MediaWiki - User contributions [en]

Cliffjumper (Yolopark)

2025-03-18T02:42:23Z

Warpshard: Ladybugs in the US are ladybirds in the UK so this disambiguation could help

{{disambig2|the Botcon exclusive character|the British publishing company|Ladybird Books}}
{{factions|decepticon}}
:''Ladybug is a [[Decepticon]] from the [[Generation 1 continuity family]].''

[[File:Botcon Ladybug PackageArt.jpg|right|thumb|250px|]]

'''Ladybug''' is a red Volkswagen Beetle. You wanted a red one, right?

==Merchandise==
===Yolopark===
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-d1|'''Ladybug''' (AMK Mini Series, 2025)}}</ul>
:*''Accessories'': 2 additional pairs of hands (Splayed, Pointing), gun

:Released exclusively for the [[Unofficial conventions|unofficial]] Agabyss-organized [[BotCon]] 2025 convention, the [[Yolopark]] ''AMK Mini Series'' kit of Ladybug is a [[redeco]] and [[retool]] of the same line's [[Bumblebee (G1)/merchandise#AMK Mini Series|Bumblebee]] with a new [[Show-accuracy|toy-accurate]] headsculpt, and can be only completed by snapping the pre-painted pieces together. Aside from the identical hand parts used for most of the ''AMK Mini'' figures, Ladybug also comes with her gun.

==Notes==
*Ladybug is based on the red variant of the [[1983]] ''[[Micro Change]]'' MC-04 Mini Car Robo 03 Volkswagen, whose yellow variant became [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys#The Transformers|Bumblebee]]. This variation was previously made into a [[2015]] ''[[The Transformers: Masterpiece|Masterpiece]]'' toy, but as "[[Bumblebee (G1)/toys#MP21R|Bumble Red Body]]".
*Beyond {{w|Coccinellidae|ladybugs}} being red beetles, "Ladybug" is the translation of ''Coccinelle'', the French name of the {{W|Volkswagen Beetle}}.

[[Category:Generation 1 Decepticons]]
[[Category:Female Transformers]]

Cliffjumper (Yolopark)

2025-03-18T02:35:45Z

Warpshard: Made main photo slightly smaller

{{factions|decepticon}}
:''Ladybug is a [[Decepticon]] from the [[Generation 1 continuity family]].''

[[File:Botcon Ladybug PackageArt.jpg|right|thumb|250px|]]

'''Ladybug''' is a red Volkswagen Beetle. You wanted a red one, right?

==Merchandise==
===Yolopark===
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-d1|'''Ladybug''' (AMK Mini Series, 2025)}}</ul>
:*''Accessories'': 2 additional pairs of hands (Splayed, Pointing), gun

:Released exclusively for the [[Unofficial conventions|unofficial]] Agabyss-organized [[BotCon]] 2025 convention, the [[Yolopark]] ''AMK Mini Series'' kit of Ladybug is a [[redeco]] and [[retool]] of the same line's [[Bumblebee (G1)/merchandise#AMK Mini Series|Bumblebee]] with a new [[Show-accuracy|toy-accurate]] headsculpt, and can be only completed by snapping the pre-painted pieces together. Aside from the identical hand parts used for most of the ''AMK Mini'' figures, Ladybug also comes with her gun.

==Notes==
*Ladybug is based on the red variant of the [[1983]] ''[[Micro Change]]'' MC-04 Mini Car Robo 03 Volkswagen, whose yellow variant became [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys#The Transformers|Bumblebee]]. This variation was previously made into a [[2015]] ''[[The Transformers: Masterpiece|Masterpiece]]'' toy, but as "[[Bumblebee (G1)/toys#MP21R|Bumble Red Body]]".
*Beyond {{w|Coccinellidae|ladybugs}} being red beetles, "Ladybug" is the translation of ''Coccinelle'', the French name of the {{W|Volkswagen Beetle}}.

[[Category:Generation 1 Decepticons]]
[[Category:Female Transformers]]

Cliffjumper (Yolopark)

2025-03-18T02:33:09Z

Warpshard: Added main photo

{{factions|decepticon}}
:''Ladybug is a [[Decepticon]] from the [[Generation 1 continuity family]].''

[[File:Botcon Ladybug PackageArt.jpg|right|thumb|300px|]]

'''Ladybug''' is a red Volkswagen Beetle. You wanted a red one, right?

==Merchandise==
===Yolopark===
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-d1|'''Ladybug''' (AMK Mini Series, 2025)}}</ul>
:*''Accessories'': 2 additional pairs of hands (Splayed, Pointing), gun

:Released exclusively for the [[Unofficial conventions|unofficial]] Agabyss-organized [[BotCon]] 2025 convention, the [[Yolopark]] ''AMK Mini Series'' kit of Ladybug is a [[redeco]] and [[retool]] of the same line's [[Bumblebee (G1)/merchandise#AMK Mini Series|Bumblebee]] with a new [[Show-accuracy|toy-accurate]] headsculpt, and can be only completed by snapping the pre-painted pieces together. Aside from the identical hand parts used for most of the ''AMK Mini'' figures, Ladybug also comes with her gun.

==Notes==
*Ladybug is based on the red variant of the [[1983]] ''[[Micro Change]]'' MC-04 Mini Car Robo 03 Volkswagen, whose yellow variant became [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys#The Transformers|Bumblebee]]. This variation was previously made into a [[2015]] ''[[The Transformers: Masterpiece|Masterpiece]]'' toy, but as "[[Bumblebee (G1)/toys#MP21R|Bumble Red Body]]".
*Beyond {{w|Coccinellidae|ladybugs}} being red beetles, "Ladybug" is the translation of ''Coccinelle'', the French name of the {{W|Volkswagen Beetle}}.

[[Category:Generation 1 Decepticons]]
[[Category:Female Transformers]]

File:Botcon Ladybug PackageArt.jpg

2025-03-18T02:30:18Z

Warpshard: Package art for Botcon 2025 exclusive Ladybug {{art |art=Lantana_Ice (Twitter handle) }} {{packagingart}} Category:Packaging art images

[[Package art]] for Botcon 2025 exclusive [[Ladybug]]
{{art
|art=[[Lantana_Ice (Twitter handle)]]
}}

{{packagingart}}

[[Category:Packaging art images]]

Lenses

2025-03-02T05:44:01Z

Warpshard: /* Age of the Primes */ Minor wording changes

{{factions|{{factions/icons|custom=PotP-AlchemistPrime.png|cSize=30px|cLink=Alchemist Prime|cPretty=Alchemist Prime}}}}
{{disambig2|the [[Artifacts of the Primes|holy relic]]|the Mini-Con|Lens}}
In times long past, [[Alchemist Prime]] wielded the '''Lenses'''. Permanently affixed into his [[Sensor|optics]], they allowed him to see farther than any other living thing, both literally and spiritually. Through the Lenses, Alchemist could perceive the various visible and invisible cycles of the universe.

==Fiction==
===''The Covenant of Primus''===
[[Alpha Trion (WFC)|Alpha Trion]] noted that the Lenses let Alchemist Prime see another side to any story or problem. {{Storylink|Transformers: The Covenant of Primus|The Covenant of Primus}}

===2019 IDW continuity===
The Lenses were one of the fourteen [[Artifacts of the Primes]]. {{storylink|Light/Star}}

==Toys==
===''Age of the Primes''===
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-pr6|'''Alchemist Prime''' (Deluxe Class, [[2025]])}}</ul>
[[File:AOTP Lenses.jpg|right|thumb|300px|]]
Part of the second wave of ''[[Age of the Primes]]'', the Lenses are included with Deluxe Class [[Alchemist Prime#Age of the Primes| Alchemist Prime]]. Two separate pieces, the Lenses can attach to Alchemist's forearms, be held as handheld axes, stored on the top of Alchemist Prime's vehicle mode, or combined to be held by any figure with 5mm hands. The Lenses feature a variety of insignias, displaying the [[Ancient Robot|Ancient Autobot]] insignia, Alchemist Prime's insignia, and [[Unicron|Unicron's]] insignia.
{{comingsoontoy}}
{{--}}

[[Category:Artifacts of the Primes]]

Lenses

2025-03-02T05:40:13Z

Warpshard: /* Age of the Primes */

{{factions|{{factions/icons|custom=PotP-AlchemistPrime.png|cSize=30px|cLink=Alchemist Prime|cPretty=Alchemist Prime}}}}
{{disambig2|the [[Artifacts of the Primes|holy relic]]|the Mini-Con|Lens}}
In times long past, [[Alchemist Prime]] wielded the '''Lenses'''. Permanently affixed into his [[Sensor|optics]], they allowed him to see farther than any other living thing, both literally and spiritually. Through the Lenses, Alchemist could perceive the various visible and invisible cycles of the universe.

==Fiction==
===''The Covenant of Primus''===
[[Alpha Trion (WFC)|Alpha Trion]] noted that the Lenses let Alchemist Prime see another side to any story or problem. {{Storylink|Transformers: The Covenant of Primus|The Covenant of Primus}}

===2019 IDW continuity===
The Lenses were one of the fourteen [[Artifacts of the Primes]]. {{storylink|Light/Star}}

==Toys==
===''Age of the Primes''===
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-pr6|'''Alchemist Prime''' (Deluxe Class, [[2025]]}}</ul>
[[File:AOTP Lenses.jpg|right|thumb|300px|]]
Part of the second wave of ''[[Age of the Primes]]'', the Lenses are included with Deluxe Class [[Alchemist Prime#Age of the Primes| Alchemist Prime]]. Two separate pieces, the Lenses can attach to Alchemist's forearms, be held as handheld axes, stored on the top of Alchemist Prime's vehicle mode, or combined to be held by any figure with 5mm hands. The Lenses feature a variety of insignias, displaying the [[Ancient Robot]] insignia, Alchemist Prime's insignia, and [[Unicron|Unicron's]] insignia.
{{comingsoontoy}}
{{--}}

[[Category:Artifacts of the Primes]]

Lenses

2025-03-02T05:39:05Z

Warpshard: /* Age of the Primes */

{{factions|{{factions/icons|custom=PotP-AlchemistPrime.png|cSize=30px|cLink=Alchemist Prime|cPretty=Alchemist Prime}}}}
{{disambig2|the [[Artifacts of the Primes|holy relic]]|the Mini-Con|Lens}}
In times long past, [[Alchemist Prime]] wielded the '''Lenses'''. Permanently affixed into his [[Sensor|optics]], they allowed him to see farther than any other living thing, both literally and spiritually. Through the Lenses, Alchemist could perceive the various visible and invisible cycles of the universe.

==Fiction==
===''The Covenant of Primus''===
[[Alpha Trion (WFC)|Alpha Trion]] noted that the Lenses let Alchemist Prime see another side to any story or problem. {{Storylink|Transformers: The Covenant of Primus|The Covenant of Primus}}

===2019 IDW continuity===
The Lenses were one of the fourteen [[Artifacts of the Primes]]. {{storylink|Light/Star}}

==Toys==
===''Age of the Primes''===
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-pr6|'''Alchemist Prime''' (Deluxe Class, [[2025]]}}</ul>
[[File:AOTP Lenses.jpg|right|thumb|300px|]]
Part of the second wave of ''[[Age of the Primes]]'', the Lenses are included with Deluxe Class [[Alchemist Prime#Age of the Primes| Alchemist Prime]]. Two separate pieces, the Lenses can attach to Alchemist's forearms, be held as handheld axes, or combined to be held by any figure with 5mm hands. The Lenses also feature a variety of insignias, displaying the [[Ancient Robot]] insignia, Alchemist Prime's insignia, and [[Unicron|Unicron's]] insignia.
{{comingsoontoy}}
{{--}}

[[Category:Artifacts of the Primes]]

Lenses

2025-03-02T05:38:33Z

Warpshard: /* Age of the Primes */

{{factions|{{factions/icons|custom=PotP-AlchemistPrime.png|cSize=30px|cLink=Alchemist Prime|cPretty=Alchemist Prime}}}}
{{disambig2|the [[Artifacts of the Primes|holy relic]]|the Mini-Con|Lens}}
In times long past, [[Alchemist Prime]] wielded the '''Lenses'''. Permanently affixed into his [[Sensor|optics]], they allowed him to see farther than any other living thing, both literally and spiritually. Through the Lenses, Alchemist could perceive the various visible and invisible cycles of the universe.

==Fiction==
===''The Covenant of Primus''===
[[Alpha Trion (WFC)|Alpha Trion]] noted that the Lenses let Alchemist Prime see another side to any story or problem. {{Storylink|Transformers: The Covenant of Primus|The Covenant of Primus}}

===2019 IDW continuity===
The Lenses were one of the fourteen [[Artifacts of the Primes]]. {{storylink|Light/Star}}

==Toys==
===''Age of the Primes''===
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-pr6|'''Alchemist Prime''' (Deluxe Class, [[2025]]}}</ul>
[[File:AOTP Lenses.jpg|right|thumb|300px|]]
Part of the second wave of ''[[Age of the Primes]]'', the Lenses are included with Deluxe Class [[Alchemist Prime#Age of the Primes| Alchemist Prime]]. Two separate pieces, the Lenses can attach to Alchemist's forearms, be held as handheld axes, or combined to be held by any figure with 5mm hands. The Lenses also feature a variety of insignias, displaying the [[Ancient Robot]] insignia, Alchemist Prime's insignia, and [[Unicron|Unicron's]] insignia.
{{toystub}}
{{comingsoontoy}}
{{--}}

[[Category:Artifacts of the Primes]]

Lenses

2025-03-02T05:38:21Z

Warpshard: /* Age of the Primes */ Removed specific references to positions of where the insignias are, might make the description too wordy

{{factions|{{factions/icons|custom=PotP-AlchemistPrime.png|cSize=30px|cLink=Alchemist Prime|cPretty=Alchemist Prime}}}}
{{disambig2|the [[Artifacts of the Primes|holy relic]]|the Mini-Con|Lens}}
In times long past, [[Alchemist Prime]] wielded the '''Lenses'''. Permanently affixed into his [[Sensor|optics]], they allowed him to see farther than any other living thing, both literally and spiritually. Through the Lenses, Alchemist could perceive the various visible and invisible cycles of the universe.

==Fiction==
===''The Covenant of Primus''===
[[Alpha Trion (WFC)|Alpha Trion]] noted that the Lenses let Alchemist Prime see another side to any story or problem. {{Storylink|Transformers: The Covenant of Primus|The Covenant of Primus}}

===2019 IDW continuity===
The Lenses were one of the fourteen [[Artifacts of the Primes]]. {{storylink|Light/Star}}

==Toys==
===''Age of the Primes''===
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-pr6|'''Alchemist Prime''' (Deluxe Class, [[2025]]}}</ul>
[[File:AOTP Lenses.jpg|right|thumb|300px|]]
Part of the second wave of ''[[Age of the Primes]]'', the Lenses are included with Deluxe Class [[Alchemist Prime#Age of the Primes| Alchemist Prime]]. Two separate pieces, the Lenses can attach to Alchemist's forearms, be held as handheld axes, or combined to be held by any figure with 5mm hands. The Lenses also feature a variety of insignias, displaying the [[Ancient Robot]] insignia, Alchemist Prime's insignia, and [[Unicron's|Unicron]] insignia.
{{toystub}}
{{comingsoontoy}}
{{--}}

[[Category:Artifacts of the Primes]]

Lenses

2025-03-02T05:36:48Z

Warpshard: Added Toys Section, marked with stub and coming soon markers for now.

{{factions|{{factions/icons|custom=PotP-AlchemistPrime.png|cSize=30px|cLink=Alchemist Prime|cPretty=Alchemist Prime}}}}
{{disambig2|the [[Artifacts of the Primes|holy relic]]|the Mini-Con|Lens}}
In times long past, [[Alchemist Prime]] wielded the '''Lenses'''. Permanently affixed into his [[Sensor|optics]], they allowed him to see farther than any other living thing, both literally and spiritually. Through the Lenses, Alchemist could perceive the various visible and invisible cycles of the universe.

==Fiction==
===''The Covenant of Primus''===
[[Alpha Trion (WFC)|Alpha Trion]] noted that the Lenses let Alchemist Prime see another side to any story or problem. {{Storylink|Transformers: The Covenant of Primus|The Covenant of Primus}}

===2019 IDW continuity===
The Lenses were one of the fourteen [[Artifacts of the Primes]]. {{storylink|Light/Star}}

==Toys==
===''Age of the Primes''===
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-pr6|'''Alchemist Prime''' (Deluxe Class, [[2025]]}}</ul>
[[File:AOTP Lenses.jpg|right|thumb|300px|]]
Part of the second wave of ''[[Age of the Primes]]'', the Lenses are included with Deluxe Class [[Alchemist Prime#Age of the Primes| Alchemist Prime]]. Two separate pieces, the Lenses can attach to Alchemist's forearms, be held as handheld axes, or combined with a tab which can then be held by any figure with 5mm hands. The Lenses also feature a variety of insignias, displaying the [[Ancient Robot]] insignia on the smaller of the lenses on the left part of The Lenses, Alchemist Prime's insignia on larger left lens, and a [[Unicron]] insignia on the smaller right lens.
{{toystub}}
{{comingsoontoy}}
{{--}}

[[Category:Artifacts of the Primes]]

File:AOTP Lenses.jpg

2025-03-02T05:22:49Z

Warpshard: ''Age of the Primes'' Lenses stock photography. {{aotpstock}} Category:Generations Age of the Primes toy stock images

''[[Transformers: Age of the Primes|Age of the Primes]]'' [[Lenses]] stock photography.

{{aotpstock}}

[[Category:Generations Age of the Primes toy stock images]]

Nightbird (G1)

2024-01-22T01:59:17Z

Warpshard: Fixed featured designation being below the disambiguation section.

{{factions|decepticon|mercenary}}
{{featured}}
{{disambig3|Nightbird}}
:''Nightbird is a [[Decepticon]]-allied [[human]]-built robot from the [[Generation 1 continuity family]].''

[[File:Nightbird g1.jpg|thumb|"Dude? A giant robot ninja?" "No dude, a giant robot ninja chick!" "Duuuude!"]]
'''Nightbird''' is a giant female ninja robot built to "benefit [[human|mankind]]".

Yeah, those nunchucks are really gonna be ''benefiting'' their way through society.

==Fiction==
===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====''The Transformers'' cartoon====
Nightbird was a robotic ninja warrior created by [[Doctor Fujiyama the Famous Scientist]], ostensibly to show how advanced [[Human]] technology had become. The [[Decepticon]]s stole Nightbird, and [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]] implanted her with an enhanced brain chip which turned the drone-like Nightbird into a true butt-kicking machine. Nightbird broke into the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] and stole the [[Autobot]]s' [[World Energy Chip]], which contained the locations of a variety of energy sources, energy sources that the Decepticons would most assuredly use for conquest!

The Autobots were, at first, hampered by their promise to Doctor Fujiyama not to damage or destroy the ninja robot, and found themselves flustered in botched attempts to capture her. Eventually, however, they used an [[electro mesh prison]] which drained Nightbird's power reserves and allowed the Autobots to capture her without serious damage. Doctor Fujiyama placed Nightbird into cold storage, and she gave an angry glare as she was stored away. {{storylink|Enter the Nightbird}}

====Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity====
[[File:Train Wars Shadow.jpg|thumb|]]
Circa [[2010]], Nightbird was eventually broken out by [[Shadow]], her "younger brother" who was an AI lackey contained within a storage box attached to her thigh. Using her creator's lab, Nightbird upgraded herself {{Storylink|#Masterpiece|Nightbird Shadow bio}} and then attempted to steal away the three [[Trainbot]]s who still remained inactive. The other nine Trainbots attempted to stop her, with the six prototypes even combining into [[G Liner]]. Nightbird used Shadow's [[cerebro-shell]] functions to take over G Liner's mind, but her efforts were ultimately halted by the three remaining Trainbots. Taken into captivity once again, Nightbird used her ninja tricks to escape this time around. {{storylink|The Train Wars: The Origin}}

[[File:Nightbird Shadow Sequel.jpg|thumb|left|100px]]
Nightbird joined up with the Decepticons under the command of [[Galvatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Galvatron]], as he was the new form of her old master, [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]]. When Galvatron was killed in [[2011]] by the [[Autobot]] [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], Nightbird refused to follow the new Decepticon leader, [[Scorponok (G1)|Megazarak]], and instead set out to improve her ninjutsu. Travelling to the [[Six Clan]]'s hidden village on their planet, Nightbird and Shadow met with the Clan's leader, who inducted the two into the group as "Nightbird Shadow". Nightbird trained hard, managing to attain flying squirrel and swan modes, but before she could attain two more alternate modes and become a true [[Six Changer]], she heard in the 2030s that Galvatron had returned as Super Megatron. She left to rejoin the Decepticons on [[Chaar]], bringing along two disciples, [[Road Rocket (G2)|Road Rocket]] and [[Road Pig (G2)|Road Pig]], but not before receiving orders to put down the wayward member of the Six Clan, [[Sixshot (G1)|Sixshot]]. {{Storylink|#Masterpiece|Nightbird Shadow bio}} [[Road Pig (G2)|Road Pig]] and [[Road Rocket (G2)|Road Rocket]] would eventually develop a rivalry over Nightbird. {{Storylink|LG-15 Nightbird Shadow Sequel}}

In one of the [[Legends World]]'s [[Tigatron]]'s dreams, Nightbird was among the evil female Transformers (and related robots, evidently) who sought to kidnap him and fought the heroic female Transformers guarding him. [[Arcee (WFC)|Arcee]] was in Nightbird's line of sight shortly before the dream ended due to Tigatron waking up. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 11|Bonus Edition Vol. 11}} [[Alpha Trion (G1)|Alpha Trion]] later saw Nightbird, [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]], and [[Slipstream (Animated)|Slipstream]] in a vision of things to come. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 14|Bonus Edition Vol. 14}}

[[File:Transformers Legends LG15 Nightbirds rampage.jpg|thumb|]]

Megatron brought Nightbird with him to the Legends World, where he presented her to the public as a [[Tera-Kura Co.]] ninja maid robot under the name "Nightbird Shadow". To prevent her from causing any problems, he equipped her a clumsiness function that customers found adorable, leading to Tera-Kura mass-producing and selling Nightbird clones for profit. The clones then immediately went out of control and started rampaging through Tokyo, something Megatron credited to their inherently evil Decepticon souls, but were stopped in their tracks by their own clumsiness. The [[Megatron (BW)|local Megatron]] prepared for a mass recall, but the customers of the Nightbirds protested that the clones' little "mischievous streak" was just charming, and they remained on the market. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 15|Bonus Edition Vol. 15}}

[[File:TFLegendVol17DecepticonHalloweenCostumes.jpg|thumb|left]]
During [[Halloween]], Megatron had Nightbird Shadow go trick-or-treating for energy alongside Blackarachnia and Slipstream. Dressed up as a ghost, she and the others knocked on Tigatron's door before getting accosted by [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]], [[Chromia (G1)|Chromia]], and [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]], who were defeated by Blackarachnia. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 17|Bonus Edition Vol. 17}} Later, when quizzed by [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] about her backstory, Nightbird explained her history with the Six Clan and her students, which Rattrap found hard to believe.

At Tera-Kura, employees became enchanted with Nightbird's cuteness when she took off her mask, prompting the company to begin producing the absurdly popular "Nightbird Maskless Version". {{Storylink|LG-15 Nightbird Shadow Sequel}} Nightbird later swooned over the foreign [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] with the other female Tera-Kura employees, {{Storylink|LG19 Sprung Prologue}} driving Tigatron to envy. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 19|Bonus Edition Vol. 19}} The three later came with Megatron on a hot springs trip, and were thus absent when Tera-Kura Co. was briefly taken over by [[Waspinator (BW)#Cartoon continuity|Waspinator]]. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. EX (Waspinator)|Bonus Edition Waspinator}} Nightbird Shadow and Slipstream were targeted by [[Skids (G1)|Skids]] in his quest to send all the Legends World's interdimensional visitors back to their own universes, prompting Megatron to intervene and seemingly lose his life saving his soldiers. As they crowded around his body, however, they found that Megatron persisted in a tiny new body that Nightbird found cute. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 20|Bonus Edition Vol. 20}}

[[Tarantulas (BW)|Tarantulas]], leader of Tera-Kura Co.'s science department and the one in charge of the Nightbird clone production, allied with the Decepticon [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] near one of the production lines. {{storylink|Headmaster Chapter Prologue}} On a chart showing the employees of the newly formed Decepticon Tera-Kura Co. and their titles, Nightbird Shadow was included as one of the "three office ladies". {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 22|Bonus Edition Vol. 22}} When Megatron turned into [[Galvatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Galvatron]] and went on a rampage in the city, Nightbird Shadow and the other two tried to talk (well, sign language) him out of it, but their calling him "Megatron" only angered Galvatron further and he opened fire on them. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 23|Bonus Edition Vol. 23}} Nightbird was later present for [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]]'s failed attempt at usurping Megatron. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 26|Bonus Edition Vol. 26}}

[[File:Nightbird stabs Sixshot.jpg|thumb|]]
Nightbird's continued time at the office involved getting hypnotized into fawning over [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]], {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 34|Bonus Edition Vol. 34}} getting her dress ripped off by [[Apeface]]'s telekinesis, {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 38|Bonus Edition Vol. 38}} and standing around while Megatron argued with [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]]. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 40|Bonus Edition Vol. 40}} When the Headmasters turned against Tera-Kura Co. and came to steal [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]]'s [[transformation cog]] from them, Nightbird led her clones into battle against the traitorous [[Sweep (G1)|Sweeps]]. {{storylink|LG43 Trypticon Mobilization Chapter: Decepticon Civil War|Decepticon Civil War}} Nightbird saw her chance to fulfil her secret mission from the Six Clan when Sixshot appeared in the Legends World. When the rogue ninja was distracted by his victory over [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ultra Magnus]], she snuck up behind him and impaled him, told him he had broken the Six Clan's laws, and left him to die. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 50|Bonus Edition Vol. 50}}

Nightbird remained at Tera-Kura Co. after Megatron left to become mayor, but remained loyal to him and helped take back the company after it was conquered by the [[Concurrence]]. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 63|Bonus Edition Vol. 63}} With the destruction of the Legends World, Nightbird returned with Megatron to their own universe. {{storylink|The Road to Legends' Revival Chapter 2}} She honored the terms of the [[Cybertron Alliance]], the peace treaty between Autobots and Decepticons negotiated by Optimus and Megatron. At the ceremony, she tried to bring about personal peace between her former protégés, Road Rocket and Road Pig. {{storylink|Transformers Legends Final Chapter "Epiloge"|Epiloge}}

Feeling a kinship with them, {{Storylink|#Masterpiece|Nightbird Shadow bio}} Nightbird brought the [[Selector]]s before [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] in [[2050]], allowing [[Rung (G1)|Rung]] to make his plea for the Decepticon to assist them in revolution against their creators, the [[human]]s. {{storylink|Volcanicus comic 1}}
{{--}}

===3H comics===
[[File:Departure Nightbird army.jpg|upright=2.5|left|thumb|Bombshell would be [[Insecticon clone|so proud]].]]
In 2025 or so, Fujiyama, apparently having learned ''nothing'', built an entire army of Nightbird drones. When they went on a rampage, [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]], [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]], and [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] came to the doctor's aid. Though they were rather outnumbered, the group held off the drones long enough for [[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Spot]] to arrive with help and an evacuation shuttle. This was only just too late for Wheelie, who found his back slashed open by a Nightbird drone, disabling him from getting to the shuttle. Loyal to his friend, Daniel stayed with him as the others fled. When he could no longer fight off the drones, he detonated an explosive to destroy them, killing himself and Wheelie in the process. {{storylink|Departure}}
{{-}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
[[File:Infestation Aztec Theatres inside.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Then, would those be ''male'' ninja robots?]]
A science fiction movie, ''[[Enter the Nightbird (film)|Enter the Nightbird]]'', featured Nightbird kicking shiny metal robo-ass. {{storylink|Infestation (Dreamwave)|Infestation}}

===''Kre-O'' comic===
Nightbird was wanted as one of Earth's five most wanted criminals. Little did the Autobots know that their list was out of date, leading to their shock when [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] came under attack from [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Autobot Spike]], [[Donny Finkleberg|Robot Master]], [[Doctor Arkeville|Dr. Arkeville]], [[Headmaster (Animated)|Headmaster]]... and a whole lotta Nightbirds! The villains nearly managed to steal Metroplex's brain, but were thwarted at the last possible moment by [[Carzap (BT)|Carzap]] and [[G.B. Blackrock]]. In the battle's aftermath, several Nightbirds found themselves strewn about in pieces. {{storylink|The Brick List: Earth's Most Wanted}}

===2005 IDW continuity===
Nightbird was identified as a [[Cityspeaker]] by a [[Caminus (planet)|Camien]] newscaster. {{storylink|Primeless, Part 1}}

===Velocitron Speedia 500===
[[File:VelocitronSpeedia1-SwerveNightbird.jpg|left|thumb|150px|Benefiting mankind over here.]]
Nightbird served as the {{w|race queen}} for the [[Speedia 500]], {{Storylink|Velocitron Speedia 500 Part 1}} and cheered as the race neared its end. {{storylink|Velocitron Speedia 500 Part 2}}
{{--}}

==Games==
===''Transformers Legends''===
At her unveiling by Doctor Fujiyama, Nightbird was stolen by the Decepticons and reprogrammed by Hardshell to serve them. She was sent on a mission to Autobot HQ, where she stole the World Energy Chip and successfully escaped into the desert, however Jazz and Brawn gave chase, and despite the best efforts of the Decepticons, she was recovered along with the chip. The Autobots returned her to Doctor Fujiyama, who put her in stasis. {{storylink|Enter the Nightbird (Legends)|Enter the Nightbird}}

===''Angry Birds Transformers''===
{{main|Zeta#As Nightbird}}
Nightbird appears as a character unlockable in Challenge Events. She is portrayed by Zeta. {{storylink|Angry Birds Transformers (mobile game)|Angry Birds Transformers}}

===''Transformers: Earth Wars''===
[[File:NightbirdEarthWars.jpg|thumb|upright=2| So about that upgrade....]]
Programmed with the skills of a mighty ninja, the non-sentient Nightbird developed a full meta-processor brain after being implanted with one of Bombshell's cerebro shells, which merged with her own simulated intelligence.

Nightbird became one of the greatest threats to the Autobots, even more so when—as Bombshell was reformatted—she gained true sentience and freedom of thought. {{storylink|Transformers: Earth Wars|Nightbird character bio}}

When Arcee, the Autobots' recon and decoy specialist, was sent to Earth, Nightbird was sent in response. Nightbird had some showdowns with Arcee before settling in with the rest of the Decepticons. {{storylink|Transformers: Earth Wars|Crystal City}}

*'''Class:''' Warrior
*'''Lowest Star Rating:''' 2 star
*'''Weapons:'''Nightbird uses her gun on a target, then closes in and kicks and punches it.
*'''Ability:''' '''Holo Decoy''' - Place a decoy that soaks up damage and stuns a defense. Only one decoy can be active at a time.

[http://wiki.transformersearthwars.com/character:nightbird Nightbird at Transformers: Earth Wars Wiki]
{{--}}

==Toys==
===''Kre-O''===
*'''Earth's Most Wanted''' (Kreon multi-pack, [[2015]])
**''Accessories'': Katana, nunchaku, sai, two shuriken, ''Kre-O'' stand-plate

: [[Kreon]] Nightbird uses the standard Kreon body, despite being released in 2015, the year Kreon construction changed every piece from the neck down. She uses Lockdown's helmet, though with the mask portion clipped on backwards. She has a backpack that can sheath her katana and a clip on her arm for additional weapon storage.

: The "Earth's Most Wanted" Kreon pack was originally available only at [[BotCon 2015]], and also includes Kreons of [[Doctor Arkeville#Kre-O|Doctor Arkeville]], [[Donny Finkleberg#Kre-O|Robot Master]], [[Sentinel Prime (Animated)#Kre-O|Sentinel Prime]], the [[Headmaster (Animated)#Kre-O|Headmaster]], and [[Spike Witwicky (G1)#Kre-O|Autobot Spike]].

===''Legends''===
[[File:Legends-toy Nightbird.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|She's everything [[Raksha|someone]] always wanted.]]
*'''Nightbird Shadow''' (Deluxe, 2015)
**''ID number:'' '''LG15'''
**''Release date'': [[October 24]] 2015
**''Accessories:'' Pistol, rifle, two swords, two sais

:Part of the eighth wave of ''[[Transformers Legends (franchise)|Transformers Legends]]'' toys (an assortment of entirely ''Legends''-exclusive female villains), "Nightbird Shadow" is a [[retool]]ing of the running change [[variant]] of ''[[Transformers: Generations (toyline)#T30|Generations: Thrilling 30]]'' Deluxe Class [[Arcee (G1)/toys#Generations|Arcee]] featuring a new head and chest, transforming into a Cybertronian open-top sports car. She includes all four of Arcee's weapons – two swords, a large gun and a small gun – as well as two new sai accessories. All six of her weapons each feature several universally-sized rectangular pegs that allows them to be tabbed into multiple matching ports in her fists, forearms, hips, shoulders, and the sides and rear of her car mode. Additionally, her two guns can store beneath her car mode.

:As a retool of the second version of ''Thrilling 30'' Arcee, Nightbird Shadow uses the "open" hand sculpts, which feature a rim at the bottom of the fist to prevent weapon handles from sliding too far in and potentially getting stuck. Unfortunately, this prevents her from properly holding her blasters and swords, but her new sai weapons sidestep this issue by having narrower sections at the end of the handles that can slide past the rims inside the hands, allowing Nightbird to wield the weapons properly if the sais' side tabs are pointed inwards.

:[[Stock photography]] promoting the figure depicted the sai accessories as painted plastic, but they are rendered in translucent yellow on the final production figure. These photos also lack the Decepticon symbol on her car-mode hood.

: Her name is a reference to the Japanese title of her debut cartoon episode: "The Shadow of Nightbird" (ナイトバードの影).
{{GenerationsArceeMold}}
{{--}}

===''Generations Selects''===
[[File:TF-Generations-WFC-S-Deluxe-Nightbird.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|''Are wa Nan-nan ja? Nan ja? Nan ja? Nin-ninja, ninja ninja Kakuranger, ninja ninja Ninja Sentai Kakuranger!'']]
*'''Nightbird''' (Deluxe Class, [[2019]])
**''Series'': '''''War for Cybertron: Siege'''''
**''Hasbro ID number:'' '''WFC-GS07'''
**''TakaraTomy release date:'' [[September 7]], 2019
**''Accessories:'' "Venomizer Blaster", "Nightshock Baton", 2 "Flash Grenades"
{{toydesigner|[[AJ Piejko-Brown]] (packaging)}}

: A ''[[Generations Selects (toyline)|Generations Selects]]'' add-on to ''[[War for Cybertron: Siege|Siege]]'', Nightbird is a redeco and new head retool of [[Chromia (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Chromia]], transforming into a Cybertronian car. Like Chromia, Nightbird includes a gun compatible with the [[C.O.M.B.A.T. System]]. Two grenades can connect to the barrel, and the scope can be detached and can extend the barrel as well, allowing you to change the length of the barrel and/or scope. The grenades can also attach to the back of the vehicle, as if they are big exhaust pipes. Hasbro stock photography also suggests plugging one grenade into the pegged end of the silencer and the other into the underside of Nightbird's hand, creating the appearance of some sort of small staff to make up for her otherwise notable lack of melee weaponry. The instructions instead suggest connecting the two grenades together, then pegging the silencer on top to make a rather bottom-heavy baton. The arrangement can be reversed to make a mace. Unlike most ''Siege'' figures, Nightbird is basically spotless, with no battle damage paint applications anywhere on her body. She also features multiple hardpoints all over herself and her weapon to accommodate "Fire Blasts" from the [[Battle Master]]s assortment, which can be used to simulate blaster fire or explosions.

:Despite Nightbird sharing a similar transformation scheme with the ''[[Power of the Primes (toyline)|Power of the Primes]]'' [[Moonracer (G1)|Moonracer]]/[[Firestar (G1)|Novastar]] mold, the Chromia/Nightbird mold is ''mostly'' unique, save for the wheels, thighs and hip [[ball joint]] sockets.

: Some copies of Nightbird seem to suffer from either mold degradation or poor quality control, with exceptionally tight peg holes, loose joints, and excess plastic. Sometimes the extra plastic is simply extra flash near molding lines from the [[sprue]] which hasn't been removed, while other times it's in more problematic spots like the opening around the peg holes on the grenades. Others have reported figures arriving broken or breaking after transforming it for the first time.

: The [[Stock photography|stock photos]] on the Hasbro Pulse website show the vehicle mode mistransformed. One has the robot mode feet exposed in vehicle mode, neglecting to fold out the front panel to cover them. The other shows the grenades/tail pipes at a very high angle, meaning the head is not rotated completely backward. This one also shows the silencer piece attached to the ''side'' of the blaster, which is possible but not intentional as the hole that allows this is a different shape and much longer than the notch.

:This toy was released exclusively through [[Hasbro Pulse]] and other online retailers in North America, and [[TakaraTomy Mall]] in Japan. It was also available at general retail in Singapore.

:This mold was further retooled to make ''[[Transformers: Legacy (toyline)|Legacy]]'' [[Kaskade|Ascenticon Kaskade]].

{{--}}

=== ''Masterpiece'' ===
[[File:TF-Masterpiece-MP-55-Nightbird.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|"You gave her ''rocket launchers?!''" "Look, it's harder to build a robot without them, okay? They're load-bearing."]]
*'''Nightbird Shadow''' ([[February 28]], [[2022]])
**''TakaraTomy ID number'': '''MP-55'''
**''Hasbro ID number'': '''MP-51+'''
**''Accessories'': 2 swords, 2 sais, 2 [[lightsaber]] handles, 2 lightsaber blades, 2 shuriken, 2 guns,2 mouthplates, 3 [[Fire Blast effect]]s, holster, alternate face

:''[[Masterpiece]]'' Nightbird is a retool of ''Masterpiece'' [[Arcee (G1)/toys#Masterpiece|Arcee]], transforming into a Cybertronic car. In addition to recolors of the two small guns, three blast effects, and holster that were among the accessories included with Arcee, Nightbird comes with a veritable arsenal of new weapons: two lightsabers with removable blades, two sai, two shuriken (all drawn from the original cartoon), and two swords based on those which came with the ''Legends'' figure. Nightbird's mouthplate can be removed to reveal her full face, and she also comes with an additional unmasked face (complete with molded anime-esque sweatdrop) inspired by [[LG-15 Nightbird Shadow Sequel|her appearance in the ''Legends'' comic]] that is also compatible with the mouthplate.

:Amusingly, Nightbird's [[instructions]] depict an ''official "swan mode"'' directly based on the aforementioned ''Legends'' comic episode. And yes, it's just as ridiculous as it was in the comic.
:*[[Source:The Transformers: Masterpiece#MP-55 Destron Ninja Nightbird Shadow|''Masterpiece'' Nightbird Shadow bio translation]]
{{--}}

==Merchandise==
===''Transformers Trading Card Game''===
[[File:W4PNightbird.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
*'''Nightbird, Enigmatic Agent''' (2019)
**'''Wave 4P: War for Cybertron: Siege II'''
**''Rarity: '''''RT'''
**''Card Number: '''''P7/2019'''
**''Stars: ''7
:'''Nightbird, Enigmatic Agent''' was released as an in-store play promo for the Transformers Trading Card Game's Wave 4: War for Cybertron: Siege II release.
{{--}}

==Notes==
*Nightbird's gadgets to benefit humanity include: {{w|nunchaku}} (unused), a pair of {{w|Sai (weapon)|''sai'' daggers}} (also unused), a wrist-mounted grappling hook, magnetic feet (they also work on rocks!), fist-replacing sawblades, {{w|Metsubushi|some kind of spin/make bright light/disappear gimmick}}, an endless supply of hip-stored energized [[shuriken]], a beam saber, another unused weapon the hilt of which is visible on her "backpack", a glowing magnetic [[tractor beam]], and stereo speaker-nullifying metal donuts. Additionally, she vanishes after jumping over a cliff edge, leading Mirage to wonder if she has the power of invisibility.
*The Nightbirds in ''The Wreckers'' comic have four different accent colors, the same colors as the bandanas of the {{w|Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles}}.
*Nightbird was featured among the Decepticon forces on the [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] [[20th Anniversary Lithograph]].
*A screencap of Nightbird was used to represent the [[Nightracer (G1)|Nightracer]] in the comic story "[[A Flash Forward, Part 2]]" since her head was a close fit and the art style matched the images of other Decepticons next to her. According to [[Pete Sinclair]] and [[Jesse Wittenrich]], the image wasn't supposed to be recognizable as Nightbird once it was obscured by [[Sky-Byte (RID)|Sky-Byte]], but either Sky-Byte didn't cover her up in a way that would obscure her enough, or maybe we're just that good. She's not intended to be the same character as Nightbird.
*Nightbird’s appearance in the Velocitron Speedia 500 manga seems to be loosely based on [[Studio Series|Studio Series]] [[Arcee (G1)/toys#Studio Series|Arcee]].

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Nightbird''' (ナイトバード ''Naitobādo'')
*''French:'' '''Oiseau de Nuit''' (Europe, "Nightbird")
*''Italian:'' '''Ninja'''
*''Mandarin:'' '''Yèyīng''' (China, 夜莺, "Nightingale"), '''Yèniǎo''' (Taiwan, 夜鳥, "Nightbird")
*''Russian:'' '''Golubka''' (Голубка, "Dove")
*''Spanish:'' '''Ave Nocturna''' (Latin America, "Nightbird")

[[Category:Assassins]]
[[Category:Caminus]]
[[Category:Cityspeakers]]
[[Category:Female Transformers]]
[[Category:Generation 1 cartoon Decepticons]]
[[Category:Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category:Generation 1 Decepticons]]
[[Category:Generation 1 Mercenaries]]
[[Category:Generations Selects Decepticons]]
[[Category:Generations Selects toy Decepticons]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) Transformers]]
[[Category:Kreons]]
[[Category:Kre-O Decepticons]]
[[Category:Legends Decepticons]]
[[Category:Man-made Transformers]]
[[Category:Mass-produced Transformers]]
[[Category:Ninjas]]
[[Category:Robots]]
[[Category:Second Cybertron Alliance]]
[[Category:TakaraTomy Mall exclusives]]
[[Category:Universe characters]]
[[Category:War for Cybertron: Siege Decepticons]]

Nemesis (G1)

2023-12-06T00:30:10Z

Warpshard: /* Legacy */ Changed shin cannons to ship cannons in accessories, since most of those guns are on the chest, right?

{{factions|decepticon}}
{{disambigm|Nemesis (disambiguation)|Lemuria (disambiguation)}}
:''The ''Nemesis'' is a space ship from the [[Generation 1 continuity family|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[File:Nemesis astroids.jpg|upright=1.6|thumb|When the Decepticons play a game of Asteroids, it's quite literal.]]

The '''''Nemesis''''' was the flagship of the [[Decepticon fleet]] and the most powerful warship they ever built. It was notorious for ambushing and shooting down the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]''.

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics====
{{noteukonly}}

[[File:Target2006 nemesis.jpg|275px|thumb|left|Like some va...wait, what?]]

[[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] and his crew of Decepticons used the ''Nemesis'' to chase [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] and his crew of Autobots out into deep space. Eventually, the Decepticons boarded the ''Ark'', the Autobots' ship, and left the ''Nemesis'' orbiting Earth. The ''Ark'' then crashed into Earth with all the Transformers on board, deactivating them and leaving the ''Nemesis'' in orbit with [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] to watch it. {{storylink|The Transformers (issue)|The Transformers}}

''The ''Nemesis'' remained undisturbed, hidden from Earthling view with superior cloaking technology. In 2006, [[Galvatron (G1)#Galvatron I|Galvatron]] traveled back in time to the year 1986 in order to build a large laser cannon to destroy [[Unicron/Generation 1#Marvel The Transformers comics|Unicron]]. Upon completing the cannon, Galvatron tested its effectiveness on the orbiting ''Nemesis'', destroying the ship with a single blast.'' {{storylink|Target: 2006}}

====''Transformers '84''====
The ''Nemesis'' was designed by [[Jetfire (G1)|Skyfire]] so [[Decepticon High Command]] could ambush the Autobots after they'd destroyed the oncoming [[asteroid belt]]. Skyfire himself however was barred from boarding on Shockwave's orders, the lead scientist feeling that his subordinate's talents would be best utilized if he remained on Cybertron. After a delay with the absent Shockwave, the ship launched, {{storylink|Secrets & Lies issue 1|Secrets & Lies #1}} hiding behind an asteroid so it could ambush its Autobot counterpart. Deducing Optimus Prime's trap, Shockwave remained aboard the ''Nemesis'' during the fateful attack. After the ''Ark'' crashed on Earth, Shockwave used the ship to communicate with [[Punch (G1)|Counterpunch]] before the [[Conehead]]s boarded. Needing to verify on the status of the ''Ark'', Shockwave incapacitated the three with a [[scraplet]] virus before he exited the ship. Solar cycles later, Counterpunch tried to make contact with the now overdue Shockwave, the ship rerouting the call to the scientist's hastily assembled mining station. {{storylink|Secrets & Lies issue 2|Secrets & Lies #2}} Still in orbit, the ship's environmental protocols cured the Coneheads of the scraplet virus. After they took stock of their situation, the trio blasted out of the ''Nemesis'' to find the ''Ark'' and Shockwave. {{storylink|Secrets & Lies issue 3|Secrets & Lies #3}}

Though the Coneheads found the ''Ark'', they also found a controlled Megatron channeling dangerously large amounts of [[antimatter]], quickly taking their leave. Retreating back to the ''Nemesis'', they found themselves unable to engage the propulsion system, contacting [[Straxus (G1)|Straxus]] to deliver a status report and request rescue. Straxus agreed to send rescue but only on the condition that they stayed silent about the ''Ark'', an offer that the Coneheads readily agreed to. {{storylink|Secrets & Lies issue 4|Secrets & Lies #4}}

====Crew====
{{collist|3|
*[[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]]
*[[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]]
*[[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]]
*[[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]
*[[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]]
*[[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]]
*[[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
*[[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]
*[[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]]
*[[Thundercracker (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Thundercracker]]
*[[Skywarp (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Skywarp]]
*[[Viewfinder]]
*[[Decepticon medics|A medic]]
*[[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]
*[[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]]
*[[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]]}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====''The Transformers'' cartoon====
[[File:NemesisMicrobots1.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Eh, it's not so big]]

The ''Nemesis'' was the ship used by the Decepticons to pursue the [[Autobot]]s. All the Decepticons left the ship to board the ''Ark'' and both ships ended-up crashing on prehistoric [[Earth]]. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 1}}

Before the crash, however, several objects were ejected from the ship, including an escape pod {{storylink|A Plague of Insecticons}} and what would become the [[Pearl of Bahoudin]]. {{storylink|Trans-Europe Express}}

In 1985, archaeologists eventually discovered the wreck of the ''Nemesis'' in South America. Once [[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]] relayed the news to [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]], the Decepticons deployed immediately. Upon arriving, Megatron removed the ''Nemesis''{{'}}s power-source, the [[Heart of Cybertron]] and had [[Hook (G1)#The Transformers cartoon|Hook]] then install it in him. Imbued with near-limitless power, Megatron then attempted to destroy the Autobots, and almost succeeded, until the Heart of Cybertron was removed from his body and destroyed by [[Perceptor (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Perceptor]], [[Brawn (G1)#The Transformers cartoon|Brawn]] and [[Bumblebee (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Bumblebee]]. {{storylink|Microbots}}
{{--}}

=====Crew=====
[[File:GenericDecepticons MTMTE.jpg|thumb|upright=1.8]]
{{collist|2|
*[[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]]
*[[Bombshell (G1)#The Transformers cartoon|Bombshell]]
*[[Buzzsaw (G1)#The Transformers cartoon|Buzzsaw]]
*[[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
*[[Kickback (G1)#The Transformers cartoon|Kickback]]
*[[Laserbeak (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Laserbeak]]
*[[Reflector (G1)#The Transformers cartoon|Reflector]]
*[[Ravage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ravage]]
*[[Rumble (G1)#The Transformers cartoon|Rumble]]
*[[Shrapnel (G1)#The Transformers cartoon|Shrapnel]]
*[[Skywarp (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Skywarp]]
*[[Soundwave (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Soundwave]]
*[[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]]
*[[Thundercracker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Thundercracker]]
*Various [[Air Warrior]]s
*Various [[Decepticon Mini-Cassette|Mini-Cassette]]-type warriors
*Various [[Photon]]s
}}

====''Legacy VS500 Collection Special Comic''====
The transformed ''Nemesis'' was a spectator of the second week of the [[Speedia 500]] on [[Velocitron]]. {{storylink|Velocitron Speedia 500 Part 3}}
{{--}}

===''Beast Wars'' cartoon===
[[File:BWNemesisPt1 rises.jpg|left|upright=1.1|thumb|And in four million years, [[Victory (G1)|its sister ship]] crashes into the ocean, coming full circle.]]
The ''Nemesis'' was the flagship of the [[Decepticon fleet]], and the most powerful warship they ever possessed.

[[File:BWNemesisPt1 Nemesisname.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb|Megs wanted his victims to know who it was that blew them up.]]
It shot down the ''Ark'', but was damaged during the battle and crashed on Earth. It was revealed that [[Tarantulas (BW)#Beast Wars cartoon|Tarantulas]] had discovered the wreckage of the ''Nemesis'' deep under water, and had been refurbishing it for unknown purposes. While he'd finished rebuilding it and outfitting it with [[unspace|transwarp]] capabilities and a Predacon-scaled command console, Tarantulas was killed before he could use it; [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] found out about the ''Nemesis'' soon after, and commandeered it as a last ditch attempt to rewrite history and destroy the ''Ark''. {{storylink|Nemesis Part 1|Nemesis Part 1}}

Using the ''Nemesis''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s awesome power, Megatron managed to kill [[Tigerhawk#Beast Wars cartoon|Tigerhawk]], as well as [[Inferno (BW)#Beast Wars cartoon|Inferno]] and [[Quickstrike (BW)#Beast Wars cartoon|Quickstrike]] by accident when he tried to avenge himself on the [[anthropoid]] leader. He soon began to tear at [[Mount St. Hilary]], intending to obliterate the slumbering ''Ark''! In the final battle, the ''Nemesis''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s controls were severely damaged when [[Rhinox (BW)#Beast Wars cartoon|Rhinox]] crashed an [[Autobot Shuttle Omega Delta|Autobot shuttle]] ''through'' the warship. Out of control, the ship flew eastwards into the rising sun, turning slowly south and eventually crashing (unseen) several thousand miles away. {{storylink|Nemesis Part 2|Nemesis Part 2}}
{{--}}

====Tactical systems====
{{quote|I will say this for my namesake; he liked the artillery big, and plentiful.|Beast Wars Megatron on ''Nemesis''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s armaments|"[[Nemesis Part 2]]"}}
[[File:Nemesis missiles.JPG|left|upright=0.85|thumb|Skywarp, Rumble, and Thrust liked to write messages on the missiles.]]
Even for the flagship of the Decepticon space fleet, one might have considered the armament on the ''Nemesis'' to be overkill. In addition to the standard energy weapons used by the Decepticons, the vessel carried a massive amount of [[missile]]s, which could be fired slowly in a swarm of rocket propelled death. A [[tractor beam]] could pull anything beneath it up to be sliced and grounded up by rotating blades and drills. The blades were incredibly sharp, being able to slice through solid rock.

[[File:Nemesis fusion cannon.JPG|125px|thumb|"A second fusion cannon is unworkable, Megatron." "Silence, Starscream!"]]
Given that Megatron himself would have be the ship's normal commander, it should not be surprising that the primary weapon on the ''Nemesis'' was a [[fusion cannon]]. The fusion cannon was powered by its own reactor, apparently separate from the main [[Energon]] supply. The reactor needed to be at one hundred percent capacity to fire a blast, and would require a powerup time between blasts.

The ship also featured systems to enable the forced boarding of enemy ships. A pair of magnetic couplings amidships allowed for the ''Nemesis'' to forcibly establish a magnetic junction between herself and the unfortunate target, and a boarding chute could be released from within the hull to allow crew-members to cross the gap between ships. The tip of the chute could also be heated to cut through hull plating at least as thick as that used on the ''[[Ark (G1)#The Transformers cartoon|Ark]]''.

Tactically the ship had two main weaknesses. During the flight from Cybertron a heavy meteor shower required so much power to maintain the shields that ''Nemesis'' was forced to fly in the ''Ark''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s wake in order to survive. Given that a similar energy crisis shortly affected the ''Ark'' as well, it would seem that both ships were weakened by the lack of energy on Cybertron. Ergo, the ''Nemesis'' functioned best when well-fueled, otherwise her size and power requirements could make the ship a liability.

The second weakness was placing all the main tactical, command and fire-control systems in the prominent dorsal conning tower. Though the location provided an excellent viewpoint for piloting the ship and directing combat (and was presumably well armored and shielded), it also made for a compelling target, as happened in the final act of the Beast Wars when Rhinox piloted an [[Autobot Shuttle Omega Delta|Autobot shuttle]] straight into the conning tower in a kamikaze run, taking out the bridge and crippling the ship, which flew rudderless until crashing in [[South America]], where in the 20th century human excavations would unearth her. {{storylink|Nemesis Part 2}} {{storylink|Microbots}}
{{--}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
[[File:NemesisDreamwave1.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|"Prepare for ship-to-ship intimacy."]]

Built to be the flagship of [[Megatron (G1)#Dreamwave Generation One continuity|Megatron]]'s space fleet, the ''Nemesis'' was one of the largest ships created in its time. It used experimental Transwarp technology for space travel. On Cybertron the ship was mainly used as a siege engine, hoards of Decepticons would disembark to attack Autobot targets, while the ''Nemesis'' would launch a bombardment. {{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye}}
After returning to Earth following Shockwave's defeat on Cybertron, [[Starscream (G1)#Dreamwave Generation One continuity|Starscream]] used the ''Nemesis'' as his base of operations. It is unknown if the warship had previously been used for this purpose by the Decepticons or if Starscream rediscovered it after returning to Earth. {{storylink|Black Sunshine}}

The technical specifications for the ''Nemesis'' were:

*Estimated length: 2.5 miles
*Wingspan: 1.75 miles
*Height: 1.25 miles

{{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye #8}}

===2005 IDW continuity===
A [[worldburner]]-class capital ship, the ''Nemesis'' was designed to raze whole planets. {{storylink|Earthfall Part 5: I Dream of Wires|I Dream of Wires}}

After [[Megatron (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Megatron]] defected to the Autobots, [[Galvatron (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Galvatron]] took command of the Decepticons and led them to Earth on board the ''Nemesis''. The ship was kept in high orbit before later flying to the [[Earth Defense Command#2005 IDW continuity|EDC]]'s base on [[Marshall Islands|Bikini Atoll]] after the "[[mindbomb]]" was used on the Decepticons. {{storylink|Earthfall Part 4: Full Fathom Five|Full Fathom Five}} When Prowl hacked into the EDC mainframe he unleashed all the missiles on the ''Nemesis'' crippling it and causing it to crash instantly. {{storylink|Earthfall Part 5: I Dream of Wires| I Dream of Wires}} The wreck of the ship ended up on the bottom of the Indian Ocean where it was continued to be used as the main base of the Decepticons. {{storylink|Onyx Interface Part One: Signals, Calls, and Marches|Signals, Calls, and Marches}} Following its near-destruction by [[Superion (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|Superion]], {{storylink|All Hail Optimus Part 5: As Above...So Below|As Above...So Below}} and capture by the EDC, {{storylink|White Heat}} [[G.I. Joe (team)#2005 IDW continuity|G.I. Joe]] moved in turning into a stationary base that they rechristened '''''Lemuria'''''. {{storylink|G.I. Joe vol. 5 issue 1|G.I. Joe vol. 5 #1}}

When [[Unicron/Generation 1#2005 IDW continuity|Unicron]] began his attack on the [[Cybertronian colonies#2005 IDW continuity|Cybertronian colonies]], [[Depth Charge (BW)#2005 IDW continuity|Depth Charge]] led a horde of [[Maximal#2005 IDW continuity|Maximals]] to attack ''Lemuria'' only for he and his troops to be chased off by [[Skywarp (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Skywarp]]'s group. {{storylink|Last Stand (G.I. Joe)|Last Stand}} [[Scarlett#2005 IDW continuity|Scarlett]] viewed the attack as proof that Unicron would eventually turn his attention to Earth. {{storylink|Road's End}} Following the defeat of Unicron, [[Shockwave (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Shockwave]] was imprisoned aboard ''Lemuria'', with [[Prowl (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Prowl]] serving as his warden. {{storylink|Post}}

===''Transformers vs. G.I. Joe''===
The Decepticon flagship, the ''Nemesis'' was commandeered by [[Shipwreck#Transformers vs. G.I. Joe|Shipwreck]] in an unseen adventure. Utilizing the ship, the Joe rammed Megatron's "Mega-Megatron" [[Combiner|combined]] form, returning the Decepticon leader to his normal state. After the Decepticons had been defeated, Shipwreck used the ''Nemesis'' to patrol the trade routes within the [[asteroid belt]] and fight off [[Zanzibar]]'s piracy. {{storylink|The War Never Ends}}

===''Beast Wars: Uprising''===
The legendary vessel that carried the Decepticons to Earth, by the late 24th century a surviving piece of the ''Nemesis'' was part of the collection in the office of [[Dynamic Energon Distilleries|D.E.D.]] administrator [[Megatron (BW)#Beast Wars: Uprising|Gnashteeth]]. {{storylink|Identity Politics}}

===''Star Trek vs. Transformers''===
Four million years ago, the ''Nemesis'' followed the ''Ark'', immobilizing it with its tractor beams so the crew could board the Autobot ship. While the ''Ark'' crashed on the nearby Earth, what happened to the ''Nemesis'' is unknown, but when the Decepticons later departed Earth to flee [[World War III]], they did so aboard [[Trypticon (G1)#Star Trek vs. Transformers|Trypticon]].

While mind-melded with [[Optimus Prime (G1)#Star Trek vs. Transformers|Optimus Prime]], [[Spock]] glimpsed his memories of the ''Nemesis''. {{storylink|Prime's Directive, Part Two}}

===''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' marketing material===
With Cybertron's fate sealed and the Autobots gone, the Decepticons followed them closely through space aboard the ''Nemesis'' in pursuit of the [[AllSpark]]. {{storylink|War for Cybertron: Earthrise|''Earthrise'' webpage}}<ref>[https://transformers.hasbro.com/en-us/brands/earthrise ''Earthrise'' website]</ref>

In the midst of their mission, [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] discovered that ''Nemesis'' crewmember Counterpunch was actually an Autobot double agent named [[Punch (G1)|Punch]]. Once his identity was discovered, Punch escaped the ''Nemesis'' in an escape pod and made his way to the nearby Disaster Planet, [[Master (planet)|Dominus]]. Megatron, in retaliation, sent Barricade to hunt him down. {{Storylink|Source:Earthrise Galactic Odyssey Collection|Encounter 4: Dominus Criminal Pursuit}}

{{stub|{{storylink|Source:Kingdom Golden Disk Collection#CHAPTER 2: …AND OUT THE OTHER SIDE|''Golden Disk Collection'' Chapter 2}} {{storylink|Source:Kingdom Golden Disk Collection#CHAPTER 4: THE TERRORFYING CONCLUSION|''Golden Disk Collection'' Chapter 4}}}}

===''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' cartoon===
After the Autobots had removed the [[AllSpark|Allspark]] from Cybertron, the planet's condition began to decline, Megatron redirected all resources on Cybertron, including the [[spark]]s of his prisoners and soldiers, into Project Nemesis, a massive starship with which to find the Allspark and find the Autobot ''Ark''. {{storylink|Earthrise episode 1}} {{storylink|Earthrise episode 2}}

After being informed of the ''Ark''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s location by [[Doubledealer]], {{storylink|Earthrise episode 6}} the ''Nemesis'' set out for the [[Nebulos|Nebulon]] system, finding the ''Ark'' by an active [[space bridge]] that the Autobots hoped to use to reach the Allspark. Unwilling to turn the warship's armament on the portal, Megatron ordered a boarding party prepped. {{storylink|Earthrise episode 3}}

Having slipped away from the chaos, Starscream was more than willing to use the ''Nemesis'' to destroy the ''Ark'', ordering an attack just as the Autobot craft went to warp. {{storylink|Earthrise episode 4}}

The energies had opened a portal to the [[Dead Universe]], an opening that Megatron, after kicking Starscream off the bridge, ordered the ship through. Entering the rift, the ''Nemesis'' was boarded by [[Galvatron (G1)|a mysterious Decepticon]] who guided Megatron after the ''Ark'' and how to harness the strange powers of the realm. By the time he'd left, the ''Nemesis'' had caught up with the ''Ark'' just as both ships returned to normal space, above an organic planet. {{storylink|Earthrise episode 5}}

Its weapon systems offline after the jolt of crossing realities, the ''Nemesis'' used its [[tractor beam]] to tow in the ''Ark'', ramming it. As the Decepticons boarded the ''Ark'', [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] took the chance to scamper over to the unguarded ''Nemesis'', seizing command of it and turning its weapons on the ''[[Fool's Fortune]]'' when it arrived. When the ''Fortune''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s warp core began to overload however, the ''Nemesis'' disconnected from the ''Ark'' and began pulling away. {{storylink|Earthrise episode 6}}

Unable to reach a safe distance in time, the ''Nemesis'' was caught in the blast and wound up crashing on the planet. {{storylink|Kingdom episode 1}} When the [[Maximal]]s detected its crash, [[Optimus Primal (BW)|Optimus Primal]] sent [[Airazor (BW)|Airazor]] to investigate, ordering her to allow herself to be captured so he could surreptitiously place tracking devices on the crew. {{storylink|Kingdom episode 2}} As she scouted the perimeter, the [[Predacon (BW)|Predacons]] approached the ship and struck an alliance with the Decepticons. {{storylink|Kingdom episode 1}} When Airazor was discovered, she was promptly imprisoned, the Autobots and Maximals setting out to rescue her. Despite the foreknowledge granted to the Decepticons and Predacons by the [[Golden Disk (Voyager)|Golden Disk]], the Autobots and Maximals were successful in their mission. {{storylink|Kingdom episode 2}}

Following the Autobots and Maximals recovering the Allspark, the ''Nemesis'' had been repaired and set out for the ''Ark'', turning its cannons on it. [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]] was snuck aboard the ship, managing to hack into and disable its weapon systems. When Megatron decided to substitute his warship's firepower with his own, he was confronted by [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] allowing enough of a delay for [[Teletraan I]] to reconfigure the ''Ark'' into a transformable body. With this newfound power, Teletraan managed to physically punch the ''Nemesis'', bringing it down. Its wreckage was subsequently abandoned when the Autobots and Maximals took the Decepticons and Predacons prisoner and returned to Cybertron. {{storylink|Kingdom episode 5}}
===''Legacy''===
The ''Nemesis'' struck fear in those who dared cross her. She despised Autobots and her only goal was to demolish any opposition to a Decepticon victory. {{storylink|#Legacy|Nemesis bio}}

==Games==
===''Transformers: Mystery of Convoy''===
At the end of the [[Subspace Zone]], [[Ultra Magnus (G1)#Games|Ultra Magnus]] fought and defeated the Destron Boat. {{storylink|Transformers: Mystery of Convoy}}

===''Angry Birds Transformers''===
The starship appears as an accessory to [[Minion Pig#As Cyclonus|Cyclonus]], and it is very, VERY small, which is very, VERY weird. {{storylink|Angry Birds Transformers (mobile game)|Angry Birds Transformers}}

===''Transformers Roleplaying Game''===
The ''Nemesis'' crash-landed in South America, and Megatron used it as his headquarters for some time during the early days of the war on Earth. However, when a group of Decepticons began constructing the ''[[Victory (G1)|Victory]]'', they cannibalized most of the ''Nemesis'' and recycled the parts into their new ship. {{storylink|Decepticon Directive}}

==Toys==
===''Titans Return''===
[[File:Titans Return Trypticon.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-d1|'''Decepticon Necro & Decepticon Full-Tilt & Trypticon''' (Titan Class, 2017)}}</ul>
:*''Accessories:'' Cannon/Full-Tilt holder
{{note|[[Trypticon (G1)#Titans Return|Trypticon]] was described as transforming into the ''Nemesis'' in a Designer's Desk video released on Hasbro's YouTube Channel,<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjQE0N233X0] Transformers: Titans Return - ‘Trypticon’ Designer Desk | Transformers Official, 14 September 2017</ref> seemingly in reference to [[Trypticon (WFC)|Aligned Trypticon]] becoming the ''Nemesis''.}}

:Standing at 20 inches tall, ''[[Titans Return (toyline)|Titans Return]]'' Trypticon was the tallest Decepticon figure made at that point. (It was later surpassed by the [[War for Cybertron: Earthrise|Earthrise]] release of [[Scorponok (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron: Earthrise|Scorponok]].) He features several new action features, such as a spring-loaded pop-out forehead-gun and the ability to "eat" Titan Master figures, who fall down his throat into his stomach, which can be opened to retrieve them. His city mode unfolds to around three feet wide, and the "battle station" mode of his classic toy is rebranded as the ''Nemesis'', a spaceship that can fit a Deluxe-class action figure in its forward bay. The front of the ''Nemesis'' mode features sculpted faux eyes, intended to make it look like it is formed by Trypticon's head. In lieu of electronics, Trypticon comes with his old partner [[Full-Tilt (G1)#Titans Return|Full-Tilt]], who has been significantly upgraded to become a full-sized Deluxe figure in his own right, with his own Titan Master partner, [[Wipe-Out#Generations|Necro]], who is actually a new version of Trypticon's comic bud, [[Wipe-Out]]. Since his head is obviously too large to interact with Titan Masters as most Titans Return figures do, he features a slot near the back of his head where you can insert a head-mode Titan Master, causing the orange canopy on his head to open and the laser cannon to slide up.

:Early production runs of the figure had a serious [[design flaw]] in the hip ratchets: a combination of strong springs and weak plastic caused the mechanisms of the joints to destroy themselves very quickly if they were used. Cutting the springs in half or repeatedly compressing them to reduce their length appears to solve this problem on affected copies of the toy. Later production runs appear to have fixed the issue entirely. Similarly, early specimens of this figure had a chest door that would not latch closed properly and could not bear the weight of Full-Tilt; this too was fixed in later shipments. However, the tail is entirely a different matter: the gears inside can potentially make a "snap!" sound even if care is taken while posing, causing the tail to droop down.

:The large cannons on Trypticon's back can be extended; this is mentioned in the instructions, but not depicted in any of the stock photography. Originally, the paired towers on Trypticon's back were symmetrical in their design, mirroring each other. A later [[variant]] was released with a [[retool]]ed right tower, mimicking the asymmetrical tower designs on the original figure.

:On Monday 13th February 2017, the Monday before [[Toy Fair 2017]], a picture of the toy was released and swiftly withdrawn from the Transformers Instagram account.

:In fall 2018, huge quantities of Trypticons were found at outlet stores in the U.S. for a fraction of their original price. This may be a sign of poor initial sales, or a result of other retailers buying up what was supposed to be a year's worth of inventory from recently bankrupted U.S. branch of [[Toys"R"Us]].

:Like [[Fortress Maximus (G1)/toys#Generations|Fortress Maximus]], Trypticon doesn't come with his vehicular drone Brunt, though [[Brunt (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|a new Brunt]] was later announced a year later for the ''Siege'' toyline.
{{--}}

===''Studio Series''===
[[File:TF-SS86-Coronation-Starscream-Nemesis-Throne.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|''There's no time for resting.'']]
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-d1|'''Coronation Starscream''' (Leader Class, [[2022]])}}</ul>

:''[[Studio Series]]'' Coronation Starscream comes with a Nemesis throne to sit on. Other Decepticon figures, including ''Siege''/''Earthrise'' Megatron, can be accommodated in the seat.
{{--}}

===''Legacy''===
[[File:TF-Legacy-Titan-Class-Nemesis.jpg|thumb|upright=2.2|''Nemesis'' ''At the end of the line'' '''''I'LL MAKE YOU [[Trypticon_(G1)|MIIIINE]] OOOOOHHH''''']]
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-d1|'''Decepticon Nemesis''' (Titan Class, [[2023]])}}</ul>
:*''TakaraTomy ID number'': '''TL-49'''
:*''TakaraTomy release date'': [[November 25]], 2023
:*''Accessories'': Ship cannons, stabilizer fin axes, 4 [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]] jets
:*''Known designers'': [[Sam Smith]] (Hasbro), [[Hisashi Yuki]] (TakaraTomy), [[Emiliano Santalucia]] (concept artist)<ref>[[April 4]], [[2023]]'s [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Qv8dh66d48 Hasbro Pulse Transformers Fanstream] on YouTube, with [[Ben MacCrae]], [[Evan Brooks]], [[Mark Maher]], [[Sam Smith]], [[Shogo Hasui]] and [[Delaney Norris]]</ref> <ref>Sam Smith's [https://www.instagram.com/p/CrzuqU8MUtc/ Instagram] [https://www.instagram.com/p/Crzu54Qs1Tk/ posts] [https://www.instagram.com/p/CrzvOrbMY2X/ about] ''Legacy'' Decepticon Nemesis</ref>

:The largest [[toy]] of a [[female Transformer]] yet released, ''[[Transformers: Legacy|Legacy: Evolution]]'' "Decepticon Nemesis" transforms from a cartoon-accurate spaceship to robot and back. Her head design is based on the Decepticon insignia and is meant to parallel the "[[Last Autobot]]" design of the previous Titan [[Ark (G1)#War for Cybertron: Kingdom|Autobot Ark]]. The extra horns on her head are inspired by the crown from [[Starscream (G1)/toys#Studio Series|''Studio Series'' Coronation Starscream]]. Her spaceship mode's large ventral fin can unfold to form a flat platform for display purposes.

:In robot mode, her shin pads can detach and become large blasters for her to wield, and similarly her stabilizer fins become hand-held axes. The latter is specifically noted as her [[Evo-Fusion]] ability on the box. Parts around her head can compress to form a battle mask.

:She comes with four tiny unpainted jets that attach to connectors which slide out of her arms. These sliding connectors can also represent the boarding tube from the original cartoon, and are compatible with [[A.I.R. Lock System]]. The jets, as made clear in the [[package art]], represent [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]], [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]], [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] and a Cybertronian-mode [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (though the art for Skywarp is actually based off the [[IP infringement|unlicensed "Prankstor" figure]]… ''whoopsie!''). This choice of jets was not random, as micro-figures of Starscream and [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] had previously been released with the ''[[War for Cybertron Trilogy]]'' "[[Galvatron (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Behold Galvatron]]" set. The jets can remain in place even when the connectors are not deployed, allowing convenient storage of the otherwise easily lost jets.

:Use caution when transforming her arms: the lower arms swing out laterally on ratchet joints, and there is nothing stopping you from moving them one "click" too far and bending back the spaceship segments on her upper arms, immediately leaving stress marks.

:Likely by design, you can make the spaceship form of Nemesis look more like the ''[[Victory (G1)|Victory]]'' if you remove the stabilizer fins and guns, fold down the wing extensions, and remove the top of the conning tower.

:She was revealed in prototype form on the April 4th [[Hasbro Pulse]] Fanstream, with pre-orders going up on [[May 2]]nd.

:*''Designer commentary on ''Legacy'' Nemesis from Sam Smith on Instagram:''
:**''[https://www.instagram.com/p/CrzuqU8MUtc/ Part I]''
:**''[https://www.instagram.com/p/Crzu54Qs1Tk/ Part II - Robot Mode]''
:**''[https://www.instagram.com/p/CrzvOrbMY2X/ Part III - Ship Mode]''
{{-}}

===''Dramatic Capture Series''===
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-d1|'''Nemesis Bridge''' (2024)}}</ul>
:*''Release Date'': March 2024

:The ''[[Dramatic Capture Series]]'' 3-pack comes with a Nemesis Throne reused from the ''Studio Series 86'' Coronation Starscream toy.
{{comingsoontoy}}
{{--}}

==Notes==
*The name "Nemesis" wasn't used until the ''[[Beast Wars: Transformers (cartoon)|Beast Wars]]'' cartoon. Before the show, the ship was simply called "Decepticon Space Cruiser".<ref name=bwu-p35>''[[Beast Wars Universe]]'', page 35</ref>
*According to ''[[The Transformers (cartoon)|The Transformers]]'' episode "[[Microbots]]", the star drive on board the ''Nemesis'' contains a Cybertronian alloy known as [[Cybertroid alloy]].
*According to ''[[Beast Wars Universe]]'', the ''Nemesis'' originally crashed into the [[Atlantic Ocean]]. After the event from the episode "[[Nemesis Part 2]]", this time the ''Nemesis'' crashed into a mountain located in [[Mexico]].<ref name=bwu-p35/>
*''[[Transformers: Energon (franchise)|Transformers: Energon]]'' [[Sharkticon (Energon)|Sharkticon]]'s [[alternate mode|vehicle mode]] was originally designed to resemble the ''Nemesis'', and his early working name was "Decepticon Nemesis".
*In the 2005 IDW continuity the ship is called the ''Nemesis'', looks like the ''[[Revenge (G1)|Revenge]]'', and shares the fate of the ''[[Victory (G1)|Victory]]''. This is why we love [[John Barber]].
* A [[beast mode]] was briefly considered for the ''Legacy Evolution'' Nemesis figure but a more traditional humanoid robot mode was picked to better pair off with [[Ark (G1)#War for Cybertron: Kingdom|The Ark]].<ref>{{citesocial|quote=very briefly at the beginning we discussed a beast form for the Nemesis, but really wanted a bot vs bot to pair off against the ARK. The Arks robot mode was a massive reveal, and we wanted that same energy by way of an all new character..|link=https://www.instagram.com/p/CrzuqU8MUtc/|name=Sam Smith|site=Instagram|year=2023|month=05|day=4}}</ref>

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''''Nemesis''''' (ネメシス ''Nemeshisu''), '''Destron Boat''' (''[[Transformers: Mystery of Convoy|Mystery of Convoy]]'', デストロンボート ''Desutoron Bōto'')
*''Mandarin:'' '''Fùchóu Nǚshén''' (復仇女神, "[[Wikipedia:Nemesis (mythology)|Nemesis]]", lit. "Goddess of Revenge"), '''Bàoyìng Hào''' (China, 报应号, "Retribution"),'''Bàoyǐng Hào''' (China, 暴影号, "Ferocious Shadow")
*''French:'' '''''Némésis'''''

==See also==
*{{i|Lemuria}} at the IDW Hasbro Wiki

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Beast Wars starships]]
[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising starships]]
[[Category:Decepticon bases]]
[[Category:Decepticon starships]]
[[Category:Female Transformers]]
[[Category:Generation 1 locations]]
[[Category:Generation 1 starships]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) starships]]
[[Category:Legacy Decepticons]]
[[Category:Mystery of Convoy Decepticons]]
[[Category:Predacon starships]]

Nightbird (G1)

2023-10-07T18:55:57Z

Warpshard: Added the Featured Article tag to the page, since it's currently a Featured Article

{{factions|decepticon|mercenary}}
{{disambig3|Nightbird}}
{{featured}}
:''Nightbird is a [[Decepticon]]-allied [[human]]-built robot from the [[Generation 1 continuity family]].''

[[File:Nightbird g1.jpg|thumb|"Dude? A giant robot ninja?" "No dude, a giant robot ninja chick!" "Duuuude!"]]
'''Nightbird''' is a giant female ninja robot built to "benefit [[human|mankind]]".

