Transformers Heavy Metal: Everything We Know So Far

On June 14, 2021, we posted an article based around Bloomberg's report that Pokemon GO developer Niantic was actively developing an augemented reality game based on Hasbro's Transformers franchise. Not long after, Niantic's John Hanke confirmed the news on Twitter. Transformers: Heavy Metal is coming. Here's everything we know so far.

What is Transformers: Heavy Metal?

Transformers: Heavy Metal is an augmented reality game much like Niantic's other projects like Pokemon GO, Harry Potter: Wizards Unite and Ingress. They use real-world locations as a basis for their content, giving players the means to superimpose a video game in the real world around them.

It isn't clear exactly how Transformers: Heavy Metal will make use of the real-life locations, but players can expect to command and fight iconic Transformers robots and use AR technology to watch them duke it out in their neighborhood.

Early gameplay images show battles taking place against in-game backdrops, but augmented reality features will be available at launch.

The official website states that users will join the Guardian Network with email newsletters letting them know what popular Transformer Bumblebee is doing on Earth. Those on the mailing list will receive a "Cybertronian notification" when the game goes live.

Transformers: Heavy Metal Beta Date

In the Bloomberg report, it was suggested that most of the core Transformers: Heavy Metal content is complete and ready to play. With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing people to stay at home, however, necessary testing wasn't able to be completed.

With things starting to open up again, Niantic suggests regional testing will begin very soon. The way this usually works with mobile titles is that New Zealand will be the first to try out the game, with access then rolling out to more and more countries as time goes on.

How to Sign up For The Transformers: Heavy Metal Beta

With the official website now live and ready to go, you can sign up to the Transformers: Heavy Metal beta simply by registering your email.

If and when you are selected to take part, expect a Transformers: Heavy Metal APK download link to show up in your box.

When is the Transformers: Heavy Metal Release Date

With testing pretty much set to take place right now, Transformers: Heavy Metal is expected to release in the coming months. John Hanke stated that a soft launch will be "coming soon."

Will Transformers: Heavy Metal Be Free?

Niantic hasn't expressly said that Transformers: Heavy Metal will be free, but it almost certainly will be. Like its other AR games, expect a free game with optional microtransactions for extra items, cosmetics and premium events.