#he also works far better in situations like the quintessons arc because that required him to be reckless and daring

[fierydare]

hot rod's changes in attitude is so interesting in the show, especially when it comes to how others perceive him. of course, he genuinely is an extroverted, optimistic mech but he also exaggerates so much parts of himself. in the first half of the show, he likely does this because he has no real desire to actually be a leader. but you can see subtle clues that deep down he really is a responsible and smart mech, especially when it comes to his friends and companions. it's just easier for others to know him as a reckless, brave punk who only risks getting himself into danger. but once the quintesson arc hits, he reveals a lot of his truer, more vulnerable colors—but he also starts to find his place as a leader. after they've successfully defeated the quintessons, you see him revert back to how he acted before, which i find to be interesting. again, he genuinely is just a happy, friendly bot. but the difference is that he is helping to lead cybertron now, and that comes with high expectations. I think by his logic, if he messes up, it's easier to blame him as a fool than an outright failure.