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==1984 The Transformers==
==1984 The Transformers==
{{Infobox character|
name =Thundercracker
|image =
|caption =
|affiliation =Decepticon:
<br>Action Masters, Basic Vehicles, Deluxe Vehicles, [[Seekers (Transformers)|Seekers]]
|significant_others =Starscream, Skywarp, Dirge, Bug Bite, Dreadwind, Motormaster, and Thrust
<!-- |function =Warrior, Aerial Assault, Rebel Warrior, Aerial Espionage
|motto ="''The deadliest weapon is terror.''"<br>''"The best weapon is terror!"'' (Machine Wars)<br>"''The ringing in your ears is the sound of your own destruction.''" (Classics)
|alternatemodes =[[McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle]], Cybertronian Jet, [[Dassault Rafale|Dassault Rafale fighter jet]], [[Rattler (G.I. Joe)|Cobra Rattler]], [[Mitsuoka Orochi]] -->
|series =''[[Transformers: Generation 1]]''<br> ''[[Machine Wars]]''<br> ''[[Smallest Transformers]]''<br> ''[[Transformers: Robot Masters]]''<br> ''[[Transformers: Titanium]]''<br>''[[Transformers: Timelines]]''<br>''[[Transformers: Masterpiece]]''<br>''[[Transformers: Alternity]]''<br>"[[Transformers: Generations]]"
|voice =[[John Stephenson (actor)|John Stephenson]] (Television series)<br>[[Wally Burr]] (''War Dawn'' only)<br>[[André Sogliuzzo]] (''[[Transformers: Devastation]]'')
<br>[[Yutaka Shimaka]] (Japan television series)<br>[[Kenjiro Tsuda]] ([[The Transformers: Mystery of Convoy|Q Transformers: Mystery of Convoy]])
}}
Thundercracker is one of the original Decepticon Seekers from the first year of the series. He is a warrior who usually turns into a jet. He sometimes helps form the [[Sky Reign]] combiner.
Thundercracker is one of the original Decepticon Seekers from the first year of the series. He is a warrior who usually turns into a jet. He sometimes helps form the [[Sky Reign]] combiner.
===Marvel Comics===
{{unreferenced section|date= November 2023}}
In the Marvel comics series, Thundercracker was depicted as one of Starscream's [[lieutenants]], along with fellow Seeker [[Skywarp]]. (This point was driven home by the fact that while Thundercracker's colors were noticeably different from both Starscream and Skywarp, in the comics he was colored a dark, almost black shade of blue with only the colors of their wing stripes—when drawn in—made the two look different.) Frequently in the early issues, Thundercracker is seen fighting alongside Skywarp, although Thundercracker was shown to be a smarter fighter.
One of the original ten Decepticons that fell to Earth in the ''[[Ark (Transformers)|Ark]]''. Thundercracker was reactivated and given the Earth mode of an F-15 jet. He would participate in many of the early battles against the Autobots - until a disastrous raid by Megatron led to Thundercracker, along with [[Starscream]], [[Skywarp]], Buzzsaw, [[Rumble (Transformers)|Rumble]], and [[Frenzy (Transformers)|Frenzy]], getting deactivated by [[Omega Supreme]]. In the U.S. continuity Thundercracker was eventually rescued along with the other captive Decepticons, by [[Ratbat]]'s forces, although he returned much earlier in the UK comics, where he was displaced to a limbo dimension by the arrival of future Autobots alongside Frenzy and [[Shockwave (Transformers)|Shockwave]], where they had to work with [[Optimus Prime]], [[Prowl (Transformers)|Prowl]] and [[Ratchet (Transformers)|Ratchet]] to survive. He would then participate in the battles against [[Scorponok]]'s Decepticons and then against the Autobots using their united force. None realized, however, that it was all a ruse by Starscream to gain the power of the [[Underbase]] for himself. The Autobots and Decepticons would then unite to stop him, but Starscream's power was too great, and Thundercracker was one of those deactivated by his former wingmate. He was not seen again until the G2 comic, where he seemingly took command of the Decepticon aerial contingent against the forces of [[Jhiaxus]].
According to his expanded Transformers Universe biography, Thundercracker is unique among his fellow Decepticons in that he has a certain amount of pity for the humans they continually endanger or kill. He does not see the point of killing humans just to kill them, although he is very careful not to reveal this. No matter what small amount of sympathy Thundercracker feels for humans, his sense of self-preservation (and fear of what [[Megatron]] would do if he found out) outweighs it.
===Animated series===
Thundercracker was one of the first [[Decepticon]]s to awaken on Earth in 1984. After laying dormant for four million years, he shared the same Earthen appearance as [[Starscream]] and [[Skywarp]] and is usually allied with them during attacks.
Despite being one of the original Decepticons and appearing in many battles during 1984 and 1985, Thundercracker had few prominent roles.
Often chafing under Starscream's self-importance and glory-seeking, he seemed to dislike Starscream and exploited reasons to undermine his authority, such as letting the Autobot [[Jetfire|Skyfire]] destroy one of their secret weapons merely so Starscream would get the blame.
In the year 2005, Thundercracker was present during the battle for Autobot City, and was gunned down by Optimus Prime and earlier Kup. With the subsequent defeat of their leader, [[Megatron]], the Decepticons were forced to retreat. However, there were too many Decepticons aboard [[Astrotrain]] (who served as an impromptu escape vehicle), and Thundercracker was among those few Decepticons too weakened to put up a fight to stay on board. Being cast out into space, the damaged Decepticons drifted into the path of [[Unicron]], and Thundercracker's body was used to create [[Scourge (Transformers)|Scourge]], one of [[Galvatron]]'s new warriors.
In the season 3 episode, "[[List of The Transformers episodes#Season 3 (1986–87)|Starscream's Ghost]]", Thundercracker appears to have a grave—or at least a commemorative marker—in the Decepticon crypt.
Thundercracker made a cameo in the pilot of the ''[[Transformers: Animated]]'' television series on a historical video being viewed by Optimus Prime. This historical video was stock footage from the original animated series.
