My headcanon is that all Transformers have built in blasters, but they drain the bot's energy faster, so using regular guns is far more practical and more energy efficient.
and also due to the lack of energy is logical that transformers would start using weapons that require projectile based ammo like bullets. It would be far less effective than energy based weapons but in a post apocalyptic cybertron with barely enough energy arround to just keep you functioning is a far better option.
In theory, they should be able to just turn their arms into effectively regular rifles that use reloadable ballistics. It still just the superior option to have it built in rather than having to hold it.
@ShadrackMeduson I also would like to add on that the reason the Autobots don't have their handheld guns in Rise of the Beasts is because they're rifles wouldn't fit inside their pods with them, so they have to use their arm blasters (except Arcee considering her and her weapons' size)
@nmr7203 I guess the thing is stopping it is probably the materials for the ammunition. Like it's more costly to produce individual bullets than to use a laser weapon
I think that only Warrior Cybertronians/Majority of Decepticons should have Build-In Weapons, where Civilians/Majority of Autobots should have Hand-Held Guns This to give an ulterior difference Also Decepticons where supposed to be the Military Faction of Cybertron where Autobots where the Civilians
G1 had both arm cannons and separate firearms. The first episode of G1 had Shockwave after all. The early episodes implied that all transformers could transform their hands/arms into various tools including weapons and cannons. Also don’t forget laser eyes.
I don't particularly like the idea that the entire population of this race just has built-in weapons of war. However, if they have built-in tools, it's a different story. For example, maybe Bumblebee is an electrician, so he has his stingers. Maybe Hot Rod is a blacksmith, that's why he has flamethrowers. Ratchet's a medic, so he has built-in surgery tools. Maybe Prowl could have a built-in weapon because he's a cop. Optimus could have built-in weapons as part of being upgraded to a Prime.
@@Saturnlock thanks I see it as sort of an Iron Giant “I am not a gun” thing. I make exceptions of course for Targetmaster characters with gun alt modes or bots built for or drafted into a strongly military purpose like the Seekers, Warpath, etc
Should be character based, and the whole gimmick of the franchise is transforming. Makes sense to me that some of them would choose to have their weapons built in. Half of America probably would if it was normal.
@@TransformersGeek14I like that mindset cause it’s a thought I kinda have. Certain characters are more famous for hand cannons vs blasters. When ever character goes to arm cannons it becomes kinda boring atleast mix it up in some way. Beast wars for example some characters had built in weapons, primal, scorpionk and megatron while others had their own weapon.. rhinoxs gattling guns
@@SuperGamefreak18 Like Optimus should have his Ion Rifle, but a built in axe. I think a character like Prowl could see the huge benefit of being constantly armed.
My first exposure to Transformers, was is in Transformers Energon. But ever since they introduced arm cannons, my response has been. "Oh, well that makes so much more sense! They already transform into a vehicle, why would they not do the same thing with their weapons? This just seems like a much more natural progression of technology for their species"
I like it as a mix of the two, mainly due to liking the mix n' match an arsenal of rifles offer, but also loving the visual spectacle that transforming arm weapons add to choreography I do have strong feelings on how arm weapons are obtained, I much prefer the thought of them being installed into the character or picked up (ala high moon games) rather than being preinstalled into their transformation (like TFO Bumblebee or the Terrans) the sole exception to this is TFO D16, that fusion cannon reveal gives chills
The first piece of transformers media that I really paid attention to was transformers prime and I prefer how arm cannons look, however I generally prefer toys that have separate weapons
I prefer the Transformers Animated/ G1 approach where they have unique/ special weapons tools and abilities unique to them/ their cold construction molds. I think weapons shouldn't be natural to cybertronians. Tools and powers are ok, but even though it sounds natural, it makes it seem like cybertronians are born for war.
I like the idea of Decepticons using arm cannons and autobots having blasters. The thought behind it is that the Decepticons are so mired in tyranny and hatred that they have turned themselves into their weapons of war, whereas the autobots try to separate themselves from violence by using weapons of war separate from their own bodies things they can put down or turn away from in hopes of a future of peace. With some exceptions for certain characters personality or backstory of course. This was handled pretty well in animated with Rachet who had to use his medical instruments as a weapon of war and it ending up traumatizing him.
This is the first time I feel genuinely split on this. I love the integrated weapons in the War for Cybertron games, but things like the Seeker's null rays and Prime's ion cannon are too iconic to ignore. From a toy standpoint, I prefer it when the weapon makes sense for the character. I've mentioned the Seekers, but I think characters like Hot Rod who can use his exhaust pipes as a gun are better off with those than his two pistols, and Shockwave is the OG arm cannon character. However, characters like that are definitely in the minority. So I think I have to go with hand-held blasters, with a few notable exceptions. I think a 70/30 split would be fine
I feel like Animated did it best, with the Autobots having built-in tools and handheld weapons while the Decepticons have full-on Cannons and Blasters and Lugnut's Pocket Nuke. It allows the Autobots to be more resourceful and creative with their solutions.
The best headcanon I have seen about this is that they all started out with internal weapons or tools, but then as the war went on, they switched over to making external weaponry as part of their arms race. That said, I like targetmasters/Mini-Con weapons the most, and I have no idea which type that would count for because it's just picking some other robot up to use their overpowered internal weapon.
G1 rifles just aren’t threatening. Most of them look funny, goofy, or even stupid. They never look intimidating unless it’s purely due to size. The arm transformation cannons always feel like they could genuinely hurt someone
I like the idea of the Transformers having handheld blasters, but have their melee weapons be in-built, like Prime Arcee and Bulkhead, or Cyberverse Bumblebee’s stinger. Swords can be both handheld or in-built.
As I’ve seen a few others say, I think it should be built in weapons for the Decepticons, handguns for the Autobots. Like have the Decepticons built for war and conquest, with Megatron altering those who he recruited before/early days of the war into instruments of destruction, then when they attacked, the Autobots had to just grab any handheld weapons they could find to defend themselves.
I personally like the idea of having both hand-held and integrated weapons, since even the “sacred” G1 cartoon had both too. The Decepticons were mainly military units so they WOULD have built in weapons, like the seekers from Bumblebee having missiles, null-rays and their jet-mode’s main gun as an smg. The Autobots are mainly civilians who would use built-in tools as weapons, like Ratchet’s magnets in Animated or Optimus’ axe in everything, and would have to make blasters to fight. From a narrative standpoint, that then adds tension for the heroes as they could lose their main weapon while the villains can only lose their weapon if they lose a limb. It also adds creativity to the fight scene, as the heroes then have to figure out ways to use what they have.
Beast Wars and Armada both had the same philosophy: everything is fair game. Weapons as separate equipment, weapons built into the chassis (eye beams, shoulder missiles), weapons as part of the alt-form kibble, and transforming(flip-out) weapons.
I believe that the Autobots should have hand held weapons and the Deceptions should have Built in weapons due to them being more destructive and makes it as if They are the weapon.
I prefer a combination of the two. I like to think some Transformers have weapons built in, and some don't. Seekers are built for war or cloned from a bot perfect for war, so they'd have blasters built in. but average bots, like Bee or some others? No. Maybe they have built in tools, or can have a blaster that transforms to tuck away, but I don't think all of them ought to have guns built into their bodies. Thus, if they choose to fight, they could be issued a blaster.
I always thought the way arm canons in transformers worked or at least the ones that shoot energy was similar to Mega-Man’s Mega Buster where it’s Solar Energy
"Both, both is good". I feel the franchise can afford to have both; heck technically in g1 we did have both, a few examples include shockwave's hand, Ironhide turning his hand into liquid nitrogen guns, and during one episode Skywarp is seen firing a bouncer bomb from his hand. The live action films also have a good number of examples of characters using both built in weaponry as well as weapons separate from their body. Though an interesting thought came to my mind, since the Autobots aren't thought of as the aggressors of the war, it feels a little weird for them to be built with guns inside them. Perhaps we can have a continuity where the Decepticons are built with weapons inside them, while the Autobots have to rely on arming themselves with weapons they build.
