Transformers #26

Transformers (2023) (Single Issues)

by Robert Kirkman, Dan Mora (Artist), Mike Spicer (Artist)

ROBERT KIRKMAN AND DAN MORA SHAKE UP THE ENERGON UNIVERSE! 
  
Optimus Prime…betrayed? 
  
The Autobots’ newest hope may turn out to be their downfall. 
  
The most shocking TRANSFORMERS story continues here!

Genres: Comics

Kindle Edition

Published November 12, 2025

About the author

Robert Kirkman is an American comic book writer best known for his work on The Walking Dead, Invincible for Image Comics, as well as Ultimate X-Men and Marvel Zombies for Marvel Comics. He has also collaborated with Image Comics co-founder Todd McFarlane on the series Haunt. He is one of the five partners of Image Comics, and the only one of the five who was not one of the original co-founders of that publisher.

Robert Kirkman's first comic books were self-published under his own Funk-o-Tron label. Along with childhood friend Tony Moore, Kirkman created Battle Pope which was published in late 2001. Battle Pope ran for over 2 years along with other Funk-o-Tron published books such as InkPunks and Double Take.

In July of 2002, Robert's first work for another company began, with a 4-part SuperPatriot series for Image, along with Battle Pope backup story artist Cory Walker. Robert's creator-owned projects followed shortly thereafter, including Tech Jacket, Invincible and Walking Dead.

Reviews

[Nicolo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kirkman is cooking! Knowing the writer's predilection for character deaths in his own works like The Walking Dead and Invincible, I'm a bit fearful for my favorite characters in this title. Kirkman has revealed that the original Transformers movie (1986) definitely left an impression on his young mind. Especially, the death of Optimus Prime and other Transformers. He's been chasing that emotional impact in his writing ever since, he's been getting quite good at it.

[Carly · Rating 5 out of 5]

the stark contrast between Optimus repairing Skywarp before himself or any of the Autobots compared to Megatron saying there's not enough energon for his repairs let alone the rest of the Decepticons. we love a strong leader. also I'm calling it, Flagg is gonna make Nemisis Prime.

[Machiavelli · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another really strong chapter in the run. Dan Mora continues to deliver phenomenal art—dynamic, expressive, and packed with impact. Kirkman balances action and character moments well, keeping the story moving with emotional clarity and big, satisfying beats.

A great entry with excellent visuals and strong storytelling. Solid 4⭐️.

[Craig Schorling · Rating 5 out of 5]

More great stuff. There are some betrayals and Optimus continues to show his compassionate side. Mora's art is so good. I would like more moments with Spike and Carly moving forward.

[Bella Morteo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it. I love how Optimus helped skywarp without hesitation for his repair and how Thundercracker was willing to let the Autobots help him. I am sad that Skywarp betray and treated Thundercracker after everything he did to save him and get back to him. It truly shows how is willing to change to help someone and to help themselves. Also Elita, I understand her rage and hatred towards Earth. I mean…She was left on Cybertron to fight whatever was left of it and Optimus and the rest of the Autobots are fighting on Earth. It’s sad but I can feel why she’s upset at Optimus. I also love how Cliffjumper is still standing his ground after Elita is calling him a traitor and making him go to the Decepitcons base to get supplies. I also love when he said “I’ll go so that when you confront Optimus—He can talk some sense to you!” That made me chuckled.

[Connor · Rating 3 out of 5]

Started this series from issue 1 over 2 years ago now and while I'm not a big Transformers fan i can see the merit in run, each issue has been action packed and pretty exciting, recently has gone through a shake up with staff which i like just a little bit better, the art is clearer, not that the earlier art was bad because it was far from it, it was just harder to take in for me while these last few issues have been easier on my eyes. A must read for any Transformers fan.

[Matt · Rating 3 out of 5]

Setups for some interesting plots involving Thundercracker and CliffJumper. Somewhat awkward inclusion of a Spike/Carly scene that is just a bit cheesy and not sure why it's there other than to show off Shredhead again. Art is incredible though.

[rocco · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thundercracker as an autobot. I used to pray for times like this.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thundercracker gets 4 stars.

[Myles Gerber · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

[Dennis Brock · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cover Art for the last few issues have been fire 🔥, as well as the art within!
The merging stories of the Energon Universe have been wonderfully written! Solid & thoroughly engaging!
4/5

[Susan :3 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Art Style is Looking Good So Far…

Still getting adjusted to the different art style compared to Daniel Warren Johnson.

IS THUNDERCRACKER BECOMING A AUTOBOT???
LETS GOOOO

[Aaron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kirkmans been keeping it in style with the earlier run, still going strong!