Tankor
Encyclopedia
Tankor is the name of several fictional characters from the various Transformers universes
.
among Decepticons with vehicle modes. He is characterized as a mean-spirited bully, who takes delight in seeing others suffer. In jet mode, he is said to make other planes (even other Decepticons) crash-land for fun. Being one of the three Decepticon Triple Changer
s, Octane can transform between a robot
mode and two vehicle
modes: a tanker truck and a Boeing 767
jet
.
In the Marvel
U.S. Generation 1 series, Octane debuted along with Astrotrain and Blitzwing, serving as workers in Ratbat
's new "Wash'n'Roll" project. Unfortunately, the spaceship
that had brought the parts of Wash'n'Roll from Cybertron
to Earth
was infected by Scraplets
. The infection spread to the Triple Changers and almost killed them, but Goldbug and his human friend Charlie Fong saved them along with the infected Autobots. After participating in the attack on the Autobots to recover captive Decepticons, Octane was amongst those Decepticons on the front-line of offensive against invaders believed to be the Autobots in the Arctic
(in reality it was Scorponok
's faction of Decepticons) and was present during the meeting between Ratbat and Scorponok. Octane was responsible for being the Decepticon that informed Ratbat, that Scorponok's troops were attacking their base caused by the secret of the Underbase being revealed in error. As he rushed into battle with the rest of his fellow warriors, Octane was seen to be attacking the Terrorcon
Rippersnapper. After the battle, Octane was amongst those Decepticons carrying their fallen comrades back to the base to be repaired he was pushing the remains of Tantrum within a wheeled trolley
. Then after the Autobots had attacked, he deactivated Mirage
. Later, once the Underbase-powered Starscream had begun attacking the cities of Earth, Octane was deactivated by Starscream and was not seen again in the rest of the comics run. He did put in a further appearance in an alternate universe as part of Galvatron
's forces in a nightmare alternate universe where Unicron had destroyed Cybertron, and Galvatron and the Decepticons ruled Earth. Although not explicit, a dead Transformer with a similar appearance to Octane appears in issue 10 of the Transformers: Generation 2 series amidst a pile of Decepticon corpses on the Warworld following a raid by a boarding party of Jhiaxus
's troops, led by Starscream. Octane's first appearance in the Marvel U.K. comic was in the Target 2006 story arc. He, along with the other Triple Changers, the three Insecticons
, and Dirge
, Thrust
, Ramjet
and Macabre, are the Decepticons' most feared killers and have to be taken out before a major Autobot uprising can take place. Megatron inadvertently scuppered the plan by summoning the Insecticons to Earth. Octane also appeared in issue #99, where he was a guard for Straxus
, who had been reduced to a disembodied head after his battle with Blaster
. Things changed when a teleportation mishap delivered both Megatron and Optimus Prime
to Cybertron. Megatron quickly linked up with Straxus, and sent Octane to hunt down the escaped Prime while spreading misinformation that he was a failed Decepticon spy. When the Wreckers realized that it was the real Prime and teamed up with him, Octane delivered this news to Megatron and Straxus, exaggerating his own role in the events to curry favor with the Decepticon leaders. He appeared again much later in the story "Maneuvers." Octane was tired of constant work, stealing fuel for the Decepticons and wanted to have some fun by himself. To amuse himself, he chased the Autobot Jazz
for miles who led Octane into a U.S. Army testing range, knowing full well he was full of fuel and would explode if hit. Octane called for help from his fellow Triple Changers, Blitzwing and Astrotrain, who managed to protect Octane for a while but were getting damaged themselves because of it. A forced confession from the terrified Octane to Blitzwing led to him and Astrotrain leaving Octane alone to deal with the Army. It is unclear whether this story is supposed to be set in the period where Ratbat
was leading the Decepticons or the Earthforce stories surrounding it.
The Triple Changers would appear again in Dreamwave's reinterpretation of the Generation One universe — this time with a greatly expanded origin. Octane originally appeared as part of Shockwave's assault force attacking Iacon, and would later join Starscream
's Predacon faction during the period following the disappearance of Megatron. During the civil war on Cybertron, Shockwave envisioned a Transformer with multiple alternate modes, studying Astrotrain and Blitzwing. However, the Great Shutdown meant his plans could go no further — until Unicron
's servant Scourge
located Cybertron and reactivated Shockwave for study. Shockwave was attacked by Sharkticons, Scourge saved his life, only to be shot in the back by Shockwave. Shockwave then proceeded to examine and study Scourge, using the secrets gleaned to create first the Duocons
and then the Triple Changers — Astrotrain, Blitzwing, Octane and at least two others — appearing to be the Autobots Sandstorm
and Broadside. Interestingly, in the Micromasters
mini-series by Dreamwave, Blitzwing and Astrotrain are suffering from severe physical changes. As this is before the Great Shutdown this might imply that the change was a natural one rather than a result of experiments. The Triple-Changers later served as Shockwave's bodyguards, accompanying him to Earth to capture Optimus Prime
and Megatron's troops. However, with the Earthbound Transformers captive, things began to go wrong. Grimlock
had escaped and was intent on reactivating his fellow Dinobots
. Shockwave sent Octane to investigate, but the Dinobots jumped him, beheaded him and stole his shuttle.
