Skybound and Image Comics, in collaboration with Hasbro, reveal preview pages and variant covers for G.I. JOE #18, and the spotlight is firmly on Roadblock.
The fan-favorite heavy gunner makes his first-ever appearance in the Energon Universe when the issue hits comic shops on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
Roadblock Makes His Move
Issue #18 delivers a standalone Night Force covert operation that introduces Roadblock to the shared Energon Universe. His arrival raises immediate questions.
Will Roadblock enlist with Lady Jaye and Flint’s Night Force? Or does his mission pull him toward another faction entirely? The issue positions his debut as a turning point with implications that extend beyond a single operation.
The Creative Team
The issue comes from writer Joshua Williamson, artist Marco Foderà, colorist Lee Loughridge, and letterer Rus Wooton. The team continues to expand the Energon Universe while giving Roadblock a decisive entrance.
Variant Covers for Collectors
G.I. JOE #18 ships with a wide range of variant covers. The lineup includes the main cover by Reilly, open-to-order variants by Kendrick Lim and Ben Oliver, a 1:25 incentive variant by Lucas Meyer and Adriano Lucas, a 1:50 incentive variant by Michele Rubini and Romulo Fajardo Jr., and a 1:100 incentive foil variant by Patricia Martín.
A Key Moment for the Energon Universe
G.I. JOE remains a cornerstone of the Energon Universe and a centerpiece of the Skybound and Hasbro partnership. The shared universe also includes Void Rivals and the Eisner Award winning TRANSFORMERS, both feeding into a larger narrative across major franchises.
With Roadblock now in play, G.I. JOE #18 signals a shift in the Energon Universe and sets the stage for major developments ahead.
