Top 10 Transformers Characters

#10: Shockwave

Someone has to be the brains for the Decepticons, and no one fits the bill better than Shockwave. Easily recognized by his one glowing eye and laser cannon arm, Shockwave has had multiple distinct portrayals over the years. One day, he could be one of Megatron’s most loyal minions. Another day, he’s his biggest rival among the Cons. Some days, he’s a twisted mad scientist. Others, he’s Cybertron’s guardian, doing what he can to aid the planet. But one thing is certain: Shockwave’s true loyalties lie with pure, cold logic. The only thing scarier than him is his twisted experiments, and it would be highly logical of you to steer clear of them.

#9: Arcee

For the longest time, female Cybertronians were something of a myth. This was thankfully corrected over the years as more were introduced, and one of the most prominent is Arcee. Don’t underestimate her, she’s more than just a pretty face. She has faced plenty of trauma throughout her life, especially in “Prime” or the comics. Yet, she remains a fierce and quick-witted warrior who could kick your butt from here to Iacon. While other female transformers have taken the spotlight later on, it was Arcee that helped put them on the map, giving the franchise some much-needed representation. Let us know in the comments which color you prefer for Arcee – pink or blue.

#8: Hot Rod, A.K.A Rodimus Prime

First introduced in the 1986 movie, Hot Rod was a hotheaded youngster with ambitions of becoming a hero. Unfortunately, he got his wish when Optimus Prime was fatally wounded during the battle with the Decepticons. Hot Rod ended up taking his place as leader of the Autobots, being upgraded into Rodimus Prime. He constantly battled with his own self-doubt at trying to live up to Optimus’ legacy -the audience’s reaction to their hero being killed didn’t help. Regardless of where you stand, he’s an essential part of the series’ history and has made several comebacks throughout the media -thankfully without accidentally getting Prime killed.

#7: Jazz

Of all the Autobots, few are as cool as Jazz. Introduced as Optimus’ right-hand bot, this smooth-talking lieutenant does everything with style. From his slang-filled lingo to his sunglasses-like visor, to how quickly he adapts to and embraces Earth culture, especially the music. He even manages to turn music into a powerful weapon on the battlefield. Because someone has to keep a cool head on the Autobots’ team, Jazz might occasionally have to act as a peacemaker when things get heated. His swagger and all-around fun personality made him one of the most popular Autobot characters… which is why his getting killed off in the first live-action movie feels like a crime. What the hell, Michael Bay?

#6: Grimlock

Optimus Prime may be our hero, but everyone knows that Grimlock is the one true king. As leader of the Dinobots, Grimlock is all brawn, but barely any brains. He’s a proud, arrogant warrior who prefers to play by his own rules rather than follow anyone he deems weaker than him. Depending on the portrayal, Grimlock can be seen as a more intelligent warrior who becomes a feral bruiser when in his T. rex mode. Whether he’s a brooding bad boy or a cocky caveman, one thing is certain – Grimlock is a bot that demands respect, and can easily rip apart anyone who doesn’t give him such.

#5: Soundwave

Arguably the most iconic of the Decepticons, Soundwave serves as Megatron’s sneakiest spy. Best known for his low, electronic voice and his cassette player form, Soundwave is armed with a nearly endless army of minions to aid him on his reconnaissance missions. He has also demonstrated the ability to control sound itself and even scan electrical impulses to read minds. Soundwave is usually one of Megatron’s most loyal members, but is not above going against his master for the greater good. Above all else, he’s a master at gathering intelligence to ensure that the Cons are always three steps ahead of the Autobots. As he himself always says, “Soundwave superior, Autobots inferior.”

#4: Bumblebee

Autobots come and go, but Bumblebee remains one of the most consistent faces of the brand. He could be the young, energetic little chatterbox, or the muscle car whose voice box was tragically stolen from him during the War. Either way, Bumblebee is one of the most loyal and bravest Autobots in the galaxy. His youthful energy usually has him connecting with the human characters better than his fellow Bots, which, in turn, helps audiences connect with him more. Seriously, who wouldn’t want to be best buds with this scrappy little bug? He still has plenty of room to grow, and his connection to the viewers ensures that Bumblebee is a staple of the whole franchise.

#3: Starscream

There always has to be that one co-worker who tries to claw his way to the top by any means necessary. Starscream fits the role like a glove, always scheming to overthrow Megatron as leader of the Decepticons. Unfortunately for him, his arrogance and cowardice thwart his attempts every time, and he’s left begging on his knees for his Master’s forgiveness before the cycle continues all over again. His scheming ways and hilarious karma made him popular with the fans, and future portrayals would take his classic turncoat character into new directions. Whether they made him even more manipulative and charming, or showed his sympathetic side… as if we didn’t feel sorry for him already.

#2: Megatron

Unquestionably the baddest bot on all of Cybertron, Megatron leads the Decepticons with an iron fist and a fusion cannon. There is no room in his spark for mercy, and nothing matters except feeding his hunger for conquest and extinguishing the Autobots. There may have been once a time when he’d try to fight the corruption in Cybertron’s justice system, but those days have long since passed, and Megatron has embraced his role as a mad tyrant determined to snuff out anyone who stands in his way. He’s had a plethora of different transformations over the years, but we’ll never forget the first time we saw him morph into a handgun.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Prowl

The Muse for the Autobots’ Symbol, with Arguably the Most Gruesome Death

Ratchet

The Autobots’ Cranky-But-Reliable Field Medic

Omega Supreme

One of the Omega Sentinels, & the Autobots’ Ultimate Secret Weapon

Blitzwing

Three Times the Transformations, Three Times the Terror

Ironhide

The Gruff & Tough War Veteran Who Lets His Actions Do All the Talking

#1: Optimus Prime

How could we not include the iconic hero of both Earth and Cybertron? Once the young, inquisitive Orion Pax, he was gifted the Matrix of Leadership and became the leader of the Autobots, Optimus Prime. Optimus is a hero through and through – brave, compassionate, wise, and willing to sacrifice himself for the freedom of all sentient life. His death in the original animated movie heavily affected countless viewers because of the impact he left -thankfully, he never really stays dead for long. Even when he’s portrayed as young and inexperienced, he carries the spark of a champion of truth and justice, securing his place as an icon of pop culture history. Immortalized by the late, great Peter Cullen, Optimus Prime will forever be a legend. Till all are one.

Who was your favorite transformer? Roll out in the comments and let us know.