Transformers: Optimus Prime #16
Story: John Barber Art: Kei Zama Cover: Kei Zama
Color: Josh Burcham Letterer: Tom B. Long
Editor: David Mariotte
The Falling, Part 2: The arrival of Onyx Prime throws Cybertron into chaos—because he hasn’t come alone. Onyx’s treacherous companion forces Soundwave to finally make a choice: is Optimus Prime a friend… or foe?
FC • 32 pages • $3.99
Transformers: Optimus Prime Vol. 2
(W) John Barber (A) Casey W. Coller, Kei Zama, Livio Ramondelli (A/CA) Priscilla Tramontano
In Shops: Jan 24, 2018
SRP: $19.99
Explore the aftermath of Optimus Prime and his Autobots stopping an alien invasion of Earth. Diving into stories of war, peace, loss, regret, and redemption, this volume of Optimus Prime gives readers dramatic Transformers stories that spotlight the Autobots’ present and past struggles while setting the stage for future surprises! Collects Transformers: Optimus Prime issues #7-10 and the Transformers Annual 2017.
Darkness falls over Cybertron as the legendary Onyx Prime returns. What does this mean for Optimus Prime-and the Earth? Windblade defends an already tense planet against a secret that could shatter Cybertron forever.
It feels like Cybertron can’t catch a break. There was the recent attack by Liege. There was the attack by Colton. Peace is a finger tip away at times and the world of Transformers can’t quite grasp it. Transformers: Optimus Prime #15 kicks off the next big story arc as Onyx Prime returns. Writer John Barber sets things up well giving us an ominous build up that feels like it’s more horror story than giant robots battling it out.
Onyx Prime is back and it feels like he’s about to pass religious judgement on the beings of Cybertron, which gives the comic religious overtones on top of the horror (and the two are often intertwined). What this arc feels like it is doing is diving into that religious aspect that has been built up for some time with the worship of the Primes and the Mistress of the Flame. The religious aspects are being explored more and for a comic about giant robots, that’s deeper than a lot are expecting I’m sure.
The art by Kei Zama is fantastic and all of the various characters are unique and detailed. I’m always impressed with the art in these comics as there is no short shrift with every character, even those in the background, shown with personality and a look that’s unique to them.
I loved this comic and the only reason I’m rating it as a “read” is because for the average reader, it might not make a whole lot of sense. This one dives deep into continuity and the Transformers world and while it does a solid job of catching readers up, it isn’t quite new reader friendly.
Story: John Barber Art: Kei Zama
Story: 8.0 Art: 8.0 Overall: 8.0 Recommendation: Read
IDW Publishing provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review
Wednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!
Each week our contributors are choosing up to five books and why they’re choosing the books. In other words, this is what we’re looking forward to and think you should be taking a look!
Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.
Paul
Top Pick: Avengers #676 (Marvel) – Who or what is this Voyager? The statue of the founding members of the Avengers had a new addition to it at the end of Secret Wars, and now Voyager has ‘returned’, with everyone seeming to know her. I wasn’t a huge fan of this when it was done with the Sentry, so this type of ‘introduction’ did make my eyes roll. BUT, I am intrigued in this story; what happened to the Earth? Who moved it and why? And I just love seeing all the various Avengers assembled (LOVED seeing Lightning, formally Living Lightning, again).
All-New Wolverine #29 (Marvel) – I’m loving this ‘Orphans of X’ storyline. It is a scary thought to think of all the people who have been effected by battles involving the X-Men, but even scarier to see them come together so organized to take them out.
Champions #16 (Marvel) – I am just in love with this title, as anyone who has read my reviews can tell. I am partial to the original line up but I am very excited at the prospect of a new member or members joining their ranks. The team has met up with some interesting teen heroes on their past adventures, so I am looking forward to seeing who will step up to the challenge. I just hope this isn’t one of those “interview the newbies but by the end realize we’re fine as we are” issues. I will not be pleased.
Generation X #86 (Marvel) – Yes, I am a glutton for punishment for still reading this book. I just can’t let go of my Gen X’ers and this issue promises the return of an original member. That is really the only reason this title is on my list.
X-Men Gold #20 (Marvel) – I love it when the X-Men go on space adventures, and this latest story has been pretty good. I’m really happy to see lesser used members like Ink and Armor being part of this team, as it makes for a different dynamic. Unfortunately, our team is now stranded on a unknown planet and the solicit promises a big ‘status quo’ altering event at the end of the issue. I’ll definitely be reading to see what happens.