Yeah, those nunchucks are really gonna be ''benefiting'' their way through society.

==Fiction==
===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====''The Transformers'' cartoon====
Nightbird was a robotic ninja warrior created by [[Doctor Fujiyama the Famous Scientist]], ostensibly to show how advanced [[Human]] technology had become. The [[Decepticon]]s stole Nightbird, and [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]] implanted her with an enhanced brain chip which turned the drone-like Nightbird into a true butt-kicking machine. Nightbird broke into the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] and stole the [[Autobot]]s' [[World Energy Chip]], which contained the locations of a variety of energy sources, energy sources that the Decepticons would most assuredly use for conquest!

The Autobots were, at first, hampered by their promise to Doctor Fujiyama not to damage or destroy the ninja robot, and found themselves flustered in botched attempts to capture her. Eventually, however, they used an [[electro mesh prison]] which drained Nightbird's power reserves and allowed the Autobots to capture her without serious damage. Doctor Fujiyama placed Nightbird into cold storage, and she gave an angry glare as she was stored away. {{storylink|Enter the Nightbird}}

====Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity====
[[File:Train Wars Shadow.jpg|thumb|]]
Circa [[2010]], Nightbird was eventually broken out by [[Shadow]], her "younger brother" who was an AI lackey contained within a storage box attached to her thigh. Using her creator's lab, Nightbird upgraded herself {{Storylink|#Masterpiece|Nightbird Shadow bio}} and then attempted to steal away the three [[Trainbot]]s who still remained inactive. The other nine Trainbots attempted to stop her, with the six prototypes even combining into [[G Liner]]. Nightbird used Shadow's [[cerebro-shell]] functions to take over G Liner's mind, but her efforts were ultimately halted by the three remaining Trainbots. Taken into captivity once again, Nightbird used her ninja tricks to escape this time around. {{storylink|The Train Wars: The Origin}}

[[File:Nightbird Shadow Sequel.jpg|thumb|left|100px]]
Nightbird joined up with the Decepticons under the command of [[Galvatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Galvatron]], as he was the new form of her old master, [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]]. When Galvatron was killed in [[2011]] by the [[Autobot]] [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], Nightbird refused to follow the new Decepticon leader, [[Scorponok (G1)|Megazarak]], and instead set out to improve her ninjutsu. Travelling to the [[Six Clan]]'s hidden village on their planet, Nightbird and Shadow met with the Clan's leader, who inducted the two into the group as "Nightbird Shadow". Nightbird trained hard, managing to attain flying squirrel and swan modes, but before she could attain two more alternate modes and become a true [[Six Changer]], she heard in the 2030s that Galvatron had returned as Super Megatron. She left to rejoin the Decepticons on [[Chaar]], bringing along two disciples, [[Road Rocket (G2)|Road Rocket]] and [[Road Pig (G2)|Road Pig]], but not before receiving orders to put down the wayward member of the Six Clan, [[Sixshot (G1)|Sixshot]]. {{Storylink|#Masterpiece|Nightbird Shadow bio}} [[Road Pig (G2)|Road Pig]] and [[Road Rocket (G2)|Road Rocket]] would eventually develop a rivalry over Nightbird. {{Storylink|LG-15 Nightbird Shadow Sequel}}

In one of the [[Legends World]]'s [[Tigatron]]'s dreams, Nightbird was among the evil female Transformers (and related robots, evidently) who sought to kidnap him and fought the heroic female Transformers guarding him. [[Arcee (WFC)|Arcee]] was in Nightbird's line of sight shortly before the dream ended due to Tigatron waking up. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 11|Bonus Edition Vol. 11}} [[Alpha Trion (G1)|Alpha Trion]] later saw Nightbird, [[Blackarachnia (BW)|Blackarachnia]], and [[Slipstream (Animated)|Slipstream]] in a vision of things to come. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 14|Bonus Edition Vol. 14}}

[[File:Transformers Legends LG15 Nightbirds rampage.jpg|thumb|]]

Megatron brought Nightbird with him to the Legends World, where he presented her to the public as a [[Tera-Kura Co.]] ninja maid robot under the name "Nightbird Shadow". To prevent her from causing any problems, he equipped her a clumsiness function that customers found adorable, leading to Tera-Kura mass-producing and selling Nightbird clones for profit. The clones then immediately went out of control and started rampaging through Tokyo, something Megatron credited to their inherently evil Decepticon souls, but were stopped in their tracks by their own clumsiness. The [[Megatron (BW)|local Megatron]] prepared for a mass recall, but the customers of the Nightbirds protested that the clones' little "mischievous streak" was just charming, and they remained on the market. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 15|Bonus Edition Vol. 15}}

[[File:TFLegendVol17DecepticonHalloweenCostumes.jpg|thumb|left]]
During [[Halloween]], Megatron had Nightbird Shadow go trick-or-treating for energy alongside Blackarachnia and Slipstream. Dressed up as a ghost, she and the others knocked on Tigatron's door before getting accosted by [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]], [[Chromia (G1)|Chromia]], and [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]], who were defeated by Blackarachnia. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 17|Bonus Edition Vol. 17}} Later, when quizzed by [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] about her backstory, Nightbird explained her history with the Six Clan and her students, which Rattrap found hard to believe.

At Tera-Kura, employees became enchanted with Nightbird's cuteness when she took off her mask, prompting the company to begin producing the absurdly popular "Nightbird Maskless Version". {{Storylink|LG-15 Nightbird Shadow Sequel}} Nightbird later swooned over the foreign [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] with the other female Tera-Kura employees, {{Storylink|LG19 Sprung Prologue}} driving Tigatron to envy. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 19|Bonus Edition Vol. 19}} The three later came with Megatron on a hot springs trip, and were thus absent when Tera-Kura Co. was briefly taken over by [[Waspinator (BW)#Cartoon continuity|Waspinator]]. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. EX (Waspinator)|Bonus Edition Waspinator}} Nightbird Shadow and Slipstream were targeted by [[Skids (G1)|Skids]] in his quest to send all the Legends World's interdimensional visitors back to their own universes, prompting Megatron to intervene and seemingly lose his life saving his soldiers. As they crowded around his body, however, they found that Megatron persisted in a tiny new body that Nightbird found cute. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 20|Bonus Edition Vol. 20}}

[[Tarantulas (BW)|Tarantulas]], leader of Tera-Kura Co.'s science department and the one in charge of the Nightbird clone production, allied with the Decepticon [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] near one of the production lines. {{storylink|Headmaster Chapter Prologue}} On a chart showing the employees of the newly formed Decepticon Tera-Kura Co. and their titles, Nightbird Shadow was included as one of the "three office ladies". {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 22|Bonus Edition Vol. 22}} When Megatron turned into [[Galvatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Galvatron]] and went on a rampage in the city, Nightbird Shadow and the other two tried to talk (well, sign language) him out of it, but their calling him "Megatron" only angered Galvatron further and he opened fire on them. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 23|Bonus Edition Vol. 23}} Nightbird was later present for [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]]'s failed attempt at usurping Megatron. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 26|Bonus Edition Vol. 26}}

[[File:Nightbird stabs Sixshot.jpg|thumb|]]
Nightbird's continued time at the office involved getting hypnotized into fawning over [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]], {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 34|Bonus Edition Vol. 34}} getting her dress ripped off by [[Apeface]]'s telekinesis, {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 38|Bonus Edition Vol. 38}} and standing around while Megatron argued with [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]]. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 40|Bonus Edition Vol. 40}} When the Headmasters turned against Tera-Kura Co. and came to steal [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]]'s [[transformation cog]] from them, Nightbird led her clones into battle against the traitorous [[Sweep (G1)|Sweeps]]. {{storylink|LG43 Trypticon Mobilization Chapter: Decepticon Civil War|Decepticon Civil War}} Nightbird saw her chance to fulfil her secret mission from the Six Clan when Sixshot appeared in the Legends World. When the rogue ninja was distracted by his victory over [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ultra Magnus]], she snuck up behind him and impaled him, told him he had broken the Six Clan's laws, and left him to die. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 50|Bonus Edition Vol. 50}}

Nightbird remained at Tera-Kura Co. after Megatron left to become mayor, but remained loyal to him and helped take back the company after it was conquered by the [[Concurrence]]. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 63|Bonus Edition Vol. 63}} With the destruction of the Legends World, Nightbird returned with Megatron to their own universe. {{storylink|The Road to Legends' Revival Chapter 2}} She honored the terms of the [[Cybertron Alliance]], the peace treaty between Autobots and Decepticons negotiated by Optimus and Megatron. At the ceremony, she tried to bring about personal peace between her former protégés, Road Rocket and Road Pig. {{storylink|Transformers Legends Final Chapter "Epiloge"|Epiloge}}

Feeling a kinship with them, {{Storylink|#Masterpiece|Nightbird Shadow bio}} Nightbird brought the [[Selector]]s before [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] in [[2050]], allowing [[Rung (G1)|Rung]] to make his plea for the Decepticon to assist them in revolution against their creators, the [[human]]s. {{storylink|Volcanicus comic 1}}
{{--}}

===3H comics===
[[File:Departure Nightbird army.jpg|upright=2.5|left|thumb|Bombshell would be [[Insecticon clone|so proud]].]]
In 2025 or so, Fujiyama, apparently having learned ''nothing'', built an entire army of Nightbird drones. When they went on a rampage, [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]], [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]], and [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] came to the doctor's aid. Though they were rather outnumbered, the group held off the drones long enough for [[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Spot]] to arrive with help and an evacuation shuttle. This was only just too late for Wheelie, who found his back slashed open by a Nightbird drone, disabling him from getting to the shuttle. Loyal to his friend, Daniel stayed with him as the others fled. When he could no longer fight off the drones, he detonated an explosive to destroy them, killing himself and Wheelie in the process. {{storylink|Departure}}
{{-}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
[[File:Infestation Aztec Theatres inside.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Then, would those be ''male'' ninja robots?]]
A science fiction movie, ''[[Enter the Nightbird (film)|Enter the Nightbird]]'', featured Nightbird kicking shiny metal robo-ass. {{storylink|Infestation (Dreamwave)|Infestation}}

===''Kre-O'' comic===
Nightbird was wanted as one of Earth's five most wanted criminals. Little did the Autobots know that their list was out of date, leading to their shock when [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] came under attack from [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Autobot Spike]], [[Donny Finkleberg|Robot Master]], [[Doctor Arkeville|Dr. Arkeville]], [[Headmaster (Animated)|Headmaster]]... and a whole lotta Nightbirds! The villains nearly managed to steal Metroplex's brain, but were thwarted at the last possible moment by [[Carzap (BT)|Carzap]] and [[G.B. Blackrock]]. In the battle's aftermath, several Nightbirds found themselves strewn about in pieces. {{storylink|The Brick List: Earth's Most Wanted}}

===2005 IDW continuity===
Nightbird was identified as a [[Cityspeaker]] by a [[Caminus (planet)|Camien]] newscaster. {{storylink|Primeless, Part 1}}

===Velocitron Speedia 500===
[[File:VelocitronSpeedia1-SwerveNightbird.jpg|left|thumb|150px|Benefiting mankind over here.]]
Nightbird served as the {{w|race queen}} for the [[Speedia 500]], {{Storylink|Velocitron Speedia 500 Part 1}} and cheered as the race neared its end. {{storylink|Velocitron Speedia 500 Part 2}}
{{--}}

==Games==
===''Transformers Legends''===
At her unveiling by Doctor Fujiyama, Nightbird was stolen by the Decepticons and reprogrammed by Hardshell to serve them. She was sent on a mission to Autobot HQ, where she stole the World Energy Chip and successfully escaped into the desert, however Jazz and Brawn gave chase, and despite the best efforts of the Decepticons, she was recovered along with the chip. The Autobots returned her to Doctor Fujiyama, who put her in stasis. {{storylink|Enter the Nightbird (Legends)|Enter the Nightbird}}

===''Angry Birds Transformers''===
{{main|Zeta#As Nightbird}}
Nightbird appears as a character unlockable in Challenge Events. She is portrayed by Zeta. {{storylink|Angry Birds Transformers (mobile game)|Angry Birds Transformers}}

===''Transformers: Earth Wars''===
[[File:NightbirdEarthWars.jpg|thumb|upright=2| So about that upgrade....]]
Programmed with the skills of a mighty ninja, the non-sentient Nightbird developed a full meta-processor brain after being implanted with one of Bombshell's cerebro shells, which merged with her own simulated intelligence.

Nightbird became one of the greatest threats to the Autobots, even more so when—as Bombshell was reformatted—she gained true sentience and freedom of thought. {{storylink|Transformers: Earth Wars|Nightbird character bio}}

When Arcee, the Autobots' recon and decoy specialist, was sent to Earth, Nightbird was sent in response. Nightbird had some showdowns with Arcee before settling in with the rest of the Decepticons. {{storylink|Transformers: Earth Wars|Crystal City}}

*'''Class:''' Warrior
*'''Lowest Star Rating:''' 2 star
*'''Weapons:'''Nightbird uses her gun on a target, then closes in and kicks and punches it.
*'''Ability:''' '''Holo Decoy''' - Place a decoy that soaks up damage and stuns a defense. Only one decoy can be active at a time.

[http://wiki.transformersearthwars.com/character:nightbird Nightbird at Transformers: Earth Wars Wiki]
{{--}}

==Toys==
===''Kre-O''===
*'''Earth's Most Wanted''' (Kreon multi-pack, [[2015]])
**''Accessories'': Katana, nunchaku, sai, two shuriken, ''Kre-O'' stand-plate

: [[Kreon]] Nightbird uses the standard Kreon body, despite being released in 2015, the year Kreon construction changed every piece from the neck down. She uses Lockdown's helmet, though with the mask portion clipped on backwards. She has a backpack that can sheath her katana and a clip on her arm for additional weapon storage.

: The "Earth's Most Wanted" Kreon pack was originally available only at [[BotCon 2015]], and also includes Kreons of [[Doctor Arkeville#Kre-O|Doctor Arkeville]], [[Donny Finkleberg#Kre-O|Robot Master]], [[Sentinel Prime (Animated)#Kre-O|Sentinel Prime]], the [[Headmaster (Animated)#Kre-O|Headmaster]], and [[Spike Witwicky (G1)#Kre-O|Autobot Spike]].

===''Legends''===
[[File:Legends-toy Nightbird.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|She's everything [[Raksha|someone]] always wanted.]]
*'''Nightbird Shadow''' (Deluxe, 2015)
**''ID number:'' '''LG15'''
**''Release date'': [[October 24]] 2015
**''Accessories:'' Pistol, rifle, two swords, two sais

:Part of the eighth wave of ''[[Transformers Legends (franchise)|Transformers Legends]]'' toys (an assortment of entirely ''Legends''-exclusive female villains), "Nightbird Shadow" is a [[retool]]ing of the running change [[variant]] of ''[[Transformers: Generations (toyline)#T30|Generations: Thrilling 30]]'' Deluxe Class [[Arcee (G1)/toys#Generations|Arcee]] featuring a new head and chest, transforming into a Cybertronian open-top sports car. She includes all four of Arcee's weapons – two swords, a large gun and a small gun – as well as two new sai accessories. All six of her weapons each feature several universally-sized rectangular pegs that allows them to be tabbed into multiple matching ports in her fists, forearms, hips, shoulders, and the sides and rear of her car mode. Additionally, her two guns can store beneath her car mode.

:As a retool of the second version of ''Thrilling 30'' Arcee, Nightbird Shadow uses the "open" hand sculpts, which feature a rim at the bottom of the fist to prevent weapon handles from sliding too far in and potentially getting stuck. Unfortunately, this prevents her from properly holding her blasters and swords, but her new sai weapons sidestep this issue by having narrower sections at the end of the handles that can slide past the rims inside the hands, allowing Nightbird to wield the weapons properly if the sais' side tabs are pointed inwards.

:[[Stock photography]] promoting the figure depicted the sai accessories as painted plastic, but they are rendered in translucent yellow on the final production figure. These photos also lack the Decepticon symbol on her car-mode hood.

: Her name is a reference to the Japanese title of her debut cartoon episode: "The Shadow of Nightbird" (ナイトバードの影).
{{GenerationsArceeMold}}
{{--}}

===''Generations Selects''===
[[File:TF-Generations-WFC-S-Deluxe-Nightbird.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|''Are wa Nan-nan ja? Nan ja? Nan ja? Nin-ninja, ninja ninja Kakuranger, ninja ninja Ninja Sentai Kakuranger!'']]
*'''Nightbird''' (Deluxe Class, [[2019]])
**''Series'': '''''War for Cybertron: Siege'''''
**''Hasbro ID number:'' '''WFC-GS07'''
**''TakaraTomy release date:'' [[September 7]], 2019
**''Accessories:'' "Venomizer Blaster", "Nightshock Baton", 2 "Flash Grenades"
{{toydesigner|[[AJ Piejko-Brown]] (packaging)}}

: A ''[[Generations Selects (toyline)|Generations Selects]]'' add-on to ''[[War for Cybertron: Siege|Siege]]'', Nightbird is a redeco and new head retool of [[Chromia (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Chromia]], transforming into a Cybertronian car. Like Chromia, Nightbird includes a gun compatible with the [[C.O.M.B.A.T. System]]. Two grenades can connect to the barrel, and the scope can be detached and can extend the barrel as well, allowing you to change the length of the barrel and/or scope. The grenades can also attach to the back of the vehicle, as if they are big exhaust pipes. Hasbro stock photography also suggests plugging one grenade into the pegged end of the silencer and the other into the underside of Nightbird's hand, creating the appearance of some sort of small staff to make up for her otherwise notable lack of melee weaponry. The instructions instead suggest connecting the two grenades together, then pegging the silencer on top to make a rather bottom-heavy baton. The arrangement can be reversed to make a mace. Unlike most ''Siege'' figures, Nightbird is basically spotless, with no battle damage paint applications anywhere on her body. She also features multiple hardpoints all over herself and her weapon to accommodate "Fire Blasts" from the [[Battle Master]]s assortment, which can be used to simulate blaster fire or explosions.

:Despite Nightbird sharing a similar transformation scheme with the ''[[Power of the Primes (toyline)|Power of the Primes]]'' [[Moonracer (G1)|Moonracer]]/[[Firestar (G1)|Novastar]] mold, the Chromia/Nightbird mold is ''mostly'' unique, save for the wheels, thighs and hip [[ball joint]] sockets.

: Some copies of Nightbird seem to suffer from either mold degradation or poor quality control, with exceptionally tight peg holes, loose joints, and excess plastic. Sometimes the extra plastic is simply extra flash near molding lines from the [[sprue]] which hasn't been removed, while other times it's in more problematic spots like the opening around the peg holes on the grenades. Others have reported figures arriving broken or breaking after transforming it for the first time.

: The [[Stock photography|stock photos]] on the Hasbro Pulse website show the vehicle mode mistransformed. One has the robot mode feet exposed in vehicle mode, neglecting to fold out the front panel to cover them. The other shows the grenades/tail pipes at a very high angle, meaning the head is not rotated completely backward. This one also shows the silencer piece attached to the ''side'' of the blaster, which is possible but not intentional as the hole that allows this is a different shape and much longer than the notch.

:This toy was released exclusively through [[Hasbro Pulse]] and other online retailers in North America, and [[TakaraTomy Mall]] in Japan. It was also available at general retail in Singapore.

:This mold was further retooled to make ''[[Transformers: Legacy (toyline)|Legacy]]'' [[Kaskade|Ascenticon Kaskade]].

{{--}}

=== ''Masterpiece'' ===
[[File:TF-Masterpiece-MP-55-Nightbird.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|"You gave her ''rocket launchers?!''" "Look, it's harder to build a robot without them, okay? They're load-bearing."]]
*'''Nightbird Shadow''' ([[February 28]], [[2022]])
**''TakaraTomy ID number'': '''MP-55'''
**''Hasbro ID number'': '''MP-51+'''
**''Accessories'': 2 swords, 2 sais, 2 [[lightsaber]] handles, 2 lightsaber blades, 2 shuriken, 2 guns,2 mouthplates, 3 [[Fire Blast effect]]s, holster, alternate face

:''[[Masterpiece]]'' Nightbird is a retool of ''Masterpiece'' [[Arcee (G1)/toys#Masterpiece|Arcee]], transforming into a Cybertronic car. In addition to recolors of the two small guns, three blast effects, and holster that were among the accessories included with Arcee, Nightbird comes with a veritable arsenal of new weapons: two lightsabers with removable blades, two sai, two shuriken (all drawn from the original cartoon), and two swords based on those which came with the ''Legends'' figure. Nightbird's mouthplate can be removed to reveal her full face, and she also comes with an additional unmasked face (complete with molded anime-esque sweatdrop) inspired by [[LG-15 Nightbird Shadow Sequel|her appearance in the ''Legends'' comic]] that is also compatible with the mouthplate.

:Amusingly, Nightbird's [[instructions]] depict an ''official "swan mode"'' directly based on the aforementioned ''Legends'' comic episode. And yes, it's just as ridiculous as it was in the comic.
:*[[Source:The Transformers: Masterpiece#MP-55 Destron Ninja Nightbird Shadow|''Masterpiece'' Nightbird Shadow bio translation]]
{{--}}

==Merchandise==
===''Transformers Trading Card Game''===
[[File:W4PNightbird.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
*'''Nightbird, Enigmatic Agent''' (2019)
**'''Wave 4P: War for Cybertron: Siege II'''
**''Rarity: '''''RT'''
**''Card Number: '''''P7/2019'''
**''Stars: ''7
:'''Nightbird, Enigmatic Agent''' was released as an in-store play promo for the Transformers Trading Card Game's Wave 4: War for Cybertron: Siege II release.
{{--}}

==Notes==
*Nightbird's gadgets to benefit humanity include: {{w|nunchaku}} (unused), a pair of {{w|Sai (weapon)|''sai'' daggers}} (also unused), a wrist-mounted grappling hook, magnetic feet (they also work on rocks!), fist-replacing sawblades, {{w|Metsubushi|some kind of spin/make bright light/disappear gimmick}}, an endless supply of hip-stored energized [[shuriken]], a beam saber, another unused weapon the hilt of which is visible on her "backpack", a glowing magnetic [[tractor beam]], and stereo speaker-nullifying metal donuts. Additionally, she vanishes after jumping over a cliff edge, leading Mirage to wonder if she has the power of invisibility.
*The Nightbirds in ''The Wreckers'' comic have four different accent colors, the same colors as the bandanas of the {{w|Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles}}.
*Nightbird was featured among the Decepticon forces on the [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] [[20th Anniversary Lithograph]].
*A screencap of Nightbird was used to represent the [[Nightracer (G1)|Nightracer]] in the comic story "[[A Flash Forward, Part 2]]" since her head was a close fit and the art style matched the images of other Decepticons next to her. According to [[Pete Sinclair]] and [[Jesse Wittenrich]], the image wasn't supposed to be recognizable as Nightbird once it was obscured by [[Sky-Byte (RID)|Sky-Byte]], but either Sky-Byte didn't cover her up in a way that would obscure her enough, or maybe we're just that good. She's not intended to be the same character as Nightbird.
*Nightbird’s appearance in the Velocitron Speedia 500 manga seems to be loosely based on [[Studio Series|Studio Series]] [[Arcee (G1)/toys#Studio Series|Arcee]]

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Nightbird''' (ナイトバード ''Naitobādo'')
*''French:'' '''Oiseau de Nuit''' (Europe, "Nightbird")
*''Italian:'' '''Ninja'''
*''Mandarin:'' '''Yèyīng''' (China, 夜莺, "Nightingale"), '''Yèniǎo''' (Taiwan, 夜鳥, "Nightbird")
*''Russian:'' '''Golubka''' (Голубка, "Dove")
*''Spanish:'' '''Ave Nocturna''' (Latin America, "Nightbird")

[[Category:Assassins]]
[[Category:Caminus]]
[[Category:Cityspeakers]]
[[Category:Female Transformers]]
[[Category:Generation 1 cartoon Decepticons]]
[[Category:Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category:Generation 1 Decepticons]]
[[Category:Generation 1 Mercenaries]]
[[Category:Generations Selects Decepticons]]
[[Category:Generations Selects toy Decepticons]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) Transformers]]
[[Category:Kreons]]
[[Category:Kre-O Decepticons]]
[[Category:Legends Decepticons]]
[[Category:Man-made Transformers]]
[[Category:Mass-produced Transformers]]
[[Category:Ninjas]]
[[Category:Robots]]
[[Category:Second Cybertron Alliance]]
[[Category:TakaraTomy Mall exclusives]]
[[Category:Universe characters]]
[[Category:War for Cybertron: Siege Decepticons]]

Jawbreaker (ES)

2023-08-23T04:13:28Z

Warpshard: Added a link to the caption mentioning the Giant Purple Griffin.

{{factions|terran}}
{{disambig3|Jawbreaker}}
:''Jawbreaker is a [[Terran]] from the [[Transformers: EarthSpark (franchise)|EarthSpark]] [[continuity family]].''

[[File:ESJawbreaker-stock.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.5|If I had a nickel for every time a Transformer turned into an obsolete pachycephalosaur genus, I'd have... three nickels. Which isn't a lot, but it's weird that it's happened [[Vertebreak (Kingdom)|three]] [[Dracodon|times]].]]

'''Jawbreaker Malto''' lives up to his name in both senses of the word: although he's the strongest of all the [[Terran]]s, he's a soft-spoken, big-hearted 'bot who's as sweet as the candy he's named after. Despite his raw physical power, Jawbreaker sometimes struggles with his own self-confidence—he worries easily, gets flustered under pressure, and sometimes has trouble standing up for himself.

It took Jawbreaker longer than all of his other siblings to settle on a suitable [[alternate mode]]. His ''Stygimoloch'' form might be the most unusual shape of the bunch, but mastering this hard-headed shape has given Jawbreaker the confidence boost he needs to become a truly effective warrior. Fast, powerful, and difficult to stop, Jawbreaker has a lot in common with his [[beast mode]] template: he'll fight fiercely to protect his "herd", but in the end he'd much rather enjoy some downtime with his friends and family.

{{TOCclear}}
==Fiction==
===''EarthSpark'' cartoon===
{{voiceactor|[[Cyrus Arnold]] (English)|[[Fidel Garriga]] (Latin-American Spanish), [[Bruno Tarta]] (Brazilian Portuguese), [[Marc Schülert]] (German)}}

[[File:Jawbreaker protoformbody AgeOfEvolution.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.5]]
Jawbreaker was first brought to life at the same as his other siblings [[Nightshade (ES)|Nightshade]] and [[Hashtag (ES)|Hashtag]] by the Malto siblings [[Mo Malto|Mo]] and [[Robby Malto|Robby]] via the [[Emberstone]] in the same cave where their other [[Terran]] siblings, [[Twitch]] and [[Thrash (ES)|Thrash]], were first created. The otherwise happy moment was interrupted by a cave-in caused by a battle on the outside of the cave between [[Optimus Prime (ES)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Bumblebee (ES)|Bumblebee]] against the [[Decepticon]] [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]], [[Skywarp (ES)|Skywarp]] and [[Nova Storm (ES)|Nova Storm]]. {{storylink|Age of Evolution, Part 1}} Despite being only a few seconds old, Jawbreaker and the other new Terrans instinctually came to their new family's rescue by shielding them from the collapsing cave rubble.

Emerging from the collapsed cave, he was warmly greeted by legendary Optimus who inquired about Jawbreaker and his siblings' names. Stuck at a loss, Mo used her connection via her [[cyber-sleeve]] to inform everyone that his name was Jawbreaker, like her favorite candy which the burly Terran seemed to be delighted by. Sensing the pain the other Maltos and Terrans felt about learning their [[Dot Malto|mother]] was held captive by someone called [[Mandroid]], Jawbreaker volunteered to help rescue them. While infiltrating Mandroid's base with Nightshade and Hashtag by posing as Decepticons who captured Optimus, Jawbreaker inadvertently helped expose their ruse when Mandroid noticed the Decepticon insignia stickers he had were peeling off. A battle erupted that saw Mandroid's base turn into a walking mech that required the combined efforts of Malto family and their allies to take down. Jawbreaker aiding Mo in taking out the Mech's cameras that allowed Mandroid to see. Following the battle, Jawbreaker was formally introduced to Dot and welcomed into her family. {{storylink|Age of Evolution, Part 2}}

[[File:MegatronAndJawbreakerChat Outtakes.jpg|thumb|left|300px|"So how was the [[Giant Purple Griffin|giant purple griffin]] going to win the war for you?" "Shut up."]]
Now a part of the Malto family, Jawbreaker was, unlike Nightshade and Hashtag, eager to acquire an alt-mode but wanted to make sure it was perfect like his mentor, Bumblebee's. {{storylink|Hashtag: Oops}} Fretting over how to pick the right alt-mode, Jawbreaker attempted to interview others on how they got theirs through the form of a video interview. Though he soon found his quest usurped by Hashtag when she offered to help and turned the project more into an attempt to make a movie than help Jawbreaker. When taken to speak with [[Megatron (ES)|Megatron]] and [[Elita-1 (ES)|Elita-1]] about how they got their alt-modes, Jawbreaker finally found some of the guidance he was looking for. Lamenting he didn't feel vehicles were right for him, he got his worldview expanded when Elita revealed to him Transformers could scan more than just vehicles. Jawbreaker then finally confronted Hashtag over her hijacking of his documentary for which she apologized. Later that night, Jawbreaker cobbled together a movie made out of Hashtag's footage that they watched at family movie night with Jawbreaker promising his sister she'd be the first to know when he gets an alt-mode. {{storylink|Outtakes}}

When the reclusive Decepticon scientist, [[Tarantulas (ES)|Tarantulas]], kidnapped [[Dot Malto|Dot]] and [[Alex Malto]], Jawbreaker arrived on scene shortly after his parents were rescued by Nightshade. {{storylink|Missed Connection}} Jawbreaker, along with the rest of his siblings, found himsel inadvertently trapped in the [[dugout]] when security measures installed by Nightshade and Hashtag went into effect when [[Jon Schloder|Agent Schloder]] arrived at the Malto farm. This made him and the others unable to help Dot and Alex as they tried to keep Bumblebee from getting arrested by [[G.H.O.S.T.]] {{storylink|Security Protocols}}

On Mother's Day, Jawbreaker found himself spending his first day experiencing the holiday being chased by a mutated mother bear looking for her cub that Twitch had kidnapped. As he fled, he lamented that the bear went after the one Terran who didn't have an alt-mode. {{storylink|Bear Necessities}}

Jawbreaker and the rest of the Malto children were taken to [[Spacebridge Memorial Park]] by Megatron, where he attempted to give them a history lesson on the Autobot/Decepticon War and the importance the Terrans represented. They found their nighttime history lesson interrupted by the return of [[Shockwave (ES)|Shockwave]]. Jawbreaker, along with Twitch and Hashtag, found themselves forced into stasis thanks to a shot from the Immobilizer by Shockwave intended for Megatron. When Megatron finally bested his former lieutenant, Jawbreaker was freed. {{storylink|Warzone}}

[[File:JawbreakerAndBeeReunite HomePar1.jpg|thumb|right|300px]]
When taken, along with the rest of the Terrans, by Robby and Mo to [[Philadelphia]] for the first time, Jawbreaker's good time at experiencing city-life took a sour turn when he, Thrash, and Mo found themselves tricked into entering an underground Bot Brawl fighting ring. Initially pleased when his first opponent turned out to be an undercover Bumblebee, the two found themselves having to face down the mind-controlled Dinobot, [[Grimlock (ES)|Grimlock]]. Working together, with Thrash and Mo, the group were able to free Grimlock from his mind control though they had to quickly depart as the Dinobot quickly went on a fire-breathing berserker rampage, deciding to let him cool off. Reuniting with the rest of his siblings, Jawbreaker eagerly volunteered to go back to with Bumblebee to rescue Grimlock. {{storylink|Home, Part 1}}

The search for Grimlock however soon turned into a battle with the returning Mandroid. After taking down one of Mandroid's newest Arachnamech creations, Jawbreaker and the rest of their family soon found themselves having to fight their brained-controlled sister Hashtag. Hesitant at fighting their sister, they group found themmselves outmatched by her size and Wi-fi powers. They were all able free their her when they were empowered by a mysterious energy that originated back from the cave where the Terrans were born. With their sister freed, Jawbreaker and the others raced back to Witwicky in hopes of getting home before their parents woke up. {{storylink|Home, Part 2}}

{{ongoing}}

==Toys==
===''EarthSpark''===
[[File:ES-toy Jawbreaker Warrior.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|I can let you in on a little secret: being an awesome wrestler has nothing to do with awesome wrestling moves! It's all about awesome costumes, gimmicks, and dinosaur tranquilizer fueled ranting and raving!]]
<ul class="iconlist">{{Bp-a1|'''Terran Jawbreaker''' (Warrior, [[2023]])}}</ul>

: Released as part of the third wave of ''[[Transformers: EarthSpark (toyline)| EarthSpark]]'' Warrior Class figures, Jawbreaker is a Deluxe Class-sized figure that transforms into a robotic ''Stygimoloch''. His right forearm hides a flip-out, non-removable blaster weapon under the gunmetal panel.

: This figure was listed on French toy website "joueclub.fr", prior to any official announcement by Hasbro.

==Notes==
* As with [[Vertebreak (Kingdom)|previous]] [[Dracodon|Transformers]] who turn into members of the Pachycephalosauria, the status of ''Stygimoloch'' as a valid genus has been debated, with it being argued to actually just be a misclassified juvenile ''{{w|Pachycephalosaurus}}''.
===Foreign names===
*''Hungarian:'' '''Nyelvtörő''' ("Tongue-Twister")

[[Category:Terrans]]

Transformers: Reactivate

2023-08-13T01:45:21Z

Warpshard: /* Notes */ Added a link to the cover of Wanted Dead or Alive.

{{videogame
|title=''Transformers: Reactivate''
|japanese=
|image= Transformers Reactivate Logo.png
|caption={{w|Terminator Salvation|We Fight Back}}.
|prev=
|next=
|developer=[[Splash Damage]]
|publisher=
|date=TBC
|platform=PC, consoles
}}

'''''Transformers: Reactivate''''' is an upcoming online multiplayer game developed by [[Splash Damage]].

It was announced on [[December 8]], 2022 at The Game Awards via a teaser trailer that doesn't tell us a whole lot about the play style. A closed beta is planned for [[2023]]. Like some of the [[Transformers: Earth Wars|previous]] [[Transformers: Battle Tactics|games]], ''Reactivate'' will also utilize microtransactions for in-game purchases.

==Plot==
[[File: Transformers Reactivate screenshot20220812 05.jpeg|upright=1.4|thumb|"We can rebuild him."]]

Per the official site, "The gravest threat to [[human]]ity has arrived. And it's already won. [[Earth]] is no longer ours; it belongs to them. All we have left is our hope for the [[Autobot]]s, as we salvage them from the rubble left behind."

Social media pages for the game tell fans to "fight back against the [[Legion (Reactivate)|Legion]]", indicating the name of the game's alien occupiers.

==Featured characters==
[[File: Transformers Reactivate screenshot20220812 06.jpeg|upright=1.4|thumb|You are a Transformer!]]
{{stub}}

==Notes==
* ''Transformers: Reactivate'' was previously known as ''Transformers: Rise'' while being developed by Certain Affinity.
* The teaser trailer featured a cover of {{w|Bon Jovi}}'s "{{w|Wanted Dead or Alive (Bon Jovi song)|Wanted Dead or Alive}}", performed by [[Empara Mi]] and [[dreamchild]]. You can listen to the cover of the song [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9uyAVi9wWc here.]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* [https://www.playtfr.com/ Official website]
* [https://www.tiktok.com/@playtfr Tiktok page]
* [https://twitter.com/PlayTFR Twitter page]
* [https://www.instagram.com/playtfr/ Instagram page]
* [https://www.youtube.com/@PlayTFR YouTube page]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Reactivate}}
[[Category:video games]]

File:Astoria strength.JPG

2023-07-28T01:54:16Z

Warpshard: Fixed misspelling of Cybertronian

{{G1cap|[[Astoria]] tears a Cybertronian metal cover off with her bare hands. ''Wow.''|The Girl Who Loved Powerglide|5}}

File:Broadsidecrushesdevastator.jpg

2023-06-16T03:20:37Z

Warpshard: Calling the insignia Shattered Glass would imply it was intentional when it was just one of the cavalcade of animation errors in this episode. Also tweaked wording

{{G1cap|[[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]] (with a incorrectly colored purple Autobot insignia) drops onto and crushes [[Devastator (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Devastator]] while in aircraft carrier mode. |Carnage in C-Minor|6}}

Talk:Flip Sides (G1)

2023-06-03T21:33:25Z

Warpshard: /* Phobia of bots with 2+ legs? */

==Name==
If the way this article is written is correct, she's called Flip Sides in her e-Hobby bio, but Flipsides in Wings. However, e-Hobby is Japan-only, and this wiki uses American names where they exist. Does that mean this article should be moved to "Flipsides"? --[[User:Flicky1991|Flicky1991]] 09:41, 28 January 2013 (EST)
:Very late response, but jotting down this note for posterity that page 281 of ''Legacy'' spells her name as two words, "Flip Sides", for what that is worth. [[User:S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent 47|S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent 47]] ([[User talk:S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent 47|talk]]) 15:17, 7 June 2021 (EDT)

== Phobia of bots with 2+ legs? ==

The only citation I can find for the factoid at the end of her profile description points to her bio in the Collector's Edition, but the transcription of her bio on TFU.net (as well as TFW2005) shows nothing of the sort, and I doubt both descriptions would be wrong. Does anyone have an actual citation for this, or is it just a random addition? [[User:Warpshard|Warpshard]] ([[User talk:Warpshard|talk]]) 16:44, 3 June 2023 (EDT)
:It's from a longer version that was published online. See here: https://www.soundwavesoblivion.com/techspecs/techsehobbyexclusives.html [[User:Escargon|Escargon]] ([[User talk:Escargon|talk]]) 17:28, 3 June 2023 (EDT)
::Awesome, thank you! Just want to make sure stuff's all it's supposed to be. [[User:Warpshard|Warpshard]] ([[User talk:Warpshard|talk]]) 17:33, 3 June 2023 (EDT)

Talk:Flip Sides (G1)

2023-06-03T20:49:08Z

Warpshard:

Talk:Flip Sides (G1)

2023-06-03T20:44:06Z

Warpshard: /* Phobia of bots with 2+ legs? */ new section

==Name==
If the way this article is written is correct, she's called Flip Sides in her e-Hobby bio, but Flipsides in Wings. However, e-Hobby is Japan-only, and this wiki uses American names where they exist. Does that mean this article should be moved to "Flipsides"? --[[User:Flicky1991|Flicky1991]] 09:41, 28 January 2013 (EST)
:Very late response, but jotting down this note for posterity that page 281 of ''Legacy'' spells her name as two words, "Flip Sides", for what that is worth. [[User:S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent 47|S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent 47]] ([[User talk:S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent 47|talk]]) 15:17, 7 June 2021 (EDT)

== Phobia of bots with 2+ legs? ==

The only citation I can find for the factoid at the end of her profile description points to her bio in the Collector's Edition, but the transcription of her bio on TFU.net shows nothing of the sort, and I doubt their description would be wrong. Does anyone have an actual citation for this, or is it just a random addition? [[User:Warpshard|Warpshard]] ([[User talk:Warpshard|talk]]) 16:44, 3 June 2023 (EDT)

Optimus Prime (G1)/gallery

2023-05-11T06:46:21Z

Warpshard: /* Other media */ Fixing capitalization on Evergreen when referring to the design of a character.

{{suite}}

==Sunbow cartoon==
<gallery>
File:G1OptimusPrimeStockFootage.jpg
</gallery>

===Japanese G1 media===
<gallery>
File:Starconvoy magami.jpg
File:Nucleon Quest Super Convoy packaging art.jpg
File:BlasterG2.jpg
File:G2 manga hero prime.jpg
File:G2PrimeJustice.jpg
</gallery>

==Marvel Comics continuity==
<gallery>
File:PowerPlay-Optimustransforms.jpg
File:Fortmaxboat.jpg|Powermaster body
File:RageInHeaven-HeroPrime.jpg
File:Classicscomicautobots.jpg|''Classics''
</gallery>

==''Beast Wars''==
<gallery>
File:G1Prime BWMegs.jpg
</gallery>

==Dreamwave continuity==
<gallery>
File:Optronix optimus.jpg
File:DWPrimeDirective6 Autobots wanttheirheads.jpg
</gallery>

==2005 IDW continuity==
<gallery>
File:ChaosTheory2 sorry bunch.jpg
File:SLOrionPax new body.jpg
File:Infiltration6 - OptimusPrime Earth mode.jpg
File:TFvol1 9cvrRI.jpg
File:Optimus Prime-Andrew Griffith-RiDS2.jpg
File:FutureGloriesLost-KnightTemplarPrime.jpg
</gallery>

==2019 IDW continuity==
<gallery>
File:TheWorldInYourEyesPart4-OrionPax.jpg
File:SeaOfRustPartII-Altmodes.jpg
</gallery>

==''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' cartoon==
<gallery>
File:EarthriseEpisode2-OptimusPrime.jpg
File:SiegeEp5PrimeTeamIntoSeaofRust.jpg
</gallery>

==Other media==
<gallery>
File:WarWithin-Optimus-Original-Design.jpg
File:Opthos.jpg
File:TFInfestation2.2 Optimus Prime vs Elder God.jpg|''Hearts of Steel''
File:Alternity convoy boxart.jpg|''Alternity'' Vibrant Red
File:OptimusPrime-EarthWars.jpg|''Earth Wars''
File:Laser-Optimus-Earth-Wars.jpg|''Earth Wars'' Laser Optimus
File:Quidd-evergreen-Optimus Prime-robot-mode.jpg|[[Evergreen]] [[Quidd]] sticker
</gallery>

[[Category:Galleries]]

File:Armada Omnibus-2016.jpg

2023-04-21T17:13:57Z

Warpshard: Wrong team name used, should be Land Military.

{{DreamwaveUT
|description=As [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] beats down [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Prime]] with the [[Star Saber (Armada)|Star Saber]], [[Sparkplug (Armada)|Sparkplug]] unsuccessfully tries to enlist the [[Land Military Mini-Con Team]]'s help.
{{art|pencils=[[Guido Guidi]]|colors=[[Josh Perez]]}}
|series=armada
|TPB=Omnibus TPB (2016 reissue)
|year=16}}
[[Category:Images by Guido Guidi]]
[[Category:Images by Josh Perez]]
[[Category:IDW comic covers]]

Destruction Mini-Con Team

2023-04-21T17:08:15Z

Warpshard: /* Armada */ Fixing some wording on description for Destruction Team

{{Factions|minicon}}
{{disambig2|the Mini-Con Team|the Bruticus Maximus combiner team|Destruction Team}}
[[File:Bios card destruction.jpg|upright=1.4|thumb|We hate EVERYBODY.]]
The '''Destruction Mini-Con Team''' do not play well with others. Though their destructive capabilities land them in the hands of the [[Decepticon]]s more often than not, they despise all [[Bulk]]s, and are fierce in their goal of [[Mini-Con]] independence. So fierce that they are willing to sacrifice anyone, even their own, for their goal.

They are also sometimes known as the '''Road Wrecker Team'''.

The Destruction Mini-Con Team is composed of...

*[[Buzzsaw (Armada)|Buzzsaw]] the bucket-wheel excavator.
*[[Drill Bit (Armada)|Drill Bit]] the tunneling machine.
*[[Dualor (Armada)|Dualor]] the Gepard anti-aircraft tank.

==Fiction==
===''Armada'' cartoon===
The Destruction team acted as a full team for the first time in a plan set up by [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]]. They sent a signal to the [[Earth]]-bound Mini-Cons and later helped Megatron lead the Autobots on a chase while teleporting. They fired at [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] until a decided moment and then turned their attack on Megatron, defecting to the Autobot side. {{storylink|Vow}}
{{groupstub|{{storylink|Union}}}}

===Dreamwave ''Armada'' comic===
[[File:Armada10 DestructionTeamRad.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|right]]
Drill Bit and the rest of the Destruction Team ''appeared'' to have been among the many Mini-Cons that were captured, experimented on, and enslaved by the [[Decepticon]]s during the attack on [[Cyber City]], and as such didn't get to evacuate [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] alongside most other Mini-Cons. {{storylink|Dreamwave Armada issue 2|Armada #2}} Thankfully, this wasn't really the case, as they were on the [[Exodus (Armada)|escape vessel]] when it crashed on [[Earth]]'s [[Moon (moon)|moon]]. Led by [[Dualor (Armada)|Dualor]], the Mini-Cons on the Moon constructed a [[Mini-Con Moonbase|fortress base]] where they could live in peace, then summoned the Mini-Cons on Earth to join them. {{storylink|Dreamwave Armada issue 9|Armada #9}} To deter the [[Autobot]]s from trying to rescue their friends, they stuffed [[Rad White]] into an orbital mine to keep them from attacking the moonbase. While overseeing the defenses during the Decepticons' inevitable assault, [[Leader-1 (Armada)|Leader-1]] suddenly attacked them. {{storylink|Dreamwave Armada issue 10|Armada #10}} The Destruction Team were knocked unconscious and were helpless to resist when [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] showed up and captured them. {{storylink|Dreamwave Armada issue 11|Armada #11}}

The Destruction Team didn't give up so easily, though. By activating a failsafe program, they overloaded the Decepticons with power and saved themselves from being used against their will. This allowed Dualor to strike a deal with Megatron: They'd lend the Decepticons their strength in exchange for some degree of leadership. Megatron accepted and handed them to [[Cyclonus (Armada)|Cyclonus]], whom they promptly drove insane with power anyway. {{storylink|Fire & Ice}} Megatron mused that he knew that the Mini-Cons would betray him, then retrieved them alongside the unconscious Cyclonus. {{storylink|Dreamwave Armada issue 13|Armada #13}}

The Destruction Team were subsequently punished via [[Punishment Cube]]. {{storylink|Worlds Collide, Part 1 of 4}} They were not among the Decepticon-held Mini-Cons released to join the fight against [[Unicron]]. Megatron was vague on their fate, simply saying that the Decepticons were "better off without them". {{storylink|The End (Armada)|The End}}

===Panini ''Armada'' comic===
{{groupstub|}}

==Toys==
===''Armada''===
[[File:Armada-toy Destruction-Mini-Con-Team.JPG|thumb|upright=1.67]]
*'''Destruction Mini-Con Team''' (Basic, 2002/2003)
**''Takara ID number:'' '''MM-04'''
**''Takara release date'': [[December 26]] 2002

: The Destruction Mini-Con Team ([[Buzzsaw (Armada)#Toys|Buzzsaw]], [[Drill Bit (Armada)#Toys|Drill Bit]], and [[Dualor (Armada)#Toys|Dualor]]) are a trio of tiny vehicles intended to, well, destroy stuff. As Mini-Cons, each one has a [[Powerlinx]] socket that allows them to attach to larger toys with compatible plugs, activating play [[gimmick]]s on "live" plugs. Each toy also features a gear-wheel system that causes their built-in weapon to "activate" when they roll in [[alternate mode|vehicle mode]]. They can also be attached to the underside of the ''Armada'' [[Cyclonus (Armada)#Toys|Cyclonus]] mold, interacting with the Decepticon’s gear-wheel rotor system so their action gimmick moves as Cyclonus's rotor-trigger is pulled.

: This version of the Team was nominally available as a three-pack, sold in the second wave of [[Hasbro]]'s ''[[Transformers: Armada (toyline)| Armada]]'' line, and in the first wave of [[TakaraTomy|Takara]]'s ''[[Transformers: Armada (toyline)#Takara Legends of the Microns toyline|Legend of the Microns]]'' line. The Hasbro three-pack may have been added to various probably-randomized "Bonus Buy" sets clamshelled with other toys in the line sold through various retailers; we say "may have been" because there were a ''lot'' of these clamshelled sets but we have not yet confirmed samples with the Destruction Team specifically.

: This mold-set was also used to make the [[Steel Reinforcement Team|Megalo Micron]]s and the [[Exploration Mini-Con Team]].

{{-}}{{anchor|Sandstorm}}
*'''Sandstorm & Destruction Micron''' (Multi-pack, 2002)
**''ID number:'' '''MS-04'''
**''Release date'': [[December 26]] 2002

: The entire Team was also included in a Takara multi-pack with [[Cyclonus (Armada)#Toys|Cyclonus]] and his partner Mini-Con [[Crumplezone (Armada)#Toys|Crumplezone]]. Each toy is identical to their individual Takara releases.

{{-}}{{anchor|Exdimensions}}
[[File:2003-destructionmicron-xdimension-toys.jpg|thumb|upright=1.67|]]
*'''Destruction Micron Exdimensions''' (Basic, 2003)
**''ID number:'' '''MM-09'''
**''Release date'': [[December 26]] 2002

: A somewhat more limited-edition—but still regular retail—[[redeco]] of the Destruction Team was released by [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] as part of the [[Exdimensions]] series. This version of the team was decoed in primarily orange with varying shades of desaturated blue.

: The packaging is nearly identical to the original Takara three-pack, showing the Team in their original colors in both art and photography; the Team name is now in silver foil and marked with "Exdimensions" (エクスディメンションズ ''Ekusudimenshonzu'') underneath.

: This deco was [[repurposing|repurposed]] as the [[Heavy Machinery Mini-Con Team]].

{{-}}{{anchor|Undergrove}}
[[File:Arm-toy Dualor Undergrove.jpg|upright=1.67|thumb|Duster Undergrove Edition]]
*'''Crush Undergrove Edition''' (Promotional Mini-Con, 2003)
*'''Duster Undergrove Edition''' (Promotional Mini-Con, 2003)
*'''Wheel Undergrove Edition''' (Promotional Mini-Con, 2003)
**''Release date'': [[January 1]] 2003

: [[Exclusive]] to Ito Yokaido stores in Japan, one member of the "Undergrove Edition" Destruction Team was given at random as a [[campaign item|promotional giveaway]] to customers who bought [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/toys#Armada|MC-01 Convoy Super Mode]] throughout January (until they ran out of them), though reportedly some stores gave one away with any ''Legends of the Microns'' purchase. This iteration of the Team was cast in various earth tones.

: "Undergrove Edition" was not on the instructions packed in with the toys; the name was ultimately revealed in the "Micron Museum" portion of Takara's ''Legends of the Microns'' website on [[July 18]]th that year.

{{-}}{{anchor|White}}
[[File:Arm-toy BuzzsawWhite.jpg|right|thumb|upright=1.67|Buzzsaw White Micron]]
*'''Crush White Micron''' (Promotional Mini-Con, 2003)
*'''Duster White Micron''' (Promotional Mini-Con, 2003)
*'''Wheel White Micron''' (Promotional Mini-Con, 2003)
**''Release date'': [[April 26]] 2003

: As part of the "Golden Week" holiday, Japanese "[[TF Station]]" affiliate stores gave out solid-white versions of the Destruction Team at a limit of one per customer.

: In some stores, these pieces were given out with the intent of being used in "paint your own" in-store events.

{{-}}{{anchor|SpaceGalaxy}}
[[File:Arm-toy DrillBitSG.jpg|upright=1.67|right|thumb|Stupid expensive. And we do mean stupid.]]
*'''Crush Space Galaxy Edition''' (Mini-Con pack-in, 2003)
*'''Duster Space Galaxy Edition''' (Mini-Con pack-in, 2003)
*'''Wheel Space Galaxy Edition''' (Mini-Con pack-in, 2003)
**''Release date'': [[May 1]] 2003

: In May, [[AEON|JUSCO]] stores in Japan got in special versions of [[Optimus Prime (Armada)#|Convoy Super Mode]] that contained one member of the "Space Galaxy Edition" Destruction Team per box... but the bonus Mini-Cons were [[blindpacking|blind-packed]] ''inside'' the boxes.

: Yes, you read that correctly. Blind-packed inside the most expensive toy in the line (at the time).

: As such, this version of the Team is among the most expensive of the promotional Mini-Cons on the secondary market.

{{-}}{{anchor|RoadWrecker}}
[[File:Armada_toy_roadwreckerteam_vehicle.jpg|thumb]]
*'''Road Wrecker Mini-Con Team''' (Basic, 2003)

: Released in the sixth wave of ''Armada'' Mini-Con three-packs, a green-and-gray redeco of the Destruction Team was put out under a new Team name, but as the same individual characters.

: This set was released under the ''Unicron Battles'' branding, hyping up the release of the giant [[Unicron/toys#Armada|Unicron]] toy.

{{-}}{{anchor|Predacon}}
*'''Predacon with Side Burn and Skid-Z''' (Bonus Buy pack, 2003)

: The entire Team, in their original colors, was included in a "Bonus Buy" set, in a small bubble added to the top of the normal [[Predacon (Armada)#Toys|Predacon]] box, sold for the price of Predacon alone.

: It is currently unknown what retailer this set was sold through.

{{-}}{{anchor|TRUpackin}}
*'''Blurr with Incinerator and Bonus Mini-Con''' (Bonus pack, 2003)
*'''Sideways with Rook & Crosswise and Bonus Mini-Con''' (Bonus pack, 2003)
**''Release date'': [[November 28]] 2003

: In November of 2003, US [[Toys"R"Us]] stores had special bonus pack Max-Con (Deluxe) toys, which came with a single bonus Mini-Con attached to the card over their sticker, for ''less'' than the price as a normal Max-Con during Toys"R"Us's [[Black Friday (event)|post-Thanksgiving-day]] sale. Each of the original-color Destruction Team Mini-Cons could come packaged with either [[Blurr (Armada)#Toys|Blurr]] or [[Sideways (Armada)#Toys|Sideways]].

{{-}}

===''Energon''===
*'''Road Wrecker Mini-Con Team & Night Attack Mini-Con Team'''

: An unaltered version of the original-deco Destruction Team, yet still called by the "Road Wrecker" name, was released as part of an ''[[Transformers: Energon (franchise)|Energon]]''-series "Mini-Con 6-pack" with the [[Night Attack Mini-Con Team#Toys|Night Attack Mini-Con Team]].

: This pack was a shared exclusive to both Toys"R"Us and [[Walmart]] stores in the US.

==Notes==
* A team of miscolored Mini-Cons based on the Destruction Team in the first two issues of [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]]'s ''Armada'' comic is apparently '''not''' the real Destruction Team; this trio was left behind on Cybertron when everyone else escaped, and never seen again.

* [[Simon Furman]] has said in the [[letters page]] of "[[Multiplicity, Pt. 3]]" that it can be assumed that [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] strapped the Destruction Team to a rocket and fired them into the sun, in regards to their ambiguous fate in the ''Armada'' comic.

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Destruction Micron''' (デストラクションマイクロン ''Desutorakushon Maikuron'')
*''French:'' '''Équipe de Destruction des Minimodus''' ("Destruction Mini-Con Team"), '''Équipe de Démolition Routière des Minimodus''' ("Road Demolition Mini-Con Team")
*''Spanish:'' '''Los Minimodus - Equipo de Destrucción''' ("The Mini-Cons - Destruction Team"), '''Los Minimodus - Equipo Demoledor Terrestre''' ("The Mini-Cons - Ground Demolishing Team")

[[Category:Armada subgroups]]
[[Category:Energon subgroups]]
[[Category:Mini-Con teams]]

File:Armada toy roadwreckerteam vehicle.jpg

2023-04-19T20:37:41Z

Warpshard: Added proper Stock Photo template for Armada, added to proper image categories

Hasbro stock photos of the Armada Road Wrecker Mini-Con Team toy.

{{Armadastock}}
[[Category:Armada Mini-Con toy images]]

Destruction Mini-Con Team

2023-04-19T20:31:14Z

Warpshard: /* Toys */ Added stock photo of Road Wrecker repaint

File:Armada toy roadwreckerteam vehicle.jpg

2023-04-19T20:24:36Z

Warpshard: Hasbro stock photos of the Armada Road Wrecker Mini-Con Team toy. © Hasbro, 2003 {{Toystock}}

Hasbro stock photos of the Armada Road Wrecker Mini-Con Team toy. © Hasbro, 2003

{{Toystock}}

Destruction Mini-Con Team

2023-04-19T20:08:30Z

Warpshard: /* Toys */ Added descriptions for Destruction, Road Wrecker Armada, Road Wrecker Energon releases. Added stub to release with Sandstorm.

Icepick (PCC)

2023-04-01T06:42:00Z

Warpshard: /* Dark of the Moon */ Fixed link on the joke in the caption of the Flash Freeze Assault listing to link to the right toy

{{faction|decepticon|autobot|primusvanguard}}
{{disambig2|the Power Core Combiner|the Monstructor Six member|Icepick (G1)}}
:''Icepick is a [[Decepticon]] from the [[live-action film series]] [[continuity family]] (via the [[Power Core Combiners]] line).''

[[Image:PCC-toy_Icepick.jpg|thumb|300px|Well I've got news for you. I think old people are really boring. And the only reason you don't understand our music is because you don't like it!]]
'''Icepick''' has no respect for his elders. Or, in fact, for anyone less technologically-advanced than himself and his fellow [[combiner]]s. He believes they're fit for the scrap heap, and he's only too happy to send them there himself; outmoded [[Autobot]]s and Decepticons alike had best steer clear of this frigid fanatic.

Later, after his combiner team was destroyed, he desperately sought another partner. He may despise humans greatly, but his alliance with the human traitor, [[Sergeant Chaos]], provides him with the assistance and information he requires. Together, they attacked [[Sideswipe (Movie)|Sideswipe]] on icy roads! However, Chaos isn't his only partner, as he also operates with the Decepticon [[Mini-Con]] [[Chainclaw (PCC)|Chainclaw]] who helps his [[Bulk]] cause massive destruction!

==Fiction==
===Ask Vector Prime===
Sergeant Chaos used to work for [[NEST]] until Icepick headhunted him. Icepick gets Autobot intelligence and Chaos gets to hurt people for money, it's win-win! {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/08/26}}

===Precursor World===
A [[Primus Vanguard|Warrior of the Seven Lights]] resembling Icepick was a member of the [[White Order]] of the [[Primus Vanguard]]. He looked on from his home on the [[White Planet]] as his commander [[White Gallant Convoy]] and his retinue drove by. {{storylink|God Neptune comic 2}}

==Toys==
===''Power Core Combiners''===
*'''Icepick with Chainclaw''' (Commander Class, 2010)
{{toydesigner|[[Eric Siebenaler]] (Hasbro)}}

: Part of the second wave of ''Power Core Combiners'', Icepick transforms into a treaded snow-plow vehicle of probably-made-up model. Unlike most Power Core Combiners Commander figures, Icepick does not have [[5 mm post]] holes in or near his hands to allow him to wield his Mini-Con partner in a gun- or melee-weapon-like manner. He has some sweet claws, though, and the hardpoint on his right shoulder allows him to use a Mini-Con's weapon mode as a shoulder-mounted emplacement. A flip-up [[Powerlinx]] socket on his chest allows him to use [[Mini-Con]]s as armor. He also has a secondary "power up" mode, in which he forms a super robot torso; in this configuration he can use the drone-limbs from any 5-pack set to make a new super-robot.

: He was sold in a set with his Mini-Con partner [[Chainclaw (PCC)|Chainclaw]].

: During the period between 26 December 2010 and 31 January 2011, Hasbro ran their "Supercharge Your Holidays" promotion: for every $20 spent on Hasbro-branded product, customers could receive a free, random product from a list provided by Hasbro. Among the items on the list was "Transformers Combiners & Speed Stars Mini Vehicle". According to [http://www.allspark.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=75487 this discussion thread on Allspark.com], Icepick with Chainclaw was one of the figures distributed.

: This mold was also used to make [[Straxus (G1)|Rollermaster]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2010/Decepticon/Icepick/icepick.htm More information on Icepick at TFU.info]''

*'''Power Core Combiners Special Value Offer''' (2011)

: Icepick was also made available as part of a [[Walmart]]-[[exclusive]] [[Black Friday (event)|Black Friday]] "Value Pack", combining a 5-pack team with a Commander 2-pack via packaging tape and a couple of stickers, for the whopping price of ''ten bucks'', merely a third of what the two toys would normally cost.

: So far, Icepick has been found attached to the [[Grimstone (PCC)|Grimstone]]/[[Dinobot (PCC)|Dinobots]], [[Mudslinger (PCC)|Mudslinger]]/[[Destructicon (PCC)|Destructicons]], and [[Steamhammer (PCC)|Steamhammer]]/[[Constructicon (PCC)|Constructicons]] sets.
{{-}}

===''Dark of the Moon''===
[[Image:DOTM_Icepick_SgtChaos_toy.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Look out for his giant waffle-iron!]]
* '''Sergeant Chaos / Icepick''' (Human Alliance Basic, 2011)
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''DD11'''
**''Accessories'': Left & right blasters

: Part of the first wave of ''[[Transformers: Dark of the Moon (toyline)|Dark of the Moon]]'' [[Human Alliance#Dark of the Moon|Human Alliance Triple Changer]] figures, Icepick has two different alternate modes. He transforms into a snowmobile that any Human Alliance "human" figure can ride, as well as a "hoverbike" mode with a gigantic frickin' chainsaw hanging off the front. This mode can also be used as a weapon by any figure that uses [[5 mm post|5mm peg-holes]]. He comes with two [[c joint]] weapons which can be attached to weapon-mounting bars located on the back and on the skis of the vehicle, which end up near his hands and chest, respectively. His head is rather pointedly based on a hockey goalie's mask, although he does appear to have a 'genuine' face under the transparent purple plastic of his visor. He comes with his human partner [[Sergeant Chaos]]. His 5mm peg has a tiny hole in it which is the exact size to allow a [[Mini-Con]] to combine with him.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2011/Decepticon/Icepick/icepick.htm More information on ''Dark of the Moon'' Icepick at TFU.info]''

{{-}}{{anchor|Flash}}
[[Image:DOTM_FlashFreezeAssault_toys.jpg|thumb|300px|Keeping the time-honored tradition of [[redeco]]ing the snow vehicle [[Cyclonus (Armada)#Universe_.282003.29|black and orange]].]]
*'''Flash Freeze Assault''' (Human Alliance multi-pack, 2011)
**''Accessories'': Left & right blasters

: As part of a [[Kmart]]-[[exclusive]] Human Alliance set featuring Icepick, [[Sergeant Chaos]], and [[Sideswipe (Movie)#Human Alliance 3|Sideswipe]] released in mid-2011, Icepick is now sporting black and orange akin to [[Cyclonus (Armada)#Universe|''Universe'' Snow Cat]], another snow-faring Decepticon.

:He has [[tampograph]]s of the Autobot Alliance symbol as well "Autobot Alliance" written down his sides in vehicle mode, despite still being a Decepticon according to the bio in which he is hunting down Sideswipe with the help of Sergeant Chaos. Of note is Icepick in weapon mode photoshopped over Sideswipe's right hand on the back of the box—with a sticker immediately above stating "SIDESWIPE CANNOT HOLD WEAPON".

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2011/Decepticon/KMIcepick/icepick.htm More information on Flash Freeze Assault Icepick at TFU.info]''
{{--}}

==Notes==
* It's conceivable that ''Power Core Combiners'' Icepick and Chainclaw's names were originally intended to be swapped around. While "Icepick" works about as well for either robot, the Commander ''is'' the one with "chains" (his treads) and claws. "Chainclaw" even would have worked for his ''second'' toy, as a play on his chain''s''aw mode.
* Due to the vague continuity of the ''Power Core Combiners'' line, the case for ''Power Core Combiners'' Icepick and ''[[Transformers: Dark of the Moon (toyline)|Dark of the Moon]]'' Icepick being the same guy was not airtight, and for a time it was possible that the former could have been a new body for [[Icepick (G1)|Generation 1 Icepick]]. The Facebook edition of [[Ask Vector Prime]] eventually confirmed that the toys represented the same type of character (in most universes, anyway).
* Oddly enough, the reference in Icepick's ''Dark of the Moon'' bio to his combiner team being destroyed is also the only place it's ever been mentioned to exist in the first place. It's unclear whether this is an unseen [[Power Core Combination|set of drones]], an equally-unseen [[movie continuity]] counterpart to the [[Pretender Monster]]s, or just some copywriter misremembering which assortment his previous toy was in.

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Icepick''' (アイスピック ''Aisupikku'')

[[Category:Dark of the Moon Autobots]]
[[Category:Dark of the Moon Decepticons]]
[[Category:Human Alliance]]
[[Category:Kmart exclusives]]
[[Category:Power Core Combiners Decepticons]]
[[Category:Triple Changers]]
[[Category:White Order]]

File:Un autorollers.jpg

2023-03-19T05:01:48Z

Warpshard: Redirecting link on Sgt. Hound to G2 section of Hound's toy page

Scan from the [[1995]] Sears Catalogue showing the two unreleased [[Auto Roller (G2)|Auto Roller]]s [[Hound (G1)/toys#Generation_2|Sgt. Hound]] and [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys|General Optimus Prime]].

{{G2stock}}

[[Category:Optimus Prime toy images]]
[[Category: Unreleased toy images]]

Sentient metal

2023-03-04T21:12:17Z

Warpshard: Added to metals category

{{disambig2|the metal Pepsi Convoy is made from|the metal most other Transformers are made of|Living metal}}

'''Sentient metal''' (意志を持った金属 ''ishi o motta kinzoku'') is a kind of metal... which is sentient. It was developed by [[NASA]].

==Fiction==
===Toy bios===
[[Pepsi Convoy]] was created by the [[Autobot]]s with sentient metal. {{storylink|Pepsi Convoy|Pepsi Convoy's bio}}

[[Category:Generation 1 substances]]
[[Category:Metals]]

Sentient metal

2023-03-04T21:03:15Z

Warpshard: Added a disambiguation to redirect to the Living metal article

Talk:Sentient metal

2023-03-04T20:59:25Z

Warpshard: /* Disambiguation with Living metal? */ Removing discussion for redirect

Talk:Sentient metal

2023-03-04T20:47:29Z

Warpshard: /* Untitled */ Added new discussion section for a disambiguation

==Untitled==
Would this be the same (or similar to the) kind of living metal that [[Deathsaurus (G1)|Deszaras']] weapon can destroy? --[[User:Sabrblade|Sabrblade]] 20:27, 4 May 2009 (EDT)
:Well, the "living metal" that Deathsaurus's cannon destroys is the metal of a Transformer's body. This "sentient metal" doesn't seem to be the same thing. Perhaps it's a human invention to try and duplicate Transformer living body - Pepsiman and Pepsi Convoy are both human creations, if I recall right? - [[Special:Contributions/81.157.155.67|81.157.155.67]] 20:53, 4 May 2009 (EDT)

::Sentient metal seems to imply some sort of ductile computronium. -[[User:Derik|Derik]] 22:41, 4 May 2009 (EDT)

==Disambiguation with Living metal?==
As the name and concept are both very similar to the [[Living metal]] article, would a disambiguation/redirect at the top of the page be appropriate to link to the more prominent article, or is it unnecessary? - [[User:Warpshard|Warpshard]] 14:47, 4 March 2023 (CST)

Big Convoy (BW)

2021-10-05T00:38:14Z

Warpshard: Editing the link the main picture caption to link to an available video of the song

{{factions|maximal|autobot|decepticon}}
:''Big Convoy is a [[Maximal]] from the [[Beast Era]] portion of the [[Generation 1 continuity family|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:BigConvoy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Was the [[Transformers: Dark of the Moon (film)|dark of the moon]] on the sixth of June, in a [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sd5ZLJWQmss Kenworth haulin' logs]...]]

You ''don't'' want to give '''Big Convoy''' (ビッグコンボイ ''Biggu Konboi'') a hard time. While most Maximal [[Supreme Commander]]s are known for their level-headed and friendly natures, Big Convoy breaks the mold by positively wrecking and ruining anyone who gives him lip. A gargantuan bruiser of a warrior, he tramples the opposition in his woolly mammoth [[beast mode]] and utterly obliterates them in robot mode with his [[Big Cannon]]. He is known throughout the Maximal ranks as "The One-Man Army", a solitary Supreme Commander who can do the work of a whole battalion all on his lonesome.

So of course the [[Convoy Council]] felt he would make a perfect training instructor for a batch of new recruits freshly minted from the Maximal Military Academy. While it takes every ounce of restraint Big Convoy can muster not to completely throttle the green little twerps, deep down he kinda-sorta ''likes'' them. Or he's getting there, anyway. [[Vector Sigma]] has taken a special interest in Big Convoy and often speaks ''through'' him via the [[Energon Matrix]] in his chest. And with each lesson in warfare he imparts to his new recruits, Big Convoy in turn learns a lesson about friendship and teamwork.

{{quote|I never trust anyone—except for my Big Cannon.|Big Convoy|"[[A Battle Fought Alone]]"}}

==Fiction==
===Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====''Legends'' comic====
'''Big Junior''' (ビッグジュニア ''Biggu Junia'') was the son of [[Blue Big Convoy]], a radical estranged from the [[Convoy Council]] because of his egalitarian opinions regarding the relationship between Convoys and other Transformers. The two fought at each other's side till one fateful day where they battled a [[Blentron|mysterious group]] who sought out [[Angolmois Energy]]. Blue Big Convoy sacrificed himself to destroy the villains and to save Big Junior. The elder mammoth used his last words to teach a weeping Big Junior the true meaning of being a "Convoy" and gave his arm to replace Big Junior's destroyed one. Henceforward, Big Junior was Big Convoy and he became a loner to protect himself from the pain of losing another comrade. {{Storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. EX (Blue Big Convoy)|Bonus Edition Blue Big Convoy}}

====''Beast Wars Neo'' cartoon====
{{voiceactor|[[Junichi Inoue]] (Japanese)|[[Jung Goo Lee]] (Korean)}}
[[Image:Bwneo1 bigconvoy dreamwave.jpg|left|250px|thumb|Big Convoy pulls a [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]].]]
[[Image:BigConvoyAnime1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|We've got a great big codpiece.]]
Big Convoy once operated as a duo with [[Rockbuster]] and the two fought [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]]s and adventured together. However, their solitary natures eventually drove them apart and both warriors decided to become solo acts in the war against the Predacons. {{storylink|Dinosaur Combiner Magmatron}} Big Convoy's decision to go it alone brought him into conflict with the Maximal drill instructor [[Survive]], a stern believer in the value of teamwork. They parted on shaky ground, with Survive determined to someday teach Big Convoy how to work in a group. {{storylink|Survive the Hot-Blooded Instructor}} As "the One Man Army" (the nickname he quickly earned), Big Convoy focused his energies on thwarting the machinations of [[Magmatron]], the new leader of the Predacon forces. After a particularly explosive assault on a stronghold, the two became arch-foes.

Hoping to curb Big Convoy's psychotically antisocial behavior, the [[Convoy Council]] ordered him to train a crew of unruly new recruits. Big Convoy loathed the assignment at first, but being a loyal soldier, accepted the task. His first mission was to explore [[Gaia]] and investigate the disappearance of [[Lio Convoy]]. Little did he know, Magmatron and his Predacons were following close behind him. After finding a black box message from Lio Convoy, Big Convoy learned of the [[Angolmois Energy|Angolmois]] Capsules ejected after the destruction of [[Nemesis (BW)|Nemesis]]. Big Convoy then headed off with his group of trainees to collect the capsules, battling Magmatron every step of the way. {{storylink|Big Convoy, Move Out}}

{{storylink|Chase the Mysterious Capsule}} {{storylink|Burning Heart Below Freezing}} {{storylink|Hang in There, Stampy}} {{storylink|Mirage of the Sand}} {{storylink|Dinosaur Combiner Magmatron}} {{storylink|Duel in the Labyrinth}} {{storylink|The Black Hole Crisis}} {{storylink|Sub-Commander Longrack}} {{storylink|Waa! They Got Eaten}} {{storylink|Planet of Time}} {{storylink|Lonely Hydra}} {{storylink|Break Is a Predacon?}} {{storylink|Ship's Log}} {{storylink|Mach Kick Voluntarily Enlists!?}} {{storylink|Planet of the Ultimate Weapon}} {{storylink|Troubled DNAVI}} {{storylink|Attack! Randy}} {{storylink|Bump the Physicist}} {{storylink|Hardhead Is Hardheaded}} {{storylink|Personal Combat in the Deep Sea!!}} {{storylink|The Stolen Gung Ho}} {{storylink|Survive the Hot-Blooded Instructor}} {{storylink|Assemble! New Warriors}}

[[Image:MatrixBuster.jpg|left|250px|thumb]]
{{charstubfiction}}

===''Bom Bom'' manga continuity===
====''Beast Wars II'' manga====
[[Image:bwn-nanatunoko-manga-01-1.jpg|thumb|right|180px]]

Long before [[Lio Convoy]] and [[Galvatron (BW)|Galvatron]]'s [[Gaia]]n battles took place, '''Big''' (ビッグ ''Biggu'') the [[mammoth]] lived on a cold, primitive world in the [[7th Cosmos]]. When an [[Angolmois Energy|Angolmois]] Capsule fell on the planet, it evolved Big and other beasts, who were then led by a [[Magmatron|''Giganotosaurus'']], and the capsule came to be known as the Divine Stone. The resulting gang turned violent and, when he wasn't around, murdered Big's friends.

When the time-lost [[Lio Convoy]] ended up on Big's planet, he came face to face with the dinosaurs, and was saved in the nick of time by Big. After some introductions, Big brought Lio Convoy to the Divine Stone, but they were confronted by the evil creatures. Big was wounded in the battle, but the mammoth managed to push them all into the crevasse containing the stone, which exploded, further evolving the dinosaurs into full-fledged Transformers with robot modes. Lio Convoy was able to take down the mooks, but was easily defeated by the union of the ''Giganotosaurus'' with a ''Quetzalcoatlus'' and a ''Elasmosaurus''—[[Magmatron]]. When the villains made their leave, Lio Convoy recovered and found the mammoth dying in the snow. Regretting his involvement, Lio Convoy used his [[Energon Matrix]] to cure the animal. The process evolved Big into the Maximal Big Convoy, but he was left alone and amnesiac in the raging snowstorm. {{storylink|The Beast Wars "Neo" Begin!!!}}

====''Beast Wars Neo'' manga====
Big Convoy would join the Maximals, becoming the notorious "One Man Army". During one battle, he disregarded [[Crow Convoy]]'s orders by rushing into a Predacon space fortress and blowing it up; the resulting shockwave damaged the [[Maximal Army 7th Fleet]]. For his insubordination, [[Great Convoy]] punished Big Convoy by making him the instructor of five rookie Maximals on the planet Gaia. He took a lackadaisy approach, commanding his students from the ''[[Gung Ho]]'', but came to their rescue when they encountered lethal [[Predacon (BW)|Predacons]] on the abandoned ''[[Galvaburg II]]''. Inside, they found the mysterious [[Unicron/Generation 1|Black Ball]]. When it was brought aboard the Maximals' ship, it suddenly activated the warp engine. {{storylink|The 5 Rookies}} The Black Ball revealed itself to be capable of speech and told the story of the war between Lio Convoy and Galvatron, and the Maximal commander's name stirred something in Big Convoy.

