VOLTES V

How tall is Chodenji Mashin Voltes V?

2010-06-23T22:54:00.000-07:00

There are those who said Mazinger Z is 35 meters tall, the same goes to UFO Grandaizer, Chodenji Mashin Combattler V was 57 meters where as others boasted that Voltron (Beast King Golion) is 60 meters tall. Voltes V was said to be 58 meters but most often, the giant robot was depicted as tall as Daimos in most fan art depictions. But sorces from SWR (Super Robot Wars) has clarified these misconceptions as they show how tall Voltes V really is as well as the other super robots. The shaded guy just before reaching 60 meters is Voltes V.

The Beast Fighters - Boazan's Imperial terror mechs!

2010-05-15T21:21:00.000-07:00

Dokugaga- Appears in episode 1. Powers include flight, claws, pink cement from the mouth, a 2-tube missile launcher on the chest, pink eye beams, and mouth missiles.

Baizanga- Appears in episode 2. Powers include a double chained mace, flight, yellow eye beams, fire balls from the mouth, launchable hair needles, buffalo horns, chest missiles from each pectoral, a 4-way grapple chain in the chest, and a belt buckle extendable pincer

Bonzarus- Appears in episode 3. Powers include extremely fast flight, a stinger tail that can detach and be used as a sword, propeller missiles from the lower arms, mouth flamethrower, shoulder missile launchers, an orange mouth ray, and detachable wings to form flying double swords.

Gardo- Appears in episode 4. Powers include a Gelama alloy sword, Gelama armor that is extremely resistant to electricity and explosives, and flight.

Gladiator- Appears in episode 4. Gladiator is only used to show off Gardo's might and is equipped with a chained mace and sai.

Neegu- Appears in episode 5. Powers include swimming, levitation, orange energy bolts from the mouth, extendable neck spikes, spiked mines from the neck holes, and can combine with Daiga.

Daiga- Appears in episode 5. Powers include flight, finger rockets, green eye beams, mouth flamethrower, and can combine with Neegu.

Daineegu- Appears in episode 5. Is the combined form of Neegu and Daiga and powers include shoulder machine guns, shields from the leg armor, a Combine Beam from the energy bolts and green eye beams, extendable spikes from hips and shoulders, finger rockets, launchable pincers from the belly, and a roller mode where it forms a giant spiked tires.

Baddo Heir- Appears in episode 6. Powers include flight, back spikes, sword arms, bat bombs from the shoulders and abdomen, bladed shurikens from the pelvis, mouth flamethrower, regeneration, and detachable trapping wings.

Karakaras- Appears in episode 7. Powers include flight, green eye beams, talons, mouth missiles, wing missiles, hurricane winds from the wings, mouth flamethrower that is very strong, razor feathers, and a gas propelled ram.

Gargo- Appears in episode 8. Piloted by Prince Heinel himself and powers include an energy absorbing bite, swimmer, flight, reinforced armor in the sides after being upgraded, and mouth missiles. Highly resembles the Bengal Tiger

Gondum- Appears in episode 9. Powers include flight, wing bombs that contain throwing stars, a pink heat beam from the mouth that is rather weak, slicer missiles from the chest, a chained ax on the head), and razor feathers.

Bombos- Appears in episode 10. Powers include flight at mach 1, pink energy bolts from the mouth, slicing dragonfly wings that can cause hurricane force winds, a propeller spinable tail used for projectile deflection, and X-Ray vision.

Namazungo- Appears in episode 10. Powers include flight, purple energy bolts from the head, swimming, 3-tube missile launcher in the mouth, hooked catfish whiskers, and can change into its super form.

Super Namazungo- Appears in episodes 10 and 11. Powers include flight, explosive mouth flamethrower, spiked tank treads, 3-tube missile launcher in the mouth, green lightning spawned from its whiskers touching each other, and an Anti Super Electromagnetic Ray from the head that can prevent Voltes V from forming.

Gamenza- Appears in episode 11. Powers include shell missiles, swimming, flight, and shell spinning. Highly resembles Gamera.

Kanigan- Appears in episode 12. Powers include swimming, crab claw arms, flight, an Anti Super Electromagnetic Ray like Super Namazungo's, spike missiles from the arms, green adhesive foam from the sides of the head that can break down to electrify, forehead horn missiles, and pink energy bolts from the sides of the head.

Gonguru- Appears in episode 13. Powers include swimming, pectoral missiles, and a hidden drill in the head. Highly resembles a gorilla.

Kuragenyara- Appears in episode 13. Powers include flight, extendable tentacles, and produces electric shocks. Highly resembles Dogora.

Garuman- Appears in episode 14. Powers include flight, talons, three extendable tongues, a roller ball mode, projectile deflecting feet, burrowing, a mace tail, and a mouth flamethrower

Jaguard- Appears in episode 15. Powers include flight, swimming, speed, sharp claws, throwing stars from two slots on each shoulder, red mouth flames, mace bombs from the mouth, extendable fanged sabers, metal chained claws from the shoulders, and can increase body temperature to set itself and the area ablaze.

Suneizaa- Appears in episode 16. Powers include swimming, coiling homing missiles from the mouth that emit electricity, fire balls from the mouth, a spiked tail, and a nasal horn for each of its four heads.

Zaizarus- Appears in episode 17. Powers include flight at mach 17, a 4-tube missile launcher hidden in the back, swimming, and two machine guns on each wing.

Gokiiru- Appears in episode 18. Powers include space flight, chest missile launchers, mouth cluster missiles, and a bolt reflective breast plate.

Tobiurago- Appears in episode 19. Powers include flight, hurricane force winds from the wings, mouth missiles, nose horn, triangular bombs from the chest, and a Sword hidden in the back.

Zoru- Appears in episode 20. Powers include double sided lances that can absorb projectiles and reform if destroyed, regeneration, roe missiles, and can combine with Geru. Highly resembles a Medieval knight.

Geru- Appears in episode 20. Powers include flight, regeneration, launchable horseshoes, hoof drills, and can combine with Zoru.

Zoru Geru Fusion- Appears in episode 20. Powers include flight, slicer spikes from the body, and a rocket speared drill formed from its amoeba-like body structure that emits energy.

Octopus Guard- Appears in episode 21. Powers include swimming, tentacles with spikes in suction cups, horn electric bolts, and can self destruct.

Sazaras- Appears in episode 21. Powers include swimming, pincer claw arms, a spiked hermit crab shell that has hidden missile launchers, and flight.

Zemingo 1- Appears in episode 22. Powers include a left arm extendable drill, a right arm chainsaw, back spike missiles, and can morph into its second form.

Zemingo 2- Appears in episode 22. Powers include light, a left arm sword, nose spike missiles, a horn drill hidden in the forehead that coils upon detaching from body and regenerates new one), and launchable stingers from the abdomen.

Garus- Appears in episode 23. Powers include speed, claws that emit electricity, reinforced fangs, flight, size changing, spiked collar missiles, extendable body spikes that emit heat, and a mouth flamethrower. Highly resembles a wolf.

Super Beast Fighters:

Every beast fighter after episode 23 has nigh-indestructible Maxingal Alloy; these beast fighters are often referred to as super beast fighters.

Okozenia- Appears in episode 24. Powers include levitation, red eye lasers, launchable shuriken fish fins with extendable spear fingers, a forehead trident, and a back fish fin buzz saw.

Desraa- Appears in episode 25. Powers include a submarine mode that moves up to 300 knots, twin pink horn bolts, bow and arrows, and a sword sheathed on the left hip.

Daimon- Appears in episode 26. Powers include swimming, a right hand shield that can easily block the Voltes Bazooka, a left hand claw, a pincer head claw, pink eye lasers, and flight.

Saimon- Appears in episode 26. Same powers as Daimon although pink eye bolts are not used.

Gagamikiri- Appears in episode 27. Powers include flight, a chest 6-tube missile launcher, and green ionizing bolts from the double head fin.

Giron- A naturally large Boazanian that appears in episode 29. Powers include flight, a double bladed ax that acts like boomerang and a second one is stored in right shoulder, and a chained Net concealed in his mace.

Daruda- Appears in episode 29. Powers include flight, finger lasers, a head laser gatling gun, and cargo storage in the chest.

Kamagurira- Appears in episode 30. Powers include eye tractor beams, flight, mantis arms that are extendable by chains within the arms, mouth missiles, self duplication, and electric nets from the mouth.

Daiand- Appears in episode 31. Powers include a diamond form that can possess others by physical contact, flight, red mouth heat ray, teleportation, and crystal spears launched from the body.

Zanion- Appears in episode 32. Powers include swimming, lobster claw arms, a mouth 4-tube missile launcher, extendable whisker whips that can disperse electricity, and extraordinary jumping.

Dorion- Appears in episode 33. Powers include swimming, flight, launchable homing back spikes capable of burrowing, a drill from the mouth that releases Boazanian germs upon penetration, launchable fists, and regeneration.

Aringa- Appears in episode 34. Powers include flight, purple antennae bolts, green mouth acid, and burrowing

Gorgo- Appears in episode 35. Powers include remote controlled pincer claw arms, flight, hidden arm drills, a launchable tail drill, and green eye beams.

Destroid- Appears in episode 36. Powers include light while encased in a fire ball, laser gatling gun hands, tank treads, a back 4-tube missile launcher, head heat beams at the scalp, and three head lasers on the face.

Shugoshin Godor- Appears in episode 40. Powers include a statue disguise, a sword, and green mouth flames.

Sexy Megumi Photos from the net

2010-04-24T02:05:00.001-07:00

No doubt, young Megumi is a cute and calm ninja girl, but she's also very attractive and sexy as these pictures on the net suggests..."Go ninja, Go ninja, Go ninja girl!!!"

Chodenji Mashin Combattler V...Voltes V's Predecessor

2010-02-16T23:15:00.000-08:00

Back in 1977-78, Chodenji Mashin Voltes V enjoyed the red carpet treatment amongst Filipinos that spanned more than 20 years of sentimentality, perhaps, unparalleled by any other super robot shows in history. But before Voltes V, another Chodenji mashin named Combattler V was reputed to be one of the most significant giant robot series in anime history. Sadly, this chodenji mashine goes unnoticed by most Filipino viewers since it’s release in the Philippines in the mid 1980’s. Much worst, some even saw it as a “rip-off” of Voltes V. In fairness, Combattler V had a string of fans in the U.S. Europe, as well as in Asia. The animated series was the first in line with Saburo Yate/Tadao Nagahama’s Giant Robot Romance Trilogy series followed by Chodenji Mashin Voltes V and Toshou Daimos.

It was the first Electro-magnetic “Gattai” (combiner) Multi-Functioning machine/vehicle components piloted by young, Earth defense agents.
Combattler V also appeared as a die-cast robot toy in the Popinka toy line and later on, reissued as “Godaikin” and Mattel’s “Shogun Warrior” series (as Combatra and “Combattra Super Robot System”) Combattler V also appeared as an all plastic toy in the “Real Action Hero” series, some bootleg items and finally, as part of the “Soul of Chogokin” series from Bandai.

The Story:

The series starts with the attack of the Campbellians or “Kyanbels” (Campbells reminds me of the all American soup products) against the people of Earth. For more than a thousand years, these malevolent invaders had lived beneath the Earth, eager to one day resurface and conquer the human race. The Kyanbels were ruled by a domineering alien queen named Oreanna, her second in command, and the main commander of the Kyanbel Invassion Force is her son, the temperamental Prince Garruda. Aiding her abominable scheme is the high Kyanbel priestess Gen. Janealor. Using the gigantic beast machines under the command of field general Warchimedes and Dungele, they were aided by fearsome combat advisers namely Mica, Garua and Narva. The Kyanbel forces spell certain doom for the people of Planet Earth.

But their evil plans were discovered by Professor Nanbarra – a notable Earth defense Scientist that looses no time in creating humanity’s only hope for survival; the Super-Electro magnetic robot Combattler V!

The Combattler Machines:

Just like that of Voltes V, Combattler V (Vee) is a combination-type super robot formed by five powerful machines they are as follows:

Battle Jet – Forms the head of Combattler V; fastest of all Battler machines-boasting a maximum speed of Mach 20

Battle Clasher (Battle Crasher) – Forms the shopulders, arms and chest of Combattler V. Attack/Fighter Bomber-Type machine, equipt with a variety of projectiles.

Battle tank – Forms the upper and lower torso of Combattler V. This tank-like machine had powerful armors, sensitive radar units and pinchers. Unfortunately, unlike Voltes V’s Volt Panzer Three, this machine could not fly.

Battle Marine – Forms the legs of Combattler V; an areal/submarine machine equipt with repair and maintenance units. Also serves as a carrier unit that holds the Battle Tank in flight.

Battle Craft (Battle Kulaft) – Forms the feet of Combattler V;Subterrenean machine armed with drills, energy guns and powerful sensors. Amazingly, this machine houses Combattler V’s brain center or Main frame.

