Kai - DX (Dragon Xtreme)
njo009 · Ninjago
DX / Pilot Season · 2011 - Part of the initial launch wave of Ninjago, accompanying the animated Pilot episodes.
Figure ID
njo009
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2011 - Part of the initial launch wave of Ninjago, accompanying the animated Pilot episodes.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare - Though included in multiple sets, DX versions were specific to 'Dragon' sets and have become highly sought after as nostalgia for early Ninjago peaks.
Head
Standard yellow head with Kai's signature determined furrowed brow and smirk; paired with a red Ninja wrap (wrap has a gold phoenix/dragon symbol on the forehead).
Torso
Red torso with DX Dragon Suit printing: features a large, wrap-around gold dragon motif breathing fire. The design is exclusive to the 2011 DX line.
Legs
Red legs with fire dragon print trailing down the right leg, continuing the aesthetic from the torso.
Accessories
Two Pearl Gold katanas and a Pearl Gold scabbard/back-mount piece (part 41163), often paired with the Fire Sword (Dragon Sword of Fire) in specific sets.
Color Scheme
Primary Red with Pearl Gold accents for the embroidery and dragon artwork; Black hands.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing for 2011; notable for the intricate metallic gold dragon that spans both the front and back of the torso.
Variants
Standard Kai (njo007), Microfigure Kai, and subsequent suit versions (Kendo, Kimono, ZX). This specific version is identifies by the large golden dragon print.
Condition Notes
Common wear points include the gold printing on the torso which can rub off with play, and sword hilts snapping inside the gold scabbards.
Estimated Value
Used: $15 - $25; New/Mint: $40+ depending on the condition of the gold leaf printing.
Price (New)
Retail context: Found in sets ranging from $19.99 (Spinners) to $69.99 (Fire Temple).
Compatible Sets
2111 Kai (Spinner), 2254 Mountain Shrine, 2507 Fire Temple.
Character Background
Kai is the Elemental Master of Fire and the first ninja recruited by Master Wu. The DX (Dragon Xtreme) suits represent the ninjas' ability to fly their elemental dragons.
Design Notes
The DX suits were the first 'upgrade' suits in Ninjago history, moving away from the simple robes to higher-detail character-specific artwork.
Similar Minifigures
Jay DX (njo010), Zane DX (njo011), Cole DX (njo012).
Collectibility
High demand. Early Ninjago 'Pilot-era' variants are currently seeing a resurgence in value as the 'original' collectible suits.
History
Debuted in January 2011; this specific suit design was retired quickly after the introduction of the ZX (Zenith Xtreme) suits in 2012.
Interesting Facts
The dragon printed on the torso is meant to represent the 'Fire Dragon' specifically, which was the first large scale brick-built dragon in the theme.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a vertical shadow box alongside the other three original ninjas in their matching DX gold-embroidered suits.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'Heritage' MOCs; the torso is frequently used to create high-ranking samurai or fire-themed warriors.
Overall Assessment
A quintessential Ninjago collector piece that captures the early 2010s aesthetic. Standout feature is the bold gold dragon print.