IDW has been exceptionally ambitious with its approach to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) franchise, pushing boundaries with a series of high-profile launches in 2024. The year saw the relaunch of the flagship TMNT comic under writer Jason Aaron, the kickoff of the sequel to the best-selling TMNT: The Last Ronin, and the initiation of a ninja-heavy crossover in the form of TMNT x Naruto. As we move into 2025, the main TMNT series introduces a new regular artist and a fresh status quo. The four Turtles are back together, but their reunion is far from harmonious.
During IGN Fan Fest 2025, we had the opportunity to delve into these developments with Jason Aaron and TMNT x Naruto writer Caleb Goellner. Our conversation explored the evolution of their stories, the overarching mission for the TMNT line, and the potential for reconciliation among Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo.
The Mission Statement of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
IDW's rapid expansion of the TMNT universe has included the launch of several new series, with the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 becoming a standout hit, selling around 300,000 copies and ranking among the top-selling comics of 2024. We sought to understand the guiding vision behind this surge of creativity, and Aaron shared his insights, emphasizing a return to the roots of the TMNT.
"For me, on this book, the guiding principle was just looking back at that original series, the original Mirage Studios book," Aaron explained to IGN. "Last year marked the 40th anniversary of that series, which introduced the Turtles. My first encounter with these characters was through that black and white Mirage Studios book, before the films or cartoons. I wanted to recapture some of the grittiness and the action-packed scenes of those grimy turtles fighting ninjas in New York City alleyways."
Aaron further elaborated on his approach, aiming to blend the nostalgic essence of the original comics with a forward-moving narrative. "We're trying to tell a story that feels new and takes these characters forward after everything they've been through in the previous 150 issues of the IDW series. It's about seeing how they've grown and reached a turning point where they're heading in different directions, trying to figure out how to come back together and reclaim their role as heroes."
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #11 - Exclusive Preview Gallery
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The success of TMNT #1, alongside other major comic releases like Marvel's Ultimate Universe line, DC's Absolute line, and Skybound's Energon Universe, suggests a strong audience demand for reboots and streamlined narratives of major franchises. Aaron reflects on this trend, "It certainly seems like it after last year, and I'm very happy to have been a part of a couple of those. My focus remains on creating stories that excite me, and the Turtles project was an unexpected but thrilling opportunity to do something cool."
Aaron's excitement for the project was bolstered by the collaboration with a talented roster of artists over the first six issues. "As someone who grew up a Turtles fan and loves good comic book stories, this is a story for both long-time fans and newcomers alike. The excitement we felt has clearly resonated with readers."
A TMNT Family Reunion
Aaron's TMNT run began with a unique status quo, with the Turtles scattered across the globe. By the end of the first storyline, they reunite in New York City, though not without tension. "Those first four issues were really fun to write, exploring each brother's situation worldwide," Aaron shared. "But the real excitement comes when they're all together, navigating their complex dynamics."
The return to New York City in issue #6 marks a significant shift, with Juan Ferreyra taking over as the regular artist. "Having Juan come on board made perfect sense as the main plot picks up," Aaron noted. "His work on this series has been phenomenal, truly capturing the essence of the Turtles' adventures in Manhattan."
Merging the TMNT and Naruto Universes
Combining TMNT with Naruto presents a unique challenge, which Caleb Goellner and artist Hendry Prasetya have adeptly tackled in their crossover series. The series introduces a world where the Turtles and the Uzumaki Clan coexist, with Goellner praising Prasetya's redesigns. "I couldn't be happier with the Turtles' redesigns. Hendry's work is unreal, and I hope they get turned into toys."
The crossover's appeal lies in the character interactions, with Goellner enjoying the dynamics, especially Kakashi's role. "As a dad, Kakashi is my viewpoint character into the Naruto world. I love seeing how he manages the young ninja, much like Splinter does with the Turtles."
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 - Exclusive Preview Gallery
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Goellner also teased upcoming developments as the two clans venture into Big Apple Village, highlighting a major TMNT villain requested by Naruto creator Masashi Kishimoto. "He had one request for this crossover, and I think fans will be thrilled with the outcome."
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #7 hit stores on February 26, while Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 is set for release on March 26. Don't miss IGN's exclusive preview of the final chapter of TMNT: The Last Ronin II - Re-Evolution.
As part of IGN Fan Fest 2025, we also provided an early look at IDW's new Godzilla shared universe and a sneak peek of an upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog storyline.
