TRANSFORMERS #20 (IMAGE COMICS/SKYBOUND)

The feared leader of the Decepticons has returned. Megatron has emerged during a civil war between Starscream and Soundwave. Unifying the factions can only spell certain doom for Earth. Optimus Prime must find a way too rally his troops before it’s too late. The fate of the Energon Universe is in his hands!

TRANSFORMERS #20 by Daniel Warren Johnson, Jorge Corona, Mike Spicer & Rus Wooton raises the stakes in its’ latest chapter.

Let’s not wait any longer and dive into the drama!

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

If there was ever any doubt of Megatron’s evil, this issue silences that. Right from the start, Johnson brings out the darkness. His manner of dealing with Astrotrain strikes a chord. Readers watch as the slow dismantling reclaims his status as the leader. It is a blunt and cruel moment which creates terrifying launching point.

In contrast, Prime’s acceptance of the moment ushers in a few changes. The conversation with Spike is heartfelt and carries weight. Prime breaking down the internal struggles he has exposes doubt. Spike counters with driving home some optimism. This leads to a few popular debuts. Even with these great appearances, everything takes a back seat to Megatron. The closing act brings a few elements full circle. It leaves events with a haunting statement. There is no escaping what is being built here.

Corona & Spicer open up with a quick rush of action. Astrotrain’s ill-fated attack begins with a loud near half-page image. The following panels bring the excitement. A half page starts Megatron’s response. Their fight is as brutal as one might think. It closes with a close-up of Megatron, poised for his next move.

The art dips into a few other side-plots before going to Prime’s time. A fantastic near full page reveals the latest with Ultra Magnus. The Cybertron moments hit their marks before passing the spotlight back to Earth. Prime’s counter moves cover a few emotions. The banter with Spike closes with a superb glance at a sunset. Readers watch as some notable Autobots crash the scene via near full page image. There are some more great images before Megatron takes back attention. Readers watch as the closing sequence is vicious and unforgiving. Once all the smoke clears, the final panel drives home a big exclamation point that Megatron is back! Incredible work overall with the art.

OVERALL GRADE: 9.4

Megatron’s revenge tour begins with painful lessons of respect. Johnson’s writing unleashes the pure evil of the Decepticons. Corona and Spicer takes readers on a ride with the artwork. The last page brings into focus where events are going. Is the Energon Universe ready for what’s been unleashed?

Let me know in the comments below your thoughts on Transformers #20. Thanks for reading.