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IDW Publishing has shared a planned schedule for their various comic releases throughout the summer. As most of our readers are aware, shipments of new comic books stopped in late March due to world events, but have resumed as of last week. So far, none of the delayed Transformers comics set for late March, April or May release have made it out, but IDW has released a plan for when readers should expect these books. While it can possibly be assumed many of these are printed and waiting in a warehouse somewhere, we would also caution readers to expect that the schedule we've copied below could be subject to frequent changes with little-to-no notice, so be sure to check with your local comic shop before heading out on Wednesdays for the next few months if you have doubts about what's available.
IDW Reveals Comic Book Direct Market Publishing Schedule for Summer 2020
SAN DIEGO, CA (May 26, 2020) – IDW Publishing (OTCQX: IDWM), the award-winning publisher of comic books and graphic novels, is thrilled to announce its revised Direct Market release schedule for Summer 2020. With world-renowned brands like Sonic The Hedgehog and Transformers, groundbreaking original series like Usagi Yojimbo and Sleeping Beauties, acclaimed celebrations of the comics medium like Dave Cockrum’s X-Men Artifact Edition and Parker: The Martini Edition - Last Call, and everything in-between, IDW is perfectly poised to bring readers the summertime thrills they’ve been longing for -- all available from your friendly neighborhood comic shops!
“It’s been a crazy time for everybody,” says John Barber, Editor in Chief at IDW. “I’m really excited about finally bringing people the thing that brings us together: comics and books. There’s a really wide range of comics and graphic novels coming from IDW this summer — some you’ve probably been waiting for, and some that are new surprises. For me, the real magic is that there are stories here for everyone, from every walk of life.”
Chris Ryall, IDW’s President, Publisher, and CCO, says, “We’ve all been waiting -- fans, retailers, and our staff alike -- fervently and sometimes with a bit of understandable restlessness. Our thanks go out to all of you for letting us continue to make, ship, and sell comics to you. None of us take that opportunity for granted – and we will all continue to strive to make any purchase you make worth your time and your money.”
Transformers Comic Book Summer 2020 Release Schedule
June 17
Transformers #20
Transformers: The IDW Collection – Phase 2 Vol. 11 Hardcover
June 24
Transformers vs. The Terminator #2 (of 4)
July 8
Transformers: Galaxies #7
July 15
Transformers ‘84: Secrets & Lies #1 (of 4)
Simon Furman returns! Accompanied by the equally accomplished Guido Guidi and John-Paul Bove, the beloved writer tells a new tale in the original Transformers comic universe, hot off the heels of the successful Transformers ’84 #0 one-shot! As the Cybertronian Civil War rages, Decepticon scientist Shockwave has encountered a new obstacle to the Decepticon’s victory and subjugation of the planet: an obstacle called Megatron!
July 22
My Little Pony / Transformers #1 (of 4)
When Queen Chrysalis casts a spell looking for more changelings, she accidentally interferes with a malfunctioning Spacebridge! What’s this mean for our favorite fillies? There are suddenly a bunch of Autobots and Decepticons in Equestria! And as the dust settles, Rarity and Arcee find themselves teaming up against a hostile Decepticon force…
Transformers #21
August 12
My Little Pony / Transformers #2 (of 4)
Transformers #22
Transformers: Galaxies #8
August 19
Transformers ’84: Secrets and Lies #2 (of 4)
Transformers vs. The Terminator #3 (of 4)
August 26
Transformers: Galaxies #9
Transformers Vol. 2: Change in Their Nature Hardcover
I liked this issue. It is actually my favourite issue of the ones I have reviewed for the site. Of course that doesn't mean much, all I needed was an issue with less stairs and talking. And funny enough, I don't recall any prominent stairs here, instead it was more star wars type walkways and ramps. Now that i think of it, for a species that turns into cars, don't ramps make more sense than stairs? Why even have stairs? Eh, moving on.
This issue feels like a breath of fresh air compared to previous ones in the sense that it feels more like a spotlight issue. There is definitely still some world building, like the logic behind new bots being created, but no one is sitting around talking about it. Instead we see it through actions and other fun interactions. While she isn't spotlit on this issue's two main covers, the spotlight is really on Arcee. I do like how the idea of her being a hardened warrior is kept from the previous continuity, without being too world weary either. And we get more Greenlight here than we've ever gotten in G1 so hurray for that too.
It is a very simple story, just getting from point A to point B while kicking ass and taking names, ala Escape from New York, which works very well for these other characters born of the 80s. I did like the action, it was very well framed by the artists, though I did wonder the effectiveness of some moves. There is a really prominent shot of an antagonist throwing energon cubes at Arcee and you get the sense that he is skilled at this, but the next shot is just them bumping off her like they were empty cardboard boxes. It would have been more impressive to see her dodge them acrobatically, unless I was supposed to know that Arcee now has wonder woman gauntlets. It just felt a tad underwhelming after the emphasis on the battle.
