Master Chen
njo117 · Ninjago
Tournament of Elements · 2015
Figure ID
njo117
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2015
Rarity
Uncommon. While not restricted to a single set, he was only available in two sets during the 2015 wave, making him the key antagonist for collectors of that era.
Head
Yellow skin with a sinister expression. Features bushy black eyebrows, a goatee/beard with purple accents, and red eyes. Topped with a unique molded bone-helmet with long purple snakes (tentacles) hanging down.
Torso
Dark Red base color with intricate printing of a kimono style robe. Includes gold trim, purple sashes, and scale-like patterns. The printing continues on the back of the torso. Black hands.
Legs
Black legs with gold and dark red printing that continues the robe aesthetic. Features ornate gold rectangular patterns on the front and scale/chain textures in the center purple sash area.
Accessories
Includes a black fabric cape and a large, unique molded bone-helmet featuring two purple snakes. In sets, he often carried a 'Claw of Chen' staff or a jade blade (not pictured).
Color Scheme
Primary colors are Dark Red and Black, with secondary accents of Purple and Pearl Gold. Bone-coloredTan for the headpiece.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing with high complexity. Details include gold foil-like outlines on the robes and scale patterns that signify his connection to the Anacondrai.
Variants
There is a 'ghost' variant (njo186) from the Airjitzu line and a variant without the cape/helmet in some smaller promotional materials, but njo117 is the definitive 'human' version.
Condition Notes
The cape is prone to fraying at the edges. The purple snakes on the helmet are a softer plastic and can attract dust or sustain bite marks. Gold printing on the legs may rub off with heavy play.
Estimated Value
Used (Complete): $12.00 - $18.00 USD. New (Pulled from box): $22.00 - $28.00. Value fluctuates based on the condition of the cape and helmet mold.
Price (New)
Most commonly found in Enter the Serpent (70749) which retailed for $59.99 USD in 2015.
Compatible Sets
70749 Enter the Serpent, 70746 Condrai Copter Attack.
Character Background
The primary antagonist of Ninjago Season 4. He is the leader of the Cultist Warriors and a master manipulator who orchestrated the Tournament of Elements to steal elemental powers and transform his followers into Anacondrai.
Design Notes
The helmet is a masterpiece of early-to-mid 2010s Ninjago design, using a dual-mold/painted look to achieve the snake-on-bone aesthetic. It is highly character-specific.
Similar Minifigures
Lord Garmadon, Clouse, Pythor, and later Ninjago villains like Iron Baron or Nadakhan.
Collectibility
High. As a main-season antagonist, he is essential for anyone completing the 'Tournament of Elements' collection. Demand remains stable due to Ninjago's enduring legacy.
History
Debuted in January 2015. This figure marked a transition in Ninjago toward more 'tribal' and 'cultist' aesthetic designs compared to the previous robot or snake themes.
Interesting Facts
In the TV show, Chen is Garmadon's former master. The purple and gold colors were chosen specifically to mimic the royalty of the Anacondrai tribe which he idolized.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside his henchman Clouse or on his throne from set 70749. Use a clear stand to highlight the detail of the cape and the height of the bone helmet.
Modification Potential
The headpiece is frequently used in MOCs for necromancers or tribal leaders. The dark red robes are popular for custom fantasy royal figures.
Overall Assessment
A top-tier Ninjago villain minifigure. The unique dual-purpose helmet and cape make him stand out visually as a centerpiece antagonist. Highly recommended for fans of the 'Tournament of Elements' arc.