OTWOMD | Bluepanjeet.Net

Who are the Transformers? Who are these “Robots in Disguise”? Who are these so called Autobots and Decepticons? Well do not fret, because I took the initiative of making a brief compendium about the profiles of the Main Characters in the 2007 movie “Transformers”. Thanks to the dedicated fans of the 1983 animated series of Hasbro, I was able to dig up from their archives these pertinent informations. I have been preparing for this post since July of last year but I felt that it was not yet time. Now that the Transformers fever has caught everyone by storm, I think it’s high time that I publish a post especially dedicated to the unknown origins and information of these fantastic robots. The informations that you are about to read are taken from Marvel Graphic Novel “Transformers Universe” that was published years ago and uploaded in the Internet by the The Nordic Transfans Association. The Profiles are significant because the source is already out of circulation. To My fellow fans and as well as the Newbies of the Transformers Universe, enjoy the data overload. (Pictures of their original robot modes and alternate forms are available).

Transformers 1986 OST
Transformers Theme by White Lion
OPTIMUS PRIME

ALLEGIANCE: AUTOBOT
FUNCTION: AUTOBOT LEADER
FIRST APPEARANCE: TRANSFORMERS # 1

“Freedom is the right of all sentient beings.”

Profile: If he had been on Earth, he would be a doctor, a mechanic, a scientist and a warrior. But on Cybertron there is no difference between these professions. So Optimus uses his skills to heal and repair - which are the same things to Autobots - to improve the world around him and, if necessary, to fight. Both in power and intelligence, he has no equal. He has the personality of an Abraham Lincoln. He can be immensely kind and his compassion extends to all that lives, including the creatures of Earth. Yet he will battle unceasingly to protect the weak and defend what he believes in. To accomplish this, Optimus knows that the Decepticons must be defeated for all time.

Abilities: In robot mode, Optimus Prime actually splits into three components. The Optimus module is the robotic sentient being that is the storehouse of his vast knowledge and strength. He can lift 4000,000 lbs. and a blow from his fist exerts a force of 12,000 lbs. per sq. inch. He carries a laser rifle and can burn a hole in the nosecone of a Decepticon jet fighter at a distance of 30 miles, aided by his outstanding visual acuity. His Prime module, also known as Roller, is a small cart-shaped device that he uses to unobtrusively slip behind enemy lines. He can maintain radio control over it at distances up to 1200 miles. Having Roller present somewhere is like being there himself. He can operate by remote-control his Combat Deck module up to a distance of 1500 feet. The Auto-Launcher mounted on the Deck can use a variety of artillery and radiation beam weapons, including most of those used by his fellow Autobots. The Launcher also includes a highly dexterous grapple-arm which allows it to load itself and change its weaponry. The communications disk antenna mounted on the launcher provides a link between Optimus and all his fellow Autobots within a radius of 50 miles. It can be adapted to a satellite hook-up that increases its effective range 10-fold.

Weaknesses: Although Optimus Prime can function as three independent modules, injury to any one of the modules is felt by the other two. Roller is particularly vulnerable, especially in the behind-the-lines situations in which he specializes. However, the Optimus module is by far the most important component of the trio. Although he could survive without the other two, they could not survive without him. Otherwise, the only weakness he could be accused of having is being too compassionate and concerned about the safety of others. He would be a more effective military commander if he were more ruthless, but then he wouldn’t be Optimus Prime.

2007 Transformers film

In the 2007 Transformers film, Optimus Prime was present as the leader of the Autobots. Prime now transforms into a conventional Peterbilt cab, rather than cab over design of his original Generation 1 body. Also straying from the G1 design, Prime’s vehicle mode is now decorated with red flames painted onto a blue body (a la Rodimus Prime, his G1 successor).

Although heavily redesigned like the other characters in the film, some classic design elements remain in his robot mode, including a predominantly red torso, primarily blue legs, the presence of windows in his chest, air filters on his shoulders, and a head design influenced by the original, featuring the iconic faceplate and antennae. This faceplate is able to retract to reveal a mouth. His weapons include an arm-cannon and a “heat blade” which extends from his forearm (a nod to his G1 incarnation’s yellow energy axe).

It was publicly announced at San Diego ComicCon 06 that original Optimus Prime voice actor Peter Cullen would reprise his role for the film. Cullen has commented that Prime is basically the same individual, and retains the same basic personality. However, he will be slightly more informal when he speaks, noted as saying lines such as “My bad,” and even showing informal motions such as rubbing the bridge of his ‘nose’ when frustrated.

 

 

BUMBLEBEE

ALLEGIANCE: AUTOBOT
FUNCTION: ESPIONAGE
FIRST APPEARANCE: TRANSFORMERS # 1

“The least likely can be the most dangerous.”

Profile: Bumblebee is the Autobots’ little brother. He’s small, eager and at times can be a bit of a smart-mouth. Yet for all his wisecracks, he obviously idolizes the bigger robots, especially Optimus and Prowl. He is useful as a messenger and a spy; he can go where other vehicles would not dare because he does not look threatening. And his relatively small size occasionally enables him to use routes not available to the others. More than anything, Bumblebee wants to be accepted, and this sometimes causes him to take chances he shouldn’t.

