Transformers: The Basics

S1 · E1 · Jun 3, 2017

Continuity Episode 1

The first episode of a new series designed to help new Transformers fans get to grips with complicated concepts and lore! This episode gives you a basic overview of the history of the Transformers franchise and how it breaks down into different continuities.

S1 · E2 · Jun 10, 2017

Characters Episode 2

Episode #2 of a new series designed to help new Transformers fans get to grips with complicated concepts and lore! Lots of Transformers share the same name - so why are some similar, and some totally unrelated?

S1 · E3 · Jun 17, 2017

Biology Episode 3

Episode #3 of a new series designed to help new Transformers fans get to grips with complicated concepts and lore! Where do new Transformers come from? What are they made of? How do they transform? What's a spark? What happens when they die? All these questions and more answered!

S1 · E4 · Jun 24, 2017

Creation Myths Episode 4

Episode #4 of a new series designed to help new Transformers fans get to grips with complicated concepts and lore! Where do Transformers come from? What's the origin behind their race? THE LAST KNIGHT has some answers... but so does the rest of Transformers history!

S1 · E5 · Jul 1, 2017

IDW Comics Episode 5

Get THE BASICS on IDW Publishing's line of Transformers comic books! What is each series about? Where should you start reading?

S1 · E6 · Jul 15, 2017

BUMBLEBEE Episode 6

Get The Basics on BUMBLEBEE with this complete history of everyone's favorite little yellow guy, from G1 right the way up to today!

S1 · E7 · Jul 29, 2017

SHOCKWAVE Episode 7

Get The Basics on SHOCKWAVE with this complete history of the Decepticons' one-eyed, one-handed, flying purple people-pleaser!

S1 · E8 · Aug 12, 2017

ULTRA MAGNUS Episode 8

Get The Basics on ULTRA MAGNUS with this complete history of one of the Autobots' mightiest warriors!

S1 · E9 · Sep 2, 2017

THE PRIMES Episode 9

With POWER OF THE PRIMES on the way, it's time to get The Basics on the THIRTEEN, the original PRIMES of Cybertron... plus, just what IS a Prime, anyway?

S1 · E10 · Sep 16, 2017

the G1 CARTOON Episode 10

This weekend marks the anniversary of the premiere of "More than Meets the Eye, Part 1," the first episode of the GENERATION 1 CARTOON - so what better subject for this mini-documentary episode of The Basics?

S1 · E11 · Sep 30, 2017

the DINOBOTS Episode 11

With the classic DINOBOTS soon to make a return in the upcoming "Power of the Primes" toyline, this episode gives you the Basics on the history of the team, and all the others who have shared their name!

S1 · E12 · Oct 14, 2017

The Matrix Episode 12

One of the most important objects in all of Transformers, and one was on the list of planned episodes from the very start of this series - it's time to get The Basics on THE MATRIX!

S1 · E13 · Oct 28, 2017

Terrorcons Episode 13

Halloween is a time for terror... TERRORCONS, that is! Three very different types of 'bot from throughout Transformers history have used this name, and this Halloween special episodes gives you The Basics on all of them!

S1 · E14 · Nov 11, 2017

Headmasters Episode 14

On the anniversary of "The Rebirth," and just in time for the TITANS RETURN cartoon, it's time to get The Basics on HEADMASTERS, one of Transformers' most diverse and varied concepts!

S1 · E15 · Nov 25, 2017

Cyclonus Episode 15

Hot on the heels of his role in the Robots in Disguise cartoon, it's time to get THE BASICS on one of the most popular characters in Transformers comics today - CYCLONUS!

S1 · E16 · Dec 2, 2017

Shattered Glass Episode 16

Going for a deeper cut on this week's episode as we take a look at one of the most famous convention-exclusive concepts in Transformers, which has slowly begun to influence mainstream parts of the franchise. Time to get THE BASICS on SHATTERED GLASS!

S1 · E17 · Dec 16, 2017

Soundwave Episode 17

It's Christmas, so I figured what better present than to give in to popular demand? Everyone's been asking for it, so this week, we're diving into The Basics on one of the all-time greats - SOUNDWAVE!

S1 · E18 · Dec 30, 2017

Getaway Episode 18

To coincide with the release of this week's LOST LIGHT #12, we're going to ring in the New Year with The Basics on GETAWAY! Watch out for spoilers!

