Today’s Comic> Transformers Timelines #8

“Soundwave, who put this 3D Chalk Art on our floor?”

Transformers Timelines Vol. 2 #8

Fun Publications (2013, reprinted for Diamond publication in 2014)

In the “Machine Wars” universe, Jhiaxus’s clones have devastated much of Cybertron. A group of Autobots, led by Obsidian, must protect the planet with Optimus badly damaged, due to events in other “Transformers Collector Club” stories. His lead clone, Megaplex, is starting to exhibit signs of Megatron’s personality as he launches a bit attack on the Autobots. Can they be ready for him?

What they got right: I’ve been too busy this year to follow the toys for Botcon this year. In some ways this is a set-up for other, club exclusive stories (published in their newsletter). And yet until the ending it can stand alone while introducing the key players for this year’s set. Also, I think this is the first Transformers comic on store shelves to take place in the “Machine Wars” toyline, even if most of those molds don’t show up here.

What they got wrong: Did they have to imitate the style of the “Generation Two” comics? I hate that style and I don’t understand why some people like it. Also, at times they flashback before the battle to scenes that may or may not be important to the story. I hate when they do that.

Recommendation: If you’re already a member of the Official Transformers Collectors Club then you probably already a copy of this. For those of us who can’t afford one, however, this mostly sets up events in the newsletter comics and probably isn’t worth getting outside of a curiosity.