Transformers fans are in for a treat as one of the most iconic G1 Decepticons gets his boldest redesign yet, a complete reimagining of the classic villain. Even better, this wasn’t just a creative decision. Fans played a direct role, voting to determine which iconic Transformer would receive a brand-new alternate mode.
Fans of Transformers may remember that back in July, Hasbro gave them the chance to vote for which classic Autobot or Decepticon would receive a new alternate mode as part of the “Activate Your Alt Mode” campaign. Contenders included Optimus Prime, Megatron, Bumblebee, Grimlock, and Shockwave.
On Transformers Day 2025, Hasbro revealed the winner: Shockwave, who gained a one-eyed humpback whale and a spaceship as his new alternate modes. The humpback design is one of the villain’s wildest yet, adding to his legendary alt mode legacy.
From Gun to Whale: Shockwave’s Most Jaw-Dropping Alt Mode Ever
How Shockwave’s Humpback Whale Mode Honors His Classic Design
As most fans know, Shockwave’s classic G1 alt form from the 1980s was a Cybertronian gun/cannon. Over the years, his alternate mode has been reimagined multiple times across different continuities, though the concept of him transforming into a weapon has remained central. Due to the firearm mode’s controversial nature, his other alt modes have included Cybertronian tanks, satellites, and spaceships.
None of these designs, however, marks as dramatic a departure from his classic form as his new bestial alternate mode. Transformed into a humpback whale, Shockwave’s latest look is instantly memorable, yet retains defining features such as the single eye and a mouth that opens to reveal a blaster resembling his classic cannon head.
Shockwave’s signature blaster ‘hand’ is cleverly integrated as the whale’s tail, completing the homage. This bestial alt mode is especially significant given that Shockwave was absent from the “Beast Era” of Beast Wars: Transformers. In this sense, the design fills a notable gap in the Decepticon’s history while offering one of his most epic looks yet.
The Whale Version of Shockwave Is Here, but Will Fans See More Than Concept Art?
Could This Bold Redesign Become Part of Transformers’ Official Comic Narrative?
As of now, there is no official word on when fans will get to see the plastic version of Shockwave’s new alternate mode. For now, only concept art has been revealed, and Hasbro has noted that the design may change. The bigger question on many fans’ minds is whether this bold new form will appear beyond just the toy line.
While it might be a stretch to see Shockwave’s whale mode in the Transformers movies, there’s a strong chance it could appear in the comics. Incorporating this form into narrative canon would be exciting, especially if the design and toy prove popular with fans, potentially increasing its likelihood of becoming a recognized part of the Transformers universe.