The Combattler V Super Robot Defense System:

Just like in Chodenji Mashin Voltes V, the voice command registrating code: “Let’s Combine!” activates the powerful metallic transducers, triggering a locking-in polarity activation that forms Chodenji Mashin Combattler V. Standing 57 meters tall, the robot’s color scheme of red, white (silver) and blue may have been adapted from American super hero lore since most super robot animes of the past had a basic, super hero storyline. Just like Voltes V, Combattler V cast a silhouette of an over-sized armored samurai warrior than the all too familiar clunky robot image of vintage U.S. sci-fi shows.

Weapons of Combattler V:

Battle Return

Rock Fighter

Magnet Claw

V-Laser

Battle Galega

Spring Crusher / Drill

Choudenji Crane

Atomic Burner

Twin Lancer

Battle Chainsaw

Choudenji Yoyo

Big Blast

Big Blast Divider

Choudenji Tatsumaki

Choudenji Spark

Grandasher

Choudenji Spin

Combattler V’s Battle Team:

Professor Nambarra erected “The Nambarra Connection” : A cabinet like Earth Defense station that serves as headquarters and launch/repair center for the Battle Machines. With this, he assembled a stalwart group of young, Earth Defense Pilots trained to operate the battle Machines and Combattler V.

Aoi Hyoma – Team Leader of the Battle Team.
Battle Jet pilot and moto-cross rider who ended up with a cybernetic arms and legs after his encounter with Prince Garruda.

Juzo Nanwa – 2nd in command, Pilot of the Battle Clasher; Sniper, Marksman, all around fire arms expert with a smooth and cool disposition.

Nishikawa Daisaku – Pilot of the Battle Tank; A young Jodo-Master, a “generic” Gentle Giant.

Chizuru Nambarra – Pilot of the Battle Marine; Grand daughter of Professor Nambarra; Lovely and child-like, she was the darling of the Battle Team and the object of affection. Later, she was discovered of having a heat ailment.

Kita Kosuke – Pilot of the Battle Kulaft (Battle Craft) ; Wearing large, Boston glasses and a loose uniformhe’s the Battle Team’s youngest member and the usual “Boy Genius” who loves to tinker, invent zany gadgets and fooling around.

After Professor Nambarra’s demise, the unkempt Professor Yotsuya took over as head of the Nambarra Connection and the Battle Team; a drunkard and shabby fellow, Professor Yotsuya’s uncouth and faulty dispositions serves as humorous excuse for some of the show’s funniest moments between him and the Battle Team or with the resident comical robot helper/mascot Ropet –a computerized machine that gauges the Battle Team’s mental energies. Ropet is also known to make good coffee.

Personal Comments:

There are people, specially Combattler V fans who keep insisting Voltes V as an imitation of Combattler V.

Although I admit that Combattler V (pronounced as "Vee") was the first combining Super robot to be created by Saburo Yate , I strongly stress again and again that Voltes V is the improvement of Combattler V!

I'm sick and tired talking to these "IDIOTS" and I hope this is the last of my explanations:Voltes V and Combattler V had only one creator and that’s Saburo Yate and it looks like that Voltes V is an improvement of Combattler V, in robot design, character personalities and story.

Most characters in Combattler V are immature and irresponsible, specially their Professor/ coordinator who is a sloppy drunkard.

There was also an episode where the Combattler V leader prefers to watch cartoons instead than battle the invaders. All of this in a story line set in a future world supposedly being invaded by hostile alien aggressors using giant machines to conquer.

With this kind of personality the Combattler V team shows, no wonder Saburo Yate created Voltes V!

Voltes V Team on the other hand, showed utmost dedication to their profession; they are highly skilled and alert, it looks like Yate San could throw Combattler V into the trash can any time and replaced it with Voltes V instead!

It’s just like one episode of “Knight Rider” where David Hasslehoff’s character encountered another computerized talking car made by the same company who developed his side kick talking car “K.I.T.T.” When asked if Kitt felt insecure that “K.a.r.r.” (The villain computerized talking car) was the first to be created, K.i.t.t replied nonchalantly: “I am the Improvement of “K.a.r.r.”

Final battle comparisons of Voltes V and Combattler V:

Even in their show’s “Final Battle scenes” Voltes V proves advantage against Combattler V

In Combattler V’s ending, the Combattler V super robot over-heats and bogs down after fighting off the last enemy robot. Unable to eject out of their giant super defender, the Combattler team awaits their fate from an oncoming alien armada from the report they received from their “Nambara Connection” base.

Lucky for them, it turns out that the said “armada” is only a large “clean up” committee sends by the planet from where the Kyanbel criminals came from.

The planet’s government even apologies to the Earth People for the uncalled conduct of their fallen comrade.

In Voltes V’s ending, Voltes V along with The Solar Falcon (Big Falcon turns to a space station) brought the war in Planet Boazania’s doorsteps.

Voltes V liberated the Boazanian slaves from the cruel reign of Emperor Zanbasil, destroyed the Boazanian monarchy and crushed its haughty imperialistic ways.

Voltes V even battled with Boazania’s last defender, the “Boazanian God of War” piloted by Prince Heinnel (Prince Zardoz) where the Voltes team members, the Go brothers (Armstrong brothers) learned that their long time enemy is really their half brother!Kennichi (Steve), Daijiro (Big Bert) and Hiyoshi (Little Jon) were reunited with their long lost father and Voltes V returns to Earth as its ever ready defender.

In the toy designs created by Bandai (Godaikin toy line) Combattler V still had many add-ons every time the robot toy disassembles to become the Combattler Machines.Whereas in the Bandai rendition of Voltes V (Godaikin Toy line), only the Volt Bomber 2 part needs an add-on.

Another thing, The Combattler V toy could not lock its components properly because the manufacturers used magnet locking devices. You still have to put a rubber strip to hold the robot toy together.

Unlike The Voltes V toys (Also under Bandai’s Godaikin line) Use sturdy plastic couplers as locking mechanisms. (Even in the toy line, Voltes V proves to be Combattler V’s superior!.)

Return to Big Falcon by MachitopiaStudio

2009-11-19T00:07:00.000-08:00

In redesigning their headquarters in Second Life, Avatrian's development team used their collective childhood fascination for the Robot Romance Trilogy as inspiration. The new space has been dubbed Camp Big Falcon in recollection of their favorite Japanese anime television series...Voltes V. The story of Voltes V first aired on TV Asahi starting April 13, 1977 and quickly became a mass cultural phenomenon in Japan, the Philippines, Asia and other countries during the 80s. It has been re-broadcasted in the 2000s and was similarly embraced by a new generation of audience. Return to Big Falcon is a nostalgic look back to this classical period in time and an invitation for devotees to experience Camp Big Falcon...now possible in the virtual world of Second Life.

This machinima is filmed primarily in the re-developed Avatrian Central sim in Second Life. In pre-production, Return to Big Falcon took advantage of dynamic shadow rendering technology for in-world lighting. The scenes were captured using Machitopia's new high-end AMD Phenom 2 x2 550 with Nvidia GTX 280 OC graphics card and 1GB gddr3 memory.

Visit MachitopiaStudio

The Many Faces of Megumi Oka

2009-10-10T00:22:00.000-07:00

Megumi Oka around the NET and a darling she is...

Voltes V inside the virtual world of Second Life

2009-04-08T03:44:00.000-07:00

Avatrian LLC (a metaverse consultancy and development company), has just recently redeveloped our simulator inside the virtual world of Second Life, into Camp Big Falcon.

http://www.avatrian.com/blogs/?p=488

Our Big Falcon base has the commmand center modelled, where one's avatars (in full Voltes V costumes/uniforms) can ride the launch conveyors, and activate the hangar doors and barrier system. YouTube movies of the series can also be viewed from within the command center's main screen. We are also currently developing flyable Voltes vehicles (1-5) and a full-sized Voltes V controllable robot for Phase I. Phase II will include a possible "volting in sequence" implementation and more. Other spaces inside Big Falcon will be developed into a digital library containing information about Voltes V, conference areas for fan gatherings, and other meetings. The area surrounding the base is also being developed for other Voltes V related events (i.e. games, parties etc.) in Second Life.

We are about 50% completion of Phase I of our project. We are not aware if you are familiar with Second Life, but we would consider it an honor if you can visit our Camp Big Falcon, at the Avatrian Central Sim. We would also be interested in your feedback regarding our endeavor :)

To download the Second Life client, visit here:

http://secondlife.com/

RODION M. HERRERA
Creative Director,
Avatrian, LLC
http://www.avatrian.com

Megumi VS Allura

2009-01-13T03:46:00.000-08:00

Recalling the anime convention I’ve attended two years ago, I remember the discussion between enthusiasts regarding Voltes V’s ninja girl pilot Megumi Oka against Volton’s young monarch Princess Allura.

Judging from the physical make-up, stamina and combat orientation of both female characters, Princess Allura would be rolling down the proverbial ring side canvas in pain and utter defeat before Megumi could deliver her next round house kick.

Ouch!

I believe it will never be a fair fight; in the Voltes V series, Megumi was depicted as a harshly trained “Kunno-ichi” (Ninja Girl) since she belongs to a clan of fierce assassin and her father was the 110^th descendant of this ferocious clan. The series even showed Megumi as calm and calculating and these attributes alone makes her very dangerous.

Naturally, it occurred to me that Megumi can even take out the entire Voltron Force single handedly and why not…nothing in the Voltron Lion Force’s 48 episode series that depicted the Voltron Force had undergone harsh and rigorous hand to hand combat trainings although Pidge, the youngest of the Voltron Force was seen to jump high like some weightless astronaut in earlier episodes because he was said to have extra ordinary martial arts skills.

I doubt such skills can help him if he’s pitted against Megumi Oka or any of the Voltes Team members. I am quite confident and familiar with what ninja girl Megumi can do if to face against the Voltron Force but how can I compare Voltron’s princess against Voltes V’s Kunno-ichi?

Let’s trace Princess Allura’s origins not from the Voltron series, but from the original Japanese anime “Golion-King of Beasts.”:

Her real name is Princess Farla (Farla Hime) stately Princess of Planet Arus.

According to the Golion series, she is the ruler of the Kingdom of Altair (as well as the entire planet, for the most part) and took over for Sven as the pilot of the Blue Lion that forms Voltron's right leg. Her age is about 18-20. Though a bit naive especially with matters of romance, Princess Farla/ Allura is a strong-willed person, and seems to be capable of ruling her planet, though some like Ambassador Coran and her Nanny tend to disagree.

Princess Farla/Allura was the daughter of a veteran pilot of the super robot Beast King Golion. The series never stated whether this “has been” pilot was also Golion’s creator or what his name was, suffice to say that Princess Farla/Allura is capable of invoking the dead, particularly her father, for his advices, comfort, guidance or miraculous help every time the Voltron Force is in trouble. In the Voltron series, this unnamed ghost was given a name… the late King Alfor.

Just for the record, Princess Farla/Allura was a nice character. Honestly, she could never fit-in as a pilot of a giant warrior robot because of her dainty, medieval fantasy princess disposition, let alone win over ninja-girl Megumi Oka in a bout!

Regarding my personal opinion, Princess Farla/Allura is a candidate for a Disney Princess pageant and it was illustrated by her medieval fantasy attire, her fair European features, her royal built, and her ability to talk to cute space mice, and her romantic fairytale charisma as she waves and talk sweetly to her people.

Frankly, I scoff at Voltron/Golion for being obvious copy cat show of Voltes V yet I believe, with these qualities, Princess Farla/Allura’s character can stand alone, especially if she’s not a part of the Voltron/Golion Universe.

But Princess Farla/Allura DO has her flaws and these short comings are inescapable facts that she’s better off, a part of Voltron/Golion’s universe.

It was said that King Alfor was the original pilot of Voltron before the machine was “quartered” by Hagar’s spell or by a beautiful goddess according to the original Golion series.

If it so, then why did he allowed Commander Keith (Akira) Kogane to man the Voltron Black Lion and why not Princess Allura since he (King Alfor) may sense that his daughter is capable enough of ruling the entire planet or may have given her a chance to prove her self…then why not Voltron and the Voltron Force...or is this one of those male dominated occupations prevalent over all Japanese super robot shows?

Another thing, Planet Arus is under attacked by the forces of King Zarcon of Planet Doom, and the only way to defend it is to find and re-activate Voltron.

If so, then why Princess Allura denied justice for her people by employing Galaxy Alliance Space Explorers from Earth to pilot Voltron instead of training several warriors from Planet Arus itself.

Does Princess Allura truly loved her people, if so I feel it was more justifying if she or Coran secretly trained young astro-fighters from Arus and make them pilots of Voltron…These pilots will represent the oppress and beaten people of that planet and victory will be doubly sweet.

