Bandai’s Soul of Chogokin Voltron GX-71 is as much about the five individual lions as the combined robot. Articulated lion bodies, a broad selection of weapons and a dedicated accessory stand give the set several distinct display options.
Packaging and presentation
The box makes a strong first impression with colorful Voltron artwork. Beneath the slipcover, the Japanese lettering and retro presentation continue onto the instruction booklet. Two interchangeable nameplates offer Japanese and English display options.
Weapons and accessory stand
The lions sit in a foam tray, with the weapons in a separate plastic accessory case. There are accessories for the individual lions as well as the assembled robot, including the large sword and an interchangeable faceplate. The chrome-like finish on the sword looks striking, although the blade is not die-cast metal.
The stepped display stand is particularly useful. Its slots give the accessories a clear arrangement instead of leaving unused pieces scattered around the figure. You cannot show every weapon in the robot’s hands at once, but the stand lets them remain part of the presentation.
That stand matters if your shelf is already crowded. The other figure reviews are useful for judging how much space a finished display really needs.
Five lions and the combined Voltron
Each lion works as an individual figure, with metallic paint, articulated limbs and even movement in the paws. Their own weapons and attachment points make the separate lion display a worthwhile alternative to the combined robot.
The Black Lion opens to reveal Voltron’s face. Connecting plugs and locking mechanisms bring the arms and legs together securely on the reviewed example. Bandai’s instructions explain the transformation, and they are the right reference when changing between the two display modes.
GX-71 packs a lot of detail into the combined robot. The colorful lion components, reflective details and sword pose give the combined figure a different character from the separate lions.
Transformation and Handling
The Red and Green Lions extend through the body and neck, giving Voltron’s arms more reach when combined. The robot also has ratcheted shoulders, some waist movement and ankle pivots for a wider stance. The lions do not all move the same way: the Blue and Yellow Lions’ paws do not swivel like those on the Red, Green and Black Lions.
One leg came off while the set was being unpacked. It had not been fully seated, and pushing it back into place fixed it; nothing was broken. That is worth checking before assuming a connection has failed.
The Blue and Yellow Lions have separate releases for the combined robot’s leg connection and the folded compartment. Learn those buttons before pulling anything apart. Also take care with the Black Lion’s mouth blade: removing Voltron’s faceplate first keeps the blade from pressing against its paint. The Black Lion’s head stays attached.
Use the display case guide to plan space for both the robot and its accessory stand.
Watch the accompanying Voltron GX-71 Video Review: Bandai Soul of Chogokin.
What Bandai Soul of Chogokin Voltron GX-71 Gets Right
- Articulated lions work well as individual figures
- Secure connections on the reviewed example
- Dedicated stand organizes the extensive accessory selection
Where Bandai Soul of Chogokin Voltron GX-71 Falls Short
- The sword has a chrome-like finish but is not die-cast metal
- The full accessory display needs space beyond the robot itself
The Verdict on Bandai Soul of Chogokin Voltron GX-71
GX-71 works well as five articulated lions and as the combined Voltron. The connections held securely on our example, and the accessory stand gives the unused weapons a place beside the robot.
Detailed individual lions, secure combination and an excellent accessory stand make GX-71 a rewarding Voltron display.
