Other blitzwing incarnations: I posses a rare ability that allows me to transform into both a tank and a jet. Animated blitzwing: How bout I just take both ze jet and ze tank?
@@TheUncivilizedNation it’s explained in the description of one of the scrapped season 4 episodes that blackarachnia experimented on him to give him a third mode and in another one it shows that she was gonna do the same to megatron, making him unstable as well in the process
Gosh, when I was a kid I used to always think that if I could be a Transformer I’d want to be a “shifter” style Transformer that could turn into anything I wanted. I didn’t know the term “shifter” though, I just called them “all-formers”
Given Skyklik's amnesia and mysterious origins, I firmly believe that he was originally Rotorbolt until he lost his memories. (Fumes is just some other guy with the same bodytype.)
We all talk about the famous ninja consultant Sixshot's six modes, but the Headmasters anime gave him a seventh--"Wingwolf"--which looked about as haphazard as you might expect from a mode created by putting his wings out halfway into his wolf transformation.
In meta-lore most early Cybertronians were clones created by the Quintesson. Who believed that they sentience was a bug even after Alpha Trion rebellion. For most of the time Cybertronian culture was stale as result of culture lost and incapable to react on the problems, which lead to Decepticon rebellion. Which was largely outrage of displeased masses who were still treated like the saves, when they supposed to be free. Rebellion was secretly manipulated by the Unicorn cultists, but also was supported by Alpha Trion students. Because yes, Optimus Prime was a Decepticon. Due to complex circumstances Optimus was elected as next Prime, instead Megatron. What lead to rift between two. After becoming Prime, Optimus introduced concept of the Autobot focusing on the "freedom as right of every sentient being" but Decepticons undermined his effort, paying on previous betrayal and fact that Autobots were largely old Cybertronian Military and Senators. Though there were some groups of rebels who did support him. Like Wreckers or Aerobots. Anyway, reappearance of many unique groups were result of rediscovery of latent Cybertronian powers, alongside evil experiments of Shockwave. At least on side of the Decepticons, though test subjects occasionally did rebelled.
Can you do a Basics on Unreleased Transformers Toys? There are dozens of comic only characters based on toys that were never released, such as the Triple Changer Dropshot, Hardcase the flashlight from Diaclone, and even remakes of old characters like New Rodimus.
I'm very grateful to have gotten the chance to sponsor this episode of The Basics Chris, it's very well done ^^ Also as a triple changer I'd be robot to car to tank
Switchblade is the name of the Helicopter that transforms into a Jet from M.A.S.K., it is the vehicle of Miles Mayhem, the main villain of the series and leader of the evil team known as V.E.N.O.M. (Viscious Evil Network of Mayhem.)
Actually, in Japanese Transformers: Legends Manga, RID Galvatron/Devil Gigatron gained an 11th alternate mode, the Devil Ostrich. The Devil Ostrich apparently started as a fan-mode from somewhere, that was made canon in Transformers: Legends.
*Fun Fact:* The Allspark Almanac has pictures of a greyscale prototype for a Triple Changer Animated Megatron toy that would've been made had season four came to be. This Megs would not suffer the same insanity issue as Blitzwing as the in-universe explanation would simply be that the 'Cons perfected the process and ol' Blitzy was the first semi-successful 3-changer.
Actually I don't really understand what is a Duobot/Duocon, like, all Cybertronians (as long as their T-cog still function) have two shapes at least, robot mode and vehicle alt mode, right? So they are all borne duo-modes !! What EXACTLY does a Duobot/Duocon means?
@@cathy6393 They were two G1 Decepticons named Flywheels and Battletrap. They both transformed by splitting into two separate vehicles instead of having the ability to turning into two different alt modes.
@@zetaandnazboojunkie So it was like, when they transform, they'll become two parts and each half of them turns into a individual vehicle? Two vehicle combines to a whole Cybertronian?
That bot who changes from copter to jet reminds me of Miles Mayhem’s switchblade vehicle, which also changes from copter to jet. I often wondered what would have happened if it gained a robot mode or if Cyclonus was made into a triple changer.
Well, specifically, Shockwave's study of Scourge was related to his investigations into the origins of Cybertron and his finding of Alpha Trion and Vector Sigma, which in turn led to him finding and reivivng "ancient arcane sciences" that led to the creation of the Triple Changers. But - as was far too complicated to dig into in this vid, though I did think about it for a while - the unfolding of the Triple Changers' history in Dreamwave was a conflicting mess of contradictory stories; this particular account (from the "More than Meets the Eye" guidebook), also credits Springer as the first Triple Changer, created after Cybetron awoke from the Great Shutdown, while the events I've recounted in the video - which I deferred to based on that fact that they are actual in-story events instead of a guidebook writeup - depict Blitzwing developing his triple-changing, and Shockwave learning about it, millions of years before that. It's a bit of a mess!
interesting to know that the rescue bots’ toys of so many different modes aren’t just an altmode for one year’s specific gimmick, and they actually put the effort into having it make sense, bravo
THANK YOU SO MUCH AMELIA!!!!! I've been waiting for this video since I found this channel. I've created 2 triple changers: Gold Star who transformers into a classic space shuttle and a Tatra 815-290N3T; and Spring Hopper, a female transformer who changes between a sea plane and a submersible (I'm still working on the exact models for those).
