The upcoming beat 'em up, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita's Rewind, is packed with references to the classic franchise, including last year's reunion special, Once and Always. Robo Rita, the main antagonist, returns from that special. This retro-style brawler, announced at Summer Games Fest 2024, features five-player co-op, enemies from the first three seasons, and even 3D rail-shooter segments. It's launching on PC and consoles later this year.

The past few years have seen a mixed bag for Power Rangers fans. Following Once and Always and Power Rangers: Cosmic Fury, the franchise went into a period of uncertainty. Once and Always saw the original team reunite to stop a robotic Rita Repulsa from altering the past. The special included numerous Easter eggs and emotional tributes, notably to Thuy Trang and Jason David Frank.

Robo Rita's role as the main villain in Rita's Rewind is a direct result of her time-travel attempt in Once and Always, providing a convenient in-universe connection across the franchise's timeline, as revealed by Digital Eclipse content editor Dan Amrich in an interview with Time Express.

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita’s Rewind – A Nostalgic Beatdown

Digital Eclipse pitched the game to Hasbro, who were keen to expand their iconic franchises. Inspiration for Rita's Rewind came from classic 2D brawlers popular during the original MMPR's peak, with plenty of Easter eggs for longtime fans.

Rita's Rewind is a loving tribute to the Power Rangers franchise, blending nostalgic gameplay with a plot connected to recent storylines through Robo Rita's return. While its release is slated for later this year, fans can currently enjoy a crossover with ARK: Survival Ascended.