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aka Revolutionaries: First Strike (Spoiler free-ish)
Synopses
With Cybertron under siege by Baron Ironblood's forces, Optimus Prime and Arcee defend their homeland! Caught in the middle is the human/Transformer team known as the Revolutionaries—and one of them has a secret that puts everyone at risk!
and
When a bounty hunter drags one of their own into the wilds of Cybertron, the Revolutionaries join forces with Arcee and pursue! But in the midst of war, can humans and Cybertronians put aside their differences, or has the invasion of Cybertron doomed any chance at peace?
WE MISTRUST YOUR PLATELESS FACE DUDE
Story
This review is not late, this is just ..strategy, in keeping with IDW's approach to releases. That's my story and I'm sticking to it. Also, this is the first fully double review for two comics that form a single story that I've done in a while, and for good reason: Optimus Prime and Transformers, the one-shots that mark the Cybertronian tie-ins to the First Strike event, are better seen as a coherent story (with some downsides), and is essentially the coda to the end of Revolutionaries.
You gotta specify a little
There are really two macro-story-threads running through the books, in the shadow (or light) of the events taking place on Cybertron during Ironblood/Colton's attack, and they both coalesce in the character of Centurion/Mike Power - perhaps one of the best 'retcons' we've seen in the TFverse at the hands of John Continuity Barber - and his sibling from another spark if you will, GB Blackrock/Sovereign.
Plus Action Man and ...Optimus?
If on one side they allow for a better exploration of the idea of hybrids, something that keeps coming up in this IDWverse of recent, and the identity of Centurion (complete with some time-hopping and merged memories), and the setting up of Kreiger's real identity and/or motives, on the other it lets down on the specific plot at hand that holds up the story proper.
Subtle
There are more thoughts on these two issues in the latest episode of the Twincast Podcast, but one more point I wanted to make refers to the developing interest between Arcee and one young Ian Noble (definitely not the boyfriend of Doctor X) - which not only does not feel forced, it segues nicely from later developments of Arcee's character in both OP ongoing series and Sins of the Wreckers, of all things.
Art
Working on the first part are Transformers veterans Guido Guidi and John Wycough, and I have to unfortunately admit, that the inks of the latter on the pencils of the former do not complement the visuals well, at all - as I had also noted in a previous issue on the same lines. Which is a shame, as there is some nice panelwork, and Thomas Teyowisonte Deer's colours are very well placed in providing a continuity with the Revolutionaries aesthetic.
Best Bot Buds!
Taken by itself, Priscilla Tramontano and Joana Lafuente's art for the second issue is better overall, and it does fit the way in which the script sets up the characters, but there are inconsistencies throughout the book and the two styles (Guidi and Tramontano) don't really pair up well for the story as a whole. Still, the colours are nicely in sync, even taken side by side.
Just.. gorgeous
The lettering continuity is no issue at all, as not only it's the same letterer on both, but we're talking once more about Tom B. Long, and I've spent many a word praising his work on the IDW books. I do not need to add much, just enjoy it, will you? All the cover variants can be seen, with credit, in our Comics Database here and here, plus you can enjoy the one by Guido Guidi as thumbnail for this review, too.
Thoughts Spoilerish ahead
These two books, and their story were inevitably hindered again by the issues in IDW's release and scheduling, meaning that the two books would've prepared more for the ending of First Strike (Kreiger in particular, a big name in both Revolutionaries and Centurion's personal story here), set a parallel stage, and been made less redundant (OP in particular) if they had come out when they were supposed to rather than when they did. I cannot ignore that, I'm afraid; though it doesn't reflect on the creative teams, it does impact the enjoyment of the story.
..aaand there's robomance
When I started this, I pointed out that the tie-in is essentially a Revolutionaries story - and I stand by that, with the disclaimer that they are probably the best executed actually tying-in of all the books of this ilk, and not just the final issues of the previous series, or the prologues to the next one (looking at all of you, GI Joe, MASK, Rom, Micronauts). It uses the characters well, and setting the action as parallel to the main First Strike story allows to fill in some blanks left by that story, too, along with having some truly excellent interactions that fit well every single character in the book, Arcee above all.
Every two weeks, Seibertron.com brings you a Top 5 list related to all things Transformers written by me, your fellow editor. These are my opinions (just like movie or game reviews hosted by sites are still just the opinion of one person) so what matters most is what you guys think of the topic or list, and I hope to see your own lists or comments on omissions and ranking. Let's have fun! All previous lists can be found here.
