Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points!
For this entry, we have reached the pen-ultimate issue of the beginnings of terror in the Energon Universe. One of pop culture’s most recognizable villains has imposed his will in search of power. After playing a dangerous game with the Dreadnoks, the face of COBRA looks poised to achieve his ultimate goal.
COBRA COMMANDER #4 by Joshua Williamson, Andrea Milana, Annalisa Leoni and Rus Wooton (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics) sees the Commander advancing further into becoming the legendary figure evil G.I. Joe fans know and despise.
Let’s see how this latest chapter squares up.
COBRA COMMANDER #4 by Joshua Williamson, Andrea Milana, Annalisa Leoni and Rus Wooton (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
The chapter begins with the Commander begin led to an underground chamber by Ripper. Lying inside is a very relieved doctor. He thinks the Commander has come to save him. Little does he know what’s happening above the ground.
The Nemesis Enforcer of Cobra-La is laying waste to the Dreadnoks. Zandar and Zarana are hiding and planning a counter attack. They push Buzzer out in the open to be a distraction. The enforcer swoops in and breaks Buzzer’s arm. Zarana doesn’t take a killshot attempt. This forces the remaining Dreadnoks to flee for safety. The enforcer lets them flee as the mission is below the surface.
Once the Commander emerges, he divulges his findings and plans what’s next. However, there appears to be a change in plans.
Readers watch as true plans are revealed. It escalates business as the Commander shows why he is a ruthless figure to oppose. The ending act brings events to a crashing halt. It leads the audience to see another player is entering the fold. How will the ultimate power play end?
COBRA COMMANDER #4 by Joshua Williamson, Andrea Milana, Annalisa Leoni and Rus Wooton (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics) Cover: Andrei Bressan
With Ultimate power at stake, is there anything off limits? Williamson lights the match for a very combustible situation. Seeing the work over the scientist is vintage Cobra Commander. The lying and deceit is justified in his mind. This folds into the conflict of this chapter. The Commander knows what’s at stake and plans for the unexpected.
The action levels up as readers see why the scientist is so dangerous. The writing portrays Commander as an underestimated foe time in and time out. The closing moments throw everything in flux as someone is looming in the distance that will change things forever in the rise of evil.
Milana and Leoni deliver on big action involving the Enforcer. The half page panel of Buzzer’s arm being broken is an intense moment. Wooten’s lettering amplifies the violent outcome. This counters the reveals of what the Commander has been searching for.
The mannerisms displayed indicate the wonderment of knowing what power lies await. This is quickly derailed with a strong panel showcasing a standoff. With a new fight brewing, the action panels grab readers attention. This ends with an incredible full page image dealing the final blow. Fans are gifted a great parting shot leading to a showdown long overdue. There is much to enjoy with this chapter.
FINAL POINT: 8.7
With power within his reach, Cobra Commander is dealt a surprising roadblock in this latest issue. Williamson’s writing brings out the best (and most evil) of the lead character. Milana and Leoni deliver on thunderous action sequences while building the foundation to a can’t miss finale.
Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on Cobra Commander #4. Thanks for reading.
