In this issue, after Darklon was allowed to escape, several Joes without knowledge of a tracking device are sent to pursue Darklon into the mountains. We also get a brief glimpse of Zartan and Cobra Commander discussing rebuilding Cobra by bringing all the ranks back together again, including Darklon whom Zartan’s sister is aligned with, Destro, and Baroness.
It’s another great story by Larry Hama, bringing in more Joes, including Lowlight, who is one of my favorite Joe characters. The stories piece together well, and the jump into each one of the four total transitions smoothly. From what I’m gathering, this story is pushing towards a reconciliation between Cobra leaders which would make Cobra stronger than ever. I’m starting to see Duke as more and more a company man by hiding information from his Joe officers throughout the ranks by pulling the “need to know” card quite often. I was intrigued by the Darklon story the most because I found myself cheering for him to escape (If I had to choose sides, I’m a cobra fan). Like I said – it’s another great story from Larry. I never have any complaints when it comes to his writings.
The artwork is decent; as usual, the penciling styles of Ron Frenz left me feeling as though I was a part of the book and not just reading it. Facial expressions are easily read. Shading was well done, including a night vision scene, and he also does an awesome job with my favorite character, Zartan. My only complaint about any of the art is the cover. I’m not sure why they decided to use Storm Shadow and Snake Eyes on one of the three covers as they are not even in the story (Storm Shadow was mentioned briefly by one of the characters). Larry Hama’s penciled cover was a nice surprise. I never realized he drew any of the art, and if I can find this at my local comic shop I will pick it up.
Overall, interesting plot twists, great artwork, and the introduction of characters blended together to make for a great read! I Give it 3 out of 3 Yo Joes! I strongly recommend you pick this up at your local comic shop.