Speaking of the artists, this issue had 2, Bethany McGuire-Smith and Umi Miyao, and I felt both their styles worked well with this issue. The change in artist never felt jarring, I wouldn't even have known if I wasn't told. It is of course helped a lot by Josh Burcham being the only colourist on this issue and giving it a very even feel. The art itself was fine, a bit reminiscent of Nick Roche (especially when coloured by Josh Burcham) but I did have some issue with the faces. Arcee especially is given a Jay leno chin and there are some shots in the issue where her Lea bunns helmet is cut off from the frame and it was not obvious it was her. Also, I never thought of Transformers sweating, but the artists give it a shot in this issue and it instead comes off as Arcee having a bad case of acnee.
The covers available feature Umi Miyao as the main cover artist and Beth Mcguire-Smith as the artist for cover B. I will say none really do it for me, especially the main cover where I couldn't even tell that was Greenlight. My favourite cover of the bunch is Kei Zama's retailer incentive which looks incredible, and does have Arcee in the spotlight. Regardless of my personal tastes, I do find it incredible that we all these covers are by talented women. It's a nice touch for international women's day, whether intentional or not, and it's nice to highlight diversity in this field which has been dominated by men since inception.
As always, you can also find images of all of the book's covers along with full credits for the issue in our Vector Sigma Database page for Transformers #18.
Verdict
Straight and to the point, just like I like em. Nothing too fancy, but it hit the spot for some Transformers fiction and I definitely wouldn't mind reading more from these characters, which is something I thought I would never say about this series.
For many years, the Transformers G1 Manga from Japan eluded Transformers fans. It was once the stuff of much desire and wild speculation. Around October 2002, Million Publishing (currently known as Hero-X), publishers of the popular Transformers Generations series of books, released the first ever compilation of the Generation One manga alongside a Lucky Draw Black Tracks. The manga compilation was titled "Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: The Comics".
This amazing book came into my personal collection courtesy of a purchase I made at OTFCC 2003. Within its many pages were some of the most incredible artwork of the Autobots and Decepticons drawn in such a unique style for someone used to the styles of the Marvel Transformers comic books and the original Sunbow Transformers cartoons. I have enjoyed looking at the beautiful renditions of the Transformers characters who were drawn in a familiar manga or anime style by the very talented Ban Magami, yet very distinct from other popular artistic renderings to which most Hasbro-market Transformers fans are accustomed.
However, as sensational as the images of our favorite "robots in disguise" were to my eyes and my imagination, I had no damn idea what the heck was happening in the book. Well, other than what was actually shown, and even then it was sometimes challenging to understand what I was looking at due to the small black and white artwork. Needless to say, as much as I enjoyed looking at the back initially, it has spent the better part of the last 16 or so years in storage alongside my original Marvel Transformers comics and my prized (embarrassingly) KISS Players Manga collection.
Fast forward to March 11th, 2020. This is the day that Transformers: The Manga Volume 1 from Viz Media will be released at book and comic book stores nationwide. Special thanks to Viz Media for providing a sample copy of this book to Seibertron.com for review purposes. What makes this version unique, is that Masumi Kaneda's stories would finally be translated to English at very long last. After so much time, the stories of the Transformers G1 manga would at last be known to Transformers fans outside of Japan.
The book's presentation is top notch. It is a great addition to the collections of those who appreciate Transformers Generation 1 fiction in all of its forms, as well as the collections of those who collect Manga. As exhilarating as Magami's artwork can be to those of us who can't get enough of this style, the stories were slightly more juvenile than for which I was hoping (though highly suspected) after years of looking over these manga pages from the previous compilation.
However, I understand that this manga was intended for kids, as were the Marvel Transformers comics that have such a special place in my heart despite their many flaws. Despite the story's simplicity, I enjoyed the desired nostalgic rush as I plowed effortlessly through this book. Page after page, I sucked in as much eye candy as possible, which seemed to hit so many of the right spots, while finally being able to understand what was happening in the artwork which had been the stuff of wonder for so long.
Surprisingly, Abby Lark's translations were pretty spot on. To be honest, I was expecting various flaws, misspellings, incorrect character names or factions or other problems that are unfortunately common with Transformers translations. However, that wasn't to be the case with this book. Lark seemed to know her Transformers very well. The subgroups and characters were all appropriately named and the translations were all sensical. There were few, if any, errors. I was pleasantly surprised by this and truly appreciated the amount of time and effort it took to get all of these things right. The translations used in this book for Convoy, Bumble, Metroflex, Cybertrons, Destrons, etc, are the more well-known American names such as Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, Metroplex, Autobots and Decepticons respectively. This might bother some fans but is perfectly acceptable to most. It will be interesting to see how the translations are handled in Volume 2's Masterforce manga for various characters like Super Ginrai versus Powermaster Optimus Prime.
