Shopping on line can be easy, simple and save you lots of money. It can also take a lot of your time, frustrate you, and result in unwanted purchases. Now the same can be said for regular high street shopping, but with the vast opportunity presented by the Internet it will pay you to spend a few minutes reading this and understanding how to better optimize your Transformers Universe shopping experience:
1. Compare - without doubt the biggest advantage that the Transformers Universe offers shoppers today is the ability to compare thousands of Transformers Universe at a time. This is a great thing, but not necessarily all the time! Too much can be daunting at times so take advantage of the great comparison sites and where possible let them do the hard work for you.
2. Research - if it has been said it will be on the internet. Ignorance is no longer a justifiable reason for buying the wrong thing. Take the time to research in detail everything that you could possible want to know about
3. Testimonials - don't know anybody that has bought a Transformers Universe? Wrong! If the Transformers Universe is good the internet will let you know. Use the Internet as a friend and get testimonials before you buy.
4. Questions - Got a question about Transformers Universe then search the Forums, FAQ's, Blogs etc. Don't be afraid to ask .....
5. Reputation - Never heard of the company selling Transformers Universe? Don't worry, no reason why you should know every company in the world, but you know someone that does! Use the internet to find out what people are saying about Transformers Universe and build up a picture of their reputation for sales, returns, customer service, delivery etc.
6. Returns - still worried that even after all of the above your Transformers Universe wont be what you want? Check out the returns policy. There is so much competition now that someone, somewhere is bound to offer the terms that you are comfortable with.
7. Feedback - happy with your Transformers Universe then let people know, after all you are depending on others people input in your buying decision, so why not give a little back.
8. Security - check for the yellow padlock on the Transformers Universe site before you buy, and the s after http:/ /i.e. https:// = a secure site
9. Contact - got a question about Transformers Universe, or want to leave a comment then check out the sites contact page. Reputable companies have them and respond.
10. Payment - ready to pay for your Transformers Universe, then use your credit card or PayPal! Be aware of companies that don't accept them, there may be genuine reasons but given the huge amount of choice you have when buying online there is no reason at all not to buy via credit card or PayPal.
Transformers: Universe is a line of toys consisting of repainted re-releases from various
Transformers (toy line) toy lines. The toy line has spawned several series of
comics and other stories. In addition,
Marvel Comics produced an unrelated mini-series called
Transformers Universe. (see below)
Marvel Comics
Transformers Universe was the name of a 4-issue limited series published by
Marvel Comics in 1986 to showcase profiles of the most popular characters in the Transformers series comic and cartoon series, in addition to
The Transformers: The Movie. The series was demanded by fans of the comic series who were already familiar with Marvel's own 12+ issue
Marvel Universe reference series profiling their own characters in alphabetical order. After the four issue run (which covered most Transformers used from 1984 to 1986 -- only
Bandai-made figures and those omitted from the American animated series bible were not shown), a second series of Transformers Universe profiles were run in the closing pages of most Transformers comics, from issue #47 to issue #79. These later profiles covered popular characters from 1987 and 1988. The concept was revived in 2002 when
Dreamwave Productions published
Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye (and its sister title for
Transformers: Armada), this time carrying profiles for all Generation 1 (and Armada) characters -- popular and obscure. In addition to providing another concise resource for Transformers characters, the MTMTE series allowed Dreamwave to showcase their artists' new styles of illustrating the pre-1984 to 1991 characters.
Toy Line
image:Transformersuniverse.gif
Transformers: Universe is a Transformers (toy line) comic series and toy line that was started to reintroduce repainted versions of past figures. The Transformers: Universe toy line traces its origins back to when Hasbro imported the
Transformers: Car Robots toy line from
Takara and called it
Transformers: Robots in Disguise. Although they made Hasbro versions of most of the Car Robots characters, they also released a number of repainted molds from previous toy lines (yet uncharacterized in
Car Robots; mostly Generation Two and unused Beast Machines concepts) and released them as part of the Robots in Disguise line. When the Robots in Disguise line ended and Transformers: Armada started, the repaint line was given its own title, Transformers: Universe.
Meanwhile the BotCon Covention Comics had a plotline set during and after Beast Machines. This plotline was wrapped up with the repainted figures from RiD and Universe to create the storyline of Transformers: Universe.
Fiction
image:Universecatalog.jpgIn a post
Beast Machines era, Cybertron is enjoying a time of peace. However, it is cut short when the evil Unicron returns planning to exact his revenge and consume the universe. Using his tremendous powers, he reaches into other time periods and dimensions to assemble an army of familiar faces to challenge the forces of good. In response,
Primus (Transformers) resurrects and reformats Optimus Primal, and the two work together to gather an army of their own. Each side takes the name of an ancient Transformer faction: Primus' warriors are the
Autobots and Unicron's are the
Decepticons. As the battle progresses, the Transformers radiate Energon (Power Source), unaware that Unicron is taking this energy for himself.
In the comic series, Unicron consumes the sparks of fallen Transformers, not just energon given off when they die fighting.
Most Universe toys lacked any tech specs on the boxes, however many of the toys did have tech specs appearing on the Transformers official web site or in the short lived
Transformers: Universe and
Wreckers comic books.
3H Enterprises
The Transformers Universe comic series was released through the Official Transformers Collector's Club. It came to an end when the license for the club and convention was given to Master Collector.
Transformers: Universe - Wreckers #1 contained a story called "Departure". Starts with a flashback to late Generation One, where
Daniel Witwicky and Wheelie are killed. This puts Daniel's friend Arcee into a sad state. Hot Rod and Springer talk about becoming Maximals. Main story is set in the later episodes of Beast Machines. In "Departure" the Wreckers, Mutants and Dinobots arrive on Cybertron and are sent on missions by the Oracle. Arcee, Dillo, Mol, Rav, Skywarp, Cyclonus, Rotorbolt and Devcon join the Wreckers. Contained Primeval Dawn Part 1, a story set on the Beast Wars Earth just after the Maximals left at the end of the Beast Wars television series. The Vok return Airazor and Tigatron to Earth as Transmetals, and then use the Matrix from Optimus Prime, the Transmetal 2 Driver and the control suit from the Beast Wars which was used by Quickstrike to control Optimal Optimus to create Primal Prime. We learn Tarantulas (Fox Kids repaint colors) and Ravage (Transmetal 2 Tripredacus Agent version) are still alive and are making a new army of Predacons.
Transformers: Universe - Wreckers #2 contained a story called "Betrayal". The Dinobots are attacked by the Dweller. Mutants are killed by the Quintessons. The Wreckers meet Glyph and Tap-Out. Cyclonus betrays the Wreckers for his true master, Cryotek. Contained Primeval Dawn Part 2. The Maximals are joined by Ramulus. The Predacons (Ravage, Razorclaw, Spittor and Iguanus) attack as Tarantulas rips the Matrix out of Primal Prime. In a flashback scene Rodimus Prime consulted Quickmix, Skids, Perceptor and Rad on his plans to send out ships to gather information on threats from space after the defeat of Unicron.
image:wrecker3-dinobots.jpgTransformers: Universe - Wreckers #3 contains a story called "Disclosure". The Wreckers rescue a banished Quintesson who tells them a story of the origin of Cybertron. Dinobots Terranotron, T-Wrecks,
Triceradon and
Dinotron join Devcon, who is hunting Cryotek. Contained the story "Primeval Dawn Part 3".
Primal Prime is reanimated by the Vok.
Transformers: Universe - Wreckers #4 Unreleased issue. Main story would have merged the story with the other Universe comic. Artwork released on the internet contained appearances of the Dinobots, Devcon, Rook, Snarl, Skydive, Longhorn, Che and the Monsterbots. Story involved the invasion of Cybertron by the Quintessons. Would have contained Primeval Dawn Part 4, the last part of that story. Presumably the story would have contained the death of Airazor, the defeat of Tarantulas and the Maximals being joined by Fractyl, Packrat, Spittor and Sonar and returning to Cybertron. The first four pages of this issue were eventually finished and published in issue 16 of the Transformers Collector Club magazine.
image:Primus-universe.jpg consults Primus (Transformers) about the abductions of
War Within Grimlock, Tap-Out,
Generation 1 Brawn (Transformers) and
Armada Megatron.
