Transformers (2023) issue 5: Difference between revisions

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m →Other trivia: This issue does NOT contain a four page preview for Cobra Commander. It has ads for other comics and games instead.
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11,723 edits
→Errors: Not sure if this is a proper error or just a creative choice, but it's still not how it's supposed to be, so
 
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[[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparky]] each reflect and share their experiences in their respective wars. Sparky asks Optimus, who has seen so much more than he ever will, why it has to be like this, but Prime solemnly laments that even he isn't sure. Staring at his reflection, with [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s arm replacing his missing one, Prime wonders aloud if he's becoming the very thing he fights against.
[[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparky]] each reflect and share their experiences in their respective wars. Sparky asks Optimus, who has seen so much more than he ever will, why it has to be like this, but Prime solemnly laments that even he isn't sure. Staring at his reflection, with [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s arm replacing his missing one, Prime wonders aloud if he's becoming the very thing he fights against.


[[File:TF2023 no. 5 – Starscream chews out Reflector.jpg|left|thumb|"Calm down Refractor, it's not like you're gonna die or anything."]]
In the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'', the [[Decepticon]]s use [[Teletraan I]], now rebuilt using parts from [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]'s body, to rebuild their fellow soldiers. Upon revival, [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] is horrified to see what's become of Skywarp, but [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] reassures him that Skywarp sacrificed himself for the greater good of the Decepticons. [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] alerts [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] that the [[Autobot]]s have discovered their source of energy, so Starscream decides to lead Soundwave, Thundercracker, and the newly-revived [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] and [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]] to attack.
In the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'', the [[Decepticon]]s use [[Teletraan I]], now rebuilt using parts from [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]'s body, to rebuild their fellow soldiers. Upon revival, [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] is horrified to see what's become of Skywarp, but [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] reassures him that Skywarp sacrificed himself for the greater good of the Decepticons. [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] alerts [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] that the [[Autobot]]s have discovered their source of energy, so Starscream decides to lead Soundwave, Thundercracker, and the newly-revived [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] and [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]] to attack.


At the local dam, Sparky helps [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] and a newly revived [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (currently using only half his body due to their limited resources) to turn the water from the dam to power an [[energon]]-generating turbine. Wheeljack offers to repair Optimus, but Optimus insists on using their energy supply to help restore their fellow warriors, reviving [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] next. Arcee is happy to be back, but the Decepticons' attack interrupts the joyous occasion. [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]] tries to attack Optimus, but is swiftly blasted away by his [[fusion cannon]]. Starscream rails at Prime for taking something "precious" to the Decepticons, but Optimus balks at this, taunting that Starscream fears the cannon as he feared its previous wielder. An enraged Starscream turns his [[null-ray]]s on the water turbine and destroys it, but is ultimately forced to retreat when Prime blasts him with the fusion cannon.
At the local dam, Sparky helps [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] and a newly revived [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]] (currently using only half his body due to their limited resources) to turn the water from the dam to power an [[energon]]-generating turbine. Wheeljack offers to repair Optimus, but Optimus insists on using their energy supply to help restore their fellow warriors, reviving [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] next. Arcee is happy to be back, but the Decepticons' attack interrupts the joyous occasion. [[Reflector (G1)|Reflector]] tries to attack Optimus, but is swiftly obliterated by his [[fusion cannon]]. Frenzy fares no better after Prime smashes his skull open on the ground.  Starscream rails at Prime for taking something "precious" to the Decepticons, but Optimus balks at this, taunting that Starscream fears the cannon as he feared its previous wielder. An enraged Starscream turns his [[null-ray]]s on the water turbine and destroys it, but is ultimately forced to retreat when Prime blasts him with the fusion cannon.


