The Transformers Archive Skip to main content / Also skip section headers

[The Transformers Archive - an international fan site]
Please feel free to log in or register.

 
  • transformers forum
  • transformers fandom
  • transformers toys
  • transformers comics
  • transformers cartoon
  • transformers live-action movies

THE TRANSFORMERS: COMICS, BOOKS AND MANGA

Marvel Comics
(1984-1994)
Japanese
Manga
Other Books
and Titles
Titan Books
(2001-2010)
Club/Con
(2001-2016)
Dreamwave
(2002-2004)
Devil's Due
(2003-2007)
IDW Publishing
(2005-now)

CURRENT TRANSFORMERS COMICS FROM IDW PUBLISHING

Transformers: An Ongoing Series, #21-32

| #21 | #22 | #23 | #24 | #25 | #26 | #27 | #28 |#29 |#30 |#31 |The Death of Optimus Prime |

Transformers #21: Space Opera: Final Tableux

July 2011
Written By: Mike Costa
Art By: Guido Guidi (Orphans of the Helix), Brendan Cahill (Police Action)
Colours By: Joana Lafuente
Letters By: Shawn Lee
Edits By: Andy Schmidt & Carlos Guzman

Synopsis:
Orphans of the Helix
A bunch of Skywatch guards talk in front of Omega Supreme. Ratchet allows Bumblebee to walk, but he is still crippled and has to use a crutch. Likewise Peninngton is wheelchair-bound. Bluestreak charges in and informs Bumblebee that Hot Rod has arrived, back from the dead. All of the Autobots outside gather and watch as Hot Rod and his misfit crew, the Matrix chained on his neck. Bumblebee arrives, but Hot Rod asks to see Optimus. Ironhide still can’t remember anything about his stay on Earth. Despite Bumblebee being in command, Beachcomber and several others take Hot Rod to see Optimus Prime, since the Matrix has brought the Autobots hope. While Hot Rod could easily wrest command with claim on the Matrix, Hot Rod surrendered the Matrix to Optimus and told him what had happened. Optimus, seeing how mature Hot Rod has been, christened him ‘Rodimus’. While the Autobots met with those from Hot Rod’s crew (and Sunstreaker was apparently forgiven by the likes of Mirage and Cliffjumper), Optimus Prime emerged from inside Omega Supreme.

Optimus announced that Rodimus had found out that Cybertron was habitable again, but Galvatron had arrived there and is assembling and army. Refusing to allow their homeworld to be host to a lunatic’s army, Optimus proposes to use what energy Skywatch and Rodimus have to travel in Omega Supreme’s rocket to Cybertron, whilst getting both the Matrix and Megatron off Earth so the Decepticons would have no reason to stay. Every Autobot except for Bumblebee volunteers. Bumblebee confronts Optimus Prime about usurping his leadership, but Optimus tells Bumblebee that the final say belongs to him. Bumblebee is frustrated, since all the Autobots are already following Optimus nonetheless. Optimus then tells Bumblebee something, which caused him to become very angry. Bumblebee announced that he has to stay on Earth with Magnus and several others. Bumblebee later talks to the revived Ironhide, and both agree that things are screwed. Omega Supreme then takes off, with most of the Autobots on-board.

Featured Transformers: Omega Supreme, Bumblebee, Ratchet, Bluestreak*, Broadside, Ironhide, Wheelie, Hot Rod/Rodimus, Sunstreaker, Jazz, Tracks, Jetfire, Cliffjumper, Ultra Magnus, Wheeljack, Beachcomber, Optimus Prime, Drift, Blurr, Sideswipe, Hoist, Mirage, Gears, Trailbreaker, Hot Spot, Brawn, Prowl, Red Alert, Bob
Notable Others: Pennington, Garnak, Spike Witwicky

Police Action: Prologue
Before Optimus Prime’s group leaves, Prowl, under Optimus’ permission, enters Megatron’s holding room. Prowl tries to tell Megatron to talk by posing as his friend, but drops the act quickly and tells Megatron that he will talk, since Megatron has damaging information that could upend Prowl’s entire mission. Apparently, Megatron tells Prowl what he needs to know. Prowl meets Optimus Prime and Bumblebee, and Prowl notes that Bumblebee could become a great leader since he can handle Optimus’ revelation. Prowl then reflects on how he would never want to become a leader, but rather is more interested in pursuing facts. Thundercracker leaves the Autobot base, and warns Prowl not to provoke him. Bumblebee confronts Prowl and tells him that he wants to be informed of everything Prowl finds. Prowl agrees, noting that Bumblebee won’t get in his way if he gives him some information now and then. Spike then tells Prowl to keep him involved as well… and as Prowl enters the base, he muses how involved Spike really is as he began to look at screens filled with information about Spike Witwicky.

Featured Transformers: Prowl, Optimus Prime, Megatron, Bumblebee, Thundercracker, Omega Supreme
Notable Others: Spike Witwicky

Reviews & Commentary: Reviewed by Blackjack

Transformers #22: Chaos Theory, Part 1

July 2011
Written By: James Roberts
Art By: Alex Milne
Colours By: Joana Lafuente
Letters By: Shawn Lee
Edits By: Andy Schmidt & Carlos Guzman

Synopsis: Cybertron, before the war: two Cybertronians, Impactor and Megatron, sit in Maccadam’s New Oil House, discussing Megatron’s latest literary work, a treatise speaking against Nominus Prime and the lack of progress in Cybertron. Impactor suggests that the only way to cure Cybertron is by force, but Megatron disagrees, saying it’s all about ideals. Impactor and Megatron continue to discuss about the merits of violence, when a hapless mech called Rung is thrown towards their table by a bunch of military cadets. Impactor decides to take matters to his own hands, and gets ready to fight the cadets.

