Battle Cat is a mighty feline beast that serves as the companion and steed of He-Man in the Masters of the Universe franchise. Whenever Prince Adam of Grayskull is required to become He-Man, he usually transforms his pet tiger Cringer into his trusted mount and rides him into battle against evil.
Overview[]
Cringer is the pet and companion of Prince Adam. He is a tiger with green fur adorned with yellow stripes. Unlike others of his species, Cringer is tame and not especially strong. However, in some incarnations, he is capable of speech. Although cowardly, he is a good friend to Adam and will do anything for him so long as there's no conflict involved.
When Adam transforms into He-Man, he will project a magical ray from his Sword of Power to transform Cringer into the mighty Battle Cat. Battle Cat is physically larger than Cringer and is adorned with an armoured saddle over his back and a helmet covering his head.
In contrast to Cringer's cowardly personality, Battle Cat is courageous and always ready for adventure. He retained his power of speech and would often express his desire for battle, though He-Man would prefer to resolve conflicts without violence.
Notable Incarnations[]
He-Man and the Masters of the Universe (Filmation)[]
Cringer
In the original Filmation series, both Cringer and Battle Cat had the power of speech. While Cringer was a coward and disliked being transformed into Battle Cat, he also understood why Battle Cat was needed and did not attempt to avoid being transformed.
Prince Adam first met Cringer in his youth during a nature hike through the Vine Jungle. He found the young tiger injured and was able to nurse him back to health. Adam's friend Teela noted the creature's cowardly nature, stating that he was "a real cringer", which ultimately became the tiger's name.
When transformed into Battle Cat, he would sometimes express relief from being shackled as his meek alter ego. As He-Man's steed and companion, he possessed a dry sense of humour as well as a deep trust for his friend that was unshakable.
He-Man and the Masters of the Universe (Mike Young Productions)[]
In the 2002 animated series, Cringer did not speak as either himself or as Battle Cat. He remained a loyal pet to Prince Adam, though he was cowardly and easily frightened by most things. He would usually try to run away in the face of danger and it would take considerable coerscion from Adam or Orko to get him to follow.
When transformed, Battle Cat was a ferocious beast that was always ready for combat. He wore a Corridite harness on his back with a saddle for He-Man to ride upon. He also had a sabretoothed mask covering his head and gauntlets on his forepaws.
Abilities[]
- Transformation - Cringer transforms into Battle Cat when struck by energy from He-Man's sword.
- Brute Strength - Battle Cat possesses enormous physical strength, enough to easily overcome most opponents.
- Enhanced Speed - Battle Cat possesses extraordinary speed and reflexes. He can run vast distances in little time and can leap great distances and heights.
- Heightened Senses - Battle Cat has heightened senses of sight and smell, making it easy for him to track any prey.
- Armour - Battle Cat's armour is made from near-indestructible Corridite, the same material that makes up He-Man's battle harness.
- Animal Communication - Battle Cat is able to communicate with non-sapient beasts.