Is Princess Allura for real…does she love her people, is she competent enough to handle the command of the Voltron Force…or is she nothing but a love doll for Commander Keith Kogame or a shapely punching bag for the ferocious Voltes V ninja-girl Megumi Oka?

From Skysword to Laser Sword: A possible Filipino voice over talent’s misinterpretation.

2009-01-09T16:57:00.000-08:00

When Voltes V broke into the airwaves back in 1977-79, young viewers were introduced to new and exciting mechanical weapons like the “Chain Knuckles”, “Ultra-Electro magnetic whips”, “Ground Fire”, “Ultra-Electro magnetic Beam”, “Ultra-Electro Magnetic Tops”, “Concealed Bazookas”, and the main weapon, the “Laser Sword”!

Voltes V’s arsenal of deadly missiles and projectiles had caught my fancy; imagine a giant machine that moves adroitly like a giant human fighter and can launch nasty-looking weapons in frightening paces! Imagine what damage these savage buck shots can do if fallen into the wrong hands.

Speaking of “wrong hands” most Filipino viewers had taken the names of these weapons for granted, specially the Voltes V weapon of choice, the “Laser Sword!”
The series depicts the “Laser Sword” being deployed by Voltes V from the V-shaped crest on its chest part. This V-shaped crest serves as the hand guard of the giant sword.
Perhaps the voice activation unit sets off the blade of this “Laser Sword” from the V-crest; a high-tensile strength wedge armor beam retracts up and is further energized by lightning, just like a lightning rod!

Critical observation shows that there is nothing “Laser” to this “Laser Sword”, let alone having a “triangular” shaped apex which is very unlikely to anything made and composed of laser light!

Watching the original Japanese DVD of Voltes V confirmed much of my intuitions; the magnificent “sword” is originally called “Ten-Ku-Ken” or “The Sword of Heaven!”
Most of Voltes V’s weapon was derived from Japanese lore regarding ninjas and samurais. It was part of their native culture.
Ten-ku-Ken is a fitting name for a mighty instrument of justice; it was as if the very heavens blest this weapon by raging lightning before it delivers its verdict upon a hapless enemy. The Ten-ku-ken yields its power directed from a source so pure and divine.

Voltes V was aired in 1977 the same year that “STAR WARS” took the movie industry by storm. I suspect that the voice overs or the Filipino script writers coined the term “Laser Sword” from the “Lightsaber” devices used by the characters of the STAR WARS universe.
Perhaps the voice over talents and the script writers coined the “Laser Sword” term because it was easy for most of the kids in those times to relate since the kids had familiarize themselves with the STAR WARS heroes using such devices.
Frankly, I’m not comfortable with this because I feel calling the Ten-Ku-Ken as Laser Sword diminish the weight of importance of this weapon in regards to the Voltes V series.
Somewhere in 1978, the “movie” version of Voltes V was shown in local theaters and the foreign voice over talents (rumored to be Indian nationals) continues to call the Ten-Ku-Ken as “Laser Sword”. They even erroneously labeled Voltes V’s “Chain Knuckles” as “Rocket Punch” a formidable weapon of the Go Nagai super robot series, “Mazinger Z”!

In regards to STAR WARS’ Laser Sword or Lightsabre the epic movie suffered several “Laser Sword” imitations most of which came from both Japanese and American cartoons.
I feel the “Lightsabre” is an original Gorge Lucas concept and I can only shake my head in both disgust and disbelief upon learning how other so called movie or T.V. show creator jumps into Director Lucas’ galactic band wagon.
One shining example of imitation came from the “Gundam” series where the giant mobile suits sports “Lightsabre-like” devices to battle their enemies. Another one is the live action Japanese Sci-fi series called “Message from Space” were a “Chewbacca” look alike and a storyline based on a “STAR WARS”-like format.

Proudly, I can safely declare that Voltes V had held on its own heavenly sword and had nothing to do with the “Lightsabre” or “Laser Sword” imitation.

Filipinos had a penchant for mislabeling things like the word “Salvage” as summary execution instead of its true meaning as being “saved from loss” or destruction and the word “Samurai” as the Japanese traditional sword instead of its true term as “Katana.” I’m not sure from what trashy culture we Filipinos had derived this trait, but I believe, Voltes V’s “Ten-Ku-Ken” turned “Laser Sword” is one of these inaccuracies and it never sits with me lightly.

Spotlight on: Megumi Oka

2008-04-16T19:01:00.000-07:00

She was renamed “Jamie Robinson” by the talented voice dubbers of the Filipino/English version of Voltes V way back in 1978. Well, I can’t find a connection between the name Megumi and Jamie but I suspect the name “Jamie” was inspired by “Jamie Somers”; the female lead character from the then hit TV series “Bionic Woman”. The voice talents should have called her “Meg”.

Megumi Oka was the only female member of the Voltes Team and she was depicted as a lovely young 16 year old Japanese girl; she’s calm, quiet, resourceful yet very dangerous; her father was Field General Oka, 110th descendant of the fierce Oka ninja clan and just like her father, Megumi grew up with the harsh life of training, honing and perfecting her skills as she and her father starts the day exercising deadly Ninjitsu maneuvers against each other portrayed in several Voltes V episodes. Sure enough, Megumi had used her ninja skills on several episodes where one of them, she had to rescue her father from the pursuing Boazanian troops.

Megumi was the voice of reason and conscience of the team, she was there when Kennichi and Ippei was about to collide from their differences and stop them both right on their tracks. But Megumi had her own moments; she was sweet yet rarely laughs and was seem to be contented to smile to show her satisfaction. An episode revealed that Megumi was some sort of a daddy’s girl and after her father died, Megumi clammed up her emotions when ever she was with her team mates, only to shed her tears when she was alone.

I remember my elementary days, where kids compare Voltes V against Mazinger Z, the childish debates often leads to “Who is more beautiful between the two female characters, Megumi or Sayaka Yumi?” Majority of the answers fall on Megumi...and why not, her oval face, sexy long legs and thick pony tail says it all.
Just more recently, as I attended an anime convention, Megumi was pit against Voltron’s Princess Allura. A super robot enthusiast told me there is no contest; Megumi was a professional “Kunnoichi (Ninja Girl) and she can always assassinate Princess Allura in her sleep, if only Megumi is not so damn sweet.

Spotlights on: Hiyoshi Go

2008-04-16T18:59:00.000-07:00

Hiyoshi was the youngest of the Go brothers and the Voltes Team. The TV series illustrates him as a “Child genius” aside from being a seasoned aqua-fighter. He was called “Little Jon” in the dubbed Philippine/English version of the series and there were episodes where he acts as a technical trouble shooter every time a Volt Machine had trouble in the field or if Chodenji Mashin Voltes V was having modifications. Young Hiyoshi loved to invent things and most of the time; he ends up arguing with his oldest brother Kennichi because of his hobbies. Hiyoshi was capable enough to build a small, flying octopi computer called “Tako” (Octo one).

But deep inside, Hiyoshi was just a little boy who was plunged into the harsh reality of a savage invasion and was thrown into danger several times; had seen the death of his own mother and had seen the death of their elderly base commanders. Hiyoshi was the youngest soldier ever to be subjected in an inhuman training session arranged by Professor Sanjuki, student of the late Professor Hamaguchi.

Hiyoshi was a silent yet somewhat tough and cheerful kid who longed to feel the long lost love of his father, and hoped someday to reunite with his missing parent as he and his teammate’s approaches victory.

Spotlight on: Daijiro Go

2008-04-16T18:54:00.000-07:00

Daijiro was the largest teenage member of the Voltes Team.
He was called “Big Bert” by the Filipino voice talents who dubbed the series in 1978.
In Japanese, “Dai” means large, important and perhaps that’s where the “Big” in Big Bert must have come from.

Daijiro was the second of the Go brothers and to my relief; he was not depicted as an insatiable pig, prevalent among huge bodied characters. Daijiro was more of a martial artist who mastered exotic techniques in the skill of oriental combat. He was also called as a defense tactician and was said to have studied from an Eastern monk although the series never stressed him having to do with monks, it was clear that Daijiro was a highly skilled martial arts fighter from the start; the Naginata Battle Staff was his especiality.

As I’ve seen in the Voltes V series episodes, Daijiro was a quiet type yet not afraid to voice out his opinions from time to time. He was not boastful and proud and seems to care much about his team mates’ well being in both battles and training. Daijiro was always seen fishing beside the rocky shores of “Falcon Island” if not in his training sessions.

Daijiro was there, helping Kennichi master the art of the “Butterfly Return” technique to be used against a fearful Beast Fighter. Daijiro was there when the Boazanian forces released a robot likeness of Professor Kentaro Go, his long lost father to wreck havoc inside Camp Big Falcon.

Daijiro was there, saving a little puppy from an enemy beast fighter in disguise but the highlight of his adventure in Voltes V was his capture by a Boazanian expeditionary league where he was put into prison with another prisoner who was really his lost father.

It was an emotionally charged reunion that lasted for some moment that leads to a daring yet failed attempt to escape. Daijiro returned to Camp. Big Falcon without recovering his father but he remained hopeful with the Voltes Team until the time he with his other brothers and team mates, venture forth into Boazanian and finally reunited with their long lost father.

Spotlight on: Ippei Mine

2008-04-15T22:44:00.000-07:00

The Japanese super robot team format is composed of four to five, usually five heroic pilots, tasked to drive a giant defender robot programmed to protect Planet Earth.
The Voltes Team is not an exception; a leader, a hot shot, a bright kid, a gentle giant and a token female member.

Ippei Mine was the second member of the Voltes Team. He was renamed “Mark Gordon” by the Filipino voice-overs in 1978. Mark Gordon- Talk about ironies; the producer of the so-called Voltron movie is named Mark Gordon...and as I have discussed in earlier posts, Voltron is nothing but an inferior copy cat of Voltes V.

But the “Mark Gordon” name used in the Voltes V shows by the voice-over talents was not inspired by the Mark Gordon who produced the Voltron movie; heck Voltes V was there long before this Mark Gordon fellow made a mark in his career. I believe the name Mark Gordon was inspired by “Flash Gordon” in the early American sci-fi serials.

Ippei Mine was depicted in the series as “Cool under pressure”; the show portrayed Ippei as an immigrant from the United States so he was shown in the usual “cowboy” stereo-type. He thought that his mother had abandoned him and his ailing father, and because of this, he grew up bitter hating all mothers (yeah...right) but it turns out that his mother had died trying to save her family from an attacking wolf pack. There’s a shortfall in this particular plot; the “Old West” scenario every time there were “flash backs” showing Ippei’s past and Voltes V’s time line was supposed to be somewhere in the future...

Ippei grew up in the streets, learning the unwritten laws of the concrete jungle. He was constantly looking for a job until he landed on a ranch (or circus...whatever) where he learned to use a whip and learned to take care of horses. His constant trainings with horses made him a top notch rodeo champion in a very early age. This is enough for General Oka to pick him up forcibly and made him a member of the Voltes Team.

At first, Ippei had his differences with the Go brothers, especially with Kennichi but in the later part of the series, Ippei seem to mellow down and seem to agree with Kennichi at many times, but Ippei appears to show some concerned feelings for Megumi Oka, the only female member of the Voltes Team and the only daughter of the ill-fated General Oka.

Frankly, I feel there’s something wrong in Ippei’s life format, not that it's undesirable or anything but it sounded like it’s not from a Voltes V story or any other super robot show. It was like in a different story like something from the old West (Where the "deer and the antelope play" so to speak...). Anyway, he became a member of the Voltes Team and he had shown his utmost dedication for the defense of Planet Earth.

Spotlight on : Kennichi Go

2008-04-15T22:38:00.000-07:00

He was called “Steve Armstrong” by the Filipino dubbers from the 1978 anime series Chodenji Mashin Voltes V, a year where the Philippine public had no or limited knowledge about Japanese Animation.

I can’t reconcile any similarities, how minute they maybe between the name Kennichi and Steve. The dubbers should have named this character “Ken”. I suspect, the character’s name was derived from “Steve Austin” the hero from the hit series “The Six Million Dollar Man”. His family name “Armstrong” obviously came from the U.S. Astronaut who first landed on the moon.

Anyway, Kennichi was depicted in Voltes V as an adroit motocross champ and a master marksman. In some write-ups, he was mentioned as a fighter pilot perhaps these qualities qualify him as the team leader of Voltes V.

Kennichi’s character was that of a kid, who suddenly shouldered all the adult responsibilities after the disappearance of his father. The series showed his love for his parents, especially in the episode where his mother died trying to save him and the other Voltes Team from being dangerously locked in a beast fighter’s grip. Sometimes, his character was firm as a rock on a wavy shore, and many times did he scolded his younger brother Hiyoshi if Hiyoshi was out of line and doing other things than those that require utmost priority. Yet at times, his teenage dispositions overshadow these grownup qualities.