The present day: In Omega Supreme, Perceptor and Ratchet examine the VVH-bound Megatron, searching for hidden weaponry. Ratchet is very unnerved, and asks why they can’t just dissect Megatron. Perceptor tells Ratchet that they can’t do that due to laws against torture, and after a brief discussion about Megatron’s powers, gives the thumbs-up. The Autobots have apparently rendezvoused with Xaaron prior to this to ask for his legal advice on having Megatron captive. After Xaaron leaves, Optimus Prime and Ironhide discuss Megatron’s strange surrender, and Optimus thinks that Megatron may actually subconsciously want all the war to be over. Ironhide tells Optimus that he needs to speak to Megatron…

The past: Megatron finds himself imprisoned in an Autobot facility, questioned by a guard named Springarm. Several questions are apparently rather outdated and racist. Impactor had apparently crippled the cadets, much to Megatron’s surprise. Whirl enters the room, taking over the interrogation…

The present: Optimus enteres Megatron’s cell, and orders Omega Supreme to shut off the viewscreen to the other Autobots. The two leaders face each other, and Optimus releases Megatron from his bindings to be able to speak one-on-one. The two of them take seats in the room, and Optimus Prime demands Megatron tell him why he really surrendered. Megatron, however, is evasive, first asking about the state of his Decepticons on Earth, before the conversation goes off to another direction. Megatron tells Optimus that throughout the years, the only constant has been hate and Optimus himself. Megatron tells Optimus that while he hates everything Optimus represents, he asks the Autobot if he truly hates him. Optimus can’t get a straight answer, because hate is too simple a word, and to hate would be lower himself. Megatron then mocks the infallible Optimus Prime, telling Optimus that he knows his rival better than anyone. The two then discuss the war, how it had caused their race to be shunned by all other races, and Optimus Prime asks Megatron what what Decepticon victory will be like. Megatron’s vision is one of technoism, where Cybertronians rule over other races, and they will repopulate the race, rebirthing it in the powerful grip of tyranny where everyone can live in peace, free of the hated castes of the past. Optimus tells Megatron that the Autobots also want peace, but never at the sacrifice of freedom. Optimus and Megatron then reminisce about their past meeting, remembering a meeting before the ‘Nominus Prime business’ before going through several anecdotes of their respective clashes, noting how hard it was for one to kill the other, despite the attempts. After a quick ‘heh’ from both sides, Optimus offers a chance for Megatron to let it all end with a simple handshake, but Megatron refuses. Optimus reminds Megatron that every Autobot wants to see him dead.

Later on, Optimus, Rodimus, Xaaron, as well as Bumblebee, Prowl and Ultra Magnus (via hologram projection) meet to discuss Megatron’s fate. Prowl, Xaaron and Magnus agree to use Chief Justice Tyrest as a neutral party to be the judge over the trial. However, there is still the matter of punishment, execution or imprisonment. Prowl and Magnus quickly vote for execution, while Bumblebee says that it will give the Decepticons a martyr, as well as being untrue to the Autobot code. Optimus Prime shuts the voting down and tells them that it is his decision to make. Rodimus reveals that the audio feed to the conversation has not been cut, and asks Optimus that with his seeming friendliness to Megatron if he could make the right decision. Optimus is so enraged that he orders everyone to get out.

The past: Whirl beats up the imprisoned Megatron in his cell, obviously enjoying the attack. He taunts Megatron, saying that his death would be easily passed for a breakout attempt, and tells Megatron that his death won’t mean anything. Throughout the ordeal Megatron remains silent. Springarm, under orders to set Megatron free, stops Whirl from beating Megatron up too badly. Apparently the captain had investigated and found out that Megatron did not join the fight. The captain in question is a younger Optimus, and, having read the miner’s work, praises Megatron for expressing his concerns before allowing him to go free.

The present: Optimus comes to Megatron (bound again), telling him to tell him why he surrendered. Megatron keeps asking Optimus to rephrase his questions, until Optimus asks him if he feels any remorse for the deaths he had caused, to which Megatron says ‘no’. Optimus threatens to kill Megatron, but the Decepticon knows that if it was an option it would’ve already been done. Megatron then mocks Optimus, saying that without the war, Optimus would just be another nobody instead of the hero he is. Optimus tells Megatron that goading to get a reaction would get one. Optimus activates the VVH, electrocuting Megatron. As Optimus Prime leaves, Megatron thanks Optimus for that time in Rodion… Omega Supreme reveals to Optimus that he cut the VVH’s power, otherwise Megatron would’ve been killed. Ironhide asks Optimus if he knew why Megatron surrendered, and Optimus said that he had given Megatron the reason…

The past: As he goes out of the Rodion police, Megatron tells Springarm that the ‘-tron’ part of his name is not based on electronic as what the Autobots had said, but rather based on neutron, as in the bomb. Springarm gives Megatron back the literary works, but Megatron tosses it onto a nearby screen, where the resulting damage becomes a purple face, as Megatron walks away…

Featured Transformers: Megatron, Impactor, Rung, Omega Supreme, Perceptor, Ratchet, Ironhide, Xaaron, Optimus Prime, Jazz, Brawn, Cosmos, Windcharger, Trailbreaker, Springarm, Whirl, Drift, Rodimus, Wheeljack, Huffer, Jetfire, Sunstreaker, Sideswipe, Hound, Gears, Thunderwing (flashback), Arcee (flashback), Metroplex (flashback), Dai Atlas (flashback), Ironfist (flashback), Overlord (flashback), Scorponok (flashback), Shockwave (flashback), Grimlock (flashback), Swoop (flashback), Kup (flashback), Alpha Trion (flashback), Devastator (flashback), Thundercracker (flashback), Galvatron (flashback), Nemesis Prime (flashback), Starscream (flashback), Skywarp (flashback), Seaspray (flashback), Tracks (flashback), Prowl, Bumblebee, Ultra Magnus
Notable Others: Verity Carlo (flashback)

Reviews & Commentary: Reviewed by Blackjack

Transformers #23: Chaos Theory, Part 2

August 2011
Written By: James Roberts
Art By: Alex Milne
Colours By: Joana Lafuente
Letters By: Shawn Lee
Edits By: Carlos Guzman

Synopsis: The past: Before the war, Orion Pax watches a news report detailing a terrorist attack. Nominus Prime’s fate is unknown, and the Matrix Flame flickering indicates that he is in critical condition. An electrical storm cuts off the news feed, just as three heavily-armoured thugs enter Orion Pax’s office. Orion asks why they are here, and they tell him that they are looking for Whirl. Orion states that Whirl is in custody, awaiting trial for savagely beating up a prisoner (Megatron). The lead thug tries to imply that Whirl had learnt his lesson and should be set free, but Orion flat-out refuses. The thug tells Orion that Whirl has friends in high places and that putting him on trial would lead to embarrassment to some high-level Cybertronians. Orion shows the thugs the door, and they say it’s unfortunate Orion lives up to his reputation.

