Opinion: Underrated G.I. Joes!

 Here's a list of 20 G.I. Joe characters that I feel are underrated or underappreciated! They are not necessarily forgotten characters but the ones who could use a little more love and attention!

• Low-Light
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  Low-Light, also known as Cooper G. MacBride, is a distinctive and often underrated character in the G.I. Joe franchise. First introduced in 1986, Low-Light is a G.I. Joe Night Spotter and Sniper, recognized for his exceptional marksmanship and unparalleled ability to operate in low-light conditions. His distinctive appearance, with a dark hood covering most of his face and a long-range rifle, adds an air of mystery to the character. Low-Light's solitary nature and preference for darkness make him an intriguing and enigmatic member of the team. Despite being less in the spotlight compared to some of his more famous comrades, Low-Light's specialized skills and unique design have earned him a dedicated fan base!

• Sci-Fi
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  Sci-Fi, whose real name is Seymour P. Fine, is a G.I. Joe character known for his expertise in advanced technology and his role as a laser trooper. Introduced in 1986 as part of the G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero toy line and animated series, Sci-Fi quickly became a fan favorite. His distinctive appearance includes a futuristic helmet with a clear visor and a laser rifle, emphasizing his high-tech specialty. Sci-Fi's character is often associated with cutting-edge weaponry and a keen interest in scientific advancements. Despite not always being in the forefront of G.I. Joe narratives, Sci-Fi's contributions to the team are crucial in dealing with Cobra's technological threats. With his passion for innovation and commitment to the fight against Cobra, Sci-Fi remains a notable and underappreciated member of the G.I. Joe roster.

• Stretcher
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  Stretcher, whose real name is Mark W. Trepanier, is a lesser-known but intriguing character in the G.I. Joe universe. Introduced in 1990, Stretcher served as a medic for the G.I. Joe team during the vintage G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero era. What sets Stretcher apart is his non-traditional background for a combat medic, as he was a former emergency medical technician (EMT) before joining the G.I. Joe forces. This unique perspective brings a different dynamic to the team, showcasing the diverse skill sets required in real-world military operations. Stretcher's dedication to saving lives on the battlefield, coupled with his expertise in emergency medical care, adds a layer of realism to the G.I. Joe team. Despite not being as widely recognized as some of his counterparts, Stretcher stands out for his distinctive role as a compassionate and capable field medic within the G.I. Joe ranks.

• Tunnel Rat
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  Tunnel Rat, known as Nicky Lee in his civilian life, is a memorable and underrated character within the G.I. Joe universe. Introduced in 1987 as part of the G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero toy line and animated series, Tunnel Rat quickly gained a fan following for his unique skills and personality. Specializing in urban combat and subterranean operations, Tunnel Rat is an expert in navigating tight spaces and defusing explosive devices. His distinctive appearance, complete with a bandana and protective goggles, reflects his hands-on approach to dangerous missions. Despite his small stature, Tunnel Rat's courage, determination, and resourcefulness make him a valuable asset to the G.I. Joe team. Often overlooked in favor of more prominent characters, Tunnel Rat's contributions in handling unconventional warfare situations make him a standout and memorable member of the G.I. Joe roster. Also is loosely based on Larry Hama.

• Shockwave
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  Shockwave, also known as Samuel Wallace, is a G.I. Joe character introduced in 1988, during the vintage G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero era. He is the G.I. Joe Team's S.W.A.T. specialist. He was the youngest member of the Detroit Police Department S.W.A.T. Team and had two citations for bravery. Despite not always being in the forefront of G.I. Joe storylines, Shockwave's presence and firepower have left a lasting impression on fans, establishing him as a formidable and underrated member of the G.I. Joe team. Over in 'Special Missions', Shockwave leads a hostage rescue attempt when two terrorists take a family hostage in an isolated farmhouse. Shockwave is the one to figure out a potentially deadly error; the Joes had mistaken the innocent father for one of the terrorists because the man had an injury caused a leering smile. The mission ends with the family safe.

