Powermasters (Transformers)

Powermasters were a subline of the Transformers toyline. Their main gimmick was a Nebulan partner who "unlocked the secret of the transformation". In other words, the toy could not transform from vehicle mode to robot mode unless the Nebulan was installed in place, usually on top of the vehicle's engine. The first Powermasters appeared in the year 1987. There were no Powermasters after that year.

Powermaster toys

The Powermasters subline included the following toys:

  • Autobots:
    • Optimus Prime (trailer truck) with partner Hi Q (spelling varies)
    • Getaway (rally racing car) with partner Rev
    • Joyride (dune buggy) with partner Hotwire
    • Slapdash (Formula racing car) with partner Lube
  • Decepticons:
    • Darkwing (jet aeroplane) with partner Throttle
    • Dreadwind (jet aeroplane) with partner Hi-Test
    • Doubledealer (missile carrier truck) with partners Knok (unlocks transformation to robot) and Skar (unlocks transformation to falcon)

Powermaster history

  • Marvel comic version: The Powermasters were originally Transformers who arrived on Nebulos after the Headmasters and Targetmasters. The Nebulans tried to PReVENT the Transformers from destroying their world by poisoning their fuel. The Autobots demonstrated honourable intentions, so the Nebulans agreed to save their life by binary-bonding with them. The Decepticons struck a similar deal with two Nebulan criminals.
  • TV cartoon versions:
    • American: The Powermasters never appeared in the American cartoon.
    • Japanese: (to be added)