Machinima constructs Transformers series

Online video site Machinima and toyco Hasbro has partnered to create an animated series based on the Transformers

The show is the first new original Transformers series since Transformers: Robots in Disguise (pictured) which Hasbro produced and sold to Cartoon Network earlier this year after previous home, The Hub, was rebranded as Discovery Family.

The new show will run on gaming culture-focused Machinima’s programming service, and will begin in the middle of the Combiner Wars, which is a popular recent story and toy line in the Transformers

It will include new characters and lore, and will take the action franchise in “a new direction” that includes “raging action and signature humour”.

“Our audiences are huge fans of the comics, movies, toys and video games, and for us to continue the legend with the Combiner Wars is a unique storytelling opportunity,” said Machinima’s chief creative officer, Daniel Tibbets.

Multi-channel network Machinima rebranded to a broader proposition last year in November following the appointment of ex-Ovation executive Chad Gutstein. At the same time, co-founder and CEO Allen DeBevoise stepped down, though he remains chairman.

Warner Bros. is one of Machinima’s key investors, having led a US$18 million founding round in March 2014.