The present: Optimus Prime is brooding when Ratchet arrives to talk to him about Megatron’s fate. Optimus tells Ratchet that whatever he does, executing or imprisoning Megatron, there are ways that it would seem like he’s acting rashly. Ratchet asks Optimus why he doesn’t consult the Matrix, and Optimus confides that he is afraid that he’s been too reliant on the Matrix as a moral compass. He also reveals to Ratchet that when he first bonded with the Matrix it hurt. He then asks Ratchet a favour…

The past: Optimus’ soldiers Springarm and Wheelarch are on patrol, discussing how the Dead End has been quiet since Orion Pax has been appointed police captain of the region. When they return to base they find out that Orion Pax had arrested all the criminals. Later on, Orion and Springarm talk a bit about Orion’s sudden resolve. Orion confides that his encounter with Megatron, and his work about a corrupt Senate, had been… bothering him. Springarm mentions that if he’s feeling troubled he tries to channel the power of the Matrix, but Orion tells him that he doesn’t believe in religion or the Matrix or the Knights of Cybertron.

The present: Optimus Prime summons Rodimus. Rodimus apologizes for what he’s said before. Optimus asks Rodimus what it felt like when he bonded with the Matrix. Rodimus tells him that it feels wonderful. Optimus finds it troubling but does not reveal it to Rodimus.

The past: Orion Pax returns to his police headquarters to find Springarm and Wheelarch beheaded, their heads mounted on Orion’s trophy case. He finds that the thugs have freed Whirl, who protests that it wasn’t his idea. Orion has had enough, but one of the thugs opens fire on his back. Orion shoots Whirl’s leg, but his rifle is destroyed by one of the thugs. Orion manages to run into his office, but finds that the rifle on display in his office has no ammo. He finds himself cornered in a room with Springarm’s headless body. Buying himself some time by throwing his numerous medals at the thugs, Orion then manages to transform Springarm’s corpse (with great regret) knocking down two of the thugs while reading them their rights. The final thug tries to jump Orion but he rips off one of his smokestacks as a melee weapon. Trying to crawl away, Whirl is stopped by Orion. Whirl states that this wasn’t his idea and warns Orion to let the matter rest, stating that if they expose what the Senate did they will destroy Orion’s life.

At the Grand Imperium, there is a debate on how to handle the terrorist attack on Nominus Prime’s life. Senator Proteus gives a speech where the Senate needs to institute a clampdown to limit the freedom of Cybertronians for a while, and Senator Ratbat agrees, telling them that they need to shut down any other corporations that had been hostile to the Senate in the past. Head of security Sentinel is informed by an aide that someone wishes to address the Senate. This individual somehow manages to fight through the security forces Sentinel scrambled. This individual is, of course, Orion Pax, holding Whirl. Sentinel holds fire, wanting to see what is going on. Orion drops Whirl onto the floor, telling them of what had happened. Orion then condemns the Senate for lording over Cybertron, detached from the masses while they try to control the populace. He quotes Megatron’s words, condemning the limitations of freedom that the Senate places on them. Orion tells the Senate that many other races call Cybertronians as ‘Autobots’ as in ‘automaton’, as in routine and monotonous. Orion instead tells them that they should be ‘autonomous’, free thinking. Orion declares himself an Autobot, autonomous to choose his own free way. As the security forces drag Orion away, he shouts three questions that Megatron had posed in his writing: In whose interests do you exercise power? To whom are you accountable? How can we get rid of you?

The present: Optimus Prime confronts Megatron, telling him that even if Megatron had resorted to bloodshed to achieve his goals, Optimus still believes in freedom and choice. He lets Megatron choose his punishment, since freedom is the right of all sentient beings. Megatron chooses death. Optimus exits Megatron’s cell, and Ratchet arrives, holding the Matrix and revealing that it had restored Sunstreaker’s ability to walk. Optimus thanks Ratchet for keeping the Matrix for him while he confronts Megatron, needing to see if he’s still the same Optimus as before and takes the Matrix back.

The past: In the Ark-1 memorial, Orion Pax meets with an unknown Senator who had pulled strings to have him released from prison. Orion asks why the Senator had done so, and he reveals that he thinks Orion is right. The corruption in the Senate is deeper than Orion had seen, noting that a faction within the Senate may have been responsible for the attack on Nominus Prime, in order to find out how the Matrix creates life, and to control it. The Senator tells Orion that a war might be coming, and sides are being chosen. The Senator tells Orion to go back into being a cop. He responds that the Senator’s men had changed him physically. The Senator tells Orion to reflect on what’s happened to find his role in all this. Orion, reflecting in his ruined office, finds that there is room in his chest to carry the Matrix of Leadership…

Featured Transformers: Blaster, Ratchet, Optimus Prime/Orion Pax, Nominus Prime (image only), Senate Thugs, Omega Supreme, Springarm (killed), Wheelarch (killed), Rodimus, Whirl, Sentinel Prime’s aide, Sentinel, Senator Proteus, Ratbat, Senator Decimus, Megatron, Optimus’ Senator Friend.

Reviews & Commentary: Reviewed by Blackjack

Transformers #24: Chaos Part One: Lamentations

August 2011
Story By: James Roberts & Mike Costa
Script By: Mike Costa
Art By: Livio Ramondelli
Letters By: Chris Mowry
Edits By: Carlos Guzman

Synopsis: At the Kimia Facility, Grotusque and Cloudburst are doing a routine security inspection on the station, reflecting on the sad condition of the Autobots in general. The security head Downshit isn’t happy about the matter and trades harsh words with the two, but the wall behind him explodes. Cyclonus and the Sweeps fly in. Despite Grotusque and Cloudburst’s efforts, the Sweeps tear their way into all parts of the facility, taking out all the Autobots with their strength of numbers. Cyclonus reports this to Galvatron, on Cybertron. Onboard Omega Supreme, Megatron demands Optimus Prime tell him what is happening on Cybertron, citing that both of them know Cybertron is more than just a metal planet, and warns what would happen if it falls in the wrong hands. After some retorts, Optimus ignores the angry Megatron. Outside the cell Ironhide tells Optimus that he’s still letting Megatron get to him, and Optimus confides that he doesn’t understand Megatron’s recent behaviour. Ironhide just says Megatron is a lunatic who wants to get to Prime. Optimus later asks Jetfire if they managed to contact Tyrest, but Jetfire explains that Autobot communication protocols have been scrambled ever since the Decepticon push years ago. Nearby Ironhide is telling to a few other Autobots about the time he punched Alpha Trion. Sunstreaker, listening nearby, attempts to join in but is ignored by the others. Sunstreaker just sits glumly with Bob. Garnak and Rodimus contact Optimus and Jetfire, telling them that they’re getting a message from the surface… but not on the radio.

