G.I Joe Volume 1: The Cobra Strikes Review
Yo Joe! The gang’s all here—G.I. Joe: The Cobra Strikes! has arrived, and now everyone can dive into the world of the coolest action heroes around.
Released on June 4th, 2025, Joshua Williamson’s long-awaited G.I. Joe Volume 1 collection marks a fresh new beginning for the Joes, inviting both new and longtime readers to fall in love all over again. With four previous mini-series setting up characters and lore—and tying into the larger Energon Universe—it all comes together beautifully in this action-packed volume, full of stunning art and unforgettable characters.
This volume throws you right into the action, while still taking time to flesh out each character, their personalities, and their struggles. Every Joe brings a unique dynamic to the team, and watching them learn and grow throughout the story is a real highlight. For readers of Duke and Cobra Commander, familiar faces return such as Duke, The Baronness and Cobra Commander —and their motivations continue to evolve in compelling ways.
This volume has large implications to the story and Energon universe while also containing an excellent story with 6 issues. Every issue in this feels great, and while some left me yearning for more story, I always come back next month to see whats next for the Joes. With tight storytelling and focusing on only a few iconic characters, it really let everyone have their time to shine. As much as I wish Scarlett or Snake Eyes appeared in this story, it was very well contained while clearly setting up a lot more.
Williamson brings a tone that’s equal parts grounded and cinematic, balancing intense action with human moments. This book feels like an action movie. Stunning artwork from Tom Reilly and Jordie Bellaire—who previously teamed up on the Duke miniseries—makes every page a visual treat. The linework and colors are crisp, expressive, and packed with energy. Each character has been visually refreshed, and they all look fantastic.
I only have praise for this book. Since I started reading the Energon titles, I’ve been completely pulled in by the storytelling—and I only want more.
This volume is extremely accessible for new readers to G.I Joe or the Energon universe, you won't feel like you are missing on years of storytelling by picking up this volume. While I do recommend reading all the miniseries released, this can be enjoyed by itself.
Now that we have this first volume out and the second arc starting in just a few short weeks, this is a great time to add G.I Joe to your pull list as your local comic shop.
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