Transformers #43 isn't a return to the glory days of Robots in Disguise, but rather a complete about face, embracing and nurturing the distinctive elements of the book's second season. The result is an honest and funny detour that finally justifies the series' new direction and takes it about as far as it can go in its current form. Free from the crossover's complex preparations, Transformers #43 is a promising step into the post-"Combiner Wars" world. Read Full Review

Though the central conflict of the series is no more, Barber still finds plenty of intrigue to keep the plot moving forward. Blackrock's intentions don't seem completely honorable and there's something fishy about how they've developed an outpost that could lead to a renewed conflict on Earth. The Autobots and their suspicions could force the conflict back to the foreground, suggesting the interesting idea that the heroes of the story could create the violence they always sought to eradicate since they are unable to change. Combined with strong art and entertaining character development, philosophical ideas like this make "Transformers" #43 a solid comic. Read Full Review

While a smaller focused story full of explanation and setup, this never feels forced and stays within the voice of the characters. This issue leaves me with a lot of hope for the upcoming part of this Earth based story arc. Read Full Review