I always thought that transformers looked cooler with transforming arm weapons, that way they always have them ready. (Maybe I’m biased because my first transformers experience was Transformers Prime).
I couldn't do the poll because you only have two options. My choice is a combination of the two. G1 didn't have built-in weapons, except for the occasional shoulder-mounted rocket launcher or that one time with the gun that popped out of Ironhide's back. We did see hidden gadgets like Jazz's grappling hook, but those lost prominence as time went on. Having a built-in tool like that is an asset and can lead to cool gimmicks in the toyline. (Armada and Cybertron are the ultimate revelation of that, though they required an external object, like a Mini-Con or Cyber Key.) I could see certain characters using a built-in weapon from their alt mode, although with TJ being anti-kibble and I get the impression he doesn't want the robot to even look like it transforms I could see him not in favor or the turret becoming an arm cannon or jet booster. Having external weapons also allows for non-gun weapons like melee weapons or crossbows, as would fit the character they're going for. Plus if the gun itself transforms for storage, like with some of the Classics figures, you still have that transformation aspect. Decepticons and more combat-happy Autobots might prefer the built-ins but Autobots forced to fight in the war would probably prefer not being a weapon themselves. TL;DR: Why not have both?
@@ZachDy-xg9it I was thinking Warpath and the Dinobots, but you do have a point about Ironhide. I don't know if they enjoy the whole "killing" part, but Ironhide is an old warhorse and Warpath does like to make things explode so much it's part of his speech pattern.
I think a mix of both like how TFP did it is good, larger or more specialized weapons as handheld with standard blasters/melee being built-in. Using the arm cannon type weapons as a sidearm when paired with a handheld weapon is also a cool idea that doesn't get used that much unfortunately. Out of ammo? just turn your arm into another gun! Animated presented the idea of removing built-in weapons with lockdown collecting upgrades and whatnot. G1 also had a bunch of built-in weapons/utilities like ironhide's water gun or hotrod's forearm exausts. Both are good, and both make cool robots more cool.
This doesn’t feel like an argument that needs two sides. Both are cool, both have different strengths and weaknesses, so both can coexist without much issue. After all, in G1 Optimus had his iconic handheld rifle while Megatron had his iconic built-in fusion cannon. Can’t get more proof of “both is goodl than that.
Here's how you make arm cannons great you basically make them like SD cards they're upgrades where just put it in your arm and you that gun and it can be used for tension where you can disarm them by taking out their gun without chopping their arms off
Speaking of Arm Cannons does anyone like how some Bayverse versions of Transformers looked like mechanical abominations with more limbs, Legs and parts and a lot of weapons built in? I mean I know not many people like it but I do. It really feels like something some members of the cybertronian species would do. I always felt like some transformers would absolutely just modify themselves and add on as many limbs and built in weapons as possible to the point of looking like mechanical monster war machines. Plus they are mechanical aliens. In fact I wouldn’t mind if a future iteration of transformers had Autobots look more akin to the friendly G1/Armada/Animated/Unicron trilogy kind of designs while the Decepticons had the sort of designs I described Bayverse having. It would kinda tie into the fact that the Decepticons were like military robots made for combat in the original G1 cartoon
I personally enjoy seeing more alien designs, like how a bunch of bay bots (like the dreads in DotM) don't look like they based their main forms off humans/humanoids. Partially because they're aliens, so they wouldn't know about humans to mimic their body shape (not accounting for things like the Triptych mask that was used to scan all life in the universe so their body plans could be used as bases for new cybertronian bodies) although one could also argue bipedalism happens to be more effective for them, and it ended up being the norm and a coincidence that it's the same body structure as humans. But the other reason I like it is because it just adds more diverse designs, like how the Dreads were animalistic and could run well on all fours, or just the fact that their biology operates on a different ruleset, which means they have more leeway in the kind of bodies they can have, and as you said, they could just build tons of weapons into their body to the point they might even blend with their standard limbs permanently
I like the consensus of some have built in weapons and others hold weapons. I think Optimus should have a handheld gun but built in melee weapons. I think bumblebee can have arm cannons and built in blades. I think it should vary
For non altmode related weapons, I prefer handheld guns. They're mechanical lifeforms, not weapons of war. Weapons systems aren't an inherent part of their biology, but optional tools they use. They can reject violence and put down the weapons any time they want, but choose not to. Also, I prefer in-fiction transformations that are highly regular and look possible in real life, and a hand transforming into a much larger gun often feels beyond the realm of possibility.
I don't mind some attached weapons, like the Seekers' guns, Megatron's fusion cannon, or Wheeljack's shoulder cannon. I even like the occasional static handgun like Shockwave or Inferno and Grapple. But for the most part, I prefer them to have an actual separate gun that they're carrying around with them, storing them in subspace when they're not using them. My biggest reason for this? A separate weapon can be taken from you without having to otherwise mess with transformation or mutilation. You just gotta get it out of their hand and you've disarmed them.
I’ve always preferred built in weapons - it adds to the Cybertronians’ natural abilities of transformation and evolution. Also, it would be more efficient to have your weapons stored inside you rather than carry them
I think arm cannons don't require external energy source, but it drain the energon from the bots themselves, so it can't be too powerful and have limited use.
I head cannon that transformers have to "install" any sort or inbuilt item. Similar to the wfc and foc games, where you can pick up and swap weapons. However, both the user and the tool have to experience that same "upgrade" in order to be compatible. So you can have some weapons which have unique signatures/upgrades and or only compatible with few to one bot (example being weapons of the primes). So there are standard guns, swords, saws, shields which can be handheld, but also if it has been upgraded to be compatible to transform inside a bot, it can be used that way. Hope this makes sense to anyone who reads this. : )
My only problem with AOE Lockdown is this: to transform he leans forward, crouches down and his head-end turns into a cannon, and who else was in this movie? Galvatron! How good a modern take would face-rifle have been for him? Ugh. But I do like it for Lockdown, it fits thematically but come on.
Personally, arm blasters/cannons for less powerful weapons and dental defence (decepticons excluded) but for more firepower, a dedicated weapon for autobots who have built in melee
Imo, Arm Cannons are alot cooler and work better for scifi/alien race all about transforming That said, i dont think every cybertronian should have arm cannons, i feel like that makes it a bit over done, i prefer them as upgrades or something As for blasters, i find them boring personally, but they are needed
As a kid, any feature on a toy that looked like it could fire a laser became a weapon. Lots of G1 characters had a built-in blaster or missile launcher, and my TF toys used them a lot in battles.
to be honest, I think the existence of both could lead to some interesting stealth world building. like originally they had just the inbuilt weapons powered by their own energon reserves, but as energon became more scarce they had to switch to external weapons as to now threaten their own lives
In my perspective, this debate should expand to arm mounted or hand held melee weapons. With arm mounted (with the exception of TF One Optimus’ energon axe), the weapon is limited to what angles the weapon is pointed due to the lack of the wrist. With hand held melee weapons, they have similar drawbacks to hand held blasters and guns.
I'm personally of the opinion that integrated weapons are okay, but only within reason. I personally view them as a sort of last resort/hold out style weapon; especially if it's powered by the user's own energy. Having additional external weapons to serve as auxiliary options to supplement their integrated weapons and bolster their arsenal makes more sense to me.
As Transformers are presented as living beings that happen to be robotic or robot-like, I always thought that the in-built weapons were like a cat’s claws, or a shark’s teeth. They are the natural weapons that are “built” inside each Transformer. The blaster guns are like us with our guns, external tools we use to kill something because we need food, or because we don’t like someone else.
My idea since I was a child is that they all have the ability to enhance themselves with weaponry, in the same way that they all have the capability to pick up and learn random weapons. So I guess a mix of both? But what I HIGHLY want from TF figures is weapon storage. It makes a lot of sense to have your weapons be able to integrate into your alt form if you're a transformer who fights in a war.
