Kai - Hands of Time (The Vermillion Attack)
njo284 · Ninjago
Masters of Spinjitzu - Hands of Time · 2017 - Debuted in Set 70621
Figure ID
njo284
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2017 - Debuted in Set 70621
Rarity
Common to Uncommon - Released in a low-priced 'battle pack' style set, making it highly accessible at the time.
Head
Yellow head with Kai's signature determined expression, furrowed brown eyebrows, and a small scar over the right eye. Dual-sided printing with a masked 'combat' expression on one side.
Torso
Black torso with red wrap-style tunic printing, features dark red and gold ornate patterns representing the Hands of Time aesthetic. Red arms and black hands.
Legs
Black legs with red and gold printing continuing the tunic and sash pattern from the torso, featuring red knee wraps.
Accessories
Red Ninja Wrap/Scabbard headgear with a gold 'pearl' emblem at the forehead. This specific figure was often paired with two silver katanas and the 'Time Blade' pieces in its original set.
Color Scheme
A striking contrast of Black and Red (Kai's signature color), accented with Pearl Gold and Dark Red.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso (front and back) and front of the legs. The gold accents are crisp, though the red on black can sometimes appear slightly muted compared to the plastic red of the arms.
Variants
This is the 'The Vermillion Attack' version. Other Hands of Time Kai variants include njo297 (no shoulder armor) and njo473 (Legacy version).
Condition Notes
The red wrap headgear is prone to surface scratches on the gold emblem. Check for torso cracks under the arms, a common issue for Ninjago figures from this era.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $7.00 USD; New/Mint: $8.00 - $12.00 USD. Prices are stable but low due to high production volume.
Price (New)
The set 70621 'The Vermillion Attack' retailed for $9.99 USD in 2017, which included three minifigures.
Compatible Sets
70621 The Vermillion Attack (2017).
Character Background
Kai is the Elemental Master of Fire. In the 'Hands of Time' season, he and his sister Nya uncover truths about their parents while fighting the Time Twins, Acronix and Krux.
Design Notes
Introduced the new one-piece 'wrap' style mask which became standard for several seasons, replacing the older two-piece cowl design.
Similar Minifigures
Cole (njo275), Jay (njo283), and Lloyd (njo279) from the same Hands of Time wave.
Collectibility
High for Ninjago completionists, though low as a standalone investment due to its commonality. It is a defining look for the character from a popular season.
History
Represents the seventh major design overhaul for Kai since the theme's inception in 2011, reflecting the shift toward more complex 'kimono' patterns.
Interesting Facts
The gold symbol on the forehead is the Ninjago language character for 'Fire'. This was one of the last seasons before the 'The LEGO Ninjago Movie' designs changed the characters' faces.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed with the other five ninja from the Hands of Time wave or in a combat scene with Vermillion warriors and the translucent Time Blades.
Modification Potential
The black and red torso is excellent for custom rogue or assassin MOCs. The red shoulder armor/mask combo is highly sought after for red-themed custom warriors.
Overall Assessment
A solid, well-designed figure that captures the 'Hands of Time' aesthetic perfectly. While not extremely valuable, it is a staple of mid-era Ninjago collecting.