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Transformers (2023)
Transformers, Vol. 5: Generation One
A new era for THE TRANSFORMERS begins from the brand-new, critically acclaimed creative team of ROBERT KIRKMAN (Invincible, The Walking Dead) and DAN MORA (Justice League Unlimited, Superman)!
ROBERT KIRKMAN AND DAN MORA START A NEW ERA FOR TRANSFORMERS!
The Energon Universe will never be the same as the Autobots and Decepticons kick off the most surprising new chapter in their war on Earth.
Optimus Prime and the Autobots must join forces with unlikely allies in order to protect their adopted planet. But Prime’s next challenge lies closer to home than he ever imagined.
Also, after their epic defeat, where are the Decepticons?
The creative dream team of Robert Kirkman (Invincible, The Walking Dead) and Dan Mora (Justice League Unlimited, Superman) kick off the new direction for TRANSFORMERS that will be More Than Meets The Eye!
Collects TRANSFORMERS #25-30.
ROBERT KIRKMAN AND DAN MORA START A NEW ERA FOR TRANSFORMERS!
The Energon Universe will never be the same as the Autobots and Decepticons kick off the most surprising new chapter in their war on Earth.
Optimus Prime and the Autobots must join forces with unlikely allies in order to protect their adopted planet. But Prime’s next challenge lies closer to home than he ever imagined.
Also, after their epic defeat, where are the Decepticons?
The creative dream team of Robert Kirkman (Invincible, The Walking Dead) and Dan Mora (Justice League Unlimited, Superman) kick off the new direction for TRANSFORMERS that will be More Than Meets The Eye!
Collects TRANSFORMERS #25-30.
144 pages, Paperback
First published May 26, 2026
About the author
Robert Kirkman
2,632 books7,172 followersRobert Kirkman is an American comic book writer best known for his work on The Walking Dead, Invincible for Image Comics, as well as Ultimate X-Men and Marvel Zombies for Marvel Comics. He has also collaborated with Image Comics co-founder Todd McFarlane on the series Haunt. He is one of the five partners of Image Comics, and the only one of the five who was not one of the original co-founders of that publisher.
Robert Kirkman's first comic books were self-published under his own Funk-o-Tron label. Along with childhood friend Tony Moore, Kirkman created Battle Pope which was published in late 2001. Battle Pope ran for over 2 years along with other Funk-o-Tron published books such as InkPunks and Double Take.
In July of 2002, Robert's first work for another company began, with a 4-part SuperPatriot series for Image, along with Battle Pope backup story artist Cory Walker. Robert's creator-owned projects followed shortly thereafter, including Tech Jacket, Invincible and Walking Dead.
Robert Kirkman's first comic books were self-published under his own Funk-o-Tron label. Along with childhood friend Tony Moore, Kirkman created Battle Pope which was published in late 2001. Battle Pope ran for over 2 years along with other Funk-o-Tron published books such as InkPunks and Double Take.
In July of 2002, Robert's first work for another company began, with a 4-part SuperPatriot series for Image, along with Battle Pope backup story artist Cory Walker. Robert's creator-owned projects followed shortly thereafter, including Tech Jacket, Invincible and Walking Dead.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
July 20, 2026
"What is it we hope to achieve?"
"Domination ? Conquest? Oppression?"
"Peace! But how will we achieve this? Through Domination! Oppression! And Conquest!
Peace through Tyranny."
Megatron gets his guys pumped...
A Refresh of the Transformers brand through an established Writer and Artist got me back on board.
Potential possibilities are exciting and in eager to watch..
"Domination ? Conquest? Oppression?"
"Peace! But how will we achieve this? Through Domination! Oppression! And Conquest!
Peace through Tyranny."
Megatron gets his guys pumped...
A Refresh of the Transformers brand through an established Writer and Artist got me back on board.
Potential possibilities are exciting and in eager to watch..
June 7, 2026
Even from the cover I knew this was going to feel different. Don’t get me wrong - the transition in terms of characters from DWJ to Kirkman breezed as smooth as you could ask for.
But the ‘feel’ I’m talking about… is the emotions you are left with you once hit the end of the book. Yes, it had many cool moments here. The opening scene with Megatron’s speech is probably one of the best scenes in the series so far. And THAT scene with him, too, was something I’ve never seen before.
But something is missing here. Amidst the twists and big battles… the honesty that was so charming with DWJ’s edition, which to me was the main reason I fell in love with the books, seems to have faded in this volume. The flashy Dan Mora style, just feels too polished for the gritty, raw tone that DWJ had set.