Depends on the series, IMO. Aesthetically, if I had to choose, hand held blaster, but both are good. 86 Optimus's flipping, shooting scene is hard to top. Same toy wise, I'm good both ways, but some handheld weapons look really nice. Logically, I go back, and forth. It makes sense for transforming machines to have built in weaponry. But like you say, that's using internal energy, or possibly housing explosive rounds in their body. Where a handheld weapon uses external sources.
I remember in one of the Bayverse books--I think it was a prequel to Revenge of the Fallen--Ironhide straight up explains that bots that fire physical ammo need to periodically consume raw materials so their bodies can simply produce the ammo as it's needed. I think the book was called "The Veiled Threat."
Both. The way I see it, standard built-in arm cannons like what Arcee and Bumblebee have in Prime would be the equivalent of a sidearm, but things like Megatrons arm cannon, something that isn't built in but attached, seeker null rays and things like that, and weapons like Optimus's iconic gun are more powerful
i like the idea of the built in weapons being secondary as it uses your own energy sort of a last resort, while a hand held can use alternate ammo and energy types / sources, as for melee weapons every bot should have one built in.
Generally I prefer handheld for bots, built-in for cons but that's not set in stone though bonus points if the hand-held weapon is made from a part of the vehicle Like how Bay Prime's rifles are made from the gas cans of the truck, or Generations Kup's becoming an exhaust for his pickup truck
I prefer it to be a mix with a specific logic; Integrated weaponry is more convenient, since, as you noted, integrated weaponry don't have to carry it when it's not in use, and it can't be knocked from your hand if you are knocked down, but, relying on the internal power source to power it (physical ammo isn't a factor in my headcanon for intergrated weapons) so they are not as powerful, while physically weilded weapons are more powerful, they can have some non standard ammo types, but the tradeoff is that they can be dropped.
How id do it: Built in weapons are “body modifications” that they need to have done to them, and some do it for convenience, but requires more energy from the bot as its literally part of them now. Bots like Kup would hate the idea because of how easy it can go wrong while others (like the more violent autobots or decepticons like warpath or overlord as examples) would have them to become more effective living weapons.
My personal headcanon is that typically, cybertronians dont have built in weaponry as a default, rather that was a practice seen in wartime, though often the hand held weapons are capable of folding away into a section of the armour and can be deployed when needed
Personally, I think it should depend on the character. I think most (not all) of the Autobots should have tools that are repurposed as weapons, while carrying handheld guns. Meanwhile, most (again, not all) Decepticons have built in weapons. I think another important distinction is how it is handled, I think shows like G1, Beast Wars, TFA did it right by having certain weapons have one specific place that they can come out of, such as Sideswipe's shoulder cannon, or Dinobot's tail. TFP did it stupidly by having hands of literally every character just be able to disappear and reconstruct into a gun or whatever else.
I grew up with RID 2001 through Animated, as well as a few YTV reruns of the '86 movies, so I ended up with a mix. Some weapons were integrated, some weren't. Unicron Trilogy in particular had numerous separate weapons, but the gimmicks frequently activated integrated weapons. Some integrated weapons were like '86 Hot Rod's exhaust pipe guns or Armada Megatron's tank barrel, where there's a clear delineation between "weapon" and "Not weapon" but it's not exactly like they could be removed.
To me the whole arm blaster just make more sense to me. Like using a gun is more risky per say as in when you drop it by accident. Also I assume they are more accurate when using an arm blaster than a gun since it's part of their body as in have a better sense of their aim!
I like to think that a Transformer is not firing Energon, but rather that Energon is powering a Cybertronians functions through some kind of matter converter. This could include their weapons, both melee and ranged; firing laser-bolts or physical rounds.
Demographically, I'm a a Unicron Trilogy kid Historically, I'm more of an Arm Cannon guy, I just think it makes sense for Transformers to do that. Recently though I've been thinking that it could be fun to play with this thematically. Have the Decepticons use integrated arm cannon like weapons to show how they've embraced a life of conquest and warfare, while the autobots use seperate weapons to show that they still hold on to their peaceful ideals. Maybe use it to underline the tragedy of the war by having the younger autobots have inegrated weapons Whle I'm currently conflicted, I'll vote Arm cannon on basis of my historical preference (And yes, I have seen Deadman Wonderland)
I don't mind either way, but I prefer rifles. Handheld weapons overall. For years I wanted an Optimus Prime with a large pole axe as opposed to the small hand retractable Energon axe, that desire was fulfilled in SIEGE (post Animated). Mainly because I started with Armada, a lot of my figures had rifles so I've always preferred them over arm Cannons. Arm Cannons are nice too. Both have plusses and minuses.
Within my personal canon, internal or integrated firearms are primarily Decepticon exclusive while the Autobots have non-integrated firearms because of their origins as military and servant units. Any missile launcher you see strapped to an Autobot’s shoulder was just that- strapped to to their shoulder. Besides, I like the idea of the Decepticons living up to their name and deploying surprise weapons.
I base it off if it looks better handheld or integrated, for example I display Seige Reflector with his gun integrated ( just dont flip out the fist and plug the gun in the fist ) but Melee should always be integrated if short range ( hand axes, daggers, grappling hooks Mjolnir style hammers, and mantis blades) but large weapons like sledgehammers, longswords, spears, buster swords shpuld be separated
I think there’s a place for both, with my preference being integrated. It reinforces the idea that transformers fight with their whole body, as we saw magnificently in TFONE. This franchise is about robots who turn into stuff so it’s just furthering the idea and uniqueness of the brand, as transforming weapons or body parts is one of the things that gives transformers fights the ability to really stand out in a world where we have a LOT of fantastic action scenes in things like superhero movies. Actually, it’s just like superheroes. You want to see a superhero fight with their powers, that’s the whole point. Transforming is the super power, so using it effectively in an integrated manner is the best way to maximize that cool factor. One of the best shots from TFONE was Optimus’ axe moving through his body to come out the other hand, you can’t do that with external weaponry
I'm of two minds about this. I like the arm gun look in the Cybertron games because they use ammo clips and not the energon of the user. For everything else,with the exception of characters like Megatron and Shockwave ,I prefer the holding a gun look but that may be because my first transformers show was Beast Wars where both of the methods were used.
I prefer normal weapons, but there's nothing wrong with arm cannons. WfC/FoC had the best implementation of that; the arms turning into sockets to attach weapons onto.
I love both arm cannon and handheld blaster, i think they should exist in the same continuity with different variation. Like the transformers have small cannon/taser based on their body type that use their energon for fuel so they only use it for last resort when they need to self defense. But there another version of the arm cannon that that they can attach and disattach wfc game style, but this make their hand more bulky so they drop it down after a fight, this use ammunition instead of using their energy source. Its uncomfortable to use but its practical for combat situation, this is where the blaster come to play where they can put it on there back of the transformers and more comfortable, theyre also easier to take of from the robots hand. I think different type of fire arm can be use to make characterization for each transformers, some strong one like megatron just put it on the side of his arm, some like bumblebee are small scout with small blaster/ small taser arm cannon, some more suicidal transformers use their natural arm cannon as their main weapon, maybe give the attachment to make it more powerful, the potential is endless
Personally I'd like them to have small weaponry built in them like in G1 as their back ups like pistols and knives in FPS games, with handheld weapons being the main weapons they use.
Blasters are more energon efficient, but you can loose them easily, arm cannons are cooler, and you can't really loose them, but they can drain the Transformer that wields it (unless they have their own power source inside the Transformer that we are unaware of). Anyways, blasters is what I would choose between the 2. And remember, there's a lot more weapons that don't use as much energon, like blades and shields, that can also factor in during a fight. At least, a hand to hand combat.
I think having integrated weapons makes things like the star saber or the forge of souls prime have more weight and power. Optimus with a sword coming from his forearm is dope, but him HOLDING a sword like a knight is badass
G1, always loved when the Weapon was part of them like Megatron or Starscream or Soundwave. Especially in beast wars where dinobots tail becomes his sword and shield and his eyes are the blaster.
