As it builds up to the 100th issue, any title would feel a need to put on a show. Transformers: Regeneration One #98 builds on the last few issues, but is it a case of style over substance, or is this an issue well worth picking up?

The official description from IDW:

INVASION! And it’s the Autobots doing the invading! RODIMUS PRIME takes action, leading an armada into the heart of JHIAXUS’ forces—but is he playing straight into the villain’s hands? Plus, FORTRESS MAXIMUS re-enters the fray, but on whose side? Oh, and STARSCREAM’s past comes back to haunt him… big time!

This issue opens up strong and, for the most part, runs with it. The sense of scale is impressive here, but it feels natural – after plenty of build up, the larger moments here make perfect sense within the stories framework. These are not explosions for explosions sake. However, around all of this action, there are a few minor subplots and other characters pushing into the foreground. While many readers will like this, some may find it a little confusing.

In terms of writing, it’s hard to come up with any major faults. Simon Furman manages to capture the style of older comic books, while offering an idea mature and grand enough to meet modern expectations. The dialogue may not be overtly witty, but it has that punchy attitude that suits the story at hand – this is not the issue to get bogged down in long discussions for too long and the writing knows it.

Visually, Regeneration One #98 is as impressive as ever. Guido Guidi offers plenty of detail, both in foreground and background, that really shows through on the larger panels. It makes the big battles seem big and makes everything look all the more impressive. Add in the detailed and vibrant colors from John-Paul Bove and this issue is a joy to simply look at.

While it may be a little complex in areas, there is no arguing this issue is an easy issue to read. It might not make too much sense on its own, but Regeneration One caters to the long time Transformers fans and is exactly where an issue such as this belongs.

4/5