Optimus returns for the new series, although his attitude has changed. He is now a more peaceful character, and is learning of the Maximals' purpose. They are to bring back the organic element to Cybertron. The boss monkey has the ability to reformat maximals, as demonstrated on Nightscream. When he does this he is very weak for quite some time. There have been rumors of making Optimus sort of a "wise old monkey" who the maximals, supposedly led by Cheetor, go to for advice. I hope not. Optimus is a much needed part of the Beast Machines series.