===Books===
Thundercracker appeared in the 1984 sticker and story book ''[[Return to Cybertron]]'' written by [[Suzanne Weyn]] and published by [[Marvel Books]].<ref>http://www.physics.ohio-state.edu/~sstoneb/tf/books/sticker/return/return.html</ref>
Thundercracker appeared in the 1984 sticker and story book ''[[The Revenge of the Decepticons]]'' written by [[Suzanne Weyn]] and published by [[Marvel Books]].<ref>http://www.physics.ohio-state.edu/~sstoneb/tf/books/sticker/revenge/revenge.html</ref>
Thundercracker was featured in the 1985 [[Find Your Fate]] Junior book called ''[[Battle Drive]]'' by [[Barbara Siegel]] and [[Scott Siegel]].<ref>http://www.gamebooks.org/fyf_tran.htm</ref>
===Dreamwave Productions===
Thundercracker could always fly, even before joining the Decepticons. He was recruited as a Decepticon under the leadership of [[Megatron]] in his war against the Autobots on the planet Cybertron. Thundercracker became a member of the elite Seekers under Aerospace Commander Starscream. He often worked with fellow Seeker Skywarp.
Skywarp and Thundercracker launched an attack against the city of Altihex, where they killed the Autobot named Overhaul and routed [[Grimlock]] and his group of Autobots. Later, Starscream, Skywarp, and Thundercracker attacked the city of Protihex under the orders of Megatron, but this time Grimlock launched a successful counterattack. If not for Skywarp's ability to teleport to safety, the Decepticons may have not escaped alive. After Megatron's disappearance, Thundercracker remained loyal to the Decepticons.
Because he was part of Megatron's loyal inner circle, Thundercracker was chosen as a member of the crew of the ''[[Nemesis (Transformers)|Nemesis]]'' when Megatron launched it to attack the ''[[Ark (Transformers)|Ark]]'', an Autobot ship. Both ships fought, and after the Decepticons boarded the ''Ark'', it crashed on the planet Earth. All on board were placed in emergency stasis lock for millions of years.
In the Earth year 1984, a volcanic explosion awakened the ''Ark''. The ''Ark''{{'}}s computer, Teletran One, reformatted all on board to be able to assume the forms of Earth machines. Thundercracker, like Starscream and Skywarp, was given the form of an F-15 fighter jet. Eventually the combined forces of the Autobots on Earth, and their human allies were able to capture the Decepticons. A ship called the Ark II was built to take the Cybertonians back to Cybertron, along with some human companions, but the ship exploded shortly after takeoff. The human allies were killed, but the Cybertonians were lost in the ocean, again in stasis lock.
After being awoken again Thundercracker and the other Decepticons on Earth returned to Cybertron with [[Shockwave (Transformers)|Shockwave]], but he later returned to Earth under the command of Starscream. He was captured along with [[Soundwave (Transformers)|Soundwave]] and Skywarp by the Autobots and locked in cells on board the ''Ark''. They escaped when the ''Ark'' was attacked by [[Combaticons|Bruticus]] (Transformers: Generation One III #1).
===Devil's Due Publishing===
In this re-imagining of the ''Transformers: Generation One'' story, the Autobot ship ''Ark'' was discovered by the terrorist Cobra organization. All the Transformers inside were formatted into Cobra vehicles and were to be remotely controlled by the Televipers, Cobra soldiers proficient in communication systems. Thundercraker, who in this continuity, transformed into a Cobra Rattler, was going to be piloted by [[Major Bludd]] during an Autobot invasion. Thundercracker had ideas of his own. Changing into robot mode, Bludd is crushed to death inside his cockpit. Thundercracker made no further appearances.
===IDW Publishing===
After Dreamwave's closure, the rights to the Transformers comics were awarded to [[IDW Publishing]]. The rebooted Generation One continuity borrowed from many previous sources, included the animated series, as well as the Marvel and Dreamwave comic books, but also featured many new and unexplored ideas and origins. Chronologically, Thundercracker made his first appearance in ''[[The Transformers: Megatron Origin]]'', joining the criminal gladiator, [[Megatron]]. He, along with his fellow [[Seekers (Transformers)|Seekers]], played a role in Megatron's plan to cause a rash of terror throughout Cybertron. Thundercracker soon became a member of the Decepticons. Much later, chronologically, in ''[[The Transformers: Infiltration]]'', Starscream is in command of a small group of Decepticons on Earth consisting of [[Skywarp]], Thundercracker, [[Astrotrain]], [[Blitzwing]], and the [[Battlechargers]] [[Runabout (Transformers)|Runabout]] and [[Runamuck (Transformers)|Runamuck]]. Starscream had discovered an Energon ore on Earth that was the Transformer equivalent of [[steroids]], making him bold enough to advance their infiltration phase ahead of schedule. However, humans somehow obtained evidence of the Transformers' existence, derailing Starscream's plans. Thundercracker has so far been seen chasing [[Ratchet (Transformers)|Ratchet]] to kill several humans who discovered the Decepticons' presence on Earth. When Megatron finally arrived at the Decepticons' base on Earth to destroy Starscream, Thundercracker was one of the four Decepticons (along with Runabout, Runamuck, and Astrotrain) who stood between Megatron and Starscream—and who promptly surrendered to him without a fight.
Thundercracker reappeared in ''[[The Transformers: Escalation]]'', warned by Megatron that no further treachery would be tolerated. Thundercracker then accompanied a repaired Skywarp on a bombing mission to stir up trouble between the humans. Later, he returned to Brasnya with Skywarp after his wingmate had been damaged by Autobots, damaging [[Hot Rod (Transformers)|Hot Rod]] severely. However, they were forced to flee when Megatron called for pickup after his Ore-13 was expended. His alternate mode here is that of an [[F-22 Raptor]], the successor to his original Generation One [[F-15 Eagle]] alternate jet mode.