Transformers: Universe #1 contained a story called "Abduction". Some time after the end of
Beast Machines On the reformatted
technorganic Cybertron
Beast Machines Cheetor, Rattrap,
Silverbolt and
Blackarachnia were interviewed by the Autobot reporter
Universe Rook (Transformers). They then welcomed the Autobots Roulette (Transformers),
Shadow Striker as well as
Generation 1 Sideswipe, Sunstreaker and Trailbreaker back to Cybertron.
Beast Machines Buzzsaw,
Beast Wars Drill Bit (Transformers),
Beast Machines Quickstrike and
Rockbuster were also present. The returning Autobots along with Blackarachnia and Silverbolt were then abducted via teleportation beams and taken to
Unicron. Tap-Out,
Transformers: Armada Megatron (Unicron Trilogy), Brawn (Transformers),
War Within Grimlock and
Beast Machines Snarl were also abducted from various timelines. Silverbolt, Blackarachnia, Sideswipe and Sunstreaker were forcibly reformatted by Unicron into their
Universe forms. Taken captive by
Universe Razorclaw,
Reptilion, Obsidian (Transformers), Tankor and Striker, the Autobots were forced to fight one another. They witnessed
Armada Smokescreen (Transformers) kill
Generation 1 Smokescreen, whose spark was absorbed by Unicron. Sensing the need for a champion
Primus (Transformers) and
Alpha Trion brings Optimus Primal back to life.
Transformers: Universe #2 contained a story called "Escape". After the events of the Botcon 2003 voice actor play Optimus Primal, Megatron and Grimlock are holding Striker defeated. Optimus Primal is able to use his spark telepathy to free Striker from Unicron's influence. Sideswipe and Sunstreaker are forced to fight. Silverbolt and Trailbreaker discover that each of their holding cells are attuned to the spark energy signature of its occupant. In order to escape their prisons Trailbreaker and Silverbolt swap sparks for a brief time, and are able to break out of each others cells. Optimus Primal helps break free the slaves from various timelines which are held there and gets them to Cybertron. Blackarachnia and Shadow Striker defect to the Decepticons and stay behind. Blackarachnia discovers Tarantulas (Transformers) is working for Unicron.
Transformers: Universe #3 Optimus Primal pleads with Magnaboss and the Maximal High council (which includes Bantor, Air Hammer, Corahda,
Torca and Battle Unicorn) to take the threat of Unicron seriously, but they doubt his claims. Optimus Primal is detained, but Snarl frees him. Alpha Trion and Primus claim they need Primal to choose his troops from any Cybertonians past or present, and he chooses
Rhinox and Depth Charge, who are brought back to life. Although Rhinox is happy to have a second chance to redeem himself, Depth Charge isn't pleased with being brought back from the dead. Depth Charge rescues Rattrap from an attack by Blackarachnia.
Plans were for the two titles to merge after the fourth issues into one story, but both titles were canceled after 3 issues and never got a chance to merge.
OFTCC Voice Actor Dramas
In the 2003 OFTCC Voice Actor Drama by Simon Furman
War Within Grimlock,
Armada Megatron (Unicron Trilogy) and
Universe Optimus Primal are each transported to the Unicron world, where they eventually team up and fight Striker (Transformers) and
Reptilion. This story takes place between issues #1 and # 2 of the
Transformers: Universe comic series. There is a small continuity error in that this story ends with Grimlock, Megatron and Primal standing over Reptilion, but issue #2 of the comic starts with them standing over Striker.
The Voice Actor Drama was written for OFTCC 2004 by Simon Furman, set after the events in the comics. Rhinox has built a device to deflect Unicron's attempts to pull victims from other dimensions with his tractor beam. The Autobots deflect two attempts and the victims end up on a frozen planetoid instead of with Unicron. Maximals
Rattrap and Silverbolt and the
Predacon Waspinator are sent to help the victims, but Reptilion, Sunstorm (Transformers), Ruination and the Mini-Con gestalt
Perceptor are sent to get them for Unicron. As a side effect of the device Rhinox built, a vortex opens which sucks in an Autobot shuttle from the past piloted by Bumblebee (Transformers), Tracks (Transformers) and
Cosmos (Transformers). Sunstorm attacks the Maximal ship, but they are saved by being transported to the Autobot shuttle. The Autobots and Maximals then go to the planet where they save the victims from the Decepticons. On the planet are two groups of Autobots. One is from the
Robots in Disguise story, with
Landfill (Transformers) (Walmart recolor),
Universe Side Burn and
Universe Prowl. The other is from another parallel world with Spy Changer Optimus Prime, Ultra Magnus, Prowl and
Ironhide. They successfully fight off the Decepticons. The Autobot shuttle is sent back to its own time.
Fun Publications
The
Transformers: Cybertron comic featured
Sentinel Maximus, a character who is the fused form of the Transformers characters Primal Prime and Apelinq, who were merged to be able to defeat
Cryotek during an untold story. Universe characters Nemesis Prime, Ramjet and his Mini-Cons also appeared in this story.
In the comic story found in issue 8 of the Transformers Collectors Club magazine
Robots in Disguise Optimus Prime told the story of the last battle he was in, set in the Transformers: Universe storyline. Alongside
10th Anniversary Optimus Primal they attacked the last of
Unicron's forces when Unicron suddenly disappeared, and they barely escaped. Among the Autobot forces were
Universe Fireflight, King Atlas,
Universe Night Slash Cheetor,
Universe Longhorn,
Universe Prowl,
Universe Repugnus, Rhinox,
Universe Side Burn,
Universe Silverbolt,
Generation One Sideswipe,
Generation One Sunstreaker, Tap-Out, Trailbreaker,
Cybertron/Robots in Disguise Ultra Magnus and
Universe Whirl. Among the Decepticons were
Universe Blackarachnia, Nemesis Strika,
Universe Obsidian,
Universe Razorclaw,
Reptilion and
Universe Skywarp.
Transformers: Universe toys
2002 toys
Although the
Transformers: Universe line didn't start until late 2003, several convention exclusives were released in 2002 bearing the
Transformers: Expanded Universe title, and they were worked into the
Universe line.
- CatSCAN - A redeco of Beast Machines Night Slash Cheetor.
- Cyclonus - Redeco of 'Beast Machines Jetstorm, a BotCon 2002 exclusive.
- Glyph (Transformers) - Recolor of Generation One Bumblebee keychain. A BotCon 2002 exclusive.
- Rook (Transformers) - Recolor of Generation 1 Windcharger keychain. A BotCon Europe 2002 Exclusive.
- Tap-Out - Recolor of Generation 1 Cliffjumper keychain. A BotCon 2002 exclusive.
2003 toys
image:Razorclaw-universe.jpg
- Optimus Primal - Redeco of first Beast Wars gorilla version as an Autobot.
- Optimus Prime - Redeco of Robots in Disguise version in yellow.
- Razorclaw - Redeco of Beast Wars Tigerhawk as a Decepticon.
- Reptilion - Redeco of Beast Wars Transmetal 2 Iguanus as a Decepticon.
- Roulette (Transformers) & Shadow Striker- BotCon 2003 exclusive remolds of Robots in Disguise Side Burn as a female Autobot and Decepticon.
- Sideswipe - Remold of Robots in Disguise Prowl. A convention exclusive.
- Silverbolt - Redeco of Beast Wars Fuzor as an Autobot.
- Snarl (Transformers) - Redeco of Beast Machines Snarl as an Autobot.
- Sunstreaker - Remold of Robots in Disguise Prowl. A convention exclusive.
- Ultra Magnus - Redeco of Robots in Disguise version.
2004 toys
image:Stockade-universe.jpg
- Air Raid (Transformers) vs. Wind Sheer - A Decepticon and Autobot set of redecoed Generation 2 Cyberjets sold together under the Deluxe size class.
- Blackarachnia - Redeco of Beast Machines version as a Decepticon.
- Bonecrusher - Micromaster forms part of Devastator.
- Buckethead - Micromaster, forms part of Devastator.
- Crystal Widow vs. Oil Slick - A redeco of Beast Machines Blackarachnia as an Autbot with with a remold of Armada Sideswipe as a Decepticon and Mini-Con Search and Destroy), a K-Mart store exclusive.
- Depth Charge - 2004 redeco of Beast Wars version as an Autobot, came with Cybershark drone. Hasbro designer Aaron Archer claimed at BotCon 2004 that this toy's color scheme was meant to resemble Boba Fett's Slave-1.
- Dirt Boss - Armada Dirt Boss packaged with a tiny tin.
- Downshift - Armada Downshift packaged with a tiny tin.
