Action Figure Reviews

G.I. Joe Classified Series #159, Richard “Crystal Ball” King Review

crystal ball with mask and sword

Review: G.I. Joe Classified Series #159 — Crystal Ball

Hobby Haul Collector Review • Wal-Mart Exclusive Cobra Operative

As I said earlier, I initially wasn’t looking to add Crystal Ball to my collection. But now that I have him, I’m so glad I came around. This is one of the most eerie and unique figures on my shelf — a great addition.

Accessories & Weapons

Crystal Ball’s accessory suite is nothing short of mystical. Inside the box you’ll find:

  • A black revolver with a gold snake design and a port for blast effects
  • A translucent-green spectral sword with black handle and Omega-style logo
  • Fire effects pieces for dynamic posing
  • His trademark OG shield with skull-and-snakes motif — the red eyes shift as light moves
  • A detachable translucent-green skull (with Omega logo and snakes) that mounts to the shield
  • A detailed crystal ball containing a screaming skull and tentacles
  • An alternate “Dyer Mask” head sculpt featuring horns, tentacles, and red eyes
  • An extra “creepy occult practitioner” hand with long, spiky fingers

The hypnotism shield effect looks fantastic in light, the translucent pieces glow eerily, and the sculpting on every weapon shows real attention to detail. The only omission is a stand for the floating crystal-ball accessory — a minor gripe for an otherwise loaded kit.

Design & Modernization

Hasbro reimagined Crystal Ball as a true illusionist villain — more “occult showman” than Saturday-morning sorcerer. The look evokes Mysterio crossed with a Lovecraftian Cobra officer. The sculpt detail is incredible, with textured fabrics, layered armor, and subtle snake motifs across his costume.

The jacket looks stylish and enhances the character’s cult-leader aesthetic, though it slightly limits arm movement. Some joints, especially the neck, can feel gummy out of the box — a quick warm-water treatment helps. Adjusting the bicep cuff improves range, so articulation isn’t lost entirely.

Articulation

Crystal Ball includes the standard G.I. Joe Classified Series articulation system:

  • Head & neck movement
  • Shoulder and bicep swivels + butterfly joints
  • Double pinless elbows
  • Wrist swivels and hinges
  • Ab crunch and waist rotation
  • Drop-down hips and thigh cuts
  • Double pinless knees
  • Boot cut and ankle rockers

Despite the long coat, posing is solid once you adjust the cuffs — plenty of dynamic range for casting-spell or gunslinger poses.

Overall Impression

The sculpt, paint, and accessory detail put Crystal Ball among the most visually unique Cobras ever made. He fits seamlessly into spooky crossover displays — he’d look right at home alongside Mythic Legions or Operation Monster Force figures. The alternate head sculpt, eerie color palette, and occult weaponry make him a standout piece in any 1:12 collection.

💬 My Take

What I Love

  • Loaded with unique accessories and effects
  • Striking modernized design that honors the original
  • Excellent paint apps and texture work
  • Perfect for display with Monster Force or any other paranormal figures

Minor Nitpicks

  • Jacket hinders some arm articulation

Overall Rating: ⭐ 9 / 10 — A fantastically weird and wonderfully executed Cobra operative who adds a fresh occult flair to the Classified line.

crystal ball in packaging

Buy It Now

Haven’t picked up Crystal Ball yet? Keep an eye out for him on Hasbro Pulse.

Oh, and if you’re interested in figures with a similar motif to Crystal Ball, check out Operation Monster Force — it’s a perfect match for fans of the supernatural-meets-military theme.

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