Shogun Warriors Raydeen (1977)

Shogun Warriors Raydeen (Brave Raideen / Reideen) is one of the most iconic figures from Mattel's original 1977 Shogun Warriors lineup, admired for its Egyptian-inspired hawk head design, Art Deco styling, and unique weapon features. Based on the Japanese super robot Brave Raideen, Raydeen features both a chest-firing Delta Wing bird-shaped missile and a launching fist, making it one of the most desirable vintage Shogun Warriors figures.

Like the other early Shogun Warriors releases, Mattel Raydeen underwent several production changes. Collectors typically identify three major U.S. versions, plus a possible imported bow-fist variation.

Mattel Shogun Warriors Raydeen Release Variations

First U.S. Release (1977):

• Features a very soft vinyl head that can stretch or deform over time.
• Wheel trucks are molded directly into the feet instead of being attached separately.
• Includes a soft, blown-plastic Delta Wing missile that is not compatible with later hard-plastic versions.
• Shield fist is assembled with three screws.
• Uses the original, more detailed production tooling.
• Some imported versions may feature the Japanese Popy Brave Raideen bow-style fist, although standard boxed Mattel examples typically include the Iron Cutter-style firing fist.

Second U.S. Release:

• Updated with a harder vinyl head and a less pointed head sculpt.
• Wheel trucks are changed to separate pieces secured with screws.
• Delta Wing missile changes to a harder molded plastic version.
• Shield fist construction changes to four screws.
• Figure becomes approximately ½ inch taller.
• Back panel design changes from straight sides to a rounded design with side hemispheres.

Third U.S. Release:

• Further simplified for production savings.
• Removes the red plastic shoulder epaulets found on earlier versions.
• Rib/chest detailing is reduced, requiring fewer decals.
• Packaging artwork changes to show the simplified figure, including updated fist-shooting images and side panel graphics.

Japanese Popy Raydeen Variation

The original Japanese release by Popy differs from the Mattel version, most notably with its bow-style shooting fist rather than the Iron Cutter-style fist commonly found on U.S. releases. Some imported examples may have entered U.S. markets through specialty retailers and Asian markets.

With its distinctive hawk-inspired design, chest-launching Delta Wing missile, firing fist, and multiple production variations, Mattel Shogun Warriors Raydeen remains one of the most collectible vintage giant robot figures. Early releases with original soft missiles, complete accessories, and intact head sculpts are especially valued by Shogun Warriors, Jumbo Machinder, and vintage robot collectors.

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