TRANSFORMERS ARMADA #(1) - Free Comic Book Day Issue
Cover Date: May 2003
Story: Brandon Easton
Pencils: Guido Guidi
Inks: Elaine To
Lettering: Paul Villafuerte
Setting: Cybertron. Earth.

Plot Summary:
The issue starts with a flashback detailing how the Mini-Cons arrived on Earth, then cuts to Earth, where Carlos and Rad are heading to school. On their way there, they run into Swindle, who is on the run from the Decepticons. Rad and Carlos agree to help him, but are suddenly caught by Cyclonus and Starscream. Demolishor captures them, but they are rescued by Hot Shot, Red Alert and Smokescreen, who battle the Decepticons until Megatron arrives. They capture Rad and Carlos, but fail to free Swindle, as they had agreed. Before the Decepticons could do anything, Optimus arrives, and does battle with the Decepticons. Unfortunately, he is soon captured as well. Hiding out, Rad and Carlos run into Swindle, who soon grabs the discarded weapons and frees the Autobots. Optimus and the others drive the Decepticons off, but not before Starscream captures Swindle.

Transformers/Humans Featured (in rough order of appearance):
Megatron, Sonar, Wreckage, Spiral, Jolt, Blackout, Sparkplug (all in flashback). Carlos, Rad, Swindle, Starscream, Cyclonus, Demomlisher, Red Alert, Hot Shot, Smokescreen, Optimus Prime.

Other Notes:
The issue seems to have been made as an intro to the Armada comic for new readers, as almost every character is mentioned by name at least one, and has been given a detailed, yet brief bio about them. Hints of the Megatron/Starscream conflict are present during this issue as well. This comic was freely given out at most comic store on May 3rd, 2003.

Review: For a stand alone story, this issue was very well done. Brandon Easton obviously has some knowledge of the characters, and manages to make Prime, Demolisher, Starscream and Megatron sound much like they would in the regular comic and cartoon. Don Figueroa, of "War Within" fame, did the issue's artwork, and shows the reader why he is a fan favorite. With the knowledge that he is signed to do the "World's Collide" story arc, one can expect to see his artwork a lot more. The story was stand alone, not meant to connect to the regular storyline in any way. But it does have it's moments. It's one day sell period might make it hard to find, though, but if you can get it, I recommend it.

Review by Bombshell