This is the diecast Voltron toy released by Trendmasters in 1997. It was released as a teaser to Voltron 3D, and the new toy line that would follow it. It is amazing to think that this is actually the fifth time this toy has been issued.

This is the diecast Voltron toy released by Trendmasters in 1997. It was released as a teaser to Voltron 3D, and the new toy line that would follow it. It is amazing to think that this is actually the fifth time this toy has been issued.

It is based off of the classic Popy Golion DX toy, which was then later bootlegged as Lionbot. Bandai first brought the toy to America as part of its Godaikin line in the early 80s, and later Matchbox picked up the rights to market the toy as Voltron 3 (Or Voltron Lions).

The Popy and Bandai Golion, as well as the bootleg Lionbot all feature a full compliment of working missiles and small weapons. Both the Popy and the Bootleg version were available as box sets or in individual boxes (body, arms and legs). When they toy made it to America under the Voltron name, it had been re-tooled to conform to US safety standards and did not include any small weapons, missiles or launchers. This too, was available in either a single box, or in separate individual boxes. All of the above are known to be good quality, including the bootleg.

Then there is the Trendmasters version. This sold in one box set in 1997 for $29.99. It did include many of the small weapons omitted from the Matchbox version, but still did not have any missile firing features.

Trendmasters also released a limited number of this toy with gold accessories instead of the standard chrome. There are no special markings on the box, but you can tell by the color of the sword through the window box.

The toy retains all the diecast content of the originals - the arms and legs are solid bricks of metal. But this toy is sloppier than the others. The paint isn't as nice, and the fit is just a bit off on some of the pieces. There was one major mold change - the addition of fins to the red and green lions. It is unknown why these were added, but perhaps it was to be able tell the difference between the reissue and the originals. The paint is also a bit different as well; the yellows are pale compared to the orange-tinted original, and the green and red arms are not as vibrant.

Trendmasters also changed Voltron's face to black instead of blue. Also worth noting is that the ears on the head of my Voltron do not go down all the way. I don't know if that is a defect on all the toys or just mine.

I have heard collectors complain about this toy having loose joints, and that the lower legs do not secure properly. My toy has no connection issues, as long as you make sure that the legs are firmly attached.

This Voltron is not a terrible toy in itself; it just isn't up to par with the previous four versions. It is probably the most affordable version though, and if you want a low-cost way to add a big metal robot toy to your collection, look no further.

In 2002, Trendmasters released a series of toys from the popular Cartoon Network show, Dexter's Laboratory. Among the assorted figures was this gem, Dexter's Super Robot.

It's commonly known that the creator of the show Genndy Tartakovsky, is a huge fan of Anime, and it shows in the design of this toy.

The Dexter figure itself is good enough, and has articulated arms. He can hold a remote to control the robot suit, just like in Tetsujin 28. Dexter can also fit in the robot cockpit, but just barely. In the cockpit is a small control lever, Dexter cannot grab it, it just gets in the way.

The robot itself is about 5 inches tall, and made out of hard plastic. The cockpit opens, fists fire, and wings are removable. It is articulated at the arms, elbows, hips and knees, although due to the design movement is limited.

it's a pretty cool toy if you can find it. Trendmasters also released a larger, walking robot, of a similar design.

This Godzilla was released by Trendmasters as part of its Godzilla Wars Line. The toy featured a light and sound feature that is motion activated. Turn the switch on his back on, and then wave your hand in front of him.

Godzilla is about 10 inches tall, made out of ABS and vinyl, and is articulated at the head, shoulders, legs and tail.

Not a bad likeness of Godzilla from an american toy company. It was released in both "King of the monsters" and "Godzilla Wars" packaging.

The IRON GIANT is an amazing movie that suffered at the box office due to lack of promotion. The toys could be found on clearance shortly after the movie ended and disappeared off of the shelves. Those lucky enough to grab any are lucky to have not only a great toy, but a valuable collectable.

Trendmasters produced several different types of IRON GIANT toys in 1999, but the most sought-after is the ULTIMATE IRON GIANT. At 22 inches tall, he fits in well with your Jumbo Machinders.

He is full of features. From the Trendmasters website:

• Motion Sensor Activation!
  Set Iron Giant to Guard Mode. He comes to life when you approach!
• Iron Giant Eats 3 Pieces of "Junk Food"!
  Tractor with bite marks, Dean McCoppen's Sculpture, and Pull-Apart Car!
• "Hogarth...Friend"
  Iron Giant comes to life when he holds Hogarth!
• Light-Up Eyes Change Shape and Color to Mimic Expressions!

• Ultimate Iron Giant has a motion sensor that can be set to go off when someone enters the room, or when magnetic Hogarth is placed on him.
• He has a lever on the back of his head that switches his eyes from "Good" to "Angry"
• He has 29 points of articulation.
• He comes with 3 pieces of junk, that can be eaten, and retrieved from a latch in his back.
• His eyes light up.