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{{disambig3|Transformation}}

[[File:GoGo15-transformation.jpg|thumb|right|upright=2|You put your right leg out...]]

'''Transformation''' (also known as '''conversion''') refers to the overall process by which a [[Transformer]] changes from one mode into another—this usually refers to their ability to shift between [[robot mode|robot]] and [[alternate mode]]s. In most realities, transformation is a purely mechanical process in which many interlinked parts shift and move in relation to each other; this process is largely reflexive and separate from a Transformer's higher functions, allowing them to transform back and forth between forms with a minimum of effort. Transformation is generally a very rapid affair; for most Transformers, it takes only a few seconds to change form. However, the speed of transformation is usually inversely proportional to a Cybertronian's overall size and mass. Very large Transformers, such as the [[Guardian robot]]s or [[Titan (group)|Titan]]s, can take longer to fully change form.

While this kind of robot-to-altmode conversion is by far the most common form of transformation seen in most ''Transformers'' fiction, other variations on the process exist. Many Cybertronians can access additional weapons or gadgets while in one specific shape; others can [[combiner|combine]] with other Transformers to form a larger robot or vehicle, necessitating a unique transformation sequence. These should not be confused with [[reformatting]], a type of once-off, full body upgrade. 

Many works of ''Transformers'' fiction tie the ability to transform to the [[transformation cog]] or "T-cog", a sophisticated biomechanical "organ" <ref>"[[Operation Bumblebee, Part 1]]"</ref> that powers and coordinates the various subsystems that autonomously handle a Cybertronian's transformation. Sufficient damage—either to the transformation cog or any other part of the body—can temporarily prevent a Transformer from transforming until their injuries are repaired.

Transformation is not a trait limited to Cybertronians; various robotic [[alien]] races have exhibited similar powers. In many realities, [[human]]s who gain access to Cybertronian technology have been able to reverse-engineer transforming robots of their own.  

==Conceptual history==
[[File:Ladybird prime transforms.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.4]]

The origins and technical details of transformation vary drastically between various [[continuity|continuities]]. Most early works of ''Transformers'' fiction did not explore the origins of transformation, beyond the vague implication that it was an innate ability that all Cybertronians possessed. A few picture books published around the same time, most notably the [[Big Looker Storybook]]s, implied that the Transformers only developed this ability ''after'' being rebuilt on Earth, and that this trait was not endemic to the rest of the species.

[[File:9AmalgamousPrime.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4]]

The "[[Five Faces of Darkness]]" miniseries was the first work of ''Transformers'' fiction to take a serious stab at explaining the origins and mechanisms behind transformation. [[Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4|"Part 4"]] revealed that, while the first generations of Cybertronians lacked the power to transform, the ancestors of the Autobots had invented the technology during a previous conflict with the Decepticons at some point after overthrowing their [[Quintesson]] creators. The miniseries is also notable for introducing [[transformation cog]]s to the ''Transformers'' canon, although this early iteration treated the device as a one-off plot device, seemingly unique to [[Titan (group)|large Transformers]] such as [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] and [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]]. The [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel comic]] eventually developed its own backstory for the ability; in this universe, Transformers were created with this innate ability by their benevolent creator [[Primus]]. As the cartoon had long gone off the air at this point, the final few issues of the Marvel comic set up a storyline involving the [[Action Master]]s, a unique group of Cybertronians who'd given up their ability to transform altogether; ancillary advertising material tied this mutation to the loss of their "[[Figure Alteration System]]". 

The ''[[Beast Wars: Transformers (cartoon)|Beast Wars]]'' cartoon established that the [[Maximal]]s and [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]]s transformed via [[onboard computer]]s that coordinated the reconfiguration of their bodies. Its sequel series, ''[[Beast Machines: Transformers (cartoon)|Beast Machines]]'', is famous for its highly unusual approach to transformation—in this story, the Maximals were [[Reformatting|reformatted]] into [[technorganic]] bodies, and were forced to relearn the "lost art" of transformation through a period of intense meditation and training. The ''[[Transformers: Robots in Disguise (2001 franchise)|Robots in Disguise]]'' and [[Unicron Trilogy continuity family|Unicron Trilogy]] television shows featured many elaborate [[stock footage]] sequences of characters transforming, but otherwise did not emphasize on transformation as a plot point. 

In [[2010]], the ''[[Transformers: War for Cybertron (360/PS3/PC)|War for Cybertron]]'' resurrected the concept of transformation cogs; however, in keeping with Hasbro's increasingly restrictive trademark protection, they were now known as either "conversion cogs" or "trans-cogs". The ''[[Transformers: Prime (cartoon)|Prime]]'' cartoon used the term "T-Cog"; it extended the idea to encompass the notion that ''all'' Transformers possessed a T-Cog, a biomechanism used not just for transformation, but also to access weapons and [[scanning|scan]] new alternate modes—this idea persisted into older-skewing works of fiction such as ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'', which connected the transformation cog to the [[brain module]] and [[spark]] as one of [[Rossum's Trinity|three vital organs]]. [[2013]]'s ''[[Transformers: The Covenant of Primus|The Covenant of Primus]]'' introduced [[Amalgamous Prime]], a member of the [[Thirteen]] credited with introducing the power of transformation to the Cybertronian race through his supernatural transformation cog. However, this explanation never really caught on; most subsequent works of fiction have rarely touched on the origins of transformation. Some stories such as ''[[Transformers: EarthSpark (cartoon)|EarthSpark]]'', however, have broadly drawn upon the mythology surrounding transformation and T-cogs first laid down in ''Prime''.

{{--}}

==The noise==
===Overview===
{{bigquote|TSCHE-<small>CHU-CHU-CHU</small>-TSCHE|"[[Liars, A to D Part 1: How to Say Goodbye and Mean It|How to Say Goodbye and Mean It]]"}}

[[File:Transformation Noise Arrival 4.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.4]]

In many ''Transformers'' television shows, transformation is often accompanied by a [[media:Tf sound.ogg|distinct noise]]—an 8&nbsp;Hz pulse, repeated five times, with each pulse lasting a roughly equal amount of time, whose pitch can be represented by the absolute value of a declining (for [[alternate mode|alt mode]] to [[robot mode]]) or increasing (for robot mode to alt-mode) sine wave. In the G1 series, the sine wave generally increased when a Transformer changed to their robot mode, and declined when they converted to vehicle form (or whichever mode was smaller/shorter.) In general, the larger the robot, the deeper the pitch of the sound, and the longer the duration of the pulses. [[Combiner]] teams have been shown to transform one component at a time, or simultaneously, into their gestalt forms. When transforming simultaneously, the pulses may sound as though they are looping over each other for one or more cycles, depending on how quickly the team members complete their combination.

The noise was first heard in the original Transformers commercial that advertised [[The Transformers (issue)|#1]] of the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel comic]], but only as part of the music track; actual on-screen transformations were depicted with a series of generic mechanical sounds. [[The Transformers (cartoon)|''The Transformers'' cartoon]] and [[The Transformers: The Movie|''The Movie'']] made heavy use of the noise for pretty much all forms of transformation; ''[[Transformers: The Headmasters (cartoon)|The Headmasters]]'' began with most Transformers still retaining the Noise, but around a third of the way into the series, its use became more intermittent, particularly for the Autobot Headmasters themselves. ''[[Transformers: Super-God Masterforce (cartoon)|Super-God Masterforce]]'' still used the sound for the [[Pretender]]s' transformations in [[robot mode]], but the Autobot [[Headmaster Junior]]s and Autobot [[Godmaster (lifeform)|Godmasters]] had new sounds, with most of the Decepticons retaining the original. The noise was dropped completely for ''[[Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers: Victory (cartoon)|Victory]]'' and ''[[Enter the New Supreme Commander, Dai Atlas!|Zone]]''.  