Top 5 Best Jet Transformers Toys
This list will be very light on words since all these toys are on this list for very similar reasons. They all distinguish themselves in either their accuracy, engineering or design. And most of all, these jets look amazing in robot mode and have a very tight alt mode, which is crucial in a jet transformer (all these are based on real jets too). No crazy undercarriage here. Also, I am using the word "Jet" to encompass sleek modern aircraft which use jet engines. So no cargo planes or Concords.
This one is here for design. It's pretty cool that this was a new jet design made for the toy and not basing itself on the film aside from a general aesthetic that is combined with a more traditional Transformer look. I really love the originality of having his wings on his legs. It clears his back to give a far sleeker appearance which is perfect for the alt mode.
I love this design. It is impressive how the toy designers found a way to convey the very thin character design and yet still have him transform perfectly.
This mold is legendary and for good reason. Everything about it is spot on to the G1 show form head to feet. I especially like the coneheads since they end up with no jet kibble behind their heads.
Now THAT is some toy! He (and his buddy Skystalker) are the reasons why I cannot say nothing good came from the ROTF movie. That toy line was insane. We had Voyager Bludgeon, the legendary Optimus Leader figure (which keeps getting reissued one way or another) and Mindwipe. The alt mode is dead on and translates really well into a robot modernizing the G1 Bat Transformer. There is no excess alt mode kibble in robot mode, no shell, and there are smooth panels. If it weren't for the slight chicken legs, you wouldn't think this has anything to do with the film. So much so that this mold was used for "Classics" Strafe.
While movie toys are not my favourite, I can't ignore the good ones. There are quite a few and they are so good that they made three of the five entries on this list, including number 1. Leader Starscream made me a believer. I didn't like the wider look Starscream got in the films and I didn't like any of the toys. His hands were either non existent or seen easily in both modes. But this toy converted me. Firstly, the engineers found the perfect way to hide away and integrate his robot legs and arms within the alt mode. Hiding the hands is especially well done. You also get a near perfect jet (which is a very important part of this list) that is almost on the same level as the Masterpiece 03 alt mode (and in Japan, this mold did get a Masterpiece treatment). Unlike the Masterpiece though, the robot mode doesn't seem at odds with the more realistic jet. It is a perfect representation of the movie look come to life and it makes me appreciate it far more by seeing the intricacies of the model and how a robot could indeed be formed from a real life jet.
Honourable Mentions: Of course I won't ignore the Masterpiece Seeker mold. I do prefer how all these toys mentioned accomplish so much with so much less (especially their handling of jet kibble) and at an initially cheaper price point (especially #1, that value was incredible) but I won't deny how beautiful the jet mode is on the masterpiece figures. These toys are also a great example to show the challenge of jet Transformers. If you want a truly perfect alt mode, the robot mode will suffer, as the first batch of Masterpiece seekers revealed. The second had more obvious robot kibble (especially when viewed on the sides) but a much more show accurate robot mode.
Synopsis
With Optimus Prime trapped on Cybertron, the Autobots track down their missing friend, Jazz—and find themselves under fire from humans armed with Cybertronian weapons!
Also, biting IDW commentary
Story
This 12th issue brings us to the second part of a shorter arc dealing with everyone but Optimus Prime himself, too busy being patronised by Windblade and Scarlett over in First Strike (rather than Aileron and Pyra Magna on Earth, so same difference really. He deserves it). And so we return to the Prime fanclub that might be, and the search for Jazz.
and more social commentary
I'll say it: Jazz is one of the better written characters in John Barber's arsenal. He's determined if conflicted, has been present in this universe since the very beginning, and has a long history with pretty much all sides of the war. Even in Aileron's narration, a newcomer to it all, Jazz truly takes the spotlight in the issue.
I swear that's actually Batman
The colonists part of the central story are extremely fun to follow, but there is some criticism that I'd move against their still fairly by the numbers characterisation, with only spikes of added layers to their individuality. Still, Aileron's control over them and their clashing/collaboration work, and lead to a bigger question about the whole set-up..
#squad
..did Optimus really need to include Earth in the Council after all? This is still the bigger question floating above the rest, even when trying to avoid it. But if Jazz, Aileron, and a random assortment can manage the 'defense', there was no real need for the theatrical political move of war general Optimus - something Barber asks subtly, and appropriately.
Art
Seeing Andrew Griffith back at work with John Barber is a nice feeling indeed, and brings a sense of familiarity even in this post-Cybertronian war, post-AHO Earthern setting. The designs and work that he brings back to the scenes, including some nifty action sequences, reminds us of how much he set the tone for exRID and Transformers, and it's good to have some of it drop back in here.
