IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review
Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 7:33AM CDT
Categories: Comic Book News, Reviews, Site ArticlesPosted by: Va'al Views: 42,750
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Combiner Quips
(Spoiler free-ish)
(Spoiler free-ish)
Synopsis
PROWL makes his move… and the galaxy will never be the same. Can WINDBLADE stand against the threat of the COMBINERS?
Enter, stage right
Story
Close in its release to the previous chapter in Combiner Wars, taking place in The Transformers #40, Windblade #2 continues the event, by letting the story by Mairghread Scott and John Barber slide back over the table to Scott for the actual writing of the issue - where does it fare, you might ask? Read on below to find out.
Buckle up!
Scott does her usual dialogue wonders, playing with the different characters' voices throughout the text, and airing some of the hang-ons from previous stories, especially with Ironhide and Chromia (and the Tankors). Starscream seems to shine even more in his machinations, but it's the combiners that get a lot of the scene - and their fights are not just physical.
REKT M8
On the other hand, there are some concerning issues taking place in the book, mostly from either script mistakes or editorial oversights, not only very early on in the book (First Aid becoming Fix-It briefly, for example; a number of typos) - I'm not keen on pointing out minor slips by Scott or Guzman, but there are quite a few scattered throughout, which should be caught by the time the trade comes out.
Someone's mistake?
Nonetheless, even with the rushed feeling of some of the pages of the issue, the dialogue works well and there are some sensationally silly, but fist-pumping moments in the fights between combiners - wth Devastator finally entering the main stage, and the introduction of even more to the mix - that just I mean I just go read them, they're bonkers, fun and twistedly light-hearted.
Art
The artwork duties are still down to Livio Ramondelli, keeping the engine running for yet another issue of Combiner Wars - and there are some really good things being done for it. There are some great facial expression moments, the characters all get their needed gravitas, and Starscream is as pissed off as ever. There are even channellings of Sarah Stone's redeveloped design for some characters.
That there's a noice Ironhide
Much of the problems with this issue, unfortunately, also comes down to what the artwork doesn't do quite right. There are panels in which characters seem to switch for no apparent reason, especially among the Protectobots. Some of the Superion fight scenes have limbs appearing and reappearing without explanation or shown process, and when it's shown (in one panel/sequence) it takes a while to identify.
Your words, Prowl
The lettering, on the third hand, does not present any difficulties or confusing sequences as last issues, and actually, Tom B. Long has a lot of fun with sound effects during the fight scenes - the many fight scenes - and the multiple voices that Scott's script develops for the characters. The covers once again lack the Hasbro Marcelo Matere credit for the (thumbnailed) RI variant, but still deliver on their quality, with the truly menacing Devastator poster variant by Ramondelli, and the Casey Coller/Joana Lafuente Defensor spotlight.
Thoughts
Spoilerish ahead
The smattering of mistakes in script and artwork unfortunately hinder the full enjoyment of this chapter of Combiner Wars, and gives it too much of a rushed feeling to satisfy long-time readers and invested fans. However, while they do distract, they do not take away from what it does really really well, in both writing and visuals, as I hope I've showed above.
lel
What the issue works well with is the interactions, both verbal and physical, both aggressive and positive, and between Camiens and Cybertronians, Autobots and Decepticons and all the various cogs in the machine that is becoming the beginning of a new universe-wide ..well, universe. Glamorous assistant ScottyP aptly comments that this is an almost entry-level comic for people buying the new toys, and it does more than enough to hook people in for the longer ride.
. 
out of
out of Credit(s): IDW, Va'al
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Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1677792)
Posted by Ironhidensh on April 22nd, 2015 @ 8:00am CDT
Posted by Ironhidensh on April 22nd, 2015 @ 8:00am CDT
I feel Prowlestator went down too easy. I'm not fond of the "magic make you combine" laser. I guess it all just feels too rushed. I have a feeling Hasbro is pulling strings, and the story is suffering for it.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1677796)
Posted by Va'al on April 22nd, 2015 @ 8:11am CDT
Posted by Va'al on April 22nd, 2015 @ 8:11am CDT
For the so-called lols:
http://chrismcfeely.tumblr.com/post/117 ... ars-out-of
I feel I should now be a fan of Rook, as well as Alpha Bravo.
http://chrismcfeely.tumblr.com/post/117 ... ars-out-of
I feel I should now be a fan of Rook, as well as Alpha Bravo.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1677926)
Posted by 1984forever on April 22nd, 2015 @ 12:19pm CDT
Posted by 1984forever on April 22nd, 2015 @ 12:19pm CDT
Yes, the art could be better... but this is hands down the BEST Transformers IDW has ever produced! It actually deserves 4 and a half symbols, not 3.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1677967)
Posted by sneakycheapy on April 22nd, 2015 @ 2:39pm CDT
I wholeheartedly disagree. This was a clumsily written and plotted issue and, as Va'al hints toward, I think its partially because the whole thing is a Hasbro-sponsored advertisement.
Thankfully MTMTE isn't being drawn into the mess...
Props to Scott and Barber for taking the bullet on this one.
PS: I suppose it is entirely possible you're trolling.
Posted by sneakycheapy on April 22nd, 2015 @ 2:39pm CDT
1984forever wrote:Yes, the art could be better... but this is hands down the BEST Transformers IDW has ever produced! It actually deserves 4 and a half symbols, not 3.
I wholeheartedly disagree. This was a clumsily written and plotted issue and, as Va'al hints toward, I think its partially because the whole thing is a Hasbro-sponsored advertisement.
Thankfully MTMTE isn't being drawn into the mess...
Props to Scott and Barber for taking the bullet on this one.
PS: I suppose it is entirely possible you're trolling.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1677968)
Posted by King Kuuga on April 22nd, 2015 @ 2:45pm CDT
Starscream: "Hey, you guys are a team, right?"
Protectobots: "Not really...."
Starscream: "Are you of one mind?"
Protectobots: "Maybe, We guess...."
Starscream: "GOOD ENOUGH FOR ME!"
*combining happens*
I found that humorous, although I agree I don't want to see it happen too often. Develop the guys as a team and have some combiner growing pains.
So let's see, the combiner wars so far has Devastator, Menasor, Superion, and Defensor. Think Monstructor will show up to cause trouble? Will we see Ultra Prime or anybody else, do you think? Or is this it?