The specific instance of the sound of [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] transforming during the [[Battle of Autobot City]] in the animated film would go on to become the "standard" sound used in many post-G1 series:  as the only instance of the sound available that had been recorded with no dialogue, music, or sound effects, it could be edited in more cleanly by subsequent production studios.  

''[[Beast Wars: Transformers (cartoon)|Beast Wars]]'' didn't use the noise when its characters transformed, with the notable exception of Generation 1 guest star [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]], who played the noise as he transformed into his classic cassette alternate mode.

The noise next appeared in [[Transformers: Robots in Disguise (2001 cartoon)|the 2001 ''Robots in Disguise'' cartoon]], where it was heard uniformly among all Transformers at the very beginning of transformation sequences. ''[[Transformers: Armada (cartoon)|Armada]]'' used two new versions of the noise, which primarily saw use during [[stock footage]] transformation sequences; the second carried into ''[[Transformers: Energon (cartoon)|Energon]]''. The original version of the noise was heard briefly in ''Armada'' as part of one of the background music tracks, and in ''Energon'' on occasion whenever part of the Japanese sound effects track was not completely dubbed over.
The [[Live-action film series|live-action films]] use noise as a semi-recurring easter egg. It appeared during [[Blackout (Movie)|Blackout]]'s first on-screen transformation in ''[[Transformers (film)|Transformers]]''; it can also be prominently heard during Bumblebee's final transformation in ''[[Transformers: Dark of the Moon (film)|Dark of the Moon]]'', and when Optimus scans a new [[alternate mode]] in ''[[Transformers: Age of Extinction (film)|Age of Extinction]]''. 

The noise accompanies all transformations in ''[[Transformers Animated (cartoon)|Transformers Animated]]'', even minor ones including [[mouthplate]]s, pop-out weapons, or [[Sari Sumdac (Animated)|Sari Sumdac]]'s [[AllSpark Key]].  In the case of smaller, specific parts, the Noise is sometimes played sped up or higher pitched. In ''[[Transformers: Fall of Cybertron]]'' game, each character was given a unique transformation noise that was personalised for them. For example, [[Optimus Prime (WFC)|Optimus Prime's]] version of the noise was very similar to the original version while [[Jazz (WFC)|Jazz's]] version incorporates kick drums.<ref name="FOC">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UEAiHRBpMcw "Creating the Transformers Sound in Fall of Cybertron" on Game Informer's YouTube channel]</ref> Beginning with ''[[Transformers: Prime (cartoon)|Prime]]'', all future ''Transformers'' shows have used only the ascending variant of the noise for all transformations.

===Onomatopoeia===
Japanese manga often uses the onomatopoeia "gi-go-ga-go-go" (ギゴガゴゴ) to represent the noise. The ''[[Transformers Go! Go!|Go! Go!]]'' manga shortens this to just "gi-go-ga-go" (ギゴガゴ) when characters transform into robot mode, and reverses the order of syllables for robot-to-altmode conversions (ギガゴガ, "gi-ga-go-ga")

In "[[Transformers Animated: The Arrival|The Arrival]]", the noise is consistently spelled "whrr-tschzz-tschzz-tschzz-chk". {{storylink|The Arrival issue 4}}

The [[2005 IDW continuity]] rendered the noise with the spelling "tsche-chu-chu-chu-tsche" {{storylink|Liars, A to D Part 1: How to Say Goodbye and Mean It|How to Say Goodbye and Mean It}} and "tsche-tsche-tk-tk-tk"; {{storylink|The Dying of the Light Part 3: Your Fierce Tears|Your Fierce Tears}} the [[Transformers: Beast Wars|2021 ''Beast Wars'' comic]] uses "tsche-tsch-tsch-tsche-tsch". {{storylink|Savage Landing Part 2}} The [[2019 IDW continuity]] used ''many'' different sound effects to accompany characters transforming, sometimes even within the same issue—it's somewhat debatable whether any of them are meant to be a version of the noise. {{storylink|Rise of the Decepticons: Tremors|Tremors}}

The ''[[Angry Birds Transformers (comic)|Angry Birds Transformers]]'' comic uses "whk-whek-whek-whk-whk". {{storylink|Angry Birds Transformers issue 1|Angry Birds Transformers #1}}

The [[Void Rivals issue 1|first issue]] of ''[[Void Rivals]]'' has [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] transform with a "Ch-chi chi-chu-chik chu-chi-ii"; {{storylink|Void Rivals issue 1|Void Rivals #1}} Skybound's ''[[Transformers (2023 comic)|Transformers]]'' ongoing instead goes with "kheekhakhoukhee". {{storylink|Transformers (2023) issue 1|Transformers #1}}

In the ''[[Overwatch 2]]'' collaboration, [[wikia:overwatch:Bastion|Bastion]]'s Bumblebee skin features a license plate reading "T-C-C-C-T", an abbreviation of one of the IDW onomatopoeias. {{storylink|Overwatch 2}}

===In fiction===
According to [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]], the sound is an energon tracking signal sent during the quantum-shift of their atoms' position and purpose. {{storylink|Awaken and Corrupt#Chapter 2: Decepticons Burn|Decepticons Burn}} 

The sound designers of ''[[Transformers: Fall of Cybertron|Fall of Cybertron]]'' envisioned it as the sound of [[energon]] moving through their bodies.<ref name="FOC"/>

[[Cy-Kill (GoBots)|Cy-Kill]] once claimed that the noise was a product of inferior Cybertronian engineering, and noted that Go-Bots made no such noise when they transform. {{storylink|Transformers: Renegade Rhetoric}}

==Unusual transformations==
===Mass-shifting===
{{main|Size changing}}
[[File:MaximumDinobots5-Soundwavetransforms.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.4]]

Many Transformers, including [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]], or the many [[Mini-Cassette]]s, can transform into handheld objects many times smaller than themselves. To pull off a convincing disguise, these Cybertronians can physically shrink as they transform to better fit the dimensions of their alternate modes. Some sources have attempted to justify these unusual powers: one common explanation is that the transformation process allows them to either compress their molecular structure into a more compact form, or somehow exert a tremendous amount of energy to "shunt" their excess mass somewhere else. Notably, a number of Transformers with this power have occasionally demonstrated some degree of control over their size changing powers—for instance, Megatron has frequently turned himself into a gun capable of being wielded by other Cybertronians. In [[2005 IDW continuity|one universe]], Megatron was even able to change size while in robot mode. <ref>"[[slaughterhouse]]"</ref>

Rather than shrinking, a handful of Cybertronians ''grow'' when transforming. These include [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]], who transforms from an average-sized robot into an enormous Space Shuttle, [[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]], who transforms from a fighter jet into an entire aircraft carrier, and many [[combiner]] team members, whose overall gestalt form is usually many times larger than the sum of their individual components. Notably, a handful of Transformers, such as [[Deep Cover]], possess innate size-changing abilities entirely separate from their alternate modes, which they can freely access in either shape.

{{--}}

===Multiple alternate modes===
{{main|Duocon|Triple Changer|Six Changer|:Category:Transformers with multiple modes}}

[[File:Infiltration5-Blitzwing.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.4]]

Most Transformers can only maintain two forms: a base [[robot mode]] and a single [[alternate mode]]. However, some Cybertronians have demonstrated the ability to take on two or more distinct alternate forms, best exemplified by the [[Triple Changer]]s and [[Six Changer]]s.  Very few continuities have ever attempted to provide a concrete explanation as to why some Transformers possess these unique abilities, while most don't. ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye]]'' tied the origins of the Triple Changers to the unique "genetic potential" embedded within their [[spark]]s, implying that they would one day—whether through natural mutation or artificially-induced experimentation—evolve into a triple-changing form. 2016's "[[Of Masters and Mayhem]]" storyline tied [[Punch (G1)|Punch]]'s unique espionage abilities to a rare "one-in-a-trillion" defect in his transformation cog.

