Transformers Universe

Transformers fans, you just got a whole new reason to get excited.

Jagex, the independent studio developing Transformers Universe, announced that the all-new TransformersUniverse.com has launched to accompany the massively-multiplayer online game set in everyone's favorite mechanical shape-shifting world as it marches toward beta in 2013.

Jagex has some big plans for Transformers Universe this weekend at New York Comic Con. Not only will attendees get to view game footage, customize their own character and have their photo taken with their creation, but they'll also have the opportunity to to vote for the names of one of the classes! Here are the details on the class for each faction:

• AUTOBOT: "They follow a strict code in the field. They have a job to do and orders must be followed, but initiative is welcomed and acted upon. They watch then execute relying on exact intel and contacts in the field. They gather and organise disposing of the enemy quickly and professionally." Possible names: Sentry, Guardian, Marshal, or your own recommendation.
• DECEPTICON: "Slick and precise; they strike in the name of the Decepticons. They are unforgiving and relentless and dealing justice in the field they seldom take prisoners or hostages. They deftly deliver destruction, remove the spoils of war and prefer to leave without a trace." Possible names: Agent, Dissenter, Infiltrator, or your own recommendation.

If you're not attending New York Comic Con, you can still cast your vote on the Transformers Universe Facebook page by Sunday, October 16 at 5 p.m. EDT.

Jagex released some details and concept art for Transformers Universe's Brawler class at Gamescom today. That's a Decepticon Brawler on the left and an Autobot Brawler on the right. Here's what Senior Producer Kris Jones had to say about the class:

“Players who like to engage as the tank in co-op team play will be drawn to this Brawler Class. The strength and resilience of this class makes it the perfect choice for those who like to get up close in a battle environment, for those who like a good brawl.”

In addition to the reveal, Jagex is showing off the game's customization options at the convention. Booth attendees get to customize either an Autobot or a Decepticon and receive printouts of the characters they create.

Executive Producer Kris Jones told Eurogamer that the Transformers Universe beta will begin "very soon" as Jagex gears up for a 2012 launch. He also provided more details on the upcoming browser game. Here are some of his most noteworthy points:

• They're not making a game based on any existing continuity. "We've been very clear that we want to take from all over the universe. That's why it's called Universe," Jones said.
• Vehicles will be "an integral part of combat" and transportation. Your choice of vehicle will be restricted by your choice of class. "But there will still be variety - if you pick one class you're not going to get stuck with one vehicle. And that's something we plan on building up over years," he said.
• The MMO will have an "adult" tone. It will be aimed at players who were Transformers fans in the '80s, but it will also be accessible to newcomers.

While we wait for more beta details, check out the latest Transformers Universe teaser trailer below.

Back in March, Jagex and Hasbro announced that they had joined forces to create a Transformers MMO. Today, they revealed the game's name: Transformers Universe.

Players can now head over to the Transformers Universe site to register for the newsletter to receive more information about the upcoming browser-based game. The site is sparse at this point, but the image hints that players will be able to choose between joining the Autobots and Decepticons in 2012.

Jagex will be unveiling more Transformers Universe details at BotCon this weekend. Fans who attend the official Transformers convention will get to meet members of the development team and watch exclusive video footage of how a character is developed in-game. They will also get to create their own character from in-game assets. According to the press release, "The ability to design and customize your own Transformers character will be a key feature in the game."