Dreamwave's first Transformers: Generation 1 limited series really caught my attention at times, and especially with the first issue. There's a balance of the fun of giant, transforming robots with darker plot elements and an interesting conspiracy-theory/mystery riff. So I figured I'd take a look-see at this followup series. New writer Brad Mick plays with an interesting premise for the foundation of the plot, but ultimately, there's something missing. And that something is the human factor.
Optimus Prime finds himself inexplicably drawn to a remote area in Alaska, and he leads his Autobots soldiers there. They must not only contend with a Decepticon ambush, but the arrival of more Transformers. Brethren from Cybertron emerge from an Autobot ship, but they bear the Decepticon mark. The gathered masses of marooned Transformers learn that things have changed radically on their homeworld, and that they represent a way of life that's outdated and considered a threat to a new peace.
The computer coloring effects stand out as the visually engaging element in the book. They add energy and excitement to the action-oriented artwork. Lee and Armstrong handle the large cast of characters fairly well, and inject an impressive array of detail into each of the mechanical players in this little drama. Most importantly is how they make Shockwave seem even larger than life amid a crowd of larger-than-life robotic figures. Of course, I have to say that the crowd is a bit too expansive. It's difficult to keep track of all of the characters, especially if one is not well versed in all things Cybertronian. I was also disappointed to find a confusing panel layout on pages two and three, where Lee opts to shift from left-to-right storytelling, to right-to-left and back again.
Mick maintains a pretty accessible tone in the script. The general plot and the key players are identified clearly, and he does a good job of capturing an imposing, dangerous tone for Shockwave and the changes he represents. I like that there's discord among the heroes, and the mystery as to Shockwave's real intentions has piqued my curiosity.
On the other hand, there are elements that are irksome as well. Starscream's one-dimensional, back-stabbing personality is predictable and far from interesting, and Mick doesn't overcome the notion that there are no real consequences for these characters. Ratchet's hurt bad, real bad... but it's nothing that can't be fixed, for example. But what was really lacking here was an emotional investment for the reader. Though this is escapist entertainment, the reader still needs to see himself in the book, but there's no one to identify with here. Not only is Spike gone, but there's nary a fleshy figure to be found here.
