Jay - Master of Lightning (Skybound Outfit)
njo196 · Ninjago
Skybound (Season 6) · 2016
Figure ID
njo196
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2016
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. While once widely available in multiple sets, it is now discontinued and sought after for its specific season-accurate detailing.
Head
Yellow classic skin tone. Features Jay's signature smirk and notched eyebrow. The hair piece is the dark orange 'moussed' style hair (Part 15501). Dual-sided printing with a determined/angry face on the reverse.
Torso
Blue torso with silver armor plating on the right shoulder, a bronze octopus-style crest (representing the Skybound motif), a brown strap across the chest, and dark blue arms with black hands. Back printing includes continuation of the strap and belt.
Legs
Blue legs with printing on the hips and front of the legs. Features a silver sash/belt knot on the left side and dark blue/light gray layered fabric printing on the knees.
Accessories
Typically comes with two golden katanas (Part 30173). The figure uses a pearl gold 'Scabbard with Neck Bracket' (Part 13591) which allows the swords to be stored on the back.
Color Scheme
A primary palette of Blue and Dark Blue, accented with Pearl Gold weaponry and Silver/White printing for the sash and armor.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing typical of mid-2010s Ninjago. Features intricate metallic silver and bronze ink for the armor and crest. Printing extends to the toes/bottom of the leg front.
Variants
This Skybound version is distinct from the later 'Legacy' redesigns. The key differentiator is the specific silver armor shape on the right shoulder and the octopus-head crest.
Condition Notes
Common wear points include the silver printing on the toes, which can chip easily. Check for stress marks on the gold back-attachment and cracks on the side of the torso from arm movement.
Estimated Value
Used Complete: $5.00 - $8.00 / New condition: $10.00 - $14.00. Value varies slightly depending on the inclusion of the specific gold katanas.
Price (New)
Available in sets ranging from the $9.99 Sky Shark to the $119.99 Misfortune's Keep. As a standard retail figure, the cost-per-figure was low at launch.
Compatible Sets
70601 Sky Shark, 70602 Jay's Elemental Dragon, 70605 Misfortune's Keep, 70592 Salvage M.E.C.
Character Background
Jay Walker (born Jay Gordon) is the Elemental Master of Lightning. In the Skybound arc, Jay is the primary protagonist who must outsmart the Djinn Nadakhan to save his friends.
Design Notes
The Skybound suits were unique for their 'junk-armor' aesthetic, reflecting the ninja's struggle against sky pirates. The use of the octopus icon is a direct nod to the maritime theme of the season.
Similar Minifigures
njo127 (Jay - Deepstone), njo259 (Jay - Hands of Time), njo489 (Jay - Legacy).
Collectibility
Moderate. It is essential for fans of the Skybound season but due to its high production numbers, it is not considered a high-value investment piece.
History
First debuted in January 2016. This was a transitional period for Jay's design before the character was significantly redesigned for the Ninjago Movie in 2017.
Interesting Facts
The octopus-like crest on the uniform actually looks like a 'fleur-de-lis' mixed with nautical elements, often confused by fans as a generic gold star.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed with the other Skybound ninja or inside the cockpit of set 70602 (Jay's Elemental Dragon). Use a trans-clear stand to show him mid-air.
Modification Potential
Excellent for MOCs (My Own Creations) regarding steampunk or nautical themes due to the bronze/silver armor printing on the torso.
Overall Assessment
A solid, era-defining Ninjago figure. It perfectly captures the aesthetic of Season 6 and remains a favorite for its bright blue and gold contrast. Quality: 8/10.