For fans of the classic toyline, cartoon series, and comic books, G.I. Joe represents more than just a group of military heroes fighting the forces of Cobra. Over the years, many characters have emerged as fan favorites, but the question remains: who is the ultimate G.I. Joe? In this article, we’ll dive into the most iconic Joes and explore why they’ve earned their place at the top of the G.I. Joe legacy.
Duke
If Snake Eyes is the face of the franchise’s mystique and martial arts prowess, Duke is the heart and soul of the team. As the field commander of G.I. Joe, Duke is a no-nonsense leader, always prepared to make the tough decisions in the heat of battle. He has a strong moral compass and puts the safety of his team and the world first.
Duke’s character was heavily featured in the 1980s cartoon, where he became a fan favorite for his strong leadership and fierce dedication. He’s not flashy, but his dedication to duty and his ability to inspire his fellow Joes make him one of the ultimate candidates for the top spot in the team.
Snake Eyes
No discussion about the ultimate G.I. Joe can begin without mentioning Snake Eyes. Arguably the most famous and beloved character in the franchise, Snake Eyes is a silent, mysterious, and deadly ninja-commando. His all-black outfit, ninja skills, and the fact that he doesn’t speak have made him an enigmatic figure in both the G.I. Joe comics and cartoons.
Snake Eyes is the embodiment of stealth and combat efficiency. Trained as a ninja by the Arashikage clan, he can easily dispatch enemies in close combat and is an expert marksman. His deep connection with Storm Shadow, his blood brother turned Cobra adversary, adds emotional depth to his character. Snake Eyes’ popularity has only grown over the years, with his origin story being central to the G.I. Joe mythos. For many, Snake Eyes is the ultimate embodiment of what it means to be a G.I. Joe.
Scarlett
Scarlett, real name Shana O’Hara, is one of the most skilled and respected members of G.I. Joe. As the first female Joe, she shattered stereotypes with her intelligence, combat skills, and strategic acumen. Scarlett is a martial arts expert, highly skilled with a crossbow, and serves as the team’s intelligence officer.
Her relationship with Snake Eyes adds a layer of complexity to her character, and her status as one of the most reliable and capable members of the team has earned her widespread admiration. Scarlett’s resilience, brains, and leadership make her a strong contender for the ultimate G.I. Joe.
Gung-Ho
Gung-Ho is a tough, charismatic Marine and a standout member of G.I. Joe. Known for his muscular build, Cajun roots, and loyalty, he brings raw strength and fearlessness to every mission. Gung-Ho’s iconic bare-chested look and Marine Corps tattoo symbolize his unwavering dedication to his team and country. Whether charging into battle or supporting his fellow Joes, he’s always ready for action.
Featured in cartoons, comics, and action figures, Gung-Ho’s larger-than-life presence makes him a fan-favorite and a strong contender for the ultimate G.I. Joe.
Roadblock
With his massive size, booming voice, and culinary skills, Roadblock stands out as one of the more charismatic members of the team. Not only is he a powerhouse on the battlefield, wielding heavy weapons like no other, but he’s also a loyal friend and protector.
Roadblock’s inclusion in multiple iterations of G.I. Joe media, from comics to cartoons to live-action films, is a testament to his popularity. His combination of brute strength and heart makes him a beloved character in the franchise and a worthy candidate for the ultimate G.I. Joe title.
Who is the Ultimate G.I. Joe?
Determining the ultimate G.I. Joe is subjective and largely depends on what you value most in a character. Snake Eyes is often viewed as the quintessential Joe due to his mystery, skill, and deep storylines, while Duke represents the steadfast leadership and heroism central to the franchise. Scarlett, Gung-Ho, and Roadblock each bring unique traits to the team, and their contributions to G.I. Joe’s success are undeniable.
Ultimately, the ultimate G.I. Joe may be different for every fan, but together, these characters represent the strength, diversity, and heroism that has kept G.I. Joe a beloved franchise for decades.