• Outback
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  Outback, whose real name is Stuart R. Selkirk, is a G.I. Joe character introduced in 1987 during the vintage G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero era. Hailing from Australia, Outback serves as the G.I. Joe team's survival expert, bringing a unique set of skills to the group. Clad in a distinctive bush hat and equipped with a boomerang and survival gear, Outback is not only a skilled soldier but also an expert in living off the land. His practical knowledge of wilderness survival and his ability to thrive in harsh conditions make him an invaluable asset to the team, especially during missions in challenging environments. Despite not being as prominently featured as some other G.I. Joe characters, Outback's resourcefulness, down-to-earth personality, and distinctive Australian flavor have endeared him to fans, earning him a place as an underrated but beloved member of the G.I. Joe roster.

• Hit & Run
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  Hit & Run, whose real name is Brent Scott, is a G.I. Joe character introduced in 1988 during the vintage G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero era. This character is recognized for his skills as an infantry trooper and his expertise in guerilla warfare tactics. Hit & Run is often depicted wearing a green camouflage suit with a helmet and face paint, emphasizing his role as a stealthy and effective combatant. His primary weapon is a crossbow, showcasing his preference for silent and precise methods of attack. What sets Hit & Run apart is his dedication to hit-and-run tactics, making him a master of ambushes and hit-and-fade maneuvers. Despite not always being in the spotlight, Hit & Run's specialized skills and guerrilla warfare expertise make him an intriguing and underrated member of the G.I. Joe team. His ability to strike swiftly and disappear seamlessly into the battlefield has earned him a place among the unique and diverse characters in the G.I. Joe universe.

• Muskrat
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  Muskrat, whose real name is Ross A. Williams, is a G.I. Joe character introduced in 1988 during the vintage G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero era. Hailing from the bayous of Louisiana, Muskrat serves as the G.I. Joe team's Swamp Fighter and is recognized for his expertise in jungle and swamp environments. His character design reflects his background, featuring a distinctive hat, waders, and a shotgun. Muskrat's specialization in navigating and fighting in swampy terrains makes him a valuable asset for the team, especially during covert missions in challenging landscapes. Despite not being as widely known as some other G.I. Joe characters, Muskrat's unique skills, down-to-earth personality, and dedication to his craft have endeared him to fans. His portrayal as a specialist in unconventional environments adds a layer of diversity to the G.I. Joe team, making Muskrat an underrated but essential member of the roster.

• Law & Order
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  Law & Order is a dynamic duo within the G.I. Joe franchise, consisting of two characters working seamlessly as a team. Introduced in 1987 during the vintage G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero era, Law is the human half of the team, also known as Christopher M. Lavigne, and Order is his loyal canine companion. Together, they form a K-9 unit specializing in law enforcement and tracking. Law, equipped with a riot baton and a submachine gun, is responsible for maintaining order and security, while Order, a highly trained and intelligent canine, assists in tracking and apprehension. The partnership between Law and Order showcases the versatility of the G.I. Joe team, incorporating not only human soldiers with specialized skills but also animal companions that contribute to the overall effectiveness of the unit. Despite the unconventional nature of their roles, Law & Order have become fan favorites for their teamwork, unique dynamic, and the addition of a canine element to the G.I. Joe team. Their inclusion adds a layer of realism to the diverse range of specialties within the G.I. Joe roster.

• Iceberg
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  Iceberg, whose real name is Clifton L. Nash, is a G.I. Joe character introduced in 1986 during the vintage G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero era. As a Cold Weather Soldier, Iceberg specializes in operations in extreme cold climates. His character design reflects his expertise, featuring a distinctive arctic camouflage suit and a fur-lined hood. Iceberg's primary role is to operate in frozen terrains, making him a valuable asset for G.I. Joe missions in polar regions. His skills include survival in harsh weather conditions and proficiency in cold-weather combat tactics. Despite not always being in the forefront of G.I. Joe narratives, Iceberg's specialization brings a unique and essential dimension to the team. Known for his quiet and stoic demeanor, Iceberg is a dedicated and dependable member of the G.I. Joe roster. His portrayal as a specialist in extreme environments adds diversity to the team, showcasing the adaptability of the G.I. Joe forces to various mission requirements. While he may not receive as much attention as some other characters, Iceberg remains an underrated but vital member of the G.I. Joe team.

