COMIC REVIEW – Mighty Morphin Power Rangers / Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Issue 5

On Wednesday, June 17th, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers / Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Issue 5 will be released from Boom Studios. Below you will find a preview of the issue as well as the main cover and variants.

It’s the ultimate showdown between the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, up against the joint forces of Rita Repulsa and Shredder! Cowabunga!

Host Eric (@trekkieb47) had a chance to read the issue in advance and shares his review:

“MMPR / TMNT Issue 5 drops almost three months to the day of the previous issue. With everything happening in the world, comics are now more than ever an escape. The entire run of this series has been fun, full of energy and completely nostalgic. With new Megazord designs, Turtle Rangers and Ninja Rangers, this miniseries has felt like emptying a 90’s toybox and playing with the actions figures.

The art really shines in the issue, with a bright daytime setting in Central Park for the Megazord fight. It is a stark contrast to previous issues set at night and in the dark recesses of the Technodrome. This highlights the artwork of Simone di Meo, which we think is his best work to date for Power Rangers. Colorist Walter Baiamonte uses a very warm color scheme for most of the issue. The action pops on each panel.

Overall, this final issue is a great send off for both teams. The Turtles and Rangers work really well together, highlighting the lessons both properties teach: teamwork and friendship.

There is room for a sequel with something that happens in this issue that we won’t spoil. We hope that Ryan Parrott gets a chance to followup on this miniseries. You can tell he had a ton of fun writing it, ending on an upbeat moment for both teams. This is highly recommended!”

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COMIC REVIEW – Go Go Power Rangers 32

On June 10th, Boom Studios releases Go Go Power Rangers Issue 32.

THE ORIGIN OF THE OMEGA RANGERS CONCLUDES! Jason, Trini and Zack meet Kiya for the first time on Safehaven to begin their new roles as Omega Rangers! Meanwhile, what will it take for Aisha, Rocky and Adam to prove they’re ready to be the newest Power Rangers?

Host Eric (@trekkieb47) had a chance to read the issue in advance and shares his review:

“With this final issue, Go Go Power Rangers is over and concludes its part of Necessary Evil. With two weeks before Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers Issue 50, now would be a good time to read the arc in chronological order for the big finale. I know I’ll be rereading everything to prepare! 

Since its debut, Go Go Power Rangers has always complimented the main comic while showing a deeper side to the Ranger’s lives. Over the past year, the back and forth between both series has played nicely for the arc. Now, writers Ryan Parrott and Sina Grace are closing a chapter and its definitely bittersweet. Personally, I always liked when GGPR has included moments from the show. It not only informs where everything takes place on the timeline, but also gives you more context to the bigger picture. There are some lines and scenes from “The Power Transfer Part 2”, but more lines and context has been added to work with the Necessary Evil story line. 

I applaud both of the writers for treating the real world reason of the three original actors leaving the show with respect by making a great story out of it. The conflict between Jason and Tommy is well done… we’ve seen the aftereffects in MMPR, but Tommy’s harsh words in this issue resonate throughout the arc in Jason’s frustrations. The final pages are a great reflection of the challenges both teams will face in this arc and a nice sendoff of this comic. Highly recommended!”

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COMIC REVIEW – Go Go Power Rangers 31

On May 27th, Boom Studios releases Go Go Power Rangers Issue 31.

Zack, and Trini are leaving Earth to officially join THE OMEGA RANGERS, but it means their former team is now down three people, with Lord Zedd about to launch his ultimate weapon! Zordon and Alpha-5 search desperately for worthy successors, but will it be enough to stop the enemy?

Host Eric (@trekkieb47) had a chance to read the issue in advance and shares his review:

“It’s been a long couple of months since the last issue of a Power Rangers comic had been released. Go Go Power Rangers 31 is the penultimate issue of this series and one of the few remaining in the Necessary Evil storyline. After the ending of the last issue, this issue takes a different approach with the resolutions coming in the form of flashbacks. Trini and Zack catch up with Kim and Billy respectfully, while Jason talks with his Dad about his “scuba trip”. This is a perfect way to not only move the story forward, but you feel the passage of time from what’s going on in real life with the comic delays. I know it’s completely unintentional because these comics are written months in advance, but the timing really works for this issue. 

There are definitely a couple twists in this issue with some new surprises, which were unexpected. As solicits get more spoilery, it is nice to have something happen that keeps you guessing. Writers Ryan Parrott and Sina Grace continue to keep the dialogue snappy and there are some nice dialogue page transitions here. As always the connections between character continue to shine. I loved Billy’s choice of relaxation after battle and the return of Jason’s Dad in this issue.  The art by Francesco Mortarino continues to impress and I love the more “anime” feel to the characters. 

With only one issue of Go Go Power Rangers left, I hope that it is a satisfying conclusion for this series, despite being the next-to-last-issue in Necessary Evil.”

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COMIC PREVIEW – Mighty Morphin Power Rangers Issue 49

On Wednesday, March 25th, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers Issue 49 will be released from Boom Studios.

