THE FINAL BATTLE OF THE DREADNOK WAR BEGINS! G.I. Joe and Cobra are on a collision course with the Dreadnoks and whatever remains of Duke & Cobra Commander. The penultimate chapter of the twice-monthly G.I. Joe epic is here!
Writer: Joshua Williamson Publisher: Skybound Entertainment Universe: Energon Universe
“This is not your dad’s G.I. Joe.” And honestly—that’s the point.
G.I. Joe #16 continues The Dreadnok War, and by this stage it’s clear Joshua Williamson isn’t trying to recreate Larry Hama’s legendary run. Instead, he’s building something new—modern, high-energy, and very much its own thing within the Energon Universe.
For longtime fans, that distinction matters.
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A Different Kind of G.I. Joe
Williamson’s G.I. Joe isn’t rooted in Cold War realism or strictly military tactics. This is a louder, more explosive version of the franchise—one that embraces heightened stakes, unexpected alliances, and larger-than-life threats. The Dreadnoks, in particular, feel unhinged and dangerous, serving as the perfect chaotic force to shake both Cobra and the Joes to their core.
This issue leans hard into momentum. There’s very little downtime, and that works in its favor. The story knows what it wants to be and doesn’t hesitate.
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Respecting the Past Without Repeating It
If you’re coming in expecting classic Larry Hama-style storytelling, this may feel unfamiliar—and that’s okay. This series isn’t trying to replace the original A Real American Hero. It exists alongside it, offering a fresh entry point for new readers while giving longtime fans something different to chew on.
Williamson clearly understands the characters, even as he reshapes the sandbox. The tone, pacing, and structure all feel deliberately modern, and the Dreadnok War arc benefits from that confidence.
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The Energon Universe Factor
The Energon Universe continues to be a defining element. It changes the rules, expands the scope, and pushes G.I. Joe into territory that some fans may resist—but it also opens doors to stories that simply couldn’t exist in the classic run.
If you’ve been on the fence, G.I. Joe #16 is a solid issue to check out and decide for yourself. It represents the series well: bold, fast-moving, and unafraid to break from tradition.
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Final Thoughts
G.I. Joe #16 proves that the Dreadnok War arc is firing on all cylinders. It’s not the G.I. Joe you grew up with—but it’s a good series, telling a new story, and it deserves a fair shot.
The Energon Universe isn’t for everyone, but if you’re open to a different take on G.I. Joe, this is absolutely worth checking out.
Buzzer is a cut above the rest in this one. Splitting the action into a collection of tiny panels doesn't quite have as good an impact, but still gives the notion of chaos.