Cole - Day of the Departed / Skybound (Stone Armor)
njo252 · Ninjago
Skybound / Day of the Departed · Released in 2016. This figure was part of the 'Day of the Departed' TV special wave, which brought back elements of previous suits with updated metallic printing.
Figure ID
njo252
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
Released in 2016. This figure was part of the 'Day of the Departed' TV special wave, which brought back elements of previous suits with updated metallic printing.
Rarity
Uncommon. While it appeared in a few mass-released sets, this specific version with the 'Day of the Departed' torso remains a target for Ninjago completionists.
Head
Standard yellow head with black busy eyebrows and a determined scowl. It includes the black wrap-around ninja headgear (mold 98133) with a gold emblem/symbol printed on the forehead and integrated face mask.
Torso
Black torso with intricate printing including copper/orange stone armor plating, a dark blue strap across the chest, several pouches, and a silver/grey belt section.
Legs
Black legs with printing that continues the belt detail (white tie-knot) and copper-colored knee pads/plating consistent with the Earth Ninja's motifs.
Accessories
In the image, the figure is shown without accessories. Typically, it was packaged with a Scythe or a Aeroblade/Katana depending on the specific set version.
Color Scheme
Primarily Black with secondary accents of Copper (Orange), Dark Blue, and Silver. These colors represent Cole's element of Earth.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the headgear symbol, torso (front and back), and the front of the legs. Note the fine lines on the copper armor plates.
Variants
Cole has dozens of variants; this version specifically resembles the Skybound 'Stone Armor' but features the 'Day of the Departed' style printing. It differs from the Kimono, DX, or ZX versions in its rugged, armored aesthetic.
Condition Notes
Check for silver paint wear on the belt and torso emblem. The black plastic shows scratches easily. Ensure the headgear emblem is not rubbed off from frequent handling.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $7.00 USD | New/Mint: $8.00 - $12.00 USD. Prices fluctuate based on the secondary market (BrickLink/eBay).
Price (New)
N/A (Included in sets ranging from $15.00 to $70.00 retail). For example, Cole's Rock Roader (70589) retailed for $39.99.
Compatible Sets
70589 Rock Roader, 70591 Kryptarium Prison Breakout (Day of the Departed variants).
Character Background
Cole is the Master of Earth and the former leader of the Ninja team. This suit represents his appearance during the Day of the Departed, a time when he was still struggling with his 'Ghost' form before becoming human again.
Design Notes
This figure uses the newer two-part ninja mask system. The copper printing is intended to look like 'Stone Armor,' a recurring theme for Cole since the Season 2 Legacy figures.
Similar Minifigures
njo121 Cole (Stone Armor), njo204 Ghost Cole (Skybound), njo277 Cole (Hands of Time).
Collectibility
Moderate. Vital for Ninjago fans who collect every suit variation, though less iconic than the 'Legacy' or 'Classic' suits.
History
Ninjago rebooted its suit styles frequently; the 2016 era marked a shift toward more high-detail, metallic ink printing that separated it from the simpler 2011 versions.
Interesting Facts
The symbol on his forehead translates to a stylized 'Earth' character in the Ninjago language. During this era of the show, Cole was actually a ghost, though the physical minifigure here has a standard yellow skin tone.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside Kai, Jay, Zane, and Lloyd in their respective 2016 suits for a cohesive team look. A dark grey or rocky baseplate enhances his Earth Master theme.
Modification Potential
Excellent for military or mercenary MOCs due to the tactical-looking stone armor and pouches printed on the torso.
Overall Assessment
A solid, detailed representation of Cole. His armor printing is exceptionally sharp, making him one of the more visually interesting 'low-cost' Ninjago figures to acquire.