When the warp dropped the ''Gung Ho'' in [[Luxor]]'s orbit, it was immediately attacked by the Predacon flagship ''[[Dinosaur (ship)|Dinosaur]]''. The ''Gung Ho'' crashed into an asteroid, but not before Big Convoy sent his subordinates on escape pods to Luxor. While repairing the ''Gung Ho'' with [[NAVI (Gung Ho)|NAVI]], Big Convoy investigated Lio Convoy's record, finding nothing that connected them two. When the rookies down on Luxor were attacked by the Predacons [[Dead End (BW)|Dead End]] and [[Sling (BW)|Sling]], Big Convoy leapt to the planet to their rescue, managing to drive them away and prevent the planet's Angolmois Capsule from falling into the enemy's hands. {{storylink|There Are 7 Capsules}} Their time on the planet was far from over, as the planet's sand was revealed to be actually made up of millimeter-long robots called [[Sandron]], who refused to allow the Maximals to leave the planet with the Capsule and threatened to eat them from the inside out. They attempted to sow confusion by assembling themselves into duplicates of the Maximals, but the ''Gung Ho'' was repaired in time to take the Maximals off the planet, and Big Convoy managed to use some deft gunfire to hold back the Sandron before they naturally dissipated thanks to the removal of the Angolmois Capsule from the planet. {{storylink|100000000000000000 Grains of Sandron!!}}

The Maximals next went to [[Greengard]] for its Angolmois Capsule. After appointing [[Stampy (BW)|Stampy]] the leader of that particular retrieval mission, Big Convoy stayed behind on the ''Gung Ho'', where he awaited the arrival of the ''Dinosaur''. After burying it in an avalanche, Big Convoy came face-to-face with Magmatron himself, who taunted the Maximal about his knowledge of Big Convoy's origins. After a fierce battle, Big Convoy was able to blast away Magmatron with his [[Big Cannon]] and picked up his students, who had succeeded at their mission. {{storylink|Mortal Combat! Twenty Thousand Meters in the Sky}} The next capsule was detected at [[Colada]]'s homeworld, [[Jörmungandr]]. Leaving [[Longrack (BW)|Longrack]] to watch over the ''Gung Ho'', Big Convoy joined his other soldiers to the planet, where they ran into Sling, Dead End, and [[Saberback]]. Big Convoy entered a duel with Dead End, but it was eventually interrupted by Saberback, who tried to off Big Convoy on the recently arrived [[Guiledart]]'s orders. A retaliatory blast from Big Convoy disintegrated Guiledart and breached the world's shell, sucking everything out into space. The Predacons were doomed to the void, and Big Convoy was forced to let go of his Big Cannon to save [[Break]]'s life, losing it forever. {{storylink|A Battle Fought Alone}}

Big Convoy and his troops later found themselves within the sanctuary of the [[Byakurēn]], where they found an Angolmois Capsule being worshiped as a holy vessel. The Maximals fought off the cult's evil priests before [[Kuma Kinkin]] engaged Big Convoy in one-on-one combat. Big Convoy managed to slice off one of Kuma Kinkin's arms in the ensuing battle, and used the missionary's own Bearnium gauntlet to kill him, stabbing him with it through the forehead. The cult vanquished, Big Convoy and his crew took possession of the capsule. {{storylink|Break Through! The Polar Bear Raging Claw Fist!}} Next, Big Convoy led his troops to the aquatic planet [[Wednesday]], where they retrieved the fifth Angolmois Capsule after a brief altercation against [[Rage (BW)|Rage]]. {{storylink|To Jellyfish with Love! Cry Out, Stampy Blade}}

[[Image:MangaBigConvoyVsBlentrons.jpg|left|upright=1.2|thumb|Who wants some?!]]
The sixth capsule was in the [[Graviton Prison]]. Though the Maximals were captured by the malfunctioning robot-guards, Big Convoy used his incredible kicking-strength to bust his crew out of their cell. With the capsule in their possession, the Maximals returned to their ship. The prison's guards attempted once more to stop the by pulling down on the ''Gung Ho'', but Big Convoy once more used his powerful legs to save the day, kicking the guards into a nearby black hole. {{storylink|The Great Escape! Graviton Prison!}}

For the final capsule, the Black Ball led the Maximals to a floating amphitheatre in proximity of [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], where they encountered the surviving Magmatron, who revealed that the Black Ball had led him there and gave him the [[Blentron]]s as troops! As events unfolded, though, the Blentrons turned on Magmatron and fed the collected capsules to the Black Ball, from which the face of [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]] emerged. Unicron explained that the last Angolmois Capsule, the divine stone that fell on an icy planet so long ago, was absorbed into the bodies of Big Convoy and Magmatron, a revelation that broke Big Convoy's amnesia. Breaking down from his recovered memories, Big Convoy crouched in tears till Magmatron implored him to keep fighting, and the two joined forces against the Blentrons. Just as the two were about to swoop into Unicron's maw, [[Heinrad (BW)|Heinrad]], in actuality an agent of the [[Chronarchitect|Ruler of Time and Space]], froze time and explained to Big Convoy the threat of Unicron and the Ruler's plan to destroy the universe to remove the threat. After knocking some sense into the despondent Big Convoy, Heinrad was pulled out of the spacetime continuum for his violation of the dogma of noninterference. Away from Unicron, Big Convoy had to watch as the dark god chomped on Magmatron, spitting out his head and his [[Magma Blade (BW)|Magma Blade]]. After being entrusted the sword, Big Convoy used it to end his rival's life and swore to fight against Unicron, who had absorbed Cybertron to become his new body. {{storylink|Double Cross}}

With the Magma Blade in hand, Big Convoy had the ''Gung Ho'' lure Unicron to the clustered planetary system [[Georgian]], where the Maximal crew had Unicron attack planets, setting off explosions that destroyed his limbs. Limbless, Unicron tried to unleash a Blentron army, but it was of little effect to Big Convoy, who dove in and stabbed his eye with the Magma Blade. However, Unicron's dark essence emerged from its eye and plastered itself on Big Convoy's body to take it over. With no option, Big Convoy took the Matrix from his chest and unleashed its power, destroying himself and Unicron in the process. In his dying moments, Big Convoy saw Lio Convoy come to bring his soul to peace.

At Big Convoy's memorial, his former students, now graduated, paid homage to him when Heinrad appeared and took the four to an wintry planet. There, he revealed that Big Convoy's spark was "recycled" by his organization and the commander was reincarnated as an ordinary mammoth without memory or awareness of what came before. As the Maximals—now Convoys—saluted him, the mammoth walked off into the distance. {{storylink|Return to Zero}}
{{--}}

====''Beast Wars Metals'' manga====
The visage of Big Convoy appeared alongside those of Lio Convoy and [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] in a poetic montage overlooking the [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]] on [[Earth|Energoa]]. {{storylink|Beast Wars Metals issue 1|Beast Wars Metals #1}}

===Dreamwave ''Armada'' comic===
[[File:Big Convoy WorldsCollide Portal.jpg|thumb|150px]]
[[Blurr (Armada)|Blurr]], [[Side Swipe (Armada)|Side Swipe]], and [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]] discovered that the [[Herald of Unicron|Heralds of Unicron]] had destabilized the Decepticon [[space bridge nexus]], causing the space bridges to become windows to other dimensions. One of these windows showed Big Convoy, who seemed to be looking right back at Jetfire. Jetfire, thinking he had seen the Optimus Prime he knew, tried to say so, but only stuttered, possibly in shock. {{storylink|Worlds Collide, Part 4 of 4}}
{{--}}

===2006 IDW ''Beast Wars'' continuity===
[[File:Gathering1-BigConvoy.jpg|left|250px|thumb|Where everybody knows your name...]]
By one account, Big Convoy was known as the "one robot army" and was assigned by the [[Maximal Elder]]s to the ''Gung Ho'' and its crew of Maximal rookies in a time before the [[Pax Cybertronia]]. Together, they defeated Magmatron. {{storylink|Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook|Beast Wars Sourcebook #1}}

In another account, Big Convoy had earned himself a place on the [[Autobot High Council]] by the tail-end of the Great War. He was away from their base of operation when news came in that both Optimus Prime and Galvatron had fallen in combat, and so attended a meeting via holographic-projection. After rebranding themselves the "[[Primal Council]]", the group discussed their intent to broker an armistice with their enemies, in the hopes of ending the war without further bloodshed. To this end, Big Convoy was sent to a front near the [[Rust Sea Peninsula]]. {{storylink|Dawn of the Predacus}}

Big Convoy was part of Cybertron's [[Bi-Partate Committee for State Affairs]] alongside [[Heinrad (BW)|Heinrad]] and [[Magmatron]]. {{storylink|The Gathering issue 1|The Gathering #1}} Because of his distinguished service, he was a high-ranking member of the joint committee. {{storylink|Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook|Beast Wars Sourcebook #1}}

On Cybertron, Big Convoy, along with [[Tasmania Kid]], had been investigating recent disturbances and riots occurring with increasing frequency. He found that the riots had been set off by the use of Angolmois capsules—something which he thought he had seen the last of. Though the rulers of the [[Maximal Imperium]] sent their aide, [[Ikard]], to bring Big Convoy to them, he refused to come, citing the importance of getting some control in the field. {{storylink|The Ascending issue 2|The Ascending #2}}

[[Image:CybertronianBigConvoy.jpg|right|250px|thumb|He doesn't attend to politicians when there's asses to kick.]]

Following the trail of the Angolmois incidents, he and his unit were able to locate a monolithic structure jutting from the Cybertronian skyline. [[Colada|Cohrada]] speculated that the new building was in fact quite ancient, a part of an older era of Cybertron that was thrust up through the substructure. [[Shokaract]] emerged from the structure, eager to demonstrate his newfound power. Big Convoy retaliated, transforming into a heavily armed spider-tank alt mode. Magmatron witnessed that unless the timestream was altered, the Maximal leader would also be killed by Shokaract. Thus, the chronally displaced Predacon chose that moment in time for the transwarp coordinates to give to [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]]. Therefore, the battle was interrupted by the appearance of [[Lio Convoy]]'s transwarp cruiser, sparing Big Convoy. However, this hope was in vain, as it was soon shot down by Shokaract. {{storylink|The Ascending issue 3|The Ascending #3}}

Big Convoy later met [[Bump]], a "specialist" sent by Lio Convoy. Soon afterwards, Big Convoy and his soldiers encountered the Pack, along with immigrants from Earth, including [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]]. He participated in the plan and battled with Shokaract's forces. After their enemies were defeated, Lio Convoy and Big Convoy hoped that no threat came up while they were focused on rebuilding Cybertron, which had fallen into a sorry state after Shokaract's distribution of Angolmois. Unfortunately, [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]] popped up just in time to dash that hope. {{storylink|The Ascending issue 4|The Ascending #4}}
{{-}}

===''Kre-O'' online manga===
[[File:KreO-webcomic-10-BigConvoy.jpg|thumb|left|75px]]

Big Convoy was at the newly constructed Autobot base, [[Metroplex (Kre-O)|Metroplex]], enjoying the big turret at the top of the building. {{storylink|Two Giant Bases! Everybody Getting Along, Come On, Fight!}}
{{-}}

===Legends World===
In the [[Legends World]], Big Convoy was a ''Transformers'' nerd who worked as a high school teacher. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 59|Bonus Edition Vol. 59}} He attended the [[Transformers Celebration 2014]], {{storylink|Legends Bonus Vol.}} and later was part of the crowd that cheered on the recently arrived [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] from the [[G1 World]]. {{storylink|Legends Vol. 23#Lord Megatron Goes to the Legends World|Lord Megatron Goes to the Legends World}}

Big Convoy took a job as a teacher at Magmatron's high school, initially scaring his students with his fierce appearance before showing his true self when he ran off to buy ''Transformers'' toys. {{storylink|LG59 Blitzwing Prologue: Big-sensei|Year 3, Class B Big-sensei}} He found teaching regular subjects boring and instead began teaching the history of the ''Transformers'' brand, {{storylink|LG59 Blitzwing Prologue: Big-sensei|First Lesson First}} and petitioned Magmatron to change the homeroom period to a period dedicated to talking about ''Transformers''. {{storylink|LG59 Blitzwing Prologue: Big-sensei|Very Strange}} Upon catching Colada shaking Stampy down, Big reprimanded him but showed his gentle side by giving his student some "money"... in the form of [[Cyber Key]]s. {{storylink|LG59 Blitzwing Prologue: Big-sensei|Delinquent Colada}} During sports day, he presented Break with a Cyber Key medal for his exemplary skating before crushing his students under his weight during the cavalry race. {{storylink|LG59 Blitzwing Prologue: Big-sensei|Hot-blooded Break}} When Longrack began studying ''Transformers'' at the cost of neglecting other subjects, Big realized he was leading his students astray and began teaching properly. {{storylink|LG59 Blitzwing Prologue: Big-sensei|Preparatory Reviewer Longrack}}

One day, Big Convoy awoke in the form of a robot mammoth who could turn himself into a tank and was, to his joy, diagnosed with [[Transformers sickness]]. [[DNAVI]] prescribed him some medicine, but he refused to be cured and threw it away. {{storylink|LG59 Blitzwing Prologue: Big-sensei|When I Awoke One Morning...}} On the way home, he was caught up in a [[Quintesson]] invasion and, finding [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]] lamenting his uselessness, looked in vain for a [[football coach]] who could aid him. Realizing he himself qualified as a kind of coach, he then decided to disguise himself as a Decepticon and help Blitzwing. {{storylink|LG59 Blitzwing Prologue: Big-sensei|To Fight with...}} After he offered the beleaguered soldier his services as a strategist, he introduced himself as "'''Big Fight'''" (ビッグファイト ''Biggu Faito''). His strategy didn't amount to much, merely telling Blitzwing to forge his own destiny, but the [[Triple Changer]] was able to relay those ideas to an invading [[Overcharge (G1)|Overcharge]], who was actually Blitzwing from the past. After the invasion was ultimately repelled, Big Fight took his leave and Big Convoy was found the next day asleep during class. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 59|Bonus Edition Vol. 59}}

When [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]'s [[Majin Zarak]] threatened the Legends World, [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]]'s ''Encore'' Big Convoy toy leapt to the rescue and revealed that all ''Transformers'' toys in the Legends World were actually living beings. {{storylink|Targetmaster Chapter Finale: Legends World in Imminent Danger! Part Two|Legends World in Imminent Danger! Part Two}}

Nevertheless, the Legends World was destroyed and the regular Big Convoy from that world was forced to evacuate the universe in the ''[[Axalon (BW)|Axalon]]'' and ended up on [[Beast (planet)|Beast]]. When that planet was attacked by [[Galvatron II]] and his [[Nemesis (BW)|Nemesis]], [[Lio Convoy|Leo Prime]] forced Transformers sickness onto the Legends World refugees and converted them into forms much like the G1 World's own Beast Warriors. With the other Convoys, Big Convoy destroyed Nemesis's core in a Triple Beast Convoy Matrix Attack. {{Storylink|The Road to Legends' Revival Chapter 3}}

===''Beast Wars: Uprising''===
'''Slammoth''' was a member of the [[Cybertronian Navy]] who served aboard the ''[[Gung Ho|Gung-Ho]]'', patrolling the [[Allowed Zone]] of known space under the watchful eye of the [[Human Confederacy]]. {{storylink|Intersectionality}}

During the [[Grand Uprising]], Slammoth seized control of ''Gung-Ho'' from the Builders. He became Supreme Commander of the space vessels controlled by the [[Resistance]] as the war went on. In addition to clashing with Builders, Slammoth had several encounters with [[Razorclaw (Universe)|Razor-Claw]], an opportunist Predacon warlord who seized control of Cybertron's three moons, and was initially antagonistic with [[Lio Convoy]]'s movement.

When the war ended and the [[Vehicon Apocalypse]] was routed, Slammoth took part in the negotiations at [[Dragon's Bane Cathedral]] in [[Hyperious]] to establish a new government. Once the [[Cybertronian Parliament]] was hammered into shape, Slammoth became one of the three chosen representatives of the Resistance. {{storylink|Derailment}}

==Toys==
===''Beast Wars''===
[[File:BWNtoy-BigConvoy.jpg|upright=1.67|thumb|I'm not fat, it's all this kibble. It makes me look...poofy.]]
*'''Big Convoy''' (February, [[1999]])
**''Takara ID number'': '''C-35'''
**''Sonokong ID number'': '''C-05'''
**''Accessories:'' "[[Big Cannon#Beast Wars Neo|Big Cannon]]", 2 missiles, 2 "[[Mammoth Haken#Beast Wars Neo|Mammoth Haken]]" missiles, "[[Energon Matrix#BigConvoy|Energon Matrix]]"

: Part of the second wave of ''Beast Wars Neo'' products in the [[Japan]]ese ''[[Transformers: Beast Wars (Japanese toyline)#BWN|Beast Wars]]'' toyline, Big Convoy transforms into an organic mammoth. His beast mode has a rubber trunk which can be controlled by pushing a lever on the top of his head to somewhat simulate his "Mammoth Dynamite" attack. In addition, the tusks can be moved by pulling back either of his ears.

:In robot mode, Big Convoy is absolutely chock-full of weapons and [[gimmick]]s:
:#The spring-loaded "Big Cannon" (formed out of the beast's head, back, and tail) can fire two missiles from two barrels in succession with a rotating dial. It is held in his hands via [[5 mm post]] and can be stored on his back.
:#His shoulder armor can be swung up to reveal sculpted, non-firing missile pods.
:#He has flip-out "{{w|tonfa|Mammoth Tonfa}}" melee weapons in both forearms.
:#The two beast panels on the sides of his legs feature two spring-loaded missile launchers that fire his anchor-shaped "Mammoth Haken" projectiles (similar to the original ''Beast Wars'' Ultra Class [[Megatron (BW)/toys#BWultra|Megatron]] toy); the missiles can also be loosely held as melee weapons.
:#His chest panel flips down, revealing the first-ever removable Matrix toy accessory, vacuum-metalized gold with a transparent red center. This accessory can be held by any figure with standard 5mm fist holes.

: Big Convoy technically has a third mode, known as "Mammoth Tank", which is basically just his beast mode with the Big Cannon folded out and his Mammoth Haken launchers deployed. Yay.

: This toy is somewhat infamous for being a [[shellformer]], as practically all of his beast mode components are shells that fit around the compressed robot to form this mode. Much of his [[kibble]] can be detached from the main figure to form the majority of his beast mode [[:File:Bigconvoy shell.jpg|on its own]].

: [[Sonokong]] released Big Convoy as "Mammolike" in the [[South Korea|Korean]] ''Beast War Neo'' toyline. This release features no changes to the toy itself, with the only differences being [[:File:C-05 Mammolike Sonokong.jpg|the packaging]] and bio cards.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/1999/Cybertron/BigConvoy/bigconvoy.htm More information on Big Convoy at TFU.info]''
{{BeastWarsNeoBigConvoyMold}}

{{-}}{{anchor|VS35}}{{anchor|VS}}
{{Twoimages|File:Big Convoy-VS-Magmatron-Boxset.jpg|w1=200
|File:DX-05 Mammolike VS Magmatron Sonokong.jpg|w2=150|caption='''Left:''' ''Takara packaging pictured'' '''Right:''' ''Sonokong packaging pictured''|float=right}}
*'''Cosmic Showdown: Big Convoy VS Magmatron''' (Vs pack, February 1999)
**''Takara ID number'': '''VS-35'''
**''Sonokong ID number'': '''DX-05
**''Accessories:'' "Big Cannon", 2 missiles, two "Mammoth Haken" missiles, "Energon Matrix"

: Big Convoy was also available in the "Cosmic Showdown" (大宇宙の対決 ''dai uchū no taiketsu'') "versus" pack with his chief adversary, [[Magmatron#VS35|Magmatron]]. Both toys were identical to their individual releases.

:This vs-pack was also released in Korea by Sonokong. Much like the single release of "Mammolike", both toys are identical to the Takara releases, the only differences being the packaging and bio cards.

{{-}}{{anchor|Gold}}
[[File:Gold_Big_Convoy_and_Magmatron.jpg|thumb|250px]]
*'''Kinpika Big Convoy''' (1999)
**''Accessories:'' "Big Cannon", 2 missiles, two "Mammoth Haken" missiles, "Energon Matrix"

:This gold [[vacuum metallizing|vacuum metallized]] Big Convoy was featured as a [[Lucky Draw figure|Lucky Draw]] giveaway.

{{-}}{{anchor|Blue}}
[[File:1999_Blue_Big_Convoy.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Please, Mr. Blue was [[Blue Big Convoy|my father]], call me Big.]]
*'''Blue Big Convoy''' (1999)
**''Accessories:'' "Big Cannon", 2 missiles, two "Mammoth Haken" missiles, "Energon Matrix"

:A redeco of Big Convoy in blue, this figure is a Lucky Draw item.
{{note|The ''[[Transformers Legends (franchise)|Legends]]''-original character [[Blue Big Convoy#Legends|Blue Big Convoy]] is an homage to this release.}}
{{--}}

===''Legends''===
[[File:TF-Legends-LG59-Bigfight.jpg|right|300px|thumb]]
*'''Blitzwing''' ([[January 27]], [[2018]])
**''ID number:'' '''LG59'''

:Available with the ''[[Transformers Legends (franchise)|Legends]]'' Voyager-sized [[Blitzwing (G1)/toys#Legends|Blitzwing]] figure, "Big Fight" is a redeco of ''[[Titans Return (toyline)|Titans Return]]'' [[Shuffler#Legends|Shuffler]]'s accessory. The [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] form of Blitzwing can ride Big Fight in robot mode. Big Fight can also transform into a 5 mm gun for larger ''Titans Return'' or any ''Legends'' Headmaster figures to wield.
{{TRShufflerMold}}
{{--}}

===''Encore''===
[[File:Encore-Big-Convoy.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Guess this means we won't be seeing a ''Masterpiece'' Big Convoy anytime soon then...]]
*'''Big Convoy''' ([[January 26]], [[2019]])
**''Accessories:'' "Big Cannon", 2 missiles, 2 "Mammoth Haken" missiles, "Energon Matrix"

:One of the odder ''[[Transformers Encore|Encore]]'' reissues (the line was exclusively "[[The Transformers (toyline)|Generation 1]]"-based through its original run, then started putting out newer-series molds after a five-year haitus), this release of Big Convoy has been extensively redecoed to be more anime-accurate. The most notable changes include his paint and plastic being much more matte overall, flat white replacing the pearlescent-white and silver, his beast mode pelt is a darker brown, his gold parts have changed to yellow, and his beast eyes are now white with pupils.

:This release of Big Convoy displays considerably well with the ''[[The Transformers: Masterpiece|Masterpiece]]'' [[Lio Convoy]] and anime colored [[Optimus Primal (BW)/toys#MP38|Optimus Primal]] toys. With all three of the figures being roughly the same height, it is extremely accurate to the respective cartoon scales.

{{-}}{{anchor|EncoreMatrixBuster}}
[[File:TF-BWN-Encore-Big-Convoy-Matrix-Buster.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
*'''Big Convoy (Matrix Buster Ver.)''' ([[February 28]], [[2020]])
**''Accessories:'' "Big Cannon", 2 missiles, 2 "Mammoth Haken" missiles, "Energon Matrix", "Matrix Buster", "NAVI" figure, 2 leg attachments

:Somehow topping the previous ''Encore'' release in the "wait what?" category, this rerelease of Big Convoy has no deco changes from the original ''Beast Wars Neo'' version, but does have a lot of new parts added to it.

: The centerpiece is the massive "Matrix Buster" cannon accessory (as used in the penultimate episode of the ''Neo'' anime), which can store the [[retool]]ed Energon Matrix with collapsible handles, and has two flexible tubes that plug into his waist-piece. Completing the cartoon-based configuration are two small turbine-like parts that extend his hip-mounted mammoth legs by plugging in between the legs and the removable feet, exploiting a facet of the toy's construction that was not considered a play "feature" prior.

: Finally, this set also includes a small [[NAVI (Gung Ho)#Toys|NAVI]] figurine. Yay!

: This figure was also released in [[Australia]] as a EB Games/Zing exclusive.
{{--}}

==Merchandise==
{{charstubtoys}}

===Flame Toys===
====Furai Model====
*'''Big Convoy''' (20??)
{{comingsoontoy}}

==Notes==
[[File:Mammothconvoy.jpg|thumb|right]]
*[[TakaraTomy|Takara]]'s [[Generation 1 cartoon timeline (Japan)|2007 Japanese Generation 1 cartoon timeline]] says that ''Beast Wars Neo'' took place thousands of years after ''Beast Wars''. In IDW's continuity, events similar to ''Beast Wars Neo'' happened in the ''past'', and Big Convoy is still alive at the same time as [[Optimus Primal (BW)|Optimus Primal]].
*Concept art by Big Convoy's toy designer [[Hisashi Yuki]] lists his preliminary name as Mammoth Convoy.<ref>http://twitter.com/TOYROBOYUKI/status/1028923779949375488</ref>
*Like most comic-only Kreons, ''Kre-O'' Big Convoy is made up of existing ''Kre-O'' parts. He uses the [[Optimus Prime (Kre-O)|Optimus Prime]] helmet, the bazooka gun (in reference to the [[Big Cannon]]), and some kind of spiky pieces attached to a backpack.

===Foreign names===
*''Korean:'' '''Mammolike''' (맘모라이크 ''Mammoraikeu'')
{{--}}

==References==
<references />

[[Category:Animals]]
[[Category:Beast Wars Maximals]]
[[Category:Beast Wars II Maximals]]
[[Category:Beast Wars Neo Maximals]]
[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising Maximals]]
[[Category:Convoys]]
[[Category:Generation 1 Autobots]]
[[Category:Japanese-original Transformers]]
[[Category:Kre-O Autobots]]
[[Category:Kreons]]
[[Category:Legends Decepticons]]
[[Category:Legends Maximals]]
[[Category:Legends World natives]]
[[Category:Matrix bearers]]
[[Category:Maximal leaders]]
[[Category:Resistance]]
[[Category:Teachers]]
[[Category:Transformers with three modes]]
[[Category:Unicron-related characters]]

Autobot

2021-08-31T21:07:22Z

Warpshard: Changing the width of the Gears quote to mesh a bit better with the biography above it.

{{factions|autobot|autobotg2|ttautobot|sgAutobot|{{factions/icons|custom=Ancient_Autobot_Symbol.png|cSize=30x30px|cLink=Autobot|cPretty=Ancient Autobot}}}}
{{disambig2|the faction|Generation 2 watch-Autobot|Autobot (G2)}}
[[File:Symbol autobot reg.png|upright=1.4|thumb|If you don't recognize this [[Insignia|symbol]], what the heck are you doing here?]]

{{quote|[['Til all are one]].|Autobot rally cry|''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''}}

The '''Autobots''' are one of the primary factions in the [[Transformers brand|''Transformers'']] mythos. They usually find themselves defending both their own race and other species against the [[Decepticon]]s and upholding justice and freedom throughout the galaxy.

They are considered "the good guys" in most, but not in [[Transformers: Shattered Glass (franchise)|all]] Transformers stories.

A generally heroic, honorable group, they tend to be dedicated to peace, and feel a need to protect other races from the Decepticons. As a result, they are usually Transformers who change into non-combat oriented [[alternate mode]]s such as domestic vehicles, cars, trucks, or rescue vehicles. This is not ''always'' the case, however, as their ranks certainly contain ne'er-do-wells, malcontents, and unsavory types, and the necessities of war have led many to adopt more combat-oriented alternate forms. While the Autobots have usually found themselves outnumbered by the Decepticons, the Autobots have always had home-field advantage, having not only the humans' military support, but also having more places on Earth to fall back on, while the Decepticons are entirely unwelcome on Earth.

Key concepts that repeat throughout most continuities are the use of the name [[Prime (rank)|Prime]] (or a variation thereof) to denote Autobot leadership, and the existence of an artifact of great life-giving power, usually referred to as a "[[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]]", traditionally held by their [[Prime (rank)|leader]].

The collective noun for Autobots is an "exaltation".<ref>"...more dangerous than an exaltation of Autobots." — [[Blackarachnia (Animated)|Blackarachnia]], ''[[Transformers Animated: The AllSpark Almanac]]'' (2009) p 101</ref>

{{quote|Few beings think of themselves as evil. Many justify their actions as good, even if they are not. But if you believe the 'good guys' would not harm any life-form, then you may consider me a member of that team.|[[Gears (ROTF)|Gears]]|''[[Transformers Classified: Switching Gears|Switching Gears]]''|width=800px}}

==Generation 1 / Beast Era==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics====
[[File:Primag2.jpg|left|upright=1.1|thumb|The birth of Prima, the first Autobot. Just before Primus went around handing out cigars.]]
In the beginning [[Primus]] created the Transformers, a race of living robots that could change their bodies into the likeness of weapons, vehicles, and machinery, and all Transformers were Autobots, and he saw that they were good. The Autobot symbol (or [[insignia|Autobrand]] as it is sometimes called) was based on the face of the [[Last Autobot]], the sleeping guardian Primus left for the day when his plans came to fruition.

At first Autobot numbers were small (a mere [[Thirteen|13]] began things), but through [[Reproduction|budding]] they expanded their race to fill the planet. When the correct level of population was reached, a mechanism triggered and memory of the process was wiped from the Transformers minds. At some point in these early days Unicron was able to reach through the mental link he shared with Primus and sow the seeds of corruption in a few Autobots, though this dark cult of Unicron would not bear fruit for a long time.

Eons passed in relative peace. Autobot society formed its own traditions, institutions, city-states and politics. From a human perspective this society resembled that of ancient Rome. [[Senate|Senators]] and [[Emirate]]s governed wisely or corruptly, priests worshipped Primus and passed his holy Matrix to the chosen bearer (the lineage: [[Prima]] to [[Prime Nova]], Prime Nova to [[Sentinel Prime (G1)|Sentinel Prime]]), gladiatorial games were held for sport and entertainment, and above it all the [[Overlord (rank)|Overlords]] ruled.

It was only with the advent of [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] at the end of the [[Golden Age]], coinciding with the death of the last hereditary Overlord, and the subsequent rise of the Decepticons, that the words "Autobot" and "Transformer" ceased being necessary synonyms and the population was divided by war.

[[File:Optimusprimeg1marvelfirst.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Optimus Prime appears to turn the tide.]]
In the early days of the war the Autobots were overwhelmed by the Decepticon war machine. They fell back again and again and for a while it looked like the war would be quickly lost... and then a young warrior rose from their ranks and rallied the troops to fight back. He made his reputation by denying Megatron access to the [[Underbase]], soon rose to command the Autobots' elite air corps, and then, at last, was granted full command of all Autobot armies. [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] had turned the tide, and under his leadership the Autobots fought back until Megatron's war machine was stalled out and stalemated.

[[File:Marvel71 neversurrender.jpg|upright=1.1|left|thumb|They won't need to. They'll just crumble to bits]]
The war ground on until Autobot scientists detected that their planet's path was going to pass through a deadly asteroid belt. Putting the planet-wide conflict aside for the moment they turned their attention to planetary salvation and the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] was built.

[[File:Autobotline.gif|upright=2.2|thumb|And now, shadow puppet theatre.]]
Optimus and a crew of his best soldiers took the Ark into space and cleared a path for the planet through the asteroid field. Unfortunately with their power depleted from that Herculean task they were then ambushed by Megatron and his Decepticons. The crews of both ships were lost to history.

Without Megatron or Prime the pace of the war slowed considerably. Still, fighting continued and both sides dug in for a long bitter struggle. In Prime's absence [[Xaaron|Emirate Xaaron]] led the Autobot forces in their struggle to retake their homeworld.

[[File:Autobots-disintegratedcircuits1.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4]]

The next four million years passed quickly (as it is wont to do) and without any major alteration (only a general degradation) of the situation. Finally news came to Cybertron: Optimus Prime and his forces lived! Yet this news came at a steep price, as it meant a new front had opened in the war. Optimus Prime and his forces fought the Decepticons on the distant world of Earth, while Xaaron, his [[Wrecker]]s, and others carried on the war for Cybertron.

Despite Prime's dedication to protecting Earth, Autobot/Human relations were not good. Humanity viewed all Transformers as threats and attacked any they discovered regardless of faction. Industrialist [[G.B. Blackrock]] tried to inform the public that there were two factions, with the Autobots being the benign faction, but the [[Intelligence and Information Institute]], the government agency tasked with countering the Transformers, was either unable or unwilling to distinguish between factions.

Not long after his survival was discovered, tragedy struck and Optimus Prime was killed on Earth. The Dinobot commander [[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] took on the leadership of Prime's soldiers, though he favored the abandonment of Earth and a renewed focus on Cybertron.

At roughly the same time, the great Autobot warrior [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] reached an important decision. He was tired of the war and if he could not end it he would leave it behind. Gathering a large following of likeminded warriors he left Cybertron for the world of Nebulos in hopes of a new and peaceful life. This was not to be. Decepticons followed Maximus and opened a third front to the war. In the end both factions abandoned Nebulos and Maximus led them to Earth to unite with the forces under Optimus Prime.

[[File:LastAutobot.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb|From Prima to Last Autobot, we come full circle. You may close your notebooks.]]
However, when they arrived they discovered Prime dead and Grimlock less than welcoming. Grimlock and Maximus attempted to establish a single Autobot leader with trial by combat, but were interrupted by a devastating Decepticon attack. The upside of it all was that they ended up putting their differences aside and Optimus Prime was soon reborn to take up leadership of the Earth-based forces once again.

Not long after, a dimensional transporter accident led to the rediscovery and accidental disturbance of Primus deep in the center of Cybertron. The Autobots learned that their ancient myths about Primus were the truth, and Unicron was now coming for them. Since the Creation Matrix had been lost and corrupted, Optimus Prime offered the Autobots' unconditional surrender to the Decepticons in the hopes that this would lead the two factions to stand together against the coming threat. It did, and the Matrix was retrieved and purified in time to stop Unicron. Both Optimus Prime and Emirate Xaaron were killed in the battle, and Grimlock ascended to Autobot leadership again, this time over all Autobots.

The alliance with the Decepticons would be short lived. Cybertron appeared to be destroying itself and the Decepticons betrayed the Autobots, leaving them to die with their world. Grimlock's leadership led to the Autobots escaping that trap, and walking right into a different one. Oops. Thankfully, the awakening of the Last Autobot saved Cybertron and led to the rebirth of Optimus Prime, who reclaimed Autobot leadership and beat the Decepticons once and for all.

''(From this point the Marvel Generation 2, the Fun Publication's Classics comics and Regeneration One continue the story in separate and mutually exclusive directions.)''

====Marvel ''Generation 2'' comic====
The war finally over, most of the Autobots retired to the revived and prosperous Cybertron. It wasn't to last. Grimlock led a crew of Autobots not ready to take a vacation and put their feet up to try and track down any remaining Decepticon trouble. They found more than they could imagine as they discovered a vast and militant Empire constructed across the stars by Decepticons who left Cybertron long ago.

At the same time, Megatron reared his head again on Earth and soon the surviving Decepticons from the end of the war joined him, intent on restarting the war on Earth. It was not long before Decepticons and Autobots were teamed up against the forces of the Cybertronian Empire. Though this new conflict never touched the revived Cybertron, Earth was devastated by it. The Bot/Con alliance won, but how long this new alliance would last and what [[Liege Maximo|new threats]] awaited remained a question.

====''Classics''====
{{noteclassics}}

{{groupstub}}

====''Regeneration One''====
Twenty one years after [[Klo]], the Autobots had cemented their rule over Cybertron and rebuilt their planet. The ardent pacifism of Optimus Prime however prevented decisive action to end the renascent Decepticon threat on Cybertron as well as the tying up of loose ends on other planets. This attitude proved unpopular among the command staff of the Autobots with both [[Kup (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Kup]] and [[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] breaking ranks to deal with these issues themselves. {{storylink|Loose Ends, Part 1}} {{storylink|Loose Ends, Part 2}}

While on [[Nebulos]], Grimlock was detained by [[Scorponok (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Scorponok]], {{storylink|Loose Ends, Part 5}} who revealed he had developed the [[Gene Key]], a device that altered the [[CNA]] of Cybertronians to activate the "warrior gene" and turn all Autobots into loyal Decepticons. {{storylink|Natural Selection, Part One}} Though pretending to agree to join Scorponok, Grimlock managed to inform [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]] of the plan who managed to neutralize the Gene Key before its abilities could be broadcasted on a planetary scale. {{storylink|Natural Selection, Part Five}} In spite of this, the actions many Autobots turned themselves in for war crimes they felt they had committed under the Key's influence. {{storylink|Destiny, Part One}}

After an attack by [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] and [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]], [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] was turned into "Rodimus Prime" and became the new leader of the Autobots. Concurrently, a group of Autobots construction workers was loaned to Optimus Prime to aid in the construction of a Space Bridge network between [[Earth]] and Nebulos. {{storylink|The War to End All Wars, Part 1}} When the rogue senator [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]] returned to Cybertron, he engaged in some false pleasantries with Rodimus Prime before the Autobots went to war with the Cybertronian Empire. {{storylink|The War to End All Wars, Part 2}} {{storylink|The War to End All Wars, Part 3}} {{storylink|The War to End All Wars, Part 4}}

The victory proved pyrrhic at best. While the Autobots were away, the [[Dark Matrix]] had turned the entirety of Cybertron's population into [[shadow-leech]]es. Though the Autobots managed to defeat the malignant entity, it left them deprived of their biological immortality, eventually dying out millions of years into the future. The last Autobot, indeed the last Cybertronian, wound up being Rodimus Prime. Upon his death, the last vestiges of his [[spark]] energy served to ignite the [[Botanica (BM)|new generation]] of Cybertronians. {{storylink|The War to End All Wars, Part 5}}

====''Transformers '84''====
Though managing to offer sufficient resistance to divert Megatron's attention away from [[Project Dreadnought]], {{storylink|Secrets & Lies issue 1|Secrets & Lies #1}} the Autobots were outmatched by the aggressors. Feeling that Megatron was the lynchpin of the Decepticon army, Optimus Prime conspired to trap his opposite off Cybertron, feeling that it would give his army a fighting chance. Aware that such an act would be sacrificial, Optimus left command of the Autobots to Ultra Magnus. {{storylink|Transformers '84 issue 0|Transformers '84 #0}}

Despite Optimus' gambit succeeding, [[Straxus (G1)|Straxus]] emerged as the new [[Decepticon leader]] and aggressively accelerated the campgain against the Autobots. When [[Punch (G1)|Punch]] brought the news that Straxus sought to restart Project Dreadnought, Ultra Magnus received a pep talk from Impactor and Roadbuster that inspired him to take a more decentralized approach to command. {{storylink|Secrets & Lies issue 3|Secrets & Lies #3}} After the new commando team, the [[Wrecker]]s, had destroyed Project Dreadnought, [[Autobot High Command]] was led by Magnus, [[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]], and [[Fortress Maximus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Fortress Maximus]] who opted for a decentralized response to the increasingly fragmented war. {{storylink|Secrets & Lies issue 4|Secrets & Lies #4}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====''The Transformers'' cartoon====
[[File:BetasAutobotRebels.jpg|thumb|upright=1.5|There just weren't as many characters to cosplay as in the old days.]]
The Autobots originated as a line of non-living consumer goods robots, created by the [[Quintesson]]s alongside the military hardware robots that would become the Decepticons. {{storylink|Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4}} Developing sentience and emotion, the robots turned on their alien masters, though the Quintessons' gargantuan [[Dark Guardian]] robots made victory an unlikely prospect. A major tipping point occurred when the rebel leader [[Alpha Trion (G1)|A-3]] used his [[Coder Remote]], hidden within his slave brand, to deactivate the Dark Guardians, striking a major blow against the Quintessons and forever transforming the brand into a mark of autonomy that eventually became the Autobots' faction insignia. {{storylink|Forever Is a Long Time Coming (episode)|Forever Is a Long Time Coming}} At some point in these early days, the Autobots somehow gained possession of the mysterious [[Matrix of Leadership]], which was carried by each successive leader of their race, and became a repository for their consciousness upon their passing. During the early days of Quintesson rule, it was carried by [[Primon]], who was succeeded by the first robot to challenge the Quintessons, [[Prima]], followed by the leader during the rebellion, [[Prime Nova]]. {{storylink|Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4}}
[[File:FFOD4 passing the matrix.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.2]]
After the Quintessons were successfully forced from Cybertron, a period of peace descended during which the Autobots—as they now called themselves—began building a civilization, but the warlike Decepticons soon declared war on them, claiming the lives of leaders [[Guardian Prime]] and [[Zeta Prime (G1)|Zeta Prime]]. {{storylink|Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4}} Outmatched by their enemies, many Autobots fled Cybertron, seeking to start new lives free of conflict elsewhere in the universe, {{storylink|Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 2}} settling on planets such as [[Paradron]]. {{storylink|Fight or Flee (episode)|Fight or Flee}} Outmached in strength and firepower, the Autobots turned instead to stealth, inventing the art of [[transformation]]. Using this power, Autobot leader [[Sentinel Prime (G1)|Sentinel Prime]] defeated [[Trannis]], and ended the war. {{storylink|Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4}}
[[File:MTMTE2 stick it in neutral.jpg|thumb|upright=1.2]]
Peace settled over Cybertron and what became known as the [[Golden Age]] began, but around nine million years ago, the Decepticons struck back, now under the command of [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]]. Megatron slew Sentinel Prime, who passed stewardship of the Matrix to A-3—now Alpha Trion—who was busy working on a means of rebuilding the Autobots so they would be able to fight the Decepticons on equal footing. When a wounded young robot named [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Orion Pax]] was brought to Alpha Trion, Trion repaired him using the process, rebuilding him as [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] and giving him the Matrix that he might serve as the leader of the first of a new breed of war-ready Autobot. {{storylink|War Dawn (episode)|War Dawn}} Under Prime's leadership, the protracted warfare ran for five million years, draining Cybertron dry of energy and forcing the Transformers to seek new power sources on other planets. Optimus Prime's best and brightest departed on this quest aboard [[Ark (G1)|a spacecraft]], but were pursued and attacked by Megatron's elite, leading all involved to a crash-land on prehistoric Earth, entombed in stasis for four million years. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 1}}
[[File:CosmicRust-BigGroup.jpg|left|upright=1.66|thumb|"Incompetent fools! There's only like seven Decepticons and fifty of us!"]]

In 1984, a volcanic eruption awakened the Transformers, and their war for energy continued on Earth. Believing the Decepticons had been defeated, the Autobots entered into an alliance with Earth's governments for the energy needed to repair their ship and return to Cybertron, {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 3}} but the unanticipated return prompted Optimus Prime and his men to stay on Earth to defend the planet. {{storylink|Transport to Oblivion (episode)|Transport to Oblivion}} The Autobots rebuilt their spaceship to serve as their headquarters, integrating it with the volcano it lay in, and maintained a position of superiority on Earth over the following years, aided by their human allies in world's governments and the [[Witwicky]] family, and regularly bolstered by the addition of new troops from various quarters.
[[File:FightorFlee future autobots.jpg|thumb|upright=1.2]]
Over the next twenty years, the Decepticons managed to drive the Autobots from Cybertron, forcing them to operate out of two bases on Cybertron's moons with a reserve force at [[Autobot City (G1)|Autobot City]] on Earth. In 2005, learning that the Autobots were preparing a major assault, the Decepticons [[Battle of Autobot City|besieged Autobot City]], leading to a battle which saw the deaths of many Autobots, including Optimus Prime, who passed leadership to [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ultra Magnus]] before dying. Subsequently, the planet-eating [[Unicron]] attacked Cybertron, but the young Autobot [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]] was able to prove himself Optimus's true successor when he used the Matrix to destroy Unicron, transformed in the process by its power into Rodimus Prime. Under Rodimus's leadership, the Autobots routed the remaining Decepticons on Cybertron, shattered by Unicron's attack, and they finally retook their home planet. {{storylink|The Transformers: The Movie}}
The Autobots remained in control of Cybertron throughout 2006, slowly working to revitalize their homeworld while defending with comparative ease against various attacks by the surviving Decepticons, and the manipulations of the returned Quintessons. [[File:Rebirthpt2 headmasters charge.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.2]] They did not neglect their adopted home-world of Earth, either, regularly working with [[Earth Defense Command]] to protect the planet. {{storylink|Five Faces of Darkness}} Despite the successes enjoyed under his leadership, Rodimus Prime was never comfortable with the burden of command, and happily relinquished it when Optimus Prime was later restored to life. {{storylink|The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 2}}

In 2007, when the Decepticons mounted an all-out attack on Cybertron's [[Plasma Energy Chamber]], several Autobots were hurled across the galaxy by a blast of the chamber's power to the planet [[Nebulos]]. There, they became [[binary bonding|binary bonded]] to a cell of local rebels as [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] and [[Targetmaster (technology)|Targetmasters]], helping them to defeat the planet's evil rulers, the [[Hive (G1)|Hive]]. Returning to Cybertron with the key to the Plasma Energy Chamber, they were able to thwart the Decepticons' plan to destroy Cybertron and Earth with the chamber, instead using its power to revitalize their home-world and restore the Golden Age. {{storylink|The Rebirth}}
{{-}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
{{note|In Japanese cartoon continuity, the events of "The Rebirth" do not occur, and Headmasters and Targetmasters have a different origin.}}
[[File:FourWarriorsfromtheSky.jpg|thumb|upright=1.2]]

Following Optimus Prime's resurrection, the Decepticons retreated into hiding, allowing the Autobots to expand their operations. A new major command post was set up on the planet [[Athenia]], and plans were made to terraform the planet into a second Cybertron, but this was tabled when the Decepticons returned in 2011, attempting to seize control of Cybertron through [[Vector Sigma]]. {{storylink|Four Warriors Come out of the Sky}} Bolstered by the addition of Headmasters to their ranks—Cybertronians who had left their planet long ago and taken up residence on the planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], led by [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress]]—the Autobots were able to thwart their plan, but in the effort, Optimus Prime died once again, and Rodimus Prime became leader again. {{storylink|Birth of the Fantastic Double Prime}} Rodimus's tenure was short-lived when, after a Decepticon bomb plot resulted in the destruction of Cybertron, he passed leadership to Fortress and set off into space to find a new homeworld for the Transformers. {{storylink|Cybertron Is in Grave Danger, Part 2}} Under Fortress's leadership, the Autobots succeeded in preventing a Decepticon plan to destroy the Earth with [[plasma energy]], and finally forced the evil robots off the planet for good. {{storylink|The Final Showdown on Earth (Part 2)}}
[[File:FourChojinWarriors.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.2]]
The Autobots likewise withdrew from Earth, and, staging their operations from Athenia, proceeded to engage their enemies in a series of space-based exchanges known as the [[Master Wars]]. {{storylink|Master File No, 1}} Learning that the mysterious alien [[Devil Z]] had taken control of the Decepticons and had a scheme brewing on Earth, Fortress left defense of the planet to a small team of [[Pretender]]s led by [[Metalhawk (Masterforce)|Metalhawk]], who had been operating there in secret among human civilization since neolithic times. {{storylink|Rise Up!! Pretenders}} To protect Earth against Devil Z's schemes, the Pretenders recruited human beings to become merged with Transformer technology as [[Headmaster Junior]]s and [[Godmaster (lifeform)|Godmasters]], and the most powerful of their number, [[Ginrai (human)|Ginrai]], destroyed Devil Z in combat. {{storylink|A Battle... and Then...}}
[[File:Brainmasters victory cartoon.jpg|thumb|upright=1.2]]
Following Devil Z's defeat, the Decepticons reorganized under [[Deathsaurus (Victory)|Deathsaurus]] and began attacking planets all across the galaxy, prompting the Autobots to step up their game, allying with humanity and many other races to form the star-spanning [[Galactic Peace Alliance]]. The Autobot swordsman [[Star Saber (Victory)|Star Saber]] was appointed the Autobots' new Supreme Commander and head of the alliance's Galactic Defense Force, and led his elite [[Brainmaster]] and [[Multiforce]] troops in defending the Earth when it was targeted by Deathsaurus as a source of energy to re-power his [[Planet-Destroying Fortress]] in 2025. {{storylink|The Brave Hero of the Universe - Star Saber}}
[[File:SkyGarry1.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.2]]
Star Saber was later injured defending the planet [[Feminia]] against the [[Nine Great Demon Generals]] and was succeeded as Autobot leader by [[Powered Master]] [[Dai Atlas (Zone)|Dai Atlas]], who foiled the evil entity [[Violengiguar]]'s plans for conquest using the power of the enigmatic [[Zodiac]]. {{storylink|Transformers: Zone (franchise)|Zone}} The Zodiac presented a possible avenue to resurrect the legendary Optimus Prime, so Dai Atlas entrusted both it and interim Autobot leadership to [[Sky Garry (ROC)|Sky Garry]], who rescued Prime's body from the evil alien [[Dark Nova]]. Revived by the Zodiac as "Star Convoy," Prime destroyed Dark Nova. {{storylink|Transformers: Return of Convoy (franchise)|Return of Convoy}}

In the year [[2035]], with Autobot/Decepticon conflict mostly occurring in space once again, the Autobots and humanity joined forced to develop [[Power Core Combination]] technology. This powerful new tech drew the Decepticons' attention back to the planet, but the schemes of their current eader [[Scrash (OC)|Scrash]] were put down by the new Autobot Power Core Combiners, [[Guard City]], and the Micromaster six-combiners. {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: Operation Combination (franchise)|Operation Combination}} {{storylink|Transformers United EX|United EX}} Following this, the Autobots and Decepticons laid down their arms and united to established the [[Cybertron Alliance]], rebuilding Cybertron. Unfortunately, Megatron soon turned to evil again, and Optimus Prime was forced to battle and defeat him in the [[Mirtonian constellation]], apparently bring the war to an end once and for all. {{storylink|Transformers: G-2 (pack-in manga)|G-2}} Alas, the Autobots had not reckoned with the time-travelling [[Galvatron II]], who arrived from another timeline to take control of the Decepticons and continue the war, and so bolstered their ranks to fight back with mass-produced [[Eldedroid]]s. {{storylink|MP-1B Cybertron Commander / Convoy Black Ver.|e-HOBBY storyline}}
{{-}}

===''Beast Wars'' cartoon===
{{main|Maximal}}

During the Great War, the Autobots launched the ''Ark'', a warship containing their mightiest heroes. {{storylink|The Agenda (Part III)}} When the war reignited on Earth, the Autobots would be aided by the native humans, an act which history recorded as having been an important factor in securing an Autobot victory in the war. {{storylink|Code of Hero}}

The Autobots forced their foes to sign the [[Pax Cybertronia]] which secured the peace but left the Decepticons as second-class citizens though a few Decepticons were granted amnesty for their crimes. The Autobots would eventually be succeeded by the [[Maximal]]s who had little hard facts regarding their ancestors, viewing the Autobots as legendary figures as a result of the [[Maximal Elder]]s restricting the data. {{storylink|Beast Wars (Part 1)}} {{storylink| Possession}} {{storylink|The Agenda (Part 1)}} After [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] had near-fatally wounded [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]], it transpired that the latter's leadership was the sole reason the Autobots had won the war. {{storylink|The Agenda (Part III)}}

===''Beast Machines'' cartoon===
[[File:ProwlMaybe BM.jpg|left|upright=0.85|thumb|Where's your Pax Cybertronia now?]]
When [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]] subdued Cybertron's population with his [[Transformation virus|virus]], he extracted their sparks and used their bodies as raw materials for building [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]]. [[Optimus Primal (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Optimus Primal]] and his team discovered a junkyard/factory with acres of these corpses, one of which very clearly bore the Autobot symbol (and an uncanny resemblance to [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]]). {{storylink|Revelations Part I: Discovery}} Also, among the [[Vehicon general]]s were the revived Great War veterans [[Obsidian (BM)|Obsidian]] and [[Strika (BM)|Strika]], who may have been Autobots themselves. {{storylink|Sparkwar Pt. I: The Strike}}

===3H comics===
Many of the great Autobot and Decepticon heroes (such as Optimus Prime, Grimlock, Soundwave, and Megatron) retired to a strange quasi-reality called [[J'nwan]]. Almost all who tried to reach J'nwan and seek their aid succumbed to madness, and the ancient heroes did not appreciate being disturbed by any survivors. However, the great figures did eventually decide to fight once more at [[Point Omega]], an event which erased much of the timeline they had come from. It's unclear whether or not J'nwan or the events regarding it remained intact.

Meanwhile, some other Autobots and Decepticons, such as [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus]], [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]], and [[Devcon (G1)|Devcon]] did not enter J'nwan but remained active on Cybertron. Some Autobots became Maximals while others did not. {{storylink|Departure}} {{storylink|Betrayal}}

===2006 IDW ''Beast Wars'' continuity===
The three components of the combiner [[Magnaboss (BW)|Magnaboss]] are the Autobots [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]], [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]], and [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]]. They vanished after the [[Pax Cybertronia]] was signed, but it is said they will return in a time of great need. {{storylink|Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook|Beast Wars Sourcebook}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
[[File:AutoLitho.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb|Come on you bots! Do you want to live forever?!?]]
The Autobots arose as the group who sided with Sentinel Prime and the [[Council of Ancients]] and opposed Megatron's desire for the conquest of Cybertron, but their inexperience with warfare led to a serious tactical disadvantage. Sentinel Prime led the war effort for half a million years, until Megatron killed him in combat, hoping to secure the Matrix from him. Sentinel's successor, Optimus Prime, originally decided to evacuate Cybertron, fearing that, even if the Autobots won, Cybertron would be a wasteland. However, a subsequent encounter between Optimus Prime and Megatron, where he learned of the planetary engines the Decepticon leader hoped to power with the Matrix, convinced Prime to remain on Cybertron. {{storylink|Transformers: The War Within|The War Within}}

Later, Optimus Prime and Megatron disappeared in a space bridge explosion. Without strong leadership, both sides degenerated into factions. The [[Wrecker]]s and the [[Lightning Strike Coalition]] broke off from the main Autobot army, which was led by Prowl. {{storylink|Transformers: War Within: The Dark Ages|War Within: The Dark Ages}} After [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] took control of the Autobots, he reunified the factions, and manage to negotiate a cease-fire with [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave's]] Decepticons and Ratbat's [[Ultracon]]s. However, [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream's]] [[Predacon (War Within)|Predacons]] made a last ditch assault, and Megatron suddenly returned leading the [[Air Warrior|Aerospace Extermination Squadron]], an army of [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]] drones created by the Quintessons. Megatron managed to conquer Cybertron, forcing most of the Autobots into slavery and the escapees into hiding. The period of Autobot enslavement ended when Optimus Prime returned to Cybertron and the Air Warriors were destroyed. ''We don't know how.'' {{storylink|Transformers: War Within: The Age of Wrath|War Within: The Age of Wrath}}

Four million years before humans arose, Cybertron was threatened by a massive asteroid. The Autobots developed the ''Ark'' to destroy the asteroid. They were successful, but Megatron attacked with the ''Nemesis''. Both ships crashed on Earth, with both crews aboard the ''Ark''. On Cybertron, Ultra Magnus and [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] worked to keep the Autobots from splitting up again. With energon growing scarce, Magnus agreed to work with Shockwave to create the [[Micromaster]]s, downsized Transformers intended for better fuel efficiency. Magnus also launched [[Operation: Containment]], a twofold program intended to prevent the Decepticons from threatening other planets and locating the ''Ark''. {{storylink|Transformers: Micromasters}} However, with the [[Great Shutdown]], all Transformers entered a period of enforced [[stasis lock]]. Shockwave was the first to be reactivated, and made peace with the Autobots, installing himself as Head of State with an [[Autobot High Council]] as a legislature.

On Earth, the Autobots on the ''Ark'' awoke in 1984. Cut off from Cybertron, and seeing that a sentient species had evolved around them, the Autobots resolved to defend Earth from the Decepticons. Over the next fifteen years, the Autobots were largely successful at preventing a Decepticon conquest, while also befriending the [[Witwicky]] family. Eventually, the Autobots allied with the humans and defeated the Decepticons, capturing them. However, rogue elements of the United States Military, apparently being manipulated by Shockwave, sabotaged the ''[[Ark II]]'', capturing several Autobots and most of the Decepticons, until the chief scientist, [[Lazarus|Adam Rook]], went rogue and set himself up as an arms dealer. [[Robert Hallo]], the original mastermind of the conspiracy, used [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] to reactivate Optimus Prime, who revived the Autobots and stopped a reactivated Megatron. {{storylink|Prime Directive}} A year later, Shockwave came to tie up loose ends and acquire the Matrix from Prime. A rebel Autobot cell managed to rescue Prime, who united the other resistance groups, and Shockwave was overthrown, bringing Cybertron under Autobot control. {{storylink|War and Peace}}

===2005 IDW continuity===
Over four million years ago, "Autobot" was a term used by other races to describe Cybertronians. It was derived from "automaton", describing how the species lived routine, monotonous lives without any change. [[Optimus Prime (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Orion Pax]] was the first Transformer to lay claim to the name for their own use, saying it could stand for "autonomous" instead. {{storylink|Chaos Theory Part 2}} Under unknown circumstances, the name then came to be used by the [[Sentinel Prime (G1)|Sentinel Prime]]'s pre-war security forces. {{storylink|The Last Autobot}}

The symbol that would become the Autobot insignia was created over six million years ago by [[Onyx Prime]] to symbolize the alliance between eight [[Prime (rank)|Primes]], an alliance that would later become the [[Thirteen|Thirteen Primes]]. Onyx claimed that it was based on the face of [[Primus]] himself, described to him by [[Metrotitan (Zone)|Metrotitan]], but in reality, Onyx was a temporally displaced [[Shockwave (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Shockwave]] with the symbol being one of many ontological paradoxes he'd seeded history with. {{storylink|Origin Myths}} {{storylink|The Falling, Interlude: The First Who Was Named|The First Who Was Named}} As a symbol of the Primes' reign, it became considered a universal symbol of Cybertronians, and after their fall went on to be used by many other factions. {{storylink|Omega's Conundrum}} By the time of the [[Senate]], it was used to represent Sentinel Prime's Autobots. {{storylink|The Transformers: Megatron Origin|Megatron Origin}}

Following the uprising of [[Megatron (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Megatron]]'s Decepticon movement, [[Zeta Prime (G1)|Zeta Prime]] succeeded Sentinel and, joined by Orion Pax, refashioned the Autobots into an army to fight the Decepticons. However, Zeta's increasingly ruthless methods and neglect of the civilian populace made the faction widely unpopular. {{storylink|Law and Disorder}} Following Zeta's death, Orion Pax became Optimus Prime and convinced many neutral Cybertronians to join the Autobot army for the sake of defeating Megatron. {{storylink|Broadcast}}

With both Autobots and Decepticons now having powerful leaders and large armies, the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]] between them broke out. Eventually, the Autobots spread across the galaxy and formed into small units to counter the Decepticon units infiltrating various planets. The two sides joined forces to combat [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] and the ensuing battle rendered Cybertron uninhabitable. {{storylink|The Transformers: Stormbringer |Stormbringer}}

Once the war ended, the Autobots governed over a "reset" Cybertron in an [[Iacon (polity)|Iacon]] populated primarily by [[NAIL|returning neutrals]]. They were disliked by most neutrals, who held them equally responsible for the war as the Decepticons, prompting Optimus Prime to step down and pass the mantle of Autobot leader to [[Bumblebee (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Bumblebee]]. {{storylink|Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime|The Death of Optimus Prime}} Bumblebee's attempts to control the situation went poorly, and following a resurgence of violence between Autobots and Decepticons, the neutrals voted to exile both factions from the city. Some Autobots responded by leaving the faction and becoming neutrals themselves. {{storylink|Heavy Is the Head}} Following the [[Dark Cybertron (IDW)|Dark Cybertron]] event, they were allowed back into Iacon, and their fair trial of Megatron won back enough of the public trust that the neutrals even stopped referring to them as the "Autobot regime". {{storylink|World, Shut Your Mouth Part 2: Words Hang in the Air|Words Hang in the Air}} By contrast, the humans viewed Megatron joining the Autobots as a betrayal, being incentive enough for them to agree to an alliance with [[Galvatron (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Galvatron]]. {{storylink|Earthfall Part 2: Detonation Boulevard|Detonation Boulevard}}

The Autobots experienced a major PR boost when Optimus Prime raised Metrotitan live on camera. {{storylink|All Hail Optimus Part 5: As Above...So Below|As Above...So Below}} After Galvatron had been slain, {{storylink|All Hail Optimus Part 6: No Fair Fights|No Fair Fights}} Optimus toured the [[Cybertronian colonies|colony worlds]] and recruited [[Colonist Soldiers|a new generation of Autobots]]. {{storylink|Post}}

Soon enough, Onyx Prime returned to Cybertron and revealed himself as Shockwave. {{storylink|The Falling, Chapter 6: Unforgivable|Unforgivable}} When the final stage of Shockwave's master plan, [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]] activated and launched its attack on the galaxy, the [[Autobot fleet]] tried to defend both the colonies, {{storylink|Last Stand (Unicron)|Last Stand}} {{storylink|Stranger Eons}} and Cybertron from the monster but were forced to evacuate their homeworld for Earth, leaving Cybertron to be destroyed. {{storylink|Our Finest}} {{storylink|Road's End}} Once Unicron had been felled, the Autobots settled onto Earth as their new home. {{storylink|Ceremony}} {{storylink|Post}}

===''Beast Wars: Uprising''===
After [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|a Predacon from an alternate future]] had slain Optimus Prime, {{storylink|A Change to the Agenda}} the Autobots reactivated in 1984 under the command of an unidentified leader. The Mini-Bots attempted to respond to a Decepticon raid at the [[British Museum]] but failed to stop their foes from making off with their prize. {{storylink|Cultural Appropriation}} In 1993, the Autobots worked with the humans to construct a [[warp gate]] on the edge of the Sol system. The war later moved off Earth and grew increasingly violent.

Ten years later however, Autobot/Human relations had deteriorated significantly as a result of the pan-galactic collateral damage to the point that the [[Earth Defense Command]] was formed to fight against all Cybertronians before a battle on [[New Earth]] caused humans to declare their space off-limits to Cybertronians. In 2026, the Autobot shuttle ''[[Star Arrow]]'' asked the human world of [[Tamil Duniya]] for aid only to be destroyed. {{storylink|Micro-Aggressions}}

At some point during the 21st century, the Autobots and Decepticons joined forces to save their homeworld from [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]] before the war resumed. {{storylink|The Inexorable March}} After the Decepticons had invaded the planet [[Nebulos]], the Autobots travelled there to combat their foes, managing to use [[Nebulan]] technology to resurrect Optimus Prime. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}} {{storylink|Derailment}} The arrival of the [[Confederated Terran Colonial Fleet]] turned the Nebulan war hot. The Autobots responded to the violence by creating [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]], an act which ultimately ended in the [[Scouring of Nebulos]]. The sheer loss of life resulted in the humans containing all Cybertronians in the [[Allowed Zone]]. The Autobots then fought [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]]'s troops for control of the Allowed Zone but were ultimately defeated, forcing them to fall back to Cybertron. {{storylink|Micro-Aggressions}}

After [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] seized control of the Decepticons and the [[Underbase]], the Autobots joined with the not-completely bonkers Decepticons to combat this mutual threat. Once Thunderwing had been defeated, the Autobots and Decepticons reorganized themselves as the [[Builder of Cybertron|Builders of Cybertron]]. With [[Vector Sigma]] lost to them, [[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]] constructed the [[Energon Matrix]] to creates the Maximals, the successors to the Autobots. {{storylink|Broken Windshields}} {{storylink|Head Games}} {{storylink|Safe Spaces}}

During a raid on [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]], [[Buzzclaw (BW)|Buzzclaw]] despaired that the Autobot symbol, once a symbol of hope and freedom, had become the symbol of the new generation of tyrants. {{storylink|Head Games}}

===''Of Masters and Mayhem''===
Once the ruling faction on Cybertron, the Autobots quickly found themselves outmatched by the Decepticon aggressors. {{storylink|The Truth We Make}} As the war continued with no end in sight, the Autobots commissioned Project: Ark to escape their wartorn world and serve as a representation of their hope that the war would one day end. {{storylink|The Toxic Transformer}} A few individual Autobots abandoned the cause and struck out on their own as the conflict continued. {{storylink|Life Finds a Way}}

The Decepticons eventually unleashed [[Thunder Mayhem]] on the planet, the combiner's destructive rampage wiping out Cybertronian civilization, the Autobots included. With Optimus Prime presumed, but not actually, dead, the Autobots were, for all intents and purposes, dissolved, factional allegiances taking on far less significance in the post-Cybertron era. {{storylink|Foundation and Wreckage Part 1: Deadly Aim|Deadly Aim}}

===Ask Vector Prime===
In [[Primax 185.0 Beta]], the Autobots launched the [[S.T.A.R.S.]] initiative. While the program met with initial successes, it would have disastrous long-reaching consequences as the Decepticons responded to it by creating the [[Decepto-Pack]]s, their [[hypno-chip]] derived technology enslaving hordes of [[human]]s that the Autobots proved unwilling to fire against. As a result, [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] ordered the humans to construct a fleet of [[Zod]] drones, their raw power driving the Autobots to extinction, only [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] being known to survive. With their foes defeated, the [[Decepticon Empire]] launched an aggressive campaign of galactic conquest. The legacy of the Autobots would live however as Ratchet, aided by the [[Dreadnok]]s, managed to kill [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]]. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/06/04}}

===''Star Trek vs. Transformers''===
When an [[asteroid belt]] threatened to destroy Cybertron, the Autobots launched the ''Ark'' to clear a path for their homeworld. The task done, they were then boarded by the Decepticons, the ''Ark'' crashing on the nearby [[Earth]]. When the two factions awoke in the 1980s, they commenced a secret war over the planet's energon supply, the Autobots working alongside a handful of humans. Earth, however, soon fell victim to the [[Eugenics Wars]] and later [[World War III]], Optimus Prime deciding to abandon the blighted world aboard Fortress Maximus. Witnessing the extreme level of savagery and barbarism that humanity had inflicted upon itself left the Autobots with a decidedly low opinion of those whom they'd once sworn to protect.

After decades in space, the Autobots found the energon rich world of [[Cygnus Seven]] only to be once again boarded and sent crashing by the Decepticons. This time, they reawakened in the 23rd century by a [[Federation]] mining party that had roused Maximus' autonomic security protocols. Though the Autobots initially clashed with the landing party of the [[USS Enterprise|USS ''Enterprise'']], they soon allied with them against the Decepticon/[[Klingon]] alliance. {{storylink|Prime's Directive, Part Two}} {{storylink|Prime's Directive, Part Three}}

The Decepticons, however, promptly abandoned the battle after Starscream had absconded with a bounty of [[dilithium]]. Brought to the ''Enterprise'', the Autobots used Cybertronian engineering to more quickly repair the ship. {{storylink|Prime's Directive, Part Four}} During the flight, the Autobots helped build the "[[Crewbot]]s" allowing their allies to join them on [[Kronos]], the capital of the [[Klingon Empire]]. Backed up by [[Starfleet]] and the Klingons, the Autobots reengaged their foes only to fall victim to Soundwave's audio disruptor waves, being saved by the Klingons, deaf to Soundwave's frequency, summoning a fleet of [[Warbird (Star Trek)|warbirds]]. In the aftermath, the [[Klingon High Council]] allowed the Autobots to go in peace, though at the cost of leaving the Decepticons on Kronos. While [[James T. Kirk]] invited the Autobots back to the now peaceful Earth, Optimus declined, feeling his people's destiny lied elsewhere, and the Autobots resumed their own interstellar voyage. {{storylink|Prime's Directive, Part Five}}

===2019 IDW continuity===
The Autobots were the oldest known faction on Cybertron. {{storylink|Orion Pax: Free Fall}} The movement's founder carried the [[Matrix of Leadership]] with the talisman subsequently becoming the symbol of office for the Autobot leader. {{storylink|War World: Titans|Titans}} Over time, the Autobots accumulated enough political power to become Cybertron's ruling body. They fought in [[War of the Threefold Spark|a war]] against [[Exarchon]]'s [[Threefold Spark]] under the leadership of [[Nominus Prime]]. In the aftermath of the conflict, Nominus passed the [[Nominus Edict]], a law designed to help Cybertronian society heal. {{storylink|Orion Pax: Free Fall}}

In the modern day, [[Sentinel Prime (G1)|Sentinel Prime]] had succeeded Nominus as Autobot leader. By this time, Autobot law was increasingly frowned on by the common citizenry who began viewing the outdated policies as ones of constraint more than self-restraint. {{storylink|The Cracks Beneath Your Feet Part Two}} Despite this, the Autobots still held the majority in the [[Senate]]. {{storylink|The Cracks Beneath Your Feet Part Four}}

===''Transformers/Ghostbusters''===
With the Great War lost to them, the Autobots fled Cybertron, the ''Ark'' launching minutes before [[Gozer]] arrived to destroy their planet. Believing themselves the last Cybertronians in the universe, the Autobots drifted aimlessly in the ''Ark'' before they picked up a Cybertronian signal from the planet Earth, sending [[Ectotron|Ectronymous Diamatron]] to investigate. {{storylink|Ghosts of Cybertron Part 1}} After befriending the [[Ghostbusters]], Ectronymous found the source of the signal was the [[ghost]] of Starscream who'd sent out a signal to speak to the Autobots in the hopes that they could help him return to life. {{storylink|Ghosts of Cybertron Part 2}}

After Optimus Prime had been summoned to Earth, {{storylink|Ghosts of Cybertron Part 3}} it was found that Starscream was working with the supernatural entity [[Kremzeek]] the Scavenger who sought the [[AllSpark]]. With the help of the [[Ghostbusters]], Optimus and Ectronymous - now calling himself "Ectotron" - were able to dispel Kremzeek but this act freed the trapped ghosts of [[Decepticon High Command]]. {{storylink|Ghosts of Cybertron Part 4}} While Starscream managed to flee the planet, Megatron, Shockwave, Soundwave, were imprisoned in [[ghost trap]]s with Optimus taking them back to the ''Ark'' in the hopes of rehabilitating them before reviving them while Ectotron went his own way, becoming the first interstellar Ghostbuster as he searched for any other lost Cybertronian ghosts. {{storylink|Ghosts of Cybertron Part 5}}

===''War for Cybertron Trilogy'' cartoon===
{{groupstub|{{storylink|Siege episode 1}}{{storylink|Siege episode 2}}{{storylink|Siege episode 3}} {{storylink|Siege episode 4}}{{storylink|Siege episode 5}}{{storylink|Siege episode 6}}{{storylink|Earthrise episode 1}}{{storylink|Earthrise episode 2}}{{storylink|Earthrise episode 3}}{{storylink|Earthrise episode 4}}{{storylink|Earthrise episode 5}}{{storylink|Earthrise episode 6}}}}

===''Transformers vs. The Terminator''===
Millions of years prior to the human era, the ''Ark'' crashed on Earth, knocking the Autobots and Decepticons aboard in stasis. In the year 1984, the ship rebooted and reactivated [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] who proceeded to revive the rest of the Decepticons who executed most of the Autobots. {{storylink|Enemy of My Enemy Part Two}} A few of their number survived to leave the ship but they had all been killed by the year [[2029]]. {{storylink|Enemy of My Enemy Part One}}

To prevent the Decepticon conquest of Earth, the AI [[Skynet]] sent a single [[T-800]] back to 1984 to destroy the Cybertronians. Its interference caused Optimus Prime to survive who proposed an alliance between his forces and the T-800 to defeat the Decepticons. {{storylink|Enemy of My Enemy Part Two}}

After Arcee, Ratchet, Velocity and Wheeljack had been brought online, the Autobots located the Decepticons and quickly set out to meet them. During the subsequent battle at a [[Cyberdyne Systems]] facility, the Autobots were betrayed by the T-800, which had helped itself to their explosives, who remotely detonated [[Mount St. Hilary]] and buried the ''Ark''. {{storylink|Enemy of My Enemy Part Three}}

When Starscream betrayed the Decepticons, the Autobots managed to turn the tide of the battle. Once the Seekers and Insecticons had been taken prisoner, Starscream flew off before the T-800 and [[Sarah Connor]] destroyed Soundwave. Following the death of Megatron, the Autobots parted ways with Sarah and returned to the ''Ark'', only to discover the T-800's duplicity. Unable to return to Cybertron without the Ark, Optimus proposed an alliance between Autobot and Decepticon until they could find another way home. With their situational allies, the Autobots made their way on Earth, covertly observed by Sarah who did her best to hide them from the world. {{storylink|Enemy of My Enemy Part Four}}

===''My Little Pony/Transformers''===
While battling for control of a malfunctioning [[Space bridge|spacebridge]], a gaggle of Autobots were [[magic]]ally transported to [[Equestria]] by [[Queen Chrysalis]]. The friendly and rational sort, the Autobots quickly made allies with the equines who inhabited the land. {{storylink|Transformation Is Magic}}

Aware that the Decepticons would regroup and launch an attack on the ponies, Optimus traveled Equestria with [[Twilight Sparkle]] to rally the scattered Autobots, mustering the troops in time to mount a defense of the [[Crystal Empire]] against the Decepticon/[[changeling]] alliance. As the battle raged, a spacebridge opened through which Grimlock and Twilight's assistant [[Spike (MLP)|Spike]] came through. Realizing that changeling magic was not required to return to Cybertron, Optimus combined the power of the Matrix of Leadership with Twilight's magic of friendship, returning the Decepticons to Cybertron. After a delightful tea and energon party, the Autobots returned home, Optimus destroying the spacebridge to protect Equestria from further Decepticon incursions. {{storylink|Finale (Friendship in Disguise!)|Finale}}

When the Decepticons managed to open a new space bridge to Equestria and began pilfering magical relics, a clash with Twilight and her friends caused [[King Sombra]] to be unleashed on Sombra. Enthralling several ponies and Decepticons, the Autobots, at the firm insistence of [[Applejack]] and [[Rarity]], joined forces with the remaining Decepticons to combat the invader. {{storylink|The Magic of Cybertron}}

===''Transformers/Back to the Future''===
By [[2015]], the Autobots had emerged as the victors of the Great War. When [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]], having used [[Doc Brown]]'s [[DeLorean time machine]] to skip ahead to 2015, witnessed this, he stole the time vehicle to retroactively win the war. Breaking into the ''Ark'' ahead of schedule, Rumble hacked into Teletraan-I and had it revive only the Decepticons. When informed of Rumble's journey, Megatron turned his [[fusion cannon]] on the Autobots. What few survived became a, literal, underground resistance led by Rodimus Prime. {{storylink|Transformers/Back to the Future issue 2|Transformers/Back to the Future #2}}

The Decepticon turncoat [[Gigawatt]] and [[Marty McFly]] eventually managed to travel back to 1984 and reactivate the Autobots before Rumble arrived. After the Decepticon had been defeated and Marty used the DeLorean to return to 2015, the Autobots recruited [[Biff Tannen]] as their local mechanic and guide, defending the Earth for the next thirty-one years until Marty returned. {{storylink|Transformers/Back to the Future issue 4|Transformers/Back to the Future #4}}

==2001 ''Robots in Disguise'' cartoon==
Here, the Autobots are the main race on Cybertron, and their enemies are the [[Predacon (BW)|Predacons]]. The Autobots fought in the [[Cybertronian Civil Wars]], presumably against the Predacons. [[Vector Sigma]], the [[Transformer afterlife|Allspark]], chooses which Autobot is to be granted the Matrix and thus the position of commander-in-chief.

The Autobots were already on [[Earth]] when the Predacons arrived, having taken the form of Earth vehicles to work as camouflage and established a [[Global Space Bridge]] network and a central base monitoring the entire planet.

In their disguises, the Autobots integrated themselves into human society; [[Team Bullet Train]] worked as actual trains, [[X-Brawn]] was owned as a car by [[Kelly (RID)|Kelly]], and Optimus Prime was working for a fire department. This continued after they went public; both [[Prowl (RID)|Prowl]] and [[Tow-Line (RID)|Tow-Line]], for example, were shown enforcing human laws in an apparently official capacity, suggesting the Autobots had official ties to human authorities.

It's known Optimus fought the Predacons on other worlds, presumably using the same tactics as on Earth.

