BOOM! Studios; $7.99

It’s morphin time, times six! Mighty Morphin Power Rangers 2016 Annual #1 tells six very different stories in the world of the Rangers. It starts with a week in the very busy life of Jason Scott, then see Bulk and Skull – yes Bulk and Skull – as Power Rangers! This is followed by an attack in the park where Trini must save the day, then a story about Goldar before he attacked Earth, a putty attack, and ending with what makes a Ranger.

Stories in the annual were written by Kyle Higgins, Trey Moore, Ross Thibodeaux, James Kochalka, Marguerite Bennett, and Jorge Corona. Art and colors were provided by Rod Reis, Terry Moore, Hi-Fi, Rob Guillory, Taylor Wells, Kochalka, Huang Danlan, Corona, and Gabriel Cassata.

Each story is isolated in its own time, tone, and style. They were mostly good short stories, with three particular standouts. The story about Jason flew by, much like his week, but it gives the reader an insight into the dedication of the Power Rangers. Goldar’s story was surprisingly good, giving background of just how ruthless and monstrous he really is. The final story, though somewhat sparse on content, was a nice way to wrap up the Annual as a love letter to the heroes. While not as good as the previous three, Bulk and Skull as Power Rangers stood out for its comedic elements. You could practically hear their theme music playing.

Collectively the Annual was pretty good. It didn’t have the depth of the regular series, however the short stories provided some variety by featuring several characters in their own adventures.

-Amanda Sheriff