:::::::::;Page 12
:::::::::''(From [[#page 5|page 5]])''

:::::::::'''''You ready your laser cannon.'''''
:::::::::Scorponok and Snapdragon are your nearest targets. Which one will you fire towards?

:::::::::'''''Scorponok?'' [[#page 27|page 27]]'''

:::::::::'''''Snapdragon?'' [[#page 33|page 33]]'''

{{anchor|page 27}}
::::::::::;Page 27
::::::::::''(From [[#page 12|page 12]])''

::::::::::'''''You fire on Scorponok...'''''
::::::::::Only for the blast to ineffectually glance off his metal armour. You do not get the chance for a second shot as Scorponok’s pincer closes in around you...

::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 33}}
::::::::::;Page 33
::::::::::''(From [[#page 12|page 12]])''

::::::::::'''''You fire on Snapdragon...'''''
::::::::::Just as he is readying another blast from his gyro-gun. In a stroke of luck, Snapdragon is thrown off-balance by the shot and blasts Scorponok with his gyro-gun’s disorienting ray. Scorponok loses his balance and topples onto Skullcruncher, pinning him to the ground. Highbrow recovers, and while Snapdragon is still struggling from being hit, lays a mighty punch onto the Decepticon. You cheer as Snapdragon collapses into the mud. '''[[#page 72|page 72]]'''

{{anchor|page 72}}
::::::::::;Page 72
::::::::::''(From [[#page 14|page 14]] or [[#page 33|page 33]] or [[#page 58|page 58]])''

::::::::::Once his fellow Autobots arrive to help him with the battle’s aftermath, Highbrow returns you to the oil rig. You ask Highbrow what will happen to the Decepticon captive, only to be informed that they will be exchanged for Autobot prisoners of war. Highbrow tells you that today’s victory was quite minor, but you tell him that it counted for a lot more than Highbrow gives it credit. The Decepticons have been stopped from gaining access to the local oil wells, and possibly killing all those who work at the rig. This cheers Highbrow up, who in turn tells you that victory wouldn’t have been possible without your help.

::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 58}}
[[File:Swamp of the Scorpion Skullcruncher attacks.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb]]
:::::::::;Page 58
:::::::::''(From [[#page 5|page 5]] or [[#page 37|page 37]])''

:::::::::'''''You ready your magnetic pistol.'''''
:::::::::Aiming at Snapdragon, you pull the weapon’s trigger. Snapdragon is flung against Scorponok with tremendous force. While you hold your magnetic ray in Scorponok and Snapdragon’s direction, Highbrow rushes forwards to deal with Skullcruncher. Highbrow jams one of his rainmaker rifles into Skullcruncher’s alligator maw, causing its ammo pod to burst. A torrent of corrosive acid streams down Skullcruncher’s throat, prompting him to revert to robot mode. Highbrow then holds Skullcruncher at gunpoint with his second rifle, and forces the Decepticon to surrender. '''[[#page 72|page 72]]'''

{{anchor|page 20}}
:::::::::;Page 20
:::::::::''(From [[#page 5|page 5]])''

:::::::::'''''You find yourself without a weapon with which you can help Highbrow.'''''
:::::::::The ground quakes as Scorponok edges closer. You run to Highbrow’s side, but are too small and weak to help him get up. You look up to see Lord Zarak at Scorponok’s controls. He makes one of Scorponok’s pinchers reach towards you. You cannot get out of the way without leaving Highbrow behind. The pincher begins to close around you. This is...

:::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 44}}
::::::::;Page 44
::::::::''(From [[#page 24|page 24]])''

::::::::'''''You get ready to fire the laser cannon towards whoever is approaching.'''''
::::::::When the hovercraft comes into view, you see that a tall Nebulan nobleman and his guard are sitting within. They address one another as "Lord Zarak" and "Krunk," respectively. When he sees you, armed with the laser cannon, Zarak orders Krunk to accelerate forwards. He means to run you down before you can use the laser! '''[[#page 32|page 32]]'''

{{anchor|page 32}}
::::::::;Page 32
::::::::''(From [[#page 10|page 10]] or [[#page 44|page 44]])''

::::::::You have difficulty pointing the heavy laser cannon towards the incoming hovercraft as it speeds towards you. Then, a flash of sapphire-blue laser light shoots out of your weapon, melting the front portion of the hovercraft. The hovercraft’s motor cuts, the vehicle spins out of control, and hits a tree-trunk, sending its occupants flying out. '''[[#page 47|page 47]]'''

{{anchor|page 38}}
::::::::;Page 38
::::::::''(From [[#page 24|page 24]])''

::::::::'''''Since you do not know who is in the incoming vehicle, you decide to stay out of sight.'''''
::::::::Running on, you find a crumbling stone doorway half-sunk in the swamp. It is one of Nebulos’s ancient ruins. You look over your shoulder and see that the hovercraft is still headed in your direction. You could hide in the ruins, but the darkness beyond the doorway has an ominous feel to it…

::::::::'''''Hide in the ruins?'' [[#page 52|page 52]]'''

::::::::'''''Decide against entering the ancient stone structure?'' [[#page 60|page 60]]'''

{{anchor|page 52}}
:::::::::;Page 52
:::::::::''(From [[#page 38|page 38]])''

:::::::::'''''You step into the ruins to hide.'''''
:::::::::The inside of the ancient structure has a gloomy ambience to it, which sets your nerves on edge. The hovercraft speeds past the ruins’ entrance. You catch a brief glimpse of its occupants; a nobleman and his bodyguard. Once the noise of the hovercraft’s engine fades away, you notice another sound; a ghostly wailing echoing out from somewhere within the ruins.

:::::::::'''''Investigate the noise?'' [[#page 66|page 66]]'''

:::::::::'''''Exit the ruins immediately?'' [[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 66}}
::::::::::;Page 66
::::::::::''(From [[#page 52|page 52]])''

::::::::::'''''You investigate the ghostly wailing.'''''
::::::::::Driven on by curiosity, you step deeper into the ancient tunnel before you. After what seems like an eternity, you emerge from the tunnel into a large underground chamber. A grey-blue light shines through cracks in the walls before you, and the moaning sound has become louder.

::::::::::'''''Return to the entrance and continue exploring the swamp?'' [[#page 3|page 3]]'''

::::::::::'''''If you have the radio, do you call Highbrow?'' [[#page 11|page 11]]'''

::::::::::'''''Press forwards into the ruins?'' [[#page 19|page 19]]'''

{{anchor|page 3}}
:::::::::::;Page 3
:::::::::::''(From [[#page 11|page 11]] or [[#page 26|page 26]] or [[#page 34|page 34]] or [[#page 51|page 51]] or [[#page 52|page 52]] or [[#page 66|page 66]])''

:::::::::::'''''You head out of the ruins and continue to explore the swamp.'''''
:::::::::::Trudging through the marshy terrain, you eventually begin to see lights shining through the trees. You signal up to Highbrow and move to investigate. In a clearing before you is a city of purple and green metal. No-one seems to be around.

:::::::::::'''''Enter the city?'' [[#page 41|page 41]]'''

:::::::::::'''''Ask Highbrow to join you?'' [[#page 48|page 48]]'''

{{anchor|page 41}}
::::::::::::;Page 41
::::::::::::''(From [[#page 3|page 3]])''

::::::::::::'''''You enter the city.'''''
::::::::::::Did Highbrow give you the Transformer detector?

::::::::::::'''''Yes.'' [[#page 55|page 55]]'''

::::::::::::'''''No.'' [[#page 63|page 63]]'''

{{anchor|page 55}}
:::::::::::::;Page 55
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 41|page 41]])''

:::::::::::::'''''The Transformer detector alerts you of a nearby Decepticon.'''''
:::::::::::::It’s the city itself! You decide against continuing inside of the city, and signal to Highbrow. He comes down to join you. '''[[#page 48|page 48]]'''

{{anchor|page 48}}
:::::::::::::;Page 48
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 3|page 3]] or [[#page 6|page 6]] or [[#page 40|page 40]] or [[#page 55|page 55]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You watch the city from the cover of a fern thicket.'''''
:::::::::::::Minutes later, you see two robots lumber into the clearing. Each of the robots is accompanied by a Nebulan, with a third Nebulan leading the group. Highbrow informs you of their identity; the leader is Lord Zarak, the robots are Decepticons called Snapdragon and Skullcruncher. Snapdragon is accompanied by Krunk, and Skullcruncher is accompanied by the industrialist, Grax. If Grax is involved, Hightower continues, it must signify that they are after the nearby [[oil]]. Highbrow then comes to a snap decision, and rushes out into the clearing. '''[[#page 5|page 5]]'''

{{anchor|page 63}}
:::::::::::::;Page 63
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 41|page 41]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You rush into the city.'''''
:::::::::::::You step into a control room, and begin to look for clues to the Decepticons’ plan. When you accidentally brush against a bank of switches, an overhead screen lights up. On it are the words "Transform Sequence - Manual Override." Under the screen, you notice a red button with a safety over-lock.

:::::::::::::'''''Press the button?'' [[#page 13|page 13]]'''

:::::::::::::'''''If you have the radio transmitter, do you decide to contact Highbrow first?'' [[#page 69|page 69]]'''

:::::::::::::'''''If you have the circuit jammer, do you wish to use it now?'' [[#page 37|page 37]]'''

:::::::::::::'''''Leave the city immediately instead?'' [[#page 6|page 6]]'''

{{anchor|page 13}}
::::::::::::::;Page 13
::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 63|page 63]])''

::::::::::::::'''''You press the red button.'''''
::::::::::::::The onscreen message begins to flash as a siren begins to wail. You decide to run towards the exit as the city begins to quake, only for a steel door to close before you. It turns out that the city itself is the giant Decepticon Scorponok, and the button you just pressed has initiated his transformation to robot mode. You are now trapped, and about to be crushed between shifting joints and gears as Scorponok assumes his robot form.

::::::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 69}}
::::::::::::::;Page 69
::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 63|page 63]])''

::::::::::::::'''''You use the radio transmitter to contact Highbrow.'''''
::::::::::::::You ask your Autobot friend whether or not you should initiate the transformation sequence. Highbrow warns you against doing so, explaining you are within the giant Decepticon Scorponok. He tells you to get out before his voice trails off to static. Having heard enough to know it is unwise to stay put, you head back for the city’s main ramp. '''[[#page 6|page 6]]'''

{{anchor|page 6}}
::::::::::::::;Page 6
::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 63|page 63]] or [[#page 69|page 69]])''

::::::::::::::You find Highbrow waiting for you outside the city. He tells you that you need not search for the Decepticons any further, as they will soon come to this location. The both of you hide in nearby bushes. '''[[#page 48|page 48]]'''

{{anchor|page 37}}
::::::::::::::;Page 37
::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 63|page 63]])''

::::::::::::::'''''You place the circuit jammer under a control panel.'''''
::::::::::::::You suspect that this "city" is in fact the giant Decepticon Scorponok. If that is the case, the jammer will prevent him from taking part in any battle you and Highbrow might have to fight. You head out of the city to meet up with Highbrow, only to find him surrounded by Snapdragon, Skullcruncher, and their Nebulan companions. Do you have the magnetic pistol from the ancient ruins?

::::::::::::::'''''Yes.'' [[#page 58|page 58]]'''

::::::::::::::'''''No.'' [[#page 21|page 21]]'''

{{anchor|page 21}}
:::::::::::::::;Page 21
:::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 37|page 37]])''

:::::::::::::::Snapdragon takes to the air, and Skullcruncher begins to taunt Highbrow. He notes that if Highbrow takes flight, Snapdragon’s gyro-guns will send him tumbling down, and if he stays ground-bound, he will fall victim to Skullcruncher’s own metal-softening rays.

:::::::::::::::'''''Shout at Highbrow to shoot at Snapdragon?'' [[#page 28|page 28]]'''

:::::::::::::::'''''Tell him to shoot Skullcruncher instead?'' [[#page 14|page 14]]'''

{{anchor|page 28}}
[[File:Swamp of the Scorpion Snapdragon.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb]]
::::::::::::::::;Page 28
::::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 21|page 21]])''

::::::::::::::::'''''You tell Highbrow to shoot at Snapdragon.'''''
::::::::::::::::He complies, and sprays Snapdragon with acid. The Decepticon screeches down and crashes into the undergrowth. Highbrow then turns to strike Skullcruncher next, but the crocodilian Decepticon bathes the Autobot in his metal-softening rays. Skullcruncher then begins to encroach towards Highbrow, telling him he will make a nice chewy meal. You don’t get a chance to help Highbrow, as Snapdragon is behind you, having returned to his robot form after crash-landing. He is scarred by his acid bath, and covered in mud, but still plenty capable of destroying you. As he stoops down to seize you, you realize this is…

::::::::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 14}}
::::::::::::::::;Page 14
::::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 21|page 21]])''

::::::::::::::::'''''You tell Highbrow to shoot at Skullcruncher.'''''
::::::::::::::::Highbrow aims his rifle slightly wide, and waits until Skullcruncher deploys his metal-softening rays to fire. Skullcruncher easily dodges Highbrow’s shot, but in the process his beam lands upon Snapdragon instead of its intended target. His wings and fuselage weakened by Skullcruncher’s beam, Snapdragon plummets down and crashes. Highbrow then sends twin jets of scorching acid into Skullcruncher’s face, causing the Decepticon to buckle and curl up in pain. The battle is won. '''[[#page 72|page 72]]'''

{{anchor|page 11}}
:::::::::::;Page 11
:::::::::::''(From [[#page 66|page 66]])''

:::::::::::'''''You call Highbrow on the radio.'''''
:::::::::::But the radio gives out nothing but a hum and a crackle of static. You are too far below ground, and will have to explore the ruins on your own.

:::::::::::'''''Press on further into the ruins?'' [[#page 19|page 19]]'''

:::::::::::'''''Return outside?'' [[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 19}}
::::::::::::;Page 19
::::::::::::''(From [[#page 11|page 11]] or [[#page 66|page 66]])''

::::::::::::'''''You continue exploring the ruins.'''''
::::::::::::You walk towards a heavy stone door, which slides open as you approach. You are unsure if it is magic, or ancient machinery that made the door move by itself. The moaning rises in pitch, and suddenly a giant spider scuttles forwards through the doorway. The only way to get through the doorway is to get past the giant spider.

