Solitaire Masters

One of the fascinating aspects of tabletop skirmish play is the freedom to adapt and reinterpret miniatures from other worlds into established systems. Long before official expansions existed for every theme, hobbyists were creating their own rules, borrowing inspiration from comics, films, and even toy lines. Among the many properties that have crossed over into the realm of skirmish gaming, few spark the imagination quite like the characters of G.I. Joe. With their rich blend of military archetypes, unique personalities, and iconic gear, these figures translate surprisingly well into a ruleset designed for small-scale, narrative-driven combat.

Necromunda, with its emphasis on customization, stat lines, and progression, provides a natural framework for this sort of creative crossover. The gritty environment of the Underhive might at first seem like an odd backdrop for elite operatives such as Snake-Eyes, Scarlett, or Storm Shadow, but the parallels quickly emerge. Both worlds deal in covert missions, tactical firefights, ambushes, and duels where individual prowess can tip the balance of an entire encounter. By using Necromunda’s stat system as a foundation, hobbyists have found a way to breathe new life into their 28mm G.I. Joe miniatures and integrate them seamlessly into ongoing campaigns.

What makes this endeavor especially compelling is the balance between fidelity to the characters’ source material and the need to fit them into a rules framework that prioritizes fairness and tactical variety. Snake-Eyes, for instance, is known for his unmatched martial arts skills, stealth, and mastery of unconventional weapons. Translating those traits into Necromunda mechanics requires careful attention to combat skills, initiative values, and access to specialized gear. In contrast, Lifeline, a non-combat medic, introduces an entirely different flavor to the skirmish setting—one where survival, support, and equipment play as important a role as shooting and swordplay.

The act of converting these characters is not just about assigning numbers to attributes. It is an exercise in storytelling through mechanics. A character with a high Weapon Skill and specialized close-combat abilities isn’t simply stronger on paper; they embody the essence of a silent infiltrator or a deadly assassin. A miniature equipped with medical gear and defensive skills doesn’t just patch up wounds mechanically—it reflects a philosophy of battlefield support and moral restraint. In this way, every profile becomes a miniature narrative, a bridge between the familiar world of G.I. Joe and the unpredictable chaos of Necromunda.

Another reason G.I. Joe figures integrate so well is the variety within the roster itself. Unlike some franchises where characters blur together, the Joe team and their Cobra adversaries are defined by their individuality. Scarlett isn’t just another soldier; she carries throwing weapons, agility, and resilience that set her apart from her comrades. Beachhead embodies the rugged commando archetype, prepared with sidearms and specialized munitions to handle almost any ambush. Snow Job brings the flavor of an arctic survivalist, while Storm Shadow represents the archetypal nemesis—deadly, elusive, and unforgettable. The diversity of roles within the G.I. Joe universe provides a wide canvas for hobbyists to explore, ensuring that every model feels distinct and every game scenario carries a spark of unpredictability.

The stat lines themselves, once transposed into the game, create their own sort of alternate continuity. Within the Underhive, Snake-Eyes isn’t the silent hero of Saturday morning cartoons; he is a stealthy infiltrator moving between collapsed spires and chemical wastes, blades drawn in the half-light of flickering lamps. Scarlett becomes a figure of resilience, darting through ruined manufactorums and reclaiming ground against gangs who underestimate her skill. Lifeline, usually far removed from the fray, finds himself a critical presence in the brutal urban sprawl, where the difference between victory and annihilation can hinge on a single medic’s intervention. Storm Shadow, stripped of his original allegiance, could just as easily emerge as a rogue agent, aligning with whichever gang or faction suits his secretive purposes.

By reimagining these characters in this way, hobbyists create campaigns that blur the line between fan tribute and inventive world-building. The ruleset becomes a framework, but the imagination fills the gaps. Suddenly, skirmishes are no longer just between nameless gangs of the Underhive but between recognizable operatives whose reputations precede them. The stakes feel higher because the players already carry years of association with these characters. Every dice roll, every injury, and every desperate charge carries with it the weight of narrative significance.

What further enriches this exercise is the conversation it sparks among hobbyists. Sharing custom stat lines, discussing balance, and refining skill choices transforms the process into a communal act of creativity. One player might emphasize Snake-Eyes’ acrobatic feats with catfall and evasion, while another might argue for a stronger representation of his marksmanship. Debates emerge over whether Lifeline should even carry a firearm, given his non-violent philosophy, or whether Storm Shadow should gain access to infiltration traits unavailable to standard gangers. These discussions highlight the dual goals of accuracy and playability, two poles that hobbyists constantly navigate.

