General Vangelis (Crystalized)
njo761 · Ninjago
Crystalized · 2022 (Released as part of the final wave of the Ninjago: Masters of Spinjitzu storyline)
Figure ID
njo761
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2022 (Released as part of the final wave of the Ninjago: Masters of Spinjitzu storyline)
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. He is exclusive to the larger, more expensive sets in the Crystalized wave, making him harder to obtain than basic foot soldiers.
Head
Dual-sided. One side features a gray, stone-like face with a cracked eye and aggressive expression; the other features the corrupted 'Crystalized' look with purple/trans-pink highlights. It is topped with a Dark Red samurai helmet with trans-blue crystalline protrusions.
Torso
Dark Red armor plate over a gray torso. The printing features intricate crystal-like ribbing and stone textures. The arms are mismatched: one gray and one trans-light blue to represent crystal corruption.
Legs
Pearl Dark Gray legs with printed armor plating and jagged crystalline silver/blue details on the shins. The hips are Dark Red to match the torso base.
Accessories
Includes a Large Crystal Armor piece (neck bracket) in Dark Red with trans-columnar 'Vengestone' growths. He typically wields a crystal blade or elemental spear (though not fully sharp in this photo).
Color Scheme
A striking contrast of Dark Red (crimson), Pearl Dark Gray, and Trans-Light Blue highlights representing the Overlord's corruption.
Printing Details
High-detail pad printing. Features 'stone' textures and cracks across the face and torso. The leg printing extends to the knees with sharp, jagged lines typical of the Crystalized aesthetic.
Variants
This is the 'Crystalized' version. A previous version of Vangelis (as the Skull Sorcerer) exists from the Shintaro/Master of the Mountain wave (njo605), which features a mask and wings.
Condition Notes
Watch for stress marks on the trans-blue crystalline parts of the helmet and armor. The Dark Red plastic is sturdy, but the trans-colored 'crystal' edges can be prone to chipping if dropped.
Estimated Value
$8.00 - $15.00 USD (Used) / $15.00 - $22.00 USD (New). Value fluctuates based on set availability since the retirement of the Crystalized wave.
Price (New)
N/A individually; he appeared in sets ranging from $60.00 to $150.00 (e.g., Catlow's Crystal King or The Crystal King Temple).
Compatible Sets
71771 The Crystal King Temple, 71774 Lloyd's Golden Ultra Dragon
Character Background
Vangelis was the former King of Shintaro who operated secretly as the Skull Sorcerer. In the Crystalized season, he was resurrected/recruited by the Overlord to serve as a General in the Council of the Crystal King.
Design Notes
The use of dual-molded trans-blue and solid dark red plastic on the helmet and armor is a hallmark of the 2022 Ninjago design language, representing 'infusion' with Vengestone.
Similar Minifigures
Pythor (njo759), The Skull Sorcerer (njo605), Mr. F (njo762), and Harumi (njo770).
Collectibility
High. As a member of the 'Council of the Crystal King,' he is a 'must-have' for fans completing the group of villains from the series finale.
History
Vangelis represents a rare instance of a Ninjago villain returning with a completely different elemental aesthetic, evolving from 'Undead/Bone' to 'Crystal/Stony.'
Interesting Facts
The 'crystal' pieces on his armor are actually the same mold used for the power bursts in the Marvel Super Heroes line, but cast in trans-light blue for this theme.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside the other five Council members on a trans-purple or stone-themed baseplate. UV lighting makes the trans-blue parts 'pop' significantly.
Modification Potential
The armor and helmet are popular for 'corrupted' MOCs or fantasy-style crystal demons. The head is excellent for stone statues or golems.
Overall Assessment
9/10. An exceptionally designed villain with a unique silhouette. The combination of Dark Red and Trans-Blue is one of the most visually appealing palettes in modern Ninjago.