Character model - Revision history

BerylRoll at 15:33, 13 February 2026

2026-02-13T15:33:02Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:33, 13 February 2026
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	[[File:Bludgeonstrangleholdoctopunchmodelsheet.jpg\|thumb\|We don't have these weapons.]]		[[File:Bludgeonstrangleholdoctopunchmodelsheet.jpg\|thumb\|We don't have these weapons.]]
	Most of the Generation 1 character designs from before 1987 were done by [[Floro Dery]]. The widely distributed model sheets of those characters may have been redrawn from his designs, or they might be his direct work. The first three years' worth of Generation 1 character models formed the basis for the artwork of Marvel's ''[[The Transformers Universe]]'' profile books. Additional profiles were later published in the back of [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|the main comic book]], showing character models for some of the 1987 and 1988 characters.		Most of the Generation 1 character designs from before 1987 were done by [[Floro Dery]]. The widely distributed model sheets of those characters may have been redrawn from his designs, or they might be his direct work. The first three years' worth of Generation 1 character models formed the basis for the artwork of Marvel's ''[[The Transformers Universe (Marvel)\|The Transformers Universe]]'' profile books. Additional profiles were later published in the back of [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|the main comic book]], showing character models for some of the 1987 and 1988 characters.

	A vast collection of Generation 1 character models are available in the books ''[[Transformers: The Ark]]'', ''[[Transformers: The Ark II]]'', and ''[[Transformers: The Complete Ark]]''. Many of the same designs are also available in ''[[Transformers Generations (guidebook)\|Transformers Generations]]'', though its pictures are quite small and typically feature only the front of the robot and the [[alternate mode\|alt mode]].		A vast collection of Generation 1 character models are available in the books ''[[Transformers: The Ark]]'', ''[[Transformers: The Ark II]]'', and ''[[Transformers: The Complete Ark]]''. Many of the same designs are also available in ''[[Transformers Generations (guidebook)\|Transformers Generations]]'', though its pictures are quite small and typically feature only the front of the robot and the [[alternate mode\|alt mode]].
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	[[File:TopspinCharDesign.jpg\|thumb\|100px]]		[[File:TopspinCharDesign.jpg\|thumb\|100px]]
	[[File:TwinTwistCharacterSheet.jpg\|thumb\|100px]]		[[File:TwinTwistCharacterSheet.jpg\|thumb\|100px]]
	*Character models were created for both [[Topspin (G1)\|Topspin]] and [[Twin Twist]] back in the '80s, but they were never animated, not even in a [[commercial]].		*Character models were created for both [[Topspin (G1)\|Topspin]] and [[Twin Twist (G1)\|Twin Twist]] back in the '80s, but they were never animated, not even in a [[commercial]].

	==See also==		==See also==

Nevermore: /* Model sheet poses used in fiction */

2026-01-20T00:03:05Z

Model sheet poses used in fiction

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:03, 20 January 2026
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	<center><gallery>		<center><gallery>
	File:~~Ravageboxart.jpg\|First there was the [[package art]].~~		File:Ravage pounce collage.jpg\|That one pose Ravage is perpetually trapped in.
	~~File:TFU~~ Ravage.jpg\|~~Then they used the package art to make the character model. Look for this~~ pose ~~basically everywhere.~~
	~~File:RavageRatbat.jpg\|See?~~
	~~File:G1 1984 backofboxbattle.jpg\|There's a whole fleet of 'em!~~
	~~File:NewOrder-Ravagepose.jpg\|He even hovers like this when he's recuperating.~~
	~~File:TimeWars2-Ravagepose.jpg\|These are all from two consecutive pages. The bottom two are of Ravage's from-behind character model!~~
	~~File:MarvelUK-258.jpg\|A textbook "pounce from the shadows".~~
	~~File:~~Ravage ~~butler hunted.jpg\|Man vs. Wild~~
	~~File:KreORavage.jpg\|Now~~ in ~~fun size!~~
	~~File:SGRavage-EvanGauntt.jpg\|Okay, this one was on purpose.~~
	~~File:MPtoy-Ravage.jpg\|Someone at TakaraTomy has most likely been reading this page~~.
	File:Wheeljack model pose.jpg\|Wheeljack has the same "package art > character model > fiction" history as Ravage.		File:Wheeljack model pose.jpg\|Wheeljack has the same "package art > character model > fiction" history as Ravage.
	File:Transfixatron.jpg\|Skywarp's standing at an angle with the far arm slightly raised and his head turned toward us, you say?		File:Transfixatron.jpg\|Skywarp's standing at an angle with the far arm slightly raised and his head turned toward us, you say?

GiveUsTerminatorArcee: a couple lines about G1 seeker wing patterns incidentally being the same

2025-07-29T03:28:53Z

a couple lines about G1 seeker wing patterns incidentally being the same

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:28, 29 July 2025
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	If the same toy is used for multiple characters, they may be depicted with very different character models—for example, [[Sideswipe (G1)\|Sideswipe]] and [[Red Alert (G1)\|Red Alert]]. These two toys are essentially ''identical'', but while Kohara's design for Sideswipe is tall and athletic, Dery's more toy-derived design for Red Alert is short and stocky. This pattern of artistically differentiating two very similar toys in order to make distinct characterization easier was particularly common with the 1984/1985 toys, many of which were [[redeco]]s of other toys. Examples include [[Trailbreaker (G1)\|Trailbreaker]]/[[Hoist (G1)\|Hoist]], [[Prowl (G1)\|Prowl]]/[[Smokescreen (G1)\|Smokescreen]], the [[Seeker (body-type)\|Seekers]]/the [[Conehead]]s, and others. In general, the 1984 toys were vastly anthropomorphized for the screen, while the 1985 character models resembled their toys much more closely, resulting in a stockier group of robots.		If the same toy is used for multiple characters, they may be depicted with very different character models—for example, [[Sideswipe (G1)\|Sideswipe]] and [[Red Alert (G1)\|Red Alert]]. These two toys are essentially ''identical'', but while Kohara's design for Sideswipe is tall and athletic, Dery's more toy-derived design for Red Alert is short and stocky. This pattern of artistically differentiating two very similar toys in order to make distinct characterization easier was particularly common with the 1984/1985 toys, many of which were [[redeco]]s of other toys. Examples include [[Trailbreaker (G1)\|Trailbreaker]]/[[Hoist (G1)\|Hoist]], [[Prowl (G1)\|Prowl]]/[[Smokescreen (G1)\|Smokescreen]], the [[Seeker (body-type)\|Seekers]]/the [[Conehead]]s, and others. In general, the 1984 toys were vastly anthropomorphized for the screen, while the 1985 character models resembled their toys much more closely, resulting in a stockier group of robots.

			Rarely, the reverse happens; characters who share a toy accidentally sharing details that aren't the same for each one. For instance, the toys of the original three [[Decepticon Planes]] have unique wing stickers, but their animation models all use [[Thundercracker (G1)/toys#Generation_1\|Thundercracker's]] pattern.