Abilities: As he can get up to 1.8 times more use out of a unit of fuel than the next most efficient Autobot, Bumblebee is often called upon at times of low energy resources. His visual acuity rates tops of all Autobots: he can spot a 10″ × 10″ object at a distance of 48 miles on a clear day. His adaptability to water environments makes him particularly important in undersea reconnaissance and salvage operations.

Weaknesses: Bumblebee is physically the weakest of the Autobots, and the most easily damaged. His stealth more than compensates for this liability.

2007 Transformers film

The vehicles used for Bumblebee, Ironhide, Jazz and Ratchet were put on display by General Motors at the 2007 Detroit River Walk Festival a little over a week before the U.S. release of the film.

In Hot Rod magazine’s Nov. 2006 issue, Bumblebee was a feature article. Originally suggested a trashed 1969 Camaro, settled on a 1976 model. It is painted yellow with black stripes, primer and rust patches, riveted hood scoop, Crager SS wheels up front, Eric Vaughn Real Wheels in the back, marine-grade vinyl seats, and even an eight-track player. The 2008/09 model was built using a 2004 Pontiac GTO by Saleen, the body was built from the same GM R&D molds that were used in the prototype 08/09 Camaros. Early photos show that Bumblebee can transform either one of his arms into an energy cannon, and has missile launchers in his shoulders.

It should be noted that the biography for the Decepticon Hardtop toy states that Hardtop and Bumblebee are old rivals and it was not Megatron which damaged Bumblebee’s ability to speak, but a shot from Hardtop’s gun. This, however, is not supported in any given fiction

 

 

JAZZ

ALLEGIANCE: AUTOBOT
FUNCTION: SPECIAL OPERATIONS, SABOTEUR
FIRST APPEARANCE: TRANSFORMERS # 1

“Do it with style or don’t bother doing it.”

Profile: Jazz would be cruising down Bourbon Street in New Orleans or be double-parked outside a cellar club in Greenwich Village soaking up the local sounds if he weren’t in the middle of a war. He’s a confirmed Earthen culture junkie - he can talk fluently about ballet or break-dancing (although he prefers the latter), and he’s always on the lookout for more stuff to turn on to. His knowledge of Earthen ways and his easy adaptability to Earthen environments make him the indispensable right-hand man of his commander, Optimus Prime. He’s often given the most dangerous assignments, and, with characteristic coolness, usually pulls them off using something out of his seemingly bottomless bag of tricks. He’d rather dazzle you with style than accomplish a mission the easy way.

Abilities: In robot mode, Jazz can use his solar-powered photon rifle with deadly accuracy up to a distance of .9 miles from target, and he can shoot it from virtually any physical position he may be in with equal effectiveness. He can also use a combination of his overhead flame-thrower (maximum range of 250 feet), full-spectrum front grill beacon and 180 dB stereo speakers to create a spectacular, disorienting light and sound show. He has been known to glide for more than 3000 feet using his rear-mounted ailerons. His biggest asset is the versatility and cleverness he possesses in using the resources at his disposal.

Weaknesses: Although Jazz’s firepower and strength are weak relatives to that of some of the other Autobots, he more than compensates with his daring and skill. He’s prone to be distracted from his primary assignment by Earthen behavior patterns that he finds interesting. This sometimes leads to disastrous consequences

2007 Transformers movie

Jazz appears in the live action film directed by Michael Bay. When the movie producers unveiled the final rosters for all the Transformers appearing in the movie, Jazz was described as having a love of style, with a rock-’n-roll type of personality—just like his G1 personality. Also adding to his G1 image is him retaining his visor as well as his front-chassis chest. Jazz’s alternate mode is a silver/gray customized hardtop Pontiac Solstice, similar to the weekend racer concept car. This has been confirmed by several leaked photos. Jazz’s weapons include a sword and shield, as well as a shield-mounted Gatling machine gun. Instead of a rocker vibe, he comes off as a urban style. He talks in slang and represents the hip-hop society.

The vehicles used for Bumblebee, Ironhide, Jazz and Ratchet were put on display by General Motors at the 2007 Detroit River Walk Festival a little over a week before the U.S. release of the film

 

 

IRONHIDE

ALLEGIANCE: AUTOBOT
FUNCTION: SECURITY
FIRST APPEARANCE: TRANSFORMERS # 1

“High tech circuitry is no replacement for guts.”

Profile: “Go chew on a microchip,” is Ironhide’s calling card. Never the sort who likes to be told what to do, he prefers action to words. He refers to what he considers excessive talking as “leaking lubricant.” He’s the oldest Autobot, probably the toughest, most battle-tested and certainly the orneriest. Due to his defensive capabilities, he is usually in charge of safekeeping anything or anyone of importance, and sort of acts as Commander Optimus Prime’s personal bodyguard. His gruff exterior hides his kind inner soul; his concern for the protection of life, whether mechanical or biochemical, extends to the lowliest gasketroid or smallest sparrow.