S1 · E19 · Jan 6, 2018

Skywarp Episode 19

S1 · E20 · Jan 13, 2018

Pretenders Episode 20

S1 · E21 · Jan 21, 2018

Beast Era Episode 21

S1 · E22 · Feb 10, 2018

Combiners Episode 22

S1 · E23 · Feb 17, 2018

Beast Wars: Uprising Episode 23

S1 · E24 · Feb 24, 2018

Jetfire Episode 24

S1 · E25 · Mar 3, 2018

Beast Modes Episode 25

S1 · E26 · Mar 17, 2018

Hoist Episode 26

S1 · E27 · Apr 1, 2018

Gobots Episode 27

S1 · E28 · Apr 7, 2018

Beast Wars Megatron Episode 28

S1 · E29 · Apr 21, 2018

Titans Episode 29

S1 · E30 · May 5, 2018

Mini-Cons Episode 30

S1 · E31 · May 19, 2018

Nemesis Prime Episode 31

S1 · E32 · May 26, 2018

Insecticons Episode 32

S1 · E33 · Jun 9, 2018

Windblade Episode 33

S1 · E34 · Jun 23, 2018

Hearts Of Steel Episode 34

S1 · E35 · Jun 30, 2018

Prowl Episode 35

S1 · E36 · Jul 14, 2018

Optimus Primal Episode 36

S1 · E37 · Jul 28, 2018

Female Transformers Episode 37

S1 · E38 · Aug 4, 2018

Beachcomber Episode 38

S1 · E39 · Aug 18, 2018

Perceptor Episode 39

S1 · E40 · Sep 15, 2018

Unicron Trilogy Episode 40

S1 · E41 · Sep 29, 2018

Combaticons Episode 41

S1 · E42 · Oct 13, 2018

Wreckers Episode 42

S1 · E43 · Oct 27, 2018

Grimlock Episode 43

S1 · E44 · Nov 3, 2018

Overlord Episode 44

S1 · E45 · Nov 17, 2018

Wheeljack Episode 45

S1 · E46 · Dec 1, 2018

Blackarachnia Episode 46

S1 · E47 · Dec 15, 2018

Micromasters Episode 47

S1 · E48 · Dec 22, 2018

Blitzwing Episode 48

S1 · E49 · Jan 5, 2019

Punch/Counterpunch Episode 49

S1 · E50 · Jan 12, 2019

Acid Storm Episode 50

S1 · E51 · Jan 19, 2019

Quickswitch Episode 51

S1 · E52 · Feb 2, 2019

Bludgeon Episode 52

S1 · E53 · Feb 4, 2019

Slipstream Episode 53

S1 · E54 · Feb 9, 2019

Predacons Episode 54

S1 · E55 · Feb 16, 2018

Robots In Disguise (2001) Episode 55

S1 · E56 · Feb 23, 2019

Omega Supreme Episode 56

S1 · E57 · Mar 2, 2019

Quintessons Episode 57

S1 · E58 · Mar 9, 2019

Star Saber Episode 58

S1 · E59 · Mar 23, 2019

Galvatron Episode 59

S1 · E60 · Mar 30, 2019

Ironhide Episode 60

S1 · E61 · Apr 13, 2019

Unicron Episode 61

S1 · E62 · Apr 20, 2019

Decepticon Justice Division Episode 62

S1 · E63 · Apr 27, 2019

Blaster Episode 63

S1 · E64 · May 11, 2019

Around The World Episode 64

S1 · E65 · May 18, 2019

Cheetor Episode 65

S1 · E66 · May 25, 2019

Hound Episode 66

S1 · E67 · Jun 8, 2019

The Japanese Series Episode 67

S1 · E68 · Jun 22, 2019

Starscream Episode 68

S1 · E69 · Jun 29, 2019

Seacons Episode 69

S1 · E70 · Jul 13, 2019

Inferno Episode 70

S1 · E71 · Jul 20, 2019

Sentinel Prime Episode 71

S1 · E72 · Aug 3, 2019

Targetmasters Episode 72

S1 · E73 · Aug 10, 2019

Elita One Episode 73

S1 · E74 · Aug 17, 2019

Sky-Byte Episode 74

S1 · E75 · Sep 7, 2019

Transformers Animated Episode 75

S1 · E76 · Sep 14, 2019

Springer Episode 76

S1 · E77 · Sep 28, 2019

Sixshot Episode 77

S1 · E78 · Oct 12, 2019

Jazz Episode 78

S1 · E79 · Aug 26, 2019

Lockdown Episode 79

S1 · E80 · Nov 9, 2019

Humans Episode 80

S1 · E81 · Nov 16, 2019

Straxus Episode 81

S1 · E82 · Nov 23, 2019

Drift Episode 82

S1 · E83 · Dec 7, 2019

Thundercracker Episode 83

S1 · E84 · Dec 14, 2019

Sideswipe Episode 84

S1 · E85 · Dec 21, 2019

Waspinator Episode 85

S1 · E86 · Jan 4, 2020

Reflector Episode 86

S1 · E87 · Jan 11, 2020

Ricochet Episode 87

S1 · E88 · Jan 18, 2020

Nightbird Episode 88

S1 · E89 · Jan 25, 2020

Hauler Episode 89

S1 · E90 · Feb 1, 2020

Energon Episode 90

S1 · E91 · Feb 8, 2020

Blurr Episode 91

S1 · E92 · Feb 14, 2020

Romance Episode 92

S1 · E93 · Feb 22, 2020

Scorponok Episode 93

S1 · E94 · Feb 29, 2020

Jumpstarters Episode 94

S1 · E95 · Mar 14, 2020

Constructicons Episode 95

S1 · E96 · Mar 21, 2020

Vector Sigma Episode 96

S1 · E97 · Mar 28, 2020

Bulkhead Episode 97

S1 · E98 · Apr 4, 2020

Spinister Episode 98

S1 · E99 · Apr 11, 2020

The Fallen Episode 99

S1 · E100 · Jun 20, 2020

The Invention of the Transformers Episode 100

Celebrating 100,000 subscribers with a return to the very beginning - from G.I. Joe to Henshin Cyborg, Microman to Micronauts, Diaclone to Micro Change, we look at the real-life history behind the invention of the Transformers!

S1 · E101 · Apr 25, 2020

Optimus Prime Episode 101

S1 · E102 · May 2, 2020

Ratbat Episode 102

S1 · E103 · May 9, 2020

Maccadam's Old Oil House Episode 103

S1 · E104 · May 23, 2020

Arcee Episode 104

S1 · E105 · May 30, 2020

Warpath Episode 105

S1 · E106 · Jun 6, 2020

Primus Episode 106

Patreon supporter FaceMan sponsors an episode that takes us back in time, to the dawn of creation and the beginning of the Transformer race, with The Basics on the god of the Transformers, PRIMUS!

S1 · E107 · Jun 27, 2020

Ravage Episode 107

Patreon supporter Arixmethes sponsors this look at the Decepticons' feline master of stealth - RAVAGE!