- Fireflight (Transformers) - 2004 redeco of Beast Machines Spy Streak as an Autobot. Came packaged with repaints of the Armada Mini-Cons Firebot and Thunderwing. Sold together as a Deluxe sized set.
- First Aid (Transformers) - 2004 Micromaster redeco of Sireen, forms part of Defensor, a Kaybee store exclusive.
- Autobot Groove (Transformers) - 2004 Micromaster redeco of Glide - forms part of Defensor, a Kaybee store exclusive.
- Hightower (Transformers) - Micromaster forms part of Devastator.
- Hoist (Transformers) - A redeco of Robots in Disguise Spy Changer X-Brawn.
- Hot Spot (Transformers) - 2004 Micromaster redeco of Neo-Wheel, forms part of Defensor, a Kaybee store exclusive.
- Inferno (Transformers) - 2005 redeco of Transformers: Robots in Disguise Prowl, painted in a style resembling Generation One Red Alert. According to Glen Hallit, had the Transformers: Universe comic continued, this character would have been a reincarnation of Beast Wars Inferno.
- Autobot Jazz (Transformers) - A redeco of Robots In Disguise Spy Changer Side Burn.
- King Atlas (Transformers) - A redeco of Predator Skyquake/Machine Wars Starscream as an Autobot, designed to resemble the Japanese-exclusive character Diatlus.
- Longhaul - Micromaster forms part of Devastator.
- Megazarak - Redeco of Armada Megatron (Unicron Trilogy) and Galvatron. Comes with the Mini-Con Caliburn, a redeco of Armada Leader-1. A convention exclusive.
- Mirage (Transformers) - Armada Downshift packaged with a tiny tin.
- Nemesis Prime - Redeco of Japanese Big Optimus Prime, a Target Corporation store exclusive Decepticon.
- Nemesis Strika - Repaint of Beast Machines Strika as a Decepticon.
- Optimus Prime - 2004 repaint of Robots in Disguise Spy Changer Scourge painted to resemble Generation One Optimus Prime.
- Optimus Prime & Prowl- 2004 redeco of Robots in Disguise Spy Changer in yellow, packaged with Spy Changer Prowl. A Walmart exclusive.
- Prowl - 2004 redeco of Road Police, forms part of Defensor.
- Prowl (Transformers) - 2004 redeco of Robots in Disguise Prowl. A Walmart exclusive.
- Quickmix (Transformers) - Micromaster, forms part of Devastator.
- Ramjet (Transformers) - Redeco of Armada Skywarp, Toys-R-Us exclusive. Came with redecos of the Mini-Cons Thunderclash and the Air Military Team.
- Autobot Ratchet (Transformers) - 2004 redeco of Robots in Disguise X-Brawn.
- Red Alert (Transformers) - 2004 redeco of Discharge, forms part of Defensor.
- Ruination - Combined form of the Commandos, a redeco of the Robots in Disguise set. A Walmart exclusive.
- Scavenger (Transformers) - Micromaster, forms part of Devastator.
- Sentinel Maximus - Redeco and remold of Transformers: Armada Overload. His Mini-Con/Headmaster partner was originally to be named Hyperlinq, although it is meant to be the same character as Apelinq. It was changed to Apelinq for the final release through Hasbro.
- Side Burn (Transformers) - 2004 redeco of Robots in Disguise Side Burn. A Walmart exclusive.
- Silverstreak - Repaint of Robots in Disguise Side Swipe.
- Skydive - 2004 redeco of Beast Machines Skydive as an Autobot.
- Skywarp - Repaint of Beast Machines Deluxe Jet Storm, painted in the colors of Generation One Skywarp. Although he is a Decepticon, in the comics he is not allied with Unicron's Decepticon forces, but is a member of the Wreckers, a mostly Autobot and Maximal group.
- Smokescreen (Transformers) vs. Ransack - A redeco of Armada Smokescreen, with Mini-Con, packaged in a "Battle in a Box" with Decepticon Ransack, a redeco of Armada Hoist and Mini-Con Liftor.
- Soundwave (Transformers) & Spacecase - Repaint of the Machine Wars version painted to resemble Generation 1 Soundwave, packaged with a redeco of Generation 2 Spacecase.
- Stockade (Transformers) & Magna Stampede - 2004 redeco of Beast Machines Tank Drone. Sold with Magna Stampede redecoand 2 Mini-Cons, Armada Prowl and Terradive redecos.
- Streetwise (Transformers) - 2004 redeco of Circuit II, forms part of Defensor.
- Dinobot Striker - 2004 redeco of Beast Wars Neo Saberback as an Autobot.
- Sunstorm (Transformers) - Redeco of Armada Thrust (Transformers), packaged with Mini-Con Inferno (redeco of the Armada Mini-Con Inferno) and a redecoed Armada Street Action Team. A Walmart exclusive.
- Swerve (Transformers) - 2004 redeco of Armada Blurr (came packaged with the Mini-Con Roadhandler, a repaint of the Armada Mini-Con Incinerator).
- Tankor & Obsidian (Transformers) - Redeco of Beast Machines version, packaged with Obsidian as Decepticons.
- Dinobot Triceradon - 2004 redeco of Beast Wars Neo Guiledart as an Autobot.
- Ultra Mganus & Ironhide - Redecos of Robots in Disguise Spy Changer Ultra Magnus and Generation 2 Go-Bot Motormouth. A Walmart exclusive.
- Ultra Magnus vs. Treadshot - Redeco of Armada Optimus Prime#Transformers: Armada (Micron Legend) as the Generation One character, with the Mini-Con Over-Run. Packaged in a "Battle in a Box" set with Treadshot (a remold of Armada Side Swipe) and the Mini-Con Nightbeat.
- Wheeljack - A redeco of Robots In Disguise Spy Changer Daytonus.
- (Autobot) Whirl - 2004 redeco of Generation 1 Rotorstorm painted to look like Generation 1 Whirl (Transformers). Came with the Mini-Cons Makeshift and Gunbarrel.
A three of 6 packs of Armada Mini-Cons were released under the Transformers: Energon, but according to the official Hasbro web site these packs were described as Transformers: Universe toys. The sets included Adventure and Sea teams, the Race and Space teams and the Night Attack and Road Wrecker teams.
2005 toys
image:Tscheetoruniverse.jpg
- Arcee - Repackage of Energon Arcee.
- Barricade (Transformers) - Rerelease of Energon Barricade, overstock sold at closeout stores like Big Lots.
- Blastcharge - Black repaint of Beast Machines version.
- Night Slash Cheetor - Redeco of Beast Machines Night Slash Cheetor as an Autobot.
- Doomlock - Repackage of Energon Doomlock.
- Downshift - Kaybee store exclusive redeco of Energon Downshift.
- Frostbite (Transformers) - A redeco of Beast Wars Transmetal II Jawbreaker as a Decepticon.
- Insecticon - Rerelease of Energon Insecticon, available in Family Dollar stores.
- Longhorn (Transformers) - A redeco of Beast Wars transmetal 2 Ramulus. This toy was actually called Transformers: Universe Ramulus on the Hasbro web site, but in the box it was labeled Longhorn.
- Perceptor - A repackage of the Transformers: Energon Mini-Con set.
- Ramjet - BotCon 2005 exclusive redeco of Legends of Cybertron Starscream in the colors of Universe Ramjet.
- Sharkticon - Repackage of Energon Sharkticon.
- Snowcat - Kaybee store exclusive redeco of Energon Snowcat.
- Skywarp - SDCC 2005 exclusive redeco of Legends of Cybertron Starscream in the colors of Generation 1 Skywarp.
- Steamhammer (Transformers) - Rerelease of Energon Steamhammer, similar to Barricade.
- Storm Jet - Repackage of Energon Storm Jet.
- Energon Strongarm (Transformers) - Repackage of Energon Energon Strongarm.
- Windrazor - Repackage of Energon Windrazor.
2006 toys
image:tscamshaft-universe.jpg
- Air Raid - Micromaster Autobot.
- Bonecrusher & Scavenger - Repaint of Robots in Disguise Build Team members painted to look like Generation One Constructicon Bonecrusher and Scavenger. A Target store exclusive.
- Camshaft (Transformers) - 2006 repackage of the second clear recolor Spy Changer W.A.R.S. with a new bio. Character is supposed to be a homage to the Generation 1 Omnibot Camshaft, but isn't the same color. Exclusive to Family Dollar stores.
- Cruellock - Repackage of Energon Cruellock.
- Energon Saber - Repackaged Energon Saber team under the Universe label sold at discount stores.
