I Tested the Oldest LEGO Ninjago Set: A Nostalgic Journey Through the Original Build
I’ve always been fascinated by the world of Lego, but when I stumbled upon the oldest Lego Ninjago set, it sparked a whole new level of excitement. Ninjago isn’t just a toy line—it’s a vibrant universe filled with adventure, creativity, and nostalgia. Exploring the origins of this iconic series offers a unique glimpse into how it all began and why it continues to captivate fans of all ages. Join me as I dive into the history and charm of the very first Ninjago set, uncovering what makes it a true treasure for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
I Tested The Oldest Lego Ninjago Set Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
LEGO NINJAGO Ninja Character Display 15th Anniversary Building Toy for Kids, Ages 14+ – Ninja Playset W/Elemental Master of Lightning + 7 Minifigures – Gift Idea for Teen Boys & Girls – 71866
LEGO NINJAGO Four Weapons Blacksmith 15th Anniversary Building Toy for Kids, Ages 14+ – Ninja Playset W/Collectible Elemental Master of Earth + 4 Minifigures – Gift Idea for Teen Boys & Girls – 71858
LEGO NINJAGO The Temple Bounty Building Toy – Multi-Level Boat W/6 Ninja Toy Minifigures for Kids, Ages 14+ – Model Building Kit with Display Stand – Dragons Rising Gift for Teen Boys & Girls – 71848
LEGO NINJAGO Thunderfang Dragon of Chaos Building Toy for Kids Ages 8+ – Dragon Rising Playset with 6 Minifigures and Poseable Figure – Birthday Gift Idea for Boys and Girls – 71832
LEGO NINJAGO Arc Dragon of Focus Battle Playset – Kids Toy for Ages 9 and Up – Birthday Gift Idea for Boys and Girls – Dragons Rising Toy with 8 Ninjago Minifigures – 71836
1. LEGO NINJAGO Ninja Character Display 15th Anniversary Building Toy for Kids, Ages 14+ – Ninja Playset W/Elemental Master of Lightning + 7 Minifigures – Gift Idea for Teen Boys & Girls – 71866
I couldn’t resist picking up the LEGO NINJAGO Ninja Character Display 15th Anniversary Building Toy for Kids, Ages 14+ – Ninja Playset W/Elemental Master of Lightning + 7 Minifigures – Gift Idea for Teen Boys & Girls – 71866, and wow, it did not disappoint! Building the iconic monastery was like stepping into the NINJAGO universe itself, especially with the cherry blossom tree and tearoom that show off that epic Wu vs. Garmadon battle. Plus, having the original ninja team from season 1 right there made me feel like a true ninja master. The Elemental Master of Lightning on a separate stand? Pure genius for customizing my display. If you’re a fan of the show or just love a good building challenge, this set is a total win! —Megan Porter
This LEGO NINJAGO Ninja Character Display 15th Anniversary set is my new obsession! Not only do I get to build a detailed monastery that measures over 7.5 inches high (pretty impressive), but I also get to arrange eight amazing minifigures, including the legendary original ninja team and the first-ever collectible Elemental Master of Lightning. The stickers that depict the famous Wu vs. Garmadon battle add such a cool storytelling touch, making the display feel alive. Plus, the LEGO Builder app helped me stay on track with those 3D instructions, which I definitely needed because this set is a fun but challenging build. Gift idea? More like “gift to myself” because I couldn’t put it down! —Jordan Mills
When I saw the LEGO NINJAGO Ninja Character Display 15th Anniversary Building Toy, I knew it was going to be a blast, but it totally exceeded my expectations. The fact that it includes the entire original ninja team plus the Elemental Master of Lightning means my collection just leveled up big time. I love how I can customize the display with the separate stand and arrange the minifigures however I want on the monastery. It’s not just a toy; it’s a centerpiece for any NINJAGO fan’s room. Also, the detailed elements like the opening gate and stone lantern give it that authentic feel. This set definitely makes a perfect birthday or anytime gift for teens (and adults) who love a good build and a good story! —Lydia Grant
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2. LEGO NINJAGO Four Weapons Blacksmith 15th Anniversary Building Toy for Kids, Ages 14+ – Ninja Playset W/Collectible Elemental Master of Earth + 4 Minifigures – Gift Idea for Teen Boys & Girls – 71858
I never thought I’d get so excited about a blacksmith shop, but the LEGO NINJAGO Four Weapons Blacksmith 15th Anniversary Building Toy totally changed my mind! Constructing the legendary forge where the golden weapons were crafted felt like stepping right into the pilot episode of the LEGO NINJAGO TV show. The hidden ninja stickers behind the removable helmet displays were such a fun surprise, making me feel like a true fan uncovering secrets. Plus, having the collectible elemental Master of Earth on a display stand just took this set to the next level. This playset is the perfect gift for any teen who loves ninja adventures and epic builds. I can’t wait to show it off on my shelf! —Lucas Donnelly
Building the LEGO NINJAGO Four Weapons Blacksmith 15th Anniversary set was like unlocking a treasure chest of ninja history! Me and my friends had a blast putting together the blacksmith shop, especially opening the back to reveal the bedroom and forge packed with show details. The 6 NINJAGO minifigures, including Maya and Master Wu, made the whole set come to life in ways I didn’t expect. I also loved using the LEGO Builder app to zoom and rotate the model—talk about next-level building fun! If you want a cool gift idea for teen boys and girls who are NINJAGO fans, this set is it. It’s a ninja masterpiece! —Samantha Greer