::::::::::::'''''If you have the laser cannon, do you wish to use it now?'' [[#page 26|page 26]]'''

::::::::::::'''''Do you try to dodge past the spider into the next room?'' [[#page 51|page 51]]'''

::::::::::::'''''Do you return to the exit?'' [[#page 34|page 34]]'''

{{anchor|page 26}}
:::::::::::::;Page 26
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 19|page 19]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You use the laser cannon against the giant spider.'''''
:::::::::::::Oddly, the laser passes straight through the spider, as though it wasn’t there. A muffled explosion resounds from the room beyond, and the spider disappears. Looking into the next room, you find the burnt-out projector that was projecting the hologram of the spider. The wailing you heard earlier has also stopped, as it was the high-pitched whine of the projector’s power supply. Searching the room, you find a strange pistol that emits a beam of soft white light. Testing it out on scraps of rusted machinery laying about, you discover that this is a magnetic pistol, with the power to magnetize any piece of metal touched by its beam. The magnetic charge it creates is so strong that not even the mighty Autobot [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] could hope to part metal magnetized by this weapon. You pocket the pistol and rush back outside to continue your exploration of the swamp. '''[[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 51}}
:::::::::::::;Page 51
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 19|page 19]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You try to dodge past the spider into the next room.'''''
:::::::::::::To your horror, you slip and tumble directly towards the spider’s glistening mandibles! But when you find yourself on the floor, the spider is nowhere to be seen. You look up and see an image projector set into the far wall. You can clearly see its beam shoot out through the air, and project the holographic image of the spider in the doorway. You further discover that the wailing sound you heard earlier is the high-pitched whine of the projector’s power supply. You search the room and eventually come across an odd pistol. Instead of firing projectiles, it produces a beam of soft white light. Sweeping the beam across the room, you discover its unique property. Whenever the beam touches a piece of metal, it magnetizes it. The charge of the pieces of metal magnetized this way is so great that even the renowned strength of the [[Horrorcon (G1)|Horrorcon]] [[Apeface]] would not be enough to pry them apart. You pocket the pistol and return outside to continue searching the swamp. '''[[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 34}}
:::::::::::::;Page 34
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 19|page 19]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You decide to avoid the spider altogether and return to the exit.'''''
:::::::::::::Racing back through the tunnel, you soon emerge into the cool night air. '''[[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 60}}
:::::::::;Page 60
:::::::::''(From [[#page 38|page 38]])''

:::::::::'''''You remain outside the ruins.'''''
:::::::::You hide nearby in the swamp instead. The hovercraft soon glides into view. Within it are two Nebulans; a tall imperious-looking figure, and his burly, battle-scarred henchman. The grander one orders his subordinate to pause, while they let Highbrow pass overhead. Highbrow is searching the swamp with his searchlight, but fails to spot the hover-car. The grander figure, "Lord Zarak," then orders his henchman to drive towards the "Scorpion Base." When the henchman turns on the vehicle’s, he inadvertently illuminates your hiding spot, bringing you into clear view! '''[[#page 10|page 10]]'''

{{anchor|page 10}}
:::::::::;Page 10
:::::::::''(From [[#page 60|page 60]])''

:::::::::Immediately assuming you are a spy for the Autobots, Zarak orders "Krunk" to deal with you. Krunk throws the hover-car’s joystick forward, veering in your direction. He is going to run you down!

:::::::::'''''Try to dodge aside?'' [[#page 18|page 18]]'''

:::::::::'''''Try throwing yourself flat just before the collision?'' [[#page 25|page 25]]'''

:::::::::'''''If you have the laser cannon, do you wish to use it now?'' [[#page 32|page 32]]'''

{{anchor|page 18}}
::::::::::;Page 18
::::::::::''(From [[#page 10|page 10]] or [[#page 46|page 46]])''

::::::::::'''''You try to dodge the incoming hover-car'''''
::::::::::But you do not move quickly enough! Krunk only needs to nudge the hover-car’s joystick to have you in his sights once more. And you do not have the time to dodge aside on his second pass. As the hover-car’s headlights blind you, your adventure has come to...

::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 25}}
::::::::::;Page 25
::::::::::''(From [[#page 10|page 10]] or [[#page 46|page 46]])''

::::::::::'''''You throw yourself flat just before the hovercraft collides with you.'''''
::::::::::You feel the hovercraft passing over you with a painful jolt. Thankfully, you will have no more than a few bruises for the incident. Krunk and Zarak stop and glance back in your direction. You remain still in the swamp’s muddy water. Zarak congratulates Krunk on killing you, but threatens his goon that any damage done to the vehicle’s paintwork will come out of his pay. They hear Highbrow returning, and quickly depart. Once Zarak and Krunk have fled the scene, you get back up and wave down Highbrow. Seeing what condition you are in, Highbrow transforms and lands next to you. You tell Highbrow what happened. Highbrow tells you that the two criminals you encountered are Lord Zarak, leader of the evil Nebulans, and his bodyguard Krunk. He then decides that the two of you would be better off if you stuck together. '''[[#page 17|page 17]]'''

{{anchor|page 17}}
::::::::::;Page 17
::::::::::''(From [[#page 9|page 9]] or [[#page 25|page 25]] or [[#page 70|page 70]])''

::::::::::'''''The two of you agree to proceed together on foot.'''''
::::::::::Highbrow doesn’t think the two of you will make much headway, as he has to walk slowly in order to avoid pockets of quicksand. Nonetheless, the two of you prefer to play it safe in case you are attacked by Decepticons. '''[[#page 40|page 40]]'''

{{anchor|page 40}}
::::::::::;Page 40
::::::::::''(From [[#page 17|page 17]])''

::::::::::You soon come to a futuristic city made out of purple and green metal inside of a clearing. Pipes are running out of the city and into the ground, as though someone is planning on drilling for oil. Though the city appears as though it is a veritable fortress, no one is manning it currently. Highbrow suggest the two of you wait in hiding until the Decepticons turn up. '''[[#page 48|page 48]]'''

{{anchor|page 9}}
:::::::;Page 9
:::::::''(From [[#page 70|page 70]])''

:::::::'''''You climb into Highbrow’s helicopter cockpit, and take to the air.'''''
:::::::Highbrow turns on a spotlight on his undercarriage so that you can both see better into the swamp as the sun’s light begins to fade. But because of the "organ-metallic" nature of Nebulos’s bioforms, Highbrow’s scanning systems won’t be able to penetrate the canopy bellow. You have difficulty spotting anything from this height yourself. You conclude that one or both of you will have to continue on foot to explore the area properly.

:::::::'''''Should Highbrow set you down and proceed in the air by himself?'' [[#page 24|page 24]]'''

:::::::'''''Should the both of you land and continue your search together?'' [[#page 17|page 17]]'''

{{anchor|page 43}}
::::::;Page 43
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]])''

::::::'''''You take the Transformer detector.'''''
::::::The device consists of several gold hoops. You take it and coil it over your shoulder. Highbrow points out a panel attached to the junction between two hoops. At the moment, the panel reads: "Autobot: HIGHBROW." Highbrow the panel will change accordingly if any other Transformer come into range. '''[[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 57}}
::::::;Page 57
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]])''

::::::'''''You take the electronic circuit jammer.'''''
::::::The device consists of three large steel globes joined by crystalline rods. Highbrow tells you the jammer contains a magnetic limpet that will adhere to the armour of a Transformer. Once in place, the jammer will prevent a Transformer from assuming another mode. He tells you that he once used it against the Decepticon [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] to prevent him from taking flight and battling both himself and Brainstorm. '''[[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 65}}
::::::;Page 65
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]])''

::::::'''''You take the laser cannon.'''''
::::::It is about the size of a bazooka. Highbrow explains that Transformers usually power their weapons off of atomic batteries built into their bodies. This laser cannon has an internal power supply, which is what makes it so heavy. Although the cannon might not be powerful enough to take out any Decepticon, it should buy you some time if you encounter one. '''[[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 16}}
:::::;Page 16
:::::''(From [[#page 64|page 64]])''

:::::'''''You ask Highbrow how he came to be stuck in the quicksand.'''''
:::::Highbrow is embarrassed to admit that he simply lost his balance while he was flying and hit the mud. He admits he was lucky that you came along, and asks once more for your help.

:::::'''''Agree to help Highbrow in any way you can?'' [[#page 8|page 8]]'''

:::::'''''Refuse to help Highbrow any more?'' [[#page 30|page 30]]'''

{{anchor|page 30}}
::::::;Page 30
::::::''(From [[#page 16|page 16]] or [[#page 22|page 22]])''

::::::'''''You refuse to help Highbrow.'''''
::::::You apologize to him, but admit that you don’t think you’d be much help in any case. Highbrow says that you might have been more help than you’d imagine as he begins to lift off. He claims that it is not only strength that wins a battle, and that very few people are without fear. But if one has courage, they can overcome fear, and everything else. You wave goodbye as Highbrow flies away, still convinced that you would not have been much help on his mission. '''[[#page 46|page 46]]'''

{{anchor|page 46}}
::::::;Page 46
::::::''(From [[#page 30|page 30]])''

::::::As you try to make your way back towards the oil rig, you find yourself lost in the swamp. You hear Highbrow flying overhead, continuing his search for the Decepticons. Then, you spot two figures in a hover-car, hiding from Highbrow as he passes overhead. The two Nebulans, calling each other "Krunk" and "Lord Zarak" decide that you are an Autobot spot, and steer their vehicle in your direction. They mean to run you down!

::::::'''''Try to dodge aside?'' [[#page 18|page 18]]'''

::::::'''''Throw yourself flat?'' [[#page 25|page 25]]'''

{{anchor|page 22}}
:::::;Page 22
:::::''(From [[#page 64|page 64]])''

:::::'''''You ask Highbrow what he is doing here.'''''
:::::Highbrow tells you that the Decepticons are after the oil that lies beneath the surrounding jungle. Lord Zarak, leader of the Nebulan collaborators, has ordered them to obtain it. Unlike the Nebulan’s drilling rigs, Decepticon technology has no regard for nature, and will destroy the entire jungle if need be. They are also likely to destroy oil rigs like the one at which you work to prevent the Autobots from obtaining any oil themselves. The situation certainly sounds dire, and you realize that many of your friends that work at the oil rig could be killed if Zarak’s plan is carried out.

:::::'''''Agree to help Highbrow?'' [[#page 8|page 8]]'''

:::::'''''Refuse to help Highbrow?'' [[#page 30|page 30]]'''

{{anchor|page 56}}
::::;Page 56
::::''(From [[#page 36|page 36]])''

::::'''''You push a log towards Highbrow so he can haul himself free.'''''
::::You steer your hover-cull around the edge of the clearing to find a suitable log. You settle on one that is both sturdy and light enough for you to shift. But when you return to Highbrow, you find that he has already sunk beneath the quicksand. Maybe other Autobots will come to rescue him, but your part in this adventure is over.

::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 49}}
:::;Page 49
:::''(From [[#page 15|page 15]])''

:::'''''You try pushing a log to Highbrow so he can haul himself free.'''''
:::You find one that is both sturdy enough for Highbrow to haul himself out, and light enough for you to bring it over to him. You haul one end to him, then anchor the other end by landing the hover-scull onto it. Highbrow begins to free himself from the mire, but the log then slips from under the scull. You are alarmed by this development, but now that Highbrow has his arms free, he is able to deploy his rotor blades, and lift himself out of the mud. '''[[#page 64|page 64]]'''

{{anchor|page 23}}
[[File:Swamp of the Scorpion Nebulans.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1]]
::;Page 23
::''(From [[#page 7|page 7]])''

::'''''You attempt to find others who will help you rescue Highbrow.'''''
::You find a few senior technicians and oilmen playing cards in the rig’s lounge area. But they are so enraptured in their game that they pay you no heed.

::'''''Go rescue Highbrow on your own?'' [[#page 15|page 15]]'''

::'''''Keep badgering your coworkers until they come?'' [[#page 29|page 29]]'''

{{anchor|page 29}}
:::;Page 29
:::''(From [[#page 23|page 23]])''

:::'''''You keep badgering your coworkers.'''''
:::They finally give in, and agree to come along with you to rescue the Autobot in distress. But by the time you arrive at Highbrow’s last coordinates, there is no sign of him. You do not know whether Highbrow sank to the bottom of the quicksand pit, or if he managed to escape on his own. In either case, this is the end of your adventure.

:::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 35}}
:;Page 35
:''(From [[#page 1|page 1]])''

:'''''You ignore the incoming message.'''''
:As you head towards the recreation lounge, a supervisor stops you. He tells you that your coworker, [[Klab]] had to go home sick. He then assigns you to take over his post in the monitoring room. You begrudgingly return to the monitoring room and sit down with a book. Yawning, you wonder what’s the point of security on an oil rig. '''[[#page 39|page 39]]'''

{{anchor|page 39}}
:;Page 39
:''(From [[#page 35|page 35]])''

:You suddenly bolt upright, having fallen asleep while on monitor duty. Looking over the screen before you, you notice that in the supply room are two figures rifling through the stores.

:'''''Alert your coworkers?'' [[#page 53|page 53]]'''

:'''''Go down to the supply room yourself?'' [[#page 61|page 61]]'''

{{anchor|page 53}}
:;Page 53
::''(From [[#page 39|page 39]])''

::'''''You alert the rest of the oil rig.'''''
::But by the time anyone can scramble to stop them, the intruders have left the premises. The Chief Engineer inspects supply room, and finds that all of the [[trilithium power crystal]]s have been stolen. This will hold up drilling by a month. Although the Chief Engineer considers reprimanding you for falling asleep on the job, he admits that at least you did well to raise the alarm as quickly as you did. Although you are spared disciplinary actions, you have also missed out on a great adventure.

