‘Transformers: Armada Omnibus’ Comic Review

This graphic novel was released in 2010.

Dreamwave Productions brought us the comic book version of the TV show Transformers: Armada, which ran for eighteen issues. It was written by Chris Sarracini with art by James Raiz. IDW Publishing would release an omnibus in 2010 (seen above) and 2016 following the dissolution of DW.

The Decepticons decide to make a play for conquering Cybertron when they realize that they can use another group of Transformers called Minicons to enhance their powers. Decepticon leader Megatron captures several. After forcing them to help, the Decepticons attack Cyber City while Optimus Prime and the Autobots try to defend. The Autobots manage to save the Minicons, who ran to Earth and went into stasis. When they awaken, Megatron brings Star Scream, Thrust, Cyclonus, and Demolisher to Earth to find them. Optimus Prime arrives with Hot Shot, Red Alert, Smokescreen, and Scavenger. With the help of human allies, they work to save the Minicons from the Decepticons, but little do they know Unicron waits to devour Cybertron.

Dreamwave definitely could bring on the artwork. James Raiz’s illustrations of the Autobots and Decepticons were fantastic. I especially liked how he drew Jet Optimus (the combined version of Jet-Fire and Optimus Prime). I also liked how he drew the landscape of Cybertron, but especially the battle between Megatron and Galvatron. That was cool.

Sarracini brings on the story as well. The story was better than the TV show, and I liked how it worked in several elements while also working with the Transformers lore. I do wish that Sideswipe, Sideways, and Wheeljack could have been worked into the story with Blur given a bigger role. Outside of that, I think it was an excellent adaptation that truly shows when comic books cared about their fans.

What do you think? Let me know in the comments below. Tell me if there is an anime, comic book, movie, or novel you would like me to review.