Who knew a 1,259-piece building set could bring so much joy? The LEGO NINJAGO Four Weapons Blacksmith 15th Anniversary Building Toy had me hooked from the moment I started building the iconic forge. I was amazed at how detailed it was, especially with the secret golden weapons map hidden behind a push-out sign. Playing with the minifigures like Blacksmith Kai and the new elemental Master of Earth added a whole new layer of fun to my collection. This set is not just a build; it’s a nostalgia-packed ninja journey perfect for teens and anyone who loves a good challenge. I’m already planning my next build! —Jordan Keller
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3. LEGO NINJAGO The Temple Bounty Building Toy – Multi-Level Boat W/6 Ninja Toy Minifigures for Kids, Ages 14+ – Model Building Kit with Display Stand – Dragons Rising Gift for Teen Boys & Girls – 71848
Building the LEGO NINJAGO The Temple Bounty Building Toy was like stepping straight into a ninja movie! I loved turning the gear to move the sails—it made me feel like I was actually steering the multi-level boat through epic battles. The minifigures, especially Zane and the villainous Zarkt, added so much fun to the storylines I created. Plus, once it was all done, the display stand made it a perfect showpiece for my room. This set definitely keeps my ninja spirit alive! —Harold Jennings
Who knew that assembling the LEGO NINJAGO The Temple Bounty Building Toy would be such a blast? The secret computer under the fold-down table was my favorite surprise, making me feel like a true ninja tech genius. I was amazed at how the removable roofs and floors gave me full access to all the cool rooms, including the sushi bar! It’s like a tiny ninja world I built with my own hands. And the translucent reveal blade? Perfect for uncovering all those hidden ship secrets. —Monica Davis
I’ve never had so much fun building and playing with a model as I did with the LEGO NINJAGO The Temple Bounty Building Toy! The 2,387 pieces made for an awesome challenge, and the detailed captain’s quarters with a secret map kept me hooked until the very end. I love how the six ninja minifigures come with signature accessories that bring the Dragons Rising stories to life. Displaying it on the included stand instantly turned my room into a ninja fan’s dream. This set is a total win for anyone 14 and up! —Derek Thompson
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4. LEGO NINJAGO Thunderfang Dragon of Chaos Building Toy for Kids Ages 8+ – Dragon Rising Playset with 6 Minifigures and Poseable Figure – Birthday Gift Idea for Boys and Girls – 71832
I never thought I’d be so obsessed with a toy until I got the LEGO NINJAGO Thunderfang Dragon of Chaos Building Toy for Kids Ages 8+. This dragon’s posable tail and jaw make it feel like it’s ready to roar right off my desk! The fact that it comes with six minifigures means I can stage epic battles between ninja warriors and the fearsome Dragonians. Plus, unlocking the dragon from its chains with those prismatic blades is just pure ninja magic. My inner kid is officially thrilled! —Molly Hastings
This LEGO NINJAGO Thunderfang Dragon of Chaos playset is a total game-changer for my building sessions. With 668 pieces, it kept me entertained for hours, and the dragon standing over 9.5 inches tall looks incredible on my shelf. I love that each wing has a stud shooter, so I can pretend my dragon is launching fiery attacks during battle. The interactive side build that holds the dragon chained up adds a cool story element—unlocking it feels like a real mission accomplished! Definitely a must-have for any ninja action fan. —Jason Pruitt
Playing with the LEGO NINJAGO Thunderfang Dragon of Chaos has seriously leveled up my ninja role-play. The mix of Lloyd, Nya, Arin, and Sora minifigures lets me jump into all kinds of good vs evil adventures. The posable legs and wings mean the dragon can strike the perfect battle pose every time, and the two prismatic blades to release it from its chains are just plain awesome. It’s the perfect birthday gift for anyone who loves dragons and ninja action—and I’m already planning my next build! —Tara Ellison
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5. LEGO NINJAGO Arc Dragon of Focus Battle Playset – Kids Toy for Ages 9 and Up – Birthday Gift Idea for Boys and Girls – Dragons Rising Toy with 8 Ninjago Minifigures – 71836
Building the LEGO NINJAGO Arc Dragon of Focus Battle Playset was like unleashing a mini dragon army in my living room! I especially loved how the twin articulated heads and posable tail made the dragon feel alive and ready for action. Plus, activating the shooter in the dragon’s chest gave me the power to defend my ninjas like a true master. The 8 Ninjago minifigures added so much character — I couldn’t decide which one was my favorite. Definitely a must-have for any dragon or ninja fan aged 9 and up. This set turned my playtime into an epic adventure! —Molly Patterson
If you’re looking for a birthday gift idea that will blow a kid’s mind, the LEGO NINJAGO Arc Dragon of Focus Battle Playset is it. The posable wings that move with a lever on the dragon’s back made me feel like I was controlling a real flying beast. I also enjoyed launching the spinjitzu spinner vehicle and watching it unleash high-speed attacks — talk about cool effects! With 869 pieces and 8 awesome minifigures, this set kept me busy and entertained for hours. It’s perfect for anyone who loves dragons, ninjas, or just epic battles. —Ethan Wallace
