Transformers Reviews News from Seibertron.com

Transformers Reviews News from Seibertron.com http://www.seibertron.com/news/index.php?f_cat=6 Seibertron.com - The Ultimate Transformers Website! en news@seibertron.com (Seibertron.com News) (c)2013 Seibertron.com Tue, 18 Jun 2013 19:04:17 EDT Tue, 18 Jun 2013 19:04:17 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/images/logos/seibertron-large.jpg Transformers Reviews News from Seibertron.com http://www.seibertron.com/news/index.php?f_cat=6 <![CDATA[Transformers: Monstrosity #1 Review]]> Tue, 18 Jun 2013 15:35:31 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/transformers-monstrosity-1-review/27610/ ea799d492b21b72892c419cab153aaa5 Comic Book News, Reviews To Be Continued
(Spoiler free-ish)

Synopsis

MEGATRON'S DESCENT! In the early days of the war on CYBERTRON, OPTIMUS PRIME puts everything on the line to unify the planet—but not everyone agrees that this new Prime should be in charge! Meanwhile, the fallen DECEPTICON leader, MEGATRON, begins a journey that will change everything. Plus—what is the terrible secret of the DINOBOTS?

Say cheese!

Story

In an unexpected, unless you read the solicits, twist, IDW have decided to release their digital-first series Monstrosity as a mini-series of four print issues, before issuing the paperback. The series picks up where Autocracy left, and features the same creative team at the helm: Metzen, Dille and Ramondelli.

That lot

As seems to be the norm by now in IDW Transformers, there are a number of plots running alongside each other in the same issue (which is, in fact, three digital releases): Megatron has been chucked onto Junkion by Scorponok, who now wants to be the big 'Con, Orion Pax Optimus Prime trying to assert his power as new 'Bot leader, and the Dynobots.. being the Dynobots.

The usual

Dai Atlas shows up, Scorponok is bad, Swindle is ..Swindle and there's quite the rounded cast to the whole set-up. Maybe a little too big, at times. There's a sense of wanting to include a lot material in a really short type of publication, and in some aspects, that can detract from the overall enjoyment.

Bulkhead's here too!

So far, I am not blown away by the story. Megatron sometimes borrows some elements (as I see it) from the live-action films, and that is not a value judgement, at all. But he is not particularly original, and I have a bad feeling he may become tiresomely 'tough-bad-guy'. We'll see.

Art

In terms of art, we've all come to know Livio Ramondelli's work, and I think he has definitely improved his technique: where he used to shine particularly in wide shots and splash pages, he now packs a mean punch in terms of close-ups too! The monstrous aspect of some of the characters also works really well with his style.

And I mean close-ups

In terms of colours, it's Ramondelli working on his own, and yes, he does know how to colour. Quite nicely, too. And I am really really happy to see Tom B. Long on lettering here too! He works really well with the art style, and adds some really good soundwords to fight scenes.

Indeed

So the art is pretty good, the colours are amazing, some of the wideshots are absolutely stunning, the lettering makes stuff really pop. Yes, artistically, this is a good issue. My minor pick is with smiles on some of the characters, that can look a little out of place at times, but it is a minor pick!

Thoughts
Spoilerish ahead

There you have it. Artistically, I have very few complaints, and it all looks brilliant. I do, however, have some issues with the story, especially in terms of Megatron's characterisation. I will be looking out for how his story develops from the next issue, and it will hopefully pick up again - there's so much interesting potential in the character.

Like, why does he adore cloaks?

All in all, this is an enjoyable if predictable issue, and I believe it has to live with its predecessor Autocracy and the two current ongoings - especially seeing as it comes out together with the highly well-received More Than Meets The Eye. It's worth a read, definitely, as there are some nice surprises going on in there, and I'm interested to see where they'll be taken.

½ out of

]]> <![CDATA[Video Review: Transformers Generations Legends Class Megatron with Chop Shop]]> Tue, 18 Jun 2013 12:18:00 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/video-review-transformers-generations-legends-class-megatron-with-chop-shop/27608/ 8c098a1efc4982a82f48850fda1b3d05 Reviews, Toy News peaugh has now posted his review of Transformers Generations Legends Class Megatron with Chop Shop. Megatron comes in his tank vehicular mode and Chop Shop transformers into both an insect and weapon. Check out his review embedded below:

]]> <![CDATA[Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye #18 Review]]> Tue, 18 Jun 2013 08:36:55 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/transformers-more-than-meets-the-eye-18-review/27604/ 0b1d284761d4b63f8cc768cec096967b Comic Book News, Reviews The 'Wait, whut?' Issue
(Spoiler free-ish)

Synopsis

"DON'T LET THEM TAKE SKIDS!" The crew of the Lost Light left CYBERTRON before they could hear those words—part of a message from the future warning of terror and catastrophe and a threat to the entire Cybertronian race. Can the AUTOBOTS do anything to stop the beginning of the end?

Skids, being observant

Story

Rodimus is still telling his story to Ambus, as the crew we know of seem to be stuck in a room, or a cell. And we've reached the point at which we actually start finding out what has happened - at least, as much as Roberts will let on within the span of a single issue.

Tick tock

At the same time, though, the part of the crew left on the ship, all of the parts of the crew left on the ship, are fighting off the legion of Legislators that have invaded The Lost Light. Swerve and Skids, Whirl and Cyclonus, Trailcutter, Dipstick, Hoist - everyone. And Ratchet faces Pharma. Mad Doctor Pharma.

