Watch Voltron: The Third Dimension

Voltron: The Third Dimension is a science fiction animated series that first premiered in 1998 and ended in 2000. The show is the third incarnation of the Voltron franchise, which originally started in the 1980s. Syndicated aired the series, which features Billy West as the voice of the protagonist, Lance.

The story takes place ten years after the original series, in which five teenagers were chosen to pilot robots that combined to create the robot warrior Voltron. The new series takes a darker tone, as the planet Arus faces new threats after years of peace following Voltron's victory over the evil King Zarkon. However, the evil that threatens the planet is not without a face - Prince Lotor of planet Doom, the son of the late King Zarkon, has gathered an army of evil robots and is set on conquering Arus and the universe.

The series follows the new team of pilots, composed of Keith, Lance, Pidge, Hunk, and Princess Allura, as they learn to work as a team to pilot the new version of Voltron, upgraded with new weapons and abilities that allow them to take on Prince Lotor's army. They face numerous battles against Zarkon's robots and their leader, Prince Lotor, as they defend Arus and stop Lotor's plans.

One significant change from the previous series is the animation style. Voltron: The Third Dimension uses 3D computer graphics instead of traditional hand-drawn animation. This choice makes the battles and transformations of Voltron much more dynamic and brings a new level of excitement to the show. The effects stand out, and it's remarkable how well the 3D art has held up when compared with other computer-generated television shows from the same time frame.

Another significant difference is the increased maturity of the storytelling. The violence is more graphic, and the storylines are more complex, adding an intensity not seen in the previous series. The characters have a depth more than simply being stereotypes, as they were in the original series. For example, Lance, voiced by Billy West, is no longer just the comic relief and now emerges as the show's central figure. His character drama and his need to prove himself in battle, amount to a robust inner journey for him throughout the series.

The series adds new villains, including the villainous witch Haggar, to the Voltron mythology. Haggar is a powerful sorceress that works alongside Prince Lotor to eradicate Voltron and take control of the universe. Lotor also has a new commanding officer of the fleet, Commander Cossack, who is a competent and intelligent adversary. It's refreshing to see the series add prominent new characters who keep the series fresh while holding on to the classic elements.

The show's music is also a highlight. The opening theme song, set to the 3D visuals of Voltron forming, is a remix of the original theme, which will be familiar to fans of the original series. The background score by John Petersen is instrumental in building the show's dramatic and thrilling moments.

Overall, Voltron: The Third Dimension is an exceptional continuation of the Voltron franchise. It's a darker and grittier interpretation that brings a surprising amount of depth and character growth for our heroes. The 3D-animation is a significant showpiece in the series, making it one of the best-animated American-made shows of the era. Fans of the previous series should have no problem transitioning into this one, and newcomers to the franchise will get to enjoy a remarkable animated adventure series.