Of course, the exercise isn’t without challenges. Translating characters from a modern military background into a pseudo-feudal, dystopian science fiction setting requires a certain flexibility of imagination. The weapons of G.I. Joe—bows, grenades, pistols, and even advanced experimental devices—need reinterpretation within the categories of Necromunda’s arsenal. Equipment choices must reflect not only the original character but also the constraints of the rules. This creative translation becomes part of the fun, as players search for the perfect equivalents that capture the spirit without breaking the balance.

There is also the question of tone. G.I. Joe, while at times gritty, has always contained a sense of pulp adventure and comic-book flair. Necromunda, on the other hand, thrives on grimdark atmosphere, where life is cheap and survival is tenuous. Merging the two requires finding a middle ground where the Joes can retain their colorful individuality while still belonging to the bleak sprawl of the Underhive. The resulting blend is neither pure parody nor rigid adaptation—it is something unique, a creative collision that produces its own stories and surprises.

In practice, a session involving these characters becomes more than just a test of dice and tactics. It becomes a stage where iconic personalities are reimagined within new circumstances. Imagine Snake-Eyes silently stalking across a gantry to confront a rival leader, or Beachhead exchanging fire with a horde of scavengers in the glow of burning promethium barrels. Picture Scarlett using her agility to leap through collapsing terrain, or Snow Job setting explosive charges in an ice-choked dome where heat is as much an enemy as any rival gang. These scenarios breathe life into miniatures that might otherwise remain static on display shelves.

For many, this is the heart of the hobby: the fusion of creativity, craft, and storytelling. The models themselves are already works of art, but by weaving them into rulesets and campaigns, they become characters in an unfolding saga. The dice rolls are not just random numbers—they are the unpredictable turns of fate in a narrative that belongs equally to the players and the worlds they love. And as new profiles for Cobra adversaries are introduced, the possibilities only expand. Battles take on new intensity as classic rivalries are reenacted under the flickering neon of Necromunda’s ruined spires, ensuring that no game is ever just another skirmish.

This is the beginning of a series that dives deeper into the adaptation process, the choices behind the stats, and the way these characters interact with the larger setting. Each part offers another layer of exploration, not only into the mechanics but also into the imaginative leaps that make such crossovers so engaging. In the next sections, the focus will turn toward individual character breakdowns, the philosophy of balance, and the broader implications of integrating outside themes into established skirmish systems.

Character Profiles in the Underhive

When adapting outside properties into a skirmish system, the central challenge lies in preserving character identity while working within a framework built for balance and progression. Each miniature must not only feel mechanically distinct but also recognizable as the figure it represents. With the G.I. Joe conversions into Necromunda, this process becomes particularly rewarding, because the characters are already defined by sharp archetypes. Snake-Eyes is not simply another fighter; he is an icon. Scarlett isn’t just a soldier; she is a blend of agility and precision. Every profile carries decades of fictional weight, and translating that into numbers and keywords is an act of both homage and invention.

What follows is a closer look at the first wave of adapted profiles—Snake-Eyes, Scarlett, Lifeline, Snow Job, Storm Shadow, and Beachhead. Each represents a unique design approach, a balancing act between narrative faithfulness and skirmish gameplay.

Snake-Eyes – The Silent Assassin

Few characters from the G.I. Joe universe are as instantly recognizable as Snake-Eyes. His very presence demands a profile that emphasizes agility, combat mastery, and stealth. In Necromunda terms, this means investing in high Weapon Skill, strong Initiative, and an arsenal of skills that make him a terror in close quarters.

The chosen abilities—Combat Master, Evade, Catfall, Sneak Up, True Grit, and Feint—paint a picture of a warrior who moves like a shadow and strikes with precision. Combat Master allows him to thrive when surrounded, while Evade and Catfall reflect his uncanny agility in dodging attacks and navigating vertical terrain. Sneak Up ensures his approach remains undetected, keeping opponents guessing, while True Grit reflects the near-mythic resilience that has kept him alive across countless missions. Feint, meanwhile, embodies his tactical cunning in the heat of melee.

His equipment choices—sword, autopistol, smoke grenades, and blindsnake—underscore the versatility of his toolkit. The sword is his signature, the autopistol provides ranged backup, and the grenades extend his stealth tactics into battlefield control. The blindsnake inclusion adds flavor, a nod to his unconventional arsenal. On the table, Snake-Eyes feels like a true specialist: deadly up close, elusive at range, and always capable of turning a situation to his advantage.