Brett
Top Pick: Days of Hate #1 (Image Comics) – I’ve read this first issue and hours later I’m still reflecting on it. A hell of a start. It’s the future and things have continued to go in the same direction it’s going now. Hate crimes are rampant and there’s a hint about another Civil War. This is a dystopian future that’s all too real.
Fence #3 (BOOM! Studios) – One of the best new series out last year. The comic is about students at an academy in a fencing club. A fantastic mix of sports manga with a western sense.
James Bond: The Body #1 (Dynamite Entertainment) – Every bruise and scar on James Bond’s body has a story. That concept has me intrigued as to how it’ll translate into a come series. Lots of potential with this one.
Strangers in Paradise XXV #1 (Abstract Studios) – Celebrating 25 years with a brand new series. America’s favorite couple is back!
Transformers: Optimus Prime #15 (IDW Publishing) – Onyx Prime is back!
Shay
Harley Quinn #35 (DC Comics) – Frank Tieri has a good track record writing female characters. Looking forward to seeing what he does with Harley post the Palmiotti/Conner run.
America #11 (Marvel) – The start of the “Midas Wars” and America protecting her homes.
Transformers: Optimus Prime #15
John Barber (w) • Kei Zama (a & c)
“THE FALLING, PART 1!” Darkness falls over Cybertron as the legendary Onyx Prime returns. What does this mean for Optimus Prime—and the Earth? Windblade defends an already tense planet against a secret that could shatter Cybertron forever.
FC • 32 pages • $3.99
Wednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!
Each week our contributors are choosing up to five books and why they’re choosing the books. In other words, this is what we’re looking forward to and think you should be taking a look!
Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.
30 Days of Night #1 (IDW Publishing) – A reimagining of the classic horror series.
Assassinistas #1 (IDW Publishing) – Mom’s an assassin who spent her sons’ tuition on new guns. Guess the son needs to get a job helping mom! Quirky concept, sounds like a lot of fun.
Backways #1 (AfterShock) – Writer Justin Jordan does Harry Potter… which is intriguing.
Catalyst Prime: Accell Vol. 2 #2 (Lion Forge Comics) – Lion Forge continues to entertain and their speedster is full of excitement and energy.
Catalyst Prime: Summit #1 (Lion Forge Comics) – A new entry in Lion Forge’s Catalyst Prime universe. Any new release, we’re intrigued and must check it out.
Curse Words: Holiday Special (Image Comics) – Have you been reading Curse Words? If not, you’re missing out.
Dark Ark #4 (AfterShock) – A new take on Noah’s ark, but this is the other arc, with all of the monsters. The last issue pivoted the series and we’re excited to see what’s next.
Dark Nights: Metal #4 (DC Comics) – Holy crap, holy crap, holy crap.
Fence #2 (BOOM! Studios) – The first issue was amazing. The series is a western take on sports manga. It’s so good!
Hellboy: Krampusnacht #1 (Dark Horse) – Hellboy does Christmas. Nuff said.
Marvel Two-In-One #1 (Marvel) – If you’ve never read an issue of this classic series, it’s a lot of fun. Here’s hoping this new one captures that of the original.
Rom & the Micronauts #1 (IDW Publishing) – Two properties coming together. We’re intrigued.
Sink #3 (ComixTribe) – Maybe the most disturbing comic series of the year?
Star Wars: Doctor Aphra #15 (Marvel) – If you don’t know Aphra, you’re missing out. Think Indiana Jones but in Star Wars.
Star Wars: Poe Dameron #22 (Marvel) – Filling in the gaps of the Star Wars universe.
Tales of Suspense #100 (Marvel) – Another classic Marvel title returns! This one’s exploring the “death” of the Black Widow.
Transformers: Optimus Prime #14 (IDW Publishing) – Optimus vs. Dinobots.
Transformers: Till All Are One Annual 2017 (IDW Publishing) – Wrapping up this series, one that’s been full of political intrigue and giant robots.
Quantum and Woody (2017) #1 (Valiant Entertainment) – If you’ve never read Quantum and Wody, you’re missing out. A new series that’ll get you to laugh.
X-Men: Grand Design #1 (Marvel) – Ed Piskor takes on the X-Men.