	The practice of varying the character models of characters who share a bodyform was revisited in ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)\|Transformers Animated]].'' Though [[Ratchet (Animated)\|Ratchet]] and [[Ironhide (Animated)\|Ironhide]] share a bodyform, Ratchet's character model has a paunch while Ironhide's form is more buff. [[Bumblebee (Animated)\|Bumblebee]] shares a bodyform with roughly a dozen other characters, and their bodyshapes run the gamut from [[Wasp\|skinny]] to [[Tap-Out (Animated)\|stocky]] to [[Glyph (Animated)\|curvaceous]], depending on the character's needs.		The practice of varying the character models of characters who share a bodyform was revisited in ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)\|Transformers Animated]].'' Though [[Ratchet (Animated)\|Ratchet]] and [[Ironhide (Animated)\|Ironhide]] share a bodyform, Ratchet's character model has a paunch while Ironhide's form is more buff. [[Bumblebee (Animated)\|Bumblebee]] shares a bodyform with roughly a dozen other characters, and their bodyshapes run the gamut from [[Wasp\|skinny]] to [[Tap-Out (Animated)\|stocky]] to [[Glyph (Animated)\|curvaceous]], depending on the character's needs.

Greebtron: /* External links */

2024-11-21T01:55:18Z

External links

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	*[http://www.toyarchive.com/Transformers/Cels/ACels1.html Some] of the G1 character model celworks from [http://www.toyarchive.com/ SUPER TOY ARCHIVE].		*[http://www.toyarchive.com/Transformers/Cels/ACels1.html Some] of the G1 character model celworks from [http://www.toyarchive.com/ SUPER TOY ARCHIVE].
	*[http://www.transformertoys.co.uk/content.php?/transformers-article/transformers-prototypes/106/transformers-prototypes/series+bibles.html Some] Beast Wars II and Beast Wars Neo character models from [http://www.transformertoys.co.uk/ Transformers At The Moon].		*[http://www.transformertoys.co.uk/content.php?/transformers-article/transformers-prototypes/106/transformers-prototypes/series+bibles.html Some] Beast Wars II and Beast Wars Neo character models from [http://www.transformertoys.co.uk/ Transformers At The Moon].
			*[https://sunbowmarvelarchive.blogspot.com/p/briefingreference-binder-galleries.html Extensive] galleries of Marvel Productions character model sheets at the Sunbow Marvel Archive.

	[[Category:Media]]		[[Category:Media]]

Saix at 18:52, 1 November 2024

2024-11-01T18:52:38Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:52, 1 November 2024
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	[[File:EvolutionSkyfire.jpg\|upright=1.4\|thumb\|Skyfire is Jetfire on 'roids.]]		[[File:EvolutionSkyfire.jpg\|upright=1.4\|thumb\|Skyfire is Jetfire on 'roids.]]
	*[[Jetfire (G1)\|Jetfire / Skyfire]] had two different character models from early Generation 1 series. The toy-accurate one appeared three times "fictionally," once as a miscolored, partially-obscured background character in the [[The Last Stand\|fourth Marvel Comics issue]], again in the Marvel Comics as a [[Ashes, Ashes...\|spectator at Optimus Prime's funeral]] (right next to his "Skyfire" model), and finally in the [[The Transformers (Milton Bradley comic)~~\|The Transformers~~\|Milton-Bradley promotional comic]]. It would also occasionally crop up in secondary media, such as coloring books and the animated portion of the commercial for Jetfire and [[Shockwave (G1)\|Shockwave]].		*[[Jetfire (G1)\|Jetfire / Skyfire]] had two different character models from early Generation 1 series. The toy-accurate one appeared three times "fictionally," once as a miscolored, partially-obscured background character in the [[The Last Stand\|fourth Marvel Comics issue]], again in the Marvel Comics as a [[Ashes, Ashes...\|spectator at Optimus Prime's funeral]] (right next to his "Skyfire" model), and finally in the [[The Transformers (Milton Bradley comic)\|Milton-Bradley promotional comic]]. It would also occasionally crop up in secondary media, such as coloring books and the animated portion of the commercial for Jetfire and [[Shockwave (G1)\|Shockwave]].

	{{-}}		{{-}}

Saix: clean up, replaced: |upright=1.1| → | (3), In the Transformers → The Transformers (Milton Bradley comic)|The Transformers, typos fixed: end result → result

2024-11-01T18:52:06Z

clean up, replaced: |upright=1.1| → | (3), In the Transformers → The Transformers (Milton Bradley comic)|The Transformers, typos fixed: end result → result

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:52, 1 November 2024
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	The practice of varying the character models of characters who share a bodyform was revisited in ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)\|Transformers Animated]].'' Though [[Ratchet (Animated)\|Ratchet]] and [[Ironhide (Animated)\|Ironhide]] share a bodyform, Ratchet's character model has a paunch while Ironhide's form is more buff. [[Bumblebee (Animated)\|Bumblebee]] shares a bodyform with roughly a dozen other characters, and their bodyshapes run the gamut from [[Wasp\|skinny]] to [[Tap-Out (Animated)\|stocky]] to [[Glyph (Animated)\|curvaceous]], depending on the character's needs.		The practice of varying the character models of characters who share a bodyform was revisited in ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)\|Transformers Animated]].'' Though [[Ratchet (Animated)\|Ratchet]] and [[Ironhide (Animated)\|Ironhide]] share a bodyform, Ratchet's character model has a paunch while Ironhide's form is more buff. [[Bumblebee (Animated)\|Bumblebee]] shares a bodyform with roughly a dozen other characters, and their bodyshapes run the gamut from [[Wasp\|skinny]] to [[Tap-Out (Animated)\|stocky]] to [[Glyph (Animated)\|curvaceous]], depending on the character's needs.

	[[File:Ratchet-charactermodel.jpg\|left~~\|upright=1.1~~\|thumb\|Guess which one can actually turn into an ambulance?<ref>'''Answer:''' Neither. While Ratchet's character model clearly can't transform into anything, Ratchet's toy transforms into a Onebox minivan ''pretending'' to be an ambulance.</ref>]]		[[File:Ratchet-charactermodel.jpg\|left\|thumb\|Guess which one can actually turn into an ambulance?<ref>'''Answer:''' Neither. While Ratchet's character model clearly can't transform into anything, Ratchet's toy transforms into a Onebox minivan ''pretending'' to be an ambulance.</ref>]]

	Character models may vary wildly from the toy itself, leading to greater or lesser degrees of "[[show-accuracy]]". Perhaps the most conspicuous examples are [[Ironhide (G1)\|Ironhide]] and [[Ratchet (G1)\|Ratchet]]. In those instances, droid-like and "alien" toys were heavily anthropomorphized in the character models, adding humanoid proportions, heads, and faces.		Character models may vary wildly from the toy itself, leading to greater or lesser degrees of "[[show-accuracy]]". Perhaps the most conspicuous examples are [[Ironhide (G1)\|Ironhide]] and [[Ratchet (G1)\|Ratchet]]. In those instances, droid-like and "alien" toys were heavily anthropomorphized in the character models, adding humanoid proportions, heads, and faces.
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	A few exceptions, such as [[Whirl (G1)\|Whirl]] and [[Roadbuster (G1)\|Roadbuster]], who only appear in the Marvel UK comics, appear to have no character models at all, and their art is based on their toys. Regardless, even in the later years of the Generation 1 franchise, the creation of character models persisted. One example is the 1989 Pretenders, whose character models are replicated faithfully by [[José Delbo]]. Even though artistic interpretations of Bludgeon, Stranglehold, and Octopunch diversified with later artists, elements taken from the character models continued, such as their individualized melee weapons. (These weapons were not included with the individual toys.)		A few exceptions, such as [[Whirl (G1)\|Whirl]] and [[Roadbuster (G1)\|Roadbuster]], who only appear in the Marvel UK comics, appear to have no character models at all, and their art is based on their toys. Regardless, even in the later years of the Generation 1 franchise, the creation of character models persisted. One example is the 1989 Pretenders, whose character models are replicated faithfully by [[José Delbo]]. Even though artistic interpretations of Bludgeon, Stranglehold, and Octopunch diversified with later artists, elements taken from the character models continued, such as their individualized melee weapons. (These weapons were not included with the individual toys.)

