Laval - Fire Chi
loc079 · Legends of Chima
Fire vs. Ice · 2014. It debuted in the third wave of Chima, coinciding with the 'Fire vs. Ice' season of the animated series.
Figure ID
loc079
Theme
Legends of Chima
Year Released
2014. It debuted in the third wave of Chima, coinciding with the 'Fire vs. Ice' season of the animated series.
Rarity
Uncommon. While not a limited convention exclusive, this version was only available in two specific sets during the final year of the theme's core run.
Head
Double-sided printing with 'Fire Chi' yellow eyes. One side has a determined scowl, the reverse a fierce roar. Includes a unique lion headpiece in Dark Red and Pearl Gold with flame-like molding.
Torso
Pearl Gold armor over a Blue torso with intricate belt and muscle printing. The back is printed to match the front armor plating. Note: The image shows a Trans-Light Green 1x1 round plate in the chest, though the set usually comes with Trans-Light Blue.
Legs
Tan legs with Blue and Pearl Gold hip printing. Includes front-toe printing representing lion claws and armored plates down the shins.
Accessories
Equipped with two 'Fire Valious' swords (built with Pearl Gold sword hilts and Trans-Light Blue/Yellow blades) and a Pearl Gold 'Chi' shoulder armor piece with a center stud for the Chi orb.
Color Scheme
Primary: Pearl Gold and Blue. Accents: Tan (fur), Dark Red (hair), and Trans-Light Blue/Yellow (flame energy).
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing covers the front and back of the torso, the front of the legs, and both sides of the head. Detail is dense, featuring small knot-work and metallic highlights.
Variants
Standard Laval (loc001), Royal Laval (loc030), and Stealth Laval (loc103). This Fire Chi variant is distinguished by the gold armor and yellow 'powered up' eyes.
Condition Notes
The Pearl Gold shoulder armor is prone to scratching. Check for stress marks on the gold sword hilts and look for 'cracks' at the torso-arm join points common in figures from this era.
Estimated Value
$10 - $18 USD (Used Complete); $25+ (New/Sealed). The value is slowly rising as Chima nostalgia grows.
Price (New)
Originally released in sets ranging from $14.99 (70141) to $79.99 (70144).
Compatible Sets
70141 Vardy's Ice Vulture Glider; 70144 Laval's Fire Lion.
Character Background
Laval is the Prince of the Lion Tribe and protagonist of Legends of Chima. This 'Fire Chi' form represents his power-up after the Phoenix tribe granted the Lions fire-based abilities to fight the Ice Hunters.
Design Notes
Chima figures are famous for their dual-molded headpieces and complex armor. This figure represents the peak of Chima's 'over-designed' aesthetic, utilizing multiple layers of plastic to create 3D texture.
Similar Minifigures
Eris - Fire Chi (loc081), Cragger - Fire Chi (loc080), and the Ultra-Agents 'Invizable' for the translucent elements.
Collectibility
Moderate to High. Chima has a dedicated cult following. The 'Fire vs. Ice' sub-theme is generally the most sought after for its vibrant color palette and complex molds.
History
Chima was LEGO's successor to Ninjago (though both ran concurrently). Laval underwent four major design shifts before the theme was discontinued in 2015.
Interesting Facts
The Fire Chi transformation was a direct 'Super Saiyan' style trope common in early 2010s action-adventure toys. The sword accessories contain some of the most parts ever used for a standard minifigure weapon build.
Display Suggestions
Display on a Trans-Orange baseplate to simulate fire. Pair with his rival Cragger (Fire Chi version) for a dynamic combat scene.
Modification Potential
The shoulder armor is highly popular in 'Mecha' MOCs (My Own Creations) for adding bulk to robots. Bits of the gold armor are frequently stolen for custom Gold Knight builds.
Overall Assessment
A standout figure from the end of the Chima era. It is a masterpiece of molding and printing, representing the most powerful version of the theme's main character. Highly recommended for fans of fantasy or animal-warrior themes.