Transformers #20: Regroup, Rebuild, REBORN!

Transformers #20 returns to the present day, ongoing story with the Autobot and Decepticon teams regrouping after their previous conflict saw the return of Megatron. Both teams are struggling to sustain themselves due to a myriad of issues, and this issue sees that regrouping and character building that has made this series such a blast since day one.

The heart of this issue comes from the idea of hopelessness. Optimus has tried multiple times now to position the Autobots in a place where they can protect themselves, humanity, and stop the Decepticons; however, every step he takes forward ends up seemingly setting him ten steps back. This is punctuated by a beautifully written  and drawn segment between Optimus and Spike where they discuss hope and the fragility of the conflict. This entire conversation sets this narrative and this new story arc into perspective, firmly cementing that this story is character driven.

One of the best parts of this series that is on full display here is how dramatically different the Autobot and Decepticon factions are. On the Autobot side, Optimus is shown as being a conflicted leader, one who is even questioning his own tactics, while also struggling to ensure that all of his friends are taken care of. All of his resources go towards creating and rebuilding fallen Autobots, rather than fixing the wounds that he and his team have sustained thus far. Since the first issue, the Autobots have been on the outs, and in Transformers #20, the weight of that can truly be felt.

To contrast this, the series’ creators place Megatron in a completely opposing, yet similar situation. Like Optimus, Megatron himself is physically broken; yet, they both refuse to rebuild themselves and instead choose to use their resources for other means. In the Decepticons’ case, Megatron decides to use some hidden Energon reserves as a means to prove a point. Without spoiling what he actually does, it is worth noting that Megatron’s actions showcase how he rules through fear and control rather than compassion. While the direct conflict between Megatron and Optimus seems a little further out than this initial regrouping effort, the buildup is well worth whatever eventual payoff the team has in store.