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Transformers (2023) issue 1

2023-12-03T00:38:42Z

YoungDoctor: /* Transformers references */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #1
|prev=Void Rivals issue 1
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 2
|prev2=
|image=Transformers 2023 1 cvr.jpg
|caption=Alright, let’s do this one more time.
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[October 4]], [[2023]]
|coverdate=October 2023
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=Daniel Warren Johnson
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Sean Mackiewicz]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''After centuries of slumber, the Autobots and Decepticons awaken on a strange new world.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] finds his father, [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]], asleep in a bar. Spike asks his father how long he’s been there, to which [[Danny]] the bartender answers since noon. Sparkplug notices that Spike has his brother [[Jimmy Witwicky|Jimmy]]'s telescope with him. Spike tells him that he and [[Carly]] were planning to go up to [[Hanger's Rock]] to look at the full moon. He says it helps him remember Jimmy, to which Sparkplug grouses that it's better to just forget. Spike fires back at his father, telling him he won't end up like Jimmy. Meanwhile, [[Jerry (G1)|another patron]] is drunkenly ranting about how he saw a giant boxy jet fly down from space. Their conversation is interrupted by the arrival of Sparkplug's co-worker, [[Davey]], here to pick him up for their shifts. Sparkplug tells Spike that he has to grow up eventually, to which Spike angrily asks if he means being like him. As the adults drive off, Carly arrives to pick Spike up in her van. Carly consoles a dejected Spike by suggesting they go "pretend they're on another planet."

At Hanger's Rock, the pair climb the mountain in search of a better view and discuss their future ambitions. Spike has recently been accepted to the [[University of California, Berkeley]], where he wishes to follow in Jimmy's footsteps and become an astronaut, though he's reluctant to actually tell his father about it since Jimmy's death. Carly, meanwhile, has been looking at art schools, but she and her father are struggling to make it work financially. Carly takes Spike's hand in hers, telling him how sorry she is about what’s going on with his family. As the two teenagers lean in closer, an earthquake shakes the ground, causing the mountain to split open and sending the two plummeting into the depths below. Recovering, they find themselves inside a giant circular structure — the booster of [[Ark (G1)|a giant spacecraft]]. Spike ventures further inside the spacecraft and finds the main control room, littered with the mangled bodies of what appears to be some sort of giant robots.

[[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] flies into the ''Ark'' and transforms, grateful to have found his fallen friends. He activates [[Teletraan I|Teletraan One]] to repair and reconstruct his fellow Cybertronians, granting them new forms he found on [[Earth]]. The first to be reactivated is [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]. Jetfire warmly greets his old friend, having not seen him in centuries. Starscream thanks Jetfire for waking him and says that he's glad he "picked the right side" before immediately turning to the nearby [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] and blasting his head off. The stunned Jetfire, unaware that their people have been at war for the past hundred years, tries to stop him, but Starscream turns his weapons on his old friend for showing weakness. Starscream aims his weapon at [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] next, but he is stopped by a reconstructed [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]!

As the [[Autobot]] leader and [[Decepticon]] warrior fight, Prime notices the humans and instinctively dives to protect them from Starscream’s fire. Starscream's attack is halted by the intervention of [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]], right as Teletraan One reconstructs [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]. Realizing the computer is reconstructing them randomly, Starscream tells Skywarp to bring their fellow Decepticons closer. Optimus realizes that the Decepticons will outnumber them and orders a retreat, telling Ratchet to load their fellow Autobots into his new form's trailer while he fends off their opponents. He reaches for his [[ion blaster]] but is intercepted by cannon fire from a revived [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]. As he recovers, he sees Bumblebee's remains, cradling him in despair before being beset by Starscream and [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]]. Seeing this, Spike and Carly run out and push Prime's blaster to him, allowing him to fight back.

[[File:TF2023 – Prime & Ratchet vehicle modes.jpg|thumb|left|250px]]
Left with no choice, Optimus fires at Teletraan One, destroying the computer and preventing the remaining Decepticons from being reconstructed. As Teletraan explodes, Optimus grabs Carly and Spike. He and Ratchet transform and drive out of the ''Ark'' into the mountains below, Starscream and Skywarp in hot pursuit despite their low [[energon]] levels. Jetfire regains consciousness and follows after them, firing on Starscream much to his regret. Starscream volleys back, critically wounding Jetfire. Fortunately for the Autobots, Skywarp begins to run out of energy and the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]] are forced to retreat.

Needing to recuperate, Spike leads the Autobots to an abandoned quarry. As he succumbs to his injuries, Jetfire apologizes to Optimus; so much has changed since he left Cybertron in hopes of saving it. Optimus tries to use the [[Matrix of Leadership]] to heal Jetfire, but Ratchet tells him that his injuries are too great. Optimus grips his old friend's hand as he passes, still lamenting his failure.

Back in the ''Ark'', Soundwave reports to Starscream that he is unable to fix Teletraan One, as they lack both the energon and the raw materials necessary. Until it is repaired, they are the only Decepticons left. Soundwave has already sent [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] to scout for possible energon sources, but the job of harvesting it falls to Starscream since he has the most energon reserved. Begrudgingly, Starscream accepts. After all, he is leader of the Decepticons now.

As Davey and Sparkplug end their shift at the nearby power plant, Davey tries to talk to Sparkplug about his recent troubles, but they are interrupted by the arrival of Starscream, irritated he has to be the one doing all the work. The pair try to escape, but Starscream notices them. Sparkplug hides inside the plant, while Davey is snatched up by the giant alien. Starscream smiles to himself as he crushes Davey in his hand, amused at how fragile, squishy, and pathetic the humans are.

{{--}}

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (2)
* [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] (11)
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] (12)
* [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] (13)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (14)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (15)
* [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] (16)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (18)
* [[Hound (G1)|Hound]]’s arm (19)

|c2=
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (8)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (9)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (10)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (20)
* [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]] (21)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (22)

|c3=
* [[Sparkplug Witwicky]] (1)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (3)
* [[Danny]] (4)
* [[Jerry (G1)|Jerry]] (5)
* [[Davey]] (6)
* [[Carly]] (7)

|c4=
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] (17)
}}

==Quotes==
"Where are you going? Isn't that... Jimmy's?" 
"Yeah. Carly and I were going to check out the full moon tonight, remember? On top of Hanger's Rock?" 
"Looking at '''stars''' again, huh?" 
"Doing this kind of thing... it reminds me of him." 
"Why would you want to remember? It's best to '''forget''' all that." 
"Is that how you're gonna '''live''' now? Just pretending he didn't '''exist?'''" 
:—'''Sparkplug''' and '''Spike''' touch on their trauma

"You must forgive me. I have been away for centuries. I did not know about the war. I did not know you were the new Prime..." 
"I remember the day you left our home to find a way to save it." 
"And you... were so young then." 
"Much has changed since you left our planet. All for the worse." 
:—'''Jetfire''' and '''Optimus Prime''' rekindle their friendship

"Why are you all looking at '''me?'''" 
"You have the most energon reserved. Thus the harvesting is up to '''you.''' It's what Meg---" 
"'''Do not''' say his name. '''I''' am the leader of the Decepticons now."
:—'''Starscream''' and '''Soundwave'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Jetfire's arrival on Earth follows from his awakening in [[Void Rivals issue 1|the first issue]] of ''[[Void Rivals]]''. How long he was asleep exactly is a little unclear. In ''Void Rivals'', he mentions being stranded for millions of years, but here he says he was away for merely centuries. Due to the syntax used, it could be that Jetfire was ''searching'' for centuries but ''asleep'' for millions of years. The following issue confirms the centuries time frame, making ''Void Rivals'' use of millions of years the outlier.
* Cybertron's energon shortage was hinted at by [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] in ''Void Rivals'' [[Void Rivals issue 4|#4]].
* After being attacked by Starscream, Jetfire is seen leaking yellow fluid. This would appear to confirm that the yellow fuel used by [[Darak]] and [[Solila]] to reactivate him was indeed energon.
* Soundwave and Starscream allude to the absence of the usual Decepticon leader, [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]. Hmm... [[Cobra Commander (comic)|where could he be]]?
* Yes, Bumblebee's really dead, having been destroyed by Starscream. The other Transformers, including those like Thundercracker whose reassembly is interrupted, are just offline.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Thundercracker's not killed, he just was not fully built. [...] S'not like I shot him in the heart or something. Just FYI.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3774s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>

===Transformers references===
* Like with ''Void Rivals'', this new series draws heavy influence from the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]]:
** The character designs all pull directly from Generation 1.
** The ''Ark'' crashing into a mountain and the Autobots and Decepticons being repaired by Teletraan One is lifted from the premiere episode, "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]", right down to one of the Decepticons being reactivated first. The "error" of the Transformers having their Earth-inspired designs before they receive their Earth alternate modes is also carried over.
** Spike and Carly both originate from the Generation 1 cartoon, though they have been heavily reimagined, especially Carly.
** Starscream and Jetfire/Skyfire being old friends, as well as Jetfire dying after dogfighting Starscream, brings to mind "[[Fire in the Sky]]."
* Optimus Prime gains the upper hand over Starscream with a fist and a resounding "never", similar to ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''
*Sparkplug originates from the Marvel Comic [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|The Transformers]]
* This [[Darkness Rising, Part 1|isn't the]] [[Infiltration issue 1|first time]] a new ''Transformers'' series launched with Starscream in command in lieu of Megatron.

===Real-world references===
* Sparkplug's flashbacks on the first page of the issue features imagery of Sparkplug in a conflict much like the [[Vietnam War]] and the explosion of a space shuttle reminiscent of the {{w|Space Shuttle Challenger disaster|Space Shuttle ''Challenger'' disaster}}; based on the context, it seems likely that Jimmy was one of the victims in the latter. Whether these are meant to literally be those events (which would suggest the comic is actually supposed to be set in the 1980s) or merely stylistic renderings of purely fictional events remains to be seen.
* Appropriately, Sparkplug is drinking at a {{w|Veterans of Foreign Wars|VFW}} bar.
* Carly's van art features several staples of van murals, such as a wizard inspired by {{w|Gandalf}} from ''{{w|The Lord of the Rings}}'', a barbarian resembling {{w|Conan the Barbarian|Conan}}, and a fantasy castle and dragon.
* Optimus Prime enters the scene by ''clotheslining'' Starscream—this being the signature move of "Rainmaker" Kazuchika Okada, one of DWJ's favorite wrestlers.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=And of course, next we have a rainmaker clothesline, as one does. This is a wrestling move, this is one of my favorite wrestlers, Kazuchika Okada from New Japan Pro Wrestling. Of course, you know, the rainmaker, the lariat, is not new in professional wrestling, and by the end of this series it will not be new to Transformers.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2508s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref><ref>[https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x34jfv6 Kazuchika Okada's Finisher- Rainmaker on Dailymotion]</ref>

===Storytelling notes===
As both writer and artist on this ''Transformers'' series, Daniel Warren Johnson has a rare level of creative freedom while composing the issue and using the art to tell the story. Some of these creative choices were covered in a "director's commentary" livestream on his YouTube channel; key insights are reproduced here alongside our own analysis of the issue.
* DWJ keeps a copy of [[IP infringement|Magic Square]]'s "Light of Peace" figure close at hand, which influences his take on Optimus Prime.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=This is the Optimus Prime figure that Magic Square put out this past year in 2023. It's an update, so it has a new head sculpt, it looks just like the movie, the '86 movie which of course has been my bible. He looks so good that you can actually like, kind of pose him, and he looks pretty dynamic. And I knew that, man, if the toy looks this cool in real life, then I can make him look really cool... like look at this, it looks great, he looks kind of alive.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=798s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> He notes that he specifically avoids having Prime's "boots" flare out at all; he tries to draw them perfectly straight.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Another thing that I'll notice, that I'll give you a little preview of things to come artwise: you'll see Optimus's legs, you know, traditionally, you know, he's got kind of the 1970s design aesthetic here, which I think the Marvel Comics did, where, you know, the leg kind of comes out... like so it makes kind of like a boot cut kind of style for his like lower half of his leg. And I hate drawing that. I hate drawing that. Look how straight these legs are. As this series goes on you're going to see these legs get straighter and straighter. It's a stylistic thing something that I've been kind of like- it's been bugging me about drawing Optimus Prime, and it's just, I cannot stand drawing those legs widening out at the bottom. It's like, something about it, it just like, makes my eyes hurt. I've never liked it in the comics, it always read weird to me that they got wider. Some characters- like I remember when practicing, I was drawing Jazz. Jazz gets really wide, and if it's like, if it's really confident, like big and chunky, or Cliffjumper, big, chunky, no big deal. This? Like, Optimus's legs going wider? It just like, is it going wider is it not going w- anyway these are the ramblings of a crazy lunatic comic book artist.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2699s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* His primary ''Transformers'' comics influence comes from [[Marvel Comics]] and [[Dreamwave Productions]].<ref>{{citesocial|quote=I wanted to just highlight this poster that I had in my bedroom when I was like 16, when Pat Lee made this imagery. You know, I was a huge ''Transformers'' fan of course when I was growing up, and I read mostly the Marvel Comics, 'cause that was the only thing that was available at the time, and here we have the Pat Lee comics of course that Dreamwave put out. I was so excited, I thought it looked awesome. I still do appreciate its blockiness now. So this is another reason why I wanted to do the project, 'cause like I just remember these feelings, and these like super bright colors that like were so awesome... and just being excited with like every cover, and I just felt like a kid. [...] And of course this image, like this is very satisfying, I knew I didn't want to get this bulbous with the designs, but you know I can't say I wasn't influenced by the absolutely outlandishness of these kind of like larger-than-life characters, so.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=997s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> In the case of the latter, we'll note that [[Prime Directive|their opening miniseries]] prominently featured the ''[[Ark II]]'' disaster which drew heavily from the real-world Space Shuttle ''Challenger'' disaster.
* The first page of the story consists of five vertically-stacked cinematic landscape panels, with Sparkplug's flashbacks interspersed by a panel of the Ark crashing and of Prime's deactivated body. This gives us an idea of what's been going through Sparkplug's mind at the bar. In particular, the panel of Optimus Prime is bookended by Spike's offscreen dialogue getting his dad's attention; Prime is often positioned as something of a father figure in wider pop culture.
** At Hasbro's request, DWJ avoided being too specific as to the conflict being shown.<ref name=HasbroMandates>{{citesocial|quote=So here we've got the first page, and you can kind of see here, Hasbro wanted me to be be very like... don't show what kind of war it is... which is fine, and I did have to change these engines from three engines, which I just thought was a little cleaner, to five engines, like the Ark is, so I didn't think they'd care that much about being on model when it came to the Ark but they did!|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0?t=1316s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
** DWJ wanted to streamline the Ark's design to have just three rear thrusters, but Hasbro insisted on it having five,<ref name=HasbroMandates /> necessitating the digital addition of two more to the later splash page of the ship's engines.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=So again, I had to make a bit of an edit. The original art has just three engines, so I had to add these digitally—which I did not want to do, but Hasbro wanted it, so, okay, you know? It's okay, it's okay, it's all right, it is what it is...|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1845s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* The second page aims to bring the story into reality,<ref name=Page2>{{citesocial|quote=I really wanted to go all in on the first half of this page, and like really sell to you how lived in this world is. Even though it's a ''Transformers'' book it was very important to me that we got a vibe and a sense of where the human characters come from. And there's nothing more fun, than drawing the heck out of, than like a crappy VW hall. [...] It was a hard thing to draw, but it was also fun. I had to kind of photobash a bunch of different VFW bars—obviously didn't want to take from any one specifically, or any one bar specifically, just kind of taking the best of everything and kind of combining it into one. And this bartender, Danny the bartender, I'm a big fan of, he just kind of stands there. And of course the old guy that maybe has seen something crazy... total shout out to—even his like haircut is the same as, and the hat, as—''{{w|The Iron Giant}}'', so a little shout out there. [...] It doesn't really [take place in a specific time period like the '80s or '90s] in my opinion, there might be other people in the Energon Universe that have a different time, we don't really have a time period in place. I find time periods in comics like ''Transformers'' to be completely unnecessary. If I'm trying to make historical fiction then of course it is important, but when it comes to making things like the Transformers I have just never cared. JFK is not getting assassinated in the background on television here, so it's just not part of the story. But you will notice there's no cell phones, so. But that's cuz I hate writing stories with cell phones in them.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1406s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> with much more detailed panels of varying shapes and sizes, and a muted earthen color palette.
** DWJ took reference from several different {{w|Veterans of Foreign Wars|VFW}} bars to arrive at the location seen in the comic.<ref name=Page2 />
** As Spike and Sparkplug exit, the cluttered interior gives way to the orange evening sky, with the generous negative space often physically separating Spike from his distant father.
** DWJ notes that the final panel of this spread is technically wrong; based on the perspective of the scene, Spike should be sinking into the ground. This was necessary so as not to obscure Carly's van,<ref>{{citesocial|quote=I have a bit of a goof, a bit of a mistake [...] if you actually like do the perspective here, the way it should be done, it makes no sense. He would be sinking into the ground, he's like in quicksand right now, but I could not figure out a better dynamic shot choice that would show Carly and her artistic ability with this van. Like I tried to do it like this way, and it didn't really work, because it covered up too much of the van, and I realized just how big he would have to be, like his whole face would have to be like over here and it just didn't work. I wanted him to be in the middle, but then it also didn't make sense. So I was just like beating my head against the wall like, I hope this is okay, I hope people don't notice.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0?si=QxISYwvu5QpUEbhw&t=1516s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> which is the same model of vehicle that appears in DWJ's previous original comic series ''[https://www.skybound.com/murder-falcon Murder Falcon]''.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Of course the dragon wagon, the van used in ''Murder Falcon''.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1578s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> Mike Spicer has coloured the van using blue-pink tones, strongly contrasting with the orange otherwise dominating the spread. As we turn the page, these nighttime hues take over the story, marking the beginning of a transition towards the unreal.
* The mountain landscape was drawn to resemble that of an alien planet, to highlight the feeling of "otherworldliness".<ref>{{citesocial|quote=This also is one of my favorite panels in the book. I wanted to start getting a little crazy, a little more intense with the shot choices, to kind of start getting us into the vibe of otherworldliness. This looks a little bit like they're exploring Mars, that was the goal, completely clear sky, really pushing the envelope when it comes to dynamic composition.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1635s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* As the earthquake begins, we get the first instance of hand-lettered sound effects, drawn into the lineart by DWJ. These appear more prominently and frequently as we transition towards comic-book action.
[[File:TF2023 1 Splash pages composition.jpg|thumb|right|upright=2|Diagram illustrating DWJ's intended flow for the back-to-back splash pages.]]
* The reveal of the Ark is paired across the two-page spread with another splash page of the deactivated Autobots. DWJ hoped to create a seamless transition, with the reader's gaze travelling down towards the inset panels at the bottom left, then following Spike and Carly across to the right, before travelling up into the scene.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=This was a goal, this was the goal: to have these pages be bleeding into each other. [...] You know I don't like to do this very often, you have like two splash pages back-to-back, because they kind of like... it gets a little messy here. But you know I usually like- if I have a big splash here [on the left], I'll usually have something a little more reserved over here [on the right], and I won't have it bleed over to the left side of the page. But with here, you'll actually notice that I was trying to get people to read from... obviously you're reading here, then you go down, left to right, into this bottom part of the page, and have your eye trail up instead of going over here [diagonally across the center fold] to the top. So I was using these kind of inset panels to kind of get you to read that way.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1985s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> Mike Spicer's coloring (exaggerated in the diagram on the right) again reinforces this intent, with the blue shade of the rocks at the bottom of the right-hand page carrying over from the left-hand page.
** Meanwhile, all of the lines of perspective inside the room point outside, where a tiny Jetfire can be seen approaching.
* Jetfire is one of Robert Kirkman's favorite Transformers, and his role in this series came entirely from Robert Kirkman's broad-strokes outline.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=So, full disclosure: Robert Kirkman came up with the Jetfire idea. Jetfire is one of Robert's favorite Transformers, and that's why he was chosen. He's also like part of the lore and it was kind of like in this big outline that Jetfire was the one that comes in and finds the Autobots on Earth in the Ark- Autobots and Decepticons. But he doesn't have knowledge about the war. So you know I can't give away too much, but that was a Robert Kirkman call, and I was happy to do it. I was a little afraid about drawing Jetfire at first, but I'm actually- of course I write the script first where he dies, because it's just what the story needed, but then as I got to drawing him I was like, "I really like drawing this guy, I'm so sad I have to kill him!"|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3301s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* The shock death of Bumblebee was a deliberate choice, as DWJ felt like audiences would be getting a little tired of seeing Bumblebee everywhere. Surprisingly, Hasbro felt the same way, and themselves asked if there was a way to write Bumblebee out of the series! DWJ also apparently doesn't enjoy drawing Bumblebee, which informed the decision,<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Let me be totally honest about the Bumblebee page, let me address this. I do really- I do like Bumblebee. I don't like drawing Bumblebee, I don't like those rivets in his arms. That's not the only reason why he had to go, I just honestly wanted to change things up. I just wanted to change things up, and I had seen a lot of Bumblebee, I think we all have, in a lot of ''Transformers'' media, and I just thought it would be a fun little swerve. And this is actually funny, our contact over at Hasbro was also a little tired of seeing Bumblebee everywhere, and he actually asked, before he saw my script, he's like, "is there any way we can not use Bumblebee in the main line?" And I told him, I was like, "I got good news for you!" He had to go, he had to go. Sorry Bumblebee fans, sorry to let you down like that, I am so sorry. They are Transformers, maybe they'll come back... but not for a long time. It's Cliff's time baby! You said it!|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2545s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> which perhaps doesn't bode too well for Cliffjumper!
* When Starscream turns on Jetfire, DWJ struggled to get the composition exactly right, as he was limited by the need to make it explicitly clear that Jetfire was gravely wounded.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=I wanted to make sure that everybody knew that Jetfire was gravely injured by this blast, which means I couldn't really white it out, had to be clear.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2498s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* Prime uses several wrestling moves on Starscream; DWJ had previously created the original comic series ''[https://imagecomics.com/comics/series/do-a-powerbomb Do A Powerbomb!]'', which had a central theme of loss—a motif which recurs throughout this first ''Transformers'' issue.
* As Starscream, Skywarp and Thundercracker look identical in black-and-white, DWJ labels them in his lineart so colorist Mike Spicer can easily distinguish.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Also notice the color notes I had to leave for Mike, because Skywarp and Starcream look exactly alike in black and white.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2839s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* Prime instinctively knowing about his trailer, and its sudden appearance in the story, is a riff on classic media where Prime's trailer would often appear and disappear out of nowhere per the needs of the story.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=This is a little shoutout to like, the not-making-any-sense of ''Transformers'', where you know, very conveniently, this trailer just shows up out of nowhere. So you know, Prime's like, "What are we going to do?" and he's like, "We could use my trailer!" Look sometimes you just have to have fun and not think too much about the story.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3131s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* As Prime's face is uniquely inexpressive, DWJ had to get creative to show his emotions to the reader, relying a lot on the character's eyes. Additionally, he tries to channel Prime's feelings through Spike.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Optimus is a character that does not emote—less so than even the rest of the cast, because of the face shield, because so much of his face is taken up, and he's really only got those eyes to work with. And I found that I was needing a way to channel Optimus through something, and I'm kind of trying to channel that through Spike, if you can't tell. I have a tendency to not be subtle, so... in life and in comics.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3516s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> When Spike sees Prime kneeling over Bumblebee's body, it seems that he recognises the grief this alien robot is experiencing.
* Amongst the many creative sound effects in this sequence, we have highlights like "GRAPPLE" and "ROLL" accompanying the action. Clicks and buzzes fill the air together with the floating components as the Transformers are reassembled.
* DWJ contrived the situation where Spike and Carly need to push Prime's gun into his reach as a way of giving the human characters agency during the action sequence.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Sliding the gun! Super fun! I rewrote this scene a few times because the humans were just sitting, screaming, you know? Spike and Carly like, "Oh my god, what's happening!?" behind some rocks, and I was like, "They need to have some agency, they need to get involved somehow." And so that is why I had them push the gun, and it forces action, it just forces movement in a story, it gives Spike personality and like bravery, and I'm very happy with this moment. It's very hard to not just write fight scenes where it's just like fight fight fight fight fight, and finding new ways to tie everybody together, and I wish I had more time to do this but of course we work in genre fiction where there are deadlines, and sometimes that can't happen, but I was glad that I was able to figure this one out.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3543s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> The "SKRKK" sound effect of the gun scraping along the floor is drawn to follow the lines of action.
* When Prime gives the order to "Transform and roll out!", the ''entire comic'' shifts to a landscape orientation, requiring you to physically turn the comic in your hands. This is awesome.
* Ratchet's updated alternate mode came simply from a dissatisfaction with his classic Nissan look.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Any reason you went with a more modern style van, a Ford Transit rather than the traditional Nissan Vanette for Ratchet? You know what, I just didn't like the way the Nissan looked, so I just, I really wanted something different. I just wanted something different, so.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2966s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* DWJ was keen to develop the Decepticons beyond their classic cartoonishly-evil characterisation, with a key example in this issue being Soundwave's clear concern for the injured Ravage.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=It's all about this, baby. It's all about trying to give some... you know... something other than... "The Decepticons are all evil, raah!" Like, Soundwave is a bad dude—but man, he loves his tapes, and one of these tapes is hurting bad and he's feeling real bad about it.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=4410s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* For Davey's gruesome death at the hand of Starscream, Hasbro requested it occur off-panel. The beat was intended to clearly set the stakes of the comic without being egregiously gory,<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Hasbro asked for Davey to be killed offscreen, which I was totally fine with. Did want to get kind of messy with it, though, because I did want to kind of make a little bit of a statement. You know, it's a book that your kids can read, but you know, not everybody's going to make it, so.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=4593s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> and seems to mark a major turning point for Sparkplug.

===Errors===
* Bumblebee's body is seen near Optimus Prime’s trailer, despite him being across the ship near Teletraan One when Starscream blew his head open.
* When Starscream is forced to break off his pursuit of the Autobots, his speech balloon is pointing to Skywarp.

===Other trivia===
* Prior to its official release, an ashcan copy of this issue was available exclusively at [[San Diego Comic-Con]] 2023. The ashcan had certain pages taken out to prevent spoilers, as well as featuring concept art and designs for various characters.
* In early solicitations for this issue, the cover had an original logo with blue text broken over two lines;<ref>[https://www.previewsworld.com/Catalog/AUG230407 ''Transformers'' #1 CVR A JOHNSON on PREVIEWSworld]</ref> the final cover uses the standard modern logo, leaving some unsightly negative space above Prime's head. This was changed at the request of Hasbro.
* This issue sold out at the distributor level before it was even officially released, prompting Skybound to announce a second printing the day before it hit retailer shelves.

===Covers===
With over 50 to choose from, ''Transformers'' #1 features more variant covers than any other single ''Transformers'' comic issue ''by a long shot''.
{{comicstub|49/55 covers documented}}
* '''Cover A:''' Optimus Prime emerges from an explosion, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' The Autobots, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' The Decepticons, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover D:''' Optimus Prime destroys Starscream, by [[Ryan Ottley]] and [[Annalisa Leoni]].
* '''Cover E (1:10 Copy Incentive):''' Connecting cover, by [[Orlando Arocena]].
* '''Cover F (1:25 Copy Incentive):''' Optimus leaps on Starscream to save Carly's van as Laserbeak and Ravage attack, by [[Cliff Chiang]].
* '''Cover G (1:50 Copy Incentive):''' Optimus Prime, by [[Francis Manapul]].
* '''Cover H (1:100 Copy Incentive Foil):''' Starscream holds Bumblebee’s head, by [[Ian Bertram]] and [[Gus Storms]].
* '''Cover I:''' Blank sketch cover.
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover A:''' Optimus Prime, by [[Jason Howard]].
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover B:''' Starscream, by Jason Howard.
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover C:''' The 'Bots, by [[Lewis LaRosa]] and [[Rico Renzi]].
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover D:''' The 'Cons, by Lewis LaRosa and Rico Renzi.
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover E:''' Bumblebee's fate, by [[Greg Tocchini]].
* '''Third Printing Variant Cover:''' by [[Gerald Parel]].
* '''Alan Quah exclusive:''' by [[Alan Quah]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Big Clutch/[[eBay]] exclusive:''' Foil variant of main cover A. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Big Time Collectibles exclusive A:''' by [[John Giang]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Big Time Collectibles exclusive B:''' Foil variant. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Carnivore Comics exclusive A:''' by [[Rafael Grassetti]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Carnivore Comics exclusive B:''' Virgin variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Carnivore Comics exclusive C:''' Foil variant. Limited to 1,000 copies, exclusively at New York Comic Con 2023.
* '''Comic Grail Vault exclusive A:''' by [[Von Randal]] and [[Alex Guimarães]]. Limited to 800 copies.
* '''Comic Grail Vault exclusive B:''' Foil variant.
* '''Condemned Comics exclusive:''' by [[Christopher Mitten]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''DarlsDraws exclusive:''' by [[Alina Rojas]]. Limited to 300 copies.
* '''Felix Comic Art exclusive A:''' Wraparound variant of Optimus Prime playing basketball against the Decepticons, by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Felix Comic Art exclusive B:''' Black-and-white virgin variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Forbidden Planet exclusive A:''' by [[Flaviano Armentaro]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Forbidden Planet exclusive B:''' Virgin variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Francesco Tomaselli New York Comic Con exclusive:''' by [[Francesco Tomaselli]]. Limited to 900 copies.
* '''Hector Trunnec New York Comic Con exclusive:''' by [[Hector Trunnec]]. Limited to 400 copies.
* '''Juni Ba exclusive A:''' by [[Juni Ba]]. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Juni Ba exclusive B:''' Foil variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Maria The Wolf exclusive A:''' by [[Maria Lopez]] & Mike Spicer. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Maria The Wolf exclusive B:''' Virgin variant. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Maria The Wolf exclusive C:''' Foil variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Matthew Roberts exclusive:''' by [[Matthew Roberts]].
* '''Memory Lane Comics exclusive:''' by [[Hayden Sherman]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''MFKiG exclusive:''' by [[Ainsworth Lin]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Mike Bowden New York Comic Con exclusive:''' by [[Mike Bowden]] and [[Pez Fred]]. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Rod Reis New York Comic Con exclusive:''' by [[Rod Reis]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Ryan Barry exclusive A:''' by [[Ryan Barry]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Ryan Barry exclusive B:''' Foil variant. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''San Diego Comic-Con Ashcan cover A:''' Spike atop Optimus Prime, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''San Diego Comic-Con Ashcan cover B:''' Black-and-white version, only available at Skybound's Energon Universe convention panel.
* '''Seibertron.com exclusive:''' by [[Marco Ferrari]].
* '''Skottie Young exclusive:''' by [[Skottie Young]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Skottie Young exclusive second printing:''' Virgin foil variant. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Stadium Comics exclusive:''' by [[Santa Fung]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''The 616 Comics exclusive:''' by [[Vincenzo Federici]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Things From Another World exclusive:''' by [[Frédéric Pham Chuong]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''TransMissions Podcast exclusive:''' by [[E. J. Su]].
* '''Whatnot exclusive A:''' by [[Siya Oum]].
* '''Whatnot exclusive B:''' Foil variant.

<gallery>
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File:Transformers 2023 1 Seibertron.com cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Skottie Young cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Stadium Comics cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 The 616 Comics cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Things From Another World cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 TransMissions Podcast cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Whatnot cvr A.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Explore the [[Energon Universe]] in ''Void Rivals''
* Codename: G.I. Joe starts in ''[[Duke (comic)|Duke]]'' #1
* The rise of [[Cobra]] starts in ''[[Cobra Commander (comic)|Cobra Commander]]'' #1
* A new era for G.I. Joe starts in ''[[G.I. Joe (comic)|G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero]]'' #301
* ''Murder Falcon'' Deluxe Hardcover available now

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 1''''' ([[May 7]], [[2024]]) ISBN 1534398171 / ISBN 978-1534398177 
** Collects issues #1-6.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V1.jpg|'''''Volume 1''''' – cover art by [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] and [[Mike Spicer]]
</gallery>

==External links==
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0 Director's commentary by Daniel Warren Johnson]

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 1

2023-12-03T00:37:23Z

YoungDoctor: /* Transformers references */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #1
|prev=Void Rivals issue 1
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 2
|prev2=
|image=Transformers 2023 1 cvr.jpg
|caption=Alright, let’s do this one more time.
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[October 4]], [[2023]]
|coverdate=October 2023
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=Daniel Warren Johnson
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Sean Mackiewicz]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''After centuries of slumber, the Autobots and Decepticons awaken on a strange new world.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] finds his father, [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]], asleep in a bar. Spike asks his father how long he’s been there, to which [[Danny]] the bartender answers since noon. Sparkplug notices that Spike has his brother [[Jimmy Witwicky|Jimmy]]'s telescope with him. Spike tells him that he and [[Carly]] were planning to go up to [[Hanger's Rock]] to look at the full moon. He says it helps him remember Jimmy, to which Sparkplug grouses that it's better to just forget. Spike fires back at his father, telling him he won't end up like Jimmy. Meanwhile, [[Jerry (G1)|another patron]] is drunkenly ranting about how he saw a giant boxy jet fly down from space. Their conversation is interrupted by the arrival of Sparkplug's co-worker, [[Davey]], here to pick him up for their shifts. Sparkplug tells Spike that he has to grow up eventually, to which Spike angrily asks if he means being like him. As the adults drive off, Carly arrives to pick Spike up in her van. Carly consoles a dejected Spike by suggesting they go "pretend they're on another planet."

At Hanger's Rock, the pair climb the mountain in search of a better view and discuss their future ambitions. Spike has recently been accepted to the [[University of California, Berkeley]], where he wishes to follow in Jimmy's footsteps and become an astronaut, though he's reluctant to actually tell his father about it since Jimmy's death. Carly, meanwhile, has been looking at art schools, but she and her father are struggling to make it work financially. Carly takes Spike's hand in hers, telling him how sorry she is about what’s going on with his family. As the two teenagers lean in closer, an earthquake shakes the ground, causing the mountain to split open and sending the two plummeting into the depths below. Recovering, they find themselves inside a giant circular structure — the booster of [[Ark (G1)|a giant spacecraft]]. Spike ventures further inside the spacecraft and finds the main control room, littered with the mangled bodies of what appears to be some sort of giant robots.

[[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] flies into the ''Ark'' and transforms, grateful to have found his fallen friends. He activates [[Teletraan I|Teletraan One]] to repair and reconstruct his fellow Cybertronians, granting them new forms he found on [[Earth]]. The first to be reactivated is [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]. Jetfire warmly greets his old friend, having not seen him in centuries. Starscream thanks Jetfire for waking him and says that he's glad he "picked the right side" before immediately turning to the nearby [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] and blasting his head off. The stunned Jetfire, unaware that their people have been at war for the past hundred years, tries to stop him, but Starscream turns his weapons on his old friend for showing weakness. Starscream aims his weapon at [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] next, but he is stopped by a reconstructed [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]!

As the [[Autobot]] leader and [[Decepticon]] warrior fight, Prime notices the humans and instinctively dives to protect them from Starscream’s fire. Starscream's attack is halted by the intervention of [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]], right as Teletraan One reconstructs [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]. Realizing the computer is reconstructing them randomly, Starscream tells Skywarp to bring their fellow Decepticons closer. Optimus realizes that the Decepticons will outnumber them and orders a retreat, telling Ratchet to load their fellow Autobots into his new form's trailer while he fends off their opponents. He reaches for his [[ion blaster]] but is intercepted by cannon fire from a revived [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]. As he recovers, he sees Bumblebee's remains, cradling him in despair before being beset by Starscream and [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]]. Seeing this, Spike and Carly run out and push Prime's blaster to him, allowing him to fight back.

[[File:TF2023 – Prime & Ratchet vehicle modes.jpg|thumb|left|250px]]
Left with no choice, Optimus fires at Teletraan One, destroying the computer and preventing the remaining Decepticons from being reconstructed. As Teletraan explodes, Optimus grabs Carly and Spike. He and Ratchet transform and drive out of the ''Ark'' into the mountains below, Starscream and Skywarp in hot pursuit despite their low [[energon]] levels. Jetfire regains consciousness and follows after them, firing on Starscream much to his regret. Starscream volleys back, critically wounding Jetfire. Fortunately for the Autobots, Skywarp begins to run out of energy and the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]] are forced to retreat.

Needing to recuperate, Spike leads the Autobots to an abandoned quarry. As he succumbs to his injuries, Jetfire apologizes to Optimus; so much has changed since he left Cybertron in hopes of saving it. Optimus tries to use the [[Matrix of Leadership]] to heal Jetfire, but Ratchet tells him that his injuries are too great. Optimus grips his old friend's hand as he passes, still lamenting his failure.

Back in the ''Ark'', Soundwave reports to Starscream that he is unable to fix Teletraan One, as they lack both the energon and the raw materials necessary. Until it is repaired, they are the only Decepticons left. Soundwave has already sent [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] to scout for possible energon sources, but the job of harvesting it falls to Starscream since he has the most energon reserved. Begrudgingly, Starscream accepts. After all, he is leader of the Decepticons now.

As Davey and Sparkplug end their shift at the nearby power plant, Davey tries to talk to Sparkplug about his recent troubles, but they are interrupted by the arrival of Starscream, irritated he has to be the one doing all the work. The pair try to escape, but Starscream notices them. Sparkplug hides inside the plant, while Davey is snatched up by the giant alien. Starscream smiles to himself as he crushes Davey in his hand, amused at how fragile, squishy, and pathetic the humans are.

{{--}}

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (2)
* [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] (11)
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] (12)
* [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] (13)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (14)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (15)
* [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] (16)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (18)
* [[Hound (G1)|Hound]]’s arm (19)

|c2=
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (8)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (9)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (10)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (20)
* [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]] (21)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (22)

|c3=
* [[Sparkplug Witwicky]] (1)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (3)
* [[Danny]] (4)
* [[Jerry (G1)|Jerry]] (5)
* [[Davey]] (6)
* [[Carly]] (7)

|c4=
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] (17)
}}

==Quotes==
"Where are you going? Isn't that... Jimmy's?" 
"Yeah. Carly and I were going to check out the full moon tonight, remember? On top of Hanger's Rock?" 
"Looking at '''stars''' again, huh?" 
"Doing this kind of thing... it reminds me of him." 
"Why would you want to remember? It's best to '''forget''' all that." 
"Is that how you're gonna '''live''' now? Just pretending he didn't '''exist?'''" 
:—'''Sparkplug''' and '''Spike''' touch on their trauma

"You must forgive me. I have been away for centuries. I did not know about the war. I did not know you were the new Prime..." 
"I remember the day you left our home to find a way to save it." 
"And you... were so young then." 
"Much has changed since you left our planet. All for the worse." 
:—'''Jetfire''' and '''Optimus Prime''' rekindle their friendship

"Why are you all looking at '''me?'''" 
"You have the most energon reserved. Thus the harvesting is up to '''you.''' It's what Meg---" 
"'''Do not''' say his name. '''I''' am the leader of the Decepticons now."
:—'''Starscream''' and '''Soundwave'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Jetfire's arrival on Earth follows from his awakening in [[Void Rivals issue 1|the first issue]] of ''[[Void Rivals]]''. How long he was asleep exactly is a little unclear. In ''Void Rivals'', he mentions being stranded for millions of years, but here he says he was away for merely centuries. Due to the syntax used, it could be that Jetfire was ''searching'' for centuries but ''asleep'' for millions of years. The following issue confirms the centuries time frame, making ''Void Rivals'' use of millions of years the outlier.
* Cybertron's energon shortage was hinted at by [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] in ''Void Rivals'' [[Void Rivals issue 4|#4]].
* After being attacked by Starscream, Jetfire is seen leaking yellow fluid. This would appear to confirm that the yellow fuel used by [[Darak]] and [[Solila]] to reactivate him was indeed energon.
* Soundwave and Starscream allude to the absence of the usual Decepticon leader, [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]. Hmm... [[Cobra Commander (comic)|where could he be]]?
* Yes, Bumblebee's really dead, having been destroyed by Starscream. The other Transformers, including those like Thundercracker whose reassembly is interrupted, are just offline.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Thundercracker's not killed, he just was not fully built. [...] S'not like I shot him in the heart or something. Just FYI.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3774s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>

===Transformers references===
* Like with ''Void Rivals'', this new series draws heavy influence from the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]]:
** The character designs all pull directly from Generation 1.
** The ''Ark'' crashing into a mountain and the Autobots and Decepticons being repaired by Teletraan One is lifted from the premiere episode, "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]", right down to one of the Decepticons being reactivated first. The "error" of the Transformers having their Earth-inspired designs before they receive their Earth alternate modes is also carried over.
** Spike and Carly both originate from the Generation 1 cartoon, though they have been heavily reimagined, especially Carly.
** Starscream and Jetfire/Skyfire being old friends, as well as Jetfire dying after dogfighting Starscream, brings to mind "[[Fire in the Sky]]."
* Optimus Prime gains the upper hand over Starscream with a fist and a resounding "never", similar to ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''
*Sparkplug originates from the Marvel Comic [[The Transformers (Marvel comic|The Transformers]]
* This [[Darkness Rising, Part 1|isn't the]] [[Infiltration issue 1|first time]] a new ''Transformers'' series launched with Starscream in command in lieu of Megatron.

===Real-world references===
* Sparkplug's flashbacks on the first page of the issue features imagery of Sparkplug in a conflict much like the [[Vietnam War]] and the explosion of a space shuttle reminiscent of the {{w|Space Shuttle Challenger disaster|Space Shuttle ''Challenger'' disaster}}; based on the context, it seems likely that Jimmy was one of the victims in the latter. Whether these are meant to literally be those events (which would suggest the comic is actually supposed to be set in the 1980s) or merely stylistic renderings of purely fictional events remains to be seen.
* Appropriately, Sparkplug is drinking at a {{w|Veterans of Foreign Wars|VFW}} bar.
* Carly's van art features several staples of van murals, such as a wizard inspired by {{w|Gandalf}} from ''{{w|The Lord of the Rings}}'', a barbarian resembling {{w|Conan the Barbarian|Conan}}, and a fantasy castle and dragon.
* Optimus Prime enters the scene by ''clotheslining'' Starscream—this being the signature move of "Rainmaker" Kazuchika Okada, one of DWJ's favorite wrestlers.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=And of course, next we have a rainmaker clothesline, as one does. This is a wrestling move, this is one of my favorite wrestlers, Kazuchika Okada from New Japan Pro Wrestling. Of course, you know, the rainmaker, the lariat, is not new in professional wrestling, and by the end of this series it will not be new to Transformers.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2508s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref><ref>[https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x34jfv6 Kazuchika Okada's Finisher- Rainmaker on Dailymotion]</ref>

===Storytelling notes===
As both writer and artist on this ''Transformers'' series, Daniel Warren Johnson has a rare level of creative freedom while composing the issue and using the art to tell the story. Some of these creative choices were covered in a "director's commentary" livestream on his YouTube channel; key insights are reproduced here alongside our own analysis of the issue.
* DWJ keeps a copy of [[IP infringement|Magic Square]]'s "Light of Peace" figure close at hand, which influences his take on Optimus Prime.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=This is the Optimus Prime figure that Magic Square put out this past year in 2023. It's an update, so it has a new head sculpt, it looks just like the movie, the '86 movie which of course has been my bible. He looks so good that you can actually like, kind of pose him, and he looks pretty dynamic. And I knew that, man, if the toy looks this cool in real life, then I can make him look really cool... like look at this, it looks great, he looks kind of alive.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=798s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> He notes that he specifically avoids having Prime's "boots" flare out at all; he tries to draw them perfectly straight.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Another thing that I'll notice, that I'll give you a little preview of things to come artwise: you'll see Optimus's legs, you know, traditionally, you know, he's got kind of the 1970s design aesthetic here, which I think the Marvel Comics did, where, you know, the leg kind of comes out... like so it makes kind of like a boot cut kind of style for his like lower half of his leg. And I hate drawing that. I hate drawing that. Look how straight these legs are. As this series goes on you're going to see these legs get straighter and straighter. It's a stylistic thing something that I've been kind of like- it's been bugging me about drawing Optimus Prime, and it's just, I cannot stand drawing those legs widening out at the bottom. It's like, something about it, it just like, makes my eyes hurt. I've never liked it in the comics, it always read weird to me that they got wider. Some characters- like I remember when practicing, I was drawing Jazz. Jazz gets really wide, and if it's like, if it's really confident, like big and chunky, or Cliffjumper, big, chunky, no big deal. This? Like, Optimus's legs going wider? It just like, is it going wider is it not going w- anyway these are the ramblings of a crazy lunatic comic book artist.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2699s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* His primary ''Transformers'' comics influence comes from [[Marvel Comics]] and [[Dreamwave Productions]].<ref>{{citesocial|quote=I wanted to just highlight this poster that I had in my bedroom when I was like 16, when Pat Lee made this imagery. You know, I was a huge ''Transformers'' fan of course when I was growing up, and I read mostly the Marvel Comics, 'cause that was the only thing that was available at the time, and here we have the Pat Lee comics of course that Dreamwave put out. I was so excited, I thought it looked awesome. I still do appreciate its blockiness now. So this is another reason why I wanted to do the project, 'cause like I just remember these feelings, and these like super bright colors that like were so awesome... and just being excited with like every cover, and I just felt like a kid. [...] And of course this image, like this is very satisfying, I knew I didn't want to get this bulbous with the designs, but you know I can't say I wasn't influenced by the absolutely outlandishness of these kind of like larger-than-life characters, so.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=997s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> In the case of the latter, we'll note that [[Prime Directive|their opening miniseries]] prominently featured the ''[[Ark II]]'' disaster which drew heavily from the real-world Space Shuttle ''Challenger'' disaster.
* The first page of the story consists of five vertically-stacked cinematic landscape panels, with Sparkplug's flashbacks interspersed by a panel of the Ark crashing and of Prime's deactivated body. This gives us an idea of what's been going through Sparkplug's mind at the bar. In particular, the panel of Optimus Prime is bookended by Spike's offscreen dialogue getting his dad's attention; Prime is often positioned as something of a father figure in wider pop culture.
** At Hasbro's request, DWJ avoided being too specific as to the conflict being shown.<ref name=HasbroMandates>{{citesocial|quote=So here we've got the first page, and you can kind of see here, Hasbro wanted me to be be very like... don't show what kind of war it is... which is fine, and I did have to change these engines from three engines, which I just thought was a little cleaner, to five engines, like the Ark is, so I didn't think they'd care that much about being on model when it came to the Ark but they did!|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0?t=1316s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
** DWJ wanted to streamline the Ark's design to have just three rear thrusters, but Hasbro insisted on it having five,<ref name=HasbroMandates /> necessitating the digital addition of two more to the later splash page of the ship's engines.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=So again, I had to make a bit of an edit. The original art has just three engines, so I had to add these digitally—which I did not want to do, but Hasbro wanted it, so, okay, you know? It's okay, it's okay, it's all right, it is what it is...|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1845s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* The second page aims to bring the story into reality,<ref name=Page2>{{citesocial|quote=I really wanted to go all in on the first half of this page, and like really sell to you how lived in this world is. Even though it's a ''Transformers'' book it was very important to me that we got a vibe and a sense of where the human characters come from. And there's nothing more fun, than drawing the heck out of, than like a crappy VW hall. [...] It was a hard thing to draw, but it was also fun. I had to kind of photobash a bunch of different VFW bars—obviously didn't want to take from any one specifically, or any one bar specifically, just kind of taking the best of everything and kind of combining it into one. And this bartender, Danny the bartender, I'm a big fan of, he just kind of stands there. And of course the old guy that maybe has seen something crazy... total shout out to—even his like haircut is the same as, and the hat, as—''{{w|The Iron Giant}}'', so a little shout out there. [...] It doesn't really [take place in a specific time period like the '80s or '90s] in my opinion, there might be other people in the Energon Universe that have a different time, we don't really have a time period in place. I find time periods in comics like ''Transformers'' to be completely unnecessary. If I'm trying to make historical fiction then of course it is important, but when it comes to making things like the Transformers I have just never cared. JFK is not getting assassinated in the background on television here, so it's just not part of the story. But you will notice there's no cell phones, so. But that's cuz I hate writing stories with cell phones in them.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1406s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> with much more detailed panels of varying shapes and sizes, and a muted earthen color palette.
** DWJ took reference from several different {{w|Veterans of Foreign Wars|VFW}} bars to arrive at the location seen in the comic.<ref name=Page2 />
** As Spike and Sparkplug exit, the cluttered interior gives way to the orange evening sky, with the generous negative space often physically separating Spike from his distant father.
** DWJ notes that the final panel of this spread is technically wrong; based on the perspective of the scene, Spike should be sinking into the ground. This was necessary so as not to obscure Carly's van,<ref>{{citesocial|quote=I have a bit of a goof, a bit of a mistake [...] if you actually like do the perspective here, the way it should be done, it makes no sense. He would be sinking into the ground, he's like in quicksand right now, but I could not figure out a better dynamic shot choice that would show Carly and her artistic ability with this van. Like I tried to do it like this way, and it didn't really work, because it covered up too much of the van, and I realized just how big he would have to be, like his whole face would have to be like over here and it just didn't work. I wanted him to be in the middle, but then it also didn't make sense. So I was just like beating my head against the wall like, I hope this is okay, I hope people don't notice.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0?si=QxISYwvu5QpUEbhw&t=1516s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> which is the same model of vehicle that appears in DWJ's previous original comic series ''[https://www.skybound.com/murder-falcon Murder Falcon]''.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Of course the dragon wagon, the van used in ''Murder Falcon''.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1578s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> Mike Spicer has coloured the van using blue-pink tones, strongly contrasting with the orange otherwise dominating the spread. As we turn the page, these nighttime hues take over the story, marking the beginning of a transition towards the unreal.
* The mountain landscape was drawn to resemble that of an alien planet, to highlight the feeling of "otherworldliness".<ref>{{citesocial|quote=This also is one of my favorite panels in the book. I wanted to start getting a little crazy, a little more intense with the shot choices, to kind of start getting us into the vibe of otherworldliness. This looks a little bit like they're exploring Mars, that was the goal, completely clear sky, really pushing the envelope when it comes to dynamic composition.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1635s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* As the earthquake begins, we get the first instance of hand-lettered sound effects, drawn into the lineart by DWJ. These appear more prominently and frequently as we transition towards comic-book action.
[[File:TF2023 1 Splash pages composition.jpg|thumb|right|upright=2|Diagram illustrating DWJ's intended flow for the back-to-back splash pages.]]
* The reveal of the Ark is paired across the two-page spread with another splash page of the deactivated Autobots. DWJ hoped to create a seamless transition, with the reader's gaze travelling down towards the inset panels at the bottom left, then following Spike and Carly across to the right, before travelling up into the scene.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=This was a goal, this was the goal: to have these pages be bleeding into each other. [...] You know I don't like to do this very often, you have like two splash pages back-to-back, because they kind of like... it gets a little messy here. But you know I usually like- if I have a big splash here [on the left], I'll usually have something a little more reserved over here [on the right], and I won't have it bleed over to the left side of the page. But with here, you'll actually notice that I was trying to get people to read from... obviously you're reading here, then you go down, left to right, into this bottom part of the page, and have your eye trail up instead of going over here [diagonally across the center fold] to the top. So I was using these kind of inset panels to kind of get you to read that way.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1985s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> Mike Spicer's coloring (exaggerated in the diagram on the right) again reinforces this intent, with the blue shade of the rocks at the bottom of the right-hand page carrying over from the left-hand page.
** Meanwhile, all of the lines of perspective inside the room point outside, where a tiny Jetfire can be seen approaching.
* Jetfire is one of Robert Kirkman's favorite Transformers, and his role in this series came entirely from Robert Kirkman's broad-strokes outline.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=So, full disclosure: Robert Kirkman came up with the Jetfire idea. Jetfire is one of Robert's favorite Transformers, and that's why he was chosen. He's also like part of the lore and it was kind of like in this big outline that Jetfire was the one that comes in and finds the Autobots on Earth in the Ark- Autobots and Decepticons. But he doesn't have knowledge about the war. So you know I can't give away too much, but that was a Robert Kirkman call, and I was happy to do it. I was a little afraid about drawing Jetfire at first, but I'm actually- of course I write the script first where he dies, because it's just what the story needed, but then as I got to drawing him I was like, "I really like drawing this guy, I'm so sad I have to kill him!"|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3301s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* The shock death of Bumblebee was a deliberate choice, as DWJ felt like audiences would be getting a little tired of seeing Bumblebee everywhere. Surprisingly, Hasbro felt the same way, and themselves asked if there was a way to write Bumblebee out of the series! DWJ also apparently doesn't enjoy drawing Bumblebee, which informed the decision,<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Let me be totally honest about the Bumblebee page, let me address this. I do really- I do like Bumblebee. I don't like drawing Bumblebee, I don't like those rivets in his arms. That's not the only reason why he had to go, I just honestly wanted to change things up. I just wanted to change things up, and I had seen a lot of Bumblebee, I think we all have, in a lot of ''Transformers'' media, and I just thought it would be a fun little swerve. And this is actually funny, our contact over at Hasbro was also a little tired of seeing Bumblebee everywhere, and he actually asked, before he saw my script, he's like, "is there any way we can not use Bumblebee in the main line?" And I told him, I was like, "I got good news for you!" He had to go, he had to go. Sorry Bumblebee fans, sorry to let you down like that, I am so sorry. They are Transformers, maybe they'll come back... but not for a long time. It's Cliff's time baby! You said it!|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2545s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> which perhaps doesn't bode too well for Cliffjumper!
* When Starscream turns on Jetfire, DWJ struggled to get the composition exactly right, as he was limited by the need to make it explicitly clear that Jetfire was gravely wounded.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=I wanted to make sure that everybody knew that Jetfire was gravely injured by this blast, which means I couldn't really white it out, had to be clear.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2498s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* Prime uses several wrestling moves on Starscream; DWJ had previously created the original comic series ''[https://imagecomics.com/comics/series/do-a-powerbomb Do A Powerbomb!]'', which had a central theme of loss—a motif which recurs throughout this first ''Transformers'' issue.
* As Starscream, Skywarp and Thundercracker look identical in black-and-white, DWJ labels them in his lineart so colorist Mike Spicer can easily distinguish.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Also notice the color notes I had to leave for Mike, because Skywarp and Starcream look exactly alike in black and white.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2839s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* Prime instinctively knowing about his trailer, and its sudden appearance in the story, is a riff on classic media where Prime's trailer would often appear and disappear out of nowhere per the needs of the story.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=This is a little shoutout to like, the not-making-any-sense of ''Transformers'', where you know, very conveniently, this trailer just shows up out of nowhere. So you know, Prime's like, "What are we going to do?" and he's like, "We could use my trailer!" Look sometimes you just have to have fun and not think too much about the story.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3131s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* As Prime's face is uniquely inexpressive, DWJ had to get creative to show his emotions to the reader, relying a lot on the character's eyes. Additionally, he tries to channel Prime's feelings through Spike.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Optimus is a character that does not emote—less so than even the rest of the cast, because of the face shield, because so much of his face is taken up, and he's really only got those eyes to work with. And I found that I was needing a way to channel Optimus through something, and I'm kind of trying to channel that through Spike, if you can't tell. I have a tendency to not be subtle, so... in life and in comics.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3516s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> When Spike sees Prime kneeling over Bumblebee's body, it seems that he recognises the grief this alien robot is experiencing.
* Amongst the many creative sound effects in this sequence, we have highlights like "GRAPPLE" and "ROLL" accompanying the action. Clicks and buzzes fill the air together with the floating components as the Transformers are reassembled.
* DWJ contrived the situation where Spike and Carly need to push Prime's gun into his reach as a way of giving the human characters agency during the action sequence.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Sliding the gun! Super fun! I rewrote this scene a few times because the humans were just sitting, screaming, you know? Spike and Carly like, "Oh my god, what's happening!?" behind some rocks, and I was like, "They need to have some agency, they need to get involved somehow." And so that is why I had them push the gun, and it forces action, it just forces movement in a story, it gives Spike personality and like bravery, and I'm very happy with this moment. It's very hard to not just write fight scenes where it's just like fight fight fight fight fight, and finding new ways to tie everybody together, and I wish I had more time to do this but of course we work in genre fiction where there are deadlines, and sometimes that can't happen, but I was glad that I was able to figure this one out.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3543s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> The "SKRKK" sound effect of the gun scraping along the floor is drawn to follow the lines of action.
* When Prime gives the order to "Transform and roll out!", the ''entire comic'' shifts to a landscape orientation, requiring you to physically turn the comic in your hands. This is awesome.
* Ratchet's updated alternate mode came simply from a dissatisfaction with his classic Nissan look.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Any reason you went with a more modern style van, a Ford Transit rather than the traditional Nissan Vanette for Ratchet? You know what, I just didn't like the way the Nissan looked, so I just, I really wanted something different. I just wanted something different, so.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2966s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* DWJ was keen to develop the Decepticons beyond their classic cartoonishly-evil characterisation, with a key example in this issue being Soundwave's clear concern for the injured Ravage.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=It's all about this, baby. It's all about trying to give some... you know... something other than... "The Decepticons are all evil, raah!" Like, Soundwave is a bad dude—but man, he loves his tapes, and one of these tapes is hurting bad and he's feeling real bad about it.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=4410s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* For Davey's gruesome death at the hand of Starscream, Hasbro requested it occur off-panel. The beat was intended to clearly set the stakes of the comic without being egregiously gory,<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Hasbro asked for Davey to be killed offscreen, which I was totally fine with. Did want to get kind of messy with it, though, because I did want to kind of make a little bit of a statement. You know, it's a book that your kids can read, but you know, not everybody's going to make it, so.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=4593s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> and seems to mark a major turning point for Sparkplug.

===Errors===
* Bumblebee's body is seen near Optimus Prime’s trailer, despite him being across the ship near Teletraan One when Starscream blew his head open.
* When Starscream is forced to break off his pursuit of the Autobots, his speech balloon is pointing to Skywarp.

===Other trivia===
* Prior to its official release, an ashcan copy of this issue was available exclusively at [[San Diego Comic-Con]] 2023. The ashcan had certain pages taken out to prevent spoilers, as well as featuring concept art and designs for various characters.
* In early solicitations for this issue, the cover had an original logo with blue text broken over two lines;<ref>[https://www.previewsworld.com/Catalog/AUG230407 ''Transformers'' #1 CVR A JOHNSON on PREVIEWSworld]</ref> the final cover uses the standard modern logo, leaving some unsightly negative space above Prime's head. This was changed at the request of Hasbro.
* This issue sold out at the distributor level before it was even officially released, prompting Skybound to announce a second printing the day before it hit retailer shelves.

===Covers===
With over 50 to choose from, ''Transformers'' #1 features more variant covers than any other single ''Transformers'' comic issue ''by a long shot''.
{{comicstub|49/55 covers documented}}
* '''Cover A:''' Optimus Prime emerges from an explosion, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' The Autobots, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' The Decepticons, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover D:''' Optimus Prime destroys Starscream, by [[Ryan Ottley]] and [[Annalisa Leoni]].
* '''Cover E (1:10 Copy Incentive):''' Connecting cover, by [[Orlando Arocena]].
* '''Cover F (1:25 Copy Incentive):''' Optimus leaps on Starscream to save Carly's van as Laserbeak and Ravage attack, by [[Cliff Chiang]].
* '''Cover G (1:50 Copy Incentive):''' Optimus Prime, by [[Francis Manapul]].
* '''Cover H (1:100 Copy Incentive Foil):''' Starscream holds Bumblebee’s head, by [[Ian Bertram]] and [[Gus Storms]].
* '''Cover I:''' Blank sketch cover.
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover A:''' Optimus Prime, by [[Jason Howard]].
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover B:''' Starscream, by Jason Howard.
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover C:''' The 'Bots, by [[Lewis LaRosa]] and [[Rico Renzi]].
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover D:''' The 'Cons, by Lewis LaRosa and Rico Renzi.
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover E:''' Bumblebee's fate, by [[Greg Tocchini]].
* '''Third Printing Variant Cover:''' by [[Gerald Parel]].
* '''Alan Quah exclusive:''' by [[Alan Quah]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Big Clutch/[[eBay]] exclusive:''' Foil variant of main cover A. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Big Time Collectibles exclusive A:''' by [[John Giang]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Big Time Collectibles exclusive B:''' Foil variant. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Carnivore Comics exclusive A:''' by [[Rafael Grassetti]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Carnivore Comics exclusive B:''' Virgin variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Carnivore Comics exclusive C:''' Foil variant. Limited to 1,000 copies, exclusively at New York Comic Con 2023.
* '''Comic Grail Vault exclusive A:''' by [[Von Randal]] and [[Alex Guimarães]]. Limited to 800 copies.
* '''Comic Grail Vault exclusive B:''' Foil variant.
* '''Condemned Comics exclusive:''' by [[Christopher Mitten]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''DarlsDraws exclusive:''' by [[Alina Rojas]]. Limited to 300 copies.
* '''Felix Comic Art exclusive A:''' Wraparound variant of Optimus Prime playing basketball against the Decepticons, by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Felix Comic Art exclusive B:''' Black-and-white virgin variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Forbidden Planet exclusive A:''' by [[Flaviano Armentaro]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Forbidden Planet exclusive B:''' Virgin variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Francesco Tomaselli New York Comic Con exclusive:''' by [[Francesco Tomaselli]]. Limited to 900 copies.
* '''Hector Trunnec New York Comic Con exclusive:''' by [[Hector Trunnec]]. Limited to 400 copies.
* '''Juni Ba exclusive A:''' by [[Juni Ba]]. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Juni Ba exclusive B:''' Foil variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Maria The Wolf exclusive A:''' by [[Maria Lopez]] & Mike Spicer. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Maria The Wolf exclusive B:''' Virgin variant. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Maria The Wolf exclusive C:''' Foil variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Matthew Roberts exclusive:''' by [[Matthew Roberts]].
* '''Memory Lane Comics exclusive:''' by [[Hayden Sherman]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''MFKiG exclusive:''' by [[Ainsworth Lin]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Mike Bowden New York Comic Con exclusive:''' by [[Mike Bowden]] and [[Pez Fred]]. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Rod Reis New York Comic Con exclusive:''' by [[Rod Reis]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Ryan Barry exclusive A:''' by [[Ryan Barry]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Ryan Barry exclusive B:''' Foil variant. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''San Diego Comic-Con Ashcan cover A:''' Spike atop Optimus Prime, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''San Diego Comic-Con Ashcan cover B:''' Black-and-white version, only available at Skybound's Energon Universe convention panel.
* '''Seibertron.com exclusive:''' by [[Marco Ferrari]].
* '''Skottie Young exclusive:''' by [[Skottie Young]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Skottie Young exclusive second printing:''' Virgin foil variant. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Stadium Comics exclusive:''' by [[Santa Fung]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''The 616 Comics exclusive:''' by [[Vincenzo Federici]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Things From Another World exclusive:''' by [[Frédéric Pham Chuong]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''TransMissions Podcast exclusive:''' by [[E. J. Su]].
* '''Whatnot exclusive A:''' by [[Siya Oum]].
* '''Whatnot exclusive B:''' Foil variant.

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===Advertisements===
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===Reprints===
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** Collects issues #1-6.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V1.jpg|'''''Volume 1''''' – cover art by [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] and [[Mike Spicer]]
</gallery>

==External links==
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0 Director's commentary by Daniel Warren Johnson]

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 1

2023-12-03T00:31:06Z

YoungDoctor: /* Transformers references */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #1
|prev=Void Rivals issue 1
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 2
|prev2=
|image=Transformers 2023 1 cvr.jpg
|caption=Alright, let’s do this one more time.
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[October 4]], [[2023]]
|coverdate=October 2023
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=Daniel Warren Johnson
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Sean Mackiewicz]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''After centuries of slumber, the Autobots and Decepticons awaken on a strange new world.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] finds his father, [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]], asleep in a bar. Spike asks his father how long he’s been there, to which [[Danny]] the bartender answers since noon. Sparkplug notices that Spike has his brother [[Jimmy Witwicky|Jimmy]]'s telescope with him. Spike tells him that he and [[Carly]] were planning to go up to [[Hanger's Rock]] to look at the full moon. He says it helps him remember Jimmy, to which Sparkplug grouses that it's better to just forget. Spike fires back at his father, telling him he won't end up like Jimmy. Meanwhile, [[Jerry (G1)|another patron]] is drunkenly ranting about how he saw a giant boxy jet fly down from space. Their conversation is interrupted by the arrival of Sparkplug's co-worker, [[Davey]], here to pick him up for their shifts. Sparkplug tells Spike that he has to grow up eventually, to which Spike angrily asks if he means being like him. As the adults drive off, Carly arrives to pick Spike up in her van. Carly consoles a dejected Spike by suggesting they go "pretend they're on another planet."

At Hanger's Rock, the pair climb the mountain in search of a better view and discuss their future ambitions. Spike has recently been accepted to the [[University of California, Berkeley]], where he wishes to follow in Jimmy's footsteps and become an astronaut, though he's reluctant to actually tell his father about it since Jimmy's death. Carly, meanwhile, has been looking at art schools, but she and her father are struggling to make it work financially. Carly takes Spike's hand in hers, telling him how sorry she is about what’s going on with his family. As the two teenagers lean in closer, an earthquake shakes the ground, causing the mountain to split open and sending the two plummeting into the depths below. Recovering, they find themselves inside a giant circular structure — the booster of [[Ark (G1)|a giant spacecraft]]. Spike ventures further inside the spacecraft and finds the main control room, littered with the mangled bodies of what appears to be some sort of giant robots.

[[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] flies into the ''Ark'' and transforms, grateful to have found his fallen friends. He activates [[Teletraan I|Teletraan One]] to repair and reconstruct his fellow Cybertronians, granting them new forms he found on [[Earth]]. The first to be reactivated is [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]. Jetfire warmly greets his old friend, having not seen him in centuries. Starscream thanks Jetfire for waking him and says that he's glad he "picked the right side" before immediately turning to the nearby [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] and blasting his head off. The stunned Jetfire, unaware that their people have been at war for the past hundred years, tries to stop him, but Starscream turns his weapons on his old friend for showing weakness. Starscream aims his weapon at [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] next, but he is stopped by a reconstructed [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]!

As the [[Autobot]] leader and [[Decepticon]] warrior fight, Prime notices the humans and instinctively dives to protect them from Starscream’s fire. Starscream's attack is halted by the intervention of [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]], right as Teletraan One reconstructs [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]. Realizing the computer is reconstructing them randomly, Starscream tells Skywarp to bring their fellow Decepticons closer. Optimus realizes that the Decepticons will outnumber them and orders a retreat, telling Ratchet to load their fellow Autobots into his new form's trailer while he fends off their opponents. He reaches for his [[ion blaster]] but is intercepted by cannon fire from a revived [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]. As he recovers, he sees Bumblebee's remains, cradling him in despair before being beset by Starscream and [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]]. Seeing this, Spike and Carly run out and push Prime's blaster to him, allowing him to fight back.

[[File:TF2023 – Prime & Ratchet vehicle modes.jpg|thumb|left|250px]]
Left with no choice, Optimus fires at Teletraan One, destroying the computer and preventing the remaining Decepticons from being reconstructed. As Teletraan explodes, Optimus grabs Carly and Spike. He and Ratchet transform and drive out of the ''Ark'' into the mountains below, Starscream and Skywarp in hot pursuit despite their low [[energon]] levels. Jetfire regains consciousness and follows after them, firing on Starscream much to his regret. Starscream volleys back, critically wounding Jetfire. Fortunately for the Autobots, Skywarp begins to run out of energy and the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]] are forced to retreat.

Needing to recuperate, Spike leads the Autobots to an abandoned quarry. As he succumbs to his injuries, Jetfire apologizes to Optimus; so much has changed since he left Cybertron in hopes of saving it. Optimus tries to use the [[Matrix of Leadership]] to heal Jetfire, but Ratchet tells him that his injuries are too great. Optimus grips his old friend's hand as he passes, still lamenting his failure.

Back in the ''Ark'', Soundwave reports to Starscream that he is unable to fix Teletraan One, as they lack both the energon and the raw materials necessary. Until it is repaired, they are the only Decepticons left. Soundwave has already sent [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] to scout for possible energon sources, but the job of harvesting it falls to Starscream since he has the most energon reserved. Begrudgingly, Starscream accepts. After all, he is leader of the Decepticons now.

As Davey and Sparkplug end their shift at the nearby power plant, Davey tries to talk to Sparkplug about his recent troubles, but they are interrupted by the arrival of Starscream, irritated he has to be the one doing all the work. The pair try to escape, but Starscream notices them. Sparkplug hides inside the plant, while Davey is snatched up by the giant alien. Starscream smiles to himself as he crushes Davey in his hand, amused at how fragile, squishy, and pathetic the humans are.

{{--}}

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (2)
* [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] (11)
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] (12)
* [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] (13)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (14)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (15)
* [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] (16)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (18)
* [[Hound (G1)|Hound]]’s arm (19)

|c2=
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (8)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (9)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (10)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (20)
* [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]] (21)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (22)

|c3=
* [[Sparkplug Witwicky]] (1)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (3)
* [[Danny]] (4)
* [[Jerry (G1)|Jerry]] (5)
* [[Davey]] (6)
* [[Carly]] (7)

|c4=
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] (17)
}}

==Quotes==
"Where are you going? Isn't that... Jimmy's?" 
"Yeah. Carly and I were going to check out the full moon tonight, remember? On top of Hanger's Rock?" 
"Looking at '''stars''' again, huh?" 
"Doing this kind of thing... it reminds me of him." 
"Why would you want to remember? It's best to '''forget''' all that." 
"Is that how you're gonna '''live''' now? Just pretending he didn't '''exist?'''" 
:—'''Sparkplug''' and '''Spike''' touch on their trauma

"You must forgive me. I have been away for centuries. I did not know about the war. I did not know you were the new Prime..." 
"I remember the day you left our home to find a way to save it." 
"And you... were so young then." 
"Much has changed since you left our planet. All for the worse." 
:—'''Jetfire''' and '''Optimus Prime''' rekindle their friendship

"Why are you all looking at '''me?'''" 
"You have the most energon reserved. Thus the harvesting is up to '''you.''' It's what Meg---" 
"'''Do not''' say his name. '''I''' am the leader of the Decepticons now."
:—'''Starscream''' and '''Soundwave'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Jetfire's arrival on Earth follows from his awakening in [[Void Rivals issue 1|the first issue]] of ''[[Void Rivals]]''. How long he was asleep exactly is a little unclear. In ''Void Rivals'', he mentions being stranded for millions of years, but here he says he was away for merely centuries. Due to the syntax used, it could be that Jetfire was ''searching'' for centuries but ''asleep'' for millions of years. The following issue confirms the centuries time frame, making ''Void Rivals'' use of millions of years the outlier.
* Cybertron's energon shortage was hinted at by [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] in ''Void Rivals'' [[Void Rivals issue 4|#4]].
* After being attacked by Starscream, Jetfire is seen leaking yellow fluid. This would appear to confirm that the yellow fuel used by [[Darak]] and [[Solila]] to reactivate him was indeed energon.
* Soundwave and Starscream allude to the absence of the usual Decepticon leader, [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]. Hmm... [[Cobra Commander (comic)|where could he be]]?
* Yes, Bumblebee's really dead, having been destroyed by Starscream. The other Transformers, including those like Thundercracker whose reassembly is interrupted, are just offline.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Thundercracker's not killed, he just was not fully built. [...] S'not like I shot him in the heart or something. Just FYI.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3774s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>

===Transformers references===
* Like with ''Void Rivals'', this new series draws heavy influence from the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]]:
** The character designs all pull directly from Generation 1.
** The ''Ark'' crashing into a mountain and the Autobots and Decepticons being repaired by Teletraan One is lifted from the premiere episode, "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]", right down to one of the Decepticons being reactivated first. The "error" of the Transformers having their Earth-inspired designs before they receive their Earth alternate modes is also carried over.
** Spike and Carly both originate from the Generation 1 cartoon, though they have been heavily reimagined, especially Carly.
** Starscream and Jetfire/Skyfire being old friends, as well as Jetfire dying after dogfighting Starscream, brings to mind "[[Fire in the Sky]]."
[[The Transformers (Marvel Comic)|The Transformers]]
**Sparkplug originates from the Marvel Comic.
* Optimus Prime gains the upper hand over Starscream with a fist and a resounding "never", similar to ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.
* This [[Darkness Rising, Part 1|isn't the]] [[Infiltration issue 1|first time]] a new ''Transformers'' series launched with Starscream in command in lieu of Megatron.

===Real-world references===
* Sparkplug's flashbacks on the first page of the issue features imagery of Sparkplug in a conflict much like the [[Vietnam War]] and the explosion of a space shuttle reminiscent of the {{w|Space Shuttle Challenger disaster|Space Shuttle ''Challenger'' disaster}}; based on the context, it seems likely that Jimmy was one of the victims in the latter. Whether these are meant to literally be those events (which would suggest the comic is actually supposed to be set in the 1980s) or merely stylistic renderings of purely fictional events remains to be seen.
* Appropriately, Sparkplug is drinking at a {{w|Veterans of Foreign Wars|VFW}} bar.
* Carly's van art features several staples of van murals, such as a wizard inspired by {{w|Gandalf}} from ''{{w|The Lord of the Rings}}'', a barbarian resembling {{w|Conan the Barbarian|Conan}}, and a fantasy castle and dragon.
* Optimus Prime enters the scene by ''clotheslining'' Starscream—this being the signature move of "Rainmaker" Kazuchika Okada, one of DWJ's favorite wrestlers.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=And of course, next we have a rainmaker clothesline, as one does. This is a wrestling move, this is one of my favorite wrestlers, Kazuchika Okada from New Japan Pro Wrestling. Of course, you know, the rainmaker, the lariat, is not new in professional wrestling, and by the end of this series it will not be new to Transformers.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2508s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref><ref>[https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x34jfv6 Kazuchika Okada's Finisher- Rainmaker on Dailymotion]</ref>

===Storytelling notes===
As both writer and artist on this ''Transformers'' series, Daniel Warren Johnson has a rare level of creative freedom while composing the issue and using the art to tell the story. Some of these creative choices were covered in a "director's commentary" livestream on his YouTube channel; key insights are reproduced here alongside our own analysis of the issue.
* DWJ keeps a copy of [[IP infringement|Magic Square]]'s "Light of Peace" figure close at hand, which influences his take on Optimus Prime.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=This is the Optimus Prime figure that Magic Square put out this past year in 2023. It's an update, so it has a new head sculpt, it looks just like the movie, the '86 movie which of course has been my bible. He looks so good that you can actually like, kind of pose him, and he looks pretty dynamic. And I knew that, man, if the toy looks this cool in real life, then I can make him look really cool... like look at this, it looks great, he looks kind of alive.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=798s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> He notes that he specifically avoids having Prime's "boots" flare out at all; he tries to draw them perfectly straight.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Another thing that I'll notice, that I'll give you a little preview of things to come artwise: you'll see Optimus's legs, you know, traditionally, you know, he's got kind of the 1970s design aesthetic here, which I think the Marvel Comics did, where, you know, the leg kind of comes out... like so it makes kind of like a boot cut kind of style for his like lower half of his leg. And I hate drawing that. I hate drawing that. Look how straight these legs are. As this series goes on you're going to see these legs get straighter and straighter. It's a stylistic thing something that I've been kind of like- it's been bugging me about drawing Optimus Prime, and it's just, I cannot stand drawing those legs widening out at the bottom. It's like, something about it, it just like, makes my eyes hurt. I've never liked it in the comics, it always read weird to me that they got wider. Some characters- like I remember when practicing, I was drawing Jazz. Jazz gets really wide, and if it's like, if it's really confident, like big and chunky, or Cliffjumper, big, chunky, no big deal. This? Like, Optimus's legs going wider? It just like, is it going wider is it not going w- anyway these are the ramblings of a crazy lunatic comic book artist.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2699s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* His primary ''Transformers'' comics influence comes from [[Marvel Comics]] and [[Dreamwave Productions]].<ref>{{citesocial|quote=I wanted to just highlight this poster that I had in my bedroom when I was like 16, when Pat Lee made this imagery. You know, I was a huge ''Transformers'' fan of course when I was growing up, and I read mostly the Marvel Comics, 'cause that was the only thing that was available at the time, and here we have the Pat Lee comics of course that Dreamwave put out. I was so excited, I thought it looked awesome. I still do appreciate its blockiness now. So this is another reason why I wanted to do the project, 'cause like I just remember these feelings, and these like super bright colors that like were so awesome... and just being excited with like every cover, and I just felt like a kid. [...] And of course this image, like this is very satisfying, I knew I didn't want to get this bulbous with the designs, but you know I can't say I wasn't influenced by the absolutely outlandishness of these kind of like larger-than-life characters, so.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=997s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> In the case of the latter, we'll note that [[Prime Directive|their opening miniseries]] prominently featured the ''[[Ark II]]'' disaster which drew heavily from the real-world Space Shuttle ''Challenger'' disaster.
* The first page of the story consists of five vertically-stacked cinematic landscape panels, with Sparkplug's flashbacks interspersed by a panel of the Ark crashing and of Prime's deactivated body. This gives us an idea of what's been going through Sparkplug's mind at the bar. In particular, the panel of Optimus Prime is bookended by Spike's offscreen dialogue getting his dad's attention; Prime is often positioned as something of a father figure in wider pop culture.
** At Hasbro's request, DWJ avoided being too specific as to the conflict being shown.<ref name=HasbroMandates>{{citesocial|quote=So here we've got the first page, and you can kind of see here, Hasbro wanted me to be be very like... don't show what kind of war it is... which is fine, and I did have to change these engines from three engines, which I just thought was a little cleaner, to five engines, like the Ark is, so I didn't think they'd care that much about being on model when it came to the Ark but they did!|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0?t=1316s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
** DWJ wanted to streamline the Ark's design to have just three rear thrusters, but Hasbro insisted on it having five,<ref name=HasbroMandates /> necessitating the digital addition of two more to the later splash page of the ship's engines.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=So again, I had to make a bit of an edit. The original art has just three engines, so I had to add these digitally—which I did not want to do, but Hasbro wanted it, so, okay, you know? It's okay, it's okay, it's all right, it is what it is...|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1845s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* The second page aims to bring the story into reality,<ref name=Page2>{{citesocial|quote=I really wanted to go all in on the first half of this page, and like really sell to you how lived in this world is. Even though it's a ''Transformers'' book it was very important to me that we got a vibe and a sense of where the human characters come from. And there's nothing more fun, than drawing the heck out of, than like a crappy VW hall. [...] It was a hard thing to draw, but it was also fun. I had to kind of photobash a bunch of different VFW bars—obviously didn't want to take from any one specifically, or any one bar specifically, just kind of taking the best of everything and kind of combining it into one. And this bartender, Danny the bartender, I'm a big fan of, he just kind of stands there. And of course the old guy that maybe has seen something crazy... total shout out to—even his like haircut is the same as, and the hat, as—''{{w|The Iron Giant}}'', so a little shout out there. [...] It doesn't really [take place in a specific time period like the '80s or '90s] in my opinion, there might be other people in the Energon Universe that have a different time, we don't really have a time period in place. I find time periods in comics like ''Transformers'' to be completely unnecessary. If I'm trying to make historical fiction then of course it is important, but when it comes to making things like the Transformers I have just never cared. JFK is not getting assassinated in the background on television here, so it's just not part of the story. But you will notice there's no cell phones, so. But that's cuz I hate writing stories with cell phones in them.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1406s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> with much more detailed panels of varying shapes and sizes, and a muted earthen color palette.
** DWJ took reference from several different {{w|Veterans of Foreign Wars|VFW}} bars to arrive at the location seen in the comic.<ref name=Page2 />
** As Spike and Sparkplug exit, the cluttered interior gives way to the orange evening sky, with the generous negative space often physically separating Spike from his distant father.
** DWJ notes that the final panel of this spread is technically wrong; based on the perspective of the scene, Spike should be sinking into the ground. This was necessary so as not to obscure Carly's van,<ref>{{citesocial|quote=I have a bit of a goof, a bit of a mistake [...] if you actually like do the perspective here, the way it should be done, it makes no sense. He would be sinking into the ground, he's like in quicksand right now, but I could not figure out a better dynamic shot choice that would show Carly and her artistic ability with this van. Like I tried to do it like this way, and it didn't really work, because it covered up too much of the van, and I realized just how big he would have to be, like his whole face would have to be like over here and it just didn't work. I wanted him to be in the middle, but then it also didn't make sense. So I was just like beating my head against the wall like, I hope this is okay, I hope people don't notice.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0?si=QxISYwvu5QpUEbhw&t=1516s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> which is the same model of vehicle that appears in DWJ's previous original comic series ''[https://www.skybound.com/murder-falcon Murder Falcon]''.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Of course the dragon wagon, the van used in ''Murder Falcon''.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1578s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> Mike Spicer has coloured the van using blue-pink tones, strongly contrasting with the orange otherwise dominating the spread. As we turn the page, these nighttime hues take over the story, marking the beginning of a transition towards the unreal.
* The mountain landscape was drawn to resemble that of an alien planet, to highlight the feeling of "otherworldliness".<ref>{{citesocial|quote=This also is one of my favorite panels in the book. I wanted to start getting a little crazy, a little more intense with the shot choices, to kind of start getting us into the vibe of otherworldliness. This looks a little bit like they're exploring Mars, that was the goal, completely clear sky, really pushing the envelope when it comes to dynamic composition.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1635s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* As the earthquake begins, we get the first instance of hand-lettered sound effects, drawn into the lineart by DWJ. These appear more prominently and frequently as we transition towards comic-book action.
[[File:TF2023 1 Splash pages composition.jpg|thumb|right|upright=2|Diagram illustrating DWJ's intended flow for the back-to-back splash pages.]]
* The reveal of the Ark is paired across the two-page spread with another splash page of the deactivated Autobots. DWJ hoped to create a seamless transition, with the reader's gaze travelling down towards the inset panels at the bottom left, then following Spike and Carly across to the right, before travelling up into the scene.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=This was a goal, this was the goal: to have these pages be bleeding into each other. [...] You know I don't like to do this very often, you have like two splash pages back-to-back, because they kind of like... it gets a little messy here. But you know I usually like- if I have a big splash here [on the left], I'll usually have something a little more reserved over here [on the right], and I won't have it bleed over to the left side of the page. But with here, you'll actually notice that I was trying to get people to read from... obviously you're reading here, then you go down, left to right, into this bottom part of the page, and have your eye trail up instead of going over here [diagonally across the center fold] to the top. So I was using these kind of inset panels to kind of get you to read that way.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1985s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> Mike Spicer's coloring (exaggerated in the diagram on the right) again reinforces this intent, with the blue shade of the rocks at the bottom of the right-hand page carrying over from the left-hand page.
** Meanwhile, all of the lines of perspective inside the room point outside, where a tiny Jetfire can be seen approaching.
* Jetfire is one of Robert Kirkman's favorite Transformers, and his role in this series came entirely from Robert Kirkman's broad-strokes outline.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=So, full disclosure: Robert Kirkman came up with the Jetfire idea. Jetfire is one of Robert's favorite Transformers, and that's why he was chosen. He's also like part of the lore and it was kind of like in this big outline that Jetfire was the one that comes in and finds the Autobots on Earth in the Ark- Autobots and Decepticons. But he doesn't have knowledge about the war. So you know I can't give away too much, but that was a Robert Kirkman call, and I was happy to do it. I was a little afraid about drawing Jetfire at first, but I'm actually- of course I write the script first where he dies, because it's just what the story needed, but then as I got to drawing him I was like, "I really like drawing this guy, I'm so sad I have to kill him!"|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3301s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* The shock death of Bumblebee was a deliberate choice, as DWJ felt like audiences would be getting a little tired of seeing Bumblebee everywhere. Surprisingly, Hasbro felt the same way, and themselves asked if there was a way to write Bumblebee out of the series! DWJ also apparently doesn't enjoy drawing Bumblebee, which informed the decision,<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Let me be totally honest about the Bumblebee page, let me address this. I do really- I do like Bumblebee. I don't like drawing Bumblebee, I don't like those rivets in his arms. That's not the only reason why he had to go, I just honestly wanted to change things up. I just wanted to change things up, and I had seen a lot of Bumblebee, I think we all have, in a lot of ''Transformers'' media, and I just thought it would be a fun little swerve. And this is actually funny, our contact over at Hasbro was also a little tired of seeing Bumblebee everywhere, and he actually asked, before he saw my script, he's like, "is there any way we can not use Bumblebee in the main line?" And I told him, I was like, "I got good news for you!" He had to go, he had to go. Sorry Bumblebee fans, sorry to let you down like that, I am so sorry. They are Transformers, maybe they'll come back... but not for a long time. It's Cliff's time baby! You said it!|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2545s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> which perhaps doesn't bode too well for Cliffjumper!
* When Starscream turns on Jetfire, DWJ struggled to get the composition exactly right, as he was limited by the need to make it explicitly clear that Jetfire was gravely wounded.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=I wanted to make sure that everybody knew that Jetfire was gravely injured by this blast, which means I couldn't really white it out, had to be clear.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2498s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* Prime uses several wrestling moves on Starscream; DWJ had previously created the original comic series ''[https://imagecomics.com/comics/series/do-a-powerbomb Do A Powerbomb!]'', which had a central theme of loss—a motif which recurs throughout this first ''Transformers'' issue.
* As Starscream, Skywarp and Thundercracker look identical in black-and-white, DWJ labels them in his lineart so colorist Mike Spicer can easily distinguish.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Also notice the color notes I had to leave for Mike, because Skywarp and Starcream look exactly alike in black and white.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2839s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* Prime instinctively knowing about his trailer, and its sudden appearance in the story, is a riff on classic media where Prime's trailer would often appear and disappear out of nowhere per the needs of the story.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=This is a little shoutout to like, the not-making-any-sense of ''Transformers'', where you know, very conveniently, this trailer just shows up out of nowhere. So you know, Prime's like, "What are we going to do?" and he's like, "We could use my trailer!" Look sometimes you just have to have fun and not think too much about the story.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3131s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* As Prime's face is uniquely inexpressive, DWJ had to get creative to show his emotions to the reader, relying a lot on the character's eyes. Additionally, he tries to channel Prime's feelings through Spike.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Optimus is a character that does not emote—less so than even the rest of the cast, because of the face shield, because so much of his face is taken up, and he's really only got those eyes to work with. And I found that I was needing a way to channel Optimus through something, and I'm kind of trying to channel that through Spike, if you can't tell. I have a tendency to not be subtle, so... in life and in comics.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3516s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> When Spike sees Prime kneeling over Bumblebee's body, it seems that he recognises the grief this alien robot is experiencing.
* Amongst the many creative sound effects in this sequence, we have highlights like "GRAPPLE" and "ROLL" accompanying the action. Clicks and buzzes fill the air together with the floating components as the Transformers are reassembled.
* DWJ contrived the situation where Spike and Carly need to push Prime's gun into his reach as a way of giving the human characters agency during the action sequence.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Sliding the gun! Super fun! I rewrote this scene a few times because the humans were just sitting, screaming, you know? Spike and Carly like, "Oh my god, what's happening!?" behind some rocks, and I was like, "They need to have some agency, they need to get involved somehow." And so that is why I had them push the gun, and it forces action, it just forces movement in a story, it gives Spike personality and like bravery, and I'm very happy with this moment. It's very hard to not just write fight scenes where it's just like fight fight fight fight fight, and finding new ways to tie everybody together, and I wish I had more time to do this but of course we work in genre fiction where there are deadlines, and sometimes that can't happen, but I was glad that I was able to figure this one out.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3543s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> The "SKRKK" sound effect of the gun scraping along the floor is drawn to follow the lines of action.
* When Prime gives the order to "Transform and roll out!", the ''entire comic'' shifts to a landscape orientation, requiring you to physically turn the comic in your hands. This is awesome.
* Ratchet's updated alternate mode came simply from a dissatisfaction with his classic Nissan look.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Any reason you went with a more modern style van, a Ford Transit rather than the traditional Nissan Vanette for Ratchet? You know what, I just didn't like the way the Nissan looked, so I just, I really wanted something different. I just wanted something different, so.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2966s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* DWJ was keen to develop the Decepticons beyond their classic cartoonishly-evil characterisation, with a key example in this issue being Soundwave's clear concern for the injured Ravage.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=It's all about this, baby. It's all about trying to give some... you know... something other than... "The Decepticons are all evil, raah!" Like, Soundwave is a bad dude—but man, he loves his tapes, and one of these tapes is hurting bad and he's feeling real bad about it.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=4410s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* For Davey's gruesome death at the hand of Starscream, Hasbro requested it occur off-panel. The beat was intended to clearly set the stakes of the comic without being egregiously gory,<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Hasbro asked for Davey to be killed offscreen, which I was totally fine with. Did want to get kind of messy with it, though, because I did want to kind of make a little bit of a statement. You know, it's a book that your kids can read, but you know, not everybody's going to make it, so.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=4593s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> and seems to mark a major turning point for Sparkplug.

===Errors===
* Bumblebee's body is seen near Optimus Prime’s trailer, despite him being across the ship near Teletraan One when Starscream blew his head open.
* When Starscream is forced to break off his pursuit of the Autobots, his speech balloon is pointing to Skywarp.

===Other trivia===
* Prior to its official release, an ashcan copy of this issue was available exclusively at [[San Diego Comic-Con]] 2023. The ashcan had certain pages taken out to prevent spoilers, as well as featuring concept art and designs for various characters.
* In early solicitations for this issue, the cover had an original logo with blue text broken over two lines;<ref>[https://www.previewsworld.com/Catalog/AUG230407 ''Transformers'' #1 CVR A JOHNSON on PREVIEWSworld]</ref> the final cover uses the standard modern logo, leaving some unsightly negative space above Prime's head. This was changed at the request of Hasbro.
* This issue sold out at the distributor level before it was even officially released, prompting Skybound to announce a second printing the day before it hit retailer shelves.

===Covers===
With over 50 to choose from, ''Transformers'' #1 features more variant covers than any other single ''Transformers'' comic issue ''by a long shot''.
{{comicstub|49/55 covers documented}}
* '''Cover A:''' Optimus Prime emerges from an explosion, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' The Autobots, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' The Decepticons, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover D:''' Optimus Prime destroys Starscream, by [[Ryan Ottley]] and [[Annalisa Leoni]].
* '''Cover E (1:10 Copy Incentive):''' Connecting cover, by [[Orlando Arocena]].
* '''Cover F (1:25 Copy Incentive):''' Optimus leaps on Starscream to save Carly's van as Laserbeak and Ravage attack, by [[Cliff Chiang]].
* '''Cover G (1:50 Copy Incentive):''' Optimus Prime, by [[Francis Manapul]].
* '''Cover H (1:100 Copy Incentive Foil):''' Starscream holds Bumblebee’s head, by [[Ian Bertram]] and [[Gus Storms]].
* '''Cover I:''' Blank sketch cover.
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover A:''' Optimus Prime, by [[Jason Howard]].
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover B:''' Starscream, by Jason Howard.
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover C:''' The 'Bots, by [[Lewis LaRosa]] and [[Rico Renzi]].
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover D:''' The 'Cons, by Lewis LaRosa and Rico Renzi.
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover E:''' Bumblebee's fate, by [[Greg Tocchini]].
* '''Third Printing Variant Cover:''' by [[Gerald Parel]].
* '''Alan Quah exclusive:''' by [[Alan Quah]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Big Clutch/[[eBay]] exclusive:''' Foil variant of main cover A. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Big Time Collectibles exclusive A:''' by [[John Giang]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Big Time Collectibles exclusive B:''' Foil variant. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Carnivore Comics exclusive A:''' by [[Rafael Grassetti]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Carnivore Comics exclusive B:''' Virgin variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Carnivore Comics exclusive C:''' Foil variant. Limited to 1,000 copies, exclusively at New York Comic Con 2023.
* '''Comic Grail Vault exclusive A:''' by [[Von Randal]] and [[Alex Guimarães]]. Limited to 800 copies.
* '''Comic Grail Vault exclusive B:''' Foil variant.
* '''Condemned Comics exclusive:''' by [[Christopher Mitten]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''DarlsDraws exclusive:''' by [[Alina Rojas]]. Limited to 300 copies.
* '''Felix Comic Art exclusive A:''' Wraparound variant of Optimus Prime playing basketball against the Decepticons, by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Felix Comic Art exclusive B:''' Black-and-white virgin variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Forbidden Planet exclusive A:''' by [[Flaviano Armentaro]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Forbidden Planet exclusive B:''' Virgin variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Francesco Tomaselli New York Comic Con exclusive:''' by [[Francesco Tomaselli]]. Limited to 900 copies.
* '''Hector Trunnec New York Comic Con exclusive:''' by [[Hector Trunnec]]. Limited to 400 copies.
* '''Juni Ba exclusive A:''' by [[Juni Ba]]. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Juni Ba exclusive B:''' Foil variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Maria The Wolf exclusive A:''' by [[Maria Lopez]] & Mike Spicer. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Maria The Wolf exclusive B:''' Virgin variant. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Maria The Wolf exclusive C:''' Foil variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Matthew Roberts exclusive:''' by [[Matthew Roberts]].
* '''Memory Lane Comics exclusive:''' by [[Hayden Sherman]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''MFKiG exclusive:''' by [[Ainsworth Lin]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Mike Bowden New York Comic Con exclusive:''' by [[Mike Bowden]] and [[Pez Fred]]. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Rod Reis New York Comic Con exclusive:''' by [[Rod Reis]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Ryan Barry exclusive A:''' by [[Ryan Barry]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Ryan Barry exclusive B:''' Foil variant. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''San Diego Comic-Con Ashcan cover A:''' Spike atop Optimus Prime, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''San Diego Comic-Con Ashcan cover B:''' Black-and-white version, only available at Skybound's Energon Universe convention panel.
* '''Seibertron.com exclusive:''' by [[Marco Ferrari]].
* '''Skottie Young exclusive:''' by [[Skottie Young]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Skottie Young exclusive second printing:''' Virgin foil variant. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Stadium Comics exclusive:''' by [[Santa Fung]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''The 616 Comics exclusive:''' by [[Vincenzo Federici]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Things From Another World exclusive:''' by [[Frédéric Pham Chuong]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''TransMissions Podcast exclusive:''' by [[E. J. Su]].
* '''Whatnot exclusive A:''' by [[Siya Oum]].
* '''Whatnot exclusive B:''' Foil variant.

<gallery>
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File:Transformers 2023 1 Comic Grail Vault cvr.jpg|
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File:Transformers 2023 1 Felix Comic Art cvr B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 ForbiddenPlanet cvr.jpg|
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File:Transformers 2023 1 Francesco Tomaselli NYCC cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Hector Trunnec NYCC cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Juni Ba cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Juni Ba cvr B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Maria The Wolf cvr A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Maria The Wolf cvr B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Maria The Wolf cvr C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Memory Lane Comics cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 MFKiG cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Mike Bowden NYCC cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Rod Reis NYCC cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Ryan Barry cvr.jpg|
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File:Transformers 2023 1 SDCC AC cvr.jpg|

File:Transformers 2023 1 Seibertron.com cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Skottie Young cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Stadium Comics cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 The 616 Comics cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Things From Another World cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 TransMissions Podcast cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Whatnot cvr A.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Explore the [[Energon Universe]] in ''Void Rivals''
* Codename: G.I. Joe starts in ''[[Duke (comic)|Duke]]'' #1
* The rise of [[Cobra]] starts in ''[[Cobra Commander (comic)|Cobra Commander]]'' #1
* A new era for G.I. Joe starts in ''[[G.I. Joe (comic)|G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero]]'' #301
* ''Murder Falcon'' Deluxe Hardcover available now

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 1''''' ([[May 7]], [[2024]]) ISBN 1534398171 / ISBN 978-1534398177 
** Collects issues #1-6.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V1.jpg|'''''Volume 1''''' – cover art by [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] and [[Mike Spicer]]
</gallery>

==External links==
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0 Director's commentary by Daniel Warren Johnson]

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Transformers (2023) issue 1

2023-12-03T00:27:18Z

YoungDoctor: /* Transformers references */

{{Comicstory
|seriesissue=''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' #1
|prev=Void Rivals issue 1
|next=Transformers (2023) issue 2
|prev2=
|image=Transformers 2023 1 cvr.jpg
|caption=Alright, let’s do this one more time.
|title=
|publisher=[[Image Comics]] [[Skybound Entertainment]]
|date=[[October 4]], [[2023]]
|coverdate=October 2023
|written by=[[Daniel Warren Johnson]]
|art by=Daniel Warren Johnson
|colors by=[[Mike Spicer]]
|letters by=[[Rus Wooton]]
|editor=[[Sean Mackiewicz]]
|continuity=[[Energon Universe]]
|chronology=
}}

'''After centuries of slumber, the Autobots and Decepticons awaken on a strange new world.'''

==Synopsis==
[[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] finds his father, [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]], asleep in a bar. Spike asks his father how long he’s been there, to which [[Danny]] the bartender answers since noon. Sparkplug notices that Spike has his brother [[Jimmy Witwicky|Jimmy]]'s telescope with him. Spike tells him that he and [[Carly]] were planning to go up to [[Hanger's Rock]] to look at the full moon. He says it helps him remember Jimmy, to which Sparkplug grouses that it's better to just forget. Spike fires back at his father, telling him he won't end up like Jimmy. Meanwhile, [[Jerry (G1)|another patron]] is drunkenly ranting about how he saw a giant boxy jet fly down from space. Their conversation is interrupted by the arrival of Sparkplug's co-worker, [[Davey]], here to pick him up for their shifts. Sparkplug tells Spike that he has to grow up eventually, to which Spike angrily asks if he means being like him. As the adults drive off, Carly arrives to pick Spike up in her van. Carly consoles a dejected Spike by suggesting they go "pretend they're on another planet."

At Hanger's Rock, the pair climb the mountain in search of a better view and discuss their future ambitions. Spike has recently been accepted to the [[University of California, Berkeley]], where he wishes to follow in Jimmy's footsteps and become an astronaut, though he's reluctant to actually tell his father about it since Jimmy's death. Carly, meanwhile, has been looking at art schools, but she and her father are struggling to make it work financially. Carly takes Spike's hand in hers, telling him how sorry she is about what’s going on with his family. As the two teenagers lean in closer, an earthquake shakes the ground, causing the mountain to split open and sending the two plummeting into the depths below. Recovering, they find themselves inside a giant circular structure — the booster of [[Ark (G1)|a giant spacecraft]]. Spike ventures further inside the spacecraft and finds the main control room, littered with the mangled bodies of what appears to be some sort of giant robots.

[[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] flies into the ''Ark'' and transforms, grateful to have found his fallen friends. He activates [[Teletraan I|Teletraan One]] to repair and reconstruct his fellow Cybertronians, granting them new forms he found on [[Earth]]. The first to be reactivated is [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]. Jetfire warmly greets his old friend, having not seen him in centuries. Starscream thanks Jetfire for waking him and says that he's glad he "picked the right side" before immediately turning to the nearby [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] and blasting his head off. The stunned Jetfire, unaware that their people have been at war for the past hundred years, tries to stop him, but Starscream turns his weapons on his old friend for showing weakness. Starscream aims his weapon at [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] next, but he is stopped by a reconstructed [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]!

As the [[Autobot]] leader and [[Decepticon]] warrior fight, Prime notices the humans and instinctively dives to protect them from Starscream’s fire. Starscream's attack is halted by the intervention of [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]], right as Teletraan One reconstructs [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]. Realizing the computer is reconstructing them randomly, Starscream tells Skywarp to bring their fellow Decepticons closer. Optimus realizes that the Decepticons will outnumber them and orders a retreat, telling Ratchet to load their fellow Autobots into his new form's trailer while he fends off their opponents. He reaches for his [[ion blaster]] but is intercepted by cannon fire from a revived [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]. As he recovers, he sees Bumblebee's remains, cradling him in despair before being beset by Starscream and [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]]. Seeing this, Spike and Carly run out and push Prime's blaster to him, allowing him to fight back.

[[File:TF2023 – Prime & Ratchet vehicle modes.jpg|thumb|left|250px]]
Left with no choice, Optimus fires at Teletraan One, destroying the computer and preventing the remaining Decepticons from being reconstructed. As Teletraan explodes, Optimus grabs Carly and Spike. He and Ratchet transform and drive out of the ''Ark'' into the mountains below, Starscream and Skywarp in hot pursuit despite their low [[energon]] levels. Jetfire regains consciousness and follows after them, firing on Starscream much to his regret. Starscream volleys back, critically wounding Jetfire. Fortunately for the Autobots, Skywarp begins to run out of energy and the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]] are forced to retreat.

Needing to recuperate, Spike leads the Autobots to an abandoned quarry. As he succumbs to his injuries, Jetfire apologizes to Optimus; so much has changed since he left Cybertron in hopes of saving it. Optimus tries to use the [[Matrix of Leadership]] to heal Jetfire, but Ratchet tells him that his injuries are too great. Optimus grips his old friend's hand as he passes, still lamenting his failure.

Back in the ''Ark'', Soundwave reports to Starscream that he is unable to fix Teletraan One, as they lack both the energon and the raw materials necessary. Until it is repaired, they are the only Decepticons left. Soundwave has already sent [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] to scout for possible energon sources, but the job of harvesting it falls to Starscream since he has the most energon reserved. Begrudgingly, Starscream accepts. After all, he is leader of the Decepticons now.

As Davey and Sparkplug end their shift at the nearby power plant, Davey tries to talk to Sparkplug about his recent troubles, but they are interrupted by the arrival of Starscream, irritated he has to be the one doing all the work. The pair try to escape, but Starscream notices them. Sparkplug hides inside the plant, while Davey is snatched up by the giant alien. Starscream smiles to himself as he crushes Davey in his hand, amused at how fragile, squishy, and pathetic the humans are.

{{--}}

==Featured characters==
Characters in ''italic text'' appear only in flashbacks. 
{{Featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] (2)
* [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] (11)
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] (12)
* [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] (13)
* [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] (14)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (15)
* [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] (16)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (18)
* [[Hound (G1)|Hound]]’s arm (19)

|c2=
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (8)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (9)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (10)
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (20)
* [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]] (21)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (22)

|c3=
* [[Sparkplug Witwicky]] (1)
* [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]] (3)
* [[Danny]] (4)
* [[Jerry (G1)|Jerry]] (5)
* [[Davey]] (6)
* [[Carly]] (7)

|c4=
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] (17)
}}

==Quotes==
"Where are you going? Isn't that... Jimmy's?" 
"Yeah. Carly and I were going to check out the full moon tonight, remember? On top of Hanger's Rock?" 
"Looking at '''stars''' again, huh?" 
"Doing this kind of thing... it reminds me of him." 
"Why would you want to remember? It's best to '''forget''' all that." 
"Is that how you're gonna '''live''' now? Just pretending he didn't '''exist?'''" 
:—'''Sparkplug''' and '''Spike''' touch on their trauma

"You must forgive me. I have been away for centuries. I did not know about the war. I did not know you were the new Prime..." 
"I remember the day you left our home to find a way to save it." 
"And you... were so young then." 
"Much has changed since you left our planet. All for the worse." 
:—'''Jetfire''' and '''Optimus Prime''' rekindle their friendship

"Why are you all looking at '''me?'''" 
"You have the most energon reserved. Thus the harvesting is up to '''you.''' It's what Meg---" 
"'''Do not''' say his name. '''I''' am the leader of the Decepticons now."
:—'''Starscream''' and '''Soundwave'''

==Notes==
===Continuity notes===
* Jetfire's arrival on Earth follows from his awakening in [[Void Rivals issue 1|the first issue]] of ''[[Void Rivals]]''. How long he was asleep exactly is a little unclear. In ''Void Rivals'', he mentions being stranded for millions of years, but here he says he was away for merely centuries. Due to the syntax used, it could be that Jetfire was ''searching'' for centuries but ''asleep'' for millions of years. The following issue confirms the centuries time frame, making ''Void Rivals'' use of millions of years the outlier.
* Cybertron's energon shortage was hinted at by [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] in ''Void Rivals'' [[Void Rivals issue 4|#4]].
* After being attacked by Starscream, Jetfire is seen leaking yellow fluid. This would appear to confirm that the yellow fuel used by [[Darak]] and [[Solila]] to reactivate him was indeed energon.
* Soundwave and Starscream allude to the absence of the usual Decepticon leader, [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]. Hmm... [[Cobra Commander (comic)|where could he be]]?
* Yes, Bumblebee's really dead, having been destroyed by Starscream. The other Transformers, including those like Thundercracker whose reassembly is interrupted, are just offline.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Thundercracker's not killed, he just was not fully built. [...] S'not like I shot him in the heart or something. Just FYI.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3774s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>

===Transformers references===
* Like with ''Void Rivals'', this new series draws heavy influence from the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]]:
** The character designs all pull directly from Generation 1.
** The ''Ark'' crashing into a mountain and the Autobots and Decepticons being repaired by Teletraan One is lifted from the premiere episode, "[[More than Meets the Eye, Part 1]]", right down to one of the Decepticons being reactivated first. The "error" of the Transformers having their Earth-inspired designs before they receive their Earth alternate modes is also carried over.
** Spike and Carly both originate from the Generation 1 cartoon, though they have been heavily reimagined, especially Carly.
** Starscream and Jetfire/Skyfire being old friends, as well as Jetfire dying after dogfighting Starscream, brings to mind "[[Fire in the Sky]]."
[[The Transformers (Marvel Comic)|Marvel Comic]]
**Sparkplug originates from the Marvel Comic.
* Optimus Prime gains the upper hand over Starscream with a fist and a resounding "never", similar to ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''.
* This [[Darkness Rising, Part 1|isn't the]] [[Infiltration issue 1|first time]] a new ''Transformers'' series launched with Starscream in command in lieu of Megatron.

===Real-world references===
* Sparkplug's flashbacks on the first page of the issue features imagery of Sparkplug in a conflict much like the [[Vietnam War]] and the explosion of a space shuttle reminiscent of the {{w|Space Shuttle Challenger disaster|Space Shuttle ''Challenger'' disaster}}; based on the context, it seems likely that Jimmy was one of the victims in the latter. Whether these are meant to literally be those events (which would suggest the comic is actually supposed to be set in the 1980s) or merely stylistic renderings of purely fictional events remains to be seen.
* Appropriately, Sparkplug is drinking at a {{w|Veterans of Foreign Wars|VFW}} bar.
* Carly's van art features several staples of van murals, such as a wizard inspired by {{w|Gandalf}} from ''{{w|The Lord of the Rings}}'', a barbarian resembling {{w|Conan the Barbarian|Conan}}, and a fantasy castle and dragon.
* Optimus Prime enters the scene by ''clotheslining'' Starscream—this being the signature move of "Rainmaker" Kazuchika Okada, one of DWJ's favorite wrestlers.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=And of course, next we have a rainmaker clothesline, as one does. This is a wrestling move, this is one of my favorite wrestlers, Kazuchika Okada from New Japan Pro Wrestling. Of course, you know, the rainmaker, the lariat, is not new in professional wrestling, and by the end of this series it will not be new to Transformers.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2508s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref><ref>[https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x34jfv6 Kazuchika Okada's Finisher- Rainmaker on Dailymotion]</ref>

===Storytelling notes===
As both writer and artist on this ''Transformers'' series, Daniel Warren Johnson has a rare level of creative freedom while composing the issue and using the art to tell the story. Some of these creative choices were covered in a "director's commentary" livestream on his YouTube channel; key insights are reproduced here alongside our own analysis of the issue.
* DWJ keeps a copy of [[IP infringement|Magic Square]]'s "Light of Peace" figure close at hand, which influences his take on Optimus Prime.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=This is the Optimus Prime figure that Magic Square put out this past year in 2023. It's an update, so it has a new head sculpt, it looks just like the movie, the '86 movie which of course has been my bible. He looks so good that you can actually like, kind of pose him, and he looks pretty dynamic. And I knew that, man, if the toy looks this cool in real life, then I can make him look really cool... like look at this, it looks great, he looks kind of alive.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=798s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> He notes that he specifically avoids having Prime's "boots" flare out at all; he tries to draw them perfectly straight.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Another thing that I'll notice, that I'll give you a little preview of things to come artwise: you'll see Optimus's legs, you know, traditionally, you know, he's got kind of the 1970s design aesthetic here, which I think the Marvel Comics did, where, you know, the leg kind of comes out... like so it makes kind of like a boot cut kind of style for his like lower half of his leg. And I hate drawing that. I hate drawing that. Look how straight these legs are. As this series goes on you're going to see these legs get straighter and straighter. It's a stylistic thing something that I've been kind of like- it's been bugging me about drawing Optimus Prime, and it's just, I cannot stand drawing those legs widening out at the bottom. It's like, something about it, it just like, makes my eyes hurt. I've never liked it in the comics, it always read weird to me that they got wider. Some characters- like I remember when practicing, I was drawing Jazz. Jazz gets really wide, and if it's like, if it's really confident, like big and chunky, or Cliffjumper, big, chunky, no big deal. This? Like, Optimus's legs going wider? It just like, is it going wider is it not going w- anyway these are the ramblings of a crazy lunatic comic book artist.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2699s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* His primary ''Transformers'' comics influence comes from [[Marvel Comics]] and [[Dreamwave Productions]].<ref>{{citesocial|quote=I wanted to just highlight this poster that I had in my bedroom when I was like 16, when Pat Lee made this imagery. You know, I was a huge ''Transformers'' fan of course when I was growing up, and I read mostly the Marvel Comics, 'cause that was the only thing that was available at the time, and here we have the Pat Lee comics of course that Dreamwave put out. I was so excited, I thought it looked awesome. I still do appreciate its blockiness now. So this is another reason why I wanted to do the project, 'cause like I just remember these feelings, and these like super bright colors that like were so awesome... and just being excited with like every cover, and I just felt like a kid. [...] And of course this image, like this is very satisfying, I knew I didn't want to get this bulbous with the designs, but you know I can't say I wasn't influenced by the absolutely outlandishness of these kind of like larger-than-life characters, so.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=997s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> In the case of the latter, we'll note that [[Prime Directive|their opening miniseries]] prominently featured the ''[[Ark II]]'' disaster which drew heavily from the real-world Space Shuttle ''Challenger'' disaster.
* The first page of the story consists of five vertically-stacked cinematic landscape panels, with Sparkplug's flashbacks interspersed by a panel of the Ark crashing and of Prime's deactivated body. This gives us an idea of what's been going through Sparkplug's mind at the bar. In particular, the panel of Optimus Prime is bookended by Spike's offscreen dialogue getting his dad's attention; Prime is often positioned as something of a father figure in wider pop culture.
** At Hasbro's request, DWJ avoided being too specific as to the conflict being shown.<ref name=HasbroMandates>{{citesocial|quote=So here we've got the first page, and you can kind of see here, Hasbro wanted me to be be very like... don't show what kind of war it is... which is fine, and I did have to change these engines from three engines, which I just thought was a little cleaner, to five engines, like the Ark is, so I didn't think they'd care that much about being on model when it came to the Ark but they did!|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0?t=1316s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
** DWJ wanted to streamline the Ark's design to have just three rear thrusters, but Hasbro insisted on it having five,<ref name=HasbroMandates /> necessitating the digital addition of two more to the later splash page of the ship's engines.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=So again, I had to make a bit of an edit. The original art has just three engines, so I had to add these digitally—which I did not want to do, but Hasbro wanted it, so, okay, you know? It's okay, it's okay, it's all right, it is what it is...|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1845s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* The second page aims to bring the story into reality,<ref name=Page2>{{citesocial|quote=I really wanted to go all in on the first half of this page, and like really sell to you how lived in this world is. Even though it's a ''Transformers'' book it was very important to me that we got a vibe and a sense of where the human characters come from. And there's nothing more fun, than drawing the heck out of, than like a crappy VW hall. [...] It was a hard thing to draw, but it was also fun. I had to kind of photobash a bunch of different VFW bars—obviously didn't want to take from any one specifically, or any one bar specifically, just kind of taking the best of everything and kind of combining it into one. And this bartender, Danny the bartender, I'm a big fan of, he just kind of stands there. And of course the old guy that maybe has seen something crazy... total shout out to—even his like haircut is the same as, and the hat, as—''{{w|The Iron Giant}}'', so a little shout out there. [...] It doesn't really [take place in a specific time period like the '80s or '90s] in my opinion, there might be other people in the Energon Universe that have a different time, we don't really have a time period in place. I find time periods in comics like ''Transformers'' to be completely unnecessary. If I'm trying to make historical fiction then of course it is important, but when it comes to making things like the Transformers I have just never cared. JFK is not getting assassinated in the background on television here, so it's just not part of the story. But you will notice there's no cell phones, so. But that's cuz I hate writing stories with cell phones in them.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1406s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> with much more detailed panels of varying shapes and sizes, and a muted earthen color palette.
** DWJ took reference from several different {{w|Veterans of Foreign Wars|VFW}} bars to arrive at the location seen in the comic.<ref name=Page2 />
** As Spike and Sparkplug exit, the cluttered interior gives way to the orange evening sky, with the generous negative space often physically separating Spike from his distant father.
** DWJ notes that the final panel of this spread is technically wrong; based on the perspective of the scene, Spike should be sinking into the ground. This was necessary so as not to obscure Carly's van,<ref>{{citesocial|quote=I have a bit of a goof, a bit of a mistake [...] if you actually like do the perspective here, the way it should be done, it makes no sense. He would be sinking into the ground, he's like in quicksand right now, but I could not figure out a better dynamic shot choice that would show Carly and her artistic ability with this van. Like I tried to do it like this way, and it didn't really work, because it covered up too much of the van, and I realized just how big he would have to be, like his whole face would have to be like over here and it just didn't work. I wanted him to be in the middle, but then it also didn't make sense. So I was just like beating my head against the wall like, I hope this is okay, I hope people don't notice.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0?si=QxISYwvu5QpUEbhw&t=1516s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> which is the same model of vehicle that appears in DWJ's previous original comic series ''[https://www.skybound.com/murder-falcon Murder Falcon]''.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Of course the dragon wagon, the van used in ''Murder Falcon''.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1578s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> Mike Spicer has coloured the van using blue-pink tones, strongly contrasting with the orange otherwise dominating the spread. As we turn the page, these nighttime hues take over the story, marking the beginning of a transition towards the unreal.
* The mountain landscape was drawn to resemble that of an alien planet, to highlight the feeling of "otherworldliness".<ref>{{citesocial|quote=This also is one of my favorite panels in the book. I wanted to start getting a little crazy, a little more intense with the shot choices, to kind of start getting us into the vibe of otherworldliness. This looks a little bit like they're exploring Mars, that was the goal, completely clear sky, really pushing the envelope when it comes to dynamic composition.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1635s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* As the earthquake begins, we get the first instance of hand-lettered sound effects, drawn into the lineart by DWJ. These appear more prominently and frequently as we transition towards comic-book action.
[[File:TF2023 1 Splash pages composition.jpg|thumb|right|upright=2|Diagram illustrating DWJ's intended flow for the back-to-back splash pages.]]
* The reveal of the Ark is paired across the two-page spread with another splash page of the deactivated Autobots. DWJ hoped to create a seamless transition, with the reader's gaze travelling down towards the inset panels at the bottom left, then following Spike and Carly across to the right, before travelling up into the scene.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=This was a goal, this was the goal: to have these pages be bleeding into each other. [...] You know I don't like to do this very often, you have like two splash pages back-to-back, because they kind of like... it gets a little messy here. But you know I usually like- if I have a big splash here [on the left], I'll usually have something a little more reserved over here [on the right], and I won't have it bleed over to the left side of the page. But with here, you'll actually notice that I was trying to get people to read from... obviously you're reading here, then you go down, left to right, into this bottom part of the page, and have your eye trail up instead of going over here [diagonally across the center fold] to the top. So I was using these kind of inset panels to kind of get you to read that way.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=1985s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> Mike Spicer's coloring (exaggerated in the diagram on the right) again reinforces this intent, with the blue shade of the rocks at the bottom of the right-hand page carrying over from the left-hand page.
** Meanwhile, all of the lines of perspective inside the room point outside, where a tiny Jetfire can be seen approaching.
* Jetfire is one of Robert Kirkman's favorite Transformers, and his role in this series came entirely from Robert Kirkman's broad-strokes outline.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=So, full disclosure: Robert Kirkman came up with the Jetfire idea. Jetfire is one of Robert's favorite Transformers, and that's why he was chosen. He's also like part of the lore and it was kind of like in this big outline that Jetfire was the one that comes in and finds the Autobots on Earth in the Ark- Autobots and Decepticons. But he doesn't have knowledge about the war. So you know I can't give away too much, but that was a Robert Kirkman call, and I was happy to do it. I was a little afraid about drawing Jetfire at first, but I'm actually- of course I write the script first where he dies, because it's just what the story needed, but then as I got to drawing him I was like, "I really like drawing this guy, I'm so sad I have to kill him!"|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3301s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* The shock death of Bumblebee was a deliberate choice, as DWJ felt like audiences would be getting a little tired of seeing Bumblebee everywhere. Surprisingly, Hasbro felt the same way, and themselves asked if there was a way to write Bumblebee out of the series! DWJ also apparently doesn't enjoy drawing Bumblebee, which informed the decision,<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Let me be totally honest about the Bumblebee page, let me address this. I do really- I do like Bumblebee. I don't like drawing Bumblebee, I don't like those rivets in his arms. That's not the only reason why he had to go, I just honestly wanted to change things up. I just wanted to change things up, and I had seen a lot of Bumblebee, I think we all have, in a lot of ''Transformers'' media, and I just thought it would be a fun little swerve. And this is actually funny, our contact over at Hasbro was also a little tired of seeing Bumblebee everywhere, and he actually asked, before he saw my script, he's like, "is there any way we can not use Bumblebee in the main line?" And I told him, I was like, "I got good news for you!" He had to go, he had to go. Sorry Bumblebee fans, sorry to let you down like that, I am so sorry. They are Transformers, maybe they'll come back... but not for a long time. It's Cliff's time baby! You said it!|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2545s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> which perhaps doesn't bode too well for Cliffjumper!
* When Starscream turns on Jetfire, DWJ struggled to get the composition exactly right, as he was limited by the need to make it explicitly clear that Jetfire was gravely wounded.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=I wanted to make sure that everybody knew that Jetfire was gravely injured by this blast, which means I couldn't really white it out, had to be clear.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2498s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* Prime uses several wrestling moves on Starscream; DWJ had previously created the original comic series ''[https://imagecomics.com/comics/series/do-a-powerbomb Do A Powerbomb!]'', which had a central theme of loss—a motif which recurs throughout this first ''Transformers'' issue.
* As Starscream, Skywarp and Thundercracker look identical in black-and-white, DWJ labels them in his lineart so colorist Mike Spicer can easily distinguish.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Also notice the color notes I had to leave for Mike, because Skywarp and Starcream look exactly alike in black and white.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2839s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* Prime instinctively knowing about his trailer, and its sudden appearance in the story, is a riff on classic media where Prime's trailer would often appear and disappear out of nowhere per the needs of the story.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=This is a little shoutout to like, the not-making-any-sense of ''Transformers'', where you know, very conveniently, this trailer just shows up out of nowhere. So you know, Prime's like, "What are we going to do?" and he's like, "We could use my trailer!" Look sometimes you just have to have fun and not think too much about the story.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3131s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* As Prime's face is uniquely inexpressive, DWJ had to get creative to show his emotions to the reader, relying a lot on the character's eyes. Additionally, he tries to channel Prime's feelings through Spike.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Optimus is a character that does not emote—less so than even the rest of the cast, because of the face shield, because so much of his face is taken up, and he's really only got those eyes to work with. And I found that I was needing a way to channel Optimus through something, and I'm kind of trying to channel that through Spike, if you can't tell. I have a tendency to not be subtle, so... in life and in comics.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3516s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> When Spike sees Prime kneeling over Bumblebee's body, it seems that he recognises the grief this alien robot is experiencing.
* Amongst the many creative sound effects in this sequence, we have highlights like "GRAPPLE" and "ROLL" accompanying the action. Clicks and buzzes fill the air together with the floating components as the Transformers are reassembled.
* DWJ contrived the situation where Spike and Carly need to push Prime's gun into his reach as a way of giving the human characters agency during the action sequence.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Sliding the gun! Super fun! I rewrote this scene a few times because the humans were just sitting, screaming, you know? Spike and Carly like, "Oh my god, what's happening!?" behind some rocks, and I was like, "They need to have some agency, they need to get involved somehow." And so that is why I had them push the gun, and it forces action, it just forces movement in a story, it gives Spike personality and like bravery, and I'm very happy with this moment. It's very hard to not just write fight scenes where it's just like fight fight fight fight fight, and finding new ways to tie everybody together, and I wish I had more time to do this but of course we work in genre fiction where there are deadlines, and sometimes that can't happen, but I was glad that I was able to figure this one out.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=3543s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> The "SKRKK" sound effect of the gun scraping along the floor is drawn to follow the lines of action.
* When Prime gives the order to "Transform and roll out!", the ''entire comic'' shifts to a landscape orientation, requiring you to physically turn the comic in your hands. This is awesome.
* Ratchet's updated alternate mode came simply from a dissatisfaction with his classic Nissan look.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Any reason you went with a more modern style van, a Ford Transit rather than the traditional Nissan Vanette for Ratchet? You know what, I just didn't like the way the Nissan looked, so I just, I really wanted something different. I just wanted something different, so.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=2966s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* DWJ was keen to develop the Decepticons beyond their classic cartoonishly-evil characterisation, with a key example in this issue being Soundwave's clear concern for the injured Ravage.<ref>{{citesocial|quote=It's all about this, baby. It's all about trying to give some... you know... something other than... "The Decepticons are all evil, raah!" Like, Soundwave is a bad dude—but man, he loves his tapes, and one of these tapes is hurting bad and he's feeling real bad about it.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=4410s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref>
* For Davey's gruesome death at the hand of Starscream, Hasbro requested it occur off-panel. The beat was intended to clearly set the stakes of the comic without being egregiously gory,<ref>{{citesocial|quote=Hasbro asked for Davey to be killed offscreen, which I was totally fine with. Did want to get kind of messy with it, though, because I did want to kind of make a little bit of a statement. You know, it's a book that your kids can read, but you know, not everybody's going to make it, so.|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0&t=4593s|name=Daniel Warren Johnson|site=YouTube|title=TRANSFORMERS Issue 1 DIRECTOR'S COMMENTARY|year=2023|month=10|day=06}}</ref> and seems to mark a major turning point for Sparkplug.

===Errors===
* Bumblebee's body is seen near Optimus Prime’s trailer, despite him being across the ship near Teletraan One when Starscream blew his head open.
* When Starscream is forced to break off his pursuit of the Autobots, his speech balloon is pointing to Skywarp.

===Other trivia===
* Prior to its official release, an ashcan copy of this issue was available exclusively at [[San Diego Comic-Con]] 2023. The ashcan had certain pages taken out to prevent spoilers, as well as featuring concept art and designs for various characters.
* In early solicitations for this issue, the cover had an original logo with blue text broken over two lines;<ref>[https://www.previewsworld.com/Catalog/AUG230407 ''Transformers'' #1 CVR A JOHNSON on PREVIEWSworld]</ref> the final cover uses the standard modern logo, leaving some unsightly negative space above Prime's head. This was changed at the request of Hasbro.
* This issue sold out at the distributor level before it was even officially released, prompting Skybound to announce a second printing the day before it hit retailer shelves.

===Covers===
With over 50 to choose from, ''Transformers'' #1 features more variant covers than any other single ''Transformers'' comic issue ''by a long shot''.
{{comicstub|49/55 covers documented}}
* '''Cover A:''' Optimus Prime emerges from an explosion, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' The Autobots, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover C:''' The Decepticons, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover D:''' Optimus Prime destroys Starscream, by [[Ryan Ottley]] and [[Annalisa Leoni]].
* '''Cover E (1:10 Copy Incentive):''' Connecting cover, by [[Orlando Arocena]].
* '''Cover F (1:25 Copy Incentive):''' Optimus leaps on Starscream to save Carly's van as Laserbeak and Ravage attack, by [[Cliff Chiang]].
* '''Cover G (1:50 Copy Incentive):''' Optimus Prime, by [[Francis Manapul]].
* '''Cover H (1:100 Copy Incentive Foil):''' Starscream holds Bumblebee’s head, by [[Ian Bertram]] and [[Gus Storms]].
* '''Cover I:''' Blank sketch cover.
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover A:''' Optimus Prime, by [[Jason Howard]].
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover B:''' Starscream, by Jason Howard.
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover C:''' The 'Bots, by [[Lewis LaRosa]] and [[Rico Renzi]].
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover D:''' The 'Cons, by Lewis LaRosa and Rico Renzi.
* '''Second Printing Variant Cover E:''' Bumblebee's fate, by [[Greg Tocchini]].
* '''Third Printing Variant Cover:''' by [[Gerald Parel]].
* '''Alan Quah exclusive:''' by [[Alan Quah]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Big Clutch/[[eBay]] exclusive:''' Foil variant of main cover A. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Big Time Collectibles exclusive A:''' by [[John Giang]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Big Time Collectibles exclusive B:''' Foil variant. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Carnivore Comics exclusive A:''' by [[Rafael Grassetti]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Carnivore Comics exclusive B:''' Virgin variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Carnivore Comics exclusive C:''' Foil variant. Limited to 1,000 copies, exclusively at New York Comic Con 2023.
* '''Comic Grail Vault exclusive A:''' by [[Von Randal]] and [[Alex Guimarães]]. Limited to 800 copies.
* '''Comic Grail Vault exclusive B:''' Foil variant.
* '''Condemned Comics exclusive:''' by [[Christopher Mitten]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''DarlsDraws exclusive:''' by [[Alina Rojas]]. Limited to 300 copies.
* '''Felix Comic Art exclusive A:''' Wraparound variant of Optimus Prime playing basketball against the Decepticons, by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Felix Comic Art exclusive B:''' Black-and-white virgin variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Forbidden Planet exclusive A:''' by [[Flaviano Armentaro]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Forbidden Planet exclusive B:''' Virgin variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Francesco Tomaselli New York Comic Con exclusive:''' by [[Francesco Tomaselli]]. Limited to 900 copies.
* '''Hector Trunnec New York Comic Con exclusive:''' by [[Hector Trunnec]]. Limited to 400 copies.
* '''Juni Ba exclusive A:''' by [[Juni Ba]]. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Juni Ba exclusive B:''' Foil variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Maria The Wolf exclusive A:''' by [[Maria Lopez]] & Mike Spicer. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Maria The Wolf exclusive B:''' Virgin variant. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Maria The Wolf exclusive C:''' Foil variant. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Matthew Roberts exclusive:''' by [[Matthew Roberts]].
* '''Memory Lane Comics exclusive:''' by [[Hayden Sherman]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''MFKiG exclusive:''' by [[Ainsworth Lin]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Mike Bowden New York Comic Con exclusive:''' by [[Mike Bowden]] and [[Pez Fred]]. Limited to 500 copies.
* '''Rod Reis New York Comic Con exclusive:''' by [[Rod Reis]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Ryan Barry exclusive A:''' by [[Ryan Barry]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Ryan Barry exclusive B:''' Foil variant. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''San Diego Comic-Con Ashcan cover A:''' Spike atop Optimus Prime, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''San Diego Comic-Con Ashcan cover B:''' Black-and-white version, only available at Skybound's Energon Universe convention panel.
* '''Seibertron.com exclusive:''' by [[Marco Ferrari]].
* '''Skottie Young exclusive:''' by [[Skottie Young]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Skottie Young exclusive second printing:''' Virgin foil variant. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Stadium Comics exclusive:''' by [[Santa Fung]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''The 616 Comics exclusive:''' by [[Vincenzo Federici]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''Things From Another World exclusive:''' by [[Frédéric Pham Chuong]]. Limited to 1,000 copies.
* '''TransMissions Podcast exclusive:''' by [[E. J. Su]].
* '''Whatnot exclusive A:''' by [[Siya Oum]].
* '''Whatnot exclusive B:''' Foil variant.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 1 cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers01B Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers01C Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers01D Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers01E Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers01F Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers01G Cover.jpg|

File:Transformers01I Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 2nd ptg cvr A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 2nd ptg cvr B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 2nd ptg cvr C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 2nd ptg cvr D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 2nd ptg cvr E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 3nd ptg cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Alan Quah cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Big Clutch-eBay cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Big Time Collectibles cvr A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Big Time Collectibles cvr B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Carnivore Comics cvr A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Carnivore Comics cvr B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Carnivore Comics cvr C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Comic Grail Vault cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Condemned Comics cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 DarlsDraws cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers01-FelixComicArtA Cover.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Felix Comic Art cvr B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 ForbiddenPlanet cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 ForbiddenPlanet cvr B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Francesco Tomaselli NYCC cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Hector Trunnec NYCC cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Juni Ba cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Juni Ba cvr B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Maria The Wolf cvr A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Maria The Wolf cvr B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Maria The Wolf cvr C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Memory Lane Comics cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 MFKiG cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Mike Bowden NYCC cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Rod Reis NYCC cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Ryan Barry cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Ryan Barry cvr B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 SDCC AC cvr.jpg|

File:Transformers 2023 1 Seibertron.com cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Skottie Young cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Stadium Comics cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 The 616 Comics cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Things From Another World cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 TransMissions Podcast cvr.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 1 Whatnot cvr A.jpg|
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
* Explore the [[Energon Universe]] in ''Void Rivals''
* Codename: G.I. Joe starts in ''[[Duke (comic)|Duke]]'' #1
* The rise of [[Cobra]] starts in ''[[Cobra Commander (comic)|Cobra Commander]]'' #1
* A new era for G.I. Joe starts in ''[[G.I. Joe (comic)|G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero]]'' #301
* ''Murder Falcon'' Deluxe Hardcover available now

===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 1''''' ([[May 7]], [[2024]]) ISBN 1534398171 / ISBN 978-1534398177 
** Collects issues #1-6.
** Trade paperback format.

<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V1.jpg|'''''Volume 1''''' – cover art by [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] and [[Mike Spicer]]
</gallery>

==External links==
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUZgObXmU0 Director's commentary by Daniel Warren Johnson]

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

File:Marvelhm01 gasketandgourmet.jpg

2022-08-08T18:09:48Z

YoungDoctor:

{{HMinterior
|description=The two parts of [[Cog (G1)|Cog]] drive along in the wrong colour schemes.
|issueno=1
|storytitle=Ring of Hate!
|pageno=5
|panelno=3
|letters=[[Diana Albers]]
}}

Mechanical Difficulties!

2022-08-05T08:50:57Z

YoungDoctor: /* Artwork and technical errors */

{{Comicstory|
|seriesissue=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|''The Transformers'' (US)]] #28
|prev=King of the Hill!
|next=Crater Critters
|seriesissue2=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel UK|''The Transformers'' (UK)]] #121–122
|prev2=Fire on High!
|next2=Crater Critters
|title="Mechanical Difficulties!"
|image=MarvelUS-28.jpg
|caption=I think that I shall never see/A weapon as deadly as a tree.
|publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]
|date=January [[1987]]
|coverdate=May 1987
|writer=[[Bob Budiansky]]
|penciler=[[Don Perlin]]
|inkers=[[Ian Akin]] & [[Brian Garvey]]
|colorist=[[Nelson Yomtov|Nel Yomtov]]
|letterer=[[Janice Chiang]]
|editor=[[Don Daley]]
|continuity=[[Marvel Comics continuity]]
}}
'''Blaster and Goldbug are ordered to catch the Mechanic, at any cost!'''

==Synopsis==
Aided by stolen [[Autobot]] technology, the [[Mechanic]] launches a crime wave, stealing high technology equipment and extorting huge payments from the [[Portland]] underworld. [[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] sends [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] and
[[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Goldbug]] to find the Mechanic and retrieve their stolen technology, even at the cost of [[human]] lives. Meanwhile, members of the [[Portland Police Department]] are also attempting to bring the Mechanic to justice. Believing the Mechanic's super-tools to be of [[Transformer]] origin, the police have been instructed to deal aggressively with any Transformers they encounter. In one attempt to trap the Mechanic, the police and the Autobots hinder each other's progress, and the Mechanic escapes.

The Mechanic calls a meeting of all the crime bosses of the Pacific Northwest, during which he displays modifications to their cars that equip them with heavy weaponry. The police and the Autobots, having come to an agreement to work together, invade this meeting, capturing the crime bosses and the Mechanic's henchman, [[Juan (thief)|Juan]], but the Mechanic himself escapes once again.

Believing Grimlock to be an unfit commander, and knowing that Grimlock will see their mission to recover the Mechanic as a failure, Blaster and Goldbug decide to head out on their own.

==Featured characters==
(Characters in ''italic text'' only appear in flashbacks) 
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Goldbug]] (3)
*[[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (4)
*[[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] (9)
*''[[Ratchet (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Ratchet]]'' (10)
*[[Wheeljack (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Wheeljack]] (13)
|c3=
{{collist|2|
*[[Mechanic]] (1)
*[[Juan (thief)|Juan]] (2)
*[[Deadhead]] (5)
*[[Fuzzy]] (6)
*[[Altman]] (7)
*[[Greco]] (8)
*[[Stoler]] (11)
*[[Bigelow]] (12)
}}
}}

==Quotes==
"No mere pair of vehicles are a match for...'''The Mechanic!'''"
:—'''The Mechanic''' really needs a better bad-guy name.

"'''Why you not destroy humans?!" 
"Commander, it's difficult enough to get the trust of the humans '''without''' destroying them."
:—'''Grimlock''' and '''Blaster'''

"Times like this make me wish I agreed with Grimlock about humans! But I '''don't!'''" 
"I'm not inclined to stomp them either, Blaster!"
:—'''Blaster''' and '''Goldbug''' patiently endure the assault of the Portland PD

"My orders are to destroy robots like you." 
"And my orders are to destroy ''humans'' like you. Some orders are not meant to be followed."
:—'''Detective Greco''' and '''Blaster''' are more alike than different

"...Like I said before, some orders are not meant to be followed... and for that matter, neither are some leaders. Which way to the Ark, Goldbug?" 
"Behind us, to the east." 
"Let's go west."
:—'''Blaster''' and '''Goldbug''' strike out on their own

==Notes==
===Artwork and technical errors===
*On page 2, Ratchet's [[cryogenic sprayer]]'s beam is colored like a laser, though it's drawn like a frost beam.
*In this issue, Goldbug is drawn consistently as Bumblebee's body with Goldbug's head and colored in Bumblebee's color scheme (although he has the correct [[character model]] on the cover).
*Page 12, panel 5: Blaster's whole visor is colored yellow, rather than just the eyes.

===Continuity errors===
[[File:Human.jpg|thumb|Seriously, what is going on?]]
*After displaying normal eloquence in two of his three appearances so far, Grimlock speaks in the manner of his cartoon counterpart in this issue ("Why you not destroy humans?"), and will do so for the rest of the book's run. Until his demise in "[[Dark Star]]", he also displays a much more "buffoonish" and self-centered personality as well. In Marvel UK's 1989 booklet "[[Transformers: The Facts]]", the writer claims that Grimlock's varying speech pattern is a deliberate ruse on his part, because he considers intellectuals weak, though this is never specifically stated in any story.
*The Mechanic's crippling fear of police officers, so important in his previous appearance, seems to have completely disappeared here.
*Page 5: Goldbug asks, "About what, Commander Grimlock?" From context, it's clear Grimlock just asked him something like, "Me want your opinion, Goldbug", but no such dialog balloon exists. This is corrected in the UK edition, with an extra dialog balloon saying "what do you think?"
*Page 7: Juan is installing the radar dish ''inside the building''. Later, it's on the roof.
*Blaster's plan is kind of ridiculous. Detective Greco carries Blaster (in altmode) into the hangar full of gangsters, singing scat and dancing to music. He pulls out his badge and turns off the music, which is the signal for the police outside to rush in. It's unclear what any of that accomplished. And while scrambling the modified cars makes them unusable for the gangsters, the cars now just fire randomly and uncontrollably, posing a lethal threat to the gangsters ''as well as'' the police.

===Continuity notes===
*The Mechanic acquired his Autobot technology in "[[Funeral for a Friend!]]"; we get a couple of flashback panels to that issue.
*After agreeing with Perceptor that Grimlock is a viable leader at the end of last issue, Blaster has already lost respect for his intelligence at the beginning of this issue, setting up their rivalry.

===Real-life references===
*That's Little Richard's 1955 rock & roll classic "{{w|Tutti Frutti (song)|Tutti Frutti}}" that the Detective Greco is singing along to. (His gangster quarry, being men of low culture, cannot dig it, so Greco suggests that maybe they prefer [[Sinatra]].)
*Like most of the series, the action is set in and around [[Portland]], [[Oregon]], including [[Portland International Airport]]. Greco and his comrades work for the "[[Portland Police Department]]"; the city actually is policed by the Portland Police Bureau.

===UK printing===
'''Issue #121'''
*'''Back-up strips:''' ''[[Iron Man]]'' - "Man of the Year" and ''[[Robo-Capers]]''
* This issue marked the beginning of a trend to only use UK covers. From this point on, very few U.S. covers would be reprinted for UK issues—and only one by a U.S. artist.
* In ''[[Letters page (Marvel UK)#Grim Grams|Grim Grams]]'', Grimlock seems to think that there are toys available of individual Junkions in the U.S.!
'''Issue #122'''
*'''Back-up strips:''' ''Iron Man'' - "Man of the Year" and ''Robo-Capers''
*This issue included a bonus 6-page ''[[G.I. Joe (team)|Action Force]]'' strip "Dummy Run!" by [[Steve White]] & [[Geoff Senior]]. It was originally printed in issue #18 of the ''Action Force'' weekly comic.

===Other trivia===
*This is the first Marvel US issue to be sold for $1.00.
*The "[[Formax]] Computer" is ''totally'' a jukebox.

===Bot Roster===
*Autobots: 32 active, but Blaster and Goldbug strike out on their own; 14 in repair bay. (46 total)
*Decepticons: 31 active; 9 offline. (40 total)

===Courtesy of my...===
*The Mechanic is back with his [[laser scalpel]], [[cryogenic sprayer]], and [[power booster rod]].
*As with any story involving Blaster, the [[electro-scrambler]] gets called out a fair bit.

===Covers (3)===
*'''US cover:''' The Mechanic vs Goldbug and Blaster, by [[Ian Akin]].
*'''UK issue #121 cover:''' Goldbug, Blaster and the Mechanic, by [[Jeff Anderson]].
*'''UK issue #122 cover:''' Goldbug, about to be disassembled, by Jeff Anderson.
<gallery>
File:MarvelUS-28.jpg|'''US issue #28''' - Guns are one thing, but ''trees''?
File:MarvelUK-121.jpg|'''UK issue #121''' - And people say that [[Transformers Animated (franchise)|''Animated'']]'s villains are goofy!
File:MarvelUK-122.jpg|'''UK issue #122''' - I can't see that being a good business plan
</gallery>

===Advertisements===
*[[M&M's]] - inside front cover
*The Amazing [[Spider-Man]] Free the Cap'n Mystery - between pages 4 & 5
*MPC Model Kits - between pages 5 & 6
*Olympic Sales Club - between pages 7 & 8
*Various Sketchy ads - between pages 8 & 9
*East Coast Comics - between pages 16 & 17
*J&S Comics / Marvel Super Mart - between pages 17 & 18
*Mile High Comics - between pages 19 & 20
*''Groo the Wanderer'' - between pages 20 & 21
*''The Comet Man'' comic
*Marvel subscription service
*Chips Ahoy! cookies - inside back cover
*Bonkers! Chewy Candy and Ugly Balls (back cover)

===Reprints===
* '''''[[Transformers: Breakdown]]'' TPB:''' [[Predaking (G1)|Predaking]], [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]], Ratchet and half of Ratbat, by [[Andrew Wildman]].
*'''''Transformers: Breakdown'' HC:''' Grimlock fighting Trypticon, by [[Kev Walker]], [[Simon Coleby]] and [[Chris Blythe]].
*'''[[Classic Transformers Volume 2|''Classic Transformers'' Volume 2]]:''' panels from US issues [[Showdown!|#20]] and [[Gone but Not Forgotten!|#25]].
*'''[[The Transformers Classics, Vol. 3|''The Transformers Classics,'' Vol. 3]]:''' [[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Bumblebee]], by [[Guido Guidi]].
*'''''[[Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection]]: Volume 8: Wanted: Galvatron – Dead or Alive ''''': [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] by ??? and [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] by [[Dan Reed]]
<gallery>
File:Titan-BreakdownSC.jpg|'''''Breakdown'' TPB''' (Titan Books, 2004)
File:Titan-BreakdownHC.jpg|'''''Breakdown'' hardback''' (Titan Books, 2004)
File:Classic_Transformers_Vol2.jpg|'''''Classic Transformers'' Volume 2''' (IDW Publishing, 2008)
File:TFClassicsVol3.jpg|'''''The Transformers Classics,'' Vol. 3''' (IDW Publishing, 2012)
File:DefinitiveG1Collection v8.jpg|'''''Definitive G1 Collection Vol. 8''''' (Hachette Partworks Ltd, 2017)
</gallery>

[[Category:Marvel US issues]]
[[Category:Marvel UK issues]]

Combiner

2022-04-24T08:55:55Z

YoungDoctor: /* Marvel The Transformers comics */

[[File:studioox combiners whatif.jpg|thumb|right|400px|Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer.]]

Over the course of their endless wars, the Cybertronian race has developed a frightful array of [[:Category:Weapons by franchise|weapons]], but the most powerful and versatile invention of all might be the power to physically merge multiple Cybertronians into a single form—this power might be unlocked through conventional Cybertronian science, or through the energies of a mystical artifact like the [[Enigma of Combination]]. The term '''combiner''' (sometimes capitalized, sometimes not) can be used to refer to both those rare Transformers who possess this ability and the composite machine they create.

Although many different varieties of combiners exist—for instance, two or more Cybertronians might merge to form a vehicle, weapon, or some kind of useful machine, the most famous and immediately recognizable form of combination involves the fusion of five or six individual Cybertronians into a larger robot, sometimes referred to as a '''gestalt'''; more often than not, this combined form possesses its own emergent personality based at least in part on the interaction between the minds of its individual components. Introducing the technology into any of the myriad iterations of the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]] across the [[multiverse]] inevitably leads to the same result: short of a [[Titan (group)|Titan]], the only thing capable of stopping a combiner rampage is another combiner, and more than one conflict between the [[Autobot]]s and [[Decepticon]]s has spiralled into an endless combiner arms race as both sides scramble to accrue as many of these strategic-grade weapons as possible.

Although the mental merge usually dilutes the strength of a combiner's individual thoughts, to the point where many suffer from limited intellects or outright insanity, a few combiner teams like the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobot]]s or [[Breastforce]] have taken steps to mitigate this design flaw. But, as more than one [[Decepticon]] leader has used to his advantage, even the most dysfunctional combiner is exponentially stronger than the mere sum of its parts, and more than a match for a dozen average-sized Cybertronians.

{{bigquote|Superion is five Autobots put together. Think about the last time you and your friends tried to agree on pizza toppings, then make it '''way''' more complicated.|[[Spike (MLP)|Spike]]|"[[The Mightiest Dinobot]]"}}

==Conceptual history==
[[File:Diaclone Constructicons.jpg|thumb|left|250px|The Diaclone pre-G2 Constructicons.]]

The concept of combining robots is a [[tvtropes:Main/CombiningMecha|long-standing anime trope]], so it is perhaps appropriate that the story of combiners as we know them today began before the creation of the ''Transformers'' brand. In 1982, the ''[[Diaclone]]'' toyline introduced the "Construction Vehicle Robo" and "Train Robo" figures. Not only did these six-man teams change from robots into realistic construction vehicles and locomotives, they could also combine with their respective teammates to form a larger super robot. In [[1985]], with the ''[[Transformers brand|Transformers]]'' franchise now in its second year, [[Hasbro]] imported the construction-themed toys to the [[United States of America|United States]] and characterized them as the evil "[[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]]s", who could unite to form [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]. After Diaclone's 1986 cancellation, the next wave of combining toys saw release as ''Transformers'' characters on both sides of the Pacific. A significant step up from their predecessors, the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbot]]s, [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticon]]s, [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s, and [[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobot]]s possessed a standardized combination scheme that allowed kids to mix and match team members at well, leading to [[TakaraTomy|Takara]] marketing them under the "Scramble City" subline on account of their ability to "scramble" limbs at will.

[[File:Raiden boxart.jpg|thumb|right|200px|There's a "derailment" joke waiting to happen.]]

Initially, tie-in fiction treated the ability to combine as a comparatively recent invention created after the Transformers arrived on Earth, but this soon changed: the cartoon episode "[[The Secret of Omega Supreme (episode)|The Secret of Omega Supreme]]" revealed that the Constructicons first combined early in the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]]; later, to accommodate the presence of the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcon]]s and [[Technobot (G1)|Technobot]]s, Marvel's ''[[The Transformers: Headmasters|Headmasters]]'' miniseries showed these combiners existing on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] long before the exodus to [[Earth]]. By the end of the original ''Transformers'' toyline, the line had expanded beyond Scramble City: these included [[Mini-Cassette]] combiners like [[Squawkbox]], vehicle-mode combiners like the [[Micromaster Combiner]]s, and a number of oddballs like [[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]] and the [[Duocon]]s. Given Japan's aforementioned affection for the concept, basically every Japanese-exclusive franchise would introduce new combiners, even after Hasbro eased off on the concept—perhaps most prominently, the ''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (franchise)|The Headmasters]]'' franchise would resurrect the original Train Robo under the name "[[Raiden]]", and subsequent franchises would introduce a host of new combining characters like the [[Breastforce]], [[Multiforce]], and [[Dinoforce]].

While the ''[[Beast Wars: Transformers (franchise)|Beast Wars]]'' and ''[[Beast Machines: Transformers (franchise)|Beast Machines]]'' franchises did not embrace the gimmick to the same degree as the franchises that preceded them (although the toyline-exclusive combiners [[Magnaboss (BW)|Magnaboss]] and [[Tripredacus]] would go on to appear in various tie-in comics), Japanese-original shows from around the same time, most prominently ''[[Transformers: Robots in Disguise (2001 franchise)|Car Robots]]'', introduced many new combiner characters like [[Landfill (RID)|Landfill]] and [[Rail Racer (RID)|Rail Racer]]. In [[2004]], riding on the success of the ''[[Transformers: Armada (franchise)|Armada]]'' franchise, its successor ''[[Transformers: Energon (franchise)|Energon]]'' spotlighted combination as one of its central gimmicks: in addition to resurrecting the Scramble City gimmick with the "Maximus" combiners (which were basically a last-minute addition to the toyline), the [[Transformers: Energon (toyline)|toyline]]'s central gimmick allowed almost every Autobot to combine with any other Autobot by forming either the upper or lower body of a combiner. Unlike most previous depictions of the process, or even [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]]'s concurrent depiction of the technology as a mentally and physically rigorous mechanical upgrade, this series introduced [[Primus]]'s divine [[Spark of Combination]] as an explicitly supernatural force capable of instantly combining individual Transformers together.

For many years, [[Fandom|fans]] referred to super robot combiners with emergent personalities as '''gestalts''', based on the {{w|Gestalt psychology|real-world term}} meaning, roughly, an object greater than the sum of its parts. The term remained firmly in realm of [[fanon]] for years, but between ''[[Transformers: Energon (franchise)|Energon]]'' design sketches, ''[[Titanium Series]]'' [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]]'s bio, and a mention in [[IDW Publishing]]'s ''[[Spotlight: Optimus Prime]]'', the term soon caught on with Hasbro designers. Initially, IDW's [[2005 IDW continuity|first ''Transformers'']] treated gestalt technology as an unpredictable and highly experimental technology—modern-day Autobots like the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobot]]s lacked combination powers, and author [[Simon Furman]] characterized [[Monstructor (G1)|Monstructor]] as an insane failed experiment from Cybertron's bygone [[Golden Age]]. ''[[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|All Hail Megatron]]'' introduced a new incarnation of Devastator, although [[Shockpoint|later stories]] established that he was the imperfect product of arduous research.

[[File:NexusPrimeflankedbyotherPrimes.jpg|thumb|left|200px|He-who-shall-not-be-named.]]

Around this time, [[Fun Publications]] released a number of [[redeco]]ed ''Energon'' combiner components through the Collector's Club. Tie-in fiction published in the [[Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club (magazine)|official Collector's Club magazine]] detailed their adventures across the ''Transformers'' [[multiverse]], and eventually culminated with the reveal that all five of these seemingly unrelated 'bots were all fragments of [[Nexus Prime]], one of the [[Thirteen|thirteen original Transformers]] who displayed mastery over [[energon]]. Hasbro would fold Nexus Prime into their definitive version of the Thirteen; when he reappeared in 2013's ''[[Transformers: The Covenant of Primus|The Covenant of Primus]]'', his new profile played up his status as the first combiner instead. Notably, that book established that he controlled a mysterious [[Enigma of Combination]], but what exactly this ''was'' would not be revealed for another few years.

The [[2010]] ''[[Power Core Combiners]]'' toyline featured a mixture of old and new characters, who combined with static [[Autotransformation|auto-transforming]] figures to form larger super robots. The Japanese counterpart of the toyline, ''[[Transformers United EX|United EX]]'', declared the toys (which were redecoed from the Hasbro toys) to be new bodies for various established characters in the sprawling [[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity]], while others made appearances in [[Live-action film series|movie]]-related media like ''[[Transformers: Cyber Missions|Cyber Missions]]''. [[Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 32|Issue #32]] of the Collectors' Club magazine expanded on their scant [[bio]] information by explaining that [[Power Core Combination]] was a "lost art"; modern attempts to reinvent the technology only created destructive monsters in what is presumably a reference to [[Devastator (ROTF)|Devastator]]'s role in ''[[Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (film)|Revenge of the Fallen]]''.

Just five years later, the ''[[Combiner Wars (franchise)|Combiner Wars]]'' multimedia branding again pushed combiners to the fore. To support this marketing push, [[IDW Publishing]] launched a [[Combiner Wars (comic)|tie-in comic series]] set in its [[2005 IDW continuity|primary ongoing universe]]... a universe that had already established combination as a forbidden, dangerous art. To get around all this, IDW revealed that Nexus Prime's "Enigma of Combination" was a supernatural artifact that could instantly merge Cybertronians together into a combiner. This reveal tied the old Spark of Combination to the idea that "true" combination had become a lost art by the modern day; furthering this revelation, ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[The Crucible|#34]] subtly retconned that Monstructor's creator [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]] had been trying to recreate the power of the Enigma using mundane technology.

In the years since ''Combiner Wars'', depictions of combination have shifted toward something more supernatural than scientific in nature: many modern works of media tie the process to the Enigma of Combination, arcane super-science, or exposure to exotic radiation. Many contemporary depictions of combiners, including the [[Transformers: Robots in Disguise (2015 cartoon)|2015 ''Robots in Disguise'' cartoon]], IDW's various comic continuities, or ''[[Transformers: Cyberverse (cartoon)|Cyberverse]]'', focus just as much on the internal struggles of the team to coordinate their efforts. For more specific descriptions of how individual stories have treated combination in all its forms, read on.

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==Types of combiner==
{{bigquote|Decepticons are '''obsessed''' with combining. Put two of 'em in a room and within seconds one will be standing on the other's shoulders. '''Fact.'''|[[Swerve (G1)|Swerve]]|"[[The Waiting Game]]"}}

Although combiners are a diverse and varied clade, not ''all'' Cybertronians who combine with smaller robots or form a larger machine count as “true” combiners. Although many Transformers, such as [[Powermaster]] [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] or ''[[Transformers: Energon (cartoon)|Energon]]'' [[Landmine (Energon)|Landmine]], can combine with parts of their alternate mode to form a larger, [[Super Mode|powered-up form]], these only involve one character combining with an inanimate piece of machinery. [[Multi-component Transformer]]s like [[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]] or [[Magmatron]] possess a single consciousness distributed over several bodies; there is only ''one'' Transformer involved, regardless of how many bodies that character may simultaneously operate, although a few “true” combiners like the [[Power Core Combination|Power Core Combiners]] blur this line.

Sometimes a smaller Transformer will attach to and enhance a larger Transformer in some way. [[Binary bonding|binary bonded]] partners like [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]]s, or [[Mini-Con]]s who [[Powerlinx]] with larger partners, are not considered combiners; although the components involved often a share a deep, almost symbiotic relationship with each other, their "combined" form is almost exactly the same in appearance and functionality as their non-combined form.

Generally, combiners can be divided into three primary categories:

===Robot mode combiners===
[[File:Computron.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
The majority of Transformers who combine do so by merging into a humanoid "super robot" that exponentially magnifies the strength of its components. In many cases, this robot is its own being, with a unique name and a personality formed from the intersection of multiple minds. In other instances, however, a combiner might be governed by just ''one'' member of the team, their personality so strong that the act of combination becomes an extension of their own will supported by the other Cybertronians who comprise the combiner. Sometimes, the individual components involved in a combination might not actually possess humanoid robot modes of their own: for instance, the Autobot [[Slamdance (G1)|Slamdance]] is the combined form of [[Raindance]] and [[Grand Slam (G1)|Grand Slam]], who transform from [[Mini-Cassette|mini-cassette]]s into a tank and jet respectively.

While a combiner can be formed from as few as two robots or hundreds, perhaps the most immediately recognizable combiners of all are the five-man teams who made prominent appearances in the original [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|comic]] and [[The Transformers (cartoon)|cartoon]]. While [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] utilized a unique six-bot configuration that relegated nominal team leader [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] to the ignoble role of right leg, the "Scramble City" combiners that followed—[[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]], [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]], [[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]], etc.—were all based on a standardized five-member design featured in the Japanese [[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1986 (Scramble City and Transformers 2010)|''Scramble City'' toyline]]: the team leader forms the head and main body of the combiner, while the four other team members form the limbs. These limbs are interchangeable from one Scramble City-style combiner to the next, allowing for a number of improvised combinations. The [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]]s are notable for incorporating ''six'' members into the team; while any four can combine with their leader [[Snaptrap (G1)|Snaptrap]] to form [[Piranacon (G1)|Piranacon]], one member of the team transforms into a blaster for the combiner to wield. A few other modern interpretations of the characters, most notably their ''[[Combiner Wars (toyline)|Combiner Wars]]'' incarnations, have also featured a smaller sixth member of the team in a support role—sometimes acting as a weapon, other times serving as a chestplate or shield.

These specific four-limbs-and-one-torso combiners and their components have also been called, varyingly, '''Scramble City combiners''', '''[[Special Teams]]''',<ref> When the ''Scramble City'' toys were marketed in Europe they were referred to as Special Teams, and the term appeared in the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|UK comic book]] series and some marketing materials in the US,, but never appeared in US fiction until 2004's [[Transformers: The Ultimate Guide|''Ultimate Guide'']].</ref> '''fusilateral quintrocombiners'''.<ref> Coined by [[Simon Furman]] in [[Swarm (issue)|issue 9]] of the [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|''Generation 2'' comic]] to refer to the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]],</ref> or '''amalgam models'''.<ref>"[[Devastation Derby!]]"</ref> Although they comprise a substantial cross-section of combiners, not all combiners adhere to this specific layout: the various [[Micromaster]] combiners, including [[Sixwing]], [[Sixtrain]], or [[Sixbuilder]], feature their own standardized layout, which incorporate up to six members and also feature interchangeable limbs. Other combiners like [[Monstructor (G1)|Monstructor]], [[Predaking (G1)|"Generation 1" Predaking]]", ''[[Transformers: Robots in Disguise (2001 franchise)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Rail Racer (RID)|Rail Racer]], or ''[[Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (franchise)|Revenge of the Fallen]]'' [[Devastator (ROTF)|Devastator]] all incorporate a different number of components with unique transformation schemes.
{{--}}

===Vehicle mode combiners===
[[File:Fireshot vanquish windblade 4.jpg|thumb|left|250px]]

Rather than combining into a larger robot, a number of Transformers can instead transform into a combined vehicle form. Unlike humanoid combiners, who generally merge into a single super robot with its own personality, almost all fiction has treated these kinds of combiners as a purely physical combination, with no kind of mental merge to speak of. This is not to say that Cybertronians who combine in this way are ''completely'' separate from one another: many works of fiction treat this kind of combination as a kind of sibling bond, sometimes shared between a literal set of [[twin]]s, and the Transformers involved might share some kind of deeper link.

While some 'bots—such as [[Darkwing (G1)|Darkwing]] and [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]], who combine into the larger [[Dreadwing (G1)|Dreadwing]]—possess individual vehicle modes that can then merge into a larger form, others, most notably the [[Micromaster Combiner]]s, lack individual alternate forms entirely: they can only transform into the front or back half of a vehicle, and rely on their partner to form a complete alternate mode.

{{--}}

===Others===
[[File:RequiemBlaster.jpg|thumb|right|250px]]

A small number of Transformers combine into objects that are neither super robots nor vehicles. This kind of combination is most prevalent among [[Mini-Con]] teams, who possess the power to combine into larger weapons and tools for full-sized Cybertronians to wield, but a small number of other Transformers and near-Cybertronian lifeforms have adopted similar configurations: [[Sonic (IDW)|Sonic]] and [[Boom]] transform into a set of speakers, while the [[Recyclon]]s could unite to form the [[Prime Processing Unit]].

