GI Joe A Real American Hero #266: Snake Hunt Part 1

This issue, Cobra Commander and Dr. Mindbender virtually invade the Pit, while members of the Joe team work to train the new Snake Eyes, with some special help from Helix, Scarlett, Jinx, and Bombstrike.

Larry Hama, the Godfather of GI Joe, crafts another barn-burner with this first issue in a 10-part story that will include EVERY living GI Joe. Hama does his usual absolutely perfect job with the story and script. I’m so surprised that he isn’t teaching a Master Class in comic script writing, He’s the man that created all these characters, and you can tell. Not a word, move or facial expression seems out of place this issue. It holds the readers’ suspense, yet leaves a lot to the imagination on just where this story is going to take us, As always, Hama gives us an amazing mix of military and sci-fi, making everything authentic, yet never causing you to pull out that military-to-civilian translator. Superbly written as usual.

Then there’s the art. Legendary Joe artist Robert Atkins returns to GI Joe after all-too long an absence, AND he’s brought inker Brian Atkins along with him! Robert is a supremely skilled storyteller, Whether it’s “talking head” panels, close-quarters combat, or a dogfight, Atkins makes everything look kinetic and exciting, He gives a unique, updated look to all the Joes, yet keeps it familiar enough for them to be instantly recognizable. This is a story that’s going to feature every single living GI Joe. When I read that, I was very thankful that Atkins is the artist for this, as I’m convinced that only someone as talented as he is could pull this off. I can’t wait to see his portrayal of Sgt. Slaughter, Rocky Balboa, and The Fridge.