Protoform: Difference between revisions
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[[Image:Protoforms2.jpg|right|300px|thumb|TeH Nekkid AiRrazzer!1! L@@K]] | [[Image:Protoforms2.jpg|right|300px|thumb|TeH Nekkid AiRrazzer!1! L@@K]] | ||
Protoforms are transported or stored in [[Stasis lock|stasis lock]], in which state they look like smooth, robotic humanoids (right). When not in stasis lock, protoforms are a roiling mass of liquid metal around their internal frame. | '''Protoforms''' consist of an unspecified, free-flowing, metallic matter layered over basic robotic systems. In many continuities, a protoform is the first stage in a [[Transformer]]'s [[Life cycle|life cycle]]. These protoforms only await a life-giving [[Spark|spark]] and the alt-form information necessary to transform them into fully functional, living Transformer beings. Often, protoform modes are used to transport Transformers on intergalactic journeys. | ||
Protoforms are transported or stored in [[Stasis lock|stasis lock]], in which state they look like smooth, robotic humanoids (right). When not in stasis lock, protoforms are a roiling mass of liquid metal around their internal frame.<ref>Protoform states seen in "[[The Spark|The Spark]]".</ref> | |||
:''Japanese name:'' '''Prototype''' (''Beast Wars''), '''Cyberdrone''' (''Car Robots'') | :''Japanese name:'' '''Prototype''' (''Beast Wars''), '''Cyberdrone''' (''Car Robots'') | ||
==Fiction== | ==Fiction== | ||
===''Beast Wars''=== | {{cleanup|March 2009|Needs storylinks for all the stuff mentioned here)) | ||
===Generation 1=== | |||
====''Beast Wars''==== | |||
Protoforms are often contained within [[Stasis pod|stasis pods]] and dropped into unexplored worlds. The ''[[Axalon (BW)|Axalon]]'' carried many such stasis pods for exploration reasons. When a protoform lands, it scans for compatible life-forms. When a suitable lifeform is found, the protoform is reformatted by hitherto unknown means. | Protoforms are often contained within [[Stasis pod|stasis pods]] and dropped into unexplored worlds. The ''[[Axalon (BW)|Axalon]]'' carried many such stasis pods for exploration reasons. When a protoform lands, it scans for compatible life-forms. When a suitable lifeform is found, the protoform is reformatted by hitherto unknown means. | ||
===''Beast Wars II''=== | ====''Beast Wars II''==== | ||
[[Image:Protoforms1.jpg|left|180px|thumb|Pretty spry for globs of pudding]] | [[Image:Protoforms1.jpg|left|180px|thumb|Pretty spry for globs of pudding]] | ||
[[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]] protoforms were shown moving about the Predacon warship using their own power, though they were not shown to speak or have any kind of personality. After the Predacons had gathered enough information about the machines of [[Gaea|Gaea]]'s past, they then fed the information into the protoforms via energy waves. The protoforms were then altered into the [[Autoroller|Autorollers]]. | [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]] protoforms were shown moving about the Predacon warship using their own power, though they were not shown to speak or have any kind of personality. After the Predacons had gathered enough information about the machines of [[Gaea|Gaea]]'s past, they then fed the information into the protoforms via energy waves. The protoforms were then altered into the [[Autoroller|Autorollers]]. | ||
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The atmosphere of the Planet Gaea could have caused the protoforms to rust. | The atmosphere of the Planet Gaea could have caused the protoforms to rust. | ||
{{Note|Given that the Autorollers were apparently extant veterans, this would be a case similar to that of [[Airazor (BW)|Airazor]] and [[Tigatron|Tigatron]] in "[[Dawn of Future's Past|Dawn of Future's Past]]", in which an already living Cybertronian had been downloaded into a new protoform body.}} | |||
{{-}} | {{-}} | ||
====Dreamwave comics continuity==== | |||
===Dreamwave comics continuity=== | Protoforms are the first step in most (if not all) Transformer life. Convicted criminals are sometimes reduced to Protoform state, such as the [[Combaticon|Combaticons]]. {{Storylink|Revelation (comic issue)}} | ||
Protoforms are the first step in most (if not all) Transformer life. Convicted criminals are sometimes reduced to Protoform state, such as the [[Combaticon|Combaticons]]. | |||
===''Robots in Disguise''=== | ===''Robots in Disguise''=== | ||
| Line 34: | Line 35: | ||