==Unicron Trilogy continuity family==
===Dreamwave comic continuity===
====Dreamwave ''Armada'' comic====
Originally, the Autobots were not a faction, but the name of a peacekeeping organization; under the command of [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]], they defended [[Cyber City]]. Their headquarters was adorned with the motto "Truth - Justice - Freedom". They were unable to stop the [[Mini-Con]]-powered Decepticons from taking Cyber City, and for a million years they were reduced to a rebel organization desperately trying & failing to protect Cybertron. The reactivation of the Mini-Cons on Earth gave the Autobots an opportunity to gain Mini-Con power of their own, but eventually the Decepticons were beaten not by them, but due to the attack of [[Unicron]].

===Cartoon continuity===
====''Armada'' cartoon====
[[File:Conspiracy-Welcome back.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1]]

Four million years prior to 2010, [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/Cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] led the Autobots into the war against the [[Decepticon]]s for control of the [[Mini-Con]]s. When the Mini-Cons expressed a desire to leave the conflict however, Optimus Prime agreed to aid them, ordering the construction of the ''[[Exodus (Armada)|Exodus]]'' to allow them to leave Cybertron. Despite the Mini-Cons' departure, the war continued without them. {{storylink|Prehistory}}

In the year 2010, the ''Exodus'' reactivated and sent a signal back to Cybertron. Optimus Prime led his inner circle to the distant planet Earth to reclaim the Mini-Cons, {{storylink|First Encounter}} leaving [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]] in command. {{storylink|Prehistory}}

After the Mini-Cons had been recovered, Optimus' force returned to Cybertron in time for the planet to be threatened by [[Unicron]]. {{storylink|Uprising (Armada)|Uprising}} Entering into a formal alliance with the Decepticons to defeat Unicron, {{storylink|Alliance}} the Autobots managed to fell the Chaos Bringer. [[Megatron (Armada)/Cartoon continuity|Galvatron]] sacrificed himself during the course of the battle, leaving behind an order for his troops to work with the Autobots. {{storylink|Mortal Combat}}

====''Energon'' cartoon====
[[File:Energon Tower groupshot.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4|left]]
Megatron's final orders to his troops still stood: work with the Autobots. The Decepticons maintained a degree of autonomy, still wearing the faction sigil and often taking military/defensive positions in the growing number of energon-mining colonies, but they were ultimately answerable to [[Optimus Prime (Armada)/Cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] and the Autobots. There were, of course, dissenters, most of whom were captured and imprisoned. For a decade, Autobot and Decepticon worked side by side in a somewhat stable truce. {{storylink|Cybertron City (episode)|Cybertron City}}

Both sides found themselves the target of attacks from Unicron again; hordes of Terrorcon drones, sent by Alpha Quintesson to steal energon ore with which to revive the now-shattered husk of Unicron. What the alien did not count on was that Megatron's spark had survived within the remains, and was siphoning energon from Unicron's body. Soon the Decepticon leader had revived himself in a new form, driven off Alpha Quintesson, and, along with an elite cadre of soldiers and a seemingly inexhaustible supply of mindless Terrorcon drones, begun his new plans for conquest. {{storylink|Energon Stars}}

When news of Megatron's return reached Cybertron, hundreds of Decepticons rose up and rebelled, eager to get back to conquering. {{storylink|Megatron's Sword}} But having been joined to Unicron for so long apparently had given Megatron a taste of godhood; he had no more interest in amassing a galaxy-spanning army of troops. Countless Decepticons died in the resulting battles, with Megatron more than willing to sacrifice them without a thought to attain ultimate power for himself. As the "Powerlinx Battles" - as they came to be called - came to their climax, Megatron found that his actions and thoughts were being influenced and controlled by the dark spark of Unicron. Unwilling to let Unicron stand in his way, Megatron ultimately sacrificed himself (again) and seemingly destroyed Unicron's spark by plunging himself into a newly formed energon sun created by Primus. {{storylink|The Sun}}

====''Cybertron'' cartoon====
[[File:Cyb ep22 autobots together.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1]]
Another ten years after Energon, the energon sun created by Primus was gone, collapsed into the [[Unicron Singularity]], a giant black hole threatening to devour all of existence. Faced with Cybertron's destruction, the Autobots evacuated the populace to Earth. As the evacuation began, [[Vector Prime]] approached [[Autobot High Command]] and told them that only the [[Cyber Planet Key]]s and the [[Omega Lock]] could close the black hole. {{storylink|Fallen (episode)|Fallen}} {{storylink|Inferno (episode)|Inferno}}

Unwilling to so readily dive back into mysticism, the Autobots continued to explore technological means of collapsing the black hole, such as a [[gravitron grid]] but were ultimately forced to follow Vector Prime's plan. {{storylink|Hidden}}

The search for the Cyber Keys led them to [[Velocitron]], {{storylink|Landmine (episode)|Landmine}} and the [[Jungle Planet (colony)|Jungle Planet]]. {{storylink|Search (episode)|Search}} After acquiring the Cyber Keys of both colonies, and Earth's, the Autobots brought the three Keys and the Omega Lock to the core of Cybertron, using the [[Matrix of Leadership]] as a substitute for the missing Key, and triggered Primus' transformation to robot mode. {{storylink|Cybertron (episode)|Cybertron}}

The god informed the Autobots that the fourth key, on the planet [[Gigantion]], had been dragged into another universe. {{storylink| Balance}} With the [[Ogygia (Cybertron)|''Ogygia'']], the Autobots travelled to the lost colony. {{storylink|Warp}}

Though the Autobots managed to claim the last Key, {{storylink|Optimus (episode)|Optimus}} Galvatron managed to claim the Lock and the Keys, stranding the Autobots in the other reality, {{storylink|Showdown (Cybertron)|Showdown}} the Autobots only managing to return home, at the moment that they'd left, through Vector Prime's sacrifice. {{storylink|Guardian (episode)|Guardian}}

With Galvatron threatening the universe with total event collapse, the Autobots found reinforcements from the whole of their species. {{storylink|Homecoming (episode)|Homecoming}} When Primus managed to reclaim his full power, he sealed the black hole. {{storylink|End}}

In the new era of peace, the Autobots embarked on a new era of colonization, in honor of their ancestors' dream. {{storylink| Beginning}}

==Live-action film series==
{{quote|"Behind the lines during the war they called him many things... 'nice' was never one of them."|Sir [[Edmund Burton]]|[[Transformers: The Last Knight (film)|Transformers: The Last Knight]]}}

[[File:Movie Sam Mikaela meettheAutobots.jpg|thumb|upright=1.67|Hello [[Michael Bay]]. Goodbye childhood.]]
The Autobots (autonomous robotic organisms) are the second Cybertronian civilization, being the descendants of the early workers who served the [[Dynasty of Primes]]. Following the outbreak of the war, the Autobots became the Transformers who rallied around [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus]], the last of the Primes, to prevent [[Megatron (Movie)|Protector Megatron]] from claiming the [[AllSpark]]. They were formed mostly from the [[Science Division]], the [[Security Force]], and what few members of the [[Defense Force]] rejected Megatron's violent ambitions. Although they fought valiantly, the Decepticons were more warlike, and they began to gain ground. {{storylink|Transformers: Defiance|Defiance}}

In a move to prevent the Decepticons from acquiring the AllSpark, Prime sent it hurtling into deep space. Megatron followed, and disappeared. After years of warfare, the Autobot resistance abandoned Cybertron once it had fallen into the Decepticons' grasp. Optimus had the scout [[Bumblebee (Movie)|B-127]] establish a base on a well-hidden planet called [[Earth]] while he and others would gather the scattered Autobots searching for the AllSpark across the universe. {{storylink|Transformers: Movie Prequel|Movie Prequel}} {{storylink|Bumblebee (film)|Bumblebee}}

Following some twelve thousand years of searching, the Autobots encountered a stranded vessel in space. Known as ''[[Ghost 1]]'', the creatures aboard, named humans, revealed that they had developed the ship based on studies from Megatron. Recognizing that Megatron would destroy their world if he came back online, Optimus tried to send them back to Earth, but they sacrificed their lives to save Optimus from [[Starscream (Movie)|Starscream]]. Already suspecting that the AllSpark was on their homeworld, the Autobots made efforts to find Earth. {{storylink|Transformers: Ghosts of Yesterday|Ghosts of Yesterday}} In [[1987]], Optimus and others made planetfall shortly after B-127, now calling himself "Bumblebee", had prevented the Decepticons [[Shatter]] and [[Dropkick (Movie)|Dropkick]] from rallying the Decepticon army to the planet. {{storylink|Bumblebee (film)|Bumblebee}}

By the early 2000s, the Autobots discovered a link to the AllSpark with [[Sam Witwicky]]. Bumblebee came into Sam's possession, and contacted Optimus Prime. Prime came to Earth with [[Jazz (Movie)|Jazz]], [[Ironhide (Movie)|Ironhide]], and [[Ratchet (Movie)|Ratchet]] to retrieve the AllSpark and eliminate Megatron, fearing the Decepticon would use the Cube to raise an army from human technology. However, Starscream's retrieval team was also on Earth, having come for the AllSpark. The Autobots were further hampered by [[Sector Seven]], the human agency tasked with dealing with Transformers. Eventually forming a brief truce with Sector Seven and a group of Army Rangers who had encountered [[Blackout (Movie)|Blackout]] and [[Scorponok (Movie)|Scorponok]], the Autobots fought off the Decepticons in [[Mission City]], which saw the deaths of Megatron, Blackout, [[Bonecrusher (Movie)|Bonecrusher]], and [[Brawl (Movie)|Brawl]], but Jazz was killed and the AllSpark destroyed when Sam Witwicky extinguished Megatron's spark. Without a means to restore Cybertron, the Autobots decided to remain on Earth, and Optimus Prime sent a message into space for Autobots to come and protect their new home and newfound allies in humanity. {{storylink|Transformers (film)|Transformers}}

Over the next two years, more Autobots including [[Arcee (Movie)|Arcee]] and [[Chromia (ROTF)|her]] [[Elita-One (Movie)|sisters]], [[Sideswipe (Movie)|Sideswipe]], [[Twins (ROTF)|the Twins]], and [[Jolt (ROTF)|Jolt]] began making their way to Earth and joined a human military force known as [[NEST]]. Under the classified Autobot Alien cooperation act, the Autobots entrusted the remaining AllSpark shard to humanity and gave them intelligence about the Decepticons they were facing. However, the Autobots refused to share weapons technology with humanity, knowing their history internecine warfare. {{storylink|Transformers: Alliance}} {{storylink|Transformers: The Veiled Threat|The Veiled Threat}}

In 2009, NEST had five encounters with the Decepticons on different continents, indicating that the Decepticons were searching for something. During a sweep of [[Shanghai]], NEST encountered [[Demolishor (ROTF)|Demolishor]] and [[Sideways (ROTF)|Sideways]], who caused substantial damage to the city during their attempts to escape. Although they were neutralized, Demolishor relayed a warning to Optimus Prime: "[[The Fallen]] shall rise again". Following this, NEST returned to their base of operations at [[Diego Garcia]], where they relayed the warning to [[Morshower|General Morshower]] and [[Theodore Galloway|Director Galloway]]. Having been appointed liaison by the President, Galloway concluded that the Decepticons only interest in Earth was to hunt down the Autobots. Unfortunately, Galloway also revealed both Megatron's resting place and the presence of the shard on Diego Garica. [[Soundwave (ROTF)|Soundwave]] was listening to the briefing, and directed [[Ravage (ROTF)|Ravage]] and the [[Constructicon (ROTF)|Constructicons]] to raise Megatron. Meeting with his master, The Fallen, Megatron was commanded to retrieve Sam Witwicky, who had absorbed the knowledge of the AllSpark, and kill Optimus Prime, the only one who could defeat The Fallen. Optimus died helping Sam escape, and the Decepticons launched multiple attacks to have the humans turn Sam over to them. Galloway used the attacks as an excuse to have himself placed in charge of NEST and place the Autobots under guard.

Meanwhile, Sam, his girlfriend [[Mikaela Banes]], and his roommate [[Leo Spitz]] were being hidden by Bumblebee and the Twins [[Skids (ROTF)|Skids]] and [[Mudflap (ROTF)|Mudflap]], and with help from [[Seymour Simmons]] of Sector Seven, discovered Decepticon-turned-Autobot [[Jetfire (Movie)|Jetfire]], who told them that the Fallen, one of the founders of the Dynasty of Primes, was looking for the Matrix of Leadership needed to activate the [[Star Harvester]], which would destroy Earth's sun and make energon. As only a Prime could defeat the Fallen, Sam and his group started a search for the Matrix and located it, leading to a massive battle with the Decepticons near the Star Harvester during which Sam tried reach Optimus to resurrect him and the Decepticons attempted to stop him and get the Matrix. After most of the Decepticons were killed, Megatron killed Sam, but he was resurrected by the Dynasty of Primes and granted the Matrix which he used to resurrect Optimus Prime. With help from Jetfire, who sacrificed himself to give him his parts, Optimus was able to destroy the Harvester, defeat Megatron, leaving him seriously injured and kill the Fallen. {{storylink|Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (film)|Revenge of the Fallen}}

A few years later, as there had been no major contact with the Decepticons since the death of the Fallen, the Autobots helped set up [[energon detector]]s in Earth's major cities to watch for a Decepticon presence. The Autobots, now common knowledge among Earth's people, helped out with major human threats. After Colonel Lennox learned of something alien at Chernobyl, the Autobots traveled there and encountered [[Shockwave (Movie)|Shockwave]] and his [[Driller]] after retrieving a mysterious part. After Shockwave was driven off, Optimus was shocked to discover that it was an engine part from the long-lost ''[[Ark (DOTM)|Ark]]'', which had crashed on the Moon. He and Ratchet traveled to the ''Ark'' and recovered five of the [[space bridge]] [[pillar]]s along with [[Sentinel Prime (ROTF)|Sentinel Prime]] who was revived by the Matrix of Leadership. Sentinel eventually revealed himself to be a traitor, murdered Ironhide and used the space bridge to bring an army of over 200 Decepticons to Earth. Earth's governments forced the Autobots off the planet, with the Decepticons attempting to learn the Autobots' plans to fight back via Sam. Without revealing any plans, the Autobots left Earth in the ''[[Xantium (DOTM)|Xantium]]'' and were apparently destroyed by [[Starscream (Movie)|Starscream]].

The Decepticons, led by Megatron and Sentinel Prime took over the human city of [[Chicago]] unopposed and prepared to bring Cybertron to Earth to use Earth's natural resources and its people as slaves to rebuild their home. The Autobots, who faked their deaths to trick the Decepticons, arrived in Chicago and linked up with a team of humans led by [[Sam Witwicky]] and former NEST soldier [[Robert Epps]] who were determined to fight even against overwhelming odds. With the help of the team and later NEST, the Autobots launched an attack on the city and together the Autobots and humans managed to kill [[Laserbeak (DOTM)|Laserbeak]], the Driller, Starscream, [[Soundwave (ROTF)|Soundwave]], Barricade, Shockwave and many other Decepticons, losing only [[Wheeljack (Movie)|Que]] and possibly Wheelie and Brains in the process. Optimus Prime battled Sentinel Prime and though Optimus was defeated and nearly killed, Megatron suddenly turned on Sentinel and severely maimed him, having realized that he would never be able to remain leader of the Decepticons as long as Sentinel was alive. Meanwhile, the Control Pillar was destroyed by Bumblebee, and the collapsing space bridge destroyed Cybertron and the remaining Decepticon forces in Chicago. Megatron then tried to deceive Optimus into thinking that he wanted peace, but Optimus saw through the ruse and killed his seemingly eternal foe. Optimus then terminated Sentinel. {{storylink|Transformers: Dark of the Moon (film)|Dark of the Moon}}

However, after the devastation of Chicago, the Autobots' alliance with the humans was officially dissolved, and NEST disbanded, while [[Harold Attinger]] of the CIA was tasked with hunting down the remaining Decepticons. Attinger's unit, a secret cabal of the CIA known as "Cemetery Wind", instead set out to destroy all Transformers, Autobot and Decepticon alike. The public and even the White House were kept under the impression that Cemetery Wind was only hunting down the Decepticons and that they were preparing to send the Autobots away from Earth. When he learned of Cemetery Wind's mission, Optimus sent a distress signal to his troops, warning them of the betrayal and to run for their lives. The Autobots scattered, some remaining in groups and some striking out on their own. The neutral [[Lockdown (ROTF)|Lockdown]], who was hunting Optimus for his own reasons, assisted Attinger's lieutenant [[James Savoy]] in hunting down the Transformers. Five years after the Chicago battle, [[Ratchet (Movie)|Ratchet]], [[Leadfoot (DOTM)|Leadfoot]], [[Sideswipe (Movie)|Sideswipe]], and the majority of the Autobots had been slaughtered, their remains being used by Joshua Joyce's KSI to produce man-made Transformers, intending to replace the Autobots as humanity's protectors.

Around the same time of the demise of Ratchet, Optimus narrowly survived an ambush and went into hiding as a rusty old cabover truck. Optimus was inadvertedly discovered by [[Cade Yeager]], and befriended the struggling inventor. The two escaped Savoy and Lockdown with Cade's daughter [[Tessa Yeager|Tessa]] and her boyfriend [[Shane Dyson|Shane]]. After taking a new vehicle form, Optimus met up with the surviving Autobots - Bumblebee, [[Drift (AOE)|Drift]], [[Hound (Movie)|Hound]], and [[Crosshairs (AOE)|Crosshairs]], with the sad truth that they were the last Autobots on the planet sinking in as they learned of Leadfoot's demise. The Autobots assisted in infiltrating KSI, until they were informed of Ratchet's gruesome fate. Optimus snapped, and led a ferocious assault on KSI, also freeing the imprisoned [[Brains]] along the way. However, Joyce confronted the Autobots, declaring humans didn't need the Autobots anymore, who were now little more than outdated technology for humanity to abuse. Disgusted, the Autobots left, but were pursued by KSI's Galvatron and [[Stinger (AOE)|Stinger]], which resulted in Optimus and Tessa's capture by Lockdown.

In Chicago, the Autobots snuck aboard Lockdown's ship with Cade and Shane to rescue their friends, and succeeded in detaching a smaller ship from the whole before Lockdown learned of Optimus' escape. After regrouping and learning that Galvatron was a rebuilt Megatron plotting to use the Seed to kill millions of humans, Optimus ordered the Autobots to depart Earth forever and leave the humans to their fate. He was only convinced to stay when Cade convinced Optimus to have faith in who humanity could be. Hound and Bumblebee ended up separated from the group when they tried to retrieve the Seed from a repentant Joyce, only for Galvatron's new Decepticons to shoot down their ship. In the Wulong Valley, Optimus recruited the [[Dinobot (AOE)|Dinobots]] to join them, which they did after he beat some obedience into [[Grimlock (AOE)|Grimlock]]. The Dinobots' assistance proved invaluable in turning the tide against the Decepticons, who had nearly overwhelmed Hound, Bumblebee and Cade in battle. The entire group attempted to escort Joyce and the Seed out of Hong Kong, but Lockdown returned. Optimus, Bumblebee, and the Yeagers all worked together and were able to kill Attinger and Lockdown. After regrouping, the Dinobots were set free on Earth, and Optimus assigned his Autobots to defend the Yeager family, while he departed to take the Seed from Earth and to confront his mysterious Creators. {{storylink|Transformers: Age of Extinction (film)|Age of Extinction}}

Transformers were declared illegal on Earth except in [[Cuba]], where Simmons fled with [[Topspin (DOTM)|Topspin]] and others. Falling in under Cade and Bumblebee's leadership, the Autobots hid out in a [[Junkyard (TLK)|junkyard]] in [[South Dakota]] provided to them by Sheriff [[Sherman]]. Their daily mission was to find Autobot refugees to rescue and repair, among them being Wheelie and [[Trench]]. The Autobots also tasked the vagabond salesman [[Daytrader]] with finding them a ship to get mobile or off of the planet. Things changed when Bumblebee accidentally led the [[Transformers Reaction Force]] straight to the base, leading to an invasion from Megatron's newly released gang of Decepticons. The Autobots fended off the attack, and in the aftermath, Cade took Bumblebee with him to England to meet with [[Cogman]] and Sir [[Edmund Burton]]. There, Burton recounted to Cade and [[Viviane Wembly]] the history of Transformers on Earth, including the tale of [[Hot Rod (DOTM)|Hot Rod]] and Bumblebee fighting alongside the allies in [[World War II]]. Optimus returned to Earth, albeit brainwashed by [[Quintessa (TLK)|Quintessa]], but was brought back to his senses by Bumblebee. As Cybertron loomed in the skies, Daytrader finally delivered the gang a ship, and the rest of the Autobots joined Optimus, Bumblebee, and the [[Guardian Knight]]s at Stonehenge for a great battle. Thanks to Viviane, the Autobots emerged victorious, and returned to a revitalized Cybertron, with Optimus summoning all Autobots across the stars to finally come home. {{storylink|Transformers: The Last Knight (film)|The Last Knight}}

{{note|In the first movie, it is Ratchet who provides the name "Autobot", claiming it is an abbreviation after Optimus's line, "We are autonomous robotic organisms from the planet Cybertron". Seeing as how Decepticons also fit this description, this may imply that "Autobot" is the species name for the Transformers. In a departure from previous Transformers incarnations, Japan used the name "Autobots" for this franchise, rather than "Cybertrons".<ref>[http://www.takaratomy.co.jp/products/TF/products/movie/autobots.html Movie Autobots toy listing on Takaratomy.com]</ref>}}

===Titan movie comics===
{{groupstub}}

====Alternate timeline====
{{groupstub}}

{{-}}

==''Animated'' continuity family==
Approximately 750 million years ago, the Autobots began as a sub-faction of the ruling [[Protectobot (Animated)|Protectobot]]s. Quickly eclipsing their predecessors, the Autobots rose to prominence and advocated expanding Cybertronian influence to neighboring planets within the [[Hadean System|Hadeen System]]. They were present throughout the Age of [[Expansion]], and fought in several skirmishes against the [[Quintesson Pan Galactic Co-Prosperity Sphere]].

Tensions between the Autobots and the [[Destron (Animated)|Destron]]s began to grow, a conflict which escalated after the Decepticons emerged within the Destrons.

[[File:TFA TFandRollout Autobots.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]

30 million years ago, [[Powered Convoy|PC Magnus]] oversaw the construction of [[Fortress Maximus (Animated)|Fortress Maximus]], headquarters of the [[Elite Guard|Cybertron Elite Guard]]. 18 million years later, his successor [[Ultra Magnus (Animated)|Ultra Magnus]] passed the [[Decepticon Registration Act]], sparking the [[Great War (Animated)|Great War]]. {{Storylink|Transformers Animated: The AllSpark Almanac II|The AllSpark Almanac II}} The Autobots won the war with the Decepticons because of three things: the Autobot-exclusive [[space bridge]] technology, [[Project Omega]], and by sending the [[AllSpark]] into space to keep the Decepticons from getting it. {{storylink|Transform and Roll Out}}

Since then [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] has known peace under the rule of the [[Autobot High Council]], headed by a [[Magnus (rank)|Magnus]]. Ultra Magnus commands the military portion of the planet's defense force, the Elite Guard, still based at Fortress Maximus. ([[Alpha Trion (Animated)|Alpha Trion]] is in charge of the civilian guards, which may include the [[Cyber-Ninja Corps]]). [[Prime (rank)|Prime]] is a subordinate rank answerable to the Magnus, and [[Optimus Prime (Animated)|Optimus]], [[Sentinel Prime (Animated)|Sentinel]], [[Rodimus Prime (Animated)|Rodimus]] and [[Shockwave (Animated)|Longarm]] have been promoted to this rank. A lower officer is known as a [[Minor]]. The High Council, [[Cybertron Intelligence]] and the [[Ministry of Science]] are based at the [[Metroplex (Animated)|Metroplex]].

Notably, Autobots in this universe are almost entirely ground-bound; almost all of them transform into various land or sea vehicles and none are capable of sustained flight. However, recent experiments in combining Autobot and Decepticon physiology have produced [[Jetfire (Animated)|Jetfire]] and [[Jetstorm (Animated)|Jetstorm]], flight-capable Autobots and prototypes for a future group of [[Aerialbot (Animated)|Aerialbot]]s. {{Storylink|Transformers Animated: The AllSpark Almanac II|The AllSpark Almanac II}} Unlike the Decepticons, the Autobots utilize various gadgets and tools in place of weapons (although rocket-propelled axes and shurikens are fair game).

Also notable is that they're somewhat more morally grey than other depictions of Autobots. The aforementioned experiment to create Jetfire and Jetstorm was done without consent, as the high command considered them expendable and saw "No point risking Elite Guard resources." Their words, not ours. {{storylink|First (and Second) in Flight}} Vast swathes of Autobots don't seem to have names, and Project Omega workers are in Blitzwing's words "nameless, faceless, and without identity," {{storylink|Transformers Animated: The AllSpark Almanac II|The AllSpark Almanac II}} to say nothing of how Project Omega's creations were deliberately mentally handicapped so as not to question the devastation they'd caused. And their attitudes towards organics leave much to be desired. Apparently, Autobot prison is so horrific that it drove [[Wasp|a wrongfully accused Autobot]] to the brink of madness.

Also, they let [[Sentinel Prime (Animated)|jerks]] into positions of power. That said, they're probably still better from a moral standpoint than the Decepticons.

Unfortunately, the series was canceled before this moral ambiguity could be properly explored.

{{note|Takara also used the name "Autobots" instead of "Cybertrons" for the faction in this franchise.}}

==''Shattered Glass''==
[[File:Autobot Shattered Glass.png|177px|thumb|...the evil forces of the Autobots?]]
{{quote|'Til all are gone.|[[Optimus Prime (SG)|Optimus Prime]]|"[[Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass]]"}}

In this universe, the Autobots are the evildoers, bent on conquering and destroying everything in their path, starting with Earth. On Cybertron, they are the dominant faction, ruled by the Prime, specifically [[Optimus Prime (SG)|Optimus Prime]]. Ranks are in constant flux due to their backstabbing nature. [[Rodimus (SG)|Rodimus]] may very well usurp rule one day. {{storylink|Transformers: Shattered Glass (franchise)|Shattered Glass}}

After a devastating battle at [[Decepticon City (SG)|Decepticon City]], Rodimus finally overthrew Optimus Prime, {{storylink|Familiar Reflections}} before Optimus, now reborn as Nova Prime through the power of [[Unicron/Shattered Glass|Unicron]], returned and overthrew Rodimus. {{storylink|Out of the One, Many}} Under Nova Prime's leadership, the Autobots sided with the Decepticons against their [[Primus/Shattered Glass|evil creator]] and attained a peaceful existence on [[Gaea]]. {{storylink|The Future Buried...}}
{{-}}

==Aligned continuity family==
[[File:DarknessRising1-untappedenergondeposit.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
The symbol of that would later be appropriated by the Autobots was utilized by the Cybertronian government prior to the [[Great War (Prime)|Great War]]. {{storylink|One Shall Rise, Part 3}}

"Autobot", a contraction of "autonomous robot", was an old philosophical phrase [[Optimus Prime (WFC)|Orion Pax]] found on the [[DataNet]] and one that he suggested to his friend [[Megatron (WFC)|Megatron]] to be the name of their movement to abolish the [[Functionism|caste system]]. At their hearing with the [[Autobot High Council|High Council]], Orion used the term over and over again to remind his enthusiastic followers of the freedom they sought. He implored the Council choose a new Prime, so [[Halogen (WFC)|Halogen]] chose Orion as the new Prime, tearing Orion and Megatron's movement in two. In the war with Megatron's Decepticons, the Autobots only held fifteen percent of Cybertron, including [[Iacon (polity)|Iacon]] and [[Kalis]]. The Autobots left Cybertron on the ''[[Ark (WFC)|Ark]]'', transported by the [[space bridge]] to the [[Milky Way]]. [[Ultra Magnus (WFC)|Ultra Magnus]]'s [[Wrecker]]s, [[Jetfire (WFC)|Jetfire]], [[Omega Supreme (WFC)|Omega Supreme]], and [[Alpha Trion (WFC)|Alpha Trion]] remained on the planet. With the bulk of the Autobots off Cybertron, the remaining Decepticons took [[Iacon (polity)|Iacon]]. {{storylink|Transformers: Exodus|Exodus}}

The Autobots remaining on Cybertron operated via a spy network based in [[Maccadam's Old Oil House]]. After rescuing [[Alpha Trion (WFC)|Alpha Trion]], the Autobots joined the Decepticons in fighting off a [[Quintesson]] invasion. {{storylink|Transformers: Retribution|Retribution}} Autobots continued to abandon their planet after the invasion, {{storylink|Transformers Prime: Rage of the Dinobots|Rage of the Dinobots}} with the few that chose to remain on Cybertron reorganizing themselves into underground communities and settlements under the stewardship of the [[Dinobot (FOC)|Dinobots]]. {{storylink|Beast Hunters issue 1|Beast Hunters #1}}

{{Main|Team Prime}}
Soon enough, Cybertron became all but deserted, with Autobot forces stretched thin across the universe. {{storylink|Transformers: Prime (graphic novel)}} With the death of [[Cliffjumper (WFC)|Cliffjumper]], Optimus only had [[Team Prime|four Autobots]] with him on [[Earth]], {{storylink|Darkness Rising, Part 1}} though he would later be joined on Earth with [[Rescue Force Sigma-17]], {{storylink|Family of Heroes}} [[Smokescreen (Prime)|Smokescreen]], {{storylink|New Recruit}} rogue member [[Wheeljack (Prime)|Wheeljack]], {{storylink|Loose Cannons}} [[Ultra Magnus (WFC)|Ultra Magnus]], {{storylink|Prey (episode)|Prey}} former Decepticon [[Knock Out (Prime)|Knock Out]], {{storylink|Predacons Rising (Prime)|Predacons Rising}} [[High Tide]], [[Servo (RB)|Servo]], {{storylink|Turning the Tide}} [[Salvage (RB)|Salvage]], and [[Blurr (Prime)|Blurr]]. {{storylink|The New Recruits}}

Discovering a manner to synthesize [[Living metal|cybermatter]], [[Megatron (WFC)|Megatron]] persuaded [[Ratchet (WFC)|Ratchet]] to aid him in rebuilding the [[Omega Lock]]. {{storylink|Persuasion}} Ratchet's Autobot morals ultimately triumphed over his desire to see Cybertron restored and allowed Team Prime to board the [[Trypticon (WFC)|''Nemesis'']]. {{storylink| Synthesis}} What followed ultimately turned out to be the final battle of the Great War, with Autobots emerging victorious. {{storylink|Deadlock}}

After Cybertron had been restored, [[Unicron/Aligned|Unicron]] attacked the planet in a bid to destroy [[Primus]]. The Autobots joined forces with the [[Predacon (Prime)|Predacons]] to defeat the Chaos Bringer. Though the alliance managed to defeat the Chaos Bringer, the battle ended with Optimus Prime sacrificing his spark to restore the [[AllSpark]] to the [[Core]]. {{storylink|Predacons Rising (Prime)|Predacons Rising}}

Once the planet's population began to grow, a new [[Autobot High Council|High Council]] was established to rule the planet. [[Cyclonus (WFC)|Cyclonus]] and his troops however managed to replace the Council and made plans for a Decepticon-ruled Cybertron shoving the Autobots, particularly those close to Optimus Prime, into obscurity. The Autobots misinterpreted this as the will of the Cybertronian people and thus did not protest these acts. {{storylink|Enemy of My Enemy (RID)|Enemy of My Enemy}} The people of the restored Cybertron all wore the Autobot insignia but by all indications, the vast majority were only civilians and had no military roles or functions. {{storylink|Pilot (Part 1)}} {{storylink|Freedom Fighters}}

To cement their rule, the High Council implanted mind-control techniques to control the Autobots and use them as a military force to rebuild the [[Decepticon Empire]]. {{storylink|Five Fugitives}} {{storylink|Freedom Fighters}} The [[Bee Team (RID)|Bee Team]]'s interference however derailed Cyclonus's plans and allowed the Autobots to resume leadership of Cybertron. {{storylink|Freedom Fighters}}
{{-}}

==''Cyberverse'' cartoon==
The ruling faction on Cybertron before the [[Great War (Cyberverse)|Great War]], the Autobots fought a losing war against the Decepticons. After it was found that [[Megatron (Cyberverse)|Megatron]] sought to pervert the [[AllSpark]], {{storylink|Megatron Is My Hero}} the Autobots launched it off Cybertron, {{storylink|Allspark (Cyberverse)|Allspark}} only to later decide that this had been a mistake, Optimus Prime leading the [[Ark (Cyberverse)|''Ark'']] to find and retrieve it. {{storylink|Matrix of Leadership (episode)|Matrix of Leadership}}

The journey took much longer than expected however, leading the ''Ark'' crew to go into stasis. {{storylink|The Journey}} While the ''Ark'' located the AllSpark, it crashed on Earth, cutting off the crew from their comrades on Cybertron, now reduced to a small resistance movement. After the Cybertron Autobots had located the AllSpark on Earth, they sent [[Windblade (Cyberverse)|Windblade]] to Earth to find it where she reunited with an amnesiac [[Bumblebee (Cyberverse)|Bumblebee]]. {{storylink|Memory (Cyberverse)|Memory}} After locating [[Teletraan-X (Cyberverse)|Teletraan-X]], {{storylink|Teletraan-X (episode)|Teletraan-X}} and [[Grimlock (Cyberverse)|Grimlock]], {{storylink|King of the Dinosaurs}} the group managed to located the ''Ark'' just as the [[Decepticon fleet]] arrived. {{storylink|Eruption}}

After decades of warring on Earth, the Autobots located the AllSpark and allied with its guardian [[Cheetor (Cyberverse)|Cheetor]]. {{storylink|Trials}} After procuring the AllSpark, the Autobots left Earth for home, {{storylink|Escape From Earth}} short cutting via a [[space bridge]] after a distress call came in from [[Chromia (Cyberverse)|Chromia]]. {{storylink|The Crossroads}}

Arriving home and unable to raise Chromia, Optimus suspected a trap. Abandoning ship, the Autobot army met its Decepticon counterpart in the War's final battle, emerging victorious when the AllSpark was returned to the core. {{storylink|Battle For Cybertron I}} {{storylink|Battle For Cybertron II}} {{storylink|Battle For Cybertron III}} {{storylink|Battle For Cybertron IV}}

The peace would prove short-lived as the [[Quintesson]]s invaded Cybertron and began draining the populace's sparks. {{storylink|The Loop}} Once the populace had been freed, the Autobots and Decepticons worked together to repulse the invaders, {{storylink|The Alliance}} before each claiming one hemisphere of the planet. {{storylink|The End Of The Universe IV}}

When it became apparent that Megatron was arming the Decepticons for another invader, the Autobots sent a strike team into Decepticon territory only to be surrounded by [[Perfect Decepticon]]s. {{storylink|Silent Strike}} The invaders were revealed to be the advance guard of another version of Megatron who had won the Great War and killed his own kind. After Megatron X had disabled his primary counterpart and been disabled, the war was considered properly over, the Autobots and Decepticons accepting co-existence. {{storylink|The Other One}}

===Alternate universe===
In another timeline, [[Megatron X (Cyberverse)|Megatron]] killed Optimus Prime in the Great War's opening stages. Bereft of Optimus' leadership, the Autobots quickly lost the War, being rendered extinct by the Decepticons. {{storylink|The Other One}}

==Merchandise==
===Transformers (2007)===
====Transformers Movie Screen Cleaners====
[[File:Movie Autobot Screencleaner.jpg|106px|thumb|This was originally the top bit of [[Alpha Trion (G1)|Alpha Trion's]] pimp cane.]]
*'''Autobot''' (2008)
:Released by [[Gacha International|Tomy Yujin]] in January 2008, this dangler is a [[Insignia|faction logo]]-shaped screen cleaner for your cell phone, with a stock image of Autobot insignia printed on the other side.
{{-}}

====Kinnerton====
[[File:Kinnerton Transformers Tin.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|For holding all your Autobot-symbol-shaped cookies.]]
*'''Transformers Tin''' (2008)
: Confectionery and... stationery company [[Kinnerton]] produced ''Movie''-style Autobot sigil-shaped tins. It is currently unknown what these tins were used for. These tins and other Kinnerton products were available in [[Australia]].
{{-}}

====PTI Group====
*'''Transformers Treat Containers''' (2008)
:Produced as an exclusive for [[Target]] stores, these blue plastic containers were molded in the shape of the Autobot symbol. They were sold in packs of three. While not dishwasher safe, they were perfect for containing any number of small treats.
{{--}}

==Notes==
===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Cybertron''' (サイバトロン ''Saibatoron''), '''Autobot''' (オートボット ''Ōtobotto'')
*''Cantonese:'' '''Bǒk Pāǐ''' (博派, "Fraternity Faction")
*''Czech:'' '''Aubot''' (first movie's first dub only)
*''Hungarian:'' '''Autobotok'''
*''Italian:'' '''Autorobot'''
*''Korean:'' '''Cybertron''' (사이버트론 ''Saibeoteuron''), '''Autobot''' (오토봇 ''Otobot'')
*''Mandarin:'' '''Autobot''' (Taiwan, 奧特巴 ''Àu Thè Pā''), '''Bó Pâi''' (博派, "Bot Faction"), '''Qìchērén''' (China, 汽车人, "Car Person"), '''Zìyóurén''' (自由人, "Freeman"),
*''Polish:'' '''Autobot'''
*''Portuguese:'' '''Autobóticos''' (Portugal comic), '''Optimus''' (Brazil comic)
*''Russian:'' '''Avtobot''' (Автобот, "Autobot")
*''Ukrainian:'' '''Kiber''' (Кібер, ''Cyber''), '''Avtobot''' (Автобот, "Autobot")

==References==
<references/>

[[Category:Animated factions]]
[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising factions]]
[[Category:Armada]]
[[Category:Autobots]]
[[Category:Cybertron franchise]]
[[Category:Energon franchise]]
[[Category:Factions]]
[[Category:Generation 1 factions]]
[[Category:Generation 2]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) factions]]
[[Category:Machine Wars]]
[[Category:Robots in Disguise (2001)]]
[[Category:Universe (2003)]]

Horri-Bull

2021-06-05T15:37:49Z

Warpshard: Pluralizing Terrorcons.

{{Factions|decepticon}}
{{disambig3|Rot Gut}}
:''Horri-Bull is a [[Decepticon]] [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] from the [[Generation 1 continuity family|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''
[[File:G1-HorriBull-boxart.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|"The fish rots from the head, as they say. So my thinking is, why not cut off the head?"]]
'''Horri-Bull''' (aka '''Terri-Bull''' or '''Rot-Gut''') is indeed horrible, as well as Aw-Ful, Dis-Gusting, and Gnaw-C-8-Ing, but at least he's not a slob like [[Blot (G1)|Blot]] or [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] or [[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]]. Oh, he's a slob, all right, but he's a different sort; neither an ignorant, involuntary slob like the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]], nor an oblivious slob like Landfill, not even a lazy slob like Snapdragon. Never! He's a proud, oil-spitting, grease-oozing, smoke-belching filthmaster. Horri-Bull boasts, with real pride, that he can't remember his last bath. He believes this makes him unique among the Decepticons. If one were to object that it was not a specialty to take pride in, it would only bring pain and perhaps death by flamethrower, because Horri-Bull is also a horrible bully (ha ha), with a nasty temper and a mean streak wider than the oily trails he leaves.

It is only fitting that this uniquely repulsive Decepticon is paired with such a vile specimen of [[Nebulan]] ooze with legs—the vulgar talking shock-jock known as [[Kreb]]. Together, they make a team to be avoided.

{{quote|His contempt for personal hygiene—his revelry in the malodorous—makes him by far one of the most foul foes I have yet encountered. Be always vigilant in cleanliness, for it is truly next to Primusness.|[[Vector Prime]]|[[Ask Vector Prime]]}}

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics====
{{noteukonly}}
[[File:Cash Carnage Headmasters.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4|"I'm talking about an overhaul of the system. Putting the power in... different hands."]]
Horri-Bull's partner [[Kreb]] served as frontman for the [[Z Foundation]], organizing a team of human bounty hunters called the [[Roadjammers]] to hunt Autobots for his leader, [[Scorponok (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Scorponok]]. Unfortunately, the Roadjammers discovered Horri-Bull and his fellow [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] "behind the curtain" and tried to take them out as well. Lord [[Zarak (G1)|Zarak]] was forced to sacrifice his "[[jammer]]"ed control over captured Autobots in order to revive his soldiers. {{storylink|Ca$h and Car-nage!}}

''Horri-Bull and the other Decepticon Headmasters and [[Targetmaster (technology)|Targetmaster]]s took Scorponok's headless body with them to ambush the Autobot [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]], who had taken Zarak from his shoulders in a [[All in the Minds!|previous battle]]. Though they succeeded in reuniting their leader with his head, Horri-Bull's part in the proceeding battle was cut short when he was [[Mass substitution|shunted]] into [[Limbo]] along with [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]], [[Fangry (G1)|Fangry]], [[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]], and [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] to make room for the [[time travel]]ing [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] and [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] from [[2009]].'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}

[[File:ColdWar-Horribullleads.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|"Go ahead! Run away! Say it was Horri-Bull! Spread the word! Tell a friend! Tell them the tale!"]]
When Scorponok and his greeting party were attacked while meeting with [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]]'s crew, Horri-Bull led the remaining army into battle against their fellow Decepticons. However, he was quickly sliced in two by [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]], {{storylink|Cold War!}} and carried back in pieces to the [[Club Con|Decepticon base]]. {{Storylink|Dark Star}} He was up and about by the time [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] surrendered to Scorponok in order to join their forces against the encroaching threat of [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]]. Horri-Bull made sure that [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] did nothing funny as the Autobot was escorted to a holding cell. {{Storylink|Surrender!}} He was later caught in the collapse of the [[New Jersey base]] caused by [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]]'s Decepticon faction. He was helped up on his feet by Soundwave. {{storylink|...All This and Civil War 2}} During the battle that followed, the [[Transformer]]s on [[Earth]], including Horri-Bull, were suddenly teleported to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] by [[Primus]]. There, they were forced to listen to Primus's warning about Unicron. {{Storylink|The Void! (US)|The Void!}}

[[File:EndoftheRoad-Horribull.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.1|"It's a brand new day and the sun is high! All the birds are singin' that you're gonna die!"]]
Following Unicron's attack and Scorponok's death, Horri-Bull fell under [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]'s leadership and was part of his invasion force on [[Klo]]. {{Storylink|The Last Autobot?}} When the [[Neo-Knights]] came to Klo, Horri-Bull was about to crush them when the reborn Optimus Prime landed in front of the Decepticons, shocking Horri-Bull. Horri-Bull and a few others fought the Autobot leader, but the battle turned against the Decepticons and Bludgeon forced the Decepticons into exile. {{storylink|End of the Road! (US)|End of the Road!}}
{{-}}

=====Marvel UK future timelines=====
[[File:Primes Rib Arcee Headmasters.jpg|thumb|Listen close to everybody's heart and hear that breaking sound.]]
In [[1995]], Horri-Bull joined [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]], [[Fangry (G1)|Fangry]], and [[Squeezeplay (G1)|Squeezeplay]] in attacking the Autobots at a football stadium in [[California]]. While his partners disabled [[Jazz (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Jazz]], Horri-Bull roasted [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] with his flamethrower breath. They then turned their attention on [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]], but were interrupted by the newly created Autobot, [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]]. She kept the Decepticons occupied long enough for the other Autobots to recover, and so they fled. {{storylink|Prime's Rib!}}
{{-}}

====''Transformers Comic-Magazin''====
Horri-Bull wanted to be disguised as a bull but his jet engine was a bit of a giveaway. {{storylink|Transformers Comic-Magazin issue 2|Attack At Dawn}} He was part of a Decepticon raid on the nuclear arms cache [[Nevada Alpha]], melting all human opposition with his weapons and smashing his way into the missile storage room. Well, at least the Autobots could stop him! Unless those Autobots were the Small Targetmasters because Horri-Bull singlehandedly hospitalised them with one charge! Optimus had to personally wrestle him and even that took a long time. ''Don't mess with Horri-Bull.'' {{storylink|Transformers Comic-Magazin issue 8|Save Nevada Alpha}}

The characteristics of Horri-Bull and the other Headmaster Decepticons were reviewed by [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] in a simulation watched by [[Bumblebee (G1)|Goldbug]]. {{storylink|Transformers Comic-Magazin issue 15|Memories of Bumblebee}}

====''Classics''====
{{noteclassics}}
[[File:InvasionPrologue-Decepticonspushforward.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.4|You've got more than enough evil hours to get into the Henchmen's Union.]]
Twenty years after the battle of Klo, Horri-Bull had joined [[Overlord (Masterforce)|Gigatron]]'s Decepticons on Earth, and was present when Gigatron's team attacked the Autobots' [[Ironworks (facility)|Ironworks]] headquarters for their hidden [[Rarified Energon]] reserves. {{storylink|Invasion Prologue}}

They were plotting a second assault when invaders from another dimension complicated the plans. The Decepticons found themselves allied with the forces of good, defending their hunting ground on Earth from [[Ultra Magnus (SG)|Evil Autobots]] who wanted to destroy the entire world. {{storylink|Invasion (issue)|Invasion}}
{{-}}

====''Regeneration One''====
{{NoteRG1}}
[[File:Bludgeons decepticons 2 destiny.jpg|thumb|upright=1.95|"The League is watching. I gotta do this alone."]]
Twenty-one years after the battle of [[Klo]], Horri-Bull was still at Bludgeon's side aboard the ''[[Warworld]]'' as the Decepticon leader unleashed his [[Blitz Engine]]s on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]'s Autobots and fired the ''Warworld'''s weapons at [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Ultra Magnus]] and [[Galvatron II|Galvatron]]. {{storylink|Destiny, Part Four}} At [[Fangry (G1)|Fangry]]'s suggestion, [[Krok (G1)|Krok]], [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]], [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]], [[Octopunch (G1)|Octopunch]], [[Stranglehold]], and Horri-Bull went down to the planet's surface to join the battle, but as the Blitz Engines, [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]]'s Neo-Decepticons and finally Bludgeon himself were all defeated in turn, Ultra Magnus's Autobots rallied and claimed victory. {{storylink|Destiny, Part Five}}
{{-}}

===Ladybird Books continuity===
[[File:Decepticons Underground Headmasters.jpg|thumb|left|"Oh, goodness, look at my wrist. I gotta go."]]
Horri-Bull, Fangry, and Squeezeplay operated a secret underground base on Nebulos within the "[[Nebulos Triangle]]". They maintained this secrecy by shorting out electronics and causing whoever wandered into the area to disappear... at least until Optimus Prime decided that these phenomena were probably caused by a secret Decepticon base. The Autobots stormed in, and [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] poured [[Nebulite]]-enriched concrete all over the fleeing Decepticons, leaving Horri-Bull and the others trapped in a living tomb. {{Storylink|Decepticons Underground}}
{{-}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
[[File:Fragmentation Horri-Bull Krok.jpg|thumb|A heinous crime, a show of force, a murder would be nice of course!]]
Horri-Bull was a member of [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]'s [[Predacon (War Within)|Predacons]] during the [[Dark Ages]], and was present when the [[Lightning Strike Coalition]] stole one of their [[energon]] shipments. {{storylink|Fragmentation (G1)|Fragmentation}}
{{-}}

===2005 IDW continuity===
:*''First Appearance:'' [[Drift issue 1|Transformers: Drift #1]]; [[Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime]] (modern era)
[[File:Transgressors done with this.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4|left|"Hey, sexy, fancy some backstory?"]]
Horri-Bull was one of the early Decepticons and passed on its class warfare rhetoric to his close compatriot, [[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]]. [[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]], Needlenose's brother, was disparaging of Horri-Bull and his Decepticonism. {{storylink|The Transgressors}} As the Decepticon movement spread across Cybertron, Needlenose formally joined the Decepticons alongside Horri-Bull. The two became gun-runners for the cause, supplying disenfranchised workers with "self-defense" weapons in preparation for a larger uprising. {{storylink|New Cybertron Part 1: To Walk Among the Chosen|To Walk Among the Chosen}} {{storylink|New Cybertron Part 4: Dance Among the Shadows|Dance Among the Shadows}}

[[File:FutureGloriesLost-NeedlenoseAndHorri-Bull.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.4]]
When an idealistic scientist named [[Jetfire (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Jetfire]] had an altercation with the law, Horri provided their Decepticon comrade with a gun, unaware that Jetfire, adhering to the belief that the Decepticon movement should be pacifistic, was secretly working with [[Optimus Prime (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Orion Pax]] to crack down on the arms trade. {{storylink|New Cybertron Part 4: Dance Among the Shadows|Dance Among the Shadows}} Jetfire's troubled allegiances only grew worse when Needlenose revealed that [[Soundwave (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Soundwave]], ostensibly preaching the path of peace, had authorized the arms-dealing in the first place. {{storylink|New Cybertron Part 5: Future Glories Lost|Future Glories Lost}} Orion and [[Prowl (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Prowl]] arrived to crack down on the arms dealers, and Needlenose and Horri-Bull fled while Pax gunned down the third member of their group. Frustrated by the loss of their weapons, Needlenose berated Soundwave for letting their hard work go to waste, but Soundwave lied to them by telling them that their supply of weapons had been detonated by the Autobots rather than a pragmatic Starscream. {{storylink|New Cybertron End: Feel Safe Without Regrets|Feel Safe Without Regrets}}

Needlenose and Horri-Bull would later catch Jetfire on the way home from his new job in the police science division. They administered a beating before getting scared off by [[Bumblebee (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Bumblebee]]. {{storylink|The Next Day, and the Next}}

Millions of years later, Horri-Bull was a member of [[Turmoil]]'s detachment of Decepticon soldiers. He fought against [[Sunstreaker (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Sunstreaker]]'s Autobot forces under the leadership of Turmoil's lieutenant, [[Drift (G1)|Deadlock]]. {{storylink|Drift issue 1|Drift #1}}

[[File:Autonomy Lesson Horri-Bull Zetca.jpg|thumb|left|"Look at him! Not a word! Hammer, meet NAIL!"]]
Following the end of the war, Horri-Bull was among the Decepticons captured and affixed with [[inhibitor/deterrence chip]]s in the wake of [[Galvatron (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Galvatron]]'s defeat on Cybertron. When they were released to take down the [[NAIL]]s protesting against the Autobots' presence on the planet, Horri-Bull strangled one unlucky rioter. {{storylink|Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime|The Death of Optimus Prime}}

Horri-Bull enjoyed his new position as "enforcer" and joined Needlenose in harassing NAILs, including [[Tappet]]. When they were caught in the act by the Autobots, they were turned over to [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]], then the appointed leader of the Decepticons and who chewed them out for blindly serving the Autobot government. Nevertheless, the two were at it again, this time beating up [[Zetca]]. When Horri-Bull refused to back off, [[Bumblebee (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Bumblebee]] detonated the I/D chip in Horri-Bull, blowing his head off. (Unknown to the horrified Needlenose, the I/D chips had been disabled: the Decepticon leadership had ''allowed'' Horri-Bull to die to keep this quiet, Soundwave having remotely detonated the chip.) {{Storylink|The Autonomy Lesson (issue)|The Autonomy Lesson}} {{storylink|The World & Everything in It}}

When lamenting how their leaders just kept bringing them more fighting, Needlenose said that he missed Horri-Bull. {{storylink|Shockpoint}} Later, as a disgruntled Needlenose began to become a Decepticon leader himself, he was driven to rage when Tracks said Bumblebee could have given the Decepticons a better peace, saying he would never have worked with the Transformer who'd killed his lover. {{storylink|The Transgressors}} Having learned the truth of Horri-Bull's death from [[Arcee (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Arcee]], Optimus Prime later used it as leverage to extort Soundwave into allying with the Autobots by threatening to pass the information on to Needlenose. {{storylink|All Hail Optimus Part 3: The Medium and the Message|The Medium and the Message}} When [[Shockwave (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Onyx Prime]] revealed the truth that Soundwave killed Horri-Bull, the rest of the Decepticons turned on him. {{storylink|The Falling, Chapter 3: The Ground|The Ground}} During the battle of [[Unicron]] Soundwave then glimpsed Horri-Bull's spirit among the other deceased Cybertronians welcoming him to the Afterspark. {{storylink|Ceremony}}

===Ask Vector Prime===
[[Vector Prime]] regarded Horri-Bull, and his contempt for modern hygiene, as one of the vilest evils he had ever faced. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/06/12}}

===''Titans Return'' marketing material===
[[File:TPotTM Rot-GutSkullsmasher.jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|"It's not a death ray or an ice beam—that's so Johnny Snow."]]
Though Terri-Bull was a filthy slob, his comrades didn't call him that to his face because he could give them the ability to fire a toxic rust cloud. {{storylink|#Generations|''Titans Return'' Terri-Bull online bio}} Rot-Gut accompanied [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullsmasher]] and [[Grax]] to [[Caminus (planet)|Caminus]], where they stole some secret Autobot codes. Pursued by [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]], [[Stripes]], and [[Rewind (G1)|Rewind]], the Decepticons eluded their pursuers by having Rot-Gut combine with Skullsmasher's body. Rot-Gut imparted his power onto Skullsmasher, allowing Skullsmasher to fire a cloud of toxic rust from his blaster. {{storylink|Titans Return: The Power of the Titan Masters}}
{{--}}

==Commercial appearances==
[[File:Squeezeplayhorribullfangrycommercial.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.4|Torro!]]
*[[Fangry (G1)|Fangry]], Horri-Bull, and [[Squeezeplay (G1)|Squeezeplay]] burst through a wall, and the three engaged the new Headmaster Autobots. [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] noted that their new Headmasters would give the Decepticons "more brainpower than ever." {{storylink|Commercial/Generation 1#Small Headmasters|Small Headmasters Commercial}} Given that it's Galvatron who said it, the utterly ludicrous nature of this comment can just be explained as him being particularly crazy that day.
*During a battle on the [[Moon (moon)|Moon]], Horri-Bull attempted to tackle down [[Quickswitch]]. The Autobot dodged out of the way, and used his puma mode to take down his attacker. {{storylink|Commercial/Generation 1#Quickswitch|Quickswitch commercial}}
{{--}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
[[File:G1toy-Horri-Bull.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|There is no Dana, only Zuul.]]
*'''Horri-Bull''' (Headmaster, [[1988]])
**''Accessories'': [[concussion weapon|Concussion blaster]], double-barreled "flamethrower"-tail

:Horri-Bull transforms into a robotic bull (though he more closely resembles the "terror dogs" [[Zuul]] and [[Vinz Clortho]] from ''[[Ghostbusters]]''). His [[beast mode]] back opens up to contain his Nebulan partner Kreb, who forms the [[robot mode]]'s head. Plugging Kreb (or any other Headmaster) into the neck socket activates the [[Tech Spec]] meter in Horri-Bull's chest; as a smaller Headmaster, the stats are part of a single plate rather than individual rollers. His twin-barreled tail-blaster becomes a hand-held weapon in robot mode.

:His beast mode forelegs feature articulated claws, but what purpose this serves is unknown, since they only fold down, useless in beast mode and actually covering up his fist-holes in robot. Making matters worse, he can't hold his double-barreled tail gun without partially untransforming his fist away from the claws to clear room for the weapon. Like most larger toys of the era, he features 5mm [[peg]]holes for holding weapons.

:This mold was released in Japan without changes as the ''[[Transformers: Super-God Masterforce (franchise)|Super-God Masterforce]]'' human villain [[Bullhorn (Masterforce)|Bullhorn]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/1988/Decepticon/Horri-Bull/horri-bull.htm More information on Horri-Bull at TFU.info]''
{{--}}

===''Generations''===
[[File:TitanMasterToy Terri-Bull.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Needlenose is desperately trying to import this.]]
*'''Terri-Bull''' (Titan Master, [[2016]])
** ''Accessories'': Tank vehicle

:Terri-Bull transforms from robot to a head compatible with any Deluxe-or-larger ''[[Titans Return (toyline)|Titans Return]]'' figure. The companion vehicle changes from a tank to a plane which Terri-Bull (or any other Titan Master/''Legends'' Headmaster figures) can ride on/combine with, and has a 5mm post that folds out to become a weapon for larger figures. His promo shots show a purple face and light grey arms, while the final toy has yellow-colored face and blue arms. His guns are also shown in blue rather than light grey.

:The gun barrels connect to the tank turret via 3mm [[C joint]]s. This allows them to pivot up and down, as well as clip onto other compatible figures.

:Unlike most of the Titan Master vehicle accessories, Terri-Bull's tank vehicle's gun mode handle does not seem to be pop off when wielded by many 5mm-compatible closed hands. However, like Loudmouth, the upper portion of Terri-Bull's legs has been installed backwards in all samples. This can be fixed by lightly knocking out the pin, flipping the leg pieces, and reassembling the toy.

:Terri-Bull was originally designed by [[Emiliano Santalucia]] as a new character, and sported an original head-mode design. The [[Trypticon's Titan Master Crunch]] cereal box refers him as "Rot-Gut".

:Terri-Bull was [[retool]]ed into ''Titans Return'' [[Flywheels#Generations|Skytread]], whilst for the ''[[Transformers Legends (franchise)|Legends]]'' line the head was redecoed as [[Bullhorn (Masterforce)#Legends|Bullhorn]] and the vehicle into [[Tankette#Legends|Tankette]], and he would've been redecoed as a "Scout Tank" for the BotCon 2017 "Action on Hydrus Four" set that never came to be.

:This toy has become rather hard to find in Australia while his wavemates are still relatively common.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2016/Decepticon/TRTerri-Bull/terri-bull.htm More information on ''Titans Return'' Terri-Bull at TFU.info]''
{{TRTerri-BullMold}}
{{--}}

==Merchandise==
===Transformers Trading Card Game===
[[File:W5Horri-Bull.jpg|thumb]]
*'''Horri-Bull, Ground Trooper''' (2020)
**'''Wave 5: Titan Masters Attack'''
**''Rarity: '''''UT'''
**''Card Number: '''''T25/T46'''
**''Stars: ''6

:Horri-Bull is one of forty-six double sided character cards released as part of Wave 5 of the [[Transformers Trading Card Game]], Titans Masters Attack. As a character with a body mode, Horri-Bull begins the game with a Titan Master attached in head mode. Once Horri-Bull is KO'd, said Titan Master is deployed.

:The card features original artwork for both modes, with lines by [[Sara Pitre-Durocher]]

:This card's set was originally set for an April 2020 release, however due to the global COVID-19 pandemic the release was pushed back to May 29, 2020.
{{--}}

==Notes==
[[File:Horribull bullhorn toy.jpg|upright=1.4|thumb|Our wiki is so... horrible.]]
*Horri-Bull's yellow color in "[[The Autonomy Lesson (issue)|The Autonomy Lesson]]" stems from the image TFWiki used to have for Horri-Bull's toy and [http://www.tfu.info/1988/Decepticon/Horri-Bull/horri-bull.htm TFU.info's screencap of Horri-Bull]. [[Josh Perez]] chose to use the yellow to "help him stick out a lot more".<ref>[https://www.allspark.com/forums/topic/84653-idw-rid-teaser-images/page-5 Post from Josh Perez on The Allspark]</ref>

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Horri-Bull''' (ホリブル ''Horiburu'')
*''French:'' '''Taureu''' (Canada)
*''Hungarian:'' '''Szörny-bika''' ("Monstrous-bull")
*''Italian:'' '''Thorror'''

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Classics Decepticons]]
[[Category:Generation 1 Decepticons]]
[[Category:Headmasters]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) Decepticons]]
[[Category:Regeneration One Decepticons]]
[[Category:Slobs]]
[[Category:Titans Return Decepticons]]
[[Category:War Within Predacons]]

Targetmaster (technology)

2021-05-07T23:19:01Z

Warpshard: /* Generation 1 */ Adding Landfill's name to his caption, modifying the joke a bit. Might not work as well.

{{disambig3.5|the 1987 gimmick|the 2019 gimmick|Battle Master|Targetmaster}}
[[File:Desertislandofspace-targetmaster-rollcall.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cambot! Gypsy! Tom Servo! Croooooow!]]
The '''Targetmasters''' are a subset of Transformers [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] to smaller partners, who transform into their weapons. The partner is often an organic life form that has been bio-engineered to be partly mechanical, or wears a suit of armor that transforms around them to become the weapon.

The Targetmasters benefit from being able to take two minds into battle. A Targetmaster possesses a living weapon that is capable of making its own tactical decisions and target priorities. The advantage is similar to that of having a dedicated gunner aboard an aircraft or tank.

The Targetmaster process is often seen to follow shortly after development of the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] process. The earliest known Targetmasters were among the [[Autobot]]s and [[Decepticon]]s involved in the war on [[Nebulos]], and were paired with a bio-engineered [[Nebulan]] humanoid which wore a transforming exosuit. Later Targetmasters included virtually any Transformer specifically partnered with another being that becomes their weapon, not limited to Nebulans or organics. The term has been applied to the [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]] team<ref>[[Hasbro]]'s 1988 toy [[catalog]]</ref> and several [[Action Master]] pairings.<ref>''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]''</ref>

Some Transformers, known as '''Double-Targetmasters''', are bonded with two smaller partners who can form individual weapons or combine with one another to form a 'double weapon', with the power of whichever weapon forms the 'barrel' boosted by the other.

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics====
{{noteukonly}}
The first Targetmasters were a group of six Autobots under the command of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Fortress Maximus]]. Having traveled to the planet Nebulos in search of peace, this group surrendered their weapons to the natives to prove their peaceful intentions. {{storylink|Ring of Hate!}}

''Nebulon minds were duplicated and installed into transformable Nebulon-sized robots, creating the Targetmasters.'' {{storylink|The Final Conflict}}

{{note|This depiction of Targetmasters as robots with duplicated Nebulon minds and not actual Nebulons is unique to this story.}}

[[File:BrothersinArmor-Targetmasters.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4|Mouseketeer Roll Call! Cubby! Bobby! Gregor! Jimmy! Darlene! Annette!]]
Some time later, [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] and his Decepticon Headmaster partner [[Scorponok (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Scorponok]] had discredited the Autobots, turned public opinion against them, and driven them into retreat. A group of six Nebulan dissidents undertook a great risk to join the Autobots, allowing themselves to be bio-engineered into replacement weapons for the six unarmed Autobots. The Targetmasters became known as [[Peacemaker]], [[Spoilsport]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], [[Sparks]], and [[Haywire]].

The Autobot Targetmasters' first trial by combat came at the [[Nursery (Nebulos)|Nursery]], a horticultural research facility that was under threat by Zarak's Decepticons. The newly minted Targetmasters engaged Scorponok and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] in a battle for the Nursery, but retreated as the facility was being destroyed by the battle, regardless of who was winning.

[[File:Decepticon targetmasters brothers in armor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
[[Vorath]] was soon able to duplicate the Autobots' experiment, creating a group of five Decepticon Targetmasters, though they weren't quite a match for the Autobot Headmasters. All of the Targetmasters left Nebulos soon after, as the Autobots retreated to spare Nebulos further warfare, and the Decepticons pursued. {{storylink|Brothers in Armor!!}}

[[File:Pointblank worlds apart.jpg|thumb|left]]
''At some point before leaving Nebulos, the Decepticons captured [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]], [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] and took them back to their [[Fortress of Despair]], apparently because they couldn't perfect the Targetmaster process. After a brief skirmish with the Autobot Headmasters, they retreated and let the Autobots follow them...directly into a trap! It was not creating Targetmasters that Scorponok was struggling with, but Headmasters. Although [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] was able to release the Autobot Targetmasters, and with their partners [[Peacemaker]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], and [[Spoilsport]] they pretty much won the battle, Scorponok was able to escape with a captive [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] to study.'' {{storylink|Worlds Apart!}}

{{note|Only the eleven "large" Targetmasters are given an origin in the ''Headmasters'' mini-series, and there isn't a lot of room in the plot for others to have been made off-panel. Nevertheless, the [[The Transformers Universe|Marvel bios]] for several of the "small" (1988) Targetmasters imply they became Targetmasters at this time.}}

After arriving on [[Earth]], the Autobot Targetmasters subsequently went on a mission to rescue the human [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]] from the Decepticons. They were repulsed from the Decepticons' [[Club Con|island base]] by a phalanx of hidden weapons. {{storylink|The Desert Island of Space!}}

[[File:Nightstickwreckinghavoc.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
''Having left Scorponok's forces, [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] attempted to force their former leader [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] to hand over his [[time-jump trigger device]], backed up by their Targetmaster partners. When the meeting was interrupted by the [[Wrecker]]s and battle ensued, Springer attempted to relieve Cyclonus of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] but was taken aback when the gun transformed and ran away from him.'' {{storylink|Wrecking Havoc}}

[[File:Nightstickcrushed.jpg|thumb|left|100px]]
''Nightstick would not prove to be nearly so fortunate when Cyclonus and Scourge attempted to forge an alliance with the current [[Decepticon leader]] [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]]. When negotiations went badly, Shockwave sent a [[Straxus (G1)|clone]] of [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] to kill Cyclonus and crush his gun.'' {{storylink|Dry Run!}}

''[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], along with [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] and [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], led an attack on an Autobot [[Ark shuttlecraft|shuttle]] to retrieve Scorponok's head from Highbrow, but once he had been reassembled they were spirited away to [[Limbo]] to make way for [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] from the future. Meanwhile, Scourge and [[Fracas]] were fighting alongside Galvatron and the Megatron clone against the Wreckers and [[Mayhem Attack Squad|Mayhems]]. Ultimately the present-day Targetmasters reappeared when Soundwave returned his troops to their own time, but Cyclonus and Scourge vanished into the [[time rift]].'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}

Additional Targetmasters may or may not have been created as the war went on. [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] and [[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] were both seen using weapons resembling their Targetmaster partners, but their individual circumstances do not seem to easily allow for them to have been on Nebulos to acquire Targetmaster partners. {{storylink|Yesterday's Heroes!}}

Recoil was among the weapons surrendered by the Autobots to the Decepticons as part of preparation for an alliance against [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]]. {{storylink|Surrender!}}
{{-}}

====Marvel UK future timelines====
[[File:Targetmaster-nomore.jpg|thumb|Hot Rod is no longer a Targetmaster as he mourns Firebolt's death.]]
In the year [[2007]], Autobot leader [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] reminisced about the war; on Nebulos where he first teamed up with his Targetmaster partner [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]] and later, on Earth, when Firebolt died under unspecified circumstances. {{storylink|Headhunt}}
{{-}}

====Earthforce====
{{earthforcefiction}}
[[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]] noted the double-paired Targetmasters known as Double-Targetmasters among his list of complaints about how complicated things had gotten in his absence. {{storylink|Starting Over!}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
The Targetmaster process was developed eons ago on Cybertron, as a process to forge a warrior and his weapon into a cohesive fighting team. The two are linked on a mental and physical level, allowing them to draw energy from each other and multitask with extreme efficiency. Targetmaster weapons cannot be wielded by another being without their consent unless they are somehow incapacitated in their weapon configuration. Severe injury or death of one partner can have a profound physical and emotional impact on the other.

The Targetmaster process was further expanded upon on the planet Nebulon. This would allow organic humanoids, not just mechanoids, to function as weapons when adorned with removable armor. The strength and endurance of these modified beings were greatly enhanced, though their appearance does not change. {{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye issue 8}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====American cartoon continuity====
[[File:Targetmasters.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Here's me, and here's my gun!]]
The creation of Targetmasters and [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], in this continuity, started with an initial idea of Brainstorm's that Autobots should use [[human]] partners while driving to help with steering and speed, this idea was confirmed when a race between [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]] and [[Blurr (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blurr]] was won not by Blurr's speed, but by [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]]'s help in driving Hot Rod. [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], however, was very sceptical about this idea.

After a large scale Decepticon attack, several Autobots, [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike]], and Daniel crash-landed on [[Nebulos]]; where the Autobots were taken captive by the inhabitants. After a Decepticon attack in which Daniel Witwicky was injured and put on life support, several Autobots were kidnapped by Decepticons.

The Nebulan warriors explained their situation with the [[Hive (G1)|Hive]] to the Autobots, and why they didn't trust them at first, and came to an agreement. Using Brainstorm's idea, they would use their and Daniel's minds with the Autobots' bodies to be powerful enough to defeat the Hive and save the others. Thus were born the Headmasters. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 1}}

Once the Headmasters got to know their partners, they set off to rescue the five captured captured Autobots. After some torture, Hot Rod, [[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]], Blurr, [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] were all saved by the Headmasters.

After witnessing the power of secondary operators, the Decepticons and other Autobots saw the logic in having some of their own.

The defeated Decepticons were captured by the hive and taken to their underground base of operations. [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]], the leader of the hive gave the Decepticons an opportunity to become powerful like the Autobot Headmasters at the literal cost of their heads. [[Cyclonus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Scourge]] agreed to let the Nebulans make Headmasters only out of the Decepticons there with beast modes, they however would only let the organic beings into their weapons. So [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]], [[Apeface]], [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]], [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]], and [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] were turned into Headmasters, [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]], [[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], Scourge, and Cyclonus had their weapons modified so that hive members could fit into and transform into them.

[[File:Cyclonus tm.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|*ptew ptew*]]
[[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], meanwhile had found a city and told the news to the other Autobots, damaging himself in the process. The Nebulans fixed him and believed the city he talked about to be the hive's old base from before they moved underground. The Decepticons, now with their Nebulan partners, attacked the Autobots again. Brainstorm was mad that the Decepticons stole his idea, the Head and Targetmasters and the Decepticons overwhelmed the Autobots and stole the key to the plasma energy chamber from them before the hive convinced the Decepticons to go back to Zarak to await orders.

[[File:Rebirth2 Blurr with gun.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.1|"Haywire you're grey and black, now stop looking like my old gun."
"Aww, but this model is so much nicer."]]
Brainstorm, to even the odds, showed his fellow Autobots scans of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]], showing how the Decepticons modified their guns and used the Nebulan tech to modify the non-Headmaster Autobot's guns and have Nebulan partners inside them. Hot Rod, Kup, Blurr, Crosshairs, Pointblank, and [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]]'s guns were modified and became the Autobot Targetmasters.

[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] then showed up on Nebulos and was introduced to the Autobot's Headmaster and Targetmaster partners. He was also informed that the Decepticons also had access to the same technology and the key to the plasma energy chamber. The Autobots went to the Decepticons to fight but they and their Nebulan partners had nearly completed their project. The Decepticons engaged the Autobots in combat but were surprised to see that the Autobots now had Targetmaster partners too.

The Autobots, however, were much more surprised to see that Zarak had created something big using the same Headmaster technology both factions had: [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 2}} {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 3}}
{{-}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
[[File:Tf headmaster 29 pointblank target on.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|FIRE IN THE HOLE!]]
In Japanese continuities, Targetmaster partners hail from the planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], but unlike the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] they are partnered with a regular Transformer as opposed to a [[Transtector]]. This fusion came about in a blast which binary-bonded a group of refugees from Master to the arms of the new Autobot recruits, as well as the Decepticon marauders, who were terrorizing the refugees in the first place. Unlike in the U.S. continuity and toys, when the Masters transform into gun mode, they take the place of their larger partner's entire hand instead of being held by it.

[[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]] and [[Artfire]] have Targetmasters, even though they were not present for the explosion. The Japanese Targetmasters speak in a series of electronic beeps (like the [[Mini-Con]]s) that only their bonded partner can understand, instead of speaking normally like their Headmaster brethren.
{{-}}

====''Wings Universe''====
{{wingsnote}}
[[Tornado]] was a Targetmaster, usually wielded by his [[Squadron X]] leader [[Macabre]] and later [[Ferak]]. {{storylink|Tornado - Decepticon Saboteur|Torando - Decepticon Saboteur, 2014/06/10}}

Following the [[Great Transformation]], [[Flareup (G1)|Flareup]] found herself stationed at [[New Polyhex]], where she became a star pupil while training under the ancient and enigmatic Target Masters before being recruited into the [[Cybertronian Knight]]s. {{storylink|Flareup (G1)#BotCon2014|BotCon 2014 Knight Flareup profile card}}

===''Shattered Glass''===
[[File:Crosshairs SG.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb]]
In this reverse universe, the Targetmasters take a much more active role in battle: they can take all motor control over the limb of whoever is holding them. The small partners are [[Micromaster]]s with three modes: robot, vehicle, and weapon.

[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] devised a plan to keep the Decepticons stranded on Cybertron while the Autobots fled to Earth. To execute this plan, he, [[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]], and [[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] took Targetmaster partners. [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]] was easily able to take down Megatron, but the Decepticon Micromasters were able to thwart the entire group of Targetmasters, allowing Megatron to free himself. {{storylink|Do Over}}

===''TransTech''===
After a bad experience with "colonists" from the [[Aurex]] Cluster, Nebulos made their atmosphere poisonous to Cybertronian life. In order to safely go undercover on this world, [[Vector Prime]] was binary bonded with [[Safeguard (TransTech)|Safeguard]], a friendly native. In addition to processing Vector Prime's fuel, he could also become a handheld weapon, making him a Target/Powermaster. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/11/01}}

===''Beast Wars: Uprising''===
Targetmaster technology was first created in the 21st century, by the Nebulans [[Teslor]] and [[Arcana]], as an enhancement to the already-existing Headmaster technology. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}} The process involved the subjects mingling their sparks, granting both a dramatic boost in power, such as being able to shoot down ships from orbit. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}} The technology gave the Autobots a temporary advantage in the war for Nebulos, until [[Fracas]] and [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] defected to the Decepticons, taking the Targetmaster process with them.

When the war spread to the planet [[Master (planet)|Rebirth]], the [[Malignus (G1)|Malignus]] scientist [[Nucleon (Generations)|Nucleon]] adapted the process to work with Cyberdroid physiology. Along with the Powermaster and Headmaster technology, it was used to create the [[Triple-Threat Master]] technology as well. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}}

Towards the end of the war, the mad Decepticon [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] found out the Targetmasters' ability to draw power from their wielder's Sparks could be amplified, and took the ability to its conclusion: being able to draw the life out of a Cybertronian just being near them. Terrified by this discovery, Autobots and Decepticons alike arranged for the Targetmasters, organic and Cybertronian alike, to be granted exile when the war ended. However, this was a ruse, and both sides arranged for the mass murder of all Targetmasters to prevent their powers being used ever again. The systematic eradication was later dubbed the "[[Targetmaster Extirpation]]". However, a few Targetmasters did survive, and went into hiding on a Cybertron now utterly hostile to their kind.

