Dating back to the original Generation 1 era in 1984, the Dinobots are some of Transformers’ most iconic Autobot characters, combining epic dinosaur transformations with larger-than-life personalities that have made them fan favorites for decades. Now, a new era is on the horizon for these iconic characters, with the franchise announcing their epic return in Spring 2027.
At New York Comic Con 2026, Skybound and Image Comics revealed a slew of upcoming series and storylines. Among the most notable is the announcement that Robert Kirkman’s ongoing Transformers series will finally bring the Dinobots into the Energon Universe with the March 10, 2027 release of Transformers #42.
While the synopsis mentions only Grimlock, the main cover by artist Jason Howard also spotlights Slug, Sludge, and Swoop, along with the Tyrannosaurus rex Autobot. Notably absent, however, is Snarl, the Stegosaurus Dinobot. However, given that four of the original five Dinobots are featured on the cover, we’re confident that Snarl will also appear in the narrative. His absence from the main cover was likely an artistic choice by Howard rather than an indication he will be excluded from the story.
Beyond the reveal that the original Dinobots are finally joining the Energon Universe, Transformers fans will also be ecstatic to learn that Dan Mora is returning as the issue’s lead artist. It’s still unclear whether he’ll return for the entire storyline or just as a guest artist, but either way, fans will be eating GOOD with Transformers #42.
The Dinobots Will Make Their Energon Universe Debut In 2027, With Artist Dan Mora Returning
Main Cover by Jason Howard for Transformers #42 (2027)
Writer Robert Kirkman, artist Dan Mora, and colorist Mike Spicer coming together for Transformers #42 will likely feel like a dream come true for most fans, as this is a top-tier creative team. The fact that these creators will work together to introduce the Dinobots to the Energon Universe makes their debut all the more notable. While we can expect Mora to respect the characters’ classic designs, it will undoubtedly be awesome to see them brought to life in his fan-beloved art style.
While much remains to be seen when it comes to this new Dinobot era in the Energon Universe, Skybound did provide a succinct and humorous synopsis for the issue: “The Dinobots are here! Me Grimlock make most anticipated Energon Universe debut.” In addition to this synopsis and Howard’s main cover, fans were also treated to an early first look at variant covers by Daniel Warren Johnson and Jorge Corona, both featuring colors by Spicer.
We may not know exactly what to expect as the Dinobots embark on this new chapter in their ever-expanding legacy, but their arrival signals a major development for the Energon Universe, as an exceptionally important part of the Transformers franchise is finally being introduced into this continuity. Narratively, given the Dinobots’ tremendous strength and destructive capabilities, their arrival could shift the power dynamics of the ongoing conflict between the Autobots and Decepticons.
Which Dinobot are you most excited to see join Skybound’s Transformers?
Transformers #42 from Image Comics will be available to read on March 10, 2027!
