Voltron Metallic Gift Set

So today I am taking a look at the SDCC09 exclusive version of Voltron: Defender of the Universe. Toynami’s previously released Masterpiece Edition Voltron was a hit with fans and collectors alike. It was well-made, had a lot of metal content and sold out pretty quickly. Face it, $150 is a LOT of money for a “toy” but I also understand the regret of not getting one when you had a chance.

Well, Toynami has released this piece in an all-plastic build and I must say it’s pretty good. This isn’t the first all-plastic version of the mighty Voltron from Toynami but it is the first metallic paint version and was sold in limited numbers at San Diego Comic-Con 2009.

So for about half the price of the die-cast metal version, the first thing you notice is the package. It is not the Masterpiece “book-style” package Toynami is known for. Instead, you get something more akin to the classic Go-Lion or Lionbot releases.

This time using the Voltron name and logo. Very nice indeed.

Can you tell which is the plastic version and which is the metal version?

5 Robot lions combine to form the giant defender. Each is as exacting in detail as the previous metal version. Each lion feels solid and well constructed yet light and toy-like.

They retain their high level of pose-ability and striking presence on the shelf. The metallic style paint works to maintain the illusion these are metal incarnations. They look just as good as the original release really.

Very sharp.

Where the difference in materials makes a huge difference is in the finished robot mode. Voltron actually makes for a better “toy” in plastic than he does in metal.

Now don’t get me wrong. I love the high metal content of the Masterpiece Edition but the all-metal bodies of Blue and Yellow Lions weigh the legs down feeling like they may fall off if not supported.

The all-plastic version, being lighter can actually be picked up and posed without fear of falling legs. As a matter of fact, I am comfortable letting my 2-year-old nephew play with it (under my supervision of course) it’s that much more playable

As a collector I prefer the metal “Masterpiece Edition” but the SDCC09 metallic paint version is an excellent choice for those they may have missed the first release. For those on a more discerning budget, the all-plastic release here is worth getting your hands on. It actually makes a great toy!