In the third crossover between G.I. Joe
and the Transformers from Devil's Due Publishing
, Octane appeared as part of the Decepticon air attack on the Autobot Capital City, led by Sixshot
, but was driven off by Omega Supreme
. He was one of the Decepticons that tried to stop Optimus Prime from attacking Serpentor
, but was punched out by the Autobot leader.
After the Transformers license passed to IDW Publishing
, Octane appeared as one of the Decepticons under Starscream
's command in the alternate reality
Evolutions
tale "Hearts of Steel". He was seen quizzing Tobias Muldoon about the possibilities of flight. He did not appear after this, but he was most likely destroyed when John Henry
and Bumblebee
diverted the Decepticon train convoy into a chasm. He made his first appearance in the main G1 IDW continuity in issue #2 of The Transformers: Megatron Origin
, where a series of video broadcasts showing underground gladiator battles (being watched by Ratbat
) showed him battling alongside Slag and Megatron himself.
Octane appears among Megatron's troops in the story At Fight's End by Fun Publications
.
, though he is not seen in the feature. Octane first appears in "Five Faces of Darkness (Part 1)" where it is presumed that he is among the Decepticons exiled from Cybertron during the movie. His eventual alliance with Starscream, in which the two refer to each other as old friends, further implies Octane's status as having originally served under Megatron.
In the episode "Thief in the Night", Octane deserted the Decepticons and fled to Carbombya and there he discovered Trypticon
. The city-sized Decepticon had been knocked into the ocean after his last battle with Metroplex
. Repairing him, Octane used Trypticon as a bargaining chip, securing enough oil to convert to energon for himself, attacking Carbombya's enemies in return. When Trypticon's energon consumption spiraled out of control, Octane was forced to blow his cover by sending him to steal various world monuments. This alerted Autobot leader Rodimus Prime, who was able to foil his scheme. Even more worryingly for Octane, it attracted the attention of his former leader Galvatron
, who put a price on his head for his treachery.
During his desertion, Octane collaborated with the Autobot
Triple Changer Sandstorm
to avoid getting captured. The two unlikely allies would end up dodging both Galvatron's troops and hired bounty hunter
s on Octane's trail. Sandstorm would help him escape to Cybertron.
His respite did not last long. In the episode "Starscream's Ghost", Octane fled into the Decepticon crypt, pursued by Cyclonus
, Scourge
and the Sweeps
. About to be caught and executed, the Triple Changer received help from an unlikely source — the ghost of Starscream
, who had been killed by Galvatron in The Transformers: The Movie
. Possessing Cyclonus, Starscream allowed Octane to escape, and the two formed a deal to get rid of Galvatron and take over. The scheme failed, as Galvatron fought his way out of their trap and sent the duo fleeing once more. In the episode's follow-up "Ghost in the Machine", Starscream also possesses other Decepticons, but not Octane himself. When Starscream is finally defeated, Octane returns to the Decepticon ranks.
According to officials who worked on the series the storylines spotlighting Octane in the end of season 3 were originally written for Blitzwing, which is hinted at in Blitzwing's first estrangement from the Decepticons in the beginning of the season. Hasbro requested that the change the main character of these episodes to Octane because the Blitzwing toy, being released a year before Octane, was no longer sold in stores, and they wanted to instead promote a toy that they could sell.
and ruled Cybertron themselves. Unicron, impressed by their ruthlessness, abducted them from their own dimension. Impressed in turn by Unicron's massive power, the two agreed and became his servants.
This Tankor more closely resembled the Tankor toy than the CGI Tankor. He has massive firepower and durability, but he still relies on Obsidian as the brains of their partnership. In the final battle between Unicron's Army and The Children of Primus, Tankor was bested by a surprising foe - Rhinox
, resurrected by Optimus Primal
as his lieutenant, giving Rhinox a chance to face his darkest demon: himself as Tankor.
Autobot who turned into a locomotive, and was part of a U.S. release of the Japanese Sixliner team. He has not appeared in any official fiction.
According to Atlan's Tech Spec: "A martial artist with a supreme love of karate, Alan’s hobby is hardening his body. He enjoys special training and never forgets to drill. The intensity of his paired training with Ironlift fascinates all who see it, drawing them in and not letting them go. The strength of Sixtrain's punching power can only be due to his combining with the team."
According to the story with Sixtrain Red Mode, the Sixtrain turns red and becomes more powerful when empowered by a piece of the Maxtix.
. Neither has appeared in any official fiction.
After the Unicron Battles, many Mini-Con choose to remain on Earth in hiding and separate from the ongoing conflict between the Autobots and Decepticons. Tankor, with other Mini-Cons, hid among the armed forces of Earth so that they could protect the humans from Shockwave and the Sky Attack Team. The desire to protect human life is nearly an obsession for Tankor; he exists solely to prevent the damage inflicted by Shockwave and his aerial companions. The return of the Transformers to Earth has forced them once again to take sides in a larger conflict.
