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Shogun Warriors #1 (Marvel Comics, 1979)

Shogun Warriors #1 (February 1979) The first issue in the Shogun Warriors comic book series, published by Marvel Comics, features incredible futuristic robot vs. monster action inspired by the popular line of Shogun Warriors toys from Mattel. Meet the heroes of the Shogun Warriors and their mighty giant robot, Raydeen! This issue is a must-have for fans of 1970s robot toys and giant monster movies.

Shogun Warriors #1
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Shogun Warriors #1 Video Review by 80s Comics

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Shogun Warriors #1 Story Summary

It's STILL only 35 cents (in 1979!) Shogun Warriors issue #1 explodes with everything groovy about giant robot toys and mecha from the late 1970s. Do you like Transformers, Tranzor Z, Voltron, Go-Bots, Micronauts, and Mechagodzilla? Then pull up a chair and get ready to dive into the Shogun Warriors series, your new favorite comic book franchise.

As awesome as it is, sadly, the Shogun Warriors series only ran for 16 issues. Don't let that stop you from getting a complete collection, though, because Shogun Warriors is incredible, and largely forgotten today.

The first issue, titled "Raydeen!", drops readers into an epic battle between a giant robot and a terrible, building-sized monster named Rok-Korr. Halfway through the battle, the story cuts to a backstory to introduce the main human characters and plotline.

After a massive volcanic eruption, the Guardians of the Light in Shogun Sanctuary have proof that Maur-Kon and his dark agents have awakened. Using a space satellite (in space), they summon Earth's three mightiest human heroes and teleport them into their secret lair.

Meet Genji Odashu, a pilot. Ilongo Savage, a marine biologist. Richard Cason, a test driver. The confused humans are given a nonsensical explanation of why they've been teleported to a secret base to serve as instruments of the Eternal God. The Guardian's leader, the lab coat-wearing Dr. Tambura, gives them a brief lesson in the real history of Earth, which includes space aliens, UFOs, dinosaurs, and incomprehensible nonsense.

Though somewhat apprehensive, the humans agree to face the Second Coming of Evil in a giant Voltron-sized robot named Raydeen. The story then cuts back to the end of the battle, where the humans admit they have no idea what they're doing and retreat to regroup and get reinforcements...two more giant robots!

 

Shogun Warriors #1 Creative Team

  • Writer: Doug Moench
  • Artist: Herb Trimpe
  • Inker: Dan Green
  • Colorist: Jim Novak
  • Letters: Andy Yanchus
  • Editor: Al Milgrom
  • Editor-In-Chief: Jim Shooter

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Shogun Warriors #1 FAQ

What happens in Shogun Warriors #1?

In Shogun Warriors #1, giant robots suddenly appear on Earth as part of an ongoing battle between forces of good and evil tied to an ancient cosmic conflict. The story introduces the massive robot, Raydeen, piloted by human operators recruited by a mysterious organization known as the Followers of Light.

Who are the main characters in Shogun Warriors #1?

Shogun Warriors #1 focuses on the human pilots Richard Carson, Genji Odashu, and Ilongo Savage, who control the giant robots Raydeen, Dangard Ace, and Combatra. These characters are brought together by the Followers of Light to defend Earth, blending human drama with large-scale robot action.

Who are the villains in Shogun Warriors #1?

The primary antagonists in Shogun Warriors #1 are the Followers of Dark and their leader Maur-Kon, who represent a powerful opposing force seeking control over the Earth. Their conflict with the Followers of Light drives the central battle of the series.

Is Shogun Warriors #1 based on a toy line?

Yes, Shogun Warriors #1 is based on the popular Shogun Warriors toy line released by Mattel, which featured giant robot figures inspired by Japanese anime and tokusatsu series. Marvel Comics created the comic to promote the toys while building a new storyline around them.

Who created Shogun Warriors #1?

Shogun Warriors #1 was written by Doug Moench with artwork by Herb Trimpe, and it was published by Marvel Comics. The creators developed an original story to connect the different robot characters into a unified narrative.

When was Shogun Warriors #1 released?

Shogun Warriors #1 has a February 1979 cover date, with the series running from 1979 to 1980 for a total of 20 issues.

Is Shogun Warriors #1 part of the Marvel Universe?

Yes, Shogun Warriors #1 is loosely set within the Marvel Universe and even features characters like the Fantastic Four, although its continuity is largely self-contained.

Is Shogun Warriors #1 a good comic?

Shogun Warriors #1 is remembered for its unique mix of giant robot action and Marvel-style storytelling. It stands out as an early example of adapting Japanese mecha concepts for American audiences, combining spectacle with character-driven elements.

Do you need to read earlier issues before Shogun Warriors #1?

No, Shogun Warriors #1 is the first issue of the series and serves as the introduction to the characters, robots, and overall conflict, making it an ideal starting point for new readers.

What makes Shogun Warriors #1 different from other Marvel comics?

Shogun Warriors #1 is unique because it combines giant robot action with Marvel storytelling and is directly inspired by a toy line based on Japanese mecha properties. It blends science fiction, action, and licensed characters into a format that was relatively new for American comics at the time.

Where does Shogun Warriors #1 fit in the series?

Shogun Warriors #1 is the opening issue of Marvel’s Shogun Warriors series, introducing the central characters, robots, and conflict that drive the story across its 20-issue run.

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