Drift (G1)


 * Drift is an Autobot from the Generation One continuity family.

Dorifuto (ドリフト) ha sugoi! Ahem. Drift, a Decepticon previously known as Deadlock, is a totally awesome ninja who kicks all kinds of ass because ninjas are awesome.

IDW comics
In the past, Drift was a Decepticon warrior known as Deadlock, known for having slaughtered many Autobots. At some point he was thought to have died but appears to have encountered an ancient and unaffiliated sect of Cybertronians. He claims to have recieved a second chance, changed his name to Drift, and now seeks to make that second chance count.

Spotlight


A mysterious cloaked figure arrives on an alien world looking for information on a "Decepticon" cruiser. The natives are weary at first, but disclose the vessel's location; upon handing over the data, a female alien realizes that the stranger is Cybertronian.

The mysterious stranger infiltrates the Decepticon cruiser and uncloaks, revealing himself to be Drift. Drift stealthily sneaks through the conduits of the vessel when he discovers a contigent of Decepticon warriors. Just as he is about to strike, he is interrupted by the explosive arrival of Kup and his Wreckers (Roadbuster, Springer, Twin Twist and Perceptor) who have come to free the Autobot prisoners. Drift offered to lead the Wreckers to their trapped comrades but they were prevented from escaping by the Decepticon commander Turmoil. A Decepticon commander who recognized and named Drift as Deadlock.

Drift and Kup were dropped into a lower deck by a blast, where Kup confronted Drift about his past and learned some of the circumstances that converted the Decepticon warrior. The pair set out to destroy the Decepticon cruiser but were again confronted by Turmoil. Drift engaged the much larger Decepticon, disabling him in two quick strikes, before risking his life to save that of the previously shot Perceptor. For that final act, Kup offered Drift the chance to join his team and help fight the Decepticons.

All Hail Megatron
Drift was hand-picked by Kup to be part of his team because he's so cool and awesome. He was the only one not surprised that Mirage was a hidden sentry. Given comments by both Autobots and Decepticons, it seems evident that Drift is a former Decepticon who changed sides, ticking another popular box on the fan character checklist. Drift was quick, talented, and sure. Capable of decapitating a swarm member before it could move one minute and racing onto an explosive ladden bridge to rescue a fallen comrade the next. He could even slip by Jazz on occasion. He could respect the choices of others, and the pain of betraying ones comrades. Being a traitor himself, twice over, he had an understanding of it and knew that there was more to the Decepticon's victory than the betrayl of a single bot.

Drift fought with the Autobots against the Swarm until their rescue by Omega Supreme and then fought the Decepticons in the battle at New York City. When Thundercracker offered to stop an atomic bomb for the Autobots it was Drift who tried to welcome him into the Autobot ranks, only to be rebuffed.

Trivia

 * IDW claims Drift is getting a toy, but thus far Hasbro has said nothing on the matter.
 * Let's face it. Drift is pretty much every 13-year old's 'totally badass ninja fancharacter... made official.
 * Chris Ryall has stated that he wants Drift to become their Wolverine. This is probably why they're shoving him down fan's throats so much.
 * Let's face it. This has "Poochie" written all over it.
 * Drift's body modifications and weaponry appear to be gifts from an ancient, long lost sect of Cybertronians. Very Anime.
 * As of All Hail Megatron 12, Drift has appeared in 9 comics and has NEVER drawn his long sword, though he will often carry it in the sheath.
 * Despite multiple covers and concept art, Drift has yet to appear in a comic with an Earth alt-mode.