There were several times he insisted on taking on the enemy himself just to make sure that his team mates are all safe. Naturally this does not sit well with the other Voltes Team. There were times that Kennichi was involved in fights; may these against the Boazanian Prince Heinnel and his generals or Ippei, one of his team mates or a grave discussion with Professor Sanjuki, the late Professor Hamagichi’s student who replaced him in command . Kennichi exercise a lengthy stream of expressive rhetoric and emotional outbursts rivaling those of corny tele-novella dramas. These scenes just show that Kennichi’s character is still much very flawed and that makes him ever more human.

Kennichi’s character is not that typical “ladies man” who swept many girls off their feet just like in many shows. The Voltes Team seems to function more in brotherly camaraderie than a group where the female hero tends to have amorous feelings for the male hero.

The series showed three of Camp Big Falcon’s pertinent coordinators perished under the strain of Boazanian onslaughts; Professor Mitsuyo (Kennichi’s mother), Professor Hamaguchi and Field General Oka. Their deaths may have shaken Kennichi but it never toppled his strong resolve. Kennichi’s character was bent on defending the Earth and the search for his long lost father.

Borutesu No Uta sung by Mitsuko Horie

2006-11-06T18:58:00.000-08:00

Voltes V volting sequence

2006-11-05T21:31:00.000-08:00

Voltes V Old Toys

2006-11-05T21:29:00.000-08:00

Voltes V's Megumi Oka (Jamie Robinson) in 3D

2006-08-27T21:23:00.000-07:00

(Note: The Voltes V image in the background is NOT mine.)

Sci-fi stories BEFORE Voltes V.

2006-08-07T23:24:00.000-07:00

As far as I know, the United States was and still is, the supreme ”kahuna” regarding memorable Science Fiction Classics.
Old favorites such as “Flash Gordon and “Buck Rogers” where the main epitome of the Science Fiction Universe.

But there are sci-fi classic that disturbs me; “War of the Worlds”; “Mars Attacks”; “V”: “Invasion of the Body Snatchers”; “The Day the Earth Stood Still”; “Independence day” had one common theme; The Invasion of Earth by Alien hostiles from outer space!”

The old Sci-Fi scenarios of the past had depicted alien oppressors showing off their might and powering the form of ultra advance technology in space navigation and warfare, crushing their usually out classed human opponent.
Then, the invaders pulverizing human structures and monuments of achievements like the Mt. Rushmore or the Eiffel Tower.
These science fiction movies undermine and degrade human capacities and capabilities to its barest, animalistic sense of survival.
These movies also suggest that microscopic bacterium is better off to defend the world from supposed hostile invaders than humans.
What’s even more insulting is that humans in these shows are contented to watch a supposedly defeated alien invader escapes into the darkness, leaving the earth with its vast death toll and ruined cities.

Unlike these American sci-fi movies, Voltes V carried the battle for Planet Earth at the very threshold of the invader’s planet.
Voltes V let the Boazanians taste the destruction they have inflicted against the people of Earth. The Ultra Electro Magnetic Machine destroyed much pertinent structures and monuments that the Boazanians had held so dear, just like what they did to the Earth.

(An Eye for an Eye so to speak!)

Because of this, Voltes V sparks power and inspiration for me and thousands of other classic anime fans...

Voltes V vs Voltron

2006-07-27T20:18:00.000-07:00

I remember the time where a second cousin of mine who hates Voltes V told me about Voltorn and it's supposed "improvements" compared to Voltes V.
That faggot clearly only tries to infuriate me but I took his words more seriously and made a little research myself about Voltron.

Here's what I've found out:

Obviously, Voltron copied most of the concepts in Voltes V and none of these concepts were polished and improved after being added to the Voltron series. These concepts were merely “copy pasted” and then added some cosmetics to show as originals.

1. The Five Man team Concept- Voltron can get away with the reason that most Japanese sci-fi, be these as live action or animated, utilize the Five man team approach for their team heroes.
2. The “Gattai” Concept- Again, Voltron can use this reason since there are scores of giant robot series that’s being formed by multi-functioning machines or smaller robots long before Voltes V came into being.
3. The Giant Sword/final weapon concept- Clearly this is Voltes V’s original (I.e. Voltes V’s Ten-ku-ken or Den-ku-ken since “Den” means lightning or fire.) The two Voltron shows imitated this as “The Blazing Sword.”
4. The VOLT in Voltes V’s name. (It was so obvious that Voltron took Voltes V’s name because of the five man team concept, Gattai Concept and the Giant sword final weapon concept.)

Supposed a fight erupts between Voltron and Voltes V; who will be vanquished and who will be victorious?

Let’s scrutinize this objectively:

1. The Skills and abilities of both teams:

There are no mentions of what kind of combat training the Voltron Force had under went in the academy. In regards to the Voltron episode I’ve seen so far, they were never subjugated under strict, harsh and extreme trainings.
Let’s take the Voltron Force’s skill at face value; they were trained as space explorers. Perhaps, they can thoroughly navigate through deep space and they can handle the controls of different space craft under Galaxy Alliance specifications.
That’s because they are Space Explorers!

The Voltes Team on the other hand, was highly skilled Earth Defense Agents. (Voltes V vol.1: Invasion from Outer Space) they are disciplined in such military and oriental combat skills as Karate, Judo, Kendo, Marksmanship and Ninjitsu.

General Oka, one of Camp. Big Falcon’s elderly base commander was a Ninja master.
Further more, the Voltes Team most likely to use their martial arts skills to Voltes V’s deadly counter attacks (Voltes V vol.4: To Catch a butterfly)

More so, the Voltes Team underwent harsh and murderous training sessions under Dr. Sanjuki where they learned the lethal “Spin-Fly Technique”. (Voltes V vol.9: The need for rigid training.)

I strongly believe that between the Voltes Team and the Voltron Force, the Voltes Team in this aspect had the upper hand.

2. Weapon Comparison of the Two super robots:

Voltron was known to carry an array of space weapons against the “Robeasts” from Planet Doom. (Note: Robeasts are giant monsters that looked like giant clay creatures and lumbers mindlessly like drunken frat boys.)
*Voltron Eye beam
*Voltron Cross-beam
*Voltron Kick
*Voltron Shield
*Voltron Wing Attack
*Voltron Lion Head attack
*a variety of Voltron Missiles
* The Voltron Blazing Sword

On the other hand, Voltes V sports an arsenal of Ninjitsu-based super weapons against the “Beast Fighters” from Planet Boazania. (Note: Beast fighters are sentient giant robot monster-war machines from Boazania. They are mostly covered in heavy armors, they can think, plan an attack and some of them are skilled in archery and swordsmanship.)
*Chain Knuckles
*Finger Missiles
*Grand Fire
*Voltes Kick
*Voltes Bazookas
*Ultra-Electro magnetic Tops
*Ultra-Electro magnetic Beam
*Ultra-Electro Magnetic Whip
*The Big V Sword (Den Ku ken.)
But before Voltes V could use the Den-ku-ken, the great sword unleashes a powerful “Ultra-Electro Magnetic Ball.”
This mighty ball of energy engulfs, weakens the armors and paralyzes the strongest of Voltes V’s opponents. Thus, Voltes V can easily bring down the Den ku ken at the trapped opponent and destroy it with ease.
As an addition, Voltes V can even release several of the Ultra-Electro Magnetic Balls in rapid successions.
One can just imagine how Voltron could fair against something like the Ultra-Electro Magnetic ball.

3. Human sentimentality in both shows:
Most episodes of Voltron I’ve seen, contains no dramatic display of human sentiments what so ever. Yes, the Japanese of Voltron (Golion) had one of the Voltron members die. But in the “tampered” U.S. version, the character Sven retired from service. (Talk about dedication)
The animated series even had a Disney- wannabe ambiance embodied by Space mice, beautiful princesses, (Yeah, Princess Allura - that Disney Princess reject! ) castles and keeps and evil witches. There is nothing in this animated show that I can relate to: No sufferings of slaves, no uncertainties and indecisiveness among the main characters, no cries of anguish among the war victims.
What’s even cornier is the fact that every time a Voltron episode starts to close, a character religiously proclaims Voltron: Defender of the Universe.
Then they made this “Voltron in 3rd Dimension”; a computerized rendering of Voltron. This does not help at all.
All I could see are animated action figures and a 30 minute commercial of a rehashed robot toy for kids to nag at their parents to buy.

Sadly, I can only level Voltron with other corny cartoons like He-Man, Thunder Cats, Scooby-Doo, the Herculoids, Thundar the Barbarian, Denver-the Last dinosaur and the Gobots.
Missing one or fifteen episodes of Voltron means nothing, really.

Voltes V was a different ball game all together: The animated series was a tear jerker among youngsters and a quaint source of inspiration for older viewers.
Voltes V highlights human sentimentality and emphasize the notion of the defense of one’s homeland, is a noble and desirable act.

Unlike other cartoon series in those era, Voltes V depicts the cruelty and barbarity of a mighty alien invasion force over the suffering Boazanian slaves and conquered Earth people altogether.
The Voltes team was not “puppets” or mere mechanical components of Voltes V; The team had their own differences, feelings and sensibilities towards their team mates, and to the other supporting characters.
They are young human warriors who witnessed the death of their self sacrificing mother and longed the warm love of a long lost father.

Voltes V in 3D...

2006-06-20T02:36:00.000-07:00

The VOLTES V/COMBATTRAGodaikin comparison.

2006-06-14T22:12:00.000-07:00

The VOLTES V die-cast metal toys and replicas...

2006-06-14T22:07:00.000-07:00

It was a summer in 1978; a childhood friend of mine came rushing into our yard and bragged his new toy: an almost two feet long, battery operated space ship.

(The thing looks like a bastardized version of Thunderbird One.)

In those times, that toy looks so cool, it has a glowing nose front and it even turns around automatically every time an obstacle block it’s path.

I remember him saying “Beat That!”

So I went back inside and asked my little brother to mobilize the Volt Machines!

Excited, my younger brother took out the Die-cast Volt machines and positioned these beside the strange looking space ship in V-Formation.

My child hood friend looked puzzled: He never saw strange looking “Matchbox” toys before.
Specially the kind with missiles, projectiles and fists! (In those times, Matchbox was the most popular brand of Die-cast metal toys.)

Before he could ask about these metal-space machines; our toys are already firing plastic missiles at his two feet long space ship.
He was nervous although the toy missiles never damaged his plaything.

Then, our big show came: my brother and I starts to muster the five strange-looking “Matchbox”-like metal space ships and before my childhood friend’s widening eyes, we begin to assemble these into a 13 inches metal super robot…Namely Voltes V!

It was a bright childhood summer, and my friend went home with his space ship like a vanquished invader, thinking about the large, metal robot toy that we had.

Voltes V the die-cast metal toy was a craze back then. It was manufactured by a certain Japanese Toy company called “Poppy” and it boasted an “almost” perfect miniature Volt machines rendition and Volt-in combination move, very peculiar for toys in those times.
The toy itself was a marvel of miniature engineering, copying the Volt Machine’s maneuvers based on the animated show and the “Volt-In” moves.

(Except for the Volt Bomber Two, where you have to put a Booster Extender tail when in Volt-Machine form.)

I recall our Voltes V metal toy having yellow arm extenders, the rarest of its kind.

But like all other kids’ toys, our Voltes V die cast metal toy was destroyed, its small parts were lost and its paint faded with antiquity.

Thinking about it saddens me and my young brother.

But wait!...The Voltes V die-cast metal toy returns.

This time, reissued by a Japanese toy company called Bandai, the Voltes V die-cast metal toy appears in the “Godaikin” toy line.

It was our high school days, and it’s easy to save our allowance to buy ourselves our second Voltes V die-cast metal toy.

Unlike our first Voltes V die-cast metal toy, this “new” Voltes V die-cast metal toy was preserved and boxed up!

Aside from Voltes V, we decided to collect about fifteen reissued die-cast super robots under the “Godaikin” trademark of Bandai.

First, Voltes V, then Daimos, Laserion, Abega, Daltanias, Goggle V, Dynaman, Bio Man, Dan Cougar, Daidenjin, God Marz, Leopardon, Combattra, Vavilos and yes, Golion. (Later, tampered by the U.S. to become Voltron Lions.)

Today, the die-cast metal toy of Voltes V is still with us (Preferably boxed up)
It is now widely prized by nostalgic collectors.

Last time I checked, a shining mint conditioned Voltes V super robot die-cast toy is about Ninety five thousand pesos!

Nowadays, prized Voltes V die-cast metal “replicas” are displayed in shelves of comic book stores and ritzy collectors’ nook and anime specialty stores; labeled as “Soul of Chogukin”: the metal replica is scaled down precisely and more accurate in function and appearance.

Sure enough, it was manufactured more with the collector’s in mind rather than for kids.