The last 74 pages of the page are dedicated to bringing some additional artwork into an "Illustration Works" gallery for your viewing pleasure. Many images within this gallery include promotional images for various episodes of the Fight Super Robot Lifeform Transformers cartoon through 2010 and the Headmasters series. In addition to this promotional artwork, there are some very detailed drawings of the alt modes for some characters like Jazz, Starscream, Wheelie, Springer, Arcee, Blurr, Scourge, and others. It is a very nice addition that I don't think was available in the original Japanese compilation (at least, not at this printed size) if I recall correctly.
While not as large as the original Japanese version from Million Publishing, it is only volume 1 out of 3 volumes. Volume 2 will be released later in May 2020 and should contain the remaining Headmasters stories along with the Masterforce. Volume 3 will be released later this year which will contain Victory, Zone, and Battle Star stories (Sidenote: who wants a Super Megatron toy after all of these years???). With a $24.99 cover price per book, it still costs less for all 3 volumes from Viz Media than the $80 I spent for the original Japanese compilation at OTFCC 2003 (not to mention inflation), which makes these books from Viz an absolute steal in my opinion, especially with the nice hard covers.
In addition to traditional brick-and-mortar stores, you'll be able to find Viz Media's Transformers: The Manga Volume 1 at various online outlets such as Amazon.com and the Seibertron Store. Transformers: The Manga Volume 2 through is currently available for pre-order through Amazon.com.
Transformers: The Manga's long sought after story is written by Masumi Kaneda, brought to life with artwork by the very talented Ban Magami, and made readable for those of us who can't read Japanese courtesy of Abby Lark, whose translations were seamlessly lettered and retouched into the original artwork by Brandon Bovia.
I would recommend this book for those of you who enjoy a nostalgic tug from the past and for those of you who enjoy Transformers Generation 1 fiction. If you're a die-hard Michael Bay Transformers Movie buff or only like comics with "deeper" meaning like some of the Transformers comics from IDW, than this might not be for you. If you can enjoy some of the lighter Transformers content intended for kids or just like awesome pics of cool lookin' Japanese styled robots, than this book is absolutely for you.
As for my rating? Well, by Primus, I am extremely biased and enjoy every page. It was a lot of fun to read through this book. I give it a loud and proud 4.5 Rodimus stars out of 5!
Thanks to IDW Publishing, we have the full 5-page preview for tomorrow's new issue of IDW Transformers. The new issue sort of picks up after the events of issue #17, showing us a ground view look at the final page tease from the last issue, and will feature the couple of Arcee and Greenlight, and their young mentee charge, Gauge. We get a nice look at how Cybertron is dealing with the current events, and we also see that Gauge has a bit of an uphill battle ahead of her.
The issue is due out tomorrow and will be available for $3.99. Check out the preview below, and let us know what you think in the comments section below!
Our friends at IDW Publishing have distributed solicitation information for Transformers comics due out in May of this year (or later) and it looks to be a very busy month heading our way. A heavy dose of ponies, as expected due to earlier news that the limited series would be weekly, is accompanied by the latest chapter of the other limited crossover series Transformers vs The Terminator. Alongside that are the next installments of Transformers, Transformers: Galaxies and Transformers '84: Secrets and Lies with an unexpected appearance on at least one cover. Check out the information and some of the available covers below, though note many of them are 10-copy retailer incentive covers, meaning your local shop can only order one copy of that particular cover per 10 copies of the normal covers that they order.
Also be sure to keep reading past the Transformers solicitations for the trade paperback of the technically-not-but-pretty-much-is-in-the-old-Hasbro-Universe Rom: Dire Wraiths series, as well as a fascinating collector's item for fans of the classic Marvel Micronauts comic, initially licensed and made to support the Western release of some of the Microman toyline in 1979.
Transformers #21—Cover A: Casey W. Coller
Brian Ruckley (w) • Anna Malkova (a) • Casey W. Coller (c)
“Rise of the Decepticons” continues! There are certain members of the Rise that if captured by Security Operations, would be bad news for both sides. When a convoy of them are being moved from one secret base to another, the only thing that could set them off track is a massive groundquake... which means the geologic survey team looking into Cybertron’s recent seismic events is about to be outgunned and outmatched.