With their number bolstered and the Decepticons retreating, Prime decides now to retake the ''Ark''. Sparky decides to join them and [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] asks to go as well, but both Optimus and Sparky refuse, not wanting her to get hurt like [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]]. Optimus orders the Autobots to roll out, but Cliffjumper decides to sneak Carly into his driver's seat, feeling she deserves to be there when they finally stop the Decepticons for good. Night falls as the Autobots arrive at the ''Ark'', but as they approach the ship, they are beset by a convoy of green construction vehicles. A repaired Starscream appears and gloats that he knew the Autobots would follow them back to the ship. He then orders the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] to do what they do best: merge and form [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]!
With their number bolstered and the Decepticons retreating, Prime decides now to retake the ''Ark''. Sparky decides to join them and [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] asks to go as well, but both Optimus and Sparky refuse, not wanting her to get hurt like [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]]. Optimus orders the Autobots to roll out, but Cliffjumper decides to sneak Carly into his driver's seat, feeling she deserves to be there when they finally stop the Decepticons for good. Night falls as the Autobots arrive at the ''Ark'', but as they approach the ship, they are beset by a convoy of green construction vehicles. A repaired Starscream appears and gloats that he knew the Autobots would follow them back to the ship. He then orders the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] to do what they do best: merge and form [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]!
{{--}}
{{--}}


Line 44: Line 44:
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (17)
* [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] (17)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (19)
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (19)
* [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]] (21)


|c2=
|c2=
{{collist|2|
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (6)
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] (6)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (7)
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (7)
Line 55: Line 57:
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (18)
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] (18)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (20)
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (20)
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (22)
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] (23)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (23)
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] (24)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (24)
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] (25)
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (25)
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] (26)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (26)
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] (27)
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (27)
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] (28)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (28)
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] (29)}}


|c3=
|c3=
* [[Sparkplug Witwicky|"Sparky" Witwicky]] (1)
* [[Sparkplug Witwicky|"Sparky" Witwicky]] (1)
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (16)
* [[Carly (G1)|Carly]] (16)
* ''[[Jimmy Witwicky]]'' (21)
* ''[[Jimmy Witwicky]]'' (22)
}}
}}


Line 72: Line 74:
"It is good to be back in focus, Starscream! Where is Meg--" <br>
"It is good to be back in focus, Starscream! Where is Meg--" <br>
"Stay focused on the ''enemy'', Reflector! These filthy Autobots want to take what makes our pistons move freely!"
"Stay focused on the ''enemy'', Reflector! These filthy Autobots want to take what makes our pistons move freely!"
:—'''Reflector''' and '''Starscream'''
:—'''Reflector''' accidentally gets on '''Starscream''''s nerves.
 
 
"How many of [[Seeker (body-type)| those planes]] '''are''' there?" <br>
"Too many--"
:—'''Carly''' and '''Cliffjumper''' are tired of all the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]] [[redeco]]s.




"I don't know who you are, but if ''Optimus'' cares about you-- then ''I'' care, too."
"I don't know who you are, but if ''Optimus'' cares about you-- then ''I'' care, too."
:—'''Arcee''', rescuing Carly
:—'''Arcee''', rescuing Carly
"Prepare yourselves for '''ISO''', Autobots!!! '''I'''nstant '''S'''uffering and '''O'''blitera- Oh- ''Oh dear.''"
:—'''Reflector''' realizes how fragged he is.




