User:Tigerpaw28/Sandbox:Commercials

This article is about TV advertisements. For the bits between the show and the ads, see Commercial bumper.

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And watch the cartoon, too! It's not nearly this pretty, but it gives you time to blink.

Despite the existence of comics, cartoons, and other media intended to advertise Transformers toys, Hasbro has routinely commissioned standard television commercials to promote their current toy lines. These commercials typically use a combination of animation and live-action film featuring the characters/toys in question.

During the Generation 1 days, animation used in the commercials consisted largely of newly commissioned pieces that told a story. Since then, nearly all animation featured in Transformers commercials can be classified as either re-used excerpts from the current cartoon or short animations used to merely introduce the ad. Live-action toy segments have stayed mostly the same, with most US and international ads showing kids (or a pair of hands) transforming the toys. Japanese ads, by contrast, have shown a much larger preference for stop-motion toy segments.

As the goal of any advertising is to influence the viewer into buying the advertised product,Transformers commercials have naturally played a large part in the perception of the Transformers brand. The narration of Victor Caroli, along with the animation, enabled Generation 1 commercials to create the idea of a Transformers world with many stories to be told. The Beast Wars ad campaign created a similar feel of a whole world waiting to be explored but this time with organic beasts. This recurring theme of a huge world of stories has captivated many a Transformers fan and is largely responsible for the brand's rabid fandom. More recently, the massive ad campaigns for the live-action film series and associated merchandise has kept the Transformers brand in the eye of the public, and made the films feel like the blockbuster events they were intended to be.

Generation 1

Generation 1's marketing is a master class in how to sell toys, with many of its ideas still being used in Transformers ads today.

Generation 2

Generation 2's marketing, much like the toyline itself, started as a redesign of it's predecessor. Also like the toy line, it became more quintessentially 90's as it progressed.

Beast Wars

The Beast Wars toyline represented a significant change in the direction of the brand, with changes in detailing, articulation and concept. The commercials had their own changes, with a new narrator, a different approach to showing off the toys and less animation.

Animorphs

Animorphs represented a brief throw back to the narration approach of the later Generation 1 ads by having the characters of Jake and Tobias provide narration. Unlike the earlier ads, which had Optimus Prime, Megatron or Galvatron sharing time with Victor Caroli and The Other Guy, Jake and Tobias are the sole narrators.

"ИƎI⅃A?"

1999

Toys

• Animorphs - 30 sec, 15 sec

Narration: Two unknown kids, one portaying Tobias and one portraying Jake (possibly Shawn Ashmore as Jake).

Toy segment: Visser Three emerges from a large cardboard tube, transforms , flexes his spring loaded claw and then fires a missile from his other hand. His 'real' (a costume glove) hand is then shown before revealing his shadow on the side of a large holding tank. This is followed by Jake flipping his head to his halfway mode and Jake flipping up his hawk mode head in order to show that "they can change too". Ax walks up to Visser Three, transforms and then fires his tail stinger missile to knockdown Visser Three. Marco, Jake, and Tobias watch Rachel launch Visser Three by pouncing onto a makeshift seesaw.

Notes: A brief explanation of the Animorphs story, with one of the characters saying "Animorphs, Transformers!" Features Jake, Deluxe class Tobias, Mega class Ax, Mega class Visser Three, gorilla Marco and Rachel. Some footage from the Animorphs TV series is seen, and an instrumental version of the series' theme plays underneath. The synthesized "Transformers!" digital voice (as with the concurrent Beast Wars ads, apparently taken from older Generation 1 ads) plays at the end. The toy segment is filmed in what bizarrely looks like a very fancy and poorly lit office with different organizers and other metal office supplies being used by the kids to create their imagined environment.

(Alternating, starting with Jake) "The alien invasion has begun, and it's up to the five of us to stop them. Animorphs Transformers! The evil Visser Three is the leader of the Yerks" "He can morph from evil Andalite." "To Inferno creature." "With grasping claws." "And firing jaws." "But we can change too, into any animal we touch. And when heroic Ax changes into a scorpion...Visser Three is gonna get stung." "To save the human race, we pounce like animals." "Make the change" Both: "Animorphs!"

• Animorphs 2 - 30 sec

Narration: Two unknown kids, one portaying Tobias and one portraying Jake (possibly Shawn Ashmore as Jake).

Toy segment: Jake is transformed from human to Tiger with the camera focusing in on his head as it switches between it's three states. A brief segment of Jake changing from the TV show is shown before cutting back to the toy's right claw gauntlet being put on and then the toy in tiger mode posed on a metal framework. Tobias gets the same style transformation shot, followed by a shot of the toys wings being expanded. This is followed by two sequences from the first commercial, the early part where Visser Three emerges, transforms and demos his features and the last part where Rachel pounces.

Notes: This ad is similar to the first ad, using most of the same Visser Three footage. It has a different, more energetic narration that actually discloses who the narrators are and gives Tobias a little bit larger role. There is a larger emphasis on Jake and Tobias and Ax is not featured at all.

(Alternating, starting with Jake) "The alien invasion has begun, and it's up to the five of us to stop them. Animorphs Transformers! We've been given an incredible power." "To morph, into any animal we touch!" "I'm more than just Jake now, I'm changing with the ferocious power of the tiger, my hands getting fierce claws!" "I'm Tobias, morphing from human to hawk, my wings FORMing for air attack!" "The evil aliens led by Visser Three are here and there's only one way to change his plans" "pounce like animals!" Both: "Animorphs!"

• Tri-Rex

Narration:

Toy segment:

Notes: The existence of this ad is known from old alt.toys.transformers news postings. No footage of this ad has resurfaced so far.

Beast Machines

For Beast Machines, Hasbro took a very minimalist approach to it's marketing by producing only three ads over it's two years of availability. This may have been impacted by also needing to spend on ads for Beast Wars and Animorphs in 1999. The toy ads marked a return to using children in the ads, as opposed to the "pair of hands" manipulating the toys from off-screen approach of Beast Wars and Animorphs. The children were featured in school settings, engaging in rivalries over whose toy was more "powerful". These debates also provided the narration for the ads, with traditional narration (if any) relegated to the static end frame. This began the current trend of having toy segments that do not make use of dioramas in some fashion. While Beast Machines was not the first line to have commercials featuring "Fast Motion" transformations, that honor going to the last year of Beast Wars ads, it was the first to go all in on them. The new tag line for the toy ads was "The challenge is in the change.".

The move from syndication to network television resulted in new forms of advertising for the cartoon. The Fox Kids network would run short 10 second ads during the credits of their various shows to promote shows coming up later that morning. Occasionally, they'd even run the 10 second ads during normal commercial breaks. The changeover also resulted in "Network" versions of commercials with station agnostic narration. The same ads could have station specific versions as well. The end of the ad would just show a graphic for the show and the time, leaving it to the station to add narration and graphics. However, the biggest effect from the move to Fox Kids was that the cartoons now got promoted before they even aired. Fox Kids kicked off the marketing campaign on August 11th 1999 by advertising a "first look" at the show to air on August 14th during Digimon. This "first look" turned out to be the Evolution Revolution music video. The music video was re-aired the following weekend, both in a shortened version that ran twice and a replay of the original two minute version. Between the spectacle of a music video and the drastic differences in the animation style and character design, the video was quite the revelation.

1999

Toys

That kid in the back? Way too excited.

• Deluxe Jetstorm and Optimus Primal - 30 sec, 15 sec

Animation: Cartoon excerpts showing Jetstorm firing at Optimus Primal and Optimus Primal jumping down from somewhere.

Narration: SUNDAY SUNDAY SUNDAY!!!

Toy segment: Two boys at school fight in the only honorable way — by badly transforming Optimus Primal and Jetstorm.

Older kid: "Three o'clock at the flag pole." Younger kid: "I'll BE there!" Older: "Beast Machines Jetstorm's gonna kick your can!" Younger: "Not if Optimus changes first. Optimus, ready for battle!" Older: "It's over monkey-boy!" Younger: "Your flight's been canceled! Who's next?" New Beast Machines Transformers, the challenge is in the change.

Cartoon

• First Look - 30 sec

Animation: Cheetor and Rattrap emerging from the light of the Oracle.

Narration: Jess Harnell

Notes: This ad began airing on August 11th, 1999 and continued to air through the following Saturday morning of August 14th, leading up to airing of the Evolution Revolution music video. The linked version of the ad is the one that aired on Saturday morning.

Coming this fall...to Fox Kids...Beast Machines. Don't miss an exclusive first look.

It's a conversion re-version.

• Evolution Revolution - Long, Short

Animation: Excerpts from The Reformatting and Master of the House.

Narration: Coming this fall to Fox Kids! at the very end by Jess Harnell

Notes: The full video debuted on August 14th, 1999 and was replayed the following Saturday, August 21st. The shorter version of the video aired during two different breaks earlier that same morning.