*transforming noises aplenty*
The highlight of the visual side of this issue, and confirming it as the series overall, is Josh Burcham's colourwork - his ability to maintain a visual consistency and coherence even across several artists (four and counting so far) is impressive and inspiring, and does wonders with keeping the book in line with its own newly found aesthetic.
I just wanted to include this panel
Tom B. Long is easily another element of continuity for the series, and I'm so very glad that lettering is recognised as being an integral part of the book production - the reason for, e.g. the Buzzsaw and Laserbeak moments is making the jokes land by actual, accurate dialogue placement, among everything else. The cover used for the thumbnail is also by Andrew Griffith, with Josh Perez on colours, after all the others have been spotlighted across news stories - you can find them all Database entry for the issue of course, right here.
Thoughts Spoilerish ahead
On staff, one of the comments was that Barber's script for the issue has been able to veer enough away from the current events to bring us back to an Earth we might all recognise from pre-AHM times, and it is perhaps a needed anchor for the cast and readership alike, even with all the recent additions. Plus, it adds the whole wave of human reactions to the fray, which may help readers see what the legacy of Transformers actually is on the planet.
Still social commenting
If some of the beats might appear heavy handed for real-life parallels, the script still allows for subtlety in its dealing with Prime's absence - metaphorically and literally - and how the various characters orbiting his system (Aileron above all, but Jazz and the rest of the crew too) relate to each other and the issues at hand. The story may appear 'uneventful' even in its busyness, but it keeps saying a lot about the new, universal status quo.
Prepare your clean pants: the Transtopia spotlight feature is back from the dead! *door creaks in background*
With con season over for our part of the fandom, we have finally some time to unearth the works of the bustling nest of creatives that is the Seibertron.com community, including paint jobs, customs, touch ups, fan fiction, artwork, builds, mods, comics, photos, and more. Make sure to comment if you like what you see, and support the creators in their threads, and pick their brains for more information about their techniques and ideas...
*chewing noises*
THE (NO ONE CAN) HELP DESK
Fellow Seibertronian Black Hat has started a thread to collect all thoughts on custom ideas for anyone willing to join and share creative tips and pointers for projects. You can find it here!
In other news, we have an art request from du365! If you've ever drawn the live-action movie characters with a more TF: Animated style, let them know in this thread.
War for the Core! Deep within Cybertron, the ultimate weapon to kill all Transformers is about to be activated! Meanwhile, Elita One plans to stop the weapon—by killing every human on Cybertron! Either way, looks like some species on Cybertron is going down unless Optimus Prime and Scarlett can save the day…
That's one way of trying
Story
And so, the final issue of the second multi-franchise crossover of Hasbro properties from IDW Publishing comes to a close, with some definite repercussions on the satellite stories it spurred - and a distinct flavouring of corporate mandate that taints an otherwise not-that-bad story, if a little by the numbers in the overall plotting. Read on for some specifics!
This whole page was fun, really
The issue does conclude pretty much as expected the bigger of the various threads set up by Mairghread Scott and David Rodriguez, with Scarlett and Joe Colton facing off against each other as the rest of the cast sort of feel accessory to the main showdown - but the sustained action sequence is very pleasing, as we've seen before from Scott, and the interactions make it perhaps more poignant than expected.
Hammering the point
The coda story, which I mention this early as it picks up the main event of the issue and the arc, is probably the real treasure of the event and the actions of Colton and his band of villainous misfits - and it wonderfully built to fit previously explored and teased moments across the Transformers books in particular - including some from before IDW's presence.
Hey Armada fans
The consequences, then, are varied, but they suffer from the sudden inclusion of property management and company announcements seen in the news cycle until now - see my opening comments - only really allowing the writers to do a lot with what little creative liberties they had in terms of ramifications and character storylines (can't remove all the players from future books, and got to introduce the new ones at some points)
Art
The artwork by Max Dunbar, with colours by Ander Zarate, is on par with the previous issue's efforts - even though some expressions, Colton especially, sometimes suffer from bizarre angles - and there is one particularly well-executed sequence that highlights really well one of the major themes running through the event, and which we've touched in previous reviews too.
Spot the parallel
The coda story, on the other hand, brings veteran James Raiz together with David Garcia Cruz - and oh my, do they deliver on something which doesn't really need that much of an introduction, but still do it beautifully. The script only acts as voice-over for this tiny scene, but the payoff is big indeed.
Just.. gorgeous
Tom B. Long handles the lettering throughout the book magnificently, with the positioning of the script and effects making sure points are heard and jokes land, and in a long action sequence that is never to be underestimated. All the cover variants can be seen, with credit, in our Comics Database, plus you can enjoy the one by Alex Ronald as thumbnail for this piece, too.