===The Transformers: All Hail Megatron===
The 16-part series follows on from ''Escalation''. In the latter half of this series the Seekers' alternate mode once again becomes an F-15 Eagle, and their robot modes resemble their counterparts in the ''Transformers Masterpiece'' toy series by Takara.
In the last edition of this series Thundercracker is seen betraying the Decepticons. He saves the North American Eastern Seaboard from a nuclear attack by flying the bomb into space and destroying it. The Autobots are seen rejoicing at Thundercracker's act. Thundercracker did not believe that there was any honor in allowing the humans to die for the sake of it. He believed that a Decepticon was forged by combat, not slaughter. Upon discovery of what he had done, Skywarp shot Thundercracker in the face at point blank range.
Eventually Thundercracker was found by other Decepticons left behind and was rebuilt. None of those left behind were aware of Thundercracker's apparent betrayal, and looked to him to lead them. However, Thundercracker sought solitude instead. For a time he sat alone and watched television, learning about humanity and life on Earth. In time, he came to respect the beauty of life and human culture. While the Autobots went on to seek out other Cybertronians on Earth together with the United States Government, Thundercracker was recruited by Autobot leader Bumblebee to assist in bringing in the Combaticons (allied with [[North Korea]] and [[List of The Transformers (TV series) characters|Predacons]] (allied with China).
===The Transformers: Evolutions: Hearts of Steel===
Thundercracker and the other Seekers also appeared in the mini-series ''[[The Transformers: Evolutions]]: Hearts of Steel''. In this [[Parallel universe (fiction)|alternate reality]] tale, Thundercracker served as Starscream's right-hand 'bot. He was presumably destroyed when [[Bumblebee (Transformers)|Bumblebee]] and [[John Henry (Transformers)|John Henry]] managed to send the entire Decepticon rail convoy into a chasm. Like his fellow Seekers, Thundercracker originally had a beast alternate mode and was later reformatted to an 18th Century flying machine.<ref>[http://idwpublishing.com/titles/transformers/hos.shtml]</ref>
===Fun Publications===
Thundercracker is rebuilt on Earth by Megatron to serve as one of his troops. In the ''[[Transformers: Timelines]]'' story "[[Games of Deception]]" Thundercracker appears among Megatron's troops.
Thundercracker appears among Megatron's troops in the story "At Fight's End" by [[Fun Publications]].
Thundercracker also makes an unusual cameo in "Wreckers: Finale Part II". In the story the [[Quintessons]] invade the recently reformatted technorganic Cybertron. Several mechs claiming to be former Decepticons whose sparks were liberated when Optimus Primal reformatted Cybertron live in one of the few technological cites on the planet. These mechs defend the city from the Quintesson Overseer Rexian and his troops. Several of these mechs claim to formerly be the Decepticon warrior Thundercracker, now in a new body. In order to settle their dispute as to which is the real Thundercracker they decide that the one of them that destroys the most Sharkticons can claim the name Thundercracker, and the runner-up can be Dirge.
Thundercracker was among Megatron's troops when Megatron attacked Iacon with his new weapon, Devastator.<ref>{{Cite journal | author= Pete Sinclair & Jesse Wittenrich | title = Battle Lines Part 5 | journal = Transformers Collectors Club Magazine| volume = 1 | issue = 41 | page= 3 |date = October–November 2011|url=}}</ref>
===Other Media===
Thundercracker appeared in the ''[[Robot Chicken]]'' episode "Junk in the Trunk". He was seen with the other [[Decepticon]]s using a dam to stock-pile energon cubes until the [[Autobot]]s attacked.
===Games===
Thundercracker is one of the example character sheets given in the 2022 [[Transformers Roleplaying Game]].<REF>https://anyflip.com/ihnie/xfzu/basic</REF>
===Toys===
[[File:Seekerpatent.png|right|thumb|Illustration of the patent for the toy that became Starscream and his many repaints]]
* '''''Generation 1'' Jet Thundercracker''' (1984)
:The original Thundercracker toy was originally part of the Japanese [[Diaclone]] toyline, and was imported to become part of the ''Transformers'' toyline by [[Hasbro]] in 1984.<ref>[http://www.tfu.info/1984/Decepticon/Thundercracker/thundercracker.htm Thundercracker (1984) - Decepticon Warrior - www.tfu.info<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> In jet mode, the toy is 21cm long. In what is considered to be a major drawback to the toy, the majority of its parts have to be removed for transformation, and it is rare to find a totally complete one, since no single mode can hold all the parts.<ref>boy toys, Lancaster New Era; August 10, 2007; by Laura Knowles</ref>
* '''''Generation 1'' Action Master Thundercracker''' (1991)
:A repaint of Action Master Starscream with new accessories, this toy was only released in Europe. The color scheme does not resemble the original. Thundercracker comes with a jet which he can ride or wear as armor when it is transformed. This version of Thundercracker does not appear in any official Transformers fiction. His bio was much the same as the original toy bio, portraying him as a vicious flyer who enjoys taking his enemies apart by causing them to crash - either by shooting them down, or by nosediving and pulling up at the last second, letting his foes slam into the ground.<ref>[http://www.cobraislandtoys.com/tf/1991/thundercracker-am.html Cobra Island Toys - Transformer Archive<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
* '''''Machine Wars'' Thundercracker''' (1997)
:A basic sized flip changer. Sharing the same mold as fellow Decepticon Skywarp, Thundercracker was a "flip-changer" jet where if the toy's nosecone was pressed down, the toy would automatically transform to robot mode. It is difficult to determine where the Machine Wars characters are placed within the overall Transformers storyline as there was no fictional material other than their tech specs. Machine Wars characters are usually considered future or alternate reality versions of the main G1/G2 characters which was never expanded upon.<ref>[http://www.cobraislandtoys.com/tf/1997/thundercrackermw.html Cobra Island Toys - Transformer Archive<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
:His tech spec was similar to his original G1 bio in that Thundercracker believed in the Decepticon cause, still possessed of a fierce independent streak. Believing himself superior to anything that cannot fly Thundercracker uses terror-causing tactics and his traditional sonic boom attack to destroy his enemies.