It's a transformation revelation! It's Beast Machines.

• Series premiere promo - 30 sec

Animation: Excerpts from The Reformatting and Master of the House.

Narration: Neil Ross

Notes: This ad first aired on August 28th, 1999. It would continue to be used after the premiere to advertise new episodes.

It's an all new show for a renegade group of Beast Machines. "You can teach an old ape new tricks." Who are now on Cybertron fighting unknown foes. "Welcome to Cybertropolis." With a whole new look... "Thought I had slick cat moves before? Check this out!" and a whole new attitude! "I am transformed!" Transform your Saturday morning when Beast Machines premieres September 18th at ten, only on Fox Kids.

Version	Length	Link
Premiering Sat. Sept. 18th 10:00am	0:30 NET	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qIkfT81hOA&t=10m35s
Premiering Sat. Sept. 18th 11:00am	0:30 NET	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qIkfT81hOA&t=11m09s
Station	0:30 STA	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qIkfT81hOA&t=11m41s
Premiering Sat. Sept. 18th 10:00am	0:20 NET	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qIkfT81hOA&t=12m11s
Premiering Sat. Sept. 18th 11:00am	0:20 NET	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qIkfT81hOA&t=12m36s
Station	0:20 STA	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qIkfT81hOA&t=12m55s
Premiering Sat. Sept. 18th 10:00am	0:10 NET	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qIkfT81hOA&t=13m18s
Premiering Sat. Sept. 18th 11:00am	0:10 NET	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qIkfT81hOA&t=13m30s
Station	0:10 STA	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qIkfT81hOA&t=13m42s

• Season One promo - 10 sec

Animation: Various cartoon excerpts.

Narration: Tom Kane

An ape, a cat, a spider, a rat and a bat. Go wild with Beast Machines. This Saturday morning at 11, only on Fox Kids.

Hey look, they put the Void in the poster!

• Master the Beast Sweepstakes - 30 sec

Animation: Excerpts of Blackarachnia transforming, Optimus Primal turning his head, Optimus Primal landing in beast mode, Megatron glaring, the Maximals together, Optimus Primal at the Oracle, Cheetor turning his head, Blackarachnia opening her eyes, Optimus Primal transforming, Rattrap in beast mode.

Narration: Unknown

Notes: This was an ad for the Master the Beast sweepstakes contest.

Does changing into Beast Machines sound cool to you? Then enter Fox Kids' "Master the Beast" sweepstakes. If you win, you're off to Vancouver, to check out the 3D animation, and get your face featured on a Beast Machines poster. Plus lots of Beast Machines and Beast Wars toys will be yours. One thousand others will win a Beast Machines action figure. To enter, watch Beast Machines on Fox Kids then write down your favorite character with your name and address and send it to Fox Kids Master the Beast PO Box 4040 Beverly Hills CA, 90213 by October 1st.

• End of the Line promo - 30 sec

Animation: Excerpts from End of the Line.

Narration: Jonathan David Cook

Notes:: This spot aired several times throughout the morning of End of the Line's initial airing.

"The time has come. The final battle is at hand." This morning, all sides have the key to... "Worldwide armageddon!" "Doomsday." But who will be the first to turn it? "We finish this now Megatron!" Is this truly the end of the line? "End game." Be there for this all new Beast Machines.

• YTV promo - 30 sec

Animation: Excerpts of the Optimal/Transmetal 2 and Beast Machines versions of Optimus Primal, Blackarachnia and Megatron from the respective series.

Narration: Edward Glen

Notes: Each characters' Beast Wars Season 3 form is followed by their Beast Machines form accompanied by the narrator describing the changes as though he's narrating a fashion show.

Makeover madness. Here's the old Optimus and here's the new Optimus for a new millenium! Fresh, fun and fabulous! "Of course!" Now Blackarachnia, shown here in Beasties, wanted a bold new look that screamed success. Isn't she stunning? She de-serves it! Everyone's favorite bad guy Megatron, always the egomaniac, went bigger and badder. Puh-lease! Everyone knows not to wear stainless steel after Labor Day! Beast Machines, tonight at seven-thirty. Keep it weeeeeeeeeeeird! On YTV.

2000

Toys

• Supreme Cheetor - 30 sec

Animation: Two excerpts featuring Cheetor transforming.

Narration: None, apart from "New Beast Machines Electronic Cheetor Supreme sold separately" by the Cheetor Kid.

Toy segment: Two kids face off in a gymnasium, surrounded by cheering friends. Megatron Kid makes threats to the other kid, who whips out Supreme Cheetor. Megatron Kid congratulates Cheetor Kid after losing their match.

Notes: The Cheetor toy is oddly referred to, not as a Supreme size Cheetor, but as Cheetor Supreme as though supreme is part of his name.

Older kid: "You up for a challenge?" Younger kid: "Let's do it!" Older: "Evil Megatron's gonna get—" Younger: "Stomped by Cheetor Supreme!" Crowd: "Whoa!" Younger: "He's huge as a cat, and ever bigger as a robot!" Older: "HO-LY—" Younger: "He's the biggest, baddest, Beast Machine ever. And watch this!" Beast Machines! The challenge is in the change! Older: "Nice match, big guy." Younger: "New Beast Machines Electronic Cheetor Supreme. Sold separately."

"Nightscream likes EXTRA ketchup." (Actual dialog)

• Nightscream and Ultra Jetstorm - 30 sec

Animation: Excerpts of Jetstorm and Nightscream transforming.

Narration: None, apart from "New Beast Machines Electronic Jetstorm and Electronic Nightscream sold separately" by Jetstorm Kid.

Toy segment: Two kids ordering food are informed by the lady behind the counter that there is only one order of fries left, so they decide to fight it out with their Transformers. The "bad" kid grabs Ultra Jetstorm and shows it off for viewers' benefit, while the "good" kid transforms his Ultra Nightscream and shoots Jetty with his disk launcher. Nightscream Kid wins and tells Jetstorm Kid that "Nightscream likes EXTRA ketchup." on his fries. Jetstorm Kid warns him not to push it.

Small kid: "I'll take it." Slightly bigger kid: "No, I'LL take it!" Both: "Challenge!" Beast Machines! Bigger kid: "Jetstorm will strike. Like. Lightning." The challenge is in the change! Smaller kid: "No way! Nightscream's gonna— clip your wings." Bigger kid: "Your day is over Nightscream." Smaller kid: "You're grounded Jetlag!" <kids cheer> Beast Machines! The challenge is in the change! Smaller kid: "Nightscream likes EXTRA ketchup." Bigger kid: "Don't push it. New Beast Machines Electonic Jetstorm and Electronic Nightscream, sold separately."

Cartoon

• Season Two promo - 20 sec

Animation: Various cartoon excerpts.

Narration: Maurice LaMarche (?) and various local announcers.

Maximize your mornings for an all new season of Beast Machines! "Fantastic!" You'll meet new friends. "My name's Botanica" New enemies. "YESSSSS..." Plus a ton of a new thrills. "Blammo!"

• YTV promo 2 - 30 sec

Animation: An excerpt from Endgame Pt. III: Seeds of the Future as normal, then reversed in a loop.

Narration: Edward Glen (as Optimus Primal) in an intentionally doofy voice dub featuring any other voice removed and the original sound effects replaced with more comedic ones.

A bewildered Optimus Primal finds himself falling and then grabs onto some molding on the side of a building. The molding gives way and he falls down the side of the building. He mistakes the sparks created by his scraping fingernails as something shooting from his fingers. He finally catches another piece of molding as Megatron (in his Optimal Optimus body) strafes him. As he tries to explain that he's not King Kong, the scene reverses itself and he finds himself stuck in some sort of time loop.

Notes: This ad doesn't mention anything about the series finale from which the animation is taken. In fact, this seems to be just a regular old promo for the show. Assuming this aired before Endgame Pt. II: When Legends Fall, anyone eagle-eyed enough to spot Optimal Optimus' jetmode would've caught a hefty spoiler.

(Falling) "Auuuuuugh, oof. Whoaaaa, oof. Heywhatarethosethingscomingatme—augh. Oh, these things—oh, hey, I'M NOT KING KONG I TOLD YOU I'M OPTIMUS, what the, oh I gotta hide, oh, ho, whatever those things are, augh, these beams gotta be stronger, auuuuuuuuugh, hey, oh no, here they come again, what is going on, I'm in a time warp, get me out of here! Augh. Oh no! These things are, auuuugh!" Beast Machines. Thursday at eight. Keep it weird. On YTV.