Thoughts Spoilerish ahead
There have been flaws in this event, from editorial (typos included, especially when it comes to Kreiger's name) and company perspectives, that I feel have held back a lot of what the writing team could've done having seen their previous efforts. As I mentioned above, what they were able to do was good in the limits of what they could do, and it's a shame that some of the repercussions were a bizarre, sudden introduction to the next chapter in the IDWverse as this book shows...
Introducing: Brian Goldner
The book was able to keep together a fairly big cast of assorted properties, and I was glad to see some of them sidelined to allow for the main story to be told. I really appreciated the parallels between Colton and Optimus Prime, and both of their failings are something I'd like to see revisited soon. And while I am intrigued by the beginnings of the next two major players, the blight of these books (like Revolutionaries, some of the tie-ins, and more before them) confirms itself to be the marketing machine: we knew who both of them were, and we knew it would happen eventually. I wanted to enjoy it much more.
Every two weeks, Seibertron.com brings you a Top 5 list related to all things Transformers, written by a fellow Seibertronian. These are our personal opinions (just like movie or game reviews hosted by sites are still just the opinion of one person) so what matters most is what you guys think of the topic or list, and I hope to see your own lists or comments on omissions and ranking. Let's have fun! All previous lists can be found here.
Top 5 Marvel Comics Decepticon Leaders
When it comes to Transformers, leadership is usually fairly straightforward. Optimus Prime leads the Autobots, and Megatron leads the Decepticons. On rare ocassions someone might have to temporarily fill the role for them like Ultra Magnus or Starscream; and back in the 80s cartoon Rodimus Prime and Galvatron got a very long run of it. But in the original Transformers comics by Marvel, straightforward is the last word you could use to describe the seat of command -- deaths, power struggles and plotting behind the scenes were aplenty in both factions; leading to a much more varied and ever-changing selection of faction Leaders for avid fans of the comic. And so today, we're going to count down the Top 5 Leaders of the Decepticons in the Marvel comics. Focusing on the US side of things with only a tinge of UK material, let's dig right in and see on whose shoulder Laserbeak deserves to sit most.
5. Bludgeon
Bludgeon, admittedly, doesn't get a lot of time in the driver's seat. With the post of Decepticon Leader left an open vacancy after the thrilling epic Edge of Extinction, the new leader only has a handful of issues to prove his worth before the comic's unfortunate end at Issue 80 -- and it's impressive to see how easily Bludgeon throws himself into the role. Immediately appointing a second-in-command and usurping the Autobots' attempts at peace before sneakily taking all the working shuttles off-world, he successfully leads an invasion of an innocent planet and personally chopping down a handful of Grimlock-led Autobots himself. His limited panel-time as leader is what lands him so low on the list, but what he does with that time still impresses me enough to give him a spot.
4. Ratbat
It's very difficult to leave this guy off the table when talking about unique Decepticon Leaders. While usually we see a powerhouse like Straxus or Galvatron take control, it's certainly different to see a small Cassette take command of the main Decepticon forces. Not content with just being unique in stature, Ratbat sees fit to employ a unique command structure as well; focusing all his efforts on saving and conserving energy after deeming the earth-bound Decepticons' fuel consumption to be inefficient. While he usually had to share the role with Shockwave or Scorponok and only got the spotlight to himself for a short time, he nevertheless struck an impact with his unique approach and his characterisation would prove to be inspiring enough to get echoed in the likes of IDW and the Aligned continuity.
3. Thunderwing
Marvel saw fit to go all-out when it came to unique styles of leadership. From Grimlock's ruthlessness to Ratbat's fuel conservation... to Thunderwing's addiction. While he only steals a small squad of Decepticons rather than assuming control of the entire faction, Thunderwing still proved to be probably the most terrifying Decepticon leader in the comics since Galvatron. Driven by his obsession for the Autobots' sacred Creation Matrix, having the power to back it up and not caring a jot for the units under his command other than a means to an end, the Mega Pretender fought as a one-man army against everyone in his way and winning every time - and actually succeeded where Megatron continually fails in obtaining his coveted Creation Matrix. How better can it be put than the High Councillors who named him leader in the UK comic -- "You exhibited single-mindedness, ruthlessness and fighting prowess! The perfect qualities for leadership!"
2. Scorponok
On the face of things, Scorponok might seem fairly basic for a Decepticon leader. He's big, he's powerful, he's mean, he's shouty; everything you'd expect from your standard 'con in control. And, in fact, he does start off like that when we first see him on Cybertron - but then we introduce the human factor.
