The upcoming beat 'em up, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita's Rewind, is packed with nods to the classic franchise, including last year's reunion special, Once and Always. The game features Robo Rita as its primary antagonist. Announced at Summer Games Fest 2024, this retro-style brawler lets players team up with the original five Power Rangers in five-player co-op. Expect hordes of enemies from the first three seasons, and even 3D rail-shooter sections! Launching on PC and consoles later this year.
The past few years have been a whirlwind for Power Rangers fans. Following Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Once and Always and Power Rangers: Cosmic Fury, the show's future remains uncertain. Once and Always saw the original team reunite to thwart a robotic Rita Repulsa from altering the past. The special cleverly incorporated Easter eggs and emotional moments, culminating in a tribute to Thuy Trang and Jason David Frank.
Robo Rita, the mechanical sorceress from the Netflix special Once and Always, returns as the main villain in Rita's Rewind. Digital Eclipse's Dan Amrich explained to Time Express that Once and Always' depiction of Robo Rita attempting to erase the Power Rangers from existence provided a perfect in-universe link to connect various franchise elements.
Facing Robo Rita in Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita's Rewind
Amrich also shared how Digital Eclipse pitched the game to Hasbro, who were keen to expand their iconic franchises. Inspiration was drawn from classic 2D brawlers popular during the original MMPR's peak, ensuring plenty of Easter eggs for longtime fans.
Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita's Rewind promises to be a loving tribute, from its gameplay echoing older titles to its storyline incorporating recent lore by bringing back Robo Rita. While the game's launch is slated for later this year, fans can currently enjoy a crossover with ARK: Survival Ascended.