I think there’s a place for both, with my preference being integrated. It reinforces the idea that transformers fight with their whole body, as we saw magnificently in TFONE. This franchise is about robots who turn into stuff so it’s just furthering the idea and uniqueness of the brand, as transforming weapons or body parts is one of the things that gives transformers fights the ability to really stand out in a world where we have a LOT of fantastic action scenes in things like superhero movies. Actually, it’s just like superheroes. You want to see a superhero fight with their powers, that’s the whole point. Transforming is the super power, so using it effectively in an integrated manner is the best way to maximize that cool factor. One of the best shots from TFONE was Optimus’ axe moving through his body to come out the other hand, you can’t do that with external weaponry. Like I said, I think there’s a place for both though
For me it depends on the character. To me Optimus needs his hand held rifle, Megatron needs his arm mounted canon, Starscream needs the null rays. Ironhide i prefer arm cannons but can also wield guns, Bumblebee i mean i have the Earthspark toy holding the Age of Extinction Crosshairs’ rifle blaster. I gave Strongarm 86 Arcee’s pistol cuz it look like a police officer’s. Hot Rod for me his exhausts on his arm are his blasters. But if it’s a character like movie Hound, Roadbuster, Where they’re walking arsenals, they need hand held rifles.
A combination of both is the best, which is why you typically never see just one or the other in a series. G1 has a lot of hand held blasters but also has Megatron/Galvatron, Shockwave, Seekers, with built in/attached weapons. Prime mostly uses built in but I figured that's because they're low on resources and have to use them. In season 3 they use a variety of hand held weapons. Even beast Wars has a combination, with a pretty even distribution of hand held and built in blasters Also, Optimus Prime in Bayverse uses handheld blasters, like the one you reference in revenge of the fallen. They're stored on his back
We've actually had arm cannons since G1. Trailbreaker, Grapple, Hoist, and Inferno had them. Unless you're only counting the transformable ones. Those guys seemed to be stuck with one hand, which seems like a disadvantage. At least Ironhide could transform his hands to fire liquid nitrogen etc. Hmm, I don't think robots would drop guns as easily as humans. Ammo placement, using up energy. I don't think we're supposed to think that deep about this haha. But good point with Dinobot. I guess the "realism" is selectively applied haha. I agree on having separate accessories and guns being more fun for play value purposes. Well, arm cannons are more futuristic and alien, but it doesn't make sense the Transformers are humanoid in robot form in the first place haha. I pretty much know who all my Transformers guns go to, except for one mystery weapon that came with my G1 Hot Spot. I found out later he is supposed to have 2 identical guns. One is the correct gun, and the other one is similar size but different, bulkier design and looks like it could attach other stuff to it. It has to be an actual Transformers weapon, because it uses a 5 millimeter port, but it doesn't go to any G1 figure, from what I can tell. Anyway, rifles for me.
The advantage of an arm cannon is you can't be disarmed in battle unless you're literally dis-armed. But having separate ordinance means ammo/energy is not reliant on you to power. Also 20XX has been here for 25 (almost 26) years now, depending on what you substitute for the XX variable. 😂
I think the biggest problem with integrated weaponry is if an Autobot was captured by Decepticons, what's stopping them from cutting their arms off at the elbow to stop them from using their weapons?
I may be a Unicron Trilogy kid, but I myself prefer arm cannons for the same reason TJ prefers his Transformers noseless: they're robots! It makes more sense for a machine to have the weapon circuitry and hardware directly integrated into their systems as opposed to a handheld blaster. Plus, we have to remember that they are advanced *alien* robots. Their tech is so advanced, they might not need to have their weapons be seperate blasters, and they might also operate and fire their weaponry far differently than we would ours. And who said integrated weaponry can't be personalized or iconic? (Animated Bumblebee's stingers and G1 Hot Rod's saw come to mind) easier transportability is also another factor too: its far easier for your weapon to be hidden in Alt-Mode as an integrated weapon than if it was its own seperate firearm. Where are you gonna hide a giant ass rifle in vehicle mode? The trunk? Also, Studio Series has proven that you absolutely CAN pull off a good arm cannon without having to detatch the arm toy wise. Studio Series Starscream with his missle canon which pegs seamlessly into the peg holes exposed by folding his hand in comes to mind. Also, G1 megs was himself a wholeass pistol, so I think he technically counts in that regard. Also, I always felt that it was implied that integrated weapons had their own seperate fuel cells and ammo cartriges. Hell, that's exactly the way they operated in the War for Cybertron game. Also, I just think it looks so cool when their hands and forearms transform into the weapon itself. Also, I vote that our next debate should be Lasers Vs. Bullets.
9:30 If I´m not wrong, Optimus´s weapons aren´t a part of his arm, but rather rifles he hand holds and stores in his back because they´re made out of his gas tanks, but I could be wrong.
It kinda depends when it comes to arm cannons I like them more when are longer than the actual arm like the 2018 version of bumblebee as opposed to the 07 look
Because I grew up with animated, I love the idea of utility tools being built in like bumblebees stingers, bulkheads wrecking ball, or ratchets claw thingos, even g1 sideswipe with his pile drivers. As you said, it makes sense for a transformer be able to turn into a weapon, but sometimes that doesn’t seem as interesting so I have this inbetween of built in utility tools. Also a big problem with the arm cannons is that they always seem to be really bad weapons. Like looking at TF Prime, those arm cannons didnt do much, like whats the point of shooting someone like megatron if it doesnt do anything. I feel like the cybertron games were a great in between, its a seperate weapon but it integrates into the cybertronians arm
I like the choice between arm cannon and arm blade like in transformers prime. They could all turn their arm into either a range weapon or a melee weapon. But some of the g1 guns are iconic like Optimus Primes ion rifle.
I grew up with G1 and I much prefer the blaster rifle. If you have a weapon built in then to me it suggests that it's always been part of you and there was never peace on Cyberton whereas a blaster means you pick it up for a reason.
I think that built in weapons should EXIST, but be a rarity. Let Megatron's fusion cannon be HIM, but the average cybertronian shouldn't be a walking weapons rack. I like the idea that a characters can lose their weapon in combat, because thats more narratively interesting. Think in Guardians 3 where Nebula can't go in to the meeting because her cybernetics are built-in weapons, which leads to Groot having to smuggle weapons in. If they all always have weapons on them, then there cant be a symbolic throwing down of the weapons for peace talks.
“Both?”
“Both.”
“BOTH!”
“Both is good.”
As a wise triple changer once said "Why not both?"
My headcanon is that all Transformers have built in blasters, but they drain the bot's energy faster, so using regular guns is far more practical and more energy efficient.
and also due to the lack of energy is logical that transformers would start using weapons that require projectile based ammo like bullets. It would be far less effective than energy based weapons but in a post apocalyptic cybertron with barely enough energy arround to just keep you functioning is a far better option.
In theory, they should be able to just turn their arms into effectively regular rifles that use reloadable ballistics. It still just the superior option to have it built in rather than having to hold it.
@ShadrackMeduson I also would like to add on that the reason the Autobots don't have their handheld guns in Rise of the Beasts is because they're rifles wouldn't fit inside their pods with them, so they have to use their arm blasters (except Arcee considering her and her weapons' size)
@nmr7203 I guess the thing is stopping it is probably the materials for the ammunition. Like it's more costly to produce individual bullets than to use a laser weapon
@@ShadrackMedusonBut you also need energy to fire bullets.
I'd prefer it if they all used handheld weapons before the war and during the war integrated weaponry became more common as it progressed.
I think that
only Warrior Cybertronians/Majority of Decepticons should have Build-In Weapons,
where Civilians/Majority of Autobots should have Hand-Held Guns
This to give an ulterior difference
Also Decepticons where supposed to be the Military Faction of Cybertron where Autobots where the Civilians
G1 had both arm cannons and separate firearms. The first episode of G1 had Shockwave after all. The early episodes implied that all transformers could transform their hands/arms into various tools including weapons and cannons.
