Transformers #29: Non-Stop Action

Transformers #29 picks up from the previous issue’s cliffhanger, which saw Megatron brutally kill an Autobot while the rest of the team prepared an assault on the Decepticon forces. As Megatron revels in his victory, the Autobots swing into action, delivering the most action-packed issue of the series so far, with Decepticons and Autobots clashing on nearly every page. As the battle rages, characters’ true motives are revealed, a contingent works to free Soundwave from his prison, and Megatron begins to suffer a mental breakdown.

There is no doubt that Dan Mora is one of the best artists working today, with his work at DC Comics drawing in a large audience. Some readers were wary of him taking on Transformers because his style differs greatly from that of Daniel Warren Johnson and Jorge Corona, and the book has certainly felt different since the transition. This is the first issue where Mora really gets to cut loose, and the results unfortunately vary. The character moments and splash pages are beautiful, but often it feels like too much is happening at once. Ironically, this was a similar criticism leveled at Johnson and Corona, but here the sheer number of characters makes it difficult to tell who is fighting whom. In the end, that lack of clarity makes it harder to stay emotionally connected to the story.

The narrative itself feels like it takes a major pause in favor of devoting nearly all of its page space to action. While there are strong character moments sprinkled throughout, this issue is ultimately one massive brawl, with only a few developments that seem likely to have a meaningful impact on the rest of the arc. One of the greatest strengths of Transformers under Image and Skybound has been its ability to find humanity in these larger-than-life robots, so dedicating an entire issue to what sometimes feels like kids smashing toys together comes across as slightly misplaced.

It’s difficult to discuss this issue without addressing its cliffhanger ending, so consider this a spoiler warning.

As the issue closes, Elita-1 returns to Earth to confront Optimus Prime, whom she has grown to resent after realizing he no longer wishes to fight for Cybertron. This has been one of the most compelling storylines running through recent issues, so seeing it positioned to play a major role in next month’s finale is welcome news. It also offers hope to the small but passionate group of Cliffjumper fans who believe his return is imminent.