Abilities: Ironhide’s skin is made of a trithyllium-steel alloy impregnated with irradiated carbon fibers, giving him immunity to most forms of artillery and electromagnetic attacks. He is the most nearly invulnerable of the Autobots. His main weapon is what he playfully calls his “water gun.” It can shoot a stream of any number of liquids up to 1,000 feet. His choices include supercooled liquid nitrogen, superheated liquid lead, and a petro-chemical fluid that ignites upon contact. He also has sonar, radar, and a radiowave detector.

Weaknesses: Ironhide is the slowest Autobot. Due to his advanced years, he breaks down the most. His presence breeds dissension among some of the younger, less compassionate Autobots who consider him an antiquated old heap whose contributions do not outweigh his liabilities. Optimus Prime does not share their view.

2007 Transformers film

In the Transformers live action film Ironhide appears as a GMC TopKick C4500 pickup truck, replacing Arcee in the cast list. Peter Cullen, who provided the voices for both Optimus Prime and Ironhide in the original animated series, does not voice Ironhide in the film, although he does voice Optimus Prime. Ironhide is described as being Prime’s oldest friend and the weapons specialist of the team. He has some classic cowboy characteristics and is always ready for battle, although he possesses a grim outlook on life, and sometimes questions Prime as to why they should protect the human race, describing them as “primitive”. According to the tech specs of his toy, he was built during the Battle of Tyger Pax, and is one of the oldest Autobots. His weapons include an energy cannon mounted on his left forearm and a missile launcher on his right forearm.

According to an interview with Industrial Light and Magic, Ironhide’s guns alone have more pieces than some of the other transformers in the film.

Autobot Ironhide Topkick conversion, on display at the 2007 Detroit River Walk Festival.

The vehicles used for Bumblebee, Ironhide, Jazz and Ratchet were put on display by GM at the 2007 Detroit River Walk Festival a little over a week before the U.S. release of the film.

Ironhide is voiced by Mark Ryan in the video game, and by Jess Harnell in the film.

 

 

RATCHET

ALLEGIANCE: AUTOBOT
FUNCTION: MEDIC
FIRST APPEARANCE: TRANSFORMERS # 1

“You break it, I’ll remake it.”

Profile: Ratchet was known as the best tool-and-die man on Cybertron. In his work-area bay, he can fashion anything from a pin to a cruise missile and repair most of the Autobots and their specific parts, given the right materials. His rough language and manners belie his gentle touch on the operating-assembly table. He knows how to have a good time despite his involvement in a combat group. “When does the party begin?” is his usual query after he’s completed patching up his latest fallen comrade. He’s more prone to giving his leader, Optimus Prime, a lot more backtalk than the other Autobots, but does his job as well as anyone.

Abilities: Ratchet has an assortment of laser scalpels, arc-welders, electron microscopes, electrical circuit sensors and fluid dispensers (both lubricating and super-cooled) at his disposal.

Weaknesses: His preference for partying to anything else sometimes interferes with getting his job done. Otherwise he’s only limited in doing his work by time and materials available.

2007 Transformers film

In the live action film, Ratchet appears as a Search and Rescue Hummer H2. As always, Ratchet is the medical officer of the Autobots. His weapons are an energy cannon and an axe.

According to the official movie site, Ratchet believes the conflict can be solved peacefully, with no violence.

Autobot Ratchet Hummer H2 conversion, on display at the 2007 Detroit River Walk Festival.

The vehicles used for Bumblebee, Ironhide, Jazz and Ratchet were put on display by GM at the 2007 Detroit River Walk Festival a little over a week before the U.S. release of the film.

 

 

MEGATRON

ALLEGIANCE: DECEPTICON
FUNCTION: DECEPTICON LEADER
FIRST APPEARANCE: TRANSFORMERS # 1

“Everything is fodder.”

Profile: Love, compassion, mercy are words that have no meaning for Megatron. He has risen to the leadership of the Decepticons by a combination of brute strength, military cunning, ruthlessness, and terror. On Cybertron he was commanding general in charge of all military operations against the Autobots, who referred to him as “The Slag-Maker.” It was a title of fear. A title of respect. A title Megatron relished. His banishment to Earth has only made him more bitter and more evil-minded, if that is possible. He aches to return to Cybertron and complete his mission of eradicating the Autobots. But while on Earth he is dedicated to eliminating those Autobots marooned here with him - and his plans go far beyond that. He realizes the Earth is one huge stockpile of metal and fuel resources and means to possess it all, with the aid of his fellow Decepticons. But his plans go even further, plans so grandiose even his fellow Decepticons are unaware: Megatron intends to enslave the entire human race. He allows no exceptions to his motto.