Undoubtedly, the thing costs a fortune!

The Voltes V illustrated pocket book

2006-06-06T20:52:00.000-07:00

“You may never see them again; you may never see Big Bert, Little Jon, Steve, Mark and Jamie Volt-in again. But you can read about them, again and again in the Voltes V Illustrated Pocket book. Over 140 pages of sheer, super robot fun involving your favorite super robot, Voltes V.
A pocket book to remember, a pocket book about your beloved team.
Voltes V illustrated pocket book…Limited editions only…”

These were the words that describes Questor International ‘s Voltes V illustrated pocket book.
The pocket book was published shortly after Marcos puts the ban on super robot animated shows.
It was a small, pocket sized comic book and the artwork maybe fair but not really for Voltes V.
The Voltes V images are not “manga-nized”; compared to the works of current, so-called Filipino manga artists (Who’re undoubtedly being influenced by later Japanese T.V. animations.)
But as one could study the artworks carefully, one could see the “attempt” of the artists to imitate the style which the subject was regularly recognized. Further close examination also reveal these Filipino artist’s hands being accustomed to U.S. type superhero illustrations.
I consider the Voltes V illustrated pocket book to be a worth while collector’s item, for one could see the Filipino artist’s first endeavor into Japanese manga.

Voltes V's greatest Battle Ever!

2006-06-05T21:32:00.000-07:00

We all read how the late Philippine strong man Ferdinand Marcos supposedly “killed” Voltes V.
We read about the alleged “how’s” and “why’s” behind the cancellation.
Most of these articles are presented in such documentary-type, readers maybe informed, yet these articles does not tickle the imagination.
The article I wrote was based on existing articles about the “Banning of Voltes V by Marcos” but with a little touch of “Super Robot” story line format…

Voltes V’s Greatest Battle ever….

Somewhere in the scheming depths of Malacanang, a talk about dismantling Camp Big Falcon was secretly planned.
They will unleash a great power that will forever silence Voltes V and the great convoy of “super robots” that follows behind him.

Suddenly, Big Falcon received an alarm; a strange alarm that surpasses, even the Boazanian threat. Like wise, Steve, Mark, Big Bert, Little Jon and Jamie rush in to investigate.

The Volt machines raced through Planet Earth’s higher atmosphere, eager to confront a new menace: What they found was a powerful force, greater than Planet Boazania itself.

From out of the darkness, the visage of the Philippine strong man, the great Apo Marcos greets the Voltes Team.

Using his words and presidential proclamations, Great Apo Marcos blasted all of Voltes V’s powerful weapons.

Even the mighty “Den-Ku-Ken” (called “Laser Sword” in those times…probably hitching a ride with the “light saber” of the Star Wars fame) was useless against Marcos’ pen.

Voltes V and the Voltes Team were thrown out into oblivion: along with them, were the other super robot shows like UFO Grendaizer, Daimos, Mazinger Z, Mekanda, Balatack, Danguard Ace, Striker Force, Jeeg, Getta Robot as well as live Japanese science fiction serials like Jack Q, Star Rangers, and Kyodain.

Back on planet Earth, the young children fans of Voltes V and the other super robots were shocked to have found out that their champions are no longer there to inspire them.

But since they were just kids, most of them kept quiet and surrendered the fate of their heroes to destiny.

Apo Marcos and his cronies on the other hand, made excuses that “Voltes V” and company promotes violence towards children. There were also those who said that children are “supposed to study their homework rather watch these violent cartoons.”

Some says that the true reason behind Voltes V's banning is the ending promotes rebellion and the fear of disgruntled masses imitating a certain scene in the show; the non-horned Boazanians storming Zu Zanbasil’s palace.
Other says that it’s all about cronies; Voltes V was a victim of Marcos' martial law and crony capitalism. Because in those times GMA Channel seven, the T.V station that carries Voltes V hits the top of the rating chart leaving a certain station run by a Marcos crony behind.

Then there were those who supported Apo Marcos and his super robot ban; there was a “Roni Santiago” editorial cartoon where a stout mother figure suddenly smacked a “Voltes V” effigy, shielding her son from the violent animation. There was also some news articles calling Voltes V and the other super robots “defunct”.

Then, some “less violent” Japanese anime replaced Voltes V and the other super robot shows. These shows maybe fun to watch, but not as inspiring as Voltes V. Most of these shows are aimed at little girls' tastes.

Then came some Japanese sci-fi shows that may exhibit some violence but are too dull, too lame and irritating to watch.
One of these was “Macross”.

Enter, the American Tampered Animes…

Chief among them was “Voltron: Defender of the Universe”
(A Voltes V/ He man hybrid)

and “The Transformers….”

Strange, Voltron a “Voltes V” wannabe was allowed to air in Philippine Television by Apo Marcos…Perhaps because of the show’s U.S. ties or far more deeper (or shallower) than that.

...I really don't know...

Voltron, (The name OBVIOUSLY came from VOLTES V) may have earned great followers in the U.S. and some more advance countries abroad...

But never here in the Philippines; fans have waited for the right moment for the return of the one and only Voltes V!

…And the right moment did come!

"People Power "revolution destroyed the malevolent might of Apo Marcos!

Not even his “Kabataang Baranggay” could stop the populace from shouting and screaming as they stormed the Malacanang Palace.

The Philippine strong man escaped with his family under the wings of U.S. protection.
He was thrown into exile in Hawaii with his family.

Voltes V‘s return was foreseeable…

And Voltes V DID return!...

…In greater glory; larger than life did the immense super robot stood with renewed dignity.

Woe was Voltron who cower beneath Voltes V’s shadow.

Voltron, the self proclaimed Defender of the Universe never experienced a hero’s welcome, unlike that of Voltes V.

Voltes V returns to GMA Channel Seven where it was once aired.

Camp. Big Falcon and the Voltes team resumed their fight with Prince Zardoz and the Boazanian invaders. This time, their adventure proceeded to the very end.

Sad to say, the other super robots never returned.

Only Daimos managed to reutrn with Voltes V.

Then there was a so-called scant return of Mazinger Z ( I only heard the "Mazinger Z " return from rumors.)

Lately a rival T.V studio, ABS-CBN took Voltes V under the wings of its Hero Channel cable network.

Both Voltron and Marcos are dead.

But Voltes V lives on in the hearts of loyal fans and a new generation of anime mech fans.

Boazanian Imperial Hardware

2006-06-05T21:29:00.000-07:00

The Boazanian Invasion Force utilizes Boazania’s most greatest war machines for their efforts in conquering the Earth.

The Boazanian Skull ship Sky Rook:
Flagship of the Boazanian Invasion Force, under Prince Heinell (Zardoz).
The ship looks like a giant skull with massive horns, topped with a fairy tale castle. The ship can go almost anywhere, on sky, under sea, under ground and in space.
It serves as a reconnaissance vehicle, a beast fighter and cargo carrier, a command module and Prince Zardoz’s (Heinell) imperial transport.

The Boazanian Underground Castle:

One of Do Zuuru’s (Zhul) contribution to the Imperial might of the Boazanian Invasion Force, is the Underground Castle; a large, heavily fortified hidden base which serves as war factory and Beast Fighter Laboratory.
It also serves as Prince Zardos’ hide away where he could relax, contemplate and plan strikes against Camp.Big Falcon.

The Boazanian Disc Fighters (Flying Saucers):

The main stay hardware in the Boazanian Imperial War arsenal; The Disc Fighters are heavily armored, long ranged attack spaceships, armed with lethal electrical rays. Use as “shock and awe” offense units by the Boazanian Empire.

Zantal (translates as Mechanical Eagle)- Appears in episodes 24, 25, 26, and 27. Powers include mach 30 flight and anti maxingal bolts used to weaken out beast fighters with maxingal armor.

Heinel's Fighter- Appears in episode 30. Powers include flight and can emit electric surges.

False Voltes Machines- Appear in episode 35. Powers include flight presumably mach 20 and energy bullets.

Boazanian Flagship- Appear in episodes 38 and 39. Powers include pink energy bolts, and yellow energy barrier.

Zeltan- Appears in episodes 38 and 39 and it the capital ship of General Gurur. Powers include a particle wave field that is space disturbance particles that cause explosions with their effects lost in atmospheres and volleys of missiles.

The Boazanian Invasion Force

2006-05-28T04:53:00.000-07:00

Prince Heinell (Zardoz) leads the Boazanian Invasion Force against the Planet Earth.

Aside from a vast army of horned shock troopers, three distinguished Boazanian generals were assigned to help him in his expedition of conquest:

*Do Zuuru (Zhul): An old Boazanian robotic scientist specializing in the designs and creations of powerful Beast Fighters. For some reason, Zhul is a grotesque Boazanian with only a small horn. It does not explained as to why he was given such a high position since he had only one thin horn, but Zhul does aim high with ambition; and it caused him his life when he was discovered doing treason against Prince Zardoz (Heinell)

*Catherine Lee (Zandra): A young and wealthy Boazanian officer who was secretly in loved with Prince Heinell (Zardoz). Many times did she offer to help fight and destroy the Voltes team by expressing her ready sacrifice; she even used her own “space wolf” pet and turned it into a beast fighter to defeat Voltes V. She is the very last Boazanian general to die and she dies in the arms of her beloved Prince Zardoz (Heinell)

*Jangal Rui (Draco): Another ugly-looking Boazanian; Huge bodied, wearing a Roman-centurion outfit and had a hellish red skin, Draco was a Boazanian general with large three horns. He was very loyal to Prince Heinell (Zardoz) and at one time, he even worked and competes with Zhul’s Beast fighter making. In the end, he killed himself when he was about to be captured by the Voltes team.

*General Do Bergan (General Ozlack): Zhul (Do Zuuru) was replaced by a mysterious Boazanian general named General Ozlack; another Boazanian scientist who blocked Camp. Big Falcon’s radar detectors in his arrival.
Haughty and boastful at first, Gen. Ozlack presents with pride his “Maxigold” armor: armor so strong, not even Voltes V’s “Den-Ku-Ken” sword could penetrate.
He is wearing a battle armor made of the same material. But his armor did have a weakness and finally it was discovered by Dr. Hook.After the defeat of his “Maxigold” armor, General Ozlack’s boastfulness had minimized.
Yet in the end, Gen. Ozlack abandoned Prince Zardoz (Heinell) and took-off with the emperor’s army.
He was killed in the battle for Boazania’s liberation.

Duke Zaki

Emperor Zambajil's Chief Inspector, and one of few who knew about Zamabajil's betrayal to Lagour and the Boazanian throne. He is well known to deliver bad news to the emperor from his scouting, thus many executions ordered by the Emperor was a result of his reports. Zambajil sent him to Earth to report on Heinel's progress, but discreetly wanted him to ensure Heinel's death at the hands of Voltes V. He plotted with Zuhl to have Heinel pilot a beast fighter, while at the same time leaked information to Big Falcon about the beast fighter's weak points. His plan backfired when Katharine overheard the plot. Heinel ordered Zuhl to reinforce the weak points, and in mid battle the beast fighter destroyed Zaki's nearby ship with him inside.

Coordinators of Camp.Big Falcon

2006-05-24T21:13:00.000-07:00

The young Voltes Team is managed by seasoned elderly base commanders. Their specific task is to guide the Voltes Team and Voltes V to Victory!
Sure enough, their commanding presence lend to the human drama of each episode:

Dr. Kentaro Gou (Dr. Michael Armstrong):

Barron Hrothgar took the name Dr. Michael Armstrong when he joined the Earth International Defense Force and built Voltes V.
The Father of Steve (Kennichi), Big Bert (Daijiro) and Little John (Hiyoshi), Dr. Armstrong somehow believes that he can still reason with Emperor Zanbasil and his regime. After the construction of Voltes V, he returned back to Boazania hoping to stop their invasion forces. He never returned back to Earth.

Dr. Mitsuyo Gou (Dr. Mary Anne Collins-Armstrong):

A noted Earth Defense Scientist who became Barron Hrothgar’s second wife. Dr. Mary Anne Armstrong assisted in the development of the Voltes V Super robot defense system.
At first, she seemed cold and impersonal; Dr. Mary Anne Armstrong even sent her three children, Steve (Kennichi), Big Bert (Daijiro) and Little John (Hiyoshi) in a top secret training center that conducts harsh and rigid Earth Defense training and those who tries to escape will be shot!
But in the first second episode, she displayed her motherly love when a Boazanian Beast Fighter was able to pinned Voltes V helpless; wounded, Mrs. Armstrong boarded an attack jet and crashed this at the face of the Beast Fighter in a “kamikaze” manner that saved the team from certain doom.

