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{{comicstory|seriesissue=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|''The Transformers'' (US)]] #65
{{comicstory|seriesissue=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|''The Transformers'' (US)]] #65
|prev=Deadly Obsession
|prev=Deadly Obsession
|next=All Fall Down (issue)
|next=All Fall Down
|title=Dark Creation
|title="Dark Creation"
|seriesissue2=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|''The Transformers'' (UK)]] #290–293
|seriesissue2=[[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|''The Transformers'' (UK)]] #290–293
|prev2=End of the Road! (UK)
|prev2=End of the Road! (UK)
|next2=All Fall Down (issue)
|next2=All Fall Down
|image=MarvelUS-65.jpg
|image=MarvelUS-65.jpg
|caption=Get away from me, you GLITCH!
|caption=Get away from me, you GLITCH!
|publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]
|publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]
|date=February 1990
|shippingdate=[[February 27]], [[1990]]
|onsaledate=[[March 20]], 1990
|coverdate=April 1990
|coverdate=April 1990
|writer=[[Simon Furman]]
|writer=[[Simon Furman]]
Line 18: Line 19:
|continuity=[[Marvel Comics continuity]]
|continuity=[[Marvel Comics continuity]]
}}
}}
'''In space, no one can hear you transform.'''
'''In space, no one can hear you transform.'''


==Synopsis==
==Synopsis==
And so, the true history of the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]] after it left Earth in Prime's body unfolds. Crash landing on a barren moon, the Matrix lies inactive until a Kevorkian-droid crashes nearby as well, on the edge of death. Revitalized, the mechanoid who once brought death only to the terminally ill becomes willing and able to take all life in its path. The Matrix maintains a psychic link with the Deathbringer after it departs, and experiences new sensations through the being, such as pain, terror, and evil. It becomes... curious.
[[File:DarkCreation we would know more.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.5]]
And so, the true history of the [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]] after it left Earth in [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]]'s body unfolds. Crash landing on the barren moon [[VsQs]], the Matrix lies inactive until a droid crashes nearby as well, on the edge of death. Revitalized, the mechanoid who once brought death only to the terminally ill becomes willing and able to take all life in its path. The Matrix maintains a psychic link with the [[Deathbringer (Marvel)|Deathbringer]] after it departs, and experiences new sensations through the being, such as pain, terror, and evil. It becomes... curious.


Next, a small and parasitic creature crawls into Prime's dead chest and is exposed to the Matrix's power. Recognizing the creature as a predator that kills victims which are neither food nor enemy, the Matrix becomes fascinated by the nature of evil. To experiment with more sensations, it recreates the creature into a larger and more deadly form, something that curious scientists from the [[VsQs]] research station learn to their eternal lament.
Next, a [[Matrixspawn|small predatory creature]] crawls into Prime's dead chest and is exposed to the Matrix's power. Recognizing the creature as a predator that kills victims which are neither food nor enemy, the Matrix becomes fascinated by the nature of evil. To experiment with more sensations, it recreates the creature into a larger and more deadly form, something that [[VsQs Exploration Team|curious scientists]] from [[Cameron]] [[Cameron Space Control|Space Control]] learn to their eternal lament.


FACEHUGGERS! BLAUGH!
Cut to the present. The [[Classic Pretender]]s are exploring what remains of the VsQs exploration habitat. As [[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Bumblebee]] uncovers the survey logs, which end abruptly after the first encounter with Optimus Prime's funeral barge and the [[Matrixspawn]], [[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] returns from exploring the ruins. He's found the research team... what's left of them. While the Autobots are pondering their options, [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] suddenly crashes through the window, demanding they hand over the Matrix to him.


Cut to the present. The [[Classic Pretender|Classic Pretenders]] are exploring what remains of the VsQs exploration habitat. As Bumblebee uncovers the survey logs, which end abruptly after the first encounter with Prime's funeral barge and the Matrix-spawn, Grimlock returns from exploring the ruins. He's found the research team... what's left of them. While the Autobots are pondering their options, Thunderwing suddenly crashes through the window, demanding they hand over the Matrix to him.  
Back at Thunderwing's ship, [[Ruckus (G1)|Ruckus]] is monologuing to himself about how unfair it is that he's stuck on guard duty. He contends (to himself, still) that being backhanded across the room by Thunderwing should've been punishment enough. Little does he realize that his impact shook loose a circuit, sending an electrical surge through the [[Mind Leech]] technology holding the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] prisoners in stasis.


