Currently on shelves across the U.S. are Hasbro’s fantastic 25th Anniversary G.I. Joe comic two-packs. The Snake Eyes vs. Storm Shadow set from the line’s fourth wave features issue #21B of the G.I. Joe comic (from Devil’s Due Publishing) which is set along the same arc as Snake Eyes’ rescue of Scarlett in the original book. The set features a Snake Eyes with both new and old parts as well as repainted a Storm Shadow. While on first glance, these figures may seem like more of the same, the Snake Eyes will make an excellent addition to your collection while the Storm Shadow is also usable.

The figures are available in Hasbro’s standard packaging for the comic two-packs, featuring a blister card/bubble combo with the figures secured in full view. The packaging is easy to open and accessible for loose collectors, while MOC collectors will love the in-package display of both figures.

Addressing the sculpting, since one figure is a repaint and the other is only partially new, it is hard to critique them. Frankly, I love this version of Snake Eyes but could pass on the Storm Shadow. In a sea of endless Snake Eyes figures, this is one I would definitely recommend for any Joe fan. The new parts showing torn fabric looks great and give the version a very unique ‘battle damaged’ look. Storm Shadow, which is a repaint of the Series 2 Urban Camo release, is good but not great. He is a fine-looking ninja figure and I use him as a Crimson Guard-deco Storm Shadow, but I could take him or leave him. This version is just another of a character with LOADS of other, cooler figures behind him. I would have preferred a Storm Shadow in his original costume with battle-damage as well, as with Snake Eyes.

The paint and coloring with each figure are solid. Again, Snake Eyes is the more detailed of the two, and his sculpt is highlighted via the pain apps. Storm Shadow’s paint is fine but again, the choices aren’t that exciting. He fits in good with the Crimson Guards, which looks cool but isn’t that inspiring. Despite this criticism, those building a Storm Shadow Arishikage Ninja Clan will love the new color scheme simply because it is not shared by any other Storm Shadow release in the 3.75” scale.

Before discussing all the accessories, I need to get this out of the way… I loathe Storm Shadow’s bow and arrow. They look ludicrous and the figure cannot hold them well. I don’t even know what I’m going to do with these accessories. When Storm Shadow is equipped with all his gear, the bow’s bright colors match the sword hilts and looks passable. However, the blues are just too much – particularly for a ninja.

The rest of the accessories are fairly solid. Each figure includes weapons and gear as well as a 25th Anniversary-style base. Storm Shadow’s scarlet cloak rules and the repainted swords and knives are fine, though again the blue seems too bright. Snake Eyes is equipped with loads of removable mission gear, an uzi, pistol and a knife. A curious omission is his sword, which he is holding on the cover of the included comic.

Despite the strength of these accessories, the included comic isn’t all that great. It is numbered as “Issue 21B” and is supposedly intended to take place during the events of the original G.I. Joe issue #21 from Marvel. However, does not feel like an addendum or alternate retelling of the events but rather a poor remake. The new comic is flashier and bigger than the original but lacks the tone and substance that made the original story entertaining. I have the original Marvel Issue #21, and it is flawless but this new book did nothing for me.

Overall, this set is a toss up. The Snake Eyes is fantastic, easily worth the ten bucks alone. He is just that cool and I think he’s one of the most unique Snake Eyes figures in this line. Storm Shadow, less his unique robe accessory, is pretty a banal entry in an extensive library of interpretations of the character. His bow is so hideous it makes the old Lanard Corp weaponry look good. The comic is a sad attempt to enhance an older story but just falls flat, lacking the original’s compelling feel and tone. When it comes to this set, you’re paying for the Snake Eyes, plain and simple. Luckily, he’s completely worth every penny. Yo Joe!

You can read more of C.J.’s musings on film, toys and music over at stunksstage.com.