I used to be all for g1 even when my kid brother watched prime 24/7 but when I finally sat down to watch prime i would certainly recommend it! 11/10... Fun fact prime got cancelled/dumbed down for being to dark after the 3rd season
Only found out about this channel recently, and appreciate all the work that goes into it! As an aside, there are two candidates for the first "three-way transforming mecha": Getter Robo, from 1974, was three mecha that could combine with each other in three different ways; meanwhile, the first mecha with a traditional 3-way transformation was Daitarn 3 from 1978.
Rba Hotshot is seriously a really superior bot not only the first rescue bot to have the most alt modes but also the first kid and I loved the episode multichange of pace where he worked so hard to gain the power to access all modes at once seriously proud of him he's my favorite along with whirl and of course I love the others too they're so adorable it's such a cute show
This was a terrific episode! I've been watching Transformers: The Basics for a long time now, and it's always a treat to see which topic you'll cover in each video. I was very excited for this episode in particular, since Triple Changers are one of my favorite types of Cybertronian, with Blitzwing being a big reason for this. But to see you cover Quadruple Changers, the famous Sixshot and his ilk, the Horrorcons and even the Shifters (I sometimes call them Omniformers) was especially exciting. By far my favorite part of the entire episode, however, was when RID 2001 Megatron (and by extension, Galvatron) got his own dedicated segment in the video. RID 2001 Megatron (I call him by his Japanese name of Gigatron to simplify things, and it just sounds cooler) has very quickly become one of my favorite incarnations of Megatron, and short of his own Basics episode, this was a brilliant tribute to him. I was really surprised to learn that the Shifters were part of the Aligned Continuity, appearing in Transformers Prime and Transformers: Robots In Disguise 2015. Prior to watching this episode, I had always assumed that Laserbeak from Dark of the Moon was the only Transformer to have this ability, but it turns out I was wrong, and there are some Transformers out there who can truly take any shape they desire, at any time. It really brings a whole new meaning to the beloved phrase "Robots in Disguise" and I love it. Finally, to answer your question at the end of the video, if I were a Triple Changer (or higher), I know for a fact that one of the modes I had would be a jet, but I honestly can't decide if my second alternate mode would be a mechanical dragon (dragons are my favorite creature, fictional or otherwise) or if it would be a tank and my robot mode would have dragon-like features (wings, claws, horns, digitigrade legs, a tail, etc.) like the Decepticons from RID 2015. Sorry for the long comment. ^^;
Honestly, part of what makes Triple Changers so hard to place toy-wise is that it's difficult to figure out what is and isn't one. A lot of toys have come with "attack modes" or whatnot that are just one of their other modes but with a bunch of weapons deployed, and most people don't consider those to be Triple Changers. But then you have, for instance, Transmetals, which technically have a third mode but it doesn't actually alter their appearance much more than most attack modes do; in plenty of cases, it's just a beast mode with jets folded out. But then, conversely, you have characters like G1 Springer, who is officially a Triple Changer but actually changes between his vehicle modes less than a lot of Transmetals do.
I was wondering if gestalts count, in that each member has a third mode as a body part. They could be disqualified, however, because they're not self-sufficient in that mode (and I'm happy to overlook RID Galvatron turning into a 'hand'). Then there's Tracks as a flying car, barely more involved than Springer's conversion, Perceptor as a tank thingy, Shockwave as a standing cannon, and of course the joy of all those 'fan modes' out there... :)
In my opinion, for something to count as a triple changer it has to change its appearance or purpose enough so you would describe it as something else. Like, take Transmetal Rattrap for instance. You have rat mode, and then you have rat with wheels mode. You still identify it as a rat, meaning it hasn't changed enough. If we compare that to Springer, you'd describe his modes as helicopter mode and car mode. Each mode is distinct enough that you can tell it's something different and not just a car with a propeller. Attack modes (and transport modes) shouldn't count for triple changing purposes, otherwise you could argue that "Optimus Prime with a Gun" is a different mode from "Optimus Prime without a Gun".
@@leetri The thing is, G1 Springer's car mode really does look like a helicopter with the propeller and tail taken off. The only thing really marking it as a car is that it has two wheels in the front. Compare that to Transmetals like Waspinator or Rampage that really do change their whole silhouette and are visibly trying to be some kind of vehicle. Of course, a lot of that is just that G1 Springer is a pretty crap toy.
An excellent video, glad you covered this. I only learned of the jet helicopter figure a couple of years back, but I didn't know that it had been the basis for any Transformers, though I probably would have named it Switchblade (after the MASK vehicle). For the record, there was a fan page from many years ago that stated that the reason why there are only 6 original Triple Changers was because Triple Changers were defined as regular sized Transformers who had 3 distinct, separate forms, specifically a robot and two vehicle forms. Metroplex, Trypticon, Fortress Maximus, and Scorponok were much larger and possibly had auxiliary systems to enable them to transform, so were exempt under this defintion. The combining team members all had 3 forms, but their third form was a module, not a separate form. Punch and Double Dealer had one vehicle form and two robot (or animal) forms, so are also disqualified under this old definition. However, would love to hear your thoughts on this. Thanks for another great video, looking forward to your next one.
Boadside’s Nimitz class aircraft carrier/F/A-18 Hornet alt modes are an example of transformations that have no logic whatsoever, but are just plain awesome!
YEEEEEEEES! Me too,...honestly I haven't seen him in later transformes continuities, so I would love to see how history took care of him. (Yes, I know I can just check transformers wiki for that, but Chris knows how to make it more entertaining) Same goes for Deathsaurus and Trypticon...characters with interesting feachers and looks, that I don't know that much about.
