What if the Hasbro Shared Television Animated Universe, or Allsparkverse, were to be a bold, interconnected PG-13/TV-14-rated franchise, developed in collaboration with Nickelodeon, Paramount Animation, Hasbro Entertainment, and top Japanese and Korean animation studios, featuring a diverse team of seasoned and emerging directors, writers, producers, animators, and an all-star voice cast? Serving as the foundation, Transformers and G.I. Joe would merge into a cohesive universe, incorporating elements from various sources, including Marvel Comics' G.I. Joe and Transformers, Sunbow’s 80s series, G.I. Joe 1989, Beast Wars and Beast Machines, G.I. Joe: Sigma 6, the live-action Transformers and G.I. Joe films, G.I. Joe: Resolute, G.I. Joe: Renegades, IDW’s Hasbro comic universe, Skybound’s Energon Universe, the Unicron Trilogy (Energon, Armada, and Cybertron), Transformers: Animated, and the Aligned Continuity (Transformers: Prime and Robots in Disguise). Drawing further inspiration from Star Wars, Call of Duty, Green Lantern Corps, Batman Beyond, Mass Effect, Netflix’s Ultraman (2019), Voltron: Legendary Defender, Power Rangers (including Ninja Storm, Wild Force, Dino Thunder, SPD, Mystic Force, Turbo, Samurai, and Lost Galaxy), Gundam, Metal Gear, and Gears of War, the Allsparkverse would combine these influences to create a layered, multi-genre narrative. It would be structured similarly to successful shared universes such as James Gunn’s DC Universe, Legendary’s Monsterverse, the Arrowverse, Netflix’s Castlevania, Disney+’s Star Wars series, Paramount+’s Star Trek shows, and NBC’s One Chicago franchise, with interconnected series like my young adult and teen drama version of Nickelodeon’s *Transformers: Earthspark*, *G.I. Joe: Epsilon Force* (focusing on military operations against Cobra), *G.I. Joe: Shinobi Squad* (a cyberpunk ninja espionage thriller), *Void Rivals* (an intergalactic adventure exploring the Energon Universe), *M.A.S.K.* (blending vehicular combat with espionage), and *Visionaries: Magical Knights of Light* (a sci-fi fantasy fusion of magic and technology). The universe would also feature special crossover events, such as *G.I. Joe vs. Transformers*, where Cobra allies with the Decepticons or a new faction threatens both Earth and Cybertron. Unlike previous live-action films or *Transformers One*, this universe would emphasize deep character development, political and military intrigue, and complex themes of war, identity, and power, all while maintaining thrilling action and adventure. G.I. Joe’s legacy would be explored through its Marvel Comics roots, Sunbow’s 80s series, Sigma 6, and its live-action franchise, along with darker and grittier elements from *Resolute* and *Renegades*. Meanwhile, Transformers would honor its Marvel Comics origins, Sunbow’s series, the Unicron Trilogy, *Animated*, and the Aligned Continuity, integrating these interpretations into a single, expansive narrative. Key storylines would involve the G.I. Joe team, led by General Hawk, combating Cobra, while Autobots and Decepticons navigate alliances and rivalries amidst galactic threats, with crossover potential extending even to characters from the Marvel universe, such as Spider-Man and Iron Man. Streaming exclusively on Paramount+, with a massive multi-platform marketing push including toys, comics, novels, apparel, and video games, the reimagined Hasbro universe would captivate both longtime fans and a new generation by delivering high-quality storytelling, cinematic animation, and an immersive, interconnected world filled with dynamic crossovers, epic battles, and nuanced character interactions. This ambitious vision offers immense storytelling potential by blending iconic brands like Transformers and G.I. Joe into a cohesive universe, drawing on a wide range of genres such as sci-fi, espionage, military tactics, and fantasy. With a more mature tone, the Allsparkverse engages older fans while attracting younger viewers, exploring themes of war, identity, power, and political intrigue. Crossover events like *G.I. Joe vs. Transformers* would allow for thrilling character interactions and dramatic clashes, further expanding the narrative universe. Dedicated arcs for beloved characters such as Cobra Commander, Optimus Prime, and General Hawk ensure emotional investment, while the expansive scope of the universe introduces challenges such as balancing tonal consistency across varied franchises—from the grittier elements of *G.I. Joe: Resolute* to the fantastical aspects of *Visionaries*. Logistical complexity, such as managing crossovers while preserving each franchise’s unique identity, also presents challenges, as does the task of blending nostalgia with fresh, modern storytelling to meet the expectations of long-time followers and new fans. A robust multi-platform marketing strategy would be crucial, involving TV, comics, toys, video games, and interactive online content, along with promotional events like live-streamed *G.I. Joe vs. Transformers* crossovers, exclusive screenings, and collaborations with influencers. Content drops such as trailers, sneak peeks, companion comics, and mobile games would keep fans engaged between seasons. Key character arcs for Optimus Prime, Cobra Commander, General Hawk, Snake Eyes, and Storm Shadow would deepen the emotional stakes, while immersive promotional experiences, such as virtual reality simulations, customizable merchandise, and exclusive collectibles, would further engage fans. Crossovers like *G.I. Joe & Transformers: Dark Alliance* and *G.I. Joe vs. Transformers: Omega War* would open up possibilities for epic, high-stakes battles, with the complex dynamics between characters from both sides adding depth to the universe. As the Allsparkverse revitalizes both the *Transformers* and *G.I. Joe* brands, it would offer a fresh, immersive experience for both long-time fans and newcomers alike, redefining these iconic franchises while expanding the scope of interconnected storytelling in a shared universe.
