The Machine Empire has overthrown Lord Zedd and his cronies in their attack on Earth. In order to compete against this new threat, Zordon decides to use the Zeo Crystal as the source of the new Power Rangers Zeo. However, with only five sub-crystals, one of them must step down from fighting action.
Tropes:
- Call-Back: Billy's decision to step down from his role as the Blue Ranger ties into his arc and Character Development from the previous season via his assistance with the Alien Rangers, a development he admits to the rest of the team during his speech.
- Cliffhanger Copout: Alpha's solemn final line at the end of the previous episode suggests that something terrible happened to Zordon in the Command Center's implosion. Here, he cheerfully reveals that Zordon is perfectly fine.
- Continuity Nod: The original suits are placed in a gallery along the back wall of the Power Chamber as a tribute to the team and gallery representing their history, even with the camera panning past all of them after the team gets their new gear.
- Eviler than Thou: The Rangers acknowledge the Machine Empire must be trouble if Zedd and Rita opted to flee instead of fight.
- Foreshadowing: This is the first episode to mention a "United Alliance of Evil" that Rita and Zedd, among others, belong to. As seen in later episodes and seasons, their role will become more prominent.
- He's Back!: After being regressed to children, losing their powers, having to rely on the Alien Rangers, and nearly losing everything, the teens are back in action to defend Earth against a new threat.Tommy: We're back, guys!
- Humiliation Conga: To add insult to injury of being driven away by the Machine Empire just after he defeated the Mighty Morphin' Rangers, Zedd is forced to go live with his father-in-law Master Vile. Needless to say, he's not happy about it.
- Instant Expert: Despite having been a Ranger for all of five minutes, Tanya has no problem keeping up with the rest of the team.
- Nothing Is the Same Anymore: While the general approach will be the same, the Rangers gain completely new suits (most of which are changed colors), original member Billy becomes Mission Control, the Power Chamber replaces the old Command Center set, and new villains chase out the old ones.Zordon: As Power Rangers, you have served your planet well, but the Power Rangers as you have known them are gone forever. In their place has emerged a new and more advanced fighting force. You have now become the Power Rangers: Zeo, the next level in the fight against evil."
- Passing the Torch: Billy passes his chance to become a Zeo Ranger in favour of allowing newcomer Tanya the opportunity, reasoning that he's better suited helping out in the Command Centre.
- Pet the Dog: After Rocky becomes the new Blue Ranger, Alpha pats a disappointed Billy on the shoulder.
- Put on a Bus:
- Rita, Zedd, and their cronies flee the Moon Palace when the Machine Empire arrives. Since they're running to Master Vile's, this counts as Put on a Bus to Hell for Zedd. We also wouldn't see Serpentera again for another six years.
- It's mentioned at the end of the episode that Ninjor is back in his temple. And he has yet to appear again since.
- So Proud of You: Zordon to the Rangers after they claim their new powers.
- Villain: Exit, Stage Left: Once it becomes clear that the Moon Palace is being encroached by the attacking forces of the Machine Empire, Zedd and Rita beat a hasty retreat on Serpentera.
- We Will Meet Again: Forced to flee, Zedd vows to return to Earth one day and settle up with all of his enemies.