The Autobots watch as on the surface of Cybertron, Galvatron’s army is firing their weapons on and off, sending a message in binary code, telling them to send a landing party down to talk. Optimus notes it’s also a display of force to show off how many troops he had. The Autobots land on Cybertron. Optimus leads Rodimus, Drift, Sunstreaker and Ironhide to meet with Galvatron, while Cliffjumper is left in charge of landing parties. Omega Supreme is left in orbit as it’s their only way back home. Ironhide is a little surprised that Cybertron isn’t their ‘home’. Galvatron welcomes Optimus Prime, and states that Cybertron is merely a staging ground for his army and asks the Autobots to join him against a threat that could destroy them all. After a little argument, Galvatron makes an ultimatum: either be his underlings, or be his enemies. Optimus declines peaceably, and soon a full out battle ensues. Galvatron is about to kill Rodimus but Ironhide gets the drop of him, demanding explanations. However, Cyclonus flies in, strafing Ironhide, allowing Galvatron to hitch a ride and get away. With Kimia in orbit over Cybertron, Galvatron orders the station’s conversion into alternate mode. The Sweeps on-board Kimia transform the space station… on Cybertron, Sunstreaker says that he doesn’t trust Galvatron, earning a barb from Cliffjumper. Optimus wonders what Galvatron’s plan for Cybertron is. Drift notes that Galvatron wouldn’t mass an army to fight Autobots but ask them to join. However, Kimia, in weapon mode, opens fire on Cybertron…

Featured Transformers: Grotusque (killed), Cloudburst (killed), Downshift (killed), Sweeps, one of whom may be Scourge, Cyclonus, Pointblank*, Chromedome*, Fastlane*, Brainstorm*, Swerve*, Crosshairs*, Afterburner*, Galvatron, Omega Supreme, Megatron, Optimus Prime, Ironhide, Jetfire, Bluestreak, Drift, Cliffjumper, Sunstreaker, Bob, Rodimus, Trailbreaker, Blurr, a bunch of other Autobots in the background. *may or may not be killed by Sweeps
Notable Others: Garnak

Reviews & Commentary: Reviewed by Blackjack

Transformers #25: Police Action: Part 1

August 2011
Written By: Mike Costa
Art By: Brendan Cahill
Colours By: Joana Lafuente
Letters By: Shawn Lee
Edits By: Carlos Guzman

Synopsis: Prowl and the other Autobots recruit a somewhat unwilling Pennington for their investigation work, telling him that it's the closest to active duty he can get with his condition. Ben Simpson, meanwhile, continues to spread anti-Transformer sentiments in TV shows, telling people that he does not trust the fact that the Transformers had truly left Earth in Omega Supreme. Hot Spot and Pennington suggests getting PR by creating accidents and having Autobots to help up, but they shut up after a look from Streetwise. Spike Witwicky comes to Prowl, asking him to do something about Ben Simpson. Prowl, however, says that it's a free country. Spike asks Prowl if he's running an investigation about Ben Simpson, to which Prowl brushes off as their investigation being Cybertronian-related, and that he wouldn't step on Skywatch's toes. Spike tells Prowl that he's going to be away for 36 hours, citing explainations about Megatron. In another room, as they watch Prowl talk with spike, Jazz tells Bumblebee that instead of investigating their allies they should be focusing on hunting down the Decepticons still on Earth. Bumblebee tells them that with most of the Decepticons injured and Megatron gone, they aren't their first priority. Jazz, being a resource that isn't being used, offers to hunt them down, but Bumblebee, while understanding what Jazz had done and stopping any investigation for him, tells him that he cannot be out in the field. Bumblebee cuts Jazz off, and the unhappy Jazz storms off. When Prowl asks, Bumblebee brushes off Jazz's attitude as a result of imersing himself in their culture. Prowl then tells Bumblebee that he's about to trail Spike.

Prowl trails Spike, but spots nothing out of the ordinary. Spike visits a senator, some generals, and three different women. However, Breakdown suddenly shows up and tries to run down Spike. Prowl zooms into action and pursues Breakdown, and after a street fight, Prowl manages to outsmart the Stunticon by leading him to his relief, Streetwise. However, Streetwise transforms into robot mode and attacks Breakdown. Due to this, Prowl and Streetwise call off the chase in case Spike finds out he's being trailed, and Breakdown escapes. Once at base, Ultra Magnus scolds both Prowl and Streetwise, telling them how stupid breaking cover was. Prowl suggests neutralizing Ben Simpson, but Magnus tells him to focus on Spike. Prowl then continues, telling Magnus that Breakdown might be part of something bigger instead of just a simple vendetta. Magnus asks Prowl if he thinks he could tie together Spike, Simpson and a Decepticon conspiracy, to which Prowl says yes, but Magnus finally tells Prowl to stick on Spike for the moment. Prowl travels to the place where Scrapper was killed a year ago, where a building has been built to cover tracks. However, Prowl finds Cybertronian composites in the cement, which does not make sense since Scrapper was killed with his own rifle, a rifle that shouldn't been able to melt anything. As Prowl takes a sample, he finds that he's hit by an explosive shell... and more hit the building as it comes tumbling down on Prowl.