Scarlett – The Agile Operative

Scarlett occupies a different niche within the team. Where Snake-Eyes overwhelms through martial dominance, Scarlett embodies speed, dexterity, and precision. Her stat line leans toward balance rather than extremes, but her skills—Sneak Up, Catfall, and Combat Master—ensure she is rarely caught off guard.

Scarlett’s equipment reflects her resourceful nature. The needle pistol provides a sleek, lightweight ranged option, while the throwing discus offers an unusual but thematic twist, highlighting her adaptability and flair. These choices aren’t about raw damage output so much as representing her unconventional battlefield role. Scarlett plays as a fast, unpredictable fighter who thrives on movement, slipping past opponents and striking where least expected.

Her presence in a campaign is significant beyond her raw numbers. She embodies a different tactical philosophy from the brawlers and heavy gunners of Necromunda gangs. She shows that finesse and flexibility can compete with brute force, provided the player is willing to take risks and think laterally.

Lifeline – The Reluctant Combatant

Lifeline’s inclusion within a Necromunda context is perhaps the most daring. Unlike the others, he is not a warrior by trade but a medic. His pacifist tendencies in the original lore raise immediate questions about how to represent him fairly on the tabletop. The solution here was to emphasize support over offense.

His skills—Step Aside and Disarm—are defensive in nature, allowing him to survive encounters without needing to inflict heavy damage. Step Aside reflects his ability to avoid blows, while Disarm provides a means of neutralizing opponents without relying on lethal force. These mechanics subtly reinforce his role as someone who survives by minimizing harm rather than escalating it.

The medikit is his defining piece of equipment. In a campaign, having access to medical support can dramatically alter the tempo of battles. Lifeline isn’t there to win fights; he’s there to keep allies alive. His stat line reflects this balance, competent enough to survive but never threatening to overshadow the dedicated combatants.

Narratively, Lifeline adds richness to the roster. In the bleak setting of the Underhive, a character who resists the pull of constant violence introduces an unexpected thematic contrast. Players must adapt their strategies to protect him while making use of his invaluable utility.

Snow Job – The Survivalist

Snow Job is a specialist defined by environment. Translating an arctic survivalist into the heat and grime of Necromunda requires imagination, but his toolkit and resilience still shine through. His stat line is steady and dependable, reflecting his ability to endure.

The skill choices—True Grit and Leap—make him versatile in movement and survivability. True Grit allows him to withstand the punishing attrition of the Underhive, while Leap provides a means of rapid repositioning, echoing his expertise in difficult terrain.

His equipment—autopistol, frag grenades, and melta bomb—marks him as a flexible operative. The grenades give him area denial, the melta bomb provides high-impact utility against structures or armored targets, and the autopistol covers his ranged needs. In play, Snow Job is the archetypal “jack of all trades,” capable of adapting to a wide range of challenges.

More than his mechanics, Snow Job introduces a thematic edge. His presence suggests stories of frozen domes, collapsed cooling stations, or missions into chemically frozen wastes. He pulls the setting outward, hinting at environments and challenges beyond the usual gang skirmishes.

Storm Shadow – The Rival

Every hero needs a nemesis, and for Snake-Eyes, that role is forever embodied in Storm Shadow. His stat line mirrors Snake-Eyes in many ways, emphasizing combat skill and initiative, but his skill set highlights infiltration and ruthless aggression.

Abilities like Infiltration, Combat Master, Sprint, Killer Reputation, Evade, Counter Attack, and Catfall ensure that Storm Shadow is both deadly and difficult to pin down. Where Snake-Eyes embodies precision and resilience, Storm Shadow thrives on aggression and momentum. Sprint and Infiltration allow him to dictate the pace of engagements, while Killer Reputation makes his very presence intimidating.

His arsenal—a one-in-a-million bow, sword, throwing discus, photon flash flare, filter plugs, and grapnel—cements his role as a versatile and unpredictable threat. The bow is an inspired choice, offering both narrative flair and mechanical distinctiveness. The flare and grapnel enhance his infiltration theme, providing creative tactical opportunities in vertical, urban environments.

In gameplay terms, Storm Shadow serves as both foil and equal. Whenever he appears, he raises the stakes. Whether allied with Cobra forces or acting independently, his presence turns encounters into duels of skill and cunning.

