Author: Bianca Kisselburg  LPC-S, RPT-S™, ICST-P, GTC
In Transformers Energon Universe #16, Daniel Warren Johnson delivers a masterclass in emotional storytelling, combining the high-octane action and intergalactic stakes fans expect with a deeply personal exploration of grief, anger, and the journey of healing. Complemented by Jorge Corona’s striking art and Ben Abernathy’s deft editing, this issue is not just a continuation of the Transformers saga but a profound meditation on coping with loss.
The narrative centers on Optimus Prime, the steadfast leader of the Autobots, grappling with the aftermath of a devastating battle. The issue opens with a haunting scene: the ruins of a once-thriving city, strewn with the remnants of shattered lives. These remnants span the galaxy as among the wreckage on Earth, Optimus stands, his normally unwavering demeanor cracked by the weight of his decisions. Johnson’s writing captures this vulnerability with precision, portraying a leader who is both revered and profoundly human in his struggle to reconcile his duty with the cost of war.
One of the most compelling aspects of this issue is its structure, which mirrors the chaotic nature of grief. The story unfolds across multiple locations, from the devastated cities on Earth to the Autobot base in disarray, to the deep reaches of space where the Decepticons gather their strength. This fragmented approach underscores the overwhelming and disorienting experience of loss as characters try to process their emotions while the world around them spirals into chaos. The simultaneous action across these different settings creates a palpable tension, reminding readers that grief does not pause the demands of leadership or the urgency of survival.
Jorge Corona’s art amplifies the story’s emotional resonance. His dynamic line work and expressive character designs convey the intensity of the action while capturing the subtleties of emotion. The battle scenes are equally impressive, with Corona’s kinetic style bringing a visceral energy to the page. The contrast between the explosive moments and the quieter, introspective scenes creates a rhythm that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish.
Colorist Sarah Stern deserves mention for her contribution to the book’s atmosphere. Her work enhances the fractured narrative’s emotional weight, using stack contrasts to delineate the shifts between locations and moods. The muted tones of the devastated cities evoke a sense of somber reflections, while the fiery explosions of battle scenes deliver a jarring intensity. Stern’s palette helps unify the disparate threads of the story, ensuring a visually cohesive experience.
The emergence of Megatron in this issue is a pivotal moment that shifts back into the fray, his presence looms like a storm cloud over an already fragile situation. Megatron’s return is handled with dramatic flair, his calculated actions and commanding dialogue underscoring his role as
both a foil to Optimus and a force of chaos. His arrival injects a new layer of complexity into the story, raising the stakes and adding to the tension that permeates every page.
The theme of coping with loss extends beyond Optimus, as the issue also explores the perspectives of other characters. Arcee, for instance, wrestles with her own grief, channeling her anger into a relentless pursuit of justice. Her scenes offer a counterpoint to Optimus’s introspection, highlighting the carried ways individuals process loss. This multifaceted approach adds depth to the story, making it not just a tale of robots in battle but a reflection of the shared human experience of mourning and resilience.
Ben Abernathy’s editing ensures these themes are woven seamlessly into the broader narrative. The pacing is impeccable, balancing the quieter, character-driven moments with the high-stakes action that defines the Transformers franchise. Abernathy’s guidance is evident in the issue’s tight structure, which builds to a climactic confrontation that feels both inevitable and earned.
Transformers Energon Universe #16 is a standout issue that transcends its genre, offering a story that is as emotionally resonant as it is action-packed. Daniel Warren Johnson’s writing, Jorge Corona’s art, and Ben Abernathy’s editing come together to create a narrative that is both epic in scope and deeply personal. By focusing on the themes of grief and the anger that often accompanies it, the issue resonates on a level that is rare in mainstream comics, reminding us that even in a universe of towering robots and interstellar warfare, it is the shared struggles of the heart that truly define us.
For fans of Transformers and newcomers alike, this issue is a must-read. It not only advances the overarching story but also enriches it with a layer of emotional depth that lingers long after the final page is turned. Where you’re here for the battles, the characters, or the poignant exploration of loss, Transformers Energon Universe #16 delivers on every front.
Exploring Grief and Resilience Through Transformers
Beyond its compelling storytelling, Transformers Energon Universe #16 offers a powerful lens for exploring grief, emotional endurance, and leadership stress—making it a valuable tool for therapy. The fragmented storytelling structure mirrors the disorienting experience of loss, making it relatable for those navigating complex emotions. Geek Therapy utilizes media to help clients understand themselves and the world around them. With this comic, we encourage therapists to explore how characters’ struggles with grief, duty, and resilience can serve as reflective tools in sessions. By drawing connections between these themes and real-life experiences, clients can engage in deeper self-exploration and healing.
Here are just a few examples of prompts for discussion in a therapy session using this comic:
- How does Optimus Prime’s grief mirror real-life experiences of loss?
- What are healthy and unhealthy ways Optimus and Arcee cope with grief?
- How does the weight of responsibility impact emotional well-being?
- How do different leadership roles affect the emotional burden of decision-making?
- What lessons can we take from how the Autobots and Decepticons handle conflict and trauma?
Therapists might also introduce activities to deepen reflection, such as having clients identify with a character’s journey and reflect on moments of strength and vulnerability or illustrate their own “battle aftermath” to process emotions tied to past losses. Clients could also reframe negative thought patterns around grief, responsibility, and leadership or engage in role-playing exercises where they act out conversations between characters to explore different coping strategies. Writing a letter from Optimus Prime’s perspective about his struggles can also serve as a meaningful way to connect personal experiences with the narrative.
By integrating Transformers Energon Universe #16 into therapy, clients can explore their struggles with loss, resilience, and self-expectations through a familiar and emotionally rich narrative.
Are you a Transformers fan? Will you be using this comic in your sessions? Share your thoughts in the comment section below, and consider donating to support more comic reviews like this!