{{--}}

==Fiction==
===Generation 1 continuity family===
====Marvel Comics continuity====
=====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics=====
{{noteukonly}}

[[File:TFUS10 all crumble before devastator.jpg|thumb|left|250px]]

Although a number of combiner teams existed on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], including both the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobot]]s and [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcon]]s, {{storylink|Ring of Hate!}} the ability was rare enough that [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] and his legion of Earth-bound Autobots had never encountered combiners. Thus, when [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]] designed and built the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]]s and imbued them with life using the [[Matrix of Leadership|Creation Matrix]] energy stored in Prime's severed head, they were taken by surprise and nearly defeated by the newly-formed [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]. {{storylink|The Next Best Thing to Being There!}}
''The [[Special Teams]] were first conceived within [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]]'s mind shortly after the human had relinquished control of the Creation Matrix to Optimus Prime. Shockwave was able to view this data remotely and prepare for their development.'' {{storylink|Second Generation!}}

[[File:Menasor superion heavy traffic.jpg|thumb|right|250px]]

Once the Autobots rescued and repaired Optimus Prime, the group turned their attention to countering Decepticon combiner technology: although their new warrior [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] could combine his rocket and tank modules into one mighty robot, his creator [[Grapple (G1)|Grapple]] judged this combination inadequate compared to Devastator's six-way fusion. To get their hands on this advanced technology, [[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Bumblebee]] secretly recorded their transformation pattern, {{storylink|Command Performances!}} and the Autobots successfully reverse-engineered to create the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbots]]. Unfortunately, they were forced to go on their first mission with only [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]]'s personality programming completed, leaving the rest of the team and their combined form [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] indifferent towards [[human]] casualties. {{storylink|Aerialbots over America!}}

After their first mission proved a failure, Optimus Prime had [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] wipe their memory and started reprogramming them with the Creation Matrix. However, [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]], who had gotten a lift to the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] on Silverbolt's plane mode, had injected Optimus Prime with a [[cerebro-shell]] with which [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] used to steal energy from the Creation Matrix and bring his newly built combiner team, the [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]], to life. {{storylink|Heavy Traffic!}} As this combiner arms race heated up, the heroic [[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobot]]s and evil [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s became the next combiner teams to join the conflict on Earth. {{storylink|Afterdeath!}}

''Megatron summoned the [[Predacon (G1)|Predacon]]s to Earth'', {{storylink|Prey!}} and Shockwave would again call on their services. {{storylink|Gone but Not Forgotten!}} ''Shockwave would also bring the [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]]s from Cybertron to Earth'', {{storylink|Enemy Action!}} and subsequent Decepticon leader [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] made use of [[Piranacon (G1)|Piranacon]] and [[Predaking (G1)|Predaking]]. {{storylink|Club Con!}} Many combiner teams—the Aerialbots, Technobots, Terrorcons, Seacons, and possibly the Combaticons and Protectobots—fell to an [[Underbase]]-empowered [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]] during his infamous rampage. {{storylink|Dark Star}}

[[Darkwing (G1)|Darkwing]] and [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]] combined to form [[Dreadwing (G1)|Dreadwing]]. They appeared to keep their individual personalities in their combined mode instead of merging their minds. {{storylink|People Power!}}

=====Earthforce=====
{{earthforcefiction}}
The Constructicons lost the ability to combine, but attempted to compensate by constructing a separate Devastator robot on a deserted island in the [[Bahamas]]. {{storylink|Desert Island Risks!}}

=====Marvel ''Generation 2'' comic=====
Multiple [[Cybertronian (faction)|Cybertronian]]s could combine into larger vehicle modes. {{storylink|Total War!}} The [[Stormtrooper (Cybertronian)|Stormtrooper]]s under [[Mindset (G2)|Mindset]]'s command, for instance, could form a single "thunderjet". {{storylink|Swarm (issue)|Swarm}}

=====''Classics''=====
[[File:ShatteredHope-Magnaboss.jpg|thumb|left|250px]]

In the years after [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]'s defeat, Megatron rebuilt the Constructicons as a five-robot combiner, a new configuration that incorporated [[Hightower (Classics)|Hightower]] in place of [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] and [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]]. {{storylink|Crossing Over: Part 3}}

After the destruction of [[Primax 207.0 Epsilon|their native universe]], [[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]], [[Ironhide (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Ironhide]], and [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] recieved [[beast mode]] upgrades to survive on the prehistoric [[Earth]] of [[Primax -408.24 Epsilon|a parallel universe]]. While in their beast forms, they gained the ability to combine into the mighty [[Magnaboss (BW)|Magnaboss]]; this new form came in handy when they went up against Megatron and the [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]]s, who had since adopted [[Scylla]] into their ranks and reforged their combined form into "God Neptune"—thanks to Scylla's influence, this new configuration proved to be more intelligent and tactically-minded than the brutish hunter that had preceded him. {{storylink|Shattered Hope}}

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=====''Regeneration One''=====
{{NoteRG1}}

[[File:DestinyPt5 MonstructorDeathTouch.jpg|thumb|right|250px]]

[[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] prepared for the arrival of [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]'s invasion of Cybertron by having [[Wingthing (G1)|Wingthing]] alert the Neo-Decepticon cells to get ready, while he himself prepared to deploy Monstructor. {{storylink|Destiny, Part Three}} When [[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]] deployed [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] to take out Bludgeon's [[Blitz Engine]]s, Soundwave ordered Monstructor to take out Omega Supreme. {{storylink|Destiny, Part Four}} The two giants clashed and just as the invasion was halted by [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Rodimus Prime]]'s defeat of Bludgeon and the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'s annihilation of the ''[[Warworld]]'', Omega Supreme utterly destroyed Monstructor. {{storylink|Destiny, Part Five}}

=====''Timelines''=====
During the campaign against the [[Cybertronian (faction)|Cybertronian Empire]], [[First Aid (G1)|First Aid]] and [[Fixit (G1)|Fixit]] rebuilt a dying [[Ratchet (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Ratchet]] and upgraded him with combiner technology in the hopes that he'd take the ailing First Aid's place as one of [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]]'s limbs. Due to Ratchet's [[The Pri¢e of Life!|prior experiences with combination]], he remained wary of the upgrade and did not combine unless absolutely necessary. {{storylink|Ratchet (G1)/toys#Combiner Wars|Customization class G2 Ratchet bio}}

=====''Transformers '84''=====
Although combiner technology did not see widespread use on Cybertron due to its intense energy-inefficiency, Straxus nevertheless posted [[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]] to guard [[Project Dreadnought]]'s headquarters in [[Stanix]]. {{storylink|Secrets & Lies issue 4|Secrets & Lies #4}}

====Generation 1 cartoon continuity====
[[File:Heavy Metal War Devastator.JPG|thumb|left|250px]]
The secret of combination hinged on a Cybertronian’s [[personality component]]; only a fully-sentient Cybertronian could combine with their teammates into a more powerful form, and if even one ‘bot lacked a personality component then the team could not combine. {{storylink|B.O.T. (episode)|B.O.T.}} However, combiners could still function, albeit in a severely weakened state, even without a team member forming an arm. {{storylink|The Ultimate Weapon}} Some Cybertronians like [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]] could combine into a single alternate mode. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 1}}
On Cybertron, the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] were existing Transformers who were brainwashed by [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]] to become Decepticons and modified so that they could combine into [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] and challenge [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]]. After the fall of the [[Crystal City]] that they had worked to build together, Omega Supreme pursued the Constructicons for millions of years. {{storylink|The Secret of Omega Supreme (episode)|The Secret of Omega Supreme}} In 1984, the Constructicons were [[Constructicon (G1)#Origin inconsistency|(re?)created]] on [[Earth]] with the ability to combine to bolster the Decepticons' strength. {{storylink|Heavy Metal War}}

As the Cybertronian war on Earth heated up, the Autobots and Decepticons wound up constructing the heroic [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbot]]s and evil [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticon]] to plug specific tactical weaknesses in their ranks—a lack of air power and an inability to outmaneuver the Autobots on the road. Designed to combine, both sides eventually received personalities from [[Vector Sigma]]. {{storylink|The Key to Vector Sigma, Part 2}} [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] installed the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticon]]s' [[personality component]]s into junked military vehicles and gave them the ability to combine into [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]]. {{storylink|Starscream's Brigade}} Later, the [[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobot]]s became part of the Autobot forces on Earth and used their combined form to great effect on multiple occasions. {{storylink|The Revenge of Bruticus}} On one notable occasion, a group of Autobots disguised themselves as the Stunticons, and were even able to combine their myriad abilities together to create a crude facsimile of Menasor himself. {{storylink|Masquerade}}

Years later, the [[Predacon (G1)|Predacon]]s appeared as combiners under the command of the [[Quintesson]]s. {{storylink|Five Faces of Darkness, Part 5}} The combinable [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcon]]s were part of [[Galvatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Galvatron]]'s troops. An intellectually enhanced [[Grimlock (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Grimlock]] created the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobot]]s with the ability to combine. {{storylink|Grimlock's New Brain}}

{{--}}

=====Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity=====
[[File:LegendsOptimusMaximus.jpg|thumb|right|250px]]

A number of combiner warriors incorporated the mysterious technique known as "[[Scramble Power]]", which gave them the ability to swap and even interchange their component limbs at will to generate unique configurations for battle. {{storylink|Scramble City: Mobilization}} A smaller number of combiners were "[[Free-Combination|Free Combiners]]", who could rearrange their bodies at will. {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: Operation Combination (story page)|Operation Combination}} A unique form of [[energon]] known as "[[Joint energon]]" could cause Transformers to spontaneously develop combiner joints. {{storylink|Megatronia Chapter}}

[[Precursor World]] hero [[White Gallant Convoy]] could combine with members of the [[White Order]] to form a powerful "Grand Prime" mode, but even this powered-up mode could not withstand the might of a Matrix-empowered [[God Neptune]]. {{storylink|God Neptune comic 2}} During another battle with God Neptune, [[Purple Wicked Convoy]] combined with Megatron Omega to form an "Omega Hand Mode". {{storylink|Generations Selects Special Comic Finale Part 1|Finale 1}}

[[File:AutobotScrumFormation01.jpg|thumb|left|300px|Two dozen androids form into one, and we've only just begun!]]

A mysterious dimensional shockwave turned a number of [[Cyberdroid]]s into combining [[Micromaster]]s. {{storylink|A New Transformer Legend Begins!!}}

In the modern day, inspired by a [[Masquerade|previous incident]] in which several Autobots combined, [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]], [[Mirage (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Mirage]], [[Sunstreaker (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Sunstreaker]], [[Ironhide (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ironhide]], and [[Prowl (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Prowl]] initiated the "Masquerade Project" in the late 1980s, modifying their [[transformation cog]]s to adopt new combiner modes. Though the process was imperfect and unstable, they managed to combine into [[Optimus Maximus (G1)|Optimus Maximus]] and defeat [[Slugslinger (G1)|Slugslinger]] during the battle for the [[Transform Super Cog]]. The combiner was then split apart when hit by an energy shockwave emitted by [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]]. {{storylink|Slugslinger's Ambition}}

The [[Trainbot]]s were a group of Autobot rail vehicles with the power to combine into [[Raiden]]; on multiple occasions, they used their combined form to tussle with other combiners like Bruticus and Predaking. {{storylink|The Mystery of Planet Master}} {{storylink|The Dormant Volcano Mysteriously Erupts}}

On one notable occasion, the combiners [[Guard City]], [[Sixbuilder]], [[Sixwing]], [[Sixturbo]], and [[Sixtrain]] all teamed up to unleash the awesomely powerful "[[Autobot Scrum Combination]]", summoning energy from their twenty-nine components and releasing it in a single devastating blast to save the Earth from [[Battle Gaia]] and the [[Jet Corps]]. {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: Operation Combination (story page)|Conclusion}}

With the help of [[Chip Chase|Professor Chase]], [[Power Core Combination]] was developed on [[Earth]] in the 21st century during a time when the Autobot/Decepticon conflict had largely moved away from the planet. Participants in the program—beginning with several Autobot [[Micromaster]]s from planet [[Micro|Zone]]—were upgraded into new forms and fitted with newly developed [[Energon Matrix]] power sources, becoming part of a new "[[Master Class]]" [[subgroup]]. {{storylink|The Mighty Bolt}} Before long, their successful tests of the Power Core Combination drones drew the attention of a team of Decepticons under the command of [[Scrash (G1)|Scrash]], who performed a similar upgrade on themselves (dubbing themselves "[[Master Chaos]]") that would enable them to interface with the Power Core drones and steal them. {{storylink|Prelude to the Siege}}

In the year [[2021]], the Autobots successfully resurrected Optimus Prime as a combiner; although he'd live for only seven days as a result of his many previous deaths, he was able to combine with several of his Autobot friends to form an improved version of Optimus Maximus. Despite this boost in power, however, Optimus Maximus and his components were quickly defeated by [[Megatronia]], a combiner composed of female Decepticons. {{storylink|Megatronia Chapter}} Meanwhile, a time-travelling [[Galvatron II|Galvatron]] from another reality invaded this world and possessed [[Cyclonus (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Cyclonus]]'s body as his new vessel. Though Galvatron planned to usurp Unicron's body in order to implement the "[[Grand Galvatron]]" scheme, the crippled god offered him an alternative; instead he would summon from across the [[multiverse]] others who shared similar thoughts of revenge, and together they would unite to become a new "Grand Galvatron". Galvatron accepted and Cyclonus was joined by [[Breakdown (WFC)|Breakdown]], [[Roller (G1)|Roller]], [[Thrust (Armada)|Thrust]], and a partially re-materialized [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] into Galvatron's new body. Though Unicron ordered Galvatron to seize [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] for him, Galvatron planned to betray Unicron once again, and take control of his homeworld for himself. {{storylink|Grand Galvatron Chapter}}

In their new combined form, the team attacked Cybertron until [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] split them apart. Cyclonus and the rest made their way to [[Vector Sigma]]'s chamber before re-combining to do battle with [[Sky Reign]]. {{storylink|Sky Reign Chapter}} With the arrival of [[Megaempress]], the rest of the team fled, leaving Cyclonus and Galvatron at the empress's mercy as she threatened to enthrall them both. They were saved when a revived Optimus Prime took Megaempress and her soldiers on. {{storylink|Megatronia Chapter}} When Unicron himself showed up and tried to take Cybertron as his new body, Galvatron was angered and had Cyclonus attack the dark god, but he ended up blasted out of the sky and knocked unconscious. {{Storylink|Ruination Chapter, Part One}} Galvatron II's spirit then left Cyclonus's body, but he remained able to combine and, after recovering, convinced the rest of the team to form Grand Galvatron once more and help defeat Unicron. After their victory, he went into space, plotting to restore the Decepticon army by becoming the next Galvatron. {{Storylink|Ruination Chapter, Part Two}}

[[File:Roadcaesar robotmode.jpg|thumb|right|250px|]]

Although early Cybertronian combiners were lumbering brutes who struggled with intellectual or emotional issues, drawbacks that would be exemplified by the oafish [[Dinoking]], the [[Breastforce]] would be the first combiner team to bypass this debilitating weakness: their combined form, [[Liokaiser]], proved an intelligent and cunning warrior. {{storylink|Unite! Liokaiser}} Not to be outdone, the Autobots retaliated with next-generation combiners of their own: the Autobot [[Brainmaster]]s could unite into [[Road Caesar]], a perfect three-way fusion with an unbreakable fighting spirit, {{storylink|Attack! Leozack}} while the modular [[Multiforce]] could assume multiple sub-combinations or perform a six-way combination to form the mighty [[Landcross (SG)|Landcross]]. {{storylink|Unite!! Multiforce}}

[[File:Volcaticon.jpg|thumb|left|250px]]

When the [[Quintesson]]s escaped their dimensional prison, they arrived on [[Dinobot Island (G1)|Dinobot Island]] in the year [[2050]], where they spotted and hoped to subdue the Dinobots to use as merchandise. Towards this goal, they summoned [[Predaking (G1)|Predaking]], who had the Dinobots on the ropes till Grimlock was encouraged by telepathic messages from the [[Primus|Oracle]] of the past universe to use [[Earth]]'s [[Angolmois Energy]] to manifest his heart's strength in reality. With this energy and the lending of an [[Energon Matrix]] from [[Kakuryu (G1)|Grimmaster]], Grimlock and the other four original Dinobots combined into the mighty Volcanicus. Soon after, Volcanicus was contacted by [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike Witwicky]] about the [[Selector]] revolt at [[Neo Scramble City]], so Volcanicus's components split up to go and assist their human allies against the [[Cybertron Alliance]]. {{storylink|Volcanicus comic 1}}

The Technobots arrived as Grimlock faced down [[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]], who had already defeated the other [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]]; unwilling to hurt the humans, the six combined into [[Volcaticon]]: a new cross-factional combiner that combined Grimlock's strength and take-charge attitude with the intellect of the five Technobots. Although Volcaticon announced his intention to find a solution that would benefit the humans and Selectors alike, the Quintessons attacked and knocked the new combiner back into his components. To resist a barrage of corrosive gas bombs, the two teams reformed into Computron and Volcanicus. {{storylink|Volcanicus comic 2}} With the Cybertron Alliance combiners on the back foot thanks to a deblitating [[Angolmois Energy]] attack and a subsequent [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcon]] assault that took the female combiner [[Orthia]] out of action, a number of Technobots, Aerialbots, and Protectobots joinined up as another ad-hoc combination they dubbed "[[Comperian]]". Quintesson enforcer Abominus thus fought fire with fire by stealing [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] and [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]]'s limbs to become [[Abomenaticus]]. The two combiners fought till [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron Omega]] threatened to take all of Earth's Angolmois Energy, so Abominus reformed to use the full capability of the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]]' Angolmois-manipulating nature and shifted his focus onto Megatron Omega. {{Storylink|Abominus comic 2}}

Combiner technology would persist and evolve into the distant future; [[Maximal]] combiners like [[Magnaboss (BWII)|Magnaboss]] and [[Tripledacus]] were powerful warriors, but eschewed the direct mind-melding technology of their ancestors in favour of a simpler system where each individual component worked in tandem to coordinate their attacks. {{storylink|The Combined Giant, Tripledacus}} [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]] warriors like [[Starscream (BW)|Starscream]] and [[BB (BW)|BB]] could temporarily combine into [[Formation Scream]] while in vehicle mode, and tripartite warriors like [[Magmatron]] possessed a unique [[beast mode]] that could split and recombine at will. {{storylink|Big Convoy, Move Out}} The [[Seacon (BWII)|Seacon]]s used a quintuple combination system when they formed into [[God Neptune]], while the Jointrons incorporated a triple combination system that directly integrated their bodies into a greater whole. {{storylink|Face the Setting Sun}}

{{--}}

=====''TV Magazine'' comic continuity=====
Powerglide rescued a [[Battle Dog|puppy]] that was juiced up on energy thanks to the Decepticons. Before it died, the puppy transferred his power to Powerglide. This temporarily energized Powerglide with Scramble Power, which he used to combine with other Autobot Minibots. The [[Minibot combiner]] was then easily able to defeat [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] using the "Minibot Warrior Spiral Attack". {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 8|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers #8}}

=====''Wings Universe''=====
[[File:TheComingStormPart6-Bruticus.jpg|thumb|right|300px]]

{{Wingsnote}}

Combining technology was the brainchild of the Decepticon warlord [[Deathsaurus (G1)|Deathsaurus]], who had tinkered with the technology for many years before the [[Stealth Team (G1)|Stealth Team]] discovered his fortress at [[Gygax]]. {{storylink|Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 36|Bruticus's ''Wings Universe'' profile}} He perfected the technology about nine million years ago and tested his invention out on his new recruits the Combaticons, which gave them the ability to combine into [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]]. {{storylink|The Coming Storm: Part 5}} Later, Megatron defeated Deathsaurus to become sole leader of the Decepticons, and stole Deathsaurus's technology to augment the Constructicons so that they could form Devastator. {{storylink|Battle Lines, Part 5}}

In the year [[2984]], the combiners [[Big Rescue Force]] and [[Big Motorvator]] could be glimpsed milling about in the [[Galadria Space Bridge Outpost]] in the [[Delta Prysmos Sector]]. {{storylink|Hoist the Flag}}

{{--}}

=====''Deviations''=====
[[File:TF-Deviations-Megascream-Combiner.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]

In a timeline where Megatron died before ever becoming Galvatron, it would be [[Starscream (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Starscream]] who became [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]]'s herald. As the newly-christened "Megascream", he bargained with Unicron to enhance his inner circle of warriors so that he could combine with them. As Unicron betrayed his minion and launched a direct attack on Cybertron, [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] attempted to use the [[Matrix of Leadership]] to destroy Unicron, but Megascream combined with his troops into a towering new form and easily crushed Optimus under his fist. Ultimately, [[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Hot Rod]] saved the day by first teleporting the wounded Optimus to safety, then opening the Matrix to sacrifice himself but destroy both Unicron and Megascream in the process. {{storylink|Transformers: Deviations|Deviations}}

{{--}}

=====''Timelines''=====
An [[energon]] infusion from the Aerialbots gave the recently-arrived Protectobots the power to combine into Defensor. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 21/9/2015}}

Exposure to an [[Enigma of Combination|arcane Autobot artifact]] gave [[Ratchet (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Ratchet]] the power of combination and the unique ability to act as a "universal donor" for any combiner by acting as a replacement limb. While in an arm configuration, he possessed a unique "healing touch" that could re-energize and rejuvenate injured Cybertronians, but overusing this power by trying to heal severe injuries could forcibly disengage the combination. {{storylink|Ratchet (G1)/toys#BotCon2016|Customization class G1 cartoon Ratchet bio}}

====Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity====
[[File:DevastatorDissectionDreamwave.jpg|thumb|right|200px|What, no Terror Claws? No Cranium Regulation Unit? What kind of lame dissection is this?!]]

The combination process has its roots in the "mass intellect" experiments carried out by the Decepticons during the earliest phases of the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]]; building off the well-established science of mechanically combining bodies, the next step would be to mesh individual electro-neural impulses together into a unified mind. Following the failure of the planetary engine turbines, {{storylink|Transformers: The Ultimate Guide}} [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] recruited the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]]s to refine this technology into a viable weapon that would multiply a small group of warriors beyond the sum of their parts, but early experiments into this "cofunctional interlock" technology proved unsuccessful: the mind-merging experiments amplified stronger minds and drowned out weaker ones. {{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye #8}}

After a period of trial and error, the Constructicons developed a unique "hyper vortex processor" that would preserve the minds of the individual within the combined whole. By testing the technology on themselves, the Constructicons became the prototype for all future combination experiments, but the rudimentary process left their combined form a dimwitted brute who needed all six Constructicons to agree on a single course of action to function. Despite these drawbacks, Devastator's destructive capabilities greatly pleased Megatron, and the Decepticon leader began planning for a full-scale combiner program. {{storylink|Transformers: The Ultimate Guide}} Combiner technology remained risky and unpredictable; only those rare Cybertronians with the correct predisposition and the ability to work as a team could safely undergo the upgrade, and unfit Decepticons who failed the trial period usually wound up insane or dead. {{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye #8}}

[[File:Escalation-DevastatorVsDefensor.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]

Eventually, the [[Autobot Science Harmonium]] obtained combiner schematics from the Decepticons, successfully reverse-engineered the mass intellect process, and dramatically overhauled the procedure to create safer and more efficient combiners. [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] and [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]], the combined forms of the Autobot [[Special Teams]], utilized advanced compartmentalized neural processors that maintained the integrity of individual brainwaves while also drawing on each to create an integrated mind. {{storylink|Confrontation (issue)|Confrontation}} The Decepticons retaliated by turning the [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]] and the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]] into combiners; as this arms race escalated, the [[Crisis Intervention Accord]] resulted in all of the Special Teams agreeing to become non-aligned parties. {{storylink|Transformers: The Ultimate Guide}} After Optimus and Megatron vanished, [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] and his breakaway faction of [[Ultracon]]s flouted the Accords by deliberately recruiting Devastator into their ranks. {{storylink|Escalation}} As a result, the Protectobots intervened, although in the end they took him down by separating and fighting as individual robots. Despite all the advances that'd been made, the second-generation combiners still suffered from limited intellects, and Protectobots were trying to iron out these drawbacks while [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and Megatron were missing. {{storylink|Confrontation (issue)|Confrontation}}

After somehow travelling to Earth in 2002, Devastator spread chaos in [[San Francisco]] and trounced the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbot]]s when they formed Superion to take him down. {{storylink|Prime Directive issue 4|Prime Directive #4}} Although Devastator proved tough enough to withstand a direct nuclear blast, the individual Constructicons suffered massive damage that permanently fused them together. {{storylink|Transformers: Fusion|Fusion}} In 2003, [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] had [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] and [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] release the Stunticons, who'd been deemed too dangerous to function in society, from [[Iacon (polity)|Iacon]]'s [[Detention Banks]]. Menasor ran amok for a while, but [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] took down the combiner by insulting his components one by one; as his individual consciousnesses began bickering over whose fault it was that they were losing, Ultra Magnus rammed the paralyzed combiner in the chest and forced him to separate. {{storylink|Passive Aggression}}

After locating the rogue Predacons on the planet [[Beest (planet)|Beest]], Megatron bested their leader Razorclaw, brought them back into the Decepticon fold, and rebuilt them with combiner technology. {{storylink|Welcome to the Jungle}} As Predaking, they battled Bruticus, who had recently suffered damage at the hands of [[Sunstorm (G1)|Sunstorm]], and triumphed. {{storylink|The Route of All Evil}}

Other groups of Cybertronians utilized a less extreme version of combiner technology—robots like the [[Micromaster Combiner]]s, who combined to form a single vehicle mode, or armor-based powerups like [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]'s [[Powermaster]] trailer, did not rely on mental merging. {{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye #8}}

{{--}}

====''Transformers/G.I. Joe''====
The Aerialbots formed Superion during a battle against [[Cobra]] and the Decepticons in the [[Fera Islands]]; {{storylink|Wolves}} as he waded toward the [[Terrordrome]], he was forced to hold his fire when Optimus noticed that Cobra was using their slaves as human shields. In response, Cobra opened fire on Superion with [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]'s massive cannon mode; {{storylink|Trenches}} although Superion shielded his allies for as long as he could, he eventually perished. {{storylink|The Iron Fist}}

Notably, the [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]] of this reality was ''not'' a combiner, nor even a Cybertronian; he was born on Earth in [[1939]] as an unholy, unliving hybrid of Cybertronian and human technology, a walking engine of destruction created to be the ultimate weapon. {{storylink|Wolves}}

{{--}}

====''The Beast Within''====
[[File:THE BEAST.jpg|thumb|right|250px]]

When Megatron and the other Decepticons held the upper hand on the battlefield, [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] and the four Dinobots displayed the ability to combine into a monstrous creature known only as the "[[Beast (G1)|Beast]]", an out-of-control berserker who easily slaughtered his way through the Decepticons and killed every Decepticon combiner Megatron sent to stop him. {{storylink|The Beast Within}} However, the Beast then turned on his nominal allies, and chased the Autobots around for a while before the survivors could bait him into falling off a cliff and killing himself. {{storylink|The Beast Within Part 2, Consequences}}

{{--}}

====''Hearts of Steel''====
After reawakening in the 19th century, the [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticon]]s displayed the ability to combine into a self-propelled, heavily armed railcar known as the "[[Insectrain]]". {{storylink|Hearts of Steel issue 2|Hearts of Steel #2}}

{{IDW HOS}}

====2005 IDW continuity====
[[File:AllGoodThings-Monstructor.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Wubba wubba wubba is Monstructor's song.]]

The art of combination came easily to other mechanical species like the "omnicombinational" [[Ammonite]]s, where any one member of their species could combine with any other; {{storylink|Little Victories}} although all [[Transformer]]s possessed the ''capacity'' for combination encoded in their [[CNA]], only a handful would consciously manifest this ability in their lifetime as a result of external stimuli. {{storylink|Dinobot Hunt (IDW)|Dinobot Hunt}} The history of Cybertronian combiner technology began with [[Nexus Prime]], a member of the [[Thirteen]] in the years before the [[First Cybertronian Civil War]]. His [[Enigma of Combination]], an extremely powerful artifact of unknown origin, could instantly reconfigure two or more Cybertronians into a combiner, melding their minds so that they could coordinate their actions on a higher-dimensional plane known as [[antespace]]. {{storylink|The Falling, Chapter 6: Unforgivable|Unforgivable}} Most combiners utilized [[Size changing|mass displacement]] to some degree—when their components combined, they also grew in size to the point where they towered over their fellow Cybertronians. {{storylink|All Hail Optimus Part 5: As Above...So Below|As Above...So Below}}

When the [[First Cybertronian Civil War]] swept Cybertron, Nexus colluded with his ally [[Shockwave (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Onyx Prime]] to create an army of [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]]s that fused beasts and 'bots together. {{storylink|Earthfall Chapter 3: The Mind Bomb|The Mind Bomb}} Not all Cybertronians viewed combination as a gift, however: [[Darklands|Darklander]] warrior [[Galvatron (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Galvatron]], already prejudiced against Cybertronians with [[beast mode]]s, viewed combination as a perversion that "rotted away the individual", {{storylink|Onyx Interface Part Three: ONoffON|OnoffON}} his one-man war against Nexus Prime's armies singlehandedly drove the ancient Headmasters extinct. Eventually, Galvatron confronted and murdered Nexus Prime, stole the Enigma, and when he could not destroy it he jettisoned it into space in the hopes that it would burn up in a nearby star. {{storylink|The Crucible}}

[[Nova Prime]] led the planet out of the shadow of war and into a new [[Golden Age]], but his early idealism soon gave way to a twisted, fascistic imperialism: inspired by an ancient legends of the [[Guiding Hand]], and a time when "[['Til all are one|all were one]]", he sought to turn combination into a tool of conquest, and instructed his chief theoretical scientist [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]] to create a combiner without the Enigma. {{storylink|The Crucible}} Without the reality-warping power of the Enigma, Jhiaxus's experiments yielded only a crude recreation of what once was; this stunted form of combination forcibly merged the bodies and minds of the [[Pretender Monster|six volunteers]] that Jhiaxus had conscripted to create a violently insane personality, and the newly-christened "[[Monstructor (G1)|Monstructor]]" ran amok in [[Crystal City]] until [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] could seal him in a dimensional prison. {{storylink|Primus: All Good Things}}

[[File:Windblade volume2 devisiun.jpg|thumb|right|350px]]

Although true combination on the mental level remained out of reach, some Cybertronians discovered safer but less dramatic forms of combination, including shared "duocombiner" [[alternate mode]]s. {{storylink|Shadowplay, Part 2: Patternism|Patternism}} A "branched [[spark]]" telepathically linked them to a [[twin]] sibling; while incredibly rare on Cybertron, the Transformer colonists on the planet [[Devisiun (planet)|Devisiun]] evolved into an entire civilization of duocombiners, although they did not consider themselves "true" combiners. {{storylink|Windblade vol. 2 issue 6|Windblade vol. 2 #6}} The twelve 'bots who made up the [[Functionist Council]] could all combine into a single alternate mode, a religious ornament known as the [[Key to Vector Sigma]]. {{storylink|Dissolution Part 4: Bad Moon Rising|Bad Moon Rising}}

Serious research into combiner technology stagnated for millennia until the outbreak of the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]], when [[Megatron (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Megatron]], seeking to create a Decepticon superweapon, recruited Jhiaxus's former student [[Shockwave (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Shockwave]] into the Decepticons, provided him with a laboratory and ample resources, and ordered him to continue where his master had left off. {{storylink|Shockwaves}} An early attempt involved physically rebuilding five Cybertronians so that they transformed into four limbs and a torso; humiliated by the loss of his alternate mode, right leg [[Ambulon]] defected to the Autobots and the "[[Combicon]]" project was abandoned. {{storylink|How Ratchet Got His Hands Back}} {{storylink|No Guns, No Swords, No Briefcases}} When Monstructor escaped from his dimensional prison, the Autobots apprehended him {{storylink|Spotlight: Optimus Prime}} and took his individual components into custody in the hopes that they could be rehabilitated. [[Jetfire (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Jetfire]] and the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobot]]s studied them with the goal of rehabilitating them, but the difficulty of the technology meant that they didn't get the chance before the [[Decepticon Secret Service]] captured the "Monstructor Six". {{storylink|Spotlight: Arcee}} Eventually, however, Shockwave left the Decepticons to pursue his [[Regenesis|pet project]], in his absence, it would be [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]] who created the first successful combiner: by using the like-minded [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]]s as test subjects, [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] avoided Monstructor's debilitating personality flaws but remained sluggish in both mind and body. {{storylink|Before the Dawn}} After [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] died, the Constructicons could still use his corpse to form Devastator, but the "dead leg" left Devastator hobbled. {{storylink|Chaos Part Three: Kings|Kings}} In the years following the Surge, other Decepticons subgroups acquired combiner upgrades, but their attempts generally went poorly: the [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticon]]s rebuilt themselves using black market technology from [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]] but couldn't properly unify their minds, {{storylink|Things Fall Apart, Part 5: "Earthworks"|Earthworks}} while the [[Predacon (G1)|Predacon]]s didn't even get as far as combining due to their inability to agree on ''anything''. {{storylink|The Iron Klaw}}

[[File:IDWRID14 prowlstator.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]

In the final battle of the Great War, the eldritch [[D-Void]] harnessed a mysterious energy emitted from Cybertron's core and used it to suppress the individual wills of Galvatron, his [[Sweep (G1)|Sweep]]s, and every Decepticon on the planet save Megatron, then merged them all into a [[Deceptigod|monstrous avatar]] slaved to the D-Void's will. {{storylink|Chaos Part Three: Kings|Kings}} After the end of the war, Megatron learned to manipulate this same energy as part of a new plan to claim dominance over Iacon; when the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbot]]s ventured into the Cybertronian wilderness, this energy caused the group to became increasingly aggressive toward each other until they spontaneously combined into [[Superion (G1)|Superion]], which may have been a CNA-level defense mechanism against the hostile signal. {{storylink|Dinobot Hunt (IDW)|Dinobot Hunt}} {{storylink|Night and the City}} At the same time, Bombshell used his [[cerebro-shell]]s to brainwash [[Prowl (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Prowl]] and turn his quarters into a secret "black room". In preparation for Megatron's impending return, Bombshell rebuilt the remaining Constructicons so that they could combine with any suitable Cybertronian, upgraded Megatron so that he could combine with the Constructicons, and used Prowl as a guinea pig to form a new Devastator under Bombshell's control. {{storylink|Before the Dawn}} Bombshell's death enabled a new, Prowl-centric Devastator personality, who ran amok and grievously injured Superion. {{storylink|Plan for Everything}} Before Megatron could trigger his own Devastator combination, the Autobots stopped him. {{storylink|Heavy Is the Head}}

United by their shared hatred of [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Spike Witwicky]], the Constructicons saw Prowl as a kindred spirit and allied themselves with the Autobots to stay with their new leader, {{storylink|Second Exodus}} and formed Devastator once more to defeat Monstructor during the "Dark Cybertron" crisis. {{storylink|Black Planet: Dark Cybertron Chapter 11|Black Planet}} While on Earth, Prowl came to rely on this new Devastator as his heavy-duty enforcer during the search for [[Alpha Trion (G1)|Alpha Trion]], {{storylink|Earthfall Part 2: Detonation Boulevard|Detonation Boulevard}} and later the [[Enigma of Combination]]. {{storylink|The Onyx Interface Conclusion: The Obliterati|The Obliterati}} However, as Galvatron foretold, the stress of repeated combination took its toll: even when not combined, the Constructicons began losing their individual quirks and finishing each other's sentences, {{storylink|Earthfall Chapter 3: The Mind Bomb|The Mind Bomb}} while Prowl suffered energon "nosebleeds" and unconsciously referred to his teammates as "Scrapper". {{storylink|Earthfall Chapter 5: I Dream of Wires|I Dream of Wires}} Eventually, Prowl admitted that his experiences as Devastator meant that he no longer saw the Decepticons as enemies, but as a part of him. {{storylink|Now and On Earth}}

[[File:AllThatRemains-OptimusMaximus.jpg|thumb|right|250px]]

This dramatic upswing of combiner activity sparked an unofficial arms race between the different factions vying for control of the planet. Although Cybertronian ruler [[Starscream (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Starscream]] and his faction of neutrals did not yet control a combiner, he revived a comatose [[Wheeljack (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Wheeljack]] and convinced him to repair the damaged Superion. {{storylink|The World of Tomorrow}} Using the [[Enigma of Combination]] that Starscream's lackey [[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] poached from Earth, Superion soon returned to full functionality with [[Alpha Bravo]] and [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] serving as new components. {{storylink|The Sum and Its Parts}} Superion's return coincided with the restoration of [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]]'s [[space bridge]] and a potential alliance with the lost colony of [[Caminus (planet)|Caminus]]. In the hopes that he could conquer Caminus and the other [[Cybertronian colonies]] to form a new galactic empire, Starscream orchestrated the "[[Combiner Wars (event)|Combiner Wars]]", which saw the Enigma repeatedly change hands as different factions tried to conquer or save Caminus: combatants included Superion, a rebuilt Menasor, {{storylink|First Contact (IDW)|First Contact}} [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]], formed from the loosely affiliated "[[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobot]]s", {{storylink|Mistakes and Mayhem}} and a new version of Devastator that incorporated Starscream's lackey [[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] in place of Prowl. Determined to keep Starscream from conquering the galaxy by forcibly cutting Cybertron off from the universe, Prowl pressganged Optimus Prime and several other Autobots into becoming [[Optimus Maximus (G1)|Optimus Maximus]], {{storylink|You, Me, and the Universe}} but when he confronted their personalities in antespace the four members of the combination convinced him to work with them, fight for a united future, and defeat Devastator in a galaxy-spanning brawl. {{storylink|All That Remains}} After the formation of the [[Council of Worlds]], Arcee tried to steal the Enigma of Combination, sparking in motion a chain of events that led to six visiting [[Torchbearer]]s accidentally merging into the powerful [[Victorion]]. {{storylink|An Uneventful Night}} When Cybertron opened diplomatic relations with the citizens of Devisiun, Starscream brought Superion along to impress them and offered them a place on the Council in exchange for combiner technology. {{storylink|Windblade vol. 2 issue 6|Windblade vol. 2 #6}}

Combiners created by the Enigma possessed a high degree of mental stability occasionally manifested unusual powers, including the ability to split their bodies apart or even fire their limbs as rocket-powered projectiles. {{storylink|Mistakes and Mayhem}} Victorion displayed a number of unusual traits: not only did she possess a suite of gravity-related powers, allowing her to fly under her own power or crush objects from afar, {{storylink|Conquerors Part 4: Perihelion|Perihelion}} she proved a sophisticated and erudite thinker capable of verbally sparring with Optimus Prime. {{storylink|Conquerors Part 2: Lagrange}} However, this kind of combination ''also'' proved addictive: Defensor and Superion displayed an unwillingness to split into their components, and Prowl noted that combiners teams had trouble staying separate. {{storylink|You, Me, and the Universe}} After his arrest, Prowl taunted Optimus that a part of him would always exist in Prime's mind due to their brief mental merge as Optimus Maximus. {{storylink|Now and On Earth}} Aboard the ''[[Lost Light]]'', Defensor was able to substitute Ambulon as a replacement limb after [[Rook (CW)|Rook]]'s death, but was defeated by [[Star Saber (G1)|Star Saber]] shortly afterwards. Under unclear circumstances, the Decepticon combiner [[Liokaiser]] served under Decepticon leader [[Nickel]]. {{storylink|The Plotters' Club (Part 3): Journey's End|Journey's End}}

[[File:AHO-earthannexed.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]

While Optimus Prime was away on Cybertron, the Earthbound Autobots discovered that [[G.B. Blackrock|Garrison Blackrock]] had upgrade some of his mass-produced [[Seeker clone]] troopers into tripartite combiners. Later still, Optimus brought Superion and Victorion back with him when he made the controversial decision to annex Earth. They discovered that, thanks to the machinations of [[G.B. Blackrock|Garrison Blackrock]], who had previously reverse-engineered the Enigma of Combination, its energies had "infected" all of Earth's computerized technology and turned the entire planet into an Enigma--during the final battle against Galvatron and his rogue Decepticon faction, Galvatron betrayed his principles in the name of victory and forcibly amalgamated Cybertronians together to create [[Galvatronus (CW)|Galvatronus]] and [[Sky Reign]]. {{storylink|All Hail Optimus Part 4: It's Beginning To And Back Again|It's Beginning To And Back Again}} To nullify this "Earth-Enigma", Superion incorporated part of the Enigma's code into his own mind, then permanently separated himself into his components, effectively killing himself. {{storylink|All Hail Optimus Part 5: As Above...So Below|As Above...So Below}}
Around this time, the [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]] sought to access the mind of their former teammate Swindle, who'd supposedly dug up compromising information on Starscream's role in the Combiner Wars. To do this, they stole the Enigma and used it on themselves to create [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]], but their inexperience with combination turned their combined form into a rampaging monster. {{storylink|The Line Between Us}} On Earth, [[human]] dictator [[Iron Klaw|Count "Iron Klaw" von Rani]] used a copy of the extraterrestrial [[Talisman (G1)|Talisman]] to suppress the individual minds of the Predacons and turn them into "[[Predaking (G1)|Predaking]]". When [[Snake-Eyes]] smashed the console that kept them docile, their argumentative personalities resurfaced and tore the combiner apart. {{storylink|The Iron Klaw}} During "Onyx Prime's" invasion of Cybertron, Victorion wound up clashing with a misguided Devastator, and thanks to an extra surge of power-enhancing [[Ore-8]] she unleashed a devastating gravitational wave that crushed Devastator to atoms. {{storylink|The Falling, Chapter 6: Unforgivable|Unforgivable}}

During [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]]'s invasion of Cybertron, Monstructor returned and fatally wounded Victorion by killing [[Stormclash]] and forcing the other [[Torchbearer]]s to break apart. {{storylink|Road's End}} When the battle moved to Earth, the Aerialbots recombined into Superion , reactivated the latent Earth-Enigma by doing so, and allowed [[Slide]], a Devisen duocombiner who'd lost her ability to transform after the death of [[Oiler|her brother]], to sub in as Victorion's new leg. Together, Victorion and Superion took on Monstructor and finally put an end to their monstrous progenitor. {{storylink|Ceremony}}

{{--}}

====2006 IDW ''Beast Wars'' continuity====
[[File:DawnOfThePredacus-magnabossvsmegatron.jpg|thumb|right|300px]]

In the twilight of the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]], [[Tarantulas (BW)|Tarantulas]] oversaw the creation of [[Predacus]], a combiner formed from the members of the [[Tripredacus Council]]. {{storylink|Dawn of the Predacus}} The Autobots and [[Maximal]]s retaliated by creating [[Magnaboss (BW)|Magnaboss]], a combiner made up some of the most seasoned Autobot veterans. {{storylink|Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook|Beast Wars Sourcebook}} Although [[Under-3|an untested Maximal]] would wind up taking Perceptor's intended role in the combination, Magnaboss and Predacus both played vital roles in the final battle of the

Both combiners played vital roles in the final battle of the war before the ratification of the [[Pax Cybertronia]]; while Magnaboss took out the 'bot who would one day call himself "[[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]]", Predacus eliminated "Megatron's" trump card, Predaking. {{storylink|Dawn of the Predacus}} By the time of the [[Great Upgrade]], peacetime society dismissed combiners as energy-inefficient and the technology was largely forgotten. Magnaboss disappeared from the public eye, but the Tripredacus Council refined the technology to create [[Tripredacus]]. Other notable combiners included [[Magnaboss (BWII)|Magnaboss II]] and [[Tripledacus]], who participated in later Maximal-Predacon skirmishes over [[Angolmois Energy]]. {{storylink|Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook|Beast Wars Sourcebook}}
{{--}}

====''Transformers vs. G.I. Joe''====
[[File:TFJoe12-Defensor.jpg|thumb|left|250px]]

To combat a [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]] invasion, the Constructicons formed Devastator. In spite of being able to deter the initial invasion force, he was rammed by the ''[[Defiant (G.I. Joe)|Defiant]]'', {{storylink|Targetmasters (issue)|Targetmasters}} which killed Long Haul and took Devastator out of commission. {{storylink|Earth: R.I.P.}}

As Cybertron inched ever closer to Earth, the Decepticon/Cobra alliance attacked [[New York City]], the Combaticons combining into Bruticus. {{storylink|Expelled from the Garden}}

During the lead-up to the final battle, the [[Rescuebot]]s—a group of Autobots who'd developed a particularly strong affection for humanity—sealed their holy oath to protect mankind with a unique "Combination Lock". This combination lock allowed them all to spontaneously merge into [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]]; in the final battle, the united G.I. Joe-Autobot force fetched up against a number of combiners, including Predaking, Abominus, Menasor, and a rebuilt Devastator. {{storylink|Transformers vs. G.I. Joe issue 12|Transformers vs. G.I. Joe #12}} Megatron briefly combined the energies of his black hole with the Matrix of Leadership to absorb all of the Autobots into his being to become the monstrous "Mega-Megatron" until [[Shipwreck]] and [[Polly]] crashed the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]'' into his new body and freed the captive Autobots. {{storylink|The War Never Ends}}

{{--}}

====''Beast Wars: Uprising''====
[[File:CulturalAppropriation-MonsterousVsDevastator.jpg|thumb|right|250px]]

[[Nucleon (TR)|Nucleon]] considered gestalt technology to be a crude precursor to the [[binary bonding]] process that would come to define the later days of the Great War. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}} A number of combiner teams survived into the era of the [[Builder of Cybertron|Builder]]s, [[Maximal]]s, and [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]]s, including the Protectobots, Aerialbots, and Constructicons, but to survive on a crumbling post-war Cybertron the teams downsized into fuel-efficient [[Micromaster]] bodies. {{storylink|Micro-Aggressions}} The Constructicons retained the ability to form [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]], but by the 24th century the team had evolved into a two-thirds Autobot unit led by [[Hightower (RID)|Hightower]]. {{storylink|A Brush With Infamy–Prologue}}

Inspired by the legendary titans of old, a number of other parties would go on to acquire combiner technology: [[Magnaboss (BW)|Magnaboss]], the first proto-race combiner, drew upon the strength and wisdom of the Maximals who made up the [[Maximal High Council]]: [[Silverbolt (Magnaboss)|Silver Bolt]], [[Tigatron]], [[Santon]], [[Airazor (BW)|Airazor]], and [[Lio Junior|Lio Minor]]. Not to be outdone, the 'bots of the [[Tripredacus Council]] stole combination technology from their rivals and used it on themselves to become [[Tripredacus]]. {{storylink|Derailment}} More ominously, the street gang known as the "Antares Eight"—in reality, a group of dimensionally-displaced [[Monster GoBot]]s—could call upon their own personal gestalt, [[Monsterous]]. When these dimensional invaders attempted to bait the [[Human Confederacy]] into destroying Cybertron, Devastator faced off with the GoBot combiner and ultimately emerged triumphant. {{storylink|Cultural Appropriation}}

During the [[Vehicon Apocalypse]], Devastator and Magnaboss joined the final assault on the [[Grand Mal]].A beam from the ancient battle station hit both combiners, and though Magnaboss survived the battle with only [[Lio Junior|one component]] lost, three of Devastator's components perished. {{storylink|Derailment}} At the same time, the Tripredacus Council used their Tripredacus form to hunt down and slay [[Preditron]] before a vengeful [[Ser-Ket (BWU)|Ser-Ket]] killed two of his three components. {{storylink|Derailment}} With the dawn of the [[Cybertronian Parliament]], the surviving Constructicons recruited [[Wideload (G1)|Wideload]], [[Hauler|Road Hauler]] and [[Steam Hammer]] as replacements. The new, construction-minded Devastator who emerged would be hailed as the champion of the remaining Builders. {{storylink|The Inexorable March}}

====''Timelines''====
As the Autobot war machine came to increasingly rely on Combiners, the Autobots began taking steps to minimize their drawbacks. Most glaringly, the loss of a single member would all but incapacitate the whole; to minimize this tactical weakness, the Protectobots began drafting auxiliary members who could replace any given component when nessecary, including [[Rook (CW)|Rook]], [[Skyfeather]], [[Heatrock]], and [[Medix (G1)|Medix]]. {{storylink|Medix (G1)#Toys|Customization class Medix bio}}

====''Of Masters and Mayhem''====
[[File:OMAMFinale WreckageVThunderMayhem.jpg|thumb|left|250px]]

During the Great War, combiners played a significant role, and both sides invested significant time and effort into producing combat-ready combiners. {{storylink|Lively Pursuit}} During one such experiment, [[Loudpedal]] and [[Oil Slick (G1)|Oil Slick]] accidentally created [[Toxitron (G1)|Toxitron]], a malformed mutant who spewed an endless torrent of noxious acid. {{storylink|The Toxic Transformer}} Soon, however, [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] and his underlings began tampering with forces that the Cybertronian race was not meant to control: seeking to create the "ultimate combiner",he combined [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]]'s [[Point One Percenter]] spark with the artificial [[Matrix of Malice]], which formed the core of the terrifying [[Thunder Mayhem]]. Soon enough, Thunder Mayhem turned on his creators and rampaged across Cybertron: over the course of this one-sided war, it destroyed every other combiner, and the few survivors of this mass extinction assumed that Thunder Mayhem had annihilated Cybertron itself. {{storylink|Life Finds a Way}}

Wrecker leader [[Impactor (G1)|Impactor]] began travelling the stars to assemble a team capable of taking down Thunder Mayhem and slowly assembled a new crew of Wreckers from the few surviving Cybertronians he found throughout the galaxy. Toxitron, [[Alpha Bravo]], and [[Offroad (CW)|Offroad]] were already combination-compatible,and [[Fractyl]] and [[Punch (G1)|Counterpunch]] recieved full rebuilds to accommodate combiner technology. Fractyl reverse-engineered the power of Thunder Mayhem's spark using a substance called "[[Greenergon]]" and implanted a supply of it into Toxitron to act as a booster when they combined. However, their their combined form went berserk and tried to kill Impactor. Terrified by the prospect of unleashing a second monster on the universe, Alpha Bravo murdered his friend Offroad to stop Thunder Mayhem from ever forming again, and was himself shot by Toxitron seconds later. {{storylink|Foundation and Wreckage Part 1: Deadly Aim|Deadly Aim}} Upon discovering the ruins of Cybertron, the Wreckers recruited [[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]] into their team; when alien [[Teklaan]]s attacked, Impactor used a design lab to modify Bluestreak for the process, and Wreckage re-emerged: with Impactor now leading the team from within the combiner's psyche, this new iteration proved stronger both mentally and physically... although Bluestreak's penchant for talk left him far chattier than the original Wreckage {{storylink|Lively Pursuit}}

The Wreckers finally located Thunder Mayhem on the planet Earth, and formed Wreckage to stop the monster once and for all. In battle with the destroyer of worlds, Wreckage's power was harnessed by a human with a genetic quirk named [[Lisa|Elizabeth]]. Joined by the other Earth-bound Autobots, the heroes successfully broke the Matrix of Malice and reduced Thunder Mayhem back into his separate components. {{storylink|Finale (OMAM)|Finale}}

{{--}}

====''Prime Wars Trilogy'' cartoons====
[[File:CombinerWarsMachinima-Menasorstill.jpg|thumb|right|300px]]

The Enigma of Combination created many combiners during the later years of the Great War, including [[Computron (G1)|Computron]], [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]], {{storylink|The Fall}}, [[Predaking (G1)|Predaking]], {{storylink|Primal (POTP)|Primal}} and [[Victorion]]. {{storylink|Prelude to Transformers: Combiner Wars - Victorion}} Whether or not the combiners adhered to the old factions remains debatable: although [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] pointed out that they were still made up of Autobots and Decepticons, {{storylink|The Council}} a number of combiners appear to self-identify as members of an independent faction, separate from either Autobots or Decepticons. {{storylink|The Fall}} After the end of the Great War, Optimus Prime and Megatron willingly went into self-imposed exile, and as a result the leaderless combiners fell into a period of vicious, destructive infighting known as the "[[Combiner Wars (event)|Combiner Wars]]". The [[Council of Worlds]] came into possession of the Enigma and considered using it to stem the conflict—either fighting fire with fire by creating a new combiner army, or by simply destroying ''all'' combiners. {{storylink|The Council}}

As the council debated using the Enigma to control the Combiners, [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] aassisted [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]], [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] as they attacked the Council pavilion. All of the extant combiners converged on the building, and although Devastator attempted to claim the Enigma for himself, the Council ordered Starscream to use the Enigma to take control of the combatants. {{storylink|A War of Giants}} Instead, he used it to merge himself with Devastator, Victorion, and the bodies of [[Computron (G1)|Computron]] and [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]]; his attempted "super-combination" collapsed and turned him into an unstable energy being. {{storylink|Darkest Hour (CW)|Darkest Hour}} Upon Starscream's defeat, the four other combiners were returned to normal; Victorion took ownership of the Enigma by claiming that the artefact rightfully belonged to the combiners. {{storylink|Destruction's Dawn}}

[[File:DesperateActions-UltimateVictorion.jpg|thumb|left|300px]]

During [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]]'s rampage across Cybertron, the Mistress of Flame recruited the combiners to find and reactivate [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]]. {{storylink|Our Heroes Respond}} Computron discovered that the [[Titan (group)|Titan]]'s [[transformation cog]] was damaged but the weapons systems were intact, and so Victorion ordered him to take control of the weapons and fire everything they had at Trypticon. {{storylink|Overlord and Emissary}} When Megatron arrived at Fortress Maximus and revealed the Mistress of Flame had perished, the combiners assumed him responsible and attacked. Once Windblade arrived and the fight stopped long enough for Megatron to explain, Victorion fused with the other combiners to successfully form "Ultimate Victorion", a massive warrior comprised of spectral energy. {{storylink|Desperate Actions}} Although Ultimate Victorion fell in battle against Trypticon and wound up reduced to her components once more, all of the combiners joined in the ensuing battle. {{storylink|Consumed}} {{storylink|All Things Must Pass}}

Victorion joined Megatron and his crew on their subsequent quest to find the [[Requiem Blaster (Megatronus)|Requiem Blaster]] before [[The Fallen|Megatronus]], who had already stolen the Enigma of Combination, could use it to achieve his evil goals. While exploring a marshy wilderness, the team encountered the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobot]]s, who displayed the ability to combine into [[Volcanicus (POTP)|Volcanicus]]. {{storylink|The Swamp}} Predaking attacked the group shortly afterwards and demanded that Victorion turn over the Enigma, {{storylink|Volcanicus (episode)|Volcanicus}} but they were able to peacefully talk down the ex-Decepticon combiner. {{storylink|Primal (POTP)|Primal}} Not long afterwards, [[Overlord (G1)|Overlord]] and [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Cron]] successfully killed almost all of the combiners: first Computron, Menasor, and Devastator, {{storylink|Volcanicus (episode)|Volcanicus}} then Victorion in the [[Athenaeum Sanctorum]]. {{storylink|Athenaeum Sanctorum (episode)|Athenaeum Sanctorum}} In the final battle against Megatronus, Predaking attempted to seize the Enigma and wound up fatally decapitated. {{storylink|Saga's End}}

{{--}}

====''Bumblebee'' graphic novels====
The Constructicons briefly formed Devastator during a battle for a [[cybertonium]] meteorite until the precious mineral exploded, reducing them back to the individual Constructicons. {{storylink|Transformers: Bumblebee - Go For the Gold|Go for the Gold}}

====''Mazinger Z vs. Transformers''====
As combiners, the Constructicons were the only Decepticons capable of taking on [[Kōji Kabuto]]'s [[Mazinger Z]] super robot, but not even Devastator could withstand Mazinger's infamous rocket-propelled punch that instantly collapsed the gestalt back into his components.

====''Transformers/Ghostbusters''====
When [[Gozer]] invaded Cybertron, Megatron loosed every combiner they had against the extradimensional monster, to no avail. One by one, Predaking, Devastator, and Bruticus fell, and seeing the defeat of their ultimate weapons convinced the other members of [[Decepticon High Command]] that Cybertron was doomed. {{storylink|Ghosts of Cybertron Part 2}}

====2019 IDW continuity====
[[File:SeaOfRust1-Abominus.jpg|thumb|right|350px|"I'm not afraid of the mutation anymore. Not when I have ''this'' kind of power!"]]

The origins of the Enigma of Combination are unclear, but folk wisdom held that the artifact belonged to [[Nexus Prime]], who had once wielded the artifact at the dawn of Cybertronian civilization. {{storylink|Lord of Misrule: Enigmatic|Enigmatic}} Although the Enigma could theoretically combine any group of Cybertronians into a combiner, only those who shared a common sense of purpose could successfully master the art of combination. In the years before the [[War of the Threefold Spark]], a group of Cybertronians used the Enigma to try and combine, but without a clear goal their combined form became a mindless "[[Abominus (G1)|abomination]]" that rampaged across the planet in search of fuel; when it became clear that the combiner could not be reasoned with, [[Dai Atlas (G1)|Dai Atlas]] and a legion of warriors finally felled the beast at [[Rivets Field]] in [[Iacon (polity)|Iacon]]. {{storylink|Constructicons Rising, Part 1}} {{storylink|Escape Part Three}}

[[File:ConstructiconsRisingPart4-Devastator.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]

The Enigma of Combination wound up buried in the strata beneath the region, where it remained for many megacycles until after the end of the [[War of the Threefold Spark]], when the newly-christened [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] uncovered the Enigma while on cleanup duty. Their supervisor [[Termagax]] encouraged them to embrace this artifact to push their potential to its fullest; although they successfully united into [[Devastator (G1)|a combiner]], {{storylink|Constructicons Rising, Part 1}} mastering that combined form by learning to successfully merge their minds came less easily. Only by embracing the combiner's emergent personality, and learning to harness its deep reserves of primal anger, could they use their powerful new form to rebuild Iacon. [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]], nervous about what would happen if the Constructicons lost control of their combined form, petitioned [[Nominus Prime]] to exile them to [[Mayalx]]. {{storylink|Constructicons Rising, Part 3}} Nominus agreed; to ensure that no more combiners would threaten his [[Nominus Edict|vision]] of Cybertron's future, Nominus entrusted Termagax with the Enigma in the hopes that she could keep the artifact safe until such time as it would be needed. {{storylink|Lord of Misrule: Sea of Rust I|Sea of Rust I}}

In the years that followed the ratification of the Nominus Edict, combiner technology fell by the wayside, although individuals like [[Power Punch]] and [[Direct-Hit]] appear to possess a combined vehicle mode. {{storylink|War World: Titans|Titans}} The only known Cybertronian to successfully crack the secret of combination would be the mad scientist [[Airachnid (G1)|Airachnid]], who used her knowledge to create a massive [[Combination Core]] aboard the [[Hexagon]] asteroid colony that could forcibly merge any five 'bots together. {{storylink|Light/Star}}

With a second civil war looming on the horizon, [[The Rise|Rise]] leader [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] turned his attention to acquiring a monopoly on combiner technology. {{storylink|Lord of Misrule: Sea of Rust I|Sea of Rust I}} To this end, he recruited his former allies the [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]], to manipulate the Constructicons into embracing their rage; after renaming their combined form "Devastator", the combiner laid waste to the colony that they'd built and fled into deep space. {{storylink|Constructicons Rising, Part 4}} Several cycles later, [[Scattershot (G1)|Scattershot]] and his [[Technobot (G1)|Technical Specialist]] team fell into the Combination Core and emerged as [[Computron (G1)|Computron]]. Before their combined form could gather his wits, colony administrator [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwgin]] jettisoned the entire floor from the station and launched Computron into space. However, once returned to their regular forms, Scattershot discovered that he'd somehow absorbed the power of the Combination Core. {{storylink|Light/Star}}

{{--}}

====''My Little Pony/Transformers''====
[[File:TheMightiestDinobot-Superion.jpg|thumb|right|250px]]

While stranded on [[Earth]], [[Spike (MLP)|Spike]] the [[dragon]] helped [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] defend the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'' from a Constructicon assault. Devastator easily trounced Grimlock, Spike quickly worked out how to fire the ''Ark'''s primary thrusters, and the force of the blast reduced Devastator back to his components, who promptly fled. {{storylink|Inspiring}}

During [[King Sombra]]'s magical assault on Cybertron, the evil unicorn brainwashed [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] and the other four Aerialbots with his mind-control [[magic]] and forced them to combine into Superion. Although the brainwashed combiner quickly defeated Grimlock and the other Dinobots, Spike and [[Smolder (MLP)|Smolder]] deduced that forcing Sombra to split his control five ways would weaken his magic, and taunted the individual Aerialbots by playing on their individual hangups and personality traits until Superion could no longer maintain the combination and fell apart, breaking the spell in the process. {{storylink|The Mightiest Dinobot}}

{{--}}

===''Robots in Disguise''===
====2001 ''Robots in Disguise'' cartoon====
[[File:Landfill RiD Cartoon.JPG|thumb|left|250px]]
Many of the Autobots active on Earth were combiners: most notably, the three Autobots who comprised [[Team Bullet Train]] could merge into [[Rail Racer (RID)|Rail Racer]]. {{storylink|Bullet Train to the Rescue}} The hard-working 'bots who made up the [[Build Team (RID)|Build Team]] could also combine to form [[Landfill (RID)|Landfill]], but they rarely took an active combat role due to their duties maintaining the [[Global Space Bridge]]. {{storylink|Landfill (episode)|Landfill}} Rail Racer proved a powerful trump card for the Autobots during the early phases of the war for Earth; seeking some powerful new warriors to level the playing field, [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]] leader [[Megatron (RID)|Megatron]] created the [[Commando (RID)|Commandos]], a team of crack warriors who could merge into [[Ruination (RID)|Ruination]]. {{storylink|Commandos}}

Many combiners in this reality displayed the ability to rearrange their components at will and gain specific powers in doing so: for instance, Landfill could combine in three possible configurations: one that balanced offense and defense, {{storylink|Landfill (episode)|Landfill}} a "Typhoon Mode" that optimized offensive power, {{storylink|Sky-Byte Saves the Day}}, and a "Cyclone Mode" close-quarters assault form. {{storylink|Galvatron's Revenge}} Ruination possesssed two primary configurations— a ground assault "Land Mission" mode, and a "Flight Mission" form that allow him to hover. {{storylink|Commandos}}

Even [[Optimus Prime (RID)|Optimus Prime]] displayed the power to combine: when his rebellious brother [[Ultra Magnus (RID)|Ultra Magnus]] travelled to Earth, he feigned compassion in an attempt to steal the Matrix, then forced his brother to combine with him. What he didn't expect, though, was that Optimus had as much control over their new "[[Omega Prime]]" form as Magnus did; his plan to steal the power of the Matrix backfired and he had to cooperate with Prime to defeat the Decepticons. {{storylink|Ultra Magnus: Forced Fusion!}}

{{--}}

====Ask Vector Prime====
In [[Viron 704.31 Epsilon|a dystopian alternate timeline]], [[Megazarak (Universe)|Megazarak]] [[Robosmasher|Robo-Smashed]] Rail Racer and Landfill so that they became the evil [[Dominus Trannis]] and [[Devastator (Universe Ultra)|Devastator]] respectively. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/07/30}} Megazarak slaughtered three out of the four members of the [[Protection Team]] and left their leader Hot Spot unable to combine. When [[Ultra Trion]] passed the Matrix onto him, he received new armor which gave him the abilities of his fallen comrades. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/09/07}} This new, one-bot iteration of "[[Defensor (OTFCC)|Defensor]]" tried to save Dominus Trannis, but was ultimately forced to put his old comrades out of their misery, {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/07/28}} while [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]] plucked Devastator away from his home timeline to serve in the [[Universe War]]. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/07/30}}

[[Sky-Byte (RID)|Sky-Byte]] claimed that [[beast mode]] Transformers such as himself were too emotionally delicate to suffer the indignity of combining. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime|Shark Sonnets, 2015/10/21}}

===Unicron Trilogy continuity family===
Across multiple continuities, the power-enhancing [[Mini-Con]]s possessed the ability to power up larger Autobots and Decepticons with extra weapons and abilities while physically attached to their bodies. This special bond is known as a "[[Powerlinx]]", and is not considered a "true" combination, although by the time of ''[[Transformers: Energon (franchise)|Energon]]'' this specific term would come to be used interchangeably with more familiar forms of combination.

====Cartoon continuity====
=====''Armada'' cartoon=====
[[File:Ruin-Star Saber Skyboom Shield.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]

In addition to their ability to Powerlinx, a number of Mini-Cons possessed the power to combine with each other: although [[Grindor (Armada)|Grindor]], [[High Wire (Armada)|High Wire]], and [[Sureshock (Armada)|Sureshock]] combined into a super robot named [[Perceptor (Armada)|Perceptor]], {{storylink|Comrade}} most other Mini-Cons became enhanced weapons or tools: the [[Air Defense Mini-Con Team (Armada)|Air Defense Team]] formed the supernatural [[Star Saber (Armada)|Star Saber]], the [[Race Mini-Con Team]] became the impenetrable [[Skyboom (Armada)|Skyboom]] shield, {{storylink|Overmatch}} and the [[Space Mini-Con Team]] could unite to form the devastatingly powerul [[Requiem Blaster (Armada)|Requiem Blaster]]. {{storylink|Awakening (Armada)|Awakening}}

During a battle with the Decepticons, the Autobots struggled against [[Megatron (Armada)/Cartoon continuity|Megatron]]'s new tactician [[Thrust (Armada)|Thrust]] and his 'henchman' [[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Tidal Wave]]. Right when it seemed hopeless, [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]] fell from the sky and combined with Optimus to form Jet Optimus. {{storylink|Awakening (Armada)|Awakening}} Later still, Optimus began combining with the hulking [[Overload (Armada)|Overload]], who formed a large pair of cannons on top of Super Optimus's shoulders. Overload's additional firepower, combined with the already impressive firepower of the Requiem Blaster, enabled Optimus to destroy [[Sideways (Armada)|Sideways]]. {{storylink|Origin}}

The Decepticons were not without their own combiner; [[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Tidal Wave]] was able to combine with Megatron to form additional armour and a back-mounted [[jet pack|rocket pack]]. In this form, Megatron was able to battle Jet Optimus to a standstill. {{storylink|Desperate}}

=====''Linkage'' comic=====
The non-flying members of the evil [[Speed Chaser Team]] could form the [[Magnawing]] aircraft to transport themselves around. {{storylink|Linkage Part 4}}

=====''Energon'' cartoon=====
[[File:TwoHeros optimus supermode.jpg|thumb|left|250px]]

Long ago, during a time when the Decepticons and Autobots were at peace, four ancient combiner robots were tasked with guarding the [[Super Energon Temple]] deep beneath Cybertron: [[Bruticus Maximus (Energon)|Bruticus Maximus]], [[Constructicon Maximus]], [[Superion Maximus]], and [[Dauntless Maximus|Superion's brother]]. The Autobots and Decepticons glared at one another in mutual acrimony until they became completely corroded and were unable to move. {{storylink|Ambition}}

Millennia later, following Unicron's defeat, the [[Terrorcon (Energon)|Terrorcon]]s arrived on [[Earth]] to acquire energon, and [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] granted [[Hot Shot (Armada)|Hot Shot]] the [[Spark of Combination]], a divine power imbued upon the Autobot leader by [[Primus]], so that Hot Shot and [[Inferno (Energon)|Inferno]] could Powerlinx with one another and fight off the invaders. {{storylink|Cybertron City (episode)|Cybertron City}} This new form of powerlinxing became a widespread ability among the Autobots, to the point where almost any Autobot could combine with any other to become more powerful. Spark of Combination didn't automatically make someone an expert at it, however—it took practice and both partners had to learn to synchronize their breathing. Several different varieties of combination emerged over the course of this new confict: similarly sized Autobots could Powerlinx together, with the top half becoming the dominant consciousness with an added "Powerlinx" title (e.g. "Powerlinx [[Ironhide (Energon)|Ironhide]]".) {{storylink|Megatron's Sword}} A few Autobots and some Decepticons combined with components of their alternate modes to form a larger "brute mode". {{storylink|Bulkhead (episode)|Bulkhead}}

[[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]] was able to Powerlinx with his [[Prime Force]] [[drone]]s, {{storylink|Cybertron City (episode)}} [[Wing Saber (Energon)|Wing Saber]] {{storylink|Jungle Planet (episode)}} and [[Omega Supreme (Energon)|Omega Supreme]] to form his Super Modes.While Optimus Prime would become the dominant consciousness in all of his Super Modes, Omega Supreme was the only one who could continue to communicate with him, presumably due to [[Omega Supreme (Energon)#Omega|Omega]]—his head-unit—storing inside his right shoulder. {{storylink|A Heroic Battle}} After their discovery, the three remaining guardians of the Super Energon Temple joined the battle; in particular, Superion Maximus fought to avenge his deceased brother, and while briefly incapaciated by the loss of his combiner limbs during his final battle against Bruticus, stole Constructicon's limbs and used them to finally kill Bruticus Maximus. {{storylink|Spark (episode)|Spark}}

=====''Cybertron'' cartoon=====
[[File:Cyb ep16 savage claw mode.jpg|thumb|right|250px]]

In addition to his preexisting ability to merge with Wing Saber into an airborne "Sonic Wing Mode", {{storylink|United}} Optimus would later display the ability to combine with [[Overhaul (Cybertron)|Leobreaker]] to form the "Savage Claw Mode". {{storylink|Savage}} His evil clone [[Nemesis Breaker]] could likewise form a "Dark Claw" mode for Megatron. {{storylink|Darkness (episode)|Darkness}}

====''Cybertron'' comic====
The [[Deep Space Mini-Con Team]] could combine into the [[Umbral Blaster]] {{storylink|Revelations Part 5}} while the [[Sky Terror Mini-Con Team]] could form the [[Chaos Saber]]. {{storylink|Andromeda - Axiom Nexus News Reporter|Andromeda - Axiom Nexus News, 2015/05/19}}

====Ask Vector Prime====
In [[Aurex 1104.30-DB Zeta]], [[Brian Jones|Dr. Jones]] attempted to reverse-engineer the Maximus combination technology and apply it to [[Mini-Con]]s, which resulted in the creation of the [[Micromaster]] combiners [[Superion (Universe)|Superion]], [[Defensor (Universe)|Defensor]], and [[Rail Racer (Universe)|Rail Racer]] . The [[Decepticon]]s, however, stole this technology and used it to create their own Micromaster combiner, [[Devastator (Universe Micromaster)|Devastator]]. During the [[Unicron Singularity]] crisis, these four Autobot and Decepticon combiners clashed in a conflict known as the [[Combiner Wars (event)|Combiner Wars]]. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/07/31}}

{{--}}

===''Timelines''===
[[File:Clubcombinercarving.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]

At the dawn of time, Nexus Prime was a member of the [[Thirteen]] and the first combiner. However, when [[The Fallen|Megatronus]] turned on his siblings, [[Vector Prime]], Alpha Trion, and [[Solus Prime]] made the decision to permanently reduce Nexus Prime into five components and conceal the location of Prima's [[Star Saber (Prima)|Star Saber]] sword. The Star Saber cut Nexus into five other robots: [[Skyfall (Cybertron)|Skyfall]], [[Landquake (Timelines)|Landquake]], [[Breakaway (Classics)|Breakaway]], [[Topspin (Classics)|Topspin]], and [[Heatwave (Timelines)|Heatwave]], who were subsequently scattered across the [[multiverse]] and lost to the ages. {{Storylink|Ask Vector Prime|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/05/18}} In time, however, the [[Caretaker]] supercomputer put the five components on the path to reunification, and upon recruiting the heroic Decepticon Heatwave in a [[Primax -408.24 Epsilon|mirror universe]] Nexus Prime successfully returned and used his powers to transform [[Megatron (SG)|that reality's Megatron]] into Galvatron before departing to recover the Star Saber. {{storylink|Reunification: Part 6}}

The [[GoBot]]s of [[Gobotron]] possessed their own version of combination technology: basing his designs of the transformable "power suits" of the heroic [[Guardian (GoBots)|Guardian]]s, [[Renegade]] leader [[Cy-Kill (GoBots)|Cy-Kill]] commandeered Earth vehicles and modified them into the mighty [[Puzzler]]. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Renegade Rhetoric (1), 2015/10/16}} While in [[Axiom Nexus]], he stole six [[spark]]s {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Renegade Rhetoric (1), 2015/10/15}} and, after recruiting a group of [[Predacon (Prime)|Predacon]] criminals from the [[Uniend|Uniend Cluster]] upgraded them with the the combination technology he'd once used for Puzzler to create [[Monsterous]]. {{storylink|Transformers: Renegade Rhetoric|Renegade Rhetoric, 2015/10/21}} Upon returning to his home reality, he used the stolen sparks to to recreate the Puzzler project with genuine living machines.{{storylink|Transformers: Renegade Rhetoric|Renegade Rhetoric}}

In a splinter reality created by [[Sideways (disambiguation)|Sideways]] and [[Gong (GoBots)|Gong]], Puzzler and Monsterous would menace the Autobots during a particularly strange version of the [[Unicron War]]. {{storylink|Echoes and Fragments}} Another iteration of Puzzler would join the [[Thirteen Great Demon Generals]] after [[Violengiguar|Bio Ranger Iga]] permanently fused his components together to ensure an unbroken existence. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/07/15}}

When asked who he'd combine with if he became a combiner, [[Vector Prime]] admitted that while he might merge with other members of the [[Thirteen]], he did not feel comfortable becoming a combiner. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/09/25}}

{{--}}

===''Animated''===
====''Animated'' cartoon====
[[File:WhereIsThySting-obligatorymisunderstanding.jpg|thumb|right|300px]]

{{Idw-tfa}}

''[[Jetfire (Animated)|Jetfire]] and his [[twin]] brother [[Jetstorm (Animated)|Jetstorm]] were chosen for an ambitious genetic experiment after an industrial accident nearly killed them. By grafting Decepticon coding acquired from [[Starscream (Animated)|Starscream]] during his time in custody onto their Autobot shells, the Autobots hoped to duplicate the Decepticons' vaunted flight abilities. When a simulated training exercise against a virtual simulation of Starscream went awry, the pair displayed an unconscious "gestalt powerlink" that allowed them to combine into [[Safeguard (Animated)|Safeguard]] and destroy the virtual Decepticon. {{storylink|First (and Second) in Flight}}''

After travelling to Earth, the pair formed Safeguard during the search for [[Wasp]] {{storylink|Where Is Thy Sting?}} and later used a combined jet mode to carry their leader [[Sentinel Prime (Animated)|Sentinel Prime]] to [[Dinobot Island (Animated)|Dinobot Island]]. {{storylink|Predacons Rising (Animated)|Predacons Rising}}

''Later, the ambitious [[Dirt Boss (Animated)|Dirt Boss]] recruited his former lackeys [[Mixmaster (Animated)|Mixmaster]] and [[Scrapper (Animated)|Scrapper]] to work on something he called "[[Devastator (Animated)|Devastator]]." {{storylink|Transformers Animated: The AllSpark Almanac II|The AllSpark Almanac II}}

====Sentinel Shouting====
In his younger days, Sentinel Minor appears to have been somewhat prejudiced against combiners. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Sentinel Shouting, 2015/10/07}}

{{--}}

===''Shattered Glass''===
[[File:ReunificationPart4-ComputronVsAbominus.jpg|thumb|left|300px]]

As the Great War between the heroic Decepticons and evil Autobots escalated, the introduction of combiner technology afforded [[Optimus Prime (SG)|Optimus Prime]] and his warriors a distinct tactical advantage. To fight back, the Decepticons initiated "Operation: Combination", a program designed to refit their own warriors with combination technology. Decepticons who underwent the refit underwent a rigorous battery of psychological tests to ensure their compatability with one another, as well as an automatic disengagement mechanism designed to protect the individual minds of their components should the combination matrix fail. The erudite [[Abominus (SG)|Abominus]], combined form of the [[Terrorcon (SG)|Terrorcon]]s, eventually emerged as the apex of combination technology, although the care involved in buffering the minds of his components left him with an extremely fragile combination matrix. {{storylink|Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 28|Abominus profile}}

Unlike the Decepticons, the Autobots showed no such care for the combination process and freely abused the technology to create unstable monsters. While [[Computron (SG)|Computron]], combined form of the scientifically-inclined [[Technobot (SG)|Technobot]]s, was once an evil genius, his components eventually grew addicted to the process to the point where they no longer separated. Cruel and egotistical, Computron suffered severe mental damage during an ill-advised attempt to imbue [[Grimlock (SG)|Grimlock]] with intelligence, which permanently corrupted his parallel processing capabilities and left him a mentally and emotionally stunted brute. Although the Technobots remained addicted to combining, Computron quickly grew to despise his individual components and continually, if ineffectually, plotted to rid himself of the "parasites" who comprised his body. {{storylink|Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 27|Computron profile}}

[[Superion (SG)|Superion]], a smaller combiner, displayed the ability to freely split and recombine his body at will, which he used to flummox a [[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|parallel-universe Grimlock]] when the two met in battle. {{storylink|Memory's Splinter}}

After downloading his consciousness into a backup body, [[Ratchet (SG)|Ratchet]] upgraded himself with combiner technology. While combined, he could plant viruses into a gestalt mainframe or even seize complete control of a combiner's motor functions, but his new body's tendencies to freeze and reboot could interfere with the combination processes. {{storylink|#Combiner Wars|Customization class SG Ratchet bio}}

===Live-action film series===
====Toy bios====
[[Knock Out (ROTF)|Knock Out]] hoped to undergo the "combination retrofit" process.<ref>Knock Out's toy bio.</ref> The [[Aerialbot (ROTF)|Aerialbots]] and the [[Combaticon (ROTF)|Combaticons]] could combine into [[Superion (ROTF)|Superion]] and [[Bruticus Maximus (ROTF)|Bruticus Maximus]], respectively. Both combined forms had limited intelligence: [[Superion (ROTF)|Superion]] was seemingly incapable of any thoughts beyond "destroy Decepticons" and "protect innocents", while [[Bruticus Maximus (ROTF)|Bruticus Maximus]], despite being both dumb and slow, could overwhelm almost any opponent his strength and nigh-impenetrable armor.<ref>Superion and Bruticus Maximus's toy bios.</ref>

====Movies====
[[File:Devastator-ROTFvsLeoSpitz.jpg|thumb|right|300px]]

The [[Guardian Knight]]s could combine into the mighty three-headed dragon known as [[Dragonstorm]], whereas [[Quintessa (TLK)|Quintessa]]'s [[Infernocon]]s could combine into the monstrous [[Infernocus]]. {{storylink|Transformers: The Last Knight (film)|The Last Knight}} Cybertronian [[twin]]s, like [[Skids (ROTF)|Skids]] and [[Mudflap (ROTF)|Mudflap]], could assume separate combined forms or merge into a more durable shared alternate mode. {{storylink|Transformers Comic issue 2.1}} Some animalistic Cybertronians, like the insectoid [[Microcon]]s could combine into a [[Reedman|razor-thin robot form]] designed for infiltration purposes. {{storylink|Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (film)|Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen}}

Experimental combiner technology was developed by the Decepticons for combat advantage and then used on the [[Constructicon (ROTF)|Constructicon]]s who were able to form [[Devastator (ROTF)|Devastator]]. Comfort was rather decidedly not on the top of the list of priorities and, as a result, the process was brutally painful to the Transformers involved, which also made the combiners fuse in a very aggressive and painful manner. The mental and physical torture involved left Devastator only interested in causing destruction.<ref>Devastator's [http://www.hasbro.com/transformers/en_US/discover/Battle-Bios.cfm Battle Bio] at Hasbro.com</ref> Combiners were not limited to one combination scheme, and their final forms could vary.<ref>[http://unicron-events-interviews.blogspot.com/2009/10/hasbro-q-10212009.html Hasbro's answer to Unicron.com] as part of the [[Hasbro Q&A/October 2009#Unicron.com|October 2009 Q&A]].</ref>

During the final battle in [[Egypt]], [[Jetfire (Movie)|Jetfire]] sacrificed himself so that the recently-revived Optimus Prime could use his parts. The combination gave Optimus a powered up, flight-capable form that he used to battle [[The Fallen]] and triumph. {{storylink|Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (film)|Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen}}

====''Unite for the Universe''====
[[File:Project Unite.jpg|thumb|left|250px]]

In the wake of the battle in Egypt, [[NEST]] initiated [[Project Unite|Project: Unite]] so that Optimus Prime could maintain this combined state. {{storylink|Unite for the Universe issue 1|The Secret of Project: Unite}} Seeking to copy the project for his own ends, [[Starscream (Movie)|Starscream]] hired [[Skystalker (ROTF)|Skystalker]] and [[Ravage (ROTF)|Ravage]] to aid him, and together they stole information on Project: Unite. {{storylink|Unite for the Universe issue 1|Ambition Instigated}} Using the knowledge he'd gleaned, Starscream applied the upgrade to himself and grafted parts of [[Sideways (ROTF)|Sideways]] and [[Bonecrusher (Movie)|Bonecrusher]] onto his body. With his newfound power, he made short work of Bludgeon before declaring his intention to conquer the world and defeat Megatron. {{storylink|Unite for the Universe issue 2|Bludgeon's Revenge}} Unfortunately for him, Starscream had failed to acquire the neural interface protocols required for Project: Unite, causing his mind to deteriorate, and he began to rashly and mindlessly attack things around him. Both the Autobots and Megatron realized they had to stop the crazed Decepticon before he did too much damage. {{storylink|Unite for the Universe issue 2|On the Road to Destruction}}

Megatron attacked the powered-up Starscream himself, intending to take him apart and reverse-engineer the secrets to Project: Unite from his body. Optimus Prime couldn't allow this to happen, and had [[Ratchet (Movie)|Ratchet]] bring in a new weapon to burn out the Unite technology in Starscream's body, defeating him and destroying his upgrades. Once Megatron had fled, Optimus lamented that the danger of their new weapons research falling into the Decepticons' hands was too great, seemingly signaling the end of Project: Unite. {{storylink|The Strongest Weapon}}

{{--}}

===''Power Core Combiners''===
The art of [[Power Core Combination]] was lost during the early days of the war on Cybertron. The Decepticons made an attempt to resurrect the process, but their crude "Gestalt Process" was a horrific procedure that usually cost the participants their sanity; the [[Autobot]]s made more careful attempts, but even these still inflicted mental damage. As a result, "[[Proto-Combiner]]s" with the potential to become a combiner were doomed to either live with a permanent sense of incompleteness or risk their sanity by submitting to these ill-concieved experiments.

All of this changed, however, when the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]]'s database was recovered by the Autobots, and (with some [[human]] assistance) the Power Core process was at last rediscovered. It facilitated perfect symbiosis between a [[Commander (PCC)|Commander]] and their Mini-Con, not only enhancing the attributes of both, but also creating a mysterious bond of shared perception. With training, a Commander might graduate to having a set of drones to control. A single Commander could upload his own personality engrams into the drones and effectively be in multiple places at once. {{storylink|Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 32|The Return of Power Core Combination!}} The Decepticons were able to steal the technology for their own warriors,<ref>Toy packaging blurb [https://www.seibertron.com/transformers-toys/view/power-core-combiners/bombshock-with-combaticons/2191/1/16/ (scan at Seibertron.com)]</ref> doling out the upgrades as a reward for displays of ruthlessness<ref>[[Bombshock (PCC)|Bombshock]]'s toy bio [http://tftechspecs.com/pics5/15531.jpg (scan at TFTechSpecs.com)]</ref> or for loyalty.<ref>[[Sledge (PCC)|Sledge]]'s toy bio [http://tftechspecs.com/pics5/15524.jpg (scan at TFTechSpecs.com)]</ref> Because the technology was rediscovered only recently, Gestaltics researchers have yet to reach the limits of their understanding and exploitation of it. {{storylink|Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 32|The Return of Power Core Combination!}}

===Aligned continuity family===
====''The Covenant of Primus''====
[[File:TheCovenantOfPrimus-mutacons.jpg|thumb|right|250px]]

At the dawn of time, [[Nexus Prime]] was the first combiner, a 'bot capable of splitting and reforming at will. Following the death of [[Solus Prime]] and the disastrous [[War of the Primes]] that drove the original [[Thirteen]] apart, Nexus permanently divided himself into five 'bots and scattered himself across the stars.

Following the [[Cosmic Rust (disease)|Rust Plague]] and the collapse of the Cybertronian empire, a fleet of refugees fleeing [[Neutronia]] discovered [[Amalgamous Prime]]'s lost [[transformation cog]]. Its supernatural power mutated them into the [[Mutacon]]s, [[shifter]]s with the power of infinite transformation and combination. Seeking a way to cure their condition before they finally lost their individuality and combined into a single amorphous being, they traversed the galaxy in a fleet of living starships comprised of their own bodies. {{storylink|Transformers: The Covenant of Primus|The Covenant of Primus}}

====Aligned novels====
The ancient art of combination was as old as Cybertron itself, although the fiercely independent [[Megatron (WFC)|Megatron]] despised the notion of surrendering his hard-won individuality to some greater whole. During his time at [[Crystal City]] [[Shockwave (WFC)|Shockwave]] created several prototype combiners, and merged the five [[Combaticon (WFC)|Combaticon]]s into the savage and uncontrollable [[Bruticus (WFC)|Bruticus Maximus]], but their combined form proved so dangerous that all five would be placed in protective [[stasis lock|stasis]] and sealed away. Undeterred, Shockwave continued his experiments; while in the gladiatorial pits of [[Kaon (polity)|Kaon]] just before the [[Great War (Prime)|Great War]], he experimented on a trio of [[Insecticon (WFC)|Insecticon]]s and turned them into combiners who could merge into both robot and vehicle forms.

A number of combiners attended the fateful meeting of the [[Autobot High Council|High Council]] that saw Orion Pax promoted to the rank of [[Prime (rank)|Prime]]; when war broke out in earnest, the [[Constructicon (WFC)|Constructicon]]s joined the Decepticons, by which point Shockwave had perfected his combinatorial process and used it to turn at least seven of their number into the ferocious [[Devastator (WFC)|Devastator]], and the Decepticons later reactivated the Combaticons after discovering them beneath the ruins of Crystal City.

To fight back, the Autobots stole and successfully reverse-engineered Shockwave's combination process to create combiners of their own. The first, [[Defensor (WFC)|Defensor]], successfully blunted Devastator's rampage when the two clashed in the [[Tagan Heights]] but wound up destroying the secret lab where Autobot scientists had created him. {{storylink|Transformers: Exodus|Exodus}}

The five [[Aerialbot (WFC)|Aerialbots]] aboard the ''[[Ark (WFC)|Ark]]'' were combiners; their gestalt form of [[Superion (Prime)|Superion]] would prove instrumental in rescuing both Autobots and Decepticons from the Quintesson-controlled [[Aquatron]]. {{storylink|Transformers: Retribution|Retribution}}

====''Timelines''====
[[Fisitron (Timelines)|Fisitron]] was discovered in a routine physical examination to have a rare "combination spark", which theoretically gave him the ability to combine with other machines. {{storylink|Fisitron (Timelines)#Toys|TFSS Fisitron profile card}}

====''Portal''====
{{stub}}

====2015 ''Robots in Disguise'' cartoon====
[[File:TRID E 57 Heatmark.jpg|thumb|left|300px]]

A number of combiner teams possessed a unique form of combination known as "Crash Combination": by crashing into one another at high speed, two 'bots could temporarily fuse into one. Four out of the five [[Stunticon (Prime)|Stunticon]]s possessed this ability; in addition to combining with [[Motormaster (WFC)|their leader]] to form [[Menasor (RID)|Menasor]], they could unite to form [[Dragbreak]] {{storylink|Bee Cool}} and [[Heatmark]]. {{storylink|The Golden Knight}} None of these combinations utilized a mental merge: while the two smaller combiners simply drew upon the personalities of whoever formed the combiner torso,

The Decepticon criminal [[Chop Shop (RID)|Chop Shop]] was formed from five identical robots, although it's unclear whether "Chop Shop" is an emergent personality made up from the interaction of his five components, or if he is one mind spread across multiple bodies: notably, he could function without all of his components intact, and could appropriate [[Mini-Con]]s like [[Fixit (RID)|Fixit]] as replacements. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye (RID)|More than Meets the Eye}}

[[File:TRID SF Ultra Bee vs Galvatronus.jpg|thumb|right|300px]]

While fighting [[Heatseeker]] above a nuclear waste dump, an explosion triggered a barrage of radiation that forcibly merged all six members of the [[Bee Team (RID)|Bee Team]] into [[Ultra Bee]], but none of them realized at the time. {{storylink|King of the Hill (Part 2)}} The team experienced this phenomenon again during their battle with [[Dragstrip (WFC)|Dragstrip]] at a swamp. They didn't understand how to control it, and being combined had the strange effect of splitting [[Sideswipe (RID)|Sideswipe]] into two individuals. {{storylink|The Great Divide}} Eventually, Fixit deduced that this mutation had been triggered by radiation, but attempts to recreate the accident initially proved fruitless: one attempt left [[Grimlock (RID 2015)|Grimlock]] and [[Drift (RID)|Drift]] stuck together, {{storylink|Get a Clue}} while later experiments led to the creation of temporary combined forms like [[Bumblearm]] {{storylink|The Fastest Bot Alive!}} and [[Sidelock]]. {{storylink|Out of the Shadows}} On one occasion, a bungled attempt to force the combination using mechanical assistance left the team with their minds in the wrong bodies. {{storylink|Disordered Personalities}}

Eventually, however, the team mastered their combination and used their new form to take on Menasor and win on two separate occasions. {{storylink|Combine and Conquer}} {{storylink|Moon Breaker}} To combat [[Soundwave (WFC)|Soundwave]], the [[Bee Team (RID)|Bee Team]] attempted to form Ultra Bee but found themselves unable to complete the combination without [[Drift (RID)|Drift]]. {{storylink|Collateral Damage}}

[[Cyclonus (WFC)|Cyclonus]] and his troops were able to combine into [[Galvatronus (RID)|Galvatronus]]. They attempted to use their combined form to defeat the Bee Team only to be met with Ultra Bee. Nonetheless, the Decepticon combiner proved stronger than his Autobot counterpart until [[Cyberwarp]]'s hesitation allowed Ultra Bee to triumph. {{storylink|Freedom Fighters}}

{{--}}

===''Cloud''===
[[File:Cloud Bruticus.jpg|thumb|left|200px]]

The combiner [[Bruticus (Cloud)|Bruticus]] was an invention of the mad logician [[Shockwave (Cloud)|Shockwave]], who incorporated the ability to combine into the (perhaps unwilling) [[Combaticon (Cloud)|Combaticons]], a team of renegades in the [[Underground (Cloud)|Underground]]. The giant was utilized as part of Shockwave's many contingencies to bring about the return of [[Megatron (Cloud)|Megatron]] for the ultimate conquest of the [[Multiverse|Spacetime World]]. {{storylink|Eagerness}}
{{--}}

===''TransTech''===
While in [[Axiom Nexus]], offworlder combiners required a license to operate. {{storylink|Transformers: Renegade Rhetoric|Renegade Rhetoric, 2015/10/21}}

[[Stakeout (PCC)|Stakeout]] and his Protectobot drones took part in ''[[Cybertron's Got Talent]]'' and dazzled audiences with their Power Core Combination. {{storylink|Axiom Nexus News Editor|Axiom Nexus News Editor, 2015/05/14}} After winning the Sub-Metro Amateur League [[Lobbing]] championship, the Mighty Mechanics considered moving up to the Combiner Leagues, although they'd have to be upgraded with combination technology to compete. {{storylink|Andromeda - Axiom Nexus News Reporter|Andromeda - Axiom Nexus News, 2015/05/28}}

===''Cyberverse'' cartoon===
[[File:TheImmobilizers-Volcanicus.jpg|thumb|right|300px]]

After liberating the [[Enigma of Combination]] from the tomb of [[Nexus Prime]], [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] and the [[Dinobot (Cyberverse)|Dinobot]]s accidentally activated the artifact, which merged them together into [[Volcanicus (Cyberverse)|Volcanicus]]. The newly-formed combiner spent a significant amount of time and effort learning to coordinate their actions in both their individual and combined forms, but after a lengthy training period the Dinobots took on [[Trypticon (Cyberverse)|Trypticon]]'s crew of [[Mercenary|Mercenaries]] and emerged triumphant. {{storylink|The Immobilizers}}

{{--}}

==Games==
===''Transformers: Fall of Cybertron''===
Bruticus was formed by the Combaticons when they were making a last ditch effort to salvage a mission to capture a large Autobot energon transport. After the team disabled the anti-air guns, the got their dropship close enough for all five of them to depart onto the ship and combine. Bruticus's raw strength allowed him to easily eliminate the transport's crew, but the damage he did to the ship caused it to crash land. Bruticus later formed during [[Megatron (WFC)|Megatron]]'s mission to recapture [[Trypticon (WFC)|Trypticon]], and later joined the fight during the Decepticon attack on the [[Ark (WFC)|Ark]] before [[Jazz (WFC)|Jazz]] and [[Jetfire (WFC)|Jetfire]] knocked him off. {{storylink|Transformers: Fall of Cybertron|Fall of Cybertron}}

{{-}}

===''Transformers: Devastation''===
[[File:Devastation-OptimusMaximus.jpg|thumb|right|250px]]

After the incident with the [[Ferrotaxis]], [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] mused to [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] about ending the war once and for all. They then both looked at a set of Combiner schematics on a computer screen, depicting Optimus Maximus. {{storylink|Transformers: Devastation}}

{{-}}

===''Transformers: Battle Tactics''===
A number of combiners participated in battles against both Autobots and Decepticons, but could only be recruited if all of their component members were at max level. {{storylink|Transformers: Battle Tactics}}

===''Transformers: Earth Wars''===
{{stub}}

==Combiner list==
{{note|Due to the many uses of redecoes as new characters and convenience for reading, each mold is listed on its own line, with all different-character decoes/retools on the same line.}}
{{See also|Super Mode}}
{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Combiners with two members'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Mega-Dinobot]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Decibel]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Legout]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Slamdance (G1)]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Squawkbox]]}}
{{bp-a1|[[Cog (G1)]] / [[Cog (Masterforce)]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Dreadwing (G1)]] / [[Darkwings]]}}
{{Bp-d2|[[Stormtrooper (Cybertronian)|Stormtrooper]]s {{storylink|Swarm (issue)|Swarm}}}}
*[[Multiforce]] members
{{Bp-a1|[[Wingwaver]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Dashtacker]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Machtackle]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Dreadwing (G2)]] and [[Smokescreen (G2)]]'s combined form / [[Megatron (G1)]] and [[Starscream (G1)]]'s combined form / [[Formation Scream]] / [[Stealth Bomber]] / [[Dreadwing (RID)]] / [[Gigant Sniper]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Sky Powered]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Land Powered]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Attack Powered]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Wing Powered]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Drill Powered]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Powerlinx#Energon|Silver and Gold Powerlinx users]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Safeguard (Animated)]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Skids (ROTF)|Skids]] and [[Mudflap (ROTF)|Mudflap]] (only in ice cream truck mode)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Primestrong]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Beeside]]}}
{{Bp-a1|"[[Sidelock]]" {{storylink|Out of the Shadows}}}}
{{Bp-a1|"[[Bumblearm]]" {{storylink|The Fastest Bot Alive!}}}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Skyhammer (RID)|Skyhammer]] / [[Shocknado]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Dragbreak]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Heatmark]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Primelock]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Saberclaw]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Dragonstorm#Premier Edition|Dragonstorm]] (only in toy form)}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Battletrap (G1)#Generations|Battletrap]] (only in toy form)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Bumblegrim]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Bumbleswoop]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Slugtron]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Wheelgrim]]}}
</ul>
|[[File:G1toy-Slamdance.jpg|thumb|200px|Slamdance]]
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Combiners formed by main bodies with power-up partners'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Godbomber|God]] [[Ginrai (robot)|Ginrai]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Victory Leo|Victory]] [[Star Saber (G1)|Saber]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Omega Prime]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime Super Modes#Unicron Trilogy|Jet Optimus]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Burning]] [[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Tidal Wave]] and [[Megatron (Armada)|Galvatron]]'s combined form}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime Super Modes#Unicron Trilogy|Optimus Prime Megaweapon]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime Super Modes#Unicron Trilogy|Optimus Prime Fight Mode or Optimus Prime Flight Mode]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime Super Modes#Unicron Trilogy|Optimus Supreme]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime Super Modes#Unicron Trilogy|Optimus Prime Savage Claw Mode]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime Super Modes#Unicron Trilogy|Optimus Prime Sonic Wing Mode]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Megatron (Armada)|Megatron]] [[Nemesis Breaker|Dark Claw Mode]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Prime Super Modes#Live-action film series|Power Up Optimus Prime]] (only in toy form)}}
*[[Megatron (RID)#Legends/Unite Warriors|Devil God]] [[Optimus Prime (RID)#Legends/Unite Warriors|Fire Convoy]] {{storylink|Transformers Legends Final Chapter "Epiloge"}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Purple Wicked Convoy]] [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity#Generations Selects Special Comic (1)|Omega Hand Mode]] {{storylink|Generations Selects Special Comic Finale Part 1}}}}
</ul>
|[[File:Armada JetOptimusMegaweapon toy.jpg|thumb|200px|Jet Optimus/Optimus Prime Megaweapon]]
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Combiners with three or more members (non-Scramble City-type)'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Devastator (G1)]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Devastator (ROTF)]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Predaking (G1)|Predaking]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Raiden]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Monstructor (G1)|Monstructor]] / [[Dinoking]]}}
</ul>
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Road Caesar]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Liokaiser]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Big Rescue Force]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Landcross (G1)|Landcross]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Big Powered]]}}
{{Bp-m1|[[Magnaboss (BW)]] / [[Magnaboss (BWII)]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Dreadwing (RID)|MegaWing]] [[Megatron (Armada)|Galvatron]]}}
</ul>
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Tidal Wave (Armada)|Dark]] [[Dreadwing (RID)|MegaWing]] [[Megatron (Armada)|Galvatron]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Piranacon (Prime)]]}}
*[[Prime Processing Unit]] {{storylink|Collect and Save}}
{{Bp-p1|[[Tripredacus]] / [[Tripledacus]]}}
*[[Tri-Rex]]
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Rail Racer (RID)]] / [[Dominus Trannis]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Landfill (RID)]] / [[Devastator (Universe Ultra)]]}}
</ul>
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Minibot combiner]] {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 8}}}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Beast (G1)|Beast]] {{storylink|The Beast Within}}}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Insectrain]] {{storylink|Hearts of Steel issue 2}}}}
*[[Cobratron]]
{{Bp-sa|[[Computron (SG)]]}}
{{Bp-sd|[[Abominus (SG)]]}}
</ul>
|
|width="20%" valign="top" rowspan=2|[[File:Raiden toy.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Raiden]][[File:TF-Studio-Series-Devastator.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Devastator]]
|-
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Reedman]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Deceptigod]]}}
{{Bp-d1p2|[[Abominus (Prime)]] / [[Goradora]] / [[Infernocus]] (only in toy form)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Mighty Robot]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Mighty Vehicle]]}}
*[[Puzzler]]
</ul>
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-p2|[[Monsterous]]}}
{{bp-a1|[[Toxitron (Zone)|Toxitron]]}}
{{bp-d1|[[Overmegasixwave]] {{storylink|The Waiting Game}}}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Grimstone (Kre-O)|Grimstone]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Lazerbolt]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Obsidian (Kre-O)|Obsidian]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Volcanicon]]}}
</ul>
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Gaiacross]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Gaia Scramble]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Starscream Combiner#Deviations|Megascream's combined form]] {{storylink|Transformers: Deviations}}}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Galvatronus (CW)]] {{storylink|All Hail Optimus Part 4: It's Beginning To And Back Again|It's Beginning To And Back Again}}}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Starscream Combiner#Prime Wars Trilogy cartoons|Ultimate Starscream]] {{storylink|A War of Giants}}}}
*The [[Functionist Council]] {{storylink|Dissolution Part 4: Bad Moon Rising|Bad Moon Rising}}
</ul>
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Ultra Bee]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Menasor (RID)]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Galvatronus (RID)]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Dragonstorm]] {{storylink|Transformers: The Last Knight (film)|The Last Knight}}}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Infernocus]] {{storylink|Transformers: The Last Knight (film)|The Last Knight}}}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Victorion|Ultimate Victorion]] {{storylink|Desperate Actions}}}}
{{Bp-m1p1|[[Fossilizer Combiner]]}}
</ul>
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Triple Combination combiners'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Gekisoumaru|DaiGekisou]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Kenzan|DaiKenzan]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Gekisoumaru|GoGekisou]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Ganoh|GoGanoh]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Hishoumaru|GoHishou]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Jinbu|GoJinbu]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Kenzan|GoKenzan]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Sensuimaru|GoSensui]]}}
</ul>
|[[File:TFGoSensuimaru.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|Sensuimaru]]
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Scramble City-type combiners'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Bruticus (G1)]] / [[Battle Gaia]] / [[Ruination (RID)]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Defensor (G1)]] / [[Guard City]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Menasor (G1)]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Superion (G1)]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Abominus (G1)]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Computron (G1)]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Piranacon (G1)]]<ref name="seacon">With extra "limb" robot used as weapon.</ref> / [[King Poseidon]]<ref name="seacon" /> / [[God Neptune]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Bruticus (WFC)]] / [[Ruination (FOC)]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Optimus Maximus (G1)|Optimus Maximus]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Victorion]] / [[Megatronia]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Sky Reign]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Grand Galvatron]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Thunder Mayhem]]}}
{{Bp-p1|[[Predacus]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Wreckage (G1)|Wreckage]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Volcanicus (POTP)|Volcanicus]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Orthia]]}}
|
[[File:Superion toy.jpg|thumb|upright=0.8|Superion]]
</ul>
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Official mix-n-match Scramble City-type combiners'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Abomenaticus]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Comperian]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Autobot Super Scramble]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Decepticon Super Scramble]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Scramble 7]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Ultra Prime]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Galvatronus (CW)]] (only in toy form)}}
|
|width="60%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Betatron (CW)|Betatron]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Grand Scourge|Scourge Grand Prime]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Modulus]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Starscream Combiner]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Elita-Infin1te]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Inferno Combiner]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[White Gallant Convoy|White Convoy Grand Prime]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Volcaticon]]}}
|
[[File:Abomenaticus toy.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Abomenaticus]]
</ul>
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Micromaster-type combiners'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Barrage (Micromaster)|Barrage]] and [[Heave]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Blackout (G1)|Blackout]] and [[Spaceshot]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Blast Master]] and [[Phaser (G1)|Phaser]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Direct-Hit]] and [[Power Punch]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Excavator (G1)|Excavator]] and [[Stonecruncher (G1)|Stonecruncher]] / [[Retro]] and [[Surge (G1)|Surge]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Fireshot]] and [[Vanquish]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Full-Barrel]] and [[Overflow]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Grit]] and [[Knockout (G1)|Knockout]] / [[Gusher]] and [[Pipeline]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Half-Track (G1)|Half-Track]] and [[Meltdown (G1)|Meltdown]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Hammer (G1)|Hammer]] and [[Sledge (G1)|Sledge]] / [[Cement-Head]] and [[Terror-Tread]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Missile Master]] and [[Moonrock]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Oiler]] and [[Slide]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Power Run]] and [[Strikedown]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Roadburner]] and [[Wheel Blaze]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-a1|[[Sixliner]] / [[Sixtrain]]<ref>Sixtrain was redecoed and retooled from Sixliner.</ref> / [[Rail Racer (Universe)]]<ref>Universe Rail Racer uses the same deco as Takara's 2003 redecoed "reissue" of Sixtrain.</ref>}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Sixbuilder]] / [[Decepticon Sixbuilder]] / [[Devastator (Universe Micromaster)]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Sixturbo]] / [[Defensor (Universe)]]}}
{{Bp-a1d1|[[Sixwing|Sixwing / Berserker Sixwing / Destron Sixwing]] / [[Superion (Universe)]]}}
|
[[File:OC-toy Sixbuilder.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Sixbuilder]]
</ul>
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Mini-Con combiners'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-mc|[[Perceptor (Armada)#Armada 3|Perceptor (Armada)]] / [[Bumble]]}}
{{Bp-mc|[[Perceptor (Armada)#Energon 3|Perceptor (Energon)]] / [[Heavy Metal (Energon)|Heavy Metal]] / [[Windcharger (Energon)|Windcharger]] / [[Perceptor (Armada)#Cybertron|Perceptor (Cybertron)]] / [[Bumble]]}}
{{Bp-mc|[[Mirror]] / [[Nightcreeper]]}}
{{Bp-mc|[[Requiem Blaster (Armada)|Requiem Blaster]] / [[Umbral Blaster]] / [[Astro Blaster (Armada)]] / [[Transwarp Blaster]]}}
|
|width="20%" valign="top"| 
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-mc|[[Skyboom (Armada)|Skyboom]] / [[Magnawing]] / [[Cosmotector (Armada)|Cosmotector]]}}
{{Bp-mc|[[Star Saber (Armada)|Star Saber]] / [[Vorpal Saber]] / [[Energon Saber]] / [[Cryo Saber]] / [[Chaos Saber]] / [[Pyro Saber]]}}
{{Bp-mc|[[Centuritron]]}}
{{Bp-mc|[[Chop Shop (RID)|Chop Shop]]}}
</ul>
|[[File:EN-toy MB2 Frenzy.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Heavy Metal]]
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''Maximus-type [[Powerlinx]] combiners'''
<ul class="iconlist">
{{Bp-d1|[[Bruticus Maximus (Energon)]] / [[Bruticus (G1)]] (Universe) / [[Bruticus Maximus (ROTF)]]}}
{{Bp-d1|[[Constructicon Maximus]] / [[Devastator (G1)]] (Classics)}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Superion Maximus]] / [[Dauntless Maximus]] / [[Superion (G1)]] (Universe) / [[Superion (ROTF)]]}}
{{Bp-a1|[[Nexus Prime]]}}
</ul>
|[[File:TF-Super-Link-EX-01-Buildron.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Constructicon Maximus]]
|}

{| style="margin-left:1em;" width="100%"
|width="20%" valign="top"|'''"Omnicombinational" [[Stentarian]] combiners'''
<ul class="iconlist">
*[[16444/9]]
{{Bp-a1|[[Paddox]]}}
{{Bp-mc|[[Centuritron]]}}
</ul>
|[[File:Generationstoy-Centuritron.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Centuritron]]
|}

==Notes==
*'''Gestalt''', a German word which literally means 'form' or 'shape', in this context refers to the psychological concept, namely 'something which is more or greater than the sum of its parts', e.g. a table being more than the timber it's made out of. The origin of "gestalt" as a fan-term is unknown; the earliest documented use is in 1998, when it was already in common parlance.<ref>[https://groups.google.com/group/alt.toys.transformers/msg/af8234bb79475e5f?dmode=source&output=gplain&noredirect Earliest known alt.toys.transformers post using "gestalt"]</ref> Intriguingly, however, the {{w|Isaac Asimov's Robots in Time|''Robots in Time'' series of novels}} published in 1993-94 prominently feature a "gestalt robot" who could split into six smaller autonomous robots, each with a different personality. If this actually inspired some ''Transformers'' fan searching for a good word to use, there is no evidence of it, but the publishing timeframe is conspicuously close to the opaque early days of the online fandom.
*[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers (toyline)#1986 (Scramble City and Transformers 2010)|Scramble City]]-type combiners were initially designed to be a sub-line of ''[[Diaclone]]'' called ''Jizai Gattai'' (自在合体, "Free Combination"). This goes along with their ability to interact with and attach to [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] and [[Metrotitan (G1)|Metrotitan]], the designs of which were also originally intended for the ''Diaclone'' line. Due to the fact any robot can form either an arm or a leg, the franchise as a whole very rarely enforces a "standard" combination setup to a particular Scramble City combiner.
* Fiction has almost uniformly depicted combiners as being much larger than their individual components would suggest; combiners are almost uniformly depicted as, far bigger than the sum of their components would suggest. In perhaps the most egregious example, Dreamwave's comics present combiners as kaiju-sized monsters who loom over skyscrapers; after engaging and defeating Superion, he holds one of the latter's component members in his hand, his [[robot mode]] proportionally no larger than a doll. A few attempts, such as IDW's later ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' comic, have chalked this discrepancy down to judiciously-applied [[Size changing|mass displacement]] technology.

===Unused concepts===
[[File:Generations Street Combiner.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb|He transforms into a traffic jam.]]
Combiners were a very popular idea during the "Generation 1" toyline and as such there are loads of scrapped combiner designs that never got past the drawing board. Among them were:
*A Scramble City-style dinosaur combiner. The body is a ''T. rex'', while the limbs are a pterodactyl (right arm), ''Ankylosaurus'' (left leg), ''Dimetrodon'' (left arm), and ''Styracosaurus'' (right leg)<ref>[[Transformers Generations (guidebook)|''Transformers Generations'']], p22</ref>
*A decidedly goofy organic insect combiner composed of a stag beetle (right leg), another beetle (left leg), grasshopper (left arm), fly (right arm), and a cockroach body.<ref name="p99">[[Transformers Generations (guidebook)|''Transformers Generations'']], p99</ref>
*A cybernetic beast combiner that did not form a robot, but rather a large cybernetic monster. It is formed from a cyber bat, mole, stag beetle, and a couple of fish things.<ref name="p99" />
*A fifteen (!) vehicle Micromaster combiner where the only attached parts not contained by the component robots were the large robot fists. This combiner consists of three uniformly colored teams (in a similar fashion to the vehicular Voltron of the same time period):
**Air team (blue) — two jets, two helicopters, a space shuttle.
**Construction team (green) — a hauler, a bulldozer, a steam shovel, a tank (don't ask), a missile carrier (don't ask).
**Street team (red) — two cars, a motorcycle, a formula racer, a jeep.<ref name="p108">[[Transformers Generations (guidebook)|''Transformers Generations'']], p108</ref>
*A simpler dinosaur combiner composed of a pterodactyl, a not-really-a-''Stegosaurus'', and a ''T. rex'' with a very large head. The three combine into a dinosaur thing similar to [[Magmatron]]'s combined dino mode. It shares many visual characteristics with Tomy's relatively simple robot designs.<ref name="p108" />
[[File:ClassicVehicombiner.jpg|upright=0.85|thumb|Either the smallest steamboat ever, or the largest car in existence.]]
*A five vehicle combiner (evidently not Scramble City-style in nature) composed of a steam engine (right arm), steam boat (torso), car (right leg), truck (left leg), and plane (left arm).
*A base consisting mostly of ramps and a hollow tower in the center that combined with 14 non-transforming cars and vans. Two vehicles make up each limb, with three crammed in the chest, two for feet, and one that slides into the tower's gun platform to form the head. The ramps would then act as an exoskeleton to contain all of the components.<ref name="p79">[[Transformers Generations 2009#Volume 2|''Transformers Generations 2009'' Vol. 2]], p79</ref>
*A robot formed from a truck cab and four cars with no robot modes that each have flip out weapon arrays. This may qualify more as a conventional "super robot" than a standard combiner, but we may never know.<ref name="p80">[[Transformers Generations 2009#Volume 2|''Transformers Generations 2009'' Vol. 2]], p80</ref>
*A "Duocon" (or rather, "Triocon", in this case) style robot formed by three cars. One car splits in half to form the arms, another splits for the legs, and a third folds in half to reveal the robot head and connect it all together.<ref name="p80"/>
*A Concorde jet that split into two robots, where the front portion's robot can pop out three wheels and a spare cockpit to give it a land mode. Presumably the larger rear robot could do the same.<ref name="p81">[[Transformers Generations 2009#Volume 2|''Transformers Generations 2009'' Vol. 2]], p81</ref>
*Two military convoy "trains", one good, one evil, of six vehicles each hooked together that combine along the lines of Devastator but with loads more guns. The robot core is formed by a tractor trailer that leads either convoy, the good one being long nosed, the evil one being flat, each with trailers that open up into small cannon platforms usable by the five smaller robots. Said trailers also become their respective combined form's handgun. The other five members each have a specific large weapon such as a missile rack or chaingun that they can also use in robot mode.<ref name="p83">[[Transformers Generations 2009#Volume 2|''Transformers Generations 2009'' Vol. 2]], p83</ref>

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Gattai''' (合体, "Combination"), '''Gattai Senshi''' (合体戦士, "Combined Warrior"), '''Gattai Heishi''' (合体兵士, "Combined Soldier")
*''Mandarin:'' '''Hétǐjīngāng''' (合體金剛, "Combination Vajra")

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

[[Category:Combiners| ]]
[[Category:Gimmicks]]
[[Category:Technology]]

Chase (G1)

2021-08-17T17:37:44Z

YoungDoctor: /* Notes */

{{factions|autobot|autobotg2}}
{{disambigm|Chase (disambiguation)|Roadburner}}
:''Chase is an [[Autobot]] [[Throttlebot]] from the [[Generation 1 continuity family|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''
[[File:Chase g1 boxart.jpg|upright=1.0|thumb|Yes, but do his best stories feature [[wikia:left4dead:Ellis/Quotes#Stories|a guy named Keith?]]]]
As a warrior, '''Chase'''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s (aka '''Roadburn''') only outstanding asset is his staunch courage, but it's his attitude that earns him his many friends in the [[Autobot]] ranks. Yes, he's a motormouthed braggart and rather full of himself, but his storytelling skills are so fantastic that few mind when he monopolizes the conversation. Combine that ability with the enthusiastic, superficial friendliness and charisma of a talented politician, and it's no wonder Chase is well liked, despite his flaws.

Many of Chase's missions are rather routine; radar is his specialty. He can detect objects as small as [[Toaster]] on the horizon, and see a tennis ball two miles away—three of them, in fact, at the same time, in three different directions. He seldom needs to engage the enemy closely, but even the least dangerous "milk run" comes alive with purpose and excitement when Chase is telling its story.

Impulsive and quick-thinking, Chase's 240 mph top speed often places him far ahead of his comrades on his scouting missions, and frequently he's the first to roar down a promising byway, heedless of possible ambush or hazards. Sometimes this leads him into trouble. Most often this trouble is mechanical; Chase's body, especially his drivetrain, just isn't engineered to keep up with his mind.

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics====
{{note|Throughout the Marvel comic, Chase has [[Searchlight (G1)|Searchlight]]'s white color scheme. See [[#Notes|Notes]] for more.}}
[[File:TheCure Searchlight.JPG|left|thumb|upright=1.1|"This one time, my buddy Keith, on a DARE, got a tattoo: "I'm a moron" right across his forehead, man. 'Course, he made two hundred bucks off that, so...You ask yourself: Who's the REAL moron?"]]
Thanks to a Decepticon [[Titanium-class Destruction Drone]], Chase and his fellow Throttlebots were captured during one of their attacks on fuel storage depot, and brought to the Chief Decepticon Fuel Auditor [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]]. An outbreak of [[Scraplet]]s had begun on [[Earth]], and Ratbat ordered them to travel there and destroy all of the infected—or he would destroy the planet itself to prevent spread of the deadly disease. Given new Earth-style vehicle forms and canisters of corrosive acid, Chase and the others arrived on Earth. Chase stayed at the primary site of the infection with Freeway and Searchlight, while Rollbar and Wideload went to track another Transformer who'd left the scene. Rollbar and Wideload eventually returned with [[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Goldbug]], his human friend [[Charlie Fong|Charley Fong]], and a cure for Scraplets: the "rare chemical" [[water]]. With this knowledge, they managed to destroy all the Scraplets with help from another of the Earthbound Autobots' allies, [[G.B. Blackrock]]. {{storylink|The Cure!}}

Chase and the Throttlebots continued to travel on Earth with Goldbug and [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]], but that only made them targets for virtually everyone—the Decepticons, the Autobot faction Goldbug had gone AWOL from, and the humans who hated and feared all Cybertronians. After escaping one of the Combaticons, Goldbug suggested they hide in a used car lot (because that [[Plight of the Bumblebee!|worked so well for him before]]). Astonishingly the owner, [[Big Steve Ludwig (G1)|Big Steve Ludwig]], noticed a giant earthmover dump truck magically appearing on his lot, and soon put two-and-two together after receiving a notice from the local [[Rapid Anti-robot Assault Team|RAAT]] boys. After pouring sugar into the Autobots' gas tanks, he summoned the proper authorities. Chase and the other Throttlebots were carted off and taken prisoner by RAAT's parent organization, [[Intelligence and Information Institute|Triple-I]]. {{storylink|Used Autobots}}

[[File:DarkStar Throttlebots die.JPG|thumb|upright=1.1|"I ever tell you about the time Keith and I made fireworks? Now, I didn't know shit about chemistry, but Keith figured 'Gasoline burns, doesn't it?" Heh, third-degree burns on 95% of his body. Man, people in the next city over were calling to complain about the smell of burning skin."]]
Still not recognizing the difference between Autobots and Decepticons, III's bigwigs publicly threatened to execute their prisoners if any more robot attacks took place. Guess what—the Decepticons were willing to call their bluff. After the inevitable raid, [[Forrest Forsythe]] ordered the Autobots crushed into cubes. However, a sympathetic (and borderline competent) agent named [[Walter Barnett (G1)|Walter Barnett]] realized Chase and his friends were telling the truth about there being two factions of robots, and salvaged their cerebro-circuits before the execution, transferring their brain chips into electronic toy cars. Barnett then brought the Autobots in his care to meet with [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]], longtime friend of their Earthbound forces. The reunion was cut short by the [[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]], who had caught the Throttlebots' scent, and sought to crush them dead in their vulnerable state. The Throttlebots managed to outmaneuver their pursuers through a shopping center. Barnett and Buster were separated during the chase, with most of the Throttlebots winding up in Barnett's custody once more. {{storylink|Toy Soldiers!}}

Chase and the rest of the Throttlebots remained in Barnett's possession for some time. The human brought the five of them to consult on a hostage situation after Buster wound up on the Decepticons' [[Club Con|island base]]. Before any of them had the chance to dispense any advice, the island transformed into a spacecraft and launched, with Buster still on board. {{storylink|The Desert Island of Space!}} The Throttlebots were apparently returned to the Autobots at some point, and reconstructed into new bodies replicating their old ones. When an [[Underbase]]-powered [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]] announced that he would "destroy the cities of [[New York City|New York]], [[Tokyo]], and [[Buenos Aires]]," Chase was among the allied Autobot/Decepticon teams sent ahead to [[Japan]] to try and stop him. He and the rest of the Throttlebots didn't get to put up much of a fight, as they were all destroyed by Starscream before even getting a chance to transform. {{storylink|Dark Star}}
{{-}}

=====Marvel UK future timelines=====
{{note|In this story, Chase is consistently miscolored as [[Rollbar (G1)|Rollbar]].}}
[[File:Chase perceptor space pirates.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.2]]
In [[2008]], Chase was active at [[Autobot City (G1)|Autobot City]] on Earth when the [[Quintesson]]s raided the base. He was presumably disabled with the rest of the Autobots present. {{storylink|Space Pirates!}}
{{-}}

====Marvel ''Generation 2'' comic====
[[File:FinalTransformations Chase dies.JPG|thumb|upright=1.34|"I ever tell you about the time Keith tried to deep-fry a turkey? Third-degree burns over 90 percent of his body. His doctor called up, like, other doctors to look at him cause they'd never seen burns on top of existing burns!"]]
Years later, a resurrected Chase was part of a detachment sent to Earth to deal with the menace of a revived [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]]. The team was very surprised to find that this Megatron guy was actually pretty powerful, and soon started making mincemeat out of them. Chase got his leg blown off, and told the rest of the team not to wait for him. He kept firing as Megatron approached, only to get blown to smithereens at point blank range for his troubles.

Megatron then examined Chase's snapped-off leg, looking for a soil sample that would let him locate the Autobots' starship. An enraged [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] would beat on Megatron, declaring one punch was "for Chase". {{storylink|Final Transformations}}
{{-}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===
====''The Transformers'' cartoon====
{{voiceactor|[[Rob Paulsen]] (English, casting only), [[Kunihiko Yasui]] (Japanese)}}
[[File:ReturnOptimusPrime1 Chase infected.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|"My buddy Keith tried camping out inside this here lab once. He was shooting crows, but [[Mark Morgan|the]] [[Gregory Swofford|scientists]] were too busy teargassin' him to ask what he was doin' in there. He screamed for an entire year every single time he opened his optics! Oh, man! At first, it was funny; then it just got sad, but then it got funny again! Oh, man!"]]
Chase was with the [[Throttlebot]]s when they were ordered to retrieve the body of [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]], but they ended up being infected by the [[Hate Plague]], which made Chase even redder and also prone to attack his comrades. {{storylink|The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 1}} Chase and the Throttlebots were later cured when Optimus unleashed the wisdom of the [[Matrix of Leadership]] {{storylink|The Return of Optimus Prime, Part 2}}, and helped defend [[Autobot City (G1)|Autobot City]] from a Decepticon attack. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 1}} Chase was later present as Cybertron was re-energized and a new Golden Age was ushered in. {{storylink|The Rebirth, Part 3}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
=====''The Headmasters'' cartoon=====
{{voiceactor|[[Tomomichi Nishimura]] (Japanese)}}
[[File:ApproachMeteorite Chase WideLoad twisted.JPG|left|thumb|upright=1.1|"Man, I love malls. I do. Once, I was in this mall, up in [[Metamorphose]], and these guys were dancing for like money and stuff and my friend [[Wideload (G1)|Wideload]] and I was all..."]]
Chase and his Throttlebot buddies were seen on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] during a Decepticon attack. They tried to fight back against the new Decepticon [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmasters]], but didn't fare well against [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]]'s hypnosis. {{storylink|Four Warriors Come out of the Sky}} The Throttlebots were dispatched again to protect their home planet from the [[Madmachine]], but they couldn't even scratch its armor. Instead they opted for scrapping with the machine's Headmaster guards, and did remarkably better than in their first battle. {{storylink|The Great Cassette Operation}}

Later, the Throttlebots traveled to Earth to fight some Decepticons, but ended up sneaking into space to stop the Decepticon meteorite [[Metamorphose]] by themselves for the fame and glory. However, when Chase and [[Wideload (G1)|Wideload]] jumped out of their [[Autobot frigate|vessel]] to take care of the meteorite, they quickly learned about its power to twist and deform metal. {{storylink|Approach of the Demon Meteorite}} Chase and the Throttlebots were eventually twisted back into shape, as they reappeared much later on Earth. They challenged [[Predaking (G1)|Predaking]], guardian of a [[Death Tower]], but were swiftly defeated. {{storylink|The Final Showdown on Earth (Part 1)}}
{{-}}

=====''Legends'' comic=====
In [[2021]], a villain posing as [[Galactic Peace Alliance]] chairman [[Spike Witwicky (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Spike Witwicky]] declared Goldbug a traitor and ordered the other Throttlebots to destroy him, bringing them to the [[Legends World]] to confront their leader. However, the Throttlebots were reluctant to go through with it and stayed out of the fight, with Chase commenting that even someone as impulsive as himself had trouble following such an order. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 54|Bonus Edition Vol. 54}}

===2005 IDW continuity===
:*''First Appearance:'' [[Spotlight: Metroplex]]
[[File:Spotlight Metroplex Chase.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|"My buddy Keith started up a historic tour, on account of his mom took him to Colonial Williamsburg. And it's like a license to print money at them places. Now, you might ask yourself how an honest attempt to recreate the majesty of colonial times turned into raccoon fights at five bucks a pop in Keith's backyard, ha-ha."]]
Chase was assigned to a team known as the Throttlebots stationed on [[Orvus Base]], a research facility in orbit around [[Salvvatan VI]]. The research was classified several levels above top secret, and so the Throttlebots didn't even know what they were helping to safeguard. The point was apparently rendered moot when [[Sixshot (G1)|Sixshot]] arrived at Orvus, and slaughtered the entire research team. Chase and the Throttlebots took off in a tiny shuttle looking for a chance at survival. They found it a few planetary orbits away on [[Salvvatan VIII]]. Curiously, the nearby planet showed signs of life...Transformer life. The Throttlebots found a ghost town stocked full of energon and supplies. Fully refueled, Chase was more optimistic about their chances, but [[Searchlight (G1)|Searchlight]] spoke from experienced and told them that, with Sixshot, they were definitely still slagged. Sixshot soon arrived and proved as deadly as his reputation. Chase was the first of the Throttlebots taken down by the [[Six Changer]]'s attacks. They only survived thanks to the intervention of the mysterious and powerful [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]]. {{storylink|Spotlight: Metroplex}}

The departing Titan left the surviving Throttlebots a shuttle to leave, however they were pursued by Sixshot. Finally killing the Decepticon, the Autobots crashed onto a [[Regalis V|world of giant plants]] in the process. Still far from their home and failing to make contact with high command, the group came to the conclusion that the Autobots had lost the war.

After ten years, Chase noticed one of the trees move, but was not taken seriously by the rest of the group. However, it was soon undeniable that they were under attack. Under siege by [[beast mode]] Transformers, Chase carried Goldbug to safety long enough for them to be saved by an unlikely group led by [[Prowl (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Prowl]]. {{storylink|The Dead Come Home, Part 1 (of 2)}} While Prowl and [[Stardrive]] drove off the [[Maximal]]s, [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] and [[Garnak]] helped the Throttlebots onto the ''[[Peaceful Revolution]]''. Chase was shocked to find the planet had a proper name as they were carried away from it. {{storylink|The Dead Come Home, Part 2 (of 2)}}
{{--}}

==Toys==
===The Transformers===
[[File:G1Chase toy.jpg|thumb|upright=1.6]]
*'''Chase''' (Throttlebot, [[1987]])
**''Japanese ID number:'' '''C-94'''
:Chase transforms into a Ferrari Testarossa sports car. Like all [[Throttlebot]]s, Chase's primary gimmick is a pull-back motor that sends him zipping forward in either car or robot modes.

:The Throttlebots were part of the [[Decoy]] promotion in 1987, where the carded toys came with a soft-rubber figuring. The Throttlebots were the only team to come with either Autobot or Decepticon Decoys; the other toys in the promotion only came with Decoys of the same faction they belonged to.

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/1987/Autobot/Chase/chase.htm More information on Chase on TFU.info]''

*'''Chase''' ([[1991]])
:In 1991, Chase and the other Throttlebots were re-released in the European market as part of the "[[Classics (Europe)|Classics]]" line. This [[variant]] of Chase was [[retool]]ed to have the [[rubsign]] indent removed, the heat-sensitive decal replaced with a normal factory-applied paper faction sigil decal.
{{-}}

===Generations===
[[File:TF-Titans-Return-Roadburn.jpg|upright=1.6|thumb|''Chasing'' cons while he burns the road.]]
*'''Roadburn''' (Legends Class, [[2017]])
:Part of the fourth wave of ''[[Titans Return (toyline)|Titans Return]]'' Legends Class figures, "Roadburn" is a retool of the previous wave's [[Bumblebee (G1)/toys#Titans Return|Bumblebee]] mold with a new head based on Throttlebot [[Searchlight (G1)|Searchlight]], in homage to the long-running mix-up between his and Chase's heads. As with some of the ''Titans Return'' Legends Class figures, Roadburn features an opening canopy for his cockpit, which allows any [[Titan Master]] figures to ride within his vehicle mode. He also features 5mm-compatible hands, although the red piece can prevent longer posts from going through his hands. Also, take note that the vehicle back wings/shoulder kibble can interfere with wielding weapons. Swapping the shoulder parts can improve tolerances for posing, but it can prevent the toy from fully transforming into vehicle mode.

:Roadburn features a sculpted [[license plate]] that says "100 STRA", a reference to Bumblebee's [[Bumblebee (Movie)|live-action movie counterpart]] which Roadburn retains due to that part being unchanged from Bumblebee.

:The decision to change Roadburn's name from Chase to his new monicker was likely made ''very'' late in the design process as the instruction booklet in some samples states his name as '''Autobot Chase'''. This was likely so that kids would not confuse him with [[Chase (RB)|a different Chase]].
{{-}}

==Notes==
*According to [[Marvel Comics]] documentation from May [[1985]], "'''Rough Rider'''" was a preliminary name proposed by [[Bob Budiansky]] for this character. Presumably, Hasbro rejected "Rough Rider" for being a (now-outdated) sexual term just as happened to "[[Searchlight (G1)#Notes|Highbeams]]".
*Chase's [[character model]] uses Searchlight's head, and vice versa. This mis-matched design was used for all his major appearances in classic media, including the Marvel comic, the animated series, and even Japan's ''The Headmasters'' anime. The Marvel comic gets an extra-special mention, though, for swapping his ''color scheme'' with Searchlight's, too, so he always appears white instead of red... but ''only in robot mode!'' When he's in car mode, he's still red!

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Chase''' (チェイス ''Cheisu'')
*''English:'' '''Carlo''' ([[Omni Productions]] dub)
*''French:'' '''Poursuite''' (Canada, "Pursuit")
*''Italian:'' '''Scoutbot'''
*''Mandarin:'' '''Zhuībǔ''' (追捕, "Chase")

==External links==
*[http://www.redshirt.co.uk/toys/chase-must-die/ Chase Must Die - A scholarly look at the Throttlebots.]

[[Category:Generation 1 cartoon Autobots]]
[[Category:Generation 1 toy Autobots]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) Autobots]]
[[Category:Legends Autobots]]
[[Category:Marvel Generation 1 Autobots]]
[[Category:Marvel Generation 2 Autobots]]
[[Category:Scouts]]
[[Category:The Headmasters Autobots]]
[[Category:Throttlebots]]
[[Category:Titans Return Autobots]]

Wreckers

2021-03-12T03:45:10Z

YoungDoctor: /* Marvel The Transformers comics */

{{factions|autobot|wreckers}}
{{featured}}
{{disambig3|Wrecker}}
[[File:Wreckers symbol.png|thumb|Wreck & Rule.]]
The '''Wreckers''' are a special task force, generally composed of the best and the toughest die-hard fighters around. Its ranks include a veritable who's-who of the obscure; mechs you've never heard much about, mostly because the Wreckers are often called in to fight when the odds of success are slim. Bluntly, they tend to burn through their roster at a frightening rate. The Wreckers are a close-knit group that's more concerned with bursting in, guns-blazing, and doing their Thing, than they are concerned with, say, strategy. Despite their disregard for planning and the bodycount their team mounts, the Wreckers are amazingly successful. If it's a lost cause, the Wreckers will be there, winning the day with sheer guts and determination.

Perhaps the most celebrated leader of the Wreckers is [[Springer (G1)|Springer]], though the memory of his former leader, [[Impactor (G1)|Impactor]], hangs over his head. The team also has vague ties to [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]], and the [[Maximal]] future will bring leaders such as [[Apelinq (BM)|Apelinq]] and [[Primal Prime]].

They're associated with Autobots like the [[Deluxe Vehicle]]s and [[Jumpstarter]]s, but when [[Target: 2006|times]] [[Transformers: The Wreckers|get]] [[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|really]] [[Of Masters and Mayhem|desperate]], they'll grab ''anyone'': newly modified Autobots, [[Predacon (BW)|Predacons]], squishy [[human]]s, and even former [[Decepticon]]s or the [[Ironfist (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|dying]].

{{bigquote|Never a dull moment when you're a Wrecker.|[[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]]|[[Stormbringer issue 4|''Stormbringer'' #4]]}}

==Fiction==
===Generation 1 continuity family===
====Marvel Comics continuity====
=====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics=====
{{noteukexclusive|The Wreckers}}
[[File:Wreckersoriginallineup.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|They always smile after a nice massacre.]]
The Wreckers were [[Emirate]] [[Xaaron]]'s special ops squad, first being heard from during [[Trannis]]'s dread advances. Their first mission was to assassinate Trannis himself and they succeeded (and that meant [[Straxus (G1)|Straxus]] took over, whoops). {{storylink|Cybertron: The Middle Years!}}

In [[1986]], the roster of the Wreckers consisted of Impactor (the leader), Roadbuster, Whirl, Twin-Twist, Topspin, and Rack'n'Ruin. They were later joined by Broadside, Sandstorm, and Springer (who became the team's leader after Impactor's death). The team were set to be at the business end of [[Operation: Volcano]], killing ten of the most deadly Decepticons as they converged on a staged conference. Without [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Ultra Magnus]] around to help, however, they would have been massacred soon after and they came close to backing out, only to decide to do their duty. The Autobot [[Triple Changer]]s were sent in as a replacement.

However, when [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] called off the Decepticons' advance (truth be told, he didn't seem to know or care about it), the Wreckers' plans were also cancelled. As was Impactor's life, as one of the Decepticons, [[Macabre]], had stayed behind to kill [[Emirate]] [[Xaaron]], and Impactor took the 'bullet' for him. Impactor named Springer his successor as he lay dying. {{storylink|Target: 2006}}

Later, the team and Ultra Magnus were misled into trying to kill [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] upon his return to Cybertron. Decepticons had planted misinformation that Prime was in fact a Decepticon made up to ''look'' like Prime. Fortunately for the Wreckers' record, Magnus and Xaaron uncovered the truth before anyone could kill the Autobots' Greatest Leader. {{storylink|Distant Thunder!}} During his stay on Cybertron, Optimus Prime led the Wreckers on a number of fruitful raids on [[Decepticon fuel store]]s. {{storylink|Resurrection!}}

[[File:Technician wreckers legion of the lost.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.95]]
After Optimus Prime returned to Earth, [[Autobase]] in [[Kalis]] was rocked by a huge explosion caused by the venting of an active nuclear reactor. Xaaron told the Wreckers of Megatron's ancient plan to turn Cybertron into a vast mobile battle station and that Autobase was potentially built on top of the engine room. Springer led the Wreckers to try to find the entrance to the sub-terranean facility but they were unable to locate it. Upon their return Autobase was attacked by hoards of undead Transformers including their former leader, Impactor. Once the Wreckers and Xaaron were imprisoned, [[Flame (Marvel)|Flame]] revealed himself to be behind the explosion as well as the reanimation of the dead. Though shaken by recent events Springer managed to escape the cell taking Impactor with him. The current Wrecker leader did enough to reawaken some sense of self in the zombified Impactor before reaching the surface where he met Ultra Magnus and the [[Sparkabot|Sparkler Mini-Bots]]. Meanwhile, the other Wreckers had escaped and headed for the armory and, aided by a curious and vengeful Impactor, managed to reach the weapons necessary to defeat Flame's undead minions. With [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]]'s assistance, the Wreckers broke through to the main control room where Xaaron was preparing to sacrifice himself in order to reach the reactor shut down control. Under orders to leave, the Wreckers fought their way past more reanimated corpses, leaving Impactor to save Xaaron twice again, firstly by killing Flame and then entering the radioactive chamber himself to deactivate the reactor. Xaaron made it to safety and gave thanks for the bravest being he had ever met. {{storylink|Legion of the Lost!}} {{storylink|Meltdown!}}

[[File:WreckingHavoc-yourfoe.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Sandstorm and Broadside are on good terms with Galvy.]]
In [[1988]] the Wreckers were tasked to bring down [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]]. Both Xaaron and Springer had concerns about the mission but deemed it necessary due to the danger posed by the future Decepticon leader. The team transported through an unstable dimensional portal, unwittingly landing in a small mid-western town, to be confronted not only by Galvatron but also his two former lieutenants, [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]]. Unable to fight all three Decepticons as well as defend the human population, Springer managed to lure Cyclonus and Scourge away. Faced with a choice of allowing Galvatron to escape or aid their leader the Wreckers chose to help Springer. Galvatron was able to escape but the Wreckers vowed to return to finish the job. {{storylink|Wrecking Havoc}}

In an effort to reduce further risk to human life Xaaron sent an [[Advance Surveillance Unit]], consisting of Broadside, Sandstorm, and Inferno, to set up a reconnaissance base. Though their primary mission was to observe and not interfere, the two Wreckers and Inferno could not help put go to the aid of a local town when a [[Firebug (G1)|Firebug]] crash landed nearby and started multiple blazes. {{storylink|Firebug!}}

[[File:Megatron wreckers time wars.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.66|The Wreckers look on as Megatron goes Dreamwave on them.]]
The unit tracked Galvatron as he stockpiled equipment and supplies and discovered his subterranean base. With space and time [[time rift|ripping themselves apart]] due to the future Decepticon's presence, Xaaron sent reinforcements in the shape of a Decepticon [[Decepticon heavy transport|spacecraft]] carrying the rest of the Wreckers and the [[Mayhem Attack Squad]], who had formed a crisis alliance. The two teams made their way to Galvatron's unguarded base and were able to walk straight in. Unfortunately Galvatron had formed his own alliance with [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] (or at least, [[Straxus (G1)|his clone]]) and they attacked the two elite squads, who quickly began to fall beneath the might of the crazed duo. Topspin was one of the first to fall, victim of Megatron's [[fusion cannon]]. Cracks soon showed in the alliance as Springer and [[Carnivac (G1)|Carnivac]] almost came to blows, blaming each other for the disastrous plan. They were interrupted by Scourge and [[Ravage (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Ravage]], who had also allied themselves to Galvatron. Fortunately Springer was able to sow seeds of doubt about the cause of the space/time rift in Scourge's mind, distracting him, Springer then jumped him while Ravage was taken out by Carnivac. The Wreckers leader sounded the retreat and Carnivac reluctantly ordered his Mayhems to do the same.

[[File:TimeWars-frakamm.jpg|thumb|GET OUT OF MY WAY!]]
The teams re-grouped at the Decepticon ship with Galvatron and Megatron hot on their heels. Galvatron announced his arrival by destroying Sandstorm with his [[Particle cannon]], enraged Roadbuster fetched an experimental [[Pathblaster]] and managed to blow half of Galvatron's face off. However the weapon was unstable and exploded, killing Roadbuster before he could use it again. Galvatron was only further enraged by his injury ripping off Twin Twist's head and blasting Rack'n'Ruin. The remaining Wreckers were only saved by the arrival of reinforcements of Autobots and Decepticons from both the future and present day. With most of their members offline and the rest injured the Wreckers did not play any further part in the battle. {{storylink|Time Wars}}

After the Time Wars, the few survivors (Springer, Broadside and Inferno) joined together with other "outsiders"—both Autobot and Decepticon. The Decepticon ship they had used to reach Earth was stolen by Megatron and they were seemingly abandoned by High Command, with these new circumstances they ceased to use the Wreckers title and formed part of the (aptly named) [[Survivors]]. {{storylink|Survivors!}}
{{-}}

======Marvel UK future timelines======
[[File:Rodimus technobots wreckers peace.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.66||...have granted me the right to join two Cybertronians in holy matrimony. You sure about your best man Magnus?]]
In an alternate future of [[2510]], the Wreckers killed the last Decepticon in battle, signifying the end of the [[Great War (G1)|war]]. Upon learning this news, [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Rodimus Prime]] called together his warriors at Autobase to announce that he was stepping down as Autobot leader and selected Springer as his replacement. Triton, a Decepticon double agent who had infiltrated the ranks of the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobots]], sought to sow dissent in the Autobot ranks and questioned Rodimus's choice, suggesting that Ultra Magnus would make a better leader.

The resulting argument quickly escalated when [[Scattershot (G1)|Scattershot]] shot Roadbuster, blowing his head clean off. Sandstorm retaliated by killing Triton and soon the Autobots had split into factions fighting a whole new war, to Rodimus Prime's great despair. {{storylink|Peace}}
{{-}}

'''Known members:'''
{{collist|3|
*[[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]]
*[[Impactor (G1)|Impactor]] (first leader)
*[[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]
*[[Rack'n'Ruin (G1)|Rack'n'Ruin]]
*[[Roadbuster (G1)|Roadbuster]]
*[[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]]
*[[Springer (G1)|Springer]] (second leader)
*[[Topspin (G1)|Topspin]]
*[[Twin Twist]]
*[[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]]
}}

*Both Roadbuster and Whirl were absent during the Flame incident and initial Galvatron mission. Roadbuster reappears and dies during the Time Wars but Whirl is never seen again. As Springer states that the rest of the Wreckers are with him on the Decepticon heavy transport ship, this may indicate that Whirl either left the Wreckers or was killed in action.
*Dialogue in "[[Firebug!]]" suggests Inferno was not a Wrecker at this point. Later, in "[[Survivors!]]" and an [[Transformers Annual 1991|annual bio]], he was considered an ex-Wrecker. There is no indication of when he joined, most likely prior to "[[Time Wars]]".
*Rack'n'Ruin and Inferno are missing from the alternate future roster in "[[Peace]]".

=====''Regeneration One''=====
{{NoteRG1}}
[[File:Wreckers loose ends.jpg|thumb|upright=1.8| [[Great War (G1)|Great War]]? What Great War? Sorry, must have missed the call to arms. Did you make a mess?]]
Twenty-one years after the battle of [[Klo]], Springer led a team of soldiers known as the Wreckers. Loosely under the jurisdiction of [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Ultra Magnus]], the Wreckers were apparently separate from the standard [[Cybertronian Civil Defense]] rank-and-file. They stopped a terrorist act on Cybertron and later accompanied [[Kup (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Kup]] to visit planets affected by the Great War. On their first stop, Earth, they discovered it had been devastated some time ago. Before they had chance to fully take in the devastation their ship was promptly blown out of the sky by Megatron. {{storylink|Loose Ends, Part 1}}

[[File:Wreckers loose ends 2.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.6]]
The unit managed to bail out of the ship in escape pods, crash landing on Earth. Somewhat battered, the Wreckers had little chance to fully take stock before Whirl delivered the news that reanimated Decepticons were on their way. Heading out Springer decided to try to contact Cybertron and aid the safe approach of reinforcements. Leaving the injured at a safe distance the remaining Wreckers attempted to reach the [[Deep Space Network]] at [[Goldstone]]. Sandstorm, Roadbuster and Leadfoot tried to keep the zombie Decepticons distracted while Kup, Springer and Whirl made a dash for the transmitter. The former trio were not totally successful so Kup turned to assist to allow his teammates to send the message. Unfortunately he was taken by surprise by [[Skywarp (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Skywarp]], knocked unconscious and quickly taken to Megatron. Meanwhile, a group of human survivors stumbled across Rack'n'Ruin and the injured Wreckers. Assuming the worse the humans attempted to flee, Rack'n'Ruin tried to go after them but was held off by [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Circuit Smasher]] {{storylink|Loose Ends, Part 2}}

Though initially distrustful, Circuit Smasher eventually allied himself with the Wreckers and explained how human interference with the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] had led to the reactivation of Megatron. Somehow the Decepticon leader managed to turn the planet's defenses on itself, reactivated his fallen warriors and in a matter of hours had all but wiped out the Earth. Circuit Smasher took the Wreckers to meet [[G.B. Blackrock]] who told them that the Ark should be their key target as it formed the basis of Megatron's technology and defensive capabilities. However, before they could make any specific plans their meeting was interrupted by a call from Megatron who informed them that he had given Kup [[Scraplet]]s. {{storylink|Loose Ends, Part 3}}

[[File:Wreckers loose ends 4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
Springer once again split the Wreckers, while he, Sandstorm and Whirl went to meet Megatron the remaining bots and their human allies would assault the Ark. Both teams took heavy fire, Springer's squad were soon grounded by weight of numbers and the others got past the first wave of Ark defenses only to face a troupe of [[Guardian (Marvel)|Guardian Units]]. Megatron was about to execute Springer when Optimus Prime arrived with reinforcements, the distraction allowing the zombie Starscream to tell Kup to kill [[Ratchet (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Ratchet]]. {{storylink| Loose Ends, Part 4}}

Prime demanded the Megatron let Springer go, however the Decepticon leader merely goaded his nemesis by glibly blasting Springer's head off at point blank range. Blinded with rage Prime attacked leading Megatron to reveal that he had programmed [[Aunty|Auntie]], the Ark's computer, to launch every missile on the planet once their battle was done. At the Ark the Wreckers kept the Guardians busy so that Circuit Smasher could deal with Auntie. Kup managed to arm himself and make his way to Megatron's [[battle sled]] to kill Ratchet and with him Megatron with whom the medic had become fused both in body and mind. Considering it a mercy killing Kup shot Ratchet giving Prime the chance he needed to rip out Megatron's [[Spark]]. Fortunately by this time Circuit Smasher had deactivated Auntie and the planet was saved from further destruction. {{storylink| Loose Ends, Part 5}}

[[File:Kup fang destiny.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.9]]
In addition to Springer's death, [[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]] and [[Leadfoot (G2)|Leadfoot]] were left in critical condition because of their injuries. {{storylink|Natural Selection, Part One}} After returning to Cybertron, {{storylink| Natural Selection, Part Five}} the Wreckers acted as a security force for [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]]. When a group of Neo-Decepticons led by [[Fang]] blockaded the bridge [[Auto-artery RG1]], Kup led the Wreckers to detain them. When Kup started to come to blows with Fang, Roadbuster pulled him aside, suggesting they do things the way Springer would have, going so far as suggesting that Kup ''himself'' was making things worse by giving the populace something to hate. As they argue, two Cybertronians try to sneak past the blockade, attacking Fang, and causing a fight to break out. {{storylink| Destiny, Part Two}}

[[File:Wreckers destiny.jpg|thumb|upright=1.8]]
The Wreckers' next foray into action came in the form of a raid. Remotely coordinated by Ultra Magnus, they raided [[Fort Scyk]] in order to find apprehend [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] and his Neo-Decepticons. However, having anticipated this, the Decepticons had abandoned the place and wired it to explode. Unsurprisingly, all of the Wreckers survived virtually unscathed, and Kup proceeded to report in to Magnus on the situation. {{storylink|Destiny, Part Three}}

When [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] launched an all out attack on Cybertron, Kup tried to convince [[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]] to let the Wreckers take the front lines. Prowl refused, saying that the Wreckers needed to be applied strategically, he just didn't know ''where''. This frustrated Kup. {{storylink|Destiny, Part Four}}

The Wreckers were eventually dispatched aboard a ship to infiltrate Bludgeon's base of operations the [[Warworld]]. Bludgeon, fully aware of their presence, launched a solo attack on them, slaughtering them with his mastery of [[Metallikato]]. As the Wreckers tried to stand against him, Kup escaped to destroy the reservoir of Matrix energy powering the Warworld, but Bludgeon, having swiftly defeated all of the other Wreckers, pursues him. After catching him, Bludgeon proceeded to beat Kup to within an inch of his life, and the old-timer was only saved by the arrival of the newly christened [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Rodimus Prime]]. As the new Prime soundly defeated Bludgeon and disabled the ship, Kup, along with his fellow Wreckers and Rodimus fled the ship as it was destroyed. {{storylink|Destiny, Part Five}}

[[File:Wreckers war to end all wars.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.8]]
When a more successful attack against the Autobots was launched by [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]], and Rodimus, along with a good number of the Autobot's forces were captured, the Wreckers (with Broadside now fully recovered from his wounds on Earth) carried on the fight on their own, single-handedly fending off thousands of [[Cybertronian (faction)|Cybertronians]] while also desabalizing Jhiaxus's [[Hub (G2)|Hub Network]]. All while looking totally badass. When Rodimus and the others managed to free themselves, Autobot and Wrecker alike fled from the Hub as it began to disintegrate. {{storylink|The War to End All Wars, Part 4}}

Returning to Cybertron, the Autobots find the planet abandoned. Or so it seemed, as they were suddenly attacked by [[Shadow-leech]]es. As the Autobots held off the monsters, Perceptor came to the horrifying revelation that the Shadow-leeches were actually Cybertron's missing inhabitants, having been transformed by the [[Dark Matrix|Matrix's dark energy]]. As the Autobots' forces split up to cover multiple fronts, the Wreckers travel to Earth to recruit their human allies and team up to finally the up all lose ends. Upon successfully recruiting the humans, the Wreckers return through the space bridge they arrived in, taking the humans to Nebulos, where they dispatched a rampaging [[Fortress Maximus (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Fortress Maximus]], who had been possessed by the corrupted Matrix entity. Elsewhere, Rodimus defeated the Dark Matrix entity by sealing off their own universe from the rest of the multiverse, disconnecting them from Primus for good, causing the entity to die. However, without a connection to Primus, the Transformers' lifespans became decidedly finite, and over the eons all of the remaining Autobots and Decepticons, including the Wreckers, eventually died out from old age, a thing previously impossible due to their now-severed connection with Primus. {{storylink|The War to End All Wars, Part 5}}

'''Known members:'''
{{collist|3|
*[[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]]
*[[Kup (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Kup]] (second leader)
*[[Leadfoot (G2)|Leadfoot]]
*[[Rack'n'Ruin (G1)|Rack'n'Ruin]]
*[[Roadbuster (G1)|Roadbuster]]
*[[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]]
*[[Springer (G1)|Springer]] (first leader)
*[[Topspin (G1)|Topspin]]
*[[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]]
}}

=====''Transformers '84''=====
[[File:Wreckers secrets and lies.jpg|thumb|upright=1.57]]
When [[Punch (G1)|Punch]] had brought the news that [[Straxus (G1)|Straxus]] sought to reactivate [[Project Dreadnought]], he requested a dedicated wrecking crew from Ultra Magnus. Walking in at roughly the same time, Impactor and Roadbuster had a wave of inspiration. Rallying together some heavy-hitters, Impactor later retrieved Punch and introduced him to the Wreckers. {{storylink|Secrets & Lies issue 3|Secrets & Lies #3}}

[[File:Wreckers punch terrorcons secrets and lies.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.7]]
For their first mission as a team, the Wreckers deployed to the nerve centre of Project Dreadnought and split up to their designated holding positions until Impactor could think of an appropriate signal. When they encountered the [[combiner]] [[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]], left by Straxus to defend the site, he coined the phrase "Wreckers! ''um''... wreck... ...and rule!" and the team went to work with Topspin and Twin Twist heading underground while the others battled the gestalt. After Rack'n'Ruin managed to take Abominus down with a [[Hammer (weapon)|hammer]] to the face, Impactor and the others piled into battle with the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] and [[Sinnertwin (G1)|Sinnertwin]] managed to bite off Impactor's hand while he was holding a harpoon gun, which went badly for Sinnertwin. This bought the Jumpstarters enough time to lay enough explosives to demolish the control centre, and the Wreckers returned to base victorious. {{storylink|Secrets & Lies issue 4|Secrets & Lies #4}}

'''Known members:'''
{{collist|3|
*[[Impactor (G1)|Impactor]]
*[[Rack'n'Ruin (G1)|Rack'n'Ruin]]
*[[Roadbuster (G1)|Roadbuster]]
*[[Topspin (G1)|Topspin]]
*[[Twin Twist]]
*[[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]]
}}

====3H comics====
[[File:Wreckers3hlineup.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Now taking applications for: [[Cyclonus (G1)|Traitors]], [[Fractyl|Wimps]], and [[Alpha Trion (G1)|People Who Shouldn't Be Here]].]]
After the end of the war, the [[Maximal High Council]] called the Wreckers back into service to protect the fragile peace that existed between [[Maximal]] and [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]]. They were originally stationed in Delta Three within the [[Wrecker Command Base]], but would eventually relocate to Delta Five {{storylink|Apelinq's War Journals}} on the far side of Cybertron. {{storylink|Departure}} The war veteran and gifted engineer Apelinq was assigned to be a squad commander of this new iteration of the legendary Autobot strike force, and several of his former comrades were also drafted. [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus]] was also added to the ranks of the Wreckers in a commanding role. {{storylink|Disclosure|Apelinq's extended profile}} By 316 A.U., there were at least seven Wrecker Squadrons. {{storylink|The Wreckers: Finale Part 1}}

All but Rodimus and Apelinq were lost to [[Megatron (BW)/Beast Wars cartoon continuity|Megatron]]'s [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon forces]] and its [[transformation virus]]; by the time the foe was identified, many of the Wreckers had already fallen and Rodimus took the remainders bar Apelinq in a last-ditch strike in 316.247 AU. Rodimus' Matrix history left him immune to the virus and meant Apelinq could develop an inoculant, and meant they had a chance to find and save any survivors. Luckily, their depleted ranks were filled when a new horde of battle-hardened survivors—some brought by [[Primal Prime]] from the time-lost [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]]—surfaced in [[Polyhex]]. Around this time is when the team relocated from Delta Three to Delta Five, and Prime himself took command after an incident that sent Apelinq back in time. {{storylink|Apelinq's War Journals}} Apelinq eventually made it back via his own devices. In this troubled time, [[Decepticon]]s and [[Predacon (BW)|Predacons]] were also accepted into their ranks, including the Great War veterans [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] and [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]]. {{storylink|Departure}}

[[Cryotek (Universe)|Cryotek]] and the [[Quintesson]]s plotted to exploit this: the [[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]] [[shell program]] was placed on [[Vector Sigma]], allowing them to give false commands to any survivors and have Cybertron turned [[technorganic]], easier to conquer. Cyclonus was secretly working for them! {{storylink|Betrayal}} {{storylink|Disclosure}} (The technorganic shift was, in fact, part of [[Primus]]'s plan) {{storylink|Wreckers: Finale Part II}} The Wreckers were part of the many groups conned, sent off on a quest that would require fighting their way through the [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicon]] guards at [[Shuttle Complex Ohm]]. A staggered batch of reinforcements turned a likely trap into victory {{storylink|Departure}} to the annoyance of the enemy conspirators, but Cyclonus successfully bombed their ship in secret to impair them.

Five Wreckers died because of [[Packrat]] cowardly sacrificing them. This contributed to growing tension in the team. They made it to [[Akalo|Archa Nine]], home of the [[Divine Light]] power source that Cryotek coveted, and the team were so focused on Packrat that they didn't see Cyclonus coming! With the power source gone, the Wreckers could pretty much just mope. {{storylink|Betrayal}} Primal Prime took them on another quest, thinking he had an Oracle vision, and they found themselves on a planet where the Quintesson [[Al-Badur]] lived in exile. There, they learned of the true threat (and that ''Vector Sigma'' had sent Prime the message) and they'd need to get the hell back to Cybertron! {{storylink|Disclosure}}

[[File:Chromutated.jpg|left|upright=1.4|thumb|"We don't ''like'' out-of-towners!" "WE PUNCH WHAT WE DON'T UNDERSTAND!!"]]
The Wreckers made it back in time to find the newly technorganic planet was facing an all-out Quintesson invasion and they joined the army in fighting back. They took the fight to Cryotek, who successfully used the Divine Light to gain access to Primus' power; luckily, his first act of demigodhood was to accidentally merge Apelinq and Primal Prime into [[Sentinel Maximus]]! {{storylink|The Wreckers: Finale Part 1}} While the two leaders threw down, the rest of the Wreckers fought Cyclonus, [[Chro]], and the Sharkticons. Mid-battle, [[Tap-Out (Universe)|Tap-Out]] and Skywarp went [[Cauldron|missing]] but the Wreckers still triumphed over these other foes. In the end, Cryotek was defeated by forcing him into an extradimensional portal and the Divine Light's divine power was drained off. The cost was Rodimus' life and Sentinel Maximus being lost along with Cryotek.

The battle over, they mourned their lost comrades and went their separate ways in a new, peacetime Cybertron. {{storylink|Wreckers: Finale Part II}} (Well, ''briefly'' peacetime) {{storylink|Transformers: Universe (comic)|Universe}}

'''Known members:'''
{{collist|3|
*[[Apelinq (BM)|Apelinq]]
*[[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]]
*[[CatSCAN]]
*[[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]]
*[[Devcon (G1)|Devcon]]
*[[Dillo]]
*[[Fractyl]]
*[[Mol]]
*[[Packrat]]
*[[Primal Prime]]
*[[Ramulus]]
*[[Rav (BM)|Rav]]
*[[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus]]
*[[Rotorbolt (Universe)|Rotorbolt]]
*[[Sentinel Maximus]]
*[[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]
*[[Sonar (BW)|Sonar]]
*[[Spittor (BW)|Spittor]]
*[[Tap-Out (Universe)|Tap-Out]]
*[[Tigatron]]
}}

====Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity====
[[File:Wreckersdw.jpg|upright=1.4|thumb|The Wreckers: Featuring Ultra Magnus' Crotch.]]
The Wreckers split from the Autobot forces after the disappearance of [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] in a [[space bridge]] explosion. Led by Springer, they clashed with [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]]'s [[Ultracon]]s in the [[Tagan Heights]] for a time {{storylink|Transformers: War Within: The Dark Ages|War Within: The Dark Ages}} before reuniting with the Autobots and the [[Lightning Strike Coalition]] immediately prior to the Age of Internment. {{storylink|Transformers: War Within: The Age of Wrath|War Within: The Age of Wrath}}

'''Known members:'''
{{collist|3|
*[[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]]
*[[Roadbuster (G1)|Roadbuster]]
*[[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]]
*[[Springer (G1)|Springer]] (leader)
*[[Topspin (G1)|Topspin]]
*[[Twin Twist]]
*[[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]]
}}

Later on, during Shockwave's reign on Cybertron, the Wreckers whittled down to small but elite task force of Autobots dedicated to keeping the peace wherever (and however) necessary. The [[Triple Changer]]s left the group and Ultra Magnus stepped in to lead.

'''Known members:'''
{{collist|3|
*Roadbuster
*Topspin
*Twin Twist
*[[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (leader)
*Whirl
}}

When the [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]] were released from imprisonment in Cybertron's [[Detention Banks]], the Wreckers responded in kind. This, however, was after [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] had already wiped out the [[Omnibot (G1)|Omnibots]] and defeated [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]]. In the battle, both Whirl and Roadbuster were apparently killed before Ultra Magnus took charge and brought Menasor down. {{storylink|War and Peace}}

====2005 IDW continuity====
{{quote|What do you '''mean''', it's a lost cause? Of '''course''' it's a lost cause. That's why we're '''here!'''|[[Springer (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Springer]], [[Stormbringer issue 2|Stormbringer #2]]}}

{{quote|They give the Autobots something to ''believe in!'' And it's all thanks to [[Ironfist (G1)|you]]. Without Fisitron and his datalogs, the Wreckers would be nothing more than a bunch of ''thugs with a death wish.''|[[Verity Carlo]], "[[Last Stand of the Wreckers issue 5|Last Stand of the Wreckers #5]]}}

[[File:Wreckersstormbringer.jpg|left|upright=1.7|thumb|The IDW Wreckers are so hardcore they don't even need a spaceship. Except for when they [[Xantium (G1)|do]].]]
The Wreckers are the Autobots who get called in when the odds of success are non-existent, but the job needs to be done anyway. The origin of the group is unknown, and for the longest time their existence was no more than a rumor, even among the ranks of their fellow Autobots. {{storylink|Zero Point}} Because of the extreme nature of their missions, the Wreckers have a low survival rate, around 38% to 42%, depending on who you ask. {{storylink|Dead Men's Boots}} All of the founding members have died (with one [[Valve|deliberately ignored exception]]), and the group's roster has gone through over eighteen iterations. Although every active member isn't always present for every mission, Springer once said Wreckers only leave the group ''for good'' in three ways: death, dementia, or dishonorable discharge. In fact, the one rule this "No Rules" team abides by is The Veto: any Wrecker can remove any other Wrecker from the roster at any time. {{storylink|Interiors}}

The Wreckers' exploits have been lionized in the eyes of the rank and file by their unofficial biographer, "[[Ironfist (G1)|Fisitron]]", and his ''[[Wreckers: Declassified]]'' datalogs. {{storylink|Last Stand of the Wreckers issue 1|Last Stand of the Wreckers #1}} Before his death, Fisitron produced 331 datalog adventures for his heroes, cobbled together from data requests, mission reports and [[Autopedia]] bios about the Wreckers and their history. Many Autobots in the fleet subscribed to Fisitron's datalogs. They were an inspiration to the Autobots, heroes of daring exploits who never leave each other behind and always save the day... or so ''Wreckers: Declassified'' and the official line would tell them. {{storylink|Last Stand of the Wreckers issue 5|Last Stand of the Wreckers #5}} {{storylink|Bullets}} In reality, the ''Declassifieds'' were full of embellishments and were quite sanitised. The dirtier the war got, the dirtier the Wreckers got, and they were always ''particularly'' dirty. Before they'd gone public, at least one Decepticon was caught wandering around, gibbering about Impactor's harpoons, before killing himself. {{storylink|Zero Point}}

Among the many adventures chronicled by Fisitron were the Wreckers' battles with [[The Anguished]], an event involving Broadside and some [[Rada Mor|psychic explosives]], {{storylink|Bullets}} Impactor rescuing Xaaron from the [[Sonic Canyons]] (at which point he coined the battle cry of "Wreck and rule!", while flying a [[sky-sled]] into a drilling platform) {{storylink|Last Stand of the Wreckers issue 2|Last Stand of the Wreckers #2}} and the [[Siege of T'Muk]]. {{storylink|Last Stand of the Wreckers issue 1|Last Stand of the Wreckers #1}} Another episode involved Impactor rescuing hostages on the verge of an event horizon. {{storylink|Last Stand of the Wreckers issue 2|Last Stand of the Wreckers #2}}

[[File:RulesofDisengagement-BlackShadowvsWreckers.jpg|thumb|upright=2.2|right|Oh, and remember when Black Shadow blasted us all new ones? Good times.]]
They were founded by [[Threnody]] {{storylink|Sins of the Wreckers issue 1|Sins of the Wreckers #1}} and [[Valve]] was part of his first squad. {{storylink|Zero Point}} The earliest version we've seen in action was the 11th iteration, led by Crest and consisting of Hyperion, Impactor, Valve, Piston, Rack, and at least one more member. They battled the Warriors Elite genocide specialist named [[Black Shadow (Victory)|Black Shadow]], and three Wreckers died in combat, including their leader Crest and Piston. {{storylink|Rules of Disengagement (issue)|Rules of Disengagement}} Hyperion, a known former Wreckers leader, likely succeeded Crest as commander.

