After the Tigers and Bombers drew in last year's Darwin match, the rivals again gave the Northern Territory fans a tense climax.
Essendon maintained a handy buffer for most of the game, but Emelia Yassir's clever snap just before three-quarter time to reduce the margin to just five points.
Richmond blew numerous attempts to hit the lead early in the last term, dominating possession and territory, but the Bombers simply converted better and won 6.7 (43) to 3.10 (28).
After the Tigers missed two gettable chances, Sophie Alexander and Georgia Gee sealed the deal for the Bombers with classy finishes in the final six minutes.
Gee had treatment on her ankle early in the game, but played through the pain to be a matchwinner.
Georgia Nanscawen (27 disposals) and Maddy Prespakis (24) were typically industrious in the midfield, going head-to-head with Richmond superstar Mon Conti (29) and former No.1 draft pick Ellie McKenzie (27).
"We came up to Darwin just for one job and that was to go home with the win," Prespakis told the Seven Network.
"It's more than just a game when you're playing in Darwin, it's for the people and the community.
"It is really hot and it tires you out really early so we've had to be smart over the last few days about how much time outside we've had.Â
"I'm sure there's a fair few tired girls."
Making the victory even more impressive is the Bombers did it without star forward Bonnie Toogood, who is serving a two-game suspension.
Richmond forward Paige Scott, who left Essendon in acrimonious circumstances last year, was the Tigers' biggest threat up front.
Scott booted Richmond's first goal, immediately grabbing their jumper in a pointed celebration against their former club.
The 21-year-old also played a key role in Yassir's major, powerfully shrugging off a tackle for a score involvement.
The Tigers will face surging Melbourne at Casey next Saturday, while Essendon host Geelong at Windy Hill on Sunday.
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