I want to say that I truly love this volume, but idk man. I hope it does get better and I do trust Kirkman. But as of this read, I honestly do feel that it’s the weakest amongst the 5. I hope he proves me wrong with the next
But the ‘feel’ I’m talking about… is the emotions you are left with you once hit the end of the book. Yes, it had many cool moments here. The opening scene with Megatron’s speech is probably one of the best scenes in the series so far. And THAT scene with him, too, was something I’ve never seen before.
But something is missing here. Amidst the twists and big battles… the honesty that was so charming with DWJ’s edition, which to me was the main reason I fell in love with the books, seems to have faded in this volume. The flashy Dan Mora style, just feels too polished for the gritty, raw tone that DWJ had set.
I want to say that I truly love this volume, but idk man. I hope it does get better and I do trust Kirkman. But as of this read, I honestly do feel that it’s the weakest amongst the 5. I hope he proves me wrong with the next
June 28, 2026
Pretty great still!
The new creative team of Robert Kirkman and Dan Mora is a great choice from Warren Johnson and Corona
I really liked Thundercracker's arc this volume, he had a fun interesting arc this volume.
I like where the volume ended, with an interesting development for the next volume, though I didn't understand how Elita got to Earth. She was on Cybertron wishing for more assistance and then all of a sudden she's on Earth with no explanation!
I'm very excited to keep reading!
4☆
The new creative team of Robert Kirkman and Dan Mora is a great choice from Warren Johnson and Corona
I really liked Thundercracker's arc this volume, he had a fun interesting arc this volume.
I like where the volume ended, with an interesting development for the next volume, though I didn't understand how Elita got to Earth. She was on Cybertron wishing for more assistance and then all of a sudden she's on Earth with no explanation!
I'm very excited to keep reading!
4☆
September 7, 2026
Transformers turns a corner as Robert Kirkman takes over from Daniel Warren Johnson. Dan Mora on art too means that a gritty, propulsive, occasionally impenetrable series is now flashy, shiny, clean. But something's lost in the shift. It's not quite dull - mostly, it's just not bonkers.
There's a lot of speechifying, particularly from Megatron in his ocean lair. Humans also take a larger role as the Autobots join forces with a slightly shady military in exchange for Energon. The ending sees a passing of the torch, but instead of being an exciting change, it's portrayed as a deeply solemn shift - again, blander than you'd expect.
Nothing terrible, I just didn't come out of Generation One with a goofy grin.
There's a lot of speechifying, particularly from Megatron in his ocean lair. Humans also take a larger role as the Autobots join forces with a slightly shady military in exchange for Energon. The ending sees a passing of the torch, but instead of being an exciting change, it's portrayed as a deeply solemn shift - again, blander than you'd expect.
Nothing terrible, I just didn't come out of Generation One with a goofy grin.
July 22, 2026
Decent way to stop the back and forth between Earth and Cybertron.
Have the nightmares of Megatron and Optimus been explained and I missed it?
Have the nightmares of Megatron and Optimus been explained and I missed it?
July 3, 2026
After having loved that amazing DWJ run, Kirkman has followed up on this one pretty nicely. The take on Optimus and Megatron has been compelling, as well as Thundercracker, Soundwave and Ultra.
The human moments in this is much lesser, with more focus on the autobots. Mora's artwork is clean and striking but the clear winner since issue 1 for me has been Mike Spicer. The coloring is so eye catching it is impossible to put it down.
The human moments in this is much lesser, with more focus on the autobots. Mora's artwork is clean and striking but the clear winner since issue 1 for me has been Mike Spicer. The coloring is so eye catching it is impossible to put it down.
Review of advance copy
For two years, Daniel Warren Johnson gave us a blockbuster of a run with Skybound Entertainment's Transformers comic, which felt like vindication for long-time fans of the franchise that went through a dark period via the Michael Bay-directed movies. As part of Skybound’s Energon Universe, Johnson may occasionally acknowledge what is happening elsewhere in titles such as G.I. Joe, Transformers told its own story that wrestled with themes about the complications of war and the sincere importance of family.
Although Johnson’s run concluded with an epic battle where the Autobots were victories against the Decepticons, the war is far from over and Earth is still fallen victim to the destruction caused by the robots from another world. From the opening pages of this volume, drawn by Jorge Corona, who was the prominent main artist on the book, we see Megatron escaping after defeat and feeling disgust towards his Decepticons, but he will continue his twisted mission of peace through tyranny. And just like in the classic cartoon, we transitioned from the Deceptions to the Autobots via their respected insignia, and thus a new era begins.
