I was thinking about comic books and while the G.I. Joe Universe really expanded as a comic book property. In truth, I really see the G.I. Joe Universe and characters as not comic book characters per say, but rather as the original idea of it being an action figure line and property.

The fact that it expanded into comic books is a side note.

With that said, I was thinking which G.I. Joe and Cobra characters on their own, could have existed as legitimate comic book characters that could hold their own book and survive in comic book related worlds such as the Marvel Universe, or the DC Universe. Basically, cutting off the whole idea of the G.I. Joe Universe, and taking the character as a solo hero and villain in their own right.

I put up Destro, Cobra Commander, Zartan and the Baroness as good villains that could populate any comic book only world.

Storm Shadow is also great and a good anti-hero of sorts.

But Snake Eyes, I find to be a unique character that could hold not only his own book, but an original enough creation that has not been seen in comics decades prior.

All throughout the ’30’s Golden Age, into the ’80’s I have not found a comic book character quite like Snake Eyes. And that is saying something.

With Snake Eyes in essence, you have a mute hero, with not only ninja skills but military skills as well. A hero with a tragic past, flaws and mystery. As well as a loyal ally who would never betray you. Plus, despite his seemingly extraordinary skills, he does not have any superpowers.

But like an anti-hero of sorts, he does kill his opponents if he has to, and does not give it a second thought. It’s part of the job being in the military and a soldier.

His all black costume, in the tradition of all great heroes, just looks visually cool. And even his name is cool, Snake Eyes.

I also don’t think it’s a surprise that Snake Eyes is usually at the top of the list, or near the top when it comes to a who is your favorite G.I. Joe character polls.

Like Star Wars Boba Fett, the character of Snake Eyes has that enigmatic coolness factor about him.

When all is said though, even though he started out as nothing more then part of an action figure line. Snake Eyes is the type of hero who could easily translate into a comic book only universe. And when you take up all the factors that make up the character, I find him to be an original enough creation that has not existed in comic books before. And that is tough to find. Especially when you think about over 50 years of comic book history.

I wonder how many other modern day comic creations can say that?