Robots in Disguise (2001)

Robots In Disguise featured a return to some of The Transformerss distinctive traits, namely the "More than meets the eye" and "Robots in disguise" taglines and the use of Kidmation. The return to the original tag lines has continued to the present day, at least for the main toylines. The Kidmation involved both of the kids featured in the ad turning to the camera while each holding one of the toys up to it and mouthing along with the "Robots in disguise" lyric of the commercials' theme music. The theme song was unique to the ads, being a completely different song from that of the actual cartoon. Robots in Disguises toy ads featured a distinctive video effect of letterboxing widescreen format footage of kids playing with toys. At the start of an ad, the top border would be red with text "Transformers" and the lower border would be blue with the words "Robots in Disguise". During the ad the borders would change to a single color (red for the Autobots, blue for the Decepticons) with a faction name at the bottom and character names rotating at the top. The toy segments themselves took place mainly in various indoors locations such as a basement or the upstairs and front lawn of a house. The Trainbots ad, appropriately enough depicts the kids as riding inside of a bullet train. The ads continued the use of "Fast Motion" transformations and added a new disclaimer noting that "actual change times may vary".

The cartoon advertising was very similar to Beast Machines, keeping many of the same tactics such as network versions of ads, shorter 10 second versions of ads and advertising during the end credits of other shows. Robots in Disguise got an advertising campaign for it's premiere episode, much like its predecessor. Unlike its predecessor, it sadly did not receive its own music video.

2001

Toys

Neither golden retriever, nor lawn mower, nor white picket fence, nor bright of day, shall stay these kids from the swift completion of their appointed Prime.

• Optimus Prime and Ultra Magnus - 30 sec

Animation: Megatron transforms, and Optimus Prime finds himself surrounded by the Predacons.

Narration: Steve Blum

Kidmation: The two kids featured in the ad.

Toy segment: Two kids who live next door to each other grab their respective Autobot Super figures and run into each other at full speed; as soon as they touch, they combine!

Notes: One of the kids had a poster for the 1986 animated movie in his room. The whole commercial has a dubbed over feel, as Megatron and Optimus Prime sound nothing like the voices used for the show (presumably because casting had not yet been done) and the sound quality of the narration seems below that of the rest of the commercial.

• Optimus Prime and Ultra Magnus 30 sec - Same as previous commercial, but Neil Kaplan voices Optimus Prime and the narration is the actor used for the rest of the Robots in Disguise commercials. The blank panels in the first kid's comic book have been filled in with an appropriate screenshot and quote, though it's still surrounded by panels from "Prime Time!". Also, the background music doesn't stop while the kids shout to each other from their windows.

"You can't get away this time Optimus Prime!" "Ultra Magnus, I need your help." Kids: "Ultra Magnus! I'm in trouble!" "I'll be right there!" Transformers! More than meets the eye! Beware Megatron, Optimus Prime and Ultra Magnus combine to form the supreme warrior. Kids: "Omega Prime's unstoppable!"

Nope, still not fearsome or impressive.

• Megatron, Sky-Byte and Deluxe Cars - 30 sec, 15 sec

Animation: CGI Optimus Prime transforms from truck to super-mode; Cartoon excerpts of Megatron (with correct voice) talking, Optimus transforming, and Sky-Byte taking a chunk out of the rear of a moving vehicle.

Narration: Steve Blum

Kidmation: The two kids featured in the ad.

Toy segment: Kids yell the names of the toys while showing them off or transforming them. They do this in what appears to be a poorly lit basement of some sort.

Notes: "Prowl" just does not sound fearsome or impressive no matter how much you growl when you yell it.

Megatron: "Optimus Prime, my Predacons will crush you into scrap metal!" Kid 1: "Sky-Byte, attack!" Optimus Prime: "Take on the Autobots and you'll be the one crushed, Megatron!" Kid 2: "Side-Burn!" Kid 1: "X-Brawn!" Kid 2: "PROWL!" Both: "GO!" Transformers, each sold seperately. Actual change time will vary.

Hey, show us your Lark pack!

• Team Bullet Train and Galvatron - 30 sec, 15 sec

Animation: Cartoon excerpts - Team Bullet Train finishes forming Rail Racer; Galvatron says "Foolish Autobots! Bring it on!".

Narration: Steve Blum

Kidmation: The two kids featured in the ad.

Toy segment: Two kids play with the bullet trains aboard a subway car.

Notes: The narration names Midnight Express then Rapid Run, but they're shown on screen in the reverse order. Rail Racer, the Autobot combiner, is strangely described as "rampaging".

Transformers Combiners. Link up Team Bullet Train. Midnight Express, Rail Spike and Rapid Run become the rampaging Rail Racer. "Foolish Autobots, bring it on!" And tangle with the ten forms of the evil Galvatron. Transformers, actual change time may vary. Combiners robots are built from multiple figures. All sold seperately.

• Landfill and Ruination

Animation:

Narration:

Kidmation:

Toy segment:

Notes: This ad is known to exist but no footage has surfaced online so far.

Cartoon

• Series premiere promo - 30 sec

Animation: Various cartoon excerpts.

Narration: Koji Onishi (Jason Spisak), Optimus Prime (Neil Kaplan) and various other Autobots as a group, "ONLY on Fox Kids".

Koji: Strap in, because this ride's about to... "Transform." "Transform!" Transform! Shift it, make it, turn it, twist it! Koji: Predacons, you've messed with the wrong planet! Shape it, size it, live it, we got it! Koji: Autobots, Megatron's arrived on Earth "Coming." "Hahahaha..." "Optimus, battle mode NOW!" Fight it, take it, strike it, we stopped it! Koji: All right! "Let's do IT again!" Don't miss the premiere of Transformers: Robots In Disguise, Saturday morning, September 8th. ONLY on Fox Kids.

• Series premiere promo #2 - 20 sec

Animation: Excerpts from Battle Protocol!

Narration: ONLY on Fox Kids

They came to destroy earth. NOW, the only ones strong enough to take them on, "Autobots, emergency!" are hiding right, under, your...HOOD! "Transform, NOW!" Don't miss the premiere of Transformers: Robots In Disguise, Saturday morning, September 8th. ONLY on Fox Kids.

• Shift, Shape, & Save - 30 sec

Animation: Various cartoon excerpts.

Narration: Koji Onishi (Jason Spisak), Optimus Prime (Neil Kaplan), various other Autobots as a group, and John Garry.

Notes: While this ad is named "Shift, Shape & Save", the ad's narration says "Shift, Shape, and Strike". This commercial was aired in various lengths with various end tags. Version names below are confirmed, except where noted.

Hey, wanna lift? Because where we're going, these Autobots watch your back to protect you— "Now!" Whoaaa! —from the Predacons using three ultra mega moves! "Shift, shape, and strike!" "Here, lemme give you a hand." "Let's get out of here!" Alright, now that's what I call mass transit! Transformers: Robots In Disguise. All new, this Saturday morning at eight Eastern, seven Central and Pacific. ONLY on Fox Kids.

Version	Length	Link
All New Saturday 8E/7C&P	0:30 NET	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qIkfT81hOA&t=1m35s
Mon-Fri Afternoons & Saturday Mornings	0:30 NET	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qIkfT81hOA&t=2m09s
Station	0:30 STA	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qIkfT81hOA&t=2m41s
All New Saturday 8E/7C&P	0:20 NET	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qIkfT81hOA&t=3m14s
Mon-Fri Afternoons & Saturday Mornings	0:20 NET	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qIkfT81hOA&t=3m36s
Station	0:20 STA	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qIkfT81hOA&t=4m00s
Coming Up (unconfirmed)	0:20 NET	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dN4yssbZv5A
All New Saturday 8E/7C&P	0:10 NET	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qIkfT81hOA&t=4m23s
Mon-Fri Afternoons & Saturday Mornings	0:10 NET	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qIkfT81hOA&t=4m35s
Station	0:10 STA	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qIkfT81hOA&t=4m49s
Coming Up (unconfirmed)	0:10 NET	http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWnayVCMUC0

• Cartoon promo - 20 sec, 10 sec

Animation: Excerpts of Optimus Prime, Ultra Magnus, Scourge, Galvatron and the Commandos.

Narration: Koji Onishi (Jason Spisak).

Sit down, hold on and hush up, because in the battle for Earth, you're either gonna lead, follow, or get out of the way! "Tremble with fear, I AM GALVATRON!" "You're goin' down, down, down, down." "Transform!" Catch an all-new episode of Transformers: Robots in Disguise, next Saturday morning only on Fox Kids!

• Cartoon promo 2 - 20 sec

Animation: Many of the same excerpts used in "Shift, Shape, & Save".

Narration: Don LaFontaine

This summer, Fox Kids will transform your TV into a blockbuster action machine. Transformers. Today after Digimon, on Fox Kids.

• Cartoon promo 3 - 30 sec

Animation: Many of the same excerpts used in "Shift, Shape, & Save" along with excerpts of Fortress Maximus and "Super" Side Burn.