	[[File:Bludgeonstrangleholdoctopunchmodelsheet.jpg~~\|upright=1.1~~\|thumb\|We don't have these weapons.]]		[[File:Bludgeonstrangleholdoctopunchmodelsheet.jpg\|thumb\|We don't have these weapons.]]
	Most of the Generation 1 character designs from before 1987 were done by [[Floro Dery]]. The widely distributed model sheets of those characters may have been redrawn from his designs, or they might be his direct work. The first three years' worth of Generation 1 character models formed the basis for the artwork of Marvel's ''[[The Transformers Universe]]'' profile books. Additional profiles were later published in the back of [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|the main comic book]], showing character models for some of the 1987 and 1988 characters.		Most of the Generation 1 character designs from before 1987 were done by [[Floro Dery]]. The widely distributed model sheets of those characters may have been redrawn from his designs, or they might be his direct work. The first three years' worth of Generation 1 character models formed the basis for the artwork of Marvel's ''[[The Transformers Universe]]'' profile books. Additional profiles were later published in the back of [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|the main comic book]], showing character models for some of the 1987 and 1988 characters.

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	*The original [[Megatron (G1)\|Megatron]] character model was based not on the toy, but on early concept art for a prototype version of the figure that differed significantly from the finished article. This design—featuring a different, black-helmeted head, an alternate scope/cannon, and the gun's barrel on its back rather than its hip—was used for the very first ''Transformers'' commercial, and the first two issues of the Marvel Comic. Although the model was amended to slightly better resemble the toy before the cartoon itself was produced, much of the finished Megatron design remains rooted in the prototype.		*The original [[Megatron (G1)\|Megatron]] character model was based not on the toy, but on early concept art for a prototype version of the figure that differed significantly from the finished article. This design—featuring a different, black-helmeted head, an alternate scope/cannon, and the gun's barrel on its back rather than its hip—was used for the very first ''Transformers'' commercial, and the first two issues of the Marvel Comic. Although the model was amended to slightly better resemble the toy before the cartoon itself was produced, much of the finished Megatron design remains rooted in the prototype.
	*In 1986, the [[Aerialbot (G1)\|Aerialbots]]' character models were mostly based on simplified lineart of their toys, rather than the actual toys themselves, but this did not result in much divergence from the finished toys. The exceptions came in the form of [[Silverbolt (G1)\|Silverbolt]], whose rear-view model lacks the jet nosecone that ought to rest on his back, and [[Superion (G1)\|Superion]], whose model has a [[mouthplate]] instead of the toy's visible mouth.<ref>[http://www.ntfa.net/forums/lofiversion/index.php?t5788.html "Scramble My What?" on the NTFA forum explores the history of the Aerialbot designs]</ref>		*In 1986, the [[Aerialbot (G1)\|Aerialbots]]' character models were mostly based on simplified lineart of their toys, rather than the actual toys themselves, but this did not result in much divergence from the finished toys. The exceptions came in the form of [[Silverbolt (G1)\|Silverbolt]], whose rear-view model lacks the jet nosecone that ought to rest on his back, and [[Superion (G1)\|Superion]], whose model has a [[mouthplate]] instead of the toy's visible mouth.<ref>[http://www.ntfa.net/forums/lofiversion/index.php?t5788.html "Scramble My What?" on the NTFA forum explores the history of the Aerialbot designs]</ref>
	*Also 1986, the [[Stunticon (G1)\|Stunticons]]' models were created in a similar way to the Aerialbots, except they were based on lineart of ''prototype designs'' for the figures, which included head designs that were ''very'' different from the noggins the finished toys would ultimately have. The team's models were then subject to further design revisions, which wound up taking the designs even further away from the toys, even retaining the early head designs. The ~~end~~ result was a team of character models that looked virtually nothing like their toys. An early character model for [[Breakdown (G1)\|Breakdown]], published in ''[[Transformers: The Ark\|The Ark]]'', shows his early, concept-art-based design.<ref>[http://www.ntfa.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=5792 "Why do sports cars have square heads?", another NTFA article on the history of the Stunticons]</ref>		*Also 1986, the [[Stunticon (G1)\|Stunticons]]' models were created in a similar way to the Aerialbots, except they were based on lineart of ''prototype designs'' for the figures, which included head designs that were ''very'' different from the noggins the finished toys would ultimately have. The team's models were then subject to further design revisions, which wound up taking the designs even further away from the toys, even retaining the early head designs. The result was a team of character models that looked virtually nothing like their toys. An early character model for [[Breakdown (G1)\|Breakdown]], published in ''[[Transformers: The Ark\|The Ark]]'', shows his early, concept-art-based design.<ref>[http://www.ntfa.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=5792 "Why do sports cars have square heads?", another NTFA article on the history of the Stunticons]</ref>
	*Given that the [[Combaticon (G1)\|Combaticons]] ''also'' look nothing like their toys, it seems likely they went through the same process as the Stunticons. Early models published in both ''The Ark'' and ''[[Transformers Generations (guidebook)\|Transformers Generations]]'' show alternate designs for the whole team that are not especially any more toy-accurate in robot mode, but with much more accurate vehicle mode forms; presumably, these early designs underwent the same revision process the Stunticons did, resulting in the finished Combaticon model seen in the series. Unlike the Stunticons, however, the Combaticons early head designs ''were'' replaced with more toy-accurate ones, likely based on the toy's package art.		*Given that the [[Combaticon (G1)\|Combaticons]] ''also'' look nothing like their toys, it seems likely they went through the same process as the Stunticons. Early models published in both ''The Ark'' and ''[[Transformers Generations (guidebook)\|Transformers Generations]]'' show alternate designs for the whole team that are not especially any more toy-accurate in robot mode, but with much more accurate vehicle mode forms; presumably, these early designs underwent the same revision process the Stunticons did, resulting in the finished Combaticon model seen in the series. Unlike the Stunticons, however, the Combaticons early head designs ''were'' replaced with more toy-accurate ones, likely based on the toy's package art.

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	[[File:EvolutionSkyfire.jpg\|upright=1.4\|thumb\|Skyfire is Jetfire on 'roids.]]		[[File:EvolutionSkyfire.jpg\|upright=1.4\|thumb\|Skyfire is Jetfire on 'roids.]]
	*[[Jetfire (G1)\|Jetfire / Skyfire]] had two different character models from early Generation 1 series. The toy-accurate one appeared three times "fictionally," once as a miscolored, partially-obscured background character in the [[The Last Stand\|fourth Marvel Comics issue]], again in the Marvel Comics as a [[Ashes, Ashes...\|spectator at Optimus Prime's funeral]] (right next to his "Skyfire" model), and finally in the [[~~In the~~ Transformers\|Milton-Bradley promotional comic]]. It would also occasionally crop up in secondary media, such as coloring books and the animated portion of the commercial for Jetfire and [[Shockwave (G1)\|Shockwave]].		*[[Jetfire (G1)\|Jetfire / Skyfire]] had two different character models from early Generation 1 series. The toy-accurate one appeared three times "fictionally," once as a miscolored, partially-obscured background character in the [[The Last Stand\|fourth Marvel Comics issue]], again in the Marvel Comics as a [[Ashes, Ashes...\|spectator at Optimus Prime's funeral]] (right next to his "Skyfire" model), and finally in the [[The Transformers (Milton Bradley comic)\|The Transformers\|Milton-Bradley promotional comic]]. It would also occasionally crop up in secondary media, such as coloring books and the animated portion of the commercial for Jetfire and [[Shockwave (G1)\|Shockwave]].

