When VOLTRON: LEGENDARY DEFENDER was announced as a new Netflix Original Series from DreamWorks Animation last month, I broke the news with excitement – throwing down a tale of when I was Voltron for Halloween… and how much I loved my mid-80s Voltron toys. In 2016, I still have a Voltron here in my office, and with the new series set for launch this Fall, I expect that The Rock Daughters will soon grow to love the mystical robot lions just as I do. This week, some other news came down that I’d been waiting for – that “an expansive” new toy line will launch in Spring 2017, and they’re coming from Playmates Toys – the folks behind the longtime success of the TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES toys.
VOLTRON: LEGENDARY DEFENDER follows five unsuspecting teenagers as they are transported from Earth into the middle of a sprawling intergalactic war and become pilots for five mystical robotic lions in a battle to protect the universe from evil. Only through the true power of teamwork can they unite their lions to form Voltron, the towering warrior that represents the last best hope for good in the universe.
“We are excited to work with DreamWorks Animation on the resurgence of such a beloved brand, and are looking forward to providing nostalgic fans and new audiences with a heroic space adventure toy line,” said Thomas Chan, CEO of Playmates Toys. “We are dedicated to developing an innovative line of toys that will bring the series to life, allowing fans to be immersed in the epic adventures of Voltron, as the team liberates the universe.”
“Voltron is an incredible property, rich with mythology and lore, and we couldn’t be more excited to collaborate with Playmates Toys to bring this legendary defender to life off the screen,” said Tim Erickson, Global Head of Licensing, DreamWorks Animation. “Voltron: Legendary Defender is an action-packed series that will have kids lining up to see what Playmates has in store.”
Knowing what Playmates is capable of with large-scale playsets and vehicles, here’s hoping we see a full-range that includes the Castle of Lions, and a set of Voltron Lions that are capable of holding an action figure of their pilot… just like the ones I had when I was a kid.
Stay tuned for more news on VOLTRON: LEGENDARY DEFENDER in the months ahead… because in addition to being a fan, I’m also a member of the Netflix #StreamTeam