Narration: Alternating unknown male and female announcers.

[Weight:] Male: "Fifteen tons." Female:"All muscle." [A.I.:] "Artificial intelligence." "It's real." [Engine:] "One hundred thousand horse power." "Real dominance." [Fuel:] "The Matrix powers." "High octane." [Speed:] "From zero to action." "In a flash." [Mission:] "To save Earth." "No surrender."

Go-Bots

Go-Bots was not a large campaign for Hasbro with only two known ads. But it's notable nonetheless, because the rap is back! And this time without the tortured rhymes.

2002

Now if the guy had found a way to turn the "each sold separately" disclaimer into a rap too...

• Transformers: Go-Bots 30 sec, 15 sec

Animation: Cartoon excerpt of Aero-Bot transforming while Beast-Bot and Speed-Bot look on.

Narration: Rap Guy

Toy segment: The toys turn around on invisible turntables and transform.

Sent to Earth from a world far away, Trans-for-mers Go-Bots can save day! Go Go Go Bots. Transformers: Go-Bots. A robot is what you see but that's not all that it can be. Aero-Bot, Beast-Bot, and Speed-Bot go! They only change, when you say so! Go Go Go Bots. When danger strikes, they rearrange. One, two, three, got the power to change! Go Go Go Bots. Transformers: Go-Bots. Playskool plays cool. Transformers: Go-Bots located in the Playskool aisle. Sold seperately.

2003

• Hauler-Bot 30 sec

Animation: Hauler-Bot departs a distant planet, then lands on Earth.

Narration: Rap Guy

Toy segment: Two boys playing with the Hauler-Bot components in front of green-screened techno-ish backgrounds of varying colors.

Notes: Yes, the race car Go-Bot being loaded into Hauler-Bot is in fact named Aero-Bot. We don't get it either.

Sent to Earth from a world far away, Hauler-Bot Go-Bot saves the day! Go Go Go Bots. GoGoGo Go-Bots! Hauler-Bot is what you see, you can change him into three. Go Go Go Bots. "Robot mode activated!" Pteradactyl, turtle, robot go! They rearrange when you say so! Hauler-Bot's in trucking mode. Load Aero-Bot and hit the road. Go Go Go Bots. Playskool plays cool. Hauler-Bot and other Go-Bots figures each sold separately. Located in the Playskool aisle.

Armada

2002

Transformers: Armada carried through some of the Robots In Disguise advertising elements, using the red and blue borders (albeit thinner and without the character names) for the first years' ads and using a very similar theme song. In contrast to it's predecessor, it shifted away somewhat from having the kids and animation clips provide most of the narration. The majority of the ads have a narrator providing story context for the battle being waged by the children.

Toys

But when I looked behind me, I only saw... uh... nine sets of footprints?

• Mini-Cons, Red Alert, Starscream, Megatron 30 sec, 15 sec

Animation: From a sand background, CGI Sonar emerges from a Mini-Con storage panel. Sped-up cartoon footage of Megatron transforming.

Narration: Even Keel

Toy segment: Kids play with the toys in a sandy environment with a sunset background. Woo woo woo woo. "Swindle. Starscream. Missiles away. Powerlink Mini-Cons for maximum firepower!"

Kidmation: Terrifyingly large-mouthed kids hold the toys and mouth "robots in disguise" while the camera bobs drunkenly.

Newww Transformers: Armada. With Powerlinking Mini-Con warriors! Unite them with Transformers: Armada figures to unlock hidden features. Kid 1: "Longhorn, Powerlink to Red Alert!" Unlock new weapons, new attacks... Kid 2: "Swindle, Starscream, missiles away! Powerlink Mini-Cons for maximum firepower!" New battles in the fight between good and evil. Newww Transformers: Armada. Each sold seperately, actual change time will vary.

• Megatron and Optimus Prime 30 sec

Animation: From a watery background, CGI Grindor emerges from a storage panel. Cartoon excerpt: Optimus Prime stock footage.

Narration: Even Keel

Toy segment: Kids play with the toys in a sand-laden diorama environment. That can't be good for Prime's electronic innards.

Kidmation: The large-mouthed kids again, with different toys.

Newww Transformers: Armada. Join Optimus Prime and Megatron in the battle for the Mini-Cons. Kid 1: "Megatron, prepare for attack!" But Optimus Prime prevails in three modes: vehicle, base and super robot. YOU convert the truck cab, the trailer unfolds into a Mini-Con base station. Then convert again to build SUPER Optimus Prime. Kid 2: "Back off, Megatron!" Newww Transformers: Armada. Each sold seperately, actual change time will vary.

Walky's dream job.

• Laserbeak, Hot Shot, Demolishor 30 sec, 15 sec

Narration: Even Keel

Animation: From an ice background, CGI Jolt emerges from a storage panel. Cartoon excerpts: Hot Shot stock footage; Demolishor and Cyclonus running and firing.

Toy segment: Kids play with the toys in a snowy diorama environment.

Kidmation: The large-mouthed kids yet again, with different toys.

Newww Transformers: Armada. With Powerlinking Mini-Con warriors that unlock newww attacks and weapons. Kid 1: "Laserbeak reporting, Decepticons in range!" Convert Hot Shot, then Powerlink with Jolt to fire missiles. Kid 1: "Now let 'em have it!" Kid 2: "Demolishor, Blackout counterattack!" The Mini-Con battle continues in a Transformer fight to the finish. Newww Transformers: Armada. Each sold seperately, actual change time will vary.

Cartoon

• Series premiere promo 1 min, 30 sec

Animation: Various excerpts from the first three episodes of Armada.

Narration: Peter Cullen

Notes: Armada's first three episodes were combined into a mini-movie for its premiere on Toonami. This ad was kind of a big deal to fans as it was the first time Peter Cullen had done any work related to Transformers in thirteen years, dating back to the Action Master ads. There's a bit of cognative dissonance between the narration describing the Autobots as "peaceful defenders" and the clip following being of Prime unleashing an attack.

For centuries untold, the Transformers have waged war across the universe. "Move out!" On one side, Autobots. Peaceful defenders of Cybertron. "Maximum blast!" The other, Decepticons. Destructive scourge of the galaxies. "You have no way to stop us." The prize? Mini-Cons. An ancient race of power enhancing Transformers. Inadvertently, two teens have activated a signal, bringing the chaos of this war to planet Earth. "You have something of mine." Whoever can possess the Mini-Cons will command their great power. Now, every Transformer in the universe will fight to claim them. Or die trying. "Give it up Megatron!" Transformers: Armada. Friday at four. MUCH MORE than meets the eye! "It's time to turn it up!" Only Toonami.

• Cartoon promo 30 sec

Animation: Various cartoon excerpts, plus a brief CGI scene of TOM 2.0.

Narration: None, just the sound bytes from the various cartoon excerpts and the text "Transformers: Armada" at the end.

"Time to settle this once and for all, Megatron!" "I intend to crush you!" "Move out!" "Alright!" "Transform!" "Let the games begin!" "There's no stopping us." "Transform!" "Transform!" "It is our destiny to take control of the Mini-Cons and bring the Autobots to their knees!" [Transformers Armada]

• Armada marathon 30 sec

Animation: Various cartoon excerpts, plus a brief CGI scene of TOM 2.0.

Narration: TOM 2.0 (Steve Blum)

Notes: The phrase uttered by TOM at the end of the ad, "klaatu barada nikto" is a reference to the 1951 sci film The Day the Earth Stood Still. It appears this is meant to indicate that the marathon is an event so momentous it will make the Earth stand still. That or TOM is Earth's greatest hero.

"Transform!" "—form!" "Transform!" "Time to bring out the heavy artillery." Everyone loves transforming robots... "Yes, now you're talking." "Transform!" but sometimes twenty-two minutes isn't enough. "Transform now!" We're here for ya. "Nice." Toonami's giving you a Transformers marathon. "Give it to me right now." Four hours of Autobots versus Decepticons. "Right now Megatron!" Transformers: Armada. Sunday, December 8th, one to four. Klaatu barada nikto.

2003

The Decepticon menace.

• Galvatron, Scavenger, Jetfire, Optimus Prime 30 sec

Narration: Even Keel

Animation: Cartoon stock footage of Optimus Prime Powerlinxing with Jetfire.

Toy segment: In what looks like a Santiago Calatrava building, Scavenger takes on Galvatron; Jetfire and Prime combine to counterattack.

Kidmation: Two kids stand with their toys, back-to-back as if to make a final stand, while mouthing along with "robots in disguise!"

Transformers: Armada. The Autobots and Decepticons in action again, in the battle for ultimate control. Kid 1: "Jetfire reporting, Scavenger's in trouble!" Kid 2: "Good try Scavenger but not good enough." You can combine Jetfire with Optimus Prime for maximum firepower to take on the Decepticon menace. Kid 1: "Pick on someone your own size!" Transformers: Armada. Each sold separately, actual change time will vary. Batteries not included.

