Image Comics reviews 5/15/24 – Redcoat #2, G.I. Joe #306

G.I. Joe A Real American Hero #306

Larry Hama is navigating several subplots this issue with mostly strong results. As has largely been the case since their introduction, the Revanche Super AI threat isn’t all that exciting. Pairing them with Serpentor Khan has been more compelling as this alliance is trying to manipulate Cobra Commander, Destro and Zartan & the Dreadnoks into a war.

Thankfully, Hama makes Destro’s long awaited return worthwhile as he won’t be so easily maneuvered into a forced conflict. Ditto for Zartan. This issue was only missing Cobra Commander reaching out to his old allies from this being a massive turning point in the arc.

Again, the Joes seem somewhat on the sidelines as this latest Cobra Civil War plays out. Hama does stage a fun Snake Eyes showcase training sequence. But what it ever not be weird reading Snake Eyes talking?

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Veteran artist Paul Pelletier fills in for Chris Mooneyham with little trouble. Mooneyham has a gritty style that works in the context of the zombie Cobra storyline, but it was refreshing to see a different artist’s take on the characters. Inker Tony Kordos and colorist Francesco Segala handle their end of to provide strong visuals as well.

Letterer Pat Brousseau works in all the unique tones for zombies, cyborgs and AI tech smoothly with regular human dialogue. Hama works in an element to the arc that definitely is going to have some lasting impact even if it seems like somewhat of a distraction from the main story.

Issue #306 never gets boring. Hama, Pelletier and company ensure that there’s something interesting playing out at all times as this new era of G.I. Joe RAH keeps rolling strong.

Rating: 8 out of 10