- Fireflight - Micromaster Autobot.
- Hoist (Transformers) - 2006 repackage of the second clear recolor Spy Changer Ironhide with a new bio. Character is supposed to be a homage to the Generation 1 Hoist. Exclusive to Family Dollar stores.
- Longhaul & Hightower - Repaint of Robots in Disguise Build Team members painted to look like Generation One Constructicon Long Haul and Hook. A Target store exclusive.
- Midnight Express - Micromaster Autobot.
- Mirage (Transformers) - 2006 repackage of the second clear recolor Spy Changer Mirage with a new bio. Character is supposed to be a homage to the Generation 2 Go-Bot Mirage (with which it shares a the same mold). Exclusive to Family Dollar stores.
- Overbite (Transformers) with Repugnus - Repaint of Beast Wars Second Hellscream as a Decepticon with a redeco of Beast Wars Buzzclaw as an Autobot, painted as a homage to Generation One Repugnus. A Target store exclusive.
- Overload - Micromaster Autobot.
- Railspike - Micromaster Autobot.
- Rapid Run - Micromaster Autobot.
- Ro-Tor - Micromaster Autobot.
- Skydive - Micromaster Autobot.
- Signal Flare - Repackage of the Energon toy.
- Silverbolt - Micromaster Autobot.
- Storm Jet - 2006 repaint of Micromaster Raker, a former Japanese exclusive in Generation One.
- Tankor - Micromaster Autobot.
- Terradive - Repackage of Energon Terradive.
- Treadshot - Repackage of Energon Treadshot.
- Wideload (Transformers) - Repackage of Energon Wideload.
2007 toys
image:Backstop.jpgIn July 2007 the Transformers Collectors Club announced that they will be making the
Universe Seacon set available on their web site.
- Backstop - A repackage of Cybertron Scout class toy, released at discount shops.
- Brakedown - A repackage of Cybertron Scout class toy, released at discount shops.
- Brushguard - A repackage of Cybertron Scout class toy, released at discount shops.
- Downshift vs. Cannonball (Transformers) - Repackaged Deluxe toys from the Cybertron line.
- Excellion vs. Thundercracker - Repackaged Deluxe toys from the Cybertron line.
- Lugnutz - A repackage of Cybertron Scout class toy, released at discount shops.
- Optimus Prime vs. Megatron The Ultimate battle - A repackage of the Classic Deluxe 2-pack as Universe toys, available at Dollar General.
- Scattorshot - A repackage of Cybertron Scout class toy, released at discount shops.
- Autobot Swerve (Transformers) - Transforms into a Chevrolet Aveo. This toy is limited to only 2000 items and given away with the purchase of a Chevy Aveo car. Produced in both red and yellow.
- Undermine (Transformers) - A repackage of Cybertron Scout class toy, released at discount shops.
2008 toys
Hasbro announced more
Transformers: Universe toys targetd for release in the fall of 2008. Accoring to Hasbro officials at BotCon 2007 this line will include about about half new molds and half redecos of old molds. Among the figures previewed were:
- Octane - A Classic-style remake of the Generation 1 character.
- Sideswipe - A Classic-style remake of the Generation 1 character.
- Sunstreaker - A Classic-style remake of the Generation 1 character.
Unreleased Transformers: Universe Toys
image:Alphatrion-universe.jpgA number of toys for the Transformers: Universe line were proposed, but never saw the light of day for one reason or another.
- Alpha Trion - Repaint of Beast Machines Snarl (Transformers).
- Blackarachnia - Repaint of the original Tarantulas/Blackarachnia mold. Was going to be released as a Wal-Mart exclusive "Horrorcon Halloween" two-pack with Leatherhide.
- Brawn (Transformers) - Remold of Energon Strongarm as a homage to Generation One Brawn.
- Defensor - remold of Robots in Disguise Optimus Prime.
- Devcon - repaint of Beast Machines Mirage.
- Devcon - Repaint of Energon Slugslinger.
- Drench with Mini-Con Wind Sheer - Repaint of Armada Wheeljack as a homage to Generation Two Drench with Armada Mini-Con Wind Sheer repaint. Was going to be released as a Target Corporation exclusive two-pack with Smokescreen.
- Transmetal Fractyl - Repaint of Beast Wars Transmetal Terrorsaur.
- Leatherhide - Repaint of Beast Wars Mutant Soundwave. Was going to be released as a Wal-Mart exclusive "Horrorcon Halloween" two-pack with Blackarachnia.
- Megatron - Remold of Robots in Disguise Megatron as a homage to Beast Wars Transmetal 2 Megatron.
- Menasor - Decepticon repaint of Generation one Thunderclash. Was going to be called Motormaster at one point, but that name was unavailable.
- Nightprowler - Repaint of the original Beast Wars Cheetor mold. Was going to be released as a Wal-Mart exclusive "Horrorcon Halloween" two-pack with Waspinator.
- Ramulus - Repaint of Beast Wars Ramulus in the green colors had in early issues of the Wreckers comic.
- Roadbuster - Remold of Energon Strongarm as a homage to Generation One Roadbuster.
- Smokescreen with Mini-Con Jolt - Repaint of Armada Hot Shot as a homage to Generation One Smokescreen with Armada Mini-Con Jolt repaint. Was going to be released as a Target Corporation exclusive two-pack with Drench.
- Spacewarp (Transformers) - Decepticon repaint of Armada Jetfire, a homage to Generation One Astrotrain. Was going to be released as a Toys R Us exclusive with repaints of the Transformers: Armada Space Team. The concept has since been revived by Master Collector for a club exclusive figure in 2007, it will feature a new headsculpt and feature the Transformers Cybertron Giant Planet minicon team
- Waspinator - A repaint of transmetal Waspinator. Was going to be released as a Wal-Mart exclusive "Horrorcon Halloween" two-pack with Nightprowler.
Non-
Universe toys which appeared in
Universe
Besides the official
Transformers: Universe toys, the comic book series had a great number of characters from other toy lines make appearances.
This list attempts to account for all the non-Universe characters/toys who made appearances in the two Universe comic series and the Botcon voice plays.
Transformers: Generation 1
- Alpha Trion
- Doublecross
- Grimlock - In his War Within form.
- Grotusque
- Hot Rod - Now known as Rodimus in "The Wreckers".
- Kup
- Perceptor
- Quickmix (Transformers)
- Rad (Transformers)
- Repugnus - Although there was a Universe version of Repugnus, the Repugnus who appeared in Wreckers #4 was in his Generation One form.
- Rodimus Prime - Appeared in a flashback of Rodimus as Rodimus Prime.
- Sideswipe - Appeared in Generation One form before being reformatted into Universe form, then was returned to Generation One form.
- Skids
- Smokescreen (Transformers)
- Sunstreaker - Appeared in Generation One form before being reformatted into Universe form, then was returned to Generation One form.
Appeared in a flashback to Generation One Era
2004 Botcon voice actor play
Characters fleeing captivity from Unicron
- Big Daddy (Transformers) - Micromaster appeared among the characters fleeing captivity from Unicron.
- Brawn (Transformers)
- Ransack (Transformers)
- Squeezeplay
- Trailbreaker
- Wheelie (Transformers) - Appeared in a flashback to Generation One Era and among the characters fleeing captivity from Unicron.
Transformers: Armada
- Megatron (Unicron Trilogy)
- Red Alert (Transformers)
- Smokescreen (Transformers) - A recolor of Armada Smokescreen was released in the toy line, but in the Universe comics Armada Smokescreen appeared in his original colors.
- Star Saber - Appeared in the 2003 Botcon voice actor play being wielded by Megatron.
- Unicron
Beast Wars
image:Airazor-transmetal.jpg
- Fractyl
- Packrat (Transformers) - Blue Transmetal Rattrap toy appeared as Transmetal Packrat.
- Rhinox
- Rockbuster - Appeared among the crowd on Cybertron in Transformers: Universe #1.
- Sonar
- Terrorsaur - Appeared among the characters fleeing the captivity of Unicron.
Maximal High Council
Primeval Dawn Storyline
Beast Machines
- Apelinq#Ape-Linq
- Battle Unicorn - Appeared as a member of the Maximal High Council.
- Blackarachnia - Appeared in Beast Machines form before being reformatted into Universe form.
- Buzzsaw - Appeared among the crowd on Cybertron.
- Cheetor - Appeared in Beast Machines form throughout the Universe comic.
- Deployers#Chro - Name given to blue version of Deployer Rav.
