TRANSFORMERS #3, by Image Comics on 12/6/23, brings the casualties of war to the humans’ doorstep when the Autobots and Decepticons duke it out in the middle of town.
The Details
- Written by: Daniel Warren Johnson
- Art by: Daniel Warren Johnson
- Colors by: Mike Spicer
- Letters by: Rus Wooton
- Cover art by: Daniel Warren Jonson, Mike Spicer (cover A)
- Comic Rating: Teen
- Cover price: $3.99
- Release date: December 6, 2023
Is TRANSFORMERS #3 Good?
Oh, how fragile and soft humans are when compared to the metal might of a Transformer. Unfortunately, the humans in TRANSFORMERS #3 painfully learn that lesson when the Autobots and Decepticons tussle amid an armed and panicking human population. Daniel Warren Johnson has done well to elevate the Transformers with a more grounded, edgier take on the source, and this issue is no exception.
When last we left the Transformers, Optimus Prime saw firsthand how Transformer bodies are like a bull in a China Shop on Earth. The Decepticons came to the same conclusion when they raided a power plant to replenish their Energon supply. Now, Laserbeak, Cliffjumper, Skywarp, and more begin a skirmish in the middle of town while Sparky leads an armed posse to fight back.
Between Void Rivals and Transformers, Image has made a habit of sneaking in little Easter Eggs to cross-pollinate one property’s story with another. This time, there’s no crossover cameo or Energon Universe reference to be found. At least, not one that’s obvious.
What’s great about TRANSFORMERS #3? If you like you’re Transformers to engage in all-out action brawling, you’re in for a treat. The hits come hard and fast, and Optimus Prime shows readers he’s fully committed to a fight once it starts.
What’s not so great about TRANSFORMERS #3? After three issues, the plot has yet to fully emerge. The Transformers are here, and in a roundabout way, each faction is in a race to see who can repair and revive more allies first, but is that all there is? The issue ends on a decent cliffhanger, but the series still feels like it’s spending time to get the world and characters established without delivering a big, memorable moment.
How’s the art? The art is quintessential Daniel Warren Johnson. The fight crackles with energy, and the tense moments hang in the air like a bubble about to burst. Johnson is one of the best artists around when it comes to fighting choreography, and it shows here.
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What’s TRANSFORMERS #3 About?
[SPOILERS AHEAD – Click here if you just want the score without spoilers]
Check out our TRANSFORMERS #2 review to find out how Carly’s dad met an untimely end.
We begin with Sparky telling Carly about her dad. Before Carly has time to grieve and get the full story, Laserbeak smashes through the door and attacks Sparky. Soon, Cliffjumper arrives to defend the humans against the metal bird. However, Sparky isn’t picking sides, and he opens fire on Cliffjumper to buy time for him and Carly to drive away.
In town, Sparky gathers a posse of armed civilians against all robots. Cliffjumper shows up again to offer assistance, but Laserbeak’s call for help summons Skywarp to attack. Optimus Prime and Spike hear the raucous and speed toward town to help. We conclude the issue with big hits, catastrophic crossfire, and the sound of one hand clapping.
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Final Thoughts
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TRANSFORMERS #3 elevates the action and the danger to humans when the warring Transformers and armed civilians create a flashfire of destruction. Johnson’s edgier take on the Transformers gives the scenario a grounded, dramatic feel, and Johnson’s art is action-packed. That said, the plot lacks substance after three issues.
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