: Cobra Commander uses intelligence stolen from NASA to launch a surprise attack on the USS Flagg . By seizing control of the G.I. Joe satellite network, Cobra generates a "Blackout Sphere"—a global EMP that disables all electrical equipment worldwide except for Cobra's own assets.
: The story ends on a classic cliffhanger; as the Joes celebrate their hard-won victory, Roadblock and Mainframe receive an alert of a brand-new Cobra threat, ensuring the conflict remains eternal. G.I. Joe: Operation Blackout [CODEX]
: With the world's militaries paralyzed, Cobra forces defeat the G.I. Joe strike team globally. Many Joes, including leader Duke , are captured, leaving the remaining team fractured and on the run. Internal Strife and the Resistance : Cobra Commander uses intelligence stolen from NASA
: Scattered survivors like Scarlett, Roadblock, and Snake Eyes must regroup and find "The Mold," a critical relic needed to neutralize the Blackout Sphere. They eventually fight to recapture the USS Flagg and infiltrate Cobra’s headquarters. Ending and Legacy : The story ends on a classic cliffhanger;
The story of follows a rare timeline where Cobra actually achieves its ultimate goal of world domination. Told through an 80s-style comic book aesthetic, the narrative splits the experience between Joe and Cobra perspectives across 17 missions. The Fall of G.I. Joe: "C-Day"
See the initial Cobra attack on the USS Flagg and the activation of the Blackout Sphere:
The Joes eventually manage to shut down the device and restore order, but the peace is short-lived.