• Ozone
  
• Ozone, also known as David Kuntz, is a G.I. Joe character introduced in 1991 during the G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero toy line and animated series. As a G.I. Joe Eco-Warrior, Ozone is portrayed as an environmental specialist with a focus on combating ecological threats caused by Cobra. This character reflects a unique shift in the G.I. Joe storyline during the early 1990s when environmental issues gained prominence. Ozone's character design features a distinct eco-friendly uniform, and he is armed with a chemical backpack that can neutralize hazardous substances. His role in the G.I. Joe team highlights a broader awareness of environmental concerns and the need for a specialized force to address these issues within the fictional narrative. While Ozone may not be as well-known as some classic G.I. Joe characters, he represents an interesting chapter in the franchise's evolution, showcasing the team's adaptability to contemporary themes. His emphasis on environmental protection adds a distinctive and forward-thinking element to the G.I. Joe universe, making Ozone an underrated character with a unique role in the team.

• Sneak Peek

• Sneak Peek, whose real name is Owen King, is a G.I. Joe character introduced in 1987 during the vintage G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero era. As the G.I. Joe team's reconnaissance specialist, Sneak Peek is known for his exceptional skills in gathering intelligence and providing valuable information to the team. His character design features a distinctive beret, camouflaged uniform, and a periscope-like device attached to his helmet. Sneak Peek's primary role involves covertly observing enemy movements and relaying critical information back to the G.I. Joe team. Despite not being a front-line combatant, his contributions play a crucial role in the success of various missions by ensuring the team is well-informed and strategically positioned. While Sneak Peek may not be as widely recognized as some of the more action-oriented G.I. Joe characters, his importance as a reconnaissance specialist adds depth to the team's capabilities. His role emphasizes the significance of intelligence gathering and strategic planning, making Sneak Peek an underrated but essential member of the G.I. Joe roster.

• Fast Draw

• Fast Draw, known by his real name as Eliot Brown, is a G.I. Joe character introduced in 1987 during the vintage G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero era. As a Mobile Missile Specialist, Fast Draw is recognized for his expertise in operating and deploying advanced missile systems. His character design includes a distinctive suit with a helmet and a backpack carrying a large missile launcher. Fast Draw's primary role is to provide heavy firepower support for the G.I. Joe team. His proficiency in handling missile systems makes him a valuable asset during intense battles, where precision and firepower are crucial. Despite not always being in the spotlight, Fast Draw's specialization in advanced weaponry showcases the diverse skill set within the G.I. Joe ranks. While he may not be as well-known as some iconic characters, Fast Draw remains an underrated and formidable member of the G.I. Joe team, contributing to the team's effectiveness in dealing with Cobra's various threats. His emphasis on advanced missile technology adds a unique dimension to the G.I. Joe arsenal.

• Backblast
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  Backblast, also known as David P. Lane, is a G.I. Joe character introduced in 1990 during the vintage G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero era. As an Anti-Aircraft Soldier, Backblast is recognized for his expertise in operating and targeting anti-aircraft missile systems. His character design features a distinctive suit, often with a helmet and goggles, and he is armed with a shoulder-fired missile launcher. Backblast's primary role within the G.I. Joe team is to provide defense against aerial threats, making him a crucial asset during battles involving Cobra's airborne assets. His proficiency in anti-aircraft weaponry reflects the G.I. Joe team's adaptability and readiness to counter various threats posed by the enemy. Despite not being as prominently featured as some of the classic G.I. Joe characters, Backblast remains an underrated and essential member of the team. His specialization in anti-aircraft systems adds a strategic layer to the G.I. Joe arsenal, showcasing the team's comprehensive approach to dealing with the diverse capabilities of Cobra forces.

• Repeater
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  Repeater, whose real name is Jeffrey R. Therien, is a G.I. Joe character introduced in 1988 during the vintage G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero era. As the G.I. Joe team's Heavy Machine Gunner, Repeater is known for his expertise in handling and deploying heavy firepower, particularly the M-134 Minigun. His character design often features a distinctive helmet and a powerful, handheld Gatling-style machine gun. Repeater's primary role is to provide sustained and overwhelming firepower during battles, making him an essential asset when facing large numbers of Cobra forces. His proficiency with heavy weapons contributes to the G.I. Joe team's ability to counteract the various threats posed by Cobra. While not always as well-known as some iconic G.I. Joe characters, Repeater's specialization in heavy machine guns showcases the team's adaptability and the importance of diverse skill sets within the ranks. His dedication to delivering overwhelming firepower positions him as an underrated but critical member of the G.I. Joe roster.