Line 86: Line 97:
===Continuity notes===
===Continuity notes===
* We once again get flashbacks to Sparky's experiences in the war and the death of Jimmy Witwicky, both of which we saw in the opening pages of [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|issue #1]]. This issue also gives us our first proper look at Jimmy in a flashback panel to right before his launch.
* We once again get flashbacks to Sparky's experiences in the war and the death of Jimmy Witwicky, both of which we saw in the opening pages of [[Transformers (2023) issue 1|issue #1]]. This issue also gives us our first proper look at Jimmy in a flashback panel to right before his launch.
* Optimus lost his arm back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 3|issue #3]] during his fight with Skywarp, with Ratchet replacing it with Megatron's in the last issue after taking it from the ''Ark'' back in issue #1.
* Optimus lost his arm back in [[Transformers (2023) issue 3|issue #3]] during his fight with Skywarp, with Ratchet replacing it with Megatron's in the last issue after taking it from the ''Ark'' back in issue #1. This also affects his vehicle mode, with one corner of the truck cab being grey and the fusion cannon replacing the smokestack.
* Ravage was shot by Optimus back in issue #1. At the time, it was not confirmed if he survived, but here it's revealed that he was only injured.
* We get more hints about what happened to Megatron before the crash of the ''Ark'', with Optimus saying he last saw Starscream cowering before Megatron’s fusion cannon.
* We get more hints about what happened to Megatron before the crash of the ''Ark'', with Optimus saying he last saw Starscream cowering before Megatron’s fusion cannon.
* Optimus still seems to be reluctant to use Megatron's fusion cannon - he can be seen wielding his traditional [[ion blaster]] in the early parts of the dam fight. He drops it to obliterate Reflector with the cannon.


===Transformers references===
===Transformers references===
* Arcee and Ratchet are shown to have a close relationship, not unlike their [[Transformers Animated (cartoon)|''Animated'']] counterparts.
* Arcee and Ratchet are shown to have a close relationship, not unlike their [[Transformers Animated (cartoon)|''Animated'']] counterparts.
* Long Haul has the same vehicle form as his [[Long Haul (ROTF)|movie iteration.]]


===Real-world references===
===Real-world references===
* Jazz continues his use of musical references in his speech.
* Jazz continues his use of musical references in his speech.
* Almost all of Reflector's speech is comprised of photography puns, including a fun new meaning for the abbreviation 'ISO'. (Which actually stands for International Organization for Standardization and relates to the sensitivity of a camera's sensor.)
* Almost all of Reflector's speech is comprised of photography puns, including a fun new meaning for the abbreviation 'ISO'. (Which actually stands for International Organization for Standardization and relates to the sensitivity of a camera's sensor.)
* Reflector and Long Haul are each branded with logos saying Zony and Kat respectively. An obvious play on words for the real-life companies The Sony Corporation and Caterpillar Inc.
* Instead of a nondescript futuristic car, Arcee's alternate mode resembles a 2023 {{w|Lamborghini Revuelto}}.


===Errors===
===Errors===
* In a flashback to the war on Cybertron, Optimus is seen cradling a bot with details that mark him as being [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]]. However, he is miscolored white and red.
* In a flashback to the war on Cybertron, Optimus is seen cradling a bot with details that mark him as being [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]]. However, he is miscolored white and red.
* As the Decepticons attack the dam, an Autobot lies ready to be reactivated who is colored like [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] but appears to actually be [[Trailbreaker (G1)|Trailbreaker]].
* In the same flashback, Bumblebee is shown alongside Optimus, but while he retains his yellow color scheme, his character model is Cliffjumper's.
* As the Decepticons attack the dam, an offline Trailbreaker lies ready to be reactivated, but he's colored like [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]].
* When Devastator is rising as the Constructicons finish merging, Scavenger's shovel arm is drawn coming out of the combiner's back, as if it was a part of Hook instead.


===Other trivia===
===Other trivia===
* The digital release of this issue was delayed by a week, meaning that physical customers got it a week early.
* The digital release of this issue was delayed by a week, meaning that physical customers got it a week early.