::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 61}}
::;Page 61
::''(From [[#page 39|page 39]])''

::'''''You go down to the supply room yourself, pausing only to grab a flashlight.'''''
::Looking through the store room, you find that several crates have gone missing. You sweep your flashlight about the marshlands outside, only for its light to be blotted out by the thick mist that has settled. Then you hear nearing throb of helicopter rotors. You watch as the vehicle drops to hover beside the rig, scanning the marsh with its searchlight. Guessing the helicopter is also looking for the figures who broke into the supply room, you attract its attention by waving your arms. As the helicopter looms nearer, you notice that there is no pilot in the cockpit. '''[[#page 67|page 67]]'''

{{anchor|page 67}}
::;Page 67
::''(From [[#page 61|page 61]])''

::The helicopter lands and transforms into a robot. The robot introduces himself as Highbrow, the electronics and surveillance expert among the Headmaster Autobots. He tells you he knows that a theft has taken place at your oil rig. He had sent out a message earlier, warning that such a thing might happen, but it was not answered. He then arrived on scene too late to apprehend the thieves. Checking the stores, you take note that three crates of expensive trilithium crystals are missing. You realize that you will be in a lot of trouble when your superiors find out you were sleeping while on monitor duty. Highbrow suggests that you should come along with him, and help him recover the stolen crystals, before anyone notices they have gone missing.

::'''''Agree to go along with Highbrow?'' [[#page 8|page 8]]'''

::'''''Tell Highbrow that you should stay behind?'' [[#page 4|page 4]]'''

{{anchor|page 4}}
:::;Page 4
:::''(From [[#page 67|page 67]])''

:::'''''You tell Highbrow that you should stay behind.'''''
:::You explain that although you will be disciplined for allowing the crystals to be stolen, the consequences might be worse if you also abandon your post. You watch Highbrow lumber off into the marsh. You can only wish him luck, as you are sure he must be outnumbered by the evil Decepticons waiting for him in the night.

:::'''THE END'''

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]]

|c2=
*[[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]]
*[[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]]
*[[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]

|h4=[[Nebulan]]s|c4=
*[[You]]
*[[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]]
*[[Krunk]]
*[[Grax]]

|nonumbering=true
}}

==Notes==
*All Transformers' names are printed in [[To sell toys|CAPITAL LETTERS]].
*On [[#page 48|page 48]], you make a reference to the story of Jonah and the whale. Who knew Nebulans were versed in biblical literature?
*Whatever path you choose, you never recover the stolen crystals (if any crystals are stolen at all).
*In all depictions of Highbrow, the highly toy-accurate illustration always show him with flip-down panel of his chest opened, showing off his Tech Spec readouts.
*All Nebulans are depicted as being robotic, or as Highbrow describes Nebulon's organisms, "organ-metallic".
*The words "jungle" and "swamp" are used interchangeably throughout the whole book. Maybe on Nebulon they're the same thing?
*The one time Gort's name is mentioned in the book, it is spelt "Grot".
*The Autobots [[Brainstorm (G1)|Brainstorm]] and [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], the Decepticons [[Apeface]] and [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]], and the Nebulans [[Gort|Grot]], [[Arcana]], and [[Klab]] are all mentioned, but do not make an appearance.

===Advertisements===
* At the end of the story are adverts for other Young Corgi book "[[Desert of Danger]]".

[[Category:Generation 1 multipath adventures]]

Transformers Annual

2026-05-05T14:36:29Z

Velvet Android:

[[File:Transformers annual 1987.jpg|thumb|upright=1.67]]
'''Transformers Annuals''' are hardback books released in the [[United Kingdom]], typically during the run-up to [[Christmas]] the year before the date given on the cover.

An "annual" in the UK is a slim, large-format volume, acting as a kind of yearbook based on a popular intellectual property – e.g. a children's comic strip, TV show or toyline – and intended primarily as a 'stocking-filler' gift. Traditionally, annuals contain a mixture of comics, text stories, profiles, puzzles and games, but the balance between these has varied strongly over the decades.

The [[Marvel Comics]] Transformers Annuals of the G1 era contained stories which are regarded as part of the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel UK|Marvel UK comic]] canon, as well as unique [[Transformers AtoZ|A-Z profiles]] of characters in the context of the UK continuity (such as [[Earthforce]]).

The two Annuals produced during the [[Unicron Trilogy]] period are almost entirely reprints of the contemporary [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] [[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|''Armada'']] and [[Transformers: Energon (comic)|''Energon'']] comics, with no introductory or background material. In the [[Live-action film series|live-action movie]] era, the balance has swung the other way, with the Annuals filled with games and puzzles, interspersed with a text story such as a movie adaptation.

While some annuals for other IPs, notably those for {{w|Rupert Bear}}, are so rare as to fetch thousands of pounds, Transformers Annuals have so far failed to attain that sort of value. Indeed, while they typically retail for £6.99-£7.99 before Christmas, after the holidays they can often be picked up for under £1.

==List of Annuals==
===Generation 1===
*[[Transformers Annual 1985]]
*[[Transformers Annual 1986]]
*[[Transformers Annual 1987]]
*[[Transformers Annual 1989]]
*[[Transformers Annual 1990]]
*[[Transformers Annual 1991]]
*[[Transformers Annual 1992]]

No, the annuals didn't skip a year – in [[1988]], Marvel changed the dating system of their annuals, so the one released that year, and in each subsequent year, was dated to the ''upcoming'' year, instead of the year of publication.

===Generation 2===
*[[The Official Transformers: Generation 2 Annual]] (1994)

===Unicron Trilogy===
*[[Transformers Armada Annual 2004]]
*[[Transformers Energon Annual 2005]]

===''Transformers'' movie===
*[[Transformers Annual 2008]]

===Transformers Animated===
*[[Transformers Animated Annual 2009]]

===Revenge of the Fallen===
*[[Transformers Revenge of the Fallen Annual 2010]]
*[[Transformers Annual 2011]]

===Dark of the Moon===
*[[Transformers Dark of the Moon Annual 2012]]

===Age of Extinction===
*[[Transformers Annual 2015]]

==IDW Annuals==
[[IDW Publishing]] has also released a handful of their own annuals to go along with their Transformers publications. Like all "annuals" in the US comic book market, they are simply longer regular-size comic books, rather than hardback, extras-loaded publications seen in the UK, and they rarely actually come out annually.

*[[Primus: You, Me, and Other Revelations|''The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye'' Annual 2012]]
*[[Primus: All Good Things|''The Transformers: Robots in Disguise'' Annual 2012]]
*[[Ghost Stories|''Transformers'' Annual 2017]]
*[[The Chosen One|''Transformers: Till All Are One'' Annual 2017]]
*[[Starscream: The Movie (comic)|''Optimus Prime'' Annual 2018]]
*[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers|''Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers'' Annual]]
*[[Light/Star|''Transformers'' Annual 2021]]
*[[Beast Wars Annual|''Beast Wars'' Annual 2022]]

[[Category:Annuals| *]]

Edmund Burton

2026-05-03T23:26:23Z

Velvet Android: Added noted about peculiarity of Sir Edmund/Lord Folgan's title(s)

:''Edmund Burton is an [[Autobot]]-allied [[human]] from [[Transformers: The Last Knight (franchise)|The Last Knight]] portion of the [[movie continuity family]].''
[[File:TLK Burton table pose.jpg|thumb|right|400px|This is season 2 of ''West World'', right?]]

Last of the [[Order of the Witwiccans]] and twelfth Earl of Folgan, Sir '''Edmund Burton''' knows all about the [[Transformer]]s and the history of their kind on [[Earth]]. Using his considerable political and financial influence, he's dedicated to keeping this history a secret and is aided in doing so by a myriad of hidden Cybertronians across the planet.

He is everything you hope to be when you grow old and everything you probably won't be.

==Fiction==
===''The Last Knight'' film===
:''Actor'': [[Anthony Hopkins]]
{{voiceactor|[[Michihiro Ikemizu]] (Japanese dub)|[[Jean-Pierre Moulin]] (European French dub), [[Jean-Marie Moncelet]] (Canadian French dub), [[Joachim Kerzel]] (German dub), [[Dario Penne]] (Italian dub), [[Li Lihong]] (Mandarin dub), [[Reinaldo Pimenta]] (Portuguese dub), [[Isaac Bardavid]] (Portuguese dub, trailers only), [[Camilo García]] (Castilian Spanish dub), [[Gabriel Pingarrón]] (Latin-American Spanish dub), [[José Lavat]] (Latin-American Spanish dub, trailers only), [[Mazlum Kiper]] (Turkish dub), [[Seol Yeong-beom]] (Korean dub)}}

Descended from a long line of complete and utter lunatics who committed suicide in a variety of inventive ways, Edmund Burton was a boy when [[World War II]] broke out where he met [[Hot Rod (DOTM)|Hot Rod]] and [[Bumblebee (Movie)|Bumblebee]]. Though Hot Rod would remain in Europe and become close friends with Burton, Bumblebee left after the War and would not remember the conflict as a particularly noteworthy event decades later. He was partly raised by [[Cogman]], a sociopathic [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] who was in service to the Burton family.

Over the years, Edmund Burton would be inducted into the Order of the Witwiccans, meet (and become greatly annoyed by) [[Seymour Simmons]] and receive a knighthood. He was friends with the father of [[Viviane Wembly]] and watched over her from afar sending Hot Rod to masquerade as her car. He also acquired a Cybertronian firearm which he concealed as a cane.

When [[Unicron|six mysterious horns]] burst out of the crust of the Earth, Sir Edmund realized [[Cybertron (planet)|the apocalypse]] was coming and visited one of the horns in [[Namibia]]. Realizing what he had to do, Sir Edmund sent Cogman to collect [[Cade Yeager]] and had Hot Rod bring him Viviane.

To Sir Edmund's great joy, Cade had been accompanied by Bumblebee. Just as Cade was about to take his leave, Hot Rod bringing a panicking Viviane convinced Yeager to stay and hear out Sir Edmund. After introducing himself and the [[watch that killed Hitler]], he showed the two to the [[Round Table]] (itself a Cybertronian artifact) and explained that the exoplanet approaching Earth was in fact Cybertron itself, that Cade was the foretold "Last Knight" and Viviane the last descendant of [[Merlin]] himself. As such, only together could the two save Earth from destruction at Cybertron's hand.

[[File:TLK EdmundBurton explanation.jpg|thumb|left|300px|Some believe that before the universe, there was nothing. They're wrong. There was darkness…and it has survived.]]

The discussion was halted when the [[Transformers Reaction Force|TRF]] and [[Secret Intelligence Service|MI6]] arrived on the grounds to arrest them. Sending Cade and Viviane to find a clue to the location of the [[Staff of Merlin]], Sir Edmund and Cogman lead the authorities on a supercar chase throughout London. While the two were busy searching for a clue that pointed them to the [[HMS Alliance|HMS ''Alliance'']], Burton was contacted by Simmons, who directed him towards the [[Book of Cyber-Kells]] in the [[Trinity Library]] that told the truth of Earth. After inducting Simmons into the Order of the Witwiccans, Sir Edmund learned from the book that Earth had formed around Unicron and the horns were the Chaos Bringer's reaction to Cybertron's approach. Arriving at the {{w|Royal Navy Submarine Museum|naval museum}}, Sir Edmund slipped a paper to the ticket booth and declared the museum closed "for an eternity". Forcing everyone off, Sir Edmund left the two in Cogman's company and saw them and Bumblebee off while he went to rally a defence.

Arriving at [[10 Downing Street]], Burton asked to see the [[Prime Minister of the United Kingdom|Prime Minister]] but was turned down by a "dickhead". Undeterred, he used the secret entrance to emerge directly into the Prime Minister's office. When several guards tried to arrest him, Sir Edmund flashed the watch that killed Hitler, threatening to unleash the psychotic Cybertronian who would have little issue killing everyone in the room. After flashing his credentials (and repeatedly telling the Prime Minister to shut up), Sir Edmund ordered him to mobilize all the [[British Armed Forces|British military forces]] to [[Stonehenge]].

Being deposited at Stonehenge by the British military, Sir Edmund witnessed [[Megatron (Movie)|Megatron]], [[Barricade (Movie)|Barricade]], and [[Nitro Zeus]] gloat about killing Unicron and opened fire on the Decepticon leader with his firearm, the signal for the military to open fire. While the three Decepticons were unable to take cover, they still proved able to best the military with Megatron being able to activate Stonehenge to prepare for the energy transference. Megatron then glimpsed Sir Edmund and cursed him before firing a blast from his [[fusion cannon]] that sent the human flying.

Cogman then ran to Sir Edmund, who claimed he'd had his moment by fighting Megatron before dying contentedly. Cogman mourned his master, declaring him the coolest Burton he'd served. {{storylink|Transformers: The Last Knight (film)|The Last Knight}}

==Notes==
*The film's 2019 prop auction reveals that a headstone was made for Burton's grave, which is never seen in the movie. It also states that the events of ''The Last Knight'' take place in the year 2017, seemingly at odds with the movie timeline.<ref>https://profilesinhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/101TransformersSs.pdf</ref>
*The filmmakers appear to have confused/conflated British hereditary peerages with knighthoods. In the credits and all the marketing – not to mention in-film – Sir Edmund Burton is universally referred to by this given name, despite the fact that he notes (on his first appearance) he is the twelfth Earl of Folgan. An earl is the third-highest rank of the peerage in the United Kingdom, behind only duke and marquess, and for there to have been twelve holders of the (fictional) earldom it must have existed since circa 1700, yet bar the single initial mention there is no indication whatsoever that his lordship holds such a lofty noble title. Since his peerage is by far the higher title, though, he should be universally referred to in-universe as either "the Earl of Folgan", "Lord Folgan" for short, or "Folgan" for shortest, and never by his familial name. While it is theoretically possible for an earl to also be knighted – an aristocratic title is ''inherited'', whereas a knighthood is ''earned'' for service to the nation, and can be conferred by the monarch upon someone who is already a peer, perhaps for services to the Order of Witwiccans – he would not be known as "Sir Edmund" since this is a lower class of honour.

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Edmund Burton''' (エドモンド・バートン ''Edomondo Bāton'')
*''Mandarin:'' '''Edmund Burton''' (Taiwan, 艾德蒙·柏頓 ''Àidéméng Bǎidùn''), (China, 艾德蒙·伯顿 ''Àidéméng Bódùn'')
*''Korean:'' '''Edmund Burton''' (에드먼드 버턴 ''Edeumeondeu Beoteon'')

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Burton, Edmund}}
[[Category:Knights]]
[[Category:Live-action-only characters]]
[[Category:Order of the Witwiccans]]
[[Category:United Kingdom military personnel]]

The Transformers Sticker Book (St. Michael)

2026-01-04T16:47:47Z

Velvet Android: /* Notes */ Explaining 'St. Michael' branding

{{comicstory|seriesissue=The Transformers Sticker Book
|title=
|image=StMichaelTFStickerBook.jpg
|caption=
|publisher=[[Macdonald & Co]] (Publishers) Ltd, exclusively for Marks & Spencer
|imprint=[[St. Michael]] Activity
|date=1987
|writer=[[Jon Sutherland]] & [[Simon Farrell]]
|illustrator=[[Alan Craddock]] (interior drawings and cover painting)
|pagecount=26
|ISBN=ISBN 0 361 07867 6
}}

'''[[You]] find yourself stranded on the planet Barrenikon. With the Autobots’ help, you must defeat the Decepticons and find your way back home!'''