Professor Hamaguchi (Dr. Richard Smith):

A colleague and friend of Dr. Armstrong, Dr. Smith was one of those who assisted in the development of the Voltes V Super Robot Defense System. A noted Earth Defense scientist, Dr. Smith became the civilian coordinator of Camp. Big Falcon. He lead the Voltes Team through many victories in the first episodes of the series, he was also responsible for the further improvement of the Voltes V Super Robot Defense System. (In regards to the super robot’s ultra-electro magnetic central device located in the giant robot’s forehead.)
Soon, he was captured by the Boazanians but he managed to escape and in the process, he died trying to tell the Voltes Team of the invaders’ further plans.

Major General Oka (Commander Robinson):

Chief Officer of the Earth International Defense Force: An excellent Ninjitsu expert and a friend of Dr. Michael Armstrong. Commander Robinson heeded and supported Dr. Armstrong’s warnings of the impending Boazanian Invasion. He was the father of Jamie Robinson (Megumi Oka) the only female member of the Voltes Team.

Dr. Sakunji (Dr.Hook):

After most of their coordinators eliminated, the Voltes Team was forced to deal with the management of Camp. Big Falcon. The Boazanians thought of this as an opportunity to defeat Planet Earth’s final defender so they unleashed their power against the ill-attended defense fortress.
In the midst of this crisis, a mysterious Earth Defense scientist took on Camp. Big Falcon’s helm and helped the defense fortress and Voltes V overcome the Boazanian onslaught.
His name is Dr. Hook; a scientist who claims to be Dr. Richard Smith’s former student.
A ruthless perfectionist, many times did Dr. Hook sent the Voltes Team on murderous trainings. He even threw out the Voltes Team’s personal effects so they could focus on their exercises.
He is also the one responsible for Voltes V’s “Spin Fly Technique”, and the development of the “Ultra-Electro Magnetic Ball.”
Harsh and ruthless he maybe, but Dr. Hook had hone down Voltes V’s fighting abilities more efficiently until the time they would have to venture into space and fight the Boazanians on their own turf.

Panty peeks in VOLTES V?

2006-05-09T21:40:00.000-07:00

I remember when I was a kid, I used to watch Western type cartoons (mostly done by Hanna-Barberra).
But when “Voltes V” came marching in on Philippine Television, I was hooked beyond belief; there were elements in the show that’s totally different from U.S. cartoons: Sword fights, intense drama and human sufferings, real death and destruction stuff.

Another thing that I noticed was the fearless showing of female underwear in the cartoons.
I really don’t understand why most Japanese animes from Voltes V’s times (And even so in the present) had this fetish on girls panties (they’re predominantly “white”.)
But one thing is sure, American cartoons in those times never shows what their female characters wear beneath their skirts, the Japanese approach was more radical and I thought, this method was aimed at younger male viewers. (Or the “panty” thing in Japan is just as natural as placing scripts on the characters and was not even a big deal for the viewers…)
Voltes V was not exempted in this “panty showing rule”: There are episodes where the character Megumi has to dodge a whip attack from the Ippei character. Doing so, her skirt flares up, showing her undies.

Another episode (Jamie’s dream) shows Megumi in a hurry, and she starts to put on her boots. The frame camera is in an angle where
The viewers could have a scant look of her panty-covered pubic area.

The Shameful Son of a non horned.

2006-02-10T20:54:00.000-08:00

After the slave revolt, Zu Zanbasil ordered the burning of all of Baron Hrotgar’s pictures. He even forbade the mention of his name, thus erasing the memory of Baron Hrotgar in Boazan history. Yet, Baron Hrotgar haunts the evil Zanbasil so he deployed thousands of scout troops across space to find and apprehend his imperial rival.
Fleeing from Zu Zanbasil’s wrath, Hrotgar’s parents went to live in a secluded country. They brought along their grandson, Hrotgar’s heir as outcast from the nobility.

He was raised and given the best education possible through private tutors. Just like his father, this young Boazanian boy excels in the fields of science and engineering. But there is one sour note to his existence; outside his sanctuary, every one knows that he was Hrotgar’s son. They transferred their anger at Hrothgar to his son.

His noble status does not shield him from ridicules and insults.

Baron Hrotgar’s son lived a troubled, miserable and lonely life. But he never shed a tear. He was determined to discard this great burden of shame his father had left him.

With this resolve, Baron Hrothgar’s son, Prince Heinel (Prince Zardoz in Philippine television) studied carefully the arts of military science and tactics. He was the brightest student among his batch and he had proven himself in numerous combat. He was awarded many merits, including being appointed leader of the Boazanian Earth Invasion Force.

The Imperial Disgrace

2005-11-03T18:56:00.000-08:00

The 123rd Boazanian Emperor had no wife, his only son is a mentally retardate. Thus there was no one to succeed him.
One day, his brother was blessed with the birth of the long awaited heir. The Nobility greeted this event with great joy.
But the child was born without horns, which is a symbol of Nobility. It is most likely that the child would never become emperor, even if his blood were the blood of royalty.
Worse, it was very possible that the child would drop to the position of a slave.
When the father learns about this malformation, he was filled with anger and despair that he aims to kill the child. But his wife insisted that the child is innocent and volunteers to die with him if the father pursues to end the child’s life.
And so, the misfortune was left a secret between his family and the doctors.
The child was named Hrothgar and was given artificial horns; everyone believed that he was a deserving member of the nobility. But as Hrothgar grew, he noticed the harsh and barbaric treatment thrown against the non-horned tribes. He was aghast and filled with compassion. He knew he was one of those without horns.
Hrothgar graduated with the highest honors in his class. He was immediately appointed as the Minister of Science.
Barron Hrothgar had a lovelife: A young Boazanian lady by the name of Luceria their love was so strong that he revealed his deepest secret before her. Lady Luceria accepted Barron Hrothgar as he is and they were happily married, and they both expect a child from their union.
The day came when the emperor passed away. The whole planet mourned for his departure then comes the problem of who will succeed his throne: The son of the emperor’s brother, Barron Hrothgar or the son of the emperor’s mistress Zu Zanbasil.
However, it looked like the favor rest before Barron Hrothgar. By virtue and by law, he was the most qualified.
But Zu Zanbasil uses all his connections to uncover whatever can of worms Barron Hrothgar would be hiding. He will not rest until he throws Hrothgar out of the imperial contest.
The time has come for Hrothgar to sit in the throne, his child hood dreams of abolishing slavery from Boazania is at hand when suddenly, Zu Zanbasil halted the ceremony and exposed Hrothgar’s deepest secret: That he was a non-horned Boazanian!
Immediately, Hrtohgar was stripped out of his noble rank and was thrown to the dungeons as a slave. Luceria was thrown into prison as well. She died giving birth and knowing this made Hrothgar’s life, even more miserable.
Zu Zanbasil was now crowned as the 124th emperor of Boazania. Those who had followed and supported him were generously awarded. Those who opposed him were punished severely.
Zanbasil was so ambitious…and he plans to conquer not only the Boazanian star empire system but the outer systems as well. During the reign of the 88th emperor, Boazania had embarked on a program of conquest, which was very successful. Ever since then, Boazania had not conquered any planets and lived in peace. Zu Zanbasil decided to imitate this feat by conquering the planetary systems outside the galaxy. War preparations are made and the Boazanian army was fortified. War machines were up to dated and the Beast Fighters were again employed.
Meanwhile, Hrothgar continued to live in misery and shame. He swore to overthrow Zanbasil’s empire and free the slaves! Using his skill and intelligence in science and technology, Hrothgar secretly devised weapons and trained the slaves to fight. The non-horned tribe rallied to his cause and one day, in a military ceremony, attacked the forces of Zu Zanbasil.
At first, the rebel slaves caught the Boazanian army off guard. But the military easily recovered and uses their might to destroy the uprising. Realizing this, the slaves forced Hrothgar to flee Boazania. They believe he will return to create a great revolution for the non-horned people.
Hrotgar’s escape ship wandered aimlessly, until it crash-landed on Earth. A beautiful astronomer named Dr. Mary Anne Collins recovered him. He fell in love with her and they were married. He changed his name to Dr. Ned Armstrong and he worked with Dr. Richard Smith and Commander Robinson in the development of a super secret weapon to arm the Earth from the advancing Boazanian Invasion fleet conducted by his rival Zu Zanbasil.

That super weapon is Voltes V!

Camp Big Falcon: Voltes V's Defense Fortress.

2005-11-01T19:32:00.000-08:00

Located on a Bird-shaped island called "Falcon Island", is Camp. Big Falcon.
The Earth defense Base of the Ultra Electro Magnetic Machine Voltes V.
Camp Big Falcon is equipt with it's own housing, research, factory, medical, defense stations. The front facade, stencilled with large numbers from 1 to 5 serves as the Volt Machine's launching bay.
The base has a built-in training center, in doors and out doors for the Voltes Team and the Volt Machines.
It is guarded by various kinds of laser and missile launchers, strategically located in parts of the island.
It is also equipped with a powerful force field barrier to repel enemy beast fighters and other giants attacking it.
In the final phase of the series, Camp Big Falcon was more than meets the eye; The Ootori Jima Island was really an uber large, space fortress that docked with their new ally, "The Solar Bird."
Combined. Camp.Big Falcon turned into a powerful bird-like space station that journeyed through the stars and brings the war on planet Boazania's doorsteps.

A pejorative group called Camp V5

2005-09-06T18:50:00.000-07:00

(Camp V5 is an organization formed by anime enthusiasts who is part of the collective group that petitioned for the return of Voltes V to Philippine Television.As every Filipino knows, Voltes V was shown in the Philippines in the late seventies. But with only around five episodes left to complete the series, then President Marcos banned this and other super robot anime. A lot has been said about the reasons why such a harsh act was done to this day. But after twenty long years, Voltes V came back to the airwaves (this was last 1999), to the delight of both today's younger generation and the Martial Law kids. To all of us, an excellent reason to rush home on a Friday night and watch primetime TV with the family!)
O.K. This is what a popular Voltes V fan group said in their website.
Camp V 5 is perhaps undoubtedly Voltes V’s premier group in the Philippines.
Being a fan myself, I joined in their Yahoo group, hoping to make friends and associate myself with them, after all were all Voltes V fans.
At first, there’s a fellow who announced a sight showing off a so-called Voltes V in 3D (The work is very much “boxey” looking but hey, its Voltes V.)
Then there’s a nice member who offers me some kind of graphic down load that I can use. As a friendly gesture, I told this group about my very own super robot story “Daigan D.A.”
Suddenly, here comes someone who calls himself “meowok”. He reads my message and replied in such a manner: “Turn around so I can hit you on the head!”

As natural as the sun shines in the east, I was irritated by such harsh insult.
Perhaps it’s some kind of jest for this bastard to affront his fellow member as some kind of camaraderie.
So, I stop to think, “Is this Camp V 5 a TRUE haven for Voltes V fans…or was it just a place for rich slobs to hang around and tickle their anuses.”

I’m a Voltes V fan; I know the follies of the characters, the inanity of how the story goes, but I’m an avid fan and I live up to that description!

The last thing I need is a blatant remark from some one who does not even had the guts to show his real name!

I decided to leave this group but before I did, I told meowok “before he can hit me over the head, he should take his stupid Voltes V toys and shove it in his smelly rich guy’s ass or in his mother’s stinking c__t…Son of a f___ing ho___y bitch!”

I left the Yahoo Group, with regrets as to why joining it in the first place.
Sure there are nice members, but “meowok’s insulting remark out weights it all.
After I’ve left, I thought: “You can be a fan of any thing you want,(Voltes V, Voltron, Transformers, Star Wars, Star Trek, Lord of the Rings, Disneys et all.) even without joining any group whose only thing it’s good at is to insult you.”

A World called Boazan

2005-08-31T20:41:00.000-07:00

Boazan, the eight planet of a star cluster said to be the seat of the Boazanian star empire. (Empire of the Horn)
Here lies the great imperial court that houses all the executive functions of the empire.
Due to the liberal reign of Makron XII, (A late Baozanian emperor) the planet avoided to become a mechanized city world. Boazanina remained a natural world and retained much of its natural life support systems.
The planet was divided into feudal zones and sectors. Each member of the nobility had an administrative function. They also appear in the imperial court from time to time.
Boazan has an estimate population of 15 trillion. The populaces are divided into two classes; the horned and the non-horned.
The presence of horns signifies a higher-class individual. This individual enjoys the rights and privileges of the nobility.
The non-horned ones are subservient and slaves. The individual without horns are not free, they are not allowed to have property and possessions and cannot marry unless their masters permit them.
The slaves perform 97,3 percent of all manual labor. Most work is of agricultural matters; others work as servants, messengers, and clerks.
Boazania is self sufficient in food. Very few industries regarding machineries and technology are developed. Boazania still have to rely on imports.
Primarily, Boazanina offers many resorts, pleasures and other entertainment activities. It’s a vacation spot with a rating of .83%. Making it an ideal tourist planet.
The emergence of Boazania as a stellar invader was made possible during the reign of Hakkor IV. The development of rocket propulsion enabled the Boazanians to reach other worlds. But plans for the explorations of space were shelved due to impracticality.
The intra-stellar drive was perfected during the later years of Hakkronian rule. Although still too slow and crude, “Generation” ships were affected due to the growing Boazanian population. It would take decades to reach the next stellar system. Boazanians would die and be born along the trip. That was before the leap to interstellar drive. The drive was powered by light converted into electromagnetic propulsion.
Amplified by the discovery of Graadar Warps, plotted by Grad Zeegar (Boazanian physicist) expeditions into deep space tripled!
But chrono-spatio development was not applicable to arms and weaponry.
Boazan developed more conventional weapons, progressing along the lines of atomics and nucleic.
Eons ahead of Earth, by the time they invaded the planet; Boazan’s military might was more sophisticated and prevailing.