Having started the Energon Universe with the ongoing Void Rivals, it feels like Robert Kirkman had been waiting for so long to write the Transformers. Whilst he has his own ideas about what he wants to do with these characters, he doesn’t negate the sincerity that Johnson established in his run. That is not to say Kirkman has not shown his emotional side in series like The Walking Dead and Invincible – both of which are defined by their shocking violence – but our introduction to Optimus Prime here shows that he is compassionate towards his fellow Transformers and the humans he swore to protect. From an early scene where Optimus briefly talks to a little girl wearing a face mask, mirroring his face guard, Kirkman immediately understands the assignment.
Taking cue from what Johnson established in his run, the war between the Autobots and the Decepticons isn’t a clear case of good versus evil, whether it is some of the Autobots not entirely on board with their leader’s devotion to protect the planet Earth, whilst some Decepticons are having second thoughts over Megatron’s tyrannical rule. While most of the volume is about the aftermath of the Chicago battle with the Autobots and several humans aiding on the rebuilding efforts, a number of characters question their place in this war, which allows for numerous changes in the status quo that shows the story could go anywhere.
With the Transformers themselves doing all the dramatic lifting, the human element isn’t quite as engaging, as although Carly and Spike are still present, it is unknown at this point what their roles are. Introduced during Johnson’s run where he was a minor antagonist that was part of the team overseeing Ultra Magnus' capture and study, General Flagg is now hoping for an allegiance with the Autobots by offering whatever Energon there is left on the planet, which continues to be an ongoing trend in recent years of military involvement being implemented in this franchise, which has always been shaky. While this could lead to something interesting such as the upcoming G.I. Joe crossover, the introduction of the M.A.S.K. character Miles Mayhem feels more like expanding the wider universe rather than serving the story here.
While Daniel Warren Johnson presented a new visual perspective towards the Transformers whilst subsequent artists like Jorge Corona mostly succeed in continuing that aesthetic, Dan Mora brings something new to the table. Although Mike Spicer remains as the colourist from the very beginning of the series, Mora brings his own flourish that uses sharp linework towards the robotic designs which could easily have been a trap of limitation, but you can see the subtle expressions from the characters. Mora brings a high level of detail to the Transformers where you can see the scratches on their bodies as they are still recovering from previous battles, but the moment Megatron crushes an Autobot’s skull to brutal effect, the art is stunningly chaotic in capturing the frantic nature of two robot armies battling each other.
From these six issues, Robert Kirkman immediately puts his own stamp on the Transformers which may have its moments of fan service, but is willing to shake up the status quo whether it is the change of allegiance or introducing new aspects to the Energon Universe, which could go anywhere at this point.
Although Johnson’s run concluded with an epic battle where the Autobots were victories against the Decepticons, the war is far from over and Earth is still fallen victim to the destruction caused by the robots from another world. From the opening pages of this volume, drawn by Jorge Corona, who was the prominent main artist on the book, we see Megatron escaping after defeat and feeling disgust towards his Decepticons, but he will continue his twisted mission of peace through tyranny. And just like in the classic cartoon, we transitioned from the Deceptions to the Autobots via their respected insignia, and thus a new era begins.
Having started the Energon Universe with the ongoing Void Rivals, it feels like Robert Kirkman had been waiting for so long to write the Transformers. Whilst he has his own ideas about what he wants to do with these characters, he doesn’t negate the sincerity that Johnson established in his run. That is not to say Kirkman has not shown his emotional side in series like The Walking Dead and Invincible – both of which are defined by their shocking violence – but our introduction to Optimus Prime here shows that he is compassionate towards his fellow Transformers and the humans he swore to protect. From an early scene where Optimus briefly talks to a little girl wearing a face mask, mirroring his face guard, Kirkman immediately understands the assignment.
Taking cue from what Johnson established in his run, the war between the Autobots and the Decepticons isn’t a clear case of good versus evil, whether it is some of the Autobots not entirely on board with their leader’s devotion to protect the planet Earth, whilst some Decepticons are having second thoughts over Megatron’s tyrannical rule. While most of the volume is about the aftermath of the Chicago battle with the Autobots and several humans aiding on the rebuilding efforts, a number of characters question their place in this war, which allows for numerous changes in the status quo that shows the story could go anywhere.
With the Transformers themselves doing all the dramatic lifting, the human element isn’t quite as engaging, as although Carly and Spike are still present, it is unknown at this point what their roles are. Introduced during Johnson’s run where he was a minor antagonist that was part of the team overseeing Ultra Magnus' capture and study, General Flagg is now hoping for an allegiance with the Autobots by offering whatever Energon there is left on the planet, which continues to be an ongoing trend in recent years of military involvement being implemented in this franchise, which has always been shaky. While this could lead to something interesting such as the upcoming G.I. Joe crossover, the introduction of the M.A.S.K. character Miles Mayhem feels more like expanding the wider universe rather than serving the story here.
