Dustin Gebel
Skybound Comet revealed that the robots in disguise are jumping from the mainline into the middle grade market with Transformers: Worst Bot Ever: Meet Ballpoint. The first installment of a new OGN series, the book will be written by Brian “Smitty” Smith and illustrated by Marz Jr. Launching in July 2025, the book follows as Ballpoint is kicked out of the Decepticons after failing to defeat the Autobots.
In the press release, Smith spoke about working with the character, stating:
“It’s been awesome bringing Ballpoint to life. Getting to add a brand-new character to the TRANSFORMERS universe is a once in a lifetime opportunity!”
Worst Bot Ever is set to help expand the portfolio of books under the partnership between Skybound and Hasbro. In the main comic line, the Energon Universe is expanding constantly while maintaining strong sales and critical review. The connection runs deep between lines, as Marz Jr. previously illustrated variant covers for Void Rivals.
Marz Jr. spoke about the influence of the Transformers, stating:
“I’ve been obsessed with TRANSFORMERS since I was a kid. The 1986 animated movie blew my mind! I’ve tried to put that magic and love into each page.”
Transformers: Worst Bot Ever: Meet Ballpoint will be available at?comic book shops on Wednesday July 9, 2025 and at booksellers, along with digital platforms on Tuesday July 22, 2025.
