Voltron, the lion one, is one of those properties that every toy maker, apparently, needs to create their own version of. It’s like every couple of years we’re getting yet another Lion Force Voltron in one way or another (although I appreciate the upcoming Mini Action version). That’s why it’s refreshing whenever we’re getting a Voltron that’s not THE Voltron everyone loves. Like the Netflix series Voltron: Legendary Defender as outside of the original toyline from Playmates, we’ve yet to have another company take a shot at this modern interpretation.
That is until Sen-Ti-Nel announced that they will be bringing us a high-end transforming and combining version of the titular character as part of the RIOBOT line.
RIOBOT Voltron will be made from a mix of ABS plastic and die cast parts to ensure stability and have that heft that collectors want with their high-end collectibles. It is also fully painted and detailed to match how it appears in Voltron: Legendary Defender. And of course, it can transform and combine from the five individual mechanical lions, but more on that later.
RIOBOT Voltron stands at 30cm tall, which is taller than the Soul of Chogokin Voltron and shorter than the CARBOTIX Voltron. I can just imagine the frustration of Voltron collectors who wanted these guys to be on some loose scale when next to each other. Anyway, don’t let the size detract you as its stable enough to be in great poses, though I don’t expect dynamic highflyers with the weight of this thing.
In combined form, Voltron has several weapons at its disposal. As seen above, both the red and green lions have internal and mounted cannons you can point and shoot enemies with (the latter one with the help of your imagination). There are also two short swords and the shield, all of which have translucent parts for added effect. And finally, it won’t be a Voltron without its signature Blazing Sword which is also done in a combination of painted and translucent parts.
RIOBOT Voltron, Legendary Defender is branded as a transformable and combining figure and as such, it can transform to-and-from five individual mechanical lions to one massive humanoid machine. Much like the combined form, the individual lions also look accurate to the animation model. Though we’ve yet to see if the die cast part distribution is also uniform with the individual lions, I assume not.
Adding to the accessory count, each mechanical lion has their exclusive bayards and weapons. Except for Black Lion as it only has a bayard since its individual weapon/accessory is limited to an exclusive edition where it will come with feather parts. It won’t detract from the overall experience of the set if you don’t have the exclusive parts, but I bet completionists would want this accessory.
The exclusive version will also be distributed by 1000toys so you can check out their website to secure yours.
Surprisingly, the set does not include the signature display stand Sen-Ti-Nel includes with most of their RIOBOT releases. Not sure why though.
Like I said earlier, it’s refreshing that we’re not getting the same Voltron figure with this particular release, and I’m glad the Netflix series is getting some attention with this set. I’m not getting this one personally, but I bet a number of Voltron collectors would want a high-end version of this design. If you’re one of those collectors, then I suggest hopping on to the pre-orders now, like the one I’m linking below from site affiliate HobbyLink Japan.
RIOBOT Voltron, Legendary Defender
May 2024 / ¥98,000
Order via HobbyLink Japan