Featured Transformers: Prowl, Bumblebee, Ultra Magnus, Streetwise, Omega Supreme (screen), Hot Spot, Inferno, Jazz, Breakdown
Notable Others: Pennington, Ben Simpson, Spike Witwicky

Reviews & Commentary: Reviewed by Blackjack

Transformers #26: Chaos, Part Two: Numbers

September 2011
Written By: Mike Costa & James Roberts
Art By: livio Ramondelli
Letters By: Neil Uyetake
Edits By: Carlos Guzman

Synopsis: The Autobots are about to take cover from the weapon-mode Kimia, but realize that it's not targeting them. Optimus Prime orders Silverbolt and all flight-capable Autobots into the air to take down Kimia. Sunstreaker and Drift are dispatched to set up a base of operations in the city, Wheelie and a reluctant Cliffjumper are sent to scout ahead. Ironhide is ordered to empty the troops inside Omega's rocket mode. Rodimus volunteers to go into space inside Omega Supreme, in order to establish a command post in the orbital battle. Rodimus takes Trailbreaker with him. In orbit, a full-scale battle between the flying Autobots and the Sweeps occur, and Rodimus takes over the duty of watching Galvatron's movements so Silverbolt can focus on the battle. On the planet, Cliffjumper and Wheelie find themselves in an abandoned building. Cliffjumper questions Wheelie's scouting methods, but soon grows to respect the rhyming Autobot. Much to Cliffjumper's horror, however, Wheelie snipes a Sweep, alerting Galvatron to their presence. Cliffjumper calls for backup, and Optimus Prime moves out with all the ground troops, and began to battle the Sweeps. Aboard Kimia, Afterburner and Lightspeed find themselves near a power generator of the particle cannon, without much in way of weaponry other than some unstable explosives. They realize that the cannon is opening fire. Trailbreaker's efforts to block the beam with his forcefield fails and a massive hole is torn on the surface of Cybertron.

Silverbolt and Rodimus advocate to destroy Kimia, but Optimus tells them that there may still be Autobots on board Kimia. Both Rodimus and Lightspeed decide to take matters into their own hands. Rodimus steers Omega Supreme to crash into Kimia, while Lightspeed sets up explosives inside. Lightspeed tells Afterburner that they are scientists and must work for the greater good, and blows up the generators, destroying Kimia. Omega Supreme flies through the explosion safely. An enraged Galvatron heads off with Jhiaxus in tow. Rodimus brings in the damaged Omega Supreme into a rendezvous with Sunstreaker. The rest of the troops are still fighting, but Optimus Prime and Ironhide had apparently gone off after Galvatron to the blast crater. Rodimus takes Drift to go after Prime, while Sunstreaker enters Omega to help Garnak treat Trailbreaker. Optimus Prime tells Ironhide that he can feel through the Matrix that there is something happening within Galvatron.

Still a prisoner within Omega Supreme, Megatron demands to know what is going on outside. Megatron then tells Omega that he'll find out himself. While Garnak and Sunstreaker repair Trailbreaker, the Megatron guns transform into spider-like drones and march to Megatron's holding cell where they begin to free Megatron and latch onto him. In the battlefield, Cliffjumper and Wheelie are unable to call for help, but suddenly Megatron, clad in a new suit of armour, blasts through a group of Sweeps, vowing that Cybertron belongs to him.

Featured Transformers: Silverbolt, Sunstreaker, Ironhide, Cliffjumper, Optimus Prime, Trailbreaker, Drift, Rodimus, Generic Autobot Jets, Sandstorm, Cosmos, Slingshot, Powerglide, Tracks, Jetfire, Wheelie, Omega Supreme, Sweeps, Skydive, Fireflight, Air Raid, Galvatron, Sideswipe, Red Alert, Brawn, Mirage, Hoist, Blurr, Generic Autobot Cars, Gears, Windcharger, Ratchet, Huffer, Skids, Afterburner (killed), Lightspeed (killed), Hound, Jhiaxus, Megatron
Notable Others: Garnak

Reviews & Commentary: Reviewed by Blackjack

Transformers #27: Police Action, Part 2: Only Forward

October 2011
Written By: Mike Costa
Art By: Brendan Cahill
Colours By: Joana Lafuente
Letters By: Shawn Lee
Edited By: Carlos Guzman

Synopsis: As the building collapses down, Prowl founds himself rescued by Streetwise, who drives in and pushes Prowl out of the way. Prowl identifies the artillery shots as coming from Brawl, and Streetwise drives off to confront him. Prowl surveys the situation and realizes another Transformer is assisting Brawl, but is unable to identify him because of all the cloaking technology around him. While Streetwise drives circles around Brawl, Prowl takes aim and shoots a shell right into Brawl's turret. As Brawl attempts to Transform, Streetwise slaps an inhibitor on the Combaticon, trapping him in mid-transformation. Some time later, Pennington arrives in front of Sandra's hideout. Sandra had dropped off the grid, and Pennington attempts to get her to come back, but Sandra refuses, citing that she hasn't done anything wrong and advises Pennington to leave Spike before it's too late. Back in the base, Prowl and Streetwise interrogate the still incapacitated Brawl. Brawl tries his best to play dumb and lie to the Autobots, but they don't buy the fact that Brawl's acting alone. However, before Brawl can reveal anything, he suddenly frizzles out and is sent into stasis lock.

They consult with Wheeljack via hologram, and Wheeljack says that Brawl was booby-trapped to fall into stasis lock should he be interrogated, and the suppressor has merged with Brawl's mind, essentially putting him on an indefinite stasis lock. Sandra leaves for work, and police vehicles, supposedly sent by Ben Simpson, pick her up as escort after the Skywatch harassment. These police vehicles turn out to be Streetwise and Groove. At the base, Sandra meets Pennington. Pennington tells Sandra that she might have done the right thing, following the order of the President and everything, but Pennington says he can't ever forgive her disloyalty to the Skywatch soldiers, and exits the room in disgust. Ultra Magnus and Bumblebee take over the conversation from then, and Magnus tells Sandra that they didn't hold Sandra for her betrayal (she's done the right thing) and instead brings her in to talk about Spike instead. Elsewhere Prowl analyses the piece of asphalt he took from the place of Scrapper's death, and concludes that he was killed with something that no Cybertronian would create, giving Prowl some more evidence on Spike. Sandra opens up on Spike, explaining that Spike acts like the lead in an action movie, and that he's reckless, dangerous, protected by the higher-ups and has a gigantic ego. Sandra warns the Autobots not to underestimate him. However, Spike sees what's happening through some cameras, and goes straight to Prowl, admitting that he's killed Scrapper.