Posted by King Kuuga on April 22nd, 2015 @ 2:45pm CDT
Ironhidensh wrote:I feel Prowlestator went down too easy. I'm not fond of the "magic make you combine" laser. I guess it all just feels too rushed. I have a feeling Hasbro is pulling strings, and the story is suffering for it.
Starscream: "Hey, you guys are a team, right?"
Protectobots: "Not really...."
Starscream: "Are you of one mind?"
Protectobots: "Maybe, We guess...."
Starscream: "GOOD ENOUGH FOR ME!"
*combining happens*
I found that humorous, although I agree I don't want to see it happen too often. Develop the guys as a team and have some combiner growing pains.
So let's see, the combiner wars so far has Devastator, Menasor, Superion, and Defensor. Think Monstructor will show up to cause trouble? Will we see Ultra Prime or anybody else, do you think? Or is this it?
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1677987)
Posted by Nemesis Maximo on April 22nd, 2015 @ 4:19pm CDT
Posted by Nemesis Maximo on April 22nd, 2015 @ 4:19pm CDT
On one hand, I hope Monstructor shows up, because if he 's in the comics his chance of becoming a toy increases.
On the other hand, i feel like that would just bring up the Dead Universe again.
On the other hand, i feel like that would just bring up the Dead Universe again.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1678111)
Posted by Crosscheck on April 22nd, 2015 @ 11:31pm CDT
Posted by Crosscheck on April 22nd, 2015 @ 11:31pm CDT
I think it is a little weird we hardly ever see the Aerialbots, just Superion. It kinda makes the whole Alpha Bravo issue seem even more silly than it already was since we don't see the individual members. Hopefully that will be changed soon.
I must say that I don't really like that they are just having Starscream just using the Enigma willie-nillie. I would have liked a little more build-up to the Protectobots becoming Defensor. Hopefully the Combaticons will get something a little better than that.
I do like that Superion is demonstrating skills that the toy can actually do, such as transforming a leg into an arm to augment attacks. I bet the combiners all will make superb grapplers as a result of this.
I must say that I don't really like that they are just having Starscream just using the Enigma willie-nillie. I would have liked a little more build-up to the Protectobots becoming Defensor. Hopefully the Combaticons will get something a little better than that.
I do like that Superion is demonstrating skills that the toy can actually do, such as transforming a leg into an arm to augment attacks. I bet the combiners all will make superb grapplers as a result of this.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1678153)
Posted by Flashwave on April 23rd, 2015 @ 2:25am CDT
Posted by Flashwave on April 23rd, 2015 @ 2:25am CDT
I feel very dissappointed in this.
One, its the art. Reminds me of slate, always has. Not my cup of tea.
Two, it felt rushed. I don't like Starscream's "ZAP! You're a COmbiner, and You're a Combiner, and You're a COmbiner, EVERYONE IS A COMBINER!!! YAY!!! And we've been hinting at this "Devestator is a living personality idea for a while now. And while we have a Mad Prowl, This doesn't feel like "Devastator" yet. I hope that's still coming, but in the meantime, this isn't what I wanted.
Also, I really have no idea what's going on. We have a cool bit of world building within the council. And I like that bit with Optimus, reminds me of the scene from the HBO John Adams series where Adams, as Vice President, was to hold the tiebraker in Congress, only to discover that unless or until there was a tie to break, he had NOTHING to do and NO power. Then what, we have a ouching scene with Ironhide and Chromia, and then I get confused by the Combier Battle, which to me kinda sorta feels like It was thrust into this issue for Hasbro to sell toys, whereas if it were being done at IDW's pacing, which admittedly would not have worked so well with toy releases. I don't get Prowl's reasoning. It's Prowl, no one is supposed to get it. But this feels like Prowl just showed up to punch ReallyBigPeople(tm). And I don't see any strategy, let alone endgame.
I really feel like the Enignma of Combinatoric should have ended up on a planet of Omni-Combinational robots. But that's just me being fanboy. And as I recall, the timelines don't match up for that to work anyway. But was a thought.
Wait, Rook was in this issue?
One, its the art. Reminds me of slate, always has. Not my cup of tea.
Two, it felt rushed. I don't like Starscream's "ZAP! You're a COmbiner, and You're a Combiner, and You're a COmbiner, EVERYONE IS A COMBINER!!! YAY!!! And we've been hinting at this "Devestator is a living personality idea for a while now. And while we have a Mad Prowl, This doesn't feel like "Devastator" yet. I hope that's still coming, but in the meantime, this isn't what I wanted.
Also, I really have no idea what's going on. We have a cool bit of world building within the council. And I like that bit with Optimus, reminds me of the scene from the HBO John Adams series where Adams, as Vice President, was to hold the tiebraker in Congress, only to discover that unless or until there was a tie to break, he had NOTHING to do and NO power. Then what, we have a ouching scene with Ironhide and Chromia, and then I get confused by the Combier Battle, which to me kinda sorta feels like It was thrust into this issue for Hasbro to sell toys, whereas if it were being done at IDW's pacing, which admittedly would not have worked so well with toy releases. I don't get Prowl's reasoning. It's Prowl, no one is supposed to get it. But this feels like Prowl just showed up to punch ReallyBigPeople(tm). And I don't see any strategy, let alone endgame.
I really feel like the Enignma of Combinatoric should have ended up on a planet of Omni-Combinational robots. But that's just me being fanboy. And as I recall, the timelines don't match up for that to work anyway. But was a thought.
Wait, Rook was in this issue?
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1678180)
Posted by King Kuuga on April 23rd, 2015 @ 5:41am CDT
So far it goes something like this.
Prowl finds out that Starscream is using Superion as a chess piece in the recontact with Caminus. Due to his intense distrust of anything Starscream does, Prowl he KNOWS Starscream will use Superion to try to conquer the colonies, and since Prime isn't doing anything to stop him, Prowl takes matters into his own hands. In his mind, Cybertron allying with the lost colonies will only end in mutually assured destruction, and he'd rather keep the colonies separate than drag them down with a Cybertron that is sure to crumble under Starscream's rule. As Devastator he goes to Caminus and tries to clear out all Cybertronians, and when that doesn't work he goes to Cybertron and starts destroying the space bridge to keep the two worlds from interacting again. That's his angle: he doesn't want Starscream in control of a combiner while in charge of Cybertron because he will use his combiner to conquer the universe and destroy Cybertron.