In the 24th century, one of the last Targetmasters, [[Twirl (G1)|Twirl]], was killed by [[Overrun]] when she considered outing herself. This sequence of events led to Overrun himself dying to prevent anyone else getting their hands on him. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1987]])
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[Haywire]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Hot Rod]] with [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] with [[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Pointblank]] with [[Peacemaker]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[Spoilsport]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Crosshairs.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Crosshairs]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Autobot Targetmasters were sold boxed with their Targetmaster partners, and consisted of three all-new molds alongside slightly retooled versions of Hot Rod, Kup, and Blurr from the previous year's assortment. The three older molds featured enlarged fist holes, allowing them to hold their new weapons. Both old and new molds transform into futuristic/Cybertronian ground vehicles. All six can mount their Targetmaster weapon on their roof or hood while in vehicle mode.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]] with [[Aimless (G1)|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[Fracas]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] with [[Blowpipe (G1)|Blowpipe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Misfire.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Misfire]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Similar to their Autobot counterparts, the Decepticon Targetmasters feature three new jet molds alongside retooled versions of Cyclonus and Scourge with enlarged fist holes. All five transform into futuristic/Cybertronian aircraft. Their weapons can be mounted on top of them in jet form. The three newer molds were also sold in 1988.
|}

{{anchor|JapaneseTargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Japanese-original Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Stepper ([[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]]) with [[Nebulon (Headmasters)|Nebulon]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire]] with [[Nightstick (Headmasters)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Stepper.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Stepper]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Artfire and Ricochet are [[redeco]]s and [[retool]]ings of the original toys for [[Inferno (G1)#Toys|Inferno]] and [[Jazz (G1)/toys#Generation 1|Jazz]], respectively. They each come with the Targetmaster partner molds that were used as Fracas and Nightstick in the US.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1988]])
{{anchor|doubletargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] with [[Flintlock]] and [[Silencer (G1)|Silencer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] with [[Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (G1)|Ricochet]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Targetmaster)|Tracer]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Landfill.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Landfill, now with Nebulan-on-Nebulan action!]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Often referred to as the "small Targetmasters" to distinguish them from the larger 1987 releases, these toys were sold carded. Each toy includes two smaller Targetmaster partners, each of which can form a gun or combine together as a larger gun. The two guns can also mount on the robot's vehicle form. The three Autobots share a construction vehicle theme. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] with [[Sunbeam (G1)|Sunbeam]] and [[Zigzag]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Quake (G1)|Quake]] with [[Tiptop]] and [[Heater]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] with [[Hairsplitter]] and [[Singe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Quake.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Quake]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Decepticon "small Targetmasters" were sold carded with two Targetmaster partners each. Like the 1988 Autobots, these partners can form independent or combined weapons, and mount on their partner Transformers' vehicle forms or be wielded by them in robot mode. The three Transformers all turn into military vehicles. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{{anchor|seacons}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Seacons'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Nautilator]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skalor]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]]}}
|
|[[File:Nautilatorg1toy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nautilator]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Seacons are a [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1986 (Scramble City and 2010)|Scramble City]]-style combiner team, with [[Snaptrap (G1)|a large leader toy]] who forms the torso of a larger robot, with four smaller toys plugging in to form the limbs. The team was given an additional fifth small toy, however. All five small toys have a "weapon" mode—essentially their creature mode with a gun barrel attached—allowing any of them to be used by the combined robot as a Targetmaster weapon. Each small toy could also form a free-standing gun by attaching to a small stand included with the toy.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1990]])
{{anchor|actionmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Action Masters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[Razor-Sharp]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Jackpot (G1)|Jackpot]] with [[Sights (G1)|Sights]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Krok (G1)|Krok]] with [[Gatoraider]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[Push-Button]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Rad (G1)|Rad]] with [[Lionizer (G1)|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Rollout (G1)|Rollout]] with [[Glitch (G1)|Glitch]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[Top-Heavy]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[Catgut]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy PushButton.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Push-Button]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several [[Action Master]] figures include robotic partners who transform into weapons for the robot's use. Though not labeled as such at the time, 2003's ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye]]'' profile books retroactively dubbed these characters Targetmasters. Logically, the other partners not included in the series could be considered Targetmasters too, but have never officially been labeled as such.
|}

===Beast Wars===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Basics'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m1|[[Break]]}}
{{Bp-m1|[[Stampy (BWN)|Stampy]]}}
|
|[[File:BWN-toy Stampy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Stampy]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several of the ''Beast Wars Neo'' toys include third-mode weapon forms, which could be wielded by other toys.
|}

===Beast Machines===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2000]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m2|[[Dillo]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Mol]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Rav (BM)|Rav]]}}
|[[File:BeastMachinestoy-Mol.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Mol]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2003)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2003]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-p1|[[Chro]]<ref>Chro was called a Targetmaster in Cryotek's [http://botcon.com/archive/story/characters/cryotek.html BotCon online bio]. Chro is repurposed from Rav's blue deco.</ref>}}
|[[File:BM RavBlue-Chro-toy.jpg|upright=1.66|Chro the Raven, “Nevermore”.|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Collector's Edition===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Collector's Edition|Orion Pax]] (w/ [[Roller (G1)#Collector's Edition|Barrelroller]] and [[Dion (G1)#Collector's Edition|Dion]])}}
|[[File:Barrelroller g1.jpg|thumb|Barrelroller]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2008)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys#Universe (2008)|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:UniverseCyclonusCorrected.JPG|upright=1.66|thumb|Cyclonus]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
A re-imagining of their original designs.
|}

===Gentei! Gentei!===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] with [[Rocketbot]]}}
|
|[[File:Henkei-toy Rocketbot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Rocketbot]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
[[Redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}

===Timelines (Shattered Glass)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-sa|[[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (SG)|Holepunch]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (SG)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] with [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-sd|[[Cyclonus (SG)|Cyclonus]] with [[Krunix (SG)|Krunix]]}}
|
|[[File:SGtoy-Cyclonus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cyclonus]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Scoop, Crosshairs, Holepunch, Pinpointer and Nightstick are [[repurposing|repurposed]] toys from previous toylines. Cyclonus and Krunix are [[redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}
{{toystub}}

===United===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#United|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#United|Nightstick]] and [[Sparks#Toys|Sparks]])}}
|[[File:Unitedtoy-Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Artfire]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Targetmaster Microns'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Fracas]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Haywire]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Spoilsport]] (2011)}}
|
[[File:United-toy Recoil.jpg|Recoil|thumb|upright=1.66]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The ''[[Power Core Combiners]]'' [[Mini-Con]] molds are released as Targetmaster Microns in the Japanese toyline ''[[Transformers United]]''.<ref>[http://www.takaratomy.co.jp/products/TF/event/micron_01.html ''Transformers United'' official site]</ref>
|}

===Transformers (2010)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] (with [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]])}}
|
|[[File:Masterpiecetoy-Offshoot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Offshoot]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The North American release of Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] comes with a "Limited Edition" Targetmaster partner named [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]].
|}

===Masterpiece===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#Masterpiece|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#Masterpiece|Nightstick]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#MP-40|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Masterpiece|Firebolt]])}}
|[[File:Masterpiece MP-37 Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Artfire]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Generations===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Thrilling 30''' (2013-2014)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)#Generations|Autobot Scoop]] (w/ [[Holepunch (G1)#Generations|Holepunch]] & [[Tracer (Targetmaster)#Generations|Caliburst]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Combiner Wars''' (2014-2016)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)#Combiner Wars|TFSS Spinister]] (w/ [[Hairsplitter#Combiner Wars|Shrute]] & [[Singe#Generations|Singe]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)#Generations|TFSS Needlenose]] (w/ [[Sunbeam (G1)#Combiner Wars|Sunbeam]] & [[Zigzag#Combiner Wars|Zputty]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''War for Cybertron Trilogy''' (2018-2020)
{{Bp-d1|[[Blowpipe (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Blowpipe]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Firebolt (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Firedrive]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Aimless (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skywarp (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron: Siege|Skywarp]] (w/ [[Fracas#War for Cybertron: Siege|Fracas]] & [[Hairsplitter#War for Cybertron: Siege|Shrute)]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Hotlink (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Hotlink]] (w/ [[Heartburn#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heartburn]] & [[Heatstroke#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heatstroke)]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Megatron (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Decepticon Megatron]] (w/ [[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Lionizer]] and [[Pinpointer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Pinpointer]])}}

|[[File:Scoop-deluxe-generations.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Scoop]]
</ul>
|}
{{main|Battle Master}}
{{groupstub}}
{{-}}

===Legends===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Legends|Firebolt]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Cher]] (w/ [[Recoil (G1)#Legends|Recoil]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Triggerhappy]] (w/ [[Blowpipe (G1)#Legends|Blowpipe]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Doublecross#Legends|Targetmaster Doublecross]] (w/ [[Haywire#Legends|Haywire]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Misfire]] (w/ [[Aimless (G1)#Legends|Aimless]])}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Slugslinger]] (w/ [[Caliburst (G1)#Legends|Caliburst]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Windblade (G1)#LG62|Targetmaster Windblade]] (w/ [[Pinpointer (G1)#Legends|Pointech]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Topspin (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Topspin]] (w/ [[Peacemaker#Legends|Peaceman]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Twin Twist#Legends|Targetmaster Twin Twist]] (w/ [[Spoilsport#Legends|Spoil]])}}
|[[File:TF-LG-45-Targetmaster-Rodimus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Hot Rodimus]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

==Notes==
===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Targetmaster''' (ターゲットマスター ''Tāgettomasutā'')
*''Hungarian:'' '''Célmester''' (Marvel Comics, "Targetmaster")

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising subgroups]]
[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising technology]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Generation 1 technology]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:The Headmasters subgroups]]
[[Category:The Headmasters technology]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass subgroups]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass technology]]
[[Category:Targetmasters| ]]
[[Category:Wings Universe subgroups]]
[[Category:Wings Universe technology]]

Targetmaster (technology)

2021-05-07T23:18:08Z

Warpshard: /* Collector's Edition */ Adding Barrelroller's name to his caption

{{disambig3.5|the 1987 gimmick|the 2019 gimmick|Battle Master|Targetmaster}}
[[File:Desertislandofspace-targetmaster-rollcall.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cambot! Gypsy! Tom Servo! Croooooow!]]
The '''Targetmasters''' are a subset of Transformers [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] to smaller partners, who transform into their weapons. The partner is often an organic life form that has been bio-engineered to be partly mechanical, or wears a suit of armor that transforms around them to become the weapon.

The Targetmasters benefit from being able to take two minds into battle. A Targetmaster possesses a living weapon that is capable of making its own tactical decisions and target priorities. The advantage is similar to that of having a dedicated gunner aboard an aircraft or tank.

The Targetmaster process is often seen to follow shortly after development of the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] process. The earliest known Targetmasters were among the [[Autobot]]s and [[Decepticon]]s involved in the war on [[Nebulos]], and were paired with a bio-engineered [[Nebulan]] humanoid which wore a transforming exosuit. Later Targetmasters included virtually any Transformer specifically partnered with another being that becomes their weapon, not limited to Nebulans or organics. The term has been applied to the [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]] team<ref>[[Hasbro]]'s 1988 toy [[catalog]]</ref> and several [[Action Master]] pairings.<ref>''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]''</ref>

Some Transformers, known as '''Double-Targetmasters''', are bonded with two smaller partners who can form individual weapons or combine with one another to form a 'double weapon', with the power of whichever weapon forms the 'barrel' boosted by the other.

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics====
{{noteukonly}}
The first Targetmasters were a group of six Autobots under the command of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Fortress Maximus]]. Having traveled to the planet Nebulos in search of peace, this group surrendered their weapons to the natives to prove their peaceful intentions. {{storylink|Ring of Hate!}}

''Nebulon minds were duplicated and installed into transformable Nebulon-sized robots, creating the Targetmasters.'' {{storylink|The Final Conflict}}

{{note|This depiction of Targetmasters as robots with duplicated Nebulon minds and not actual Nebulons is unique to this story.}}

[[File:BrothersinArmor-Targetmasters.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4|Mouseketeer Roll Call! Cubby! Bobby! Gregor! Jimmy! Darlene! Annette!]]
Some time later, [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] and his Decepticon Headmaster partner [[Scorponok (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Scorponok]] had discredited the Autobots, turned public opinion against them, and driven them into retreat. A group of six Nebulan dissidents undertook a great risk to join the Autobots, allowing themselves to be bio-engineered into replacement weapons for the six unarmed Autobots. The Targetmasters became known as [[Peacemaker]], [[Spoilsport]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], [[Sparks]], and [[Haywire]].

The Autobot Targetmasters' first trial by combat came at the [[Nursery (Nebulos)|Nursery]], a horticultural research facility that was under threat by Zarak's Decepticons. The newly minted Targetmasters engaged Scorponok and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] in a battle for the Nursery, but retreated as the facility was being destroyed by the battle, regardless of who was winning.

[[File:Decepticon targetmasters brothers in armor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
[[Vorath]] was soon able to duplicate the Autobots' experiment, creating a group of five Decepticon Targetmasters, though they weren't quite a match for the Autobot Headmasters. All of the Targetmasters left Nebulos soon after, as the Autobots retreated to spare Nebulos further warfare, and the Decepticons pursued. {{storylink|Brothers in Armor!!}}

[[File:Pointblank worlds apart.jpg|thumb|left]]
''At some point before leaving Nebulos, the Decepticons captured [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]], [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] and took them back to their [[Fortress of Despair]], apparently because they couldn't perfect the Targetmaster process. After a brief skirmish with the Autobot Headmasters, they retreated and let the Autobots follow them...directly into a trap! It was not creating Targetmasters that Scorponok was struggling with, but Headmasters. Although [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] was able to release the Autobot Targetmasters, and with their partners [[Peacemaker]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], and [[Spoilsport]] they pretty much won the battle, Scorponok was able to escape with a captive [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] to study.'' {{storylink|Worlds Apart!}}

{{note|Only the eleven "large" Targetmasters are given an origin in the ''Headmasters'' mini-series, and there isn't a lot of room in the plot for others to have been made off-panel. Nevertheless, the [[The Transformers Universe|Marvel bios]] for several of the "small" (1988) Targetmasters imply they became Targetmasters at this time.}}

After arriving on [[Earth]], the Autobot Targetmasters subsequently went on a mission to rescue the human [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]] from the Decepticons. They were repulsed from the Decepticons' [[Club Con|island base]] by a phalanx of hidden weapons. {{storylink|The Desert Island of Space!}}

[[File:Nightstickwreckinghavoc.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
''Having left Scorponok's forces, [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] attempted to force their former leader [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] to hand over his [[time-jump trigger device]], backed up by their Targetmaster partners. When the meeting was interrupted by the [[Wrecker]]s and battle ensued, Springer attempted to relieve Cyclonus of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] but was taken aback when the gun transformed and ran away from him.'' {{storylink|Wrecking Havoc}}

[[File:Nightstickcrushed.jpg|thumb|left|100px]]
''Nightstick would not prove to be nearly so fortunate when Cyclonus and Scourge attempted to forge an alliance with the current [[Decepticon leader]] [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]]. When negotiations went badly, Shockwave sent a [[Straxus (G1)|clone]] of [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] to kill Cyclonus and crush his gun.'' {{storylink|Dry Run!}}

''[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], along with [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] and [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], led an attack on an Autobot [[Ark shuttlecraft|shuttle]] to retrieve Scorponok's head from Highbrow, but once he had been reassembled they were spirited away to [[Limbo]] to make way for [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] from the future. Meanwhile, Scourge and [[Fracas]] were fighting alongside Galvatron and the Megatron clone against the Wreckers and [[Mayhem Attack Squad|Mayhems]]. Ultimately the present-day Targetmasters reappeared when Soundwave returned his troops to their own time, but Cyclonus and Scourge vanished into the [[time rift]].'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}

Additional Targetmasters may or may not have been created as the war went on. [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] and [[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] were both seen using weapons resembling their Targetmaster partners, but their individual circumstances do not seem to easily allow for them to have been on Nebulos to acquire Targetmaster partners. {{storylink|Yesterday's Heroes!}}

Recoil was among the weapons surrendered by the Autobots to the Decepticons as part of preparation for an alliance against [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]]. {{storylink|Surrender!}}
{{-}}

====Marvel UK future timelines====
[[File:Targetmaster-nomore.jpg|thumb|Hot Rod is no longer a Targetmaster as he mourns Firebolt's death.]]
In the year [[2007]], Autobot leader [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] reminisced about the war; on Nebulos where he first teamed up with his Targetmaster partner [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]] and later, on Earth, when Firebolt died under unspecified circumstances. {{storylink|Headhunt}}
{{-}}

====Earthforce====
{{earthforcefiction}}
[[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]] noted the double-paired Targetmasters known as Double-Targetmasters among his list of complaints about how complicated things had gotten in his absence. {{storylink|Starting Over!}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
The Targetmaster process was developed eons ago on Cybertron, as a process to forge a warrior and his weapon into a cohesive fighting team. The two are linked on a mental and physical level, allowing them to draw energy from each other and multitask with extreme efficiency. Targetmaster weapons cannot be wielded by another being without their consent unless they are somehow incapacitated in their weapon configuration. Severe injury or death of one partner can have a profound physical and emotional impact on the other.

The Targetmaster process was further expanded upon on the planet Nebulon. This would allow organic humanoids, not just mechanoids, to function as weapons when adorned with removable armor. The strength and endurance of these modified beings were greatly enhanced, though their appearance does not change. {{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye issue 8}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====American cartoon continuity====
[[File:Targetmasters.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Here's me, and here's my gun!]]
The creation of Targetmasters and [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], in this continuity, started with an initial idea of Brainstorm's that Autobots should use [[human]] partners while driving to help with steering and speed, this idea was confirmed when a race between [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]] and [[Blurr (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blurr]] was won not by Blurr's speed, but by [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]]'s help in driving Hot Rod. [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], however, was very sceptical about this idea.

After a large scale Decepticon attack, several Autobots, [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike]], and Daniel crash-landed on [[Nebulos]]; where the Autobots were taken captive by the inhabitants. After a Decepticon attack in which Daniel Witwicky was injured and put on life support, several Autobots were kidnapped by Decepticons.

The Nebulan warriors explained their situation with the [[Hive (G1)|Hive]] to the Autobots, and why they didn't trust them at first, and came to an agreement. Using Brainstorm's idea, they would use their and Daniel's minds with the Autobots' bodies to be powerful enough to defeat the Hive and save the others. Thus were born the Headmasters. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 1}}

Once the Headmasters got to know their partners, they set off to rescue the five captured captured Autobots. After some torture, Hot Rod, [[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]], Blurr, [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] were all saved by the Headmasters.

After witnessing the power of secondary operators, the Decepticons and other Autobots saw the logic in having some of their own.

The defeated Decepticons were captured by the hive and taken to their underground base of operations. [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]], the leader of the hive gave the Decepticons an opportunity to become powerful like the Autobot Headmasters at the literal cost of their heads. [[Cyclonus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Scourge]] agreed to let the Nebulans make Headmasters only out of the Decepticons there with beast modes, they however would only let the organic beings into their weapons. So [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]], [[Apeface]], [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]], [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]], and [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] were turned into Headmasters, [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]], [[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], Scourge, and Cyclonus had their weapons modified so that hive members could fit into and transform into them.

[[File:Cyclonus tm.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|*ptew ptew*]]
[[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], meanwhile had found a city and told the news to the other Autobots, damaging himself in the process. The Nebulans fixed him and believed the city he talked about to be the hive's old base from before they moved underground. The Decepticons, now with their Nebulan partners, attacked the Autobots again. Brainstorm was mad that the Decepticons stole his idea, the Head and Targetmasters and the Decepticons overwhelmed the Autobots and stole the key to the plasma energy chamber from them before the hive convinced the Decepticons to go back to Zarak to await orders.

[[File:Rebirth2 Blurr with gun.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.1|"Haywire you're grey and black, now stop looking like my old gun."
"Aww, but this model is so much nicer."]]
Brainstorm, to even the odds, showed his fellow Autobots scans of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]], showing how the Decepticons modified their guns and used the Nebulan tech to modify the non-Headmaster Autobot's guns and have Nebulan partners inside them. Hot Rod, Kup, Blurr, Crosshairs, Pointblank, and [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]]'s guns were modified and became the Autobot Targetmasters.

[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] then showed up on Nebulos and was introduced to the Autobot's Headmaster and Targetmaster partners. He was also informed that the Decepticons also had access to the same technology and the key to the plasma energy chamber. The Autobots went to the Decepticons to fight but they and their Nebulan partners had nearly completed their project. The Decepticons engaged the Autobots in combat but were surprised to see that the Autobots now had Targetmaster partners too.

The Autobots, however, were much more surprised to see that Zarak had created something big using the same Headmaster technology both factions had: [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 2}} {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 3}}
{{-}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
[[File:Tf headmaster 29 pointblank target on.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|FIRE IN THE HOLE!]]
In Japanese continuities, Targetmaster partners hail from the planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], but unlike the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] they are partnered with a regular Transformer as opposed to a [[Transtector]]. This fusion came about in a blast which binary-bonded a group of refugees from Master to the arms of the new Autobot recruits, as well as the Decepticon marauders, who were terrorizing the refugees in the first place. Unlike in the U.S. continuity and toys, when the Masters transform into gun mode, they take the place of their larger partner's entire hand instead of being held by it.

[[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]] and [[Artfire]] have Targetmasters, even though they were not present for the explosion. The Japanese Targetmasters speak in a series of electronic beeps (like the [[Mini-Con]]s) that only their bonded partner can understand, instead of speaking normally like their Headmaster brethren.
{{-}}

====''Wings Universe''====
{{wingsnote}}
[[Tornado]] was a Targetmaster, usually wielded by his [[Squadron X]] leader [[Macabre]] and later [[Ferak]]. {{storylink|Tornado - Decepticon Saboteur|Torando - Decepticon Saboteur, 2014/06/10}}

Following the [[Great Transformation]], [[Flareup (G1)|Flareup]] found herself stationed at [[New Polyhex]], where she became a star pupil while training under the ancient and enigmatic Target Masters before being recruited into the [[Cybertronian Knight]]s. {{storylink|Flareup (G1)#BotCon2014|BotCon 2014 Knight Flareup profile card}}

===''Shattered Glass''===
[[File:Crosshairs SG.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb]]
In this reverse universe, the Targetmasters take a much more active role in battle: they can take all motor control over the limb of whoever is holding them. The small partners are [[Micromaster]]s with three modes: robot, vehicle, and weapon.

[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] devised a plan to keep the Decepticons stranded on Cybertron while the Autobots fled to Earth. To execute this plan, he, [[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]], and [[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] took Targetmaster partners. [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]] was easily able to take down Megatron, but the Decepticon Micromasters were able to thwart the entire group of Targetmasters, allowing Megatron to free himself. {{storylink|Do Over}}

===''TransTech''===
After a bad experience with "colonists" from the [[Aurex]] Cluster, Nebulos made their atmosphere poisonous to Cybertronian life. In order to safely go undercover on this world, [[Vector Prime]] was binary bonded with [[Safeguard (TransTech)|Safeguard]], a friendly native. In addition to processing Vector Prime's fuel, he could also become a handheld weapon, making him a Target/Powermaster. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/11/01}}

===''Beast Wars: Uprising''===
Targetmaster technology was first created in the 21st century, by the Nebulans [[Teslor]] and [[Arcana]], as an enhancement to the already-existing Headmaster technology. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}} The process involved the subjects mingling their sparks, granting both a dramatic boost in power, such as being able to shoot down ships from orbit. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}} The technology gave the Autobots a temporary advantage in the war for Nebulos, until [[Fracas]] and [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] defected to the Decepticons, taking the Targetmaster process with them.

When the war spread to the planet [[Master (planet)|Rebirth]], the [[Malignus (G1)|Malignus]] scientist [[Nucleon (Generations)|Nucleon]] adapted the process to work with Cyberdroid physiology. Along with the Powermaster and Headmaster technology, it was used to create the [[Triple-Threat Master]] technology as well. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}}

Towards the end of the war, the mad Decepticon [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] found out the Targetmasters' ability to draw power from their wielder's Sparks could be amplified, and took the ability to its conclusion: being able to draw the life out of a Cybertronian just being near them. Terrified by this discovery, Autobots and Decepticons alike arranged for the Targetmasters, organic and Cybertronian alike, to be granted exile when the war ended. However, this was a ruse, and both sides arranged for the mass murder of all Targetmasters to prevent their powers being used ever again. The systematic eradication was later dubbed the "[[Targetmaster Extirpation]]". However, a few Targetmasters did survive, and went into hiding on a Cybertron now utterly hostile to their kind.

In the 24th century, one of the last Targetmasters, [[Twirl (G1)|Twirl]], was killed by [[Overrun]] when she considered outing herself. This sequence of events led to Overrun himself dying to prevent anyone else getting their hands on him. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1987]])
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[Haywire]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Hot Rod]] with [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] with [[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Pointblank]] with [[Peacemaker]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[Spoilsport]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Crosshairs.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Crosshairs]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Autobot Targetmasters were sold boxed with their Targetmaster partners, and consisted of three all-new molds alongside slightly retooled versions of Hot Rod, Kup, and Blurr from the previous year's assortment. The three older molds featured enlarged fist holes, allowing them to hold their new weapons. Both old and new molds transform into futuristic/Cybertronian ground vehicles. All six can mount their Targetmaster weapon on their roof or hood while in vehicle mode.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]] with [[Aimless (G1)|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[Fracas]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] with [[Blowpipe (G1)|Blowpipe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Misfire.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Misfire]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Similar to their Autobot counterparts, the Decepticon Targetmasters feature three new jet molds alongside retooled versions of Cyclonus and Scourge with enlarged fist holes. All five transform into futuristic/Cybertronian aircraft. Their weapons can be mounted on top of them in jet form. The three newer molds were also sold in 1988.
|}

{{anchor|JapaneseTargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Japanese-original Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Stepper ([[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]]) with [[Nebulon (Headmasters)|Nebulon]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire]] with [[Nightstick (Headmasters)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Stepper.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Stepper]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Artfire and Ricochet are [[redeco]]s and [[retool]]ings of the original toys for [[Inferno (G1)#Toys|Inferno]] and [[Jazz (G1)/toys#Generation 1|Jazz]], respectively. They each come with the Targetmaster partner molds that were used as Fracas and Nightstick in the US.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1988]])
{{anchor|doubletargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] with [[Flintlock]] and [[Silencer (G1)|Silencer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] with [[Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (G1)|Ricochet]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Targetmaster)|Tracer]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Landfill.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nebulan-on-Nebulan action!]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Often referred to as the "small Targetmasters" to distinguish them from the larger 1987 releases, these toys were sold carded. Each toy includes two smaller Targetmaster partners, each of which can form a gun or combine together as a larger gun. The two guns can also mount on the robot's vehicle form. The three Autobots share a construction vehicle theme. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] with [[Sunbeam (G1)|Sunbeam]] and [[Zigzag]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Quake (G1)|Quake]] with [[Tiptop]] and [[Heater]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] with [[Hairsplitter]] and [[Singe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Quake.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Quake]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Decepticon "small Targetmasters" were sold carded with two Targetmaster partners each. Like the 1988 Autobots, these partners can form independent or combined weapons, and mount on their partner Transformers' vehicle forms or be wielded by them in robot mode. The three Transformers all turn into military vehicles. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{{anchor|seacons}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Seacons'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Nautilator]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skalor]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]]}}
|
|[[File:Nautilatorg1toy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nautilator]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Seacons are a [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1986 (Scramble City and 2010)|Scramble City]]-style combiner team, with [[Snaptrap (G1)|a large leader toy]] who forms the torso of a larger robot, with four smaller toys plugging in to form the limbs. The team was given an additional fifth small toy, however. All five small toys have a "weapon" mode—essentially their creature mode with a gun barrel attached—allowing any of them to be used by the combined robot as a Targetmaster weapon. Each small toy could also form a free-standing gun by attaching to a small stand included with the toy.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1990]])
{{anchor|actionmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Action Masters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[Razor-Sharp]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Jackpot (G1)|Jackpot]] with [[Sights (G1)|Sights]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Krok (G1)|Krok]] with [[Gatoraider]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[Push-Button]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Rad (G1)|Rad]] with [[Lionizer (G1)|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Rollout (G1)|Rollout]] with [[Glitch (G1)|Glitch]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[Top-Heavy]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[Catgut]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy PushButton.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Push-Button]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several [[Action Master]] figures include robotic partners who transform into weapons for the robot's use. Though not labeled as such at the time, 2003's ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye]]'' profile books retroactively dubbed these characters Targetmasters. Logically, the other partners not included in the series could be considered Targetmasters too, but have never officially been labeled as such.
|}

===Beast Wars===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Basics'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m1|[[Break]]}}
{{Bp-m1|[[Stampy (BWN)|Stampy]]}}
|
|[[File:BWN-toy Stampy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Stampy]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several of the ''Beast Wars Neo'' toys include third-mode weapon forms, which could be wielded by other toys.
|}

===Beast Machines===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2000]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m2|[[Dillo]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Mol]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Rav (BM)|Rav]]}}
|[[File:BeastMachinestoy-Mol.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Mol]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2003)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2003]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-p1|[[Chro]]<ref>Chro was called a Targetmaster in Cryotek's [http://botcon.com/archive/story/characters/cryotek.html BotCon online bio]. Chro is repurposed from Rav's blue deco.</ref>}}
|[[File:BM RavBlue-Chro-toy.jpg|upright=1.66|Chro the Raven, “Nevermore”.|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Collector's Edition===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Collector's Edition|Orion Pax]] (w/ [[Roller (G1)#Collector's Edition|Barrelroller]] and [[Dion (G1)#Collector's Edition|Dion]])}}
|[[File:Barrelroller g1.jpg|thumb|Barrelroller]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2008)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys#Universe (2008)|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:UniverseCyclonusCorrected.JPG|upright=1.66|thumb|Cyclonus]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
A re-imagining of their original designs.
|}

===Gentei! Gentei!===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] with [[Rocketbot]]}}
|
|[[File:Henkei-toy Rocketbot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Rocketbot]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
[[Redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}

===Timelines (Shattered Glass)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-sa|[[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (SG)|Holepunch]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (SG)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] with [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-sd|[[Cyclonus (SG)|Cyclonus]] with [[Krunix (SG)|Krunix]]}}
|
|[[File:SGtoy-Cyclonus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cyclonus]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Scoop, Crosshairs, Holepunch, Pinpointer and Nightstick are [[repurposing|repurposed]] toys from previous toylines. Cyclonus and Krunix are [[redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}
{{toystub}}

===United===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#United|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#United|Nightstick]] and [[Sparks#Toys|Sparks]])}}
|[[File:Unitedtoy-Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Artfire]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Targetmaster Microns'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Fracas]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Haywire]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Spoilsport]] (2011)}}
|
[[File:United-toy Recoil.jpg|Recoil|thumb|upright=1.66]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The ''[[Power Core Combiners]]'' [[Mini-Con]] molds are released as Targetmaster Microns in the Japanese toyline ''[[Transformers United]]''.<ref>[http://www.takaratomy.co.jp/products/TF/event/micron_01.html ''Transformers United'' official site]</ref>
|}

===Transformers (2010)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] (with [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]])}}
|
|[[File:Masterpiecetoy-Offshoot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Offshoot]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The North American release of Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] comes with a "Limited Edition" Targetmaster partner named [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]].
|}

===Masterpiece===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#Masterpiece|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#Masterpiece|Nightstick]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#MP-40|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Masterpiece|Firebolt]])}}
|[[File:Masterpiece MP-37 Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Artfire]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Generations===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Thrilling 30''' (2013-2014)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)#Generations|Autobot Scoop]] (w/ [[Holepunch (G1)#Generations|Holepunch]] & [[Tracer (Targetmaster)#Generations|Caliburst]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Combiner Wars''' (2014-2016)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)#Combiner Wars|TFSS Spinister]] (w/ [[Hairsplitter#Combiner Wars|Shrute]] & [[Singe#Generations|Singe]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)#Generations|TFSS Needlenose]] (w/ [[Sunbeam (G1)#Combiner Wars|Sunbeam]] & [[Zigzag#Combiner Wars|Zputty]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''War for Cybertron Trilogy''' (2018-2020)
{{Bp-d1|[[Blowpipe (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Blowpipe]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Firebolt (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Firedrive]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Aimless (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skywarp (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron: Siege|Skywarp]] (w/ [[Fracas#War for Cybertron: Siege|Fracas]] & [[Hairsplitter#War for Cybertron: Siege|Shrute)]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Hotlink (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Hotlink]] (w/ [[Heartburn#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heartburn]] & [[Heatstroke#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heatstroke)]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Megatron (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Decepticon Megatron]] (w/ [[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Lionizer]] and [[Pinpointer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Pinpointer]])}}

|[[File:Scoop-deluxe-generations.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Scoop]]
</ul>
|}
{{main|Battle Master}}
{{groupstub}}
{{-}}

===Legends===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Legends|Firebolt]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Cher]] (w/ [[Recoil (G1)#Legends|Recoil]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Triggerhappy]] (w/ [[Blowpipe (G1)#Legends|Blowpipe]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Doublecross#Legends|Targetmaster Doublecross]] (w/ [[Haywire#Legends|Haywire]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Misfire]] (w/ [[Aimless (G1)#Legends|Aimless]])}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Slugslinger]] (w/ [[Caliburst (G1)#Legends|Caliburst]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Windblade (G1)#LG62|Targetmaster Windblade]] (w/ [[Pinpointer (G1)#Legends|Pointech]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Topspin (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Topspin]] (w/ [[Peacemaker#Legends|Peaceman]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Twin Twist#Legends|Targetmaster Twin Twist]] (w/ [[Spoilsport#Legends|Spoil]])}}
|[[File:TF-LG-45-Targetmaster-Rodimus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Hot Rodimus]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

==Notes==
===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Targetmaster''' (ターゲットマスター ''Tāgettomasutā'')
*''Hungarian:'' '''Célmester''' (Marvel Comics, "Targetmaster")

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising subgroups]]
[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising technology]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Generation 1 technology]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:The Headmasters subgroups]]
[[Category:The Headmasters technology]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass subgroups]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass technology]]
[[Category:Targetmasters| ]]
[[Category:Wings Universe subgroups]]
[[Category:Wings Universe technology]]

Targetmaster (technology)

2021-05-07T23:17:34Z

Warpshard: /* Transformers (2010) */ Adding Offshoot's name to his caption

{{disambig3.5|the 1987 gimmick|the 2019 gimmick|Battle Master|Targetmaster}}
[[File:Desertislandofspace-targetmaster-rollcall.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cambot! Gypsy! Tom Servo! Croooooow!]]
The '''Targetmasters''' are a subset of Transformers [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] to smaller partners, who transform into their weapons. The partner is often an organic life form that has been bio-engineered to be partly mechanical, or wears a suit of armor that transforms around them to become the weapon.

The Targetmasters benefit from being able to take two minds into battle. A Targetmaster possesses a living weapon that is capable of making its own tactical decisions and target priorities. The advantage is similar to that of having a dedicated gunner aboard an aircraft or tank.

The Targetmaster process is often seen to follow shortly after development of the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] process. The earliest known Targetmasters were among the [[Autobot]]s and [[Decepticon]]s involved in the war on [[Nebulos]], and were paired with a bio-engineered [[Nebulan]] humanoid which wore a transforming exosuit. Later Targetmasters included virtually any Transformer specifically partnered with another being that becomes their weapon, not limited to Nebulans or organics. The term has been applied to the [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]] team<ref>[[Hasbro]]'s 1988 toy [[catalog]]</ref> and several [[Action Master]] pairings.<ref>''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]''</ref>

Some Transformers, known as '''Double-Targetmasters''', are bonded with two smaller partners who can form individual weapons or combine with one another to form a 'double weapon', with the power of whichever weapon forms the 'barrel' boosted by the other.

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics====
{{noteukonly}}
The first Targetmasters were a group of six Autobots under the command of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Fortress Maximus]]. Having traveled to the planet Nebulos in search of peace, this group surrendered their weapons to the natives to prove their peaceful intentions. {{storylink|Ring of Hate!}}

''Nebulon minds were duplicated and installed into transformable Nebulon-sized robots, creating the Targetmasters.'' {{storylink|The Final Conflict}}

{{note|This depiction of Targetmasters as robots with duplicated Nebulon minds and not actual Nebulons is unique to this story.}}

[[File:BrothersinArmor-Targetmasters.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4|Mouseketeer Roll Call! Cubby! Bobby! Gregor! Jimmy! Darlene! Annette!]]
Some time later, [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] and his Decepticon Headmaster partner [[Scorponok (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Scorponok]] had discredited the Autobots, turned public opinion against them, and driven them into retreat. A group of six Nebulan dissidents undertook a great risk to join the Autobots, allowing themselves to be bio-engineered into replacement weapons for the six unarmed Autobots. The Targetmasters became known as [[Peacemaker]], [[Spoilsport]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], [[Sparks]], and [[Haywire]].

The Autobot Targetmasters' first trial by combat came at the [[Nursery (Nebulos)|Nursery]], a horticultural research facility that was under threat by Zarak's Decepticons. The newly minted Targetmasters engaged Scorponok and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] in a battle for the Nursery, but retreated as the facility was being destroyed by the battle, regardless of who was winning.

[[File:Decepticon targetmasters brothers in armor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
[[Vorath]] was soon able to duplicate the Autobots' experiment, creating a group of five Decepticon Targetmasters, though they weren't quite a match for the Autobot Headmasters. All of the Targetmasters left Nebulos soon after, as the Autobots retreated to spare Nebulos further warfare, and the Decepticons pursued. {{storylink|Brothers in Armor!!}}

[[File:Pointblank worlds apart.jpg|thumb|left]]
''At some point before leaving Nebulos, the Decepticons captured [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]], [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] and took them back to their [[Fortress of Despair]], apparently because they couldn't perfect the Targetmaster process. After a brief skirmish with the Autobot Headmasters, they retreated and let the Autobots follow them...directly into a trap! It was not creating Targetmasters that Scorponok was struggling with, but Headmasters. Although [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] was able to release the Autobot Targetmasters, and with their partners [[Peacemaker]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], and [[Spoilsport]] they pretty much won the battle, Scorponok was able to escape with a captive [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] to study.'' {{storylink|Worlds Apart!}}

{{note|Only the eleven "large" Targetmasters are given an origin in the ''Headmasters'' mini-series, and there isn't a lot of room in the plot for others to have been made off-panel. Nevertheless, the [[The Transformers Universe|Marvel bios]] for several of the "small" (1988) Targetmasters imply they became Targetmasters at this time.}}

After arriving on [[Earth]], the Autobot Targetmasters subsequently went on a mission to rescue the human [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]] from the Decepticons. They were repulsed from the Decepticons' [[Club Con|island base]] by a phalanx of hidden weapons. {{storylink|The Desert Island of Space!}}

[[File:Nightstickwreckinghavoc.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
''Having left Scorponok's forces, [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] attempted to force their former leader [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] to hand over his [[time-jump trigger device]], backed up by their Targetmaster partners. When the meeting was interrupted by the [[Wrecker]]s and battle ensued, Springer attempted to relieve Cyclonus of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] but was taken aback when the gun transformed and ran away from him.'' {{storylink|Wrecking Havoc}}

[[File:Nightstickcrushed.jpg|thumb|left|100px]]
''Nightstick would not prove to be nearly so fortunate when Cyclonus and Scourge attempted to forge an alliance with the current [[Decepticon leader]] [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]]. When negotiations went badly, Shockwave sent a [[Straxus (G1)|clone]] of [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] to kill Cyclonus and crush his gun.'' {{storylink|Dry Run!}}

''[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], along with [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] and [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], led an attack on an Autobot [[Ark shuttlecraft|shuttle]] to retrieve Scorponok's head from Highbrow, but once he had been reassembled they were spirited away to [[Limbo]] to make way for [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] from the future. Meanwhile, Scourge and [[Fracas]] were fighting alongside Galvatron and the Megatron clone against the Wreckers and [[Mayhem Attack Squad|Mayhems]]. Ultimately the present-day Targetmasters reappeared when Soundwave returned his troops to their own time, but Cyclonus and Scourge vanished into the [[time rift]].'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}

Additional Targetmasters may or may not have been created as the war went on. [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] and [[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] were both seen using weapons resembling their Targetmaster partners, but their individual circumstances do not seem to easily allow for them to have been on Nebulos to acquire Targetmaster partners. {{storylink|Yesterday's Heroes!}}

Recoil was among the weapons surrendered by the Autobots to the Decepticons as part of preparation for an alliance against [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]]. {{storylink|Surrender!}}
{{-}}

====Marvel UK future timelines====
[[File:Targetmaster-nomore.jpg|thumb|Hot Rod is no longer a Targetmaster as he mourns Firebolt's death.]]
In the year [[2007]], Autobot leader [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] reminisced about the war; on Nebulos where he first teamed up with his Targetmaster partner [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]] and later, on Earth, when Firebolt died under unspecified circumstances. {{storylink|Headhunt}}
{{-}}

====Earthforce====
{{earthforcefiction}}
[[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]] noted the double-paired Targetmasters known as Double-Targetmasters among his list of complaints about how complicated things had gotten in his absence. {{storylink|Starting Over!}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
The Targetmaster process was developed eons ago on Cybertron, as a process to forge a warrior and his weapon into a cohesive fighting team. The two are linked on a mental and physical level, allowing them to draw energy from each other and multitask with extreme efficiency. Targetmaster weapons cannot be wielded by another being without their consent unless they are somehow incapacitated in their weapon configuration. Severe injury or death of one partner can have a profound physical and emotional impact on the other.

The Targetmaster process was further expanded upon on the planet Nebulon. This would allow organic humanoids, not just mechanoids, to function as weapons when adorned with removable armor. The strength and endurance of these modified beings were greatly enhanced, though their appearance does not change. {{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye issue 8}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====American cartoon continuity====
[[File:Targetmasters.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Here's me, and here's my gun!]]
The creation of Targetmasters and [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], in this continuity, started with an initial idea of Brainstorm's that Autobots should use [[human]] partners while driving to help with steering and speed, this idea was confirmed when a race between [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]] and [[Blurr (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blurr]] was won not by Blurr's speed, but by [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]]'s help in driving Hot Rod. [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], however, was very sceptical about this idea.

After a large scale Decepticon attack, several Autobots, [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike]], and Daniel crash-landed on [[Nebulos]]; where the Autobots were taken captive by the inhabitants. After a Decepticon attack in which Daniel Witwicky was injured and put on life support, several Autobots were kidnapped by Decepticons.

The Nebulan warriors explained their situation with the [[Hive (G1)|Hive]] to the Autobots, and why they didn't trust them at first, and came to an agreement. Using Brainstorm's idea, they would use their and Daniel's minds with the Autobots' bodies to be powerful enough to defeat the Hive and save the others. Thus were born the Headmasters. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 1}}

Once the Headmasters got to know their partners, they set off to rescue the five captured captured Autobots. After some torture, Hot Rod, [[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]], Blurr, [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] were all saved by the Headmasters.

After witnessing the power of secondary operators, the Decepticons and other Autobots saw the logic in having some of their own.

The defeated Decepticons were captured by the hive and taken to their underground base of operations. [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]], the leader of the hive gave the Decepticons an opportunity to become powerful like the Autobot Headmasters at the literal cost of their heads. [[Cyclonus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Scourge]] agreed to let the Nebulans make Headmasters only out of the Decepticons there with beast modes, they however would only let the organic beings into their weapons. So [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]], [[Apeface]], [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]], [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]], and [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] were turned into Headmasters, [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]], [[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], Scourge, and Cyclonus had their weapons modified so that hive members could fit into and transform into them.

[[File:Cyclonus tm.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|*ptew ptew*]]
[[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], meanwhile had found a city and told the news to the other Autobots, damaging himself in the process. The Nebulans fixed him and believed the city he talked about to be the hive's old base from before they moved underground. The Decepticons, now with their Nebulan partners, attacked the Autobots again. Brainstorm was mad that the Decepticons stole his idea, the Head and Targetmasters and the Decepticons overwhelmed the Autobots and stole the key to the plasma energy chamber from them before the hive convinced the Decepticons to go back to Zarak to await orders.

[[File:Rebirth2 Blurr with gun.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.1|"Haywire you're grey and black, now stop looking like my old gun."
"Aww, but this model is so much nicer."]]
Brainstorm, to even the odds, showed his fellow Autobots scans of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]], showing how the Decepticons modified their guns and used the Nebulan tech to modify the non-Headmaster Autobot's guns and have Nebulan partners inside them. Hot Rod, Kup, Blurr, Crosshairs, Pointblank, and [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]]'s guns were modified and became the Autobot Targetmasters.

[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] then showed up on Nebulos and was introduced to the Autobot's Headmaster and Targetmaster partners. He was also informed that the Decepticons also had access to the same technology and the key to the plasma energy chamber. The Autobots went to the Decepticons to fight but they and their Nebulan partners had nearly completed their project. The Decepticons engaged the Autobots in combat but were surprised to see that the Autobots now had Targetmaster partners too.

The Autobots, however, were much more surprised to see that Zarak had created something big using the same Headmaster technology both factions had: [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 2}} {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 3}}
{{-}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
[[File:Tf headmaster 29 pointblank target on.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|FIRE IN THE HOLE!]]
In Japanese continuities, Targetmaster partners hail from the planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], but unlike the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] they are partnered with a regular Transformer as opposed to a [[Transtector]]. This fusion came about in a blast which binary-bonded a group of refugees from Master to the arms of the new Autobot recruits, as well as the Decepticon marauders, who were terrorizing the refugees in the first place. Unlike in the U.S. continuity and toys, when the Masters transform into gun mode, they take the place of their larger partner's entire hand instead of being held by it.

[[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]] and [[Artfire]] have Targetmasters, even though they were not present for the explosion. The Japanese Targetmasters speak in a series of electronic beeps (like the [[Mini-Con]]s) that only their bonded partner can understand, instead of speaking normally like their Headmaster brethren.
{{-}}

====''Wings Universe''====
{{wingsnote}}
[[Tornado]] was a Targetmaster, usually wielded by his [[Squadron X]] leader [[Macabre]] and later [[Ferak]]. {{storylink|Tornado - Decepticon Saboteur|Torando - Decepticon Saboteur, 2014/06/10}}

Following the [[Great Transformation]], [[Flareup (G1)|Flareup]] found herself stationed at [[New Polyhex]], where she became a star pupil while training under the ancient and enigmatic Target Masters before being recruited into the [[Cybertronian Knight]]s. {{storylink|Flareup (G1)#BotCon2014|BotCon 2014 Knight Flareup profile card}}

===''Shattered Glass''===
[[File:Crosshairs SG.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb]]
In this reverse universe, the Targetmasters take a much more active role in battle: they can take all motor control over the limb of whoever is holding them. The small partners are [[Micromaster]]s with three modes: robot, vehicle, and weapon.

[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] devised a plan to keep the Decepticons stranded on Cybertron while the Autobots fled to Earth. To execute this plan, he, [[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]], and [[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] took Targetmaster partners. [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]] was easily able to take down Megatron, but the Decepticon Micromasters were able to thwart the entire group of Targetmasters, allowing Megatron to free himself. {{storylink|Do Over}}

===''TransTech''===
After a bad experience with "colonists" from the [[Aurex]] Cluster, Nebulos made their atmosphere poisonous to Cybertronian life. In order to safely go undercover on this world, [[Vector Prime]] was binary bonded with [[Safeguard (TransTech)|Safeguard]], a friendly native. In addition to processing Vector Prime's fuel, he could also become a handheld weapon, making him a Target/Powermaster. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/11/01}}

===''Beast Wars: Uprising''===
Targetmaster technology was first created in the 21st century, by the Nebulans [[Teslor]] and [[Arcana]], as an enhancement to the already-existing Headmaster technology. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}} The process involved the subjects mingling their sparks, granting both a dramatic boost in power, such as being able to shoot down ships from orbit. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}} The technology gave the Autobots a temporary advantage in the war for Nebulos, until [[Fracas]] and [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] defected to the Decepticons, taking the Targetmaster process with them.

When the war spread to the planet [[Master (planet)|Rebirth]], the [[Malignus (G1)|Malignus]] scientist [[Nucleon (Generations)|Nucleon]] adapted the process to work with Cyberdroid physiology. Along with the Powermaster and Headmaster technology, it was used to create the [[Triple-Threat Master]] technology as well. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}}

Towards the end of the war, the mad Decepticon [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] found out the Targetmasters' ability to draw power from their wielder's Sparks could be amplified, and took the ability to its conclusion: being able to draw the life out of a Cybertronian just being near them. Terrified by this discovery, Autobots and Decepticons alike arranged for the Targetmasters, organic and Cybertronian alike, to be granted exile when the war ended. However, this was a ruse, and both sides arranged for the mass murder of all Targetmasters to prevent their powers being used ever again. The systematic eradication was later dubbed the "[[Targetmaster Extirpation]]". However, a few Targetmasters did survive, and went into hiding on a Cybertron now utterly hostile to their kind.

In the 24th century, one of the last Targetmasters, [[Twirl (G1)|Twirl]], was killed by [[Overrun]] when she considered outing herself. This sequence of events led to Overrun himself dying to prevent anyone else getting their hands on him. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1987]])
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[Haywire]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Hot Rod]] with [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] with [[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Pointblank]] with [[Peacemaker]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[Spoilsport]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Crosshairs.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Crosshairs]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Autobot Targetmasters were sold boxed with their Targetmaster partners, and consisted of three all-new molds alongside slightly retooled versions of Hot Rod, Kup, and Blurr from the previous year's assortment. The three older molds featured enlarged fist holes, allowing them to hold their new weapons. Both old and new molds transform into futuristic/Cybertronian ground vehicles. All six can mount their Targetmaster weapon on their roof or hood while in vehicle mode.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]] with [[Aimless (G1)|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[Fracas]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] with [[Blowpipe (G1)|Blowpipe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Misfire.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Misfire]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Similar to their Autobot counterparts, the Decepticon Targetmasters feature three new jet molds alongside retooled versions of Cyclonus and Scourge with enlarged fist holes. All five transform into futuristic/Cybertronian aircraft. Their weapons can be mounted on top of them in jet form. The three newer molds were also sold in 1988.
|}

{{anchor|JapaneseTargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Japanese-original Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Stepper ([[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]]) with [[Nebulon (Headmasters)|Nebulon]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire]] with [[Nightstick (Headmasters)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Stepper.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Stepper]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Artfire and Ricochet are [[redeco]]s and [[retool]]ings of the original toys for [[Inferno (G1)#Toys|Inferno]] and [[Jazz (G1)/toys#Generation 1|Jazz]], respectively. They each come with the Targetmaster partner molds that were used as Fracas and Nightstick in the US.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1988]])
{{anchor|doubletargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] with [[Flintlock]] and [[Silencer (G1)|Silencer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] with [[Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (G1)|Ricochet]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Targetmaster)|Tracer]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Landfill.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nebulan-on-Nebulan action!]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Often referred to as the "small Targetmasters" to distinguish them from the larger 1987 releases, these toys were sold carded. Each toy includes two smaller Targetmaster partners, each of which can form a gun or combine together as a larger gun. The two guns can also mount on the robot's vehicle form. The three Autobots share a construction vehicle theme. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] with [[Sunbeam (G1)|Sunbeam]] and [[Zigzag]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Quake (G1)|Quake]] with [[Tiptop]] and [[Heater]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] with [[Hairsplitter]] and [[Singe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Quake.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Quake]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Decepticon "small Targetmasters" were sold carded with two Targetmaster partners each. Like the 1988 Autobots, these partners can form independent or combined weapons, and mount on their partner Transformers' vehicle forms or be wielded by them in robot mode. The three Transformers all turn into military vehicles. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{{anchor|seacons}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Seacons'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Nautilator]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skalor]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]]}}
|
|[[File:Nautilatorg1toy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nautilator]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Seacons are a [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1986 (Scramble City and 2010)|Scramble City]]-style combiner team, with [[Snaptrap (G1)|a large leader toy]] who forms the torso of a larger robot, with four smaller toys plugging in to form the limbs. The team was given an additional fifth small toy, however. All five small toys have a "weapon" mode—essentially their creature mode with a gun barrel attached—allowing any of them to be used by the combined robot as a Targetmaster weapon. Each small toy could also form a free-standing gun by attaching to a small stand included with the toy.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1990]])
{{anchor|actionmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Action Masters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[Razor-Sharp]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Jackpot (G1)|Jackpot]] with [[Sights (G1)|Sights]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Krok (G1)|Krok]] with [[Gatoraider]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[Push-Button]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Rad (G1)|Rad]] with [[Lionizer (G1)|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Rollout (G1)|Rollout]] with [[Glitch (G1)|Glitch]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[Top-Heavy]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[Catgut]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy PushButton.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Push-Button]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several [[Action Master]] figures include robotic partners who transform into weapons for the robot's use. Though not labeled as such at the time, 2003's ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye]]'' profile books retroactively dubbed these characters Targetmasters. Logically, the other partners not included in the series could be considered Targetmasters too, but have never officially been labeled as such.
|}

===Beast Wars===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Basics'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m1|[[Break]]}}
{{Bp-m1|[[Stampy (BWN)|Stampy]]}}
|
|[[File:BWN-toy Stampy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Stampy]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several of the ''Beast Wars Neo'' toys include third-mode weapon forms, which could be wielded by other toys.
|}

===Beast Machines===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2000]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m2|[[Dillo]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Mol]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Rav (BM)|Rav]]}}
|[[File:BeastMachinestoy-Mol.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Mol]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2003)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2003]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-p1|[[Chro]]<ref>Chro was called a Targetmaster in Cryotek's [http://botcon.com/archive/story/characters/cryotek.html BotCon online bio]. Chro is repurposed from Rav's blue deco.</ref>}}
|[[File:BM RavBlue-Chro-toy.jpg|upright=1.66|Chro the Raven, “Nevermore”.|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Collector's Edition===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Collector's Edition|Orion Pax]] (w/ [[Roller (G1)#Collector's Edition|Barrelroller]] and [[Dion (G1)#Collector's Edition|Dion]])}}
|[[File:Barrelroller g1.jpg|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2008)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys#Universe (2008)|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:UniverseCyclonusCorrected.JPG|upright=1.66|thumb|Cyclonus]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
A re-imagining of their original designs.
|}

===Gentei! Gentei!===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] with [[Rocketbot]]}}
|
|[[File:Henkei-toy Rocketbot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Rocketbot]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
[[Redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}

===Timelines (Shattered Glass)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-sa|[[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (SG)|Holepunch]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (SG)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] with [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-sd|[[Cyclonus (SG)|Cyclonus]] with [[Krunix (SG)|Krunix]]}}
|
|[[File:SGtoy-Cyclonus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cyclonus]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Scoop, Crosshairs, Holepunch, Pinpointer and Nightstick are [[repurposing|repurposed]] toys from previous toylines. Cyclonus and Krunix are [[redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}
{{toystub}}

===United===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#United|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#United|Nightstick]] and [[Sparks#Toys|Sparks]])}}
|[[File:Unitedtoy-Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Artfire]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Targetmaster Microns'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Fracas]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Haywire]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Spoilsport]] (2011)}}
|
[[File:United-toy Recoil.jpg|Recoil|thumb|upright=1.66]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The ''[[Power Core Combiners]]'' [[Mini-Con]] molds are released as Targetmaster Microns in the Japanese toyline ''[[Transformers United]]''.<ref>[http://www.takaratomy.co.jp/products/TF/event/micron_01.html ''Transformers United'' official site]</ref>
|}

===Transformers (2010)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] (with [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]])}}
|
|[[File:Masterpiecetoy-Offshoot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Offshoot]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The North American release of Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] comes with a "Limited Edition" Targetmaster partner named [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]].
|}

===Masterpiece===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#Masterpiece|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#Masterpiece|Nightstick]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#MP-40|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Masterpiece|Firebolt]])}}
|[[File:Masterpiece MP-37 Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Artfire]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Generations===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Thrilling 30''' (2013-2014)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)#Generations|Autobot Scoop]] (w/ [[Holepunch (G1)#Generations|Holepunch]] & [[Tracer (Targetmaster)#Generations|Caliburst]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Combiner Wars''' (2014-2016)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)#Combiner Wars|TFSS Spinister]] (w/ [[Hairsplitter#Combiner Wars|Shrute]] & [[Singe#Generations|Singe]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)#Generations|TFSS Needlenose]] (w/ [[Sunbeam (G1)#Combiner Wars|Sunbeam]] & [[Zigzag#Combiner Wars|Zputty]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''War for Cybertron Trilogy''' (2018-2020)
{{Bp-d1|[[Blowpipe (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Blowpipe]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Firebolt (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Firedrive]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Aimless (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skywarp (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron: Siege|Skywarp]] (w/ [[Fracas#War for Cybertron: Siege|Fracas]] & [[Hairsplitter#War for Cybertron: Siege|Shrute)]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Hotlink (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Hotlink]] (w/ [[Heartburn#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heartburn]] & [[Heatstroke#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heatstroke)]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Megatron (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Decepticon Megatron]] (w/ [[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Lionizer]] and [[Pinpointer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Pinpointer]])}}

|[[File:Scoop-deluxe-generations.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Scoop]]
</ul>
|}
{{main|Battle Master}}
{{groupstub}}
{{-}}

===Legends===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Legends|Firebolt]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Cher]] (w/ [[Recoil (G1)#Legends|Recoil]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Triggerhappy]] (w/ [[Blowpipe (G1)#Legends|Blowpipe]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Doublecross#Legends|Targetmaster Doublecross]] (w/ [[Haywire#Legends|Haywire]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Misfire]] (w/ [[Aimless (G1)#Legends|Aimless]])}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Slugslinger]] (w/ [[Caliburst (G1)#Legends|Caliburst]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Windblade (G1)#LG62|Targetmaster Windblade]] (w/ [[Pinpointer (G1)#Legends|Pointech]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Topspin (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Topspin]] (w/ [[Peacemaker#Legends|Peaceman]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Twin Twist#Legends|Targetmaster Twin Twist]] (w/ [[Spoilsport#Legends|Spoil]])}}
|[[File:TF-LG-45-Targetmaster-Rodimus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Hot Rodimus]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

==Notes==
===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Targetmaster''' (ターゲットマスター ''Tāgettomasutā'')
*''Hungarian:'' '''Célmester''' (Marvel Comics, "Targetmaster")

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising subgroups]]
[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising technology]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Generation 1 technology]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:The Headmasters subgroups]]
[[Category:The Headmasters technology]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass subgroups]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass technology]]
[[Category:Targetmasters| ]]
[[Category:Wings Universe subgroups]]
[[Category:Wings Universe technology]]

Targetmaster (technology)

2021-05-07T23:17:15Z

Warpshard: /* United */ Adding Artfire's name to his caption

{{disambig3.5|the 1987 gimmick|the 2019 gimmick|Battle Master|Targetmaster}}
[[File:Desertislandofspace-targetmaster-rollcall.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cambot! Gypsy! Tom Servo! Croooooow!]]
The '''Targetmasters''' are a subset of Transformers [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] to smaller partners, who transform into their weapons. The partner is often an organic life form that has been bio-engineered to be partly mechanical, or wears a suit of armor that transforms around them to become the weapon.

The Targetmasters benefit from being able to take two minds into battle. A Targetmaster possesses a living weapon that is capable of making its own tactical decisions and target priorities. The advantage is similar to that of having a dedicated gunner aboard an aircraft or tank.

The Targetmaster process is often seen to follow shortly after development of the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] process. The earliest known Targetmasters were among the [[Autobot]]s and [[Decepticon]]s involved in the war on [[Nebulos]], and were paired with a bio-engineered [[Nebulan]] humanoid which wore a transforming exosuit. Later Targetmasters included virtually any Transformer specifically partnered with another being that becomes their weapon, not limited to Nebulans or organics. The term has been applied to the [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]] team<ref>[[Hasbro]]'s 1988 toy [[catalog]]</ref> and several [[Action Master]] pairings.<ref>''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]''</ref>

Some Transformers, known as '''Double-Targetmasters''', are bonded with two smaller partners who can form individual weapons or combine with one another to form a 'double weapon', with the power of whichever weapon forms the 'barrel' boosted by the other.

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics====
{{noteukonly}}
The first Targetmasters were a group of six Autobots under the command of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Fortress Maximus]]. Having traveled to the planet Nebulos in search of peace, this group surrendered their weapons to the natives to prove their peaceful intentions. {{storylink|Ring of Hate!}}

''Nebulon minds were duplicated and installed into transformable Nebulon-sized robots, creating the Targetmasters.'' {{storylink|The Final Conflict}}

{{note|This depiction of Targetmasters as robots with duplicated Nebulon minds and not actual Nebulons is unique to this story.}}

[[File:BrothersinArmor-Targetmasters.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4|Mouseketeer Roll Call! Cubby! Bobby! Gregor! Jimmy! Darlene! Annette!]]
Some time later, [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] and his Decepticon Headmaster partner [[Scorponok (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Scorponok]] had discredited the Autobots, turned public opinion against them, and driven them into retreat. A group of six Nebulan dissidents undertook a great risk to join the Autobots, allowing themselves to be bio-engineered into replacement weapons for the six unarmed Autobots. The Targetmasters became known as [[Peacemaker]], [[Spoilsport]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], [[Sparks]], and [[Haywire]].

The Autobot Targetmasters' first trial by combat came at the [[Nursery (Nebulos)|Nursery]], a horticultural research facility that was under threat by Zarak's Decepticons. The newly minted Targetmasters engaged Scorponok and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] in a battle for the Nursery, but retreated as the facility was being destroyed by the battle, regardless of who was winning.

[[File:Decepticon targetmasters brothers in armor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
[[Vorath]] was soon able to duplicate the Autobots' experiment, creating a group of five Decepticon Targetmasters, though they weren't quite a match for the Autobot Headmasters. All of the Targetmasters left Nebulos soon after, as the Autobots retreated to spare Nebulos further warfare, and the Decepticons pursued. {{storylink|Brothers in Armor!!}}

[[File:Pointblank worlds apart.jpg|thumb|left]]
''At some point before leaving Nebulos, the Decepticons captured [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]], [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] and took them back to their [[Fortress of Despair]], apparently because they couldn't perfect the Targetmaster process. After a brief skirmish with the Autobot Headmasters, they retreated and let the Autobots follow them...directly into a trap! It was not creating Targetmasters that Scorponok was struggling with, but Headmasters. Although [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] was able to release the Autobot Targetmasters, and with their partners [[Peacemaker]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], and [[Spoilsport]] they pretty much won the battle, Scorponok was able to escape with a captive [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] to study.'' {{storylink|Worlds Apart!}}

{{note|Only the eleven "large" Targetmasters are given an origin in the ''Headmasters'' mini-series, and there isn't a lot of room in the plot for others to have been made off-panel. Nevertheless, the [[The Transformers Universe|Marvel bios]] for several of the "small" (1988) Targetmasters imply they became Targetmasters at this time.}}

After arriving on [[Earth]], the Autobot Targetmasters subsequently went on a mission to rescue the human [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]] from the Decepticons. They were repulsed from the Decepticons' [[Club Con|island base]] by a phalanx of hidden weapons. {{storylink|The Desert Island of Space!}}

[[File:Nightstickwreckinghavoc.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
''Having left Scorponok's forces, [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] attempted to force their former leader [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] to hand over his [[time-jump trigger device]], backed up by their Targetmaster partners. When the meeting was interrupted by the [[Wrecker]]s and battle ensued, Springer attempted to relieve Cyclonus of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] but was taken aback when the gun transformed and ran away from him.'' {{storylink|Wrecking Havoc}}

[[File:Nightstickcrushed.jpg|thumb|left|100px]]
''Nightstick would not prove to be nearly so fortunate when Cyclonus and Scourge attempted to forge an alliance with the current [[Decepticon leader]] [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]]. When negotiations went badly, Shockwave sent a [[Straxus (G1)|clone]] of [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] to kill Cyclonus and crush his gun.'' {{storylink|Dry Run!}}

''[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], along with [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] and [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], led an attack on an Autobot [[Ark shuttlecraft|shuttle]] to retrieve Scorponok's head from Highbrow, but once he had been reassembled they were spirited away to [[Limbo]] to make way for [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] from the future. Meanwhile, Scourge and [[Fracas]] were fighting alongside Galvatron and the Megatron clone against the Wreckers and [[Mayhem Attack Squad|Mayhems]]. Ultimately the present-day Targetmasters reappeared when Soundwave returned his troops to their own time, but Cyclonus and Scourge vanished into the [[time rift]].'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}

Additional Targetmasters may or may not have been created as the war went on. [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] and [[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] were both seen using weapons resembling their Targetmaster partners, but their individual circumstances do not seem to easily allow for them to have been on Nebulos to acquire Targetmaster partners. {{storylink|Yesterday's Heroes!}}

Recoil was among the weapons surrendered by the Autobots to the Decepticons as part of preparation for an alliance against [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]]. {{storylink|Surrender!}}
{{-}}

====Marvel UK future timelines====
[[File:Targetmaster-nomore.jpg|thumb|Hot Rod is no longer a Targetmaster as he mourns Firebolt's death.]]
In the year [[2007]], Autobot leader [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] reminisced about the war; on Nebulos where he first teamed up with his Targetmaster partner [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]] and later, on Earth, when Firebolt died under unspecified circumstances. {{storylink|Headhunt}}
{{-}}

====Earthforce====
{{earthforcefiction}}
[[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]] noted the double-paired Targetmasters known as Double-Targetmasters among his list of complaints about how complicated things had gotten in his absence. {{storylink|Starting Over!}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
The Targetmaster process was developed eons ago on Cybertron, as a process to forge a warrior and his weapon into a cohesive fighting team. The two are linked on a mental and physical level, allowing them to draw energy from each other and multitask with extreme efficiency. Targetmaster weapons cannot be wielded by another being without their consent unless they are somehow incapacitated in their weapon configuration. Severe injury or death of one partner can have a profound physical and emotional impact on the other.

The Targetmaster process was further expanded upon on the planet Nebulon. This would allow organic humanoids, not just mechanoids, to function as weapons when adorned with removable armor. The strength and endurance of these modified beings were greatly enhanced, though their appearance does not change. {{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye issue 8}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====American cartoon continuity====
[[File:Targetmasters.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Here's me, and here's my gun!]]
The creation of Targetmasters and [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], in this continuity, started with an initial idea of Brainstorm's that Autobots should use [[human]] partners while driving to help with steering and speed, this idea was confirmed when a race between [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]] and [[Blurr (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blurr]] was won not by Blurr's speed, but by [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]]'s help in driving Hot Rod. [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], however, was very sceptical about this idea.

After a large scale Decepticon attack, several Autobots, [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike]], and Daniel crash-landed on [[Nebulos]]; where the Autobots were taken captive by the inhabitants. After a Decepticon attack in which Daniel Witwicky was injured and put on life support, several Autobots were kidnapped by Decepticons.

The Nebulan warriors explained their situation with the [[Hive (G1)|Hive]] to the Autobots, and why they didn't trust them at first, and came to an agreement. Using Brainstorm's idea, they would use their and Daniel's minds with the Autobots' bodies to be powerful enough to defeat the Hive and save the others. Thus were born the Headmasters. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 1}}

Once the Headmasters got to know their partners, they set off to rescue the five captured captured Autobots. After some torture, Hot Rod, [[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]], Blurr, [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] were all saved by the Headmasters.

After witnessing the power of secondary operators, the Decepticons and other Autobots saw the logic in having some of their own.

The defeated Decepticons were captured by the hive and taken to their underground base of operations. [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]], the leader of the hive gave the Decepticons an opportunity to become powerful like the Autobot Headmasters at the literal cost of their heads. [[Cyclonus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Scourge]] agreed to let the Nebulans make Headmasters only out of the Decepticons there with beast modes, they however would only let the organic beings into their weapons. So [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]], [[Apeface]], [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]], [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]], and [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] were turned into Headmasters, [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]], [[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], Scourge, and Cyclonus had their weapons modified so that hive members could fit into and transform into them.

[[File:Cyclonus tm.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|*ptew ptew*]]
[[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], meanwhile had found a city and told the news to the other Autobots, damaging himself in the process. The Nebulans fixed him and believed the city he talked about to be the hive's old base from before they moved underground. The Decepticons, now with their Nebulan partners, attacked the Autobots again. Brainstorm was mad that the Decepticons stole his idea, the Head and Targetmasters and the Decepticons overwhelmed the Autobots and stole the key to the plasma energy chamber from them before the hive convinced the Decepticons to go back to Zarak to await orders.

[[File:Rebirth2 Blurr with gun.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.1|"Haywire you're grey and black, now stop looking like my old gun."
"Aww, but this model is so much nicer."]]
Brainstorm, to even the odds, showed his fellow Autobots scans of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]], showing how the Decepticons modified their guns and used the Nebulan tech to modify the non-Headmaster Autobot's guns and have Nebulan partners inside them. Hot Rod, Kup, Blurr, Crosshairs, Pointblank, and [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]]'s guns were modified and became the Autobot Targetmasters.

[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] then showed up on Nebulos and was introduced to the Autobot's Headmaster and Targetmaster partners. He was also informed that the Decepticons also had access to the same technology and the key to the plasma energy chamber. The Autobots went to the Decepticons to fight but they and their Nebulan partners had nearly completed their project. The Decepticons engaged the Autobots in combat but were surprised to see that the Autobots now had Targetmaster partners too.

The Autobots, however, were much more surprised to see that Zarak had created something big using the same Headmaster technology both factions had: [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 2}} {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 3}}
{{-}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
[[File:Tf headmaster 29 pointblank target on.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|FIRE IN THE HOLE!]]
In Japanese continuities, Targetmaster partners hail from the planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], but unlike the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] they are partnered with a regular Transformer as opposed to a [[Transtector]]. This fusion came about in a blast which binary-bonded a group of refugees from Master to the arms of the new Autobot recruits, as well as the Decepticon marauders, who were terrorizing the refugees in the first place. Unlike in the U.S. continuity and toys, when the Masters transform into gun mode, they take the place of their larger partner's entire hand instead of being held by it.

[[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]] and [[Artfire]] have Targetmasters, even though they were not present for the explosion. The Japanese Targetmasters speak in a series of electronic beeps (like the [[Mini-Con]]s) that only their bonded partner can understand, instead of speaking normally like their Headmaster brethren.
{{-}}

====''Wings Universe''====
{{wingsnote}}
[[Tornado]] was a Targetmaster, usually wielded by his [[Squadron X]] leader [[Macabre]] and later [[Ferak]]. {{storylink|Tornado - Decepticon Saboteur|Torando - Decepticon Saboteur, 2014/06/10}}

Following the [[Great Transformation]], [[Flareup (G1)|Flareup]] found herself stationed at [[New Polyhex]], where she became a star pupil while training under the ancient and enigmatic Target Masters before being recruited into the [[Cybertronian Knight]]s. {{storylink|Flareup (G1)#BotCon2014|BotCon 2014 Knight Flareup profile card}}

===''Shattered Glass''===
[[File:Crosshairs SG.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb]]
In this reverse universe, the Targetmasters take a much more active role in battle: they can take all motor control over the limb of whoever is holding them. The small partners are [[Micromaster]]s with three modes: robot, vehicle, and weapon.

[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] devised a plan to keep the Decepticons stranded on Cybertron while the Autobots fled to Earth. To execute this plan, he, [[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]], and [[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] took Targetmaster partners. [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]] was easily able to take down Megatron, but the Decepticon Micromasters were able to thwart the entire group of Targetmasters, allowing Megatron to free himself. {{storylink|Do Over}}

===''TransTech''===
After a bad experience with "colonists" from the [[Aurex]] Cluster, Nebulos made their atmosphere poisonous to Cybertronian life. In order to safely go undercover on this world, [[Vector Prime]] was binary bonded with [[Safeguard (TransTech)|Safeguard]], a friendly native. In addition to processing Vector Prime's fuel, he could also become a handheld weapon, making him a Target/Powermaster. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/11/01}}

===''Beast Wars: Uprising''===
Targetmaster technology was first created in the 21st century, by the Nebulans [[Teslor]] and [[Arcana]], as an enhancement to the already-existing Headmaster technology. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}} The process involved the subjects mingling their sparks, granting both a dramatic boost in power, such as being able to shoot down ships from orbit. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}} The technology gave the Autobots a temporary advantage in the war for Nebulos, until [[Fracas]] and [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] defected to the Decepticons, taking the Targetmaster process with them.

When the war spread to the planet [[Master (planet)|Rebirth]], the [[Malignus (G1)|Malignus]] scientist [[Nucleon (Generations)|Nucleon]] adapted the process to work with Cyberdroid physiology. Along with the Powermaster and Headmaster technology, it was used to create the [[Triple-Threat Master]] technology as well. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}}

Towards the end of the war, the mad Decepticon [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] found out the Targetmasters' ability to draw power from their wielder's Sparks could be amplified, and took the ability to its conclusion: being able to draw the life out of a Cybertronian just being near them. Terrified by this discovery, Autobots and Decepticons alike arranged for the Targetmasters, organic and Cybertronian alike, to be granted exile when the war ended. However, this was a ruse, and both sides arranged for the mass murder of all Targetmasters to prevent their powers being used ever again. The systematic eradication was later dubbed the "[[Targetmaster Extirpation]]". However, a few Targetmasters did survive, and went into hiding on a Cybertron now utterly hostile to their kind.

