Image Comics reviews 2/21/24 – Cobra Commander #2, G.I. Joe #304

G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero #304

After a few issues setting the stage, issue #304 makes some big strides with this latest arc.

As Serpentor Khan plots his two-pronged attack against Springfield and the Joes, Cobra Commander braces for the strike and Duke sends out Dawn to gather intel.

Serpentor Khan & Dr. Mindbender’s alliance with Revanche dominated the last two issues so it was nice to see more characters get into the mix this issue. Especially old school favorites from the mid-80s that aren’t necessarily the most prominent cast members.

Hama is doing a solid effort in working in the newer additions to the Joe ranks organically. They’re not all in the spotlight until they become regulars. Hama is mixing them in as needed allowing readers to form fresh attachments and connects to the newbies.

While it’s still weird seeing Snake Eyes talking, Hama is easing longtime readers into the concept by having him speak as little as possible. It’d be very jarring if Snakes turned into a motormouth.

Artist Chris Mooneyham had plenty of action sequences to craft this issue. Dawn stalking Serpentor Khan’s Springfield recon team was a strong dramatic bit. The Tomahawk ambush scene had a big screen intensity to it.

Mooneyham designed an excellent hooded-visual without the hood itself. It wouldn’t be shocking if this were the look for the next G.I. Joe Classified Series Cobra Commander figure.

Colorist Francesco Segala (with flatterer Sabrina Del Grosso) provided clean color distinctions to indicate the changing locations. Letterer Pat Brousseau offers up easy to read dialogue with well-timed emphasis on some exchanges.

This was an encouraging issue as Hama has set the stage now and laying the final pieces down for what’s shaping up to be a busy and intricate war arc.

Rating: 9 out of 10

Photo Credit: Image Comics