Abilities: Megatron is incredibly powerful and intelligent, the equal of Autobot Leader Optimus Prime. His fusion cannon can convert any small amount of matter into large quantities of explosive nuclear energy. The cannon can fire a blast up to 12 miles and release enough energy to flatten a small town. Megatron can use his internal circuitry to connect the cannon interdimensionally with a black hole, where it can draw on anti-matter as its power source. The blast from this is far greater, but it creates a tremendous strain on Megatron to do this for even one blast.

Weaknesses: Megatron has no known weaknesses.

2007 Transformers movie

In the film and the video game, Megatron appears as a Cybertronian jet. The apparent explanation for the departure from his gun form is that director Michael Bay does not want to include any sort of size changing in the transformations, which the writers describing as cheating.

The Sector 7 website, part of the Transformers movie advertising campaign, released an email on March 23 that indicated that actor Hugo Weaving has been cast as the voice of Megatron. His voice in the film seems to have been digitally altered to give it a deeper, growling tone. The original voice of Megatron, Frank Welker, provides his voice for the official videogames of the movie.

Like all characters in the film, Megatron was heavily redesigned for purposes of realism and focus on an alien aspect of the Transformer race. He appears very bio-mechanical. Nonetheless, he is still silver, has a helmet, heavily built shoulders and large legs, characteristics that mirror the G1 look. Likewise, as shown in the film, both of Megatron’s arms can join together to form his iconic fusion cannon, and he is also armed with his flail (in a nod to his G1 incarnation), both helping keep some semblance to his original G1 form.

 

 

STARSCREAM

ALLEGIANCE: DECEPTICON
FUNCTION: DECEPTICON AEROSPACE COMMANDER
FIRST APPEARANCE: TRANSFORMERS # 1

“Conquest is made of the ashes of one’s enemies.”

Profile: Starscream makes no secret of his ambition to overthrow Megatron as Decepticon Leader. He is ruthless, cold-blooded and cruel. In that sense the two rivals are very much alike. But he has a vain side that clearly distinguishes him. He considers himself the most sophisticated and handsome of the Decepticons. He exudes a high-class, urbane air that provides a certain irony to his murderous tendencies. He looks down at Megatron for being antiquated in his military strategy. Starscream believes the Decepticons should rely more on guile and speed rather than brute, destructive force to defeat the Autobots. Megatron overlooks the potential threat Starscream represents for one very good reason: Starscream is very good at his job.

Abilities: Starscream is one of the fastest flyers of the Decepticons, reaching speeds up to Mach 2.8. He can climb to sub-orbital altitudes of 52 miles and nose-dive down to near ground level in mere minutes. This makes him particularly effective in surprise attacks and hit-and-run actions. He can shoot cluster bombs a distance of 40 miles, each of which can level an area 10,000 feet square. His null-ray rifle can interrupt the flow of electricity in any circuitry it hits for periods of up to two minutes, effectively preventing the operation of many machines dependent on those circuits during that period.

Weaknesses: Starscream overrates himself sometimes, and finds himself in situations that are more than he can handle. His nose-dives often overload his gyro-circuitry leaving him disoriented briefly. But, overall, he is a very tough nut to crack.

2007 Transformers film

In the live-action movie, screenwriter Alex Kurtzman has made clear that Starscream will not stray from his treacherous roots as he seeks to overthrow Megatron, and frequently engages in bickering arguments with him. As ever, Starscream transforms into a jet — in this case, an F-22 Raptor — but is bulkier than most incarnations, due to the lack of mass displacement and the size of the Raptor jet. He maintains a simian body shape with large shoulders and arms, and small bird-like feet, although his chest is still formed by the jet’s nose. His movements are informed by both animals, as he can swing from buildings with his arms and also can transform in mid-flight, swooping down on prey. His arms can become large cannons.

Starscream is voiced by Daniel Ross in the game, and by Charlie Adler in the film. Adler is a veteran of the Transformers G1 cartoon, having voiced Silverbolt, the leader of the Aerialbots, as well as the character Triggerhappy in The Rebirth.

 

 

BARRICADE

ALLEGIANCE: DECEPTICON
SUBGROUP: MICROMASTERS
FUNCTION: RACE TRACK PATROL COMMANDER

“Winning is everything!”

Barricade first featured in 1990 as part of a Decepticon race track patrol team, his vehicle mode was a formula one racing car.
Barricade learned how to take care of himself while running with Cybertron’s most vicious racing gangs, and he brings that same brutal edge to his position as leader of the Race Track Patrol. His troops know that the slightest mistake will result in a merciless dressing down in front of the others, and they strive to meet his exacting standards. His hard-nosed, abusive leadership style doesn’t do much for morale, but he figures it’s for their own good.

Transformers (2007 film)

In the 2007 live-action movie, Barricade is a Decepticon, that transforms into a Saleen S281 Ford Mustang (modified to resemble a police car). He is a hunter/scout of the Decepticons, choosing his vehicle mode to easily hide among the humans as a symbol of authority. His weapons include gatling cannons and arm-mounted spikes, and he has a compartment in his chest where he stores Frenzy.