	{{-}}		{{-}}
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	*[[Hot Spot (G1)\|Hot Spot]] would occasionally switch between having a faceplate or having a mouth drawn '''on''' his faceplate in his appearances on the [[The Transformers (cartoon)\|original ''The Transformers'' cartoon]]. He had a mouth in "[[Ghost in the Machine (G1)\|Ghost in the Machine]]" and "[[The Ultimate Weapon]]" — episodes that seem to have been animated by two different animation companies, suggesting that Hot Spot's mouth may have come from an alternate character model.		*[[Hot Spot (G1)\|Hot Spot]] would occasionally switch between having a faceplate or having a mouth drawn '''on''' his faceplate in his appearances on the [[The Transformers (cartoon)\|original ''The Transformers'' cartoon]]. He had a mouth in "[[Ghost in the Machine (G1)\|Ghost in the Machine]]" and "[[The Ultimate Weapon]]" — episodes that seem to have been animated by two different animation companies, suggesting that Hot Spot's mouth may have come from an alternate character model.
	{{-}}		{{-}}
	[[File:G1ArceeModelComp.jpg~~\|upright=1.1~~\|thumb\|Arcee does Jenny Craig.]]		[[File:G1ArceeModelComp.jpg\|thumb\|Arcee does Jenny Craig.]]
	*''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'': Most of the cast of new characters in the movie had early versions of their character models that changed to varying degrees before the movie was animated. These character models were often used in [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|the Marvel comics]] and occasionally showed up in season 3 episodes of the television series. Since the toy design process had longer lead times, the toys were designed from the earlier models.		*''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'': Most of the cast of new characters in the movie had early versions of their character models that changed to varying degrees before the movie was animated. These character models were often used in [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|the Marvel comics]] and occasionally showed up in season 3 episodes of the television series. Since the toy design process had longer lead times, the toys were designed from the earlier models.
	{{-}}		{{-}}

Nevermore: /* Package art influence */

2024-05-11T12:12:22Z

Package art influence

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:12, 11 May 2024
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	===Package art influence===		===Package art influence===
	Some character models clearly used the toys' package art as reference, which had some knock-on effects on their designs.		Some character models clearly used the toys' package art as reference, which had some knock-on effects on their designs.
	*[[Hound (G1)\|Hound]]'s character model is in the same pose as his ~~box~~ art. The model misinterprets the box art's foreshortening of his rifle, which resulted in Hound wielding a stubby little gun in robot mode, while in vehicle mode, it was its proper length.		*[[Hound (G1)\|Hound]]'s character model is in the same pose as his package art. The model misinterprets the box art's foreshortening of his rifle, which resulted in Hound wielding a stubby little gun in robot mode, while in vehicle mode, it was its proper length.
	*[[Wheeljack (G1)\|Wheeljack]]'s model also shares his ~~box~~ art's pose. The ~~box~~ art adds ~~an assortment of~~ technical details to the insides of his lower legs that are not part of his toy, but which wound up transferring onto his character model.		*[[Wheeljack (G1)\|Wheeljack]]'s model also shares his package art's pose. The package art adds various technical details (notably, two triangular shapes) to the insides of his lower legs that are not part of his toy, but which wound up transferring onto his character model.
	*[[Ravage (G1)\|Ravage]]'s character model and package art share an identical pose, which would go on to be ''widely'' replicated across much ''Transformers'' media.		*[[Ravage (G1)\|Ravage]]'s character model and package art share an identical pose, which would go on to be ''widely'' replicated across much ''Transformers'' media.
	*[[Rumble (G1)\|Rumble]] and [[Frenzy (G1)\|Frenzy]]'s package art shows them with only one of their Thruster guns attached to their backs, and one in their hands. This translated to the character models, which resulted in the two brothers intermittently having only one gun on their backs throughout the show.		*[[Rumble (G1)\|Rumble]] and [[Frenzy (G1)\|Frenzy]]'s package art shows them with only one of their Thruster guns attached to their backs, and one in their hands. This translated to the character models, which resulted in the two brothers intermittently having only one gun on their backs throughout the show.

Nevermore: /* Model sheet poses used in fiction */

2024-05-11T12:05:30Z

Model sheet poses used in fiction

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:05, 11 May 2024
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	File:SGRavage-EvanGauntt.jpg\|Okay, this one was on purpose.		File:SGRavage-EvanGauntt.jpg\|Okay, this one was on purpose.
	File:MPtoy-Ravage.jpg\|Someone at TakaraTomy has most likely been reading this page.		File:MPtoy-Ravage.jpg\|Someone at TakaraTomy has most likely been reading this page.
			File:Wheeljack model pose.jpg\|Wheeljack has the same "package art > character model > fiction" history as Ravage.
	File:Transfixatron.jpg\|Skywarp's standing at an angle with the far arm slightly raised and his head turned toward us, you say?		File:Transfixatron.jpg\|Skywarp's standing at an angle with the far arm slightly raised and his head turned toward us, you say?
	File:Holomegs.jpg\|Even [[hologram]]s do it.		File:Holomegs.jpg\|Even [[hologram]]s do it.

Usfmm at 06:42, 28 December 2022

2022-12-28T06:42:59Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 06:42, 28 December 2022
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	A '''character model''' is a stylistic guide created to help animators and licensee artists depict the [[Transformer]]s in a consistent and recognizable way. A typical character model is illustrated with a series of model sheets, containing two or more line drawings of each of a character's modes, showing the front and back, weapons, and sometimes details as well. Character models are most often derived from a character's [[toy]], though in some instances the toy and character design may be designed simultaneously.		A '''character model''' is a stylistic guide created to help animators and licensee artists depict the [[Transformer]]s in a consistent and recognizable way. A typical character model is illustrated with a series of model sheets, containing two or more line drawings of each of a character's modes, showing the front and back, weapons, and sometimes details as well. Character models are most often derived from a character's [[toy]], though in some instances the toy and character design may be designed simultaneously.

	Character models produced in the 80s were typically black & white, with a separate color guide that would often cover just the front of the model. Modern character designs are usually in color, though sometimes the designs for the backs are only produced in black & white.		Character models produced in the 80s were typically black & white, with a separate color guide that would often cover just the front of the model. Modern character designs are usually in color, though sometimes the designs for the backs are only produced in black & white.

	Character models are not to be confused with [[control drawing\|control art]], which is used in the toy design process.		Character models are not to be confused with [[control drawing\|control art]], which is used in the toy design process.
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	Character models may vary wildly from the toy itself, leading to greater or lesser degrees of "[[show-accuracy]]". Perhaps the most conspicuous examples are [[Ironhide (G1)\|Ironhide]] and [[Ratchet (G1)\|Ratchet]]. In those instances, droid-like and "alien" toys were heavily anthropomorphized in the character models, adding humanoid proportions, heads, and faces.		Character models may vary wildly from the toy itself, leading to greater or lesser degrees of "[[show-accuracy]]". Perhaps the most conspicuous examples are [[Ironhide (G1)\|Ironhide]] and [[Ratchet (G1)\|Ratchet]]. In those instances, droid-like and "alien" toys were heavily anthropomorphized in the character models, adding humanoid proportions, heads, and faces.

