Battle of the Planets (1978) is the 4th Westernized (after AstroBoy, Speed Racer, and Starblazers [Space Cruiser Yamato]) adaptation of the 1972 Japanese animated television series known as Kagaku ninja tai Gatchaman. Of the 105 original Gatchaman episodes, 85 were used in the Battle of the Planets adaptation, produced by Sandy Frank Entertainment. The adaptation is generally faithful to the plot and character development of the original Gatchaman series, but significant additions and reductions were made in order to increase appeal to the North American juvenile television market of the late 1970s.

As of February 2007, Sandy Frank's 30-year license to Battle of the Planets is expired. It is not clear how this will affect the future of the series.

Zoltar and his evil minions constantly attempt to either destroy or conquer the planet Earth. His efforts in this regard are constantly battled by G-Force, a group of 5 teenagers with high-tech vehicles, weapons, and a thing for bird-like costumes. Written by Afterburner

The sinister Great Spirit and his second-in-command, Zoltar - rulers of the planet Spectra - have developed plans to conquer the Earth & enslave its people and resources. The only thing standing between them and their goal of Spectran galactic domination is G-Force - a group of 5 orphans enlisted in defence of the Intergalactic Federation. Under the supervision of Security Chief Anderson & robot coordinator 7-Zark-7, G-Force finds itself in confrontation after confrontation, most involving massive Spectran war machines built in the design of animals or birds, and equipped with lethal weaponry. Written by medic249a2

Evil aliens from the dying planet Spectra attempt to capture the Earth and its interstellar allies to plunder their natural resources. The Spectrans' ruthless leader, The Great Spirit, secretly controls his troops through his henchman, Zoltar. The Spirit will stop at nothing until the planets of the Federation, including Earth, belong to him. Who can stand in their way? Only "G-Force." A team of five teenaged orphans consisting of Mark, Jason, Princess, Keyop and Tiny. Each member of the team has incredible, cerebrionic-enhanced abilities. They have pledged their lives to stop The Spirit, Zoltar and their forces. "G-Force's" missions are coordinated from Center Neptune on Earth by their computerized assistant, 7-Zark-7. Written by Jason