FC • 32 pages • $3.99
Transformers #21—Cover B: E.J. Su
Brian Ruckley (w) • Anna Malkova (a) • E.J. Su (c)
FC • 32 pages • $3.99
Transformers ‘84: Secrets and Lies #2 (of 4)—Cover A: Guido Guidi
Simon Furman (w) • Guido Guidi (a & c)
The time has come for the Autobots’ Ark to launch—their goal: to save Cybertron from an imminent asteroid belt and the maniacal mayhem of Megatron. The Decepticon warship, the Nemesis, falls into the Autobot trap, following the heroes into the void. But... when the Ark crashed to Earth, the Nemesis did not. What skeleton crew remained and what was their business on the strange alien world below? A gripping new tale about the secret history of the original Transformers comic universe, by the fantastic team of Simon Furman, Guido Guidi, and John-Paul Bove!
FC • 32 pages • $3.99
Transformers Galaxies #9—Cover A: Umi Miyao
Sam Maggs (w) • Bethany McGuire-Smith (a) • Umi Miyao ( c)
“Gauging the Truth,” Part Three! The Reversionists have a plan, a way to bring their world closer to purity and Primus. Arcee and Greenlight have a plan, to save the world from the Reversionist plan since it seems pretty drastic. Gauge has a decision to make: which side does she help?
FC • 32 pages • $3.99
Pictured is the 10-copy retailer incentive cover by Kei Zama
FRIENDSHIP IN DISGUISE
Magical mayhem and mishaps ensue for the ponies and Autobots when Equestria and Cybertron collide!
My Little Pony/Transformers #1 (of 4)—GEM
James Asmus, Ian Flynn (w) • Tony Fleecs, Jack Lawrence (a) • Tony Fleecs (c)
When Queen Chrysalis casts a spell looking for more changelings, she accidentally interferes with a malfunctioning Spacebridge! What’s this mean for our favorite fillies? There are suddenly a bunch of Autobots and Decepticons in Equestria! And as the dust settles, Rarity and Arcee find themselves teaming up against a hostile Decepticon force...
FC • 32 pages • $3.99
Pictured above is the 10-copy retailer incentive cover by Jack Lawrence
My Little Pony/Transformers #2 (of 4)—GEM
Ian Flynn, Sam Maggs (w) • Sara Pitre-Durocher, Casey W. Coller (a) • Tony Fleecs (c)
It’s Spike and Grimlock’s time to shine as they take on the Constructicons! Meanwhile, Pinkie Pie is determined to share as much knowledge about Equestrian and Cybertronian cuisine as possible with her new friends... which is why she invites Gauge to her kitchen for a live baking show! But things get a bit too spicy when Shockwave shows up.
FC • 32 pages • $3.99
Pictured is the 10-copy retailer incentive cover by Casey W. Coller
My Little Pony/Transformers #3 (of 4)—GEM
James Asmus, Sam Maggs (w) • Jack Lawrence, Priscilla Tramontano (a) • Tony Fleecs (c)
When Fluttershy and Discord’s tea time is interrupted by Soundwave, it’s robot logic vs. whimsical chaos! And Rainbow Dash, sure that she can fly faster than any Autobot can drive, finds herself in a race with the one and only Windblade—let’s just hope the Decepticons don’t make things too dangerous.
FC • 32 pages • $3.99
Pictured is the 10-copy retailer incentive cover by Priscilla Tramontano
My Little Pony/Transformers #4 (of 4)—GEM
Ian Flynn, James Asmus (w) • Sara Pitre-Durocher, Tony Fleecs (a) • Tony Fleecs (c)
When the Insecticons descend upon Sweet Apple Acres and begin devouring the Apple family’s crop, it’s up to Apple Jack and her family to rally to save the farm! Meanwhile, Optimus Prime and Twilight Sparkle finally band together the ponies and the Autobots to get things back to normal. The finale you’ve been waiting for is here!
FC • 32 pages • $3.99
Pictured is the 10-copy retailer incentive cover by Sara Pitre-Durocher
Transformers vs The Terminator #3 (of 4)—Cover A: Gavin Fullerton
David Mariotte, John Barber, & Tom Waltz (w) • Alex Milne (a) • Gavin Fullerton (c)
The T-800’s mission is simple: Exterminate the Cybertronians and ensure the future belongs to SKYNET. When Optimus Prime offers his aid, suggesting they go after Megatron together, the T-800 faces his toughest decision yet. Is the enemy of his enemy his friend, or just another threat to the mission?
FC • 32 pages • $3.99
Transformers vs The Terminator #3 (of 4)—Cover B: Andrew Griffith
David Mariotte, John Barber, & Tom Waltz (w) • Alex Milne (a) • Andrew Griffith (c)
Transformers vs The Terminator #3 (of 4)—Variant Cover: Freddie E. Williams II
David Mariotte, John Barber, & Tom Waltz (w) • Alex Milne (a) • Freddie E. Williams II (c)
Rom: Dire Wraiths—SPOTLIGHT
Chris Ryall (w) • Luca Pizzari, Guy Dorian, Sr., Sal Buscema, Ron Joseph (a) • Guy Dorian, Sr., Sal Buscema (c)
In 1969, two American astronauts became the first humans to set foot on Earth's moon... but something inhuman is waiting for them!
