LEGO Set 71842-1 (Rontu the Master Dragon) Alternate Builds: New Ways to Rebuild Your NINJAGO Dragon

There’s something especially satisfying about a dragon set: it already feels like a “final form,” packed with dramatic wings, sharp silhouettes, and a poseable body that begs to be swooshed across the room. But LEGO Set 71842-1 – Rontu the Master Dragon has another superpower hidden in plain sight—its parts selection is perfect for reimagining the build into totally different creations while keeping that bold NINJAGO energy. Whether you want a darker creature, a more mechanical interpretation, or a fresh display model that still screams “power,” this set can become a small rebuilding playground.

Alternate builds are also a fun way to explore design techniques without needing extra pieces. Rebuilding from a single inventory forces clever solutions: wing elements can become armor panels, dragon joints can turn into mech shoulders, and decorative accents can transform into weapons, horns, or cockpit details. It’s also a great way to change the vibe of your shelf—keep the color palette and personality of Rontu, but swap the silhouette completely. Some builders lean into creature-mode, keeping the beastly posture but reshaping the head and proportions. Others go in the opposite direction, converting organic forms into a mech with sharp angles, articulated limbs, and a stance that looks ready for battle.

Below you’ll find the alternate builds and modifications 

Alternate Builds

Turn RouTu 71842 into a demon Hunter

Designer: barryxu119
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Ninjago Rontu / Alternative Build 71842

Designer: ardakayhanli
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Partial Alternate Builds

The Hawk Mech – 71806 + 71842 Alternative Build

Designer: ardakayhanli
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Modifications 

Rontu – 71842 mod

Designer: KURA151
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