Those growing up in the 80s remember The Transformers as the popular cartoon show while the current generation’s first exposure to the characters was through Michael Bay’s explosive live-action films. However these iconic characters origins long predating the original animated show.

In 1980 a Japanese toy line by the name of Diaclone was launched by Takara Toys. It consisted of robots that transformed vehicles piloted by mini figures from the Microman line. (If you trace the spin-off history of Microman, you end up at Hasbro’s G.I. Joe toyline.) In 1982, Takara decided to grow the two lines and added robots that transformed into cars, planes and even dinosaurs. In 1983 Hasbro spotted the lines of transformable robots at the Tokyo Toy Fair and ended up partnering with Takara and rebranding the two into a single line, creating Transformers.

Prowlers
by DJaimon

optimus prime x rockwell
by m7781

Hasbro had the toys, but they needed a story and character to go along with the toys that would appeal to kids. They turned to Marvel Comics who’d helped them develop the backstory and characters for the G.I. Joe line. The challenge fell on Marvel editor-in-chief Jim Shooter and editor Dennis O'Neil to craft an entire universe for the newly created Transformers. Another Marvel editor, Bob Budiansky was brought on to create the names and profiles for the individual characters. Budiansky’s success with the Transformers’ backgrounds led to his being hired as a writer for the Transformers comic.

TFA Brawn
by Billybosskeen

The new toy line, launched in 1984 along with the animated T.V. show, was well-received and Hasbro had a difficult time keeping up with toy demand. Unlike the live-action movies, the original Transformers featured cars from around the world. Before Bumblebee became a Chevy Camaro he was a Volkswagen Beetle and Jazz wasn’t a Pontiac Solstice, but a Porsche 935 Turbo. Other car makers featured included Land Rover, Datsun, Lamborghini, and Mitsubishi.

Rumor has it that the next installment of the live-action franchise, Transformers 5, will release in 2017 without Michael Bay directing - to the dismay of some. Climbing Into the director’s chair may be Jonathan Liebesman from 2014’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Can’t wait that long? Well you can always create your own Transformers like this father and son duo did. Or you can sit back and enjoy the Autobot-approved fan art gallery we’ve assembled. Fan art, roll out!