I'm not sure if that's a legitimate question or a joke about how miniscule his appearances were.
Posted by King Kuuga on April 23rd, 2015 @ 5:41am CDT
Flashwave wrote:Also, I really have no idea what's going on. We have a cool bit of world building within the council. And I like that bit with Optimus, reminds me of the scene from the HBO John Adams series where Adams, as Vice President, was to hold the tiebraker in Congress, only to discover that unless or until there was a tie to break, he had NOTHING to do and NO power. Then what, we have a ouching scene with Ironhide and Chromia, and then I get confused by the Combier Battle, which to me kinda sorta feels like It was thrust into this issue for Hasbro to sell toys, whereas if it were being done at IDW's pacing, which admittedly would not have worked so well with toy releases. I don't get Prowl's reasoning. It's Prowl, no one is supposed to get it. But this feels like Prowl just showed up to punch ReallyBigPeople(tm). And I don't see any strategy, let alone endgame.
So far it goes something like this.
Prowl finds out that Starscream is using Superion as a chess piece in the recontact with Caminus. Due to his intense distrust of anything Starscream does, Prowl he KNOWS Starscream will use Superion to try to conquer the colonies, and since Prime isn't doing anything to stop him, Prowl takes matters into his own hands. In his mind, Cybertron allying with the lost colonies will only end in mutually assured destruction, and he'd rather keep the colonies separate than drag them down with a Cybertron that is sure to crumble under Starscream's rule. As Devastator he goes to Caminus and tries to clear out all Cybertronians, and when that doesn't work he goes to Cybertron and starts destroying the space bridge to keep the two worlds from interacting again. That's his angle: he doesn't want Starscream in control of a combiner while in charge of Cybertron because he will use his combiner to conquer the universe and destroy Cybertron.
Wait, Rook was in this issue?
I'm not sure if that's a legitimate question or a joke about how miniscule his appearances were.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1678196)
Posted by 1984forever on April 23rd, 2015 @ 7:54am CDT
If I trash the book, I'm trolling. But if I like the book, I'm also trolling. Maybe I should explain why this issue is superior to anything IDW has produced thus far.
Correct use of characters. Prime was spot on in both speech and action. Starscream was at his treacherous best, this is the way he really would act if he ruled Cybertron! The Decepticons were just tools to him. The Constructicons were on the side which could be considered "evil", which is where they are supposed to be. And if you're an Autobot like Prowl who decides to rock with the Constructicons, well then you're a traitor and you get treated as such... which is exactly what happened. Seeing old faces like Mirage and Sunstreaker are a plus. Sunstreaker should have his own book IMO.
Transformers is an ACTION series. And we got plenty in this issue! A 3 way Combiner battle that was better than anything I have seen in G1 in print or on screen
The comic advertised the toys. After you finished reading the book you could buy the characters in physical form. Just like the old days.
Basically what all of you just read was an authentic Transformers product! Different in almost every way than the fanficky trash IDW usually squelches out.
Posted by 1984forever on April 23rd, 2015 @ 7:54am CDT
WOWsneakycheapy wrote:1984forever wrote:Yes, the art could be better... but this is hands down the BEST Transformers IDW has ever produced! It actually deserves 4 and a half symbols, not 3.
I wholeheartedly disagree. This was a clumsily written and plotted issue and, as Va'al hints toward, I think its partially because the whole thing is a Hasbro-sponsored advertisement.
Thankfully MTMTE isn't being drawn into the mess...
Props to Scott and Barber for taking the bullet on this one.
PS: I suppose it is entirely possible you're trolling.
If I trash the book, I'm trolling. But if I like the book, I'm also trolling. Maybe I should explain why this issue is superior to anything IDW has produced thus far.
Correct use of characters. Prime was spot on in both speech and action. Starscream was at his treacherous best, this is the way he really would act if he ruled Cybertron! The Decepticons were just tools to him. The Constructicons were on the side which could be considered "evil", which is where they are supposed to be. And if you're an Autobot like Prowl who decides to rock with the Constructicons, well then you're a traitor and you get treated as such... which is exactly what happened. Seeing old faces like Mirage and Sunstreaker are a plus. Sunstreaker should have his own book IMO.
Transformers is an ACTION series. And we got plenty in this issue! A 3 way Combiner battle that was better than anything I have seen in G1 in print or on screen
The comic advertised the toys. After you finished reading the book you could buy the characters in physical form. Just like the old days.
Basically what all of you just read was an authentic Transformers product! Different in almost every way than the fanficky trash IDW usually squelches out.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1678212)
Posted by MrBlack on April 23rd, 2015 @ 9:06am CDT
Posted by MrBlack on April 23rd, 2015 @ 9:06am CDT
This may have been the weakest issue of the main Transformers series since the launch of MTMTE and RID. Errors abound, and the entire issue felt rushed. The Protectobots and Defensor felt shoe-horned in. I think Livio Ramondelli gets a bad rap at times, and his artwork has improved immensely over the past couple of years, but the combiner fights in this issue were nigh incomprehensible. The whole issue came off as a muddled mess.
It's clear that this issue was rushed. There were plenty of simple errors that should have been caught by an editor, and it's obvious that Rook (or rather, Rook's head) was drawn in at the last minute on a few pages. Groove completely disappears when the Protectobots combine. It's a shame, because this story has raised some very interesting issues regarding religion and leadership on Cybertron, and has, up to this issue, been a far better series than I expected.
Here's hoping that Barber and Scott have more time to polish things up before the next issues drop.
It's clear that this issue was rushed. There were plenty of simple errors that should have been caught by an editor, and it's obvious that Rook (or rather, Rook's head) was drawn in at the last minute on a few pages. Groove completely disappears when the Protectobots combine. It's a shame, because this story has raised some very interesting issues regarding religion and leadership on Cybertron, and has, up to this issue, been a far better series than I expected.
Here's hoping that Barber and Scott have more time to polish things up before the next issues drop.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1680654)
Posted by sabrigami on April 29th, 2015 @ 8:00pm CDT
Posted by sabrigami on April 29th, 2015 @ 8:00pm CDT
Wow. Finally caught up on the CW issues so far and WB. I've been holding off on them because I really wasn't interested in combiners. Toys or comic wise. So far, for the first time since RID started, I actually cannot wait until next issue. Stuff is happening! Prime is a manipulative ass who uses his title to literally be "holier than thou". Starscream being his rutheless self. and Prowl finally reaching his breaking point. Now, I will admit, I am biased and will give extra marks because of Prowl (love him so much!).