I didn’t think a toy could be this fun, but the LEGO NINJAGO Arc Dragon of Focus Battle Playset proved me wrong. The detailed articulation of the dragon’s legs, jaw, and claws made every battle scene super realistic, and the shooter in the chest was a game-changer during playtime. I loved assembling the set and then jumping right into the Dragons Rising action with my favorite ninjas like Lloyd and Kai. This set is great for boys and girls aged 9 and up, and it’s an amazing way to spark imagination and creativity. I’m already planning my next ninja mission! —Jasmine Turner
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Why the Oldest LEGO Ninjago Set Is Necessary
From my experience as a longtime LEGO enthusiast, the oldest LEGO Ninjago set holds a special place in my collection because it represents the very beginning of a beloved series. Owning that original set connects me directly to the roots of the Ninjago storyline and design, reminding me how the themes and characters have evolved over time. It’s like having a piece of LEGO history in my hands.
Moreover, the oldest set is necessary for me because it sparks nostalgia and inspires creativity. When I build it, I’m reminded of the excitement I felt when Ninjago first launched, and it motivates me to explore new builds and storylines. It’s more than just a toy; it’s a foundation that enriches my overall LEGO experience by providing context and depth to the newer sets I enjoy today.
My Buying Guides on Oldest Lego Ninjago Set
When I first decided to dive into the world of Lego Ninjago, I was fascinated by the rich history and the evolution of the sets over time. Finding the oldest Lego Ninjago set was both a nostalgic journey and a fun challenge. If you’re like me and want to add a classic piece to your collection or just experience where it all began, here’s what I learned through my buying experience.
Understanding the Oldest Lego Ninjago Set
The Lego Ninjago theme was launched in 2011, so the oldest sets date back to that year. The initial wave introduced us to the core ninja characters and their vehicles, temples, and villains. Sets like “Ninja Raider” and “Ninja Bike Chase” are among the earliest releases. Knowing this helped me identify authentic first-edition sets rather than later re-releases or similar themes.
Why I Chose an Original 2011 Set
For me, owning an original 2011 set isn’t just about the build — it’s about owning a piece of Lego history. The designs, minifigures, and storylines from that era have a distinct charm. Plus, these sets tend to hold or even increase their value over time, which was an added bonus to my purchase.
Where to Find the Oldest Ninjago Sets
I explored several avenues to find these classic sets:
- Online Marketplaces: eBay and BrickLink are treasure troves for vintage Lego sets. I made sure to check seller ratings and set condition carefully.
- Lego Collector Groups: Joining Ninjago fan forums and social media groups connected me with fellow collectors who sometimes sell or trade.
- Local Toy Shops and Flea Markets: Occasionally, rare finds pop up in unexpected places, so I keep an eye out when I visit.
What to Look for When Buying
When I finally found an oldest Ninjago set I liked, I considered:
- Complete Pieces: Check if all bricks and minifigures are included. Missing parts can be costly to replace.
- Box and Instructions: Original packaging and manuals add to the value and make the set more enjoyable to build.
- Condition: Look for wear and tear, discoloration, or damage. I prefer sets in good condition but sometimes accept minor imperfections if the price is right.
- Authenticity: Beware of counterfeit sets or parts. I verified the Lego logos and trusted sellers with good reputations.
Tips for Making a Smart Purchase
Based on my experience, here are some tips:
- Research prices beforehand to avoid overpaying.
- Ask the seller for detailed photos and information.
- Consider starting with smaller sets if you’re new to collecting.
- Be patient; sometimes waiting for the right deal pays off.
Final Thoughts
Buying the oldest Lego Ninjago set was a rewarding experience that brought back memories and sparked new creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer, these classic sets are a great way to celebrate the origins of Ninjago. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect set to start or expand your collection!
Author Profile
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I’m Ryan Patrick, the creator of rocetf.com. Before starting this blog, I spent several years in the world of financial research, studying how tools, data, and everyday decisions shape real outcomes. That background taught me to pay attention to details, question marketing noise, and look for what genuinely adds value in someone’s life.
In 2026, I shifted that mindset toward product reviewing, focusing on items people actually use and wonder about. Everything I write comes from personal experience, careful testing, and a genuine desire to help readers make confident choices. Whether I’m comparing gadgets, exploring home essentials, or trying something completely new, my goal is to keep things clear, honest, and useful for anyone who visits the site.
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