Background :
LEGO Richie, is a minor character in Ninjago, a non-player character (NPC) from the video game, Prime Empire who becomes a citizen of Ninjago City. His appearance immediately identifies him within the virtual game, and his initial role as part of the Whack Rats gang shifts significantly, highlighting a redemption arc that sees him assist the Ninja in later conflicts. Richie and the Whack Rats ambush the Ninja and Okino in the Forest of Discontent. During this fight, Nya ties up one of the rats, Ritchie (Hausner) while the rest of the rats escape.
Appearance :
His outfit is a "cyber-enhanced" pink and black suit, with a bold yellow pixelated skull print on his torso. He wears black pants featuring a silver belt and wrapping patterns with lime green circles. A black ponytail hairpiece extends from his head, which he also features a black VR visor integrated into his face mold. In Sets, he comes equipped with twin orange katanas or a double-bladed spear.
Role :
Initially, Richie serves as an antagonist and a member of the Whack Rats, a villainous gang loyal to Unagami, the game's final boss. His role primarily involves enforcing Unagami's rules, engaging in the high-stakes "Speedway Five-Billion" race, and slowing the Ninja's progress within the game. After Unagami's defeat, the Manifestation Gate frees Richie and the Red Visors, NPCs into Ninjago City, where they initially cause chaos. His importance increases when, choosing to remain in the physical world, he later aligns himself with the Ninja during the "Crystalized" Season, to help them fight the Overlord's Crystal army. Richie's, story arc demonstrates the potential for NPCs to evolve beyond their programmed roles and contribute to the greater good of Ninjago.
Interactions :
Richie interacts with numerous characters across his appearances. His primary interactions are with the other members of the Whack Rats, including a character also named Ritchie/Hausner, and their Leader, Atta the Ratta. As an antagonist in Prime Empire, he engages directly in conflict with the Ninja, specifically Zane, Kai, Cole, Jay, Nya, and Lloyd.