Transformers: Optimus Prime #14
John Barber (w) • Livio Ramondelli (a) • Kei Zama (c)
On Cybertron, Optimus Prime battles the Dinobots over the first new Cybertronian life to emerge in four million years! But does he stand a chance when the Dinobots’ newest member is two miles tall and eats cities?
FC • 32 pages • $3.99
Wednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!
Each week our contributors are choosing up to five books and why they’re choosing the books. In other words, this is what we’re looking forward to and think you should be taking a look!
Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.
Action Comics #992 (DC Comics) – With “The Oz Effect” over, we’re intrigued to see where this series goes as that story attacked the very hope Superman is built on.
The Apocalypse Girl #1 (Amigo Comics) – Metis is 16, has all these problems and more. Because, on top of that, the End of the World happened and she has to cope with bloodthirsty demons and a 4,000-years old, critical, undead mom! This just sounds awesome.
Betty and Veronica: Vixens #1 (Archie Comics) – We’ve read it, it’s awesome. Check out our early review.
The Demon: Hell is Earth #1 (DC Comics) – Out! Out! Our favorite Demon is back in a new limited series. The first issue is intriguing and should be fun for long time fans of the character.
Detective Comics #969 (DC Comics) – Kicking off “Fall of the Batmen.” That title alone has us taking notice.
Doomsday Clock #1 (DC Comics) – We’ve already posted multiple reviews, but this is THE comic of the week. After lots of build up the world of Watchmen and DC collide.
Doppleganger #1 (Alterna Comics) – Dennis’ grip on reality fully unravels when an evil version of himself begins to torment him. Alterna has been doing an awesome job with their newsprint line of comics and this is a brand new one to check out. Just $1.50 people!
Eleanor & the Egret #5 (AfterShock) – Amazing art and beyond adorable story. If you’re not reading this series, you’re missing out.
Gregory Suicide (Dark Horse) – A graphic novel taking on clones and a story that spirals in paranoia. A solid read with some really cool art.
Imaginary Fiends #1 (DC Comics/Vertigo) – Imaginary friends that also want you to kill. The procedural meets… well, we’re not quite sure. First issue is a great set up in what will be an interesting twist on the police genre.
Long Lost #1 (Scout Comics) – Stranger Things meets Ghost World in Long Lost, the haunting story of two estranged sisters who find themselves drawn back to their small southern hometown to unlock the disturbing mysteries that are hidden there, with all roads leading back to their enigmatic, secretive mother
Motor Girl #10 (Abstract Studios) – The final issue of the series. We’re sad already.
Rugrats #2 (BOOM! Studios/KaBOOM!) – We loved the cartoon. We loved the first issue. We’re getting our Rugrats fix, how about you? A comic that’s great for kids and their parents looking for nostalgia.
Sherlock Frankenstein & the Legion of Evil #2 (Dark Horse) – The world of Black Hammer continues to expand in this series. Jeff Lemire people!!!
Silver Sable and the Wild Pack #36 (Marvel) – 90s nostalgia, nuff said.
Star Wars #39 (Marvel) – If you’re not reading Marvel’s Star Wars comics you’re missing out on great action and a fantastic extension of the world. If you’re a fan of the movies and not reading these, you’re really missing out.
Transformers: Optimus Prime #13 (IDW Publishing) – Post “First Strike” Optimus heads into the Cybertronian wilderness to search for the first new life in four million years. These types of stories tend to really stand out.
Void Trip #1 (Image Comics) – The story of Ana and Gabe, the last two humans left alive in the galaxy. They’re low on fuel, they’re low on food, and they’re low on psychedelic space froot, but they’re still determined to make it to the promised land: hippy-paradise, super-planet Euphoria.
WWE #11 (BOOM! Studios) – If you’re a fan of wrestling, these comics are a must.
X-O Manowar #9 (Valiant Entertainment) – One of the best series out there today.
Transformers: Optimus Prime #13
John Barber (w) • Livio Ramondelli (a) • Kei Zama (c)
As the consequences of the First Strike event reverberate, Optimus Prime ventures into the wilderness of Cybertron to search for the first new Cybertronian life to emerge in four million years!
FC • 32 pages • $3.99
Transformers: Optimus Prime #12
John Barber (w) • Kei Zama (a & c)
With Optimus Prime trapped on Cybertron, the Autobots track down their missing friend, Jazz—and find themselves under fire from humans armed with Cybertronian weapons!
FC • 32 pages • $3.99