While Daniel Warren Johnson presented a new visual perspective towards the Transformers whilst subsequent artists like Jorge Corona mostly succeed in continuing that aesthetic, Dan Mora brings something new to the table. Although Mike Spicer remains as the colourist from the very beginning of the series, Mora brings his own flourish that uses sharp linework towards the robotic designs which could easily have been a trap of limitation, but you can see the subtle expressions from the characters. Mora brings a high level of detail to the Transformers where you can see the scratches on their bodies as they are still recovering from previous battles, but the moment Megatron crushes an Autobot’s skull to brutal effect, the art is stunningly chaotic in capturing the frantic nature of two robot armies battling each other.
From these six issues, Robert Kirkman immediately puts his own stamp on the Transformers which may have its moments of fan service, but is willing to shake up the status quo whether it is the change of allegiance or introducing new aspects to the Energon Universe, which could go anywhere at this point.
June 17, 2026
Starting with the art style: absolutely stunning and gorgeous. The colors in each scene looked so smooth and polished yet still popped out of the page. The illustrations themselves were so dynamic, especially the battle scenes. They had me just taking a minute on each page just looking at the art before reading the dialogue. Favorite scene gotta be when Optimus came back looking brand spankin new and so pretty. Mora really put his entire bussy into this one.
The plot:
Not as devastating as the other ones but still a pretty painful read. I genuinely understand Elita’s actions because she really was going through all manner of horrors while Optimus and crew were sleeping. And still, can’t help but feel sorry for Optimus too cause his reasoning is also important, to protect earth from their war and spreading more devastation beyond their planet. Really bittersweet ending and I can’t stop feeling like giving up the matrix is gonna bite both of them in the *aft.
The plot between thundercracker and skywrap? I’m so sad for thundercracker cause he did what he knew was right to save him and his buddy still left him in the end. I genuinely hope he survives but I’ve got no hope.
The scenes between Optimus and Soundwave however… they fight like exes. What’s up with that and why is Opp so determined to get him to his side? What’s the juicy history there? Love gay robots, happy pride.
I saw a lot of others say that the pacing was too fast but I found the pacing to be pretty good actually. Things were moving fast but not out of nowhere and not without purpose. It’s a fast paced battle and that really contributed to the urgency of both sides to get the upper hand.
Overall pretty good read and definitely wasn’t as emotionally painful as the other volumes. This one felt more like a setting up or transition type of collection which makes sense for a new creative team. Still very enjoyable and can’t wait for vol 6.
The plot:
Not as devastating as the other ones but still a pretty painful read. I genuinely understand Elita’s actions because she really was going through all manner of horrors while Optimus and crew were sleeping. And still, can’t help but feel sorry for Optimus too cause his reasoning is also important, to protect earth from their war and spreading more devastation beyond their planet. Really bittersweet ending and I can’t stop feeling like giving up the matrix is gonna bite both of them in the *aft.
The plot between thundercracker and skywrap? I’m so sad for thundercracker cause he did what he knew was right to save him and his buddy still left him in the end. I genuinely hope he survives but I’ve got no hope.
The scenes between Optimus and Soundwave however… they fight like exes. What’s up with that and why is Opp so determined to get him to his side? What’s the juicy history there? Love gay robots, happy pride.
I saw a lot of others say that the pacing was too fast but I found the pacing to be pretty good actually. Things were moving fast but not out of nowhere and not without purpose. It’s a fast paced battle and that really contributed to the urgency of both sides to get the upper hand.
Overall pretty good read and definitely wasn’t as emotionally painful as the other volumes. This one felt more like a setting up or transition type of collection which makes sense for a new creative team. Still very enjoyable and can’t wait for vol 6.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 19, 2026
All Hail the Transformers DEI Initiative.
There are some thoughtful moments sprinkled throughout this story but, considering how frustrated I am with the constant push of DEI stories, I am only going to focus on that portion of the book.
WARNING! CONTENT SPOILERS!
When all of entertainment seems to believe that to have “strong” female characters, you must also have weak/incapable male characters, let us add this Transformers story to the pile of DEI disappointments.
With very little explanation or build up, watch as the writer replaces both Ultra Magnus and Optimus Prime with Arcee and Elita One (respectively). In another ridiculous attempt to pander to a minority of readers; literally, the only two current female Autobot characters are promoted to the most powerful positions. The lack of creativity shows an incompetency of the characters or, worse, is a selfish act as (once again) someone’s political agenda takes priority, while creative writing and sound story telling are nowhere to be found on the page.