Reimagined as a young adult animated series, Transformers: Earthspark offers a unique opportunity to explore complex themes, character development, and intense storytelling that resonates with older teenage audiences, blending deep storytelling, darker themes, and intense action across multiple seasons. Set 16-20 years after the Great War on Cybertron and Earth, the series follows biracial teenage siblings Daniel and Nancy, children of Spike (or Sam) and Carly, as they uncover their heritage and navigate a post-war world where Earth-based Transformers - Twitch, Thrash, Hashtag, Jawbreaker, and Nightshade - were created by the Thirteen Primes using Emberstones in ancient times. With Optimus Prime, Hot Rod, Bumblebee, Arcee, Elita One, Jazz, Grimlock, Drift, Ultra Magnus, Cheetor, Airazor, and Wingblade acting as mentors, and some Decepticons like Megatron, Soundwave, Blackarachnia, and Waspinator undergoing redemption arcs, the story explores the lasting effects of the war, introducing a vast array of Hasbro characters, including G.I. Joe, M.A.S.K., Inhumanoids, Visionaries, Void Rivals Action Man, Micronauts, and Rom the Space Knight, creating an interconnected Hasbro animated universe. The series draws inspiration from various Transformers continuities, as well as non-Transformers franchises like Netflix Ultraman, Green Lantern Corps, Steven Universe, Euphoria, Captain Marvel, Encanto, Ms. Marvel, Mobile Suit Gundam, Mass Effect, Star Wars Clone Wars and Bad Batch, X-Men '97, Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, Batman Beyond, and Superman & Lois, combining the gritty realism of "Transformers: War for Cybertron" with the bold, stylized cel-shading of "Marvel's What If...?" to offer a cinematic experience that balances high-intensity action with expressive character work and mechanical design from Gen:Lock. The character arcs for an older audience could revolve around personal struggles, the weight of legacy, and the search for belonging, with a focus on Daniel and Nancy's journey of self-discovery as they learn about their connection to the Thirteen Primes and their newfound powers, exploring identity, belonging, and the consequences of the war. Optimus Prime's arc would focus on redemption and the moral implications of his past decisions during the Great War, as he navigates the psychological toll of leadership and the burden of responsibility in a fractured world, seeking to redefine his purpose. Themes of identity, legacy, self-discovery, and redemption would be woven throughout the series, with Daniel and Nancy's biracial struggles reflecting real-life challenges of racial identity, self-acceptance, and living in a world that categorizes people based on race. The series would also address the psychological impact of war, including PTSD, grief, and the difficult process of rebuilding a society in the aftermath of conflict, while exploring current social issues like racial justice, mental health, environmentalism, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. By incorporating sibling dynamics, themes of friendship, loyalty, trauma, and recovery, and drawing inspiration from popular shows like Euphoria, Ms. Marvel, Avatar: The Last Airbender, and The Umbrella Academy, Transformers: Earthspark would blend science fiction and fantasy to explore complex themes of identity, community, and self-discovery, tackling real-world issues and making the series both thought-provoking and deeply relatable to an older teenage audience.