Back at Thunderwing's ship, Ruckus is monologuing to himself about how unfair it is that he's stuck on guard duty. He contends (to himself, still) that being backhanded across the room by Thunderwing should've been punishment enough. Little does he realize that his impact shook loose a circuit, sending an electrical surge through the [[Mind Leech]] technology holding the [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] prisoners in stasis.
[[File:Dark Creation Matrix Spawn about to eat Windsweeper.jpg|thumb|upright=1.2|"What about our lives, you son of a glitch?"<br>"I repeat: All other priorities are rescinded."]]
In the research station, [[Jazz (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Jazz]] makes a vain attempt to reason with Thunderwing before he crushes Bumblebee's neck, but Grimlock just hauls off and slugs him. As Thunderwing's [[Decepticon]] warriors join the fight, [[Windsweeper]] sees how outnumbered the Autobots are and decides to just hang back in the shadows and let the other Decepticons do the work. This strategy works pretty well until the Matrixspawn grabs him from behind with its tail and begins pulling him up to the rafters.


In the research station, Jazz makes a vain attempt to reason with Thunderwing before he crushes Bumblebee's neck, but Grimlock just hauls off and slugs him. As Thunderwing's [[Decepticon]] warriors join the fight, Windsweeper sees how outnumbered the Autobots are and decides to just hang back in the shadows and let the other 'Cons do the work. This strategy works pretty well until the Matrix-spawn grabs him from behind with its tail and begins pulling him up to the rafters.
Meanwhile, off the coast of [[United Kingdom|England]], a [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|shadowy figure dressed all in purple, and with only one eye]], emerges from the waters. Their monologuing is witnesssed by a solitary human, who they decree must be silenced. But WHO could it be...?


Meanwhile, off the coast of England, a shadowy figure dressed all in purple, and with only one eye, emerges from the waters. But WHO could it be...?
On VsQs, the Decepticons notice Windsweeper is missing, and spot the creature about ready to devour him. [[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] draws a bead on the Matrixspawn to kill it and save his comrade, but Thunderwing shoves him out of the way when he recognizes the Matrix energy dripping from the creature. Afraid of being separated from its vessel, the Matrix bids it to retreat. Thunderwing takes off in hot pursuit, leaving some very chagrined Decepticon troopers wondering just how far gone their leader is.


On VsQs, the Decepticons notice Windsweeper is missing, and spot the creature about ready to devour him. Needlenose draws a bead on the Matrix-spawn to kill it and save his comrade, but Thunderwing shoves him out of the way when he recognizes the Matrix energy dripping from the creature. Afraid of being separated from its vessel, the Matrix bids it to retreat. Thunderwing takes off in hot pursuit, leaving some very chagrined Decepticon troopers wondering just how far gone their leader is.
As the Pretenders regroup, they realize the moon's heavy gravity is beginning to have an effect on them; it seems they had been burning extra [[energon]] over the last few hours to compensate, which only means that now they're low on fuel reserves. Chasing after the creature as best they can, the [[Autobot]]s are caught between Thunderwing and the Matrixspawn as they battle for the right to possess the Matrix. Bumblebee, all-but dry of energy, reaches slowly towards the Matrix as their enemies fight to the death and...


As the Pretenders regroup, they realize the moon's heavy gravity is beginning to have an effect on them; it seems they had been burning extra [[Energon (fuel)|energon]] over the last few hours to compensate, which only means that now they're low on fuel reserves. Chasing after the creature as best they can, the [[Autobot|Autobots]] are caught between Thunderwing and the Matrix-spawn as they battle for the right to possess the Matrix. Bumblebee, all-but dry of energy, reaches slowly towards the Matrix as their enemies fight to the death and...
At the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]], the Classic Pretenders' [[Ark shuttlecraft|shuttle]] is coming in for a smooth landing, and Optimus Prime eagerly goes to meet the conquering heroes and reclaim their prize. The laugh's on him though, as Thunderwing steps forth from the shuttle wielding the power of the Matrix as his own.
 
