Image Comics reviews 7/17/24 – Destro #2, Redcoat #4

G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero #308

Serpentor Khan launches his opening salvo against Cobra Commander in Springfield, the destination point for both G.I. Joe and the Destro/Zartan alliance. Meanwhile, a four-member squad of Joes — Muskrat, Agent Helix, Multo and Wet Suit — are trying to escape Dr. Mindbender’s clutches and avoid becoming the latest batch of mutates.

Writer Larry Hama loves his Cobra invasion stories. This one is the most unique yet with a Cobra zombie force invading Springfield. Good thing Cobra Commander is ready for them.

It was a little odd that despite Snake Eyes having use of his voice again that Hama opted to make Scarlett the leader of the Ninja Force. Or not have Storm Shadow in that role since he was the leader in the previous run. RAH can occasionally get too ninja heavy as they’re the seemingly unstoppable arm of the Joe forces incapable of getting hurt, captured or defeated. Of the two Joe squads in action this issue, the Muskrat-led crew is far more exciting.

Artist Paul Pelletier provides such clean layouts that there’s no trouble following along with the various subplots especially as the action intensifies. Pelletier does a solid job making the characters very expressive as well. Inker Tony Kordos sharply enhances the art along with the vibrant work of colorist Francesco Segala and flattener Sabrina Del Grosso. Letterer Pat Brosseau maintains clean line work for the dialogue.

Real American Hero #308 lays the exciting final bit of groundwork for the latest Cobra Civil War, which seems like it’s going to be a memorable clash of Cobra forces.

Rating: 8.5 out of 10