	Perhaps the best representation of both of the above factors—character models differing from the toys, and later character models differing from earlier ones based on the same toys—is shown by [[Tarantulas (BW)\|Tarantulas]] and [[Blackarachnia (BW)\|Blackarachnia]].		Perhaps the best representation of both of the above factors—character models differing from the toys, and later character models differing from earlier ones based on the same toys—is shown by [[Tarantulas (BW)\|Tarantulas]] and [[Blackarachnia (BW)\|Blackarachnia]].

	A few exceptions, such as [[Whirl (G1)\|Whirl]] and [[Roadbuster (G1)\|Roadbuster]], who only appear in the Marvel UK comics, appear to have no character models at all, and their art is based on their toys. Regardless, even in the later years of the Generation 1 franchise, the creation of character models persisted. One example is the 1989 Pretenders, whose character models are replicated faithfully by [[José Delbo]]. Even though artistic interpretations of Bludgeon, Stranglehold, and Octopunch diversified with later artists, elements taken from the character models continued, such as their individualized melee weapons. (These weapons were not included with the individual toys.)		A few exceptions, such as [[Whirl (G1)\|Whirl]] and [[Roadbuster (G1)\|Roadbuster]], who only appear in the Marvel UK comics, appear to have no character models at all, and their art is based on their toys. Regardless, even in the later years of the Generation 1 franchise, the creation of character models persisted. One example is the 1989 Pretenders, whose character models are replicated faithfully by [[José Delbo]]. Even though artistic interpretations of Bludgeon, Stranglehold, and Octopunch diversified with later artists, elements taken from the character models continued, such as their individualized melee weapons. (These weapons were not included with the individual toys.)
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	Most of the Generation 1 character designs from before 1987 were done by [[Floro Dery]]. The widely distributed model sheets of those characters may have been redrawn from his designs, or they might be his direct work. The first three years' worth of Generation 1 character models formed the basis for the artwork of Marvel's ''[[The Transformers Universe]]'' profile books. Additional profiles were later published in the back of [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|the main comic book]], showing character models for some of the 1987 and 1988 characters.		Most of the Generation 1 character designs from before 1987 were done by [[Floro Dery]]. The widely distributed model sheets of those characters may have been redrawn from his designs, or they might be his direct work. The first three years' worth of Generation 1 character models formed the basis for the artwork of Marvel's ''[[The Transformers Universe]]'' profile books. Additional profiles were later published in the back of [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|the main comic book]], showing character models for some of the 1987 and 1988 characters.

	A vast collection of Generation 1 character models are available in the books ''[[Transformers: The Ark]]'', ''[[Transformers: The Ark II]]'', and ''[[Transformers: The Complete Ark]]''. Many of the same designs are also available in ''[[Transformers Generations (guidebook)\|Transformers Generations]]'', though its pictures are quite small and typically feature only the front of the robot and the [[alternate mode\|alt mode]].		A vast collection of Generation 1 character models are available in the books ''[[Transformers: The Ark]]'', ''[[Transformers: The Ark II]]'', and ''[[Transformers: The Complete Ark]]''. Many of the same designs are also available in ''[[Transformers Generations (guidebook)\|Transformers Generations]]'', though its pictures are quite small and typically feature only the front of the robot and the [[alternate mode\|alt mode]].
	{{--}}		{{--}}

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	{{-}}		{{-}}
	[[File:FlamesofBoltax-SoundwaveRatbat.jpg\|upright=1.4\|thumb\|Soundwave's having his mouthplate dry-cleaned]]		[[File:FlamesofBoltax-SoundwaveRatbat.jpg\|upright=1.4\|thumb\|Soundwave's having his mouthplate dry-cleaned]]
	*Marvel US [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity\|Soundwave]] was drawn without a [[mouthplate]] by artist [[José Delbo]], based on an early version of his character model. Soundwave was also colored purple in nearly every appearance in the US comics, probably due to the early model's [[:File:Soundwavecommercial.jpg\|seemingly lavender coloration]]. The ''UK'' comics coloured him blue in every appearance there and gave him the toy's yellow visor, working off a different model sheet.		*Marvel US [[Soundwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity\|Soundwave]] was drawn without a [[mouthplate]] by artist [[José Delbo]], based on an early version of his character model. Soundwave was also colored purple in nearly every appearance in the US comics, probably due to the early model's [[:File:Soundwavecommercial.jpg\|seemingly lavender coloration]]. The ''UK'' comics coloured him blue in every appearance there and gave him the toy's yellow visor, working off a different model sheet.
	{{-}}		{{-}}
	[[File:Nightbeatsirenswappedheads.jpg\|upright=0.85\|thumb\|Pick a head, any head.]]		[[File:Nightbeatsirenswappedheads.jpg\|upright=0.85\|thumb\|Pick a head, any head.]]
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	==Model sheet poses used in fiction==		==Model sheet poses used in fiction==
	Occasionally, animation studios (most notably [[AKOM]]) actually used the character models of certain characters in the episodes themselves in order to spare themselves from having to draw new poses. Examples are the [[Predacon (G1)\|Predacons]] when they first appear in "[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 5]]", various scenes with [[Devastator (G1)\|Devastator]], [[Broadside (G1)\|Broadside]] and [[Galvatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity\|Galvatron]] in "[[Carnage in C-Minor]]", and at least one shot from "[[:File:Transfixatron.jpg\|The Autobot Run]]". This would also routinely happen in [[Marvel Comics]] stories (most notably by [[José Delbo]] and [[Robin Smith]]) as well.		Occasionally, animation studios (most notably [[AKOM]]) actually used the character models of certain characters in the episodes themselves in order to spare themselves from having to draw new poses. Examples are the [[Predacon (G1)\|Predacons]] when they first appear in "[[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 5]]", various scenes with [[Devastator (G1)\|Devastator]], [[Broadside (G1)\|Broadside]] and [[Galvatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity\|Galvatron]] in "[[Carnage in C-Minor]]", and at least one shot from "[[:File:Transfixatron.jpg\|The Autobot Run]]". This would also routinely happen in [[Marvel Comics]] stories (most notably by [[José Delbo]] and [[Robin Smith]]) as well.

	<center><gallery>		<center><gallery>

Escargon: Undo revision 1615896 by MBG (talk)

2022-06-12T04:02:20Z

Undo revision 1615896 by MBG (talk)

← Older revision		Revision as of 04:02, 12 June 2022
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	*[[Ravage (G1)\|Ravage]]'s character model and package art share an identical pose, which would go on to be ''widely'' replicated across much ''Transformers'' media.		*[[Ravage (G1)\|Ravage]]'s character model and package art share an identical pose, which would go on to be ''widely'' replicated across much ''Transformers'' media.
	*[[Rumble (G1)\|Rumble]] and [[Frenzy (G1)\|Frenzy]]'s package art shows them with only one of their Thruster guns attached to their backs, and one in their hands. This translated to the character models, which resulted in the two brothers intermittently having only one gun on their backs throughout the show.		*[[Rumble (G1)\|Rumble]] and [[Frenzy (G1)\|Frenzy]]'s package art shows them with only one of their Thruster guns attached to their backs, and one in their hands. This translated to the character models, which resulted in the two brothers intermittently having only one gun on their backs throughout the show.
			*[[Superion (G1)\|Superion]]'s character model has a very long rifle attached to his arm that is not part of his toy. This appears to have been added to his character model by a designer who misinterpreted the toy's package art, which uses forced perspective to make his normally-sized handgun appear much longer.

