Skybound’s Transformers #22 Review: The Last Stand
The Energon Universe has consistently raised the bar for licensed comics, and the flagship Transformers series is a major reason why. From the very first issue, the creative team has delivered a story packed with emotional weight, brutal action, and a deep respect for the source material. This has turned many readers into lifelong fans of this wonderful franchise. As we dive into our Transformers #22 review, it’s clear the stakes have never been higher. The Autobots are on their last legs, and the Decepticons are closing in for the final, devastating blow. Writer Daniel Warren Johnson and artist Jorge Corona prepare to plunge readers into one of the darkest hours for our heroes.
A Spoiler-Free Transformers #22 Review
This latest issue from Image Comics and Skybound is an exercise in tension and desperation. If you’ve been following the series, you know the Autobots have been through the wringer, but this issue takes their struggle to a whole new level. The story picks up in the immediate aftermath of a devastating attack, with the Autobot forces scattered and their iconic leader, Optimus Prime, grievously wounded. Johnson’s script wastes no time establishing the sheer hopelessness of their situation. The opening pages are a masterclass in showing, not telling, as the surviving heroes grapple with immense loss and the crushing reality of their impending defeat.
The emotional core of the issue revolves around Optimus Prime’s fading strength. He is not just physically broken; his very spark is threatened from within by a debilitating affliction that leaves him shockingly vulnerable. This internal struggle is just as compelling as the external conflict. We see the heavy toll leadership has taken on him, and the weakness he displays is both heartbreaking and deeply humanizing. His followers are forced to confront the possibility of a future without him, a concept that feels both tragic and terrifyingly imminent. Meanwhile, the human element of the story continues to shine. Unlikely allies, having witnessed the Autobots’ heroism, step up to offer aid in their darkest moment, reminding readers that hope can be found even when all seems lost.
On the other side of the war, Megatron is portrayed with a chilling sense of purpose. He isn’t just a rampaging monster; he’s a calculating, cold, and philosophical tyrant. While the Decepticons hunt their weakened foes, Megatron reflects on his own vision for the future and Prime’s perceived failures. This glimpse into his psyche makes him an even more formidable antagonist. You understand his motivations, even as you witness the horrific results of his actions. The Decepticon forces are not just a mindless horde; they are an overwhelming military power that is systematically dismantling Earth’s defenses. Johnson expertly cuts between the intimate, character-driven moments of the Autobots and the epic, terrifying scale of the invasion, creating a relentless pace that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
The artwork in this book is absolutely stellar. Jorge Corona’s gritty, kinetic style is a perfect match for the story’s tone. Every panel is filled with raw energy, whether it’s a quiet moment of despair or an explosive action sequence. His character expressions convey a world of emotion, from Prime’s weary pain to Megatron’s cold fury. The action scenes are brutal and visceral, capturing the immense power and weight of these robotic titans. Colorist Mike Spicer enhances the art beautifully, using a palette that shifts from the dark, moody tones of the Autobots’ hiding place to the fiery chaos of the battlefield. The visuals perfectly complement the bleak narrative, making this one of the best-looking books on the shelves. This latest issue is a testament to how a creative team in perfect sync can elevate a story to incredible heights.
The Final Stand Approaches
Transformers #22 is a powerful, gut-wrenching installment that sets the stage for an unforgettable climax. It’s a story about hitting rock bottom and the monumental effort it takes to stand back up. The creative team masterfully balances high-octane action with profound character moments, delivering a comic that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant. With the final battle building towards a devastating urban showdown, this issue serves as the deep breath before the final, world-shattering plunge. It is an essential read for any fan of the franchise and a shining example of what modern comics can achieve.
What are your predictions for the final battle? Let us know your thoughts over on our Twitter page!
Creative Team:
- Writer: Daniel Warren Johnson
- Artist: Jorge Corona
- Colorist: Mike Spicer
- Letterer: Rus Wooton
- Editor: Ben Abernathy
Release Details:
- Title: TRANSFORMERS #22
- Publisher: Image Comics / Skybound
- Release Date: July 9, 2025
- Cover Price: $3.99
- Synopsis: ONE WILL RISE. ONE HAS FALLEN. There’s no going back as the Autobots and Decepticons prepare to make their last stand.
TRANSFORMERS #22 will be available at comic book shops and on digital platforms. Be sure to check out all the incredible variant covers available!