Other stories have interpreted taking on an extra alternate modes as a mental barrier to be overcome, rather than a purely physical limitation: in these stories, a suitably motivated Transformer can adopt a second alternate form through a period of intense training and deep meditation. ''[[Transformers Legends (comic)|Legends]]'' introduced the mysterious [[Six Clan]], who'd all gained their powers this way; in ''[[Transformers: Rescue Bots (cartoon)|Rescue Bots]]'', [[Heatwave (RB)|Heatwave]] gained the ability to "rescan" a third mode after learning how to focus his energies through a sustained period of concentration. The Aligned continuity also introduced the [[Mul-T-Cog]]s, external devices which allowed the young Cybertronians at the [[Rescue Bot Training Center]] to adopt more than one alternate mode.

A small number of Transformers, such as the [[Duocon]]s, [[Magmatron]], [[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]], or [[Overlord (G1)|Overlord]], are made up of two or more alternate forms that combine into a single robot. Some fiction has tied this ability to the presence of a unique "[[mitotic spark]]" that allows them to control multiple components at a time; Dreamwave's fiction, meanwhile, reconceptualized the [[Duocon]]s as flawed prototype Triple Changers.

Some Cybertronians can initiate a kind of secondary transformation, which allows them to access additional equipment or weaponry, but these ad-hoc "[[transportation mode|transportation]]" and "[[attack mode]]s" are generally not distinct enough to count as a dedicated third form. [[Megatron (RID)|''Robots in Disguise'' Galvatron]] holds the record for the largest number of distinct alternate modes exhibited by any single individual, with a whopping ''ten'' separate forms.

===Combiners===
{{main|Combiner|Powerlinx}}

[[File:TFUS10 all crumble before devastator.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.4]]

Many Transformers posses the ability to combine with one another. Members of a [[combiner]] team traditionally possess three potential configurations--a robot mode, an alternate mode, and a component of a larger combined form. Usually, robots with a combiner form cannot individually transform into a gestalt limb; only together can each Cybertronian involved in the combination trigger the combination. A handful of Transformers, including the [[Micromaster Combiner]]s and the members of the [[Functionist Council]], lack their own dedicated alternate modes, and can only transform between their individual robot forms and a combined alternate mode. Some Transformers can transform into a component for other Cybertronians to combine with, such as [[Overhaul (Cybertron)|Leobreaker]]'s ability to form a "Savage Claw" power fist for [[Optimus Prime (Armada)|Optimus Prime]]. 

In this regard, the [[Seacon (G1)|Seacon]]s are unique—each one can transform between a robot mode, a beast mode, a combiner component, ''and'' a potential weapon for their [[Piranacon (G1)|combined form]] to wield!

The [[Mini-Con]]s of the ''[[Transformers: Armada (franchise)|Armada]]'' franchise offer a different spin on the concept: they display the ability to [[powerlinx]] with larger Transformers and spontaneously reconfigure their partner's anatomies into new weapons and equipment. The Japanese ''[[Transformers: Armada (franchise)|Legends of the Microns]]'' identified this unique form of transformation as "Evolution", but this was downplayed in the American dub.

{{--}}

===High-speed transformation===
[[File:Battlechargers-marvel23a.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.4]]

A number of real-life ''Transformers'' toys were designed with unique auto-transforming abilities—the [[Battlecharger]]s and [[Jumpstarter]]s transformed using a spring-loaded [[pull-back motor]]. These unique play features were contextualized as a unique, ultra-fast form of transformation; as described in both [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|the Marvel comic]] and ''[[Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye]]'', 'bots with this ability can switch from vehicle to robot faster than the human eye can follow, in less than half a second. <ref> "[[Decepticon Graffiti!]]" </ref> ''More than Meets the Eye'' also attributed a similar ability to the [[Triple Changer]]s, who are noted to transform twice as fast as an ordinary Cybertronian.

{{--}}

===Super modes===
{{main|Super Mode}}

[[File:Comrade optimus supermode.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.4]]

A small number of Transformers have displayed the ability to transform into a larger, more powerful robot form—in most cases, accessing this form involves combining with external hardware, such as a transforming trailer or a custom-built suit of armour. In many cases, this secondary transformation grants Cybertornians access to greater strength and firepower while in robot mode—across the [[multiverse]], many incarnations of [[Optimus Prime (disambiguation)|Optimus Prime]] can combine with their vehicle-mode trailers to access a markedly stronger robot mode. In other cases, such as the [[Pretender]]s, their armour grants them the ability to move unnoticed among certain organic populations. Under most circumstances, however, a Transformer must disengage from this form in order to assume their regular alternate mode.

{{--}}

===Technorganic transformation===
{{main|Technorganic}}

[[File:MasterOfTheHouse-Optimustransformation.gif|thumb|right|upright=1.4]]

One of the best-remembered plot points from the ''[[Beast Machines: Transformers (cartoon)|Beast Machines]]'' was its radical reinvention of the "transforming robot" trope. Although [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]] and his [[Vehicon]] minions transformed in the usual fashion, the show's [[Maximal]] cast discovered that their new [[technorganic]] bodies could only transform when they found their "emotional still point"; these transformations now took the form of fluid shapeshifting rather then mechanically rearranging their components. Mastering these new forms took time and effort, and learning to find the emotional balance required to transform became a significant part of the show's overall narrative.

Some technorganic Transformers possess their own unique transformation sequences. [[Botanica (BM)|Botanica]], for instance, grew a ring of technorganic plants around her body whenever she transformed. 

This unique transformation does not apply to all characters who have been described as "technorganic". Cybertronians in other universes, such as [[Sari Sumdac]], transform in a more conventional method. 

{{--}}

===Adaptable bodies===

[[File:G2StoryPageReconfigurationMatrix1.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.4]]

Some groups of transforming robots, such as the [[Go-Bot (species)|Go-Bots]], use a process similar to reformatting to take on multiple alternate forms. This ability to start with one [[robot mode|robot]] and [[alternate mode|alternate form]] and transform easily to entirely different variations without extensive mechanical work comes from [[Go-Brillium|unique metals]] in the Go-Bots' bodies.

In some realities, [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] carries the [[Reconfiguration Matrix]], a miraculous device that allows him to reshape his body into many different robot and vehicle forms. <ref>[http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-images/tech-specs/Generation-2-Tech-Specs/1995-Transformers-Tech-Specs/Optimus_Prime__1995-USA1_.jpg.html Optimus Prime's ''Generation 2'' Go-Bot on-package bio]</ref>

Supplementary material from the [[Transformers (film)|first live-action ''Transformers'' film]] applied a similar ability to the Transformers themselves—one early idea seemed to be that the Autobots and Decepticons of the movie universe could voluntarily switch between different alternate forms on the fly; narration in ''[[Transformers: The Movie Guide|The Movie Guide]]'' notes that a Transformer's base [[protoform]] state can spontaneously assume any shape of roughly equivalent mass, and narration in ''[[Transformers: Ghosts of Yesterday|Ghosts of Yesterday]]'' describes [[Bumblebee (Movie)|Bumblebee]]'s "internal memory database" of potential vehicle forms. The [[Transformers Autobots/Decepticons|Nintendo DS games]] applied a similar ability to the game's "Create-A-Bot" protagonists; in the case of the [[Create-A-Bot (Autobot)|Autobot player character]], this is noted to be a unique ability developed by [[Wheeljack (Movie)|Wheeljack]]. As time went on, however, this conceit was quietly dropped, and the [[scanning]] capabilities of the characters were gradually brought into line with other contemporary depictions of transformation.