Also don’t forget laser eyes.
Hot Rod's wielding hand comes to mind, too.
Also Megatron always had whats basically a Build-In Blaster
(the Fusion Cannon)
Where Optimus always had the Hand-Rifle
all weapons are integrated, where else would they store it when they are transformed?(let's ignore the fysical toys)
@@Majinhero
I think it was stated that in some continuities they have Pocket Dimensions
I don't particularly like the idea that the entire population of this race just has built-in weapons of war. However, if they have built-in tools, it's a different story. For example, maybe Bumblebee is an electrician, so he has his stingers. Maybe Hot Rod is a blacksmith, that's why he has flamethrowers. Ratchet's a medic, so he has built-in surgery tools. Maybe Prowl could have a built-in weapon because he's a cop. Optimus could have built-in weapons as part of being upgraded to a Prime.
I agree with this completely. They are people. They are not weapons. Their base state of existence is not war.
@Cdr2002 exactly!
I perfer to see it as a self defense thing as seen in animals.
@@greendecepticon6148 that’s an interesting way of looking at it
@@Saturnlock thanks
I see it as sort of an Iron Giant “I am not a gun” thing. I make exceptions of course for Targetmaster characters with gun alt modes or bots built for or drafted into a strongly military purpose like the Seekers, Warpath, etc
Should be character based, and the whole gimmick of the franchise is transforming. Makes sense to me that some of them would choose to have their weapons built in. Half of America probably would if it was normal.
When writing I also make the arm blasters run off of energon viles. They last for a long ass time but they can still deplete and run out.
@@TransformersGeek14I like that mindset cause it’s a thought I kinda have. Certain characters are more famous for hand cannons vs blasters. When ever character goes to arm cannons it becomes kinda boring atleast mix it up in some way. Beast wars for example some characters had built in weapons, primal, scorpionk and megatron while others had their own weapon.. rhinoxs gattling guns
@@SuperGamefreak18 Like Optimus should have his Ion Rifle, but a built in axe. I think a character like Prowl could see the huge benefit of being constantly armed.
@@TransformersGeek14 agreed and I dont mind Bee having built in stingers cause Bee is a scout thats trying to be a badass with mix results
Prime series explicitly says they use energon for ammunition
In beast wars there was a third option and that was have both. The spiders had both hand held guns and their spider legs were guns too.
My first exposure to Transformers, was is in Transformers Energon. But ever since they introduced arm cannons, my response has been. "Oh, well that makes so much more sense! They already transform into a vehicle, why would they not do the same thing with their weapons? This just seems like a much more natural progression of technology for their species"
I like it as a mix of the two, mainly due to liking the mix n' match an arsenal of rifles offer, but also loving the visual spectacle that transforming arm weapons add to choreography
I do have strong feelings on how arm weapons are obtained, I much prefer the thought of them being installed into the character or picked up (ala high moon games) rather than being preinstalled into their transformation (like TFO Bumblebee or the Terrans)
the sole exception to this is TFO D16, that fusion cannon reveal gives chills
The first piece of transformers media that I really paid attention to was transformers prime and I prefer how arm cannons look, however I generally prefer toys that have separate weapons
I prefer the Transformers Animated/ G1 approach where they have unique/ special weapons tools and abilities unique to them/ their cold construction molds. I think weapons shouldn't be natural to cybertronians. Tools and powers are ok, but even though it sounds natural, it makes it seem like cybertronians are born for war.
I say both a mix of either is good
I like the idea of Decepticons using arm cannons and autobots having blasters. The thought behind it is that the Decepticons are so mired in tyranny and hatred that they have turned themselves into their weapons of war, whereas the autobots try to separate themselves from violence by using weapons of war separate from their own bodies things they can put down or turn away from in hopes of a future of peace. With some exceptions for certain characters personality or backstory of course. This was handled pretty well in animated with Rachet who had to use his medical instruments as a weapon of war and it ending up traumatizing him.
This is the first time I feel genuinely split on this. I love the integrated weapons in the War for Cybertron games, but things like the Seeker's null rays and Prime's ion cannon are too iconic to ignore.
From a toy standpoint, I prefer it when the weapon makes sense for the character. I've mentioned the Seekers, but I think characters like Hot Rod who can use his exhaust pipes as a gun are better off with those than his two pistols, and Shockwave is the OG arm cannon character.
However, characters like that are definitely in the minority. So I think I have to go with hand-held blasters, with a few notable exceptions. I think a 70/30 split would be fine
I feel like Animated did it best, with the Autobots having built-in tools and handheld weapons while the Decepticons have full-on Cannons and Blasters and Lugnut's Pocket Nuke. It allows the Autobots to be more resourceful and creative with their solutions.
The best headcanon I have seen about this is that they all started out with internal weapons or tools, but then as the war went on, they switched over to making external weaponry as part of their arms race. That said, I like targetmasters/Mini-Con weapons the most, and I have no idea which type that would count for because it's just picking some other robot up to use their overpowered internal weapon.
G1 rifles just aren’t threatening. Most of them look funny, goofy, or even stupid. They never look intimidating unless it’s purely due to size. The arm transformation cannons always feel like they could genuinely hurt someone
I like the idea of the Transformers having handheld blasters, but have their melee weapons be in-built, like Prime Arcee and Bulkhead, or Cyberverse Bumblebee’s stinger. Swords can be both handheld or in-built.
As I’ve seen a few others say, I think it should be built in weapons for the Decepticons, handguns for the Autobots. Like have the Decepticons built for war and conquest, with Megatron altering those who he recruited before/early days of the war into instruments of destruction, then when they attacked, the Autobots had to just grab any handheld weapons they could find to defend themselves.
I personally like the idea of having both hand-held and integrated weapons, since even the “sacred” G1 cartoon had both too. The Decepticons were mainly military units so they WOULD have built in weapons, like the seekers from Bumblebee having missiles, null-rays and their jet-mode’s main gun as an smg. The Autobots are mainly civilians who would use built-in tools as weapons, like Ratchet’s magnets in Animated or Optimus’ axe in everything, and would have to make blasters to fight. From a narrative standpoint, that then adds tension for the heroes as they could lose their main weapon while the villains can only lose their weapon if they lose a limb. It also adds creativity to the fight scene, as the heroes then have to figure out ways to use what they have.
I like both, but I lean slightly more towards arm cannons.
Beast Wars and Armada both had the same philosophy: everything is fair game. Weapons as separate equipment, weapons built into the chassis (eye beams, shoulder missiles), weapons as part of the alt-form kibble, and transforming(flip-out) weapons.
I personally think that arm blasters take away from melee weapons, that’s my main gripe
Though i do enjoy things like ONE’s OP having the flamethrowers
How exactly?
I believe that the Autobots should have hand held weapons and the Deceptions should have Built in weapons due to them being more destructive and makes it as if They are the weapon.
Why not Both?
are you animated blitzwing?
I prefer a combination of the two. I like to think some Transformers have weapons built in, and some don't. Seekers are built for war or cloned from a bot perfect for war, so they'd have blasters built in. but average bots, like Bee or some others? No. Maybe they have built in tools, or can have a blaster that transforms to tuck away, but I don't think all of them ought to have guns built into their bodies. Thus, if they choose to fight, they could be issued a blaster.
I always thought the way arm canons in transformers worked or at least the ones that shoot energy was similar to Mega-Man’s Mega Buster where it’s Solar Energy
"Both, both is good". I feel the franchise can afford to have both; heck technically in g1 we did have both, a few examples include shockwave's hand, Ironhide turning his hand into liquid nitrogen guns, and during one episode Skywarp is seen firing a bouncer bomb from his hand. The live action films also have a good number of examples of characters using both built in weaponry as well as weapons separate from their body.
