Daniel Warren Johnson is a Chicago-based comic book writer, artist, and illustrator. He's worked on titles for most major publishers, including Marvel, DC, Dark Horse, and Image. His current series with Skybound/Image Comics is EXTREMITY, a sci-fi/fantasy title he is writing and drawing, and continues to update his webcomic Space-Mullet in his spare time.
THUNDERCRACKER HAS LEARNED THE TRUTH AND HAS DESERTED???? WAR BETWEEN STARSCREAM AND SOUNDWAVE?????? OPTIMUS IS GETTING MORE CONSUMED BY THE MATRIX???? CLIFF IS STUCK ON CYBERTRON WITH ELITA AND BLUESTREAK???? TRAILBREAKER LIVES???????
And most importantly:
MEGATRON IS FREE?????????
Man these issues are way too short. I can’t wait to see where Johnson goes from here.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Daniel Warren Johnson's Transformers series, which began in 2023, has revitalized the franchise with fresh storytelling and dynamic artistry. Initially both writing and illustrating, Johnson later collaborated with artist Jorge Corona from issue #7 onwards, maintaining the series' momentum and quality.
The series has been lauded for its compelling storytelling and character development. Critics have noted that each issue is satisfying on its own, with enough hooks to keep readers engaged monthly. The human characters, such as Spike, Carly, and Sparkplug, are well-integrated, adding depth to the narrative and exploring themes of family and redemption.
One standout aspect is that, while the series is tied into the Energon Universe, it reads as its own standalone book. For many fans, this separation is a significant strength. Hasbro has long envisioned the Transformers and G.I. Joe universes as interconnected, with various iterations attempting to merge these iconic franchises. However, Robert Kirkman’s Skybound Comics Energon Universe has struck a balance, delivering a great storyline that respects both properties without overwhelming crossovers.
The artwork, initially by Johnson and later by Corona, has been a standout feature. The dynamic and fluid illustrations bring the Transformers to life, with action scenes that are both kinetic and impactful. The vibrant color work by Mike Spicer enhances the visual experience, making each scene pop with energy.
As the series progressed, it introduced new characters and deeper plotlines, maintaining a balance between action and emotional depth. The portrayal of the Autobots and Decepticons has been noted for its complexity, showcasing both the heroism and the darker aspects of these factions.
Overall, Johnson and Corona’s Transformers series has been a critical success, breathing new life into the franchise with its engaging storytelling, dynamic artwork, and thoughtful character development. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Transformers universe, appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers alike, while also contributing to the broader Energon Universe in a way that feels natural and unforced.
Finished 1/8/25 - I laughed out loud at a specific panel in this issue! (cue Thomas the Tank engine theme).
Even though this issue primarily focuses on the battle between Decepticons at the dam, the layers of emotion continue to keep me glued to the pages. I was thrilled when a prediction of mine toward Thundercracker came true and--what the hell is happening to Optimus Prime?!?? Johnson, Corona, and the whole team at Skybound/Image make these single issues a joy to read--both at first purchase and on reread. I'm happy to let them empty my bank account.
Sigue fascinándome como cualquier cosa que en las series originales pasa sin pena ni gloria como un versus físico entre dos Transformers gigantes, en este cómic se tiene total constancia del peligro y amenaza no solo para los demás robots transformables. Daniel Warren Johnson sigue adelantande encarando el conflicto Cybertroniano en la Tierra como nunca antes se ha visto y nuevamente acompañado de Jorge Corona al dibujo. Por supuesto, el desenlace del número ya inserta la última pieza conocida para volver a poner patas arriba este tablero a varias bandas.
A fantastic issue again, this series hasn’t had a single low point. The art, the writing, the colouring, everything is golden. The ending blew me away.
The Decepticons are falling apart, divided internally, and because of it, the reader is blessed with a two-page spread of Combiner-on-Combiner violence, a kaiju-sized slobber knocker.