{{--}}
Cut to the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]]. The Classic Pretenders' [[Ark shuttlecraft|shuttle]] is coming in for a smooth landing, and Optimus Prime eagerly goes to meet the conquering heroes and reclaim their prize. The laugh's on him though, as Thunderwing steps forth from the shuttle wielding the power of the Matrix as his own.


==Featured characters==
==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters
{{featuredcharacters
|c1=
|c1=
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] (3)
*[[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] (3)
* [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] (4)
*[[Jazz (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Jazz]] (5)
* [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] (5)
*[[Bumblebee (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Bumblebee]] (6)
* [[Emirate Xaaron]] (4)
*[[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] (7)
* [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] (12)
*[[Hosehead (G1)|Hosehead]] (10)
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] (13)
*[[Nightbeat (G1)|Nightbeat]] (11)
*[[Siren (G1)|Siren]] (12)
*[[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Hot Rod]] (19)
|c2=
|c2=
* [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] (6)
*[[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]] (8)
* [[Ruckus (G1)|Ruckus]] (7)
*[[Ruckus (G1)|Ruckus]] (9)
* [[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] (8)
*[[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] (13)
* [[Needlenose]] (9)
*[[Needlenose (G1)|Needlenose]] (14)
* [[Windsweeper]] (10)
*[[Windsweeper]] (15)
* [[Shockwave (G1)|A shadowy figure]] (11)
*[[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shadowy figure]] (18)
|c3=
*[[Patch's owner]] (17)
|c4=
|c4=
* [[Matrix of Leadership|Creation Matrix]] (1)
*[[Matrix of Leadership|Creation Matrix]]/[[Dark Matrix]] (1)
* [[Deathbringer (species)|Deathbringer]] (2)
*[[Deathbringer (Marvel)|Deathbringer]] (2)
*[[Matrixspawn]] (4)
*[[Patch (G1)|Patch]] (16)
}}
}}


==Items of note==
==Quotes==
* ''Part 4 of the [[Matrix Quest]]''.
"We are '''Primus'''. We are '''Prima'''. We are '''Prime Nova'''. We are '''Sentinel Prime'''. We are '''Optimus Prime'''. '''''We are Creation Matrix!''''' We know pleasure, purity--'''goodness'''. But we would know... '''more'''."
* This is the first fictional mention of [[Prima]], [[Prime Nova]], and [[Sentinel Prime (G1)|Sentinel Prime]], although Prima and Sentinel Prime were previously depicted in US issue [[Primal Scream|#61]] and UK issue [[The Legacy of Unicron!|#150]], respectively, as unnamed characters.
:—The '''Creation Matrix''' monologues, ominously
* Though it isn't confirmed until later, the Autobot Classic Pretenders lose their shells as of this issue.
 
* The assorted creatures in this story are obviously inspired in part by the critters from the [[Wikipedia:Alien (franchise)|''Alien'' film series]], particularly the "[[Wikipedia:Facehugger|facehugger]]". Given that, the name of the moon, "VsQs," may be an homage to [[Wikipedia:List of characters in the Alien series|PFC Vasquez]] from ''[[Wikipedia:Aliens (film)|Aliens]]'' and the name of the planet it orbits, "Cameron", is certainly an homage to [[Wikipedia:James Cameron|James Cameron]], the director of that film.
 
* ''[[Transformers Universe (Marvel comic)|Transformers Universe]]'' profiles for [[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] and [[Windsweeper]] are found after the main story.
"'''Pah'''! Fed up with '''weaklings''' crying about Unicron! Give me back my '''Dinobots''' and we '''kick butt!'''"<br>
"Of '''course!''' It's so '''obvious!''' Why didn't any of us see this before? Except -- without the Matrix, how do you expect to '''revive''' the Dinobots? '''Sheesh!'''"
:—'''Grimlock''' and '''Jazz'''
 
 
"Don't '''talk''' -- '''''HIT!''''"
:—'''Grimlock''' explains his nuanced approach to dealing with Thunderwing
 
 
"Interesting. I almost '''felt''' that."
:—A full-force punch from Grimlock fails to impress '''Thunderwing'''
 
