Voltron news has been pretty dry in the past few months, especially on the newest cartoon, Voltron Force. Nonetheless, Voltron is a pretty popular subject and news on who has the license for the upcoming toy line has emerged. While the cartoon commands a strong following, the toys do as well, and the company who has the license now is none other than ….Mattel!
Variety has posted an article today with details on both the new cartoon, and Mattel’s upcoming toyline:
Starting next year, Nicktoons will air 26 half-hour episodes of “Voltron Force,” about five space explorers who pilot robotic lions that combine to form Voltron, an invincible guardian sworn to defend the Universe.
Series will remain faithful to the old show, while introducing new recruits to fight alongside the original characters.
New episodes will be timed to the 25th anniverseries. It’s the first “Voltron” TV project in 10 years, although an iPhone game came out in December.
WEP and Classic Media (“Casper the Friendly Ghost,” “Where’s Waldo?”) will produce the toon with Kickstart Prods. (“Wolverine and the X-Men”). Classic Media is shepherding international distribution, merchandising and licensing deals.
Mattel will tie-in with the anniversary to launch toys based on the classic “Voltron” range, as well as action figures and playsets that revolve around an edgier, modernized robot. There is no date on when the toys will hit shelves.
“What’s paramount is getting the toys right,” Ted Koplar, president of St. Louis-based WEP told Daily Variety. “They’re pretty involved toys that have to transform and fit together.”
WEP and Classic Media had been developing a live action feature for some time but scribes, including Justin Marks, have yet to lock down the right tone, producers said.
Will Mattel follow previous companies who had licenses for Voltron, in making versions of Voltron with diecast metal? Do you think Mattel can pull this off? They aren’t exactly a stranger to Voltron. Share your thoughts after hitting the discuss button below!
CompaniesMattel
CharactersLion Voltron