Beachhead – The Hardline Commando

Beachhead represents a different type of soldier altogether. He is not a shadowy infiltrator or agile operative but a determined commando who thrives in straightforward, aggressive tactics. His stat line reflects solid competence across the board, with Leadership as a notable strength.

His single skill, Ambush, is telling. Beachhead is designed not for subtlety but for striking hard at the right moment. He waits, sets traps, and punishes overconfidence. This makes him a natural counterweight to more mobile enemies.

His weaponry—a one-in-a-million stub-gun with dum-dum bullets and a weapon reload—illustrates his pragmatic, prepared nature. While not as flashy as a bow or as exotic as a throwing discus, his loadout emphasizes reliability and sustained presence. In campaigns, Beachhead may not have the sheer flair of Snake-Eyes or Storm Shadow, but his consistency makes him indispensable.

Balancing Character Identity with Gameplay

What ties all of these profiles together is the careful negotiation between character identity and mechanical fairness. In designing these stat lines, the priority was not to create unstoppable heroes but to ensure that each miniature feels distinct and true to its origins. Snake-Eyes must feel like Snake-Eyes; Lifeline must feel like Lifeline. Yet they must also remain playable within the Necromunda framework, where every miniature contributes to the ebb and flow of tactical engagements.

This balance is achieved by emphasizing differentiation rather than superiority. Snake-Eyes and Storm Shadow are undeniably powerful, but their strengths are offset by situational weaknesses. Scarlett thrives in agility but lacks raw damage output. Lifeline contributes through support rather than combat. Snow Job offers versatility but never overshadows specialists. Beachhead embodies reliability, not flashiness.

By designing within these parameters, the profiles invite players to think creatively about how to use each figure. The diversity of roles ensures that a campaign featuring these miniatures will not devolve into repetitive encounters but instead highlight a range of tactical possibilities.

Storytelling Through Mechanics

Ultimately, what makes these profiles more than just numbers is the storytelling embedded within them. Every skill and piece of equipment tells a story. Snake-Eyes’ smoke grenades conjure images of sudden disappearances in the heat of combat. Scarlett’s discus suggests a daring throw across a ruined gantry. Lifeline’s medikit becomes a beacon of hope in a grim setting. Snow Job’s melta bomb hints at desperate sabotage missions. Storm Shadow’s grapnel evokes cinematic infiltrations across the vertical sprawl. Beachhead’s reload speaks of preparation for drawn-out firefights.

These moments are not scripted but emerge organically from play. They remind us that the act of adapting miniatures is not just about mechanics; it is about creating opportunities for stories. When dice rolls align with character identity, the game transcends its ruleset and becomes an act of shared imagination.

As the roster grows and Cobra profiles enter the fold, these dynamics will only deepen. Rivalries will take shape, campaigns will evolve, and the Underhive will become a stage for classic confrontations reborn in new forms. For now, this first wave of characters demonstrates the creative potential of blending established icons with a system designed for tactical and narrative richness. 

Enter Cobra: Shaping the Villains of the Underhive

No narrative feels complete without its opposing forces, and in the world of G.I. Joe, the conflict has always been defined by the shadowy organization known as Cobra. The rivalry between the Joe team and their Cobra adversaries has provided decades of stories, giving shape to characters who are as colorful, distinctive, and memorable as their heroic counterparts. Translating Cobra into the mechanics of Necromunda opens the door to even more vibrant campaigns. It introduces the essential element of opposition, ensuring that Snake-Eyes, Scarlett, and the others are not merely testing themselves against nameless gangs, but confronting villains whose presence amplifies the stakes.

Designing Cobra for the Underhive requires more than simply assigning comparable stats. It calls for an understanding of Cobra’s unique philosophy: secrecy, manipulation, and ruthlessness. Where the Joes operate as a cohesive team bound by loyalty and mission, Cobra thrives on hierarchy, ideology, and calculated chaos. These differences must be reflected in how their miniatures play.

Why Cobra Fits Naturally into Necromunda

The Underhive is already a place of corruption, betrayal, and violence. In many ways, Cobra feels at home in such an environment. They are not merely enemies from outside the system; they are a faction that could plausibly exist within the sprawl. Cobra’s penchant for using technology, propaganda, and mercenary fighters maps easily onto Necromunda’s themes of exploitation and survival.