G.I. Joe Epsilon Squadron
In the near-future world of *G.I. Joe*, a new generation of Joes rises, led by Scarlett and Roadblock, who assemble a diverse team of young heroes with unique skills and backgrounds to confront a wave of modern threats that blend mythology with cutting-edge science in an action-packed narrative. This team, tasked with facing the unprecedented rise of uncanny terrorism, must tackle superhuman adversaries—such as Serpentor variants, clones, and doppelgangers—created by Doctor Venom and Mindbender using advanced genetic technology that fuses the DNA of legendary figures from Egyptian and Greek mythology. These formidable foes, enhanced with superhuman abilities, are joined by animal-like mutants born from experiments with mythical creatures, forcing the Joes to embark on high-stakes missions that span mythical realms to recover ancient artifacts granting extraordinary powers. With members like Duke, Snake Eyes, and Scarlett no longer on the frontlines, General Hawk and Roadblock must uncover a sinister secret that threatens global stability. As the Joes face these threats, they grapple with complex relationships, betrayals, leadership conflicts, and moral ambiguity, with characters from history and myth either challenging or aligning with them. The team is forced to confront the consequences of using their inherited powers in an era where advanced technology collides with mythological forces, resulting in epic battles that threaten the fabric of reality itself. Meanwhile, character twists, such as a female Stalker who becomes a love interest for Storm Shadow, adding emotional depth to his character, or a female Doctor Venom in a toxic relationship with Doctor Mindbender, deepen the complexity of their personalities and interactions. These reimaginings offer a fresh take on the *G.I. Joe* universe, creating thrilling adventures that explore diverse character relationships and narratives, enhanced by a dynamic visual style, a compelling soundtrack, and limitless possibilities for character development, appealing to both longtime fans and new audiences. The series, *G.I. Joe: Epsilon Force*, stars a new team of heroes like Falcon, a skilled leader and the half-brother of Duke, voiced by Robbie Amell; Jinx, a skilled kunoichi and ex-girlfriend of Falcon, voiced by Brenda Song; and Mercer, a former Cobra Viper, voiced by Kyle Herbert, alongside other members such as Quick Kick, Mainframe, Doc, and Cyber-Tech, reprogrammed by Mainframe. Legendary Joes like Hawk, Duke, Snake Eyes, Scarlett, and Roadblock return, voiced by Eric Roberts, Freddie Prinze Jr., Laura Bailey, and Khary Payton, while the Arashikage Clan—led by Storm Shadow, voiced by Hoon Lee—plays a crucial role. The antagonists include The Coil, a secret cabal of terrorists and remnants of Cobra, led by Darklon, voiced by Jason O'Mara, and Cobra-La, an ancient civilization represented by Golobulus, voiced by Mark Hamill. Other villains include Beastial Troopers with animal DNA and Meta-Vipers, enhanced with superhuman abilities, adding further challenges. The series draws inspiration from *G.I. Joe Sigma 6*, *Metal Gear Solid*, *Star Wars Resistance*, and *Transformers Robots in Disguise*, blending military fiction, science fiction, action, adventure, comedy, and drama, with a TV-PG-V or TV-14-LVS rating. The theme song is performed by Young Jeezy and ASAP Ferg, produced by Henry Gilroy, directed by Nick Filippi, written by Adam Beechen, and composed by Adam Berry, creating an immersive experience that redefines the *G.I. Joe* franchise for a new generation.
G.I. Joe Shinobi Force:
*G.I. Joe: Shadows of the Arashikage* is an action-packed, ninja-centric animated spinoff of the *G.I. Joe* universe, where Snake Eyes and Storm Shadow lead an elite team of Arashikage warriors, forming a covert G.I. Joe task force specializing in black-ops missions, counterintelligence, and supernatural threats. Rooted in Japanese mythology, mysticism, and martial arts, the series explores deep themes of loyalty, honor, redemption, and the internal struggles of its characters while introducing new rival ninja clans empowered by dark forces, bioengineering, and forbidden knowledge. The Arashikage face the Oni-Kage Clan, also known as the Shadow of Demons, a powerful faction harnessing the abilities of supernatural creatures from Japanese folklore—some warriors can transform into oni demons for enhanced strength and durability, while others summon yurei spirits, weave kitsune illusions, employ tengu flight, or set deadly jorogumo traps, all within a hierarchical power structure driven by fear and ambition. Meanwhile, the Kokuryū, or Black Dragon Clan, led by the enigmatic Kokuryū-no-Kami, seek ultimate supremacy through Cobra-La’s biotechnology, utilizing shape-shifting, dark magic, and demonic summoning to challenge the Arashikage. Another faction, the Oni-Kiru, or Demon Cutters, emerges as a long-standing Arashikage adversary, using similar genetic enhancements to weaponize their bodies with yokai-based transformations and shadow-travel techniques, forcing Snake Eyes, Storm Shadow, and their team to master new skills and tactics in order to survive. Against the backdrop of a global conspiracy involving Cobra, ancient prophecies, and warring ideologies, the story unfolds through high-stakes missions, intense martial arts combat, and stealth-based infiltrations, culminating in legendary battles between clans and rival warriors.
