Saberlion

The Saberlion is a type of Zoid, a race of mechanical lifeforms from the fictional "Zoids" universe.Zoids
Zoid_name = Saberlion
ImageName =
Caption = "New Pacific Release" Saberlion
Model_number = RZ-062
Faction = Helic Republic
Zoid_type = Lion
Crew = 1
Weight = 14.5
Length = 8.5
Height = 6.0
Speed = 255 km/h
Weapons = High Friction Blade x3, High Friction Fang, High Friction Claw x4
Equipment = Radar Ear x2, Dual Sensor Eye x2, Rear Security Sensor, Smoke Discharger x2

Overview

The Saberlion is a lightweight Lion-type Zoid used by the Helic Republic.

Designed for urban warfare and guerrilla operations, the Saberlion is designed to hit and run rather than stand and fight. While lightly armoured, the Zoid is also very fast and agile, and a potent close-combat unit. Its blades, fangs, and claws are designed to vibrate at high speeds, improving their cutting power.

To aid it in its intended roles, the Saberlion is equipped with an array of assorted sensors that better enable it to locate its opponents in crowded combat environments (such as cities). The Zoid does have one weakness, however, in that it completely lacks ranged weapons. While not a problem in its normal environments, it can be a severe drawback if the Zoid is caught in the open.

Battle Story appearances

In early ZAC2102, the Neo-Zenebas Empire invaded the Helic Republic, reaching its capital. During the fighting, a squad of Saberlions was assigned to escort the Republic's president, Louise Camford, during the retreat from the Republic's capital. This force was pursued and attacked by Eisen Dragoon soldiers piloting Guntigers.

The plan appears to have failed; President Camford was declared missing soon afterwards. Camford’s son, Colonel Rob Hermann, was forced to take control of the collapsing Republic.

Media appearances

Zoids Saga

The Saberlion appears in "Zoids Saga II", and is the first Zoid made available to the player-character.

Fandom

After its release, the Saberlion was often mistakenly believed by Western fans to be a far larger Zoid, more akin to a Shield Liger in size. The mistake became especially prevalent in fan fiction and RPGs.

Models

New Japanese Release

*Assembly required. (Snap-together, no glue needed. Scissors or X-acto knife recommended for trimming off excess plastic bits.)
*The model's colours are moulded into the plastic, and it does not need any paint

The Saberlion comes on six frames, along with a label sheet. Two of these frames are shared with the Guntiger, while one is common to all small non-motorised Zoids. The Saberlion is moulded in grey-green and aquamarine, with orange translucent components and yellow caps.

The Saberlion is simple to construct, as the Zoid has no motor, and consequently no need for complicated leg/body assemblies. The lack of motor is compensated for by making the majority of the connections between components ball joints, resulting in a significant range of motion and allowing the Zoid to placed in numerous poses.

New Pacific Release

The Saberlion was also released in Australia and the Pacific Region, as part of TOMY's "New Pacific Release" range. No changes were made to the model; the only changes were to the box.

The Zoid was intended to be released as a part of the "New American Release", but the line was discontinued before the release occurred.