31 Years Ago Today: Power Rangers Launched an Iconic Franchise

Few franchises have demonstrated the enduring appeal and timelessness of Power Rangers. It’s remarkable to think that the franchise began 31 years ago today, on August 28, 1993. That day marked the debut of Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, launching a powerhouse in Kids TV that expanded into toys, movies, games, collectibles, and comics. While the franchise eagerly awaits its next chapter, there’s plenty to celebrate in the interim.

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers introduced audiences to the original five Rangers: Jason (Red Ranger), Trini (Yellow Ranger), Billy (Blue Ranger), Zack (Black Ranger), and Kimberly (Pink Ranger). The team would later be joined by the iconic Green Ranger, Tommy. Over time, the series saw changes in both its cast and its roster of Rangers and Zords, eventually concluding its run on May 23, 1994.

The show was adapted from the Super Sentai series Kyoryu Sentai Zyuranger. Subsequent seasons of Power Rangers adapted other entries from the Super Sentai franchise. The latest installment, Cosmic Fury, concluded in 2023, capping off a 30-year run for the Dino Fury cast.

For streaming fans, several Power Rangers projects are available on Netflix. This includes the original Mighty Morphin Power Rangers series, both seasons of Power Rangers Dino Fury, and Power Rangers Cosmic Fury. Netflix also hosts the 2023 reunion special Power Rangers: Once & Always, featuring David Yost, Walter Emanuel Jones, Steve Cardenas, and Catherine Sutherland.

Other films from the franchise are spread across different services. The original Mighty Morphin Power Rangers film from 1995 can be found on Disney+, while the 2017 reboot film is available on Prime Video.

In the gaming world, Power Rangers fans have a variety of options. One of the most anticipated games, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita’s Rewind, is set for release later this year. This game brings a classic beat ’em up style to the Power Rangers universe and will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC. Additionally, the fighting game Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid is available for PS4, Xbox One, and Switch.

On mobile, Power Rangers Legacy Wars is a free-to-play fighting game available on iOS and Android, featuring a wide roster of Rangers and villains. For tabletop enthusiasts, the miniature skirmish game Power Rangers: Heroes of the Grid has numerous expansions. There’s also the Power Rangers Deck-Building Game and the Power Rangers Roleplaying Game by Renegade, which allow for a variety of gaming experiences.

Regarding comics, it’s an opportune time to dive in or catch up. BOOM! Studios recently previewed its upcoming Power Rangers Prime series, which will introduce new storylines and beloved characters like Lauren from Power Rangers Samurai. Fans can also find trades of Go Go Power Rangers, Power Rangers, and Power Rangers: The Return, the latter featuring the original team in a new adventure with numerous surprises.

For those eager for new content, Power Rangers Infinity offers a standalone adventure with a new team of Rangers, while Ranger Academy explores a school that trains future Rangers. Crossovers like Mighty Morphin Power Rangers/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles also provide additional excitement.

The franchise’s toy and collectible offerings remain robust. The Lightning Collection provides action figures, and a new toy line from Playmates is set to debut next year. Super 7 offers high-quality items such as the Lord Drakkon Ultimates figure, which includes accessories like a broken Saba and a damaged Red Ranger helmet. Other notable releases include Dragonzord, Lord Zedd, and core Rangers figures.

For higher-end collectibles, the Power Rangers One:12 Collective Deluxe Boxed Set features the original five Rangers with numerous accessories. Funko Pops remain a popular choice, with figures like the Green Ranger 30th Anniversary edition. Diamond Select offers a new Red Ranger Gallery Statue and a stunning 3D 1:2 Scale Bust of the White Ranger. Iron Studios provide a 1:10 scale statue of Zordon and additional Ranger statues.

Happy 31st Anniversary to Power Rangers! Here’s to many more years of morphin’ adventures.

Source: ComicBook.com, Particle News