 
"'''''AAAAH!''''' '''It's got me! It's got me!''' ...Ah ha. Well... the '''floor's''' got me, actually."
:—'''Jazz''' takes a tumble through a decaying deck
 
 
"You reckon we should go after Thunderwing, help out?"<br>
"Nah, it's '''his''' fight -- he's made that plenty clear to us already! Anyway, he doesn't care about what happens to us -- why should '''we''' worry about '''him?''' If Thunderwing beats the creature, the Autobots -- that's fine by me. If he dies -- '''I'll send flowers!'''"
:—'''Needlenose''' and '''Spinister'''
 
 
"We are '''Primus'''. We are '''Prima'''. We are '''Prime Nova'''. We are '''Sentinel Prime'''. We are '''Optimus Prime'''. '''''WE ARE THUNDERWING!'''''"
:—The '''Creation Matrix''' again. Toldja it was ominous!
 
==Notes==
===Artwork and technical errors===
*Page 14: Thunderwing's thighs are colored as if they were part of Jazz's torso.
 
===Continuity notes===
*This is the first fictional mention of [[Prima]], [[Prime Nova]], and [[Sentinel Prime (G1)|Sentinel Prime]], although Prima and Sentinel Prime were previously depicted in "[[The Primal Scream|Primal Scream]]" and "[[The Legacy of Unicron!]]", respectively, as unnamed characters.
*Ruckus got knocked into the Mind Leech by Thunderwing just [[Deadly Obsession|last issue]].
*Bumblebee, Jazz, and Grimlock's Pretender Shells make their last appearance in the comics. Bumblebee's shell gets a hole blasted through it by Thunderwing, but Jazz and Grimlock's just disappear forever without explanation after they exit them to fight.
*Bumblebee complains about being low on Energon, yet back when he was visiting Nebulos (as Goldbug), the Autobots were also low on fuel, and he was unaffected.
*The Deathbringer story the Matrix references occurred in "[[Deathbringer (issue)|Deathbringer]]", making it one of the biggest references to the UK comic ever made by the US comic.
*It would be irresponsible to speculate on the identity of the not-fully-seen purple robot rising out of the ocean and talking in a stereotypical science-y manner. Maybe someone really smart like Shockwave could figure out the mystery - but he's MIA, last seen plummeting towards Earth in "[[The Desert Island of Space!]]". We may never know........
 
===Real-life references===
*The assorted creatures in this story are obviously inspired in part by the critters from the {{w|Alien (franchise)|''Alien'' film series}}, particularly the "{{w|facehugger}}". Given that, the name of the moon, "VsQs," may be an homage to {{w|List of characters in the Alien series|PFC Vasquez}} from ''{{w|Aliens (film)|Aliens}}'' and the name of the planet it orbits, "Cameron", is certainly an homage to {{w|James Cameron}}, the director of that film.
*{{w|Blackpool}} is a [[United Kingdom|UK]] seaside resort famous for its tower (which resembles the [[Eiffel Tower]]) and pleasure beach.
 
===Bot Roster===
*Autobots: 27 active; 8 rogue Micromasters; 1 in storage, 31 offline, 25 presumed offline. (95 total)
*Decepticons: 23 active; 4 rogue Micromasters; 1 rogue Shockwave returns; 26 offline, 25 presumed offline. 3 offline/missing. (82 total)
 
===UK printing===
'''Issue #290:'''
*'''Reprint ''Transformers'' story:''' "[[The Legacy of Unicron!]]"
*'''Other strips:''' ''[[Action Force (comic)|G.I. Joe the Action Force]]'' - "Bailout" and ''[[Combat Colin]]''
*'''[[Transformers AtoZ|AtoZ]]:''' [[Wildrider (G1)|Wildrider]] and [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]]
*With this issue, Combat Colin reverted to color (for a few issues at least)
*The AtoZ reached the end of the list alphabetically. Future AtoZs would use characters who had been missed out.
'''Issue #291:'''
*'''Reprint ''Transformers'' story:''' "The Legacy of Unicron!"
*'''Other strips:''' ''G.I. Joe the Action Force'' - "Bailout" and ''Combat Colin''
'''Issue #292:'''
*'''Reprint ''Transformers'' story:''' "The Legacy of Unicron!"
*'''Other strips:''' ''G.I. Joe the Action Force'' - "Bailout" and ''Combat Colin''
'''Issue #293:'''
*'''Reprint ''Transformers'' story:''' "The Legacy of Unicron!"
*'''Other strips:''' ''G.I. Joe the Action Force'' - "Bailout" and ''Combat Colin''


==References==
===Other trivia===
* The Deathbringer story the Matrix references occurred in UK issues [[Deathbringer (issue)|#235–236]], making it one of the biggest references to the UK comic ever made by the US comic.
*''[[The Transformers Universe|Transformers Universe]]'' profiles for [[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] and [[Windsweeper]] are found after the main story.