Though an interesting thought came to my mind, since the Autobots aren't thought of as the aggressors of the war, it feels a little weird for them to be built with guns inside them. Perhaps we can have a continuity where the Decepticons are built with weapons inside them, while the Autobots have to rely on arming themselves with weapons they build.
I always thought that transformers looked cooler with transforming arm weapons, that way they always have them ready. (Maybe I’m biased because my first transformers experience was Transformers Prime).
I couldn't do the poll because you only have two options. My choice is a combination of the two. G1 didn't have built-in weapons, except for the occasional shoulder-mounted rocket launcher or that one time with the gun that popped out of Ironhide's back. We did see hidden gadgets like Jazz's grappling hook, but those lost prominence as time went on. Having a built-in tool like that is an asset and can lead to cool gimmicks in the toyline. (Armada and Cybertron are the ultimate revelation of that, though they required an external object, like a Mini-Con or Cyber Key.)
I could see certain characters using a built-in weapon from their alt mode, although with TJ being anti-kibble and I get the impression he doesn't want the robot to even look like it transforms I could see him not in favor or the turret becoming an arm cannon or jet booster. Having external weapons also allows for non-gun weapons like melee weapons or crossbows, as would fit the character they're going for. Plus if the gun itself transforms for storage, like with some of the Classics figures, you still have that transformation aspect. Decepticons and more combat-happy Autobots might prefer the built-ins but Autobots forced to fight in the war would probably prefer not being a weapon themselves.
TL;DR: Why not have both?
Iornhides blaster fingers
Can Ironhide be an example of one of those combat-happy Autobots, along with Warpath?
@@ZachDy-xg9it I was thinking Warpath and the Dinobots, but you do have a point about Ironhide. I don't know if they enjoy the whole "killing" part, but Ironhide is an old warhorse and Warpath does like to make things explode so much it's part of his speech pattern.
I think a mix of both like how TFP did it is good, larger or more specialized weapons as handheld with standard blasters/melee being built-in. Using the arm cannon type weapons as a sidearm when paired with a handheld weapon is also a cool idea that doesn't get used that much unfortunately. Out of ammo? just turn your arm into another gun!
Animated presented the idea of removing built-in weapons with lockdown collecting upgrades and whatnot. G1 also had a bunch of built-in weapons/utilities like ironhide's water gun or hotrod's forearm exausts. Both are good, and both make cool robots more cool.
Has to be both. A high powered blaster in one hand, and an arm cannon for pot shots in place of the other.
This doesn’t feel like an argument that needs two sides. Both are cool, both have different strengths and weaknesses, so both can coexist without much issue. After all, in G1 Optimus had his iconic handheld rifle while Megatron had his iconic built-in fusion cannon. Can’t get more proof of “both is goodl than that.
Here's how you make arm cannons great you basically make them like SD cards they're upgrades where just put it in your arm and you that gun and it can be used for tension where you can disarm them by taking out their gun without chopping their arms off
Speaking of Arm Cannons does anyone like how some Bayverse versions of Transformers looked like mechanical abominations with more limbs, Legs and parts and a lot of weapons built in? I mean I know not many people like it but I do. It really feels like something some members of the cybertronian species would do.
I always felt like some transformers would absolutely just modify themselves and add on as many limbs and built in weapons as possible to the point of looking like mechanical monster war machines. Plus they are mechanical aliens. In fact I wouldn’t mind if a future iteration of transformers had Autobots look more akin to the friendly G1/Armada/Animated/Unicron trilogy kind of designs while the Decepticons had the sort of designs I described Bayverse having. It would kinda tie into the fact that the Decepticons were like military robots made for combat in the original G1 cartoon
I personally enjoy seeing more alien designs, like how a bunch of bay bots (like the dreads in DotM) don't look like they based their main forms off humans/humanoids. Partially because they're aliens, so they wouldn't know about humans to mimic their body shape (not accounting for things like the Triptych mask that was used to scan all life in the universe so their body plans could be used as bases for new cybertronian bodies) although one could also argue bipedalism happens to be more effective for them, and it ended up being the norm and a coincidence that it's the same body structure as humans. But the other reason I like it is because it just adds more diverse designs, like how the Dreads were animalistic and could run well on all fours, or just the fact that their biology operates on a different ruleset, which means they have more leeway in the kind of bodies they can have, and as you said, they could just build tons of weapons into their body to the point they might even blend with their standard limbs permanently
I like the consensus of some have built in weapons and others hold weapons. I think Optimus should have a handheld gun but built in melee weapons. I think bumblebee can have arm cannons and built in blades. I think it should vary
I did like the in-built swords that Optimus used in the live-action films as well as the axe he used in _Rise of the Beasts_
For non altmode related weapons, I prefer handheld guns. They're mechanical lifeforms, not weapons of war. Weapons systems aren't an inherent part of their biology, but optional tools they use. They can reject violence and put down the weapons any time they want, but choose not to. Also, I prefer in-fiction transformations that are highly regular and look possible in real life, and a hand transforming into a much larger gun often feels beyond the realm of possibility.
I don't mind some attached weapons, like the Seekers' guns, Megatron's fusion cannon, or Wheeljack's shoulder cannon. I even like the occasional static handgun like Shockwave or Inferno and Grapple. But for the most part, I prefer them to have an actual separate gun that they're carrying around with them, storing them in subspace when they're not using them.
My biggest reason for this? A separate weapon can be taken from you without having to otherwise mess with transformation or mutilation. You just gotta get it out of their hand and you've disarmed them.
I’ve always preferred built in weapons - it adds to the Cybertronians’ natural abilities of transformation and evolution. Also, it would be more efficient to have your weapons stored inside you rather than carry them
I think arm cannons don't require external energy source, but it drain the energon from the bots themselves, so it can't be too powerful and have limited use.
I head cannon that transformers have to "install" any sort or inbuilt item. Similar to the wfc and foc games, where you can pick up and swap weapons. However, both the user and the tool have to experience that same "upgrade" in order to be compatible. So you can have some weapons which have unique signatures/upgrades and or only compatible with few to one bot (example being weapons of the primes). So there are standard guns, swords, saws, shields which can be handheld, but also if it has been upgraded to be compatible to transform inside a bot, it can be used that way. Hope this makes sense to anyone who reads this. : )
My only problem with AOE Lockdown is this: to transform he leans forward, crouches down and his head-end turns into a cannon, and who else was in this movie? Galvatron! How good a modern take would face-rifle have been for him? Ugh. But I do like it for Lockdown, it fits thematically but come on.
I may have grown up with the movies and they are what got me into Transformers, I still prefer the blaster rifle.
Personally, arm blasters/cannons for less powerful weapons and dental defence (decepticons excluded) but for more firepower, a dedicated weapon for autobots who have built in melee
Imo, Arm Cannons are alot cooler and work better for scifi/alien race all about transforming
That said, i dont think every cybertronian should have arm cannons, i feel like that makes it a bit over done, i prefer them as upgrades or something
As for blasters, i find them boring personally, but they are needed
As a kid, any feature on a toy that looked like it could fire a laser became a weapon. Lots of G1 characters had a built-in blaster or missile launcher, and my TF toys used them a lot in battles.
A friendly mix of both is nice
I always assumed the arm cannon ammo in Prime was just their Energon
to be honest, I think the existence of both could lead to some interesting stealth world building. like originally they had just the inbuilt weapons powered by their own energon reserves, but as energon became more scarce they had to switch to external weapons as to now threaten their own lives
Both? Anyone?
In my perspective, this debate should expand to arm mounted or hand held melee weapons. With arm mounted (with the exception of TF One Optimus’ energon axe), the weapon is limited to what angles the weapon is pointed due to the lack of the wrist. With hand held melee weapons, they have similar drawbacks to hand held blasters and guns.
I'm personally of the opinion that integrated weapons are okay, but only within reason. I personally view them as a sort of last resort/hold out style weapon; especially if it's powered by the user's own energy. Having additional external weapons to serve as auxiliary options to supplement their integrated weapons and bolster their arsenal makes more sense to me.
