REVIEW: ‘Transformers Galaxies,’ Issue #9

The final part of “Gauging the Truth” is here and Transformers Galaxies #9 concludes this short and sweet arc wonderfully. Published by IDW Publishing, written by Sam Maggs, with art by Beth McGuire-Smith, colors by Josh Burcham, and letters by Jake M. Wood, this issue centers on Gauge, the youngest Cybertronian alive, as she finds a way to defeat the Reversionists.

The last issue ended in the surprise revelation that the final destination of the Reversionists’ ship through space is exactly where it began: Cybertron. However, the Reversionists’ return is not a peaceful one; they intend to kill any Cybertronian that doesn’t join their cause. With Arcee and Greenlight finally free form the brig of the ship, the two mentors head to Cybertron’s surface to warn people about the Reverisonists while Gauge tries to destroy the Reversionsists from the inside. But not everything goes as planned.

Even with the release of Arcee and Greenlight from the brig, Gauge still takes the spotlight. We’ve seen Arcee kick butt in IDW’s other Transformers series, so it wouldn’t be out of character for the ‘bot to do the same on the Reversionist ship. But this is Gauge’s story and it just seems prudent that Gauge leads the charge in this. Although Acree and Greenlight still have an important part to play, the readers follow Gauge as she not only finds a way to defeat the Reversionists but also finds herself.

As I’ve said before in previous reviews, the Reversionists are an interesting bunch and a great plot device in this arc. We finally learn the intent of the Reversionists and they’re painted as rather evil. Their modus operandi simply being: follow their ideology or die. Despite being a rather wicked faction, Gauge tries to understand them. But the Reversionist assault on Cybertron is ultimately very different than the gray fighting between the Autobots and the Decepticons so it’s an interesting faction to add to the Transformers universe.

Gauge’s change from believer to a non-believer—her self-doubt as she tries to define herself outside of the expectations of others and her constant questioning of who’s right and who’s wrong—has been an interesting journey. And it’s a journey that I think a lot of people can relate with, not just in religious affairs but in many parts of life. Where Gauge’s journey in self-exploration ends at the conclusion of this arc is wonderfully satisfying. We also finally get to see Gauge’s alt form and I won’t spoil it, but it’s pretty nerdy; just up her alley.

Gauge continues to be an interesting character and her relationship with Arcee and Greenlight is heart-warming. Gauge is so grown-up for being so young, and being the youngest Cybertronian alive. Arcee and Greenlight are very parental, but despite this are always supporting Gauge’s decision in her own growth and journey.

McGuire-Smith’s art is extremely emotive.  It further enhances the heartening relationships between the characters and the tumultuous emotions Gauge is assaulted with as she finally realizes that she needs to believe in herself above all else. The colors used by Burcham truly strengthen these stirring moments with the use of cool tones, dark shadows, and strategic highlights.

The letters by Wood wrap everything up with speech bubbles that don’t clutter the panels and whose order is easy to follow. I particularly appreciate the fact that Gauge’s inner thoughts and monologue are separated from the rest of the speech bubbles with a blue background and square border.

Overall, this arc in Transformers Galaxies has been a fun one. Gauge is a great character and there’s a lot people can learn from her, especially in finding faith in yourself rather than others.

Transformers Galaxies #9 is available now wherever comics are sold.