The Transformers cartoon has one of the most consistent narratives in the franchise’s many iterations. Its story even remains intact during the Beast Wars series. Beast Wars follows a potential future following the G1 show where Autobots and Decepticons evolved into the Maximals and Predacons. When both factions leave Cybertron, they travel back in time to a prehistoric Earth. While this era is different from the original series, it shares many callbacks to what came before. One example of this involves a familial bond between a Maximal named Rattrap and the Autobot Arcee.
Rattrap is the Maximals’ resident reconnaissance soldier and is known to hide in the trenches, eating scraps to maintain his strength. This only added to his namesake, which was further bolstered by him taking the form of a rat following his arrival to Earth. Rattrap is also a technologically minded Maximal who uses his skills to make weapons. In fact, he can often be found carrying bombs and pistols to ensure his survival. However, due to his small stature, he is a survivor and isn’t inclined to risk his life if the odds are against him.
During the series, Rattrap makes a side comment stating, “What in the name of my great-aunt Arcee is going on here?” This officially confirms that, in some way, the two robots are related. However, Arcee is more of a warrior and fighter than Rattrap. She is also more kind-hearted toward her allies and has a close bond with the human, Daniel. That said, Arcee is a fearless and somewhat ruthless fighter like Rattrap, which may hint at why they’re related. In reality, the reason for them being related has a more heartfelt behind-the-scenes reason.
During the series, voice actress Susan Blu was voice director on Beast Wars. Before having this role, she was the voice that brought Arcee to life when she first appeared in The Transformers: The Movie; she also voiced the Transmutate in Beast Wars. The comment made by Rattrap was meant to be an inside joke between the creators. However, in doing so, the inside joke also brought two eras of fans together thanks to fan-favorite Autobot.
As it stands, Cybertronians can’t reproduce, meaning that it’s unclear if Rattrap and Arcee are biologically related. One possibility is that Rattrap’s creation involved a part of Arcee. However, he could also share some aspect of her spark, making them the closest they can be to blood relatives. While it seems confusing and unlikely, their shoot first, ask questions later approach appears to be more of a family trait than a coincidence.
At a glance, Rattrap seems nothing like Arcee. However, making them related actually works well for the narrative. Mainly, it helps build a stronger connection between storylines, making an even larger universe. As a result, fans that are over a decade apart can appreciate both generations of shows. While Arcee and Rattrap may not be fully related, the nod to Susan Blu creates a spiritual connection between both characters that is still felt today.
About The Author