==Synopsis==
{{note|Before beginning the adventure, [[you]] must determine your "strength" and "weaknesses" as they influence the outcome of the story. There are three statistics that must be taken into account: "strength," "speed," and "intelligence." There are three variations on each statistic, one "high" skill, one "medium" skill and one "low" skill. You are only allowed one of each, to distribute amongst the three statistics. For example, if you make yourself "strong" with "average" speed, you must give yourself "low" intelligence, as they correspond to one "high" skill, one "medium" skill and one "low" skill respectively.}}

<center>
{|border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" align="center" class="wikitable"
|-
! 
!style="width:7em"|Strength
!style="width:7em"|Speed
!style="width:7em"|Intelligence
|-
!High
|Strong
|Fast
|High
|-
!Medium
|Ordinary
|Average
|Average
|-
!Low
|Weak
|Slow
|Low
|}
</center>

{{anchor|Page 1}}'''(PAGE_1)''' As you pass by a cave on your bicycle route, you notice something strange about it; a shimmering mist conceals its interior from your view. Leaving behind your bicycle, you decide to explore the cavern. Once inside, you find yourself unable to see anything. You trip and find yourself tumbling through space and time, hurtling towards a pale rocky planet. You close your eyes and land with a thump. When you look about once more, you find yourself emerging from a different cave, with five great robots surrounding the cave’s mouth. {{anchor|Page 2}}'''(PAGE_2)''' The robots introduce themselves as [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]], [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]], [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]], [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] and [[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]]. After you confess that you are unsure as to how you’ve arrived on this planet, the Autobots explain that they are themselves stranded. Their alien spaceship crashed here, on planet [[Barrenikon]], while they were on the lookout for other Autobots after a battle with the Decepticons. They need to find spare parts, or a new ship, if they have any hope of becoming space-bound once more. Though their current ship can fly, it will not bear the strain of inter-planetary travel. You agree to join the Autobots’ group.

'''''Start looking for a civilization to fix the ship?'' (>>[[#Page 5 (Missile)|PAGE_5_(missile icon)]]>>)'''

'''''Search for another spaceship instead?'' (>>[[#Page 9 (Star)|PAGE_9_(star icon)]]>>)'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 2|PAGE_2]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots look for a civilization...'' {{anchor|Page 5 (Missile)}}(>>PAGE_5_(missile icon)>>)''' splitting up to better find clues to any intelligent native life. After several minutes, they regroup on your position. Ratchet informs the group that he has found a trail which leads northwards.

: '''''Do you have High Intelligence?'' (>>[[#Page 10 (Missile)|PAGE_10_(missile icon)]]>>)'''

:'''''Do you have Medium and Low Intelligence?'' (>>[[#Page 13 (Meteor)|PAGE_13_(meteor icon)]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 5 (Missile)|PAGE_5_(missile icon)]]<<)''' '''''Ratchet shows you the road...'' {{anchor|Page 10 (Missile)}}(>>PAGE_10_(missile icon)>>)''' and you notice that there has not been travel on it for centuries. You tell the Autobots the trail will most likely only lead your group to some old ruins. Your group once more explores the immediate area in the hopes of finding anything of interest. The grass beneath your feet soon gives way to sand dunes. Sandstorm calls you over to look at a strange path scorched into the sand. The two of you quickly conclude that the tracks were likely made by a ship crashing down onto the planet’s surface. You hurry to inform the rest of the group. {{anchor|Page 9 (Missile)}}'''(PAGE_9_(missile icon))''' Ultra Magnus agrees to follow the tracks, in the hopes that the downed ship might contain the spare parts they need to fix their own. The Autobots follow the tracks, only to find them to suddenly stop. Ultra Magnus realizes that they were following the tracks in the wrong direction; this is where the ship first touched down. Before the group turns around, Ultra Magnus catches a glimpse of something reflective in the distance. Springer hops over to investigate, and shortly returns. He informs the group that there are Decepticons nearby, at least five of them. '''(>>[[#Page 15 (Moon)|PAGE_15_(moon icon)]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 9 (Missile)|PAGE_9_(missile icon)]]_OR_[[#Page 5 (Moon)|PAGE_5_(moon icon)]]<<)''' {{anchor|Page 15 (Moon)}}'''(PAGE_15_(moon icon))''' The Autobots transform into their vehicle modes and attempt to put some distance between themselves and the Decepticons. You get a ride inside of Hot Rod. But the Decepticons give chase, and a helicopter Decepticon proves himself fast enough to catch up to the Autobots. He doesn’t dare attack alone, however, after Ultra Magnus sends a few missiles in his direction. As the Autobots continue to drive, Hot Rod informs you that the five Decepticons are [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]], [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]], [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]], [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]], and [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]], a group known as the "[[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]]." He further informs you that the five of them can combine together to form the powerful but slow [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]]. The Autobots race past their own crashed ship, and towards the west. After a half hour of this high-speed chase, you approach and Ultra Magnus spot something in the distance; the wreck of a downed ship. Unwilling to pass up the chance to search the ship for spare parts, Ultra Magnus orders his Autobots to go into battle formation; they will hold their ground here. '''(>>[[#Page 2 (Star)|PAGE_3_(star icon)]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 15 (Moon)|PAGE_15_(moon icon)]]_OR_[[#Page 18 (Meteor)|PAGE_18_(meteor icon)<<)'''{{anchor|Page 2 (Star)}}'''(PAGE_2_(star icon))''' As the Autobots prepare themselves for combat, you look about for a place to hide. You settle on throwing yourself behind a nearby sand dune. The Autobots manage to drive off their enemies, and the Combaticons retreat. Ultra Magnus warns his squad that they will soon be back with reinforcements, however. {{anchor|Page 6 (Star)}}'''(PAGE_6_(star icon))''' You rejoin the Autobots, who busy themselves looking over the crashed ship. After a little while, Ratchet announces that nearly all of the parts they need are here. The only thing missing is a power pack, as their own is low on energy. Without extra power, the Autobots cannot break free of Barrenikon’s gravitational pull. Springer is sent out to scout for the Decepticons’ camp while the rest of the Autobots work towards fixing their own ship. Springer soon reports back, and informs Ultra Magnus that the Decepticon camp is some twenty miles to the north of their position. Ultra Magnus considers two different possible options;

:: '''''Stay with the ship and hope for a rescue?'' (>>[[#Page 3 (Missile)|PAGE_3_(missile icon)]]>>)'''

::'''''Preemptively attack the Decepticons' camp?'' (>>[[#Page 7 (star)|PAGE_7_(star icon)]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 6 (Star)|PAGE_6_(star icon)]]<<)''' '''''Ultra Magnus decides to stay at the ship and hope for a rescue.'' {{anchor|Page 3 (Missile)}}(>>PAGE_3_(missile icon)>>)''' As he announces his decision, there is a distant boom and swishing sound, that Hot Rod recognizes as the Decepticons’ ship taking off. Overhead, the faint shape of a ship is seen flying off into deep space. It seems that the Autobots wounded the Decepticons more than they initially thought. The Decepticons retreated instead of continuing their assault. Ultra Magnus explains that though he and his troops are stranded on the planet until someone finds them, you need not stay on Barrenikon as you can likely find your way back home by entering the cave from where you emerged.

:::'''''Enter the vortex through a cave.'' (>>[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 3 (Missile)|PAGE_3_(missile icon)]]_OR_[[#Page 18 (Moon)|PAGE_18_(moon icon)]]<<)''' '''''THE VORTEX'' {{anchor|Page 17}}(>>PAGE_17>>)''' [THE VORTEX is an illustrated maze within the book. Depending on which cave you choose to enter, you are led to a different page.]

::::'''''CAVE A (In the East, North of the swamp)'' (>>[[#Page 6 (Missile)|PAGE_6_(missile icon)]]>>)'''

::::'''''CAVE B (In the North, beyond the old abandoned crashed ship)'' (>>[[#Page 19 (Moon)|PAGE_19_(moon icon)]]>>)'''

::::'''''CAVE C (In the West, deep in the desert)'' (>>[[#Page 5 (Star)|PAGE_5_(star icon)]]>>)'''

::::'''''CAVE D (In the South, overlooking the Autobots’ crashed ship)'' (>>[[#Page 15 (Meteor)|PAGE_15_(meteor icon)]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''You enter CAVE A.'' {{anchor|Page 6 (Missile)}}(>>PAGE_6_(missile icon)>>)''' When you reemerge, you find yourself before an unfamiliar landscape. You chose the wrong cave! You return through the VORTEX to restart your adventure. '''(>>[[#Page 1|PAGE_1]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''You enter CAVE B.'' {{anchor|Page 19 (Moon)}}(>>PAGE_19_(moon icon)>>)''' As you walk towards the back of the cave, your surroundings become darker and darker. Your suddenly feel yourself spinning down into nothingness. In your last moments, you realize that you are being sucked into a black hole.

:::::'''''THE END'''''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''You enter CAVE C.'' {{anchor|Page 5 (Star)}}(>>PAGE_5_(star icon)>>)''' You stumble out of the cave. Though you have found your way back to your planet, you have missed your target by one hundred million years; the Earth you have arrived on is still under the rule of the Dinosaurs! You return through the vortex to restart your adventure. '''(>>[[#Page 1|PAGE_1]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''You enter CAVE D.'' {{anchor|Page 15 (Meteor)}}(>>PAGE_15_(meteor icon)>>)''' When you reemerge, finding yourself safely back home, and with the knowledge that you helped save your new Autobot friends.

:::::'''''THE END'''''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 6 (Star)|PAGE_6_(star icon)]]<<)''' '''''Ultra Magnus decides to attack the Decepticon camp.'' {{anchor|Page 7 (Star)}}(>>PAGE_7_(star icon)>>)''' He suggests that they might be able to steal the Decepticons’ power pack, and with it, the Autobots would be able to leave the planet’s gravitational pull. Though at first, Ultra Magnus wants to leave you behind, you convince him that you may come in useful due to your small size. When your group happens upon the Decepticon ship, you sneak in through its back door, close to the ship’s generators. Within the ship, Swindle happens upon your group and raises the alarm before anyone can stop him. The rest of the Decepticons arrive to battle the Autobots, and force them back, room after room. As you run ahead of your group, you spot what you think looks like a power pack. But it is on the far side of the room, much closer to the Decepticons than the Autobots.

::: '''''Is your Speed Fast or Average?'' (>>[[#Page 16 (Moon)|PAGE_16_(moon icon)]]>>)'''

:::'''''Is your Speed Slow?'' (>>[[#Page 11 (Meteor)|PAGE_11_(meteor icon)]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 7 (Star)|PAGE_7_(star icon)]]<<)''' '''''You make a run for the Power Pack...'' {{anchor|Page 16 (Moon)}}(>>PAGE_16_(moon icon)>>)''' knowing full well that without it, the Autobots have no hope of escaping Barrenikon. Once you have reached the power pack, you quickly check to make sure that no one has noticed you, before grabbing it and making your way back to the Autobots. Hot Rod spots you coming towards him, and when he notices what you are carrying, he shifts his position so that you are blocked from the Decepticons’ view. You run out of the ship, and after about a mile of running, collapse in the desert sand from exhaustion while the Autobots cover your retreat. Ratchet soon breaks off from the others, and drives over to you. He informs you that the power pack is the only one the Decepticons have, and if the Autobots manage to make it off planet with it, they will leave the Decepticons unable to pursue them off-planet. Ratchet drives you back to the Autobot ship, where he installs the power pack. You then both fly over to the battlefield, and pick up the rest of the group, before taking off, leaving the Decepticons behind. '''(>>[[#Page 18 (Moon)|PAGE_18_(moon icon)]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 16 (Moon)|PAGE_16_(moon icon)]]_OR_[[#Page 8 (Missile)|PAGE_8_(missile icon)]]<<)''' {{anchor|Page 18 (Moon)}}'''(>>PAGE_18_(moon icon)>>)''' Ultra Magnus thanks you for your help in defeating the Decepticons and escaping this planet. Unfortunately, their space ship is not designed for prolonged trips through inter-stellar space, and Earth is a long ways from Barrenikon. However, the ship’s sensors are able to detect the vortex within Barrenikon from which you initially emerged. Each cave may lead you to a different point in space and time, and you must carefully consider which cave to enter. The Autobots can drop you off at the cave of your choosing.

::::'''''Enter the vortex through a cave.'' (>>[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 7 (Star)|PAGE_7_(star icon)]]<<)''' '''''Despite your slow speed, you make an attempt for the power pack.'' {{anchor|Page 11 (Meteor)}}(>>PAGE_11_(meteor icon)>>)''' You know that without it, the Autobots are at a complete disadvantage against the Decepticons. You manage to make your way to the power pack, and grab it. On your way back, however, [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] drives the Autobots out of their ship, and you find yourself cut off from your escape route. You attempt to hide, but Blast Off spots you and snatches you up in his metal grip. Blast Off then takes the power pack away from you, and puts you in the ship’s hold as his prisoner. '''(>>[[#Page 10 (Meteor)|PAGE_10_(meteor icon)]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 11 (Meteor)|PAGE_11_(meteor icon)]]_OR_[[#Page 12 (Meteor)|PAGE_12_(meteor icon)]]<<)''' {{anchor|Page 10 (Meteor)}}'''(PAGE_10_(meteor icon))''' You stumble about in the Decepticons’ hold for what seems to be hours. Finding no obvious means of escape, you come across a computer, and turn it on. The keyboard isn’t lettered, however, and you must figure out how to ask it the questions you want answered.

