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Hasbro’s G.I. Joe Classified line is getting its own visual guide, with Dark Horse’s in-depth look at the series’ first five years.
Knowing is half the battle, G.I. Joe fans
Hasbro’s complete reinvention of G.I. Joe kicked off in 2020, bringing kids and collectors a whole new scale for the first time. But could Joe work in 6″ scale? The 80s version of the property had become the standard bearer after all, and there are some parts of that which seemed antithetical to a larger scale. Plus, previous attempts at a large form factor had stumbled.
Classified arrived with an even more sci-fi tilt than the iconic line ever had too. It harkened back to the cartoon with laser weapons and added in other high-tech elements. Those themes didn’t last all that long though, as the line hit its stride with more of a classic military vibe.
Since then, Hasbro’s toy line has served up some killer figures, most of which have played directly off of vintage designs. That’s not all though, as there’re also been a surprising number of vehicles and even a series of HasLab projects. Now though, that lineup is expanding, going from plastic to pages. That’ll happen next year, as Dark Horse is cooking something up for 2027.
G.I. JOE: The Definitive Visual Guide to the G.I. JOE Classified Series 2020–2025 will be the result of the new project. Helmed by “visual artist and International Design Award–winner” Brian Hickey, the hardcover book will offer up a mighty 336 pages of action, delving into the first fire years of the series.
And from the sound of it, it might be a book to watch for those who just can’t get enough of Classified.
A tribute to the G.I. JOE Classified Series in its entirety, this volume is also a showcase of the art behind the development and marketing of the toy line. In addition to featuring epic promotional photography and gorgeous packaging illustrations, this tome contains the complete Classified Series Artist Collection—a unique exhibit of artwork from contemporary pop culture’s most renowned artists. A celebration of not only the art but also the artists, this guide includes invaluable insight from the designers, artists, and art directors behind the groundbreaking visual creativity of the G.I. JOE Classified Series toy line.
G.I. JOE: The Definitive Visual Guide to the G.I. JOE Classified Series 2020–2025 (hardcover, 336 pages, 9 × 12”) arrives in comic shops and bookstores on June 1, 2027. It is now available for preorder at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and your local comic shop or bookstore for $69.99.
Dark Horse press release