Can't comment on all the mistakes this issue. Quite frankly I didn't even notice them. Somewhat due to art (Livio has gotten much better with faces, but bots are still hard to identify for me) and mostly because I just don't know a lot of the secondary/bg characters. Story wise, I was immensely satisfied. if there was one thing I could change if I could (Fangirl alert!) is to see how Sarah would do her take on Prowl's demise scene. The one Va'al showed in the review specifically. Okay, Okay, I'll stop now.
I hope that the Protectobots give SS a piece of their mind for what he did to them. I know I would be pissed.
But yeah, loving this so far! I may even start getting some toys in the near future
Can't comment on all the mistakes this issue. Quite frankly I didn't even notice them. Somewhat due to art (Livio has gotten much better with faces, but bots are still hard to identify for me) and mostly because I just don't know a lot of the secondary/bg characters. Story wise, I was immensely satisfied. if there was one thing I could change if I could (Fangirl alert!) is to see how Sarah would do her take on Prowl's demise scene. The one Va'al showed in the review specifically. Okay, Okay, I'll stop now.
I hope that the Protectobots give SS a piece of their mind for what he did to them. I know I would be pissed.
But yeah, loving this so far! I may even start getting some toys in the near future
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1681995)
Posted by Syn_13 on May 3rd, 2015 @ 4:06pm CDT
Posted by Syn_13 on May 3rd, 2015 @ 4:06pm CDT
Well, I've just caught up on this. I liked CW: Part 2, but Part 3 felt a little rushed.
I'd have liked more character development within the combiner teams, to be honest. As I said, it was all too rushed. Also, I just feel it's being dragged out a little and is starting to feel a bit like filler.
I really enjoyed the first season of RiD, and I also liked it at the beginning of the 2nd when it shifted back to Earth a little to focus on characters like Thundercracker and Galvatron, and further develop Prowl. I liked that the rest of the old RiD cast like Starscream were still getting some love through the Windblade series.
This Combiner Wars gimmick isn't doing much for me, and my interest is only being held by the political game that has been much the focus of Barber's storytelling. I'm hoping once CW is done it'll go back to the way it felt before. I'd also be happy for them to stretch it to 3 ongoings as I've enjoyed the work of Scott, Barber and Roberts, and that way they can give time to what is such a huge cast right now.
I have to say the art makes it heavy reading too. I really appreciate Ramondelli's talent, but his art style is suited to a much darker series. He suits Autocracy/Monstrosity/Primacy a lot more, as it's heavier/darker storytelling. In the same way I thought he suited the pre-CW issue which had a flashback to Galvatron meeting Nova. He's best used sparingly, IMO, and I reckon once CW has come to a close it'll go back to Griffith being the main artist. Griffith does a lot better a job of portraying emotion, particularly through facial expressions, and that's such an important aid to the way Barber tells his story. Sarah Stone would've been a better choice for this CW series too, her work on Part 1 was brilliant.
Regardless, it is enjoyable, but I'm honestly hoping we soon get back to the proper Barber/Griffith storytelling/art that has made Rid/Transformers ongoing such an enjoyable read. Also, it's nice to see Waspinator back, but it still needs more Sky-Byte!
I'd have liked more character development within the combiner teams, to be honest. As I said, it was all too rushed. Also, I just feel it's being dragged out a little and is starting to feel a bit like filler.
I really enjoyed the first season of RiD, and I also liked it at the beginning of the 2nd when it shifted back to Earth a little to focus on characters like Thundercracker and Galvatron, and further develop Prowl. I liked that the rest of the old RiD cast like Starscream were still getting some love through the Windblade series.
This Combiner Wars gimmick isn't doing much for me, and my interest is only being held by the political game that has been much the focus of Barber's storytelling. I'm hoping once CW is done it'll go back to the way it felt before. I'd also be happy for them to stretch it to 3 ongoings as I've enjoyed the work of Scott, Barber and Roberts, and that way they can give time to what is such a huge cast right now.
I have to say the art makes it heavy reading too. I really appreciate Ramondelli's talent, but his art style is suited to a much darker series. He suits Autocracy/Monstrosity/Primacy a lot more, as it's heavier/darker storytelling. In the same way I thought he suited the pre-CW issue which had a flashback to Galvatron meeting Nova. He's best used sparingly, IMO, and I reckon once CW has come to a close it'll go back to Griffith being the main artist. Griffith does a lot better a job of portraying emotion, particularly through facial expressions, and that's such an important aid to the way Barber tells his story. Sarah Stone would've been a better choice for this CW series too, her work on Part 1 was brilliant.
Regardless, it is enjoyable, but I'm honestly hoping we soon get back to the proper Barber/Griffith storytelling/art that has made Rid/Transformers ongoing such an enjoyable read. Also, it's nice to see Waspinator back, but it still needs more Sky-Byte!
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686310)
Posted by Va'al on May 16th, 2015 @ 12:03pm CDT
Posted by Va'al on May 16th, 2015 @ 12:03pm CDT
Via comics and entertainment media website Comic Book Resources, in collaboration with IDW Publishing, we have the full preview for the upcoming fourth chapter in the Transformers Combiner Wars event, as we switch back to The Transformers ongoing #41. Check out the first pages below, and head back to Seibertron.com on Wednesday for our usual review!
Transformers #41—Combiner Wars
John Barber (w) • Livio Ramondelli (a) • Casey W. Coller (c)
DESPERATE ACTIONS! As the SPACEBRIDGE reaches across the stars, will anyone stand against STARSCREAM? The answer is yes—but the cure might prove worse than the disease.
FC • 32 pages • $3.99
Bullet points:
COMBINER WARS part 4
OPTIMUS PRIME versus PROWL—one on one!
The biggest battle ever between COMBINERS!
Variant Hasbro Combiner Wars poster cover!
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686312)
Posted by sabrigami on May 16th, 2015 @ 12:13pm CDT
Posted by sabrigami on May 16th, 2015 @ 12:13pm CDT
This issue is looking good! never mind the enigma of combination. I wanna figure out the enigma that is Prowl 
Livio seems to be getting far more expressive with his faces too. It's nice his work is getting a little more curvy.
