There's a lot more references to Prime, and certain characters return which makes this show feel more like a follow-up. Optimus Prime's characterization is just weird here though. He all of a sudden feels he has to be the one leading, just because he has before when it seemed he had no problem letting Bumblebee take the helm at the end of season 1. Sadly, the finale is underwhelming again. The idea of Decepticon Island is cool, but not much was done with it. They make it seem like the leaders of the Island Glowstrike, Saberhorn, and Scorponok are going to be important but they're all easily dispatched by Steeljaw. Still a good season regardless.