The roster continued to evolve, as Hyperion stepped down for reasons unknown, and Impactor went on to become the team's longest serving member and leader. The last surviving founding member, Valve, abandoned the Autobot cause and joined up with the Decepticons. He was responsible for founding and leading the Wreckers' opposite number, [[Squadron X]]. His betrayal cut so deep that the Wreckers collectively refuse to acknowledge his history with the group. {{storylink|Zero Point}} The reason for Valve's betrayal hasn't been explained, although considering that around this time the Wreckers recruited Whirl (a loose cannon indirectly responsible for the death of Valve's brothers, [[Wheelarch]] and [[Springarm]]), one could make an educated guess.

[[File:RequiemoftheWreckers WreckersWelcome.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.5|WELCOME TO DIE!]]
Following the battle of [[Sherma Bridge]] and after the public became aware of the Wreckers' existence, Impactor recruited Springer into the 17th iteration of the team. {{storylink|Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers|Reqiuem of the Wreckers}} Springer rose quickly in the ranks, becoming Impactor's first officer and nicknamed "his little green circuit booster" after his knack for rallying the team's spirits. Unfortunately, the horrors of war began to weigh on Springer, as he saw the Wreckers straying further and further from the [[Autobot Code]]. He ignored the "slips" for some time, then began telling himself at least he was making sure (increasingly fewer) Decepticons were still alive in incredible pain or buried rather than being dead, and then he began saying that at least it wasn't ''him'' brutalising prisoners; but as Impactor's hatred of Squadron X became more bittered and obsessive, Springer's resolve began to shake. A watching Prowl began waiting hundreds of years for an excuse to bring them in. And eventually, the Wreckers began to outright ignore threats, even as grim as the [[Black Epoch]] and the ongoing [[Simanzi Massacre]], so they could continue tracking Squadron X. {{storylink|Zero Point}}

After Springer was recruited, another Wrecker named Blocker succumbed to dementia and began cannibalizing his best friend. He was removed from the roster and replaced by Sandstorm. {{storylink|Zero Point}}

[[File:LastStandoftheWreckers4-triumphoverevil.jpg|right|thumb|upright=1.66|This roster feels familiar.]]
Twenty years before the [[Surge (event)|Surge]], the vendetta between Impactor and Squadron X came to an end on the neutral planet of [[Pova]]. The roster by this time included Springer, Roadbuster, Sandstorm, Whirl, Broadside, and the now conjoined Rack'n'Ruin. After being pursued across nine star systems, Squadron X was caught off-guard refueling their ship, the ''[[Pale Fire]]''. A battle ensued, and Impactor made the winning move by shooting through trapped Springer's back, taking the Squadron by surprise. The entire roster was captured and fitted with inhibitor claws by the Wreckers. Impactor proudly called in his catch to [[Autobot High Command]], but [[Prowl (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Prowl]] told him the unthinkable: they had to let Squadron X go. A non-interference pact made with the Povans made the capture illegal and a potential political nightmare, so Prowl ordered Impactor to release the Decepticons. Instead, Impactor took Roadbuster's gun and put himself in a room with the prisoners, executing each of them one at a time with a bullet through the brain module. Springer was nearly crippled by injuries he suffered during the fight, but as he dragged himself over to room, he saw Impactor standing over the bodies. {{storylink|Last Stand of the Wreckers issue 5|Last Stand of the Wreckers #5}}

Springer reported his superior officer to High Command, and Impactor was arrested under the [[Tyrest Accord]] for violating the Autobot Code and killing helpless prisoners. At the [[Aequitas]] trials, Springer's testimony sank any chances Impactor had of release, and he was sentenced to [[Garrus-9]]. A cover story was released that Impactor had been locked away for selling circuit boosters to the [[Chomskian]]s. {{storylink|Last Stand of the Wreckers issue 2|Last Stand of the Wreckers #2}}

[[File:Animals-RadarGatoraider.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4|left|"FINISH HIM!"]]
Springer became the Wrecker leader after Impactor's arrest. He'd been asked to by the other Wreckers and thought that he could correct their increasingly immoral course; what he didn't know was that the other members were trying to cover up their collusion with Impactor's murders. They lavished praise on Springer in the hopes that he wouldn't demand they be prosecuted, too, and the hoodwinked Springer gave such a clear, unambiguous witness statement to the guilt-reading [[Aequitas]] that none of the others had to be plugged in to give an account. {{storylink|Zero Point}} Some time after Springer took command, Rack'n'Ruin lost their lives. {{storylink|Dead Men's Boots}} Despite the change in leadership, the Wreckers continued to operate in a brutal capacity, maintaining their fearsome reputation among Decepticons. In a particularly-violent raid on a squad led by [[Krok (G1)|Krok]], Roadbuster- high on [[Syk]], tore out [[Radar]]'s spine and made him ''eat it''. {{storylink|Animals}}

Decades later, the Wreckers were assigned to [[Varas Centralus]] after the Decepticon [[Infiltration protocol|infiltration unit]] on that planet went to [[Phase Sixer|Phase Six]]. They were pulled out and sent back to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] at the order of [[Optimus Prime (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Optimus Prime]] when the Autobot leader suspected that [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] might have been behind the disappearance of the [[Calabi-Yau]]. {{storylink|Stormbringer issue 2|Stormbringer #2}} The Wreckers arrived just in time to save [[Nosecone (G1)|Nosecone]] and [[Afterburner (G1)|Afterburner]]. They then proceeded to take [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]'s team apart without breaking a sweat. {{storylink|Stormbringer issue 3|Stormbringer #3}} Thunderwing was ''slightly'' more challenging, but the Wreckers suffered no apparent casualties. {{storylink|Stormbringer issue 4|Stormbringer #4}}

[[File:SpotlightSideswipe ThunderwingVSWreckers.jpg|right|upright=1.6|thumb|]]
When Thunderwing popped up again guarding a cave on [[Corata-Vaz]], Optimus Prime sent for the team once again. {{storylink|Spotlight: Cyclonus}} While they did not succeed in stopping Thunderwing themselves, they managed to survive until he was rendered inert by [[Jetfire (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Jetfire]]. {{storylink|Spotlight: Sideswipe}}

Sometime later, some of the Wreckers were captured by the Decepticons. They were rescued by the remaining Wreckers, now led by [[Kup (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Kup]], [[Perceptor (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Perceptor]], and [[Drift (G1)|Drift]], who was acting independently. After this, Kup decided to form a new team that included Wreckers [[Springer (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Springer]] and [[Roadbuster (G1)|Roadbuster]]. {{storylink|Spotlight: Drift}}

[[File:LastStandoftheWreckers1-newrecruits.jpg|thumb|upright=1.45|left|"What's your name, soldier?" "Parts, sir! Private Parts!"]]
After the great push by Megatron, Kup and Perceptor were made into Wreckers, with Ultra Magnus and [[Verity Carlo]] providing them with transport. Springer began to rebuild the Wreckers, compiling a list of potential recruits and sending them to Prowl for approval. Prowl substituted [[Ironfist (G1)|Ironfist]] in over Springer's choice of [[Skyfall (G1)|Skyfall]], but the other picks were given the green light. {{storylink|Out of Bullets}} Along with Ironfist, Wrecker reservists [[Guzzle (G1)|Guzzle]], [[Pyro (G1)|Pyro]], and [[Rotorstorm (G1)|Rotorstorm]] were added to the roster. Springer was becoming weary of assembling these teams, only to see them blown apart.

The first mission by the new team was to travel to [[Garrus-9]] and bring it back under Autobot control. {{storylink|Last Stand of the Wreckers issue 1|Last Stand of the Wreckers #1}} After the arrival of a battered Impactor, however, they discovered that the sociopathic [[Overlord (Masterforce)|Overlord]] had seized control of the facility and the whole place had gone mental. A report from Prowl also stated they needed to find "[[Aequitas]]". Splitting into two teams, the Wreckers made planetfall {{storylink|Last Stand of the Wreckers issue 2|Last Stand of the Wreckers #2}} and soon became separated from each other. Perceptor's team were tasked to find Aequitas, but Springer abruptly changed strategy and split his group into two: one to find the prisoners, the other to "get help" from a maximum security cell. Perceptor's team succeeded—albeit with the loss of Rotorstorm to Overlord—but Springer, Impactor and Twin Twist were captured. {{storylink|Last Stand of the Wreckers issue 3|Last Stand of the Wreckers #3}}

[[File:LastStandoftheWreckers5- Ironfist Perceptor Verity.jpg|thumb|upright=1.6|right|]]
Topspin willingly sacrificed himself to activate Aequitas, simultaneously killing Twin Twist due to their branched spark. Kup and Guzzle failed to find the help they were looking for, but managed to save Springer and Impactor from death by torture. As Springer's team faced down Overlord himself, the other Wreckers finished their mission by downloading Aequitas's data into Ironfist. {{storylink|Last Stand of the Wreckers issue 4|Last Stand of the Wreckers #4}} Perceptor's group then went to aid the others in the battle against Overlord, with Pyro sacrificing himself in the process. Overlord effortlessly defeated most of the remaining Wreckers, but was eventually taken down thanks to Ironfist's connection to Aequitas. Garrus-9 was liberated, and miraculously, no further Wreckers had been killed in the fight with Overlord... though Springer was in a critical condition and Ironfist succumbed to a workplace injury and died on the way home. {{storylink|Last Stand of the Wreckers issue 5|Last Stand of the Wreckers #5}}

Convinced that their leader, Springer, was a goner, Whirl used Roadbuster's [[Sparkeater (weapon)|Sparkeater]] to attempt to euthanize Springer. Instead he was caught in the act by Roadbuster and kicked out of the Wreckers. {{storylink|Interiors}} [[Rung (G1)|Rung]] later suggested to Roadbuster that reading something emotional could reactivate the leader of the Wreckers, so Roadbuster read datalogs from the ''Wreckers: Declassified'', to no avail. However, after Roadbuster confessed to Springer what the other Wreckers felt about what Impactor did, and called Springer their best leader, the comatose Autobot began showing signs of life. {{storylink|Zero Point}}

Pardoned after Garrus-9, Impactor continued to wreck with Guzzle. The latter became increasingly blood-thirsty and large, and even Impactor, who'd made progress on giving up his overly violent ways, succumbed again.{{storylink|Escape (G1)|Escape}}

[[File:Sins of the Wreckers2-everybody's unhappy.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4|Ha, you expected that cool splash of the group from ''Sins'' #1? Tough luck, buster, you get a more accurate depiction of the Wreckers!]]
Five years after Garrus-9, Prowl was abducted by the insane [[Tarantulas (BW)|Tarantulas]] and to get him back, a rejuvenated Springer assembled a new Wreckers team out of old guys and whoever happened to be around. For most members, this was more about keeping Prowl's secrets like the Aequitas data out of the public eye. {{storylink|Sins of the Wreckers issue 1|Sins of the Wreckers #1}} In true Wreckers fashion, this went horribly wrong for most people involved and the team were rapidly faced with their own psychological issues: Kup learning how he'd killed Autobots while mad, Guzzle in constant battle fury, and Roadbuster proving still willing to torture. Backing Tarantulas up were [[Mayhem Attack Squad|Mayhem]], whose leader [[Carnivac (G1)|Carnivac]] felt Springer should be with them. {{storylink|Sins of the Wreckers issue 2|Sins of the Wreckers #2}} Half the team invaded the [[Noisemaze]] to reach [[Tor|Tarantulas' base]] and were immediately defeated by its maddening environment, with the exception of Verity (human) and the frequency-blocking Hubcap. The latter was then seen with Tarantulas, while Springer, Arcee, and Roadbuster were plugged into the guilt-extracting [[Impetus]] to relive their worst sins.

Impactor and Kup, meanwhile, had gone back to Debris: Impactor knew a little about the Noisemaze and had a 'backdoor' to it buried under his own in-waiting grave! {{storylink|Sins of the Wreckers issue 3|Sins of the Wreckers #3}}

While in Impetus, Roadbuster relived the [[Roadbuster affair]], where he killed his assigned cadets in the name of [[Mortilus]], who spoke to him as a voice in his head. In reality, the voice was Tarantulas, shrunken down to a tiny size to whisper in his ear. One surviving cadet was Hubcap, who was incensed that Roadbuster served minimal time for his crimes, and fell in with Tarantulas to help punish those responsible, including Prowl. Verity revealed she is dying due to exposure from Aequitas' radiation and blackmailed Prowl as a cry for help. Impactor, Guzzle and Kup used a space portal to drag ''Debris'' into the Noisemaze and collapse it, while rescuing their comrades. Inside, they battled the Mayhems, including Tidal Wave. Hubcap had a change of heart and freed the captive Wreckers, who attacked Tarantulas while Prowl went with Hubcap back to ''Debris''. Roadbuster smashed into Tarantulas and they both fell out a window. In the confusion, Tarantulas shrunk and buried himself inside Roadbuster's head, expanding to full size and killing him. Prowl is talked out of killing Hubcap due to his possession of the Aequitas data, just before Impactor did the deed, as the info was just too dangerous for Hubcap to possess. As the Wreckers planned to blow up the Noisemaze and destroy all of Tarantulas's inventions, the spider returned and confronted them. {{storylink|Sins of the Wreckers issue 4|Sins of the Wreckers #4}}

Using mass displacement, Tarantulas grew to massive size, while shrinking the Tor itself down to pocket size so that he could safely transport the facility out of the collapsing Noisemaze. He then turned on Arcee, Verity, and Prowl, gloating over how he healed Verity's illness purely to prove his intellect to Prowl. Springer planted explosives, while sending Impactor to deliver the Obtenteum and aid the others. Impactor revealed it was not Prowl who pushed Tarantulas into the Noisemaze all those years ago, but Impactor himself. At the sound of Springer's voice crackling over Impactor's comm, Tarantulas realized that Ostaros was not dead, but was now Springer. Tarantulas forgot his vengeance and instead climbed into the pit to reunite with his child. Prowl and Verity took the Obtenteum while the others battled Tarantulas.

[[File:Sins05-guzzledies.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.2|]]
While Tidal Wave punched his way through ''Debris'', coffins spilled out and Verity was brought to tears as Ironfist's body landed right in front of her. Guzzle used his own cannon to blast himself up into the air, jamming the Obtenteum into Tidal Wave's mouth and driving him mad. This forced Carnivac to unwittingly play into the Wreckers' hands by using his Outlier power to forcibly convert Tidal Wave to whale mode. The g-forces of the giant's transformation—amplified by the Obtenteum, were the last push needed to trigger the Noisemaze's complete and irrevocable collapse. Arcee and Impactor escaped while Tarantulas leaped into the pit after Springer. Springer attacked and could no longer transmit his part of the call-and-response signal, forcing Impactor, with the utmost reluctance, to press the button to set off the explosives. Aboard the damaged ''Debris'' Guzzle threatened to kill Kup and Prowl as revenge for the deaths of his friends on [[Tsiehshi]] and Prowl's crimes. Impactor was forced to kill Guzzle to save them. Prowl ran back inside the Noisemaze before it collapsed and saved Springer's life. Kup and Arcee returned to Optimus Prime's ranks on Earth while Impactor took up Carnivac on his offer to join Mayhem, joining their crusade to bring down those in power who use 'bots like them as pawns. Back in Nome, Alaska, Verity and Springer stared up happily at the Northern Lights, enjoying the normalcy while it lasted. {{storylink|Sins of the Wreckers issue 5|Sins of the Wreckers #5}}

[[File:RequiemoftheWreckers Wrookies.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.2|]]
Springer and Verity lived on their own for a bit, with Springer using his time to remotely train new Wreckers cadets, but the two were soon dragged into a new plot by Carnivac and Mayhem. After learning of Impactor's terrorist actions as part of Mayhem, Springer became disillusioned again by his former commander, but the two teamed up to save the kidnapped Verity from the survived Tarantulas and Overlord. To prevent Overlord from going back in time with Tarantulas' [[Timemaze]] portal, Impactor sacrificed himself to give Springer the opportunity to defeat the Phase-Sixer once and for all. With Tarantulas also having died and Mayhem in shambles, Springer decided to use the Timemaze to travel back and attempt to rewrite history so the war would never begin. He bid farewell to Verity and sent a message to his cadets, as well as all surviving Wreckers before he left. Springer begged them to honor the Wreckers' bloodstained legacy by forgetting it and stepped through the portal with the final advice "Wreck the past, Rule your future." {{storylink|Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers|Reqiuem of the Wreckers}}
{{-}}

'''Known members:'''
{{collist|3|
*[[Arcee (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Arcee]] (by association)
*[[Blocker (G1)|Blocker]]
*[[Breacher (G1)|Breacher]] (trainee)
*[[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]]
*[[Bulkhead (G1)|Bulkhead]] (trainee)
*[[Crest]] (second known leader)
*[[Guzzle (G1)|Guzzle]]
*[[Hubcap (G1)|Hubcap]]
*[[Hyperion (G1)|Hyperion]] (third known leader)
*[[Impactor (G1)|Impactor]] (fourth known leader)
*[[Ironfist (G1)|Ironfist]]
*[[Kup (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Kup]]
*[[Perceptor (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Perceptor]]
*[[Piston (Wrecker)|Piston]]
*[[Pyro (G1)|Pyro]]
*[[Rack'n'Ruin (G1)|Rack'n'Ruin]]
*[[Roadbuster (G1)|Roadbuster]]
*[[Rotorstorm (G1)|Rotorstorm]]
*[[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]]
*[[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]]
*[[Sixknight]]<ref>See [[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers#Errors|Requiem of the Wreckers]] under "Errors" for details</ref> (trainee)
*[[Springer (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Springer]] (fifth known leader)
*[[Stakeout (G1)|Stakeout]] (by association)
*[[Strongarm (BWU)|Strongarm]] (trainee)
*[[Threnody]] (first known leader)
*[[Topspin (G1)|Topspin]]
*[[Twin Twist]]
*[[Valve]]
*[[Verity Carlo]]
*[[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]]
}}
{{-}}

====''Cloud''====
The Wreckers of [[Cloud World]] were a special Autobot unit tasked with defending the entire world of space-time from dangerous threats. Numerous harsh missions caused many of them to develop rather bad tempers.

'''Known members:'''
{{collist|3|
*[[Ironfist (G1)|Ironfist]]
*[[Roadbuster (G1)|Roadbuster]]
*[[Topspin (G1)|Topspin]]
*[[Twin Twist]]
*[[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]]
}}

====''Wings Universe''====
During the Great War, the Wreckers were Autobot elite commandos led by [[Impactor (G1)|Impactor]], who served as the opposite number to [[Macabre]] and his Decepticons in [[Squadron X]]. Their long struggle came to an unexpected end when Macabre set an ambush for the Wreckers on [[Torax Prime]] which they never walked into. Instead, the various members of Squadron X slowly turned against Macabre or went completely insane waiting for the Wreckers to show up. Impactor's squad eventually came to Torax Prime only after hearing about a massive explosion, caused when [[Earthquake (G1)|Earthquake]] strapped a couple of bombs to his chest and rushed Macabre in a demonstration of his dissatisfaction with the current mission. {{storylink|Tornado - Decepticon Saboteur}}

The Wreckers' activities are largely undocumented beyond that, although centuries later, one group of Wreckers was led by [[Primal Prime]] during a [[Quintesson]] invasion. Shortly before or during [[2984]], [[Cheetor (BW)|Alpha Trizer]] recently reformed the Wreckers under Primal Prime's command and given the ship ''[[Rodimus Major]]'' to patrol distant corners of the galaxy in the name of peace (and give some of the more aggressive personalities on peacetime Cybertron an outlet). {{storylink|BotCon 2014|Primal Prime's customization class booklet}} {{storylink|Tornado - Decepticon Saboteur|Apelinq's personal logs}}

Primal Prime invited [[Flareup (G1)|Flare-Up]] to join the Wreckers, but [[Ginrai (robot)|Ginrai]] had already recruited her for the [[Cybertronian Knight]]s.

As the Knights responded with dread to an impending mandatory meditation session and lecture from Alpha Trizer, [[Devcon (G1)|Devcon]] quipped that the Wreckers had refused the assignment.

When Ginrai called a red alert for what turned out to be a space fender-bender at a [[Nebulos]] spaceport, Apelinq reported that the Wreckers were two systems away. {{storylink|Tornado - Decepticon Saboteur|Apelinq's personal logs}}

While journeying to check up on a Predacon colony near the [[Dark Nebula]], the ''Rodimus Major'' was caught in the gravity well of a wormhole anomaly. {{storylink|BotCon 2014|Primal Prime's customization class booklet}} With no hope of breaking free, Primal Prime ordered [[Fireflight (Universe Deluxe)|Fireflight]], the only Wrecker with personal FTL capability, to return at top speed to Cybertron with their logs. {{storylink|Tornado - Decepticon Saboteur|Apelinq's personal logs}}

'''Known members: '''
{{collist|3|
*[[Backstop (G1)|Backstop]]
*[[Buzz Saw (BW)|Buzzsaw]]
*[[Devcon (G1)|Devcon]]
*[[Drop Zone]]
*[[Fireflight (Universe Deluxe)|Fireflight]]
*[[Impactor (G1)|Impactor]]
*[[Night Viper]]
*[[Primal Prime]] (leader)
*[[Quickstrike (BM)|Quickstrike]]
*[[Hot Rod (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Rodimus Major]]
*[[Stockade (Universe 2003)|Stockade]]
*[[Tap-Out (Universe)|Tap-Out]] (second-in-command)
*[[Tripwire (G1)|Tripwire]]
*[[Wide Scope]]
}}

====Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity====
When [[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]] and [[Roadbuster (G1)|Roadbuster]] were created in [[Legends World|another dimension]], ''Transformers'' nerd [[Waspinator (BW)|Waspinator]] identified them as Wreckers from [[#Marvel The Transformers comics|a British comic book]]. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 4|Bonus Edition Vol. 4}} The two accepted this as their origin story and, after traveling to the year 2004 of the [[G1 World]], introduced themselves as Wreckers to [[Topspin (G1)|Topspin]] and [[Twin Twist]]. [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] overheard their conversation and thought it was a really cool name for a team, so he founded his own Wreckers as a new Autobot unit and recruited all four of them. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 7|Bonus Edition Vol. 7}} {{storylink|Jumpstarter Chapter#LG-07 Jetfire Sequel|LG-07 Jetfire Sequel}} Springer's vague mission statement for the Wreckers was "doing cool stuff", but [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Optimus Prime]] thought that was stupid and instead charged them with cleaning the area around [[Mount St. Hilary]]. As a result, a disappointed Springer left the team for a few years. {{storylink|Jumpstarter Chapter#G1 Wreckers Birth Story|G1 Wreckers Birth Story}}

In the 2030s, the Wreckers traveled to the Legends World to defend it from [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]] and [[Katsu Don]]. {{storylink|Jumpstarter Chapter#LG65 Twin Twist Prologue|LG65 Twin Twist Prologue}} Topspin and Twin Twist did most of the work thanks to having mastered the powers of the [[Zodiac]]. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 65|Bonus Edition Vol. 65}} {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 66|Bonus Edition Vol. 66}}

'''Known members:'''
{{collist|3|
*[[Roadbuster (G1)|Roadbuster]]
*[[Springer (G1)|Springer]]
*[[Topspin (G1)|Topspin]]
*[[Twin Twist]]
*[[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]]
}}

====Ask Vector Prime====
In [[Primax 208.06 Zeta]], the Wreckers were a resistance group led by [[Rodimus Primal]] that fought against [[Obsidian (BM)|Obsidian]]'s [[Vehicon (BM)|Vehicons]] on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime#Facebook|Ask Vector Prime, 2015/08/16}}

====''Of Masters and Mayhem''====
[[File:Toxic Transformer The Wreckers.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4|"What are we, [[Avengers|a team]]? No, no, no. We're a chemical mixture that makes chaos. We're ... [[Wreckage (G1)|we're a time bomb.]]"]]
When the monstrous [[Thunder Mayhem]] destroyed Cybertron, Impactor gathered together a motley crew of survivors to get revenge. He doesn't care if you're a geochemist or a mass murderer, this is all revenge, all the time!

[[File:LivelyPursuit Wreckers.jpg|thumb|upright=1.5|Wrecker's AA meeting.]]
'''Known members:'''
{{collist|3|
*[[Impactor (G1)|Impactor]] (leader)
*[[Punch (G1)|Counterpunch]]
*[[Fractyl]]
*[[Toxitron (G1)|Toxitron]]
*[[Alpha Bravo]]
*[[Offroad (Generations)|Offroad]]
*[[Wreckage (G1)|Wreckage]] (ultimate weapon)
*[[Bluestreak (G1)|Bluestreak]]
}}
{{-}}

====''Beast Wars: Uprising''====
During the waning days of the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]], the Wreckers tried to stop an [[Underbase]]-powered [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] only to be wiped out. {{storylink|Not All Megatrons}}

[[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] mentioned he was a former Wrecker. {{storylink|Derailment}}

===''Shattered Glass''===
The Wreckers were a band of mercenaries led by [[Rodimus (SG)|Rodimus]], who spent their time looting and pillaging the countryside. They approved of [[Optimus Prime (SG)|Optimus]]'s campaign of conquest, but initially preferred to remain autonomous.

That is, until one fateful day when Optimus hired the Wreckers to fight alongside his Autobots at the battle of [[Praxus-Delta]]. The battle was brutal and resulted in every Wrecker except Rodimus meeting the fate of most Wreckers across the [[multiverse]] at the hands of the Decepticons. Rodimus impressed Optimus by remaining in the fight regardless, in order to fulfill the contract. Thanks to his efforts the Autobots escaped without further losses, and Optimus was so impressed that he offered Rodimus leadership of the [[Seeker (SG)|Seekers]], which the former Wrecker accepted. {{storylink|Rodimus (SG)#Timelines|BotCon 2008 Rodimus profile card}}

After the [[Mayhem Suppression Squad]] had successfully turned back one of the Autobots' raids, [[Side Burn (SG)|Side Burn]] reminded Prime that he ''had'' recommended reforming the Wreckers as their best counter to the Squad.

Later, when trying to convince [[Cliffjumper (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Cliffjumper]] and [[Sideswipe (SG)|Sideswipe]] to leave the Decepticons and join up with one of his power-grabbing schemes, Rodimus hearkened back to what was likely the Wreckers' old motto, when he told them that they'd have "a whole planet ready to ''wreck-and-ruin''!" {{storylink|Dungeons & Dinobots}}

===''Animated'' cartoon===
During the [[Great War (Animated)|Great War]], the Wreckers were a major problem for the Decepticons, operating behind their lines as a commando unit. They are noted for interrupting supply lines, destroying the mainframe on [[Bk'n]], and demolishing the shipyards of [[Salvvatan VI]]. They operated from the [[Omega Sentinel (Animated)|Omega Sentinel]] ship ''[[Zeta Supreme|Xantium]]'', which was bonded to [[Impactor Major]], apparently the leader of the team. Megatron created the [[Decepticon Heavy Brigade]] specifically to hunt down the Wreckers. When they finally met in battle, [[Blackout (Animated)|Blackout]] was the only survivor on either side. {{storylink|Transformers Animated: The AllSpark Almanac II|The AllSpark Almanac II}}

===Aligned continuity family===
{{bigquote|Wreckers don't call for backup. They call for clean-up!|[[Wheeljack (Prime)|Wheeljack]] and [[Bulkhead (Prime)|Bulkhead]]|"[[Loose Cannons]]"}}
[[File:ChainOfCommand Wreckers.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|On the count of three, everybody say "Whirl sucks!"]]
The Wreckers were [[Autobot High Council|Council Guardians]]. {{storylink|Transformers: Exodus|Exodus}} [[Bulkhead (Prime)|Bulkhead]] and [[Wheeljack (Prime)|Wheeljack]] were also members, though early on in the war Bulkhead left to join [[Team Prime]]. {{storylink|Con Job}} Wheeljack left when [[Ultra Magnus (WFC)|Ultra Magnus]] was appointed to lead the squad {{storylink|Chain of Command (Prime)|Chain of Command}} by [[Optimus Prime (WFC)|Optimus Prime]] with the hopes Magnus would be able to give the squad some discipline. {{storylink|Project Predacon}} The Wreckers took part in the siege of the [[Hydrax Plateau]]. Afterwards, they were all that stood between [[Devastator (WFC)|Devastator]] and the [[Tagan Heights]] before [[Defensor (WFC)|Defensor]] arrived. They guarded the [[Well of All Sparks]] when [[Optimus Prime (WFC)|Optimus Prime]] descended through it to free the [[core]] of its suffocation by [[Dark Energon]]. Ultra Magnus, [[Springer (WFC)|Springer]], and other team members opted to remain behind to distract [[Trypticon (WFC)|Trypticon]] when the ''[[Ark (WFC)|Ark]]'' launched, gaining invaluable allies in [[Jetfire (WFC)|Jetfire]], [[Omega Supreme (WFC)|Omega Supreme]], and [[Alpha Trion (WFC)|Alpha Trion]]. {{storylink|Transformers: Exodus|Exodus}}

After Cybertron went dark, Wheeljack traveled the stars and eventually found Bulkhead on [[Earth]]. {{storylink|Con Job}} He left shortly after their reunion and continued to search the galaxy. He eventually found [[Seaspray (Prime)|Seaspray]], but [[Dreadwing (Prime)|Dreadwing]] had found them both and promptly destroyed Seaspray's ship, killing the Wrecker. When Dreadwing made his way to Earth, Wheeljack followed to get his revenge. {{storylink|Loose Cannons}} The [[Insecticon (WFC)|Insecticon]] [[Hardshell]] noted that he had off-lined several Wreckers when fighting Bulkhead. {{storylink|Toxicity}} Miko was inducted as a Wrecker by Wheeljack after she off-lined Hardshell. {{storylink|Hurt}} At some point, [[Elite Guard]] graduate [[Smokescreen (Prime)|Smokescreen]] had studied every battle the Wreckers had been involved in. {{storylink|The Human Factor}} After arriving on Earth, Ultra Magnus again attempted to instill some discipline into Bulkhead and Wheeljack, but this only led to Wheeljack temporarily quitting the team. {{storylink|Chain of Command (Prime)|Chain of Command}} The Wreckers served as a vital asset to Team Prime during the twilight days of the war, usually handling large swaths of enemies on their own {{storylink|Evolution}} and proved instrumental in securing the ''[[Trypticon (WFC)|Nemesis]]'' during the final battle of the war. {{storylink|Deadlock}}

'''Known members:'''
{{collist|3|
*[[Bulkhead (Prime)|Bulkhead]]
*[[Fisitron (Timelines)|Fisitron]]
*[[Hot Shot (Prime)|Hot Shot]]
*[[Impactor (Prime)|Impactor]]
*[[Jetfire (WFC)|Jetfire]]
*[[Kup (WFC)|Kup]]
*[[Miko Nakadai]]
*[[Moonracer (COP)|Moonracer]]
*[[Pyro (Prime)|Pyro]]
*[[Rack n' Ruin]]
*[[Roadbuster (Prime)|Roadbuster]]
*[[Rodimus (WFC)|Rodimus]]
*[[Rotorstorm (Prime)|Rotorstorm]]
*[[Ruination (FOC)|Ruination]]
*[[Seaspray (Prime)|Seaspray]]
*[[Springer (WFC)|Springer]]
*[[Topspin (FOC)|Topspin]]
*[[Twintwist]]
*[[Ultra Magnus (WFC)|Ultra Magnus]] (leader)
*[[Wheeljack (Prime)|Wheeljack]]
*[[Whirl (FOC)|Whirl]]
}}

===Live-action film series===
{{bigquote|We don't let them off the base much 'cause they're assholes.|[[Charlotte Mearing]]|''[[Transformers: Dark of the Moon (film)|Dark of the Moon]]''}}
[[File:DOTM-Leadfoot-Topspin.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|How am I gonna stop some big, mean Mother Hubbard from tearing me a structurally superfluous new behind? The answer, use a gun. And if that don't work? Use more gun.]]
The Wreckers, [[Leadfoot (DOTM)|Leadfoot]], [[Roadbuster (DOTM)|Roadbuster]], and [[Topspin (DOTM)|Topspin]], were a trio of engineering geniuses who came to Earth aboard the Autobot spaceship ''[[Xantium (DOTM)|Xantium]]''. The Wreckers rarely left the secret Autobot launch facility at Cape Canaveral, partially because caring for the ship dominated their time, and partially because they were assholes. The Wreckers helped engineer the Autobots' feigned exile from Earth and assassination by [[Starscream (Movie)|Starscream]], and later participated in the battle for [[Chicago]]. They proved effective, if vicious, fighters, dismantling their fair share of Decepticons, challenging [[Shockwave (Movie)|Shockwave]] and rescuing [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]] from an embarrassing situation. All three of them would continue fighting and would be among the surviving Autobots, accepting Earth as their true home. {{storylink|Transformers: Dark of the Moon (film)|Dark of the Moon}}

After the Battle of Chicago, [[Harold Attinger]] formed a secret faction of the CIA known as "[[Cemetery Wind]]" to hunt down all Transformers regardless of faction. Leadfoot was among the many casualties of the hunt, and his death was revealed to the surviving Autobots by [[Cade Yeager]]. [[Hound (Movie)|Hound]] sadly took off his hat in respect for his fallen friend, and Optimus Prime vowed to kill the person responsible for Leadfoot and the other's deaths. {{storylink|Transformers: Age of Extinction (film)|Age of Extinction}}

Topspin was very fortunate, as he was given sanctuary in [[Cuba]] with [[Seymour Simmons]]. He spends most of his time pestering him to go to the beach or play volleyball for fun. {{storylink|Transformers: The Last Knight (film)|The Last Knight}}

'''Known members:'''
{{collist|3|
*[[Roadbuster (DOTM)|Roadbuster]]
*[[Leadfoot (DOTM)|Leadfoot]]
*[[Topspin (DOTM)|Topspin]]
}}

====''Bot Shots''====
The Wreckers were an elite Autobot fighting force famed for their habit of not fighting fair. {{storylink|Topspin (DOTM)|Topspin's online bio}}

'''Known members:'''
*[[Roadbuster (DOTM)|Roadbuster]]
*[[Leadfoot (DOTM)|Leadfoot]]
*[[Topspin (DOTM)|Topspin]]
*[[Steeljaw (DOTM)|Steeljaw]] (pet)
{{-}}

===''Angry Birds Transformers''===
[[File:ABTF-screen WreckerSquad.jpg|upright=1.6|thumb]]
Yes, even the inhabitants of [[Piggy Island]] have their version of the Wreckers! This Squad of [[Autobird]]s is famed for toppling towers and popping [[Minion Pig]]s aplenty... and when they're all together, earning more gold coins in the process. Cha-ching! {{storylink|Angry Birds Transformers (mobile game)|Angry Birds Transformers}}

'''Known members:'''
*[[Stella (AB)#As Moonracer|Moonracer]]
*[[Chuck (AB)#As Rodimus|Rodimus]]
*[[Red (AB)#As Ultra Magnus|Ultra Magnus]]
*[[Bomb (AB)#As Wheeljack|Wheeljack]]
{{-}}

==Games==
===''Transformers: Earth Wars''===
When [[Optimus Primal (BW)|Optimus Primal]] convinced his comrades to go and help [[Sentius Magnus]], [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] agreed by "the Wrecker way". {{storylink|Transformers: Earth Wars|Equilibrium}}

==Notes==
*The ''Wings Universe'' Wreckers were supposed to feature in "[[Cybertron's Most Wanted]]" following their mentions in "[[Tornado - Decepticon Saboteur]]", but an art coordination error prevented this from happening.<ref>[https://www.allspark.com/forums/topic/135573-wings-universecannonball-loose-ends/?p=3406288 Post by NightViper (Jesse Wittenrich) on the Allspark Forums, 2016/12/23]</ref>

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Wreckers''' (レッカーズ ''Rekkāzu'')
*''Mandarin:'' '''Léitíng Zhěngjiù Duì''' (China, 雷霆拯救队, "Lightning Rescue Team"), '''Huíshōu Jiùyuán Duì''' (China, 回收救援队, "Reclaim & Rescue Team")
*''Hungarian:'' '''Rontók''' (''Dark of the Moon'', "Ruiners")
*''Indonesian'' '''Wreker''' (왜러긄 ''Wrecker'')
*''German:'' '''Schrotter''' (''Prime'', "Wrecker(s)")
*''Italian:'' '''Demolitori''' (''Dark of the Moon'' comic adaptation and ''Prime'', "Demolishers")
*''Korean:'' '''Wreckers''' (레커즈 ''Wreckers'')
*''Turkish:'' '''Yıkıcılar''' (''Wreckers'')

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Animated subgroups]]
[[Category:Autobot subgroups]]
[[Category:Beast Machines]]
[[Category:Beast Wars: Uprising subgroups]]
[[Category:Dark of the Moon subgroups]]
[[Category:Fall of Cybertron subgroups]]
[[Category:Generation 1 subgroups]]
[[Category:Prime subgroups]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass subgroups]]
[[Category:Subgroups]]
[[Category:Universe (2003)]]
[[Category:Wreckers| ]]
[[Category:War for Cybertron subgroups]]
[[Category:Wings Universe subgroups]]

Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection

2020-10-22T12:33:04Z

YoungDoctor: /* Volumes */

[[File:Definitive G1 Collection in full.jpg|thumb|upright=3.05|4/5 of a grand tale.]]

'''Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection''' is a fortnightly 100-volume partwork from [[Hachette]], edited by [[Simon Furman]]. Partworks are a Hachette specialty: a series will be collected out of order (the first ''Definitive'' was volume 6) for commercial purposes but can be collected on your shelf in order with a fancy picture on the collective spines. The collection aims to republish every single "Generation 1" comic ever made, including the original [[Marvel Comics]] run—UK and US—in order for the very first time. Each issue has a special cover and bonus content, and [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)#Fantastic Free Gift.21|Fantastic FREE! Gifts]] are provided for subscribers. Marvel UK strips which were originally printed in black-and-white have been given brand new colours by [[John-Paul Bove]] using emulations of both 1980s American and latter-day Marvel UK techniques.<ref>"A Different Approach to Colour", Vol.16</ref>

The series was initially announced in September 2016 to contain 60 issues—ending with the ''Dark Cybertron'' crossover—but by the time of its launch in December, it had already been extended to 80 issues, with volume 80 providing some closure in the form of ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One| Till All Are One]]'' and ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers| Requiem of the Wreckers]]''. In 2018, upon the conclusion of IDW's first continuity, fans observed that it would take around ten extra volumes to reprint the entire IDW catalogue—and on the 18th of July 2019, Simon Furman confirmed on Twitter that the collection had been extended by ''twenty'' issues for a total of 100.

Sounds great, right?

Well... not if you live outside the [[United Kingdom]] and [[Ireland]]. The partwork was given a trial-run in parts of the UK before a national release started in early 2017. In August 2017, the subscription also became available in [[Australia]],<ref>[http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?s=438cea1ad48786466241053a45f743ae&t=24685 Ozformers Transformers Club of Australia]: UK Definitive Comic collection from Hachette now in Australia</ref> but became unavailable in July 2018 due to the closure of the Australian distributor. In January 2019, it became available in [[Poland]],<ref>[https://transformers-kolekcja.pl/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIrYTRuabz3wIVl-F3Ch2P7wirEAAYASAAEgJKLvD_BwE Polish version of official site]</ref> with volumes being released in proper chronological order.

Even for those who were able to subscribe, the partwork ended up not being quite as ''definitive'' as advertised, suffering from strange ordering and editorial choices, and from some major printing errors. Hachette's notoriously-bad customer service made it a nightmare to obtain corrected replacements.

==Volumes==
{{note|Each volume contains cover art from the original issues, plus a new introduction by Simon Furman. The bonus features below are in addition to these.}}
{| class="wikitable sortable"
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Vol.
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Issue
! scope="col" style="width: 125px;" | Title
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Contents
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Bonus Features
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Release date
|-
| 06
| 01
|Target: 2006
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Target: 2006|#78–83]] "[[Cybertron: The Middle Years!]]" Marvel UK [[Target: 2006|#84–88]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Aerialbots over America!|#21]]–[[Decepticon Graffiti!|23]]
| A guide to the launch of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' in the UK and its marketing purposes for Marvel UK, a "Meet... The [[Wrecker]]s" feature, a behind-the-scenes look at the development of "Target: 2006", and a spotlight on [[Geoff Senior]].
|[[December 30|30/12]]/[[2016]]
|-
| 36
| 02
| Stormbringer
| ''[[Spotlight: Shockwave]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Soundwave]]'' [[The Transformers: Stormbringer|''Stormbringer'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Nightbeat]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Hot Rod]]''
| An article on the beginning of IDW-verse production and several sketches by Figueroa.
|[[January 11|11/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 16
| 03
| The Primal Scream
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Cold Comfort and Joy!|#198]], [[The Fall and Rise of the Decepticon Empire.|#213]]–[[Survivors!|222]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Back from the Dead|#56]]–[[The Primal Scream|61]]
| An overview of the change in format of the UK series and the introduction of 5-page black-and-white strips, and an article by Bove on the colouring techniques used at Marvel UK and Marvel US in the 1980s, and how he emulated them for colourising the UK strips.
|[[January 27|27/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 18
| 04
| Edge of Extinction
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Rhythms of Darkness!|#67]]–[[On the Edge of Extinction!|75]]
| An overview of [[Unicron/Generation 1#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel's Unicron]] and a spotlight on [[Andrew Wildman]].
|[[February 8|08/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 29
| 05
| The War Within
| [[Transformers: The War Within|The War Within #1–6]] and [[The War Within Preview|preview]]
| Various character design sketches by [[Don Figueroa]] and an article on the making of ''The War Within''.
|[[February 22|22/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 37
| 06
| Escalation
| ''[[Spotlight: Sixshot]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Ultra Magnus]]'' [[The Transformers: Escalation|''Escalation'' #1–6]]
| Sketches by [[E. J. Su]], bios on [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|IDW Ultra Magnus]] & [[Sixshot (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Sixshot]], an article on creating the IDW ''Spotlights'', and an interview with Su. 
|[[March 8|08/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 08
| 07
| Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive!|#113]]–[[Fire on High!|120]] "[[Vicious Circle!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[King of the Hill!|#27]]–[[Mechanical Difficulties!|28]]
| An overview of the Marvel UK Annuals and a bio on [[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Goldbug]].
|[[March 22|22/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 39
| 08
| Hearts of Steel
| [[Hearts of Steel|''Hearts of Steel'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Galvatron]], [[Spotlight: Optimus Prime]], [[Spotlight: Mirage]]''
| Concept art by [[Guido Guidi]] and an article about the creation of ''Hearts of Steel''.
|[[April 5|05/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 10
| 09
| Trial by Fire
| [[The Transformers: Headmasters|Headmasters #1–4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Trial by Fire!|#38]]–[[The Desert Island of Space!|39]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Worlds Apart!|#130]]–[[Kup's Story!|132]]
| A retrospective on the [[The Transformers: Headmasters|''Headmasters'' miniseries]] and an overview of how Marvel UK handled toy marketing.
| [[April 19|19/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 21
| 10
| Regeneration One
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Counterpoint|#80.5]]–[[Loose Ends, Part 5|85]]
| A commentary on [[Loose Ends, Part 1|issue #81]] by Simon Furman, an overview on production leading up to ''Regeneration One'', and several cover sketches.
| [[May 3|03/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 31
| 11
| The Iron Fist
| [[Transformers/G.I. Joe|Transformers/G.I. Joe #1–6]]
| Various character design sketches by Figueroa and an overview of the many [[G.I. Joe crossovers]] across the comics.
| [[May 17|17/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 50
| 12
| Heart of Darkness
| [[The Transformers: Heart of Darkness|''Heart of Darkness'' #1–4]] [[Infestation (IDW)|''The Transformers: Infestation'' #1–2]]
| A post-mortem on "[[Zombie|Zombots]]" across the various comics and a bio on [[Hardhead (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Hardhead]].
| [[May 31|31/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 59
| 13
| Dark Cybertron, Part 1
| [[Dark Dawn: Dark Cybertron Chapter 1|''Dark Cybertron'' one-shot]] [[Little Victories|''More than Meets the Eye'' #22]]–[[No Exit: Dark Cybertron Chapter 6|25]] [[Winners & Losers: Dark Cybertron Chapter 3|''Robots in Disguise'' #23]]–[[Finest Hour: Dark Cybertron Chapter 5|24]]
| A bio on the [[Titan (group)|Titans]] and the making of ''Dark Cybertron'' with [[John Barber]] and James Roberts.
| [[June 14|14/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 01
| 14
| Power Play
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Transformers (issue)|#1]]–[[The Last Stand|4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Man of Iron (issue)|#9]]–[[Raiders of the Last Ark|21]]
| The alternate ending of [[The Last Stand|Marvel US #4]], unused artwork from [[The Transformers (issue)|issue #1]] by [[Frank Springer]], and an overview of how Marvel UK first approached The Transformers.
| [[June 28|28/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 26
| 15
| War and Peace
| ''[[War and Peace|Transformers: Generation 1 vol. 2]]'' #1–6 and [[Transformers Volume 2 Preview|preview]]
| Top 10 Easter eggs for "[[War and Peace]]" and scorecards listing each faction and their crew members during the arc.
| [[July 12|12/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 35
| 16
| Primacy
| [[The Transformers: Monstrosity|''Monstrosity'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Primacy|''Primacy'' #1–4]]
| An interview with [[Flint Dille]] about his work on the G1 cartoon and his involvement in the ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy|Autocracy]]'' trilogy.
| [[July 26|26/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 64
| 17
| Windblade
| [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 1 #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[Onyx Interface Part One: Signals, Calls, and Marches|#35]]–[[The Onyx Interface Conclusion: The Obliterati|38]]
| A bio for [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]], an overview of her conception, pictures of her ''[[Thrilling 30]]'' toy, and early design sketches by Hasbro.
| [[August 9|09/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 19
| 18
| Perchance to Dream
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Out to Lunch!|#240]]–[[...Perchance to Dream|260]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Still Life!|#76]]–[[Exodus!|77]]
| A Marvel UK ''Classic Heroes Competition!'' page, an overview of Furman's attempts to connect Marvel UK's black-and-white strips to the US stories and how he would eventually have to abandon doing so, an article on the "[[Two Megatrons!]]" confusion, and a bio on [[Thunderwing (G1)#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Thunderwing]].
| [[August 23|23/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 40
| 19
| Maximum Dinobots
| [[The Transformers: Maximum Dinobots|''Maximum Dinobots'' #1–5]] ''[[Spotlight: Grimlock]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Wheelie]]''
| Dinobot sketches by [[Nick Roche]] and [[Klaus Scherwinski]]'s ''Spotlight: Wheelie'' sketchbook.
| [[September 6|06/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 22
| 20
| Natural Selection
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Natural Selection, Part One|#86]]–[[Natural Selection, Part Five|90]] "[[Peace]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]])
| An overview of the [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Marvel ''Generation 2'' comic]] and several cover sketches.
| [[September 20|20/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 46
| 21
| Things Fall Apart
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Things Fall Apart, Part 1: "New Arrivals, Old Encounters"|#2]]–[[Scrapper (issue)|8]]
| Character design sketches by Figueroa, an extract from ''[[Decepticomments]]'' from [[Things Fall Apart, Part 3: "Seasons in Flight"|''The Transformers'' #4]] by [[Mike Costa]], and a bio on [[Swindle (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Swindle]].
| [[October 4|04/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 07
| 22
| The Harder They Die
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Prey!|#96]]–[[Resurrection!|104]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Afterdeath!|#24]]–[[Funeral for a Friend!|26]]
| An analysis of [[the many deaths of Optimus Prime]] in Generation 1.
| [[October 18|18/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 33
| 23
| Megatron: Origin
| [[The Transformers: Megatron Origin|''Megatron: Origin'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Blurr]]'', ''[[Omega's Conundrum|Spotlight: Orion Pax]]''
| A discussion of the production stages on ''Megatron: Origin'' by [[Eric Holmes]].
| [[November 1|01/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 14
| 24
| Space Pirates
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Wrecking Havoc|#172–173]], [[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|#180]]–[[Dry Run!|189]] "[[Altered Image!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Man in the Machine!|#51]]
| How Marvel UK incorporated ''[[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|The Big Broadcast of 2006]]'' (US issue #43) into their timeline.
| [[November 15|15/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 43
| 25
| All Hail Megatron, Part 1
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #1–8]]
| An article on creating ''All Hail Megatron'', character design sketches by Guidi, and the series pitch by [[Shane McCarthy]].
| [[November 29|29/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 52
| 26
| The Death of Optimus Prime
| [[Chaos (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1 #24, 26, 28, 30, 31]] ''[[Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime|The Death of Optimus Prime]]''
| An interview with [[James Roberts]] on how he worked his way up to become an ongoing writer, and character design sketches by [[Livio Ramondelli]].
| [[December 13|13/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 44
| 27
| All Hail Megatron, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #9–16]]
| A ''Decepticon Roll Call'' with mini-bios, and trivia about ''All Hail Megatron'' [[All Hail Megatron issue 13|#13]]–[[All Hail Megatron issue 16|16]], pointing out notable plot points in the ''Coda'' issues.
| [[December 27|27/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 20
| 28
| End of the Road
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[A Savage Circle|#78]]–[[End of the Road! (US)|80]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Starting Over!|#261]]–[[End of the Road! (UK)|289]]
| Articles about the ends of the US and UK series, including discussion of "[[Another Time & Place]]," the final letters page from #80, and script pages from #80.
| [[January 10|10/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 72
| 29
| The Dying of the Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Dying of the Light: (1) How Bright Their Frail Deeds|#50]]–[[The Dying of the Light Part 6: Do Not Go Gentle|55]]
| The bonus story "[[No Guns, No Swords, No Briefcases]] and essential background material on the [[Decepticon Justice Division|DJD]]
| [[January 24|24/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 75
| 30
| Titans Return, Part 1
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[07:00:00|#1]]–[[The Line Between Us|4]] [[The Last Autobot|''Titans Return'' one-shot]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[White Light|#56]]–[[White Heat|57]] ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Ten to Midnight|#56]]–[[Last Light (issue)|57]]
| "Creating the IDW-Verse" — a two-page article on the beginning of ''More than Meets the Eye'' and ''Robots in Disguise''.
| [[February 7|07/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 60
| 31
| Dark Cybertron, Part 2
| [[The Dead Are Not Enough: Dark Cybertron Chapter 7|''Robots in Disguise'' #25]]–[[Black Planet: Dark Cybertron Chapter 11|27]] [[Burning Bright: Dark Cybertron Chapter 8|''More than Meets the Eye'' #26]]–[[The Becoming: Dark Cybertron Chapter 10|27]] [[...And the Damage Done: Dark Cybertron Finale|''Dark Cybertron: Finale'' one-shot]]
| A blow-by-blow account of Dark Cybertron's hidden secrets
| [[February 21|21/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 71
| 32
| All Hail Optimus
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[All Hail Optimus Part 1: Once Upon a Time on Earth|#50]]–[[All Hail Optimus Part 6: No Fair Fights|55]]
| Background material on the [[Council of Worlds]]
| [[March 7|07/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 02
| 33
| New Order
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The New Order|#5]]–[[Repeat Performance!|8]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Decepticon Dam-Busters!|#29]]–[[The Wrath of Grimlock!|32]] Marvel US [[DIS-Integrated Circuits!|#9]]–[[The Next Best Thing to Being There!|10]] "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1995]])
| Insights into Marvel UK's efforts to ease the transition between the US and UK material
| [[March 21|21/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 03
| 34
| Dinobot Hunt
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Christmas Breaker!|#41]]–[[Dinobot Hunt!|50]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Brainstorm!|#11]]–[[Prime Time!|12]]
| A look at the UK [[Christmas]] story tradition
| [[April 4|04/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 23
| 35
| Destiny
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Destiny, Part One|#91]]–[[Destiny, Part Five|95]], [[Less Than Zero|#0]] "[[Destiny of the Dinobots!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| A feature on Regeneration One issue #0 and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[April 18|18/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 30
| 36
| War Within: The Dark Ages
| [[Transformers: War Within: The Dark Ages|''War Within: The Dark Ages'' #1–6]]
| Synopsis of ''[[Transformers: War Within: The Age of Wrath|War Within: the Age of Wrath]]'', including art from unfinished issues.
| [[May 2|02/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 45
| 37
| Last Stand of the Wreckers
| [[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|''Last Stand of the Wreckers'' #1–5]] ''[[Ride-Along|Spotlight: Prowl]]'' [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[...For All Mankind|#1]]
| Interview with [[Nick Roche]], pre-production sketches and story drafts
| [[May 16|16/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 49
| 38
| The Iron Age
| [[The Transformers: Ironhide|''Ironhide'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Space Opera Part 1: The Stars My Destination|#19]]–[[Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix|21 ("Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix" only)]].
| Casey Coller's ''Ironhide'' sketchbook
| [[May 30|30/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 11
| 39
| The Legacy of Unicron
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Headhunt|#133–134]] "[[What's in a Name?]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) Marvel UK [[Grudge Match!|#135]]–[[Ladies' Night (issue)|138]], [[The Legacy of Unicron!|#146–151]] "[[Ark Duty]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Pretender to the Throne!|#40]]–[[Totaled!|41]]
| A feature on the origins of the origin of the Transformers
| [[June 13|13/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 17
| 40
| Matrix Quest
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Bird of Prey!|#62]]–[[All Fall Down|66]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Aspects of Evil!|#223]]–[[A Savage Place!|239]] "[[The Chain Gang!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| Features on the stories behind "Matrix Quest" and, Marvel UK's crossover "[[Deathbringer (Marvel)|Deathbringer]]" saga
| [[June 27|27/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 73
| 41
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 1
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[The Golden Boys|#0]]–[[Headmasters (issue)|7]]
| A creator commentary on issue #0 and an exclusive interview with [[Tom Scioli]]
| [[July 11|11/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 76
| 42
| Titans Return, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]] [[Ping|#5]]–[[If I Know You|11]]
| Article on ''[[Revolution]]''
| [[July 25|25/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 62
| 43
| Earthfall
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Earthfall Part 1: Hello Cruel World|#28]]–[[The Crucible|34]]
| The lowdown on the (new) human cast and rare promotional posters for the [[Dawn of the Autobots]] event
| [[August 8|08/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 04
| 44
| Second Generation
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Shooting Star!|#13]]–[[Plight of the Bumblebee!|16]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Robot Buster!|#59]]–[[Second Generation!|65]] "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]])
| The story behind Marvel UK's Special Teams promotion
| [[August 22|22/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 32
| 45
| Infiltration
| [[The Transformers: Infiltration|''Infiltration'' #0–6]]
| An article on "Creating the IDW-Verse: From the Ground Up", "The Pitch" - Furman's original pitch to IDW for Infiltration, and some sketches by [[E. J. Su]].
| [[September 5|05/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 24
| 46
| The War to End All Wars
| ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]]'' [[The War to End All Wars, Part 1|#96]]–[[The War to End All Wars, Part 5|100]]
| the prose story "[[King of Shadows]]" and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[September 19|19/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 28
| 47
| Worlds Collide Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Worlds Collide|#14]]–[[The_End|18]] [[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye#Issue .238|Dreamwave's ''More than Meets the Eye'' #8]]
| A brief overview of Dreamwave's [[Transformers: Energon (comic)|Energon comic]] and a bonus glossary section dedicated entirely to background material from the Dreamwave G1-verse
| [[October 3|03/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 42
| 48
| Revelation
| ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]: [[Spotlight: Arcee|Arcee]], [[Spotlight: Cyclonus|Cyclonus]], [[Spotlight: Hardhead|Hardhead]], [[Spotlight: Doubledealer|Doubledealer]], [[Spotlight: Sideswipe|Sideswipe]], [[Spotlight: Jazz|Jazz]], [[Spotlight: Metroplex|Metroplex]]''
| "-Ations" retrospective, sketchbook art from Alex Milne and E. J. Su reprinted from individual ''Spotlights''
| [[October 17|17/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 65
| 49
| Combiner Wars
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[First Contact (IDW)|#39]]–[[Now and On Earth|42]] [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2 #1–4]]
| An article on the [[Prime Wars Trilogy]]
| [[October 31|31/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 79
| 50
| Primeless
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Life of Sideswipe|#9]]–[[Primeless, Part 2|12]] ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light|Lost Light]]'' [[Chasing the Infinite|#9]]–[[The Plotters' Club (Part 3): Journey's End|12]]
| A one-page editorial by Simon Furman that mentions the IDW universe's impending end
| [[November 14|14/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 12
| 51
| Cosmic Carnival
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Enemy Action!|#152–153]], [[Salvage!|#160–161]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[People Power!|#42]], [[The Cosmic Carnival|44]]–[[Ca$h and Car-nage!|46]] Marvel UK [[Stargazing|#145]]
| A behind-the-scenes look at the UK-only return of Megatron
| [[November 28|28/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 25
| 52
| Prime Directive
| [[Prime Directive|''Tranformers: Generation 1'' vol. 1 #1–6]] (plus [[Prime Directive Preview|Preview]])
| A two-page article on 'the in-between years' covering the time when no-one had the ''Transformers'' licence for comics.
| [[December 12|12/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 53
| 53
| Liars, A to D
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Liars, A to D Part 1: How to Say Goodbye and Mean It|#1]]–[[Interiors|6]], ''[[The Reluctant Specialist|Spotlight: Trailcutter]]'' and ''[[The Waiting Game|Spotlight: Hoist]]''
| An all-new interview with James Roberts, rare archive material from the dawn of MTMTE, Alex Milne's sketchbook.
| [[December 26|26/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 55
| 54
| Shadowplay
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Rules of Disengagement (issue)|#7]]–[[More than Meets the Eye issue 13|13]], plus the [[Primus: You, Me, and Other Revelations|2012 Annual]]
| The second of a new three-part interview with Roberts, early pages of scripts, and design sketches from Alex Milne.
| [[January 9|09/01]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 13
| 55
| City of Fear
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[City of Fear!|#164]]–[[Deadly Games!|171]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Club Con!|#47]]–[[Dark Star|50]] "[[Dreadwing Down!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]]) "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1985]])
| A behind-the scenes look at a sea change moment for the US comic (Furman's takeover as head writer) and a [[Bob Budiansky]] sketchbook.
| [[January 23|23/01]]/2019
|-
| 41
| 56
| Drift
| [[The Transformers: Drift|''The Transformers: Drift'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlight:]] ''[[Spotlight: Drift|Drift]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Blaster]]''
| An article on creating Drift and some design sketches by [[Guido Guidi]].
| [[February 6|06/02]]/2019
|-
| 74
| 57
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[Pax Megatronus|#8]]–[[The War Never Ends|13]]
| No extras, but still has the cover art and intro from Furman present on all issues.
| [[February 20|20/02]]/2019
|-
| 47
| 58
| International Incident
| [[The Transformers: Bumblebee|''The Transformers: Bumblebee'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[International Incident Part 1: "The Land Ironclads"|#9]]–[[International Incident Part 4: "All My Sins Remembered"|12]]
| An interview with [[Zander Cannon]] and breakdowns for pages 1–4 of each issue of the ''Bumblebee'' mini-series.
| [[March 6|06/03]]/2019
|-
| 05
| 59
| The Smelting Pool
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Smelting Pool!|#17]]–[[Showdown!|20]] "[[Victory!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[In the National Interest|#74–77]]
|Background material on the [[Cybertron (planet)|planet Cybertron]] with map.
| [[March 20|20/03]]/2019
|-
| 54
| 60
| A Better Tomorrow
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[The Autonomy Lesson (issue)|#1]]–[[Interference Patterns|7]]
| A new interview with [[John Barber]]
| [[April 3|03/04]]/2019
|-
| 48
| 61
| Revenge of the Decepticons
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Heart Like a Wheel|#13]]–[[Revenge of the Decepticons Part 5: Enemy Mine|18]] ''[[Spotlight: Megatron]]''
| A ''Spotlight: Megatron'' sketchbook
| [[April 17|17/04]]/2019
|-
| 15
| 62
| Time Wars
| "[[All in the Minds!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Time Wars|#199–205]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Guess Who the Mecannibals Are Having for Dinner?|#52]]–[[The Interplanetary Wrestling Championship!|55]]
| A behind-the-scenes look at Galvatron's storyline
| [[May 1|01/05]]/2019
|-
| 58
| 63
| Shockpoint
|[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]] #[[Plan for Everything|15]]–[[Soundwaves (issue)|22]]
| A 2-page history of IDW Shockwave's history-setting plans.
| [[May 15|15/05]]/2019
|-
| 80
| 64
| Requiem of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[Your First Mistake|#12]] [[The Chosen One|''Till Are Are One'' Annual]] [[Ghost Stories|2017 ''Transformers'' Annual]] ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers|Requiem of the Wreckers]]''
| Wreckers sketchbook and notebook material from [[Nick Roche]].
| [[May 29|29/05]]/2019
|-
| 63
| 65
| Elegant Chaos
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Custom-Made Now - An Elegant Chaos Prologue|#35]]–[[The Frail Gaze|42]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[June 12|12/06]]/2019
|-
| 09
| 66
| Toy Soldiers
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Ancient Relics!|#125 and ''Action Force'' #24–27]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Crater Critters|#29]]–[[Used Autobots|32]], [[Child%27s_Play_(issue)|#35]]–[[Toy Soldiers!|37]]
| A one-page behind-the-scenes feature on "[[Man of Iron (issue)|Man of Iron]]" and how it got reprinted in the US comic.
| [[June 26|26/06]]/2019
|-
| 78
| 67
| New Cybertron
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[New Cybertron Part 1: To Walk Among the Chosen|#1]]–[[What It's Really Like|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Kei Zama]]
| [[July 10|10/07]]/2019
|-
| 67
| 68
| Conquerors
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[South of Heaven|#43]]–[[Conquerors Part 4: Perihelion|49]] ''[[An Uneventful Night|Combiner Hunters]]'' one-shot
| Development art by [[Andrew Griffith]]
| [[July 24|24/07]]/2019
|-
| 38
| 69
| Devastation
| ''[[The Transformers: Devastation]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]'' for [[Spotlight: Kup|Kup]], [[Spotlight: Ramjet|Ramjet]] and [[Spotlight: Cliffjumper|Cliffjumper]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 7|07/08]]/2019
|-
| 57
| 70
| Remain in Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Remembrance Day|#14]]–[[Remain in Light 5 of 5: This Calamitous Life|21]] Prose stories "[[Signal to Noise]]" and "[[The Sound of Breaking Glass]]"
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 21|21/08]]/2019
|-
| 77
| 71
| Dissolution
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Dissolution Part 1: Some Other Cybertron|#1]]–[[An Axe to Break the Ice|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Jack Lawrence]]
| [[September 4|04/09]]/2019
|-
| 69
| 72
| Sins of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Sins of the Wreckers|Sins of the Wreckers]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers Holiday Special]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[September 18|18/09]]/2019
|-
| 56
| 73
| City On Fire
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Dinobot Hunt (IDW)|#8]]–[[Before the Dawn|14]] [[Primus: All Good Things|2012 Annual]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[October 2|02/10]]/2019
|-
| 34
| 74
| Autocracy
| ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy]]'' miniseries ''[[The Hunting Party (IDW)|Spotlight: Thundercracker]]''
| A one-page article on ''Autocracy'', including an interview with co-writer [[Chris Metzen]].
| [[October 16|16/10]]/2019
|-
| 70
| 75
| Punishment
| ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Redemption]]'' one-shot ''[[The Transformers: Salvation]]'' one-shot
| An article about the Motion Book Tool app used for the digital version of ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'', a "Brief History of the (IDW) Dinobots", and a [[Livio Ramondelli]] sketchbook.
| [[October 30|30/10]]/2019
|-
| 27
| 76
| Worlds Collide Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_8|#8]]–[[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_13|13]] [[More_than_Meets_the_Eye:_Transformers:_Armada|''More than Meets the Eye: Armada'' ]] (select material)
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 13|13/11]]/2019
|-
| 68
| 77
| Empire of Stone
| ''[[The Transformers: Drift - Empire of Stone|Drift - Empire of Stone]]'' miniseries [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2]] issues 5–7
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 27|27/11]]/2019
|-
| 51
| 78
| Chaos Theory
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Police Action: Prologue|#21 ("Police Action: Prologue" only)]], [[Chaos Theory Part 1|#22–23]], [[Police Action: Part 1|25]], [[Police Action Part 2: Only Forward|27]], [[Police Action Part 3: A Second Chance at Eden|29]] [[The Question|Spotlight: Bumblebee]]
| A one-page article exploring the origins of the "[[Chaos (IDW)|Chaos]]" arc and beyond.
| [[December 11|11/12]]/2019
|-
| 66
| 79
| Speak, Memory
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The One Where They Go to Earth|#43]]–[[Speak, Memory! (Part 2)|49]]
| A one-page article about the [[Scavenger (group)|Scavengers]].
| [[December 25|25/12]]/2019
|-
| 61
| 80
| World, Shut Your Mouth
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[World, Shut Your Mouth Part 1: Towards Peace|#28]]–[[Births, Deaths, and Interventions|34]]
| A page of "Season 2" character posters.
| [[January 8|08/01]]/[[2020]]
|-
| 84
| 81
| The Falling: Part 1
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Dead Come Home, Part 1 (of 2)|#13]]–[[The Falling, Chapter 3: The Ground|17]] ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[Starscream: The Movie (comic)|Annual 2018]]
| A one-page article about the Primes.
| [[January 22|22/01]]/2020
|-
| 90
| 82
| Generation 2: Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[Ghosts|#0]]–[[The Gathering Darkness|6]]
| An article about [[Fleetway]]'s [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Fleetway)|UK ''Generation 2'' comic]], including [small-scale scans of] "[[War Without End (issue)|War Without End]]", their first UK-original ''G2'' strip.
| [[February 5|05/02]]/2020
|-
| 81
| 83
| Revolution
| ''[[Revolution]]'' [[Secret Raiders: A Revolution Prelude|#0]]–[[Valley Forge|5]] ''[[Thundercracker & Buster Save the World|The Transformers]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Informed|Till All Are One]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Nothing Will Ever Be the Same Again!|More than Meets the Eye]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro.
| [[February 19|19/02]]/2020
|-
| 89
| 84
| Realignments
| ''[[G.I. Joe and the Transformers (comic)|G.I. Joe and the Transformers]]'' [[Blood on the Tracks|#1]]–[[...All Fall Down!|4]] [[G.I. Joe (comic)|Marvel's ''G.I. Joe'']] [[Unfoldings!|#138]]–[[Final Transformations|142]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[March 4|04/03]]/2020
|-
| 82
| 85
| Revolutionaries
| ''[[Revolutionaries]]'' [[Crisis Intervention|#1]]–[[Ghost in the Machine (IDW)|8]]
| A two-page timeline of major IDW continuity events from issue #1, and the character profiles also from issue #1.
| [[March 18|18/03]]/2020
|-
| 92
| 86
| Transformers: The Movie
| [[Transformers: The Movie (Marvel comic)|Marvel's adaption]] of [[The Transformers: The Movie|the 1986 animated movie]] [[Transformers: The Animated Movie|IDW's adaption]] of that same movie
| A one-page article about the movie-verse in comics.
| [[April 1|01/04]]/2020
|-
| 83
| 87
| First Strike
| ''[[First Strike]]'' [[First Strike issue 0|#0]]–[[First Strike issue 6|6]] [[Unification Day: Dusk|First Strike: Transformers]] one-shot [[Unification Day: Dawn|First Strike: Optimus Prime]] one-shot
| A one-page "Prelude to...Unicron!" article, preceding the reprint of "[[First Strike issue 6#Coda: "The Signal"|The Signal]]".
| [[April 22|22/04]]/2020
|-
| 95
| 88
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 1
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers'' #1–6]]
| A one-page article about Devil's Due, a two-page article about creating the "Devil's Due-verse" and three pages of [[Mike S. Miller]]'s sketchbook art.
| [[May 13|13/05]]/2020
|-
| 85
| 89
| The Falling, Part 2
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Falling, Interlude: The First Who Was Named|#18]]–[[A Sunrise Dark|24]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[June 3|03/06]]/2020
|-
| 93
| 90
| Beast Wars: The Gathering
| [[Transformers, Beast Wars: The Gathering|''Beast Wars: The Gathering'' #1–4]]
and material from [[Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook]]
| An introduction by [[Ben Yee]], a 2-page "Unleash the Beast Wars" feature detailing the origins of the show and toyline, a 3-page "Creating the BW-Verse" interview with [[Bob Forward]], a 2-page "The (G1) roots of the Beast Wars" feature detailing the G1 elements in the show, 4 pages of [[Don Figueroa]]'s design sketches, and a reprint of the "[[Optimus Primal vs Megatron!]]" toy pack-in comic.
| [[June 17|17/06]]/2020
|-
| 86
| 91
| The Everlasting Voices
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Sardines|#13]]–[[The Everlasting Voices (3): You Are Here|18]]
| The first half of ''[[Transformers: Historia]]'' (up to ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'', including the [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]] profile, which was itself copied from the ''[[Hasbro Heroes Sourcebook]]''.
| [[July 1|01/07]]/2020
|-
| 96
| 92
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 2
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II'' #1–4]] [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War'' #1–2]]
| A two-page sketchbook of [[Don Figueroa]]'s original pencils for the the first 8 pages of ''The Art of War''.
| [[July 15|15/07]]/2020
|-
| 87
| 93
| Crucible
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Crucible (Part 1): A Dance Before Dying|#19]]–[[Crucible (Part 6): A Spark Among Embers|24]]
| The second half of ''[[Transformers: Historia]]'' including the [[Optimus Prime (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Optimus Prime]] profile.
| [[July 29|29/07]]/2020
|-
| 91
| 94
| Generation 2, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[New Dawn|#7]]–[[A Rage in Heaven!|12]]
| A profile on [[Derek Yaniger]], a outro by Simon Furman including [small-scale scans of] "[[War Zone|War Zone]]", their second UK-original ''G2'' strip.
| [[August 12|12/08]]/2020
|-
| 88
| 95
| Unicron
| ''[[Transformers: Unicron]]'' [[Our Darkest|#0]]–[[Ceremony|6]] ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[Post|#25]] ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[How To Say Goodbye And Mean It: Part 2|25]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 26|26/08]]/2020
|-
| 94
| 96
| Beast Wars: The Ascending
| [[Transformers: Beast Wars: The Ascending|''Beast Wars: The Ascending'' #1–4]] and material from [[Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook]]
| A 7-page Beast Wars Glossary (from the ''Sourcebook'' trade) and a 5-page Behind the Scenes proposal of Furman's planned third Beast Wars miniseries to be titled ''The Revisiting''.
| [[September 9|09/09]]/2020
|-
| 97
| 97
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 3
| [[Devil's Due Press|DDP]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War'' #3–5]] [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: Black Horizon|''G.I. Joe vs, the Transformers: Black Horizon'' #1–2]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[September 23|23/09]]/2020
|-
| 98
| 98
| The World In Your Eyes
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The World In Your Eyes Part One|#1]]–[[The Cracks Beneath Your Feet Part One|#7]]
| A Q&A with writer Brian Ruckley
| [[October 7|07/10]]/2020
|-
| 99
| 99
| The Cracks Beneath Your Feet
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The Cracks Beneath Your Feet Part Two|#8]]–[[The Change In Your Nature Part Two|#14]]
|
| [[October 21|21/10]]/2020
|-
| 100
| 100
| Constructicons Rising
| ''[[Transformers: Galaxies]]'' [[Constructicons Rising, Part 1|#1]]–[[Wannabee, Part 2|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[November 4|04/11]]/2020
|}

==Curation==
Although this collection was curated by Simon Furman, the man directly responsible for many of the stories it contains, many of the decisions it makes seem to be far from ideal.

Presumably as a result of these being the master copies in Hasbro's possession, Marvel US reprints are drawn from IDW's ''[[The Transformers Classics]]'' 'remasters', complete with newly-introduced typos, haphazard attempts to 'fix' errors, washed-out linework, and less authentic coloring than John-Paul Bove's brand new efforts! In a similar vein, cover galleries include the covers for both the US and UK stories, but ''not'' the UK-exclusive covers for US stories. This focus on presenting the 'unmodified' versions of US comics means that many of the minor edits made to those stories for their original UK printings (to better jive with Furman's expanded continuity) are absent.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-9#post-14167234 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "In order to smooth over the continuity cracks between the UK and US stories, the US books were usually edited (US#16-24 were especially affected) for their UK printing. But rather than the UK edits of the American stories, we get the familiar US versions. <nowiki>[...]</nowiki> Oh, and on page 214, there's a factual error as well, when it states that Transformers UK sold 200,000 copies per week. That's actually completely false. It actually sold 100,000 copies per week at its peak. That said, each individual comic sold would tend to be read by a number of people, as kids lent or gave their comics to siblings or school friends. It was calculated that, on average, each comic sold would be read by two-point-five people. Marvel (and other comic publishers such as Fleetway or IPC) would therefore take the ''actual'' circulation figures and apply this 2.5 multiplier to give a total readership that did exceed two hundred thousand on occasion. So whilst the ''readership'' was arguably 250K-plus, the actual ''number of copies'' sold was nowhere near that figure.</ref>

===Reading order===
The actual ordering of the Marvel material is far from straightforward, for various reasons:
*The two Furman-penned comics from [[Transformers Annual 1985|the 1995 annual]] don't have a particular place in the continuity: "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" is a standalone flashback that isn't referenced until UK #44, while "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" is a non-canonical present-day story written to promote toys that weren't appearing in the comic at the time. Presumably for reasons of space, they're included as backmatter in volumes 2 and 13; the latter consists mostly of stories released three years later!
*Volume 3 presents UK #41-50 before US #11-12, when they should be the other way around. Apparently this was a deliberate decision to place focus on the UK story the volume was centred around!<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/315915/thread Facebook post quoted by Andy Turnbull on the Transmasters UK forums]: "While we make every effort to maintain the original flow and continuity of the Marvel UK/US TRANSFORMERS stories, the self-contained identity and integrity of each individual volume is of paramount importance, especially as the collections aren’t released in chronological order. So, in a heavily UK-centric volume titled Dinobot Hunt, we took the decision to lead with the main/bulk of 'Dinobot Hunt' (and preceding issues) itself. Both UK and US strips are prefaced with a dedicated Story So Far to ease readers into the respective narratives, so they can be enjoyed together or in and of themselves. Naturally, we regret any inherent ‘spoilers’, but our policy is to create coherent and self-supportive volumes that anyone, casual reader or long-time fan, can pick up and enjoy."</ref>
*The minor Marvel productions "[[The Night the Transformers Saved Christmas]]" and "[[The Special Teams Have Arrived]]" are absent—but of course, the latter was completely retold in UK #63-65, included here in volume 4.
*The two comic stories from [[Transformers Annual 1986|the 1986 annual]] aren't directly connected to specific issues; "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" doesn't really fit into continuity, but certainly takes place after UK #65—which is where the partwork puts it—while "[[Victory!]]" (which explains what happened to the Dinobots between UK #50 and #65) is placed before UK #74-77, another Dinobot-centric story.
*"[[The Gift]]", UK #93's seasonal story by [[James Hill]], is omitted; it should be placed in volume 6 between US #22 and US #23.
*Volume 8 reshuffles things slightly relative to publication order; US #27 was originally published before UK #113-120, but is moved afterwards. As the stories aren't connected, this doesn't really affect anything.
*The stories from [[Transformers Annual 1987|the 1987 annual]] are scattered. "[[Vicious Circle!]]" is placed in volume 8 alongside UK #113-120, collectively forming the first "post-movie" storyline. "What's In a Name?" is placed in volume 11 directly before UK #135-136, which developed its premise further. "[[Ark Duty]]" is also thrown into volume 11, after UK #146-151... despite chronologically taking place some time before that story.
*In a move that actually ''improves'' readability, the ''[[Action Force (comic)|Action Force]]'' crossover "[[Ancient Relics!]]" (which originally interrupted the unrelated two-part story told across US #29-30) is moved before #29.
*[[Worlds Apart!|UK #130-131]] was written as an introduction to the Headmaster concept to UK audiences; it's recontextualised here as a flashback, letting the ''[[The Transformers: Headmasters| Headmasters]]'' miniseries lead directly into [[Trial by Fire!|US #38]]. Keeping UK-original strips in publication order however then causes trouble with [[Ladies' Night (issue)|UK #137-138]], which set up the Combaticons' appearance in... [[Used Autobots|US #32]], and [[Enemy Action!|UK #152-153]], which takes place before the launch of [[Club Con]] in [[The Desert Island of Space!|US #39]].
*[[Stargazing|UK #145]], a fairly standalone Christmas story, is thrown in at the end of volume 12.
*When Furman took over the US comic, the UK strips (having switched to black-and-white) generally stopped tying directly into the US material. Exceptions included [[Race with the Devil|UK #215-218]] setting up [[Back from the Dead|US #56]], Thunderwing's rise to power across [[The Big Shutdown!|UK #230-231]] and [[Rage!|#241]]-[[Assault on the Ark!|242]] paying off in [[Yesterday's Heroes!|US #60]], [[Out to Lunch!|UK #240]] following on from [[Skin Deep|US #59]], [[Mind Games|UK #243]]-[[Two Megatrons!|244]] further explaining Megatron's appearance in US #56-59, [[Whose Lifeforce Is It Anyway?|UK #249]] being nodded to in [[Bird of Prey!|US #62]], and the events of [[Deathbringer (issue)|UK #235-236]] being directly referenced in [[Dark Creation|US #65]]. This collection includes these comics in clumps during breaks in the action, ignoring most of this connective tissue.
*Starting with [[...Perchance to Dream|UK #255]] (as noted on the [[Earthforce]] page), the UK material effectively diverged into an entire alternate timeline; most of these stories are placed together at the end of volume 20.

The ordering of IDW's comics, meanwhile, can only be described as impenetrable to a new reader. As ''Infiltration'' was the starting point for that continuity, it is presented as the first volume, but in a stab towards chronological ordering the next volumes are devoted to prequels such as ''[[Megatron: Origin]]'' and ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy| Autocracy]]'', which were released well after the fact and don't really mesh well here. Even Furman's own work isn't safe: ''[[The Transformers: Maximum Dinobots| Maximum Dinobots]]'' is placed before ''[[Revelation (IDW)|Revelation]]'', and the other ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight| Spotlight]]'' issues are thrown in haphazardly wherever space allows. How much of the material following his run Furman has actually read, only he can say.

===Omissions===
It's apparent that when the partwork was planned out, Hatchette intended to be the first company to reprint the latter-day [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] material such as [[Transformers: Generation 1 (Dreamwave)|the Sunstorm arc]], ''[[Transformers: Micromasters|Micromasters]]'', and the ''[[20th Anniversary Transformers Summer Special|Summer Special]]''<ref>[https://simonfurman.wordpress.com/2017/01/ Simon Furman on WordPress]: "all the Dreamwave G1 material that saw print in single-issue form will be collected, including the rare Summer Special story, Welcome to the Jungle, and their ongoing G1 series"</ref> in volumes 27 and 28—but those volumes wound up containing issues from Dreamwave's ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)| Armada]]'' comic, which merely guest-starred G1 characters and seem very out of place in a "Definitive ''G1'' Collection" (unsurprisingly, the rest of the ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)| Armada]]'' and ''[[Transformers: Energon (comic)| Energon]]'' material is omitted). Presumably, this late change occurred for the same reason those stories have never been reprinted in the first place—nobody's sure whether the creative teams were actually ''paid'' for their work. A summary of ''[[Transformers: War Within: The Age of Wrath|The Age of Wrath]]'' was included, but none of the finished issues of that series or of ''[[Transformers/G.I. Joe: Divided Front]]'' were reprinted.

Many of the collection's other omissions can easily be considered editorial choices:
*The prose stories from Marvel UK's annuals are omitted, although it bears mentioning that most of them were written by authors other than Furman and are tricky to reconcile with the continuity proper anyway. Furman's stories are more conspicuous by their absence: "[[The Magnificent Six!]]" from the 1991 annual was part of the Earthforce storyline, and the 1992 annual's "[[Another Time & Place]]" was effectively the original coda to his Marvel run. UK #302's "[[Dreadwind's Xmas!]]" is absent too, notable for focusing on Dreadwind's time [[Letters page (Marvel UK)|answering letters]] for Marvel UK.
*At most, only small extracts are given of the various profile books released over the years: Marvel's ''[[The Transformers Universe]]'', Dreamwave's ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye| More than Meets the Eye]]'', and IDW's ''[[Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook| Beast Wars Sourcebook]]'' and ''[[Hasbro Heroes Sourcebook]]''.
*None of the material released by [[3H Productions]] or [[Fun Publications]] was printed in this collection.
*Minor pack-in comics like [[Milton Bradley]]'s "[[In the Transformers]]", [[Metrodome]]'s "[[The Beast Within]]", Madman Entertainment's "[[The Transformers (Madman)|The Transformers]]" and IDW's "[[Rodimus vs. Cyclonus]]" are understandably left out.
*IDW's non-''G.I. Joe'' crossover miniseries are all omitted: ''[[New Avengers/Transformers]]'', ''[[Aw Yeah Revolution!]]'', ''[[Rom vs. Transformers: Shining Armor]]'', ''[[Transformers vs. Visionaries]]'', ''[[Angry Birds Transformers (comic)|Angry Birds Transformers]]'', ''[[Star Trek vs. Transformers]]'', and ''[[Transformers/Ghostbusters]]''. So too are most of the tie-ins to their once-annual multi-property events: ''[[Infestation 2]]'', ''[[Mars Attacks: The Transformers|Mars Attacks]]'', ''[[The X-Files: Conspiracy: The Transformers|The X-Files: Conspiracy]]'', and ''[[Transformers: Deviations| Deviations]]''.

Less forgivable is the omission of "[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe: The Movie Adaptation]]", and that of the four-page "[[Black Cybertron]]" prose story from [[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe issue 10|issue #10]]. The various prose stories, profiles and comics first printed with the collected editions of ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'' are also absent.

==Coloring==
Colorist John-Paul Bove, known for his work on ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One| Regeneration One]]'', was hired by Hatchette to give color to black-and-white UK-original stories. The first of these was "[[Raiders of the Last Ark]]", included in volume 1. Like many of the earliest UK strips, only some of its instalments were printed in color, but this was the only story not to be later colourised in a reprint at the time. For this collection, Bove colored the entire comic in a style as close to the original marker-pens as possible, with the only edits being to correct an error and to put [[Guardian (Marvel)|Guardian]]'s colors in line with the character's later appearances.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/282848/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "Raiders has been coloured to match as closely as possible the original. As far as I can tell the original was coloured in marker pen! This involved some exceptionally detailed hi res scans and taking the texture and colour choices from the original (including a Megs with a lot of gold!). There were two changes made to the originals, one was a colouring error pointed out by Mike Collins himself that affected the linework (see if you can spot it) that I corrected and the other was that the Guardian colours were changed to match all subsequent appearances. When he is taken down he is left a solid colour in that Yomtovy way of doing things."</ref>

For the black-and-white strips printed following the UK comic's format change in 1989, Bove colored the stories depending on whether their plots tied into the UK or the US continuity. He cites "[[Race with the Devil]]" (the first black-and-white story of this kind) and "[[Fallen Star!]]" as examples of US-relevant stories. Meanwhile stories like "[[Survivors]]" emulated the richer colour combinations employed by the UK teams.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/282848/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "As stated in the colour commentary in vol 3, the style of colouring for the strips depends entirely on the continuity it follows regardless of which country it originated in. So Race with the Devil and Fallen Star follow US continuity despite being a UK originated strip. So the colour ref will follow what was in the Underbase Saga and the stories containing the classic Pretenders (so background Soundwave is Magenta as Ed said). At a certain point along the way the UK was instructed to follow the US way of colouring, so the techniques becomes the same though the guys and gals in the UK were geniuses in making combinations to generate richer pallets. That's why Survivors etc has been done in a richer, denser style."</ref> "[[Aspects of Evil!]]" and the [[Earthforce]] stories were colored to look like they could've been rendered with inks and airbrushes.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/282848/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "For Aspects of Evil (coming soon!) the colouring style is not bound by continuity. I felt doing something like Regen would be too far removed from the time, but instead I have coloured it in a way that could have been rendered with inks and airbrush but that still feels modern without any computer trickery. It's a style based a little on contrast and is hopefully both bold and subtle."</ref>

In some cases, Bove made choices with regards to color schemes based on in-universe reasoning, most notably with [[Xaaron]] and [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] in volume 19.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/299016/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "With Xaaron I was pretty sure that his appearance here was chronologically the first we'd seen him so I decided to make him his UK colours and leave his all yellow look something he got shortly after. This was partly because his all yellow look was awful and there was enough wiggle room to do it. Soundwave on the other hand had appeared magenta before the events of Starscream's Pretender process and after so to change him to blue for this moment between other moments requires a bigger ask. There is a whole complicated reasoning that had to apply to Thunderwing precisely because he appears in different colours in between coloured appearances. I reasoned that he was burned then jumped into the sea which lead to one colour change, got repaired and recoloured when he got back to the ship and then got given a final upgrade when he got made leader. I spent forever working out a logic that would make sense of all the colour schemes he had that I had to jump between. There was definitely method to the madness and many, many hours were spent making it as consistent, justified and sympathetic as possible."</ref>

==Notes==
* The free gifts shipped to subscribers with the first five deliveries (each consisting of two isses - except the first, which included a third issue free) were:
** Autobot/Decepticon [[insignia]] keyrings!
** A wallet!
** A tin-plate version of the cover to "[[Dark Star]]", featuring a cosmically-empowered [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]]!
** A mug!
** A pair of metal Autobot/Decepticon insignia bookends!<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20170112033736/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* Before the partwork launched, the second free gift was advertised as an [[Insignia|Autobrand]] belt buckle.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20160914212214/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* The first issue collected "[[Target: 2006]]", and was coincidentally out at newsagents thirty years after the story originally ran.<ref>[http://thesolarpool.weebly.com/transformers-uk227.html Solar Pool]: "The Target: 2006 book is already out... if it doesn’t [finish], Target: 2006 was back on at least some newsagents shelves towards the end of its 30th anniversary week. How cool is that?"</ref>
* The printings of Marvel material aren't really identical to those released by IDW—for instance, issue 1 (volume 6 - confused yet?) includes various Marvel trademarks (such as the superheroes around the edge of the cover to "Heavy Traffic" and the kid wearing a Spider-Man t-shirt in "Decepticon Graffiti") which were painted out of IDW's reprints due to rights issues.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-10#post-14168736 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "The weird thing is, though, these '''aren't''' the IDW versions. The cover to Heavy Traffic has all the Marvel characters around the edge, and the little kid in Decepticon Graffiti is wearing his Spider-Man t-shirt. This stuff was painted out of the IDW trades due to rights issues with Marvel."</ref>

===Errors===
* When the website launched, it accidentally credited [[Andrew Wildman|Andrew ''Wlid''man]].
* Copies of the first issue provided to general retail and initial subscribers had an error on the spine, with the black volume number box at the top being the wrong size.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14249131 ultra badness on the TFW2005 forums]: "I just got an email from Hachette to say they had misprinted the spine art on issue 1. And hey will send a replacement. Hurrah! Im going to have 3 issues!"</ref> Subscribers received free corrected copies, while those who bought theirs at newsagents had to wait for replacements which were included with issue 7.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14256091 Magnus' Mate on TFW2005]: "Incidentally, the 'corrected' #1 will be available to non-subscribers as well, included free with issue #7!"</ref> Hachette were seen giving away error-stricken copies for free at a signing event at a London comic shop.<ref>[http://forums.millarworld.tv/t/the-trades-thread-hardcovers-graphic-novels-and-more/4923/2359 Millarworld forums (dead link)]</ref> This error shouldn't be confused with the change in spine art for the first four issues made between the limited trial run and the mass release,<ref>[http://www.facebook.com/TransformersG1Collection/posts/1533415153338562?comment_id=1533436356669775&reply_comment_id=1533593929987351 Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection on Facebook]</ref> which means that anyone who subscribed to the series from its trial will end up with ''three'' different copies of issue 1.
* The poster included with issue 1 includes a bio for [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]]... which uses an image of [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]].<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13983869 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "Also: the poster that comes with Volume 1 (Target: 2006) shows some small character bios but goofs up the "Jazz" bio by using a picture of Prowl."</ref>
* The trial versions of issues 1 and 2 had the inside cover art swapped: the "Target: 2006" book had artwork for ''Stormbringer'', and vice versa.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13989359 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "On anybody else's copies, is the inside cover art wrong? I've got Stormbringer art inside the Target:2006 book, and Target:2006 art inside the Stormbringer book."</ref>
* A feature in issue 1 states that the Marvel UK comic sold 200,000 copies per week, when really it only sold 100,000 per week ''at its peak''. This error presumably stems from the fact that Marvel (and other publishers at the time) multiplied their circulation figures by 2.5 to calculate their readership, as they estimated that many issues would be shared between friends and siblings.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>
* Hatchette's own masterings of the comics introduce yet more errors. In issue 1, for example, an instance of '[[Skids (G1)|]]' in dialogue is misspelled as 'Skips'.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14277882 Bass X0 on the TFW2005 forums]: "In Decepticon Graffiti, Skids is called Skips on the second page."</ref> This error was not present in IDW's original reprints.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-13#post-14316444 Magnus' Mate on the TFW2005 forums]: "Except the IDW "Transformers Classics" volume 2 with issue #23 in doesn't have this same problem - Skids is still Skids, not Skips! I know there are other problems with them, but this one is on Hachette."</ref>
* The bio for John Paul Bove included in issue 3 (volume 16) was apparently written by himself in the first person, then edited into the third person—one of the sentences written in first person remains!<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-8#post-14101771 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "There is also a half page bio on JP, which was obviously written by himself in the first person, and then edited to be the third person- but they missed one of the first person senetnces and it is still in there!"</ref>
* Some copies of volume 22 had a number erroneously printed on one of the pages.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-20#post-15179844 rodster6 on the TFW2005 forums]: "Got volume 7 today (which I think is issue 22) and there is a weird number printed randomly on one page that shouldn't be there."</ref>
* The first print run for volume 35 had an error where the last two pages of ''Monstrosity'' #11 were swapped with two from "War and Peace" #3.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-18#post-14880721 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "The last two pages of Monstrosity #11 have been swapped with the ones from W&P #3"</ref>
* Many volumes include pages which are stuck together, though this is easy enough for the reader to fix.
* Though some readers may try to convince you otherwise, [[Mister Johnson]] is not an error.

==Covers==
<center><gallery caption="Marvel (US & UK)" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v1.jpg|Vol 1: Power Play
DefinitiveG1Collection v2.jpg|Vol 2: New Order
DefinitiveG1Collection v3.jpg|Vol 3: Dinobot Hunt
DefinitiveG1Collection v4.jpg|Vol 4: Second Generation
DefinitiveG1Collection v5.jpg|Vol 5: The Smelting Pool
DefinitiveG1Collection v6.jpg|Vol 6: Target: 2006
DefinitiveG1Collection v7.jpg|Vol 7: The Harder They Die
DefinitiveG1Collection v8.jpg|Vol 8: Wanted: Galvatron - Dead or Alive
DefinitiveG1Collection v9.jpg|Vol 9: Toy Soldiers
DefinitiveG1Collection v10.jpg|Vol 10: Trial by Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v11.jpg|Vol 11: The Legacy of Unicron
DefinitiveG1Collection v12.jpg|Vol 12: Cosmic Carnival
DefinitiveG1Collection v13.jpg|Vol 13: City of Fear
DefinitiveG1Collection v14.jpg|Vol 14: Space Pirates
DefinitiveG1Collection v15.jpg|Vol 15: Time Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v16.jpg|Vol 16: The Primal Scream
DefinitiveG1Collection v17.jpg|Vol 17: Matrix Quest
DefinitiveG1Collection v18.jpg|Vol 18: Edge of Extinction
DefinitiveG1Collection v19.jpg|Vol 19: Perchance to Dream
DefinitiveG1Collection v20.jpg|Vol 20: End of the Road
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Marvel's Generation 2" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v89.jpg|Vol 89: Realignments
DefinitiveG1Collection v90.jpg|Vol 90: Generation 2 Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v91.jpg|Vol 91: Generation 2 Part 2
</gallery>
<gallery caption="IDW's Regeneration One" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v21.jpg|Vol 21: Regeneration One
DefinitiveG1Collection v22.jpg|Vol 22: Natural Selection
DefinitiveG1Collection v23.jpg|Vol 23: Destiny
DefinitiveG1Collection v24.jpg|Vol 24: The War to End All Wars
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Dreamwave Productions" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v25.jpg|Vol 25: Prime Directive
DefinitiveG1Collection v26.jpg|Vol 26: War and Peace
DefinitiveG1Collection v27.jpg|Vol 27: Worlds Collide Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v28.jpg|Vol 28: Worlds Collide Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v29.jpg|Vol 29: The War Within
DefinitiveG1Collection v30.jpg|Vol 30: War Within: The Dark Ages
DefinitiveG1Collection v31.jpg|Vol 31: The Iron Fist
</gallery>

<gallery caption="2005 IDW continuity" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v32.jpg|Vol 32: Infiltration
DefinitiveG1Collection v33.jpg|Vol 33: Megatron Origin
DefinitiveG1Collection v34.jpg|Vol 34: Autocracy
DefinitiveG1Collection v35.jpg|Vol 35: Primacy
DefinitiveG1Collection v36.jpg|Vol 36: Stormbringer
DefinitiveG1Collection v37.jpg|Vol 37: Escalation
DefinitiveG1Collection v38.jpg|Vol 38: Devastation
DefinitiveG1Collection v39.jpg|Vol 39: Hearts of Steel
DefinitiveG1Collection v40.jpg|Vol 40: Maximum Dinobots
DefinitiveG1Collection v41.jpg|Vol 41: Drift
DefinitiveG1Collection v42.jpg|Vol 42: Revelation
DefinitiveG1Collection v43.jpg|Vol 43: All Hail Megatron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v44.jpg|Vol 44: All Hail Megatron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v45.jpg|Vol 45: Last Stand of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v46.jpg|Vol 46: Things Fall Apart
DefinitiveG1Collection v47.jpg|Vol 47: International Incident
DefinitiveG1Collection v48.jpg|Vol 48: Revenge of the Decepticons
DefinitiveG1Collection v49.jpg|Vol 49: The Iron Age
DefinitiveG1Collection v50.jpg|Vol 50: Heart of Darkness
DefinitiveG1Collection v51.jpg|Vol 51: Chaos Theory
DefinitiveG1Collection v52.jpg|Vol 52: The Death of Optimus Prime
DefinitiveG1Collection v53.jpg|Vol 53: Liars, A to D
DefinitiveG1Collection v54.jpg|Vol 54: A Better Tomorrow
DefinitiveG1Collection v55.jpg|Vol 55: Shadowplay
DefinitiveG1Collection v56.jpg|Vol 56: City On Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v57.jpg|Vol 57: Remain In Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v58.jpg|Vol 58: Shockpoint
DefinitiveG1Collection v59.jpg|Vol 59: Dark Cybertron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v60.jpg|Vol 60: Dark Cybertron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v61.jpg|Vol 61: World Shut Your Mouth
DefinitiveG1Collection v62.jpg|Vol 62: Earthfall
DefinitiveG1Collection v63.jpg|Vol 63: Elegant Chaos
DefinitiveG1Collection v64.jpg|Vol 64: Windblade
DefinitiveG1Collection v65.jpg|Vol 65: Combiner Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v66.jpg|Vol 66: Speak, Memory
DefinitiveG1Collection v67.jpg|Vol 67: Conquerors
DefinitiveG1Collection v68.jpg|Vol 68: Empire of Stone
DefinitiveG1Collection v69.jpg|Vol 69: Sins of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v70.jpg|Vol 70: Punishment
DefinitiveG1Collection v71.jpg|Vol 71: All Hail Optimus
DefinitiveG1Collection v72.jpg|Vol 72: The Dying of the Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v75.jpg|Vol 75: Titans Return, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v76.jpg|Vol 76: Titans Return, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v77.jpg|Vol 77: Dissolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v78.jpg|Vol 78: New Cybertron
DefinitiveG1Collection v79.jpg|Vol 79: Primeless
DefinitiveG1Collection v80.jpg|Vol 80: Requiem of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v81.jpg|Vol 81: Revolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v82.jpg|Vol 82: Revolutionaries
DefinitiveG1Collection v83.jpg|Vol 83: First Strike
DefinitiveG1Collection v84.jpg|Vol 84: The Falling Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v85.jpg|Vol 85: The Falling Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v86.jpg|Vol 86: The Everlasting Voices
DefinitiveG1Collection v87.jpg|Vol 87: Crucible
DefinitiveG1Collection v88.jpg|Vol 88: Unicron
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Miscellaneous" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v73.jpg|Vol 73: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v74.jpg|Vol 74: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v92.jpg|Vol 92: Transformers: The Movie
DefinitiveG1Collection v93.jpg|Vol 93: Beast Wars: The Gathering
DefinitiveG1Collection v94.jpg|Vol 94: Beast Wars: The Ascending
DefinitiveG1Collection v95.jpg|Vol 95: G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v96.jpg|Vol 96: G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v97.jpg|Vol 97: G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 3
</gallery>
<gallery caption="2019 IDW continuity" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v98.jpg|Vol 98: The World In Your Eyes


</gallery>

''[[:Category:Definitive G1 Collection covers|Extended cover gallery]]''</center>

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

==External links==
*[http://www.transformerscollection.com/ Official website]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Definitive G1 Collection}}
[[Category:Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics continuity comic compilations]]
[[Category:Dreamwave Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Generation 1 comic compilations]]

Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection

2020-10-08T10:41:55Z

YoungDoctor: /* Volumes */

[[File:Definitive G1 Collection in full.jpg|thumb|upright=3.05|4/5 of a grand tale.]]

'''Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection''' is a fortnightly 100-volume partwork from [[Hachette]], edited by [[Simon Furman]]. Partworks are a Hachette specialty: a series will be collected out of order (the first ''Definitive'' was volume 6) for commercial purposes but can be collected on your shelf in order with a fancy picture on the collective spines. The collection aims to republish every single "Generation 1" comic ever made, including the original [[Marvel Comics]] run—UK and US—in order for the very first time. Each issue has a special cover and bonus content, and [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)#Fantastic Free Gift.21|Fantastic FREE! Gifts]] are provided for subscribers. Marvel UK strips which were originally printed in black-and-white have been given brand new colours by [[John-Paul Bove]] using emulations of both 1980s American and latter-day Marvel UK techniques.<ref>"A Different Approach to Colour", Vol.16</ref>

The series was initially announced in September 2016 to contain 60 issues—ending with the ''Dark Cybertron'' crossover—but by the time of its launch in December, it had already been extended to 80 issues, with volume 80 providing some closure in the form of ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One| Till All Are One]]'' and ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers| Requiem of the Wreckers]]''. In 2018, upon the conclusion of IDW's first continuity, fans observed that it would take around ten extra volumes to reprint the entire IDW catalogue—and on the 18th of July 2019, Simon Furman confirmed on Twitter that the collection had been extended by ''twenty'' issues for a total of 100.

Sounds great, right?

Well... not if you live outside the [[United Kingdom]] and [[Ireland]]. The partwork was given a trial-run in parts of the UK before a national release started in early 2017. In August 2017, the subscription also became available in [[Australia]],<ref>[http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?s=438cea1ad48786466241053a45f743ae&t=24685 Ozformers Transformers Club of Australia]: UK Definitive Comic collection from Hachette now in Australia</ref> but became unavailable in July 2018 due to the closure of the Australian distributor. In January 2019, it became available in [[Poland]],<ref>[https://transformers-kolekcja.pl/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIrYTRuabz3wIVl-F3Ch2P7wirEAAYASAAEgJKLvD_BwE Polish version of official site]</ref> with volumes being released in proper chronological order.

Even for those who were able to subscribe, the partwork ended up not being quite as ''definitive'' as advertised, suffering from strange ordering and editorial choices, and from some major printing errors. Hachette's notoriously-bad customer service made it a nightmare to obtain corrected replacements.

==Volumes==
{{note|Each volume contains cover art from the original issues, plus a new introduction by Simon Furman. The bonus features below are in addition to these.}}
{| class="wikitable sortable"
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Vol.
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Issue
! scope="col" style="width: 125px;" | Title
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Contents
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Bonus Features
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Release date
|-
| 06
| 01
|Target: 2006
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Target: 2006|#78–83]] "[[Cybertron: The Middle Years!]]" Marvel UK [[Target: 2006|#84–88]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Aerialbots over America!|#21]]–[[Decepticon Graffiti!|23]]
| A guide to the launch of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' in the UK and its marketing purposes for Marvel UK, a "Meet... The [[Wrecker]]s" feature, a behind-the-scenes look at the development of "Target: 2006", and a spotlight on [[Geoff Senior]].
|[[December 30|30/12]]/[[2016]]
|-
| 36
| 02
| Stormbringer
| ''[[Spotlight: Shockwave]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Soundwave]]'' [[The Transformers: Stormbringer|''Stormbringer'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Nightbeat]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Hot Rod]]''
| An article on the beginning of IDW-verse production and several sketches by Figueroa.
|[[January 11|11/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 16
| 03
| The Primal Scream
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Cold Comfort and Joy!|#198]], [[The Fall and Rise of the Decepticon Empire.|#213]]–[[Survivors!|222]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Back from the Dead|#56]]–[[The Primal Scream|61]]
| An overview of the change in format of the UK series and the introduction of 5-page black-and-white strips, and an article by Bove on the colouring techniques used at Marvel UK and Marvel US in the 1980s, and how he emulated them for colourising the UK strips.
|[[January 27|27/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 18
| 04
| Edge of Extinction
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Rhythms of Darkness!|#67]]–[[On the Edge of Extinction!|75]]
| An overview of [[Unicron/Generation 1#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel's Unicron]] and a spotlight on [[Andrew Wildman]].
|[[February 8|08/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 29
| 05
| The War Within
| [[Transformers: The War Within|The War Within #1–6]] and [[The War Within Preview|preview]]
| Various character design sketches by [[Don Figueroa]] and an article on the making of ''The War Within''.
|[[February 22|22/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 37
| 06
| Escalation
| ''[[Spotlight: Sixshot]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Ultra Magnus]]'' [[The Transformers: Escalation|''Escalation'' #1–6]]
| Sketches by [[E. J. Su]], bios on [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|IDW Ultra Magnus]] & [[Sixshot (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Sixshot]], an article on creating the IDW ''Spotlights'', and an interview with Su. 
|[[March 8|08/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 08
| 07
| Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive!|#113]]–[[Fire on High!|120]] "[[Vicious Circle!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[King of the Hill!|#27]]–[[Mechanical Difficulties!|28]]
| An overview of the Marvel UK Annuals and a bio on [[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Goldbug]].
|[[March 22|22/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 39
| 08
| Hearts of Steel
| [[Hearts of Steel|''Hearts of Steel'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Galvatron]], [[Spotlight: Optimus Prime]], [[Spotlight: Mirage]]''
| Concept art by [[Guido Guidi]] and an article about the creation of ''Hearts of Steel''.
|[[April 5|05/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 10
| 09
| Trial by Fire
| [[The Transformers: Headmasters|Headmasters #1–4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Trial by Fire!|#38]]–[[The Desert Island of Space!|39]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Worlds Apart!|#130]]–[[Kup's Story!|132]]
| A retrospective on the [[The Transformers: Headmasters|''Headmasters'' miniseries]] and an overview of how Marvel UK handled toy marketing.
| [[April 19|19/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 21
| 10
| Regeneration One
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Counterpoint|#80.5]]–[[Loose Ends, Part 5|85]]
| A commentary on [[Loose Ends, Part 1|issue #81]] by Simon Furman, an overview on production leading up to ''Regeneration One'', and several cover sketches.
| [[May 3|03/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 31
| 11
| The Iron Fist
| [[Transformers/G.I. Joe|Transformers/G.I. Joe #1–6]]
| Various character design sketches by Figueroa and an overview of the many [[G.I. Joe crossovers]] across the comics.
| [[May 17|17/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 50
| 12
| Heart of Darkness
| [[The Transformers: Heart of Darkness|''Heart of Darkness'' #1–4]] [[Infestation (IDW)|''The Transformers: Infestation'' #1–2]]
| A post-mortem on "[[Zombie|Zombots]]" across the various comics and a bio on [[Hardhead (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Hardhead]].
| [[May 31|31/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 59
| 13
| Dark Cybertron, Part 1
| [[Dark Dawn: Dark Cybertron Chapter 1|''Dark Cybertron'' one-shot]] [[Little Victories|''More than Meets the Eye'' #22]]–[[No Exit: Dark Cybertron Chapter 6|25]] [[Winners & Losers: Dark Cybertron Chapter 3|''Robots in Disguise'' #23]]–[[Finest Hour: Dark Cybertron Chapter 5|24]]
| A bio on the [[Titan (group)|Titans]] and the making of ''Dark Cybertron'' with [[John Barber]] and James Roberts.
| [[June 14|14/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 01
| 14
| Power Play
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Transformers (issue)|#1]]–[[The Last Stand|4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Man of Iron (issue)|#9]]–[[Raiders of the Last Ark|21]]
| The alternate ending of [[The Last Stand|Marvel US #4]], unused artwork from [[The Transformers (issue)|issue #1]] by [[Frank Springer]], and an overview of how Marvel UK first approached The Transformers.
| [[June 28|28/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 26
| 15
| War and Peace
| ''[[War and Peace|Transformers: Generation 1 vol. 2]]'' #1–6 and [[Transformers Volume 2 Preview|preview]]
| Top 10 Easter eggs for "[[War and Peace]]" and scorecards listing each faction and their crew members during the arc.
| [[July 12|12/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 35
| 16
| Primacy
| [[The Transformers: Monstrosity|''Monstrosity'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Primacy|''Primacy'' #1–4]]
| An interview with [[Flint Dille]] about his work on the G1 cartoon and his involvement in the ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy|Autocracy]]'' trilogy.
| [[July 26|26/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 64
| 17
| Windblade
| [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 1 #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[Onyx Interface Part One: Signals, Calls, and Marches|#35]]–[[The Onyx Interface Conclusion: The Obliterati|38]]
| A bio for [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]], an overview of her conception, pictures of her ''[[Thrilling 30]]'' toy, and early design sketches by Hasbro.
| [[August 9|09/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 19
| 18
| Perchance to Dream
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Out to Lunch!|#240]]–[[...Perchance to Dream|260]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Still Life!|#76]]–[[Exodus!|77]]
| A Marvel UK ''Classic Heroes Competition!'' page, an overview of Furman's attempts to connect Marvel UK's black-and-white strips to the US stories and how he would eventually have to abandon doing so, an article on the "[[Two Megatrons!]]" confusion, and a bio on [[Thunderwing (G1)#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Thunderwing]].
| [[August 23|23/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 40
| 19
| Maximum Dinobots
| [[The Transformers: Maximum Dinobots|''Maximum Dinobots'' #1–5]] ''[[Spotlight: Grimlock]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Wheelie]]''
| Dinobot sketches by [[Nick Roche]] and [[Klaus Scherwinski]]'s ''Spotlight: Wheelie'' sketchbook.
| [[September 6|06/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 22
| 20
| Natural Selection
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Natural Selection, Part One|#86]]–[[Natural Selection, Part Five|90]] "[[Peace]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]])
| An overview of the [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Marvel ''Generation 2'' comic]] and several cover sketches.
| [[September 20|20/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 46
| 21
| Things Fall Apart
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Things Fall Apart, Part 1: "New Arrivals, Old Encounters"|#2]]–[[Scrapper (issue)|8]]
| Character design sketches by Figueroa, an extract from ''[[Decepticomments]]'' from [[Things Fall Apart, Part 3: "Seasons in Flight"|''The Transformers'' #4]] by [[Mike Costa]], and a bio on [[Swindle (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Swindle]].
| [[October 4|04/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 07
| 22
| The Harder They Die
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Prey!|#96]]–[[Resurrection!|104]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Afterdeath!|#24]]–[[Funeral for a Friend!|26]]
| An analysis of [[the many deaths of Optimus Prime]] in Generation 1.
| [[October 18|18/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 33
| 23
| Megatron: Origin
| [[The Transformers: Megatron Origin|''Megatron: Origin'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Blurr]]'', ''[[Omega's Conundrum|Spotlight: Orion Pax]]''
| A discussion of the production stages on ''Megatron: Origin'' by [[Eric Holmes]].
| [[November 1|01/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 14
| 24
| Space Pirates
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Wrecking Havoc|#172–173]], [[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|#180]]–[[Dry Run!|189]] "[[Altered Image!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Man in the Machine!|#51]]
| How Marvel UK incorporated ''[[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|The Big Broadcast of 2006]]'' (US issue #43) into their timeline.
| [[November 15|15/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 43
| 25
| All Hail Megatron, Part 1
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #1–8]]
| An article on creating ''All Hail Megatron'', character design sketches by Guidi, and the series pitch by [[Shane McCarthy]].
| [[November 29|29/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 52
| 26
| The Death of Optimus Prime
| [[Chaos (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1 #24, 26, 28, 30, 31]] ''[[Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime|The Death of Optimus Prime]]''
| An interview with [[James Roberts]] on how he worked his way up to become an ongoing writer, and character design sketches by [[Livio Ramondelli]].
| [[December 13|13/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 44
| 27
| All Hail Megatron, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #9–16]]
| A ''Decepticon Roll Call'' with mini-bios, and trivia about ''All Hail Megatron'' [[All Hail Megatron issue 13|#13]]–[[All Hail Megatron issue 16|16]], pointing out notable plot points in the ''Coda'' issues.
| [[December 27|27/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 20
| 28
| End of the Road
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[A Savage Circle|#78]]–[[End of the Road! (US)|80]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Starting Over!|#261]]–[[End of the Road! (UK)|289]]
| Articles about the ends of the US and UK series, including discussion of "[[Another Time & Place]]," the final letters page from #80, and script pages from #80.
| [[January 10|10/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 72
| 29
| The Dying of the Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Dying of the Light: (1) How Bright Their Frail Deeds|#50]]–[[The Dying of the Light Part 6: Do Not Go Gentle|55]]
| The bonus story "[[No Guns, No Swords, No Briefcases]] and essential background material on the [[Decepticon Justice Division|DJD]]
| [[January 24|24/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 75
| 30
| Titans Return, Part 1
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[07:00:00|#1]]–[[The Line Between Us|4]] [[The Last Autobot|''Titans Return'' one-shot]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[White Light|#56]]–[[White Heat|57]] ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Ten to Midnight|#56]]–[[Last Light (issue)|57]]
| "Creating the IDW-Verse" — a two-page article on the beginning of ''More than Meets the Eye'' and ''Robots in Disguise''.
| [[February 7|07/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 60
| 31
| Dark Cybertron, Part 2
| [[The Dead Are Not Enough: Dark Cybertron Chapter 7|''Robots in Disguise'' #25]]–[[Black Planet: Dark Cybertron Chapter 11|27]] [[Burning Bright: Dark Cybertron Chapter 8|''More than Meets the Eye'' #26]]–[[The Becoming: Dark Cybertron Chapter 10|27]] [[...And the Damage Done: Dark Cybertron Finale|''Dark Cybertron: Finale'' one-shot]]
| A blow-by-blow account of Dark Cybertron's hidden secrets
| [[February 21|21/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 71
| 32
| All Hail Optimus
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[All Hail Optimus Part 1: Once Upon a Time on Earth|#50]]–[[All Hail Optimus Part 6: No Fair Fights|55]]
| Background material on the [[Council of Worlds]]
| [[March 7|07/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 02
| 33
| New Order
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The New Order|#5]]–[[Repeat Performance!|8]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Decepticon Dam-Busters!|#29]]–[[The Wrath of Grimlock!|32]] Marvel US [[DIS-Integrated Circuits!|#9]]–[[The Next Best Thing to Being There!|10]] "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1995]])
| Insights into Marvel UK's efforts to ease the transition between the US and UK material
| [[March 21|21/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 03
| 34
| Dinobot Hunt
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Christmas Breaker!|#41]]–[[Dinobot Hunt!|50]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Brainstorm!|#11]]–[[Prime Time!|12]]
| A look at the UK [[Christmas]] story tradition
| [[April 4|04/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 23
| 35
| Destiny
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Destiny, Part One|#91]]–[[Destiny, Part Five|95]], [[Less Than Zero|#0]] "[[Destiny of the Dinobots!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| A feature on Regeneration One issue #0 and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[April 18|18/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 30
| 36
| War Within: The Dark Ages
| [[Transformers: War Within: The Dark Ages|''War Within: The Dark Ages'' #1–6]]
| Synopsis of ''[[Transformers: War Within: The Age of Wrath|War Within: the Age of Wrath]]'', including art from unfinished issues.
| [[May 2|02/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 45
| 37
| Last Stand of the Wreckers
| [[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|''Last Stand of the Wreckers'' #1–5]] ''[[Ride-Along|Spotlight: Prowl]]'' [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[...For All Mankind|#1]]
| Interview with [[Nick Roche]], pre-production sketches and story drafts
| [[May 16|16/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 49
| 38
| The Iron Age
| [[The Transformers: Ironhide|''Ironhide'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Space Opera Part 1: The Stars My Destination|#19]]–[[Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix|21 ("Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix" only)]].
| Casey Coller's ''Ironhide'' sketchbook
| [[May 30|30/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 11
| 39
| The Legacy of Unicron
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Headhunt|#133–134]] "[[What's in a Name?]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) Marvel UK [[Grudge Match!|#135]]–[[Ladies' Night (issue)|138]], [[The Legacy of Unicron!|#146–151]] "[[Ark Duty]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Pretender to the Throne!|#40]]–[[Totaled!|41]]
| A feature on the origins of the origin of the Transformers
| [[June 13|13/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 17
| 40
| Matrix Quest
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Bird of Prey!|#62]]–[[All Fall Down|66]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Aspects of Evil!|#223]]–[[A Savage Place!|239]] "[[The Chain Gang!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| Features on the stories behind "Matrix Quest" and, Marvel UK's crossover "[[Deathbringer (Marvel)|Deathbringer]]" saga
| [[June 27|27/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 73
| 41
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 1
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[The Golden Boys|#0]]–[[Headmasters (issue)|7]]
| A creator commentary on issue #0 and an exclusive interview with [[Tom Scioli]]
| [[July 11|11/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 76
| 42
| Titans Return, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]] [[Ping|#5]]–[[If I Know You|11]]
| Article on ''[[Revolution]]''
| [[July 25|25/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 62
| 43
| Earthfall
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Earthfall Part 1: Hello Cruel World|#28]]–[[The Crucible|34]]
| The lowdown on the (new) human cast and rare promotional posters for the [[Dawn of the Autobots]] event
| [[August 8|08/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 04
| 44
| Second Generation
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Shooting Star!|#13]]–[[Plight of the Bumblebee!|16]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Robot Buster!|#59]]–[[Second Generation!|65]] "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]])
| The story behind Marvel UK's Special Teams promotion
| [[August 22|22/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 32
| 45
| Infiltration
| [[The Transformers: Infiltration|''Infiltration'' #0–6]]
| An article on "Creating the IDW-Verse: From the Ground Up", "The Pitch" - Furman's original pitch to IDW for Infiltration, and some sketches by [[E. J. Su]].
| [[September 5|05/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 24
| 46
| The War to End All Wars
| ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]]'' [[The War to End All Wars, Part 1|#96]]–[[The War to End All Wars, Part 5|100]]
| the prose story "[[King of Shadows]]" and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[September 19|19/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 28
| 47
| Worlds Collide Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Worlds Collide|#14]]–[[The_End|18]] [[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye#Issue .238|Dreamwave's ''More than Meets the Eye'' #8]]
| A brief overview of Dreamwave's [[Transformers: Energon (comic)|Energon comic]] and a bonus glossary section dedicated entirely to background material from the Dreamwave G1-verse
| [[October 3|03/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 42
| 48
| Revelation
| ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]: [[Spotlight: Arcee|Arcee]], [[Spotlight: Cyclonus|Cyclonus]], [[Spotlight: Hardhead|Hardhead]], [[Spotlight: Doubledealer|Doubledealer]], [[Spotlight: Sideswipe|Sideswipe]], [[Spotlight: Jazz|Jazz]], [[Spotlight: Metroplex|Metroplex]]''
| "-Ations" retrospective, sketchbook art from Alex Milne and E. J. Su reprinted from individual ''Spotlights''
| [[October 17|17/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 65
| 49
| Combiner Wars
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[First Contact (IDW)|#39]]–[[Now and On Earth|42]] [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2 #1–4]]
| An article on the [[Prime Wars Trilogy]]
| [[October 31|31/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 79
| 50
| Primeless
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Life of Sideswipe|#9]]–[[Primeless, Part 2|12]] ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light|Lost Light]]'' [[Chasing the Infinite|#9]]–[[The Plotters' Club (Part 3): Journey's End|12]]
| A one-page editorial by Simon Furman that mentions the IDW universe's impending end
| [[November 14|14/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 12
| 51
| Cosmic Carnival
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Enemy Action!|#152–153]], [[Salvage!|#160–161]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[People Power!|#42]], [[The Cosmic Carnival|44]]–[[Ca$h and Car-nage!|46]] Marvel UK [[Stargazing|#145]]
| A behind-the-scenes look at the UK-only return of Megatron
| [[November 28|28/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 25
| 52
| Prime Directive
| [[Prime Directive|''Tranformers: Generation 1'' vol. 1 #1–6]] (plus [[Prime Directive Preview|Preview]])
| A two-page article on 'the in-between years' covering the time when no-one had the ''Transformers'' licence for comics.
| [[December 12|12/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 53
| 53
| Liars, A to D
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Liars, A to D Part 1: How to Say Goodbye and Mean It|#1]]–[[Interiors|6]], ''[[The Reluctant Specialist|Spotlight: Trailcutter]]'' and ''[[The Waiting Game|Spotlight: Hoist]]''
| An all-new interview with James Roberts, rare archive material from the dawn of MTMTE, Alex Milne's sketchbook.
| [[December 26|26/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 55
| 54
| Shadowplay
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Rules of Disengagement (issue)|#7]]–[[More than Meets the Eye issue 13|13]], plus the [[Primus: You, Me, and Other Revelations|2012 Annual]]
| The second of a new three-part interview with Roberts, early pages of scripts, and design sketches from Alex Milne.
| [[January 9|09/01]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 13
| 55
| City of Fear
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[City of Fear!|#164]]–[[Deadly Games!|171]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Club Con!|#47]]–[[Dark Star|50]] "[[Dreadwing Down!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]]) "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1985]])
| A behind-the scenes look at a sea change moment for the US comic (Furman's takeover as head writer) and a [[Bob Budiansky]] sketchbook.
| [[January 23|23/01]]/2019
|-
| 41
| 56
| Drift
| [[The Transformers: Drift|''The Transformers: Drift'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlight:]] ''[[Spotlight: Drift|Drift]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Blaster]]''
| An article on creating Drift and some design sketches by [[Guido Guidi]].
| [[February 6|06/02]]/2019
|-
| 74
| 57
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[Pax Megatronus|#8]]–[[The War Never Ends|13]]
| No extras, but still has the cover art and intro from Furman present on all issues.
| [[February 20|20/02]]/2019
|-
| 47
| 58
| International Incident
| [[The Transformers: Bumblebee|''The Transformers: Bumblebee'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[International Incident Part 1: "The Land Ironclads"|#9]]–[[International Incident Part 4: "All My Sins Remembered"|12]]
| An interview with [[Zander Cannon]] and breakdowns for pages 1–4 of each issue of the ''Bumblebee'' mini-series.
| [[March 6|06/03]]/2019
|-
| 05
| 59
| The Smelting Pool
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Smelting Pool!|#17]]–[[Showdown!|20]] "[[Victory!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[In the National Interest|#74–77]]
|Background material on the [[Cybertron (planet)|planet Cybertron]] with map.
| [[March 20|20/03]]/2019
|-
| 54
| 60
| A Better Tomorrow
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[The Autonomy Lesson (issue)|#1]]–[[Interference Patterns|7]]
| A new interview with [[John Barber]]
| [[April 3|03/04]]/2019
|-
| 48
| 61
| Revenge of the Decepticons
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Heart Like a Wheel|#13]]–[[Revenge of the Decepticons Part 5: Enemy Mine|18]] ''[[Spotlight: Megatron]]''
| A ''Spotlight: Megatron'' sketchbook
| [[April 17|17/04]]/2019
|-
| 15
| 62
| Time Wars
| "[[All in the Minds!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Time Wars|#199–205]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Guess Who the Mecannibals Are Having for Dinner?|#52]]–[[The Interplanetary Wrestling Championship!|55]]
| A behind-the-scenes look at Galvatron's storyline
| [[May 1|01/05]]/2019
|-
| 58
| 63
| Shockpoint
|[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]] #[[Plan for Everything|15]]–[[Soundwaves (issue)|22]]
| A 2-page history of IDW Shockwave's history-setting plans.
| [[May 15|15/05]]/2019
|-
| 80
| 64
| Requiem of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[Your First Mistake|#12]] [[The Chosen One|''Till Are Are One'' Annual]] [[Ghost Stories|2017 ''Transformers'' Annual]] ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers|Requiem of the Wreckers]]''
| Wreckers sketchbook and notebook material from [[Nick Roche]].
| [[May 29|29/05]]/2019
|-
| 63
| 65
| Elegant Chaos
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Custom-Made Now - An Elegant Chaos Prologue|#35]]–[[The Frail Gaze|42]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[June 12|12/06]]/2019
|-
| 09
| 66
| Toy Soldiers
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Ancient Relics!|#125 and ''Action Force'' #24–27]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Crater Critters|#29]]–[[Used Autobots|32]], [[Child%27s_Play_(issue)|#35]]–[[Toy Soldiers!|37]]
| A one-page behind-the-scenes feature on "[[Man of Iron (issue)|Man of Iron]]" and how it got reprinted in the US comic.
| [[June 26|26/06]]/2019
|-
| 78
| 67
| New Cybertron
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[New Cybertron Part 1: To Walk Among the Chosen|#1]]–[[What It's Really Like|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Kei Zama]]
| [[July 10|10/07]]/2019
|-
| 67
| 68
| Conquerors
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[South of Heaven|#43]]–[[Conquerors Part 4: Perihelion|49]] ''[[An Uneventful Night|Combiner Hunters]]'' one-shot
| Development art by [[Andrew Griffith]]
| [[July 24|24/07]]/2019
|-
| 38
| 69
| Devastation
| ''[[The Transformers: Devastation]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]'' for [[Spotlight: Kup|Kup]], [[Spotlight: Ramjet|Ramjet]] and [[Spotlight: Cliffjumper|Cliffjumper]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 7|07/08]]/2019
|-
| 57
| 70
| Remain in Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Remembrance Day|#14]]–[[Remain in Light 5 of 5: This Calamitous Life|21]] Prose stories "[[Signal to Noise]]" and "[[The Sound of Breaking Glass]]"
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 21|21/08]]/2019
|-
| 77
| 71
| Dissolution
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Dissolution Part 1: Some Other Cybertron|#1]]–[[An Axe to Break the Ice|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Jack Lawrence]]
| [[September 4|04/09]]/2019
|-
| 69
| 72
| Sins of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Sins of the Wreckers|Sins of the Wreckers]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers Holiday Special]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[September 18|18/09]]/2019
|-
| 56
| 73
| City On Fire
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Dinobot Hunt (IDW)|#8]]–[[Before the Dawn|14]] [[Primus: All Good Things|2012 Annual]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[October 2|02/10]]/2019
|-
| 34
| 74
| Autocracy
| ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy]]'' miniseries ''[[The Hunting Party (IDW)|Spotlight: Thundercracker]]''
| A one-page article on ''Autocracy'', including an interview with co-writer [[Chris Metzen]].
| [[October 16|16/10]]/2019
|-
| 70
| 75
| Punishment
| ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Redemption]]'' one-shot ''[[The Transformers: Salvation]]'' one-shot
| An article about the Motion Book Tool app used for the digital version of ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'', a "Brief History of the (IDW) Dinobots", and a [[Livio Ramondelli]] sketchbook.
| [[October 30|30/10]]/2019
|-
| 27
| 76
| Worlds Collide Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_8|#8]]–[[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_13|13]] [[More_than_Meets_the_Eye:_Transformers:_Armada|''More than Meets the Eye: Armada'' ]] (select material)
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 13|13/11]]/2019
|-
| 68
| 77
| Empire of Stone
| ''[[The Transformers: Drift - Empire of Stone|Drift - Empire of Stone]]'' miniseries [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2]] issues 5–7
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 27|27/11]]/2019
|-
| 51
| 78
| Chaos Theory
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Police Action: Prologue|#21 ("Police Action: Prologue" only)]], [[Chaos Theory Part 1|#22–23]], [[Police Action: Part 1|25]], [[Police Action Part 2: Only Forward|27]], [[Police Action Part 3: A Second Chance at Eden|29]] [[The Question|Spotlight: Bumblebee]]
| A one-page article exploring the origins of the "[[Chaos (IDW)|Chaos]]" arc and beyond.
| [[December 11|11/12]]/2019
|-
| 66
| 79
| Speak, Memory
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The One Where They Go to Earth|#43]]–[[Speak, Memory! (Part 2)|49]]
| A one-page article about the [[Scavenger (group)|Scavengers]].
| [[December 25|25/12]]/2019
|-
| 61
| 80
| World, Shut Your Mouth
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[World, Shut Your Mouth Part 1: Towards Peace|#28]]–[[Births, Deaths, and Interventions|34]]
| A page of "Season 2" character posters.
| [[January 8|08/01]]/[[2020]]
|-
| 84
| 81
| The Falling: Part 1
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Dead Come Home, Part 1 (of 2)|#13]]–[[The Falling, Chapter 3: The Ground|17]] ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[Starscream: The Movie (comic)|Annual 2018]]
| A one-page article about the Primes.
| [[January 22|22/01]]/2020
|-
| 90
| 82
| Generation 2: Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[Ghosts|#0]]–[[The Gathering Darkness|6]]
| An article about [[Fleetway]]'s [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Fleetway)|UK ''Generation 2'' comic]], including [small-scale scans of] "[[War Without End (issue)|War Without End]]", their first UK-original ''G2'' strip.
| [[February 5|05/02]]/2020
|-
| 81
| 83
| Revolution
| ''[[Revolution]]'' [[Secret Raiders: A Revolution Prelude|#0]]–[[Valley Forge|5]] ''[[Thundercracker & Buster Save the World|The Transformers]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Informed|Till All Are One]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Nothing Will Ever Be the Same Again!|More than Meets the Eye]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro.
| [[February 19|19/02]]/2020
|-
| 89
| 84
| Realignments
| ''[[G.I. Joe and the Transformers (comic)|G.I. Joe and the Transformers]]'' [[Blood on the Tracks|#1]]–[[...All Fall Down!|4]] [[G.I. Joe (comic)|Marvel's ''G.I. Joe'']] [[Unfoldings!|#138]]–[[Final Transformations|142]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[March 4|04/03]]/2020
|-
| 82
| 85
| Revolutionaries
| ''[[Revolutionaries]]'' [[Crisis Intervention|#1]]–[[Ghost in the Machine (IDW)|8]]
| A two-page timeline of major IDW continuity events from issue #1, and the character profiles also from issue #1.
| [[March 18|18/03]]/2020
|-
| 92
| 86
| Transformers: The Movie
| [[Transformers: The Movie (Marvel comic)|Marvel's adaption]] of [[The Transformers: The Movie|the 1986 animated movie]] [[Transformers: The Animated Movie|IDW's adaption]] of that same movie
| A one-page article about the movie-verse in comics.
| [[April 1|01/04]]/2020
|-
| 83
| 87
| First Strike
| ''[[First Strike]]'' [[First Strike issue 0|#0]]–[[First Strike issue 6|6]] [[Unification Day: Dusk|First Strike: Transformers]] one-shot [[Unification Day: Dawn|First Strike: Optimus Prime]] one-shot
| A one-page "Prelude to...Unicron!" article, preceding the reprint of "[[First Strike issue 6#Coda: "The Signal"|The Signal]]".
| [[April 22|22/04]]/2020
|-
| 95
| 88
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 1
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers'' #1–6]]
| A one-page article about Devil's Due, a two-page article about creating the "Devil's Due-verse" and three pages of [[Mike S. Miller]]'s sketchbook art.
| [[May 13|13/05]]/2020
|-
| 85
| 89
| The Falling, Part 2
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Falling, Interlude: The First Who Was Named|#18]]–[[A Sunrise Dark|24]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[June 3|03/06]]/2020
|-
| 93
| 90
| Beast Wars: The Gathering
| [[Transformers, Beast Wars: The Gathering|''Beast Wars: The Gathering'' #1–4]]
and material from [[Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook]]
| An introduction by [[Ben Yee]], a 2-page "Unleash the Beast Wars" feature detailing the origins of the show and toyline, a 3-page "Creating the BW-Verse" interview with [[Bob Forward]], a 2-page "The (G1) roots of the Beast Wars" feature detailing the G1 elements in the show, 4 pages of [[Don Figueroa]]'s design sketches, and a reprint of the "[[Optimus Primal vs Megatron!]]" toy pack-in comic.
| [[June 17|17/06]]/2020
|-
| 86
| 91
| The Everlasting Voices
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Sardines|#13]]–[[The Everlasting Voices (3): You Are Here|18]]
| The first half of ''[[Transformers: Historia]]'' (up to ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'', including the [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]] profile, which was itself copied from the ''[[Hasbro Heroes Sourcebook]]''.
| [[July 1|01/07]]/2020
|-
| 96
| 92
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 2
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II'' #1–4]] [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War'' #1–2]]
| A two-page sketchbook of [[Don Figueroa]]'s original pencils for the the first 8 pages of ''The Art of War''.
| [[July 15|15/07]]/2020
|-
| 87
| 93
| Crucible
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Crucible (Part 1): A Dance Before Dying|#19]]–[[Crucible (Part 6): A Spark Among Embers|24]]
| The second half of ''[[Transformers: Historia]]'' including the [[Optimus Prime (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Optimus Prime]] profile.
| [[July 29|29/07]]/2020
|-
| 91
| 94
| Generation 2, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[New Dawn|#7]]–[[A Rage in Heaven!|12]]
| A profile on [[Derek Yaniger]], a outro by Simon Furman including [small-scale scans of] "[[War Zone|War Zone]]", their second UK-original ''G2'' strip.
| [[August 12|12/08]]/2020
|-
| 88
| 95
| Unicron
| ''[[Transformers: Unicron]]'' [[Our Darkest|#0]]–[[Ceremony|6]] ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[Post|#25]] ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[How To Say Goodbye And Mean It: Part 2|25]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 26|26/08]]/2020
|-
| 94
| 96
| Beast Wars: The Ascending
| [[Transformers: Beast Wars: The Ascending|''Beast Wars: The Ascending'' #1–4]] and material from [[Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook]]
| A 7-page Beast Wars Glossary (from the ''Sourcebook'' trade) and a 5-page Behind the Scenes proposal of Furman's planned third Beast Wars miniseries to be titled ''The Revisiting''.
| [[September 9|09/09]]/2020
|-
| 97
| 97
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 3
| [[Devil's Due Press|DDP]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War'' #3–5]] [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: Black Horizon|''G.I. Joe vs, the Transformers: Black Horizon'' #1–2]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[September 23|23/09]]/2020
|-
| 98
| 98
| The World In Your Eyes
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The World In Your Eyes Part One|#1]]–[[The Cracks Beneath Your Feet Part One|#7]]
| A Q&A with writer Brian Ruckley
| [[October 7|07/10]]/2020
|-
| 99
| 99
| The Cracks Beneath Your Feet
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The Cracks Beneath Your Feet Part Two|#8]]–[[Nautica: Home|12]] (assumed)
|
| [[October 21|21/10]]/2020
|-
| 100
| 100
| Constructicons Rising
| ''[[Transformers: Galaxies]]'' [[Constructicons Rising, Part 1|#1]]–[[Wannabee, Part 2|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[November 4|04/11]]/2020
|}

==Curation==
Although this collection was curated by Simon Furman, the man directly responsible for many of the stories it contains, many of the decisions it makes seem to be far from ideal.

Presumably as a result of these being the master copies in Hasbro's possession, Marvel US reprints are drawn from IDW's ''[[The Transformers Classics]]'' 'remasters', complete with newly-introduced typos, haphazard attempts to 'fix' errors, washed-out linework, and less authentic coloring than John-Paul Bove's brand new efforts! In a similar vein, cover galleries include the covers for both the US and UK stories, but ''not'' the UK-exclusive covers for US stories. This focus on presenting the 'unmodified' versions of US comics means that many of the minor edits made to those stories for their original UK printings (to better jive with Furman's expanded continuity) are absent.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-9#post-14167234 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "In order to smooth over the continuity cracks between the UK and US stories, the US books were usually edited (US#16-24 were especially affected) for their UK printing. But rather than the UK edits of the American stories, we get the familiar US versions. <nowiki>[...]</nowiki> Oh, and on page 214, there's a factual error as well, when it states that Transformers UK sold 200,000 copies per week. That's actually completely false. It actually sold 100,000 copies per week at its peak. That said, each individual comic sold would tend to be read by a number of people, as kids lent or gave their comics to siblings or school friends. It was calculated that, on average, each comic sold would be read by two-point-five people. Marvel (and other comic publishers such as Fleetway or IPC) would therefore take the ''actual'' circulation figures and apply this 2.5 multiplier to give a total readership that did exceed two hundred thousand on occasion. So whilst the ''readership'' was arguably 250K-plus, the actual ''number of copies'' sold was nowhere near that figure.</ref>

===Reading order===
The actual ordering of the Marvel material is far from straightforward, for various reasons:
*The two Furman-penned comics from [[Transformers Annual 1985|the 1995 annual]] don't have a particular place in the continuity: "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" is a standalone flashback that isn't referenced until UK #44, while "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" is a non-canonical present-day story written to promote toys that weren't appearing in the comic at the time. Presumably for reasons of space, they're included as backmatter in volumes 2 and 13; the latter consists mostly of stories released three years later!
*Volume 3 presents UK #41-50 before US #11-12, when they should be the other way around. Apparently this was a deliberate decision to place focus on the UK story the volume was centred around!<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/315915/thread Facebook post quoted by Andy Turnbull on the Transmasters UK forums]: "While we make every effort to maintain the original flow and continuity of the Marvel UK/US TRANSFORMERS stories, the self-contained identity and integrity of each individual volume is of paramount importance, especially as the collections aren’t released in chronological order. So, in a heavily UK-centric volume titled Dinobot Hunt, we took the decision to lead with the main/bulk of 'Dinobot Hunt' (and preceding issues) itself. Both UK and US strips are prefaced with a dedicated Story So Far to ease readers into the respective narratives, so they can be enjoyed together or in and of themselves. Naturally, we regret any inherent ‘spoilers’, but our policy is to create coherent and self-supportive volumes that anyone, casual reader or long-time fan, can pick up and enjoy."</ref>
*The minor Marvel productions "[[The Night the Transformers Saved Christmas]]" and "[[The Special Teams Have Arrived]]" are absent—but of course, the latter was completely retold in UK #63-65, included here in volume 4.
*The two comic stories from [[Transformers Annual 1986|the 1986 annual]] aren't directly connected to specific issues; "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" doesn't really fit into continuity, but certainly takes place after UK #65—which is where the partwork puts it—while "[[Victory!]]" (which explains what happened to the Dinobots between UK #50 and #65) is placed before UK #74-77, another Dinobot-centric story.
*"[[The Gift]]", UK #93's seasonal story by [[James Hill]], is omitted; it should be placed in volume 6 between US #22 and US #23.
*Volume 8 reshuffles things slightly relative to publication order; US #27 was originally published before UK #113-120, but is moved afterwards. As the stories aren't connected, this doesn't really affect anything.
*The stories from [[Transformers Annual 1987|the 1987 annual]] are scattered. "[[Vicious Circle!]]" is placed in volume 8 alongside UK #113-120, collectively forming the first "post-movie" storyline. "What's In a Name?" is placed in volume 11 directly before UK #135-136, which developed its premise further. "[[Ark Duty]]" is also thrown into volume 11, after UK #146-151... despite chronologically taking place some time before that story.
*In a move that actually ''improves'' readability, the ''[[Action Force (comic)|Action Force]]'' crossover "[[Ancient Relics!]]" (which originally interrupted the unrelated two-part story told across US #29-30) is moved before #29.
*[[Worlds Apart!|UK #130-131]] was written as an introduction to the Headmaster concept to UK audiences; it's recontextualised here as a flashback, letting the ''[[The Transformers: Headmasters| Headmasters]]'' miniseries lead directly into [[Trial by Fire!|US #38]]. Keeping UK-original strips in publication order however then causes trouble with [[Ladies' Night (issue)|UK #137-138]], which set up the Combaticons' appearance in... [[Used Autobots|US #32]], and [[Enemy Action!|UK #152-153]], which takes place before the launch of [[Club Con]] in [[The Desert Island of Space!|US #39]].
*[[Stargazing|UK #145]], a fairly standalone Christmas story, is thrown in at the end of volume 12.
*When Furman took over the US comic, the UK strips (having switched to black-and-white) generally stopped tying directly into the US material. Exceptions included [[Race with the Devil|UK #215-218]] setting up [[Back from the Dead|US #56]], Thunderwing's rise to power across [[The Big Shutdown!|UK #230-231]] and [[Rage!|#241]]-[[Assault on the Ark!|242]] paying off in [[Yesterday's Heroes!|US #60]], [[Out to Lunch!|UK #240]] following on from [[Skin Deep|US #59]], [[Mind Games|UK #243]]-[[Two Megatrons!|244]] further explaining Megatron's appearance in US #56-59, [[Whose Lifeforce Is It Anyway?|UK #249]] being nodded to in [[Bird of Prey!|US #62]], and the events of [[Deathbringer (issue)|UK #235-236]] being directly referenced in [[Dark Creation|US #65]]. This collection includes these comics in clumps during breaks in the action, ignoring most of this connective tissue.
*Starting with [[...Perchance to Dream|UK #255]] (as noted on the [[Earthforce]] page), the UK material effectively diverged into an entire alternate timeline; most of these stories are placed together at the end of volume 20.

The ordering of IDW's comics, meanwhile, can only be described as impenetrable to a new reader. As ''Infiltration'' was the starting point for that continuity, it is presented as the first volume, but in a stab towards chronological ordering the next volumes are devoted to prequels such as ''[[Megatron: Origin]]'' and ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy| Autocracy]]'', which were released well after the fact and don't really mesh well here. Even Furman's own work isn't safe: ''[[The Transformers: Maximum Dinobots| Maximum Dinobots]]'' is placed before ''[[Revelation (IDW)|Revelation]]'', and the other ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight| Spotlight]]'' issues are thrown in haphazardly wherever space allows. How much of the material following his run Furman has actually read, only he can say.

===Omissions===
It's apparent that when the partwork was planned out, Hatchette intended to be the first company to reprint the latter-day [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] material such as [[Transformers: Generation 1 (Dreamwave)|the Sunstorm arc]], ''[[Transformers: Micromasters|Micromasters]]'', and the ''[[20th Anniversary Transformers Summer Special|Summer Special]]''<ref>[https://simonfurman.wordpress.com/2017/01/ Simon Furman on WordPress]: "all the Dreamwave G1 material that saw print in single-issue form will be collected, including the rare Summer Special story, Welcome to the Jungle, and their ongoing G1 series"</ref> in volumes 27 and 28—but those volumes wound up containing issues from Dreamwave's ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)| Armada]]'' comic, which merely guest-starred G1 characters and seem very out of place in a "Definitive ''G1'' Collection" (unsurprisingly, the rest of the ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)| Armada]]'' and ''[[Transformers: Energon (comic)| Energon]]'' material is omitted). Presumably, this late change occurred for the same reason those stories have never been reprinted in the first place—nobody's sure whether the creative teams were actually ''paid'' for their work. A summary of ''[[Transformers: War Within: The Age of Wrath|The Age of Wrath]]'' was included, but none of the finished issues of that series or of ''[[Transformers/G.I. Joe: Divided Front]]'' were reprinted.

Many of the collection's other omissions can easily be considered editorial choices:
*The prose stories from Marvel UK's annuals are omitted, although it bears mentioning that most of them were written by authors other than Furman and are tricky to reconcile with the continuity proper anyway. Furman's stories are more conspicuous by their absence: "[[The Magnificent Six!]]" from the 1991 annual was part of the Earthforce storyline, and the 1992 annual's "[[Another Time & Place]]" was effectively the original coda to his Marvel run. UK #302's "[[Dreadwind's Xmas!]]" is absent too, notable for focusing on Dreadwind's time [[Letters page (Marvel UK)|answering letters]] for Marvel UK.
*At most, only small extracts are given of the various profile books released over the years: Marvel's ''[[The Transformers Universe]]'', Dreamwave's ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye| More than Meets the Eye]]'', and IDW's ''[[Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook| Beast Wars Sourcebook]]'' and ''[[Hasbro Heroes Sourcebook]]''.
*None of the material released by [[3H Productions]] or [[Fun Publications]] was printed in this collection.
*Minor pack-in comics like [[Milton Bradley]]'s "[[In the Transformers]]", [[Metrodome]]'s "[[The Beast Within]]", Madman Entertainment's "[[The Transformers (Madman)|The Transformers]]" and IDW's "[[Rodimus vs. Cyclonus]]" are understandably left out.
*IDW's non-''G.I. Joe'' crossover miniseries are all omitted: ''[[New Avengers/Transformers]]'', ''[[Aw Yeah Revolution!]]'', ''[[Rom vs. Transformers: Shining Armor]]'', ''[[Transformers vs. Visionaries]]'', ''[[Angry Birds Transformers (comic)|Angry Birds Transformers]]'', ''[[Star Trek vs. Transformers]]'', and ''[[Transformers/Ghostbusters]]''. So too are most of the tie-ins to their once-annual multi-property events: ''[[Infestation 2]]'', ''[[Mars Attacks: The Transformers|Mars Attacks]]'', ''[[The X-Files: Conspiracy: The Transformers|The X-Files: Conspiracy]]'', and ''[[Transformers: Deviations| Deviations]]''.

Less forgivable is the omission of "[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe: The Movie Adaptation]]", and that of the four-page "[[Black Cybertron]]" prose story from [[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe issue 10|issue #10]]. The various prose stories, profiles and comics first printed with the collected editions of ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'' are also absent.

==Coloring==
Colorist John-Paul Bove, known for his work on ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One| Regeneration One]]'', was hired by Hatchette to give color to black-and-white UK-original stories. The first of these was "[[Raiders of the Last Ark]]", included in volume 1. Like many of the earliest UK strips, only some of its instalments were printed in color, but this was the only story not to be later colourised in a reprint at the time. For this collection, Bove colored the entire comic in a style as close to the original marker-pens as possible, with the only edits being to correct an error and to put [[Guardian (Marvel)|Guardian]]'s colors in line with the character's later appearances.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/282848/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "Raiders has been coloured to match as closely as possible the original. As far as I can tell the original was coloured in marker pen! This involved some exceptionally detailed hi res scans and taking the texture and colour choices from the original (including a Megs with a lot of gold!). There were two changes made to the originals, one was a colouring error pointed out by Mike Collins himself that affected the linework (see if you can spot it) that I corrected and the other was that the Guardian colours were changed to match all subsequent appearances. When he is taken down he is left a solid colour in that Yomtovy way of doing things."</ref>

For the black-and-white strips printed following the UK comic's format change in 1989, Bove colored the stories depending on whether their plots tied into the UK or the US continuity. He cites "[[Race with the Devil]]" (the first black-and-white story of this kind) and "[[Fallen Star!]]" as examples of US-relevant stories. Meanwhile stories like "[[Survivors]]" emulated the richer colour combinations employed by the UK teams.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/282848/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "As stated in the colour commentary in vol 3, the style of colouring for the strips depends entirely on the continuity it follows regardless of which country it originated in. So Race with the Devil and Fallen Star follow US continuity despite being a UK originated strip. So the colour ref will follow what was in the Underbase Saga and the stories containing the classic Pretenders (so background Soundwave is Magenta as Ed said). At a certain point along the way the UK was instructed to follow the US way of colouring, so the techniques becomes the same though the guys and gals in the UK were geniuses in making combinations to generate richer pallets. That's why Survivors etc has been done in a richer, denser style."</ref> "[[Aspects of Evil!]]" and the [[Earthforce]] stories were colored to look like they could've been rendered with inks and airbrushes.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/282848/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "For Aspects of Evil (coming soon!) the colouring style is not bound by continuity. I felt doing something like Regen would be too far removed from the time, but instead I have coloured it in a way that could have been rendered with inks and airbrush but that still feels modern without any computer trickery. It's a style based a little on contrast and is hopefully both bold and subtle."</ref>

In some cases, Bove made choices with regards to color schemes based on in-universe reasoning, most notably with [[Xaaron]] and [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] in volume 19.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/299016/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "With Xaaron I was pretty sure that his appearance here was chronologically the first we'd seen him so I decided to make him his UK colours and leave his all yellow look something he got shortly after. This was partly because his all yellow look was awful and there was enough wiggle room to do it. Soundwave on the other hand had appeared magenta before the events of Starscream's Pretender process and after so to change him to blue for this moment between other moments requires a bigger ask. There is a whole complicated reasoning that had to apply to Thunderwing precisely because he appears in different colours in between coloured appearances. I reasoned that he was burned then jumped into the sea which lead to one colour change, got repaired and recoloured when he got back to the ship and then got given a final upgrade when he got made leader. I spent forever working out a logic that would make sense of all the colour schemes he had that I had to jump between. There was definitely method to the madness and many, many hours were spent making it as consistent, justified and sympathetic as possible."</ref>

==Notes==
* The free gifts shipped to subscribers with the first five deliveries (each consisting of two isses - except the first, which included a third issue free) were:
** Autobot/Decepticon [[insignia]] keyrings!
** A wallet!
** A tin-plate version of the cover to "[[Dark Star]]", featuring a cosmically-empowered [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]]!
** A mug!
** A pair of metal Autobot/Decepticon insignia bookends!<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20170112033736/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* Before the partwork launched, the second free gift was advertised as an [[Insignia|Autobrand]] belt buckle.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20160914212214/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* The first issue collected "[[Target: 2006]]", and was coincidentally out at newsagents thirty years after the story originally ran.<ref>[http://thesolarpool.weebly.com/transformers-uk227.html Solar Pool]: "The Target: 2006 book is already out... if it doesn’t [finish], Target: 2006 was back on at least some newsagents shelves towards the end of its 30th anniversary week. How cool is that?"</ref>
* The printings of Marvel material aren't really identical to those released by IDW—for instance, issue 1 (volume 6 - confused yet?) includes various Marvel trademarks (such as the superheroes around the edge of the cover to "Heavy Traffic" and the kid wearing a Spider-Man t-shirt in "Decepticon Graffiti") which were painted out of IDW's reprints due to rights issues.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-10#post-14168736 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "The weird thing is, though, these '''aren't''' the IDW versions. The cover to Heavy Traffic has all the Marvel characters around the edge, and the little kid in Decepticon Graffiti is wearing his Spider-Man t-shirt. This stuff was painted out of the IDW trades due to rights issues with Marvel."</ref>

===Errors===
* When the website launched, it accidentally credited [[Andrew Wildman|Andrew ''Wlid''man]].
* Copies of the first issue provided to general retail and initial subscribers had an error on the spine, with the black volume number box at the top being the wrong size.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14249131 ultra badness on the TFW2005 forums]: "I just got an email from Hachette to say they had misprinted the spine art on issue 1. And hey will send a replacement. Hurrah! Im going to have 3 issues!"</ref> Subscribers received free corrected copies, while those who bought theirs at newsagents had to wait for replacements which were included with issue 7.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14256091 Magnus' Mate on TFW2005]: "Incidentally, the 'corrected' #1 will be available to non-subscribers as well, included free with issue #7!"</ref> Hachette were seen giving away error-stricken copies for free at a signing event at a London comic shop.<ref>[http://forums.millarworld.tv/t/the-trades-thread-hardcovers-graphic-novels-and-more/4923/2359 Millarworld forums (dead link)]</ref> This error shouldn't be confused with the change in spine art for the first four issues made between the limited trial run and the mass release,<ref>[http://www.facebook.com/TransformersG1Collection/posts/1533415153338562?comment_id=1533436356669775&reply_comment_id=1533593929987351 Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection on Facebook]</ref> which means that anyone who subscribed to the series from its trial will end up with ''three'' different copies of issue 1.
* The poster included with issue 1 includes a bio for [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]]... which uses an image of [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]].<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13983869 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "Also: the poster that comes with Volume 1 (Target: 2006) shows some small character bios but goofs up the "Jazz" bio by using a picture of Prowl."</ref>
* The trial versions of issues 1 and 2 had the inside cover art swapped: the "Target: 2006" book had artwork for ''Stormbringer'', and vice versa.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13989359 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "On anybody else's copies, is the inside cover art wrong? I've got Stormbringer art inside the Target:2006 book, and Target:2006 art inside the Stormbringer book."</ref>
* A feature in issue 1 states that the Marvel UK comic sold 200,000 copies per week, when really it only sold 100,000 per week ''at its peak''. This error presumably stems from the fact that Marvel (and other publishers at the time) multiplied their circulation figures by 2.5 to calculate their readership, as they estimated that many issues would be shared between friends and siblings.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>
* Hatchette's own masterings of the comics introduce yet more errors. In issue 1, for example, an instance of '[[Skids (G1)|]]' in dialogue is misspelled as 'Skips'.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14277882 Bass X0 on the TFW2005 forums]: "In Decepticon Graffiti, Skids is called Skips on the second page."</ref> This error was not present in IDW's original reprints.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-13#post-14316444 Magnus' Mate on the TFW2005 forums]: "Except the IDW "Transformers Classics" volume 2 with issue #23 in doesn't have this same problem - Skids is still Skids, not Skips! I know there are other problems with them, but this one is on Hachette."</ref>
* The bio for John Paul Bove included in issue 3 (volume 16) was apparently written by himself in the first person, then edited into the third person—one of the sentences written in first person remains!<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-8#post-14101771 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "There is also a half page bio on JP, which was obviously written by himself in the first person, and then edited to be the third person- but they missed one of the first person senetnces and it is still in there!"</ref>
* Some copies of volume 22 had a number erroneously printed on one of the pages.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-20#post-15179844 rodster6 on the TFW2005 forums]: "Got volume 7 today (which I think is issue 22) and there is a weird number printed randomly on one page that shouldn't be there."</ref>
* The first print run for volume 35 had an error where the last two pages of ''Monstrosity'' #11 were swapped with two from "War and Peace" #3.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-18#post-14880721 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "The last two pages of Monstrosity #11 have been swapped with the ones from W&P #3"</ref>
* Many volumes include pages which are stuck together, though this is easy enough for the reader to fix.
* Though some readers may try to convince you otherwise, [[Mister Johnson]] is not an error.

==Covers==
<center><gallery caption="Marvel (US & UK)" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v1.jpg|Vol 1: Power Play
DefinitiveG1Collection v2.jpg|Vol 2: New Order
DefinitiveG1Collection v3.jpg|Vol 3: Dinobot Hunt
DefinitiveG1Collection v4.jpg|Vol 4: Second Generation
DefinitiveG1Collection v5.jpg|Vol 5: The Smelting Pool
DefinitiveG1Collection v6.jpg|Vol 6: Target: 2006
DefinitiveG1Collection v7.jpg|Vol 7: The Harder They Die
DefinitiveG1Collection v8.jpg|Vol 8: Wanted: Galvatron - Dead or Alive
DefinitiveG1Collection v9.jpg|Vol 9: Toy Soldiers
DefinitiveG1Collection v10.jpg|Vol 10: Trial by Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v11.jpg|Vol 11: The Legacy of Unicron
DefinitiveG1Collection v12.jpg|Vol 12: Cosmic Carnival
DefinitiveG1Collection v13.jpg|Vol 13: City of Fear
DefinitiveG1Collection v14.jpg|Vol 14: Space Pirates
DefinitiveG1Collection v15.jpg|Vol 15: Time Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v16.jpg|Vol 16: The Primal Scream
DefinitiveG1Collection v17.jpg|Vol 17: Matrix Quest
DefinitiveG1Collection v18.jpg|Vol 18: Edge of Extinction
DefinitiveG1Collection v19.jpg|Vol 19: Perchance to Dream
DefinitiveG1Collection v20.jpg|Vol 20: End of the Road
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Marvel's Generation 2" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v89.jpg|Vol 89: Realignments
DefinitiveG1Collection v90.jpg|Vol 90: Generation 2 Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v91.jpg|Vol 91: Generation 2 Part 2
</gallery>
<gallery caption="IDW's Regeneration One" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v21.jpg|Vol 21: Regeneration One
DefinitiveG1Collection v22.jpg|Vol 22: Natural Selection
DefinitiveG1Collection v23.jpg|Vol 23: Destiny
DefinitiveG1Collection v24.jpg|Vol 24: The War to End All Wars
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Dreamwave Productions" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v25.jpg|Vol 25: Prime Directive
DefinitiveG1Collection v26.jpg|Vol 26: War and Peace
DefinitiveG1Collection v27.jpg|Vol 27: Worlds Collide Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v28.jpg|Vol 28: Worlds Collide Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v29.jpg|Vol 29: The War Within
DefinitiveG1Collection v30.jpg|Vol 30: War Within: The Dark Ages
DefinitiveG1Collection v31.jpg|Vol 31: The Iron Fist
</gallery>

<gallery caption="2005 IDW continuity" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v32.jpg|Vol 32: Infiltration
DefinitiveG1Collection v33.jpg|Vol 33: Megatron Origin
DefinitiveG1Collection v34.jpg|Vol 34: Autocracy
DefinitiveG1Collection v35.jpg|Vol 35: Primacy
DefinitiveG1Collection v36.jpg|Vol 36: Stormbringer
DefinitiveG1Collection v37.jpg|Vol 37: Escalation
DefinitiveG1Collection v38.jpg|Vol 38: Devastation
DefinitiveG1Collection v39.jpg|Vol 39: Hearts of Steel
DefinitiveG1Collection v40.jpg|Vol 40: Maximum Dinobots
DefinitiveG1Collection v41.jpg|Vol 41: Drift
DefinitiveG1Collection v42.jpg|Vol 42: Revelation
DefinitiveG1Collection v43.jpg|Vol 43: All Hail Megatron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v44.jpg|Vol 44: All Hail Megatron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v45.jpg|Vol 45: Last Stand of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v46.jpg|Vol 46: Things Fall Apart
DefinitiveG1Collection v47.jpg|Vol 47: International Incident
DefinitiveG1Collection v48.jpg|Vol 48: Revenge of the Decepticons
DefinitiveG1Collection v49.jpg|Vol 49: The Iron Age
DefinitiveG1Collection v50.jpg|Vol 50: Heart of Darkness
DefinitiveG1Collection v51.jpg|Vol 51: Chaos Theory
DefinitiveG1Collection v52.jpg|Vol 52: The Death of Optimus Prime
DefinitiveG1Collection v53.jpg|Vol 53: Liars, A to D
DefinitiveG1Collection v54.jpg|Vol 54: A Better Tomorrow
DefinitiveG1Collection v55.jpg|Vol 55: Shadowplay
DefinitiveG1Collection v56.jpg|Vol 56: City On Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v57.jpg|Vol 57: Remain In Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v58.jpg|Vol 58: Shockpoint
DefinitiveG1Collection v59.jpg|Vol 59: Dark Cybertron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v60.jpg|Vol 60: Dark Cybertron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v61.jpg|Vol 61: World Shut Your Mouth
DefinitiveG1Collection v62.jpg|Vol 62: Earthfall
DefinitiveG1Collection v63.jpg|Vol 63: Elegant Chaos
DefinitiveG1Collection v64.jpg|Vol 64: Windblade
DefinitiveG1Collection v65.jpg|Vol 65: Combiner Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v66.jpg|Vol 66: Speak, Memory
DefinitiveG1Collection v67.jpg|Vol 67: Conquerors
DefinitiveG1Collection v68.jpg|Vol 68: Empire of Stone
DefinitiveG1Collection v69.jpg|Vol 69: Sins of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v70.jpg|Vol 70: Punishment
DefinitiveG1Collection v71.jpg|Vol 71: All Hail Optimus
DefinitiveG1Collection v72.jpg|Vol 72: The Dying of the Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v75.jpg|Vol 75: Titans Return, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v76.jpg|Vol 76: Titans Return, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v77.jpg|Vol 77: Dissolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v78.jpg|Vol 78: New Cybertron
DefinitiveG1Collection v79.jpg|Vol 79: Primeless
DefinitiveG1Collection v80.jpg|Vol 80: Requiem of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v81.jpg|Vol 81: Revolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v82.jpg|Vol 82: Revolutionaries
DefinitiveG1Collection v83.jpg|Vol 83: First Strike
DefinitiveG1Collection v84.jpg|Vol 84: The Falling Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v85.jpg|Vol 85: The Falling Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v86.jpg|Vol 86: The Everlasting Voices
DefinitiveG1Collection v87.jpg|Vol 87: Crucible
DefinitiveG1Collection v88.jpg|Vol 88: Unicron
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Miscellaneous" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v73.jpg|Vol 73: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v74.jpg|Vol 74: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v92.jpg|Vol 92: Transformers: The Movie
DefinitiveG1Collection v93.jpg|Vol 93: Beast Wars: The Gathering
DefinitiveG1Collection v94.jpg|Vol 94: Beast Wars: The Ascending
DefinitiveG1Collection v95.jpg|Vol 95: G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v96.jpg|Vol 96: G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v97.jpg|Vol 97: G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 3
</gallery>
<gallery caption="2019 IDW continuity" perrow="6">



</gallery>

''[[:Category:Definitive G1 Collection covers|Extended cover gallery]]''</center>

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

==External links==
*[http://www.transformerscollection.com/ Official website]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Definitive G1 Collection}}
[[Category:Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics continuity comic compilations]]
[[Category:Dreamwave Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Generation 1 comic compilations]]

Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection

2020-09-10T20:36:55Z

YoungDoctor: /* Volumes */

[[File:Definitive G1 Collection in full.jpg|thumb|upright=3.05|4/5 of a grand tale.]]