The series would introduce a new generation of ninja warriors, led by Billy Kessler, the 21-year-old son of Cobra Commander and apprentice of Storm Shadow, who commands the G.I. Joe-Arashikage joint team alongside Dawn Moreno, Snake Eyes’ young protégée and the first female to take on his mantle after surviving a Cobra kidnapping at 15. Their squad includes Bushido (Koji Sakamoto), Nunchuk (Rebecca Badducci), Dojo (Michael P. Russo), and Low-Light (Cooper G. MacBride), a reimagined version of the classic G.I. Joe sniper who struggles to balance his stoic precision with the unpredictability of ninja warfare under Snake Eyes and Scarlett’s guidance. The series would explore the complex dynamics between its characters, particularly Dawn and Billy’s slow-burning romance, torn between their allegiances to G.I. Joe, the Arashikage, and Billy’s conflicted feelings about his father’s dark legacy, as they navigate trust, loyalty, and identity. Meanwhile, core *G.I. Joe* and Arashikage figures—Duke, Scarlett, Roadblock, Stalker, Jinx, Kamakura, Blind Master, Tiger Claw, and Akiko—play crucial roles in the overarching conflict against Cobra and the rising ninja clans.
With a visual style blending dynamic martial arts animation, fluid combat sequences, and a fusion of traditional Japanese aesthetics with futuristic espionage elements, *Shadows of the Arashikage* draws inspiration from *G.I. Joe Spy Troops*, *G.I. Joe Ninja Battle*, *G.I. Joe Resolute*, *G.I. Joe Renegades*, *Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge*, *Naruto Shippuden*, *Ninja Gaiden*, *Ninja Scroll*, *Ninja Kamui*, *Onimusha*, *Power Rangers Ninja Storm*, *Beware the Batman*, *Batman vs. Robin*, and *Son of Batman*. Major story arcs include the resurgence of an ancient enemy clan empowered by Cobra-La’s genetic experiments, the ninja squad’s intense mystical training, supernatural forces unleashing chaos through demonic entities, Storm Shadow’s internal conflict with betrayal and redemption, and a climactic battle where the Arashikage must defend their legacy against overwhelming darkness. Showdowns between Snake Eyes and the Oni Leader, Scarlett and the Kitsune Assassin, Storm Shadow and the Tengu Warrior, and Jinx against the Jorogumo Hunter will define the series, merging the best elements of high-tech espionage, ancient martial arts, and mythical storytelling, ultimately expanding the *G.I. Joe* franchise into an immersive world of action, intrigue, and supernatural warfare.
This concept for the Allsparkverse presents a bold and ambitious vision for a shared universe, combining iconic brands like Transformers and G.I. Joe with other Hasbro properties. The proposed interconnected series, such as Transformers: Earthspark, G.I. Joe: Epsilon Force, and G.I. Joe: Shinobi Squad, offer a range of genres and tones, from sci-fi adventure to military action and supernatural espionage.
Key strengths of this concept include:
Rich character development: The proposed series offer opportunities for complex character arcs, exploring themes of identity, legacy, and redemption.
Interconnected storytelling: The shared universe allows for crossovers and interactions between characters from different franchises, creating a vast and immersive world.
Diverse genres and tones: The various series cater to different audience preferences, from action-adventure to science fiction and fantasy.
However, challenges may arise in:
Balancing tonal consistency: Managing the diverse tones and genres across the different series to maintain a cohesive universe.
Logistical complexity: Coordinating crossovers and preserving each franchise's unique identity while creating a unified narrative.
The proposed marketing strategy, including TV, comics, toys, video games, and interactive online content, would help engage fans and attract new audiences.
The reimagined Transformers: Earthspark series offers a fresh take on the franchise, exploring complex themes and character development for an older teenage audience. The introduction of new characters, such as Daniel and Nancy, and the incorporation of diverse influences, like Netflix's Ultraman and Steven Universe, add depth and variety to the series.
The G.I. Joe: Epsilon Force and G.I. Joe: Shinobi Squad series offer exciting opportunities for action-packed storytelling, character development, and exploration of complex themes. The incorporation of mythological and supernatural elements adds a unique twist to the G.I. Joe franchise.
Overall, this concept presents a compelling vision for a shared universe, offering rich storytelling opportunities, complex character development, and immersive world-building. With careful management of tonal consistency and logistical complexity, the Allsparkverse has the potential to captivate both longtime fans and new audiences.