- Quickstrike - Appeared among the crowd on Cybertron.
- Rattrap - Appeared in Beast Machines form throughout the Universe comic.
- Silverbolt - Appeared in Beast Machines form before being reformatted into Universe form.
- Thrust (Transformers) - Appeared among the captives of Unicron.
Characters in "The Wreckers" Comics
- Blastcharge - Although a repaint of Blastcharge was released in the Universe line, the Blastcharge who appeared in the Wreckers comic #1 was in his original colors.
- Cat-Scan
- Deployers#Dillo
- Magmatron
- Deployers#Mol
- Nightscream
- Optimus Primal - Appeared in Wreckers comics and in flashback to his death.
- Primal Prime
- Deployers#Rav
- Scavenger
- Spy Streak
- T-Wrecks
Transformers: Robots in Disguise
- Cryotek
- Dreadwing - Appeared in a Collectors Club bio page as a Universe character.
- Jhiaxus - Appeared in a Collectors Club bio page as the G1 character.
- Megabolt - Appeared in a Collectors Club bio page as a Universe character.
- Landfill (Transformers) - Walmart Exclusive yellow recolor, appeared in the 2004 voice actor play.
- Dreadwing - Appeared in a Collectors Club bio page as a Universe character.
Transformers: Universe is a line of toys consisting of repainted re-releases from various Transformers (toy line)
toy lines. The toy line has spawned several series of
comics and other stories. In addition,
Marvel Comics produced an unrelated mini-series called
Transformers Universe. (see below)
Marvel Comics
Transformers Universe was the name of a 4-issue limited series published by Marvel Comics in
1986 to showcase profiles of the most popular characters in the Transformers series comic and cartoon series, in addition to The Transformers: The Movie. The series was demanded by fans of the comic series who were already familiar with Marvel's own 12+ issue
Marvel Universe reference series profiling their own characters in alphabetical order. After the four issue run (which covered most Transformers used from 1984 to 1986 -- only
Bandai-made figures and those omitted from the American animated series bible were not shown), a second series of Transformers Universe profiles were run in the closing pages of most Transformers comics, from issue #47 to issue #79. These later profiles covered popular characters from 1987 and 1988. The concept was revived in 2002 when
Dreamwave Productions published
Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye (and its sister title for
Transformers: Armada), this time carrying profiles for all Generation 1 (and Armada) characters -- popular and obscure. In addition to providing another concise resource for Transformers characters, the MTMTE series allowed Dreamwave to showcase their artists' new styles of illustrating the pre-1984 to 1991 characters.
Toy Line
image:Transformersuniverse.gifTransformers: Universe is a
Transformers (toy line) comic series and toy line that was started to reintroduce repainted versions of past figures. The Transformers: Universe toy line traces its origins back to when Hasbro imported the
Transformers: Car Robots toy line from Takara and called it
Transformers: Robots in Disguise. Although they made Hasbro versions of most of the Car Robots characters, they also released a number of repainted molds from previous toy lines (yet uncharacterized in
Car Robots; mostly Generation Two and unused Beast Machines concepts) and released them as part of the Robots in Disguise line. When the Robots in Disguise line ended and Transformers: Armada started, the repaint line was given its own title, Transformers: Universe.
Meanwhile the BotCon Covention Comics had a plotline set during and after Beast Machines. This plotline was wrapped up with the repainted figures from RiD and Universe to create the storyline of Transformers: Universe.
Fiction
image:Universecatalog.jpgIn a post
Beast Machines era,
Cybertron is enjoying a time of peace. However, it is cut short when the evil Unicron returns planning to exact his revenge and consume the universe. Using his tremendous powers, he reaches into other time periods and dimensions to assemble an army of familiar faces to challenge the forces of good. In response, Primus (Transformers) resurrects and reformats Optimus Primal, and the two work together to gather an army of their own. Each side takes the name of an ancient Transformer faction: Primus' warriors are the
Autobots and Unicron's are the Decepticons. As the battle progresses, the Transformers radiate
Energon (Power Source), unaware that Unicron is taking this energy for himself.
In the comic series, Unicron consumes the sparks of fallen Transformers, not just energon given off when they die fighting.
Most Universe toys lacked any tech specs on the boxes, however many of the toys did have tech specs appearing on the Transformers official web site or in the short lived
Transformers: Universe and
Wreckers comic books.
3H Enterprises
The Transformers Universe comic series was released through the Official Transformers Collector's Club. It came to an end when the license for the club and convention was given to Master Collector.
Transformers: Universe - Wreckers #1 contained a story called "Departure". Starts with a flashback to late Generation One, where Daniel Witwicky and Wheelie are killed. This puts Daniel's friend Arcee into a sad state. Hot Rod and Springer talk about becoming Maximals. Main story is set in the later episodes of Beast Machines. In "Departure" the Wreckers, Mutants and Dinobots arrive on Cybertron and are sent on missions by the Oracle. Arcee, Dillo, Mol, Rav, Skywarp, Cyclonus, Rotorbolt and Devcon join the Wreckers. Contained Primeval Dawn Part 1, a story set on the Beast Wars Earth just after the Maximals left at the end of the Beast Wars television series. The Vok return Airazor and Tigatron to Earth as Transmetals, and then use the Matrix from Optimus Prime, the Transmetal 2 Driver and the control suit from the Beast Wars which was used by Quickstrike to control Optimal Optimus to create Primal Prime. We learn Tarantulas (Fox Kids repaint colors) and Ravage (Transmetal 2 Tripredacus Agent version) are still alive and are making a new army of Predacons.
Transformers: Universe - Wreckers #2 contained a story called "Betrayal". The Dinobots are attacked by the Dweller. Mutants are killed by the Quintessons. The Wreckers meet Glyph and Tap-Out. Cyclonus betrays the Wreckers for his true master, Cryotek. Contained Primeval Dawn Part 2. The Maximals are joined by Ramulus. The Predacons (Ravage, Razorclaw, Spittor and Iguanus) attack as Tarantulas rips the Matrix out of Primal Prime. In a flashback scene Rodimus Prime consulted Quickmix, Skids, Perceptor and Rad on his plans to send out ships to gather information on threats from space after the defeat of Unicron.
image:wrecker3-dinobots.jpgTransformers: Universe - Wreckers #3 contains a story called "Disclosure". The Wreckers rescue a banished Quintesson who tells them a story of the origin of Cybertron. Dinobots
Terranotron,
T-Wrecks, Triceradon and Dinotron join Devcon, who is hunting Cryotek. Contained the story "Primeval Dawn Part 3".
Primal Prime is reanimated by the Vok.
Transformers: Universe - Wreckers #4 Unreleased issue. Main story would have merged the story with the other Universe comic. Artwork released on the internet contained appearances of the Dinobots, Devcon, Rook, Snarl, Skydive, Longhorn, Che and the Monsterbots. Story involved the invasion of Cybertron by the Quintessons. Would have contained Primeval Dawn Part 4, the last part of that story. Presumably the story would have contained the death of Airazor, the defeat of Tarantulas and the Maximals being joined by Fractyl, Packrat, Spittor and Sonar and returning to Cybertron. The first four pages of this issue were eventually finished and published in issue 16 of the Transformers Collector Club magazine.
image:Primus-universe.jpg consults Primus (Transformers) about the abductions of
War Within Grimlock, Tap-Out,
Generation 1 Brawn (Transformers) and
Armada Megatron.
Transformers: Universe #1 contained a story called "Abduction". Some time after the end of
Beast Machines On the reformatted
technorganic Cybertron Beast Machines Cheetor,
Rattrap, Silverbolt and Blackarachnia were interviewed by the Autobot reporter
Universe Rook (Transformers). They then welcomed the Autobots
Roulette (Transformers), Shadow Striker as well as
Generation 1 Sideswipe, Sunstreaker and Trailbreaker back to Cybertron.
Beast Machines Buzzsaw,
Beast Wars Drill Bit (Transformers),
Beast Machines Quickstrike and
Rockbuster were also present. The returning Autobots along with Blackarachnia and Silverbolt were then abducted via teleportation beams and taken to
Unicron. Tap-Out,
Transformers: Armada Megatron (Unicron Trilogy),
Brawn (Transformers),
War Within Grimlock and
Beast Machines Snarl were also abducted from various timelines. Silverbolt, Blackarachnia, Sideswipe and Sunstreaker were forcibly reformatted by Unicron into their
Universe forms. Taken captive by
Universe Razorclaw,
Reptilion, Obsidian (Transformers), Tankor and Striker, the Autobots were forced to fight one another. They witnessed
Armada Smokescreen (Transformers) kill
Generation 1 Smokescreen, whose spark was absorbed by Unicron. Sensing the need for a champion
Primus (Transformers) and Alpha Trion brings
Optimus Primal back to life.
