By Justin Bell and Terry Dizard

Arguably one of the most infamous 80's icons, COBRA Commander is the face of COBRA, and his accurate representation in figure form is something that is vitally important to the success of the Anniversary line as we know it. The hooded version of this leader of COBRA forces came out very well, so it seems a no brainer that the battle helmet version would as well, since it shares most of the same parts.

I am happy to say that yes, the battle helmet version of COBRA Commander does share the success of the hooded version, at least for the most part. From first appearences, the head comes off being a little on the small side, but is still sculpted with very nice detail. The removable helmet with explosive charges in the back of his faceplate is a great homage to both the comic and the cartoon. Hasbro does a very nice job concealing the mid-torso joint in COBRA Commander's twin belts, which makes the figure look very nice, yet still retain much of the functional articulation that the others have. A mid-torso joint would have looked obvious and out of place, so I really like the choice they made putting it in here to blend it into the figure better.

Hasbro was obviously using the cartoon and comic as an influence with the design of this figure as the gloves he wears are long, elaborate ones, not like the short cuff-length gloves he wore in action figure form. One hand is clenched firmly in a fist, which is unusual for a Joe figure, but allows for some dramatic posing for the figure. He holds his familiar "Venom" pistol very well, and it plugs effortlessly into his back.

There is a reduction in mobility at the hip joints like some other figures, which is unfortunate, but it's not as drastic as some, and is fairly easily fixable. What is really important is that the figure feels sturdy, solid, and very durable. The double joint knees bend freely and easily, yet are very well put together, giving you a figure that feels and moves like quality.

Leading his masked troopers on the battlefield, COBRA Commander in his battle helmet is extremely reminiscent of his classic vintage look and makes for a fantastic homage to the most infamous COBRA character of all time.

COBRRAAA!!!

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