Snake Eyes & Storm Shadow #21 review


The final, and potential the best, issue of Snake Eyes & Storm Shadow, this issue goes out in a very unique way. Snake Eyes & Storm Shadow #21 doesn’t continue the current story lines. Instead, it focuses on the past, getting to the core of what the title is all about.

The official description from IDW:

A ‘silent’ issue in homage to the classic G.I. JOE #21. But this time it’s Storm Shadow in ninja action. He’s survived the massacre of the Arashikage clan and is seeking payback. But he needs to visit the Hard Master before he heads out on the road to vengeance and, possibly, his own destruction. It’s swords and shadows as an era comes to an end.

The most notable aspect of this issue is that its silent; there isn’t a single line of dialogue. Everything is told with actions , not words; something that fits both the title and titular characters exceptionally well. The story spans various time frames, introducing the key characters of Snake Eyes and Storm Shadow.

Despite being silent, Snake Eyes & Storm Shadow is loud in virtually every other way.There’s plenty of action that fits the frame of the story being told. It adds depth and charm that suits the silent role of Snake Eyes. As for Storm Shadow, the lack of dialogue only makes him all the more imposing. The result is the highlighting of a deeper connection between the two adversaries.

Yet its also a very touching piece. The last few pages are very poignant, demonstrating emotion and bonds with a single word spoken.The story telling is highly unique. Its not just the silence, the paneling is ordered, rigid and lends itself well to the timing and framing of the plot; something that is rarely done these days.

In short, this is an excellent issue, and the perfect way to finish a series. Even if you’re not a fan of G.I Joe or the featured characters, this is an issue worth picking up.

S#!T Talking Central