Toynami's Voltron Lion Masterpiece looks really, really good. I wasn't sure how i'd feel about the more heroic proportions, but seeing it in person, you can't help but marvel at it. George Sohn, president of Toynami, talked about his love of the giant Japanese robot toys, and how he himself is a collector of Godaikins and other related toys. He has pursued the rights to the Shogun Warriors name, and has even attempted to secure the domestic rights to such Japanese characters as Raideen and Grandizer. George clearly loves Japanese toys, and you can hear this love in his voice as he explains his new Voltron. George even brought his dusty Popy Golion to stand side by side the new version.
Due to be released summer of 2005, this version of Voltron is heavier and taller than it's predecessor. It separates into 5 lions, and comes with a sword and shield. It will come in one box, and retail for about $150. Mr Sohn said that this version will not feature firing fists or missiles. He wanted to capture the essence of the toy, and not to have to worry about losing pieces when kids play with it.
Shadow Fighter
Unfortunately, due to time constraints, our visit with Toynami was cut short. We only snapped a few pictures of the upcoming Robotech Shadow Fighter. It looked great, but I couldn't get over how small it was.
Also on display were Chobits, InuYasha and Emily the Strange products.
For more information, visit the Toynami website at http://www.toynami.com