Destro #5 Review: Going Out With a Bang

Destro #5

Review

Rating

9

Good

Writer: Dan Watters

Artist: Andrei Bressan

Publisher: Skybound

Release Date: October 16, 2024

Page Count: 32

Format: Single-issue

Destro #5 smashes with an action-packed finale that cements the steel-faced mastermind as a force to be reckoned with in Skybound's Energon Universe. With its blend of campy fun and ruthless scheming, this issue wraps up a miniseries that truly showcases why Destro is such a compelling villain.

Destro #5

Review

Writer: Dan Watters

Artist: Andrei Bressan

Publisher: Skybound

Release Date: October 16, 2024

Page Count: 32

Format: Single-issue

Destro #5 smashes with an action-packed finale that cements the steel-faced mastermind as a force to be reckoned with in Skybound's Energon Universe. With its blend of campy fun and ruthless scheming, this issue wraps up a miniseries that truly showcases why Destro is such a compelling villain.

Rating

9

Good

As Skybound expands the Energon Universe, the G.I. Joe side of things has been steadily growing through character-focused miniseries. Among these, Destro, by Dan Watters and Andrei Bressan, stands out as it dives deep into the cunning mind of one of G.I. Joe's most iconic villains. This five-issue run gives readers a first-hand look at the machinations of the Energon Universe's most fearsome weapons dealer, setting the stage for his crucial role in the upcoming main G.I. Joe series.

While I was lukewarm about the series when it first started, it has since unfolded as an exciting series that continuously showed new layers of Destro's ruthless character. There’s a certain thrill in watching a genius supervillain exact petty revenge on anyone foolish enough to cross him. I found myself completely won over when I realized Destro is a James Bond villain transplanted into the G.I. Joe universe. As we reach the finale, the question is: does Destro #5 stick the landing and set up an exciting future for the character? Let’s dive in and find out!

Overview of Destro #5

In this explosive finale, Tomax and Xamot make their bold move to seize control of M.A.R.S., only to find out that Destro is anything but dead The steel-faced mastermind strikes back with a vengeance, taking the fight directly to the twins in a bid to reclaim his company and solidify his alliance with the Cobra Commander. As the dust settles, Destro proves beyond a doubt why he’s still the undisputed king of the arms trade in this brave new world.

Image: Skybound

Review

For a miniseries that follows the machinations of a criminal mastermind, Destro #5 delivers a killer finale that solidifies the steel-faced villain as a major threat within the Energon Universe. Despite my early reservations about the series, it has been an excellent showcase of how to build up such a compelling character for a new audience. Writer Dan Watters ties together everything that makes the series so fun in this issue, creating great moments of over-the-top action, gritty confrontations, and captivating character moments. Destro’s snarky yet suave demeanor coupled with his ruthless tactics make him a joy to follow—even if you know you should be rooting against him.

What’s brilliant about this final issue is that it has Destro at his Machiavellian best, regardless if he’s dealing with friends or foes. The best moments are when Destro outmaneuvers Tomax and Xamot using his unmatched brains, brawn, and firepower. Meanwhile, the issue also shows how his alliance with Cobra Commander is rife with tension, suggesting that, while they’re allies for now, their competing ambitions could spark a major conflict in the future. In th end, it just feels right to have those two secretly at each other’s throats despite fighting on the same side. More than anything, this series greatly developed Destro from a somewhat enigmatic figure into a complex villain with a unique sense of honor. 

Image: Skybound

With that said, Andrei Bressan’s artwork deserves special mention in this explosive final issue. He’s done an excellent job of capturing Destro’s larger-than-life persona throughout the series. The action sequences are kinetic and impactful, with each panel capturing a sense of motion and urgency. Then beyond the action, Bressan’s talent for subtle expression adds depth to the characters. Even with Destro’s metal face, a shift in his eyes or how he smirks speaks volumes, enriching the storytelling and perfectly complementing Watters' script.

With the G.I. Joe main series on the horizon, this miniseries has positioned Destro as a major player and I’m eager to see where his story goes from here. The final pages of this comic tease big things for both him and Cobra Commander, which will send huge waves throughout the Energon Universe. It’s incredible that even after over a year of killer releases, Skybound and its roster of amazing creators are still keeping things fresh and exciting to follow. 

Image: Skybound

Final Thoughts

Destro #5 wraps up the miniseries with a perfect blend of high-stakes action and campy villainy, firmly establishing Destro as a major force in the Energon Universe. While the series had a slow start, each issue quickly proved why Destro remains a fantastic villain who demands your attention. The finale not only concludes his saga but also sets the stage for even bigger things to come for the G.I. Joe and the rest of the Energon Universe.

For longtime G.I. Joe fans, Destro offers an exciting take on a beloved villain, adding depth while staying true to his core appeal. For newcomers, it serves as an excellent introduction to G.I. Joe’s complex world, blending military action, sci-fi elements, and compelling character arcs. So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious, Destro #5 and the entire series offer a thrilling ride well worth your time.

Why You Should Read Destro

• It showcases one of G.I. Joe’s most iconic villains in all his devious glory, adding new depth to a classic character.
• The series blends campy fun with cutthroat action, hitting the perfect tone for modern G.I. Joe stories.
• It sets up exciting developments for future G.I. Joe stories in the Energon Universe, making it essential reading for fans.