Cobra operatives can be imagined as agents embedded in the domes, manipulating local gangs, smuggling weapons, or pursuing arcane experiments. This creates campaign opportunities that feel organic. A Joe team might discover that a seemingly ordinary conflict between gangs is, in fact, being orchestrated by Cobra to destabilize the region. Or perhaps Cobra has occupied a dome outright, using it as a staging ground for their schemes. These narrative hooks reinforce why including Cobra in the game isn’t simply fan service—it enriches the storytelling potential of the system.

The Cobra Archetypes

Just as the Joes are built around distinct archetypes, Cobra’s roster includes a wide variety of roles that translate well into skirmish mechanics. Some characters function as direct rivals to specific Joes, while others bring unique capabilities that shift the dynamics of play.

• Cobra Commander: The mastermind and ideological leader. Mechanically, he fits as a high-Leadership figure, less about personal combat prowess and more about command and manipulation. His skills would lean toward rallying allies, intimidating foes, and bending circumstances to his will.

• Destro: The arms dealer and tactician. His stat line would balance combat effectiveness with equipment-based advantages, perhaps granting unique access to superior or experimental weaponry.

• Baroness: The spy and strategist. Her profile would emphasize infiltration, deception, and information control, making her less about brute strength and more about tactical disruption.

• Storm Shadow (Cobra-aligned): Already covered in earlier discussions, but it’s worth noting that his loyalties in canon shift, allowing for campaigns where his role changes dramatically.

• Cobra Troopers: The rank-and-file. Individually weaker than Joes, but dangerous in numbers, especially with coordinated firepower and tactical support.

• Specialists (e.g., Firefly, Zartan, Major Bludd): Each of these figures embodies a niche. Firefly could excel in sabotage, Zartan in disguise, and Major Bludd in ruthless ranged combat.

By designing these archetypes carefully, Cobra becomes more than just a mirror to the Joes. They become a fully realized force with their own playstyle and thematic identity.

The Importance of Adversaries in Campaign Play

Skirmish campaigns thrive when they are more than a series of disconnected battles. They work best when the players feel invested in ongoing rivalries and when victories and defeats carry narrative weight. By introducing Cobra, campaign play shifts from abstract gang warfare to a story-driven struggle between ideologies and personalities.

For instance, a campaign could begin with Joes uncovering hints of Cobra’s presence in the Underhive. Early missions might involve ambushes by Cobra Troopers or sabotage attempts led by Firefly. As the campaign progresses, higher-ranking Cobra leaders appear, culminating in direct confrontations with figures like Destro or Cobra Commander. This progression mirrors the structure of a narrative arc, where tension builds toward a climactic showdown.

The mechanical representation of these villains ensures that battles are not just about stat lines but about identity. Facing Cobra Commander is not the same as fighting a generic gang leader. His presence changes the psychological landscape of the game, just as his charisma alters the battlefield.

Translating Cobra into Necromunda Mechanics

The real challenge lies in converting Cobra characters into meaningful profiles. This involves balancing three factors: authenticity, playability, and variety.

1. Authenticity means that Cobra characters must feel like themselves. Destro must command respect through his gear and tactical sense. Baroness must inspire images of espionage and cunning. If they play like generic fighters, the translation fails.

2. Playability ensures that these characters don’t break the game. Snake-Eyes might be deadly, but if every Cobra operative was built at his level, balance would collapse. Troopers must remain vulnerable, commanders must rely on strategy, and specialists must shine in particular niches rather than universally.

3. Variety is the key to replayability. Just as no two Joes feel alike, Cobra figures should provide unique challenges. One battle might focus on stealth and infiltration, while another is a slugfest against overwhelming numbers. Variety ensures that campaigns remain fresh.

A good example is Firefly. His reputation as a saboteur translates into access to demolition gear, traps, and stealth skills. On the tabletop, he might not dominate in open combat, but his ability to reshape terrain or ambush opponents creates entirely new tactical puzzles. Contrast that with Major Bludd, whose emphasis on ranged firepower would demand different counters.

Cobra Troopers: The Backbone of the Faction

While the iconic leaders and specialists attract the spotlight, Cobra Troopers are essential to grounding the faction. They serve as the bulk of the enemy forces, providing the Joes with opponents who are both numerous and dangerous in coordinated groups.

Mechanically, they should not be overly strong on an individual level. Their stat lines should reflect average combatants, vulnerable when isolated but formidable when supported. Their strength lies in synergy: overlapping fields of fire, suppressive tactics, and sheer numerical pressure. This ensures that even a squad of elite Joes cannot simply wade through Cobra forces without thought.

