G.I. Joe # 2 Cover A Third Printing 2026 NM-

G.I. Joe #2 (2024)—released on December 18, 2024, by Image Comics and Skybound Entertainment—is a high-octane early chapter in the massively successful, shared Energon Universe franchise.

Written by series architect Joshua Williamson with dynamic interior artwork by Tom Reilly and vibrant coloring by Eisner-winner Jordie Bellaire, this issue escalates the secret war between the newly minted Joes and Cobra over pieces of advanced Cybertronian technology.

Plot Summary: "The Valkyries Arrive"

Picking up immediately after the chaotic events of the first issue, the narrative finds Rock 'n Roll down and the Joes entirely cornered.

• Duke's Rescue: Conrad "Duke" Hauser stages a daring arrival piloting a hijacked Cobra F.A.N.G. helicopter to help his squad pull through. During the firefight, Duke catches a glimpse of the mercenary Mercer working alongside Cobra's forces. 
• The Shard Extracted: Despite a valiant defense by the Joes, Cobra successfully secures the valuable Cybertronian shard. Cobra Commander ensures no assets fall into government hands by remote-detonating their left-behind laser cannons—a secret override feature that visibly upsets Destro, who was completely unaware of it.
• The Valkyries Debut: To solidify their victory and ensure their escape, Cobra Commander officially unveils The Valkyries, an elite, highly trained, all-female special operatives unit that ruthlessly executes any remaining threats. 
• The Aftermath: The issue ends on a somber note for the Joes, with Stalker and Cover Girl hospitalized with incredibly severe injuries following the battle. 

Significance for Collectors

• Key Faction Introduction: This issue is highly sought after by collectors for the historic first appearance of The Valkyries, adding a deadly new tier to the classic Cobra hierarchy.
• Interconnected Lore: It deepens the grounded military tension of Earth-616 alternative lore, showcasing the fallout of weaponizing Autobot and Decepticon technology.