Image Comics released issue 24 of the Transformers comic book last Wednesday, marking the conclusion of Daniel Warren Johnson’s creative run as writer. First released in November 2023, the series was the second comic in the Energon Universe line, created in collaboration with Hasbro as a shared continuity for Transformers and its sister franchise, G.I. Joe and their original series Void Rivals.
Johnson and his collaborators do not hold back from making his departure as a series writer feel truly epic. He and artist Jorge Corona get right into the action, imbuing every panel with so much detail, drawing all the little scuffs and scratches littered across the characters’ robotic bodies. Mike Spicer’s colors are just stunning, managing to be bright and eye-catching, staying true to the toyetic designs and highlighting Corona’s artwork, with Rus Wooton’s letters giving the action that extra “oomph.”
Since the first issue, Johnson has received praise for his ability to write fast and brutal action scenes as well as quiet, introspective moments of characterization, a staple of his other works.
The latest issue is a bit lacking in that department, due to the last issue serving as his run’s emotional climax. However, it would be unfair to say the issue is just non-stop action. Johnson wraps up the character arcs for two of the franchise mainstays, one in particular coming full-circle and delivering on issues of build-up with a truly gorgeous section of pages.
Issue 24 is a fantastic end to Johnson’s acclaimed time on the series. It’s great action and emotional storytelling that cements him as one of the greatest writers to ever pen a Transformers comic. If you are interested in reading this series, consider reading the run in its entirety.
Starting next month in issue 25, the series will be written by creator of the Walking Dead and head of the Energon Universe, Robert Kirkman, with the fan-favorite Dan Mora taking over as the main artist. Both Johnson and Corona will still contribute to the series via variant covers.
