Transformers #8 Review: Calm Before the Storm

Transformers #8

Review

Rating

9

Good

Writer: Daniel Warren Johnson

Artist: Jorge Corona

Publisher: Image Comics

Release Date: May 8, 2024

Page Count: 32

Format: Single-issue

With an issue loaded with multiple story threads, Transformers #8 lays the groundwork for intriguing developments as the Autobots and Decepticons prepare for the steps in their timeless battle.

Transformers #8

Review

Writer: Daniel Warren Johnson

Artist: Jorge Corona

Publisher: Image Comics

Release Date: May 8, 2024

Page Count: 32

Format: Single-issue

With an issue loaded with multiple story threads, Transformers #8 lays the groundwork for intriguing developments as the Autobots and Decepticons prepare for the steps in their timeless battle.

Rating

9

Good

If there’s one word that best describes Daniel Warren Johnson’s run on Transformers, it’s “consistent”. Not only has the series kept up a monthly release schedule since debuting last October, but each issue has been a wild ride that shows no signs of slowing down. Now that it’s on its second arc, with artist Jorge Corona on illustrations, Transformers continues to gear up for another action-packed and emotionally gripping story. Issue #8 is the latest drop in the series and it’s packed with plenty of surprises that new and old fans will enjoy. Keep on reading for my full review of the issue! 

Overview

In the ongoing battle between the Autobots and the Decepticons, both sides continue to prepare for the next step in their plans. While the Autobots work to figure out how to revive their fallen comrades, the Decepticons embark on a mission to unearth their missing ship that crashlanded on Earth. Ultimately, both sides believe they hold the key to turning the tide of war. Meanwhile, the war on Cybertron rages on as Elita rescues a fallen hero many thought to have been lost in battle. 

Image: Skybound

Review

This latest one is a very loaded issue, but it’s also surprisingly light on action. Even though there are some intense moments with rockets being fired and fists meeting faces, this issue is more focused on developing the various story threads happening throughout the different sides of the battle. However, I use the word “focus” loosely because the cuts from scene to scene happen at a breakneck speed. The story shows that both the Autobots and Decepticons are still reeling from the massive battle in Transformers #6. But despite juggling so many different storylines within just 32 pages, the developments across each story add plenty of intrigue to the new arc. Die-hard fans will also be happy to see some fan favorites finally make their surprising first appearance in the series. 

More than anything, this issue shows that the series does not need to be balls-to-the-wall action every time to be a compelling read. One of Daniel Warren Johnson’s strengths as a creator has always been his well-rounded understanding of characters. With story threads developing with Optimus Prime, Soundwave, Elita at Cybertron, and even Arcee and Carly, it feels like every main character in the series has something unique and meaningful going on. I see this issue as Johnson setting up all the different pieces on a chessboard as both sides prepare for their next big move in the story.

Image: Skybound

Speaking of creators in this book, I can’t end this review without talking about the killer work put in by the art team. This series, alongside Skottie Young’s Ain’t No Grave, has quickly made me a big fan of Jorge Corona’s energetic art style. Whether it’s humans or the Transformers, characters are drawn with such bold expressions that every moment feels fun to read through. And because this issue explores so many story threads, the colors by Mike Spicer and letters by Rus Wooton bring so much energy and life to the different scenes.

Image: Skybound

Final Thoughts

Because of how loaded this issue is with multiple stories developing simultaneously, it’s impressive that everything still meshes very well together. The comic feels like a well-oiled machine that’s firing on cylinders. Even though this may be one of the lesser action-oriented issues in the series, I’m hooked on seeing where the different characters and factions go from here. I’m particularly interested in seeing more of Optimus’ personal story play out, as the memories of Sparky seem to be messing with his head more. Then with Soundwave getting more unhinged and shrewd as a leader of the Decepticons, this second story arc is gearing up to be much more emotionally charged than the first. 

Why You Should Read Transformers

• The multiple story threads all have intriguing developments.
• Jorge Corona’s art continues to be stellar for this series. 
• It’s great to see more fan-favorite characters start to pop up in the story.