Great Mazinga
Leading the charge for Mattel’s Shogun Warrior invasion in the late 1970s was Great Mazinger (called Great Mazinga on the box). This is probably the most easily recognizable Jumbo out there. Not only was it released in great numbers, it also had several different versions produced from Matttel alone. (For more on the variations between releases, check out this site.) Additionally, it was also released in such places as, of course, Japan, but also Hong Kong, Spain and Venezuela. Various different forms to be sure, but quite obviously the same basic toy.
The version I have is the third version with the cheaper sticker on the chest. Now, most people think I’m a bit nuts for wanting to get this one instead of the more elaborate and eye-pleasing first version, but I have a solid reason for that. I simply wanted the one that was most different from the Unifive version that I already had when I bought this. Naturally, I’d love to have every Jumbo ever released at some point in my life, but until then, variety is the way to go for me. Some might suggest just getting all three Mattel versions, but frankly, I just wanted one of each character and then move on. I can also get the other versions later if desired.
If you’ve clicked the links above, you’ll see that about the only other significant thing that sets this toys apart from the previously reviewed versions is that it has a normal right hand and a rocket launcher for a left hand, instead of a matching pair of either. Furthermore, this toy comes with only 3 missiles on each leg instead of the usual 5. Recently, someone was actually able to recognize that my tattoos were from this toy!
You SHOULD own all the Jumbo Shogun Warriors. This is a fact. But if you want only one of each character, you’re probably better off getting one of the earlier versions of Great Mazinga, unless you already have the Popy/U5 version and think the same way I do. This version is not as nice, but is cheaper. I paid just over $100, I think, for mine. And they are all over eBay.
Ok, sorry if this review stunk and that I made you look at my hairy leg. But let’s face, this is basically the 5th time I’ve had to review essentially the same toy so forgive me if it becomes progressively harder to keep it interesting!
And naturally, the old commercials are always fun, too.
As you can see in the pics, I’m missing the sticker for one of the knees. If you’ve got one, let me know. I’ve got an extra sticker from the pelvis I could swap for it.
