If you’re a fan of the iconic franchise because of the epic action figures or the legendary TV series, then the best G.I. Joe games are also worth the time of day.
First dropping back in 1983, these games give you the chance to control some of the most formidable soldiers around in an effort to destroy the opposition known as Cobra.
And while not all G.I. Joe games have been critical successes, several titles have certainly shone brighter than the rest.
Here, we’ll be giving you our top five picks, so you can live out your fantasy as one of the world’s highest skilled operatives and hopefully save the day!
Table of Contents
5. G.I. Joe: Cobra Strike (1983)
First up in our list of the best G.I Joe games is G.I. Joe: Cobra Strike, a nostalgic trip down memory lane and one of the earliest G.I. Joe games!
While it looks archaic by today’s standards, during its time, it provided hours of fun for those who owned this classic console.
You had to prevent Cobra from launching its venomous missiles, showcasing the age-old battle between G.I. Joe and Cobra in a simple yet captivating manner.
The game was criticized quite heavily for its loose tie-in with the franchise but with the limited power of the console, this can be forgiven.
However, contrary to this, its co-op play made this title very fun on the whole, justifying its place as one of the best G.I. Joe games.
If you’re looking to go back to where it all started, Cobra Strike is definitely worth a look!
4. G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra (2009)
Tied in with the movie of the same name, G.I Joe: The Rise of Cobra is the first modern take to make it as one of the best G.I. Joe games.
It’s available on various platforms, from the PlayStation 3 to the Nintendo DS, with the latter being the better reviewed of the lot.
The game captured the essence of the movie while adding its own unique twists, but the console versions didn’t quite grab critics due to its repetition and lack of world fidelity.
With its co-op gameplay though, you can team up as your favorite Joes to take on Cobra, something fans of the franchise will always love.
Additionally, if you’re in the mood for some mindless blasting, G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra offers exactly that.
Looking at the DS version specifically, it’s much more arcadey with its top down camera, and quite frankly, just more fun than its console brothers.
3. G.I. Joe: Operation Blackout (2020)
The most recent addition to the G.I. Joe gaming line-up, G.I Joe: Operation Blackout, takes the third slot in this best G.I. Joe games guide.
This title allows players to experience the G.I. Joe universe from both sides, a feature that hasn’t been explored in any other of the franchise’s titles.
Not only can you play as the heroes, but for the first time, you could step into the shoes of Cobra operatives.
In fact, there are a total of 12 characters that you can control, which is a huge increase compared to other games.
If single player isn’t your thing, you can run through the story cooperatively, allowing a shared experience with another.
What’s more, there’s actually online multiplayer too, the only G.I Joe game to have this.
With its somewhat engaging storyline and updated graphics, Operation Blackout was a relative hit among new fans and nostalgic players alike.
2. G.I. Joe: The Atlantis Factor (1992)
Taking second place in this best G.I. Joe games roundup is G.I. Joe: The Atlantis Factor.
Building on the success of its predecessor on the NES, G.I. Joe: The Atlantis Factor attempted to offer more refined gameplay and a deeper story.
Players could select multiple characters, each with their own unique abilities, and enhance said abilities through item pick ups.
The search for the lost city of Atlantis added an air of mystery, but sadly critics did see fault in its somewhat repetitive nature.
Where it does shine though is with its striking colorful graphics and challenging difficulty, keeping you enthralled for hours on end.
1. G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero (1991)
The results are in; Duke, Hawk, and Scarlet have all decided that G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero is the best G.I Joe game of all time!
This is without a doubt the best of the best when it come to G.I. Joe games as it set the stage for the franchise on the NES, offering side-scrolling action with various characters from the G.I. Joe roster.
The game’s levels were designed around each character’s abilities, requiring players to think strategically about which Joe to use.
Akin to The Atlantis Factor, this title also had stellar graphics for the time, but instead of the gameplay loop being criticized it was praised instead.
Moreover, the soundtrack is up there with the best music on a G.I. Joe game, certainly adding to the enjoyment for many.
Final Thoughts
While the video game adaptations of this beloved franchise have been hit or miss, the best G.I. Joe games listed above should provide enough entertainment.
From 8-bit classics to modern-day adventures, there should be a G.I. Joe experience that’s right up your alley.
If you’re looking for more huge franchises with games tied into them, why not read up on the best Disney games or the best Marvel games on PSP!
Jacob has been an avid handheld enthusiast ever since the original Game Boy was placed in his hand at an early age. From that point, he’s become engrossed in all aspects of gaming, owning most consoles that have been released, and enjoying titles from a wide variety of genres. When he is not playing the latest game releases, he’s spending far too much money modding retro systems.
