Hasbro recently announced a new animated series that will bring fresh stories to both the Transformers and G.I. Joe universes. Inspired by the Energon Universe created by Robert Kirkman and other comic creators, the show offers a unique take on characters from G.I. Joe, Cobra, and the world of Transformers. With Paramount also planning a live-action movie that combines these two franchises, this animated series could be the best new content for fans of both worlds in a long time.
The Energon Universe started quietly with the comic Void Rivals, which surprisingly introduced a Transformer character. Since then, both the Transformers and G.I. Joe have launched several series centered around their iconic characters. G.I. Joe’s stories have reimagined classic figures like Duke and Cobra Commander, while the Transformers series has largely focused on expanding the lore of the Autobots and Decepticons. These stories are geared towards a more mature audience and benefit from strong writing and detailed worldbuilding, making them well-suited for animation.
Explaining The Energon Universe
What makes the Energon Universe so compelling isn’t just its well-developed characters, but how seamlessly it combines the Transformers and G.I. Joe worlds. Instead of jumping straight into a crossover, the universe gradually weaves elements of both franchises together. For instance, Duke’s story starts with a surprising run-in with Starscream, which leaves the soldier struggling with PTSD. Similarly, Megatron was first held captive by Cobra-La, a nation known for its snake-themed people and the origin of Cobra Commander. This approach cleverly kept Megatron out of the initial Transformers storylines while building anticipation for the villain’s eventual grand entrance.
The Energon Universe builds on the best parts of both Transformers and G.I. Joe with compelling artwork and well-developed characters. Though the characters are reimagined, their core traits remain true to each series. If the upcoming animated series follows this approach, it’s likely to be a hit. Given Robert Kirkman’s experience with mature storytelling, this crossover is definitely worth checking out, especially if you’re already enjoying the comics.
Kirkman Talks The Long-Awaited Crossover
I recently spoke with Robert Kirkman, the creator of the Energon Universe, and he gave me some insight into the possibility of a big crossover event. He explained that while they do have plans for a major confrontation down the line, they’re not rushing into it. He feels the industry overuses ‘event books,’ and when they happen too often, they lose their impact. He wants any potential crossover to be a truly massive, carefully planned story – something that would fundamentally change the Energon Universe and have lasting consequences for years to come. So, don’t hold your breath – it’s not going to happen quickly.
Although the cast hasn’t been officially announced, Robert Kirkman has collaborated with voice actor Peter Cullen before. Cullen, famous for voicing Optimus Prime, played the role of Thadeus in Kirkman’s series Invincible. Kirkman previously shared his admiration for Cullen, explaining that writing dialogue for Optimus Prime is especially enjoyable when he imagines Cullen delivering the lines. Working with Cullen on Invincible was a highlight for Kirkman, and he strives to capture the essence of characters like Optimus Prime, Megatron, and Soundwave by envisioning how Cullen and Frank Welker might perform the lines, aiming for a feel that aligns with the original cartoon. He’s also enjoying working with the character Bulkhead, who wasn’t part of the original ‘Generation One’ series, which adds a unique dynamic to the writing process.
What are your thoughts on the new animated Energon Universe? Share your opinions in the comments and discuss it with other fans in the ComicBook Forum!
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2025-10-28 23:10