===Covers===
===Foreign Localization===
*'''Swedish'''
:* ''Title (1990):'' "'''Skapad ur mörkret'''" ("Created from the Darkness")
:* ''Title (2019):'' "'''Mörk skapelse'''" ("Dark Creation")
 
===Covers (5)===
*'''US issue #65 cover:''' Grimlock attacked by the alien, by [[Bill Sienkiewicz]].
*'''UK issue #290 cover:''' Optimus Prime's corpse, by [[Staz|Stewart Johnson]].
*'''UK issue #291 cover:''' Bumblebee about to be attacked by the alien, by Stewart Johnson.
*'''UK issue #292 cover:''' Windsweeper attacked by the alien, by Stewart Johnson.
*'''UK issue #293 cover:''' Thunderwing with the Matrix, by Stewart Johnson.
<gallery>
<gallery>
Image:MarvelUS-65.jpg|'''US issue #65''' - Zoinks!
File:MarvelUS-65.jpg|'''US issue #65''' - Zoinks!
Image:MarvelUK-290.jpg|'''UK issue #290''' - Brings a new meaning to 'heartburn'
File:MarvelUK-290.jpg|'''UK issue #290''' - Brings a new meaning to 'heartburn'
Image:MarvelUK-291.jpg|'''UK issue #291''' - Feed me Seymour!
File:MarvelUK-291.jpg|'''UK issue #291''' - Feed me Seymour!
Image:MarvelUK-292.jpg|'''UK issue #292''' - Windsweeper gets swept off his feet.
File:MarvelUK-292.jpg|'''UK issue #292''' - Windsweeper gets swept off his feet.
Image:MarvelUK-293.jpg|'''UK issue #293''' - Hmm, a floaty green thing. Can't be harmful!
File:MarvelUK-293.jpg|'''UK issue #293''' - Hmm, a floaty green thing. Can't be harmful!
</gallery>
</gallery>
* '''US issue #65 cover:''' Grimlock attacked by the alien by [[Bill Sienkiewicz]].
* '''UK issue #290 cover:''' Optimus Prime's corpse by [[Staz|Stewart Johnson]].
* '''UK issue #291 cover:''' Bumblebee about to be attacked by the alien by Stewart Johnson.
* '''UK issue #292 cover:''' Windsweeper attacked by the alien by Stewart Johnson.
* '''UK issue #293 cover:''' Thunderwing with the Matrix by Stewart Johnson.


===Advertisements===
===Advertisements===
* None yet identified.
====US====
*Trix cereal - inside front cover
*Instant Quaker Oatmeal presents ''Popeye'' - between pages 4 & 5 and between pages 5 & 6
*Acclaim Douple Player wireless head-to-head system - between pages 7 & 8
*Capcom ''Bionic Commando'' - between pages 8 & 9
*''Airwolf'' engine powered model helicopter - between pages 16 & 17
*''Wheels and Wings'' cards - between pages 17 & 18
*Star Signals and Checklist - between pages 19 & 20
*''WCW'' video game for Nintendo - between story and Spinister profile
*[[Letters page|Transmissions]]
*Marvel subscription service
*Chips Ahoy! cookies - inside back cover
*Lucky Charms cereal (back cover)
 
====UK====
????
 
