Souped-up bikes are a staple of any LEGO Ninjago toy wave. For the latest collection, which supports Season 7 (2017) of the Ninjago: Masters of Spinjitzu Cartoon Network series, Jay gets a new ride against a pair of new slithering foes in Desert Lightning (70622).
Desert Lightning refers to Jay’s ride, a sleek and rather hefty two-wheeled bike. It has a pair of stud-shooters just ahead of the driver set and a fuselage that folds up on either side for a more menacing look.
Going up against the Desert Lightning is a Vermillion tank with two large blades protruding from its front and a sturdy rubber tank tread in the middle. The tank is a smaller versions of the Vermillion Invader set for a price point that is 50 percent less ($19.99 SRP vs $29.99 SRP).
The Vermillion tank carries forward a tradition of tread-driven enemy vehicles that dates back to Garmatron from the Stone Army. It’s fun to push around on the floor or a table, but the rubber does pick up dust and other tiny pieces of trash rather easily.
Desert Lightning includes Jay; two Vermillion enemies: Commander Blunck and Tannin; and a couple small red snakes. One Vermillion foe is orange and the other red so you get some good variety of these incredibly detailed printed figures with equally exquisite armor. Commander Blunck’s multi-part axe feels like a character unto itself.
Jay comes with a snap-on Blue Time Blade that plays a crucial role in the series. The Time Blades are arguably the coolest accessories for the Ninja yet so having one to match arguably the most popular ninja is a win-win.
Unless you’re LEGO Ninjago collection is overrun with bikes and you simply cannot stomach another, Desert Lightning offer great value at an affordable price point.