In campaigns, Cobra Troopers provide the continuity. They are the ever-present threat, appearing in early missions, recurring throughout the story, and forming the backbone of larger battles. Leaders may come and go, but Troopers remind players that Cobra is not defined by individuals alone but by the weight of an organization.

Rivalries and Thematic Encounters

The most exciting aspect of adapting Cobra lies in the rivalries that emerge. These aren’t just mechanical matchups; they are thematic duels rooted in decades of storytelling. Snake-Eyes versus Storm Shadow becomes the iconic confrontation, a battle of mirrors that can erupt at any point in a campaign. Scarlett versus Baroness provides a clash of personalities, skill sets, and ideologies. Destro and Beachhead might trade blows not just as fighters but as representatives of pragmatism versus idealism.

By weaving these rivalries into the campaign structure, players experience battles that feel larger than the sum of their parts. Victories and defeats matter not only for progression but for narrative satisfaction. Every rematch, every duel, and every narrow escape adds to the growing saga unfolding at the table.

Expanding Campaign Themes

One of the benefits of introducing Cobra is the ability to broaden the themes explored in campaign play. Standard Necromunda games often revolve around resources, territory, and survival. With Cobra, new narrative motivations appear. Missions might focus on:

• Preventing Cobra from deploying experimental technology.

• Rescuing civilians or allies captured in the domes.

• Sabotaging supply chains or propaganda networks.

• Tracking and neutralizing infiltrators disguised within local gangs.

• Uncovering the identity of traitors who secretly serve Cobra.

These scenarios push the campaign beyond simple skirmishes and into more narrative-driven play. They provide context for why the Joes are present in the Underhive at all and why their struggle matters.

The Tone of Cobra in the Underhive

Cobra’s introduction also affects the tone of the setting. Necromunda, by default, leans into grimdark despair. G.I. Joe, while often serious, carries a pulp-like energy. Cobra bridges these tones. They are ruthless enough to fit into the Underhive but theatrical enough to maintain the larger-than-life feel of G.I. Joe. This tonal balance allows players to enjoy both the gritty tactical side of Necromunda and the cinematic drama of G.I. Joe storytelling.

In practical terms, this means Cobra encounters can be both deadly serious and delightfully over-the-top. One mission might involve tense stealth maneuvers in toxic ruins; another might feature a flamboyant Cobra scheme involving doomsday devices and dramatic speeches. The oscillation between these tones keeps campaigns dynamic.

Building Toward Larger Conflicts

Cobra’s presence naturally escalates campaigns toward larger conflicts. Early games may pit small Joe squads against handfuls of Troopers. Over time, as players accumulate victories and failures, the scale increases. Specialists like Firefly or Zartan appear, introducing new tactical wrinkles. Eventually, the campaign culminates in set-piece battles involving Cobra Commanders or major objectives.

This progression mirrors narrative arcs in comics or animation, where small skirmishes gradually build toward world-threatening schemes. It ensures campaigns feel like journeys, with each game contributing to a larger narrative.

Campaigns, Missions, and Narrative Scenarios

Skirmish systems thrive not just on one-off encounters but on campaigns that give continuity, growth, and meaning to each battle. When G.I. Joe and Cobra are introduced into Necromunda, the campaign layer becomes even richer, offering opportunities to tell long-form stories where rivalries develop, territories shift, and individual characters leave lasting marks. The dice, terrain, and miniatures become more than game pieces; they become elements of an unfolding drama.

Designing campaigns that incorporate these iconic figures requires a blend of structure and flexibility. Structure provides clear progression, while flexibility ensures that the unexpected outcomes of dice rolls can influence the story. Below, we explore how to construct such campaigns, the types of missions that fit naturally, and the narrative arcs that bring the Joes and Cobra to life in the Underhive.

The Campaign Framework

At its core, a campaign is a sequence of linked battles. In standard Necromunda, this often revolves around gangs fighting for territory, reputation, and resources. When G.I. Joe and Cobra are added, the framework shifts toward narrative-driven objectives. Instead of gangs vying for turf, players are engaged in missions that serve a larger story.

A campaign might unfold across three stages:

1. Discovery – The Joes arrive in the Underhive, uncovering signs of Cobra activity. Early missions involve reconnaissance, ambushes, and small-scale skirmishes against Cobra Troopers.