Yeah, that guy

I will not spoil anything about this issue, because saying anything will ruin, in my opinion, the reading experience. I will not hold back on spoilers if this keeps happening though. What I will say is: There is one big reveal, a startling one and silent yet massive one. Oh, and a minor shocking one.

This might be one of them - sort of

There is a distinct feeling that Roberts has been trying to cram a lot of things into this issue, and I think that detracts from the full enjoyment of the story. That said, it's still a fun, fast-paced, swift-turning read, and plenty enjoyable.

Art

Milne is definitely back, since last issue, and his style just shines through. Shearer's work on inks really makes it show, as well. There are some amazing-looking panels, including the Metrotitan graveyard, and there are so many action shots that it's incredible he can keep everything working at the same time. But it works. He manages to drop in some cameos too.

STEVE(S)!

There are some seriously amazing things being done with colour and lettering too. The Metrotitan graveyard shot is nothing short of gorgeous, with Burcham's toned-down grey and brown and the sheer sense of scale of these things. And Tom B. Long gets a double round of applause for his My First Blaster singing-bubbles.

Customisers everywhere go in a frenzy

What can I add, the artistic team on this issue does a fantastic job. Milne and Shearer do great linework, Burcham adds his colour magic and Long rounds it off with amazing lettering. Seriously, I have nothing to say on top of that!

Thoughts
Spoilerish ahead

So the issue is well paced, shifting almost seamlessly between narration, multiple action scenes and present-time happenings. It looks gorgeous, and there are some wide shots which are truly breathtaking. Why do I feel there's a but coming, then? Too many revelations.

I bloody well hope so

I know, people will complain because I'm complaining about new things happening, but as I said before, I think too much has been thrown into a single issue, something that had happened already with the Overlord battle. It's a little too packed to score a perfect ten (well, five) but it's an amazing issue, and you'd be a fool not to pick it up.

out of

]]> <![CDATA[Video Review: Generations Voyager Sandstorm]]> Tue, 18 Jun 2013 04:34:28 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/video-review-generations-voyager-sandstorm/27601/ f5f45bd88f652e32ec668001dbd0f666 Reviews, Toy News peaugh has uploaded yet another review, this time of Transformers Generations Voyager Class Sandstorm, the highly anticipated triple changer, remold and redeco of Voyager Springer. Check out his review embedded below!

]]> <![CDATA[Video Review: Transformers Generations Legends Class Starscream with Waspinator]]> Tue, 18 Jun 2013 01:18:00 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/video-review-transformers-generations-legends-class-starscream-with-waspinator/27600/ 0b20b85cfa0fdcf6d8be5b1bd492657b Reviews, Toy News peaugh has uploaded his review for Transformers Generations Legends Class Starscream with Waspinator. Starscream comes in his tradition G1 appearance with a dash of IDW flavor plus a tiny Waspinator who transformers from robot to insect to weapon. Check out his review embedded below.

]]> <![CDATA[Auto Assembly 2013 Tshirts Available]]> Mon, 17 Jun 2013 15:33:36 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/auto-assembly-2013-tshirts-available/27592/ 87643558f59645fee530b89aedce108b Event News, Reviews Transformermegazord (aka YouTube reviewer Benscollectables) has dropped by with a video showing off Auto Assembly's first ever official t-shirts, with exclusive artwork done by Ed Pirrie. The t-shirts are available here, and feature four different designs: Prime Starscream, G1 Bumblebee, RID Optimus Prime and the All-star, showing off a number of different characters, including the previous three.

You can check out the video embedded below.

]]> <![CDATA[Japanese Language Review of Transformers Go! G01 Kenzan]]> Mon, 17 Jun 2013 00:21:47 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/japanese-language-review-of-transformers-go-g01-kenzan/27585/ f3c0313024c360081a1e127bb178ba02 Reviews
]]> <![CDATA[Video Review: Transformers Prime Beast Hunters Sharkticon Megatron - Transformers: Retribution Novel Coming this Fall]]> Thu, 13 Jun 2013 13:32:00 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/video-review-transformers-prime-beast-hunters-sharkticon-megatron-transformers-retribution-novel-coming-this-fall/27545/ eb3f82c850a53feeffc2f1de0b5eccfa Reviews, Toy News felzbug has posted a review of the Transformers Prime Beast Hunters Voyager Sharkticon Megatron, which apparently is his official name. The somewhat lighthearted review is embedded below.

The figure's instructions also mention a previously unknown novel, Transformers: Retribution, which Random House will be publishing later this Fall.

]]> <![CDATA[Transformers Prime: Beast Hunters #2 Review]]> Tue, 11 Jun 2013 08:49:55 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/transformers-prime-beast-hunters-2-review/27513/ f4aa2763531689163f2408e321bdcf23 Comic Book News, Reviews Spotlight: Sludge
(Spoiler free-ish)

Synopsis

THE WORLD BELOW! Deep beneath the surface of CYBERTRON, the last vestiges of life struggles to survive. Their only protectors: GRIMLOCK and his loyal DINOBOTS — who find themselves at the center of a dark mystery!