The Beast Fighters was the apex of Boazan’s war efforts. These machines are massive cybernaut warriors that come to life with the transplantation of Boazanian minds into the robot’s computers.
The Beast Fighters made Boazania, a match to any civilization in the galaxy. A destructive military force supported the imperial explorations.

The galactic center was brought under Boazan’s imperial rule, and in 2094, Boazan reached the periphery and Earth was the first of the outer worlds to be assaulted.
The Imperial war officials supposed planet Earth as the easiest to be subjugated.
However, this is NOT true.

2005-07-28T20:43:00.000-07:00

Weapons of the Ultra Electro Magnetic Machine

The development of the Ultra Electro Magnetic Machine provided planet Earth a defense system loaded with varied arsenals of lasers, rays, beams, missiles and other deadly projectiles.

These are as follows:

1. Gatling Missiles (Finger Missiles): A powerful barrage of missiles launched from the hands of Voltes V. These blast a beast fighter.

2. Choudenji Beam (Ultra Electro Magnetic beam): A microwave beam that shoots out from the yellow beam button of Voltes V’s chest. This burns a beast fighter’s innards.

3. Chain Knuckles (Chain Knuckles): Giant, ninjitsu-like projectiles consisting of massive chains, fitted with rocket-like drills at each ends. These are launched from Voltes V’s hands and can bore holes into a beast fighter’s body. Voltes V can drag the enemy to further destruction.

4. Grand Fire (Ground Fire): A powerful beam of pyro-energy that spews out of Voltes V’s belt buckle. Burns a beast fighter to the ground.

5. Voltes Bazooka (Concealed bazookas): Voltes V’s right hand bends further and automatically turns into a giant, revolver-like cannon. Shoots a beast fighter dead.

6. Choudenji Goma (Ultra Electro Magnetic Tops): Giant, nasty looking steel tops that’s fitted with highly sharp steel blades, launched from Voltes V’s torso. Can dice beast fighters. The tops can even carry explosives that blow up on contact with the enemy.

7. Choudenji Ropes (Ultra Electro magnetic whips): Extremely sharp, high-tension steel blades that cut through a beast fighter like samurai swords. These weapons are Voltes V’s belt and even use as conjunction to the Ultra Electro Magnetic Tops.

8. Grand Missile (Voltes Missile): A powerful nuclear missile launched from Voltes V’s belt buckle. Blast a beast fighter to kingdom come.

9. Choudenji Ball (Ultra electro magnetic Ball): A powerful ball of Electro Magnetic energy, created after Voltes V harnessed the power of lightning. Launched from his sword, this lethatl energy ball imprisons beast fighters and weakens their armors.

10. Denkuu Ken (The Lightning sword): Deployed from the large, V-shaped breast plate of Voltes V. The ultimate Sword of Justice. This extremely sharp and tensile alloy sword is re-charged by lightning before Voltes V can use it to cut a beast fighter in a V-shape manner like Zorro’s Z cut as a gesture of coup de grace. (‘V” no Kiri or letter “V” sword cutting.)

Voltes V's tech data.

2005-07-15T04:17:00.000-07:00

“Technical Data of the Voltes V Super Robot Defense System.”

Height: 58 meters
Weight: 600 tons
Classification: Super Robot defense system with multi functioning units.
Type: Gattai (Combining Cybernaut)
Maximum Speed:' mach 20
Pressure Power: 2000 tons
Energy: Ultra Electro Magnetic Energy
Assembly time: 8.0 seconds

The Development of the Ultra Electro Magnetic Machine

Voltes V was conceived and created by Earth International Defense scientists, Dr. Kentaro Gou (A.k.a. – Dr. Ned Armstrong), Dr. Hamaguchi (Dr. Richard Smith), and supports from General Oka. (Cmdr. Robinson) Of the Earth International Defense Force.
Aware of the grave Boazanian invasion threat, the Earth International Defense constructed a powerful 58 meter high super robot powered with intense, ultra electro magnetic energy. Instead of creating only one defense system, Dr. Gou suggested the creation of five, multi-functioning Earth Defense machine components.
These massive machine components dubbed as “Volt Machine V” could integrate to form one colossal powerhouse defense system.
In the process of Voltes V’s creation, several technological breakthroughs were made such as:
The creation of a titanium-platinum alloy reinforced with diamond crystals for extreme heat resistance.

An instantaneous response system was developed, through the use of massive computerized hydraulic devices.

The terrific thrust velocities which attain the speed of Mach 20, through the use of fusion-type drive engine nuclear reactors.

Component machines can integrate through the release of tremendous electro magnetic energy that polarizes the locking mechanisms of each machine.

(Note: In the midst of a crisis, Voltes V's energy absorbing mechanism was improved by the pilot of a strange Mechanical Eagle. The robot was able to absorb tremendous amounts of electrical energy through lightning, and at the same time release this energy as means of weaponry, without exausting it's own stored energy. Thus, the creation of the'Ultra Electro Magnetic (Chodenji) Ball.)

The defense system completed, Voltes V was a scientific achievement surpassing current technology by several hundred years. The Earth is now provided with the fire power surpassing the military might of the Boazanian Empire. Voltes V will always ready as our planet’s last recourse.

(source, Voltes V Wikipedia)

Volt Machine V

2005-07-14T02:01:00.000-07:00

The mighty super robot Voltes V is a "Gattai"-type (Combining component) super robot. That means it is composed of 5-independently functioning Earth Defense machine called Volt Machine V. Combined by the power of intense, ultra electro magnetic energy. They are as follows:

Volt Machine V

Volt Crewzer 1

Code : Ph-Red balance A
Model No. Ci – J
Category: Attack Fighter Interceptor
Operants: AW/2M
Primary: Atmos
Landing: S.T.O.L
Height : 6.82 meters
Weight: 95 tons
Length: 17.73 meters
Width: 17.73 meters
Armaments: Crewzer Missiles Crewzer rockets Crewzer cannon Claw boomerang Crewzer Claw Cutter
Target Definition: Radar-Sonar-Thermal guidance
Armor: Titanium- Platinum Alloy with Diamond reinforcement
Thermal Capacity: 1.43 millisol Shock
Capacity: 15 megatons
Control: Guardian Computer assisted with manual override.

Volt Bomber 2

Code : Ph-Red balance B
Model No. Bx-4G
Category: Attack Bomber Interceptor
Operants: AW/2M
Primary: Atmos
Landing: S.T.O.L
Height : 3.48 meters
Weight: 100 tons
Length: 18.93 meters
Width: 18.18 meters
Armaments: Bomber Missiles Bomber Concealed Bazookas Bomber cannon Bomber Hook Bomber Rings Bomber Chain Knuckles
Target Definition: Radar-Sonar-Thermal guidance
Armor: Titanium- Platinum Alloy with Diamond reinforcement
Thermal Capacity: 1.50 millisol
Shock Capacity: 15 megatons
Control: Guardian Computer assisted with manual override.

Volt Panzer 3

Code : Ph-Red balance C
Model No. PZ-4D
Category: Defense Tank fighter
Operants: AW/Delta M
Primary: land
Landing: V.T.O.L
Height : 18.18 meters
Weight: 220 tons
Length: 13.94 meters
Width: 16.21 meters
Armaments: Panzer Missiles Panzer Arms Panzer cannon Panzer Knuckles Panzer Knife launchers
Target Definition: Radar-Sonar-Thermal guidance
Armor: Titanium- Platinum Alloy with Diamond reinforcement
Thermal Capacity: 1.47 millisol
Shock Capacity: 15 megatons
Control: Guardian Computer assisted with manual override.

Volt Frigate 4

Code : Ph-Red balance D
Model No. F1-C
Category: Attack Fighter Submersible
Operants: AW/2M Primary: Atmos/Nautical
Landing: S.V.T.O.L
Height : 13.77 meters
Weight: 105 tons
Length: 24.85 meters
Width: 26.67 meters
Armaments: Frigate Missiles Frigate lasers Frigate freezer and heat rays.
Target Definition: Radar-Sonar-Thermal guidance
Armor: Titanium- Platinum Alloy with Diamond reinforcement
Thermal Capacity: 1.41 millisol
Shock Capacity: 15 megatons
Control: Guardian Computer assisted with manual override.

Volt Lander 5

Code : Ph-Red balance E
Model No. LDR – 5F
Category: Multi – Terrain Defense Interceptor
Operants: AW/Delta M
Primary: Land/ Multi-terrain, Subterranean
Landing: .V.T.O.L
Height : 11.82 meters
Weight: 80 tons Length: 14.69 meters
Width: 16.66 meters
Armaments: Lander Missiles Lander drills Lander Cement (Chemical thrower) Lander Blaster Lander Underground Camera Lander Star blades
Target Definition: Radar-Sonar-Thermal guidance
Armor: Titanium- Platinum Alloy with Diamond reinforcement
Thermal Capacity: 1.49 millisol
Shock Capacity: 15 megatons
Control: Guardian Computer assisted with manual override.

Megumi Oka/Jamie Robinson.

2005-07-12T01:06:00.000-07:00

Megumi Oka (Jamie Robinson) is one of my favorite female anime characters. (The others are Nausicaa, Aika and Najica.)
She's strong, smart, cute and sexy. She's the voice of concience whenever Steve or Mark clash their differences.
Many Voltes V fans ties her down with either Kenichi Gou (Steve Armstrong) or Ippei Mine (Mark Gordon.) The Voltes V series ended, with a very vauge love story (If there is any.)

Megumi, in my opinion is a free girl, she is not tied to any guy, unlike many anime girls who are infatuated by effeminate leading men like Bunny Sukino (Sailor Moon) Rei and Asuka ( Neon Genesis Evangelion ). Or predictable enough to be involved with the leading guy in the end as in the case of Chuzuru Nambara(Combattler V) and Princess Allura (Voltron.)

The Painting above was done by yours trully by hand, in acrylics.

More than just your "Space Explorers"!

2005-07-08T18:30:00.000-07:00

Voltes V is manned by 5 young people, special Earth Defense Agents, trained harshly and dedicated in the defense of our home planet. These young people inspired many Voltes V fans from the courage and dedication they show in the series. They are called...THE VOLTES TEAM...

The Voltes Team
(More than just “Space Explorers”)
After the disappearance of Dr. Gou, (a.k.a. – Dr. Ned Armstrong) the Earth International Defense force trained five young people as highly skilled, Earth Defense Agents. Resolute and dedicated fighters, these agents will act as both special commando units and pilots of the Ultra Electro Magnetic Machine Voltes V, against the invading Boazanians.

They are as follows:

Kenichi Gou (Steve Armstrong)
Team Leader
Marksman, Motocross Champion, ace pilot, eldest of the Armstrong brothers. He was very adventurous as a child. But the disappearance of his father changed his attitudes. He became more responsible and cared much about his younger brothers and the people that depended on him. Critiques says that Steve has an annoying Goody, goody two shoes personallity.

Ippei Mine (Mark Gordon)
Rodeo Champion
Orphaned while still very young, Mark’s mother died trying to save him and his father from a pack of wolves. Mark grew bitter, cool under pressure. He learned to live in the streets and do odd jobs. This kind of life hardens his personality even more. Mark joined the rodeo where he learns to ride horses and use a whip. He found his greatest friend in Alpha- a white stallion. The two were inseparable. Mark won two Rodeo Championships in flying colors. One day, The Earth International Defense Force asked Mark to join them. When he refused, he was taken forcibly and for the first time, Mark and Alpha where separated.

Daijiro Gou (Big Bert Armstrong)
Defense Tactician
Once a playful child, Big Bert’s attitude suddenly changed when his father disappeared. Alarmed by this, Mrs. Armstrong sent him to live in a country where a Martial Arts Master taught him varied methods of fighting and meditation. Rejoining his brothers, Big Bert was already a master of different hand to hand fighting as well as other oriental martial arts. The Naginata (Fighting Staff) was his expertise. Together with Steve and Little Jon, Big Bert started training on Voltes V.