This is gonna be an absolutely random choice of alt modes: I'd be a beast machine with an orca alt mode and an elephant alt mode. Also, can we get a basics video on Conjunx Endura?
I find it interesting that in the cartoons, Blitzwing and Astrotrain could increase to immense size in plane mode so they could be used as troop transports. The same happened with Autobot Skyfire. They were retreating from Decepticons and everyone climbed inside him to escape and plan a counterattack.
As a kid, I was completely enthralled with AstroTrain. The Decepticons definitely had the better bots. Also loved Shockwave. That one-eyed bastard was such a badass...transforming into a 13-in. long purple gun--just awesome! Sadly, I lost track of my kickass collection as I matured into adulthood. My collection would've snagged some major $$ to this day. Never would've sold, obviously. But I do wonder what the hell ever became of my collection.
Kinda like the name SkyClick. I also always forget Sandstorm is a thing, and that Springer can turn into a car. Still my fav will always be the master ninja SixShot. Also not enough triple changers have water forms so I'd love to see a sub and jet cause of my love of Final Fantasy V's airship.
He has two robot modes, but only one vehicle mode. Animated Shockwave took it a step further by having two alternate modes: a Cybertronian tank for himself and a Cybertronian crane for his Autobot persona.
I would argue that the question comes down to if Counterpunch is considered an alternate mode, or not. On one hand, he’s a disguise that Punch uses for espionage, but on the other hand, Counterpunch develops his own personality in some continuities.🤔
I would consider Punch/CounterPunch a Triple Changer because he's a car and has TWO robot modes, I mean, a Transformer with more than one robot mode is fascinating to me, and the only other Transformer I know of with that ability is Animated Shockwave. I could be wrong, but like I said those are the only ones I know of that can do that. Anyway, I would call Punch/CounterPunch a Triple Changer
We really need an episode on the Dreamwave G1 continuity and what lead to its fall. So many ideas were introduced here that is still being referenced years after they ended.
I was so fascinated by triple changers, I build a Lego with four modes like Optimal Optimus. A robot, jet, car and beast mode. These days Lego and 30 Minute Missions give me ideas and hope for so many alternate modes.
Love your work always, there's also a Autobot in the Unicron trilogy in the Dreamwave comics and Energon comics, named Dropshot that had F-15 jet mode and a "horse/llama" like beast mode. I hope him and Fumes get real recognized figures, I can't wait for the next video
Galvatron counts as a triple changer doesn't he? Robot, cannon and laser pistol. Do the Special Team leaders (Silverbolt, Hot Spot, Onslaught, Motormaster, Scattershot) who have third modes that connect to Metroplex and Trypticon and the Seacons (with the exception of Snap Trap) who also turn into guns count as Triple Changers?.
Same for Megatron, there are some versions of the character where he has both a tank and a jet as alt modes, and those are usually my ideal versions of the character
8:40 Man dreamwave is so good, I love how in-depth it gets with the universe and the fact that they use the explanation of cybertronians be actual living organisms(I prefer that explanation)
For me, an ideal triple changer would be a VW Beetle or some other rounded vehicle, and an orca - there's something about being able to drive into the water and then change into a whale that's appealing to me. Awesome video Chris!
I’ve always been confused about if the other 12 could transform if Amalgamous was the one with that specifically noted ability. And if I could triple change? Some kinda fast VTOL, and maybe a motorcycle. The mass makes no sense so perhaps a slick car instead. As always your videos are a real treat to me, so thanks for all the hard work you do
Personally, I think that Triple Changers are by far one of the most brilliant ideas that ever came out of transformers designing-wise...right after Sixshot and Quickswitch.
Quite informative, if I were to choose two alt-modes they would probably be a YF-23 black-widow 2 with royal blue highlights and a royal blue 1966 Ford Mustang fastback
Bqck when kids thought a triple changer was the most badass thing for a character. Till Optimal Optimus came along with four modes! Unfortunately, he was taken down by Galvatron/Devil Gigatron...
In my opinion, the helicopter/jet Triple Changer deserves an update. Yeah his choices in alt modes may look silly but a update to him is worthwhile. Hopefully he will be released in the toyline after Kingdom
Seconded, I love the idea of him being a jet that predates VTOL so you could get great animated shots of the helicopter taking off then quickly shifting into this classic aircraft that probably wouldn't have a pricey licence attached to it..
@@Gigas0101 As well as the functions of the mode. Like how he can use his jet mode for speed while he uses his helicopter mode for manoeuvrability and landing etc.
Hmm, while I'm working on a fanmade Six Changer character, I've been thinking about a female Autobot triple changer. I was thinking of calling her, Triple Crown. Her alternate forms would an amphibious craft and a VTOL. So she'd cover land, water, and air missions.
I've watched, I think, all of your Basics series on youtube and I think this may be my favorite. I've no doubt you could have gone on for another 20 or 30 minutes with all the material available. Well done. I was a big fan of the Horrorcons and "accidental" triple changers like Scattershot of the Technobots... all the cities with land rover modes, and, of course, Springer who was always a bit TOO much the jock while somehow remaining likeable. I'm of the opinion that Elita 1, Chromia, and Arcee should all have been triple changers. It's time to see a fembot multichanger. Looking forward to it. Nice work, Chris. As always.
I always find Astrotrain's alt modes funny because he has two of the most limited alt modes ever like a train? only works on tracks bro, a space shuttle? yeah it only works on space bro.