In leaked versions of the script, this character was originally codenamed Brawl. The name was later changed to Barricade when the official list of Transformers appearing in the movie was released; the name Brawl would go to another Decepticon. His side reads “To punish and enslave” instead of “To protect and serve”, and his doors’ police logos have the Decepticon symbol on them and the writing “Pacis Quod Alcedonia”, Latin for “Still, Halcyon Days of Peace”, and “Incorporated since June 1865″.

 

 

FRENZY

ALLEGIANCE: DECEPTICON
FUNCTION: WARRIOR
FIRST APPEARANCE: TRANSFORMERS # 1

“Sow panic and surrender will bloom!”

Profile: With a fervor bordering on insanity, Frenzy plunges into conflict holding back not one molecule of his mechanical being. If it were necessary for him to breathe, war would be his oxygen. His lust for destruction knows no cause, no purpose - it only craves the fear it instills in others, the destruction it leaves in its wake. The other Decepticons appreciate Frenzy’s boldness and enthusiasm - often this is enough to turn them from beating a hasty retreat to launching a new offensive. But given his single-minded devotion to violence, even they find him hard to deal with on a personal level. They have no problem letting him lead the way into battle.

Abilities: His screaming voice and belligerent manner alone could shake up an opponent, but Frenzy can enhance this effect by spinning the drum-like devices in his torso. Rolling the drums against each other produces a high-pitched, grating sound of up to 200 decibels which can severely disrupt the electrical flow within the circuits of anyone within earshot, resulting in all sorts of mechanical malfunctions. He’s particularly adept at disorienting his opponents by neutralizing their auditory and balance centers.

Weaknesses: Like his brother Rumble, Frenzy’s small stature limits his physical strength, but his abilities make him difficult to get near. A very cool, logical reaction to his manic onslaught is often an effective way of countering his intimidating effect.

Transformers 2007 movie

Frenzy appears in the live-action Transformers movie. He takes on the stealth spy role that was originally Soundwave. The movie’s creators have stated that the character design had evolved too far from being Soundwave.

Frenzy as portrayed in the film is small, very thin, and spiky. Frenzy is shown as a silver boombox, with round speakers and blue diode-lights. His weapons include a small gatling gun on each hand and CD-like shurikens that fire out of his chest. His character is manic, sometimes comedic. He’s the only Decepticon with blue colored optics, rather than the usual red. He is voiced by Reno Wilson.

 

 

BONECRUSHER

ALLEGIANCE: DECEPTICON
SUB-GROUP: CONSTRUCTICON
FUNCTION: DEMOLITIONS
FIRST APPEARANCE: TRANSFORMERS # 10

“Hit it till it stands no taller than the dust.”

Profile: A rubble-strewn wasteland is Bonecrusher’s idea of a beautiful landscape. Rare is the edifice that he feels is better off left standing. For him, demolition is not merely a job - it is a performance. He loves to show off for his comrades. And Megatron realizes that the fear and terror sowed by this Constructicon’s wild ways are bonus by-products that can only help the Decepticon conquest of Earth’s resources. Bonecrusher’s attitude about the world around him can best be summed up by his personal credo: “Everything is dust - or it will be when I get through with it!”

Abilities: In vehicular mode, Bonecrusher can exert a force of 800,000 pounds per square inch at a speed of 30 mph, enough to knock down all but the most heavily reinforced structures. His thick titanium-steel hide makes him virtually invulnerable to anything that might collapse upon him as a result of one of his charges. He can use a short-range concussion bomb launcher to aid his demolitions. In robot mode he carries a laser pistol. He serves as the left arm module which, when combined with his fellow Constructicons, forms the giant robot known as Devastator.

Weaknesses: Bonecrusher’s eagerness to wreak destruction often results in the loss of structures that had potential value for the Decepticons. Although he is rarely harmed by the collapse of a building on him, he is sometimes buried and finds it difficult to free himself at those times.

2007 Transformers film

Bonecrusher, as he appears in the 2007 movie, will have this vehicle mode based on the Buffalo armored vehicle, manufactured by Force Protection Inc. The Buffalo is currently in service with the United States Military in Iraq, and has been praised by troops for its effectiveness in defusing Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) with its 30-foot-long mechanical “claw.” The sighting of a large armored vehicle with an art design with the words “Bonecrusher” and a picture of a bulldog with bones in it’s mouth painted on the side confirms this. His feet are wheels, and his weapons include blades on his forearms, as well as a grappling hook mounted on his back.

Roberto Orci and Alex Kurtzman described Bonecrusher as a subservient warrior of Megatron who despises all the other Decepticons, and if someone attempts to befriend him, he will have nothing to do with them. The toy’s tech spec expands on this aspect by stating that he hates everything including Megatron, but only sticks around because he fears being terminated by his leader.