Featured Transformers: Prowl, Streetwise, Brawl's Mysterious Partner, Brawl, Groove, Ultra Magnus, Bumblebee
Notable Others: Sandra, Pennington, Spike Witwicky

Reviews & Commentary: Reviewed by Blackjack

Transformers #28: Chaos, Part Three: Kings

October 2011
Written By: Mike Costa
Story By:Mike Costa & James Roberts
Art By:Livio Ramondelli
Letters By: Shawn Lee
Edits By: John Barber & Carlos Guzman

Synopsis: An escape pod from Kimia is drifting in space, running out of fuel while attempting to reach Cybertron. Brainstorm and Chromedome discuss their plight. Many other survivors are crammed on the pod's rear section. Arcee contacts them, preparing to rescue them with their craft. On Cybertron, Cliffjumper and Wheelie tell the other Autobots to fall back, as they witness the upgraded Megatron tearing his way through the Sweeps. Sideswipe suggests letting Megatron tire himself out killing all the Sweeps, but Ravage attacks him, followed by the rest of the Decepticon forces. The Autobots still outnumber the Decepticons, but the Constructicons arrive and combine into Devastator, albeit with a dead Scrapper for a leg. The Autobots take this as an advantage to retreat to the damaged Omega Supreme's position. They theorize that they followed Megatron's position via a space bridge tracker. Knowing that they couldn't use Omega Supreme as a fortress anymore, Sunstreaker gets a plan. Soon Sunstreaker appears in the battlefield on his hover-chair, and after Bob takes out a pursuing Ravage, Sunstreaker stops in front of Devastator. Sunstreaker taunts Devastator, telling him that both of them were responsible for lots of deaths, and are both crippled. Devastator attempts to step on him, but Sunstreaker transforms and drives off, and the explosives that were attached under the hoverchair explodes, taking out Devastator. As Devastator tries to stand up, he suddenly speaks in binary (00010101).

Near the crater where Kimia fired on the planet, Optimus Prime, Rodimus, Ironhide and Drift prepare to enter. Optimus tells them that Galvatron needs access to the planet's core for his 'endgame'. They catch up with Galvatron and Jhiaxus, and Optimus attempts a talk-down. However, the mad Galvatron shouts that it's 'almost here', and on the surface all the Decepticons, as well as Galvatron's Sweep army, become entranced, speaking in binary and gather together where they coalescence into a gigantic towering monster. This 'Deceptigod' smashes Omega Supreme easily, knocking the Autobots away as well. Galvatron tells Optimus that if they don't destroy the core with the Heart of Darkness, the universe will be destroyed. Drift gets possessed and attacks Ironhide, giving Galvatron and Jhiaxus the opportunity to escape and 'save the universe'. Drift manages to regain control of himself and impales himself on his own sword. A damaged Cliffjumper gets on the comm to inform Optimus Prime. Megatron grabs hold of Cliffjumper's comm and demands Optimus to get up and fight the Deceptigod. However, Optimus insists that he must pursue Galvatron, and the fight is left to Megatron alone.

Featured Transformers: Brainstorm, Chromedome, Sureshot, Rung, Swerve, Mainframe, Rewind, Slamdance, Sprocket, Crosshairs, Arcee, Wheelie, Cliffjumper, Sideswipe, Sweeps, Megatron, Blurr, Ratchet, Hound, Ravage, Shrapnel, Bombshell, Kickback, Scavenger, Bonecrusher, Soundwave, Blitzwing, Starscream, Skywarp, Astrotrain, Rumble/Frenzy (?), Shockwave, Mirage, Triggerhappy (maybe), Misfire, Mixmaster, Scrapper's Body, Long Haul, Hook, Bonecrusher, Devastator, Huffer, Red Alert, Omega Supreme, Sunstreaker, Rodimus, Optimus Prime, Drift, Ironhide, Brawn, Bob, Galvatron, Jhiaxus
Notable Others: Garnak, 'Deceptigod'

Reviews & Commentary: Reviewed by Blackjack

Transformers #29: Police Action Part 3: A Second Chance At Eden

November 2011
Written By: Mike Costa
Art By: Brendan Cahill
Inks By: Brian Shearer
Colours By: Joana Lafuente
Letters By: Neil Uyetake
Edits By: Carlos Guzman

Synopsis: Prowl interrogates Spike Witwicky for his admission of executing Scrapper. Prowl digs out the death of one of Spike's friends, citing it as motive for killing Scrapper, and points out that Spike has betrayed their trust and had broken the terms of collaboration. Spike counters that Prowl of all people should be the last person to moralize him, and then tells Prowl that revealing his crime would completely destroy the already shaky Cybertronian-human alliance. Spike then tells Prowl that he never trusted any of the Autobots. Prowl leaves Spike for a while, musing that while he and Spike had a lot of similarities, he could not bring himself to respect Spike. Bumblebee gathers the other Autobots that they are moving in on Ben Simpson. Ultra Magnus agrees with this, because they need to take action without being tied up by human bureaucracy. However, Magnus forbids Jazz from joining the mission due to his past.

Prowl, Streetwise, Magnus and a group of Skywatch agents arrive at Ben Simpson's home. The Skywatch agents barge into Sipmson's house, and find Simpson being controlled by one of the Megatron guns, and are forced to open fire on him, revealing that he's a facsimile. Simultaneously, the Autobots detect a massive amount of radio waves, and track them to Swindle, who is hiding nearby. Magnus knocks Swindle down and shoots off his arm, arresting him and bringing him back to Omega Supreme's base mode. The five Autobots interrogate Swindle, who tells them that North Korea was his doing to obtain Energon, and installed suppressors to shut down Brawl. Magnus deduces that Swindle uses Ben Simpson to facilitate the distribution of the Megatron guns... but a smug Swindle reveals that he has been playing a far bigger game... that he had been dealing with Spike Witwicky, from the very start. Omega Supreme, in pain and unaware that Spike is being monitored, informs them that Spike had left the base, as well as Pennington and Jazz.