:::: '''''Do you have High Intelligence?'' (>>[[#Page 13 (Moon)|PAGE_13_(moon icon)]]>>)'''

::::'''''Do you have Medium and Low Intelligence?'' (>>[[#Page 9 (Meteor)|PAGE_9_(meteor icon)]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 10 (Meteor)|PAGE_10_(meteor icon)]]<<)''' '''''You come to the realization that not all Decepticons would be able to type on a human-scaled keyboard.'' {{anchor|Page 13 (Moon)}}(>>PAGE_11_(moon icon)>>)''' With this in mind, you come to the conclusion that the computer probably responds to oral commands. Your hunch proves correct, as the computer informs you that it will follow your commands. The Decepticons never considered that you would use their machinery, and as such never bothered to user-protect their computer. You order the computer to open the hold door, and it complies. Before you head out, you remember that the Autobots still need a power pack. You order the computer to close the door once more, so that you can continue your search for one in privacy. {{anchor|Page 14}}'''(PAGE_14)''' You order the computer to show you where the spare power packs are stored. The computer monitor displays a map for you. The map is hard to understand, but you decipher enough of it to realize that the power packs are stored in one of two possible rooms, depending on what the symbols on the screen mean.

:::::'''''Go to room XP764?'' (>>[[#Page 8 (Missile)|PAGE_8_(missile icon)]]>>)'''

:::::'''''Go to room RO645?'' (>>[[#Page 19 (Star)|PAGE_19_(star icon)]]>>)'''

::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 14|PAGE_14]]<<)''' '''''You head for the room marked "XP764."'' {{anchor|Page 8 (Missle)}}(>>PAGE_8_(missile icon)>>)''' Leaving the hold as quietly as you can, you creep alongside the corridors within the Decepticons’ ship. You finally arrive in the generator room and find in the corner a single power pack connected to the machinery. You disconnect it, and begin to lug the heavy box along. Nearby, you hear the sound of fighting; the Autobots are attacking the Decepticons! You stumble towards the room where the fighting is taking place. When you enter the room, Hot Rod is the first to spot you. He shifts his position so as to block the Decepticons’ view of your arrival. You manage to avoid getting hit, and exit the Decepticons’ ship, the power pack still in your arms. Ratchet soon breaks off from the others, and drives over to you. He informs you that the power pack is the only one the Decepticons have, and if the Autobots manage to make it off planet with it, they will leave the Decepticons unable to pursue them off-planet. Ratchet drives you back to the Autobot ship, where he installs the power pack. You then both fly over to the battlefield, and pick up the rest of the group, before taking off, leaving the Decepticons behind. '''(>>[[#Page 18 (Moon)|PAGE_18_(moon icon)]]>>)'''

::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 14|PAGE_14]]_OR_[[#Page 9 (Meteor)|PAGE_9_(meteor icon)]]<<)''' '''''You head for the room marked "RO645."'' {{anchor|Page 19 (Star)}}(>>PAGE_19_(star icon)>>)''' Leaving the hold as quietly as you can, you creep alongside the corridors within the Decepticons’ ship. Before long, however, you find yourself lost in the massive expanse of corridors in the Decepticon ship. Before panic fully grips you, you hear the loud metal clanking of nearby footsteps. Realizing that it could be Ratchet in the process of disconnecting a power pack, you rush over towards the sound. As you enter the room from where the sound is coming from, you yell out to Ratchet, only to be met by [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]], the leader of the Decepticons. In your mad rush to escape from Galvatron, you run into an adjoining room bathed in a purple light. As it turns out, this is the ship’s disintegration chamber. Your energy is drained away, and you slumpt to the floor, at Galvatron’s mercy.

::::::'''''THE END'''''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 10 (Meteor)|PAGE_10_(meteor icon)]]<<)''' '''''You try to figure out the Decepticons’ computer to no avail.'' {{anchor|Page 9 (Meteor)}}(>>PAGE_9_(meteor icon)>>)''' You finally simply give up in disgust. You then go to sleep for a few hours, only to wake to the sound of fighting. The door to the hold opens, and you see Ratchet signalling towards you from beyond the threshold. Ratchet uses the Decepticons’ computer to pinpoint the location of the Decepticons’ power packs, and the two of you head out. But as you head down a corridor that ends in a branch, Cyclonus comes into view and begins shooting at the two of you. While Ratchet holds him off, you must decide which corridor to proceed into.

:::::'''''Go into the left corridor?'' (>>[[#Page 19 (Star)|PAGE_19_(star icon)]]>>)'''

:::::'''''Go into the right corridor'' (>>[[#Page 4 (Moon)|PAGE_4_(moon icon)]]>>)'''

::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 9 (Meteor)|PAGE_9_(meteor icon)]]<<)''' '''''You go into the right corridor.'' {{anchor|Page 4 (Moon)}}(>>PAGE_4_(moon icon)>>)''' As you run, you notice Cyclonus chasing you. Ratchet is nowhere to be found. You duck into a door, and find yourself at a dead end. As Cyclonus encroaches towards you, you back up between two machines. These turn out to be the ship’s engines, who slowly begin to sap away at your life force. You collapse to the floor, unable to run from Cyclonus anymore…

::::::'''''THE END'''''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 5 (Missile)|PAGE_5_(missile icon)]]<<)''' '''''You and the Autobots decide to head down the trail.'' {{anchor|Page 13 (Meteor)}}(>>PAGE_13_(meteor icon)>>)''' Ultra Magnus transforms into his truck-trailer mode, and carries the other Autobots in his trailer to conserve fuel. You drive for what seems like hours, with nothing appearing over the horizon as the miles roll by. Eventually, Ultra Magnus stops, telling the others to disembark as he is himself running low on power. The other Autobots take turn giving you a ride as you continue down the path. Hot Rod eventually reports seeing a spaceship ahead, but as it turns out, it is the Autobots’ own. You have been going in a circle.

::'''''Return to the beginning of the book and try again.'' (>>[[#Page 1|PAGE_1]]>>)'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 2|PAGE_2]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots decide to look for another ship for components.'' {{anchor|Page 9 (Star)}}(>>PAGE_9_(star icon)>>)''' Springer is sent to scout out the environment while Ratchet works on the repairs he can complete for the moment being. Sandstorm notices that the ship’s power reserves are low, and comment that even with the ship repaired, they wouldn’t be able to get very far. Springer then returns and tells the others that There is nothing of interest at the North or South of their location. He advises going either East or West.

:'''''Head to the West?'' (>>[[#Page 18 (Meteor)|PAGE_18_(meteor icon)]]>>)'''

:'''''Head to the East?'' (>>[[#Page 15 (Star)|PAGE_15_(star icon)]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 9 (Star)|PAGE_9_(star icon)]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots head West.'' {{anchor|Page 18 (Meteor)}}(>>PAGE_18_(meteor icon)>>)''' Ultra Magnus transforms in his vehicle mode, and the rest of the team load up inside of his trailer. He drives his team for the better part of an hour before an old abandon ship comes into view. The Autobots resume their robot modes and overlook the downed craft. Springer confirms that they will be able to find the parts they need inside, but before you can take a look for yourself, Hot Rod spots a cloud of dust approaching from the horizon. The Decepticons are approaching! Ultra Magnus orders you to hide.

:: '''''Is your Speed Fast?'' (>>[[#Page 2 (Star)|PAGE_2_(star icon)]]>>)'''

::'''''Is your Speed Average or Slow?'' (>>[[#Page 4 (Star)|PAGE_4_(star icon)]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 18 (Meteor)|PAGE_18_(meteor icon)]]<<)''' '''''You are unable to make it to cover before the Decepticons arrive.'' {{anchor|Page 4 (Star)}}(>>PAGE_4_(star icon)>>)''' Ultra Magnus shields you from Decepticon fire while the other Autobots scatter. An explosion behind you sends you in a panic, and you take off running. When the smoke clears, neither the Autobots or the Decepticons are anywhere to be seen. You wander around for a while, until you hear a faint hum min sound coming from the distance. You instinctively duck for cover, only to find yourself slipping down a rock-hewn slope, and fall into a stinking swamp. You are unable to run from the humming sound as you find yourself trapped in the swamp’s muddy waters. '''(>>[[#Page 12 (Meteor)|PAGE_12_(meteor icon)]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 4 (Star)|PAGE_4_(star icon)]]_OR_[[#Page 3 (Star)|PAGE_3_(star icon)]]<<)''' {{anchor|Page 12 (Meteor)}}'''(PAGE_12_(meteor icon))''' Onslaught drags you out of the swamp. Then, the other Combatticons join with him to form [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]], and the combined robot carries you away. You attempt to start a conversation with Bruticus, only to be met with silence. After an hour of silent lumbering, Bruticus brings you to the Decepticon spaceship, and throws you in its hold. The door slams shut, and you are trapped within. Exploring the room, you wonder to yourself if the Autobots know that you have been captured. '''(>>[[#Page 10 (Meteor)|PAGE_10_(meteor icon)]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 9 (Star)|PAGE_9_(star icon)]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots head East.'' {{anchor|Page 15 (Star)}}(>>PAGE_15_(star icon)>>)''' Ultra Magnus transforms into his vehicle mode, and the rest of the Autobots hitch a ride inside of his trailer. You drive for almost an hour before your path is blocked off by a swamp. Seeing as you are unlikely to be spotted due to your small size, you volunteer to explore the swamp ahead of the group. You push your way through the muddy waters before finding yourself stuck. You have just stepped into some quicksand!

:: '''''Is your Strength Weak?'' (>>[[#Page 3 (Star)|PAGE_3_(star icon)]]>>)'''

::'''''Is your Strength Strong or Ordinary?'' (>>[[#Page 5 (Moon)|PAGE_5_(moon icon)]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 15 (Star)|PAGE_15_(star icon)]]<<)''' '''''You are unable to free yourself from the quicksand.'' {{anchor|Page 3 (Star)}}(>>PAGE_3_(star icon)>>)''' You begin to shout from help, but you sink all the way to your chest before you get a hear a sign that you are not alone. From the edge of the swamp comes the sounds of a great battle. You wonder what is happening. The Autobots have told you about their enemies, the Decepticons, but you didn’t know there would be any on this planet. Then, Springer comes crashing through some nearby trees. He doesn’t have the time to stay and help you out, but he quickly ties a rope to a nearby tree and tosses you the other end. He then hops away, in an attempt to lead the Decepticons from the area. You soon notice that the sounds of the battle have ceased. A robot hand pulls you out of the mud, and thinking that the Autobots must have won, you thank Hot Rod for coming back for you before you see your rescuer’s face. It isn’t Hot Rod; the Decepticon before you introduces himself as Onslaught, and declares that you are his prisoner. '''(>>[[#Page 12 (Meteor)|PAGE_12_(meteor icon)]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 15 (Star)|PAGE_15_(star icon)]]<<)''' '''''You manage to carefully pull yourself out of the quicksand.'' {{anchor|Page 5 (Moon)}}(>>PAGE_5_(moon icon)>>)''' You then cautiously make your way back to where the Autobots are waiting, watching where your feet land every step of the way. When you report that the swamp is full of quicksand, Ultra Magnus decides that it would be unwise to attempt crossing it. Just as the Autobots are getting ready to retrace their steps, Hot Rod spots a cloud of dust rising from over the horizon. The Decepticons are moving towards your position. '''(>>[[#Page 15 (Moon)|PAGE_15_(moon icon)]]>>)'''

==Additional content==
* Map of Barrenikon (Used to coordinate your relative position as the story progresses)
* Barrenikon landscape illustration. (for stickers) Cave placements correspond to page 17, "THE VORTEX."
* Spaceship interior illustration (for stickers)
* Sticker sheets: Onslaught (robot mode/vehicle mode), Ratchet (robot mode/vehicle mode), Hot Rod (robot mode/vehicle mode), Brawl (robot mode/vehicle mode), Blast Off (robot mode/vehicle mode), Swindle (robot mode/vehicle mode), Vortex (robot mode/vehicle mode), Ultra Magnus (robot mode/vehicle mode), Cyclonus (robot mode/vehicle mode), Galvatron (robot mode/vehicle mode), Springer (robot mode/helicopter mode/car mode), Sandstorm (robot mode/helicopter mode/car mode), Bruticus.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters|nonumbering=true
|c1=
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]
* [[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]]
* [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]]
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]]
* [[Springer (G1)|Springer]]

|c2=
* [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]]
* [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]]
* [[Vortex (G1)|Vortex]]
* [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]]
* [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]]
* [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]]
* [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]]
* [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]]

|c3=
* [[You]]
}}

==Notes==
* According to the illustrations, you are a young white male.
* The art is entirely toy-based. Including Ratchet, oh yeah.
* The publishing 'imprint', St. Michael, was simply the name of the broad in-house brand used by Marks & Spencer, one of the UK's largest and oldest department store chains, across almost all its product ranges between 1927-2000. The sticker book was sold exclusively in M & S stores.

==External links==
*[http://web.archive.org/web/20070621115641/http://www.physics.ohio-state.edu/~sstoneb/tf/books/st-michael/activity/activity.html The Transformers Sticker Book on Demian's Gamebook Web Page]

[[Category:Generation 1 multipath adventures]]
[[Category:Generation 1 activity books]]

Swamp of the Scorpion

2026-01-04T16:03:53Z

Velvet Android: /* Notes */ Re-adding the mysteriously lost opening two-thirds of the sentence to the otherwise orphaned link in the closing line of text

{{comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[The Transformers Adventure Game Books]]''
|next=Desert of Danger
|prev=Highway Clash
|image=Corgi-5-Swamp of the Scorpion.jpg
|caption=
|title="Swamp of the Scorpion"
|publisher=[[Corgi Books]]
|published=Great Britain
|imprint=Young Corgi Adventure/Adventure Game Books
|date=1987
|writers=[[Dave Morris]]
|illustrator=[[Bob Harvey]] (interior pencils and cover painting)
|pagecount=72pp
|ISBN=ISBN 0 552 525014
}}

'''[[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] plans to steal from a [[oil|oil rig]] to fuel the Decepticons' plans of conquest. You must team up with the Autobot [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] to save your home planet of [[Nebulos]]!'''
==Synopsis==
{{anchor|page 1}}
;'''Page 1'''

[[You]] are a young [[Nebulan]]. You work as a technician on an oil rig which is built on the edge of the great swamp that covers much of the southern continent of [[Nebulos]]. An important job, as this rig taps into the [[oil]] deposits that supply most of the planet’s fuel needs. One evening, at the end of the week, when the rest of your coworkers have already left for the Nebulan "weekend," you notice a flashing light in the radio room. Someone is attempting to initiate contact with the oil rig.