'''Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection''' is a fortnightly 100-volume partwork from [[Hachette]], edited by [[Simon Furman]]. Partworks are a Hachette specialty: a series will be collected out of order (the first ''Definitive'' was volume 6) for commercial purposes but can be collected on your shelf in order with a fancy picture on the collective spines. The collection aims to republish every single "Generation 1" comic ever made, including the original [[Marvel Comics]] run—UK and US—in order for the very first time. Each issue has a special cover and bonus content, and [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)#Fantastic Free Gift.21|Fantastic FREE! Gifts]] are provided for subscribers. Marvel UK strips which were originally printed in black-and-white have been given brand new colours by [[John-Paul Bove]] using emulations of both 1980s American and latter-day Marvel UK techniques.<ref>"A Different Approach to Colour", Vol.16</ref>

The series was initially announced in September 2016 to contain 60 issues—ending with the ''Dark Cybertron'' crossover—but by the time of its launch in December, it had already been extended to 80 issues, with volume 80 providing some closure in the form of ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One| Till All Are One]]'' and ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers| Requiem of the Wreckers]]''. In 2018, upon the conclusion of IDW's first continuity, fans observed that it would take around ten extra volumes to reprint the entire IDW catalogue—and on the 18th of July 2019, Simon Furman confirmed on Twitter that the collection had been extended by ''twenty'' issues for a total of 100.

Sounds great, right?

Well... not if you live outside the [[United Kingdom]] and [[Ireland]]. The partwork was given a trial-run in parts of the UK before a national release started in early 2017. In August 2017, the subscription also became available in [[Australia]],<ref>[http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?s=438cea1ad48786466241053a45f743ae&t=24685 Ozformers Transformers Club of Australia]: UK Definitive Comic collection from Hachette now in Australia</ref> but became unavailable in July 2018 due to the closure of the Australian distributor. In January 2019, it became available in [[Poland]],<ref>[https://transformers-kolekcja.pl/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIrYTRuabz3wIVl-F3Ch2P7wirEAAYASAAEgJKLvD_BwE Polish version of official site]</ref> with volumes being released in proper chronological order.

Even for those who were able to subscribe, the partwork ended up not being quite as ''definitive'' as advertised, suffering from strange ordering and editorial choices, and from some major printing errors. Hachette's notoriously-bad customer service made it a nightmare to obtain corrected replacements.

==Volumes==
{{note|Each volume contains cover art from the original issues, plus a new introduction by Simon Furman. The bonus features below are in addition to these.}}
{| class="wikitable sortable"
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Vol.
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Issue
! scope="col" style="width: 125px;" | Title
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Contents
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Bonus Features
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Release date
|-
| 06
| 01
|Target: 2006
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Target: 2006|#78–83]] "[[Cybertron: The Middle Years!]]" Marvel UK [[Target: 2006|#84–88]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Aerialbots over America!|#21]]–[[Decepticon Graffiti!|23]]
| A guide to the launch of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' in the UK and its marketing purposes for Marvel UK, a "Meet... The [[Wrecker]]s" feature, a behind-the-scenes look at the development of "Target: 2006", and a spotlight on [[Geoff Senior]].
|[[December 30|30/12]]/[[2016]]
|-
| 36
| 02
| Stormbringer
| ''[[Spotlight: Shockwave]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Soundwave]]'' [[The Transformers: Stormbringer|''Stormbringer'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Nightbeat]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Hot Rod]]''
| An article on the beginning of IDW-verse production and several sketches by Figueroa.
|[[January 11|11/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 16
| 03
| The Primal Scream
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Cold Comfort and Joy!|#198]], [[The Fall and Rise of the Decepticon Empire.|#213]]–[[Survivors!|222]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Back from the Dead|#56]]–[[The Primal Scream|61]]
| An overview of the change in format of the UK series and the introduction of 5-page black-and-white strips, and an article by Bove on the colouring techniques used at Marvel UK and Marvel US in the 1980s, and how he emulated them for colourising the UK strips.
|[[January 27|27/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 18
| 04
| Edge of Extinction
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Rhythms of Darkness!|#67]]–[[On the Edge of Extinction!|75]]
| An overview of [[Unicron/Generation 1#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel's Unicron]] and a spotlight on [[Andrew Wildman]].
|[[February 8|08/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 29
| 05
| The War Within
| [[Transformers: The War Within|The War Within #1–6]] and [[The War Within Preview|preview]]
| Various character design sketches by [[Don Figueroa]] and an article on the making of ''The War Within''.
|[[February 22|22/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 37
| 06
| Escalation
| ''[[Spotlight: Sixshot]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Ultra Magnus]]'' [[The Transformers: Escalation|''Escalation'' #1–6]]
| Sketches by [[E. J. Su]], bios on [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|IDW Ultra Magnus]] & [[Sixshot (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Sixshot]], an article on creating the IDW ''Spotlights'', and an interview with Su. 
|[[March 8|08/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 08
| 07
| Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive!|#113]]–[[Fire on High!|120]] "[[Vicious Circle!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[King of the Hill!|#27]]–[[Mechanical Difficulties!|28]]
| An overview of the Marvel UK Annuals and a bio on [[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Goldbug]].
|[[March 22|22/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 39
| 08
| Hearts of Steel
| [[Hearts of Steel|''Hearts of Steel'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Galvatron]], [[Spotlight: Optimus Prime]], [[Spotlight: Mirage]]''
| Concept art by [[Guido Guidi]] and an article about the creation of ''Hearts of Steel''.
|[[April 5|05/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 10
| 09
| Trial by Fire
| [[The Transformers: Headmasters|Headmasters #1–4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Trial by Fire!|#38]]–[[The Desert Island of Space!|39]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Worlds Apart!|#130]]–[[Kup's Story!|132]]
| A retrospective on the [[The Transformers: Headmasters|''Headmasters'' miniseries]] and an overview of how Marvel UK handled toy marketing.
| [[April 19|19/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 21
| 10
| Regeneration One
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Counterpoint|#80.5]]–[[Loose Ends, Part 5|85]]
| A commentary on [[Loose Ends, Part 1|issue #81]] by Simon Furman, an overview on production leading up to ''Regeneration One'', and several cover sketches.
| [[May 3|03/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 31
| 11
| The Iron Fist
| [[Transformers/G.I. Joe|Transformers/G.I. Joe #1–6]]
| Various character design sketches by Figueroa and an overview of the many [[G.I. Joe crossovers]] across the comics.
| [[May 17|17/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 50
| 12
| Heart of Darkness
| [[The Transformers: Heart of Darkness|''Heart of Darkness'' #1–4]] [[Infestation (IDW)|''The Transformers: Infestation'' #1–2]]
| A post-mortem on "[[Zombie|Zombots]]" across the various comics and a bio on [[Hardhead (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Hardhead]].
| [[May 31|31/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 59
| 13
| Dark Cybertron, Part 1
| [[Dark Dawn: Dark Cybertron Chapter 1|''Dark Cybertron'' one-shot]] [[Little Victories|''More than Meets the Eye'' #22]]–[[No Exit: Dark Cybertron Chapter 6|25]] [[Winners & Losers: Dark Cybertron Chapter 3|''Robots in Disguise'' #23]]–[[Finest Hour: Dark Cybertron Chapter 5|24]]
| A bio on the [[Titan (group)|Titans]] and the making of ''Dark Cybertron'' with [[John Barber]] and James Roberts.
| [[June 14|14/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 01
| 14
| Power Play
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Transformers (issue)|#1]]–[[The Last Stand|4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Man of Iron (issue)|#9]]–[[Raiders of the Last Ark|21]]
| The alternate ending of [[The Last Stand|Marvel US #4]], unused artwork from [[The Transformers (issue)|issue #1]] by [[Frank Springer]], and an overview of how Marvel UK first approached The Transformers.
| [[June 28|28/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 26
| 15
| War and Peace
| ''[[War and Peace|Transformers: Generation 1 vol. 2]]'' #1–6 and [[Transformers Volume 2 Preview|preview]]
| Top 10 Easter eggs for "[[War and Peace]]" and scorecards listing each faction and their crew members during the arc.
| [[July 12|12/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 35
| 16
| Primacy
| [[The Transformers: Monstrosity|''Monstrosity'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Primacy|''Primacy'' #1–4]]
| An interview with [[Flint Dille]] about his work on the G1 cartoon and his involvement in the ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy|Autocracy]]'' trilogy.
| [[July 26|26/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 64
| 17
| Windblade
| [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 1 #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[Onyx Interface Part One: Signals, Calls, and Marches|#35]]–[[The Onyx Interface Conclusion: The Obliterati|38]]
| A bio for [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]], an overview of her conception, pictures of her ''[[Thrilling 30]]'' toy, and early design sketches by Hasbro.
| [[August 9|09/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 19
| 18
| Perchance to Dream
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Out to Lunch!|#240]]–[[...Perchance to Dream|260]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Still Life!|#76]]–[[Exodus!|77]]
| A Marvel UK ''Classic Heroes Competition!'' page, an overview of Furman's attempts to connect Marvel UK's black-and-white strips to the US stories and how he would eventually have to abandon doing so, an article on the "[[Two Megatrons!]]" confusion, and a bio on [[Thunderwing (G1)#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Thunderwing]].
| [[August 23|23/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 40
| 19
| Maximum Dinobots
| [[The Transformers: Maximum Dinobots|''Maximum Dinobots'' #1–5]] ''[[Spotlight: Grimlock]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Wheelie]]''
| Dinobot sketches by [[Nick Roche]] and [[Klaus Scherwinski]]'s ''Spotlight: Wheelie'' sketchbook.
| [[September 6|06/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 22
| 20
| Natural Selection
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Natural Selection, Part One|#86]]–[[Natural Selection, Part Five|90]] "[[Peace]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]])
| An overview of the [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Marvel ''Generation 2'' comic]] and several cover sketches.
| [[September 20|20/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 46
| 21
| Things Fall Apart
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Things Fall Apart, Part 1: "New Arrivals, Old Encounters"|#2]]–[[Scrapper (issue)|8]]
| Character design sketches by Figueroa, an extract from ''[[Decepticomments]]'' from [[Things Fall Apart, Part 3: "Seasons in Flight"|''The Transformers'' #4]] by [[Mike Costa]], and a bio on [[Swindle (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Swindle]].
| [[October 4|04/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 07
| 22
| The Harder They Die
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Prey!|#96]]–[[Resurrection!|104]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Afterdeath!|#24]]–[[Funeral for a Friend!|26]]
| An analysis of [[the many deaths of Optimus Prime]] in Generation 1.
| [[October 18|18/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 33
| 23
| Megatron: Origin
| [[The Transformers: Megatron Origin|''Megatron: Origin'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Blurr]]'', ''[[Omega's Conundrum|Spotlight: Orion Pax]]''
| A discussion of the production stages on ''Megatron: Origin'' by [[Eric Holmes]].
| [[November 1|01/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 14
| 24
| Space Pirates
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Wrecking Havoc|#172–173]], [[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|#180]]–[[Dry Run!|189]] "[[Altered Image!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Man in the Machine!|#51]]
| How Marvel UK incorporated ''[[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|The Big Broadcast of 2006]]'' (US issue #43) into their timeline.
| [[November 15|15/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 43
| 25
| All Hail Megatron, Part 1
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #1–8]]
| An article on creating ''All Hail Megatron'', character design sketches by Guidi, and the series pitch by [[Shane McCarthy]].
| [[November 29|29/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 52
| 26
| The Death of Optimus Prime
| [[Chaos (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1 #24, 26, 28, 30, 31]] ''[[Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime|The Death of Optimus Prime]]''
| An interview with [[James Roberts]] on how he worked his way up to become an ongoing writer, and character design sketches by [[Livio Ramondelli]].
| [[December 13|13/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 44
| 27
| All Hail Megatron, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #9–16]]
| A ''Decepticon Roll Call'' with mini-bios, and trivia about ''All Hail Megatron'' [[All Hail Megatron issue 13|#13]]–[[All Hail Megatron issue 16|16]], pointing out notable plot points in the ''Coda'' issues.
| [[December 27|27/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 20
| 28
| End of the Road
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[A Savage Circle|#78]]–[[End of the Road! (US)|80]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Starting Over!|#261]]–[[End of the Road! (UK)|289]]
| Articles about the ends of the US and UK series, including discussion of "[[Another Time & Place]]," the final letters page from #80, and script pages from #80.
| [[January 10|10/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 72
| 29
| The Dying of the Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Dying of the Light: (1) How Bright Their Frail Deeds|#50]]–[[The Dying of the Light Part 6: Do Not Go Gentle|55]]
| The bonus story "[[No Guns, No Swords, No Briefcases]] and essential background material on the [[Decepticon Justice Division|DJD]]
| [[January 24|24/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 75
| 30
| Titans Return, Part 1
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[07:00:00|#1]]–[[The Line Between Us|4]] [[The Last Autobot|''Titans Return'' one-shot]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[White Light|#56]]–[[White Heat|57]] ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Ten to Midnight|#56]]–[[Last Light (issue)|57]]
| "Creating the IDW-Verse" — a two-page article on the beginning of ''More than Meets the Eye'' and ''Robots in Disguise''.
| [[February 7|07/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 60
| 31
| Dark Cybertron, Part 2
| [[The Dead Are Not Enough: Dark Cybertron Chapter 7|''Robots in Disguise'' #25]]–[[Black Planet: Dark Cybertron Chapter 11|27]] [[Burning Bright: Dark Cybertron Chapter 8|''More than Meets the Eye'' #26]]–[[The Becoming: Dark Cybertron Chapter 10|27]] [[...And the Damage Done: Dark Cybertron Finale|''Dark Cybertron: Finale'' one-shot]]
| A blow-by-blow account of Dark Cybertron's hidden secrets
| [[February 21|21/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 71
| 32
| All Hail Optimus
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[All Hail Optimus Part 1: Once Upon a Time on Earth|#50]]–[[All Hail Optimus Part 6: No Fair Fights|55]]
| Background material on the [[Council of Worlds]]
| [[March 7|07/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 02
| 33
| New Order
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The New Order|#5]]–[[Repeat Performance!|8]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Decepticon Dam-Busters!|#29]]–[[The Wrath of Grimlock!|32]] Marvel US [[DIS-Integrated Circuits!|#9]]–[[The Next Best Thing to Being There!|10]] "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1995]])
| Insights into Marvel UK's efforts to ease the transition between the US and UK material
| [[March 21|21/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 03
| 34
| Dinobot Hunt
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Christmas Breaker!|#41]]–[[Dinobot Hunt!|50]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Brainstorm!|#11]]–[[Prime Time!|12]]
| A look at the UK [[Christmas]] story tradition
| [[April 4|04/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 23
| 35
| Destiny
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Destiny, Part One|#91]]–[[Destiny, Part Five|95]], [[Less Than Zero|#0]] "[[Destiny of the Dinobots!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| A feature on Regeneration One issue #0 and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[April 18|18/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 30
| 36
| War Within: The Dark Ages
| [[Transformers: War Within: The Dark Ages|''War Within: The Dark Ages'' #1–6]]
| Synopsis of ''[[Transformers: War Within: The Age of Wrath|War Within: the Age of Wrath]]'', including art from unfinished issues.
| [[May 2|02/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 45
| 37
| Last Stand of the Wreckers
| [[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|''Last Stand of the Wreckers'' #1–5]] ''[[Ride-Along|Spotlight: Prowl]]'' [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[...For All Mankind|#1]]
| Interview with [[Nick Roche]], pre-production sketches and story drafts
| [[May 16|16/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 49
| 38
| The Iron Age
| [[The Transformers: Ironhide|''Ironhide'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Space Opera Part 1: The Stars My Destination|#19]]–[[Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix|21 ("Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix" only)]].
| Casey Coller's ''Ironhide'' sketchbook
| [[May 30|30/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 11
| 39
| The Legacy of Unicron
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Headhunt|#133–134]] "[[What's in a Name?]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) Marvel UK [[Grudge Match!|#135]]–[[Ladies' Night (issue)|138]], [[The Legacy of Unicron!|#146–151]] "[[Ark Duty]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Pretender to the Throne!|#40]]–[[Totaled!|41]]
| A feature on the origins of the origin of the Transformers
| [[June 13|13/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 17
| 40
| Matrix Quest
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Bird of Prey!|#62]]–[[All Fall Down|66]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Aspects of Evil!|#223]]–[[A Savage Place!|239]] "[[The Chain Gang!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| Features on the stories behind "Matrix Quest" and, Marvel UK's crossover "[[Deathbringer (Marvel)|Deathbringer]]" saga
| [[June 27|27/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 73
| 41
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 1
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[The Golden Boys|#0]]–[[Headmasters (issue)|7]]
| A creator commentary on issue #0 and an exclusive interview with [[Tom Scioli]]
| [[July 11|11/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 76
| 42
| Titans Return, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]] [[Ping|#5]]–[[If I Know You|11]]
| Article on ''[[Revolution]]''
| [[July 25|25/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 62
| 43
| Earthfall
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Earthfall Part 1: Hello Cruel World|#28]]–[[The Crucible|34]]
| The lowdown on the (new) human cast and rare promotional posters for the [[Dawn of the Autobots]] event
| [[August 8|08/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 04
| 44
| Second Generation
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Shooting Star!|#13]]–[[Plight of the Bumblebee!|16]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Robot Buster!|#59]]–[[Second Generation!|65]] "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]])
| The story behind Marvel UK's Special Teams promotion
| [[August 22|22/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 32
| 45
| Infiltration
| [[The Transformers: Infiltration|''Infiltration'' #0–6]]
| An article on "Creating the IDW-Verse: From the Ground Up", "The Pitch" - Furman's original pitch to IDW for Infiltration, and some sketches by [[E. J. Su]].
| [[September 5|05/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 24
| 46
| The War to End All Wars
| ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]]'' [[The War to End All Wars, Part 1|#96]]–[[The War to End All Wars, Part 5|100]]
| the prose story "[[King of Shadows]]" and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[September 19|19/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 28
| 47
| Worlds Collide Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Worlds Collide|#14]]–[[The_End|18]] [[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye#Issue .238|Dreamwave's ''More than Meets the Eye'' #8]]
| A brief overview of Dreamwave's [[Transformers: Energon (comic)|Energon comic]] and a bonus glossary section dedicated entirely to background material from the Dreamwave G1-verse
| [[October 3|03/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 42
| 48
| Revelation
| ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]: [[Spotlight: Arcee|Arcee]], [[Spotlight: Cyclonus|Cyclonus]], [[Spotlight: Hardhead|Hardhead]], [[Spotlight: Doubledealer|Doubledealer]], [[Spotlight: Sideswipe|Sideswipe]], [[Spotlight: Jazz|Jazz]], [[Spotlight: Metroplex|Metroplex]]''
| "-Ations" retrospective, sketchbook art from Alex Milne and E. J. Su reprinted from individual ''Spotlights''
| [[October 17|17/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 65
| 49
| Combiner Wars
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[First Contact (IDW)|#39]]–[[Now and On Earth|42]] [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2 #1–4]]
| An article on the [[Prime Wars Trilogy]]
| [[October 31|31/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 79
| 50
| Primeless
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Life of Sideswipe|#9]]–[[Primeless, Part 2|12]] ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light|Lost Light]]'' [[Chasing the Infinite|#9]]–[[The Plotters' Club (Part 3): Journey's End|12]]
| A one-page editorial by Simon Furman that mentions the IDW universe's impending end
| [[November 14|14/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 12
| 51
| Cosmic Carnival
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Enemy Action!|#152–153]], [[Salvage!|#160–161]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[People Power!|#42]], [[The Cosmic Carnival|44]]–[[Ca$h and Car-nage!|46]] Marvel UK [[Stargazing|#145]]
| A behind-the-scenes look at the UK-only return of Megatron
| [[November 28|28/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 25
| 52
| Prime Directive
| [[Prime Directive|''Tranformers: Generation 1'' vol. 1 #1–6]] (plus [[Prime Directive Preview|Preview]])
| A two-page article on 'the in-between years' covering the time when no-one had the ''Transformers'' licence for comics.
| [[December 12|12/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 53
| 53
| Liars, A to D
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Liars, A to D Part 1: How to Say Goodbye and Mean It|#1]]–[[Interiors|6]], ''[[The Reluctant Specialist|Spotlight: Trailcutter]]'' and ''[[The Waiting Game|Spotlight: Hoist]]''
| An all-new interview with James Roberts, rare archive material from the dawn of MTMTE, Alex Milne's sketchbook.
| [[December 26|26/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 55
| 54
| Shadowplay
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Rules of Disengagement (issue)|#7]]–[[More than Meets the Eye issue 13|13]], plus the [[Primus: You, Me, and Other Revelations|2012 Annual]]
| The second of a new three-part interview with Roberts, early pages of scripts, and design sketches from Alex Milne.
| [[January 9|09/01]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 13
| 55
| City of Fear
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[City of Fear!|#164]]–[[Deadly Games!|171]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Club Con!|#47]]–[[Dark Star|50]] "[[Dreadwing Down!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]]) "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1985]])
| A behind-the scenes look at a sea change moment for the US comic (Furman's takeover as head writer) and a [[Bob Budiansky]] sketchbook.
| [[January 23|23/01]]/2019
|-
| 41
| 56
| Drift
| [[The Transformers: Drift|''The Transformers: Drift'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlight:]] ''[[Spotlight: Drift|Drift]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Blaster]]''
| An article on creating Drift and some design sketches by [[Guido Guidi]].
| [[February 6|06/02]]/2019
|-
| 74
| 57
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[Pax Megatronus|#8]]–[[The War Never Ends|13]]
| No extras, but still has the cover art and intro from Furman present on all issues.
| [[February 20|20/02]]/2019
|-
| 47
| 58
| International Incident
| [[The Transformers: Bumblebee|''The Transformers: Bumblebee'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[International Incident Part 1: "The Land Ironclads"|#9]]–[[International Incident Part 4: "All My Sins Remembered"|12]]
| An interview with [[Zander Cannon]] and breakdowns for pages 1–4 of each issue of the ''Bumblebee'' mini-series.
| [[March 6|06/03]]/2019
|-
| 05
| 59
| The Smelting Pool
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Smelting Pool!|#17]]–[[Showdown!|20]] "[[Victory!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[In the National Interest|#74–77]]
|Background material on the [[Cybertron (planet)|planet Cybertron]] with map.
| [[March 20|20/03]]/2019
|-
| 54
| 60
| A Better Tomorrow
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[The Autonomy Lesson (issue)|#1]]–[[Interference Patterns|7]]
| A new interview with [[John Barber]]
| [[April 3|03/04]]/2019
|-
| 48
| 61
| Revenge of the Decepticons
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Heart Like a Wheel|#13]]–[[Revenge of the Decepticons Part 5: Enemy Mine|18]] ''[[Spotlight: Megatron]]''
| A ''Spotlight: Megatron'' sketchbook
| [[April 17|17/04]]/2019
|-
| 15
| 62
| Time Wars
| "[[All in the Minds!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Time Wars|#199–205]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Guess Who the Mecannibals Are Having for Dinner?|#52]]–[[The Interplanetary Wrestling Championship!|55]]
| A behind-the-scenes look at Galvatron's storyline
| [[May 1|01/05]]/2019
|-
| 58
| 63
| Shockpoint
|[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]] #[[Plan for Everything|15]]–[[Soundwaves (issue)|22]]
| A 2-page history of IDW Shockwave's history-setting plans.
| [[May 15|15/05]]/2019
|-
| 80
| 64
| Requiem of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[Your First Mistake|#12]] [[The Chosen One|''Till Are Are One'' Annual]] [[Ghost Stories|2017 ''Transformers'' Annual]] ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers|Requiem of the Wreckers]]''
| Wreckers sketchbook and notebook material from [[Nick Roche]].
| [[May 29|29/05]]/2019
|-
| 63
| 65
| Elegant Chaos
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Custom-Made Now - An Elegant Chaos Prologue|#35]]–[[The Frail Gaze|42]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[June 12|12/06]]/2019
|-
| 09
| 66
| Toy Soldiers
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Ancient Relics!|#125 and ''Action Force'' #24–27]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Crater Critters|#29]]–[[Used Autobots|32]], [[Child%27s_Play_(issue)|#35]]–[[Toy Soldiers!|37]]
| A one-page behind-the-scenes feature on "[[Man of Iron (issue)|Man of Iron]]" and how it got reprinted in the US comic.
| [[June 26|26/06]]/2019
|-
| 78
| 67
| New Cybertron
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[New Cybertron Part 1: To Walk Among the Chosen|#1]]–[[What It's Really Like|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Kei Zama]]
| [[July 10|10/07]]/2019
|-
| 67
| 68
| Conquerors
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[South of Heaven|#43]]–[[Conquerors Part 4: Perihelion|49]] ''[[An Uneventful Night|Combiner Hunters]]'' one-shot
| Development art by [[Andrew Griffith]]
| [[July 24|24/07]]/2019
|-
| 38
| 69
| Devastation
| ''[[The Transformers: Devastation]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]'' for [[Spotlight: Kup|Kup]], [[Spotlight: Ramjet|Ramjet]] and [[Spotlight: Cliffjumper|Cliffjumper]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 7|07/08]]/2019
|-
| 57
| 70
| Remain in Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Remembrance Day|#14]]–[[Remain in Light 5 of 5: This Calamitous Life|21]] Prose stories "[[Signal to Noise]]" and "[[The Sound of Breaking Glass]]"
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 21|21/08]]/2019
|-
| 77
| 71
| Dissolution
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Dissolution Part 1: Some Other Cybertron|#1]]–[[An Axe to Break the Ice|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Jack Lawrence]]
| [[September 4|04/09]]/2019
|-
| 69
| 72
| Sins of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Sins of the Wreckers|Sins of the Wreckers]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers Holiday Special]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[September 18|18/09]]/2019
|-
| 56
| 73
| City On Fire
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Dinobot Hunt (IDW)|#8]]–[[Before the Dawn|14]] [[Primus: All Good Things|2012 Annual]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[October 2|02/10]]/2019
|-
| 34
| 74
| Autocracy
| ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy]]'' miniseries ''[[The Hunting Party (IDW)|Spotlight: Thundercracker]]''
| A one-page article on ''Autocracy'', including an interview with co-writer [[Chris Metzen]].
| [[October 16|16/10]]/2019
|-
| 70
| 75
| Punishment
| ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Redemption]]'' one-shot ''[[The Transformers: Salvation]]'' one-shot
| An article about the Motion Book Tool app used for the digital version of ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'', a "Brief History of the (IDW) Dinobots", and a [[Livio Ramondelli]] sketchbook.
| [[October 30|30/10]]/2019
|-
| 27
| 76
| Worlds Collide Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_8|#8]]–[[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_13|13]] [[More_than_Meets_the_Eye:_Transformers:_Armada|''More than Meets the Eye: Armada'' ]] (select material)
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 13|13/11]]/2019
|-
| 68
| 77
| Empire of Stone
| ''[[The Transformers: Drift - Empire of Stone|Drift - Empire of Stone]]'' miniseries [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2]] issues 5–7
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 27|27/11]]/2019
|-
| 51
| 78
| Chaos Theory
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Police Action: Prologue|#21 ("Police Action: Prologue" only)]], [[Chaos Theory Part 1|#22–23]], [[Police Action: Part 1|25]], [[Police Action Part 2: Only Forward|27]], [[Police Action Part 3: A Second Chance at Eden|29]] [[The Question|Spotlight: Bumblebee]]
| A one-page article exploring the origins of the "[[Chaos (IDW)|Chaos]]" arc and beyond.
| [[December 11|11/12]]/2019
|-
| 66
| 79
| Speak, Memory
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The One Where They Go to Earth|#43]]–[[Speak, Memory! (Part 2)|49]]
| A one-page article about the [[Scavenger (group)|Scavengers]].
| [[December 25|25/12]]/2019
|-
| 61
| 80
| World, Shut Your Mouth
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[World, Shut Your Mouth Part 1: Towards Peace|#28]]–[[Births, Deaths, and Interventions|34]]
| A page of "Season 2" character posters.
| [[January 8|08/01]]/[[2020]]
|-
| 84
| 81
| The Falling: Part 1
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Dead Come Home, Part 1 (of 2)|#13]]–[[The Falling, Chapter 3: The Ground|17]] ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[Starscream: The Movie (comic)|Annual 2018]]
| A one-page article about the Primes.
| [[January 22|22/01]]/2020
|-
| 90
| 82
| Generation 2: Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[Ghosts|#0]]–[[The Gathering Darkness|6]]
| An article about [[Fleetway]]'s [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Fleetway)|UK ''Generation 2'' comic]], including [small-scale scans of] "[[War Without End (issue)|War Without End]]", their first UK-original ''G2'' strip.
| [[February 5|05/02]]/2020
|-
| 81
| 83
| Revolution
| ''[[Revolution]]'' [[Secret Raiders: A Revolution Prelude|#0]]–[[Valley Forge|5]] ''[[Thundercracker & Buster Save the World|The Transformers]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Informed|Till All Are One]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Nothing Will Ever Be the Same Again!|More than Meets the Eye]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro.
| [[February 19|19/02]]/2020
|-
| 89
| 84
| Realignments
| ''[[G.I. Joe and the Transformers (comic)|G.I. Joe and the Transformers]]'' [[Blood on the Tracks|#1]]–[[...All Fall Down!|4]] [[G.I. Joe (comic)|Marvel's ''G.I. Joe'']] [[Unfoldings!|#138]]–[[Final Transformations|142]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[March 4|04/03]]/2020
|-
| 82
| 85
| Revolutionaries
| ''[[Revolutionaries]]'' [[Crisis Intervention|#1]]–[[Ghost in the Machine (IDW)|8]]
| A two-page timeline of major IDW continuity events from issue #1, and the character profiles also from issue #1.
| [[March 18|18/03]]/2020
|-
| 92
| 86
| Transformers: The Movie
| [[Transformers: The Movie (Marvel comic)|Marvel's adaption]] of [[The Transformers: The Movie|the 1986 animated movie]] [[Transformers: The Animated Movie|IDW's adaption]] of that same movie
| A one-page article about the movie-verse in comics.
| [[April 1|01/04]]/2020
|-
| 83
| 87
| First Strike
| ''[[First Strike]]'' [[First Strike issue 0|#0]]–[[First Strike issue 6|6]] [[Unification Day: Dusk|First Strike: Transformers]] one-shot [[Unification Day: Dawn|First Strike: Optimus Prime]] one-shot
| A one-page "Prelude to...Unicron!" article, preceding the reprint of "[[First Strike issue 6#Coda: "The Signal"|The Signal]]".
| [[April 22|22/04]]/2020
|-
| 95
| 88
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 1
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers'' #1–6]]
| A one-page article about Devil's Due, a two-page article about creating the "Devil's Due-verse" and three pages of [[Mike S. Miller]]'s sketchbook art.
| [[May 13|13/05]]/2020
|-
| 85
| 89
| The Falling, Part 2
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Falling, Interlude: The First Who Was Named|#18]]–[[A Sunrise Dark|24]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[June 3|03/06]]/2020
|-
| 93
| 90
| Beast Wars: The Gathering
| [[Transformers, Beast Wars: The Gathering|''Beast Wars: The Gathering'' #1–4]]
and material from [[Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook]]
| An introduction by [[Ben Yee]], a 2-page "Unleash the Beast Wars" feature detailing the origins of the show and toyline, a 3-page "Creating the BW-Verse" interview with [[Bob Forward]], a 2-page "The (G1) roots of the Beast Wars" feature detailing the G1 elements in the show, 4 pages of [[Don Figueroa]]'s design sketches, and a reprint of the "[[Optimus Primal vs Megatron!]]" toy pack-in comic.
| [[June 17|17/06]]/2020
|-
| 86
| 91
| The Everlasting Voices
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Sardines|#13]]–[[The Everlasting Voices (3): You Are Here|18]]
| The first half of ''[[Transformers: Historia]]'' (up to ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'', including the [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]] profile, which was itself copied from the ''[[Hasbro Heroes Sourcebook]]''.
| [[July 1|01/07]]/2020
|-
| 96
| 92
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 2
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II'' #1–4]] [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War'' #1–2]]
| A two-page sketchbook of [[Don Figueroa]]'s original pencils for the the first 8 pages of ''The Art of War''.
| [[July 15|15/07]]/2020
|-
| 87
| 93
| Crucible
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Crucible (Part 1): A Dance Before Dying|#19]]–[[Crucible (Part 6): A Spark Among Embers|24]]
| The second half of ''[[Transformers: Historia]]'' including the [[Optimus Prime (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Optimus Prime]] profile.
| [[July 29|29/07]]/2020
|-
| 91
| 94
| Generation 2, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[New Dawn|#7]]–[[A Rage in Heaven!|12]]
| A profile on [[Derek Yaniger]], a outro by Simon Furman including [small-scale scans of] "[[War Zone|War Zone]]", their second UK-original ''G2'' strip.
| [[August 12|12/08]]/2020
|-
| 88
| 95
| Unicron
| ''[[Transformers: Unicron]]'' [[Our Darkest|#0]]–[[Ceremony|6]] ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[Post|#25]] ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[How To Say Goodbye And Mean It: Part 2|25]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 26|26/08]]/2020
|-
| 94
| 96
| Beast Wars: The Ascending
| [[Transformers: Beast Wars: The Ascending|''Beast Wars: The Ascending'' #1–4]] and material from [[Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook]]
|
| [[September 9|09/09]]/2020
|-
| 97
| 97
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 3
| [[Devil's Due Press|DDP]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War'' #3–5]] [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: Black Horizon|''G.I. Joe vs, the Transformers: Black Horizon'' #1–2]]
|
| [[September 23|23/09]]/2020
|-
| 98
| 98
| The World In Your Eyes
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The World In Your Eyes Part One|#1]]–[[Orion Pax: Free Fall|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[October 7|07/10]]/2020
|-
| 99
| 99
| The Cracks Beneath Your Feet
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The Cracks Beneath Your Feet Part One|#7]]–[[Nautica: Home|12]] (assumed)
|
| [[October 21|21/10]]/2020
|-
| 100
| 100
| Constructicons Rising
| ''[[Transformers: Galaxies]]'' [[Constructicons Rising, Part 1|#1]]–[[Wannabee, Part 2|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[November 4|04/11]]/2020
|}

==Curation==
Although this collection was curated by Simon Furman, the man directly responsible for many of the stories it contains, many of the decisions it makes seem to be far from ideal.

Presumably as a result of these being the master copies in Hasbro's possession, Marvel US reprints are drawn from IDW's ''[[The Transformers Classics]]'' 'remasters', complete with newly-introduced typos, haphazard attempts to 'fix' errors, washed-out linework, and less authentic coloring than John-Paul Bove's brand new efforts! In a similar vein, cover galleries include the covers for both the US and UK stories, but ''not'' the UK-exclusive covers for US stories. This focus on presenting the 'unmodified' versions of US comics means that many of the minor edits made to those stories for their original UK printings (to better jive with Furman's expanded continuity) are absent.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-9#post-14167234 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "In order to smooth over the continuity cracks between the UK and US stories, the US books were usually edited (US#16-24 were especially affected) for their UK printing. But rather than the UK edits of the American stories, we get the familiar US versions. <nowiki>[...]</nowiki> Oh, and on page 214, there's a factual error as well, when it states that Transformers UK sold 200,000 copies per week. That's actually completely false. It actually sold 100,000 copies per week at its peak. That said, each individual comic sold would tend to be read by a number of people, as kids lent or gave their comics to siblings or school friends. It was calculated that, on average, each comic sold would be read by two-point-five people. Marvel (and other comic publishers such as Fleetway or IPC) would therefore take the ''actual'' circulation figures and apply this 2.5 multiplier to give a total readership that did exceed two hundred thousand on occasion. So whilst the ''readership'' was arguably 250K-plus, the actual ''number of copies'' sold was nowhere near that figure.</ref>

===Reading order===
The actual ordering of the Marvel material is far from straightforward, for various reasons:
*The two Furman-penned comics from [[Transformers Annual 1985|the 1995 annual]] don't have a particular place in the continuity: "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" is a standalone flashback that isn't referenced until UK #44, while "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" is a non-canonical present-day story written to promote toys that weren't appearing in the comic at the time. Presumably for reasons of space, they're included as backmatter in volumes 2 and 13; the latter consists mostly of stories released three years later!
*Volume 3 presents UK #41-50 before US #11-12, when they should be the other way around. Apparently this was a deliberate decision to place focus on the UK story the volume was centred around!<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/315915/thread Facebook post quoted by Andy Turnbull on the Transmasters UK forums]: "While we make every effort to maintain the original flow and continuity of the Marvel UK/US TRANSFORMERS stories, the self-contained identity and integrity of each individual volume is of paramount importance, especially as the collections aren’t released in chronological order. So, in a heavily UK-centric volume titled Dinobot Hunt, we took the decision to lead with the main/bulk of 'Dinobot Hunt' (and preceding issues) itself. Both UK and US strips are prefaced with a dedicated Story So Far to ease readers into the respective narratives, so they can be enjoyed together or in and of themselves. Naturally, we regret any inherent ‘spoilers’, but our policy is to create coherent and self-supportive volumes that anyone, casual reader or long-time fan, can pick up and enjoy."</ref>
*The minor Marvel productions "[[The Night the Transformers Saved Christmas]]" and "[[The Special Teams Have Arrived]]" are absent—but of course, the latter was completely retold in UK #63-65, included here in volume 4.
*The two comic stories from [[Transformers Annual 1986|the 1986 annual]] aren't directly connected to specific issues; "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" doesn't really fit into continuity, but certainly takes place after UK #65—which is where the partwork puts it—while "[[Victory!]]" (which explains what happened to the Dinobots between UK #50 and #65) is placed before UK #74-77, another Dinobot-centric story.
*"[[The Gift]]", UK #93's seasonal story by [[James Hill]], is omitted; it should be placed in volume 6 between US #22 and US #23.
*Volume 8 reshuffles things slightly relative to publication order; US #27 was originally published before UK #113-120, but is moved afterwards. As the stories aren't connected, this doesn't really affect anything.
*The stories from [[Transformers Annual 1987|the 1987 annual]] are scattered. "[[Vicious Circle!]]" is placed in volume 8 alongside UK #113-120, collectively forming the first "post-movie" storyline. "What's In a Name?" is placed in volume 11 directly before UK #135-136, which developed its premise further. "[[Ark Duty]]" is also thrown into volume 11, after UK #146-151... despite chronologically taking place some time before that story.
*In a move that actually ''improves'' readability, the ''[[Action Force (comic)|Action Force]]'' crossover "[[Ancient Relics!]]" (which originally interrupted the unrelated two-part story told across US #29-30) is moved before #29.
*[[Worlds Apart!|UK #130-131]] was written as an introduction to the Headmaster concept to UK audiences; it's recontextualised here as a flashback, letting the ''[[The Transformers: Headmasters| Headmasters]]'' miniseries lead directly into [[Trial by Fire!|US #38]]. Keeping UK-original strips in publication order however then causes trouble with [[Ladies' Night (issue)|UK #137-138]], which set up the Combaticons' appearance in... [[Used Autobots|US #32]], and [[Enemy Action!|UK #152-153]], which takes place before the launch of [[Club Con]] in [[The Desert Island of Space!|US #39]].
*[[Stargazing|UK #145]], a fairly standalone Christmas story, is thrown in at the end of volume 12.
*When Furman took over the US comic, the UK strips (having switched to black-and-white) generally stopped tying directly into the US material. Exceptions included [[Race with the Devil|UK #215-218]] setting up [[Back from the Dead|US #56]], Thunderwing's rise to power across [[The Big Shutdown!|UK #230-231]] and [[Rage!|#241]]-[[Assault on the Ark!|242]] paying off in [[Yesterday's Heroes!|US #60]], [[Out to Lunch!|UK #240]] following on from [[Skin Deep|US #59]], [[Mind Games|UK #243]]-[[Two Megatrons!|244]] further explaining Megatron's appearance in US #56-59, [[Whose Lifeforce Is It Anyway?|UK #249]] being nodded to in [[Bird of Prey!|US #62]], and the events of [[Deathbringer (issue)|UK #235-236]] being directly referenced in [[Dark Creation|US #65]]. This collection includes these comics in clumps during breaks in the action, ignoring most of this connective tissue.
*Starting with [[...Perchance to Dream|UK #255]] (as noted on the [[Earthforce]] page), the UK material effectively diverged into an entire alternate timeline; most of these stories are placed together at the end of volume 20.

The ordering of IDW's comics, meanwhile, can only be described as impenetrable to a new reader. As ''Infiltration'' was the starting point for that continuity, it is presented as the first volume, but in a stab towards chronological ordering the next volumes are devoted to prequels such as ''[[Megatron: Origin]]'' and ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy| Autocracy]]'', which were released well after the fact and don't really mesh well here. Even Furman's own work isn't safe: ''[[The Transformers: Maximum Dinobots| Maximum Dinobots]]'' is placed before ''[[Revelation (IDW)|Revelation]]'', and the other ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight| Spotlight]]'' issues are thrown in haphazardly wherever space allows. How much of the material following his run Furman has actually read, only he can say.

===Omissions===
It's apparent that when the partwork was planned out, Hatchette intended to be the first company to reprint the latter-day [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] material such as [[Transformers: Generation 1 (Dreamwave)|the Sunstorm arc]], ''[[Transformers: Micromasters|Micromasters]]'', and the ''[[20th Anniversary Transformers Summer Special|Summer Special]]''<ref>[https://simonfurman.wordpress.com/2017/01/ Simon Furman on WordPress]: "all the Dreamwave G1 material that saw print in single-issue form will be collected, including the rare Summer Special story, Welcome to the Jungle, and their ongoing G1 series"</ref> in volumes 27 and 28—but those volumes wound up containing issues from Dreamwave's ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)| Armada]]'' comic, which merely guest-starred G1 characters and seem very out of place in a "Definitive ''G1'' Collection" (unsurprisingly, the rest of the ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)| Armada]]'' and ''[[Transformers: Energon (comic)| Energon]]'' material is omitted). Presumably, this late change occurred for the same reason those stories have never been reprinted in the first place—nobody's sure whether the creative teams were actually ''paid'' for their work. A summary of ''[[Transformers: War Within: The Age of Wrath|The Age of Wrath]]'' was included, but none of the finished issues of that series or of ''[[Transformers/G.I. Joe: Divided Front]]'' were reprinted.

Many of the collection's other omissions can easily be considered editorial choices:
*The prose stories from Marvel UK's annuals are omitted, although it bears mentioning that most of them were written by authors other than Furman and are tricky to reconcile with the continuity proper anyway. Furman's stories are more conspicuous by their absence: "[[The Magnificent Six!]]" from the 1991 annual was part of the Earthforce storyline, and the 1992 annual's "[[Another Time & Place]]" was effectively the original coda to his Marvel run. UK #302's "[[Dreadwind's Xmas!]]" is absent too, notable for focusing on Dreadwind's time [[Letters page (Marvel UK)|answering letters]] for Marvel UK.
*At most, only small extracts are given of the various profile books released over the years: Marvel's ''[[The Transformers Universe]]'', Dreamwave's ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye| More than Meets the Eye]]'', and IDW's ''[[Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook| Beast Wars Sourcebook]]'' and ''[[Hasbro Heroes Sourcebook]]''.
*None of the material released by [[3H Productions]] or [[Fun Publications]] was printed in this collection.
*Minor pack-in comics like [[Milton Bradley]]'s "[[In the Transformers]]", [[Metrodome]]'s "[[The Beast Within]]", Madman Entertainment's "[[The Transformers (Madman)|The Transformers]]" and IDW's "[[Rodimus vs. Cyclonus]]" are understandably left out.
*IDW's non-''G.I. Joe'' crossover miniseries are all omitted: ''[[New Avengers/Transformers]]'', ''[[Aw Yeah Revolution!]]'', ''[[Rom vs. Transformers: Shining Armor]]'', ''[[Transformers vs. Visionaries]]'', ''[[Angry Birds Transformers (comic)|Angry Birds Transformers]]'', ''[[Star Trek vs. Transformers]]'', and ''[[Transformers/Ghostbusters]]''. So too are most of the tie-ins to their once-annual multi-property events: ''[[Infestation 2]]'', ''[[Mars Attacks: The Transformers|Mars Attacks]]'', ''[[The X-Files: Conspiracy: The Transformers|The X-Files: Conspiracy]]'', and ''[[Transformers: Deviations| Deviations]]''.

Less forgivable is the omission of "[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe: The Movie Adaptation]]", and that of the four-page "[[Black Cybertron]]" prose story from [[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe issue 10|issue #10]]. The various prose stories, profiles and comics first printed with the collected editions of ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'' are also absent.

==Coloring==
Colorist John-Paul Bove, known for his work on ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One| Regeneration One]]'', was hired by Hatchette to give color to black-and-white UK-original stories. The first of these was "[[Raiders of the Last Ark]]", included in volume 1. Like many of the earliest UK strips, only some of its instalments were printed in color, but this was the only story not to be later colourised in a reprint at the time. For this collection, Bove colored the entire comic in a style as close to the original marker-pens as possible, with the only edits being to correct an error and to put [[Guardian (Marvel)|Guardian]]'s colors in line with the character's later appearances.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/282848/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "Raiders has been coloured to match as closely as possible the original. As far as I can tell the original was coloured in marker pen! This involved some exceptionally detailed hi res scans and taking the texture and colour choices from the original (including a Megs with a lot of gold!). There were two changes made to the originals, one was a colouring error pointed out by Mike Collins himself that affected the linework (see if you can spot it) that I corrected and the other was that the Guardian colours were changed to match all subsequent appearances. When he is taken down he is left a solid colour in that Yomtovy way of doing things."</ref>

For the black-and-white strips printed following the UK comic's format change in 1989, Bove colored the stories depending on whether their plots tied into the UK or the US continuity. He cites "[[Race with the Devil]]" (the first black-and-white story of this kind) and "[[Fallen Star!]]" as examples of US-relevant stories. Meanwhile stories like "[[Survivors]]" emulated the richer colour combinations employed by the UK teams.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/282848/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "As stated in the colour commentary in vol 3, the style of colouring for the strips depends entirely on the continuity it follows regardless of which country it originated in. So Race with the Devil and Fallen Star follow US continuity despite being a UK originated strip. So the colour ref will follow what was in the Underbase Saga and the stories containing the classic Pretenders (so background Soundwave is Magenta as Ed said). At a certain point along the way the UK was instructed to follow the US way of colouring, so the techniques becomes the same though the guys and gals in the UK were geniuses in making combinations to generate richer pallets. That's why Survivors etc has been done in a richer, denser style."</ref> "[[Aspects of Evil!]]" and the [[Earthforce]] stories were colored to look like they could've been rendered with inks and airbrushes.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/282848/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "For Aspects of Evil (coming soon!) the colouring style is not bound by continuity. I felt doing something like Regen would be too far removed from the time, but instead I have coloured it in a way that could have been rendered with inks and airbrush but that still feels modern without any computer trickery. It's a style based a little on contrast and is hopefully both bold and subtle."</ref>

In some cases, Bove made choices with regards to color schemes based on in-universe reasoning, most notably with [[Xaaron]] and [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] in volume 19.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/299016/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "With Xaaron I was pretty sure that his appearance here was chronologically the first we'd seen him so I decided to make him his UK colours and leave his all yellow look something he got shortly after. This was partly because his all yellow look was awful and there was enough wiggle room to do it. Soundwave on the other hand had appeared magenta before the events of Starscream's Pretender process and after so to change him to blue for this moment between other moments requires a bigger ask. There is a whole complicated reasoning that had to apply to Thunderwing precisely because he appears in different colours in between coloured appearances. I reasoned that he was burned then jumped into the sea which lead to one colour change, got repaired and recoloured when he got back to the ship and then got given a final upgrade when he got made leader. I spent forever working out a logic that would make sense of all the colour schemes he had that I had to jump between. There was definitely method to the madness and many, many hours were spent making it as consistent, justified and sympathetic as possible."</ref>

==Notes==
* The free gifts shipped to subscribers with the first five deliveries (each consisting of two isses - except the first, which included a third issue free) were:
** Autobot/Decepticon [[insignia]] keyrings!
** A wallet!
** A tin-plate version of the cover to "[[Dark Star]]", featuring a cosmically-empowered [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]]!
** A mug!
** A pair of metal Autobot/Decepticon insignia bookends!<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20170112033736/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* Before the partwork launched, the second free gift was advertised as an [[Insignia|Autobrand]] belt buckle.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20160914212214/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* The first issue collected "[[Target: 2006]]", and was coincidentally out at newsagents thirty years after the story originally ran.<ref>[http://thesolarpool.weebly.com/transformers-uk227.html Solar Pool]: "The Target: 2006 book is already out... if it doesn’t [finish], Target: 2006 was back on at least some newsagents shelves towards the end of its 30th anniversary week. How cool is that?"</ref>
* The printings of Marvel material aren't really identical to those released by IDW—for instance, issue 1 (volume 6 - confused yet?) includes various Marvel trademarks (such as the superheroes around the edge of the cover to "Heavy Traffic" and the kid wearing a Spider-Man t-shirt in "Decepticon Graffiti") which were painted out of IDW's reprints due to rights issues.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-10#post-14168736 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "The weird thing is, though, these '''aren't''' the IDW versions. The cover to Heavy Traffic has all the Marvel characters around the edge, and the little kid in Decepticon Graffiti is wearing his Spider-Man t-shirt. This stuff was painted out of the IDW trades due to rights issues with Marvel."</ref>

===Errors===
* When the website launched, it accidentally credited [[Andrew Wildman|Andrew ''Wlid''man]].
* Copies of the first issue provided to general retail and initial subscribers had an error on the spine, with the black volume number box at the top being the wrong size.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14249131 ultra badness on the TFW2005 forums]: "I just got an email from Hachette to say they had misprinted the spine art on issue 1. And hey will send a replacement. Hurrah! Im going to have 3 issues!"</ref> Subscribers received free corrected copies, while those who bought theirs at newsagents had to wait for replacements which were included with issue 7.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14256091 Magnus' Mate on TFW2005]: "Incidentally, the 'corrected' #1 will be available to non-subscribers as well, included free with issue #7!"</ref> Hachette were seen giving away error-stricken copies for free at a signing event at a London comic shop.<ref>[http://forums.millarworld.tv/t/the-trades-thread-hardcovers-graphic-novels-and-more/4923/2359 Millarworld forums (dead link)]</ref> This error shouldn't be confused with the change in spine art for the first four issues made between the limited trial run and the mass release,<ref>[http://www.facebook.com/TransformersG1Collection/posts/1533415153338562?comment_id=1533436356669775&reply_comment_id=1533593929987351 Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection on Facebook]</ref> which means that anyone who subscribed to the series from its trial will end up with ''three'' different copies of issue 1.
* The poster included with issue 1 includes a bio for [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]]... which uses an image of [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]].<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13983869 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "Also: the poster that comes with Volume 1 (Target: 2006) shows some small character bios but goofs up the "Jazz" bio by using a picture of Prowl."</ref>
* The trial versions of issues 1 and 2 had the inside cover art swapped: the "Target: 2006" book had artwork for ''Stormbringer'', and vice versa.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13989359 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "On anybody else's copies, is the inside cover art wrong? I've got Stormbringer art inside the Target:2006 book, and Target:2006 art inside the Stormbringer book."</ref>
* A feature in issue 1 states that the Marvel UK comic sold 200,000 copies per week, when really it only sold 100,000 per week ''at its peak''. This error presumably stems from the fact that Marvel (and other publishers at the time) multiplied their circulation figures by 2.5 to calculate their readership, as they estimated that many issues would be shared between friends and siblings.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>
* Hatchette's own masterings of the comics introduce yet more errors. In issue 1, for example, an instance of '[[Skids (G1)|]]' in dialogue is misspelled as 'Skips'.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14277882 Bass X0 on the TFW2005 forums]: "In Decepticon Graffiti, Skids is called Skips on the second page."</ref> This error was not present in IDW's original reprints.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-13#post-14316444 Magnus' Mate on the TFW2005 forums]: "Except the IDW "Transformers Classics" volume 2 with issue #23 in doesn't have this same problem - Skids is still Skids, not Skips! I know there are other problems with them, but this one is on Hachette."</ref>
* The bio for John Paul Bove included in issue 3 (volume 16) was apparently written by himself in the first person, then edited into the third person—one of the sentences written in first person remains!<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-8#post-14101771 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "There is also a half page bio on JP, which was obviously written by himself in the first person, and then edited to be the third person- but they missed one of the first person senetnces and it is still in there!"</ref>
* Some copies of volume 22 had a number erroneously printed on one of the pages.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-20#post-15179844 rodster6 on the TFW2005 forums]: "Got volume 7 today (which I think is issue 22) and there is a weird number printed randomly on one page that shouldn't be there."</ref>
* The first print run for volume 35 had an error where the last two pages of ''Monstrosity'' #11 were swapped with two from "War and Peace" #3.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-18#post-14880721 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "The last two pages of Monstrosity #11 have been swapped with the ones from W&P #3"</ref>
* Many volumes include pages which are stuck together, though this is easy enough for the reader to fix.
* Though some readers may try to convince you otherwise, [[Mister Johnson]] is not an error.

==Covers==
<center><gallery caption="Marvel (US & UK)" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v1.jpg|Vol 1: Power Play
DefinitiveG1Collection v2.jpg|Vol 2: New Order
DefinitiveG1Collection v3.jpg|Vol 3: Dinobot Hunt
DefinitiveG1Collection v4.jpg|Vol 4: Second Generation
DefinitiveG1Collection v5.jpg|Vol 5: The Smelting Pool
DefinitiveG1Collection v6.jpg|Vol 6: Target: 2006
DefinitiveG1Collection v7.jpg|Vol 7: The Harder They Die
DefinitiveG1Collection v8.jpg|Vol 8: Wanted: Galvatron - Dead or Alive
DefinitiveG1Collection v9.jpg|Vol 9: Toy Soldiers
DefinitiveG1Collection v10.jpg|Vol 10: Trial by Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v11.jpg|Vol 11: The Legacy of Unicron
DefinitiveG1Collection v12.jpg|Vol 12: Cosmic Carnival
DefinitiveG1Collection v13.jpg|Vol 13: City of Fear
DefinitiveG1Collection v14.jpg|Vol 14: Space Pirates
DefinitiveG1Collection v15.jpg|Vol 15: Time Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v16.jpg|Vol 16: The Primal Scream
DefinitiveG1Collection v17.jpg|Vol 17: Matrix Quest
DefinitiveG1Collection v18.jpg|Vol 18: Edge of Extinction
DefinitiveG1Collection v19.jpg|Vol 19: Perchance to Dream
DefinitiveG1Collection v20.jpg|Vol 20: End of the Road
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Marvel's Generation 2" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v89.jpg|Vol 89: Realignments
DefinitiveG1Collection v90.jpg|Vol 90: Generation 2 Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v91.jpg|Vol 91: Generation 2 Part 2
</gallery>
<gallery caption="IDW's Regeneration One" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v21.jpg|Vol 21: Regeneration One
DefinitiveG1Collection v22.jpg|Vol 22: Natural Selection
DefinitiveG1Collection v23.jpg|Vol 23: Destiny
DefinitiveG1Collection v24.jpg|Vol 24: The War to End All Wars
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Dreamwave Productions" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v25.jpg|Vol 25: Prime Directive
DefinitiveG1Collection v26.jpg|Vol 26: War and Peace
DefinitiveG1Collection v27.jpg|Vol 27: Worlds Collide Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v28.jpg|Vol 28: Worlds Collide Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v29.jpg|Vol 29: The War Within
DefinitiveG1Collection v30.jpg|Vol 30: War Within: The Dark Ages
DefinitiveG1Collection v31.jpg|Vol 31: The Iron Fist
</gallery>

<gallery caption="2005 IDW continuity" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v32.jpg|Vol 32: Infiltration
DefinitiveG1Collection v33.jpg|Vol 33: Megatron Origin
DefinitiveG1Collection v34.jpg|Vol 34: Autocracy
DefinitiveG1Collection v35.jpg|Vol 35: Primacy
DefinitiveG1Collection v36.jpg|Vol 36: Stormbringer
DefinitiveG1Collection v37.jpg|Vol 37: Escalation
DefinitiveG1Collection v38.jpg|Vol 38: Devastation
DefinitiveG1Collection v39.jpg|Vol 39: Hearts of Steel
DefinitiveG1Collection v40.jpg|Vol 40: Maximum Dinobots
DefinitiveG1Collection v41.jpg|Vol 41: Drift
DefinitiveG1Collection v42.jpg|Vol 42: Revelation
DefinitiveG1Collection v43.jpg|Vol 43: All Hail Megatron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v44.jpg|Vol 44: All Hail Megatron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v45.jpg|Vol 45: Last Stand of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v46.jpg|Vol 46: Things Fall Apart
DefinitiveG1Collection v47.jpg|Vol 47: International Incident
DefinitiveG1Collection v48.jpg|Vol 48: Revenge of the Decepticons
DefinitiveG1Collection v49.jpg|Vol 49: The Iron Age
DefinitiveG1Collection v50.jpg|Vol 50: Heart of Darkness
DefinitiveG1Collection v51.jpg|Vol 51: Chaos Theory
DefinitiveG1Collection v52.jpg|Vol 52: The Death of Optimus Prime
DefinitiveG1Collection v53.jpg|Vol 53: Liars, A to D
DefinitiveG1Collection v54.jpg|Vol 54: A Better Tomorrow
DefinitiveG1Collection v55.jpg|Vol 55: Shadowplay
DefinitiveG1Collection v56.jpg|Vol 56: City On Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v57.jpg|Vol 57: Remain In Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v58.jpg|Vol 58: Shockpoint
DefinitiveG1Collection v59.jpg|Vol 59: Dark Cybertron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v60.jpg|Vol 60: Dark Cybertron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v61.jpg|Vol 61: World Shut Your Mouth
DefinitiveG1Collection v62.jpg|Vol 62: Earthfall
DefinitiveG1Collection v63.jpg|Vol 63: Elegant Chaos
DefinitiveG1Collection v64.jpg|Vol 64: Windblade
DefinitiveG1Collection v65.jpg|Vol 65: Combiner Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v66.jpg|Vol 66: Speak, Memory
DefinitiveG1Collection v67.jpg|Vol 67: Conquerors
DefinitiveG1Collection v68.jpg|Vol 68: Empire of Stone
DefinitiveG1Collection v69.jpg|Vol 69: Sins of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v70.jpg|Vol 70: Punishment
DefinitiveG1Collection v71.jpg|Vol 71: All Hail Optimus
DefinitiveG1Collection v72.jpg|Vol 72: The Dying of the Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v75.jpg|Vol 75: Titans Return, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v76.jpg|Vol 76: Titans Return, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v77.jpg|Vol 77: Dissolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v78.jpg|Vol 78: New Cybertron
DefinitiveG1Collection v79.jpg|Vol 79: Primeless
DefinitiveG1Collection v80.jpg|Vol 80: Requiem of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v81.jpg|Vol 81: Revolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v82.jpg|Vol 82: Revolutionaries
DefinitiveG1Collection v83.jpg|Vol 83: First Strike
DefinitiveG1Collection v84.jpg|Vol 84: The Falling Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v85.jpg|Vol 85: The Falling Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v86.jpg|Vol 86: The Everlasting Voices
DefinitiveG1Collection v87.jpg|Vol 87: Crucible
DefinitiveG1Collection v88.jpg|Vol 88: Unicron
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Miscellaneous" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v73.jpg|Vol 73: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v74.jpg|Vol 74: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v92.jpg|Vol 92: Transformers: The Movie
DefinitiveG1Collection v93.jpg|Vol 93: Beast Wars: The Gathering

DefinitiveG1Collection v95.jpg|Vol 95: G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v96.jpg|Vol 96: G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 2

</gallery>






''[[:Category:Definitive G1 Collection covers|Extended cover gallery]]''</center>

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

==External links==
*[http://www.transformerscollection.com/ Official website]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Definitive G1 Collection}}
[[Category:Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics continuity comic compilations]]
[[Category:Dreamwave Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Generation 1 comic compilations]]

Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection

2020-08-01T08:53:22Z

YoungDoctor: /* Volumes */

[[File:Definitive G1 Collection in full.jpg|thumb|upright=3.05|4/5 of a grand tale.]]

'''Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection''' is a fortnightly 100-volume partwork from [[Hachette]], edited by [[Simon Furman]]. Partworks are a Hachette specialty: a series will be collected out of order (the first ''Definitive'' was volume 6) for commercial purposes but can be collected on your shelf in order with a fancy picture on the collective spines. The collection aims to republish every single "Generation 1" comic ever made, including the original [[Marvel Comics]] run—UK and US—in order for the very first time. Each issue has a special cover and bonus content, and [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)#Fantastic Free Gift.21|Fantastic FREE! Gifts]] are provided for subscribers. Marvel UK strips which were originally printed in black-and-white have been given brand new colours by [[John-Paul Bove]] using emulations of both 1980s American and latter-day Marvel UK techniques.<ref>"A Different Approach to Colour", Vol.16</ref>

The series was initially announced in September 2016 to contain 60 issues—ending with the ''Dark Cybertron'' crossover—but by the time of its launch in December, it had already been extended to 80 issues, with volume 80 providing some closure in the form of ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One| Till All Are One]]'' and ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers| Requiem of the Wreckers]]''. In 2018, upon the conclusion of IDW's first continuity, fans observed that it would take around ten extra volumes to reprint the entire IDW catalogue—and on the 18th of July 2019, Simon Furman confirmed on Twitter that the collection had been extended by ''twenty'' issues for a total of 100.

Sounds great, right?

Well... not if you live outside the [[United Kingdom]] and [[Ireland]]. The partwork was given a trial-run in parts of the UK before a national release started in early 2017. In August 2017, the subscription also became available in [[Australia]],<ref>[http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?s=438cea1ad48786466241053a45f743ae&t=24685 Ozformers Transformers Club of Australia]: UK Definitive Comic collection from Hachette now in Australia</ref> but became unavailable in July 2018 due to the closure of the Australian distributor. In January 2019, it became available in [[Poland]],<ref>[https://transformers-kolekcja.pl/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIrYTRuabz3wIVl-F3Ch2P7wirEAAYASAAEgJKLvD_BwE Polish version of official site]</ref> with volumes being released in proper chronological order.

Even for those who were able to subscribe, the partwork ended up not being quite as ''definitive'' as advertised, suffering from strange ordering and editorial choices, and from some major printing errors. Hachette's notoriously-bad customer service made it a nightmare to obtain corrected replacements.

==Volumes==
{{note|Each volume contains cover art from the original issues, plus a new introduction by Simon Furman. The bonus features below are in addition to these.}}
{| class="wikitable sortable"
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Vol.
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Issue
! scope="col" style="width: 125px;" | Title
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Contents
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Bonus Features
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Release date
|-
| 06
| 01
|Target: 2006
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Target: 2006|#78–83]] "[[Cybertron: The Middle Years!]]" Marvel UK [[Target: 2006|#84–88]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Aerialbots over America!|#21]]–[[Decepticon Graffiti!|23]]
| A guide to the launch of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' in the UK and its marketing purposes for Marvel UK, a "Meet... The [[Wrecker]]s" feature, a behind-the-scenes look at the development of "Target: 2006", and a spotlight on [[Geoff Senior]].
|[[December 30|30/12]]/[[2016]]
|-
| 36
| 02
| Stormbringer
| ''[[Spotlight: Shockwave]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Soundwave]]'' [[The Transformers: Stormbringer|''Stormbringer'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Nightbeat]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Hot Rod]]''
| An article on the beginning of IDW-verse production and several sketches by Figueroa.
|[[January 11|11/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 16
| 03
| The Primal Scream
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Cold Comfort and Joy!|#198]], [[The Fall and Rise of the Decepticon Empire.|#213]]–[[Survivors!|222]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Back from the Dead|#56]]–[[The Primal Scream|61]]
| An overview of the change in format of the UK series and the introduction of 5-page black-and-white strips, and an article by Bove on the colouring techniques used at Marvel UK and Marvel US in the 1980s, and how he emulated them for colourising the UK strips.
|[[January 27|27/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 18
| 04
| Edge of Extinction
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Rhythms of Darkness!|#67]]–[[On the Edge of Extinction!|75]]
| An overview of [[Unicron/Generation 1#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel's Unicron]] and a spotlight on [[Andrew Wildman]].
|[[February 8|08/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 29
| 05
| The War Within
| [[Transformers: The War Within|The War Within #1–6]] and [[The War Within Preview|preview]]
| Various character design sketches by [[Don Figueroa]] and an article on the making of ''The War Within''.
|[[February 22|22/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 37
| 06
| Escalation
| ''[[Spotlight: Sixshot]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Ultra Magnus]]'' [[The Transformers: Escalation|''Escalation'' #1–6]]
| Sketches by [[E. J. Su]], bios on [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|IDW Ultra Magnus]] & [[Sixshot (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Sixshot]], an article on creating the IDW ''Spotlights'', and an interview with Su. 
|[[March 8|08/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 08
| 07
| Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive!|#113]]–[[Fire on High!|120]] "[[Vicious Circle!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[King of the Hill!|#27]]–[[Mechanical Difficulties!|28]]
| An overview of the Marvel UK Annuals and a bio on [[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Goldbug]].
|[[March 22|22/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 39
| 08
| Hearts of Steel
| [[Hearts of Steel|''Hearts of Steel'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Galvatron]], [[Spotlight: Optimus Prime]], [[Spotlight: Mirage]]''
| Concept art by [[Guido Guidi]] and an article about the creation of ''Hearts of Steel''.
|[[April 5|05/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 10
| 09
| Trial by Fire
| [[The Transformers: Headmasters|Headmasters #1–4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Trial by Fire!|#38]]–[[The Desert Island of Space!|39]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Worlds Apart!|#130]]–[[Kup's Story!|132]]
| A retrospective on the [[The Transformers: Headmasters|''Headmasters'' miniseries]] and an overview of how Marvel UK handled toy marketing.
| [[April 19|19/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 21
| 10
| Regeneration One
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Counterpoint|#80.5]]–[[Loose Ends, Part 5|85]]
| A commentary on [[Loose Ends, Part 1|issue #81]] by Simon Furman, an overview on production leading up to ''Regeneration One'', and several cover sketches.
| [[May 3|03/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 31
| 11
| The Iron Fist
| [[Transformers/G.I. Joe|Transformers/G.I. Joe #1–6]]
| Various character design sketches by Figueroa and an overview of the many [[G.I. Joe crossovers]] across the comics.
| [[May 17|17/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 50
| 12
| Heart of Darkness
| [[The Transformers: Heart of Darkness|''Heart of Darkness'' #1–4]] [[Infestation (IDW)|''The Transformers: Infestation'' #1–2]]
| A post-mortem on "[[Zombie|Zombots]]" across the various comics and a bio on [[Hardhead (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Hardhead]].
| [[May 31|31/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 59
| 13
| Dark Cybertron, Part 1
| [[Dark Dawn: Dark Cybertron Chapter 1|''Dark Cybertron'' one-shot]] [[Little Victories|''More than Meets the Eye'' #22]]–[[No Exit: Dark Cybertron Chapter 6|25]] [[Winners & Losers: Dark Cybertron Chapter 3|''Robots in Disguise'' #23]]–[[Finest Hour: Dark Cybertron Chapter 5|24]]
| A bio on the [[Titan (group)|Titans]] and the making of ''Dark Cybertron'' with [[John Barber]] and James Roberts.
| [[June 14|14/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 01
| 14
| Power Play
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Transformers (issue)|#1]]–[[The Last Stand|4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Man of Iron (issue)|#9]]–[[Raiders of the Last Ark|21]]
| The alternate ending of [[The Last Stand|Marvel US #4]], unused artwork from [[The Transformers (issue)|issue #1]] by [[Frank Springer]], and an overview of how Marvel UK first approached The Transformers.
| [[June 28|28/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 26
| 15
| War and Peace
| ''[[War and Peace|Transformers: Generation 1 vol. 2]]'' #1–6 and [[Transformers Volume 2 Preview|preview]]
| Top 10 Easter eggs for "[[War and Peace]]" and scorecards listing each faction and their crew members during the arc.
| [[July 12|12/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 35
| 16
| Primacy
| [[The Transformers: Monstrosity|''Monstrosity'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Primacy|''Primacy'' #1–4]]
| An interview with [[Flint Dille]] about his work on the G1 cartoon and his involvement in the ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy|Autocracy]]'' trilogy.
| [[July 26|26/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 64
| 17
| Windblade
| [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 1 #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[Onyx Interface Part One: Signals, Calls, and Marches|#35]]–[[The Onyx Interface Conclusion: The Obliterati|38]]
| A bio for [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]], an overview of her conception, pictures of her ''[[Thrilling 30]]'' toy, and early design sketches by Hasbro.
| [[August 9|09/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 19
| 18
| Perchance to Dream
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Out to Lunch!|#240]]–[[...Perchance to Dream|260]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Still Life!|#76]]–[[Exodus!|77]]
| A Marvel UK ''Classic Heroes Competition!'' page, an overview of Furman's attempts to connect Marvel UK's black-and-white strips to the US stories and how he would eventually have to abandon doing so, an article on the "[[Two Megatrons!]]" confusion, and a bio on [[Thunderwing (G1)#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Thunderwing]].
| [[August 23|23/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 40
| 19
| Maximum Dinobots
| [[The Transformers: Maximum Dinobots|''Maximum Dinobots'' #1–5]] ''[[Spotlight: Grimlock]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Wheelie]]''
| Dinobot sketches by [[Nick Roche]] and [[Klaus Scherwinski]]'s ''Spotlight: Wheelie'' sketchbook.
| [[September 6|06/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 22
| 20
| Natural Selection
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Natural Selection, Part One|#86]]–[[Natural Selection, Part Five|90]] "[[Peace]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]])
| An overview of the [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Marvel ''Generation 2'' comic]] and several cover sketches.
| [[September 20|20/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 46
| 21
| Things Fall Apart
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Things Fall Apart, Part 1: "New Arrivals, Old Encounters"|#2]]–[[Scrapper (issue)|8]]
| Character design sketches by Figueroa, an extract from ''[[Decepticomments]]'' from [[Things Fall Apart, Part 3: "Seasons in Flight"|''The Transformers'' #4]] by [[Mike Costa]], and a bio on [[Swindle (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Swindle]].
| [[October 4|04/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 07
| 22
| The Harder They Die
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Prey!|#96]]–[[Resurrection!|104]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Afterdeath!|#24]]–[[Funeral for a Friend!|26]]
| An analysis of [[the many deaths of Optimus Prime]] in Generation 1.
| [[October 18|18/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 33
| 23
| Megatron: Origin
| [[The Transformers: Megatron Origin|''Megatron: Origin'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Blurr]]'', ''[[Omega's Conundrum|Spotlight: Orion Pax]]''
| A discussion of the production stages on ''Megatron: Origin'' by [[Eric Holmes]].
| [[November 1|01/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 14
| 24
| Space Pirates
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Wrecking Havoc|#172–173]], [[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|#180]]–[[Dry Run!|189]] "[[Altered Image!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Man in the Machine!|#51]]
| How Marvel UK incorporated ''[[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|The Big Broadcast of 2006]]'' (US issue #43) into their timeline.
| [[November 15|15/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 43
| 25
| All Hail Megatron, Part 1
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #1–8]]
| An article on creating ''All Hail Megatron'', character design sketches by Guidi, and the series pitch by [[Shane McCarthy]].
| [[November 29|29/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 52
| 26
| The Death of Optimus Prime
| [[Chaos (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1 #24, 26, 28, 30, 31]] ''[[Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime|The Death of Optimus Prime]]''
| An interview with [[James Roberts]] on how he worked his way up to become an ongoing writer, and character design sketches by [[Livio Ramondelli]].
| [[December 13|13/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 44
| 27
| All Hail Megatron, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #9–16]]
| A ''Decepticon Roll Call'' with mini-bios, and trivia about ''All Hail Megatron'' [[All Hail Megatron issue 13|#13]]–[[All Hail Megatron issue 16|16]], pointing out notable plot points in the ''Coda'' issues.
| [[December 27|27/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 20
| 28
| End of the Road
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[A Savage Circle|#78]]–[[End of the Road! (US)|80]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Starting Over!|#261]]–[[End of the Road! (UK)|289]]
| Articles about the ends of the US and UK series, including discussion of "[[Another Time & Place]]," the final letters page from #80, and script pages from #80.
| [[January 10|10/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 72
| 29
| The Dying of the Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Dying of the Light: (1) How Bright Their Frail Deeds|#50]]–[[The Dying of the Light Part 6: Do Not Go Gentle|55]]
| The bonus story "[[No Guns, No Swords, No Briefcases]] and essential background material on the [[Decepticon Justice Division|DJD]]
| [[January 24|24/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 75
| 30
| Titans Return, Part 1
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[07:00:00|#1]]–[[The Line Between Us|4]] [[The Last Autobot|''Titans Return'' one-shot]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[White Light|#56]]–[[White Heat|57]] ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Ten to Midnight|#56]]–[[Last Light (issue)|57]]
| "Creating the IDW-Verse" — a two-page article on the beginning of ''More than Meets the Eye'' and ''Robots in Disguise''.
| [[February 7|07/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 60
| 31
| Dark Cybertron, Part 2
| [[The Dead Are Not Enough: Dark Cybertron Chapter 7|''Robots in Disguise'' #25]]–[[Black Planet: Dark Cybertron Chapter 11|27]] [[Burning Bright: Dark Cybertron Chapter 8|''More than Meets the Eye'' #26]]–[[The Becoming: Dark Cybertron Chapter 10|27]] [[...And the Damage Done: Dark Cybertron Finale|''Dark Cybertron: Finale'' one-shot]]
| A blow-by-blow account of Dark Cybertron's hidden secrets
| [[February 21|21/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 71
| 32
| All Hail Optimus
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[All Hail Optimus Part 1: Once Upon a Time on Earth|#50]]–[[All Hail Optimus Part 6: No Fair Fights|55]]
| Background material on the [[Council of Worlds]]
| [[March 7|07/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 02
| 33
| New Order
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The New Order|#5]]–[[Repeat Performance!|8]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Decepticon Dam-Busters!|#29]]–[[The Wrath of Grimlock!|32]] Marvel US [[DIS-Integrated Circuits!|#9]]–[[The Next Best Thing to Being There!|10]] "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1995]])
| Insights into Marvel UK's efforts to ease the transition between the US and UK material
| [[March 21|21/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 03
| 34
| Dinobot Hunt
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Christmas Breaker!|#41]]–[[Dinobot Hunt!|50]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Brainstorm!|#11]]–[[Prime Time!|12]]
| A look at the UK [[Christmas]] story tradition
| [[April 4|04/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 23
| 35
| Destiny
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Destiny, Part One|#91]]–[[Destiny, Part Five|95]], [[Less Than Zero|#0]] "[[Destiny of the Dinobots!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| A feature on Regeneration One issue #0 and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[April 18|18/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 30
| 36
| War Within: The Dark Ages
| [[Transformers: War Within: The Dark Ages|''War Within: The Dark Ages'' #1–6]]
| Synopsis of ''[[Transformers: War Within: The Age of Wrath|War Within: the Age of Wrath]]'', including art from unfinished issues.
| [[May 2|02/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 45
| 37
| Last Stand of the Wreckers
| [[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|''Last Stand of the Wreckers'' #1–5]] ''[[Ride-Along|Spotlight: Prowl]]'' [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[...For All Mankind|#1]]
| Interview with [[Nick Roche]], pre-production sketches and story drafts
| [[May 16|16/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 49
| 38
| The Iron Age
| [[The Transformers: Ironhide|''Ironhide'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Space Opera Part 1: The Stars My Destination|#19]]–[[Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix|21 ("Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix" only)]].
| Casey Coller's ''Ironhide'' sketchbook
| [[May 30|30/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 11
| 39
| The Legacy of Unicron
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Headhunt|#133–134]] "[[What's in a Name?]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) Marvel UK [[Grudge Match!|#135]]–[[Ladies' Night (issue)|138]], [[The Legacy of Unicron!|#146–151]] "[[Ark Duty]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Pretender to the Throne!|#40]]–[[Totaled!|41]]
| A feature on the origins of the origin of the Transformers
| [[June 13|13/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 17
| 40
| Matrix Quest
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Bird of Prey!|#62]]–[[All Fall Down|66]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Aspects of Evil!|#223]]–[[A Savage Place!|239]] "[[The Chain Gang!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| Features on the stories behind "Matrix Quest" and, Marvel UK's crossover "[[Deathbringer (Marvel)|Deathbringer]]" saga
| [[June 27|27/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 73
| 41
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 1
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[The Golden Boys|#0]]–[[Headmasters (issue)|7]]
| A creator commentary on issue #0 and an exclusive interview with [[Tom Scioli]]
| [[July 11|11/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 76
| 42
| Titans Return, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]] [[Ping|#5]]–[[If I Know You|11]]
| Article on ''[[Revolution]]''
| [[July 25|25/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 62
| 43
| Earthfall
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Earthfall Part 1: Hello Cruel World|#28]]–[[The Crucible|34]]
| The lowdown on the (new) human cast and rare promotional posters for the [[Dawn of the Autobots]] event
| [[August 8|08/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 04
| 44
| Second Generation
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Shooting Star!|#13]]–[[Plight of the Bumblebee!|16]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Robot Buster!|#59]]–[[Second Generation!|65]] "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]])
| The story behind Marvel UK's Special Teams promotion
| [[August 22|22/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 32
| 45
| Infiltration
| [[The Transformers: Infiltration|''Infiltration'' #0–6]]
| An article on "Creating the IDW-Verse: From the Ground Up", "The Pitch" - Furman's original pitch to IDW for Infiltration, and some sketches by [[E. J. Su]].
| [[September 5|05/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 24
| 46
| The War to End All Wars
| ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]]'' [[The War to End All Wars, Part 1|#96]]–[[The War to End All Wars, Part 5|100]]
| the prose story "[[King of Shadows]]" and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[September 19|19/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 28
| 47
| Worlds Collide Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Worlds Collide|#14]]–[[The_End|18]] [[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye#Issue .238|Dreamwave's ''More than Meets the Eye'' #8]]
| A brief overview of Dreamwave's [[Transformers: Energon (comic)|Energon comic]] and a bonus glossary section dedicated entirely to background material from the Dreamwave G1-verse
| [[October 3|03/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 42
| 48
| Revelation
| ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]: [[Spotlight: Arcee|Arcee]], [[Spotlight: Cyclonus|Cyclonus]], [[Spotlight: Hardhead|Hardhead]], [[Spotlight: Doubledealer|Doubledealer]], [[Spotlight: Sideswipe|Sideswipe]], [[Spotlight: Jazz|Jazz]], [[Spotlight: Metroplex|Metroplex]]''
| "-Ations" retrospective, sketchbook art from Alex Milne and E. J. Su reprinted from individual ''Spotlights''
| [[October 17|17/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 65
| 49
| Combiner Wars
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[First Contact (IDW)|#39]]–[[Now and On Earth|42]] [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2 #1–4]]
| An article on the [[Prime Wars Trilogy]]
| [[October 31|31/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 79
| 50
| Primeless
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Life of Sideswipe|#9]]–[[Primeless, Part 2|12]] ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light|Lost Light]]'' [[Chasing the Infinite|#9]]–[[The Plotters' Club (Part 3): Journey's End|12]]
| A one-page editorial by Simon Furman that mentions the IDW universe's impending end
| [[November 14|14/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 12
| 51
| Cosmic Carnival
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Enemy Action!|#152–153]], [[Salvage!|#160–161]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[People Power!|#42]], [[The Cosmic Carnival|44]]–[[Ca$h and Car-nage!|46]] Marvel UK [[Stargazing|#145]]
| A behind-the-scenes look at the UK-only return of Megatron
| [[November 28|28/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 25
| 52
| Prime Directive
| [[Prime Directive|''Tranformers: Generation 1'' vol. 1 #1–6]] (plus [[Prime Directive Preview|Preview]])
| A two-page article on 'the in-between years' covering the time when no-one had the ''Transformers'' licence for comics.
| [[December 12|12/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 53
| 53
| Liars, A to D
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Liars, A to D Part 1: How to Say Goodbye and Mean It|#1]]–[[Interiors|6]], ''[[The Reluctant Specialist|Spotlight: Trailcutter]]'' and ''[[The Waiting Game|Spotlight: Hoist]]''
| An all-new interview with James Roberts, rare archive material from the dawn of MTMTE, Alex Milne's sketchbook.
| [[December 26|26/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 55
| 54
| Shadowplay
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Rules of Disengagement (issue)|#7]]–[[More than Meets the Eye issue 13|13]], plus the [[Primus: You, Me, and Other Revelations|2012 Annual]]
| The second of a new three-part interview with Roberts, early pages of scripts, and design sketches from Alex Milne.
| [[January 9|09/01]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 13
| 55
| City of Fear
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[City of Fear!|#164]]–[[Deadly Games!|171]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Club Con!|#47]]–[[Dark Star|50]] "[[Dreadwing Down!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]]) "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1985]])
| A behind-the scenes look at a sea change moment for the US comic (Furman's takeover as head writer) and a [[Bob Budiansky]] sketchbook.
| [[January 23|23/01]]/2019
|-
| 41
| 56
| Drift
| [[The Transformers: Drift|''The Transformers: Drift'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlight:]] ''[[Spotlight: Drift|Drift]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Blaster]]''
| An article on creating Drift and some design sketches by [[Guido Guidi]].
| [[February 6|06/02]]/2019
|-
| 74
| 57
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[Pax Megatronus|#8]]–[[The War Never Ends|13]]
| No extras, but still has the cover art and intro from Furman present on all issues.
| [[February 20|20/02]]/2019
|-
| 47
| 58
| International Incident
| [[The Transformers: Bumblebee|''The Transformers: Bumblebee'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[International Incident Part 1: "The Land Ironclads"|#9]]–[[International Incident Part 4: "All My Sins Remembered"|12]]
| An interview with [[Zander Cannon]] and breakdowns for pages 1–4 of each issue of the ''Bumblebee'' mini-series.
| [[March 6|06/03]]/2019
|-
| 05
| 59
| The Smelting Pool
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Smelting Pool!|#17]]–[[Showdown!|20]] "[[Victory!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[In the National Interest|#74–77]]
|Background material on the [[Cybertron (planet)|planet Cybertron]] with map.
| [[March 20|20/03]]/2019
|-
| 54
| 60
| A Better Tomorrow
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[The Autonomy Lesson (issue)|#1]]–[[Interference Patterns|7]]
| A new interview with [[John Barber]]
| [[April 3|03/04]]/2019
|-
| 48
| 61
| Revenge of the Decepticons
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Heart Like a Wheel|#13]]–[[Revenge of the Decepticons Part 5: Enemy Mine|18]] ''[[Spotlight: Megatron]]''
| A ''Spotlight: Megatron'' sketchbook
| [[April 17|17/04]]/2019
|-
| 15
| 62
| Time Wars
| "[[All in the Minds!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Time Wars|#199–205]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Guess Who the Mecannibals Are Having for Dinner?|#52]]–[[The Interplanetary Wrestling Championship!|55]]
| A behind-the-scenes look at Galvatron's storyline
| [[May 1|01/05]]/2019
|-
| 58
| 63
| Shockpoint
|[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]] #[[Plan for Everything|15]]–[[Soundwaves (issue)|22]]
| A 2-page history of IDW Shockwave's history-setting plans.
| [[May 15|15/05]]/2019
|-
| 80
| 64
| Requiem of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[Your First Mistake|#12]] [[The Chosen One|''Till Are Are One'' Annual]] [[Ghost Stories|2017 ''Transformers'' Annual]] ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers|Requiem of the Wreckers]]''
| Wreckers sketchbook and notebook material from [[Nick Roche]].
| [[May 29|29/05]]/2019
|-
| 63
| 65
| Elegant Chaos
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Custom-Made Now - An Elegant Chaos Prologue|#35]]–[[The Frail Gaze|42]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[June 12|12/06]]/2019
|-
| 09
| 66
| Toy Soldiers
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Ancient Relics!|#125 and ''Action Force'' #24–27]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Crater Critters|#29]]–[[Used Autobots|32]], [[Child%27s_Play_(issue)|#35]]–[[Toy Soldiers!|37]]
| A one-page behind-the-scenes feature on "[[Man of Iron (issue)|Man of Iron]]" and how it got reprinted in the US comic.
| [[June 26|26/06]]/2019
|-
| 78
| 67
| New Cybertron
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[New Cybertron Part 1: To Walk Among the Chosen|#1]]–[[What It's Really Like|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Kei Zama]]
| [[July 10|10/07]]/2019
|-
| 67
| 68
| Conquerors
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[South of Heaven|#43]]–[[Conquerors Part 4: Perihelion|49]] ''[[An Uneventful Night|Combiner Hunters]]'' one-shot
| Development art by [[Andrew Griffith]]
| [[July 24|24/07]]/2019
|-
| 38
| 69
| Devastation
| ''[[The Transformers: Devastation]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]'' for [[Spotlight: Kup|Kup]], [[Spotlight: Ramjet|Ramjet]] and [[Spotlight: Cliffjumper|Cliffjumper]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 7|07/08]]/2019
|-
| 57
| 70
| Remain in Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Remembrance Day|#14]]–[[Remain in Light 5 of 5: This Calamitous Life|21]] Prose stories "[[Signal to Noise]]" and "[[The Sound of Breaking Glass]]"
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 21|21/08]]/2019
|-
| 77
| 71
| Dissolution
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Dissolution Part 1: Some Other Cybertron|#1]]–[[An Axe to Break the Ice|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Jack Lawrence]]
| [[September 4|04/09]]/2019
|-
| 69
| 72
| Sins of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Sins of the Wreckers|Sins of the Wreckers]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers Holiday Special]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[September 18|18/09]]/2019
|-
| 56
| 73
| City On Fire
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Dinobot Hunt (IDW)|#8]]–[[Before the Dawn|14]] [[Primus: All Good Things|2012 Annual]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[October 2|02/10]]/2019
|-
| 34
| 74
| Autocracy
| ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy]]'' miniseries ''[[The Hunting Party (IDW)|Spotlight: Thundercracker]]''
| A one-page article on ''Autocracy'', including an interview with co-writer [[Chris Metzen]].
| [[October 16|16/10]]/2019
|-
| 70
| 75
| Punishment
| ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Redemption]]'' one-shot ''[[The Transformers: Salvation]]'' one-shot
| An article about the Motion Book Tool app used for the digital version of ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'', a "Brief History of the (IDW) Dinobots", and a [[Livio Ramondelli]] sketchbook.
| [[October 30|30/10]]/2019
|-
| 27
| 76
| Worlds Collide Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_8|#8]]–[[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_13|13]] [[More_than_Meets_the_Eye:_Transformers:_Armada|''More than Meets the Eye: Armada'' ]] (select material)
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 13|13/11]]/2019
|-
| 68
| 77
| Empire of Stone
| ''[[The Transformers: Drift - Empire of Stone|Drift - Empire of Stone]]'' miniseries [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2]] issues 5–7
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 27|27/11]]/2019
|-
| 51
| 78
| Chaos Theory
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Police Action: Prologue|#21 ("Police Action: Prologue" only)]], [[Chaos Theory Part 1|#22–23]], [[Police Action: Part 1|25]], [[Police Action Part 2: Only Forward|27]], [[Police Action Part 3: A Second Chance at Eden|29]] [[The Question|Spotlight: Bumblebee]]
| A one-page article exploring the origins of the "[[Chaos (IDW)|Chaos]]" arc and beyond.
| [[December 11|11/12]]/2019
|-
| 66
| 79
| Speak, Memory
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The One Where They Go to Earth|#43]]–[[Speak, Memory! (Part 2)|49]]
| A one-page article about the [[Scavenger (group)|Scavengers]].
| [[December 25|25/12]]/2019
|-
| 61
| 80
| World, Shut Your Mouth
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[World, Shut Your Mouth Part 1: Towards Peace|#28]]–[[Births, Deaths, and Interventions|34]]
| A page of "Season 2" character posters.
| [[January 8|08/01]]/[[2020]]
|-
| 84
| 81
| The Falling: Part 1
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Dead Come Home, Part 1 (of 2)|#13]]–[[The Falling, Chapter 3: The Ground|17]] ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[Starscream: The Movie (comic)|Annual 2018]]
| A one-page article about the Primes.
| [[January 22|22/01]]/2020
|-
| 90
| 82
| Generation 2: Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[Ghosts|#0]]–[[The Gathering Darkness|6]]
| An article about [[Fleetway]]'s [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Fleetway)|UK ''Generation 2'' comic]], including [small-scale scans of] "[[War Without End (issue)|War Without End]]", their first UK-original ''G2'' strip.
| [[February 5|05/02]]/2020
|-
| 81
| 83
| Revolution
| ''[[Revolution]]'' [[Secret Raiders: A Revolution Prelude|#0]]–[[Valley Forge|5]] ''[[Thundercracker & Buster Save the World|The Transformers]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Informed|Till All Are One]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Nothing Will Ever Be the Same Again!|More than Meets the Eye]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro.
| [[February 19|19/02]]/2020
|-
| 89
| 84
| Realignments
| ''[[G.I. Joe and the Transformers (comic)|G.I. Joe and the Transformers]]'' [[Blood on the Tracks|#1]]–[[...All Fall Down!|4]] [[G.I. Joe (comic)|Marvel's ''G.I. Joe'']] [[Unfoldings!|#138]]–[[Final Transformations|142]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[March 4|04/03]]/2020
|-
| 82
| 85
| Revolutionaries
| ''[[Revolutionaries]]'' [[Crisis Intervention|#1]]–[[Ghost in the Machine (IDW)|8]]
| A two-page timeline of major IDW continuity events from issue #1, and the character profiles also from issue #1.
| [[March 18|18/03]]/2020
|-
| 92
| 86
| Transformers: The Movie
| [[Transformers: The Movie (Marvel comic)|Marvel's adaption]] of [[The Transformers: The Movie|the 1986 animated movie]] [[Transformers: The Animated Movie|IDW's adaption]] of that same movie
| A one-page article about the movie-verse in comics.
| [[April 1|01/04]]/2020
|-
| 83
| 87
| First Strike
| ''[[First Strike]]'' [[First Strike issue 0|#0]]–[[First Strike issue 6|6]] [[Unification Day: Dusk|First Strike: Transformers]] one-shot [[Unification Day: Dawn|First Strike: Optimus Prime]] one-shot
| A one-page "Prelude to...Unicron!" article, preceding the reprint of "[[First Strike issue 6#Coda: "The Signal"|The Signal]]".
| [[April 22|22/04]]/2020
|-
| 95
| 88
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 1
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers'' #1–6]]
| A one-page article about Devil's Due, a two-page article about creating the "Devil's Due-verse" and three pages of [[Mike S. Miller]]'s sketchbook art.
| [[May 13|13/05]]/2020
|-
| 85
| 89
| The Falling, Part 2
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Falling, Interlude: The First Who Was Named|#18]]–[[A Sunrise Dark|24]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[June 3|03/06]]/2020
|-
| 93
| 90
| Beast Wars: The Gathering
| [[Transformers, Beast Wars: The Gathering|''Beast Wars: The Gathering'' #1–4]]
and material from [[Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook]]
| An introduction by [[Ben Yee]], a 2-page "Unleash the Beast Wars" feature detailing the origins of the show and toyline, a 3-page "Creating the BW-Verse" interview with [[Bob Forward]], a 2-page "The (G1) roots of the Beast Wars" feature detailing the G1 elements in the show, 4 pages of [[Don Figueroa]]'s design sketches, and a reprint of the "[[Optimus Primal vs Megatron!]]" toy pack-in comic.
| [[June 17|17/06]]/2020
|-
| 86
| 91
| The Everlasting Voices
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Sardines|#13]]–[[The Everlasting Voices (3): You Are Here|18]]
| The first half of ''[[Transformers: Historia]]'' (up to ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'', including the [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]] profile, which was itself copied from the ''[[Hasbro Heroes Sourcebook]]''.
| [[July 1|01/07]]/2020
|-
| 96
| 92
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 2
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II'' #1–4]] [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War'' #1–2]]
| A two-page sketchbook of [[Don Figueroa]]'s original pencils for the the first 8 pages of ''The Art of War''.
| [[July 15|15/07]]/2020
|-
| 87
| 93
| Crucible
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Crucible (Part 1): A Dance Before Dying|#19]]–[[Crucible (Part 6): A Spark Among Embers|24]]
| The second half of ''[[Transformers: Historia]]'' including the [[Optimus Prime (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Optimus Prime]] profile.
| [[July 29|29/07]]/2020
|-
| 91
| 94
| Generation 2, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[New Dawn|#7]]–[[A Rage in Heaven!|12]]
| A profile on [[Derek Yaniger]], a outro by Simon Furman including [small-scale scans of] "[[War Zone|War Zone]]", their second UK-original ''G2'' strip.
| [[August 12|12/08]]/2020
|-
| 88
| 95
| Unicron
| ''[[Transformers: Unicron]]'' [[Our Darkest|#0]]–[[Ceremony|6]] (assumed) ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[Post|#25]] (assumed) ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[How To Say Goodbye And Mean It: Part 2|25]] (assumed)
|
| [[August 26|26/08]]/2020
|-
| 94
| 96
| Beast Wars: The Ascending
| [[Transformers: Beast Wars: The Ascending|''Beast Wars: The Ascending'' #1–4]] (assumed)
|
| [[September 9|09/09]]/2020
|-
| 97
| 97
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 3
| [[Devil's Due Press|DDP]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War'' #3–5]] [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: Black Horizon|''G.I. Joe vs, the Transformers: Black Horizon'' #1–2]]
|
| [[September 23|23/09]]/2020
|-
| 98
| 98
| The World In Your Eyes
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The World In Your Eyes Part One|#1]]–[[Orion Pax: Free Fall|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[October 7|07/10]]/2020
|-
| 99
| 99
| The Cracks Beneath Your Feet
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The Cracks Beneath Your Feet Part One|#7]]–[[Nautica: Home|12]] (assumed)
|
| [[October 21|21/10]]/2020
|-
| 100
| 100
| Constructicons Rising
| ''[[Transformers: Galaxies]]'' [[Constructicons Rising, Part 1|#1]]–[[Wannabee, Part 2|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[November 4|04/11]]/2020
|}

==Curation==
Although this collection was curated by Simon Furman, the man directly responsible for many of the stories it contains, many of the decisions it makes seem to be far from ideal.

Presumably as a result of these being the master copies in Hasbro's possession, Marvel US reprints are drawn from IDW's ''[[The Transformers Classics]]'' 'remasters', complete with newly-introduced typos, haphazard attempts to 'fix' errors, washed-out linework, and less authentic coloring than John-Paul Bove's brand new efforts! In a similar vein, cover galleries include the covers for both the US and UK stories, but ''not'' the UK-exclusive covers for US stories. This focus on presenting the 'unmodified' versions of US comics means that many of the minor edits made to those stories for their original UK printings (to better jive with Furman's expanded continuity) are absent.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-9#post-14167234 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "In order to smooth over the continuity cracks between the UK and US stories, the US books were usually edited (US#16-24 were especially affected) for their UK printing. But rather than the UK edits of the American stories, we get the familiar US versions. <nowiki>[...]</nowiki> Oh, and on page 214, there's a factual error as well, when it states that Transformers UK sold 200,000 copies per week. That's actually completely false. It actually sold 100,000 copies per week at its peak. That said, each individual comic sold would tend to be read by a number of people, as kids lent or gave their comics to siblings or school friends. It was calculated that, on average, each comic sold would be read by two-point-five people. Marvel (and other comic publishers such as Fleetway or IPC) would therefore take the ''actual'' circulation figures and apply this 2.5 multiplier to give a total readership that did exceed two hundred thousand on occasion. So whilst the ''readership'' was arguably 250K-plus, the actual ''number of copies'' sold was nowhere near that figure.</ref>

===Reading order===
The actual ordering of the Marvel material is far from straightforward, for various reasons:
*The two Furman-penned comics from [[Transformers Annual 1985|the 1995 annual]] don't have a particular place in the continuity: "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" is a standalone flashback that isn't referenced until UK #44, while "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" is a non-canonical present-day story written to promote toys that weren't appearing in the comic at the time. Presumably for reasons of space, they're included as backmatter in volumes 2 and 13; the latter consists mostly of stories released three years later!
*Volume 3 presents UK #41-50 before US #11-12, when they should be the other way around. Apparently this was a deliberate decision to place focus on the UK story the volume was centred around!<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/315915/thread Facebook post quoted by Andy Turnbull on the Transmasters UK forums]: "While we make every effort to maintain the original flow and continuity of the Marvel UK/US TRANSFORMERS stories, the self-contained identity and integrity of each individual volume is of paramount importance, especially as the collections aren’t released in chronological order. So, in a heavily UK-centric volume titled Dinobot Hunt, we took the decision to lead with the main/bulk of 'Dinobot Hunt' (and preceding issues) itself. Both UK and US strips are prefaced with a dedicated Story So Far to ease readers into the respective narratives, so they can be enjoyed together or in and of themselves. Naturally, we regret any inherent ‘spoilers’, but our policy is to create coherent and self-supportive volumes that anyone, casual reader or long-time fan, can pick up and enjoy."</ref>
*The minor Marvel productions "[[The Night the Transformers Saved Christmas]]" and "[[The Special Teams Have Arrived]]" are absent—but of course, the latter was completely retold in UK #63-65, included here in volume 4.
*The two comic stories from [[Transformers Annual 1986|the 1986 annual]] aren't directly connected to specific issues; "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" doesn't really fit into continuity, but certainly takes place after UK #65—which is where the partwork puts it—while "[[Victory!]]" (which explains what happened to the Dinobots between UK #50 and #65) is placed before UK #74-77, another Dinobot-centric story.
*"[[The Gift]]", UK #93's seasonal story by [[James Hill]], is omitted; it should be placed in volume 6 between US #22 and US #23.
*Volume 8 reshuffles things slightly relative to publication order; US #27 was originally published before UK #113-120, but is moved afterwards. As the stories aren't connected, this doesn't really affect anything.
*The stories from [[Transformers Annual 1987|the 1987 annual]] are scattered. "[[Vicious Circle!]]" is placed in volume 8 alongside UK #113-120, collectively forming the first "post-movie" storyline. "What's In a Name?" is placed in volume 11 directly before UK #135-136, which developed its premise further. "[[Ark Duty]]" is also thrown into volume 11, after UK #146-151... despite chronologically taking place some time before that story.
*In a move that actually ''improves'' readability, the ''[[Action Force (comic)|Action Force]]'' crossover "[[Ancient Relics!]]" (which originally interrupted the unrelated two-part story told across US #29-30) is moved before #29.
*[[Worlds Apart!|UK #130-131]] was written as an introduction to the Headmaster concept to UK audiences; it's recontextualised here as a flashback, letting the ''[[The Transformers: Headmasters| Headmasters]]'' miniseries lead directly into [[Trial by Fire!|US #38]]. Keeping UK-original strips in publication order however then causes trouble with [[Ladies' Night (issue)|UK #137-138]], which set up the Combaticons' appearance in... [[Used Autobots|US #32]], and [[Enemy Action!|UK #152-153]], which takes place before the launch of [[Club Con]] in [[The Desert Island of Space!|US #39]].
*[[Stargazing|UK #145]], a fairly standalone Christmas story, is thrown in at the end of volume 12.
*When Furman took over the US comic, the UK strips (having switched to black-and-white) generally stopped tying directly into the US material. Exceptions included [[Race with the Devil|UK #215-218]] setting up [[Back from the Dead|US #56]], Thunderwing's rise to power across [[The Big Shutdown!|UK #230-231]] and [[Rage!|#241]]-[[Assault on the Ark!|242]] paying off in [[Yesterday's Heroes!|US #60]], [[Out to Lunch!|UK #240]] following on from [[Skin Deep|US #59]], [[Mind Games|UK #243]]-[[Two Megatrons!|244]] further explaining Megatron's appearance in US #56-59, [[Whose Lifeforce Is It Anyway?|UK #249]] being nodded to in [[Bird of Prey!|US #62]], and the events of [[Deathbringer (issue)|UK #235-236]] being directly referenced in [[Dark Creation|US #65]]. This collection includes these comics in clumps during breaks in the action, ignoring most of this connective tissue.
*Starting with [[...Perchance to Dream|UK #255]] (as noted on the [[Earthforce]] page), the UK material effectively diverged into an entire alternate timeline; most of these stories are placed together at the end of volume 20.

The ordering of IDW's comics, meanwhile, can only be described as impenetrable to a new reader. As ''Infiltration'' was the starting point for that continuity, it is presented as the first volume, but in a stab towards chronological ordering the next volumes are devoted to prequels such as ''[[Megatron: Origin]]'' and ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy| Autocracy]]'', which were released well after the fact and don't really mesh well here. Even Furman's own work isn't safe: ''[[The Transformers: Maximum Dinobots| Maximum Dinobots]]'' is placed before ''[[Revelation (IDW)|Revelation]]'', and the other ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight| Spotlight]]'' issues are thrown in haphazardly wherever space allows. How much of the material following his run Furman has actually read, only he can say.

===Omissions===
It's apparent that when the partwork was planned out, Hatchette intended to be the first company to reprint the latter-day [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] material such as [[Transformers: Generation 1 (Dreamwave)|the Sunstorm arc]], ''[[Transformers: Micromasters|Micromasters]]'', and the ''[[20th Anniversary Transformers Summer Special|Summer Special]]''<ref>[https://simonfurman.wordpress.com/2017/01/ Simon Furman on WordPress]: "all the Dreamwave G1 material that saw print in single-issue form will be collected, including the rare Summer Special story, Welcome to the Jungle, and their ongoing G1 series"</ref> in volumes 27 and 28—but those volumes wound up containing issues from Dreamwave's ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)| Armada]]'' comic, which merely guest-starred G1 characters and seem very out of place in a "Definitive ''G1'' Collection" (unsurprisingly, the rest of the ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)| Armada]]'' and ''[[Transformers: Energon (comic)| Energon]]'' material is omitted). Presumably, this late change occurred for the same reason those stories have never been reprinted in the first place—nobody's sure whether the creative teams were actually ''paid'' for their work. A summary of ''[[Transformers: War Within: The Age of Wrath|The Age of Wrath]]'' was included, but none of the finished issues of that series or of ''[[Transformers/G.I. Joe: Divided Front]]'' were reprinted.

Many of the collection's other omissions can easily be considered editorial choices:
*The prose stories from Marvel UK's annuals are omitted, although it bears mentioning that most of them were written by authors other than Furman and are tricky to reconcile with the continuity proper anyway. Furman's stories are more conspicuous by their absence: "[[The Magnificent Six!]]" from the 1991 annual was part of the Earthforce storyline, and the 1992 annual's "[[Another Time & Place]]" was effectively the original coda to his Marvel run. UK #302's "[[Dreadwind's Xmas!]]" is absent too, notable for focusing on Dreadwind's time [[Letters page (Marvel UK)|answering letters]] for Marvel UK.
*At most, only small extracts are given of the various profile books released over the years: Marvel's ''[[The Transformers Universe]]'', Dreamwave's ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye| More than Meets the Eye]]'', and IDW's ''[[Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook| Beast Wars Sourcebook]]'' and ''[[Hasbro Heroes Sourcebook]]''.
*None of the material released by [[3H Productions]] or [[Fun Publications]] was printed in this collection.
*Minor pack-in comics like [[Milton Bradley]]'s "[[In the Transformers]]", [[Metrodome]]'s "[[The Beast Within]]", Madman Entertainment's "[[The Transformers (Madman)|The Transformers]]" and IDW's "[[Rodimus vs. Cyclonus]]" are understandably left out.
*IDW's non-''G.I. Joe'' crossover miniseries are all omitted: ''[[New Avengers/Transformers]]'', ''[[Aw Yeah Revolution!]]'', ''[[Rom vs. Transformers: Shining Armor]]'', ''[[Transformers vs. Visionaries]]'', ''[[Angry Birds Transformers (comic)|Angry Birds Transformers]]'', ''[[Star Trek vs. Transformers]]'', and ''[[Transformers/Ghostbusters]]''. So too are most of the tie-ins to their once-annual multi-property events: ''[[Infestation 2]]'', ''[[Mars Attacks: The Transformers|Mars Attacks]]'', ''[[The X-Files: Conspiracy: The Transformers|The X-Files: Conspiracy]]'', and ''[[Transformers: Deviations| Deviations]]''.

Less forgivable is the omission of "[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe: The Movie Adaptation]]", and that of the four-page "[[Black Cybertron]]" prose story from [[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe issue 10|issue #10]]. The various prose stories, profiles and comics first printed with the collected editions of ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'' are also absent.

==Coloring==
Colorist John-Paul Bove, known for his work on ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One| Regeneration One]]'', was hired by Hatchette to give color to black-and-white UK-original stories. The first of these was "[[Raiders of the Last Ark]]", included in volume 1. Like many of the earliest UK strips, only some of its instalments were printed in color, but this was the only story not to be later colourised in a reprint at the time. For this collection, Bove colored the entire comic in a style as close to the original marker-pens as possible, with the only edits being to correct an error and to put [[Guardian (Marvel)|Guardian]]'s colors in line with the character's later appearances.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/282848/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "Raiders has been coloured to match as closely as possible the original. As far as I can tell the original was coloured in marker pen! This involved some exceptionally detailed hi res scans and taking the texture and colour choices from the original (including a Megs with a lot of gold!). There were two changes made to the originals, one was a colouring error pointed out by Mike Collins himself that affected the linework (see if you can spot it) that I corrected and the other was that the Guardian colours were changed to match all subsequent appearances. When he is taken down he is left a solid colour in that Yomtovy way of doing things."</ref>

For the black-and-white strips printed following the UK comic's format change in 1989, Bove colored the stories depending on whether their plots tied into the UK or the US continuity. He cites "[[Race with the Devil]]" (the first black-and-white story of this kind) and "[[Fallen Star!]]" as examples of US-relevant stories. Meanwhile stories like "[[Survivors]]" emulated the richer colour combinations employed by the UK teams.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/282848/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "As stated in the colour commentary in vol 3, the style of colouring for the strips depends entirely on the continuity it follows regardless of which country it originated in. So Race with the Devil and Fallen Star follow US continuity despite being a UK originated strip. So the colour ref will follow what was in the Underbase Saga and the stories containing the classic Pretenders (so background Soundwave is Magenta as Ed said). At a certain point along the way the UK was instructed to follow the US way of colouring, so the techniques becomes the same though the guys and gals in the UK were geniuses in making combinations to generate richer pallets. That's why Survivors etc has been done in a richer, denser style."</ref> "[[Aspects of Evil!]]" and the [[Earthforce]] stories were colored to look like they could've been rendered with inks and airbrushes.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/282848/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "For Aspects of Evil (coming soon!) the colouring style is not bound by continuity. I felt doing something like Regen would be too far removed from the time, but instead I have coloured it in a way that could have been rendered with inks and airbrush but that still feels modern without any computer trickery. It's a style based a little on contrast and is hopefully both bold and subtle."</ref>

In some cases, Bove made choices with regards to color schemes based on in-universe reasoning, most notably with [[Xaaron]] and [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] in volume 19.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/299016/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "With Xaaron I was pretty sure that his appearance here was chronologically the first we'd seen him so I decided to make him his UK colours and leave his all yellow look something he got shortly after. This was partly because his all yellow look was awful and there was enough wiggle room to do it. Soundwave on the other hand had appeared magenta before the events of Starscream's Pretender process and after so to change him to blue for this moment between other moments requires a bigger ask. There is a whole complicated reasoning that had to apply to Thunderwing precisely because he appears in different colours in between coloured appearances. I reasoned that he was burned then jumped into the sea which lead to one colour change, got repaired and recoloured when he got back to the ship and then got given a final upgrade when he got made leader. I spent forever working out a logic that would make sense of all the colour schemes he had that I had to jump between. There was definitely method to the madness and many, many hours were spent making it as consistent, justified and sympathetic as possible."</ref>

==Notes==
* The free gifts shipped to subscribers with the first five deliveries (each consisting of two isses - except the first, which included a third issue free) were:
** Autobot/Decepticon [[insignia]] keyrings!
** A wallet!
** A tin-plate version of the cover to "[[Dark Star]]", featuring a cosmically-empowered [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]]!
** A mug!
** A pair of metal Autobot/Decepticon insignia bookends!<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20170112033736/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* Before the partwork launched, the second free gift was advertised as an [[Insignia|Autobrand]] belt buckle.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20160914212214/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* The first issue collected "[[Target: 2006]]", and was coincidentally out at newsagents thirty years after the story originally ran.<ref>[http://thesolarpool.weebly.com/transformers-uk227.html Solar Pool]: "The Target: 2006 book is already out... if it doesn’t [finish], Target: 2006 was back on at least some newsagents shelves towards the end of its 30th anniversary week. How cool is that?"</ref>
* The printings of Marvel material aren't really identical to those released by IDW—for instance, issue 1 (volume 6 - confused yet?) includes various Marvel trademarks (such as the superheroes around the edge of the cover to "Heavy Traffic" and the kid wearing a Spider-Man t-shirt in "Decepticon Graffiti") which were painted out of IDW's reprints due to rights issues.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-10#post-14168736 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "The weird thing is, though, these '''aren't''' the IDW versions. The cover to Heavy Traffic has all the Marvel characters around the edge, and the little kid in Decepticon Graffiti is wearing his Spider-Man t-shirt. This stuff was painted out of the IDW trades due to rights issues with Marvel."</ref>

===Errors===
* When the website launched, it accidentally credited [[Andrew Wildman|Andrew ''Wlid''man]].
* Copies of the first issue provided to general retail and initial subscribers had an error on the spine, with the black volume number box at the top being the wrong size.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14249131 ultra badness on the TFW2005 forums]: "I just got an email from Hachette to say they had misprinted the spine art on issue 1. And hey will send a replacement. Hurrah! Im going to have 3 issues!"</ref> Subscribers received free corrected copies, while those who bought theirs at newsagents had to wait for replacements which were included with issue 7.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14256091 Magnus' Mate on TFW2005]: "Incidentally, the 'corrected' #1 will be available to non-subscribers as well, included free with issue #7!"</ref> Hachette were seen giving away error-stricken copies for free at a signing event at a London comic shop.<ref>[http://forums.millarworld.tv/t/the-trades-thread-hardcovers-graphic-novels-and-more/4923/2359 Millarworld forums (dead link)]</ref> This error shouldn't be confused with the change in spine art for the first four issues made between the limited trial run and the mass release,<ref>[http://www.facebook.com/TransformersG1Collection/posts/1533415153338562?comment_id=1533436356669775&reply_comment_id=1533593929987351 Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection on Facebook]</ref> which means that anyone who subscribed to the series from its trial will end up with ''three'' different copies of issue 1.
* The poster included with issue 1 includes a bio for [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]]... which uses an image of [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]].<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13983869 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "Also: the poster that comes with Volume 1 (Target: 2006) shows some small character bios but goofs up the "Jazz" bio by using a picture of Prowl."</ref>
* The trial versions of issues 1 and 2 had the inside cover art swapped: the "Target: 2006" book had artwork for ''Stormbringer'', and vice versa.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13989359 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "On anybody else's copies, is the inside cover art wrong? I've got Stormbringer art inside the Target:2006 book, and Target:2006 art inside the Stormbringer book."</ref>
* A feature in issue 1 states that the Marvel UK comic sold 200,000 copies per week, when really it only sold 100,000 per week ''at its peak''. This error presumably stems from the fact that Marvel (and other publishers at the time) multiplied their circulation figures by 2.5 to calculate their readership, as they estimated that many issues would be shared between friends and siblings.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>
* Hatchette's own masterings of the comics introduce yet more errors. In issue 1, for example, an instance of '[[Skids (G1)|]]' in dialogue is misspelled as 'Skips'.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14277882 Bass X0 on the TFW2005 forums]: "In Decepticon Graffiti, Skids is called Skips on the second page."</ref> This error was not present in IDW's original reprints.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-13#post-14316444 Magnus' Mate on the TFW2005 forums]: "Except the IDW "Transformers Classics" volume 2 with issue #23 in doesn't have this same problem - Skids is still Skids, not Skips! I know there are other problems with them, but this one is on Hachette."</ref>
* The bio for John Paul Bove included in issue 3 (volume 16) was apparently written by himself in the first person, then edited into the third person—one of the sentences written in first person remains!<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-8#post-14101771 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "There is also a half page bio on JP, which was obviously written by himself in the first person, and then edited to be the third person- but they missed one of the first person senetnces and it is still in there!"</ref>
* Some copies of volume 22 had a number erroneously printed on one of the pages.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-20#post-15179844 rodster6 on the TFW2005 forums]: "Got volume 7 today (which I think is issue 22) and there is a weird number printed randomly on one page that shouldn't be there."</ref>
* The first print run for volume 35 had an error where the last two pages of ''Monstrosity'' #11 were swapped with two from "War and Peace" #3.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-18#post-14880721 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "The last two pages of Monstrosity #11 have been swapped with the ones from W&P #3"</ref>
* Many volumes include pages which are stuck together, though this is easy enough for the reader to fix.
* Though some readers may try to convince you otherwise, [[Mister Johnson]] is not an error.

==Covers==
<center><gallery caption="Marvel (US & UK)" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v1.jpg|Vol 1: Power Play
DefinitiveG1Collection v2.jpg|Vol 2: New Order
DefinitiveG1Collection v3.jpg|Vol 3: Dinobot Hunt
DefinitiveG1Collection v4.jpg|Vol 4: Second Generation
DefinitiveG1Collection v5.jpg|Vol 5: The Smelting Pool
DefinitiveG1Collection v6.jpg|Vol 6: Target: 2006
DefinitiveG1Collection v7.jpg|Vol 7: The Harder They Die
DefinitiveG1Collection v8.jpg|Vol 8: Wanted: Galvatron - Dead or Alive
DefinitiveG1Collection v9.jpg|Vol 9: Toy Soldiers
DefinitiveG1Collection v10.jpg|Vol 10: Trial by Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v11.jpg|Vol 11: The Legacy of Unicron
DefinitiveG1Collection v12.jpg|Vol 12: Cosmic Carnival
DefinitiveG1Collection v13.jpg|Vol 13: City of Fear
DefinitiveG1Collection v14.jpg|Vol 14: Space Pirates
DefinitiveG1Collection v15.jpg|Vol 15: Time Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v16.jpg|Vol 16: The Primal Scream
DefinitiveG1Collection v17.jpg|Vol 17: Matrix Quest
DefinitiveG1Collection v18.jpg|Vol 18: Edge of Extinction
DefinitiveG1Collection v19.jpg|Vol 19: Perchance to Dream
DefinitiveG1Collection v20.jpg|Vol 20: End of the Road
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Marvel's Generation 2" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v89.jpg|Vol 89: Realignments
DefinitiveG1Collection v90.jpg|Vol 90: Generation 2 Part 1

</gallery>
<gallery caption="IDW's Regeneration One" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v21.jpg|Vol 21: Regeneration One
DefinitiveG1Collection v22.jpg|Vol 22: Natural Selection
DefinitiveG1Collection v23.jpg|Vol 23: Destiny
DefinitiveG1Collection v24.jpg|Vol 24: The War to End All Wars
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Dreamwave Productions" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v25.jpg|Vol 25: Prime Directive
DefinitiveG1Collection v26.jpg|Vol 26: War and Peace
DefinitiveG1Collection v27.jpg|Vol 27: Worlds Collide Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v28.jpg|Vol 28: Worlds Collide Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v29.jpg|Vol 29: The War Within
DefinitiveG1Collection v30.jpg|Vol 30: War Within: The Dark Ages
DefinitiveG1Collection v31.jpg|Vol 31: The Iron Fist
</gallery>

<gallery caption="2005 IDW continuity" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v32.jpg|Vol 32: Infiltration
DefinitiveG1Collection v33.jpg|Vol 33: Megatron Origin
DefinitiveG1Collection v34.jpg|Vol 34: Autocracy
DefinitiveG1Collection v35.jpg|Vol 35: Primacy
DefinitiveG1Collection v36.jpg|Vol 36: Stormbringer
DefinitiveG1Collection v37.jpg|Vol 37: Escalation
DefinitiveG1Collection v38.jpg|Vol 38: Devastation
DefinitiveG1Collection v39.jpg|Vol 39: Hearts of Steel
DefinitiveG1Collection v40.jpg|Vol 40: Maximum Dinobots
DefinitiveG1Collection v41.jpg|Vol 41: Drift
DefinitiveG1Collection v42.jpg|Vol 42: Revelation
DefinitiveG1Collection v43.jpg|Vol 43: All Hail Megatron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v44.jpg|Vol 44: All Hail Megatron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v45.jpg|Vol 45: Last Stand of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v46.jpg|Vol 46: Things Fall Apart
DefinitiveG1Collection v47.jpg|Vol 47: International Incident
DefinitiveG1Collection v48.jpg|Vol 48: Revenge of the Decepticons
DefinitiveG1Collection v49.jpg|Vol 49: The Iron Age
DefinitiveG1Collection v50.jpg|Vol 50: Heart of Darkness
DefinitiveG1Collection v51.jpg|Vol 51: Chaos Theory
DefinitiveG1Collection v52.jpg|Vol 52: The Death of Optimus Prime
DefinitiveG1Collection v53.jpg|Vol 53: Liars, A to D
DefinitiveG1Collection v54.jpg|Vol 54: A Better Tomorrow
DefinitiveG1Collection v55.jpg|Vol 55: Shadowplay
DefinitiveG1Collection v56.jpg|Vol 56: City On Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v57.jpg|Vol 57: Remain In Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v58.jpg|Vol 58: Shockpoint
DefinitiveG1Collection v59.jpg|Vol 59: Dark Cybertron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v60.jpg|Vol 60: Dark Cybertron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v61.jpg|Vol 61: World Shut Your Mouth
DefinitiveG1Collection v62.jpg|Vol 62: Earthfall
DefinitiveG1Collection v63.jpg|Vol 63: Elegant Chaos
DefinitiveG1Collection v64.jpg|Vol 64: Windblade
DefinitiveG1Collection v65.jpg|Vol 65: Combiner Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v66.jpg|Vol 66: Speak, Memory
DefinitiveG1Collection v67.jpg|Vol 67: Conquerors
DefinitiveG1Collection v68.jpg|Vol 68: Empire of Stone
DefinitiveG1Collection v69.jpg|Vol 69: Sins of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v70.jpg|Vol 70: Punishment
DefinitiveG1Collection v71.jpg|Vol 71: All Hail Optimus
DefinitiveG1Collection v72.jpg|Vol 72: The Dying of the Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v75.jpg|Vol 75: Titans Return, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v76.jpg|Vol 76: Titans Return, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v77.jpg|Vol 77: Dissolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v78.jpg|Vol 78: New Cybertron
DefinitiveG1Collection v79.jpg|Vol 79: Primeless
DefinitiveG1Collection v80.jpg|Vol 80: Requiem of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v81.jpg|Vol 81: Revolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v82.jpg|Vol 82: Revolutionaries
DefinitiveG1Collection v83.jpg|Vol 83: First Strike
DefinitiveG1Collection v84.jpg|Vol 84: The Falling Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v85.jpg|Vol 85: The Falling Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v86.jpg|Vol 86: The Everlasting Voices
DefinitiveG1Collection v87.jpg|Vol 87: Crucible

</gallery>
<gallery caption="Miscellaneous" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v73.jpg|Vol 73: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v74.jpg|Vol 74: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v92.jpg|Vol 92: Transformers: The Movie
DefinitiveG1Collection v93.jpg|Vol 93: Beast Wars: The Gathering

DefinitiveG1Collection v95.jpg|Vol 95: G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v96.jpg|Vol 96: G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 2

</gallery>






''[[:Category:Definitive G1 Collection covers|Extended cover gallery]]''</center>

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

==External links==
*[http://www.transformerscollection.com/ Official website]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Definitive G1 Collection}}
[[Category:Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics continuity comic compilations]]
[[Category:Dreamwave Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Generation 1 comic compilations]]

Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection

2020-08-01T08:46:16Z

YoungDoctor: /* Volumes */

[[File:Definitive G1 Collection in full.jpg|thumb|upright=3.05|4/5 of a grand tale.]]

'''Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection''' is a fortnightly 100-volume partwork from [[Hachette]], edited by [[Simon Furman]]. Partworks are a Hachette specialty: a series will be collected out of order (the first ''Definitive'' was volume 6) for commercial purposes but can be collected on your shelf in order with a fancy picture on the collective spines. The collection aims to republish every single "Generation 1" comic ever made, including the original [[Marvel Comics]] run—UK and US—in order for the very first time. Each issue has a special cover and bonus content, and [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)#Fantastic Free Gift.21|Fantastic FREE! Gifts]] are provided for subscribers. Marvel UK strips which were originally printed in black-and-white have been given brand new colours by [[John-Paul Bove]] using emulations of both 1980s American and latter-day Marvel UK techniques.<ref>"A Different Approach to Colour", Vol.16</ref>

The series was initially announced in September 2016 to contain 60 issues—ending with the ''Dark Cybertron'' crossover—but by the time of its launch in December, it had already been extended to 80 issues, with volume 80 providing some closure in the form of ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One| Till All Are One]]'' and ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers| Requiem of the Wreckers]]''. In 2018, upon the conclusion of IDW's first continuity, fans observed that it would take around ten extra volumes to reprint the entire IDW catalogue—and on the 18th of July 2019, Simon Furman confirmed on Twitter that the collection had been extended by ''twenty'' issues for a total of 100.

Sounds great, right?

Well... not if you live outside the [[United Kingdom]] and [[Ireland]]. The partwork was given a trial-run in parts of the UK before a national release started in early 2017. In August 2017, the subscription also became available in [[Australia]],<ref>[http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?s=438cea1ad48786466241053a45f743ae&t=24685 Ozformers Transformers Club of Australia]: UK Definitive Comic collection from Hachette now in Australia</ref> but became unavailable in July 2018 due to the closure of the Australian distributor. In January 2019, it became available in [[Poland]],<ref>[https://transformers-kolekcja.pl/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIrYTRuabz3wIVl-F3Ch2P7wirEAAYASAAEgJKLvD_BwE Polish version of official site]</ref> with volumes being released in proper chronological order.

Even for those who were able to subscribe, the partwork ended up not being quite as ''definitive'' as advertised, suffering from strange ordering and editorial choices, and from some major printing errors. Hachette's notoriously-bad customer service made it a nightmare to obtain corrected replacements.

==Volumes==
{{note|Each volume contains cover art from the original issues, plus a new introduction by Simon Furman. The bonus features below are in addition to these.}}
{| class="wikitable sortable"
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Vol.
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Issue
! scope="col" style="width: 125px;" | Title
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Contents
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Bonus Features
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Release date
|-
| 06
| 01
|Target: 2006
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Target: 2006|#78–83]] "[[Cybertron: The Middle Years!]]" Marvel UK [[Target: 2006|#84–88]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Aerialbots over America!|#21]]–[[Decepticon Graffiti!|23]]
| A guide to the launch of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' in the UK and its marketing purposes for Marvel UK, a "Meet... The [[Wrecker]]s" feature, a behind-the-scenes look at the development of "Target: 2006", and a spotlight on [[Geoff Senior]].
|[[December 30|30/12]]/[[2016]]
|-
| 36
| 02
| Stormbringer
| ''[[Spotlight: Shockwave]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Soundwave]]'' [[The Transformers: Stormbringer|''Stormbringer'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Nightbeat]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Hot Rod]]''
| An article on the beginning of IDW-verse production and several sketches by Figueroa.
|[[January 11|11/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 16
| 03
| The Primal Scream
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Cold Comfort and Joy!|#198]], [[The Fall and Rise of the Decepticon Empire.|#213]]–[[Survivors!|222]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Back from the Dead|#56]]–[[The Primal Scream|61]]
| An overview of the change in format of the UK series and the introduction of 5-page black-and-white strips, and an article by Bove on the colouring techniques used at Marvel UK and Marvel US in the 1980s, and how he emulated them for colourising the UK strips.
|[[January 27|27/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 18
| 04
| Edge of Extinction
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Rhythms of Darkness!|#67]]–[[On the Edge of Extinction!|75]]
| An overview of [[Unicron/Generation 1#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel's Unicron]] and a spotlight on [[Andrew Wildman]].
|[[February 8|08/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 29
| 05
| The War Within
| [[Transformers: The War Within|The War Within #1–6]] and [[The War Within Preview|preview]]
| Various character design sketches by [[Don Figueroa]] and an article on the making of ''The War Within''.
|[[February 22|22/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 37
| 06
| Escalation
| ''[[Spotlight: Sixshot]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Ultra Magnus]]'' [[The Transformers: Escalation|''Escalation'' #1–6]]
| Sketches by [[E. J. Su]], bios on [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|IDW Ultra Magnus]] & [[Sixshot (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Sixshot]], an article on creating the IDW ''Spotlights'', and an interview with Su. 
|[[March 8|08/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 08
| 07
| Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive!|#113]]–[[Fire on High!|120]] "[[Vicious Circle!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[King of the Hill!|#27]]–[[Mechanical Difficulties!|28]]
| An overview of the Marvel UK Annuals and a bio on [[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Goldbug]].
|[[March 22|22/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 39
| 08
| Hearts of Steel
| [[Hearts of Steel|''Hearts of Steel'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Galvatron]], [[Spotlight: Optimus Prime]], [[Spotlight: Mirage]]''
| Concept art by [[Guido Guidi]] and an article about the creation of ''Hearts of Steel''.
|[[April 5|05/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 10
| 09
| Trial by Fire
| [[The Transformers: Headmasters|Headmasters #1–4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Trial by Fire!|#38]]–[[The Desert Island of Space!|39]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Worlds Apart!|#130]]–[[Kup's Story!|132]]
| A retrospective on the [[The Transformers: Headmasters|''Headmasters'' miniseries]] and an overview of how Marvel UK handled toy marketing.
| [[April 19|19/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 21
| 10
| Regeneration One
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Counterpoint|#80.5]]–[[Loose Ends, Part 5|85]]
| A commentary on [[Loose Ends, Part 1|issue #81]] by Simon Furman, an overview on production leading up to ''Regeneration One'', and several cover sketches.
| [[May 3|03/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 31
| 11
| The Iron Fist
| [[Transformers/G.I. Joe|Transformers/G.I. Joe #1–6]]
| Various character design sketches by Figueroa and an overview of the many [[G.I. Joe crossovers]] across the comics.
| [[May 17|17/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 50
| 12
| Heart of Darkness
| [[The Transformers: Heart of Darkness|''Heart of Darkness'' #1–4]] [[Infestation (IDW)|''The Transformers: Infestation'' #1–2]]
| A post-mortem on "[[Zombie|Zombots]]" across the various comics and a bio on [[Hardhead (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Hardhead]].
| [[May 31|31/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 59
| 13
| Dark Cybertron, Part 1
| [[Dark Dawn: Dark Cybertron Chapter 1|''Dark Cybertron'' one-shot]] [[Little Victories|''More than Meets the Eye'' #22]]–[[No Exit: Dark Cybertron Chapter 6|25]] [[Winners & Losers: Dark Cybertron Chapter 3|''Robots in Disguise'' #23]]–[[Finest Hour: Dark Cybertron Chapter 5|24]]
| A bio on the [[Titan (group)|Titans]] and the making of ''Dark Cybertron'' with [[John Barber]] and James Roberts.
| [[June 14|14/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 01
| 14
| Power Play
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Transformers (issue)|#1]]–[[The Last Stand|4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Man of Iron (issue)|#9]]–[[Raiders of the Last Ark|21]]
| The alternate ending of [[The Last Stand|Marvel US #4]], unused artwork from [[The Transformers (issue)|issue #1]] by [[Frank Springer]], and an overview of how Marvel UK first approached The Transformers.
| [[June 28|28/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 26
| 15
| War and Peace
| ''[[War and Peace|Transformers: Generation 1 vol. 2]]'' #1–6 and [[Transformers Volume 2 Preview|preview]]
| Top 10 Easter eggs for "[[War and Peace]]" and scorecards listing each faction and their crew members during the arc.
| [[July 12|12/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 35
| 16
| Primacy
| [[The Transformers: Monstrosity|''Monstrosity'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Primacy|''Primacy'' #1–4]]
| An interview with [[Flint Dille]] about his work on the G1 cartoon and his involvement in the ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy|Autocracy]]'' trilogy.
| [[July 26|26/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 64
| 17
| Windblade
| [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 1 #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[Onyx Interface Part One: Signals, Calls, and Marches|#35]]–[[The Onyx Interface Conclusion: The Obliterati|38]]
| A bio for [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]], an overview of her conception, pictures of her ''[[Thrilling 30]]'' toy, and early design sketches by Hasbro.
| [[August 9|09/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 19
| 18
| Perchance to Dream
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Out to Lunch!|#240]]–[[...Perchance to Dream|260]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Still Life!|#76]]–[[Exodus!|77]]
| A Marvel UK ''Classic Heroes Competition!'' page, an overview of Furman's attempts to connect Marvel UK's black-and-white strips to the US stories and how he would eventually have to abandon doing so, an article on the "[[Two Megatrons!]]" confusion, and a bio on [[Thunderwing (G1)#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Thunderwing]].
| [[August 23|23/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 40
| 19
| Maximum Dinobots
| [[The Transformers: Maximum Dinobots|''Maximum Dinobots'' #1–5]] ''[[Spotlight: Grimlock]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Wheelie]]''
| Dinobot sketches by [[Nick Roche]] and [[Klaus Scherwinski]]'s ''Spotlight: Wheelie'' sketchbook.
| [[September 6|06/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 22
| 20
| Natural Selection
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Natural Selection, Part One|#86]]–[[Natural Selection, Part Five|90]] "[[Peace]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]])
| An overview of the [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Marvel ''Generation 2'' comic]] and several cover sketches.
| [[September 20|20/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 46
| 21
| Things Fall Apart
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Things Fall Apart, Part 1: "New Arrivals, Old Encounters"|#2]]–[[Scrapper (issue)|8]]
| Character design sketches by Figueroa, an extract from ''[[Decepticomments]]'' from [[Things Fall Apart, Part 3: "Seasons in Flight"|''The Transformers'' #4]] by [[Mike Costa]], and a bio on [[Swindle (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Swindle]].
| [[October 4|04/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 07
| 22
| The Harder They Die
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Prey!|#96]]–[[Resurrection!|104]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Afterdeath!|#24]]–[[Funeral for a Friend!|26]]
| An analysis of [[the many deaths of Optimus Prime]] in Generation 1.
| [[October 18|18/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 33
| 23
| Megatron: Origin
| [[The Transformers: Megatron Origin|''Megatron: Origin'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Blurr]]'', ''[[Omega's Conundrum|Spotlight: Orion Pax]]''
| A discussion of the production stages on ''Megatron: Origin'' by [[Eric Holmes]].
| [[November 1|01/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 14
| 24
| Space Pirates
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Wrecking Havoc|#172–173]], [[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|#180]]–[[Dry Run!|189]] "[[Altered Image!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Man in the Machine!|#51]]
| How Marvel UK incorporated ''[[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|The Big Broadcast of 2006]]'' (US issue #43) into their timeline.
| [[November 15|15/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 43
| 25
| All Hail Megatron, Part 1
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #1–8]]
| An article on creating ''All Hail Megatron'', character design sketches by Guidi, and the series pitch by [[Shane McCarthy]].
| [[November 29|29/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 52
| 26
| The Death of Optimus Prime
| [[Chaos (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1 #24, 26, 28, 30, 31]] ''[[Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime|The Death of Optimus Prime]]''
| An interview with [[James Roberts]] on how he worked his way up to become an ongoing writer, and character design sketches by [[Livio Ramondelli]].
| [[December 13|13/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 44
| 27
| All Hail Megatron, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #9–16]]
| A ''Decepticon Roll Call'' with mini-bios, and trivia about ''All Hail Megatron'' [[All Hail Megatron issue 13|#13]]–[[All Hail Megatron issue 16|16]], pointing out notable plot points in the ''Coda'' issues.
| [[December 27|27/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 20
| 28
| End of the Road
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[A Savage Circle|#78]]–[[End of the Road! (US)|80]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Starting Over!|#261]]–[[End of the Road! (UK)|289]]
| Articles about the ends of the US and UK series, including discussion of "[[Another Time & Place]]," the final letters page from #80, and script pages from #80.
| [[January 10|10/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 72
| 29
| The Dying of the Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Dying of the Light: (1) How Bright Their Frail Deeds|#50]]–[[The Dying of the Light Part 6: Do Not Go Gentle|55]]
| The bonus story "[[No Guns, No Swords, No Briefcases]] and essential background material on the [[Decepticon Justice Division|DJD]]
| [[January 24|24/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 75
| 30
| Titans Return, Part 1
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[07:00:00|#1]]–[[The Line Between Us|4]] [[The Last Autobot|''Titans Return'' one-shot]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[White Light|#56]]–[[White Heat|57]] ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Ten to Midnight|#56]]–[[Last Light (issue)|57]]
| "Creating the IDW-Verse" — a two-page article on the beginning of ''More than Meets the Eye'' and ''Robots in Disguise''.
| [[February 7|07/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 60
| 31
| Dark Cybertron, Part 2
| [[The Dead Are Not Enough: Dark Cybertron Chapter 7|''Robots in Disguise'' #25]]–[[Black Planet: Dark Cybertron Chapter 11|27]] [[Burning Bright: Dark Cybertron Chapter 8|''More than Meets the Eye'' #26]]–[[The Becoming: Dark Cybertron Chapter 10|27]] [[...And the Damage Done: Dark Cybertron Finale|''Dark Cybertron: Finale'' one-shot]]
| A blow-by-blow account of Dark Cybertron's hidden secrets
| [[February 21|21/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 71
| 32
| All Hail Optimus
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[All Hail Optimus Part 1: Once Upon a Time on Earth|#50]]–[[All Hail Optimus Part 6: No Fair Fights|55]]
| Background material on the [[Council of Worlds]]
| [[March 7|07/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 02
| 33
| New Order
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The New Order|#5]]–[[Repeat Performance!|8]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Decepticon Dam-Busters!|#29]]–[[The Wrath of Grimlock!|32]] Marvel US [[DIS-Integrated Circuits!|#9]]–[[The Next Best Thing to Being There!|10]] "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1995]])
| Insights into Marvel UK's efforts to ease the transition between the US and UK material
| [[March 21|21/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 03
| 34
| Dinobot Hunt
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Christmas Breaker!|#41]]–[[Dinobot Hunt!|50]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Brainstorm!|#11]]–[[Prime Time!|12]]
| A look at the UK [[Christmas]] story tradition
| [[April 4|04/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 23
| 35
| Destiny
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Destiny, Part One|#91]]–[[Destiny, Part Five|95]], [[Less Than Zero|#0]] "[[Destiny of the Dinobots!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| A feature on Regeneration One issue #0 and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[April 18|18/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 30
| 36
| War Within: The Dark Ages
| [[Transformers: War Within: The Dark Ages|''War Within: The Dark Ages'' #1–6]]
| Synopsis of ''[[Transformers: War Within: The Age of Wrath|War Within: the Age of Wrath]]'', including art from unfinished issues.
| [[May 2|02/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 45
| 37
| Last Stand of the Wreckers
| [[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|''Last Stand of the Wreckers'' #1–5]] ''[[Ride-Along|Spotlight: Prowl]]'' [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[...For All Mankind|#1]]
| Interview with [[Nick Roche]], pre-production sketches and story drafts
| [[May 16|16/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 49
| 38
| The Iron Age
| [[The Transformers: Ironhide|''Ironhide'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Space Opera Part 1: The Stars My Destination|#19]]–[[Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix|21 ("Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix" only)]].
| Casey Coller's ''Ironhide'' sketchbook
| [[May 30|30/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 11
| 39
| The Legacy of Unicron
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Headhunt|#133–134]] "[[What's in a Name?]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) Marvel UK [[Grudge Match!|#135]]–[[Ladies' Night (issue)|138]], [[The Legacy of Unicron!|#146–151]] "[[Ark Duty]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Pretender to the Throne!|#40]]–[[Totaled!|41]]
| A feature on the origins of the origin of the Transformers
| [[June 13|13/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 17
| 40
| Matrix Quest
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Bird of Prey!|#62]]–[[All Fall Down|66]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Aspects of Evil!|#223]]–[[A Savage Place!|239]] "[[The Chain Gang!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| Features on the stories behind "Matrix Quest" and, Marvel UK's crossover "[[Deathbringer (Marvel)|Deathbringer]]" saga
| [[June 27|27/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 73
| 41
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 1
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[The Golden Boys|#0]]–[[Headmasters (issue)|7]]
| A creator commentary on issue #0 and an exclusive interview with [[Tom Scioli]]
| [[July 11|11/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 76
| 42
| Titans Return, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]] [[Ping|#5]]–[[If I Know You|11]]
| Article on ''[[Revolution]]''
| [[July 25|25/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 62
| 43
| Earthfall
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Earthfall Part 1: Hello Cruel World|#28]]–[[The Crucible|34]]
| The lowdown on the (new) human cast and rare promotional posters for the [[Dawn of the Autobots]] event
| [[August 8|08/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 04
| 44
| Second Generation
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Shooting Star!|#13]]–[[Plight of the Bumblebee!|16]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Robot Buster!|#59]]–[[Second Generation!|65]] "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]])
| The story behind Marvel UK's Special Teams promotion
| [[August 22|22/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 32
| 45
| Infiltration
| [[The Transformers: Infiltration|''Infiltration'' #0–6]]
| An article on "Creating the IDW-Verse: From the Ground Up", "The Pitch" - Furman's original pitch to IDW for Infiltration, and some sketches by [[E. J. Su]].
| [[September 5|05/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 24
| 46
| The War to End All Wars
| ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]]'' [[The War to End All Wars, Part 1|#96]]–[[The War to End All Wars, Part 5|100]]
| the prose story "[[King of Shadows]]" and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[September 19|19/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 28
| 47
| Worlds Collide Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Worlds Collide|#14]]–[[The_End|18]] [[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye#Issue .238|Dreamwave's ''More than Meets the Eye'' #8]]
| A brief overview of Dreamwave's [[Transformers: Energon (comic)|Energon comic]] and a bonus glossary section dedicated entirely to background material from the Dreamwave G1-verse
| [[October 3|03/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 42
| 48
| Revelation
| ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]: [[Spotlight: Arcee|Arcee]], [[Spotlight: Cyclonus|Cyclonus]], [[Spotlight: Hardhead|Hardhead]], [[Spotlight: Doubledealer|Doubledealer]], [[Spotlight: Sideswipe|Sideswipe]], [[Spotlight: Jazz|Jazz]], [[Spotlight: Metroplex|Metroplex]]''
| "-Ations" retrospective, sketchbook art from Alex Milne and E. J. Su reprinted from individual ''Spotlights''
| [[October 17|17/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 65
| 49
| Combiner Wars
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[First Contact (IDW)|#39]]–[[Now and On Earth|42]] [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2 #1–4]]
| An article on the [[Prime Wars Trilogy]]
| [[October 31|31/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 79
| 50
| Primeless
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Life of Sideswipe|#9]]–[[Primeless, Part 2|12]] ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light|Lost Light]]'' [[Chasing the Infinite|#9]]–[[The Plotters' Club (Part 3): Journey's End|12]]
| A one-page editorial by Simon Furman that mentions the IDW universe's impending end
| [[November 14|14/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 12
| 51
| Cosmic Carnival
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Enemy Action!|#152–153]], [[Salvage!|#160–161]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[People Power!|#42]], [[The Cosmic Carnival|44]]–[[Ca$h and Car-nage!|46]] Marvel UK [[Stargazing|#145]]
| A behind-the-scenes look at the UK-only return of Megatron
| [[November 28|28/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 25
| 52
| Prime Directive
| [[Prime Directive|''Tranformers: Generation 1'' vol. 1 #1–6]] (plus [[Prime Directive Preview|Preview]])
| A two-page article on 'the in-between years' covering the time when no-one had the ''Transformers'' licence for comics.
| [[December 12|12/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 53
| 53
| Liars, A to D
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Liars, A to D Part 1: How to Say Goodbye and Mean It|#1]]–[[Interiors|6]], ''[[The Reluctant Specialist|Spotlight: Trailcutter]]'' and ''[[The Waiting Game|Spotlight: Hoist]]''
| An all-new interview with James Roberts, rare archive material from the dawn of MTMTE, Alex Milne's sketchbook.
| [[December 26|26/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 55
| 54
| Shadowplay
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Rules of Disengagement (issue)|#7]]–[[More than Meets the Eye issue 13|13]], plus the [[Primus: You, Me, and Other Revelations|2012 Annual]]
| The second of a new three-part interview with Roberts, early pages of scripts, and design sketches from Alex Milne.
| [[January 9|09/01]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 13
| 55
| City of Fear
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[City of Fear!|#164]]–[[Deadly Games!|171]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Club Con!|#47]]–[[Dark Star|50]] "[[Dreadwing Down!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]]) "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1985]])
| A behind-the scenes look at a sea change moment for the US comic (Furman's takeover as head writer) and a [[Bob Budiansky]] sketchbook.
| [[January 23|23/01]]/2019
|-
| 41
| 56
| Drift
| [[The Transformers: Drift|''The Transformers: Drift'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlight:]] ''[[Spotlight: Drift|Drift]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Blaster]]''
| An article on creating Drift and some design sketches by [[Guido Guidi]].
| [[February 6|06/02]]/2019
|-
| 74
| 57
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[Pax Megatronus|#8]]–[[The War Never Ends|13]]
| No extras, but still has the cover art and intro from Furman present on all issues.
| [[February 20|20/02]]/2019
|-
| 47
| 58
| International Incident
| [[The Transformers: Bumblebee|''The Transformers: Bumblebee'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[International Incident Part 1: "The Land Ironclads"|#9]]–[[International Incident Part 4: "All My Sins Remembered"|12]]
| An interview with [[Zander Cannon]] and breakdowns for pages 1–4 of each issue of the ''Bumblebee'' mini-series.
| [[March 6|06/03]]/2019
|-
| 05
| 59
| The Smelting Pool
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Smelting Pool!|#17]]–[[Showdown!|20]] "[[Victory!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[In the National Interest|#74–77]]
|Background material on the [[Cybertron (planet)|planet Cybertron]] with map.
| [[March 20|20/03]]/2019
|-
| 54
| 60
| A Better Tomorrow
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[The Autonomy Lesson (issue)|#1]]–[[Interference Patterns|7]]
| A new interview with [[John Barber]]
| [[April 3|03/04]]/2019
|-
| 48
| 61
| Revenge of the Decepticons
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Heart Like a Wheel|#13]]–[[Revenge of the Decepticons Part 5: Enemy Mine|18]] ''[[Spotlight: Megatron]]''
| A ''Spotlight: Megatron'' sketchbook
| [[April 17|17/04]]/2019
|-
| 15
| 62
| Time Wars
| "[[All in the Minds!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Time Wars|#199–205]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Guess Who the Mecannibals Are Having for Dinner?|#52]]–[[The Interplanetary Wrestling Championship!|55]]
| A behind-the-scenes look at Galvatron's storyline
| [[May 1|01/05]]/2019
|-
| 58
| 63
| Shockpoint
|[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]] #[[Plan for Everything|15]]–[[Soundwaves (issue)|22]]
| A 2-page history of IDW Shockwave's history-setting plans.
| [[May 15|15/05]]/2019
|-
| 80
| 64
| Requiem of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[Your First Mistake|#12]] [[The Chosen One|''Till Are Are One'' Annual]] [[Ghost Stories|2017 ''Transformers'' Annual]] ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers|Requiem of the Wreckers]]''
| Wreckers sketchbook and notebook material from [[Nick Roche]].
| [[May 29|29/05]]/2019
|-
| 63
| 65
| Elegant Chaos
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Custom-Made Now - An Elegant Chaos Prologue|#35]]–[[The Frail Gaze|42]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[June 12|12/06]]/2019
|-
| 09
| 66
| Toy Soldiers
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Ancient Relics!|#125 and ''Action Force'' #24–27]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Crater Critters|#29]]–[[Used Autobots|32]], [[Child%27s_Play_(issue)|#35]]–[[Toy Soldiers!|37]]
| A one-page behind-the-scenes feature on "[[Man of Iron (issue)|Man of Iron]]" and how it got reprinted in the US comic.
| [[June 26|26/06]]/2019
|-
| 78
| 67
| New Cybertron
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[New Cybertron Part 1: To Walk Among the Chosen|#1]]–[[What It's Really Like|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Kei Zama]]
| [[July 10|10/07]]/2019
|-
| 67
| 68
| Conquerors
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[South of Heaven|#43]]–[[Conquerors Part 4: Perihelion|49]] ''[[An Uneventful Night|Combiner Hunters]]'' one-shot
| Development art by [[Andrew Griffith]]
| [[July 24|24/07]]/2019
|-
| 38
| 69
| Devastation
| ''[[The Transformers: Devastation]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]'' for [[Spotlight: Kup|Kup]], [[Spotlight: Ramjet|Ramjet]] and [[Spotlight: Cliffjumper|Cliffjumper]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 7|07/08]]/2019
|-
| 57
| 70
| Remain in Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Remembrance Day|#14]]–[[Remain in Light 5 of 5: This Calamitous Life|21]] Prose stories "[[Signal to Noise]]" and "[[The Sound of Breaking Glass]]"
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 21|21/08]]/2019
|-
| 77
| 71
| Dissolution
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Dissolution Part 1: Some Other Cybertron|#1]]–[[An Axe to Break the Ice|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Jack Lawrence]]
| [[September 4|04/09]]/2019
|-
| 69
| 72
| Sins of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Sins of the Wreckers|Sins of the Wreckers]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers Holiday Special]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[September 18|18/09]]/2019
|-
| 56
| 73
| City On Fire
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Dinobot Hunt (IDW)|#8]]–[[Before the Dawn|14]] [[Primus: All Good Things|2012 Annual]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[October 2|02/10]]/2019
|-
| 34
| 74
| Autocracy
| ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy]]'' miniseries ''[[The Hunting Party (IDW)|Spotlight: Thundercracker]]''
| A one-page article on ''Autocracy'', including an interview with co-writer [[Chris Metzen]].
| [[October 16|16/10]]/2019
|-
| 70
| 75
| Punishment
| ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Redemption]]'' one-shot ''[[The Transformers: Salvation]]'' one-shot
| An article about the Motion Book Tool app used for the digital version of ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'', a "Brief History of the (IDW) Dinobots", and a [[Livio Ramondelli]] sketchbook.
| [[October 30|30/10]]/2019
|-
| 27
| 76
| Worlds Collide Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_8|#8]]–[[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_13|13]] [[More_than_Meets_the_Eye:_Transformers:_Armada|''More than Meets the Eye: Armada'' ]] (select material)
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 13|13/11]]/2019
|-
| 68
| 77
| Empire of Stone
| ''[[The Transformers: Drift - Empire of Stone|Drift - Empire of Stone]]'' miniseries [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2]] issues 5–7
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 27|27/11]]/2019
|-
| 51
| 78
| Chaos Theory
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Police Action: Prologue|#21 ("Police Action: Prologue" only)]], [[Chaos Theory Part 1|#22–23]], [[Police Action: Part 1|25]], [[Police Action Part 2: Only Forward|27]], [[Police Action Part 3: A Second Chance at Eden|29]] [[The Question|Spotlight: Bumblebee]]
| A one-page article exploring the origins of the "[[Chaos (IDW)|Chaos]]" arc and beyond.
| [[December 11|11/12]]/2019
|-
| 66
| 79
| Speak, Memory
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The One Where They Go to Earth|#43]]–[[Speak, Memory! (Part 2)|49]]
| A one-page article about the [[Scavenger (group)|Scavengers]].
| [[December 25|25/12]]/2019
|-
| 61
| 80
| World, Shut Your Mouth
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[World, Shut Your Mouth Part 1: Towards Peace|#28]]–[[Births, Deaths, and Interventions|34]]
| A page of "Season 2" character posters.
| [[January 8|08/01]]/[[2020]]
|-
| 84
| 81
| The Falling: Part 1
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Dead Come Home, Part 1 (of 2)|#13]]–[[The Falling, Chapter 3: The Ground|17]] ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[Starscream: The Movie (comic)|Annual 2018]]
| A one-page article about the Primes.
| [[January 22|22/01]]/2020
|-
| 90
| 82
| Generation 2: Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[Ghosts|#0]]–[[The Gathering Darkness|6]]
| An article about [[Fleetway]]'s [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Fleetway)|UK ''Generation 2'' comic]], including [small-scale scans of] "[[War Without End (issue)|War Without End]]", their first UK-original ''G2'' strip.
| [[February 5|05/02]]/2020
|-
| 81
| 83
| Revolution
| ''[[Revolution]]'' [[Secret Raiders: A Revolution Prelude|#0]]–[[Valley Forge|5]] ''[[Thundercracker & Buster Save the World|The Transformers]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Informed|Till All Are One]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Nothing Will Ever Be the Same Again!|More than Meets the Eye]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro.
| [[February 19|19/02]]/2020
|-
| 89
| 84
| Realignments
| ''[[G.I. Joe and the Transformers (comic)|G.I. Joe and the Transformers]]'' [[Blood on the Tracks|#1]]–[[...All Fall Down!|4]] [[G.I. Joe (comic)|Marvel's ''G.I. Joe'']] [[Unfoldings!|#138]]–[[Final Transformations|142]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[March 4|04/03]]/2020
|-
| 82
| 85
| Revolutionaries
| ''[[Revolutionaries]]'' [[Crisis Intervention|#1]]–[[Ghost in the Machine (IDW)|8]]
| A two-page timeline of major IDW continuity events from issue #1, and the character profiles also from issue #1.
| [[March 18|18/03]]/2020
|-
| 92
| 86
| Transformers: The Movie
| [[Transformers: The Movie (Marvel comic)|Marvel's adaption]] of [[The Transformers: The Movie|the 1986 animated movie]] [[Transformers: The Animated Movie|IDW's adaption]] of that same movie
| A one-page article about the movie-verse in comics.
| [[April 1|01/04]]/2020
|-
| 83
| 87
| First Strike
| ''[[First Strike]]'' [[First Strike issue 0|#0]]–[[First Strike issue 6|6]] [[Unification Day: Dusk|First Strike: Transformers]] one-shot [[Unification Day: Dawn|First Strike: Optimus Prime]] one-shot
| A one-page "Prelude to...Unicron!" article, preceding the reprint of "[[First Strike issue 6#Coda: "The Signal"|The Signal]]".
| [[April 22|22/04]]/2020
|-
| 95
| 88
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 1
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers'' #1–6]]
| A one-page article about Devil's Due, a two-page article about creating the "Devil's Due-verse" and three pages of [[Mike S. Miller]]'s sketchbook art.
| [[May 13|13/05]]/2020
|-
| 85
| 89
| The Falling, Part 2
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Falling, Interlude: The First Who Was Named|#18]]–[[A Sunrise Dark|24]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[June 3|03/06]]/2020
|-
| 93
| 90
| Beast Wars: The Gathering
| [[Transformers, Beast Wars: The Gathering|''Beast Wars: The Gathering'' #1–4]]
and material from [[Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook]]
| An introduction by [[Ben Yee]], a 2-page "Unleash the Beast Wars" feature detailing the origins of the show and toyline, a 3-page "Creating the BW-Verse" interview with [[Bob Forward]], a 2-page "The (G1) roots of the Beast Wars" feature detailing the G1 elements in the show, 4 pages of [[Don Figueroa]]'s design sketches, and a reprint of the "[[Optimus Primal vs Megatron!]]" toy pack-in comic.
| [[June 17|17/06]]/2020
|-
| 86
| 91
| The Everlasting Voices
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Sardines|#13]]–[[The Everlasting Voices (3): You Are Here|18]]
| The first half of ''[[Transformers: Historia]]'' (up to ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'', including the [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]] profile, which was itself copied from the ''[[Hasbro Heroes Sourcebook]]''.
| [[July 1|01/07]]/2020
|-
| 96
| 92
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 2
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II'' #1–4]] [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War'' #1–2]]
| A two-page sketchbook of [[Don Figueroa]]'s original pencils for the the first 8 pages of ''The Art of War''.
| [[July 15|15/07]]/2020
|-
| 87
| 93
| Crucible
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Crucible (Part 1): A Dance Before Dying|#19]]–[[Crucible (Part 6): A Spark Among Embers|24]]
| The second half of ''[[Transformers: Historia]]'' including the [[Optimus Prime (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Optimus Prime]] profile.
| [[July 29|29/07]]/2020
|-
| 91
| 94
| Generation 2, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[New Dawn|#7]]–[[A Rage in Heaven!|12]]
|
| [[August 12|12/08]]/2020
|-
| 88
| 95
| Unicron
| ''[[Transformers: Unicron]]'' [[Our Darkest|#0]]–[[Ceremony|6]] (assumed) ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[Post|#25]] (assumed) ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[How To Say Goodbye And Mean It: Part 2|25]] (assumed)
|
| [[August 26|26/08]]/2020
|-
| 94
| 96
| Beast Wars: The Ascending
| [[Transformers: Beast Wars: The Ascending|''Beast Wars: The Ascending'' #1–4]] (assumed)
|
| [[September 9|09/09]]/2020
|-
| 97
| 97
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 3
| [[Devil's Due Press|DDP]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War'' #3–5]] [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: Black Horizon|''G.I. Joe vs, the Transformers: Black Horizon'' #1–2]]
|
| [[September 23|23/09]]/2020
|-
| 98
| 98
| The World In Your Eyes
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The World In Your Eyes Part One|#1]]–[[Orion Pax: Free Fall|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[October 7|07/10]]/2020
|-
| 99
| 99
| The Cracks Beneath Your Feet
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The Cracks Beneath Your Feet Part One|#7]]–[[Nautica: Home|12]] (assumed)
|
| [[October 21|21/10]]/2020
|-
| 100
| 100
| Constructicons Rising
| ''[[Transformers: Galaxies]]'' [[Constructicons Rising, Part 1|#1]]–[[Wannabee, Part 2|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[November 4|04/11]]/2020
|}

==Curation==
Although this collection was curated by Simon Furman, the man directly responsible for many of the stories it contains, many of the decisions it makes seem to be far from ideal.

Presumably as a result of these being the master copies in Hasbro's possession, Marvel US reprints are drawn from IDW's ''[[The Transformers Classics]]'' 'remasters', complete with newly-introduced typos, haphazard attempts to 'fix' errors, washed-out linework, and less authentic coloring than John-Paul Bove's brand new efforts! In a similar vein, cover galleries include the covers for both the US and UK stories, but ''not'' the UK-exclusive covers for US stories. This focus on presenting the 'unmodified' versions of US comics means that many of the minor edits made to those stories for their original UK printings (to better jive with Furman's expanded continuity) are absent.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-9#post-14167234 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "In order to smooth over the continuity cracks between the UK and US stories, the US books were usually edited (US#16-24 were especially affected) for their UK printing. But rather than the UK edits of the American stories, we get the familiar US versions. <nowiki>[...]</nowiki> Oh, and on page 214, there's a factual error as well, when it states that Transformers UK sold 200,000 copies per week. That's actually completely false. It actually sold 100,000 copies per week at its peak. That said, each individual comic sold would tend to be read by a number of people, as kids lent or gave their comics to siblings or school friends. It was calculated that, on average, each comic sold would be read by two-point-five people. Marvel (and other comic publishers such as Fleetway or IPC) would therefore take the ''actual'' circulation figures and apply this 2.5 multiplier to give a total readership that did exceed two hundred thousand on occasion. So whilst the ''readership'' was arguably 250K-plus, the actual ''number of copies'' sold was nowhere near that figure.</ref>

===Reading order===
The actual ordering of the Marvel material is far from straightforward, for various reasons:
*The two Furman-penned comics from [[Transformers Annual 1985|the 1995 annual]] don't have a particular place in the continuity: "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" is a standalone flashback that isn't referenced until UK #44, while "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" is a non-canonical present-day story written to promote toys that weren't appearing in the comic at the time. Presumably for reasons of space, they're included as backmatter in volumes 2 and 13; the latter consists mostly of stories released three years later!
*Volume 3 presents UK #41-50 before US #11-12, when they should be the other way around. Apparently this was a deliberate decision to place focus on the UK story the volume was centred around!<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/315915/thread Facebook post quoted by Andy Turnbull on the Transmasters UK forums]: "While we make every effort to maintain the original flow and continuity of the Marvel UK/US TRANSFORMERS stories, the self-contained identity and integrity of each individual volume is of paramount importance, especially as the collections aren’t released in chronological order. So, in a heavily UK-centric volume titled Dinobot Hunt, we took the decision to lead with the main/bulk of 'Dinobot Hunt' (and preceding issues) itself. Both UK and US strips are prefaced with a dedicated Story So Far to ease readers into the respective narratives, so they can be enjoyed together or in and of themselves. Naturally, we regret any inherent ‘spoilers’, but our policy is to create coherent and self-supportive volumes that anyone, casual reader or long-time fan, can pick up and enjoy."</ref>
*The minor Marvel productions "[[The Night the Transformers Saved Christmas]]" and "[[The Special Teams Have Arrived]]" are absent—but of course, the latter was completely retold in UK #63-65, included here in volume 4.
*The two comic stories from [[Transformers Annual 1986|the 1986 annual]] aren't directly connected to specific issues; "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" doesn't really fit into continuity, but certainly takes place after UK #65—which is where the partwork puts it—while "[[Victory!]]" (which explains what happened to the Dinobots between UK #50 and #65) is placed before UK #74-77, another Dinobot-centric story.
*"[[The Gift]]", UK #93's seasonal story by [[James Hill]], is omitted; it should be placed in volume 6 between US #22 and US #23.
*Volume 8 reshuffles things slightly relative to publication order; US #27 was originally published before UK #113-120, but is moved afterwards. As the stories aren't connected, this doesn't really affect anything.
*The stories from [[Transformers Annual 1987|the 1987 annual]] are scattered. "[[Vicious Circle!]]" is placed in volume 8 alongside UK #113-120, collectively forming the first "post-movie" storyline. "What's In a Name?" is placed in volume 11 directly before UK #135-136, which developed its premise further. "[[Ark Duty]]" is also thrown into volume 11, after UK #146-151... despite chronologically taking place some time before that story.
*In a move that actually ''improves'' readability, the ''[[Action Force (comic)|Action Force]]'' crossover "[[Ancient Relics!]]" (which originally interrupted the unrelated two-part story told across US #29-30) is moved before #29.
*[[Worlds Apart!|UK #130-131]] was written as an introduction to the Headmaster concept to UK audiences; it's recontextualised here as a flashback, letting the ''[[The Transformers: Headmasters| Headmasters]]'' miniseries lead directly into [[Trial by Fire!|US #38]]. Keeping UK-original strips in publication order however then causes trouble with [[Ladies' Night (issue)|UK #137-138]], which set up the Combaticons' appearance in... [[Used Autobots|US #32]], and [[Enemy Action!|UK #152-153]], which takes place before the launch of [[Club Con]] in [[The Desert Island of Space!|US #39]].
*[[Stargazing|UK #145]], a fairly standalone Christmas story, is thrown in at the end of volume 12.
*When Furman took over the US comic, the UK strips (having switched to black-and-white) generally stopped tying directly into the US material. Exceptions included [[Race with the Devil|UK #215-218]] setting up [[Back from the Dead|US #56]], Thunderwing's rise to power across [[The Big Shutdown!|UK #230-231]] and [[Rage!|#241]]-[[Assault on the Ark!|242]] paying off in [[Yesterday's Heroes!|US #60]], [[Out to Lunch!|UK #240]] following on from [[Skin Deep|US #59]], [[Mind Games|UK #243]]-[[Two Megatrons!|244]] further explaining Megatron's appearance in US #56-59, [[Whose Lifeforce Is It Anyway?|UK #249]] being nodded to in [[Bird of Prey!|US #62]], and the events of [[Deathbringer (issue)|UK #235-236]] being directly referenced in [[Dark Creation|US #65]]. This collection includes these comics in clumps during breaks in the action, ignoring most of this connective tissue.
*Starting with [[...Perchance to Dream|UK #255]] (as noted on the [[Earthforce]] page), the UK material effectively diverged into an entire alternate timeline; most of these stories are placed together at the end of volume 20.

