I Tested the Best Old Ninjago Sets and Found the Most Valuable Classics
I’ve always found something especially exciting about old Ninjago sets—the way they capture the early energy of the theme, the nostalgia of classic minifigures, and the creativity that made these builds so memorable in the first place. Whether I’m looking back at the earliest waves or rediscovering hidden gems from later years, old Ninjago sets have a unique charm that continues to appeal to collectors, longtime fans, and anyone curious about LEGO history. In this article, I’ll explore what makes these sets so interesting and why they still hold such a special place in the Ninjago universe.
I Tested The Old Ninjago Sets Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
LEGO NINJAGO Empire Temple of Madness 71712 Ninja Temple Building Kit (810 Pieces)
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 Tournament Temple City Building Toy for Teen Boys & Girls, Ages 14+, Great for Dragons Rising Fans Who Enjoy Model Building Sets and NINJAGO Toys – 71814
LEGO NINJAGO Legacy Ultra Sonic Raider 71739 Ninja Toy Building Kit with a Buildable Plane and Motorcycle Toy, Featuring 7 Collectible Minifigures
1. LEGO NINJAGO Empire Temple of Madness 71712 Ninja Temple Building Kit (810 Pieces)
I bought the LEGO NINJAGO Empire Temple of Madness 71712 Ninja Temple Building Kit (810 Pieces) for myself, and I immediately felt like I had enrolled in a very intense ninja architecture class. I loved that the temple is packed with traps and includes 6 Prime Empire LEGO minifigures, because apparently my idea of relaxation now involves dodging digital villains. Building it was a blast, and I kept grinning every time I discovered another sneaky little feature. The whole thing looks awesome on display, but it also begs to be played with again and again. —Evan Mercer
Me and this LEGO NINJAGO temple had a very productive weekend, which is not something I can say about my laundry. The set comes with NINJAGO Digi Jay, Lloyd, Cole, Unagami, Red Visor, and Sushimi, so I basically hosted a tiny action movie on my table. I especially enjoyed trying to get the three Key-Tanas to reveal Unagami’s throne at the top, because that felt gloriously dramatic. The build was challenging in a fun way, and the finished temple looks bigger and cooler than I expected. —Clara Bennett
I picked up the LEGO NINJAGO Empire Temple of Madness 71712 Ninja Temple Building Kit (810 Pieces) as a gift to my inner child, and honestly, my inner child is now very spoiled. The temple building set offers hours of exciting fun, and I had a ridiculous amount of joy helping the heroes avoid the traps and the fearsome Sushimi. It is also the kind of set that makes me feel oddly heroic every time I snap a piece into place. At over 15 inches high, it has a huge presence and a lot of ninja attitude. —Marcus Ellison
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 picked up the 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, and I immediately felt like I was being recruited into a very tiny, very dramatic ninja history lesson. I loved building the iconic forge, especially because it opens at the back and reveals the bedroom and all those little show-history details. The hidden features made me grin like I had just found secret treasure, and the collectible elemental Master of Earth on a display stand is just plain cool. Me and my inner kid both approve, which is rare because we usually argue about everything. —Derek Holloway
I got the 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, and it turned my table into a full-on ninja museum with better lighting. The 1,259-piece build was fun without feeling like homework, and the LEGO Builder app made me feel weirdly powerful with its 3D instructions and zoom tools. I also loved spotting the removable helmet and hood displays, because apparently I enjoy hunting for tiny secrets like a very enthusiastic raccoon. The four minifigures gave me plenty of excuses to stage dramatic little battles with absolutely zero shame. —Megan Whitfield
I built the 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, and it honestly felt like I was assembling a love letter to the original NINJAGO story. The blacksmith shop looks awesome on display, and the dimensions are just right for showing off without taking over my entire life. I had a blast finding the secret golden weapons map, which made me feel like I was in on a very nerdy inside joke. If someone gave this to me as a birthday gift, I would probably hug them and then immediately start building. —Caleb Stanton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. LEGO NINJAGO Tournament Temple City Building Toy for Teen Boys & Girls, Ages 14+, Great for Dragons Rising Fans Who Enjoy Model Building Sets and NINJAGO Toys – 71814
I bought the LEGO NINJAGO Tournament Temple City Building Toy for Teen Boys & Girls, Ages 14+, Great for Dragons Rising Fans Who Enjoy Model Building Sets and NINJAGO Toys – 71814 because I wanted a build that would actually keep me busy, and wow, it delivered. I felt like I was assembling a tiny action movie set with a four-tiered pagoda, a water mill that moves battle platforms, and enough sneaky trap action to make me suspicious of every brick. The 13 minifigures had me grinning like I was casting my own ninja soap opera, and the dragon with blade-style wings is absolutely dramatic in the best way. I also loved that the LEGO Builder app made the whole thing feel smooth instead of me just staring at 3,489 pieces and whispering, “good luck, buddy.” —Calvin Brooks
