Deep-Cut Transformers’ Character "Astoria Carlton-Ritz" Makes Her Energon Universe Debut
Destro #1 – Written By Dan Watters; Art By Andrei Bressan, Adriano Lucas & Rus Wooton
The introduction of Astoria Carlton-Ritz into the world of Destro is a pretty big swing on the part of the creators. The original character from the cartoon was more interested in lavish parties than running her late father’s company. The Energon Universe version is re-imagined as a ruthless businesswoman, determined to succeed in a male-dominated industry. This version also seems attracted to conflict and drama, such as the arms bazaar scene in Destro #1 where she stirs the pot by calling out one arms merchant in front of Destro.
Astoria Carlton-Ritz Could Play A Prominent Role In The Energon Universe
Skybound Continues To Reinvent Multiple Franchises
The introduction of Astoria Carto-Ritz into the Energon Universe illustrates how nothing is out of the question in Skybound’s G.I. Joe/ Transformers shared universe. Her darker characterization in the new continuity also shows that the creators are free to reinterpret older franchise characters however they see fit, making them more interesting as a result. By incorporating obscure Transformers characters like Skuxxoid, Slizardo and now Astoria Carlton-Ritz, the Energon Universe creators are able to build this new G.i. Joe and Transformers shared universe in exciting and unexpected ways.
An Obscure Character From Transformers’ G1 Era Gets A New Lease On Life
Destro #1 – written by Dan Watters, with art by Andrei Bressansees – features the title character overthrowing the corrupt dictatorship of Darklonia with the help of his Energon-infused Cobra B.A.T.s. Destro proceeds to hold an arms bazaar in Darklonia, inviting arms dealers and companies from around the world.
One such arms merchant is Astoria Carlton-Ritz, the wealthy heiress of Hybrid Technologies. Only the most die-hard of Transformers fans will recognize that name, as the character’s only major appearance prior to this was the G1 cartoon episode “The Girl Who Loved Powerglide.”
Destro and Astoria’s Relationship Could Get Spicy
This characterization of Astoria is visualized stunningly in Destro #1's climactic scene, when Destro’s arms bazaar is attacked. Astoria becomes transfixed by the destruction, so much so that Destro has to rescue her from a falling bomb. Establishing her character as someone who likes to play with fire is an interesting twist, and makes Astoria fit well into this darker world. Their scenes together also seem to hint that romance might be brewing between Destro and Astoria. Given his traditional love-affair with the Baroness in previous G.i. Joe continuities, it would seem Destro is attracted to powerful women.
Destro #1 Is A Great Read for Transformers And G.I. Joe Fans
The inclusion of an obscure character like Astoria Carlton-Ritz into the Energon Universe is a bold move that has paid off. It's a great example of how the creators are using this shared continuity to reinvent and expand on existing franchises. Whether you're a long-time fan of Transformers or G.I. Joe, or just a casual comic book reader, Destro #1 is worth checking out. So get out there and grab a copy!