===Reprints===
*'''''[[Transformers: Matrix Quest]]'' TPB:''' Thunderwing, [[Hot Rod (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Rodimus Prime]], [[Shockwave (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Shockwave]] and half of [[Primus]], by [[Andrew Wildman]].
*'''''Transformers: Matrix Quest'' HC:''' Thunderwing with the [[Matrix of Leadership|Creation Matrix]], by [[Pat Lee]].
*'''''[[Best of Transformers: Eye of the Storm]]'':''' Optimus Prime, [[Ravage (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Ravage]] and [[Skywarp (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Skywarp]], by Andrew Wildman.
*'''[[Classic Transformers Volume 5|''Classic Transformers'' Volume 5]]:''' panels from this issue, "[[Eye of the Storm]]", "[[Deadly Obsession]]" and "[[...All This and Civil War 2]]".
*'''[[The Transformers Classics, Vol. 6|''The Transformers Classics,'' Vol. 6]] cover:''' [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]], by [[Guido Guidi]].
*'''''[[Transformers: The Definitive G1 Collection]], Volume 17: Matrix Quest:''''' Nightbeat and Prime's corpse by [[Makoto Ono]] and [[Geoff Senior]].
<gallery>
File:Titan-MatrixQuestSC.jpg|'''''Matrix Quest'' TPB''' (Titan Books, 2002)
File:Titan-MatrixQuestHC.jpg|'''''Matrix Quest'' hardback''' (Titan Books, 2002)
File:Best of Transformers.jpg|'''''Best of Transformers: Eye of the Storm''''' (Titan Books, 2008)
File:Classic Transformers Vol5.jpg|'''''Classic Transformers'' Volume 5''' (IDW Publishing, 2009)
File:TFClassicsVol6.jpg|'''''The Transformers Classics,'' Vol. 6''' (IDW Publishing, 2013)
File:DefinitiveG1Collection v17.jpg|'''''Definitive G1 Collection vol. 17: Matrix Quest''''' (Hachette Partworks, Ltd., 2018)
</gallery>




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

Latest revision as of 13:11, 6 October 2025

« The Transformers (US) #65 »
« The Transformers (UK) #290–293 »

Get away from me, you GLITCH!
"Dark Creation"
Publisher Marvel Comics
Shipping date February 27, 1990
On-sale date March 20, 1990
Cover date April 1990
Writer Simon Furman
Artist Geoff Senior
Colorist Nel Yomtov
Letterer Jim Massara
Editor Don Daley
Continuity Marvel Comics continuity

In space, no one can hear you transform.

Synopsis

[edit]

And so, the true history of the Matrix after it left Earth in Optimus Prime's body unfolds. Crash landing on the barren moon VsQs, the Matrix lies inactive until a droid crashes nearby as well, on the edge of death. Revitalized, the mechanoid who once brought death only to the terminally ill becomes willing and able to take all life in its path. The Matrix maintains a psychic link with the Deathbringer after it departs, and experiences new sensations through the being, such as pain, terror, and evil. It becomes... curious.

Next, a small predatory creature crawls into Prime's dead chest and is exposed to the Matrix's power. Recognizing the creature as a predator that kills victims which are neither food nor enemy, the Matrix becomes fascinated by the nature of evil. To experiment with more sensations, it recreates the creature into a larger and more deadly form, something that curious scientists from Cameron Space Control learn to their eternal lament.

Cut to the present. The Classic Pretenders are exploring what remains of the VsQs exploration habitat. As Bumblebee uncovers the survey logs, which end abruptly after the first encounter with Optimus Prime's funeral barge and the Matrixspawn, Grimlock returns from exploring the ruins. He's found the research team... what's left of them. While the Autobots are pondering their options, Thunderwing suddenly crashes through the window, demanding they hand over the Matrix to him.

Back at Thunderwing's ship, Ruckus is monologuing to himself about how unfair it is that he's stuck on guard duty. He contends (to himself, still) that being backhanded across the room by Thunderwing should've been punishment enough. Little does he realize that his impact shook loose a circuit, sending an electrical surge through the Mind Leech technology holding the Headmaster prisoners in stasis.

"What about our lives, you son of a glitch?"
"I repeat: All other priorities are rescinded."

In the research station, Jazz makes a vain attempt to reason with Thunderwing before he crushes Bumblebee's neck, but Grimlock just hauls off and slugs him. As Thunderwing's Decepticon warriors join the fight, Windsweeper sees how outnumbered the Autobots are and decides to just hang back in the shadows and let the other Decepticons do the work. This strategy works pretty well until the Matrixspawn grabs him from behind with its tail and begins pulling him up to the rafters.

