Nightstrike's Reviews: Transformers Exodus (1/3)

As some of you may know, I've always been a huge fan of Transformers. As in "closeted otaku." Often, even to my friends, a lot of my ramblings don't make sense.

"Multiple continuities?"

"Armada? Prime? Cyberverse? 'Bayformers?' "

"What do you mean, Nightstrike-sama?"

And as usual, I explain repeatedly. Sometimes I think they do it on purpose.

Transformers started off as an ongoing series, but underwent multiple reboots, with no attempt to tie storylines together. As a result, the "multiverse" became a thing. While RID2015, TFP, RB, WFC, and the novels I have are generally grouped together as the 'Aligned' continuity, though if that's the case, then there are plenty of continuity errors to go around the world 10 times. I personally consider the novels by Alex Irvine as part of the IDW Publishing continuity, but even then, there are notable differences. As they are, though, they act as a general explanation for what went on prior to the G1 storyline. But enough of that, let's get to the actual review!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Warning: Extremely Spoiler-Heavy Ahead!~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Exodus, the first installment in the series, focuses on the beginning relationship between a data-clerk by the name Orion Pax and a gladiator, who would come to bear the name Megatronus. Their society is restrictive in nature, utilizing the caste system to "promote peace." As Megatron (as he's eventaully called) put it, "Peace Through Tyranny." Both Orion Pax and Megatron agreed on change being necessary, but they disagreed on methods. Orion Pax believed in appealing to the hearts and minds of others, while Megatron believed in actions speaking louder than words. Unfourtunately, Megatron's quest for freedom turned into a quest for power. Orion Pax appealed to the High Council and he was made Optimus Prime. Megatron, enraged, essentially declares war. The novel mainly focuses on classic characters, but does insert some new characters, as well as homages to original characters. Skywarp and Thundercracker walk alongside Lugnut and Barricade, while Frenzy and Ratbat can be seen with the likes of Drixco and Catalycon.

While not perfect, this book comes pretty darn close as a prequel to the popular franchise, and even with a few minor forgivable errors, it still is a favorite of mine.

Overall Rating: 4.5/5