• Blurr, Sideways, Thrust, Side Swipe 15 sec

Narration: Even Keel

Toy segment: Kids play with the toys in some kind of modernist corporate office setting.

Kidmation: Back-to-back for the final stand again, this time against the corporate office's windows.

Notes: This commercial revealed Sideways to be a traitor long before the TV series did, spoiling the surprise for many fans.

Another battle for ultimate control! Kid 1: "Blurr attacks!" And Sideways betrays. Can Sideswipe save the day? Kid 2: "Blast him!" Each sold separately, actual change time will vary.

• Overload, Powerlinx Optimus Prime, Tidal Wave, Galvatron 30 sec

Animation: Cartoon stock footage of Optimus Prime combined with Overload and Megatron combining with Tidal Wave.

Narration: Even Keel

Toy segment: Kids play with the toys near a public water fountain.

Transformers: Armada. "Back off Autobot fools!" "It's over Galvatron!" "Not quite, Tidal Wave report! Ready for combination!" "Prepare for our combined wave of punishment!" "Whoa look out. Optimus, Overload, combine!" "Why don't you just wave goodbye?" Transformers. Each sold separately, batteries not included, actual change time will vary.

Johnny didn't do so well on his science project this year.

• Unicron 30 sec, 15 sec

Animation: Excerpt from The Transformers: The Movie of Unicron slamming his hand down on Cybertron's surface, accompanied by a newly recorded voice-over proclaiming "The universe is mine!". Also has an excerpt of Optimus Prime stock footage with Optimus telling Unicron to "fight someone your own size."

Narration: Even Keel

Toy segment: A kid plays with the toys, first in front of a projected space background, then in something resembling an empty warehouse.

He devours entire worlds, his name is Unicron and he's headed for Earth. "Fight someone your own size Unicron." "Obviously, Optimus Prime, that would not be you!" Will he crush the Transformers in his evil grip? Or just blast them into oblivion? "The universe is mine!" Transformers. Each sold separately, batteries not included, actual change time will vary.

• Built to Rule! 30 sec

Animation: Cartoon excerpt of Optimus Prime pointing down a tunnel and then turning his head while commanding the Autobots to find the Mini-Cons.

Narration: Unknown.

Toy segment: Two kids playing with the building sets on the wood floor of what appears to be a basement.

Notes: The ad stresses that every set comes with real projectile launchers. The narration almost exclusively refers to Built to Rule! by it's BTR abbreviation, mentioning the full name only as a tag line.

B. T. R. Built to Rule! Introducing new BTR building sets, where you can create and construct your own Transformers vehicles. Optimus Prime: "Autobots, let's find those Mini-Cons!" Kid: "Jetfire, Decepticons up ahead!" BTR is the only building set that lets you build and convert your favorite Transformers vehicles into robots when the action heats up! Kid: "It's over Megatron!" And battle Autobots against Decepticons with real projectile launchers in every set. B. T. R. Built to Rule! You can find BTR in the construction aisle. Actual build time will vary. Each sold seperately.

2004

• PlayStation 2 Armada game commercial 30 sec

Narration: Unknown.

Notes: The ad is composed of game footage with a rock soundtrack. Soundtrack is "Wishbone" by the band Dropbox, who are actually shown rocking out between excerpts of game footage.

Starscream: "There's no escape." The ultimate conflict begins. Transformers for the Playstation 2 console. Rated T for Teen.

• PlayStation 2 Armada game trailer 1 2:04

Narration: No vocal narration, just some text.

Notes: Idyllic scenes of nature on earth are followed by scenes of the Decepticon army mobilizing with an epic choral tune playing the background. The mood shifts as scenes of the Autobots taking action are accompanied by a rock version of the Generation 1 theme. The "Transformers, robots in disguise" clip used in the rock rendition of the theme seems to be taken from the original G1 Season 1 theme song. This trailer is composed mostly of actual gameplay footage with a smattering of cut scene footage thrown in.

[Earth is not going to war.] [War is coming to Earth.] [War starts May 2004]

• PlayStation 2 Armada game trailer 2 1:21

Notes: Scenes of nature are followed by the Decepticons' arrival and subsequent battles with the Autobots.

[The ultimate conflict begins.]

• Playstation 2 Armada game trailer 3 2:04

Notes: A Decepticon army is shown attacking on Cybertron. Megatron's fist defiantly raises up through an Autobot sigil. As missiles fly by, Hot Shot and Red Alert jump down from a high door. They land and look up to see Megatron and Optimus Prime engaging in a hand to hand battle. Megatron gets the upperhand, picks up Prime by his head and utters a famous line about eternity. He then looks over to see Hot Shot and Red Alert now looking down over a Cybertronian freeway as battles rage on. Apparently, the Megatron/Prime battle was somehow not interesting enough. Megatron resumes his beating, whipping Prime into a wall. He then grabs Prime by the head again and thrusts him back into the wall. He continues reprising the famous conversation, declaring that "It's over, Prime.". Suddenly, a Mini-Con energy wave beams down between the two leaders, drawing Megatron's attention. It shows visions of the Mini-Cons landing on Earth. Megatron gives a command to the Decepticons (in general) to trace the wave's origin. Prime tells the Autobots that they must stop Megatron.

[Planet CYBERTRON] [NOW] Megatron: "I would've waited an eternity for this. It's over, Prime. The Mini-Cons...Decepticons trace the energy wave to it's origin." Optimus Prime: "Autobots, we must stop Megatron. Roll out!"

Energon

Transformers: Energon may have some of the least thematically consistent toy segments of any series' commercials. All of the ads feature kids playing with the toys on a nondescript table tops. Earlier ads featured the kids playing on tables in industrial office looking spaces, while the later ads opted for a white table with alternating colored backdrops, red for Autobots and purple for Decepticons. Most of the ads uses the toy footage in a striaghtforward manner but the Deluxe Autobots ad uses rotoscoping to drop the video clips into the frame. The Air Team ad is an even further departure, dropping the kids altogether and just showing the toys against a weird gradient backdrop with the frame fitted into a weird CGI metallic honeycomb design. In general, the use of cartoon excerpts was toned down. This is possibly due to the cartoon animation's very undynamic motion being unsuitable for trying to make the toys look exciting or interesting. Energon featured the cartoon theme as the commercial music, the first time since Beast Wars any part of the cartoon theme was incorporated into the commercial.

2004

Toys

Energon Unicron? Where you been!?

• Scorponok and Optimus Prime 15 sec

Narration: Even Keel, with the cartoon's theme music.

Toy segment: Kids playing with the toys on tabletop in what looks like a basement or maybe a warehouse.

Notes: Energon Unicron appears in the static shot of the toys at the end, as well as in the background of some of the other toy scenes. This suggests that the full thirty second version of the ad would feature Energon Unicron in a more prominent way.

Transformers: Energon. Kid 1: "Earth's energon is mine!" Kid 2: "Not so fast Scorponok! Optimus! Powerlinx! Here's your energon!" Kid 1: "I'll be back Optimus Prime!" Transformers:Energon. Eachsoldseparatelybatteriesnotincludedactualchangetimewillvary.

• Shockblast, Energon Ironhide, Jetfire 30 sec 15 sec

Animation: Cartoon excerpt of Shockblast turning around after transforming.

Narration: Even Keel, with the cartoon's theme music.

Toy segment: Kids play with the toys on a tabletop.

Kidmation: Split screen of the two kids striking a pose and holding up their toys to the camera while mouthing along with "Robots In Disguise".

Autobots vs Decepticons. Transformers: Energon. Shockblast is on the hunt for power. Kid 1: "We're taking this planet's Energon!" Only Jetfire and Energon Ironhide stand in his way. Kid 2: "Powerlinx and prepare for attack! Hyper power blast!" Kid 1: "That's not enough power to stop Optimus Prime." Transformers: Energon. Eachsoldseparatelybatteriesnotincludedactualchangetimewillvary.

• Starscream, Terrorcons, Deluxe Autobots 30 sec, 15 sec

Narration: Even Keel.

Toy segment: Various kids on viewscreens are rotoscoped into the frame like members of some sinister corporation's executive board.

Kidmation: The three kids drop separately into the rotoscope and mouth along to the song while holding up Hot Shot powerlinxed with Rodimus, Starscream and Inferno powerlinxed with Prowl.

Notes: When the kids list off the deluxe Autobots, one of them yells Prowl. It's still not intimidating.

Transformers: Energon. Decepticons attack with Hyper Power. Kid 1: "It's Starscream and the Terrorcons." Kid 2: "Going somewhere Autobots?" But the Autobot combiners fight back. Kid 1: "Autobots Powerlinx!" Create your own Powerlinx combinations with... Kid 1: "Rodimus!" Kid 2: "Inferno!" Kid 3: "Hotshot!" Kid 1: "Prowl!" Transformers: Energon. Each sold seperately, actual change time will vary.

