IDW's approach to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) franchise has been notably ambitious, especially in 2024. The year saw the relaunch of the flagship TMNT comic under the guidance of writer Jason Aaron, the sequel to the best-selling "TMNT: The Last Ronin," and an exciting crossover with Naruto titled "TMNT x Naruto." Moving into 2025, the main TMNT series welcomes a new regular artist and introduces a fresh status quo, where the four Turtles reunite, albeit not on the best of terms.
During IGN Fan Fest 2025, we had the opportunity to delve into discussions with Jason Aaron and Caleb Goellner, the writer behind "TMNT x Naruto." We explored the evolution of their stories, the overarching mission for the TMNT line, and the prospects of reconciliation among Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo.
The Mission Statement of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
IDW's recent surge in TMNT series launches, including the flagship monthly series, has been remarkable. The new "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1" became a standout hit, selling approximately 300,000 copies and ranking among the top-selling comics of 2024. Jason Aaron shared that his guiding principle for the series is rooted in the classic Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird TMNT comics from the Mirage days.
"For me, the guiding principle was looking back at that original series, the original Mirage Studios book," Aaron explained to IGN. "Last year marked the 40th anniversary of the series, which introduced the Turtles. My first experience with these characters was through that black and white Mirage Studios book, before the films or cartoons. I wanted to recapture the grittiness, the griminess, and those big, action-packed double-page spreads of the Turtles fighting ninjas in New York City alleyways."
Aaron added that the series aims to tell a new story while moving the characters forward, reflecting on their growth and the turning point they've reached. The Turtles are depicted as having grown up, going in different directions, and trying to find their way back to being the heroes they once were.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #11 - Exclusive Preview Gallery
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The success of "TMNT #1," alongside other major comic successes like Marvel's Ultimate Universe line, DC's Absolute line, and Skybound's Energon Universe, suggests a strong audience demand for reboots and streamlined major franchises. Aaron, reflecting on his role in these successes, noted that his focus remains on crafting exciting stories.
"I'm just trying to make up stories that get me excited," Aaron said. "When I got the call about doing Turtles, which was not a job I'd ever imagined would come my way, I realized I could do something cool. Working with an incredible array of artists over the first six issues, we created a book that not only excited me but resonated with fans new and old."
A TMNT Family Reunion
Aaron's run on TMNT begins with a unique status quo, with the Turtles scattered globally. Raph is imprisoned, Mike is a TV star in Japan, Leo is a brooding monk, and Don is in a particularly dire situation. By the end of the initial storyline, they reunite in New York City, though not necessarily happily.
"The first four issues were fun, showcasing each brother in different situations around the globe," Aaron shared. "But the real excitement comes when they're all together, seeing how they interact. At this stage, they're not thrilled to be reunited, and their relationships are strained. By issue #6, back in New York, the city has transformed, weaponized against them by a new Foot Clan villain, making the Turtles the most despised in the city. With such odds against them and their personal tensions, it's a challenge to see how they'll unite to win."
Starting with issue #6, Juan Ferreyra becomes the new regular artist, bringing a consistent visual style to the series. Aaron expressed his enthusiasm for working with Ferreyra, praising his ability to capture the essence of the Turtles' adventures in the urban landscape of Manhattan.
Merging the TMNT and Naruto Universes
Combining TMNT and Naruto in a crossover series is no small feat, but Caleb Goellner and artist Hendry Prasetya have successfully created a world where the Turtles and the Uzumaki Clan coexist. Goellner credits Prasetya for the innovative redesigns of the Turtles, fitting them seamlessly into the Naruto universe.
"I couldn't be happier with the redesigns," Goellner said. "My suggestions were minimal, but what they came back with was incredible. I hope these designs get turned into toys; they're that good."
In terms of character dynamics, Goellner aims to ensure all characters have their moments. He particularly enjoys seeing Kakashi interact with the group, reflecting his own experiences as a parent, and finds the interactions between Raph and Sakura engaging.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 - Exclusive Preview Gallery
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As the series progresses into "Big Apple Village," Goellner teased a major TMNT villain requested by Naruto creator Masashi Kishimoto, promising exciting developments for fans.
"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #7" was released on February 26, and "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3" is set to hit stores on March 26. Don't miss IGN's exclusive preview of the final chapter of "TMNT: The Last Ronin II - Re-Evolution."
Additionally, as part of IGN Fan Fest 2025, we provided an early look at IDW's new Godzilla shared universe and a sneak peek at an upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog storyline.
