Image Comics reviews 2/12/25 – Transformers #17, Geiger #11

Transformers #17

Transformers #17 delivers yet again in one of the best comics around. My favorite switches between the latest release from Image’s Ghost Machine or Energon Universe titles, but it’s some combination of Transformers, Geiger, G.I. Joe, Void Rivals, Redcoat, Rook: Exodus. This week the spotlight shifts to Transformers #17 simply due to the overwhelming onslaught of activity from the over-the-top action sequences, the smaller subplots and the compelling character beats.

The Decepticon civil war pitting the forces led by Soundwave and Starscream is showing no signs of stopping. Or concern about any innocent bystanders caught in the fray. That’s probably a good thing for Optimus Prime and his smaller Autobot squad of Jazz, Wheeljack and Trailbreaker. They don’t have to battle against Devastator or Bruticus, the combiners on either side and can just focus on saving the humans in the battlefield. Wheeljack is rightfully concerned after Optimus randomly blew up the dam…using the cannon that’s attached to the lone arm to replace his destroyed one — that of the Decepticons true leader, Megatron.

Megatron doesn’t appear in this issue, but the Starscream/Soundwave is enough to keep Transformers #17 rolling.

Elsewhere, Arcee and Beachcomber track down Ultra Magnus. Writer Daniel Warren Johnson really derailed expectations when Ultra Magnus arrived. It seemed like this huge, powerful soldier would be exactly who was needed to turn the tide, but he’s suffering from major PTSD after his treatment at the hands of Shockwave. Magnus’ recovery from his trauma might not be a sudden shift but it’s definitely the kind of long-term storytelling that makes this series so impressive.

Transformers #17 also adds another brewing subplot as Thundercracker finds his brother, Skywarp, at The Ark. Does this make him more committed to the Decepticon cause or simply drive him to escape the conflict like Beachcomber?

This series hasn’t been going on for even two years yet, but Johnson is showing the toll all of this fighting and conflict has had on all the Transformers.

Back on Cybertron, Elita-1 and Cliffjumper lead a bold attack on a Decepticon outpost for the chance to use a spark to create another Transformer. This one is an original creation of Johnson and while they just make one panel appearance this looks like a fun addition to the series and one a certain contingent of the Transformers fanbase will eagerly await seeing get made into an action figure.

Is it possible for Jorge Corona’s artwork to be underappreciated? Corona is cranking out some fantastic visuals with so much happening in every panel. Yet they never look cluttered or crowded. Both factions convey plenty of emotions, but the battle weary Autobots wear the anguish of this continued war showing so much personality. Colorist Mike Spicer makes the artwork pop even more with a vibrant color palette while letterer Rus Wooton infuses so much fun to the visuals with prominent sound effect fonts.

Transformers #17 is a terrific installment of this incredible series opening up so many more possibilities for the story and this series. The fun is in absolutely no danger of ending anytime soon.

Rating: 10 out of 10

Photo Credit: Image Comics

Check out Transformers Vol. 3: Combiner Chaos over at Amazon.

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