The Headmaster gimmick is something that is always criticised as being very confusing in both toys and the G1 cartoon, but I will always applaud how the Marvel comics handled it; clearly showing a distinct bond and melding of minds that when focused upon can make for some truly compelling characterisation, especially when Marvel was so good at characterising its humans. And it is Zarak - Scorponok's Headmaster - that really makes this Decepticon Leader work. As the comics go on, we keep seeing subtle little hints that Scorponok's bloodthirstiness is being quelled and reined in by Zarak's more calm and intellectual mind. Forging truces; eventually coming round to seeing Optimus Prime's concerns about Unicron -- and even, finally, making the ultimate sacrifice near the end of the comic. Scorponok is an entertaining Decepticon Leader on his own, but it's the binary bonding that truly lands him a spot so high on this list.
1. Megatron
Megatron, much like Scorponok, seems like just your standard Decepticon leader at first sight. Much like early Scorponok, all the bullet points are there -- he's a lot more ruthless and intelligent than his cartoon counterpart to be sure, but that doesn't necessarily mean he's an incredible character on its own.
So what makes this one stand out from the rest? What nets Megatron the Number 1 spot? His burgeoning insanity. It's clear right from the start, but with each issue we see more and more of Megatron's sick, twisted mind and every major loss and event drives him further and further into a pit of despair. Constant power struggles with Shockwave and blows to his dignity and power in battles with the Autobots contribute to a shattered psyche that finally culminates when his eternal foe, Optimus Prime; dies -- and not at his hands. In Gone But Not Forgotten - a story this user considers to be one of the best of Marvel's Transformers stories - we see the end result of this madness as a space bridge catastrophe orchestrated by Shockwave finally brings death to the babbling madman, brought about by his own crippling insanity.
Honourable mentions:
Shockwave is usually the one that most minds drift to when someone thinks of alternate Decepticon Leaders in the Marvel comics, so his not being on the list may be surprising. It is, quite simply, because this reader found the 5 on the list to be more entertaining characters -- but that's not to say Shockwave doesn't deserve a mention, far from it. When he takes over from Megatron it turns the Decepticons into a very intimidating and formidable fighting force; a logical, well-oiled and efficient machine committed purely to expanding their forces and their fuel resources before moving on to domination. While later issues wouldn't portray him as solidly, Shockwave's original Decepticon Leadership was still pretty damn impressive.
Soundwave is a very interesting character when it concerns Decepticon leadership, though moreso when he's pulling the strings and mediating between power struggles rather than assuming full command. He's a constant presence all throughout the comic; always somehow surviving and always taking up a main role among the Decepticons. And, rest assured, he does get his own run of the place in a few UK future timeline stories -- which are absolutely glorious. Soundwave superior!
I see a lot of questions on the boards and with the recent shows and images surfacing online, I thought having everything in one place could help, at least as a reference.
Firstly, this line is basically Combiner Wars 2.0 with Prime Master Integration, and the Prime Masters use the very same ports as the Titan Masters from Titans Return.
Here are the 5 different classes and their suggested prices (which has increased from Titans Return for a few classes). Please remember that these are Hasbro's suggested prices to retailers based on the average retailer's cost and subsequent markup. They can be higher or lower depending on the retailer.
Prime Master: Approx. Retail Price: $5.99
There will be 12 in total comping out in the line (as far as we have been told) and each one will be a small robot which turns into a symbol representing on of the Primes. Everyone of these small robots have the same size and playability as Titan Masters. They each come in a with a small suit that homages a G1 pretender and which can turn into a weapon. The Prime Masters can also plug into the combiner hands and feet when they are used as armour, and they can also plug into the Matrix found in each leader class figure.
Legends Class: Approx. Retail Price: $9.99
These are very similar to the legends class we got in Titans Return where most have a port to attach a Titan/Prime Master. There is no indication that these will turn into weapons, like some did in Combiner Wars. Their interaction in this line's ecosystem is with the Prime Masters.
Deluxe Class Approx. Retail Price: $19.99
Every Deluxe class toy in this line can turn into an arm or a leg to combine with a voyager torso. Each Deluxe comes with a combiner hand which can plug into its body as some sort of shield or power up.
Voyager Class Approx. Retail Price: $29.99
Every Voyager in this line can turn into a combiner torso to combine with the deluxe arms and legs. They each come with two combiner feet which plug onto their forearms as power gauntlets, as well as an engima of combination.