The ordering of IDW's comics, meanwhile, can only be described as impenetrable to a new reader. As ''Infiltration'' was the starting point for that continuity, it is presented as the first volume, but in a stab towards chronological ordering the next volumes are devoted to prequels such as ''[[Megatron: Origin]]'' and ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy| Autocracy]]'', which were released well after the fact and don't really mesh well here. Even Furman's own work isn't safe: ''[[The Transformers: Maximum Dinobots| Maximum Dinobots]]'' is placed before ''[[Revelation (IDW)|Revelation]]'', and the other ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight| Spotlight]]'' issues are thrown in haphazardly wherever space allows. How much of the material following his run Furman has actually read, only he can say.

===Omissions===
It's apparent that when the partwork was planned out, Hatchette intended to be the first company to reprint the latter-day [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] material such as [[Transformers: Generation 1 (Dreamwave)|the Sunstorm arc]], ''[[Transformers: Micromasters|Micromasters]]'', and the ''[[20th Anniversary Transformers Summer Special|Summer Special]]''<ref>[https://simonfurman.wordpress.com/2017/01/ Simon Furman on WordPress]: "all the Dreamwave G1 material that saw print in single-issue form will be collected, including the rare Summer Special story, Welcome to the Jungle, and their ongoing G1 series"</ref> in volumes 27 and 28—but those volumes wound up containing issues from Dreamwave's ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)| Armada]]'' comic, which merely guest-starred G1 characters and seem very out of place in a "Definitive ''G1'' Collection" (unsurprisingly, the rest of the ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)| Armada]]'' and ''[[Transformers: Energon (comic)| Energon]]'' material is omitted). Presumably, this late change occurred for the same reason those stories have never been reprinted in the first place—nobody's sure whether the creative teams were actually ''paid'' for their work. A summary of ''[[Transformers: War Within: The Age of Wrath|The Age of Wrath]]'' was included, but none of the finished issues of that series or of ''[[Transformers/G.I. Joe: Divided Front]]'' were reprinted.

Many of the collection's other omissions can easily be considered editorial choices:
*The prose stories from Marvel UK's annuals are omitted, although it bears mentioning that most of them were written by authors other than Furman and are tricky to reconcile with the continuity proper anyway. Furman's stories are more conspicuous by their absence: "[[The Magnificent Six!]]" from the 1991 annual was part of the Earthforce storyline, and the 1992 annual's "[[Another Time & Place]]" was effectively the original coda to his Marvel run. UK #302's "[[Dreadwind's Xmas!]]" is absent too, notable for focusing on Dreadwind's time [[Letters page (Marvel UK)|answering letters]] for Marvel UK.
*At most, only small extracts are given of the various profile books released over the years: Marvel's ''[[The Transformers Universe]]'', Dreamwave's ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye| More than Meets the Eye]]'', and IDW's ''[[Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook| Beast Wars Sourcebook]]'' and ''[[Hasbro Heroes Sourcebook]]''.
*None of the material released by [[3H Productions]] or [[Fun Publications]] was printed in this collection.
*Minor pack-in comics like [[Milton Bradley]]'s "[[In the Transformers]]", [[Metrodome]]'s "[[The Beast Within]]", Madman Entertainment's "[[The Transformers (Madman)|The Transformers]]" and IDW's "[[Rodimus vs. Cyclonus]]" are understandably left out.
*IDW's non-''G.I. Joe'' crossover miniseries are all omitted: ''[[New Avengers/Transformers]]'', ''[[Aw Yeah Revolution!]]'', ''[[Rom vs. Transformers: Shining Armor]]'', ''[[Transformers vs. Visionaries]]'', ''[[Angry Birds Transformers (comic)|Angry Birds Transformers]]'', ''[[Star Trek vs. Transformers]]'', and ''[[Transformers/Ghostbusters]]''. So too are most of the tie-ins to their once-annual multi-property events: ''[[Infestation 2]]'', ''[[Mars Attacks: The Transformers|Mars Attacks]]'', ''[[The X-Files: Conspiracy: The Transformers|The X-Files: Conspiracy]]'', and ''[[Transformers: Deviations| Deviations]]''.

Less forgivable is the omission of "[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe: The Movie Adaptation]]", and that of the four-page "[[Black Cybertron]]" prose story from [[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe issue 10|issue #10]]. The various prose stories, profiles and comics first printed with the collected editions of ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'' are also absent.

==Coloring==
Colorist John-Paul Bove, known for his work on ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One| Regeneration One]]'', was hired by Hatchette to give color to black-and-white UK-original stories. The first of these was "[[Raiders of the Last Ark]]", included in volume 1. Like many of the earliest UK strips, only some of its instalments were printed in color, but this was the only story not to be later colourised in a reprint at the time. For this collection, Bove colored the entire comic in a style as close to the original marker-pens as possible, with the only edits being to correct an error and to put [[Guardian (Marvel)|Guardian]]'s colors in line with the character's later appearances.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/282848/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "Raiders has been coloured to match as closely as possible the original. As far as I can tell the original was coloured in marker pen! This involved some exceptionally detailed hi res scans and taking the texture and colour choices from the original (including a Megs with a lot of gold!). There were two changes made to the originals, one was a colouring error pointed out by Mike Collins himself that affected the linework (see if you can spot it) that I corrected and the other was that the Guardian colours were changed to match all subsequent appearances. When he is taken down he is left a solid colour in that Yomtovy way of doing things."</ref>

For the black-and-white strips printed following the UK comic's format change in 1989, Bove colored the stories depending on whether their plots tied into the UK or the US continuity. He cites "[[Race with the Devil]]" (the first black-and-white story of this kind) and "[[Fallen Star!]]" as examples of US-relevant stories. Meanwhile stories like "[[Survivors]]" emulated the richer colour combinations employed by the UK teams.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/282848/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "As stated in the colour commentary in vol 3, the style of colouring for the strips depends entirely on the continuity it follows regardless of which country it originated in. So Race with the Devil and Fallen Star follow US continuity despite being a UK originated strip. So the colour ref will follow what was in the Underbase Saga and the stories containing the classic Pretenders (so background Soundwave is Magenta as Ed said). At a certain point along the way the UK was instructed to follow the US way of colouring, so the techniques becomes the same though the guys and gals in the UK were geniuses in making combinations to generate richer pallets. That's why Survivors etc has been done in a richer, denser style."</ref> "[[Aspects of Evil!]]" and the [[Earthforce]] stories were colored to look like they could've been rendered with inks and airbrushes.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/282848/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "For Aspects of Evil (coming soon!) the colouring style is not bound by continuity. I felt doing something like Regen would be too far removed from the time, but instead I have coloured it in a way that could have been rendered with inks and airbrush but that still feels modern without any computer trickery. It's a style based a little on contrast and is hopefully both bold and subtle."</ref>

In some cases, Bove made choices with regards to color schemes based on in-universe reasoning, most notably with [[Xaaron]] and [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] in volume 19.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/299016/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "With Xaaron I was pretty sure that his appearance here was chronologically the first we'd seen him so I decided to make him his UK colours and leave his all yellow look something he got shortly after. This was partly because his all yellow look was awful and there was enough wiggle room to do it. Soundwave on the other hand had appeared magenta before the events of Starscream's Pretender process and after so to change him to blue for this moment between other moments requires a bigger ask. There is a whole complicated reasoning that had to apply to Thunderwing precisely because he appears in different colours in between coloured appearances. I reasoned that he was burned then jumped into the sea which lead to one colour change, got repaired and recoloured when he got back to the ship and then got given a final upgrade when he got made leader. I spent forever working out a logic that would make sense of all the colour schemes he had that I had to jump between. There was definitely method to the madness and many, many hours were spent making it as consistent, justified and sympathetic as possible."</ref>

==Notes==
* The free gifts shipped to subscribers with the first five deliveries (each consisting of two isses - except the first, which included a third issue free) were:
** Autobot/Decepticon [[insignia]] keyrings!
** A wallet!
** A tin-plate version of the cover to "[[Dark Star]]", featuring a cosmically-empowered [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]]!
** A mug!
** A pair of metal Autobot/Decepticon insignia bookends!<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20170112033736/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* Before the partwork launched, the second free gift was advertised as an [[Insignia|Autobrand]] belt buckle.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20160914212214/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* The first issue collected "[[Target: 2006]]", and was coincidentally out at newsagents thirty years after the story originally ran.<ref>[http://thesolarpool.weebly.com/transformers-uk227.html Solar Pool]: "The Target: 2006 book is already out... if it doesn’t [finish], Target: 2006 was back on at least some newsagents shelves towards the end of its 30th anniversary week. How cool is that?"</ref>
* The printings of Marvel material aren't really identical to those released by IDW—for instance, issue 1 (volume 6 - confused yet?) includes various Marvel trademarks (such as the superheroes around the edge of the cover to "Heavy Traffic" and the kid wearing a Spider-Man t-shirt in "Decepticon Graffiti") which were painted out of IDW's reprints due to rights issues.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-10#post-14168736 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "The weird thing is, though, these '''aren't''' the IDW versions. The cover to Heavy Traffic has all the Marvel characters around the edge, and the little kid in Decepticon Graffiti is wearing his Spider-Man t-shirt. This stuff was painted out of the IDW trades due to rights issues with Marvel."</ref>

===Errors===
* When the website launched, it accidentally credited [[Andrew Wildman|Andrew ''Wlid''man]].
* Copies of the first issue provided to general retail and initial subscribers had an error on the spine, with the black volume number box at the top being the wrong size.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14249131 ultra badness on the TFW2005 forums]: "I just got an email from Hachette to say they had misprinted the spine art on issue 1. And hey will send a replacement. Hurrah! Im going to have 3 issues!"</ref> Subscribers received free corrected copies, while those who bought theirs at newsagents had to wait for replacements which were included with issue 7.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14256091 Magnus' Mate on TFW2005]: "Incidentally, the 'corrected' #1 will be available to non-subscribers as well, included free with issue #7!"</ref> Hachette were seen giving away error-stricken copies for free at a signing event at a London comic shop.<ref>[http://forums.millarworld.tv/t/the-trades-thread-hardcovers-graphic-novels-and-more/4923/2359 Millarworld forums (dead link)]</ref> This error shouldn't be confused with the change in spine art for the first four issues made between the limited trial run and the mass release,<ref>[http://www.facebook.com/TransformersG1Collection/posts/1533415153338562?comment_id=1533436356669775&reply_comment_id=1533593929987351 Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection on Facebook]</ref> which means that anyone who subscribed to the series from its trial will end up with ''three'' different copies of issue 1.
* The poster included with issue 1 includes a bio for [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]]... which uses an image of [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]].<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13983869 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "Also: the poster that comes with Volume 1 (Target: 2006) shows some small character bios but goofs up the "Jazz" bio by using a picture of Prowl."</ref>
* The trial versions of issues 1 and 2 had the inside cover art swapped: the "Target: 2006" book had artwork for ''Stormbringer'', and vice versa.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13989359 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "On anybody else's copies, is the inside cover art wrong? I've got Stormbringer art inside the Target:2006 book, and Target:2006 art inside the Stormbringer book."</ref>
* A feature in issue 1 states that the Marvel UK comic sold 200,000 copies per week, when really it only sold 100,000 per week ''at its peak''. This error presumably stems from the fact that Marvel (and other publishers at the time) multiplied their circulation figures by 2.5 to calculate their readership, as they estimated that many issues would be shared between friends and siblings.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>
* Hatchette's own masterings of the comics introduce yet more errors. In issue 1, for example, an instance of '[[Skids (G1)|]]' in dialogue is misspelled as 'Skips'.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14277882 Bass X0 on the TFW2005 forums]: "In Decepticon Graffiti, Skids is called Skips on the second page."</ref> This error was not present in IDW's original reprints.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-13#post-14316444 Magnus' Mate on the TFW2005 forums]: "Except the IDW "Transformers Classics" volume 2 with issue #23 in doesn't have this same problem - Skids is still Skids, not Skips! I know there are other problems with them, but this one is on Hachette."</ref>
* The bio for John Paul Bove included in issue 3 (volume 16) was apparently written by himself in the first person, then edited into the third person—one of the sentences written in first person remains!<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-8#post-14101771 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "There is also a half page bio on JP, which was obviously written by himself in the first person, and then edited to be the third person- but they missed one of the first person senetnces and it is still in there!"</ref>
* Some copies of volume 22 had a number erroneously printed on one of the pages.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-20#post-15179844 rodster6 on the TFW2005 forums]: "Got volume 7 today (which I think is issue 22) and there is a weird number printed randomly on one page that shouldn't be there."</ref>
* The first print run for volume 35 had an error where the last two pages of ''Monstrosity'' #11 were swapped with two from "War and Peace" #3.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-18#post-14880721 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "The last two pages of Monstrosity #11 have been swapped with the ones from W&P #3"</ref>
* Many volumes include pages which are stuck together, though this is easy enough for the reader to fix.
* Though some readers may try to convince you otherwise, [[Mister Johnson]] is not an error.

==Covers==
<center><gallery caption="Marvel (US & UK)" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v1.jpg|Vol 1: Power Play
DefinitiveG1Collection v2.jpg|Vol 2: New Order
DefinitiveG1Collection v3.jpg|Vol 3: Dinobot Hunt
DefinitiveG1Collection v4.jpg|Vol 4: Second Generation
DefinitiveG1Collection v5.jpg|Vol 5: The Smelting Pool
DefinitiveG1Collection v6.jpg|Vol 6: Target: 2006
DefinitiveG1Collection v7.jpg|Vol 7: The Harder They Die
DefinitiveG1Collection v8.jpg|Vol 8: Wanted: Galvatron - Dead or Alive
DefinitiveG1Collection v9.jpg|Vol 9: Toy Soldiers
DefinitiveG1Collection v10.jpg|Vol 10: Trial by Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v11.jpg|Vol 11: The Legacy of Unicron
DefinitiveG1Collection v12.jpg|Vol 12: Cosmic Carnival
DefinitiveG1Collection v13.jpg|Vol 13: City of Fear
DefinitiveG1Collection v14.jpg|Vol 14: Space Pirates
DefinitiveG1Collection v15.jpg|Vol 15: Time Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v16.jpg|Vol 16: The Primal Scream
DefinitiveG1Collection v17.jpg|Vol 17: Matrix Quest
DefinitiveG1Collection v18.jpg|Vol 18: Edge of Extinction
DefinitiveG1Collection v19.jpg|Vol 19: Perchance to Dream
DefinitiveG1Collection v20.jpg|Vol 20: End of the Road
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Marvel's Generation 2" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v89.jpg|Vol 89: Realignments
DefinitiveG1Collection v90.jpg|Vol 90: Generation 2 Part 1

</gallery>
<gallery caption="IDW's Regeneration One" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v21.jpg|Vol 21: Regeneration One
DefinitiveG1Collection v22.jpg|Vol 22: Natural Selection
DefinitiveG1Collection v23.jpg|Vol 23: Destiny
DefinitiveG1Collection v24.jpg|Vol 24: The War to End All Wars
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Dreamwave Productions" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v25.jpg|Vol 25: Prime Directive
DefinitiveG1Collection v26.jpg|Vol 26: War and Peace
DefinitiveG1Collection v27.jpg|Vol 27: Worlds Collide Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v28.jpg|Vol 28: Worlds Collide Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v29.jpg|Vol 29: The War Within
DefinitiveG1Collection v30.jpg|Vol 30: War Within: The Dark Ages
DefinitiveG1Collection v31.jpg|Vol 31: The Iron Fist
</gallery>

<gallery caption="2005 IDW continuity" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v32.jpg|Vol 32: Infiltration
DefinitiveG1Collection v33.jpg|Vol 33: Megatron Origin
DefinitiveG1Collection v34.jpg|Vol 34: Autocracy
DefinitiveG1Collection v35.jpg|Vol 35: Primacy
DefinitiveG1Collection v36.jpg|Vol 36: Stormbringer
DefinitiveG1Collection v37.jpg|Vol 37: Escalation
DefinitiveG1Collection v38.jpg|Vol 38: Devastation
DefinitiveG1Collection v39.jpg|Vol 39: Hearts of Steel
DefinitiveG1Collection v40.jpg|Vol 40: Maximum Dinobots
DefinitiveG1Collection v41.jpg|Vol 41: Drift
DefinitiveG1Collection v42.jpg|Vol 42: Revelation
DefinitiveG1Collection v43.jpg|Vol 43: All Hail Megatron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v44.jpg|Vol 44: All Hail Megatron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v45.jpg|Vol 45: Last Stand of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v46.jpg|Vol 46: Things Fall Apart
DefinitiveG1Collection v47.jpg|Vol 47: International Incident
DefinitiveG1Collection v48.jpg|Vol 48: Revenge of the Decepticons
DefinitiveG1Collection v49.jpg|Vol 49: The Iron Age
DefinitiveG1Collection v50.jpg|Vol 50: Heart of Darkness
DefinitiveG1Collection v51.jpg|Vol 51: Chaos Theory
DefinitiveG1Collection v52.jpg|Vol 52: The Death of Optimus Prime
DefinitiveG1Collection v53.jpg|Vol 53: Liars, A to D
DefinitiveG1Collection v54.jpg|Vol 54: A Better Tomorrow
DefinitiveG1Collection v55.jpg|Vol 55: Shadowplay
DefinitiveG1Collection v56.jpg|Vol 56: City On Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v57.jpg|Vol 57: Remain In Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v58.jpg|Vol 58: Shockpoint
DefinitiveG1Collection v59.jpg|Vol 59: Dark Cybertron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v60.jpg|Vol 60: Dark Cybertron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v61.jpg|Vol 61: World Shut Your Mouth
DefinitiveG1Collection v62.jpg|Vol 62: Earthfall
DefinitiveG1Collection v63.jpg|Vol 63: Elegant Chaos
DefinitiveG1Collection v64.jpg|Vol 64: Windblade
DefinitiveG1Collection v65.jpg|Vol 65: Combiner Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v66.jpg|Vol 66: Speak, Memory
DefinitiveG1Collection v67.jpg|Vol 67: Conquerors
DefinitiveG1Collection v68.jpg|Vol 68: Empire of Stone
DefinitiveG1Collection v69.jpg|Vol 69: Sins of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v70.jpg|Vol 70: Punishment
DefinitiveG1Collection v71.jpg|Vol 71: All Hail Optimus
DefinitiveG1Collection v72.jpg|Vol 72: The Dying of the Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v75.jpg|Vol 75: Titans Return, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v76.jpg|Vol 76: Titans Return, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v77.jpg|Vol 77: Dissolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v78.jpg|Vol 78: New Cybertron
DefinitiveG1Collection v79.jpg|Vol 79: Primeless
DefinitiveG1Collection v80.jpg|Vol 80: Requiem of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v81.jpg|Vol 81: Revolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v82.jpg|Vol 82: Revolutionaries
DefinitiveG1Collection v83.jpg|Vol 83: First Strike
DefinitiveG1Collection v84.jpg|Vol 84: The Falling Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v85.jpg|Vol 85: The Falling Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v86.jpg|Vol 86: The Everlasting Voices
DefinitiveG1Collection v87.jpg|Vol 87: Crucible

</gallery>
<gallery caption="Miscellaneous" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v73.jpg|Vol 73: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v74.jpg|Vol 74: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v92.jpg|Vol 92: Transformers: The Movie
DefinitiveG1Collection v93.jpg|Vol 93: Beast Wars: The Gathering

DefinitiveG1Collection v95.jpg|Vol 95: G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v96.jpg|Vol 96: G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 2

</gallery>






''[[:Category:Definitive G1 Collection covers|Extended cover gallery]]''</center>

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

==External links==
*[http://www.transformerscollection.com/ Official website]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Definitive G1 Collection}}
[[Category:Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics continuity comic compilations]]
[[Category:Dreamwave Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Generation 1 comic compilations]]

Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection

2020-07-06T10:38:24Z

YoungDoctor: /* Volumes */

[[File:Definitive G1 Collection in full.jpg|thumb|upright=3.05|4/5 of a grand tale.]]

'''Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection''' is a fortnightly 100-volume partwork from [[Hachette]], edited by [[Simon Furman]]. Partworks are a Hachette specialty: a series will be collected out of order (the first ''Definitive'' was volume 6) for commercial purposes but can be collected on your shelf in order with a fancy picture on the collective spines. The collection aims to republish every single "Generation 1" comic ever made, including the original [[Marvel Comics]] run—UK and US—in order for the very first time. Each issue has a special cover and bonus content, and [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)#Fantastic Free Gift.21|Fantastic FREE! Gifts]] are provided for subscribers. Marvel UK strips which were originally printed in black-and-white have been given brand new colours by [[John-Paul Bove]] using emulations of both 1980s American and latter-day Marvel UK techniques.<ref>"A Different Approach to Colour", Vol.16</ref>

The series was initially announced in September 2016 to contain 60 issues—ending with the ''Dark Cybertron'' crossover—but by the time of its launch in December, it had already been extended to 80 issues, with volume 80 providing some closure in the form of ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One| Till All Are One]]'' and ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers| Requiem of the Wreckers]]''. In 2018, upon the conclusion of IDW's first continuity, fans observed that it would take around ten extra volumes to reprint the entire IDW catalogue—and on the 18th of July 2019, Simon Furman confirmed on Twitter that the collection had been extended by ''twenty'' issues for a total of 100.

Sounds great, right?

Well... not if you live outside the [[United Kingdom]] and [[Ireland]]. The partwork was given a trial-run in parts of the UK before a national release started in early 2017. In August 2017, the subscription also became available in [[Australia]],<ref>[http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?s=438cea1ad48786466241053a45f743ae&t=24685 Ozformers Transformers Club of Australia]: UK Definitive Comic collection from Hachette now in Australia</ref> but became unavailable in July 2018 due to the closure of the Australian distributor. In January 2019, it became available in [[Poland]],<ref>[https://transformers-kolekcja.pl/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIrYTRuabz3wIVl-F3Ch2P7wirEAAYASAAEgJKLvD_BwE Polish version of official site]</ref> with volumes being released in proper chronological order.

Even for those who were able to subscribe, the partwork ended up not being quite as ''definitive'' as advertised, suffering from strange ordering and editorial choices, and from some major printing errors. Hachette's notoriously-bad customer service made it a nightmare to obtain corrected replacements.

==Volumes==
{{note|Each volume contains cover art from the original issues, plus a new introduction by Simon Furman. The bonus features below are in addition to these.}}
{| class="wikitable sortable"
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Vol.
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Issue
! scope="col" style="width: 125px;" | Title
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Contents
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Bonus Features
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Release date
|-
| 06
| 01
|Target: 2006
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Target: 2006|#78–83]] "[[Cybertron: The Middle Years!]]" Marvel UK [[Target: 2006|#84–88]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Aerialbots over America!|#21]]–[[Decepticon Graffiti!|23]]
| A guide to the launch of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' in the UK and its marketing purposes for Marvel UK, a "Meet... The [[Wrecker]]s" feature, a behind-the-scenes look at the development of "Target: 2006", and a spotlight on [[Geoff Senior]].
|[[December 30|30/12]]/[[2016]]
|-
| 36
| 02
| Stormbringer
| ''[[Spotlight: Shockwave]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Soundwave]]'' [[The Transformers: Stormbringer|''Stormbringer'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Nightbeat]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Hot Rod]]''
| An article on the beginning of IDW-verse production and several sketches by Figueroa.
|[[January 11|11/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 16
| 03
| The Primal Scream
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Cold Comfort and Joy!|#198]], [[The Fall and Rise of the Decepticon Empire.|#213]]–[[Survivors!|222]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Back from the Dead|#56]]–[[The Primal Scream|61]]
| An overview of the change in format of the UK series and the introduction of 5-page black-and-white strips, and an article by Bove on the colouring techniques used at Marvel UK and Marvel US in the 1980s, and how he emulated them for colourising the UK strips.
|[[January 27|27/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 18
| 04
| Edge of Extinction
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Rhythms of Darkness!|#67]]–[[On the Edge of Extinction!|75]]
| An overview of [[Unicron/Generation 1#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel's Unicron]] and a spotlight on [[Andrew Wildman]].
|[[February 8|08/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 29
| 05
| The War Within
| [[Transformers: The War Within|The War Within #1–6]] and [[The War Within Preview|preview]]
| Various character design sketches by [[Don Figueroa]] and an article on the making of ''The War Within''.
|[[February 22|22/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 37
| 06
| Escalation
| ''[[Spotlight: Sixshot]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Ultra Magnus]]'' [[The Transformers: Escalation|''Escalation'' #1–6]]
| Sketches by [[E. J. Su]], bios on [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|IDW Ultra Magnus]] & [[Sixshot (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Sixshot]], an article on creating the IDW ''Spotlights'', and an interview with Su. 
|[[March 8|08/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 08
| 07
| Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive!|#113]]–[[Fire on High!|120]] "[[Vicious Circle!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[King of the Hill!|#27]]–[[Mechanical Difficulties!|28]]
| An overview of the Marvel UK Annuals and a bio on [[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Goldbug]].
|[[March 22|22/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 39
| 08
| Hearts of Steel
| [[Hearts of Steel|''Hearts of Steel'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Galvatron]], [[Spotlight: Optimus Prime]], [[Spotlight: Mirage]]''
| Concept art by [[Guido Guidi]] and an article about the creation of ''Hearts of Steel''.
|[[April 5|05/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 10
| 09
| Trial by Fire
| [[The Transformers: Headmasters|Headmasters #1–4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Trial by Fire!|#38]]–[[The Desert Island of Space!|39]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Worlds Apart!|#130]]–[[Kup's Story!|132]]
| A retrospective on the [[The Transformers: Headmasters|''Headmasters'' miniseries]] and an overview of how Marvel UK handled toy marketing.
| [[April 19|19/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 21
| 10
| Regeneration One
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Counterpoint|#80.5]]–[[Loose Ends, Part 5|85]]
| A commentary on [[Loose Ends, Part 1|issue #81]] by Simon Furman, an overview on production leading up to ''Regeneration One'', and several cover sketches.
| [[May 3|03/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 31
| 11
| The Iron Fist
| [[Transformers/G.I. Joe|Transformers/G.I. Joe #1–6]]
| Various character design sketches by Figueroa and an overview of the many [[G.I. Joe crossovers]] across the comics.
| [[May 17|17/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 50
| 12
| Heart of Darkness
| [[The Transformers: Heart of Darkness|''Heart of Darkness'' #1–4]] [[Infestation (IDW)|''The Transformers: Infestation'' #1–2]]
| A post-mortem on "[[Zombie|Zombots]]" across the various comics and a bio on [[Hardhead (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Hardhead]].
| [[May 31|31/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 59
| 13
| Dark Cybertron, Part 1
| [[Dark Dawn: Dark Cybertron Chapter 1|''Dark Cybertron'' one-shot]] [[Little Victories|''More than Meets the Eye'' #22]]–[[No Exit: Dark Cybertron Chapter 6|25]] [[Winners & Losers: Dark Cybertron Chapter 3|''Robots in Disguise'' #23]]–[[Finest Hour: Dark Cybertron Chapter 5|24]]
| A bio on the [[Titan (group)|Titans]] and the making of ''Dark Cybertron'' with [[John Barber]] and James Roberts.
| [[June 14|14/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 01
| 14
| Power Play
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Transformers (issue)|#1]]–[[The Last Stand|4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Man of Iron (issue)|#9]]–[[Raiders of the Last Ark|21]]
| The alternate ending of [[The Last Stand|Marvel US #4]], unused artwork from [[The Transformers (issue)|issue #1]] by [[Frank Springer]], and an overview of how Marvel UK first approached The Transformers.
| [[June 28|28/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 26
| 15
| War and Peace
| ''[[War and Peace|Transformers: Generation 1 vol. 2]]'' #1–6 and [[Transformers Volume 2 Preview|preview]]
| Top 10 Easter eggs for "[[War and Peace]]" and scorecards listing each faction and their crew members during the arc.
| [[July 12|12/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 35
| 16
| Primacy
| [[The Transformers: Monstrosity|''Monstrosity'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Primacy|''Primacy'' #1–4]]
| An interview with [[Flint Dille]] about his work on the G1 cartoon and his involvement in the ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy|Autocracy]]'' trilogy.
| [[July 26|26/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 64
| 17
| Windblade
| [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 1 #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[Onyx Interface Part One: Signals, Calls, and Marches|#35]]–[[The Onyx Interface Conclusion: The Obliterati|38]]
| A bio for [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]], an overview of her conception, pictures of her ''[[Thrilling 30]]'' toy, and early design sketches by Hasbro.
| [[August 9|09/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 19
| 18
| Perchance to Dream
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Out to Lunch!|#240]]–[[...Perchance to Dream|260]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Still Life!|#76]]–[[Exodus!|77]]
| A Marvel UK ''Classic Heroes Competition!'' page, an overview of Furman's attempts to connect Marvel UK's black-and-white strips to the US stories and how he would eventually have to abandon doing so, an article on the "[[Two Megatrons!]]" confusion, and a bio on [[Thunderwing (G1)#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Thunderwing]].
| [[August 23|23/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 40
| 19
| Maximum Dinobots
| [[The Transformers: Maximum Dinobots|''Maximum Dinobots'' #1–5]] ''[[Spotlight: Grimlock]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Wheelie]]''
| Dinobot sketches by [[Nick Roche]] and [[Klaus Scherwinski]]'s ''Spotlight: Wheelie'' sketchbook.
| [[September 6|06/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 22
| 20
| Natural Selection
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Natural Selection, Part One|#86]]–[[Natural Selection, Part Five|90]] "[[Peace]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]])
| An overview of the [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Marvel ''Generation 2'' comic]] and several cover sketches.
| [[September 20|20/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 46
| 21
| Things Fall Apart
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Things Fall Apart, Part 1: "New Arrivals, Old Encounters"|#2]]–[[Scrapper (issue)|8]]
| Character design sketches by Figueroa, an extract from ''[[Decepticomments]]'' from [[Things Fall Apart, Part 3: "Seasons in Flight"|''The Transformers'' #4]] by [[Mike Costa]], and a bio on [[Swindle (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Swindle]].
| [[October 4|04/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 07
| 22
| The Harder They Die
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Prey!|#96]]–[[Resurrection!|104]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Afterdeath!|#24]]–[[Funeral for a Friend!|26]]
| An analysis of [[the many deaths of Optimus Prime]] in Generation 1.
| [[October 18|18/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 33
| 23
| Megatron: Origin
| [[The Transformers: Megatron Origin|''Megatron: Origin'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Blurr]]'', ''[[Omega's Conundrum|Spotlight: Orion Pax]]''
| A discussion of the production stages on ''Megatron: Origin'' by [[Eric Holmes]].
| [[November 1|01/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 14
| 24
| Space Pirates
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Wrecking Havoc|#172–173]], [[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|#180]]–[[Dry Run!|189]] "[[Altered Image!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Man in the Machine!|#51]]
| How Marvel UK incorporated ''[[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|The Big Broadcast of 2006]]'' (US issue #43) into their timeline.
| [[November 15|15/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 43
| 25
| All Hail Megatron, Part 1
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #1–8]]
| An article on creating ''All Hail Megatron'', character design sketches by Guidi, and the series pitch by [[Shane McCarthy]].
| [[November 29|29/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 52
| 26
| The Death of Optimus Prime
| [[Chaos (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1 #24, 26, 28, 30, 31]] ''[[Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime|The Death of Optimus Prime]]''
| An interview with [[James Roberts]] on how he worked his way up to become an ongoing writer, and character design sketches by [[Livio Ramondelli]].
| [[December 13|13/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 44
| 27
| All Hail Megatron, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #9–16]]
| A ''Decepticon Roll Call'' with mini-bios, and trivia about ''All Hail Megatron'' [[All Hail Megatron issue 13|#13]]–[[All Hail Megatron issue 16|16]], pointing out notable plot points in the ''Coda'' issues.
| [[December 27|27/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 20
| 28
| End of the Road
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[A Savage Circle|#78]]–[[End of the Road! (US)|80]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Starting Over!|#261]]–[[End of the Road! (UK)|289]]
| Articles about the ends of the US and UK series, including discussion of "[[Another Time & Place]]," the final letters page from #80, and script pages from #80.
| [[January 10|10/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 72
| 29
| The Dying of the Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Dying of the Light: (1) How Bright Their Frail Deeds|#50]]–[[The Dying of the Light Part 6: Do Not Go Gentle|55]]
| The bonus story "[[No Guns, No Swords, No Briefcases]] and essential background material on the [[Decepticon Justice Division|DJD]]
| [[January 24|24/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 75
| 30
| Titans Return, Part 1
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[07:00:00|#1]]–[[The Line Between Us|4]] [[The Last Autobot|''Titans Return'' one-shot]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[White Light|#56]]–[[White Heat|57]] ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Ten to Midnight|#56]]–[[Last Light (issue)|57]]
| "Creating the IDW-Verse" — a two-page article on the beginning of ''More than Meets the Eye'' and ''Robots in Disguise''.
| [[February 7|07/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 60
| 31
| Dark Cybertron, Part 2
| [[The Dead Are Not Enough: Dark Cybertron Chapter 7|''Robots in Disguise'' #25]]–[[Black Planet: Dark Cybertron Chapter 11|27]] [[Burning Bright: Dark Cybertron Chapter 8|''More than Meets the Eye'' #26]]–[[The Becoming: Dark Cybertron Chapter 10|27]] [[...And the Damage Done: Dark Cybertron Finale|''Dark Cybertron: Finale'' one-shot]]
| A blow-by-blow account of Dark Cybertron's hidden secrets
| [[February 21|21/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 71
| 32
| All Hail Optimus
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[All Hail Optimus Part 1: Once Upon a Time on Earth|#50]]–[[All Hail Optimus Part 6: No Fair Fights|55]]
| Background material on the [[Council of Worlds]]
| [[March 7|07/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 02
| 33
| New Order
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The New Order|#5]]–[[Repeat Performance!|8]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Decepticon Dam-Busters!|#29]]–[[The Wrath of Grimlock!|32]] Marvel US [[DIS-Integrated Circuits!|#9]]–[[The Next Best Thing to Being There!|10]] "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1995]])
| Insights into Marvel UK's efforts to ease the transition between the US and UK material
| [[March 21|21/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 03
| 34
| Dinobot Hunt
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Christmas Breaker!|#41]]–[[Dinobot Hunt!|50]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Brainstorm!|#11]]–[[Prime Time!|12]]
| A look at the UK [[Christmas]] story tradition
| [[April 4|04/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 23
| 35
| Destiny
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Destiny, Part One|#91]]–[[Destiny, Part Five|95]], [[Less Than Zero|#0]] "[[Destiny of the Dinobots!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| A feature on Regeneration One issue #0 and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[April 18|18/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 30
| 36
| War Within: The Dark Ages
| [[Transformers: War Within: The Dark Ages|''War Within: The Dark Ages'' #1–6]]
| Synopsis of ''[[Transformers: War Within: The Age of Wrath|War Within: the Age of Wrath]]'', including art from unfinished issues.
| [[May 2|02/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 45
| 37
| Last Stand of the Wreckers
| [[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|''Last Stand of the Wreckers'' #1–5]] ''[[Ride-Along|Spotlight: Prowl]]'' [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[...For All Mankind|#1]]
| Interview with [[Nick Roche]], pre-production sketches and story drafts
| [[May 16|16/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 49
| 38
| The Iron Age
| [[The Transformers: Ironhide|''Ironhide'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Space Opera Part 1: The Stars My Destination|#19]]–[[Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix|21 ("Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix" only)]].
| Casey Coller's ''Ironhide'' sketchbook
| [[May 30|30/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 11
| 39
| The Legacy of Unicron
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Headhunt|#133–134]] "[[What's in a Name?]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) Marvel UK [[Grudge Match!|#135]]–[[Ladies' Night (issue)|138]], [[The Legacy of Unicron!|#146–151]] "[[Ark Duty]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Pretender to the Throne!|#40]]–[[Totaled!|41]]
| A feature on the origins of the origin of the Transformers
| [[June 13|13/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 17
| 40
| Matrix Quest
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Bird of Prey!|#62]]–[[All Fall Down|66]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Aspects of Evil!|#223]]–[[A Savage Place!|239]] "[[The Chain Gang!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| Features on the stories behind "Matrix Quest" and, Marvel UK's crossover "[[Deathbringer (Marvel)|Deathbringer]]" saga
| [[June 27|27/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 73
| 41
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 1
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[The Golden Boys|#0]]–[[Headmasters (issue)|7]]
| A creator commentary on issue #0 and an exclusive interview with [[Tom Scioli]]
| [[July 11|11/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 76
| 42
| Titans Return, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]] [[Ping|#5]]–[[If I Know You|11]]
| Article on ''[[Revolution]]''
| [[July 25|25/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 62
| 43
| Earthfall
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Earthfall Part 1: Hello Cruel World|#28]]–[[The Crucible|34]]
| The lowdown on the (new) human cast and rare promotional posters for the [[Dawn of the Autobots]] event
| [[August 8|08/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 04
| 44
| Second Generation
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Shooting Star!|#13]]–[[Plight of the Bumblebee!|16]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Robot Buster!|#59]]–[[Second Generation!|65]] "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]])
| The story behind Marvel UK's Special Teams promotion
| [[August 22|22/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 32
| 45
| Infiltration
| [[The Transformers: Infiltration|''Infiltration'' #0–6]]
| An article on "Creating the IDW-Verse: From the Ground Up", "The Pitch" - Furman's original pitch to IDW for Infiltration, and some sketches by [[E. J. Su]].
| [[September 5|05/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 24
| 46
| The War to End All Wars
| ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]]'' [[The War to End All Wars, Part 1|#96]]–[[The War to End All Wars, Part 5|100]]
| the prose story "[[King of Shadows]]" and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[September 19|19/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 28
| 47
| Worlds Collide Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Worlds Collide|#14]]–[[The_End|18]] [[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye#Issue .238|Dreamwave's ''More than Meets the Eye'' #8]]
| A brief overview of Dreamwave's [[Transformers: Energon (comic)|Energon comic]] and a bonus glossary section dedicated entirely to background material from the Dreamwave G1-verse
| [[October 3|03/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 42
| 48
| Revelation
| ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]: [[Spotlight: Arcee|Arcee]], [[Spotlight: Cyclonus|Cyclonus]], [[Spotlight: Hardhead|Hardhead]], [[Spotlight: Doubledealer|Doubledealer]], [[Spotlight: Sideswipe|Sideswipe]], [[Spotlight: Jazz|Jazz]], [[Spotlight: Metroplex|Metroplex]]''
| "-Ations" retrospective, sketchbook art from Alex Milne and E. J. Su reprinted from individual ''Spotlights''
| [[October 17|17/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 65
| 49
| Combiner Wars
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[First Contact (IDW)|#39]]–[[Now and On Earth|42]] [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2 #1–4]]
| An article on the [[Prime Wars Trilogy]]
| [[October 31|31/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 79
| 50
| Primeless
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Life of Sideswipe|#9]]–[[Primeless, Part 2|12]] ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light|Lost Light]]'' [[Chasing the Infinite|#9]]–[[The Plotters' Club (Part 3): Journey's End|12]]
| A one-page editorial by Simon Furman that mentions the IDW universe's impending end
| [[November 14|14/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 12
| 51
| Cosmic Carnival
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Enemy Action!|#152–153]], [[Salvage!|#160–161]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[People Power!|#42]], [[The Cosmic Carnival|44]]–[[Ca$h and Car-nage!|46]] Marvel UK [[Stargazing|#145]]
| A behind-the-scenes look at the UK-only return of Megatron
| [[November 28|28/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 25
| 52
| Prime Directive
| [[Prime Directive|''Tranformers: Generation 1'' vol. 1 #1–6]] (plus [[Prime Directive Preview|Preview]])
| A two-page article on 'the in-between years' covering the time when no-one had the ''Transformers'' licence for comics.
| [[December 12|12/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 53
| 53
| Liars, A to D
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Liars, A to D Part 1: How to Say Goodbye and Mean It|#1]]–[[Interiors|6]], ''[[The Reluctant Specialist|Spotlight: Trailcutter]]'' and ''[[The Waiting Game|Spotlight: Hoist]]''
| An all-new interview with James Roberts, rare archive material from the dawn of MTMTE, Alex Milne's sketchbook.
| [[December 26|26/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 55
| 54
| Shadowplay
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Rules of Disengagement (issue)|#7]]–[[More than Meets the Eye issue 13|13]], plus the [[Primus: You, Me, and Other Revelations|2012 Annual]]
| The second of a new three-part interview with Roberts, early pages of scripts, and design sketches from Alex Milne.
| [[January 9|09/01]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 13
| 55
| City of Fear
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[City of Fear!|#164]]–[[Deadly Games!|171]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Club Con!|#47]]–[[Dark Star|50]] "[[Dreadwing Down!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]]) "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1985]])
| A behind-the scenes look at a sea change moment for the US comic (Furman's takeover as head writer) and a [[Bob Budiansky]] sketchbook.
| [[January 23|23/01]]/2019
|-
| 41
| 56
| Drift
| [[The Transformers: Drift|''The Transformers: Drift'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlight:]] ''[[Spotlight: Drift|Drift]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Blaster]]''
| An article on creating Drift and some design sketches by [[Guido Guidi]].
| [[February 6|06/02]]/2019
|-
| 74
| 57
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[Pax Megatronus|#8]]–[[The War Never Ends|13]]
| No extras, but still has the cover art and intro from Furman present on all issues.
| [[February 20|20/02]]/2019
|-
| 47
| 58
| International Incident
| [[The Transformers: Bumblebee|''The Transformers: Bumblebee'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[International Incident Part 1: "The Land Ironclads"|#9]]–[[International Incident Part 4: "All My Sins Remembered"|12]]
| An interview with [[Zander Cannon]] and breakdowns for pages 1–4 of each issue of the ''Bumblebee'' mini-series.
| [[March 6|06/03]]/2019
|-
| 05
| 59
| The Smelting Pool
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Smelting Pool!|#17]]–[[Showdown!|20]] "[[Victory!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[In the National Interest|#74–77]]
|Background material on the [[Cybertron (planet)|planet Cybertron]] with map.
| [[March 20|20/03]]/2019
|-
| 54
| 60
| A Better Tomorrow
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[The Autonomy Lesson (issue)|#1]]–[[Interference Patterns|7]]
| A new interview with [[John Barber]]
| [[April 3|03/04]]/2019
|-
| 48
| 61
| Revenge of the Decepticons
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Heart Like a Wheel|#13]]–[[Revenge of the Decepticons Part 5: Enemy Mine|18]] ''[[Spotlight: Megatron]]''
| A ''Spotlight: Megatron'' sketchbook
| [[April 17|17/04]]/2019
|-
| 15
| 62
| Time Wars
| "[[All in the Minds!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Time Wars|#199–205]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Guess Who the Mecannibals Are Having for Dinner?|#52]]–[[The Interplanetary Wrestling Championship!|55]]
| A behind-the-scenes look at Galvatron's storyline
| [[May 1|01/05]]/2019
|-
| 58
| 63
| Shockpoint
|[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]] #[[Plan for Everything|15]]–[[Soundwaves (issue)|22]]
| A 2-page history of IDW Shockwave's history-setting plans.
| [[May 15|15/05]]/2019
|-
| 80
| 64
| Requiem of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[Your First Mistake|#12]] [[The Chosen One|''Till Are Are One'' Annual]] [[Ghost Stories|2017 ''Transformers'' Annual]] ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers|Requiem of the Wreckers]]''
| Wreckers sketchbook and notebook material from [[Nick Roche]].
| [[May 29|29/05]]/2019
|-
| 63
| 65
| Elegant Chaos
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Custom-Made Now - An Elegant Chaos Prologue|#35]]–[[The Frail Gaze|42]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[June 12|12/06]]/2019
|-
| 09
| 66
| Toy Soldiers
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Ancient Relics!|#125 and ''Action Force'' #24–27]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Crater Critters|#29]]–[[Used Autobots|32]], [[Child%27s_Play_(issue)|#35]]–[[Toy Soldiers!|37]]
| A one-page behind-the-scenes feature on "[[Man of Iron (issue)|Man of Iron]]" and how it got reprinted in the US comic.
| [[June 26|26/06]]/2019
|-
| 78
| 67
| New Cybertron
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[New Cybertron Part 1: To Walk Among the Chosen|#1]]–[[What It's Really Like|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Kei Zama]]
| [[July 10|10/07]]/2019
|-
| 67
| 68
| Conquerors
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[South of Heaven|#43]]–[[Conquerors Part 4: Perihelion|49]] ''[[An Uneventful Night|Combiner Hunters]]'' one-shot
| Development art by [[Andrew Griffith]]
| [[July 24|24/07]]/2019
|-
| 38
| 69
| Devastation
| ''[[The Transformers: Devastation]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]'' for [[Spotlight: Kup|Kup]], [[Spotlight: Ramjet|Ramjet]] and [[Spotlight: Cliffjumper|Cliffjumper]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 7|07/08]]/2019
|-
| 57
| 70
| Remain in Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Remembrance Day|#14]]–[[Remain in Light 5 of 5: This Calamitous Life|21]] Prose stories "[[Signal to Noise]]" and "[[The Sound of Breaking Glass]]"
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 21|21/08]]/2019
|-
| 77
| 71
| Dissolution
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Dissolution Part 1: Some Other Cybertron|#1]]–[[An Axe to Break the Ice|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Jack Lawrence]]
| [[September 4|04/09]]/2019
|-
| 69
| 72
| Sins of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Sins of the Wreckers|Sins of the Wreckers]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers Holiday Special]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[September 18|18/09]]/2019
|-
| 56
| 73
| City On Fire
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Dinobot Hunt (IDW)|#8]]–[[Before the Dawn|14]] [[Primus: All Good Things|2012 Annual]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[October 2|02/10]]/2019
|-
| 34
| 74
| Autocracy
| ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy]]'' miniseries ''[[The Hunting Party (IDW)|Spotlight: Thundercracker]]''
| A one-page article on ''Autocracy'', including an interview with co-writer [[Chris Metzen]].
| [[October 16|16/10]]/2019
|-
| 70
| 75
| Punishment
| ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Redemption]]'' one-shot ''[[The Transformers: Salvation]]'' one-shot
| An article about the Motion Book Tool app used for the digital version of ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'', a "Brief History of the (IDW) Dinobots", and a [[Livio Ramondelli]] sketchbook.
| [[October 30|30/10]]/2019
|-
| 27
| 76
| Worlds Collide Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_8|#8]]–[[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_13|13]] [[More_than_Meets_the_Eye:_Transformers:_Armada|''More than Meets the Eye: Armada'' ]] (select material)
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 13|13/11]]/2019
|-
| 68
| 77
| Empire of Stone
| ''[[The Transformers: Drift - Empire of Stone|Drift - Empire of Stone]]'' miniseries [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2]] issues 5–7
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 27|27/11]]/2019
|-
| 51
| 78
| Chaos Theory
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Police Action: Prologue|#21 ("Police Action: Prologue" only)]], [[Chaos Theory Part 1|#22–23]], [[Police Action: Part 1|25]], [[Police Action Part 2: Only Forward|27]], [[Police Action Part 3: A Second Chance at Eden|29]] [[The Question|Spotlight: Bumblebee]]
| A one-page article exploring the origins of the "[[Chaos (IDW)|Chaos]]" arc and beyond.
| [[December 11|11/12]]/2019
|-
| 66
| 79
| Speak, Memory
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The One Where They Go to Earth|#43]]–[[Speak, Memory! (Part 2)|49]]
| A one-page article about the [[Scavenger (group)|Scavengers]].
| [[December 25|25/12]]/2019
|-
| 61
| 80
| World, Shut Your Mouth
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[World, Shut Your Mouth Part 1: Towards Peace|#28]]–[[Births, Deaths, and Interventions|34]]
| A page of "Season 2" character posters.
| [[January 8|08/01]]/[[2020]]
|-
| 84
| 81
| The Falling: Part 1
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Dead Come Home, Part 1 (of 2)|#13]]–[[The Falling, Chapter 3: The Ground|17]] ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[Starscream: The Movie (comic)|Annual 2018]]
| A one-page article about the Primes.
| [[January 22|22/01]]/2020
|-
| 90
| 82
| Generation 2: Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[Ghosts|#0]]–[[The Gathering Darkness|6]]
| An article about [[Fleetway]]'s [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Fleetway)|UK ''Generation 2'' comic]], including [small-scale scans of] "[[War Without End (issue)|War Without End]]", their first UK-original ''G2'' strip.
| [[February 5|05/02]]/2020
|-
| 81
| 83
| Revolution
| ''[[Revolution]]'' [[Secret Raiders: A Revolution Prelude|#0]]–[[Valley Forge|5]] ''[[Thundercracker & Buster Save the World|The Transformers]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Informed|Till All Are One]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Nothing Will Ever Be the Same Again!|More than Meets the Eye]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro.
| [[February 19|19/02]]/2020
|-
| 89
| 84
| Realignments
| ''[[G.I. Joe and the Transformers (comic)|G.I. Joe and the Transformers]]'' [[Blood on the Tracks|#1]]–[[...All Fall Down!|4]] [[G.I. Joe (comic)|Marvel's ''G.I. Joe'']] [[Unfoldings!|#138]]–[[Final Transformations|142]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[March 4|04/03]]/2020
|-
| 82
| 85
| Revolutionaries
| ''[[Revolutionaries]]'' [[Crisis Intervention|#1]]–[[Ghost in the Machine (IDW)|8]]
| A two-page timeline of major IDW continuity events from issue #1, and the character profiles also from issue #1.
| [[March 18|18/03]]/2020
|-
| 92
| 86
| Transformers: The Movie
| [[Transformers: The Movie (Marvel comic)|Marvel's adaption]] of [[The Transformers: The Movie|the 1986 animated movie]] [[Transformers: The Animated Movie|IDW's adaption]] of that same movie
| A one-page article about the movie-verse in comics.
| [[April 1|01/04]]/2020
|-
| 83
| 87
| First Strike
| ''[[First Strike]]'' [[First Strike issue 0|#0]]–[[First Strike issue 6|6]] [[Unification Day: Dusk|First Strike: Transformers]] one-shot [[Unification Day: Dawn|First Strike: Optimus Prime]] one-shot
| A one-page "Prelude to...Unicron!" article, preceding the reprint of "[[First Strike issue 6#Coda: "The Signal"|The Signal]]".
| [[April 22|22/04]]/2020
|-
| 95
| 88
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 1
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers'' #1–6]]
| A one-page article about Devil's Due, a two-page article about creating the "Devil's Due-verse" and three pages of [[Mike S. Miller]]'s sketchbook art.
| [[May 13|13/05]]/2020
|-
| 85
| 89
| The Falling, Part 2
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Falling, Interlude: The First Who Was Named|#18]]–[[A Sunrise Dark|24]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[June 3|03/06]]/2020
|-
| 93
| 90
| Beast Wars: The Gathering
| [[Transformers, Beast Wars: The Gathering|''Beast Wars: The Gathering'' #1–4]]
and material from [[Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook]]
| An introduction by [[Ben Yee]], a 2-page "Unleash the Beast Wars" feature detailing the origins of the show and toyline, a 3-page "Creating the BW-Verse" interview with [[Bob Forward]], a 2-page "The (G1) roots of the Beast Wars" feature detailing the G1 elements in the show, 4 pages of [[Don Figueroa]]'s design sketches, and a reprint of the "[[Optimus Primal vs Megatron!]]" toy pack-in comic.
| [[June 17|17/06]]/2020
|-
| 86
| 91
| The Everlasting Voices
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Sardines|#13]]–[[The Everlasting Voices (3): You Are Here|18]]
| The first half of ''[[Transformers: Historia]]'' (up to ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'', including the [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]] profile, which was itself copied from the ''[[Hasbro Heroes Sourcebook]]''.
| [[July 1|01/07]]/2020
|-
| 96
| 92
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 2
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II'' #1–4]] and [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War'' #1-2]]
|
| [[July 15|15/07]]/2020
|-
| 87
| 93
| Crucible
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Crucible (Part 1): A Dance Before Dying|#19]]–[[How To Say Goodbye And Mean It: Part 2|25]] (assumed)
|
| [[July 29|29/07]]/2020
|-
| 91
| 94
| Generation 2, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[New Dawn|#7]]–[[A Rage in Heaven!|12]] (assumed)
|
| [[August 12|12/08]]/2020
|-
| 88
| 95
| Unicron
| ''[[Transformers: Unicron]]'' [[Our Darkest|#0]]–[[Ceremony|6]] (assumed) ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[Post|#25]]
|
| [[August 26|26/08]]/2020
|-
| 94
| 96
| Beast Wars: The Ascending
| [[Transformers: Beast Wars: The Ascending|''Beast Wars: The Ascending'' #1–4]] (assumed)
|
| [[September 9|09/09]]/2020
|-
| 97
| 97
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 3
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War'' #3–5]] and [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: Black Horizon|''G.I. Joe vs, the Transformers: Black Horizon'' #1-2]]
|
| [[September 23|23/09]]/2020
|-
| 98
| 98
| The World In Your Eyes
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The World In Your Eyes Part One|#1]]–[[Orion Pax: Free Fall|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[October 7|07/10]]/2020
|-
| 99
| 99
| The Cracks Beneath Your Feet
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The Cracks Beneath Your Feet Part One|#7]]–[[Nautica: Home|12]] (assumed)
|
| [[October 21|21/10]]/2020
|-
| 100
| 100
| Constructicons Rising
| ''[[Transformers: Galaxies]]'' [[Constructicons Rising, Part 1|#1]]–[[Wannabee, Part 2|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[November 4|04/11]]/2020
|}

==Curation==
Although this collection was curated by Simon Furman, the man directly responsible for many of the stories it contains, many of the decisions it makes seem to be far from ideal.

Presumably as a result of these being the master copies in Hasbro's possession, the reprints of Marvel US material are reproduced from IDW's ''[[The Transformers Classics]]'' 'remasters', complete with newly-introduced typos, haphazard attempts to 'fix' errors, washed-out linework, and less authentic coloring than John-Paul Bove's brand new efforts! In a similar vein, cover galleries include the covers for both the US and UK stories, but ''not'' the UK-exclusive covers for US stories. This focus on presenting the 'unmodified' versions of US comics means that many of the minor edits made to those stories for their original UK printings (to better jive with Furman's expanded continuity) are absent.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-9#post-14167234 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "In order to smooth over the continuity cracks between the UK and US stories, the US books were usually edited (US#16-24 were especially affected) for their UK printing. But rather than the UK edits of the American stories, we get the familiar US versions. <nowiki>[...]</nowiki> Oh, and on page 214, there's a factual error as well, when it states that Transformers UK sold 200,000 copies per week. That's actually completely false. It actually sold 100,000 copies per week at its peak. That said, each individual comic sold would tend to be read by a number of people, as kids lent or gave their comics to siblings or school friends. It was calculated that, on average, each comic sold would be read by two-point-five people. Marvel (and other comic publishers such as Fleetway or IPC) would therefore take the ''actual'' circulation figures and apply this 2.5 multiplier to give a total readership that did exceed two hundred thousand on occasion. So whilst the ''readership'' was arguably 250K-plus, the actual ''number of copies'' sold was nowhere near that figure.</ref>

The actual ordering of this material is also far from straightforward, for various reasons:
*The two Furman-penned comics from [[Transformers Annual 1985|the 1995 annual]] don't have a particular place in the continuity: "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" is a standalone flashback that isn't referenced until UK #44, while "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" is a non-canonical present-day story written to promote toys that weren't appearing in the comic at the time. Presumably for reasons of space, they're included as backmatter in volumes 2 and 13; the latter consists mostly of stories released three years later!
*Volume 3 presents UK #41-50 before US #11-12, when they should be the other way around. Apparently this was a deliberate decision to place focus on the UK story the volume was centred around!<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/315915/thread Facebook post quoted by Andy Turnbull on the Transmasters UK forums]: "While we make every effort to maintain the original flow and continuity of the Marvel UK/US TRANSFORMERS stories, the self-contained identity and integrity of each individual volume is of paramount importance, especially as the collections aren’t released in chronological order. So, in a heavily UK-centric volume titled Dinobot Hunt, we took the decision to lead with the main/bulk of 'Dinobot Hunt' (and preceding issues) itself. Both UK and US strips are prefaced with a dedicated Story So Far to ease readers into the respective narratives, so they can be enjoyed together or in and of themselves. Naturally, we regret any inherent ‘spoilers’, but our policy is to create coherent and self-supportive volumes that anyone, casual reader or long-time fan, can pick up and enjoy."</ref>
*The pack-in comic "[[The Special Teams Have Arrived]]" is absent—but of course, it was completely retold in UK #63-65, included here in volume 4.
*The two comic stories from [[Transformers Annual 1986|the 1986 annual]] aren't directly connected to specific issues; "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" doesn't really fit into continuity at all, but certainly takes place after UK #65—which is where the partwork puts it—while "[[Victory!]]" (which explains what happened to the Dinobots between UK #50 and #65) is placed before UK #74-77, another Dinobot-centric story which touches on its events.
*"[[The Gift]]", UK #93's seasonal story by [[James Hill]], is omitted; it should be placed in volume 6 between US #22 and US #23.
*Volume 8 reshuffles things slightly relative to publication order; US #27 was originally published before UK #113-120, but is moved afterwards. As the stories aren't connected, this doesn't really affect anything.
*The stories from [[Transformers Annual 1987|the 1987 annual]] are scattered. "[[Vicious Circle!]]" is placed in volume 8 alongside UK #113-120, collectively forming the first "post-movie" storyline. "What's In a Name?" is placed in volume 11 directly before UK #135-136, which developed its premise further. "[[Ark Duty]]" is also thrown into volume 11, after UK #146-151... despite chronologically taking place some time before that story.
*In a move that actually ''improves'' readability, the ''[[Action Force (comic)|Action Force]]'' crossover "[[Ancient Relics!]]" (which originally interrupted the unrelated two-part story told across US #29-30) is moved before #29.
*[[Worlds Apart!|UK #130-131]] was written as an introduction to the Headmaster concept to UK audiences; it's recontextualised here as a flashback, letting the ''[[The Transformers: Headmasters| Headmasters]]'' miniseries lead directly into [[Trial by Fire!|US #38]]. Keeping UK-original strips in publication order however then causes trouble with [[Ladies' Night (issue)|UK #137-138]], which set up the Combaticons' appearance in... [[Used Autobots|US #32]], and [[Enemy Action!|UK #152-153]], which takes place before the launch of [[Club Con]] in [[The Desert Island of Space!|US #39]].
*[[Stargazing|UK #145]], a fairly standalone Christmas story, is thrown in at the end of volume 12.
*When Furman took over the US comic, the UK strips (having switched to black-and-white) generally stopped tying directly into the US material. Exceptions included [[Race with the Devil|UK #215-218]] setting up [[Back from the Dead|US #56]], Thunderwing's rise to power across [[The Big Shutdown!|UK #230-231]] and [[Rage!|#241]]-[[Assault on the Ark!|242]] paying off in [[Yesterday's Heroes!|US #60]], [[Out to Lunch!|UK #240]] following on from [[Skin Deep|US #59]], [[Mind Games|UK #243]]-[[Two Megatrons!|244]] further explaining Megatron's appearance in US #56-59, [[Whose Lifeforce Is It Anyway?|UK #249]] being nodded to in [[Bird of Prey!|US #62]], and the events of [[Deathbringer (issue)|UK #235-236]] being directly referenced in [[Dark Creation|US #65]]. This collection includes these comics in clumps during breaks in the action, ignoring most of this connective tissue.
*Starting with [[...Perchance to Dream|UK #255]] (as noted on the [[Earthforce]] page), the UK material effectively diverged into an entire alternate timeline; most of these stories are placed together at the end of volume 20.

It's apparent that when the partwork was planned out, Hatchette intended to be the first company to reprint the latter-day [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] material such as [[Transformers: Generation 1 (Dreamwave)|the Sunstorm arc]] and ''[[Transformers: Micromasters| Micromasters]]'',<ref>[https://simonfurman.wordpress.com/2017/01/ Simon Furman on WordPress]: "all the Dreamwave G1 material that saw print in single-issue form will be collected, including the rare Summer Special story, Welcome to the Jungle, and their ongoing G1 series"</ref> in volumes 27 and 28—but those volumes wound up containing issues from Dreamwave's ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)| Armada]]'' comic, which merely guest-starred G1 characters and seem very out of place in a "Definitive ''G1'' Collection". Presumably, this late change occurred for the same reason those stories have never been reprinted in the first place—nobody's sure whether the creative teams were actually ''paid'' for their work.

The ordering of IDW's comics can only be described as impenetrable to a new reader. As ''Infiltration'' was the starting point for that continuity, it is presented as the first volume, but in a stab towards chronological ordering the next volumes are devoted to prequels such as ''[[Megatron: Origin]]'' and ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy| Autocracy]]'', which were released well after the fact and don't really mesh well here. Even Furman's own work isn't safe: ''[[The Transformers: Maximum Dinobots| Maximum Dinobots]]'' is placed before ''[[Revelation (IDW)]]'', and the other ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight| Spotlight]]'' issues are thrown in haphazardly wherever space allows. How much of the material following his run Furman has actually read, only he can say.

Presumably as an editorial decision, the partwork omits a large quantity of prose material:
*The prose stories from Marvel UK's annuals are omitted, although it bears mentioning that most of them were written by authors other than Furman and are tricky to reconcile with the continuity proper anyway. Furman's stories are more conspicuous by their absence: "[[The Magnificent Six!]]" from the 1991 annual was part of the Earthforce storyline, and the 1992 annual's "[[Another Time & Place]]" was effectively the original coda to his Marvel run. UK #302's "[[Dreadwind's Xmas!]]" is absent too, notable for focusing on Dreadwind's time [[Letters page (Marvel UK)|answering letters]] for Marvel UK.
*The various prose stories, profiles and comics first printed with the collected editions of ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers| Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'' are absent.
*Tom Scioli's four-page "[[Black Cybertron]]" prose story from ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe issue 10|#10]] is omitted, along with the creators' commentaries which graced the other issues in the series.

==Coloring==
Colorist John-Paul Bove, known for his work on ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One| Regeneration One]]'', was hired by Hatchette to give color to black-and-white UK-original stories. The first of these was "[[Raiders of the Last Ark]]", included in volume 1. Like many of the earliest UK strips, only some of its instalments were printed in color, but this was the only story not to be later colourised in a reprint at the time. For this collection, Bove colored the entire comic in a style as close to the original marker-pens as possible, with the only edits being to correct an error and to put [[Guardian (Marvel)|Guardian]]'s colors in line with the character's later appearances.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/282848/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "Raiders has been coloured to match as closely as possible the original. As far as I can tell the original was coloured in marker pen! This involved some exceptionally detailed hi res scans and taking the texture and colour choices from the original (including a Megs with a lot of gold!). There were two changes made to the originals, one was a colouring error pointed out by Mike Collins himself that affected the linework (see if you can spot it) that I corrected and the other was that the Guardian colours were changed to match all subsequent appearances. When he is taken down he is left a solid colour in that Yomtovy way of doing things."</ref>

For the black-and-white strips printed following the UK comic's format change in 1989, Bove colored the stories depending on whether their plots tied into the UK or the US continuity. He cites "[[Race with the Devil]]" (the first black-and-white story of this kind) and "[[Fallen Star!]]" as examples of US-relevant stories. Meanwhile stories like "[[Survivors]]" emulated the richer colour combinations employed by the UK teams.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/282848/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "As stated in the colour commentary in vol 3, the style of colouring for the strips depends entirely on the continuity it follows regardless of which country it originated in. So Race with the Devil and Fallen Star follow US continuity despite being a UK originated strip. So the colour ref will follow what was in the Underbase Saga and the stories containing the classic Pretenders (so background Soundwave is Magenta as Ed said). At a certain point along the way the UK was instructed to follow the US way of colouring, so the techniques becomes the same though the guys and gals in the UK were geniuses in making combinations to generate richer pallets. That's why Survivors etc has been done in a richer, denser style."</ref> "[[Aspects of Evil!]]" and the [[Earthforce]] stories were colored to look like they could've been rendered with inks and airbrushes.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/282848/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "For Aspects of Evil (coming soon!) the colouring style is not bound by continuity. I felt doing something like Regen would be too far removed from the time, but instead I have coloured it in a way that could have been rendered with inks and airbrush but that still feels modern without any computer trickery. It's a style based a little on contrast and is hopefully both bold and subtle."</ref>

In some cases, Bove made choices with regards to color schemes based on in-universe reasoning, most notably with [[Xaaron]] and [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] in volume 19.<ref>[https://tmukhub.proboards.com/post/299016/thread John-Paul Bove on the Transmasters UK forums]: "With Xaaron I was pretty sure that his appearance here was chronologically the first we'd seen him so I decided to make him his UK colours and leave his all yellow look something he got shortly after. This was partly because his all yellow look was awful and there was enough wiggle room to do it. Soundwave on the other hand had appeared magenta before the events of Starscream's Pretender process and after so to change him to blue for this moment between other moments requires a bigger ask. There is a whole complicated reasoning that had to apply to Thunderwing precisely because he appears in different colours in between coloured appearances. I reasoned that he was burned then jumped into the sea which lead to one colour change, got repaired and recoloured when he got back to the ship and then got given a final upgrade when he got made leader. I spent forever working out a logic that would make sense of all the colour schemes he had that I had to jump between. There was definitely method to the madness and many, many hours were spent making it as consistent, justified and sympathetic as possible."</ref>

==Notes==
* The free gifts shipped to subscribers with the first five deliveries (each consisting of two isses - except the first, which included a third issue free) were:
** Autobot/Decepticon [[insignia]] keyrings!
** A wallet!
** A tin-plate version of the cover to "[[Dark Star]]", featuring a cosmically-empowered [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]]!
** A mug!
** A pair of metal Autobot/Decepticon insignia bookends!<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20170112033736/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* Before the partwork launched, the second free gift was advertised as an [[Insignia|Autobrand]] belt buckle.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20160914212214/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* The first issue collected "[[Target: 2006]]", and was coincidentally out at newsagents thirty years after the story originally ran.<ref>[http://thesolarpool.weebly.com/transformers-uk227.html Solar Pool]: "The Target: 2006 book is already out... if it doesn’t [finish], Target: 2006 was back on at least some newsagents shelves towards the end of its 30th anniversary week. How cool is that?"</ref>
* The printings of Marvel material aren't really identical to those released by IDW—for instance, issue 1 (volume 6 - confused yet?) includes various Marvel trademarks (such as the superheroes around the edge of the cover to "Heavy Traffic" and the kid wearing a Spider-Man t-shirt in "Decepticon Graffiti") which were painted out of IDW's reprints due to rights issues.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-10#post-14168736 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "The weird thing is, though, these '''aren't''' the IDW versions. The cover to Heavy Traffic has all the Marvel characters around the edge, and the little kid in Decepticon Graffiti is wearing his Spider-Man t-shirt. This stuff was painted out of the IDW trades due to rights issues with Marvel."</ref>

===Errors===
* When the website launched, it accidentally credited [[Andrew Wildman|Andrew ''Wlid''man]].
* Copies of the first issue provided to general retail and initial subscribers had an error on the spine, with the black volume number box at the top being the wrong size.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14249131 ultra badness on the TFW2005 forums]: "I just got an email from Hachette to say they had misprinted the spine art on issue 1. And hey will send a replacement. Hurrah! Im going to have 3 issues!"</ref> Subscribers received free corrected copies, while those who bought theirs at newsagents had to wait for replacements which were included with issue 7.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14256091 Magnus' Mate on TFW2005]: "Incidentally, the 'corrected' #1 will be available to non-subscribers as well, included free with issue #7!"</ref> Hachette were seen giving away error-stricken copies for free at a signing event at a London comic shop.<ref>[http://forums.millarworld.tv/t/the-trades-thread-hardcovers-graphic-novels-and-more/4923/2359 Millarworld forums (dead link)]</ref> This error shouldn't be confused with the change in spine art for the first four issues made between the limited trial run and the mass release,<ref>[http://www.facebook.com/TransformersG1Collection/posts/1533415153338562?comment_id=1533436356669775&reply_comment_id=1533593929987351 Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection on Facebook]</ref> which means that anyone who subscribed to the series from its trial will end up with ''three'' different copies of issue 1.
* The poster included with issue 1 includes a bio for [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]]... which uses an image of [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]].<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13983869 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "Also: the poster that comes with Volume 1 (Target: 2006) shows some small character bios but goofs up the "Jazz" bio by using a picture of Prowl."</ref>
* The trial versions of issues 1 and 2 had the inside cover art swapped: the "Target: 2006" book had artwork for ''Stormbringer'', and vice versa.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13989359 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "On anybody else's copies, is the inside cover art wrong? I've got Stormbringer art inside the Target:2006 book, and Target:2006 art inside the Stormbringer book."</ref>
* A feature in issue 1 states that the Marvel UK comic sold 200,000 copies per week, when really it only sold 100,000 per week ''at its peak''. This error presumably stems from the fact that Marvel (and other publishers at the time) multiplied their circulation figures by 2.5 to calculate their readership, as they estimated that many issues would be shared between friends and siblings.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>
* Hatchette's own masterings of the comics introduce yet more errors. In issue 1, for example, an instance of '[[Skids (G1)|]]' in dialogue is misspelled as 'Skips'.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14277882 Bass X0 on the TFW2005 forums]: "In Decepticon Graffiti, Skids is called Skips on the second page."</ref> This error was not present in IDW's original reprints.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-13#post-14316444 Magnus' Mate on the TFW2005 forums]: "Except the IDW "Transformers Classics" volume 2 with issue #23 in doesn't have this same problem - Skids is still Skids, not Skips! I know there are other problems with them, but this one is on Hachette."</ref>
* The bio for John Paul Bove included in issue 3 (volume 16) was apparently written by himself in the first person, then edited into the third person—one of the sentences written in first person remains!<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-8#post-14101771 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "There is also a half page bio on JP, which was obviously written by himself in the first person, and then edited to be the third person- but they missed one of the first person senetnces and it is still in there!"</ref>
* Some copies of volume 22 had a number erroneously printed on one of the pages.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-20#post-15179844 rodster6 on the TFW2005 forums]: "Got volume 7 today (which I think is issue 22) and there is a weird number printed randomly on one page that shouldn't be there."</ref>
* The first print run for volume 35 had an error where the last two pages of ''Monstrosity'' #11 were swapped with two from "War and Peace" #3.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-18#post-14880721 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "The last two pages of Monstrosity #11 have been swapped with the ones from W&P #3"</ref>
* Many volumes include pages which are stuck together, though this is easy enough for the reader to fix.
* Though some readers may try to convince you otherwise, [[Mister Johnson]] is not an error.

==Covers==
<center><gallery caption="Marvel (US & UK)" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v1.jpg|Vol 1: Power Play
DefinitiveG1Collection v2.jpg|Vol 2: New Order
DefinitiveG1Collection v3.jpg|Vol 3: Dinobot Hunt
DefinitiveG1Collection v4.jpg|Vol 4: Second Generation
DefinitiveG1Collection v5.jpg|Vol 5: The Smelting Pool
DefinitiveG1Collection v6.jpg|Vol 6: Target: 2006
DefinitiveG1Collection v7.jpg|Vol 7: The Harder They Die
DefinitiveG1Collection v8.jpg|Vol 8: Wanted: Galvatron - Dead or Alive
DefinitiveG1Collection v9.jpg|Vol 9: Toy Soldiers
DefinitiveG1Collection v10.jpg|Vol 10: Trial by Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v11.jpg|Vol 11: The Legacy of Unicron
DefinitiveG1Collection v12.jpg|Vol 12: Cosmic Carnival
DefinitiveG1Collection v13.jpg|Vol 13: City of Fear
DefinitiveG1Collection v14.jpg|Vol 14: Space Pirates
DefinitiveG1Collection v15.jpg|Vol 15: Time Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v16.jpg|Vol 16: The Primal Scream
DefinitiveG1Collection v17.jpg|Vol 17: Matrix Quest
DefinitiveG1Collection v18.jpg|Vol 18: Edge of Extinction
DefinitiveG1Collection v19.jpg|Vol 19: Perchance to Dream
DefinitiveG1Collection v20.jpg|Vol 20: End of the Road
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Marvel's Generation 2" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v89.jpg|Vol 89: Realignments
DefinitiveG1Collection v90.jpg|Vol 90: Generation 2 Part 1

</gallery>
<gallery caption="IDW's Regeneration One" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v21.jpg|Vol 21: Regeneration One
DefinitiveG1Collection v22.jpg|Vol 22: Natural Selection
DefinitiveG1Collection v23.jpg|Vol 23: Destiny
DefinitiveG1Collection v24.jpg|Vol 24: The War to End All Wars
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Dreamwave Productions" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v25.jpg|Vol 25: Prime Directive
DefinitiveG1Collection v26.jpg|Vol 26: War and Peace
DefinitiveG1Collection v27.jpg|Vol 27: Worlds Collide Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v28.jpg|Vol 28: Worlds Collide Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v29.jpg|Vol 29: The War Within
DefinitiveG1Collection v30.jpg|Vol 30: War Within: The Dark Ages
DefinitiveG1Collection v31.jpg|Vol 31: The Iron Fist
</gallery>

<gallery caption="2005 IDW continuity" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v32.jpg|Vol 32: Infiltration
DefinitiveG1Collection v33.jpg|Vol 33: Megatron Origin
DefinitiveG1Collection v34.jpg|Vol 34: Autocracy
DefinitiveG1Collection v35.jpg|Vol 35: Primacy
DefinitiveG1Collection v36.jpg|Vol 36: Stormbringer
DefinitiveG1Collection v37.jpg|Vol 37: Escalation
DefinitiveG1Collection v38.jpg|Vol 38: Devastation
DefinitiveG1Collection v39.jpg|Vol 39: Hearts of Steel
DefinitiveG1Collection v40.jpg|Vol 40: Maximum Dinobots
DefinitiveG1Collection v41.jpg|Vol 41: Drift
DefinitiveG1Collection v42.jpg|Vol 42: Revelation
DefinitiveG1Collection v43.jpg|Vol 43: All Hail Megatron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v44.jpg|Vol 44: All Hail Megatron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v45.jpg|Vol 45: Last Stand of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v46.jpg|Vol 46: Things Fall Apart
DefinitiveG1Collection v47.jpg|Vol 47: International Incident
DefinitiveG1Collection v48.jpg|Vol 48: Revenge of the Decepticons
DefinitiveG1Collection v49.jpg|Vol 49: The Iron Age
DefinitiveG1Collection v50.jpg|Vol 50: Heart of Darkness
DefinitiveG1Collection v51.jpg|Vol 51: Chaos Theory
DefinitiveG1Collection v52.jpg|Vol 52: The Death of Optimus Prime
DefinitiveG1Collection v53.jpg|Vol 53: Liars, A to D
DefinitiveG1Collection v54.jpg|Vol 54: A Better Tomorrow
DefinitiveG1Collection v55.jpg|Vol 55: Shadowplay
DefinitiveG1Collection v56.jpg|Vol 56: City On Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v57.jpg|Vol 57: Remain In Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v58.jpg|Vol 58: Shockpoint
DefinitiveG1Collection v59.jpg|Vol 59: Dark Cybertron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v60.jpg|Vol 60: Dark Cybertron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v61.jpg|Vol 61: World Shut Your Mouth
DefinitiveG1Collection v62.jpg|Vol 62: Earthfall
DefinitiveG1Collection v63.jpg|Vol 63: Elegant Chaos
DefinitiveG1Collection v64.jpg|Vol 64: Windblade
DefinitiveG1Collection v65.jpg|Vol 65: Combiner Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v66.jpg|Vol 66: Speak, Memory
DefinitiveG1Collection v67.jpg|Vol 67: Conquerors
DefinitiveG1Collection v68.jpg|Vol 68: Empire of Stone
DefinitiveG1Collection v69.jpg|Vol 69: Sins of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v70.jpg|Vol 70: Punishment
DefinitiveG1Collection v71.jpg|Vol 71: All Hail Optimus
DefinitiveG1Collection v72.jpg|Vol 72: The Dying of the Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v75.jpg|Vol 75: Titans Return, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v76.jpg|Vol 76: Titans Return, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v77.jpg|Vol 77: Dissolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v78.jpg|Vol 78: New Cybertron
DefinitiveG1Collection v79.jpg|Vol 79: Primeless
DefinitiveG1Collection v80.jpg|Vol 80: Requiem of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v81.jpg|Vol 81: Revolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v82.jpg|Vol 82: Revolutionaries
DefinitiveG1Collection v83.jpg|Vol 83: First Strike
DefinitiveG1Collection v84.jpg|Vol 84: The Falling Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v85.jpg|Vol 85: The Falling Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v86.jpg|Vol 86: The Everlasting Voices


</gallery>
<gallery caption="Miscellaneous" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v73.jpg|Vol 73: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v74.jpg|Vol 74: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v92.jpg|Vol 92: Transformers: The Movie
DefinitiveG1Collection v93.jpg|Vol 93: Beast Wars: The Gathering

DefinitiveG1Collection v95.jpg|Vol 95: G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 1


</gallery>

''[[:Category:Definitive G1 Collection covers|Extended cover gallery]]''</center>

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

==External links==
*[http://www.transformerscollection.com/ Official website]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Definitive G1 Collection}}
[[Category:Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics continuity comic compilations]]
[[Category:Dreamwave Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Generation 1 comic compilations]]

Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection

2020-06-11T11:33:14Z

YoungDoctor: /* Volumes */

[[File:Definitive G1 Collection in full.jpg|thumb|upright=3.05|4/5 of a grand tale.]]

'''Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection''' is a fortnightly 100-volume partwork from [[Hachette]], edited by [[Simon Furman]]. Partworks are a Hachette specialty: a series will be collected out of order (the first ''Definitive'' was volume 6) for commercial purposes but can be collected on your shelf in order with a fancy picture on the collective spines. The collection aims to republish every single "Generation 1" comic ever made, including the original [[Marvel Comics]] run—UK and US—in order for the very first time. Each issue has a special cover and bonus content, and [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)#Fantastic Free Gift.21|Fantastic FREE! Gifts]] are provided for subscribers. Marvel UK strips which were originally printed in black-and-white have been given brand new colours by [[John-Paul Bove]] using emulations of both 1980s American and latter-day Marvel UK techniques.<ref>"A Different Approach to Colour", Vol.16</ref> These include "[[Raiders of the Last Ark]]" in volume 1 and many later strips starting with "[[Race with the Devil]]" in volume 16.

The series was initially announced in September 2016 to contain 60 issues—ending with the ''Dark Cybertron'' crossover—but by the time of its launch in December, it had already been extended to 80 issues, with volume 80 providing some closure in the form of ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One| Till All Are One]]'' and ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers| Requiem of the Wreckers]]''. In 2018, upon the conclusion of IDW's first continuity, fans observed that it would take around ten extra volumes to reprint the entire IDW catalogue—and on the 18th of July 2019, Simon Furman confirmed on Twitter that the collection had been extended by ''twenty'' issues for a total of 100.

Sounds great, right?

Well... not if you live outside the [[United Kingdom]] and [[Ireland]]. The partwork was given a trial-run in parts of the UK before a national release started in early 2017. In August 2017, the subscription also became available in [[Australia]],<ref>[http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?s=438cea1ad48786466241053a45f743ae&t=24685 Ozformers Transformers Club of Australia]: UK Definitive Comic collection from Hachette now in Australia</ref> but became unavailable in July 2018 due to the closure of the Australian distributor. In January 2019, it became available in [[Poland]],<ref>[https://transformers-kolekcja.pl/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIrYTRuabz3wIVl-F3Ch2P7wirEAAYASAAEgJKLvD_BwE Polish version of official site]</ref> with volumes being released in proper chronological order.

Even for those who were able to subscribe, the partwork ended up not being quite as ''definitive'' as advertised. The reprints of Marvel US material were taken from IDW's ''Transformers Classic'' 'remasters', complete with newly-introduced typos and haphazard attempts to 'fix' errors. As such, many of the minor edits made to those stories for their original UK printings (to better jive with Furman's expanded continuity) are absent.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-9#post-14167234 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "In order to smooth over the continuity cracks between the UK and US stories, the US books were usually edited (US#16-24 were especially affected) for their UK printing. But rather than the UK edits of the American stories, we get the familiar US versions. <nowiki>[...]</nowiki> Oh, and on page 214, there's a factual error as well, when it states that Transformers UK sold 200,000 copies per week. That's actually completely false. It actually sold 100,000 copies per week at its peak. That said, each individual comic sold would tend to be read by a number of people, as kids lent or gave their comics to siblings or school friends. It was calculated that, on average, each comic sold would be read by two-point-five people. Marvel (and other comic publishers such as Fleetway or IPC) would therefore take the ''actual'' circulation figures and apply this 2.5 multiplier to give a total readership that did exceed two hundred thousand on occasion. So whilst the ''readership'' was arguably 250K-plus, the actual ''number of copies'' sold was nowhere near that figure.</ref> Furthermore, thanks to the dreadfully-flat colouring of the ''Classics'' reprints, John Paul Bove's newly-coloured versions of the black-and-white UK strips—intended to match surrounding US stories—end up looking out of place anyway!

Cover galleries include the covers for both the US and UK stories, but ''not'' the UK-exclusive covers for US stories. Additionally, it's apparent that Hachette mapped out the partwork with the intent of being the first company to reprint the latter-day [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] material such as [[Transformers: Generation 1 (Dreamwave)|the Sunstorm arc]] and ''[[Transformers: Micromasters| Micromasters]]'', in volumes 27 and 28—but those volumes wound up containing issues from Dreamwave's ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)| Armada]]'' comic, which merely guest-starred G1 characters and seem very out of place in a "Definitive ''G1'' Collection". Presumably, this late change occurred for the same reason those stories have never been reprinted in the first place—nobody's sure whether the creative teams were actually ''paid'' for their work.

To make matters worse, the order in which much of the material is presented—particularly with IDW's stories—can often only be described as ''baffling''. Furthermore, many issues were first printed with glaring errors, and Hachette's own notoriously-bad customer service made obtaining corrected replacements a nightmare for many subscribers.

==Volumes==
{{note|Each volume contains cover art from the original issues, plus a new introduction by Simon Furman. The bonus features below are in addition to these.}}
{| class="wikitable sortable"
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Vol.
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Issue
! scope="col" style="width: 125px;" | Title
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Contents
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Bonus Features
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Release date
|-
| 06
| 01
|Target: 2006
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Target: 2006|#78–83]] "[[Cybertron: The Middle Years!]]" Marvel UK [[Target: 2006|#84–88]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Aerialbots over America!|#21]]–[[Decepticon Graffiti!|23]]
| A guide to the launch of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' in the UK and its marketing purposes for Marvel UK, a "Meet... The [[Wrecker]]s" feature, a behind-the-scenes look at the development of "Target: 2006", and a spotlight on [[Geoff Senior]].
|[[December 30|30/12]]/[[2016]]
|-
| 36
| 02
| Stormbringer
| ''[[Spotlight: Shockwave]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Soundwave]]'' [[The Transformers: Stormbringer|''Stormbringer'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Nightbeat]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Hot Rod]]''
| An article on the beginning of IDW-verse production and several sketches by Figueroa.
|[[January 11|11/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 16
| 03
| The Primal Scream
| [[Cold Comfort and Joy!|Marvel UK #198]], [[The Fall and Rise of the Decepticon Empire.|#213]]–[[Survivors!|222]] [[Back from the Dead|Marvel US #56]]–[[The Primal Scream|61]]
| An overview of the change in format of the UK series and the introduction of 5-page black-and-white strips, and an article by Bove on the colouring techniques used at Marvel UK and Marvel US in the 1980s, and how he emulated them for colourising the UK strips.
|[[January 27|27/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 18
| 04
| Edge of Extinction
| [[Rhythms of Darkness!|Marvel US #67]]–[[On the Edge of Extinction!|75]]
| An overview of [[Unicron/Generation 1#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel's Unicron]] and a spotlight on [[Andrew Wildman]].
|[[February 8|08/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 29
| 05
| The War Within
| [[Transformers: The War Within|The War Within #1–6]] and [[The War Within Preview|preview]]
| Various character design sketches by [[Don Figueroa]] and an article on the making of ''The War Within''.
|[[February 22|22/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 37
| 06
| Escalation
| ''[[Spotlight: Sixshot]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Ultra Magnus]]'' [[The Transformers: Escalation|''Escalation'' #1–6]]
| Sketches by [[E. J. Su]], bios on [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|IDW Ultra Magnus]] & [[Sixshot (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Sixshot]], an article on creating the IDW ''Spotlights'', and an interview with Su. 
|[[March 8|08/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 08
| 07
| Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive
| [[King of the Hill!|Marvel US #27]]–[[Mechanical Difficulties!|28]] [[Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive!|Marvel UK #113]]–[[Fire on High!|120]] "[[Vicious Circle!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]])
| An overview of the Marvel UK Annuals and a bio on [[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Goldbug]].
|[[March 22|22/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 39
| 08
| Hearts of Steel
| [[Hearts of Steel|''Hearts of Steel'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Galvatron]], [[Spotlight: Optimus Prime]], [[Spotlight: Mirage]]''
| Concept art by [[Guido Guidi]] and an article about the creation of ''Hearts of Steel''.
|[[April 5|05/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 10
| 09
| Trial by Fire
| [[The Transformers: Headmasters|Headmasters #1–4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Trial by Fire!|#38]]–[[The Desert Island of Space!|39]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Worlds Apart!|#130]]–[[Kup's Story!|132]]
| A retrospective on the [[The Transformers: Headmasters|''Headmasters'' miniseries]] and an overview of how Marvel UK handled toy marketing.
| [[April 19|19/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 21
| 10
| Regeneration One
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Counterpoint|#80.5]]–[[Loose Ends, Part 5|85]]
| A commentary on [[Loose Ends, Part 1|issue #81]] by Simon Furman, an overview on production leading up to ''Regeneration One'', and several cover sketches.
| [[May 3|03/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 31
| 11
| The Iron Fist
| [[Transformers/G.I. Joe|Transformers/G.I. Joe #1–6]]
| Various character design sketches by Figueroa and an overview of the many [[G.I. Joe crossovers]] across the comics.
| [[May 17|17/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 50
| 12
| Heart of Darkness
| [[The Transformers: Heart of Darkness|''Heart of Darkness'' #1–4]] [[Infestation (IDW)|''The Transformers: Infestation'' #1–2]]
| A post-mortem on "[[Zombie|Zombots]]" across the various comics and a bio on [[Hardhead (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Hardhead]].
| [[May 31|31/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 59
| 13
| Dark Cybertron, Part 1
| [[Dark Dawn: Dark Cybertron Chapter 1|''Dark Cybertron'' one-shot]] [[Little Victories|''More than Meets the Eye'' #22]]–[[No Exit: Dark Cybertron Chapter 6|25]] [[Winners & Losers: Dark Cybertron Chapter 3|''Robots in Disguise'' #23]]–[[Finest Hour: Dark Cybertron Chapter 5|24]]
| A bio on the [[Titan (group)|Titans]] and the making of ''Dark Cybertron'' with [[John Barber]] and James Roberts.
| [[June 14|14/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 01
| 14
| Power Play
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Transformers (issue)|#1]]–[[The Last Stand|4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Man of Iron (issue)|#9]]–[[Raiders of the Last Ark|#21]]
| The alternate ending of [[The Last Stand|Marvel US #4]], unused artwork from [[The Transformers (issue)|issue #1]] by [[Frank Springer]], and an overview of how Marvel UK first approached The Transformers.
| [[June 28|28/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 26
| 15
| War and Peace
| ''[[War and Peace|Transformers: Generation 1 vol. 2]]'' #1–6 and [[Transformers Volume 2 Preview|preview]]
| Top 10 Easter eggs for "[[War and Peace]]" and scorecards listing each faction and their crew members during the arc.
| [[July 12|12/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 35
| 16
| Primacy
| [[The Transformers: Monstrosity|''Monstrosity'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Primacy|''Primacy'' #1–4]]
| An interview with [[Flint Dille]] about his work on the G1 cartoon and his involvement in the ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy|Autocracy]]'' trilogy.
| [[July 26|26/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 64
| 17
| Windblade
| [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 1 #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[Onyx Interface Part One: Signals, Calls, and Marches|#35]]–[[The Onyx Interface Conclusion: The Obliterati|38]]
| A bio for [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]], an overview of her conception, pictures of her ''[[Thrilling 30]]'' toy, and early design sketches by Hasbro.
| [[August 9|09/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 19
| 18
| Perchance to Dream
| [[Out to Lunch!|Marvel UK #240]]–[[...Perchance to Dream|260]] [[Still Life!|Marvel US #76]]–[[Exodus!|77]]
| A Marvel UK ''Classic Heroes Competition!'' page, an overview of Furman's attempts to connect Marvel UK's black-and-white strips to the US stories and how he would eventually have to abandon doing so, an article on the "[[Two Megatrons!]]" confusion, and a bio on [[Thunderwing (G1)#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Thunderwing]].
| [[August 23|23/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 40
| 19
| Maximum Dinobots
| [[The Transformers: Maximum Dinobots|''Maximum Dinobots'' #1–5]] ''[[Spotlight: Grimlock]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Wheelie]]''
| Dinobot sketches by [[Nick Roche]] and [[Klaus Scherwinski]]'s ''Spotlight: Wheelie'' sketchbook.
| [[September 6|06/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 22
| 20
| Natural Selection
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Natural Selection, Part One|#86]]–[[Natural Selection, Part Five|90]] "[[Peace]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]])
| An overview of the [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Marvel ''Generation 2'' comic]] and several cover sketches.
| [[September 20|20/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 46
| 21
| Things Fall Apart
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Things Fall Apart, Part 1: "New Arrivals, Old Encounters"|#2]]–[[Scrapper (issue)|8]]
| Character design sketches by Figueroa, an extract from ''[[Decepticomments]]'' from [[Things Fall Apart, Part 3: "Seasons in Flight"|''The Transformers'' #4]] by [[Mike Costa]], and a bio on [[Swindle (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Swindle]].
| [[October 4|04/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 07
| 22
| The Harder They Die
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Prey!|#96]]–[[Resurrection!|104]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Afterdeath!|#24]]–[[Funeral for a Friend!|26]]
| An analysis of [[the many deaths of Optimus Prime]] in Generation 1.
| [[October 18|18/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 33
| 23
| Megatron: Origin
| [[The Transformers: Megatron Origin|''Megatron: Origin'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Blurr]]'', ''[[Omega's Conundrum|Spotlight: Orion Pax]]''
| A discussion of the production stages on ''Megatron: Origin'' by [[Eric Holmes]].
| [[November 1|01/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 14
| 24
| Space Pirates
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Wrecking Havoc|#172–173]], [[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|#180]]–[[Dry Run!|189]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|#43]] & [[The Man in the Machine!|#51]], "[[Altered Image!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]])
| How Marvel UK incorporated ''[[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|The Big Broadcast of 2006]]'' into the timeline.
| [[November 15|15/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 43
| 25
| All Hail Megatron, Part 1
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #1–8]]
| An article on creating ''All Hail Megatron'', character design sketches by Guidi, and the series pitch by [[Shane McCarthy]].
| [[November 29|29/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 52
| 26
| The Death of Optimus Prime
| [[Chaos (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1 #24, 26, 28, 30, 31]] ''[[Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime|The Death of Optimus Prime]]''
| An interview with [[James Roberts]] on how he worked his way up to become an ongoing writer, and character design sketches by [[Livio Ramondelli]].
| [[December 13|13/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 44
| 27
| All Hail Megatron, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #9–16]]
| A ''Decepticon Roll Call'' with mini-bios, and trivia about ''All Hail Megatron'' [[All Hail Megatron issue 13|#13]]–[[All Hail Megatron issue 16|16]], pointing out notable plot points in the ''Coda'' issues.
| [[December 27|27/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 20
| 28
| End of the Road
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[A Savage Circle|#78]]–[[End of the Road! (US)|80]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Starting Over!|#261]]–[[End of the Road! (UK)|289]]
| Articles about the ends of the US and UK series, including discussion of "[[Another Time & Place]]," the final letters page from #80, and script pages from #80.
| [[January 10|10/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 72
| 29
| The Dying of the Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Dying of the Light: (1) How Bright Their Frail Deeds|#50]]–[[The Dying of the Light Part 6: Do Not Go Gentle|55]]
| The bonus story "[[No Guns, No Swords, No Briefcases]] and essential background material on the [[Decepticon Justice Division|DJD]]
| [[January 24|24/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 75
| 30
| Titans Return, Part 1
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[07:00:00|#1]]–[[The Line Between Us|4]] [[The Last Autobot|''Titans Return'' one-shot]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[White Light|#56]]–[[White Heat|57]] ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Ten to Midnight|#56]]–[[Last Light (issue)|57]]
| "Creating the IDW-Verse" — a two-page article on the beginning of ''More than Meets the Eye'' and ''Robots in Disguise''.
| [[February 7|07/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 60
| 31
| Dark Cybertron, Part 2
| [[The Dead Are Not Enough: Dark Cybertron Chapter 7|''Robots in Disguise'' #25]]–[[Black Planet: Dark Cybertron Chapter 11|27]] [[Burning Bright: Dark Cybertron Chapter 8|''More than Meets the Eye'' #26]]–[[The Becoming: Dark Cybertron Chapter 10|27]] [[...And the Damage Done: Dark Cybertron Finale|''Dark Cybertron: Finale'' one-shot]]
| A blow-by-blow account of Dark Cybertron's hidden secrets
| [[February 21|21/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 71
| 32
| All Hail Optimus
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[All Hail Optimus Part 1: Once Upon a Time on Earth|#50]]–[[All Hail Optimus Part 6: No Fair Fights|55]]
| Background material on the [[Council of Worlds]]
| [[March 7|07/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 02
| 33
| New Order
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The New Order|#5]]–[[The Next Best Thing to Being There!|#10]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Decepticon Dam-Busters!|#29]]–[[The Wrath of Grimlock!|#32]] "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1995]])
| Insights into Marvel UK's efforts to ease the transition between the US and UK material
| [[March 21|21/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 03
| 34
| Dinobot Hunt
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Christmas Breaker!|#41]]–[[Dinobot Hunt!|50]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Brainstorm!|#11]]–[[Prime Time!|#12]]
| A look at the UK [[Christmas]] story tradition
| [[April 4|04/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 23
| 35
| Destiny
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Destiny, Part One|#91]]–[[Destiny, Part Five|95]], [[Less Than Zero|#0]] "[[Destiny of the Dinobots!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| A feature on Regeneration One issue #0 and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[April 18|18/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 30
| 36
| War Within: The Dark Ages
| [[Transformers: War Within: The Dark Ages|''War Within: The Dark Ages'' #1–6]]
| Synopsis of ''[[Transformers: War Within: The Age of Wrath|War Within: the Age of Wrath]]'', including art from unfinished issues.
| [[May 2|02/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 45
| 37
| Last Stand of the Wreckers
| [[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|''Last Stand of the Wreckers'' #1–5]] ''[[Ride-Along|Spotlight: Prowl]]'' [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[...For All Mankind|#1]]
| Interview with [[Nick Roche]], pre-production sketches and story drafts
| [[May 16|16/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 49
| 38
| The Iron Age
| [[The Transformers: Ironhide|''Ironhide'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Space Opera Part 1: The Stars My Destination|#19]]–[[Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix|21 ("Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix" only)]].
| Casey Coller's ''Ironhide'' sketchbook
| [[May 30|30/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 11
| 39
| The Legacy of Unicron
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Headhunt|#133]]–[[Ladies' Night (issue)|138]], "[[What's in a Name?]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]), [[The Legacy of Unicron!|#146–151]] "[[Ark Duty]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Pretender to the Throne!|#40]]–[[Totaled!|41]]
| A feature on the origins of the origin of the Transformers
| [[June 13|13/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 17
| 40
| Matrix Quest
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Bird of Prey!|#62]]–[[All Fall Down|66]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Aspects of Evil!|#223]]–[[A Savage Place!|239]] "[[The Chain Gang!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| Features on the stories behind "Matrix Quest" and, Marvel UK's crossover "[[Deathbringer (Marvel)|Deathbringer]]" saga
| [[June 27|27/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 73
| 41
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 1
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[The Golden Boys|#0]]–[[Headmasters (issue)|7]]
| A creator commentary on issue #0 and an exclusive interview with [[Tom Scioli]]
| [[July 11|11/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 76
| 42
| Titans Return, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]] [[Ping|#5]]–[[If I Know You|11]]
| Article on ''[[Revolution]]''
| [[July 25|25/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 62
| 43
| Earthfall
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Earthfall Part 1: Hello Cruel World|#28]]–[[The Crucible|34]]
| The lowdown on the (new) human cast and rare promotional posters for the [[Dawn of the Autobots]] event
| [[August 8|08/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 04
| 44
| Second Generation
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Shooting Star!|#13]]–[[Plight of the Bumblebee!|16]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Robot Buster!|#59]]–[[Second Generation!|65]] "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]])
| The story behind Marvel UK's Special Teams promotion
| [[August 22|22/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 32
| 45
| Infiltration
| [[The Transformers: Infiltration|''Infiltration'' #0–6]]
| An article on "Creating the IDW-Verse: From the Ground Up", "The Pitch" - Furman's original pitch to IDW for Infiltration, and some sketches by [[E. J. Su]].
| [[September 5|05/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 24
| 46
| The War to End All Wars
| ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]]'' [[The War to End All Wars, Part 1|#96]]–[[The War to End All Wars, Part 5|100]]
| the prose story "[[King of Shadows]]" and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[September 19|19/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 28
| 47
| Worlds Collide Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Worlds Collide|#14]]–[[The_End|18]] [[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye#Issue .238|Dreamwave's ''More than Meets the Eye'' #8]]
| A brief overview of Dreamwave's [[Transformers: Energon (comic)|Energon comic]] and a bonus glossary section dedicated entirely to background material from the Dreamwave G1-verse
| [[October 3|03/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 42
| 48
| Revelation
| ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]: [[Spotlight: Arcee|Arcee]], [[Spotlight: Cyclonus|Cyclonus]], [[Spotlight: Hardhead|Hardhead]], [[Spotlight: Doubledealer|Doubledealer]], [[Spotlight: Sideswipe|Sideswipe]], [[Spotlight: Jazz|Jazz]], [[Spotlight: Metroplex|Metroplex]]''
| "-Ations" retrospective, sketchbook art from Alex Milne and E. J. Su reprinted from individual ''Spotlights''
| [[October 17|17/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 65
| 49
| Combiner Wars
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[First Contact (IDW)|#39]]–[[Now and On Earth|42]] [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2 #1–4]]
| An article on the [[Prime Wars Trilogy]]
| [[October 31|31/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 79
| 50
| Primeless
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Life of Sideswipe|#9]]–[[Primeless, Part 2|12]] ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light|Lost Light]]'' [[Chasing the Infinite|#9]]–[[The Plotters' Club (Part 3): Journey's End|12]]
| A one-page editorial by Simon Furman that mentions the IDW universe's impending end
| [[November 14|14/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 12
| 51
| Cosmic Carnival
| [[Stargazing|Marvel UK #145]], [[Enemy Action!|152–153]], [[Salvage!|160–161]] [[People Power!|Marvel US #42]], [[The Cosmic Carnival|44]]–[[Ca$h and Car-nage!|46]]
| A behind-the-scenes look at the UK-only return of Megatron
| [[November 28|28/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 25
| 52
| Prime Directive
| [[Prime Directive|''Tranformers: Generation 1'' vol. 1 #1–6]] (plus [[Prime Directive Preview|Preview]])
| A two-page article on 'the in-between years' covering the time when no-one had the ''Transformers'' licence for comics.
| [[December 12|12/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 53
| 53
| Liars, A to D
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Liars, A to D Part 1: How to Say Goodbye and Mean It|#1]]–[[Interiors|6]], ''[[The Reluctant Specialist|Spotlight: Trailcutter]]'' and ''[[The Waiting Game|Spotlight: Hoist]]''
| An all-new interview with James Roberts, rare archive material from the dawn of MTMTE, Alex Milne's sketchbook.
| [[December 26|26/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 55
| 54
| Shadowplay
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Rules of Disengagement (issue)|#7]]–[[More than Meets the Eye issue 13|13]], plus the [[Primus: You, Me, and Other Revelations|2012 Annual]]
| The second of a new three-part interview with Roberts, early pages of scripts, and design sketches from Alex Milne.
| [[January 9|09/01]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 13
| 55
| City of Fear
| [[City of Fear!|Marvel UK #164]]–[[Deadly Games!|171]] [[Club Con!|Marvel US #47]]–[[Dark Star|50]] "[[Dreadwing Down!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]]) "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1985]])
| A behind-the scenes look at a sea change moment for the US comic (Furman's takeover as head writer) and a [[Bob Budiansky]] sketchbook.
| [[January 23|23/01]]/2019
|-
| 41
| 56
| Drift
| [[The Transformers: Drift|''The Transformers: Drift'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlight:]] ''[[Spotlight: Drift|Drift]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Blaster]]''
| An article on creating Drift and some design sketches by [[Guido Guidi]].
| [[February 6|06/02]]/2019
|-
| 74
| 57
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[Pax Megatronus|#8]]–[[The War Never Ends|13]]
| No extras, but still has the cover art and intro from Furman present on all issues.
| [[February 20|20/02]]/2019
|-
| 47
| 58
| International Incident
| [[The Transformers: Bumblebee|''The Transformers: Bumblebee'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[International Incident Part 1: "The Land Ironclads"|#9]]–[[International Incident Part 4: "All My Sins Remembered"|12]]
| An interview with [[Zander Cannon]] and breakdowns for pages 1–4 of each issue of the ''Bumblebee'' mini-series.
| [[March 6|06/03]]/2019
|-
| 05
| 59
| The Smelting Pool
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Smelting Pool!|#17]]–[[Showdown!|#20]] "[[Victory!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[In the National Interest|#74–77]]
|Background material on the [[Cybertron (planet)|planet Cybertron]] with map.
| [[March 20|20/03]]/2019
|-
| 54
| 60
| A Better Tomorrow
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[The Autonomy Lesson (issue)|#1]]–[[Interference Patterns|7]]
| A new interview with [[John Barber]]
| [[April 3|03/04]]/2019
|-
| 48
| 61
| Revenge of the Decepticons
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Heart Like a Wheel|#13]]–[[Revenge of the Decepticons Part 5: Enemy Mine|18]] ''[[Spotlight: Megatron]]''
| A ''Spotlight: Megatron'' sketchbook
| [[April 17|17/04]]/2019
|-
| 15
| 62
| Time Wars
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Time Wars|#199–205]] "[[All in the Minds!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Guess Who the Mecannibals Are Having for Dinner?|#52]]–[[The Interplanetary Wrestling Championship!|55]].
| A behind-the-scenes look at Galvatron's storyline
| [[May 1|01/05]]/2019
|-
| 58
| 63
| Shockpoint
|[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]] #[[Plan for Everything|15]]–[[Soundwaves (issue)|22]]
| A 2-page history of IDW Shockwave's history-setting plans.
| [[May 15|15/05]]/2019
|-
| 80
| 64
| Requiem of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[Your First Mistake|#12]] [[The Chosen One|''Till Are Are One'' Annual]] [[Ghost Stories|2017 ''Transformers'' Annual]] ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers|Requiem of the Wreckers]]''
| Wreckers sketchbook and notebook material from [[Nick Roche]].
| [[May 29|29/05]]/2019
|-
| 63
| 65
| Elegant Chaos
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Custom-Made Now - An Elegant Chaos Prologue|#35]]–[[The Frail Gaze|42]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[June 12|12/06]]/2019
|-
| 09
| 66
| Toy Soldiers
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Ancient Relics!|#125 and ''Action Force'' #24–27]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Crater Critters|#29]]–[[Used Autobots|#32]], [[Child%27s_Play_(issue)|#35]]–[[Toy Soldiers!|#37]]
| A one-page behind-the-scenes feature on "[[Man of Iron (issue)|Man of Iron]]" and how it got reprinted in the US comic.
| [[June 26|26/06]]/2019
|-
| 78
| 67
| New Cybertron
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[New Cybertron Part 1: To Walk Among the Chosen|#1]]–[[What It's Really Like|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Kei Zama]]
| [[July 10|10/07]]/2019
|-
| 67
| 68
| Conquerors
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[South of Heaven|#43]]–[[Conquerors Part 4: Perihelion|49]] ''[[An Uneventful Night|Combiner Hunters]]'' one-shot
| Development art by [[Andrew Griffith]]
| [[July 24|24/07]]/2019
|-
| 38
| 69
| Devastation
| ''[[The Transformers: Devastation]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]'' for [[Spotlight: Kup|Kup]], [[Spotlight: Ramjet|Ramjet]] and [[Spotlight: Cliffjumper|Cliffjumper]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 7|07/08]]/2019
|-
| 57
| 70
| Remain in Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Remembrance Day|#14]]–[[Remain in Light 5 of 5: This Calamitous Life|21]] Prose stories "[[Signal to Noise]]" and "[[The Sound of Breaking Glass]]"
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 21|21/08]]/2019
|-
| 77
| 71
| Dissolution
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Dissolution Part 1: Some Other Cybertron|#1]]–[[An Axe to Break the Ice|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Jack Lawrence]]
| [[September 4|04/09]]/2019
|-
| 69
| 72
| Sins of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Sins of the Wreckers|Sins of the Wreckers]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers Holiday Special]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[September 18|18/09]]/2019
|-
| 56
| 73
| City On Fire
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Dinobot Hunt (IDW)|#8]]–[[Before the Dawn|14]] [[Primus: All Good Things|2012 Annual]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[October 2|02/10]]/2019
|-
| 34
| 74
| Autocracy
| ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy]]'' miniseries ''[[The Hunting Party (IDW)|Spotlight: Thundercracker]]''
| A one-page article on ''Autocracy'', including an interview with co-writer [[Chris Metzen]].
| [[October 16|16/10]]/2019
|-
| 70
| 75
| Punishment
| ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Redemption]]'' one-shot ''[[The Transformers: Salvation]]'' one-shot
| An article about the Motion Book Tool app used for the digital version of ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'', a "Brief History of the (IDW) Dinobots", and a [[Livio Ramondelli]] sketchbook.
| [[October 30|30/10]]/2019
|-
| 27
| 76
| Worlds Collide Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_8|#8]]–[[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_13|13]] [[More_than_Meets_the_Eye:_Transformers:_Armada|''More than Meets the Eye: Armada'' ]] (select material)
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 13|13/11]]/2019
|-
| 68
| 77
| Empire of Stone
| ''[[The Transformers: Drift - Empire of Stone|Drift - Empire of Stone]]'' miniseries [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2]] issues 5–7
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 27|27/11]]/2019
|-
| 51
| 78
| Chaos Theory
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Police Action: Prologue|#21 ("Police Action: Prologue" only)]], [[Chaos Theory Part 1|#22–23]], [[Police Action: Part 1|25]], [[Police Action Part 2: Only Forward|27]], [[Police Action Part 3: A Second Chance at Eden|29]] [[The Question|Spotlight: Bumblebee]]
| A one-page article exploring the origins of the "[[Chaos (IDW)|Chaos]]" arc and beyond.
| [[December 11|11/12]]/2019
|-
| 66
| 79
| Speak, Memory
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The One Where They Go to Earth|#43]]–[[Speak, Memory! (Part 2)|49]]
| A one-page article about the [[Scavenger (group)|Scavengers]].
| [[December 25|25/12]]/2019
|-
| 61
| 80
| World, Shut Your Mouth
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[World, Shut Your Mouth Part 1: Towards Peace|#28]]–[[Births, Deaths, and Interventions|34]]
| A page of "Season 2" character posters.
| [[January 8|08/01]]/[[2020]]
|-
| 84
| 81
| The Falling: Part 1
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Dead Come Home, Part 1 (of 2)|#13]]–[[The Falling, Chapter 3: The Ground|17]] ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[Starscream: The Movie (comic)|Annual 2018]]
| A one-page article about the Primes.
| [[January 22|22/01]]/2020
|-
| 90
| 82
| Generation 2: Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[Ghosts|#0]]–[[The Gathering Darkness|6]]
| An article about [[Fleetway]]'s [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Fleetway)|UK ''Generation 2'' comic]], including [small-scale scans of] "[[War Without End (issue)|War Without End]]", their first UK-original ''G2'' strip.
| [[February 5|05/02]]/2020
|-
| 81
| 83
| Revolution
| ''[[Revolution]]'' [[Secret Raiders: A Revolution Prelude|#0]]–[[Valley Forge|5]] ''[[Thundercracker & Buster Save the World|The Transformers]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Informed|Till All Are One]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Nothing Will Ever Be the Same Again!|More than Meets the Eye]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro.
| [[February 19|19/02]]/2020
|-
| 89
| 84
| Realignments
| ''[[G.I. Joe and the Transformers (comic)|G.I. Joe and the Transformers]]'' [[Blood on the Tracks|#1]]–[[...All Fall Down!|4]] [[G.I. Joe (comic)|Marvel's ''G.I. Joe'']] [[Unfoldings!|#138]]–[[Final Transformations|142]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[March 4|04/03]]/2020
|-
| 82
| 85
| Revolutionaries
| ''[[Revolutionaries]]'' [[Crisis Intervention|#1]]–[[Ghost in the Machine (IDW)|8]]
| A two-page timeline of major IDW continuity events from issue #1, and the character profiles also from issue #1.
| [[March 18|18/03]]/2020
|-
| 92
| 86
| Transformers: The Movie
| [[Transformers: The Movie (Marvel comic)|Marvel's adaption]] of [[The Transformers: The Movie|the 1986 animated movie]] [[Transformers: The Animated Movie|IDW's adaption]] of that same movie
| A one-page article about the movie-verse in comics.
| [[April 1|01/04]]/2020
|-
| 83
| 87
| First Strike
| ''[[First Strike]]'' [[First Strike issue 0|#0]]–[[First Strike issue 6|6]] [[Unification Day: Dusk|First Strike: Transformers]] one-shot [[Unification Day: Dawn|First Strike: Optimus Prime]] one-shot
| A one-page "Prelude to...Unicron!" article, preceding the reprint of "[[First Strike issue 6#Coda: "The Signal"|The Signal]]".
| [[April 22|22/04]]/2020
|-
| 95
| 88
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 1
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers'' #1–6]]
| A one-page article about Devil's Due, a two-page article about creating the "Devil's Due-verse" and three pages of [[Mike S. Miller]]'s sketchbook art.
| [[May 13|13/05]]/2020
|-
| 85
| 89
| The Falling, Part 2
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Falling, Interlude: The First Who Was Named|#18]]–[[A Sunrise Dark|24]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[June 3|03/06]]/2020
|-
| 93
| 90
| Beast Wars: The Gathering
| [[Transformers, Beast Wars: The Gathering|''Beast Wars: The Gathering'' #1–4]]
and material from [[Transformers: Beast Wars Sourcebook]]
|
| [[June 17|17/06]]/2020
|-
| 86
| 91
| The Everlasting Voices
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Sardines|#13]]–[[The Everlasting Voices (3): You Are Here|18]] (assumed)
|
| [[July 1|01/07]]/2020
|-
| 96
| 92
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 2
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II'' #1–4]] (assumed)
|
| [[July 15|15/07]]/2020
|-
| 87
| 93
| Crucible
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Crucible (Part 1): A Dance Before Dying|#19]]–[[How To Say Goodbye And Mean It: Part 2|25]] (assumed)
|
| [[July 29|27/07]]/2020
|-
| 91
| 94
| Generation 2, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[New Dawn|#7]]–[[A Rage in Heaven!|12]] (assumed)
|
| [[August 12|12/08]]/2020
|-
| 88
| 95
| Unicron
| ''[[Transformers: Unicron]]'' [[Our Darkest|#0]]–[[Ceremony|6]] (assumed) ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[Post|#25]]
|
| [[August 26|26/08]]/2020
|-
| 94
| 96
| Beast Wars: The Ascending
| [[Transformers: Beast Wars: The Ascending|''Beast Wars: The Ascending'' #1–4]] (assumed)
|
| [[September 9|09/09]]/2020
|-
| 97
| 97
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 3
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War'' #1–5]] (assumed)
|
| [[September 23|23/09]]/2020
|-
| 98
| 98
| The World In Your Eyes
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The World In Your Eyes Part One|#1]]–[[Orion Pax: Free Fall|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[October 7|07/10]]/2020
|-
| 99
| 99
| The Cracks Beneath Your Feet
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The Cracks Beneath Your Feet Part One|#7]]–[[Nautica: Home|12]] (assumed)
|
| [[October 21|21/10]]/2020
|-
| 100
| 100
| Constructicons Rising
| ''[[Transformers: Galaxies]]'' [[Constructicons Rising, Part 1|#1]]–[[Wannabee, Part 2|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[November 4|04/11]]/2020
|}

==Notes==
* The free gifts shipped to subscribers with the first five deliveries (each consisting of two isses - except the first, which included a third issue free) were:
** Autobot/Decepticon [[insignia]] keyrings!
** A wallet!
** A tin-plate version of the cover to "[[Dark Star]]", featuring a cosmically-empowered [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]]!
** A mug!
** A pair of metal Autobot/Decepticon insignia bookends!<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20170112033736/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* Before the partwork launched, the second free gift was advertised as an [[Insignia|Autobrand]] belt buckle.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20160914212214/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* The first issue collected "[[Target: 2006]]", and was coincidentally out at newsagents thirty years after the story originally ran.<ref>[http://thesolarpool.weebly.com/transformers-uk227.html Solar Pool]: "The Target: 2006 book is already out... if it doesn’t [finish], Target: 2006 was back on at least some newsagents shelves towards the end of its 30th anniversary week. How cool is that?"</ref>
* The printings of Marvel material aren't really identical to those released by IDW—for instance, issue 1 (volume 6 - confused yet?) includes various Marvel trademarks (such as the superheroes around the edge of the cover to "Heavy Traffic" and the kid wearing a Spider-Man t-shirt in "Decepticon Graffiti") which were painted out of IDW's reprints due to rights issues.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-10#post-14168736 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "The weird thing is, though, these '''aren't''' the IDW versions. The cover to Heavy Traffic has all the Marvel characters around the edge, and the little kid in Decepticon Graffiti is wearing his Spider-Man t-shirt. This stuff was painted out of the IDW trades due to rights issues with Marvel."</ref>

===Errors===
* When the website launched, it accidentally credited [[Andrew Wildman|Andrew ''Wlid''man]].
* Copies of the first issue provided to general retail and initial subscribers had an error on the spine, with the black volume number box at the top being the wrong size.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14249131 ultra badness on the TFW2005 forums]: "I just got an email from Hachette to say they had misprinted the spine art on issue 1. And hey will send a replacement. Hurrah! Im going to have 3 issues!"</ref> Subscribers received free corrected copies, while those who bought theirs at newsagents had to wait for replacements which were included with issue 7.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14256091 Magnus' Mate on TFW2005]: "Incidentally, the 'corrected' #1 will be available to non-subscribers as well, included free with issue #7!"</ref> Hachette were seen giving away error-stricken copies for free at a signing event at a London comic shop.<ref>[http://forums.millarworld.tv/t/the-trades-thread-hardcovers-graphic-novels-and-more/4923/2359 Millarworld forums (dead link)]</ref> This error shouldn't be confused with the change in spine art for the first four issues made between the limited trial run and the mass release,<ref>[http://www.facebook.com/TransformersG1Collection/posts/1533415153338562?comment_id=1533436356669775&reply_comment_id=1533593929987351 Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection on Facebook]</ref> which means that anyone who subscribed to the series from its trial will end up with ''three'' different copies of issue 1.
* The poster included with issue 1 includes a bio for [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]]... which uses an image of [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]].<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13983869 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "Also: the poster that comes with Volume 1 (Target: 2006) shows some small character bios but goofs up the "Jazz" bio by using a picture of Prowl."</ref>
* The trial versions of issues 1 and 2 had the inside cover art swapped: the "Target: 2006" book had artwork for ''Stormbringer'', and vice versa.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13989359 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "On anybody else's copies, is the inside cover art wrong? I've got Stormbringer art inside the Target:2006 book, and Target:2006 art inside the Stormbringer book."</ref>
* A feature in issue 1 states that the Marvel UK comic sold 200,000 copies per week, when really it only sold 100,000 per week ''at its peak''. This error presumably stems from the fact that Marvel (and other publishers at the time) multiplied their circulation figures by 2.5 to calculate their readership, as they estimated that many issues would be shared between friends and siblings.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>
* Hatchette's own masterings of the comics introduce yet more errors. In issue 1, for example, an instance of '[[Skids (G1)|]]' in dialogue is misspelled as 'Skips'.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14277882 Bass X0 on the TFW2005 forums]: "In Decepticon Graffiti, Skids is called Skips on the second page."</ref> This error was not present in IDW's original reprints.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-13#post-14316444 Magnus' Mate on the TFW2005 forums]: "Except the IDW "Transformers Classics" volume 2 with issue #23 in doesn't have this same problem - Skids is still Skids, not Skips! I know there are other problems with them, but this one is on Hachette."</ref>
* The bio for John Paul Bove included in issue 3 (volume 16) was apparently written by himself in the first person, then edited into the third person—one of the sentences written in first person remains!<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-8#post-14101771 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "There is also a half page bio on JP, which was obviously written by himself in the first person, and then edited to be the third person- but they missed one of the first person senetnces and it is still in there!"</ref>
* Some copies of volume 22 had a number erroneously printed on one of the pages.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-20#post-15179844 rodster6 on the TFW2005 forums]: "Got volume 7 today (which I think is issue 22) and there is a weird number printed randomly on one page that shouldn't be there."</ref>
* The first print run for volume 35 had an error where the last two pages of ''Monstrosity'' #11 were swapped with two from "War and Peace" #3.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-18#post-14880721 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "The last two pages of Monstrosity #11 have been swapped with the ones from W&P #3"</ref>
* Many volumes include pages which are stuck together, though this is easy enough for the reader to fix.
* Though some readers may try to convince you otherwise, [[Mister Johnson]] is not an error.

===Reading order===
*Within individual volumes, Marvel material is segregated between US and UK stories—even when those stories were originally interspersed, with connected narratives!
**The material in volume 2 should be ordered US #5-8, UK #29-32, US #9-10. "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" is a Furman-penned comic from [[Transformers Annual 1985|the 1995 annual]], but it's a standalone flashback that isn't referenced until UK #44. "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" (the other comic from the annual) is set in the present day but doesn't match up with the continuity at large—for some reason it's included as backmatter to volume 13, alongside stories released three years later!
**Volume 3 presents UK #41-50 before US #11-12. This should be the other way around!
**The pack-in comic "[[The Special Teams Have Arrived]]" is absent—but of course, it was completely retold in UK #63-65, included here in volume 4.
**The two comic stories from [[Transformers Annual 1986|the 1986 annual]] aren't directly connected to specific issues; "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" doesn't really fit into continuity at all, but certainly takes place after UK #65—which is where the partwork puts it—while "[[Victory!]]" (which explains what happened to the Dinobots between UK #50 and #65) is placed before UK #74-77, another Dinobot-centric story which touches on its events.
**"[[The Gift]]", UK #93's seasonal story by [[James Hill]], is omitted; it should be placed in volume 6 between US #22 and US #23.
**Volume 8 presents US #28 before UK #113-120, despite it having been published afterwards as UK #121-122, which means that [[Bumblebee (G1)|Goldbug]] appears before he is created!
**The stories from [[Transformers Annual 1987|the 1987 annual]] are scattered. "[[Vicious Circle!]]" is placed in volume 8 alongside UK #113-120, collectively forming the first "post-movie" storyline. "What's In a Name?" is set during UK #135-136, but for some reason is placed after UK #137-138 in volume 11. "[[Ark Duty]]" is also thrown into volume 11, after UK #146-151... despite chronologically taking place some time before that story.
**The ''[[Action Force (comic)|Action Force]]'' crossover "[[Ancient Relics!]]" is printed in volume 9 before US #29. It was originally printed afterwards, interrupting the two-part story told across issues #29-30, but this change doesn't affect continuity.
**As noted on the [[Earthforce]] page, the black-and-white backup strips from the tail-end of the Marvel UK run didn't really fit with the US material; this collection sidesteps the issue by placing them in a couple of blocks in volumes 19 and 20.
*Presumably as an editorial decision, the partwork omits a large quantity of prose material.
**Marvel UK's prose content is mostly omitted, although it bears mentioning that much of it is tricky to reconcile with the continuity proper anyway. This includes James Hill's four stories from the 1985 and 1986 annuals ("[[Missing in Action]]", "[[Hunted!]]", "[[The Return of the Transformers]]" and "[[State Games]]"), Jamie Delano's "[[The Mission]]" (also from 1986), Furman's in-universe recaps from the 1986 and 1989 annuals ("[[In the Beginning...]]" and "[[The Saga of the Transformers — So Far!]]"), Ian Rimmer's "[[Prime Bomb!]]" (also from 1989), both stories from the 1990 annual ("[[The Quest!]]" and "[[Trigger-Happy!]]"), the 1991 annual's "[[The Magnificent Six!]]", and the 1992 annual's "[[Another Time & Place]]". UK #302's "[[Dreadwind's Xmas!]]" is absent too.
**The various prose stories, profiles and comics first printed with the collected editions of ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers| Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'' are absent.
**Tom Scioli's four-page "[[Black Cybertron]]" prose story from ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe issue 10|#10]] is omitted, along with the creators' commentaries which graced the other issues in the series.

==Covers==
<center><gallery caption="Marvel (US & UK)" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v1.jpg|Vol 1: Power Play
DefinitiveG1Collection v2.jpg|Vol 2: New Order
DefinitiveG1Collection v3.jpg|Vol 3: Dinobot Hunt
DefinitiveG1Collection v4.jpg|Vol 4: Second Generation
DefinitiveG1Collection v5.jpg|Vol 5: The Smelting Pool
DefinitiveG1Collection v6.jpg|Vol 6: Target: 2006
DefinitiveG1Collection v7.jpg|Vol 7: The Harder They Die
DefinitiveG1Collection v8.jpg|Vol 8: Wanted: Galvatron - Dead or Alive
DefinitiveG1Collection v9.jpg|Vol 9: Toy Soldiers
DefinitiveG1Collection v10.jpg|Vol 10: Trial by Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v11.jpg|Vol 11: The Legacy of Unicron
DefinitiveG1Collection v12.jpg|Vol 12: Cosmic Carnival
DefinitiveG1Collection v13.jpg|Vol 13: City of Fear
DefinitiveG1Collection v14.jpg|Vol 14: Space Pirates
DefinitiveG1Collection v15.jpg|Vol 15: Time Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v16.jpg|Vol 16: The Primal Scream
DefinitiveG1Collection v17.jpg|Vol 17: Matrix Quest
DefinitiveG1Collection v18.jpg|Vol 18: Edge of Extinction
DefinitiveG1Collection v19.jpg|Vol 19: Perchance to Dream
DefinitiveG1Collection v20.jpg|Vol 20: End of the Road
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Marvel's Generation 2" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v89.jpg|Vol 89: Realignments
DefinitiveG1Collection v90.jpg|Vol 90: Generation 2 Part 1

</gallery>
<gallery caption="IDW's Regeneration One" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v21.jpg|Vol 21: Regeneration One
DefinitiveG1Collection v22.jpg|Vol 22: Natural Selection
DefinitiveG1Collection v23.jpg|Vol 23: Destiny
DefinitiveG1Collection v24.jpg|Vol 24: The War to End All Wars
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Dreamwave Productions" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v25.jpg|Vol 25: Prime Directive
DefinitiveG1Collection v26.jpg|Vol 26: War and Peace
DefinitiveG1Collection v27.jpg|Vol 27: Worlds Collide Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v28.jpg|Vol 28: Worlds Collide Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v29.jpg|Vol 29: The War Within
DefinitiveG1Collection v30.jpg|Vol 30: War Within: The Dark Ages
DefinitiveG1Collection v31.jpg|Vol 31: The Iron Fist
</gallery>

<gallery caption="2005 IDW continuity" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v32.jpg|Vol 32: Infiltration
DefinitiveG1Collection v33.jpg|Vol 33: Megatron Origin
DefinitiveG1Collection v34.jpg|Vol 34: Autocracy
DefinitiveG1Collection v35.jpg|Vol 35: Primacy
DefinitiveG1Collection v36.jpg|Vol 36: Stormbringer
DefinitiveG1Collection v37.jpg|Vol 37: Escalation
DefinitiveG1Collection v38.jpg|Vol 38: Devastation
DefinitiveG1Collection v39.jpg|Vol 39: Hearts of Steel
DefinitiveG1Collection v40.jpg|Vol 40: Maximum Dinobots
DefinitiveG1Collection v41.jpg|Vol 41: Drift
DefinitiveG1Collection v42.jpg|Vol 42: Revelation
DefinitiveG1Collection v43.jpg|Vol 43: All Hail Megatron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v44.jpg|Vol 44: All Hail Megatron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v45.jpg|Vol 45: Last Stand of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v46.jpg|Vol 46: Things Fall Apart
DefinitiveG1Collection v47.jpg|Vol 47: International Incident
DefinitiveG1Collection v48.jpg|Vol 48: Revenge of the Decepticons
DefinitiveG1Collection v49.jpg|Vol 49: The Iron Age
DefinitiveG1Collection v50.jpg|Vol 50: Heart of Darkness
DefinitiveG1Collection v51.jpg|Vol 51: Chaos Theory
DefinitiveG1Collection v52.jpg|Vol 52: The Death of Optimus Prime
DefinitiveG1Collection v53.jpg|Vol 53: Liars, A to D
DefinitiveG1Collection v54.jpg|Vol 54: A Better Tomorrow
DefinitiveG1Collection v55.jpg|Vol 55: Shadowplay
DefinitiveG1Collection v56.jpg|Vol 56: City On Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v57.jpg|Vol 57: Remain In Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v58.jpg|Vol 58: Shockpoint
DefinitiveG1Collection v59.jpg|Vol 59: Dark Cybertron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v60.jpg|Vol 60: Dark Cybertron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v61.jpg|Vol 61: World Shut Your Mouth
DefinitiveG1Collection v62.jpg|Vol 62: Earthfall
DefinitiveG1Collection v63.jpg|Vol 63: Elegant Chaos
DefinitiveG1Collection v64.jpg|Vol 64: Windblade
DefinitiveG1Collection v65.jpg|Vol 65: Combiner Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v66.jpg|Vol 66: Speak, Memory
DefinitiveG1Collection v67.jpg|Vol 67: Conquerors
DefinitiveG1Collection v68.jpg|Vol 68: Empire of Stone
DefinitiveG1Collection v69.jpg|Vol 69: Sins of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v70.jpg|Vol 70: Punishment
DefinitiveG1Collection v71.jpg|Vol 71: All Hail Optimus
DefinitiveG1Collection v72.jpg|Vol 72: The Dying of the Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v75.jpg|Vol 75: Titans Return, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v76.jpg|Vol 76: Titans Return, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v77.jpg|Vol 77: Dissolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v78.jpg|Vol 78: New Cybertron
DefinitiveG1Collection v79.jpg|Vol 79: Primeless
DefinitiveG1Collection v80.jpg|Vol 80: Requiem of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v81.jpg|Vol 81: Revolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v82.jpg|Vol 82: Revolutionaries
DefinitiveG1Collection v83.jpg|Vol 83: First Strike
DefinitiveG1Collection v84.jpg|Vol 84: The Falling Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v85.jpg|Vol 85: The Falling Part 2



</gallery>
<gallery caption="Miscellaneous" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v73.jpg|Vol 73: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v74.jpg|Vol 74: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v92.jpg|Vol 92: Transformers: The Movie


DefinitiveG1Collection v95.jpg|Vol 95: G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 1


</gallery>

''[[:Category:Definitive G1 Collection covers|Extended cover gallery]]''</center>

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[http://www.transformerscollection.com/ Official website]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Definitive G1 Collection}}
[[Category:Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics continuity comic compilations]]
[[Category:Dreamwave Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Generation 1 comic compilations]]

Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection

2020-06-04T20:13:18Z

YoungDoctor: /* Volumes */

[[File:Definitive G1 Collection in full.jpg|thumb|upright=3.05|4/5 of a grand tale.]]

'''Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection''' is a fortnightly 100-volume partwork from [[Hachette]], edited by [[Simon Furman]]. Partworks are a Hachette specialty: a series will be collected out of order (the first ''Definitive'' was volume 6) for commercial purposes but can be collected on your shelf in order with a fancy picture on the collective spines. The collection aims to republish every single "Generation 1" comic ever made, including the original [[Marvel Comics]] run—UK and US—in order for the very first time. Each issue has a special cover and bonus content, and [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)#Fantastic Free Gift.21|Fantastic FREE! Gifts]] are provided for subscribers. Marvel UK strips which were originally printed in black-and-white have been given brand new colours by [[John-Paul Bove]] using emulations of both 1980s American and latter-day Marvel UK techniques.<ref>"A Different Approach to Colour", Vol.16</ref> These include "[[Raiders of the Last Ark]]" in volume 1 and many later strips starting with "[[Race with the Devil]]" in volume 16.

The series was initially announced in September 2016 to contain 60 issues—ending with the ''Dark Cybertron'' crossover—but by the time of its launch in December, it had already been extended to 80 issues, with volume 80 providing some closure in the form of ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One| Till All Are One]]'' and ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers| Requiem of the Wreckers]]''. In 2018, upon the conclusion of IDW's first continuity, fan observed that it would take around ten extra volumes to reprint the entire IDW catalogue—and on the 18th of July 2019, Simon Furman confirmed on Twitter that the collection had been extended by ''twenty'' issues for a total of 100.

Sounds great, right?

Well... not if you live outside the [[United Kingdom]] and [[Ireland]]. The partwork was given a trial-run in parts of the UK before a national release started in early 2017. In August 2017, the subscription also became available in [[Australia]],<ref>[http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?s=438cea1ad48786466241053a45f743ae&t=24685 Ozformers Transformers Club of Australia]: UK Definitive Comic collection from Hachette now in Australia</ref> but became unavailable in July 2018 due to the closure of the Australian distributor. In January 2019, it became available in [[Poland]],<ref>[https://transformers-kolekcja.pl/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIrYTRuabz3wIVl-F3Ch2P7wirEAAYASAAEgJKLvD_BwE Polish version of official site]</ref> with volumes being released in proper chronological order.

Even for those who were able to subscribe, the partwork ended up not being quite as ''definitive'' as advertised. The reprints of Marvel US material were taken from IDW's ''Transformers Classic'' 'remasters', complete with newly-introduced typos and haphazard attempts to 'fix' errors. As such, many of the minor edits made to those stories for their original UK printings (to better jive with Furman's expanded continuity) are absent.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-9#post-14167234 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "In order to smooth over the continuity cracks between the UK and US stories, the US books were usually edited (US#16-24 were especially affected) for their UK printing. But rather than the UK edits of the American stories, we get the familiar US versions. <nowiki>[...]</nowiki> Oh, and on page 214, there's a factual error as well, when it states that Transformers UK sold 200,000 copies per week. That's actually completely false. It actually sold 100,000 copies per week at its peak. That said, each individual comic sold would tend to be read by a number of people, as kids lent or gave their comics to siblings or school friends. It was calculated that, on average, each comic sold would be read by two-point-five people. Marvel (and other comic publishers such as Fleetway or IPC) would therefore take the ''actual'' circulation figures and apply this 2.5 multiplier to give a total readership that did exceed two hundred thousand on occasion. So whilst the ''readership'' was arguably 250K-plus, the actual ''number of copies'' sold was nowhere near that figure.</ref> Furthermore, thanks to the dreadfully-flat colouring of the ''Classics'' reprints, John Paul Bove's newly-coloured versions of the black-and-white UK strips—intended to match surrounding US stories—end up looking out of place anyway!

Cover galleries include the covers for both the US and UK stories, but ''not'' the UK-exclusive covers for US stories. Additionally, it's apparent that Hatchette mapped out the partwork with the intent of being the first company to reprint the latter-day Dreamwave material such as [[Transformers: Generation 1 (Dreamwave)|the Sunstorm arc]] and ''[[Transformers: Micromasters| Micromasters]]'', in volumes 27 and 28—but those volumes wound up containing issues from Dreamwave's ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)| Armada]]'' comic, which merely guest-starred G1 characters and seem very out of place in a "Definitive ''G1'' Collection". Presumably, this late change occurred for the same reason those stories have never been reprinted in the first place—nobody's sure whether the creative teams were actually ''paid'' for their work.

To make matters worse, the order in which much of the material is presented—particularly with IDW's stories—can often only be described as ''baffling''. Furthermore, many issues were first printed with glaring errors, and Hatchette's own notoriously-bad customer service made obtaining corrected replacements a nightmare for many subscribers.

==Volumes==
{{note|Each volume contains cover art from the original issues, plus a new introduction by Simon Furman. The bonus features below are in addition to these.}}
{| class="wikitable sortable"
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Vol.
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Issue
! scope="col" style="width: 125px;" | Title
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Contents
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Bonus Features
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Release date
|-
| 06
| 01
|Target: 2006
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Target: 2006|#78–83]] "[[Cybertron: The Middle Years!]]" Marvel UK [[Target: 2006|#84–88]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Aerialbots over America!|#21]]–[[Decepticon Graffiti!|23]]
| A guide to the launch of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' in the UK and its marketing purposes for Marvel UK, a "Meet... The [[Wrecker]]s" feature, a behind-the-scenes look at the development of "Target: 2006", and a spotlight on [[Geoff Senior]].
|[[December 30|30/12]]/[[2016]]
|-
| 36
| 02
| Stormbringer
| ''[[Spotlight: Shockwave]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Soundwave]]'' [[The Transformers: Stormbringer|''Stormbringer'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Nightbeat]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Hot Rod]]''
| An article on the beginning of IDW-verse production and several sketches by Figueroa.
|[[January 11|11/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 16
| 03
| The Primal Scream
| [[Cold Comfort and Joy!|Marvel UK #198]], [[The Fall and Rise of the Decepticon Empire.|#213]]–[[Survivors!|222]] [[Back from the Dead|Marvel US #56]]–[[The Primal Scream|61]]
| An overview of the change in format of the UK series and the introduction of 5-page black-and-white strips, and an article by Bove on the colouring techniques used at Marvel UK and Marvel US in the 1980s, and how he emulated them for colourising the UK strips.
|[[January 27|27/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 18
| 04
| Edge of Extinction
| [[Rhythms of Darkness!|Marvel US #67]]–[[On the Edge of Extinction!|75]]
| An overview of [[Unicron/Generation 1#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel's Unicron]] and a spotlight on [[Andrew Wildman]].
|[[February 8|08/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 29
| 05
| The War Within
| [[Transformers: The War Within|The War Within #1–6]] and [[The War Within Preview|preview]]
| Various character design sketches by [[Don Figueroa]] and an article on the making of ''The War Within''.
|[[February 22|22/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 37
| 06
| Escalation
| ''[[Spotlight: Sixshot]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Ultra Magnus]]'' [[The Transformers: Escalation|''Escalation'' #1–6]]
| Sketches by [[E. J. Su]], bios on [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|IDW Ultra Magnus]] & [[Sixshot (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Sixshot]], an article on creating the IDW ''Spotlights'', and an interview with Su. 
|[[March 8|08/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 08
| 07
| Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive
| [[King of the Hill!|Marvel US #27]]–[[Mechanical Difficulties!|28]] [[Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive!|Marvel UK #113]]–[[Fire on High!|120]] "[[Vicious Circle!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]])
| An overview of the Marvel UK Annuals and a bio on [[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Goldbug]].
|[[March 22|22/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 39
| 08
| Hearts of Steel
| [[Hearts of Steel|''Hearts of Steel'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Galvatron]], [[Spotlight: Optimus Prime]], [[Spotlight: Mirage]]''
| Concept art by [[Guido Guidi]] and an article about the creation of ''Hearts of Steel''.
|[[April 5|05/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 10
| 09
| Trial by Fire
| [[The Transformers: Headmasters|Headmasters #1–4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Trial by Fire!|#38]]–[[The Desert Island of Space!|39]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Worlds Apart!|#130]]–[[Kup's Story!|132]]
| A retrospective on the [[The Transformers: Headmasters|''Headmasters'' miniseries]] and an overview of how Marvel UK handled toy marketing.
| [[April 19|19/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 21
| 10
| Regeneration One
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Counterpoint|#80.5]]–[[Loose Ends, Part 5|85]]
| A commentary on [[Loose Ends, Part 1|issue #81]] by Simon Furman, an overview on production leading up to ''Regeneration One'', and several cover sketches.
| [[May 3|03/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 31
| 11
| The Iron Fist
| [[Transformers/G.I. Joe|Transformers/G.I. Joe #1–6]]
| Various character design sketches by Figueroa and an overview of the many [[G.I. Joe crossovers]] across the comics.
| [[May 17|17/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 50
| 12
| Heart of Darkness
| [[The Transformers: Heart of Darkness|''Heart of Darkness'' #1–4]] [[Infestation (IDW)|''The Transformers: Infestation'' #1–2]]
| A post-mortem on "[[Zombie|Zombots]]" across the various comics and a bio on [[Hardhead (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Hardhead]].
| [[May 31|31/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 59
| 13
| Dark Cybertron, Part 1
| [[Dark Dawn: Dark Cybertron Chapter 1|''Dark Cybertron'' one-shot]] [[Little Victories|''More than Meets the Eye'' #22]]–[[No Exit: Dark Cybertron Chapter 6|25]] [[Winners & Losers: Dark Cybertron Chapter 3|''Robots in Disguise'' #23]]–[[Finest Hour: Dark Cybertron Chapter 5|24]]
| A bio on the [[Titan (group)|Titans]] and the making of ''Dark Cybertron'' with [[John Barber]] and James Roberts.
| [[June 14|14/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 01
| 14
| Power Play
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Transformers (issue)|#1]]–[[The Last Stand|4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Man of Iron (issue)|#9]]–[[Raiders of the Last Ark|#21]]
| The alternate ending of [[The Last Stand|Marvel US #4]], unused artwork from [[The Transformers (issue)|issue #1]] by [[Frank Springer]], and an overview of how Marvel UK first approached The Transformers.
| [[June 28|28/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 26
| 15
| War and Peace
| ''[[War and Peace|Transformers: Generation 1 vol. 2]]'' #1–6 and [[Transformers Volume 2 Preview|preview]]
| Top 10 Easter eggs for "[[War and Peace]]" and scorecards listing each faction and their crew members during the arc.
| [[July 12|12/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 35
| 16
| Primacy
| [[The Transformers: Monstrosity|''Monstrosity'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Primacy|''Primacy'' #1–4]]
| An interview with [[Flint Dille]] about his work on the G1 cartoon and his involvement in the ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy|Autocracy]]'' trilogy.
| [[July 26|26/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 64
| 17
| Windblade
| [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 1 #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[Onyx Interface Part One: Signals, Calls, and Marches|#35]]–[[The Onyx Interface Conclusion: The Obliterati|38]]
| A bio for [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]], an overview of her conception, pictures of her ''[[Thrilling 30]]'' toy, and early design sketches by Hasbro.
| [[August 9|09/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 19
| 18
| Perchance to Dream
| [[Out to Lunch!|Marvel UK #240]]–[[...Perchance to Dream|260]] [[Still Life!|Marvel US #76]]–[[Exodus!|77]]
| A Marvel UK ''Classic Heroes Competition!'' page, an overview of Furman's attempts to connect Marvel UK's black-and-white strips to the US stories and how he would eventually have to abandon doing so, an article on the "[[Two Megatrons!]]" confusion, and a bio on [[Thunderwing (G1)#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Thunderwing]].
| [[August 23|23/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 40
| 19
| Maximum Dinobots
| [[The Transformers: Maximum Dinobots|''Maximum Dinobots'' #1–5]] ''[[Spotlight: Grimlock]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Wheelie]]''
| Dinobot sketches by [[Nick Roche]] and [[Klaus Scherwinski]]'s ''Spotlight: Wheelie'' sketchbook.
| [[September 6|06/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 22
| 20
| Natural Selection
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Natural Selection, Part One|#86]]–[[Natural Selection, Part Five|90]] "[[Peace]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]])
| An overview of the [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Marvel ''Generation 2'' comic]] and several cover sketches.
| [[September 20|20/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 46
| 21
| Things Fall Apart
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Things Fall Apart, Part 1: "New Arrivals, Old Encounters"|#2]]–[[Scrapper (issue)|8]]
| Character design sketches by Figueroa, an extract from ''[[Decepticomments]]'' from [[Things Fall Apart, Part 3: "Seasons in Flight"|''The Transformers'' #4]] by [[Mike Costa]], and a bio on [[Swindle (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Swindle]].
| [[October 4|04/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 07
| 22
| The Harder They Die
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Prey!|#96]]–[[Resurrection!|104]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Afterdeath!|#24]]–[[Funeral for a Friend!|26]]
| An analysis of [[the many deaths of Optimus Prime]] in Generation 1.
| [[October 18|18/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 33
| 23
| Megatron: Origin
| [[The Transformers: Megatron Origin|''Megatron: Origin'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Blurr]]'', ''[[Omega's Conundrum|Spotlight: Orion Pax]]''
| A discussion of the production stages on ''Megatron: Origin'' by [[Eric Holmes]].
| [[November 1|01/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 14
| 24
| Space Pirates
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Wrecking Havoc|#172–173]], [[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|#180]]–[[Dry Run!|189]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|#43]] & [[The Man in the Machine!|#51]], "[[Altered Image!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]])
| How Marvel UK incorporated ''[[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|The Big Broadcast of 2006]]'' into the timeline.
| [[November 15|15/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 43
| 25
| All Hail Megatron, Part 1
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #1–8]]
| An article on creating ''All Hail Megatron'', character design sketches by Guidi, and the series pitch by [[Shane McCarthy]].
| [[November 29|29/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 52
| 26
| The Death of Optimus Prime
| [[Chaos (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1 #24, 26, 28, 30, 31]] ''[[Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime|The Death of Optimus Prime]]''
| An interview with [[James Roberts]] on how he worked his way up to become an ongoing writer, and character design sketches by [[Livio Ramondelli]].
| [[December 13|13/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 44
| 27
| All Hail Megatron, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #9–16]]
| A ''Decepticon Roll Call'' with mini-bios, and trivia about ''All Hail Megatron'' [[All Hail Megatron issue 13|#13]]–[[All Hail Megatron issue 16|16]], pointing out notable plot points in the ''Coda'' issues.
| [[December 27|27/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 20
| 28
| End of the Road
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[A Savage Circle|#78]]–[[End of the Road! (US)|80]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Starting Over!|#261]]–[[End of the Road! (UK)|289]]
| Articles about the ends of the US and UK series, including discussion of "[[Another Time & Place]]," the final letters page from #80, and script pages from #80.
| [[January 10|10/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 72
| 29
| The Dying of the Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Dying of the Light: (1) How Bright Their Frail Deeds|#50]]–[[The Dying of the Light Part 6: Do Not Go Gentle|55]]
| The bonus story "[[No Guns, No Swords, No Briefcases]] and essential background material on the [[Decepticon Justice Division|DJD]]
| [[January 24|24/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 75
| 30
| Titans Return, Part 1
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[07:00:00|#1]]–[[The Line Between Us|4]] [[The Last Autobot|''Titans Return'' one-shot]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[White Light|#56]]–[[White Heat|57]] ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Ten to Midnight|#56]]–[[Last Light (issue)|57]]
| "Creating the IDW-Verse" — a two-page article on the beginning of ''More than Meets the Eye'' and ''Robots in Disguise''.
| [[February 7|07/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 60
| 31
| Dark Cybertron, Part 2
| [[The Dead Are Not Enough: Dark Cybertron Chapter 7|''Robots in Disguise'' #25]]–[[Black Planet: Dark Cybertron Chapter 11|27]] [[Burning Bright: Dark Cybertron Chapter 8|''More than Meets the Eye'' #26]]–[[The Becoming: Dark Cybertron Chapter 10|27]] [[...And the Damage Done: Dark Cybertron Finale|''Dark Cybertron: Finale'' one-shot]]
| A blow-by-blow account of Dark Cybertron's hidden secrets
| [[February 21|21/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 71
| 32
| All Hail Optimus
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[All Hail Optimus Part 1: Once Upon a Time on Earth|#50]]–[[All Hail Optimus Part 6: No Fair Fights|55]]
| Background material on the [[Council of Worlds]]
| [[March 7|07/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 02
| 33
| New Order
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The New Order|#5]]–[[The Next Best Thing to Being There!|#10]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Decepticon Dam-Busters!|#29]]–[[The Wrath of Grimlock!|#32]] "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1995]])
| Insights into Marvel UK's efforts to ease the transition between the US and UK material
| [[March 21|21/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 03
| 34
| Dinobot Hunt
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Christmas Breaker!|#41]]–[[Dinobot Hunt!|50]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Brainstorm!|#11]]–[[Prime Time!|#12]]
| A look at the UK [[Christmas]] story tradition
| [[April 4|04/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 23
| 35
| Destiny
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Destiny, Part One|#91]]–[[Destiny, Part Five|95]], [[Less Than Zero|#0]] "[[Destiny of the Dinobots!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| A feature on Regeneration One issue #0 and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[April 18|18/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 30
| 36
| War Within: The Dark Ages
| [[Transformers: War Within: The Dark Ages|''War Within: The Dark Ages'' #1–6]]
| Synopsis of ''[[Transformers: War Within: The Age of Wrath|War Within: the Age of Wrath]]'', including art from unfinished issues.
| [[May 2|02/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 45
| 37
| Last Stand of the Wreckers
| [[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|''Last Stand of the Wreckers'' #1–5]] ''[[Ride-Along|Spotlight: Prowl]]'' [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[...For All Mankind|#1]]
| Interview with [[Nick Roche]], pre-production sketches and story drafts
| [[May 16|16/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 49
| 38
| The Iron Age
| [[The Transformers: Ironhide|''Ironhide'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Space Opera Part 1: The Stars My Destination|#19]]–[[Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix|21 ("Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix" only)]].
| Casey Coller's ''Ironhide'' sketchbook
| [[May 30|30/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 11
| 39
| The Legacy of Unicron
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Headhunt|#133]]–[[Ladies' Night (issue)|138]], "[[What's in a Name?]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]), [[The Legacy of Unicron!|#146–151]] "[[Ark Duty]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Pretender to the Throne!|#40]]–[[Totaled!|41]]
| A feature on the origins of the origin of the Transformers
| [[June 13|13/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 17
| 40
| Matrix Quest
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Bird of Prey!|#62]]–[[All Fall Down|66]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Aspects of Evil!|#223]]–[[A Savage Place!|239]] "[[The Chain Gang!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| Features on the stories behind "Matrix Quest" and, Marvel UK's crossover "[[Deathbringer (Marvel)|Deathbringer]]" saga
| [[June 27|27/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 73
| 41
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 1
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[The Golden Boys|#0]]–[[Headmasters (issue)|7]]
| A creator commentary on issue #0 and an exclusive interview with [[Tom Scioli]]
| [[July 11|11/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 76
| 42
| Titans Return, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]] [[Ping|#5]]–[[If I Know You|11]]
| Article on ''[[Revolution]]''
| [[July 25|25/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 62
| 43
| Earthfall
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Earthfall Part 1: Hello Cruel World|#28]]–[[The Crucible|34]]
| The lowdown on the (new) human cast and rare promotional posters for the [[Dawn of the Autobots]] event
| [[August 8|08/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 04
| 44
| Second Generation
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Shooting Star!|#13]]–[[Plight of the Bumblebee!|16]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Robot Buster!|#59]]–[[Second Generation!|65]] "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]])
| The story behind Marvel UK's Special Teams promotion
| [[August 22|22/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 32
| 45
| Infiltration
| [[The Transformers: Infiltration|''Infiltration'' #0–6]]
| An article on "Creating the IDW-Verse: From the Ground Up", "The Pitch" - Furman's original pitch to IDW for Infiltration, and some sketches by [[E. J. Su]].
| [[September 5|05/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 24
| 46
| The War to End All Wars
| ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]]'' [[The War to End All Wars, Part 1|#96]]–[[The War to End All Wars, Part 5|100]]
| the prose story "[[King of Shadows]]" and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[September 19|19/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 28
| 47
| Worlds Collide Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Worlds Collide|#14]]–[[The_End|18]] [[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye#Issue .238|Dreamwave's ''More than Meets the Eye'' #8]]
| A brief overview of Dreamwave's [[Transformers: Energon (comic)|Energon comic]] and a bonus glossary section dedicated entirely to background material from the Dreamwave G1-verse
| [[October 3|03/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 42
| 48
| Revelation
| ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]: [[Spotlight: Arcee|Arcee]], [[Spotlight: Cyclonus|Cyclonus]], [[Spotlight: Hardhead|Hardhead]], [[Spotlight: Doubledealer|Doubledealer]], [[Spotlight: Sideswipe|Sideswipe]], [[Spotlight: Jazz|Jazz]], [[Spotlight: Metroplex|Metroplex]]''
| "-Ations" retrospective, sketchbook art from Alex Milne and E. J. Su reprinted from individual ''Spotlights''
| [[October 17|17/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 65
| 49
| Combiner Wars
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[First Contact (IDW)|#39]]–[[Now and On Earth|42]] [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2 #1–4]]
| An article on the [[Prime Wars Trilogy]]
| [[October 31|31/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 79
| 50
| Primeless
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Life of Sideswipe|#9]]–[[Primeless, Part 2|12]] ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light|Lost Light]]'' [[Chasing the Infinite|#9]]–[[The Plotters' Club (Part 3): Journey's End|12]]
| A one-page editorial by Simon Furman that mentions the IDW universe's impending end
| [[November 14|14/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 12
| 51
| Cosmic Carnival
| [[Stargazing|Marvel UK #145]], [[Enemy Action!|152–153]], [[Salvage!|160–161]] [[People Power!|Marvel US #42]], [[The Cosmic Carnival|44]]–[[Ca$h and Car-nage!|46]]
| A behind-the-scenes look at the UK-only return of Megatron
| [[November 28|28/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 25
| 52
| Prime Directive
| [[Prime Directive|''Tranformers: Generation 1'' vol. 1 #1–6]] (plus [[Prime Directive Preview|Preview]])
| A two-page article on 'the in-between years' covering the time when no-one had the ''Transformers'' licence for comics.
| [[December 12|12/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 53
| 53
| Liars, A to D
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Liars, A to D Part 1: How to Say Goodbye and Mean It|#1]]–[[Interiors|6]], ''[[The Reluctant Specialist|Spotlight: Trailcutter]]'' and ''[[The Waiting Game|Spotlight: Hoist]]''
| An all-new interview with James Roberts, rare archive material from the dawn of MTMTE, Alex Milne's sketchbook.
| [[December 26|26/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 55
| 54
| Shadowplay
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Rules of Disengagement (issue)|#7]]–[[More than Meets the Eye issue 13|13]], plus the [[Primus: You, Me, and Other Revelations|2012 Annual]]
| The second of a new three-part interview with Roberts, early pages of scripts, and design sketches from Alex Milne.
| [[January 9|09/01]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 13
| 55
| City of Fear
| [[City of Fear!|Marvel UK #164]]–[[Deadly Games!|171]] [[Club Con!|Marvel US #47]]–[[Dark Star|50]] "[[Dreadwing Down!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]]) "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1985]])
| A behind-the scenes look at a sea change moment for the US comic (Furman's takeover as head writer) and a [[Bob Budiansky]] sketchbook.
| [[January 23|23/01]]/2019
|-
| 41
| 56
| Drift
| [[The Transformers: Drift|''The Transformers: Drift'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlight:]] ''[[Spotlight: Drift|Drift]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Blaster]]''
| An article on creating Drift and some design sketches by [[Guido Guidi]].
| [[February 6|06/02]]/2019
|-
| 74
| 57
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[Pax Megatronus|#8]]–[[The War Never Ends|13]]
| No extras, but still has the cover art and intro from Furman present on all issues.
| [[February 20|20/02]]/2019
|-
| 47
| 58
| International Incident
| [[The Transformers: Bumblebee|''The Transformers: Bumblebee'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[International Incident Part 1: "The Land Ironclads"|#9]]–[[International Incident Part 4: "All My Sins Remembered"|12]]
| An interview with [[Zander Cannon]] and breakdowns for pages 1–4 of each issue of the ''Bumblebee'' mini-series.
| [[March 6|06/03]]/2019
|-
| 05
| 59
| The Smelting Pool
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Smelting Pool!|#17]]–[[Showdown!|#20]] "[[Victory!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[In the National Interest|#74–77]]
|Background material on the [[Cybertron (planet)|planet Cybertron]] with map.
| [[March 20|20/03]]/2019
|-
| 54
| 60
| A Better Tomorrow
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[The Autonomy Lesson (issue)|#1]]–[[Interference Patterns|7]]
| A new interview with [[John Barber]]
| [[April 3|03/04]]/2019
|-
| 48
| 61
| Revenge of the Decepticons
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Heart Like a Wheel|#13]]–[[Revenge of the Decepticons Part 5: Enemy Mine|18]] ''[[Spotlight: Megatron]]''
| A ''Spotlight: Megatron'' sketchbook
| [[April 17|17/04]]/2019
|-
| 15
| 62
| Time Wars
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Time Wars|#199–205]] "[[All in the Minds!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Guess Who the Mecannibals Are Having for Dinner?|#52]]–[[The Interplanetary Wrestling Championship!|55]].
| A behind-the-scenes look at Galvatron's storyline
| [[May 1|01/05]]/2019
|-
| 58
| 63
| Shockpoint
|[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]] #[[Plan for Everything|15]]–[[Soundwaves (issue)|22]]
| A 2-page history of IDW Shockwave's history-setting plans.
| [[May 15|15/05]]/2019
|-
| 80
| 64
| Requiem of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[Your First Mistake|#12]] [[The Chosen One|''Till Are Are One'' Annual]] [[Ghost Stories|2017 ''Transformers'' Annual]] ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers|Requiem of the Wreckers]]''
| Wreckers sketchbook and notebook material from [[Nick Roche]].
| [[May 29|29/05]]/2019
|-
| 63
| 65
| Elegant Chaos
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Custom-Made Now - An Elegant Chaos Prologue|#35]]–[[The Frail Gaze|42]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[June 12|12/06]]/2019
|-
| 09
| 66
| Toy Soldiers
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Ancient Relics!|#125 and ''Action Force'' #24–27]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Crater Critters|#29]]–[[Used Autobots|#32]], [[Child%27s_Play_(issue)|#35]]–[[Toy Soldiers!|#37]]
| A one-page behind-the-scenes feature on "[[Man of Iron (issue)|Man of Iron]]" and how it got reprinted in the US comic.
| [[June 26|26/06]]/2019
|-
| 78
| 67
| New Cybertron
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[New Cybertron Part 1: To Walk Among the Chosen|#1]]–[[What It's Really Like|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Kei Zama]]
| [[July 10|10/07]]/2019
|-
| 67
| 68
| Conquerors
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[South of Heaven|#43]]–[[Conquerors Part 4: Perihelion|49]] ''[[An Uneventful Night|Combiner Hunters]]'' one-shot
| Development art by [[Andrew Griffith]]
| [[July 24|24/07]]/2019
|-
| 38
| 69
| Devastation
| ''[[The Transformers: Devastation]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]'' for [[Spotlight: Kup|Kup]], [[Spotlight: Ramjet|Ramjet]] and [[Spotlight: Cliffjumper|Cliffjumper]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 7|07/08]]/2019
|-
| 57
| 70
| Remain in Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Remembrance Day|#14]]–[[Remain in Light 5 of 5: This Calamitous Life|21]] Prose stories "[[Signal to Noise]]" and "[[The Sound of Breaking Glass]]"
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 21|21/08]]/2019
|-
| 77
| 71
| Dissolution
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Dissolution Part 1: Some Other Cybertron|#1]]–[[An Axe to Break the Ice|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Jack Lawrence]]
| [[September 4|04/09]]/2019
|-
| 69
| 72
| Sins of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Sins of the Wreckers|Sins of the Wreckers]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers Holiday Special]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[September 18|18/09]]/2019
|-
| 56
| 73
| City On Fire
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Dinobot Hunt (IDW)|#8]]–[[Before the Dawn|14]] [[Primus: All Good Things|2012 Annual]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[October 2|02/10]]/2019
|-
| 34
| 74
| Autocracy
| ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy]]'' miniseries ''[[The Hunting Party (IDW)|Spotlight: Thundercracker]]''
| A one-page article on ''Autocracy'', including an interview with co-writer [[Chris Metzen]].
| [[October 16|16/10]]/2019
|-
| 70
| 75
| Punishment
| ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Redemption]]'' one-shot ''[[The Transformers: Salvation]]'' one-shot
| An article about the Motion Book Tool app used for the digital version of ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'', a "Brief History of the (IDW) Dinobots", and a [[Livio Ramondelli]] sketchbook.
| [[October 30|30/10]]/2019
|-
| 27
| 76
| Worlds Collide Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_8|#8]]–[[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_13|13]] [[More_than_Meets_the_Eye:_Transformers:_Armada|''More than Meets the Eye: Armada'' ]] (select material)
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 13|13/11]]/2019
|-
| 68
| 77
| Empire of Stone
| ''[[The Transformers: Drift - Empire of Stone|Drift - Empire of Stone]]'' miniseries [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2]] issues 5–7
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 27|27/11]]/2019
|-
| 51
| 78
| Chaos Theory
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Police Action: Prologue|#21 ("Police Action: Prologue" only)]], [[Chaos Theory Part 1|#22–23]], [[Police Action: Part 1|25]], [[Police Action Part 2: Only Forward|27]], [[Police Action Part 3: A Second Chance at Eden|29]] [[The Question|Spotlight: Bumblebee]]
| A one-page article exploring the origins of the "[[Chaos (IDW)|Chaos]]" arc and beyond.
| [[December 11|11/12]]/2019
|-
| 66
| 79
| Speak, Memory
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The One Where They Go to Earth|#43]]–[[Speak, Memory! (Part 2)|49]]
| A one-page article about the [[Scavenger (group)|Scavengers]].
| [[December 25|25/12]]/2019
|-
| 61
| 80
| World, Shut Your Mouth
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[World, Shut Your Mouth Part 1: Towards Peace|#28]]–[[Births, Deaths, and Interventions|34]]
| A page of "Season 2" character posters.
| [[January 8|08/01]]/[[2020]]
|-
| 84
| 81
| The Falling: Part 1
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Dead Come Home, Part 1 (of 2)|#13]]–[[The Falling, Chapter 3: The Ground|17]] ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[Starscream: The Movie (comic)|Annual 2018]]
| A one-page article about the Primes.
| [[January 22|22/01]]/2020
|-
| 90
| 82
| Generation 2: Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[Ghosts|#0]]–[[The Gathering Darkness|6]]
| An article about [[Fleetway]]'s [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Fleetway)|UK ''Generation 2'' comic]], including [small-scale scans of] "[[War Without End (issue)|War Without End]]", their first UK-original ''G2'' strip.
| [[February 5|05/02]]/2020
|-
| 81
| 83
| Revolution
| ''[[Revolution]]'' [[Secret Raiders: A Revolution Prelude|#0]]–[[Valley Forge|5]] ''[[Thundercracker & Buster Save the World|The Transformers]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Informed|Till All Are One]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Nothing Will Ever Be the Same Again!|More than Meets the Eye]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro.
| [[February 19|19/02]]/2020
|-
| 89
| 84
| Realignments
| ''[[G.I. Joe and the Transformers (comic)|G.I. Joe and the Transformers]]'' [[Blood on the Tracks|#1]]–[[...All Fall Down!|4]] [[G.I. Joe (comic)|Marvel's ''G.I. Joe'']] [[Unfoldings!|#138]]–[[Final Transformations|142]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[March 4|04/03]]/2020
|-
| 82
| 85
| Revolutionaries
| ''[[Revolutionaries]]'' [[Crisis Intervention|#1]]–[[Ghost in the Machine (IDW)|8]]
| A two-page timeline of major IDW continuity events from issue #1, and the character profiles also from issue #1.
| [[March 18|18/03]]/2020
|-
| 92
| 86
| Transformers: The Movie
| [[Transformers: The Movie (Marvel comic)|Marvel's adaption]] of [[The Transformers: The Movie|the 1986 animated movie]] [[Transformers: The Animated Movie|IDW's adaption]] of that same movie
| A one-page article about the movie-verse in comics.
| [[April 1|01/04]]/2020
|-
| 83
| 87
| First Strike
| ''[[First Strike]]'' [[First Strike issue 0|#0]]–[[First Strike issue 6|6]] [[Unification Day: Dusk|First Strike: Transformers]] one-shot [[Unification Day: Dawn|First Strike: Optimus Prime]] one-shot
| A one-page "Prelude to...Unicron!" article, preceding the reprint of "[[First Strike issue 6#Coda: "The Signal"|The Signal]]".
| [[April 22|22/04]]/2020
|-
| 95
| 88
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 1
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers'' #1–6]]
| A one-page article about Devil's Due, a two-page article about creating the "Devil's Due-verse" and three pages of [[Mike S. Miller]]'s sketchbook art.
| [[May 13|13/05]]/2020
|-
| 85
| 89
| The Falling, Part 2
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Falling, Interlude: The First Who Was Named|#18]]–[[A Sunrise Dark|24]]
|
| [[June 3|03/06]]/2020
|-
| 93
| 90
| Beast Wars: The Gathering
| [[Transformers, Beast Wars: The Gathering|''Beast Wars: The Gathering'' #1–4]] (assumed)
|
| [[June 17|17/06]]/2020
|-
| 86
| 91
| The Everlasting Voices
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Sardines|#13]]–[[The Everlasting Voices (3): You Are Here|18]] (assumed)
|
| [[July 1|01/07]]/2020
|-
| 96
| 92
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 2
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II'' #1–4]] (assumed)
|
| [[July 15|15/07]]/2020
|-
| 87
| 93
| Crucible
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Crucible (Part 1): A Dance Before Dying|#19]]–[[How To Say Goodbye And Mean It: Part 2|25]] (assumed)
|
| [[July 29|27/07]]/2020
|-
| 91
| 94
| Generation 2, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[New Dawn|#7]]–[[A Rage in Heaven!|12]] (assumed)
|
| [[August 12|12/08]]/2020
|-
| 88
| 95
| Unicron
| ''[[Transformers: Unicron]]'' [[Our Darkest|#0]]–[[Ceremony|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[August 26|26/08]]/2020
|-
| 94
| 96
| Beast Wars: The Ascending
| [[Transformers: Beast Wars: The Ascending|''Beast Wars: The Ascending'' #1–4]] (assumed)
|
| [[September 9|09/09]]/2020
|-
| 97
| 97
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 3
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War'' #1–5]] (assumed)
|
| [[September 23|23/09]]/2020
|-
| 98
| 98
| The World In Your Eyes
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The World In Your Eyes Part One|#1]]–[[Orion Pax: Free Fall|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[October 7|07/10]]/2020
|-
| 99
| 99
| The Cracks Beneath Your Feet
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The Cracks Beneath Your Feet Part One|#7]]–[[Nautica: Home|12]] (assumed)
|
| [[October 21|21/10]]/2020
|-
| 100
| 100
| Constructicons Rising
| ''[[Transformers: Galaxies]]'' [[Constructicons Rising, Part 1|#1]]–[[Wannabee, Part 2|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[November 4|04/11]]/2020
|}

==Notes==
* The free gifts shipped to subscribers with the first five deliveries (each consisting of two isses - except the first, which included a third issue free) were:
** Autobot/Decepticon [[insignia]] keyrings!
** A wallet!
** A tin-plate version of the cover to "[[Dark Star]]", featuring a cosmically-empowered [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]]!
** A mug!
** A pair of metal Autobot/Decepticon insignia bookends!<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20170112033736/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* Before the partwork launched, the second free gift was advertised as an [[Insignia|Autobrand]] belt buckle.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20160914212214/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* The first issue collected "[[Target: 2006]]", and was coincidentally out at newsagents thirty years after the story originally ran.<ref>[http://thesolarpool.weebly.com/transformers-uk227.html Solar Pool]: "The Target: 2006 book is already out... if it doesn’t [finish], Target: 2006 was back on at least some newsagents shelves towards the end of its 30th anniversary week. How cool is that?"</ref>
* The printings of Marvel material aren't really identical to those released by IDW—for instance, issue 1 (volume 6 - confused yet?) includes various Marvel trademarks (such as the superheroes around the edge of the cover to "Heavy Traffic" and the kid wearing a Spider-Man t-shirt in "Decepticon Graffiti") which were painted out of IDW's reprints due to rights issues.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-10#post-14168736 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "The weird thing is, though, these '''aren't''' the IDW versions. The cover to Heavy Traffic has all the Marvel characters around the edge, and the little kid in Decepticon Graffiti is wearing his Spider-Man t-shirt. This stuff was painted out of the IDW trades due to rights issues with Marvel."</ref>

===Errors===
* When the website launched, it accidentally credited [[Andrew Wildman|Andrew ''Wlid''man]].
* Copies of the first issue provided to general retail and initial subscribers had an error on the spine, with the black volume number box at the top being the wrong size.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14249131 ultra badness on the TFW2005 forums]: "I just got an email from Hachette to say they had misprinted the spine art on issue 1. And hey will send a replacement. Hurrah! Im going to have 3 issues!"</ref> Subscribers received free corrected copies, while those who bought theirs at newsagents had to wait for replacements which were included with issue 7.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14256091 Magnus' Mate on TFW2005]: "Incidentally, the 'corrected' #1 will be available to non-subscribers as well, included free with issue #7!"</ref> Hachette were seen giving away error-stricken copies for free at a signing event at a London comic shop.<ref>[http://forums.millarworld.tv/t/the-trades-thread-hardcovers-graphic-novels-and-more/4923/2359 Millarworld forums (dead link)]</ref> This error shouldn't be confused with the change in spine art for the first four issues made between the limited trial run and the mass release,<ref>[http://www.facebook.com/TransformersG1Collection/posts/1533415153338562?comment_id=1533436356669775&reply_comment_id=1533593929987351 Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection on Facebook]</ref> which means that anyone who subscribed to the series from its trial will end up with ''three'' different copies of issue 1.
* The poster included with issue 1 includes a bio for [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]]... which uses an image of [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]].<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13983869 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "Also: the poster that comes with Volume 1 (Target: 2006) shows some small character bios but goofs up the "Jazz" bio by using a picture of Prowl."</ref>
* The trial versions of issues 1 and 2 had the inside cover art swapped: the "Target: 2006" book had artwork for ''Stormbringer'', and vice versa.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13989359 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "On anybody else's copies, is the inside cover art wrong? I've got Stormbringer art inside the Target:2006 book, and Target:2006 art inside the Stormbringer book."</ref>
* A feature in issue 1 states that the Marvel UK comic sold 200,000 copies per week, when really it only sold 100,000 per week ''at its peak''. This error presumably stems from the fact that Marvel (and other publishers at the time) multiplied their circulation figures by 2.5 to calculate their readership, as they estimated that many issues would be shared between friends and siblings.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>
* Hatchette's own masterings of the comics introduce yet more errors. In issue 1, for example, an instance of '[[Skids (G1)|]]' in dialogue is misspelled as 'Skips'.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14277882 Bass X0 on the TFW2005 forums]: "In Decepticon Graffiti, Skids is called Skips on the second page."</ref> This error was not present in IDW's original reprints.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-13#post-14316444 Magnus' Mate on the TFW2005 forums]: "Except the IDW "Transformers Classics" volume 2 with issue #23 in doesn't have this same problem - Skids is still Skids, not Skips! I know there are other problems with them, but this one is on Hachette."</ref>
* The bio for John Paul Bove included in issue 3 (volume 16) was apparently written by himself in the first person, then edited into the third person—one of the sentences written in first person remains!<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-8#post-14101771 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "There is also a half page bio on JP, which was obviously written by himself in the first person, and then edited to be the third person- but they missed one of the first person senetnces and it is still in there!"</ref>
* Some copies of volume 22 had a number erroneously printed on one of the pages.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-20#post-15179844 rodster6 on the TFW2005 forums]: "Got volume 7 today (which I think is issue 22) and there is a weird number printed randomly on one page that shouldn't be there."</ref>
* The first print run for volume 35 had an error where the last two pages of ''Monstrosity'' #11 were swapped with two from "War and Peace" #3.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-18#post-14880721 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "The last two pages of Monstrosity #11 have been swapped with the ones from W&P #3"</ref>
* Many volumes include pages which are stuck together, though this is easy enough for the reader to fix.
* Though some readers may try to convince you otherwise, [[Mister Johnson]] is not an error.