2. Escalation – As evidence of Cobra’s presence grows, the battles intensify. Specialists such as Firefly, Baroness, or Zartan appear, creating unique tactical puzzles. Cobra begins manipulating local gangs, spreading their influence, and securing territory.

3. Confrontation – The campaign culminates in high-stakes missions involving Cobra Commanders or large-scale objectives. These battles are cinematic in scope, often involving multiple victory conditions and dramatic twists.

This structure mirrors narrative arcs in comics and animation, ensuring the campaign feels like a story rather than a series of disconnected games.

Mission Types for G.I. Joe vs. Cobra

Missions are the lifeblood of campaigns. Each one should reflect the flavor of the conflict while offering tactical variety. Below are mission archetypes tailored to the Joe–Cobra dynamic.

1. Sabotage Operations
   • The Joes must infiltrate a facility and plant charges, while Cobra defenders scramble to prevent destruction.

   • Firefly excels here as an antagonist, turning the tables with traps and counter-demolitions.

   • Success or failure determines whether Cobra loses resources or gains new footholds.

2. Hostage Rescue
   • Civilians or allies have been captured by Cobra. The Joes must locate and free them before time runs out.

   • Baroness or Zartan could serve as captors, complicating the mission with infiltration or disguise tactics.

   • Outcomes influence morale: saving hostages earns long-term bonuses, while failure grants Cobra propaganda victories.

3. Ambush in the Ruins
   • Cobra sets a trap. The Joes must escape the battlefield while under heavy fire.

   • Troopers form the bulk of opposition, but a specialist like Major Bludd provides leadership.

   • This mission emphasizes survival and retreat rather than direct victory.

4. Assassination Attempt
   • Cobra sends operatives to eliminate a key Joe leader.

   • The mission flips perspectives, putting the Joes on the defensive while Cobra infiltrators attempt precision strikes.

   • If successful, Cobra weakens leadership morale; if failed, the Joes gain momentum.

5. Data Retrieval
   • Both sides race to secure vital intelligence hidden in an abandoned dome.

   • The mission involves exploration, hacking, and defending points of interest.

   • Destro might appear here, providing technological superiority.

6. Showdown Duel
   • Certain rivalries demand direct confrontation. Snake-Eyes and Storm Shadow might duel amidst larger chaos, or Scarlett might face Baroness.

   • While the broader battle rages, the duel becomes the narrative centerpiece.

   • The duel’s outcome doesn’t end the mission but influences future scenarios (e.g., injured characters missing next games).

7. Final Stand
   • As the climax of a campaign, Cobra launches an all-out offensive or the Joes attempt a desperate infiltration.

   • Multiple objectives exist simultaneously: disabling defenses, defeating commanders, and surviving waves of reinforcements.

   • This mission should feel cinematic, leaving players with a sense of closure.

Narrative Tools for Campaign Play

One of the great strengths of skirmish gaming is how the rules encourage emergent storytelling. A stray dice roll, a critical injury, or a failed leadership test can change the trajectory of a campaign. With G.I. Joe and Cobra, these moments take on new weight, as players already carry emotional connections to the characters.

To enhance narrative depth, several tools can be used:

• Persistent Injuries: A scarred Snake-Eyes or a wounded Destro carries story weight. These injuries are not just penalties but character-defining events.

• Shifting Loyalties: Characters like Storm Shadow are famous for changing sides. A campaign mechanic could allow certain outcomes to trigger allegiance shifts.

• Secret Objectives: Cobra often thrives on hidden agendas. Assigning players secret goals creates tension and paranoia within the campaign.

• Escalating Stakes: As missions progress, the consequences should grow. A failed rescue might embolden Cobra, while a successful sabotage could cripple their operations.

These tools ensure that the campaign doesn’t just move forward mechanically but evolves narratively in response to play.

Scenario Hooks and Story Seeds

Beyond structured missions, campaigns benefit from open-ended story seeds that players can expand upon. Here are a few thematic ideas:

• The Dome of Lost Technology: Rumors spread of ancient machinery hidden in a collapsed dome. Cobra wants it for weapons development; the Joes seek to prevent catastrophe.

• The Infiltrated Gang: A local gang unknowingly works for Cobra. The Joes must expose the truth, but fighting the gang risks alienating potential allies.

• The Disguised Operative: Zartan infiltrates the campaign disguised as a civilian or ally. His true identity is revealed only after certain conditions are met.

• The Propaganda War: Cobra spreads lies across the Underhive, painting the Joes as invaders. Missions revolve around countering misinformation and winning hearts.

