Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary blog to the ODPH Podcast. On this edition, we’re checking out a special event in the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers Universe from BOOM! Studios. Power Rangers Universe #1 by by Nicole Andelfinger, Simone Ragazzoni, Mattia Iacono & Ed Dukeshire takes a deep dive into the mystery surrounding a character MMPR fans are very excited to hear about: the Phantom Ranger! This character has been around for 24 years (?!) between TV & comics. That said, there are a lot of questions fans are waiting to be answered. Let’s see how this issue kicks off such a huge moment in MMPR history, shall we?

POWER RANGERS UNIVERSE #1 - In Stores December 29th
Creative: Nicole Andelfinger, Simone Ragazzoni, Mattia Iacono & Ed Dukeshire (Cover: Dan Mora)
Credit: BOOM! Studios

*** POTENTIAL SPOILER WARNING ***

Years ago in the A47 Galaxy & Planet 0117., there was an attempt to tap into the Morphin Grid. Once inside, an explorer known as the Morphinaut found something else waiting inside & immediately cut off the gateway. His disappearance has been researched for years. Readers are fast-forwarded 584 years to where the research of that day still has people investigating what’s happened.

With an evacuation happening like some of the other Masterforges, a group of young people are doing their own side mission into events as well. Phiro, Rhian, Telosi, & Aleia join up with Orinsonth (aka the Squadron Rangers) set forth to figure out the reasons for evacuations o their home. However, once they open that door of mysteries, it’s apparent closing it won’t be easy. With a reemergence of the Morphinaut comes a threat no one was expecting.

There is definitely a LOT happening within these pages. Andelfinger does a solid job with pacing the time jumps throughout this issue. New readers of the MMPR universe might have a small challenge at first catching up on who is who, but mid-way through, it becomes very clear what’s going on & where the story is heading. Longtime Power Rangers fans will absolutely savor what is going on within these pages. Great closing sequence to set up the stage for Issue #2.

Ragazzoni complements the story extremely well. It gives the story a unique feel that juggles detailed backgrounds with heavier moments. The final moments of MasterForge Namize brings that to the forefront. The hacked footage captures the dramatic moments with the final panel of the groups’ facial reactions driving home the point of how serious the threat is without giving away everything. Even the re-appearance of the Morphinaut elevates the action going on. There’s lots to enjoy here.

Power Rangers Universe #1 doesn’t disappoint for the Power Rangers fanbase. The creative team sets up a very intriguing arc that will break down one of the most mysterious characters of this fandom. Longtime readers & ones just jumping into this fandom should expect big things from this book after issue #1. Make sure to check it out at your LCS this week!

Let me know what you thought of Power Rangers Universe #1 on Twitter. As always, Thanks for reading.

POWER RANGERS UNIVERSE #1 (BOOM! STUDIOS)

Ken M