Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita\'s Rewind Has Connection to \'Once and Always\' Special

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita's Rewind, a nostalgic beat 'em up, is set to unleash a wave of classic franchise references, including a prominent nod to last year's "Once and Always" reunion special. The game, announced at Summer Games Fest 2024, features Robo Rita as its primary antagonist, offering five-player co-op action and a plethora of enemies from the first three Power Rangers seasons. Prepare for thrilling 3D rail-shooter segments when the game launches on PC and consoles later this year.

The Power Rangers franchise has experienced a period of flux, with the show's future uncertain following "Once and Always" and "Power Rangers: Cosmic Fury." "Once and Always" saw the original Mighty Morphin Power Rangers team reunite to thwart Robo Rita's attempt to alter history. The special, laden with Easter eggs and heartfelt tributes (including a moving dedication to Thuy Trang and Jason David Frank), resonated deeply with longtime fans.

Robo Rita's return as the main villain in "Rita's Rewind" is directly linked to her time-traveling antics in "Once and Always," as confirmed by Digital Eclipse content editor Dan Amrich. This provided a convenient narrative bridge to incorporate elements from across the franchise's rich history.

Robo Rita Returns in Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita's Rewind

Amrich detailed how Digital Eclipse pitched the concept to Hasbro, capitalizing on the company's interest in expanding its flagship franchises. Inspiration was drawn from the beloved 2D brawlers popular during the original MMPR's peak, ensuring a generous helping of Easter eggs for dedicated fans.

"Rita's Rewind" promises a heartfelt tribute to the Power Rangers legacy, echoing past games' gameplay while incorporating recent lore through Robo Rita's return. While the game's release is slated for later this year, fans can currently experience a Power Rangers crossover in ARK: Survival Ascended.