Oddly better quality than the show.

• Omega Supreme and Megatron 30 sec

Animation: Cartoon excerpt: Omega Supreme spins around in space.

Narration: Even Keel

Toy segment: Two kids play with the toys on a tabletop. The background color coordinates with the faction of the toy being shown, with the faction sigil being used when each color initially appears.

Kidmation: Two serious-faced kids on a split screen hold up Omega and Megatron, while mouthing along with the hard rock theme song.

Autobots vs Decepticons. Transformers: Energon. The Autobots' largest robot has arrived on Earth. Omega Supreme. A Transformers of such awesome size and power, no Decepticon can stop him. Not even Megatron. Kid 1: "Your weapons are useless against Prince of Space him!" Kid 2: "End of the line Megatron." Transformers: Energon. Actual change time will vary.

Cartoon

• Energon marathon 30 sec

Animation: Various cartoon excerpts and a brief CGI scene featuring TOM 3.0.

Narration: TOM 3.0 (Steve Blum)

Every Friday at five, Toonami's got a little something special. Next Friday, "Must have Energon!" the battle to control the Earth's supply of Energon is raging so hard (phrasing!), we're giving Optimus and the gang some extra airtime. "Now they're in trouble!" Check out four all new episodes of Transformers: Energon from five to seven. He who controls the energon, controls the universe. "That's our cue boys!"

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• Thanksgiving Day marathon 30 sec

Animation: Various cartoon excerpts.

Narration: Unknown.

This Thanksgiving, all the world, will tremble. As the battle between good and evil escalates to galactic proportions. "Do it now!" Cartoon Network presents: a six hour marathon of Transformers: Energon. And be sure to watch the two world premiere episodes. "Whoa, that's incredible." Transformers: Energon. Thanksgiving Day from nine to three. Only on Cartoon Network.

• Transformers: Energon on Miguzi 30 sec

Animation:

Narration: Unknown.

"Move out!" "Yes sir!" Your favorite Transformers are battling it out for the universe. "It's just like old times, isn't it?" Log on to CartoonNetwork.com forward slash Transformers to check brand new episodes, download new episodes online now and watch Transformers: Energon on Miguzi starting October fourth at six. "That's our cue boys!" Apply online, watch on Miguzi.

Other

• VHS & DVD trailer 30 sec

Animation: Excerpts from Transformers: Energon.

Narration: Jim Cummings

Notes: Promotes the videos "The Battle for Energon" and "The Return of Megatron".

Hasbro and Paramount Home Entertainment present Transformers: Energon on DVD and VHS for the first time ever. In a world that is constantly evolving, change means power and power means everything. "Optimus Prime, super mode!" Especially on the planet Earth where a vital source of strength, energon, can be found. "The most powerful energy in the universe, Energon. It is in abundance on Earth." Now, the Decepticons need it to get stronger... "We'll need a lot more Energon. Bring us more, bring us more!" The Autobots need it to survive... "Protect the energon line at all costs." And when the eternal struggle continues, the countdown to extinction begins...Now Hasbro's Transformers: Energon is on DVD and VHS, with special bonus features only you can control. Transformers: Energon, available now on DVD and VHS. Look for more Transformers adventures coming soon. Transformers, more than meets the eye!

2005

• Air Team and Optimus Prime 30 sec, 20 sec

Animation: Cartoon excerpts: Optimus Prime forms his super mode; The Air Team forms Superion Maximus, then attacks Constructicon Maximus and Bruticus Maximus.

Narration: Dramatic Guy (30 second version), Fast guy (20 second version)

Toy segment: Various shots of the toys in their robot modes.

Notes: This commercial appears to represent an alternate continuity. Optimus Prime is implied to have created either combiners in general or just the Air Team in particular. The commercial includes a "Batteries not included" disclaimer, despite the fact that none of the featured toys uses batteries. The twenty second version of the ad features a different narrator with a slightly different spiel that doesn't mention Optimus creating the combiners/Air Team.

Transformers, robots in disguise, they're more than meets the eye! Optimus Prime. Autobot leader and protector of universal freedom. In the heat of the Powerlinx Battles, he creates a new way to fight in the quest for energon. Enter the Air Team. An elite group of five Autobot heroes. Using the power of combination, they create the ultimate robot to fight the Decepticon threat. Transformers: Energon. You can join the Powerlinx Battles. Available now. Each sold seperately. Batteries not included.

Cybertron

Hasbro seemingly cut back on advertising quantity for Transformers: Cybertron with only two known full 30 second ads produced and a third created by trimming down one of the full ads. Quality however, was up with the use of a live action story segment in the first ad and a return to using diormas to highlight the toys in the second ad. Cartoon Network's advertising, which had featured Peter Cullen mostly by coincidence since he was one of the main Toonami narrators, leaned into that synergy for it's ads in 2007. Presumably to help highlight and/or capitalize on his official return to the brand in that year's blockbuster film, Cullen's narration would begin to consistently end with him reprising Optimus Prime's famous "Roll out!" command.

2005

Toys

And you thought Sari's AllSpark Key was impressive.

• Optimus Prime, Megatron, Starscream 30 sec

Narration: Dramatic Guy

Live-action segment: A kid runs down a laser-lit passageway with a frisbee-sized Cyber Planet Key, which he uses to unlock a giant door, which opens to reveal a giant CG Cybertron Optimus Prime!

Toy segment: Two kids playing with the toys in a very strange empty room with a shiny floor, red, blue and yellow lights shining from slighty above floor level on one end and apparently a single white light on the other end so you can see the toys. Optimus Prime uses his Cyber Key Power to take down Megatron, but the giant Starscream has his own Cyber Key!

The key to a new Transformers world is in your hands! Transformers: Cybertron! NEW! Cyber Planet keys unlock hidden powers! Optimus Prime launches an attack to battle the evil Megatron, but the giant Starscream has his own Cyber Planet Key and won't go down without a fight! Unlock the power. Transformers: Cybertron. Sold separately, batteries not included, you can go to Transformers.com! Ask your parents first.

• Starscream 15 sec - Edited down from the previous commercial, with new narration focusing solely on Starscream.

Cartoon

• Cybertron on Toonami 30 sec

Animation: Various cartoon excerpts and a CGI scene of a Clyde explorer robot spray painting the Cybertron logo and airtime on a wall.

Narration: TOM 3.0 (Steve Blum)

The destruction of Unicron has created a black hole, which threatens to swallow the planet. "Let's go!" Now the Autobots' only hope, is to find the ancient planet keys. "Prepare for battle!" But as usual the Decepticons aren't playing along. "Beat it, Megatron!" "Oh really?" Transformers: Cybertron. New episodes Saturdays at seven. Unlock the power. "Gotcha!" Only Toonami.

• Cybertron on the Kids' WB Aftertoons Show 10 sec

Animation: Various cartoon excerpts, the Kids' WB rendering of the Warner Brothers' studio lot.

Narration: Mr. Action

Re-energize your weekdays with Transformers: Cybertron. All new Monday through Friday at four thirty. On the Kids' WB Aftertoons Show.

2006

Toys

Somehow more exciting than the TV show.

• Crumplezone, Downshift, Evac 30 sec

Animation: Transformers: Cybertron logo flips to Autobot sigil which flips to Decepticon sigil.

Narration: Dramatic Guy

Toy segment: A whole little plot plays out in an impressive-looking diorama environment. Dark Crumplezone steals a silver-bordered Earth Cyber Key! He transforms into vehicle mode, uses the Cyber Key Power and races off with the heroic Autobots Downshift and Evac in hot pursuit! Oh noes! Crumplezone shoves Downshift off the cliff-edge road they are racing on. Downshift is transformed and grabs Evac's rescue rope, then blasts Crumplezone into oblivion. The Key is saved!

Notes: Oddly, and in contrast to previous commercials, Paul Oakenfold's Cybertron theme song is not used. Instead, they appear to have reverted to the music used for the Transformers: Armada commercials. This is the first Transformers commercial to feature a diorama since the Beast Wars Transmetals commercials.

Transformers: More than meets the eye! An evil Decepticon steals a powerful Cyber Key and changes modes to make his escape! And the heroic Autobots, Downshift and Evac, are in hot pursuit! But when the battle swerves out of control, only Transformers can change defeat into victory!. Each sold seperately, actual change time will vary. Ask your parents to take you to Transformers.com!

2007

Cartoon

• Cybertron marathon 30 sec, 15 sec

Animation: Various cartoon excerpts.