Transformers universes
is an entertainment franchise. It began with the Hasbro Transformers toy line, centered on two factions of warring alien robots which are called the Autobots and the Decepticons...
.
Transformers: Generation 1
This version of Tankor, initially called Octane, is the Decepticons' fueler, in charge of storing and distributing fuelFuel
Fuel is any material that stores energy that can later be extracted to perform mechanical work in a controlled manner. Most fuels used by humans undergo combustion, a redox reaction in which a combustible substance releases energy after it ignites and reacts with the oxygen in the air...
among Decepticons with vehicle modes. He is characterized as a mean-spirited bully, who takes delight in seeing others suffer. In jet mode, he is said to make other planes (even other Decepticons) crash-land for fun. Being one of the three Decepticon Triple Changer
Triple Changer
Triple Changers are Transformers that can transform from robot into two different alternative modes.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
s, Octane can transform between a robot
Robot
A robot is a mechanical or virtual intelligent agent that can perform tasks automatically or with guidance, typically by remote control. In practice a robot is usually an electro-mechanical machine that is guided by computer and electronic programming. Robots can be autonomous, semi-autonomous or...
mode and two vehicle
Vehicle
A vehicle is a device that is designed or used to transport people or cargo. Most often vehicles are manufactured, such as bicycles, cars, motorcycles, trains, ships, boats, and aircraft....
modes: a tanker truck and a Boeing 767
Boeing 767
The Boeing 767 is a mid-size, wide-body twin-engine jet airliner built by Boeing Commercial Airplanes. It was the manufacturer's first wide-body twinjet and its first airliner with a two-crew glass cockpit. The aircraft features two turbofan engines, a supercritical wing, and a conventional tail...
jet
Fixed-wing aircraft
A fixed-wing aircraft is an aircraft capable of flight using wings that generate lift due to the vehicle's forward airspeed. Fixed-wing aircraft are distinct from rotary-wing aircraft in which wings rotate about a fixed mast and ornithopters in which lift is generated by flapping wings.A powered...
.
Comic appearances
Marvel Comics
Marvel Worldwide, Inc., commonly referred to as Marvel Comics and formerly Marvel Publishing, Inc. and Marvel Comics Group, is an American company that publishes comic books and related media...
U.S. Generation 1 series, Octane debuted along with Astrotrain and Blitzwing, serving as workers in Ratbat
Ratbat
Ratbat is the name of several fictional characters who appeared in various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:As is the case with many Transformers characters, the various continuities in which Ratbat has appeared have portrayed him widely differently in terms of size, personality,...
's new "Wash'n'Roll" project. Unfortunately, the spaceship
Starship
A starship or interstellar spacecraft is a theoretical spacecraft designed for traveling between the stars, as opposed to a vehicle designed for orbital spaceflight or interplanetary travel....
that had brought the parts of Wash'n'Roll from Cybertron
Cybertron
Cybertron is a fictional planet, the homeworld of the Transformers in the various fictional incarnations of the metaseries and toyline by Hasbro. In the Japanese series, the planet is referred to as "Cybertron" pronounced as セイバートロン Seibātoron...
to Earth
Earth
Earth is the third planet from the Sun, and the densest and fifth-largest of the eight planets in the Solar System. It is also the largest of the Solar System's four terrestrial planets...
was infected by Scraplets
Scraplets
Scraplets are fictional characters, an alien race in Marvel's Transformers comics.-Marvel Comics:Scraplets are robotic parasites. They are semi-sentient robotic lifeforms, generally about five centimetres tall...
. The infection spread to the Triple Changers and almost killed them, but Goldbug and his human friend Charlie Fong saved them along with the infected Autobots. After participating in the attack on the Autobots to recover captive Decepticons, Octane was amongst those Decepticons on the front-line of offensive against invaders believed to be the Autobots in the Arctic
Arctic
The Arctic is a region located at the northern-most part of the Earth. The Arctic consists of the Arctic Ocean and parts of Canada, Russia, Greenland, the United States, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland. The Arctic region consists of a vast, ice-covered ocean, surrounded by treeless permafrost...
(in reality it was Scorponok
Scorponok
Scorponok is the name shared by several fictional characters in the various Transformers universes. All are Decepticons that turn into Scorpoins.- Transformers: Generation 1:...
's faction of Decepticons) and was present during the meeting between Ratbat and Scorponok. Octane was responsible for being the Decepticon that informed Ratbat, that Scorponok's troops were attacking their base caused by the secret of the Underbase being revealed in error. As he rushed into battle with the rest of his fellow warriors, Octane was seen to be attacking the Terrorcon
Terrorcon
The name Terrorcons refers to several different groups in the Transformers toyline. They are referred to as Terrortrons in Japan.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
Rippersnapper. After the battle, Octane was amongst those Decepticons carrying their fallen comrades back to the base to be repaired he was pushing the remains of Tantrum within a wheeled trolley
Cart
A cart is a vehicle designed for transport, using two wheels and normally pulled by one or a pair of draught animals. A handcart is pulled or pushed by one or more people...