S1 · E108 · Jul 11, 2020

Sideways Episode 108

Don't believe everything you hear - especially if the one you hear it from is this two-faced trickster! These are The Basics on the one Transformer you should never trust, SIDEWAYS!

S1 · E109 · Jul 18, 2020

Rhinox Episode 109

Time for another visit to the kingdom of the beasts this week, as The Basics takes a look at the toughest, smartest member of the Maximals - RHINOX!

S1 · E110 · Jul 25, 2020

Cosmic Rust Episode 110

If Cybertron be your home, far away, never roam! Watch this video, listen and fear, danger comes, the end is near! A disease that turns Transformers to dust... these are The Basics on COSMIC RUST!

S1 · E111 · Aug 1, 2020

The Allspark Episode 111

As the Autobots and Decepticons once again go to war over it in Netflix's new WAR FOR CYBERTRON TRILOGY, learn the history of the relic that granted life to Cybetron and the Transformer race, with The Basics on THE ALLSPARK!

S1 · E112 · Aug 15, 2020

Red Alert Episode 112

From paranoid security director to serious-minded medic, these are The Basics on the emergency-services Autobot for whom caution is the watchword - RED ALERT!

S1 · E113 · Aug 29, 2020

Barricade Episode 113

From street-racing punk to bad cop - these are The Basics on the many 'bots who have gone by the name BARRICADE!

S1 · E114 · Sep 12, 2020

Box Art Episode 114

S1 · E115 · Sep 19, 2020

Omega Sentinels Episode 115

Unfortunately for the Decepticons, the gigantic Autobot Omega Supreme isn't the only one of his kind! This week, it's The Basics on Cybertron's gigantic, ancient protectors, the Guardian Robots - aka, the OMEGA SENTINELS!

S1 · E116 · Sep 26, 2020

Ratchet Episode 116

S1 · E117 · Oct 10, 2020

Teletraan 1 Episode 117

S1 · E118 · Oct 17, 2020

Transforming Episode 118

S1 · E119 · Oct 31, 2020

Monsterbots Episode 119

S1 · E120 · Nov 7, 2020

Knock Out Episode 120

S1 · E121 · Nov 14, 2020

Smokescreen Episode 121

S1 · E122 · Nov 28, 2020

Action Masters Episode 122

S1 · E123 · Dec 5, 2020

Alpha Trion Episode 123

S1 · E124 · Dec 19, 2020

Hot Rod Episode 124

S1 · E125 · Jan 2, 2021

Bug Bite Episode 125

S1 · E126 · Sep 26, 2020

Bumper Episode 126

S1 · E127 · Jan 16, 2021

Flamewar Episode 127

S1 · E128 · Jan 23, 2021

Moonracer Episode 128

S1 · E129 · Jan 30, 2021

Soundblaster Episode 129

S1 · E130 · Feb 6, 2021

Space Bridges Episode 130

S1 · E131 · Feb 13, 2021

Doubledealer Episode 131

S1 · E132 · Feb 20, 2021

Scraplets Episode 132

S1 · E133 · Feb 27, 2021

Sky Lynx Episode 133

S1 · E134 · Mar 13, 2021

Scourge Episode 134

S1 · E135 · Mar 20, 2021

Cybertronian Colonies Episode 135

S1 · E136 · Mar 27, 2021

Seaspray Episode 136

S1 · E137 · Apr 17, 2021

Triple Changers Episode 137

S1 · E138 · Apr 24, 2021

Aerialbots Episode 138

S1 · E139 · May 1, 2021

Liege Maximo Episode 139

S1 · E140 · May 15, 2021

Beast Wars in Japan Episode 140

S1 · E141 · May 22, 2021

Blackout Episode 141

S1 · E142 · May 29, 2021

Rubsigns Episode 142

S1 · E143 · Jun 12, 2021

Chromdome Episode 143

S1 · E144 · Jun 19, 2021

Circuit Breaker Episode 144

S1 · E145 · Jun 26, 2021

The Great War Episode 145

S1 · E146 · Jul 10, 2021

Cliffjumper Episode 146

The 'bot who everyone always seems to think is just "Red Bumblebee" - the little Autobot go-getter, CLIFFJUMPER!