Jazz and Pennington head to Skywatch's old New Mexico base. Jazz uses Pennington's presence to gain access into the compound, then distracts Pennington by telling him to check the armoury. Then Jazz, alone, makes contact with General Allenby and explains that Spike is now a fugitive, that he had been dealing weapons with Swindle, and dissolves the Autobot's alliance with the government. Jazz had also broadcasted this exchange to the media, and blows up the New Mexico base, wiping any Cybertronian weapon data in the Skywatch servers with an EMP. Jazz apologizes to Pennington for tricking him, then burns the base to the ground. Prowl is left to mull over the recent events, that they had overstayed their welcome long ago, and that all his time on Earth had left Prowl with doubts, even though he had the answers.

Featured Transformers: Prowl, Scrapper (screen), Streetwise, Ultra Magnus, Jazz, Bumblebee, Swindle, Omega Supreme, Brawl
Notable Others: Spike Witwicky, Ben Simpson (killed), Campologno, Henderson, Skywatch Agents, Pennington, General Allenby

Reviews & Commentary: Reviewed by Blackjack

Transformers #30: Chaos Part Four: Genesis

November 2011
Story By: Mike Costa & James Roberts
Written By: Mike Costa
Art By: Livio Ramondelli
Letters By: Shawn Lee
Edits By: John Barber & Carlos Guzman

Synopsis: Above Cybertron, Arcee and Hardhead recap the entire D-Void/Galvatron situation to the Kimia refugees, although the Autobot scientists don't really get the whole thing. Hardhead tells them that when Galvatron hacked his mind, he was able to access Galvatron's mind. Swerve tries to summarize matters, and Hardhead throws in one last clinch... that the Heart of Darkness and the D-Void are really one and the same, so Galvatron is unknowingly helping D-Void because he's fooled by the Heart that by destroying Cybertron he'd be stopping D-Void from expanding. Brainstorm,
Chromedome and Swerve crack some jokes, and Swerve optimistically says that they're going to save the universe. On the surface of Cybertron, Bluestreak and the other Autobots hides behind some rubble as Megatron single-handedly takes on the massive avatar comprised of the bodies of the Sweeps and the Decepticons. Wheelie stares around blankly for a while.

Deep under the surface, Ironhide tells the two Primes that they had to help Drift, who is bleeding to death. Rodimus and Optimus, thanks to the Matrix, realises that Galvatron is trying to destroy Vector Sigma, but by doing so he'll doom them all. Ironhide, out of his depth all the mystical matters, is grudgingly sent back to the surface to get help for Drift. In the surface a wounded Megatron refuses to give in to D-Void, and blasts the Deceptigod apart with one last cry. In the Vector Sigma chamber, Galvatron reels from the pain as the Deceptigod Avatar is blown apart. Optimus and Rodimus arrive and attack Galvatron and apparently kill Jhiaxus, but Galvatron had already opened the Heart of Darkness before they had arrived. In space, the Kimia shuttle's readouts tell them that Cybertron is no longer there, but since they can still see it, Arcee insists that they go in anyway. Cybertron is ripped apart seemingly by storms and quakes, and the Kimia crew bails onto the surface. Galvatron gloats that nothing can stop him, Hardhead slams the shuttle onto Galvatron. Hardhead and Arcee hold Galvatron back, as Rodimus and Optimus note that the D-Void is coming through. The remaining Sweeps are consumed by the D-Void. Optimus and Rodimus watch as Vector Sigma is consumed, and they realise that the Matrix is the only way. Optimus Prime is initially reluctant as the Matrix is the last thing of their heritage left, and his hesitation gives Galvatron to shoot them in their back, apparently having taken out Arcee and Hardhead while the two Autobots argued.

Galvatron prepares to execute Optimus, gloating that he is going to unite their race as a new leader... but Cyclonus attacks him, enraged by what Galvatron had made him do to the planet that he's sworn to protect. Galvatron knocks Cyclonus aside, but soon is also consumed and broken apart, and realises that he's been duped by the Heart of Darkness all the time. As Galvatron falls apart, Optimus Prime charges into Vector Sigma and opens the Matrix...

All is white, then Optimus Prime kneels beside the two empty halves of the Matrix on a wasteland.

The End.

Featured Transformers: Arcee (killed?), Hardhead (killed?), Crosshairs, Rad, Mainframe, Jackpot, Rung (?), Slamdance, Rewind, Chromedome, Brainstorm, Lightspeed (?), Sureshot, Swerve, Bluestreak, Wheelie, Sideswipe, Cliffjumper, Sweeps (killed), Megatron, D-Void/Deceptigod (killed), Rodimus, Optimus Prime, Ironhide, Drift, Jhiaxus (killed), Galvatron (killed), Cyclonus

Reviews & Commentary: Reviewed by Blackjack

Transformers #31: Pax Cybertronia

December 2011
Written By: Mike Costa
Art By: Casey Coller
Colours By: Joana Lafuente
Letters By: Neil Uyetake
Edits By: John Barber & Carlos Guzman

Synopsis: On Gorlam Prime, some fifteen million years in the future, Alpha Trion tells stories of past events to three eager young Autobots. After arguing of which stories to tell, fireworks for the upcoming Remembrance Night ceremony begins, and Alpha Trion tells the young Autobots to go. The young Autobots say how Alpha Trion's stories seem so much real than the media, when an old, aging Ironhide arrives and scoffs at how Alpha Trion isn't there for most of the Great War. After a quick discussion, the young Autobots speed off towards the ceremony. At the ceremony, the speaker asks the last veteran, Ironhide, to give a speech. Ironhide tells them that the time they live in is what they had been fighting for, recalling some events from the past years. He tells those present that his time has passed, and leaves the hall. Ironhide talks to Alpha Trion in private outside the celebration. He thinks Megatron and Optimus Prime may still be out there, and he expresses that he doesn't understand why he is being honoured even though he is just a relic of a bygone era who did nothing but punch people. Alpha Trion tells Ironhide that his contributions is necessary to understanding the past and the future. One of the young Autobots arrive and ask Ironhide to tell him the story of Megatron's defeat again...