	===Made-up rear views===		===Made-up rear views===

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:33, 13 February 2026
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	[[File:Bludgeonstrangleholdoctopunchmodelsheet.jpg\|thumb\|We don't have these weapons.]]		[[File:Bludgeonstrangleholdoctopunchmodelsheet.jpg\|thumb\|We don't have these weapons.]]
	Most of the Generation 1 character designs from before 1987 were done by [[Floro Dery]]. The widely distributed model sheets of those characters may have been redrawn from his designs, or they might be his direct work. The first three years' worth of Generation 1 character models formed the basis for the artwork of Marvel's ''[[The Transformers Universe]]'' profile books. Additional profiles were later published in the back of [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|the main comic book]], showing character models for some of the 1987 and 1988 characters.		Most of the Generation 1 character designs from before 1987 were done by [[Floro Dery]]. The widely distributed model sheets of those characters may have been redrawn from his designs, or they might be his direct work. The first three years' worth of Generation 1 character models formed the basis for the artwork of Marvel's ''[[The Transformers Universe (Marvel)\|The Transformers Universe]]'' profile books. Additional profiles were later published in the back of [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|the main comic book]], showing character models for some of the 1987 and 1988 characters.

	A vast collection of Generation 1 character models are available in the books ''[[Transformers: The Ark]]'', ''[[Transformers: The Ark II]]'', and ''[[Transformers: The Complete Ark]]''. Many of the same designs are also available in ''[[Transformers Generations (guidebook)\|Transformers Generations]]'', though its pictures are quite small and typically feature only the front of the robot and the [[alternate mode\|alt mode]].		A vast collection of Generation 1 character models are available in the books ''[[Transformers: The Ark]]'', ''[[Transformers: The Ark II]]'', and ''[[Transformers: The Complete Ark]]''. Many of the same designs are also available in ''[[Transformers Generations (guidebook)\|Transformers Generations]]'', though its pictures are quite small and typically feature only the front of the robot and the [[alternate mode\|alt mode]].
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	[[File:TopspinCharDesign.jpg\|thumb\|100px]]		[[File:TopspinCharDesign.jpg\|thumb\|100px]]
	[[File:TwinTwistCharacterSheet.jpg\|thumb\|100px]]		[[File:TwinTwistCharacterSheet.jpg\|thumb\|100px]]
	*Character models were created for both [[Topspin (G1)\|Topspin]] and [[Twin Twist]] back in the '80s, but they were never animated, not even in a [[commercial]].		*Character models were created for both [[Topspin (G1)\|Topspin]] and [[Twin Twist (G1)\|Twin Twist]] back in the '80s, but they were never animated, not even in a [[commercial]].

	==See also==		==See also==

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:03, 20 January 2026
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	<center><gallery>		<center><gallery>
	File:~~Ravageboxart.jpg\|First there was the [[package art]].~~		File:Ravage pounce collage.jpg\|That one pose Ravage is perpetually trapped in.
	~~File:TFU~~ Ravage.jpg\|~~Then they used the package art to make the character model. Look for this~~ pose ~~basically everywhere.~~
	~~File:RavageRatbat.jpg\|See?~~
	~~File:G1 1984 backofboxbattle.jpg\|There's a whole fleet of 'em!~~
	~~File:NewOrder-Ravagepose.jpg\|He even hovers like this when he's recuperating.~~
	~~File:TimeWars2-Ravagepose.jpg\|These are all from two consecutive pages. The bottom two are of Ravage's from-behind character model!~~
	~~File:MarvelUK-258.jpg\|A textbook "pounce from the shadows".~~
	~~File:~~Ravage ~~butler hunted.jpg\|Man vs. Wild~~
	~~File:KreORavage.jpg\|Now~~ in ~~fun size!~~
	~~File:SGRavage-EvanGauntt.jpg\|Okay, this one was on purpose.~~
	~~File:MPtoy-Ravage.jpg\|Someone at TakaraTomy has most likely been reading this page~~.
	File:Wheeljack model pose.jpg\|Wheeljack has the same "package art > character model > fiction" history as Ravage.		File:Wheeljack model pose.jpg\|Wheeljack has the same "package art > character model > fiction" history as Ravage.
	File:Transfixatron.jpg\|Skywarp's standing at an angle with the far arm slightly raised and his head turned toward us, you say?		File:Transfixatron.jpg\|Skywarp's standing at an angle with the far arm slightly raised and his head turned toward us, you say?

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:28, 29 July 2025
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	If the same toy is used for multiple characters, they may be depicted with very different character models—for example, [[Sideswipe (G1)\|Sideswipe]] and [[Red Alert (G1)\|Red Alert]]. These two toys are essentially ''identical'', but while Kohara's design for Sideswipe is tall and athletic, Dery's more toy-derived design for Red Alert is short and stocky. This pattern of artistically differentiating two very similar toys in order to make distinct characterization easier was particularly common with the 1984/1985 toys, many of which were [[redeco]]s of other toys. Examples include [[Trailbreaker (G1)\|Trailbreaker]]/[[Hoist (G1)\|Hoist]], [[Prowl (G1)\|Prowl]]/[[Smokescreen (G1)\|Smokescreen]], the [[Seeker (body-type)\|Seekers]]/the [[Conehead]]s, and others. In general, the 1984 toys were vastly anthropomorphized for the screen, while the 1985 character models resembled their toys much more closely, resulting in a stockier group of robots.		If the same toy is used for multiple characters, they may be depicted with very different character models—for example, [[Sideswipe (G1)\|Sideswipe]] and [[Red Alert (G1)\|Red Alert]]. These two toys are essentially ''identical'', but while Kohara's design for Sideswipe is tall and athletic, Dery's more toy-derived design for Red Alert is short and stocky. This pattern of artistically differentiating two very similar toys in order to make distinct characterization easier was particularly common with the 1984/1985 toys, many of which were [[redeco]]s of other toys. Examples include [[Trailbreaker (G1)\|Trailbreaker]]/[[Hoist (G1)\|Hoist]], [[Prowl (G1)\|Prowl]]/[[Smokescreen (G1)\|Smokescreen]], the [[Seeker (body-type)\|Seekers]]/the [[Conehead]]s, and others. In general, the 1984 toys were vastly anthropomorphized for the screen, while the 1985 character models resembled their toys much more closely, resulting in a stockier group of robots.

			Rarely, the reverse happens; characters who share a toy accidentally sharing details that aren't the same for each one. For instance, the toys of the original three [[Decepticon Planes]] have unique wing stickers, but their animation models all use [[Thundercracker (G1)/toys#Generation_1\|Thundercracker's]] pattern.