There are so many great female Autobot story arcs out there to pull material from… the delivery of the story is simply lazy. Writers, if you can’t figure out a way to elevate female characters without belittling male characters, perhaps it’s time for you to stop writing and, instead, start reading again. Many fine authors still manage to create great stories without pandering to an agenda. If there isn’t a course correction made in volume 6, this reader will certainly not be purchasing any further installments into the Energon Universe.
There are some thoughtful moments sprinkled throughout this story but, considering how frustrated I am with the constant push of DEI stories, I am only going to focus on that portion of the book.
WARNING! CONTENT SPOILERS!
When all of entertainment seems to believe that to have “strong” female characters, you must also have weak/incapable male characters, let us add this Transformers story to the pile of DEI disappointments.
With very little explanation or build up, watch as the writer replaces both Ultra Magnus and Optimus Prime with Arcee and Elita One (respectively). In another ridiculous attempt to pander to a minority of readers; literally, the only two current female Autobot characters are promoted to the most powerful positions. The lack of creativity shows an incompetency of the characters or, worse, is a selfish act as (once again) someone’s political agenda takes priority, while creative writing and sound story telling are nowhere to be found on the page.
There are so many great female Autobot story arcs out there to pull material from… the delivery of the story is simply lazy. Writers, if you can’t figure out a way to elevate female characters without belittling male characters, perhaps it’s time for you to stop writing and, instead, start reading again. Many fine authors still manage to create great stories without pandering to an agenda. If there isn’t a course correction made in volume 6, this reader will certainly not be purchasing any further installments into the Energon Universe.
August 30, 2026
PT Esta série é qualquer coisa. Aliás, não só esta série. Todo o Universo Energon está a ser muito bem construído e recheado de nostalgia.
Robert Kirkman pega no leme que já segurava em "Void Rivals" e assume também, durante algum tempo, o comando dos "Transformers", depois do trabalho fantástico que Daniel Warren Johnson fez nas sagas anteriores.
E, tal como acontecia em "The Walking Dead", a série que tornou Kirkman famoso, aqui também ninguém está a salvo. Kirkman não hesita em mandar seja quem for para a sucata, nem em pôr em causa papéis, relações e alianças antigas, se isso servir a história.
Portanto, o leme mudou de mãos, mas a série continua a todo o gás. Venham mais!
--
EN This series is something else. Actually, not just this series. The entire Energon Universe is being built incredibly well and is packed with nostalgia.
Robert Kirkman takes the helm he was already holding in "Void Rivals" and also takes over "Transformers" for a while, following the fantastic work Daniel Warren Johnson delivered in the previous story arcs.
And, just like in "The Walking Dead", the series that made Kirkman famous, nobody is safe here either. Kirkman won't hesitate to send anyone to the scrapheap, or to shake up established roles, relationships, and alliances if it benefits the story.
So, the helm has changed hands, but the series continues at full throttle. Bring on more!
Robert Kirkman pega no leme que já segurava em "Void Rivals" e assume também, durante algum tempo, o comando dos "Transformers", depois do trabalho fantástico que Daniel Warren Johnson fez nas sagas anteriores.
E, tal como acontecia em "The Walking Dead", a série que tornou Kirkman famoso, aqui também ninguém está a salvo. Kirkman não hesita em mandar seja quem for para a sucata, nem em pôr em causa papéis, relações e alianças antigas, se isso servir a história.
Portanto, o leme mudou de mãos, mas a série continua a todo o gás. Venham mais!
--
EN This series is something else. Actually, not just this series. The entire Energon Universe is being built incredibly well and is packed with nostalgia.
Robert Kirkman takes the helm he was already holding in "Void Rivals" and also takes over "Transformers" for a while, following the fantastic work Daniel Warren Johnson delivered in the previous story arcs.
And, just like in "The Walking Dead", the series that made Kirkman famous, nobody is safe here either. Kirkman won't hesitate to send anyone to the scrapheap, or to shake up established roles, relationships, and alliances if it benefits the story.
So, the helm has changed hands, but the series continues at full throttle. Bring on more!
Review of advance copy
With an oversized issue 25, new writer Robert Kirkman takes over the Transformers series, hitting the ground running where Daniel Warren Johnson left off.
The war between the Autobots and Decepticons is still bubbling, but there are some new players entering the board that I'm sure people are more familiar with than me (the curse of not being as versed with these Hasbro properties as others). Things are fairly quiet for the first few issues as both sides lick their wounds after the big conflict last volume, but then everything explodes again in the tail end, with some surprising leadership changes, at least one (possibly) permanent death, and a cliffhanger that definitely shakes up the status quo. I admire Kirkman for not just coming in and uprooting everything the way he wanted to, letting these six issues breathe and make the changes feel organic, like they were planned from the beginning rather than just his new ideas.
