Transformers #36 Review – From One Threat To Another

Transformers #36 (Image Comics, 9/9/26): Writer Robert Kirkman & artist Jason Howard unveil the might of Cobra-La to the Transformers as a threat waiting to assert itself, while the Decepticons find a new weapon. Kirkman’s script feels like the end of the transition period without truly resolving anything. Verdict: A decent issue that lacks focus.

• Writer: Robert Kirkman
• Artist: Jason Howard
• Colorist: Mike Spicer
• Letterer: Rus Wooton
• Cover Artist: David Nakayama (cover A)
• Publisher: Image Comics
• Release Date: September 9, 2026
• Comic Rating: Teen
• Cover Price: $3.99
• Page Count: 32
• Format: Single Issue

Covers:

Analysis of Transformers #36:

First Impressions:

I’ve been a fan of the series since the beginning, but it’s floundered of late, mainly due to Kirkman’s lack of focus and a clear arc to sink your teeth into. Here, Kirkman appears to be tying up some of the loose ends, which is a step in the right direction.

Recap:

In Transformers #35, Wheeljack continued developing a Cybertronian exo-suit in the Shard, unaware that a damaged and deranged Starscream had crossed the ocean and was trying to break in, while Optimus discovered Cliffjumper struggling to keep Shredhead alive after the battle with Bruticus. The group eventually converged at Shadow Watch, where Wheeljack was disgusted to learn that Dr. Arkeville had stabilized Shredhead using parts from a deceased Decepticon. Meanwhile, Thundercracker led the Aerialbots into the frozen North in search of a hidden entrance, only to be ambushed by Skywarp, trigger an avalanche, and find themselves confronted by a squad of Cobra-La soldiers.

Plot Analysis (SPOILERS):

Transformers #36 begins in the middle of battle. Thundercracker, Skywarp, and the Aerialbots are ambushed by General Orbulon and the forces of Cobra-La. Ground troops are easily outmatched, but the General calls in the big bugs to even the score. When the balance of power shifts, the Aerialbots combine to form Superion and drive the Cobra-La forces back. All Transformers flee to their respective headquarters when the Cobra-La forces regroup.

Meanwhile, Dr. Arkeville and Wheeljack work together to revive Shredhead, giving Optimus a boost in confidence about their alliance with General Flagg. Dr. Arkeville revels in all the new information he learned from the Transformers, which he uses to create rockets that shoot disabled Decepticons into space for a long journey back to Cybertron.

While Wheeljack is away, Starscream infiltrates the Shard and heals himself with the available tech. He also finds the strange experiment Wheeljack was working on. The issue ends with humans wearing exo-suits constructed by Wheeljack to help repair Chicago, and Beachcomber obtaining a tracking device from Hound to look for more Autobots.

How is the story in Transformers #36?

Robert Kirkman’s script feels like an end that transitions into a beginning, while other things are still happening. Again, the main criticism of the most recent issues is a general lack of focus and sense of direction. That problem still exists here, but wrapping up a few dangling threads gives you a sense that Kirkman is cleaning up the clutter in anticipation of something more meaningful.

To be fair, the individual bits and pieces are good to great. The trouble is the lack of cohesion that puts it all together into a complete story.

How is the art in Transformers #36?

Jason Howard’s artwork excels at capturing the scope and scale of Transformers in combat, especially during the opening battle with Cobra-la. Howard’s linework is clean and dynamic; he makes excellent use of moving textures to express impact and force during the battle scenes, and his rendition of familiar characters is spot on. Furthermore, Mike Spicer’s use of color to craft the snowy landscape and overcast skies looks amazing in stark contrast to the typical pop in the Transformer designs.

Characters

Due to the scattered plot in this issue, it’s tough to tell where to focus and which character brings the reader along. If we go by pure volume of dialog, Optimus has the most character time as he weighs his relationship with General Flagg and whether or not a team-up with the humans is hiding some type of gotcha. Optimus’s interaction with Flagg works well enough to establish a somewhat new status quo, but the future is uncertain.

Originality & Concept Execution

The big draw for the Energon Universe is the crossover between G.I. Joe and Transformers. Here, Cobra-La asserts itself more than in any previous issue, and the name-drop of Pythona also reminds the readers of the connection to Void Rivals. A Hasbro-property crossover is the sustaining original concept, but given how long it’s taking Skybound to build up to what will likely be a big crossover, it remains to be seen.

Pros and Cons

What We Loved

• Excellent art
• A new (sort of) status quo for Optimus & Cobra-La
• Wheeljack’s secret is intriguing

Room for Improvement

• Too many loose ends & lack of focus
• Wheeljack’s secret risks dragging on too long
• The exo-suits for humans was introduced and implemented too quickly.

Art Samples:

The Scorecard:

Writing Quality (Clarity & Pacing): 3/4
Art Quality (Execution & Synergy): 3.5/4
Value (Originality & Entertainment): 1/2

Final Thoughts:

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Transformers #36 wraps up a few loose ends and brings Cobra-La into the Transformers story in the big way. Robert Kirkman’s script still feels like we’re in a transition period, but one that’s coming into focus. Fortunately, Jason Howard’s artwork makes the one big battle shine.

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