Hiyoshi Gou (Little Jon Armstrong)
Robotic Genius
Learning mechanics, robotics and electro-magnetism at a very young age, Little Jon Armstrong was considered a genius by university professors. He even created a funny little octopod robot called Tako Chan (Octo One) But to his big brothers Steve and Big Bert, Little Jon is always their little brother: A child who never felt the warmth and love of a real father. Little Jon also excels in swimming and deep diving. Because of his exceptional talents, Little Jon was asked to join in the Voltes Team as a technical “handy man” for Voltes V in field repairs.

Megumi Oka (Jamie Robinson)
Female Ninjitsu Expert
Her ancestors were powerful ninjas. Young, slim and beautiful, Jamie received special trainings since childhood. Before 13, Jamie already posses extra ordinary skills and lightning speed reflexes. She was reared to become a top class "Kunnoichi" (Ninja Girl) Jamie also learned the gentle arts from her oriental mother. From her, Jamie developed a calm yet alert disposition. Joining the Voltes Team, she was the voice of reason among the male Voltes Team members, especially whenever Steve and Mark was about to clash their differences. Her cool out look and uncanny skills qualify Jamie as the fifth and only female member of the team.

VOLTES V NO UTA

2005-07-07T20:21:00.000-07:00

Tatoe arashi ga hukou tomo

Tatoe oonami areru tomo

Kogidasou tatakai no umi he

Tobikomou tatakai no uzu he

Mitsumeau hitomi to hitomi

Nukumori wo shinjiau

Go nin no nakama
BORUTESU FAIBU

nisubete wo kakete

Yaruzo chikara no tsukiru made

Chikyuu no yoake hamou chikai

Tatoe ikazuchi hurou tomo

Tatoe daichi ga yureru tomo

Tobidasou tatakai no sora he

Mamorou yo tatakai no niwa wo
Nigiri au tagai no te to te

Magokoro wo shinjiau

Go nin no nakama
BORUTESU FAIBU

niinochi wo kakete

Yuku zo shouri wo tsukamu made

Uchuu no yoake hamou chikai

Tatoe kemono ga hoeru tomo

Tatoe yukute wo husagu tomo

Utaou yo tatakai no uta wo

Katarou yo tatakai no michi wo
Ashinami wo soroete yukou

Otagai wo shinjiau

Go nin no nakama
BORUTESU FAIBU ni

Azuketa inochi

Tobu ze uchuu no hate made mo

Minna no egao momou chikai

(English Translation)
Though the storm should blow
Though the wave should rage
Let's row out to the sea of battle
Let's jump into the maelstrom of battle
Gaze into each other's eyes
Believe in each other's warmth
The party of five

On Voltes Five,we stake everything
Let's do it till the last of strength
The earth's dawn is already near
Though thunder should strike
Though the earth should shake
Let's rush out into the sky of battle
Let's defend the garden of battle
Take hold of each other's hands
Believe in each other's sincerity
The party of five
On Voltes Five we stake our lives
Let's go till we seize victory
The universe' dawnis already near
Though the beasts should roar
And block up our way
Let's sing the song of battle
Let's tell about the path of battle
Keep along the same pace
Believe in each other
The party of five
On Voltes Five we trust our lives
Let's fly till the end of the universe
Everyone's smile is already near

Lyrics were provided, checked and translated into English by Yoshiaki KouInfo provided by Ferdinand Tan, Lemuell Llave and Jojo Palad
------------------------------------------Source: http://members.xoom.com/voltesv/index.html

Cheap shot and Praises....

2005-07-05T19:21:00.000-07:00

I was surfing the internet one day when I stumbled into two conflicting views regarding the Ultra Electro Magnetic Machine Voltes V.

One view came from a Voltron fan, the other came from an expert anime enthusiast.

The Voltron fan boasts of watching Voltes V and laugh at the Boazanian's supposed appearance and their harsh law about the horns and non-horned people.

Apparently, the owner of the article does not looked at the story's situation allegorically. Instead of pondering about similarities that happens on real life, (White Suppremists against black Americans, Nazis against Jews) she took the whole thing litteraly. She even stated that Voltes V series were made after Voltron series. This is not true since Voltes V's series had ended before Voltron was even aired at the midst of the 1980's.

I never thought Voltron fans can be so "Misinformed".

The following is copied from http://www.geocities.com/laurelbel/info/voltesv.html

"The Earth is in danger. Aliens from planet Boazan attempt to launch their
attack upon earth in order to enslave every human, because of their less noble
status, humans don't have horns on their heads. On Boazan, people who don't have
horns are treated as slaves while the horned ones rule. Lead by Haniel, Boazon's
king,(Note: Heinel or "Haineru" is not the King of Boazan, he is a disgraced prince who vollunteered to lead the "Boazanian Invassion Force" against Planet Earth to restore his honor. Boazan had an Imperial monarchy and not a kingdom. The ruler of Boazan is Emperor Zanbasil.)the Boanzans attack earth with their UFOs and battlebots. (Note: The battlebots she must be refering are called "Boazanian Beast Fighters".) Meanwhile, on a small island called Big Falcon Island, 5 teenagers trained to pilot 5 special jetplanes (Note: These are no ordinary "Special jet- planes," they are called "Earth Defense Machines." In the case of Voltes V, "VOLT MACHINE V") which can be combined into a robot fighter prepare to fight the aliens off. Kentaro GouFather of Kenichi, Daiziro, and Hiyoshi. He's originally from Boazan, and on earth he create Voltes V, Big Falcon and the North Pole
Laboratory.Mitsuyo GouKentaro's wife.Kenichi GouThe oldest among the three Gou
brothers. Expert in firearms; pilots the first jetplane, Volt Cruiser. Ippei
MineA cowboy; pilots the second jetplane, Volt Bomber.Daijiro GouKenichi's
brother. Expert in martial arts; pilots the third jetplane, Volt Panzer.Hiyoshi
GouKenichi's little brother. Has some talent in diving and underwater exploring;
pilots the fouth jetplane, Volt Frigate.
Megumi OkaDaugther of General Oka.
Being the only female member of The Voltes V team, she has ninja ability. She pilots
the fifth jet, Volt Lander. Megumi eventually finds a ring and puts it on. It
turns out that the ring was actually an enemy robot. It possessed Megumi's mind
and turned her evil. Professor HamaguchiProfessor Hamaguchi and Professor Gou
worked together designing the Voltes V robot. Later, Professor Hamaguchi is
killed when trying to save Voltes V, because the Boazans found their
weakness.General OkaMegumi's father. He was killed when trying to save
Megumi.Professor SakonjiHe took over Hamaguchi's place after his death. He
trains the Voltes V crew hard, and adds one more weapon on Voltes V. However the
weapon is a failure until a mysterious red eagle plane, piloted by General
Danbei, sends a full Voltes V blueprint. After some adjustment, the weapon is
ready and successful.

All in all, I think this series sounds the most silly out of the "Voltron Series". (Note:Voltes V was already there, long before Voltron came in to being.)The whole things with horns just makes me want to laugh. (Note: Try looking at Cheddar and the other "Space-Mouse" of Voltron. These Disney-wannabees does not only make me laugh, they make me PUKE!...And Voltron and the Voltron Force themselves look stupid excuse for heroes...They are Voltes V, Voltes team - Wanna bees!)This is a series I would like to see just to know what the hell
the writers were thinking ;D" (Note: Tadao Nagahama, the writer and creator of Voltes V is dead long before Americans starts to meddle with Golion and Dairruger XV to turn them into Voltrons!)

VOLTRON IS A CHEAP, PATHETIC AND INFERRIOR COPY CAT OF VOLTES V...PERIOD!

Because, Americans cannot create true poignant, emotional and sentient super robot shows, not like how the Japanese do it. They have to buy certain shows, alter the characters and steal their titles!

If not so, again I ask my pertinent question: If Voltron’s real name is GOLION (Lion Force) and DAIRRUGER XV (Vehicle Team) Then, where did Voltron got it’s name?...Was it from VOLTES V?

Now, lets go to the other view of Voltes V. A direct to the point view, from a guy named Skysenshi of "Otaku Fridge".

http://www.otakufridge.com/html_anime/anime_voltesv.shtml

(From: “Otaku Fridge” http://otakufridge.com/html_anime/anime_voltesv.shtml)

To born without horns in Boazania is to be born a slave, forever answerable to the wrath and cruelties of the esteemed aristocrats. To be a ruler in Boazania is to be the almighty power over all that he encompasses; to be the supreme decision-maker who is answerable only to himself. Not satisfied with his dominion over the Boazanian race, the current ruler aims at a higher ambition: to reign over the entire galaxy. When he sets his eyes on Earth and begins to lay seige on its majestic glory, he is in for a surprise as its inhabitants fight back with a powerful secret weapon: the super electromagnetic machine Voltes V.

Voltes V struck at the heart of the Philippines in the late 1970's, at a time when we were wallowing in hatred and self-disgust brought about by an oppressive administration. It's a powerful tale of political ambition, social injustice and de-humanization. Though Voltes V resembles an older anime called Combattler V in terms of robot looks and function, Voltes V boasts of a more mature plot, laden with history and hope for the future. It tells of how a young aristocrat fought for equality in a land filled with prejudice and high class snobbery. It also tells of a son's longing for a father that fate has kept away (as evident in the ending theme Chichi wo Motomete), another important symbolism that one can pay close observation to. Most importantly, it tells of a world's anguished cry for survival and the right to human dignity.
The anime was banned from Philippine Television by the late President Marcos because it was supposedly promoting violence and destruction. However, historians agreed that it wasn't really the violence that was causing the dictator's objection. It was more of the subliminal messages that Voltes V projected that worried the president. He wisely judged that children would grow up and realize that they were living in oppression, and that only time will tell if they would follow the footsteps of an anime character that led bloody revolution against the fictitious Boazanian aristocracy.
The five leading heroes that make up Voltes V are Kenichi Gou (pilot of Voltes' head), Ippei Mine (Voltes' arm), Daijirou Gou (Voltes' torso), Hiyoshi Gou (Voltes' leg), and Megumi Oka (Voltes' feet). There is still an argument going on of whether Megumi should be in love with Kenichi or Ippei -- I personally vote for Ippei -- but there isn't any clear indication that Megumi ends up with either of them. The missing love angle was more defined in the mecha series that followed Voltes V, in the form of Daimos.

This is the best review of Voltes V I've seen so far, he does not only seen the allegory of the story, he also do his history right. "A robot show aimed to the heart"...I wish him more power!

The most powerful super robot of them all!!!

2005-07-05T18:48:00.000-07:00

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voltes_V

Chodenji Machine Voltes-V is considered THE most popular super robot show in the Philippines. It was also surrounded by intrigues and controvercies, considering it's banning by the Marcos regime.

ULTRA ELECTRO MAGNETIC MACHINE VOLTES V
Saburo Yate and Tadao Nagahama, creators of classic Japanese Super robot T.V. series such as Combattler V and Daimos, created the super robot epic titled VOLTES V. A gem from the 70’s, the series tells about the heroic exploits of the young Earth defense agents called The Voltes Team and their struggle to protect the world against an evil alien invasion force from the supposed planet of Boazania. Armed with the Ultra Electro magnetic machine Voltes V, the series highlights human sentimentality: love for parents, respect for elders, teen age troubles, utmost dedication , team work and the notion that the defense for one’s home world is a noble and desirable act. The Voltes Team had their own poignant stories to tell, specially the three members named Kenichi Gou, (A.k.a - Steve Armstrong) Daijiro Gou, (A.k.a – Big Bert Armstrong) and Hiyoshi Gou, (A.k.a – Little Jon Armstrong) as well as the two other members namely Ippei Mine, ( A.k.a. – Mark Gordon) and Megumi Oka, (A.k.a. – Jamie Robinson) the only female member of the team. Even the enemy invaders, the Boazanians had their own story to tell, Prince Heinel, (A.k.a. Prince Zardoz) the commander of the Boazanian Imperial Forces, had his share of sad stories, plots and intrigues . Voltes V is an emotional series, were human sufferings are all shown. The only turn-off is that the characters are so emotional to the point of hysteria! The 40 episode series follows the adventures of Voltes V and the Voltes Team as they struggle painfully to guard the Earth and finally, liberate the people of the offending planet of Boazania from tyrrany. Voltes V was armed with varieties of missiles, beams and deadly projectiles. But the most potent of its weapons was the “Den- Ku- Ken” or Lightning sword. Critiques claimed that Voltes V’s design were similar to that of Combattler V. Since both seem to have analogous color schemes and both were “gattai” (Combining) type of super robots. There is also a website claiming that Voltes V is nothing but a carbon copy of Combattler V. This is not true, Voltes V may be an improvement of the Combattler V robot design and story line since Combattler V’s story line was more inclined to be humorous, where as Voltes V had mature and serious contents in its series.