Whirl is a practitioner of Metallikato who never plans out a strategy before first observing the situation thoroughly. He frequently clashes with his Decepticon rival Bludgeon, whom he doesn't consider a true martial arts master due to his use of dishonorable tactics. Each hopes to one day settle the question of which is the true master of the deadly martial art they practice.
A mutual respect based on observational skills and situational awareness is the basis for the bond between Whirl and his human partner, the infiltration specialist Major Sparkplug.