Duke’s search for answers has led him to a classified holding site for America’s most dangerous prisoners. Now he’s the most wanted man in the world. Unfortunately, everyone seems to prefer him Dead over Alive. Duke #3 features a ton of actions as we learn more about the man and the list of those that want him grows.

Written by Joshua Williamson, Duke #3 is a fantastic example of the newest take on G.I. Joe and Transformers. The series has excelled at taking what has come before and delivering something that’s familiar but also new. It’s not quite a remix, it’s not quite a reboot, it’s something… else. The issue has Duke capture and being held in The Pit with Clutch and a surprising prisoner… Baroness. Yes, the classic femme fatale made her debut last issue and we get a quick rundown as to her background in this take as she attempts to recruit Duke for an escape. But… there’s so much more going on as Destro wants Duke captured and sends another familiar character for the mission.

Duke #3 is packed with action and nostalgia and one hell of a surprising “origin” for a character’s trademark look. The comic does a fantastic job of packing in excitement but also diving a bit more into Duke’s character, what he’s struggling with, and also those that captured him. It’s far more than just flash and excitement. But that excitement…

It’s all helped by the art of Tom Reilly. With Jordie Bellaire on color and lettering by Rus Wooton, the comic continues to do an excellent job of delivering visuals that are familiar, building off of classic designs. The debut of a new character and his troops will put a smile on long time fans’ faces as it teases what’s to come but also what has come. There’s also one brutal moment that will get readers to wince and say “holy shit,” with punch added by Bellaire’s coloring. Wooton’s lettering also adds to the excitement and drama making the visuals a perfect match to Williamson’s narrative.

Duke #3 is another homerun for Skybound‘s Energon Universe. The issue does an amazing job of honoring what has come before but also treading its own path. There’s more than enough action, drama, and heart to keep readers engaged and entertained and wanting more. It makes us want to stand up and yell… Yo JOE!

Story: Joshua Williamson Art: Tom Reilly
Color: Jordie Bellaire Letterer: Rus Wooton
Story: 8.4 Art: 8.35 Overall: 8.4 Recommendation: Buy

Skybound provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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Purchase: TFAW – Zeus Comics – Kindle