Transformers

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==Transformers ==

Transformers are a line of toys produced by Hasbro and Takara Tomy, which have been the basis for a popular media franchise that includes animated television series, comic books, video games, and feature films. The franchise centers around two factions of sentient, transforming robots: the heroic Autobots and the evil Decepticons. These robots can transform into various forms, such as vehicles, animals, and other objects.

History

The Transformers toy line was first launched in 1984, following the success of the Microman and Diaclone toy lines in Japan. The toys were rebranded and repackaged for the North American market, with new names and backstories created by Marvel Comics writers Bob Budiansky and Jim Shooter. The accompanying animated series, The Transformers, debuted in the same year and quickly became a cultural phenomenon.

Main Characters

• Optimus Prime: The noble leader of the Autobots, who transforms into a semi-truck.
• Megatron: The ruthless leader of the Decepticons, who transforms into various forms, including a gun and a tank.
• Bumblebee: A small, yellow Autobot scout who transforms into a Volkswagen Beetle or a Chevrolet Camaro in different iterations.
• Starscream: A treacherous Decepticon who transforms into a fighter jet.

Media Adaptations

Animated Series

The original animated series, The Transformers, ran from 1984 to 1987. It was followed by several other series, including Transformers: Beast Wars, Transformers: Armada, Transformers: Cybertron, and Transformers: Prime. Each series introduced new characters and storylines, expanding the Transformers universe.

Films

The Transformers franchise has also been adapted into a series of live-action films directed by Michael Bay. The first film, Transformers, was released in 2007 and was followed by several sequels, including Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, Transformers: Dark of the Moon, Transformers: Age of Extinction, and Transformers: The Last Knight. A spin-off film, Bumblebee, was released in 2018.

Comics

Transformers comics have been published by several companies, including Marvel Comics, Dreamwave Productions, and IDW Publishing. These comics have explored various aspects of the Transformers universe, including origin stories, alternate timelines, and crossovers with other franchises.

Video Games

The Transformers franchise has inspired numerous video games, ranging from action-adventure games to role-playing games. Notable titles include Transformers: War for Cybertron, Transformers: Fall of Cybertron, and Transformers: Devastation.

Cultural Impact

Transformers have become a significant part of popular culture, influencing various forms of media and entertainment. The franchise has a dedicated fan base and has inspired numerous fan conventions, such as BotCon and TFcon.

See Also

• List of Transformers characters
• Transformers: Generation 1
• Transformers: Animated
• Transformers: Robots in Disguise
• Transformers: War for Cybertron Trilogy