Ice Emperor
njo545 · Ninjago
Secrets of the Forbidden Spinjitzu - Ice Chapter · 2019 - Released as the primary antagonist for the Summer 2019 wave of Ninjago, specifically debuting in the flagship set Castle of the Forsaken Emperor.
Figure ID
njo545
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2019 - Released as the primary antagonist for the Summer 2019 wave of Ninjago, specifically debuting in the flagship set Castle of the Forsaken Emperor.
Rarity
Rare. This figure was exclusive to the largest and most expensive set of the wave, making it harder to obtain than basic grunts or the ninja heroes. Production was limited to a one-year cycle.
Head
Trans-light blue head with printing. The face features a malevolent expression with glowing white eyes, dark blue eyebrows, and icy facial markings. It is topped with a specialized trans-light blue dual-molded crown/hair piece.
Torso
Dark red torso with detailed printing of silver armor plating, a brown belt, and ice shard patterns cascading down from the neck. It features one trans-light blue arm (left) to represent his elemental corruption and one solid dark red arm (right).
Legs
Light bluish gray legs with dark red hips. The printing continues the armor and belt motif from the torso and features elaborate white and light blue ice crystal patterns around the thighs.
Accessories
Included with a tattered black cape (spongy fabric). In its original set, it also wields a transparent light blue Scroll of Forbidden Spinjitzu staff and a large buildable sword.
Color Scheme
A striking contrast of Fire (Dark Red) and Ice (Trans-light Blue/Light Bluish Gray). The use of trans-blue for the head and arm symbolizes the character's frozen heart.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the head, torso (front and back), and the front of the legs. The alignment of the ice shards across the torso-leg junction is a key indicator of authentic quality.
Variants
This is the only version of this specific character. While Zane has many variants, this specific corrupted 'Ice Emperor' form is unique to the 2019 wave.
Condition Notes
Tattered capes are prone to fraying at the edges. The trans-light blue arm can develop stress marks or hair-line cracks at the shoulder joint if rotated excessively. Check for fading on the red torso printing.
Estimated Value
Used: $25.00 - $35.00 USD; New/Mint: $45.00 - $55.00 USD. Prices have appreciated steadily since the set's retirement.
Price (New)
Included in set 70678 which retailed for $99.99 USD. Not available as a standalone purchase or CMF.
Compatible Sets
70678 - Castle of the Forsaken Emperor.
Character Background
The Ice Emperor is the corrupted form of Zane, the Titanium Ninja, who was sent back in time and lost his memories. Manipulated by Vex, he ruled the Never-Realm with an icy grip for decades until his brothers arrived to save him.
Design Notes
Notable for the use of transparent plastic for limbs and the head, which is usually reserved for ghosts or elemental beings. The crown mold is highly detailed and specific to this character's regal, frozen aesthetic.
Similar Minifigures
Zane (Titanium Ninja), General Vex, Vex, and the Blizzard Samurai units (Blizzard Sword Master, Blizzard Archer).
Collectibility
High. As a major antagonist and a dark version of a beloved lead character, it is a centerpiece for any Ninjago collection and is considered a 'must-have' for completionists.
History
Follows the 'corrupted hero' trope often used in Ninjago. It marked the first time Zane was portrayed as the primary villain of a seasonal arc.
Interesting Facts
The Ice Emperor is technically over 60 years old in Never-Realm time due to a time-dilation effect, though the minifigure represents his ageless robotic form.
Display Suggestions
Display on a throne of ice or alongside General Vex and the Blizzard Samurai. Using a backlight can make the transparent blue head and arm 'glow' effectively.
Modification Potential
The trans-light blue arm and head are highly sought after by MOC builders for creating custom ice elementals or frozen statues.
Overall Assessment
An exceptional 9/10 minifigure. The unique dual-color scheme and transparent parts make it one of the most visually distinct villains in the Ninjago lineup.