Transformers ’84 Secret and Lies #3 kicks off with high stakes at play. Familiar characters such as Ultra Magnus and Impactor are featured, both of whom never appear in the US comics at all.
This third issue, one might say is a love letter to many character whom never had an opportunity in the United States, and were mainstays in the UK comics run. While some may be turned off at the introductions of characters not considered mainstream, I find this is an intriguing way of spotlighting characters which may garner interest in more stories featuring the UK side of the comics.
Of important note, Ultra Magnus, a key character in the animated Transformers feature-length film in 1986, does not appear at all except for Issue #43 featuring an alternate timeline. He then reappears as a main character in the sequel series Regeneration One. Magnus was a main character in the original run of Transformers comics in the UK, yet for someone so prominent in the movie, and in the third and fourth seasons of the Transformers cartoon, one would have thought it strange not to see him featured.
Non-spoiler: exclusive to the Japanese toy market and original manga, is Cybertron/Autobot character Star Saber who had never appeared in any mainstream form, until IDW brought in the character during the previous comic series of More than Meets the Eye, issue #18.
But of course, thanks to Yahoo Japan Auctions, I own the toy. Because of course I do.
A lot happens and it is important to pay attention to details, something Simon Furman is very good with. Spotlighting these details is the rise to power of three prominent Decepticon figures. Straxus, Scorponok, and Thunderwing, all of whom assume command of the Decepticon army at various points in the original series. While some may feel these are filler stories, it provides insight into how characters were different from their toy or cartoon counterparts. Some characters were created by the Furman/Budiansky team and were unique to the Marvel US and UK comics. Thunderwing, never had an appearance in the cartoon, so developing his character was up to Furman.
The action heats up as a fierce Grimlock barrels through opposition, while the beloved repainted seekers known as the Coneheads get a backstory as well. I’ve enjoyed the final pages of each book, showing how Furman was inspired to give some characters additional tale while also linking to the story featured in either the US or UK issues.
The final issue dropped on October 28th, when the backstory of the Marvel comics reaches its epic conclusion! The battle will be over… finished!
What can I say, I enjoy using Furmanisms. It’s real. Look it up on TFwiki.