* '''''Smallest Transformers'' Thundercracker''' (2004)
:This blue redeco of ''Smallest Transformers'' Starscream was only released as a chase item (one in a case of 48) in the line's final wave. Despite the small size (roughly 2 inches in robot height), the toy is virtually faithful to the original G1 toy's design and transformation.:<ref>[http://www.tfw2005.com/resources/takara-wst-destrons-358/thundercracker-2567/ TFW2005.com - WST Thundercracker]</ref> This toy was also released in high numbers by third party toy makes in a variety of variants, such as metallic, clear and glow-in-the-dark.
* '''''Robot Masters'' Thundercracker''' (2005)
:Thundercracker is a repaint of Robot Masters Starscream and was released in a package with Robot Masters Skywarp. Apart from his new chest missiles, he is the exact same character as his original appearance, only with a red stripe in his abdomen and more black in jet mode. Thundercracker did not appear in any Robot Masters fiction.
* '''''Titanium'' 6&nbsp;inch War Within Thundercracker''' (2006)
:A new 6" Thundercracker toy based on his 'The War Within' design. A day later the pictures were taken down at the request of Hasbro. This version of Thundercracker seems to be based on his appearance in the Dreamwave War Within comics series.<ref>[http://www.hasbro.com/default.cfm?page=ps_results&product_id=18142 TRANSFORMERS TITANIUM SERIES Die-Cast THUNDERCRACKER Figure- Product Detail<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
:This toy was later repainted as a War Within Starscream.
* '''''Titanium'' 3&nbsp;inch Thundercracker''' (2006)
:A second Titanium Thundercracker, a 3 inch one based on his Generation 1 form was released. This one is a repaint of the 3 inch Starscream.
* '''''Timelines'' Deluxe Thundercracker''' (2007)
:A [[BotCon]] 2007 exclusive Thundercracker figure was announced and released at the end of June 2007 along with four other figures (including two additional Seekers, Dirge and Thrust). Thundercracker is a straight redeco of Classics Starscream and Skywarp. Thundercracker is in his G1 cartoon colors, which is a slightly lighter blue than the G1 Thundercracker toy.
* '''''Henkei! Henkei!'' Deluxe Thundercracker''' (2008)
:A blue redeco of ''Classics'' Deluxe Starscream by [[Takara Tomy]] in Japan, sold as a Toy Hobby Market and Ganbo Store exclusive. The packaging used a black and white picture of the Starscream figure in front and reused ''Henkei'' Starscream's card for the back. The paint scheme is close to the original G1 toy, but differs from the ''Timelines'' version.<ref>[http://www.tfw2005.com/resources/henkei-destrons-347/thundercracker-2501/ TFW2005.com - Henkei Thundercracker]</ref>
* '''''Masterpiece'' MP-07 Thundercracker''' (2008)
:A repaint of Masterpiece Starscream, Masterpiece Thundercracker was released at the end of 2008. Number MP-07 in the Masterpiece series, it is based on his G1-animation deco, albeit designed to look a lot more realistic. A common problem on most, if not all, Masterpiece Thundercracker is that in production the two chest thrusters were switched around. This mistake has no effects on transformation, however.
* '''''Generations'' Deluxe Thundercracker''' (2011)
:A recoloration of the ''Classics'' Starscream, very similar to the Timelines Thundercracker sold at Botcon 2007.<ref>http://mastercollector.com/articles/reviews/tcrackr-review.html</ref>
* '''''Alternity'' Mitsuoka Orochi featuring Thundercracker''' (2010)
:A redeco of the ''Alternity'' [[Mitsuoka Orochi]], which is also used for Banzai-Tron, Starscream, and Skywarp.
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The Wal-Mart-exclusive Mini-Con pack would explain how Thundercracker got his Mini-Con partner Downshift, snatching him from under the Autobot's noses in one of his trademark fear causing missions. What he did not realize was that Downshift was as dedicated to creating chaos as him, and the two formed an alliance to terrorize the Autobots on Earth.
The Wal-Mart-exclusive Mini-Con pack would explain how Thundercracker got his Mini-Con partner Downshift, snatching him from under the Autobot's noses in one of his trademark fear causing missions. What he did not realize was that Downshift was as dedicated to creating chaos as him, and the two formed an alliance to terrorize the Autobots on Earth.
{{-}}
{{-}}
==Unicron Trilogy==
{{Infobox character|
name =Thundercracker
|image =
|caption =
|affiliation =Autobot/Decepticon
|subgroup =[[Seekers (Transformers)|Seekers]], Deluxe Vehicles
|function =Airman
|partner = Zapmaster, Downshift
|motto ="''Taste the cruel bite of my vicious weaponry.''" (Armada)<br> "''You see my strength?''" (Galaxy Force)
|alternatemodes =Cybertronian Jet fighter, [[Sukhoi Su-37]]
|series =''[[Transformers: Armada]]''<br>''[[Transformers: Cybertron]]''<br>''[[Transformers: Universe]]''
|engvoice =[[Mark Oliver]]
|japanvoice =[[Kazunari Tanaka]]
}}
Thundercracker, only mentioned off-screen in ''[[Transformers: Armada]]'', finally made his appearance on screen in ''[[Transformers: Cybertron]]''. Originally released alone, Thundercracker was later packaged with a Mini-Con partner as a [[Wal-Mart]]-exclusive but is unable to powerlinx with the Mini-Con. Although ''Armada'' Thundercracker did appear in the Dreamwave comics, he was portrayed very differently from the Cybertron character.
As a character, Thundercracker is a Deception highly distinguished for his love of battle. He speaks with a distinctive southern "drawl" accent. This excessive blood-lust affects the entire Decepticon group. What he lacks in skills, Megatron recognizes Thundercracker's talent for encouraging the troop's fighting spirit. He always has his sights on target in either robot or jet mode. Unfortunately, he cannot concentrate on a target, and accuracy is not his style. He also comes up with special attacks that prove ineffective against his foes, most particularly Jetfire in a battle for sky supremacy, but when reinforcements arrive, he is usually the first to be defeated.
