REVIEW: ‘Transformers: Robots in Disguise’ Animated GN: A decent side story

GO TEAM ‘BEE! BUMBLEBEE leads an all-star team of AUTOBOTS to Earth to find rogue DECEPTICONS… but in this all-new story based on the hit Cartoon Network animated series, they’re forced to go up against their old friend, ULTRA MAGNUS. What terrible secret can set AUTOBOT against AUTOBOT?!

The Transformers: Robots in Disguise series has had a pretty tough reception. Thought not one of the worst series in the franchise it has the unfortunate luck of being the follow up to Transformers:Prime, which fans agree is one of the best. This has led many to offer harsh criticism against the show.

The graphic novel, which contains all the issues based on the show follows Bumblebee and his team as they work to hunt down escaped Decepticon prisoners. Unbeknownst to them, the other members of Bumblebee`s previous team are on Earth as well and are conducting an investigation of their own.


MFR ON YOUTUBE (latest video)
Help us reach 5K Subs!

The story is a side event which helps to shows more of the connection between Transformers:Prime and the RID TV series. The lack of references to events in the previous show was one of the criticisms against RID. Over the years fans have come to appreciate the attention to detail and continuity which they know creators can insert into shows if they simply exercise time and effort. The graphic novel is able to tell a proper story and address issues from the show. Sadly, the story they tell tries to tackle a deep issue about a conspiracy involving Bumblebee`s first case but unfortunately it doesn’t come off as deep or character changing in way which will stick with the reader when it’s over.

TF_RIDAnimated_TPB_cvr-659x1000

The art is off a bit. Trying to present the animated versions of the characters results in them being less striking than they are in the show. This often results in them having very comical appearances and expression even in tense scenes of action. Priscilla Tramontano was able to offer lots of references to other Transformers franchises which many fans will appreciate. There is even a reference to the other IDW Transformer comics as Fixit is seen holding the “My first blaster” gun introduced in Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye. They were definitely trying to make make sure the fans were pleased with this work.

Overall, they succeeded. The books is a great way to tie up some of the loose ends which are left over from Transformers:Prime. It’s just not a must read as the drama in it is a bit weak and wrapped up in neatly with bow by the end of it.

Anthony Wendel
Anthony Wendelhttp://www.thegiganticproject.com
Anthony is a geek through and through who still looks forward to new releases, sneak peeks, Giant Monsters, and robots of all shapes and sizes. He loves animation of all shapes and sizes. He has a distinct apprehension for trolling and clips shows. His books, The Handbook for Surviving A Giant Monster Attack and Santa Claus Conquers Manos: The Hands of Fate are available on Amazon.