A downside to the protoform process is that it leaves the Autobots vulnerable to tampering. [[Megatron (RID)|Megatron]] was able to use his [[Spark|Spark]]'s energy to turn Autobot protoforms into [[Decepticon|malevolent entities]]. {{storylink|The Decepticons|The Decepticons}} | A downside to the protoform process is that it leaves the Autobots vulnerable to tampering. [[Megatron (RID)|Megatron]] was able to use his [[Spark|Spark]]'s energy to turn Autobot protoforms into [[Decepticon|malevolent entities]]. {{storylink|The Decepticons|The Decepticons}} | ||
===Unicron Trilogy=== | |||
===''Cybertron''=== | ====''Cybertron''==== | ||
Protoforms are established as the first stage of Transformer life, which is usually followed by [[Primary programming|Primary programming]]. | Protoforms are established as the first stage of Transformer life, which is usually followed by [[Primary programming|Primary programming]]. | ||
===Live-action movie franchise=== | |||
===''Transformers'' (2007)=== | ====''Transformers'' (2007)==== | ||
[[Image:Movie OptimusPrime protoform.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Optimus Prime's protoform]] | [[Image:Movie OptimusPrime protoform.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Optimus Prime's protoform]] | ||
Protoforms in this continuity are more than just the first stage of a Transformer's life, they are the "base" form that exists down inside each robot. Protoforms are made of an ultra-dense, liquid metal material and are extremely hard to damage. | Protoforms in this continuity are more than just the first stage of a Transformer's life, they are the "base" form that exists down inside each robot. Protoforms are made of an ultra-dense, liquid metal material and are extremely hard to damage. | ||
In the rare case they are not actively practicing their natural proclivity for chameleon-like disguise (usually only when engaged in interstellar travel), Transformers shed their exo-structure and return to their protoform state. This protoform is capable of transforming into its [[Transition form|transition form]]: an armored, cometary shape capable of interstellar travel. Upon landing on a new world and transforming back into a protoform, the Transformer immediately begins [[Trans-scan|trans-scanning]] for new alternate forms to adopt. When one is chosen, the protoform draws on its own ultra-dense substance and any extraneous matter nearby to generate a new exostructure disguise. | In the rare case they are not actively practicing their natural proclivity for chameleon-like disguise (usually only when engaged in interstellar travel), Transformers shed their exo-structure and return to their protoform state. This protoform is capable of transforming into its [[Transition form|transition form]]: an armored, cometary shape capable of interstellar travel. Upon landing on a new world and transforming back into a protoform, the Transformer immediately begins [[Trans-scan|trans-scanning]] for new alternate forms to adopt. When one is chosen, the protoform draws on its own ultra-dense substance and any extraneous matter nearby to generate a new exostructure disguise. {{Storylink|Transformers: The Movie Guide}} | ||
{{Note:|"Protoform" is used as a term for the movieverse Transformers' Cybertronian forms, although this is also a chosen appearance for the [[Self-regenerating molecular armor|self-regenerating molecular armor]] formed by the protoform.}} | |||
{{-}} | {{-}} | ||
===''Transformers Animated''=== | |||
===''Animated''=== | |||
[[Image:TransWarpedProtoform.jpg|thumb|right|My Meebas live inside this tube, we grow and change with help from you!]] | [[Image:TransWarpedProtoform.jpg|thumb|right|My Meebas live inside this tube, we grow and change with help from you!]] | ||
According to [[Bumblebee (Animated)|Bumblebee]], [[Megatron (Animated)|Megatron]] eats them for breakfast. {{storylink|Transform and Roll Out!|Transform and Roll Out!}} Also, [[Ratchet (Animated)|Ratchet]] refers to [[Sari|Sari]] as a protoform, suggesting that protoforms are an early stage in a Cybertronian's life cycle that is similar to childhood. {{storylink|Lost and Found (episode)|Lost and Found}} Ironically, this would later turn out to be true, indicating that Transformers can become technorganic in ''Animated'' merely by transcanning an organic form. Apparently, different Transformers could also be created by the same protoform templates, a fact that could explain similarities in body form and transformation schemes (or, in real life terms, retools and redecos.) {{storylink|Autoboot Camp|Autoboot Camp}} | According to [[Bumblebee (Animated)|Bumblebee]], [[Megatron (Animated)|Megatron]] eats them for breakfast. {{storylink|Transform and Roll Out!|Transform and Roll Out!}} Also, [[Ratchet (Animated)|Ratchet]] refers to [[Sari|Sari]] as a protoform, suggesting that protoforms are an early stage in a Cybertronian's life cycle that is similar to childhood. {{storylink|Lost and Found (episode)|Lost and Found}} Ironically, this would later turn out to be true, indicating that Transformers can become technorganic in ''Animated'' merely by transcanning an organic form. Apparently, different Transformers could also be created by the same protoform templates, a fact that could explain similarities in body form and transformation schemes (or, in real life terms, retools and redecos.) {{storylink|Autoboot Camp|Autoboot Camp}} | ||
