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Rules Gijoe Operation Cobra

HomeRules Gijoe Operation Cobra
G.I. Joe: Operation Cobra combines the best elements of tactical board games with an innovative automa system. Players step into the roles of elite G.I. Joe operatives, working together to complete diverse missions. With a streamlined turn-based structure and shared decision-making, every move counts, requiring precise coordination to maximize the team’s success.

 

Opposing them are the Cobra forces, fully controlled by the game itself—no external app or dedicated player is needed to manage the villains. In G.I. Joe: Operation Cobra, all players unite on the same team of heroes, while Cobra’s actions are determined by an automatic card-driven system that dictates how each unit behaves (explained further in the following sections).

Missions and Campaign Mode

A game of G.I. Joe: Operation Cobra is always centered around a mission, with specific objectives and defeat conditions. Missions can be played individually as standalone games or as part of a full campaign composed of sequential, interconnected missions where the outcomes of one mission can influence the next.

The campaign and standalone missions are always G.I. Joe versus Cobra—there is no PvP mode. As a fully cooperative game, this focus defines the core experience. However, expansions are planned where players can take on the roles of Cobra characters against G.I. Joe, reversing the roles. At that point, PvP rules may become available. Nonetheless, the base game and most expansions are designed as a cooperative experience, with G.I. Joe as the heroes and Cobra as the villains.

Expansion missions are fully compatible with the core campaign and can either be integrated at various points within the main campaign or played as alternatives to it.

Automated and Unique Cobra Behavior

One of G.I. Joe: Operation Cobra’s standout features is the automated and unique behavior of Cobra characters. Each enemy follows a priority-driven logic system dictated by their specific activation cards, which emulate their combat style—whether as commanding leaders, frontline brawlers, supportive operatives, or stealthy saboteurs. This variety ensures that every encounter feels dynamic and personalized, challenging players to adapt their strategies. The system allows players to focus entirely on teamwork and adaptability, facing relentless threats without requiring anyone to control the villains.
Every antagonist NPC in the game, from Cobra Troopers and Vipers forming the backbone of the organization to Cobra Commander himself, has their own deck of orders. These 7-card decks are unique to each type of enemy, reflecting their combat style, behavior, and personality, as well as abilities that align with their character. These Cobra Activation Cards (CAC) feature a language-independent icon system, providing clear instructions at a glance, whether it’s shooting, charging, seeking cover, healing, or using a special ability.

Whenever a Cobra unit’s turn comes, players simply reveal the top card of that character’s Activation Deck and execute the instructions. Some villains are aggressive, others are cautious, deceptive, or prefer commanding their minions from the backline. This is all reflected through the combination of their CAC and their unique character sheet, which includes a personalized set of abilities.

Dice That Simplify and Deepen
The game’s dice system is designed to simplify rolls without sacrificing strategic depth. All actions in the game are resolved with a single roll, making every decision fast-paced yet impactful. In combat, one roll determines damage, range, special effects, and the protection provided by defense and cover. This unified approach removes unnecessary complexity while keeping gameplay smooth and engaging.The same dice are used for non-combat but mission-critical actions, such as skill checks. This consistency not only streamlines the rules but also ensures that every roll feels significant.

Character Loadouts:
Gear Up for Battle

Each G.I. Joe hero brings unique equipment and skills to the fight, represented by Loadout Cards that include increasingly powerful weapons, new abilities, and specialized training edges. Divided into three tiers of potency, these cards allow players to customize their team’s approach to each mission. There is a shared general pool of Loadout Cards accessible to all Joes, but each Joe also has a set of Signature Loadout Cards exclusive to their character. These signature items reflect their lore, combat style, and personality.

At the start of each mission, the G.I. Joe team selects which cards to equip. The number and tier of loadout cards available depend on their rank (in Campaign Mode) or the difficulty level chosen for the mission (in Standalone Mode).
Cobra characters, on the other hand, are equipped as determined by the mission. However, they draw from an extensive arsenal of Cobra-exclusive weapons, ensuring that every combination offers a unique and thematic challenge.