IDW Publishing has been pushing the boundaries with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) franchise, launching several new series in a short span. In 2024, they relaunched the flagship TMNT comic with writer Jason Aaron at the helm, continued the sequel to the best-selling TMNT: The Last Ronin, and initiated a crossover with Naruto titled TMNT x Naruto. Moving into 2025, the main TMNT series introduces a new regular artist and a fresh status quo, with the four Turtles reuniting in New York City, albeit not on the best of terms.
During IGN Fan Fest 2025, we had the opportunity to delve into the future of these series with Jason Aaron and Caleb Goellner, the writer behind TMNT x Naruto. We explored how these narratives evolve, the overarching vision for the TMNT line, and the possibility of the Turtles reconciling.
The Mission Statement of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
IDW's ambitious approach to the TMNT franchise has been marked by the launch of several new series, including the highly successful new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1, which sold around 300,000 copies and was among the top-selling comics of 2024. Jason Aaron shared that his guiding vision 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 to revisit that original series, the original Mirage Studios book," Aaron explained. "Last year marked the 40th anniversary of that series, and that was my first encounter with the Turtles. Before the films or cartoons, it was that black and white Mirage Studios book. I wanted to recapture the grittiness, the griminess, and the dynamic action scenes of the Turtles battling ninjas in New York City alleyways."
Aaron's vision also involves pushing the characters forward, exploring their growth and the challenges they face as they navigate their individual paths before reuniting to confront new threats.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #11 - Exclusive Preview Gallery
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The success of TMNT #1 alongside other major comic launches indicates a strong demand for reboots and streamlined narratives in major franchises. Aaron expressed his excitement about being part of this trend, emphasizing his focus on creating stories that excite him and resonate with both long-time fans and newcomers.
A TMNT Family Reunion
Aaron's run on TMNT began with the Turtles scattered across the globe, each facing unique challenges. By the end of the first storyline, the brothers reunite in New York City, but their reunion is fraught with tension. Aaron finds joy in exploring their dynamics and the new challenges they face together, especially with the city now weaponized against them by a new villain from the Foot Clan.
With issue #6, Juan Ferreyra joins as the new regular artist, bringing a consistent visual style to the series. Aaron praises Ferreyra's work, noting his ability to capture the essence of the Turtles' adventures in New York City.
Merging the TMNT and Naruto Universes
The TMNT x Naruto crossover, crafted by Caleb Goellner and artist Hendry Prasetya, introduces a world where the Turtles and the Uzumaki Clan coexist. Goellner credits Prasetya for the Turtles' redesigns, which seamlessly integrate them into the Naruto universe.
"I couldn't be happier with the redesigns," Goellner said. "I only suggested they wear masks like in Naruto, and what they came back with was incredible. I hope they get made into toys."
The crossover also highlights the interactions between characters from both universes. Goellner enjoys seeing Kakashi's perspective, likening it to his own experience as a parent, and appreciates the dynamic between Raph and Sakura.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 - Exclusive Preview Gallery
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As the series progresses, Goellner teased a major TMNT villain's appearance, specifically requested by Naruto creator Masashi Kishimoto, promising exciting developments in the upcoming issues.
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. Additionally, IGN provided an exclusive preview of the final chapter of TMNT: The Last Ronin II - Re-Evolution.
As part of IGN Fan Fest 2025, we also got a glimpse of IDW's new Godzilla shared universe and an upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog storyline.
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