So dark, it's mostly shadows

Story

The first issue of this new series introduced us to some new characters and settings, all very different from the other IDW ongoings, and even from the Prime animated series. The Dinobots are in charge, Grimlock leading them, energon is scarce, and there are a lot of issues to be dealt with - including the piles of bodies found by Last Spark inhabitant Firestar.

CSI: Cybertron

Even though the synopsis talks about Grimlock, it's Sludge that is the real protagonist here - and a well deserved spot it is - with Snarl in tail (ha! Tail!). Mairghread Scott seems to take some cues from Barber's style, working with previous continuity issues and patching them up, and also by having a running internal monologue through captions.

He didn't die!

The tone of the issue, and the series so far, is a fairly dark and gritty one. A lot of deaths (though several off-panel), including quite graphic ones, talk of cannibalism and vampirism, betrayal and extreme survival. It's really quite engaging.

Killing, not eating. Oh that's ok then.

I am very pleased with the attention given to minor characters in the Dinobot ranks, and it was time for Sludge to shine. Dealing with the Last Spark Autobots is also a really good idea, as it allows to work outside of the usual cast (who are currently engaged on Earth, as part of the animated series).

Art

The artwork is also really good, though at times it can look a bit overcrowded. Agustin Padilla, who also worked on Spotlight: Hoist as well as Rage of the Dinobots, does a nice job of adapting game designs to comics-style, in my opinion, and they all really fit the tone quite well. As I said, there is the risk of some panels feeling overcrowded, but overall, the result is good.

And I mean good

The colours are faultless, but I was expecting nothing less from the likes of Priscilla Tramontano. They really help out those parts where the art may have been a little hard to manage. And Tom B. Long's lettering does its usual amazing things, too, with some really nice soundwords and font matching.

Vertical chooming

The artistic team works really well with the storyline, and I think Padilla, while still having room for improvement, is definitely the best bet for the series. I would like to see him on other titles again, too. Colours and letters really help out too, in a complementary ensemble that conveys the full range of the story. The covers by Ken Christiansen are excellent, too!

Thoughts
Spoilerish ahead

I really enjoyed it. I have yet to properly read its predecessor, but Beast Hunters has me intrigued to the point that I'm adding it to my must read list for the coming months. There are hints at the past, with the games, and hints at the present/future, with the animated series, but still lives and works perfectly well by itself.

Visual pun!

All in all, a very pleasant surprise. There are some minor flaws, but they can be overlooked in view of the full experience, and they really do not detract from the enjoyment of the issue. If you haven't read issue 1, pick it up as soon as you can, and sink your teeth into this well fleshed-out new series.

out of

]]> <![CDATA[Transformers ReGeneration One #92 Review]]> Tue, 11 Jun 2013 07:07:58 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/transformers-regeneration-one-92-review/27510/ 90acecc89a181014062ef559dc2001ec Comic Book News, Reviews Mayhem!
(Spoiler free-ish)

Synopsis

CRISIS ON CYBERTRON! A whole society, wounded and reeling after SCORPONOK’s genetic manipulations, teeters on the edge of anarchy and uprising, a situation SOUNDWAVE is only too happy to exploit! When the newly recovered BLASTER uncovers the truth, he finds himself on the endangered species list—courtesy of the all-new, all-deadly MAYHEM ATTACK SQUAD.

You know, these guys

Story

We left issue 91 with shattering revelations about everything ever in the universe in its totality and more. We've had Jhiaxus show up, we've had Grimlock die with Scorponok, we've had all sorts of chaos. So the set up looks pretty promising, but it has a lot to live up to.

So let's start with unrelated things, shall we?

The first storyline we encounter is a bit of an abrupt start: Optimus Prime being attacked by Spike Witwicky/Circuit Smasher, then he isn't, because he has something to say, but the humans don't like him anyway, but maybe they do, oh it's confusing, but maybe not. Anyway, let's skip to Cybertron, shall we?

Oooh, will they fight?

The second, however, is the one that takes up the focus of the entire issue, for once abandoning the multi-plot device for the length of the issue - though repercussions of other narratives are clearly at work here. This is the Nucleon-infused bots' time to shine, as something seems to keep affecting everyone in Cybertron. And Blaster is with no doubt the main player here.

And then there's these guys

As I mentioned, the focus on just one storyline gives it more time to work, but I'm no sure it does that much in any case. The issue at hand is resolved pretty quickly, and the Mayhem Attack Squad are disappointingly introduced for the sole purpose of a fight, it seems. Though I will not say anything as to how it resolves.

Art

This is Wildman's final issue on the series for now, and he has not confirmed whether he will be back or not before issue 100, or the rumoured issue 0. The artwork, inked by Baskerville, is the usual goodness, and by now we've come to recognise the style - it'll be interesting to see what Guidi will do with it. Some of the characters are really well done too, and Bludgeon has yet to be replaced as my top pick from Wildman's work.

He ain't half bad

I apologise for repeating myself every time, but I really do like (Bradley-)Bove's colours in this series, and I will pretty much always gush a little about them. Especially skies and backgrounds. In addition, there is a lot to be said for various aura-like details, such as Spike's glowing energy, the 'red mist' and Blaster's sonic er.. stuff.

Op op gadget Sky Lynx arms!

The artwork is good, as always, and the colours are still my favourite part of the series. It just makes everything looks so much prettier. Or darker. Or whatever it's supposed to look like, even in the midst of heavy action fights, such as in this issue. And the final page is stunning.