Leader Class Evolution Approx. Retail Price: $49.99
To our current knowledge, every Leader Class in this line has an evolution gimmick (hence the word's inclusion in the size class name) where a smaller robot combines with parts of his alt mode and turns into a larger robot. Each of these so far are based on actual evolutions that have happened in Transformers fiction, turning a character into his evolved form. Each comes with a matrix which is Titan/Prime Master compatible.
Titan Class Predaking (price yet to be revealed, though $150 price point is assumed)
This toy has yet to be fully revealed but from what we know it will be made of the 5 Predacons, and sport the traditional G1 colours. Each Predacon will all be around the voyager size, much like the previous Constructicons. His interaction in this line's ecosystem is that he can store both a matrix and the enigma of combination (and thus, any Titan/Prime Master)
Wave Breakdown and Time Frame
Hasbro goes by season for product releases, so I will translate that into an approximate time frame to give an idea of when the toys could be seen on shelves.
Wave 1: Between December 2017 and March 2018
Prime Master: Liege Maximo and Skullgrin Decoy Armor, Micronus and Cloudburst Decoy Armor, Vector Prime and Metalhawk Decoy Armor
Synopsis
HOMECOMING! FIRST AID, the Autobots' Chief Medical Officer, returns to the Lost Light to find that everything has changed: the ship is now under the command of the treacherous GETAWAY, half of his closest friends are missing, and-most shocking of all-the crew is actually making progress...
THIS close
Story
It's been a really long while since we last saw the Lost Light (ship) in its titular series, at least for more than a corner of a panel shot of the outside, and this issue has been expected by a lot of readers in generally two large camps of positive and negative apprehension. How did it fare? I find myself squarely between both.
#same
James Roberts' script brings First Aid and the Protectobots - and makes a running gag out of Rook's presence too that will sound familiar to the fandom (at least in the opening paragraph, if not the issue itself) - in a way that will please readers that wanted to see more of First Aid, that is most definitely a given. Along with him, and I'm thinking of Riptide and Mirage in particular, bring very much plenty of their core characteristics to a plotting that needs anchors.
Like canonical linchpin Rook
On the other side, there are two major points I disagree with in the issue: the twisting of the plot - which is an extremely gigantic spoiler to talk about here, so see below - and the disparity of treatment of character between Getaway and Megatron. Namely: how do you turn a character (Getaway) that has had legitimate motives for action, while terrible morals in doing said action, I am not disputing that and never have, into the Worst Character Ever by playing with issues of narcissism, despotry and manipulation - points he entirely 'redeemed' in the actual despot (Megatron) said character was going against?
Look, I'm torn, ok?
There are obviously two more issues to make the writing work, including the frustrating take on Getaway so far that may be more justified (or at least explained, somehow), but I come away from this book with a feeling that The Twist has reduced that space significantly - and without good reason - and limit some character work that could've otherwise intervened. More below.
Art
In terms of the visual work, however, I believe this to be one of the best displays of patient and careful work by Jack Lawrence, who has a nowhere-near-easy job of laying out scenes and panels in such a way that can hint at what might be actually taking place without revealing anything until it actually is. But take a close look at the crowd scenes, on a second read, and compare to the individual shots.
Sample panel
What I also really appreciate, in the same way as that last point about the lineart, is how Joana Lafuente manages to bring a really quite dark tone overall by juxtaposing dull grey and brown palettes from the backgrounds with the otherwise brighter coloured characters and scenes - you know something just isn't quite right by just looking at it.
Other than the screeching, I mean
As a result, Tom B. Long work on letters doesn't have as much scope to include big fancy games, but the subtle plays with font sizes do lend themselves to the same effect as both art and colours. And he still manages to squeeze in some satisfying soundwords, too. I chose the Alex Milne and Josh Perez cover for the review thumbnail as a spotlighting reminder of the factions, but you can find all of the covers for the book right here, in our database entry.
Thoughts Spoilerish ahead
I was disappointed, as you may have been able to tell through the review. I was disappointed not because of the entirely made-up feud between #TeamRodimus and #GetawayDidNothingWrong (that neither side takes seriously except when people step in and think they both do), but at how perceptions of what makes a villain have worrying ramifications since Megatron's redemption and Getaway's first introduction. Yes, the series is character-driven for the most part, or at least latches on to the characters to drive its plot, but I feel there's something missing from a bigger ethical, moral picture. Is Getaway a lying populist riding a wave of actual malcontent? Yes. Does that mean that everyone who is following him is exactly the same? No. Are we in danger of equating the two? Yes. Was Megatron given the same damning treatment during and after a genocide trial..? Why are we so clearly manipulated as readers by the narrative?
