G.I. JOE #22 (IMAGE COMICS/SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT)

After the Dreadnok War, the quest to find Energon has never been greater.

Both G.I. Joe and COBRA are going to great lengths to find the powerful energy. One thing they cannot predict is a new player stepping into the game. They have D.I.R.E. tech and ulterior motives. He also has his sights set on the newest Joe!

His name is CRYSTAL BALL!

G.I. Joe #22 by Joshua Williamson, Andrea Milana, Lee Loughridge & Rus Wooten delivers another round of action and excitement!

Let’s take a closer look at how events play out now!

G.I. Joe #21 by Joshua Williamson, Tom Reilly, Lee Loughridge & Rus Wooten ( IMAGE Comics/Skybound)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Williamson plays into the internal conflict with COBRA’s two leads to kick things off. The banter leans into the one-upsmanship both have been trying to stage since the War’s conclusion. Their exchange leaves Destro on the worse end as he is forced into action. The writing also puts a spotlight back on a character we haven’t seen much of lately. Risk’s nightmares come back at an unwelcomed time. Trying to refocus on a mission becomes more difficult. This becomes worse as his unit stumbles upon Destro’s group.

Readers watch as the charismatic villain tries seeing the larger picture. Unfortunately for all parties, both units have egos that don’t want to play nice. It leads into fast action but not before teasing the true villain at hand. Once Crystal Ball appears, the writing shows off his ego as he attacks both groups. Williamson ties back Risk to this plot point in a fine way. Irt helps elevate the conflict before going to close. Events conclude on a great cliffhanger to tease what’s next. Can’t ask for much better than that.

READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW!

Milana & Loughridge show the power struggle between Cobra Commander and Destro in a sly way. Commander boasting about his win and demeaning Destro is picture perfect Commander. It leads to building drama & a great half panel. Risk’s flashbacks take over for a strong two page run. Getting this side of the character finally showcases more layers to his persona. The dark backdrop of Badhikistan adds to the haunting aura of the story. Once both groups run into each other, the story picks up pace.

A solid half panel shows Destro’s group waiting in the wings. Readers watch as tensions run high. This leads into the frantic pace of combat. There’s loads of vibrant action as the groups adapt to Ball’s attack. The main villain here gets a full page of panels to introduce him to the fight. All show his unhinged nature as he works in secrecy. Once he hones in one character, the panels reflect the devious attacks. It leaves to a great final page, teasing much more danger to come!

FINAL GRADE: 8.8

The hunt for Energon leads both G.I. Joe and COBRA into a combined front with a new player causing havoc. Williamson presents a new look to one character as the story twists and turns. Milana & Loughridge tap into horror aspects as the battle begins. G.I. Joe is a sure-fire lock to deliver action and excitement each issue!

Let us know your thoughts on G.I. Joe #22 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!