Thoughts
Spoilerish ahead

You might guess that I wasn't that much of a fan of this issue, again, and mostly because not that much happened. It felt very similar to the previous one, but without the kick at the end - though there is a minor, if a tad confusing, bringing-in-a-character-we-hadn't-seen-yet moment.

Oh, yeah, they're still doing stuff too

The artwork is as good as usual, and it is the saving point of an otherwise enjoyable but not crucial issue. It addresses the Nucleon issue, and furthers the Earth plot, brings in various spacecraft to Cybertron but seems to forget the revelations from 91. The action is quite nice though, and we get some interesting looks at some of the neglected characters this far.

out of

]]> <![CDATA[Pictorial Review: Transformers Generations Titan Class Metroplex with Scamper]]> Sat, 8 Jun 2013 20:32:00 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/pictorial-review-transformers-generations-titan-class-metroplex-with-scamper/27488/ 5f2f0694b1ab2bee2e5346b4f45a6fc8 Reviews, Toy News ChErikS of fellow Transformers fansite TFW2005 has managed to get a hold of the highly anticipated Transformers Generations Titan Class Metroplex with Scamper and posted a written review with images. A couple of interesting things to note, he comes packaged with his arms detached and a large sticker sheet. We've mirror a few of the images below, for the full review and more images click here.

Re: Transformers Generations Metroplex in hand images and "REVIEW"

]]> <![CDATA[Transformers ROBOTS IN DISGUISE Issue #18 - REVIEW and DISCUSSION]]> Tue, 4 Jun 2013 11:27:00 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/transformers-robots-in-disguise-issue-18-review-and-discussion/27449/ 933d4e493e1f2a56112ce14f373b067b Comic Book News, Reviews
This issue picks up a few minutes before the moment of exodus presented at the end of RID 16, when choices are still being made as to who wants to leave Iacon and who wants to go in the Autobot group. Bumblebee’s injuries from the huge battle are brought to the forefront, and as those who will not take off their Autobot badges (or Decepticon insignias) leave the city under guarded watch (seems a little hypocritical, no?) and start to travel to a new location, Bee’s injuries worsen...

Since the action all happened the last few issues, we see more of the ramifications of the Decepticon sack of Iacon amongst the jettisoned Autobot wagon train.

As the preview pages showed us, many Autobots are trying to figure out where and how they belong now, and what they are about. Prowl, Arcee, and Bumblebee seem to be the main focus because there are trust and or confidence issues in these three from most of the rest of the Autobot group, each of them having played some major part in the previous chaos and ultimately led to this unfortunate situation.

Of note in the story: We have Arcee trying to find out how to be an Autobot, and trying to fit in with a group that she clearly stands out from not only in appearance, but also because of her insane experience on Gorlam Prime with Jhiaxus, and as Jhiaxus’ experiment before that. Barber works hard to get across that Arcee is really struggling with being part of a group, and understanding the ‘sane’ real world and the social dynamics involved.

Prowl is dealing with being left out of the group--the group he is used to being in the inner circle of, the organizer of, and sometimes defacto leader of. Somewhat coerced into isolation by the rest of the Autobots in the camp because of an admission by Arcee about Prowl’s involvement with Ratbat’s death pre-cerebro shell, Prowl has seen his acceptance back in due to ‘Decepticon mind control excuse’ be cut short by Arcee’s inability to the tenuous relationship and acception. No doubt in his isolation Prowl is calculating how to regain acceptance, and yet coming to terms with all that he has experienced. As he tries to shed the previous horrors, there are those amongst the Autobots who are constant reminders of what happened, and his involvement.

Bumblebee failed to keep the peace in Iacon, and to lead the Autobots to victory. And in that failure he has lost the Autobots’ faith in him as a leader. They still need him and want him around, but as a leader they see him as incapable, it seems. While Bumblebee’s external injuries seem to be causing him the most discomfort at this time, it’s his inner angst and acceptance of his errors as a leader that has been most problematic. The external injuries catch up with the inner turmoil, and Bee takes a very bad turn for the worse.

I felt very uncomfortable at times reading this story. For example, it’s really hard to believe that the Autobots can easily accept the group in their midst that just basically destroyed Iacon, and the community that they had worked to establish--and by ‘the group’ I’m not talking about Arcee, Prowl, and Bumblebee--. In fact, the Autobots have made it a point to be very leery of Prowl and Arcee, but openly SEEM to accept their collaborators-- Decepticons--Decepticons who have killed or seriously wounded their Autobot comrades. Even the Dinobots are ready to just forgive and forget over energon shots. Really? I know Ironhide states he doesn’t trust them, I just hope it doesn’t turn into the Constructicons being repainted white and red. While I do believe the feelings toward Arcee and Prowl are warranted, and that the Autobots will be cautious with the Constructicons around, it seems odd. Sure the Bots can be compassionate, and maybe Ironhide is trying to avoid having ‘the craziness’ happen to the Constructicons and then they pull a Superion at night and beat on the Autobots. Maybe it’s a feeling of it’s better to know where they are and what they are doing rather than not know. And the Constructicons do seem to be being rather amicable with the Autobots, but it seems like a weird move right now. The Autobots are also suffering a casualty of command structure which can lead to poor decision making too. Such craziness.

