Kai - Core (Red Ninja)
njo705 · Ninjago
Core (Evo) · 2022 - Introduced during the Ninjago Core/Evo wave which simplified designs for younger audiences.
Figure ID
njo705
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2022 - Introduced during the Ninjago Core/Evo wave which simplified designs for younger audiences.
Rarity
Common. This figure appears in multiple affordable sets and books, making it very accessible to collectors.
Head
Yellow head with dual-sided printing: determined smirk and angry combat expression. Topped with a dark red wrap-around cowl (Part 79549) with golden flame symbol.
Torso
Red torso with dark red and black sash, tan utility pouch, and shoulder armor printing. Back features a small 'Core' style flame logo. Arms are red with black hands.
Legs
Red legs with dark red belt and knee-wrap printing. Hip piece is red with continued belt detailing. Features 'Core' style bandages on the thighs.
Accessories
Typically comes with two golden katanas or a large flame-element sword (not shown in image). The cowl is a two-piece mold commonly found in this wave.
Color Scheme
Primarily Bright Red and Dark Red with accents of Yellow, Tan, and Gold printing.
Printing Details
High quality pad printing on torso (front/back) and legs (front). The design captures a 'classic' ninja look with updated modern linework.
Variants
Very similar to other Core versions; however, different sets might include different hairpieces or weapons. This specific hood variant is the standard for the 2022 wave.
Condition Notes
Prone to silvering/wear on the golden flame symbol on the forehead. Check for torque cracks in the red torso side seams.
Estimated Value
$3.00 - $5.00 USD (New/Sealed); $2.00 - $4.00 USD (Used complete).
Price (New)
Available in sets ranging from $9.99 (Spinners) to $99.99 (Temple of Ninja Dragon). Also found in Ninjago magazines for approx. $6.00.
Compatible Sets
71761 Zane's Power Up Mech EVO, 71762 Kai's Fire Dragon EVO, 71765 Ninja Ultra Combo Mech, 71767 Ninja Dojo Temple.
Character Background
Kai is the Elemental Master of Fire and the hot-headed older brother of Nya. He was the first ninja recruited by Master Wu.
Design Notes
The 'Core' line intentionally moved away from specific TV season branding to create evergreen versions of the characters.
Similar Minifigures
njo706 Jay (Core), njo707 Lloyd (Core), njo553 Kai (Legacy).
Collectibility
Moderate for completionists, but low financial investment potential due to high production volume and wide availability.
History
Represents a soft-reboot of the character designs in 2022 meant to bridge the gap between different generations of Ninjago media.
Interesting Facts
The symbol on his forehead is a stylized version of the Ninjago character for 'Fire' used throughout the Legacy and Core sets.
Display Suggestions
Looks best alongside other 'Core' wave ninjas on a grey stone-textured baseplate or in a 2x3 brick stand.
Modification Potential
The red legs and detailed torso are excellent for generic fighter or medieval civilian MOCs (My Own Creations).
Overall Assessment
A solid, well-detailed representation of a fan-favorite character. It scores high on durability and playability, though it lacks the 'prestige' value of earlier retired versions.