. Then after the Autobots had attacked, he deactivated Mirage
Mirage (Transformers)
Mirage is any of several distinct fictional characters in the various Transformers series. Mirage is one of the single most re-used names in the Transformers series, and is almost entirely synonymous with characters possessing Formula One racing car alternate modes.-Transformers Generation 1:Some...
. Later, once the Underbase-powered Starscream had begun attacking the cities of Earth, Octane was deactivated by Starscream and was not seen again in the rest of the comics run. He did put in a further appearance in an alternate universe as part of Galvatron
Galvatron
Galvatron is the name of several fictional Transformers, most often the recreated version of Megatron, the Decepticon leader. He was voiced by Leonard Nimoy in the 1986 Transformers movie, and then by Frank Welker in season 3 and 4 of the animated television series. Since then, other Transformers...
's forces in a nightmare alternate universe where Unicron had destroyed Cybertron, and Galvatron and the Decepticons ruled Earth. Although not explicit, a dead Transformer with a similar appearance to Octane appears in issue 10 of the Transformers: Generation 2 series amidst a pile of Decepticon corpses on the Warworld following a raid by a boarding party of Jhiaxus
Jhiaxus
Jhiaxus is a fictional character in the Transformers universes. He is an evil Decepticon jet.-Transformers: Generation 2:Unlike most of the notable characters in the Transformers comics, Jhiaxus is not based on a toy...
's troops, led by Starscream. Octane's first appearance in the Marvel U.K. comic was in the Target 2006 story arc. He, along with the other Triple Changers, the three Insecticons
Insecticons
Insecticons is the name given to a sub-group of fictional characters in the Transformers Universes, referred to as Insectrons in the Japanese version. The name was also used for several fictional characters in the Transformers Universes...
, and Dirge
Dirge (Transformers)
Dirge is the name of several different fictional characters from the Transformers series. He was first introduced in 1985 as a villain in the Transformers series, appearing in the comic book by Marvel Comics and voiced by Bud Davis in the animated television series. Since then the name Dirge was...
, Thrust
Thrust (Transformers)
Thrust is the name of several fictional characters in the various Transformers universes. The original character was an evil red Decepticon jet, with most of the following character using the name Thrust being a variation on that concept...
, Ramjet
Ramjet (Transformers)
Ramjet is the name of several fictional characters in the various Transformers universes. All have been Decepticon aligned characters who turn into jets, usually white.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
and Macabre, are the Decepticons' most feared killers and have to be taken out before a major Autobot uprising can take place. Megatron inadvertently scuppered the plan by summoning the Insecticons to Earth. Octane also appeared in issue #99, where he was a guard for Straxus
Straxus
Lord Straxus is a fictional character from the Transformers series. A toy based on his Marvel comic appearance was released in 2010 under the name Darkmount.-Marvel Comics:Straxus was the Decepticon governor of a province of Cybertron known as Polyhex...
, who had been reduced to a disembodied head after his battle with Blaster
Blaster (Transformers)
Blaster is the name of several fictional characters in the Transformers television and comic series based on the popular toy line produced by Takara Tomy and Hasbro. Due to trademark reasons, he is sometimes called Autobot Blaster...
. Things changed when a teleportation mishap delivered both Megatron and Optimus Prime
Optimus Prime
Optimus Prime is a fictional character from the Transformers franchise. Prime is the leader of the autobots, a faction of transforming robots from the planet Cybertron. The autobots are constantly waging war against a rival faction of transforming robots called Decepticons...
to Cybertron. Megatron quickly linked up with Straxus, and sent Octane to hunt down the escaped Prime while spreading misinformation that he was a failed Decepticon spy. When the Wreckers realized that it was the real Prime and teamed up with him, Octane delivered this news to Megatron and Straxus, exaggerating his own role in the events to curry favor with the Decepticon leaders. He appeared again much later in the story "Maneuvers." Octane was tired of constant work, stealing fuel for the Decepticons and wanted to have some fun by himself. To amuse himself, he chased the Autobot Jazz
Jazz (Transformers)
Jazz is the name of a fictional character from the various Transformers universes. He is usually portrayed as a music loving robot and talks with a slang accent. He is also a good friend of Optimus Prime's...
for miles who led Octane into a U.S. Army testing range, knowing full well he was full of fuel and would explode if hit. Octane called for help from his fellow Triple Changers, Blitzwing and Astrotrain, who managed to protect Octane for a while but were getting damaged themselves because of it. A forced confession from the terrified Octane to Blitzwing led to him and Astrotrain leaving Octane alone to deal with the Army. It is unclear whether this story is supposed to be set in the period where Ratbat
Ratbat
Ratbat is the name of several fictional characters who appeared in various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:As is the case with many Transformers characters, the various continuities in which Ratbat has appeared have portrayed him widely differently in terms of size, personality,...
was leading the Decepticons or the Earthforce stories surrounding it.
The Triple Changers would appear again in Dreamwave's reinterpretation of the Generation One universe — this time with a greatly expanded origin. Octane originally appeared as part of Shockwave's assault force attacking Iacon, and would later join Starscream
Starscream (Transformers)
Starscream is a fictional character in the Transformers franchise. He is one of the most prolific characters in the Transformers fictional work, appearing in almost all incarnations of the story. Starscream is usually portrayed with the same characterization...
