167: “Storm Shadow (v2)” G.I. Joe “Real American Hero” Series 7, 1988

167: “Storm Shadow (v2)” G.I. Joe “Real American Hero” Series 7, 1988

One of my favourites for sure, this was another addition to the “ninjas” in my collection. As they had done with Snake-Eyes in 1985, this is an updated version of an earlier figure - the original Storm Shadow who made his debut in 1984.

There is a lot I loved about this figure. I thought his outfit was pretty interesting and is similar in it’s “camoflage” treatment to that of Shockwave (165) and Repeater (163) of this same year, with the geometric “tetris” shapes. I love the overall colour palette of this figure and his accessory with the simplicity of white, black, grey, and red. Also his accessories were amazing to me as a kid. I loved the shape and design of his sword and backpack but the most amazing thing was his WOLVERINE CLAWS. I mean you have to imagine as a kid you are SUPER into Wolverine and you desperately wish you have a figure with Wolverine claws and then BAM here comes Storm Shadow v2 with that exact accessory. Let me tell you, that clip-on claw was used by many different figures for all sorts of different scenarios and battles!

There is a lot of division when it comes to updated figures, especially the most iconic and beloved figures like Snake-Eyes and Storm Shadow. Most folks agree that the “visor” Snake-Eyes from 1985 was their favourite, but Storm Shadow proves more divisive. I personally really like this figure and think the hood and camo are interesting and fitting for the design aesthetic of this particular year (1988).

One other thing of note is the influence that the comics had on the figures. I was reading the G.I. Joe comics Marvel was putting out at the time and there is a whole complex story about the evolution of his character and his relationship with Snake Eyes and his affiliation with Cobra etc etc. It is truly great comic writing, by the amazing Larry Hama. One of the amazing things about this G.I. Joe Real American Hero line was that so much character development occurred as a result of the comics and the file-cards on the back of every figure package. SO having said all that you’ll note that this time around Storm Shadow is a member of G.I. Joe, NOT Cobra. His character is complex and has an incredible arc. I encourage you to read up on it if you haven’t.

Okay so one last thing: this is another addition to the figures are ninjas (and also camo). Head to gijoe365.com and click the “NINJA” button to see ALL the ninja figures so far!