Protoform

Protoforms are part of a Transformer's life cycle in many Transformers continuities.

TeH Nekkid AiRrazzer!1!

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.

Japanese name: Sentou-in(Meaning "soldier" or "warrior".) (Beast Wars II)

Generation 1

Beast Wars

Protoforms are often contained within stasis pods and dropped into unexplored worlds.

Beast Wars II

Pretty spry for globs of pudding

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. (Given that the Autorollers were apparently extant veterans, this would be a case similar to that of Airazor, in which an already living Cybertronian had been downloaded into a new protoform body. )

Dreamwave comics continuity

Dreamwave first applied the existence of protoforms backwards into the Generation 1 era and established them as the first step in most (if not all) Transformer life.

Unicron Trilogy

Cybertron

Protoforms are established as the first stage of Transformer life, which is usually followed by Primary programming.

Transformers (2007) movie

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.

Animated

According to Bumblebee, Megatron eats them for breakfast. Transform and Roll Out!

Toys

• Protoform Optimus Prime (Deluxe Class, 2007)
  • Japanese ID number: MA-05
  • Accessories: Gun with flame attachment

File:Movie ProtoformOptimusPrime toy.jpg

Until I find my feet, I have to use these giant robot hands.

Based upon the 'Protoform' (Cybertronian) appearances of the Transformers in the Movie, Protoform Optimus Prime transforms into his 'entry' mode. This mode somewhat resembles a cybertronic truck, with false wheels sculpted onto the sides, and Optimus Prime's trademark windows in front. A flame decoration piece fits to the back of the 'vehicle', creating the illusion of a flaming comet's tail. The bottom of the vehicle has small wheels to roll the toy across smooth surfaces. Oddly, it has NO automorph gimmick at all, a feature most main-line figures have.

In robot mode he resembles previous Optimus characters - his angular chest windows are reminiscent of Cybertron Optimus Prime, while his near animalistic limbs and color scheme are evocative of Beast Wars Optimus Primal. He has excellent articulation due to his many ball joints, and is armed with a rifle. The flame attachment can fit onto the end of the (non-firing) gun barrel.

Some packaging variants of this figure (perhaps a Wal-Mart exclusive) included a free movie poster depicting a Cybertronian eye overlooking Earth. While an added sticker to the outer plastic bubble says "Exclusive movie poster!", it is more of a preview of upcoming figures.

• Protoform Starscream (Deluxe, 2007)

Japanese ID number: MD-05

Gold Plastic Syndrome just waiting to happen

• • Accessories: Gun with missile and flame attachment

Based upon the "Protoform" (Cybertronian) appearances of the Transformers in the movie, Protoform Starscream transforms into his "Entry" mode Cybertronic rocket thing. This mode somewhat resembles a Cybertronic spaceship, with a visible bridge between the two dorsal fins. A flame decoration piece fits to the back of the 'vehicle' over the missile projectile, creating the illusion of a flaming comet's tail. The bottom of the vehicle has small wheels to roll the toy across smooth surfaces.

In robot mode, Starscream marginally resembles previous Starscreams, mostly G1 Starscream, with the large turbines on his chest, wings and vents on his legs. Due to his extensive use of ball joints, he has excellent articulation. Starscream is armed with a spring-loaded missile launcher that fires the previously mentioned projectile cast in the same bronze color as his body. Alternatively, the flame decoration can be fitted onto the end of the barrel.

This toy also has an Automorphing feature, as most of the figures in the main line do. Pushing his head back during transformation will move his shoulder pieces back into place, while moving the shoulders forward will make the head pop back up. While either the missile or the flame can be placed into the gun, the flame can be placed onto the missile, using both at once. However, in some cases, the flame does not have a snug fit on the missile and falls off easily. This makes firing the missile rather awkward and makes the gun look extremely goofy.

It's also entirely possible that this figure will eventually suffer from GPS, as the bronze plastic it is cast in has the same characteristic swirling exhibited by older figures that rapidly deteriorated. However, newer materials and processes may prevent the toy from ever seeing a single crack form. It is highly suggested that this toy not be painted or altered in any way to maximize its lifespan.

• Protoform Starscream Fusion Cluster Edition (C3xHobby Convention exclusive Deluxe, Japan 2007)
  • Accessories: Gun with missile and flame attachment

An extensive redeco of the Protoform Optimus Prime mold that was exclusively available at the Japanese C3xHobby Convention in August of 2007, and later offered by e-Hobby in limited quantities. Most of the body is made out of transparent turquoise plastic in order to mimic the frozen state on the coldness of space, while orange paint is used on the front end of the 'entry' mode, mimicking the heat effects of sudden atmospheric entry. The flame attachment is made out of clear blue plastic, with the tail end being covered in gold' paint.

• Robot Heroes Protoform Autobot Jazz vs. Decepticon Brawl

• Trans Scanning Bumblebee

• Trans Scanning Optimus Prime

Trivia

• A traditional Cybertronian song features the lines "Protoform/ Protoform/ What will you be?"

• All the Autobot protoforms within the Transformers film are Protoform Optimus Prime. Not to say that ILM got lazy.

Footnotes

From Teletraan I: The Transformers Wiki, a Wikia wiki.