Available to view on Netflix
Spoiler Alert
With the latest season of Dragons Rising wrapped and a monumental cliffhanger setting up what’s next, Ninjago fans like me are already eager for more. Despite rumours of an October release, many were pleasantly surprised when the new episodes dropped in early September. Now that I’m caught up, I can only hope Season Four follows the darker, more mature tone of Ninjago Legends: Monstrosity (2025) and its sequel, Kai’s Monstrous Journey.
Both YouTube exclusives carry the torch of old-school Ninjago storytelling—gritty wuxia flair, elemental mysticism, and the personal struggle that defined the early years. Of the two, the first stands out with its blend of feudal drama and fiery survival. Kai, alone in a hostile wildland, must rediscover magic without Nya’s guiding presence—a refreshing focus on inner strength and resilience.
If more mini-series are on the way, I’d love to see Zane and Pixal’s promise to explore the Wildlands fulfilled. That journey could offer heartfelt development for both. Their relationship—once jokingly dismissed as “robot love”—has evolved into something deeper, exploring questions of sentience, emotion, and identity. It’s one of the most human threads in a world of machines and dragons. Apparently, there is a story in the latest Ninjago magazine, but I have not been keeping up with this publication because of the rising costs to import this magazine.
Meanwhile, Nya’s efforts to restore Jay’s lost memories add emotional weight. This resurrected ninja is a stranger even to himself, and despite gentle reminders of who he was, the new Jay feels alien. Watching her fight for his return gives the series its emotional core, though redemption may come at a heavy cost. Although his memories and personality are restored by the finale, is that enough? Does Jay remember everything he’s done during his time away to make amends for what he’s done? This could make for a fascinating continuation—especially if he recalls his time as a “clerk,” his false identity during his absence.
As for the main arc, one Source Dragon breaks his sacred vow by interfering in mortal affairs, dividing the rest of his kind. Another must be awakened to stop him. Their “Prime Directive”—to never interfere—fractures as Thunderfang seeks to destroy the Merged Realms rather than separate them. Only the Arc Dragon can restore balance—if the Ninja can awaken and convince him to fight.
Amid the chaos, Arin’s personal quest to find his parents becomes a standout subplot. Ras claims to know where they are, but his motives are sinister. This thread mirrors Luke Skywalker’s flirtation with the Dark Side—a journey of temptation and destiny. Whether Arin succumbs or rises above remains to be seen, but it’s the year’s most compelling emotional arc.
Finally, the expansion of the Departed Realm teases future mysteries. Morro has taken up the mantle of guardian, guiding souls across. Yet the revelation that Sensei Wu never crossed over hints at a conspiracy the past few seasons have not fully explored. I’m eager to find out if Wu can get his body back, or what he can do to become mortal again. By the finale, one truth emerges: Ras is the true villain. He’s pulling the strings. His connection with Wu remains a mystery, but his cryptic communication with what appears to be his caged soul suggests something darker—and perhaps much more sinister.
This shift is a departure from how the showrunners have approached creating iconic villains. It’s a tonal shift. Unlike Garmadon who simply sought to rule Ninjago, only to be revealed as a pawn of greater evil, the grander threat is not likely to be another glitch in the Matrix. While some people accept living in this shattered world, one question must be asked: where is Wu’s brother amid all this turmoil?
As alliances form and worlds teeter on collapse, Dragons Rising reminds us why Ninjago endures—it’s not just about saving realms, but rediscovering purpose, balance, and supporting one another. The latter is important as it’s a LEGO standard.
4 Stars out of 5
Dragons Rising Season Three Trailer
Discover more from Otaku no Culture
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
