Skybound Entertainment Revs Up New Adult Animated Series Based on “Transformers” & “G.I. Joe”
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A new animated series blending the iconic universes of “Transformers” and “G.I. Joe” is in development, promising a mature take on the beloved franchises. Based on the “Energon Universe” comics published by skybound Entertainment, the project aims to deliver action and storytelling geared towards older fans.
A Nostalgic Vision Realized
For Robert Kirkman, creator of “The walking Dead” and “Invincible,” this project represents a long-held ambition. He’s been a lifelong fan of both “Transformers” and “G.I. Joe,” and the “Energon Universe” is a testament to that passion. The universe is built around the Energon – the Transformers’ essential fuel source – and began with the comic “Void Rivals” penned by Kirkman himself, followed by an ongoing “Transformers” comic initially written and illustrated by Daniel Warren Johnson. Johnson later passed art duties to Jorge Corona after six issues, concluding his run with issue #24, with Kirkman taking over the writing with issue #25.
Building on Comic Success
The forthcoming animated series will be written and showrun by Joe Henderson, known for his work on “Lucifer.” Currently, the project is being “taken out to buyers,” meaning its streaming home has not yet been determined. While it’s not confirmed weather the series will land on the same platform as Kirkman’s existing animated adaptation of “Invincible” – which streams on Prime Video and is slated for a fourth season in 2026 – the intention is to maintain a similar adult-oriented tone.
Skybound’s comics have deliberately targeted an older audience, embracing a level of violence not typically seen in adaptations of these franchises. “Skybound’s ‘Transformers’ and ‘G.I. Joe’ comics have been targeted towards older fans and are unafraid of violence,” a company release stated, “so keeping that tone makes sense.” Whether the series will directly adapt the comic storylines or forge its own path within the “Energon Universe” continuity remains to be seen, but the prospect of bringing Johnson’s dynamic fight sequences to animation has generated excitement.
Crossovers and a Return to form for G.I. Joe
While a full-scale crossover between “Transformers” and “G.I. Joe” hasn’t yet materialized within the “Energon Universe” comics, subtle connections have begun to appear. G.I. Joe leader Duke made a cameo appearance as a fighter pilot in the second issue of the “transformers” comic,engaging in a dogfight with the decepticon Starscream. Similarly, the Autobot Hound, recognizable as a green military Jeep, has appeared in the ongoing “G.I. Joe” comic.
This new series marks a notable return for “G.I. Joe” in the animation space, as the franchise hasn’t seen a new cartoon as “G.I. Joe: Renegades” was canceled in 2011. The 2009 animated movie “G.I. Joe Resolute” offered a preview of the potential tone, presenting a “classic ‘G.I. Joe’ but played bloody serious” approach.
Optimus Prime’s Voice and Beyond
Currently, no voice cast has been announced. However, given Peter Cullen’s recurring role as Optimus Prime in Kirkman’s “Invincible” animated series, speculation is rife that he may reprise the iconic role. “I imagine it wouldn’t be difficult for Kirkman to convince Cullen to reprise Optimus once again for this new series,” one analyst noted.
As of now, there is no confirmed release date for the “Energon Universe” cartoon. However, the project’s development signals a bold new chapter for both “Transformers” and “G.I. Joe,” promising a thrilling and mature animated experience for longtime fans and newcomers alike.