'''''Answer the radio?'' [[#page 7|page 7]]'''

'''''Ignore the incoming message?'' [[#page 35|page 35]]'''

{{anchor|page 7}}
:;Page 7
:''(From [[#page 1|page 1]])''

:'''''You answer the radio.'''''
:Once you answer the call, the symbol of the heroic Autobots appears on the viewscreen. You hear a voice that identifies itself as [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]], and requests immediate assistance. The Autobot has crash-landed in the swamp, and is rapidly sinking in quicksand. You jot down Highbrow’s coordinates. Though he is only a few kilometres away, the situation seems very urgent.

:'''''Head out right away to come to Highbrow’s aid?'' [[#page 15|page 15]]'''

:'''''Attempt to find other people to go with you first?'' [[#page 23|page 23]]'''

{{anchor|page 15}}
::;Page 15
::''(From [[#page 7|page 7]] or [[#page 23|page 23]])''

::'''''You head out to rescue Highbrow immediately.'''''
::You grab a [[hover-scull]] from storage, to easily skim over the swamp’s rough terrain. It is nearly sunset when you locate the sinking Autobot, and you find him submerged almost all the way to his head in the quicksand. If you do not act quickly, he will sink forever.

::'''''Hover over Highbrow and try to pull him out of the quicksand?'' [[#page 36|page 36]]'''

::'''''Fetch the end of some creepers for him to grab onto?'' [[#page 42|page 42]]'''

::'''''Try pushing a log out to him so he can haul himself free?'' [[#page 49|page 49]]'''

{{anchor|page 36}}
:::;Page 36
:::''(From [[#page 15|page 15]])''

:::'''''You hover over Highbrow and attempt to pull him out of the quicksand.'''''
:::Using a rope to secure Highbrow’s head to the scull, and set your vehicle’s jets to full throttle. But the scull’s jets are not powerful enough to haul Highbrow out of the quicksand, and he continues to sink. The mud is up to his mouth now.

:::'''''Fetch the end of some creepers for Highbrow to grab onto?'' [[#page 42|page 42]]'''

:::'''''Push a log out to Highbrow so he can haul himself free?'' [[#page 56|page 56]]'''

{{anchor|page 42}}
::::;Page 42
::::''(From [[#page 15|page 15]] or [[#page 36|page 36]])''

::::'''''You fetch some creepers for Highbrow to grab onto.'''''
::::These plants are nearly as strong as steel cables. You choose two of which look particularly thick, and pull them over towards the sinking Autobot. He struggles to grasp the creepers, but once he has them firmly in his hands, he is able to haul himself out of the mud pit, and assume his helicopter mode. '''[[#page 64|page 64]]'''

{{anchor|page 64}}
::::;Page 64
::::''(From [[#page 42|page 42]] or [[#page 49|page 49]])''

::::Highbrow notices that the wind generated by his twin rotors is too powerful for you to stand, and so finds a patch of firm ground to land onto and resume his robot mode. Highbrow apologizes, and notices that your hover-scull was damaged by his rotor-draft. You assure him that you can fix the device later, and that you are simply glad that he is no longer in danger. Highbrow sincerely thanks you for rescuing him, and asks if you are willing to lend him a helping hand once more.

::::'''''Tell Highbrow you are willing to help?'' [[#page 8|page 8]]'''

::::'''''Ask Highbrow how he came to be stuck in the quicksand first?'' [[#page 16|page 16]]'''

::::'''''Ask Highbrow why he’s here first?'' [[#page 22|page 22]]'''

{{anchor|page 8}}
:::::;Page 8
:::::''(From [[#page 16|page 16]] or [[#page 22|page 22]] or [[#page 64|page 64]] or [[#page 67|page 67]])''

:::::'''''You tell Highbrow you are ready to help him.'''''
:::::You ask the Autobot to fill you in on what is going on, and how you can help. In response, Highbrow opens a storage compartment built into his leg. He tells you that any one of these items can help you function as a very effective assistant. But he warns you that the items are bulky, and you shouldn’t attempt to carry more than one. Additionally, if you do choose to carry one of these items, they risk impeding your ability to quickly progress through the swamp. Which (if any) of the items will you take?

:::::'''''A radio transmitter?'' [[#page 50|page 50]]'''

:::::'''''A Transformer detector?'' [[#page 43|page 43]]'''

:::::'''''An electronic circuit-jammer?'' [[#page 57|page 57]]'''

:::::'''''A [[laser cannon]]?'' [[#page 65|page 65]]'''

:::::'''''None of the items?'' [[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 50}}
::::::;Page 50
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]])''

::::::'''''You take the radio transmitter.'''''
::::::The device is nearly as big as you are. Highbrow explains that it is atomically powered in order for it to penetrate the foil leaves of the jungle. The radio needs to be so large in order to safely shield its user from its power source. You strap the radio onto your back, and Highbrow tells you that you may use it to signal him at any time. '''[[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 70}}
[[File:Swamp of the Scorpion Highbrow.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1]]
::::::;Page 70
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]] or [[#page 43|page 43]] or [[#page 50|page 50]] or [[#page 57|page 57]] or [[#page 65|page 65]])''

::::::Highbrow explains that he has been sent to investigate and halt nearby Decepticon activity before any innocent civilians are put in harm’s way. His fellow Autobot [[Brainstorm (G1)|Brainstorm]] was to accompany him, but Brainstorm overheated his power-lines and had to stop at a nearby city for repairs. [[Gort|Grot]]{{sic}}, Highbrow’s Nebulan companion, stayed behind to help Brainstorm. [[Arcana]], the Autobot-Nebulan alliance’s biomechanics engineer, was able to build Highbrow a spare head for him to use while his [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] partner is away. Although you are a little confused by the enormous influx of new information that Highbrow is delivering, you understand the general idea of the situation at hand. You are to be Higbrow’s temporary Nebulan partner; you won’t transform to become his head, but can help Highbrow on other important tasks he wouldn’t be able to accomplish on his own.

::::::'''''Suggest that Highbrow take to the air while you reconnoitre on foot?'' [[#page 2|page 2]]'''

::::::'''''Suggest that you both get airborne?'' [[#page 9|page 9]]'''

::::::'''''Suggest you both explore the swamp on foot?'' [[#page 17|page 17]]'''

{{anchor|page 2}}
:::::::;Page 2
:::::::''(From [[#page 70|page 70]])''

:::::::'''''Highbrow takes to the air while you explore the swamp on foot.'''''
:::::::Because, like most Nebulan life-forms, the jungle’s foliage has a silicate metabolism, Highbrow’s sensors cannot penetrate it. You will explore the swamp on foot, and call to Highbrow for help if ever you need it. As Highbrow soars higher in his helicopter mode, he warns you not to try and take on the Decepticons on your own. '''[[#page 24|page 24]]'''

{{anchor|page 24}}
:::::::;Page 24
:::::::''(From [[#page 2|page 2]] or [[#page 9|page 9]])''

:::::::You move quickly through the jungle while Highbrow tracks your movements as best he can from the air. About an hour into your search, you see a light approaching you, accompanied by the sound of a small motor. You deduce that there is a hovercraft coming towards you.

:::::::'''''Do you have the radio, and wish to use it to call Highbrow?'' [[#page 31|page 31]]'''

:::::::'''''Do you have the laser cannon, and want to get ready to fire it at whoever is approaching?'' [[#page 44|page 44]]'''

:::::::'''''Do you not have, or don’t want to use, either of these items?'' [[#page 38|page 38]]'''

{{anchor|page 31}}
::::::::;Page 31
::::::::''(From [[#page 24|page 24]])''

::::::::'''''You use the radio to call Highbrow.'''''
::::::::You tell your Autobot companion about the hovercraft as quietly as possible, and he soon answers that he can see the incoming vehicle from his viewpoint. Highbrow tells you he has cut his rotors, and is now gliding down in order to take the hovercraft’s driver by surprise. Two Nebulans then enter the clearing before you; a tall lordly figure and his thuggish henchman. The lord draws a [[Plasma blaster|plasma gun]] and points it towards you. You realize that you do not have the time to turn and run before he pulls the trigger. '''[[#page 54|page 54]]'''

{{anchor|page 54}}
::::::::;Page 54
::::::::''(From [[#page 31|page 31]])''

::::::::Suddenly, the two Nebulans are knocked unconscious after being hit by a painful shower of luminous raindrops. Highbrow, having changed to robot mode in mid-air, lands next to you, and tells you that the projectiles that hit your aggressors were courtesy of his [[Acid rainmaker rifle|corrosive rainmaker rifles]]. '''[[#page 47|page 47]]'''

{{anchor|page 47}}
::::::::;Page 47
::::::::''(From [[#page 32|page 32]] or [[#page 54|page 54]])''

::::::::Looking over the unconscious Nebulans, Highbrow identifies them as the evil [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] and [[Krunk]]. He notes that Krunk is especially nasty, having been [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] to the Decepticon [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]]. And Zarak’s presence indicates that whatever the Decepticons are up to, it must be something important. You ask Highbrow what you should do with your prisonners? '''[[#page 62|page 62]]'''

{{anchor|page 62}}
::::::::;Page 62
::::::::''(From [[#page 47|page 47]])''

::::::::Highbrow tells you his plan while he repairs the evil Nebulan’s hovercraft. While up in the air, he spotted a city. He has concluded that it is a Decepticon base, and where Zarak and Krunk were headed towards it. Highbrow ties and gags Zarak and Krunk, props them up on the once-more functional hovercraft, and guides it forwards towards the city as a makeshift decoy. Zarak wakes up on route, but can only grunt indignantly. Less than a quarter of an hour later, you have reached the city. '''[[#page 68|page 68]]'''

{{anchor|page 68}}
::::::::;Page 68
::::::::''(From [[#page 62|page 62]])''

::::::::The city is a sprawling complex of purple and green metal. The Nebulan [[Grax]] waits at the base of a ramp leading into the city. Highbrow tells you that he is a unscrupulous industrialist who sees the Autobots as a threat to free enterprise. Seeing the incoming hovercraft’s light piercing the night, Grax greets his master, Lord Zarak. Two Decepticons emerge from the city; [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]] and Snapdragon. Highbrow tells you that though the two robots will be more difficult to deal with, taking care of Grax will be an easy job. He uses a nearby log to jam the hovercraft’s accelerator full on. Not expecting this turn of events, Grax is knocked into the city’s metal wall by the hovercraft. '''[[#page 5|page 5]]'''

{{anchor|page 5}}
::::::::;Page 5
::::::::''(From [[#page 48|page 48]] or [[#page 68|page 68]])''

::::::::Recognizing the incoming Highbrow, Skullcruncher and Snapdragon spring into action. Snapdragon unleashes a blast of his [[Gyro gun|gyro-gun]] onto Highbrow before the Autobot can use his own weapons, causing Highbrow to collapse dizzily to the ground. Meanwhile, the Nebulans have recovered. Krunk and Grax join their respective Decepticon companions, and Zarak rushes into the city, calling for [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] to awaken and destroy his enemies. The entire city then rises up and transforms into a gigantic robot scorpion. With Highbrow not yet recovered from the Decepticon’s attack, it’s up to you to make the next move.

::::::::'''''Do you have a laser cannon?'' [[#page 12|page 12]]'''

::::::::'''''Have you found a magnetic pistol in an underground ruin?'' [[#page 58|page 58]]'''

::::::::'''''Do you have neither the cannon nor the pistol?'' [[#page 20|page 20]]'''

{{anchor|page 12}}
:::::::::;Page 12
:::::::::''(From [[#page 5|page 5]])''

:::::::::'''''You ready your laser cannon.'''''
:::::::::Scorponok and Snapdragon are your nearest targets. Which one will you fire towards?

:::::::::'''''Scorponok?'' [[#page 27|page 27]]'''

:::::::::'''''Snapdragon?'' [[#page 33|page 33]]'''

{{anchor|page 27}}
::::::::::;Page 27
::::::::::''(From [[#page 12|page 12]])''

::::::::::'''''You fire on Scorponok...'''''
::::::::::Only for the blast to ineffectually glance off his metal armour. You do not get the chance for a second shot as Scorponok’s pincer closes in around you...

::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 33}}
::::::::::;Page 33
::::::::::''(From [[#page 12|page 12]])''

::::::::::'''''You fire on Snapdragon...'''''
::::::::::Just as he is readying another blast from his gyro-gun. In a stroke of luck, Snapdragon is thrown off-balance by the shot and blasts Scorponok with his gyro-gun’s disorienting ray. Scorponok loses his balance and topples onto Skullcruncher, pinning him to the ground. Highbrow recovers, and while Snapdragon is still struggling from being hit, lays a mighty punch onto the Decepticon. You cheer as Snapdragon collapses into the mud. '''[[#page 72|page 72]]'''

{{anchor|page 72}}
::::::::::;Page 72
::::::::::''(From [[#page 14|page 14]] or [[#page 33|page 33]] or [[#page 58|page 58]])''

::::::::::Once his fellow Autobots arrive to help him with the battle’s aftermath, Highbrow returns you to the oil rig. You ask Highbrow what will happen to the Decepticon captive, only to be informed that they will be exchanged for Autobot prisoners of war. Highbrow tells you that today’s victory was quite minor, but you tell him that it counted for a lot more than Highbrow gives it credit. The Decepticons have been stopped from gaining access to the local oil wells, and possibly killing all those who work at the rig. This cheers Highbrow up, who in turn tells you that victory wouldn’t have been possible without your help.

::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 58}}
[[File:Swamp of the Scorpion Skullcruncher attacks.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb]]
:::::::::;Page 58
:::::::::''(From [[#page 5|page 5]] or [[#page 37|page 37]])''

:::::::::'''''You ready your magnetic pistol.'''''
:::::::::Aiming at Snapdragon, you pull the weapon’s trigger. Snapdragon is flung against Scorponok with tremendous force. While you hold your magnetic ray in Scorponok and Snapdragon’s direction, Highbrow rushes forwards to deal with Skullcruncher. Highbrow jams one of his rainmaker rifles into Skullcruncher’s alligator maw, causing its ammo pod to burst. A torrent of corrosive acid streams down Skullcruncher’s throat, prompting him to revert to robot mode. Highbrow then holds Skullcruncher at gunpoint with his second rifle, and forces the Decepticon to surrender. '''[[#page 72|page 72]]'''

{{anchor|page 20}}
:::::::::;Page 20
:::::::::''(From [[#page 5|page 5]])''

:::::::::'''''You find yourself without a weapon with which you can help Highbrow.'''''
:::::::::The ground quakes as Scorponok edges closer. You run to Highbrow’s side, but are too small and weak to help him get up. You look up to see Lord Zarak at Scorponok’s controls. He makes one of Scorponok’s pinchers reach towards you. You cannot get out of the way without leaving Highbrow behind. The pincher begins to close around you. This is...

