Cole - Tournament Robes
njo111 · Ninjago
Tournament of Elements · 2015
Figure ID
njo111
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2015
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. While widely available in 2015, these figures are now retired and becoming harder to find in pristine condition outside of the secondary market.
Head
Yellow head with bushy black eyebrows, a smirk, and a mole/beauty mark on the right side. The hair piece is the standard Cole hair mold in black (part number 98385).
Torso
Black torso with a purple 'gi' wrap-around design. Features red Ninjago script on the left side (character for Master). It includes a purple printed belt with a knot. Back printing features a continuation of the purple robes and the Master elemental symbol.
Legs
Black legs with purple hip piece. The front of the left leg features red Ninjago script and purple robe fringe detailing. No side printing.
Accessories
As shown, the figure is missing its primary accessory which was a large silver jade blade or a staff. Usually accompanied by a mask or headpiece, though this version is the hair-only variant often found in the larger sets or pulse polybags.
Color Scheme
A dark, striking palette of Black and Dark Purple with small accents of Red and White (undershirt). This represents Cole's transition to the Tournament of Elements color scheme.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing typical of the 2015 era. Minimalist but sharp lines, particularly on the red Ninjago script. The purple ink is opaque and covers the black plastic base well.
Variants
There is a standard version with a ninja wrap/mask (njo122) and this hair-only version. Later versions of Tournament Cole appeared in 'Legacy' sets with higher detail levels.
Condition Notes
Common wear includes 'heel cracks' on the back of the legs and loose neck tension. The black plastic shows scratches easily under bright light. The hair mold is prone to minor scuffing on the tips.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $7.00 USD; New: $10.00 - $12.00 USD. Value is slightly suppressed if the specific Jade Blade accessory is missing.
Price (New)
Originally released in sets ranging from $19.99 (70753) to $79.99 (70749).
Compatible Sets
70753 Lava Falls and 70749 Enter the Serpent.
Character Background
Cole is the Elemental Master of Earth. In the 'Tournament of Elements' season, he and the other Ninja travel to Master Chen's island to find Zane and are forced to compete in a battle royale. This outfit represents his sleeveless tournament attire.
Design Notes
Significant for being one of the first many variations of Cole that utilized purple as a secondary accent color, which became a staple for the character's earth-themed designs.
Similar Minifigures
Tournament Kai (njo117), Tournament Jay (njo113), and Tournament Lloyd (njo114).
Collectibility
High for Ninjago completionists. The 'Tournament of Elements' wave is considered one of the 'Golden Ages' of Ninjago design and is fondly remembered by fans of the TV series.
History
Launched during the fourth season of the Ninjago: Masters of Spinjitzu show. This era marked a shift toward more character-driven unique outfits rather than identical team uniforms.
Interesting Facts
The mole on Cole's face is a distinct feature that helps identify him even without his hair or outfit. The red script on his chest literally translates to 'Master' in the fictional Ninjago language.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside other Elemental Masters from the 2015 sets or on a custom 'Chens Island' jungle diorama. Use a specialized Ninjago 10th Anniversary stand for a premium look.
Modification Potential
Excellent for MOCs (My Own Creations) regarding martial arts or monk-style characters due to the generic but cool aesthetic of the purple/black gi.
Overall Assessment
A solid, essential figure for any Ninjago enthusiast. While not the most expensive figure in the theme, it is a key piece representing a pivotal story arc in the franchise's history.