===Reading order===
*Within individual volumes, Marvel material is segregated between US and UK stories—even when those stories were originally interspersed, with connected narratives!
**The material in volume 2 should be ordered US #5-8, UK #29-32, US #9-10. "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" is a Furman-penned comic from [[Transformers Annual 1985|the 1995 annual]], but it's a standalone flashback that isn't referenced until UK #44. "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" (the other comic from the annual) is set in the present day but doesn't match up with the continuity at large—for some reason it's included as backmatter to volume 13, alongside stories released three years later!
**Volume 3 presents UK #41-50 before US #11-12. This should be the other way around!
**The pack-in comic "[[The Special Teams Have Arrived]]" is absent—but of course, it was completely retold in UK #63-65, included here in volume 4.
**The two comic stories from [[Transformers Annual 1986|the 1986 annual]] aren't directly connected to specific issues; "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" doesn't really fit into continuity at all, but certainly takes place after UK #65—which is where the partwork puts it—while "[[Victory!]]" (which explains what happened to the Dinobots between UK #50 and #65) is placed before UK #74-77, another Dinobot-centric story which touches on its events.
**"[[The Gift]]", UK #93's seasonal story by [[James Hill]], is omitted; it should be placed in volume 6 between US #22 and US #23.
**Volume 8 presents US #28 before UK #113-120, despite it having been published afterwards as UK #121-122, which means that [[Goldbug (G1)|Goldbug]] appears before he is created!
**The stories from [[Transformers Annual 1987|the 1987 annual]] are scattered. "[[Vicious Circle!]]" is placed in volume 8 alongside UK #113-120, collectively forming the first "post-movie" storyline. "What's In a Name?" is set during UK #135-136, but for some reason is placed after UK #137-138 in volume 11. "[[Ark Duty]]" is also thrown into volume 11, after UK #146-151... despite chronologically taking place some time before that story.
**The ''[[Action Force]]'' crossover "[[Ancient Relics!]]" is printed in volume 9 before US #29. It was originally printed afterwards, interrupting the two-part story told across issues #29-30, but this change doesn't affect continuity.
**As noted on the [[Earthforce]] page, the black-and-white backup strips from the tail-end of the Marvel UK run didn't really fit with the US material; this collection sidesteps the issue by placing them in a couple of blocks in volumes 19 and 20.
*Presumably as an editorial decision, the partwork omits a large quantity of prose material.
**Marvel UK's prose content is mostly omitted, although it bears mentioning that much of it is tricky to reconcile with the continuity proper anyway. This includes James Hill's four stories from the 1985 and 1986 annuals ("[[Missing in Action]]", "[[Hunted!]]", "[[The Return of the Transformers]]" and "[[State Games]]"), Jamie Delano's "[[The Mission]]" (also from 1986), Furman's in-universe recaps from the 1986 and 1989 annuals ("[[In the Beginning...]]" and "[[The Saga of the Transformers — So Far!]]"), Ian Rimmer's "[[Prime Bomb!]]" (also from 1989), both stories from the 1990 annual ("[[The Quest!]]" and "[[Trigger-Happy!]]"), the 1991 annual's "[[The Magnificent Six!]]", and the 1992 annual's "[[Another Time & Place]]". UK #302's "[[Dreadwind's Xmas!]]" is absent too.
**The various prose stories, profiles and comics first printed with the collected editions of ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers| Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'' are absent.
**Tom Scioli's four-page "[[Black Cybertron]]" prose story from ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe issue 10|#10]] is omitted, along with the creators' commentaries which graced the other issues in the series.

==Covers==
<center><gallery caption="Marvel (US & UK)" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v1.jpg|Vol 1: Power Play
DefinitiveG1Collection v2.jpg|Vol 2: New Order
DefinitiveG1Collection v3.jpg|Vol 3: Dinobot Hunt
DefinitiveG1Collection v4.jpg|Vol 4: Second Generation
DefinitiveG1Collection v5.jpg|Vol 5: The Smelting Pool
DefinitiveG1Collection v6.jpg|Vol 6: Target: 2006
DefinitiveG1Collection v7.jpg|Vol 7: The Harder They Die
DefinitiveG1Collection v8.jpg|Vol 8: Wanted: Galvatron - Dead or Alive
DefinitiveG1Collection v9.jpg|Vol 9: Toy Soldiers
DefinitiveG1Collection v10.jpg|Vol 10: Trial by Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v11.jpg|Vol 11: The Legacy of Unicron
DefinitiveG1Collection v12.jpg|Vol 12: Cosmic Carnival
DefinitiveG1Collection v13.jpg|Vol 13: City of Fear
DefinitiveG1Collection v14.jpg|Vol 14: Space Pirates
DefinitiveG1Collection v15.jpg|Vol 15: Time Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v16.jpg|Vol 16: The Primal Scream
DefinitiveG1Collection v17.jpg|Vol 17: Matrix Quest
DefinitiveG1Collection v18.jpg|Vol 18: Edge of Extinction
DefinitiveG1Collection v19.jpg|Vol 19: Perchance to Dream
DefinitiveG1Collection v20.jpg|Vol 20: End of the Road
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Marvel's Generation 2" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v89.jpg|Vol 89: Realignments
DefinitiveG1Collection v90.jpg|Vol 90: Generation 2 Part 1

</gallery>
<gallery caption="IDW's Regeneration One" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v21.jpg|Vol 21: Regeneration One
DefinitiveG1Collection v22.jpg|Vol 22: Natural Selection
DefinitiveG1Collection v23.jpg|Vol 23: Destiny
DefinitiveG1Collection v24.jpg|Vol 24: The War to End All Wars
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Dreamwave Productions" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v25.jpg|Vol 25: Prime Directive
DefinitiveG1Collection v26.jpg|Vol 26: War and Peace
DefinitiveG1Collection v27.jpg|Vol 27: Worlds Collide Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v28.jpg|Vol 28: Worlds Collide Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v29.jpg|Vol 29: The War Within
DefinitiveG1Collection v30.jpg|Vol 30: War Within: The Dark Ages
DefinitiveG1Collection v31.jpg|Vol 31: The Iron Fist
</gallery>

<gallery caption="2005 IDW continuity" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v32.jpg|Vol 32: Infiltration
DefinitiveG1Collection v33.jpg|Vol 33: Megatron Origin
DefinitiveG1Collection v34.jpg|Vol 34: Autocracy
DefinitiveG1Collection v35.jpg|Vol 35: Primacy
DefinitiveG1Collection v36.jpg|Vol 36: Stormbringer
DefinitiveG1Collection v37.jpg|Vol 37: Escalation
DefinitiveG1Collection v38.jpg|Vol 38: Devastation
DefinitiveG1Collection v39.jpg|Vol 39: Hearts of Steel
DefinitiveG1Collection v40.jpg|Vol 40: Maximum Dinobots
DefinitiveG1Collection v41.jpg|Vol 41: Drift
DefinitiveG1Collection v42.jpg|Vol 42: Revelation
DefinitiveG1Collection v43.jpg|Vol 43: All Hail Megatron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v44.jpg|Vol 44: All Hail Megatron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v45.jpg|Vol 45: Last Stand of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v46.jpg|Vol 46: Things Fall Apart
DefinitiveG1Collection v47.jpg|Vol 47: International Incident
DefinitiveG1Collection v48.jpg|Vol 48: Revenge of the Decepticons
DefinitiveG1Collection v49.jpg|Vol 49: The Iron Age
DefinitiveG1Collection v50.jpg|Vol 50: Heart of Darkness
DefinitiveG1Collection v51.jpg|Vol 51: Chaos Theory
DefinitiveG1Collection v52.jpg|Vol 52: The Death of Optimus Prime
DefinitiveG1Collection v53.jpg|Vol 53: Liars, A to D
DefinitiveG1Collection v54.jpg|Vol 54: A Better Tomorrow
DefinitiveG1Collection v55.jpg|Vol 55: Shadowplay
DefinitiveG1Collection v56.jpg|Vol 56: City On Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v57.jpg|Vol 57: Remain In Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v58.jpg|Vol 58: Shockpoint
DefinitiveG1Collection v59.jpg|Vol 59: Dark Cybertron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v60.jpg|Vol 60: Dark Cybertron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v61.jpg|Vol 61: World Shut Your Mouth
DefinitiveG1Collection v62.jpg|Vol 62: Earthfall
DefinitiveG1Collection v63.jpg|Vol 63: Elegant Chaos
DefinitiveG1Collection v64.jpg|Vol 64: Windblade
DefinitiveG1Collection v65.jpg|Vol 65: Combiner Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v66.jpg|Vol 66: Speak, Memory
DefinitiveG1Collection v67.jpg|Vol 67: Conquerors
DefinitiveG1Collection v68.jpg|Vol 68: Empire of Stone
DefinitiveG1Collection v69.jpg|Vol 69: Sins of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v70.jpg|Vol 70: Punishment
DefinitiveG1Collection v71.jpg|Vol 71: All Hail Optimus
DefinitiveG1Collection v72.jpg|Vol 72: The Dying of the Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v75.jpg|Vol 75: Titans Return, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v76.jpg|Vol 76: Titans Return, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v77.jpg|Vol 77: Dissolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v78.jpg|Vol 78: New Cybertron
DefinitiveG1Collection v79.jpg|Vol 79: Primeless
DefinitiveG1Collection v80.jpg|Vol 80: Requiem of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v81.jpg|Vol 81: Revolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v82.jpg|Vol 82: Revolutionaries
DefinitiveG1Collection v83.jpg|Vol 83: First Strike
DefinitiveG1Collection v84.jpg|Vol 84: The Falling Part 1

</gallery>
<gallery caption="Miscellaneous" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v73.jpg|Vol 73: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v74.jpg|Vol 74: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v92.jpg|Vol 92: Transformers: The Movie
DefinitiveG1Collection v95.jpg|Vol 95: G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 1


</gallery>

''[[:Category:Definitive G1 Collection covers|Extended cover gallery]]''</center>

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[http://www.transformerscollection.com/ Official website]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Definitive G1 Collection}}
[[Category:Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics continuity comic compilations]]
[[Category:Dreamwave Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Generation 1 comic compilations]]

Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection

2020-05-11T11:32:09Z

YoungDoctor: /* Volumes */

[[File:Definitive G1 Collection in full.jpg|thumb|upright=3.05|4/5 of a grand tale.]]

'''Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection''' is a fortnightly 100-volume partwork from [[Hachette]], edited by [[Simon Furman]]. Partworks are a Hachette specialty: a series will be collected out of order (the first ''Definitive'' was volume 6) for commercial purposes but can be collected on your shelf in order with a fancy picture on the collective spines. The collection aims to republish every single "Generation 1" comic ever made, including the original [[Marvel Comics]] run—UK and US—in order for the very first time. Each issue has a special cover and bonus content, and [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)#Fantastic Free Gift.21|Fantastic FREE! Gifts]] are provided for subscribers. Marvel UK strips which were originally printed in black-and-white have been given brand new colours by [[John-Paul Bove]] using emulations of both 1980s American and latter-day Marvel UK techniques.<ref>"A Different Approach to Colour", Vol.16</ref> These include "[[Raiders of the Last Ark]]" in volume 1 and many later strips starting with "[[Race with the Devil]]" in volume 16.

The series was initially announced in September 2016 to contain 60 issues—ending with the ''Dark Cybertron'' crossover—but by the time of its launch in December, it had already been extended to 80 issues, with volume 80 providing some closure in the form of ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One| Till All Are One]]'' and ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers| Requiem of the Wreckers]]''. In 2018, upon the conclusion of IDW's first continuity, fan observed that it would take around ten extra volumes to reprint the entire IDW catalogue—and on the 18th of July 2019, Simon Furman confirmed on Twitter that the collection had been extended by ''twenty'' issues for a total of 100.

Sounds great, right?

Well... not if you live outside the [[United Kingdom]] and [[Ireland]]. The partwork was given a trial-run in parts of the UK before a national release started in early 2017. In August 2017, the subscription also became available in [[Australia]],<ref>[http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?s=438cea1ad48786466241053a45f743ae&t=24685 Ozformers Transformers Club of Australia]: UK Definitive Comic collection from Hachette now in Australia</ref> but became unavailable in July 2018 due to the closure of the Australian distributor. In January 2019, it became available in [[Poland]],<ref>[https://transformers-kolekcja.pl/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIrYTRuabz3wIVl-F3Ch2P7wirEAAYASAAEgJKLvD_BwE Polish version of official site]</ref> with volumes being released in proper chronological order.

Even for those who were able to subscribe, the partwork ended up not being quite as ''definitive'' as advertised. The reprints of Marvel US material were taken from IDW's ''Transformers Classic'' 'remasters', complete with newly-introduced typos and haphazard attempts to 'fix' errors. As such, many of the minor edits made to those stories for their original UK printings (to better jive with Furman's expanded continuity) are absent.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-9#post-14167234 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "In order to smooth over the continuity cracks between the UK and US stories, the US books were usually edited (US#16-24 were especially affected) for their UK printing. But rather than the UK edits of the American stories, we get the familiar US versions. <nowiki>[...]</nowiki> Oh, and on page 214, there's a factual error as well, when it states that Transformers UK sold 200,000 copies per week. That's actually completely false. It actually sold 100,000 copies per week at its peak. That said, each individual comic sold would tend to be read by a number of people, as kids lent or gave their comics to siblings or school friends. It was calculated that, on average, each comic sold would be read by two-point-five people. Marvel (and other comic publishers such as Fleetway or IPC) would therefore take the ''actual'' circulation figures and apply this 2.5 multiplier to give a total readership that did exceed two hundred thousand on occasion. So whilst the ''readership'' was arguably 250K-plus, the actual ''number of copies'' sold was nowhere near that figure.</ref> Furthermore, thanks to the dreadfully-flat colouring of the ''Classics'' reprints, John Paul Bove's newly-coloured versions of the black-and-white UK strips—intended to match surrounding US stories—end up looking out of place anyway!

Cover galleries include the covers for both the US and UK stories, but ''not'' the UK-exclusive covers for US stories. Additionally, it's apparent that Hatchette mapped out the partwork with the intent of being the first company to reprint the latter-day Dreamwave material such as [[Transformers: Generation 1 (Dreamwave)|the Sunstorm arc]] and ''[[Transformers: Micromasters| Micromasters]]'', in volumes 27 and 28—but those volumes wound up containing issues from Dreamwave's ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)| Armada]]'' comic, which merely guest-starred G1 characters and seem very out of place in a "Definitive ''G1'' Collection". Presumably, this late change occurred for the same reason those stories have never been reprinted in the first place—nobody's sure whether the creative teams were actually ''paid'' for their work.

To make matters worse, the order in which much of the material is presented—particularly with IDW's stories—can often only be described as ''baffling''. Furthermore, many issues were first printed with glaring errors, and Hatchette's own notoriously-bad customer service made obtaining corrected replacements a nightmare for many subscribers.

==Volumes==
{{note|Each volume contains cover art from the original issues, plus a new introduction by Simon Furman. The bonus features below are in addition to these.}}
{| class="wikitable sortable"
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Vol.
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Issue
! scope="col" style="width: 125px;" | Title
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Contents
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Bonus Features
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Release date
|-
| 06
| 01
|Target: 2006
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Target: 2006|#78–83]] "[[Cybertron: The Middle Years!]]" Marvel UK [[Target: 2006|#84–88]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Aerialbots over America!|#21]]–[[Decepticon Graffiti!|23]]
| A guide to the launch of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' in the UK and its marketing purposes for Marvel UK, a "Meet... The [[Wrecker]]s" feature, a behind-the-scenes look at the development of "Target: 2006", and a spotlight on [[Geoff Senior]].
|[[December 30|30/12]]/[[2016]]
|-
| 36
| 02
| Stormbringer
| ''[[Spotlight: Shockwave]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Soundwave]]'' [[The Transformers: Stormbringer|''Stormbringer'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Nightbeat]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Hot Rod]]''
| An article on the beginning of IDW-verse production and several sketches by Figueroa.
|[[January 11|11/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 16
| 03
| The Primal Scream
| [[Cold Comfort and Joy!|Marvel UK #198]], [[The Fall and Rise of the Decepticon Empire.|#213]]–[[Survivors!|222]] [[Back from the Dead|Marvel US #56]]–[[The Primal Scream|61]]
| An overview of the change in format of the UK series and the introduction of 5-page black-and-white strips, and an article by Bove on the colouring techniques used at Marvel UK and Marvel US in the 1980s, and how he emulated them for colourising the UK strips.
|[[January 27|27/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 18
| 04
| Edge of Extinction
| [[Rhythms of Darkness!|Marvel US #67]]–[[On the Edge of Extinction!|75]]
| An overview of [[Unicron/Generation 1#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel's Unicron]] and a spotlight on [[Andrew Wildman]].
|[[February 8|08/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 29
| 05
| The War Within
| [[Transformers: The War Within|The War Within #1–6]] and [[The War Within Preview|preview]]
| Various character design sketches by [[Don Figueroa]] and an article on the making of ''The War Within''.
|[[February 22|22/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 37
| 06
| Escalation
| ''[[Spotlight: Sixshot]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Ultra Magnus]]'' [[The Transformers: Escalation|''Escalation'' #1–6]]
| Sketches by [[E. J. Su]], bios on [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|IDW Ultra Magnus]] & [[Sixshot (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Sixshot]], an article on creating the IDW ''Spotlights'', and an interview with Su. 
|[[March 8|08/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 08
| 07
| Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive
| [[King of the Hill!|Marvel US #27]]–[[Mechanical Difficulties!|28]] [[Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive!|Marvel UK #113]]–[[Fire on High!|120]] "[[Vicious Circle!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]])
| An overview of the Marvel UK Annuals and a bio on [[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Goldbug]].
|[[March 22|22/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 39
| 08
| Hearts of Steel
| [[Hearts of Steel|''Hearts of Steel'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Galvatron]], [[Spotlight: Optimus Prime]], [[Spotlight: Mirage]]''
| Concept art by [[Guido Guidi]] and an article about the creation of ''Hearts of Steel''.
|[[April 5|05/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 10
| 09
| Trial by Fire
| [[The Transformers: Headmasters|Headmasters #1–4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Trial by Fire!|#38]]–[[The Desert Island of Space!|39]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Worlds Apart!|#130]]–[[Kup's Story!|132]]
| A retrospective on the [[The Transformers: Headmasters|''Headmasters'' miniseries]] and an overview of how Marvel UK handled toy marketing.
| [[April 19|19/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 21
| 10
| Regeneration One
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Counterpoint|#80.5]]–[[Loose Ends, Part 5|85]]
| A commentary on [[Loose Ends, Part 1|issue #81]] by Simon Furman, an overview on production leading up to ''Regeneration One'', and several cover sketches.
| [[May 3|03/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 31
| 11
| The Iron Fist
| [[Transformers/G.I. Joe|Transformers/G.I. Joe #1–6]]
| Various character design sketches by Figueroa and an overview of the many [[G.I. Joe crossovers]] across the comics.
| [[May 17|17/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 50
| 12
| Heart of Darkness
| [[Infestation (IDW)|''The Transformers: Infestation'' #1–2]] [[The Transformers: Heart of Darkness|''Heart of Darkness'' #1–4]]
| A post-mortem on "[[Zombie|Zombots]]" across the various comics and a bio on [[Hardhead (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Hardhead]].
| [[May 31|31/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 59
| 13
| Dark Cybertron, Part 1
| [[Dark Dawn: Dark Cybertron Chapter 1|''Dark Cybertron'' one-shot]] [[Little Victories|''More than Meets the Eye'' #22]]–[[No Exit: Dark Cybertron Chapter 6|25]] [[Winners & Losers: Dark Cybertron Chapter 3|''Robots in Disguise'' #23]]–[[Finest Hour: Dark Cybertron Chapter 5|24]]
| A bio on the [[Titan (group)|Titans]] and the making of ''Dark Cybertron'' with [[John Barber]] and James Roberts.
| [[June 14|14/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 01
| 14
| Power Play
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Transformers (issue)|#1]]–[[The Last Stand|4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Man of Iron (issue)|#9]]–[[Raiders of the Last Ark|#21]]
| The alternate ending of [[The Last Stand|Marvel US #4]], unused artwork from [[The Transformers (issue)|issue #1]] by [[Frank Springer]], and an overview of how Marvel UK first approached The Transformers.
| [[June 28|28/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 26
| 15
| War and Peace
| ''[[War and Peace|Transformers: Generation 1 vol. 2]]'' #1–6 and [[Transformers Volume 2 Preview|preview]]
| Top 10 Easter eggs for "[[War and Peace]]" and scorecards listing each faction and their crew members during the arc.
| [[July 12|12/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 35
| 16
| Primacy
| [[The Transformers: Monstrosity|''Monstrosity'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Primacy|''Primacy'' #1–4]]
| An interview with [[Flint Dille]] about his work on the G1 cartoon and his involvement in the ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy|Autocracy]]'' trilogy.
| [[July 26|26/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 64
| 17
| Windblade
| [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 1 #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[Onyx Interface Part One: Signals, Calls, and Marches|#35]]–[[The Onyx Interface Conclusion: The Obliterati|38]]
| A bio for [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]], an overview of her conception, pictures of her ''[[Thrilling 30]]'' toy, and early design sketches by Hasbro.
| [[August 9|09/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 19
| 18
| Perchance to Dream
| [[Out to Lunch!|Marvel UK #240]]–[[...Perchance to Dream|260]] [[Still Life!|Marvel US #76]]–[[Exodus!|77]]
| A Marvel UK ''Classic Heroes Competition!'' page, an overview of Furman's attempts to connect Marvel UK's black-and-white strips to the US stories and how he would eventually have to abandon doing so, an article on the "[[Two Megatrons!]]" confusion, and a bio on [[Thunderwing (G1)#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Thunderwing]].
| [[August 23|23/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 40
| 19
| Maximum Dinobots
| [[The Transformers: Maximum Dinobots|''Maximum Dinobots'' #1–5]] ''[[Spotlight: Grimlock]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Wheelie]]''
| Dinobot sketches by [[Nick Roche]] and [[Klaus Scherwinski]]'s ''Spotlight: Wheelie'' sketchbook.
| [[September 6|06/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 22
| 20
| Natural Selection
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Natural Selection, Part One|#86]]–[[Natural Selection, Part Five|90]] "[[Peace]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]])
| An overview of the [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Marvel ''Generation 2'' comic]] and several cover sketches.
| [[September 20|20/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 46
| 21
| Things Fall Apart
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Things Fall Apart, Part 1: "New Arrivals, Old Encounters"|#2]]–[[Scrapper (issue)|8]]
| Character design sketches by Figueroa, an extract from ''[[Decepticomments]]'' from [[Things Fall Apart, Part 3: "Seasons in Flight"|''The Transformers'' #4]] by [[Mike Costa]], and a bio on [[Swindle (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Swindle]].
| [[October 4|04/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 07
| 22
| The Harder They Die
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Prey!|#96]]–[[Resurrection!|104]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Afterdeath!|#24]]–[[Funeral for a Friend!|26]]
| An analysis of [[the many deaths of Optimus Prime]] in Generation 1.
| [[October 18|18/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 33
| 23
| Megatron: Origin
| [[The Transformers: Megatron Origin|''Megatron: Origin'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Blurr]]'', ''[[Omega's Conundrum|Spotlight: Orion Pax]]''
| A discussion of the production stages on ''Megatron: Origin'' by [[Eric Holmes]].
| [[November 1|01/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 14
| 24
| Space Pirates
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Wrecking Havoc|#172–173]], [[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|#180]]–[[Dry Run!|189]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|#43]] & [[The Man in the Machine!|#51]], "[[Altered Image!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]])
| How Marvel UK incorporated ''[[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|The Big Broadcast of 2006]]'' into the timeline.
| [[November 15|15/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 43
| 25
| All Hail Megatron, Part 1
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #1–8]]
| An article on creating ''All Hail Megatron'', character design sketches by Guidi, and the series pitch by [[Shane McCarthy]].
| [[November 29|29/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 52
| 26
| The Death of Optimus Prime
| [[Chaos (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1 #24, 26, 28, 30, 31]] ''[[Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime|The Death of Optimus Prime]]''
| An interview with [[James Roberts]] on how he worked his way up to become an ongoing writer, and character design sketches by [[Livio Ramondelli]].
| [[December 13|13/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 44
| 27
| All Hail Megatron, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #9–16]]
| A ''Decepticon Roll Call'' with mini-bios, and trivia about ''All Hail Megatron'' [[All Hail Megatron issue 13|#13]]–[[All Hail Megatron issue 16|16]], pointing out notable plot points in the ''Coda'' issues.
| [[December 27|27/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 20
| 28
| End of the Road
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Starting Over!|#261]]–[[End of the Road! (UK)|289]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[A Savage Circle|#78]]–[[End of the Road! (US)|80]]
| Articles about the ends of the US and UK series, including discussion of "[[Another Time & Place]]," the final letters page from #80, and script pages from #80.
| [[January 10|10/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 72
| 29
| The Dying of the Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Dying of the Light: (1) How Bright Their Frail Deeds|#50]]–[[The Dying of the Light Part 6: Do Not Go Gentle|55]]
| The bonus story "[[No Guns, No Swords, No Briefcases]] and essential background material on the [[Decepticon Justice Division|DJD]]
| [[January 24|24/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 75
| 30
| Titans Return, Part 1
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[07:00:00|#1]]–[[The Line Between Us|4]] [[The Last Autobot|''Titans Return'' one-shot]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[White Light|#56]]–[[White Heat|57]] ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Ten to Midnight|#56]]–[[Last Light (issue)|57]]
| "Creating the IDW-Verse" — a two-page article on the beginning of ''More than Meets the Eye'' and ''Robots in Disguise''.
| [[February 7|07/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 60
| 31
| Dark Cybertron, Part 2
| [[The Dead Are Not Enough: Dark Cybertron Chapter 7|''Robots in Disguise'' #25]]–[[Black Planet: Dark Cybertron Chapter 11|27]] [[Burning Bright: Dark Cybertron Chapter 8|''More than Meets the Eye'' #26]]–[[The Becoming: Dark Cybertron Chapter 10|27]] [[...And the Damage Done: Dark Cybertron Finale|''Dark Cybertron: Finale'' one-shot]]
| A blow-by-blow account of Dark Cybertron's hidden secrets
| [[February 21|21/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 71
| 32
| All Hail Optimus
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[All Hail Optimus Part 1: Once Upon a Time on Earth|#50]]–[[All Hail Optimus Part 6: No Fair Fights|55]]
| Background material on the [[Council of Worlds]]
| [[March 7|07/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 02
| 33
| New Order
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The New Order|#5]]–[[The Next Best Thing to Being There!|#10]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Decepticon Dam-Busters!|#29]]–[[The Wrath of Grimlock!|#32]] "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1995]])
| Insights into Marvel UK's efforts to ease the transition between the US and UK material
| [[March 21|21/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 03
| 34
| Dinobot Hunt
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Christmas Breaker!|#41]]–[[Dinobot Hunt!|50]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Brainstorm!|#11]]–[[Prime Time!|#12]]
| A look at the UK [[Christmas]] story tradition
| [[April 4|04/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 23
| 35
| Destiny
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Destiny, Part One|#91]]–[[Destiny, Part Five|95]], [[Less Than Zero|#0]] "[[Destiny of the Dinobots!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| A feature on Regeneration One issue #0 and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[April 18|18/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 30
| 36
| War Within: The Dark Ages
| [[Transformers: War Within: The Dark Ages|''War Within: The Dark Ages'' #1–6]]
| Synopsis of ''[[Transformers: War Within: The Age of Wrath|War Within: the Age of Wrath]]'', including art from unfinished issues.
| [[May 2|02/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 45
| 37
| Last Stand of the Wreckers
| [[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|''Last Stand of the Wreckers'' #1–5]] ''[[Ride-Along|Spotlight: Prowl]]'' [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[...For All Mankind|#1]]
| Interview with [[Nick Roche]], pre-production sketches and story drafts
| [[May 16|16/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 49
| 38
| The Iron Age
| [[The Transformers: Ironhide|''Ironhide'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Space Opera Part 1: The Stars My Destination|#19]]–[[Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix|21 ("Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix" only)]].
| Casey Coller's ''Ironhide'' sketchbook
| [[May 30|30/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 11
| 39
| The Legacy of Unicron
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Headhunt|#133]]–[[Ladies' Night (issue)|138]], "[[What's in a Name?]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]), [[The Legacy of Unicron!|#146–151]] "[[Ark Duty]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Pretender to the Throne!|#40]]–[[Totaled!|41]]
| A feature on the origins of the origin of the Transformers
| [[June 13|13/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 17
| 40
| Matrix Quest
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Bird of Prey!|#62]]–[[All Fall Down|66]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Aspects of Evil!|#223]]–[[A Savage Place!|239]] "[[The Chain Gang!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| Features on the stories behind "Matrix Quest" and, Marvel UK's crossover "[[Deathbringer (Marvel)|Deathbringer]]" saga
| [[June 27|27/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 73
| 41
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 1
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[The Golden Boys|#0]]–[[Headmasters (issue)|7]]
| A creator commentary on issue #0 and an exclusive interview with [[Tom Scioli]]
| [[July 11|11/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 76
| 42
| Titans Return, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]] [[Ping|#5]]–[[If I Know You|11]]
| Article on ''[[Revolution]]''
| [[July 25|25/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 62
| 43
| Earthfall
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Earthfall Part 1: Hello Cruel World|#28]]–[[The Crucible|34]]
| The lowdown on the (new) human cast and rare promotional posters for the [[Dawn of the Autobots]] event
| [[August 8|08/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 04
| 44
| Second Generation
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Shooting Star!|#13]]–[[Plight of the Bumblebee!|16]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Robot Buster!|#59]]–[[Second Generation!|65]] "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]])
| The story behind Marvel UK's Special Teams promotion
| [[August 22|22/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 32
| 45
| Infiltration
| [[The Transformers: Infiltration|''Infiltration'' #0–6]]
| An article on "Creating the IDW-Verse: From the Ground Up", "The Pitch" - Furman's original pitch to IDW for Infiltration, and some sketches by [[E. J. Su]].
| [[September 5|05/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 24
| 46
| The War to End All Wars
| ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]]'' [[The War to End All Wars, Part 1|#96]]–[[The War to End All Wars, Part 5|100]]
| the prose story "[[King of Shadows]]" and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[September 19|19/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 28
| 47
| Worlds Collide Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Worlds Collide|#14]]–[[The_End|18]] [[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye#Issue .238|Dreamwave's ''More than Meets the Eye'' #8]]
| A brief overview of Dreamwave's [[Transformers: Energon (comic)|Energon comic]] and a bonus glossary section dedicated entirely to background material from the Dreamwave G1-verse
| [[October 3|03/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 42
| 48
| Revelation
| ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]: [[Spotlight: Arcee|Arcee]], [[Spotlight: Cyclonus|Cyclonus]], [[Spotlight: Hardhead|Hardhead]], [[Spotlight: Doubledealer|Doubledealer]], [[Spotlight: Sideswipe|Sideswipe]], [[Spotlight: Jazz|Jazz]], [[Spotlight: Metroplex|Metroplex]]''
| "-Ations" retrospective, sketchbook art from Alex Milne and E. J. Su reprinted from individual ''Spotlights''
| [[October 17|17/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 65
| 49
| Combiner Wars
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[First Contact (IDW)|#39]]–[[Now and On Earth|42]] [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2 #1–4]]
| An article on the [[Prime Wars Trilogy]]
| [[October 31|31/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 79
| 50
| Primeless
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Life of Sideswipe|#9]]–[[Primeless, Part 2|12]] ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light|Lost Light]]'' [[Chasing the Infinite|#9]]–[[The Plotters' Club (Part 3): Journey's End|12]]
| A one-page editorial by Simon Furman that mentions the IDW universe's impending end
| [[November 14|14/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 12
| 51
| Cosmic Carnival
| [[Stargazing|Marvel UK #145]], [[Enemy Action!|152–153]], [[Salvage!|160–161]] [[People Power!|Marvel US #42]], [[The Cosmic Carnival|44]]–[[Ca$h and Car-nage!|46]]
| A behind-the-scenes look at the UK-only return of Megatron
| [[November 28|28/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 25
| 52
| Prime Directive
| [[Prime Directive|''Tranformers: Generation 1'' vol. 1 #1–6]] (plus [[Prime Directive Preview|Preview]])
| A two-page article on 'the in-between years' covering the time when no-one had the ''Transformers'' licence for comics.
| [[December 12|12/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 53
| 53
| Liars, A to D
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Liars, A to D Part 1: How to Say Goodbye and Mean It|#1]]–[[Interiors|6]], ''[[The Reluctant Specialist|Spotlight: Trailcutter]]'' and ''[[The Waiting Game|Spotlight: Hoist]]''
| An all-new interview with James Roberts, rare archive material from the dawn of MTMTE, Alex Milne's sketchbook.
| [[December 26|26/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 55
| 54
| Shadowplay
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Rules of Disengagement (issue)|#7]]–[[More than Meets the Eye issue 13|13]], plus the [[Primus: You, Me, and Other Revelations|2012 Annual]]
| The second of a new three-part interview with Roberts, early pages of scripts, and design sketches from Alex Milne.
| [[January 9|09/01]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 13
| 55
| City of Fear
| [[City of Fear!|Marvel UK #164]]–[[Deadly Games!|171]] [[Club Con!|Marvel US #47]]–[[Dark Star|50]] "[[Dreadwing Down!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]]) "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1985]])
| A behind-the scenes look at a sea change moment for the US comic (Furman's takeover as head writer) and a [[Bob Budiansky]] sketchbook.
| [[January 23|23/01]]/2019
|-
| 41
| 56
| Drift
| [[The Transformers: Drift|''The Transformers: Drift'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlight:]] ''[[Spotlight: Drift|Drift]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Blaster]]''
| An article on creating Drift and some design sketches by [[Guido Guidi]].
| [[February 6|06/02]]/2019
|-
| 74
| 57
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[Pax Megatronus|#8]]–[[The War Never Ends|13]]
| No extras, but still has the cover art and intro from Furman present on all issues.
| [[February 20|20/02]]/2019
|-
| 47
| 58
| International Incident
| [[The Transformers: Bumblebee|''The Transformers: Bumblebee'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[International Incident Part 1: "The Land Ironclads"|#9]]–[[International Incident Part 4: "All My Sins Remembered"|12]]
| An interview with [[Zander Cannon]] and breakdowns for pages 1–4 of each issue of the ''Bumblebee'' mini-series.
| [[March 6|06/03]]/2019
|-
| 05
| 59
| The Smelting Pool
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Smelting Pool!|#17]]–[[Showdown!|#20]] "[[Victory!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[In the National Interest|#74–77]]
|Background material on the [[Cybertron (planet)|planet Cybertron]] with map.
| [[March 20|20/03]]/2019
|-
| 54
| 60
| A Better Tomorrow
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[The Autonomy Lesson (issue)|#1]]–[[Interference Patterns|7]]
| A new interview with [[John Barber]]
| [[April 3|03/04]]/2019
|-
| 48
| 61
| Revenge of the Decepticons
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Heart Like a Wheel|#13]]–[[Revenge of the Decepticons Part 5: Enemy Mine|18]] ''[[Spotlight: Megatron]]''
| A ''Spotlight: Megatron'' sketchbook
| [[April 17|17/04]]/2019
|-
| 15
| 62
| Time Wars
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Time Wars|#199–205]] "[[All in the Minds!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Guess Who the Mecannibals Are Having for Dinner?|#52]]–[[The Interplanetary Wrestling Championship!|55]].
| A behind-the-scenes look at Galvatron's storyline
| [[May 1|01/05]]/2019
|-
| 58
| 63
| Shockpoint
|[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]] #[[Plan for Everything|15]]–[[Soundwaves (issue)|22]]
| A 2-page history of IDW Shockwave's history-setting plans.
| [[May 15|15/05]]/2019
|-
| 80
| 64
| Requiem of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[Your First Mistake|#12]] [[The Chosen One|''Till Are Are One'' Annual]] [[Ghost Stories|2017 ''Transformers'' Annual]] ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers|Requiem of the Wreckers]]''
| Wreckers sketchbook and notebook material from [[Nick Roche]].
| [[May 29|29/05]]/2019
|-
| 63
| 65
| Elegant Chaos
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Custom-Made Now - An Elegant Chaos Prologue|#35]]–[[The Frail Gaze|42]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[June 12|12/06]]/2019
|-
| 09
| 66
| Toy Soldiers
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Crater Critters|#29]]–[[Used Autobots|#32]], [[Child%27s_Play_(issue)|#35]]–[[Toy Soldiers!|#37]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Ancient Relics!|#125 and ''Action Force'' #24–27]]
| A one-page behind-the-scenes feature on "[[Man of Iron (issue)|Man of Iron]]" and how it got reprinted in the US comic.
| [[June 26|26/06]]/2019
|-
| 78
| 67
| New Cybertron
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[New Cybertron Part 1: To Walk Among the Chosen|#1]]–[[What It's Really Like|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Kei Zama]]
| [[July 10|10/07]]/2019
|-
| 67
| 68
| Conquerors
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[South of Heaven|#43]]–[[Conquerors Part 4: Perihelion|49]] ''[[An Uneventful Night|Combiner Hunters]]'' one-shot
| Development art by [[Andrew Griffith]]
| [[July 24|24/07]]/2019
|-
| 38
| 69
| Devastation
| ''[[The Transformers: Devastation]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]'' for [[Spotlight: Kup|Kup]], [[Spotlight: Ramjet|Ramjet]] and [[Spotlight: Cliffjumper|Cliffjumper]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 7|07/08]]/2019
|-
| 57
| 70
| Remain in Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Remembrance Day|#14]]–[[Remain in Light 5 of 5: This Calamitous Life|21]] Prose stories "[[Signal to Noise]]" and "[[The Sound of Breaking Glass]]"
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 21|21/08]]/2019
|-
| 77
| 71
| Dissolution
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Dissolution Part 1: Some Other Cybertron|#1]]–[[An Axe to Break the Ice|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Jack Lawrence]]
| [[September 4|04/09]]/2019
|-
| 69
| 72
| Sins of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Sins of the Wreckers|Sins of the Wreckers]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers Holiday Special]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[September 18|18/09]]/2019
|-
| 56
| 73
| City On Fire
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Dinobot Hunt (IDW)|#8]]–[[Before the Dawn|14]] [[Primus: All Good Things|2012 Annual]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[October 2|02/10]]/2019
|-
| 34
| 74
| Autocracy
| ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy]]'' miniseries ''[[The Hunting Party (IDW)|Spotlight: Thundercracker]]''
| A one-page article on ''Autocracy'', including an interview with co-writer [[Chris Metzen]].
| [[October 16|16/10]]/2019
|-
| 70
| 75
| Punishment
| ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Redemption]]'' one-shot ''[[The Transformers: Salvation]]'' one-shot
| An article about the Motion Book Tool app used for the digital version of ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'', a "Brief History of the (IDW) Dinobots", and a [[Livio Ramondelli]] sketchbook.
| [[October 30|30/10]]/2019
|-
| 27
| 76
| Worlds Collide Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_8|#8]]–[[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_13|13]] [[More_than_Meets_the_Eye:_Transformers:_Armada|''More than Meets the Eye: Armada'' ]] (select material)
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 13|13/11]]/2019
|-
| 68
| 77
| Empire of Stone
| ''[[The Transformers: Drift - Empire of Stone|Drift - Empire of Stone]]'' miniseries [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2]] issues 5–7
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 27|27/11]]/2019
|-
| 51
| 78
| Chaos Theory
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Police Action: Prologue|#21 ("Police Action: Prologue" only)]], [[Chaos Theory Part 1|#22–23]], [[Police Action: Part 1|25]], [[Police Action Part 2: Only Forward|27]], [[Police Action Part 3: A Second Chance at Eden|29]] [[The Question|Spotlight: Bumblebee]]
| A one-page article exploring the origins of the "[[Chaos (IDW)|Chaos]]" arc and beyond.
| [[December 11|11/12]]/2019
|-
| 66
| 79
| Speak, Memory
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The One Where They Go to Earth|#43]]–[[Speak, Memory! (Part 2)|49]]
| A one-page article about the [[Scavenger (group)|Scavengers]].
| [[December 25|25/12]]/2019
|-
| 61
| 80
| World, Shut Your Mouth
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[World, Shut Your Mouth Part 1: Towards Peace|#28]]–[[Births, Deaths, and Interventions|34]]
| A page of "Season 2" character posters.
| [[January 8|08/01]]/[[2020]]
|-
| 84
| 81
| The Falling: Part 1
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Dead Come Home, Part 1 (of 2)|#13]]–[[The Falling, Chapter 3: The Ground|17]] ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[Starscream: The Movie (comic)|Annual 2018]]
| A one-page article about the Primes.
| [[January 22|22/01]]/2020
|-
| 90
| 82
| Generation 2: Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[Ghosts|#0]]–[[The Gathering Darkness|6]]
| An article about [[Fleetway]]'s [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Fleetway)|UK ''Generation 2'' comic]], including [small-scale scans of] "[[War Without End (issue)|War Without End]]", their first UK-original ''G2'' strip.
| [[February 5|05/02]]/2020
|-
| 81
| 83
| Revolution
| ''[[Revolution]]'' [[Secret Raiders: A Revolution Prelude|#0]]–[[Valley Forge|5]] ''[[Thundercracker & Buster Save the World|The Transformers]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Informed|Till All Are One]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Nothing Will Ever Be the Same Again!|More than Meets the Eye]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro.
| [[February 19|19/02]]/2020
|-
| 89
| 84
| Realignments
| ''[[G.I. Joe and the Transformers (comic)|G.I. Joe and the Transformers]]'' [[Blood on the Tracks|#1]]–[[...All Fall Down!|4]] [[G.I. Joe (comic)|Marvel's ''G.I. Joe'']] [[Unfoldings!|#138]]–[[Final Transformations|142]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[March 4|04/03]]/2020
|-
| 82
| 85
| Revolutionaries
| ''[[Revolutionaries]]'' [[Crisis Intervention|#1]]–[[Ghost in the Machine (IDW)|8]]
| A two-page timeline of major IDW continuity events from issue #1, and the character profiles also from issue #1.
| [[March 18|18/03]]/2020
|-
| 92
| 86
| Transformers: The Movie
| [[Transformers: The Movie (Marvel comic)|Marvel's adaption]] of [[The Transformers: The Movie|the 1986 animated movie]] [[Transformers: The Animated Movie|IDW's adaption]] of that same movie
| A one-page article about the movie-verse in comics.
| [[April 1|01/04]]/2020
|-
| 83
| 87
| First Strike
| ''[[First Strike]]'' [[First Strike issue 0|#0]]–[[First Strike issue 6|6]] [[Unification Day: Dusk|First Strike: Transformers]] one-shot [[Unification Day: Dawn|First Strike: Optimus Prime]] one-shot
| A one-page "Prelude to...Unicron!" article, preceding the reprint of "[[First Strike issue 6#Coda: "The Signal"|The Signal]]".
| [[April 22|22/04]]/2020
|-
| 95
| 88
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 1
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers'' #1–6]]
|
| [[May 13|13/05]]/2020
|-
| 85
| 89
| The Falling, Part 2
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Falling, Interlude: The First Who Was Named|#18]]–[[Post|25]] (assumed)
|
| [[June 3|03/06]]/2020
|-
| 93
| 90
| Beast Wars: The Gathering
| [[Transformers, Beast Wars: The Gathering|''Beast Wars: The Gathering'' #1–4]] (assumed)
|
| [[June 17|17/06]]/2020
|-
| 86
| 91
| The Everlasting Voices
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Sardines|#13]]–[[The Everlasting Voices (3): You Are Here|18]] (assumed)
|
| [[July 1|01/07]]/2020
|-
| 96
| 92
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 2
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II'' #1–4]] (assumed)
|
| [[July 15|15/07]]/2020
|-
| 87
| 93
| Crucible
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Crucible (Part 1): A Dance Before Dying|#19]]–[[How To Say Goodbye And Mean It: Part 2|25]] (assumed)
|
| [[July 29|27/07]]/2020
|-
| 91
| 94
| Generation 2, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[New Dawn|#7]]–[[A Rage in Heaven!|12]] (assumed)
|
| [[August 12|12/08]]/2020
|-
| 88
| 95
| Unicron
| ''[[Transformers: Unicron]]'' [[Our Darkest|#0]]–[[Ceremony|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[August 26|26/08]]/2020
|-
| 94
| 96
| Beast Wars: The Ascending
| [[Transformers: Beast Wars: The Ascending|''Beast Wars: The Ascending'' #1–4]] (assumed)
|
| [[September 9|09/09]]/2020
|-
| 97
| 97
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 3
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War'' #1–5]] (assumed)
|
| [[September 23|23/09]]/2020
|-
| 98
| 98
| The World In Your Eyes
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The World In Your Eyes Part One|#1]]–[[Orion Pax: Free Fall|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[October 7|07/10]]/2020
|-
| 99
| 99
| The Cracks Beneath Your Feet
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The Cracks Beneath Your Feet Part One|#7]]–[[Nautica: Home|12]] (assumed)
|
| [[October 21|21/10]]/2020
|-
| 100
| 100
| Constructicons Rising
| ''[[Transformers: Galaxies]]'' [[Constructicons Rising, Part 1|#1]]–[[Wannabee, Part 2|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[November 4|04/11]]/2020
|}

==Notes==
* The free gifts shipped to subscribers with the first five deliveries (each consisting of two isses - except the first, which included a third issue free) were:
** Autobot/Decepticon [[insignia]] keyrings!
** A wallet!
** A tin-plate version of the cover to "[[Dark Star]]", featuring a cosmically-empowered [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]]!
** A mug!
** A pair of metal Autobot/Decepticon insignia bookends!<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20170112033736/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* Before the partwork launched, the second free gift was advertised as an [[Insignia|Autobrand]] belt buckle.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20160914212214/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* The first issue collected "[[Target: 2006]]", and was coincidentally out at newsagents thirty years after the story originally ran.<ref>[http://thesolarpool.weebly.com/transformers-uk227.html Solar Pool]: "The Target: 2006 book is already out... if it doesn’t [finish], Target: 2006 was back on at least some newsagents shelves towards the end of its 30th anniversary week. How cool is that?"</ref>
* The printings of Marvel material aren't really identical to those released by IDW—for instance, issue 1 (volume 6 - confused yet?) includes various Marvel trademarks (such as the superheroes around the edge of the cover to "Heavy Traffic" and the kid wearing a Spider-Man t-shirt in "Decepticon Graffiti") which were painted out of IDW's reprints due to rights issues.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-10#post-14168736 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "The weird thing is, though, these '''aren't''' the IDW versions. The cover to Heavy Traffic has all the Marvel characters around the edge, and the little kid in Decepticon Graffiti is wearing his Spider-Man t-shirt. This stuff was painted out of the IDW trades due to rights issues with Marvel."</ref>

===Errors===
* When the website launched, it accidentally credited [[Andrew Wildman|Andrew ''Wlid''man]].
* Copies of the first issue provided to general retail and initial subscribers had an error on the spine, with the black volume number box at the top being the wrong size.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14249131 ultra badness on the TFW2005 forums]: "I just got an email from Hachette to say they had misprinted the spine art on issue 1. And hey will send a replacement. Hurrah! Im going to have 3 issues!"</ref> Subscribers received free corrected copies, while those who bought theirs at newsagents had to wait for replacements which were included with issue 7.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14256091 Magnus' Mate on TFW2005]: "Incidentally, the 'corrected' #1 will be available to non-subscribers as well, included free with issue #7!"</ref> Hachette were seen giving away error-stricken copies for free at a signing event at a London comic shop.<ref>[http://forums.millarworld.tv/t/the-trades-thread-hardcovers-graphic-novels-and-more/4923/2359 Millarworld forums (dead link)]</ref> This error shouldn't be confused with the change in spine art for the first four issues made between the limited trial run and the mass release,<ref>[http://www.facebook.com/TransformersG1Collection/posts/1533415153338562?comment_id=1533436356669775&reply_comment_id=1533593929987351 Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection on Facebook]</ref> which means that anyone who subscribed to the series from its trial will end up with ''three'' different copies of issue 1.
* The poster included with issue 1 includes a bio for [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]]... which uses an image of [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]].<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13983869 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "Also: the poster that comes with Volume 1 (Target: 2006) shows some small character bios but goofs up the "Jazz" bio by using a picture of Prowl."</ref>
* The trial versions of issues 1 and 2 had the inside cover art swapped: the "Target: 2006" book had artwork for ''Stormbringer'', and vice versa.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13989359 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "On anybody else's copies, is the inside cover art wrong? I've got Stormbringer art inside the Target:2006 book, and Target:2006 art inside the Stormbringer book."</ref>
* A feature in issue 1 states that the Marvel UK comic sold 200,000 copies per week, when really it only sold 100,000 per week ''at its peak''. This error presumably stems from the fact that Marvel (and other publishers at the time) multiplied their circulation figures by 2.5 to calculate their readership, as they estimated that many issues would be shared between friends and siblings.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>
* Hatchette's own masterings of the comics introduce yet more errors. In issue 1, for example, an instance of '[[Skids (G1)|]]' in dialogue is misspelled as 'Skips'.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14277882 Bass X0 on the TFW2005 forums]: "In Decepticon Graffiti, Skids is called Skips on the second page."</ref> This error was not present in IDW's original reprints.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-13#post-14316444 Magnus' Mate on the TFW2005 forums]: "Except the IDW "Transformers Classics" volume 2 with issue #23 in doesn't have this same problem - Skids is still Skids, not Skips! I know there are other problems with them, but this one is on Hachette."</ref>
* The bio for John Paul Bove included in issue 3 (volume 16) was apparently written by himself in the first person, then edited into the third person—one of the sentences written in first person remains!<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-8#post-14101771 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "There is also a half page bio on JP, which was obviously written by himself in the first person, and then edited to be the third person- but they missed one of the first person senetnces and it is still in there!"</ref>
* Some copies of volume 22 had a number erroneously printed on one of the pages.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-20#post-15179844 rodster6 on the TFW2005 forums]: "Got volume 7 today (which I think is issue 22) and there is a weird number printed randomly on one page that shouldn't be there."</ref>
* The first print run for volume 35 had an error where the last two pages of ''Monstrosity'' #11 were swapped with two from "War and Peace" #3.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-18#post-14880721 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "The last two pages of Monstrosity #11 have been swapped with the ones from W&P #3"</ref>
* Many volumes include pages which are stuck together, though this is easy enough for the reader to fix.
* Though some readers may try to convince you otherwise, [[Mister Johnson]] is not an error.

===Reading order===
*Within individual volumes, Marvel material is segregated between US and UK stories—even when those stories were originally interspersed, with connected narratives!
**The material in volume 2 should be ordered US #5-8, UK #29-32, US #9-10. "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" is a Furman-penned comic from [[Transformers Annual 1985|the 1995 annual]], but it's a standalone flashback that isn't referenced until UK #44. "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" (the other comic from the annual) is set in the present day but doesn't match up with the continuity at large—for some reason it's included as backmatter to volume 13, alongside stories released three years later!
**Volume 3 presents UK #41-50 before US #11-12. This should be the other way around!
**The pack-in comic "[[The Special Teams Have Arrived]]" is absent—but of course, it was completely retold in UK #63-65, included here in volume 4.
**The two comic stories from [[Transformers Annual 1986|the 1986 annual]] aren't directly connected to specific issues; "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" doesn't really fit into continuity at all, but certainly takes place after UK #65—which is where the partwork puts it—while "[[Victory!]]" (which explains what happened to the Dinobots between UK #50 and #65) is placed before UK #74-77, another Dinobot-centric story which touches on its events.
**"[[The Gift]]", UK #93's seasonal story by [[James Hill]], is omitted; it should be placed in volume 6 between US #22 and US #23.
**Volume 8 presents US #28 before UK #113-120, despite it having been published afterwards as UK #121-122.
**The stories from [[Transformers Annual 1987|the 1987 annual]] are scattered. "[[Vicious Circle!]]" is placed in volume 8 alongside UK #113-120, collectively forming the first "post-movie" storyline. "What's In a Name?" is set during UK #135-136, but for some reason is placed after UK #137-138 in volume 11. "[[Ark Duty]]" is also thrown into volume 11, after UK #146-151... despite chronologically taking place some time before that story.
*Presumably as an editorial decision, the partwork omits a large quantity of prose material.
**Marvel UK's prose content is mostly omitted, although it bears mentioning that much of it is tricky to reconcile with the continuity proper anyway. This includes James Hill's four stories from the 1985 and 1986 annuals ("[[Missing in Action]]", "[[Hunted!]]", "[[The Return of the Transformers]]" and "[[State Games]]"), Jamie Delano's "[[The Mission]]" (also from 1986), Furman's in-universe recaps from the 1986 and 1989 annuals ("[[In the Beginning...]]" and "[[The Saga of the Transformers — So Far!]]"), Ian Rimmer's "[[Prime Bomb!]]" (also from 1989), both stories from the 1990 annual ("[[The Quest!]]" and "[[Trigger-Happy!]]"), the 1991 annual's "[[The Magnificent Six!]]", and the 1992 annual's "[[Another Time & Place]]". UK #302's "[[Dreadwind's Xmas!]]" is absent too.
**The various prose stories, profiles and comics first printed with the collected editions of ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers| Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'' are absent.
**Tom Scioli's four-page "[[Black Cybertron]]" prose story from ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe issue 10|#10]] is omitted, along with the creators' commentaries which graced the other issues in the series.

==Covers==
<center><gallery caption="Marvel (US & UK)" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v1.jpg|Vol 1: Power Play
DefinitiveG1Collection v2.jpg|Vol 2: New Order
DefinitiveG1Collection v3.jpg|Vol 3: Dinobot Hunt
DefinitiveG1Collection v4.jpg|Vol 4: Second Generation
DefinitiveG1Collection v5.jpg|Vol 5: The Smelting Pool
DefinitiveG1Collection v6.jpg|Vol 6: Target: 2006
DefinitiveG1Collection v7.jpg|Vol 7: The Harder They Die
DefinitiveG1Collection v8.jpg|Vol 8: Wanted: Galvatron - Dead or Alive
DefinitiveG1Collection v9.jpg|Vol 9: Toy Soldiers
DefinitiveG1Collection v10.jpg|Vol 10: Trial by Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v11.jpg|Vol 11: The Legacy of Unicron
DefinitiveG1Collection v12.jpg|Vol 12: Cosmic Carnival
DefinitiveG1Collection v13.jpg|Vol 13: City of Fear
DefinitiveG1Collection v14.jpg|Vol 14: Space Pirates
DefinitiveG1Collection v15.jpg|Vol 15: Time Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v16.jpg|Vol 16: The Primal Scream
DefinitiveG1Collection v17.jpg|Vol 17: Matrix Quest
DefinitiveG1Collection v18.jpg|Vol 18: Edge of Extinction
DefinitiveG1Collection v19.jpg|Vol 19: Perchance to Dream
DefinitiveG1Collection v20.jpg|Vol 20: End of the Road
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Marvel's Generation 2" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v89.jpg|Vol 89: Realignments
DefinitiveG1Collection v90.jpg|Vol 90: Generation 2 Part 1

</gallery>
<gallery caption="IDW's Regeneration One" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v21.jpg|Vol 21: Regeneration One
DefinitiveG1Collection v22.jpg|Vol 22: Natural Selection
DefinitiveG1Collection v23.jpg|Vol 23: Destiny
DefinitiveG1Collection v24.jpg|Vol 24: The War to End All Wars
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Dreamwave Productions" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v25.jpg|Vol 25: Prime Directive
DefinitiveG1Collection v26.jpg|Vol 26: War and Peace
DefinitiveG1Collection v27.jpg|Vol 27: Worlds Collide Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v28.jpg|Vol 28: Worlds Collide Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v29.jpg|Vol 29: The War Within
DefinitiveG1Collection v30.jpg|Vol 30: War Within: The Dark Ages
DefinitiveG1Collection v31.jpg|Vol 31: The Iron Fist
</gallery>

<gallery caption="2005 IDW continuity" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v32.jpg|Vol 32: Infiltration
DefinitiveG1Collection v33.jpg|Vol 33: Megatron Origin
DefinitiveG1Collection v34.jpg|Vol 34: Autocracy
DefinitiveG1Collection v35.jpg|Vol 35: Primacy
DefinitiveG1Collection v36.jpg|Vol 36: Stormbringer
DefinitiveG1Collection v37.jpg|Vol 37: Escalation
DefinitiveG1Collection v38.jpg|Vol 38: Devastation
DefinitiveG1Collection v39.jpg|Vol 39: Hearts of Steel
DefinitiveG1Collection v40.jpg|Vol 40: Maximum Dinobots
DefinitiveG1Collection v41.jpg|Vol 41: Drift
DefinitiveG1Collection v42.jpg|Vol 42: Revelation
DefinitiveG1Collection v43.jpg|Vol 43: All Hail Megatron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v44.jpg|Vol 44: All Hail Megatron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v45.jpg|Vol 45: Last Stand of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v46.jpg|Vol 46: Things Fall Apart
DefinitiveG1Collection v47.jpg|Vol 47: International Incident
DefinitiveG1Collection v48.jpg|Vol 48: Revenge of the Decepticons
DefinitiveG1Collection v49.jpg|Vol 49: The Iron Age
DefinitiveG1Collection v50.jpg|Vol 50: Heart of Darkness
DefinitiveG1Collection v51.jpg|Vol 51: Chaos Theory
DefinitiveG1Collection v52.jpg|Vol 52: The Death of Optimus Prime
DefinitiveG1Collection v53.jpg|Vol 53: Liars, A to D
DefinitiveG1Collection v54.jpg|Vol 54: A Better Tomorrow
DefinitiveG1Collection v55.jpg|Vol 55: Shadowplay
DefinitiveG1Collection v56.jpg|Vol 56: City On Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v57.jpg|Vol 57: Remain In Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v58.jpg|Vol 58: Shockpoint
DefinitiveG1Collection v59.jpg|Vol 59: Dark Cybertron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v60.jpg|Vol 60: Dark Cybertron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v61.jpg|Vol 61: World Shut Your Mouth
DefinitiveG1Collection v62.jpg|Vol 62: Earthfall
DefinitiveG1Collection v63.jpg|Vol 63: Elegant Chaos
DefinitiveG1Collection v64.jpg|Vol 64: Windblade
DefinitiveG1Collection v65.jpg|Vol 65: Combiner Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v66.jpg|Vol 66: Speak, Memory
DefinitiveG1Collection v67.jpg|Vol 67: Conquerors
DefinitiveG1Collection v68.jpg|Vol 68: Empire of Stone
DefinitiveG1Collection v69.jpg|Vol 69: Sins of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v70.jpg|Vol 70: Punishment
DefinitiveG1Collection v71.jpg|Vol 71: All Hail Optimus
DefinitiveG1Collection v72.jpg|Vol 72: The Dying of the Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v75.jpg|Vol 75: Titans Return, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v76.jpg|Vol 76: Titans Return, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v77.jpg|Vol 77: Dissolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v78.jpg|Vol 78: New Cybertron
DefinitiveG1Collection v79.jpg|Vol 79: Primeless
DefinitiveG1Collection v80.jpg|Vol 80: Requiem of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v81.jpg|Vol 81: Revolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v82.jpg|Vol 82: Revolutionaries
DefinitiveG1Collection v83.jpg|Vol 83: First Strike
DefinitiveG1Collection v84.jpg|Vol 84: The Falling Part 1

</gallery>
<gallery caption="Miscellaneous" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v73.jpg|Vol 73: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v74.jpg|Vol 74: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v92.jpg|Vol 92: Transformers: The Movie
</gallery>

''[[:Category:Definitive G1 Collection covers|Extended cover gallery]]''</center>

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[http://www.transformerscollection.com/ Official website]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Definitive G1 Collection}}
[[Category:Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics continuity comic compilations]]
[[Category:Dreamwave Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Generation 1 comic compilations]]

Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection

2020-05-11T10:46:33Z

YoungDoctor: /* Volumes */

[[File:Definitive G1 Collection in full.jpg|thumb|upright=3.05|4/5 of a grand tale.]]

'''Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection''' is a fortnightly 100-volume partwork from [[Hachette]], edited by [[Simon Furman]]. Partworks are a Hachette specialty: a series will be collected out of order (the first ''Definitive'' was volume 6) for commercial purposes but can be collected on your shelf in order with a fancy picture on the collective spines. The collection aims to republish every single "Generation 1" comic ever made, including the original [[Marvel Comics]] run—UK and US—in order for the very first time. Each issue has a special cover and bonus content, and [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)#Fantastic Free Gift.21|Fantastic FREE! Gifts]] are provided for subscribers. Marvel UK strips which were originally printed in black-and-white have been given brand new colours by [[John-Paul Bove]] using emulations of both 1980s American and latter-day Marvel UK techniques.<ref>"A Different Approach to Colour", Vol.16</ref> These include "[[Raiders of the Last Ark]]" in volume 1 and many later strips starting with "[[Race with the Devil]]" in volume 16.

The series was initially announced in September 2016 to contain 60 issues—ending with the ''Dark Cybertron'' crossover—but by the time of its launch in December, it had already been extended to 80 issues, with volume 80 providing some closure in the form of ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One| Till All Are One]]'' and ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers| Requiem of the Wreckers]]''. In 2018, upon the conclusion of IDW's first continuity, fan observed that it would take around ten extra volumes to reprint the entire IDW catalogue—and on the 18th of July 2019, Simon Furman confirmed on Twitter that the collection had been extended by ''twenty'' issues for a total of 100.

Sounds great, right?

Well... not if you live outside the [[United Kingdom]] and [[Ireland]]. The partwork was given a trial-run in parts of the UK before a national release started in early 2017. In August 2017, the subscription also became available in [[Australia]],<ref>[http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?s=438cea1ad48786466241053a45f743ae&t=24685 Ozformers Transformers Club of Australia]: UK Definitive Comic collection from Hachette now in Australia</ref> but became unavailable in July 2018 due to the closure of the Australian distributor. In January 2019, it became available in [[Poland]],<ref>[https://transformers-kolekcja.pl/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIrYTRuabz3wIVl-F3Ch2P7wirEAAYASAAEgJKLvD_BwE Polish version of official site]</ref> with volumes being released in proper chronological order.

Even for those who were able to subscribe, the partwork ended up not being quite as ''definitive'' as advertised. The reprints of Marvel US material were taken from IDW's ''Transformers Classic'' 'remasters', complete with newly-introduced typos and haphazard attempts to 'fix' errors. As such, many of the minor edits made to those stories for their original UK printings (to better jive with Furman's expanded continuity) are absent.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-9#post-14167234 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "In order to smooth over the continuity cracks between the UK and US stories, the US books were usually edited (US#16-24 were especially affected) for their UK printing. But rather than the UK edits of the American stories, we get the familiar US versions. <nowiki>[...]</nowiki> Oh, and on page 214, there's a factual error as well, when it states that Transformers UK sold 200,000 copies per week. That's actually completely false. It actually sold 100,000 copies per week at its peak. That said, each individual comic sold would tend to be read by a number of people, as kids lent or gave their comics to siblings or school friends. It was calculated that, on average, each comic sold would be read by two-point-five people. Marvel (and other comic publishers such as Fleetway or IPC) would therefore take the ''actual'' circulation figures and apply this 2.5 multiplier to give a total readership that did exceed two hundred thousand on occasion. So whilst the ''readership'' was arguably 250K-plus, the actual ''number of copies'' sold was nowhere near that figure.</ref> Furthermore, thanks to the dreadfully-flat colouring of the ''Classics'' reprints, John Paul Bove's newly-coloured versions of the black-and-white UK strips—intended to match surrounding US stories—end up looking out of place anyway!

Cover galleries include the covers for both the US and UK stories, but ''not'' the UK-exclusive covers for US stories. Additionally, it's apparent that Hatchette mapped out the partwork with the intent of being the first company to reprint the latter-day Dreamwave material such as [[Transformers: Generation 1 (Dreamwave)|the Sunstorm arc]] and ''[[Transformers: Micromasters| Micromasters]]'', in volumes 27 and 28—but those volumes wound up containing issues from Dreamwave's ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)| Armada]]'' comic, which merely guest-starred G1 characters and seem very out of place in a "Definitive ''G1'' Collection". Presumably, this late change occurred for the same reason those stories have never been reprinted in the first place—nobody's sure whether the creative teams were actually ''paid'' for their work.

To make matters worse, the order in which much of the material is presented—particularly with IDW's stories—can often only be described as ''baffling''. Furthermore, many issues were first printed with glaring errors, and Hatchette's own notoriously-bad customer service made obtaining corrected replacements a nightmare for many subscribers.

==Volumes==
{{note|Each volume contains cover art from the original issues, plus a new introduction by Simon Furman. The bonus features below are in addition to these.}}
{| class="wikitable sortable"
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Vol.
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Issue
! scope="col" style="width: 125px;" | Title
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Contents
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Bonus Features
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Release date
|-
| 06
| 01
|Target: 2006
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Target: 2006|#78–83]] "[[Cybertron: The Middle Years!]]" Marvel UK [[Target: 2006|#84–88]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Aerialbots over America!|#21]]–[[Decepticon Graffiti!|23]]
| A guide to the launch of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' in the UK and its marketing purposes for Marvel UK, a "Meet... The [[Wrecker]]s" feature, a behind-the-scenes look at the development of "Target: 2006", and a spotlight on [[Geoff Senior]].
|[[December 30|30/12]]/[[2016]]
|-
| 36
| 02
| Stormbringer
| ''[[Spotlight: Shockwave]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Soundwave]]'' [[The Transformers: Stormbringer|''Stormbringer'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Nightbeat]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Hot Rod]]''
| An article on the beginning of IDW-verse production and several sketches by Figueroa.
|[[January 11|11/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 16
| 03
| The Primal Scream
| [[Cold Comfort and Joy!|Marvel UK #198]], [[The Fall and Rise of the Decepticon Empire.|#213]]–[[Survivors!|222]] [[Back from the Dead|Marvel US #56]]–[[The Primal Scream|61]]
| An overview of the change in format of the UK series and the introduction of 5-page black-and-white strips, and an article by Bove on the colouring techniques used at Marvel UK and Marvel US in the 1980s, and how he emulated them for colourising the UK strips.
|[[January 27|27/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 18
| 04
| Edge of Extinction
| [[Rhythms of Darkness!|Marvel US #67]]–[[On the Edge of Extinction!|75]]
| An overview of [[Unicron/Generation 1#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel's Unicron]] and a spotlight on [[Andrew Wildman]].
|[[February 8|08/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 29
| 05
| The War Within
| [[Transformers: The War Within|The War Within #1–6]] and [[The War Within Preview|preview]]
| Various character design sketches by [[Don Figueroa]] and an article on the making of ''The War Within''.
|[[February 22|22/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 37
| 06
| Escalation
| ''[[Spotlight: Sixshot]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Ultra Magnus]]'' [[The Transformers: Escalation|''Escalation'' #1–6]]
| Sketches by [[E. J. Su]], bios on [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|IDW Ultra Magnus]] & [[Sixshot (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Sixshot]], an article on creating the IDW ''Spotlights'', and an interview with Su. 
|[[March 8|08/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 08
| 07
| Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive
| [[King of the Hill!|Marvel US #27]]–[[Mechanical Difficulties!|28]] [[Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive!|Marvel UK #113]]–[[Fire on High!|120]] "[[Vicious Circle!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]])
| An overview of the Marvel UK Annuals and a bio on [[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Goldbug]].
|[[March 22|22/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 39
| 08
| Hearts of Steel
| [[Hearts of Steel|''Hearts of Steel'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Galvatron]], [[Spotlight: Optimus Prime]], [[Spotlight: Mirage]]''
| Concept art by [[Guido Guidi]] and an article about the creation of ''Hearts of Steel''.
|[[April 5|05/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 10
| 09
| Trial by Fire
| [[The Transformers: Headmasters|Headmasters #1–4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Trial by Fire!|#38]]–[[The Desert Island of Space!|39]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Worlds Apart!|#130]]–[[Kup's Story!|132]]
| A retrospective on the [[The Transformers: Headmasters|''Headmasters'' miniseries]] and an overview of how Marvel UK handled toy marketing.
| [[April 19|19/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 21
| 10
| Regeneration One
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Counterpoint|#80.5]]–[[Loose Ends, Part 5|85]]
| A commentary on [[Loose Ends, Part 1|issue #81]] by Simon Furman, an overview on production leading up to ''Regeneration One'', and several cover sketches.
| [[May 3|03/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 31
| 11
| The Iron Fist
| [[Transformers/G.I. Joe|Transformers/G.I. Joe #1–6]]
| Various character design sketches by Figueroa and an overview of the many [[G.I. Joe crossovers]] across the comics.
| [[May 17|17/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 50
| 12
| Heart of Darkness
| [[Infestation (IDW)|''The Transformers: Infestation'' #1–2]] [[The Transformers: Heart of Darkness|''Heart of Darkness'' #1–4]]
| A post-mortem on "[[Zombie|Zombots]]" across the various comics and a bio on [[Hardhead (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Hardhead]].
| [[May 31|31/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 59
| 13
| Dark Cybertron, Part 1
| [[Dark Dawn: Dark Cybertron Chapter 1|''Dark Cybertron'' one-shot]] [[Little Victories|''More than Meets the Eye'' #22]]–[[No Exit: Dark Cybertron Chapter 6|25]] [[Winners & Losers: Dark Cybertron Chapter 3|''Robots in Disguise'' #23]]–[[Finest Hour: Dark Cybertron Chapter 5|24]]
| A bio on the [[Titan (group)|Titans]] and the making of ''Dark Cybertron'' with [[John Barber]] and James Roberts.
| [[June 14|14/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 01
| 14
| Power Play
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Transformers (issue)|#1]]–[[The Last Stand|4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Man of Iron (issue)|#9]]–[[Raiders of the Last Ark|#21]]
| The alternate ending of [[The Last Stand|Marvel US #4]], unused artwork from [[The Transformers (issue)|issue #1]] by [[Frank Springer]], and an overview of how Marvel UK first approached The Transformers.
| [[June 28|28/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 26
| 15
| War and Peace
| ''[[War and Peace|Transformers: Generation 1 vol. 2]]'' #1–6 and [[Transformers Volume 2 Preview|preview]]
| Top 10 Easter eggs for "[[War and Peace]]" and scorecards listing each faction and their crew members during the arc.
| [[July 12|12/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 35
| 16
| Primacy
| [[The Transformers: Monstrosity|''Monstrosity'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Primacy|''Primacy'' #1–4]]
| An interview with [[Flint Dille]] about his work on the G1 cartoon and his involvement in the ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy|Autocracy]]'' trilogy.
| [[July 26|26/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 64
| 17
| Windblade
| [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 1 #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[Onyx Interface Part One: Signals, Calls, and Marches|#35]]–[[The Onyx Interface Conclusion: The Obliterati|38]]
| A bio for [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]], an overview of her conception, pictures of her ''[[Thrilling 30]]'' toy, and early design sketches by Hasbro.
| [[August 9|09/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 19
| 18
| Perchance to Dream
| [[Out to Lunch!|Marvel UK #240]]–[[...Perchance to Dream|260]] [[Still Life!|Marvel US #76]]–[[Exodus!|77]]
| A Marvel UK ''Classic Heroes Competition!'' page, an overview of Furman's attempts to connect Marvel UK's black-and-white strips to the US stories and how he would eventually have to abandon doing so, an article on the "[[Two Megatrons!]]" confusion, and a bio on [[Thunderwing (G1)#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Thunderwing]].
| [[August 23|23/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 40
| 19
| Maximum Dinobots
| [[The Transformers: Maximum Dinobots|''Maximum Dinobots'' #1–5]] ''[[Spotlight: Grimlock]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Wheelie]]''
| Dinobot sketches by [[Nick Roche]] and [[Klaus Scherwinski]]'s ''Spotlight: Wheelie'' sketchbook.
| [[September 6|06/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 22
| 20
| Natural Selection
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Natural Selection, Part One|#86]]–[[Natural Selection, Part Five|90]] "[[Peace]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]])
| An overview of the [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Marvel ''Generation 2'' comic]] and several cover sketches.
| [[September 20|20/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 46
| 21
| Things Fall Apart
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Things Fall Apart, Part 1: "New Arrivals, Old Encounters"|#2]]–[[Scrapper (issue)|8]]
| Character design sketches by Figueroa, an extract from ''[[Decepticomments]]'' from [[Things Fall Apart, Part 3: "Seasons in Flight"|''The Transformers'' #4]] by [[Mike Costa]], and a bio on [[Swindle (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Swindle]].
| [[October 4|04/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 07
| 22
| The Harder They Die
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Prey!|#96]]–[[Resurrection!|104]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Afterdeath!|#24]]–[[Funeral for a Friend!|26]]
| An analysis of [[the many deaths of Optimus Prime]] in Generation 1.
| [[October 18|18/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 33
| 23
| Megatron: Origin
| [[The Transformers: Megatron Origin|''Megatron: Origin'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Blurr]]'', ''[[Omega's Conundrum|Spotlight: Orion Pax]]''
| A discussion of the production stages on ''Megatron: Origin'' by [[Eric Holmes]].
| [[November 1|01/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 14
| 24
| Space Pirates
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Wrecking Havoc|#172–173]], [[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|#180]]–[[Dry Run!|189]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|#43]] & [[The Man in the Machine!|#51]], "[[Altered Image!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]])
| How Marvel UK incorporated ''[[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|The Big Broadcast of 2006]]'' into the timeline.
| [[November 15|15/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 43
| 25
| All Hail Megatron, Part 1
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #1–8]]
| An article on creating ''All Hail Megatron'', character design sketches by Guidi, and the series pitch by [[Shane McCarthy]].
| [[November 29|29/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 52
| 26
| The Death of Optimus Prime
| [[Chaos (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1 #24, 26, 28, 30, 31]] ''[[Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime|The Death of Optimus Prime]]''
| An interview with [[James Roberts]] on how he worked his way up to become an ongoing writer, and character design sketches by [[Livio Ramondelli]].
| [[December 13|13/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 44
| 27
| All Hail Megatron, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #9–16]]
| A ''Decepticon Roll Call'' with mini-bios, and trivia about ''All Hail Megatron'' [[All Hail Megatron issue 13|#13]]–[[All Hail Megatron issue 16|16]], pointing out notable plot points in the ''Coda'' issues.
| [[December 27|27/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 20
| 28
| End of the Road
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Starting Over!|#261]]–[[End of the Road! (UK)|289]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[A Savage Circle|#78]]–[[End of the Road! (US)|80]]
| Articles about the ends of the US and UK series, including discussion of "[[Another Time & Place]]," the final letters page from #80, and script pages from #80.
| [[January 10|10/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 72
| 29
| The Dying of the Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Dying of the Light: (1) How Bright Their Frail Deeds|#50]]–[[The Dying of the Light Part 6: Do Not Go Gentle|55]]
| The bonus story "[[No Guns, No Swords, No Briefcases]] and essential background material on the [[Decepticon Justice Division|DJD]]
| [[January 24|24/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 75
| 30
| Titans Return, Part 1
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[07:00:00|#1]]–[[The Line Between Us|4]] [[The Last Autobot|''Titans Return'' one-shot]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[White Light|#56]]–[[White Heat|57]] ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Ten to Midnight|#56]]–[[Last Light (issue)|57]]
| "Creating the IDW-Verse" — a two-page article on the beginning of ''More than Meets the Eye'' and ''Robots in Disguise''.
| [[February 7|07/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 60
| 31
| Dark Cybertron, Part 2
| [[The Dead Are Not Enough: Dark Cybertron Chapter 7|''Robots in Disguise'' #25]]–[[Black Planet: Dark Cybertron Chapter 11|27]] [[Burning Bright: Dark Cybertron Chapter 8|''More than Meets the Eye'' #26]]–[[The Becoming: Dark Cybertron Chapter 10|27]] [[...And the Damage Done: Dark Cybertron Finale|''Dark Cybertron: Finale'' one-shot]]
| A blow-by-blow account of Dark Cybertron's hidden secrets
| [[February 21|21/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 71
| 32
| All Hail Optimus
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[All Hail Optimus Part 1: Once Upon a Time on Earth|#50]]–[[All Hail Optimus Part 6: No Fair Fights|55]]
| Background material on the [[Council of Worlds]]
| [[March 7|07/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 02
| 33
| New Order
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The New Order|#5]]–[[The Next Best Thing to Being There!|#10]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Decepticon Dam-Busters!|#29]]–[[The Wrath of Grimlock!|#32]] "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1995]])
| Insights into Marvel UK's efforts to ease the transition between the US and UK material
| [[March 21|21/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 03
| 34
| Dinobot Hunt
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Christmas Breaker!|#41]]–[[Dinobot Hunt!|50]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Brainstorm!|#11]]–[[Prime Time!|#12]]
| A look at the UK [[Christmas]] story tradition
| [[April 4|04/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 23
| 35
| Destiny
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Destiny, Part One|#91]]–[[Destiny, Part Five|95]], [[Less Than Zero|#0]] "[[Destiny of the Dinobots!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| A feature on Regeneration One issue #0 and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[April 18|18/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 30
| 36
| War Within: The Dark Ages
| [[Transformers: War Within: The Dark Ages|''War Within: The Dark Ages'' #1–6]]
| Synopsis of ''[[Transformers: War Within: The Age of Wrath|War Within: the Age of Wrath]]'', including art from unfinished issues.
| [[May 2|02/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 45
| 37
| Last Stand of the Wreckers
| [[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|''Last Stand of the Wreckers'' #1–5]] ''[[Ride-Along|Spotlight: Prowl]]'' [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[...For All Mankind|#1]]
| Interview with [[Nick Roche]], pre-production sketches and story drafts
| [[May 16|16/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 49
| 38
| The Iron Age
| [[The Transformers: Ironhide|''Ironhide'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Space Opera Part 1: The Stars My Destination|#19]]–[[Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix|21 ("Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix" only)]].
| Casey Coller's ''Ironhide'' sketchbook
| [[May 30|30/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 11
| 39
| The Legacy of Unicron
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Headhunt|#133]]–[[Ladies' Night (issue)|138]], "[[What's in a Name?]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]), [[The Legacy of Unicron!|#146–151]] "[[Ark Duty]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Pretender to the Throne!|#40]]–[[Totaled!|41]]
| A feature on the origins of the origin of the Transformers
| [[June 13|13/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 17
| 40
| Matrix Quest
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Bird of Prey!|#62]]–[[All Fall Down|66]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Aspects of Evil!|#223]]–[[A Savage Place!|239]] "[[The Chain Gang!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| Features on the stories behind "Matrix Quest" and, Marvel UK's crossover "[[Deathbringer (Marvel)|Deathbringer]]" saga
| [[June 27|27/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 73
| 41
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 1
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[The Golden Boys|#0]]–[[Headmasters (issue)|7]]
| A creator commentary on issue #0 and an exclusive interview with [[Tom Scioli]]
| [[July 11|11/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 76
| 42
| Titans Return, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]] [[Ping|#5]]–[[If I Know You|11]]
| Article on ''[[Revolution]]''
| [[July 25|25/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 62
| 43
| Earthfall
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Earthfall Part 1: Hello Cruel World|#28]]–[[The Crucible|34]]
| The lowdown on the (new) human cast and rare promotional posters for the [[Dawn of the Autobots]] event
| [[August 8|08/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 04
| 44
| Second Generation
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Shooting Star!|#13]]–[[Plight of the Bumblebee!|16]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Robot Buster!|#59]]–[[Second Generation!|65]] "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]])
| The story behind Marvel UK's Special Teams promotion
| [[August 22|22/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 32
| 45
| Infiltration
| [[The Transformers: Infiltration|''Infiltration'' #0–6]]
| An article on "Creating the IDW-Verse: From the Ground Up", "The Pitch" - Furman's original pitch to IDW for Infiltration, and some sketches by [[E. J. Su]].
| [[September 5|05/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 24
| 46
| The War to End All Wars
| ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]]'' [[The War to End All Wars, Part 1|#96]]–[[The War to End All Wars, Part 5|100]]
| the prose story "[[King of Shadows]]" and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[September 19|19/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 28
| 47
| Worlds Collide Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Worlds Collide|#14]]–[[The_End|18]] [[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye#Issue .238|Dreamwave's ''More than Meets the Eye'' #8]]
| A brief overview of Dreamwave's [[Transformers: Energon (comic)|Energon comic]] and a bonus glossary section dedicated entirely to background material from the Dreamwave G1-verse
| [[October 3|03/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 42
| 48
| Revelation
| ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]: [[Spotlight: Arcee|Arcee]], [[Spotlight: Cyclonus|Cyclonus]], [[Spotlight: Hardhead|Hardhead]], [[Spotlight: Doubledealer|Doubledealer]], [[Spotlight: Sideswipe|Sideswipe]], [[Spotlight: Jazz|Jazz]], [[Spotlight: Metroplex|Metroplex]]''
| "-Ations" retrospective, sketchbook art from Alex Milne and E. J. Su reprinted from individual ''Spotlights''
| [[October 17|17/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 65
| 49
| Combiner Wars
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[First Contact (IDW)|#39]]–[[Now and On Earth|42]] [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2 #1–4]]
| An article on the [[Prime Wars Trilogy]]
| [[October 31|31/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 79
| 50
| Primeless
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Life of Sideswipe|#9]]–[[Primeless, Part 2|12]] ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light|Lost Light]]'' [[Chasing the Infinite|#9]]–[[The Plotters' Club (Part 3): Journey's End|12]]
| A one-page editorial by Simon Furman that mentions the IDW universe's impending end
| [[November 14|14/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 12
| 51
| Cosmic Carnival
| [[Stargazing|Marvel UK #145]], [[Enemy Action!|152–153]], [[Salvage!|160–161]] [[People Power!|Marvel US #42]], [[The Cosmic Carnival|44]]–[[Ca$h and Car-nage!|46]]
| A behind-the-scenes look at the UK-only return of Megatron
| [[November 28|28/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 25
| 52
| Prime Directive
| [[Prime Directive|''Tranformers: Generation 1'' vol. 1 #1–6]] (plus [[Prime Directive Preview|Preview]])
| A two-page article on 'the in-between years' covering the time when no-one had the ''Transformers'' licence for comics.
| [[December 12|12/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 53
| 53
| Liars, A to D
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Liars, A to D Part 1: How to Say Goodbye and Mean It|#1]]–[[Interiors|6]], ''[[The Reluctant Specialist|Spotlight: Trailcutter]]'' and ''[[The Waiting Game|Spotlight: Hoist]]''
| An all-new interview with James Roberts, rare archive material from the dawn of MTMTE, Alex Milne's sketchbook.
| [[December 26|26/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 55
| 54
| Shadowplay
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Rules of Disengagement (issue)|#7]]–[[More than Meets the Eye issue 13|13]], plus the [[Primus: You, Me, and Other Revelations|2012 Annual]]
| The second of a new three-part interview with Roberts, early pages of scripts, and design sketches from Alex Milne.
| [[January 9|09/01]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 13
| 55
| City of Fear
| [[City of Fear!|Marvel UK #164]]–[[Deadly Games!|171]] [[Club Con!|Marvel US #47]]–[[Dark Star|50]] "[[Dreadwing Down!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]]) "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1985]])
| A behind-the scenes look at a sea change moment for the US comic (Furman's takeover as head writer) and a [[Bob Budiansky]] sketchbook.
| [[January 23|23/01]]/2019
|-
| 41
| 56
| Drift
| [[The Transformers: Drift|''The Transformers: Drift'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlight:]] ''[[Spotlight: Drift|Drift]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Blaster]]''
| An article on creating Drift and some design sketches by [[Guido Guidi]].
| [[February 6|06/02]]/2019
|-
| 74
| 57
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[Pax Megatronus|#8]]–[[The War Never Ends|13]]
| No extras, but still has the cover art and intro from Furman present on all issues.
| [[February 20|20/02]]/2019
|-
| 47
| 58
| International Incident
| [[The Transformers: Bumblebee|''The Transformers: Bumblebee'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[International Incident Part 1: "The Land Ironclads"|#9]]–[[International Incident Part 4: "All My Sins Remembered"|12]]
| An interview with [[Zander Cannon]] and breakdowns for pages 1–4 of each issue of the ''Bumblebee'' mini-series.
| [[March 6|06/03]]/2019
|-
| 05
| 59
| The Smelting Pool
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Smelting Pool!|#17]]–[[Showdown!|#20]] "[[Victory!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[In the National Interest|#74–77]]
|Background material on the [[Cybertron (planet)|planet Cybertron]] with map.
| [[March 20|20/03]]/2019
|-
| 54
| 60
| A Better Tomorrow
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[The Autonomy Lesson (issue)|#1]]–[[Interference Patterns|7]]
| A new interview with [[John Barber]]
| [[April 3|03/04]]/2019
|-
| 48
| 61
| Revenge of the Decepticons
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Heart Like a Wheel|#13]]–[[Revenge of the Decepticons Part 5: Enemy Mine|18]] ''[[Spotlight: Megatron]]''
| A ''Spotlight: Megatron'' sketchbook
| [[April 17|17/04]]/2019
|-
| 15
| 62
| Time Wars
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Time Wars|#199–205]] "[[All in the Minds!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Guess Who the Mecannibals Are Having for Dinner?|#52]]–[[The Interplanetary Wrestling Championship!|55]].
| A behind-the-scenes look at Galvatron's storyline
| [[May 1|01/05]]/2019
|-
| 58
| 63
| Shockpoint
|[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]] #[[Plan for Everything|15]]–[[Soundwaves (issue)|22]]
| A 2-page history of IDW Shockwave's history-setting plans.
| [[May 15|15/05]]/2019
|-
| 80
| 64
| Requiem of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[Your First Mistake|#12]] [[The Chosen One|''Till Are Are One'' Annual]] [[Ghost Stories|2017 ''Transformers'' Annual]] ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers|Requiem of the Wreckers]]''
| Wreckers sketchbook and notebook material from [[Nick Roche]].
| [[May 29|29/05]]/2019
|-
| 63
| 65
| Elegant Chaos
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Custom-Made Now - An Elegant Chaos Prologue|#35]]–[[The Frail Gaze|42]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[June 12|12/06]]/2019
|-
| 09
| 66
| Toy Soldiers
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Crater Critters|#29]]–[[Used Autobots|#32]], [[Child%27s_Play_(issue)|#35]]–[[Toy Soldiers!|#37]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Ancient Relics!|#125 and ''Action Force'' #24–27]]
| A one-page behind-the-scenes feature on "[[Man of Iron (issue)|Man of Iron]]" and how it got reprinted in the US comic.
| [[June 26|26/06]]/2019
|-
| 78
| 67
| New Cybertron
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[New Cybertron Part 1: To Walk Among the Chosen|#1]]–[[What It's Really Like|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Kei Zama]]
| [[July 10|10/07]]/2019
|-
| 67
| 68
| Conquerors
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[South of Heaven|#43]]–[[Conquerors Part 4: Perihelion|49]] ''[[An Uneventful Night|Combiner Hunters]]'' one-shot
| Development art by [[Andrew Griffith]]
| [[July 24|24/07]]/2019
|-
| 38
| 69
| Devastation
| ''[[The Transformers: Devastation]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]'' for [[Spotlight: Kup|Kup]], [[Spotlight: Ramjet|Ramjet]] and [[Spotlight: Cliffjumper|Cliffjumper]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 7|07/08]]/2019
|-
| 57
| 70
| Remain in Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Remembrance Day|#14]]–[[Remain in Light 5 of 5: This Calamitous Life|21]] Prose stories "[[Signal to Noise]]" and "[[The Sound of Breaking Glass]]"
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 21|21/08]]/2019
|-
| 77
| 71
| Dissolution
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Dissolution Part 1: Some Other Cybertron|#1]]–[[An Axe to Break the Ice|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Jack Lawrence]]
| [[September 4|04/09]]/2019
|-
| 69
| 72
| Sins of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Sins of the Wreckers|Sins of the Wreckers]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers Holiday Special]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[September 18|18/09]]/2019
|-
| 56
| 73
| City On Fire
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Dinobot Hunt (IDW)|#8]]–[[Before the Dawn|14]] [[Primus: All Good Things|2012 Annual]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[October 2|02/10]]/2019
|-
| 34
| 74
| Autocracy
| ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy]]'' miniseries ''[[The Hunting Party (IDW)|Spotlight: Thundercracker]]''
| A one-page article on ''Autocracy'', including an interview with co-writer [[Chris Metzen]].
| [[October 16|16/10]]/2019
|-
| 70
| 75
| Punishment
| ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Redemption]]'' one-shot ''[[The Transformers: Salvation]]'' one-shot
| An article about the Motion Book Tool app used for the digital version of ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'', a "Brief History of the (IDW) Dinobots", and a [[Livio Ramondelli]] sketchbook.
| [[October 30|30/10]]/2019
|-
| 27
| 76
| Worlds Collide Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_8|#8]]–[[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_13|13]] [[More_than_Meets_the_Eye:_Transformers:_Armada|''More than Meets the Eye: Armada'' ]] (select material)
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 13|13/11]]/2019
|-
| 68
| 77
| Empire of Stone
| ''[[The Transformers: Drift - Empire of Stone|Drift - Empire of Stone]]'' miniseries [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2]] issues 5–7
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 27|27/11]]/2019
|-
| 51
| 78
| Chaos Theory
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Police Action: Prologue|#21 ("Police Action: Prologue" only)]], [[Chaos Theory Part 1|#22–23]], [[Police Action: Part 1|25]], [[Police Action Part 2: Only Forward|27]], [[Police Action Part 3: A Second Chance at Eden|29]] [[The Question|Spotlight: Bumblebee]]
| A one-page article exploring the origins of the "[[Chaos (IDW)|Chaos]]" arc and beyond.
| [[December 11|11/12]]/2019
|-
| 66
| 79
| Speak, Memory
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The One Where They Go to Earth|#43]]–[[Speak, Memory! (Part 2)|49]]
| A one-page article about the [[Scavenger (group)|Scavengers]].
| [[December 25|25/12]]/2019
|-
| 61
| 80
| World, Shut Your Mouth
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[World, Shut Your Mouth Part 1: Towards Peace|#28]]–[[Births, Deaths, and Interventions|34]]
| A page of "Season 2" character posters.
| [[January 8|08/01]]/[[2020]]
|-
| 84
| 81
| The Falling: Part 1
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Dead Come Home, Part 1 (of 2)|#13]]–[[The Falling, Chapter 3: The Ground|17]] ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[Starscream: The Movie (comic)|Annual 2018]]
| A one-page article about the Primes.
| [[January 22|22/01]]/2020
|-
| 90
| 82
| Generation 2: Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[Ghosts|#0]]–[[The Gathering Darkness|6]]
| An article about [[Fleetway]]'s [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Fleetway)|UK ''Generation 2'' comic]], including [small-scale scans of] "[[War Without End (issue)|War Without End]]", their first UK-original ''G2'' strip.
| [[February 5|05/02]]/2020
|-
| 81
| 83
| Revolution
| ''[[Revolution]]'' [[Secret Raiders: A Revolution Prelude|#0]]–[[Valley Forge|5]] ''[[Thundercracker & Buster Save the World|The Transformers]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Informed|Till All Are One]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Nothing Will Ever Be the Same Again!|More than Meets the Eye]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro.
| [[February 19|19/02]]/2020
|-
| 89
| 84
| Realignments
| ''[[G.I. Joe and the Transformers (comic)|G.I. Joe and the Transformers]]'' [[Blood on the Tracks|#1]]–[[...All Fall Down!|4]] [[G.I. Joe (comic)|Marvel's ''G.I. Joe'']] [[Unfoldings!|#138]]–[[Final Transformations|142]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[March 4|04/03]]/2020
|-
| 82
| 85
| Revolutionaries
| ''[[Revolutionaries]]'' [[Crisis Intervention|#1]]–[[Ghost in the Machine (IDW)|8]]
| A two-page timeline of major IDW continuity events from issue #1, and the character profiles also from issue #1.
| [[March 18|18/03]]/2020
|-
| 92
| 86
| Transformers: The Movie
| [[Transformers: The Movie (Marvel comic)|Marvel's adaption]] of [[The Transformers: The Movie|the 1986 animated movie]] [[Transformers: The Animated Movie|IDW's adaption]] of that same movie
| A one-page article about the movie-verse in comics.
| [[April 1|01/04]]/2020
|-
| 83
| 87
| First Strike
| ''[[First Strike]]'' [[First Strike issue 0|#0]]–[[First Strike issue 6|6]] [[Unification Day: Dusk|First Strike: Transformers]] one-shot [[Unification Day: Dawn|First Strike: Optimus Prime]] one-shot
| A one-page "Prelude to...Unicron!" article, preceding the reprint of "[[First Strike issue 6#Coda: "The Signal"|The Signal]]".
| [[April 22|22/04]]/2020
|-
| 95
| 88
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 1
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers'' #1–6]
|
| [[May 13|13/05]]/2020
|-
| 85
| 89
| The Falling, Part 2
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Falling, Interlude: The First Who Was Named|#18]]–[[Post|25]] (assumed)
|
| [[June 3|03/06]]/2020
|-
| 93
| 90
| Beast Wars: The Gathering
| [[Transformers, Beast Wars: The Gathering|''Beast Wars: The Gathering'' #1–4]] (assumed)
|
| [[June 17|17/06]]/2020
|-
| 86
| 91
| The Everlasting Voices
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Sardines|#13]]–[[The Everlasting Voices (3): You Are Here|18]] (assumed)
|
| [[July 1|01/07]]/2020
|-
| 96
| 92
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 2
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II'' #1–4]] (assumed)
|
| [[July 15|15/07]]/2020
|-
| 87
| 93
| Crucible
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Crucible (Part 1): A Dance Before Dying|#19]]–[[How To Say Goodbye And Mean It: Part 2|25]] (assumed)
|
| [[July 29|27/07]]/2020
|-
| 91
| 94
| Generation 2, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[New Dawn|#7]]–[[A Rage in Heaven!|12]] (assumed)
|
| [[August 12|12/08]]/2020
|-
| 88
| 95
| Unicron
| ''[[Transformers: Unicron]]'' [[Our Darkest|#0]]–[[Ceremony|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[August 26|26/08]]/2020
|-
| 94
| 96
| Beast Wars: The Ascending
| [[Transformers: Beast Wars: The Ascending|''Beast Wars: The Ascending'' #1–4]] (assumed)
|
| [[September 9|09/09]]/2020
|-
| 97
| 97
| G.I. Joe vs. Transformers, Part 3
| [[Devil's Due Press|Devil's Due]]'s [[G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War|''G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers: The Art of War'' #1–5]] (assumed)
|
| [[September 23|23/09]]/2020
|-
| 98
| 98
| The World In Your Eyes
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The World In Your Eyes Part One|#1]]–[[Orion Pax: Free Fall|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[October 7|07/10]]/2020
|-
| 99
| 99
| The Cracks Beneath Your Feet
| ''[[Transformers (2019 comic)|Transformers]]'' [[The Cracks Beneath Your Feet Part One|#7]]–[[Nautica: Home|12]] (assumed)
|
| [[October 21|21/10]]/2020
|-
| 100
| 100
| Constructicons Rising
| ''[[Transformers: Galaxies]]'' [[Constructicons Rising, Part 1|#1]]–[[Wannabee, Part 2|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[November 4|04/11]]/2020
|}

==Notes==
* The free gifts shipped to subscribers with the first five deliveries (each consisting of two isses - except the first, which included a third issue free) were:
** Autobot/Decepticon [[insignia]] keyrings!
** A wallet!
** A tin-plate version of the cover to "[[Dark Star]]", featuring a cosmically-empowered [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]]!
** A mug!
** A pair of metal Autobot/Decepticon insignia bookends!<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20170112033736/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* Before the partwork launched, the second free gift was advertised as an [[Insignia|Autobrand]] belt buckle.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20160914212214/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* The first issue collected "[[Target: 2006]]", and was coincidentally out at newsagents thirty years after the story originally ran.<ref>[http://thesolarpool.weebly.com/transformers-uk227.html Solar Pool]: "The Target: 2006 book is already out... if it doesn’t [finish], Target: 2006 was back on at least some newsagents shelves towards the end of its 30th anniversary week. How cool is that?"</ref>
* The printings of Marvel material aren't really identical to those released by IDW—for instance, issue 1 (volume 6 - confused yet?) includes various Marvel trademarks (such as the superheroes around the edge of the cover to "Heavy Traffic" and the kid wearing a Spider-Man t-shirt in "Decepticon Graffiti") which were painted out of IDW's reprints due to rights issues.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-10#post-14168736 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "The weird thing is, though, these '''aren't''' the IDW versions. The cover to Heavy Traffic has all the Marvel characters around the edge, and the little kid in Decepticon Graffiti is wearing his Spider-Man t-shirt. This stuff was painted out of the IDW trades due to rights issues with Marvel."</ref>

===Errors===
* When the website launched, it accidentally credited [[Andrew Wildman|Andrew ''Wlid''man]].
* Copies of the first issue provided to general retail and initial subscribers had an error on the spine, with the black volume number box at the top being the wrong size.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14249131 ultra badness on the TFW2005 forums]: "I just got an email from Hachette to say they had misprinted the spine art on issue 1. And hey will send a replacement. Hurrah! Im going to have 3 issues!"</ref> Subscribers received free corrected copies, while those who bought theirs at newsagents had to wait for replacements which were included with issue 7.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14256091 Magnus' Mate on TFW2005]: "Incidentally, the 'corrected' #1 will be available to non-subscribers as well, included free with issue #7!"</ref> Hachette were seen giving away error-stricken copies for free at a signing event at a London comic shop.<ref>[http://forums.millarworld.tv/t/the-trades-thread-hardcovers-graphic-novels-and-more/4923/2359 Millarworld forums (dead link)]</ref> This error shouldn't be confused with the change in spine art for the first four issues made between the limited trial run and the mass release,<ref>[http://www.facebook.com/TransformersG1Collection/posts/1533415153338562?comment_id=1533436356669775&reply_comment_id=1533593929987351 Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection on Facebook]</ref> which means that anyone who subscribed to the series from its trial will end up with ''three'' different copies of issue 1.
* The poster included with issue 1 includes a bio for [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]]... which uses an image of [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]].<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13983869 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "Also: the poster that comes with Volume 1 (Target: 2006) shows some small character bios but goofs up the "Jazz" bio by using a picture of Prowl."</ref>
* The trial versions of issues 1 and 2 had the inside cover art swapped: the "Target: 2006" book had artwork for ''Stormbringer'', and vice versa.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13989359 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "On anybody else's copies, is the inside cover art wrong? I've got Stormbringer art inside the Target:2006 book, and Target:2006 art inside the Stormbringer book."</ref>
* A feature in issue 1 states that the Marvel UK comic sold 200,000 copies per week, when really it only sold 100,000 per week ''at its peak''. This error presumably stems from the fact that Marvel (and other publishers at the time) multiplied their circulation figures by 2.5 to calculate their readership, as they estimated that many issues would be shared between friends and siblings.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>
* Hatchette's own masterings of the comics introduce yet more errors. In issue 1, for example, an instance of '[[Skids (G1)|]]' in dialogue is misspelled as 'Skips'.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14277882 Bass X0 on the TFW2005 forums]: "In Decepticon Graffiti, Skids is called Skips on the second page."</ref> This error was not present in IDW's original reprints.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-13#post-14316444 Magnus' Mate on the TFW2005 forums]: "Except the IDW "Transformers Classics" volume 2 with issue #23 in doesn't have this same problem - Skids is still Skids, not Skips! I know there are other problems with them, but this one is on Hachette."</ref>
* The bio for John Paul Bove included in issue 3 (volume 16) was apparently written by himself in the first person, then edited into the third person—one of the sentences written in first person remains!<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-8#post-14101771 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "There is also a half page bio on JP, which was obviously written by himself in the first person, and then edited to be the third person- but they missed one of the first person senetnces and it is still in there!"</ref>
* Some copies of volume 22 had a number erroneously printed on one of the pages.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-20#post-15179844 rodster6 on the TFW2005 forums]: "Got volume 7 today (which I think is issue 22) and there is a weird number printed randomly on one page that shouldn't be there."</ref>
* The first print run for volume 35 had an error where the last two pages of ''Monstrosity'' #11 were swapped with two from "War and Peace" #3.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-18#post-14880721 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "The last two pages of Monstrosity #11 have been swapped with the ones from W&P #3"</ref>
* Many volumes include pages which are stuck together, though this is easy enough for the reader to fix.
* Though some readers may try to convince you otherwise, [[Mister Johnson]] is not an error.

===Reading order===
*Within individual volumes, Marvel material is segregated between US and UK stories—even when those stories were originally interspersed, with connected narratives!
**The material in volume 2 should be ordered US #5-8, UK #29-32, US #9-10. "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" is a Furman-penned comic from [[Transformers Annual 1985|the 1995 annual]], but it's a standalone flashback that isn't referenced until UK #44. "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" (the other comic from the annual) is set in the present day but doesn't match up with the continuity at large—for some reason it's included as backmatter to volume 13, alongside stories released three years later!
**Volume 3 presents UK #41-50 before US #11-12. This should be the other way around!
**The pack-in comic "[[The Special Teams Have Arrived]]" is absent—but of course, it was completely retold in UK #63-65, included here in volume 4.
**The two comic stories from [[Transformers Annual 1986|the 1986 annual]] aren't directly connected to specific issues; "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" doesn't really fit into continuity at all, but certainly takes place after UK #65—which is where the partwork puts it—while "[[Victory!]]" (which explains what happened to the Dinobots between UK #50 and #65) is placed before UK #74-77, another Dinobot-centric story which touches on its events.
**"[[The Gift]]", UK #93's seasonal story by [[James Hill]], is omitted; it should be placed in volume 6 between US #22 and US #23.
**Volume 8 presents US #28 before UK #113-120, despite it having been published afterwards as UK #121-122.
**The stories from [[Transformers Annual 1987|the 1987 annual]] are scattered. "[[Vicious Circle!]]" is placed in volume 8 alongside UK #113-120, collectively forming the first "post-movie" storyline. "What's In a Name?" is set during UK #135-136, but for some reason is placed after UK #137-138 in volume 11. "[[Ark Duty]]" is also thrown into volume 11, after UK #146-151... despite chronologically taking place some time before that story.
*Presumably as an editorial decision, the partwork omits a large quantity of prose material.
**Marvel UK's prose content is mostly omitted, although it bears mentioning that much of it is tricky to reconcile with the continuity proper anyway. This includes James Hill's four stories from the 1985 and 1986 annuals ("[[Missing in Action]]", "[[Hunted!]]", "[[The Return of the Transformers]]" and "[[State Games]]"), Jamie Delano's "[[The Mission]]" (also from 1986), Furman's in-universe recaps from the 1986 and 1989 annuals ("[[In the Beginning...]]" and "[[The Saga of the Transformers — So Far!]]"), Ian Rimmer's "[[Prime Bomb!]]" (also from 1989), both stories from the 1990 annual ("[[The Quest!]]" and "[[Trigger-Happy!]]"), the 1991 annual's "[[The Magnificent Six!]]", and the 1992 annual's "[[Another Time & Place]]". UK #302's "[[Dreadwind's Xmas!]]" is absent too.
**The various prose stories, profiles and comics first printed with the collected editions of ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers| Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'' are absent.
**Tom Scioli's four-page "[[Black Cybertron]]" prose story from ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe issue 10|#10]] is omitted, along with the creators' commentaries which graced the other issues in the series.

==Covers==
<center><gallery caption="Marvel (US & UK)" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v1.jpg|Vol 1: Power Play
DefinitiveG1Collection v2.jpg|Vol 2: New Order
DefinitiveG1Collection v3.jpg|Vol 3: Dinobot Hunt
DefinitiveG1Collection v4.jpg|Vol 4: Second Generation
DefinitiveG1Collection v5.jpg|Vol 5: The Smelting Pool
DefinitiveG1Collection v6.jpg|Vol 6: Target: 2006
DefinitiveG1Collection v7.jpg|Vol 7: The Harder They Die
DefinitiveG1Collection v8.jpg|Vol 8: Wanted: Galvatron - Dead or Alive
DefinitiveG1Collection v9.jpg|Vol 9: Toy Soldiers
DefinitiveG1Collection v10.jpg|Vol 10: Trial by Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v11.jpg|Vol 11: The Legacy of Unicron
DefinitiveG1Collection v12.jpg|Vol 12: Cosmic Carnival
DefinitiveG1Collection v13.jpg|Vol 13: City of Fear
DefinitiveG1Collection v14.jpg|Vol 14: Space Pirates
DefinitiveG1Collection v15.jpg|Vol 15: Time Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v16.jpg|Vol 16: The Primal Scream
DefinitiveG1Collection v17.jpg|Vol 17: Matrix Quest
DefinitiveG1Collection v18.jpg|Vol 18: Edge of Extinction
DefinitiveG1Collection v19.jpg|Vol 19: Perchance to Dream
DefinitiveG1Collection v20.jpg|Vol 20: End of the Road
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Marvel's Generation 2" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v89.jpg|Vol 89: Realignments
DefinitiveG1Collection v90.jpg|Vol 90: Generation 2 Part 1

</gallery>
<gallery caption="IDW's Regeneration One" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v21.jpg|Vol 21: Regeneration One
DefinitiveG1Collection v22.jpg|Vol 22: Natural Selection
DefinitiveG1Collection v23.jpg|Vol 23: Destiny
DefinitiveG1Collection v24.jpg|Vol 24: The War to End All Wars
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Dreamwave Productions" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v25.jpg|Vol 25: Prime Directive
DefinitiveG1Collection v26.jpg|Vol 26: War and Peace
DefinitiveG1Collection v27.jpg|Vol 27: Worlds Collide Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v28.jpg|Vol 28: Worlds Collide Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v29.jpg|Vol 29: The War Within
DefinitiveG1Collection v30.jpg|Vol 30: War Within: The Dark Ages
DefinitiveG1Collection v31.jpg|Vol 31: The Iron Fist
</gallery>

<gallery caption="2005 IDW continuity" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v32.jpg|Vol 32: Infiltration
DefinitiveG1Collection v33.jpg|Vol 33: Megatron Origin
DefinitiveG1Collection v34.jpg|Vol 34: Autocracy
DefinitiveG1Collection v35.jpg|Vol 35: Primacy
DefinitiveG1Collection v36.jpg|Vol 36: Stormbringer
DefinitiveG1Collection v37.jpg|Vol 37: Escalation
DefinitiveG1Collection v38.jpg|Vol 38: Devastation
DefinitiveG1Collection v39.jpg|Vol 39: Hearts of Steel
DefinitiveG1Collection v40.jpg|Vol 40: Maximum Dinobots
DefinitiveG1Collection v41.jpg|Vol 41: Drift
DefinitiveG1Collection v42.jpg|Vol 42: Revelation
DefinitiveG1Collection v43.jpg|Vol 43: All Hail Megatron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v44.jpg|Vol 44: All Hail Megatron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v45.jpg|Vol 45: Last Stand of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v46.jpg|Vol 46: Things Fall Apart
DefinitiveG1Collection v47.jpg|Vol 47: International Incident
DefinitiveG1Collection v48.jpg|Vol 48: Revenge of the Decepticons
DefinitiveG1Collection v49.jpg|Vol 49: The Iron Age
DefinitiveG1Collection v50.jpg|Vol 50: Heart of Darkness
DefinitiveG1Collection v51.jpg|Vol 51: Chaos Theory
DefinitiveG1Collection v52.jpg|Vol 52: The Death of Optimus Prime
DefinitiveG1Collection v53.jpg|Vol 53: Liars, A to D
DefinitiveG1Collection v54.jpg|Vol 54: A Better Tomorrow
DefinitiveG1Collection v55.jpg|Vol 55: Shadowplay
DefinitiveG1Collection v56.jpg|Vol 56: City On Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v57.jpg|Vol 57: Remain In Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v58.jpg|Vol 58: Shockpoint
DefinitiveG1Collection v59.jpg|Vol 59: Dark Cybertron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v60.jpg|Vol 60: Dark Cybertron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v61.jpg|Vol 61: World Shut Your Mouth
DefinitiveG1Collection v62.jpg|Vol 62: Earthfall
DefinitiveG1Collection v63.jpg|Vol 63: Elegant Chaos
DefinitiveG1Collection v64.jpg|Vol 64: Windblade
DefinitiveG1Collection v65.jpg|Vol 65: Combiner Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v66.jpg|Vol 66: Speak, Memory
DefinitiveG1Collection v67.jpg|Vol 67: Conquerors
DefinitiveG1Collection v68.jpg|Vol 68: Empire of Stone
DefinitiveG1Collection v69.jpg|Vol 69: Sins of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v70.jpg|Vol 70: Punishment
DefinitiveG1Collection v71.jpg|Vol 71: All Hail Optimus
DefinitiveG1Collection v72.jpg|Vol 72: The Dying of the Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v75.jpg|Vol 75: Titans Return, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v76.jpg|Vol 76: Titans Return, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v77.jpg|Vol 77: Dissolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v78.jpg|Vol 78: New Cybertron
DefinitiveG1Collection v79.jpg|Vol 79: Primeless
DefinitiveG1Collection v80.jpg|Vol 80: Requiem of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v81.jpg|Vol 81: Revolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v82.jpg|Vol 82: Revolutionaries
DefinitiveG1Collection v83.jpg|Vol 83: First Strike
DefinitiveG1Collection v84.jpg|Vol 84: The Falling Part 1

</gallery>
<gallery caption="Miscellaneous" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v73.jpg|Vol 73: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v74.jpg|Vol 74: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v92.jpg|Vol 92: Transformers: The Movie
</gallery>

''[[:Category:Definitive G1 Collection covers|Extended cover gallery]]''</center>

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[http://www.transformerscollection.com/ Official website]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Definitive G1 Collection}}
[[Category:Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics continuity comic compilations]]
[[Category:Dreamwave Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Generation 1 comic compilations]]

Revolution

2020-03-02T17:57:58Z

YoungDoctor:

{{disambig2|the IDW Generation 1 crossover event|the Titan movie story arc of the same name|Transformers Comic issue 23}}
[[File:RevolutionLogo.jpg|center|500px]]
[[File:RoadtoRevolution1.jpg|thumb|right|375px|This is the ultimate showdown of ultimate destiny.]]
'''''Revolution''''' is a multi-property crossover event by [[IDW Publishing]] that includes many of [[Hasbro]]'s properties, aiming to amalgamate the separate IDW continuities into a [[Hasbro Universe|new shared universe]]. Running from September to November 2016, it consists of a main five-issue mini-series and eight one-shot tie-ins—one for each of the series crossing over in the story. The five issue mini-series was written by [[John Barber]] and [[Cullen Bunn]] (writer of IDW's ''{{i|Micronauts (comic)|Micronauts}}''), with art by [[Fico Ossio]]. The tie-ins were handled by each book's respective creative teams.

January 2017 saw the launch of ''[[Revolutionaries]]'', a team-book featuring various ''Transformers'' and ''Revolution'' characters, including [[Kup (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Kup]], [[G.B. Blackrock|Garrison Blackrock]], and [[Ayana Jones]].<ref>http://www.cbr.com/barber-ossios-revolutionaries-expands-the-idwhasbro-universe/</ref>

''Revolution'' was followed by the ''[[Reconstruction]]'' post-event branding, designed as a jumping-on point for new readers. Later on, ''Revolution'' received a sequel of sorts, ''[[First Strike]]''.

{{chapters|title=''Revolution'' issues:'''|prev=Titans Return (comic)|next=Reconstruction|content=
<div class="list-header">"Road to Revolution" - ''Till All Are One''</div>
*[[07:00:00|#1]]
*[[Applicable Skills|#2]]
*[[Things We Said We'd Never Do|#3]]
*[[The Line Between Us|#4]]
 <div class="list-header">"Road to Revolution" - ''Titans Return''</div>
*''Titans Return'' [[The Last Autobot|#1]]
*''The Transformers'' [[White Light|#56]]
*[[White Heat|#57]]
*''More than Meets the Eye'' [[Ten to Midnight|#56]]
*[[Last Light (issue)|#57]]
 <div class="list-header">''Revolution''</div>
*[[Secret Raiders: A Revolution Prelude|#0]]
*[[Concorde Hymn|#1]]
*[[The Divine Source of Liberty|#2]]
*[[O Ship of State|#3]]
*[[The New Colossus|#4]]
*[[Valley Forge|#5]]
 <div class="list-header">''Revolution'' one-shots</div>
*''{{i|Field Test|ROM}}''
*''{{i|M.A.S.K.: Revolution|M.A.S.K.}}''
*''{{i|Micronauts: Revolution|Micronauts}}''
*''[[Thundercracker & Buster Save the World|The Transformers]]''
*''[[The Modern World|Action Man]]''
*''[[Informed|Till All Are One]]''
*''[[D.T.A.|G.I. Joe]]''
*''[[Nothing Will Ever Be the Same Again!|More than Meets the Eye]]''
}}
{{note|Of the one-shot ''Revolution'' tie-in issues, TFWiki covers only those featuring [[Transformer]]s in a significant capacity.}}

==Conception==
According to John Barber's forward in the ''Revolution'' trade paperback, the shared universe concept came not from Hasbro, but from himself, [[Chris Ryall]], and [[David Hedgecock]]. The three of them came up with the idea and then contacted [[Michael Kelly]] to get Hasbro on-board. Barber talked with Cullen Bunn, who was already planning on sending the Micronauts to Earth, and suggested that it be the same Earth as the Transformers. From there they wove in the rest of Hasbro's properties, with [[Andrew Griffith]] establishing a timeline to make their already-established ''Transformers'' and ''G.I. Joe'' stories fit together.

==Build-up==
IDW's slate of new Hasbro licenses was announced from mid-2015 onwards: ''{{w|Rom (comics)|ROM}}'' and ''{{w|Micronauts}}'' in July [[2015]], ''{{w|Action Man}}'' in October 2015, and finally ''{{w|M.A.S.K.}}'' in May [[2016]]. The next month, ''Revolution'' was announced, a five-issue crossover that would unite those four properties with ''[[Transformers brand|Transformers]]'' and ''[[G.I. Joe (franchise)|G.I. Joe]]'' – not as a one-time-only deal, but to established a shared fictional world in which all those characters would co-exist. Much was made of the fact that no continuity was being discarded – the existing IDW ''Transformers'' and ''G.I. Joe'' stories were handwaved into having happened in the same universe all along, all their stories and characters intact; the ''Jem and the Holograms'' comic which began publishing in 2015 has been stated to have also been placed into the new shared universe, but did not appear in ''Revolution'' for "reasons of tone" compared to the other titles.

Whilst ''Micronauts'' was the first new book to debut, explicit build-up for ''Revolution''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s shared world began with the initial issues ''ROM'' and ''Action Man''. Both books made reference to the events happening at [[Monument Valley]] in the pages of ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|The Transformers]]'', whilst ''ROM'' also incorporated a number of ''G.I. Joe'' characters into its debut storyline. Around this time, IDW also released a [[Secret Raiders: A Revolution Prelude|prelude issue]] of ''Revolution'' through various avenues, which recapped the essentials of the previous ''Transformers'' and ''G.I. Joe'' stories, and set the stage for the main crossover event.

On the ''Transformers'' side of things, both the debut arc of ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' and the ''[[Titans Return (comic)|Titans Return]]'' crossover were billed on their covers as being lead-ins to ''Revolution'', although only the latter featured any significant tie-ins to the event.

==Overview==
Several months have passed since [[Optimus Prime (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Optimus Prime]]'s controversial annexation of [[Earth]] into the [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertronian]] [[Council of Worlds]]. On Earth, the political situation remains volatile as [[human]]ity struggles to come to terms with the actions of the Transformers, viewing them with distrust. The tensions heighten after Earth's deposits of [[Ore-13]] start to rapidly destabilize, threatening Earth with nuclear annihilation.

Believing the Transformers to be at fault, the [[President of the United States]] makes the decision to reactivate America's highly-trained special mission force [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]] to counter the mechanical invaders. Unbeknownst to the government, G.I. Joe's ranks have been infiltrated by an entirely different race of alien shapeshifters: the evil wizards known as [[Dire Wraith]]s – also drawn to Earth's supplies of Ore-13 – in a conspiracy that spreads all the way up to [[Joe Colton]] himself. The Wraith masquerading as Colton contacts his old [[Adventure Team (G.I. Joe)|Adventure Team]] friend [[Miles Mayhem|Miles Manheim]], hoping to reverse-engineer [[Blitzwing (G1)|captured Cybertronian assets]] into a mechanical [[M.A.S.K.|strike force]] in order to fight back. Manheim, however, has cut a deal with the extradimensional conqueror [[Baron Karza]] - in exchange for Earth's deposits of Ore-13 to save Karza's [[Microspace|dimension]] from a destructive [[entropy storm]], Manheim will receive dominion over Earth.

When the Autobot base [[Metrotitan (Zone)|Metrotitan]] abruptly goes silent, Optimus Prime calls [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]] to Earth in the hopes of using her [[cityspeaker|cityspeaking]] skills to diagnose the problem. Before long, however, Prime and his allies are dispatched to [[Portland]] when Joe Colton takes the fight to Transformers. The battle is interrupted by [[Rom|Rom the Space Knight]], who annihilates the Wraiths within the ranks of the Joes and forces the Autobots to pursue the alien. Meanwhile, [[Kup (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Kup]] and [[Aileron]] discover the true problem with Ore-13, but are ambushed by M.A.S.K., with Miles Mayhem taking Kup prisoner.

Optimus and Rom reach an understanding and the Space Knight accompanies them back to Metrotitan, just as Windblade returns from a mental voyage into [[Microspace]], where she encountered its progenitor [[Micronus Prime]]. Her desire to save this dying dimension runs up against Optimus Prime's orders to protect Earth first, but Rom's recklessness prompts Prime to realize that both Earth and Microspace must be saved; meanwhile, in Microspace, the adventurous [[Micronaut]]s head into the fray as part of a deal with the devil.

Meanwhile, the restless Decepticon [[Thundercracker (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Thundercracker]] finds himself protecting the President and her entourage from a team of Dire Wraiths. The extraterrestrial activity on Earth prompts the attention of the UK-based [[Action Man Programme]], prompting them to deploy their top agent [[Action Man]] to retrieve Kup from beneath [[Governor's Island]]. Ian and Kup form a friendship as they return to Monument Valley, now under siege by the combined forces of MASK and the Dire Wraiths. As the battle intensifies, Baron Karza finally reveals himself as the perpetrator behind it all, fusing with Wraith [[magic]] and M.A.S.K. technology to transform himself into a colossal monster. The arrival of G.I. Joe turns the advantage towards the Autobots and their allies; with the help of the Micronauts and repentant M.A.S.K. pilot [[Matt Trakker]], they succeed in forcing Karza back into his dimension, ending the threat to Earth.

A side story focuses on the adventures of the [[Scavenger (group)|Scavengers]] as they head to Earth so that [[Crankcase (G1)|Crankcase]] can go on a date with [[CONS4EVA|someone he met online]].

==Recommended reading order==
*''Revolution'' #0-1
*''ROM: Revolution''
*''M.A.S.K.: Mobile Armored Strike Kommand: ''Revolution''
*''Revolution'' #2
*''The Transformers: Till All Are One: Revolution''
*''Micronauts: Revolution''
*''Revolution'' #3
*''G.I. Joe: Revolution''
*''The Transformers: Revolution''
*''Action Man: Revolution''
*''Revolution'' #4-5
*''The Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye: Revolution''

==Collections==
*'''''Revolution''''' ([[February 8]], [[2017]]) ISBN 163140816X / ISBN 978-1631408168 
:*Contains ''Revolution'' issues #0 to #5.
:*Bonus material includes a foreword by John Barber and a cover gallery.

*'''''Revolution: Heroes''''' ([[March 8]], [[2017]]) ISBN 1631408410 / ISBN 978-1631408410 
:*Contains the ''ROM'', ''M.A.S.K.'', ''Micronauts'', ''G.I. Joe'', and ''Action Man'' one-shots.
:*Bonus material includes a cover gallery.

*'''''Revolution: Transformers''''' ([[March 8]], [[2017]]) ISBN 1631408429 / ISBN 978-1631408427 
:*Contains the ''Till All Are One'', ''The Transformers'', and ''More than Meets the Eye'' one-shots, as well as ''[[The Transformers Holiday Special]]''.
:*Bonus material UNKNOWN.

*'''''Revolution''''' ([[March 29]], [[2017]]) ISBN 978-1631409370
**Hardcover, exclusively sold through the comic book direct market.
**Contains ''Revolution'' #0–5 and all one-shots.
**Bonus material includes a cover gallery.

<gallery>
File:Revolution-TPB.jpg|''Revolution'' TPB cover by [[Tradd Moore]] and [[Felipe Subreiro]]
File:Revolution-Heroes.jpg|''Revolution: Heroes'' TPB cover by [[Brandon Peterson]]
File:Revolution-Transformers-TPB.jpg|''Revolution: Transformers'' TPB cover by [[Marcelo Matere]]
File:Revolution-HC.jpg|''Revolution'' Direct Market Hardcover by [[James Biggie]]
</gallery>

==Toys==
[[File:SDCC Revolution.jpg|thumb|300px|What, no [[Ayana Jones|Mayday]]?]]
In a surprising move, as a tie into the crossover almost a year after it happened, Hasbro released a ''Revolution''-branded boxset as an [[exclusive]] at [[San Diego Comic-Con]] 2017. In addition to a re-release of [[Transformers Legends (franchise)|''Legends'']] [[Jetfire (G1)/toys#Legends|Jetfire]], the Revolution set includes ''[[G.I. Joe (franchise)|G.I. Joe]]''-scaled toys of [[Roadblock (G.I. Joe)#Revolution|Roadblock]], [[Rom#Revolution|Rom the Space Knight]], a [[Dire Wraith#Revolution|Dire Wraith]], [[Action Man#Revolution|Action Man]], [[Matt Trakker#Revolution|Matt Trakker]], and — in a surprising, possibly [[Transformers vs. Visionaries|foreshadowing]] move — Leoric of the [[Visionaries]]. On top of that, the set also includes a large set of non-articulated [[Micronauts]] minifigures.

In a cute touch, Roadblock has a figure stand emblazoned with the ''G.I. Joe'' logo, while the other characters all have generic stands. The box's summary for the conflict it depicts is taken directly from the blurb of the ''Revolution'' TPB... which means that Leoric and the Visionaries don't get mentioned at all.

==See also==
*{{i|Main Page|IDW Hasbro Wiki Main Page}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Crossovers]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) comic series]]
[[Category:Revolution issues| ]]

Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection

2020-02-19T13:04:38Z

YoungDoctor:

[[File:Definitive G1 Collection in full.jpg|thumb|upright=3.05|4/5 of a grand tale.]]

'''Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection''' is a fortnightly 100-volume partwork from [[Hachette]], edited by [[Simon Furman]]. Partworks are a Hachette specialty: a series will be collected out of order (the first ''Definitive'' was volume 6) for commercial purposes but can be collected on your shelf in order with a fancy picture on the collective spines. The collection aims to republish every single "Generation 1" comic ever made, including the original [[Marvel Comics]] run—UK and US—in order for the very first time. Each issue has a special cover and bonus content, and [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)#Fantastic Free Gift.21|Fantastic FREE! Gifts]] are provided for subscribers. Marvel UK strips which were originally printed in black-and-white have been given brand new colours by [[John-Paul Bove]] using emulations of both 1980s American and latter-day Marvel UK techniques.<ref>"A Different Approach to Colour", Vol.16</ref> These include "[[Raiders of the Last Ark]]" in volume 1 and many later strips starting with "[[Race with the Devil]]" in volume 16.

The series was initially announced in September 2016 to contain 60 issues—ending with the ''Dark Cybertron'' crossover—but by the time of its launch in December, it had already been extended to 80 issues, with volume 80 providing some closure in the form of ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One| Till All Are One]]'' and ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers| Requiem of the Wreckers]]''. In 2018, upon the conclusion of IDW's first continuity, fan observed that it would take around ten extra volumes to reprint the entire IDW catalogue—and on the 18th of July 2019, Simon Furman confirmed on Twitter that the collection had been extended by ''twenty'' issues for a total of 100.

Sounds great, right?

Well... not if you live outside the [[United Kingdom]] and [[Ireland]]. The partwork was given a trial-run in parts of the UK before a national release started in early 2017. In August 2017, the subscription also became available in [[Australia]],<ref>[http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?s=438cea1ad48786466241053a45f743ae&t=24685 Ozformers Transformers Club of Australia]: UK Definitive Comic collection from Hachette now in Australia</ref> but became unavailable in July 2018 due to the closure of the Australian distributor. In January 2019, it became available in [[Poland]],<ref>[https://transformers-kolekcja.pl/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIrYTRuabz3wIVl-F3Ch2P7wirEAAYASAAEgJKLvD_BwE Polish version of official site]</ref> with volumes being released in proper chronological order.

Even for those who were able to subscribe, the partwork ended up not being quite as ''definitive'' as advertised. The reprints of Marvel US material were taken from IDW's ''Transformers Classic'' 'remasters', complete with newly-introduced typos and haphazard attempts to 'fix' errors. As such, many of the minor edits made to those stories for their original UK printings (to better jive with Furman's expanded continuity) are absent.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-9#post-14167234 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "In order to smooth over the continuity cracks between the UK and US stories, the US books were usually edited (US#16-24 were especially affected) for their UK printing. But rather than the UK edits of the American stories, we get the familiar US versions. <nowiki>[...]</nowiki> Oh, and on page 214, there's a factual error as well, when it states that Transformers UK sold 200,000 copies per week. That's completely false. It actually sold 100,000 copies per week at its peak. That said, each individual comic sold would tend to be read by a number of people, as kids lent or gave their comics to siblings or school friends. It was calculated that, on average, each comic sold would be read by two-point-five people. Marvel (and other comic publishers such as Fleetway or IPC) would therefore take the ''actual'' circulation figures and apply this 2.5 multiplier to give a total readership that did exceed two hundred thousand on occasion. So whilst the ''readership'' was arguably 250K-plus, the true ''number of copies'' sold was nowhere near that figure.</ref> Furthermore, thanks to the dreadfully-flat colouring of the ''Classics'' reprints, John Paul Bove's newly-coloured versions of the black-and-white UK strips—intended to match surrounding US stories—end up looking out of place anyway!

Cover galleries include the covers for both the US and UK stories, but ''not'' the UK-exclusive covers for US stories. Additionally, it's apparent that Hatchette mapped out the partwork with the intent of being the first company to reprint the latter-day Dreamwave material such as [[Transformers: Generation 1 (Dreamwave)|the Sunstorm arc]] and ''[[Transformers: Micromasters| Micromasters]]'', in volumes 27 and 28—but those volumes wound up containing issues from Dreamwave's ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)| Armada]]'' comic, which merely guest-starred G1 characters and seem very out of place in a "Definitive ''G1'' Collection". Presumably, this late change occurred for the same reason those stories have never been reprinted in the first place—nobody's sure whether the creative teams were actually ''paid'' for their work.

To make matters worse, the order in which much of the material is presented—particularly with IDW's stories—can often only be described as ''baffling''. Furthermore, many issues were first printed with glaring errors, and Hatchette's own notoriously-bad customer service made obtaining corrected replacements a nightmare for many subscribers.

==Volumes==
{{note|Each volume contains cover art from the original issues, plus a new introduction by Simon Furman. The bonus features below are in addition to these.}}
{| class="wikitable sortable"
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Vol.
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Issue
! scope="col" style="width: 125px;" | Title
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Contents
! scope="col" style="width: 250px;" | Bonus Features
! scope="col" style="width: 5px;" | Release date
|-
| 06
| 01
|Target: 2006
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Target: 2006|#78–88]] [[Cybertron: The Middle Years!]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Aerialbots over America!|#21]]–[[Decepticon Graffiti!|23]]
| A guide to the launch of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' in the UK and its marketing purposes for Marvel UK.
|[[December 30|30/12]]/[[2016]]
|-
| 36
| 02
| Stormbringer
| ''[[Spotlight: Shockwave]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Soundwave]]'' [[The Transformers: Stormbringer|''Stormbringer'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Nightbeat]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Hot Rod]]''
| An article on the beginning of IDW-verse production and several sketches by Figueroa.
|[[January 11|11/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 16
| 03
| The Primal Scream
| [[Cold Comfort and Joy!|Marvel UK #198]], [[The Fall and Rise of the Decepticon Empire.|#213]]–[[Survivors!|222]] [[Back from the Dead|Marvel US #56]]–[[The Primal Scream|61]]
| An overview of the change in format of the UK series and the introduction of 5-page black-and-white strips, and an article by Bove on the colouring techniques used at Marvel UK and Marvel US in the 1980s, and how he emulated them for colourising the UK strips.
|[[January 27|27/01]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 18
| 04
| Edge of Extinction
| [[Rhythms of Darkness!|Marvel US #67]]–[[On the Edge of Extinction!|75]]
| An overview of [[Unicron/Generation 1#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel's Unicron]] and a spotlight on [[Andrew Wildman]].
|[[February 8|08/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 29
| 05
| The War Within
| [[Transformers: The War Within|The War Within #1–6]] and [[The War Within Preview|preview]]
| Various character design sketches by [[Don Figueroa]] and an article on the making of ''The War Within''.
|[[February 22|22/02]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 37
| 06
| Escalation
| ''[[Spotlight: Sixshot]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Ultra Magnus]]'' [[The Transformers: Escalation|''Escalation'' #1–6]]
| Sketches by [[E. J. Su]], bios on [[Ultra Magnus (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|IDW Ultra Magnus]] & [[Sixshot#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Sixshot]], an article on creating the IDW ''Spotlights'', and an interview with Su. 
|[[March 8|08/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 08
| 07
| Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive
| [[King of the Hill!|Marvel US #27]]–[[Mechanical Difficulties!|28]] [[Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive!|Marvel UK #113]]–[[Fire on High!|120]] "[[Vicious Circle!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]])
| An overview of the Marvel UK Annuals and a bio on [[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Goldbug]].
|[[March 22|22/03]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 39
| 08
| Hearts of Steel
| [[Hearts of Steel|''Hearts of Steel'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Galvatron]], [[Spotlight: Optimus Prime]], [[Spotlight: Mirage]]''
| Concept art by [[Guido Guidi]] and an article about the creation of ''Hearts of Steel''.
|[[April 5|05/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 10
| 09
| Trial by Fire
| [[The Transformers: Headmasters|Headmasters #1–4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Trial by Fire!|#38]]–[[The Desert Island of Space!|39]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Worlds Apart!|#130]]–[[Kup's Story!|132]]
| A retrospective on the [[The Transformers: Headmasters|''Headmasters'' miniseries]] and an overview of how Marvel UK handled toy marketing.
| [[April 19|19/04]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 21
| 10
| Regeneration One
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Counterpoint|#80.5]]–[[Loose Ends, Part 5|85]]
| A commentary on [[Loose Ends, Part 1|issue #81]] by Simon Furman, an overview on production leading up to ''Regeneration One'', and several cover sketches.
| [[May 3|03/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 31
| 11
| The Iron Fist
| [[Transformers/G.I. Joe|Transformers/G.I. Joe #1–6]]
| Various character design sketches by Figueroa and an overview of the many [[G.I. Joe crossovers]] across the comics.
| [[May 17|17/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 50
| 12
| Heart of Darkness
| [[Infestation (IDW)|''The Transformers: Infestation'' #1–2]] [[The Transformers: Heart of Darkness|''Heart of Darkness'' #1–4]]
| A post-mortem on "[[Zombie|Zombots]]" across the various comics and a bio on [[Hardhead (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Hardhead]].
| [[May 31|31/05]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 59
| 13
| Dark Cybertron, Part 1
| [[Dark Dawn: Dark Cybertron Chapter 1|''Dark Cybertron'' one-shot]] [[Little Victories|''More than Meets the Eye'' #22]]–[[No Exit: Dark Cybertron Chapter 6|25]] [[Winners & Losers: Dark Cybertron Chapter 3|''Robots in Disguise'' #23]]–[[Finest Hour: Dark Cybertron Chapter 5|24]]
| A bio on the [[Titan (group)|Titans]] and the making of ''Dark Cybertron'' with [[John Barber]] and James Roberts.
| [[June 14|14/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 01
| 14
| Power Play
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Transformers (issue)|#1]]–[[The Last Stand|4]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Man of Iron (issue)|#9]]–[[Raiders of the Last Ark|#21]]
| The alternate ending of [[The Last Stand|Marvel US #4]], unused artwork from [[The Transformers (issue)|issue #1]] by [[Frank Springer]], and an overview of how Marvel UK first approached The Transformers.
| [[June 28|28/06]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 26
| 15
| War and Peace
| ''[[War and Peace|Transformers: Generation 1 vol. 2]]'' #1–6 and [[Transformers Volume 2 Preview|preview]]
| Top 10 Easter eggs for "[[War and Peace]]" and scorecards listing each faction and their crew members during the arc.
| [[July 12|12/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 35
| 16
| Primacy
| [[The Transformers: Monstrosity|''Monstrosity'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Primacy|''Primacy'' #1–4]]
| An interview with [[Flint Dille]] about his work on the G1 cartoon and his involvement in the ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy|Autocracy]]'' trilogy.
| [[July 26|26/07]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 64
| 17
| Windblade
| [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 1 #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[Onyx Interface Part One: Signals, Calls, and Marches|#35]]–[[The Onyx Interface Conclusion: The Obliterati|38]]
| A bio for [[Windblade (G1)|Windblade]], an overview of her conception, pictures of her ''[[Transformers: Generations#Thrilling 30 .282013.E2.80.932014.29|Thrilling 30]]'' toy, and early design sketches by Hasbro.
| [[August 9|09/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 19
| 18
| Perchance to Dream
| [[Out to Lunch!|Marvel UK #240]]–[[...Perchance to Dream|260]] [[Still Life!|Marvel US #76]]–[[Exodus!|77]]
| A Marvel UK ''Classic Heroes Competition!'' page, an overview of Furman's attempts to connect Marvel UK's black-and-white strips to the US stories and how he would eventually have to abandon doing so, an article on the "[[Two Megatrons!]]" confusion, and a bio on [[Thunderwing (G1)#Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Thunderwing]].
| [[August 23|23/08]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 40
| 19
| Maximum Dinobots
| [[The Transformers: Maximum Dinobots|''Maximum Dinobots'' #1–5]] ''[[Spotlight: Grimlock]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Wheelie]]''
| Dinobot sketches by [[Nick Roche]] and [[Klaus Scherwinski]]'s ''Spotlight: Wheelie'' sketchbook.
| [[September 6|06/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 22
| 20
| Natural Selection
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Natural Selection, Part One|#86]]–[[Natural Selection, Part Five|90]] "[[Peace]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]])
| An overview of the [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Marvel ''Generation 2'' comic]] and several cover sketches.
| [[September 20|20/09]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 46
| 21
| Things Fall Apart
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Things Fall Apart, Part 1: "New Arrivals, Old Encounters"|#2]]–[[Scrapper (issue)|8]]
| Character design sketches by Figueroa, an extract from ''[[Decepticomments]]'' from [[Things Fall Apart, Part 3: "Seasons in Flight"|''The Transformers'' #4]] by [[Mike Costa]], and a bio on [[Swindle (G1)#2005 IDW continuity|IDW Swindle]].
| [[October 4|04/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 07
| 22
| The Harder They Die
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Prey!|#96]]–[[Resurrection!|104]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Afterdeath!|#24]]–[[Funeral for a Friend!|26]]
| An analysis of [[the many deaths of Optimus Prime]] in Generation 1.
| [[October 18|18/10]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 33
| 23
| Megatron: Origin
| [[The Transformers: Megatron Origin|''Megatron: Origin'' #1–4]] ''[[Spotlight: Blurr]]'', ''[[Omega's Conundrum|Spotlight: Orion Pax]]''
| A discussion of the production stages on ''Megatron: Origin'' by [[Eric Holmes]].
| [[November 1|01/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 14
| 24
| Space Pirates
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Wrecking Havoc|#172–173]], [[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|#180]]–[[Dry Run!|189]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|#43]] & [[The Man in the Machine!|#51]], "[[Altered Image!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]])
| How Marvel UK incorporated ''[[The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|The Big Broadcast of 2006]]'' into the timeline.
| [[November 15|15/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 43
| 25
| All Hail Megatron, Part 1
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #1–8]]
| An article on creating ''All Hail Megatron'', character design sketches by Guidi, and the series pitch by [[Shane McCarthy]].
| [[November 29|29/11]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 52
| 26
| The Death of Optimus Prime
| [[Chaos (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1 #24, 26, 28, 30, 31]] ''[[Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime|The Death of Optimus Prime]]''
| An interview with [[James Roberts]] on how he worked his way up to become an ongoing writer, and character design sketches by [[Livio Ramondelli]].
| [[December 13|13/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 44
| 27
| All Hail Megatron, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: All Hail Megatron|''All Hail Megatron'' #9–16]]
| A ''Decepticon Roll Call'' with mini-bios, and trivia about ''All Hail Megatron'' [[All Hail Megatron issue 13|#13]]–[[All Hail Megatron issue 16|16]], pointing out notable plot points in the ''Coda'' issues.
| [[December 27|27/12]]/[[2017]]
|-
| 20
| 28
| End of the Road
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Starting Over!|#261]]–[[End of the Road! (UK)|289]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[A Savage Circle|#78]]–[[End of the Road! (US)|80]]
| Articles about the ends of the US and UK series, including discussion of "[[Another Time & Place]]," the final letters page from #80, and script pages from #80.
| [[January 10|10/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 72
| 29
| The Dying of the Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Dying of the Light: (1) How Bright Their Frail Deeds|#50]]–[[The Dying of the Light Part 6: Do Not Go Gentle|55]]
| The bonus story "[[No Guns, No Swords, No Briefcases]] and essential background material on the [[Decepticon Justice Division|DJD]]
| [[January 24|24/01]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 75
| 30
| Titans Return, Part 1
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[07:00:00|#1]]–[[The Line Between Us|4]] [[The Last Autobot|''Titans Return'' one-shot]] [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[White Light|#56]]–[[White Heat|57]] ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Ten to Midnight|#56]]–[[Last Light (issue)|57]]
| "Creating the IDW-Verse" — a two-page article on the beginning of ''More than Meets the Eye'' and ''Robots in Disguise''.
| [[February 7|07/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 60
| 31
| Dark Cybertron, Part 2
| [[The Dead Are Not Enough: Dark Cybertron Chapter 7|''Robots in Disguise'' #25]]–[[Black Planet: Dark Cybertron Chapter 11|27]] [[Burning Bright: Dark Cybertron Chapter 8|''More than Meets the Eye'' #26]]–[[The Becoming: Dark Cybertron Chapter 10|27]] [[...And the Damage Done: Dark Cybertron Finale|''Dark Cybertron: Finale'' one-shot]]
| A blow-by-blow account of Dark Cybertron's hidden secrets
| [[February 21|21/02]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 71
| 32
| All Hail Optimus
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[All Hail Optimus Part 1: Once Upon a Time on Earth|#50]]–[[All Hail Optimus Part 6: No Fair Fights|55]]
| Background material on the [[Council of Worlds]]
| [[March 7|07/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 02
| 33
| New Order
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The New Order|#5]]–[[The Next Best Thing to Being There!|#10]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Decepticon Dam-Busters!|#29]]–[[The Wrath of Grimlock!|#32]] "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1995]])
| Insights into Marvel UK's efforts to ease the transition between the US and UK material
| [[March 21|21/03]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 03
| 34
| Dinobot Hunt
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Christmas Breaker!|#41]]–[[Dinobot Hunt!|50]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Brainstorm!|#11]]–[[Prime Time!|#12]]
| A look at the UK [[Christmas]] story tradition
| [[April 4|04/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 23
| 35
| Destiny
| [[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]] [[Destiny, Part One|#91]]–[[Destiny, Part Five|95]], [[Less Than Zero|#0]] "[[Destiny of the Dinobots!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| A feature on Regeneration One issue #0 and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[April 18|18/04]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 30
| 36
| War Within: The Dark Ages
| [[Transformers: War Within: The Dark Ages|''War Within: The Dark Ages'' #1–6]]
| Synopsis of ''[[Transformers: War Within: The Age of Wrath|War Within: the Age of Wrath]]'', including art from unfinished issues.
| [[May 2|02/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 45
| 37
| Last Stand of the Wreckers
| [[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers|''Last Stand of the Wreckers'' #1–5]] ''[[Ride-Along|Spotlight: Prowl]]'' [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[...For All Mankind|#1]]
| Interview with [[Nick Roche]], pre-production sketches and story drafts
| [[May 16|16/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 49
| 38
| The Iron Age
| [[The Transformers: Ironhide|''Ironhide'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Space Opera Part 1: The Stars My Destination|#19]]–[[Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix|21 ("Space Opera—Final Tableaux: Orphans of the Helix" only)]].
| Casey Coller's ''Ironhide'' sketchbook
| [[May 30|30/05]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 11
| 39
| The Legacy of Unicron
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Headhunt|#133]]–[[Ladies' Night (issue)|138]], "[[What's in a Name?]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]), [[The Legacy of Unicron!|#146–151]] "[[Ark Duty]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1987|Annual 1997]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Pretender to the Throne!|#40]]–[[Totaled!|41]]
| A feature on the origins of the origin of the Transformers
| [[June 13|13/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 17
| 40
| Matrix Quest
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Bird of Prey!|#62]]–[[All Fall Down|66]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Aspects of Evil!|#223]]–[[A Savage Place!|239]] "[[The Chain Gang!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]])
| Features on the stories behind "Matrix Quest" and, Marvel UK's crossover "[[Deathbringer (Marvel)|Deathbringer]]" saga
| [[June 27|27/06]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 73
| 41
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 1
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[The Golden Boys|#0]]–[[Headmasters (issue)|7]]
| A creator commentary on issue #0 and an exclusive interview with [[Tom Scioli]]
| [[July 11|11/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 76
| 42
| Titans Return, Part 2
| [[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]] [[Ping|#5]]–[[If I Know You|11]]
| Article on ''[[Revolution]]''
| [[July 25|25/07]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 62
| 43
| Earthfall
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Earthfall Part 1: Hello Cruel World|#28]]–[[The Crucible|34]]
| The lowdown on the (new) human cast and rare promotional posters for the [[Dawn of the Autobots]] event
| [[August 8|08/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 04
| 44
| Second Generation
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Shooting Star!|#13]]–[[Plight of the Bumblebee!|16]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Robot Buster!|#59]]–[[Second Generation!|65]] "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]])
| The story behind Marvel UK's Special Teams promotion
| [[August 22|22/08]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 32
| 45
| Infiltration
| [[The Transformers: Infiltration|''Infiltration'' #0–6]]
| An article on "Creating the IDW-Verse: From the Ground Up", "The Pitch" - Furman's original pitch to IDW for Infiltration, and some sketches by [[E. J. Su]].
| [[September 5|05/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 24
| 46
| The War to End All Wars
| ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]]'' [[The War to End All Wars, Part 1|#96]]–[[The War to End All Wars, Part 5|100]]
| the prose story "[[King of Shadows]]" and rare/unseen sketchbook art
| [[September 19|19/09]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 28
| 47
| Worlds Collide Part 2
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Worlds Collide|#14]]–[[The_End|18]] [[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye#Issue .238|Dreamwave's ''More than Meets the Eye'' #8]]
| A brief overview of Dreamwave's [[Transformers: Energon (comic)|Energon comic]] and a bonus glossary section dedicated entirely to background material from the Dreamwave G1-verse
| [[October 3|03/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 42
| 48
| Revelation
| ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]: [[Spotlight: Arcee|Arcee]], [[Spotlight: Cyclonus|Cyclonus]], [[Spotlight: Hardhead|Hardhead]], [[Spotlight: Doubledealer|Doubledealer]], [[Spotlight: Sideswipe|Sideswipe]], [[Spotlight: Jazz|Jazz]], [[Spotlight: Metroplex|Metroplex]]''
| "-Ations" retrospective, sketchbook art from Alex Milne and E. J. Su reprinted from individual ''Spotlights''
| [[October 17|17/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 65
| 49
| Combiner Wars
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[First Contact (IDW)|#39]]–[[Now and On Earth|42]] [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2 #1–4]]
| An article on the [[Prime Wars Trilogy]]
| [[October 31|31/10]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 79
| 50
| Primeless
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Life of Sideswipe|#9]]–[[Primeless, Part 2|12]] ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light|Lost Light]]'' [[Chasing the Infinite|#9]]–[[The Plotters' Club (Part 3): Journey's End|12]]
| A one-page editorial by Simon Furman that mentions the IDW universe's impending end
| [[November 14|14/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 12
| 51
| Cosmic Carnival
| [[Stargazing|Marvel UK #145]], [[Enemy Action!|152–153]], [[Salvage!|160–161]] [[People Power!|Marvel US #42]], [[The Cosmic Carnival|44]]–[[Ca$h and Car-nage!|46]]
| A behind-the-scenes look at the UK-only return of Megatron
| [[November 28|28/11]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 25
| 52
| Prime Directive
| [[Prime Directive|''Tranformers: Generation 1'' vol. 1 #1–6]] (plus [[Prime Directive Preview|Preview]])
| A two-page article on 'the in-between years' covering the time when no-one had the ''Transformers'' licence for comics.
| [[December 12|12/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 53
| 53
| Liars, A to D
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Liars, A to D Part 1: How to Say Goodbye and Mean It|#1]]–[[Interiors|6]], ''[[The Reluctant Specialist|Spotlight: Trailcutter]]'' and ''[[The Waiting Game|Spotlight: Hoist]]''
| An all-new interview with James Roberts, rare archive material from the dawn of MTMTE, Alex Milne's sketchbook.
| [[December 26|26/12]]/[[2018]]
|-
| 55
| 54
| Shadowplay
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Rules of Disengagement (issue)|#7]]–[[More than Meets the Eye issue 13|13]], plus the [[Primus: You, Me, and Other Revelations|2012 Annual]]
| The second of a new three-part interview with Roberts, early pages of scripts, and design sketches from Alex Milne.
| [[January 9|09/01]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 13
| 55
| City of Fear
| [[City of Fear!|Marvel UK #164]]–[[Deadly Games!|171]] [[Club Con!|Marvel US #47]]–[[Dark Star|50]] "[[Dreadwing Down!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1990|Annual 1990]]) "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1985|Annual 1985]])
| A behind-the scenes look at a sea change moment for the US comic (Furman's takeover as head writer) and a [[Bob Budiansky]] sketchbook.
| [[January 23|23/01]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 41
| 56
| Drift
| [[The Transformers: Drift|''The Transformers: Drift'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlight:]] ''[[Spotlight: Drift|Drift]]'', ''[[Spotlight: Blaster]]''
| An article on creating Drift and some design sketches by [[Guido Guidi]].
| [[February 6|06/02]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 74
| 57
| Transformers vs G.I. Joe, Part 2
| ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[Pax Megatronus|#8]]–[[The War Never Ends|13]]
| No extras, but still has the cover art and intro from Furman present on all issues.
| [[February 20|20/02]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 47
| 58
| International Incident
| [[The Transformers: Bumblebee|''The Transformers: Bumblebee'' #1–4]] [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[International Incident Part 1: "The Land Ironclads"|#9]]–[[International Incident Part 4: "All My Sins Remembered"|12]]
| An interview with [[Zander Cannon]] and breakdowns for pages 1–4 of each issue of the ''Bumblebee'' mini-series.
| [[March 6|06/03]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 05
| 59
| The Smelting Pool
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[The Smelting Pool!|#17]]–[[Showdown!|#20]] "[[Victory!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1986|Annual 1996]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[In the National Interest|#74–77]]
|Background material on the [[Cybertron (planet)|planet Cybertron]] with map.
| [[March 20|20/03]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 54
| 60
| A Better Tomorrow
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[The Autonomy Lesson (issue)|#1]]–[[Interference Patterns|7]]
| A new interview with [[John Barber]]
| [[April 3|03/04]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 48
| 61
| Revenge of the Decepticons
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Heart Like a Wheel|#13]]–[[Revenge of the Decepticons Part 5: Enemy Mine|18]] ''[[Spotlight: Megatron]]''
| A ''Spotlight: Megatron'' sketchbook
| [[April 17|17/04]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 15
| 62
| Time Wars
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Time Wars|#199–205]] "[[All in the Minds!]]" ([[Transformers Annual 1989|Annual 1989]]) [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Guess Who the Mecannibals Are Having for Dinner?|#52]]–[[The Interplanetary Wrestling Championship!|55]].
| A behind-the-scenes look at Galvatron's storyline
| [[May 1|01/05]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 58
| 63
| Shockpoint
|[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]] #[[Plan for Everything|15]]–[[Soundwaves (issue)|22]]
| A 2-page history of IDW Shockwave's history-setting plans.
| [[May 15|15/05]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 80
| 64
| Requiem of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Till All Are One|Till All Are One]]'' [[Your First Mistake|#12]] [[The Chosen One|''Till Are Are One'' Annual]] [[Ghost Stories|2017 ''Transformers'' Annual]] ''[[Transformers: Requiem of the Wreckers|Requiem of the Wreckers]]''
| Wreckers sketchbook and notebook material from [[Nick Roche]].
| [[May 29|29/05]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 63
| 65
| Elegant Chaos
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The Custom-Made Now - An Elegant Chaos Prologue|#35]]–[[The Frail Gaze|42]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[June 12|12/06]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 09
| 66
| Toy Soldiers
| [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel US]] [[Crater Critters|#29]]–[[Used Autobots|#32]], [[Child%27s_Play_(issue)|#35]]–[[Toy Soldiers!|#37]] [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel UK]] [[Ancient Relics!|#125 and ''Action Force'' #24–27]]
| A one-page behind-the-scenes feature on "[[Man of Iron (issue)|Man of Iron]]" and how it got reprinted in the US comic.
| [[June 26|26/06]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 78
| 67
| New Cybertron
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[New Cybertron Part 1: To Walk Among the Chosen|#1]]–[[What It's Really Like|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Kei Zama]]
| [[July 10|10/07]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 67
| 68
| Conquerors
| [[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|''The Transformers'' vol. 2]] [[South of Heaven|#43]]–[[Conquerors Part 4: Perihelion|49]] ''[[An Uneventful Night|Combiner Hunters]]'' one-shot
| Development art by [[Andrew Griffith]]
| [[July 24|24/07]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 38
| 69
| Devastation
| ''[[The Transformers: Devastation]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Spotlight|Spotlights]]'' for [[Spotlight: Kup|Kup]], [[Spotlight: Ramjet|Ramjet]] and [[Spotlight: Cliffjumper|Cliffjumper]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 7|07/08]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 57
| 70
| Remain in Light
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[Remembrance Day|#14]]–[[Remain in Light 5 of 5: This Calamitous Life|21]] Prose stories "[[Signal to Noise]]" and "[[The Sound of Breaking Glass]]"
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[August 21|21/08]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 77
| 71
| Dissolution
| ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light]]'' [[Dissolution Part 1: Some Other Cybertron|#1]]–[[An Axe to Break the Ice|8]]
| A sketch gallery by [[Jack Lawrence]]
| [[September 4|04/09]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 69
| 72
| Sins of the Wreckers
| ''[[The Transformers: Sins of the Wreckers|Sins of the Wreckers]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers Holiday Special]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[September 18|18/09]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 56
| 73
| City On Fire
| ''[[The Transformers: Robots in Disguise|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Dinobot Hunt (IDW)|#8]]–[[Before the Dawn|14]] [[Primus: All Good Things|2012 Annual]]
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[October 2|02/10]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 34
| 74
| Autocracy
| ''[[The Transformers: Autocracy]]'' miniseries ''[[The Hunting Party (IDW)|Spotlight: Thundercracker]]''
| A one-page article on ''Autocracy'', including an interview with co-writer [[Chris Metzen]].
| [[October 16|16/10]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 70
| 75
| Punishment
| ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'' miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Redemption]]'' one-shot ''[[The Transformers: Salvation]]'' one-shot
| An article about the Motion Book Tool app used for the digital version of ''[[The Transformers: Punishment]]'', a "Brief History of the (IDW) Dinobots", and a [[Livio Ramondelli]] sketchbook.
| [[October 30|30/10]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 27
| 76
| Worlds Collide Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Armada (Dreamwave)|Armada]]'' [[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_8|#8]]–[[Dreamwave_Armada_issue_13|13]] [[More_than_Meets_the_Eye:_Transformers:_Armada|''More than Meets the Eye: Armada'' ]] (select material)
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 13|13/11]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 68
| 77
| Empire of Stone
| ''[[The Transformers: Drift - Empire of Stone|Drift - Empire of Stone]]'' miniseries [[The Transformers: Windblade|''Windblade'' vol. 2]] issues 5–7
| No bonus aside from Furman's intro and a cover gallery.
| [[November 27|27/11]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 51
| 78
| Chaos Theory
| [[The Transformers (IDW)|''The Transformers'' vol. 1]] [[Police Action: Prologue|#21 ("Police Action: Prologue" only)]], [[Chaos Theory Part 1|#22–23]], [[Police Action: Part 1|25]], [[Police Action Part 2: Only Forward|27]], [[Police Action Part 3: A Second Chance at Eden|29]] [[The Question|Spotlight: Bumblebee]]
| A one-page article exploring the origins of the "[[Chaos (IDW)|Chaos]]" arc and beyond.
| [[December 11|11/12]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 66
| 79
| Speak, Memory
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[The One Where They Go to Earth|#43]]–[[Speak, Memory! (Part 2)|49]]
| A one-page article about the [[Scavenger (group)|Scavengers]].
| [[December 25|25/12]]/[[2019]]
|-
| 61
| 80
| World, Shut Your Mouth
| ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'' [[World, Shut Your Mouth Part 1: Towards Peace|#28]]–[[Births, Deaths, and Interventions|34]]
| A page of "Season 2" character posters.
| [[January 8|08/01]]/[[2020]]
|-
| 84
| 81
| The Falling: Part 1
| ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[The Dead Come Home, Part 1 (of 2)|#13]]–[[The Falling, Chapter 3: The Ground|17]] ''[[Optimus Prime (comic)|Optimus Prime]]'' [[Starscream: The Movie (comic)|Annual 2018]]
| A one-page article about the Primes.
| [[January 22|22/01]]/[[2020]]
|-
| 90
| 82
| Generation 2: Part 1
| ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Transformers: Generation 2]]'' [[Ghosts|#0]]–[[The Gathering Darkness|6]]
| An article about [[Fleetway]]'s [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Fleetway)|UK ''Generation 2'' comic]], including [small-scale scans of] "[[War Without End (issue)|War Without End]]", their first UK-original ''G2'' strip.
| [[February 5|05/02]]/[[2020]]
|-
|
| 83
| Revolution
| ''[[Revolution]]'' [[Concorde Hymn|#1]]–[[Valley Forge|5]] ''[[Thundercracker & Buster Save the World|The Transformers]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Informed|Till All Are One]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot ''[[Nothing Will Ever Be the Same Again!|More than Meets the Eye]]'' ''[[Revolution]]'' one-shot
|
| [[February 19|19/02]]/[[2020]]
|-
| 89
| 84
| Realignments
| [[G.I. Joe (comic)|Marvel's ''G.I. Joe'']] [[Unfoldings!|#138]]–[[Final Transformations|142]] (assumed)
|
| [[March 4|04/03]]/[[2020]]
|-
| 82
| 85
| Revolutionaries
| ''[[Revolutionaries]]'' [[Crisis Intervention|#1]]–[[Ghost in the Machine (IDW)|8]] (assumed)
|
| [[March 18|18/03]]/[[2020]]
|-
| 92
| 86
| Transformers: The Movie
| [[Transformers: The Movie (Marvel comic)|Marvel's adaption]] of [[The Transformers: The Movie|The 1986 animated movie]] [[Transformers: The Animated Movie|IDW's adaption]] of that same movie (assumed)
|
| [[April 1|01/04]]/[[2020]]
|-
| 83
| 87
| First Strike
| ''[[First Strike]]'' [[First Strike issue 0|#0]]–[[First Strike issue 6|6]] (assumed)
|
| [[April 15|15/04]]/[[2020]]
|-
|
| 88
|
|
|
| [[April 29|29/04]]/[[2020]]
|-
|
| 89
|
|
|
| [[May 13|13/05]]/[[2020]]
|-
|
| 90
|
|
|
| [[May 27|27/05]]/[[2020]]
|-
|
| 91
|
|
|
| [[June 10|10/06]]/[[2020]]
|-
|
| 92
|
|
|
| [[June 24|24/06]]/[[2020]]
|-
|
| 93
|
|
|
| [[July 8|08/07]]/[[2020]]
|-
|
| 94
|
|
|
| [[July 22|22/07]]/[[2020]]
|-
|
| 95
|
|
|
| [[August 5|05/08]]/[[2020]]
|-
|
| 96
|
|
|
| [[August 19|19/08]]/[[2020]]
|-
|
| 97
|
|
|
| [[September 2|02/09]]/[[2020]]
|-
|
| 98
|
|
|
| [[September 16|16/09]]/[[2020]]
|-
|
| 99
|
|
|
| [[September 30|30/09]]/[[2020]]
|-
|
| 100
|
|
|
| [[October 14|14/10]]/[[2020]]
|}

==Notes==
* The free gifts shipped to subscribers with the first five deliveries (each consisting of two isses - except the first, which included a third issue free) were:
** Autobot/Decepticon [[insignia]] keyrings!
** A wallet!
** A tin-plate version of the cover to "[[Dark Star]]", featuring a cosmically-empowered [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]]!
** A mug!
** A pair of metal Autobot/Decepticon insignia bookends!<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20170112033736/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* Before the partwork launched, the second free gift was advertised as an [[Insignia|Autobrand]] belt buckle.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20160914212214/http://www.transformerscollection.com:80/ Archived copy of official site]</ref>
* The first issue collected "[[Target: 2006]]", and was coincidentally out at newsagents thirty years after the story originally ran.<ref>[http://thesolarpool.weebly.com/transformers-uk227.html Solar Pool]: "The Target: 2006 book is already out... if it doesn’t [finish], Target: 2006 was back on at least some newsagents shelves towards the end of its 30th anniversary week. How cool is that?"</ref>
* The printings of Marvel material aren't really identical to those released by IDW—for instance, issue 1 (volume 6 - confused yet?) includes various Marvel trademarks (such as the superheroes around the edge of the cover to "Heavy Traffic" and the kid wearing a Spider-Man t-shirt in "Decepticon Graffiti") which were painted out of IDW's reprints due to rights issues.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-10#post-14168736 Ryan F on the TFW2005 forums]: "The weird thing is, though, these '''aren't''' the IDW versions. The cover to Heavy Traffic has all the Marvel characters around the edge, and the little kid in Decepticon Graffiti is wearing his Spider-Man t-shirt. This stuff was painted out of the IDW trades due to rights issues with Marvel."</ref>
===Errors===
* When the website launched, it accidentally credited [[Andrew Wildman|Andrew ''Wlid''man]].
* Copies of the first issue provided to general retail and initial subscribers had an error on the spine, with the black volume number box at the top being the wrong size.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14249131 ultra badness on the TFW2005 forums]: "I just got an email from Hachette to say they had misprinted the spine art on issue 1. And hey will send a replacement. Hurrah! Im going to have 3 issues!"</ref> Subscribers received free corrected copies, while those who bought theirs at newsagents had to wait for replacements which included with issue 7.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14256091 Magnus' Mate on TFW2005]: "Incidentally, the 'corrected' #1 will be available to non-subscribers as well, included free with issue #7!"</ref> Hachette were seen giving away error-stricken copies for free at a signing event at a London comic shop.<ref>[http://forums.millarworld.tv/t/the-trades-thread-hardcovers-graphic-novels-and-more/4923/2359 Millarworld forums (dead link)]</ref> This error shouldn't be confused with the change in spine art for the first four issues made between the limited trial run and the mass release,<ref>[http://www.facebook.com/TransformersG1Collection/posts/1533415153338562?comment_id=1533436356669775&reply_comment_id=1533593929987351 Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection on Facebook]</ref> which means that anyone who subscribed to the series from its trial will end up with ''three'' different copies of issue 1.
* The poster included with issue 1 includes a bio for [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]]... which uses an image of [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]].<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13983869 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "Also: the poster that comes with Volume 1 (Target: 2006) shows some small character bios but goofs up the "Jazz" bio by using a picture of Prowl."</ref>
* The trial versions of issues 1 and 2 had the inside cover art swapped: the "Target: 2006" book had artwork for ''Stormbringer'', and vice versa.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-6#post-13989359 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "On anybody else's copies, is the inside cover art wrong? I've got Stormbringer art inside the Target:2006 book, and Target:2006 art inside the Stormbringer book."</ref>
* A feature in issue 1 states that the Marvel UK comic sold 200,000 copies per week, when really it only sold 100,000 per week ''at its peak''. This error presumably stems from the fact that Marvel (and other publishers at the time) multiplied their circulation figures by 2.5 to calculate their readership, as they estimated that many issues would be shared between friends and siblings.<ref name=RyanFTarget2006>
* Hatchette's own masterings of the comics introduce yet more errors. In issue 1, for example, an instance of '[[Skids (G1)|]]' in dialogue is misspelled as 'Skips'.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-12#post-14277882 Bass X0 on the TFW2005 forums]: "In Decepticon Graffiti, Skids is called Skips on the second page."</ref> This error was not present in IDW's original reprints.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-13#post-14316444 Magnus' Mate on the TFW2005 forums]: "Except the IDW "Transformers Classics" volume 2 with issue #23 in doesn't have this same problem - Skids is still Skids, not Skips! I know there are other problems with them, but this one is on Hachette."</ref>
* The bio for John Paul Bove included in issue 3 (volume 16) was apparently written by himself in the first person, then edited into the third person—one of the sentences written in first person remains!<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-8#post-14101771 drmick on the TFW2005 forums]: "There is also a half page bio on JP, which was obviously written by himself in the first person, and then edited to be the third person- but they missed one of the first person senetnces and it is still in there!"</ref>
* Some copies of volume 22 had a number erroneously printed on one of the pages.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-20#post-15179844 rodster6 on the TFW2005 forums]: "Got volume 7 today (which I think is issue 22) and there is a weird number printed randomly on one page that shouldn't be there."</ref>
* The first print run for volume 35 had an error where the last two pages of ''Monstrosity'' #11 were swapped with two from "War and Peace" #3.<ref>[https://www.tfw2005.com/boards/threads/uk-transformers-graphic-novel-partwork-from-hatchette.1088662/page-18#post-14880721 fishpop on the TFW2005 forums]: "The last two pages of Monstrosity #11 have been swapped with the ones from W&P #3"</ref>
* Many volumes include pages which are stuck together, though this is easy enough for the reader to fix.
* Though some readers may try to convince you otherwise, [[Mister Johnson]] is not an error.