Livio seems to be getting far more expressive with his faces too. It's nice his work is getting a little more curvy.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686315)
Posted by steve2275 on May 16th, 2015 @ 12:16pm CDT
i like how the jet arms are up
Posted by steve2275 on May 16th, 2015 @ 12:16pm CDT
i like how the jet arms are up
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686347)
Posted by Nemesis Maximo on May 16th, 2015 @ 2:16pm CDT
Posted by Nemesis Maximo on May 16th, 2015 @ 2:16pm CDT
This looks much better than last issue. More polished. And Livio's really hitting his stride so far.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686349)
Posted by Deadput on May 16th, 2015 @ 2:39pm CDT
Posted by Deadput on May 16th, 2015 @ 2:39pm CDT
I am just loving Starscream in this series.
Such a manipulative glorious bastard.
^ Wait that's censored?
Didn't realize that its a bad word.
Such a manipulative glorious bastard.
^ Wait that's censored?
Didn't realize that its a bad word.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686350)
Posted by Va'al on May 16th, 2015 @ 2:40pm CDT
Posted by Va'al on May 16th, 2015 @ 2:40pm CDT
Having read the issue, I agree with pretty much all the comments so far.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686467)
Posted by Ginrai Minor on May 16th, 2015 @ 6:34pm CDT
Posted by Ginrai Minor on May 16th, 2015 @ 6:34pm CDT
If only CW Prime toy actually looked like the art, he would be such a beautiful juggernaut. Also I have mixed feelings about(but overall do like)Prime kinda losing it from all the things his species has been through and his flaws i.e. control issues.
But bruh Prowl is full goneeeee
But bruh Prowl is full goneeeee
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686488)
Posted by Shuttershock on May 16th, 2015 @ 7:08pm CDT
Prowl has come to the conclusion that Cybertron is beyond saving, and believes that they shouldn't let Caminus or anyone else be pulled down with them.
It'd be noble if it wasn't so bleakly defeatist.
Posted by Shuttershock on May 16th, 2015 @ 7:08pm CDT
Ginrai Minor wrote:If only CW Prime toy actually looked like the art, he would be such a beautiful juggernaut. Also I have mixed feelings about(but overall do like)Prime kinda losing it from all the things his species has been through and his flaws i.e. control issues.
But bruh Prowl is full goneeeee
Prowl has come to the conclusion that Cybertron is beyond saving, and believes that they shouldn't let Caminus or anyone else be pulled down with them.
It'd be noble if it wasn't so bleakly defeatist.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686500)
Posted by Ginrai Minor on May 16th, 2015 @ 7:32pm CDT
The whole "amputate the infection" mentality is noble but it's def Prowl's classic kill a million to save a billion course of action, I just love how raw he is about it now. A noble insane royal cu*t...IDW thank you for fresh mostly competent stories to keep TF's fresh as we all get older!
Posted by Ginrai Minor on May 16th, 2015 @ 7:32pm CDT
Shuttershock wrote:Ginrai Minor wrote:If only CW Prime toy actually looked like the art, he would be such a beautiful juggernaut. Also I have mixed feelings about(but overall do like)Prime kinda losing it from all the things his species has been through and his flaws i.e. control issues.
But bruh Prowl is full goneeeee
Prowl has come to the conclusion that Cybertron is beyond saving, and believes that they shouldn't let Caminus or anyone else be pulled down with them.
It'd be noble if it wasn't so bleakly defeatist.
The whole "amputate the infection" mentality is noble but it's def Prowl's classic kill a million to save a billion course of action, I just love how raw he is about it now. A noble insane royal cu*t...IDW thank you for fresh mostly competent stories to keep TF's fresh as we all get older!
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686503)
Posted by padfoo on May 16th, 2015 @ 7:38pm CDT
Posted by padfoo on May 16th, 2015 @ 7:38pm CDT
Wow Livio's art is amazing here. This issue Is really good Looking.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686506)
Posted by MaverickPrime on May 16th, 2015 @ 7:55pm CDT
Posted by MaverickPrime on May 16th, 2015 @ 7:55pm CDT
I suppose this is building up to Prowl redeeming himself/finding hope in becoming a combiner, and Wheeljack being there could lead to him as well, Ironhide is also pretty prominent here, those rumored figures begin to make more sense 
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686511)
Posted by SW's SilverHammer on May 16th, 2015 @ 8:34pm CDT
Posted by SW's SilverHammer on May 16th, 2015 @ 8:34pm CDT
MaverickPrime wrote:I suppose this is building up to Prowl redeeming himself/finding hope in becoming a combiner, and Wheeljack being there could lead to him as well, Ironhide is also pretty prominent here, those rumored figures begin to make more sense
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686527)
Posted by prjkt on May 16th, 2015 @ 9:43pm CDT
Seems to be a running theme atm - the reason behind's Rewind's actions in Megatron's past, I wonder if it's a slow build up to another Dark Cybertron style crossover, where instead of Shockwave destroying the universe to power Cybertron, it's Prowl (?) destroying Cybertron to save the universe?
Edit: is that Bumblebee's electrified walking stick in Prowl's hands on the epilogue cover?
Posted by prjkt on May 16th, 2015 @ 9:43pm CDT
Shuttershock wrote:Ginrai Minor wrote:If only CW Prime toy actually looked like the art, he would be such a beautiful juggernaut. Also I have mixed feelings about(but overall do like)Prime kinda losing it from all the things his species has been through and his flaws i.e. control issues.
But bruh Prowl is full goneeeee
Prowl has come to the conclusion that Cybertron is beyond saving, and believes that they shouldn't let Caminus or anyone else be pulled down with them.
It'd be noble if it wasn't so bleakly defeatist.
Seems to be a running theme atm - the reason behind's Rewind's actions in Megatron's past, I wonder if it's a slow build up to another Dark Cybertron style crossover, where instead of Shockwave destroying the universe to power Cybertron, it's Prowl (?) destroying Cybertron to save the universe?
Edit: is that Bumblebee's electrified walking stick in Prowl's hands on the epilogue cover?
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686587)
Posted by Nemesis Maximo on May 17th, 2015 @ 12:53am CDT
I hope not. I sincerely hope that Prowl seriously just cracks the shits. I mean. i just love his whole mental deterioration. I hope his head literally exploes from the stresses he deals with.