After the G.I. Joe and Transformers crossover movie and the subsequent sequel to *Transformers One*, Hasbro should focus on revitalizing its cinematic and multimedia universe by reimagining both the G.I. Joe and Transformers franchises, drawing inspiration from the classic 80s cartoons, Skybound’s Energon Universe, IDW comics, and Marvel Comics. This reimagining would expand the lore with new animated series, live-action films, and spin-off television shows that incorporate other Hasbro properties like R.O.M. Space Knight, Void Rivals, Visionaries, and M.A.S.K. The Hasbro Cinematic Universe (HCU) would blend gritty military realism with sci-fi and fantasy elements, akin to franchises like Star Wars, DC, Star Trek, and Marvel, while maintaining the core essence of G.I. Joe and Transformers. Iconic characters like Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, Arcee, Grimlock, Elita, Duke, Snake Eyes, Roadblock, Scarlett, Cobra Commander, Storm Shadow, Destro, and Baroness would be central to this revitalization, providing opportunities for deep character development, backstory exploration, and thrilling crossovers. The formation of an alliance between Cobra and the Decepticons could introduce fresh challenges for both G.I. Joe and the Autobots, while a crossover series or film where the G.I. Joe team confronts alien technology alongside Transformers characters would captivate a global audience, offering possibilities for merchandise, video games, and other media. As the G.I. Joe and Transformers narratives develop, they could intersect with other Hasbro IPs like M.A.S.K., where advanced tech-savvy operatives work alongside G.I. Joe, and Visionaries, where mystic powers become key to the plot. This HCU would combine action, adventure, and drama, with character-driven storytelling across TV, movies, and video games. Expanding the world with military tactics, advanced technology, supernatural entities, and magical artifacts would create a dynamic, interactive fan experience. Through crossover events and multi-platform stories, Hasbro could tap into both nostalgia and modern sensibilities, creating exciting narratives and crossovers that keep audiences engaged. By introducing both classic and new characters, Hasbro could establish a long-term plan that sets G.I. Joe and Transformers apart from other action franchises and rivals the cinematic success of Marvel, DC, Star Trek, and Star Wars, creating an interconnected universe rich in history, politics, and mythology. The involvement of legendary creators like Bob Budiansky, the writer behind Marvel’s Transformers comics, and Larry Hama, the mastermind behind Marvel’s G.I. Joe, would bring invaluable expertise to these franchises, ensuring that the deep-rooted lore is honored while fresh, innovative storytelling is introduced. Budiansky’s contributions could expand the Transformers universe, focusing on the complexity of characters like Optimus Prime, Megatron, and Bumblebee, while Hama’s influence could bring a grittier, more realistic tone to G.I. Joe, exploring the personal stakes, moral dilemmas, and the human cost of war. Crossovers between the two franchises could become a reality, with Autobots and Joes working side by side, and Cobra and Megatron forming a high-stakes alliance. These creators would craft character-driven stories that appeal to both longtime and new fans, offering subseries and spin-offs like a G.I. Joe animated series focused on character backstories or a Transformers limited series about specific Autobots. This creative renaissance would be full of rich world-building, heartfelt storytelling, and action-packed sequences, while staying true to their beloved origins and pushing forward in bold new directions, creating an unforgettable future for these franchises. By focusing on deep character development, exploring backstories and motivations, and utilizing techniques like the Hero’s Flaw, characters like Optimus Prime, Snake Eyes, Megatron, Cobra Commander, and Storm Shadow could become more relatable, engaging the audience emotionally. Personal stakes could drive plotlines, such as Arcee, Bumblebee, and Scarlett facing personal loss or a duty to protect loved ones. The merging of these iconic properties into one interconnected universe would allow for espionage, alien technology, mystic powers, and thrilling crossovers, attracting a global audience and driving excitement for toys, video games, and other media. By learning from the MCU's interconnected storytelling and character arcs across multiple films and shows, Hasbro can create a unified, expansive universe where loyalty, betrayal, sacrifice, and power resonate with audiences. Narrative devices like flashbacks, foreshadowing, and non-linear storytelling would deepen characters' motivations, while side stories and subplots could enrich the overall narrative. Applying techniques like dialogue-driven development and action-driven development would enhance character engagement, showcasing strengths, weaknesses, and leadership skills in battle. Through emotional character development, Hasbro could explore the internal arcs of characters like Duke, Cobra Commander, and Storm Shadow, making them more compelling and driving the audience’s emotional investment. This multimedia strategy would transform the Hasbro Universe into a dynamic and compelling franchise, with characters growing and evolving over time, fostering a deeper emotional connection with the audience.