As Transformers are presented as living beings that happen to be robotic or robot-like, I always thought that the in-built weapons were like a cat’s claws, or a shark’s teeth. They are the natural weapons that are “built” inside each Transformer. The blaster guns are like us with our guns, external tools we use to kill something because we need food, or because we don’t like someone else.
My idea since I was a child is that they all have the ability to enhance themselves with weaponry, in the same way that they all have the capability to pick up and learn random weapons.
So I guess a mix of both?
But what I HIGHLY want from TF figures is weapon storage. It makes a lot of sense to have your weapons be able to integrate into your alt form if you're a transformer who fights in a war.
Depends on the series, IMO. Aesthetically, if I had to choose, hand held blaster, but both are good. 86 Optimus's flipping, shooting scene is hard to top. Same toy wise, I'm good both ways, but some handheld weapons look really nice.
Logically, I go back, and forth. It makes sense for transforming machines to have built in weaponry. But like you say, that's using internal energy, or possibly housing explosive rounds in their body. Where a handheld weapon uses external sources.
I remember in one of the Bayverse books--I think it was a prequel to Revenge of the Fallen--Ironhide straight up explains that bots that fire physical ammo need to periodically consume raw materials so their bodies can simply produce the ammo as it's needed. I think the book was called "The Veiled Threat."
Both. The way I see it, standard built-in arm cannons like what Arcee and Bumblebee have in Prime would be the equivalent of a sidearm, but things like Megatrons arm cannon, something that isn't built in but attached, seeker null rays and things like that, and weapons like Optimus's iconic gun are more powerful
Meanwhile, Gobots are just fine with *"I CAST FIST!"*
i like the idea of the built in weapons being secondary as it uses your own energy sort of a last resort, while a hand held can use alternate ammo and energy types / sources, as for melee weapons every bot should have one built in.
Generally
I prefer handheld for bots, built-in for cons
but that's not set in stone though
bonus points if the hand-held weapon is made from a part of the vehicle
Like how Bay Prime's rifles are made from the gas cans of the truck, or Generations Kup's becoming an exhaust for his pickup truck
I prefer it to be a mix with a specific logic; Integrated weaponry is more convenient, since, as you noted, integrated weaponry don't have to carry it when it's not in use, and it can't be knocked from your hand if you are knocked down, but, relying on the internal power source to power it (physical ammo isn't a factor in my headcanon for intergrated weapons) so they are not as powerful, while physically weilded weapons are more powerful, they can have some non standard ammo types, but the tradeoff is that they can be dropped.
It's things like this which make me look at Titans Return Triggerhappy, smile, and say: "if you're enough of an enthusiast, go all out."
How id do it: Built in weapons are “body modifications” that they need to have done to them, and some do it for convenience, but requires more energy from the bot as its literally part of them now. Bots like Kup would hate the idea because of how easy it can go wrong while others (like the more violent autobots or decepticons like warpath or overlord as examples) would have them to become more effective living weapons.
My personal headcanon is that typically, cybertronians dont have built in weaponry as a default, rather that was a practice seen in wartime, though often the hand held weapons are capable of folding away into a section of the armour and can be deployed when needed
Similar to what Bumblebee's _Reactivate_ figure did?
me despite being a newer fan, I think guns are cooler at times the integrated guns just kinda annoy me idk why though
Personally, I think it should depend on the character. I think most (not all) of the Autobots should have tools that are repurposed as weapons, while carrying handheld guns. Meanwhile, most (again, not all) Decepticons have built in weapons. I think another important distinction is how it is handled, I think shows like G1, Beast Wars, TFA did it right by having certain weapons have one specific place that they can come out of, such as Sideswipe's shoulder cannon, or Dinobot's tail. TFP did it stupidly by having hands of literally every character just be able to disappear and reconstruct into a gun or whatever else.
I grew up with RID 2001 through Animated, as well as a few YTV reruns of the '86 movies, so I ended up with a mix. Some weapons were integrated, some weren't. Unicron Trilogy in particular had numerous separate weapons, but the gimmicks frequently activated integrated weapons. Some integrated weapons were like '86 Hot Rod's exhaust pipe guns or Armada Megatron's tank barrel, where there's a clear delineation between "weapon" and "Not weapon" but it's not exactly like they could be removed.
To me the whole arm blaster just make more sense to me. Like using a gun is more risky per say as in when you drop it by accident. Also I assume they are more accurate when using an arm blaster than a gun since it's part of their body as in have a better sense of their aim!
I like to think that a Transformer is not firing Energon, but rather that Energon is powering a Cybertronians functions through some kind of matter converter. This could include their weapons, both melee and ranged; firing laser-bolts or physical rounds.
Demographically, I'm a a Unicron Trilogy kid
Historically, I'm more of an Arm Cannon guy, I just think it makes sense for Transformers to do that. Recently though I've been thinking that it could be fun to play with this thematically.
Have the Decepticons use integrated arm cannon like weapons to show how they've embraced a life of conquest and warfare, while the autobots use seperate weapons to show that they still hold on to their peaceful ideals. Maybe use it to underline the tragedy of the war by having the younger autobots have inegrated weapons
Whle I'm currently conflicted, I'll vote Arm cannon on basis of my historical preference
(And yes, I have seen Deadman Wonderland)
I don't mind either way, but I prefer rifles. Handheld weapons overall. For years I wanted an Optimus Prime with a large pole axe as opposed to the small hand retractable Energon axe, that desire was fulfilled in SIEGE (post Animated). Mainly because I started with Armada, a lot of my figures had rifles so I've always preferred them over arm Cannons. Arm Cannons are nice too. Both have plusses and minuses.
I prefer handheld weapons, with a built-in piece of gear that might be a gun, or might be tools, grapple lines, a magnet, etc.
Within my personal canon, internal or integrated firearms are primarily Decepticon exclusive while the Autobots have non-integrated firearms because of their origins as military and servant units. Any missile launcher you see strapped to an Autobot’s shoulder was just that- strapped to to their shoulder. Besides, I like the idea of the Decepticons living up to their name and deploying surprise weapons.
I base it off if it looks better handheld or integrated, for example I display Seige Reflector with his gun integrated ( just dont flip out the fist and plug the gun in the fist ) but Melee should always be integrated if short range ( hand axes, daggers, grappling hooks Mjolnir style hammers, and mantis blades) but large weapons like sledgehammers, longswords, spears, buster swords shpuld be separated
I think there’s a place for both, with my preference being integrated. It reinforces the idea that transformers fight with their whole body, as we saw magnificently in TFONE. This franchise is about robots who turn into stuff so it’s just furthering the idea and uniqueness of the brand, as transforming weapons or body parts is one of the things that gives transformers fights the ability to really stand out in a world where we have a LOT of fantastic action scenes in things like superhero movies.
Actually, it’s just like superheroes. You want to see a superhero fight with their powers, that’s the whole point. Transforming is the super power, so using it effectively in an integrated manner is the best way to maximize that cool factor. One of the best shots from TFONE was Optimus’ axe moving through his body to come out the other hand, you can’t do that with external weaponry
I'm of two minds about this. I like the arm gun look in the Cybertron games because they use ammo clips and not the energon of the user. For everything else,with the exception of characters like Megatron and Shockwave ,I prefer the holding a gun look but that may be because my first transformers show was Beast Wars where both of the methods were used.
As far as projectiles are concerned, I’d like the idea that they’re magnetic/rail based, feels a lot more sci-fi to me.
I prefer normal weapons, but there's nothing wrong with arm cannons. WfC/FoC had the best implementation of that; the arms turning into sockets to attach weapons onto.
I think what makes the most sense would be if some had built in weaponry while some used hand held weapons.
