Saturday Morning Cartoons – G.I.Joe The Phantom Brigade

The Phantom Brigade | G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero | S01 | E18 | Full Episode

Cobra Commander hires a gypsy to summon the spirits of three great warriors from the past. Once in control of the ghosts, he commands them to destroy G.I. Joe. But the Baroness, now relieved of her duties, tells the Joes how to eliminate the threat.

---

“The Phantom Brigade” stands out as one of the more imaginative episodes in the classic G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero cartoon, blending sci-fi intrigue with the grounded heroics fans love. The story pulls the Joes into a mysterious conflict involving holographic soldiers and psychological warfare, giving Cobra a uniquely eerie edge that raises the stakes beyond the usual battlefield showdown. It’s awesome how the current line and comics are following suit (Crystal Ball and the Ghost Vipers, anyone?)

What makes this episode memorable is how it leans into suspense. The idea of an unstoppable, ghost-like army plays on fear of the unknown, forcing the Joes to rely on strategy and teamwork rather than pure firepower. Duke and the team showcase sharp problem-solving under pressure, reinforcing the series’ core message that intelligence and unity win the day.

Visually, “The Phantom Brigade” delivers classic 1980s animation charm, with dramatic lighting and effects that heighten the illusion of Cobra’s phantom forces. The episode balances action, mystery, and character moments, making it a standout for longtime fans and newcomers revisiting the series.

For anyone exploring the best G.I. Joe cartoon episodes, “The Phantom Brigade” is a must-watch. It captures the spirit of the franchise—heroism, innovation, and the constant chess match between G.I. Joe and Cobra, while offering a storyline that still feels fun decades later.

I hope that you enjoyed this Saturday’s viewing session and look forward to seeing you back here next week for a new cartoon!

If there’s anything you’d like showcased here, just drop me a line. 🙂