"Protoform" seems to be a derogatory nickname amongst Cybertronians, translating roughly to "baby" or "kid". The word "protoform''ed''" has been used, presumably in reference to a protoform's coming into existence. | "Protoform" seems to be a derogatory nickname amongst Cybertronians, translating roughly to "baby" or "kid". The word "protoform''ed''" has been used, presumably in reference to a protoform's coming into existence. | ||
{{-}} | |||
==Toys== | ==Toys== | ||
Toys representing transitional protoform modes have been made for several characters from the [[Movie (franchise)|live-action Movie]] universe: | Toys representing transitional protoform modes have been made for several characters from the [[Movie (franchise)|live-action Movie]] universe: | ||
===Transformers (2007)=== | |||
[[Image:Movie ProtoformOptimusPrime toy.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Munkytruck feet!]] | |||
*'''Protoform [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]]''' (Deluxe Class, 2007), later [[Redeco|redecorated]] as Protoform Optimus Prime Fusion Cluster Edition. This form is usually Optimus Prime's pre-Earth body in [[IDW Publishing]]'s ''Transformers'' movie prequel comics. | |||
*'''Protoform [[Starscream (Movie)|Starscream]]''' (Deluxe, 2007), later redecorated as Protoform Starscream Fusion Cluster Edition. This form is usually Starscream's pre-Earth body in IDW's ''Transformers'' movie prequel comics. | |||
* '''Trans Scanning [[Bumblebee (Movie)|Bumblebee]]''' (2008) | |||
*''' | * '''Trans Scanning Optimus Prime''' (2008) | ||
:Both Trans-Scanning Bumblebee and Optimus Prime feature a highly articulated protoform robot mode that can transform into its comet-like transition mode. Snap-on armour based on their Earth robot and vehicle modes represent the character after they have trans-scanned a vehicle. | |||
===Robot Heroes=== | |||
*[[Robot Heroes|Robot Heroes]] [[Jazz (Movie)| Protoform Autobot Jazz]] vs. [[Brawl (Movie)|Decepticon Brawl]] | *[[Robot Heroes|Robot Heroes]] [[Jazz (Movie)| Protoform Autobot Jazz]] vs. [[Brawl (Movie)|Decepticon Brawl]] | ||
: | |||
==Trivia== | ==Trivia== | ||
* A traditional Cybertronian song features the lines "Protoform/ Protoform/ What will you be?" | * A traditional Cybertronian song features the lines "Protoform/ Protoform/ What will you be?" <ref>"[[Black Horizon, Part 1|Black Horizon, Part 1]]", ''G.I. Joe vs. Transformers'' Volume 4</ref> | ||
* [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]]'s Cybertronian form depicted in ''Transformers'' comics and toys greatly resembles a protoform, presumably because it was Hasbro's only reference for an alien Autobot appearance. | * [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]]'s Cybertronian form depicted in ''Transformers'' comics and toys greatly resembles a protoform, presumably because it was Hasbro's only reference for an alien Autobot appearance. | ||
==Footnotes== | ==Footnotes== | ||
<references/> | |||
{{Stub}} | |||
[[Category:Animated]] | [[Category:Animated]] | ||
[[Category:Beast Wars]] | [[Category:Beast Wars]] | ||
Revision as of 03:27, 22 March 2009
- Protoforms are part of a Transformer's life cycle in many Transformers continuities.
Protoforms consist of an unspecified, free-flowing, metallic matter layered over basic robotic systems. In many continuities, a protoform is the first stage in a Transformer's life cycle. These protoforms only await a life-giving spark and the alt-form information necessary to transform them into fully functional, living Transformer beings. Often, protoform modes are used to transport Transformers on intergalactic journeys.
Protoforms are transported or stored in stasis lock, in which state they look like smooth, robotic humanoids (right). When not in stasis lock, protoforms are a roiling mass of liquid metal around their internal frame.[1]
- Japanese name: Prototype (Beast Wars), Cyberdrone (Car Robots)
Fiction
{{cleanup|March 2009|Needs storylinks for all the stuff mentioned here))
Generation 1
Beast Wars
Protoforms are often contained within stasis pods and dropped into unexplored worlds. The Axalon carried many such stasis pods for exploration reasons. When a protoform lands, it scans for compatible life-forms. When a suitable lifeform is found, the protoform is reformatted by hitherto unknown means.