In the 24th century, one of the last Targetmasters, [[Twirl (G1)|Twirl]], was killed by [[Overrun]] when she considered outing herself. This sequence of events led to Overrun himself dying to prevent anyone else getting their hands on him. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1987]])
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[Haywire]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Hot Rod]] with [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] with [[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Pointblank]] with [[Peacemaker]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[Spoilsport]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Crosshairs.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Crosshairs]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Autobot Targetmasters were sold boxed with their Targetmaster partners, and consisted of three all-new molds alongside slightly retooled versions of Hot Rod, Kup, and Blurr from the previous year's assortment. The three older molds featured enlarged fist holes, allowing them to hold their new weapons. Both old and new molds transform into futuristic/Cybertronian ground vehicles. All six can mount their Targetmaster weapon on their roof or hood while in vehicle mode.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]] with [[Aimless (G1)|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[Fracas]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] with [[Blowpipe (G1)|Blowpipe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Misfire.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Misfire]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Similar to their Autobot counterparts, the Decepticon Targetmasters feature three new jet molds alongside retooled versions of Cyclonus and Scourge with enlarged fist holes. All five transform into futuristic/Cybertronian aircraft. Their weapons can be mounted on top of them in jet form. The three newer molds were also sold in 1988.
|}

{{anchor|JapaneseTargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Japanese-original Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Stepper ([[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]]) with [[Nebulon (Headmasters)|Nebulon]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire]] with [[Nightstick (Headmasters)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Stepper.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Stepper]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Artfire and Ricochet are [[redeco]]s and [[retool]]ings of the original toys for [[Inferno (G1)#Toys|Inferno]] and [[Jazz (G1)/toys#Generation 1|Jazz]], respectively. They each come with the Targetmaster partner molds that were used as Fracas and Nightstick in the US.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1988]])
{{anchor|doubletargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] with [[Flintlock]] and [[Silencer (G1)|Silencer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] with [[Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (G1)|Ricochet]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Targetmaster)|Tracer]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Landfill.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nebulan-on-Nebulan action!]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Often referred to as the "small Targetmasters" to distinguish them from the larger 1987 releases, these toys were sold carded. Each toy includes two smaller Targetmaster partners, each of which can form a gun or combine together as a larger gun. The two guns can also mount on the robot's vehicle form. The three Autobots share a construction vehicle theme. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] with [[Sunbeam (G1)|Sunbeam]] and [[Zigzag]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Quake (G1)|Quake]] with [[Tiptop]] and [[Heater]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] with [[Hairsplitter]] and [[Singe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Quake.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Quake]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Decepticon "small Targetmasters" were sold carded with two Targetmaster partners each. Like the 1988 Autobots, these partners can form independent or combined weapons, and mount on their partner Transformers' vehicle forms or be wielded by them in robot mode. The three Transformers all turn into military vehicles. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{{anchor|seacons}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Seacons'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Nautilator]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skalor]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]]}}
|
|[[File:Nautilatorg1toy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nautilator]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Seacons are a [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1986 (Scramble City and 2010)|Scramble City]]-style combiner team, with [[Snaptrap (G1)|a large leader toy]] who forms the torso of a larger robot, with four smaller toys plugging in to form the limbs. The team was given an additional fifth small toy, however. All five small toys have a "weapon" mode—essentially their creature mode with a gun barrel attached—allowing any of them to be used by the combined robot as a Targetmaster weapon. Each small toy could also form a free-standing gun by attaching to a small stand included with the toy.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1990]])
{{anchor|actionmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Action Masters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[Razor-Sharp]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Jackpot (G1)|Jackpot]] with [[Sights (G1)|Sights]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Krok (G1)|Krok]] with [[Gatoraider]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[Push-Button]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Rad (G1)|Rad]] with [[Lionizer (G1)|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Rollout (G1)|Rollout]] with [[Glitch (G1)|Glitch]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[Top-Heavy]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[Catgut]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy PushButton.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Push-Button]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several [[Action Master]] figures include robotic partners who transform into weapons for the robot's use. Though not labeled as such at the time, 2003's ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye]]'' profile books retroactively dubbed these characters Targetmasters. Logically, the other partners not included in the series could be considered Targetmasters too, but have never officially been labeled as such.
|}

===Beast Wars===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Basics'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m1|[[Break]]}}
{{Bp-m1|[[Stampy (BWN)|Stampy]]}}
|
|[[File:BWN-toy Stampy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Stampy]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several of the ''Beast Wars Neo'' toys include third-mode weapon forms, which could be wielded by other toys.
|}

===Beast Machines===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2000]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m2|[[Dillo]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Mol]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Rav (BM)|Rav]]}}
|[[File:BeastMachinestoy-Mol.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Mol]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2003)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2003]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-p1|[[Chro]]<ref>Chro was called a Targetmaster in Cryotek's [http://botcon.com/archive/story/characters/cryotek.html BotCon online bio]. Chro is repurposed from Rav's blue deco.</ref>}}
|[[File:BM RavBlue-Chro-toy.jpg|upright=1.66|Chro the Raven, “Nevermore”.|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Collector's Edition===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Collector's Edition|Orion Pax]] (w/ [[Roller (G1)#Collector's Edition|Barrelroller]] and [[Dion (G1)#Collector's Edition|Dion]])}}
|[[File:Barrelroller g1.jpg|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2008)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys#Universe (2008)|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:UniverseCyclonusCorrected.JPG|upright=1.66|thumb|Cyclonus]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
A re-imagining of their original designs.
|}

===Gentei! Gentei!===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] with [[Rocketbot]]}}
|
|[[File:Henkei-toy Rocketbot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Rocketbot]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
[[Redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}

===Timelines (Shattered Glass)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-sa|[[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (SG)|Holepunch]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (SG)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] with [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-sd|[[Cyclonus (SG)|Cyclonus]] with [[Krunix (SG)|Krunix]]}}
|
|[[File:SGtoy-Cyclonus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cyclonus]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Scoop, Crosshairs, Holepunch, Pinpointer and Nightstick are [[repurposing|repurposed]] toys from previous toylines. Cyclonus and Krunix are [[redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}
{{toystub}}

===United===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#United|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#United|Nightstick]] and [[Sparks#Toys|Sparks]])}}
|[[File:Unitedtoy-Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Artfire]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Targetmaster Microns'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Fracas]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Haywire]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Spoilsport]] (2011)}}
|
[[File:United-toy Recoil.jpg|Recoil|thumb|upright=1.66]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The ''[[Power Core Combiners]]'' [[Mini-Con]] molds are released as Targetmaster Microns in the Japanese toyline ''[[Transformers United]]''.<ref>[http://www.takaratomy.co.jp/products/TF/event/micron_01.html ''Transformers United'' official site]</ref>
|}

===Transformers (2010)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] (with [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]])}}
|
|[[File:Masterpiecetoy-Offshoot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The North American release of Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] comes with a "Limited Edition" Targetmaster partner named [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]].
|}

===Masterpiece===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#Masterpiece|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#Masterpiece|Nightstick]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#MP-40|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Masterpiece|Firebolt]])}}
|[[File:Masterpiece MP-37 Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Artfire]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Generations===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Thrilling 30''' (2013-2014)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)#Generations|Autobot Scoop]] (w/ [[Holepunch (G1)#Generations|Holepunch]] & [[Tracer (Targetmaster)#Generations|Caliburst]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Combiner Wars''' (2014-2016)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)#Combiner Wars|TFSS Spinister]] (w/ [[Hairsplitter#Combiner Wars|Shrute]] & [[Singe#Generations|Singe]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)#Generations|TFSS Needlenose]] (w/ [[Sunbeam (G1)#Combiner Wars|Sunbeam]] & [[Zigzag#Combiner Wars|Zputty]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''War for Cybertron Trilogy''' (2018-2020)
{{Bp-d1|[[Blowpipe (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Blowpipe]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Firebolt (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Firedrive]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Aimless (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skywarp (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron: Siege|Skywarp]] (w/ [[Fracas#War for Cybertron: Siege|Fracas]] & [[Hairsplitter#War for Cybertron: Siege|Shrute)]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Hotlink (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Hotlink]] (w/ [[Heartburn#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heartburn]] & [[Heatstroke#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heatstroke)]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Megatron (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Decepticon Megatron]] (w/ [[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Lionizer]] and [[Pinpointer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Pinpointer]])}}

|[[File:Scoop-deluxe-generations.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Scoop]]
</ul>
|}
{{main|Battle Master}}
{{groupstub}}
{{-}}

===Legends===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Legends|Firebolt]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Cher]] (w/ [[Recoil (G1)#Legends|Recoil]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Triggerhappy]] (w/ [[Blowpipe (G1)#Legends|Blowpipe]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Doublecross#Legends|Targetmaster Doublecross]] (w/ [[Haywire#Legends|Haywire]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Misfire]] (w/ [[Aimless (G1)#Legends|Aimless]])}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Slugslinger]] (w/ [[Caliburst (G1)#Legends|Caliburst]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Windblade (G1)#LG62|Targetmaster Windblade]] (w/ [[Pinpointer (G1)#Legends|Pointech]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Topspin (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Topspin]] (w/ [[Peacemaker#Legends|Peaceman]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Twin Twist#Legends|Targetmaster Twin Twist]] (w/ [[Spoilsport#Legends|Spoil]])}}
|[[File:TF-LG-45-Targetmaster-Rodimus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Hot Rodimus]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

==Notes==
===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Targetmaster''' (ターゲットマスター ''Tāgettomasutā'')
*''Hungarian:'' '''Célmester''' (Marvel Comics, "Targetmaster")

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising subgroups]]
[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising technology]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Generation 1 technology]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:The Headmasters subgroups]]
[[Category:The Headmasters technology]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass subgroups]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass technology]]
[[Category:Targetmasters| ]]
[[Category:Wings Universe subgroups]]
[[Category:Wings Universe technology]]

Targetmaster (technology)

2021-05-07T22:46:49Z

Warpshard: /* Gentei! Gentei! */ Adding Rocketbot's name to the caption of his image

{{disambig3.5|the 1987 gimmick|the 2019 gimmick|Battle Master|Targetmaster}}
[[File:Desertislandofspace-targetmaster-rollcall.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cambot! Gypsy! Tom Servo! Croooooow!]]
The '''Targetmasters''' are a subset of Transformers [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] to smaller partners, who transform into their weapons. The partner is often an organic life form that has been bio-engineered to be partly mechanical, or wears a suit of armor that transforms around them to become the weapon.

The Targetmasters benefit from being able to take two minds into battle. A Targetmaster possesses a living weapon that is capable of making its own tactical decisions and target priorities. The advantage is similar to that of having a dedicated gunner aboard an aircraft or tank.

The Targetmaster process is often seen to follow shortly after development of the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] process. The earliest known Targetmasters were among the [[Autobot]]s and [[Decepticon]]s involved in the war on [[Nebulos]], and were paired with a bio-engineered [[Nebulan]] humanoid which wore a transforming exosuit. Later Targetmasters included virtually any Transformer specifically partnered with another being that becomes their weapon, not limited to Nebulans or organics. The term has been applied to the [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]] team<ref>[[Hasbro]]'s 1988 toy [[catalog]]</ref> and several [[Action Master]] pairings.<ref>''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]''</ref>

Some Transformers, known as '''Double-Targetmasters''', are bonded with two smaller partners who can form individual weapons or combine with one another to form a 'double weapon', with the power of whichever weapon forms the 'barrel' boosted by the other.

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics====
{{noteukonly}}
The first Targetmasters were a group of six Autobots under the command of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Fortress Maximus]]. Having traveled to the planet Nebulos in search of peace, this group surrendered their weapons to the natives to prove their peaceful intentions. {{storylink|Ring of Hate!}}

''Nebulon minds were duplicated and installed into transformable Nebulon-sized robots, creating the Targetmasters.'' {{storylink|The Final Conflict}}

{{note|This depiction of Targetmasters as robots with duplicated Nebulon minds and not actual Nebulons is unique to this story.}}

[[File:BrothersinArmor-Targetmasters.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4|Mouseketeer Roll Call! Cubby! Bobby! Gregor! Jimmy! Darlene! Annette!]]
Some time later, [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] and his Decepticon Headmaster partner [[Scorponok (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Scorponok]] had discredited the Autobots, turned public opinion against them, and driven them into retreat. A group of six Nebulan dissidents undertook a great risk to join the Autobots, allowing themselves to be bio-engineered into replacement weapons for the six unarmed Autobots. The Targetmasters became known as [[Peacemaker]], [[Spoilsport]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], [[Sparks]], and [[Haywire]].

The Autobot Targetmasters' first trial by combat came at the [[Nursery (Nebulos)|Nursery]], a horticultural research facility that was under threat by Zarak's Decepticons. The newly minted Targetmasters engaged Scorponok and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] in a battle for the Nursery, but retreated as the facility was being destroyed by the battle, regardless of who was winning.

[[File:Decepticon targetmasters brothers in armor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
[[Vorath]] was soon able to duplicate the Autobots' experiment, creating a group of five Decepticon Targetmasters, though they weren't quite a match for the Autobot Headmasters. All of the Targetmasters left Nebulos soon after, as the Autobots retreated to spare Nebulos further warfare, and the Decepticons pursued. {{storylink|Brothers in Armor!!}}

[[File:Pointblank worlds apart.jpg|thumb|left]]
''At some point before leaving Nebulos, the Decepticons captured [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]], [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] and took them back to their [[Fortress of Despair]], apparently because they couldn't perfect the Targetmaster process. After a brief skirmish with the Autobot Headmasters, they retreated and let the Autobots follow them...directly into a trap! It was not creating Targetmasters that Scorponok was struggling with, but Headmasters. Although [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] was able to release the Autobot Targetmasters, and with their partners [[Peacemaker]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], and [[Spoilsport]] they pretty much won the battle, Scorponok was able to escape with a captive [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] to study.'' {{storylink|Worlds Apart!}}

{{note|Only the eleven "large" Targetmasters are given an origin in the ''Headmasters'' mini-series, and there isn't a lot of room in the plot for others to have been made off-panel. Nevertheless, the [[The Transformers Universe|Marvel bios]] for several of the "small" (1988) Targetmasters imply they became Targetmasters at this time.}}

After arriving on [[Earth]], the Autobot Targetmasters subsequently went on a mission to rescue the human [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]] from the Decepticons. They were repulsed from the Decepticons' [[Club Con|island base]] by a phalanx of hidden weapons. {{storylink|The Desert Island of Space!}}

[[File:Nightstickwreckinghavoc.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
''Having left Scorponok's forces, [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] attempted to force their former leader [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] to hand over his [[time-jump trigger device]], backed up by their Targetmaster partners. When the meeting was interrupted by the [[Wrecker]]s and battle ensued, Springer attempted to relieve Cyclonus of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] but was taken aback when the gun transformed and ran away from him.'' {{storylink|Wrecking Havoc}}

[[File:Nightstickcrushed.jpg|thumb|left|100px]]
''Nightstick would not prove to be nearly so fortunate when Cyclonus and Scourge attempted to forge an alliance with the current [[Decepticon leader]] [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]]. When negotiations went badly, Shockwave sent a [[Straxus (G1)|clone]] of [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] to kill Cyclonus and crush his gun.'' {{storylink|Dry Run!}}

''[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], along with [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] and [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], led an attack on an Autobot [[Ark shuttlecraft|shuttle]] to retrieve Scorponok's head from Highbrow, but once he had been reassembled they were spirited away to [[Limbo]] to make way for [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] from the future. Meanwhile, Scourge and [[Fracas]] were fighting alongside Galvatron and the Megatron clone against the Wreckers and [[Mayhem Attack Squad|Mayhems]]. Ultimately the present-day Targetmasters reappeared when Soundwave returned his troops to their own time, but Cyclonus and Scourge vanished into the [[time rift]].'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}

Additional Targetmasters may or may not have been created as the war went on. [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] and [[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] were both seen using weapons resembling their Targetmaster partners, but their individual circumstances do not seem to easily allow for them to have been on Nebulos to acquire Targetmaster partners. {{storylink|Yesterday's Heroes!}}

Recoil was among the weapons surrendered by the Autobots to the Decepticons as part of preparation for an alliance against [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]]. {{storylink|Surrender!}}
{{-}}

====Marvel UK future timelines====
[[File:Targetmaster-nomore.jpg|thumb|Hot Rod is no longer a Targetmaster as he mourns Firebolt's death.]]
In the year [[2007]], Autobot leader [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] reminisced about the war; on Nebulos where he first teamed up with his Targetmaster partner [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]] and later, on Earth, when Firebolt died under unspecified circumstances. {{storylink|Headhunt}}
{{-}}

====Earthforce====
{{earthforcefiction}}
[[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]] noted the double-paired Targetmasters known as Double-Targetmasters among his list of complaints about how complicated things had gotten in his absence. {{storylink|Starting Over!}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
The Targetmaster process was developed eons ago on Cybertron, as a process to forge a warrior and his weapon into a cohesive fighting team. The two are linked on a mental and physical level, allowing them to draw energy from each other and multitask with extreme efficiency. Targetmaster weapons cannot be wielded by another being without their consent unless they are somehow incapacitated in their weapon configuration. Severe injury or death of one partner can have a profound physical and emotional impact on the other.

The Targetmaster process was further expanded upon on the planet Nebulon. This would allow organic humanoids, not just mechanoids, to function as weapons when adorned with removable armor. The strength and endurance of these modified beings were greatly enhanced, though their appearance does not change. {{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye issue 8}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====American cartoon continuity====
[[File:Targetmasters.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Here's me, and here's my gun!]]
The creation of Targetmasters and [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], in this continuity, started with an initial idea of Brainstorm's that Autobots should use [[human]] partners while driving to help with steering and speed, this idea was confirmed when a race between [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]] and [[Blurr (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blurr]] was won not by Blurr's speed, but by [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]]'s help in driving Hot Rod. [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], however, was very sceptical about this idea.

After a large scale Decepticon attack, several Autobots, [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike]], and Daniel crash-landed on [[Nebulos]]; where the Autobots were taken captive by the inhabitants. After a Decepticon attack in which Daniel Witwicky was injured and put on life support, several Autobots were kidnapped by Decepticons.

The Nebulan warriors explained their situation with the [[Hive (G1)|Hive]] to the Autobots, and why they didn't trust them at first, and came to an agreement. Using Brainstorm's idea, they would use their and Daniel's minds with the Autobots' bodies to be powerful enough to defeat the Hive and save the others. Thus were born the Headmasters. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 1}}

Once the Headmasters got to know their partners, they set off to rescue the five captured captured Autobots. After some torture, Hot Rod, [[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]], Blurr, [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] were all saved by the Headmasters.

After witnessing the power of secondary operators, the Decepticons and other Autobots saw the logic in having some of their own.

The defeated Decepticons were captured by the hive and taken to their underground base of operations. [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]], the leader of the hive gave the Decepticons an opportunity to become powerful like the Autobot Headmasters at the literal cost of their heads. [[Cyclonus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Scourge]] agreed to let the Nebulans make Headmasters only out of the Decepticons there with beast modes, they however would only let the organic beings into their weapons. So [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]], [[Apeface]], [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]], [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]], and [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] were turned into Headmasters, [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]], [[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], Scourge, and Cyclonus had their weapons modified so that hive members could fit into and transform into them.

[[File:Cyclonus tm.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|*ptew ptew*]]
[[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], meanwhile had found a city and told the news to the other Autobots, damaging himself in the process. The Nebulans fixed him and believed the city he talked about to be the hive's old base from before they moved underground. The Decepticons, now with their Nebulan partners, attacked the Autobots again. Brainstorm was mad that the Decepticons stole his idea, the Head and Targetmasters and the Decepticons overwhelmed the Autobots and stole the key to the plasma energy chamber from them before the hive convinced the Decepticons to go back to Zarak to await orders.

[[File:Rebirth2 Blurr with gun.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.1|"Haywire you're grey and black, now stop looking like my old gun."
"Aww, but this model is so much nicer."]]
Brainstorm, to even the odds, showed his fellow Autobots scans of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]], showing how the Decepticons modified their guns and used the Nebulan tech to modify the non-Headmaster Autobot's guns and have Nebulan partners inside them. Hot Rod, Kup, Blurr, Crosshairs, Pointblank, and [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]]'s guns were modified and became the Autobot Targetmasters.

[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] then showed up on Nebulos and was introduced to the Autobot's Headmaster and Targetmaster partners. He was also informed that the Decepticons also had access to the same technology and the key to the plasma energy chamber. The Autobots went to the Decepticons to fight but they and their Nebulan partners had nearly completed their project. The Decepticons engaged the Autobots in combat but were surprised to see that the Autobots now had Targetmaster partners too.

The Autobots, however, were much more surprised to see that Zarak had created something big using the same Headmaster technology both factions had: [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 2}} {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 3}}
{{-}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
[[File:Tf headmaster 29 pointblank target on.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|FIRE IN THE HOLE!]]
In Japanese continuities, Targetmaster partners hail from the planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], but unlike the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] they are partnered with a regular Transformer as opposed to a [[Transtector]]. This fusion came about in a blast which binary-bonded a group of refugees from Master to the arms of the new Autobot recruits, as well as the Decepticon marauders, who were terrorizing the refugees in the first place. Unlike in the U.S. continuity and toys, when the Masters transform into gun mode, they take the place of their larger partner's entire hand instead of being held by it.

[[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]] and [[Artfire]] have Targetmasters, even though they were not present for the explosion. The Japanese Targetmasters speak in a series of electronic beeps (like the [[Mini-Con]]s) that only their bonded partner can understand, instead of speaking normally like their Headmaster brethren.
{{-}}

====''Wings Universe''====
{{wingsnote}}
[[Tornado]] was a Targetmaster, usually wielded by his [[Squadron X]] leader [[Macabre]] and later [[Ferak]]. {{storylink|Tornado - Decepticon Saboteur|Torando - Decepticon Saboteur, 2014/06/10}}

Following the [[Great Transformation]], [[Flareup (G1)|Flareup]] found herself stationed at [[New Polyhex]], where she became a star pupil while training under the ancient and enigmatic Target Masters before being recruited into the [[Cybertronian Knight]]s. {{storylink|Flareup (G1)#BotCon2014|BotCon 2014 Knight Flareup profile card}}

===''Shattered Glass''===
[[File:Crosshairs SG.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb]]
In this reverse universe, the Targetmasters take a much more active role in battle: they can take all motor control over the limb of whoever is holding them. The small partners are [[Micromaster]]s with three modes: robot, vehicle, and weapon.

[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] devised a plan to keep the Decepticons stranded on Cybertron while the Autobots fled to Earth. To execute this plan, he, [[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]], and [[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] took Targetmaster partners. [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]] was easily able to take down Megatron, but the Decepticon Micromasters were able to thwart the entire group of Targetmasters, allowing Megatron to free himself. {{storylink|Do Over}}

===''TransTech''===
After a bad experience with "colonists" from the [[Aurex]] Cluster, Nebulos made their atmosphere poisonous to Cybertronian life. In order to safely go undercover on this world, [[Vector Prime]] was binary bonded with [[Safeguard (TransTech)|Safeguard]], a friendly native. In addition to processing Vector Prime's fuel, he could also become a handheld weapon, making him a Target/Powermaster. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/11/01}}

===''Beast Wars: Uprising''===
Targetmaster technology was first created in the 21st century, by the Nebulans [[Teslor]] and [[Arcana]], as an enhancement to the already-existing Headmaster technology. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}} The process involved the subjects mingling their sparks, granting both a dramatic boost in power, such as being able to shoot down ships from orbit. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}} The technology gave the Autobots a temporary advantage in the war for Nebulos, until [[Fracas]] and [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] defected to the Decepticons, taking the Targetmaster process with them.

When the war spread to the planet [[Master (planet)|Rebirth]], the [[Malignus (G1)|Malignus]] scientist [[Nucleon (Generations)|Nucleon]] adapted the process to work with Cyberdroid physiology. Along with the Powermaster and Headmaster technology, it was used to create the [[Triple-Threat Master]] technology as well. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}}

Towards the end of the war, the mad Decepticon [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] found out the Targetmasters' ability to draw power from their wielder's Sparks could be amplified, and took the ability to its conclusion: being able to draw the life out of a Cybertronian just being near them. Terrified by this discovery, Autobots and Decepticons alike arranged for the Targetmasters, organic and Cybertronian alike, to be granted exile when the war ended. However, this was a ruse, and both sides arranged for the mass murder of all Targetmasters to prevent their powers being used ever again. The systematic eradication was later dubbed the "[[Targetmaster Extirpation]]". However, a few Targetmasters did survive, and went into hiding on a Cybertron now utterly hostile to their kind.

In the 24th century, one of the last Targetmasters, [[Twirl (G1)|Twirl]], was killed by [[Overrun]] when she considered outing herself. This sequence of events led to Overrun himself dying to prevent anyone else getting their hands on him. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1987]])
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[Haywire]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Hot Rod]] with [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] with [[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Pointblank]] with [[Peacemaker]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[Spoilsport]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Crosshairs.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Crosshairs]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Autobot Targetmasters were sold boxed with their Targetmaster partners, and consisted of three all-new molds alongside slightly retooled versions of Hot Rod, Kup, and Blurr from the previous year's assortment. The three older molds featured enlarged fist holes, allowing them to hold their new weapons. Both old and new molds transform into futuristic/Cybertronian ground vehicles. All six can mount their Targetmaster weapon on their roof or hood while in vehicle mode.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]] with [[Aimless (G1)|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[Fracas]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] with [[Blowpipe (G1)|Blowpipe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Misfire.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Misfire]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Similar to their Autobot counterparts, the Decepticon Targetmasters feature three new jet molds alongside retooled versions of Cyclonus and Scourge with enlarged fist holes. All five transform into futuristic/Cybertronian aircraft. Their weapons can be mounted on top of them in jet form. The three newer molds were also sold in 1988.
|}

{{anchor|JapaneseTargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Japanese-original Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Stepper ([[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]]) with [[Nebulon (Headmasters)|Nebulon]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire]] with [[Nightstick (Headmasters)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Stepper.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Stepper]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Artfire and Ricochet are [[redeco]]s and [[retool]]ings of the original toys for [[Inferno (G1)#Toys|Inferno]] and [[Jazz (G1)/toys#Generation 1|Jazz]], respectively. They each come with the Targetmaster partner molds that were used as Fracas and Nightstick in the US.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1988]])
{{anchor|doubletargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] with [[Flintlock]] and [[Silencer (G1)|Silencer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] with [[Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (G1)|Ricochet]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Targetmaster)|Tracer]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Landfill.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nebulan-on-Nebulan action!]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Often referred to as the "small Targetmasters" to distinguish them from the larger 1987 releases, these toys were sold carded. Each toy includes two smaller Targetmaster partners, each of which can form a gun or combine together as a larger gun. The two guns can also mount on the robot's vehicle form. The three Autobots share a construction vehicle theme. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] with [[Sunbeam (G1)|Sunbeam]] and [[Zigzag]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Quake (G1)|Quake]] with [[Tiptop]] and [[Heater]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] with [[Hairsplitter]] and [[Singe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Quake.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Quake]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Decepticon "small Targetmasters" were sold carded with two Targetmaster partners each. Like the 1988 Autobots, these partners can form independent or combined weapons, and mount on their partner Transformers' vehicle forms or be wielded by them in robot mode. The three Transformers all turn into military vehicles. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{{anchor|seacons}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Seacons'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Nautilator]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skalor]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]]}}
|
|[[File:Nautilatorg1toy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nautilator]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Seacons are a [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1986 (Scramble City and 2010)|Scramble City]]-style combiner team, with [[Snaptrap (G1)|a large leader toy]] who forms the torso of a larger robot, with four smaller toys plugging in to form the limbs. The team was given an additional fifth small toy, however. All five small toys have a "weapon" mode—essentially their creature mode with a gun barrel attached—allowing any of them to be used by the combined robot as a Targetmaster weapon. Each small toy could also form a free-standing gun by attaching to a small stand included with the toy.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1990]])
{{anchor|actionmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Action Masters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[Razor-Sharp]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Jackpot (G1)|Jackpot]] with [[Sights (G1)|Sights]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Krok (G1)|Krok]] with [[Gatoraider]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[Push-Button]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Rad (G1)|Rad]] with [[Lionizer (G1)|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Rollout (G1)|Rollout]] with [[Glitch (G1)|Glitch]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[Top-Heavy]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[Catgut]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy PushButton.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Push-Button]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several [[Action Master]] figures include robotic partners who transform into weapons for the robot's use. Though not labeled as such at the time, 2003's ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye]]'' profile books retroactively dubbed these characters Targetmasters. Logically, the other partners not included in the series could be considered Targetmasters too, but have never officially been labeled as such.
|}

===Beast Wars===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Basics'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m1|[[Break]]}}
{{Bp-m1|[[Stampy (BWN)|Stampy]]}}
|
|[[File:BWN-toy Stampy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Stampy]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several of the ''Beast Wars Neo'' toys include third-mode weapon forms, which could be wielded by other toys.
|}

===Beast Machines===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2000]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m2|[[Dillo]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Mol]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Rav (BM)|Rav]]}}
|[[File:BeastMachinestoy-Mol.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Mol]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2003)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2003]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-p1|[[Chro]]<ref>Chro was called a Targetmaster in Cryotek's [http://botcon.com/archive/story/characters/cryotek.html BotCon online bio]. Chro is repurposed from Rav's blue deco.</ref>}}
|[[File:BM RavBlue-Chro-toy.jpg|upright=1.66|Chro the Raven, “Nevermore”.|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Collector's Edition===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Collector's Edition|Orion Pax]] (w/ [[Roller (G1)#Collector's Edition|Barrelroller]] and [[Dion (G1)#Collector's Edition|Dion]])}}
|[[File:Barrelroller g1.jpg|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2008)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys#Universe (2008)|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:UniverseCyclonusCorrected.JPG|upright=1.66|thumb|Cyclonus]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
A re-imagining of their original designs.
|}

===Gentei! Gentei!===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] with [[Rocketbot]]}}
|
|[[File:Henkei-toy Rocketbot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Rocketbot]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
[[Redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}

===Timelines (Shattered Glass)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-sa|[[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (SG)|Holepunch]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (SG)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] with [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-sd|[[Cyclonus (SG)|Cyclonus]] with [[Krunix (SG)|Krunix]]}}
|
|[[File:SGtoy-Cyclonus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cyclonus]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Scoop, Crosshairs, Holepunch, Pinpointer and Nightstick are [[repurposing|repurposed]] toys from previous toylines. Cyclonus and Krunix are [[redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}
{{toystub}}

===United===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#United|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#United|Nightstick]] and [[Sparks#Toys|Sparks]])}}
|[[File:Unitedtoy-Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Targetmaster Microns'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Fracas]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Haywire]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Spoilsport]] (2011)}}
|
[[File:United-toy Recoil.jpg|Recoil|thumb|upright=1.66]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The ''[[Power Core Combiners]]'' [[Mini-Con]] molds are released as Targetmaster Microns in the Japanese toyline ''[[Transformers United]]''.<ref>[http://www.takaratomy.co.jp/products/TF/event/micron_01.html ''Transformers United'' official site]</ref>
|}

===Transformers (2010)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] (with [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]])}}
|
|[[File:Masterpiecetoy-Offshoot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The North American release of Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] comes with a "Limited Edition" Targetmaster partner named [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]].
|}

===Masterpiece===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#Masterpiece|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#Masterpiece|Nightstick]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#MP-40|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Masterpiece|Firebolt]])}}
|[[File:Masterpiece MP-37 Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Artfire]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Generations===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Thrilling 30''' (2013-2014)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)#Generations|Autobot Scoop]] (w/ [[Holepunch (G1)#Generations|Holepunch]] & [[Tracer (Targetmaster)#Generations|Caliburst]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Combiner Wars''' (2014-2016)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)#Combiner Wars|TFSS Spinister]] (w/ [[Hairsplitter#Combiner Wars|Shrute]] & [[Singe#Generations|Singe]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)#Generations|TFSS Needlenose]] (w/ [[Sunbeam (G1)#Combiner Wars|Sunbeam]] & [[Zigzag#Combiner Wars|Zputty]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''War for Cybertron Trilogy''' (2018-2020)
{{Bp-d1|[[Blowpipe (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Blowpipe]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Firebolt (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Firedrive]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Aimless (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skywarp (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron: Siege|Skywarp]] (w/ [[Fracas#War for Cybertron: Siege|Fracas]] & [[Hairsplitter#War for Cybertron: Siege|Shrute)]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Hotlink (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Hotlink]] (w/ [[Heartburn#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heartburn]] & [[Heatstroke#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heatstroke)]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Megatron (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Decepticon Megatron]] (w/ [[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Lionizer]] and [[Pinpointer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Pinpointer]])}}

|[[File:Scoop-deluxe-generations.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Scoop]]
</ul>
|}
{{main|Battle Master}}
{{groupstub}}
{{-}}

===Legends===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Legends|Firebolt]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Cher]] (w/ [[Recoil (G1)#Legends|Recoil]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Triggerhappy]] (w/ [[Blowpipe (G1)#Legends|Blowpipe]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Doublecross#Legends|Targetmaster Doublecross]] (w/ [[Haywire#Legends|Haywire]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Misfire]] (w/ [[Aimless (G1)#Legends|Aimless]])}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Slugslinger]] (w/ [[Caliburst (G1)#Legends|Caliburst]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Windblade (G1)#LG62|Targetmaster Windblade]] (w/ [[Pinpointer (G1)#Legends|Pointech]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Topspin (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Topspin]] (w/ [[Peacemaker#Legends|Peaceman]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Twin Twist#Legends|Targetmaster Twin Twist]] (w/ [[Spoilsport#Legends|Spoil]])}}
|[[File:TF-LG-45-Targetmaster-Rodimus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Hot Rodimus]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

==Notes==
===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Targetmaster''' (ターゲットマスター ''Tāgettomasutā'')
*''Hungarian:'' '''Célmester''' (Marvel Comics, "Targetmaster")

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising subgroups]]
[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising technology]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Generation 1 technology]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:The Headmasters subgroups]]
[[Category:The Headmasters technology]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass subgroups]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass technology]]
[[Category:Targetmasters| ]]
[[Category:Wings Universe subgroups]]
[[Category:Wings Universe technology]]

Targetmaster (technology)

2021-05-07T22:46:24Z

Warpshard: /* Universe (2008) */ Adding Cyclonus' name to his caption

{{disambig3.5|the 1987 gimmick|the 2019 gimmick|Battle Master|Targetmaster}}
[[File:Desertislandofspace-targetmaster-rollcall.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cambot! Gypsy! Tom Servo! Croooooow!]]
The '''Targetmasters''' are a subset of Transformers [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] to smaller partners, who transform into their weapons. The partner is often an organic life form that has been bio-engineered to be partly mechanical, or wears a suit of armor that transforms around them to become the weapon.

The Targetmasters benefit from being able to take two minds into battle. A Targetmaster possesses a living weapon that is capable of making its own tactical decisions and target priorities. The advantage is similar to that of having a dedicated gunner aboard an aircraft or tank.

The Targetmaster process is often seen to follow shortly after development of the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] process. The earliest known Targetmasters were among the [[Autobot]]s and [[Decepticon]]s involved in the war on [[Nebulos]], and were paired with a bio-engineered [[Nebulan]] humanoid which wore a transforming exosuit. Later Targetmasters included virtually any Transformer specifically partnered with another being that becomes their weapon, not limited to Nebulans or organics. The term has been applied to the [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]] team<ref>[[Hasbro]]'s 1988 toy [[catalog]]</ref> and several [[Action Master]] pairings.<ref>''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]''</ref>

Some Transformers, known as '''Double-Targetmasters''', are bonded with two smaller partners who can form individual weapons or combine with one another to form a 'double weapon', with the power of whichever weapon forms the 'barrel' boosted by the other.

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics====
{{noteukonly}}
The first Targetmasters were a group of six Autobots under the command of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Fortress Maximus]]. Having traveled to the planet Nebulos in search of peace, this group surrendered their weapons to the natives to prove their peaceful intentions. {{storylink|Ring of Hate!}}

''Nebulon minds were duplicated and installed into transformable Nebulon-sized robots, creating the Targetmasters.'' {{storylink|The Final Conflict}}

{{note|This depiction of Targetmasters as robots with duplicated Nebulon minds and not actual Nebulons is unique to this story.}}

[[File:BrothersinArmor-Targetmasters.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4|Mouseketeer Roll Call! Cubby! Bobby! Gregor! Jimmy! Darlene! Annette!]]
Some time later, [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] and his Decepticon Headmaster partner [[Scorponok (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Scorponok]] had discredited the Autobots, turned public opinion against them, and driven them into retreat. A group of six Nebulan dissidents undertook a great risk to join the Autobots, allowing themselves to be bio-engineered into replacement weapons for the six unarmed Autobots. The Targetmasters became known as [[Peacemaker]], [[Spoilsport]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], [[Sparks]], and [[Haywire]].

The Autobot Targetmasters' first trial by combat came at the [[Nursery (Nebulos)|Nursery]], a horticultural research facility that was under threat by Zarak's Decepticons. The newly minted Targetmasters engaged Scorponok and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] in a battle for the Nursery, but retreated as the facility was being destroyed by the battle, regardless of who was winning.

[[File:Decepticon targetmasters brothers in armor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
[[Vorath]] was soon able to duplicate the Autobots' experiment, creating a group of five Decepticon Targetmasters, though they weren't quite a match for the Autobot Headmasters. All of the Targetmasters left Nebulos soon after, as the Autobots retreated to spare Nebulos further warfare, and the Decepticons pursued. {{storylink|Brothers in Armor!!}}

[[File:Pointblank worlds apart.jpg|thumb|left]]
''At some point before leaving Nebulos, the Decepticons captured [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]], [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] and took them back to their [[Fortress of Despair]], apparently because they couldn't perfect the Targetmaster process. After a brief skirmish with the Autobot Headmasters, they retreated and let the Autobots follow them...directly into a trap! It was not creating Targetmasters that Scorponok was struggling with, but Headmasters. Although [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] was able to release the Autobot Targetmasters, and with their partners [[Peacemaker]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], and [[Spoilsport]] they pretty much won the battle, Scorponok was able to escape with a captive [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] to study.'' {{storylink|Worlds Apart!}}

{{note|Only the eleven "large" Targetmasters are given an origin in the ''Headmasters'' mini-series, and there isn't a lot of room in the plot for others to have been made off-panel. Nevertheless, the [[The Transformers Universe|Marvel bios]] for several of the "small" (1988) Targetmasters imply they became Targetmasters at this time.}}

After arriving on [[Earth]], the Autobot Targetmasters subsequently went on a mission to rescue the human [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]] from the Decepticons. They were repulsed from the Decepticons' [[Club Con|island base]] by a phalanx of hidden weapons. {{storylink|The Desert Island of Space!}}

[[File:Nightstickwreckinghavoc.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
''Having left Scorponok's forces, [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] attempted to force their former leader [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] to hand over his [[time-jump trigger device]], backed up by their Targetmaster partners. When the meeting was interrupted by the [[Wrecker]]s and battle ensued, Springer attempted to relieve Cyclonus of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] but was taken aback when the gun transformed and ran away from him.'' {{storylink|Wrecking Havoc}}

[[File:Nightstickcrushed.jpg|thumb|left|100px]]
''Nightstick would not prove to be nearly so fortunate when Cyclonus and Scourge attempted to forge an alliance with the current [[Decepticon leader]] [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]]. When negotiations went badly, Shockwave sent a [[Straxus (G1)|clone]] of [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] to kill Cyclonus and crush his gun.'' {{storylink|Dry Run!}}

''[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], along with [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] and [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], led an attack on an Autobot [[Ark shuttlecraft|shuttle]] to retrieve Scorponok's head from Highbrow, but once he had been reassembled they were spirited away to [[Limbo]] to make way for [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] from the future. Meanwhile, Scourge and [[Fracas]] were fighting alongside Galvatron and the Megatron clone against the Wreckers and [[Mayhem Attack Squad|Mayhems]]. Ultimately the present-day Targetmasters reappeared when Soundwave returned his troops to their own time, but Cyclonus and Scourge vanished into the [[time rift]].'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}

Additional Targetmasters may or may not have been created as the war went on. [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] and [[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] were both seen using weapons resembling their Targetmaster partners, but their individual circumstances do not seem to easily allow for them to have been on Nebulos to acquire Targetmaster partners. {{storylink|Yesterday's Heroes!}}

Recoil was among the weapons surrendered by the Autobots to the Decepticons as part of preparation for an alliance against [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]]. {{storylink|Surrender!}}
{{-}}

====Marvel UK future timelines====
[[File:Targetmaster-nomore.jpg|thumb|Hot Rod is no longer a Targetmaster as he mourns Firebolt's death.]]
In the year [[2007]], Autobot leader [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] reminisced about the war; on Nebulos where he first teamed up with his Targetmaster partner [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]] and later, on Earth, when Firebolt died under unspecified circumstances. {{storylink|Headhunt}}
{{-}}

====Earthforce====
{{earthforcefiction}}
[[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]] noted the double-paired Targetmasters known as Double-Targetmasters among his list of complaints about how complicated things had gotten in his absence. {{storylink|Starting Over!}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
The Targetmaster process was developed eons ago on Cybertron, as a process to forge a warrior and his weapon into a cohesive fighting team. The two are linked on a mental and physical level, allowing them to draw energy from each other and multitask with extreme efficiency. Targetmaster weapons cannot be wielded by another being without their consent unless they are somehow incapacitated in their weapon configuration. Severe injury or death of one partner can have a profound physical and emotional impact on the other.

The Targetmaster process was further expanded upon on the planet Nebulon. This would allow organic humanoids, not just mechanoids, to function as weapons when adorned with removable armor. The strength and endurance of these modified beings were greatly enhanced, though their appearance does not change. {{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye issue 8}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====American cartoon continuity====
[[File:Targetmasters.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Here's me, and here's my gun!]]
The creation of Targetmasters and [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], in this continuity, started with an initial idea of Brainstorm's that Autobots should use [[human]] partners while driving to help with steering and speed, this idea was confirmed when a race between [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]] and [[Blurr (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blurr]] was won not by Blurr's speed, but by [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]]'s help in driving Hot Rod. [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], however, was very sceptical about this idea.

After a large scale Decepticon attack, several Autobots, [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike]], and Daniel crash-landed on [[Nebulos]]; where the Autobots were taken captive by the inhabitants. After a Decepticon attack in which Daniel Witwicky was injured and put on life support, several Autobots were kidnapped by Decepticons.

The Nebulan warriors explained their situation with the [[Hive (G1)|Hive]] to the Autobots, and why they didn't trust them at first, and came to an agreement. Using Brainstorm's idea, they would use their and Daniel's minds with the Autobots' bodies to be powerful enough to defeat the Hive and save the others. Thus were born the Headmasters. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 1}}

Once the Headmasters got to know their partners, they set off to rescue the five captured captured Autobots. After some torture, Hot Rod, [[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]], Blurr, [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] were all saved by the Headmasters.

After witnessing the power of secondary operators, the Decepticons and other Autobots saw the logic in having some of their own.

The defeated Decepticons were captured by the hive and taken to their underground base of operations. [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]], the leader of the hive gave the Decepticons an opportunity to become powerful like the Autobot Headmasters at the literal cost of their heads. [[Cyclonus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Scourge]] agreed to let the Nebulans make Headmasters only out of the Decepticons there with beast modes, they however would only let the organic beings into their weapons. So [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]], [[Apeface]], [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]], [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]], and [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] were turned into Headmasters, [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]], [[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], Scourge, and Cyclonus had their weapons modified so that hive members could fit into and transform into them.

[[File:Cyclonus tm.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|*ptew ptew*]]
[[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], meanwhile had found a city and told the news to the other Autobots, damaging himself in the process. The Nebulans fixed him and believed the city he talked about to be the hive's old base from before they moved underground. The Decepticons, now with their Nebulan partners, attacked the Autobots again. Brainstorm was mad that the Decepticons stole his idea, the Head and Targetmasters and the Decepticons overwhelmed the Autobots and stole the key to the plasma energy chamber from them before the hive convinced the Decepticons to go back to Zarak to await orders.

[[File:Rebirth2 Blurr with gun.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.1|"Haywire you're grey and black, now stop looking like my old gun."
"Aww, but this model is so much nicer."]]
Brainstorm, to even the odds, showed his fellow Autobots scans of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]], showing how the Decepticons modified their guns and used the Nebulan tech to modify the non-Headmaster Autobot's guns and have Nebulan partners inside them. Hot Rod, Kup, Blurr, Crosshairs, Pointblank, and [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]]'s guns were modified and became the Autobot Targetmasters.

[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] then showed up on Nebulos and was introduced to the Autobot's Headmaster and Targetmaster partners. He was also informed that the Decepticons also had access to the same technology and the key to the plasma energy chamber. The Autobots went to the Decepticons to fight but they and their Nebulan partners had nearly completed their project. The Decepticons engaged the Autobots in combat but were surprised to see that the Autobots now had Targetmaster partners too.

The Autobots, however, were much more surprised to see that Zarak had created something big using the same Headmaster technology both factions had: [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 2}} {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 3}}
{{-}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
[[File:Tf headmaster 29 pointblank target on.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|FIRE IN THE HOLE!]]
In Japanese continuities, Targetmaster partners hail from the planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], but unlike the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] they are partnered with a regular Transformer as opposed to a [[Transtector]]. This fusion came about in a blast which binary-bonded a group of refugees from Master to the arms of the new Autobot recruits, as well as the Decepticon marauders, who were terrorizing the refugees in the first place. Unlike in the U.S. continuity and toys, when the Masters transform into gun mode, they take the place of their larger partner's entire hand instead of being held by it.

[[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]] and [[Artfire]] have Targetmasters, even though they were not present for the explosion. The Japanese Targetmasters speak in a series of electronic beeps (like the [[Mini-Con]]s) that only their bonded partner can understand, instead of speaking normally like their Headmaster brethren.
{{-}}

====''Wings Universe''====
{{wingsnote}}
[[Tornado]] was a Targetmaster, usually wielded by his [[Squadron X]] leader [[Macabre]] and later [[Ferak]]. {{storylink|Tornado - Decepticon Saboteur|Torando - Decepticon Saboteur, 2014/06/10}}

Following the [[Great Transformation]], [[Flareup (G1)|Flareup]] found herself stationed at [[New Polyhex]], where she became a star pupil while training under the ancient and enigmatic Target Masters before being recruited into the [[Cybertronian Knight]]s. {{storylink|Flareup (G1)#BotCon2014|BotCon 2014 Knight Flareup profile card}}

===''Shattered Glass''===
[[File:Crosshairs SG.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb]]
In this reverse universe, the Targetmasters take a much more active role in battle: they can take all motor control over the limb of whoever is holding them. The small partners are [[Micromaster]]s with three modes: robot, vehicle, and weapon.

[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] devised a plan to keep the Decepticons stranded on Cybertron while the Autobots fled to Earth. To execute this plan, he, [[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]], and [[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] took Targetmaster partners. [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]] was easily able to take down Megatron, but the Decepticon Micromasters were able to thwart the entire group of Targetmasters, allowing Megatron to free himself. {{storylink|Do Over}}

===''TransTech''===
After a bad experience with "colonists" from the [[Aurex]] Cluster, Nebulos made their atmosphere poisonous to Cybertronian life. In order to safely go undercover on this world, [[Vector Prime]] was binary bonded with [[Safeguard (TransTech)|Safeguard]], a friendly native. In addition to processing Vector Prime's fuel, he could also become a handheld weapon, making him a Target/Powermaster. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/11/01}}

===''Beast Wars: Uprising''===
Targetmaster technology was first created in the 21st century, by the Nebulans [[Teslor]] and [[Arcana]], as an enhancement to the already-existing Headmaster technology. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}} The process involved the subjects mingling their sparks, granting both a dramatic boost in power, such as being able to shoot down ships from orbit. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}} The technology gave the Autobots a temporary advantage in the war for Nebulos, until [[Fracas]] and [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] defected to the Decepticons, taking the Targetmaster process with them.

When the war spread to the planet [[Master (planet)|Rebirth]], the [[Malignus (G1)|Malignus]] scientist [[Nucleon (Generations)|Nucleon]] adapted the process to work with Cyberdroid physiology. Along with the Powermaster and Headmaster technology, it was used to create the [[Triple-Threat Master]] technology as well. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}}

Towards the end of the war, the mad Decepticon [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] found out the Targetmasters' ability to draw power from their wielder's Sparks could be amplified, and took the ability to its conclusion: being able to draw the life out of a Cybertronian just being near them. Terrified by this discovery, Autobots and Decepticons alike arranged for the Targetmasters, organic and Cybertronian alike, to be granted exile when the war ended. However, this was a ruse, and both sides arranged for the mass murder of all Targetmasters to prevent their powers being used ever again. The systematic eradication was later dubbed the "[[Targetmaster Extirpation]]". However, a few Targetmasters did survive, and went into hiding on a Cybertron now utterly hostile to their kind.

In the 24th century, one of the last Targetmasters, [[Twirl (G1)|Twirl]], was killed by [[Overrun]] when she considered outing herself. This sequence of events led to Overrun himself dying to prevent anyone else getting their hands on him. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1987]])
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[Haywire]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Hot Rod]] with [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] with [[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Pointblank]] with [[Peacemaker]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[Spoilsport]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Crosshairs.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Crosshairs]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Autobot Targetmasters were sold boxed with their Targetmaster partners, and consisted of three all-new molds alongside slightly retooled versions of Hot Rod, Kup, and Blurr from the previous year's assortment. The three older molds featured enlarged fist holes, allowing them to hold their new weapons. Both old and new molds transform into futuristic/Cybertronian ground vehicles. All six can mount their Targetmaster weapon on their roof or hood while in vehicle mode.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]] with [[Aimless (G1)|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[Fracas]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] with [[Blowpipe (G1)|Blowpipe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Misfire.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Misfire]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Similar to their Autobot counterparts, the Decepticon Targetmasters feature three new jet molds alongside retooled versions of Cyclonus and Scourge with enlarged fist holes. All five transform into futuristic/Cybertronian aircraft. Their weapons can be mounted on top of them in jet form. The three newer molds were also sold in 1988.
|}

{{anchor|JapaneseTargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Japanese-original Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Stepper ([[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]]) with [[Nebulon (Headmasters)|Nebulon]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire]] with [[Nightstick (Headmasters)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Stepper.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Stepper]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Artfire and Ricochet are [[redeco]]s and [[retool]]ings of the original toys for [[Inferno (G1)#Toys|Inferno]] and [[Jazz (G1)/toys#Generation 1|Jazz]], respectively. They each come with the Targetmaster partner molds that were used as Fracas and Nightstick in the US.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1988]])
{{anchor|doubletargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] with [[Flintlock]] and [[Silencer (G1)|Silencer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] with [[Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (G1)|Ricochet]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Targetmaster)|Tracer]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Landfill.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nebulan-on-Nebulan action!]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Often referred to as the "small Targetmasters" to distinguish them from the larger 1987 releases, these toys were sold carded. Each toy includes two smaller Targetmaster partners, each of which can form a gun or combine together as a larger gun. The two guns can also mount on the robot's vehicle form. The three Autobots share a construction vehicle theme. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] with [[Sunbeam (G1)|Sunbeam]] and [[Zigzag]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Quake (G1)|Quake]] with [[Tiptop]] and [[Heater]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] with [[Hairsplitter]] and [[Singe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Quake.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Quake]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Decepticon "small Targetmasters" were sold carded with two Targetmaster partners each. Like the 1988 Autobots, these partners can form independent or combined weapons, and mount on their partner Transformers' vehicle forms or be wielded by them in robot mode. The three Transformers all turn into military vehicles. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{{anchor|seacons}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Seacons'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Nautilator]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skalor]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]]}}
|
|[[File:Nautilatorg1toy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nautilator]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Seacons are a [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1986 (Scramble City and 2010)|Scramble City]]-style combiner team, with [[Snaptrap (G1)|a large leader toy]] who forms the torso of a larger robot, with four smaller toys plugging in to form the limbs. The team was given an additional fifth small toy, however. All five small toys have a "weapon" mode—essentially their creature mode with a gun barrel attached—allowing any of them to be used by the combined robot as a Targetmaster weapon. Each small toy could also form a free-standing gun by attaching to a small stand included with the toy.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1990]])
{{anchor|actionmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Action Masters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[Razor-Sharp]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Jackpot (G1)|Jackpot]] with [[Sights (G1)|Sights]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Krok (G1)|Krok]] with [[Gatoraider]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[Push-Button]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Rad (G1)|Rad]] with [[Lionizer (G1)|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Rollout (G1)|Rollout]] with [[Glitch (G1)|Glitch]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[Top-Heavy]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[Catgut]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy PushButton.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Push-Button]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several [[Action Master]] figures include robotic partners who transform into weapons for the robot's use. Though not labeled as such at the time, 2003's ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye]]'' profile books retroactively dubbed these characters Targetmasters. Logically, the other partners not included in the series could be considered Targetmasters too, but have never officially been labeled as such.
|}

===Beast Wars===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Basics'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m1|[[Break]]}}
{{Bp-m1|[[Stampy (BWN)|Stampy]]}}
|
|[[File:BWN-toy Stampy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Stampy]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several of the ''Beast Wars Neo'' toys include third-mode weapon forms, which could be wielded by other toys.
|}

===Beast Machines===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2000]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m2|[[Dillo]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Mol]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Rav (BM)|Rav]]}}
|[[File:BeastMachinestoy-Mol.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Mol]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2003)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2003]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-p1|[[Chro]]<ref>Chro was called a Targetmaster in Cryotek's [http://botcon.com/archive/story/characters/cryotek.html BotCon online bio]. Chro is repurposed from Rav's blue deco.</ref>}}
|[[File:BM RavBlue-Chro-toy.jpg|upright=1.66|Chro the Raven, “Nevermore”.|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Collector's Edition===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Collector's Edition|Orion Pax]] (w/ [[Roller (G1)#Collector's Edition|Barrelroller]] and [[Dion (G1)#Collector's Edition|Dion]])}}
|[[File:Barrelroller g1.jpg|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2008)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys#Universe (2008)|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:UniverseCyclonusCorrected.JPG|upright=1.66|thumb|Cyclonus]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
A re-imagining of their original designs.
|}

===Gentei! Gentei!===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] with [[Rocketbot]]}}
|
|[[File:Henkei-toy Rocketbot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
[[Redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}

===Timelines (Shattered Glass)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-sa|[[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (SG)|Holepunch]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (SG)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] with [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-sd|[[Cyclonus (SG)|Cyclonus]] with [[Krunix (SG)|Krunix]]}}
|
|[[File:SGtoy-Cyclonus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cyclonus]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Scoop, Crosshairs, Holepunch, Pinpointer and Nightstick are [[repurposing|repurposed]] toys from previous toylines. Cyclonus and Krunix are [[redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}
{{toystub}}

===United===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#United|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#United|Nightstick]] and [[Sparks#Toys|Sparks]])}}
|[[File:Unitedtoy-Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Targetmaster Microns'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Fracas]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Haywire]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Spoilsport]] (2011)}}
|
[[File:United-toy Recoil.jpg|Recoil|thumb|upright=1.66]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The ''[[Power Core Combiners]]'' [[Mini-Con]] molds are released as Targetmaster Microns in the Japanese toyline ''[[Transformers United]]''.<ref>[http://www.takaratomy.co.jp/products/TF/event/micron_01.html ''Transformers United'' official site]</ref>
|}

===Transformers (2010)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] (with [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]])}}
|
|[[File:Masterpiecetoy-Offshoot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The North American release of Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] comes with a "Limited Edition" Targetmaster partner named [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]].
|}

===Masterpiece===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#Masterpiece|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#Masterpiece|Nightstick]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#MP-40|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Masterpiece|Firebolt]])}}
|[[File:Masterpiece MP-37 Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Artfire]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Generations===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Thrilling 30''' (2013-2014)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)#Generations|Autobot Scoop]] (w/ [[Holepunch (G1)#Generations|Holepunch]] & [[Tracer (Targetmaster)#Generations|Caliburst]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Combiner Wars''' (2014-2016)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)#Combiner Wars|TFSS Spinister]] (w/ [[Hairsplitter#Combiner Wars|Shrute]] & [[Singe#Generations|Singe]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)#Generations|TFSS Needlenose]] (w/ [[Sunbeam (G1)#Combiner Wars|Sunbeam]] & [[Zigzag#Combiner Wars|Zputty]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''War for Cybertron Trilogy''' (2018-2020)
{{Bp-d1|[[Blowpipe (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Blowpipe]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Firebolt (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Firedrive]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Aimless (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skywarp (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron: Siege|Skywarp]] (w/ [[Fracas#War for Cybertron: Siege|Fracas]] & [[Hairsplitter#War for Cybertron: Siege|Shrute)]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Hotlink (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Hotlink]] (w/ [[Heartburn#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heartburn]] & [[Heatstroke#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heatstroke)]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Megatron (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Decepticon Megatron]] (w/ [[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Lionizer]] and [[Pinpointer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Pinpointer]])}}

|[[File:Scoop-deluxe-generations.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Scoop]]
</ul>
|}
{{main|Battle Master}}
{{groupstub}}
{{-}}

===Legends===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Legends|Firebolt]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Cher]] (w/ [[Recoil (G1)#Legends|Recoil]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Triggerhappy]] (w/ [[Blowpipe (G1)#Legends|Blowpipe]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Doublecross#Legends|Targetmaster Doublecross]] (w/ [[Haywire#Legends|Haywire]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Misfire]] (w/ [[Aimless (G1)#Legends|Aimless]])}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Slugslinger]] (w/ [[Caliburst (G1)#Legends|Caliburst]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Windblade (G1)#LG62|Targetmaster Windblade]] (w/ [[Pinpointer (G1)#Legends|Pointech]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Topspin (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Topspin]] (w/ [[Peacemaker#Legends|Peaceman]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Twin Twist#Legends|Targetmaster Twin Twist]] (w/ [[Spoilsport#Legends|Spoil]])}}
|[[File:TF-LG-45-Targetmaster-Rodimus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Hot Rodimus]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

==Notes==
===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Targetmaster''' (ターゲットマスター ''Tāgettomasutā'')
*''Hungarian:'' '''Célmester''' (Marvel Comics, "Targetmaster")

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising subgroups]]
[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising technology]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Generation 1 technology]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:The Headmasters subgroups]]
[[Category:The Headmasters technology]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass subgroups]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass technology]]
[[Category:Targetmasters| ]]
[[Category:Wings Universe subgroups]]
[[Category:Wings Universe technology]]

Targetmaster (technology)

2021-05-07T22:45:42Z

Warpshard: /* Timelines (Shattered Glass) */ Adding Cyclonus' name to his caption

{{disambig3.5|the 1987 gimmick|the 2019 gimmick|Battle Master|Targetmaster}}
[[File:Desertislandofspace-targetmaster-rollcall.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cambot! Gypsy! Tom Servo! Croooooow!]]
The '''Targetmasters''' are a subset of Transformers [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] to smaller partners, who transform into their weapons. The partner is often an organic life form that has been bio-engineered to be partly mechanical, or wears a suit of armor that transforms around them to become the weapon.

The Targetmasters benefit from being able to take two minds into battle. A Targetmaster possesses a living weapon that is capable of making its own tactical decisions and target priorities. The advantage is similar to that of having a dedicated gunner aboard an aircraft or tank.

The Targetmaster process is often seen to follow shortly after development of the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] process. The earliest known Targetmasters were among the [[Autobot]]s and [[Decepticon]]s involved in the war on [[Nebulos]], and were paired with a bio-engineered [[Nebulan]] humanoid which wore a transforming exosuit. Later Targetmasters included virtually any Transformer specifically partnered with another being that becomes their weapon, not limited to Nebulans or organics. The term has been applied to the [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]] team<ref>[[Hasbro]]'s 1988 toy [[catalog]]</ref> and several [[Action Master]] pairings.<ref>''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]''</ref>

Some Transformers, known as '''Double-Targetmasters''', are bonded with two smaller partners who can form individual weapons or combine with one another to form a 'double weapon', with the power of whichever weapon forms the 'barrel' boosted by the other.

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics====
{{noteukonly}}
The first Targetmasters were a group of six Autobots under the command of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Fortress Maximus]]. Having traveled to the planet Nebulos in search of peace, this group surrendered their weapons to the natives to prove their peaceful intentions. {{storylink|Ring of Hate!}}

''Nebulon minds were duplicated and installed into transformable Nebulon-sized robots, creating the Targetmasters.'' {{storylink|The Final Conflict}}

{{note|This depiction of Targetmasters as robots with duplicated Nebulon minds and not actual Nebulons is unique to this story.}}

[[File:BrothersinArmor-Targetmasters.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4|Mouseketeer Roll Call! Cubby! Bobby! Gregor! Jimmy! Darlene! Annette!]]
Some time later, [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] and his Decepticon Headmaster partner [[Scorponok (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Scorponok]] had discredited the Autobots, turned public opinion against them, and driven them into retreat. A group of six Nebulan dissidents undertook a great risk to join the Autobots, allowing themselves to be bio-engineered into replacement weapons for the six unarmed Autobots. The Targetmasters became known as [[Peacemaker]], [[Spoilsport]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], [[Sparks]], and [[Haywire]].

The Autobot Targetmasters' first trial by combat came at the [[Nursery (Nebulos)|Nursery]], a horticultural research facility that was under threat by Zarak's Decepticons. The newly minted Targetmasters engaged Scorponok and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] in a battle for the Nursery, but retreated as the facility was being destroyed by the battle, regardless of who was winning.

[[File:Decepticon targetmasters brothers in armor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
[[Vorath]] was soon able to duplicate the Autobots' experiment, creating a group of five Decepticon Targetmasters, though they weren't quite a match for the Autobot Headmasters. All of the Targetmasters left Nebulos soon after, as the Autobots retreated to spare Nebulos further warfare, and the Decepticons pursued. {{storylink|Brothers in Armor!!}}

[[File:Pointblank worlds apart.jpg|thumb|left]]
''At some point before leaving Nebulos, the Decepticons captured [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]], [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] and took them back to their [[Fortress of Despair]], apparently because they couldn't perfect the Targetmaster process. After a brief skirmish with the Autobot Headmasters, they retreated and let the Autobots follow them...directly into a trap! It was not creating Targetmasters that Scorponok was struggling with, but Headmasters. Although [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] was able to release the Autobot Targetmasters, and with their partners [[Peacemaker]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], and [[Spoilsport]] they pretty much won the battle, Scorponok was able to escape with a captive [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] to study.'' {{storylink|Worlds Apart!}}

{{note|Only the eleven "large" Targetmasters are given an origin in the ''Headmasters'' mini-series, and there isn't a lot of room in the plot for others to have been made off-panel. Nevertheless, the [[The Transformers Universe|Marvel bios]] for several of the "small" (1988) Targetmasters imply they became Targetmasters at this time.}}

After arriving on [[Earth]], the Autobot Targetmasters subsequently went on a mission to rescue the human [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]] from the Decepticons. They were repulsed from the Decepticons' [[Club Con|island base]] by a phalanx of hidden weapons. {{storylink|The Desert Island of Space!}}

[[File:Nightstickwreckinghavoc.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
''Having left Scorponok's forces, [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] attempted to force their former leader [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] to hand over his [[time-jump trigger device]], backed up by their Targetmaster partners. When the meeting was interrupted by the [[Wrecker]]s and battle ensued, Springer attempted to relieve Cyclonus of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] but was taken aback when the gun transformed and ran away from him.'' {{storylink|Wrecking Havoc}}

[[File:Nightstickcrushed.jpg|thumb|left|100px]]
''Nightstick would not prove to be nearly so fortunate when Cyclonus and Scourge attempted to forge an alliance with the current [[Decepticon leader]] [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]]. When negotiations went badly, Shockwave sent a [[Straxus (G1)|clone]] of [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] to kill Cyclonus and crush his gun.'' {{storylink|Dry Run!}}

''[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], along with [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] and [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], led an attack on an Autobot [[Ark shuttlecraft|shuttle]] to retrieve Scorponok's head from Highbrow, but once he had been reassembled they were spirited away to [[Limbo]] to make way for [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] from the future. Meanwhile, Scourge and [[Fracas]] were fighting alongside Galvatron and the Megatron clone against the Wreckers and [[Mayhem Attack Squad|Mayhems]]. Ultimately the present-day Targetmasters reappeared when Soundwave returned his troops to their own time, but Cyclonus and Scourge vanished into the [[time rift]].'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}

Additional Targetmasters may or may not have been created as the war went on. [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] and [[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] were both seen using weapons resembling their Targetmaster partners, but their individual circumstances do not seem to easily allow for them to have been on Nebulos to acquire Targetmaster partners. {{storylink|Yesterday's Heroes!}}

Recoil was among the weapons surrendered by the Autobots to the Decepticons as part of preparation for an alliance against [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]]. {{storylink|Surrender!}}
{{-}}

====Marvel UK future timelines====
[[File:Targetmaster-nomore.jpg|thumb|Hot Rod is no longer a Targetmaster as he mourns Firebolt's death.]]
In the year [[2007]], Autobot leader [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] reminisced about the war; on Nebulos where he first teamed up with his Targetmaster partner [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]] and later, on Earth, when Firebolt died under unspecified circumstances. {{storylink|Headhunt}}
{{-}}

====Earthforce====
{{earthforcefiction}}
[[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]] noted the double-paired Targetmasters known as Double-Targetmasters among his list of complaints about how complicated things had gotten in his absence. {{storylink|Starting Over!}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
The Targetmaster process was developed eons ago on Cybertron, as a process to forge a warrior and his weapon into a cohesive fighting team. The two are linked on a mental and physical level, allowing them to draw energy from each other and multitask with extreme efficiency. Targetmaster weapons cannot be wielded by another being without their consent unless they are somehow incapacitated in their weapon configuration. Severe injury or death of one partner can have a profound physical and emotional impact on the other.

The Targetmaster process was further expanded upon on the planet Nebulon. This would allow organic humanoids, not just mechanoids, to function as weapons when adorned with removable armor. The strength and endurance of these modified beings were greatly enhanced, though their appearance does not change. {{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye issue 8}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====American cartoon continuity====
[[File:Targetmasters.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Here's me, and here's my gun!]]
The creation of Targetmasters and [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], in this continuity, started with an initial idea of Brainstorm's that Autobots should use [[human]] partners while driving to help with steering and speed, this idea was confirmed when a race between [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]] and [[Blurr (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blurr]] was won not by Blurr's speed, but by [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]]'s help in driving Hot Rod. [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], however, was very sceptical about this idea.

After a large scale Decepticon attack, several Autobots, [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike]], and Daniel crash-landed on [[Nebulos]]; where the Autobots were taken captive by the inhabitants. After a Decepticon attack in which Daniel Witwicky was injured and put on life support, several Autobots were kidnapped by Decepticons.

The Nebulan warriors explained their situation with the [[Hive (G1)|Hive]] to the Autobots, and why they didn't trust them at first, and came to an agreement. Using Brainstorm's idea, they would use their and Daniel's minds with the Autobots' bodies to be powerful enough to defeat the Hive and save the others. Thus were born the Headmasters. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 1}}

Once the Headmasters got to know their partners, they set off to rescue the five captured captured Autobots. After some torture, Hot Rod, [[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]], Blurr, [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] were all saved by the Headmasters.

After witnessing the power of secondary operators, the Decepticons and other Autobots saw the logic in having some of their own.

The defeated Decepticons were captured by the hive and taken to their underground base of operations. [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]], the leader of the hive gave the Decepticons an opportunity to become powerful like the Autobot Headmasters at the literal cost of their heads. [[Cyclonus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Scourge]] agreed to let the Nebulans make Headmasters only out of the Decepticons there with beast modes, they however would only let the organic beings into their weapons. So [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]], [[Apeface]], [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]], [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]], and [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] were turned into Headmasters, [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]], [[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], Scourge, and Cyclonus had their weapons modified so that hive members could fit into and transform into them.

[[File:Cyclonus tm.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|*ptew ptew*]]
[[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], meanwhile had found a city and told the news to the other Autobots, damaging himself in the process. The Nebulans fixed him and believed the city he talked about to be the hive's old base from before they moved underground. The Decepticons, now with their Nebulan partners, attacked the Autobots again. Brainstorm was mad that the Decepticons stole his idea, the Head and Targetmasters and the Decepticons overwhelmed the Autobots and stole the key to the plasma energy chamber from them before the hive convinced the Decepticons to go back to Zarak to await orders.

[[File:Rebirth2 Blurr with gun.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.1|"Haywire you're grey and black, now stop looking like my old gun."
"Aww, but this model is so much nicer."]]
Brainstorm, to even the odds, showed his fellow Autobots scans of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]], showing how the Decepticons modified their guns and used the Nebulan tech to modify the non-Headmaster Autobot's guns and have Nebulan partners inside them. Hot Rod, Kup, Blurr, Crosshairs, Pointblank, and [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]]'s guns were modified and became the Autobot Targetmasters.

[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] then showed up on Nebulos and was introduced to the Autobot's Headmaster and Targetmaster partners. He was also informed that the Decepticons also had access to the same technology and the key to the plasma energy chamber. The Autobots went to the Decepticons to fight but they and their Nebulan partners had nearly completed their project. The Decepticons engaged the Autobots in combat but were surprised to see that the Autobots now had Targetmaster partners too.

The Autobots, however, were much more surprised to see that Zarak had created something big using the same Headmaster technology both factions had: [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 2}} {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 3}}
{{-}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
[[File:Tf headmaster 29 pointblank target on.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|FIRE IN THE HOLE!]]
In Japanese continuities, Targetmaster partners hail from the planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], but unlike the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] they are partnered with a regular Transformer as opposed to a [[Transtector]]. This fusion came about in a blast which binary-bonded a group of refugees from Master to the arms of the new Autobot recruits, as well as the Decepticon marauders, who were terrorizing the refugees in the first place. Unlike in the U.S. continuity and toys, when the Masters transform into gun mode, they take the place of their larger partner's entire hand instead of being held by it.

[[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]] and [[Artfire]] have Targetmasters, even though they were not present for the explosion. The Japanese Targetmasters speak in a series of electronic beeps (like the [[Mini-Con]]s) that only their bonded partner can understand, instead of speaking normally like their Headmaster brethren.
{{-}}

====''Wings Universe''====
{{wingsnote}}
[[Tornado]] was a Targetmaster, usually wielded by his [[Squadron X]] leader [[Macabre]] and later [[Ferak]]. {{storylink|Tornado - Decepticon Saboteur|Torando - Decepticon Saboteur, 2014/06/10}}

Following the [[Great Transformation]], [[Flareup (G1)|Flareup]] found herself stationed at [[New Polyhex]], where she became a star pupil while training under the ancient and enigmatic Target Masters before being recruited into the [[Cybertronian Knight]]s. {{storylink|Flareup (G1)#BotCon2014|BotCon 2014 Knight Flareup profile card}}

===''Shattered Glass''===
[[File:Crosshairs SG.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb]]
In this reverse universe, the Targetmasters take a much more active role in battle: they can take all motor control over the limb of whoever is holding them. The small partners are [[Micromaster]]s with three modes: robot, vehicle, and weapon.

[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] devised a plan to keep the Decepticons stranded on Cybertron while the Autobots fled to Earth. To execute this plan, he, [[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]], and [[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] took Targetmaster partners. [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]] was easily able to take down Megatron, but the Decepticon Micromasters were able to thwart the entire group of Targetmasters, allowing Megatron to free himself. {{storylink|Do Over}}

===''TransTech''===
After a bad experience with "colonists" from the [[Aurex]] Cluster, Nebulos made their atmosphere poisonous to Cybertronian life. In order to safely go undercover on this world, [[Vector Prime]] was binary bonded with [[Safeguard (TransTech)|Safeguard]], a friendly native. In addition to processing Vector Prime's fuel, he could also become a handheld weapon, making him a Target/Powermaster. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/11/01}}

===''Beast Wars: Uprising''===
Targetmaster technology was first created in the 21st century, by the Nebulans [[Teslor]] and [[Arcana]], as an enhancement to the already-existing Headmaster technology. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}} The process involved the subjects mingling their sparks, granting both a dramatic boost in power, such as being able to shoot down ships from orbit. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}} The technology gave the Autobots a temporary advantage in the war for Nebulos, until [[Fracas]] and [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] defected to the Decepticons, taking the Targetmaster process with them.

When the war spread to the planet [[Master (planet)|Rebirth]], the [[Malignus (G1)|Malignus]] scientist [[Nucleon (Generations)|Nucleon]] adapted the process to work with Cyberdroid physiology. Along with the Powermaster and Headmaster technology, it was used to create the [[Triple-Threat Master]] technology as well. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}}

Towards the end of the war, the mad Decepticon [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] found out the Targetmasters' ability to draw power from their wielder's Sparks could be amplified, and took the ability to its conclusion: being able to draw the life out of a Cybertronian just being near them. Terrified by this discovery, Autobots and Decepticons alike arranged for the Targetmasters, organic and Cybertronian alike, to be granted exile when the war ended. However, this was a ruse, and both sides arranged for the mass murder of all Targetmasters to prevent their powers being used ever again. The systematic eradication was later dubbed the "[[Targetmaster Extirpation]]". However, a few Targetmasters did survive, and went into hiding on a Cybertron now utterly hostile to their kind.

In the 24th century, one of the last Targetmasters, [[Twirl (G1)|Twirl]], was killed by [[Overrun]] when she considered outing herself. This sequence of events led to Overrun himself dying to prevent anyone else getting their hands on him. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1987]])
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[Haywire]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Hot Rod]] with [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] with [[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Pointblank]] with [[Peacemaker]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[Spoilsport]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Crosshairs.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Crosshairs]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Autobot Targetmasters were sold boxed with their Targetmaster partners, and consisted of three all-new molds alongside slightly retooled versions of Hot Rod, Kup, and Blurr from the previous year's assortment. The three older molds featured enlarged fist holes, allowing them to hold their new weapons. Both old and new molds transform into futuristic/Cybertronian ground vehicles. All six can mount their Targetmaster weapon on their roof or hood while in vehicle mode.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]] with [[Aimless (G1)|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[Fracas]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] with [[Blowpipe (G1)|Blowpipe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Misfire.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Misfire]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Similar to their Autobot counterparts, the Decepticon Targetmasters feature three new jet molds alongside retooled versions of Cyclonus and Scourge with enlarged fist holes. All five transform into futuristic/Cybertronian aircraft. Their weapons can be mounted on top of them in jet form. The three newer molds were also sold in 1988.
|}

{{anchor|JapaneseTargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Japanese-original Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Stepper ([[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]]) with [[Nebulon (Headmasters)|Nebulon]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire]] with [[Nightstick (Headmasters)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Stepper.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Stepper]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Artfire and Ricochet are [[redeco]]s and [[retool]]ings of the original toys for [[Inferno (G1)#Toys|Inferno]] and [[Jazz (G1)/toys#Generation 1|Jazz]], respectively. They each come with the Targetmaster partner molds that were used as Fracas and Nightstick in the US.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1988]])
{{anchor|doubletargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] with [[Flintlock]] and [[Silencer (G1)|Silencer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] with [[Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (G1)|Ricochet]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Targetmaster)|Tracer]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Landfill.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nebulan-on-Nebulan action!]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Often referred to as the "small Targetmasters" to distinguish them from the larger 1987 releases, these toys were sold carded. Each toy includes two smaller Targetmaster partners, each of which can form a gun or combine together as a larger gun. The two guns can also mount on the robot's vehicle form. The three Autobots share a construction vehicle theme. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] with [[Sunbeam (G1)|Sunbeam]] and [[Zigzag]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Quake (G1)|Quake]] with [[Tiptop]] and [[Heater]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] with [[Hairsplitter]] and [[Singe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Quake.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Quake]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Decepticon "small Targetmasters" were sold carded with two Targetmaster partners each. Like the 1988 Autobots, these partners can form independent or combined weapons, and mount on their partner Transformers' vehicle forms or be wielded by them in robot mode. The three Transformers all turn into military vehicles. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{{anchor|seacons}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Seacons'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Nautilator]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skalor]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]]}}
|
|[[File:Nautilatorg1toy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nautilator]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Seacons are a [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1986 (Scramble City and 2010)|Scramble City]]-style combiner team, with [[Snaptrap (G1)|a large leader toy]] who forms the torso of a larger robot, with four smaller toys plugging in to form the limbs. The team was given an additional fifth small toy, however. All five small toys have a "weapon" mode—essentially their creature mode with a gun barrel attached—allowing any of them to be used by the combined robot as a Targetmaster weapon. Each small toy could also form a free-standing gun by attaching to a small stand included with the toy.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1990]])
{{anchor|actionmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Action Masters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[Razor-Sharp]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Jackpot (G1)|Jackpot]] with [[Sights (G1)|Sights]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Krok (G1)|Krok]] with [[Gatoraider]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[Push-Button]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Rad (G1)|Rad]] with [[Lionizer (G1)|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Rollout (G1)|Rollout]] with [[Glitch (G1)|Glitch]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[Top-Heavy]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[Catgut]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy PushButton.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Push-Button]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several [[Action Master]] figures include robotic partners who transform into weapons for the robot's use. Though not labeled as such at the time, 2003's ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye]]'' profile books retroactively dubbed these characters Targetmasters. Logically, the other partners not included in the series could be considered Targetmasters too, but have never officially been labeled as such.
|}

===Beast Wars===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Basics'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m1|[[Break]]}}
{{Bp-m1|[[Stampy (BWN)|Stampy]]}}
|
|[[File:BWN-toy Stampy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Stampy]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several of the ''Beast Wars Neo'' toys include third-mode weapon forms, which could be wielded by other toys.
|}

===Beast Machines===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2000]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m2|[[Dillo]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Mol]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Rav (BM)|Rav]]}}
|[[File:BeastMachinestoy-Mol.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Mol]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2003)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2003]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-p1|[[Chro]]<ref>Chro was called a Targetmaster in Cryotek's [http://botcon.com/archive/story/characters/cryotek.html BotCon online bio]. Chro is repurposed from Rav's blue deco.</ref>}}
|[[File:BM RavBlue-Chro-toy.jpg|upright=1.66|Chro the Raven, “Nevermore”.|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Collector's Edition===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Collector's Edition|Orion Pax]] (w/ [[Roller (G1)#Collector's Edition|Barrelroller]] and [[Dion (G1)#Collector's Edition|Dion]])}}
|[[File:Barrelroller g1.jpg|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2008)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys#Universe (2008)|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:UniverseCyclonusCorrected.JPG|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
A re-imagining of their original designs.
|}

===Gentei! Gentei!===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] with [[Rocketbot]]}}
|
|[[File:Henkei-toy Rocketbot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
[[Redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}

===Timelines (Shattered Glass)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-sa|[[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (SG)|Holepunch]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (SG)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] with [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-sd|[[Cyclonus (SG)|Cyclonus]] with [[Krunix (SG)|Krunix]]}}
|
|[[File:SGtoy-Cyclonus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cyclonus]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Scoop, Crosshairs, Holepunch, Pinpointer and Nightstick are [[repurposing|repurposed]] toys from previous toylines. Cyclonus and Krunix are [[redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}
{{toystub}}

===United===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#United|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#United|Nightstick]] and [[Sparks#Toys|Sparks]])}}
|[[File:Unitedtoy-Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Targetmaster Microns'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Fracas]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Haywire]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Spoilsport]] (2011)}}
|
[[File:United-toy Recoil.jpg|Recoil|thumb|upright=1.66]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The ''[[Power Core Combiners]]'' [[Mini-Con]] molds are released as Targetmaster Microns in the Japanese toyline ''[[Transformers United]]''.<ref>[http://www.takaratomy.co.jp/products/TF/event/micron_01.html ''Transformers United'' official site]</ref>
|}

===Transformers (2010)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] (with [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]])}}
|
|[[File:Masterpiecetoy-Offshoot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The North American release of Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] comes with a "Limited Edition" Targetmaster partner named [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]].
|}

===Masterpiece===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#Masterpiece|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#Masterpiece|Nightstick]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#MP-40|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Masterpiece|Firebolt]])}}
|[[File:Masterpiece MP-37 Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Artfire]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Generations===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Thrilling 30''' (2013-2014)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)#Generations|Autobot Scoop]] (w/ [[Holepunch (G1)#Generations|Holepunch]] & [[Tracer (Targetmaster)#Generations|Caliburst]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Combiner Wars''' (2014-2016)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)#Combiner Wars|TFSS Spinister]] (w/ [[Hairsplitter#Combiner Wars|Shrute]] & [[Singe#Generations|Singe]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)#Generations|TFSS Needlenose]] (w/ [[Sunbeam (G1)#Combiner Wars|Sunbeam]] & [[Zigzag#Combiner Wars|Zputty]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''War for Cybertron Trilogy''' (2018-2020)
{{Bp-d1|[[Blowpipe (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Blowpipe]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Firebolt (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Firedrive]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Aimless (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skywarp (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron: Siege|Skywarp]] (w/ [[Fracas#War for Cybertron: Siege|Fracas]] & [[Hairsplitter#War for Cybertron: Siege|Shrute)]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Hotlink (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Hotlink]] (w/ [[Heartburn#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heartburn]] & [[Heatstroke#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heatstroke)]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Megatron (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Decepticon Megatron]] (w/ [[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Lionizer]] and [[Pinpointer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Pinpointer]])}}

|[[File:Scoop-deluxe-generations.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Scoop]]
</ul>
|}
{{main|Battle Master}}
{{groupstub}}
{{-}}

===Legends===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Legends|Firebolt]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Cher]] (w/ [[Recoil (G1)#Legends|Recoil]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Triggerhappy]] (w/ [[Blowpipe (G1)#Legends|Blowpipe]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Doublecross#Legends|Targetmaster Doublecross]] (w/ [[Haywire#Legends|Haywire]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Misfire]] (w/ [[Aimless (G1)#Legends|Aimless]])}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Slugslinger]] (w/ [[Caliburst (G1)#Legends|Caliburst]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Windblade (G1)#LG62|Targetmaster Windblade]] (w/ [[Pinpointer (G1)#Legends|Pointech]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Topspin (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Topspin]] (w/ [[Peacemaker#Legends|Peaceman]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Twin Twist#Legends|Targetmaster Twin Twist]] (w/ [[Spoilsport#Legends|Spoil]])}}
|[[File:TF-LG-45-Targetmaster-Rodimus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Hot Rodimus]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

==Notes==
===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Targetmaster''' (ターゲットマスター ''Tāgettomasutā'')
*''Hungarian:'' '''Célmester''' (Marvel Comics, "Targetmaster")

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising subgroups]]
[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising technology]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Generation 1 technology]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:The Headmasters subgroups]]
[[Category:The Headmasters technology]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass subgroups]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass technology]]
[[Category:Targetmasters| ]]
[[Category:Wings Universe subgroups]]
[[Category:Wings Universe technology]]

Targetmaster (technology)

2021-05-07T22:45:14Z

Warpshard: /* Masterpiece */ Adding Artfire's name to his caption.

