Animation error
Animation errors are a phenomenon in cartoons, which means some scenes are weird, inconsistent, or even illogical. Sometimes these represented multiples of otherwise unique characters, characters appearing in inappropriate scenes (even after their original deaths in some cases), inexplicable deviations from character models, and odd size variations. They were most rampant in the original Generation 1 cartoon, due to the low animation budget. However, the cartoon was not alone in this respect considering the production values of most other cartoons in the 1980s. They should not be confused with palette swaps, which are for the most part intentional.
Types of animation errors
Animation errors are often separated into two types:
Animation and technical glitches
Discoloring
Perhaps the most common error is when a character is colored incorrectly. Sometimes they are colored like other characters mistakenly; other times the coloring is totally off, like Optimus Prime painted white (and not as Ultra Magnus).
Sizing errors
Layer issues
Continuity error
Dead men standing
There have been several examples of characters appearing after they have supposedly died, most notably in The Transformers: The Movie. Brawn and Huffer made appearances in the third season of the cartoon, while Prowl showed up on the Japanese Headmasters series.
Wrong place at the wrong time
Sometimes, characters who have been captured or gone missing will suddenly show up in their base or team with no explanation.
Notable examples
Generation One
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"Autobot, Transform and ro..... wait, who are you?"
MTMtE, pt2 -
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"We will take revenge next time we form Devastator."
Carnage in C-Minor -
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Beast Wars
