IDW's ambitious approach to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise continues to impress. 2024 saw the relaunch of the flagship TMNT comic under Jason Aaron, the sequel to the best-selling *TMNT: The Last Ronin*, and a thrilling *TMNT x Naruto* crossover. Now, in 2025, the main TMNT series boasts a new regular artist and a fresh status quo: the Turtles are reunited, but their brotherhood is fractured.
IGN Fan Fest 2025 provided an opportunity to speak with Aaron and *TMNT x Naruto* writer Caleb Goellner about the future of their respective books. We explored the evolution of their narratives, IDW's overarching vision for the TMNT line, and the Turtles' uncertain path to reconciliation.
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mission Statement
IDW's recent flurry of TMNT series launches, including the highly successful *Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1* (selling approximately 300,000 copies and ranking among the top-selling comics of 2024), prompted questions about their guiding vision. Aaron reveals a focus on revisiting the classic grit and grime of the original Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird Mirage Studios comics.
"My guiding principle was looking back at the original Mirage Studios series," Aaron explains. "Last year's 40th anniversary reminded me of my first experience with these characters—that original black and white book. I wanted to recapture that grittiness, the double-page spreads, the action of turtles fighting ninjas in New York alleyways."
He continues, "We aimed for that spirit while telling a new story, moving the characters forward after 150 issues. They've grown, reached a turning point, diverging in four directions. The story explores how they reunite and become the heroes they need to be."
The success of *TMNT #1*, alongside other reboots like Marvel's Ultimate Universe, DC's Absolute line, and Skybound's Energon Universe, suggests a strong audience demand for fresh starts in major franchises. Aaron reflects, "I just try to create stories that excite me. Getting the call to work on Turtles was exciting; I knew I could do something cool. The collaboration with incredible artists on the first six issues created a book that made me excited, and thankfully, that excitement resonated with others."
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #11 - Exclusive Preview Gallery
A TMNT Family Reunion
Aaron's TMNT run began with the Turtles scattered globally: Raph imprisoned, Mikey a TV star, Leo a monk, and Don in a precarious situation. The first storyline culminates in their reunion in New York City. Aaron discusses the satisfaction of bringing them back together, even amidst their strained relationships.
"The first four issues were fun, showing each brother in different situations. But the real fun is their interactions once reunited. Things aren't great; they rub each other the wrong way. None really want to be there. In issue #6, they return to a weaponized New York, becoming the city's most hated. The odds are stacked against them, and they can barely stand each other. How will they overcome this?"
Alongside the reunion, issue #6 introduces Juan Ferreyra as the new regular artist, providing a consistent visual style. Aaron praises Ferreyra's work, stating, "Having Juan come on with issue #6 made sense. He's doing incredible work; he was born to draw this kind of Turtle story. He's making this book his own in a huge way."
Merging the TMNT and Naruto Universes
Goellner and artist Hendry Prasetya's *TMNT x Naruto* crossover introduces a universe where the Turtles and the Uzumaki Clan coexist. Goellner credits Prasetya's redesigns for seamlessly integrating the Turtles into the Naruto universe.
"I couldn't be happier," Goellner says. "I had minimal suggestions. I can't take credit for the awesome redesigns. I hope they get made into toys!"
The crossover's appeal lies in the character interactions. Goellner highlights favorite pairings, stating, "My job is to ensure all characters have a moment. I really like seeing Kakashi with anyone. I also love Splinter, but Kakashi's internal face-palming while keeping things moving is great. I like Raph and Sakura; they bounce off each other well."
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 - Exclusive Preview Gallery
Goellner teases upcoming events, revealing a major TMNT villain specifically requested by Masashi Kishimoto for the crossover. "He requested a certain villain for the Naruto characters to fight. I won't say who, but I think everyone will be stoked."
*Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #7* released on February 26th, and *Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3* on March 26th. Also, check out IGN's exclusive preview of the final chapter of *TMNT: The Last Ronin II - Re-Evolution*, IDW's new Godzilla shared universe, and a sneak peek of an upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog storyline.