I have made a few triple changer ocs some time ago, I still use them in my made up stories. Here is a list. Skyraider: BR 9F loco to jet fighter. Railrider: LNER Class Y7 loco to a small lorry (road alt mode still on drawing board and may change). Spindle: (based on Airachnid but as an autobot) from helicopter to spider. I personally would pick Skyraider's modes. I have 3 more triple changers but I'm not sure how they would work.
A term haphazardly applied indeed. Notably, as much as I love the designs, I wouldn't really regard most Transmetals as true triple changes. They usually only had two fully distinct modes, robot/beast, while their "third" mode was most typically just the beast mode with an added mobility feature.
i knew this was gonna be a good episode 😃 ive already watched it several times. i like the idea of learning the ability to have multiple modes. im just glad we ddint see anything untoward happen to blitzwing as his being experimented on by shockwave gave me flashbacks to that scene where blitzwing was dissected by the humans. very traumatic stuff there.
The best thing about the 2001 robots in disguise megatron toy is just finding out how many modes you can create
I think that's why they named him Gigatron in Japan and kept that name when he was introduced in the IDW G1 run with Drift
@@smedleyprime1514 speaking of g1 who do you think would win? G1 megatron or robots in disguise megatron?
@@andrewmunro4884 probably RiD Megatron, though it would be more interesting to see BW Megatron meet G1
I actually have created custom alt modes for Springer so I was able to make 4 more.
A tank, a spaceship, a frog, and a war robot.
@@EthanC-km6ku noice 🙂👌
Other blitzwing incarnations: I posses a rare ability that allows me to transform into both a tank and a jet.
Animated blitzwing: How bout I just take both ze jet and ze tank?
I am reminded of the Devastation incarnation
Doesn’t Animated Blitzwing have multiple personality disorder. I thought it was a malfunction in his processor that allows for triple changing
@@TheUncivilizedNation it’s explained in the description of one of the scrapped season 4 episodes that blackarachnia experimented on him to give him a third mode and in another one it shows that she was gonna do the same to megatron, making him unstable as well in the process
“WHY NOT SCAN BOTH?”
Nice, you even added his German accent.
That shot of Dropkick and Shatter charging is probably the best shot in all the live action movies.
Blitzwing VS Bumblebee is up there for me, though the double triple change of Dropkick and Shatter is still legendary.
It kind of reminiscent of Sandstorm and Broadside from their commercial.
Best shot in the bumblebee movie, out of all the live action movies? Bit of a stretch
I don't know, how about the opening scene of Bumblebee?
Seeing them actually growing the kibble was so fucking cool
Gosh, when I was a kid I used to always think that if I could be a Transformer I’d want to be a “shifter” style Transformer that could turn into anything I wanted. I didn’t know the term “shifter” though, I just called them “all-formers”
That's a great term :D
Multi-changers sounds more like it would be the correct way to say it. But All-formers goes better for the franchise.
@@MrBee8000 Omni-Changer?
@@concept5631Oh that good
That is both ironic and cute
Given Skyklik's amnesia and mysterious origins, I firmly believe that he was originally Rotorbolt until he lost his memories.
(Fumes is just some other guy with the same bodytype.)
Skylynx*
@@raazaqandraaz No, I'm pretty sure that Skyklik is not an amnesiac Sky Lynx.
@@raazaqandraaz Skylynx is a shuttle/dinosaur thing, Skyklik is different. You would know if you watched the video.
@@raazaqandraaz ya
@@syweb2 ya that’s right and he’s NEW toy had a shuttle platform base
We all talk about the famous ninja consultant Sixshot's six modes, but the Headmasters anime gave him a seventh--"Wingwolf"--which looked about as haphazard as you might expect from a mode created by putting his wings out halfway into his wolf transformation.
That's dumb as heck, byt I mean that in the nicest way possible.
Triple changers intrigued me so much that i made i my lifelong aim to build lego transformers from them, even unreleased g1 prototypes .
In meta-lore most early Cybertronians were clones created by the Quintesson. Who believed that they sentience was a bug even after Alpha Trion rebellion. For most of the time Cybertronian culture was stale as result of culture lost and incapable to react on the problems, which lead to Decepticon rebellion. Which was largely outrage of displeased masses who were still treated like the saves, when they supposed to be free. Rebellion was secretly manipulated by the Unicorn cultists, but also was supported by Alpha Trion students. Because yes, Optimus Prime was a Decepticon. Due to complex circumstances Optimus was elected as next Prime, instead Megatron. What lead to rift between two. After becoming Prime, Optimus introduced concept of the Autobot focusing on the "freedom as right of every sentient being" but Decepticons undermined his effort, paying on previous betrayal and fact that Autobots were largely old Cybertronian Military and Senators. Though there were some groups of rebels who did support him. Like Wreckers or Aerobots. Anyway, reappearance of many unique groups were result of rediscovery of latent Cybertronian powers, alongside evil experiments of Shockwave. At least on side of the Decepticons, though test subjects occasionally did rebelled.
hey i've seen some of your lego creations, they look really good
Can you do a Basics on Unreleased Transformers Toys? There are dozens of comic only characters based on toys that were never released, such as the Triple Changer Dropshot, Hardcase the flashlight from Diaclone, and even remakes of old characters like New Rodimus.
Oh, this is a good one!
And Wipe-Out, who's based on a Crankcase prototype.
Like Dotm Blaster, dude I'm still salty about that one, the headsculpt was so dope
Oh, and the plethora of unreleased Arcees.
@@mechanwhal6590 and the prototypes of unicron
I'm very grateful to have gotten the chance to sponsor this episode of The Basics Chris, it's very well done ^^
Also as a triple changer I'd be robot to car to tank
Thanks this was a great episode.
