Rattla
njo035 · Ninjago
Rise of the Snakes · 2012 (First Year of Ninjago's snake-themed expansion)
Figure ID
njo035
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2012 (First Year of Ninjago's snake-themed expansion)
Rarity
Uncommon. While not a limited edition, this figure was only available in four sets from the short-lived 2012 wave, making it harder to find in mint condition today.
Head
Unique Sand Green molded snake head for the Hypnobrai tribe. Features a rounded snout, printed hypnotic red eyes, and a black VR-like visor/headset print. The head is a specialized mold that fits over a standard torso neck.
Torso
Sand Green torso with Hypnobrai markings. Printing includes red circular motifs, mechanical armor plates, and a prominent yellow 'cheese' wedge or circuit board pattern. Features purple arms and purple hands.
Legs
Bright Orange legs with extensive printing. Design features metallic armor plates, rivets, and dark orange straps. Includes a circular red logo on the right thigh. Standard hip piece in bright orange.
Accessories
Typically packaged with a Hypnobrai staff or a golden bone axe, though none are shown in the image. The figure in the image is missing its primary weapon accessories.
Color Scheme
A vibrant and eclectic mix of Sand Green (body), Bright Orange (legs), and Purple (arms). Accents include metallic silver, red, and yellow.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing typical of 2012 Ninjago. Features front and back torso printing. Leg printing is limited to the front. The head mold features precise geometric printing for the visor.
Variants
There are no major official variants of Rattla, though he shares the head mold with Slithraa and Skales (who have different printing/colors). This specific figure matches the standard njo035 release.
Condition Notes
Common wear points include the purple hands (prone to cracking) and the Sand Green head (soft plastic can scuff easily). The orange leg printing is durable but can fade with UV exposure.
Estimated Value
Used: $5 - $8 USD; New/Mint: $12 - $15 USD. The value is relatively stable but high for a 'grunt' character due to nostalgic demand for the Rise of the Snakes era.
Price (New)
Originally available in sets ranging from $9.99 (9441) to $69.99 (9444). Not sold individually, though Ninjago figures were often found in spinner battle packs.
Compatible Sets
9441 Kai's Blade Cycle, 9444 Cole's Tread Assault, 9553 Jay ZX (Spinner), and 9568 Fangdam (Spinner backdrop).
Character Background
Rattla is a scout for the Hypnobrai, the first Serpentine tribe discovered by Lloyd Garmaddon. He is known for his hypnotic abilities and mechanical aptitude, often seen manning equipment or acting as a foot soldier.
Design Notes
This figure marked a significant step in LEGO's use of non-standard head molds and vibrant, clashing color palettes to distinguish fictional factions. The headset print was a unique sci-fi touch for a fantasy theme.
Similar Minifigures
Slithraa (njo027), Mezmo (njo036), Skales (njo034). Collectors of the Hypnobrai tribe often seek these to complete the blue/green/purple aesthetic.
Collectibility
High for Ninjago completionists. The 'Rise of the Snakes' era is considered a golden age for the theme, and Rattla is essential for building a Serpentine army.
History
Debuted in the second wave of Ninjago. It represented the shift from the Underworld/Skeleton enemies to the more popular and diverse Serpentine antagonists that defined the series' success.
Interesting Facts
Despite being a snake, Rattla's name and visor design are often joked about by fans as looking like a 'gamer snake.' He is one of the few figures where purple arms are paired with a green torso.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside other Hypnobrai members on a dark bluish-gray baseplate to simulate the Serpentine tombs. Use a UV-protected case to prevent the orange legs from fading.
Modification Potential
The orange legs are highly versatile for sci-fi or post-apocalyptic MOCs. The purple arms are useful for custom comic book figures like the Joker or Green Goblin.
Overall Assessment
A quintessential 2012 Ninjago figure. While he is a common soldier types, the unique head mold and striking color combination make him a standout piece for any early-2010s LEGO collection.