's Predacon faction during the period following the disappearance of Megatron. During the civil war on Cybertron, Shockwave envisioned a Transformer with multiple alternate modes, studying Astrotrain and Blitzwing. However, the Great Shutdown meant his plans could go no further — until Unicron
Unicron
Unicron is a fictional character from the Transformers universe and toyline. Created by Floro Dery, he was introduced in the 1986 animated film The Transformers: The Movie as the film's main antagonist. Unicron is a prodigiously large robot whose scale reaches planetary proportions, and he is also...
's servant Scourge
Scourge (Transformers)
Scourge is the name of several fictional characters from the Transformers series. He first appeared as one of the central villains in the 1986 film The Transformers, voiced by Stan Jones. He also regularly appeared in the animated Transformers series and Transformers comic books. Since then other...
located Cybertron and reactivated Shockwave for study. Shockwave was attacked by Sharkticons, Scourge saved his life, only to be shot in the back by Shockwave. Shockwave then proceeded to examine and study Scourge, using the secrets gleaned to create first the Duocons
Duocons
The Duocons are a sub-group of Decepticons from the fictional Transformers universe.-Profiles:The Duocons sub-group is particularly small, consisting of only two members, Battletrap and Flywheels...
and then the Triple Changers — Astrotrain, Blitzwing, Octane and at least two others — appearing to be the Autobots Sandstorm
Sandstorm (Transformers)
Sandstorm refers to several different characters in the various Transformers universes. The original Sandstorm was an Autobot Triple Changer who appeared in the Transformers animated series, voiced by Jerry Houser in 1986...
and Broadside. Interestingly, in the Micromasters
Micromasters
Micromasters is a Transformers subline composed of small figures that came packaged in groups and with bases that interacted with the figures. They were sold at the peak of Galoob's Micro Machines craze and were packaged in groups of four just like Micro Machines...
mini-series by Dreamwave, Blitzwing and Astrotrain are suffering from severe physical changes. As this is before the Great Shutdown this might imply that the change was a natural one rather than a result of experiments. The Triple-Changers later served as Shockwave's bodyguards, accompanying him to Earth to capture Optimus Prime
Optimus Prime
Optimus Prime is a fictional character from the Transformers franchise. Prime is the leader of the autobots, a faction of transforming robots from the planet Cybertron. The autobots are constantly waging war against a rival faction of transforming robots called Decepticons...
and Megatron's troops. However, with the Earthbound Transformers captive, things began to go wrong. Grimlock
Grimlock
Grimlock is the name of several fictional characters in the Transformers universes. He is usually portrayed as a tough leader who turns into a mechanical dinosaur...
had escaped and was intent on reactivating his fellow Dinobots
Dinobots
Dinobots is the name of several teams of characters in the fictional Transformers Universe. The groups are made up of several robots, each of whose transformed mode is that of a dinosaur or similar prehistoric animal. They are called Dinotrons in the Japanese version; and ' in the Japanese dub of...
. Shockwave sent Octane to investigate, but the Dinobots jumped him, beheaded him and stole his shuttle.
In the third crossover between G.I. Joe
G.I. Joe
G.I. Joe is a line of action figures produced by the toy company Hasbro. The initial product offering represented four of the branches of the U.S. armed forces with the Action Soldier , Action Sailor , Action Pilot , Action Marine and later on, the Action Nurse...
and the Transformers from Devil's Due Publishing
Devil's Due Publishing
Devil's Due Publishing is an independent comic book publishers in the United States. Based in Chicago, Illinois, DDP is best known for its wide selection of genres, including licensed and original creator-owned properties that populate its monthly comic book series and graphic novels.Though...
, Octane appeared as part of the Decepticon air attack on the Autobot Capital City, led by Sixshot
Sixshot
Sixshot is the name of two fictional characters from the various Transformers series. Introduced in 1987, Sixshot appeared in the last few episodes of the original US Transformers animated series, voiced by Neil Ross. His defining gimmick was that he had six different forms, not two like a normal...
, but was driven off by Omega Supreme
Omega Supreme
Omega Supreme is the name of a fictional character from the Transformers franchise. He is always an Autobot and is often depicted as a gigantic transformer with vast strength and/or overwhelming firepower.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
. He was one of the Decepticons that tried to stop Optimus Prime from attacking Serpentor
Serpentor
Serpentor is a fictional character from G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero, a line of military-themed toys created by Hasbro. The character was introduced in 1986 as a toy with an air chariot and included in the animated series that same year.-Toys:...
, but was punched out by the Autobot leader.
After the Transformers license passed to IDW Publishing
IDW Publishing
IDW Publishing, also known as Idea + Design Works, LLC and IDW, is an American publisher of comic books and comic strip collections. The company was founded in 1999 and has been awarded the title "Publisher of the Year Under 5% Market Share" for the years 2004, 2005 and 2006 by Diamond Comic...
, Octane appeared as one of the Decepticons under Starscream
Starscream (Transformers)
Starscream is a fictional character in the Transformers franchise. He is one of the most prolific characters in the Transformers fictional work, appearing in almost all incarnations of the story. Starscream is usually portrayed with the same characterization...