There are a few more surprises left as the last two pages connect to events in RID #17. The Autobots will have to quickly pull back together some kind of order of command to face this newest occurence, but the issue as a whole, while promising, is a bit hard to read. The art is eye-catching, but in a distracting manner. It’s blocky, and simple, and shows a lot of human like emotion in expressions, but the images seem a step down from the level we are used to in RID. I love reading Transformers fiction, and I surely did find some enjoyment in this issue as characters’ personalities grew, but the crafting of the growth felt awkward. Clearly, I am no writer though, so I trust that the writers who get paid, know what they are doing. I did love the realization about Superion (I didn’t have it until that moment in this issue, and it is certainly a cool new Transformers story point about gestalts!).

All in all, a somewhat slow-it-down-issue, which was to be expected. It has a few surprises, but not many WOW moments this time. I'm hard on this book because I feel like it hasn't quite caught on as MTMTE has with its blend of story and art, but RID has potential, and continues to surprise at times in with some cool and unpredictable plot points. It's still enjoyable as a Transformers series even if it has to live under it's more popular sibling's shadow.

RID ONGOING #18 hits comic book retailers on Wednesday.]]> <![CDATA[Video Review: Transformers Generations Deluxe Class Trailcutter]]> Tue, 4 Jun 2013 00:15:00 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/video-review-transformers-generations-deluxe-class-trailcutter/27448/ 5e82cdcbabc031b4a5644157d16e128f Reviews, Toy News

optibotimus wrote:Enjoy guys!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N5bC_R9VbVw

Preorder yours at site sponsor BBTS!!
Generations 2013 Series 03 - Set of 4 - Transformers 2010 - 2013 Transformers Generations - Deluxe

Trailcutter is expected to be released sometime this summer. Can't wait to get the figure, gotta know more? Check out the review, feel free to join the discussion and give us your thoughts and comments.

Keep your optics tuned to Seibertron.com for the latest in news and updates, and the best galleries around!]]> <![CDATA[Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye Ongoing #17 Review]]> Wed, 29 May 2013 16:22:00 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/transformers-more-than-meets-the-eye-ongoing-17-review/27404/ adb5abfa1bc661705efe99f70c369d6c Comic Book News, Reviews Supreme Convoy we have a review of IDW Publishing's Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye Ongoing #17. Check out his review below:

Supreme Convoy wrote:Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye #17 written by James Roberts and art by Alex Milne.

Due to the radiation exposure on Cybertron, Tailgate’s spark is “giving up” and has three days to live. Rodimus and the Lost Light crew discover Luna 1, the Miracle Moon. Rodimus takes leads a group to explore the surface, including Rung, Perceptor, Brainstorm, Chromedome, Ratchet and Cyclonus. The surface of the moon is home to a billion unborn sparks as well as an ancient group of Decepticons led by Dominus Ambus. At the end, Ratchet encounters a surprise character that MTMTE readers should be very familiar with.

MTMTE’s writer James Roberts is channeling Chris Claremont’s X-Men comics with a series of ongoing subplots and revelations. Since the beginning of the run, Roberts offers many questions for the readers and reveals them over time. In this issue, Skids encounters mysterious robots chanting “Nineteen Eighty Four.” Readers should be familiar with the significance of the number in Transformers history but how does it fit into the story? We’ll find out in future issues.

Alex Milne’s art continues to be incredible. It’s a great balance of Nick Roche’s cartoony and Don Figueroa’s hyper detailed look.

I highly recommend this issue!

]]> <![CDATA[Transformers Prime: Beast Hunters #1 Review]]> Wed, 29 May 2013 16:02:00 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/transformers-prime-beast-hunters-1-review/27403/ a554a80060e7d223fbdb6a0bf76387d5 Comic Book News, Reviews Supreme Convoy has been kind enough to provide us with a review of IDW Publishing's Transformers Prime: Beast Hunters Issue #1. Enjoy his review found below:

Supreme Convoy wrote:Transformers: Prime – Beast Hunters #1 is a follow up to the Rage of the Dinobots mini-series and set before the events of Transformers: Prime.

Sludge encounters Firestar who is being attacked by Insecticons. After the attack, Firestar reveals to Grimlock that the Last Spark city is under attack by the Insecticons and needs help. Grimlock remembers the previous encounter with Airwave and refuses to help. Sludge feels that it’s wrong to leave the city in dire need and decides to help along with the Snarl’s aid, they search for the Insecticons lair.

The Rage of the Dinobots creative team of writers Mairghread Scott and Mike Johnson with art by Agustin Padilla return for this mini-series. It’s a strong first issue. I enjoy the fact that this issue isn’t Grimlock centric and gives a spotlight on Sludge and Snarl. Though I’m sure Grimlock will play a major role towards the end of this story. I had to look up Airwave who was a Decepticon Micromaster. I thought it was an interesting choice to have lead this group of survivors.

Agustin Padilla’s style doesn’t quite fit in the Prime universe look but he draws great robots and dinosaurs. I like the way he draws these characters and hope he does more Transformers after the mini-series is over.

Overall, I enjoyed this issue. I’m a big fan of “last stand” stories so I can’t wait to see how the Dinobots get out of this situation.