Narration: Peter Cullen

All set to transform this summer? "Bring it on!" Well Toonami's got just the thing for you! "Brace yourselves!" Next Saturday at seven, we're giving you four back to back episodes of Transformers: Cybertron. "You still won't defeat me." "Try me." All you have to do, is sit there on your couch. It's the Transformers marathon. Next Saturday night from seven to nine. Roll out! "Right!" Only Toonami. On Cartoon Network.

• Sneak peek after the Cybertron marathon 30 sec

Animation: Various Cybertron excerpts.

Narration: Peter Cullen for the Cartoon Network section, unknown narrator for the movie disclaimer.

Notes: This spot promoted a sneak preview of Transformers that aired after a Saturday marathon of Transformers: Cybertron. Features several scenes from the movie, all of which were frequently used in promo spots.

Can't wait to transform this summer? "Bring it on!" Well, Toonami's hooking you up VIP style. "That's a good thing right?" This Saturday night, we're showing you a bright and shiny sneak peak at the new Transformers movie, after the Transformers: Cybertron marathon. How's nineish for you? Let's roll out! Only Toonami. On Cartoon Network. Brought to you by Transformers. Rated PG-13. In theaters July 3rd.

Star Wars Transformers

Now the space wizards are robots, too!

Star Wars Transformers advertising leaned heavily into the Star Wars themeing, using the same style as the regular Star Wars toyline ads of the time.

2006

• Darth Vader and Obi-Wan Kenobi 15 sec

Narration: 2006-2007 Guy.

Toy segment: Two kids, one pseudo-dressed as a Sith Lord in a black hoodie and the other as a Jedi Knight in a beige polo and brown hoodie, play with Darth Vader and Obi-Wan respectively.

Notes: Features excerpts of Darth Vader from Episode IV: A New Hope and Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back.

"I have you now!" NEW! Star Wars Transformers. Mech mode or vehicle mode. The battle for the universe rages on! "Most impressive." Star Wars Transformers. Each sold separately. Actual change time will vary.

Time to pull the wishbone!

• Millennium Falcon and Slave I 30 sec

Narration: 2006-2007 Guy.

Toy segment: Two unseen individuals demonstrate the play features of the Millennium Falcon and Slave I in front of a "Death Star interior" background.

Notes: Features excerpts of Han Solo and Chewbacca in the Millennium Falcon from Episode IV: A New Hope and Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back.

Star Wars Transformers. The Slave-1 and the Millenium Falcon locked in combat. Suddenly the Slave I unleashes it's secret weapon, changing into the deviously destructive Boba Fett mech. "Oh yeah, watch this!" But the Millenium Falcon has a surprise of it's own, doubling it's power by changing into the heroic Han Solo and Chewbacca mechs. "Great shot kid, that was one in a million!" Star Wars Transformers. Millenium Falcon and Slave I sold seperately.

2007

• Death Star 30 sec

Narration: 2006-2007 Guy.

Toy segment: An unseen individual demonstrates the toy's features in front of a space background.

Notes: Features an excerpt of the Death Star destroying Alderaan from Episode IV: A New Hope.

Star Wars Transformers. The Death Star has the firepower to destroy entire planets. And now another top secret weapon you've never seen before. The Star Wars Darth Vader Death Star, with a light up super laser. But this Death Star has Transformers technology, changing into the massive Darth Vader mech. "Join me on the dark side." Now you can control the most devastating power in the galaxy. Star Wars Transformers Darth Vader Death Star. Actual change time will vary.

Attacktix

A short lived tie-in with short commercials. No full 30 second ad has surfaced so far, only two slightly different versions of a fifteen minute ad.

2006

I don't know. I think Prime could take him.

• Attacktix Intergalactic Showdown 15 sec

Narration: 2006-2007 Guy

Toy segment: Group of kids battle with Star Wars and Transformers Attacktix figures upon a table top.

"Optimus Prime beat Darth Vader? No. Way." Find out with Attacktix. New Transformers clash with Star Wars. You can pick your squad, pick your moves, and launch your attack in an intergalactic showdown. Who will be the last one standing? Attacktix battle figure game. Booster packs sold separately.

• Attacktix Intergalactic Showdown 15 sec - Same as the previous commercial but with different toy footage, after the Cybertron Megatron/Darth Vader split screen, featuring Boba Fett, AT-RT and Omega Sentinel. Also has slightly different narration with "in an intergalactic showdown" replaced by the kids arguing "Star Wars!" "Transformers!".

Transformers (2007)

Fitting for a blockbuster movie event, Transformers had an advertising campaign bigger than any other Transformers media had ever gotten before.

Animated

2007

Cartoon

"Here I come to save the day!"

• Transform and Roll Out premiere 30 sec

Animation: Excerpts from Transform and Roll Out.

Narration: Peter Cullen

Bumblebee. Optimus Prime. "Roll out!" Megatron. And more... "Wanna see action kid?" ...like you've never seen them before! "We aren't programmed for this kind of action!" "Consider this an upgrade." The Transformers are getting a fresh start and we're kicking off the animated series with the premiere of the hour and half Transformers: Animated special. The day after Christmas at eight PM. They're more than meets the eye! Only on Cartoon Network.

• Series premiere promo 30 sec

Animation: Excerpts from Transform and Roll Out, The Thrill of the Hunt, and Along Came a Spider.

Narration: Peter Cullen

The Transformers are getting their own brand new series. "Whoa!" Check out Bumblebee, Optimus Prime, Megatron and more in all new stories. "Optimus, look out!" All new action! "Evasive manouvers!" All new Transformers. "Not bad huh?" Transformers, the animated series, starting Saturday, January 5th at ten-thirty AM. They're more than meets the eye. "And I'm just getting warmed up!" Only on Cartoon Network.

2008

Toys

Bulkhead isn't small! He's just faaaar away.

• Wave 1 & 2 Voyagers and Deluxes 30 sec, 15 sec

Animation: The logo screen from the cartoon intro and a cartoon excerpt of life in Detroit followed by Starscream swooping down and firing.

Narration: Dynamic!

Toy segment: Inside a city diorama, the evil Starscream prepares to attack. He has the help of evil Decepticons Blackarachnia and... Lockdown? Luckily, Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, Prowl, and Bulkhead are there to save the day. Notice how Bulkhead is SHORTER than 'Bee.

Notes: Has an end tag advertising the 'Battle Begins' Optimus Prime/Megatron two-pack.

New Transformers Animated. In the future, humans and robots live in peace, but the Decepticons have come to destroy it all. Can anyone stop the sinister Starscream? Luckily, the city has new protectors. Optimus Prime, Bumblebee and the Autobots. They team up to take down the Decepticons and save the city. Transformers Animated. Each sold seperately, actual change time will vary. Now you can see where it all started with the Optimus Prime/Megatron DVD and figure pack.

• Leader Megatron and Rollout Command Optimus Prime 30 sec original, 20 sec with Leader Class Bulkhead, 15 sec, Prime only

Animation: The logo screen from the cartoon intro.

Narration: Dynamic!

Toy segment: Optimus Prime races through a city diorama to meet Megatron and show off his "amazing auto-spin technology!" gimmick.

Note: An alternate 15 second version only features Rollout Command Optimus Prime. An alternate 20 second version of the commercial features Leader Class Bulkhead. And when Megatron attacks, Bulkhead is there for Autobot backup.

Transformers Animated! Guarding the city is a twenty-four hour job for Optimus Prime, because the Decepticons can strike at any time. Megatron hungers for power. Megatron toy: "Where is the Allspark?" But Optimus rolls to the rescue with amazing Auto-Spin Technology! Now Rollout Command Optimus Prime gets ready for battle like never before! Optimus toy: "Bring it on!" One swing from his thundering Ultra Axe, and Megatron's down for the count. Thanks to new Rollout Command Optimus Prime. Transformers Animated figures sold seperately. Actual change time will vary

Cartoon

• YTV promo 30 sec

Animation: Scenes of the Elite Guard arriving on Earth, Captain Fanzone standing by Optimus Prime, Sentinel Prime shaking the hand of Augustus Edsel, and Sentinel as just a head.

Narration: Edward Glen (as Sentinel Prime)

Notes: The animation is re-soundtracked with comedic background music and new narration from Sentinel Prime introducing himself to Captain Fanzone and explaining why it has to be robots.

Greetings Earth creatures. We're from Cybertron and we have come here to improve your lives. "Why did it hafta be robots?" Because we robots are big and strong and we like humans. We offer fashion tips. "Can't, not my size." We can help with exercises. Push, push, and two more, and two more. We can really help you get ahead in life. "Hhhhha ha ha!" "You promised you wouldn't laugh!" Get it? Ahead? Heh heh, eugh. Transformers Animated. Saturday at 11. Anime Crunch.

