Cole - Casual (Wu-Cru Sleeveless Torso)
njo254 · Ninjago
Skybound / Wu-Cru · 2016 (First appeared in Ninjago Accessory Set 853544)
Figure ID
njo254
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2016 (First appeared in Ninjago Accessory Set 853544)
Rarity
Uncommon; exclusive to a specific minifigure accessory pack rather than a standard retail boxed set.
Head
Yellow skin tone with black bushy eyebrows, a determined/angry expression with teeth showing on one side, and black shaggy hair (Cole's signature style).
Torso
Dark blue sleeveless tank top (sleeveless t-shirt) with 'Wu-Cru' printed in white Ninjago script on the chest. Classic yellow arms and hands.
Legs
Solid black legs with no printing. Includes a black hip piece.
Accessories
In the image, a trans-light blue lightning bolt is visible nearby, though this Cole version typically came with a brown staff or silver sword in its original pack.
Color Scheme
Primary colors are Dark Blue, Black, and Yellow. Includes white printing for the text on the torso.
Printing Details
Pad printing on the front of the torso and one-sided head printing. The print is crisp but simpler than modern 360-degree printed figures.
Variants
Cole has dozens of variants; this specific 'Casual' version is distinct due to the sleeveless 'Wu-Cru' branding which was part of a specific marketing campaign.
Condition Notes
Prone to 'neck cracks' on the torso and friction wear on the yellow arm joints. The black plastic shows scratches easily under bright light.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $7.00 USD; New: $10.00 - $15.00 USD (Includes full accessory pack value).
Price (New)
Originally sold in the Ninjago Minifigure Selection accessory pack (853544) for $12.99 USD.
Compatible Sets
853544 Ninjago Accessory Set (2016).
Character Background
Cole is the Elemental Master of Earth and the leader of the original four Ninja. This version represents his training or casual attire outside of his combat gi.
Design Notes
Uses a 'sleeveless' aesthetic which was popular during the 2016 LEGO product cycle to emphasize a training/dojo vibe.
Similar Minifigures
njo253 (Jay - Wu-Cru), njo255 (Lloyd - Wu-Cru), and njo256 (Nya - Wu-Cru).
Collectibility
Moderate. Desirable for Ninjago completionists who want every version of the core ninja, though lacks the investment 'spark' of limited-run gold figures.
History
Part of a 2016 push to diversify Ninjago merchandise beyond just building sets, introducing 'Minifigure Packs' as a budget-friendly way to get main characters.
Interesting Facts
The writing on the shirt uses the Ninjago alphabet (Ninjargon) and translates directly to 'Wu-Cru'.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a Dojo-themed MOC or alongside the other 3 Ninja from the same accessory pack for a unified 'training' look.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'civilian' city MOCs as the sleeveless shirt is generic enough to pass for a standard gym or summer outfit if the head is swapped.
Overall Assessment
A solid, authentic Ninjago figure that is essential for fans of the Skybound era, specifically noteworthy for its unique branded torso print.