NECESSARY EVIL CONTINUES! The Power Rangers are outnumbered! Even with THE OMEGA RANGERS and the POWER RANGERS reunited again, the Anointed have them surrounded. Will the arrival of an old friend—and an older enemy—turn the tide in this battle?

Host Eric (@trekkieb47) had a chance to read the issue in advance and shares his review:

“This is it folks, the penultimate issue of Necessary Evil (for Mighty Morphin at least)! After this issue, all that remains is Go Go Power Rangers 31 (April 8th) and 32 (April 22nd) before MMPR Issue 50 (April 29th).

The ultimate showdown begins between Kiya with the Anointed and the Omega Rangers with the Power Rangers. I know this is a spoiler-free review, but I have to say that this issue includes the most epic spread I have seen in this entire run of comics. It will pump you up and make you ready for the fight. Old rivalries are flared up, continuing the stories from earlier in this run. And it all really feels worth the wait. Necessary Evil has been pretty ambitious in its storytelling. While Shattered Grid was the team up to end all teams ups, Necessary Evil is all about the consequences of resetting the universe and living with the results.

Issue 49 leaves readers with three separate cliffhangers that keep escalating until the final panel. It’s not a big, shocking reveal or a surprise return… it’s a panel that made me worried. Worried about some of the characters I’ve loved reading about throughout the run. If you can, definitely pick up this book and support your local comic shop during this time. Remember to geek responsibly and safely.”

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers #49
Publisher: BOOM! Studios
Writer: Ryan Parrott
Artist: Daniele di Nicuolo
Colorist: Walter Baiamonte, with Katia Ranalli
Letterer: Ed Dukeshire
Cover Artists:
Main Cover: Jamal Campbell
Foil Variant Cover: Goñi Montes
Incentive Cover: Kris Anka
Unlocked Story Variant: Dan Mora
Price: $3.99 Continue reading

COMIC PREVIEW – Mighty Morphin Power Rangers / Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Issue 4

On Wednesday, March 18th, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers / Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Issue 4 will be released from Boom Studios. Below you will find a preview of the issue as well as the main cover and variants.

It’s the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers as you’ve never seen them before vs Shredder! No, really. Just imagine the coolest thing we could do and, yeah, we’re doing it.

Host Eric (@trekkieb47) had a chance to read the issue in advance and shares his review:

“Turtle Rangers and Ninja Rangers… YES! It’s finally happening and it is what all of us have waited for. Well, everything I have waited for at least. The Ranger teens get a chance to take a more stealthy approach with Casey Jones to help rescue Tommy from another classic Turtles villain. The Turtles on the other foot, get to live out a typical full day in the life of the Power Rangers.

There were plenty of moments to love in this issue. A great speech is delivered early in the issue by Splinter that is definitely inspired by Zordon, but with the more fatherly approach Splinter typically takes with the Turtles. My only problem was the synopsis being a bit misleading, but I attribute that more to a marketing move than the writing.

The last issue comes out next month and issue four does a lot to set up a massive showdown finale. There is quite a bit to wrap up, but I’m confident that the landing will stick. Powerbunga!”

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COMIC PREVIEW – Go Go Power Rangers 30

On March 11th, Boom Studios releases Go Go Power Rangers Issue 30.

LORD ZEDD sets his eyes on something he is sure will defeat the Power Rangers, and unleashes his full force to obtain in. With Jason, Trini and Zack encountering a new threat of their own as OMEGA RANGERS, Tommy must lead Kimberly and Billy into battle at half-power with disastrous consequences.

Host Eric (@trekkieb47) had a chance to read the issue in advance and shares his review:

“It will be bittersweet when Go Go Power Rangers comes to a conclusion. For a standard sized comic, it feels like there is a lot of story packed into this issue. While Jason, Zack and Trini meet Kiya for the first time; Tommy, Kim and Billy are left to defend Promethea against Lord Zedd’s newest plan. The team is splintered and Kim’s concerns are valid.

What’s great about issue thirty is how much ties back to objects and stories seen throughout the entire run of the comics. This is very rewarding for longtime readers and it gives the story a really strong footing. I also enjoy seeing some Easter eggs from time to time. Look closely in this issue and you’ll see the crew from the anime series Cowboy Bebop.

Without giving anything away I will say that the ending to this issue surprised me to the point where I will have to rethink who or what will come back in the final pages of Necessary Evil.”

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COMIC PREVIEW – Mighty Morphin Power Rangers Issue 48

On Wednesday, February 26th, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers Issue 48 will be released from Boom Studios.

After the shocking reveal of the last issue, the Rangers are beset by enemies on all sides—even their own. Tensions mount between Tommy and Jason in the fallout over the Omega Rangers secret identities. Will the two teams be able to work together in time to defend against the next attack? Don’t miss the return of a fan favorite character!

Host Eric (@trekkieb47) had a chance to read the issue in advance and shares his review:

“Only a couple of months and a handful of issues remain before Necessary Evil ends. It’s no surprise by now who returns this issue, especially with the cover of this issue and the Ranger Slayer getting her own one shot in June. What is surprising is that this reveal isn’t even the biggest shock.