	The practice of varying the character models of characters who share a bodyform was revisited in ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)\|Transformers Animated]].'' Though [[Ratchet (Animated)\|Ratchet]] and [[Ironhide (Animated)\|Ironhide]] share a bodyform, Ratchet's character model has a paunch while Ironhide's form is more buff. [[Bumblebee (Animated)\|Bumblebee]] shares a bodyform with roughly a dozen other characters, and their bodyshapes run the gamut from [[Wasp\|skinny]] to [[Tap-Out (Animated)\|stocky]] to [[Glyph (Animated)\|curvaceous]], depending on the character's needs.		The practice of varying the character models of characters who share a bodyform was revisited in ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)\|Transformers Animated]].'' Though [[Ratchet (Animated)\|Ratchet]] and [[Ironhide (Animated)\|Ironhide]] share a bodyform, Ratchet's character model has a paunch while Ironhide's form is more buff. [[Bumblebee (Animated)\|Bumblebee]] shares a bodyform with roughly a dozen other characters, and their bodyshapes run the gamut from [[Wasp\|skinny]] to [[Tap-Out (Animated)\|stocky]] to [[Glyph (Animated)\|curvaceous]], depending on the character's needs.

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:52, 1 November 2024
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	The practice of varying the character models of characters who share a bodyform was revisited in ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)\|Transformers Animated]].'' Though [[Ratchet (Animated)\|Ratchet]] and [[Ironhide (Animated)\|Ironhide]] share a bodyform, Ratchet's character model has a paunch while Ironhide's form is more buff. [[Bumblebee (Animated)\|Bumblebee]] shares a bodyform with roughly a dozen other characters, and their bodyshapes run the gamut from [[Wasp\|skinny]] to [[Tap-Out (Animated)\|stocky]] to [[Glyph (Animated)\|curvaceous]], depending on the character's needs.		The practice of varying the character models of characters who share a bodyform was revisited in ''[[Transformers Animated (franchise)\|Transformers Animated]].'' Though [[Ratchet (Animated)\|Ratchet]] and [[Ironhide (Animated)\|Ironhide]] share a bodyform, Ratchet's character model has a paunch while Ironhide's form is more buff. [[Bumblebee (Animated)\|Bumblebee]] shares a bodyform with roughly a dozen other characters, and their bodyshapes run the gamut from [[Wasp\|skinny]] to [[Tap-Out (Animated)\|stocky]] to [[Glyph (Animated)\|curvaceous]], depending on the character's needs.

	[[File:Ratchet-charactermodel.jpg\|left~~\|upright=1.1~~\|thumb\|Guess which one can actually turn into an ambulance?<ref>'''Answer:''' Neither. While Ratchet's character model clearly can't transform into anything, Ratchet's toy transforms into a Onebox minivan ''pretending'' to be an ambulance.</ref>]]		[[File:Ratchet-charactermodel.jpg\|left\|thumb\|Guess which one can actually turn into an ambulance?<ref>'''Answer:''' Neither. While Ratchet's character model clearly can't transform into anything, Ratchet's toy transforms into a Onebox minivan ''pretending'' to be an ambulance.</ref>]]

	Character models may vary wildly from the toy itself, leading to greater or lesser degrees of "[[show-accuracy]]". Perhaps the most conspicuous examples are [[Ironhide (G1)\|Ironhide]] and [[Ratchet (G1)\|Ratchet]]. In those instances, droid-like and "alien" toys were heavily anthropomorphized in the character models, adding humanoid proportions, heads, and faces.		Character models may vary wildly from the toy itself, leading to greater or lesser degrees of "[[show-accuracy]]". Perhaps the most conspicuous examples are [[Ironhide (G1)\|Ironhide]] and [[Ratchet (G1)\|Ratchet]]. In those instances, droid-like and "alien" toys were heavily anthropomorphized in the character models, adding humanoid proportions, heads, and faces.
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	A few exceptions, such as [[Whirl (G1)\|Whirl]] and [[Roadbuster (G1)\|Roadbuster]], who only appear in the Marvel UK comics, appear to have no character models at all, and their art is based on their toys. Regardless, even in the later years of the Generation 1 franchise, the creation of character models persisted. One example is the 1989 Pretenders, whose character models are replicated faithfully by [[José Delbo]]. Even though artistic interpretations of Bludgeon, Stranglehold, and Octopunch diversified with later artists, elements taken from the character models continued, such as their individualized melee weapons. (These weapons were not included with the individual toys.)		A few exceptions, such as [[Whirl (G1)\|Whirl]] and [[Roadbuster (G1)\|Roadbuster]], who only appear in the Marvel UK comics, appear to have no character models at all, and their art is based on their toys. Regardless, even in the later years of the Generation 1 franchise, the creation of character models persisted. One example is the 1989 Pretenders, whose character models are replicated faithfully by [[José Delbo]]. Even though artistic interpretations of Bludgeon, Stranglehold, and Octopunch diversified with later artists, elements taken from the character models continued, such as their individualized melee weapons. (These weapons were not included with the individual toys.)

	[[File:Bludgeonstrangleholdoctopunchmodelsheet.jpg~~\|upright=1.1~~\|thumb\|We don't have these weapons.]]		[[File:Bludgeonstrangleholdoctopunchmodelsheet.jpg\|thumb\|We don't have these weapons.]]
	Most of the Generation 1 character designs from before 1987 were done by [[Floro Dery]]. The widely distributed model sheets of those characters may have been redrawn from his designs, or they might be his direct work. The first three years' worth of Generation 1 character models formed the basis for the artwork of Marvel's ''[[The Transformers Universe]]'' profile books. Additional profiles were later published in the back of [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|the main comic book]], showing character models for some of the 1987 and 1988 characters.		Most of the Generation 1 character designs from before 1987 were done by [[Floro Dery]]. The widely distributed model sheets of those characters may have been redrawn from his designs, or they might be his direct work. The first three years' worth of Generation 1 character models formed the basis for the artwork of Marvel's ''[[The Transformers Universe]]'' profile books. Additional profiles were later published in the back of [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|the main comic book]], showing character models for some of the 1987 and 1988 characters.