{{--}}

===Unlimited alternate modes===
{{main|Shifter|Mutacon|Infinite}}

[[File:TheCovenantOfPrimus-mutacons.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.4]]

Most Transformers can only transform into a preset alternate mode, but a few rare specimens take this talent to the next level—they can instantly reconfigure their bodies into ''any'' conceivable shape, to the point where they can even convincingly mimic other Cybertronians. The [[Aligned continuity family|"Aligned" continuity]] first introduced the concept with the [[Shifter]]s, a rare subspecies capable of masquerading as other Cybertronians. 2013's ''[[Transformers: The Covenant of Primus|The Covenant of Primus]]'' tied them back to [[Amalgamous Prime]], the first Cybertronian ever to possess a [[transformation cog]], and also introduced the [[Mutacon]]s, a wandering tribe of nomads who'd been inadvertently mutated into Shifters after accidental exposure to the energies of Amalgamous's unique transformation cog.

[[IDW Publishing]]'s ''[[The Transformers: Lost Light|Lost Light]]'' ongoing also touched upon the topic with the [[Infinite]]s—while the Mutacons and Shifters owe their abilities to the supernatural power of Amalgamous Prime, the Infinites are a genetically-engineered subspecies created by [[Adaptus]].

{{--}}

===Hypno-transformation===
{{main|Living metal}}

[[File:AOE stinger transforms.gif|thumb|right|upright=1.4]]

In ''[[Transformers: Age of Extinction (film)|Age of Extinction]]'', the man-made Transformers constructed by [[Kinetic Solutions Incorporated]] transform in a most unusual fashion: rather than mechanically reshaping their body components, they simply explode into a free-flowing cloud of [[Living metal|transformium]], then reassemble themselves into their other form. Transformers with this ability can maintain this amorphous shape for an unlimited period of time; they can use it to dodge explosions or simply to reach otherwise inaccessible locations. Inanimate objects constructed using transformium, such as a number of prototype stealth weapons, display these same powers. 

This unique form of transformation was not named on-screen. However, the [[Transformers (Titan Magazine)|Titan Magazine]] ''Transformers'' magazine used the term "hypno-transformation" to describe the process, [[canonizing]] a term used by [[Industrial Light & Magic]] animators during the film's development.

{{--}}

===Loss of transformation===
{{main|Action Master|Monoformer|Militant Monoform Movement|Transformation paralysis}}

[[File:StillLife-ActionMasterGrimlock.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.4]]

Although the Transformers are renowned for their shapeshifting abilities, not all Cybertronians possess this power. Over the course of their long lifetimes, a Transformer may somehow ''lose'' their ability to transform, leaving them stranded in one shape. Various weapons such as the [[Transfixatron]] or the [[Transformation Lock Lens]] can temporarily freeze a Cybertronian in one form, while exposure to exotic fuel sources such as [[Nucleon (substance)|Nucleon]] can permanently rob Cybertronians of their ability to transform. Marketing material for the [[Action Master]]s explained that exposure to nucleon converted their "[[Figure Alteration System]]s" into "[[Energy Storage Reactor]]s"; Cybertronians who chose to become Action Masters thus traded their ability to transform for a dramatically stronger and more powerful robot form. In most ''Transformers'' stories, this mutation is more-or-less permanent: to regain their ability to transform, afflicted Cybertronians must undergo a battery of experimental medical procedures or otherwise endure a ground-up rebuild into a new, Nucleon-free body. 

The [[2005 IDW continuity]] coined the term "[[monoformer]]" to describe a Transformer who'd voluntarily or involuntarily lost their ability to transform.

In most modern ''Transformers'' stories, damage, loss, or deliberate removal of the transformation cog will cause a Transformer to lose their ability to change forms. Other tales have connected a loss of transformation to low energy or age-related complications: [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)|Marvel]]'s [[Xaaron|Emirate Xaaron]] is unable to transform as a result of his advanced age; many Autobots and Decepticons in ''[[Beast Wars: Uprising]]'' wound up locked in their vehicle modes after centuries of energy depletion; in ''[[Transformers: Last Bot Standing|Last Bot Standing]]'', an underfuelled [[Riotgear (G1)|Riotgear]] struggles to transform into robot mode.

{{--}}

==Fiction==
===Generation 1 continuity family===
====Marvel Comics continuity====
=====Marvel ''The Transformers'' comic=====
{{noteukonly}}
[[File:TheTransformers-transform.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.66]]

After sealing both himself and [[Unicron/Generation 1|Unicron]] within metallic planetoids, [[Primus]] created the [[Transformer]]s, a race of warriors with the power to reshape their bodies into alternate forms. {{storylink|The Primal Scream}} During the subsequent [[Great War (G1)|Great War]] between the Autobots and Decepticons, both sides made use of transformation technology; when [[Optimus Prime (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Optimus Prime]] and [[Megatron (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Megatron]]'s forces crash-landed on [[Earth]], the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'s [[Aunty|computer]] rebuilt the deactivated Cybertronians so that they transformed into terrestrial machines instead. {{storylink|The Transformers (issue)|The Transformers}}

''While battling [[Flame (Marvel)|Flame]], [[Xaaron|Emirate Xaaron]] was well aware that, having failed to transform for hundreds of years, the shock to his system upon transforming to combat mode had a good chance of killing him. {{storylink|Meltdown!}} Neglecting to have all one's body parts connected at the time of attempting transformation was also a very painful, if not impossible, process.'' {{storylink|Deadly Games!}}
While searching for a means to revive the ailing [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobot]]s, [[Grimlock (G1)/Marvel Comics continuity|Grimlock]] discovered a dangerous, unpredictable fuel source called [[Nucleon (substance)|Nucleon]] on the planet [[Hydrus Four]]. Exposure to nucleon caused Grimlock's body to gradually seize up; eventually, he entered an immobile "chrysalis state" that preceded his rapid mutation into a non-transforming [[Action Master]]. {{storylink|Still Life!}} ''[[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] explained that long-term Nucleon exposure converted a Transformer's [[Figure Alteration System]]s into [[Energy Storage Reactor]]s; as a result, Transformers who became Action Masters traded their ability to transform for enhanced strength and speed. {{storylink|Rhythms of Darkness!|Issue #300 letters section}}

=====Another Time & Place=====
Following the end of the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]], many Autobots of the "nucleon generation", depressed and emasculated by their inability to transform, recused themselves from society. A repentant Grimlock returned to Hydrus Four in search of a rumoured cure for their condition; during a battle to stop the Decepticons from resurrecting Megatron, Grimlock successfully used an improved version of Nucleon to flush his systems and restore his transformative capabilities.{{storylink|Another Time & Place}}  

=====''Regeneration One''=====
Following the end of the war, Grimlock came to resent his new life as an Action Master. Seeking a way to restore his ability to transform and cure his fellow Autobots of their various Nucleon-related afflictions, he travelled to the planet [[Nebulos]]. Ultimately, Grimlock regained his ability to transform when [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] implanted his [[spark]] into a new body. {{storylink|Natural Selection, Part Two}} Other Cybertronians suffering from Nucleon-induced mutations were transferred to the [[Garage]], where they received new, Nucleon-free bodies. {{storylink|Destiny, Part Two}}

====Generation 1 cartoon continuity====
======''The Transformers'' cartoon======
[[File:Bumblebee transforming.gif|thumb|right|upright=1.4|Just lying down is a transformation.]]

