After 46 Years, The Strongest Transformer Of All Time Finally Debuts

Published Nov 13, 2026, 5:00 PM EST

The everlasting war between the alien machines didn’t just affect them. People on Earth were injured, unhoused, and killed by being caught in the middle of their battle. In Transformers No. 24, the Decepticons took a major loss to their rivals. They tried to fight them again in issue No. 29, but ended up retreating before Optimus Prime and his team could finish them off.

The results of that battle had lasting repercussions on both sides. Optimus relinquished his title of Prime to Elita One. On the villains’ side, Megatron was trapped inside a crystallized cocoon until he submitted to Megatronus. While Optimus has yet to adjust to no longer being as powerful as he once was, Megatron has returned, and he’s stronger and more determined than ever.

Megatron's Newest Form Is Terrifying And Glorious

During the 2026 New York Comic-Con, it was announced that Megatron would return as something bigger and better, and he’d be called Megatronus Rex. The design showed more weapons, but that was a given. A Transformer doesn’t get an upgrade without getting bigger guns. However, Transformers No. 39 showed that giant guns were only part of the improvement. Megatron was no longer just a laser pistol to be aimed by Starscream. He could turn into a tank that was big enough to destroy the mountain housing the Autobots.

Megatronus Rex and the Decepticons didn’t waste any time attacking their enemies. At first, it seemed like the Megatronus Rex may have changed. Instead, he’s the same ruthless, uncaring evildoer as always. So much so that as Soundwave went to attack Optimus, he backhanded his second-in-command hard enough to send him flying (more on that later).

Megatronus Rex showed readers that he was the new big dog in the yard, but he wasn’t done. He had one more trick to reveal before the final page, and it was huge. He transformed into a railgun big enough for Devestator to hold. He officially became the biggest gun in the game, and there may not be any way to stop him. However, there is a chance of survival.

Is Coming From Cybertron And An Unsuspecting Ally?

During Transformers No. 38, Elita Prime understood why Optimus wanted to stay on Earth. This realization made her agree to Jazz’s idea about sending help and Energon to Earth to assist with the former Autobots’ battle. If the timing works out, Jazz and others could return to help save their teammates before Megatronus Rex and the Decepticons end them. It may not be enough to win the battle, but enough for a tactical retreat.

Along with the Autobots, don’t be shocked if Soundwave helps his enemies. He was captured by his rivals, but shown mercy when he wouldn't have. There was also a moment when the former Decepticon, Firecracker, told Soundwave that one day he'll understand why he switched sides. That day may have come.

After being Megatron's most loyal soldier for eons, getting attacked by him in his new form must have been a slap in the face to Soundwave (pun intended). It could be the moment of clarity he needed to see his leader for who he truly is. Megatron has always been selfish, reckless, and willing to hurt his own people if it means survival. Meanwhile, Optimus has given up parts of himself to ensure the safety of the Autobots.

If Soundwave helps, it would be one of the more shocking moments in Image Comics' Transformers lore. Considering that the Energon Universe has continued to shake things up, it wouldn't be surprising to see a classic villain help his enemies in one final and brave act. The word final is used because there's no way Soundwave survives after betraying Megatronus Rex.