Not that I hat Prowl, but I really do like his increasingly nihilistic attitude lately.
Posted by Nemesis Maximo on May 17th, 2015 @ 12:53am CDT
MaverickPrime wrote:I suppose this is building up to Prowl redeeming himself/finding hope in becoming a combiner, and Wheeljack being there could lead to him as well, Ironhide is also pretty prominent here, those rumored figures begin to make more sense
I hope not. I sincerely hope that Prowl seriously just cracks the shits. I mean. i just love his whole mental deterioration. I hope his head literally exploes from the stresses he deals with.
Not that I hat Prowl, but I really do like his increasingly nihilistic attitude lately.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686613)
Posted by ZeroWolf on May 17th, 2015 @ 4:40am CDT
This. A thousand times.
If prime combines I hope it's with representatives from superion and defensor. Leave ironhide and that as combiner toys only. Prowl could become a fantastic villian by perspective only. After all I wonder what those on earth feel if they knew that he was trying to stop them from wrecking more planets. In fact I wonder if that's what also led to his talk with spike.
This now makes me realise that galvatron and prowl actually had a very similar goal regarding the enigma. Shame that's really the only thing they have in common, otherwise it would of been the team to beat.
Posted by ZeroWolf on May 17th, 2015 @ 4:40am CDT
Nemesis Maximo wrote:MaverickPrime wrote:I suppose this is building up to Prowl redeeming himself/finding hope in becoming a combiner, and Wheeljack being there could lead to him as well, Ironhide is also pretty prominent here, those rumored figures begin to make more sense
I hope not. I sincerely hope that Prowl seriously just cracks the ****. I mean. i just love his whole mental deterioration. I hope his head literally exploes from the stresses he deals with.
Not that I hat Prowl, but I really do like his increasingly nihilistic attitude lately.
This. A thousand times.
If prime combines I hope it's with representatives from superion and defensor. Leave ironhide and that as combiner toys only. Prowl could become a fantastic villian by perspective only. After all I wonder what those on earth feel if they knew that he was trying to stop them from wrecking more planets. In fact I wonder if that's what also led to his talk with spike.
This now makes me realise that galvatron and prowl actually had a very similar goal regarding the enigma. Shame that's really the only thing they have in common, otherwise it would of been the team to beat.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686707)
Posted by CrankyOldTruck on May 17th, 2015 @ 10:15am CDT
Posted by CrankyOldTruck on May 17th, 2015 @ 10:15am CDT
I am absolutely loving the turn this is taking and the parallels with real life. Time to show people the truth of our society and our leaders, that the vast majority are spineless and that the ones in control are cold, ruthless schemers and that, in the end, it will take a cynical, dispassionate, heartless monster (Prowl) to take down the true monster that is in control.
Maybe if our own society were to wake up and see just how similar this scenario is to our actual existence, we wouldn't be such a worthless mess of a species now. I'm just looking forward to the day that our own "Prowl" rises up and starts kicking ass and setting things right.
Maybe if our own society were to wake up and see just how similar this scenario is to our actual existence, we wouldn't be such a worthless mess of a species now. I'm just looking forward to the day that our own "Prowl" rises up and starts kicking ass and setting things right.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686720)
Posted by Va'al on May 17th, 2015 @ 10:38am CDT
Posted by Va'al on May 17th, 2015 @ 10:38am CDT
Except he's really not a good guy, but has been twisted by the very same people he claims he is fighting against - in a different manner, but still echoing Megatron's rapid downfall during the corrupt Primacy.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686741)
Posted by Nemesis Maximo on May 17th, 2015 @ 11:37am CDT
Oh dude, and to further strengthen your perpendicular parallel to Megatron; while Prowl, who started out wholly concerned with the greater good with good intentions and actions but has now been twisted by what he sees as corrupt government/leadership, Megtron, who started out as disgruntled at the corrupt government/leadership and used mostly malicious methods to enact change now tries to further the greater good with good intentions and actions.
Posted by Nemesis Maximo on May 17th, 2015 @ 11:37am CDT
Va'al wrote:Except he's really not a good guy, but has been twisted by the very same people he claims he is fighting against - in a different manner, but still echoing Megatron's rapid downfall during the corrupt Primacy.
Oh dude, and to further strengthen your perpendicular parallel to Megatron; while Prowl, who started out wholly concerned with the greater good with good intentions and actions but has now been twisted by what he sees as corrupt government/leadership, Megtron, who started out as disgruntled at the corrupt government/leadership and used mostly malicious methods to enact change now tries to further the greater good with good intentions and actions.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686751)
Posted by ZeroWolf on May 17th, 2015 @ 11:56am CDT
Posted by ZeroWolf on May 17th, 2015 @ 11:56am CDT
Well we'll see about megatrons intentions seeing as he...kept a souvenir of brainstorms masterpiece.
Back to prowl, under certain circumstances I could see prowl leading a second generation of decepticons against starscream
Back to prowl, under certain circumstances I could see prowl leading a second generation of decepticons against starscream
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686753)
Posted by Va'al on May 17th, 2015 @ 11:56am CDT
Posted by Va'al on May 17th, 2015 @ 11:56am CDT
I think we need the Inception BWOOOOOOONG right about now.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686772)
Posted by Shuttershock on May 17th, 2015 @ 1:25pm CDT
Given their warm reception to the relatively innocent and naive Camians, I'd expect a large portion of the Decepticons to chose to move there and start over by the end of this.
Posted by Shuttershock on May 17th, 2015 @ 1:25pm CDT
ZeroWolf wrote:Well we'll see about megatrons intentions seeing as he...kept a souvenir of brainstorms masterpiece.
Back to prowl, under certain circumstances I could see prowl leading a second generation of decepticons against starscream
Given their warm reception to the relatively innocent and naive Camians, I'd expect a large portion of the Decepticons to chose to move there and start over by the end of this.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1686773)
Posted by Nemesis Maximo on May 17th, 2015 @ 1:31pm CDT
Posted by Nemesis Maximo on May 17th, 2015 @ 1:31pm CDT
Va'al wrote:I think we need the Inception BWOOOOOOONG right about now.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1687823)
Posted by MrBlack on May 20th, 2015 @ 6:55am CDT
Posted by MrBlack on May 20th, 2015 @ 6:55am CDT
Just read the issue.