 

 

BLACKOUT

ALLEGIANCE: DECEPTICON
SUB-GROUP: MICROMASTERS
FUNCTION: GROUND INFANTRY

Blackout was one of a team of two Micromaster Combiners. They came with a tank that could transform to a base. Because Blackout and his partner Spaceshot are regularly pictured together and that they are amongst the lesser known Micromasters, the exact identity of each Transformer is regularly mistaken for the other. Blackout has never appeared in Transformers fiction. His bio painted him as a brave Decepticon warrior, but liable to flee if the odds turned against him. Only Spaceshot’s disapproval often keeps this from happening.

2007 Transformers movie

Early leaked scripts of the 2007 Transformers movie had a Decepticon helicopter named Vortex, after the Generation 1 Combaticon. Possibly due to Hasbro’s lack of a trademark on the name Vortex, they changed the name to Blackout. Blackout has had various different names before being finalised - Soundwave, Vortex and Incinerator; all names have been used on a Transformers toy at some point before.

Blackout transforms into a MH-53 Pave Low helicopter. According to screenwriters Roberto Orci and Alex Kurtzman, Blackout is the largest Decepticon, serving as transportation for the other group members. He is armed with arm-mounted Gatling cannons, and has the ability to disrupt electronic devices via EMP. He is also able to wield his tail rotor blades as a close-combat weapon.

 

 

SCORPONOK

ALLEGIANCE: DECEPTICON
SUB-GROUP: HEADMASTERS
FUNCTION: HEADMASTER LEADER

“Kindness is no virtue … and cruelty is no vice.”

When Scorponok passes by, all that will be left by the time he is gone are destruction and misery - no class of citizen is safe from his venomous wrath, as he takes pleasure in inflicting suffering upon any and all that he can. As leader of the Decepticon Headmasters, Scorponok is binary-bonded to Lord Zarak, the leader of the evil Nebulons, and wields an anti-gravity gun in robot mode. A Triple Changer, Scorponok’s primary alternate mode is that of a giant scorpion, with claws that can crush mountains and a tail that fires deadly electric blasts. His third mode is a defense base, outfitted with assorted tracking and communication equipment, repair and constructicon bays, as well as copious amounts of weaponry. His base mode is patrolled by Fasttrack, a partially-autonomous armoured vehicle that can transform into a robot mode armed with twin photon cannons.

Scorponok is the second-largest toy from the original Transformers toyline, slightly taller than Trypticon, and second only to his opposite number, Fortress Maximus. Originally, his Tech Spec statistics were printed upside down, resulting in a grossly inaccurate representation of his abilities (suggesting, for example, that his Strength was merely 3). Later production runs of the toy bore modified statistics - though they were again incorrect as they were consistently two points lower than those revealed by plugging Lord Zarak into the chest meter. (This may be due to the blue line of the tech specs card being printed in yet another inverted form — mirrored, as opposed to upside down.)

2007 Transformers film

Scorponok has appeared in the live-action Transformers film, directed by Michael Bay. His machine form is a mechanized scorpion. His humanoid form is shown for a brief moment in the movie, but it’s far too dark to make out any features. Screenwriter Roberto Orci indicated that this Scorponok will be conceptually closer to the Beast Wars character than the original; he does bear a noticeable resemblance to the McDonald’s Transmetal Scorponok figure (see above). He is Blackout’s ally, similar to the role that cassettes such as Ravage and Laserbeak served under Soundwave. His weapons include missiles, spinning pincers and a set of large knives that represent the stinger on his tail.

 

 

BRAWL / DEVASTATOR

ALLEGIANCE: DECEPTICON
SUB-GROUP: COMBATICON
FUNCTION: GROUND ASSAULT
FIRST APPEARANCE: TRANSFORMERS # 24

“I was built to be wild!”

Profile: Brawl is loud. Whether he’s talking, shooting, or merely moving, he makes a lot of noise - grating, clanking, booming noise that irritates all those nearby, friend and foe alike. As unpleasant as that side of him is, there are other aspects of his personality that his fellow Combaticons consider even worse. He has a hair-trigger temper and expresses his frequent anger with a savage fury truly terrible to behold. But, at least this seething rage that drives him, that makes him so unpleasant to be with, also makes him a terrifyingly effective warrior. He makes no secret of his blustering belligerence; the mere sound of his approach is enough to unnerve Autobots. His actual arrival can paralyze them with mind-numbing fear. If he weren’t always so angry, Brawl might find this pleasing.

Abilities: Brawl possesses enormous strength and is resistant to most conventional artillery. In tank mode, he can reach speeds of 45 mph and has a range of 600 miles. His turret-mounted gun shoots a shell up to a distance of 3.5 miles with an explosive force of 200 Ibs. of TNT. His twin sonic cannon shoots powerful, ear-splitting bursts of concentrated sound energy of up to 300 decibels. He can manipulate this energy in stereo (a result of the cannon’s dual configuration) to shatter anything from a crystal wine glass to a cinder-block bunker. In robot mode, he wields a 10-megawatt electron gun. He combines with his fellow Combaticons to form the giant robot, Bruticus.

Weaknesses: Brawl is virtually incapable of being quiet, making him an easily identifiable target as he approaches a battle. In tank mode, his turret is prone to getting locked in one position, particularly in dusty environments.

