Created by the American media franchise Hasbro, and released as a toy line-up, G.I. Joe was a pro-American soldier toy. The first line-up featured representation for the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. G.I. Joe specifically chose its name due to its association with soldiers.
G.I. is a term that originally referred to galvanized iron as was used by U.S. soldiers but later came to be used for Government Issue, General Issue, and Ground Infantry. G.I. Joe was also the first toy to be called an action figure.
The original action figure released on February 2, 1964 was a 12 inch realistic figure. The line-up was then relaunched in 1982 in its currently known 3.75 inch scale. Since the second release, the figures have seen vehicles, playsets, and even enemies to fight. Their enemy? The Cobra organization. While G.I. Joes represented the ideals of the Free World, Cobra represented terrorism.
But where would we be if we didn’t talk about comic books during our weekly round-up? Most people credit G.I. Joe’s success with children to it’s successful television show and Marvel comic book tie in which starting at the same time as the relaunch in 1982. So lets talk about that comic book, and a couple more!
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G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero (1982) While being the first appearance of so many beloved characters, this first comic book included multiple stories. The more interesting thing though is that this comic book holds the title of being the first comic book to have been advertised on television! Written by Larry Hama. |
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G.I. Joe and the Transformers #1 (1987) Interests in the new launch of the Power Station Alpha draws the attention of Cobra as well as the Decepticons. While G.I. Joe could handle the Cobra Commandos, they’ll need help from the Autobots if they have any chance at keeping the station safe from Megatron. How perfect is it that two toy line-ups both received comic books, and then got to share the pages together. Written by Michael Higgins with art from Herb Trimpe. |
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Snake Eyes: Declassified (2006) For the first time, and with nothing held back, the secrets of Snake-Eyes are finally revealed to readers. This much loved and idolized figure from the G.I. Joe line-up is finally given the time and attention he deserves. Whether you love Snake Eyes for his time as a Joe, or just love anything to do with ninjas, this will keep you interested. Written by Brandon Jerwa. |
What’s your favorite memory of G.I. Joe from your childhood?
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