10 most essential episodes of Voltron: Legendary Defender

“The Rise of Voltron” (Season 1, Episode 1)

No episode is more essential than the first episode of the series.

We kind of cheated with this one, since the 1-hour premiere consists of 3 combined episodes. Nevertheless, it’s a crucial mega-episode because it introduces the audience to the main characters, sets them off on a mysterious journey, presents what’s at stake, and sets the stage for what’s come. It’s the hook that pulls you in and leaves you wanting for more.

The premiere kicks off with an encounter of alien life and immediately lands one of the main characters, Shiro, in unknown territory. His introduction and subsequent capture is followed by the introduction of cadets Lance, Pidge, and Hunk. They witness a vessel crashing in the distance and go to investigate. This is when Keith enters the picture and demonstrates how he’s not someone who likes to joke around.

The characters eventually find the robotic Blue Lion, who accepts Lance as his Paladin. This sends them through a wormhole to the Castle of Lions, where they discover Princess Allura and her royal advisor, Coran, in deep stasis. From here, we learn about how the universe has been falling into the hands of Emperor Zarkon, the leader of the Galra Empire.

It’s an exciting new adventure that leads up to the first formation of Voltron in over 10,000 years. The best thing about the episode is how it shows 5 ordinary people can accomplish amazing and extraordinary tasks through the power of teamwork. Doing so earns them their first victory and seals their new roles as defenders of the universe.