Transformation was invented by the [[Autobot]]s during the first war against the [[Decepticon]]s, when it became apparent that they could not master their firepower and strength. Their newfound ability to ambush their foes met with great success, and the defeat of the Deceptions ushered in a [[Golden Age]] of peace and prosperity. However, the Decepticons subsequently adopted transformation technology; under [[Megatron (G1)/Generation 1 cartoon continuity|Megatron]]'s leadership, the empowered Decepticons then kicked off the [[Great War (G1)|Third Cybertronian War]] between the two factions. {{storylink|Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4}}

Transformation takes a sufficient amount of energy and mental focus; in cases where Transformers have suffered severe physical injuries, transformation can become difficult. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 3}} Maintaining an alternate mode can drain energy; [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]] once reverted to robot mode when he found his alternate mode to be too much on his energy stores. {{storylink|A Decepticon Raider in King Arthur's Court (episode)|A Decepticon Raider in King Arthur's Court}} While on Earth, Megatron developed the [[Transfixatron]], a device which could trap Cybertronian in their alternate mode and prevent them from transforming. {{storylink|The Autobot Run}}

When the Earth-bound Transformers began malfunctioning due to [[Cybertonium]] depletion, they began uncontrollably transforming. Some partially transformed, while others involuntarily changed modes or were unable to fully manifest attachments. {{storylink|Desertion of the Dinobots, Part 1}} 

[[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]]  {{storylink|Five Faces of Darkness, Part 1}} and [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]] {{storylink|The Ultimate Weapon}} possessed [[transformation cog]]s that controlled their transformation processes, and were essential to allow them to transform at all. {{storylink|Five Faces of Darkness, Part 1}}

Transformers with dinosaur-based alternate modes possess unique "dinosaur electrons". When they transform, they release a burst of "[[dinosaur transform static]]". {{storylink|Thief in the Night}}

======''The Headmasters'' cartoon======
[[File:Headmasters tf stuck.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4|Ow.]]

Millions of years ago, a group of [[Cyberdroid]]s fled Cybertron and settled on the desolate planet [[Master (planet)|Master]]. These small robots were so young that they had not learned how to transform yet; to survive the harsh climate of their new home, they developed [[Transtector]]s—normal-sized Transformer bodies that they would be able to connect to—and underwent a period of prolonged, intensive training so that they could learn to transform and link up with them. Even the most promising candidates struggled when they first connected with their Transtectors, spasming and becoming stuck between modes as they attempted to trigger the conversion. {{storylink|The Four-Million-Year-Old Veil of Mystery}}

{{-}}

=====''Legends'' comic=====
Transformers wishing to take on a third configuration can directly modify their [[transformation cog]]s; this was the case with the five Autobots who adopted tertiary [[combiner]] configurations as part of the "[[Optimus Maximus|Masquerade Project]]". {{storylink|Slugslinger's Ambition}}

[[Nightbird (G1)|Nightbird]] trained with the Six Clan, who taught her how to transform into an alternate mode. {{Storylink|LG-15 Nightbird Shadow Sequel}}

====Big Looker Storybooks====
After reactivating in [[1984]], the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'s computer rebuilt the unconscious Autobots and Decepticons to resemble Earth machines and gave them the ability to transform into their original robot shapes. {{storylink|Battle for Cybertron}}

====Beast Wars cartoon continuity====
The earliest Cybertronians had to learn the art of transformation, which involved discipline, purity of [[spark]], and years of practice. {{storylink|The Reformatting}} By the era of the [[Maximal]]s and [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]]s, the introduction of [[onboard computer]]s had largely automated the process, to the point where a Cybertronian merely needed to speak a [[activation code|command code]] that automatically triggered their transformation. {{storylink|Master of the House}} 

=====''Beast Wars'' cartoon=====
The Maximals and Predacons who participated in the [[Beast Wars (event)|Beast Wars]] typically transformed from [[beast mode]] to [[robot mode]] by triggering a unique command code—"maximize" or "terrorize", respectively. {{storylink|Beast Wars (Part 1)}} While trapped in [[Tarantulas (BW)|Tarantulas]]'s [[stasis web]], [[Cheetor (BW)|Cheetor]] was unable to transform; {{storylink|The Web}} later, Tarantulas invented the [[Transformation Lock Lens]], which was capable of forcibly preventing afflicted Cybertronians from transforming. {{storylink|The Probe}} Maximals who adopted beast modes separated their bestial instincts from their higher functions with a programming block. If stuck in beast mode for too long, the Maximals would devolve into feral creatures. {{storylink|Call of the Wild}} 

Fully organic in nature, [[Clone One]] was unable to transform. {{storylink|Double Dinobot}}

Cybertronians who were mutated into [[Transmetal]] forms gained the ability to trigger a secondary transformation while in beast mode, allowing them to deploy accessories such as rocket engines and wheels. {{storylink|Aftermath}} 
[[Transmutate (BW)|Transmutate]], a defective Transformer spawned from a malfunctioning [[stasis pod]], lacked the ability to transform. {{storylink|Transmutate (episode)|Transmutate}}

Exposure to the energies of the [[Transmetal driver]] caused Cheetor to undergo a strange metamorphosis, which temporarily caused him to morph back and forth between his Transmetal body and a monstrous [[Transmetal 2]] form. {{storylink|Feral Scream Part 1}} Eventually, Cheetor permanently mutated into a Transmetal 2 in a moment of stress, which unleashed a burst of [[spark]] energy that destroyed his Transmetal form. {{storylink|Feral Scream Part 2}} 

=====''Beast Machines'' cartoon=====
[[File:EndOfTheLine-transformation.gif|thumb|right|upright=1.4]]

When Megatron returned to Cybertron, he engineered a [[Transformation virus|paralyzing virus]] that allowed him to easily conquer the planet. When the Maximals reached Cybertron, those with [[Transmetal]] upgrades were able to partly resist its effects; instead, the virus "devolved" them back into their original beast configurations {{storylink|Revelations Part II: Descent}} and left them unable to transform. {{storylink|The Reformatting}}

The [[Oracle (BM)|Oracle]] [[Reformatting|reformatted]] four of the Maximals into new, [[technorganic]] bodies; however, these new forms lacked onboard computers, and the Maximals discovered that they could only transform into robot mode when they found their emotional still point, and adopted the mantra "I am transformed" to assist them. Remaining in robot form now required conscious effort; losing concentration or consciousness caused them to revert back into beast mode, {{storylink|Master of the House}} although with time and effort maintaining their transformation seemed to become easier. {{storylink|Fallout (episode)|Fallout}} Later technorganic Maximals, such as [[Nightscream (BM)|Nightscream]], {{storylink|Forbidden Fruit}}, [[Silverbolt (Fuzor)|Silverbolt]], {{storylink|In Darkest Knight}}, and [[Botanica (BM)|Botanica]], all displayed the ability to transform without any kind of prior tutelage. {{storylink|Home Soil}}

[[Rattrap (BW)|Rattrap]] struggled to adjust to this new form of transformation. Eventually, he discovered the laboratory when Megatron had developed the virus, along with a transformation-enhancing counter-virus; when he used the latter on himself, however, the transformation enhancer reacted strangely with his new body, and caused him to uncontrollably shift between robot and beast forms. {{storylink|Mercenary Pursuits}}

The strange, wholly-organic being known as [[Noble (BM)|Noble]] was nevertheless able to transform into a hulking draconic creature called "Savage". {{storylink|Savage Noble}}

=====''Timelines''=====
The Maximal [[Nitrostreak]] was left temporarily unable to transform as a result of damage to his [[transformation cog]] while in vehicle mode. {{storylink|Dawn of Future's Past}}

