IDW has been boldly expanding its Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) universe, launching several exciting projects in 2024, including a flagship TMNT comic relaunch with writer Jason Aaron, a sequel to the best-selling TMNT: The Last Ronin, and a unique crossover, TMNT x Naruto. As we move 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 with strained relationships.
During IGN Fan Fest 2025, we had the opportunity to discuss the future of these series with Jason Aaron and TMNT x Naruto writer Caleb Goellner. We explored how these stories evolve, 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 rapid expansion of the TMNT series, including the flagship monthly comic, has been notable. The new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 was a massive success, selling around 300,000 copies and ranking among the top-selling comics of 2024. Jason Aaron shared that his vision for the series is rooted in 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 explained to IGN. “Last year marked the 40th anniversary of the series, which was my first experience with the characters. Before the films or cartoons, it was that original black and white Mirage Studios book. I wanted to recapture some of the grittiness and action-packed scenes of the Turtles fighting ninjas in New York City alleyways.”
Aaron added, “We aimed to blend that spirit with a new story, pushing the characters forward after their experiences in the previous 150 issues of the IDW series. It's about seeing how they've grown and reached a turning point, trying to reunite 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 reboots like Marvel’s Ultimate Universe and DC’s Absolute line, suggests a strong demand for accessible entry points into major franchises. Aaron reflected on this trend, saying, “It certainly seems like it after last year. I'm just trying to craft stories that excite me, and the opportunity to work on Turtles was unexpected but thrilling. I knew we could do something special, and the response has been fantastic.”
A TMNT Family Reunion
Aaron's run began with the Turtles scattered globally: Raph in prison, Mike as a TV star in Japan, Leo as a brooding monk, and Don facing his own struggles. By the end of the first storyline, they reunite in New York City. Aaron shared his satisfaction in bringing them back together, even amidst tension.
“The first four issues were fun to write, showcasing each brother in different global situations,” Aaron said. “The real challenge and fun came when they reunited, seeing how they interact now. They're not happy to see each other, and the city has changed, weaponized against them by a new Foot Clan villain. They're the most hated in New York, and they can barely stand each other. How will they overcome these challenges and unite?”
Starting with issue #6, Juan Ferreyra becomes the new regular artist, bringing a consistent visual style. Aaron praised Ferreyra’s work, saying, “Juan's art is perfect for the Turtles, especially in scenes of them navigating Manhattan's rooftops and alleyways. He's made the book his own in a significant way.”
Merging the TMNT and Naruto Universes
Combining TMNT and Naruto is no small feat, but Caleb Goellner and artist Hendry Prasetya have successfully introduced a shared universe where the Turtles and the Uzumaki Clan meet for the first time. Goellner credited Prasetya for the Turtles' redesigns, which seamlessly fit into the Naruto world.
“I couldn't be happier with the redesigns,” Goellner told IGN. “I suggested masks in the first issue, and what they came back with was incredible. I hope they become toys, just to add to my collection.”
Goellner enjoyed crafting interactions between the characters, especially Kakashi's role as a mentor figure, mirroring his own experiences as a father. “I like seeing Kakashi with anyone, managing the kids. Splinter is great, but Kakashi's internal face-palming while keeping things professional is fun. I'm excited for the upcoming issues, especially as the fighting intensifies in #3.”
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 - Exclusive Preview Gallery
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Goellner teased that the series will feature 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 as the story unfolds in Big Apple Village.”
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #7 hit stores on February 26, while Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 releases on March 26. Be sure to check out IGN’s exclusive preview of the final chapter of TMNT: The Last Ronin II - Re-Evolution, as well as sneak peeks of IDW's new Godzilla shared universe and an upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog storyline.
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