IDW has been pushing the boundaries with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise, launching several exciting projects in 2024, including a relaunch of the flagship TMNT comic led by writer Jason Aaron, a sequel to the highly popular TMNT: The Last Ronin, and a thrilling crossover with Naruto titled TMNT x Naruto. As we move into 2025, the main TMNT series introduces a new regular artist and a fresh status quo. The iconic quartet of Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo are reunited, yet tensions simmer among them.
During IGN Fan Fest 2025, we had the privilege of discussing the future of these series with Jason Aaron and TMNT x Naruto writer Caleb Goellner. Our conversation delved into the growth of these stories, the overarching mission for the TMNT line, and the prospects of the Turtles reconciling their differences.
The Mission Statement of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
IDW's recent flurry of TMNT releases includes the flagship monthly series, with the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 selling an impressive 300,000 copies and ranking among the top-selling comics of 2024. We asked Aaron about the guiding vision behind the TMNT line, and he emphasized a return to the roots of the classic Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird TMNT comics from the Mirage days.
"For me, on this book, the guiding principle was just looking back at that original series, the original Mirage Studios book," Aaron told IGN. "Last year marked the 40th anniversary of that series, which introduced the Turtles to the world. That was my first encounter with these characters, before any films or cartoons. It was that original black and white Mirage Studios book. I aimed to recapture some of its grittiness and the dynamic action scenes of the Turtles battling ninjas in New York City's alleyways."
Aaron elaborated on his approach, "We wanted to maintain that spirit while also moving the characters forward. After everything they've experienced in the previous 150 issues of the IDW series, they've grown and are at a turning point, heading in different directions. The challenge is to see how they can reunite and reclaim their role as the heroes they once were."
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #11 - Exclusive Preview Gallery
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The success of TMNT #1 aligns with other major comic hits like Marvel’s Ultimate Universe line, DC’s Absolute line, and Skybound’s Energon Universe, indicating a strong audience demand for reboots and streamlined narratives of major franchises. Aaron reflected on this trend, "After last year, it certainly seems like there's a demand for these kinds of books. I'm thrilled to be part of it, even after 20 years in the industry and writing for various companies. My focus remains on crafting stories that excite me, and the Turtles project was an unexpected but welcome opportunity."
Aaron praised the collaborative effort with a variety of artists over the first six issues, "Working with such a talented group of artists made the book even more exciting. As a lifelong Turtles fan and a lover of comic book storytelling, this is a story that appeals to both long-time fans and newcomers alike."
A TMNT Family Reunion
Aaron's run began with a unique status quo, with the Turtles dispersed globally. Raphael in prison, Michelangelo as a TV star in Japan, Leonardo as a brooding monk, and Donatello facing his own struggles. By the end of the initial storyline, the brothers reunite in New York City, though not without friction.
"Writing those first four issues was a blast, showcasing each brother in different global settings," Aaron shared. "The real fun begins when they're back together, seeing how they interact. Currently, they're not thrilled to be reunited, and old times aren't being relived. They're clashing, and none of them want to be there. In issue #6, as they return to New York, they find the city has changed, weaponized against them by a new Foot Clan villain. They're the most despised figures in the city, and their internal conflicts make their situation even more challenging."
Starting with issue #6, Juan Ferreyra joins as the new regular artist, bringing a consistent visual style to the series. Aaron expressed his enthusiasm, "Using different artists for the first five issues made sense as we focused on individual Turtles and introduced our new villain. But having Juan on board from issue #6 was perfect as the main plot unfolds. His work is incredible, perfectly suited for the Turtles' gritty urban adventures."
Merging the TMNT and Naruto Universes
Combining TMNT and Naruto is no small feat, yet Caleb Goellner and artist Hendry Prasetya have successfully crafted a crossover where the Turtles and the Uzumaki Clan share a world, meeting for the first time. Goellner credits Prasetya for the Turtles' redesigns, fitting them seamlessly into the Naruto universe.
"I couldn't be happier with the redesigns," Goellner told IGN. "I just suggested they wear masks like in Naruto, and what they came back with was phenomenal. I hope these designs get turned into toys; they'd look great on my shelf."
The crossover's charm lies in the character interactions, and Goellner shared his favorite pairings, "I aim to give every character a moment to shine. I particularly enjoy seeing Kakashi with anyone; as a dad, he's my viewpoint into the Naruto world. I relate to his challenges in managing the kids. Splinter is another favorite, though I'm not as wise or skilled as he is. But Kakashi's internal struggles while keeping things professional are relatable."
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 - Exclusive Preview Gallery
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Goellner also teased upcoming developments as the ninja clans venture into Big Apple Village, hinting at a major TMNT villain requested by Naruto creator Masashi Kishimoto, "He had one specific request for this crossover, involving a certain villain. I'm excited to see how fans react to this, as the feedback so far has been overwhelmingly positive."
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #7 hit stores on February 26, while Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 is set to 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 got an early look at IDW's new Godzilla shared universe and a sneak peek of an upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog storyline.
