Zoids Colossus Returns: Takara Tomy Unveils Massive New Ultrasaurus Model
Takara Tomy has unveiled the latest model for its high-end Zoids brand, the "ADVANCED Zi SERIES": the Ultrasaurus, one of the largest and most iconic units in the franchise. Following its debut at the Shizuoka Hobby Show, social media has been buzzing with a mix of surprise and pure joy from fans.
Two versions have been announced: the standard "AZ-17 Ultrasaurus" and the "AZ-17DX Ultrasaurus Moonbay Custom," which comes equipped with the massive Gravity Cannon. Pre-orders for the standard version are scheduled to begin in July 2026, while the Moonbay Custom—recreating its appearance from the anime—is slated for release in late February 2027.
The sheer scale of the model is what has captured the most attention. When equipped with the Gravity Cannon, the AZ-17DX boasts a massive profile: approximately 721mm (28.4 inches) in length, 379mm in height, and 392mm in width, making it one of the largest Zoids in history. Furthermore, it features an incredible mechanical gimmick where the entire sequence from loading a shell to firing is powered solely by interlocking gears, representing a pinnacle of modern toy engineering.
On social media, while fans have shared enthusiastic comments like "I’ve been waiting for this!" and "I love the Ultrasaurus!", the massive size has also sparked a serious debate over "display space." Comments such as "721mm is insane," "It won't even fit on a standard shelf," and "Where on earth am I supposed to put this?" have trended alongside the announcement. Price is another hot topic, with fans bracing themselves for a cost between 50,000 to 70,000 yen (approx. $320–$450), leading many to joke about needing to "consult their wallets" immediately.
This legendary Zoid, which captivated children from the Showa to the Heisei eras, is returning with state-of-the-art technology. As the pre-order date in 2026 approaches, fans will undoubtedly keep a close eye on further technical specs and gimmick reveals.
The context
Zoids is a long-running media franchise by Takara Tomy featuring giant robot animals. The Ultrasaurus, modeled after a brachiosaur, is famous as the ultimate "Ultra-Massive" Zoid. In the 1999 anime Zoids: Chaotic Century, the Ultrasaurus served as a mobile fortress and a turning point in the story, piloted by the character Moonbay. The "ADVANCED Zi SERIES" is a premium line designed for adult collectors, focusing on intricate motorization, anime-accurate proportions, and complex mechanical movements that go beyond the standard retail kits of the past.
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