]]> <![CDATA[Video Review: Platinum Edition Ultra Magnus]]> Tue, 28 May 2013 13:09:00 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/video-review-platinum-edition-ultra-magnus/27389/ 0aa35015d27487c1c750626347122aeb Reviews, Toy News Transformermegazord has uploaded his review of the Platinum Edition Ultra Magnus figure. The figure is a redeco/retool of the Transformers Prime Robots in Disguise Weaponizer Class Optimus Prime with a massive Forge of Solus Prime accessory. Check out his review embedded below:

]]> <![CDATA[Video Review: Transformers Prime Beast Hunters Ultimate Class Beast Fire Predaking]]> Thu, 23 May 2013 20:39:00 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/video-review-transformers-prime-beast-hunters-ultimate-class-beast-fire-predaking/27361/ d0e8dfe88c1afc29365ea9740ed7b8ee Reviews, Toy News KalEl has uploaded his review of Transformers Prime Beast Hunters Ultimate Class Beast Fire Predaking. Check out his review below:

Big Bad Dragon! A very cool version of Predaking from transformers beast hunters. Fantastic size and fun play pattern.
The weakest part of predaking is the lack of articulation in the dragon head and/or lack or a locking mechanism, Otherwise articulation is beast mode is fine. With a massive wingspan he is quite imposing.

Predaking has some really nice paint apps (see his thighs) but a lot of lacking areas too. Many moulded details are lost due to lack of paint.The budget has gone the the wings with I suppose is a required evil. He also has a bunch of cybertronian runes scattered all over him which is a really nice touch.

Articulation and robot mode is fairly good and mostly kibble free.

I do recommend this figure as the beast Predaking mold out at the moment.

]]> <![CDATA[Prelude to Dark Energon- Review of Transformers Robots in Disguise #17-Shockwave--It's...shocking!]]> Tue, 21 May 2013 21:54:00 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/prelude-to-dark-energon-review-of-transformers-robots-in-disguise-17shockwaveitsshocking/27347/ c2a72c9d56c290965f265f3a677704ba Comic Book News, Reviews

Where had he gone, and for what purpose might he have gone there? This issue reveals ‘some’ as we learn more of the frightening history of one of the baddest cons to bear the pointy-eared badge. The prelude to DARK CYBERTRON is here!

I’m going to make this short. Succinct. I believe that each of you who are loyal readers of RID and probably the sister series, More Than Meets The Eye, deserve to read this without having much, if anything, given away.

And for those who gave RID a chance, and based on the wrap up of recent events last issue, decided that you may just be giving it up because it’s not ‘your cup of tea’, well, if you don’t get this issue, you’ve picked the wrong place to stop. Do yourself a favor, and continue at least through this issue.

This story connects to many events and people that have been a piece of IDW G1 all the way back to INFILTRATION and up until the most recent issues of MTMTE and RID. It continues to explain events that happened to Shockwave as ‘Shadowplay’ concluded, and builds more of his history prior to this huge event, and after, and what you find out about the big, purple, cannon-armed robot is sure to surprise, and I believe, not disappoint you. Jhiaxus, Crystal City, combination, empurata, Dai Atlas, synthetic energons, and a corrupt Senate, all get a cycloptic soliloquy (with some totally unnecessary dialogue from others) and it’s pretty amazing all that one robot sees when his vision becomes ‘impaired’ and his prior tendencies get deleted and replaced.

The art is by Livio Ramondelli, infamous for his very recognizable style, and would be in my opinion, the biggest drawback of the issue. While it serves the purpose for storytelling, the difficulties that Livio’s Transformer critics have pointed out are once again on display here. A very beautiful 1/2 page panel can be followed by a very muddled, unclear smaller panel. Livio seems to have earned himself a solid position on the IDW Transformers starting team, and as such, I think he is gaining more and more fans, as they appreciate his take on Transformers, much in the way that these fans appreciated the work of Don Figueroa, Pat Lee, Guido Guidi, Andrew Wildman, Dan Khanna, and Jae Lee as they all took a turn at interpreting the Autobot and Decepticon war. Livio really does a fantastic job at times as referenced on the panel below, where once again current creators pay homage to those that paved the way. But at other times, well, perhaps you feel a little visually challenged like I do.

Still the art supports the story well enough though that you will certainly find enjoyment in reading about how scissor-like digits became a laser cannon of destruction.

Don't miss one of the most fascinating character transformations in Transformers history. This book is a necessary purchase for a story that has been a long time coming and only barely begun!

]]> <![CDATA[Video and Pictorial Review: Transformers Prime Beast Hunters Ultimate Class Beast Hunter Optimus Prime]]> Sat, 18 May 2013 11:53:00 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/video-and-pictorial-review-transformers-prime-beast-hunters-ultimate-class-beast-hunter-optimus-prime/27324/ 37b625cec4adc260e5b6def02abb4a0b Reviews, Toy News KalEl dropped by the old Energon Pub with a review of Transformers Prime Beast Hunters Ultimate Class Hunter Optimus Prime. This figure and his wave-mate Beast Fire Predaking were recently released in Australia. Hopefully we'll be seeing them pop up domestically soon. Enjoy his video and images found below.

Video Review of Beast Hunters Ultimate Optimus Prime.

