Fans of the iconic 80s action figure and cartoon franchise are gearing up for a comprehensive collection of classic G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero comics. Skybound Entertainment and Image Comics are launching a Kickstarter campaign on March 24, 2026, at 6 a.m. PT, for G.I. JOE: A Real American Hero Compendium Sets 1+2. This project aims to gather over 300 issues of the long-running series, spanning from 1994 to 2022, into eight deluxe hardcover volumes.
The new compendium builds on the success of a previous Kickstarter campaign and offers a complete collection for dedicated fans. The sets will feature new key art by artist Andy Kubert, bringing a fresh look to the beloved characters and storylines. According to Skybound, these collections represent “the most comprehensive assemblage of G.I. JOE: A REAL AMERICAN HERO material ever,” promising a definitive edition for collectors.
A Legacy Continues in Hardcover
The G.I. Joe comic book has a complex history, with runs across multiple publishers. The current series, published by Image Comics under the Skybound Entertainment imprint, directly continues the narrative established by Marvel Comics and IDW Publishing, beginning with issue #301 in November 2023, as detailed in a Wikipedia entry on the series. This new compendium will collect issues #155 ½ to #300, alongside annuals and special issues, offering a complete arc for readers.
Larry Hama, the writer who has been instrumental in shaping the G.I. Joe universe for decades, expressed his enthusiasm for the project. “I am really glad that there will finally be a quality compendium of the continuation of my run on G.I. JOE: A Real American Hero beyond the initial Marvel run and into the IDW issues,” Hama said. “This will be the first time that a uniform hard-bound edition will be produced that includes the first 300 issues, along with covers and many exclusive extras. A real must for loyal fans and completists!”
Exclusive Perks for Dedicated Fans
The Kickstarter campaign isn’t just about collecting the comics; it’s about enhancing the experience for devoted fans. Backers of the initial G.I. JOE: A Real American Hero Compendium campaign will have the opportunity to purchase this new set, continuing their collection. The campaign promises a range of exclusive offerings, including signed bookplates from Larry Hama, faux leather hardcover options, spot gloss and foil finishes, gilded edges, satin ribbons, and collectible items like patches, pins, and stickers.
Beyond the aesthetic upgrades, the campaign will also include individual issue reprints and two source books featuring artwork from previous trading cards and vehicle designs, offering a deep dive into the history of the franchise. Fans can sign up for updates and early access to the campaign at www.GIJoeKickstarter.com.
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Skybound’s Commitment to the ‘G.I. Joe’ Universe
Skybound Entertainment acquired the licenses to produce G.I. Joe comics in December 2021, following IDW Publishing’s loss of the licenses at the complete of 2022. This acquisition signaled a renewed commitment to the franchise, alongside the “Energon Universe” of comics. Alex Antone, Editorial Director at Skybound, emphasized the scale of this new project. “Following the massive success of our first G.I. JOE campaign, we’re going BIGGER and BETTER with the second campaign!” Antone stated. “These collections are the most comprehensive assemblage of G.I. JOE: A REAL AMERICAN HERO material ever, and we can’t wait for fans to see what we have cooked up.”
The Kickstarter campaign for the G.I. JOE: A Real American Hero Compendium Sets 1+2 launches on March 24, 2026, offering fans a chance to own a definitive collection of this beloved comic series. Those interested in supporting the project and receiving updates can sign up for the mailing list at www.GIJoeKickstarter.com. Further details about the campaign tiers and exclusive rewards will be revealed closer to the launch date.
Fans can expect more information about the campaign, including specific tier details and reward previews, as the March 24th launch date approaches. Stay tuned to the official Kickstarter page for updates and prepare to choose a side: G.I. Joe or Cobra.
