When it comes to Thundercats, my nostalgia meter is always set to “11,” and Mondo’s latest Lion-O figure has me roaring with excitement! As someone who still cherishes the original LJN Lion-O figure from the 1980s (yes, the very one that saw more battle than the ThunderCats’ Lair), I couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia when I saw the newly released photos of this 1/6 scale masterpiece. The original LJN Lion-O holds a special place in my heart, with its light-up eyes and classic ThunderCats logo on the belt. But let’s be honest, the technology and attention to detail back then just can’t compare to what we’re seeing now.
Unmatched Detailing and Articulation
Mondo’s take on Lion-O is nothing short of breathtaking. Standing tall at 12 inches with over 30 points of articulation, this figure is the ultimate homage to the Lord of the Thundercats. The detailing on this figure is astonishing—from the perfectly sculpted muscles that would make even Panthro jealous, to the lifelike texture of Lion-O’s iconic mane. And don’t even get me started on the accessories. The Sword of Omens (both in dagger and full-sized mode) is crafted with such precision that you half expect it to growl “Thunder, Thunder, ThunderCats, Ho!” when wielded by Lion-O.
Iconic Accessories and Impressive Craftsmanship
One of the standout features of this figure is the array of accessories that come with it. The Claw Shield, which can be attached to Lion-O’s arm or worn on his hip, is a faithful recreation that adds a layer of authenticity and nostalgia to the figure. The different hand options and interchangeable faces allow you to pose Lion-O in various action-packed stances, bringing to life the dynamic nature of the character.
Artwork and Packaging that Stands Out
The packaging is a work of art on its own, thanks to Florian Bertmer’s stunning design. It’s the kind of box you might actually keep and display, instead of chucking it into the closet like most other toy packaging. The limited availability of this figure means you’ll need to act fast, but for any serious collector, this Lion-O is a no-brainer.
Comparing with Other Thundercats Figures
This release got me thinking about Super7’s Lion-O, which I wrote about recently. While both figures are impressive, Mondo’s version feels like the grown-up version of the LJN toy I adored as a kid. It’s as if the figure has matured just like us fans have over the years. If you’re a Thundercats fan, a collector, or just someone who appreciates finely crafted toys, this Lion-O figure is the pinnacle of what modern toy-making can achieve.