Autocracy #9

Transformers Autocracy #9

Given the events of the previous issue, the direction that Autocracy #9 was headed was rather obvious. The writers, however, manage to turn the obvious into a nice introspective that we have never had described before.

By the end of Autocracy #8, the alliance between Orion Pax’s crew and the Decepticons lead to Megatron killing Zeta Prime. Following the death of Zeta Prime, Megatron turns on Orion and throws his heavily damaged body down a hole. As Autocracy #9 begins, Megatron announces to Cybertron that the rule of the Primes is over and makes an offer to the Autobots and non-allied Cybertronians. Meanwhile, Orion struggles to survive in the hole while his crew contemplates their position in the war.

Co-writers Chris Metzen and Flint Dille tell a story that we know the endgame on, but do so in a much more in-depth way. Previous incarnations showing this event have romanticized it, but Metzen and Dille craft a story that tells what the individual in question feels and thinks while going through the process. We know what’s coming, but it ends up being one of the more exciting interpretations we have seen of this momentous event and ends on a high note. On the flip side, though, it seemed too easy to just have Orion Pax thrown into a hole that just happened to be the exact perfect hole to be thrown into. Destiny to be thrown in that hole? Maybe, but it still just seems too easy.

Artist Livio Ramondelli turns in a great performance this issue. His gritty artwork continues to fit the tone of the story. Metzen and Dille’s storytelling of the event hinted at above is absolutely enhanced by Ramondelli’s artistic interpretation of the event.

We all love hero stories. We have seen heroes ascend in their darkest hour. Autocracy #9 is the hero story of the series. From darkness came light and he’s ready to kick some tailpipe.

Overall Rating: 4