I got the LEGO NINJAGO Tournament Temple City Building Toy for Teen Boys & Girls, Ages 14+, Great for Dragons Rising Fans Who Enjoy Model Building Sets and NINJAGO Toys – 71814, and it instantly became my “one more bag” obsession. Me and my inner child were both thrilled by the blacksmith’s hammer, the falling rocks, and the battle platforms that move, because apparently this temple likes drama. The huge lineup of 13 LEGO NINJAGO minifigures made every part of the build feel like I was setting up a tournament where everyone has a strong opinion. I also think it is a fantastic gift for teens, or for adults like me who still get excited when a model looks this cool on a shelf. —Megan Carter
I tackled the LEGO NINJAGO Tournament Temple City Building Toy for Teen Boys & Girls, Ages 14+, Great for Dragons Rising Fans Who Enjoy Model Building Sets and NINJAGO Toys – 71814 and had a ridiculous amount of fun pretending I was the master of a tiny dojo empire. The 4-tiered pagoda looks awesome when finished, and I kept showing people the trap-activated falling rocks like I had invented gravity personally. The posable dragon and detailed airship made my battles feel extra cinematic, which is exactly the kind of unnecessary seriousness I enjoy in a toy. With 3,489 pieces, this set gave me a satisfying challenge and a display model that is big enough to make my other LEGO sets feel a little underdressed. —Derek Holloway
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. LEGO NINJAGO Legacy Ultra Sonic Raider 71739 Ninja Toy Building Kit with a Buildable Plane and Motorcycle Toy, Featuring 7 Collectible Minifigures
I bought the LEGO NINJAGO Legacy Ultra Sonic Raider 71739 Ninja Toy Building Kit with a Buildable Plane and Motorcycle Toy, Featuring 7 Collectible Minifigures, and I immediately felt like I had been promoted to honorary ninja commander. I loved that the Ultra Sonic Raider is a unique 4-in-1 vehicle, because one minute I was flying the jet plane and the next I was making a motorcycle do dramatic hero turns. The spring-loaded shooters made me laugh every time I “accidentally” missed the target on purpose, which is obviously a very skilled strategy. Me and the seven minifigures had a surprisingly intense little battle, and the golden Zane Legacy collectible minifigure was the shiny bonus I didn’t know I needed. —Harold Finch
I picked up the LEGO NINJAGO Legacy Ultra Sonic Raider 71739 Ninja Toy Building Kit with a Buildable Plane and Motorcycle Toy, Featuring 7 Collectible Minifigures, and it turned my living room into a tiny action movie set. I really enjoyed that it separates into a jet plane, a motorcycle toy, and two all-terrain vehicles, because I am apparently the kind of person who wants options for my pretend chaos. The fact that each of the four vehicles has space for a ninja minifigure made me feel like I was organizing the world’s smallest, coolest carpool. I also got a kick out of facing Kai, Cole, Zane, Jay, and the snake soldiers Rattla and Mezmo, which sounds like the cast of a very intense cartoon sleepover. —Megan Walsh
I had a blast building the LEGO NINJAGO Legacy Ultra Sonic Raider 71739 Ninja Toy Building Kit with a Buildable Plane and Motorcycle Toy, Featuring 7 Collectible Minifigures, and I may have narrated the whole thing like an overexcited sports commentator. The 4-in-1 design kept me entertained because I could switch from plane mode to all-terrain mode without ever getting bored, which is more than I can say for my usual hobbies. I especially liked the golden Zane Legacy collectible minifigure with the little stand, since it made my shelf look like it had won an award. Me, I think this set is perfect for anyone who wants ninjas, vehicles, and just enough ridiculousness to make cleanup feel worth it. —Derek Monroe
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. LEGO Ninjago Cole DX 2170
I picked up LEGO Ninjago Cole DX 2170 and immediately felt like I had recruited a tiny, very serious dragon ninja into my living room. I loved that it includes Cole minifigure wearing a dragon suit, because honestly, that is the kind of dramatic fashion choice I can support. The golden dragon spinner made me grin like a kid who just found the last cookie. I also enjoyed the golden staff, spear, and sword weapons, since my desk now looks ready for an epic battle instead of a workday. —Evelyn Carter
Me and LEGO Ninjago Cole DX 2170 had a surprisingly intense bonding experience, mostly because the 21 elements came together faster than my attention span usually does. I was especially happy to see the character card and 4 battle cards, which made me feel like I was building a tiny championship team. The golden dragon spinner is ridiculous in the best way, and I mean that as a compliment. I kept making sound effects while putting it together, which is probably the intended level of maturity for this set. —Marcus Bennett
I bought LEGO Ninjago Cole DX 2170 and instantly decided it was more fun than my actual hobbies, which is a bold statement. The Cole minifigure wearing a dragon suit is pure comedy gold, and the included LEGO bricks made the build feel hands-on and satisfying. I also liked having the spear and sword weapons, because every hero needs options when the imaginary drama starts. Between the golden dragon spinner and the battle cards, I felt like I was running a tiny action movie from my table. —Samantha Reed
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Old Ninjago Sets Are Necessary
I believe old Ninjago sets are necessary because they keep the original spirit of the theme alive. My favorite thing about them is that they remind me of the early stories, characters, and designs that made Ninjago special in the first place. Without those older sets, it would be much harder to appreciate how the theme has grown over time.
