DUKE #3, by Image Comics on 2/28/24, finds Duke sitting tight in a jail cell, accused of a crime he didn’t commit when Major Bludd attacks the prison.
The Details
- Written by: Joshua Williamson
- Art by: Tom Reilly
- Colors by: Jordie Bellaire
- Letters by: Rus Wooton
- Cover art by: Tom Reilly
- Comic Rating: Teen
- Cover price: $3.99
- Release date: February 28, 2024
Is DUKE #3 Good?
In the last issue, Duke is on the run. None of the higher-ups in the Joes believe him when he claims to have seen a Decepticon (a Transformer). He’s trying to uncover the truth and tracks down a research scientist who believes him and may have proof of a secret tech project resembling the alien robot Duke saw.
However, Black Ops soldiers raid their meeting, killing the scientist and capturing Duke. He’s imprisoned in the high-security Joe facility called the Pit. This brings us to the latest issue.
Duke grapples with an existential crisis. He wants to follow orders and trust the Joes, but deep down, he knows he saw a giant talking robot. Now he’s in even more trouble, accused of murdering the scientist. In prison, he realizes his cellmate is none other than the Baroness, a cunning operative often associated with Cobra. Though she has shifting loyalties, she might be his only hope.
The Baroness convinces Duke to help her escape so they can help each other. Duke needs her to help him clear his name, and the Baroness believes Duke can help her find answers about the government that now seems to be against her. While awaiting transport to another facility, Major Bludd attacks, sent by a mysterious figure (hinted at being Destro). Major Bludd kills several Joes but Duke helps the Baroness escape, knowing she’s his best chance for survival. A struggle ensues, and a major character you’ll recognize dies. We won’t spoil that here!
Let’s discuss where this issue fits in the larger Energon Universe. Currently, it’s mostly a contained G.I. Joe story. While Duke’s encounter with a Decepticon still motivates him, everything surrounding that remains purely within the G.I. Joe world. Maybe a connection to Cobra or the Decepticons will surface later, but for now, there’s little Transformer overlap.
What we liked about Duke #3
This issue is packed with action and drama! Duke’s internal struggle makes sense given his situation and adds depth to the story. His potential alliance with the unpredictable Baroness is intriguing – can she be trusted? The issue ends on a strong note, with the death of a major character keeping us hooked.
What we didn’t like about Duke #3
Three issues in, the plot hasn’t quite come together. Duke wants the truth, but currently, he has no clear path forward besides the mysterious device he got from the scientist. We don’t know what it does or why it’s important. It feels like the series is still finding its direction. Hopefully, Williamson has a plan in place; it just hasn’t been revealed yet.
Art Quality
Tom Reilly’s art is fantastic, especially when it comes to the explosive military action scenes. You get RPGs, gunfire, combat – it’s intense and well-drawn. Character designs are on point too.
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Final Thoughts
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DUKE #3 boasts great action and pacing. It leaves you feeling for Duke, who’s in a tough spot. It’s great to see a hero facing a challenge that seems insurmountable. We’re excited to see how he gets out of this. The larger Energon Universe connections aren’t as strong in this issue as in other titles like Cobra Commander or Transformers. It mostly feels like a standalone G.I. Joe story. However, that might change in future issues.
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