Seeking to conquer everything in their path, the Dire Wraiths wield powerful dark magics and can take over the bodies of other creatures shapeshifting into their hosts. The only thing powerful enough to oppose them is Rom the Spaceknight. But, with Rom nowhere in sight, can even the Adventure Team help prevent one giant leap for Dire Wraith-kind or is there no way to stop an invasion of Earth? Only the crew of Earth's first moon mission and some unexpected guest-stars stand in their way! Plus, a special back-up story with art by Guy Dorian, Sr. and Rom legend Sal Buscema! TPB • FC • $15.99 • 96 pages • ISBN: 978-1-68405-681-1
• AVAILABLE IN JULY
Michael Golden’s Micronauts Artist’s Edition—SPOTLIGHT
Bill Mantlo (w) • Michael Golden (a, c)
Michael Golden is regarded as one of the masters of comic art, and his long-out-of-print Micronauts is regarded as the “holy grail” among his many legions of fans. Now, through special arrangement with Marvel Comics and Hasbro, IDW is proud to present Golden’s Micronauts work in the multi-Eisner Award-winning Artist’s Edition format.
An Artist’s Edition showcases comic book original art in its most natural state, allowing the reader the opportunity to not only look at beautiful pages, but to also read the stories as well. It is the perfect opportunity for the true connoisseur of the form to experience art as never before. Each page has been meticulously scanned from the original art (in color, to show all the subtle nuances—blue pencil, white-out, staining—that make original art unique) and is presented at the same size they were drawn.
This gorgeous edition, prepared with the full cooperation of Michael Golden, will feature six complete issues—Micronauts #3, #7, #8, #9, #11, and #12! Plus, an incredible gallery section crammed full of story pages (something from each issue drawn by Golden), covers, pin ups and more—over 60 pages worth—making this the one book no Michael Golden fan can afford to miss!!
HC • BW • $150 • 184 pages • 12” x 17” • ISBN: 978-1-68405-753-5
Bullet points:
• In print for the first time in 35 years!
Hot on the heels about news regarding a My Little Pony / Transformers crossover graphic novel called "Friendship in Disguise", we find out from our friends at IDW Publishing, that the graphic novel will be released earlier this year as individual issues available weekly in May 2020. Here's the press release from IDW ...
IDW Publishing wrote:A May 2020 Four-Week Crossover Event!
SAN DIEGO, CA (February 6, 2020) – When the Mane Six gallop alongside Autobots in battle, the forces of villainy stand no chance! IDW Publishing (OTCQX: IDWM), under license by Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS), welcomes comic fans of all ages to enjoy the wildest crossover of Hasbro creations ever: MY LITTLE PONY / TRANSFORMERS, a four-issue miniseries shipping weekly in May!
In MY LITTLE PONY / TRANSFORMERS, the scheming Queen Chrysalis casts a spell in search of changeling allies, but accidentally interferes with a distant Cybertronian Spacebridge… and brings the Autobots and Decepticons to Equestria! As the dust settles, it's up to Twilight Sparkle, Optimus Prime, and others to overcome the menace of malevolent magic and machinery!
MY LITTLE PONY / TRANSFORMERS assembles an all-star team of comic creators for this mind-blowing series: writers James Asmus, Ian Flynn, and Sam Maggs, and artists Casey W. Coller, Jack Lawrence, Sara Pitre-Durocher, Priscilla Tramontano, and Tony Fleecs (who also provides cover artwork for the entirety of the series).
"The writing I've gotten to do individually for MY LITTLE PONY and TRANSFORMERS have already proven to be some of the most fun I've had in my career, so it's pure joy to play them off each other," says Asmus. "We're making a wild mash-up unlike anything else in your comic collection. You basically owe it to yourself and your future happiness to get a copy!"
"It's been a delightful challenge finding common threads between the ponies and bots. It's certainly a fun and unique opportunity," says Flynn. "I hope fans of both franchises can come together and enjoy this."
"MY LITTLE PONY and TRANSFORMERS are two of my all-time favorite universes. Having written for them both previously, the idea of bringing the citizens of Equestria and Cybertron together is incredibly exciting," says Maggs.
"Teaming TRANSFORMERS and MY LITTLE PONY has been a dream we've had for a long time," says IDW Editor-In-Chief John Barber. "We're all really excited to see this mashup of characters by a mashup of creators who are honoring the legacy of both universes… and doing it in the most bonkers, fun way imaginable!"