Also, Dan Mora draws this book as well as the 900 others he's drawing, and I just. I have no idea any more how this guy draws so well, so consistently, and so MUCH each month. I'm not complaining in the slightest, it just boggles the mind, especially given how much detail goes into each Transformer.
New creatives, but not missing a step. Roll onwards, Transformers, I'm still onboard.
The war between the Autobots and Decepticons is still bubbling, but there are some new players entering the board that I'm sure people are more familiar with than me (the curse of not being as versed with these Hasbro properties as others). Things are fairly quiet for the first few issues as both sides lick their wounds after the big conflict last volume, but then everything explodes again in the tail end, with some surprising leadership changes, at least one (possibly) permanent death, and a cliffhanger that definitely shakes up the status quo. I admire Kirkman for not just coming in and uprooting everything the way he wanted to, letting these six issues breathe and make the changes feel organic, like they were planned from the beginning rather than just his new ideas.
Also, Dan Mora draws this book as well as the 900 others he's drawing, and I just. I have no idea any more how this guy draws so well, so consistently, and so MUCH each month. I'm not complaining in the slightest, it just boggles the mind, especially given how much detail goes into each Transformer.
New creatives, but not missing a step. Roll onwards, Transformers, I'm still onboard.
June 2, 2026
I have adored this whole series so much, and this new team makes no exception. I love Dan Mora as an artist, but didn’t think I could possibly love his Transformers as much as DWJ’s. I was wrong. It’s every bit as good or better. It’s consistently stunning with every page, and I could not believe how classy of a transition they made between artists in that first issue. How ingenious, yet so simple.
A lot of this is just a re-establishment of status quo, with some shifts as well, of course. It goes without saying Kirkman is a good writer, but the changing of the guard was as seamless as I could’ve ever imagined. Everyone is still the same characters they were before, without question, but the ways he is already shuffling the deck in new forms are fascinating. One of the ways, I might dare say, I don’t think works, even if I respect the choice. But if I dare say such, I risk eating those words next volume when he pulls it off. It’s the first time one of these volumes has left me with an “…Oh..?” as a negative, but I’m still more than willing to trust Kirkman to make something great of it. I have a theory on where it might could be leading… in Void Rivals. But who knows haha
Might be the weakest volume for me, but it says a lot that THIS is somehow the weakest volume and it’s still this good.
A lot of this is just a re-establishment of status quo, with some shifts as well, of course. It goes without saying Kirkman is a good writer, but the changing of the guard was as seamless as I could’ve ever imagined. Everyone is still the same characters they were before, without question, but the ways he is already shuffling the deck in new forms are fascinating. One of the ways, I might dare say, I don’t think works, even if I respect the choice. But if I dare say such, I risk eating those words next volume when he pulls it off. It’s the first time one of these volumes has left me with an “…Oh..?” as a negative, but I’m still more than willing to trust Kirkman to make something great of it. I have a theory on where it might could be leading… in Void Rivals. But who knows haha
Might be the weakest volume for me, but it says a lot that THIS is somehow the weakest volume and it’s still this good.
July 30, 2026
So...I don't know if I'm with the majority or the minority here. But I didn't care a lot for this. Mostly because of the end, however it was a rough road to get to an ending that left me feeling very underwelmed.
Don't get me wrong, Johnson's was pretty annoying, but Kirkman's version is even worse...
However, I did want to end with a positive. Dan Mora's artwork is amazing. I had no problem with Corona, but Mora's is just about perfect for these characters. And fits a bit better now
So, definitely plan on checking out the next volume when it comes out, but I am having to adjust my expectations a lot.
Don't get me wrong, Johnson's was pretty annoying, but Kirkman's version is even worse...
However, I did want to end with a positive. Dan Mora's artwork is amazing. I had no problem with Corona, but Mora's is just about perfect for these characters. And fits a bit better now
So, definitely plan on checking out the next volume when it comes out, but I am having to adjust my expectations a lot.
August 11, 2026
4.3/5
I went into this trade a little wary. The early issues felt overloaded with dialogue, and it took a while for the momentum to kick in. Once the series settled into its rhythm, though, it became noticeably more engaging. The pacing improves, the stakes feel clearer, and the story starts pulling you along instead of just talking at you.
