The new release of GI Joe #1 marks a milestone in comics and sets a record for Hasbro
This fall, comic book publishers have seen some of the biggest releases of the year and GI Joe #1 from Image Comics, Skybound and Hasbro is no exception. Against 225,000 orders In its first reprint, this issue becomes the largest release of a GI Joe series in history and surpasses Hasbro’s previous release record, set by the success Transformers no. 1 the Daniel Warren Johnson.
A new era in comics?
In addition to establishing itself as the number one in the GI Joe franchise, this release represents a new milestone in the Hasbro universe, arriving at a time when blockbuster releases are becoming increasingly rare. Authors Joshua Williamson, Tom Reilly and Jordie Bellaire have achieved the unthinkable: making this series one of the most sought after in today’s competitive comic book market.
He’s not alone GI Joe the one who breaks the mold. This year, the market has witnessed other great featsas in the case of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtleswhich reached 300,000 pre-sale orders, favored by exclusive store coverage. For its part, DC bet big with the launch of the Absolute universehighlighting the collaboration of Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta in Absolute Batmanwhich reached around 250,000 orders adding all the distributors.
The success of the Energon universe, which has surpassed 3 million copies in just 16 monthsit’s also part of this new golden age for comics. While Batman has been the industry standard for years, lately similar sagas The definitive Spider-Man Yes Transformers They are starting to reclaim that throne. This shows that fans are enthusiastically responding to series with powerful reach and narrative.
The expansion of the Energon universe and its impact on the market
Transformerspart of the Energon universe, continues to sell almost 100,000 copies per month more than a year after its release, a figure that new series today rarely reach. This success is not only reflected in comics, but also in sales of graphic novels and Transformers Rivals of the Voidwhose second edition saw a notable increase in orders.
One of the biggest mysteries around GI Joe #1 it was the lack of information on some pages that Skybound didn’t want to reveal even to other creators. However, there is speculation that there will be a major appearance by a Transformers character in this serieswhich could further increase sales. Furthermore, collectors are already stocking up on the most exclusive covers, such as the David Finch variant (1:500), which promises to turn this series into a collector’s gem.
A renewed hero
The new GI Joe #1 features an exciting return to the team’s roots, featuring Conrad Hauser, aka Dukeleading a special force that will face the threat of COBRA. This new, more modern and complex incarnation shows Duke as a character deeply motivated by the dangers of today’s world and with an approach that resonates with an audience seeking new adventures and more realistic characters. Joshua Williamson brought this new version to life, respecting Hauser’s legacy but adding layers of depth.
The arrival of Duke and GI Joe at Image Comics makes it an interesting title also for fans who follow similar sagas Transformerswith which it shares the vast Energon universe. Both characters now face challenges that explore modern themes, such as alien technology and global power struggles, expanding their stories into a new shared horizon.
GI Joe #1 in top collector and store sales
With more than 225,000 copies in circulation and to Release date confirmed for November 13, 2024expectations are sky high. Even exclusive items that appeared at New York Comic Con, such as GI Joe Ashcan #1, have already sold for up to $140, underscoring the huge demand for this title and related collectibles.