Skybound Entertainment, Image Comics, and Hasbro are preparing to launch a major new chapter in the Energon Universe. The publishers announced that G.I. JOE #25 will kick off a long-awaited G.I. Joe vs. Night Force storyline when the issue arrives in comic shops on August 19, 2026.
The oversized issue reunites writer Joshua Williamson with artists Tom Reilly and Andrea Milana. The creative team also includes colorist Lee Loughridge and letterer Rus Wooton.
A Major Energon Universe Event
The milestone issue sets the stage for a conflict fans have been anticipating for more than two years.
“It had to happen: G.I. JOE vs Night Force!”
According to the publishers, the storyline will push the Energon Universe into its biggest G.I. Joe event yet. The issue promises battles between former allies, major revelations, and dramatic new additions to the franchise.
Williamson said the crossover reflects the long-form storytelling approach that has defined the Energon Universe since its launch.
“One of the many things I love about working on the Energon Universe is the opportunity for long-form storytelling,” Williamson said. “The ability to craft and earn a big story like G.I. JOE vs Night Force. Something we’ve been setting up since the first mini-series.”
He also teased major changes ahead for the franchise.
“This is our biggest issue yet, full of major surprises, twists, turns and new characters,” Williamson added. “This story will change the face of G.I. JOE and will kick off a massive story for the Energon Universe, but what could possibly make G.I. JOE and the Night Force team want to fight each other?”
Variant Covers Revealed
The issue will feature a wraparound main cover by Reilly along with an extensive lineup of variant covers.
Open-to-order variants include artwork by Jerome Opeña and Neeraj Menon, as well as a separate cover by Miki Okazaki.
Retailer incentive covers include a 1:25 streetwear variant by Fadime Yildirim, a 1:50 variant by Michele Rubini and Annalisa Leoni, and a 1:100 foil variant by Jonboy Meyers.
Additional editions will include blank sketch covers for both JOE and Night Force, a foil edition by Reilly, and a die-cut Zartan mask foil cover by Milana and Andres Juarez.
Building Toward Issue #25
Executive Editor Ben Abernathy said the milestone issue represents years of planning across the Energon Universe line.
“To launch such a pivotal event with the 25th issue is incredible,” Abernathy said. “We’ve been building toward this storyline for over two years and it’s thrilling that it’s finally come together.”
G.I. JOE #25 arrives in comic book shops and on digital platforms Wednesday, August 19, 2026.