S1 · E147 · Jul 24, 2021

G.I JOE CROSSOVERS Episode 147

S1 · E148 · Jul 31, 2021

Beast Wars DINOBOT Episode 148

S1 · E149 · Aug 7, 2021

SHARKTICONS Episode 149

S1 · E150 · Aug 14, 2021

MEGATRON Episode 150

S1 · E151 · Sep 11, 2021

The Golden Disk Episode 151

S1 · E152 · Sep 18, 2021

Trypticon Episode 152

S1 · E153 · Sep 25, 2021

Whirl Episode 153

S1 · E154 · Oct 9, 2021

The Ark Episode 154

S1 · E155 · Oct 16, 2021

Tidal Wave Episode 155

S1 · E156 · Oct 30, 2021

The Horrorcons Episode 156

S1 · E157 · Nov 6, 2021

Skids Episode 157

S1 · E158 · Nov 13, 2021

Kiss Players Episode 158

S1 · E159 · Nov 27, 2021

Swindle Episode 159

S1 · E160 · Dec 4, 2021

Astrotrain Episode 160

S1 · E161 · Dec 18, 2021

The Aligned Continuity Episode 161

S1 · E162 · Jan 1, 2022

Road Rage Episode 162

S1 · E163 · Jan 8, 2022

Enemy Episode 163

S1 · E164 · Jan 15, 2022

Transmutate Episode 164

S1 · E165 · Jan 23, 2022

Shadow Striker Episode 165

S1 · E166 · Jan 29, 2022

Rack 'n' Ruin Episode 166

S1 · E167 · Feb 5, 2022

Protoforms Episode 167

S1 · E168 · Feb 12, 2022

Slug Episode 168

S1 · E169 · Feb 19, 2022

Tigatron Episode 169

S1 · E170 · Mar 5, 2022

The Protectobots Episode 170

S1 · E171 · Mar 12, 2022

Brawn Episode 171

S1 · E172 · Mar 19, 2020

Sandstorm Episode 172

S1 · E173 · Apr 2, 2022

KREMZEEK! Episode 173

S1 · E174 · Apr 16, 2022

Dreadwing Episode 174

S1 · E175 · Apr 23, 2022

Lio Convoy Episode 175

S1 · E176 · May 7, 2022

The Marvel Comic Episode 176

S1 · E177 · May 14, 2022

Jhiaxus Episode 177

S1 · E178 · May 21, 2022

Powermasters Episode 178

S1 · E179 · May 28, 2022

Thrust Episode 179

S1 · E180 · Jun 4, 2022

The Underbase Saga Episode 180

S1 · E181 · Jun 18, 2022

Bumblebee (Updated for 2022!) Episode 181

S1 · E182 · Jul 2, 2022

Shockwave Episode 182

S1 · E183 · Jul 9, 2022

Vector Prime Episode 183

S1 · E184 · Jul 23, 2022

Deathsaurus Episode 184

S1 · E185 · Aug 6, 2022

The Vok Episode 185

S1 · E186 · Aug 20, 2022

The Primus Vanguard Episode 186

S1 · E187 · Sep 3, 2022

Rattrap Episode 187

S1 · E188 · Sep 17, 2022

IDW's Robots in Disguise Episode 188

S1 · E189 · Oct 1, 2022

Steeljaw Episode 189

S1 · E190 · Oct 15, 2022

Liokaiser Episode 190

S1 · E191 · Oct 29, 2022

Starscream's Ghost Episode 191

S1 · E192 · Nov 12, 2022

Dreamwave Episode 192

For the first decade of the Tranformers franchise, Marvel Comics were king... but after "Generation 2" ended in 1994, "Transformers" comics went away. Then, in the early 2002, a new company took the reigns, producing wildly successful new series... that, in just a few short years, inexperienced, egotistical business owners drove straight into the friggin' ground. Patreon supporter Luke Wood sponsors this look at the history of DREAMWAVE!

S1 · E193 · Nov 26, 2022

Laserbeak Episode 193

This week, we're taking it back to 1984 once more for a look at another of the Transformers franchise's founding characters - Soundwave's favourite cassette, LASERBEAK!

S1 · E194 · Dec 3, 2022

Iguanus Episode 194

Obscure Characters Month begins with a look at the reptilian Decepticon given new life by this year's Transformers: Legacy toyline - IGUANUS!

S1 · E195 · Dec 10, 2022

Dion Episode 195

This year brought us a new toy of Orion Pax, the young robot who was fated to become Autobot leader Optimus Prime... but before he was Prime, Pax had a best friend, and that's the bot we're looking at today! It's The Basics on DION!

S1 · E196 · Dec 17, 2022

Skullgrin Episode 196

Obscure Characters Month continues with another 'bot who got a new toy in this year's "Transformers: Legacy" toyline - the monstrous mechanoid that Marvel made a movie star, SKULLGRIN!

S1 · E197 · Dec 24, 2022

Crasher Episode 197

Crashing through the snow, this Go-Bot's out to slay, stomping as she goes, laughing all the way! This year's Obscure Characters Month comes to a close with the basics on that riotous renegade who's gone from GoBotron to Cybertron and back again - It's The Basics on CRASHER!

S1 · E198 · Jan 28, 2023

The Seekers Episode 198

And we're back! For first first video of 2023, it's time to look at one of the most iconic aspects of the entire Transformers franchise - the lookalike Decepticon jets known as the SEEKERS!

S1 · E199 · Feb 11, 2023

Death's Head Episode 199

He's met the Transformers, Doctor Who, and the heroes of the Marvel Universe... but if YOU ever meet this mercenary mechanoid, just be sure you DON'T call him a bounty hunter! These are The Basics on DEATH'S HEAD!

S1 · E200 · Feb 25, 2023

Hot Shot Episode 200

Kids today have Bumblebee... but twenty years ago, the audience of the early 2000s had this 'bot! Episode #200 finally looks at The Basics on the poster boy of the Unicron Trilogy, HOT SHOT!

S1 · E201 · Mar 11, 2023

Stunticons Episode 201

Celebrating 200,000 subscribers with a long-demanded episode looking at The Basics on those Decepticon road-hogs, the STUNTICONS!

S1 · E202 · Mar 25, 2023

Nova Prime Episode 202

This episode takes another dive into Cybertron's ancient history, with The Basics on another of the robots who carried the Matrix of Leadership before Optimus Prime: NOVA PRIME!

S1 · E203 · Apr 8, 2023

Cosmos Episode 203

The Basics reaches for the stars this week, with a look at the history of the Autobots' outer space lookout, COSMOS!

S1 · E204 · Apr 22, 2023

Crosshairs Episode 204

This week, The Basics sets its sights on a popular request from the comments section - Targetmasters, sharpshooter, paratrooper, movie star, it's CROSSHAIRS!

S1 · E205 · May 6, 2023

DARK ENERGON Episode 205

UNICRON IS COMING! Ahead of the chaos-bringer's return to the big screen in this summer's "Rise of the Beasts," get primed with this history of his evil energy and its many unearthly abilities in The Basics on DARK ENERGON!

