Cole - Digi Ninja (The Prime Empire)
njo563 · Ninjago
Prime Empire · 2020: Part of the Prime Empire wave, which introduced the neon/digital aesthetic to the Ninjago universe.
Figure ID
njo563
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2020: Part of the Prime Empire wave, which introduced the neon/digital aesthetic to the Ninjago universe.
Rarity
Uncommon: Historically available in two widely distributed sets, making it accessible but no longer in production.
Head
Standard yellow minifigure head with Cole's signature thick black eyebrows and determined expression; covered by a black and orange wrap-around ninja cowl (Part 65435).
Torso
Black torso with detailed Digi-Armor printing in metallic silver and bright orange, featuring circuitry patterns and a digital katana icon on the back. Yellow hands representing skin/gloves.
Legs
Black legs with bright orange and silver metallic printing on the front of the legs and hips, continuing the digital/neon circuitry motif.
Accessories
Usually paired with a specialized black 'Cyber-Dragon' hilt and a trans-orange neon blade (not shown in image); also includes a black scabbard/shoulder armor piece for katanas.
Color Scheme
A striking contrast of black and bright orange (representing Cole's elemental Earth power infused with Prime Empire technology).
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing with metallic silver accents that catch the light, creating a futuristic, glow-in-the-dark effect without actually being luminescent.
Variants
Standard Cole minifigures vary wildly by season; this Digi version is distinct from his 'Legacy' or 'Master of the Mountain' variants due to the digital circuitry prints.
Condition Notes
The orange print on the toes is prone to chipping with play. High-clutch power is expected, but silver prints on the torso can fade if handled frequently with bare hands.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $6.00 USD; New: $8.00 - $12.00 USD. Prices are stable but slightly higher than standard City figures due to Ninjago collector demand.
Price (New)
Retail sets ranged from $29.99 (71708) to $39.99 (71709). Not available as an individual retail purchase.
Compatible Sets
71708 Gamer's Market, 71709 Jay and Lloyd's Velocity Racers.
Character Background
Cole, the Elemental Master of Earth, entered the 'Prime Empire' video game world where his appearance shifted to this digitized avatar to fight against Unagami.
Design Notes
The Prime Empire wave was notable for introducing 'Cyber' elements and neon-translucent weapons that revitalized the Ninjago aesthetic with a cyberpunk feel.
Similar Minifigures
Digi Jay (njo560), Digi Kai (njo561), Digi Lloyd (njo564), and Digi Zane (njo562).
Collectibility
High for Ninjago completionists. The 'Digi' versions are quite popular because they represent a specific aesthetic bubble within the show's history.
History
Followed the 'Secrets of Forbidden Spinjitzu' line and preceded the 'Master of the Mountain' line, representing the transition into the 'wilder' experimental years of Ninjago design.
Interesting Facts
The code-like printing on the chest is designed to resemble computer hardware components, a first for the fantasy-heavy Ninjago theme.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside other Digi Ninja on a neon-lit or trans-blue baseplate to simulate the digital world of Prime Empire.
Modification Potential
The torso and legs are excellent for futuristic cyberpunk MOCs or sci-fi bounty hunter characters.
Overall Assessment
A solid, visually appealing minifigure with great technical detail. It captures the 2020 Ninjago aesthetic perfectly and is a must-have for fans of the Prime Empire arc.