===Reading order===
*Within individual volumes, Marvel material is segregated between US and UK stories—even when those stories were originally interspersed, with connected narratives!
**The material in volume 2 should be ordered US #5-8, UK #29-32, US #9-10. "[[And There Shall Come...a Leader!]]" is a Furman-penned comic from [[Transformers Annual 1985|the 1995 annual]], but it's a standalone flashback that isn't referenced until UK #44. "[[Plague of the Insecticons!]]" (the other comic from the annual) is set in the present day but doesn't match up with the continuity at large—for some reason it's included as backmatter to volume 13, alongside stories released three years later!
**Volume 3 presents UK #41-50 before US #11-12. This should be the other way around!
**The pack-in comic "[[The Special Teams Have Arrived]]" is absent—but of course, it was completely retold in UK #63-65, included here in volume 4.
**The two comic stories from [[Transformers Annual 1986|the 1986 annual]] aren't directly connected to specific issues; "[[To a Power Unknown!]]" doesn't really fit into continuity at all, but certainly takes place after UK #65—which is where the partwork puts it—while "[[Victory!]]" (which explains what happened to the Dinobots between UK #50 and #65) is placed before UK #74-77, another Dinobot-centric story which touches on its events.
**"[[The Gift]]", UK #93's seasonal story by [[James Hill]], is omitted; it should be placed in volume 6 between US #22 and US #23.
**Volume 8 presents US #28 before UK #113-120, despite it having been published afterwards as UK #121-122.
**The stories from [[Transformers Annual 1987|the 1987 annual]] are scattered. "[[Vicious Circle!]]" is placed in volume 8 alongside UK #113-120, collectively forming the first "post-movie" storyline. "What's In a Name?" is set during UK #135-136, but for some reason is placed after UK #137-138 in volume 11. "[[Ark Duty]]" is also thrown into volume 11, after UK #146-151... despite chronologically taking place some time before that story.
*Presumably as an editorial decision, the partwork omits a large quantity of prose material.
**Marvel UK's prose content is mostly omitted, although it bears mentioning that much of it is tricky to reconcile with the continuity proper anyway. This includes James Hill's four stories from the 1985 and 1986 annuals ("[[Missing in Action]]", "[[Hunted!]]", "[[The Return of the Transformers]]" and "[[State Games]]"), Jamie Delano's "[[The Mission]]" (also from 1986), Furman's in-universe recaps from the 1986 and 1989 annuals ("[[In the Beginning...]]" and "[[The Saga of the Transformers — So Far!]]"), Ian Rimmer's "[[Prime Bomb!]]" (also from 1989), both stories from the 1990 annual ("[[The Quest!]]" and "[[Trigger-Happy!]]"), the 1991 annual's "[[The Magnificent Six!]]", and the 1992 annual's "[[Another Time & Place]]". UK #302's "[[Dreadwind's Xmas!]]" is absent too.
**The various prose stories, profiles and comics first printed with the collected editions of ''[[The Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers| Last Stand of the Wreckers]]'' are absent.
**Tom Scioli's four-page "[[Black Cybertron]]" prose story from ''[[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe]]'' [[Transformers vs. G.I. Joe issue 10|#10]] is omitted, along with the creators' commentaries which graced the other issues in the series.

==Covers==
<center><gallery caption="Marvel (US & UK)" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v1.jpg|Vol 1: Power Play
DefinitiveG1Collection v2.jpg|Vol 2: New Order
DefinitiveG1Collection v3.jpg|Vol 3: Dinobot Hunt
DefinitiveG1Collection v4.jpg|Vol 4: Second Generation
DefinitiveG1Collection v5.jpg|Vol 5: The Smelting Pool
DefinitiveG1Collection v6.jpg|Vol 6: Target: 2006
DefinitiveG1Collection v7.jpg|Vol 7: The Harder They Die
DefinitiveG1Collection v8.jpg|Vol 8: Wanted: Galvatron - Dead or Alive
DefinitiveG1Collection v9.jpg|Vol 9: Toy Soldiers
DefinitiveG1Collection v10.jpg|Vol 10: Trial by Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v11.jpg|Vol 11: The Legacy of Unicron
DefinitiveG1Collection v12.jpg|Vol 12: Cosmic Carnival
DefinitiveG1Collection v13.jpg|Vol 13: City of Fear
DefinitiveG1Collection v14.jpg|Vol 14: Space Pirates
DefinitiveG1Collection v15.jpg|Vol 15: Time Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v16.jpg|Vol 16: The Primal Scream
DefinitiveG1Collection v17.jpg|Vol 17: Matrix Quest
DefinitiveG1Collection v18.jpg|Vol 18: Edge of Extinction
DefinitiveG1Collection v19.jpg|Vol 19: Perchance to Dream
DefinitiveG1Collection v20.jpg|Vol 20: End of the Road
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Marvel's Generation 2" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v90.jpg|Vol 90: Generation 2 Part 1
</gallery>
<gallery caption="IDW's Regeneration One" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v21.jpg|Vol 21: Regeneration One
DefinitiveG1Collection v22.jpg|Vol 22: Natural Selection
DefinitiveG1Collection v23.jpg|Vol 23: Destiny
DefinitiveG1Collection v24.jpg|Vol 24: The War to End All Wars
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Dreamwave Productions" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v25.jpg|Vol 25: Prime Directive
DefinitiveG1Collection v26.jpg|Vol 26: War and Peace
DefinitiveG1Collection v27.jpg|Vol 27: Worlds Collide Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v28.jpg|Vol 28: Worlds Collide Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v29.jpg|Vol 29: The War Within
DefinitiveG1Collection v30.jpg|Vol 30: War Within: The Dark Ages
DefinitiveG1Collection v31.jpg|Vol 31: The Iron Fist
</gallery>

<gallery caption="2005 IDW continuity" perrow="6">
DefinitiveG1Collection v32.jpg|Vol 32: Infiltration
DefinitiveG1Collection v33.jpg|Vol 33: Megatron Origin
DefinitiveG1Collection v34.jpg|Vol 34: Autocracy
DefinitiveG1Collection v35.jpg|Vol 35: Primacy
DefinitiveG1Collection v36.jpg|Vol 36: Stormbringer
DefinitiveG1Collection v37.jpg|Vol 37: Escalation
DefinitiveG1Collection v38.jpg|Vol 38: Devastation
DefinitiveG1Collection v39.jpg|Vol 39: Hearts of Steel
DefinitiveG1Collection v40.jpg|Vol 40: Maximum Dinobots
DefinitiveG1Collection v41.jpg|Vol 41: Drift
DefinitiveG1Collection v42.jpg|Vol 42: Revelation
DefinitiveG1Collection v43.jpg|Vol 43: All Hail Megatron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v44.jpg|Vol 44: All Hail Megatron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v45.jpg|Vol 45: Last Stand of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v46.jpg|Vol 46: Things Fall Apart
DefinitiveG1Collection v47.jpg|Vol 47: International Incident
DefinitiveG1Collection v48.jpg|Vol 48: Revenge of the Decepticons
DefinitiveG1Collection v49.jpg|Vol 49: The Iron Age
DefinitiveG1Collection v50.jpg|Vol 50: Heart of Darkness
DefinitiveG1Collection v51.jpg|Vol 51: Chaos Theory
DefinitiveG1Collection v52.jpg|Vol 52: The Death of Optimus Prime
DefinitiveG1Collection v53.jpg|Vol 53: Liars, A to D
DefinitiveG1Collection v54.jpg|Vol 54: A Better Tomorrow
DefinitiveG1Collection v55.jpg|Vol 55: Shadowplay
DefinitiveG1Collection v56.jpg|Vol 56: City On Fire
DefinitiveG1Collection v57.jpg|Vol 57: Remain In Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v58.jpg|Vol 58: Shockpoint
DefinitiveG1Collection v59.jpg|Vol 59: Dark Cybertron, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v60.jpg|Vol 60: Dark Cybertron, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v61.jpg|Vol 61: World Shut Your Mouth
DefinitiveG1Collection v62.jpg|Vol 62: Earthfall
DefinitiveG1Collection v63.jpg|Vol 63: Elegant Chaos
DefinitiveG1Collection v64.jpg|Vol 64: Windblade
DefinitiveG1Collection v65.jpg|Vol 65: Combiner Wars
DefinitiveG1Collection v66.jpg|Vol 66: Speak, Memory
DefinitiveG1Collection v67.jpg|Vol 67: Conquerors
DefinitiveG1Collection v68.jpg|Vol 68: Empire of Stone
DefinitiveG1Collection v69.jpg|Vol 69: Sins of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v70.jpg|Vol 70: Punishment
DefinitiveG1Collection v71.jpg|Vol 71: All Hail Optimus
DefinitiveG1Collection v72.jpg|Vol 72: The Dying of the Light
DefinitiveG1Collection v73.jpg|Vol 73: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v74.jpg|Vol 74: Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v75.jpg|Vol 75: Titans Return, Part 1
DefinitiveG1Collection v76.jpg|Vol 76: Titans Return, Part 2
DefinitiveG1Collection v77.jpg|Vol 77: Dissolution
DefinitiveG1Collection v78.jpg|Vol 78: New Cybertron
DefinitiveG1Collection v79.jpg|Vol 79: Primeless
DefinitiveG1Collection v80.jpg|Vol 80: Requiem of the Wreckers
DefinitiveG1Collection v84.jpg|Vol 84: The Falling Part 1
</gallery>

''[[:Category:Definitive G1 Collection covers|Extended cover gallery]]''</center>

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[http://www.transformerscollection.com/ Official website]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Definitive G1 Collection}}
[[Category:Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics continuity comic compilations]]
[[Category:Dreamwave Generation 1 comic compilations]]
[[Category:IDW (2005) comic compilations]]
[[Category:Marvel Generation 1 comic compilations]]

Marvel Comics timeline

2016-03-30T19:15:32Z

YoungDoctor: /* 1988 */

[[File:Marvel Comics montage.jpg|upright=2.8|thumb]]
A timeline for the events of the [[Generation 1 continuity family|Generation 1]] [[Marvel Comics continuity|Marvel Comics universe(s)]]. Thanks to time-travel stories and a continuity break between the later UK and US strips, it has multiple 'branches' leading out of it.

This timeline just features stories published by [[Marvel Comics]] and a handful of "[[Ask Vector Prime]]" posts that are explicitly set in/about the published comics, but this continuity saw spinoffs in [[Condor Verlag]]'s ''[[Transformers Comic-Magazin]]'', [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Fleetway)|Fleetway's ''Generation 2'']], [[Fun Publications]] ''[[Transformers: Classics#Fiction|Classics]]'' tie-ins, and [[IDW]]'s ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]]''. (Plus an unofficial convention story "[[Alignment]]" that counts/doesn't count depending on how we feel that day)

{{noteukonly}}
==The Dawn of Time==
The universe is created. According to [[Primus|one source]], it was born from the remains of the old universe which [[Unicron|some greedy bugger had eaten]]. {{storylink|The Void! (US)|The Void!}}

==Prehistory==
Life gradually evolved throughout the cosmos, eventually and miraculously bringing forth sentient beings. ''Energy being so powerful we'd consider them gods used to dominate the cosmos'' {{storylink|Transformers: The Facts}} {{storylink|The Legacy of Unicron!|The Legacy of Unicron!}}, while organic life evolved through carbon-bonding and mechanical life (including Transformers and [[Quintesson]]s) evolved through the interaction of naturally occurring gears, levers, and pulleys. {{storylink|The Transformers (issue)|The Transformers}} {{storylink|The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|The Big Broadcast of 2006 (US)}}

{{note|The above origin story for Transformers has been effectively [[retcon]]ned into obscurity. See below.}}

[[File:Primusoriginal.jpg|thumb|Now this part, they all agree on.]]
At some point, the beings Primus and Unicron have a punch-up.

Accounts differ on the specifics. ''One account is they were leaders of the [[Light God]]s and the [[Dark God]]s respectively, leading their forces into battle with each other;'' {{storylink|The Legacy of Unicron!|The Legacy of Unicron!}} another that they were the last of their pantheons (''Unicron's being the [[Lord of Chaos|Lords of Chaos]]''<ref>[http://transfans.co.uk/popup.php?id=2201 Letters page] from [[Kings of the Wild Frontier.|Marvel UK issue #282]]</ref>) and Primus needed to beat Unicron to join the [[Omniversal Matrix]]; {{storylink|The Primal Scream}} another that Primus was called forth by the universe itself as a unique entity to prevent Unicron from destroying it, just as the Chaos-Bringer had done to the previous universe. {{storylink|The Void! (US)|The Void!}}

[[File:Primag2.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|left]]
In any case, Primus could only win by tricking Unicron into trapping his spirit in a barren asteroid—Primus was trapped in a second. Unicron turned his into a new body, while Primus turned his into the planet Cybertron and birthed the Transformers to battle Unicron in his place. {{storylink|The Legacy of Unicron!|The Legacy of Unicron!}} {{storylink|The Primal Scream}}

The earliest of their kind rose from the guts of the planet itself {{storylink|The Power and the Glory}} and were led by [[Prima]], the first bearer of the Primus-born [[Matrix of Leadership|Creation Matrix]]. {{storylink|Dark Creation}} Left out of the history books was the ''second'' born: the [[Liege Maximo]], created as a 'balance', evil where Prima was good. He too would create Transformers. {{storylink|A Rage in Heaven!}}

At some point, [[Demon]]s inhabited Cybertron, but they were eventually imprisoned by Primus in the planet's depths. According to Transformer legend, they were the "flipside" of the Transformers. {{storylink|Dawn of Darkness}} {{storylink|Still Life!}}

{{note|Simon Furman intended that the Demons were botched attempts to create Transformer life,<ref>[http://www.alteredstatesmag.com/features/qanda/sfurman_3.php Altered States Magazine interview with Furman]</ref> but it was never clarified in-universe until the ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One|Regeneration One]]'' sequel.}}

In olden times, Transformers reproduced by "[[Reproduction#Budding|budding]]", where a Transformer ''grows'' a new one: producing a mass of liquid metal that grows out of their chest and eventually forms another. As this diluted the essence of Primus, their slumbering god made his creations 'forget' they could do this once they hit a desired population number {{storylink|The Power and the Glory}} and the Creation Matrix was used instead.

[[Nova Prime|Prime Nova]] replaced Prima. {{storylink|Dark Creation}}

==Overlords==
[[File:Sentinel prime lou.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|"HELP! I'M BEING MUGGED!!"]]
''From an unknown point of time, Cybertron was ruled by the [[Overlord (rank)|Overlords]], a governing council of absolute rulers. Over time, their power and number dwindled, until Cybertron was composed of multiple city-states who were constantly clashing with each other; the key three powers were [[Vos (polity)|Vos]], [[Tarn (polity)|Tarn]] and [[Iacon (polity)|Iacon]]. While all the major cities were using their might to pork energy at the expense of others, Iacon did ration theirs out to neighbouring smaller cities. Tarn and Vos, by comparison, built up vast armies.''{{storylink|State Games}}

[[Sentinel Prime (G1)|Sentinel Prime]] passed the Matrix on to [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus]], {{storylink|Dark Creation}} a sports champion and notable figure from Iacon. {{storylink|Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot's ''Transformers Universe'' entry}} {{storylink|Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose's ''Transformers Universe'' entry}} ''By this point, having a Matrix evidently no longer meant leadership.''

{{note|Early stories like "State Games" naturally assumed "Optimus Prime" was just his name but later stories establish "Prime in name" equals "has Matrix"}}

===State Games===
[[File:State games 1.JPG|left|upright=0.85|thumb|They think it's all over... it is now!]]
''In an attempt to lessen growing hostilities caused by the splintering governments and the dwindling resources on Cybertron, the last Overlord started the [[Games]]: an inter-city [[gladiatorial combat|gladiatorial tournament]]. This allowed the population to exorcise their hostilities, and soon the vicious athlete [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] had a cult of personality based around him and his feats. He built this up, quietly planning to unite Cybertron under his own rule and turn it into a mighty cosmic dreadnought! One of his great rivals was Optimus Prime, the champion of Iacon.''

''Vos — ruled by a [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]]-headed criminal syndicate — sent its athletic team to bomb Tarn (ruled by [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]) and finger Iacon as the culprit. As with all plans by Starscream, this cocked up — Tarn realised Vos had attacked it, and war broke out that devastated both cities. Iacon happily let its rivals beat on each other. During the conflict, Optimus Prime tries to get the Overlord to safety but Megatron secretly ensures the leader starves to death; once the war ended, Megatron used his fame and charisma to convince the war's survivors that Iacon was at fault for not stepping in to prevent the war, and that Iacon was the enemy. This angry mass became the first Decepticons.'' {{storylink|State Games}}

===War on the Horizon===
[[File:LegionOfTheLost1-Megatronorigin.jpg|thumb|Caaaaan yoooooou dig it?!]]
''The Decepticons were considered harmless cranks to be humored, but ultimately ignored. Megatron crafted the malcontent group into a more formidable organization {{storylink|Legion of the Lost!|Legion of the Lost!}}'', and they soon had bases in Autobot cities. In secret, the Decepticons armed themselves and were given the ability to transform into war machines — and then hit an unprepared Cybertron without warning! {{storylink|The Transformers (issue)|The Transformers (comic issue)}}
{{-}}

==Early Great War==
[[File:Bigred.jpg|upright=0.55|thumb|left]]
[[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] leads the Decepticons, gaining more and more ground while the Autobots continue to fall; {{storylink|The Transformers (issue)|The Transformers}} ''simultaneously, his old rival Optimus Prime rises in the Autobot ranks. He starts off as head of the six-strong<ref>The letters page refers to it as having five members, not including Optimus: [http://transfans.co.uk/popup.php?id=587 Marvel UK issue #54's Soundwaves at Transfans.co.uk]</ref> [[Elite Flying Corps]]. He clashes with his subordinate [[Swoop (G1)|Divebomb]],'' {{storylink|The Icarus Theory}} ''made worse when he saves Divebomb from being killed by [[Divebomb (G1)|a Decepticon who pinches his name]]. (Divebomb changes it to "Swoop" and never talks about being saved.)'' {{storylink|Grudge Match!}} Later, Prime is transferred to the [[Autobot Fourth Computerized Division]] and is swiftly promoted to Lieutenant Commander. {{storylink|The Flames of Boltax!}} ''Other war legends include the [[Magnificent Six]], who end up reduced to five traumatised wrecks after being captured by [[Megadeath (G1)|Megadeath]] at [[Yuss]].''{{storylink|The Magnificent Six!}}

[[File:Megatron brings these gifts TO YOU.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
Megatron and Optimus first clash in battle over the powerful [[Underbase]], the creation of the neutral scientist [[Boltax (G1)|Boltax]]. Tragically, it was Optimus' own visit to Boltax that ''caused'' the clash: Optimus had willingly violated a neutrality agreement, putting neutrals at risk and not just giving Megatron a justification for attacking, but showing him how to evade the Underbase's defences. All of Boltax's followers were killed and in order to prevent this mighty database being captured, Optimus launched it into space. This 'victory' helped make his career but he knew he'd been driven by pride and glory-seeking. The shame of what he'd done always remained with him. {{storylink|The Flames of Boltax!}}

[[File:Optimusprimeg1marvelfirst.jpg|upright=1.66|left|thumb|Prime rallies the troops by firing at nothing.]]
Optimus became an iconic general, the only one with the skill and firepower to properly rally the army,{{storylink|The Transformers (issue)|The Transformers}} ''and he was given field command of the whole thing. The [[Council of Autobot Elders]] still pulled the strings but he carried out unsanctioned plans behind their back.'' {{storylink|Transformers Annual 1987|Optimus Prime datafile}}

[[File:Generics marvel 1.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|''Pew pew pew pew!'']]
Eventually Megatron has pushed the Autobots to Iacon itself, and Optimus Prime was at the [[Jan-Ja|front line]], rallying outnumbered and exhausted Autobots to drive back a larger Decepticon army. {{storylink|Surrender!}} ''The Decepticons advanced once more and began entering the city, but Optimus lead a successful defensive that turns him back. During that battle, [[Emirate]] [[Xaaron]] has the Iacon government grant Optimus full control of the armed forces and the ability to do what he wants without needing to go to them — which he was doing anyway!'' {{storylink|And There Shall Come...a Leader!}}

[[File:Longtooth generics marvel uk 249.jpg|thumb|upright=1.9|left|Almost quiet on the western front.]]
Under Optimus, the Autobots retake, rebuild, and fortify their city-states. The war becomes evenly matched, though the very planet itself is blasted out of its orbit{{storylink|The Transformers (issue)|The Transformers}} ''as Megatron, obsessed with that cosmic dreadnought plan, builds planet-engines and triggers one.'' {{storylink|Legion of the Lost!}}

''In one of many battles, a terrified [[Longtooth]] found himself surrounded by corpses and the near-dead; a passing Optimus gave him a piece of the Matrix to heal an ally, but Longtooth kept it to give himself a potential extra life.'' {{storylink|Whose Lifeforce Is It Anyway?}}

===''1st Cycle 931'' (Cybertronian dating)<ref>[[The Quest!]]</ref>===
A thousand-year into the war,<ref>The length of the war is given as "over a thousand years" in [[The Transformers (issue)|Marvel Comics #1]], but it's said to be just a hundred years in Marvel UK's [[Legion of the Lost!|Legion of the Lost!, Part 1]].</ref> the wonky orbit eventually takes Cybertron far too close to an asteroid belt, which will destroy it utterly; Optimus leads a team of the Autobots' finest in the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] to clear the path of rocks. Following this, he intends to make peace gestures to the Decepticons... who then attack in force and board the Ark, causing Optimus to crash the ship into [[Earth|some uninhabited planet]] to end Megatron's threat. {{storylink|The Transformers (issue)|The Transformers}}

==Post-Ark launch==
''The Autobots are left distraught by the loss of the Ark, and the Council has to retake control of the military. The Decepticons quickly gain a new leader in the brutal [[Trannis]] and the war begins going their way once again.'' {{storylink|Cybertron: The Middle Years!}} ''The Autobots hold [[Kalis]] long enough that university student [[Flame (Marvel)|Flame]] can propose using one of Megatron's lost world engines, hidden in the city, to themselves move the planet. Xaaron rejects the plan and Flame is left bitter.'' {{storylink|Legion of the Lost!}} ''Unfortunately they are eventually pushed back to Iacon.''{{storylink|Cybertron: The Middle Years!}}

''Eventually Trannis just gets bored and has Iacon bombed to slag. The Autobots only survive due to Emirate Xaaron having prepared for the army to go underground, and a long-lasting insurgency begins. The commando group [[Wrecker|the Wreckers]] kill Trannis, but this just leaves [[Straxus (G1)|Straxus]] in charge {{storylink|Cybertron: The Middle Years!}}'' to start chucking all Autobots, neutrals, [[empty|empties]], failed Decepticons and the postman into the [[Smelting pool]]. {{storylink|The Smelting Pool!}}

[[File:Budding.jpg|left|thumb|Hope you weren't eating when you looked at this page...]]
Meanwhile, a bunch of Decepticons unlock the key to [[Reproduction|biomorphic reproduction]], a pre-Matrix way of reproducing. {{storylink|The Power and the Glory}} This new second generation of Decepticons, including [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]], happily throw themselves into the war but eventually become bored with it; they leave Cybertron behind to colonise space (exterminating any organic life on said colony worlds in the process) under the aegis of the [[Cybertronian (faction)|Cybertronian Empire]]. Neither the Autobots nor Straxus's Decepticons notice this, carrying on a war Jhiaxus and Co believe is irrelevant. {{storylink|War Without End!}}

In time, these offshoots would encounter the monstrous [[Liege Maximo]] and come under his command. {{storylink|A Rage in Heaven!}}

Ten thousand years ago, the planet [[Nebulos]] is almost destroyed by war. The original [[World Watchers]] are able to defuse the situation and the planet buried its weapons, dedicating itself to pacifism. {{storylink|Ring of Hate!}}

[[File:Man of iron and knights.jpg|upright=1.6|thumb]]
At some point, the Autobots send [[Navigator (Autobot)|Navigator]] to find the lost Ark. His ship crashes on Earth but [[United Kingdom|the wrong part entirely]]. By this point, humans have evolved and developed a feudal system. In [[1017]] AD local time, Navigator's companion first went looking for the Ark; he accidentally scared off [[Godwin the Strongarm]]'s army away from [[Stansham Castle]] and was dubbed "[[Man of Iron (Autobot)|the Man of Iron]]" by the terrified locals. He'd pop up two more times before the 20th century. {{storylink|Man of Iron (issue)|Man of Iron}} With no word coming back, the Autobots of Cybertron gave up the Ark for dead and its crew. {{storylink|The Smelting Pool!}}

The [[Quintesson]]s rule [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]. They were driven off "centuries ago". {{storylink|The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|The Big Broadcast of 2006 (US)}}

''[[Kup (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Kup]] grows weary of the war and leaves Cybertron, but an encounter with the boisterous [[Hot Rod/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] revives his spirits.'' {{storylink|Kup's Story!}}

[[File:LastStand-Sparkplugflashback.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.2]]
Autobot astronomers worked out that the lost Underbase would make its way to Earth in a few hundred years. They sent [[Grand Slam (G1)|Grand Slam]] and [[Raindance]] to warn the Autobots there,<ref>They shouldn't know there ''are'' Autobots there, unless Navigator or the Man of Iron was talking to them (but then why were they left on Earth and never retrieved?)</ref> with all relevant data encoded on their cassette alt modes, but they were badly damaged in the crash and lay locked and insensate as tapes. In the 18th century, a pirate ship found them but was itself lost at sea. {{storylink|Club Con!}}

In the 1950s of Earth, the [[United States of America]] was at war with [[North Korea]]. Sergeant <s>Irving</s> <s>William</s> <s>Stanislas</s> '''Sparkplug''' Witwicky was taken prisoner and forced to fix North Korean vehicles. He secretly sabotaged them, costing the enemy in men and materiel . {{storylink|Prisoner of War!}} {{storylink|The Last Stand}}

By this point, Cybertron is a mostly dead world: resource starved and ravaged, with the few remaining neutral civilians at constant risk of being killed for sport . {{storylink|The Smelting Pool!}} ''The pub [[Maccadam's Old Oil House]] is one of the few neutral spots on the planet, allowing anyone in if they can pay.'' {{storylink|Target: 2006}}
{{-}}

==20th century onwards==
===1984/5===
[[File:Combat deck marvel 1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.6]]
A volcanic eruption reactivates [[Teletraan I (G1)|Teletraan I]], the internal computer of the Ark. The Autobots and the Decepticons awaken, and restart the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]]. {{storylink|The Transformers (issue)|The Transformers}}

The Decepticons kidnap the mechanic [[Sparkplug Witwicky]], and force him to adapt their systems to earthen fuel. {{storylink|Prisoner of War!}}

''After some battles'', {{storylink|Man of Iron (issue)|Man of Iron}} {{storylink|The Enemy Within!}} {{storylink|Raiders of the Last Ark}} the Decepticons launch a final attack on the Autobots. When the Decepticons have the upper hand, they fall due to Witwicky making the fuel poisonous for them. However, the Autobots' victory is short-lived, because of the arrival of [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]], who defeats the remaining Autobots. {{storylink|The Last Stand}}

Shockwave assumes command of the Decepticons (beating the snot out of Megatron to cement this) and deactivates all of the Autobots except [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]], who was absent at the time of the attack, and [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]], who is kept alive as a disembodied head. Prime secretly passes the [[Matrix of Leadership|Creation Matrix]], a life-giving power, onto human ally [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster Witwicky]]. {{storylink|The New Order}} {{storylink|The Worse of Two Evils!}}

Ratchet retrieves the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]] from the [[Savage Land]] and, with their help, takes down Megatron. {{storylink|Repeat Performance!}} ''With their help, the Ark is secured and the Autobots reactivated (sans Prime who's a prison of Shockwave), but at the seeming cost of [[Swoop (G1)|Swoop's]] life. The Dinobots go AWOL.'' {{storylink|The Wrath of Guardian!}} {{storylink|The Wrath of Grimlock!}}

[[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] secures a mutual-benefit alliance with [[G.B. Blackrock]], solving the Autobot fuel concerns. {{storylink|DIS-Integrated Circuits!}} Shockwave uses Optimus's [[Matrix of Leadership|Creation Matrix]] to give life to the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]], {{storylink|The Next Best Thing to Being There!}} but later the Autobots recover their commander despite severe injuries. Shockwave is left MIA, and the Matrix returned to Optimus; he uses it to bring life to Decepticon construct [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]], who joins the Autobots. {{storylink|Prime Time!}}

''Buster Witwicky introduces the recovering Autobots to the concept of Christmas, which Prime takes ''[[:File:Arkchristmastree.jpg|a bit too far]]''.'' {{storylink|Christmas Breaker!}}

===1986===
[[File:Soundwavedinobothunt.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.45|''EPIC WIN.'']]
''Optimus briefly suffers from doubts and second-guessing due his ordeal, recovering in time to end Autobot divisions. Soundwave assumes Decepticon command.'' {{storylink|Crisis of Command!}} ''Swoop is recovered and reactivated by disgruntled scientist [[Peter Anthony Morris|Professor Morris]], leading to the discovery that the Dinobots are suffering mental deterioration.'' {{storylink|The Icarus Theory}} ''The Autobots begin a Dinobot Hunt, in which Jetfire proves himself as an Autobot, but Soundwave's interference leads to multiple Autobots being injured and an unopposed fuel raid—a major Decepticon victory.'' {{storylink|Dinobot Hunt!}} ''[[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] almost makes a deal with [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] out of desperation over the wounded,'' {{storylink|...Perchance to Dream}} ''and the Dinobots remain offline even when repaired.'' {{storylink|Victory!}} Meanwhile, small-time criminal [[Joey Slick]] finds Megatron (locked in gun-mode) and briefly becomes a notorious super-criminal. Megatron is reactivated. {{storylink|Shooting Star!}}

Shockwave returns and retakes command. The Autobots, desperate to bolster troop numbers due to the mass of injuries, activate five new warriors. {{storylink|Rock and Roll-Out!}} Government agency [[Intelligence and Information Institute]] attempts to calm public fears by creating a "Robot-Master" figure who they pretend really controls the Transformers. Megatron, now backed by Soundwave and his cassettes, captures the Robot Master ([[Donny Finkleberg]]) and uses him to spread anti-Autobot propaganda. {{storylink|I, Robot-Master!}} Soon after, Shockwave attempts (and fails) to capture Bumblebee. {{storylink|Plight of the Bumblebee!}}

''Buster Witwicky tries to prove his worth to the Autobots by trying to fight the Decepticons in robot armour, and is nearly killed by Shockwave.'' {{storylink|Robot Buster!}} ''Shockwave determines that affection for Buster is an Autobot weakness to exploit, but an attack on Buster is called off when it becomes clear the lad is having visions from the Matrix he once carried.'' {{storylink|Devastation Derby!}} ''The Autobots try to decipher the visions, with the Decepticons tapping in; both sides see the Matrix's vision of [[Special Teams]]. This prompts Megatron to make a play for Decepticon command again; Soundwave is forced to step in, getting Megatron and Shockwave to share command. A new [[Wyoming base|Decepticon base]] is established in [[Wyoming]]. The Dinobots are reactivated.'' {{storylink|Second Generation!}}

[[File:Cosmosisakillingmachine.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|For every time Cosmos crashed in the G1 cartoon, he kills a Decepticon in the Marvel comics. The Decepitcons were wiped out two issues after his first appearance.]]
On Cybertron, both an Autobot resistance cell and Decepticon leader [[Straxus (G1)|Straxus]] pick up a signal from Earth, becoming aware of the war there. Straxus builds the space bridge to link the two planets, using information taken from scientist [[Spanner (G1)|Spanner]], but the Autobots prevent the Decepticons crossing in force and destroy Straxus's body, at the cost of being stuck on Earth. {{storylink|The Smelting Pool!}} {{ storylink|The Bridge to Nowhere!}} They are rapidly captured by [[Rapid Anti-robot Assault Team|RAAT]], and Circuit Breaker. {{storylink|Heavy Traffic!}}

''Meanwhile, the Earth Autobots and Decepticons deal with the effects of the [[Purnel's Auto-Reverse Defence|PARD]] device.'' {{storylink|To a Power Unknown!}} Deciding to go on the offensive, Optimus has [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]] built and steals combiner technology from the Decepticons; the Decepticons suffer heavy losses, though Megatron regains full command, while the Autobots lose [[Skids (G1)|Skids]]. {{storylink|Command Performances!}} He is tempted to remain AWOL and avoid the war, but eventually rejoins—taking Finkleberg with him to inform the Autobots about the arrivals from Cybertron. {{storylink|Showdown!}} ''The Dinobots, bored from lack of action, assist journalist [[Joy Meadows]] in blowing open the Robot Master hoax; both Triple-I and the Decepticons attempt to prevent this. While the Dinobots are helped by [[Centurion (Marvel)|Centurion]] (really controlled by Professor Morris), the Decepticons still succeed.'' {{storylink|In the National Interest}} ''The Dinobots go AWOL with Centurion.''

[[File:MagnusVGalv2006.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.2]]
''The Cybertron resistance, led by [[Emirate]] [[Xaaron]], plan [[Operation: Volcano]]—a major strike on the Decepticon. But the arrival of time-travelling Decepticons [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]], [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] and [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]], which causes Optimus, Ratchet and Prowl to be sent to [[Limbo]] and Megatron to be offlined, throws the Autobots into a command crisis and has Volcano upset as Xaaron sends [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] to Earth to investigate. The confused Autobots suffer a humiliating defeat and turn to Megatron and Soundwave for leadership. Despite this, they lose again and Ultra Magnus has to step in to assist. Galvatron is eventually tricked into returning to the future by other time travellers, and Magnus goes home; a number of Autobots remain wounded. Volcano is called off when the [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]] are seconded to Earth under Megatron's orders, ruining Volcano's first strike; Autobot [[Wrecker]]s leader [[Impactor (G1)|Impactor]] is killed, however.'' {{storylink|Target: 2006}} ''The six Transformers stuck in Limbo, fall prey to the [[Limbo parasite|native parasites]]. They eventually escape them.'' {{storylink|Distant Thunder!}}

Optimus oversees the creation of the [[Aerialbot (G1)|Aerialbot]] Special Team, who battle the Insecticons and new Decepticon jets over the [[Hoover Dam]]; it's a near failure due to flaws with [[Superion (G1)|Superion]]. {{storylink|Aerialbots over America!}} ''Still, the Aerialbots are sent on another mission to test them once more—their phobias and flaws cause disaster, but Jetfire didn't witness this and so they're forced to struggle with their problems on their own.'' {{storylink|The Return of the Transformers}} Because of these flaws, Optimus KILLS AND REMAKES THEIR MINDS (bloody hell!) to fix them. [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]] lands a cerebro-shell in Prime's wound, and channels Matrix energy from him to make the [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticon]] Special Team. Skids and Finkleberg are sent to investigate the lost "[[Cybertron Seven]]", getting caught in an Aerialbot-Stunticon-RAAT battle. Finkleberg betrays Skids to RAAT for money. {{storylink|Heavy Traffic!}}

Back on Cybertron,<ref>Grimlock says Fortress Maximus left in 1986, and the ''Headmasters'' issues run from there to 1987. [http://transfans.co.uk/comics_guide_detail.php?id=166&page=8 #142 Grim Grams letters page] (We count it to the start of 1988 to fit in "Stargazing")</ref> rebel leader [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] has grown tired of the constant warfare and takes his squad, and anyone else who wishes to join, to the peaceful planet of [[Nebulos]] where they can avoid war. Unfortunately, the first encounter with [[Gort|a native]] goes badly wrong and the paranoid [[Zarak (G1)|Lord Zarak]] begins stirring up the population for a pre-emptive attack on the 'invaders'. Conflict almost breaks out but is defused when Fortress Maximus not only surrenders to [[World Watchers]] leader [[Galen Kord|Galen]], he and five others ''remove their heads'' as a gesture of complete faith in Nebulan mercy. {{storylink|Ring of Hate!}}

''After two tricky missions over the Christmas holidays, Jetfire visits Buster for some advice.'' {{storylink|The Gift}}

===1987===
RAAT continues to hunt down Autobots while Megatron enlists the Battlechargers to Earth. Their nationwide rampage forces Circuit-Breaker to cut a deal with RAAT's Autobot prisoners; in return for their help defeating the Battlechargers, they're released. Donny Finkleberg also cuts his RAAT ties. {{storylink|Decepticon Graffiti!}}

[[File:HarderTheyDie-Iaconno.jpg|thumb|upright=0.85]]
''Optimus Prime, worried how badly the Autobots did without him against Galvatron, works with Wheeljack to fake his own death as a test. However, when Megatron enlists the Predacons to Earth to kill Optimus — and they actually try to kill him too, on Shockwave's behalf — both leaders end up warped by Space Bridge to Cybertron, leaving the Autobots believing Optimus dead.''{{storylink|Prey!}} ''Insult to injury, Megatron uses the Cybertronian Decepticon's spy networks to spread a rumour of an Optimus impersonator; Prime is thus targeted by the Wreckers and Ultra Magnus, only surviving because they witness his concern for a wounded [[Outback (G1)|Outback]] and realise he's the real deal. Megatron, meanwhile, is undermining Lord Straxus' command with his presence and madness, but Straxus is plotting to swap his mind with the crippled Lord's, giving Straxus a new body. {{storylink|...The Harder They Die!}} {{storylink|Under Fire!}} {{storylink|Distant Thunder!}}

[[File:Trialbyfire-headmaster-rollcall.jpg|thumb|left|GAAAAH MY SPINE!!]] Back on Nebulos, Zarak continued to try and stir up trouble, but got more than he bargained for when he calls for aid against the Autobots and gets a Decepticon brigade under the command of [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]]. The Decepticons take advantage of the Autobot's surrender and attempt to conquer the planet, forcing Galen and Fortress Maximus into a compromise: scientist [[Arcana]] creates the [[binary bonding]] process, where five Nebulans (including himself and Galen) will become cyborgs that can transform ''into'' the heads of the five Autobots. The Decepticons are routed, with the "Headmaster" technology turning out to increase Autobot reaction speed and processing power. Unfortunately, now the war has spread to another planet. {{storylink|Broken Glass!}}

''On Earth, Galvatron has returned to the 1980s once more — displacing Skids into [[Limbo]]. He viciously damages Centurion and gives the [[Cybertron Seven]] and Dinobots a pasting before the Decepticons drive him off: Shockwave does ''not'' want the competition.'' {{storylink|Fallen Angel}} ''Blaster's crew arrive at the Ark to find the Autobots in mourning, while Prime himself rejuvantes the Cybertronian resistance and leads them to new victories. Straxus makes his move — and it goes wrong, as Megatron fights him off but is left mentally deranged. When Optimus returns to Earth by space bridge, Straxus' right-hand man [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] makes sure Megatron is sent away with him (and, accidentally, Ultra Magnus is sent too).'' {{storylink|Resurrection!}} ''Straxus' defeated consciousness flees into a cloned Megatron body, [[Project Re-Birth|his elaborate contingency plan]], and waits his chance.'' {{storylink|Two Megatrons!}} ''The Autobots celebrate Prime's return'' {{storylink|Resurrection!}} but in a cruel twist of fate, Optimus dies shortly after on a mission with the newly built Protectobots.

[[File:Afterdeath-gameoverman.jpg|thumb|upright=0.85|Prime dies so much he died ''before'' he died!]]
To prevent a destructive battle, the Autobots, Megatron and the new Combaticons agree to have a proxy fight in the video game [[Multi-World]], with the losing leader being destroyed by explosives. When Optimus wins the game by sacrificing the "lives" of its characters, he is left distraught at abandoning his principles and considers himself the loser. Unknown to the Transformers, game creator [[Ethan Zachary]] made a back-up copy of Prime's mind. {{storylink|Afterdeath!}} This comes in handy for Shockwave when his next attempt to kill Megatron — who ''is still mentally fragile'' and violently paranoid that Optimus faked his death — fails. A bluff causes Megatron to realise Optimus was backed up and he flees across the space bridge in a panic, blowing it up as he goes and seemingly dying. {{storylink|Gone but Not Forgotten!}} Instead he ends up in Cybertron in an amnesiac state, wandering around for years as an [[Empty]]. {{storylink|The Resurrection Gambit!}} Shockwave is now in charge of Earth but quickly finds himself dependent on Ratbat, a more hands-on Cybertronian leader. {{storylink|King of the Hill!}}

The Autobots hold Optimus's funeral, launching his body into space {{storylink|Funeral for a Friend!}} (not realising the Matrix is still in it) {{storylink|Deathbringer (issue)|Deathbringer}} and a group of top officers try to work out who should replace him. Grimlock and his Dinobots make a return to the Ark, intent on taking the job; he is initially repulsed, but shows the skills necessary for leadership when he fights off [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]]. {{storylink|King of the Hill!}}

''During all this, Galvatron has been working on a new plan: a [[power siphon]] over an active volcano ([[Mount Verona]]), which will draw the energy off the [[Earth's core]] into himself — devastating the North America west coast. Ultra Magnus is drawn into this when he tries saving a human, [[Cindy Newell]], from Galvatron's fire barrier and gets himself beaten into submission. Luckily, a team of future Autobots under [[Hot Rod/Marvel Comics continuity|Rodimus Prime]] have arrived.'' {{storylink|Burning Sky!}} ''Unfortunately, so did a 2007 mercenary called [[Death's Head (G1)|Death's Head]], looking for the reward money on Galvatron; he blew up Bumblebee to cover his tracks.'' {{storylink|Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive!}} [[File:Goldbugorigins.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.1|And every British person browsing this page just shivered and felt dirty inside.]] ''Time-traveller Wreck-Gar rebuilds the Autobot into a new, stronger form named Goldbug. Death's Head and Rodimus Prime both end up battling Galvatron for their own reasons, allowing Ultra Magnus to sabotage the siphon as a delaying action, and the Autobots rig a [[Time-jump trigger device|time-jump override]] to force Galvatron back to their own timeline. Unfortunately, Galvatron had a countermeasure in place: only the Autobots and Death's Head are sent, leaving Goldbug'' {{storylink|Hunters}} {{storylink|Fire on High!}} ''and Magnus alone against him. Magnus is forced to sacrifice himself to stop the siphon, and he and Galvatron are entombed in Mount Verona.'' {{storylink|Vicious Circle!}}

{{note|In the US run, a [[G.I. Joe (team)|G.I. Joe]] crossover occurs simultaneously with the events of "Afterdeath!" through "King of the Hill!" — literally so, with Optimus and Megatron's deaths happening between issues [[G.I. Joe and the Transformers|of the miniseries]]. In it, [[Cobra]] steal the prototype [[Power Station Alpha]] which the Decepticons also covet; the two decide to team up, though Shockwave plans to modify Alpha and use it to suck Earth dry of natural energy. The Autobots and G.I. Joe have already teamed up — after a brief misunderstanding destroys Bumblebee, but the Joes rebuild him into Goldbug to make up for it — and when Cobra joins forces as well, the Decepticons lose. However, the Decepticon upgrades made Power Station Alpha partially sentient. The Autobots knew this and were disgusted when Cobra destroyed it anyway. (All of this is ignored by the US/UK run, as the UK hadn't got to that part of the Joe run yet.}}

Goldbug goes back to the Ark to find Grimlock is ''not'' handling power well, to the extent of wearing a crown. The new commander orders Grimlock and Blaster to recover stolent Autobot tech from a human supervillain called the [[Mechanic (G1)|Mechanic]], authorising the loss of human lives if necessary. When the Mechanic escapes, the Autobots decide to go AWOL rather than stay with Grimlock {{storylink|Mechanical Difficulties!}} and decide to fight Decepticons on their own. Their first solo mission leads them to a crashed Decepticon ship which is infected with [[Scraplet]]s. Both they and the Decepticon [[Triple Changer]]s are infected, with Goldbug and a [[Charlie Fong|human ally]] fleeing for a cure. Luckily, the cure turns out to be water. Even more luckily, Ratbat intervened by forcing the rebel [[Throttlebot]]s to go to Earth and kill all the infected (so ''he'' won't have to scorch the whole planet). With the extra numbers, the Scraplets are defeated and the fugitives now have a larger gang. Unfortunately, the ship's cargo has survived and the Decepticons brainwashed G.B. Blackrock into {{storylink|Crater Critters}} using it to create [[Wash and Roll|car washes]] that brainwash humans into handing their fuel over to the Decepticons. {{storylink|Buster Witwicky and the Car Wash of Doom}} ''Back at the Ark, the Autobots are getting more and more disgruntled at Grimlock's command, and especially with the Dinobot wasting so many Autobot's time by sending them after the fugitives. {{storylink|Ancient Relics!}}

[[File:ActionForce Dragonflies.jpg|left|thumb|upright=1.1]]
''Word reaches Straxus' cloning team that Megatron is dead, so they send Straxus in his cloned body down to Earth (under [[London]]) to take advantage. Unfortunately for Straxus, his consciousness was 'infected' with Megatron's: the clone believes he's Megatron and suppresses Straxus within himself.'' {{storylink|Two Megatrons!}} ''This Megatron goes on a rampage, opposed by both the human [[Action Force (team)|Action Force]] counter-terrorists and a handful of Autobots, thanks to [[Blades (G1)|Blades]] and Grimlock mistaking Megatron's signal for Goldbug and Blaster. The battle is only won when Centurion sacrifices himself to keep Megatron in the path of a missile strike.'' {{storylink|Ancient Relics!}}

[[File:Ratbatcarwash.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|He'd have gotten away with it, if not for that meddling kid!]]
Ratbat arrives on Earth and takes full command away from Shockwave, while his car wash plan is rolled out across the United States; the second phase is to permanently brainwash all the patrons. Luckily, the Autobot's old friend Buster Witwicky discovers the plot by accident and is able to free Blackrock from mind control. {{storylink|Buster Witwicky and the Car Wash of Doom}}

''The Dinobot Swoop and the Predacon Divebomb duke it out once more, but the humiliation of having to be saved by the others causes Swoop to man up and admit to his friends that he'd had to be saved by Prime the first time round. (Grimlock has known for months but deliberately kept quiet)'' {{storylink|Grudge Match!}} ''In Oregon, Galvatron's remains are found and Shockwave orders him destroyed by the Combaticons; Cindy Newell recruits Joy Meadows and archaeologist [[Susan Hoffman]] to help her stop them and save the vulnerable Magnus, with last-minute aid from the Throttlebots. Nobody realises the battle woke Galvatron up.'' {{storylink|Ladies' Night (issue)|Ladies' Night}}

Over at Nebulos, the increasingly destructive war is causing the people and the [[Council of Peers]] to grow disgruntled with the Autobots as well as the Decepticons. Zarak makes a deal with Scorponok: in exchange for his life and in the hope of making Nebulos safe, he will help the Decepticons replicate the Headmaster process (and become Scorponok's own partner). Unprepared for this and concerned with protecting the Nebulans, the Autobot Headmasters are captured and the planet convinced that ''Zarak'' had saved the Peers. {{storylink|Love and Steel!}} Scorponok's more brutal instincts begin to override Zarak's own, and his war against the Autobots only increases the destruction. {{storylink|Brothers in Armor!!}}

[[File:Blasterbeourleaderplease.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.1]]
''Out for revenge'' the Combaticons chase Blaster and the Throttlebots across the country, with RAAT (who've worked out the Autobot-Blackrock link) setting ambushes at every Blackrock petrol station. The fugitives take refuge at a used car lot but are betrayed by [[Big Steve Ludwig (G1)|the owner]], who sells them out to RAAT. The Throttlebots are all captured, while the Protectobots intervene to 'save' Blaster for his court martial at the Ark. {{storylink|Used Autobots}} They then leave him in mode-lock while they engage the Combaticons. A group of human children find and save Blaster, and with their help Blaster saves the Protectobots. A grateful [[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Spot]] decides to let Blaster "escape", and the rebel lets the humans take a ride on a mode-locked [[Blast Off (G1)|Blast Off]]. That turns out to be a mistake: it's noticed by the Ark {{storylink|Child's Play (issue)|Child's Play}} and Blast Off, with the young "[[Spacehikers]]", is captured. The Autobots are willing to rebel against Grimlock now, as long as Blaster is willing to lead them, but he's forced to surrender rather than let the children be hurt. {{storylink|Spacehikers!}}

''A wandering Starscream learns the meaning of Christmas but doesn't care.'' {{storylink|Stargazing}}
{{-}}

===1988===
[[File:Enemy action seacons.JPG|thumb|upright=0.85|Livin' the thuk life]]
''Galvatron tricks Shockwave into attacking him first by acting as shifty as possible, then lies to the Decepticons that he'd only been coming to talk but now they've made him an enemy: thus undermining his rival. A rattled Shockwave decides to find Megatron's body and use him as a disposable anti-Galvatron asset. (The Cybertron Decepticons try to recruit Galvatron and the [[Sparkabot]]s try to stop this happening, but Galvatron doesn't give a toss about either of them)'' {{storylink|Enemy Action!}} Ratbat, meanwhile, is getting things done: the Decepticons no longer have any Autobots on Earth to stop them and he's having them openly loot whatever they want. RAAT, still refusing to notice factions exist, threaten to execute the Throttlebots unless the Decepticons stop (so of course they don't). [[Walter Barnett (G1)|Walter Barnett]] realises the truth and smuggles their processors out in toy cars, and turns to Buster Witwicky for help in contacting the Autobots. Buster and Goldbug reach Mount St. Hilary and use the abandoned equipment to send out an SOS, but Ratbat catches up with them and gleefully captures his old enemy. RAAT have publicly learned the difference in factions and take a public beating {{storylink|Toy Soldiers!}}, and now Buster is used as a hostage to prevent them attacking the [[Club Con|Decepticon island base]]. {{storylink|The Desert Island of Space!}}

[[File:G138 spike in control.jpg|thumb|left|upright=0.85]]
The SOS reaches Nebulos, right as the war ramps up with the creation of the next binary bonded partners: the [[Targetmaster (technology)|Targetmasters]], Nebulan freedom fighters who turn into weaponry. The first battle sees the destruction of [[the Nursery]], forcing Zarak to realise he's being changed for the worse. Aghast, he releases the Autobot Headmasters. {{storylink|Brothers in Armor!!}} ''After another brief battle'' {{storylink|Worlds Apart!}} Galen/Fortress Maximus decide they should answer the SOS in the hope that, if the Autobots leave Nebulos, the Decepticons will follow. {{storylink|Brothers in Armor!!}} After they arrive at Earth, they encounter [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike Witwicky]]: Buster's older brother, out to find his sibling. When the Decepticons follow, Galen is killed in battle against Scorponok; Spike's bravery and resourcefulness in the battle see him chosen to be Maximus' new Headmaster partner. {{storylink|Trial by Fire!}}

His first mission is to rescue Buster from the Earth Decepticon's base. He fails but defeats Shockwave, sending the villain plummeting through the atmosphere. Ratbat allows Shockwave to be lost {{storylink|The Desert Island of Space!}} ''but Shockwave survives, gathers some troops at the abandoned [[Fortress Sinister]], and has 'Megatron's' body salvaged. Straxus's consciousness battles Megatron's for control, and loses. The Sparkabots simultaneously dig Ultra Magnus out of Mount Verona; the warrior is traumatised by his experiences but recovers in time to force Galvatron into retreat, the first time he's ever won that battle.'' {{storylink|Salvage!}} Maximus's Autobots learn about Ethan Zachary and his back-up of Optimus Prime's mind: while the back-up is sentient, it believes it's a video game character. The backup is used to help the Autobots steal Scorponok's new Pretender technology, giving both sides a Pretender squad. RAAT are humiliated yet again {{storylink|Pretender to the Throne!}} and the government scraps them for their failures. {{storylink|The Human Factor!}}

''Meanwhile on Cybertron,<ref>Part One, published on the 19th August 1989, says it's "14 months ago" (i.e. June) but the Micromasters have clearly been built shortly before then</ref> two events have happened: [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] has risen to prominence and the resource-starved Autobot resistance have created the [[Micromaster]] process. The [[Battle Patrol]] are the first Autobots to downsize.'' {{storylink|A Small War!}}

[[File:Zombieskalis.jpg|thumb|upright=0.85|Mindless, ancient corpses have risen and they're buying He-Man!]]
''The mad scientist [[Flame (Marvel)|Flame]] reactivates Megatron's old planetary engine under [[Kalis]]. In order to protect his plan, he turns every corpse in the city into a [[zombie]]; Kalis is abandoned and the Wreckers and Xaaron captured. Three weeks later, the Sparkabots and Magnus — unaware of the crisis — return to Cybertron and, with the help of both their fellow rebels and the Decepticons, defeat Flame before his experiments can destroy Cybertron.''{{storylink|City of Fear!}} {{storylink|Legion of the Lost!}} {{storylink|Meltdown!}} ''Magnus intends to return to Earth with the Wreckers to stop Galvatron, but he's distracted by shutting down alien-run deathmatches in [[Tyrest (polity)|Tyrest]].'' {{storylink|Deadly Games!}} ''Making matters worse, the Wreckers warp to Earth to find Galvatron in a human city, with Cyclonus and Scourge — who want his time-jump device so they can go home — present. They're forced to withdraw. Cyclonus and Scourge, worried about Galvatron, seek sanctuary from Shockwave.'' {{storylink|Wrecking Havoc}}

''While this goes on''<ref>That whole "fourteen months" thing would strictly mean "A Small War" takes place ''during'' "Deadly Games" and "Wrecking Havoc"</ref>''Thunderwing tricks the Battle Patrol into an ambush and uses them to create Decepticon Micromasters. [[Roadhandler (G1)|Roadhandler]] is sent to kill the Battle Patrol to prevent this but his team ignore the order, and Xaaron admits it had been made in error.'' {{storylink|A Small War!}}

Unable to rebuild Optimus Prime, Maximus decides to approach Grimlock for aid. Grimlock refuses to give it or share any command, and it's arranged for him to fight Blaster (standing in for Maximus) to [[Code of Combat|decide leadership]]. Instead, the two are forced to work together when Ratbat's army attacks mid-fight, almost wiping out the Autobots. Grimlock agrees to work with others and Maximus has Goldbug go to Nebulos for help with Prime. {{storylink|Totaled!}} The Nebulans have poisoned all fuel sources to keep the Transformers out, but the bitter scientist [[Hi-Test]] created the Powermaster process — a form of binary bonding where a Nebulan becomes an engine — and [[Darkwing]] and [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]] ravage the planet. Goldbug's three teammates become Autobot Powermasters to compensate, thanks to [[Hi-Q]]; more importantly, Optimus Prime is successfully resurrected but, out of necessity, has to be turned intn a Powermaster. {{storylink|People Power!}} ''Optimus Prime was secretly left disconnected from his old life: he remembered everything but did not emotionally understand it.'' {{storylink|Cold Comfort and Joy!}} On their way back to Earth, the Autobots rescue the Spacehikers and their friend [[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]] from the [[Cosmic Carnival]]. {{storylink|The Cosmic Carnival}}

''A Wreckers recon team is sent to Earth in advance of a second attack on Galvatron.'' {{storylink|Firebug!}} ''Unfortunately, things spiral out of control when Shockwave learns that Cyclonus and Scourge will kill him in 2008. He sics the brainwashed Megatron on them and has Cyclonus killed: dying before he was created is a paradox that damages space-time itself.'' {{storylink|Dry Run!}} ''Megatron is then sent after Galvatron... just as Galvatron wanted. He convinces his past self to team up with him.'' {{storylink|Altered Image!}} ''Meanwhile, Shockwave's attempts to understand the paradoxes and his death cause him to go steadily insane.'' {{storylink|Dry Run!}}

[[File:MonsterconFromMars Skullgrinmania.jpg|thumb|left|upright=0.95]]
While the Autobots are stranded on the moon, Scorponok's faction increase their operations on Earth. They create the [[Z Foundation]] front to raise money for anti-Transformer activity and spread anti-robot hate {{storylink|Ca$h and Car-nage!}}, and send the Pretender [[Skullgrin]] to scout for energy. Skullgrin achieves this by (we're not joking) becoming a media celebrity. Both plans go wrong when Circuit-Breaker blows Skullgrin's cover {{storylink|Monstercon from Mars!}} and the Z Foundation's hired mercs, the [[Roadjammers]], blow ''that'' cover. {{storylink|Ca$h and Car-nage!}} Things go even worse when the Autobots do get back to Earth and Scorponok targets [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]]: the Autobot is able to successfully rip off his head, leaving a paralysed Zarak in his custody. {{storylink|All in the Minds!}}

''Optimus Prime regained control of the Earth Autobot force, sweet-talking a reluctant Grimlock into giving up power.'' {{storylink|The Quest!}} He learned that Ratbat's Decepticons had not only declared their island base as a sovereign nation with Buster as its monarch, ensuring it was protected from human action by international law, they'd set up [[Club Con|a holiday resort]] there to have an endless stream of human shields. This enabled them to search that part of the sea for two lost [[Mini-Cassette]] and their data on the [[Underbase]]. The Autobots sent Buster's girlfriend [[Jesse (G1)|Jesse]] in as a "tourist" so she could smuggle Blaster in but while they learned the plot, they could not get the data themselves. Ratbat and Starscream (and a watching Buster) learned the Underbase would soon arrive in Earth's solar system, and Starscream began a-plotting. {{storylink|Club Con!}} {{storylink|The Flames of Boltax!}}

''On Christmas, the Wreckers accidentally hurt humans in an attempt to join in their celebrations. This caused the resurrected Prime to realise his obsessive duty towards Earth was down to guilt that he brought war to them.'' {{storylink|Cold Comfort and Joy!}} ''Soon after this, the [[time rift]] caused by Cyclonus's death began to reach both Earth and Cybertron.'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}
{{-}}

===1989===
[[File:TimeWars-OptimusPrimeentersthefray.jpg|upright=1.4|thumb]]
''The new year started with the time rift causing natural disasters across Earth. The Autobots worked out Galvatron was responsible but were distracted first by the arrival of Scorponok's Decepticons, successfully retrieving their leader's head, and the arrival of future Transformers (which sent Optimus to limbo). Eventually, the present and future Bot/Cons agreed to work together against the mutual threat. Meanwhile, the Wreckers had teamed up with their Decepticon counterparts, the [[Mayhem Attack Squad]], but had been massacred by the Megatron-Galvatron teamup. When other allied forces arrived, Galvatron had gone completely insane from conflicting memories (causing Megatron to simply walk off in disgust). Eventually the time rift devoured Galvatron; Scourge, just wanting the madness to end, sacrificed himself; and Shockwave, talked out of madness by Ravage, arrived with Cyclonus' body. With all three gone, the rift ended. Mayhem leader Carnivac ignored his orders to kill the remaining Wreckers.'' {{storylink|Time Wars}} ''Megatron stealing the Mayhem's ship left both special ops teams stranded on Earth, while Galvatron's departure meant Skids was finally returned to Earth from Limbo.'' {{storylink|Survivors!}}

[[File:Newyorkunderbase.jpg|left|upright=1.2|thumb|Oh like you care about Hoist.]]
Starscream manipulated Scorponok and Ratbat's factions into a disastrous meeting, then Buster into summoning the Autobots (who would unite the 'Cons by arriving and be brutalised): all so he could get the Underbase himself. {{storylink|Cold War!}} By the time the Transformers had stopped fighting, Starscream had got to the power source. The Decepticon's island base was destroyed and the armies only survived because the newly godlike Starscream, boasting about the first Earth cities he'd level, couldn't be bothered to kill them. The Autobot-Decepticon force pursued him and learned, too late, that only binary-bonded and Pretender Transformers were immune to the Underbase powers: by the time Starscream and the Underbase were destroyed, almost all of the 'traditional' Transformers were dead, Soundwave and Ratchet being rare exceptions. Scorponok (who had killed Ratbat during the crisis) and Optimus Prime parted with their losses. {{storylink|Dark Star}}

With Buster safe, Spike Witwicky decided to retire as a Headmaster: costing the Autobots' Fortress Maximus. Optimus reluctantly let him go. However, the two were still mentally bonded. This was handy when Scorponok hired Carnivac and [[Snarler]] to kill off the human and Spike used their psychic link to summon Maximus for aid. {{storylink|The Man in the Machine!}} The remaining Autobots, reeling from their losses, tried searching for new sources of parts to rebuild their troops. The Pretenders [[Cloudburst]] and [[Landmine (G1)|Landmine]] tried to get black market microchips but unfortunately, the main suppliers were the [[Mecannibal]]s: robots that devoured other robots and kept the microchips after. Unable to stomach (ho ho) this, and their identities as tasty robots exposed, the Autobots instead forced the Mecannibals to rebuild many of their meals. On their way out, they managed to steer the killers towards the Decepticons Darkwing and Dreadwind. {{storylink|Guess Who the Mecannibals Are Having for Dinner?}} {{storylink|Recipe for Disaster!}}

''Meanwhile on Cybertron, there was a further leader shakeup when Megatron deposed the decadent and lazy [[Triumverate]]. He was now confident, calm, and able to control his bloodlust, 'knowing' he was to become the unbeatable Galvatron so why worry?'' {{storylink|The Fall and Rise of the Decepticon Empire.}}

The ''original'' Megatron, wandering half-dead and insane around the [[Dead End (place)|Dead End]], regains his mind when he sees Autobots cornering [[Blackjack]]. {{storylink|The Resurrection Gambit!}} ''He hired Darkwing and Dreadwind to track down the corpse of Starscream for use in a scheme. The [[Triggerbot]]s shadowed them as they arrived in Earth's orbit and pursued them to [[Peru]]. Starscream's corpse was walking around, powered by Underbase energy, and the Autobots hoped to save the 'base but were unable to stop the Decepticons killing it and taking the body. {{storylink|Race with the Devil}}

[[File:Megatrong1marveltwomegatrons.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|"NO! '''NO!''' YOU ARE NOT MAKING ME WORK OUT THE BLOODY CONTINUITY OF THIS!!!"]]
''The surviving members of the Wreckers and Mayhem Attack Squad, out of contact with their comrades, met up and Carnivac proposed they team up; in doing so, they saved Skids from the monstrous hordes of Limbo. Snarler threatened to kill Carnivac.'' {{storylink|Survivors!}} ''At this point on Cybertron''<ref>This is a best guess by the wiki: Megatron's clone has to die before the Air Strike Patrol arrive on Earth, the following UK story to "Survivors!" is the in-another-timeline "[[Aspects of Evil!]]", and "[[(Double) Deal of the Century!]]" requires Micromasters to be with Prime.</ref>'', the Straxus-clone Megatron is suffering a breakdown as Straxus's mind tries to take over again; the real Megatron arrives in a moment of weakness. When the clone realises the truth, he kills himself to defeat Straxus, leaving Megatron secretly in charge.'' {{storylink|Two Megatrons!}} ''Elsewhere on Cybertron, a newly formed Mayhem Attack Squad under [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] (and including Snarler) have formed to kill Carnivac'' {{storylink|The Hunting Party (Marvel)|The Hunting Party}} ''and the [[Decepticon High Council]] decide to test Thunderwing to see if he was fit to take control of the (apparently) now-leaderless Cybertronian forces.''<ref>Strictly speaking, this story should run before the fourteen-months-earlier-set "A Small War" but the subsequent run of Thunderwing stories are clearly meant to run now-ish. It also makes more sense for it to happen after Megatron or Megatron's clone are dead, so... basically the wiki is cheating a bit.</ref> ''Thunderwing's test saw him hunt down Autobots on Earth, but the new Headmaster [[Nightbeat (G1)|Nightbeat]] was able to stop him, using one of the Autobot victim's corpses to incinerate their killer.'' {{storylink|The Big Shutdown!}}

[[File:Jakethejackhammer.jpg|thumb|left|upright=0.6]]
In need of reinforcements, Optimus Prime requested aid from Cybertron and got the Micromaster [[Off Road Patrol]] and [[Race Car Patrol]]. The crews had an attitude problem and little respect for Prime, and after successfully thwarted Scorponok's plot to absorb lightning to power his new [[New Jersey (Earth)|New Jersey]] base, they broke ties to set up shop in [[New York City]] all on their own. With the help of reporter [[Cecilia Santiago]], they gained human favour by fighting crime, teaching defence classes to kids, and Roadhandler becoming a pro-wrestling career. Lord Zarak put a stop to this by threatening to kill innocent humans in Roadhandler's fan club unless he 'took a dive' in a match against a Decepticon. Rather than keep risking innocents, Roadhandler insulted his fan club and publicly quit to severe all ties, returning to Prime's team afterwards. {{storylink|King Con!}} {{storylink|The Interplanetary Wrestling Championship!}}

''[[Doubledealer]] used his two robot modes to con Optimus and Scorponok for personal profit.'' {{storylink|(Double) Deal of the Century!}} ''Soon after, Optimus admitted to his troops that the Matrix had been accidentally left inside his original corpse and, having been shot into space, could not be used to bring them back. Coincidentally enough, that day a Matrix-powered [[Deathbringer (Marvel)|Deathbringer]] landed in Colorado and went on a rampage until Nightbeat talked it into suicide: losing them a chance to find the Matrix.'' {{storylink|Deathbringer (issue)|Deathbringer}} {{note|Although "Deathbringer" is a UK-only story, unusually its events are referenced in US issue [[Dark Creation|#65]] and so can also be assumed to form part of US continuity.}} ''Further tragedy hit when Carnivac, briefly storming away from the Survivors, was cornered by the Mayhems and chased from [[Texas]] into [[Mexico]]. Unwilling to let humans die (after he ''had'' allowed others to die so he could escape Texas), Carnivac gave up but was saved... only for Catilla to be killed in his place. Carnivac swore vengeance.'' {{storylink|Way of the Warrior}} {{storylink|Survival Run}} {{storylink|A Savage Place!}}

''Thunderwing reactivated and went on a brutal rampage until the Decepticons found him, requesting he come back to Cybertron. He instead pressganged them into a brazen attack on the Ark, out for revenge for his past humiliation; ''[[Ruckus (G1)|Ruckus]]'' had to get him to back down. However, this single-mindedness and ambition meant that the Decepticon High Council approved him as the new leader.'' {{storylink|Rage!}} {{storylink|Assault on the Ark!}} ''His first act was to abolish all neutral territory, which among other things meant [[Maccadam's Old Oil House]] became a Decepticon-only place.'' {{storylink|Out to Lunch!}}

[[File:Autobotclassicpretenders-us58.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb]]
Ratchet was on the verge of a breakdown by the demands to repair the many Autobots, making him easy prey for Megatron: while the Air Strike Patrol drew the Autobot forces into a battle with Scorponok, the [[Sports Car Patrol]] infiltrate the Ark pretending to be Autobots and take him to Cybertron to use its medical tech. Once there, Megatron forces him to rebuild Starscream as a Pretender, threatening to blow up the Ark if not, and sends the new, reprogrammed Starscream to bring Earth to heel for him. The plan went awry when Prime ''talked'' to Lord Zarak and pointed out they were being manipulated, leaving them in a stronger position to resist Starscream; and Ratchet had not just sabotaged the Decepticon's reprogramming so his loyalty would end mid-fight, he'd secretly used Megatron's Pretender shells to fix Grimlock, Jazz, and Bumblebee (Ratchet just liked him better than Goldbug). In an act of sacrifice, Ratchet used a [[trans-time dimensional portal]] to warp the explosives off the Ark and into Megatron's base, seemingly killing them both {{storylink|Back from the Dead}} {{storylink|The Resurrection Gambit!}} {{storylink|All the Familiar Faces!}} {{storylink|Skin Deep}} but actually merging them into a pain-ridden fusion in dimensional space. {{storylink|Eye of the Storm}}.

The loss of Ratchet sent Optimus into a depressive episode. {{storylink|Yesterday's Heroes!}} ''The loss of Megatron left Darkwing and Dreadwind unemployed, and they drowned their sorrows at Maccadam's (never noticing the Mecannibals had followed them and were fighting [[Quickswitch]].'' {{storylink|Out to Lunch!}} ''The resurrected Starscream also fell into depression, believing he was a laughing stock (even as Scorponok's men freaked out when they saw him)''. {{storylink|Fallen Star!}} Meanwhile, the Autobot Classic Pretenders were left stranded on Cybertron and fell in with Xaaron's rebels.

[[File:Demons senior.png|upright=1.1|thumb|left]]
''Three [[Autobot Military Academy]] cadets messed around in the [[Underworld]], with only [[Tailgate (G1)|Tailgate]] coming back alive. Their fight with the [[Mutant (G1)|mutants]] had woken up some of the [[Demon]]s that lurked under Cybertron and they committed an attack on Decepticons that was so horrible, it drove [[Seawatch]] catatonic and meant the Classic Pretenders had to prove it wasn't an Autobot killing to prevent reprisals. While the demons were eventually killed, Xaaron worried that there may be thousands more waiting to emerge. ''{{storylink|Underworld!}} {{storylink|Demons!}} {{storylink|Dawn of Darkness}}

''Beating up Autobots got Starscream out of his funk and scheming again''{{storylink|Fallen Star!}} at the worst time for Scorponok, as the Decepticons were angry that he was allowing the bastard responsible for the Underbase massacre to stick around. {{storylink|The Primal Scream}} Meanwhile, the Autobots grew worried Prime may actually just give up on the war entirely. An amok Guardian droid cleared his head; when he saw it attacking Autobots, he decided that to give up now would dishonour the dead. On Cybertron, the Classic Pretenders proved such a boost for the Autobots that Thunderwing ordered the Mayhem Attack Squad to take them out. Ironically, the Mayhems attacked when the Autobots were being warped back to Earth and ended up sending the whole group deep into Cybertron...

[[File:PrimalScream-Unicron.jpg|upright=0.9|thumb|"Wha-- Oh crap, sorry, I forgot I was in this."]]
...right to the centre, where the face of the slumbering god [[Primus]] was. The [[Keeper (Transformer)|Keeper]], guardian of the chamber, berated the arrivals and recounted the origins of the Transformers, warning that if Primus woke then Unicron would be alerted to his presence. Unfortunately the Mayhems, not hearing the warning, launched a second attack and a ricochet from [[Octopunch (G1)|Octopunch]] did indeed wake their god. His primal scream blasted the Transformers back to Earth, shook the planet... and alerted Unicron to Cybertron's whereabouts, years earlier than he would have otherwise learned it. {{storylink|The Primal Scream}}

''In the run-up to Christmas'', the Autobots began arranging a desperate "[[Matrix Quest]]": it was clear to all that their only hope against Unicron was the Creation Matrix, alleged source of Primus' power. {{storylink|Bird of Prey!}} ''Longtooth wasn't paying much attention to the briefings, finally succumbing to guilt for keeping a piece of the Matrix, a get-out-of-death-free card, when others did not. He sent it to Optimus'' {{storylink|Whose Lifeforce Is It Anyway?}} ''who pondered on Christmas Day which of the Autobots he should use it to resurrect. After seeing the destruction caused to a forest by a Transformer battle, he instead used the fragment to repair some of the damage they'd brought to Earth.'' {{storylink|The Greatest Gift of All!}}
{{-}}

===1990-91===
[[File:DarkCreation we would know more.jpg|thumb|upright=1.3]]
The Autobots narrowed down the Matrix's location to ''a'' part of the galaxy and sent four teams to search for it. Unfortunately, Thunderwing detected them and personally led a squad (''of his old "Assault on the Ark" crew'') to find out what was going on. Nightbeat's team were able to save [[Pz-Zazz]] from an apocalypse, only to be gunned down, taken prisoner, and interrogated by the Decepticons. {{storylink|Bird of Prey!}} Thunderwing soon decided to acquire the Matrix for himself, even as Optimus Prime tried to make contact with the Matrix and instead saw visions of darkness{{storylink|Kings of the Wild Frontier.}} as the Matrix had been quite corrupted by exposure to the Deathbringer, a [[Matrixspawn|minor parasite]], and the intoxicating sensation of murder and evil. Its "[[Matrixspawn]]" slaughtered an entire [[VsQs Exploration Team|astronaut team]]. {{storylink|Dark Creation}}

[[File:AllFallDown-Thunderwingpossessed.jpg|thumb|upright=0.9|left|They sure like giving [[Geoff Senior]] the creepy ones, eh?]]
The [[Triggerbot]]s were almost lost at [[Cheyne]], manipulated and fed on by [[Vrobian|psychic parasites]], until the Decepticons inadvertently cleared Dogfight's mind by beating him for information. {{storylink|Kings of the Wild Frontier.}} Longtooth's team had more luck, investigating the return of an extinct animal on [[Pequod]] that was caused by a Matrix fragment; Longtooth himself went nuts after the [[Klud]] ripped his leg off, allowing the Decepticons to steal a lead and track the fragment to the moon of [[VsQs]]. {{storylink|Deadly Obsession}} The Classic Pretenders reached VsQs first but Thunderwing tore through them, and the Matrixspawn proved a distraction for all concerned. In the end it was Thunderwing who gained the Matrix and it gave itself to him. He went to the Ark {{storylink|Dark Creation}} and began to slaughter the Autobots, who were restricted in their defence for fear of damaging the Matrix. Once the Decepticon was damaged enough, however, the Matrix took control of him and manifested a demonic form, making it clear things had gone too far. Nightbeat, escaped from his cell, ended up blasting the Decepticon into space and the Matrix with it.

Luckily, only three were killed. ''Sixty billion'' died as Unicron devoured the planet [[Ghennix]], creating some minions from three 'lucky' survivors {{storylink|All Fall Down}} and sending them to an alternate dimension to "recruit" the local [[Galvatron II|Galvatron]] {{storylink|Rhythms of Darkness!}}, forcing him to act as an advance guard against Cybertron. {{storylink|Eye of the Storm}}

[[File:HumanFactor-RaptureThunderpunch.jpg|upright=0.7|thumb]]
Back on Earth, the American government had hired Blackrock to form a more effective counter-Transformer team. He'd decided to recruit [[Mutant (human)|the rare few superhumans]] into a 'superhero' team called the [[Neo-Knights]] because of course. After the superhuman "[[Dynamo]]" had obliterated the Air Strike Patrol team, the Neo-Knights went off to try and recruit him; so did an AWOL Starscream, hoping to use him as a Powermaster so he could challenge Scorponok; and Circuit-Breaker, looking for her own ally. In the end, Blackrock recruited both Dynamo and a reluctant Circuit-Breaker, while Starscream found himself recruited by a resurgent Shockwave {{storylink|The Human Factor!}} who'd been spying on Scorponok for a while and saw an opening to seize control. {{storylink|All Fall Down}} As well as losing the support of troops, Scorponok's Headmaster partner, Zarak, was becoming the dominant mind (to the extent of no longer considering himself/them the 'real' Scorponok).

While the bulk of the Autobots relaxed, Grimlock—bitter Thunderwing defeated him and that he is the only living Dinobot—went AWOL to go to [[Hydrus Four]], hoping to use its bizarre new 'miracle fuel' [[Nucleon]] to bring back the Dinobots. After fighting his way past demented creatures to get Nucleon, he learned it could bring back his comrades but with potentially hideous side effects; he tested it on himself and, when it didn't immediately do anything bad, decided to risk it. The Decepticons too suffered AWOL troops as Scorponok's authority suffered, said troops being pressganged into Shockwave's new army; and Prime's own authority suffered when he announced there'd be an unconditional surrender to Scorponok to start an anti-Unicron alliance. When Ratchet was retrieved from interdimensional space and found to be merged with Megatron, this would undermine his attempts to save the merged creature. Kup threatened to invoke the [[Crisis Act]] unless it was killed and while this didn't happen, nobody was happy when Optimus ordered Ratchet saved even though it meant saving Megatron. {{storylink|Eye of the Storm}} {{storylink|The Pri¢e of Life!}}

[[File:Allthisandcivilwar-arethey.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.5]]
Scorponok agreed to accept Prime's surrender as part of anti-Unicron negotiations but began to put all that off, too aware that this surrender was keeping his leadership afloat. While Zarak felt guilty about screwing them over, Optimus had to break out and confront him—while he was able to get through to Zarak, Shockwave launched his attack that very moment. The two rival leaders fought all the way into [[New York City|Manhattan]], forcing the [[President of the United States]] to call out the Neo-Knights; desperate to stop this [[Decepticon Civil War|new conflict]] stopping the fight against Unicron, Optimus led the Autobots in Scorponok's defence and a three way battle broke out until Circuit-Breaker attack Shockwave in a long-awaited revenge and Scorponok was convinced to stand down.

Meanwhile, the new Galvatron had led Hook, Line, and Sinker in tearing through the Autobot rebels on Cybertron. Galvatron pursued Xaaron into the bowels of Cybertron... and stopped attacking when he learned Unicron could also be stopped if every child of Primus came together. While Galvatron killed his fellow Heralds to keep Xaaron safe, the aged leader made contact with Primus and every active Transformer on Earth and Cybertron (plus the Neo-Knights by accident) was warped to the same place. {{storylink|Surrender!}} {{storylink|...All This and Civil War 2}} {{storylink|Out of Time!}}

[[File:They are YOU splash page.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66]]
(The Dinobots came back to find the Ark abandoned, shrugged, and started Nucleoning all the dead guys. Grimlock certainly wasn't suffering random paralysis as a side effect!){{storylink|...All This and Civil War 2}} {{storylink|The Void! (US)|The Void!}}

Primus appointed Optimus as the combined leader (of course!), knowing this would draw out Unicron's sleeper agents. This, his ignoring that the Knights wanted to go home (and Circuit-Breaker had gone catatonic at the sight of so many robots), and the fact Xaaron appeared to ''no longer exist'' gave Optimus the creeps. Their god seemed not so interested in the Transformers' actual lives.

As Optimus and Scorponok bonded and prepared to tell Primus where to go, Unicron made his attack {{storylink|The Void! (US)|The Void!}} after shutting himself down to 'drift' to Cybertron without Primus detecting him. The Transformers...

[[File:ohcrapitsunicron!.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.66]]
...ran away in ''absolute terror'' as this gigantic ''THING'' tore into Cybertron. Primus tried to rally them but ''died'', not having the available power to do shit. Eventually it came down to Galvatron—noticed only as an "unknown Decepticon"—to do it, shooting Unicron and inspiring others to start up. The Transformers and Neo-Knights fought bravely, doing damage but taking heavy casualties, and Zarak/Scorponok finally got past his shaky confidence and died in a hero. Reinforcements arrived with the Ark, all its dozens of casualties brought back by Nucleon. The corrupted Matrix joined the battle but, due to its corruption, was blasted; Optimus was able to grab it and, free from doubt, purge the artifact of darkness. Circuit Breaker's sanity was irrevocably ended to give Optimus an opening to use the Matrix, leaving Hi-Q behind as he made a suicide run at the Chaos-Bringer.

In the aftermath, the Demons rose up again {{storylink|On the Edge of Extinction!}} and the Transformers picked through their dead and wounded. The dying Optimus Prime appointed Grimlock as his successor before passing away. (Bludgeon, meanwhile, quietly snuck into the vacant Decepticon leadership.) {{storylink|Still Life!}} Unknown to anyone but himself, Hi-Q's mind is a merged version of him and ''Optimus Prime'': the Powermaster process had been merging them into one being!{{storylink|The Last Autobot?}}

When Grimlock is paralysed, Hi-Q/Optimus is able to accelerate the Dinobot's nucleon transformation and with a new, mightier form, he sends the Demons packing. Unfortunately, he's left unable to transform. {{storylink|Still Life!}} More unfortunately, Cybertron is dying: without Primus's lifeforce, it cannot stay together. Prowl is unable to hold the alliance together (Grimlock doesn't care and Bludgeon wants it to fall) as tensions explode. The Transformers have to evacuate but Bludgeon sabotages the Autobot ships, leaving them to die, and stirs up the fatigued Decepticons with a grand speech and a plan of new conquest! {{storylink|Exodus!}} Luckily, Grimlock had a secret stash of ships and the Autobots are able to pursue the Decepticons. Barely noticed by the Autobots (who think he's kray-kray), OptiHi-Q has revealed his true identity and recruits the ignored Neo-Knights to find a "[[Last Autobot]]", last chance of Cybertron. {{storylink|A Savage Circle}} The search goes badly though, leaving them worried they'll die on a foreign world . {{storylink|The Last Autobot?}}

[[File:Galvatron2vsmegatron.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|"RAAAAAAAA" "RAAAAAAA"]]
Shockwave and Starscream have already stolen the Ark, with Galvatron as a stowaway and Megatron and Ratchet both awaken. After a fight, Megatron and Galvatron decide to team up; the hero Ratchet stops them the only way he can, crashing the Ark into Earth once more. {{storylink|Exodus!}} {{storylink|A Savage Circle}} A raging Galvatron survives and tears through the [[Canada|Canadian]] wilds. A reluctant Spike Witwicky is (half of) the only Autobot on Earth and bonds once more with Fortress Maximus. It goes badly until they make peace and, unified, take down Galvatron II for good. {{storylink|The Last Autobot?}}

[[File:EndOfTheRoad-itcanitis.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.1|You've only been gone four issues!]]
On Cybertron, [[Dynamo]]'s powers manage to lead Hi-Qimus Prime and chums to the slumbering Last Autobot. Elsewhere, with just ''two days'' lead, the Decepticons have completely subjugated [[Klo]] and, as Grimlock is using stolen Decepticon ships, they detect the incoming Autobots . {{storylink|The Last Autobot?}} Bludgeon exploits Grimlock's gung-ho attitude and lures the army into a brutal ambush. Grimlock leads the handful of survivors in a never-say-die last stand but they're saved by the arrival of the Last Autobot... who has not only created a new body for the new Optimus Prime, but is resurrecting the dead Autobots! Bludgeon accepts defeat, promising a voluntary exile (he's lying).

Optimus reveals the Last Autobot had been Primus' safeguard for when the god died: he's used his power to not just save Cybertron, but restore it.

"We can go home!" {{storylink|End of the Road! (US)|End of the Road!}}
{{-}}

===1991-3===
With the war over, the Autobots begin to repair and resurrect many of their dead. Those that had lost their ability to transform were fixed.

Many Autobots, however, grow bored of the peace and form little gangs to go out into space, searching for new conflicts. (Why yes, Grimlock formed one of those gangs!) {{storylink|War Without End!}} Unknown to the Autobots, this peace is just a temporary thing: Bludgeon's army are quietly reorganising and building a horrific battleship called the [[Warworld]]! {{storylink|Primal Fear!}}

Meanwhile, on Earth, Spike Witwicky continues to check up on Fortress Maximus' body now and again. {{storylink|Final Transformations}} He's sadly not around when a half-dead Megatron wakes up... {{storylink|Unfoldings!}}

===1993-94===
[[File:WarWithoutEnd-Firestormers.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4|Anything ''X-Force'' can do, we can do better!]]
Grimlock's militia start running into the [[Cybertronian (faction)|Cybertronian Empire]]'s [[Eco-structuring|cyberforming]] crews: to their horror, they find ''seventeen'' planets have been wiped out and reformatted into little Cybertron's. They're able to save [[Nexus Seven]] through extreme violence and Grimlock puts out a call to Optimus Prime. The Empire's Liege Centuro [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]], however, is hunting for them and Optimus is suffering recurring nightmares of a corpse-strewn wasteland. {{storylink|War Without End!}} Meanwhile, on Earth, Megatron is cutting a deal with Cobra: they give him a [[to sell toys|new body]] and let him 'borrow' weapons designer [[Sidney Biggles-Jones]], and he'll grant them Cybertronian tech. Megatron's involvement is spotted by G.I. Joe and they put out a call to Cybertron; Optimus dispatches a squad to investigate {{storylink|Realignments}} {{storylink|Goin' South}} while he meets Grimlock at a liberated planet.<ref>"Goin' South" and "War Without End!" both show G.I. Joe sending out a call, but the former has Optimus hearing the message (but never doing anything himself) and the latter has it when Optimus is captured. To limit clashes, we're splitting the difference: Optimus heard the message and then went off to "War Without End!". This also means the Earth-based stories are happening at pretty much the same time was "War Without End!"</ref>

[[File:Megatrong2cobra.jpg|left|upright=0.9|thumb|left|From Mud, through Blood, to the Green Paintjob Beyond]]
Unfortunately, Jhiaxus swiftly captures the Autobots. He attempts to 'reason' with Optimus, declaring the Autobot-Decepticon war was a minor squabble that Empire have moved on from, and that they've left behind destruction for construction (except for all the organics they call but organics don't count, right?). The Autobots have none of it and escape, pursued by the Cybertronians; Optimus is left worried that he's still having the nightmares, believing it to be a warning of a new apocalyptic threat on the way. {{storylink|War Without End!}} Simultaneously on Earth, the Autobots under [[Hot Spot (G1)|Hot Spot]] intervene in the Megatron/Cobra/Joe battle and it goes ''horribly wrong'': four dead, the Ark taking off under Megatron's control, and Biggles-Jones captured. {{storylink|Final Transformations}} Hot Spot himself kills himself in an all-or-nothing raid to destroy all of Cobra's Cybertronian parts. Luckily, [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] had been smuggled onto the Ark and finds Spike Witwicky, better late than never, is also onboard and reactivating Fortress Maximus. Only able to hold back Megatron so Skydive and Biggles-Jones can escape, Spike and Maximus make the supreme sacrifice to blow up the Ark (and themselves with it). {{storylink|All or Nothing!}} Megatron will survive though: he rebuilt Starscream and was able to make his escape...

Optimus' small band try to raid an ancient alien weapons cache to use against Jhiaxus, having a fight with Bludgeon's Decepticons who want the same thing; both bands are chased away by a powerful alien guardian. {{storylink|Ghosts}} With that a bust, they try to lose Jhiaxus in the [[K'tord Nebula]] and they do manage it! Though that's because the place is seething with psychic parasites that drive you psychotically insane and everyone has to stop fighting in order to escape. Jhiaxus is left permanently rattled by the incident, as it removed his icy control and reminded him that he was a sadistic butcher. Speaking of sadistic butchers, Bludgeon has finally completed his Warworld and has constructed a 'second generation' of Decepticons: all he needs is the Matrix to activate them. {{storylink|Primal Fear!}}

The Autobots set up a new [[Autobase]] on a remote asteroid and call in reinforcements, but Optimus decides to wait until he deciphers his visions before any action is taken. Grimlock does as Grimlock does and goes AWOL with a strike force to blow up Jhiaxus' flagship: [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] and [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] are killed as a direct result and the Autobots captured. Optimus is able to save them from being deported to "the [[Liege Maximo]]" and, believing Grimlock has learned better, leaves him in charge {{storylink|Devices and Desires! (Marvel)|Devices and Desires!}} while he goes to Cybertron. There, the [[Venerable One]]s help him commune with the Matrix and see visions of the Cybertronian Empire's origin, and the 'budding' process they used to replicate. Optimus ends the vision early and doesn't see the key bit: the replication also created a form of dark energy, the [[Swarm (G2)|Swarm]]. {{storylink|The Power and the Glory}}

[[File:Earth Tales 3 Starscream annoys Seekers.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
Unknown to the Autobots, Bludgeon had decided the best way to lure out Optimus and steal the Matrix is by attacking Earth. The Warworld rains down indiscriminate fire and the Pretender leads a raiding party in sacking the city, and lures out... Megatron and Starscream, wanting Decepticon leadership back! Bludgeon fights back and is killed{{storylink|Devices and Desires! (Marvel)#"Tales of Earth Part One"|Tales Of Earth Part One}} {{storylink|The Power and the Glory#"Tales of Earth Part Two"|Tales of Earth Part Two}}, and insult to injury is that Megatron co-opts his plan. (With an army back, he's thinking Starscream has outlived his usefulness - as is every other Decepticon!) Earth's superpowers are routed and Skydive, working with G.I. Joe, calls out for Autobot aid . {{storylink|The Gathering Darkness#"Tales of Earth Part Three"|Tales Of Earth Part Three}} That aid, however, is just Optimus Prime: to [[Hawk (G.I. Joe)|Hawk]]'s horror, he wants to ''talk'' to Megatron and convince him to unite against the Cybertronian Empire, rather than fight him off. Megatron instead sucker-punches Prime and tears the Matrix from him, and in an ironic role reversal Prime is saved by Grimlock, who disobeyed orders and took an Autobot force down to Earth after all . {{storylink|The Gathering Darkness}}

[[File:Escalation over.jpg|upright=1.4|thumb|left|''For once you must try not to shrink from facts Mankind survives by bestial acts!'']]
Megatron created the new [[Rotor Force]] and [[Laser Rod]] Decepticons and led them in a brutal raid to capture [[rheanimum]]. It was all good times until the Empire butchered a recon team led by Skullgrin and when the Decepticons launched a reprisal attack, they got flattened and Megatron personally near-killed by Jhiaxus. Desperate for revenge, he headed for the Autobots {{storylink|New Dawn}} to accept that team-up offer after all. {{storylink|Escalation!|Tales of Earth, Part Five}} It came in time as Jhiaxus was expanding the Empire's operations, hoping to draw out the Autobots through so much genocide Prime couldn't ignore it. (Starscream took the opportunity to ''mysteriously'' vanish) The first Autobot-Decepticon combined operation took place on [[Ethos]] and to Prime's disquiet, the battle was only won because of the fast, brutal tactics of Megatron's forces. Worse still, Megatron's brand of evil was at least understandable while the Empire showed a total lack of emotion or interest in the damage they did. {{storylink|Escalation!}}

It turned out Prime's visions were about something worse than the Empire: the [[Swarm (G2)|Swarm]], a ravenous cloud-like mass creating by the Cybertronian's "budding" process that tore through worlds and peoples in an attempt to 'complete' itself. The Autobot-Decepticon alliance learned its true nature after analysing the remains of its last meal, [[J'asik]], and resolved to deal with it. Unfortunately, by this point the Swarm had [[Mindset (G2)|eaten its first Imperials]] elsewhere and was now certain it wanted Transformers.

Just as unfortunately, Starscream had shopped them to Jhiaxus and [[Autobase]] Earth came under massed attack. {{storylink|Swarm (issue)|Swarm}} The Cybertronians captured the Warworld but their first wave on Earth was, against all odds, repulsed by their 'ancestors'. Jhiaxus angrily sent in a second wave and ordered all his battalions to head for Earth (thus the Swarm did, after eating [[Battalion Xerxes]]). While Grimlock led the battle in Nevada, Optimus Prime and Megatron departed the battle to retrieve the Matrix from the Warworld... which Starscream had just got his mitts on (''nice one Jhiaxus''), merging himself with it and the Warworld. He wiped out most of the Cybertronian fleet in a display of power and let Prime and Megatron enter {{storylink|Total War!}} so he could have fun torturing them. Jhiaxus flew into a rage when he found out, personally taking command and making it clear he'd gone beyond nuts; his sub-commander [[Rook (G2)|Rook]] departed to report to the Liege Maximo. When Optimus did manage to fight his way through the Warworld—a horrified Starscream realised the Matrix was turning him ''good''—he contacted Jhiaxus, proposing an alliance against the Swarm. {{storylink|Dark Shadows!}}

[[File:Franciscog2.jpg|upright=1.0|thumb]]
Jhiaxus begins bombarding Earth in a display of pique. [[San Francisco]] is wiped out in seconds.

Luckily, the Matrix-corrupted Starscream is influenced to defend Earth from further attack. Unluckily, that's when the Swarm arrives {{storylink|Dark Shadows!#Tales of Earth Part Eight|Tales of Earth Part Eight}} and a brief moment of grace ends when Jhiaxus futilely opens fire. Optimus reclaims the Matrix and heads to Jhiaxus' flagship to assist, while Megatron takes the rheanimum down to Earth where the allied forces are digging in for an expected attack. Defences fail and casualties mount until the rheanimum is used to reinforce their metal. Jhiaxus has completely descended into madness, almost killing Optimus before the Swarm devours him too. Optimus Prime, however, has a plan: he allows the Swarm to devour him and the Matrix with it.

With the essence of Primus inside them, the Swarm are turned into a force for life. They depart Earth, recreating Optimus in a [[to sell toys|new body]], and the victorious Transformers celebrate victory and their new unity. Deep in space, however, the Liege Maximo judges the alliance weak and plots a counterstrike. {{storylink|A Rage in Heaven!}}
{{-}}

===Future events===
Over time, the Transformers would battle [[Mogahn the Mass]] and the [[Ebon Knights]], have a horrific battle at [[Pinea Omicron]], and finally face the Liege Maximo. In the end, the old Autobot-Decepticon war would be replaced with the [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]]. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime}}

{{note|A rather loud shoutout to Furman's unofficial convention story "[[Alignment]]". "Ask Vector Prime" had previously said "Alignment" was definitely canon and then its writer said it wasn't on this wiki. Is it? That's up to you and your [[personal canon]]!}}

===123/9/005<ref>This is the date given in "The Quest!" but what that means in our dating system is not clear</ref>===
Sometime within six [[units of time|gluxins]] after the Autobot-Decepticon war ended, [[Theturis]]an student [[Dicet Alpha-zero]] used [[Transtime Pod|time travel]] to spy on it for a dissertation. (To future Theturis, the war was well documented, relatively recent, and considered "small") He accidentally startled Ultra Magnus at [[Mount Verona]], but was relieved to see events later didn't seem to have been changed by his blunder... not realising he was seeing a different ending to the Time Wars. Minor discrepancies on Theturis made Dicet worry time had been changed in unknown ways. {{storylink|The Quest!}}

==Marvel UK future timelines==
{{note|Events in the Marvel UK future timelines represent '''two''' main alternate futures tied around the [[The Transformers: The Movie|1986 film]].}}

===Original future===
====1986-9====
[[File:Targetmaster-nomore.jpg|thumb]]
Various big events take place, including the rise to prominence of the Decepticon general [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] and the creation of Autobot hero [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]; the war reaching [[Nebulos]]; and the development of the [[binary bonding]] and [[Pretender]] technology.

A smaller scale event is the death of [[Firebolt (G1)|Firebolt]], Hot Rod's Nebulan partner, on Earth. {{storylink|Headhunt}}

====1990====
Megatron was in command of a large number of Decepticons. He undercovered and executed Autobot deep-cover agent [[Warmonger]]. {{storylink|Aspects of Evil!}}

A [[Decepticon Civil War]] - between Megatron, Shockwave and Scorponok - kicks off here. {{storylink|Aspects of Evil!}}

====1991====
[[File:Scorponok hot rod aspects of evil.jpg|thumb|left|upright=0.95]]
The Civil War raged on before ending with Megatron victorious. While Shockwave would be absorbed into Megatron's army, Scorponok was left wounded, alone and hunted; he only survived by forcing the Autobots to intervene against his [[Air Strike Patrol|pursuers]]. {{storylink|Aspects of Evil!}}

====1995====
To improve relations with human feminists, Optimus Prime creates [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]], the first [[Female Transformer]]. It... doesn't work very well. {{storylink|Prime's Rib!}}

====2003====
Plans are drawn up for an [[Autobot City (G1)|Autobot City]] on Earth, funded with help from Earth's governments. Ultra Magnus is commanding the Ark at this point. {{storylink|Ark Duty}}

====2004====
Autobot City is completed. Shockwave attacks the opening ceremony, intending to shatter Autobot-human relations and use this victory to usurp control from Megatron. It fails badly. {{storylink|Aspects of Evil!}}

====2006====
By this point, the Decepticons rule Cybertron; the Autobots reside in moon bases and Autobot City . Time travel technology is possessed by both factions. Earth has weather control systems.

Megatron starts the [[Battle of Autobot City]]. As a result, Optimus Prime is killed and Ultra Magnus becomes the new [[Supreme Commander|Autobot Commander]]; the monstrous Unicron turns up, reformatting a dying Megatron into [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]]. {{storylink|The Transformers: The Movie}}

Deciding he doesn't want to work for Unicron, Galvatron, Cyclonus and Scourge time-travel back to 1986 inadvertently creating a new parallel timeline. Unicron mentally steers Hot Rod, Kup and Blurr to bring him back, and tortures Galvatron back into obedience when they have. {{storylink|Target: 2006}}

Unicron attacks Cybertron. Hot Rod opens the Matrix and becomes Rodimus Prime, who hurls Galvatron into space, destroys Unicron, and leads the Autobots in reclaiming Cybertron. {{storylink|The Transformers: The Movie}} Shockwave takes command of the shattered Decepticons, while Galvatron is missing (he crosstime-jumped to 1986 at the moment of defeat). Rodimus, concerned about Galvatron, sends the Autobots searching across space to find the guy. {{storylink|Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive!}}

Unicron's severed head goes on to crash on [[Junkion (planet)|Junk]], where he mind-controls the [[Junkion (species)|Junkions]] into building him a new body... {{storylink|The Legacy of Unicron!}}

====2007====
[[File:Rodimusprimerequestdenied.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|Justice comes at a price. That price is freedom of the rights of all sentient beings.]]
With the Autobot army stretched, Shockwave was able to re-organise the Decepticon army and retake half of Cybertron. Stalemate ensured; Rodimus, out of desperation, puts a dead-or-alive bounty on Galvatron's head, something that backfires when it causes [[Death's Head (G1)|Death's Head]] to crosstime-jump to 1987 looking for the bounty. {{storylink|Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive!}} Rodimus, Kup, Blurr and (accidentally) Wreck-Gar went after him {{storylink|Burning Sky!}} and brought him back, but failed to secure Galvatron.

Shockwave, wanting to cement his power, set it up so Death's Head would kill Rodimus, Cyclonus and Scourge. All three lived, but the latter two would be fleeing Death's Head for the rest of the year. {{storylink|Headhunt}}

====2008====
[[File:LegacyofUnicron-Unicron.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.2]]
Death's Head catches up with Cyclonus and Scourge on Junk in the New Year, but all three end up mentally enslaved by Unicron. He has them kill Shockwave and send the ''entire'' Decepticon army at the Autobots, a pointless battle that'll decimate both sides in advance of his arrival. Rodimus, however, has been alerted of Unicron's presence, and leads a strike-team to stop him. Thanks to Rodimus, Wreck-Gar, and Death's Head, Unicron's head is destroyed and his mind trapped in the Matrix, while Scourge and Cyclonus end up sent back in time. Soundwave takes command of the Decepticons and ends the battle. {{storylink|The Legacy of Unicron!}}

A [[Time Wars|time rift]] appears in 2008, causing the destruction of the [[Quintesson]] homeworld. They investigate many mechanical planets for emergency colonisation, eventually settling on Cybertron; Wreck-Gar comes into possession of these plans. The Quintessons launch a devastating attack on Autobot City on Earth, drawing out Rodimus so they can steal the Matrix; simultaneously, they trick the Decepticons on Cybertron into heading into an ambush. The Earth forces are slaughtered by [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] and the Cybertron force undone by Soundwave calling in the Autobots to help. Wreck-Gar broadcasts the Quintessons plans to ''every'' planet on their list, forewarning them and ensuring the surviving Quintessons will be hunted fugitives. {{storylink|Space Pirates!}}

The rift gets worse, now threatening Earth and Cybertron. {{storylink|Time Wars}}

====2009====
On New Year's Day, the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] attack Earth with the intention of draining its energy before it was destroyed; the Autobots wrecked that plan. The Autobots also became aware that the source of the time rift was 1989, and a small team was sent back to that year to end the crisis. {{storylink|Time Wars}}

===Post-Time Wars future===
====1989====
Megatron - well, his [[Straxus (G1)|Straxus]] clone - seizes control of a large number of Decepticons. Knowing he will become Galvatron, he decides to work more patiently. {{storylink|The Fall and Rise of the Decepticon Empire.}}

A [[Decepticon Civil War]] - between Megatron, Shockwave and Scorponok - kicks off, with all factions having an Earth-bound presence. Megatron is actively working with his future-as-Galvatron in mind. {{storylink|Trigger-Happy!}}

[[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] does something to bring the Dinobots back from the dead at some point.

====1992====
[[File:Snarl corriodia gravis destiny of the dinobots.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|"Still, could be worse, you could be stuck forever in that Stegosaurus form you hate so much, eh Snarl?"]]
Snarl has contracted the wasting disease [[Corrodia Gravis]] at some point. The Dinobots head for the Savage Land, where (due to no other option) they have to transfer Snarl's mind into a real Stegosaurus. {{storylink|Destiny of the Dinobots!}}

{{note|At a pinch, this story also could fit in the later Earthforce run. As it was written before then and was set in "the future", we're placing it with the other future stories here but other wiki pages place it with Earthforce. [[Personal canon]]!}}

====2006====
Megatron starts the [[Battle of Autobot City]]. As a result, Optimus Prime is killed and Ultra Magnus becomes the new [[Supreme Commander|Autobot Commander]]; the monstrous Unicron turns up, reformatting a dying Megatron into [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]]. {{storylink|The Transformers: The Movie}}

''This'' time, Galvatron ''doesn't'' go back in time but sticks around to remain being Decepticon Commander after Unicron's destruction. He leads a conquest of Cybertron. {{storylink|Aspects of Evil!}}

====2009====
Rodimus Prime and his team return home from the [[Time Wars]] to find the present day for them is altered. Galvatron has conquered Cybertron. {{storylink|Aspects of Evil!}}.
They either join or establish a resistance group on Cybertron, which is quickly defeated; Galvatron uses Rodimus's rage to give the Matrix-trapped Unicron an opening. {{storylink|Aspects of Evil!}} The Autobot forces — numbering 430 — flee Cybertron to the stronghold of [[Autobot City (G1)|Autobot City]] on Earth, with a goodwill gesture of Energon. {{storylink|The Void! (UK)|The Void!}} {{storylink|Edge of Impact}}

====2010<ref>The strip set the story in 2009 but this was corrected in #258's letters page</ref>====

[[File:EdgeofImpact-EvilRodimus.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4|''I've got your Touch RIGHT HERE!'']]

On New Year's Day, as the Autobots are in transit to Earth, Unicron uses the Matrix to possess Rodimus's body. The possessed Rodimus first sabotages the ship and then tries to kill all the Autobots; reinforcements are called in from Autobot City but it's clear they can't stop him without killing Prime. Luckily, Prime is able to defeat Unicron within the Matrix, but Kup, thinking he's helping, rips the Matrix out of Rodimus Prime's body before he can exorcise it. This means another fight, against a prepared Unicron, will be needed. {{storylink|The Void! (UK)|The Void!}} {{storylink|Edge of Impact}} {{storylink|Shadow of Evil}} {{storylink|White Fire}}

It goes poorly and Unicron possesses Rodimus again later in the year. This time he recreates his old body and tears through Cybertron (burying Galvatron and possibly killing him) before being sucked back into the Matrix. As Autobots arrive, Rodimus screams at them that it's not safe to approach him. {{storylink|Aspects of Evil!}}

{{-}}

====2356====
[[File:Aspects of Evil sickly Prime.jpg|thumb|upright=1.5|"I remember when this was all coloured in, lad.]]
The war is over, but Rodimus and the Matrix still contain Unicron. Rodimus has physically decayed and is kept in a medbay in Autobot City. Rodimus is visited by a [[Trachis|student]], whom Unicron's presence is able to corrupt towards evil; Prime realises the Chaos-Bringer is making another bid for freedom. {{storylink|Aspects of Evil!}}

{{note|This story was never resolved, so tens of thousands of kiddies last saw the hero Rodimus infected and dying due to possession by SATAN, who is WINNING. Bloody hell, [[Simon Furman]]!}}
{{-}}

==Big Broadcast future==
===2006===
The Autobots, under the command of [[Hot Rod/Marvel Comics continuity|Rodimus Prime]] have made their base on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] and formed an alliance with the Junkions. The Decepticons are now under the leadership of [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] have a base on [[Chaar]]. The Quintessons, enemies of both sides, attempt to brainwash the Junkions in order to retrieve a lost artifact. {{storylink|The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|The Big Broadcast of 2006 (US)}}

In a bizarre cosmic coincidence, the Wreck-Gar of a different timeline had to lie about events and somehow invented ''the very events from [[Primax 488.0 Gamma|this]] future!'' {{storylink|The Big Broadcast of 2006 (issue)|UK reprints}}{{storylink|Ask Vector Prime}}

{{note|This story was filler in the US, adapting a cartoon story with no real connection to the comic story. Since it contradicted UK stories, they added a framing story that Wreck-Gar had made the whole thing up. In 2015, "Ask Vector Prime" placed this in its own special universe}}

==Earthforce timeline==
{{note|These weren't intentionally meant to be an alternate timeline but rapidly became irreconcilable with the US strips; Furman's admitted to not trying to make it work<ref name="fumint2">"...because (if I’m brutally honest) I didn't try too hard to make it work in the first place. By that point, I was just trying to tell a bunch of fun UK stories that didn’t necessarily impact on the larger (US) storyline. How was I to know 15 or so years later people would be trying to reconcile it all?" [http://transfans.co.uk/interviews_furman.php TransFans.net - Interviews: Simon Furman - Part 1 'The Past'].</ref> due to how difficult tying the UK/US strips together was at the time.}}
===1989 and early 1990===
[[File:Grimlock prime ark crew break-away.jpg|upright=1.6|thumb]]
Just like in the main timeline, Catilla was killed by the Mayhem Attack Squad; the Classic Pretenders are brought back; [[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] used [[Nucleon]] to bring the Dinobots back from the dead; Shockwave is forming a splinter faction; and, unfortunately, [[the Primal Scream]] alerts Unicron to Cybertron's whereabouts and he summons Galvatron II to this timeline.

The big difference is Megatron is not in dimensional space, instead having slinked off to Earth in secret to form a Decepticon splinter faction. {{storylink|Starting Over!}} Scorponok, meanwhile, leaves the planet with his forces;<ref>Not explicitly said but he's definitely not there in any stories</ref> [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] is kicked out for an attempted coup. {{storylink|The Living Nightlights!}} The Constructicons have somehow lost the ability to combine. {{storylink|Desert Island Risks!}}

[[Vector Prime|Some dude on Facebook]] even thinks things had been different since Cyclonus got killed! {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime}}

===1990===
[[File:PerchanceToDream2.jpg|upright=1.9|thumb|left]]
The Ark is deserted for reasons unknown; Galvatron II<ref>He just says he's a "different Galvatron" to the one in the Time Wars in the original strip, but the [[Titan Books]] trade of ''Dinobot Hunt'' calls him Galvatron II</ref> breaks in to find a number of Underbase-killed Autobots that he can rejuvenate and turn evil. [[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]], [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]], [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]], Wheeljack, and [[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] are awakened, and go on to take him down. {{storylink|...Perchance to Dream}}

Prowl and Wheeljack both start feeling their age, as the Transformer arms race wearies them. {{storylink|Starting Over!}} Optimus, meanwhile, is focusing more and more on the threat of Unicron, considering this takes priority over Earth . {{storylink|Break-Away!}} [[Skydive (G1 Aerialbot)|Skydive]] is somehow brought back too.

[[File:Earthforce.jpg|upright=1.0|thumb]]
Shockwave attempts but fails to force Grimlock to reveal how he brought the Dinobots back, hoping to bring back deceased Decepticons. A disagreement between Optimus and Grimlock {{storylink|Two Steps Back!}} cause Grimlock to threaten to leave the Autobots on the 24th March,<ref>"The time: NOW."</ref> believing Optimus is not doing enough for Earth. It's decided to put Grimlock in charge of a separate [[Earthforce]] (numbering the revived Autobots, the Dinobots, and the Classic Pretenders) to handle the Decepticons here. {{storylink|Break-Away!}} Meanwhile, Megatron attempts to deploy a satellite that will alter Earth's temperature, but Prowl and Wheeljack intervene{{storylink|Starting Over!}}, calling for back-up from the other Autobots. {{storylink|Break-Away!}} After an initial pep talk to his new troops, one not-so-subtly designed to encourage them to chuck out the [[Autobot Code]], Grimlock orders them into battle. {{storylink|Once upon a Time...}}

Prowl is missing presumed dead after personally trying to bring the satellite down. {{storylink|Life in the Slow Lane}} Bumblebee and Ironhide, while looking for him, destroy the Decepticon's new [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]. {{storylink|Desert Island Risks!}} The Autobots ''and'' Megatron and Shockwave's two Decepticon groups eventually find the satellite, and the Decepticons turn on each other; Prowl, alive, has in fact disarmed the satellite ages ago though. {{storylink|Life in the Slow Lane}} Prowl goes on to become Grimlock's second-in-command.

At some point, Wheeljack sets up a [[Body Shop]] based around an [[Automated Construction Unit]]: a top-of-the-line facility for repairing Autobots. {{storylink|Makin' Tracks!}} The other Aerialbots will be among those brought back online. {{storylink|The House that Wheeljack Built!}}

[[File:Snow Fun final panel.jpg|upright=1.0|thumb|left]]
Big important issue! The Dinobots inflict [[April Fools' Day]] on Grimlock! (While Shockwave's Decepticons fail to find the Autobot base.) {{storylink|Snow Fun!}} Prowl prevents Megatron from bolstering his forces by using [[time travel]] to alter the events of the Underbase battle. {{storylink|Flashback!}} And then Wheeljack and Skydive act really dumb. {{storylink|Mystery!}}

With a [[Decepticon Civil War]] about to break out and Earthforce holding a strategic advantage, the rival factions call an [[Enclave]] to stop the struggle, but the Autobots sabotage it by faking that Shockwave tried to kill Megatron. {{storylink|The Bad Guy's Ball!}} The Decepticon Mindwipe, gone rogue from Scorponok's crew, is prevented from conquering the Earth by two Earthforce members. {{storylink|The Living Nightlights!}}

[[File:Cry Wolf Needlenose.jpg|thumb|upright=1.9]]
Carnivac gets brutal revenge on the Mayhem Attack Squad for killing Catilla, taking down three of them. The [[Survivors]], trying to rescue Carnivac, unify with Earthforce in return for aid; as a result, [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]], [[Octopunch (G1)|Octopunch]], and [[Stranglehold]] are taken prisoner. {{storylink|Cry Wolf!}} {{storylink|Wolf in the Fold!}} {{storylink|Where Wolf?}}

Meanwhile, Soundwave is playing both sides of the civil war against each other, and frames Wildrider for it so as to avoid detection. {{storylink|Secrets (G1)|Secrets}} Starscream finds out and uses that to get Soundwave to help him in a master plan: get both Shockwave and Megatron to fight each other and sic Earthforce on them, then seize command of the two Decepticon factions themselves, and unite them. (Both, of course, plan to backstab the other and seize sole command) {{storylink|Bugged!}} {{storylink|Internal Affairs!}} The Autobots complete their new base, but are forced to deactivate its security system {{storylink|The House that Wheeljack Built!}}, at which point the full Decepticon army attacks. Starscream carries out the second objective of seizing an [[oil tanker]] while the Autobots are occupied, but Prowl had the Survivors out on patrol and Starscream is driven off. Soundwave uses the defeat to rally support for him being sole commander. {{storylink|Divide and Conquer!}}

[[File:MarvelUK-280-4MYItch-ObservationusPrime.jpg|left|upright=1.66|thumb]]
Optimus Prime inspects Earthforce, unfortunately at the same time Slag has gone insane; the Dinobots barely cover it up. {{storylink|The 4,000,000 Year Itch!}} During Prime's stay, he oversees the rebuilding of Tracks, not knowing Grimlock is desperately trying to keep him from being rebuilt; of course, Grimlock fails and Tracks is placed under his command. {{storylink|Makin' Tracks!}} The remaining Mayhems escape from their cells. {{storylink|Shut Up!}} Jazz takes action to stop Octane endangering humans for fun. {{storylink|Manoeuvres!}}

Megatron and Shockwave try to regain control of their armies by putting hits out on Starscream and Shockwave. Their attempt is defeated by Earthforce, who are forced to keep Starscream alive after Snarl contracts [[Corrodia Gravis]] and only the Seeker is a suitable transplant donor. Starscream agrees to donate, but only if Earthforce keep Megatron and Shockwave off his back. {{storylink|Assassins}} {{storylink|External Forces!}} {{storylink|The Lesser Evil!}}

Soon after that, the Decepticons take control of Superion and send him on a rampage; he's only stopped thanks to human journalist [[Irwin Spoon (G1)|Irwin Spoon]]. {{storylink|Inside Story!}} In exchange, the Autobots let Irwin do a big report on the Earthforce. In order to prevent the Autobots being seen as human allies, the Decepticons abduct Iriwn {{storylink|Front Line! (issue)|Front Line!}}; the Autobots rescue him, but don't realise Irwin has had a cerebro-shell planted in his mind and will now only write smears about them. {{storylink|End of the Road! (UK)|End of the Road!}}

[[File:Magnificent Six the end.jpg|upright=1.4|thumb]]
With the Matrix irrecoverable and alliance impossible, Optimus sends six of the Earthforce - Prowl, Jazz, Sunstreaker, Wheeljack, Inferno, and Siverbolt - to [[Yuss]] to locate the former Underbase site, hoping to use it as a weapon as a last-ditch defence against Unicron. There, they came into conflict with the mad Decepticon known as [[Megadeath (G1)|Megadeath]], who tortured and humiliated all bar Silverbolt in times past. Facing up to personal demons, they defeated him and continue on to the Underbase site. {{storylink|The Magnificent Six!}}
{{-}}

==Rhythms of Darkness timeline==
===2006===
[[File:Nyc-alternate-future1.jpg|upright=1.5|thumb]]
Megatron starts the [[Battle of Autobot City]]. As a result, Optimus Prime is killed and Ultra Magnus becomes the new [[Supreme Commander|Autobot Commander]]; the monstrous Unicron turns up, reformatting a dying Megatron into [[Galvatron II|Galvatron]]. {{storylink|The Transformers: The Movie}}

Hot Rod gains the Matrix and becomes Rodimus Prime, but not in time to stop Unicron from devouring Cybertron. Unicron grants Galvatron freedom to command the Decepticons and conquer Earth. {{storylink|Rhythms of Darkness!}} Unknown to anyone, Primus' essence has now been scattered among his surviving children: no longer amoral because of the lack of Primal essence, the Cybertronian Empire undergo a reformation. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime}}
{{-}}

===2009===
[[File:GalvatrondeadrodimusUS67.jpg|left|upright=1.6|thumb]]
By this point, the Americas are under Decepticon control and much of them have been wiped out; the Autobots are mostly extinct, reduced to a mere handful, and Rodimus is dead. The European Crisis Coalition almost launch a nuclear assault (not realising the Decepticons will absorb the resulting energy) but the American human-Autobot resistance make a defiant public gesture, getting the attack called off. Galvatron is abducted by [[Hook, Line, and Sinker|three unknown figures]]. {{storylink|Rhythms of Darkness!}} Inspired, humanity and the last three Autobots began a long uprising against the Decepticons.

{{note|And that's where it ended until 2015, when we were told...}}

===2010 onwards===
Earth goes on to liberate Decepticon-held planets, starting with Nebulos, and forms the [[Confederation of Terran Worlds]]. The surviving Autobots become the Trio, an advisory body.

Unicron discovers the Cybertronian Empire and attempts to destroy it. The Empire strikes back and, remembering the prophecy that the enemy can be beaten [['Til all are one|when all are one]], send envoys to the Trio on Earth and the Decepticon prisoners in Styx. Together, the Transformers sacrifice many of their number to destroy Unicron's physical form and the Liege Maximo sacrifices himself to defeat the monster on the astral plane. The Cybertronian Empire and Confederation of Terran Worlds become staunch allies. {{storylink|Ask Vector Prime}}

==Another Time and Place==
{{note|This story spins off from the original US/UK run, before Generation 2 starts - as Furman wouldn't have known he'd be coming back in two years!}}

===1991===
The Autobots began to recreate society on the rebuilt Cybertron. Unfortunately, [[Action Master|the majority of those brought back by nucleon lost their ability to transform]]; all the sufferers, including Optimus, felt emasculated. Grimlock, ashamed, went into hiding. Eventually he heard that there may be a cure on Hydrus Four but Optimus forbid him to go in case the Decepticons followed him, learning how to resurrect their own dead. The Dinobots went anyway and were swiftly captured by Decepticons. Optimus, terrified of the war breaking out again, initially ignored the situation for fear of renewed hostilities.

Bludgeon's plan on Hydrus Four was to resurrect Megatron and he came quite close, but Optimus had snapped out of his funk and joined an assault team that rescued the Dinobots. Bludgeon and zombie-Megatron were killed, a nucleon cure was found, and the war was now quite officially over. {{storylink|Another Time & Place}}

===Many years later===
On peacetime Cybertron, Optimus is alerted to the existence of a new, more powerful generation of Decepticons. The war is about to break out again... {{storylink|Another Time & Place}}

==Peace<ref>[[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]] implies this is an alternate timeline in [http://transfans.co.uk/media/2KX/media/comics/the_transformers_uk/dreadtidings/Issue212.jpg #212's letters page], in continuity with "Aspects of Evil!" in [http://transfans.co.uk/media/2KX/media/comics/the_transformers_uk/dreadtidings/Issue236.jpg #236's letters page], and that it's "just a story about the stupidity of war" in [http://transfans.co.uk/media/2KX/media/comics/the_transformers_uk/dreadtidings/Issue264.jpg #264's letters page].</ref>==
====2510====
[[File:Peace THE END.jpg|thumb|upright=1.9|It never ends.]]
The war continues into the early 26th Century, when the penultimate Decepticon is finally killed. A fatigued Rodimus Prime is in charge of a much reduced Autobot force (only the Wreckers, Ultra Magnus, Blurr, and the Technobots are in evidence). When Prime tries to stand down, [[Triton|a Decepticon double agent]] sparks off all the underlying tensions & friction among the Autobots and Rodimus breaks down as the Autobot civil war begins. {{storylink|Peace}}
{{-}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{stub}}

[[Category:Chronologies]]
[[Category:Generation 1 history]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics continuity| Marvel Comics timeline]]

Roadbuster (G1)

2016-03-21T04:43:51Z

YoungDoctor: /* Milton Bradley mini-comic */

{{factions|autobot|wreckers}}
{{disambig3|Roadbuster}}
:''Roadbuster is an [[Autobot]] [[Deluxe Vehicle]] from the [[Generation 1 continuity family|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[File:G1Roadbuster MTMTE.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|[[Susan Hoffman#Assistants|Who ya gonna call?]]]]
'''Roadbuster''' is a powerful and charismatic fighter. Usually armed to the teeth, he's an inspiration to other Autobots in combat and a natural leader on any battlefield. Outside of combat though, his natural ease and surety fail him. He simply doesn't know how to handle life out of combat. He becomes the quietest of the Autobots, grows withdrawn and depressed, and is easily bored. He counters this by spending most of his free time between battles either planning for the next one or "demolishing" any random [[Decepticon]]s he can find. Some Autobots worry about what will become of the heroic and well-loved Roadbuster they know if the war ever ends. Combat truly is his life and without it, he might just fade away.

Roadbuster is a member of the elite [[Wrecker]]s unit in, well, every universe he's been in.

{{bigquote|Know what you call thirty enemy combatants on the wrong side of an atmos-field? A good start.|Roadbuster|"[[The War to End All Wars, Part 4]]"}}

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comics====
[[File:Target 2006 Whirl Roadbuster Do It.jpg|left|upright=1.4|thumb|I love this plan! I'm excited to be a part of it!]]
Roadbuster was a member of the elite Wreckers unit under the command of [[Impactor (G1)|Impactor]]. Alongside [[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]], he accompanied his commander as Impactor argued with [[Xaaron]] over [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]' trip to [[Earth]] to investigate the disappearance of [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]].

Roadbuster was a rather hardened soldier, deliberately feeding false information to an Autobot who had turned [[Autobot traitor|informant]] for the Decepticons, and stood by in the shadows while [[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]] tortured the Autobot for the info and then executed him. Despite allowing this to happen, he still felt that even a traitor deserved better than that. Roadbuster took part in a training session with the rest of the Wreckers involving [[facsimile construct]]. The training session was in anticipation of [[Operation: Volcano]], an effort to assassinate some of the Decepticons' deadliest warriors. When Impactor decided that the Wreckers were going to bow out of Operation: Volcano, Roadbuster, Whirl, and [[Twin Twist]] took some down-time at [[Maccadam's Old Oil House]]. Both Twin Twist and Roadbuster felt distinctly uneasy about Impactor's decision. When a Decepticon by the name of [[Fang]] started bullying [[Tusks|one of the bar's patrons]], Roadbuster urged Twin Twist not to get involved. But Twin Twist trashed Fang anyway, coming to the realization that as Autobots, it was always their duty to stand in the Decepticons' way. Casting their doubts aside, Roadbuster, Whirl, and Twin Twist all decided to go ahead with Operation: Volcano. Likewise, Impactor was convinced by [[Emirate]] [[Xaaron]] to go through with the mission, despite his earlier doubts. Unfortunately, Volcano was a bust, leaving Impactor dead and [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] the new leader of the Wreckers. {{storylink|Target: 2006}}

[[File:RoadbusterdeathTimeWars.jpg|upright=1.1|thumb|Try to imagine all life as you know it stopping instantaneously and every molecule in your body exploding at the speed of light.]]
Roadbuster was absent from the Wreckers for a while, but returned to take part in the so-called Time Wars. The Wreckers were forced to temporarily ally with the [[Mayhem Attack Squad]] in order to combat the combined threat of [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] and [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]]. The mission to eliminate the two powerful Decepticon leaders was a complete disaster, with most of the Wreckers and Mayhems meeting violent ends. For Roadbuster's part, he managed to blow off a chunk of Galvatron's face with an experimental Decepticon [[Pathblaster]] weapon. However, as Roadbuster took the time to celebrate his shot, the weapon's power core exploded, killing him. {{storylink|Time Wars}}

=====Marvel UK future timelines=====
[[File:ScattershotKillsRoadBusterUkAnnual88.jpg|left|upright=1.1|thumb|Shorten your stream! I don't want my face burned off!]]
In the year [[2510]], Roadbuster joined the Wreckers on Cybertron's northern front where they finally exterminated the last Decepticon outpost, bringing the war to an end. Later on, [[Hot Rod/Marvel Comics continuity|Rodimus Prime]] called an official end to the war effort and announced his plans to pass the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]] on to Springer. The Decepticons were not totally gone, however—a deep cover agent named [[Triton]] lived on inside the Autobot ranks. In order to stir up discord, Triton challenged Prime's decision, declaring that [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] was a better choice to carry the Matrix. Whirl manhandled the little creep to make him pipe down, but Triton punched the Wrecker to the ground. Roadbuster raised his gun in anger, but it was the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobot]] [[Scattershot (G1)|Scattershot]] who fired first in defense of Triton and Magnus's reputation, blowing up Roadbuster's head. This disastrous turn of events led to a new Autobot Civil War between the forces of Ultra Magnus and Springer. {{storylink|Peace}}
{{-}}

{{charstubfiction|{{storylink|...The Harder They Die!}} {{storylink|Under Fire!}} {{storylink|Distant Thunder!}} {{storylink|Resurrection!}} {{storylink|Legion of the Lost!}}}}

====''Regeneration One''====
{{noterg1}}
[[File:Wreckers loose ends.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|We're exterminators. Someone saw a [[Insecticon (G1)|cockroach]] up on twelve.]]
Roadbuster was a member of the Wreckers, under the command of [[Kup (G1)|Kup]]. Acting against [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]]'s explicit orders, they successfully brought a siege in the [[Pax Cybertronia Decommissioning Depot]] in [[Kalis]] to an end by trapping [[Venom (G1)|Venom]], [[Chop Shop (G1)|Chop Shop]] and [[Ransack (G1)|Ransack]] inside a [[detention-sphere]]. Soon afterwards, Kup led the Wreckers away from Cybertron to visit the other planets touched by the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]] and they hitched a ride with [[Berko]]'s [[Cosmic Carnival]] to Earth. However Roadbuster and the Wreckers found the major cities of Earth had been devastated by Megatron, who promptly launched nuclear warheads at their shuttle, destroying it. {{storylink|Loose Ends, Part 1}}

Having managed to travel to Earth in the escape pods before the detonation of their shuttle, Roadbuster and the Wreckers made for the [[Deep Space Network]] in [[Goldstone]] to try and send a warning back to Cybertron. When they discovered that they were being pursued by the [[zombie]] army that Megatron had forged from the Decepticon victims of the [[Underbase Saga]], Springer ordered [[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]], Roadbuster and [[Leadfoot (G2)|Leadfoot]] to run interference and draw the zombies away from the rest of the team. {{storylink|Loose Ends, Part 2}}

While a distress call was successfully sent to Cybertron, Kup was captured by Megatron's forces and the remaining Wreckers found themselves confronting a vengeful [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Circuit Smasher]]. The super-powered human formerly known as Spike Witwicky was eventually talked down, and Roadbuster and the others were invited to [[Argus Base]], the headquarters of the human resistance. There, a plan was hatched to both rescue Kup and attack the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]]—the core of Megatron's power base. {{storylink|Loose Ends, Part 3}}

[[File:Roadbuster CircuitSmasher LooseEnds4.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.45|Everything you are doing is bad. I want you to know this.]]
Roadbuster was put in command of the group that ventured into the [[Yukon]] to reach the Ark. He devised an attack plan to breach the outer perimeters of defense, assigning roles to the Wreckers and humans. Circuit Smasher took a moment to make sure he and Roadbuster saw eye-to-eye on the subject of the Ark, and after a tense pause, Roadbuster agreed that there'd be no attempts to salvage the ship for their own purposes. The attack began, and the group found themselves facing landmines and [[autogun]]s in their path. Eventually, Roadbuster and the rest made it through to the Ark itself, which released [[Guardian (Marvel)|Guardian]] units to bar the way. {{storylink|Loose Ends, Part 4}}

After engaging the Guardians, Circuit Smasher quickly noticed they weren't registering him as a threat. Roadbuster told him to exploit the advantage and get inside the Ark, while the rest held the Guardians off. Once inside, Circuit Smasher managed to disable the Ark's computer [[Aunty|Auntie]], putting a halt to both the Guardian units and Megatron's plans. {{storylink|Loose Ends, Part 5}} Along with [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]], Roadbuster later kept watch over the secured Ark. {{storylink|Natural Selection, Part One}}

Upon returning to Cybertron, Roadbuster worked crowd control as [[Hot Rod/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] gave a speech in [[Eugenesis Plaza]]. When a riot was incited, Roadbuster and the other Autobots engaged in some fisticuffs with the unruly mob. {{storylink|Destiny, Part One}} Later, when a group of agitated citizens set up a highway blockade, the Wreckers confronted the protestors. Roadbuster disapproved of Kup's hostile approach to the situation and opined that Springer wouldn't have handled things this way. Before Roadbuster and Kup could argue any further, the situation devolved into a brawl between the protestors and other irate citizens who wanted through the blockade. {{storylink|Destiny, Part Two}} Roadbuster participated in a raid on [[Fort Scyk]] with the other Wreckers, seeking to take down [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]]'s cell of Decepticon insurgents. However, it turned out to be a trap and the Wreckers barely survived after Fort Scyk exploded with them in it. {{storylink|Destiny, Part Three}}

During [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]'s massive attack on Cybertron, Roadbuster infiltrated the [[Warworld]] with the other Wreckers, seeking to disable it from within. They were confronted by Bludgeon himself, who dominated them in combat and cost Roadbuster an arm. In the end, Bludgeon was defeated by the newly arrived [[Hot Rod/Marvel Comics continuity|Rodimus Prime]], and the Wreckers managed to escape before the Warworld was destroyed. {{storylink|Destiny, Part Five}}

[[File:Roadbuster atmosfield RegenOne99.jpg|thumb|upright=1|It's ''Milla'' Time!]]
The Wreckers were among the Autobot space fleet when Rodimus Prime ordered an attack on the [[Hub (G2)|Hub Network]] created by [[Jhiaxus (G2)|Jhiaxus]]. {{storylink|The War to End All Wars, Part 3}} Ordered to "go dark" by Kup after Jhiaxus' forces began decimating the Autobots, Roadbuster and the others undertook a sabotage mission within the "[[slam rail]]" transit system that linked the network. Severing worlds from the network with targeted nuclear explosions and eliminating any resistance in their path, the Wreckers provided enough of a distraction for the other Autobots to escape as [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|other]] [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|factors]] in play led to the destruction of the Hub and Jhiaxus. {{storylink|The War to End All Wars, Part 4}}

Returning to Cybertron to find it transformed into a barren wasteland populated by [[shadow-leech]]es, the Autobots had to combat the dark entity formed from the corruption of the [[Matrix of Leadership|Creation Matrix]]. For his part, Roadbuster was among a group that journeyed back to Earth through a [[space bridge]] portal to ascertain the creature's designs on the planet. They encountered [[Linda Chang]] and the remaining human resistance, who initially fired upon the Autobots. Having fought beside these humans before, Roadbuster managed to calm things down and the two groups compared notes. With the humans joining them, Roadbuster's group then journeyed to [[Nebulos]], where they were forced to put down the Matrix-corrupted [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]]. After Rodimus was forced to sever their connection with [[Primus]], Roadbuster, along with all other Transformers, became decidedly mortal and eventually died of old age. {{storylink|The War to End All Wars, Part 5}}

===Marvel Storybooks continuity===
Roadbuster was stationed on [[Earth]]. The Autobots initially failed to stop a new plan of Megatron's to take millions of people hostage, but came back to fight again once they were repaired. Roadbuster blasted a hole in the Decepticons' fortress wall so the Autobots could get inside. {{storylink|Battle for Earth}}

===Milton Bradley mini-comic===
Road Buster was among the Autobots under [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]]'s command who launched in the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] to clear a path through an asteroid belt. When the Decepticons attacked the ship, [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] sent it crashing into [[Earth]], knocking everyone aboard offline. Four million years later, they were repaired when the ship's systems were reactivated by a volcanic eruption. {{storylink|In the Transformers}}

===Dreamwave ''Generation One'' continuity===
[[File:War and Peace 4 RoadbusterWhirl.jpg|left|upright=1.4|thumb|Kitten, what I think I'm saying is, sometimes, slag happens, somebody's gotta deal with it, and who ya gonna call?]]
When [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and Megatron went missing in a [[space bridge]] accident, Roadbuster was part of an elite force of Autobots known as the Wreckers who broke off as an independent faction, led by Springer. Much of their efforts were concentrated on keeping [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]]'s [[Ultracon]]s contained inside [[Polyhex]] and away from the [[Tagan Heights]], an area which contributed to a full 40% of Cybertron's manufacturing potential. They ran into more than a few [[Devastator (G1)|difficulties]] with that defense protocol. {{storylink|Transformers: War Within: The Dark Ages|War Within: The Dark Ages}}

Much later Roadbuster, critically low on energy, was ambushed by a group of Decepticon [[Micromaster]]s and defeated by them. A group of Autobot Micromasters led by [[Big Daddy (G1)|Big Daddy]] intervened and managed to pull Roadbuster's inert chassis out of there, sparing him the indignity of having what little [[Energon]] that remained in his system drained. {{storylink|Destined for Nothing|Destined For Nothing}}

During [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]'s rule of Cybertron, Roadbuster was a member of the new Wreckers, a small unit of Autobots under Ultra Magnus's command, dedicated to keeping the peace wherever (and however) necessary. When [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] released the [[Stunticon (G1)|Stunticons]] from their imprisonment in Cybertron's [[Detention Banks]], the Wreckers were sent in to deal with the escapees. Unfortunately, both Roadbuster and [[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]] were crushed before Magnus brought the Stunticon combined form, [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]], down. {{storylink|Passive Aggression}}
{{-}}
{{charstubfiction|{{storylink|Escalation}} {{storylink|Devastation}} {{storylink|The Age of Wrath Pt.2}} {{storylink|Cold War (issue)|Cold War}}}}

===IDW Generation 1 continuity===
Before the war, Roadbuster was a member of the [[Kaon (polity)|Kaon]] security services. {{storylink|Megatron Origin issue 2|Megatron Origin #2}} After the war started, Roadbuster became a member of the Wreckers.

[[File:LastStandoftheWreckers4-triumphoverevil.jpg|thumb|upright=1.66|Since I joined these men, I've seen slag that'll turn you white!]]
Roadbuster and the Wreckers embarked on a hunt for [[Squadron X]], a Decepticon battle unit known for the atrocities it left in its wake. The hunt culminated in a battle between the two groups on [[Pova]]. Roadbuster himself brought down Squadron X's ship, the ''[[Pale Fire]]'', with a single shot. {{storylink|Bullets}} According to official paperwork, a desperate surprise tactic by Springer and Impactor, along with support from Roadbuster and [[Rack'n'Ruin]], turned the tide in the Wreckers' favor and Squadron X was defeated. However, as the Wreckers were prepping them for transport and imprisonment, Squadron X managed to escape. Impactor would not allow this, and a second battle with them ended in the deaths of every single member of Squadron X. However, this particular version of events was a cover story. {{storylink|Last Stand of the Wreckers issue 4|Last Stand of the Wreckers #4}}

What had ''actually'' occurred on Pova was that the Wreckers were going to be forced to release the captive Squadron X, as they were violating a neutrality agreement with the Povians by fighting there. Not willing to go along with this, Impactor locked himself in a room with the bound and helpless Decepticons and personally executed them all. Roadbuster and the other Wreckers, save Springer, made no move to stop him. {{storylink|Last Stand of the Wreckers issue 5|Last Stand of the Wreckers #5}}

Having been the one who handed Impactor the gun that was used to execute Squadron X, Roadbuster was inwardly proud of his leader's actions. However, once Springer reported Impactor to [[Autobot High Command]], Roadbuster and the others realized that they were in danger of being implicated in the crime as well. Roadbuster and the other Wreckers approached Springer individually in the time leading up to Impactor's trial, each telling him that they had no idea what Impactor was going to do. For his part, Roadbuster claimed that he had thought Impactor WAS going to release Squadron X as planned, and that the gun was only for self-defense. The Wreckers asked Springer to be their new leader and Springer bought into their pleas, officially clearing them of complicity in Impactor's crime at the trial. {{storylink|Zero Point}}

[[File:Animals-RadarGatoraider.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.5]]
At some point, the Wreckers attacked a Decepticon squad led by [[Krok (G1)|Krok]]. High on [[Syk]], Roadbuster tore out [[Radar]]'s spine and made him ''eat it''. The attack would traumatize Krok and become infamously-known as the "[[Roadbuster affair]]". {{storylink|Animals}} Wreckers chronicler [[Ironfist (G1)|Ironfist]] would later cite it as one of the more compelling events to research in Wreckers history. {{storylink|Last Stand of the Wreckers issue 1|Last Stand of the Wreckers #1}}

[[File:Stormbringer2 Roadbuster.jpg|right|upright=0.85|thumb|[[Jero|Human sacrifice,]] [[K-9|dogs]] [[Ravage (G1)|and cats]] [[Pax Cybertronia|living together...]] [[Kelly (RID)|mass hysteria]]!]]
Many stellar cycles later, Roadbuster used his considerable armament against the Decepticons holed up in their [[Infiltration protocol|siege mode]] armature on the world of [[Varas Centralus]] in the [[Kol System]]. During the battle he handed Springer a comm-unit with an urgent call from Operations Command: orders from [[Optimus Prime (G1)/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Optimus Prime]] himself redeploying the Wreckers to Cybertron. {{storylink|Stormbringer issue 2|Stormbringer #2}}

After the Wreckers arrived on Cybertron, Roadbuster saved [[Nosecone (G1)|Nosecone]] and [[Afterburner (G1)|Afterburner]] from a group of [[Centurion droid]]s, before having [[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]] evacuate the two unconscious [[Technobot (G1)|Technobots]] out of the area. After the Wreckers blasted their way into [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]'s base and very, very, very quickly defeated the cultists, Roadbuster and Whirl rescued [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] from where he and the other Technobots were being recycled into raw materials. {{storylink|Stormbringer issue 3|Stormbringer #3}} After [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] returned to Cybertron, Roadbuster, [[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]] and [[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]] served as advanced scouts, watching the giant [[Pretender]]'s activity. They legged it when Thunderwing unleashed a wave of destruction in memory of his failed attempts to convince [[Megatron (G1)/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Megatron]] and the scientific community of Cybertron to support his experimentation. As the battle was joined, Roadbuster's group tried to get Thunderwing's attention, but were blown away by a thunderous clap of his giant hands. {{storylink|Stormbringer issue 4|Stormbringer #4}}

[[File:Roadbustertotherescue.jpg|left|upright=1.1|thumb|Why worry? Each one of us is carrying an unlicensed nuclear accelerator on his back.]]
Much later, the Wreckers were called in by [[Hound (G1)|Hound]]'s unit to fight Thunderwing on [[Corata-Vaz]]. Roadbuster was part of the [[alternate mode|vehicle mode]] ground assault, but all the Autobot combatants were blown away by the monster's ionic discharge. {{storylink|Spotlight: Hardhead}} Thunderwing eventually assumed his powered-up [[Super Mode|Ultra Mode]], and Roadbuster poured hundreds of rounds into the being's left flank before Jetfire came up with an idea to take control of Thunderwing. {{storylink|Spotlight: Doubledealer}}

Jetfire managed to gain remote control using Bludgeon's old axis cradle trick, and the Wreckers slipped past to disable the [[Nega-Core]] that Thunderwing had been guarding. Jetfire eventually lost control and Thunderwing turned back to advance on Roadbuster and the others as they futilely poured firepower into the massive Pretender. {{storylink|Spotlight: Sideswipe}}

Some time later, more than half of the Wreckers were captured and imprisoned by the Decepticon commander [[Turmoil]] and his crew. The recently rehabilitated [[Kup (G1)|Kup]] led a rescue team that included Roadbuster to infiltrate Turmoil's ship. There, they ran into [[Drift (G1)|Drift]], who was also trying to rescue the captured Wreckers. Roadbuster and the others managed to rescue their comrades and Kup formally offered Drift a spot on a new unit he was planning to form. {{storylink|Spotlight: Drift}}

Subsequently, Roadbuster appeared as part of the crew of the starship [[Trion]], under Kup's command. Receiving a distress call from [[Hot Rod/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Hot Rod]], Kup's team went to rescue him. They found Hot Rod being menaced by Bludgeon and the [[Pretender Monster|Monstructor Six]]. Bludgeon quickly commanded the team to merge into [[Monstructor (G1)|Monstructor]] and the [[combiner|gestalt]] easily brushed Roadbuster aside, knocking off his shoulder cannon. But Monstructor was soon thereafter defeated when [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]] demonstrated his newly honed sniping skills. Bludgeon opted to retreat in his ship and the crew of the Trion, now joined by Hot Rod, went in pursuit of the fleeing Decepticons. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 15|Lost & Found}}

[[File:Slowmotionmoviewalkahm5.jpg|right|upright=1.1|thumb|Let's show this prehistoric bitch how we do things downtown.]]
The Trion was eventually lured into an enemy ambush, and had its defenses disabled due to its command codes having been gleaned from an Autobot traitor. Forced to crash-land, Roadbuster was stranded with the remainder of the ship's crew on the surface of [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], using their former ship as a base of operations. They eventually met up with the demoralized crew of the incapacitated Optimus Prime. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 5|All Hail Megatron #5}}

After the Trion's crew had settled in, [[Ironhide (G1)/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Ironhide]] and Roadbuster had a little chat outside, where Roadbuster revealed how frustrated he was that they had been taken down by the Decepticons without even a chance to shoot back. Noting Roadbuster's eagerness for a fight, Ironhide began to tell him something, but caught sight of a strange creature in the distance. It turned out to be an advance scout of the [[Insecticon swarm]], and Roadbuster immediately notified Kup of its presence. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 6|All Hail Megatron #6}}

The Autobots soon relocated their base-camp, and in his vehicle mode, Roadbuster served as a mobile command platform for Kup to ride on and [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]] to snipe from as they traveled. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 7|All Hail Megatron #7}} {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 8|All Hail Megatron #8}}

[[File:Roadbuster Loves Guns.jpg|left|upright=1.4|thumb|You're not ''sleeping'' with it, are you, Roadbuster?]]
After Optimus Prime was repaired and the Autobots prepared to make their final stand against the Insecticon swarm, [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] removed and modified one of the ''Trion'''s cannons to be used as a mounted turret for Roadbuster to fire. Roadbuster was quite enamored with the weapon and wanted to give it a name. When the swarm attacked, Roadbuster managed to destroy quite a few of them with his new cannon. But eventually he was forced to shove the cannon off its mount to crush a few of the Insecticon horde as they scaled the walls of the Autobots' temporary fortress. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 9|All Hail Megatron #9}} {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 10|All Hail Megatron #10}}

After the Autobots returned to Earth aboard [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]], Roadbuster jumped into battle alongside his comrades against the Decepticons. He grappled with [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] and overpowered him, disappointed that the Decepticon turned out to be a "lightweight". Roadbuster was then blasted away by Megatron. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 11|All Hail Megatron #11}} He survived though, and stood victorious behind Optimus Prime and the others as the Decepticons retreated. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron issue 12|All Hail Megatron #12}}

At some point following Megatron's defeat, Roadbuster became deeply involved with inventing a new weapon he dubbed the "[[Sparkeater (weapon)|Sparkeater]]", and was unavailable when Springer started to reform the Wreckers. {{storylink|Bullets}}

[[File:Roadbuster Bumblebee TheImpossibleKnot.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|No offense, guys, but I've gotta get my own lawyer.]]
He was on Earth when Optimus Prime chose to surrender to [[Skywatch]] two years after the defeat of Megatron. Hot Rod and some like-minded individuals broke off from the main Autobot force to find a way off the planet. Roadbuster chose to stay behind with the remaining Autobots, who elected [[Bumblebee (G1)/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Bumblebee]] as their new leader. {{storylink|The Impossible Knot}}

After the liberation of [[Garrus-9]], Springer was left in a comatose state following near-fatal injuries received at the hands of [[Overlord (Masterforce)|Overlord]]. Roadbuster, along with Whirl, were stationed on ''[[Debris]]'' to watch over their former leader. Whirl attempted to euthanize Springer with the Sparkeater weapon Roadbuster had developed. Stopping him before the deed could be done, Roadbuster issued "the Veto" on Whirl; the ability of any Wrecker to remove any other Wrecker from the team. After Whirl had been removed from the premises, Roadbuster continued his solemn vigil over Springer alone. {{storylink|Interiors}} To help Springer reawaken, it was recommended by [[Rung (G1)|Rung]] that Roadbuster read to him from ''[[Wreckers: Declassified]]''.

Before starting, he had to undertake the non-trivial task of learning to read.

Despite disliking his portrayal in them as a one-dimensional gun-nut, Roadbuster eventually read him every datalog - twice, the second time attempting the difficult words which escaped him the first time - except 113, which detailed their showdown with Squadron X at Pova. Roadbuster was extremely guilty about lying to avoid taking the fall with Impactor, and confessed this to his unconscious leader, also acknowledging that he felt that Springer was the best leader the Wreckers had ever had. After this disclosure, Roadbuster noticed some faint signs of stirring from Springer. {{storylink|Zero Point}}

{{charstubfiction|{{storylink|Sins of the Wreckers issue 1|Sins of the Wreckers #1}} {{storylink|Sins of the Wreckers issue 2|Sins of the Wreckers #2}} {{storylink|Sins of the Wreckers issue 3|Sins of the Wreckers #3}}}}

===''Cloud''===
[[File:Cloud Roadbuster.jpg|thumb|He represents Japan—''by dressing like AMERICA!'']]
Roadbuster is a [[Wrecker]], but unlike most other members of the volatile team, possesses a gentle, friendly and serious-minded personality. Sometimes he can get a bit ''too'' serious, though, and get bogged down by his doubts about the future, uncertain what will happen to him if peace is ever achieved and he won't be of use anymore. Skilled at both fighting and weapons engineering, Roadbuster wields the "Calibur Arms" (キャリバーアームズ ''Kyaribā Āmuzu''), a collection of weapons of his own design that can combine in various ways.