Transformers: Universe #2 contained a story called "Escape". After the events of the Botcon 2003 voice actor play Optimus Primal, Megatron and Grimlock are holding Striker defeated. Optimus Primal is able to use his spark telepathy to free Striker from Unicron's influence. Sideswipe and Sunstreaker are forced to fight. Silverbolt and Trailbreaker discover that each of their holding cells are attuned to the spark energy signature of its occupant. In order to escape their prisons Trailbreaker and Silverbolt swap sparks for a brief time, and are able to break out of each others cells. Optimus Primal helps break free the slaves from various timelines which are held there and gets them to Cybertron. Blackarachnia and Shadow Striker defect to the Decepticons and stay behind. Blackarachnia discovers Tarantulas (Transformers) is working for Unicron.
Transformers: Universe #3 Optimus Primal pleads with
Magnaboss and the Maximal High council (which includes
Bantor,
Air Hammer, Corahda,
Torca and
Battle Unicorn) to take the threat of Unicron seriously, but they doubt his claims. Optimus Primal is detained, but Snarl frees him. Alpha Trion and Primus claim they need Primal to choose his troops from any Cybertonians past or present, and he chooses
Rhinox and
Depth Charge, who are brought back to life. Although Rhinox is happy to have a second chance to redeem himself, Depth Charge isn't pleased with being brought back from the dead. Depth Charge rescues Rattrap from an attack by Blackarachnia.
Plans were for the two titles to merge after the fourth issues into one story, but both titles were canceled after 3 issues and never got a chance to merge.
OFTCC Voice Actor Dramas
In the 2003 OFTCC Voice Actor Drama by Simon Furman
War Within Grimlock,
Armada Megatron (Unicron Trilogy) and
Universe Optimus Primal are each transported to the Unicron world, where they eventually team up and fight
Striker (Transformers) and
Reptilion. This story takes place between issues #1 and # 2 of the
Transformers: Universe comic series. There is a small continuity error in that this story ends with Grimlock, Megatron and Primal standing over Reptilion, but issue #2 of the comic starts with them standing over Striker.
The Voice Actor Drama was written for
OFTCC 2004 by Simon Furman, set after the events in the comics. Rhinox has built a device to deflect Unicron's attempts to pull victims from other dimensions with his tractor beam. The Autobots deflect two attempts and the victims end up on a frozen planetoid instead of with Unicron.
Maximals Rattrap and Silverbolt and the Predacon Waspinator are sent to help the victims, but
Reptilion,
Sunstorm (Transformers),
Ruination and the Mini-Con gestalt Perceptor are sent to get them for Unicron. As a side effect of the device Rhinox built, a
vortex opens which sucks in an Autobot shuttle from the past piloted by Bumblebee (Transformers), Tracks (Transformers) and
Cosmos (Transformers). Sunstorm attacks the Maximal ship, but they are saved by being transported to the Autobot shuttle. The Autobots and Maximals then go to the planet where they save the victims from the Decepticons. On the planet are two groups of Autobots. One is from the
Robots in Disguise story, with
Landfill (Transformers) (Walmart recolor),
Universe Side Burn and
Universe Prowl. The other is from another parallel world with
Spy Changer Optimus Prime, Ultra Magnus, Prowl and Ironhide. They successfully fight off the Decepticons. The Autobot shuttle is sent back to its own time.
Fun Publications
The
Transformers: Cybertron comic featured Sentinel Maximus, a character who is the fused form of the Transformers characters Primal Prime and Apelinq, who were merged to be able to defeat
Cryotek during an untold story. Universe characters Nemesis Prime, Ramjet and his Mini-Cons also appeared in this story.
In the comic story found in issue 8 of the Transformers Collectors Club magazine
Robots in Disguise Optimus Prime told the story of the last battle he was in, set in the Transformers: Universe storyline. Alongside
10th Anniversary Optimus Primal they attacked the last of
Unicron's forces when Unicron suddenly disappeared, and they barely escaped. Among the Autobot forces were
Universe Fireflight, King Atlas,
Universe Night Slash Cheetor,
Universe Longhorn,
Universe Prowl,
Universe Repugnus, Rhinox,
Universe Side Burn,
Universe Silverbolt,
Generation One Sideswipe,
Generation One Sunstreaker, Tap-Out, Trailbreaker,
Cybertron/Robots in Disguise Ultra Magnus and
Universe Whirl. Among the Decepticons were
Universe Blackarachnia, Nemesis
Strika,
Universe Obsidian,
Universe Razorclaw, Reptilion and
Universe Skywarp.
Transformers: Universe toys
2002 toys
Although the
Transformers: Universe line didn't start until late 2003, several convention exclusives were released in 2002 bearing the
Transformers: Expanded Universe title, and they were worked into the
Universe line.
- CatSCAN - A redeco of Beast Machines Night Slash Cheetor.
- Cyclonus - Redeco of 'Beast Machines Jetstorm, a BotCon 2002 exclusive.
- Glyph (Transformers) - Recolor of Generation One Bumblebee keychain. A BotCon 2002 exclusive.
- Rook (Transformers) - Recolor of Generation 1 Windcharger keychain. A BotCon Europe 2002 Exclusive.
- Tap-Out - Recolor of Generation 1 Cliffjumper keychain. A BotCon 2002 exclusive.
2003 toys
image:Razorclaw-universe.jpg
- Optimus Primal - Redeco of first Beast Wars gorilla version as an Autobot.
- Optimus Prime - Redeco of Robots in Disguise version in yellow.
- Razorclaw - Redeco of Beast Wars Tigerhawk as a Decepticon.
- Reptilion - Redeco of Beast Wars Transmetal 2 Iguanus as a Decepticon.
- Roulette (Transformers) & Shadow Striker- BotCon 2003 exclusive remolds of Robots in Disguise Side Burn as a female Autobot and Decepticon.
- Sideswipe - Remold of Robots in Disguise Prowl. A convention exclusive.
- Silverbolt - Redeco of Beast Wars Fuzor as an Autobot.
- Snarl (Transformers) - Redeco of Beast Machines Snarl as an Autobot.
- Sunstreaker - Remold of Robots in Disguise Prowl. A convention exclusive.
- Ultra Magnus - Redeco of Robots in Disguise version.
2004 toys
image:Stockade-universe.jpg
- Air Raid (Transformers) vs. Wind Sheer - A Decepticon and Autobot set of redecoed Generation 2 Cyberjets sold together under the Deluxe size class.
- Blackarachnia - Redeco of Beast Machines version as a Decepticon.
- Bonecrusher - Micromaster forms part of Devastator.
- Buckethead - Micromaster, forms part of Devastator.
- Crystal Widow vs. Oil Slick - A redeco of Beast Machines Blackarachnia as an Autbot with with a remold of Armada Sideswipe as a Decepticon and Mini-Con Search and Destroy), a K-Mart store exclusive.
- Depth Charge - 2004 redeco of Beast Wars version as an Autobot, came with Cybershark drone. Hasbro designer Aaron Archer claimed at BotCon 2004 that this toy's color scheme was meant to resemble Boba Fett's Slave-1.
- Dirt Boss - Armada Dirt Boss packaged with a tiny tin.
- Downshift - Armada Downshift packaged with a tiny tin.
- Fireflight (Transformers) - 2004 redeco of Beast Machines Spy Streak as an Autobot. Came packaged with repaints of the Armada Mini-Cons Firebot and Thunderwing. Sold together as a Deluxe sized set.
- First Aid (Transformers) - 2004 Micromaster redeco of Sireen, forms part of Defensor, a Kaybee store exclusive.
- Autobot Groove (Transformers) - 2004 Micromaster redeco of Glide - forms part of Defensor, a Kaybee store exclusive.
- Hightower (Transformers) - Micromaster forms part of Devastator.
- Hoist (Transformers) - A redeco of Robots in Disguise Spy Changer X-Brawn.
- Hot Spot (Transformers) - 2004 Micromaster redeco of Neo-Wheel, forms part of Defensor, a Kaybee store exclusive.