• The Doomsday Device: A classic Cobra plot—an experimental weapon hidden deep within the spires. The campaign builds toward preventing its activation.

Each seed can be expanded into multiple missions, with branching outcomes depending on victories and defeats.

Campaign Progression and Rewards

Rewards in a campaign should feel both mechanical and narrative. Victories might grant resources, better gear, or morale bonuses. Failures might impose penalties, limit access to equipment, or embolden Cobra.

For G.I. Joe and Cobra, progression can also be thematic. Snake-Eyes might unlock new combat skills as he hones his rivalry with Storm Shadow. Baroness might gain influence, allowing her to manipulate neutral factions. Lifeline might become more effective as a medic after multiple rescues. These narrative-driven advancements keep players invested in the ongoing saga.

Importantly, rewards should reinforce character identity. Rather than generic upgrades, progression should highlight the traits that make each figure unique. This ensures that by the end of the campaign, the characters feel transformed not just mechanically but narratively.

Building Cinematic Campaigns

Perhaps the most exciting part of integrating G.I. Joe into Necromunda is the potential for cinematic campaigns. These are campaigns where battles are staged not only for tactical depth but for narrative spectacle. Terrain becomes storytelling; missions become episodes in a larger arc.

Imagine a campaign where the Joes infiltrate a dome filled with collapsing machinery, pursued by Cobra through flickering corridors. Picture Snake-Eyes and Storm Shadow clashing atop a rusted gantry while grenades detonate below. Envision Baroness manipulating propaganda to turn entire sectors against the Joes, forcing them to fight both Cobra and misled civilians.

These scenarios bring the spirit of G.I. Joe into the grimdark of Necromunda, blending pulp heroics with desperate survival. The result is a campaign that feels alive, one that players will talk about long after the final dice roll.

The Broader Significance of Narrative Play

Stepping back, the integration of G.I. Joe and Cobra into Necromunda highlights the broader appeal of narrative skirmish gaming. Rulesets are frameworks, but it is the imagination of players that breathes life into miniatures. By adapting beloved characters, players deepen their connection to the game, investing emotionally in outcomes that might otherwise be abstract.

This approach also demonstrates how adaptable tabletop gaming can be. It shows that the line between official canon and fan creativity is porous. With a little imagination, any character, theme, or universe can find a home within a skirmish system. For G.I. Joe fans, this means the chance to relive classic rivalries in a new medium. For Necromunda players, it means fresh scenarios and story arcs that expand the possibilities of the Underhive.

Final Thoughts

Bringing G.I. Joe and Cobra into Necromunda is more than just a set of house rules or custom stat lines. It’s an experiment in imagination, a way of bridging two very different worlds and discovering how they complement each other. Necromunda provides a flexible framework of gritty, street-level skirmishes, while G.I. Joe offers a cast of iconic heroes and villains whose personalities are instantly recognizable. Together, they create a hybrid that feels both fresh and familiar, equal parts tactical challenge and nostalgic storytelling.

Across this series, we explored the foundations of adapting the system, the profiles of key Joe operatives, the unique flavor of Cobra specialists, and the shape of campaigns that turn one-off battles into ongoing sagas. What emerges is a vision of gaming that values creativity as much as mechanics. It’s not about winning or losing in the strictest sense, but about telling stories—stories where Snake-Eyes and Storm Shadow duel in the shadows of the Underhive, where Baroness spins webs of deception, and where ordinary dice rolls produce extraordinary moments.

The greatest strength of this approach lies in how it personalizes play. Every skirmish becomes a chapter in a larger narrative. Every injury, every victory, and every close call leaves its mark on the campaign. The Joes and Cobra are not just miniatures on the table; they are characters evolving through each encounter, carrying scars, rivalries, and triumphs forward. That sense of continuity transforms a handful of games into an unfolding drama that players remember long after the campaign ends.

Ultimately, blending G.I. Joe with Necromunda is a reminder of what makes tabletop skirmish gaming so enduring: the freedom to experiment, to reshape settings, and to build stories that belong entirely to the players at the table. Whether you lean into cinematic heroics or grimdark survival, whether your campaigns end in Cobra dominance or Joe resilience, the journey itself is the reward.

In the end, these games become more than rules and miniatures. They become vessels for imagination—playgrounds where nostalgia meets creativity, and where every dice roll has the power to decide the fate of heroes, villains, and the stories we tell through them.