He is one big super robot looking Optimus Prime! Anyone that loved Galaxy Convoy (cybertron Optimus prime) will love this guy! With the basic robot design blown up from the voyager mold, this optimus has a great base.
The 5 dragon head rotary missile gimmick has a great play pattern and can be a lot of fun. It would have been great if the gimmick was removable as it needs to plug in to work in robot mode anyway. But not a must. The gimmick makes the toy a little back heavy but once you play with it a bit, you will figure the best ways to pose.

The weapons are fun, the shield being a stylized dragon head is a very nice touch. The sword/giant clever is very cool also. Both have a great design but lack basic paint applications which is a real shame. Though a easy fix for anyone that can do basic painting and washes.

This Optimus is a fun figure with plenty of play value and great 'super robot' posing options for the collectors.
Pick it up if you get it for the right price.

Full Gallery Here: CLICK http://kalelreviews.wordpress.com/2013/ ... d-gallery/

]]> <![CDATA[Retrospective Reviews - Transformers Spotlight: Bumblebee]]> Thu, 16 May 2013 07:11:36 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/retrospective-reviews-transformers-spotlight-bumblebee/27310/ cbd734682ec1ea12202c8f75e2091ae7 Comic Book News, Reviews Sbotblight: Bubmblebee(b)
(Spoiler free-ish)

With this week's reveal of the official images of Generations Hoist and Thundercracker, it's time to complete the reviews for the Spotlight series, which now seems to have concluded as far as we know. Read the others so far: Orion Pax, Megatron, Thundercracker, Trailcutter and Hoist.

And now, the missing link - Spotlight: Bumblebee!

Synopsis

ESCAPE FROM EARTH! Before Cybertron was reborn—BUMBLEBEE lead the Autobots on Earth. In this untold tale, he must take the reigns of command… and he’s got hundreds of rogue Decepticons standing between him and respect!

Ha! "Standing"! Get it?

Story

Sliding between Spotlight: Megatron and Trailcutter, arguably the best issues to come out of this run, Bumblebee suffers a lot from the comparison. And it takes place during a moment in the IDW continuity that a lot of readers had issues with - Police Action. So I wasn't expecting much.

No, it isn't

Admittedly, the comic patches up another smaller gap in the continuity of the Costa run, and we know, by now, that Barber adores patching things up. The story itself, however, does not add that much to the characters, main or secondary. Prowl, for example, suffers some flips (and not of the table kind).

Sure, 'cause you loved *him*

Even the Metroplex/Metrotitan plot is only casually name-dropped, and there's an ..er.. explanation for those who missed the Megatron and Thundercracker ones. But very rushed, and didn't feel that necessary at all.

Aaand that's it

As I said, this issue is not the most brilliant, and it rehashes the Bumblebee/Hot Rod trope of 'What would Prime do?' for the umpteenth time. Without the very final page, it would have stood as a valid start to the attrition between Prowl and Bumblebee too, but..

Art

Again, the Spotlights are a means for lesser know artists to showcase their talent, and when I saw the preview, I didn't mind the almost ligne claire approach by David Daza. As the story progresses, though, the art loses definition and detail, at times being vague outlines of characters, if that.

Not really sure what I'm looking at here

The colours aren't bad, though, and Zac Atkinson does seem to try adding some recognisable schemes to the blotchier figures, though the result is still not satisfying, or reedeming enough for the artwork to shine. Nothin wrong to say about the lettering, but nothing that really stands out, either.

Point in case: Blue-ltra Magnus

The artwork, including colouring and lettering, is definitely off to an interesting start, and then seems to lose its way with panels progressing. It would have been nice to see another take on the Stunticons, and Earth-modes in general. The lighting, and there's a lot of strange sources, could have improved the general art too, but didn't work that well either.

Thoughts
Spoilerish ahead

I almost feel disappointed, as I thought Bumblebee could do with more characterisation. It was interesting to see his Earth mode again, though, and his interactions with Thundercracker, but the whole story felt superfluous. Just some more Barber continuity patching, with little more to show for it.

My thoughts precisely. The shrugging, I mean.

So yeah, not the gem of the bunch, not adding much, not subtracting that much either, except for the Prowl moment at the end. I am really not happy nor convinced about that, especially after all the Robots in Disguise work on him (or even the Police Action one, for that matter!). But I suppose it is just an in-pack comic, shoehorned into the continuity.

½ out of

]]> <![CDATA[Retrospective Reviews - Transformers Spotlight: Thundercracker]]> Wed, 15 May 2013 13:47:31 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/retrospective-reviews-transformers-spotlight-thundercracker/27304/ c97bb221a965637ea25037d5ad3a5a01 Comic Book News, Reviews THA-BOOM
(Spoiler free-ish)

With this week's reveal of the official images of Generations Hoist and Thundercracker, it's time to complete the reviews for the Spotlight series, which now seems to have concluded as far as we know. Read the others so far: Orion Pax, Megatron and Trailcutter and Hoist.

Time for Spotlight: Thundercracker!

Synopsis

In the dark days of the war for Cybertron, THUNDERCRACKER had a special mission—one never revealed before! Now, as he faces off against BUMBLEBEE for the first time, the fate of METROPLEX—and an entire civilization — is at stake!

The first of many THA-BOOMs

Story

Like Orion Pax, this issue takes place before Transformers: Autocracy and, in fact, after the previous Spotlight issue too. It carries on the Metroplex, and later Metrotitans plot, while focusing on everyone's favourite reluctant Seeker(?).

