Voltron: Defender of the Universe is a 1984 animated series that follows a team of space explorers who defend the galaxy using the mighty robot Voltron. The series is split into two main groups: the Lion Force and the Vehicle Force. In the Lion Force storyline, five heroes—Keith, Lance, Pidge, Hunk, and Princess Allura—pilot five lion-shaped robots that combine to form Voltron, a powerful warrior. Together, they battle the evil forces of King Zarkon and his Robeasts, striving to protect the universe from his oppressive rule.

In the Vehicle Force storyline, a different group of explorers uses a set of mechanical vehicles that also combine to form Voltron. Led by Jeff, this team confronts Zarkon’s forces, utilizing their advanced vehicles to maintain peace and defend against his empire's attempts at conquest. The two teams work in parallel to stop the spread of evil throughout the galaxy, with Voltron acting as their ultimate weapon.

The overarching plot focuses on the struggle between the forces of good, represented by Voltron and the Galaxy Alliance, and the villainous Zarkon, who seeks to dominate the universe. The show features epic space battles, heroic teamwork, and the unification of the five lions or vehicles to form Voltron, symbolizing hope and resistance against tyranny.