Summary

• Transformers 8 should bring back classic Autobots to work with Optimus Prime, adding a fresh feel to the franchise.
• The earlier setting of the newer films allows for the return of familiar Autobots like Ironhide, Ratchet, and Jazz.
• While bringing back classic characters adds nostalgia, the inclusion of newer heroes like Mirage and Arcee is crucial for the rebooted series to feel different and successful.

After the Transformers franchise returned to the big screen after a five-year absence, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts acting as a reboot yet a sequel to the Bumblebee movie. While Michael Bay directed the first five films, both Bumblebee and Rise of the Beasts marked a change in the franchise with new directors, but there are still links to Bay's work.

The newer films take place before Bay's Transformers projects, which have led to not only different human characters' involvement, but also different Autobots. The addition of new Autobots has given the franchise a fresh feel and helped somewhat reboot the franchise. However, some classic Transformers characters have been missing for several years and deserve a chance to return. Optimus Prime has remained a mainstay in the films, which makes sense given he is the leader of the Autobots. Even if the movie series is going in a new direction though, Transformers 8 needs to re-assemble the old team and bring back some classic characters.

Transformers 8 Needs To Bring Back Some Familiar Autobots To Work With Optimus Prime

Transformers 8 must bring back some of the franchise's most recognizable Autobots to team up with Optimus Prime. Some of the more classic characters haven't been in the movie series for over a decade, meaning now is the perfect time to bring them back. Since Transformers has had a soft reboot, characters such as Ironhide, Ratchet, and Jazz can all make their return. Those who were killed off in previous films have a way back, with the newer films take place well before Michael Bay's movies. Regardless if the franchise has been rebooted or not, this earlier setting allows these familiar Autobots to return.

The series has already made some big alterations, including the Transformers movies changing Bumblebee after Michael Bay's departure. Considering Bumblebee was given his own movie and has had significant development, the new movies could bring back the classic Autobots and add a new spin to them. Including these characters could pique the interest of older viewers who haven't been keeping up with the newer installments. It would give the franchise the feeling of nostalgia for the earlier films while continuing to take it in a new direction, which is the best way forward for the Transformers movies.

Transformers 8's Autobots Team Still Needs The Franchise's Newer Heroes

While Transformers 8 should bring back its older Autobots, it shouldn't forget its newest heroes. Mirage appeared in Transformers: Rise of the Beasts and made a big impression, proving to be one of the more prominent characters in the film. Arcee is also one of Transformers' most popular new Autobots, featuring in both Bumblebee and Rise of the Beasts. These newer characters are pivotal to taking the franchise forward. Bringing back the old classics will help the team feel more complete, but the newer Autobots are what will help the rebooted series feel different and perhaps make Transformers 8 one of the biggest movies in the series.