- Inferno (Transformers) - 2005 redeco of Transformers: Robots in Disguise Prowl, painted in a style resembling Generation One Red Alert. According to Glen Hallit, had the Transformers: Universe comic continued, this character would have been a reincarnation of Beast Wars Inferno.
- Autobot Jazz (Transformers) - A redeco of Robots In Disguise Spy Changer Side Burn.
- King Atlas (Transformers) - A redeco of Predator Skyquake/Machine Wars Starscream as an Autobot, designed to resemble the Japanese-exclusive character Diatlus.
- Longhaul - Micromaster forms part of Devastator.
- Megazarak - Redeco of Armada Megatron (Unicron Trilogy) and Galvatron. Comes with the Mini-Con Caliburn, a redeco of Armada Leader-1. A convention exclusive.
- Mirage (Transformers) - Armada Downshift packaged with a tiny tin.
- Nemesis Prime - Redeco of Japanese Big Optimus Prime, a Target Corporation store exclusive Decepticon.
- Nemesis Strika - Repaint of Beast Machines Strika as a Decepticon.
- Optimus Prime - 2004 repaint of Robots in Disguise Spy Changer Scourge painted to resemble Generation One Optimus Prime.
- Optimus Prime & Prowl- 2004 redeco of Robots in Disguise Spy Changer in yellow, packaged with Spy Changer Prowl. A Walmart exclusive.
- Prowl - 2004 redeco of Road Police, forms part of Defensor.
- Prowl (Transformers) - 2004 redeco of Robots in Disguise Prowl. A Walmart exclusive.
- Quickmix (Transformers) - Micromaster, forms part of Devastator.
- Ramjet (Transformers) - Redeco of Armada Skywarp, Toys-R-Us exclusive. Came with redecos of the Mini-Cons Thunderclash and the Air Military Team.
- Autobot Ratchet (Transformers) - 2004 redeco of Robots in Disguise X-Brawn.
- Red Alert (Transformers) - 2004 redeco of Discharge, forms part of Defensor.
- Ruination - Combined form of the Commandos, a redeco of the Robots in Disguise set. A Walmart exclusive.
- Scavenger (Transformers) - Micromaster, forms part of Devastator.
- Sentinel Maximus - Redeco and remold of Transformers: Armada Overload. His Mini-Con/Headmaster partner was originally to be named Hyperlinq, although it is meant to be the same character as Apelinq. It was changed to Apelinq for the final release through Hasbro.
- Side Burn (Transformers) - 2004 redeco of Robots in Disguise Side Burn. A Walmart exclusive.
- Silverstreak - Repaint of Robots in Disguise Side Swipe.
- Skydive - 2004 redeco of Beast Machines Skydive as an Autobot.
- Skywarp - Repaint of Beast Machines Deluxe Jet Storm, painted in the colors of Generation One Skywarp. Although he is a Decepticon, in the comics he is not allied with Unicron's Decepticon forces, but is a member of the Wreckers, a mostly Autobot and Maximal group.
- Smokescreen (Transformers) vs. Ransack - A redeco of Armada Smokescreen, with Mini-Con, packaged in a "Battle in a Box" with Decepticon Ransack, a redeco of Armada Hoist and Mini-Con Liftor.
- Soundwave (Transformers) & Spacecase - Repaint of the Machine Wars version painted to resemble Generation 1 Soundwave, packaged with a redeco of Generation 2 Spacecase.
- Stockade (Transformers) & Magna Stampede - 2004 redeco of Beast Machines Tank Drone. Sold with Magna Stampede redecoand 2 Mini-Cons, Armada Prowl and Terradive redecos.
- Streetwise (Transformers) - 2004 redeco of Circuit II, forms part of Defensor.
- Dinobot Striker - 2004 redeco of Beast Wars Neo Saberback as an Autobot.
- Sunstorm (Transformers) - Redeco of Armada Thrust (Transformers), packaged with Mini-Con Inferno (redeco of the Armada Mini-Con Inferno) and a redecoed Armada Street Action Team. A Walmart exclusive.
- Swerve (Transformers) - 2004 redeco of Armada Blurr (came packaged with the Mini-Con Roadhandler, a repaint of the Armada Mini-Con Incinerator).
- Tankor & Obsidian (Transformers) - Redeco of Beast Machines version, packaged with Obsidian as Decepticons.
- Dinobot Triceradon - 2004 redeco of Beast Wars Neo Guiledart as an Autobot.
- Ultra Mganus & Ironhide - Redecos of Robots in Disguise Spy Changer Ultra Magnus and Generation 2 Go-Bot Motormouth. A Walmart exclusive.
- Ultra Magnus vs. Treadshot - Redeco of Armada Optimus Prime#Transformers: Armada (Micron Legend) as the Generation One character, with the Mini-Con Over-Run. Packaged in a "Battle in a Box" set with Treadshot (a remold of Armada Side Swipe) and the Mini-Con Nightbeat.
- Wheeljack - A redeco of Robots In Disguise Spy Changer Daytonus.
- (Autobot) Whirl - 2004 redeco of Generation 1 Rotorstorm painted to look like Generation 1 Whirl (Transformers). Came with the Mini-Cons Makeshift and Gunbarrel.
A three of 6 packs of Armada Mini-Cons were released under the Transformers: Energon, but according to the official Hasbro web site these packs were described as Transformers: Universe toys. The sets included Adventure and Sea teams, the Race and Space teams and the Night Attack and Road Wrecker teams.
2005 toys
image:Tscheetoruniverse.jpg
- Arcee - Repackage of Energon Arcee.
- Barricade (Transformers) - Rerelease of Energon Barricade, overstock sold at closeout stores like Big Lots.
- Blastcharge - Black repaint of Beast Machines version.
- Night Slash Cheetor - Redeco of Beast Machines Night Slash Cheetor as an Autobot.
- Doomlock - Repackage of Energon Doomlock.
- Downshift - Kaybee store exclusive redeco of Energon Downshift.
- Frostbite (Transformers) - A redeco of Beast Wars Transmetal II Jawbreaker as a Decepticon.
- Insecticon - Rerelease of Energon Insecticon, available in Family Dollar stores.
- Longhorn (Transformers) - A redeco of Beast Wars transmetal 2 Ramulus. This toy was actually called Transformers: Universe Ramulus on the Hasbro web site, but in the box it was labeled Longhorn.
- Perceptor - A repackage of the Transformers: Energon Mini-Con set.
- Ramjet - BotCon 2005 exclusive redeco of Legends of Cybertron Starscream in the colors of Universe Ramjet.
- Sharkticon - Repackage of Energon Sharkticon.
- Snowcat - Kaybee store exclusive redeco of Energon Snowcat.
- Skywarp - SDCC 2005 exclusive redeco of Legends of Cybertron Starscream in the colors of Generation 1 Skywarp.
- Steamhammer (Transformers) - Rerelease of Energon Steamhammer, similar to Barricade.
- Storm Jet - Repackage of Energon Storm Jet.
- Energon Strongarm (Transformers) - Repackage of Energon Energon Strongarm.
- Windrazor - Repackage of Energon Windrazor.
2006 toys
image:tscamshaft-universe.jpg
- Air Raid - Micromaster Autobot.
- Bonecrusher & Scavenger - Repaint of Robots in Disguise Build Team members painted to look like Generation One Constructicon Bonecrusher and Scavenger. A Target store exclusive.
- Camshaft (Transformers) - 2006 repackage of the second clear recolor Spy Changer W.A.R.S. with a new bio. Character is supposed to be a homage to the Generation 1 Omnibot Camshaft, but isn't the same color. Exclusive to Family Dollar stores.
- Cruellock - Repackage of Energon Cruellock.
- Energon Saber - Repackaged Energon Saber team under the Universe label sold at discount stores.
- Fireflight - Micromaster Autobot.
- Hoist (Transformers) - 2006 repackage of the second clear recolor Spy Changer Ironhide with a new bio. Character is supposed to be a homage to the Generation 1 Hoist. Exclusive to Family Dollar stores.
- Longhaul & Hightower - Repaint of Robots in Disguise Build Team members painted to look like Generation One Constructicon Long Haul and Hook. A Target store exclusive.
- Midnight Express - Micromaster Autobot.
- Mirage (Transformers) - 2006 repackage of the second clear recolor Spy Changer Mirage with a new bio. Character is supposed to be a homage to the Generation 2 Go-Bot Mirage (with which it shares a the same mold). Exclusive to Family Dollar stores.
