Even the most casual Transformers' fan knows the name Optimus Prime, but one comic from IDW Publishing shows fans that none of those famous names last through the ages and that for a new generation of bots born after the Great War, there is only one name that stands the test of time.
The reveal is a true surprise, both for fans and for Rodimus Prime in this post-apocalyptic story about the final battle of the Transformers. IDW Publishing's Last Bot Standing is a four-issue comic series that coincides with the end of IDW’s ownership of the rights to the Transformers franchise. It tells the story of Rodimus Prime, AKA Hot Rod, who finds himself hiding on the world of Donnokt long after the end of the Great War between Autobots and Decepticons. The universe has been depleted of resources due to the endless war, and most of the fan-favorite and familiar names are long gone. In an all-but-dead galaxy, the final generation of Decepticons survive by consuming 'biological fuel,' and begin invading the planet where Hot Rod has spent long years hiding on low-power, and when he finally comes face to face with this younger generation, he is surprised to learn that none of them care about the conflict which, to them, is ancient history.
When Rodimus questions them about the past, these new Transformers don't even seem to know what a Prime is. "I get that a lot of time has passed,” he says."But what do you losers know? What about Optimus Prime? Grimlock? Thunderclash?" Upon brining up the name Thunderclash, the bots become excited with recognition, saying that "everyone knows him." This revelation may be surprising to a lot of fans, as Thunderclash is a little known generation 1 Autobot, but the truth is that he is deserving of praise, and it's not entirely surprising that his name has lived on through the ages. Transformers: Last Bot Standing is written by Nick Roche and drawn by E. J. Su.
Why Is Thunderclash the Most Famous Autobot?
Thunderclash was introduced as part of Hasbro's Turbomasters line, the last major toy release for G1 Transformers. He is able to transform into a RV trailer - similar to Optimus - as well as an artillery platform, making him a powerhouse ally for the Autobots. In the Fun Publications comic continuity, Thunderclash was originally a merchant who joined the Autobots after his ship was raided by Decepticons, and he single-handedly fought them off while saving his crew. In IDW’s continuity, Thunderclash made his first appearance in Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye #22, by James Roberts and James Raiz, and was given the Matrix of Leadership by Optimus when the Autobot leader went on sabbatical.
Thunderclash Actually Deserves His Transformers Fame
In any iteration, Thunderclash is usually portrayed as a powerful and tactically-minded leader and mentor. His team, the Turbomasters, are usually considered an elite military unit within the ranks of the Autobots and his opinions and skills were so valued that Optimus Prime considered him an equal. Even if Thunderclash is not a name readily known to casual fans, it's little wonder that his memory has become legendary among future generations of Cybertronians. Rodimus may have been surprised by the choice, but he really shouldn't have been. After all, as both an inspiring leader and fierce warrior, Transformers' Thunderclash had the power and reputation to earn the respect and admiration of even Optimus Prime himself.