G.I. Joe #17: The War Concludes

G.I. Joe #17 concludes the Dreadnok War story arc with a bang, delivering severe consequences for the future of the Energon Universe while also setting up long-awaited developments for upcoming issues of this title. As these events unfold, the lines between heroes and villains become increasingly clear, especially as their interpersonal relationships collide. With this major conflict reaching its conclusion, the power dynamics of the world are completely upended, opening the door to countless new possibilities for the characters moving forward.

To say this story arc ends with action would be an understatement. Artist Tom Reilly and colorist Jordie Bellaire employ a striking visual approach in which intense action sequences are punctuated by an alternation between traditional panels and pages drenched in red. On a practical level, this heightens the impact of the action, but it also amplifies the sense of chaos. The technique has been used to wonderful effect throughout the arc and stands out as a storytelling device worthy of special recognition.

It must also be noted that Tom Reilly is operating at the top of his game with his pencil work here. The action is sharp and feels as though it has been pulled straight from the animated series, while still being infused with the maturity expected of a story aimed at an older audience. One panel in particular perfectly encapsulates everything that makes Reilly’s work exceptional: a full-page splash of Cobra Commander holding a Dreadnok hostage. The sheer level of detail is staggering, and it powerfully showcases the immense talent Reilly brings not only to this series but to every project he touches.

Plot-wise, much of this issue follows a direction that has been carefully telegraphed throughout the arc. That said, the final pages introduce major changes for the universe, including one development that will feel completely out of left field to readers who are not longtime G.I. Joe fans. In typical Joshua Williamson fashion, however, the reveal carries enough nuance to invite deeper discussion and does not undermine what came before. If anything, it makes the rich lore of these characters even more compelling.