For me a stealth bomber to sportscar
Great pick!
For me a jet to a watercraft
Id like a flat-faced freightliner truck (like Optimus in the cartoons) and a Heavily modified Helicopter.
I like the idea of the Copter guy being named Switchblade. I can't remember where i heard it, but it sounds so cool.
If you're referring to the name, was it from Transformers: Universe?
@@robrice7246 idk
Switchblade is the name of the Helicopter that transforms into a Jet from M.A.S.K., it is the vehicle of Miles Mayhem, the main villain of the series and leader of the evil team known as V.E.N.O.M. (Viscious Evil Network of Mayhem.)
Actually, in Japanese Transformers: Legends Manga, RID Galvatron/Devil Gigatron gained an 11th alternate mode, the Devil Ostrich. The Devil Ostrich apparently started as a fan-mode from somewhere, that was made canon in Transformers: Legends.
*Fun Fact:* The Allspark Almanac has pictures of a greyscale prototype for a Triple Changer Animated Megatron toy that would've been made had season four came to be. This Megs would not suffer the same insanity issue as Blitzwing as the in-universe explanation would simply be that the 'Cons perfected the process and ol' Blitzy was the first semi-successful 3-changer.
The Duocons were the result of a failed attempt by Shockwave trying to create Triple Changers.
Actually I don't really understand what is a Duobot/Duocon, like, all Cybertronians (as long as their T-cog still function) have two shapes at least, robot mode and vehicle alt mode, right? So they are all borne duo-modes !! What EXACTLY does a Duobot/Duocon means?
@@cathy6393 They were two G1 Decepticons named Flywheels and Battletrap. They both transformed by splitting into two separate vehicles instead of having the ability to turning into two different alt modes.
@@zetaandnazboojunkie So it was like, when they transform, they'll become two parts and each half of them turns into a individual vehicle? Two vehicle combines to a whole Cybertronian?
@@cathy6393 Yes
@@crustypaladin Okay, thank you!!
That bot who changes from copter to jet reminds me of Miles Mayhem’s switchblade vehicle, which also changes from copter to jet. I often wondered what would have happened if it gained a robot mode or if Cyclonus was made into a triple changer.
Which leads us into IDW's Hasbroverse stuff, which based MASK's vehicles on experimentation on Blitzwing...
@@slacknhash good point I forgot about that.
Also in the Dreamwave Comics, Shockwave deactivating Scourge and studying his body was another reason for the creation of the Triple Changers.
Well, specifically, Shockwave's study of Scourge was related to his investigations into the origins of Cybertron and his finding of Alpha Trion and Vector Sigma, which in turn led to him finding and reivivng "ancient arcane sciences" that led to the creation of the Triple Changers. But - as was far too complicated to dig into in this vid, though I did think about it for a while - the unfolding of the Triple Changers' history in Dreamwave was a conflicting mess of contradictory stories; this particular account (from the "More than Meets the Eye" guidebook), also credits Springer as the first Triple Changer, created after Cybetron awoke from the Great Shutdown, while the events I've recounted in the video - which I deferred to based on that fact that they are actual in-story events instead of a guidebook writeup - depict Blitzwing developing his triple-changing, and Shockwave learning about it, millions of years before that. It's a bit of a mess!
I really hope Nightbeat gets an episode.
The episode needs to have saxophone jazz and rain sound effects play the whole time to get that proper Nightbeat noire feeling
Agreed
She all rediy dus
@@donnawilkie7480 that’s Nightbird, Nightbeat is an Autobot Detective.
interesting to know that the rescue bots’ toys of so many different modes aren’t just an altmode for one year’s specific gimmick, and they actually put the effort into having it make sense, bravo
THANK YOU SO MUCH AMELIA!!!!! I've been waiting for this video since I found this channel. I've created 2 triple changers: Gold Star who transformers into a classic space shuttle and a Tatra 815-290N3T; and Spring Hopper, a female transformer who changes between a sea plane and a submersible (I'm still working on the exact models for those).
Having not watched Prime, learning of the Shifters was quite neat. Thanks for another great episode!
I actually forgot that they were in the show.
If you get time, you should watch prime. It starts off a bit rushed but the entire show is enjoyable.
@@JPOG7TV For sure, the show's got a few faults here and there but it's probably my favourite series!
I used to be all for g1 even when my kid brother watched prime 24/7 but when I finally sat down to watch prime i would certainly recommend it! 11/10... Fun fact prime got cancelled/dumbed down for being to dark after the 3rd season
@@ryanmeighen4146 That's dumb that they canceled it..
Blitzwing is always one of my favorite characters.
Fun fact: since one of Dai Atlas'forms is simply his drill tank mode with the wings unfolded Tfwiki described him as a three and a half-changer
Only found out about this channel recently, and appreciate all the work that goes into it! As an aside, there are two candidates for the first "three-way transforming mecha": Getter Robo, from 1974, was three mecha that could combine with each other in three different ways; meanwhile, the first mecha with a traditional 3-way transformation was Daitarn 3 from 1978.