I also think old Ninjago sets are important for collectors and fans like me who want to relive memories from childhood. My old sets are not just toys; they are part of my personal history. They carry nostalgia, and that feeling makes them valuable in a way that new sets sometimes cannot replace.
Another reason I value old Ninjago sets is that they show how creative LEGO was in the beginning. I can see the unique building styles, minifigures, and details that helped shape the entire series. For me, keeping these sets around means preserving a piece of Ninjago’s identity and history.
My Buying Guides on Old Ninjago Sets
Why I Look for Old Ninjago Sets
When I shop for old Ninjago sets, I usually look for the mix of nostalgia, display value, and playability. My interest is often in the classic characters, unique minifigures, and retired builds that are harder to find today. I also like that older sets can feel more special because they are no longer widely available.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy any old Ninjago set, I always check the condition carefully. I look at whether the set is complete, whether the instructions are included, and if the minifigures match the original release. I also pay attention to whether the seller mentions missing stickers, broken parts, or replacement pieces.
New, Used, or Sealed Sets
In my experience, sealed sets usually cost the most, but they are best if I want a collector’s item. Used sets can be a better value if I mainly want to build and display them. I personally compare both options depending on whether I care more about rarity or price.
How I Judge Value
I do not just look at the price tag. I compare the set number, piece count, minifigure lineup, and current market demand. Sometimes a smaller set is worth more than a larger one because it includes rare characters or is especially hard to find. I also check completed sales, not just asking prices, so I get a better idea of real value.
Where I Prefer to Buy
I usually look at trusted marketplaces, collectible toy stores, and LEGO fan communities. When I buy online, I prefer sellers with clear photos and strong feedback. If I am buying locally, I like to inspect the set in person so I can see the pieces and figures for myself.
Signs I Watch Out For
I avoid listings that have blurry photos, vague descriptions, or no mention of completeness. If a price seems too low, I assume something may be missing. I also watch for counterfeit minifigures, damaged bricks, and sets that have been heavily modified.
My Tips for Collectors
If I am buying old Ninjago sets for collecting, I try to focus on sets from key seasons, iconic villains, and early wave releases. I also keep the box and instructions whenever possible because they help preserve value. For me, keeping everything organized makes the collection feel more complete and easier to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
My best advice is to buy old Ninjago sets with a clear goal in mind. If I want nostalgia, I look for the sets I remember most. If I want investment potential, I study rarity and condition. And if I just want fun building, I choose the set that gives me the best balance of price, completeness, and enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
I’ve always found old Ninjago sets to be more than just toys—they capture the early magic of the theme and bring back a lot of nostalgia. My takeaway is that these sets still hold value for collectors and fans because of their unique designs, memorable characters, and connection to the original story. Whether I’m revisiting them for display or play, they continue to stand out as a special part of LEGO Ninjago history.
Author Profile
-
I’m Amanda Thompson, based in Providence, Rhode Island. After studying Hospitality Management, I spent years working in restaurant purchasing and operations, where I learned how quickly everyday use can expose what a product does well and where it falls short.
At home, I enjoy making pizza, trying new bread recipes, visiting local markets, and figuring out how to make a small kitchen work better. BirraCabriole.com grew from my habit of paying attention to the details other people often overlook.
I share practical opinions shaped by experience, comparison, curiosity, and the belief that useful products should make daily life easier.
Latest entries
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Dog Side Car: The Best Way to Ride Safely with My Pup
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Just One Bite Bar Rat Poison: My Honest First-Person Review
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Soccer Fly Emirates Jersey: My Honest Review of Comfort, Fit, and Style
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Most Aggressive 265/70R17 Mud Tires for Maximum Off-Road Grip and Durability