Robert Kirkman seems to be deliberately thinning the herd. There’s a sense he’s clearing space by moving certain characters out of the way (or at least sidelining them hard), which gives the remaining cast more room to breathe. After the first 24 issues under Daniel Warren Johnson—which were strong overall but often felt crowded with too many robots competing for attention—this approach lands as a smart reset. The book still has a big cast, but it no longer feels like everyone is fighting for panel time at once.
Dan Mora’s art continues to be a highlight, and the creative team as a whole keeps the book looking and reading sharp. It’s not a perfect volume (that early dialogue bloat is real), but it marks a clear step forward in focus and energy. If you’ve been following the Skybound run, this is a solid next chapter.
I went into this trade a little wary. The early issues felt overloaded with dialogue, and it took a while for the momentum to kick in. Once the series settled into its rhythm, though, it became noticeably more engaging. The pacing improves, the stakes feel clearer, and the story starts pulling you along instead of just talking at you.
Robert Kirkman seems to be deliberately thinning the herd. There’s a sense he’s clearing space by moving certain characters out of the way (or at least sidelining them hard), which gives the remaining cast more room to breathe. After the first 24 issues under Daniel Warren Johnson—which were strong overall but often felt crowded with too many robots competing for attention—this approach lands as a smart reset. The book still has a big cast, but it no longer feels like everyone is fighting for panel time at once.
Dan Mora’s art continues to be a highlight, and the creative team as a whole keeps the book looking and reading sharp. It’s not a perfect volume (that early dialogue bloat is real), but it marks a clear step forward in focus and energy. If you’ve been following the Skybound run, this is a solid next chapter.
Review of advance copy
Book is available on Hoopla. I'm not sure why it says it's not available until June 2.
What started out as a strong series has just turned into treading water. Big plot things happen, but often with no setup or sense of story. The "down time" between fights have been the same recycled discussions as in the last two volumes. Every volume has started to feel too much like actual kids playing with toys. Fight - blah blah blah -- fight, balance of power shifts multuple times....and, reset with a few more incomplete and confusingly drawn fights.
I keep ready because the whole universe ties together, but the same trend is being seen in some of the other energon series: too many holding pattern stories that repeat the same beats.
Sales say it's bringing joy to others, so that's cool and I hope it keeps going. But I may sit out for bit, read the next two volumes as one, and see if that helps sense of pacing.
What started out as a strong series has just turned into treading water. Big plot things happen, but often with no setup or sense of story. The "down time" between fights have been the same recycled discussions as in the last two volumes. Every volume has started to feel too much like actual kids playing with toys. Fight - blah blah blah -- fight, balance of power shifts multuple times....and, reset with a few more incomplete and confusingly drawn fights.
I keep ready because the whole universe ties together, but the same trend is being seen in some of the other energon series: too many holding pattern stories that repeat the same beats.
Sales say it's bringing joy to others, so that's cool and I hope it keeps going. But I may sit out for bit, read the next two volumes as one, and see if that helps sense of pacing.
June 5, 2026
So much better than I was expecting with the change of writer and main illustrator. Thundercracker goes over to the Autobots! I was overjoyed. And was the offline Decepticon his girlfriend? That could be fun if she came back online. Mirage in his description was supposed to be sympathetic towards the Decepticons, I hope he does not change sides at a later point. My favourite Starscream has been thrown on a pile...hope to see him back soon. Could Ulchtar be changing sides too?
Elita Prime? This could be good.
I was also so pleased to see Blaster as he is one of my favourites. His figure is looking at me right now!
The main downside is there was not much for Carly and Spike to do in this volume.
I hope we get a proper reunion scene between Carly and Cliffjumper in the next volume or I will feel cheated.
And will Skywarp regret his choice? Probably not while he can kill with impunity.
Roll on December for volume 6.
Elita Prime? This could be good.
I was also so pleased to see Blaster as he is one of my favourites. His figure is looking at me right now!
The main downside is there was not much for Carly and Spike to do in this volume.
I hope we get a proper reunion scene between Carly and Cliffjumper in the next volume or I will feel cheated.
And will Skywarp regret his choice? Probably not while he can kill with impunity.
Roll on December for volume 6.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2026
Had no idea this was out until it floated onto my Amazon radar which…ugh. But I’m glad I found out about it. I remember hearing rumblings that Kirkman was taking over the series, maybe in a promo at the end of Volume 4. I love that this starts with some art that bridges the two series and from there, this run seems REALLY focused on the interactions between the Autobots who often felt like they couldn’t quite get enough time given the split narratives in Johnson’s run. I liked a lot of this — the Thundercracker arc and getting to see some more of Wheeljack, Arcee, and Ultra Magnus. The ending and the way the final battle beforehand played out all felt sudden and rushed in a way that felt more like chess pieces being moved around and less like logical narrative beats. Still a pretty solid transitional step between two big authors.