===Covers===
===Covers (9)===
* '''Cover A:''' Optimus sees his reflection in Megatron’s fusion cannon, by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover A:''' Optimus sees his reflection in Megatron's fusion cannon, by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer.
* '''Cover B:''' Teletraan-1 reactivates the Decepticons, by [[James Stokoe]].
* '''Cover B:''' Teletraan-1 reactivates the Decepticons, by [[James Stokoe]].
* '''Cover C (1:10 Copy Incentive):''' Connecting cover by [[Orlando Aroecena]].
* '''Cover C (1:10 Copy Incentive):''' Connecting cover by [[Orlando Arocena]].
* '''Cover D (1:25 Copy Incentive):''' Cliffjumper and Carly stand in Starscream’s shadow, by [[Natacha Bustos]].
* '''Cover D (1:25 Copy Incentive):''' Cliffjumper and Carly stand in Starscream's shadow, by [[Natacha Bustos]].
* '''Cover E (1:50 Copy Incentive):''' Optimus wields the might of Megatron’s arm and cannon, by [[Karl Kerschl]].
* '''Cover E (1:50 Copy Incentive):''' Optimus wields the might of Megatron's arm and cannon, by [[Karl Kerschl]].
* '''Second Printing Cover A:''' Arcee, by [[Jason Howard]].
* '''Second Printing Cover B:''' Thundercracker, by Jason Howard.
* '''Third Printing Cover:''' Optimus stands his ground, by [[Gerald Parel]] & [[Frédéric Pham Chuong]].
* '''Fourth Printing Cover:''' The Decepticons looking sinister, by [[Tan Juan Gee]].


<gallery>
<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 5 Cover A.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 5 Cover A.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 5 Cover B.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 5 Cover B.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 5 Cover C.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 5 Cover C.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 5 Cover D.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 5 Cover D.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 5 Cover E.jpg|
File:Transformers 2023 5 Cover E.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 5 2nd Ptg Cover A.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 5 2nd Ptg Cover B.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 5 3rd Ptg Cover.jpg
File:Transformers 2023 5 4th Ptg Cover.jpg
</gallery>
</gallery>


===Advertisements===
===Advertisements===
* The [[Cobra]] threat begins in ''[[Cobra Commander (comic)|Cobra Commander]]'' [[Cobra Commander issue 1|#1]]!
* The [[Cobra]] threat begins in ''[[Cobra Commander (comic)|Cobra Commander]]'' [[Cobra Commander issue 1|#1]]!
* Explore the Energon Universe in [[Cobra Commander issue 2|''Cobra Commander'' #2]], ''[[Duke (comic)|Duke]]'' [[Duke issue 3|#3]], and ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 7|#7]].
* Explore the Energon Universe in ''Cobra Commander'' [[Cobra Commander issue 2|#2]], ''[[Duke (comic)|Duke]]'' [[Duke issue 3|#3]], and ''[[Void Rivals]]'' [[Void Rivals issue 7|#7]].
* [[Renegade Game Studios]]' ''[[Transformers Deck-Building Game]]'', ''[[Transformers Roleplaying Game]]'', ''G.I. Joe Deck-Building Game'', and ''G.I. Joe Roleplaying Game''
* [[Renegade Game Studios]]' ''[[Transformers Deck-Building Game]]'', ''[[Transformers Roleplaying Game]]'', ''G.I. Joe Deck-Building Game'', and ''G.I. Joe Roleplaying Game''
* ''Invincible: Escape From Mars''
* ''Invincible: Escape From Mars''
Line 126: Line 152:


===Reprints===
===Reprints===
* '''''Transformers Volume 1: Robots in Disguise''''' <small>([[May 7]], [[2024]]) ISBN 1534398171 / ISBN 978-1534398177 </small>
* '''''Transformers Volume 1: Robots in Disguise''''' <small>([[May 8]], [[2024]]) ISBN 1534398171 / ISBN 978-1534398177</small>
** Collects issues #1-6.
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #1–6.
** Trade paperback format.
** Trade paperback format.
** Variant covers:
*** '''Blackbird Comics & Coffeehouse Exclusive:''' by [[Matthew Allison]]. Limited to 300 copies. <small>ISBN 978-1534327818</small>
*** '''Comics Etc. Exclusive:''' by [[Stewart McKenny]] & [[John Law]]. Limited to 300 copies.
*** '''Direct Market Exclusive:''' by [[Jonboy Meyers]]. Exclusively sold through the comic book direct market. <small>ISBN 978-1534327726</small>
*** '''Gotham City Limit Exclusive:''' by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer. Limited to 300 copies. <small>ISBN 978-1534327771</small>
*** '''Jonathan Comics Exclusive:''' by [[Jason Howard]]. Limited to 300 copies.
*** '''Things From Another World Exclusive:''' by [[Frédéric Pham Chuong]]. Limited to 400 copies. <small>ISBN 978-1534327887</small>
*** '''TopShelfComic Fan Expo Dallas Exclusive:''' by [[Pasquale Ferrara]]. Limited to 300 copies.
* '''''Transformers Deluxe Edition Book 1''''' <small>([[April 30]], [[2025]]) ISBN 1534328238 / ISBN 978-1534328235</small>
** Collects ''Transformers'' issues #1–12.
** Hardcover format.
** Variant covers:
*** '''Bookdelivery Exclusive:''' by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer. Limited to 200 copies. <small>ISBN 978-1534328679</small>
*** '''Direct Market Exclusive:''' by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer. Exclusively sold through the comic book direct market. <small>ISBN 978-1534329607</small>
*** '''[[Hasbro Pulse]] Exclusive:''' by [[Tom Whalen]]. <small>ISBN 978-1534398414</small>
*** '''TopShelfComic Exclusive:''' by [[Marcelo Matere]]. Limited to 200 copies.


<gallery>
<gallery>
File:Transformers 2023 V1.jpg|'''''Volume 1: Robots in Disguise''''' – cover art by [[Daniel Warren Johnson]] and [[Mike Spicer]]
File:Transformers 2023 V1.jpg|'''''Volume 1: Robots in Disguise''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer
File:Transformers 2023 V1 Blackbird Comics & Coffeehouse Cover.jpg|'''''Volume 1: Robots in Disguise'' Blackbird Comics & Coffeehouse Exclusive''' – cover art by [[Matthew Allison]]
File:Transformers 2023 V1 Comics Etc. Cover.jpg|'''''Volume 1: Robots in Disguise'' Comics Etc. Exclusive''' – cover art by [[Stewart McKenny]] & [[John Law]]
File:Transformers 2023 V1 DM Cover.jpg|'''''Volume 1: Robots in Disguise'' Direct Market Exclusive''' – cover art by [[Jonboy Meyers]]
File:Transformers 2023 V1 Gotham City Limit Cover.jpg|'''''Volume 1: Robots in Disguise'' Gotham City Limit Exclusive''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer
File:Transformers 2023 V1 Jonathan Comics Cover.jpg|'''''Volume 1: Robots in Disguise'' Jonathan Comics Exclusive''' – cover art by [[Jason Howard]]
File:Transformers 2023 V1 Things From Another World Cover.jpg|'''''Volume 1: Robots in Disguise'' Things From Another World Exclusive''' – cover art by [[Frédéric Pham Chuong]]
File:Transformers 2023 V1 Pasquale Ferrara Cover.jpg|'''''Volume 1: Robots in Disguise'' TopShelfComic Fan Expo Dallas Exclusive''' – cover art by [[Pasquale Ferrara]]
File:Transformers 2023 B1.jpg|'''''Deluxe Edition Book 1''''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer
File:Transformers 2023 B1 Bookdelivery Cover.jpg|'''''Deluxe Edition Book 1'' Bookdelivery Exclusive''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer
File:Transformers 2023 B1 DM Cover.jpg|'''''Deluxe Edition Book 1'' Direct Market Exclusive''' – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer
File:Transformers 2023 B1 Hasbro Pulse Cover.jpg|'''''Deluxe Edition Book 1'' [[Hasbro Pulse]] Exclusive''' – cover art by [[Tom Whalen]]
File:Transformers 2023 B1 TopShelfComic Cover.jpg|'''''Deluxe Edition Book 1'' TopShelfComic Exclusive''' – cover art by [[Marcelo Matere]]
</gallery>
</gallery>


