Chogokin (超合金, Chōgōkin, meaning "Super Alloy") is a portmanteau of "super" (超, chō) and "alloy" (合金, gōkin), primarily used in Japanese popular culture, specifically in anime and toy lines, to denote a fictional, incredibly strong and durable metallic alloy.
The term was popularized by the 1972 anime series Mazinger Z, where Chogokin Z was the name of the virtually indestructible metal used to construct the titular giant robot. The concept of Chogokin quickly became synonymous with invincibility and advanced technology in the realm of giant robots and science fiction.
Following the success of Mazinger Z, Bandai, a Japanese toy company, capitalized on the term by creating the "Chogokin" line of die-cast metal toys. These toys, often based on robots and vehicles from popular anime and manga, are known for their weight, durability, and detailed designs. The Chogokin line became incredibly popular and remains a highly sought-after collector's item, spawning various sub-lines and spin-offs over the decades.
While originally referring to a specific fictional metal and then a specific toy line, "Chogokin" is now often used more broadly to describe any fictional super-strong metal in Japanese science fiction, or to refer to die-cast metal toys, particularly those resembling the classic Bandai Chogokin figures. The term represents a powerful and enduring symbol of strength, technological advancement, and the enduring appeal of giant robots in Japanese popular culture.