- Overbite (Transformers) with Repugnus - Repaint of Beast Wars Second Hellscream as a Decepticon with a redeco of Beast Wars Buzzclaw as an Autobot, painted as a homage to Generation One Repugnus. A Target store exclusive.
- Overload - Micromaster Autobot.
- Railspike - Micromaster Autobot.
- Rapid Run - Micromaster Autobot.
- Ro-Tor - Micromaster Autobot.
- Skydive - Micromaster Autobot.
- Signal Flare - Repackage of the Energon toy.
- Silverbolt - Micromaster Autobot.
- Storm Jet - 2006 repaint of Micromaster Raker, a former Japanese exclusive in Generation One.
- Tankor - Micromaster Autobot.
- Terradive - Repackage of Energon Terradive.
- Treadshot - Repackage of Energon Treadshot.
- Wideload (Transformers) - Repackage of Energon Wideload.
2007 toys
image:Backstop.jpgIn July 2007 the Transformers Collectors Club announced that they will be making the
Universe Seacon set available on their web site.
- Backstop - A repackage of Cybertron Scout class toy, released at discount shops.
- Brakedown - A repackage of Cybertron Scout class toy, released at discount shops.
- Brushguard - A repackage of Cybertron Scout class toy, released at discount shops.
- Downshift vs. Cannonball (Transformers) - Repackaged Deluxe toys from the Cybertron line.
- Excellion vs. Thundercracker - Repackaged Deluxe toys from the Cybertron line.
- Lugnutz - A repackage of Cybertron Scout class toy, released at discount shops.
- Optimus Prime vs. Megatron The Ultimate battle - A repackage of the Classic Deluxe 2-pack as Universe toys, available at Dollar General.
- Scattorshot - A repackage of Cybertron Scout class toy, released at discount shops.
- Autobot Swerve (Transformers) - Transforms into a Chevrolet Aveo. This toy is limited to only 2000 items and given away with the purchase of a Chevy Aveo car. Produced in both red and yellow.
- Undermine (Transformers) - A repackage of Cybertron Scout class toy, released at discount shops.
2008 toys
Hasbro announced more
Transformers: Universe toys targetd for release in the fall of 2008. Accoring to Hasbro officials at BotCon 2007 this line will include about about half new molds and half redecos of old molds. Among the figures previewed were:
- Octane - A Classic-style remake of the Generation 1 character.
- Sideswipe - A Classic-style remake of the Generation 1 character.
- Sunstreaker - A Classic-style remake of the Generation 1 character.
Unreleased Transformers: Universe Toys
image:Alphatrion-universe.jpgA number of toys for the Transformers: Universe line were proposed, but never saw the light of day for one reason or another.
- Alpha Trion - Repaint of Beast Machines Snarl (Transformers).
- Blackarachnia - Repaint of the original Tarantulas/Blackarachnia mold. Was going to be released as a Wal-Mart exclusive "Horrorcon Halloween" two-pack with Leatherhide.
- Brawn (Transformers) - Remold of Energon Strongarm as a homage to Generation One Brawn.
- Defensor - remold of Robots in Disguise Optimus Prime.
- Devcon - repaint of Beast Machines Mirage.
- Devcon - Repaint of Energon Slugslinger.
- Drench with Mini-Con Wind Sheer - Repaint of Armada Wheeljack as a homage to Generation Two Drench with Armada Mini-Con Wind Sheer repaint. Was going to be released as a Target Corporation exclusive two-pack with Smokescreen.
- Transmetal Fractyl - Repaint of Beast Wars Transmetal Terrorsaur.
- Leatherhide - Repaint of Beast Wars Mutant Soundwave. Was going to be released as a Wal-Mart exclusive "Horrorcon Halloween" two-pack with Blackarachnia.
- Megatron - Remold of Robots in Disguise Megatron as a homage to Beast Wars Transmetal 2 Megatron.
- Menasor - Decepticon repaint of Generation one Thunderclash. Was going to be called Motormaster at one point, but that name was unavailable.
- Nightprowler - Repaint of the original Beast Wars Cheetor mold. Was going to be released as a Wal-Mart exclusive "Horrorcon Halloween" two-pack with Waspinator.
- Ramulus - Repaint of Beast Wars Ramulus in the green colors had in early issues of the Wreckers comic.
- Roadbuster - Remold of Energon Strongarm as a homage to Generation One Roadbuster.
- Smokescreen with Mini-Con Jolt - Repaint of Armada Hot Shot as a homage to Generation One Smokescreen with Armada Mini-Con Jolt repaint. Was going to be released as a Target Corporation exclusive two-pack with Drench.
- Spacewarp (Transformers) - Decepticon repaint of Armada Jetfire, a homage to Generation One Astrotrain. Was going to be released as a Toys R Us exclusive with repaints of the Transformers: Armada Space Team. The concept has since been revived by Master Collector for a club exclusive figure in 2007, it will feature a new headsculpt and feature the Transformers Cybertron Giant Planet minicon team
- Waspinator - A repaint of transmetal Waspinator. Was going to be released as a Wal-Mart exclusive "Horrorcon Halloween" two-pack with Nightprowler.
Non-
Universe toys which appeared in
Universe
Besides the official
Transformers: Universe toys, the comic book series had a great number of characters from other toy lines make appearances.
This list attempts to account for all the non-Universe characters/toys who made appearances in the two Universe comic series and the Botcon voice plays.
Transformers: Generation 1
- Alpha Trion
- Doublecross
- Grimlock - In his War Within form.
- Grotusque
- Hot Rod - Now known as Rodimus in "The Wreckers".
- Kup
- Perceptor
- Quickmix (Transformers)
- Rad (Transformers)
- Repugnus - Although there was a Universe version of Repugnus, the Repugnus who appeared in Wreckers #4 was in his Generation One form.
- Rodimus Prime - Appeared in a flashback of Rodimus as Rodimus Prime.
- Sideswipe - Appeared in Generation One form before being reformatted into Universe form, then was returned to Generation One form.
- Skids
- Smokescreen (Transformers)
- Sunstreaker - Appeared in Generation One form before being reformatted into Universe form, then was returned to Generation One form.
Appeared in a flashback to Generation One Era
2004 Botcon voice actor play
Characters fleeing captivity from Unicron
- Big Daddy (Transformers) - Micromaster appeared among the characters fleeing captivity from Unicron.
- Brawn (Transformers)
- Ransack (Transformers)
- Squeezeplay
- Trailbreaker
- Wheelie (Transformers) - Appeared in a flashback to Generation One Era and among the characters fleeing captivity from Unicron.
Transformers: Armada
- Megatron (Unicron Trilogy)
- Red Alert (Transformers)
- Smokescreen (Transformers) - A recolor of Armada Smokescreen was released in the toy line, but in the Universe comics Armada Smokescreen appeared in his original colors.
- Star Saber - Appeared in the 2003 Botcon voice actor play being wielded by Megatron.
- Unicron
Beast Wars
image:Airazor-transmetal.jpg
- Fractyl
- Packrat (Transformers) - Blue Transmetal Rattrap toy appeared as Transmetal Packrat.
- Rhinox
- Rockbuster - Appeared among the crowd on Cybertron in Transformers: Universe #1.
- Sonar
- Terrorsaur - Appeared among the characters fleeing the captivity of Unicron.
Maximal High Council
Primeval Dawn Storyline
Beast Machines
- Apelinq#Ape-Linq
- Battle Unicorn - Appeared as a member of the Maximal High Council.
- Blackarachnia - Appeared in Beast Machines form before being reformatted into Universe form.
- Buzzsaw - Appeared among the crowd on Cybertron.
- Cheetor - Appeared in Beast Machines form throughout the Universe comic.
- Deployers#Chro - Name given to blue version of Deployer Rav.
- Quickstrike - Appeared among the crowd on Cybertron.
- Rattrap - Appeared in Beast Machines form throughout the Universe comic.
- Silverbolt - Appeared in Beast Machines form before being reformatted into Universe form.
- Thrust (Transformers) - Appeared among the captives of Unicron.
Characters in "The Wreckers" Comics
Transformers: Robots in Disguise
- Cryotek
- Dreadwing - Appeared in a Collectors Club bio page as a Universe character.
- Jhiaxus - Appeared in a Collectors Club bio page as the G1 character.
- Megabolt - Appeared in a Collectors Club bio page as a Universe character.
- Landfill (Transformers) - Walmart Exclusive yellow recolor, appeared in the 2004 voice actor play.
- Dreadwing - Appeared in a Collectors Club bio page as a Universe character.