Meanwhile, off the coast of England, a shadowy figure dressed all in purple, and with only one eye, emerges from the waters. Their monologuing is witnesssed by a solitary human, who they decree must be silenced. But WHO could it be...?

On VsQs, the Decepticons notice Windsweeper is missing, and spot the creature about ready to devour him. Needlenose draws a bead on the Matrixspawn to kill it and save his comrade, but Thunderwing shoves him out of the way when he recognizes the Matrix energy dripping from the creature. Afraid of being separated from its vessel, the Matrix bids it to retreat. Thunderwing takes off in hot pursuit, leaving some very chagrined Decepticon troopers wondering just how far gone their leader is.

As the Pretenders regroup, they realize the moon's heavy gravity is beginning to have an effect on them; it seems they had been burning extra energon over the last few hours to compensate, which only means that now they're low on fuel reserves. Chasing after the creature as best they can, the Autobots are caught between Thunderwing and the Matrixspawn as they battle for the right to possess the Matrix. Bumblebee, all-but dry of energy, reaches slowly towards the Matrix as their enemies fight to the death and...

At the Ark, the Classic Pretenders' shuttle is coming in for a smooth landing, and Optimus Prime eagerly goes to meet the conquering heroes and reclaim their prize. The laugh's on him though, as Thunderwing steps forth from the shuttle wielding the power of the Matrix as his own.

[edit]

(Numbers indicate order of appearance.)

Autobots Decepticons Humans Others

Quotes

[edit]

"We are Primus. We are Prima. We are Prime Nova. We are Sentinel Prime. We are Optimus Prime. We are Creation Matrix! We know pleasure, purity--goodness. But we would know... more."

—The Creation Matrix monologues, ominously


"Pah! Fed up with weaklings crying about Unicron! Give me back my Dinobots and we kick butt!"
"Of course! It's so obvious! Why didn't any of us see this before? Except -- without the Matrix, how do you expect to revive the Dinobots? Sheesh!"

—Grimlock and Jazz


"Don't talk -- HIT!'"

—Grimlock explains his nuanced approach to dealing with Thunderwing


"Interesting. I almost felt that."

—A full-force punch from Grimlock fails to impress Thunderwing


"AAAAH! It's got me! It's got me! ...Ah ha. Well... the floor's got me, actually."

—Jazz takes a tumble through a decaying deck


"You reckon we should go after Thunderwing, help out?"
"Nah, it's his fight -- he's made that plenty clear to us already! Anyway, he doesn't care about what happens to us -- why should we worry about him? If Thunderwing beats the creature, the Autobots -- that's fine by me. If he dies -- I'll send flowers!"

—Needlenose and Spinister


"We are Primus. We are Prima. We are Prime Nova. We are Sentinel Prime. We are Optimus Prime. WE ARE THUNDERWING!"

—The Creation Matrix again. Toldja it was ominous!

Notes

[edit]

Artwork and technical errors

[edit]
  • Page 14: Thunderwing's thighs are colored as if they were part of Jazz's torso.

Continuity notes

[edit]
  • This is the first fictional mention of Prima, Prime Nova, and Sentinel Prime, although Prima and Sentinel Prime were previously depicted in "Primal Scream" and "The Legacy of Unicron!", respectively, as unnamed characters.
  • Ruckus got knocked into the Mind Leech by Thunderwing just last issue.
  • Bumblebee, Jazz, and Grimlock's Pretender Shells make their last appearance in the comics. Bumblebee's shell gets a hole blasted through it by Thunderwing, but Jazz and Grimlock's just disappear forever without explanation after they exit them to fight.
  • Bumblebee complains about being low on Energon, yet back when he was visiting Nebulos (as Goldbug), the Autobots were also low on fuel, and he was unaffected.
  • The Deathbringer story the Matrix references occurred in "Deathbringer", making it one of the biggest references to the UK comic ever made by the US comic.
  • It would be irresponsible to speculate on the identity of the not-fully-seen purple robot rising out of the ocean and talking in a stereotypical science-y manner. Maybe someone really smart like Shockwave could figure out the mystery - but he's MIA, last seen plummeting towards Earth in "The Desert Island of Space!". We may never know........