====Dreamwave Generation 1 continuity====
[[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]'s goals of accelerating the evolutionary development of the Cybertronian race led to a mounting obsession with the idea of a Cybertronian with more than one alternate mode. The [[Duocon]]s were an early attempt at bringing these theories to fruition, but most of his test subjects didn't survive the process; those that did wound up extremely unstable. Nevertheless, Shockwave took what he'd learned and used it to create the first generation of Triple Changers, singling out those with great "genetic potential" and augmenting them further so that they could accept a third alternate form.  {{storylink|Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More than Meets the Eye}}

====2005 IDW continuity====
[[File:YouMeAndOtherRevelations-transformation.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.4]]

All Cybertronians are born with a functioning [[transformation cog]], an [[alternate mode]], and the ability to transform: "[[Reproduction#2005 IDW continuity|forged]]" Cybertronians develop alternate forms based on the [[CNA|genetic material]] embedded in their [[spark]], {{storylink|Silent Light}}, while "[[Reproduction#2005 IDW continuity|constructed cold]]" 'bots have their sparks implanted into a mass-produced chassis with a predetermined alternate form. {{storylink|Your First Mistake}} A Transformer changes forms by spinning their cog at a certain velocity, which controls the overall speed of transformation. By shutting down all safety valves and spinning their transformation cog, a Cybertronian could achieve near-instantaneous transformation, but doing this repeatedly would result in the cog breaking beyond repair. {{storylink|Omega's Conundrum}} Some Transformers can become addicted to the sensation of transforming, but this is a dangerous problem: too much transforming in too short a space of time can burn out the transformation cog and increase the risk of sudden death. {{storylink|Liars, A to D Part 1: How to Say Goodbye and Mean It|How to Say Goodbye and Mean It}} Following the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]], a treatment for this condition became available. {{storylink|How Ratchet Got His Hands Back}} Conversely, a few rare Cybertronians are born with an inborn aversion to transformation; [[Demus|one Cybertronian]] with this condition had his transformation cog surgically removed, along with all components relating to his alternate mode. {{storylink|Some Of My Best Friends Are Autobots}} Diseases such as [[cybercrosis]] could destroy a Transformer's transformation cog and prevent them from transforming. {{storylink|Remain in Light 1 of 5: The Fecund Moon|The Fecund Moon}}

It is possible for a Cybertronian to transform involuntarily—an impact to the [[neural cluster]] can trigger an "involuntary mode spasm". {{storylink|Little Victories}} Under certain circumstances, a recently deceased Transformer may experience [[rigor morphis]], where the dead body will reflexively transform into their preferred shape. {{storylink|Liars, A to D Part 1: How to Say Goodbye and Mean It}} The serial killer [[Sunder (G1)|Sunder]] could use his remote [[mnemosurgery]] powers to force other Cybertronians to transform after first making their bodies "forget" how to properly change shape, causing them turn themselves inside out.  {{storylink|Speak, Memory! (Part 2)}}

According to legend, [[Primus|the first Cybertronian]] realized he could transform some twelve million years ago in the land that would one day become [[Rivets Field]]. {{storylink|Liars, A to D Part 1: How to Say Goodbye and Mean It|How to Say Goodbye and Mean It}} Early religions attributed the gift of transformation to the mythological pantheon known as the [[Guiding Hand]]; according to the [[Clavis Aurea]] sect, [[Primus]] decreed that his creations should take on a second shape to carry out their duties more efficiently. Religious Cybertronians associated transformation with [[Adaptus]], god of change; conventional Cybertronian mythology holds that it was Adaptus who became the first [[transformation cog]], ensuring that all future Cybertronians would be able to adapt to any situation. {{storylink|Primus: You, Me, and Other Revelations|You, Me, and Other Revelations}} [[Rewind (G1)|Rewind]] possessed a recording of an ancient Cybertronian transforming, which took roughly ten minutes. {{storylink|Interiors}}

[[File:TarnAltMode.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.4]]

After the [[First Cybertronian Civil War]], [[Nova Prime]] instituted a political philosophy known as [[Functionism]], which segregated Cybertronians into distinct classes based on the versatility and ubiquitousness of their alternate modes, {{storylink|Life After the Big Bang}} which included a "[[disposable class|disposable]]" underclass who possessed overwhelmingly common alternate modes. {{storylink|Before & After}} A group known as the [[Militant Monoform Movement]] became infamous for their decision to symbolically reject Adaptus by surgically removing their transformation cogs and becoming "[[monoformer]]s". {{storylink|Chaos Theory Part 2}} 

While some Cybertronians possessed the ability to mass-shift into smaller alternate forms, wartime energy rationing meant that few Cybertronians could enjoy this privilege. {{storylink|Escalation issue 3|Escalation #3}} Even after the Great War, asking what someone transformed into was considered gauche, {{storylink|How Ratchet Got His Hands Back}} and many got defensive over the function of their alternate modes. {{storylink|Liars, A to D Part 1: How to Say Goodbye and Mean It|How to Say Goodbye and Mean It}} While under the influence of [[Tarantulas (BW)|Tarantulas]], [[Roadbuster (G1)|Roadbuster]] forced Autobot cadets through a regimen of brutal "mode-drilling" exercises, forcing them to transform over and over until their bodies gave out. {{storylink|Sins of the Wreckers issue 4|Sins of the Wreckers #4}}

[[Chromedome (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Chromedome]] could identify an Autobot just by their transformation sound. [[Rewind (G1)/2005 IDW continuity|Rewind]] could do the same ''and'' judge their emotional state by the sound of their transformation. {{storylink|Interiors}} 

The ability to transform was not exclusive to Cybertronians: other transforming mechanical races included the [[Stentarian]]s, {{storylink|Little Victories}} the [[Junkion (species)|Junkion]]s, and the [[Sharkticon (species)|Sharkticons]]. {{storylink|New Cybertron Part 5: Future Glories Lost|Future Glories Lost}}

{{--}}

====''Beast Wars: Uprising''====
When [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]] was gravely wounded in the [[Great Push]] of [[2033]], [[Full-Tilt (G1)|Full-Tilt]] modified himself to act as the giant Transformer's T-cog, which involved permanently wiring himself into Trypticon's systems. {{storylink|Intersectionality}} Post-war Cybertron had such a high premium on [[energon]] that most [[Builder of Cybertron|Builders]] lacked the power reserves necessary to transform. {{storylink|Broken Windshields}} {{storylink|Head Games}} While most remained in robot mode, some, such as [[Black-Out]], wound up locked in their vehicle modes. {{storylink|Derailment}}

The smaller, energy-efficient [[Maximal]]s and [[Predacon (BW)|Predacons]] retained the ability to transform, {{storylink|Alone Together}} as did the [[Micromaster]]s. {{storylink|Broken Windshields}} The [[Cyberdroid]]s retained their ability to transform; when they were drafted into an increasingly desperate military towards the end of the [[Grand Uprising]], their commanders were generally frustrated by the fact that none of them turned into anything useful. {{storylink|Derailment}}

====Of Masters and Mayhem====
An advanced alien race on the planet [[Chicxulania]] studied Cybertronian physiology and reverse-engineered their biology to create an advanced "[[technorganic|techno-organic]] hybrid transformation" that allowed Cybertronians to adopt organic [[beast mode]]s. {{storylink|Life Finds a Way}} 

[[Punch (G1)|Punch]]'s transformation cog contained a rare, "one-in-a-trillion" mutation that allowed him to assume a second robot form. {{storylink|The Truth We Make}}

====2019 IDW continuity====
[[File:TFVDay-Glyph.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.4]]