May 23, 2026
Dang, what a way to kick off… the new arc? Something new for sure. New art, new stories, new things to lore… I think. Crazy stuff. But I’m liking it all a lot.
This was a good mix of starting a new arc while brining in ones from the previous that hadn’t been completed, and I’m fascinated as to where it’ll head to next!
Seeing things pick up with new art and growing transformer forces was exciting too.
All the new turns in lore with characters and names were all great cause they all seemed well backed by stories that hadn’t lead up to them. Nothing felt random, but well placed and earned. Whether these are things to remedy or the new status quo is what I’m curious to see…
This was a good mix of starting a new arc while brining in ones from the previous that hadn’t been completed, and I’m fascinated as to where it’ll head to next!
Seeing things pick up with new art and growing transformer forces was exciting too.
All the new turns in lore with characters and names were all great cause they all seemed well backed by stories that hadn’t lead up to them. Nothing felt random, but well placed and earned. Whether these are things to remedy or the new status quo is what I’m curious to see…
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2026
After the high that was the previous vol 4, I find myself a bit disappointed in the direction of the story.
This is in part to the loss of the original artist, but I do appreciate Dan Mora’s art style, especially for my favorite character, Megatron.
Maybe it’s just me having to get over the fact there will no longer be a Megatron vs Optimus Prime plot; but I felt that the Elita Prime transition could’ve been done differently.
Oh well!
Still, I’m excited for what comes next, as Megatron’s story is not yet done.
3/5 stars
This is in part to the loss of the original artist, but I do appreciate Dan Mora’s art style, especially for my favorite character, Megatron.
Maybe it’s just me having to get over the fact there will no longer be a Megatron vs Optimus Prime plot; but I felt that the Elita Prime transition could’ve been done differently.
Oh well!
Still, I’m excited for what comes next, as Megatron’s story is not yet done.
3/5 stars
Review of advance copy
Transformers has never looked better. Dan Mora is a beast. I don't know how he draws multiple books a month and makes them look this good. The art is dynamic and exciting. There are the twists and turns you'd expect Kirkman to throw at you. I certainly didn't expect the last issue to head where it did. Kirkman taking over has infected new life in the book. My only complaint is that I wish Mora could have stuck along for more than just these 6 issues.
Review of advance copy
Read as individual issues. This volume heralds a welcome shift in artwork and writing from the first four volumes of the series. The dialogue feels more literary and crafted, artwork is much cleaner, characters are to model, and action is framed more cinematically. This volume seems like a return to form for the Transformers.
4/5
4/5
May 26, 2026
This is a new creative team, and they kept the action going. There were some great scenes of action and characters and heart throughout. War, even for robots, has a heavy toll. Dan Mora art for Transformers is amazing! He can do no wrong! Series is still doing solid things!
Review of advance copy
A small step down from the previous volumes, but at the same time an exciting new chapter in the ongoing story. A lot of set up for things to come and looking forward to the next one.
I bought this from my local book shop, I didn't realise it hadn't been released yet 🤷♂️
I bought this from my local book shop, I didn't realise it hadn't been released yet 🤷♂️
June 4, 2026
Kirkman did good on this and I’m surprised people online weren’t huge fans of the last issue. I actually enjoyed the little Elita and Optimus twist moment at the end and feel like it sets up good direction for the series to head in. When they gonna revive bumblebee?
June 7, 2026
The setup for MASK and the next Transformers arc is great and makes me curious about the rest of Kirkmans run on this but the fight drawings are a mess compared to the previous volumes and are hard to makke out.
July 17, 2026
Kirkman's run takes on a much more emotional tone than previous issues--you'd be surprised how many shots of robots staring soulfully and mournfully into the distance you can pack into an issue--and Mora's art is, as always, fantastic. I just wish he had a longer run on the book.
August 18, 2026
Kirkman’s work on this hasn’t been what Johnson’s was, but how could it ever be? I don’t envy the task Kirkman had following up DWJ’s work, however I wish it was more focused. What really pulls this volume together is the brilliant final issue.
Read
August 22, 20262.5 It's a whole new Transformers world with Kirkman in charge. Less gritty, cleaner Mora art. Not sure the clashes have as much OOMPH. They put all the girls in charge in this volume so we see how that goes.
August 30, 2026
I wasn't sure if I'd still want to keep up with this after Daniel Warren Johnson left, but the team of Kirkman and Mora has done an excellent job so far. Great art, great action, good story, great times.
Review of advance copy
Read as single issues
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