:::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 44}}
::::::::;Page 44
::::::::''(From [[#page 24|page 24]])''

::::::::'''''You get ready to fire the laser cannon towards whoever is approaching.'''''
::::::::When the hovercraft comes into view, you see that a tall Nebulan nobleman and his guard are sitting within. They address one another as "Lord Zarak" and "Krunk," respectively. When he sees you, armed with the laser cannon, Zarak orders Krunk to accelerate forwards. He means to run you down before you can use the laser! '''[[#page 32|page 32]]'''

{{anchor|page 32}}
::::::::;Page 32
::::::::''(From [[#page 10|page 10]] or [[#page 44|page 44]])''

::::::::You have difficulty pointing the heavy laser cannon towards the incoming hovercraft as it speeds towards you. Then, a flash of sapphire-blue laser light shoots out of your weapon, melting the front portion of the hovercraft. The hovercraft’s motor cuts, the vehicle spins out of control, and hits a tree-trunk, sending its occupants flying out. '''[[#page 47|page 47]]'''

{{anchor|page 38}}
::::::::;Page 38
::::::::''(From [[#page 24|page 24]])''

::::::::'''''Since you do not know who is in the incoming vehicle, you decide to stay out of sight.'''''
::::::::Running on, you find a crumbling stone doorway half-sunk in the swamp. It is one of Nebulos’s ancient ruins. You look over your shoulder and see that the hovercraft is still headed in your direction. You could hide in the ruins, but the darkness beyond the doorway has an ominous feel to it…

::::::::'''''Hide in the ruins?'' [[#page 52|page 52]]'''

::::::::'''''Decide against entering the ancient stone structure?'' [[#page 60|page 60]]'''

{{anchor|page 52}}
:::::::::;Page 52
:::::::::''(From [[#page 38|page 38]])''

:::::::::'''''You step into the ruins to hide.'''''
:::::::::The inside of the ancient structure has a gloomy ambience to it, which sets your nerves on edge. The hovercraft speeds past the ruins’ entrance. You catch a brief glimpse of its occupants; a nobleman and his bodyguard. Once the noise of the hovercraft’s engine fades away, you notice another sound; a ghostly wailing echoing out from somewhere within the ruins.

:::::::::'''''Investigate the noise?'' [[#page 66|page 66]]'''

:::::::::'''''Exit the ruins immediately?'' [[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 66}}
::::::::::;Page 66
::::::::::''(From [[#page 52|page 52]])''

::::::::::'''''You investigate the ghostly wailing.'''''
::::::::::Driven on by curiosity, you step deeper into the ancient tunnel before you. After what seems like an eternity, you emerge from the tunnel into a large underground chamber. A grey-blue light shines through cracks in the walls before you, and the moaning sound has become louder.

::::::::::'''''Return to the entrance and continue exploring the swamp?'' [[#page 3|page 3]]'''

::::::::::'''''If you have the radio, do you call Highbrow?'' [[#page 11|page 11]]'''

::::::::::'''''Press forwards into the ruins?'' [[#page 19|page 19]]'''

{{anchor|page 3}}
:::::::::::;Page 3
:::::::::::''(From [[#page 11|page 11]] or [[#page 26|page 26]] or [[#page 34|page 34]] or [[#page 51|page 51]] or [[#page 52|page 52]] or [[#page 66|page 66]])''

:::::::::::'''''You head out of the ruins and continue to explore the swamp.'''''
:::::::::::Trudging through the marshy terrain, you eventually begin to see lights shining through the trees. You signal up to Highbrow and move to investigate. In a clearing before you is a city of purple and green metal. No-one seems to be around.

:::::::::::'''''Enter the city?'' [[#page 41|page 41]]'''

:::::::::::'''''Ask Highbrow to join you?'' [[#page 48|page 48]]'''

{{anchor|page 41}}
::::::::::::;Page 41
::::::::::::''(From [[#page 3|page 3]])''

::::::::::::'''''You enter the city.'''''
::::::::::::Did Highbrow give you the Transformer detector?

::::::::::::'''''Yes.'' [[#page 55|page 55]]'''

::::::::::::'''''No.'' [[#page 63|page 63]]'''

{{anchor|page 55}}
:::::::::::::;Page 55
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 41|page 41]])''

:::::::::::::'''''The Transformer detector alerts you of a nearby Decepticon.'''''
:::::::::::::It’s the city itself! You decide against continuing inside of the city, and signal to Highbrow. He comes down to join you. '''[[#page 48|page 48]]'''

{{anchor|page 48}}
:::::::::::::;Page 48
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 3|page 3]] or [[#page 6|page 6]] or [[#page 40|page 40]] or [[#page 55|page 55]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You watch the city from the cover of a fern thicket.'''''
:::::::::::::Minutes later, you see two robots lumber into the clearing. Each of the robots is accompanied by a Nebulan, with a third Nebulan leading the group. Highbrow informs you of their identity; the leader is Lord Zarak, the robots are Decepticons called Snapdragon and Skullcruncher. Snapdragon is accompanied by Krunk, and Skullcruncher is accompanied by the industrialist, Grax. If Grax is involved, Hightower continues, it must signify that they are after the nearby [[oil]]. Highbrow then comes to a snap decision, and rushes out into the clearing. '''[[#page 5|page 5]]'''

{{anchor|page 63}}
:::::::::::::;Page 63
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 41|page 41]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You rush into the city.'''''
:::::::::::::You step into a control room, and begin to look for clues to the Decepticons’ plan. When you accidentally brush against a bank of switches, an overhead screen lights up. On it are the words "Transform Sequence - Manual Override." Under the screen, you notice a red button with a safety over-lock.

:::::::::::::'''''Press the button?'' [[#page 13|page 13]]'''

:::::::::::::'''''If you have the radio transmitter, do you decide to contact Highbrow first?'' [[#page 69|page 69]]'''

:::::::::::::'''''If you have the circuit jammer, do you wish to use it now?'' [[#page 37|page 37]]'''

:::::::::::::'''''Leave the city immediately instead?'' [[#page 6|page 6]]'''

{{anchor|page 13}}
::::::::::::::;Page 13
::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 63|page 63]])''

::::::::::::::'''''You press the red button.'''''
::::::::::::::The onscreen message begins to flash as a siren begins to wail. You decide to run towards the exit as the city begins to quake, only for a steel door to close before you. It turns out that the city itself is the giant Decepticon Scorponok, and the button you just pressed has initiated his transformation to robot mode. You are now trapped, and about to be crushed between shifting joints and gears as Scorponok assumes his robot form.

::::::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 69}}
::::::::::::::;Page 69
::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 63|page 63]])''

::::::::::::::'''''You use the radio transmitter to contact Highbrow.'''''
::::::::::::::You ask your Autobot friend whether or not you should initiate the transformation sequence. Highbrow warns you against doing so, explaining you are within the giant Decepticon Scorponok. He tells you to get out before his voice trails off to static. Having heard enough to know it is unwise to stay put, you head back for the city’s main ramp. '''[[#page 6|page 6]]'''

{{anchor|page 6}}
::::::::::::::;Page 6
::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 63|page 63]] or [[#page 69|page 69]])''

::::::::::::::You find Highbrow waiting for you outside the city. He tells you that you need not search for the Decepticons any further, as they will soon come to this location. The both of you hide in nearby bushes. '''[[#page 48|page 48]]'''

{{anchor|page 37}}
::::::::::::::;Page 37
::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 63|page 63]])''

::::::::::::::'''''You place the circuit jammer under a control panel.'''''
::::::::::::::You suspect that this "city" is in fact the giant Decepticon Scorponok. If that is the case, the jammer will prevent him from taking part in any battle you and Highbrow might have to fight. You head out of the city to meet up with Highbrow, only to find him surrounded by Snapdragon, Skullcruncher, and their Nebulan companions. Do you have the magnetic pistol from the ancient ruins?

::::::::::::::'''''Yes.'' [[#page 58|page 58]]'''

::::::::::::::'''''No.'' [[#page 21|page 21]]'''

{{anchor|page 21}}
:::::::::::::::;Page 21
:::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 37|page 37]])''

:::::::::::::::Snapdragon takes to the air, and Skullcruncher begins to taunt Highbrow. He notes that if Highbrow takes flight, Snapdragon’s gyro-guns will send him tumbling down, and if he stays ground-bound, he will fall victim to Skullcruncher’s own metal-softening rays.

:::::::::::::::'''''Shout at Highbrow to shoot at Snapdragon?'' [[#page 28|page 28]]'''

:::::::::::::::'''''Tell him to shoot Skullcruncher instead?'' [[#page 14|page 14]]'''

{{anchor|page 28}}
[[File:Swamp of the Scorpion Snapdragon.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb]]
::::::::::::::::;Page 28
::::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 21|page 21]])''

::::::::::::::::'''''You tell Highbrow to shoot at Snapdragon.'''''
::::::::::::::::He complies, and sprays Snapdragon with acid. The Decepticon screeches down and crashes into the undergrowth. Highbrow then turns to strike Skullcruncher next, but the crocodilian Decepticon bathes the Autobot in his metal-softening rays. Skullcruncher then begins to encroach towards Highbrow, telling him he will make a nice chewy meal. You don’t get a chance to help Highbrow, as Snapdragon is behind you, having returned to his robot form after crash-landing. He is scarred by his acid bath, and covered in mud, but still plenty capable of destroying you. As he stoops down to seize you, you realize this is…

::::::::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 14}}
::::::::::::::::;Page 14
::::::::::::::::''(From [[#page 21|page 21]])''

::::::::::::::::'''''You tell Highbrow to shoot at Skullcruncher.'''''
::::::::::::::::Highbrow aims his rifle slightly wide, and waits until Skullcruncher deploys his metal-softening rays to fire. Skullcruncher easily dodges Highbrow’s shot, but in the process his beam lands upon Snapdragon instead of its intended target. His wings and fuselage weakened by Skullcruncher’s beam, Snapdragon plummets down and crashes. Highbrow then sends twin jets of scorching acid into Skullcruncher’s face, causing the Decepticon to buckle and curl up in pain. The battle is won. '''[[#page 72|page 72]]'''

{{anchor|page 11}}
:::::::::::;Page 11
:::::::::::''(From [[#page 66|page 66]])''

:::::::::::'''''You call Highbrow on the radio.'''''
:::::::::::But the radio gives out nothing but a hum and a crackle of static. You are too far below ground, and will have to explore the ruins on your own.

:::::::::::'''''Press on further into the ruins?'' [[#page 19|page 19]]'''

:::::::::::'''''Return outside?'' [[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 19}}
::::::::::::;Page 19
::::::::::::''(From [[#page 11|page 11]] or [[#page 66|page 66]])''

::::::::::::'''''You continue exploring the ruins.'''''
::::::::::::You walk towards a heavy stone door, which slides open as you approach. You are unsure if it is magic, or ancient machinery that made the door move by itself. The moaning rises in pitch, and suddenly a giant spider scuttles forwards through the doorway. The only way to get through the doorway is to get past the giant spider.

::::::::::::'''''If you have the laser cannon, do you wish to use it now?'' [[#page 26|page 26]]'''

::::::::::::'''''Do you try to dodge past the spider into the next room?'' [[#page 51|page 51]]'''

::::::::::::'''''Do you return to the exit?'' [[#page 34|page 34]]'''

{{anchor|page 26}}
:::::::::::::;Page 26
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 19|page 19]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You use the laser cannon against the giant spider.'''''
:::::::::::::Oddly, the laser passes straight through the spider, as though it wasn’t there. A muffled explosion resounds from the room beyond, and the spider disappears. Looking into the next room, you find the burnt-out projector that was projecting the hologram of the spider. The wailing you heard earlier has also stopped, as it was the high-pitched whine of the projector’s power supply. Searching the room, you find a strange pistol that emits a beam of soft white light. Testing it out on scraps of rusted machinery laying about, you discover that this is a magnetic pistol, with the power to magnetize any piece of metal touched by its beam. The magnetic charge it creates is so strong that not even the mighty Autobot [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] could hope to part metal magnetized by this weapon. You pocket the pistol and rush back outside to continue your exploration of the swamp. '''[[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 51}}
:::::::::::::;Page 51
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 19|page 19]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You try to dodge past the spider into the next room.'''''
:::::::::::::To your horror, you slip and tumble directly towards the spider’s glistening mandibles! But when you find yourself on the floor, the spider is nowhere to be seen. You look up and see an image projector set into the far wall. You can clearly see its beam shoot out through the air, and project the holographic image of the spider in the doorway. You further discover that the wailing sound you heard earlier is the high-pitched whine of the projector’s power supply. You search the room and eventually come across an odd pistol. Instead of firing projectiles, it produces a beam of soft white light. Sweeping the beam across the room, you discover its unique property. Whenever the beam touches a piece of metal, it magnetizes it. The charge of the pieces of metal magnetized this way is so great that even the renowned strength of the [[Horrorcon (G1)|Horrorcon]] [[Apeface]] would not be enough to pry them apart. You pocket the pistol and return outside to continue searching the swamp. '''[[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 34}}
:::::::::::::;Page 34
:::::::::::::''(From [[#page 19|page 19]])''

:::::::::::::'''''You decide to avoid the spider altogether and return to the exit.'''''
:::::::::::::Racing back through the tunnel, you soon emerge into the cool night air. '''[[#page 3|page 3]]'''

{{anchor|page 60}}
:::::::::;Page 60
:::::::::''(From [[#page 38|page 38]])''

:::::::::'''''You remain outside the ruins.'''''
:::::::::You hide nearby in the swamp instead. The hovercraft soon glides into view. Within it are two Nebulans; a tall imperious-looking figure, and his burly, battle-scarred henchman. The grander one orders his subordinate to pause, while they let Highbrow pass overhead. Highbrow is searching the swamp with his searchlight, but fails to spot the hover-car. The grander figure, "Lord Zarak," then orders his henchman to drive towards the "Scorpion Base." When the henchman turns on the vehicle’s, he inadvertently illuminates your hiding spot, bringing you into clear view! '''[[#page 10|page 10]]'''

{{anchor|page 10}}
:::::::::;Page 10
:::::::::''(From [[#page 60|page 60]])''

:::::::::Immediately assuming you are a spy for the Autobots, Zarak orders "Krunk" to deal with you. Krunk throws the hover-car’s joystick forward, veering in your direction. He is going to run you down!