Much better than the previous issue. A lot of things that have been brewing for quite a while blow up here.
Much better than the previous issue. A lot of things that have been brewing for quite a while blow up here.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1687827)
Posted by Ironhidensh on May 20th, 2015 @ 7:20am CDT
Posted by Ironhidensh on May 20th, 2015 @ 7:20am CDT
Another "meh" issue. Though they be fair, my negative feelings could be more about the art style, and less about this terrible rushed and forced story. MTMTE is still winning.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1688270)
Posted by King Kuuga on May 21st, 2015 @ 2:01am CDT
Posted by King Kuuga on May 21st, 2015 @ 2:01am CDT
So.....
Scoop in control of Devastator
Menasor on the loose
Superion and Defensor on the ropes
Optimus Maximus on the scene.
Despite all of that, there was relatively little actual combat this issue, compared to setup. At least they're going to end with a big brawl next issue.
Scoop in control of Devastator
Menasor on the loose
Superion and Defensor on the ropes
Optimus Maximus on the scene.
Despite all of that, there was relatively little actual combat this issue, compared to setup. At least they're going to end with a big brawl next issue.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1688362)
Posted by Nemesis Maximo on May 21st, 2015 @ 9:38am CDT
Posted by Nemesis Maximo on May 21st, 2015 @ 9:38am CDT
Aaaaaaaaaand there goes my love of the direction Prowl's character devyhas taken up till now. Hopefully he is still scheming, but I'm so SO so sad that he now combines with Optimus, a leader he has struggled to agree with and can never seem to see optic to optic.
I do kinda like what Starscream did to Scoop, though. It just makes sense.
I do kinda like what Starscream did to Scoop, though. It just makes sense.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1688491)
Posted by King Kuuga on May 21st, 2015 @ 2:41pm CDT
Posted by King Kuuga on May 21st, 2015 @ 2:41pm CDT
For what it's worth, he didn't combine by choice.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1688541)
Posted by MrBlack on May 21st, 2015 @ 4:39pm CDT
Given how the gestalt mind seems to "bleed" between the different members, I wonder how unified in purpose Ultra Prime will be. Mirage, Ironhide, and Sunstreaker are loyal to Optimus, but Prowl is his own bot. He won't be able to "guide" Ultra Prime the same way he tried to "guide" Devastator either. Optimus is too strong a personality, and the rest of the gestalt will follow his lead rather than Prowl's.
On the other hand, if we do see a true merging of personalities, we may just end up seeing a more ruthless than usual version of Optimus.
Posted by MrBlack on May 21st, 2015 @ 4:39pm CDT
Nemesis Maximo wrote:Aaaaaaaaaand there goes my love of the direction Prowl's character devyhas taken up till now. Hopefully he is still scheming, but I'm so SO so sad that he now combines with Optimus, a leader he has struggled to agree with and can never seem to see optic to optic.
I do kinda like what Starscream did to Scoop, though. It just makes sense.
Given how the gestalt mind seems to "bleed" between the different members, I wonder how unified in purpose Ultra Prime will be. Mirage, Ironhide, and Sunstreaker are loyal to Optimus, but Prowl is his own bot. He won't be able to "guide" Ultra Prime the same way he tried to "guide" Devastator either. Optimus is too strong a personality, and the rest of the gestalt will follow his lead rather than Prowl's.
On the other hand, if we do see a true merging of personalities, we may just end up seeing a more ruthless than usual version of Optimus.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1688591)
Posted by BATTLEMASTER IIC on May 21st, 2015 @ 6:10pm CDT
Posted by BATTLEMASTER IIC on May 21st, 2015 @ 6:10pm CDT
Or perhaps due to the mind melding that occurs during combination, Prowl might see things Prime's way and develop a more respectful understanding.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1688779)
Posted by Nemesis Maximo on May 22nd, 2015 @ 4:04am CDT
That's what I'm afraid of. Prowl losing the character development and becoming a straight up good guy.
Posted by Nemesis Maximo on May 22nd, 2015 @ 4:04am CDT
BATTLEMASTER IIC wrote:Or perhaps due to the mind melding that occurs during combination, Prowl might see things Prime's way and develop a more respectful understanding.
That's what I'm afraid of. Prowl losing the character development and becoming a straight up good guy.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1688957)
Posted by Va'al on May 22nd, 2015 @ 12:03pm CDT
Posted by Va'al on May 22nd, 2015 @ 12:03pm CDT
Alex update: Review will be up by Saturday morning. Sorry about the delay, it's been manic this side of the screen.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1688975)
Posted by SW's SilverHammer on May 22nd, 2015 @ 12:47pm CDT
Posted by SW's SilverHammer on May 22nd, 2015 @ 12:47pm CDT
Hey uh, has windblade #3(?) been delayed till next month?
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1688977)
Posted by Va'al on May 22nd, 2015 @ 12:48pm CDT
Posted by Va'al on May 22nd, 2015 @ 12:48pm CDT
Apparently so.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1689428)
Posted by Va'al on May 23rd, 2015 @ 10:48am CDT
Synopsis
DESPERATE ACTIONS! As the SPACEBRIDGE reaches across the stars, will anyone stand against STARSCREAM? The answer is yes—but the cure might prove worse than the disease.
Maybe he actually cares! (...)
Story
The IDW Transformers Combiner Wars Mairghread Scott/John Barber crossover arc switches back for its fourth chapter to The Transformers ongoing, and its writer Barber, with the current playing field riddled by ruins, frustrated Cybertronians, understandably scared Camiens, ambiguous pretty much everyone else, and several schemers on the loose, of course.
Quick recap, thanks
If Starscream is made to be the most explicit in his intentions for the future of Cybertron (and its problematic status of 'homeland' or 'centre of the universe') - and he does get to play a lot with all his little, and not so little, secrets - the real focus in this issue is undoubtedly Prowl, and the enormous quantity of turmoil he carries with him.
And Bob, obviously
Baggage that he has carried for a very very long time, admittedly, and always bubbling just beneath the surface. The long conversation, the effective backbone of this book, between Prowl and Optimus Prime, is a very good example of the type of emotional level that Barber can tap into in more serious storylines, and reveals a Prowl with actual feelings, disguised under a veneer of cold calculation.