's command in the alternate reality
Parallel universe (fiction)
A parallel universe or alternative reality is a hypothetical self-contained separate reality coexisting with one's own. A specific group of parallel universes is called a "multiverse", although this term can also be used to describe the possible parallel universes that constitute reality...
Evolutions
The Transformers: Evolutions
The Transformers: Evolutions is the title of what was intended to be several comic book miniseries published by IDW Publishing, following the same idea of DC Comics' Elseworlds series. Each series was to create an alternative reality: a continuity in a different time era during which the...
tale "Hearts of Steel". He was seen quizzing Tobias Muldoon about the possibilities of flight. He did not appear after this, but he was most likely destroyed when John Henry
John Henry (folklore)
John Henry is an American folk hero and tall tale. Henry worked as a "steel-driver"—a man tasked with hammering and chiseling rock in the construction of tunnels for railroad tracks. In the legend, John Henry's prowess as a steel-driver was measured in a race against a steam powered hammer,...
and Bumblebee
Bumblebee (Transformers)
Bumblebee is the name of several fictional characters from the various Transformers universes. In most incarnations, Bumblebee is a small, yellow Autobot with the altmode of a compact car.- Transformers: Generation 1 :...
diverted the Decepticon train convoy into a chasm. He made his first appearance in the main G1 IDW continuity in issue #2 of The Transformers: Megatron Origin
The Transformers: Megatron Origin
The Transformers: Megatron Origin is a comic book limited series by IDW Publishing exploring the origin of Megatron in its rebooted G1 universe...
, where a series of video broadcasts showing underground gladiator battles (being watched by Ratbat
Ratbat
Ratbat is the name of several fictional characters who appeared in various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:As is the case with many Transformers characters, the various continuities in which Ratbat has appeared have portrayed him widely differently in terms of size, personality,...
) showed him battling alongside Slag and Megatron himself.
Octane appears among Megatron's troops in the story At Fight's End by Fun Publications
Fun Publications
Fun Publications is a publishing company that runs the Transformers Collectors Club and G.I. Joe Collectors Club under licensefrom Hasbro. Besides releasing comics, Fun Publications releases exclusive toys and runs conventions for their clubs....
.
Animated series
In the original Generation 1 cartoon, Octane only appeared in the third season. It is implied, however, that he existed in the Decepticon ranks during and even prior to The Transformers: The MovieThe Transformers: The Movie
The Transformers: The Movie is a 1986 animated feature film based on the animated series of the same name. It was released in North America on August 8, 1986 and in the UK on December 5, 1986....
, though he is not seen in the feature. Octane first appears in "Five Faces of Darkness (Part 1)" where it is presumed that he is among the Decepticons exiled from Cybertron during the movie. His eventual alliance with Starscream, in which the two refer to each other as old friends, further implies Octane's status as having originally served under Megatron.
In the episode "Thief in the Night", Octane deserted the Decepticons and fled to Carbombya and there he discovered Trypticon
Trypticon
Trypticon is a fictional character in the Transformers toyline.-Transformers: Generation 1:Trypticon is the Decepticons' principal command base. He has three modes: a city, a mobile battle station, and a Tyrannosaurus rex. In each mode, he has a variety of weapons...
. The city-sized Decepticon had been knocked into the ocean after his last battle with Metroplex
Metroplex (Transformers)
Metroplex is the name of several fictional characters in the various Transformers series.-Transformers: Generation 1:Metroplex is capable of transforming into a battle station or a giant robot...
. Repairing him, Octane used Trypticon as a bargaining chip, securing enough oil to convert to energon for himself, attacking Carbombya's enemies in return. When Trypticon's energon consumption spiraled out of control, Octane was forced to blow his cover by sending him to steal various world monuments. This alerted Autobot leader Rodimus Prime, who was able to foil his scheme. Even more worryingly for Octane, it attracted the attention of his former leader Galvatron
Galvatron
Galvatron is the name of several fictional Transformers, most often the recreated version of Megatron, the Decepticon leader. He was voiced by Leonard Nimoy in the 1986 Transformers movie, and then by Frank Welker in season 3 and 4 of the animated television series. Since then, other Transformers...
, who put a price on his head for his treachery.
During his desertion, Octane collaborated with the Autobot
Autobot
Autobot, a faction of sentient robots from the planet Cybertron, are usually the main protagonists in the fictional universe of the Transformers, a collection of various toys, graphic novels, paperback books, cartoons and movies first introduced in 1984. In all but one Transformer story, the...
Triple Changer Sandstorm
Sandstorm (Transformers)
Sandstorm refers to several different characters in the various Transformers universes. The original Sandstorm was an Autobot Triple Changer who appeared in the Transformers animated series, voiced by Jerry Houser in 1986...
to avoid getting captured. The two unlikely allies would end up dodging both Galvatron's troops and hired bounty hunter
Bounty hunter
A bounty hunter captures fugitives for a monetary reward . Other names, mainly used in the United States, include bail enforcement agent and fugitive recovery agent.-Laws in the U.S.:...
s on Octane's trail. Sandstorm would help him escape to Cybertron.