S1 · E206 · May 20, 2023

Vehicons Episode 206

From "Beast Machines" to "Transformers: Prime" and beyond, these are the Basics on the endless, faceless, mass-produced armies of evil - the VEHICONS!

S1 · E207 · Jun 3, 2023

Metalhawk Episode 207

As we await the release of "Rise of the Beasts," and its introduction of a new team of Transformers who have been living in secret on Earth for centuries, The Basics looks at the Autobot who did it before it was cool! It's Earth's original secret protector, METALHAWK!

S1 · E208 · Jun 10, 2023

Mirage Episode 208

"Rise of the Beasts" is in cinemas now - and that means that, at long, long last, it's finally time for me to deliver the episode you've been asking for! It's the Basics on the movie's new leading 'bot, the Autobot illusion-caster, MIRAGE!

S1 · E209 · Jun 17, 2023

The Maximals Episode 209

Creeping, crawling, and flying out of the world of "Beast Wars," get ready to go Beast Mode with this look at the history of the animal-form Transformers who have just set screens alight with their live-action debut in "Rise of the Beasts"!

S1 · E210 · Jun 24, 2023

Airazor Episode 210

Wrapping up our "Rise of the Beasts" theme month with a look at the history of the high-flying Maximal who just made her big-screen debut! It's The Basics on AIRAZOR!

S1 · E211 · Jul 8, 2023

Fortress Maximus Episode 211

Patreon supporter Devin Brimhall sponsors this episode about the biggest Autobot of them all!

S1 · E212 · Jul 22, 2023

Generation 2 Episode 212

Patreon Supporter Dad Brad sponsors this episode of the relaunched cartoon and toyline.

S1 · E213 · Aug 5, 2023

Mini-Bots Episode 213

Patreon supporter @KeyanCarlileTF sponsors this episode! Keyan requested a look at the Transformers franchise's long history of retooling and recolouring Bumblebee to create new characters - and to tell that story in full, we need to go right back to the start, and look at The Basics on the short-statured members of the Autobot army - the MINI-BOTS!

S1 · E214 · Aug 19, 2023

Trainbots Episode 214

Tickets please! Hop aboard for another journey to the Japanese side of the world of the Transformers, with a look at the history of some of the country's first original TF characters - the TRAINBOTS!

S1 · E215 · Sep 2, 2023

Battle Beasts Episode 215

Transformers wasn't the only toyline created through the partnership of Hasbro and Takara - these are The Basics on one of their other big collaborations, the BEASTFORMERS, aka BATTLE BEASTS! Patreon supporter Greg Sepelak sponsors this look at the surprising and long-lived connection between the robots in disguise and these armoured animal warriors!

S1 · E216 · Sep 16, 2023

The Nemesis Episode 216

Hot on the heels of its long-awaited released in toy form in the "Legacy" line this summer, we're finally taking a look at the Decepticon space cruiser that serves as the evil counterpart to the Autobot's iconic Ark: THE NEMESIS!

S1 · E217 · Sep 30, 2023

Strongarm Episode 217

Sometimes Transformers history takes an unexpected left turn, and a 'bot who started out as one thing becomes something entirely different - as you'll find out in the story of the 'bot who went from energon-sculpting Omnicon to rule-obsessed police cadet! These are The Basics on STRONGARM!

S1 · E218 · Oct 14, 2023

Bombshell Episode 218

Spooky season is just around the corner, so let's warm up with The Basics on at one of the creepiest 'cons around, the Insecticon master of mind control, BOMBSHELL!

S1 · E219 · Oct 28, 2023

Mindwipe Episode 219

This year's Halloween special takes a look at the history of the Decepticons' batty black magician, Mindwipe!

S1 · E220 · Nov 11, 2023

Rescue Bots Episode 220

Transformers toys are generally intended for kids aged 5+, but over the years, Hasbro has made several attempts to target the preschool market with big, simple figures for little hands. This is the story of their most successful endevaour - it's time to Roll to the Rescue with The Basics on RESCUE BOTS!

S1 · E221 · Nov 25, 2023

Soundwave - Updated for 2023! Episode 221

Updated and expanded, revised and re-written, it's time for a fresh look at The Basics on Megatron's loyal spymaster SOUNDWAVE, now including all the new toys, cartoons, and comics and movies that have come out since the original episode six years ago!

S1 · E222 · Dec 2, 2023

Toxitron Episode 222

Kicking off Obscure Characters Month 2023 with a look at the story of that lean, green, pollution-spewing machine, TOXITRON!

S1 · E223 · Dec 9, 2023

Apelinq Episode 223

Obscure Characters Month continues with the history of a Maximal science-hero who this year made a very unexpected appearance in live-action! It's The Basics on APELINQ!

S1 · E224 · Dec 6, 2023

Antagony Episode 224

Obscure Characters Month continues with more BotCon Beast Wars content, as we look at The Basics on ANTAGONY! Pain is her friend - allow her to introduce YOU to it!

S1 · E225 · Dec 26, 2023

Transit Episode 225

Obscure Characters Month plumbs new depths with the paragon of public transport, the duke of the deleted scene, the maestro of memes - It's The Basics on how a very under-represented alternate mode has slowly grown in prominence to inspire TRANSIT!

S1 · E226 · Dec 30, 2023

Kranix Episode 226

2023's "Rise of the Beasts" saw the return of Unicron to cinema screens, so to wrap up Obscure Characters Month for this year, we're looking at The Baiscs on KRANIX - a 'bot from the world that was the planet-eater's first victim, when he made his debut in 1986's "The Transformers: The Movie"!

