Mr. Sinister

Year of release: 1992/1994/1996
Figure Number: 4942 (no goatee); 49372 (goatee & red cape/no goatee))
Accessories: Removable Cape
Action Feature: Power Light Blast (eyes and chest glow)

Comments: Two versions were released of the Mr. Sinister figure. The same molds were used and the only difference is the minute presence or absence of the figure's goatee. In 1992, the original release of this figure had no goatee (though the character in the comics was actually sporting the facial hair at that time). By the time Toy Biz had released the repaint version with the goatee, the character in the comics was then clean shaven. This variation is easily overlooked.

One other significant advance was made with this figure. This was the first "electric" or light-up figure to include instructions for battery replacement. Unlike its predcessors (Storm I and Cyclops I), the Mr. Sinisiter figure could be opened to replace the two (2) AG9 Button Cell Batteries. Subsequent light-up figures would also incorporate this feature into their design.

Mr. Sinister was re-released in 1996 with no goatee and a red cape as shown in the catalog photo for the 1993 repaint series. It took 3 years for this variation to actually reach retail stores (and then only the clearance outlets like Kay Bee Toys). Better late than never, huh?