This issue kicks off where the last issue left. With two boats, a sea at storm and a giant flying skull aircraft, there’s certainly a lot to take into account. G.I Joe: A Real American Hero #189 is an issue that has to juggle some of the more silly aspects of the title’s run (it is based off of the old comics and toys, for instance) with some modern sensibilities and story telling.

The official description from IDW:

G.I. JOE takes to the high seas to stop the BLACK MAJOR from eliminating the hostages aboard an oil survey ship. Can SCARLETT, STALKER, TORPEDO, GUNG-HO and BEACH HEAD storm the ship and get the hostages to safety? G.I. JOE is in for choppy waters in G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero #189!

Given the small setting, this issue has plenty of characters to juggle around. Whilst the Joes try to save hostages and defeat Cobra, the comic would very easily get lost jumping between rooms and characters. Yet it is, more or less, a fluid enough read. There’s little confusing, instead the title chooses to focus on plenty of action.

It’s not the most serious piece, however, but this is something Larry Hama seems aware of. Some of the dialogue gives clues to this, like questioning the idea of a flying skull-shaped aircraft, whilst other scenes are simply full of slightly-cheesy dialogue. Whilst G.I Joe is generally a serious title, its good to see a writer that doesn’t forget to have a little fun once in a while. On the downside, however, is Black Major. He isn’t that striking a villain. He looks like a generic army type, and he has little charm or unique personality besides ‘selfish’ and ‘bad guy’; that pretty much describes most of Cobra’s line up.

As for the visuals, S L Gallant continues to offer detailed images. The large panels and layout make full use of this, offering large, detailed images where its needed. That said it doesn’t skimp on the details either; Gallant could of got bored and lazy when drawing a wave for the 100th time, but the artist stuck with it. Sometimes you’ve got to be thankful for the little efforts that could of been ignored.

All in all, this is a worthy read for those keeping track of the title. Its easy to pick up and read, but new readers will just be getting another firefight.

3.5/5