Just when you think you've seen it all, a new crossover graphic novel comic from IDW was revealed on My Little Pony fansite EquestriaDaily.com: Transformers / My Little Pony "Friendship in Disguise!" While this appears to be an oddball concept, it could turn out to be a good read just like the 90s crossover "The Punisher Meets Archie".
Written by Ian Flynn, James Asmus Illustrated by Tony Fleecs, Jack Lawrence 96 Pages Release Date: November 3rd, 2020.
Ponies, Autobots, and Decepticons mix it up in this graphic novel mashup!
When Queen Chrysalis casts a spell looking for more changelings, she accidentally interferes with a malfunctioning Spacebridge! What's this mean for our favorite fillies? There are suddenly a bunch of Autobots and Decepticons in Equestria! And as the dust settles, Rarity and Arcee find themselves teaming up against a hostile Decepticon force.
Plus Spike and Grimlock; Pinkie Pie, Gauge, and Shockwave; Fluttershy, Discord, and Soundwave; Rainbow Dash and Windblade; and Optimus Prime and Twilight Sparkle all team up for more adventures.
Are you excited for this crossover of two of Hasbro's biggest brands? Share your thoughts about this unique match-up in our forums here.
It's the second-to-last Friday of the month so right on cue we have information on the latest upcoming Transformers comic books from IDW Publishing. February will see Brian Ruckley's ongoing in this "Bold New Era" hit its 18th issue with a possible change in direction at hand, while the Cliffjumper two-parter in Galaxies reaches its conclusion. Keep reading for the official info and some additional thoughts on these latest solicitations.
Transformers #18
(W) Brian Ruckley (A/CA) Umi Miyao
"Run." Calamity has befallen Cybertron. The only reasonable option for many bots is escape-leaving the planet in hopes of safety. Arcee and Greenlight need to get their mentee, Gauge, off-world to protect her, but first they'll have to find a shuttle!
A spotlight issue on Arcee, Greenlight, and their mentee, Gauge!
Leads into next month's Transformers Galaxies #7!
In Shops: Feb 19, 2020
Order Transformers #18 with code DEC190650 for the Umi Miyao "A" cover, DEC190651 for the Bethany McGuire-Smith "B" cover, or ask your retailer about the ten-copy incentive cover by Kei Zama pictured above
If you've liked the setting of this new version of Cybertron, it sounds like Total Brand Awareness dictates leaving it behind while they explore space to find some Earthrise Synergon. This probably sounds saltier than intended, but don't get me wrong, a change of pace is exactly what I want for this series. Umi Miyao is currently solicited as the artist, and while the solicited artist has meant very little since the relaunch, if it holds true this will be the fourth issue in a row without Angel Hernandez contributing. While I can tell Mr. Hernandez is a talented artist, something about his style hasn't worked for me with Transformers as this series has progressed so this is something else that may be a wise move to keep this series viable as it heads into a "reader loss by attrition" danger zone with its issue count. It's nice to see a direct connection to Galaxies teased here as well, hopefully helping that upcoming story avoid the chore of having to do an entire issue of exposition and character introductions. Good signs are all around for this latest ongoing after a questionable start, here's hoping the script work starts to show some more life and character as well by the time we get to this issue.
Transformers: Galaxies #6
(W) Kate Leth, Cohen Edenfield (A/CA) Alex Milne
"Wannabee," Part Two! Deathsaurus's ruse has worked-the Probats believe that Cliffjumper is Bumblebee and it's really smoothed over the energon negotiations! Well... except for the part where Deathsaurus is now blowing Cliffjumper's cover and framing him for a crime that he didn't commit!
Co-written by Kate Leth (Transformers: Cyberverse, Patsy Walker, A.K.A. Hellcat) and Cohen Edenfield (Hiveswap)!
Art by beloved and renowned Transformers artist Alex Milne!
A tale of mistaken identities, wrong names, wacky mix-ups, and a guy named Deathsaurus who really can't be good news.
In Shops: Feb 26, 2020
Order Transformers: Galaxies #6 with code DEC190653 for the awesome Alex Milne "A" cover pictured above, DEC190654 for the Bethany McGuire-Smith "B" cover, or ask your retailer about the ten-copy incentive cover by George Caltsoudas
You can get action on anything with the right booking agent, so if you got in early on "Cliffjumper will die early again in another continuity" that was probably a good bet since it looks like the line's about to move in your favor based on this latest solicitation. While everyone's favorite walking one-bot army is usually up for any fight, I just can't see him facing off against Deathsaurus going well. It sounds like Kate Leth and Cohen Edenfield have a fun story waiting, or at least one that might be the pinnacle of the meta joke about Cliffjumper being a red Bumblebee since he's mostly been treated that way toy-wise since 2006 (yes there are exceptions, you don't need to point them out to me.) Anything drawn by Alex Milne is sure to be at minimum a feast for the eyes and if the cover art is anything to go by the colors (Josh Perez? Really wish these solicitations would include colorist info!) are going to be top notch as well. While subject to change - and change frequently - the listed release date has this out the week immediately after the 2020 New York Toy Fair, so let the never-ending rumors of a new Deathsaurus toy continue!