Cybertronians were the only known species with the ability to transform. {{storylink|The World In Your Eyes Part Two}} However, they were not naturally born with this ability; early in their lifetime, a freshly-[[Reproduction|forged]] Transformer would have to first scan a suitable alternate mode of their choosing. {{storylink|The World In Your Eyes Part Three}} Some rare Transformers, such as [[Sixshot (G1)|Sixshot]], possessed the ability to transform into more than one shape; {{storylink|The Cracks Beneath Your Feet Part Three}} by the time of the [[Great War (G1)|Great War]], [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]] was widely regarded as the best [[Triple Changer]] on Cybertron. {{storylink|War World: Titans|Titans}} 

The enormous [[Leviathan (G1)|Leviathan]] developed a strong attachment to her alternate mode, to the point where she refused to transform into robot mode except in the most dire circumstances. {{storylink|Rise of the Decepticons: Tremors|Tremors}} 

Splice-thieves made a living by selling Cybertronian parts, including transformation cogs, on the galactic black market. {{storylink|Storm Horizon Part 1}} 

=====Alternate future=====
In a potential future where [[Exarchon]] had conquered Cybertron, [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]]'s small resistance group had been forced to subsist on [[Nucleon (substance)|Nucleon]] for so long that they'd lost their ability to transform. {{storylink|Lord of Misrule: Test Flight II|Test Flight II}}

{{--}}

====''My Little Pony/Transformers''====
[[File:MLPTF3-Discord Transformation.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.66]]

The evil [[Queen Chrysalis]] cast a [[magic]] spell to summon [[changeling]]s from other worlds; however, the Transformers' innate ability to change shape meant that they counted as "changelings" for the purposes of the spell. When Chrysalis's magic interfered with a malfunctioning [[spacebridge]], several Autobots and Decepticons were duly summoned to the land of [[Equestria]] as a result. {{storylink|Transformation Is Magic}}

When [[Discord (MLP)|Discord]] attempted to befriend [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] by turning himself into a Cybertronian, he amused himself by flipping through a variety of potential [[alternate mode]]s. {{storylink|Pet Sounds}}

{{--}}

====2021 ''Beast Wars'' comic====
[[Tarantulas (BW)|Tarantulas]] used his [[Transformation Lock Lens|transformation lock lens]] to prevent [[Nyx]] from transforming into her [[beast mode]], so that she would eventually perish from overexposure to [[energon radiation]]. However, [[Dinobot (BW)|Dinobot]] destroyed the device and allowed Nyx to escape. {{storylink|Savage Landing Part 3}}

====''Last Bot Standing''====
[[File:LastBotStanding2-punt.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.66]]

When underfuelled, [[Riotgear (G1)|Riotgear]] had a tendency to get stuck between modes, necessitating a kick in the [[transformation cog]] to fully transform. {{storylink|Last Bot Standing issue 2|Last Bot Standing #2}}

{{--}}

===Movie continuity===
====Live-action film series====
Transformation is the process by which a Cybertronian's exo-structure reconfigures itself, based upon the schematics programmed into their [[Living metal|self-generating molecular armor]] when a Cybertronian [[scanning|scans]] an object or vehicle to serve as a disguise. {{storylink|Transformers: Age of Extinction (film)|Age of Extinction}} The process requires a suitable [[alternate mode]] of similar mass to a Cybertronian's [[robot mode]]; after adopting a shape, a Transformer can reorganize their physical structure at will. {{storylink|Transformers: The Movie Guide|The Movie Guide}}

The artificial Transformers created by [[Kinetic Solutions Incorporated]] transform via "hypno-transformation", a process by which their bodies dissolve into the Transformium particles of which they are composed and reconstitute into their alternate form. As with Cybertronian Transformers, this process does not allow arbitrary forms to be taken, as each must have its forms programmed into them. {{storylink|Transformers: Age of Extinction (film)|Age of Extinction}}

{{-}}

===''Animated'' continuity===
[[File:TFA-AutobootCamp-TransformUp.gif|thumb|right|upright=1.4]]

[[Sentinel Prime (Animated)|Sentinel Minor]] had recruits perform ''[[transform-up]]s'', rapidly switching from their robot to their vehicle form while in a prone position. {{storylink|Autoboot Camp}}

{{--}}

===''Shattered Glass''===
Transformation was invented by the rebel leader [[Megatron (SG)|Megatron]] to counter the numerical superiority of the Autobots. As a result of their ability to hide in plain sight, his followers dubbed themselves the [[Decepticon]]s, and successfully stalled the Autobot advance for a time. However, it didn't take long until the evil Optimus Prime replicated the technology and bestow it upon his own warriors; with both sides once again on an even footing, the Autobots were able to score a string of victories over their Decepticon foes. [[Optimus Prime (SG)|Optimus Prime]] believed that he could use the camouflage skills afforded by transformation to conquer other planets, and had many of the Autobots rebuilt with [[human]] vehicle forms in anticipation of an [[Earth]] invasion. {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}

The dimwitted [[Grimlock (SG)|Grimlock]] gained the ability to transform into an intelligent robot form when the [[Omega Terminus]] supercomputer gave him an [[Spark|ember]]. {{storylink|Dungeons & Dinobots}}

===Aligned continuity===
====''The Covenant of Primus''====
[[File:TheCovenantOfPrimus-Grimlock.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.66]]

The first Cybertronian blessed with the power of transformation was [[Amalgamous Prime]], whose miraculous T-Cog allowed him to not only change shape, but also ''state'', from solid to liquid and back. Following the fall of the [[Thirteen]] and the creation of the [[Well of All Sparks]], the remaining Primes decided that they would populate the planet with a race of lesser beings, using [[Onyx Prime]]'s [[Triptych Mask]] to establish suitable templates upon which to base the nascent Cybertronian species. As part of this effort, Amalgamous Prime donated a schematic of his T-Cog to [[Onyx Prime]], so that all future Cybertronians would inherit a simplified version of his shapeshifting ability. However, [[Prima]] ultimately chose not to inform the newly-created Cybertronian race about the T-cogs they all possessed, for fear that this powerful ability could lead to trouble. While emerging from the Well of All Sparks, newborn Cybertronians would sometimes experience dreams and visions relating to their future alternate mode, even if they did not yet know what they transformed into.

After discovering Cybertron, the [[Quintesson]]s spent years abducting primitive Cybertronians and analyzing their physiology. Finally, when they publicly revealed themselves, they claimed that they had been sent to uplift the Cybertronian race by bestowing upon them the "gift" of transformation--in reality, all they were doing was remotely activating the T-Cog. A number of Cybertronians used their new alternate modes to become personal transports, who ferried their Quintesson benefactors from place to place.  As the rule of the Quintessons grew crueler and more decadent, a growing resistance movement intercepted the newborn [[Silverbolt (WFC)|Silverbolt]] at the Well of All Sparks; a cursory examination revealed that the presence of the T-Cog and the ability to transform was a natural part of Cybertronian biology. This revelation was broadcast live to the entire planet, and kicked off the full-fledged revolt that ultimately ended with the overthrow of the Quintesson regime. 
 
During the [[Great War (Prime)|Great War]], the mad scientist [[Shockwave (WFC)|Shockwave]] captured [[Grimlock (WFC)|Grimlock]] and the other members of the [[Lightning Strike Coalition]] and subjected them to a battery of brutal experiments where they received new [[Dinosaur (dinosaur)|dinosaur]]-based alternate modes. During these experiments, [[Grimlock (WFC)|Grimlock]] wound up half-transformed; it took a week of repeatedly shocking his T-Cog until the Decepticon scientist was able to push him into his alternate mode. After this, Shockwave affixed a restrainer to Grimlock's T-Cog. 