==External links==
*
==References==
{{reflist|2}}


[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]
[[Category:Transformers (2023) issues]]

Latest revision as of 02:00, 12 May 2026

« Transformers #5 »

Now this... is PEAK.
Publisher Image Comics
Skybound Entertainment
First published February 14, 2024 (physical)
February 21, 2024 (digital)
Cover date February 2024
Written by Daniel Warren Johnson
Art by Daniel Warren Johnson
Colors by Mike Spicer
Letters by Rus Wooton
Editors Sean Mackiewicz & Jonathan Manning
Continuity Energon Universe

The ranks of Autobots and Decepticons grow as each side prepares to mount an offensive against their enemies.

Synopsis

[edit]

Optimus Prime and Sparky each reflect and share their experiences in their respective wars. Sparky asks Optimus, who has seen so much more than he ever will, why it has to be like this, but Prime solemnly laments that even he isn't sure. Staring at his reflection, with Megatron's arm replacing his missing one, Prime wonders aloud if he's becoming the very thing he fights against.

File:TF2023 no. 5 – Starscream chews out Reflector.jpg
"Calm down Refractor, it's not like you're gonna die or anything."

In the Ark, the Decepticons use Teletraan I, now rebuilt using parts from Skywarp's body, to rebuild their fellow soldiers. Upon revival, Thundercracker is horrified to see what's become of Skywarp, but Starscream reassures him that Skywarp sacrificed himself for the greater good of the Decepticons. Laserbeak alerts Soundwave that the Autobots have discovered their source of energy, so Starscream decides to lead Soundwave, Thundercracker, and the newly-revived Frenzy and Reflector to attack.

At the local dam, Sparky helps Ratchet and a newly revived Wheeljack (currently using only half his body due to their limited resources) to turn the water from the dam to power an energon-generating turbine. Wheeljack offers to repair Optimus, but Optimus insists on using their energy supply to help restore their fellow warriors, reviving Arcee next. Arcee is happy to be back, but the Decepticons' attack interrupts the joyous occasion. Reflector tries to attack Optimus, but is swiftly obliterated by his fusion cannon. Frenzy fares no better after Prime smashes his skull open on the ground. Starscream rails at Prime for taking something "precious" to the Decepticons, but Optimus balks at this, taunting that Starscream fears the cannon as he feared its previous wielder. An enraged Starscream turns his null-rays on the water turbine and destroys it, but is ultimately forced to retreat when Prime blasts him with the fusion cannon.

With their number bolstered and the Decepticons retreating, Prime decides now to retake the Ark. Sparky decides to join them and Carly asks to go as well, but both Optimus and Sparky refuse, not wanting her to get hurt like Spike. Optimus orders the Autobots to roll out, but Cliffjumper decides to sneak Carly into his driver's seat, feeling she deserves to be there when they finally stop the Decepticons for good. Night falls as the Autobots arrive at the Ark, but as they approach the ship, they are beset by a convoy of green construction vehicles. A repaired Starscream appears and gloats that he knew the Autobots would follow them back to the ship. He then orders the Constructicons to do what they do best: merge and form Devastator!

[edit]

Characters in italic text appear only in flashbacks.
(Numbers indicate order of appearance.)

Autobots Decepticons Humans

Quotes

[edit]

"It is good to be back in focus, Starscream! Where is Meg--"
"Stay focused on the enemy, Reflector! These filthy Autobots want to take what makes our pistons move freely!"

—Reflector accidentally gets on Starscream's nerves.


"How many of those planes are there?"
"Too many--"

—Carly and Cliffjumper are tired of all the Seeker redecos.


"I don't know who you are, but if Optimus cares about you-- then I care, too."

—Arcee, rescuing Carly


"Prepare yourselves for ISO, Autobots!!! Instant Suffering and Oblitera- Oh- Oh dear."

—Reflector realizes how fragged he is.


