Kai - DX (Dragon Xtreme)
njo009 · Ninjago
Pilot Episodes / Masters of Spinjitzu · 2011
Figure ID
njo009
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2011
Rarity
Uncommon. While not a limited convention exclusive, the DX variants were specific to the early 'Dragon' sets and Spinner packs, making them harder to find than standard versions from that era.
Head
Yellow classic skin tone with Kai's signature determined expression, specific scarred eyebrow, and spiky dark brown hair piece. In the image, he is wearing a red lower-face mask/bandana.
Torso
Red ninja robe with gold dragon printing detailing a large dragon wrapping from the back to the front. Features a dark red belt tie and a gold circular emblem in the center.
Legs
Solid red legs and hips. Unlike later Ninjago figures, the early DX versions leaned on torso detail rather than intricate leg printing.
Accessories
Typically came with a gold katana or the Golden Weapon of Spinjitzu (Sword of Fire). The image shows the red wrap/mask and the standard hair piece.
Color Scheme
Primary Red and Dark Red accents with gold (Pearl Gold) dragon iconography and metallic highlights.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing for the era. The dragon design features a shimmering gold effect that was a significant step up from standard 2011 printing.
Variants
Standard Kai (njo001), Kendo Kai, and Micro-figure versions. The DX variant is distinguished specifically by the large gold dragon printed on the torso.
Condition Notes
The gold printing on the torso is prone to scratching if played with heavily. The neck area often shows 'clutch' stress marks if the mask is removed frequently. Check for 'silvering' or fading on the gold dragon.
Estimated Value
$10 - $20 USD used; New/Sealed value can reach $35+ depending on the source (e.g., BrickLink or eBay averages).
Price (New)
Released in sets ranging from $14.99 (Spinner sets) to $69.99 (Fire Temple).
Compatible Sets
2254 Mountain Shrine, 2507 Fire Temple, 2111 Kai (Spinner), and 2518 Nuckal's ATV.
Character Background
Kai is the Elemental Master of Fire and a main protagonist in Ninjago. The DX (Dragon Xtreme) suits represent the ninjas' evolved forms after taming their respective elemental dragons.
Design Notes
The DX suits were the first 'specialized' outfits in the Ninjago line, starting the trend of releasing multiple elemental variations of the same characters per season.
Similar Minifigures
Jay DX (njo010), Zane DX (njo011), and Cole DX (njo012).
Collectibility
High for Ninjago completionists. As the first major 'alternate suit' for the original cast, it holds significant nostalgia for the 2011 wave.
History
Debuted in the very first year of Ninjago, marking the transition from traditional 'Ninja' themes to the character-driven fantasy IP that saved LEGO's financial trajectory.
Interesting Facts
The dragon printed on his chest is the 'Fire Dragon' (Flame), which Kai had to tame in the pilot episodes to rescue his sister, Nya.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed with the other 3 DX ninjas or alongside the 2011 2507 Fire Temple set. Use a gold-accented stand to match the torso printing.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'purist' customs. The hair and head are standard Kai parts used for many years, but the torso is a classic collectible piece that should remain intact.
Overall Assessment
A quintessential Ninjago collectible. It is a great example of early Ninjago design that balances simplicity with the 'cool factor' of gold dragon prints. A must-have for fans of the show's origins.