Kai - Tournament Robes
njo116 · Ninjago
Ninjago: Tournament of Elements · 2015. This figure debuted as part of the fourth season of the Ninjago Masters of Spinjitzu show/toy line, during an era where Ninjago was transitioning from a planned end-of-life to a permanent LEGO pillar.
Figure ID
njo116
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2015. This figure debuted as part of the fourth season of the Ninjago Masters of Spinjitzu show/toy line, during an era where Ninjago was transitioning from a planned end-of-life to a permanent LEGO pillar.
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. While it only appeared in two retail sets and one promotional pack, it was widely produced during Ninjago's peak global popularity.
Head
Yellow skin tone featuring the classic modern Kai facial expression with a notched eyebrow and determined smirk. It features a two-piece wraparound cowl: a red mask lower and a red/dark orange headband.
Torso
Red torso with asymmetrical printing. The left side (figure's right) features a red robe fold, while the right side features a vibrant yellow flame design with dark orange outlines. Includes white bandage printing at the neck and a brown belt.
Legs
Dual-molded or partially printed legs: the top is red with continuation of the robe and belt print; the bottom transition to Medium Nougat representing bare shins/feet, with dark red knotted rope wraps.
Accessories
Usually paired with a silver or gold katana or a red jade blade fragment in sets. This specific figure in the image is missing its weapon accessories.
Color Scheme
A striking palette of Red and Yellow, accented by Medium Nougat and Dark Orange. This reflects Kai's elemental power of Fire and the 'Sleeveless' tournament look.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing. The flame pattern on the torso is well-aligned with the hip piece. The printing includes a small yellow square icon on the hip representing Kai's elemental symbol.
Variants
There are several 'Tournament' variations (njo130 Sleeveless, njo110 with Armor). This specific variant (njo116) has one red arm and one yellow arm, a unique design choice for the character.
Condition Notes
Check for 'torso cracks' at the sides (under the arms) which is common for red pieces. The yellow arm can sometimes show bite marks or stress. The printing on the toes/ropes is prone to rubbing off.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $7.00 USD. New: $8.00 - $12.00 USD. Value is generally stable due to high supply but consistent demand from Ninjago completionists.
Price (New)
Associated with sets ranging from $19.99 (70753) to $29.99 (70756). Never sold individually in a CMF bag.
Compatible Sets
70753 Lava Falls (2015), 70756 Dojo Showdown (2015), and 5003085 Minifigure Pack (2015).
Character Background
Kai is the Elemental Master of Fire and older brother to Nya. In the Tournament of Elements, he was stripped of his standard ninja gear and forced to fight in these traditional robes in Master Chen's arena.
Design Notes
Notable for the 'barefoot' leg printing, which was relatively rare for Ninja characters at the time. The asymmetrical arm colors (left yellow, right red) represent his fire element rising through his body.
Similar Minifigures
Tournament versions of Lloyd (njo114), Jay (njo115), and Cole (njo117). Also similar to the 'Zukin' style Kai robes from the same year.
Collectibility
Moderate. It is a staple character in a very popular outfit, making it desirable for fans of the 'Tournament of Elements' TV arc, though its high production volume keeps it affordable.
History
Following the 'Rebooted' futuristic aesthetic, this figure marked a return to more traditional/martial arts-inspired designs for the Ninjago line in 2015.
Interesting Facts
The yellow arm is frequently swapped for red by kids during play, making the correct 'Yellow Left Arm' version slightly harder to find in used bins than 'franken-figs.'
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a 2x4 stud vignette mimicking a lava pit or alongside the Elemental Master of Ash in a Dojo setting.
Modification Potential
Excellent piece for custom Elemental Masters or 'street fighter' style MOCs due to the rare barefoot leg printing and sleeveless aesthetic.
Overall Assessment
A quintessential mid-era Ninjago figure. It perfectly captures the character's heat and energy through its unique color-blocking and is a must-have for anyone collecting the Season 4 cast.