A Special Thanks To Boom! Studios and NetGalley for the ARC to review.
One of Saban’s old attempts to Americanize Toei’s Tokusatsu IPs has returned—it still feels like a nostalgia cash grab in many ways. But VR Troopers’ new BOOM! Studios limited series (spinning out of Power Rangers Prime) at least brings some welcome attention back to the Metal Heroes footage it was built on, despite the heavy Americanization.
As elite defenders for the Eltarian empire, the VR Troopers are Earth’s greatest human heroes. But that’s all before Trooper Leader Ryan Steele encounters a rogue enemy unlike anything they’ve previously faced. Ryan and fellow Troopers Kaitlin Star and J.B. Reese begin unraveling dangerous secrets tied to their home’s new leadership…and Ryan’s own family. This volume collects Issues 1-6, consisting of the creative team of Marighread Scott (Guardians of the Galaxy, Transformers: Robots in Disguise, Sea Serpent’s Heir), Artist Sebastián Píriz (Speed Racer: Tales From the Road, Exorcists Never Die), and JP Jordan (Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, Ancient Illumination, E.V.E. of Insurrection).
For those unfamiliar with the series, VR Troopers was Saban Entertainment’s attempt to capitalize on the virtual reality hype and the massive success of Mighty Morphin Power Rangers. They blended original footage with stock action from three Toei Metal Heroes shows: Choujinki Metalder, Jikuu Senshi Spielban, and Space Sheriff Shaider. In BOOM! Studios’ new take— now fully part of the shared continuity via Power Rangers Prime—Angel Grove is reimagined as an Eltarian colony on Earth, with the VR Troopers serving as the elite operatives of the Earth Security Taskforce. Writer Mairghread Scott delivers a story that captures a fun, nostalgic charm many remember from the ’90s show while giving it a more grounded, serious edge and deeper mystery. This feels like what VR Troopers could have been if given right creative team. Just a heads-up: This series spins directly out of Power Rangers Prime, so you’ll get the most out of it by reading that first.
For the artwork, Sebastián Píriz delivers excellent detail work, especially on the Troopers’ armor. Ryan’s suit, for instance, clearly shows the intricate circuitry powering it, beautifully honoring the original vision from Saburō Yatsude while updating the designs with a sleek, futuristic edge. The creature designs retain that classic Tokusatsu charm—somewhat dated in concept, yet still evoking the sense of epic sci-fi battles against alien threats that defined the genre. Píriz also excels in the action sequences and brings a more mystical flair to the transformation moments. On the story side, the miniseries heavily centers on Ryan Steele’s personal stakes and psychological journey, giving him significantly more depth and development than his teammates in this volume.
This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and make a purchase, we’ll receive a percentage of the sale. Whatever purchase through the affiliate links helps the site.
Finally, colorist JP Jordan and letterer Taylor Esposito add tremendous charm and impact. Jordan’s color palette shifts effectively to match the mood—vibrant and energetic during thrilling fights, or more subdued and emotional during quieter character beats. Esposito’s bold lettering shines in iconic declarations like “TROOPER TRANSFORM!” or the classic “WE ARE VR!” after the Trooper Tap, making those heroic moments pop and feel larger-than-life.
VR TROOPERS Vol. One goes on sale on May 26th, 2026 at your local comic store and e-retailer. You can order your copy at the links below. For more reviews, click here to read my previous reviews. Also, if you want to check out the original VR TROOPERS Television Series, its available to view on Tubi.
Final Grade:
Thanks for reading! If you have any suggestions, news tips, or questions, email them to: webmaster@bigrednerd.com.
Follow Me on Social Media!
Red's Nerd Den 