Real-life references

[edit]
  • The assorted creatures in this story are obviously inspired in part by the critters from the Alien film series, particularly the "facehugger". Given that, the name of the moon, "VsQs," may be an homage to PFC Vasquez from Aliens and the name of the planet it orbits, "Cameron", is certainly an homage to James Cameron, the director of that film.
  • Blackpool is a UK seaside resort famous for its tower (which resembles the Eiffel Tower) and pleasure beach.

Bot Roster

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  • Autobots: 27 active; 8 rogue Micromasters; 1 in storage, 31 offline, 25 presumed offline. (95 total)
  • Decepticons: 23 active; 4 rogue Micromasters; 1 rogue Shockwave returns; 26 offline, 25 presumed offline. 3 offline/missing. (82 total)

UK printing

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Issue #290:

Issue #291:

  • Reprint Transformers story: "The Legacy of Unicron!"
  • Other strips: G.I. Joe the Action Force - "Bailout" and Combat Colin

Issue #292:

  • Reprint Transformers story: "The Legacy of Unicron!"
  • Other strips: G.I. Joe the Action Force - "Bailout" and Combat Colin

Issue #293:

  • Reprint Transformers story: "The Legacy of Unicron!"
  • Other strips: G.I. Joe the Action Force - "Bailout" and Combat Colin

Other trivia

[edit]

Foreign Localization

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  • Swedish
  • Title (1990): "Skapad ur mörkret" ("Created from the Darkness")
  • Title (2019): "Mörk skapelse" ("Dark Creation")

Covers (5)

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  • US issue #65 cover: Grimlock attacked by the alien, by Bill Sienkiewicz.
  • UK issue #290 cover: Optimus Prime's corpse, by Stewart Johnson.
  • UK issue #291 cover: Bumblebee about to be attacked by the alien, by Stewart Johnson.
  • UK issue #292 cover: Windsweeper attacked by the alien, by Stewart Johnson.
  • UK issue #293 cover: Thunderwing with the Matrix, by Stewart Johnson.
  • US issue #65 - Zoinks!
    US issue #65 - Zoinks!
  • UK issue #290 - Brings a new meaning to 'heartburn'
    UK issue #290 - Brings a new meaning to 'heartburn'
  • UK issue #291 - Feed me Seymour!
    UK issue #291 - Feed me Seymour!
  • UK issue #292 - Windsweeper gets swept off his feet.
    UK issue #292 - Windsweeper gets swept off his feet.
  • UK issue #293 - Hmm, a floaty green thing. Can't be harmful!
    UK issue #293 - Hmm, a floaty green thing. Can't be harmful!

Advertisements

[edit]

US

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  • Trix cereal - inside front cover
  • Instant Quaker Oatmeal presents Popeye - between pages 4 & 5 and between pages 5 & 6
  • Acclaim Douple Player wireless head-to-head system - between pages 7 & 8
  • Capcom Bionic Commando - between pages 8 & 9
  • Airwolf engine powered model helicopter - between pages 16 & 17
  • Wheels and Wings cards - between pages 17 & 18
  • Star Signals and Checklist - between pages 19 & 20
  • WCW video game for Nintendo - between story and Spinister profile
  • Transmissions
  • Marvel subscription service
  • Chips Ahoy! cookies - inside back cover
  • Lucky Charms cereal (back cover)

UK

[edit]

????

Reprints

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  • Matrix Quest TPB (Titan Books, 2002)
    Matrix Quest TPB (Titan Books, 2002)
  • Matrix Quest hardback (Titan Books, 2002)
    Matrix Quest hardback (Titan Books, 2002)
  • Best of Transformers: Eye of the Storm (Titan Books, 2008)
    Best of Transformers: Eye of the Storm (Titan Books, 2008)
  • Classic Transformers Volume 5 (IDW Publishing, 2009)
    Classic Transformers Volume 5 (IDW Publishing, 2009)
  • The Transformers Classics, Vol. 6 (IDW Publishing, 2013)
    The Transformers Classics, Vol. 6 (IDW Publishing, 2013)
  • Definitive G1 Collection vol. 17: Matrix Quest (Hachette Partworks, Ltd., 2018)
    Definitive G1 Collection vol. 17: Matrix Quest (Hachette Partworks, Ltd., 2018)
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