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How much can one hero handle?
That becomes the question looming around the greatest Autobot of all. Since their debut in the Energon Universe, Optimus Prime and his team of Autobots have suffered grave losses.
From Bubblebee to Sparky Whitwicky, the gravity of the never ending war with the Decepticons is taking a toll.
Now entering a new phase with their enemies under new leadership, can Optimus rally one more time before all is lost?
TRANSFORMERS #9 by DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON, JORGE CORONA, MIKE SPICER AND RUS WOOTEN (Credit: Image Comics via Skybound Entertainment) is poised to have fans talking at the LCS this week.
It’s a big issue and that requires a joint review! Heading up this discussion is N.I. Comics assistant Editor Marty Stoked and yours truly (Ken – EIC). Let’s see how the battle rages onward!
LET’S TALK ABOUT THE STORY!
Ken: The Soundwave era has delved into the ruthlessness of the most loyal Decepticon. Johnson adding Shockwave into the mix raises the stakes of conflict. Their attack shows no mercy to an already reeling Autoboyts group. In the writing, Prime never waivers from his mission to save the Earth from their invaders. Even in a losing effort, his drive is unquestionable.
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The fight set-up is everything you want from Transformers. Plus, with Johnson being a huge wrestling fan, the usage of a certain driver doesn’t miss hitting its mark in the story. Outside factors are added into the already combustible mix. This causes a highly emotional moment that should have grave ramifications. The closing pages look to build off of the new wave of faces readers see added into the mix. How this will all play out is anyone’s guess. You won’t want to miss the ride!
Marty: This series continues to be one of my favorite monthly pulls, and this issue upholds that trend beautifully. The stakes are sky-high with Shockwave now in the mix! For long-time fans of Transformers, his mere appearance sends a shiver of anticipation, while new readers will immediately grasp the magnitude of his threat through expertly crafted dialogue. If you’ve read Do a Power Bomb, you’ll find some of the fight scenes here reminiscent of that book, adding an extra layer of enjoyment. The turmoil and struggle for survival are palpable, bleeding through the conversations of the Autobots with gripping intensity.
HOW ABOUT THE ART AND LETTERING?
Ken: Shockwave makes a proper grand entrance with a near full page panel. Readers can instantly see how the story turns in favor of the mood and pacing. Corona, Spicer and Wooten bring the action with some incredible fight sequences. There is a strong mix of wrestling and brawling that will have fans on the edge of their seats. Its’ fallout conveys an uneasiness for what lies ahead. A small panel featuring a Transformers’ fear is an image that hits its’ mark. The closing pages switches gears. It will have fans curious on where the journey goes now.
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Marty: The stylistic approach of the art continues to evoke that beloved 80s cartoon vibe, while also infusing the characters with a remarkable depth of emotional resilience. The action sequences are top-notch, keeping readers perched on the edge of their seats. Shockwave’s introduction is particularly noteworthy, with his menacing design and interactions underscoring the immediate danger faced by the Autobots. The colors by Mike Spicer are vibrant, effectively conveying the overall emotion and tone of the narrative, while also driving the pacing of the issue. Rus Wooton’s lettering is exceptional, especially when the onomatopoeia hits the page, making you almost hear the Transformers transform.
FINAL GRADES:
Ken: 9
Shuffling the deck with a new Decepticon lead has worked wonders for an already near perfect series. Johnson pressures the Autobots into struggling depths with creative writing. The art carries a large and loud sense of the non-stop action. Corona and the team construct a fast billing conflict that fans won’t want to stop. There is no question on why this series is in such high demand.
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Marty: 9
Transformers #9 masterfully balances nostalgia and innovation, delivering a thrilling narrative that appeals to both long-time fans and new readers. The creative team has outdone themselves, with a compelling storyline, dynamic art, vibrant colors, and immersive lettering. The inclusion of Shockwave escalates the tension to new heights, making this issue a standout in the series. Overall, it’s an exhilarating chapter in the Transformers saga that leaves you eagerly anticipating the next installment.