S1 · E227 · Jan 27, 2024

The Golden Age of Cybertron Episode 227

Cybertron wasn't always a world at war - once, long ago, the Transformers' home planet was a world without conflict, when energy flowed freely, and peace reigned. These are The Basics on the history of Cybertron and it's harmonious GOLDEN AGE!

S1 · E228 · Feb 10, 2024

Kup Episode 228

If you're looking for some history and lore from the world of the Transformers, there's no 'bot better suited to spin you a tale than the one we're looking at in this episode - curmugeonly old Autobot KUP!

S1 · E229 · Feb 24, 2024

Snarl Episode 229

This week, The Basics turns the spotlight on another of those prehistoric powerhouses, the Dinobots - the surly stegosaurus whose name got away from him, SNARL!

S1 · E230 · Mar 9, 2024

Sparks Episode 230

This episode takes a long-overdue dive into the mysteries of Transformer life itself, with a look at the concept of the Cybertronian soul - the SPARK, the mystical lifeforce that makes Autobots and Decepticons more than mere machines!

S1 · E231 · Mar 23, 2024

Breakdown Episode 231

Don't let this episode's subject know I've made a video about him - he wouldn't like the idea of being watched by so many people! It's The Basics on the paranoid Stunticon, BREAKDOWN!

S1 · E232 · Apr 6, 2024

Magmatron Episode 232

This week's episode is about the prehistoric powerhouse of a Predacon thrust back into the spotlight by the Legacy toyline this year! Blazing in from the Japanese side of the world of "Beast Wars," these are The Basics on MAGMATRON!

S1 · E233 · Apr 20, 2024

Rock Lords Episode 233

Today we explore the secret origins of the Armorizers with a look back at what's often thought of as one of the oddest toylines of the 80s, a spin-off of the Transformers' direct rivals, the GoBots! Shaking, quaking, crashing, breaking: it's The Basics on ROCK LORDS - powerful living rocks!!

S1 · E234 · May 4, 2024

Omega Prime Episode 234

From one of the more overlooked "Transformers" cartoons to HasLab success story - these are The Basics on the combined form of Optimus Prime and Ultra Magnus, OMEGA PRIME! Plus - the story of the time Optimus Prime was a girl! Who is... YELLOW SPLENDID CONVOY?

S1 · E235 · May 11, 2024

Chromia Episode 235

This week, it's time for The Basics on one of the very first female Transformers - Elita One's second-in-command, Ironhide's lady, and Windblade's best galpal, CHROMIA!

S1 · E236 · May 25, 2024

Technobots Episode 236

Finally! This week, we're taking a look at the history of the last of the classic G1 Autobot combiner teams - fearless, futuristic warriors unappreciated in their own time - the bots whose combined form was once voiced by *MatPat* of all people! - those often-overlooked high-tech heroes, the TECHNOBOTS!

S1 · E237 · Jun 8, 2024

Minerva Episode 237

Sponsored by Patreon supporter El Coronna, this week we're looking at the first female Transformer toy ever produced! From the Japanese-original series "Super-God Masterforce," these are The Basics on MINERVA!

S1 · E238 · Jun 22, 2024

Roadbuster Episode 238

Patreon supporter Brigadier Darman sponsors this look at a prennial member of the Wreckers - the down and dirty ROADBUSTER!

S1 · E239 · Jul 6, 2024

TRIPREDACUS COUNCIL Episode 239

They're the rulers of the evil Predacons and masters of the long game, preferring to bide their time, scheming in the shadows until the moment is right for them to strike! It's The Basics on the TRIPREDACUS COUNCIL!

S1 · E240 · Jul 20, 2024

TRANSFORMERS: PRIME Episode 240

As the 2000s were reaching their end, "Transformers" underwent a huge surge in popularity and success thanks the first live-action movie, which Hasbro were quick to capitalise on with the launch of their own TV network, which served as home to a prestigious new high-budget TF cartoon! Patreon supporter Dom Verzi sponsors this look at the making and legacy of their favourite TF show, "TRANSFORMERS: PRIME"!

S1 · E241 · Aug 3, 2024

RAPTORICONS Episode 241

Delving into the obscure this week with an episode sponsored by official Transformers artist Matt Frank, who wanted The Basics to look at the fanged foursome of ferocious females he created for the Transformers Collectors Club - the RAPTORICONS!

S1 · E242 · Aug 17, 2024

STAR SEEKERS Episode 242

Arr, matey! Back in the spotlight thanks to a new range of toys in this year's LEGACY line, it's The Basics on vengeful pirate captain THUNDERTRON and his crew of scurvy space-dogs, the Star Raiders - better known as the STAR SEEKERS!

S1 · E243 · Aug 31, 2024

MAYHEM ATTACK SQUAD Episode 243

Autobots beware! This week, The Basics dishes out doom 'n' destruction with a look at the worst of the worst, the Decepticons' MAYHEM ATTACK SQUAD!

S1 · E244 · Sep 14, 2024

METROPLEX Episode 244

This week it's a popular request from the comments, as we break down the history of the original Autobot city-former, greatest of all the Titans, Scramble City himself - METROPLEX!

S1 · E245 · Oct 5, 2024

ORION PAX Episode 245

Discover the origins of OPTIMUS PRIME with this special TRANSFORMERS ONE tie-in episode, unpacking the full story of the Autobot leader's early life, and the 'bot he used to be - ORION PAX!

S1 · E246 · Oct 19, 2024

D-16 Episode 246

Discover the origins of MEGATRON with this special TRANSFORMERS ONE tie-in episode, exploring the full story of the Decepticon leader's rise to power from his humble beginnings as an ordinary 'bot named D-16!