Transformers Valentine's Day Special
(W) Kate Leth, Patrick Ehlers (A) Jack Lawrence, Sara Pitre-Durocher
Bookish Glyph wants a challenge-to do work for xeno-relations, not just data analysis. Athletic Tap-Out needs a challenge-his boxing career isn't working out so well. When one mission presents both of them a chance to meet new challenges head-on, will they be able to lift each other up to the task or will they just get in each other's way?
Robo-mance is real in this adventure focusing on love in the Transformers universe!
The perfect gift for Valentine's Day or any romantic occasion!
Back-up story written by the real-life engaged couple: Kate Leth & Cohen Edenfield!
In Shops: Feb 12, 2020
Order the Transformers Valentine's Day Special with code DEC190656
This looks so fun. Transformers is rarely afforded true irreverent exuberance in an official capacity and the artist choices alone here with Jack Lawrence and Sara Pitre-Durocher should tell you everything you need to know when setting your expectations. I can't wait to see what's in store for this one-shot that's leaning in to a side of Transformers which is only uncomfortable if you are. Having an engaged writing team on its back-up/bonus story with Kate Leth and Cohen Edenfield may prove interesting, all I ask is that they be brought back after a couple years of marriage to make a follow-up so we can see how that goes - hopefully really well!
Transformers: The IDW Collection Phase Two, Volume 11
(W) John Barber, James Roberts (A) Sara Pitre-Durocher, Andrew Griffith, Alex Milne (CA) Marcelo Matere
Presenting IDW's Transformers comics in recommended reading order, including one-shots, crossovers, and event series! OPTIMUS PRIME struggles to find his place on CYBERTRON where half the population hates him and the other half worships him. Meanwhile, on Earth, GALVATRON doesn't care what anybody thinks. And, although Megatron has rejected his past, that doesn't keep him safe from the Decepticon Justice Division. Plus, Getaway is staging a mutiny on the Lost Light, all leading to a climactic showdown, and not everyone will come out the other side.
In the one-shot special, the Dinobots battle for Redemption! Cybertron is dead. No new life has been created in millions of years. But when the Dinobots make a brutal play for a briefcase full of cash, they find something else: a chance for a better future... for their world, and for themselves.
In Shops: May 27, 2020
Order the Transformers Phase Two, Volume 11 Hardcover collection with code DEC190658
We're getting close to the tipping point where something's gotta give in these collections with the Hasbro Universe stories on the horizon, but those are still a couple of these big and beautiful hardcover volumes out from the looks of it. Volume 11 picks up Transformers (2014) with the "Conquerors" story arc, which was pretty good build up for "All Hail Optimus" in its time. Notably, this should also contain the very good issue #48 with D.0.C. and Buster doing their best homage to Pizza Dog. The overlooked "Redemption" Dinobot one-shot gets a reprint here as well which is great news for fans of Dinobots, Livio Ramondelli art and "Mad Max: Fury Road" enthusiasts. All of those stories have the unenviable task of sitting alongside More Than Meets The Eye's "Dying of the Light" storyline, aka the one where James Roberts pulled out Megatron's G1 Tech Spec and made all your fan theories feel pretty stupid in the process. Maybe that was just me. Anyways, if you've never had the chance to read that story I envy you because getting to experience that for the first time is an experience, man. Also note that if you click here and scroll way down you'll see that previous IDW Collection Phase Two volumes 1-9 as well as the soon to be released volume 10 are all being re-solicited, so if you missed out on earlier printings this collection of Transformers' second Golden Age of comics, this is a great opportunity to catch up.
That's all for February's solicitations, let me know if you like this format of solicitation info + commentary. While I can't promise to do this every month one way to guarantee it never happens again is if it's met with your silence - then again, maybe you want that! Stay tuned to Seibertron.com for all the latest Transformers comics news and let your fellow fans know what you'll be picking up in the comments below, just be sure to play nice.
A last little tidbit of news from the #NYCC2019 is the generous reveals for the upcoming creators and covers for Transformers Galaxies #'s 5-12! These were revealed during the IDW panel and later posted to IDW's Editor David Mariotte's Twitter account over the weekend of the #NYCC2019. Below are the tweets that he issued along with the cover images revealed during the panel. There are stories with Cliffjumper, Arcee, Greenlight, their mentee Gauge, and Ultra Magnus on the way, all set in the current War for Cybertron continuity. If the first issue of Galaxies is any indication we're going to be seeing fun and interesting new angles of the current IDW Transformers continuity. Enjoy!