And Waspinator!

The story does continue and pick up previous threads quite nicely, but there are some elements that just don't feel right. Why does he keep information to himself? Does it really follow directly from him not being a fully-convinced Decepticon? How does it advantage his own goals - if he has any?

What indeed

The events in the issue do involve combat, and we're again introduced to Bumblebee (and some other 'Bots), the next Spotlight feature. But it all seems so rushed, and the Metroplex plot is resolved extremely quickly, deciding to focus on the planet's inhabitants instead.

And they ain't pretty

I'm glad that the Metrotitan plot is developed further, and we get some insight into the powers and abilities of the big 'uns. The protagonist's characterisation, while interesting is a bit.. I actually can't think of the right words. Wait for the Thoughts section, below.

Art

I really don't mind Chee's work on this issue! I think there are some really good pages and detailing, even though the perspective is not always consistent with all the characters. The protagonist himself has some chin-length issues, and I'm still a bit confused about the alt-mode: the robot seems to be based on the upcoming toy (FoC mold) but the jet really isn't. Artistic license?

Another!

Ronda Pattinson's colours are a very nice touch, too, and work really well between background and foreground, and there's a lot of space to colour outside of ships, around planets and you know, space, up there. Shawn Lee's lettering is nice, and creators always seem to enjoy playing with Thundercracker's signature soundword: THA-BOOM.

See? Nice contrast

Overall, the artwork does present some minor faults, but nothing that distracted me from the story. The idea for the Spotlights is a good one, as new artistic teams can showcase their talent and abilities to different audiences, and this one, to me, delivers.

Thoughts
Spoilerish ahead

The story isn't bad, but I kept having the feeling that something was missing, constantly. It was a nice way for Barber to blend different plots, but not enough time was given to either as a result, unfortunately. And like Thundercracker, I'm not really sure what I come away with.

Er.. ok

If you haven't read this issue yet, it's not that much of a problem. It pads in some stuff for what is hopefully to come, gives some information on the Metrotitans and Metroplex, kind of rounds off Thundercracker, and then just leaves it there. Shame really.

out of

]]> <![CDATA[Video Review: Kre-O Micro Changers Wave 2]]> Sat, 11 May 2013 11:08:00 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/video-review-kreo-micro-changers-wave-2/27276/ 5b077515f793aed2a46e2c03ff92789a Reviews, Toy News mitchsantona has posted a video review of the recently released Kre-O Micro Changers Wave 2. This wave features:

66 = Bulkhead
67 = Hardshell
68 = Blight (aka Blot)
69 = Arcee
70 = Acidwing
71 = Vehicon (or steve)
72 = Scourge
73 = Powerglide
74 = Perceptor
75 = Lugnut
76 = Hoist
77 = Groove

]]> <![CDATA[Transformers: Regeneration One #91 Review]]> Tue, 7 May 2013 13:15:40 EDT http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/transformers-regeneration-one-91-review/27244/ 7ef9fcdc78f991449af2e729e04e80f4 Comic Book News, Reviews The Big Re-Cap
(Spoiler free-ish)

NOTE: This issue may or may not be available this week. IDW has it scheduled for this Wednesday, but most distributors list the next as its release date. Here at Seibertron.com we receive our information directly from IDW, and follow their release guidelines, which is why the review is available today.

Synopsis

THINGS FALL APART! The very fabric of the TRANSFORMERS’ universe begins to unravel, as huge and ancient cosmic forces take note of CYBERTRON’s (and the CYBERTRONIANS’) descent into chaos and anarchy. As HOT ROD struggles to hold things together, still reeling from his own game-changing wake-up call, competing destructive forces inch closer to a cataclysmic confrontation. The end begins here.

Dealing with the aftermath

Story

So, Scorponok's gone, Grimlock with him, Megatron's gone, Galvatron's back, Optimus is on Earth worried. Hot Rod is on Cybertron, worried. A lot of bots are also worried, about Hot Rod and Cybertron, but don't worry, there's still ten issues to go.

Worried Hot Rod is worried

As usual, there are several plotlines running through, and Hot Rod's this time is the major one: he has to deal with the revelations from the basement, the new angry Cybertronian population, who may not be Decepticons any longer, but have apparently tapped into other emotions. And that is bad (?).

Angry mob is angry

At the same time, Optimus is concerned about having seen Galvatron flying off towards Cybertron (because, other than Nebulos, there are no other planets in the universe apparently), but can't really do much. And elsewhere Soundwave and Bludgeon are up to no good, preparing the usual ultimate machines of final destruction

Scheming 'Cons are.. oh, you get it

You may have noticed my tone so far, and I'm not too impressed. It all feels like a big recap, a lot of exposition and setting up what is going to happen. And admittedly, it looks like it's going to be big. Especially with the final pages, which are a massive kick. More about that below.

Art

Wildman and Baskerville work their usual stuff, and there's nothing too off this time, either. Hot Rod is understandably troubled, and his expressions show it perfectly. There are some nice parallels between Bludgeon and Galvatron, and some of the flashbacks with Cybertron are stunningly detailed.

I can see my house from here!

All is made even more pleasing to the eye by Bove's magic colours, once again helped out by Stayte. There's a lot of conversations happening in space and in open spaces, and the skies are gorgeous. Mowry on letters does a good job as always, but nothing particularly exciting.