S1 · E247 · Oct 26, 2024

MONSTRUCTOR Episode 247

Time for another peek into the creepy corners of the Transformers universe in a Halloween Basics about the monstrous Decepticon formed by the combination of the Pretender Monsters Birdbrain, Bristleback, Icepick, Scowl, Slog, and Wildfly - MONSTRUCTOR! Plus get the lowdown on his Japanese counterpart from "Victory,", DINOKING and the DINOFORCE, back in the headlines this year thanks to the Legacy toyline!

S1 · E248 · Nov 9, 2024

ELITA ONE - Updated for 2024 Episode 248

Revised and re-written for 2024! Things have changed a lot for the leader of the female Autobots in the five years since The Basics originally look at her history, not least of all her recent big-screen starring role in TRANSFORMERS ONE!

S1 · E249 · Nov 23, 2024

ULTRA MAGNUS - Updated for 2024 Episode 249

Celebrating 250 episodes with an overhauled and updated version of one of my very first character spotlight videos from over seven years ago! It's The Basics on the Autobots' greatest warrior, ULTRA MAGNUS!

S1 · E250 · Dec 7, 2024

DEVCON Episode 250

Obscure Characters Month 2024 kicks off with the story of the Autobot bounty hunter created for the original cartoon and kept alive by conventions!

S1 · E251 · Dec 14, 2024

HARDTOP Episode 251

Obscure Characters Month continues! He's far from one of the best-known Decepticons there is, but this little-heard-of Decepticon sniper has a tendency to pop up in roles of surprisingly significance just when you're least expecting him!

S1 · E252 · Dec 21, 2024

XAARON Episode 252

The penultimate entry in this year's Obscure Character Month returns us to the world of the original Marvel "Transformers" comic book! He's an Autobot councillor turned resistance leader turned avatar of Primus, who just this year, after nearly four decades, recieved his first ever toy. These are The Basics on EMIRATE XAARON!

S1 · E253 · Dec 28, 2024

QUAKE Episode 253

Bringing Obscure Characters Month 2024 to an end with the Decepticon Targetmaster whose biggest claim to fame is the fact he tends to die at the end of nearly every story he appears in! Back in the spotlight currently with his little buddies Tiptop and Heater thanks to the Legacy toyline, it's The Basics on QUAKE!

S1 · E254 · Jan 25, 2025

SUNSTREAKER Episode 254

Let's get back to Basics for 2025 with a video you've been asking me to do for ages! We're going right back to where it all began with the first Transformer, the coolest Countach, the self-lovin' lambo, the Autobot egotist who thinks he's the most beautiful machine to ever roll off the line -- SUNSTREAKER!

S1 · E255 · Feb 8, 2025

HATE PLAGUE Episode 255

This week we're looking at another of the deadly diseases of the Transformers universe, from it's introduction in "The Return of Optimus Prime" to its recent return to TV in "EarthSpark" - the roiling red rage that is THE HATE PLAGUE!

S1 · E256 · Feb 22, 2025

TARANTULAS Episode 256

Arachnophobes beware! This popular request from the comments returns us to the world of "Beast Wars" for a look at the history of the evil Predacon scientist, TARANTULAS!

S1 · E257 · Mar 8, 2025

BONECRUSHER Episode 257

From construction to destruction, from Constructicon to Beast Warrior, tiny Mini-Con to giant Combiner, bulldozer to buffalo - this 'bot does it all! Arriving just in time for his new Studio Series release, it's The Basics on the many different Transformers who have shared the name BONECRUSHER!

S1 · E258 · Mar 18, 2025

Prima Prime Episode 258

The Age of the Primes is upon us! Come with me now back to the very dawn of Cybertron itself, for a look at the story of the first Transformer ever created by Primus! Wielder of the Star Saber, bearer of the Matrix, leader of the Thirteen Primes - these are The Basics on PRIMA!

S1 · E259 · Apr 2, 2025

Victory Episode 259

After yet another successful HasLab campaign, I thought it was time we took a closer look at the series Star Saber, Deathsaurus, and Liokaiser came from! These are The Basics on "Brave No. 0," the most popular of the Japanese-original Generation 1 anime, TRANSFORMERS: VICTORY!

S1 · E260 · Apr 14, 2025

Ramjet Episode 260

Keepin' it classic this week, with a look at another of the iconic Decepticon jets!

S1 · E261 · Apr 29, 2025

Override Episode 261

S1 · E262 · May 22, 2025

Solus Prime Episode 262

The Age of the Primes continues! Join me for another look into the mists of Transformers history, as we tackle The Basics on the tragic tale of the first female Cybertronian, SOLUS PRIME!

S1 · E263 · Jun 7, 2025

Silverbolt Episode 263

From the Aerialbots to the Beast Wars, this episode look at two iconic Transformers characters with one thing in common! It's another Age of the Primes tie-in, as we look at the The Basics on the high-flying heroes who share the name SILVERBOLT!

S1 · E264 · Jun 21, 2025

OPTIMUS PRIME'S AXE Episode 264

It's one of the Autobot leader's signature weapons, going right back to the original G1 cartoon - but it hasn't always been widely represented onscreen! Learn its history in The Basics on Optimus Prime's Energon Axe!

S1 · E265 · Jul 5, 2025

GINRAI Episode 265

He LOOKS like Optimus Prime... but he's not! Journey with me now once more to the Japanese side of the world of the Transformers, and discover the story of the human being who wore the face of the ionic Autobot leader, GINRAI, as The Summer of Optimus Prime continues!