"So these were shown off at NYCC today: TF Galaxies #5 RI-A cover by @Anna__Malkova! The Cliffjumper focused issues 5 & 6 are by @kateleth, @skullmandible, @markerguru, and @dyemooch! Coming in January (and look for more news in the January Previews catalog)!"
"Then we also showed off the A cover to TF Galaxies #7 by @coralus_SF, who is also the interior artist!Written by @SamMaggs this one's going to feature Arcee, Greenlight, and their mentee Gauge, shown here for the first time in her full glory since issue #4 of the ongoing!"
"And, finally, check out the awesome A cover to TF Galaxies #10 by @glovestudios! Andrew, @BrandonEaston, and @teyowisonte are bringing you Ultra Magnus goodness in #10-12, starting in June! Suffice to say, we have a very exciting first year's worth of Galaxies planned!"
Are you gearing up for Galaxies? How long will Cliffjumper survive this time? Will we see Arcee's War for Cybertron toy mold? Let us know in the forums and as always stay tuned to Seibertron for the ultimate in Transformers news!
Just in from our troops who were at the #SDCC2019 IDW Panel is an update on their upcoming Transformers projects. The panel was hosted by David Mariotte with panelists Tyler Bleszinski, Sam Maggs, Michael Kelly, Erik Burnham, Livio Ramondelli and Brandon Easton.
Click on the video below which starts just a few minutes into the panel for the full run down but here are some of the highlights:
-The panel started off with Transformers Galaxies and where the 12 issue series will take fans.
-The team of IDW Transformers includes Brian Ruckley, Angel Hernandez, Anna Malkova, and Bethany McGuire-Smith.
-David discusses the new direction for IDW Transformers.
-Third arc will start in issue #13. A few covers are shown. As stated there will be "Lots of cop, drama action along with political intrigue."
-Michael states "Giving Cybertron a rebirth before the events that lead to the war was really important." He wants the planet to feel like a character in its own right.
-Livio covers of the Constructicons Rising and mention of "Devastation" being on its way.
-#1 Casey Colier cover and Nick Roche cover both with colors by Josh Burcham.
-#2 and #3 Andrew Griffith cover.
-Alex Milne cover with Josh Perez.
-The Constructicons will span issues 1-4.
-Issues 5-6 will focus on Cliffjumper and will be by Kate Leth and Cohen Edenfield.
-Issue 7-9 will focus on Arcee and Greenlight and will be by Sam Maggs.
Per Sam the Arcee and Greenlight arc will focus on the next Cybertronian born after Rubble, and how being born into war forces individuals to choose sides.
-She states there will be a focus on the challenges of being a young person making up their own mind and finding their own path.
-Beyond stating she has a personal love of cults and is interested in the character Heretech she can't say too much about where the story will go.
-Issue 10-12 will focus in Ultra Magnus and will be by Brandon Easton.
Per Brandon the challenge is to not spoil anything from the other titles coming before his and mentions he is a big fan of Robert Stack who voiced Magnus in the 1986 animated movie.
-He mentions loving how Magnus as a character always seems like power kept in check by ideals.
-He states Magnus's story will take place off world and will have to do with Magnus accepting society as it has become and not as it once was.
-35 years of Ghostbusters and Transformers!
Ghosts of Cybertron written by Erik Burnham with Dan Shoening. Erik states his favorite character to write is Starscream.
-States he had trouble finding Ectotron's voice until he thought of David Hyde Pierce.
-States he doesn't want to say too much and spoil anything and has been done with the title for three months now.
-The panel then goes over the various exclusives available at the con from IDW such as the Ghostbusters Optimus Prime cover to be signed by Erik at the convention, an exclusive cover with the Ghostbusters Ectotron and Optimus all doing the Ghostbusters dance.
-Also featured is an exclusive cover of Transformers vs. Star Trek with cover by Derek Charm, Transformers vs. GI Joe limited edition hardcover signed by Tom Scioli, and a special edition cover of the Go-Bots.
-Also mentioned is Transformers '84! A new series by Simon Furman, Guido Guidi, John Paul Bove that weaves the gaps between the US G1 comic book and the UK G1 comic book! Any fans of the classic comic are sure to be chomping at the bit for this one.
For any GI Joe or Rom fans there's some new titles on the way for them as well and are discussed at the tail end of the video.
Enjoy the view and share your thoughts wiht the Seibertron crew in the forums. Don't forget to stay tuned to Seibertron for all your #SDCC2019 news!
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