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	*The original [[Megatron (G1)\|Megatron]] character model was based not on the toy, but on early concept art for a prototype version of the figure that differed significantly from the finished article. This design—featuring a different, black-helmeted head, an alternate scope/cannon, and the gun's barrel on its back rather than its hip—was used for the very first ''Transformers'' commercial, and the first two issues of the Marvel Comic. Although the model was amended to slightly better resemble the toy before the cartoon itself was produced, much of the finished Megatron design remains rooted in the prototype.		*The original [[Megatron (G1)\|Megatron]] character model was based not on the toy, but on early concept art for a prototype version of the figure that differed significantly from the finished article. This design—featuring a different, black-helmeted head, an alternate scope/cannon, and the gun's barrel on its back rather than its hip—was used for the very first ''Transformers'' commercial, and the first two issues of the Marvel Comic. Although the model was amended to slightly better resemble the toy before the cartoon itself was produced, much of the finished Megatron design remains rooted in the prototype.
	*In 1986, the [[Aerialbot (G1)\|Aerialbots]]' character models were mostly based on simplified lineart of their toys, rather than the actual toys themselves, but this did not result in much divergence from the finished toys. The exceptions came in the form of [[Silverbolt (G1)\|Silverbolt]], whose rear-view model lacks the jet nosecone that ought to rest on his back, and [[Superion (G1)\|Superion]], whose model has a [[mouthplate]] instead of the toy's visible mouth.<ref>[http://www.ntfa.net/forums/lofiversion/index.php?t5788.html "Scramble My What?" on the NTFA forum explores the history of the Aerialbot designs]</ref>		*In 1986, the [[Aerialbot (G1)\|Aerialbots]]' character models were mostly based on simplified lineart of their toys, rather than the actual toys themselves, but this did not result in much divergence from the finished toys. The exceptions came in the form of [[Silverbolt (G1)\|Silverbolt]], whose rear-view model lacks the jet nosecone that ought to rest on his back, and [[Superion (G1)\|Superion]], whose model has a [[mouthplate]] instead of the toy's visible mouth.<ref>[http://www.ntfa.net/forums/lofiversion/index.php?t5788.html "Scramble My What?" on the NTFA forum explores the history of the Aerialbot designs]</ref>
	*Also 1986, the [[Stunticon (G1)\|Stunticons]]' models were created in a similar way to the Aerialbots, except they were based on lineart of ''prototype designs'' for the figures, which included head designs that were ''very'' different from the noggins the finished toys would ultimately have. The team's models were then subject to further design revisions, which wound up taking the designs even further away from the toys, even retaining the early head designs. The ~~end~~ result was a team of character models that looked virtually nothing like their toys. An early character model for [[Breakdown (G1)\|Breakdown]], published in ''[[Transformers: The Ark\|The Ark]]'', shows his early, concept-art-based design.<ref>[http://www.ntfa.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=5792 "Why do sports cars have square heads?", another NTFA article on the history of the Stunticons]</ref>		*Also 1986, the [[Stunticon (G1)\|Stunticons]]' models were created in a similar way to the Aerialbots, except they were based on lineart of ''prototype designs'' for the figures, which included head designs that were ''very'' different from the noggins the finished toys would ultimately have. The team's models were then subject to further design revisions, which wound up taking the designs even further away from the toys, even retaining the early head designs. The result was a team of character models that looked virtually nothing like their toys. An early character model for [[Breakdown (G1)\|Breakdown]], published in ''[[Transformers: The Ark\|The Ark]]'', shows his early, concept-art-based design.<ref>[http://www.ntfa.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=5792 "Why do sports cars have square heads?", another NTFA article on the history of the Stunticons]</ref>
	*Given that the [[Combaticon (G1)\|Combaticons]] ''also'' look nothing like their toys, it seems likely they went through the same process as the Stunticons. Early models published in both ''The Ark'' and ''[[Transformers Generations (guidebook)\|Transformers Generations]]'' show alternate designs for the whole team that are not especially any more toy-accurate in robot mode, but with much more accurate vehicle mode forms; presumably, these early designs underwent the same revision process the Stunticons did, resulting in the finished Combaticon model seen in the series. Unlike the Stunticons, however, the Combaticons early head designs ''were'' replaced with more toy-accurate ones, likely based on the toy's package art.		*Given that the [[Combaticon (G1)\|Combaticons]] ''also'' look nothing like their toys, it seems likely they went through the same process as the Stunticons. Early models published in both ''The Ark'' and ''[[Transformers Generations (guidebook)\|Transformers Generations]]'' show alternate designs for the whole team that are not especially any more toy-accurate in robot mode, but with much more accurate vehicle mode forms; presumably, these early designs underwent the same revision process the Stunticons did, resulting in the finished Combaticon model seen in the series. Unlike the Stunticons, however, the Combaticons early head designs ''were'' replaced with more toy-accurate ones, likely based on the toy's package art.

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	[[File:EvolutionSkyfire.jpg\|upright=1.4\|thumb\|Skyfire is Jetfire on 'roids.]]		[[File:EvolutionSkyfire.jpg\|upright=1.4\|thumb\|Skyfire is Jetfire on 'roids.]]
	*[[Jetfire (G1)\|Jetfire / Skyfire]] had two different character models from early Generation 1 series. The toy-accurate one appeared three times "fictionally," once as a miscolored, partially-obscured background character in the [[The Last Stand\|fourth Marvel Comics issue]], again in the Marvel Comics as a [[Ashes, Ashes...\|spectator at Optimus Prime's funeral]] (right next to his "Skyfire" model), and finally in the [[~~In the~~ Transformers\|Milton-Bradley promotional comic]]. It would also occasionally crop up in secondary media, such as coloring books and the animated portion of the commercial for Jetfire and [[Shockwave (G1)\|Shockwave]].		*[[Jetfire (G1)\|Jetfire / Skyfire]] had two different character models from early Generation 1 series. The toy-accurate one appeared three times "fictionally," once as a miscolored, partially-obscured background character in the [[The Last Stand\|fourth Marvel Comics issue]], again in the Marvel Comics as a [[Ashes, Ashes...\|spectator at Optimus Prime's funeral]] (right next to his "Skyfire" model), and finally in the [[The Transformers (Milton Bradley comic)\|The Transformers\|Milton-Bradley promotional comic]]. It would also occasionally crop up in secondary media, such as coloring books and the animated portion of the commercial for Jetfire and [[Shockwave (G1)\|Shockwave]].

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	*[[Hot Spot (G1)\|Hot Spot]] would occasionally switch between having a faceplate or having a mouth drawn '''on''' his faceplate in his appearances on the [[The Transformers (cartoon)\|original ''The Transformers'' cartoon]]. He had a mouth in "[[Ghost in the Machine (G1)\|Ghost in the Machine]]" and "[[The Ultimate Weapon]]" — episodes that seem to have been animated by two different animation companies, suggesting that Hot Spot's mouth may have come from an alternate character model.		*[[Hot Spot (G1)\|Hot Spot]] would occasionally switch between having a faceplate or having a mouth drawn '''on''' his faceplate in his appearances on the [[The Transformers (cartoon)\|original ''The Transformers'' cartoon]]. He had a mouth in "[[Ghost in the Machine (G1)\|Ghost in the Machine]]" and "[[The Ultimate Weapon]]" — episodes that seem to have been animated by two different animation companies, suggesting that Hot Spot's mouth may have come from an alternate character model.
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	[[File:G1ArceeModelComp.jpg~~\|upright=1.1~~\|thumb\|Arcee does Jenny Craig.]]		[[File:G1ArceeModelComp.jpg\|thumb\|Arcee does Jenny Craig.]]
	*''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'': Most of the cast of new characters in the movie had early versions of their character models that changed to varying degrees before the movie was animated. These character models were often used in [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|the Marvel comics]] and occasionally showed up in season 3 episodes of the television series. Since the toy design process had longer lead times, the toys were designed from the earlier models.		*''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'': Most of the cast of new characters in the movie had early versions of their character models that changed to varying degrees before the movie was animated. These character models were often used in [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)\|the Marvel comics]] and occasionally showed up in season 3 episodes of the television series. Since the toy design process had longer lead times, the toys were designed from the earlier models.
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← Older revision		Revision as of 12:05, 11 May 2024
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	File:SGRavage-EvanGauntt.jpg\|Okay, this one was on purpose.		File:SGRavage-EvanGauntt.jpg\|Okay, this one was on purpose.
	File:MPtoy-Ravage.jpg\|Someone at TakaraTomy has most likely been reading this page.		File:MPtoy-Ravage.jpg\|Someone at TakaraTomy has most likely been reading this page.
			File:Wheeljack model pose.jpg\|Wheeljack has the same "package art > character model > fiction" history as Ravage.
	File:Transfixatron.jpg\|Skywarp's standing at an angle with the far arm slightly raised and his head turned toward us, you say?		File:Transfixatron.jpg\|Skywarp's standing at an angle with the far arm slightly raised and his head turned toward us, you say?
	File:Holomegs.jpg\|Even [[hologram]]s do it.		File:Holomegs.jpg\|Even [[hologram]]s do it.