2007 Transformers film

Devastator appears as a separate character that transforms into a modified M1 Abrams tank. This character was listed as being renamed Brawl; however, in the final movie, the Decepticon clearly identifies himself as Devastator. This is due to Hasbro’s edited name not being altered in time to make the final cut of the film.[citation needed] There is also a Decepticon named “Bonecrusher”, who is a Buffalo.

In the Film, Devastator first appears driving in a remote area when Starscream calls to asemble the decepticons. Later, he joins in the battle in Los Angeles where he fires upon the U.S. soldiers, at which point Jazz, Ratchet, and Ironhide begins cutting ligaments and various parts from his body. He is eventualy killed by the U.S. soldiers and Bumblebee. Bonecrusher takes part in the speedway scene and engages in battle in Optimus Prime, who decapitates him with his heat sabre.

The film’s producer, Tom DeSanto, states the possibility of adding the Constructicons in
a sequel.

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PREQUEL
In the second installation of Transformers (which is now on the works), it is speculated that the Dinobots, Constructicons and Soundwave would appear in it. Here are their profiles.

 

 

The Dinobots

The Dinobots are a group of five Transformers, part of the Autobot faction. Their exact origins and abilities vary from one version of Transformers to the next, but they are always exceptionally powerful Autobots, able to sustain heavy abuse and wield heavy firepower against their foes. In all media, they are depicted as being fiercely independent and liable to break away from the main group of Autobots when the mood takes them.

• Grimlock - Tyrannosaurus rex (Team Leader)

• Slag - Triceratops

• Sludge - Brontosaurus

• Snarl - Stegosaurus

• Swoop - Pteranodon

Due to their unique alternative modes, their memorable personalities and their fighting prowess, they are firm fan favourites in their cartoon, comic book and toy incarnations.

Animated Series

The creation of the Dinobots was almost happenstance. One particular day at Autobot Headquarters, the Autobots detected unusual seismic activity from within the walls of the cave. Ironhide investigated the disturbance and found that, while inconsequential, he detected very large forms within a hidden cavern. They turned out to be the fossilized bones of dinosaurs. After performing various studies and researches on Dinosaurs, Wheeljack made the suggestion that, because of their brute force and power, dinosaurs working for the Autobots would shake up the Decepticons. Ratchet agreed, suggesting robotic forms and Optimus Prime authorized the project.

Shortly after, the Dinobots were created and unveiled, but during the presentation, the Dinobots went awry, due to their lack of intelligence. They began to ransack Autobot Headquarters, inflicting major damage to Teletraan I. Wheeljack managed to subdue the Dinobots with his shoulder-mounted magnetic inducer. The Dinobots were deactivated and stored in the cavern where they were constructed. Shortly after, when many of the Autobots were in peril, the Dinobots were given cerebral upgrades, increasing their intelligence to where they possessed broken language. The upgrade was sufficient to give them instructions and send them into combat.

The Dinobots performed admirably in combat, saving the Autobots, forcing the Decepticons into retreat, and earning a permanent place in the Autobot ranks. They proved very useful when Megatron brought Cybertron into Earth’s orbit through the Decepticon Space Bridge. Dismayed by his losses to the Dinobots, Megatron discovered and briefly exploited weaknesses that turned the Dinobots against the Autobots. To counter this, two new Dinobots were created - Snarl and Swoop. Grimlock reconsidered his decision after being saved by Optimus Prime from an exploding meteorite. The Dinobots were among the very few to have survived the Last Great War and see the Second Golden Age of Cybertron.

They are often brought in to face the largest threats. They have tangled with Devastator numerous times, defeated or stalemated Megatron and Shockwave, and even survived a head-on assault against Unicron.

 

 

The Constructicons

The Constructicons, so named for their group job of design, engineering and construction for the Decepticon forces, are particularly notable for their status as the very first combining sub-group of Transformers, able to merge their bodies and minds together to form the gigantic Devastator (Devastar in Japan, Vernichter in Germany [only in the 1994 TV dub of the movie and the G2 cartoon, the toy and the 1989 TV dub of the G1 cartoon called him "Devastator"] and Dévastateur in Canada). The individual members of the team include:

• Scrapper, the leader of the Constructicons, is a master designer who conceives the myriad structures the Construticons assemble. Although he’s genuinely modest about his work, he’s prone to bragging amongst his fellow Constructicons. He transforms into a wheeled front-load shovel and forms the right leg of Devastator. As indicated by a cut line from the original script of the Constructicons’ debut animated episode, Scrapper was originally to be named Gravedigger. Scrapper is called Ringhio (which means Growl) in Italy.

• Bonecrusher is a brawler by nature and specialises in demolitions work. Under this vicious personality is an underlying motive; he is a perfectionist at heart and wishes to destroy all he deems imperfect, including the Autobots. He would enjoy the extra potential for destruction as Devastator if it didn’t mean sharing the same mindspace as his fellow Constructicons. He transforms into a bulldozer, and forms Devastator’s left arm. Bonecrusher is called Scudo (Shield) in Italy.

