Transformers #10
Review
Writer: Daniel Warren Johnson
Artist: Jorge Corona
Publisher: Skybound
Release Date: July 10, 2024
Page Count: 32
Format: Single-issue
Transformers #10 delivers a character-driven issue that sets up big things for the upcoming climax. While we learn more about the history of the Autobots, we also see just how evil the Decepticons can be. This is an issue that can’t be missed.
Transformers #10
ReviewWriter: Daniel Warren Johnson
Artist: Jorge Corona
Publisher: Skybound
Release Date: July 10, 2024
Page Count: 32
Format: Single-issue
Transformers #10 delivers a character-driven issue that sets up big things for the upcoming climax. While we learn more about the history of the Autobots, we also see just how evil the Decepticons can be. This is an issue that can’t be missed.
The hype train that is Skybound’s Energon Universe is something to behold. It’s been banger after banger for over a year, and the comic book sitting atop many readers’ lists is Transformers by Daniel Warren Johnson and Jorge Corona. It’s even got long-time fans of the franchise claiming the series has the best versions of Optimus Prime and Starscream we’ve ever seen. But as much as the first story arc turned plenty of heads with its bombastic action and fantastic character writing, the second arc has proven to be even bigger and better. This latest issue is packed with plenty of surprises readers won’t want to miss. So, keep on reading for my full review of Transformers #10!
Overview
After their intense battle, the Autobots and Decepticons recuperate to plan their next moves. While Elita One comes to terms with reuniting with Optimus Prime and the rest of the Autobots, Beachcomber tells Spike his story of his time on Earth. Then, in the Decepticons' side of things, Shockwave reveals what he’s been cooking up since he stepped foot on Earth. It turns out the Decepticon mastermind has a grand scheme up his sleeve that will catch everyone by surprise.
Image: Skybound
Review
Coming from the action-packed story in Transformers #9, this latest issue slows things down to deliver one of the most compelling character-driven installments in the series yet. With story developments centered on Beachcomber, Elita One, and Shockwave, Transformers #10 is an issue with plenty of moving parts that add so much depth to the narrative. Shockwave, particularly, steals the show again here. Even though he’s only appeared in the series for around two issues, his actions have quickly become the story’s main focal point. Not only that, but the way other characters talk about him with such fear and reverence also sets him up as a major threat in the Energon Universe. I’ll admit that, as a big Soundwave fan, it irks me a bit that Shockwave is taking some shine away from my boy as of late. But with how threatening and terrifying Shockwave is presented in every scene he’s in, I adore the fresh dynamic he brings to the story.
Given this is such a character-driven issue, it shows why Daniel Warren Johnson is deservedly one of the most popular comic book creators today. As much as this series delivers some of the slickest action scenes in comics, the character writing is what makes reading the Transformers so satisfying. All the new additions to the cast in this second arc have made the world of Transformers feel more robust than ever before. Even though characters like Optimus Prime and Starscream will always get the most spotlight, it's refreshing to see lesser-known characters like Beachcomber and Cliffjumper offer so much to the story as well. It leaves me excited to see who pops up in the story next.
Image: SkyboundBut beyond the incredible writing, let’s not forget the phenomenal work by Jorge Corona, Mike Spicer, and Rus Wooton. By this point, Corona has solidified himself as a fantastic lead illustrator for this comic series. I’m always in awe of the emotions he puts into the different characters, whether they’re fighting for their lives or sharing intimate conversations. In this issue especially, with so many storylines developing in one, you get a wide range of scenes and emotions throughout the packed story. Everything then culminates in a final stretch of killer pages that set up big things for the finale of the second story arc. In a series that has delivered so many big moments, the new developments that drop at the end of this issue feel like the biggest yet. It’s a massive moment that fans of the series don’t want to miss, as the series revs its engines for the upcoming climax.
Image: SkyboundFinal Thoughts
While Transformers #10 may be what people call a “transitional issue,“ it delivers plenty of big story and character developments going into the final parts of the second story arc. It’s a testament to how good the series is as each issue continues to feel like a must-read. Even in parts when the high-octane action takes a backseat, the series treats readers to an issue that raises the stakes for all the major players in the story. So if it isn’t already the case, then Transformers deserves an essential spot in everyone’s monthly pull list. It’s a comic book that’s just that good.
Why You Should Read Transformers
- Daniel Warren Johnson is fantastic at fleshing out the different characters in the story.
- This issue’s stinger page sets up a massive development for the tail end of this story arc.
- Jorge Corona continues to kill it as the lead artist in this run.