*coff*
Some of the characters are well written, well pitted against or with each other, but there are enough that are brought to the limit of their bio tag-line instead of using that as a core to make me not enjoy what the script might be trying to do with that comment. And I feel it detracts a lot from the space that the visual side of the story - for a recurring theme seen in all of TAAO for example - has to expand on how to deal with manipulation and the type of sequence that closes the book.
Kong: Wraith Island A Seibertron.com review of IDW ROM vs. Transformers: Shining Armor #4
Synopsis
Stardrive is torn between joining her fellow Transformers and staying with Rom and his knights… and the fate of an innocent world rests in her choice!
My actual face come page 16
Story
Here we are, issue 4 of 5, the leadup to the grand finale, the final chance to brace ourselves for the great conclusion. And let me tell you: the issue is spectacular in so many ways. Barber and Gage have done their job in an awesome way.
Oh, it really has been
Let's get this out of the way straight out of the gate: this story is strange and weird, spectacularly so, and would not fit anywhere else but in the pages of a crossover from 200 years ago. The very concepts tackled over the course of the story, dealing with possession, wraith magic, and techno-organic fusions are very unique, and really only have 1 chance to be done right. And in this series, they are all done right. They are done in never before seen ways that really do capture your attention and make you want to see more (go to page 15's King Kong scene followed by the 16/17 shot to truly understand why this statement is so).
He's just jealous he's not getting all the praise
Outside of the absolute uniqueness of the story and the concepts, we have some fairly good characters to go with things. Character building, as was said in the previous reviews, is nothing to really be concerned about, seeing as how all characters involved already have good characterization already set up, or we won't really need to worry about what kind of characters they are for long. I liked how Magnus was used for the brief narration moments, how deliciously manipulative Starscream is, and how the character's voices work with each other, drowning out the more boring ones and providing a good overall balance.
So, good established characters, decent new characters, bizarre concepts and magics, and you have Shining Armor!
Art
Art duties are covered by the famous team of Alex Milne and Josh Perez, and while the story has been pretty good, save for some him-hawing around in issue 2, the art has not wavered from the amazing spectacle that it is. The characters, the backgrounds, and the spectacle that is the weirdness and outlandish of Shining Armor all shine through with Milne and Perez. The lines are great, the designs are good, the expressions are juicy, and the coloring works better this issue, with the nighttime better fitting the cold atmosphere described and the rising sun allowing the curtain to rise on the final sprint to the finish of the series a great scene.
Like I said, expressions
Shawn Lee covers the lettering in this issue, and while there is nothing really spectacular to write home about, there are no faults in the lettering. The speech bubbles don't inhibit the visuals in any way, and the standard knight/cybertronian speeches collected with the wraith bubbles are a nice balance.
The face you will make by the end of the issue
Final Thoughts
I laughed at this. Had to include it
This series has proven to be one of the best crossovers the shared universe has had so far, and I would go so far as to say it is the best, but Kup and Action Man over in Revolutionaries makes that a bit difficult. The story is a good one, even if the main new character, Stardrive, is a bit predictable. The Wraiths and the Decepticons are great in this story though, and the art is fantastic, perfectly capturing how unique this series is. This is an issue I would highly recommend, and I'm hoping issue 5 finishes this off nicely, because it deserves it.
Seibertron.com had the pleasure of conducting an exclusive interview with The Sequence Group, a design and animation firm in Vancouver, who recently animated our favorite franchise, Transformers. Teaming up with Kabam, Sequence helped create cinematic trailers for the TRANSFORMERS: Forged to Fight mobile game. Through speaking to Sequence, we were able to gain better insight into the design of these digital 3D characters, not unlike the live action Transformers films. Due to the interview being conducted in a conversational manner, what you will find below is a description of was discussed, followed by two videos showing the step by step process of creating the cinematics for game studio Kabam.
A Love for Transformers
I was glad to hear how overjoyed the entire team was at the opportunity to dabble in the Transformers franchise. These are all people that grew up with the G1 cartoon and the toys, much like the Forged to Fight team, and they poured their heart and souls into the few minutes we have in the trailers.
Speaking of time, this was their main constraint. Sequence and Kabam initially had longer scenes in mind, especially of the characters emerging from the crash landing, but that had to be cut to make the trailer fit within the tight run time. For those curious about other "deleted scenes", Sequence was eager to show a view from inside the Ark as it crashes, rather than seeing it plummet through the atmosphere.
Level of Creativity in Cinematics Based on a Video Game
I was very curious as to what Sequence’s leeway was in terms of creativity, especially since we are talking about an animated trailer sequence based on a game, based on pre-existing characters and designs.
