Cobra #18 (IDW)

writer: Mike Costa
artist: Antonio Fuso

Much of this issue is dedicated to another of Cobra's patented character studies, this time of Ronin, a character unique to the series.

Linked to Jinx (killed early in the Cobra chronology) and Chameleon (Erika Le Tene), which was actually Ronin's previous identity, this is the first time we spend quality time with her.  Ronin might previously have been described as the chick with the samurai swords who struck an impressive appearance but who otherwise was pretty anonymous.  That's what helps make this another standout issue, although Cobra has been full of them, just one of the many reasons that I still cannot understand why it has never broken out from anything more than cult status.  This has consistently been one of the best comic books in the market.

(It's worth noting that Mike Costa's original writing collaborator, Christos Gage, is referenced in an Easter Egg this issue.)

Anyone looking for additional signs of awesomeness will also take note that the issue also includes the Oktober Guard, the Russian equivalent to G.I. Joe, an element that has only just been introduced to the series.  Anyone concerned when I say "character rich" ought to know that there is plenty of action.  As I said, Ronin was previously known as the ninja, and Cobra clashing with the Guard makes a big splash at the start of the issue.

I cannot possibly recommend this series highly enough.