• Barrel Roll
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  Barrel Roll, whose real name is Dwight Stall, is a G.I. Joe character introduced in 2001 during the G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero toy line and animated series revival. As an airborne infantryman and expert pilot, Barrel Roll brings a unique skill set to the G.I. Joe team. His character design often includes a distinctive helmet with a built-in visor and a backpack equipped with wings. Barrel Roll's primary role is as a skilled pilot capable of handling various aircraft, and his proficiency in airborne operations makes him a valuable asset during aerial missions. His expertise in reconnaissance and air support contributes to the G.I. Joe team's ability to gather intelligence and conduct strategic operations. While not part of the original vintage G.I. Joe lineup, Barrel Roll adds a modern and specialized element to the team, showcasing the ongoing evolution of the G.I. Joe franchise. His emphasis on airborne operations and aerial combat makes him an underrated but essential member of the G.I. Joe roster, contributing to the team's overall versatility and effectiveness.

• Cross-Country
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  Cross-Country, whose real name is Robert M. Blais, is a G.I. Joe character introduced in 1986 during the vintage G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero era. As the G.I. Joe team's H.A.V.O.C. (Heavy Articulated Vehicle Ordinance Carrier) driver, Cross-Country is recognized for his expertise in operating and maneuvering large, heavily armed vehicles. His character design often features a distinctive helmet, goggles, and a vest. Cross-Country's primary role is to handle the H.A.V.O.C., a versatile and powerful vehicle that can traverse various terrains. His proficiency in driving and maintaining such heavy-duty vehicles makes him an essential asset during missions that require significant firepower and mobility. While not always in the forefront of G.I. Joe storylines, Cross-Country's specialization in heavy vehicles adds a crucial dimension to the team's capabilities. His dedication to operating powerful vehicles positions him as an underrated but vital member of the G.I. Joe roster, contributing to the team's effectiveness in dealing with Cobra's diverse threats.

• Salvo
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  Salvo, whose real name is David K. Hasle, is a G.I. Joe character introduced in 1990 during the vintage G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero era. As an Explosives Ordinance Disposal (EOD) specialist, Salvo is recognized for his expertise in handling and defusing explosive devices. His character design often includes a distinctive helmet and a backpack equipped with demolition tools. Salvo's primary role within the G.I. Joe team is to neutralize explosive threats, showcasing his bravery and technical skills in the face of danger. His specialization in explosive ordnance disposal makes him an invaluable asset during missions involving Cobra's booby traps and other explosive devices. While not always as well-known as some iconic G.I. Joe characters, Salvo's dedication to handling explosive threats adds a realistic and critical aspect to the team's capabilities. His role as an EOD specialist positions him as an underrated but essential member of the G.I. Joe roster, contributing to the team's ability to navigate and neutralize dangerous situations.

• Mercer

• Mercer, whose real name is Felix Stratton, is a G.I. Joe character introduced in 1990 during the vintage G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero era. Formerly associated with the Cobra organization, Mercer underwent a change of heart and joined the G.I. Joe team. His character design often includes a distinctive skull-shaped faceplate and a hood, reflecting his history as a former Cobra Viper. Mercer's primary role within the G.I. Joe team is as a highly skilled and versatile soldier. He brings a unique perspective to the team, having experienced both sides of the conflict. Mercer's expertise in guerrilla warfare and his proficiency with various weapons make him a valuable asset during covert missions and battles against Cobra forces. While not always as prominently featured as some classic G.I. Joe characters, Mercer's backstory and his transition from Cobra to G.I. Joe add depth to the team's roster. His redemption arc and dedication to fighting against his former allies make him an underrated but significant member of the G.I. Joe team.

• Charbroil
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  Charbroil, whose real name is Carl G. Shannon, is a G.I. Joe character introduced in 1988 during the vintage G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero era. As the G.I. Joe team's Flamethrower Trooper, Charbroil specializes in handling and deploying flamethrower weapons. His character design often includes flame-resistant armor, a helmet, and a backpack equipped with a flamethrower. Charbroil's primary role is to provide firepower in the form of controlled flames during battles. His expertise in using flamethrowers makes him effective in various combat scenarios, particularly in dealing with Cobra's entrenched positions and fortifications. While not always as well-known as some iconic G.I. Joe characters, Charbroil's specialization in flamethrower weaponry adds a unique and powerful element to the team's arsenal. His dedication to handling and utilizing fire-based weapons positions him as an underrated but essential member of the G.I. Joe roster, contributing to the team's ability to counteract Cobra's various threats.