Transformers Cybertron Review

Transformers Cybertron is the third series in the Unicron Trilogy that was co produced by both Takara and Hasbro. Or at least that was the plan but Takara didn't follow through with the idea and so Transformers Cybertron was made into its own thing which was a good move in my opinion. I often fancy myself as having a love hate relationship with Transformers so I'm not that hardcore or into this franchise but I do admit I do enjoy it from time to time. 

Transformers Cybertron came out a few years before the first Michael Bay Transformers movie and you will no doubt see similarities to the movies Optimus Prime design to this one. But I'll get to those details later.

Also known as Transformers Galaxy Force in japan, Transformers Cybertron is the third series of the Unicron Trilogy. It's basically three Transformers series that took place after the destruction of Unicron in the original Transformers 80's cartoons but in another universe but has enough of the G1 feel to probably get even fans of the original series happy.

On a story perspective Transformers Cybertron in my opinion is the beet of the Unicron three. The over arching story arc is more fleshed out than the linear plot that was Armada and Energon. Transformers Cybertron plot wise is not perfect but its the closes they got to Beast Wars with allies changing sides and villains' become heroes. And yes since this has a japanese version I'll label this also as an anime.

The character development is impressive considering this is about transforming robots and the human allies aren't just there for fun either but actually contribute to the story. This series probably has the most competent Starscream since G1 cartoons. Not to mention the humans aren't just background characters like what they are during most G1 episodes but are at times integral to the plot. Definitely a step up from how they are portrayed in the Transformers series before.

Seeing Optimus with a mouth instead of his usual mouthpiece did took a while of getting used to although he has a Super Mode where a face plate covers it and he turns into the Prime we all know and love. I wouldn't be surprised if the first Transformers movie two years after this series was shown took pointers from this. 

Transformers Cybertron is japanese influenced so there are a lot of funny anime moments sprinkled here and there. Specially scenes between Lori and Wingsaber, Just the typical anime iconography, including the sweat drop and the single feisty fang and characters calling out the name of their attack before doing said move. 

The bgm that plays during every transformation sequence is catchy and fits well with the series. Since this is made by both Takara and Hasbro there's a Japanese opening for this as well  which is mostly japanese lyrics and some english lines thrown in which has become a staple for most anime opening these days.

Here's the japanese opening Transformers Galaxy Force just for comparison.

Despite being the third in the trilogy Transformers Cybertron is a standalone series so folks don't need to watch Transformers Armada and Energon to enjoy this one. Anyone can easily dive in to this. For some this is their so called introduction to the franchise. The english dub does try to reference the first two series in one way or another but not enough to be confusing.

The mix of cgi and cartoon drawings works well for the series and the action is a lot better compared to both Energon and Armada which are also cgi rendered. The new designs of the Transformers feels a mix of G1 version with the mecha designs of Japan which is a good mix in this case. Also the transformation sequences looks great.

Overall Transformers Cybertron is a decent Transformers spin off much like Beast Wars Transformers. It has enough G1 feels with a bunch Japanese flair to give fans of anime and Transformers fans something they could enjoy. If your fans of Beast Wars and of Transformers in general you might want to give this series a try.