Page "Matrix of Leadership" Paragraph 10

The Matrix's story subsequently branched off in two directions following this, as America and Japan took the story in their own unique directions.

In the US finale, " The Rebirth ", Optimus Prime used the shell of the Matrix as a substitute key to access Vector Sigma.

Conversely, in Japan-where the Matrix is treated simply as a reservoir of pure energy-the shell was left hidden on Earth to slowly recharge its depleted energy.

However, the emptying of the Matrix had disestablished Vector Sigma, leading the Autobots to search for its location before Optimus Prime sacrificed himself to restore the computer's balance.

The ghost of Alpha Trion re-energized the Matrix, but Optimus Prime merged with Vector Sigma to stabilize it, and Rodimus Prime was again left in charge of the Autobots.