{{disambig3.5|the 1987 gimmick|the 2019 gimmick|Battle Master|Targetmaster}}
[[File:Desertislandofspace-targetmaster-rollcall.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cambot! Gypsy! Tom Servo! Croooooow!]]
The '''Targetmasters''' are a subset of Transformers [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] to smaller partners, who transform into their weapons. The partner is often an organic life form that has been bio-engineered to be partly mechanical, or wears a suit of armor that transforms around them to become the weapon.

The Targetmasters benefit from being able to take two minds into battle. A Targetmaster possesses a living weapon that is capable of making its own tactical decisions and target priorities. The advantage is similar to that of having a dedicated gunner aboard an aircraft or tank.

The Targetmaster process is often seen to follow shortly after development of the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] process. The earliest known Targetmasters were among the [[Autobot]]s and [[Decepticon]]s involved in the war on [[Nebulos]], and were paired with a bio-engineered [[Nebulan]] humanoid which wore a transforming exosuit. Later Targetmasters included virtually any Transformer specifically partnered with another being that becomes their weapon, not limited to Nebulans or organics. The term has been applied to the [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]] team<ref>[[Hasbro]]'s 1988 toy [[catalog]]</ref> and several [[Action Master]] pairings.<ref>''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]''</ref>

Some Transformers, known as '''Double-Targetmasters''', are bonded with two smaller partners who can form individual weapons or combine with one another to form a 'double weapon', with the power of whichever weapon forms the 'barrel' boosted by the other.

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics====
{{noteukonly}}
The first Targetmasters were a group of six Autobots under the command of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Fortress Maximus]]. Having traveled to the planet Nebulos in search of peace, this group surrendered their weapons to the natives to prove their peaceful intentions. {{storylink|Ring of Hate!}}

''Nebulon minds were duplicated and installed into transformable Nebulon-sized robots, creating the Targetmasters.'' {{storylink|The Final Conflict}}

{{note|This depiction of Targetmasters as robots with duplicated Nebulon minds and not actual Nebulons is unique to this story.}}

[[File:BrothersinArmor-Targetmasters.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4|Mouseketeer Roll Call! Cubby! Bobby! Gregor! Jimmy! Darlene! Annette!]]
Some time later, [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] and his Decepticon Headmaster partner [[Scorponok (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Scorponok]] had discredited the Autobots, turned public opinion against them, and driven them into retreat. A group of six Nebulan dissidents undertook a great risk to join the Autobots, allowing themselves to be bio-engineered into replacement weapons for the six unarmed Autobots. The Targetmasters became known as [[Peacemaker]], [[Spoilsport]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], [[Sparks]], and [[Haywire]].

The Autobot Targetmasters' first trial by combat came at the [[Nursery (Nebulos)|Nursery]], a horticultural research facility that was under threat by Zarak's Decepticons. The newly minted Targetmasters engaged Scorponok and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] in a battle for the Nursery, but retreated as the facility was being destroyed by the battle, regardless of who was winning.

[[File:Decepticon targetmasters brothers in armor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
[[Vorath]] was soon able to duplicate the Autobots' experiment, creating a group of five Decepticon Targetmasters, though they weren't quite a match for the Autobot Headmasters. All of the Targetmasters left Nebulos soon after, as the Autobots retreated to spare Nebulos further warfare, and the Decepticons pursued. {{storylink|Brothers in Armor!!}}

[[File:Pointblank worlds apart.jpg|thumb|left]]
''At some point before leaving Nebulos, the Decepticons captured [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]], [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] and took them back to their [[Fortress of Despair]], apparently because they couldn't perfect the Targetmaster process. After a brief skirmish with the Autobot Headmasters, they retreated and let the Autobots follow them...directly into a trap! It was not creating Targetmasters that Scorponok was struggling with, but Headmasters. Although [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] was able to release the Autobot Targetmasters, and with their partners [[Peacemaker]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], and [[Spoilsport]] they pretty much won the battle, Scorponok was able to escape with a captive [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] to study.'' {{storylink|Worlds Apart!}}

{{note|Only the eleven "large" Targetmasters are given an origin in the ''Headmasters'' mini-series, and there isn't a lot of room in the plot for others to have been made off-panel. Nevertheless, the [[The Transformers Universe|Marvel bios]] for several of the "small" (1988) Targetmasters imply they became Targetmasters at this time.}}

After arriving on [[Earth]], the Autobot Targetmasters subsequently went on a mission to rescue the human [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]] from the Decepticons. They were repulsed from the Decepticons' [[Club Con|island base]] by a phalanx of hidden weapons. {{storylink|The Desert Island of Space!}}

[[File:Nightstickwreckinghavoc.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
''Having left Scorponok's forces, [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] attempted to force their former leader [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] to hand over his [[time-jump trigger device]], backed up by their Targetmaster partners. When the meeting was interrupted by the [[Wrecker]]s and battle ensued, Springer attempted to relieve Cyclonus of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] but was taken aback when the gun transformed and ran away from him.'' {{storylink|Wrecking Havoc}}

[[File:Nightstickcrushed.jpg|thumb|left|100px]]
''Nightstick would not prove to be nearly so fortunate when Cyclonus and Scourge attempted to forge an alliance with the current [[Decepticon leader]] [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]]. When negotiations went badly, Shockwave sent a [[Straxus (G1)|clone]] of [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] to kill Cyclonus and crush his gun.'' {{storylink|Dry Run!}}

''[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], along with [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] and [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], led an attack on an Autobot [[Ark shuttlecraft|shuttle]] to retrieve Scorponok's head from Highbrow, but once he had been reassembled they were spirited away to [[Limbo]] to make way for [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] from the future. Meanwhile, Scourge and [[Fracas]] were fighting alongside Galvatron and the Megatron clone against the Wreckers and [[Mayhem Attack Squad|Mayhems]]. Ultimately the present-day Targetmasters reappeared when Soundwave returned his troops to their own time, but Cyclonus and Scourge vanished into the [[time rift]].'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}

Additional Targetmasters may or may not have been created as the war went on. [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] and [[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] were both seen using weapons resembling their Targetmaster partners, but their individual circumstances do not seem to easily allow for them to have been on Nebulos to acquire Targetmaster partners. {{storylink|Yesterday's Heroes!}}

Recoil was among the weapons surrendered by the Autobots to the Decepticons as part of preparation for an alliance against [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]]. {{storylink|Surrender!}}
{{-}}

====Marvel UK future timelines====
[[File:Targetmaster-nomore.jpg|thumb|Hot Rod is no longer a Targetmaster as he mourns Firebolt's death.]]
In the year [[2007]], Autobot leader [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] reminisced about the war; on Nebulos where he first teamed up with his Targetmaster partner [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]] and later, on Earth, when Firebolt died under unspecified circumstances. {{storylink|Headhunt}}
{{-}}

====Earthforce====
{{earthforcefiction}}
[[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]] noted the double-paired Targetmasters known as Double-Targetmasters among his list of complaints about how complicated things had gotten in his absence. {{storylink|Starting Over!}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
The Targetmaster process was developed eons ago on Cybertron, as a process to forge a warrior and his weapon into a cohesive fighting team. The two are linked on a mental and physical level, allowing them to draw energy from each other and multitask with extreme efficiency. Targetmaster weapons cannot be wielded by another being without their consent unless they are somehow incapacitated in their weapon configuration. Severe injury or death of one partner can have a profound physical and emotional impact on the other.

The Targetmaster process was further expanded upon on the planet Nebulon. This would allow organic humanoids, not just mechanoids, to function as weapons when adorned with removable armor. The strength and endurance of these modified beings were greatly enhanced, though their appearance does not change. {{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye issue 8}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====American cartoon continuity====
[[File:Targetmasters.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Here's me, and here's my gun!]]
The creation of Targetmasters and [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], in this continuity, started with an initial idea of Brainstorm's that Autobots should use [[human]] partners while driving to help with steering and speed, this idea was confirmed when a race between [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]] and [[Blurr (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blurr]] was won not by Blurr's speed, but by [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]]'s help in driving Hot Rod. [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], however, was very sceptical about this idea.

After a large scale Decepticon attack, several Autobots, [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike]], and Daniel crash-landed on [[Nebulos]]; where the Autobots were taken captive by the inhabitants. After a Decepticon attack in which Daniel Witwicky was injured and put on life support, several Autobots were kidnapped by Decepticons.

The Nebulan warriors explained their situation with the [[Hive (G1)|Hive]] to the Autobots, and why they didn't trust them at first, and came to an agreement. Using Brainstorm's idea, they would use their and Daniel's minds with the Autobots' bodies to be powerful enough to defeat the Hive and save the others. Thus were born the Headmasters. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 1}}

Once the Headmasters got to know their partners, they set off to rescue the five captured captured Autobots. After some torture, Hot Rod, [[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]], Blurr, [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] were all saved by the Headmasters.

After witnessing the power of secondary operators, the Decepticons and other Autobots saw the logic in having some of their own.

The defeated Decepticons were captured by the hive and taken to their underground base of operations. [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]], the leader of the hive gave the Decepticons an opportunity to become powerful like the Autobot Headmasters at the literal cost of their heads. [[Cyclonus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Scourge]] agreed to let the Nebulans make Headmasters only out of the Decepticons there with beast modes, they however would only let the organic beings into their weapons. So [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]], [[Apeface]], [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]], [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]], and [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] were turned into Headmasters, [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]], [[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], Scourge, and Cyclonus had their weapons modified so that hive members could fit into and transform into them.

[[File:Cyclonus tm.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|*ptew ptew*]]
[[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], meanwhile had found a city and told the news to the other Autobots, damaging himself in the process. The Nebulans fixed him and believed the city he talked about to be the hive's old base from before they moved underground. The Decepticons, now with their Nebulan partners, attacked the Autobots again. Brainstorm was mad that the Decepticons stole his idea, the Head and Targetmasters and the Decepticons overwhelmed the Autobots and stole the key to the plasma energy chamber from them before the hive convinced the Decepticons to go back to Zarak to await orders.

[[File:Rebirth2 Blurr with gun.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.1|"Haywire you're grey and black, now stop looking like my old gun."
"Aww, but this model is so much nicer."]]
Brainstorm, to even the odds, showed his fellow Autobots scans of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]], showing how the Decepticons modified their guns and used the Nebulan tech to modify the non-Headmaster Autobot's guns and have Nebulan partners inside them. Hot Rod, Kup, Blurr, Crosshairs, Pointblank, and [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]]'s guns were modified and became the Autobot Targetmasters.

[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] then showed up on Nebulos and was introduced to the Autobot's Headmaster and Targetmaster partners. He was also informed that the Decepticons also had access to the same technology and the key to the plasma energy chamber. The Autobots went to the Decepticons to fight but they and their Nebulan partners had nearly completed their project. The Decepticons engaged the Autobots in combat but were surprised to see that the Autobots now had Targetmaster partners too.

The Autobots, however, were much more surprised to see that Zarak had created something big using the same Headmaster technology both factions had: [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 2}} {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 3}}
{{-}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
[[File:Tf headmaster 29 pointblank target on.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|FIRE IN THE HOLE!]]
In Japanese continuities, Targetmaster partners hail from the planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], but unlike the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] they are partnered with a regular Transformer as opposed to a [[Transtector]]. This fusion came about in a blast which binary-bonded a group of refugees from Master to the arms of the new Autobot recruits, as well as the Decepticon marauders, who were terrorizing the refugees in the first place. Unlike in the U.S. continuity and toys, when the Masters transform into gun mode, they take the place of their larger partner's entire hand instead of being held by it.

[[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]] and [[Artfire]] have Targetmasters, even though they were not present for the explosion. The Japanese Targetmasters speak in a series of electronic beeps (like the [[Mini-Con]]s) that only their bonded partner can understand, instead of speaking normally like their Headmaster brethren.
{{-}}

====''Wings Universe''====
{{wingsnote}}
[[Tornado]] was a Targetmaster, usually wielded by his [[Squadron X]] leader [[Macabre]] and later [[Ferak]]. {{storylink|Tornado - Decepticon Saboteur|Torando - Decepticon Saboteur, 2014/06/10}}

Following the [[Great Transformation]], [[Flareup (G1)|Flareup]] found herself stationed at [[New Polyhex]], where she became a star pupil while training under the ancient and enigmatic Target Masters before being recruited into the [[Cybertronian Knight]]s. {{storylink|Flareup (G1)#BotCon2014|BotCon 2014 Knight Flareup profile card}}

===''Shattered Glass''===
[[File:Crosshairs SG.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb]]
In this reverse universe, the Targetmasters take a much more active role in battle: they can take all motor control over the limb of whoever is holding them. The small partners are [[Micromaster]]s with three modes: robot, vehicle, and weapon.

[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] devised a plan to keep the Decepticons stranded on Cybertron while the Autobots fled to Earth. To execute this plan, he, [[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]], and [[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] took Targetmaster partners. [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]] was easily able to take down Megatron, but the Decepticon Micromasters were able to thwart the entire group of Targetmasters, allowing Megatron to free himself. {{storylink|Do Over}}

===''TransTech''===
After a bad experience with "colonists" from the [[Aurex]] Cluster, Nebulos made their atmosphere poisonous to Cybertronian life. In order to safely go undercover on this world, [[Vector Prime]] was binary bonded with [[Safeguard (TransTech)|Safeguard]], a friendly native. In addition to processing Vector Prime's fuel, he could also become a handheld weapon, making him a Target/Powermaster. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/11/01}}

===''Beast Wars: Uprising''===
Targetmaster technology was first created in the 21st century, by the Nebulans [[Teslor]] and [[Arcana]], as an enhancement to the already-existing Headmaster technology. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}} The process involved the subjects mingling their sparks, granting both a dramatic boost in power, such as being able to shoot down ships from orbit. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}} The technology gave the Autobots a temporary advantage in the war for Nebulos, until [[Fracas]] and [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] defected to the Decepticons, taking the Targetmaster process with them.

When the war spread to the planet [[Master (planet)|Rebirth]], the [[Malignus (G1)|Malignus]] scientist [[Nucleon (Generations)|Nucleon]] adapted the process to work with Cyberdroid physiology. Along with the Powermaster and Headmaster technology, it was used to create the [[Triple-Threat Master]] technology as well. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}}

Towards the end of the war, the mad Decepticon [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] found out the Targetmasters' ability to draw power from their wielder's Sparks could be amplified, and took the ability to its conclusion: being able to draw the life out of a Cybertronian just being near them. Terrified by this discovery, Autobots and Decepticons alike arranged for the Targetmasters, organic and Cybertronian alike, to be granted exile when the war ended. However, this was a ruse, and both sides arranged for the mass murder of all Targetmasters to prevent their powers being used ever again. The systematic eradication was later dubbed the "[[Targetmaster Extirpation]]". However, a few Targetmasters did survive, and went into hiding on a Cybertron now utterly hostile to their kind.

In the 24th century, one of the last Targetmasters, [[Twirl (G1)|Twirl]], was killed by [[Overrun]] when she considered outing herself. This sequence of events led to Overrun himself dying to prevent anyone else getting their hands on him. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1987]])
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[Haywire]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Hot Rod]] with [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] with [[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Pointblank]] with [[Peacemaker]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[Spoilsport]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Crosshairs.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Crosshairs]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Autobot Targetmasters were sold boxed with their Targetmaster partners, and consisted of three all-new molds alongside slightly retooled versions of Hot Rod, Kup, and Blurr from the previous year's assortment. The three older molds featured enlarged fist holes, allowing them to hold their new weapons. Both old and new molds transform into futuristic/Cybertronian ground vehicles. All six can mount their Targetmaster weapon on their roof or hood while in vehicle mode.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]] with [[Aimless (G1)|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[Fracas]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] with [[Blowpipe (G1)|Blowpipe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Misfire.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Misfire]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Similar to their Autobot counterparts, the Decepticon Targetmasters feature three new jet molds alongside retooled versions of Cyclonus and Scourge with enlarged fist holes. All five transform into futuristic/Cybertronian aircraft. Their weapons can be mounted on top of them in jet form. The three newer molds were also sold in 1988.
|}

{{anchor|JapaneseTargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Japanese-original Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Stepper ([[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]]) with [[Nebulon (Headmasters)|Nebulon]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire]] with [[Nightstick (Headmasters)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Stepper.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Stepper]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Artfire and Ricochet are [[redeco]]s and [[retool]]ings of the original toys for [[Inferno (G1)#Toys|Inferno]] and [[Jazz (G1)/toys#Generation 1|Jazz]], respectively. They each come with the Targetmaster partner molds that were used as Fracas and Nightstick in the US.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1988]])
{{anchor|doubletargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] with [[Flintlock]] and [[Silencer (G1)|Silencer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] with [[Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (G1)|Ricochet]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Targetmaster)|Tracer]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Landfill.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nebulan-on-Nebulan action!]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Often referred to as the "small Targetmasters" to distinguish them from the larger 1987 releases, these toys were sold carded. Each toy includes two smaller Targetmaster partners, each of which can form a gun or combine together as a larger gun. The two guns can also mount on the robot's vehicle form. The three Autobots share a construction vehicle theme. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] with [[Sunbeam (G1)|Sunbeam]] and [[Zigzag]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Quake (G1)|Quake]] with [[Tiptop]] and [[Heater]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] with [[Hairsplitter]] and [[Singe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Quake.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Quake]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Decepticon "small Targetmasters" were sold carded with two Targetmaster partners each. Like the 1988 Autobots, these partners can form independent or combined weapons, and mount on their partner Transformers' vehicle forms or be wielded by them in robot mode. The three Transformers all turn into military vehicles. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{{anchor|seacons}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Seacons'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Nautilator]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skalor]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]]}}
|
|[[File:Nautilatorg1toy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nautilator]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Seacons are a [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1986 (Scramble City and 2010)|Scramble City]]-style combiner team, with [[Snaptrap (G1)|a large leader toy]] who forms the torso of a larger robot, with four smaller toys plugging in to form the limbs. The team was given an additional fifth small toy, however. All five small toys have a "weapon" mode—essentially their creature mode with a gun barrel attached—allowing any of them to be used by the combined robot as a Targetmaster weapon. Each small toy could also form a free-standing gun by attaching to a small stand included with the toy.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1990]])
{{anchor|actionmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Action Masters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[Razor-Sharp]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Jackpot (G1)|Jackpot]] with [[Sights (G1)|Sights]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Krok (G1)|Krok]] with [[Gatoraider]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[Push-Button]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Rad (G1)|Rad]] with [[Lionizer (G1)|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Rollout (G1)|Rollout]] with [[Glitch (G1)|Glitch]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[Top-Heavy]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[Catgut]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy PushButton.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Push-Button]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several [[Action Master]] figures include robotic partners who transform into weapons for the robot's use. Though not labeled as such at the time, 2003's ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye]]'' profile books retroactively dubbed these characters Targetmasters. Logically, the other partners not included in the series could be considered Targetmasters too, but have never officially been labeled as such.
|}

===Beast Wars===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Basics'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m1|[[Break]]}}
{{Bp-m1|[[Stampy (BWN)|Stampy]]}}
|
|[[File:BWN-toy Stampy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Stampy]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several of the ''Beast Wars Neo'' toys include third-mode weapon forms, which could be wielded by other toys.
|}

===Beast Machines===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2000]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m2|[[Dillo]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Mol]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Rav (BM)|Rav]]}}
|[[File:BeastMachinestoy-Mol.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Mol]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2003)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2003]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-p1|[[Chro]]<ref>Chro was called a Targetmaster in Cryotek's [http://botcon.com/archive/story/characters/cryotek.html BotCon online bio]. Chro is repurposed from Rav's blue deco.</ref>}}
|[[File:BM RavBlue-Chro-toy.jpg|upright=1.66|Chro the Raven, “Nevermore”.|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Collector's Edition===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Collector's Edition|Orion Pax]] (w/ [[Roller (G1)#Collector's Edition|Barrelroller]] and [[Dion (G1)#Collector's Edition|Dion]])}}
|[[File:Barrelroller g1.jpg|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2008)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys#Universe (2008)|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:UniverseCyclonusCorrected.JPG|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
A re-imagining of their original designs.
|}

===Gentei! Gentei!===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] with [[Rocketbot]]}}
|
|[[File:Henkei-toy Rocketbot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
[[Redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}

===Timelines (Shattered Glass)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-sa|[[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (SG)|Holepunch]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (SG)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] with [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-sd|[[Cyclonus (SG)|Cyclonus]] with [[Krunix (SG)|Krunix]]}}
|
|[[File:SGtoy-Cyclonus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Scoop, Crosshairs, Holepunch, Pinpointer and Nightstick are [[repurposing|repurposed]] toys from previous toylines. Cyclonus and Krunix are [[redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}
{{toystub}}

===United===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#United|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#United|Nightstick]] and [[Sparks#Toys|Sparks]])}}
|[[File:Unitedtoy-Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Targetmaster Microns'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Fracas]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Haywire]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Spoilsport]] (2011)}}
|
[[File:United-toy Recoil.jpg|Recoil|thumb|upright=1.66]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The ''[[Power Core Combiners]]'' [[Mini-Con]] molds are released as Targetmaster Microns in the Japanese toyline ''[[Transformers United]]''.<ref>[http://www.takaratomy.co.jp/products/TF/event/micron_01.html ''Transformers United'' official site]</ref>
|}

===Transformers (2010)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] (with [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]])}}
|
|[[File:Masterpiecetoy-Offshoot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The North American release of Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] comes with a "Limited Edition" Targetmaster partner named [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]].
|}

===Masterpiece===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#Masterpiece|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#Masterpiece|Nightstick]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#MP-40|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Masterpiece|Firebolt]])}}
|[[File:Masterpiece MP-37 Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Artfire]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Generations===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Thrilling 30''' (2013-2014)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)#Generations|Autobot Scoop]] (w/ [[Holepunch (G1)#Generations|Holepunch]] & [[Tracer (Targetmaster)#Generations|Caliburst]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Combiner Wars''' (2014-2016)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)#Combiner Wars|TFSS Spinister]] (w/ [[Hairsplitter#Combiner Wars|Shrute]] & [[Singe#Generations|Singe]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)#Generations|TFSS Needlenose]] (w/ [[Sunbeam (G1)#Combiner Wars|Sunbeam]] & [[Zigzag#Combiner Wars|Zputty]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''War for Cybertron Trilogy''' (2018-2020)
{{Bp-d1|[[Blowpipe (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Blowpipe]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Firebolt (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Firedrive]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Aimless (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skywarp (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron: Siege|Skywarp]] (w/ [[Fracas#War for Cybertron: Siege|Fracas]] & [[Hairsplitter#War for Cybertron: Siege|Shrute)]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Hotlink (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Hotlink]] (w/ [[Heartburn#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heartburn]] & [[Heatstroke#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heatstroke)]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Megatron (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Decepticon Megatron]] (w/ [[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Lionizer]] and [[Pinpointer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Pinpointer]])}}

|[[File:Scoop-deluxe-generations.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Scoop]]
</ul>
|}
{{main|Battle Master}}
{{groupstub}}
{{-}}

===Legends===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Legends|Firebolt]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Cher]] (w/ [[Recoil (G1)#Legends|Recoil]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Triggerhappy]] (w/ [[Blowpipe (G1)#Legends|Blowpipe]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Doublecross#Legends|Targetmaster Doublecross]] (w/ [[Haywire#Legends|Haywire]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Misfire]] (w/ [[Aimless (G1)#Legends|Aimless]])}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Slugslinger]] (w/ [[Caliburst (G1)#Legends|Caliburst]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Windblade (G1)#LG62|Targetmaster Windblade]] (w/ [[Pinpointer (G1)#Legends|Pointech]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Topspin (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Topspin]] (w/ [[Peacemaker#Legends|Peaceman]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Twin Twist#Legends|Targetmaster Twin Twist]] (w/ [[Spoilsport#Legends|Spoil]])}}
|[[File:TF-LG-45-Targetmaster-Rodimus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Hot Rodimus]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

==Notes==
===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Targetmaster''' (ターゲットマスター ''Tāgettomasutā'')
*''Hungarian:'' '''Célmester''' (Marvel Comics, "Targetmaster")

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising subgroups]]
[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising technology]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Generation 1 technology]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:The Headmasters subgroups]]
[[Category:The Headmasters technology]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass subgroups]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass technology]]
[[Category:Targetmasters| ]]
[[Category:Wings Universe subgroups]]
[[Category:Wings Universe technology]]

Targetmaster (technology)

2021-05-07T22:44:41Z

Warpshard: /* Legends */ Adding Hot Rodimus' name to the caption of his image

{{disambig3.5|the 1987 gimmick|the 2019 gimmick|Battle Master|Targetmaster}}
[[File:Desertislandofspace-targetmaster-rollcall.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cambot! Gypsy! Tom Servo! Croooooow!]]
The '''Targetmasters''' are a subset of Transformers [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] to smaller partners, who transform into their weapons. The partner is often an organic life form that has been bio-engineered to be partly mechanical, or wears a suit of armor that transforms around them to become the weapon.

The Targetmasters benefit from being able to take two minds into battle. A Targetmaster possesses a living weapon that is capable of making its own tactical decisions and target priorities. The advantage is similar to that of having a dedicated gunner aboard an aircraft or tank.

The Targetmaster process is often seen to follow shortly after development of the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] process. The earliest known Targetmasters were among the [[Autobot]]s and [[Decepticon]]s involved in the war on [[Nebulos]], and were paired with a bio-engineered [[Nebulan]] humanoid which wore a transforming exosuit. Later Targetmasters included virtually any Transformer specifically partnered with another being that becomes their weapon, not limited to Nebulans or organics. The term has been applied to the [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]] team<ref>[[Hasbro]]'s 1988 toy [[catalog]]</ref> and several [[Action Master]] pairings.<ref>''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]''</ref>

Some Transformers, known as '''Double-Targetmasters''', are bonded with two smaller partners who can form individual weapons or combine with one another to form a 'double weapon', with the power of whichever weapon forms the 'barrel' boosted by the other.

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics====
{{noteukonly}}
The first Targetmasters were a group of six Autobots under the command of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Fortress Maximus]]. Having traveled to the planet Nebulos in search of peace, this group surrendered their weapons to the natives to prove their peaceful intentions. {{storylink|Ring of Hate!}}

''Nebulon minds were duplicated and installed into transformable Nebulon-sized robots, creating the Targetmasters.'' {{storylink|The Final Conflict}}

{{note|This depiction of Targetmasters as robots with duplicated Nebulon minds and not actual Nebulons is unique to this story.}}

[[File:BrothersinArmor-Targetmasters.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4|Mouseketeer Roll Call! Cubby! Bobby! Gregor! Jimmy! Darlene! Annette!]]
Some time later, [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] and his Decepticon Headmaster partner [[Scorponok (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Scorponok]] had discredited the Autobots, turned public opinion against them, and driven them into retreat. A group of six Nebulan dissidents undertook a great risk to join the Autobots, allowing themselves to be bio-engineered into replacement weapons for the six unarmed Autobots. The Targetmasters became known as [[Peacemaker]], [[Spoilsport]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], [[Sparks]], and [[Haywire]].

The Autobot Targetmasters' first trial by combat came at the [[Nursery (Nebulos)|Nursery]], a horticultural research facility that was under threat by Zarak's Decepticons. The newly minted Targetmasters engaged Scorponok and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] in a battle for the Nursery, but retreated as the facility was being destroyed by the battle, regardless of who was winning.

[[File:Decepticon targetmasters brothers in armor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
[[Vorath]] was soon able to duplicate the Autobots' experiment, creating a group of five Decepticon Targetmasters, though they weren't quite a match for the Autobot Headmasters. All of the Targetmasters left Nebulos soon after, as the Autobots retreated to spare Nebulos further warfare, and the Decepticons pursued. {{storylink|Brothers in Armor!!}}

[[File:Pointblank worlds apart.jpg|thumb|left]]
''At some point before leaving Nebulos, the Decepticons captured [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]], [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] and took them back to their [[Fortress of Despair]], apparently because they couldn't perfect the Targetmaster process. After a brief skirmish with the Autobot Headmasters, they retreated and let the Autobots follow them...directly into a trap! It was not creating Targetmasters that Scorponok was struggling with, but Headmasters. Although [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] was able to release the Autobot Targetmasters, and with their partners [[Peacemaker]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], and [[Spoilsport]] they pretty much won the battle, Scorponok was able to escape with a captive [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] to study.'' {{storylink|Worlds Apart!}}

{{note|Only the eleven "large" Targetmasters are given an origin in the ''Headmasters'' mini-series, and there isn't a lot of room in the plot for others to have been made off-panel. Nevertheless, the [[The Transformers Universe|Marvel bios]] for several of the "small" (1988) Targetmasters imply they became Targetmasters at this time.}}

After arriving on [[Earth]], the Autobot Targetmasters subsequently went on a mission to rescue the human [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]] from the Decepticons. They were repulsed from the Decepticons' [[Club Con|island base]] by a phalanx of hidden weapons. {{storylink|The Desert Island of Space!}}

[[File:Nightstickwreckinghavoc.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
''Having left Scorponok's forces, [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] attempted to force their former leader [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] to hand over his [[time-jump trigger device]], backed up by their Targetmaster partners. When the meeting was interrupted by the [[Wrecker]]s and battle ensued, Springer attempted to relieve Cyclonus of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] but was taken aback when the gun transformed and ran away from him.'' {{storylink|Wrecking Havoc}}

[[File:Nightstickcrushed.jpg|thumb|left|100px]]
''Nightstick would not prove to be nearly so fortunate when Cyclonus and Scourge attempted to forge an alliance with the current [[Decepticon leader]] [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]]. When negotiations went badly, Shockwave sent a [[Straxus (G1)|clone]] of [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] to kill Cyclonus and crush his gun.'' {{storylink|Dry Run!}}

''[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], along with [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] and [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], led an attack on an Autobot [[Ark shuttlecraft|shuttle]] to retrieve Scorponok's head from Highbrow, but once he had been reassembled they were spirited away to [[Limbo]] to make way for [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] from the future. Meanwhile, Scourge and [[Fracas]] were fighting alongside Galvatron and the Megatron clone against the Wreckers and [[Mayhem Attack Squad|Mayhems]]. Ultimately the present-day Targetmasters reappeared when Soundwave returned his troops to their own time, but Cyclonus and Scourge vanished into the [[time rift]].'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}

Additional Targetmasters may or may not have been created as the war went on. [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] and [[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] were both seen using weapons resembling their Targetmaster partners, but their individual circumstances do not seem to easily allow for them to have been on Nebulos to acquire Targetmaster partners. {{storylink|Yesterday's Heroes!}}

Recoil was among the weapons surrendered by the Autobots to the Decepticons as part of preparation for an alliance against [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]]. {{storylink|Surrender!}}
{{-}}

====Marvel UK future timelines====
[[File:Targetmaster-nomore.jpg|thumb|Hot Rod is no longer a Targetmaster as he mourns Firebolt's death.]]
In the year [[2007]], Autobot leader [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] reminisced about the war; on Nebulos where he first teamed up with his Targetmaster partner [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]] and later, on Earth, when Firebolt died under unspecified circumstances. {{storylink|Headhunt}}
{{-}}

====Earthforce====
{{earthforcefiction}}
[[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]] noted the double-paired Targetmasters known as Double-Targetmasters among his list of complaints about how complicated things had gotten in his absence. {{storylink|Starting Over!}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
The Targetmaster process was developed eons ago on Cybertron, as a process to forge a warrior and his weapon into a cohesive fighting team. The two are linked on a mental and physical level, allowing them to draw energy from each other and multitask with extreme efficiency. Targetmaster weapons cannot be wielded by another being without their consent unless they are somehow incapacitated in their weapon configuration. Severe injury or death of one partner can have a profound physical and emotional impact on the other.

The Targetmaster process was further expanded upon on the planet Nebulon. This would allow organic humanoids, not just mechanoids, to function as weapons when adorned with removable armor. The strength and endurance of these modified beings were greatly enhanced, though their appearance does not change. {{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye issue 8}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====American cartoon continuity====
[[File:Targetmasters.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Here's me, and here's my gun!]]
The creation of Targetmasters and [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], in this continuity, started with an initial idea of Brainstorm's that Autobots should use [[human]] partners while driving to help with steering and speed, this idea was confirmed when a race between [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]] and [[Blurr (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blurr]] was won not by Blurr's speed, but by [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]]'s help in driving Hot Rod. [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], however, was very sceptical about this idea.

After a large scale Decepticon attack, several Autobots, [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike]], and Daniel crash-landed on [[Nebulos]]; where the Autobots were taken captive by the inhabitants. After a Decepticon attack in which Daniel Witwicky was injured and put on life support, several Autobots were kidnapped by Decepticons.

The Nebulan warriors explained their situation with the [[Hive (G1)|Hive]] to the Autobots, and why they didn't trust them at first, and came to an agreement. Using Brainstorm's idea, they would use their and Daniel's minds with the Autobots' bodies to be powerful enough to defeat the Hive and save the others. Thus were born the Headmasters. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 1}}

Once the Headmasters got to know their partners, they set off to rescue the five captured captured Autobots. After some torture, Hot Rod, [[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]], Blurr, [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] were all saved by the Headmasters.

After witnessing the power of secondary operators, the Decepticons and other Autobots saw the logic in having some of their own.

The defeated Decepticons were captured by the hive and taken to their underground base of operations. [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]], the leader of the hive gave the Decepticons an opportunity to become powerful like the Autobot Headmasters at the literal cost of their heads. [[Cyclonus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Scourge]] agreed to let the Nebulans make Headmasters only out of the Decepticons there with beast modes, they however would only let the organic beings into their weapons. So [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]], [[Apeface]], [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]], [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]], and [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] were turned into Headmasters, [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]], [[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], Scourge, and Cyclonus had their weapons modified so that hive members could fit into and transform into them.

[[File:Cyclonus tm.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|*ptew ptew*]]
[[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], meanwhile had found a city and told the news to the other Autobots, damaging himself in the process. The Nebulans fixed him and believed the city he talked about to be the hive's old base from before they moved underground. The Decepticons, now with their Nebulan partners, attacked the Autobots again. Brainstorm was mad that the Decepticons stole his idea, the Head and Targetmasters and the Decepticons overwhelmed the Autobots and stole the key to the plasma energy chamber from them before the hive convinced the Decepticons to go back to Zarak to await orders.

[[File:Rebirth2 Blurr with gun.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.1|"Haywire you're grey and black, now stop looking like my old gun."
"Aww, but this model is so much nicer."]]
Brainstorm, to even the odds, showed his fellow Autobots scans of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]], showing how the Decepticons modified their guns and used the Nebulan tech to modify the non-Headmaster Autobot's guns and have Nebulan partners inside them. Hot Rod, Kup, Blurr, Crosshairs, Pointblank, and [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]]'s guns were modified and became the Autobot Targetmasters.

[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] then showed up on Nebulos and was introduced to the Autobot's Headmaster and Targetmaster partners. He was also informed that the Decepticons also had access to the same technology and the key to the plasma energy chamber. The Autobots went to the Decepticons to fight but they and their Nebulan partners had nearly completed their project. The Decepticons engaged the Autobots in combat but were surprised to see that the Autobots now had Targetmaster partners too.

The Autobots, however, were much more surprised to see that Zarak had created something big using the same Headmaster technology both factions had: [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 2}} {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 3}}
{{-}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
[[File:Tf headmaster 29 pointblank target on.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|FIRE IN THE HOLE!]]
In Japanese continuities, Targetmaster partners hail from the planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], but unlike the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] they are partnered with a regular Transformer as opposed to a [[Transtector]]. This fusion came about in a blast which binary-bonded a group of refugees from Master to the arms of the new Autobot recruits, as well as the Decepticon marauders, who were terrorizing the refugees in the first place. Unlike in the U.S. continuity and toys, when the Masters transform into gun mode, they take the place of their larger partner's entire hand instead of being held by it.

[[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]] and [[Artfire]] have Targetmasters, even though they were not present for the explosion. The Japanese Targetmasters speak in a series of electronic beeps (like the [[Mini-Con]]s) that only their bonded partner can understand, instead of speaking normally like their Headmaster brethren.
{{-}}

====''Wings Universe''====
{{wingsnote}}
[[Tornado]] was a Targetmaster, usually wielded by his [[Squadron X]] leader [[Macabre]] and later [[Ferak]]. {{storylink|Tornado - Decepticon Saboteur|Torando - Decepticon Saboteur, 2014/06/10}}

Following the [[Great Transformation]], [[Flareup (G1)|Flareup]] found herself stationed at [[New Polyhex]], where she became a star pupil while training under the ancient and enigmatic Target Masters before being recruited into the [[Cybertronian Knight]]s. {{storylink|Flareup (G1)#BotCon2014|BotCon 2014 Knight Flareup profile card}}

===''Shattered Glass''===
[[File:Crosshairs SG.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb]]
In this reverse universe, the Targetmasters take a much more active role in battle: they can take all motor control over the limb of whoever is holding them. The small partners are [[Micromaster]]s with three modes: robot, vehicle, and weapon.

[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] devised a plan to keep the Decepticons stranded on Cybertron while the Autobots fled to Earth. To execute this plan, he, [[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]], and [[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] took Targetmaster partners. [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]] was easily able to take down Megatron, but the Decepticon Micromasters were able to thwart the entire group of Targetmasters, allowing Megatron to free himself. {{storylink|Do Over}}

===''TransTech''===
After a bad experience with "colonists" from the [[Aurex]] Cluster, Nebulos made their atmosphere poisonous to Cybertronian life. In order to safely go undercover on this world, [[Vector Prime]] was binary bonded with [[Safeguard (TransTech)|Safeguard]], a friendly native. In addition to processing Vector Prime's fuel, he could also become a handheld weapon, making him a Target/Powermaster. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/11/01}}

===''Beast Wars: Uprising''===
Targetmaster technology was first created in the 21st century, by the Nebulans [[Teslor]] and [[Arcana]], as an enhancement to the already-existing Headmaster technology. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}} The process involved the subjects mingling their sparks, granting both a dramatic boost in power, such as being able to shoot down ships from orbit. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}} The technology gave the Autobots a temporary advantage in the war for Nebulos, until [[Fracas]] and [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] defected to the Decepticons, taking the Targetmaster process with them.

When the war spread to the planet [[Master (planet)|Rebirth]], the [[Malignus (G1)|Malignus]] scientist [[Nucleon (Generations)|Nucleon]] adapted the process to work with Cyberdroid physiology. Along with the Powermaster and Headmaster technology, it was used to create the [[Triple-Threat Master]] technology as well. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}}

Towards the end of the war, the mad Decepticon [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] found out the Targetmasters' ability to draw power from their wielder's Sparks could be amplified, and took the ability to its conclusion: being able to draw the life out of a Cybertronian just being near them. Terrified by this discovery, Autobots and Decepticons alike arranged for the Targetmasters, organic and Cybertronian alike, to be granted exile when the war ended. However, this was a ruse, and both sides arranged for the mass murder of all Targetmasters to prevent their powers being used ever again. The systematic eradication was later dubbed the "[[Targetmaster Extirpation]]". However, a few Targetmasters did survive, and went into hiding on a Cybertron now utterly hostile to their kind.

In the 24th century, one of the last Targetmasters, [[Twirl (G1)|Twirl]], was killed by [[Overrun]] when she considered outing herself. This sequence of events led to Overrun himself dying to prevent anyone else getting their hands on him. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1987]])
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[Haywire]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Hot Rod]] with [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] with [[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Pointblank]] with [[Peacemaker]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[Spoilsport]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Crosshairs.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Crosshairs]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Autobot Targetmasters were sold boxed with their Targetmaster partners, and consisted of three all-new molds alongside slightly retooled versions of Hot Rod, Kup, and Blurr from the previous year's assortment. The three older molds featured enlarged fist holes, allowing them to hold their new weapons. Both old and new molds transform into futuristic/Cybertronian ground vehicles. All six can mount their Targetmaster weapon on their roof or hood while in vehicle mode.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]] with [[Aimless (G1)|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[Fracas]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] with [[Blowpipe (G1)|Blowpipe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Misfire.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Misfire]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Similar to their Autobot counterparts, the Decepticon Targetmasters feature three new jet molds alongside retooled versions of Cyclonus and Scourge with enlarged fist holes. All five transform into futuristic/Cybertronian aircraft. Their weapons can be mounted on top of them in jet form. The three newer molds were also sold in 1988.
|}

{{anchor|JapaneseTargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Japanese-original Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Stepper ([[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]]) with [[Nebulon (Headmasters)|Nebulon]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire]] with [[Nightstick (Headmasters)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Stepper.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Stepper]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Artfire and Ricochet are [[redeco]]s and [[retool]]ings of the original toys for [[Inferno (G1)#Toys|Inferno]] and [[Jazz (G1)/toys#Generation 1|Jazz]], respectively. They each come with the Targetmaster partner molds that were used as Fracas and Nightstick in the US.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1988]])
{{anchor|doubletargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] with [[Flintlock]] and [[Silencer (G1)|Silencer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] with [[Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (G1)|Ricochet]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Targetmaster)|Tracer]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Landfill.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nebulan-on-Nebulan action!]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Often referred to as the "small Targetmasters" to distinguish them from the larger 1987 releases, these toys were sold carded. Each toy includes two smaller Targetmaster partners, each of which can form a gun or combine together as a larger gun. The two guns can also mount on the robot's vehicle form. The three Autobots share a construction vehicle theme. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] with [[Sunbeam (G1)|Sunbeam]] and [[Zigzag]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Quake (G1)|Quake]] with [[Tiptop]] and [[Heater]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] with [[Hairsplitter]] and [[Singe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Quake.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Quake]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Decepticon "small Targetmasters" were sold carded with two Targetmaster partners each. Like the 1988 Autobots, these partners can form independent or combined weapons, and mount on their partner Transformers' vehicle forms or be wielded by them in robot mode. The three Transformers all turn into military vehicles. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{{anchor|seacons}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Seacons'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Nautilator]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skalor]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]]}}
|
|[[File:Nautilatorg1toy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nautilator]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Seacons are a [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1986 (Scramble City and 2010)|Scramble City]]-style combiner team, with [[Snaptrap (G1)|a large leader toy]] who forms the torso of a larger robot, with four smaller toys plugging in to form the limbs. The team was given an additional fifth small toy, however. All five small toys have a "weapon" mode—essentially their creature mode with a gun barrel attached—allowing any of them to be used by the combined robot as a Targetmaster weapon. Each small toy could also form a free-standing gun by attaching to a small stand included with the toy.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1990]])
{{anchor|actionmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Action Masters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[Razor-Sharp]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Jackpot (G1)|Jackpot]] with [[Sights (G1)|Sights]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Krok (G1)|Krok]] with [[Gatoraider]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[Push-Button]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Rad (G1)|Rad]] with [[Lionizer (G1)|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Rollout (G1)|Rollout]] with [[Glitch (G1)|Glitch]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[Top-Heavy]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[Catgut]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy PushButton.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Push-Button]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several [[Action Master]] figures include robotic partners who transform into weapons for the robot's use. Though not labeled as such at the time, 2003's ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye]]'' profile books retroactively dubbed these characters Targetmasters. Logically, the other partners not included in the series could be considered Targetmasters too, but have never officially been labeled as such.
|}

===Beast Wars===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Basics'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m1|[[Break]]}}
{{Bp-m1|[[Stampy (BWN)|Stampy]]}}
|
|[[File:BWN-toy Stampy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Stampy]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several of the ''Beast Wars Neo'' toys include third-mode weapon forms, which could be wielded by other toys.
|}

===Beast Machines===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2000]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m2|[[Dillo]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Mol]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Rav (BM)|Rav]]}}
|[[File:BeastMachinestoy-Mol.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Mol]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2003)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2003]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-p1|[[Chro]]<ref>Chro was called a Targetmaster in Cryotek's [http://botcon.com/archive/story/characters/cryotek.html BotCon online bio]. Chro is repurposed from Rav's blue deco.</ref>}}
|[[File:BM RavBlue-Chro-toy.jpg|upright=1.66|Chro the Raven, “Nevermore”.|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Collector's Edition===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Collector's Edition|Orion Pax]] (w/ [[Roller (G1)#Collector's Edition|Barrelroller]] and [[Dion (G1)#Collector's Edition|Dion]])}}
|[[File:Barrelroller g1.jpg|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2008)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys#Universe (2008)|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:UniverseCyclonusCorrected.JPG|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
A re-imagining of their original designs.
|}

===Gentei! Gentei!===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] with [[Rocketbot]]}}
|
|[[File:Henkei-toy Rocketbot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
[[Redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}

===Timelines (Shattered Glass)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-sa|[[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (SG)|Holepunch]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (SG)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] with [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-sd|[[Cyclonus (SG)|Cyclonus]] with [[Krunix (SG)|Krunix]]}}
|
|[[File:SGtoy-Cyclonus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Scoop, Crosshairs, Holepunch, Pinpointer and Nightstick are [[repurposing|repurposed]] toys from previous toylines. Cyclonus and Krunix are [[redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}
{{toystub}}

===United===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#United|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#United|Nightstick]] and [[Sparks#Toys|Sparks]])}}
|[[File:Unitedtoy-Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Targetmaster Microns'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Fracas]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Haywire]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Spoilsport]] (2011)}}
|
[[File:United-toy Recoil.jpg|Recoil|thumb|upright=1.66]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The ''[[Power Core Combiners]]'' [[Mini-Con]] molds are released as Targetmaster Microns in the Japanese toyline ''[[Transformers United]]''.<ref>[http://www.takaratomy.co.jp/products/TF/event/micron_01.html ''Transformers United'' official site]</ref>
|}

===Transformers (2010)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] (with [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]])}}
|
|[[File:Masterpiecetoy-Offshoot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The North American release of Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] comes with a "Limited Edition" Targetmaster partner named [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]].
|}

===Masterpiece===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#Masterpiece|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#Masterpiece|Nightstick]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#MP-40|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Masterpiece|Firebolt]])}}
|[[File:Masterpiece MP-37 Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Generations===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Thrilling 30''' (2013-2014)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)#Generations|Autobot Scoop]] (w/ [[Holepunch (G1)#Generations|Holepunch]] & [[Tracer (Targetmaster)#Generations|Caliburst]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Combiner Wars''' (2014-2016)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)#Combiner Wars|TFSS Spinister]] (w/ [[Hairsplitter#Combiner Wars|Shrute]] & [[Singe#Generations|Singe]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)#Generations|TFSS Needlenose]] (w/ [[Sunbeam (G1)#Combiner Wars|Sunbeam]] & [[Zigzag#Combiner Wars|Zputty]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''War for Cybertron Trilogy''' (2018-2020)
{{Bp-d1|[[Blowpipe (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Blowpipe]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Firebolt (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Firedrive]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Aimless (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skywarp (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron: Siege|Skywarp]] (w/ [[Fracas#War for Cybertron: Siege|Fracas]] & [[Hairsplitter#War for Cybertron: Siege|Shrute)]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Hotlink (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Hotlink]] (w/ [[Heartburn#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heartburn]] & [[Heatstroke#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heatstroke)]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Megatron (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Decepticon Megatron]] (w/ [[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Lionizer]] and [[Pinpointer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Pinpointer]])}}

|[[File:Scoop-deluxe-generations.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Scoop]]
</ul>
|}
{{main|Battle Master}}
{{groupstub}}
{{-}}

===Legends===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Legends|Firebolt]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Cher]] (w/ [[Recoil (G1)#Legends|Recoil]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Triggerhappy]] (w/ [[Blowpipe (G1)#Legends|Blowpipe]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Doublecross#Legends|Targetmaster Doublecross]] (w/ [[Haywire#Legends|Haywire]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Misfire]] (w/ [[Aimless (G1)#Legends|Aimless]])}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Slugslinger]] (w/ [[Caliburst (G1)#Legends|Caliburst]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Windblade (G1)#LG62|Targetmaster Windblade]] (w/ [[Pinpointer (G1)#Legends|Pointech]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Topspin (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Topspin]] (w/ [[Peacemaker#Legends|Peaceman]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Twin Twist#Legends|Targetmaster Twin Twist]] (w/ [[Spoilsport#Legends|Spoil]])}}
|[[File:TF-LG-45-Targetmaster-Rodimus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Hot Rodimus]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

==Notes==
===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Targetmaster''' (ターゲットマスター ''Tāgettomasutā'')
*''Hungarian:'' '''Célmester''' (Marvel Comics, "Targetmaster")

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising subgroups]]
[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising technology]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Generation 1 technology]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:The Headmasters subgroups]]
[[Category:The Headmasters technology]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass subgroups]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass technology]]
[[Category:Targetmasters| ]]
[[Category:Wings Universe subgroups]]
[[Category:Wings Universe technology]]

Targetmaster (technology)

2021-05-07T22:44:12Z

Warpshard: /* Generations */ Adding Scoop's name to the caption of his image

{{disambig3.5|the 1987 gimmick|the 2019 gimmick|Battle Master|Targetmaster}}
[[File:Desertislandofspace-targetmaster-rollcall.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cambot! Gypsy! Tom Servo! Croooooow!]]
The '''Targetmasters''' are a subset of Transformers [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] to smaller partners, who transform into their weapons. The partner is often an organic life form that has been bio-engineered to be partly mechanical, or wears a suit of armor that transforms around them to become the weapon.

The Targetmasters benefit from being able to take two minds into battle. A Targetmaster possesses a living weapon that is capable of making its own tactical decisions and target priorities. The advantage is similar to that of having a dedicated gunner aboard an aircraft or tank.

The Targetmaster process is often seen to follow shortly after development of the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] process. The earliest known Targetmasters were among the [[Autobot]]s and [[Decepticon]]s involved in the war on [[Nebulos]], and were paired with a bio-engineered [[Nebulan]] humanoid which wore a transforming exosuit. Later Targetmasters included virtually any Transformer specifically partnered with another being that becomes their weapon, not limited to Nebulans or organics. The term has been applied to the [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]] team<ref>[[Hasbro]]'s 1988 toy [[catalog]]</ref> and several [[Action Master]] pairings.<ref>''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]''</ref>

Some Transformers, known as '''Double-Targetmasters''', are bonded with two smaller partners who can form individual weapons or combine with one another to form a 'double weapon', with the power of whichever weapon forms the 'barrel' boosted by the other.

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics====
{{noteukonly}}
The first Targetmasters were a group of six Autobots under the command of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Fortress Maximus]]. Having traveled to the planet Nebulos in search of peace, this group surrendered their weapons to the natives to prove their peaceful intentions. {{storylink|Ring of Hate!}}

''Nebulon minds were duplicated and installed into transformable Nebulon-sized robots, creating the Targetmasters.'' {{storylink|The Final Conflict}}

{{note|This depiction of Targetmasters as robots with duplicated Nebulon minds and not actual Nebulons is unique to this story.}}

[[File:BrothersinArmor-Targetmasters.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4|Mouseketeer Roll Call! Cubby! Bobby! Gregor! Jimmy! Darlene! Annette!]]
Some time later, [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] and his Decepticon Headmaster partner [[Scorponok (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Scorponok]] had discredited the Autobots, turned public opinion against them, and driven them into retreat. A group of six Nebulan dissidents undertook a great risk to join the Autobots, allowing themselves to be bio-engineered into replacement weapons for the six unarmed Autobots. The Targetmasters became known as [[Peacemaker]], [[Spoilsport]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], [[Sparks]], and [[Haywire]].

The Autobot Targetmasters' first trial by combat came at the [[Nursery (Nebulos)|Nursery]], a horticultural research facility that was under threat by Zarak's Decepticons. The newly minted Targetmasters engaged Scorponok and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] in a battle for the Nursery, but retreated as the facility was being destroyed by the battle, regardless of who was winning.

[[File:Decepticon targetmasters brothers in armor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
[[Vorath]] was soon able to duplicate the Autobots' experiment, creating a group of five Decepticon Targetmasters, though they weren't quite a match for the Autobot Headmasters. All of the Targetmasters left Nebulos soon after, as the Autobots retreated to spare Nebulos further warfare, and the Decepticons pursued. {{storylink|Brothers in Armor!!}}

[[File:Pointblank worlds apart.jpg|thumb|left]]
''At some point before leaving Nebulos, the Decepticons captured [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]], [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] and took them back to their [[Fortress of Despair]], apparently because they couldn't perfect the Targetmaster process. After a brief skirmish with the Autobot Headmasters, they retreated and let the Autobots follow them...directly into a trap! It was not creating Targetmasters that Scorponok was struggling with, but Headmasters. Although [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] was able to release the Autobot Targetmasters, and with their partners [[Peacemaker]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], and [[Spoilsport]] they pretty much won the battle, Scorponok was able to escape with a captive [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] to study.'' {{storylink|Worlds Apart!}}

{{note|Only the eleven "large" Targetmasters are given an origin in the ''Headmasters'' mini-series, and there isn't a lot of room in the plot for others to have been made off-panel. Nevertheless, the [[The Transformers Universe|Marvel bios]] for several of the "small" (1988) Targetmasters imply they became Targetmasters at this time.}}

After arriving on [[Earth]], the Autobot Targetmasters subsequently went on a mission to rescue the human [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]] from the Decepticons. They were repulsed from the Decepticons' [[Club Con|island base]] by a phalanx of hidden weapons. {{storylink|The Desert Island of Space!}}

[[File:Nightstickwreckinghavoc.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
''Having left Scorponok's forces, [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] attempted to force their former leader [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] to hand over his [[time-jump trigger device]], backed up by their Targetmaster partners. When the meeting was interrupted by the [[Wrecker]]s and battle ensued, Springer attempted to relieve Cyclonus of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] but was taken aback when the gun transformed and ran away from him.'' {{storylink|Wrecking Havoc}}

[[File:Nightstickcrushed.jpg|thumb|left|100px]]
''Nightstick would not prove to be nearly so fortunate when Cyclonus and Scourge attempted to forge an alliance with the current [[Decepticon leader]] [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]]. When negotiations went badly, Shockwave sent a [[Straxus (G1)|clone]] of [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] to kill Cyclonus and crush his gun.'' {{storylink|Dry Run!}}

''[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], along with [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] and [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], led an attack on an Autobot [[Ark shuttlecraft|shuttle]] to retrieve Scorponok's head from Highbrow, but once he had been reassembled they were spirited away to [[Limbo]] to make way for [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] from the future. Meanwhile, Scourge and [[Fracas]] were fighting alongside Galvatron and the Megatron clone against the Wreckers and [[Mayhem Attack Squad|Mayhems]]. Ultimately the present-day Targetmasters reappeared when Soundwave returned his troops to their own time, but Cyclonus and Scourge vanished into the [[time rift]].'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}

Additional Targetmasters may or may not have been created as the war went on. [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] and [[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] were both seen using weapons resembling their Targetmaster partners, but their individual circumstances do not seem to easily allow for them to have been on Nebulos to acquire Targetmaster partners. {{storylink|Yesterday's Heroes!}}

Recoil was among the weapons surrendered by the Autobots to the Decepticons as part of preparation for an alliance against [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]]. {{storylink|Surrender!}}
{{-}}

====Marvel UK future timelines====
[[File:Targetmaster-nomore.jpg|thumb|Hot Rod is no longer a Targetmaster as he mourns Firebolt's death.]]
In the year [[2007]], Autobot leader [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] reminisced about the war; on Nebulos where he first teamed up with his Targetmaster partner [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]] and later, on Earth, when Firebolt died under unspecified circumstances. {{storylink|Headhunt}}
{{-}}

====Earthforce====
{{earthforcefiction}}
[[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]] noted the double-paired Targetmasters known as Double-Targetmasters among his list of complaints about how complicated things had gotten in his absence. {{storylink|Starting Over!}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
The Targetmaster process was developed eons ago on Cybertron, as a process to forge a warrior and his weapon into a cohesive fighting team. The two are linked on a mental and physical level, allowing them to draw energy from each other and multitask with extreme efficiency. Targetmaster weapons cannot be wielded by another being without their consent unless they are somehow incapacitated in their weapon configuration. Severe injury or death of one partner can have a profound physical and emotional impact on the other.

The Targetmaster process was further expanded upon on the planet Nebulon. This would allow organic humanoids, not just mechanoids, to function as weapons when adorned with removable armor. The strength and endurance of these modified beings were greatly enhanced, though their appearance does not change. {{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye issue 8}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====American cartoon continuity====
[[File:Targetmasters.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Here's me, and here's my gun!]]
The creation of Targetmasters and [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], in this continuity, started with an initial idea of Brainstorm's that Autobots should use [[human]] partners while driving to help with steering and speed, this idea was confirmed when a race between [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]] and [[Blurr (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blurr]] was won not by Blurr's speed, but by [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]]'s help in driving Hot Rod. [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], however, was very sceptical about this idea.

After a large scale Decepticon attack, several Autobots, [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike]], and Daniel crash-landed on [[Nebulos]]; where the Autobots were taken captive by the inhabitants. After a Decepticon attack in which Daniel Witwicky was injured and put on life support, several Autobots were kidnapped by Decepticons.

The Nebulan warriors explained their situation with the [[Hive (G1)|Hive]] to the Autobots, and why they didn't trust them at first, and came to an agreement. Using Brainstorm's idea, they would use their and Daniel's minds with the Autobots' bodies to be powerful enough to defeat the Hive and save the others. Thus were born the Headmasters. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 1}}

Once the Headmasters got to know their partners, they set off to rescue the five captured captured Autobots. After some torture, Hot Rod, [[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]], Blurr, [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] were all saved by the Headmasters.

After witnessing the power of secondary operators, the Decepticons and other Autobots saw the logic in having some of their own.

The defeated Decepticons were captured by the hive and taken to their underground base of operations. [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]], the leader of the hive gave the Decepticons an opportunity to become powerful like the Autobot Headmasters at the literal cost of their heads. [[Cyclonus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Scourge]] agreed to let the Nebulans make Headmasters only out of the Decepticons there with beast modes, they however would only let the organic beings into their weapons. So [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]], [[Apeface]], [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]], [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]], and [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] were turned into Headmasters, [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]], [[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], Scourge, and Cyclonus had their weapons modified so that hive members could fit into and transform into them.

[[File:Cyclonus tm.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|*ptew ptew*]]
[[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], meanwhile had found a city and told the news to the other Autobots, damaging himself in the process. The Nebulans fixed him and believed the city he talked about to be the hive's old base from before they moved underground. The Decepticons, now with their Nebulan partners, attacked the Autobots again. Brainstorm was mad that the Decepticons stole his idea, the Head and Targetmasters and the Decepticons overwhelmed the Autobots and stole the key to the plasma energy chamber from them before the hive convinced the Decepticons to go back to Zarak to await orders.

[[File:Rebirth2 Blurr with gun.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.1|"Haywire you're grey and black, now stop looking like my old gun."
"Aww, but this model is so much nicer."]]
Brainstorm, to even the odds, showed his fellow Autobots scans of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]], showing how the Decepticons modified their guns and used the Nebulan tech to modify the non-Headmaster Autobot's guns and have Nebulan partners inside them. Hot Rod, Kup, Blurr, Crosshairs, Pointblank, and [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]]'s guns were modified and became the Autobot Targetmasters.

[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] then showed up on Nebulos and was introduced to the Autobot's Headmaster and Targetmaster partners. He was also informed that the Decepticons also had access to the same technology and the key to the plasma energy chamber. The Autobots went to the Decepticons to fight but they and their Nebulan partners had nearly completed their project. The Decepticons engaged the Autobots in combat but were surprised to see that the Autobots now had Targetmaster partners too.

The Autobots, however, were much more surprised to see that Zarak had created something big using the same Headmaster technology both factions had: [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 2}} {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 3}}
{{-}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
[[File:Tf headmaster 29 pointblank target on.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|FIRE IN THE HOLE!]]
In Japanese continuities, Targetmaster partners hail from the planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], but unlike the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] they are partnered with a regular Transformer as opposed to a [[Transtector]]. This fusion came about in a blast which binary-bonded a group of refugees from Master to the arms of the new Autobot recruits, as well as the Decepticon marauders, who were terrorizing the refugees in the first place. Unlike in the U.S. continuity and toys, when the Masters transform into gun mode, they take the place of their larger partner's entire hand instead of being held by it.

[[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]] and [[Artfire]] have Targetmasters, even though they were not present for the explosion. The Japanese Targetmasters speak in a series of electronic beeps (like the [[Mini-Con]]s) that only their bonded partner can understand, instead of speaking normally like their Headmaster brethren.
{{-}}

====''Wings Universe''====
{{wingsnote}}
[[Tornado]] was a Targetmaster, usually wielded by his [[Squadron X]] leader [[Macabre]] and later [[Ferak]]. {{storylink|Tornado - Decepticon Saboteur|Torando - Decepticon Saboteur, 2014/06/10}}

Following the [[Great Transformation]], [[Flareup (G1)|Flareup]] found herself stationed at [[New Polyhex]], where she became a star pupil while training under the ancient and enigmatic Target Masters before being recruited into the [[Cybertronian Knight]]s. {{storylink|Flareup (G1)#BotCon2014|BotCon 2014 Knight Flareup profile card}}

===''Shattered Glass''===
[[File:Crosshairs SG.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb]]
In this reverse universe, the Targetmasters take a much more active role in battle: they can take all motor control over the limb of whoever is holding them. The small partners are [[Micromaster]]s with three modes: robot, vehicle, and weapon.

[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] devised a plan to keep the Decepticons stranded on Cybertron while the Autobots fled to Earth. To execute this plan, he, [[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]], and [[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] took Targetmaster partners. [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]] was easily able to take down Megatron, but the Decepticon Micromasters were able to thwart the entire group of Targetmasters, allowing Megatron to free himself. {{storylink|Do Over}}

===''TransTech''===
After a bad experience with "colonists" from the [[Aurex]] Cluster, Nebulos made their atmosphere poisonous to Cybertronian life. In order to safely go undercover on this world, [[Vector Prime]] was binary bonded with [[Safeguard (TransTech)|Safeguard]], a friendly native. In addition to processing Vector Prime's fuel, he could also become a handheld weapon, making him a Target/Powermaster. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/11/01}}

===''Beast Wars: Uprising''===
Targetmaster technology was first created in the 21st century, by the Nebulans [[Teslor]] and [[Arcana]], as an enhancement to the already-existing Headmaster technology. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}} The process involved the subjects mingling their sparks, granting both a dramatic boost in power, such as being able to shoot down ships from orbit. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}} The technology gave the Autobots a temporary advantage in the war for Nebulos, until [[Fracas]] and [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] defected to the Decepticons, taking the Targetmaster process with them.

When the war spread to the planet [[Master (planet)|Rebirth]], the [[Malignus (G1)|Malignus]] scientist [[Nucleon (Generations)|Nucleon]] adapted the process to work with Cyberdroid physiology. Along with the Powermaster and Headmaster technology, it was used to create the [[Triple-Threat Master]] technology as well. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}}

Towards the end of the war, the mad Decepticon [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] found out the Targetmasters' ability to draw power from their wielder's Sparks could be amplified, and took the ability to its conclusion: being able to draw the life out of a Cybertronian just being near them. Terrified by this discovery, Autobots and Decepticons alike arranged for the Targetmasters, organic and Cybertronian alike, to be granted exile when the war ended. However, this was a ruse, and both sides arranged for the mass murder of all Targetmasters to prevent their powers being used ever again. The systematic eradication was later dubbed the "[[Targetmaster Extirpation]]". However, a few Targetmasters did survive, and went into hiding on a Cybertron now utterly hostile to their kind.

In the 24th century, one of the last Targetmasters, [[Twirl (G1)|Twirl]], was killed by [[Overrun]] when she considered outing herself. This sequence of events led to Overrun himself dying to prevent anyone else getting their hands on him. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1987]])
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[Haywire]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Hot Rod]] with [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] with [[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Pointblank]] with [[Peacemaker]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[Spoilsport]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Crosshairs.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Crosshairs]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Autobot Targetmasters were sold boxed with their Targetmaster partners, and consisted of three all-new molds alongside slightly retooled versions of Hot Rod, Kup, and Blurr from the previous year's assortment. The three older molds featured enlarged fist holes, allowing them to hold their new weapons. Both old and new molds transform into futuristic/Cybertronian ground vehicles. All six can mount their Targetmaster weapon on their roof or hood while in vehicle mode.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]] with [[Aimless (G1)|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[Fracas]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] with [[Blowpipe (G1)|Blowpipe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Misfire.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Misfire]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Similar to their Autobot counterparts, the Decepticon Targetmasters feature three new jet molds alongside retooled versions of Cyclonus and Scourge with enlarged fist holes. All five transform into futuristic/Cybertronian aircraft. Their weapons can be mounted on top of them in jet form. The three newer molds were also sold in 1988.
|}

{{anchor|JapaneseTargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Japanese-original Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Stepper ([[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]]) with [[Nebulon (Headmasters)|Nebulon]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire]] with [[Nightstick (Headmasters)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Stepper.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Stepper]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Artfire and Ricochet are [[redeco]]s and [[retool]]ings of the original toys for [[Inferno (G1)#Toys|Inferno]] and [[Jazz (G1)/toys#Generation 1|Jazz]], respectively. They each come with the Targetmaster partner molds that were used as Fracas and Nightstick in the US.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1988]])
{{anchor|doubletargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] with [[Flintlock]] and [[Silencer (G1)|Silencer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] with [[Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (G1)|Ricochet]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Targetmaster)|Tracer]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Landfill.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nebulan-on-Nebulan action!]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Often referred to as the "small Targetmasters" to distinguish them from the larger 1987 releases, these toys were sold carded. Each toy includes two smaller Targetmaster partners, each of which can form a gun or combine together as a larger gun. The two guns can also mount on the robot's vehicle form. The three Autobots share a construction vehicle theme. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] with [[Sunbeam (G1)|Sunbeam]] and [[Zigzag]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Quake (G1)|Quake]] with [[Tiptop]] and [[Heater]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] with [[Hairsplitter]] and [[Singe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Quake.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Quake]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Decepticon "small Targetmasters" were sold carded with two Targetmaster partners each. Like the 1988 Autobots, these partners can form independent or combined weapons, and mount on their partner Transformers' vehicle forms or be wielded by them in robot mode. The three Transformers all turn into military vehicles. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{{anchor|seacons}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Seacons'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Nautilator]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skalor]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]]}}
|
|[[File:Nautilatorg1toy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nautilator]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Seacons are a [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1986 (Scramble City and 2010)|Scramble City]]-style combiner team, with [[Snaptrap (G1)|a large leader toy]] who forms the torso of a larger robot, with four smaller toys plugging in to form the limbs. The team was given an additional fifth small toy, however. All five small toys have a "weapon" mode—essentially their creature mode with a gun barrel attached—allowing any of them to be used by the combined robot as a Targetmaster weapon. Each small toy could also form a free-standing gun by attaching to a small stand included with the toy.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1990]])
{{anchor|actionmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Action Masters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[Razor-Sharp]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Jackpot (G1)|Jackpot]] with [[Sights (G1)|Sights]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Krok (G1)|Krok]] with [[Gatoraider]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[Push-Button]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Rad (G1)|Rad]] with [[Lionizer (G1)|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Rollout (G1)|Rollout]] with [[Glitch (G1)|Glitch]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[Top-Heavy]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[Catgut]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy PushButton.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Push-Button]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several [[Action Master]] figures include robotic partners who transform into weapons for the robot's use. Though not labeled as such at the time, 2003's ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye]]'' profile books retroactively dubbed these characters Targetmasters. Logically, the other partners not included in the series could be considered Targetmasters too, but have never officially been labeled as such.
|}

===Beast Wars===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Basics'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m1|[[Break]]}}
{{Bp-m1|[[Stampy (BWN)|Stampy]]}}
|
|[[File:BWN-toy Stampy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Stampy]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several of the ''Beast Wars Neo'' toys include third-mode weapon forms, which could be wielded by other toys.
|}

===Beast Machines===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2000]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m2|[[Dillo]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Mol]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Rav (BM)|Rav]]}}
|[[File:BeastMachinestoy-Mol.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Mol]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2003)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2003]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-p1|[[Chro]]<ref>Chro was called a Targetmaster in Cryotek's [http://botcon.com/archive/story/characters/cryotek.html BotCon online bio]. Chro is repurposed from Rav's blue deco.</ref>}}
|[[File:BM RavBlue-Chro-toy.jpg|upright=1.66|Chro the Raven, “Nevermore”.|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Collector's Edition===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Collector's Edition|Orion Pax]] (w/ [[Roller (G1)#Collector's Edition|Barrelroller]] and [[Dion (G1)#Collector's Edition|Dion]])}}
|[[File:Barrelroller g1.jpg|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2008)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys#Universe (2008)|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:UniverseCyclonusCorrected.JPG|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
A re-imagining of their original designs.
|}

===Gentei! Gentei!===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] with [[Rocketbot]]}}
|
|[[File:Henkei-toy Rocketbot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
[[Redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}

===Timelines (Shattered Glass)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-sa|[[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (SG)|Holepunch]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (SG)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] with [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-sd|[[Cyclonus (SG)|Cyclonus]] with [[Krunix (SG)|Krunix]]}}
|
|[[File:SGtoy-Cyclonus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Scoop, Crosshairs, Holepunch, Pinpointer and Nightstick are [[repurposing|repurposed]] toys from previous toylines. Cyclonus and Krunix are [[redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}
{{toystub}}

===United===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#United|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#United|Nightstick]] and [[Sparks#Toys|Sparks]])}}
|[[File:Unitedtoy-Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Targetmaster Microns'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Fracas]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Haywire]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Spoilsport]] (2011)}}
|
[[File:United-toy Recoil.jpg|Recoil|thumb|upright=1.66]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The ''[[Power Core Combiners]]'' [[Mini-Con]] molds are released as Targetmaster Microns in the Japanese toyline ''[[Transformers United]]''.<ref>[http://www.takaratomy.co.jp/products/TF/event/micron_01.html ''Transformers United'' official site]</ref>
|}

===Transformers (2010)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] (with [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]])}}
|
|[[File:Masterpiecetoy-Offshoot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The North American release of Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] comes with a "Limited Edition" Targetmaster partner named [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]].
|}

===Masterpiece===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#Masterpiece|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#Masterpiece|Nightstick]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#MP-40|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Masterpiece|Firebolt]])}}
|[[File:Masterpiece MP-37 Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Generations===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Thrilling 30''' (2013-2014)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)#Generations|Autobot Scoop]] (w/ [[Holepunch (G1)#Generations|Holepunch]] & [[Tracer (Targetmaster)#Generations|Caliburst]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Combiner Wars''' (2014-2016)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)#Combiner Wars|TFSS Spinister]] (w/ [[Hairsplitter#Combiner Wars|Shrute]] & [[Singe#Generations|Singe]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)#Generations|TFSS Needlenose]] (w/ [[Sunbeam (G1)#Combiner Wars|Sunbeam]] & [[Zigzag#Combiner Wars|Zputty]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''War for Cybertron Trilogy''' (2018-2020)
{{Bp-d1|[[Blowpipe (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Blowpipe]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Firebolt (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Firedrive]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Aimless (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skywarp (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron: Siege|Skywarp]] (w/ [[Fracas#War for Cybertron: Siege|Fracas]] & [[Hairsplitter#War for Cybertron: Siege|Shrute)]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Hotlink (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Hotlink]] (w/ [[Heartburn#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heartburn]] & [[Heatstroke#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heatstroke)]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Megatron (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Decepticon Megatron]] (w/ [[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Lionizer]] and [[Pinpointer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Pinpointer]])}}

|[[File:Scoop-deluxe-generations.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Scoop]]
</ul>
|}
{{main|Battle Master}}
{{groupstub}}
{{-}}

===Legends===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Legends|Firebolt]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Cher]] (w/ [[Recoil (G1)#Legends|Recoil]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Triggerhappy]] (w/ [[Blowpipe (G1)#Legends|Blowpipe]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Doublecross#Legends|Targetmaster Doublecross]] (w/ [[Haywire#Legends|Haywire]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Misfire]] (w/ [[Aimless (G1)#Legends|Aimless]])}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Slugslinger]] (w/ [[Caliburst (G1)#Legends|Caliburst]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Windblade (G1)#LG62|Targetmaster Windblade]] (w/ [[Pinpointer (G1)#Legends|Pointech]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Topspin (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Topspin]] (w/ [[Peacemaker#Legends|Peaceman]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Twin Twist#Legends|Targetmaster Twin Twist]] (w/ [[Spoilsport#Legends|Spoil]])}}
|[[File:TF-LG-45-Targetmaster-Rodimus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

==Notes==
===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Targetmaster''' (ターゲットマスター ''Tāgettomasutā'')
*''Hungarian:'' '''Célmester''' (Marvel Comics, "Targetmaster")

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising subgroups]]
[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising technology]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Generation 1 technology]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:The Headmasters subgroups]]
[[Category:The Headmasters technology]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass subgroups]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass technology]]
[[Category:Targetmasters| ]]
[[Category:Wings Universe subgroups]]
[[Category:Wings Universe technology]]

Targetmaster (technology)

2021-05-07T22:42:58Z

Warpshard: /* Beast Machines */ Adding Mol's name to the caption of his image

{{disambig3.5|the 1987 gimmick|the 2019 gimmick|Battle Master|Targetmaster}}
[[File:Desertislandofspace-targetmaster-rollcall.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cambot! Gypsy! Tom Servo! Croooooow!]]
The '''Targetmasters''' are a subset of Transformers [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] to smaller partners, who transform into their weapons. The partner is often an organic life form that has been bio-engineered to be partly mechanical, or wears a suit of armor that transforms around them to become the weapon.

