Transformers # 28 Cover A First Printing 2026 BN

Transformers #28, published by Image Comics and Skybound on January 14, 2026, is a major issue in the Energon Universe that features the permanent death of a classic character and a significant rank change within the Autobots. Written by Robert Kirkman with art by Dan Mora, this issue shifts the series toward a darker, more violent tone as Megatron returns to active, brutal leadership. 

Plot and Character Shifts

The issue focuses on shifting leadership and the increasing brutality of the war on Earth.

• The Rise of Arcee Magnus: Following the events of issue #27, Arcee undergoes a "mental trial" to become a Magnus after Ultra Magnus steps down due to PTSD. She receives a "bulkier and heavier" redesign to reflect her new status as the primary Magnus of the Autobots.
• Megatron's Devolved State: Megatron opens the issue in a state of unstable rage, experiencing hallucinations and attacking his own allies, the Constructicons. By the end of the issue, he moves into "full arch-villain mode," discarding all previous restraint.
• The Death of Trailbreaker: In one of the most violent scenes in the series' history, Megatron ambushes Trailbreaker in a forest, rips his body in half, and consumes his spark energy. Reviewers from ComicBook.beer and Comical Opinions described this as a permanent and "unflinching" death.
• Thundercracker and Soundwave: The newly defected Autobot Thundercracker visits a captive Soundwave, warning him that the Decepticons' cruelty will eventually turn on Soundwave as well. 

Energon Universe Expansion

This issue integrates other classic Hasbro properties more deeply into the narrative.

• M.A.S.K. Integration: The character Miles Mayhem escapes from General Flagg’s custody using a transforming "Viper" armor suit and a helicopter that converts into a jet, directly referencing the 1980s M.A.S.K. series.
• General Flagg: Following Mayhem's escape, General Flagg requests that someone contact Matt Trakker, further teasing a M.A.S.K. spin-off or expanded role.