I love both arm cannon and handheld blaster, i think they should exist in the same continuity with different variation. Like the transformers have small cannon/taser based on their body type that use their energon for fuel so they only use it for last resort when they need to self defense. But there another version of the arm cannon that that they can attach and disattach wfc game style, but this make their hand more bulky so they drop it down after a fight, this use ammunition instead of using their energy source. Its uncomfortable to use but its practical for combat situation, this is where the blaster come to play where they can put it on there back of the transformers and more comfortable, theyre also easier to take of from the robots hand. I think different type of fire arm can be use to make characterization for each transformers, some strong one like megatron just put it on the side of his arm, some like bumblebee are small scout with small blaster/ small taser arm cannon, some more suicidal transformers use their natural arm cannon as their main weapon, maybe give the attachment to make it more powerful, the potential is endless
Personally I'd like them to have small weaponry built in them like in G1 as their back ups like pistols and knives in FPS games, with handheld weapons being the main weapons they use.
Blasters are more energon efficient, but you can loose them easily, arm cannons are cooler, and you can't really loose them, but they can drain the Transformer that wields it (unless they have their own power source inside the Transformer that we are unaware of). Anyways, blasters is what I would choose between the 2. And remember, there's a lot more weapons that don't use as much energon, like blades and shields, that can also factor in during a fight. At least, a hand to hand combat.
I think having integrated weapons makes things like the star saber or the forge of souls prime have more weight and power. Optimus with a sword coming from his forearm is dope, but him HOLDING a sword like a knight is badass
To me narratively guns make more sense and more importantly, lead to much more visually interesting action scenes or posing possibilities in figures
G1, always loved when the Weapon was part of them like Megatron or Starscream or Soundwave. Especially in beast wars where dinobots tail becomes his sword and shield and his eyes are the blaster.
I think there’s a place for both, with my preference being integrated. It reinforces the idea that transformers fight with their whole body, as we saw magnificently in TFONE. This franchise is about robots who turn into stuff so it’s just furthering the idea and uniqueness of the brand, as transforming weapons or body parts is one of the things that gives transformers fights the ability to really stand out in a world where we have a LOT of fantastic action scenes in things like superhero movies.
Actually, it’s just like superheroes. You want to see a superhero fight with their powers, that’s the whole point. Transforming is the super power, so using it effectively in an integrated manner is the best way to maximize that cool factor. One of the best shots from TFONE was Optimus’ axe moving through his body to come out the other hand, you can’t do that with external weaponry.
Like I said, I think there’s a place for both though
For me it depends on the character. To me Optimus needs his hand held rifle, Megatron needs his arm mounted canon, Starscream needs the null rays. Ironhide i prefer arm cannons but can also wield guns, Bumblebee i mean i have the Earthspark toy holding the Age of Extinction Crosshairs’ rifle blaster. I gave Strongarm 86 Arcee’s pistol cuz it look like a police officer’s. Hot Rod for me his exhausts on his arm are his blasters. But if it’s a character like movie Hound, Roadbuster, Where they’re walking arsenals, they need hand held rifles.
A combination of both is the best, which is why you typically never see just one or the other in a series. G1 has a lot of hand held blasters but also has Megatron/Galvatron, Shockwave, Seekers, with built in/attached weapons. Prime mostly uses built in but I figured that's because they're low on resources and have to use them. In season 3 they use a variety of hand held weapons. Even beast Wars has a combination, with a pretty even distribution of hand held and built in blasters
Also, Optimus Prime in Bayverse uses handheld blasters, like the one you reference in revenge of the fallen. They're stored on his back
We've actually had arm cannons since G1. Trailbreaker, Grapple, Hoist, and Inferno had them. Unless you're only counting the transformable ones. Those guys seemed to be stuck with one hand, which seems like a disadvantage. At least Ironhide could transform his hands to fire liquid nitrogen etc.
Hmm, I don't think robots would drop guns as easily as humans.
Ammo placement, using up energy. I don't think we're supposed to think that deep about this haha. But good point with Dinobot. I guess the "realism" is selectively applied haha.
I agree on having separate accessories and guns being more fun for play value purposes.
Well, arm cannons are more futuristic and alien, but it doesn't make sense the Transformers are humanoid in robot form in the first place haha.
I pretty much know who all my Transformers guns go to, except for one mystery weapon that came with my G1 Hot Spot. I found out later he is supposed to have 2 identical guns. One is the correct gun, and the other one is similar size but different, bulkier design and looks like it could attach other stuff to it. It has to be an actual Transformers weapon, because it uses a 5 millimeter port, but it doesn't go to any G1 figure, from what I can tell.
Anyway, rifles for me.
The advantage of an arm cannon is you can't be disarmed in battle unless you're literally dis-armed.
But having separate ordinance means ammo/energy is not reliant on you to power.
Also 20XX has been here for 25 (almost 26) years now, depending on what you substitute for the XX variable. 😂
I think the biggest problem with integrated weaponry is if an Autobot was captured by Decepticons, what's stopping them from cutting their arms off at the elbow to stop them from using their weapons?
I may be a Unicron Trilogy kid, but I myself prefer arm cannons for the same reason TJ prefers his Transformers noseless: they're robots! It makes more sense for a machine to have the weapon circuitry and hardware directly integrated into their systems as opposed to a handheld blaster. Plus, we have to remember that they are advanced *alien* robots. Their tech is so advanced, they might not need to have their weapons be seperate blasters, and they might also operate and fire their weaponry far differently than we would ours. And who said integrated weaponry can't be personalized or iconic? (Animated Bumblebee's stingers and G1 Hot Rod's saw come to mind) easier transportability is also another factor too: its far easier for your weapon to be hidden in Alt-Mode as an integrated weapon than if it was its own seperate firearm. Where are you gonna hide a giant ass rifle in vehicle mode? The trunk?
Also, Studio Series has proven that you absolutely CAN pull off a good arm cannon without having to detatch the arm toy wise. Studio Series Starscream with his missle canon which pegs seamlessly into the peg holes exposed by folding his hand in comes to mind.
Also, G1 megs was himself a wholeass pistol, so I think he technically counts in that regard.
Also, I always felt that it was implied that integrated weapons had their own seperate fuel cells and ammo cartriges. Hell, that's exactly the way they operated in the War for Cybertron game.
Also, I just think it looks so cool when their hands and forearms transform into the weapon itself.
Also, I vote that our next debate should be Lasers Vs. Bullets.
9:30 If I´m not wrong, Optimus´s weapons aren´t a part of his arm, but rather rifles he hand holds and stores in his back because they´re made out of his gas tanks, but I could be wrong.
It kinda depends when it comes to arm cannons I like them more when are longer than the actual arm like the 2018 version of bumblebee as opposed to the 07 look
Because I grew up with animated, I love the idea of utility tools being built in like bumblebees stingers, bulkheads wrecking ball, or ratchets claw thingos, even g1 sideswipe with his pile drivers. As you said, it makes sense for a transformer be able to turn into a weapon, but sometimes that doesn’t seem as interesting so I have this inbetween of built in utility tools. Also a big problem with the arm cannons is that they always seem to be really bad weapons. Like looking at TF Prime, those arm cannons didnt do much, like whats the point of shooting someone like megatron if it doesnt do anything. I feel like the cybertron games were a great in between, its a seperate weapon but it integrates into the cybertronians arm
I like the choice between arm cannon and arm blade like in transformers prime. They could all turn their arm into either a range weapon or a melee weapon. But some of the g1 guns are iconic like Optimus Primes ion rifle.
I grew up with G1 and I much prefer the blaster rifle. If you have a weapon built in then to me it suggests that it's always been part of you and there was never peace on Cyberton whereas a blaster means you pick it up for a reason.
I think that built in weapons should EXIST, but be a rarity. Let Megatron's fusion cannon be HIM, but the average cybertronian shouldn't be a walking weapons rack. I like the idea that a characters can lose their weapon in combat, because thats more narratively interesting. Think in Guardians 3 where Nebula can't go in to the meeting because her cybernetics are built-in weapons, which leads to Groot having to smuggle weapons in. If they all always have weapons on them, then there cant be a symbolic throwing down of the weapons for peace talks.