In the 'ZOIDS 40TH ANNIVERSARY PROJECT,' a 40th-anniversary commemorative project for the popular "ZOIDS" toy series by Japanese toy company TAKARA TOMY, the 'AZ SERIES,' which recreates classic Zoids using modern cutting-edge technology, announced its latest product, "AZ-04 Shield Liger," scheduled for release in late June 2024.
The Shield Liger is a Zoid developed by the Helic Republic Army to counter the old-model Saber Tiger produced by the Zenebas Empire. Its beam cannons and missile pods are designed to be retractable to reduce air resistance, allowing it to match the Saber Tiger's high-speed running. The "Energy Shield" hidden within the mane armor around its head is its signature weapon, capable of defending against Saber Tiger attacks and giving the Shield Liger an advantage. This Zoid also served as the personal machine of protagonist Van Flyheight in the original "ZOIDS" anime, where the Energy Shield was even used as an active "Shield Attack" to successfully repel the Saber Tiger piloted by his rival, Raven.
The "AZ-04 Shield Liger" is based on the MPZ-01 version released in 2016, recreating the settings of Van's dedicated machine from the anime. It features redesigned left and right mane armor, leg armor, and tail beam cannon, along with intricately sculpted internal frame, various pipelines, and high-density details for its weaponry. The back beam cannon and the missile pods that deploy from both sides have movable mechanisms. The head cockpit can also open to reveal the internal seat, allowing for the placement of mini figures of the anime's protagonists, Van and Fiona. Additionally, it comes with the Organoid "Zeke," who accompanied Van and Fiona in the anime and initially revived this Shield Liger in the story.
Not only is its physique and design closer to that of an actual lion, but when it walks using its built-in motor power system, its gait is also more like that of a real feline, with all parts from head to tail articulating with the armor as it walks. Furthermore, the Zoid Core representing the head cockpit and the abdomen will light up when the power is turned on, providing a more lifelike performance.
Zoids AZ-04 Shield Liger
Reference Price: 11,000 JPY (tax included)
Estimated Release Date: 2024/06
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via： TAKARA TOMY