The Targetmasters benefit from being able to take two minds into battle. A Targetmaster possesses a living weapon that is capable of making its own tactical decisions and target priorities. The advantage is similar to that of having a dedicated gunner aboard an aircraft or tank.

The Targetmaster process is often seen to follow shortly after development of the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] process. The earliest known Targetmasters were among the [[Autobot]]s and [[Decepticon]]s involved in the war on [[Nebulos]], and were paired with a bio-engineered [[Nebulan]] humanoid which wore a transforming exosuit. Later Targetmasters included virtually any Transformer specifically partnered with another being that becomes their weapon, not limited to Nebulans or organics. The term has been applied to the [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]] team<ref>[[Hasbro]]'s 1988 toy [[catalog]]</ref> and several [[Action Master]] pairings.<ref>''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]''</ref>

Some Transformers, known as '''Double-Targetmasters''', are bonded with two smaller partners who can form individual weapons or combine with one another to form a 'double weapon', with the power of whichever weapon forms the 'barrel' boosted by the other.

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics====
{{noteukonly}}
The first Targetmasters were a group of six Autobots under the command of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Fortress Maximus]]. Having traveled to the planet Nebulos in search of peace, this group surrendered their weapons to the natives to prove their peaceful intentions. {{storylink|Ring of Hate!}}

''Nebulon minds were duplicated and installed into transformable Nebulon-sized robots, creating the Targetmasters.'' {{storylink|The Final Conflict}}

{{note|This depiction of Targetmasters as robots with duplicated Nebulon minds and not actual Nebulons is unique to this story.}}

[[File:BrothersinArmor-Targetmasters.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4|Mouseketeer Roll Call! Cubby! Bobby! Gregor! Jimmy! Darlene! Annette!]]
Some time later, [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] and his Decepticon Headmaster partner [[Scorponok (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Scorponok]] had discredited the Autobots, turned public opinion against them, and driven them into retreat. A group of six Nebulan dissidents undertook a great risk to join the Autobots, allowing themselves to be bio-engineered into replacement weapons for the six unarmed Autobots. The Targetmasters became known as [[Peacemaker]], [[Spoilsport]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], [[Sparks]], and [[Haywire]].

The Autobot Targetmasters' first trial by combat came at the [[Nursery (Nebulos)|Nursery]], a horticultural research facility that was under threat by Zarak's Decepticons. The newly minted Targetmasters engaged Scorponok and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] in a battle for the Nursery, but retreated as the facility was being destroyed by the battle, regardless of who was winning.

[[File:Decepticon targetmasters brothers in armor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
[[Vorath]] was soon able to duplicate the Autobots' experiment, creating a group of five Decepticon Targetmasters, though they weren't quite a match for the Autobot Headmasters. All of the Targetmasters left Nebulos soon after, as the Autobots retreated to spare Nebulos further warfare, and the Decepticons pursued. {{storylink|Brothers in Armor!!}}

[[File:Pointblank worlds apart.jpg|thumb|left]]
''At some point before leaving Nebulos, the Decepticons captured [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]], [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] and took them back to their [[Fortress of Despair]], apparently because they couldn't perfect the Targetmaster process. After a brief skirmish with the Autobot Headmasters, they retreated and let the Autobots follow them...directly into a trap! It was not creating Targetmasters that Scorponok was struggling with, but Headmasters. Although [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] was able to release the Autobot Targetmasters, and with their partners [[Peacemaker]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], and [[Spoilsport]] they pretty much won the battle, Scorponok was able to escape with a captive [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] to study.'' {{storylink|Worlds Apart!}}

{{note|Only the eleven "large" Targetmasters are given an origin in the ''Headmasters'' mini-series, and there isn't a lot of room in the plot for others to have been made off-panel. Nevertheless, the [[The Transformers Universe|Marvel bios]] for several of the "small" (1988) Targetmasters imply they became Targetmasters at this time.}}

After arriving on [[Earth]], the Autobot Targetmasters subsequently went on a mission to rescue the human [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]] from the Decepticons. They were repulsed from the Decepticons' [[Club Con|island base]] by a phalanx of hidden weapons. {{storylink|The Desert Island of Space!}}

[[File:Nightstickwreckinghavoc.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
''Having left Scorponok's forces, [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] attempted to force their former leader [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] to hand over his [[time-jump trigger device]], backed up by their Targetmaster partners. When the meeting was interrupted by the [[Wrecker]]s and battle ensued, Springer attempted to relieve Cyclonus of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] but was taken aback when the gun transformed and ran away from him.'' {{storylink|Wrecking Havoc}}

[[File:Nightstickcrushed.jpg|thumb|left|100px]]
''Nightstick would not prove to be nearly so fortunate when Cyclonus and Scourge attempted to forge an alliance with the current [[Decepticon leader]] [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]]. When negotiations went badly, Shockwave sent a [[Straxus (G1)|clone]] of [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] to kill Cyclonus and crush his gun.'' {{storylink|Dry Run!}}

''[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], along with [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] and [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], led an attack on an Autobot [[Ark shuttlecraft|shuttle]] to retrieve Scorponok's head from Highbrow, but once he had been reassembled they were spirited away to [[Limbo]] to make way for [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] from the future. Meanwhile, Scourge and [[Fracas]] were fighting alongside Galvatron and the Megatron clone against the Wreckers and [[Mayhem Attack Squad|Mayhems]]. Ultimately the present-day Targetmasters reappeared when Soundwave returned his troops to their own time, but Cyclonus and Scourge vanished into the [[time rift]].'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}

Additional Targetmasters may or may not have been created as the war went on. [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] and [[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] were both seen using weapons resembling their Targetmaster partners, but their individual circumstances do not seem to easily allow for them to have been on Nebulos to acquire Targetmaster partners. {{storylink|Yesterday's Heroes!}}

Recoil was among the weapons surrendered by the Autobots to the Decepticons as part of preparation for an alliance against [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]]. {{storylink|Surrender!}}
{{-}}

====Marvel UK future timelines====
[[File:Targetmaster-nomore.jpg|thumb|Hot Rod is no longer a Targetmaster as he mourns Firebolt's death.]]
In the year [[2007]], Autobot leader [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] reminisced about the war; on Nebulos where he first teamed up with his Targetmaster partner [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]] and later, on Earth, when Firebolt died under unspecified circumstances. {{storylink|Headhunt}}
{{-}}

====Earthforce====
{{earthforcefiction}}
[[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]] noted the double-paired Targetmasters known as Double-Targetmasters among his list of complaints about how complicated things had gotten in his absence. {{storylink|Starting Over!}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
The Targetmaster process was developed eons ago on Cybertron, as a process to forge a warrior and his weapon into a cohesive fighting team. The two are linked on a mental and physical level, allowing them to draw energy from each other and multitask with extreme efficiency. Targetmaster weapons cannot be wielded by another being without their consent unless they are somehow incapacitated in their weapon configuration. Severe injury or death of one partner can have a profound physical and emotional impact on the other.

The Targetmaster process was further expanded upon on the planet Nebulon. This would allow organic humanoids, not just mechanoids, to function as weapons when adorned with removable armor. The strength and endurance of these modified beings were greatly enhanced, though their appearance does not change. {{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye issue 8}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====American cartoon continuity====
[[File:Targetmasters.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Here's me, and here's my gun!]]
The creation of Targetmasters and [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], in this continuity, started with an initial idea of Brainstorm's that Autobots should use [[human]] partners while driving to help with steering and speed, this idea was confirmed when a race between [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]] and [[Blurr (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blurr]] was won not by Blurr's speed, but by [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]]'s help in driving Hot Rod. [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], however, was very sceptical about this idea.

After a large scale Decepticon attack, several Autobots, [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike]], and Daniel crash-landed on [[Nebulos]]; where the Autobots were taken captive by the inhabitants. After a Decepticon attack in which Daniel Witwicky was injured and put on life support, several Autobots were kidnapped by Decepticons.

The Nebulan warriors explained their situation with the [[Hive (G1)|Hive]] to the Autobots, and why they didn't trust them at first, and came to an agreement. Using Brainstorm's idea, they would use their and Daniel's minds with the Autobots' bodies to be powerful enough to defeat the Hive and save the others. Thus were born the Headmasters. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 1}}

Once the Headmasters got to know their partners, they set off to rescue the five captured captured Autobots. After some torture, Hot Rod, [[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]], Blurr, [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] were all saved by the Headmasters.

After witnessing the power of secondary operators, the Decepticons and other Autobots saw the logic in having some of their own.

The defeated Decepticons were captured by the hive and taken to their underground base of operations. [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]], the leader of the hive gave the Decepticons an opportunity to become powerful like the Autobot Headmasters at the literal cost of their heads. [[Cyclonus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Scourge]] agreed to let the Nebulans make Headmasters only out of the Decepticons there with beast modes, they however would only let the organic beings into their weapons. So [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]], [[Apeface]], [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]], [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]], and [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] were turned into Headmasters, [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]], [[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], Scourge, and Cyclonus had their weapons modified so that hive members could fit into and transform into them.

[[File:Cyclonus tm.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|*ptew ptew*]]
[[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], meanwhile had found a city and told the news to the other Autobots, damaging himself in the process. The Nebulans fixed him and believed the city he talked about to be the hive's old base from before they moved underground. The Decepticons, now with their Nebulan partners, attacked the Autobots again. Brainstorm was mad that the Decepticons stole his idea, the Head and Targetmasters and the Decepticons overwhelmed the Autobots and stole the key to the plasma energy chamber from them before the hive convinced the Decepticons to go back to Zarak to await orders.

[[File:Rebirth2 Blurr with gun.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.1|"Haywire you're grey and black, now stop looking like my old gun."
"Aww, but this model is so much nicer."]]
Brainstorm, to even the odds, showed his fellow Autobots scans of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]], showing how the Decepticons modified their guns and used the Nebulan tech to modify the non-Headmaster Autobot's guns and have Nebulan partners inside them. Hot Rod, Kup, Blurr, Crosshairs, Pointblank, and [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]]'s guns were modified and became the Autobot Targetmasters.

[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] then showed up on Nebulos and was introduced to the Autobot's Headmaster and Targetmaster partners. He was also informed that the Decepticons also had access to the same technology and the key to the plasma energy chamber. The Autobots went to the Decepticons to fight but they and their Nebulan partners had nearly completed their project. The Decepticons engaged the Autobots in combat but were surprised to see that the Autobots now had Targetmaster partners too.

The Autobots, however, were much more surprised to see that Zarak had created something big using the same Headmaster technology both factions had: [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 2}} {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 3}}
{{-}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
[[File:Tf headmaster 29 pointblank target on.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|FIRE IN THE HOLE!]]
In Japanese continuities, Targetmaster partners hail from the planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], but unlike the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] they are partnered with a regular Transformer as opposed to a [[Transtector]]. This fusion came about in a blast which binary-bonded a group of refugees from Master to the arms of the new Autobot recruits, as well as the Decepticon marauders, who were terrorizing the refugees in the first place. Unlike in the U.S. continuity and toys, when the Masters transform into gun mode, they take the place of their larger partner's entire hand instead of being held by it.

[[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]] and [[Artfire]] have Targetmasters, even though they were not present for the explosion. The Japanese Targetmasters speak in a series of electronic beeps (like the [[Mini-Con]]s) that only their bonded partner can understand, instead of speaking normally like their Headmaster brethren.
{{-}}

====''Wings Universe''====
{{wingsnote}}
[[Tornado]] was a Targetmaster, usually wielded by his [[Squadron X]] leader [[Macabre]] and later [[Ferak]]. {{storylink|Tornado - Decepticon Saboteur|Torando - Decepticon Saboteur, 2014/06/10}}

Following the [[Great Transformation]], [[Flareup (G1)|Flareup]] found herself stationed at [[New Polyhex]], where she became a star pupil while training under the ancient and enigmatic Target Masters before being recruited into the [[Cybertronian Knight]]s. {{storylink|Flareup (G1)#BotCon2014|BotCon 2014 Knight Flareup profile card}}

===''Shattered Glass''===
[[File:Crosshairs SG.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb]]
In this reverse universe, the Targetmasters take a much more active role in battle: they can take all motor control over the limb of whoever is holding them. The small partners are [[Micromaster]]s with three modes: robot, vehicle, and weapon.

[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] devised a plan to keep the Decepticons stranded on Cybertron while the Autobots fled to Earth. To execute this plan, he, [[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]], and [[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] took Targetmaster partners. [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]] was easily able to take down Megatron, but the Decepticon Micromasters were able to thwart the entire group of Targetmasters, allowing Megatron to free himself. {{storylink|Do Over}}

===''TransTech''===
After a bad experience with "colonists" from the [[Aurex]] Cluster, Nebulos made their atmosphere poisonous to Cybertronian life. In order to safely go undercover on this world, [[Vector Prime]] was binary bonded with [[Safeguard (TransTech)|Safeguard]], a friendly native. In addition to processing Vector Prime's fuel, he could also become a handheld weapon, making him a Target/Powermaster. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/11/01}}

===''Beast Wars: Uprising''===
Targetmaster technology was first created in the 21st century, by the Nebulans [[Teslor]] and [[Arcana]], as an enhancement to the already-existing Headmaster technology. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}} The process involved the subjects mingling their sparks, granting both a dramatic boost in power, such as being able to shoot down ships from orbit. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}} The technology gave the Autobots a temporary advantage in the war for Nebulos, until [[Fracas]] and [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] defected to the Decepticons, taking the Targetmaster process with them.

When the war spread to the planet [[Master (planet)|Rebirth]], the [[Malignus (G1)|Malignus]] scientist [[Nucleon (Generations)|Nucleon]] adapted the process to work with Cyberdroid physiology. Along with the Powermaster and Headmaster technology, it was used to create the [[Triple-Threat Master]] technology as well. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}}

Towards the end of the war, the mad Decepticon [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] found out the Targetmasters' ability to draw power from their wielder's Sparks could be amplified, and took the ability to its conclusion: being able to draw the life out of a Cybertronian just being near them. Terrified by this discovery, Autobots and Decepticons alike arranged for the Targetmasters, organic and Cybertronian alike, to be granted exile when the war ended. However, this was a ruse, and both sides arranged for the mass murder of all Targetmasters to prevent their powers being used ever again. The systematic eradication was later dubbed the "[[Targetmaster Extirpation]]". However, a few Targetmasters did survive, and went into hiding on a Cybertron now utterly hostile to their kind.

In the 24th century, one of the last Targetmasters, [[Twirl (G1)|Twirl]], was killed by [[Overrun]] when she considered outing herself. This sequence of events led to Overrun himself dying to prevent anyone else getting their hands on him. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1987]])
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[Haywire]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Hot Rod]] with [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] with [[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Pointblank]] with [[Peacemaker]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[Spoilsport]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Crosshairs.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Crosshairs]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Autobot Targetmasters were sold boxed with their Targetmaster partners, and consisted of three all-new molds alongside slightly retooled versions of Hot Rod, Kup, and Blurr from the previous year's assortment. The three older molds featured enlarged fist holes, allowing them to hold their new weapons. Both old and new molds transform into futuristic/Cybertronian ground vehicles. All six can mount their Targetmaster weapon on their roof or hood while in vehicle mode.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]] with [[Aimless (G1)|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[Fracas]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] with [[Blowpipe (G1)|Blowpipe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Misfire.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Misfire]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Similar to their Autobot counterparts, the Decepticon Targetmasters feature three new jet molds alongside retooled versions of Cyclonus and Scourge with enlarged fist holes. All five transform into futuristic/Cybertronian aircraft. Their weapons can be mounted on top of them in jet form. The three newer molds were also sold in 1988.
|}

{{anchor|JapaneseTargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Japanese-original Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Stepper ([[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]]) with [[Nebulon (Headmasters)|Nebulon]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire]] with [[Nightstick (Headmasters)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Stepper.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Stepper]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Artfire and Ricochet are [[redeco]]s and [[retool]]ings of the original toys for [[Inferno (G1)#Toys|Inferno]] and [[Jazz (G1)/toys#Generation 1|Jazz]], respectively. They each come with the Targetmaster partner molds that were used as Fracas and Nightstick in the US.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1988]])
{{anchor|doubletargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] with [[Flintlock]] and [[Silencer (G1)|Silencer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] with [[Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (G1)|Ricochet]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Targetmaster)|Tracer]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Landfill.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nebulan-on-Nebulan action!]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Often referred to as the "small Targetmasters" to distinguish them from the larger 1987 releases, these toys were sold carded. Each toy includes two smaller Targetmaster partners, each of which can form a gun or combine together as a larger gun. The two guns can also mount on the robot's vehicle form. The three Autobots share a construction vehicle theme. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] with [[Sunbeam (G1)|Sunbeam]] and [[Zigzag]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Quake (G1)|Quake]] with [[Tiptop]] and [[Heater]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] with [[Hairsplitter]] and [[Singe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Quake.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Quake]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Decepticon "small Targetmasters" were sold carded with two Targetmaster partners each. Like the 1988 Autobots, these partners can form independent or combined weapons, and mount on their partner Transformers' vehicle forms or be wielded by them in robot mode. The three Transformers all turn into military vehicles. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{{anchor|seacons}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Seacons'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Nautilator]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skalor]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]]}}
|
|[[File:Nautilatorg1toy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nautilator]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Seacons are a [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1986 (Scramble City and 2010)|Scramble City]]-style combiner team, with [[Snaptrap (G1)|a large leader toy]] who forms the torso of a larger robot, with four smaller toys plugging in to form the limbs. The team was given an additional fifth small toy, however. All five small toys have a "weapon" mode—essentially their creature mode with a gun barrel attached—allowing any of them to be used by the combined robot as a Targetmaster weapon. Each small toy could also form a free-standing gun by attaching to a small stand included with the toy.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1990]])
{{anchor|actionmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Action Masters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[Razor-Sharp]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Jackpot (G1)|Jackpot]] with [[Sights (G1)|Sights]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Krok (G1)|Krok]] with [[Gatoraider]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[Push-Button]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Rad (G1)|Rad]] with [[Lionizer (G1)|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Rollout (G1)|Rollout]] with [[Glitch (G1)|Glitch]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[Top-Heavy]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[Catgut]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy PushButton.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Push-Button]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several [[Action Master]] figures include robotic partners who transform into weapons for the robot's use. Though not labeled as such at the time, 2003's ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye]]'' profile books retroactively dubbed these characters Targetmasters. Logically, the other partners not included in the series could be considered Targetmasters too, but have never officially been labeled as such.
|}

===Beast Wars===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Basics'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m1|[[Break]]}}
{{Bp-m1|[[Stampy (BWN)|Stampy]]}}
|
|[[File:BWN-toy Stampy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Stampy]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several of the ''Beast Wars Neo'' toys include third-mode weapon forms, which could be wielded by other toys.
|}

===Beast Machines===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2000]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m2|[[Dillo]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Mol]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Rav (BM)|Rav]]}}
|[[File:BeastMachinestoy-Mol.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Mol]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2003)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2003]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-p1|[[Chro]]<ref>Chro was called a Targetmaster in Cryotek's [http://botcon.com/archive/story/characters/cryotek.html BotCon online bio]. Chro is repurposed from Rav's blue deco.</ref>}}
|[[File:BM RavBlue-Chro-toy.jpg|upright=1.66|Chro the Raven, “Nevermore”.|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Collector's Edition===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Collector's Edition|Orion Pax]] (w/ [[Roller (G1)#Collector's Edition|Barrelroller]] and [[Dion (G1)#Collector's Edition|Dion]])}}
|[[File:Barrelroller g1.jpg|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2008)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys#Universe (2008)|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:UniverseCyclonusCorrected.JPG|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
A re-imagining of their original designs.
|}

===Gentei! Gentei!===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] with [[Rocketbot]]}}
|
|[[File:Henkei-toy Rocketbot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
[[Redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}

===Timelines (Shattered Glass)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-sa|[[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (SG)|Holepunch]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (SG)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] with [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-sd|[[Cyclonus (SG)|Cyclonus]] with [[Krunix (SG)|Krunix]]}}
|
|[[File:SGtoy-Cyclonus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Scoop, Crosshairs, Holepunch, Pinpointer and Nightstick are [[repurposing|repurposed]] toys from previous toylines. Cyclonus and Krunix are [[redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}
{{toystub}}

===United===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#United|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#United|Nightstick]] and [[Sparks#Toys|Sparks]])}}
|[[File:Unitedtoy-Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Targetmaster Microns'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Fracas]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Haywire]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Spoilsport]] (2011)}}
|
[[File:United-toy Recoil.jpg|Recoil|thumb|upright=1.66]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The ''[[Power Core Combiners]]'' [[Mini-Con]] molds are released as Targetmaster Microns in the Japanese toyline ''[[Transformers United]]''.<ref>[http://www.takaratomy.co.jp/products/TF/event/micron_01.html ''Transformers United'' official site]</ref>
|}

===Transformers (2010)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] (with [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]])}}
|
|[[File:Masterpiecetoy-Offshoot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The North American release of Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] comes with a "Limited Edition" Targetmaster partner named [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]].
|}

===Masterpiece===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#Masterpiece|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#Masterpiece|Nightstick]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#MP-40|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Masterpiece|Firebolt]])}}
|[[File:Masterpiece MP-37 Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Generations===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Thrilling 30''' (2013-2014)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)#Generations|Autobot Scoop]] (w/ [[Holepunch (G1)#Generations|Holepunch]] & [[Tracer (Targetmaster)#Generations|Caliburst]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Combiner Wars''' (2014-2016)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)#Combiner Wars|TFSS Spinister]] (w/ [[Hairsplitter#Combiner Wars|Shrute]] & [[Singe#Generations|Singe]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)#Generations|TFSS Needlenose]] (w/ [[Sunbeam (G1)#Combiner Wars|Sunbeam]] & [[Zigzag#Combiner Wars|Zputty]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''War for Cybertron Trilogy''' (2018-2020)
{{Bp-d1|[[Blowpipe (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Blowpipe]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Firebolt (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Firedrive]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Aimless (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skywarp (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron: Siege|Skywarp]] (w/ [[Fracas#War for Cybertron: Siege|Fracas]] & [[Hairsplitter#War for Cybertron: Siege|Shrute)]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Hotlink (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Hotlink]] (w/ [[Heartburn#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heartburn]] & [[Heatstroke#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heatstroke)]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Megatron (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Decepticon Megatron]] (w/ [[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Lionizer]] and [[Pinpointer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Pinpointer]])}}

|[[File:Scoop-deluxe-generations.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{main|Battle Master}}
{{groupstub}}
{{-}}

===Legends===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Legends|Firebolt]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Cher]] (w/ [[Recoil (G1)#Legends|Recoil]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Triggerhappy]] (w/ [[Blowpipe (G1)#Legends|Blowpipe]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Doublecross#Legends|Targetmaster Doublecross]] (w/ [[Haywire#Legends|Haywire]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Misfire]] (w/ [[Aimless (G1)#Legends|Aimless]])}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Slugslinger]] (w/ [[Caliburst (G1)#Legends|Caliburst]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Windblade (G1)#LG62|Targetmaster Windblade]] (w/ [[Pinpointer (G1)#Legends|Pointech]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Topspin (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Topspin]] (w/ [[Peacemaker#Legends|Peaceman]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Twin Twist#Legends|Targetmaster Twin Twist]] (w/ [[Spoilsport#Legends|Spoil]])}}
|[[File:TF-LG-45-Targetmaster-Rodimus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

==Notes==
===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Targetmaster''' (ターゲットマスター ''Tāgettomasutā'')
*''Hungarian:'' '''Célmester''' (Marvel Comics, "Targetmaster")

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising subgroups]]
[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising technology]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Generation 1 technology]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:The Headmasters subgroups]]
[[Category:The Headmasters technology]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass subgroups]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass technology]]
[[Category:Targetmasters| ]]
[[Category:Wings Universe subgroups]]
[[Category:Wings Universe technology]]

Targetmaster (technology)

2021-05-07T22:42:26Z

Warpshard: /* Beast Wars */ Adding Stampy's name to the caption of his picture

{{disambig3.5|the 1987 gimmick|the 2019 gimmick|Battle Master|Targetmaster}}
[[File:Desertislandofspace-targetmaster-rollcall.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cambot! Gypsy! Tom Servo! Croooooow!]]
The '''Targetmasters''' are a subset of Transformers [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] to smaller partners, who transform into their weapons. The partner is often an organic life form that has been bio-engineered to be partly mechanical, or wears a suit of armor that transforms around them to become the weapon.

The Targetmasters benefit from being able to take two minds into battle. A Targetmaster possesses a living weapon that is capable of making its own tactical decisions and target priorities. The advantage is similar to that of having a dedicated gunner aboard an aircraft or tank.

The Targetmaster process is often seen to follow shortly after development of the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] process. The earliest known Targetmasters were among the [[Autobot]]s and [[Decepticon]]s involved in the war on [[Nebulos]], and were paired with a bio-engineered [[Nebulan]] humanoid which wore a transforming exosuit. Later Targetmasters included virtually any Transformer specifically partnered with another being that becomes their weapon, not limited to Nebulans or organics. The term has been applied to the [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]] team<ref>[[Hasbro]]'s 1988 toy [[catalog]]</ref> and several [[Action Master]] pairings.<ref>''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]''</ref>

Some Transformers, known as '''Double-Targetmasters''', are bonded with two smaller partners who can form individual weapons or combine with one another to form a 'double weapon', with the power of whichever weapon forms the 'barrel' boosted by the other.

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics====
{{noteukonly}}
The first Targetmasters were a group of six Autobots under the command of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Fortress Maximus]]. Having traveled to the planet Nebulos in search of peace, this group surrendered their weapons to the natives to prove their peaceful intentions. {{storylink|Ring of Hate!}}

''Nebulon minds were duplicated and installed into transformable Nebulon-sized robots, creating the Targetmasters.'' {{storylink|The Final Conflict}}

{{note|This depiction of Targetmasters as robots with duplicated Nebulon minds and not actual Nebulons is unique to this story.}}

[[File:BrothersinArmor-Targetmasters.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4|Mouseketeer Roll Call! Cubby! Bobby! Gregor! Jimmy! Darlene! Annette!]]
Some time later, [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] and his Decepticon Headmaster partner [[Scorponok (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Scorponok]] had discredited the Autobots, turned public opinion against them, and driven them into retreat. A group of six Nebulan dissidents undertook a great risk to join the Autobots, allowing themselves to be bio-engineered into replacement weapons for the six unarmed Autobots. The Targetmasters became known as [[Peacemaker]], [[Spoilsport]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], [[Sparks]], and [[Haywire]].

The Autobot Targetmasters' first trial by combat came at the [[Nursery (Nebulos)|Nursery]], a horticultural research facility that was under threat by Zarak's Decepticons. The newly minted Targetmasters engaged Scorponok and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] in a battle for the Nursery, but retreated as the facility was being destroyed by the battle, regardless of who was winning.

[[File:Decepticon targetmasters brothers in armor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
[[Vorath]] was soon able to duplicate the Autobots' experiment, creating a group of five Decepticon Targetmasters, though they weren't quite a match for the Autobot Headmasters. All of the Targetmasters left Nebulos soon after, as the Autobots retreated to spare Nebulos further warfare, and the Decepticons pursued. {{storylink|Brothers in Armor!!}}

[[File:Pointblank worlds apart.jpg|thumb|left]]
''At some point before leaving Nebulos, the Decepticons captured [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]], [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] and took them back to their [[Fortress of Despair]], apparently because they couldn't perfect the Targetmaster process. After a brief skirmish with the Autobot Headmasters, they retreated and let the Autobots follow them...directly into a trap! It was not creating Targetmasters that Scorponok was struggling with, but Headmasters. Although [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] was able to release the Autobot Targetmasters, and with their partners [[Peacemaker]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], and [[Spoilsport]] they pretty much won the battle, Scorponok was able to escape with a captive [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] to study.'' {{storylink|Worlds Apart!}}

{{note|Only the eleven "large" Targetmasters are given an origin in the ''Headmasters'' mini-series, and there isn't a lot of room in the plot for others to have been made off-panel. Nevertheless, the [[The Transformers Universe|Marvel bios]] for several of the "small" (1988) Targetmasters imply they became Targetmasters at this time.}}

After arriving on [[Earth]], the Autobot Targetmasters subsequently went on a mission to rescue the human [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]] from the Decepticons. They were repulsed from the Decepticons' [[Club Con|island base]] by a phalanx of hidden weapons. {{storylink|The Desert Island of Space!}}

[[File:Nightstickwreckinghavoc.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
''Having left Scorponok's forces, [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] attempted to force their former leader [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] to hand over his [[time-jump trigger device]], backed up by their Targetmaster partners. When the meeting was interrupted by the [[Wrecker]]s and battle ensued, Springer attempted to relieve Cyclonus of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] but was taken aback when the gun transformed and ran away from him.'' {{storylink|Wrecking Havoc}}

[[File:Nightstickcrushed.jpg|thumb|left|100px]]
''Nightstick would not prove to be nearly so fortunate when Cyclonus and Scourge attempted to forge an alliance with the current [[Decepticon leader]] [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]]. When negotiations went badly, Shockwave sent a [[Straxus (G1)|clone]] of [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] to kill Cyclonus and crush his gun.'' {{storylink|Dry Run!}}

''[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], along with [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] and [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], led an attack on an Autobot [[Ark shuttlecraft|shuttle]] to retrieve Scorponok's head from Highbrow, but once he had been reassembled they were spirited away to [[Limbo]] to make way for [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] from the future. Meanwhile, Scourge and [[Fracas]] were fighting alongside Galvatron and the Megatron clone against the Wreckers and [[Mayhem Attack Squad|Mayhems]]. Ultimately the present-day Targetmasters reappeared when Soundwave returned his troops to their own time, but Cyclonus and Scourge vanished into the [[time rift]].'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}

Additional Targetmasters may or may not have been created as the war went on. [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] and [[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] were both seen using weapons resembling their Targetmaster partners, but their individual circumstances do not seem to easily allow for them to have been on Nebulos to acquire Targetmaster partners. {{storylink|Yesterday's Heroes!}}

Recoil was among the weapons surrendered by the Autobots to the Decepticons as part of preparation for an alliance against [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]]. {{storylink|Surrender!}}
{{-}}

====Marvel UK future timelines====
[[File:Targetmaster-nomore.jpg|thumb|Hot Rod is no longer a Targetmaster as he mourns Firebolt's death.]]
In the year [[2007]], Autobot leader [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] reminisced about the war; on Nebulos where he first teamed up with his Targetmaster partner [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]] and later, on Earth, when Firebolt died under unspecified circumstances. {{storylink|Headhunt}}
{{-}}

====Earthforce====
{{earthforcefiction}}
[[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]] noted the double-paired Targetmasters known as Double-Targetmasters among his list of complaints about how complicated things had gotten in his absence. {{storylink|Starting Over!}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
The Targetmaster process was developed eons ago on Cybertron, as a process to forge a warrior and his weapon into a cohesive fighting team. The two are linked on a mental and physical level, allowing them to draw energy from each other and multitask with extreme efficiency. Targetmaster weapons cannot be wielded by another being without their consent unless they are somehow incapacitated in their weapon configuration. Severe injury or death of one partner can have a profound physical and emotional impact on the other.

The Targetmaster process was further expanded upon on the planet Nebulon. This would allow organic humanoids, not just mechanoids, to function as weapons when adorned with removable armor. The strength and endurance of these modified beings were greatly enhanced, though their appearance does not change. {{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye issue 8}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====American cartoon continuity====
[[File:Targetmasters.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Here's me, and here's my gun!]]
The creation of Targetmasters and [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], in this continuity, started with an initial idea of Brainstorm's that Autobots should use [[human]] partners while driving to help with steering and speed, this idea was confirmed when a race between [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]] and [[Blurr (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blurr]] was won not by Blurr's speed, but by [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]]'s help in driving Hot Rod. [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], however, was very sceptical about this idea.

After a large scale Decepticon attack, several Autobots, [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike]], and Daniel crash-landed on [[Nebulos]]; where the Autobots were taken captive by the inhabitants. After a Decepticon attack in which Daniel Witwicky was injured and put on life support, several Autobots were kidnapped by Decepticons.

The Nebulan warriors explained their situation with the [[Hive (G1)|Hive]] to the Autobots, and why they didn't trust them at first, and came to an agreement. Using Brainstorm's idea, they would use their and Daniel's minds with the Autobots' bodies to be powerful enough to defeat the Hive and save the others. Thus were born the Headmasters. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 1}}

Once the Headmasters got to know their partners, they set off to rescue the five captured captured Autobots. After some torture, Hot Rod, [[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]], Blurr, [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] were all saved by the Headmasters.

After witnessing the power of secondary operators, the Decepticons and other Autobots saw the logic in having some of their own.

The defeated Decepticons were captured by the hive and taken to their underground base of operations. [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]], the leader of the hive gave the Decepticons an opportunity to become powerful like the Autobot Headmasters at the literal cost of their heads. [[Cyclonus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Scourge]] agreed to let the Nebulans make Headmasters only out of the Decepticons there with beast modes, they however would only let the organic beings into their weapons. So [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]], [[Apeface]], [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]], [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]], and [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] were turned into Headmasters, [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]], [[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], Scourge, and Cyclonus had their weapons modified so that hive members could fit into and transform into them.

[[File:Cyclonus tm.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|*ptew ptew*]]
[[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], meanwhile had found a city and told the news to the other Autobots, damaging himself in the process. The Nebulans fixed him and believed the city he talked about to be the hive's old base from before they moved underground. The Decepticons, now with their Nebulan partners, attacked the Autobots again. Brainstorm was mad that the Decepticons stole his idea, the Head and Targetmasters and the Decepticons overwhelmed the Autobots and stole the key to the plasma energy chamber from them before the hive convinced the Decepticons to go back to Zarak to await orders.

[[File:Rebirth2 Blurr with gun.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.1|"Haywire you're grey and black, now stop looking like my old gun."
"Aww, but this model is so much nicer."]]
Brainstorm, to even the odds, showed his fellow Autobots scans of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]], showing how the Decepticons modified their guns and used the Nebulan tech to modify the non-Headmaster Autobot's guns and have Nebulan partners inside them. Hot Rod, Kup, Blurr, Crosshairs, Pointblank, and [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]]'s guns were modified and became the Autobot Targetmasters.

[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] then showed up on Nebulos and was introduced to the Autobot's Headmaster and Targetmaster partners. He was also informed that the Decepticons also had access to the same technology and the key to the plasma energy chamber. The Autobots went to the Decepticons to fight but they and their Nebulan partners had nearly completed their project. The Decepticons engaged the Autobots in combat but were surprised to see that the Autobots now had Targetmaster partners too.

The Autobots, however, were much more surprised to see that Zarak had created something big using the same Headmaster technology both factions had: [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 2}} {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 3}}
{{-}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
[[File:Tf headmaster 29 pointblank target on.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|FIRE IN THE HOLE!]]
In Japanese continuities, Targetmaster partners hail from the planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], but unlike the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] they are partnered with a regular Transformer as opposed to a [[Transtector]]. This fusion came about in a blast which binary-bonded a group of refugees from Master to the arms of the new Autobot recruits, as well as the Decepticon marauders, who were terrorizing the refugees in the first place. Unlike in the U.S. continuity and toys, when the Masters transform into gun mode, they take the place of their larger partner's entire hand instead of being held by it.

[[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]] and [[Artfire]] have Targetmasters, even though they were not present for the explosion. The Japanese Targetmasters speak in a series of electronic beeps (like the [[Mini-Con]]s) that only their bonded partner can understand, instead of speaking normally like their Headmaster brethren.
{{-}}

====''Wings Universe''====
{{wingsnote}}
[[Tornado]] was a Targetmaster, usually wielded by his [[Squadron X]] leader [[Macabre]] and later [[Ferak]]. {{storylink|Tornado - Decepticon Saboteur|Torando - Decepticon Saboteur, 2014/06/10}}

Following the [[Great Transformation]], [[Flareup (G1)|Flareup]] found herself stationed at [[New Polyhex]], where she became a star pupil while training under the ancient and enigmatic Target Masters before being recruited into the [[Cybertronian Knight]]s. {{storylink|Flareup (G1)#BotCon2014|BotCon 2014 Knight Flareup profile card}}

===''Shattered Glass''===
[[File:Crosshairs SG.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb]]
In this reverse universe, the Targetmasters take a much more active role in battle: they can take all motor control over the limb of whoever is holding them. The small partners are [[Micromaster]]s with three modes: robot, vehicle, and weapon.

[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] devised a plan to keep the Decepticons stranded on Cybertron while the Autobots fled to Earth. To execute this plan, he, [[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]], and [[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] took Targetmaster partners. [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]] was easily able to take down Megatron, but the Decepticon Micromasters were able to thwart the entire group of Targetmasters, allowing Megatron to free himself. {{storylink|Do Over}}

===''TransTech''===
After a bad experience with "colonists" from the [[Aurex]] Cluster, Nebulos made their atmosphere poisonous to Cybertronian life. In order to safely go undercover on this world, [[Vector Prime]] was binary bonded with [[Safeguard (TransTech)|Safeguard]], a friendly native. In addition to processing Vector Prime's fuel, he could also become a handheld weapon, making him a Target/Powermaster. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/11/01}}

===''Beast Wars: Uprising''===
Targetmaster technology was first created in the 21st century, by the Nebulans [[Teslor]] and [[Arcana]], as an enhancement to the already-existing Headmaster technology. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}} The process involved the subjects mingling their sparks, granting both a dramatic boost in power, such as being able to shoot down ships from orbit. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}} The technology gave the Autobots a temporary advantage in the war for Nebulos, until [[Fracas]] and [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] defected to the Decepticons, taking the Targetmaster process with them.

When the war spread to the planet [[Master (planet)|Rebirth]], the [[Malignus (G1)|Malignus]] scientist [[Nucleon (Generations)|Nucleon]] adapted the process to work with Cyberdroid physiology. Along with the Powermaster and Headmaster technology, it was used to create the [[Triple-Threat Master]] technology as well. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}}

Towards the end of the war, the mad Decepticon [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] found out the Targetmasters' ability to draw power from their wielder's Sparks could be amplified, and took the ability to its conclusion: being able to draw the life out of a Cybertronian just being near them. Terrified by this discovery, Autobots and Decepticons alike arranged for the Targetmasters, organic and Cybertronian alike, to be granted exile when the war ended. However, this was a ruse, and both sides arranged for the mass murder of all Targetmasters to prevent their powers being used ever again. The systematic eradication was later dubbed the "[[Targetmaster Extirpation]]". However, a few Targetmasters did survive, and went into hiding on a Cybertron now utterly hostile to their kind.

In the 24th century, one of the last Targetmasters, [[Twirl (G1)|Twirl]], was killed by [[Overrun]] when she considered outing herself. This sequence of events led to Overrun himself dying to prevent anyone else getting their hands on him. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1987]])
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[Haywire]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Hot Rod]] with [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] with [[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Pointblank]] with [[Peacemaker]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[Spoilsport]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Crosshairs.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Crosshairs]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Autobot Targetmasters were sold boxed with their Targetmaster partners, and consisted of three all-new molds alongside slightly retooled versions of Hot Rod, Kup, and Blurr from the previous year's assortment. The three older molds featured enlarged fist holes, allowing them to hold their new weapons. Both old and new molds transform into futuristic/Cybertronian ground vehicles. All six can mount their Targetmaster weapon on their roof or hood while in vehicle mode.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]] with [[Aimless (G1)|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[Fracas]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] with [[Blowpipe (G1)|Blowpipe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Misfire.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Misfire]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Similar to their Autobot counterparts, the Decepticon Targetmasters feature three new jet molds alongside retooled versions of Cyclonus and Scourge with enlarged fist holes. All five transform into futuristic/Cybertronian aircraft. Their weapons can be mounted on top of them in jet form. The three newer molds were also sold in 1988.
|}

{{anchor|JapaneseTargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Japanese-original Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Stepper ([[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]]) with [[Nebulon (Headmasters)|Nebulon]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire]] with [[Nightstick (Headmasters)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Stepper.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Stepper]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Artfire and Ricochet are [[redeco]]s and [[retool]]ings of the original toys for [[Inferno (G1)#Toys|Inferno]] and [[Jazz (G1)/toys#Generation 1|Jazz]], respectively. They each come with the Targetmaster partner molds that were used as Fracas and Nightstick in the US.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1988]])
{{anchor|doubletargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] with [[Flintlock]] and [[Silencer (G1)|Silencer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] with [[Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (G1)|Ricochet]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Targetmaster)|Tracer]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Landfill.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nebulan-on-Nebulan action!]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Often referred to as the "small Targetmasters" to distinguish them from the larger 1987 releases, these toys were sold carded. Each toy includes two smaller Targetmaster partners, each of which can form a gun or combine together as a larger gun. The two guns can also mount on the robot's vehicle form. The three Autobots share a construction vehicle theme. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] with [[Sunbeam (G1)|Sunbeam]] and [[Zigzag]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Quake (G1)|Quake]] with [[Tiptop]] and [[Heater]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] with [[Hairsplitter]] and [[Singe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Quake.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Quake]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Decepticon "small Targetmasters" were sold carded with two Targetmaster partners each. Like the 1988 Autobots, these partners can form independent or combined weapons, and mount on their partner Transformers' vehicle forms or be wielded by them in robot mode. The three Transformers all turn into military vehicles. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{{anchor|seacons}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Seacons'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Nautilator]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skalor]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]]}}
|
|[[File:Nautilatorg1toy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nautilator]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Seacons are a [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1986 (Scramble City and 2010)|Scramble City]]-style combiner team, with [[Snaptrap (G1)|a large leader toy]] who forms the torso of a larger robot, with four smaller toys plugging in to form the limbs. The team was given an additional fifth small toy, however. All five small toys have a "weapon" mode—essentially their creature mode with a gun barrel attached—allowing any of them to be used by the combined robot as a Targetmaster weapon. Each small toy could also form a free-standing gun by attaching to a small stand included with the toy.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1990]])
{{anchor|actionmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Action Masters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[Razor-Sharp]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Jackpot (G1)|Jackpot]] with [[Sights (G1)|Sights]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Krok (G1)|Krok]] with [[Gatoraider]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[Push-Button]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Rad (G1)|Rad]] with [[Lionizer (G1)|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Rollout (G1)|Rollout]] with [[Glitch (G1)|Glitch]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[Top-Heavy]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[Catgut]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy PushButton.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Push-Button]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several [[Action Master]] figures include robotic partners who transform into weapons for the robot's use. Though not labeled as such at the time, 2003's ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye]]'' profile books retroactively dubbed these characters Targetmasters. Logically, the other partners not included in the series could be considered Targetmasters too, but have never officially been labeled as such.
|}

===Beast Wars===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Basics'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m1|[[Break]]}}
{{Bp-m1|[[Stampy (BWN)|Stampy]]}}
|
|[[File:BWN-toy Stampy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Stampy]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several of the ''Beast Wars Neo'' toys include third-mode weapon forms, which could be wielded by other toys.
|}

===Beast Machines===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2000]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m2|[[Dillo]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Mol]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Rav (BM)|Rav]]}}
|[[File:BeastMachinestoy-Mol.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2003)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2003]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-p1|[[Chro]]<ref>Chro was called a Targetmaster in Cryotek's [http://botcon.com/archive/story/characters/cryotek.html BotCon online bio]. Chro is repurposed from Rav's blue deco.</ref>}}
|[[File:BM RavBlue-Chro-toy.jpg|upright=1.66|Chro the Raven, “Nevermore”.|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Collector's Edition===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Collector's Edition|Orion Pax]] (w/ [[Roller (G1)#Collector's Edition|Barrelroller]] and [[Dion (G1)#Collector's Edition|Dion]])}}
|[[File:Barrelroller g1.jpg|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2008)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys#Universe (2008)|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:UniverseCyclonusCorrected.JPG|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
A re-imagining of their original designs.
|}

===Gentei! Gentei!===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] with [[Rocketbot]]}}
|
|[[File:Henkei-toy Rocketbot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
[[Redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}

===Timelines (Shattered Glass)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-sa|[[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (SG)|Holepunch]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (SG)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] with [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-sd|[[Cyclonus (SG)|Cyclonus]] with [[Krunix (SG)|Krunix]]}}
|
|[[File:SGtoy-Cyclonus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Scoop, Crosshairs, Holepunch, Pinpointer and Nightstick are [[repurposing|repurposed]] toys from previous toylines. Cyclonus and Krunix are [[redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}
{{toystub}}

===United===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#United|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#United|Nightstick]] and [[Sparks#Toys|Sparks]])}}
|[[File:Unitedtoy-Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Targetmaster Microns'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Fracas]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Haywire]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Spoilsport]] (2011)}}
|
[[File:United-toy Recoil.jpg|Recoil|thumb|upright=1.66]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The ''[[Power Core Combiners]]'' [[Mini-Con]] molds are released as Targetmaster Microns in the Japanese toyline ''[[Transformers United]]''.<ref>[http://www.takaratomy.co.jp/products/TF/event/micron_01.html ''Transformers United'' official site]</ref>
|}

===Transformers (2010)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] (with [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]])}}
|
|[[File:Masterpiecetoy-Offshoot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The North American release of Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] comes with a "Limited Edition" Targetmaster partner named [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]].
|}

===Masterpiece===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#Masterpiece|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#Masterpiece|Nightstick]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#MP-40|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Masterpiece|Firebolt]])}}
|[[File:Masterpiece MP-37 Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Generations===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Thrilling 30''' (2013-2014)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)#Generations|Autobot Scoop]] (w/ [[Holepunch (G1)#Generations|Holepunch]] & [[Tracer (Targetmaster)#Generations|Caliburst]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Combiner Wars''' (2014-2016)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)#Combiner Wars|TFSS Spinister]] (w/ [[Hairsplitter#Combiner Wars|Shrute]] & [[Singe#Generations|Singe]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)#Generations|TFSS Needlenose]] (w/ [[Sunbeam (G1)#Combiner Wars|Sunbeam]] & [[Zigzag#Combiner Wars|Zputty]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''War for Cybertron Trilogy''' (2018-2020)
{{Bp-d1|[[Blowpipe (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Blowpipe]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Firebolt (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Firedrive]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Aimless (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skywarp (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron: Siege|Skywarp]] (w/ [[Fracas#War for Cybertron: Siege|Fracas]] & [[Hairsplitter#War for Cybertron: Siege|Shrute)]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Hotlink (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Hotlink]] (w/ [[Heartburn#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heartburn]] & [[Heatstroke#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heatstroke)]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Megatron (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Decepticon Megatron]] (w/ [[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Lionizer]] and [[Pinpointer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Pinpointer]])}}

|[[File:Scoop-deluxe-generations.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{main|Battle Master}}
{{groupstub}}
{{-}}

===Legends===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Legends|Firebolt]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Cher]] (w/ [[Recoil (G1)#Legends|Recoil]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Triggerhappy]] (w/ [[Blowpipe (G1)#Legends|Blowpipe]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Doublecross#Legends|Targetmaster Doublecross]] (w/ [[Haywire#Legends|Haywire]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Misfire]] (w/ [[Aimless (G1)#Legends|Aimless]])}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Slugslinger]] (w/ [[Caliburst (G1)#Legends|Caliburst]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Windblade (G1)#LG62|Targetmaster Windblade]] (w/ [[Pinpointer (G1)#Legends|Pointech]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Topspin (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Topspin]] (w/ [[Peacemaker#Legends|Peaceman]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Twin Twist#Legends|Targetmaster Twin Twist]] (w/ [[Spoilsport#Legends|Spoil]])}}
|[[File:TF-LG-45-Targetmaster-Rodimus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

==Notes==
===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Targetmaster''' (ターゲットマスター ''Tāgettomasutā'')
*''Hungarian:'' '''Célmester''' (Marvel Comics, "Targetmaster")

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising subgroups]]
[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising technology]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Generation 1 technology]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:The Headmasters subgroups]]
[[Category:The Headmasters technology]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass subgroups]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass technology]]
[[Category:Targetmasters| ]]
[[Category:Wings Universe subgroups]]
[[Category:Wings Universe technology]]

Targetmaster (technology)

2021-05-07T22:41:30Z

Warpshard: /* Generation 1 */ Adding captions of the toy names to those missing it.

{{disambig3.5|the 1987 gimmick|the 2019 gimmick|Battle Master|Targetmaster}}
[[File:Desertislandofspace-targetmaster-rollcall.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Cambot! Gypsy! Tom Servo! Croooooow!]]
The '''Targetmasters''' are a subset of Transformers [[Binary bonding|binary-bonded]] to smaller partners, who transform into their weapons. The partner is often an organic life form that has been bio-engineered to be partly mechanical, or wears a suit of armor that transforms around them to become the weapon.

The Targetmasters benefit from being able to take two minds into battle. A Targetmaster possesses a living weapon that is capable of making its own tactical decisions and target priorities. The advantage is similar to that of having a dedicated gunner aboard an aircraft or tank.

The Targetmaster process is often seen to follow shortly after development of the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] process. The earliest known Targetmasters were among the [[Autobot]]s and [[Decepticon]]s involved in the war on [[Nebulos]], and were paired with a bio-engineered [[Nebulan]] humanoid which wore a transforming exosuit. Later Targetmasters included virtually any Transformer specifically partnered with another being that becomes their weapon, not limited to Nebulans or organics. The term has been applied to the [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]] team<ref>[[Hasbro]]'s 1988 toy [[catalog]]</ref> and several [[Action Master]] pairings.<ref>''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]''</ref>

Some Transformers, known as '''Double-Targetmasters''', are bonded with two smaller partners who can form individual weapons or combine with one another to form a 'double weapon', with the power of whichever weapon forms the 'barrel' boosted by the other.

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics====
{{noteukonly}}
The first Targetmasters were a group of six Autobots under the command of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Fortress Maximus]]. Having traveled to the planet Nebulos in search of peace, this group surrendered their weapons to the natives to prove their peaceful intentions. {{storylink|Ring of Hate!}}

''Nebulon minds were duplicated and installed into transformable Nebulon-sized robots, creating the Targetmasters.'' {{storylink|The Final Conflict}}

{{note|This depiction of Targetmasters as robots with duplicated Nebulon minds and not actual Nebulons is unique to this story.}}

[[File:BrothersinArmor-Targetmasters.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4|Mouseketeer Roll Call! Cubby! Bobby! Gregor! Jimmy! Darlene! Annette!]]
Some time later, [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] and his Decepticon Headmaster partner [[Scorponok (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Scorponok]] had discredited the Autobots, turned public opinion against them, and driven them into retreat. A group of six Nebulan dissidents undertook a great risk to join the Autobots, allowing themselves to be bio-engineered into replacement weapons for the six unarmed Autobots. The Targetmasters became known as [[Peacemaker]], [[Spoilsport]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], [[Sparks]], and [[Haywire]].

The Autobot Targetmasters' first trial by combat came at the [[Nursery (Nebulos)|Nursery]], a horticultural research facility that was under threat by Zarak's Decepticons. The newly minted Targetmasters engaged Scorponok and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] in a battle for the Nursery, but retreated as the facility was being destroyed by the battle, regardless of who was winning.

[[File:Decepticon targetmasters brothers in armor.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
[[Vorath]] was soon able to duplicate the Autobots' experiment, creating a group of five Decepticon Targetmasters, though they weren't quite a match for the Autobot Headmasters. All of the Targetmasters left Nebulos soon after, as the Autobots retreated to spare Nebulos further warfare, and the Decepticons pursued. {{storylink|Brothers in Armor!!}}

[[File:Pointblank worlds apart.jpg|thumb|left]]
''At some point before leaving Nebulos, the Decepticons captured [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]], [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] and took them back to their [[Fortress of Despair]], apparently because they couldn't perfect the Targetmaster process. After a brief skirmish with the Autobot Headmasters, they retreated and let the Autobots follow them...directly into a trap! It was not creating Targetmasters that Scorponok was struggling with, but Headmasters. Although [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]] was able to release the Autobot Targetmasters, and with their partners [[Peacemaker]], [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]], and [[Spoilsport]] they pretty much won the battle, Scorponok was able to escape with a captive [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] to study.'' {{storylink|Worlds Apart!}}

{{note|Only the eleven "large" Targetmasters are given an origin in the ''Headmasters'' mini-series, and there isn't a lot of room in the plot for others to have been made off-panel. Nevertheless, the [[The Transformers Universe|Marvel bios]] for several of the "small" (1988) Targetmasters imply they became Targetmasters at this time.}}

After arriving on [[Earth]], the Autobot Targetmasters subsequently went on a mission to rescue the human [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]] from the Decepticons. They were repulsed from the Decepticons' [[Club Con|island base]] by a phalanx of hidden weapons. {{storylink|The Desert Island of Space!}}

[[File:Nightstickwreckinghavoc.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
''Having left Scorponok's forces, [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] attempted to force their former leader [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] to hand over his [[time-jump trigger device]], backed up by their Targetmaster partners. When the meeting was interrupted by the [[Wrecker]]s and battle ensued, Springer attempted to relieve Cyclonus of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] but was taken aback when the gun transformed and ran away from him.'' {{storylink|Wrecking Havoc}}

[[File:Nightstickcrushed.jpg|thumb|left|100px]]
''Nightstick would not prove to be nearly so fortunate when Cyclonus and Scourge attempted to forge an alliance with the current [[Decepticon leader]] [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]]. When negotiations went badly, Shockwave sent a [[Straxus (G1)|clone]] of [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] to kill Cyclonus and crush his gun.'' {{storylink|Dry Run!}}

''[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], along with [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] and [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], led an attack on an Autobot [[Ark shuttlecraft|shuttle]] to retrieve Scorponok's head from Highbrow, but once he had been reassembled they were spirited away to [[Limbo]] to make way for [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] and the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] from the future. Meanwhile, Scourge and [[Fracas]] were fighting alongside Galvatron and the Megatron clone against the Wreckers and [[Mayhem Attack Squad|Mayhems]]. Ultimately the present-day Targetmasters reappeared when Soundwave returned his troops to their own time, but Cyclonus and Scourge vanished into the [[time rift]].'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}

Additional Targetmasters may or may not have been created as the war went on. [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] and [[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] were both seen using weapons resembling their Targetmaster partners, but their individual circumstances do not seem to easily allow for them to have been on Nebulos to acquire Targetmaster partners. {{storylink|Yesterday's Heroes!}}

Recoil was among the weapons surrendered by the Autobots to the Decepticons as part of preparation for an alliance against [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]]. {{storylink|Surrender!}}
{{-}}

====Marvel UK future timelines====
[[File:Targetmaster-nomore.jpg|thumb|Hot Rod is no longer a Targetmaster as he mourns Firebolt's death.]]
In the year [[2007]], Autobot leader [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] reminisced about the war; on Nebulos where he first teamed up with his Targetmaster partner [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]] and later, on Earth, when Firebolt died under unspecified circumstances. {{storylink|Headhunt}}
{{-}}

====Earthforce====
{{earthforcefiction}}
[[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]] noted the double-paired Targetmasters known as Double-Targetmasters among his list of complaints about how complicated things had gotten in his absence. {{storylink|Starting Over!}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
The Targetmaster process was developed eons ago on Cybertron, as a process to forge a warrior and his weapon into a cohesive fighting team. The two are linked on a mental and physical level, allowing them to draw energy from each other and multitask with extreme efficiency. Targetmaster weapons cannot be wielded by another being without their consent unless they are somehow incapacitated in their weapon configuration. Severe injury or death of one partner can have a profound physical and emotional impact on the other.

The Targetmaster process was further expanded upon on the planet Nebulon. This would allow organic humanoids, not just mechanoids, to function as weapons when adorned with removable armor. The strength and endurance of these modified beings were greatly enhanced, though their appearance does not change. {{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye issue 8}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====American cartoon continuity====
[[File:Targetmasters.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Here's me, and here's my gun!]]
The creation of Targetmasters and [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], in this continuity, started with an initial idea of Brainstorm's that Autobots should use [[human]] partners while driving to help with steering and speed, this idea was confirmed when a race between [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]] and [[Blurr (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Blurr]] was won not by Blurr's speed, but by [[Daniel Witwicky (G1)|Daniel Witwicky]]'s help in driving Hot Rod. [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], however, was very sceptical about this idea.

After a large scale Decepticon attack, several Autobots, [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike]], and Daniel crash-landed on [[Nebulos]]; where the Autobots were taken captive by the inhabitants. After a Decepticon attack in which Daniel Witwicky was injured and put on life support, several Autobots were kidnapped by Decepticons.

The Nebulan warriors explained their situation with the [[Hive (G1)|Hive]] to the Autobots, and why they didn't trust them at first, and came to an agreement. Using Brainstorm's idea, they would use their and Daniel's minds with the Autobots' bodies to be powerful enough to defeat the Hive and save the others. Thus were born the Headmasters. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 1}}

Once the Headmasters got to know their partners, they set off to rescue the five captured captured Autobots. After some torture, Hot Rod, [[Kup (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Kup]], Blurr, [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]], and [[Pointblank]] were all saved by the Headmasters.

After witnessing the power of secondary operators, the Decepticons and other Autobots saw the logic in having some of their own.

The defeated Decepticons were captured by the hive and taken to their underground base of operations. [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]], the leader of the hive gave the Decepticons an opportunity to become powerful like the Autobot Headmasters at the literal cost of their heads. [[Cyclonus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Scourge]] agreed to let the Nebulans make Headmasters only out of the Decepticons there with beast modes, they however would only let the organic beings into their weapons. So [[Skullcruncher (G1)|Skullcruncher]], [[Apeface]], [[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]], [[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]], and [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] were turned into Headmasters, [[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]], [[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]], [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]], Scourge, and Cyclonus had their weapons modified so that hive members could fit into and transform into them.

[[File:Cyclonus tm.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|*ptew ptew*]]
[[Cerebros (G1)|Cerebros]], meanwhile had found a city and told the news to the other Autobots, damaging himself in the process. The Nebulans fixed him and believed the city he talked about to be the hive's old base from before they moved underground. The Decepticons, now with their Nebulan partners, attacked the Autobots again. Brainstorm was mad that the Decepticons stole his idea, the Head and Targetmasters and the Decepticons overwhelmed the Autobots and stole the key to the plasma energy chamber from them before the hive convinced the Decepticons to go back to Zarak to await orders.

[[File:Rebirth2 Blurr with gun.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.1|"Haywire you're grey and black, now stop looking like my old gun."
"Aww, but this model is so much nicer."]]
Brainstorm, to even the odds, showed his fellow Autobots scans of [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]], showing how the Decepticons modified their guns and used the Nebulan tech to modify the non-Headmaster Autobot's guns and have Nebulan partners inside them. Hot Rod, Kup, Blurr, Crosshairs, Pointblank, and [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]]'s guns were modified and became the Autobot Targetmasters.

[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] then showed up on Nebulos and was introduced to the Autobot's Headmaster and Targetmaster partners. He was also informed that the Decepticons also had access to the same technology and the key to the plasma energy chamber. The Autobots went to the Decepticons to fight but they and their Nebulan partners had nearly completed their project. The Decepticons engaged the Autobots in combat but were surprised to see that the Autobots now had Targetmaster partners too.

The Autobots, however, were much more surprised to see that Zarak had created something big using the same Headmaster technology both factions had: [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 2}} {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 3}}
{{-}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
[[File:Tf headmaster 29 pointblank target on.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|FIRE IN THE HOLE!]]
In Japanese continuities, Targetmaster partners hail from the planet [[Master (planet)|Master]], but unlike the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]] they are partnered with a regular Transformer as opposed to a [[Transtector]]. This fusion came about in a blast which binary-bonded a group of refugees from Master to the arms of the new Autobot recruits, as well as the Decepticon marauders, who were terrorizing the refugees in the first place. Unlike in the U.S. continuity and toys, when the Masters transform into gun mode, they take the place of their larger partner's entire hand instead of being held by it.

[[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]] and [[Artfire]] have Targetmasters, even though they were not present for the explosion. The Japanese Targetmasters speak in a series of electronic beeps (like the [[Mini-Con]]s) that only their bonded partner can understand, instead of speaking normally like their Headmaster brethren.
{{-}}

====''Wings Universe''====
{{wingsnote}}
[[Tornado]] was a Targetmaster, usually wielded by his [[Squadron X]] leader [[Macabre]] and later [[Ferak]]. {{storylink|Tornado - Decepticon Saboteur|Torando - Decepticon Saboteur, 2014/06/10}}

Following the [[Great Transformation]], [[Flareup (G1)|Flareup]] found herself stationed at [[New Polyhex]], where she became a star pupil while training under the ancient and enigmatic Target Masters before being recruited into the [[Cybertronian Knight]]s. {{storylink|Flareup (G1)#BotCon2014|BotCon 2014 Knight Flareup profile card}}

===''Shattered Glass''===
[[File:Crosshairs SG.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb]]
In this reverse universe, the Targetmasters take a much more active role in battle: they can take all motor control over the limb of whoever is holding them. The small partners are [[Micromaster]]s with three modes: robot, vehicle, and weapon.

[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] devised a plan to keep the Decepticons stranded on Cybertron while the Autobots fled to Earth. To execute this plan, he, [[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]], and [[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] took Targetmaster partners. [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]] was easily able to take down Megatron, but the Decepticon Micromasters were able to thwart the entire group of Targetmasters, allowing Megatron to free himself. {{storylink|Do Over}}

===''TransTech''===
After a bad experience with "colonists" from the [[Aurex]] Cluster, Nebulos made their atmosphere poisonous to Cybertronian life. In order to safely go undercover on this world, [[Vector Prime]] was binary bonded with [[Safeguard (TransTech)|Safeguard]], a friendly native. In addition to processing Vector Prime's fuel, he could also become a handheld weapon, making him a Target/Powermaster. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/11/01}}

===''Beast Wars: Uprising''===
Targetmaster technology was first created in the 21st century, by the Nebulans [[Teslor]] and [[Arcana]], as an enhancement to the already-existing Headmaster technology. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}} The process involved the subjects mingling their sparks, granting both a dramatic boost in power, such as being able to shoot down ships from orbit. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}} The technology gave the Autobots a temporary advantage in the war for Nebulos, until [[Fracas]] and [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]] defected to the Decepticons, taking the Targetmaster process with them.

When the war spread to the planet [[Master (planet)|Rebirth]], the [[Malignus (G1)|Malignus]] scientist [[Nucleon (Generations)|Nucleon]] adapted the process to work with Cyberdroid physiology. Along with the Powermaster and Headmaster technology, it was used to create the [[Triple-Threat Master]] technology as well. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}}

Towards the end of the war, the mad Decepticon [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] found out the Targetmasters' ability to draw power from their wielder's Sparks could be amplified, and took the ability to its conclusion: being able to draw the life out of a Cybertronian just being near them. Terrified by this discovery, Autobots and Decepticons alike arranged for the Targetmasters, organic and Cybertronian alike, to be granted exile when the war ended. However, this was a ruse, and both sides arranged for the mass murder of all Targetmasters to prevent their powers being used ever again. The systematic eradication was later dubbed the "[[Targetmaster Extirpation]]". However, a few Targetmasters did survive, and went into hiding on a Cybertron now utterly hostile to their kind.

In the 24th century, one of the last Targetmasters, [[Twirl (G1)|Twirl]], was killed by [[Overrun]] when she considered outing herself. This sequence of events led to Overrun himself dying to prevent anyone else getting their hands on him. {{storylink|Trigger Warnings}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1987]])
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] with [[Haywire]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys|Hot Rod]] with [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] with [[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Pointblank]] with [[Peacemaker]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] with [[Spoilsport]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Crosshairs.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Crosshairs]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Autobot Targetmasters were sold boxed with their Targetmaster partners, and consisted of three all-new molds alongside slightly retooled versions of Hot Rod, Kup, and Blurr from the previous year's assortment. The three older molds featured enlarged fist holes, allowing them to hold their new weapons. Both old and new molds transform into futuristic/Cybertronian ground vehicles. All six can mount their Targetmaster weapon on their roof or hood while in vehicle mode.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)|Misfire]] with [[Aimless (G1)|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] with [[Fracas]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] with [[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)|Triggerhappy]] with [[Blowpipe (G1)|Blowpipe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Misfire.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Misfire]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Similar to their Autobot counterparts, the Decepticon Targetmasters feature three new jet molds alongside retooled versions of Cyclonus and Scourge with enlarged fist holes. All five transform into futuristic/Cybertronian aircraft. Their weapons can be mounted on top of them in jet form. The three newer molds were also sold in 1988.
|}

{{anchor|JapaneseTargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Japanese-original Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Stepper ([[Ricochet (Headmasters)|Ricochet]]) with [[Nebulon (Headmasters)|Nebulon]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire]] with [[Nightstick (Headmasters)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Stepper.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Stepper]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Artfire and Ricochet are [[redeco]]s and [[retool]]ings of the original toys for [[Inferno (G1)#Toys|Inferno]] and [[Jazz (G1)/toys#Generation 1|Jazz]], respectively. They each come with the Targetmaster partner molds that were used as Fracas and Nightstick in the US.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1988]])
{{anchor|doubletargetmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Autobot Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] with [[Flintlock]] and [[Silencer (G1)|Silencer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]] with [[Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (G1)|Ricochet]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Targetmaster)|Tracer]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Landfill.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nebulan-on-Nebulan action!]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Often referred to as the "small Targetmasters" to distinguish them from the larger 1987 releases, these toys were sold carded. Each toy includes two smaller Targetmaster partners, each of which can form a gun or combine together as a larger gun. The two guns can also mount on the robot's vehicle form. The three Autobots share a construction vehicle theme. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Decepticon Targetmasters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] with [[Sunbeam (G1)|Sunbeam]] and [[Zigzag]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Quake (G1)|Quake]] with [[Tiptop]] and [[Heater]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] with [[Hairsplitter]] and [[Singe]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy Quake.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Quake]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Decepticon "small Targetmasters" were sold carded with two Targetmaster partners each. Like the 1988 Autobots, these partners can form independent or combined weapons, and mount on their partner Transformers' vehicle forms or be wielded by them in robot mode. The three Transformers all turn into military vehicles. These toys were never released in Japan.
|}

{{anchor|seacons}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Seacons'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Nautilator]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Overbite (G1)|Overbite]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Seawing (G1)|Seawing]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skalor]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Tentakil (G1)|Tentakil]]}}
|
|[[File:Nautilatorg1toy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Nautilator]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The Seacons are a [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1986 (Scramble City and 2010)|Scramble City]]-style combiner team, with [[Snaptrap (G1)|a large leader toy]] who forms the torso of a larger robot, with four smaller toys plugging in to form the limbs. The team was given an additional fifth small toy, however. All five small toys have a "weapon" mode—essentially their creature mode with a gun barrel attached—allowing any of them to be used by the combined robot as a Targetmaster weapon. Each small toy could also form a free-standing gun by attaching to a small stand included with the toy.
|}

*'''Targetmasters''' ([[1990]])
{{anchor|actionmasters}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Action Masters'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Banzai-Tron (G1)|Banzai-Tron]] with [[Razor-Sharp]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Jackpot (G1)|Jackpot]] with [[Sights (G1)|Sights]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Krok (G1)|Krok]] with [[Gatoraider]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Mainframe (G1)|Mainframe]] with [[Push-Button]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-a1|[[Rad (G1)|Rad]] with [[Lionizer (G1)|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Rollout (G1)|Rollout]] with [[Glitch (G1)|Glitch]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]] with [[Top-Heavy]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] with [[Catgut]]}}
|
|[[File:G1-toy PushButton.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|thumb|Push-Button]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several [[Action Master]] figures include robotic partners who transform into weapons for the robot's use. Though not labeled as such at the time, 2003's ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets The Eye]]'' profile books retroactively dubbed these characters Targetmasters. Logically, the other partners not included in the series could be considered Targetmasters too, but have never officially been labeled as such.
|}

===Beast Wars===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="99%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Basics'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m1|[[Break]]}}
{{Bp-m1|[[Stampy (BWN)|Stampy]]}}
|
|[[File:BWN-toy Stampy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Several of the ''Beast Wars Neo'' toys include third-mode weapon forms, which could be wielded by other toys.
|}

===Beast Machines===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2000]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-m2|[[Dillo]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Mol]]}}
{{Bp-m2|[[Rav (BM)|Rav]]}}
|[[File:BeastMachinestoy-Mol.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2003)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Deployers''' ([[2003]])
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-p1|[[Chro]]<ref>Chro was called a Targetmaster in Cryotek's [http://botcon.com/archive/story/characters/cryotek.html BotCon online bio]. Chro is repurposed from Rav's blue deco.</ref>}}
|[[File:BM RavBlue-Chro-toy.jpg|upright=1.66|Chro the Raven, “Nevermore”.|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Collector's Edition===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Collector's Edition|Orion Pax]] (w/ [[Roller (G1)#Collector's Edition|Barrelroller]] and [[Dion (G1)#Collector's Edition|Dion]])}}
|[[File:Barrelroller g1.jpg|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Universe (2008)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Cyclonus (G1)/toys#Universe (2008)|Cyclonus]] with [[Nightstick (G1)|Nightstick]]}}
|
|[[File:UniverseCyclonusCorrected.JPG|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
A re-imagining of their original designs.
|}

===Gentei! Gentei!===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Strafe (G1)|Strafe]] with [[Rocketbot]]}}
|
|[[File:Henkei-toy Rocketbot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
[[Redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}

===Timelines (Shattered Glass)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-sa|[[Scoop (SG)|Scoop]] with [[Holepunch (SG)|Holepunch]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Crosshairs (SG)|Crosshairs]] with [[Pinpointer (SG)|Pinpointer]]}}
{{Bp-sa|[[Ricochet (SG)|Ricochet]] with [[Nightstick (SG)|Nightstick]]}}
{{Bp-sd|[[Cyclonus (SG)|Cyclonus]] with [[Krunix (SG)|Krunix]]}}
|
|[[File:SGtoy-Cyclonus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
Scoop, Crosshairs, Holepunch, Pinpointer and Nightstick are [[repurposing|repurposed]] toys from previous toylines. Cyclonus and Krunix are [[redeco]]s of the ''Universe'' Cyclonus and Nightstick molds.
|}
{{toystub}}

===United===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#United|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#United|Nightstick]] and [[Sparks#Toys|Sparks]])}}
|[[File:Unitedtoy-Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Targetmaster Microns'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Recoil (G1)|Recoil]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Fracas]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Haywire]] (2010)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)|Caliburst]] (2011)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Spoilsport]] (2011)}}
|
[[File:United-toy Recoil.jpg|Recoil|thumb|upright=1.66]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The ''[[Power Core Combiners]]'' [[Mini-Con]] molds are released as Targetmaster Microns in the Japanese toyline ''[[Transformers United]]''.<ref>[http://www.takaratomy.co.jp/products/TF/event/micron_01.html ''Transformers United'' official site]</ref>
|}

===Transformers (2010)===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] (with [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]])}}
|
|[[File:Masterpiecetoy-Offshoot.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
|-
|width="100%" valign="top" colspan=8|
The North American release of Masterpiece [[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#HasbroMasterpiece|Rodimus Prime]] comes with a "Limited Edition" Targetmaster partner named [[Firebolt (G1)#Transformers (2010)|Offshoot]].
|}

===Masterpiece===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Artfire#Masterpiece|Artfire]] (w/ [[Nightstick (Headmasters)#Masterpiece|Nightstick]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#MP-40|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Masterpiece|Firebolt]])}}
|[[File:Masterpiece MP-37 Artfire.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

===Generations===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Thrilling 30''' (2013-2014)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Scoop (G1)#Generations|Autobot Scoop]] (w/ [[Holepunch (G1)#Generations|Holepunch]] & [[Tracer (Targetmaster)#Generations|Caliburst]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Combiner Wars''' (2014-2016)
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Spinister (G1)#Combiner Wars|TFSS Spinister]] (w/ [[Hairsplitter#Combiner Wars|Shrute]] & [[Singe#Generations|Singe]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Needlenose (G1)#Generations|TFSS Needlenose]] (w/ [[Sunbeam (G1)#Combiner Wars|Sunbeam]] & [[Zigzag#Combiner Wars|Zputty]])}}

|width="20%" valign="top"|'''War for Cybertron Trilogy''' (2018-2020)
{{Bp-d1|[[Blowpipe (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Blowpipe]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Firebolt (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Firedrive]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Lionizer]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Aimless (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Aimless]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Caliburst (G1)#War for Cybertron: Siege|Caliburst]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Skywarp (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron: Siege|Skywarp]] (w/ [[Fracas#War for Cybertron: Siege|Fracas]] & [[Hairsplitter#War for Cybertron: Siege|Shrute)]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Hotlink (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Hotlink]] (w/ [[Heartburn#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heartburn]] & [[Heatstroke#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Heatstroke)]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Megatron (G1)/toys#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Decepticon Megatron]] (w/ [[Lionizer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Lionizer]] and [[Pinpointer (G1)#War for Cybertron Trilogy|Captive Pinpointer]])}}

|[[File:Scoop-deluxe-generations.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{main|Battle Master}}
{{groupstub}}
{{-}}

===Legends===
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Hot Rod (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Hot Rodimus]] (w/ [[Firebolt (G1)#Legends|Firebolt]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Kup (G1)/toys#Legends|Targetmaster Cher]] (w/ [[Recoil (G1)#Legends|Recoil]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Triggerhappy (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Triggerhappy]] (w/ [[Blowpipe (G1)#Legends|Blowpipe]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Doublecross#Legends|Targetmaster Doublecross]] (w/ [[Haywire#Legends|Haywire]])}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Misfire (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Misfire]] (w/ [[Aimless (G1)#Legends|Aimless]])}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
{{Bp-d1|[[Slugslinger (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Slugslinger]] (w/ [[Caliburst (G1)#Legends|Caliburst]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Windblade (G1)#LG62|Targetmaster Windblade]] (w/ [[Pinpointer (G1)#Legends|Pointech]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Topspin (G1)#Legends|Targetmaster Topspin]] (w/ [[Peacemaker#Legends|Peaceman]])}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Twin Twist#Legends|Targetmaster Twin Twist]] (w/ [[Spoilsport#Legends|Spoil]])}}
|[[File:TF-LG-45-Targetmaster-Rodimus.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
</ul>
|}
{{toystub}}

==Notes==
===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Targetmaster''' (ターゲットマスター ''Tāgettomasutā'')
*''Hungarian:'' '''Célmester''' (Marvel Comics, "Targetmaster")

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising subgroups]]
[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising technology]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Generation 1 technology]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:The Headmasters subgroups]]
[[Category:The Headmasters technology]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass subgroups]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass technology]]
[[Category:Targetmasters| ]]
[[Category:Wings Universe subgroups]]
[[Category:Wings Universe technology]]