Oh, what a morphenomenal time it is set to be. Power Rangers celebrates 30 years, bringing a new series in Cosmic Fury and what should be a truly nostalgic special in Once and Always. The latest Hasbro Pulse fanstream revealed more information about the two, as well as unveiling more Lightning Collection figures.
Before getting to the series, I do like the new figures of the Lightning Collection. Tommy Oliver and Mesogog join Kira in representing Dino Thunder, with both looking very awesomely recreated. The same can be said for Kendrix of Lost Galaxy and Ollie of Dino Fury.
The Tenga Warriors from Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers: The Movie are being released, with these bird-like foot soldiers featuring a lot of detail on them that recreates their feathers quite nicely. And as part of the 30th celebrations, new versions of Billy and Trini of the original Mighty Morphin’ series are arriving, coming with quite a few accessories to pose them in some cool ways.
For the series, I’ll start off with Cosmic Fury. Following on from the events of Dino Fury, the Rangers respond to a call from the Morphin’ Masters. Heading out to space, the Rangers get new suits and weapons to combat the threat they have been called on to face. The little behind-the-scenes video we got of the cast showing off their new suits shows a retro sci-fi vibe for them, which I’m really digging.
What it also revealed is that fully exclusive Power Rangers suits allows changes that would otherwise have been difficult. And one of those changes the production team seem to have instantly taken to, as Hunter Deno dons the red suit as the first full-time female Red Ranger. Exactly how that’s playing out in terms of team dynamics we will have to see, especially with Russel Curry sporting a white suit with a cape. We won’t be seeing it until the second half of the year, though that’s okay.
Okay, because Once and Always – the Mighty Morphin’ Reunion Special – is definitely looking special. Bringing back many of the cast members who had appeared in Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers throughout its three seasons, the special sees these Rangers morph into action once more to face a threat from their past. If that wasn’t nostalgia enough, David Yost and Walter Jones return to the franchise for the first time since they left it almost thirty years ago.
It’s not all about that nostalgia, however, as it seems there’s going to be some world building and connections forged with this special. Already announced is Charlie Kersh as the daughter of Trini, who most likely will become the Yellow Ranger of the team. Johnny Yong Bosch and Karan Ashley wear uniforms that tie them to S.P.A., with a logo design very similar to that of S.P.D.. And seen within the behind-the-scenes video for the special is a suited up Green Ranger. It seems unlikely that Jason David Frank (may he rest in peace) suited up as the legendary Ranger, so that is a surprise that will likely remain hidden until the special arrives on Netflix 19/April.
This, clearly, is just the start. Across the year there are sure to be more anniversary Lightning Collection additions, the trailers for both Once and Always and Cosmic Fury, and potentially an anniversary comic special or series. But please, Hasbro! You’ve had time to plan for this 30th anniversary. Is there any sort of a Power Rangers console game that will answer my dreams in production? This anniversary is already looking great, but a great game will elevate it to truly awesome.
Images Taken From:
Lightning Collection Dino Thunder Black | Hasbro Pulse
Lightning Collection Mighty Morphin Tenga Warriors | Hasbro Pulse
Lightning Collection Dino Thunder Mesogog | Hasbro Pulse
