Voltron 40th Anniversary Set by Toynami – A Bold Tribute to the Legendary Defender

If you’re as nostalgic about Voltron as I am, then Toynami’s Voltron 40th Anniversary Collector’s Set will certainly grab your attention. Celebrating four decades of this iconic giant robot defender, Toynami has given fans a well-deserved tribute. The set encapsulates the classic five-lion combination in a fresh, premium format that does justice to the original 1980s design, and boy, is it beautiful! Here’s a closer look at what you can expect from this collectible, along with a dive into Voltron’s journey as a toy collectible.

First Impressions: Classic Design Meets Modern Detail

From what I’ve seen in the photos, Toynami has managed to capture that retro magic while throwing in some modern touches. Each lion is highly detailed, with crisp paint applications and a metallic sheen that screams premium. The Voltron 40th Anniversary figure stands at a commanding 16 inches when combined, giving it an impressive shelf presence that will draw the eye of any collector. The articulation looks top-notch too, allowing for some dynamic poses—a must for those who want to display their toys in action, not just standing stiffly.

I can’t help but compare this new release to Toynami’s earlier Voltron sets. While the basic design elements remain, there’s a noticeable upgrade in the fine details, like the joints and weaponry. For a set commemorating such a major milestone, it feels like they pulled out all the stops. And let’s be honest, we’re not just here for the nostalgia, but also for that eye-catching modernisation!

Playmates vs Toynami: How Does It Stack Up?

One thing you might have noticed is that Toynami isn’t the only one in the anniversary party. Playmates also released their own Voltron 40th Anniversary set, so what makes this Toynami version stand out? Judging by the fan chatter, it’s clear that Toynami’s version feels more premium. The paintwork, metallic finish, and overall build quality seem more aimed at the adult collector who values craftsmanship. Playmates, on the other hand, leans more into playability, with simpler designs aimed at a broader market.

If you’re a long-time Voltron fan looking for something that’ll sit proudly in your display case, I’d wager Toynami has the edge. The articulation and display base really make this feel more like a centrepiece than a mere toy. That said, if you’re after something for the younger generation to actually play with, Playmates might be more up your alley.

The Packaging: A Collectible in Itself

The Toynami set comes housed in an anniversary-themed package that, frankly, is worth displaying on its own. It’s got that ‘80s retro look with modern graphic sensibilities, a mix that reflects the Voltron legacy perfectly. For those of us who obsess over the “mint in box” status, this is a massive bonus. You’ll want to be careful unboxing this beauty, or maybe even just display it as-is alongside your collection.

In case you’re curious about similar collectibles, check out my post on the Super7 Voltron Super Cyborg for another unique take on our beloved lion-based robot, or the stunning ROBO-DOU Voltron Black x Gold Edition, which brings a sleek new look to the timeless classic.

Voltron: From TV Star to Collectible Legend

So, why has Voltron become such a collectable icon? It all starts with the Voltron: Defender of the Universe cartoon from the mid-1980s, which brought the concept of giant, combining robots to a whole new audience outside Japan. For those unfamiliar, the show took footage from the Japanese series Beast King GoLion and reworked it for Western audiences. Voltron’s unique premise—a team of five pilots each controlling a robotic lion that could merge into a towering, sword-wielding robot—was an instant hit.

Voltron was one of the first toys to introduce the idea of modular play. Kids could take apart the lions and then combine them to form the ultimate defender of the universe. This combination gimmick, along with the popularity of the cartoon, made the original 1980s toys a massive success. Fast forward to today, and collectors seek out these toys not just for the nostalgia, but because they represent a pivotal moment in toy history. Few figures from that era have the same kind of lasting appeal as Voltron. Whether it’s Playmates’ versions or Toynami’s 40th Anniversary Set, owning a Voltron toy is like holding onto a piece of pop culture history.

If you’re keen to dive deeper into Voltron’s origins, you can find more info on the Voltron TV Series or explore the finer points of its history in the Defender of the Universe fandom.