"YOU! Taking something so precious and using it for your own evil purpose!"
"'Precious'? Are you sure this doesn't make you quake in your jets, Starscream? Last I remember, you were cowering in front of this very weapon. A constant reminder of what you'll never be."

—Starscream and Optimus, on Megatron's fusion cannon

Notes

[edit]

Continuity notes

[edit]
  • We once again get flashbacks to Sparky's experiences in the war and the death of Jimmy Witwicky, both of which we saw in the opening pages of issue #1. This issue also gives us our first proper look at Jimmy in a flashback panel to right before his launch.
  • Optimus lost his arm back in issue #3 during his fight with Skywarp, with Ratchet replacing it with Megatron's in the last issue after taking it from the Ark back in issue #1. This also affects his vehicle mode, with one corner of the truck cab being grey and the fusion cannon replacing the smokestack.
  • Ravage was shot by Optimus back in issue #1. At the time, it was not confirmed if he survived, but here it's revealed that he was only injured.
  • We get more hints about what happened to Megatron before the crash of the Ark, with Optimus saying he last saw Starscream cowering before Megatron’s fusion cannon.
  • Optimus still seems to be reluctant to use Megatron's fusion cannon - he can be seen wielding his traditional ion blaster in the early parts of the dam fight. He drops it to obliterate Reflector with the cannon.

Transformers references

[edit]
  • Arcee and Ratchet are shown to have a close relationship, not unlike their Animated counterparts.
  • Long Haul has the same vehicle form as his movie iteration.

Real-world references

[edit]
  • Jazz continues his use of musical references in his speech.
  • Almost all of Reflector's speech is comprised of photography puns, including a fun new meaning for the abbreviation 'ISO'. (Which actually stands for International Organization for Standardization and relates to the sensitivity of a camera's sensor.)
  • Reflector and Long Haul are each branded with logos saying Zony and Kat respectively. An obvious play on words for the real-life companies The Sony Corporation and Caterpillar Inc.
  • Instead of a nondescript futuristic car, Arcee's alternate mode resembles a 2023 Lamborghini Revuelto.

Errors

[edit]
  • In a flashback to the war on Cybertron, Optimus is seen cradling a bot with details that mark him as being Perceptor. However, he is miscolored white and red.
  • In the same flashback, Bumblebee is shown alongside Optimus, but while he retains his yellow color scheme, his character model is Cliffjumper's.
  • As the Decepticons attack the dam, an offline Trailbreaker lies ready to be reactivated, but he's colored like Beachcomber.
  • When Devastator is rising as the Constructicons finish merging, Scavenger's shovel arm is drawn coming out of the combiner's back, as if it was a part of Hook instead.

Other trivia

[edit]
  • The digital release of this issue was delayed by a week, meaning that physical customers got it a week early.

Covers (9)

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  • Cover A: Optimus sees his reflection in Megatron's fusion cannon, by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer.
  • Cover B: Teletraan-1 reactivates the Decepticons, by James Stokoe.
  • Cover C (1:10 Copy Incentive): Connecting cover by Orlando Arocena.
  • Cover D (1:25 Copy Incentive): Cliffjumper and Carly stand in Starscream's shadow, by Natacha Bustos.
  • Cover E (1:50 Copy Incentive): Optimus wields the might of Megatron's arm and cannon, by Karl Kerschl.
  • Second Printing Cover A: Arcee, by Jason Howard.
  • Second Printing Cover B: Thundercracker, by Jason Howard.
  • Third Printing Cover: Optimus stands his ground, by Gerald Parel & Frédéric Pham Chuong.
  • Fourth Printing Cover: The Decepticons looking sinister, by Tan Juan Gee.