{{charstubfiction|{{storylink|Metamorphosis (Cloud)|Metamorphosis}} {{storylink|Overwhelm}} {{storylink|Concealment}} {{storylink|Struggle}} {{storylink|Fury (Cloud)|Fury}} {{storylink|Transcendence}} {{storylink|TFC-D04}} {{storylink|Transformers Cloud (issue)|Transformers Cloud}}}}

===''Transformers Legends'' comic===
Roadbuster and [[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]] were built in the [[Legends Universe]] by [[Tankor (BM)|Tankor]], inspired by designs from a [[w:Special Armored Battalion Dorvack|certain '80s giant robot anime]], to aid him in his plans to return the world to how it was in the '80s. In spite of Tankor's design intentions, however, [[Waspinator (BW)|Waspinator]] recognized them as Autobots from a [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel UK|British ''Transformers'' comic]], an origin story that confused the pair. While Whirl went on to have a change of heart and decided to be a hero instead, Roadbuster remained loyal to his commander Tankor and engaged his former partner in combat. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 4|Bonus Edition Vol. 4}} Declaring it time to enact his Total Humanity '80s Transformation Plan, Tankor entrusted his '80s Transformation Beam to Roadbuster and sent him to cause havoc by blasting everyone around him into various '80s forms. An impassioned speech from [[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] briefly halted Tankor's resolve, leaving him open to attack, but Roadbuster loyally shielded his commander and was broken into pieces by an air-dropped Rattrap as a result. Tankor retreated and had Roadbuster fixed up, after which the two started running an '80s-themed café instead. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 5|Bonus Edition Vol. 5}}

Waspinator later taught [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]] about Roadbuster and Whirl during his ''Transformers'' lesson, again explaining that they first appeared in a British comic. The concept of British Transformers had Megatron thinking of the pair as English stereotypes, and he imagined Roadbuster decked up as [[Sherlock Holmes]]. {{storylink|Transformers Legends (comic)#Whirl and Roadbuster Now on Sale, Buzz|Whirl and Roadbuster Now on Sale, Buzz}} On [[Christmas]], Roadbuster dressed up as a reindeer and helped Santa-Tankor hand out toys from the 80's. {{storylink|Transformers Legends (comic)#Christmas|Merry X'mas!!}}

Roadbuster later got concerned about Tankor when he picked a fight with [[Thrust (BM)|Thrust]] and [[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]]. {{storylink|Transformers Legends (comic)#I'm Tankor, dana!|I'm Tankor, dana!}} He then ran into Whirl again and was ready for a rematch, only to be taken aback when the self-styled "hero" ''took a hostage'', and even more so when the hostage took control of Whirl and forced him to pick up garbage. {{storylink|Transformers Legends (comic)|Whirl Versus Roadbuster!}} Eventually, Whirl returned to Tankor and Roadbuster's side and the three went back to terrorizing the population, but it all came to an end when a dimensionally displaced [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] defeated Tankor for good. Roadbuster and Whirl were left lost and confused about what to without their leader, so Jetfire invited them back to his [[Japanese Generation 1 cartoon continuity|home dimension]], reasoning they'd fit in better there. The pair accepted his offer and traveled through a [[solitarium]] portal to his universe, where they joined the Autobots and became founding members of a new unit: the Wreckers. {{storylink|Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 7|Bonus Edition Vol. 7}}

As Wreckers, Roadbuster and Whirl fought under [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] for many years, and one day in 2030, they noticed he was getting fatter. A comment from Whirl about Springer's failed relationship with [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] ended up upsetting their leader, and Roadbuster scrambled to try to cheer him up. {{storylink|Transformers Legends (comic)#LG19 Sprung Prologue Part 1|Sprung Prologue Part 1}} When Springer sought to become his old macho self again, Roadbuster and Whirl had an idea, suggesting that he go to the Legends Universe and have their creator, Tankor (now [[Rhinox (BW)|Rhinox]]), build him a cool new body. The two came with him on the trip to revisit their old home and observe his reconstruction. {{storylink|Transformers Legends (comic)#LG19 Sprung Prologue Part 2|Sprung Prologue Part 2}}

==Games==
===''Transformers Legends''===
Roadbuster and [[Topspin (G1)|Topspin]] were enlisted to assist [[Nova Prime]] in battle against Nemesis Prime, an evil future version of Nova. They were unable to prevail against this future threat. {{storylink|Prime Evil}} Roadbuster was a member of the fearless Wreckers squad which liberated Garrus-9 from the grip of [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]] and the [[Air Strike Patrol]], though they destroyed most of the facility in the process. {{storylink|The Wreckers}} [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] and Roadbuster were sent to prevent [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] and [[Darkwing]] from reviving [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]]. They failed, and were forced to help the two Decepticons defeat Thunderwing. {{storylink|Stormbringer (Legends)|Stormbringer}}

===''Transformers: Battle Tactics''===
[[File:BattleTacticsRoadbuster.jpg|thumb|300px|right| “Whirl, somehow this reminds me of the time you tried to drill a hole in your head. Do you remember that?”]]
Roadbuster participated in battles against a variety of opponents, both Autobots and Decepticons. Sometimes there were many of him! He was a Rare character who could be recruited by collecting 70 units of Cybermetal, 30 units of Transmetal, and 20 exclusive cores. {{storylink|Transformers: Battle Tactics}}
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==Toys==
===Generation 1===
[[File:G1Roadbuster toy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|I ain't afraid of no road!]]
*'''Roadbuster''' (Deluxe Vehicle, [[1985]])
**''Accessories:'' Laser rifle, Linear Blaster Gun, Shrapnel Missile Launcher, 5 missiles, Control Pack (with 2 Handles), power pack, antenna, Infrared Range Finder, large wheel covers (left & right), small wheel covers (left & right)

:Roadbuster transforms into an orange and green cybertronic jeep armed with a large gun. In [[robot mode]] he can hold the jeep's gun, and also has another rifle resembling a real world M16 rifle, and a shoulder-mounted missile launcher. He also wears a large backpack that has a very tall antenna and two articulated handlebars slung beneath his arms. Oh, and mustn't forget the snap-on armor plating that hides the jeep's tires.

:For a toy of his size, Roadbuster has an enormous number of accessories, of which the rangefinder for the jeep's gun may well be the smallest ever produced for any Transformer. Finding a loose complete Roadbuster can be very challenging—are you sure ''all'' the spare missiles are there? Better count again!

::*''[http://www.transformerland.com/wiki/toy-info/transformers-g1-deluxe-vehicles-roadbuster/578/ Patent info, price guide, and further reading on Roadbuster at Transformerland.com]''
::*''[http://www.tfu.info/1985/Autobot/Roadbuster/roadbuster.htm More information on Roadbuster at TFU.info]''
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===''Universe'' (2003)===
*'''Autobot Roadbuster'''
**''Accessories'': Crane/cannon, 2-part spare tire/blades, energon star, energon rifle

:A retool of ''[[Transformers: Energon (toyline)|Energon]]'' [[Strongarm (Energon)|Strongarm]] as Roadbuster was part of [[3H Productions]]' proposal for an [[BotCon#Proposed.2FUnreleased exclusives|OTFCC 2005]] convention exclusive set. However, with the financial collapse of [[3H Productions]] in late 2004 and the subsequent transfer of the ''Transformers'' convention license to [[Fun Publications]], all plans for this toy (and its companion piece [[Brawn (G1)#Universe (2003)|Brawn]]) were scrapped. It would have featured a new head and an Energon rifle.

{{canceledtoy}}
{{-}}

===''Universe'' (2008)===
[[File:Universe comicpack Roadbuster toy.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Choose! Choose the form of the Destructor!]]
*'''Autobot Ambush''' (Voyager Deluxe Comic 2-Pack, [[2008]])
**''Accessories:'' "Close-combat blade", Autobot [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]]-style [[Cyber Key]]

:A [[Target]]-[[exclusive]] [[redeco]] of ''[[Transformers: Cybertron (toyline)|Cybertron]]'' [[Hot Shot (Armada)/toys#CyCDF|Cybertron Defense Hot Shot]], ''[[Transformers: Universe (2008 toyline)|Universe]]'' "Autobot Roadbuster" transforms into a modified [[Wikipedia:M1117 Armored Security Vehicle|M1117 Guardian Armored Security Vehicle]]. When a Cyber Key is inserted into the back of the turret, the two "recoilless rifle" barrels open up into dual (non-firing) missile racks. Compartments on his shoulders and legs can also open up to reveal additional missile racks, while the front bumper halves flip outward to reveal machine guns and ''even more'' missile racks. Roadbuster also comes with a blade that can peg via [[5mm post|5mm-compatible post]] onto his hands or onto the front of his fist, and can stow between his legs in vehicle mode as an exhaust pipe of sorts. Additionally, the blade can be put away in a sheath on his leg, and the same sheath can be used to store his Cyber Key in vehicle mode. His (conveniently color-coded) red Cyber Key is unpainted, save for its silver Autobot symbol.

:The [[instructions]] and [[package art]] for this toy depict his green shoulder panels as being swapped.

:He is packed with [[Dirge (G1)#Universe (2008)|Dirge]] and a comic book. In its first release in Canada, the set did not include a comic (in spite of the ''INCLUDES COMIC!'' marking on the package), and in the US, the set included the ''wrong'' comic. Instead of ''The Dark Ages'' issue "[[Escalation]]", which was meant for the "Standoff Beneath the Streets" Voyager-Deluxe two-pack of [[Springer (G1)#Universe (2008)|Springer]] and [[Ratbat (G1)#Universe (2008)|Ratbat]], the right comic was to be a reprint of "[[Target: 2006]]" parts [[Target: 2006#Wreck and Rule!|5]] and [[Target: 2006#The Devil You Know...|6]], which was similarly and erroneously included with the "Standoff Beneath the Streets" two-pack.

:This mold was also used to make ''[[Transformers Timelines (toyline)|Timelines]]'' [[BotCon 2007]] [[Springer (G1)#Timelines|Springer]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2008/Autobot/TFURoadbuster/roadbuster.htm More information on ''Universe'' Roadbuster at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===''Generations''===
[[File:TFGenerations Voyager Roadbuster.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|I tried to think of the most harmless thing. Something I loved from my childhood. Something that could never ever possibly destroy us.]]
*'''Roadbuster''' (Voyager, [[2014]])
**''Series / Number:'' '''02 / 008'''
**''Accessories:'' Launcher, missile, missile pod, pistol, rifle, cannon/rifle stock, cannon/rifle scope

:Part of the seventh wave of ''[[Transformers: Generations|Generations:]] [[Thrilling 30]]'' Voyager Class toys, Roadbuster (yes, without the "Autobot" prefix) is an all-new mold, transforming into an off-road vehicle. He comes with ''numerous'' weapons, all of which peg via 5mm post onto his vehicle rear/legs, shoulders, upper & lower arms, and hands: a spring-loaded, missile-firing launcher, a pistol, a rifle, a (nonfiring) missile pod, and two small cannons that respectively form the scope and stock of the rifle. All of his weapons can combine to form an unwieldy superweapon. Some of his 5mm ports appear to be slightly too small, making it difficult to fit weapons into them.

:Roadbuster also comes with a [[sticker]] sheet to help give him some detail, such as his much-needed Autobot chest insignia. It also comes with an alternative Wrecker insignia, although the clear-plastic nature of the stickers means that the blue ends up blackish when placed on his orange chest. Bummer. Most of the stickers are actually a pre-cut rectangular size, meaning almost all the stickers don't actually fit onto their designated spots, leading to people either leaving them off, trimming them, or placing them in different spots.

:This mold was also used by [[Transformers Cloud|''Cloud'']] Roadbuster and [[BotCon 2015]] [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#Timelines|General Optimus Prime]].

::*''[http://www.tfu.info/2014/Autobot/GenRoadbuster/roadbuster.htm More information on ''Generations'' Roadbuster at TFU.info]''
{{-}}

===''Legends''===
[[File:Legends-toy Roadbuster.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|Relax, I'm not the Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man.]]
*'''Roadbuster''' (Voyager, [[November 29|11-29]]-[[2014]])
**''ID number:'' '''LG04'''
**''Accessories:'' Launcher, missile, missile pod, pistol, rifle, cannon/rifle stock, cannon/rifle scope

:''Legends'' Roadbuster is a redeco of ''Generations'' Roadbuster with some ever-so-slight changes, such as his optics are now unpainted giving him a light piping effect, completely orange thighs and a single patch of green on both his lower side legs. He doesn't come with a sticker sheet, instead having an Autobot sigil tampographed on his chest, but does come with a leaflet featuring a character profile, tech specs and [[Legends Comic: Bonus Edition Vol. 4|volume 4]] of the ''[[Transformers Legends (comic)|Transformers Legends]] Comic: Bonus Edition'' mini-comic. There are some reports of mold degradation especially on his loose ratcheted shoulder joints.
{{-}}

===''Cloud''===
[[File:Takaratomy-cloud-roadbuster.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb|After 10 years, now I clog online shop shelves!]]
*'''Roadbuster''' ([[March 21|3-21]]-[[2015]])
**''ID number:'' '''TFC-A04'''
**''Accessories:'' Launcher, missile, missile pod, pistol, rifle, cannon/rifle stock, cannon/rifle scope

:Roadbuster is a red and blue [[redeco]] of [[Transformers: Generations|''Generations'']] Voyager-class [[Roadbuster (G1)#Generations|Roadbuster]] as a homage to [[Transformers: Energon (franchise)|''Energon'']] [[Ironhide (Energon)|Ironhide]] (whose Japanese name was Roadbuster). He transforms into an off-road vehicle and comes with the Calibur Arms, a large number of weapons that peg via 5mm post onto his vehicle rear/legs, shoulders, upper & lower arms, and hands: a spring-loaded, missile-firing launcher, a pistol, a rifle, and two small cannons that respectively form the scope and stock of the rifle. All of his weapons can combine to form an unwieldy superweapon.

:The first 500 customers who preordered got 1 of 3 gifts: one of two different Arms Microns, or the Anniversary Clear Version EZ Collection Optimus Prime.
{{--}}

==Merchandise==
===''EM Gōkin''===
[[File:EMGokin Roadbuster.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
*'''Transformers Roadbuster''' (2014)
**''ID number:'' '''EM-04'''
**''Accessories:'' Handheld Laser Rifle, back-mounted Linear Blaster Gun, backpack/Shrapnel Missile Launcher, shell, two fists, open left hand, display stand

:Produced by [[Art Storm]] as part of their ''EM Gōkin'' line, this posable but non-transforming Roadbuster figure shares the same origin as his original toy, being a fully licensed [[redeco]] of ''EM Gōkin'' EM-01 Mugen Calibur. His backpack piece is [[retool]]ed to add his trademark shoulder-mounted missile launcher, which can rest against his back or flip over his shoulder, and he lacks Mugen Calibur's ''Dorvack''-specific accessories. In addition to two default clenched fists, Roadbuster comes with a splayed open left hand and a right hand molded to his Laser Rifle, and on his back you can mount the aforementioned launcher backpack as well as an unwieldable Linear Blaster Gun. He also includes a shell that can be inserted in the handheld rifle's barrel, and a display stand with an Autobot symbol.

::*''[http://artstorm.co.jp/emgokin_roadbuster.html More information on ''EM Gōkin'' Roadbuster at Art Storm's official site]''
{{-}}

===''ES Gōkin''===
[[File:ESGokin Roadbuster.jpg|upright=1.66|thumb]]
*'''Transformers Roadbuster''' (2014)
**''Accessories:'' Laser Rifle, Linear Blaster Gun, Shrapnel Missile Launcher, two fists, two open hands, gun-wielding right hand, display stand

:Another Art Storm release, ''ES Gōkin'' Roadbuster is a cute [[super deformed]] take on the character. Similar to his ''EM'' counterpart he is a redeco/retool of ''ES Gōkin'' Mugen Calibur with an added shoulder launcher accessory, but ''this'' toy can be transformed into (an adorably chubby) jeep mode after [[Partformer|taking off his head]]. He comes with a handheld Laser Rifle that can be taken apart and combined with the back-mounted Linear Blaster Gun to increase the latter's length in vehicle mode, while the remaining handle stores on the jeep's side. Roadbuster also features an electronic light-up visor activated by a button on the back on his head.

::*''[http://artstorm.co.jp/esgokin_roadbuster.html More information on ''ES Gōkin'' Roadbuster at Art Storm's official site]''
{{-}}

===''Tiny Titans''===
*'''Roadbuster''' (2015)
:Another super deformed take on the character, Tiny Titans Roadbuster is a small static figurine that comes blindboxed as part of the fourth series of figurines.

==Notes==
*Both [[Deluxe Vehicle]]s were licensed from [[Takatoku Toys]] by [[Hasbro]] for inclusion in the 1985 line, and hence were not included in the Japanese line, the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|cartoon]], or the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|US Marvel comics]]. The Roadbuster mold was originally "Mugen Calibur" from the ''[[Wikipedia:Special Armored Battalion Dorvack|Dorvack]]'' toyline, though the Transformers release uses a completely different deco.
*The ''[[Transformers Generations]]'' guidebook [[Engrish|mistakenly]] spelled Roadbuster's name as "Roadbaster". This would seem to imply that the cannon on his shoulder is loaded with piping hot giblet gravy.
*Poor Roadbuster never got a printed ''[[The Transformers Universe]]'' bio. One was written though, and finally revealed to the fans on [http://boltax.blogspot.com/2011/01/extended-bio-whirl.html ''Disciples of Boltax''] in 2010.

===Foreign names===
*''Japanese:'' '''Roadbuster''' (ロードバスター ''Rōdobasutā'')
*''French:'' '''Cahot''' (Canada, "Jolt")

[[Category:Cloud Autobots]]
[[Category:Generation 1 Autobots]]
[[Category:Generations]]
[[Category:Legends franchise]]
[[Category:Regeneration One Autobots]]
[[Category:Target exclusives]]
[[Category:Universe (2008)]]
[[Category:Wreckers]]

The Enemy Within!

2015-10-10T00:56:49Z

YoungDoctor: /* Continuity notes */

{{disambig2|the Marvel UK story|the unproduced [[Dreamwave Productions|Dreamwave]] issue|The Enemy Within}}
{{comicstory|
|prev=Man of Iron (issue)
|seriesissue=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel UK|''The Transformers'' (UK)]] #13–17
|next=Raiders of the Last Ark
|image=MarvelUK-013.jpg
|caption=What have you done with the real Sideswipe?
|title="The Enemy Within!"
|publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]
|coverdate=[[March 9|9th March]] – [[May 17|17th May]] [[1985]]
|script=[[Simon Furman]]
|art=[[John Ridgway]] (13) & [[Mike Collins]] (14–17)
|colours=[[Gina Hart]]
|letters=[[Richard Starkings]]
|editor=[[Sheila Cranna]]
|continuity=[[Marvel Comics continuity]]
}}
'''Brawn and Starscream both fall foul of their friends.'''

==Synopsis==
After challenging [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]]'s authority and being savagely reprimanded, [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]] plots Megatron's downfall. He plans to attack [[human]]s indiscriminately until the [[Autobot]]s come to their defense. This will force the other [[Decepticon]]s to come to his aid, and together they will destroy the Autobots, proving that Starscream's methods are superior to Megatron's. Unfortunately, [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] overhears Starscream's plotting and rushes to tell Megatron, but he is spotted, and Starscream attacks him and leaves him for dead.

[[File:RavageEnemyWithinColour.jpg|left|thumb|"Ravage's ALIVE!"]]
At the same time, in the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]], the Autobots are moving a heavy piece of machinery when it slips, and a short-circuit shocks [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]], knocking him unconscious. After his recovers, he begins to act strangely before eventually violently attacking [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] and then abandoning the Ark.

===The Best Laid Plans...===
Some time later, as Starscream attacks US Air Force Base [[Oregon Four-Alpha]], the other Decepticons discover the badly damaged Ravage, who reveals Starscream’s treachery. Enraged, the Decepticons race off, and [[Containment Manoeuvre Four-Eight|capture]] Starscream during his attack. Starscream demands his right to trial by combat.

[[File:TFUK14 Brawncar.jpg|thumb]]
Brawn, meanwhile, has gone on a rampage in the small town of [[St. Petersburg]], believing their cars to be enslaved robots... and when the immobile vehicles just sit there, he throws a wobbly and smashes them.

===Crime...and Punishment!===
The Autobots try to subdue Brawn but are overwhelmed, only winning due to an ambush by [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]]. The Autobots, unwilling to harm him in battle, use a [[neuro-tranquillizer]] to keep him down and take him back to base. Megatron, unwilling to let Starscream off so easily, plans to take advantage of the situation and suggests to [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] that they allow Starscream and Brawn to fight each other. Desperate to redeem himself, the now repaired Brawn agrees.

===Trial...and Error!===
The two battle, unaware that Megatron has stationed Ravage nearby with orders to blast Starscream if he wins the battle.

===Endings...and Beginnings!===
The battle goes against Brawn, and it appears that he has been destroyed. Following his orders, Ravage blows Starscream out of the sky, gaining revenge on him. He then lets the other Decepticons believe that it was the Autobots who attacked Starscream, motivating them to get behind Megatron and attack the Autobots.

Unknown to the Decepticons, Brawn was not destroyed. Instead, [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] projected a [[hologram]] showing his death while the real Brawn was taken to safety: the same electric shock that harmed Brawn boosted Mirage's hologram powers!

Back at the [[Fortress Sinister|Decepticon fortress]], Megatron is preparing to launch an all-out attack on the Autobots.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Bumblebee]] (7)
*[[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (8)
*[[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] (9)
*[[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] (10)
*[[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]] (11)
*[[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] (12)
*[[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] (13)
*[[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] (14)
*[[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]] (17)
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] (18)
*[[Gears (G1)|Gears]] (24)
*[[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] (25)
*[[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] (26)
|c2=
*[[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] (1)
*[[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]] (2)
*[[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (3)
*[[Skywarp (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Skywarp]] (4)
*[[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (5)
*[[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] (6)
*[[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]] (21)
*[[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (22)
*[[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]] (23)
*[[Earthquake (G1)|Earthquake]] (27)
*[[Tornado]] (28)
*[[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] (29)
|c3=
*[[Gordon]] (15)
*[[Alpha Leader]] (16)
*[[Mabel (G1)|Mabel]] (19)
*[[Phil]] (20)
}}

==Quotes==

==Notes==
===Artwork and technical errors===
[[File:Gearsg1firstappearance.jpg|upright=1.4|thumb]]
*The odd [[character model]] used for Sideswipe throughout issue #13 (and indeed on the cover) bears a striking similarity to that used for Gears in the famous center-spread 'roll call' sequence in US issue [[The Transformers (issue)|#1]] (right) - note especially the designs of the face, chest, and the shoulder-wheels.

===Continuity errors===
*[[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] is shown to be among the Autobots but is never seen again until he appears in further [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel UK|Marvel UK]] stories alongside [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Rodimus Prime]] and the other [[The Transformers: The Movie|post-Movie]] characters, beginning with the [[Time Wars]] story arc.

===Continuity notes===
*Like "[[Man of Iron (issue)|Man of Iron]]" and "[[Raiders of the Last Ark]]", this strip was originally printed between "[[The Last Stand]]" and "[[The New Order]]" but is set in some vague time ''before'' the Autobots and Decepticons were deactivated after [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave's]] arrival. The ''[[Robot War]]'' features run in issues #22, #36 & #63 of the comic place both this story and "Raiders of the Last Ark" (which it says immediately follows) between "[[Prisoner of War!]]" and "[[The Last Stand]]". ''Robot War'' was a bit cheeky in ignoring that "Last Stand" directly follows from "Prisoner", claiming [[Sparkplug Witwicky]] returns to the Ark after "Raiders".
*Megatron cites [[Spider-Man|Spider-Man]] as an example of how the humans may be useable.
*Brawn runs someone off the road and they have a fiery crash. No one ever says that he's been pulled out alive...
*First appearance of [[OBTV News]].

===Real-life references===
*The first panel of part three's seventh page, in which Starscream shoots down a human military jet, is an homage to Roy Lichtenstein's painting, ''[[Wikipedia:Whaam!|Whaam!]]'', complete with sound effect.

===Other trivia===
{{bigquote|If someone had told me back in 1985 that I'd still be writing TF in 2002, I'd have laughed.|Simon Furman, [http://www.alteredstatesmag.com/features/qanda/sfurman_2.php Altered States Q&A]... and he's still doing it in 2014!}}
*This was the first Transformers to be written by [[Simon Furman]]. He has gone on record as saying that he does not think much of this early work and does not wish to see it reprinted, which may explain the story's absence from the [[Titan Books]] reprints. It was since reprinted in [[IDW Publishing]]'s ''[[The Transformers Classics UK Volume 1]]'', where Mike Collins says he thinks Furman "hit the ground running".

===Back-up Material===

'''Issue #13:'''
*'''Backup strips:'''
{{collist|4|
:*''Machine Man'' - "Kill Me or Cure Me" Part 4
:* ''Chromobots''
:* ''Matt and the Cat''
}}
*'''[[Fact File]]:''' [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]]
'''Issue #14:'''
*'''Backup strips:'''
{{collist|4|
:*''Machine Man'' - "Kill Me or Cure Me" Part 5
:* ''Chromobots''
:* ''Matt and the Cat''
}}
*'''Fact File:''' Humph (star of ''Matt and the Cat'')
'''Issue #15:'''
*'''Backup strips:'''
{{collist|4|
:*''Machine Man'' - "Arms and the Robot" Part 1
:* ''[[Robo-Capers]]''
:* ''Chromobots''
:* ''Planet Terry''
:* ''Matt and the Cat''
:*''Tales from the Fact Files'' - "Trapped Beneath the Waves!"
}}
*'''Fact File:''' [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]]
*The first appearance of [[Lew Stringer]]'s Robo-Capers, which would run all the way until [[Enemy Action!|#152]]
'''Issue #16:'''
*'''Backup strips:'''
{{collist|4|
:*''Machine Man'' - "Arms and the Robot" Part 2
:* ''Robo-Capers''
:* ''Chromobots''
:* ''Planet Terry''
:* ''Matt and the Cat''
}}
*'''Fact File:''' [[Prowl (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Prowl]]
'''Issue #17:'''
*'''Backup strips:'''
{{collist|4|
:*''Machine Man'' - "Arms and the Robot" Part 3
:* ''Robo-Capers''
:* ''Chromobots''
:* ''Planet Terry''
:* ''Matt and the Cat''
*''Tales from the Fact Files'' - "The Truth about Alcatraz"
}}
*'''Fact File:''' [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Soundwave]]
{{-}}

===Covers (15)===
<gallery>
File:MarvelUK-013.jpg|'''Issue #13''' - Let's get rrready to Frrrenzy!
File:MarvelUK-014.jpg|'''Issue #14''' - "With a mind like yours, I'd try the land crab."
File:MarvelUK-015.jpg|'''Issue #15''' - Either Starscream has shrunk, or Brawn has grown.
File:MarvelUK-016.jpg|'''Issue #16''' - Geronimoooo!
</gallery>
*'''Issue #13 cover:''' Brawn giving Sideswipe a suplex, by [[John Ridgway]].
*'''Issue #14 cover:''' Brawn & Optimus Prime, by [[Mike Collins]].
*'''Issue #15 cover:''' Starscream vs. Brawn, by Mike Collins.
*'''Issue #16 cover:''' Brawn vs. Starscream, by Mike Collins.
<gallery>
File:MarvelUK-017.jpg|'''Issue #17''' - Is it just me, or is Megatron going bald?
File:CollectedComics4Cover.jpg|'''''Collected Comics'' #4'''
File:MarvelUK-308.jpg|'''Issue #308'''
File:MarvelUK-309.jpg|'''Issue #309'''
</gallery>
*'''Issue #17 cover:''' Laughing Megatron, by Mike Collins.
*'''''Collected Comics'' #4 cover:''' Starscream vs the Decepticons & Brawn vs the Autobots, by [[Will Simpson]].
*'''Issue #308 cover:''' [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] chokes [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]], by [[Stephen Baskerville]], [[Lesley Dalton]] and [[Robin Bouttell]].
*'''Issue #309 cover:''' Ratchet/Megatron fusion, by [[Frances Farmer]].
<gallery>
File:MarvelUK-313.jpg|'''Issue #313'''
File:MarvelUK-314.jpg|'''Issue #314'''
File:MarvelUK-315.jpg|'''Issue #315'''
File:MarvelUK-316.jpg|'''Issue #316''' - Colour your own Transformers!
</gallery>
*'''Issue #313 cover:''' Shockwave's troops, by [[Staz|Stewart Johnson]] and Robin Bouttell.
*'''Issue #314 cover:''' [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] vs Shockwave, by [[Andrew Wildman]] and Robin Bouttell.
*'''Issue #315 cover:''' [[Circuit Breaker (G1)|Circuit Breaker]] vs Scorponok, by Andrew Wildman and Robin Bouttell.
*'''Issue #316 cover:''' Scorponok, Shockwave and Prime are transported to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] while the [[Neo-Knights]] watch, by Andrew Wildman.
<gallery>
File:MarvelUK-317.jpg|'''Issue #317''' - [[Emirate]] [[Xaaron]] impersonates [[Sunstorm (G1)|Sunstorm]].
File:BestofStarscream.jpg|'''''Best of Starscream'''''
File:Classicuk1.jpg|'''''The Transformers Classics UK'' Volume 1'''
</gallery>
*'''Issue #317 cover:''' Emirate Xaaron as servant of [[Primus]], by Andrew Wildman and Robin Bouttell.
*'''''Best of Starscream'' cover:''' Starscream schemes, by [[Klaus Scherwinski]].
*'''''The Transformers Classics UK'' Volume 1 cover:''' Cybertron, the Ark, [[Aunty|Auntie]], Optimus Prime, Megatron, the [[Overlord (rank)|Overlord]], the [[Man of Iron (Autobot)|Man of Iron]], [[Guardian (Marvel)|Guardian]] and the [[Ultimate Autobot]]s, by Andrew Wildman.

===Reprints===
*[[1986]] — ''[[Transformers Collected Comics]]'' #4 (in colour)
*[[1990]] — ''[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|The Transformers]]'' UK issues #308–309, #313–317
*[[2010]] — ''[[The Transformers: Best of Starscream]]'' (in colour)
*[[2011]] — [[The Transformers Classics UK Volume 1|''The Transformers Classics UK'' Volume 1]] (in colour)

{{DEFAULTSORT:Enemy Within!}}
[[Category:Marvel UK issues]]

Transformers: The Movie (Marvel comic)

2015-05-06T22:35:21Z

YoungDoctor: /* Collections */

{{disambig3|Transformers: The Movie}}
{{picsneeded}}
'''''Transformers: The Movie''''' ('''''The Transformers: The Movie''''' for the first issue) is a three-part mini-series adaptation of ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'', published by [[Marvel Comics]] in 1986.

{{chapters|title=''Transformers: The Movie'' issues:|content=
*[[The Planet-Eater!|#1]]
*[[Judgment Day!|#2]]
*[[The Final Battle!|#3]]}}

==Overview==
It's the movie. There's a huge fight, all your favorite characters die, [[Unicron]] eats moons, the [[Autobot|Autobots]] have some adventures, then blow up Unicron. You've seen it.

Although the essentials of the movie's story remain intact, quite a few details vary between comic and screen; there is very little that isn't different in some way. Though the first issue was released at the same time as the movie with issues [[Judgment Day!|#2]] and [[The Final Battle!|#3]] being released after the film disappeared from theaters, it is uncertain just how much time and access the comic creators had to view the finished film when writing the adaptation, if any—the comic appears to have been written using a not-quite-final draft of the script.

There are many places where the comic incorporates elements from the original script that didn't make it to the finished film. Characters' dialog is much more exposition-heavy, partly a necessary evil due to the truncation that accompanies the transition of mediums, and partly due to the general eccentricities of writer Ralph Macchio, whose comic work regularly featured this sort of "self-narrating" dialog long after it had passed out of widespread use. A good deal of material has been removed simply due to the space restraints of fitting the movie into three issues. Finally some things seem clearly added due to the comic creators’ own initiative.

==Creative team==
The series was written by [[Ralph Macchio]], adapted from the movie script. Breakdowns (pencils) were provided by [[Don Perlin]], with finishes (inks) by [[Ian Akin]] and [[Brian Garvey]].

==UK printing==
[[Image:Tftmadaptukspec.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Someone clearly didn't like Daniel. Will the suspects please form an orderly queue...]]
The entire three-part series was printed in a seventy-six page Winter Special with a card cover. This was the largest single-story ''Transformers'' comic released by Marvel UK. The cover used was a cropped version of the cover to [[The Planet-Eater!|issue #1]].

To maintain continuity with the story "[[Target: 2006]]", the date in the adaptation was changed to 2006.

==Collections==
* [[Classic Transformers Volume 6|IDW Classic Transformers Volume 6]]
* [[The Transformers Classics, Vol. 7]]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Movie (Marvel Comics), Transformers: The}}
[[Category:Adaptations]]
[[Category:Generation 1 comic series]]
[[Category:Transformers: The Movie issues| ]]

End of the Road! (US)

2014-10-12T20:47:31Z

YoungDoctor: /* Covers */

{{disambig3|End of the Road}}
{{Comicstory|
|seriesissue=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|''The Transformers'' (US)]] #80
|prev=The Last Autobot?
|next=Unfoldings!
|seriesissue2=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel UK|''The Transformers'' (UK)]] #331–332
|prev2=The Last Autobot?
|next2=Another Time & Place
|seriesissue3=[[Transformers: Classics]]
|next3=The New World
|seriesissue4=[[The Transformers: Regeneration One]]
|next4=Counterpoint
|title="End of the Road!"
|image=MarvelUS-80.jpg
|caption="I am victorious! Is there any who can challenge [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]?!" "[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Me]]." "...Oh, [[Slag (slang)|slag]]."
|publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]
|date=May [[1991]]
|coverdate=July 1991
|writer=[[Simon Furman]]
|penciler=[[Andrew Wildman]]
|inker=[[Stephen Baskerville]]
|colorist=[[Nelson Yomtov|Nel Yomtov]]
|letterer=[[Rick Parker]]
|editor=[[Rob Tokar]]
|continuity=[[Marvel Comics continuity]]
}}

'''All good things...'''

==Synopsis==
Sometime after the end of the last issue, the [[Autobot]]s '''came''' to [[Klo]], '''saw''' a [[Decepticon]], and were '''conquered'''. As [[Octopunch (G1)|Octopunch]] leads a tracker team to hunt down the remaining survivors, [[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] is trying to keep the last five Autobots alive. Unfortunately for him, [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] is one of the survivors, and spares no breath berating Grimlock for the situation. It seems the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]] were led into an obvious trap upon the Autobots' arrival on Klo, and the resulting melee was a slaughter. Prowl's pontificating is cut short when [[Fangry]] leads the hunting party to double-back, and the Decepticons move in for the kill.

Back at the scene of the first battle, [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] is about to administer another execution when he and his warriors are suddenly caught off guard by the arriving [[Neo-Knights]]. The Decepticons quickly learn that the [[human]]s were only the first wave, and onto the battlefield drops the second wave—[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]], alive and kicking. Despite Bludgeon's disbelieving cries, Prime is indeed back, and he introduces his new friend, the legendary [[Last Autobot]]. The child of [[Primus]] relates how he first encountered [[Hi-Q]] and the Neo-Knights on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], and reformatted the [[Nebulan]] into a [[Nucleon]]-enhanced [[Action Master]] version of Optimus Prime.

The Decepticons dogpile on Optimus Prime, but prove less than effective. What's more, the Last Autobot begins using his powers to reanimate all of the fallen Autobots, increasing their forces by the minute. As Grimlock and his group of survivors charge over the hillside, the tide of battle quickly turns towards the Autobots, and Bludgeon's troops are put to retreat. As Bludgeon proclaims he will lead his troops into the voluntary exile that honor demands, he quietly tells [[Stranglehold]] to gather their forces, to live to fight another day.

As the Autobots wrap up, Optimus Prime informs his brethren that [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] survives, restored by the Last Autobot's power and the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]] energy that washed over the planet in the final battle with [[Unicron]]. The Autobots prepare to help the [[Klozian]]s rebuild, take the Neo-Knights home and, finally, return to their home planet for a new era of peace and enlightenment.

[['Til all are one]].

{{note|Multiple companies have continued the story of the Marvel Comics universe in different ways, meaning that story is continued in several mutually-exclusive directions:''
*The UK Annual story "[[Another Time & Place]]".
*The ''[[G.I. Joe (comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' issue "[[Unfoldings!]]", leading into the ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Generation 2]]'' series.
*The [[Fun Publications]] "[[Transformers: Classics|Classicverse]]", starting chronologically with "[[The New World]]".
*The [[IDW Publishing]] miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One]]''.

'''''It never ends!'''''}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Getaway]] (1)
*[[Nightbeat (G1)|Nightbeat]] (8)
*[[Slapdash (G1)|Slapdash]] (9)
*[[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (10)
*[[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] (11)
*[[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] (12)
*[[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (13)
*[[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] (14)
*[[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (15)
*[[Siren]] (16)
*[[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] (21)
*[[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] (22)
*[[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (23)
*[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] (24)
*[[Slag (G1)|Slag]] (25)
*[[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]] (26)
*[[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]] (27)
*[[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]] (28)
*[[Last Autobot]] (29)
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] (32)
*[[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] (33)
|c2=
*[[Dreadwing (G1)|Dreadwing]] (2)
*[[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] (3)
*[[Battletrap]] (4)
*[[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] (5)
*[[Crankcase (G1)|Crankcase]] (6)
*[[Stranglehold]] (7)
*[[Fangry]] (17)
*[[Quake (G1)|Quake]] (18)
*[[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]] (19)
*[[Octopunch (G1)|Octopunch]] (20)
*[[Horri-Bull (G1)|Horri-Bull]] (37)
*[[Squeezeplay (G1)|Squeezeplay]] (38)
*[[Skullcruncher]] (39)
|c3=
*[[Thunderpunch]] (29)
*[[Dynamo]] (30)
*[[Rapture]] (31)
*[[G.B. Blackrock]] (35)
*[[Circuit Breaker (G1)|Circuit Breaker]] (36)
|h4=[[Nebulan]]s
|c4=
*[[Hi-Q]] (34)
}}

==Quotes==
"Do you not understand? [[Furmanism|It's OVER—FINISHED!]]"
:—'''Bludgeon''', executing Siren

"As it was foretold, so it came to pass. But [[Hi-Q|the chosen one]]... was something of a surprise. Until I saw that there was [[More than Meets the Eye (disambiguation)|more to this tiny being than met the eye]]."
:—The '''Last Autobot'''

"And now... it is time for this mindless war to cease. It is [[Furmanism|done, finished.]]"
:—The '''Last Autobot'''

"ENOUGH! Do you not understand, Decepticons? [[Furmanism|It is over—FINISHED!]]"
:—'''Optimus Prime''', in a mockery of Bludgeon

"For me, personally, [[Furmanism|it never ends!]]"
:—'''Simon Furman''', giving mixed messages as he concludes the letters page

==Notes==
*Optimus Prime appears in his Action Master design, but Nucleon is not explicitly mentioned here as being a part of his transformation. However, Hi-Q absorbed energy during Grimlock's metamorphosis to Action Master form in "[[Still Life!]]", an indirect appropriation of Nucleon that is confirmed in Transformers UK Annual #7, "[[Another Time & Place]]".
*If a (Fill in the Blank)master is killed with their partner, could the Last Autobot still resurrect them?
*Apparently Crankcase is perfectly fine surviving without a head.
*With typical Marvel humor, this issue is billed as '''#80''' in a [[The Transformers Four-Issue Limited Series|'''four-issue''' limited series]].
*Nobody gets the final US cover corner box; instead, an orange and yellow beveled [[Decepticon]] [[insignia]] appears here, contrasting the [[Autobot]] symbol featured in the cover's logo.
*Simon Furman's "send-off" message at the end of the issue claims that this will almost certainly mark the end of the Transformers franchise, but that he hopes to continue to write stories about the Neo-Knights. Wonder how that turned out?
*Game over, man—game over.

===Covers===
<gallery>
Image:MarvelUS-80.jpg|'''US issue #80''' - Wheeljack never gets a break.
Image:MarvelUK-331.jpg|'''UK issue #331''' - All action, no [[Powermaster|'Master]].
Image:MarvelUK-332.jpg|'''UK issue #332''' - It's the end... but the moment has been prepared for.
Image:End of the road tpb cover.jpg|'''Titan Books ''End of the Road'' TPB'''
Image:Titan-EndOfTheRoadHC.jpg|'''Titan Books ''End of the Road'' HC'''
Image:Classic Transformers Vol6.jpg|'''IDW Classic Transformers Volume 6 TPB'''
Image:RG1 76-80 100pgSpectacular.jpg|'''IDW ''Regeneration One'' 100 Page Spectacular Cover A'''
Image:RG1 76-80 100pgSpectacular B.jpg|'''IDW ''Regeneration One'' 100 Page Spectacular Cover B'''
</gallery>
*'''US cover:''' Bludgeon about to dismember Wheeljack by [[Andrew Wildman]].
*'''UK issue #331 cover:''' Optimus Prime by Andrew Wildman; recolored version of page 12 of the story.
*'''UK issue #332 cover:''' recolored version of US cover.
*'''Titan Books ''End of the Road'' TPB:''' Galvatron, Grimlock, Bludgeon, Prowl and half of Unicron, by Andrew Wildman
*'''Titan Books ''End of the Road'' HC:''' Galvatron and generic Decepticons, by [[Bryan Hitch]], [[Andrew Currie]] & [[Chris Blythe]]
*'''''Classic Transformers'' Volume 6 TPB:''' A scrapbook of images from issues 76-80, all by Andrew Wildman and Stephen Baskerville
*'''IDW ''Regeneration One 100 Page Spectacular'' Cover A:''' Action Master Grimlock smashes
*'''IDW ''Regeneration One 100 Page Spectacular'' Cover B:''' Hi-Q writhes in pain with the memories of Optimus Prime, surrounded by (anti-clockwise from top) The Last Autobot, Grimlock, Prowl, Ratchet, Galvatron, Fortress Maximus, Shockwave, Megatron and Bludgeon

===Advertisements===
*None yet identified.

===Reprints===
*[[2002]] — ''[[Transformers: End of the Road]]''
*[[2010]] — ''[[Classic Transformers Volume 6]]''
*[[2012]] — ''[[Transformers: Regeneration One 100-Page Spectacular]]''

[[Category:Marvel US issues]]
[[Category:Marvel UK issues]]

End of the Road! (US)

2014-10-12T20:46:53Z

YoungDoctor: /* Covers */

{{disambig3|End of the Road}}
{{Comicstory|
|seriesissue=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|''The Transformers'' (US)]] #80
|prev=The Last Autobot?
|next=Unfoldings!
|seriesissue2=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel UK|''The Transformers'' (UK)]] #331–332
|prev2=The Last Autobot?
|next2=Another Time & Place
|seriesissue3=[[Transformers: Classics]]
|next3=The New World
|seriesissue4=[[The Transformers: Regeneration One]]
|next4=Counterpoint
|title="End of the Road!"
|image=MarvelUS-80.jpg
|caption="I am victorious! Is there any who can challenge [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]?!" "[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Me]]." "...Oh, [[Slag (slang)|slag]]."
|publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]
|date=May [[1991]]
|coverdate=July 1991
|writer=[[Simon Furman]]
|penciler=[[Andrew Wildman]]
|inker=[[Stephen Baskerville]]
|colorist=[[Nelson Yomtov|Nel Yomtov]]
|letterer=[[Rick Parker]]
|editor=[[Rob Tokar]]
|continuity=[[Marvel Comics continuity]]
}}

'''All good things...'''

==Synopsis==
Sometime after the end of the last issue, the [[Autobot]]s '''came''' to [[Klo]], '''saw''' a [[Decepticon]], and were '''conquered'''. As [[Octopunch (G1)|Octopunch]] leads a tracker team to hunt down the remaining survivors, [[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] is trying to keep the last five Autobots alive. Unfortunately for him, [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] is one of the survivors, and spares no breath berating Grimlock for the situation. It seems the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]] were led into an obvious trap upon the Autobots' arrival on Klo, and the resulting melee was a slaughter. Prowl's pontificating is cut short when [[Fangry]] leads the hunting party to double-back, and the Decepticons move in for the kill.

Back at the scene of the first battle, [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] is about to administer another execution when he and his warriors are suddenly caught off guard by the arriving [[Neo-Knights]]. The Decepticons quickly learn that the [[human]]s were only the first wave, and onto the battlefield drops the second wave—[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]], alive and kicking. Despite Bludgeon's disbelieving cries, Prime is indeed back, and he introduces his new friend, the legendary [[Last Autobot]]. The child of [[Primus]] relates how he first encountered [[Hi-Q]] and the Neo-Knights on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], and reformatted the [[Nebulan]] into a [[Nucleon]]-enhanced [[Action Master]] version of Optimus Prime.

The Decepticons dogpile on Optimus Prime, but prove less than effective. What's more, the Last Autobot begins using his powers to reanimate all of the fallen Autobots, increasing their forces by the minute. As Grimlock and his group of survivors charge over the hillside, the tide of battle quickly turns towards the Autobots, and Bludgeon's troops are put to retreat. As Bludgeon proclaims he will lead his troops into the voluntary exile that honor demands, he quietly tells [[Stranglehold]] to gather their forces, to live to fight another day.

As the Autobots wrap up, Optimus Prime informs his brethren that [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] survives, restored by the Last Autobot's power and the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]] energy that washed over the planet in the final battle with [[Unicron]]. The Autobots prepare to help the [[Klozian]]s rebuild, take the Neo-Knights home and, finally, return to their home planet for a new era of peace and enlightenment.

[['Til all are one]].

{{note|Multiple companies have continued the story of the Marvel Comics universe in different ways, meaning that story is continued in several mutually-exclusive directions:''
*The UK Annual story "[[Another Time & Place]]".
*The ''[[G.I. Joe (comic)|G.I. Joe]]'' issue "[[Unfoldings!]]", leading into the ''[[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|Generation 2]]'' series.
*The [[Fun Publications]] "[[Transformers: Classics|Classicverse]]", starting chronologically with "[[The New World]]".
*The [[IDW Publishing]] miniseries ''[[The Transformers: Regeneration One]]''.

'''''It never ends!'''''}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Getaway]] (1)
*[[Nightbeat (G1)|Nightbeat]] (8)
*[[Slapdash (G1)|Slapdash]] (9)
*[[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (10)
*[[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] (11)
*[[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] (12)
*[[Silverbolt (G1)|Silverbolt]] (13)
*[[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] (14)
*[[Air Raid (G1)|Air Raid]] (15)
*[[Siren]] (16)
*[[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] (21)
*[[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] (22)
*[[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (23)
*[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] (24)
*[[Slag (G1)|Slag]] (25)
*[[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]] (26)
*[[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]] (27)
*[[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]] (28)
*[[Last Autobot]] (29)
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] (32)
*[[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] (33)
|c2=
*[[Dreadwing (G1)|Dreadwing]] (2)
*[[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] (3)
*[[Battletrap]] (4)
*[[Snapdragon (G1)|Snapdragon]] (5)
*[[Crankcase (G1)|Crankcase]] (6)
*[[Stranglehold]] (7)
*[[Fangry]] (17)
*[[Quake (G1)|Quake]] (18)
*[[Weirdwolf (G1)|Weirdwolf]] (19)
*[[Octopunch (G1)|Octopunch]] (20)
*[[Horri-Bull (G1)|Horri-Bull]] (37)
*[[Squeezeplay (G1)|Squeezeplay]] (38)
*[[Skullcruncher]] (39)
|c3=
*[[Thunderpunch]] (29)
*[[Dynamo]] (30)
*[[Rapture]] (31)
*[[G.B. Blackrock]] (35)
*[[Circuit Breaker (G1)|Circuit Breaker]] (36)
|h4=[[Nebulan]]s
|c4=
*[[Hi-Q]] (34)
}}

==Quotes==
"Do you not understand? [[Furmanism|It's OVER—FINISHED!]]"
:—'''Bludgeon''', executing Siren

"As it was foretold, so it came to pass. But [[Hi-Q|the chosen one]]... was something of a surprise. Until I saw that there was [[More than Meets the Eye (disambiguation)|more to this tiny being than met the eye]]."
:—The '''Last Autobot'''

"And now... it is time for this mindless war to cease. It is [[Furmanism|done, finished.]]"
:—The '''Last Autobot'''

"ENOUGH! Do you not understand, Decepticons? [[Furmanism|It is over—FINISHED!]]"
:—'''Optimus Prime''', in a mockery of Bludgeon

"For me, personally, [[Furmanism|it never ends!]]"
:—'''Simon Furman''', giving mixed messages as he concludes the letters page

==Notes==
*Optimus Prime appears in his Action Master design, but Nucleon is not explicitly mentioned here as being a part of his transformation. However, Hi-Q absorbed energy during Grimlock's metamorphosis to Action Master form in "[[Still Life!]]", an indirect appropriation of Nucleon that is confirmed in Transformers UK Annual #7, "[[Another Time & Place]]".
*If a (Fill in the Blank)master is killed with their partner, could the Last Autobot still resurrect them?
*Apparently Crankcase is perfectly fine surviving without a head.
*With typical Marvel humor, this issue is billed as '''#80''' in a [[The Transformers Four-Issue Limited Series|'''four-issue''' limited series]].
*Nobody gets the final US cover corner box; instead, an orange and yellow beveled [[Decepticon]] [[insignia]] appears here, contrasting the [[Autobot]] symbol featured in the cover's logo.
*Simon Furman's "send-off" message at the end of the issue claims that this will almost certainly mark the end of the Transformers franchise, but that he hopes to continue to write stories about the Neo-Knights. Wonder how that turned out?
*Game over, man—game over.

===Covers===
<gallery>
Image:MarvelUS-80.jpg|'''US issue #80''' - Wheeljack never gets a break.
Image:MarvelUK-331.jpg|'''UK issue #331''' - All action, no [[Powermaster|'Master]].
Image:MarvelUK-332.jpg|'''UK issue #332''' - It's the end... but the moment has been prepared for.
Image:End of the road tpb cover.jpg|'''Titan Books ''End of the Road'' TPB'''
Image:Titan-EndOfTheRoadHC.jpg|'''Titan Books ''End of the Road'' HC'''
Image:Classic Transformers Vol6.jpg|'''IDW Classic Transformers Volume 6 TPB'''
Image:RG1 76-80 100pgSpectacular.jpg|'''IDW ''Regeneration One'' 100 Page Spectacular Cover A'''
Image:RG1 76-80 100pgSpectacular B.jpg|'''IDW ''Regeneration One'' 100 Page Spectacular Cover B'''
</gallery>
*'''US cover:''' Bludgeon about to dismember Wheeljack by [[Andrew Wildman]].
*'''UK issue #331 cover:''' Optimus Prime by Andrew Wildman; recolored version of page 12 of the story.
*'''UK issue #332 cover:''' recolored version of US cover.
*'''Titan Books ''End of the Road'' TPB:''' Galvatron, Grimlock, Bludgeon, Prowl and half of Unicron, by Andrew Wildman
*'''Titan Books ''End of the Road'' HC:''' Galvatron and generic Decepticons, by [[Bryan Hitch]], [[Andrew Currie]] & [[Chris Blythe]]
*'''''Classic Transformers'' Volume 6 TPB:''' A scrapbook of images from issues 76-80, all by Andrew Wildman and Stephen Baskerville
*'''IDW ''Regeneration One 100 Page Spectacular'' Cover A:''' Action Master Grimlock smashes
*'''IDW ''Regeneration One 100 Page Spectacular'' Cover B:''' Hi-Q writhes in pain with the memories of Optimus Prime, surrounded by (anti-clockwise from top) The Last Autobot, Grimlock, Prowl, Ratchet, Galvatron, Fortress Maximus, Shockwave, Megatron and Bludgeon
*'''''Transformers Classics'', Vol. 7 TPB:''' Ratchet by [[Guido Guidi]]

===Advertisements===
*None yet identified.

===Reprints===
*[[2002]] — ''[[Transformers: End of the Road]]''
*[[2010]] — ''[[Classic Transformers Volume 6]]''
*[[2012]] — ''[[Transformers: Regeneration One 100-Page Spectacular]]''

[[Category:Marvel US issues]]
[[Category:Marvel UK issues]]

Still Life!

2014-09-20T00:06:34Z

YoungDoctor: /* Reprints */

{{Comicstory|seriesissue=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|''The Transformers'' (US)]] #76
|prev=On the Edge of Extinction!
|next=Exodus!
|seriesissue2=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel_UK|''The Transformers'' (UK)]] #323–324
|prev2=On the Edge of Extinction!
|next2=Exodus!
|title="Still Life!"
|image=MarvelUS-76.jpg
|caption=Stop breathing down my neck!
|publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]
|date=January [[1991]]
|coverdate=March 1991
|writer=[[Simon Furman]]
|penciler=[[Andrew Wildman]]
|inker=[[Stephen Baskerville]]
|colorist=[[Nelson Yomtov|Nel Yomtov]]
|letterer=[[Rick Parker]]
|editor=[[Rob Tokar]]
|continuity=[[Marvel Comics continuity]]
}}

'''As their world lies dying, the Transformers attempt to maintain peace between themselves.'''

==Synopsis==
With [[Unicron]] destroyed, a small group of [[Autobot]]s and [[Decepticon]]s gather around the shattered remains of [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]], somehow still clinging to life. As Prime gasps out his final words, his last request is that [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] make sure [[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] takes command of the Autobots in his absence.

Elsewhere on the planet, Optimus Prime's [[Nebulan]] partner [[Hi-Q]] is on the run, fleeing from the creatures who just devoured [[Runabout (G1)|Runabout]]. He thinks to himself that he needs to get back to Prime, tell him about the miraculous changes they both are going through, thanks to the [[Powermaster]] process.

At the new United [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertronian]] compound, Prowl gives his news to a less than enthusiastic Grimlock. When Grimlock moves to go about his business with little more than a word, Prowl grabs him and tries to drill home his new responsibilities. Grimlock shoots back, telling him that the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] has been stolen, complete with several deactivated Autobots who were never fully brought back by the [[Nucleon]]. Grimlock was planning to lead his [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]] on an expedition to track down and retrieve the lost ship. Prowl's not done, though. He reminds Grimlock that Optimus Prime upheld a code of ideals for the Autobots, including the notion that Autobots do not kill, unless as a last resort to save others. He makes Grimlock vow to carry on Prime's views.

As Grimlock and the Dinobots leave, Prowl receives some bad news from [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]]'s seismology report, while [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] and his lieutenant [[Krok (G1)|Krok]] agree to bide time and weigh their options before making any moves.

On the search for the Ark, [[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]] questions Grimlock, submitting that Prowl may have been right, that preserving the peace was more important than their current mission. Cynically, Grimlock informs him that the peace has no chance of lasting anyway. As he goes on, Grimlock's body suddenly seizes up completely, leaving him totally paralyzed. Just then, Hi-Q catches up with the Dinobots, and his hunters find him as well. The monsters surround the Dinobots, who are forced into battle instead of running away, in order to defend their helpless leader.

Meanwhile, at the stolen Ark, [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]] and [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] are attempting to enact repairs to the damaged ship. Starscream doesn't understand why it's necessary to repair the Ark, when they could easily hunt around and find another one. Shockwave explains to his partner that the Ark is still the best ship on Cybertron, and his calculations suggest they won't have time to hunt down and steal another ship. A shadowy observer silently agrees with his assessment.

Back at the battle, the Dinobots are having a rough time with the [[Demon]]s: they are incredibly resilient and continue to pop up by the dozen. As the Dinobots still refuse to abandon Grimlock, he silently laments that his rash use of Nucleon may leave them all frozen as he is... or worse. However, Hi-Q's Powermaster "energy vision" sees something else in Grimlock—a chrysalis of pure energy slowly building beneath his superstructure. Using his special abilities, Hi-Q manages to tap into and boost the process, pushing Grimlock's transformation to fruition in a matter of moments. In his new [[Action Master]] robot mode, Grimlock is now bursting with power. He single-handedly sends the devil-creatures packing, and then grabs one of the stragglers to beat him to death as revenge. Hi-Q stops him, however, speaking to Grimlock about the inner conflict in his circuits, and that he only truly wins a battle when he gives peace and chance, and stops himself from taking life needlessly.

As the Dinobots turn to go, they're treated to a pair of surprises. First, Grimlock reveals that with his new power comes the loss of his ability to transform. Then, Hi-Q makes the startling claim that he somehow '''is''' Optimus Prime.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters|c1=
*[[Cloudburst]] (3)
*[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] (5)
*[[Hosehead (G1)|Hosehead]] (6)
*[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] (9)
*[[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (10)
*[[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] (11)
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] (12)
*[[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (13)
*[[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] (19)
*[[Rad]] (20)
*[[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (21)
*[[Nightbeat (G1)|Nightbeat]] (22)
*[[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]] (24)
*[[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]] (25)
*[[Slag (G1)|Slag]] (26)
*[[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]] (27)
|c2=
*[[Apeface]] (1)
*[[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] (2)
*[[Bomb-Burst (G1)|Bomb-Burst]] (4)
*[[Runamuck (G1)|Runamuck]] (7)
*[[Darkwing (G1)|Darkwing]] (8)
*[[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] (14)
*[[Skullgrin]] (15)
*[[Krok (G1)|Krok]] (23)
*[[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] (28)
*[[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]] (29)
*[[Galvatron II|Galvatron]] (30)
|h3=[[Nebulan]]s
|c3=
*[[Hi-Q]] (17)
|c4=
*[[Unicron]] (16)
*[[Demon]]s (18)
}}

==Notes==
*The highly damaged Optimus Prime is in his super robot form, but there isn't much in the artwork to indicate he has a [[:Image:PeoplePower-reprogrammed.jpg|smaller robot]] inside.
*The demons had previously appeared in the UK comic stories "[[Underworld!]]", "[[Demons!]]", and "[[Dawn of Darkness]]".
*This is the second time that [[The many deaths of Optimus Prime|Prime has died]] in the [[Earth-91274|Marvel US continuity]].
*Bludgeon and Grimlock are officially identified as the new Decepticon and Autobot leaders.
*Grimlock's paralysis has been building since his exposure to Nucleon in US issue [[The Pri¢e of Life!|#70]], first with his leg in [[...All This and Civil War 2|#72]] and then his hand in [[The Void! (US)|#74]].
*''[[The Transformers Universe|Transformers Universe]]'' profiles for [[Grotusque]] and [[Horri-Bull (G1)|Horri-Bull]] are found after the main story.
*Optimus Prime's appearance in the US cover's corner box is finally updated from his [[The Transformers (issue)|original form]] to his Powermaster body... or, in this case, what's left of it (the artwork is, rather grotesquely, taken directly from the interior of this issue).

===Errors===
*In spite of having died by getting stepped on by Unicron while in his Pretender shell, [[Bomb-Burst (G1)|Bomb-Burst]] is seen wrecked in altmode here. (Keep in mind though that the robots are long established as able to work outside their shells). Regardless, he's still dead.
*Pages nine and twelve of UK issue #324 have their color palettes reversed.
*The [[Transformers Universe]] profile for Grotusque says that his first appearance is "right here", when he actually first appeared in [[Ring of Hate!|Headmasters #1]].

===Covers===
<gallery>
Image:MarvelUS-76.jpg|'''US issue #76''' - Oh Grimlock you cad!
Image:MarvelUK-323.jpg|'''UK issue #323''' - What Transformers needs is more watercolours...
Image:MarvelUK-324.jpg|'''UK issue #324''' - Grimlock came last in the Dance Dance Revolution championship.
Image:End of the road tpb cover.jpg|'''[[Titan Books]] ''End of the Road'' TPB'''
Image:Titan-EndOfTheRoadHC.jpg|'''Titan Books ''End of the Road'' HC'''
Image:Classic Transformers Vol6.jpg|'''[[IDW Publishing|IDW]] Classic Transformers Volume 6 TPB'''
Image:RG1 76-80 100pgSpectacular.jpg|'''IDW ''Regeneration One'' 100 Page Spectacular Cover A'''
Image:RG1 76-80 100pgSpectacular B.jpg|'''IDW ''Regeneration One'' 100 Page Spectacular Cover B'''
</gallery>

*'''US issue #76 cover:''' Frozen Grimlock, Swoop, Sludge and a Demon by [[Andrew Wildman]].
*'''UK issue #323 cover:''' Aftermath of Unicron's attack by Andy Wildman.
*'''UK issue #324 cover:''' recolored version of US cover by [[Robin Bouttell]].
*'''Titan Books ''End of the Road'' TPB:''' Galvatron, Grimlock, Bludgeon, Prowl and half of Unicron, by Andrew Wildman
*'''Titan Books ''End of the Road'' HC:''' Galvatron and generic Decepticons, by [[Bryan Hitch]], [[Andrew Currie]] & [[Chris Blythe]]
*'''''Classic Transformers'' Volume 6 TPB:''' A scrapbook of images from issues 76-80, all by Andrew Wildman and Stephen Baskerville
*'''IDW ''Regeneration One 100 Page Spectacular'' Cover A:''' Action Master Grimlock smashes
*'''IDW ''Regeneration One 100 Page Spectacular'' Cover B:''' Hi-Q writhes in pain with the memories of Optimus Prime, surrounded by (anti-clockwise from top) The Last Autobot, Grimlock, Prowl, Ratchet, Galvatron, Fortress Maximus, Shockwave, Megatron and Bludgeon

===Advertisements===
*None yet identified.

===Reprints===
*[[2002]] — ''[[Transformers: End of the Road]]''
*[[2010]] — ''[[Classic Transformers Volume 6]]''
*2010 — ''[[The Transformers: Best of Grimlock]]''
*[[2012]] — ''[[Transformers: Regeneration One 100-Page Spectacular]]''
*[[2014]] - ''[[The Transformers Classics, Vol. 7]]''

[[Category:Marvel US issues]]
[[Category:Marvel UK issues]]

Still Life!

2014-09-20T00:06:08Z

YoungDoctor: /* Reprints */

{{Comicstory|seriesissue=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|''The Transformers'' (US)]] #76
|prev=On the Edge of Extinction!
|next=Exodus!
|seriesissue2=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel_UK|''The Transformers'' (UK)]] #323–324
|prev2=On the Edge of Extinction!
|next2=Exodus!
|title="Still Life!"
|image=MarvelUS-76.jpg
|caption=Stop breathing down my neck!
|publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]
|date=January [[1991]]
|coverdate=March 1991
|writer=[[Simon Furman]]
|penciler=[[Andrew Wildman]]
|inker=[[Stephen Baskerville]]
|colorist=[[Nelson Yomtov|Nel Yomtov]]
|letterer=[[Rick Parker]]
|editor=[[Rob Tokar]]
|continuity=[[Marvel Comics continuity]]
}}

'''As their world lies dying, the Transformers attempt to maintain peace between themselves.'''

==Synopsis==
With [[Unicron]] destroyed, a small group of [[Autobot]]s and [[Decepticon]]s gather around the shattered remains of [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]], somehow still clinging to life. As Prime gasps out his final words, his last request is that [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] make sure [[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] takes command of the Autobots in his absence.

Elsewhere on the planet, Optimus Prime's [[Nebulan]] partner [[Hi-Q]] is on the run, fleeing from the creatures who just devoured [[Runabout (G1)|Runabout]]. He thinks to himself that he needs to get back to Prime, tell him about the miraculous changes they both are going through, thanks to the [[Powermaster]] process.

At the new United [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertronian]] compound, Prowl gives his news to a less than enthusiastic Grimlock. When Grimlock moves to go about his business with little more than a word, Prowl grabs him and tries to drill home his new responsibilities. Grimlock shoots back, telling him that the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] has been stolen, complete with several deactivated Autobots who were never fully brought back by the [[Nucleon]]. Grimlock was planning to lead his [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]] on an expedition to track down and retrieve the lost ship. Prowl's not done, though. He reminds Grimlock that Optimus Prime upheld a code of ideals for the Autobots, including the notion that Autobots do not kill, unless as a last resort to save others. He makes Grimlock vow to carry on Prime's views.

As Grimlock and the Dinobots leave, Prowl receives some bad news from [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]]'s seismology report, while [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] and his lieutenant [[Krok (G1)|Krok]] agree to bide time and weigh their options before making any moves.

On the search for the Ark, [[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]] questions Grimlock, submitting that Prowl may have been right, that preserving the peace was more important than their current mission. Cynically, Grimlock informs him that the peace has no chance of lasting anyway. As he goes on, Grimlock's body suddenly seizes up completely, leaving him totally paralyzed. Just then, Hi-Q catches up with the Dinobots, and his hunters find him as well. The monsters surround the Dinobots, who are forced into battle instead of running away, in order to defend their helpless leader.

Meanwhile, at the stolen Ark, [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]] and [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] are attempting to enact repairs to the damaged ship. Starscream doesn't understand why it's necessary to repair the Ark, when they could easily hunt around and find another one. Shockwave explains to his partner that the Ark is still the best ship on Cybertron, and his calculations suggest they won't have time to hunt down and steal another ship. A shadowy observer silently agrees with his assessment.

Back at the battle, the Dinobots are having a rough time with the [[Demon]]s: they are incredibly resilient and continue to pop up by the dozen. As the Dinobots still refuse to abandon Grimlock, he silently laments that his rash use of Nucleon may leave them all frozen as he is... or worse. However, Hi-Q's Powermaster "energy vision" sees something else in Grimlock—a chrysalis of pure energy slowly building beneath his superstructure. Using his special abilities, Hi-Q manages to tap into and boost the process, pushing Grimlock's transformation to fruition in a matter of moments. In his new [[Action Master]] robot mode, Grimlock is now bursting with power. He single-handedly sends the devil-creatures packing, and then grabs one of the stragglers to beat him to death as revenge. Hi-Q stops him, however, speaking to Grimlock about the inner conflict in his circuits, and that he only truly wins a battle when he gives peace and chance, and stops himself from taking life needlessly.

As the Dinobots turn to go, they're treated to a pair of surprises. First, Grimlock reveals that with his new power comes the loss of his ability to transform. Then, Hi-Q makes the startling claim that he somehow '''is''' Optimus Prime.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters|c1=
*[[Cloudburst]] (3)
*[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] (5)
*[[Hosehead (G1)|Hosehead]] (6)
*[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] (9)
*[[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (10)
*[[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] (11)
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] (12)
*[[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (13)
*[[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] (19)
*[[Rad]] (20)
*[[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (21)
*[[Nightbeat (G1)|Nightbeat]] (22)
*[[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]] (24)
*[[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]] (25)
*[[Slag (G1)|Slag]] (26)
*[[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]] (27)
|c2=
*[[Apeface]] (1)
*[[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] (2)
*[[Bomb-Burst (G1)|Bomb-Burst]] (4)
*[[Runamuck (G1)|Runamuck]] (7)
*[[Darkwing (G1)|Darkwing]] (8)
*[[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] (14)
*[[Skullgrin]] (15)
*[[Krok (G1)|Krok]] (23)
*[[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] (28)
*[[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]] (29)
*[[Galvatron II|Galvatron]] (30)
|h3=[[Nebulan]]s
|c3=
*[[Hi-Q]] (17)
|c4=
*[[Unicron]] (16)
*[[Demon]]s (18)
}}

==Notes==
*The highly damaged Optimus Prime is in his super robot form, but there isn't much in the artwork to indicate he has a [[:Image:PeoplePower-reprogrammed.jpg|smaller robot]] inside.
*The demons had previously appeared in the UK comic stories "[[Underworld!]]", "[[Demons!]]", and "[[Dawn of Darkness]]".
*This is the second time that [[The many deaths of Optimus Prime|Prime has died]] in the [[Earth-91274|Marvel US continuity]].
*Bludgeon and Grimlock are officially identified as the new Decepticon and Autobot leaders.
*Grimlock's paralysis has been building since his exposure to Nucleon in US issue [[The Pri¢e of Life!|#70]], first with his leg in [[...All This and Civil War 2|#72]] and then his hand in [[The Void! (US)|#74]].
*''[[The Transformers Universe|Transformers Universe]]'' profiles for [[Grotusque]] and [[Horri-Bull (G1)|Horri-Bull]] are found after the main story.
*Optimus Prime's appearance in the US cover's corner box is finally updated from his [[The Transformers (issue)|original form]] to his Powermaster body... or, in this case, what's left of it (the artwork is, rather grotesquely, taken directly from the interior of this issue).

===Errors===
*In spite of having died by getting stepped on by Unicron while in his Pretender shell, [[Bomb-Burst (G1)|Bomb-Burst]] is seen wrecked in altmode here. (Keep in mind though that the robots are long established as able to work outside their shells). Regardless, he's still dead.
*Pages nine and twelve of UK issue #324 have their color palettes reversed.
*The [[Transformers Universe]] profile for Grotusque says that his first appearance is "right here", when he actually first appeared in [[Ring of Hate!|Headmasters #1]].

===Covers===
<gallery>
Image:MarvelUS-76.jpg|'''US issue #76''' - Oh Grimlock you cad!
Image:MarvelUK-323.jpg|'''UK issue #323''' - What Transformers needs is more watercolours...
Image:MarvelUK-324.jpg|'''UK issue #324''' - Grimlock came last in the Dance Dance Revolution championship.
Image:End of the road tpb cover.jpg|'''[[Titan Books]] ''End of the Road'' TPB'''
Image:Titan-EndOfTheRoadHC.jpg|'''Titan Books ''End of the Road'' HC'''
Image:Classic Transformers Vol6.jpg|'''[[IDW Publishing|IDW]] Classic Transformers Volume 6 TPB'''
Image:RG1 76-80 100pgSpectacular.jpg|'''IDW ''Regeneration One'' 100 Page Spectacular Cover A'''
Image:RG1 76-80 100pgSpectacular B.jpg|'''IDW ''Regeneration One'' 100 Page Spectacular Cover B'''
</gallery>

*'''US issue #76 cover:''' Frozen Grimlock, Swoop, Sludge and a Demon by [[Andrew Wildman]].
*'''UK issue #323 cover:''' Aftermath of Unicron's attack by Andy Wildman.
*'''UK issue #324 cover:''' recolored version of US cover by [[Robin Bouttell]].
*'''Titan Books ''End of the Road'' TPB:''' Galvatron, Grimlock, Bludgeon, Prowl and half of Unicron, by Andrew Wildman
*'''Titan Books ''End of the Road'' HC:''' Galvatron and generic Decepticons, by [[Bryan Hitch]], [[Andrew Currie]] & [[Chris Blythe]]
*'''''Classic Transformers'' Volume 6 TPB:''' A scrapbook of images from issues 76-80, all by Andrew Wildman and Stephen Baskerville
*'''IDW ''Regeneration One 100 Page Spectacular'' Cover A:''' Action Master Grimlock smashes
*'''IDW ''Regeneration One 100 Page Spectacular'' Cover B:''' Hi-Q writhes in pain with the memories of Optimus Prime, surrounded by (anti-clockwise from top) The Last Autobot, Grimlock, Prowl, Ratchet, Galvatron, Fortress Maximus, Shockwave, Megatron and Bludgeon

===Advertisements===
*None yet identified.

===Reprints===
*[[2002]] — ''[[Transformers: End of the Road]]''
*[[2010]] — ''[[Classic Transformers Volume 6]]''
*2010 — ''[[The Transformers: Best of Grimlock]]''
*[[2012]] — ''[[Transformers: Regeneration One 100-Page Spectacular]]''
*[[2014]] - ''[[The Transformers Classics Vol. 7]]''

[[Category:Marvel US issues]]
[[Category:Marvel UK issues]]

Still Life!

2014-09-20T00:03:20Z

YoungDoctor: /* Reprints */

{{Comicstory|seriesissue=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|''The Transformers'' (US)]] #76
|prev=On the Edge of Extinction!
|next=Exodus!
|seriesissue2=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel_UK|''The Transformers'' (UK)]] #323–324
|prev2=On the Edge of Extinction!
|next2=Exodus!
|title="Still Life!"
|image=MarvelUS-76.jpg
|caption=Stop breathing down my neck!
|publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]
|date=January [[1991]]
|coverdate=March 1991
|writer=[[Simon Furman]]
|penciler=[[Andrew Wildman]]
|inker=[[Stephen Baskerville]]
|colorist=[[Nelson Yomtov|Nel Yomtov]]
|letterer=[[Rick Parker]]
|editor=[[Rob Tokar]]
|continuity=[[Marvel Comics continuity]]
}}

'''As their world lies dying, the Transformers attempt to maintain peace between themselves.'''

==Synopsis==
With [[Unicron]] destroyed, a small group of [[Autobot]]s and [[Decepticon]]s gather around the shattered remains of [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]], somehow still clinging to life. As Prime gasps out his final words, his last request is that [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] make sure [[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] takes command of the Autobots in his absence.

Elsewhere on the planet, Optimus Prime's [[Nebulan]] partner [[Hi-Q]] is on the run, fleeing from the creatures who just devoured [[Runabout (G1)|Runabout]]. He thinks to himself that he needs to get back to Prime, tell him about the miraculous changes they both are going through, thanks to the [[Powermaster]] process.

At the new United [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertronian]] compound, Prowl gives his news to a less than enthusiastic Grimlock. When Grimlock moves to go about his business with little more than a word, Prowl grabs him and tries to drill home his new responsibilities. Grimlock shoots back, telling him that the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] has been stolen, complete with several deactivated Autobots who were never fully brought back by the [[Nucleon]]. Grimlock was planning to lead his [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]] on an expedition to track down and retrieve the lost ship. Prowl's not done, though. He reminds Grimlock that Optimus Prime upheld a code of ideals for the Autobots, including the notion that Autobots do not kill, unless as a last resort to save others. He makes Grimlock vow to carry on Prime's views.

As Grimlock and the Dinobots leave, Prowl receives some bad news from [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]]'s seismology report, while [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] and his lieutenant [[Krok (G1)|Krok]] agree to bide time and weigh their options before making any moves.

On the search for the Ark, [[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]] questions Grimlock, submitting that Prowl may have been right, that preserving the peace was more important than their current mission. Cynically, Grimlock informs him that the peace has no chance of lasting anyway. As he goes on, Grimlock's body suddenly seizes up completely, leaving him totally paralyzed. Just then, Hi-Q catches up with the Dinobots, and his hunters find him as well. The monsters surround the Dinobots, who are forced into battle instead of running away, in order to defend their helpless leader.

Meanwhile, at the stolen Ark, [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]] and [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] are attempting to enact repairs to the damaged ship. Starscream doesn't understand why it's necessary to repair the Ark, when they could easily hunt around and find another one. Shockwave explains to his partner that the Ark is still the best ship on Cybertron, and his calculations suggest they won't have time to hunt down and steal another ship. A shadowy observer silently agrees with his assessment.

Back at the battle, the Dinobots are having a rough time with the [[Demon]]s: they are incredibly resilient and continue to pop up by the dozen. As the Dinobots still refuse to abandon Grimlock, he silently laments that his rash use of Nucleon may leave them all frozen as he is... or worse. However, Hi-Q's Powermaster "energy vision" sees something else in Grimlock—a chrysalis of pure energy slowly building beneath his superstructure. Using his special abilities, Hi-Q manages to tap into and boost the process, pushing Grimlock's transformation to fruition in a matter of moments. In his new [[Action Master]] robot mode, Grimlock is now bursting with power. He single-handedly sends the devil-creatures packing, and then grabs one of the stragglers to beat him to death as revenge. Hi-Q stops him, however, speaking to Grimlock about the inner conflict in his circuits, and that he only truly wins a battle when he gives peace and chance, and stops himself from taking life needlessly.

As the Dinobots turn to go, they're treated to a pair of surprises. First, Grimlock reveals that with his new power comes the loss of his ability to transform. Then, Hi-Q makes the startling claim that he somehow '''is''' Optimus Prime.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters|c1=
*[[Cloudburst]] (3)
*[[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] (5)
*[[Hosehead (G1)|Hosehead]] (6)
*[[Kup (G1)|Kup]] (9)
*[[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (10)
*[[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] (11)
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] (12)
*[[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (13)
*[[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] (19)
*[[Rad]] (20)
*[[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] (21)
*[[Nightbeat (G1)|Nightbeat]] (22)
*[[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]] (24)
*[[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]] (25)
*[[Slag (G1)|Slag]] (26)
*[[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]] (27)
|c2=
*[[Apeface]] (1)
*[[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] (2)
*[[Bomb-Burst (G1)|Bomb-Burst]] (4)
*[[Runamuck (G1)|Runamuck]] (7)
*[[Darkwing (G1)|Darkwing]] (8)
*[[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] (14)
*[[Skullgrin]] (15)
*[[Krok (G1)|Krok]] (23)
*[[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] (28)
*[[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]] (29)
*[[Galvatron II|Galvatron]] (30)
|h3=[[Nebulan]]s
|c3=
*[[Hi-Q]] (17)
|c4=
*[[Unicron]] (16)
*[[Demon]]s (18)
}}

==Notes==
*The highly damaged Optimus Prime is in his super robot form, but there isn't much in the artwork to indicate he has a [[:Image:PeoplePower-reprogrammed.jpg|smaller robot]] inside.
*The demons had previously appeared in the UK comic stories "[[Underworld!]]", "[[Demons!]]", and "[[Dawn of Darkness]]".
*This is the second time that [[The many deaths of Optimus Prime|Prime has died]] in the [[Earth-91274|Marvel US continuity]].
*Bludgeon and Grimlock are officially identified as the new Decepticon and Autobot leaders.
*Grimlock's paralysis has been building since his exposure to Nucleon in US issue [[The Pri¢e of Life!|#70]], first with his leg in [[...All This and Civil War 2|#72]] and then his hand in [[The Void! (US)|#74]].
*''[[The Transformers Universe|Transformers Universe]]'' profiles for [[Grotusque]] and [[Horri-Bull (G1)|Horri-Bull]] are found after the main story.
*Optimus Prime's appearance in the US cover's corner box is finally updated from his [[The Transformers (issue)|original form]] to his Powermaster body... or, in this case, what's left of it (the artwork is, rather grotesquely, taken directly from the interior of this issue).

===Errors===
*In spite of having died by getting stepped on by Unicron while in his Pretender shell, [[Bomb-Burst (G1)|Bomb-Burst]] is seen wrecked in altmode here. (Keep in mind though that the robots are long established as able to work outside their shells). Regardless, he's still dead.
*Pages nine and twelve of UK issue #324 have their color palettes reversed.
*The [[Transformers Universe]] profile for Grotusque says that his first appearance is "right here", when he actually first appeared in [[Ring of Hate!|Headmasters #1]].

===Covers===
<gallery>
Image:MarvelUS-76.jpg|'''US issue #76''' - Oh Grimlock you cad!
Image:MarvelUK-323.jpg|'''UK issue #323''' - What Transformers needs is more watercolours...
Image:MarvelUK-324.jpg|'''UK issue #324''' - Grimlock came last in the Dance Dance Revolution championship.
Image:End of the road tpb cover.jpg|'''[[Titan Books]] ''End of the Road'' TPB'''
Image:Titan-EndOfTheRoadHC.jpg|'''Titan Books ''End of the Road'' HC'''
Image:Classic Transformers Vol6.jpg|'''[[IDW Publishing|IDW]] Classic Transformers Volume 6 TPB'''
Image:RG1 76-80 100pgSpectacular.jpg|'''IDW ''Regeneration One'' 100 Page Spectacular Cover A'''
Image:RG1 76-80 100pgSpectacular B.jpg|'''IDW ''Regeneration One'' 100 Page Spectacular Cover B'''
</gallery>

*'''US issue #76 cover:''' Frozen Grimlock, Swoop, Sludge and a Demon by [[Andrew Wildman]].
*'''UK issue #323 cover:''' Aftermath of Unicron's attack by Andy Wildman.
*'''UK issue #324 cover:''' recolored version of US cover by [[Robin Bouttell]].
*'''Titan Books ''End of the Road'' TPB:''' Galvatron, Grimlock, Bludgeon, Prowl and half of Unicron, by Andrew Wildman
*'''Titan Books ''End of the Road'' HC:''' Galvatron and generic Decepticons, by [[Bryan Hitch]], [[Andrew Currie]] & [[Chris Blythe]]
*'''''Classic Transformers'' Volume 6 TPB:''' A scrapbook of images from issues 76-80, all by Andrew Wildman and Stephen Baskerville
*'''IDW ''Regeneration One 100 Page Spectacular'' Cover A:''' Action Master Grimlock smashes
*'''IDW ''Regeneration One 100 Page Spectacular'' Cover B:''' Hi-Q writhes in pain with the memories of Optimus Prime, surrounded by (anti-clockwise from top) The Last Autobot, Grimlock, Prowl, Ratchet, Galvatron, Fortress Maximus, Shockwave, Megatron and Bludgeon

===Advertisements===
*None yet identified.

===Reprints===
*[[2002]] — ''[[Transformers: End of the Road]]''
*[[2010]] — ''[[Classic Transformers Volume 6]]''
*2010 — ''[[The Transformers: Best of Grimlock]]''
*[[2012]] — ''[[Transformers: Regeneration One 100-Page Spectacular]]''
*[[2014]] - ''[[The Transformers: Classics Volume 7]]''

[[Category:Marvel US issues]]
[[Category:Marvel UK issues]]

Firebug!

2014-09-04T03:46:43Z

YoungDoctor: /* Notes */

{{disambig3|Firebug}}
{{comicstory|seriesissue=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel UK|''The Transformers'' (UK)]] #188
|prev=Space Pirates!
|next=Dry Run!
|title="Firebug!"
|image=MarvelUK-188.jpg
|caption=...Oh no he's not!
|publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]
|date=[[October 15|15th October]] [[1988]]
|coverdate=[[October 22|22nd October]] 1988
|plot=[[Simon Furman]]
|script=[[Dan Abnett]]
|art=[[Jeff Anderson]]
|colour=[[Euan Peters]]
|letters=[[Tom Frame]]
|continuity=[[Marvel Comics continuity]]
}}
'''Inferno meets his match...'''

==Synopsis==
A meteorite hits the base of [[Mount St. Hilary]], containing a strange creature aboard it. The next day, an [[Autobot]] [[Ark shuttlecraft#"Dome"-type|shuttlecraft]] lands on the other side and its passengers disembark and activate the cloaking device. [[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]] reminds [[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]] and [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] that [[Emirate]] [[Xaaron]] wants a permanent reconnaissance base on [[Earth]] to increase their knowledge of the terrain. Inferno guesses that this is to prevent a repeat of the disaster when the [[Wrecker]]s attacked [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]]. Broadside is angry because the Wreckers didn't know where they'd arrive, but Sandstorm prevents a fight. He then notices a fire in the distance and transforms into his new buggy mode to check it out.

Sandstorm discovers an entire town ablaze. Changing to his helicopter mode he notices something in the shadows but it disappears before he can reach it. Broadside orders Sandstorm to return to base, but the latter argues that they must help the humans. Broadside reiterates that they must maintain non-intervention, but Inferno agrees with Sandstorm that they have a duty to protect all lifeforms. Broadside agrees to go but tells the others that if asked they are investigating a sighting of Galvatron.

Soon after arriving, Inferno and Broadside have the fire under control. But Broadside can't extinguish one section. Inferno soon recognises the creature at its centre—a [[Firebug (G1)|Firebug]]! The creature escapes as Inferno explains that it is from the planet [[Furnacia]], feeds on high temperatures and combusts matter. Most perished when their planet burnt itself out and the survivors landed on the ice world of [[Thessin]].

The three Autobots pursue the Firebug through the town and eventually corner it. Whilst the [[Triple Changer]]s block its escape with lasers, Inferno douses it with water. Broadside wants to kill the creature but Inferno reminds him they're not murderers. After checking the ship's files on the [[solar system]], Inferno comes up with an idea. The Firebug is placed in a message pod and dispatched to [[Mercury (planet)|Mercury]], where the creature can live happily in temperatures of over 400 degrees centigrade.

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
*[[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]] (2)
*[[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]] (3)
*[[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]] (4)
|c4=
*[[Firebug (G1)|Unnamed Firebug]] (1)
}}

==Notes==
*This is the first appearance of Inferno in the present-day timeline, discounting a possible cameo (or art error) in the flashback in "[[Decepticon Dam-Busters!]]" and an appearance in the annual story "[[Missing in Action]]", which is hard to place in continuity. His 2008 counterpart had previously appeared in "[[The Legacy of Unicron!]]".
*Inferno's previous possible 'cameo' has led to fan speculation that he has been an unseen character on Earth for the past few years and has been assigned as a liaison with the Wreckers. There is nothing in this story itself this that contradicts this theory. However, in [[Time Wars]] part 2, Prime briefs the Earth-bound Autobots about the Galvatron situation, including intel from the 'Cybertronian Autobot's Advance Surveillance Unit'. An asterix and footnote explains to the reader that this unit comprises Inferno, Sandstorm and Broadside suggesting that it is more likely that Inferno did indeed come with the two Wreckers from Cybertron and his earlier appearances were mistakes.
* Sandstorm claims that Xaaron had Earthen forms prepared for them despite having the same helicopter mode he used in [[Target: 2006]].
===Reprints===
*[[1991]] — ''[[Transformers Annual 1991]]''
*[[2004]] — ''[[Transformers: City of Fear]]''
*[[2008]] — ''[[The Transformers: Best of UK: Time Wars]]'' #2
*[[2009]] — ''[[The Transformers: Best of UK: Time Wars]]''

[[Category:Marvel UK Annual stories]]
[[Category:Marvel UK issues]]

Jhiaxus (G2)

2013-07-07T00:13:18Z

YoungDoctor: /* Regeneration One */

{{factions|cybEmpireG2|decepticon|unicron}}
{{featured}}
{{disambigr|Jhiaxus|the TransTech character|Jhiaxus (TransTech)}}

:''Jhiaxus is a Cybertronian - and occasional former [[Decepticon]] - from the [[Generation 1 continuity family]].''

[[File:Jhiaxusg2.jpg|300px|thumb|Seeker on steroids.]]
'''Jhiaxus''' is no ordinary Decepticon. He and his faction left Cybertron eons ago and formed the [[Cybertronian (faction)|Cybertronian Empire]] of [[Eco-structuring|cyberformed planets]]. He views the original Autobots and Decepticons as evolutionary throwbacks, simple animals, insults to his race's memory which must be wiped out. But his ice-cold demeanor of control and amoral objectivity is merely a facade. It is only a mask, a face he wears to forget the mad tyrant he once was. He has been repressing this side of himself, burying it, for millennia. Unfortunately, recent encounters with Autobots and Decepticons have been testing his resolve...

Jhiaxus is not one for improvisation. He has been denying his impulses for so long, it has weakened his ability to think on his feet in many situations. Once Jhiaxus has set a course of action, it is tough for him to diverge from his strategy.<ref name="UniProf">[[Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 1|Jhiaxus's ''Universe'' profile]]</ref>

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Marvel ''Generation 2'' comic====
{{bigquote|We had ''order''. Structure. A perfect, faultless mechanism that was destined to re-shape the galaxy. Then ''you'' came! Old, ''flawed''... an evolutionary stage we had risen far beyond. A reminder of every ''primal'' instinct we had ''buried''.|Jhiaxus doesn't like [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] very much|"[[A Rage in Heaven!]]"}}

[[File:G2issue5-PowerandtheGlory-BuddingSteps.jpg|left|thumb|250px|Whozh a baby? Whozh a baby? Ish it you? Yesh you is! Yesh you is!]]

Millions of years ago, some time after [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] and [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] left Cybertron and crashed on [[Earth]], Jhiaxus was born through the long-forgotten "budding" means of [[reproduction]]. {{storylink|The Power and the Glory}} At first a cruel and petty tyrant ruled by his irrational desires, Jhiaxus learned slowly to bury this part of himself beneath layers of icy control. {{storylink|Primal Fear!}} Tired of the [[Autobot]]/[[Decepticon]] conflict, Jhiaxus left with his budded brethren into space, determined to begin a new [[Cybertronian (faction)|Cybertronian Empire]] free of the war waged by those he deemed "evolutionary throwbacks". {{storylink|War Without End!}} He was anointed the rank [[Liege Centuro]] of this new Cybertronian faction by the [[Liege Maximo]], {{storylink|A Rage in Heaven!}} and Jhiaxus began to wipe out what he considered to be inferior life and terraform their conquered worlds.

[[File:Jhiaxuswarwithoutend.jpg|200px|thumb|Wonder where he keeps the remote.]]

A decade after Optimus Prime and Megatron's war had restarted on Earth, Prime and his Autobots found out about this empire while pursuing the remnants of [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]'s Decepticons across the universe. Quickly thereafter, Jhiaxus's ship, the ''[[Twilight (G2)|Twilight]]'', abducted them and delighted in telling Prime and [[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] that for his side of the universe, the war had been over for millions of years and that Prime and his adversaries were embarrassments to him. Jhiaxus hoped that Prime would see the error of his ways, but he escaped in a stolen ship with his fellow Autobots. However, Jhiaxus had launched a ship of his own to follow them. {{storylink|War Without End!}}

Jhiaxus traced the Autobots to the [[K'tord Nebula]], and his Cybertronians battled Prime's bitterly on the surface of one of its planets. [[Shadow parasite|Parasitic creatures]] on the planet began to feed on the hate and fury buried in the minds of both sides, which caused Jhiaxus to revert to the barbaric version of himself he thought he'd long buried. Despite Prime's own problems with the parasites' induced rage, he was able to convince Jhiaxus and their respective warriors to stop fighting and go their separate ways. {{storylink|Primal Fear!}} Jhiaxus retreated to his flagship, and thanked the [[Primus|maker]] that, as far as he knew, there were no Decepticons left of the original generation to cause him further conflict. Sadly, he was misinformed. {{storylink|Primal Fear!#"Old Evils"|Old Evils}}

[[File:Jhiaxusaltmodetotalwar.jpg|left|200px|thumb|Basically, Jhiaxus's limbs detach and his torso flies around.]]
When Grimlock and a bloodthirsty group of Autobots tried to sneak a [[Chaosmaster Bomb]] on board the ''Twilight'', Jhiaxus easily saw through their ruse. He shipped the survivors in a prison ship to be examined by the Liege Maximo, but the ship was intercepted by Optimus Prime. {{storylink|Devices and Desires! (Marvel)|Devices and Desires!}} Later, Jhiaxus made a visit to [[Outpost D-109]], a recently conquered planet the Cybertronians were busy [[eco-structuring]] into a Cybertron-like world. Though the process was ahead of schedule, Jhiaxus was still disappointed. The Autobots had mysteriously halted their attacks on his troops, and their absence worried him. {{storylink|The Power and the Glory}}

One of his teams crossed paths with the original-generation Decepticons, and the incident ended badly. Jhiaxus decided to make his move, and ordered a full-scale attack on [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]]'s [[Warworld]] near [[Tykos]]. This altercation resulted in casualties in Megatron's forces while Jhiaxus battled Megatron himself in orbit. Jhiaxus relished condescending to his opponent, an act reinforced by his superior might. He shot Megatron out of orbit, leaving him for dead on the moon's surface. {{storylink|New Dawn}} However, Megatron miraculously survived, and his Decepticons and the Autobots forged an uneasy alliance against the Cybertronians. Increasingly frustrated, he vowed to escalate his galactic efforts, ordering that every planet be stripped of life. He hoped to force the hand of the original generation Transformers and overwhelm them, a plan that nearly worked on [[Ethos]] against the Autobots until Decepticon reinforcements arrived. {{storylink|Escalation!}} Indeed, the battle there decimated [[Ethos raiding party|the best of Jhiaxus's forces]]. But Jhiaxus soon gained an unexpected advantage—[[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]] sold out the location of the original generation's base of operations in exchange for a high-ranking position. {{storylink|Swarm (issue)|Swarm}}

[[File:Jhiaxusyouhavedestroyedme.jpg|150px|thumb|What good is a phone call... if you're unable to speak?]]
Jhiaxus attacked the base on Earth. {{storylink|Swarm (issue)|Tales of Earth Part Six}} The headquarters itself was quickly destroyed, but Optimus and Megatron's troops fought back strongly and met the challenge equally. Jhiaxus wanted to end the conflict here and then, so he called for reinforcements from every corner of his empire. {{storylink|Total War!}} Adding insult to injury, Jhiaxus was informed that his troops had lost the Warworld to the backstabbing Starscream. Jhiaxus lost his composure, and when he tossed his subordinate, [[Rook (G2)|Rook]], in anger, Rook arranged a trip to the Liege Maximo. Jhiaxus returned to the ''Twilight'', and upon receiving a transmission from Optimus Prime on board the Warworld, he acted upon his anger by targeting a [[San Francisco|random spot on the Earth]] with nuclear weapons. Before Jhiaxus could order another shot, the ''Twilight'' was knocked away by a blast from the Warworld and the [[Swarm (G2)|Swarm]] arrived. {{storylink|Dark Shadows!}}

Despite [[Crushable Cybertronian soldier|his officers]]' pleas to withdraw, Jhiaxus's troops were ordered to stay their ground even as the Swarm ate its way through them effortlessly. Optimus Prime, ever trying to reach a solution, arrived on the ''Twilight'' to talk, but Jhiaxus would not have it. He threw Prime around, powered by his increasing rage, and blamed him for how his life, his empire, had disintegrated. Before he could strike the final blow, however, the Swarm broke through the bridge of the ''Twilight'', and Jhiaxus challenged it. Jhiaxus was consumed. {{storylink|A Rage in Heaven!}}
{{-}}
====Regeneration One====
{{noteRG1}}
An image of Jhiaxus could be seen from [[Zero Space]] along with many other sights from Cybertronian history. {{storylink|Counterpoint}}
He then appears in issue 91 speaking to [[Rook]].

===''Universe'' comic===
[[File:Jhiaxustfu.jpg|150px|thumb|"Nothing to fear but me myself."]]
[[Unicron]] abducted Jhiaxus's [[spark]] and stripped him of his rank and power. Though he once again wore the brand of an ordinary Decepticon, he still nursed a hatred towards Autobot and Decepticon alike. They were all, of course, unevolved, inferior throw-backs. This bias forced him to work alone.<ref name="UniProf" />

While still abducted by Unicron, Jhiaxus was kept locked inside one of the chambers within the [[Cauldron]] and periodically forced to combat other Transformers so that Unicron could feed on the loser's Spark. He was freed along with countless others when [[Optimus Primal]] orchestrated a prison break. {{storylink|Escape (Universe)|Escape}}

{{note|In ''Universe'' #2, Jhiaxus is portrayed in his original ''Generation 2'' body, but he is seen in his ''Robots in Disguise'' body during a flashback in the [[Escape (Universe)|following issue]]. It's possible that this was either a misunderstanding between two different artists, Jhiaxus morphed into a new body as he left the Cauldron (which is not impossible), or there were two Jhiaxuses (which is also not impossible).}}
{{-}}

===IDW Generation 1 continuity===
{{note|IDW's Jhiaxus has a very different origin than the original. Though he is still a high-ranking member of a long-lost race of Transformers, this Jhiaxus seems first and foremost a twisted scientist. [[Simon Furman]] has stated that Arcee, the combiners, and the [[Micromaster]]s are all attempts by him to force Transformer evolution.<ref>[http://simonfurman.wordpress.com/2007/12/12/another-quick-qa/ Simon Furman Q&A blog post]</ref>}}

[[File:Jhiaxusnemesisprimedevastation.jpg|left|250px|thumb|Yeeesss, maaaasssster!]]

Jhiaxus was [[Nova Prime]]'s chief theoretical strategist and pioneer of attempts to push forward the Transformer race, as well as a mentor to [[Shockwave (G1)/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Shockwave]]. {{storylink|Spotlight: Doubledealer}} Few knew that he was also completely without morals and not at all averse to perform horrible experiments on his fellow Cybertronians in the name of science. At one point he was behind the introduction of gender to the Cybertronian genome, produced by his tampering with the [[CNA]] of [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]]. This had the slight side effect of turning her into an insane murdering monster. {{storylink|Spotlight: Arcee}} He was also the creator of the [[vamparc ribbon]], a weapon that drained the lifeforce from its victims to use it as ammunition. {{storylink|Parasites}}

As part of Nova's inner circle, Jhiaxus was present when the Prime located [[Crystal City]] and ushered Cybertron into an age of prosperity. On Nova's orders, he pioneered [[Combiner|gestalt]] technology, bonding [[Pretender Monster|six Transformers]] into [[Monstructor (G1)|one combined entity]] to create an ultimate Transformer—resulting in another insane murdering monster that had to be taken down by [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]]. {{storylink|Primus: All Good Things}} Jhiaxus left Cybertron as part of the crew aboard the original [[Ark (G1)|''Ark'' spacecraft]] before the failure that was Monstructor had a chance to disgrace him. His student, Shockwave, remained behind to continue his master's work and clear his name, later naming the [[Jhiaxian Academy of Advanced Technology]] after him. {{storylink|Shockwaves}} When the ''Ark'' was lost in the [[Benzuli Expanse]], Jhiaxus and the rest of the crew werestuck in the [[Dead Universe]] (only able to leave for brief periods before dying). He became a confidant for the rechristened ''Nemesis'' Prime and plotted on a plan to merge the Dead Universe with the regular one, allowing them to go home ''and'' gain power over the combined reality. {{storylink|Devastation issue 6|Devastation #6}}

Jhiaxus began prepping [[Nega-Core]]s on three worlds, which would enable this universal "[[Expansion]]". {{storylink|Spotlight: Arcee}} He also set up an underground base on [[Gorlam Prime]], where a large portal to/from the Dead Universe resided; he then began poking Gorlam Prime's evolution with a stick, accelerating the development to an advanced technological race with the end result of turning them into [[Micromaster|tiny Transformers]]. These were the template for what all life would be turned into to survive the Expansion, and the first few batches served as guards and general minions. (Shockingly, while murderous and with monstrous origins, they ''weren't'' insane.) {{storylink|Spotlight: Hardhead}}

On the eve of the Expansion, Jhiaxus told Nemesis Prime that he suspected [[Galvatron (G1)/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Galvatron]] of having his own agenda. The point would become moot, however, once their plans unfurled. {{storylink|Devastation issue 6|Devastation #6}} After [[Cyclonus (G1)/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Cyclonus]] secured the Nega-Core and activated [[Thunderwing (G1)|its guardian]], Jhiaxus initiated the Expansion with Nemesis Prime and the rest of the [[Dead Universe]] crew. {{storylink|Spotlight: Cyclonus}}

Jhiaxus was in mental control of [[Thunderwing (G1)|the]] [[Monstructor (G1)|three]] [[Sixshot|guardians]] of the Nega-Cores, {{storylink|Spotlight: Doubledealer}} and also took mental control over Nightbeat and sent in hordes of Micromasters when the Autobot, alongside [[Hardhead (G1)|Hardhead]], began investigating on Gorlam Prime. Unfortunately, his intricate and long-plotted strategy was undermined by Hardhead's "shoot people in the head" plan. The Autobot then leapt into the Dead Universe portal. {{storylink|Spotlight: Hardhead}}

He also monitored the Autobots' efforts to withstand their attacks. When he noticed [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] preparing to disrupt his mental control over the guardians, he took mental control of [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] to defend the project. {{storylink|Spotlight: Doubledealer}}

[[File:SpotlightSideswipe Jhiaxus deathbecomeshim.jpg|300px|thumb|What did I do to deserve this?? ...Oh right.]]

Unfortunately, as Jetfire pointed out, the Autobots were quickly destroying all his hard work, and his attention was divided. So much so that he not only was frozen and distracted from offing Jetfire, he didn't realise someone was in his control room until they sliced off his arm. Turning round, he was faced with a gleeful Arcee.

Making a run for it, and using his Micromasters to keep Arcee busy, he made his escape through the portal... or he would have if an undead Hardhead hadn't popped up, slowing Jhiaxus down enough for Arcee to stab him and cut off his head. But, in the realm between the living and dead universes, Jhiaxus was practically immortal. Which meant Arcee could keep killing him for as long as she liked. {{storylink|Spotlight: Sideswipe}}

Helpless, Jhiaxus spent several years being repeatedly killed by Arcee over and over again, until one day when the portal to the Dead Universe suddenly began to act strangely and lure people into mindlessly wandering into it. The entire Micromaster population of Gorlam Prime disappeared into the Dead Universe, and though Jhiaxus was also tempted, he was seemingly too damaged to follow them. Arcee and Hardhead subsequently left him to investigate the matter. {{storylink|Heart of Darkness issue 2|Heart of Darkness #2}} Eventually, his broken body was discovered by Galvatron, who had earlier betrayed Nemesis Prime and stolen the [[Darkness (G1)|Heart of Darkness]] from him. Jhiaxus was restored by the power of the Darkness, though he was disoriented and couldn't explain where everyone on the planet had gone to. He led Galvatron and his men to the Dead Universe portal, which had now turned from a pool into a large sphere. {{storylink|Heart of Darkness issue 1|Heart of Darkness #1}}

[[File:Jhiaxus Arcee HeartofDarkness2.jpg|left|280px|thumb|I'm sure I had my dignity with me when I came in here.]]
At the portal's location, Arcee and Hardhead returned and attacked them. Filled with terror upon seeing his tormentor again, Jhiaxus tried to fight back against her, with little success. Galvatron managed to chase Arcee off and read Hardhead's memories to learn what happened on Gorlam Prime, eventually learning of the "[[D-Void]]", a major threat to all Transformers. He subsequently took Jhiaxus with him to raise an army capable of opposing this entity. {{storylink|Heart of Darkness issue 2|Heart of Darkness #2}}

Jhiaxus quickly got to work rebuilding the [[space bridge]] network, based out of Gorlam Prime, allowing Galvatron to travel the galaxy and recruit soldiers for his army. {{storylink|Heart of Darkness issue 3|Heart of Darkness #3}} Later, after Galvatron's ship was infested by [[zombie]]s and crashed on [[Earth]], Jhiaxus put up a space bridge portal that allowed the crew to leave. {{storylink|The Transformers: Infestation issue 2|The Transformers: Infestation #2}} Jhiaxus found the zombie virus very intriguing, especially its ability to infect both organic and robotic lifeforms, but Galvatron dismissed it as irrelevant and inefficient. {{storylink|Heart of Darkness issue 4|Heart of Darkness #4}}

After using the [[Kimia Facility]] to blow a large hole in Cybertron's surface, Galvatron took Jhiaxus with him to the blast crater. {{storylink|Chaos Part Two: Numbers}} Their goal was to reach and destroy the planet's core, though they were briefly hindered by [[Optimus Prime (G1)/IDW Generation 1 continuity|Optimus Prime]] on the way. {{storylink|Chaos Part Three: Kings}} When they located [[Vector Sigma]], Galvatron inserted the Heart of Darkness into it in the hopes that this would stop the D-Void. Then Optimus Prime caught up and fired on them, and Jhiaxus wasn't seen again during the events that followed. {{storylink|Chaos Part Four: Genesis}}

[[File:Jhiaxus Syndromica1.jpg|250px|thumb|'''''"INSANITY IS NOT A WEAKNESS!!"''''']]
Rendered catatonic by the reformatting of Cybertron, Jhiaxus was taken captive by Hardhead, [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] and [[Garnak]] and imprisoned in their ship, to be kept floating in space forever to protect Cybertron from his evil. Some time into his imprisonment, Jhiaxus was reawakened by a signal from [[Arduria]], which seemed to drive him into a frenzy, screaming the words "Pax" and "Prime". Believing him to be referring to Orion Pax—the once and former Optimus Prime—Hardhead's team joined up with Orion to investigate Arduria, but they soon discovered they had walked into a Decepticon trap when they were attacked by Jhiaxus's old creation, Monstructor. While they were occupied, Bludgeon liberated Jhiaxus, and the villains set off together to track down the worlds which had been the subjects of the [[Regenesis]] program created by Jhiaxus's old student, Shockwave. {{storylink|Syndromica (1)}}

At [[LV-117]], Jhiaxus and Bludgeon tried to take control of [[Ore-1]], a Regenesis ore capable of traveling through time. He met Orion Pax again in an era close to the planet's destruction, and explained that his screams had had nothing to do with him, but were referring to a vision he had during the reformatting: a vision of a future where [[Pax Cybertronia|''Pax'' Cybertronia]] happened on Gorlam ''Prime''. Before Orion could stop him, he took the Regenesis control device and left on a time-traveling starship sent to the planet by Shockwave, intending to use the Ore-1 to bring back Gorlam Prime's past, prosperous self. {{storylink|Syndromica (2)}}
{{--}}

===Theft of the Golden Disk===
A statue of Jhiaxus was kept in the [[Cybertropolis Maximal Data Archive]]. {{storylink|Theft of the Golden Disk}}

===''Wings Universe''===
{{wingsnote}}
[[File:FlashForward1-Jhiaxus.jpg|left|thumb|300px|He needs a little Earth globe to crush.]]
After having been absent from [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] for a very long time, Jhiaxus made a secret return. He enlisted the [[Battlecharger]]s to fill him in on what he had missed, culminating in the events of the [[Battle of Autobot City]] and [[The Rebirth]]. With [[Galvatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Galvatron]] out of the picture, and everyone else unawares, it was the perfect time to rebuild the [[Cybertronian Empire]], with himself in control! {{storylink|A Flash Forward}}

[[File:FlashForward3-Nightracer.jpg|thumb|200px|Jhiaxus is so evil he made us hafta split up a bunch of pages.]]

He teamed up with [[Sky-Byte (G2)|Sky-Byte]], who provided him with [[forestonite]], and [[Clench (G1)|Clench]], who supplied him with the [[Firecon]]s and blueprints stolen from [[Quantum Laboratories]]. He also sent the Battlechargers to find some [[personality component]]s. {{storylink|A Flash Forward, Part 2}} They returned with a bonus surprise—an amnesiac [[Side Burn (G1)|Side Burn]]. They next headed for [[Nebulos]], where Jhiaxus had the Battlechargers kidnap [[Hi-Q]]. With the aid of the [[Nebulan|Nebulon]] scientist, Jhiaxus was able to create a "second generation" of Cybertronians. {{storylink|A Flash Forward, Part 3}} These newly created Cybertronians were trained at a secret facility on the formerly barren planet [[Qre]].

Jhiaxus left a deliberate trail to lure the Autobots to his training grounds so he could capture them, incapacitate them and force them to listen as he waxed philosophical. {{storylink|A Flash Forward, Part 4}} He introduced [[Pyro (G1)|Pyro]] and the other Autobots to his clones. When the [[Sideswipe (G2)|Sideswipe clone]] apparently woke early, Jhiaxus showed him off as well, however it was actually the original [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]] who then freed Pyro. {{storylink|A Flash Forward, Part 5}} Jhiaxus squared off against Pyro, who was reluctant to attack due to the fact Jhiaxus had Hi-Q concealed in his chest cavity. Unfortunately [[Fizzle|Blaze]] was an expert marksman and shot Jhiaxus in the face, allowing the Autobots to make off with the captive and blow up the base. Jhiaxus and Sky-Byte later watched from a rocky outcrop as the Autobots prepared to leave, and Jhiaxus reflected that for his second generation to succeed, the first generation would have to be wiped out. {{storylink|A Flash Forward, Part 6}}
{{-}}

==Toys==
===Robots in Disguise===
* '''Jhiaxus''' (Deluxe, 2003)

[[File:RIDtoy-Jhiaxus.jpg|300px|thumb|Surprise, I'm me!]]
: Jhiaxus is a [[redeco]] of the deluxe-sized [[Jetstorm (BM)|Jetstorm]] toy in orange and gray. His jet-mode cockpit has a spring-loaded extension, giving him a bird-like head in this form that is articulated at the neck to "search" for targets. Both jet and robot modes feature spring-loaded "energy blast" missiles. He also has an alternate robot mode, which folds his legs into a "flight cone" and reveals jet thrusters. Jhiaxus was available [[exclusive]]ly at [[KB Toys]] stores.

:Although most previous versions of the mold have the wingtips swept forward in vehicle mode, Jhiaxus was packaged and depicted in his instructions with the wingtips swept back. His toy art and instructions also show the robot-mode wingtips swept forward, as shown here; this contrasts with the ''Universe'' art above.

: This mold was also used for [[Aero Drone|Sonic Attack Jet]], ''[[Transformers: Robots in Disguise (toyline)|Robots in Disguise]]'' [[Storm Jet (RID)|Storm Jet]], and ''[[Transformers: Universe (2003 toyline)|Universe]]'' [[Skywarp (G1)/toys|Skywarp]].

::*''[http://tfu.info/2003/Decepticon/Jhiaxus/jhiaxus.htm More information on Jhiaxus at TFU.info.]''

{{--}}

==Notes==
* Jhiaxus's name is a pun on "gee, axe us", a phrase which expressed writer [[Simon Furman]]'s dread of the [[Transformers: Generation 2 (Marvel)|''Generation 2'' comic]]'s cancellation by [[Marvel Comics|Marvel]].
* ''Generation 2'' Jhiaxus's robot mode design seems to be based loosely on the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]]. He keeps the air-duct boobs, the cockpit torso, the ear-vents, the wing placement, one shoulder-mounted jet engine (including [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]'s stickers), and a nosecone on the back of the head.
* Among the many, many toy ideas [[Glen Hallit]] suggested was a [[Redeco|repaint]] of ''[[Transformers: Go-Bots (franchise)|Go-Bots]]'' [[Aero-Bot]] as Jhiaxus. It was to be distributed as the Dinner Exclusive at [[OTFCC 2003]], but as with most of Hallit's toy proposals, it was not produced.<ref>[http://www.alteredstatesmag.com/hce_2003/3h_tidbits.php 3H Collector's Event: Productions/BotCon Tidbits at ASM]</ref>
* In IDW continuity, Jhiaxus's obsession with improving the Cybertronian form has led to him altering even his own body. This has resulted in a chassis that strongly resembles [[Starscream (Movie)|an entirely different Starscream]].
* Jhiaxus's name is apparently very difficult for IDW's writers to spell. Known variations to date include "[[Spotlight: Metroplex|Jiaxus]]", "[[The Transformers: Infestation issue 2|Jihaxus]]", and "[[Parasites|Jihauxus]]".

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[http://www.seibertron.com/database/character.php?version_id=2962 ''Robots in Disguise'' Jhiaxus's profile transcribed on Seibertron.com]
*[http://s90690880.onlinehome.us/jhiaxus/uscomics/jhiaxus.htm Jhiaxus at the Obscure Transformers Website.]

[[Category:Cybertronians]]
[[Category:Decepticon leaders]]
[[Category:Generation 1 Decepticons]]
[[Category:KB Toys exclusives]]
[[Category:Minions of Unicron]]
[[Category:Robots in Disguise Decepticons]]
[[Category:Scientists]]
[[Category:Universe Decepticons]]
[[Category:Wings Universe Decepticons]]
[[Category:Dead Universe]]

Target: 2006

2012-10-15T18:46:38Z

YoungDoctor: /* Trade paperbacks */

{{featured}}
{{comicstory
|seriesissue=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Marvel UK|''The Transformers'' (UK)]] #78–88
|prev=In the National Interest
|title="Target: 2006"
|next=Cybertron: The Middle Years!
|image=MarvelUK-088.jpg
|caption=They have better things to do tonight than die!
|publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]
|coverdate=[[September 13|13th September]] – [[November 22|22nd November]] [[1986]]
|script=[[Simon Furman]]
|art=[[Jeff Anderson]] (78-79, 81, 87), [[Ron Smith]] (82), [[Geoff Senior]] (83-84, 86)
|pencils=[[Will Simpson]] (80, 85, 88)
|inks=[[Tim Perkins]] (80, 85, 88)
|colours=[[Tony Jozwiak]] (78-81, 85, 87), [[John Burns]] (82), [[Gina Hart]] (84,86,88)
|letters=[[Richard Starkings]] (78,82-85,88), [[Annie Halfacree]] (79-81,86-87)
|editor=[[Ian Rimmer]]
|continuity=[[Marvel Comics continuity]]
}}
'''Galvatron, Cyclonus and Scourge travel back in time with a plan to destroy Unicron.'''

==Synopsis==
===Prologue===
[[Image:Primewoods.jpg|thumb|left|150px|PRIME '''''SMASH!''''']]
[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] is hunting the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobot]]s and is growing frustrated. So frustrated, in fact, that he is indiscriminately knocking over trees and wrecking woodland habitats. [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] manages to get through to Prime about the damage he is causing, and also questions whether the Dinobots are worth the trouble they cause. Optimus wonders if Prowl might be right, but doesn't want the [[Autobot]] forces on [[Earth]] to be any more depleted than they have to be.

Meanwhile, below the surface of [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], [[Emirate]] [[Xaaron]] is running late for a briefing with [[Impactor (G1)|Impactor]] about the forthcoming [[Operation: Volcano]] and whether [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] will be a part of it.

On the surface city of [[Polyhex]], phase one of Operation: Volcano is going into effect as [[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]] tortures a treacherous Autobot into revealing Emirate Xaaron's whereabouts, before killing said traitor. Unknown to the [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticon]], the information is false, having been ''deliberately'' leaked by [[Roadbuster (G1)|Roadbuster]].

Back on [[Earth]], Optimus Prime is briefing the Autobots on the reasons they fight and the importance of protecting the [[human]] race from the [[Decepticon]] menace when he, [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] and Prowl are wracked by pain and suddenly disappear. The remaining Earthbound Autobots are distraught.

On Cybertron, an Autobot "priest" is tending the chamber of the [[Matrix Flame]], which, with its connection to Optimus Prime severed, gutters and dies. The priest does not take this well.

[[Image:Target 2006 Prologue Galvatron, Scourge & Cyclonus.jpg|thumb|right|150px|It took 1.21 jiggawatts to get this image.]]
At a cereal farm in [[Oregon]], the weather takes a turn for the worse as three shadowy figures arrive, trying to figure out where, and more importantly, [[Time travel|when]] they are. Soon, the locals are investigating the noise made by the figures arrival. After one of the figures discovers that it's [[1986]], he is revealed as [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]]!

===Apocalypse Then...Now!===
[[Image:Target 2006 Part 1 Scourge & Cyclonus.jpg|thumb|150px|left|Catch that pigeon NOW.]]
[[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] and [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] (who has Galvatron on board) are flying over [[Wyoming]] and testing out the destructive capabilities of their [[New body|new forms]] by destroying first a locomotive and then a [[Joe's Garage|gas station]]. The Decepticons discuss how easy it would be to conquer the planet with their upgraded weaponry until Galvatron reminds them that their purpose in the past is to prepare for the future. Galvatron orders them to seek out [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]].

Down at ground level, [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] is leading a team of Autobots in a reconnaissance mission, hoping to discover what happened to Optimus, Prowl, and Ratchet by spying on Megatron, who is accompanied by the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicon]]s. As the Autobots continue to watch, Galvatron, Scourge, and Cyclonus arrive at the [[Wyoming base|Decepticon base]], transforming to robot mode and introducing themselves to Megatron as fellow Decepticons. Ever suspicious, Megatron has [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] scan the new arrivals and confirm that they are, indeed, Decepticons but something seems to be blocking any deeper scan.

[[Image:Target 2006 Megatron fusions Galvatron.jpg|thumb|left|150px|I don't think so.]]
A wary Megatron asks if Galvatron works for [[Straxus (G1)|Straxus]], and is surprised when Galvatron claims to be the [[Decepticon leader]] of [[2006]]. Galvatron asks Megatron to put aside his considerable doubts, and surrender command of the Constructicons (temporarily) to him. Galvatron asks Megatron to trust in him, and Megatron replies in traditional style by blasting Galvatron in the face with his [[fusion cannon]]. The future Decepticon shrugs off the shot and his lieutenants aim their weaponry at Megatron. Galvatron orders Scourge and Cyclonus ''not'' to fire as Megatron can not be allowed to die.

Instead, Scourge and Cyclonus bull-rush Megatron and Soundwave respectively rendering them unconscious before Galvatron uses his [[particle cannon]] to bury the prone Decepticons under a rock pile. At that point, Galvatron's leadership is confirmed when [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] perches on his shoulder. Galvatron orders the Constructicons to accompany him.

[[Image:Target 2006 Ultra Magnus splash.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Deal with ''this''.]]
Witnessing all this, the Autobots split up, with Jazz and [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] following Galvatron's party, [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] observing Megatron's group and [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] reporting back to the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]].

On Cybertron, Impactor is furious that Ultra Magnus is no longer part of Operation: Volcano, and pleads his case to Emirate Xaaron. Xaaron states that the extinguished Matrix Flame has priority over Volcano, and informs Impactor to take it up with Ultra Magnus himself. Magnus declares that he must travel to Earth.

===Construction Time Again!===
[[Image:Target 2006 Galvagun.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Anything [[Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (film)|you]] can do, I can do better.]]

On Earth, specifically in Northern [[Oregon]], Jazz and Hound are spying on the Constructicons. Galvatron is leading the Constructicons as they build a massive and presumably powerful device of some sort, utilising enough solar panels to "level a small planet". This leads the Autobots to speculate that it might be some sort of power source for future Cybertron, but if so, why build it in the past?

One thing the Autobots ''are'' sure of is that if they don't find out more about the structure, it'll be the death of all of them. As Hound and Jazz turn and head back to the Ark, Cyclonus attacks, seriously wounding Jazz, and gloating over an obviously upset Hound.

Elsewhere, Ultra Magnus arrives on Earth, somewhat disorientated after travelling via [[Spanner (G1)|Spanner]]'s unstable prototype [[space bridge]]. As Magnus fights off the after-effects of travel, he recalls Impactor's fury at the disruption of Volcano and notes that he only has five [[units of time|solar cycles]] to get to the bottom of the Matrix Flame mystery and set things right on Earth.

[[Image:Target 2006 Hound vs wood.jpg|thumb|right|150px|For when lumberjacks are just too slow.]]
For Hound, it seems that time has already run out as Cyclonus tosses him around like a rag doll. Cyclonus gloats then when [[Life Spark]] was as injured as Hound currently is, Unicron sculpted him into the powerful form of Cyclonus but for the Autobot, no such opportunity will arise. As Cyclonus brings his oxidating laser to bear for the coup de grace, it is shot out of his hand by the imposing Ultra Magnus.

[[Image:Target 2006 Creepy Galvatron Prone Jazz.jpg|thumb|left|80px|Ooh 'eck!]]
Ultra Magnus is surprised that Cyclonus appears to recognise him, leading the Decepticon to realise that this must be the Ultra Magnus of 1986, and that the Autobot's presence on Earth needs to be reported to Galvatron. Magnus believes that it will take some time for that report to reach Galvatron, but Cyclonus disagrees, tossing Hound into Magnus to punctuate the point before flying off.

Understanding that Hound is too gravely injured to report to the Ark under his own power, Ultra Magnus transforms to his car carrier mode and transports the stricken Autobot back to base. Upon hearing Cyclonus's report that Ultra Magnus is unexpectedly present on Earth, Galvatron realises that his Decepticons are going to have to improvise. The future Decepticon decides that the best course of action would be to goad the Autobots into a hasty, ill-planned attack so that defeat will demoralise them. Furthermore, Jazz will be used as bait.

Back at the Ark, [[Grapple]] is repairing Hound, who is briefing the Autobots on the threat of Galvatron. [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] wants to investigate immediately but is stopped by Ultra Magnus, who insists that Jetfire and the other Autobots need to assist in the quest to find out what's happened to Optimus Prime before concerning themselves about Galvatron. Jetfire is skeptical, and points out that much of Magnus's story doesn't quite add up.

The bickering Autobots are interrupted by Smokescreen who displays a communication from Galvatron on the view screen. The future Decepticon gloats mockingly at the Autobots as he displays his [[Variable voltage harness|brutally tortured]] prisoner, Jazz.

===Defeat!===
[[Image: Target 2006 Ironhide digs.jpg|100px|right|thumb|Ironhide gets his rocks off.]]
Ironhide is digging through rubble, pondering the nature of defeat. He notes that some defeats can be overcome easily, but some cannot. Ironhide thinks back to the Autobots recent battle with Galvatron.

[[Image:Target 2006 Doubting Magnus.jpg|thumb|left|150px|He really can't deal with it right now.]]
''On the Ark, a distracted Ironhide's reverie is interrupted by Jetfire who, together with Smokescreen, are preparing to go kick Galvatron's butt back to 2006 in order to rescue Jazz. Hound disagrees, saying that without extra Autobot power and as Galvatron is clearly out of their league.''

''A less-than-trusting Jetfire realises that they are referring to Ultra Magnus and tells Hound and Ironhide to ask the newly-arrived Autobot to accompany them. Ultra Magnus backs up that lack of trust by refusing, stating that his priority has to be finding Optimus Prime and the [[Matrix of Leadership|Creation Matrix]]. Magnus begs for forgiveness from the remaining Autobots, who for their part would rather be Earth-bound if Magnus's lack of compassion is standard Cybertronian issue.''

''The remaining Autobots go to attack anyway, and are almost immediately ambushed by Scourge and Cyclonus. Mirage is the first casualty to the airborne Decepticons, and the Autobots scatter to avoid being blasted by Scourge and Cyclonus's weaponry. Jetfire takes to the skies, colliding with Cyclonus and forcing the Decepticon to the ground, trailing smoke.''

''The other Autobots are blasting Scourge, but the future Decepticon's skiff form proves to be too manoeuvrable and they are unable to hit him. Scourge indulges the Autobots by landing and transforming into robot mode, punching out [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] and [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] as he comes into land. The Autobots respond by surrounding Scourge and clobbering him into unconsciousness.''

[[Image:2006-1.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Galvatron indulges in his passion for S&M.]]
''Jetfire pulls Ironhide, Smokescreen and [[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]] away from the melee and go after Galvatron. The future Decepticon leader seems completely unbothered by their arrival, and is happy that some Autobots got past his lieutenants. Galvatron reveals that the defeats of Scourge and Cyclonus were a mere ruse and that the future Decepticons are unharmed, as are the Constructicons. None of the Decepticons lift a finger to defend Galvatron, who is unperturbed by the Autobot fire-power arrayed against him. The Autobots blast Galvatron, but, unharmed, he merely laughs at their efforts before savagely beating the Autobots down himself.''

''Galvatron leaves the helpless Autobots alive, deeming them not even worth killing.''

Ironhide finishes digging through the rubble, revealing Soundwave and Megatron. Back at the Ark, somebody punches their way out of a stasis pod whilst Grapple is distracted.

===Wreck and Rule!===
[[Image:Impactorfearless.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Dance into the fire.]]
On Cybertron, Impactor's Autobot group, now dubbed "The [[Wrecker]]s" attack Decepticons. Shrapnel is taken out by Impactor's harpoon gun and subsequently used as a weapon to take care of [[Octane]]. [[Rack'n'Ruin]] deal with [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] while the [[Jumpstarter]]s , together with Roadbuster, finish off [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]], [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]], [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]], and [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]].

As Impactor notes, the attack is a success, except without Ultra Magnus's presence to guard their flank, the Wreckers would be quickly overwhelmed by Decepticon reinforcements were this the actual Operation: Volcano instead of a practice run with [[facsimile construct]]s standing in for the Decepticons.

[[Image:Jukebot.jpg|thumb|right|150px|FREEBIRD!]]
Impactor once again goes over the painstaking preparations for their mission, and how Emirate Xaaron's sending of Ultra Magnus to Earth has put the mission in jeopardy. Without Magnus's presence, Operation: Volcano is as good as dead, a fact which [[Twin Twist]] affirms, stating that it's "not their fight anymore". Impactor goes to report the abortion of the operation to Xaaron and tells the rest of the Wreckers to relax.

Twin Twist, [[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]], and Roadbuster follow their instructions, stopping off at [[Maccadam's Old Oil House]], a black market fuel source that doesn't concern itself with petty details like the customer's faction. The Wreckers aren't in good spirits, as while they realise that calling off Volcano was the logical course of action, they still feel bad about backing out. The depressing mood is broken when an angry Decepticon, [[Fang]], bursts into the Oil House and brutally attacks [[Piano Transformer guy|the entertainment]] as Fang didn't like the music being played. Twin Twist's mech fluid is boiling and he wants to do something about Fang, but Roadbuster cautions that this "isn't their fight".

[[Image:Target 2006 Whirl Roadbuster Do It.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Let's fall in love.]]
In the meantime, Impactor is explaining the decision to call off Volcano to Xaaron. Xaaron agrees that if Magnus is unable to return on time, then withdrawing would be the right thing to do, and might lead to an Autobot victory later on. The Emirate muses about what might happen if Volcano is aborted and Ultra Magnus does return to Cybertron on time. Impactor grudgingly takes the hint.

Back at Maccadam's, Fang beats the fluid out of the Piano Transformer and asks if anybody else wants to disagree with him. Twin Twist takes Fang up on his offer, quickly rendering Fang an ex-Decepticon. Defending an innocent Transformer from unprovoked Decepticon attacks acts as an epiphany for the Wreckers, who agree that they must continue to fight, no matter what.

Once the Wreckers reassemble at their base, Impactor announces a change in their plans. Operation: Volcano is a 'go' once more then Impactor asks for volunteers to participate. The Wreckers unanimously vote to re-join the Operation, and begin another combat rehearsal.

===The Devil You Know...===
[[Image:Target 2006 Starscream breaks free.jpg|thumb|150px|lright|The Birdbot of Arkatraz.]]
[[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]] has awoken aboard the Ark, and has also freed [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] and [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]]. Starscream cannot accept the sight he is seeing, that of Megatron commanding the Autobots.

Megatron tells the Autobots that they need to follow his instructions as closely as possible. Jetfire is in disagreement, claiming that Megatron was rescued by Ironhide merely to advise, not to command. Megatron treats this statement with contempt, pointing out how ''spectacularly'' unsuccessful Jetfire's last attempt at commanding an assault on Galvatron was. Ironhide interjects that Megatron wasn't exactly a resounding success against Galvatron either, and would still be lying under a rock pile if not for the Autobot.

Ironhide concedes that a mutual alliance with Megatron's forces is the Autobots' best bet against Galvatron, and calls for a vote on whether they should follow Megaton's instructions, at least in the short term. The vote carries.

Starscream can't help but smirk as he learns of these events, particularly at the prospect of allying with a being powerful enough to force the Autobots and Decepticons together. Overcome with the idea of power, Starscream leaves to seek out Galvatron.

[[Image:Target 2006 Magnus Big head.jpg|thumb|left|150px|It's like an orange on a toothpick.]]
At the Ark, Ultra Magnus cannot believe the Autobots are willingly going to follow the orders of a monster such as Megatron and berates Hound rather fiercely about committing to rescuing Jazz over seeking out Optimus Prime. Hound comments that they have plenty of time to carry out both objectives. Magnus strenuously disagrees, showing him the countdown to Operation: Volcano and explaining how Magnus's time on Earth is strictly limited by his mission on Cybertron. Hound wonders if that mission can be postponed, and Ultra Magnus flatly states that it can't, as the bait has already been set. Hound understands, but knows he still has to accompany the others to rescue Jazz. Magnus agrees but cautions to watch out for Megatron, who is just as insidiously evil as Galvatron.

Over at the [[Portland Iron and Steel Foundry]] central storehouse, Scourge is struggling with ennui, reduced to carrying the raw materials for Galvatron's weapon and with the [[human]]s not being a match for his considerable fighting prowess, Galvatron's lieutenant is itching to fight. He detects something and brings his weapon to bear, blasting [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] who is trying to sneak in alongside Brawn and Tracks.

[[Image:Scourge marvel uk 83.jpg|thumb|150px|right|Even Scourge cannot stop the metal.]]
The sneak attack surprises Scourge, who thought that once the Autobots were beaten, they wouldn't recover. The future Decepticon is nonplussed, though, as a mere three Autobots are no match for his fire-power. Unfortunately for Scourge, five more Autobots arrive from another part of the building and pen him in amongst the maze-like storage areas.

Things get worse for Scourge as his weapon is blasted out of his hand. A second blast hits Scourge, enraging him to the point that he smashes into a pile of steel, burying Smokescreen and Ironhide. Realising that discretion is the better part of valour, Scourge tries to contact Galvatron and escape, but his signal is jammed.

Scourge's mood is momentarily improved when he catches [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]] unaware and impales the Autobot with a thrown steel plate. With the need to transform into his jet mode becoming more and more pressing, Scourge smashes through an exterior wall. Before he can transform, though, Megatron blasts Scourge with the ol' [[fusion cannon]], temporarily incapacitating the future Decepticon.

Elsewhere, Jazz is struggling with the pain of his torture, but fights through it enough to claim that Galvatron is just as bad as Megatron. Galvatron is amused by Jazz's claim, but makes one small correction. Galvatron is not "as bad as Megatron," Galvatron IS Megatron!

===Trios!===
[[Image:Triplechangerstarget2006.jpg|thumb|left|250px|Oh, ''bugger''.]]
On Cybertron, Impactor is trapped in an [[inhibitor claw]] and is getting his aft handed to him by the [[Triple Changer]] team of [[Springer (G1)|Springer]], [[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]], and [[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]]. Unable to transform, Impactor has to rely on his close combat skills to defeat the trio, but it is found wanting. Down but not out, Impactor knows that the stakes are higher than just his life, and if Operation: Volcano has any chance of succeeding, it will be because he fights back. Impactor charges Springer, knocking him to the ground. Reacting instantaneously, Sandstorm draws a bead on Impactor with his sandblaster gun. Springer chides Sandstorm, stating that they don't need to use their guns. Instead, Springer uses his rocket pack to leap over Impactor and backhands the Wrecker to the ground.

Impactor refuses to beg for his life. Springer doesn't seem to care, dismissing Sandstorm and Broadside who transform to their aerial forms and fly off. Springer also transforms to his helicopter mode and tells his fellow Triple Changers that they'll meet at [[Debris]] before flying away. This shocks Impactor as only the Wreckers are supposed to know about the Debris base. The departing Springer tosses a [[communicube]] to Impactor, much to the Wrecker's confusion. The communication turns out to be from Emirate Xaaron who reveals that the Triple Changers are Autobots who Xaaron has drafted in to replace Ultra Magnus on Operation: Volcano. He admits they're not up to Magnus's standard but points out that the beating they just handed out to Impactor proves their worth. A frustrated but convinced Impactor crushes the communicube.

Back on Earth, Galvatron is dispelling Jazz's disbelief about Galvatron being a future version of Megatron. Jazz goads Galvatron into explaining further. [[The Transformers: The Movie|Twenty years from now]], Megatron and Optimus Prime will fight at the very spot Galvatron is occupying now. Megatron will ultimately fall. Though wounded, Megatron would have continued to function if the ever-treacherous Starscream hadn't booted him out into space.

[[Image:Target 2006 Unicron.jpg|thumb|right|200px|A sinister plot device looms.]]
In space, Megatron's broken body is discovered by [[Unicron]], a planet-sized living being. Unicron offers Megatron a simple choice: Serve him or die. Being pragmatic, Megatron opts for the first option. Unicron repairs and upgrades Megatron into his new form: that of Galvatron. Still being a Decepticon leader at heart, Galvatron tries to rebel from Unicron's enslavement. Galvatron is instantly (and painfully) punished. Understanding that he needs to be free of Unicron's influence, Galvatron time travelled to 1986 where the Chaos Bringer could not follow and set about building a weapon powerful enough to destroy Unicron which Galvatron plans to fire the moment he returns to 2006.

Cyclonus returns from the steel foundry and reports that there was no sign of Scourge, so he assumes that Scourge is either dead or captive. Cyclonus did come across Starscream, who claimed to have information to share with the winning side in return for their alliance. Having no patience for the [[Seeker (body-type)|Decepticon jet]]'s schemes, Cyclonus instead beat the information out of him. Megatron is currently leading the Autobots. Jazz is amused by the irony of Megatron fighting Megatron and begins to laugh before an upset Galvatron knocks the Autobot unconscious.

[[Image:Target2006-BlurrHotRodKup.jpg|thumb|200px|left|It's just a jump to the left...]]
In the Wyoming desert, [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]], Frenzy, and Thundercracker are confused about why Megatron, Soundwave and the Constructicons are absent. Fenzy and Thundercracker don't recall anything after their earlier beating from [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]], which Shockwave despairs at. Meanwhile, in the far-flung future of 2006, [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]], [[Kup (G1)|Kup]], and [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] prepare to travel back to 1986. As the Autobot trio use the mass displacement [[Time-jump mechanism|time travel machine]] to arrive in 1986, Frenzy, Shockwave, and Thundercracker are spirited away in a manner similar to what happened to Optimus Prime, Prowl and Ratchet.

As the future Autobots arrive in the '80s, a malevolent subconscious laughter is heard. The laughter echoes across the coal mine, the surface of Cybertron and even reaches Galvatron, who is suddenly afraid...

===Prisoners of War!===
[[Image:Target 2006 Nemesis.jpg|thumb|right|150px|''Nemesis'' no mo'.]]
In, the inky void of space, the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]'' floats above the Earth, protected from detection from highly sophisticated shielding systems. A lance of energy shoots from the Earth and utterly obliterates the Decepticon starship.

Watching the orbital destruction on a monitor, Galvatron is very pleased with himself. The test firing of his new super weapon was a complete success. Now all the future Decepticon leader has to do is wait for the weapon to recharge, return to the 2006 from whence he came and use the weapon against Unicron and Galvatron will be his own master.

The self-congratulating is interrupted by Cyclonus, reporting that it is time for the prisoner-exchange meeting.with the Autobots. A meeting which the new recruit, Starscream is to play a pivotal role. Starscream agrees, but wants to know the reasoning behind destroying a perfectly good starship like the ''Nemesis''. What if the Decepticons wish to leave Earth some day? Galvatron scoffs that there are far better methods of transportation now available.

Noting that Starscream seems rather ill at ease in their presence, Galvatron reassures the jet not to be too concerned about violence-first approach to problems now that Galvatron is in full control of the situation. Starscream transforms and flies off to perform his duties. This gives Cyclonus an opportunity to ask Galvatron why they need Starscream at all. The future Decepticon leader explains that Cyclonus is missing the delicious irony in Starscream using Galvatron to ensure his future when Galvatron is the reason Starscream has ''no'' future. The Decepticons allow themselves some healthy maniacal laughter.

At the Ark, Ultra Magnus is contemplating his failure. With a mere twenty-two hours before the launch of Operation: Volcano, he is no closer to locating Optimus Prime than he was when he was first sent to Earth. Magnus's reverie is interrupted by the arrival of Kup, Blurr, and a genuflecting Hot Rod, who introduce themselves, and then go to leave, explaining that they have to talk to Optimus Prime about Galvatron. Ultra Magnus stops them right there and insists that they compare notes.

[[Image:Target 2006 fatally slow.jpg|thumb|left|150px|This is bad comedy!]]
In Northern Oregon, it is time for the prisoner exchange. Galvatron insists that the Autobots turn Scourge back over to him before he releases Jazz. Jetfire agrees but reminds Galvatron that the [[anti-grav manacles]] restraining Scourge are programmed to fry the Decepticon should Galvatron break his pledge and bring harm to Jazz.

Jetfire claims that it could easily have been Galvatron in the manacles, as they beat Scourge easily. The future Decepticon leader disagrees about the ease of his lieutenant's capture. The prisoners are exchanged, and the Autobots now have a badly-wounded but still living Jazz back in their hands. Galvatron asks after Megatron.

At the site of Galvatron's weapon, Megatron is being choked by Cyclonus, who points out that Megatron was foolish to come snooping around unprotected. Megatron claims it is Cyclonus who is the foolish one and that he is not unprotected just as Soundwave sneaks up on Cyclonus, allowing Megatron to incapacitate the future Decepticon. Knowing that it won't take long for Galvatron to deal with the Autobots, and orders to Soundwave to round up the Constructicons. Before he can acknowledge the order, Soundwave is blasted into unconsciousness. Megatron is slow to react and is also rendered unconscious thanks to Starscream and his [[null-ray]].

[[Image:MagnusVGalv2006.jpg|thumb|right|140px|Come and 'ave a go if you think you're 'ard enough.]]
At the Ark, Kup is explaining the principles of time travel using [[mass substitution]] to Ultra Magnus. After realising that Optimus Prime's disappearance must be due to Galvatron's time travel, Magnus berates himself for his idiocy in avoiding the future Decepticons when they were the key to his Prime hunt and charges off to rectify his mistake, ignoring the remainder of Kup's explanation.

Back at the prisoner exchange rendezvous, the Autobots are confused. If Galvatron knew about Megatron, why bother with the exchange at all? Galvatron explains that he has need of Scourge, and feels that the Autobots are in need of a lesson. Using a remote control, the future Decepticon activates Jazz and sends him to attack against his Autobot comrades. Unwilling to attack their cohort, the Autobot group are soon rendered unconscious and Jazz is deactivated once more.

Shortly thereafter, Galvatron visits the site of his weapon, where Starscream is poised to fatally shoot Megatron. Galvatron prevents Starscream from committing the act, and punishes the Seeker for disobeying a direct order to leave Megatron alive in true Decepticon style. Starscream gets punched out. Gloating at the ease in which all his foes are falling to him, Galvatron asks who can truly stand against him. Enter Ultra Magnus...

===You Haveta Ask?!===
[[Image:Target 2006 Galvatron catapult.jpg|thumb|left|Like a [[Furmanism|vast, predatory bird]].]]
Galvatron is perched on top of Ultra Magnus's car carrier mode, and is trying to destroy the powerful Autobot. Ultra Magnus is trying to shake off the enraged Decepticon and finally has to resort to the drastic measure of speeding over an incomplete highway overpass and slamming on the brakes hard. Galvatron's momentum sends the future Decepticon leader tumbling off the edge of the overpass and into the ground below, temporarily knocking the fight out of him. Ultra Magnus wonders how the fight got this complex.

[[Image:Target 2006 Part Eight Galvatron.jpg|thumb|right|[[Superman]]!]]
''Earlier, Magnus had confronted Galvatron and offered the Decepticon a simple choice: immediately return to his own time by choice, or Ultra Magnus would force him to, in pieces of necessary. Galvatron reacted in his typical manner, by firing his particle beam cannon. However the shot missed and grazed the edge of Galvatron's super weapon, prompting Galvatron to have to fight Magnus using only his bare hands.''

''Ultra Magnus is able to fend off the initial furious assault from Galvatron, and is able to weather most of the subsequent attacks although the powerful Autobot is taking a lot of damage. Magnus tries to keep Galvatron enraged and not thinking clearly with incessant quips. As Galvatron rants and raves about his Unicron-given indestructibility, Ultra Magnus picks up a message from Kup on his internal communications sensors.'' [[Image:Galvatrong1.jpg|thumb|left|The scariest knee in the Solar System.]] ''Apparently, Kup, Blurr, and Hot Rod have a plan that will send Galvatron back to 2006, and all Magnus has to do is keep the near-indestructible warmonger busy for an hour or two. After a few more blows are exchanged, Ultra Magnus dazzles and disorientates Galvatron using his powerful headlights and drives off. Galvatron scrabbles for a handhold and climbs to the roof of Magnus' trailer.''

Back to the present, Ultra Magnus is happy that he's been able to occupy Galvatron's attention for the length of time that he has, and hopes it's been enough for Kup and company to enact their plan. Before Magnus can check on Kup et al., the overpass he is standing on is blasted away by Galvatron, sending the Autobot hurtling to the ground. Once landed, Ultra Magnus is met by Galvatron's laser cannon mode, which proceeds to blast the Autobot all over the place. In a last, desperate gambit, Ultra Magnus tosses a fuel tanker in the firing line of Galvatron's barrel, causing a massive fire to erupt. The two Transformers continue to fight until a victor steps out of the conflagration—Galvatron!

===Back to the Future!===
[[Image:Target 2006 repaint.jpg|thumb|right|They stole the idea from [[Hasbro]].]]
Hot Rod, Kup, and Blurr are laying the groundwork to their plan. First, they [[repaint|paint]] [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] to look like Starscream, then they set up explosives all around Galvatron's super weapon. After that, the future Autobots hide the real Starscream and render both Scourge and Cyclonus unconscious. The preparation complete, the Autobts go to their observation area.

Galvatron is dragging Ultra Magnus by the neck to his weapon site so that the Autobot can witness Galvatron's final triumph. When Galvatron discovers that his lieutenants have been recently damaged to ensure unconsciousness, he at first suspects Megatron and Soundwave, but finds them just as deactivated as before. Galvatron then, understandably, assumes that this was some treachery on the part of Starscream, just as the Autobot trio had intended. The Autobots prepare to attack Galvatron, but are unable to get a clear shot as Ultra Magnus has stepped into the firing line. Magnus is determined to do what he can to get Optimus Prime back and still participate in Operation: Volcano, which is kicking off in under an hour.

[[Image:Galvatron V Magnus UK87.jpg|thumb|left|Don't stop til you get enough!]]
Not too far away, the Autobots are recovery from their attack at the hands of a remote-controlled Jazz. Smokescreen is determined to take the fight to Galvatron one more time, despite the results from the last few such assaults, as unchecked Galvatron could arrive at any point in time and use his weaponry to stand as an unchallenged ruler.

Ultra Magnus continues to battle Galvatron, simply refusing to give up. Eventually, Magnus is thrown by Galvatron, giving Hot Rod's group a clear bead on Galvatron, which is instantly disrupted by the arrival of Smokescreen, Jetfire, and their group, who are defending Magnus by forcing Galvatron to go through them first. Kup, being practical, realises that going up against Galvatron is likely to mean death for these Autobots, so he goes ahead and detonates the explosives anyway, hoping that the Autobots will have the sense to get clear. The chain reaction of the explosives cause the power source of Galavtron's weapon to detonate, obliterating the weapon completely. As he is being buried by falling shrapnel, Galvatron howls with rage at being denied his victory this late in the game.

[[Image:Target 2006 fake Starscream dies.jpg|thumb|right|He done blowed up real good.]]
Minutes later, Galvatron bursts from the wreckage, demanding to know who has the nerve to dare attack him. Skywarp-as-Starscream claims the credit, thanks to some remote control manipulation from the future Autobots. Overcome with rage, Galvatron fires at "Starscream", killing him. Once the red mist clears, Galvatron realises that he will not kill Starscream until 2006, and so, he must be in a parallel dimension to the one he time jumped from initially and thus his actions here will have no bearing on the future, or on his enslavement to Unicron. Taking the setback in his stride, Galvatron uses a [[Time-jump trigger device|hand-held device]] to transport himself, Scourge and Cyclonus back to 2006 whilst the future Autobots consider what to do with Starscream.

===Aftermath!===
Unicron is surveying the remain of Galvatron's weapon, and is happy to see that his puppet, Galvatron couldn't escape the Chaos Bringer's control so easily, although the ingenuity Galvatron's trip to the past did surprise Unicron. Unicron's influence is such that he was able to subtly guide Hot Rod, Blurr, and Kup in their successful plan to thwart Galvatron. Unicron also plants the suggestion to one day build [[Autobot City]] on the site of Galvatron's weapon complex. The future Autobots return to the future.

[[Image:Target 2006 Magnus too late for Volcano.jpg|thumb|200px|left|I trust I am not too early.]]
After Starscream is stuffed back into cold storage, Jetfire and Smokescreen are thanking a magnanimous Ultra Magnus on his role in saving both Earth and Cybertron. At the mention of Cyberton, Magnus has a small conniption as he now knows that Operation: Volcano must have already begun—without him!

On Cybertron, Emirate Xaaron is at the [[Imperial Amphitheatre]] giving a speech to twenty-two [[Autobot resistance chief]]s, who, in reality, are expendable facsimile constructs and part of the complicated trap that is Operation: Volcano. After an Insecticon-sized signal is detected by Impactor and the Wreckers, they know phase one of Volcano has been a success. The Decepticons have swallowed the bait. Roadbuster, though, isn't happy. He's worried about the chance of failure, especially as while powerful, the Triple Changers are not a match for Ultra Magnus. Impactor observes that if Magnus is returning to Cybertron to participate in Volcano, his time is extremely limited.

Back on Earth, Laserbeak cuts free Soundwave and Megatron, the latter of whom is thirsting for revenge. Ultra Magnus returns to Cybertron rather than meeting with Optimus Prime, and hopes that one day, Magnus and Prime can fight together side by side, a notion Jetfire agrees with.

[[Image:Dirge macabre marvel uk 88.jpg|thumb|right|Anti-climax personified.]]
Back on Cybertron, the [[Ten Deadliest Killers]] gather. They include the Insecticons, Thrust, Blitzwing, Octane and a tagging-along thug by the name of [[Macabre]]. Unlike his fellow Decepticons, Macabre doesn't seek to interrogate Emirate Xaaron, merely to assassinate him. Impactor gives the signal: "Wreck and Rule!" However, the signal is superfluous as [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] interrupts Dirge with a communicube containing a message from Megatron—the Decepticons must cease all operations in [[Polyhex]] and have the space bridge working well enough to transport the Insecticons to Earth within two cycles, with no questioning of orders.

Impactor steps to the dais and informs Xaaron that the Decepticons have turned back. Uncertain as to the reason, the Wrecker speculates that the Decepticons must have discovered that it was a trap, and so all the preparation work for Operation: Volcano was wasted. Macabre, however, didn't turn back with the other Decepticons, and is determined to go down in history as the Decepticon that killed Xaaron, so he fires his massive studded gun at the Autobot dignitary. Unfortunately for Macabre, Impactor spots the weapon and is able to take the impact himself, dying.

[[Image:Target 2006 Prime triumphant.jpg|thumb|left|...most of the time.]]
Macabre steps out of the shadows, bewailing his lost opportunity to finish off Xaaron and is blown to smithereens by the Wreckers' combined fire-power. Xaaron is upset about Impactor's impending death, but Impactor always knew that death was a possibility and nominates Springer for his replacement as Wreckers commander.

On Earth, Optimus Prime is speechifying at the Ark. He talks about the severe injuries that Jazz, Trailbreaker, and Grapple have suffered, and the perhaps even more debilitating mental injuries the other Autobots have acquired having faced total defeat. Prime states that no matter what sufferings they go through in their battles, the Autobots will prevail.
{{--}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] (1)
* [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] (2)
* [[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] (3)
* [[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]] (4)
* [[Slag (G1)|Slag]] (5)
* [[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]] (6)
* [[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]] (7)
* [[Xaaron]] (12)
* [[Skater]] (13)
* [[Impactor (G1)|Impactor]] (14)
* [[Autobot traitor]] (16)
* [[Roadbuster (G1)|Roadbuster]] (17)
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] (18)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (19)
* [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] (20)
* [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (21)
* [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] (22)
* [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] (23)
* [[Gears (G1)|Gears]] (26)
* [[Matrix Flame priest]] (27)
* [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] (31)
* [[Whirl (G1)|Whirl]] (39)
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] (40)
* [[Grapple]] (42)
* [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] (43)
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]] (44)
* [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]] (45)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (46)
* [[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]] (47)
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] (48)
* [[Topspin (G1)|Topspin]] (54)
* [[Rack'n'Ruin]] (55)
* [[Twin Twist]] (59)
* [[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]] (64)
* [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] (65)
* [[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]] (66)
* [[Kup (G1)|Kup]] (69)
* [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] (70)
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] (71)
|c2=
* [[Shrapnel (G1)|Shrapnel]] (15)
* [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]] (24)
* [[Starscream (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Starscream]] (25)
* [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] (28)
* [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] (29)
* [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] (30)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (32)
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (33)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (34)
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (35)
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (36)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (37)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (38)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (41)
* [[Fang]] (61)
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] (62)
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] (63)
* [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] (68)
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] (72)
* [[Kickback (G1)|Kickback]] (74)
* [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] (75)
* [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]] (76)
* [[Octane]] (77)
* [[Macabre]] (78)
* [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]] (79)
* [[Bombshell (G1)|Bombshell]] (80)
* [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] (81)
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] (82)
|c3=
* [[Joy Meadows]] (8)
* [[Rick (Marvel)|Rick]] (9)
* [[Tony (G1)|Tony]] (10)
|c4=
* [[Centurion (Marvel)|Centurion]] (11)
* [[Piano Transformer guy]] (60)
* [[Unicron]] (67)
|h5='''[[Facsimile construct]]s'''|c5=
* Dirge (49)
* Kickback (50)
* Thrust (51)
* Octane (52)
* Shrapnel (53)
* Bombshell (56)
* Blitzwing (57)
* Ramjet (58)
* [[Autobot resistance chief]]s (73)
}}

==Notes==
*This is the epic Transformers story that everyone remembers from the UK comics. Events in this story cause ramifications over the next 150 issues.
*[[Ladybird Books]] would borrow the premise of this story for their 1986 books.
*The Movie was originally planned to take place in 2006 but was changed to 2005 very late in production by which time "Target: 2006" had already been given a title. As a result, all of the UK comics future stories were set twenty years in the future of the 'real' year.
*Galvatron time jumps just at the point in the Movie after he says "Decepticons, to Earth."
*According to Galvatron in issue #78, Earth has a weather control system as of 1995. Our Earth is clearly behind schedule.
*This story has it that Unicron's physical form ''can'' be destroyed by weapons technology (albeit really powerful weapons) and not just the Matrix—Unicron himself refers to the cannon being able to destroy him. The idea of Unicron being defeatable by Transformer weaponry has never turned up again.
*The character designs for Galvatron, Cyclonus and Scourge in issue #78 are based on the toys rather than the Movie look as the issue was designed before the artist got to see the Movie designs.
**The early parts of the story also use a different colour scheme for Cyclonus including a mainly silver head that was also seen on a prototype shown in the [[Toy Fair 1986]] catalogue. His colours in later parts are closer to the released toy.
*For this story and all future appearances Galvatron would appear in his grey and purple toy colour scheme rather than the Movie's predominantly purple colour.
*Simon Furman reused issue #78's sequence with Emirate Xaaron and captions about the Autobot movement going literally underground almost verbatim when he took over the US strip some years later.
*The drawing of Galvatron on the cover of issue #87 is a slightly altered tracing of his [[character model]].
*The fate of Optimus Prime and the other Transformers who disappear is revealed in #100's "[[Distant Thunder!]]"
*In terms of story chronology, this is the fourth UK "future" story centering on the [[The Transformers: The Movie|movie]] cast. It's preceded by the Shockwave segment of "[[Aspects of Evil!]]". The next story, chronologically, is "[[Wanted: Galvatron — Dead or Alive!]]" and the subsequent titles.
*A hardback version of ''[[Transformers: Target: 2006]]'' with an exclusive cover was made available at the Transforce 2002 convention in the UK. However, the convention version was misprinted, with the final eight pages of the story appearing in reverse order. Titan offered a free replacement, but many fans kept the original—partially because of the novelty, but mostly because they had just got it signed by [[Simon Furman]].
*Parts 5 and 6 were reprinted as a single comic book issue as a pack-in (erroneously) included with [[Transformers: Universe (2008 franchise)|''Universe'']] [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] vs. [[Springer (G1)|Springer]]. (It was supposed to be packed in with the [[Roadbuster (G1)|Roadbuster]] vs. [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] set, which was "Target: 2006"-themed.) This printing altered two uses of the word "damn" to "darn", a word more friendly to American children.

===Errors===
* In #81, Ironhide is seen kneeling next to an unconcious Megatron and Soundwave. Whereas the flashback to this scene in #83 has Megatron busting out of the rubble during Ironhide's rescue attempt and strangling him.
*It is implied that Galvatron builds his weapon on the site of the future [[Autobot City]] so that when the weapon fires in 2006 it will destroy Autobot City ''and'' Unicron. He states it will be "hidden underground", but it's not mentioned ''how'' it'll get underground—we could be charitable and assume there is a way, but ''why'' would the Autobots build their city where they ''know'' a slag-off great cannon was buried?
*On page 5 of issue #81, Jetfire's backpack suddenly disappears for a single frame.
*On the first and last pages of issue #82, the [[Octane]] facsimile construct is mis-colored as [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]].
*The Autobots do not use [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]]. This would normally be an item of interest and not an error, except that we are reminded that Omega Supreme exists, that he is powerful enough to kill lots of Decepticons, and Smokescreen ''actually says'' "Now there's a thought! Why not sic Omega on them?" (referring to the Constructicons, Megatron, Soundwave and Laserbeak when it is assumed they are involved in the disappearance of Prime, Prowl and Ratchet) in Part 1. No reason is ever given why they don't use him against Galvatron and he is not shown in any scenes in the entire story.
*Part 4 has the Wreckers training against nine facsimile constructs that represent the "deadliest killers". Then, the final part establishes Operation: Volcano will kill the ''ten'' deadliest killers—while the art only shows ''nine'' of them ([[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] turns up but doesn't seem to have been expected by the others). Did the tenth just decide to have a lie-in?

===Back-up stories===
'''Issue #78:'''
*Hercules — "Whom the Gods Would Destroy!" Part 1
*[[Robo-Capers]]

'''Issue #79:'''
*Hercules — "Whom the Gods Would Destroy!" Part 2
*Robo-Capers

'''Issue #80:'''
*Hercules — "Whom the Gods Would Destroy!" Part 3
*Robo-Capers

'''Issue #81:'''
*Hercules — "Whom the Gods Would Destroy!" Part 4
*Robo-Capers

'''Issue #82:'''
*Hercules — "...Not Just Another Galactus Story!" Part 1
*Robo-Capers

'''Issue #83:'''
*[[Cybertron: The Middle Years!]]
*Hercules — "...Not Just Another Galactus Story!" Part 2
*Robo-Capers

'''Issue #84:'''
*Hercules — "...Not Just Another Galactus Story!" Part 3
*Robo-Capers

'''Issue #85:'''
*Hercules — "...Not Just Another Galactus Story!" Part 4
*Robo-Capers

'''Issue #86:'''
*Spitfire and the Troubleshooters — "Beginnings" Part 1
*Robo-Capers

'''Issue #87:'''
*Spitfire and the Troubleshooters — "Beginnings" Part 2
*Robo-Capers

'''Issue #88:'''
*Spitfire and the Troubleshooters — "Beginnings" Part 3
*Robo-Capers

===Covers (34)===
====Marvel originals====
*'''UK issue #78 cover:''' Prowl, Ratchet, and Optimus Prime disappearing into limbo, by [[Alister Pearson]].
*'''UK issue #79 cover:''' Galvatron and Ultra Magnus, by [[John Higgins]].
*'''UK issue #80 cover:''' Ultra Magnus arrives, by [[John Stokes]].
*'''UK issue #81 cover:''' Galvatron stands over vanquished Autobots, by [[Will Simpson]].
<center><gallery>
Image:MarvelUK-078.jpg|'''UK issue #78'''
Image:MarvelUK-079.jpg|'''UK issue #79'''
Image:MarvelUK-080.jpg|'''UK issue #80'''
Image:MarvelUK-081.jpg|'''UK issue #81'''
</gallery></center>
{{-}}

*'''UK issue #82 cover:''' the [[Wrecker|Wreckers]], by [[Phil Gascoine]].
*'''UK issue #83 cover:''' Scourge being blasted, by [[Robin Smith]].
*'''UK issue #84 cover:''' Galvatron and Unicron by Phil Gascoine.
*'''UK issue #85 cover:''' Jazz is possessed by Galvatron, by Robin Smith.
<center><gallery>
Image:MarvelUK-082.jpg|'''UK issue #82'''
Image:Image-MarvelUK-083.jpg|'''UK issue #83'''
Image:MarvelUK-084.jpg|'''UK issue #84'''
Image:MarvelUK-085.jpg|'''UK issue #85'''
</gallery></center>
{{-}}

*'''UK issue #86 cover:''' Ultra Magnus fighting Galvatron, by Robin Smith.
*'''UK issue #87 cover:''' Galvatron poses by his weapon, by Phil Gascoine.
*'''UK issue #88 cover:''' the Wreckers, by [[Geoff Senior]].
<center><gallery>
Image:MarvelUK-086.jpg|'''UK issue #86'''
Image:MarvelUK-087.jpg|'''UK issue #87'''
Image:MarvelUK-088.jpg|'''UK issue #88'''
</gallery></center>
{{-}}

====Collected Comics reprints====
*'''Collected Comics #15 cover:''' Reuse of issue #79 cover by [[John Higgins]].
<center><gallery>
Image:Tfcolcom15.jpg|'''Collected Comics #15'''
</gallery></center>

====IDW reprints====
{{Note|[[Rob Ruffolo]] is incorrectly credited with colouring the covers for these reprints.}}

*'''IDW issue #1 cover A:''' Galvatron, Scourge, and Cyclonus arrive in 1986, art by [[Nick Roche]], colors by [[Josh Burcham]].
*'''IDW issue #1 cover B:''' Galvatron, Scourge, and Cyclonus arrive in 1986, by [[Jeff Anderson]].
*'''IDW issue #1 Retail Incentive cover A:''' sketch of cover A, by Nick Roche.
*'''IDW issue #1 Retail Incentive cover B:''' panels of UK issue #78, by Jeff Anderson.
<center><gallery>
Image:IDWTarget2006 1A.jpg|'''IDW issue #1 A'''
Image:IDWTarget2006 1B.jpg|'''IDW issue #1 B'''
Image:IDWTarget2006 1RIA.jpg|'''IDW issue #1 RI-A'''
Image:IDWTarget2006 1RIB.jpg|'''IDW issue #1 RI-B'''
</gallery></center>
{{-}}

*'''IDW issue #2 cover A:''' Cyclonus and Ultra Magnus fight by Hound's prone body, by Nick Roche, colors by [[Liam Shalloo]].
*'''IDW issue #2 cover B:''' Galvatron's ultimate weapon, by Will Simpson colors by [[Tony Jozwiak]].
*'''IDW issue #2 Retail Incentive cover A:''' sketch of cover A, by Nick Roche.
*'''IDW issue #2 Retail Incentive cover B:''' panels from UK issue #81, by Jeff Anderson.
<center><gallery>
Image:IDWTarget2006 2A.jpg|'''IDW issue #2 A'''
Image:IDWTarget2006 2B.jpg|'''IDW issue #2 B'''
Image:IDWTarget2006 2RIA.jpg|'''IDW issue #2 RI-A'''
Image:IDWTarget2006 2RIB.jpg|'''IDW issue #2 RI-B'''
</gallery></center>
{{-}}

*'''IDW issue #3 cover A:''' the Wreckers, art by Nick Roche, colors by Liam Shalloo.
*'''IDW issue #3 cover B:''' Wreck and Rule!, by [[Ron Smith]].
*'''IDW issue #3 Retail Incentive cover A:''' sketch of cover A, by Nick Roche.
*'''IDW issue #3 Retail Incentive cover B:''' panels from UK issue #82, by Ron Smith.
<center><gallery>
Image:IDWTarget2006 3A.jpg|'''IDW issue #3 A'''
Image:IDWTarget2006 3B.jpg|'''IDW issue #3 B'''
Image:IDWTarget2006 3RIA.jpg|'''IDW issue #3 RI-A'''
Image:IDWTarget2006 3RIB.jpg|'''IDW issue #3 RI-B'''
</gallery></center>
{{-}}

*'''IDW issue #4 cover A:''' Brawn choked by a zombie-controlled Jazz, by Nick Roche, colors by Liam Shalloo.
*'''IDW issue #4 cover B:''' Galvatron riding Ultra Magnus, by Geoff Senior.
*'''IDW issue #4 Retail Incentive cover A:''' sketch of cover A, by Nick Roche.
*'''IDW issue #4 Retail Incentive cover B:''' panels from UK issue #86, by Will Simpson.
<center><gallery>
Image:IDWTarget2006 4A.jpg|'''IDW issue #4 A'''
Image:IDWTarget2006 4B.jpg|'''IDW issue #4 B'''
Image:IDWTarget2006 4RIA.jpg|'''IDW issue #4 RI-A'''
Image:IDWTarget2006 4RIB.jpg|'''IDW issue #4 RI-B'''
</gallery></center>
{{-}}

*'''IDW issue #5 cover A:''' Ultra Magnus versus Galvatron, art by Nick Roche, colors by Josh Burcham.
*'''IDW issue #5 cover B:''' Starscream is obliterated, by Jeff Anderson, colors by Tony Jozwiak.
*'''IDW issue #5 Retail Incentive cover A:''' sketch of cover A, by Nick Roche.
*'''IDW issue #5 Retail Incentive cover B:''' panels from UK issue #88 by Will Simpson.
<center><gallery>
Image:IDWTarget2006 5A.jpg|'''IDW issue #5 A'''
Image:IDWTarget2006 5B.jpg|'''IDW issue #5 B'''
Image:IDWTarget2006 5RIA.jpg|'''IDW issue #5 RI-A'''
Image:IDWTarget2006 5RIB.jpg|'''IDW issue #5 RI-B'''
</gallery></center>
{{-}}

====Trade paperbacks====
*'''Titan TPB cover:''' Galvatron in shadow, by Geoff Senior.
*'''Transforce Titan hardcover:''' Galvatron shoots at Ultra Magnus by [[Lee Sullivan]].
*'''IDW TPB cover:''' reuse of IDW issue #5 cover A.
*'''''The Transformers Classics UK Volume 3:''''' [[Impactor (G1)|Impactor]], [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] vs [[Guardian (Marvel)|Guardian]], [[Straxus (G1)|Straxus]]'s head, [[Xaaron]], [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] riding [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] and [[Outback]] by [[Andrew Wildman]].
<center><gallery>
Image:TitanTarget2006tpb.jpg|'''Titan TPB'''
Image:TransforceTitanTarget2006hc.jpg|'''Transforce Titan HC'''
Image:IDWTarget2006tpb.jpg|'''IDW TPB'''
Image:Classicuk3.jpg|'''''The Transformers Classics UK Volume 3'''''
</gallery></center>

===Reprints===
*[[1990]] — ''[[Transformers Collected Comics]]'' 15 (prologue, parts 1 and 2)
*[[2002]] — ''[[Transformers: Target: 2006]]''
*[[2007]] — ''[[The Transformers: Target: 2006]]'' #1–5
*[[2007]] — ''[[The Transformers: The Best of Simon Furman]]'' (parts 3 and 5)
*[[2008]] — ''[[The Transformers: Target: 2006]]''
*[[2012]] — ''[[The Transformers Classics UK Volume 3]]''

[[Category:Marvel UK issues]]
[[Category:Pack-in material]]