Beast Wars II
Predacon protoforms were shown moving about the Predacon warship using their own power, though they were not shown to speak or have any kind of personality. After the Predacons had gathered enough information about the machines of Gaea's past, they then fed the information into the protoforms via energy waves. The protoforms were then altered into the Autorollers.
The atmosphere of the Planet Gaea could have caused the protoforms to rust.
Given that the Autorollers were apparently extant veterans, this would be a case similar to that of Airazor and Tigatron in "Dawn of Future's Past", in which an already living Cybertronian had been downloaded into a new protoform body.
Dreamwave comics continuity
Protoforms are the first step in most (if not all) Transformer life. Convicted criminals are sometimes reduced to Protoform state, such as the Combaticons. Revelation (comic issue)
Robots in Disguise
Autobots (and possibly Predacons) can change into a protoform state during long journeys, presumably to conserve energy. Attributes of an Autobot's original form remain in whatever new form the being takes. For instance, Scourge retained the ability to detect O-Parts.
A downside to the protoform process is that it leaves the Autobots vulnerable to tampering. Megatron was able to use his Spark's energy to turn Autobot protoforms into malevolent entities. The Decepticons
Unicron Trilogy
Cybertron
Protoforms are established as the first stage of Transformer life, which is usually followed by Primary programming.
Live-action movie franchise
Transformers (2007)
Protoforms in this continuity are more than just the first stage of a Transformer's life, they are the "base" form that exists down inside each robot. Protoforms are made of an ultra-dense, liquid metal material and are extremely hard to damage.
In the rare case they are not actively practicing their natural proclivity for chameleon-like disguise (usually only when engaged in interstellar travel), Transformers shed their exo-structure and return to their protoform state. This protoform is capable of transforming into its transition form: an armored, cometary shape capable of interstellar travel. Upon landing on a new world and transforming back into a protoform, the Transformer immediately begins trans-scanning for new alternate forms to adopt. When one is chosen, the protoform draws on its own ultra-dense substance and any extraneous matter nearby to generate a new exostructure disguise. Transformers: The Movie Guide
Transformers Animated
According to Bumblebee, Megatron eats them for breakfast. Transform and Roll Out! Also, Ratchet refers to Sari as a protoform, suggesting that protoforms are an early stage in a Cybertronian's life cycle that is similar to childhood. Lost and Found Ironically, this would later turn out to be true, indicating that Transformers can become technorganic in Animated merely by transcanning an organic form. Apparently, different Transformers could also be created by the same protoform templates, a fact that could explain similarities in body form and transformation schemes (or, in real life terms, retools and redecos.) Autoboot Camp
"Protoform" seems to be a derogatory nickname amongst Cybertronians, translating roughly to "baby" or "kid". The word "protoformed" has been used, presumably in reference to a protoform's coming into existence.
Toys
Toys representing transitional protoform modes have been made for several characters from the live-action Movie universe:
Transformers (2007)
- Protoform Optimus Prime (Deluxe Class, 2007), later redecorated as Protoform Optimus Prime Fusion Cluster Edition. This form is usually Optimus Prime's pre-Earth body in IDW Publishing's Transformers movie prequel comics.
- Protoform Starscream (Deluxe, 2007), later redecorated as Protoform Starscream Fusion Cluster Edition. This form is usually Starscream's pre-Earth body in IDW's Transformers movie prequel comics.
- Trans Scanning Bumblebee (2008)
- Trans Scanning Optimus Prime (2008)
- Both Trans-Scanning Bumblebee and Optimus Prime feature a highly articulated protoform robot mode that can transform into its comet-like transition mode. Snap-on armour based on their Earth robot and vehicle modes represent the character after they have trans-scanned a vehicle.
Robot Heroes
Trivia
- A traditional Cybertronian song features the lines "Protoform/ Protoform/ What will you be?" [2]
- Optimus Prime's Cybertronian form depicted in Transformers comics and toys greatly resembles a protoform, presumably because it was Hasbro's only reference for an alien Autobot appearance.
Footnotes
- ↑ Protoform states seen in "The Spark".
- ↑ "Black Horizon, Part 1", G.I. Joe vs. Transformers Volume 4
