Fright Knight - Basil the Bat Lord (Update)
cas567 · Castle / Icons
Fright Knights / 10305 Lion Knights' Castle · 2022 (Set 10305)
Figure ID
cas567
Theme
Castle / Icons
Year Released
2022 (Set 10305)
Rarity
Uncommon. While part of a flagship set, it is restricted to the high-priced 90th Anniversary Lion Knights' Castle, making individual acquisition more specialized than standard city figures.
Head
Yellow skin tone featuring a wide, toothy grin with distinct eyebrow printing. This modern update replaces the classic 1990s red-bearded face with a more expressive 'eager knight' look.
Torso
Light Bluish Gray with intricate silver and dark gray plate armor printing. The design includes a gorget detail and flared waist armor print to simulate the original 1997 breastplate aesthetic without the bulky plastic overlay.
Legs
Light Bluish Gray with detailed plate armor printing on the hips and front of legs. Matching the torso, it features knee plate and greave detailing in dark gray and silver ink.
Accessories
Includes a Pearl Light Gray visored helmet. In its original set context, it is typically paired with a black cape and a bat-themed sword or halberd, though only the helmet is featured in the provided image.
Color Scheme
Primary Light Bluish Gray with Silver, Dark Gray, and Yellow accents. The monochromatic armor reflects the 'Fright Knight' aesthetic modernized for the 2020s palette.
Printing Details
High-definition pad printing. Features detailing on the legs, torso (front and back), and head. The metallic silver ink used for the armor accents has a subtle reflective quality typical of modern Castle-line reissues.
Variants
This is the 2022 'Legacy' version. It differs significantly from the 1997 original (cas018) which used a solid plastic breastplate piece and a different face print with a red beard.
Condition Notes
Visor pivot points on the helmet are the most common wear areas. The silver printing on the torso can be prone to scratching if played with heavily. This example appears to be in Excellent/New condition.
Estimated Value
$8.00 - $12.00 USD (Used/Complete). Prices remain stable due to the figure being exclusive to a $400 USD retail set.
Price (New)
N/A (Included in set 10305 retailing at $399.99). The figure contributes roughly 3% of the total set value on the secondary market.
Compatible Sets
10305 Lion Knights' Castle (2022). Its design is intended to harmonize with 40567 Forest Hideout and other 90th Anniversary Castle sets.
Character Background
This figure is a tribute to Basil the Bat Lord, the leader of the Fright Knights from 1997-1998. In modern Castle lore, he serves as a rival or mercenary faction leader within the expanded kingdom.
Design Notes
A masterclass in 'flat-printing' translation. LEGO designers chose to print the textures of the original bulky 90s breastplate directly onto the torso to allow for better arm articulation and a sleeker display profile.
Similar Minifigures
cas018 (Original Basil the Bat Lord), cas547 (Black Falcon - 2021 version), and the Series 19 Fright Knight collectible minifigure.
Collectibility
High. Anything related to the classic Fright Knights sub-theme is highly sought after by AFOLs (Adult Fans of LEGO). This specific version is a key component for completing the 90th Anniversary roster.
History
First introduced in 1997, the Fright Knights were the last 'classic' castle sub-theme of the 90s. This version was released 25 years later as a nostalgic homage for the company's 90th anniversary milestone.
Interesting Facts
Despite being an 'evil' knight in the 90s, this version's head print is often used to represent a clumsy or over-excited squire due to the wide, somewhat goofy smile.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed on a light gray brick-built pedestal or within a castle gatehouse scene alongside Black Falcon soldiers and the Forestmen.
Modification Potential
Excellent base for custom fantasy knights. The torso and legs are versatile for any medieval warrior build. Swapping the head for a bearded variant can easily 're-create' the original 1997 character look.
Overall Assessment
A 9/10 update of a classic character. It perfectly balances modern printing fidelity with nostalgic charm. A must-have for Castle collectors who cannot afford or find space for the full 10305 Castle set.