Cobra Commander #5: Rise of Cobra

Cobra Commander #5 concludes the mini series that promised to kick off the rise of Cobra, traditionally known as the biggest enemy of the G.I Joe franchise. From the get-go, it was clear that this take on the titular character was going to be horror influenced, with the creative team going out of their way to show how mentally deranged the villain can be. This conclusion sees the efforts of Cobra Commander lead him into the hands of Destro, who may just hold the key to what he needs to enact his plan to take over the world.

One of the best parts about this series has been the world building. It would be enough to just see Cobra Commander take on the world in his own sadistic nature, but seeing the world around him respond is absolutely awesome. Whereas the sister series, Duke, sees the formation of G.I Joe, with the United States attempting to form a group to take on unknown threats, Cobra Commander sees a man tear through people on sheer will alone, diving towards his goal like a heat seeking missile. The ferocity and insanity of his character alone makes this series so compelling. Yes, this is a stepping stone for the greater Energon Universe, but definitely a character study of the well known villain first and foremost.

After the FCBD Energon Universe special, one of the first questions that came up was how soon all of the revelations within would come to life. Well, Cobra Commander #5 answers that towards the end, revealing that the events that saw Megatron escaping Cobra Commander’s lab happened in real time, and that the inhabitants of Cobra-La are dealing with the ramifications. For those who didn’t read that issue, you may be extremely confused when this comes up in the comic, but for those who are completionists, it makes the world feel so full of life.

The art team of Andrea Milano and Leoni Annalisa do an excellent job of capturing the insanity of this world, juxtaposing the suave demeanor of Destro with the absolute chaotic nature of Cobra Commander. Seeing their two worlds intersect here is a stroke of brilliance on the art side, especially as Destro’s forces are seen reacting to the brutal actions of the Commander. All in all, this art team definitely gives this book its sense of fear and nuance, highlighting evil in all its forms.

No matter where these books are heading, it is clear that the future of G.I Joe is bright with Joshua Williamson at the helm. There are enough deep takes within this issue to make long time fans cheer and celebrate, while at the same time making the world accessible to new readers. Regardless of your own personal history with this franchise, Cobra Commander works on all fronts.