G.I. Joe, a Real American Hero #81

The cover of this December 1988 Marvel issue says it all: a G.I. Joe soldier riding a Joe vehicle clashes violently with a wild-haired, mohawked Dreadnok — blade against fist — as their respective vehicles collide in a fierce roadside brawl. The Battle Force 2000 vs. Dreadnoks showdown promised by the cover text looks every bit as raw and physical as it sounds, brought to life here by cover pencils from Marshall Rogers and inks by Bob McLeod. With Larry Hama scripting and Marshall Rogers on interior art, issue #81 delivers that winning combination of military grit and anarchic mayhem that made this series a standout of its era.