The legendary T-Cog of Amalgamous Prime was eventually found in orbit of a [[black hole]] by a group of refugees fleeing the destruction of [[Neutronia]]. Exposure to the energies of the artifact gave the colonists the potential for infinite transformation and they rebranded themselves as the [[Mutacon]]s. {{storylink|Transformers: The Covenant of Primus|The Covenant of Primus}}

====Aligned novels====
After emerging from the [[Well of All Sparks]], newborn Cybertronians had to learn how to transform. {{storylink|Transformers: Exodus|Exodus}} A rare sub-species of Cybertronians, the [[Shifter]]s, were able to transform into anything of roughly equivalent size and mass, an ability which made them highly valued as spies. {{storylink|Transformers: Exiles|Exiles}}

====''Prime'' cartoon====
A Cybertronian's ability to transform was controlled via their T-Cog. Damage to, or loss of, the T-Cog left Cybertronians unable to transform. {{storylink|Operation Bumblebee, Part 1}}

After [[MECH]] had determined the purpose of the organ, they baited a trap for any Cybertronian and harvested [[Bumblebee (WFC)|Bumblebee]]'s T-Cog, depriving him of his ability to transform or even access his internal weapons. {{storylink|Operation Bumblebee, Part 1}} After the scout reclaimed his T-Cog, MECH harvested [[Starscream (WFC)|Starscream]]'s leaving the Seeker stuck in his robot mode. {{storylink|Operation Bumblebee, Part 2}}

After [[cloning]] [[Starscream clone (Prime)|himself]], Starscream was shocked to find his [[CNA]] had provided the clones with working T-Cogs and transformation abilities. {{storylink|Armada (episode)|Armada}} In exchange for the [[Omega Key]]s and a return to the Decepticon ranks, {{storylink|Patch (episode)|Patch}} [[Megatron (WFC)|Megatron]] had Starscream's T-Cog reinstalled much to his delight. {{storylink|Regeneration (Prime)|Regeneration}}

After witnessing several [[Vehicon (Prime)|Vehicons]] transforming, [[Predaking (Prime)|Predaking]] began to wonder if he too could transform and access a robot mode. He could. This was little surprise to Shockwave who knew transformation to a be a fundamental aspect of Cybertronian biology. Nonetheless, this was enough for Megatron to terminate Project: Predacon in the fear the beasts would turn on him. {{storylink|Evolution}} [[Optimus Prime (WFC)|Optimus Prime]] was equally troubled by Predaking's transformation. {{storylink|Minus One}}

====''Transformers: Fall of Cybertron''====
After reformatting the [[Lightning Strike Coalition|Lightning Strike Coalition Force]] with [[Dinosaur (dinosaur)|alien]] alternate modes, [[Shockwave (WFC)|Shockwave]] deliberately barred [[Grimlock (WFC)|Grimlock]]'s ability to transform, wanting the Autobot to figure that he could now transform only when sufficiently angry. The other members of the group still retained their full transformation potential however. {{storylink|Transformers: Fall of Cybertron|Fall of Cybertron}}

===''TransTech''===
"Interpretive morphing", in which performers transformed in novel and artistic methods, was a popular form of self-expression and a regular feature on ''[[Cybertron’s Got Talent]]''. {{storylink|Andromeda - Axiom Nexus News Reporter|Andromeda - Axiom Nexus News, 2015/05/14}}

===''Go-Bots'' comic===
The [[GoBot]]s were designed to transform as a means to solve the parking problem, originally being cars that could assume a robot mode so they could walk with their owners. {{storylink|Go-Bots issue 1|Go-Bots #1}}

===''Cyberverse'' cartoon===
After the Quintessons had invaded Cybertron, they locked the populace in a virtual reality that could be broken only if the subject transformed. {{storylink|The Dead End}} [[Perceptor (Cyberverse)|Perceptor]] successfully freed everyone trapped in the simulation by using a simulated flock of [[Air Hammer (Cyberverse)|Air Hammers]] to startle everyone into transforming. {{storylink|The Scientist}}

===''EarthSpark'' cartoon===
The [[Terran]]s [[Twitch]] and [[Thrash (ES)|Thrash]] had to learn how to transform by training in an environment where they felt safe and calm. {{storylink|Moo-ving in}}

==Notes==
==="Transform" as a verb===
[[File:Convert and roll out.jpg|thumb|upright=1.5|Famous quote of Optimus Prime.]]
For reasons relating to intellectual property law, and the need to preserve "Transformers" as a [[trademark]], [[Hasbro]] and [[TakaraTomy]] do not use "transform" as a verb to describe this ability of Transformers in printed materials describing products. Instead synonyms such as "convert" and "morph" are used. Products that are not able to change modes are given a disclaimer such as "product does not convert". This disclaimer extends to the ''[[Kre-O]]'' Transformers and [[Kreon]] [[Micro-Changer]]s, indicating that "convert" is used in a technical sense that does not apply to the "disassemble and rebuild" [[play pattern]] of ''Kre-O'' toys.

For some time, this restriction didn't extend to in-fiction dialogue. However, since [[2010]], Hasbro has preferred to err on the safe side; the novel ''[[Transformers: Exodus]]'' used "proto-form" and "alt-form" as verbs to describe transforming from vehicle to robot and vice versa, while [[James Roberts]] has said that Hasbro has asked that other terms be used when writing [[IDW Publishing|IDW]] comics such as ''[[The Transformers: More than Meets the Eye|More Than Meets the Eye]]''. Exceptions have been made, though, when dialogue or drama strongly called for it, such as [[NAIL protester|the NAIL who transformed himself to death]]. {{storylink|Liars, A to D Part 1: How to Say Goodbye and Mean It|How to Say Goodbye and Mean It}}<ref>[http://www.transmissionspodcast.com/2015/03/transmissions-episode-94-james-roberts-mtmte-elegant-chaos-interview/ Transmissions podcast #94 - James Roberts MTMTE Elegant Chaos Interview]</ref>

All this has proven troublesome given that one of the most famous phrases associated with the ''Transformers'' brand is "[[Roll out|transform and roll out!]]". In ''[[Transformers: Fall of Cybertron|Fall of Cybertron]]'', [[Ratchet (WFC)|Ratchet]] actually commands [[Bumblebee (WFC)|Bumblebee]] to "change form and roll out", and [[Optimus Prime (WFC)|Optimus Prime]] only ordered his team to "[[Roll out|transform and roll out]]" twice during the ''[[Transformers: Prime (cartoon)|Prime]]'' cartoon, opting instead for a "roll out" for the majority of the series; sister series ''[[Transformers: Rescue Bots (cartoon)|Rescue Bots]]'' and sequel ''[[Transformers: Robots in Disguise (2015 cartoon)|Robots in Disguise]]'' had their protagonists use alternative catchprases, "[[Heatwave (RB)|roll to the rescue!]]" and "[[Bumblebee (WFC)|rev up and roll out!]]". Somewhat infamously, the [[2022]] [[Optimus Prime (G1)/toys#LEGO|''LEGO Creator Expert'' Optimus Prime set]] just gave up and had "Autobots, convert and roll out!" in its instruction booklet.

When [[Magic: The Gathering]] produced ''Transformers'', a small bonus set of cards featuring Transformers characters release alongside ''The Brothers' War'', this was invoked yet again, as despite the game having a thematically-appropriate "Transform" mechanic, the cards in that set "Convert" instead. In addition to being mechanically redundant and disappointingly flavorless, it raised questions about rule interactions with cards that referenced "Transform" (and precise wording is crucial in such a rules-strict game such as Magic). An article by Magic's head designer soon confirmed that the use of "Convert" was entirely a matter of conforming with the Transformers IP, and it's ''exactly the same'' as "Transform" in every possible way.<ref>[https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/making-magic/odds-and-ends-the-brothers-war Making Magic, Odds & Ends: The Brothers' War]</ref>
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==References==
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[[Category:Biology]]
[[Category:Technology]]
[[Category:Transformer culture]]
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