Thundercracker's tech specs by both Hasbro and Takara revealed more about him. The Takara bio noted that he was excessively eager to go into battle, in turn inspiring the Decepticons who fought with him—which is why Megatron keeps him around. His Hasbro bio is indicates that, like the original G1 Thundercracker, his main power is his ability to create deafening sonic booms in combat. Rather oddly, the unlockable content on Hasbro's website indicates he is also somewhat of a practical joker. The non-flying Decepticons often ride on him.
The Wal-Mart-exclusive Mini-Con pack would explain how Thundercracker got his Mini-Con partner Downshift, snatching him from under the Autobot's noses in one of his trademark fear causing missions. What he did not realize was that Downshift was as dedicated to creating chaos as him, and the two formed an alliance to terrorize the Autobots on Earth.
In 2006, a Target store exclusive 2-pack called the "Ground to Air Blast Pack" included Cybertron [[Crosswise]] and Thundercracker. The toys were identical to their original ones, and the front included a brief mention of how the Autobot Bounty Hunter was hunting the Decepticon criminal Thundercracker. His tech spec indicates that his desire to blast Autobots is not out of any sort of sadism—it simply keeps him out of Megatron's way when the Decepticon leader is looking for someone to take his frustration out on.
===Animated series===
===Armada===
In ''[[Transformers: Armada]]'', Thundercracker's colors were used in the television show as [[Starscream (Unicron Trilogy)|Starscream]]'s Super Mode colors, instead of as a separate character as originally intended. When Starscream gets the upgrade he quotes: "I look like Thundercracker."
===Cybertron===
In ''[[Transformers: Cybertron]]'', Thundercracker originally appeared as one of the Decepticons under Megatron, Thundercracker was paired with Starscream to search for the [[Omega Lock]] on Earth, using his Earthen alternate mode to great advantage.<ref>{{Cite journal | author = | title = Transformers - Galaxy Force Secret Special DVD!| journal = TV Magazine| volume = | issue = | pages= |date = February 2006 |url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KvsjngLBR54}}</ref> He scanned an aircraft and transforms into the [[Su-37]] and attacked [[Landmine (Transformers)|Landmine]]. He had a rivalry with the Autobot [[Jetfire]] over who was the superior flyer. However, he was unaware that his wingmate harbored ambitions of his own. When Starscream gave Megatron a Planet Map to search for the remaining [[Cyber Planet Key]]s, the map turned out to be a fake and Thundercracker, along with Megatron, [[Ransack]] and [[Mudflap (Transformers)|Mudflap]] were trapped in a steel globe until they were freed by [[Scourge (Transformers)|Scourge]].
In episode 31, "United", Scourge, Mudflap, Crumplezone, Ransack and Thundercracker followed Megatron on the Space Bridge to Cybertron. They were joined by Thunderblast, who claimed she'd rather work form Megatron than Starscream.
Subsequently, Thundercracker was present for many more battles against both the Autobots and Starscream's ancient Decepticons. On one occasion, when [[Galvatron#Unicron Trilogy|Galvatron]] (a recreated Megatron) needed the Decepticons to distract the Autobots while he used the power of the Cyber Planet Keys to control the Grand Black Hole, he used the power of the keys to turn Dark [[Crumplezone]], Ransack, [[Thunderblast]] and Thundercracker into giants, rivaling the size of the Giant Planet Transformers. Thundercracker even took on [[Optimus Prime (Unicron Trilogy)|Optimus Prime]] himself, but was jumped by [[Hot Shot (Transformers)|Hot Shot]] and Jetfire, distracting him long enough for Prime to pursue Galvatron. After the fight, the Decepticons returned to normal size.
After Galvatron's defeat and the closing of the black hole, his minions realized that Galvatron had never had any intentions of helping his minions escape the Black Hole disaster in the first place. Thundercracker and the remaining Decepticons abandoned their allegiance to Galvatron and considered themselves free.
When the Autobots attempted to use a gigantic rocket to move the [[Jungle Planet]] back into its orbit, Galvatron attacked and damaged the rocket. The Jungle Planet threatened to crash into Cybertron. Much to the Autobots' surprise, the four Decepticons helped Scourge and the Autobots to move the rocket boosters back into place.
After Galvatron's death, Thundercracker, in an attempt to continue being active, allied himself with the Autobots by taking part in construction work on Earth. He wanted to be an Autobot and never lose (even though he did not know how to make the Autobot symbol appear on his body he just put on a badly drawn one). He was forced back to the Decepticon ranks by Thunderblast, Dark Crumplezone and Ransack, who self-declared themselves as the new Decepticon army. Predictably, the hapless group did not get far: the credits montage that closed the series showed they had crashed on what appeared to be [[Mars]].
===Dreamwave Productions===
Thundercracker's only fictional appearance was in a flashback scene in the ''Transformers: Energon'' comic #30 and #31, as one of the Decepticons being led into battle by [[Scorponok]].
While not much was known about Thundercracker, the [[Dreamwave Productions]]' ''More Than Meets the Eye'' biography series filled in some of the gaps. It reveals that Thundercracker was one of [[Megatron (Unicron Trilogy)|Megatron]]'s elite aerial troops, and was responsible for training [[Starscream (Unicron Trilogy)|Starscream]] and [[Skywarp]]. Eventually he grew disenchanted with Megatron and disappeared. Resurfacing shortly before the battles on Earth, and now with a Mini-Con partner, he seemed to become a [[mercenary]].
Like Starscream, Thundercracker can use one of his wings as an Energon blade and is a lethal martial fighter. However, in seeming reference to his original Marvel bio, his only weakness is his self-doubt.