His respite did not last long. In the episode "Starscream's Ghost", Octane fled into the Decepticon crypt, pursued by Cyclonus
Cyclonus
Cyclonus is the name of several fictional characters from the various Transformers universes.-Transformers: Generation 1:The tech spec from the box art of the Cyclonus toy describes him as a compassionless Decepticon air warrior and saboteur...
, Scourge
Scourge (Transformers)
Scourge is the name of several fictional characters from the Transformers series. He first appeared as one of the central villains in the 1986 film The Transformers, voiced by Stan Jones. He also regularly appeared in the animated Transformers series and Transformers comic books. Since then other...
and the Sweeps
Sweeps (Transformers)
The Sweeps are the names of several fictional characters in the various Transformers universes. They are often depicted as Heralds of Unicron.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
. About to be caught and executed, the Triple Changer received help from an unlikely source — the ghost of Starscream
Starscream (Transformers)
Starscream is a fictional character in the Transformers franchise. He is one of the most prolific characters in the Transformers fictional work, appearing in almost all incarnations of the story. Starscream is usually portrayed with the same characterization...
, who had been killed by Galvatron in The Transformers: The Movie
The Transformers: The Movie
The Transformers: The Movie is a 1986 animated feature film based on the animated series of the same name. It was released in North America on August 8, 1986 and in the UK on December 5, 1986....
. Possessing Cyclonus, Starscream allowed Octane to escape, and the two formed a deal to get rid of Galvatron and take over. The scheme failed, as Galvatron fought his way out of their trap and sent the duo fleeing once more. In the episode's follow-up "Ghost in the Machine", Starscream also possesses other Decepticons, but not Octane himself. When Starscream is finally defeated, Octane returns to the Decepticon ranks.
According to officials who worked on the series the storylines spotlighting Octane in the end of season 3 were originally written for Blitzwing, which is hinted at in Blitzwing's first estrangement from the Decepticons in the beginning of the season. Hasbro requested that the change the main character of these episodes to Octane because the Blitzwing toy, being released a year before Octane, was no longer sold in stores, and they wanted to instead promote a toy that they could sell.
Toys
- Generation 1 Triple Changer Octane (1986)
- Octane can transform from a robot to a longnose truck cab with fuel-tanker trailer of undetermined model, and also a Boeing 767 jet plane. The tailfin of the jet form separates to become a shield for robot mode.
- Universe Deluxe Tankor (2008)
- First announced at BotConBotConBotCon, briefly known as "The Official Transformers Collectors' Convention" , is an annual convention for Transformers fans and collectors. BotCon has been held annually since 1994...
2007, concept art for this toy was later seen at SDCC 2007, where it was named Octane. The toy is obviously a representation of Octane, although (possibly for copyright reasons) the toy will be named Tankor, despite this being the third toy released with that name under the Universe line.
- Henkei! Henkei! D-05 Deluxe Destron Octane (2008)
- The Japanese version of Universe Deluxe Tankor by Takara TomyTakara Tomyis a Japanese toy, children's merchandise and entertainment company created from the March 2006 merger of two companies: Tomy and long-time rival, Takara...
sports gray wheels instead of black and his gun is remolded in chrome silver.
- Beast Machines Happy Meal Tankor
- There was also a Happy MealHappy MealA "Happy Meal" is a meal specifically marketed at children, sold at the fast-food chain McDonald's since June 1979. A toy is typically included with the food, both of which are usually contained in a small box or paper bag with the McDonald's logo....
toy of Tankor available from McDonalds which resembled his appearance on the series. In some countries this figure was released in different colors.
- Beast Wars Returns Tankor
- In the series, Tankor and his Drones looked identical. In Japan, the Tank-Drone mold (repainted in more show accurate colors) was used to represent Tankor in the Beast Wars Returns toy line.
- Beast Wars Deluxe 10th Anniversary Rhinox (2006)
- In 2005 the original Rhinox toy was one of the toys selected for the Beast Wars 10th Anniversary toyline. He was repainted in more show-accurate colors. He came packaged with one of the six pieces used to make the TransmutateTransmutateTransmutate is the name of a fictional character from the various Transformers universes. She is a damaged, but powerful, Maximal protoform who befriends both the Maximal Silverbolt and his enemy the Predacon Rampage....
toy.
- Timelines Deluxe Rhinox (2006)
- A pre-Beast Wars Rhinox toy was made for BotConBotConBotCon, briefly known as "The Official Transformers Collectors' Convention" , is an annual convention for Transformers fans and collectors. BotCon has been held annually since 1994...
2006. The toy was a redeco of Transformers: Cybertron LandmineLandmine (Transformers)Landmine is the name to several fictional characters in the various Transformers universes. He shouldn't be confused with Lander.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
. A Maximal who knows much about his Autobot AncestorsAutobotAutobot, a faction of sentient robots from the planet Cybertron, are usually the main protagonists in the fictional universe of the Transformers, a collection of various toys, graphic novels, paperback books, cartoons and movies first introduced in 1984. In all but one Transformer story, the...