Getter robo was combining jets into 3 unique configurations, but Daitarn 3 is probably the first one could consider a triple changer as we know it now
Rba Hotshot is seriously a really superior bot not only the first rescue bot to have the most alt modes but also the first kid and I loved the episode multichange of pace where he worked so hard to gain the power to access all modes at once seriously proud of him he's my favorite along with whirl and of course I love the others too they're so adorable it's such a cute show
This was a terrific episode! I've been watching Transformers: The Basics for a long time now, and it's always a treat to see which topic you'll cover in each video. I was very excited for this episode in particular, since Triple Changers are one of my favorite types of Cybertronian, with Blitzwing being a big reason for this. But to see you cover Quadruple Changers, the famous Sixshot and his ilk, the Horrorcons and even the Shifters (I sometimes call them Omniformers) was especially exciting. By far my favorite part of the entire episode, however, was when RID 2001 Megatron (and by extension, Galvatron) got his own dedicated segment in the video. RID 2001 Megatron (I call him by his Japanese name of Gigatron to simplify things, and it just sounds cooler) has very quickly become one of my favorite incarnations of Megatron, and short of his own Basics episode, this was a brilliant tribute to him.
I was really surprised to learn that the Shifters were part of the Aligned Continuity, appearing in Transformers Prime and Transformers: Robots In Disguise 2015. Prior to watching this episode, I had always assumed that Laserbeak from Dark of the Moon was the only Transformer to have this ability, but it turns out I was wrong, and there are some Transformers out there who can truly take any shape they desire, at any time. It really brings a whole new meaning to the beloved phrase "Robots in Disguise" and I love it.
Finally, to answer your question at the end of the video, if I were a Triple Changer (or higher), I know for a fact that one of the modes I had would be a jet, but I honestly can't decide if my second alternate mode would be a mechanical dragon (dragons are my favorite creature, fictional or otherwise) or if it would be a tank and my robot mode would have dragon-like features (wings, claws, horns, digitigrade legs, a tail, etc.) like the Decepticons from RID 2015. Sorry for the long comment. ^^;
I love the extreme levels of transformers passion pouring out of this comment!
I’d pick a Chevy Avalanche and a black & red dragon for alternate modes.
Triple changers!
I'd choose a dark blue modern Fiat 500 and a white and blue Cessna 172 for my alternate modes.
from a cool dragon to a car
Psuedo and RID Galvatron will always be my favourite multichanger.
Honestly, part of what makes Triple Changers so hard to place toy-wise is that it's difficult to figure out what is and isn't one. A lot of toys have come with "attack modes" or whatnot that are just one of their other modes but with a bunch of weapons deployed, and most people don't consider those to be Triple Changers. But then you have, for instance, Transmetals, which technically have a third mode but it doesn't actually alter their appearance much more than most attack modes do; in plenty of cases, it's just a beast mode with jets folded out. But then, conversely, you have characters like G1 Springer, who is officially a Triple Changer but actually changes between his vehicle modes less than a lot of Transmetals do.
Plus gerwalk modes where it's just the vehicle with some limbs poking out.
I was wondering if gestalts count, in that each member has a third mode as a body part. They could be disqualified, however, because they're not self-sufficient in that mode (and I'm happy to overlook RID Galvatron turning into a 'hand').
Then there's Tracks as a flying car, barely more involved than Springer's conversion, Perceptor as a tank thingy, Shockwave as a standing cannon, and of course the joy of all those 'fan modes' out there... :)
In my opinion, for something to count as a triple changer it has to change its appearance or purpose enough so you would describe it as something else. Like, take Transmetal Rattrap for instance. You have rat mode, and then you have rat with wheels mode. You still identify it as a rat, meaning it hasn't changed enough. If we compare that to Springer, you'd describe his modes as helicopter mode and car mode. Each mode is distinct enough that you can tell it's something different and not just a car with a propeller.
Attack modes (and transport modes) shouldn't count for triple changing purposes, otherwise you could argue that "Optimus Prime with a Gun" is a different mode from "Optimus Prime without a Gun".
@@leetri The thing is, G1 Springer's car mode really does look like a helicopter with the propeller and tail taken off. The only thing really marking it as a car is that it has two wheels in the front. Compare that to Transmetals like Waspinator or Rampage that really do change their whole silhouette and are visibly trying to be some kind of vehicle.
Of course, a lot of that is just that G1 Springer is a pretty crap toy.
No small mentions of the Infinites and the Mutacons at least? Awh. Great episode either way!
A Bulldozer and Helicopter Gunship as a Decepticon. A Fire Truck and Water Bomber as an Autobot.
joe bidn
Wait what?
@@wolfgang6442 I have no idea what he meant either.
I'd have a dragon and ship as a decepticon and a spider and tank as an autobot.
@@deathserpent9747 What kind of ship?
An excellent video, glad you covered this. I only learned of the jet helicopter figure a couple of years back, but I didn't know that it had been the basis for any Transformers, though I probably would have named it Switchblade (after the MASK vehicle). For the record, there was a fan page from many years ago that stated that the reason why there are only 6 original Triple Changers was because Triple Changers were defined as regular sized Transformers who had 3 distinct, separate forms, specifically a robot and two vehicle forms. Metroplex, Trypticon, Fortress Maximus, and Scorponok were much larger and possibly had auxiliary systems to enable them to transform, so were exempt under this defintion. The combining team members all had 3 forms, but their third form was a module, not a separate form. Punch and Double Dealer had one vehicle form and two robot (or animal) forms, so are also disqualified under this old definition. However, would love to hear your thoughts on this. Thanks for another great video, looking forward to your next one.
Boadside’s Nimitz class aircraft carrier/F/A-18 Hornet alt modes are an example of transformations that have no logic whatsoever, but are just plain awesome!
I think Tracks is something of a triple changer given the fact that his car mode can spring wings and fly.
