Where to Start Reading the Energon Universe After NYCC 2026

Are Transformers, G.I. Joe, Void Rivals, and M.A.S.K. all part of the same comic universe? Yes—and that’s both the appeal and the source of confusion for new readers. The Energon Universe is Skybound and Hasbro’s interconnected comics setting, and New York Comic Con 2026 offered fresh reasons to explore it.

Start with the kind of story you actually like

You do not need to purchase every issue in every series before you can enjoy the setting. Pick the reading experience that appeals most to you, then branch outward once you recognize the shared characters and ideas.

For Transformers fans: Transformers

If Autobots, Decepticons, and their conflicts are the main attraction, begin with the current Transformers run. It offers a direct connection to familiar characters without requiring the reader to start elsewhere.

For military intrigue: G.I. Joe

Readers who prefer covert operations, competing loyalties, and human-scale conflict may find G.I. Joe the more natural entry. Follow the main title first, then explore connected stories as characters and references appear.

For discovering the universe gradually: Void Rivals

Void Rivals introduces its own science-fiction mystery while revealing connections to the wider setting. It’s a particularly good fit for readers who enjoy discovering how separate plots eventually intersect.

For another branch of the connected world: M.A.S.K.

The addition of M.A.S.K. gives the shared setting another perspective. At NYCC, its creators discussed connections involving Baron Karza and teased the appearance of G.I. Joe’s Battle Force 2000 in M.A.S.K. #8.

What’s coming after the convention?

According to coverage of Skybound’s October 10 panel, Transformers is building toward the Dinobots’ appearance in issue #42. Void Rivals #37 begins the “Pit of Destruction” arc in December, and the panel also previewed new developments in G.I. Joe. These are good examples of why it’s worth watching the actual issue-by-issue schedule, rather than relying on a general franchise announcement.

Should you read everything in chronological order?

Not necessarily. For most readers, publication order within a chosen series is easier than attempting to construct a perfect timeline across multiple books. If a crossover or major development interests you, ask your comic shop which additional issues are useful context. Collected editions can also be an approachable way to catch up, although availability varies.

Following the series without missing an issue

Shared universes reward consistency, but they can also make it easy to lose track of new installments. Keep a simple list of your regular titles and check new solicitations for connected stories. You don’t need to collect every variant cover to understand a storyline.

If you want help following Transformers, G.I. Joe, Void Rivals, M.A.S.K., or many other ongoing comics, explore Nexus comic subscriptions and pull lists. You can also read how comic pull lists work before committing to a series.