A Brief History of the Shogun Warriors Phenomenon
Before the Varitank rolled onto the scene, the Shogun Warriors were already making waves. Originally based on popular Japanese super robot anime—Mazinger Z, Gaiking, Getter Robo, and others—the toys were introduced to Western audiences by Mattel in the late 1970s. For many kids, these were their first encounters with Japanese mecha culture. This was definitely one of my first exposures to it. This particular Varitank is the one that I had as a kid. Judging by the looks of it, you can imagine that it went on a lot of adventures.
I always thought this toy was awesome. Unfortunately, this one I got from a garage sale when I was a kid. So I never got to enjoy it in all of its glory. I didn’t get any of the missiles to launch, and it also already had some damage to it before me. The stories I created with it always involved it being damaged from a prior battle. The magic of a kid’s imagination can solve all problems.
Although, the real magic of this toy came from Popy, a division of Bandai, and their legendary Chogokin line. “Chogokin,” meaning “super alloy,” referred to the die‑cast metal construction that gave these toys their signature weight and durability. I honestly don’t think many of today’s toys would hold up as well. The line became a cornerstone of Japanese toy history, influencing everything from Transformers to modern collectible figures.
The Varitank PA‑64 is a proud member of that lineage.
The Varitank PA‑64: Small in Size, Big in Personality
While many Shogun Warriors were towering giants, the Varitank took a different approach. Compact, transformable, and packed with detail, it showcased the engineering creativity that Chogokin toys were known for.
What Makes the Varitank Special?
- Die‑cast metal construction That unmistakable Chogokin heft gives the Varitank a premium feel even decades later.
- Unique design and play features The Varitank’s futuristic tank‑meets‑robot aesthetic stands out from the more humanoid Shogun Warriors. Its transforming elements and mechanical charm make it a joy to display.
- True 1970s craftsmanship This was an era before mass‑market plastic dominated the toy world. The Varitank reflects a time when toy makers weren’t afraid to experiment with metal, gears, and bold design choices.
- A collectible with real nostalgia value For fans of vintage mecha, this piece isn’t just a toy—it’s a time capsule.
Why Collectors Still Chase the Varitank Today
The 1978 Varitank PA‑64 has become a sought‑after gem for several reasons:
- Rarity: Original Chogokin toys in good condition are increasingly hard to find, especially with intact parts and packaging.
- Cultural significance: It represents a pivotal moment when Japanese pop culture began influencing Western toy shelves.
- Display appeal: Its compact size, metallic shine, and retro styling make it a standout piece in any collection.
- Historical charm: It embodies the creativity and optimism of 1970s sci‑fi design.
For collectors who appreciate the roots of modern action figures, the Varitank is more than a collectible—it’s a piece of toy history.
A Must‑Have for Vintage Mecha Enthusiasts
Whether you’re a lifelong Shogun Warriors fan or a newcomer discovering the magic of Chogokin for the first time, the 1978 Shogun Warrior Varitank PA‑64 is a remarkable addition to any collection. It’s a reminder of a time when toys were built to last, imagination ruled the design process, and the world of giant robots was just beginning to capture hearts around the globe.
If you ever come across one of these vintage beauties, don’t hesitate. The Varitank isn’t just a collectible—it’s a celebration of an era.
