For as long as I can remember, GI Joe has been a staple of every young man’s childhood. They’ve come a long way since they used to be nameless 12-inch dolls. The Joes have graced multiple TV shows, comic book lines, and several lines of the famous action figures, but what of video games? You think that the real American heroes would be a perfect fit for a video game right? Well, yes, but not greatly. Alson with a slew of computer and atari 2600 games, the name has graced 2 little-known NES games that were actually pretty good.

The games were side scrolling shooters which allowed players to take control of one of several Gi Joe characters, each of which having thier own abilities and upgradable weapons. The first, which was published by now-defunct publisher Taxan, had players select a three-man team of Joes before the start of each mission. The first of which was a preselected team leader. 5 characters were included; Duke, Snake-eyes, Rock-n-roll, Gridiron, and Blizzard. Hawk was playable in the game’s final mission. Each level was broken into 3 parts. First you make your way to the base, then you search around and plant bombs at various checkpoints, then you escape and battle a boss. The second one, which was published by Capcom, was a little less linear, as you could select which order to take the stages in. You started out with General Hawk this time, although you would run into Wet-Suit, Duke, Roadblock, Storn Shadow, and others after you found them in certain stages.

Although these games didn’t do as well commercially, they were still pretty decent games. Your best bet is to hunt down the roms, seeing as how there is a very slim chance of them being bought to the virtual console. (Seeing as how they are licenced games and such. It dosen’t help matters that the first game’s publisher is out of business as well.) Also, check out Konami’s arcade game while you’re at it.

Cobra Island is reporting some news from the GIJoe Collector’s Club.

The most notable revelation is that a Sigma Six Gung Ho is coming later next year, styled heavily after his 2005 Steel Brigade incarnation, while still retaining the “Gung Ho flair” we all know and love.
In the same interview with designer Steve Bono, it was revealed that BAT commander Overkill is also coming, set to feature interchangable limbs and a removable BRAIN!

While it isn’t stated, I would assume this is part of the normal larger figure line. Not to be confused with the tiny 2.5 inch line, whose mere existence still puzzles many.

YoJoe.com is running a story on a pretty rare figure nicknamed “Pimp Daddy Destro”. This version of Destro was originally meant for an exclusive 3-pack with Cobra Commander and the Baroness. He features a leopard print jacket lining and collar. His upper legs also features this interesting pattern. The article gives foudation to the figure’s availability as a loose item and why it is more common to find them as such, instead of in the mock-ups for the three pack. In light of the recent interview with Ron Rudat, I find these types of articles enlightening regarding the creation of what we see in the stores. Give it a look if you have time.

A couple months ago, The official GI Joe Convention had Slaughter as a guest and presented all new toys of his Renegades.
Darn if their introduction in the movie doesn’t make me chuckle to this day, so enjoy!

YoJoe.com has a really interesting interview up with Ron Rudat. Rudat was a designer for the GI Joe franchise from 1980 to 1987. He was involved since the inception of the 3 3/4 inch line through what could be considered the golden years of the line. He gives some insight into the design process, in addition to a few of the inspirations for characters. Also, of note is the very last couple of lines in the interview. Check it out for yourselves. Its a good read.

Link.

NBC10 in Providence followed a fortunate young lad named Austin who got to go to toy maker Hasbro’s Headquarters in Pawtucket, RI. He gets to gives his opinion on forthcoming toys, do some product testing and even chat with Transformers Guru Aaron Archer!
Austin is currently up for adoption, and I’d take him in a second if he promises to share his haul.

ToyNewsInternational has posted 3 pictures giving us a better look at the upcoming and highly anticipated multi-pack. I have mirrored the images below because their site has been down intermittenly lately.

Cobra Island informs us that these figures feature recast thighs for the original Viper mold and also pointed out that the stands are red.

  

Last weekend was not only an American holiday, but it was also the GI Joe Collectors’ Convention down in New Orleans. Since there was plenty of coverage, I thought I’d try to pull together what I could from different sources and put it all in one place for your reviewing pleasure.

After the jump you will see all my findings. Enjoy.
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