Transformers Ongoing #7
As the dust settles down on Earth, we look to the Heavens to ask a burning question: Where have MEGATRON and the retreating DECEPTICONS been all this time? What have they been up to? The answer, of course, is: nothing good.
Transformers Ongoing #7 Covers and Images
Transformers Ongoing #7 Release Info
Publisher | IDW |
Type | Comic Book |
Series | Transformers Volume 1 |
Release Status | Released |
Year | 2010 |
Release Date | May 2010 |
Transformers Ongoing #7 Print Data
Incentive Description | Transformers Ongoing #7 features one incentive cover. One copy of the incentive cover was provided for every ten copies ordered through Diamond Comic Distributors. |
Total # of Covers | 3 |
Transformers Ongoing #7 Artists, Writers and More
Cover A | (Artist: Don Figueroa) (Colorist: J. Brown) |
Cover B | (Artist: Andrew Wildman) |
Cover RI (Retailer Incentive) | (Artist: Don Figueroa) |
Artist | E.J. Su |
Colorist | J. Brown |
Letters | Neil Uyetake |
Writer | Mike Costa |
Editor | Andy Schmidt, Carlos Guzman, Denton J. Tipton |
Transformers Ongoing #7 Synopsis
Transformers Ongoing #7 Review
Review Submitted By: Tim Formas
What are we now? Where are we going? We are our plans for the future? Those are not only the underlying questions that are answered for the Decepticons in Transformers #7, but questions for the future of the ongoing story arc that is set up through this issue.
Transformers #6 ended by wrapping up the current mini-arc, promising a change in the tone of the series. Spike Witwicky and Skywatch seemed to come to a peace agreement with Optimus Prime and the Autobots after they helped defeat Menasor and the Swindle-led Decepticons that were left on Earth. Transformers #7 serves as a transitional issue, setting up events from not only upcoming issues but future storylines as well. While it does not necessarily move the story forward by leaps and bounds, it ensures that the puzzle pieces are in the correct place as the second big story arc of the ongoing series begins.
While Transformers #7 was promoted as a Megatron-focused issue, it is much more than that. While narrated by Megatron, the issue details the status of the non-Earth based Decepticons as well as the changes occurring between the newly-found Autobot-Skywatch alliance. Megatron’s presence in the issue is VERY minimal but profound.
The writer, Mike Costa, paints a grim picture for the Decepticons. Because resources are low, many of the soldiers have resorted to cannibalism to survive and replenish their Energon levels. Megatron is essentially on life support, Starscream’s sole obsession continues to be power and The Matrix he now possesses. Other high-ranking Decepticons have their own agendas, which may be contrary to those desired by Megatron. Without any major changes or reversal of fortune, the Decepticons appear to be doomed. Luckily, the conclusion of the issue provides hope for the Decepticons much like All Hail Megatron #9 provided hope for the Autobots. Costa’s material makes you actually root for the Decepticons just a little. It helps that Costa has chosen to include forgotten characters as savage characters, familiar quotes, and reveals that status of a certain gestalt leader and the status of a certain one-eyed Decepticon.
The other portion of this issue further expands upon the newfound peace between Skywatch, the Autobots, and the outcome of General Witwicky’s (Spike’s dad) visit to Skywatch. While it does help to advance the story to the point where the next arc will start, Costa’s writing here does seem a bit too wordy and slows down the pacing slightly. Regardless, the material itself is beneficial towards the movement of the story.
E.J. Su serves as the first new artist to assume the duties of the ongoing series, as Don Figueroa has provided the art for the first six issues. Regardless whether one liked Don’s new style or not, E.J. Su’s art will be a shock to the system for readers of the ongoing. While no different than his style featured in Spotlight: Prowl, E.J. Su’s art is a vast departure from the movie-verse style used by Don. If you liked E.J.’s style from Spotlight: Prowl, you’ll be happy with this issue. Unfortunately, J. Brown’s colors do not seem to work as well with E.J.’s art as it does with Don’s art. Some of the bright colors featured in the panels detailing the Decepticon story are way to vibrant when depicting the dark times the Decepticons are facing.
Regardless of the little flaws here and there with the issue, Transformers #7 is worth picking up while understanding it is a transitional issue that paves the way for upcoming storylines. While the first story arc from the ongoing series lacked major starring power from both the Autobot and Decepticon sides, Transformers #7 provides hope that those pieces will soon be back in play.
Overall Rating: 3.5