Regeneration One is back with more Transformers goodness. Tired of the movie re-designs and crude humor? Don’t like the newest designs for the characters? Regeneration One is a love letter to the classic Marvel days. It’s a story fans of the G1 show will especially enjoy. So far we’ve had the realization that Mgatron has taken over earth, Starscream is a mindless slave, Optimus Prime may supposedly die in battle with Megatron, Hot Rod is left in charge, and Soundwave’s causing trouble. While we don’t get the big things yet in this issue, it’s still packed with plenty of Transforming action.

Here’s the official description from IDW:

LAST STAND!

Things go from bad to worse as MEGATRON tightens his remorseless grip on planet Earth. Can the Wreckers save Kup? Can they reach the Ark in time? The odds have never been more stacked against them. But you know what they say: ‘when all hope is gone…’ And what exactly is up with Starscream?

Ah, reading Megatron’s crazy and evil dialogue never gets old. The true highlight is actually Starscream who gets a pretty interesting role with an unexpected ending. Not too much happens in this issue, it’s basically a setup for things next month. Here Hotshot finds out what Soundwave is after, the Wreckers make an assault, and near the end Optimus enters the fray. So there’s plenty of action throughout. Spike is one of those love him or hate him characters. One might like him for his powers and gruffness, while another may not like that he’s starting to sound like a jerk. So love him or hate him, it’s up to you fellow reader.

Andrew Wildman’s art doesn’t get old. (Though after watching Transformers Prime it’s a little strange to see a much skinnier Megatron.) The art as I stated before is the classic comics brought back to life. The main cover is pretty dramatic, showing Hot Rod over a hellish version of Cybertron. The other covers are nice homages to the classic comics. Sadly Grimlock doesn’t make an appearance, he’s been missing since Issue #82. Hopefully next issue we’ll find out what happened to him and see more of Soundwave since he’s been barely doing anything these last few issues.

Overall, another solid installment of Regeneration One. While this is mainly a setup issue for the more exciting things to come, it’s still fun. (With no annoying teens in sight!) Transformers fans should be with this story, and if they’re not, they’d best jump in.

4/5