Duke #1 (Comic) [Hipster Hotline]

Let’s talk about a G.I. Joe comic book. Not exactly what I’d call hipster material but I think it’ll be worth your time.

Toys. Television. Comics. Movies. G.I. Joe is one of those media properties that’s been around for so long it’s done just about everything except have it’s own theme park. I think… And, with that longevity comes the inevitable reboot, remake, or alternate universe. There’s been a lot! The Joes have even crossed paths with The Transformers in the past. Well, they’re doing it again, but this time we’re starting at the beginning.

Duke #1, written by Joshua Williamson, with art by Tom Reilly and colors by Jordie Bellaire, introduces you to Conrad Hauser AKA Duke, one of the leaders of G.I. Joe in most incarnations. Right now, however, there may not even be a G.I. Joe organization established in this universe. Duke certainly isn’t apart of it if it does exist. The real American hero is dealing with PTSD from his too close for comfort encounter with the infamous Decepticon, Starscream, in Transformers #2.

What we see in this issue is a great soldier mentally broken from his near death experience and his quest to find answers as to where this murderous robot jet came from and who made it. At first, I thought this would lead to more Transformers interactions but it doesn’t. And I think that’s for the better.

What Duke’s quest actually does, unbeknownst to him, is send the accomplished soldier down the path to discovering the existence of Cobra, a terrorist organization and main antagonist of G.I. Joe. We’re witnessing the origins of both organizations and thank goodness this is the main focus of the book. I don’t mind The Transformers and G.I. Joe existing in the same universe, but just like with the DC and Marvel comic universes, I want comic books to be mostly about the character(s)/team named on the title. THEN, you can have crossovers here and there. After reading Duke #1, I’m confident that’s the direction the Energon Universe (The name of this new Transformers/G.I. Joe universe) creators are going with.

Duke #1 is an exciting start to this version of G.I. Joe, filled with legacy characters and references many longtime Joe fans will notice but isn’t required to enjoy the series. Whether you’re already a Joe fan or curious to know why the brand has lasted this long, give this issue a shot. There’s enough mystery, thrills and action to keeps anyone on the edge of their seat. Yo Joe!