• Scavenger is an unashamedly pathetic Decepticon. Desperate to prove his worth to his team-mates, he uses his one true gift - his shovel’s ability to detect various magnetic, ionic, electrical or gas readings - to locate items of value, although invariably, all he can usually find is junk. He transforms into an excavator, and the right arm of Devastator. Originally to be named Scrounge, Scavenger was erroneously referred to by this name once in the Constructicons’ debut animated series episode. Scavenger is called Braccio (Arm) in Italy.

• Mixmaster might have a few chips loose in his logic center, judging by the cackling with which he undertakes his role of materials fabrication. Although manic and erratic by nature, he is a genius of a chemist, able to mix chemicals in the drum of his concrete mixer alternate mode. (He has also been known to insert solid objects — such as cars — into his mixing drum in order to turn out new building materials.) He forms Devastator’s left leg. Mixmaster is called Rollo (a word with no meaning)in Italy.

• Hook (Glen W in Japan) is the team’s perfectionist second-in-command, who considers himself far too elite to deal with most of the ‘ruffians’ that call themselves Decepticons. He is excellent at performing tasks which require extreme precision (including surgical operations), but the time he takes to perfect his work and his arrogance are his weaknesses. He transforms into a crane, and forms the head and shoulders of Devastator. Hook is called Rostro (Beak of big birds like vultures or condors) in Italy.

• Long Haul is not fond of his role as transport, ferrying construction materials to and fro on a Constructicon building site, and although he accepts its importance, he would much rather be a full-time warrior. He transforms into a dump truck and forms Devastator’s lower torso. In a children’s coloring book, Long Haul is once mistakenly referred to by Scrapper’s early name, Gravedigger. Long Haul is called Macigno (Boulder) in Italy.

The team’s combined form of Devastator is brutality in its purest form - his sole purpose is to destroy anything and everything that gets in his way. It is ironic that the suitably intelligent Constructicons should sacrifice their thinking ability in their combined form, but simple-mindedness is a common limitation of the assorted other first-generation combining Transformers, due to the fact that Devastator’s thoughts and actions are limited to what his six components can agree upon at any given time. Consequently, Devastator seems like a being of instinct, lashing out at everything around him before contemplating the consequences, but he is also slow and lumbering and very easy to trip up. The only contradiction to Devastator’s lack of a display of intelligence is in The Core, when his components’ minds were temporarily controlled by the Autobots. He was able to detach the portion of himself made by Hook and complete a complex surgical procedure on Jazz (which put even Ratchet’s skills to shame). When the surgery was complete, Hook returned to Devastator’s combined form as if the whole operation was performed by the Autobot-controlled Devastator.

 

 

Soundwave

If his fellow Decepticons think that Soundwave (Memor in Italy; later known as Soundblaster in Japan) is listening, they keep their mouths shut. Despite his impenetrable exterior, heightened by the fact that, unlike most Transformers, his face is virtually incapable of emotional expression, Soundwave is a blackmailer through and through who will eavesdrop in search of any insubordination, to secure his standing with Megatron. His comrades will usually pretend to like him in order to keep on his good side, but in reality, he doesn’t care what they think of him, because he knows that he is indispensable to the Decepticon cause.

Soundwave can detect and jam radio transmissions all across the energy spectrum, a talent that makes him naturally suited to his position as Decepticon Communications Officer. Soundwave also possesses the ability to monitor electrical impulses within brain circuitry - i.e. he can read minds. Additionally, he has a photographic memory thanks to the vast data storage capacity of the magnetic disks in his chest compartment, and he is armed with a shoulder-mounted radio wave sensor and hand-held concussion blaster. Soundwave is also one of the physically strongest Transformers. He transforms, shrinking as he does so, into an Earthly Microcassette deck, and in the tape compartment, which becomes his chest in robot mode, he stores the Decepticon spy cassettes Ravage, Laserbeak, Buzzsaw, Ratbat, Rumble, and Frenzy, who seem to exist in a quasi-symbiotic relationship with him.

The relationship shared by Soundwave and his counterpart cassettes is only briefly touched upon in the animated series and comics, however there are indications the bond extends much like a family, with the cassettes quick to defend and protect Soundwave during a crisis. The “animal” versions of the cassettes such as Buzzsaw, Laserbeak and Ravage appear to share a closeness with Soundwave much like a pet and their owner. The exceptions to this were in the Marvel and Dreamwave comic book series, which portrayed Ratbat as an independent-minded Decepticon who had risen to a position of power. In Marvel comics, Ratbat had authority over Soundwave within the leadership of the Decepticons forces. Regardless of this reversal of situations, Soundwave showed himself to be loyal to Ratbat in the same way that he was loyal to Megatron. In the Dreamwave comics Ratbat lead the Ultracons faction, while Soundwave remained with the Decepticons lead by Shockwave, although this was before Ratbat became a cassette.

 

Sources: Wikipedia.com
The Nordic Transfans Association

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