S1 · E266 · Jul 19, 2025

STAR OPTIMUS PRIME Episode 266

The Summer of Optimus Prime heats up with an episode looking at the Autobot leader's ultimate transformation! Just in time for his new toy in this year's AGE OF THE PRIMES, it's the positively stellar STAR OPTIMUS PRIME - aka STAR CONVOY!

S1 · E267 · Aug 2, 2025

ROLLER Episode 267

The Summer of Optimus Prime rolls on with the history of the companion who's been with the Autobot leader through forty years of adventures! He's the little drone that could - ROLLER!

S1 · E268 · Aug 30, 2025

The THIRTEENTH PRIME Episode 268

This episode, we conclude the Summer of Optimus Prime with a look into the furthest reaches of Optimus's past! From the pages of the Binder of Revelation and the Covenant of Primus, this is the legend of the forgotten member of Cybertron's ancient pantheon... these are The Basics on the THIRTEENTH PRIME!

S1 · E269 · Oct 18, 2025

SIMON FURMAN Episode 269

From Marvel to Dreamwave to IDW and beyond, Generation 1 to Beast Wars to the live-action films and more, this is the Transformers journey of the most prolific writer to ever work on the franchise, responsible for moulding and shaping it like almost no other, SIMON FURMAN!

S1 · E270 · Nov 1, 2025

RUNABOUT and RUNAMUCK Episode 270

BATTLECHARGERS, the hard-charging, fast-changing Decepticon hoodlums whose idea of a good time is blowing something up! It's The Basics on Transformers' own Beavis and Butthead, RUNABOUT and RUNAMUCK!

S1 · E271 · Nov 15, 2025

SPIKE WITWICKY Episode 271

This long-overdue look at the Autobots' original human ally! From oil rig worker to interplanetary diplomat to Headmaster partner of Fortress Maximus, these are The Basics on SPIKE WITWICKY! Plus: Witwickies across the continuities, from Marvel's BUSTER, to the Shia LaBeouf's SAM!

S1 · E272 · Nov 29, 2025

RUMBLE and FRENZY Episode 272

The twin Decepticon cassettes whose ever-changing colours are the source of one of fandom's oldest arguments: FIRRIB vs FIBRIR! It's The Basics on RUMBLE and FRENZY!

S1 · E273 · Dec 6, 2025

IRONFIST Episode 273

Obscure Characters Month 2025 begins with the Autobot weapons expert who's as much of a big ol' dork about Transformers as you or me! From little-known beginnings as a European-exclusive "Lightformer" figure to becoming a cult-favourite thanks to his turn as the tragic hero of IDW Publishing's "Last Stand of the Wreckers," these are The Basics on "Fisitron".... aka IRONFIST!

S1 · E274 · Dec 13, 2025

FLATLINE Episode 274

Created for the pages of IDW's comics, now immortalized in plastic in this year's Age of the Primes toyline, Obscure Characters Month 2025 continues with The Basics on the Decepticons' malevolent medic, FLATLINE!

S1 · E275 · Dec 20, 2025

CARNIVAC Episode 275

the honourable Decepticon Pretender who learned what it means to be an Autobot! From Marvel to IDW, get ready for out-and-out Mayhem with The Basics on CARNIVAC!

S1 · E276 · Dec 27, 2025

DELTA MAGNUS Episode 276

From his "Diaclone" origins as "Powered Convoy" to his reinvention through the combined efforts of IDW Publishing and the "Masterpiece" toyline to his impending return in next year's "Missing Link," these are The Basics on DELTA MAGNUS!

S1 · E277 · Jan 24, 2026

BLUESTREAK Episode 277

A look at the 'bot behind one of the most famous "Transformers" urban legends! It's the motormouthed Autobot known as BLUESTREAK - so why isn't he BLUE?

S1 · E278 · Feb 7, 2026

MICRONUS PRIME Episode 278

S1 · E279 · Feb 21, 2026

VELOCITRON Episode 279

Rev up those engines for a look at The Basics on the Transformer colony world where more haste means more speed!

S1 · E280 · Mar 7, 2026

BIG CONVOY Episode 280

We return to the Japanese side of the world of "Beast Wars" to look at the Maximal mammoth who's so powerful, he's known as the One-Man Army! These are The Basics on BIG CONVOY!

S1 · E281 · Mar 21, 2026

RAMPAGE Episode 281

S1 · E282 · Apr 4, 2026

TECHONORGANICS Episode 282

S1 · E283 · Apr 18, 2026

SWOOP Episode 283

Looking at another one of those prehistoric powerhouses, the Dinobots! He's been known by a few names in his time, including Strafe and Ptero... but we know him best as SWOOP - the terrifying pterosaur who's second only to team leader Grimlock as the most distinctive and memorable member of the team!

S1 · E284 · May 2, 2026

APEX ARMOR Episode 284

Suit up for The Basics on one of the mightiest weapons on Cybertron! From its conceptual origins in "Super-God Masterforce" with Godbomber and God Ginrai to it's television debut in "Transformers: Prime," learn the history of the power-enhancing battlesuit known as the APEX ARMOR!

S1 · E285 · May 23, 2026

POWERGLIDE Episode 285

And AWAAAY we go, with The Basics on the Autobots' stunt-flying showman, POWERGLIDE, from his iconic cartoon spotlight with the girl who loved him, to his struggle for relevance in the 21st century! From Universe to the Bayverse, from Mini-Bot to Aerialbot, and more - plus, the surprising double-life of Astoria Carlton-Ritz!

S1 · E286 · Nov 27, 2021

BRAWL Episode 286

It's time to spotlight one of the team's members who's been lucky enough to enjoy some solo adventures of his own! These are The Basics on the bellicose 'bot called BRAWL!