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Reprints

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  • Transformers Volume 1: Robots in Disguise (May 8, 2024) ISBN 1534398171 / ISBN 978-1534398177
    • Collects Transformers issues #1–6.
    • Trade paperback format.
    • Variant covers:
      • Blackbird Comics & Coffeehouse Exclusive: by Matthew Allison. Limited to 300 copies. ISBN 978-1534327818
      • Comics Etc. Exclusive: by Stewart McKenny & John Law. Limited to 300 copies.
      • Direct Market Exclusive: by Jonboy Meyers. Exclusively sold through the comic book direct market. ISBN 978-1534327726
      • Gotham City Limit Exclusive: by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer. Limited to 300 copies. ISBN 978-1534327771
      • Jonathan Comics Exclusive: by Jason Howard. Limited to 300 copies.
      • Things From Another World Exclusive: by Frédéric Pham Chuong. Limited to 400 copies. ISBN 978-1534327887
      • TopShelfComic Fan Expo Dallas Exclusive: by Pasquale Ferrara. Limited to 300 copies.
  • Transformers Deluxe Edition Book 1 (April 30, 2025) ISBN 1534328238 / ISBN 978-1534328235
    • Collects Transformers issues #1–12.
    • Hardcover format.
    • Variant covers:
      • Bookdelivery Exclusive: by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer. Limited to 200 copies. ISBN 978-1534328679
      • Direct Market Exclusive: by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer. Exclusively sold through the comic book direct market. ISBN 978-1534329607
      • Hasbro Pulse Exclusive: by Tom Whalen. ISBN 978-1534398414
      • TopShelfComic Exclusive: by Marcelo Matere. Limited to 200 copies.
  • Volume 1: Robots in Disguise – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer
    Volume 1: Robots in Disguise – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer
  • Volume 1: Robots in Disguise Blackbird Comics & Coffeehouse Exclusive – cover art by Matthew Allison
    Volume 1: Robots in Disguise Blackbird Comics & Coffeehouse Exclusive – cover art by Matthew Allison
  • Volume 1: Robots in Disguise Comics Etc. Exclusive – cover art by Stewart McKenny & John Law
    Volume 1: Robots in Disguise Comics Etc. Exclusive – cover art by Stewart McKenny & John Law
  • Volume 1: Robots in Disguise Direct Market Exclusive – cover art by Jonboy Meyers
    Volume 1: Robots in Disguise Direct Market Exclusive – cover art by Jonboy Meyers
  • Volume 1: Robots in Disguise Gotham City Limit Exclusive – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer
    Volume 1: Robots in Disguise Gotham City Limit Exclusive – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer
  • Volume 1: Robots in Disguise Jonathan Comics Exclusive – cover art by Jason Howard
    Volume 1: Robots in Disguise Jonathan Comics Exclusive – cover art by Jason Howard
  • Volume 1: Robots in Disguise Things From Another World Exclusive – cover art by Frédéric Pham Chuong
    Volume 1: Robots in Disguise Things From Another World Exclusive – cover art by Frédéric Pham Chuong
  • Volume 1: Robots in Disguise TopShelfComic Fan Expo Dallas Exclusive – cover art by Pasquale Ferrara
    Volume 1: Robots in Disguise TopShelfComic Fan Expo Dallas Exclusive – cover art by Pasquale Ferrara
  • Deluxe Edition Book 1 – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer
    Deluxe Edition Book 1 – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer
  • Deluxe Edition Book 1 Bookdelivery Exclusive – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer
    Deluxe Edition Book 1 Bookdelivery Exclusive – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer
  • Deluxe Edition Book 1 Direct Market Exclusive – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer
    Deluxe Edition Book 1 Direct Market Exclusive – cover art by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer
  • Deluxe Edition Book 1 Hasbro Pulse Exclusive – cover art by Tom Whalen
    Deluxe Edition Book 1 Hasbro Pulse Exclusive – cover art by Tom Whalen
  • Deluxe Edition Book 1 TopShelfComic Exclusive – cover art by Marcelo Matere
    Deluxe Edition Book 1 TopShelfComic Exclusive – cover art by Marcelo Matere
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