That's.. quite a list
A possibly slower issue in its first acts, with some expected combiner fights as it progresses, an entirely expected twist at the very end (though one I am very curious as to how it will play out, and well executed nonetheless) and some well staged tension between the various characters used at the centre of the story, and a very good addition to the event so far.
Art
As Livio Ramondelli keeps to interior art duties, we see a massive difference from the previous, supposedly rushed, issue - the lines and colours for the characters, especially in their expressivity (both in body language and facial), are stunningly executed, and work really effectively for the serious tones and rising tides of the story and their interactions.
A mighty fine Windblade, right there
I will have a little moment here, as there is a wonderful chromatic game being played out in the issue, with the big opposition of darkened reds (cells and optics) and blues (Spacebridge and shadows) - with some almost unexpected yellows. And they serve as backdrop for the different scenes, ultimately exploding in a much brighter, much open landscape in the finale, under the aegis of the Spacebridge.
Not shown here - have some sky instead
Tom B. Long provides the usual masterful font and lettering work, grounding the dialogue and the locations in where the reader needs them to be, and gets some fun moments in transitions, too. As for the covers, we get the magnificent Emperor Starscream by Casey Coller/Joana Lafuente, a first half of Ramondelli's Optimus Prime poster cover, and the thumbnailed (perhaps another Marcelo Matere piece? Hasbro - credits please) Optimus Maximus.
Thoughts
Spoilerish ahead
As I've said above, the issue plays a very interesting, if initially slower, game of revealing tensions and starting to prod at them without exploding until the very very end. And it was a strategy that, for me, really paid off - it shows Prowl's inner workings in a lot of ways, without removing the build-up he has received so far, and shows just how much of Optimus' influence can sway the game (and the franchise, really).
It's.. still.. coming.
We get even more on how combiner technology may not just be a technology of combination, but something a little deeper, and the beginnings of some serious power plays on all sides involved in this sudden, strange, large-scale war. And it all plays out across some closed spaces that quickly become uncomfortable for readers and characters alike - though in a good, captivating way. Next, the sort of conclusion!
Posted by Va'al on May 23rd, 2015 @ 10:48am CDT
Orange is the New Green
(Spoiler free-ish)
(Spoiler free-ish)
Synopsis
DESPERATE ACTIONS! As the SPACEBRIDGE reaches across the stars, will anyone stand against STARSCREAM? The answer is yes—but the cure might prove worse than the disease.
Maybe he actually cares! (...)
Story
The IDW Transformers Combiner Wars Mairghread Scott/John Barber crossover arc switches back for its fourth chapter to The Transformers ongoing, and its writer Barber, with the current playing field riddled by ruins, frustrated Cybertronians, understandably scared Camiens, ambiguous pretty much everyone else, and several schemers on the loose, of course.
Quick recap, thanks
If Starscream is made to be the most explicit in his intentions for the future of Cybertron (and its problematic status of 'homeland' or 'centre of the universe') - and he does get to play a lot with all his little, and not so little, secrets - the real focus in this issue is undoubtedly Prowl, and the enormous quantity of turmoil he carries with him.
And Bob, obviously
Baggage that he has carried for a very very long time, admittedly, and always bubbling just beneath the surface. The long conversation, the effective backbone of this book, between Prowl and Optimus Prime, is a very good example of the type of emotional level that Barber can tap into in more serious storylines, and reveals a Prowl with actual feelings, disguised under a veneer of cold calculation.
That's.. quite a list
A possibly slower issue in its first acts, with some expected combiner fights as it progresses, an entirely expected twist at the very end (though one I am very curious as to how it will play out, and well executed nonetheless) and some well staged tension between the various characters used at the centre of the story, and a very good addition to the event so far.
Art
As Livio Ramondelli keeps to interior art duties, we see a massive difference from the previous, supposedly rushed, issue - the lines and colours for the characters, especially in their expressivity (both in body language and facial), are stunningly executed, and work really effectively for the serious tones and rising tides of the story and their interactions.
A mighty fine Windblade, right there
I will have a little moment here, as there is a wonderful chromatic game being played out in the issue, with the big opposition of darkened reds (cells and optics) and blues (Spacebridge and shadows) - with some almost unexpected yellows. And they serve as backdrop for the different scenes, ultimately exploding in a much brighter, much open landscape in the finale, under the aegis of the Spacebridge.
Not shown here - have some sky instead
Tom B. Long provides the usual masterful font and lettering work, grounding the dialogue and the locations in where the reader needs them to be, and gets some fun moments in transitions, too. As for the covers, we get the magnificent Emperor Starscream by Casey Coller/Joana Lafuente, a first half of Ramondelli's Optimus Prime poster cover, and the thumbnailed (perhaps another Marcelo Matere piece? Hasbro - credits please) Optimus Maximus.
Thoughts
Spoilerish ahead
As I've said above, the issue plays a very interesting, if initially slower, game of revealing tensions and starting to prod at them without exploding until the very very end. And it was a strategy that, for me, really paid off - it shows Prowl's inner workings in a lot of ways, without removing the build-up he has received so far, and shows just how much of Optimus' influence can sway the game (and the franchise, really).
It's.. still.. coming.
We get even more on how combiner technology may not just be a technology of combination, but something a little deeper, and the beginnings of some serious power plays on all sides involved in this sudden, strange, large-scale war. And it all plays out across some closed spaces that quickly become uncomfortable for readers and characters alike - though in a good, captivating way. Next, the sort of conclusion!
. out of
out of
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1689445)
Posted by Bounti76 on May 23rd, 2015 @ 11:25am CDT
Posted by Bounti76 on May 23rd, 2015 @ 11:25am CDT
I was wondering when this post would show up. 
I quite enjoyed this issue, and even Livio's art wasn't distracting until all the combiners started fighting. It was hard to figure out what was happening to which combiner in the last few pages.
I quite enjoyed this issue, and even Livio's art wasn't distracting until all the combiners started fighting. It was hard to figure out what was happening to which combiner in the last few pages.
Re: IDW Transformers: Combiner Wars - Windblade #2 Review (1689449)
Posted by Va'al on May 23rd, 2015 @ 11:34am CDT
Posted by Va'al on May 23rd, 2015 @ 11:34am CDT
I have been silly busy. And sleep deprived.
Finally had time to finish the review.
Finally had time to finish the review.