, Rhinox values the ideals they fought for and wears their sigil on his chest as a constant reminder of this. (Presumably BotCon forgot to remove the insignia)
Transformers: Universe (2003)
Tankor returned as a Decepticon in the ranks of Unicron’s army. According to his tech spec and appearances in the comic book series, this was a Tankor from a parallel universe were Tankor never recovered his memory and so was not killed. Apparently Jetstorm was restored as Silverbolt for there was also an Obsidian, but no Strika because Tankor was still active. Obsidian therefore made Tankor his new partner and together they overthrew MegatronMegatron (Beast Wars and Beast Machines)
The Beast Wars and Beast Machines version of Megatron is the main antagonist from the aforementioned parts of the Transformers animated series, toy lines, and multiverse...
and ruled Cybertron themselves. Unicron, impressed by their ruthlessness, abducted them from their own dimension. Impressed in turn by Unicron's massive power, the two agreed and became his servants.
This Tankor more closely resembled the Tankor toy than the CGI Tankor. He has massive firepower and durability, but he still relies on Obsidian as the brains of their partnership. In the final battle between Unicron's Army and The Children of Primus, Tankor was bested by a surprising foe - Rhinox
Rhinox
Rhinox is the name of three fictional characters from various Transformers universes.-Beast Wars:Rhinox's character in the Beast Wars television series is very different from how the toy was depicted. As one of the first year toys, the toy of Rhinox was created before the television series came...
, resurrected by Optimus Primal
Optimus Primal
Optimus Primal is a fictional character from the Transformers toyline, and the leader of the Maximal forces and the main protagonist in the Beast Wars television series. He is sometimes called Optimal Optimus...
as his lieutenant, giving Rhinox a chance to face his darkest demon: himself as Tankor.
Transformers: Universe (2005)
The name of Tankor was used again in Transformers: Universe as a MicromasterMicromasters
Micromasters is a Transformers subline composed of small figures that came packaged in groups and with bases that interacted with the figures. They were sold at the peak of Galoob's Micro Machines craze and were packaged in groups of four just like Micro Machines...
Autobot who turned into a locomotive, and was part of a U.S. release of the Japanese Sixliner team. He has not appeared in any official fiction.
According to Atlan's Tech Spec: "A martial artist with a supreme love of karate, Alan’s hobby is hardening his body. He enjoys special training and never forgets to drill. The intensity of his paired training with Ironlift fascinates all who see it, drawing them in and not letting them go. The strength of Sixtrain's punching power can only be due to his combining with the team."
According to the story with Sixtrain Red Mode, the Sixtrain turns red and becomes more powerful when empowered by a piece of the Maxtix.
Toys
- Generation 1 Micromaster Atlan (1992)
- This toy was a redeco of Alan. A Takara exclusive.
- Generation 1 Micromaster Atlan reissue (2003)
- Came with the thighs of Sixtrain.
- Generation 1 Micromaster Atlan red mode (2003)
- A red redeco of the toy. Came with the thighs of Sixtrain Red Mode.
- Universe Micromaster Tankor (2005)
- He is a repaint of the original Micromasters Alan and Altan. Tankor came with the head and rifle for Rail Racer.
- The Micromaster Railbots were released in Cybertron packaging in European countries, as they didn't have the Transformers: Universe line.
Transformers: Cybertron
The name was used yet again in the Transformers: Cybertron line as a Mini-Con aligned with the Autobots who turned into a tank. He was a repaint of the Mini-Con Wreckage. He came packaged with Cybertron ShockwaveShockwave (Transformers)
Shockwave is the name of several fictional characters in the various Transformers series. Throughout his incarnations, he is usually distinguished by a laser cannon in lieu of one of his hands and his distinctive face, which is featureless save a single robotic eye...
. Neither has appeared in any official fiction.
After the Unicron Battles, many Mini-Con choose to remain on Earth in hiding and separate from the ongoing conflict between the Autobots and Decepticons. Tankor, with other Mini-Cons, hid among the armed forces of Earth so that they could protect the humans from Shockwave and the Sky Attack Team. The desire to protect human life is nearly an obsession for Tankor; he exists solely to prevent the damage inflicted by Shockwave and his aerial companions. The return of the Transformers to Earth has forced them once again to take sides in a larger conflict.
Toys
- Cybertron Tankor (2005)
- Shockwave and Tankor were included with the Decepticon MudflapMudflap (Transformers)-Transformers: Cybertron:Mudflap transforms into a construction crane. In the Japanese version of the series; Transformers: Galaxy Force, the character is called Demolishor....
as a promotional item at Target Stores in 2006.
Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
Little is known about this Decepticon. His colors are a homage to Beast Machines Tankor.Titan Magazines
Tankor attacked the Alamo, and was countered by a team of Autobots including Rollbar.Toys
- Revenge of the Fallen Legends Tankor (2009)
- This Legends-only toy is a Decepticon and a redeco of BrawlBrawl (Transformers)Brawl is the name given to several fictional characters in the various Transformers universes. He is sometimes called "Decepticon Brawl" in the toy line for trademark purposes.-Transformers: Generation 1:...
.