===Toys===
* '''''Armada'' Thundercracker'''
:A repaint of ''Armada'' Starscream. Mini-Con Zapmaster is a repaint of Swindle.<ref>[http://www.cobraislandtoys.com/tf/2003/thundercracker-armada.html Cobra Island Toys - Transformer Archive<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>Transformer Armada, Herald News, The; April 15, 2004</ref>
* '''''Cybertron'' Deluxe Thundercracker''' (2005)
:The deluxe sized toy of Thundercracker was sold by itself in 2005, as well as packaged with the Mini-Con [[Transformers|Downshift]] and a Tiny-Tin as a promotion at [[Wal-Mart]] stores, then again packaged with the Autobot [[Crosswise]] as a [[Target Corporation|Target]] exclusive. The original deluxe sized Thundercracker was recolored into Cybertron [[Skywarp]].<ref>[http://www.hasbro.com/default.cfm?page=ps_results&product_id=16544 TRANSFORMERS CYBERTRON Deluxe Class: THUNDERCRACKER Figure- Product Detail<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
:A value 2-pack repackaging ''Cybertron'' Excellion and Thundercracker in ''Transformers: Universe'' packaging was first seen online in September 2007, called "Opposites Attack".
:Cybertron Deluxe Thundercracker is 18 centimeters long, but a real Su-37 Terminator is 2218 centimeters long. This gives us a scale of 1/123. Since his robot mode stands 13.5 centimeters tall, this means Cybertron Thundercracker should stand 54 feet tall. He is not depicted as being this big in the animated series, standing as big as most Deluxe sized toys, a bit over 20 feet tall.
* '''''Cybertron'' Legends Thundercracker'''
:Besides his original release as a Deluxe-sized figure, a Micro-class Thundercracker was released in wave 4 of the ''Legends of Cybertron'' line. This figure improved on some of the flaws of the Deluxe sized figure, giving Thundercracker a full sized left arm and larger feet that he can better balance on.
:This toy was later repainted as Micro-class [[Jetfire]]. A double sized knockoff of this toy was made in China and packaged in a box the Deluxe sized Excellion toy.<!--<ref>[http://wilson-ng.blogspot.com/2007/05/transformers-cybertron-legends_22.html Wilson's Collections: Transformers Cybertron Legends Thundercracker<!-- Bot generated title ]</ref>-->


==2007 Transformers==
==2007 Transformers==
Thundercracker lives on fear. Special materials in his vehicle body allow him to emit controlled sonic detonations that can be heard 200 miles away. Cruising along at Mach 6, he wants his enemies to hear him before they see him. He wants them to know he's coming, and cower in fear at their impending doom.<REF>ttp://www.tfw2005.com/resources/movie-decepticons-181/thundercracker-1258/</REF>
{{Infobox character|
name =Thundercracker
|image =Raptor F-22 27th.jpg
|caption =The F-22 Raptor Thundercracker is based on
|affiliation =Decepticon
|subgroup =Legends, Seekers, Voyagers, Cybertron Defense Force
|rank =5
|partner = Starscream, Skywarp, Spinister
|function = Warrior, Aerial Assault, Aerial Espionage
|motto =
|alternatemodes =Cybertronian jet, [[Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor]]
|series =''[[Transformers (film)|Transformers]]''<br>''[[Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen]]''<br>''[[Transformers: Dark of the Moon]]''
|voiceby =[[Seth Bleiler]]
}}
Thundercracker lives on fear. Special materials in his vehicle body allow him to emit controlled sonic detonations that can be heard 200 miles away. Cruising along at Mach 6, he wants his enemies to hear him before they see him. He wants them to know he's coming, and cower in fear at their impending doom.<ref>[http://www.tfw2005.com/resources/movie-decepticons-181/thundercracker-1258/ TFW2005.com - Thundercracker]</ref>


Thundercracker's design is also the basis for a series of Decepticon drones.
Thundercracker's design is also the basis for a series of Decepticon drones.
===IDW Publishing===
In ''[[Transformers: Defiance]]'' the planet Cybertron is invaded by aliens from the Eshems Nebula and Thundercracker is among the defenders in the city of Metrotitan, near the temple at Simfur. In issue #2 he sides with Megatron in his decision to counter-attack Cybertron's invaders and is among the fleet that attacks their ships. In issue #3 Thundercracker iss among the troops under the command of Starscream ordered by Megatron to bring in Optimus and kill his companions.
Thundercracker also appears in ''[[Reign of Starscream]]'' comic book series. He is a blue colored Decepticon looking a great deal like Starscream's Cybertronian form. He was left aboard the Nemesis on Mars when the Decepticons attacked Earth in the 2007 movie. Starscream left Earth after and returned to Mars to recreate the Allspark. Thundercacker is loyal to Starscream by helping him recover after his journey to Mars. He addresses Starscream as Lord Starscream, or Commander Starscream. Starscream mentions that Thundercracker is a Seeker, just like himself. Thundercracker seems smart by asking Starscream about Earth, and predicts their vehicles are like their own on Cybertron. In issue #5 Starscream sacrificed the sparks of Crankcase, Elita One, Grindcore, Signal Flare, and Warpath to bring his new Allspark Cube online. Although the cube failed to function Starscream did not have time to find out why as Dreadwing made his bid to overthrow the Decepticons using his army of drones. While Ramjet and Divebomb sided with Dreadwing, Thundercracker remained loyal to his leader along with Stockade. After Starscream vanished through the space bridge, Thundercracker departed Cybertron in hopes of finding him.
In ''Tales of the Fallen'' #6 [[Arcee]] is taken by Thundercracker and given to the Decepticon medic [[Flatline (Transformers)|Flatline]], who experiments on her. Upon waking up she discovers [[Skids (Transformers)|Skids]] and [[Mudflap (Transformers)|Mudflap]] are also captives of the Decepticons.<ref>http://chrismowry.blogspot.com/2010/01/arcee-5-pages.html</ref>
Note: Thundercracker's appearance in the IDW Publishing comics varies from the toy quite a bit because he never assumes an Earth vehicle alternate mode, instead staying in Cybertronian form. His robot mode more closely resembles the toy for Protoform Starscream in Thundercracker's colors, while his vehicle mode more closely resembles the vehicle mode of Megatron's Cybertronian jet.