• YTV promo 2 [1]

Animation: Excerpts of Jazz swinging his nunchucks, Megatron, Wreck-Gar & Lugnut, Sari & Bumblebee playing video games, Optimus Prime being sprayed in the face by water, Optimus Prime laughing at body-less Sentinel Prime, Bumblebee tapping his foot, Sentinel shaking the mayor's hand, Sari sneezing from a cold, Prowl and Bumblebee yelling "space barnacles!" and Jazz recoiling in fear from Sari.

Narration: Edward Glen

Notes: The narrator talks about all the ways humans and Transformers are alike, using the animation as examples.

Other

• McDonald's Happy Meal toys 30 sec

Notes: Ad starts with a segment titled "Stunt McNugget". A kid uses his Happy Meal milk bottle as mic while announcing the Stunt McNugget's attempt to jump a record seven apple slices. The Stunt McNugget, McNugget pierced on the end of straw with a helmet and cape attached, "flies" through a field with grandstands diorama the kids built from McDonald's food packaging and straws. Stunt McNugget overshoots and lands in dipping sauce, becoming "carmelized". The toy promo segment features kids playing with Animated Happy Meal Toys inside a giant, Happy Meal Box-shaped spaceship. Inexplicably, MOVIE Optimus Prime appears in the background.

Transformers toys change from vehicle to robot. There's one Transformers toy inside my McDonald's Happy Meal.

• Transformers Animated: The Game [2]

Notes:Various excerpts of gameplay and animation from the game are shown, interspersed with text narration and voice over clips from Megatron, Bumblebee, Optimus Prime, and Prowl.

"The time has come to take back Cybertron." [In this time of war] "Ha ha ha ha ha ha." [Victory] [Depends on teamwork] "Bumblebee to Prime, Bumblebee to Prime!" "Nice teamwork Autobots!" [Choose your Autobot] "Autobots, attack!" [Combine your powers] "Your turn Bumblebee." "Outta my way!" [Race against the enemy] "Initiating pursuit." "Fastest thing on wheels comin' through!" "Whoohoo, yeah!" [Battle Megatron] "Decepticons will rise again." "It's still three against one Megatron!" [The fate of Earth and Cybertron] [Is in your hands] "Cybertron, here I come!" [Transformers Animated The Game] [Coming October 2008]

2009

Toys

This is not the only trace we have of this commercial.

• Jetstorm and Jetfire 30 sec

Animation: The logo screen from the cartoon intro.

Narration: Dynamic!

Toy segment: Jetfire and Jetstorm fly through a city diorama before transforming and combining.

Transformers Animated. The Autobot Elite Guards have arrived! Jetfire and Jetstorm. Twin brothers that go from jet to robot. But these heroes also have the power to combine, into the unstoppable Autobot, Safeguard. Double the strength, double the power! Keeping Earth safe from the Decepticons! Transformers. Actual change time will vary.

Cartoon

• TransWarped premiere [3]

Animation: Excerpts from TransWarped

Narration: Saturday Crush Zone

Saturday Crushzone brings you a world premiere movie event. Transformers Animated: Transwarped. "This should be fun." When a traitor among the Autobots threatens to bring down Cybertron... "We...can't let that happen, can we?" You'll get more than one episode can hold. "You'll have to get past me first!" More than you bargained for. "Be careful what you wish for." And more than meets the eye. "Transform and roll out!" Saturday Crushzone presents Transformers Animated: Transwarped. Next Saturday at eight on Cartoon Network.

War for Cybertron

2009

IT'S MECHAGODZILLA, AND HE'S GOT....glowing chest lights?

• Teaser Trailer [4]

A brief trailer showing a transmission from Cybertron before first contact with Earth. Optimus Prime speeds into battle, transforms in mid-air and charges with his fellow Autobots - slicing a Decepticon in half - and stopping as Omega Supreme launches his energy weapon.

• One Shall Stand Trailer [5]

Optimus Prime tells the story of the Transformers' war on Cybertron while a battle takes place between the opposing sides. He then comes to the rescue of a group of Autobots under attack by Skywarp. Prime laments the war while Megatron feels the war is necessary. Their discussion of the war continues as individuals on both sides continue to fight. Eventually, the two factions form unified fronts and charge towards each other. The trailer ends just as Prime and Megatron start to clash.

Notes: Narrated by Peter Cullen as Optimus Prime. The battle depicted in this trailer is the one shown in the transmission from the teaser trailer.

"One shall stand." "One shall fall."

The Axeman Cometh.

• Gameplay Reveal Trailer [6]

Optimus Prime tells us that Cybertron has never seen war until now and declares that the Autobots must stand as one against the Decepticon army.

Experience the beginning. Fight to the end.

• Multiplayer Character Trailer [7]

The ability to create a custom multiplayer character and battles featuring such characters are heavily featured amongst other multiplayer footage.

Become. The Ultimate. Weapon.

• Multiplayer Overview Trailer [8]

The game's various multiplayer modes are demonstrated as Optimus Prime names each one of them.

Wage war online. Become the ultimate weapon.

• E3 2010 Trailer [9]

Various game scenes are shown as Optimus Prime and Megatron argue over whether the Autobots should leave Cybertron or stay and fight.

Fight to the end. In the war. That started it all. Become the ultimate weapon.

So I walked in the room, held mah BOOMBOX high,
And what happened next will blow your mind!

• Gamestop Exclusive TV spot [10]

Shockwave arrives to the location of Megatron, Soundwave and Starscream prompting Megatron to take off and leave Shockwave in charge. Pleased by Megatron's decision, Shockwave takes this opportunity to order Soundwave to transform into boombox mode and play music for him to shoot Autobots by. His choice of song? "The Touch"! Starscream is not enthused by this and asks "Why this song?". Shockwave replies that when Starscream's hit percentage exceeds Shockwave's then he can choose the soundtrack.

Notes: Shockwave's Autobot blasting is in time to the song! Shockwave's voice is provided once again by Corey Burton.

2010 Transformers toyline

2010

It's time to duel!

• Power Core Combiners [11]

Narration: 2006-2007 Guy

Toy segment: Huffer and Smolder seem to fly by buildings in robot mode while side-by-side in their own camera shots. Then Skyburst flies to his drones before transforming, first to robot mode and then to combiner torso mode, in order to demonstrate Power Core Combination. Bombshock combines with his drones and other Power Core Combiners are shown in their combined forms.

Power Core technology lets a commander lead his Power Core drones OR combine forces with them to create a Bigger, BADder, BOT!

• Leader Starscream and Optimus Prime [12] (15 sec.) / [13] (21 sec, Chinese language) / [14] (31 sec.)

Narration: 2006-2007 Guy

Toy segment: Starscream is located and hunted down by Optimus Prime, Bumblebee and Sideswipe.

Notes: The toy segment is followed by a plug for the Hunt for the Decepticons online game.

• Battle Ops Bumblebee [15]

Animation: Bumblebee flipping his mask down and looking at the camera for the introduction, Bumblebee continuing to look at the camera for the end.

Narration: 2006-2007 Guy

Toy segment: A four-way split screen shows clips of Bumblebee in all four of his modes, with one mode per quadrant. The quadrants then pull to the exterior to reveal a full size clip of his Guardian vehicle mode, followed by his Battle vehicle mode as the narrator begins to describe the four modes. He continues as a pair of hands transforms Bumblebee to his two robots modes and demonstrates the electronics for both modes.

• Battle Ops Bumblebee [16] - An edited down version of the previous commercial.

• McDonald's Happy Meal [17]

Three kids, one has curly hair, one has long hair and one has short hair, sit at a kitchen table eating their McDonald's Transformers Happy Meals. The curly-haired kid gets up to leave and declares "Bumblebee is gonna guard my McNuggets. If you take anything, he'll blast you back to Cybertron!". His friends call his bluff and, much to their surprise, find themselves floating in space.

• Reveal the Shield [18]

Narration: Unknown.

Toy segment: Cyclonus, Lugnut and Rodimus strike dynamic poses in a poorly lit area resembling spaceship wreckage while the narrator provides the backstory. The spot ends with Rodimus, Solar Storm Grappel and Autobot Jazz stare down Cyclonus, Lugnut, ...and Turbo Tracks? This must be total war.

Notes: To be fair, Tracks being with the Decepticons does play into the whole unknown allegiance gimmick.

But whose side are they on?

Speed Stars

2010

• Stealth Force Optimus Prime [19]

Animation: Optimus Prime driving out from behind the Speed Stars logo.

Narration: Dynamic!

Toy segment: Optimus Prime patrols a city street in Stealth Mode before switching Battle Mode to take on Megatron. He is then joined as he speeds down the street by Bumblebee and Inferno.

• Bumblebee Track Set [20]

Narration: Dynamic!

Toy segment: A kid plays with Bumblebee, having him zoom along his track set on a mission with an undisclosed purpose.

Notes: A clip from Revenge of the Fallen of Optimus Prime decking Megatron is used to help highlight the set's smashable Megatron figure.