Kai (DX - Dragon Xtreme)
njo009 · Ninjago
DX (Dragon Xtreme) / Pilot Episodes · 2011 (Part of the initial Ninjago launch wave)
Figure ID
njo009
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2011 (Part of the initial Ninjago launch wave)
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While Ninjago was mass-produced, the DX variants were specific to higher-priced sets or spinners in the first year and are highly sought after by nostalgic collectors.
Head
Yellow classic skin tone with angry determined eyebrows and focused eyes. Topped with a red ninja wrap (hood) that covers the mouth and neck.
Torso
Red torso with black hands. Features a large, ornate golden dragon head print on the right side breathing fire, representing the Fire Dragon. Back printing includes the 'Fire' kanji symbol.
Legs
Red legs with red hips. Printing features a continuation of the golden dragon body/tail swirling down the right leg and a black sash/belt tied at the waist.
Accessories
The figure originally came with a golden Fire Sword (Sword of Fire) and often a spinner base, though they are missing in the provided image.
Color Scheme
Primary Red with Metallic Gold and Black accents. The gold is high-contrast to symbolize the 'Dragon Power' upgrade.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing for the era. The gold ink is slightly metallic. Includes front and back torso printing and front leg printing, which was advanced for 2011.
Variants
Standard Pilot Kai (njo001) has a simple robe; Kendo Kai has armor; Micro-figure versions exist. The 'DX' variant is specifically identified by the large dragon print.
Condition Notes
Common wear points include the gold printing on the torso/legs which can rub off, and cracks in the heels or sides of the torso. The red plastic is prone to showing scratches.
Estimated Value
Used: $12 - $18 USD; New/Mint: $25 - $35 USD. Professional grading can increase value significantly for pristine dragon prints.
Price (New)
Available in sets ranging from $9.99 (Spinners) to $69.99 (Fire Temple).
Compatible Sets
2507 Fire Temple, 2254 Mountain Shrine, 2111 Kai (Spinner).
Character Background
Kai is the Elemental Master of Fire and the protagonist of the early Ninjago Pilot episodes and Season 1. The DX suits were earned after the ninja tamed their elemental dragons to travel to the Underworld.
Design Notes
The DX line was the first 'special suit' variant in Ninjago history, establishing the trend of multiple outfits per season. The wrap-around dragon art was a major aesthetic leap for LEGO.
Similar Minifigures
Jay DX (njo010), Zane DX (njo011), Cole DX (njo012), and Sensei Wu (DX/Dragon Robes).
Collectibility
High. First-year Ninjago figures have a massive nostalgia market. The DX variants are considered essential for a complete 'OG' collection.
History
Launched in January 2011, this figure marked the beginning of Ninjago's dominance as a 'Big Bang' theme for LEGO, transitioning from traditional Ninjas to fantasy-based heroes.
Interesting Facts
The dragon print on the torso is designed to specifically align with the print on the legs to create a single continuous image of a dragon when the figure is standing straight.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside the other 3 DX ninjas on their respective Spinners or in a UV-protected case to prevent the gold ink from fading or oxidizing.
Modification Potential
Excellent for purist MOCs; the golden dragon legs are popular for creating custom 'Imperial' or 'Royal' fantasy characters due to the ornate gold detail.
Overall Assessment
A quintessential piece of LEGO history. The print quality is iconic, the character is a fan-favorite, and it remains a solid investment for any Ninjago enthusiast. Rating: 8.5/10.