:::::::::'''''Try to dodge aside?'' [[#page 18|page 18]]'''

:::::::::'''''Try throwing yourself flat just before the collision?'' [[#page 25|page 25]]'''

:::::::::'''''If you have the laser cannon, do you wish to use it now?'' [[#page 32|page 32]]'''

{{anchor|page 18}}
::::::::::;Page 18
::::::::::''(From [[#page 10|page 10]] or [[#page 46|page 46]])''

::::::::::'''''You try to dodge the incoming hover-car'''''
::::::::::But you do not move quickly enough! Krunk only needs to nudge the hover-car’s joystick to have you in his sights once more. And you do not have the time to dodge aside on his second pass. As the hover-car’s headlights blind you, your adventure has come to...

::::::::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 25}}
::::::::::;Page 25
::::::::::''(From [[#page 10|page 10]] or [[#page 46|page 46]])''

::::::::::'''''You throw yourself flat just before the hovercraft collides with you.'''''
::::::::::You feel the hovercraft passing over you with a painful jolt. Thankfully, you will have no more than a few bruises for the incident. Krunk and Zarak stop and glance back in your direction. You remain still in the swamp’s muddy water. Zarak congratulates Krunk on killing you, but threatens his goon that any damage done to the vehicle’s paintwork will come out of his pay. They hear Highbrow returning, and quickly depart. Once Zarak and Krunk have fled the scene, you get back up and wave down Highbrow. Seeing what condition you are in, Highbrow transforms and lands next to you. You tell Highbrow what happened. Highbrow tells you that the two criminals you encountered are Lord Zarak, leader of the evil Nebulans, and his bodyguard Krunk. He then decides that the two of you would be better off if you stuck together. '''[[#page 17|page 17]]'''

{{anchor|page 17}}
::::::::::;Page 17
::::::::::''(From [[#page 9|page 9]] or [[#page 25|page 25]] or [[#page 70|page 70]])''

::::::::::'''''The two of you agree to proceed together on foot.'''''
::::::::::Highbrow doesn’t think the two of you will make much headway, as he has to walk slowly in order to avoid pockets of quicksand. Nonetheless, the two of you prefer to play it safe in case you are attacked by Decepticons. '''[[#page 40|page 40]]'''

{{anchor|page 40}}
::::::::::;Page 40
::::::::::''(From [[#page 17|page 17]])''

::::::::::You soon come to a futuristic city made out of purple and green metal inside of a clearing. Pipes are running out of the city and into the ground, as though someone is planning on drilling for oil. Though the city appears as though it is a veritable fortress, no one is manning it currently. Highbrow suggest the two of you wait in hiding until the Decepticons turn up. '''[[#page 48|page 48]]'''

{{anchor|page 9}}
:::::::;Page 9
:::::::''(From [[#page 70|page 70]])''

:::::::'''''You climb into Highbrow’s helicopter cockpit, and take to the air.'''''
:::::::Highbrow turns on a spotlight on his undercarriage so that you can both see better into the swamp as the sun’s light begins to fade. But because of the "organ-metallic" nature of Nebulos’s bioforms, Highbrow’s scanning systems won’t be able to penetrate the canopy bellow. You have difficulty spotting anything from this height yourself. You conclude that one or both of you will have to continue on foot to explore the area properly.

:::::::'''''Should Highbrow set you down and proceed in the air by himself?'' [[#page 24|page 24]]'''

:::::::'''''Should the both of you land and continue your search together?'' [[#page 17|page 17]]'''

{{anchor|page 43}}
::::::;Page 43
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]])''

::::::'''''You take the Transformer detector.'''''
::::::The device consists of several gold hoops. You take it and coil it over your shoulder. Highbrow points out a panel attached to the junction between two hoops. At the moment, the panel reads: "Autobot: HIGHBROW." Highbrow the panel will change accordingly if any other Transformer come into range. '''[[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 57}}
::::::;Page 57
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]])''

::::::'''''You take the electronic circuit jammer.'''''
::::::The device consists of three large steel globes joined by crystalline rods. Highbrow tells you the jammer contains a magnetic limpet that will adhere to the armour of a Transformer. Once in place, the jammer will prevent a Transformer from assuming another mode. He tells you that he once used it against the Decepticon [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] to prevent him from taking flight and battling both himself and Brainstorm. '''[[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 65}}
::::::;Page 65
::::::''(From [[#page 8|page 8]])''

::::::'''''You take the laser cannon.'''''
::::::It is about the size of a bazooka. Highbrow explains that Transformers usually power their weapons off of atomic batteries built into their bodies. This laser cannon has an internal power supply, which is what makes it so heavy. Although the cannon might not be powerful enough to take out any Decepticon, it should buy you some time if you encounter one. '''[[#page 70|page 70]]'''

{{anchor|page 16}}
:::::;Page 16
:::::''(From [[#page 64|page 64]])''

:::::'''''You ask Highbrow how he came to be stuck in the quicksand.'''''
:::::Highbrow is embarrassed to admit that he simply lost his balance while he was flying and hit the mud. He admits he was lucky that you came along, and asks once more for your help.

:::::'''''Agree to help Highbrow in any way you can?'' [[#page 8|page 8]]'''

:::::'''''Refuse to help Highbrow any more?'' [[#page 30|page 30]]'''

{{anchor|page 30}}
::::::;Page 30
::::::''(From [[#page 16|page 16]] or [[#page 22|page 22]])''

::::::'''''You refuse to help Highbrow.'''''
::::::You apologize to him, but admit that you don’t think you’d be much help in any case. Highbrow says that you might have been more help than you’d imagine as he begins to lift off. He claims that it is not only strength that wins a battle, and that very few people are without fear. But if one has courage, they can overcome fear, and everything else. You wave goodbye as Highbrow flies away, still convinced that you would not have been much help on his mission. '''[[#page 46|page 46]]'''

{{anchor|page 46}}
::::::;Page 46
::::::''(From [[#page 30|page 30]])''

::::::As you try to make your way back towards the oil rig, you find yourself lost in the swamp. You hear Highbrow flying overhead, continuing his search for the Decepticons. Then, you spot two figures in a hover-car, hiding from Highbrow as he passes overhead. The two Nebulans, calling each other "Krunk" and "Lord Zarak" decide that you are an Autobot spot, and steer their vehicle in your direction. They mean to run you down!

::::::'''''Try to dodge aside?'' [[#page 18|page 18]]'''

::::::'''''Throw yourself flat?'' [[#page 25|page 25]]'''

{{anchor|page 22}}
:::::;Page 22
:::::''(From [[#page 64|page 64]])''

:::::'''''You ask Highbrow what he is doing here.'''''
:::::Highbrow tells you that the Decepticons are after the oil that lies beneath the surrounding jungle. Lord Zarak, leader of the Nebulan collaborators, has ordered them to obtain it. Unlike the Nebulan’s drilling rigs, Decepticon technology has no regard for nature, and will destroy the entire jungle if need be. They are also likely to destroy oil rigs like the one at which you work to prevent the Autobots from obtaining any oil themselves. The situation certainly sounds dire, and you realize that many of your friends that work at the oil rig could be killed if Zarak’s plan is carried out.

:::::'''''Agree to help Highbrow?'' [[#page 8|page 8]]'''

:::::'''''Refuse to help Highbrow?'' [[#page 30|page 30]]'''

{{anchor|page 56}}
::::;Page 56
::::''(From [[#page 36|page 36]])''

::::'''''You push a log towards Highbrow so he can haul himself free.'''''
::::You steer your hover-cull around the edge of the clearing to find a suitable log. You settle on one that is both sturdy and light enough for you to shift. But when you return to Highbrow, you find that he has already sunk beneath the quicksand. Maybe other Autobots will come to rescue him, but your part in this adventure is over.

::::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 49}}
:::;Page 49
:::''(From [[#page 15|page 15]])''

:::'''''You try pushing a log to Highbrow so he can haul himself free.'''''
:::You find one that is both sturdy enough for Highbrow to haul himself out, and light enough for you to bring it over to him. You haul one end to him, then anchor the other end by landing the hover-scull onto it. Highbrow begins to free himself from the mire, but the log then slips from under the scull. You are alarmed by this development, but now that Highbrow has his arms free, he is able to deploy his rotor blades, and lift himself out of the mud. '''[[#page 64|page 64]]'''

{{anchor|page 23}}
[[File:Swamp of the Scorpion Nebulans.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1]]
::;Page 23
::''(From [[#page 7|page 7]])''

::'''''You attempt to find others who will help you rescue Highbrow.'''''
::You find a few senior technicians and oilmen playing cards in the rig’s lounge area. But they are so enraptured in their game that they pay you no heed.

::'''''Go rescue Highbrow on your own?'' [[#page 15|page 15]]'''

::'''''Keep badgering your coworkers until they come?'' [[#page 29|page 29]]'''

{{anchor|page 29}}
:::;Page 29
:::''(From [[#page 23|page 23]])''

:::'''''You keep badgering your coworkers.'''''
:::They finally give in, and agree to come along with you to rescue the Autobot in distress. But by the time you arrive at Highbrow’s last coordinates, there is no sign of him. You do not know whether Highbrow sank to the bottom of the quicksand pit, or if he managed to escape on his own. In either case, this is the end of your adventure.

:::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 35}}
:;Page 35
:''(From [[#page 1|page 1]])''

:'''''You ignore the incoming message.'''''
:As you head towards the recreation lounge, a supervisor stops you. He tells you that your coworker, [[Klab]] had to go home sick. He then assigns you to take over his post in the monitoring room. You begrudgingly return to the monitoring room and sit down with a book. Yawning, you wonder what’s the point of security on an oil rig. '''[[#page 39|page 39]]'''

{{anchor|page 39}}
:;Page 39
:''(From [[#page 35|page 35]])''

:You suddenly bolt upright, having fallen asleep while on monitor duty. Looking over the screen before you, you notice that in the supply room are two figures rifling through the stores.

:'''''Alert your coworkers?'' [[#page 53|page 53]]'''

:'''''Go down to the supply room yourself?'' [[#page 61|page 61]]'''

{{anchor|page 53}}
:;Page 53
::''(From [[#page 39|page 39]])''

::'''''You alert the rest of the oil rig.'''''
::But by the time anyone can scramble to stop them, the intruders have left the premises. The Chief Engineer inspects supply room, and finds that all of the [[trilithium power crystal]]s have been stolen. This will hold up drilling by a month. Although the Chief Engineer considers reprimanding you for falling asleep on the job, he admits that at least you did well to raise the alarm as quickly as you did. Although you are spared disciplinary actions, you have also missed out on a great adventure.

::'''THE END'''

{{anchor|page 61}}
::;Page 61
::''(From [[#page 39|page 39]])''

::'''''You go down to the supply room yourself, pausing only to grab a flashlight.'''''
::Looking through the store room, you find that several crates have gone missing. You sweep your flashlight about the marshlands outside, only for its light to be blotted out by the thick mist that has settled. Then you hear nearing throb of helicopter rotors. You watch as the vehicle drops to hover beside the rig, scanning the marsh with its searchlight. Guessing the helicopter is also looking for the figures who broke into the supply room, you attract its attention by waving your arms. As the helicopter looms nearer, you notice that there is no pilot in the cockpit. '''[[#page 67|page 67]]'''

{{anchor|page 67}}
::;Page 67
::''(From [[#page 61|page 61]])''

::The helicopter lands and transforms into a robot. The robot introduces himself as Highbrow, the electronics and surveillance expert among the Headmaster Autobots. He tells you he knows that a theft has taken place at your oil rig. He had sent out a message earlier, warning that such a thing might happen, but it was not answered. He then arrived on scene too late to apprehend the thieves. Checking the stores, you take note that three crates of expensive trilithium crystals are missing. You realize that you will be in a lot of trouble when your superiors find out you were sleeping while on monitor duty. Highbrow suggests that you should come along with him, and help him recover the stolen crystals, before anyone notices they have gone missing.

::'''''Agree to go along with Highbrow?'' [[#page 8|page 8]]'''

::'''''Tell Highbrow that you should stay behind?'' [[#page 4|page 4]]'''

{{anchor|page 4}}
:::;Page 4
:::''(From [[#page 67|page 67]])''

:::'''''You tell Highbrow that you should stay behind.'''''
:::You explain that although you will be disciplined for allowing the crystals to be stolen, the consequences might be worse if you also abandon your post. You watch Highbrow lumber off into the marsh. You can only wish him luck, as you are sure he must be outnumbered by the evil Decepticons waiting for him in the night.

:::'''THE END'''

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]]

|c2=
*[[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]]
*[[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]]
*[[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]

|h4=[[Nebulan]]s|c4=
*[[You]]
*[[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]]
*[[Krunk]]
*[[Grax]]

|nonumbering=true
}}

==Notes==
*All Transformers' names are printed in [[To sell toys|CAPITAL LETTERS]].
*On [[#page 48|page 48]], you make a reference to the story of Jonah and the whale. Who knew Nebulans were versed in biblical literature?
*Whatever path you choose, you never recover the stolen crystals (if any crystals are stolen at all).
*In all depictions of Highbrow, the highly toy-accurate illustration always show him with flip-down panel of his chest opened, showing off his Tech Spec readouts.
*All Nebulans are depicted as being robotic, or as Highbrow describes Neulons's organisms, "organ-metallic."
*The words "jungle" and "swamp" are used interchangeably throughout the whole book. Maybe on Nebulon they're the same thing?
*The one time Gort's name is mentioned in the book, it is spelt "Grot".
*The Autobots [[Brainstorm (G1)|Brainstorm]] and [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], the Decepticons [[Apeface]] and [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]], and the Nebulans [[Gort|Grot]], [[Arcana]], and [[Klab]] are all mentioned, but do not make an appearance.

===Advertisements===
* At the end of the story are adverts for other Young Corgi book "[[Desert of Danger]]," by Terrance Dicks.

[[Category:Generation 1 multipath adventures]]