===Titan Magazines===
Thundercracker style drones were seen attacking a [[NATO]] fleet in ''Twilight's Last Gleaming'' part 2.
===Video games===
Thundercracker also has a small role in the ''Transformers: The Game'' video game, most of all on the [[PlayStation Portable|PSP]] version, in which one can play as the character in multi-player mode. He speaks a few lines.
Thundercracker is a minion of [[Shockwave (Transformers)|Shockwave]], and spends most of his time transporting the Decepticon from place to place. He also meets [[Blackout (Transformers)|Blackout]] and Shockwave after the Decepticons attack the base in [[Qatar]]. Later, he assists Shockwave and [[Dreadwing]] to find frozen Decpticon leader [[Megatron]] in the Arctic Circle, but they only find information on a launch of a satellite. The Autobots attempt to destroy the base, but Thundercracker and Shockwave escape, leaving Dreadwing dead. He then flies Shockwave to the launch site, and places the signal there awhile Shockwave distracts security. He then rescues Shockwave. After that, Thundercracker alone attempts to stop the Autobots from approaching [[Hoover Dam]], the location of Megatron and the [[AllSpark]], but is killed by Autobot [[List of The Transformers (TV series) characters|Ironhide]]. Shockwave does not discover this, but finds that the Autobots have transmitted a virus to the signal, foiling their plot.
Note: In the game, Thundercracker's appearance is based on Dreadwing with a new head, not Starscream.
===Toys===
All toys of this character are officially licensed from [[Lockheed Martin]].
* '''''Transformers'' Voyager Thundercracker''' (2007)
:A light-blue recolor of Voyager Class Starscream, featuring an alternate head sculpt.<ref>[http://www.toysgamesgifts.co.uk/transformers-movie-voyager-thundercracker-i1398.html Transformers Movie Voyager - Thundercracker<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> In vehicle mode, the toy is 21 centimeters long. Since a real F-22 is 1890 centimeters long, this toy has a scale of about 1/90 scale and Thundercracker would stand about 55 feet (17 m) tall.
* '''''Transformers'' 3D Battle Card Game Movie Thundercracker''' (2007)
:Thundercracker is among the characters which appeared in the 1st wave of [[Transformers 3D Battle Card Game]] by [[Wizards of the Coast]]. He is a redeco of movie Starscream.
* '''''Revenge of the Fallen'' Legends Thundercracker''' (2009)
:A redeco of Legends Starscream. This was available in a [[Kmart]] store exclusive 4 pack with his partner [[Spinister]].
* '''''Dark of the Moon'' Deluxe Thundercracker''' (2011)
:A blue redeco of Deluxe Starscream with silver and red stripes that pay homage to his G1 incarnation. Unlike Starscream, Thundercracker comes with two Mech Tech weapons: half of Starscream's sword and a blue redeco of [[Roadbuster#Transformers: Dark of the Moon|Roadbuster]]'s chainsaw blaster.<ref>[http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/transformers-movie-toys--products-30/dark-of-the-moon-thundercracker-revealed-171547/ TFW2005.com - ''Dark of the Moon'' Thundercracker Revealed]</ref>
{{-}}
{{-}}
==''Transformers Animated''==
{{Infobox character|
name =Thundercracker
|image =
|caption =
|affiliation =Decepticon
|subgroup =Activators, Starscream clones
|rank =
|partner = Starscream, Skywarp, Sunstorm, Ramjet, Slipstream, Megatron, Blitzwing, Lugnut
|function =[[Egomaniac]]
|motto =''"I am invincible! Anyone who defeats me is just lucky!"''
|alternatemodes =Futuristic harrier jet similar to [[Sukhoi Su-47 Berkut]]
|series =''[[Transformers Animated]]''
| engvoice = [[Tom Kenny]]
| japanvoice = [[Jin Yamanoi]]
}}
In ''[[Transformers Animated]]'', Thundercracker is a clone of [[Starscream]], and embodies the [[egomaniacal]] side of his personality.<ref>{{cite book |title=[[Transformers Animated: The Allspark Almanac]] |author=[[Jim Sorenson]] & [[Bill Forster (writer)|Bill Forster]]| publisher=Idea & Design Works Llc |date=August 15, 2009 |ISBN=978-1-60010-487-9 | page=84}}</ref>
===Animated series===
Using the [[Transformers|Allspark]] fragment embedded in his forehead, Starscream brought life to numerous clones, who took distinct aspects of his personality. Thundercracker received the egomaniac side of Starscream and thus is extremely prideful in his abilities and refuses to acknowledge that he has limits. He participated in the clones' assault on [[Megatron]]'s stronghold, but was caught up in [[Mixmaster (Transformers)|Mixmaster's]] cement along with Skywarp and [[Blurr]] and ended up being sent through the space bridge, to an unknown destination where Thundercracker managed to break Skywarp and Blurr out of their confinement, only to unsuccessfully attack the latter. Blurr managed to escape, humiliating Thundercracker by using him as a springboard to race his way across the galaxy. Thundercracker's ultimate fate is unknown, as the series ended without him appearing again. He, Skywarp, [[Swindle (Transformers)|Swindle]], and Team Chaar are the remaining Decepticons in space.