Ultimately, Kabam had already developed a thorough script and a character roster line up (with design cues for the characters to match up with their looks in Forged to Fight), along with prerecorded voice clips of Peter Cullen. There wasn't any leeway in how Optimus Prime appeared, but the rest was up to Sequence, with a little guidance from Kabam’s talented art department.
Working closely with the Art Direction team at Kabam, a huge range of visual elements had to be strategized for maximum impact; including camera angles, lighting effects, particle effects, basically everything in the way a shot is composed and presented.
The example given to me was Megatron's reveal. The script says when Megatron is revealed and his design was provided by Kabam (using his Revenge of the Fallen body), but it was up to Sequence to make this moment stand out as much as possible. Sequence added extra smoke effects, worked with lighting and established the environment to add a sense of foreboding to his reveal, and that of his Decepticon army. By combining creative concepts between Sequence and Kabam, the two companies found a quick but efficient way to establish who Decepticons are (the bad guys), even to someone who may not know these characters.
While the trailer is very quick, a lot of thought went into making each character feel unique, which is important in a fighting game with different classes and different characters that suit different play styles. Sequence aimed to have each main character walk and move in a particular way, for instance, with supervision from Kabam’s game developers.
Lighting and Challenges with Scale
I wondered if Sequence was given any specific directions. It turns out Kabam wanted to use lighting like in a car commercial, highlighting bot shapes to make the models look as good as possible, since many of these models reflect toys we already have. And that is what Sequence was going for, because as I learnt, having 3D models be simpler and smoother makes them lose a sense of scale. Light needs to bounce off of the material in order to make it look realistic to the human eye, so you have to add as many light sources as possible.
This lighting approach ends up working fine if your goal is an awesome toy commercial, which was the goal in this case, but then I realized the big challenges Michael Bay and company may have had with bringing these characters to life. The importance of lighting and its connection to realism was very revealing to me. I will admit, I do prefer a smoother, simpler look to my Transformers over the extremely busy designs in the Michael Bay films, but this helped me understand the choice behind it.
In animation of any kind, it is the studio artists who can control infinite light sources in fictional 3D space but once you mix in live action, the light sources have to be consistent with whatever else is seen on screen in order to keep the realism that both the CG and live action components of a shot are sharing in the same space. So since the light source is limited by the practical environment (for example, take the shot in the 4th movie where Lockdown hunts down Ratchet), the realism of the scale within the shot has to be compensated by the light bouncing off of as many bot faces and facets as possible, hence the very busy character designs. And in a less technical way of seeing it, it is harder to get a sense of scale with a smooth surface so adding a lot of detail, rivets and plating to any design of a robot helps you see and understand how big it is, even in closeups where there is nothing to compare its size to.
Challenges with Posing and Positioning
Lighting and complexity of design isn't the only challenge when it comes to animating Transformers. The thing is, as explained by The Sequence Group, Transformers don't usually have the same proportions as humans. When keeping the more blocky character designs, which they do in this case, the action can be obscured by a bot's chunky features so it's all about positioning and layout. Since the characters are blocky, certain poses will result in the viewer having a hard time understanding the intended action.
Sequence pointed toward a shot of Bludgeon entering the scene. They wanted to capture the most dynamic angle possible as his sword dropped down. After much discussion, Kabam and Sequence decided on having the camera fall under him and off center, so the audience could see as much of his pose as possible. This is very different than having two humans fighting with swords, I was told, where several clean and readable angles are possible.
This also gives me another tip regarding recent choices in the Michael Bay films where the robots have gotten much closer to human proportions starting in Age of Extinction with Optimus Prime, Lockdown, Crosshairs and Drift (followed by all those knights in The Last Knight). Perhaps their solution to having clearer action scenes was to make the bot character models more humanoid than ever before in the franchise, instead of limiting possible camera angles.
Difference between Trailer and Game Graphics and Trailer Breakdowns
From a technical aspect, I was curious as to how these trailers differed from cinematics in the game itself. For instance, why couldn't the game's engine be used for trailer cinematics? As it turns out, the difference lies in the amount of light-sources available and the overall quality. If graphics were all in engine (rather than pre-rendered), you wouldn't be able to run the game.
Now here are two videos showing the breakdown of two trailers. You will see how it starts with an illustrated 2D storyboard, then transforms into rough 3D models, and then rendered models, followed by all the environmental effects.
Special thanks to founder and Creative Director Ian Kirby and Executive producer Dan Sioui for the interview as well as Georgia at Grammatik PR for helping this interview happen and connecting us with The Sequence Group.
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