Galvatron from rid had the 11th mode from its creator Devil Ostrich, it’s noted on the wiki
You should make a video on all the sub factions besides decepticons and autobots in the transformers universe
How can amazing content like this have 6 dislikes. This is quality people...
Missing mention of the character Dropshot from Armada who alternately had a Horse and Jet.
😁👍
Scorponok's jet modes badass, they've gotta make that a thing again
Triple-changers are some of my favourite transformers, here’s hoping we get an episode dedicated to Astrotrain since he’s my favourite of them
YEEEEEEEES! Me too,...honestly I haven't seen him in later transformes continuities, so I would love to see how history took care of him. (Yes, I know I can just check transformers wiki for that, but Chris knows how to make it more entertaining) Same goes for Deathsaurus and Trypticon...characters with interesting feachers and looks, that I don't know that much about.
This is gonna be an absolutely random choice of alt modes: I'd be a beast machine with an orca alt mode and an elephant alt mode. Also, can we get a basics video on Conjunx Endura?
These videos always manage to brighten my day
I find it interesting that in the cartoons, Blitzwing and Astrotrain could increase to immense size in plane mode so they could be used as troop transports. The same happened with Autobot Skyfire. They were retreating from Decepticons and everyone climbed inside him to escape and plan a counterattack.
Gotta admit, props for fitting such a massive topic into an 11 minute vid. I imagine that was no small endeavor.
*There's only one word to describe it: AMAZING!!!*
As a kid, I was completely enthralled with AstroTrain. The Decepticons definitely had the better bots. Also loved Shockwave. That one-eyed bastard was such a badass...transforming into a 13-in. long purple gun--just awesome! Sadly, I lost track of my kickass collection as I matured into adulthood. My collection would've snagged some major $$ to this day. Never would've sold, obviously. But I do wonder what the hell ever became of my collection.
I love how passionate Chris is about his work
Love the channel buddy keep it up!
Kinda like the name SkyClick. I also always forget Sandstorm is a thing, and that Springer can turn into a car. Still my fav will always be the master ninja SixShot. Also not enough triple changers have water forms so I'd love to see a sub and jet cause of my love of Final Fantasy V's airship.
Awesome video! This made me think, though, would Punch/Counterpunch be considered a triple changer? Maybe by technicality but probably not in universe
He has two robot modes, but only one vehicle mode. Animated Shockwave took it a step further by having two alternate modes: a Cybertronian tank for himself and a Cybertronian crane for his Autobot persona.
I would argue that the question comes down to if Counterpunch is considered an alternate mode, or not. On one hand, he’s a disguise that Punch uses for espionage, but on the other hand, Counterpunch develops his own personality in some continuities.🤔
Also, what about the Seacons? They all have Bot mode, Alt mode, Limb mode and Weapon mode. Could they be considered Quad Changing Target masters?
This has turned out to be a FANTASTIC episode!!!
Dragonsaurus. Alt modes: T-Rex & Dragon. (Something like deathsaurus, btw an episode on deathsaurus would be interesting)
I would consider Punch/CounterPunch a Triple Changer because he's a car and has TWO robot modes, I mean, a Transformer with more than one robot mode is fascinating to me, and the only other Transformer I know of with that ability is Animated Shockwave. I could be wrong, but like I said those are the only ones I know of that can do that. Anyway, I would call Punch/CounterPunch a Triple Changer
We really need an episode on the Dreamwave G1 continuity and what lead to its fall. So many ideas were introduced here that is still being referenced years after they ended.
Dreamwave had the best interpretation of Transformers in print media IMHO
@@brandonandcharlene9527 I prefer IDW, but there's a lot of good stuff in Dreamwave. Shame about what happened there.
This video was awesome! Thank you!
Blitzwing: Why settle for 2 forms when 3 can win the day!
6 Shot: Ahem! Try double that!!!
Galvatron (RiD): How cute!
Okay, that last bit? loved that! Great work
Cant imagine how much effort it takes to make a tripple changer toy in the old days or even worse, a sixshot toy
Brilliant video, compelling viewing. Was expecting Punch/Counterpunch to get a mention as a rare oddity of 1 alt but 2 bot modes.
well the triple changing in the aligned continuity started with wfc soundwave, instead of in transformers prime
As someone who owns the original Optimal Optimus he's just as magical now as he was when I got him in the late 90s. Very Prime.
Punch/Counterpunch should have gotten a mention here. He technically has 3 modes, even if only one of them is an "Alt mode".
I was so fascinated by triple changers, I build a Lego with four modes like Optimal Optimus. A robot, jet, car and beast mode. These days Lego and 30 Minute Missions give me ideas and hope for so many alternate modes.
I look forward to the day the Horrorcons get an episode.
Love your work always, there's also a Autobot in the Unicron trilogy in the Dreamwave comics and Energon comics, named Dropshot that had F-15 jet mode and a "horse/llama" like beast mode.
I hope him and Fumes get real recognized figures, I can't wait for the next video
Galvatron counts as a triple changer doesn't he? Robot, cannon and laser pistol. Do the Special Team leaders (Silverbolt, Hot Spot, Onslaught, Motormaster, Scattershot) who have third modes that connect to Metroplex and Trypticon and the Seacons (with the exception of Snap Trap) who also turn into guns count as Triple Changers?.
I was going to say the same about gen1 Megatron. Bot, cannon and gun.
