Manta Warrior
atl004 · Atlantis
Initial Wave · 2010 - Released during the debut of the Atlantis theme, a major homegrown IP meant to replace Mars Mission with an underwater adventure focus.
Figure ID
atl004
Theme
Atlantis
Year Released
2010 - Released during the debut of the Atlantis theme, a major homegrown IP meant to replace Mars Mission with an underwater adventure focus.
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. While it appeared in several sets, the theme has been retired for over a decade, making complete figures in good condition harder to find for new collectors.
Head
The head is a standard black minifigure head, but the defining feature is the Sand Blue Manta Ray-shaped headgear with a printed teal 'brain' or eye pattern and a clear visor showcasing red eyes underneath.
Torso
Black with silver/grey muscular 'rib' printing and a purple sash at the waist. The back features minimal silver printing. Arms and hands are solid black.
Legs
Solid black, unprinted. The legs are standard adult size.
Accessories
Usually paired with a trident or a spear (not pictured). The unique headgear is the primary accessory-element that defines the character.
Color Scheme
Primary Black with Sand Blue headpiece, featuring accents of Metallic Silver, Teal, and Dark Purple.
Printing Details
Pad-printed torso with sharp contrast between the black plastic and silver muscles. The headgear features detailed teal printing on the 'crest'. No leg or arm printing.
Variants
There are no major printing variants, but the headgear was used for the 'Manta Ray' character in other contexts. This specific configuration defines the standard warrior.
Condition Notes
Check for scratches on the clear visor of the headgear, as it is prone to scuffing. The silver torso printing can rub off with heavy play. Stress marks may appear on the 'horns' of the manta helmet.
Estimated Value
Used: $3.00 - $5.00 USD. New: $7.00 - $10.00 USD. High supply keeps the price relatively low despite the age of the theme.
Price (New)
Available in sets ranging from $6.99 (Gateway of the Squid) to $99.99 (Atlantic City).
Compatible Sets
8058 Guardian of the Deep, 8075 Neptune Carrier, 8077 Atlantis Exploration HQ, 30042 Mini Sub (Polybag).
Character Background
Mutated humanoid guardians of the lost city of Atlantis. They serve the portal protectors and fight against the Divers reaching the colored treasure keys.
Design Notes
The dual-molded appearance of the headgear was a standout feature in 2010. It uses a translucent plastic window integrated into the sand-blue mold to create a 'helmet' effect.
Similar Minifigures
Squid Warrior (atl003), Shark Warrior (atl005), and various versions of Black Manta from the DC Super Heroes theme.
Collectibility
Moderate. It is essential for fans of the Atlantis theme, but generally considered 'army builder' fodder rather than a high-value centerpiece.
History
Part of LEGO's last major 'Underwater Expedition' era before themes shifted more toward licensed IPs and Ninjago's Seabound sub-theme.
Interesting Facts
The 'teeth' of the manta headpiece are designed to look like a mandibles, and the large 'horns' are inspired by real-world Manta Ray cephalic fins.
Display Suggestions
Display in an underwater-themed diorama using transparent blue bricks or alongside other Atlantis monsters like the giant squid or shark guardians.
Modification Potential
The torso is popular for custom 'Dark Ninja' or 'Shadow Assassin' minifigures due to the purple sash and black color scheme.
Overall Assessment
A quintessential 2010-era LEGO monster. While simple in the legs, the specialized head mold remains one of LEGO's most creative creature designs.