Prime (rank)
Prime is a rank of highest distinction in many Transformers continuities. Typically, it is used as the identification for the leader of the Autobots, something that is bestowed only on those that carry the Matrix within them. It is derived from Primus, the creator of the Transformers.
- Japanese equivalent: Convoy
Fiction
Marvel Comic continuity
The idea of Prime being a title/rank has its fullest expression here. A direct lineage of Creation Matrix bearers is established, each taking on a derivation of the name of their god Primus: Prima, Prime Nova, Sentinel Prime, Optimus Prime, and Rodimus Prime.
Of note is that the name Prime has no real necessary relation to Autobot leadership here. Optimus Prime becomes a Prime long before he becomes the overall Autobot Commander. Rather, Prime is a religious title (as the Creation Matrix is a religious artifact: a relic of their god). The closest human analogue to a Prime might be the Pope.
Cartoon continuity
The evidence for "Prime" being a rank here is weaker than elsewhere but the case can still be made. Though many Matrix-Bearers are seen, and all are by definition Autobot Leaders, only three are ever named; 2 Primes, 1 not: Alpha Trion, Optimus Prime, and Rodimus Prime. Without knowing any other names it is hard to make a concrete case here for "Prime" being a title given only to Matrix-Bearers.
Still, Optimus Prime named Rodimus, and it's hard to imagine him egotistically dubbing his successor with a derivation of his own name if "Prime" weren't traditional.
It's also noteworthy that the phrase, "Who died and made him prime?" was used by Maximal characters in Beast Wars, implying that, to them, "prime" was roughly equivalent to "leader". (Even though their leader was named "Primal".) Of course, they also used the word to mean "great" or "good" in the phrases "That's just prime," (said sarcastically), and "Feeling prime."
It is of note though that if it were, then "Prime" in this continuity would be a military/political title (since it is the Matrix of Leadership), rather than the religious title of the Marvel Comics.
(Note: Not all Convoys are Primes. If you can lead ant-droids to a picnic, you're a Convoy in Japan.)
Dreamwave continuity
This continuity also establishes Prime as leader of the Autobots, but there is some muddled information. The Prime carried within him the Matrix of Leadership, but it appears that the Matrix doesn't contain the wisdom of past leaders, as that was held on a separate datatrak. Also, the Prime did not appoint his successor. A new Prime was chosen by the Council of Ancients, supposedly through divine authority.
It's unknown what powers the Prime shared with the High Council and the Council of Ancients, but the Prime had several powers. In addition to being commander-in-chief of the Autobot Army, the Prime also had the authority to order a planet wide evacuation. Autobots gave oaths of loyalty to the Prime, and were expected to risk their lives for the Prime's safety (whether the Prime wanted them to or not). The War Within
IDW Comics continuity
Optimus Prime describes Primes as beings that define the eras they ruled. Thus, Nova Prime presided over an era in which the populace believed the Cybertronian race's destiny was in the stars, and commissioned the first Ark spacecraft. Although almost certainly a matrix-bearer, Nova Prime disappeared into the Benzuli Expanse while aboard the Ark. It is uncertain how the matrix was passed to Sentinel Prime though it is certainly possible he removed it while undertaking the dangerous mission.Spotlight: Optimus Prime
Before the Great War, Sentinel Prime serves as the head of the Autobot Security Services, the chief law enforcement and military body on Cybertron. However, he stresses that he is ultimately subservient to the will of the Senate who enact the laws he enforces.Megatron Origin, Part 3
After Cybertron is rendered uninhabitable, Optimus Prime is the apparent highest ranking Autobot, directing the galaxy-spanning conflict to deny the Decepticons conquest of additional planets. In this task, he occasionally seeks the guidance of the ancient Autobot and weapon of last resort Omega Supreme.
There appear to be at least four Primes predating Optimus Prime. Spotlight: Optimus Prime
Movie continuity
The title of Prime was bestowed upon the civilian and spiritual leader of Cybertron, but at the same time aided the Lord High Protector in stewarding the All Spark just as the Lord High Protector was co-ruler. Optimus Prime held this title before, during and after the war for the All Spark as leader of the Autobots.