For readers who might have thought that Beyond the Grid was not what they wanted or liked, issue 48 starts to connect that narrative and universe with this one. There are revelations that will keep you thinking about the possibilities as you are reading.

There is a lot packed into the comic, but none of it feels bloated or pressed for space. There are two sets of character pairings that make you feel the emotional impact of tearing a team apart, and trying to live up to expectations. This is highly recommended reading, but I seem to say that for every issue. Guess I’m along for the ride!”

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers #48
Publisher: BOOM! Studios
Writer: Ryan Parrott
Artist: Daniele di Nicuolo
Colorist: Walter Baiamonte
Letterer: Ed Dukeshire
Cover Artists:
Main Cover: Jamal Campbell
Foil Variant Cover: Goñi Montes
Incentive Cover: Kris Anka
Unlocked Story Variant: Dan Mora
Price: $3.99 Continue reading

Ranger Command Power Hour Episode 154

Ranger Command Power Hour Episode 154

It’s time to Ranger Up with your hosts as they talk all things Power Rangers on the Four Eyed Radio Network with RANGER COMMAND POWER HOUR!

In this episode we continue our review of Boom! Studios Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers comics with guest co-hosts Chris (@TokuChris) of PwrRngr (@PwrRngrSite), Chris (@clong83) from Geek Each Week (@geekeachweek), Ro (@RoliverQueen_) from The Leg10n Of Boom (@Leg10nOfBoom)!

We review the first half of Necessary Evil with Go Go Power Rangers issues 21-25 and Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers issues 40-45!

We also discuss the latest news including the February 11th Hasbro Investor call and what it means for Power Rangers. Finally, we read your responses to our Ranger Nation Answers question where we asked what one event you’d want to see in the comics.

Go Go Beard Morphers er… Great Buddies!

Listen now: Ranger Command Power Hour Episode 154 – “Ranger Merch Review: Boom Studios Power Rangers Comics Part 8: Necessary Evil Part 1”

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Links mentioned in show:

COMIC PREVIEW – Go Go Power Rangers 29

On February 12th, Boom Studios releases Go Go Power Rangers Issue 29.

Tommy steps into his new role as leader of the Power Rangers, but not everyone is convinced he’ll be able to lead like Jason did. Meanwhile, Zack, Trini, and Jason are given their first mission as OMEGA RANGERS, and must trust that their friends will be able to handle all of Lord Zedd‘s threats without them. 

Host Eric (@trekkieb47) had a chance to read the issue in advance and shares his review:

“Necessary Evil continues as this comic nears its conclusion and catch up to MMPR issue 40. While we know where the story needs to go, that doesn’t mean there aren’t some surprises in this issue. Without giving too much away, Lord Zedd’s plan is unexpected and will give readers more to think about the role of certain elements only introduced in the comics. 

I was also pleasantly surprised that this issue revisited a personal plotline with one of the Rangers. It was stories like this that make Go Go a standout of the Power Rangers comic series, and one that I hope continues in the main comic after Necessary Evil. We don’t always need a big event to tell compelling stories.

After Necessary Evil ends, I look forward to reading the event in chronological order. Go Go has done a great job of filling in the missing pieces of the event while simultaneously introducing some surprises that keep us coming back. If there ever is a successor to this series, I can only hope it can come close to what Go Go Power Rangers has achieved. “

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COMIC PREVIEW – Go Go Power Rangers 28

On January 29th, Boom Studios releases Go Go Power Rangers Issue 28, the second of two GGPR issues coming out this month and the fourth week of six straight weeks of Power Rangers comics.

Before RITA REPULSA was the Power Ranger’s enemy she was imprisoned in a dumpster on the moon, serving time for her widespread reign of terror. Within the confines of her cell, Rita is forced to confront her sins, by experiencing the lives of those she has affected…

Host Eric (@trekkieb47) had a chance to read the issue in advance and shares his review:

A couple weeks ago I speculated that with the end of Necessary Evil, Go Go Power Rangers might end or take a new direction. This week’s news that the book is ending, gives this issue more significance.

In Go Go Power Rangers 28, we take a break from the main story to focus on Rita Repulsa and her minions. In issue 24 the comic explored Bulk and Skull’s characters in a similar fashion. In my opinion, this is what Go Go Power Ranger’s has done best. We get to explore the motivations of characters by taking a look into their past.

With this issue, we get a glimpse of Rita’s imprisonment inside the Space Dumpster for over 10,000 years. I won’t give anything away, but the story is based on a trope used many times in science fiction stories. That’s not to say this issue is lessened by that trope, because the implications of what Rita goes through in this issue and what she does when she is released are staggering. You will realize how deep her evil runs and how irredeemable she is.

With four issues left, why focus on Rita Repulsa now? She has not been a part of Necessary Evil. I think this sets up a reintroduction of her character after almost a year of absence. Could the solicitations referral of [SPOILER] be… the return of Rita?”

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