Same for Megatron, there are some versions of the character where he has both a tank and a jet as alt modes, and those are usually my ideal versions of the character
8:40 Man dreamwave is so good, I love how in-depth it gets with the universe and the fact that they use the explanation of cybertronians be actual living organisms(I prefer that explanation)
Shifters be like:
How many alternate modes do you got?
Shifters: yes
Great Aligned explanation!
A burning Flying Phoenix, and a Ripsaw-Eve Vehicle armed with a cannon.
I always loved Blitzwing and Skytrain, and I have a Sixshot IOP. Very cool!
7:53. Man I miss Dreamwave, they did more quality storytelling in 2 years than IDW has in the last 15.
For me, an ideal triple changer would be a VW Beetle or some other rounded vehicle, and an orca - there's something about being able to drive into the water and then change into a whale that's appealing to me. Awesome video Chris!
My head canon version is that triple changers were created with an extra t-cog.
I’ve always been confused about if the other 12 could transform if Amalgamous was the one with that specifically noted ability. And if I could triple change? Some kinda fast VTOL, and maybe a motorcycle. The mass makes no sense so perhaps a slick car instead. As always your videos are a real treat to me, so thanks for all the hard work you do
My alt modes of choice? Eurofighter Typhoon for air and Nissan Patrol 3rd Gen for land.
Personally, I think that Triple Changers are by far one of the most brilliant ideas that ever came out of transformers designing-wise...right after Sixshot and Quickswitch.
Quite informative, if I were to choose two alt-modes they would probably be a YF-23 black-widow 2 with royal blue highlights and a royal blue 1966 Ford Mustang fastback
Bqck when kids thought a triple changer was the most badass thing for a character. Till Optimal Optimus came along with four modes! Unfortunately, he was taken down by Galvatron/Devil Gigatron...
Members of Combiner teams are technically triple changers as well. Some have even more modes. The Seacons have 5.
FINALLY!! Triple Changers!!!!!!!! Now all I need is an episode on Astrotrain and Trypticon,...for now :)))
4:52 Not anymore! The new Studio Series Concept Art Megatron has the most alt modes, as made by fans.
Nice video Chris. If I was a triple change then my two alternate modes would most likely be a 2007 Ford Mustang and an F-15 Eagle.
In my opinion, the helicopter/jet Triple Changer deserves an update. Yeah his choices in alt modes may look silly but a update to him is worthwhile. Hopefully he will be released in the toyline after Kingdom
Seconded, I love the idea of him being a jet that predates VTOL so you could get great animated shots of the helicopter taking off then quickly shifting into this classic aircraft that probably wouldn't have a pricey licence attached to it..
@@Gigas0101 As well as the functions of the mode. Like how he can use his jet mode for speed while he uses his helicopter mode for manoeuvrability and landing etc.
I still remember getting Blitzwing for my birthday and being amazed. Three modes? Mind = Blown.
Hmm, while I'm working on a fanmade Six Changer character, I've been thinking about a female Autobot triple changer. I was thinking of calling her, Triple Crown. Her alternate forms would an amphibious craft and a VTOL. So she'd cover land, water, and air missions.
Very cool and the history/back stories are great!!
My most favourite kind of multi changer are the ones with vehicle and beast modes. Sixshot and double dealer are my favourite figures.
So is megatron a triple-changer? Since he can transform into a tank or cybertronian jet or *GUN.*
I've watched, I think, all of your Basics series on youtube and I think this may be my favorite. I've no doubt you could have gone on for another 20 or 30 minutes with all the material available. Well done. I was a big fan of the Horrorcons and "accidental" triple changers like Scattershot of the Technobots... all the cities with land rover modes, and, of course, Springer who was always a bit TOO much the jock while somehow remaining likeable. I'm of the opinion that Elita 1, Chromia, and Arcee should all have been triple changers. It's time to see a fembot multichanger. Looking forward to it. Nice work, Chris. As always.
Awesome! I always learn so much from your vids!👍😁
I always find Astrotrain's alt modes funny because he has two of the most limited alt modes ever like a train? only works on tracks bro, a space shuttle? yeah it only works on space bro.
I have made a few triple changer ocs some time ago, I still use them in my made up stories. Here is a list.
Skyraider: BR 9F loco to jet fighter.
Railrider: LNER Class Y7 loco to a small lorry (road alt mode still on drawing board and may change).
Spindle: (based on Airachnid but as an autobot) from helicopter to spider.
I personally would pick Skyraider's modes. I have 3 more triple changers but I'm not sure how they would work.
Great episode. Now we need an episode about the more limited types like the Duocons or the Clones.
Never knew about that last one, fab! 👍
I really want soundwave to be bigger slightly taller than starscream and he’s a triple changer
Truth is the bad guy's have so much cooler Alt. Modes, almost as if Decepticon means something.
Land, sea, air, and space modes along with the base robot. So I probably be a five changer/ penta changer or whatever.
If I was a triple changer, I would transform into a Robot, a Tyrannosaurus Rex, and a Tank.
A term haphazardly applied indeed. Notably, as much as I love the designs, I wouldn't really regard most Transmetals as true triple changes. They usually only had two fully distinct modes, robot/beast, while their "third" mode was most typically just the beast mode with an added mobility feature.
This was great! I would definitely prefer to have the Alt-modes like Springer if I was a Triple changer.
i knew this was gonna be a good episode 😃 ive already watched it several times. i like the idea of learning the ability to have multiple modes. im just glad we ddint see anything untoward happen to blitzwing as his being experimented on by shockwave gave me flashbacks to that scene where blitzwing was dissected by the humans. very traumatic stuff there.
This one must've been super challenging to write.