Megatron
A name that strikes fear in the hearts of many spanning the galaxy. His tyranny has been held in check by the efforts of Optimus Prime (or should we say “Optimus”) and The Autobots.
That was then….Now, things have changed for the leader of the Decepticons.
WELCOME TO MEGATRONUS REX!
Transformers #38 by Robert Kirkman, Jason Howard, Mike Spicer & Rus Wooten (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics) brings a new evil to the forefront.
Let’s take a closer look at what unfolds now.
Credit: Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Kirkman dives right into the hear of the matter with Megatron’s new changes. The writing instantly creates fear while positioning the evil leader in a prime place to strike. As the story moves to other areas, it never leaves readers’ thoughts of what’s coming next. From Wheeljack’s discovery on the Cybertron Shard to Carly and Spike’s talk, each story carries a lighter sense of direction as they brace for what’s coming. Optimus’ words of valor come with much emotion. This sense of strength fades fast as the Autobots see who arrived at their doorstep.
Readers don’t wait long for the action to commence. Kirkman sprinkles in great dialogue as both leaders of their factions refuse to concede the area. This ignites an intense battle where no one is safe. The writing elevates the stakes with one giant move. Adding in the new Superior comes with much force behind it. This move gives some sparks of hope. Quickly, this feeling is dashed by a huge counter swing. It is a rare sight but Optimus’ reaction of shock speaks volumes. This feeling moves events to the closing pages. The chilling words of MEGATRONUS REX lead to a show-stopping moment. One parting shot caps off a volatile return that has only begun to wreck havoc once more.
Check out RICH’S review of transformers #37
Howard and Spicer usher in Megatron’s new form with a haunting first panel. The full page final result makes a bold proclamation of what’s to come before segueing to a more stable area. Wheeljack’s sense of victory is dashed quickly due to a wrongful act. Carly’s reactions to events show the wear it’s taking on her soul. Spike’s words of encouragement show no effect. This changes with a half panel gift. The wave of positivity on the Autobots and allies faces disappears rapidly as danger comes knocking. Panels show Optimus getting ready to fight. Once he sees against who, all movement stops on a dime.
A fantastic two page spread showcases Megatronus Rex in his new form. It helps stage two mirrored battle cry pages with Wooten’s lettering stealing scenes. Readers watch as the huge action rolls out. A solid half panel shows the leaders poised to fight. Megatronus Rex’s face tips off a major change coming. This arrives in full page form to throw everything off the scales. It leads into a series of near full images of the brawling. One in particular changes everything to lead into the frightening closing shot. The full page image conveys the evil about to be unleashed. This sends readers home with much to process as a dark day sets on the Autobots’ latest fight.
FINAL GRADE: 8.8
Welcome to the Megatronus Rex era! Kirkman’s writing delivers on huge action while crafting the dangers. Howard and Spicer construct monster full images to drive home the gravity of this new change. A stunning look at an old evil reborn. There’s never a shortage of big events taking place in this series!
Let me know your thoughts on Transformers #38 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