Thundercracker was never called by name in the run of the animated series.{{Citation needed|date=January 2011}}
===Toys===
* '''''Animated'' Activators Thundercracker''' (2008)
:A dark blue redeco of ''Animated'' Activators [[Starscream (Transformers)#Transformers Animated|Starscream]].<ref>[http://www.tfw2005.com/resources/animated-decepticons-191/thundercracker-1829/ TFW2005.com - ''Animated'' Thundercracker]</ref>
* '''''Animated'' Voyager Thundercracker''' (unreleased)
:A blue redeco of Voyager Class Starscream. Though pre-production units have been shown online, the figure has yet to be released on retail.{{Citation needed|date=January 2011}}
* '''''Animated'' TA-24 Activators Thundercracker (Takara Tomy)''' (2010)
:The 2010 Japan release version by [[Takara Tomy]] is virtually identical to the Hasbro version, with the exception of purple Decepticon emblems.<ref>[http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/animated-8/official-high-resolution-images-of-june-2010-japanese-transformers-animated-releases-169829/ TFW2005.com - Official High Resolution Images of June 2010 Japanese Transformers Animated Releases]</ref>
{{Clear}}


==2008 Shattered Glass==
==2008 Shattered Glass==
{{Infobox character|
name = Thundercracker
|image = USAF F-15D Top.jpg
|caption = The F-15 Jet Thundercracker is based on.
|affiliation = Decepticon
|subgroup = Convention exclusives, Deluxe vehicles, Mayhem Suppression Squad
|function = Vigilante Adventurer
|motto = "''Nothing to fear here. It'll all be okay.''"
|rank =7
|partner = Galvatron
|alternatemodes =[[F-15 Eagle|F-15]] jet fighter, Cybertronian spacecraft.
|series =''[[Transformers: Timelines]]''
|engvoice =
|japanvoice =
}}
A mirror-universe version of Thundercracker appeared in the Transformers: Timelines fiction. He is one of the heroic Decepticons. Thundercracker has the ability to completely deaden all sound in an area with his engines. He is painted in his Generation 1 Action Master toy colors.
A mirror-universe version of Thundercracker appeared in the Transformers: Timelines fiction. He is one of the heroic Decepticons. Thundercracker has the ability to completely deaden all sound in an area with his engines. He is painted in his Generation 1 Action Master toy colors.


Line 33: Line 301:


Thundercracker appears in the 2012 BotCon Invasion lithograph by Casey Coller and Josh Perez.<REF>http://tformers.com/transformers-botcon-2012-transformers-invasion-box/17534/news.html</REF>
Thundercracker appears in the 2012 BotCon Invasion lithograph by Casey Coller and Josh Perez.<REF>http://tformers.com/transformers-botcon-2012-transformers-invasion-box/17534/news.html</REF>
===Toys===
* '''''Hasbro Transformers Timelines'' Deluxe Shattered Glass Thundercracker''' (2011)
:A [[BotCon]] 2011 exclusive red/purple/green redeco of the Deluxe Starscream figure. Bundled with ''Timelines'' Voyager Galvatron.
{{-}}
{{-}}


Line 45: Line 317:
===Toys===
===Toys===
*'''''Hasbro Transformers Animated Activators'' Thundercracker''' (2008)
*'''''Hasbro Transformers Animated Activators'' Thundercracker''' (2008)
:A dark blue redeco of Animated Activators Starscream
:A dark blue redeco of Animated Activators Starscream.
{{-}}
 
==Aligned Continuity==
{{Infobox character|
name = Thundercracker
|image =
|caption =
|affiliation = Decepticon
|subgroup = [[Seekers (Transformers)|Seekers]]
|rank =
|function = Scientist, Aerial Assault, Warrior
|partner =
|motto =
|alternatemodes = Cybertronian jet
|series =
|engvoice = [[Graham McTavish]]
|japanvoice =
}}
 
===Books===
Thundercracker appears in the novel ''Transformers: Exodus''.<ref>{{cite book|isbn=978-0-345-52252-8 |title=Transformers: Exodus - The Official History of the War for Cybertron |publisher=Del Rey Books |year=2010 |author=Alexander C. Irvine}}</ref>
 
===Games===
Thundercracker is a playable Decepticon character in the 2010 video game ''[[Transformers: War for Cybertron]]''. In the Decepticon campaign, he is a part of the Decepticons' flying squad known as the "Seekers" - Alongside [[Starscream#Transformers: Prime|Starscream]] and [[Skywarp#Transformers: Prime|Skywarp]]. Thundercracker despises those that cannot take flight and views himself as being superior to those that cannot. He sometimes questions the Decepticon cause, but a fear of [[Megatron (Transformers)#Transformers: Prime|Megatron]]'s wrath quiets his discontent.
 
===Toys===
*'''''Arms Micron'' Deluxe Thundercracker'''
{{Clear}}
 
==''Transformers: Cyberverse''==
{{Infobox character
| name          = Thundercracker
| image          =
| caption        =
| affiliation    = Decepticon
| subgroup      = [[List of Decepticons#Decepticon Jets/Seekers|Seeker]]
| function      =
| alternatemodes =
| series        =
| engvoice      = Ben Bott
}}
{{-}}


==References==
==References==
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[[Category:Classicverse Transformers characters]]
[[Category:Classicverse Transformers characters]]
[[Category:Combiners (Transformers)]]
[[Category:Combiners (Transformers)]]
[[Category:Comics characters introduced in 1984]]
[[Category:Decepticons]]
[[Category:Decepticons]]
[[Category:Devil's Due Publishing characters]]
[[Category:Devil's Due Publishing characters]]
[[Category:Decepticons]]
[[Category:Decepticons]]
[[Category:Dreamwave Productions characters]]
[[Category:Dreamwave Productions characters]]
[[Category:Fictional aircraft]]
[[Category:Fictional characters introduced in 1984]]
[[Category:Fictional characters introduced in 1984]]
[[Category:Fictional characters introduced in 2007]]
[[Category:Fictional characters introduced in 2007]]
[[Category:Fictional clones]]
[[Category:Fictional fighter aircraft]]
[[Category:Fictional henchmen]]
[[Category:Fictional mercenaries]]
[[Category:Seekers (Transformers)]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass Decepticons]]
[[Category:Shattered Glass Decepticons]]
[[Category:Wings of Honor Transformers characters]]
[[Category:Wings of Honor Transformers characters]]
[[Category:Transformers: Robot Masters characters]]
[[Category:Transformers: Robot Masters characters]]
[[Category:Villains in animated television series]]
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