The End (again)

Featured Transformers: Alpha Trion, young Autobots, Soundwave (flashback), Rumble (flashback), Frenzy (flashback), Ravage (flashback), Skywarp (flashback), Megatron (flashback), Brawl (flashback), Razorclaw (flashback), Starscream (flashback), Sentinel Prime (flashback), Optimus Prime (flashback), Sludge (flashback), Shockwave (flashback), Grimlock (flashback), Swoop (flashback), Snarl (flashback), Slag (flashback), Ironhide, Thunderwing (flashback), Devastator (flashback), Shrapnel (flashback), Bombshell (flashback), Kickback (flashback), Laserbeak (flashback), The Swarm (flashback), D-Void (flashback)

Reviews & Commentary: Reviewed by Blackjack

Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime

December 2011
Written By: James Roberts & John Barber
Art By: Nick Roche
Colours By: Josh Burcham
Letters By: Shawn Lee
Edits By: Carlos Guzman

Synopsis: After the events of Chaos, a disoriented Optimus Prime regains consciousness on Cybertron, although the planet is filled with primordial energies, and the landscape is different. Optimus Prime assumes he has been somehow transported into the past… but seeing the corpses of the Sweeps, Optimus realizes he’s still in the present time… but something else has happened. Optimus Prime reaches Iacon, although it is heavily populated by Cybertronians he does not recognize (and vice versa). One of them, Tappet, recognizes ‘Orion Pax’ and starts to berate him, blaming him for Cybetron’s destruction. Sideswipe and Whirl arrive, intimidating Tappet. They tell Optimus that the Cybertronians there are ‘NAIL’s (Non-Aligned Indigenous Lifeforms), Cybertronians who had evacuated Cybertron in the early stages of Civil War. Optimus Prime meets up with Rodimus and Bumblebee, who are organizing the landing of even more NAILs. They tell Optimus Prime how, after the aftermath of Chaos, they easily rounded up the disoriented Decepticons, and the fact that Cybertron had suddenly became alive. Soon afterwards, hordes of NAILs return to the pacified Cybertron, but are at high tensions

Optimus is confronted by Metalhawk, one of the NAILs, who say that the Autobots are playing the part of an oppressing force. Optimus, meanwhile, declares that Metalhawk is a coward who had abandoned Cybertron at the time of need. Suggestions about using the Matrix leads Optimus to reveal that the Matrix is spent, nothing but two halves of empty glass. Optimus is taken to visit the Decepticon Pen. Ratbat attempts to sweet-talk Optimus, but is brushed off. Bumblebee tells Optimus that the Decepticons have been fitted with I/D chips, and while they can escape if they wanted to, there was nowhere to go. Perceptor and Rewind examine the empty halves of the Matrix shell, and Rewind finds lots of old ancient glyphs, and they discover that the Matrix is really an ancient cosmic map.

Day by day, the NAILs grow even more and more agitated. The level-headed Metalhawk is forced to play peacemaker against more aggressively-speaking NAILs like Zetca, promising them that the Autobots will see reason, while warning Bumblebee that it’s a matter of time before things get out of hand. Riots began to escalate, while the Autobots (holed up in Kimia) argue about the discovery made about the Matrix. Drift declares that the Matrix points to the location of the legendary Knights of Cybertron, to Cyberutopia. Bumblebee and Prowl, meanwhile, are skeptical that the Knights even exist. Rodimus is intrigued, however, and argues with Bumblebee, who wants to stay and start over. Bumblebee calls Rodimus out on his past plan to run out, but Rodimus wants to bring the old ways back… when the NAILs attack the Autobot base. Prowl uses Sideswipe’s statement that the potential of Autobots lives at risk as a justification for releasing the captive Decepticons to act as crowd control. Ratbat attempts to get the Decepticons to rebel against the Autobots, but is talked down by Starscream, who says that an alliance between Autobots and NAILs are worse. The Decepticons, threatened by the detonation of I/D chips, beat back the NAILs alongside the Autobots with brute force. Optimus muses that Prowl is unrepentant in doing this.

In the battle, Metalhawk is injured and brought inside Kimia. Inside Kimia, the Autobot command is still arguing. Bumblebee wants a fresh start, while Rodimus wants to get the Knights to rediscover their old heritage. Ultra Magnus tells Rodimus and Drift that he would go with them, because there is a chance that finding the Knights would help coexistence between the Autobots and NAILs. Prowl is outraged, and begins to rant that they owe the NAILs nothing, that the Autobots risked their lives fighting the war while the NAILs want to capitalize on the opportunity and reclaiming the planet even though they ran away. Metalhawk reveals that Prowl used to be a neutral himself who failed to escape, something that Prowl admits to.

Optimus Prime addresses the entire populace of Cybertron, and while he means only the best for them, he grudgingly admits that he has become another aspect of war. He tells them that everyone there has a right to live on the planet, and is willing to leave Cybertron forever in the hopes that society will be able to restructure itself peacefully without him. This defuses the tension. Later that night, Rodimus and Bumblebee continue to disagree, about what Bumblebee would’ve done if Optimus had not offered to leave, about Rodimus’ intent to leave. Rodimus argues that the Knights will be able to restore Cybertron into a Golden Age, while the peace they had there is temporary. Optimus Prime gives Bumblebee and Rodimus each a half of the Matrix shell. Optimus Prime leaves Cybertron for parts unknown. He reflects how, without the Matrix and responsibilities, for the first time, he is free. Optimus Prime is dead, and Orion Pax is reborn.

Featured Transformers: Optimus Prime, Sweeps’ Bodies, Generic NAILs, Tappet, Sideswipe, Whirl, Rodimus, Broadside, Bumblebee, Wheeljack, Swindle (flashback and present), Ultra Magnus (flashback and present), Metalhawk, Ratbat, Cyclonus, Pounce or Wingspan, Horri-Bull, Soundwave, Shockwave, Bombshell, Starscream, Needlenose, Perceptor, Rewind, Zetca, Prowl, Drift, Hook, Mixmaster or Long Haul, Ravage, Blizwing, Red Alert, Jazz, Ratchet

Reviews & Commentary: Reviewed by Blackjack

 

| Transformers #11-20 | Heart of Darkness |IDW Comics Guide | More than Meets the Eye | Robots in Disguise |

 
With thanks for long-term support to sponsors: