IDW's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Finally Gets the Brothers Back Together – IGN Fan Fest 2025

IDW has been incredibly ambitious with its approach to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) franchise in recent years. In 2024, they relaunched the flagship TMNT comic under the guidance of writer Jason Aaron, launched the sequel to the best-selling TMNT: The Last Ronin, and introduced a ninja-heavy crossover with TMNT x Naruto. As we move into 2025, the main TMNT series welcomes a new regular artist and a fresh status quo. The four Turtles are reunited, but their relationships are strained, setting the stage for compelling new narratives.

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 has launched several new TMNT series in a short span, with the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 becoming a hit, selling around 300,000 copies and ranking among the top-selling comics of 2024. Jason Aaron shared that his guiding vision for the series is to reconnect with 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 that series, which introduced the Turtles. My first experience with these characters was through that original black and white Mirage Studios book, before the films or cartoons. I wanted to recapture the grittiness, the griminess, and the dynamic action scenes of those early days, while also telling a new story that moves the characters forward."

Aaron aims to explore how the Turtles have grown and reached a turning point in their lives, navigating their individual paths while striving to reunite as 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 releases like Marvel’s Ultimate Universe line, DC’s Absolute line, and Skybound’s Energon Universe, suggests a strong audience demand for reboots and streamlined narratives of major franchises. Aaron expressed his excitement about being part of this trend, emphasizing his focus on crafting stories that excite him personally.

"I sit down to do my job here at my desk, in an empty basement by myself, and I'm just trying to make up stories that get me excited," Aaron said. "When I got the call about doing Turtles, I was thrilled for the opportunity and knew I could do something special. Working with an incredible array of artists over the first six issues has been a joy, and I believe this story appeals to both long-time fans and newcomers alike."

A TMNT Family Reunion

Aaron's run on TMNT began with a unique status quo, with the Turtles scattered across the globe. By the end of the first storyline, they reunite in New York City, though their relationships are far from harmonious. Aaron finds satisfaction in bringing the brothers back together, even as they struggle to reconnect.

"Those first four issues were fun to write, showcasing each brother in different global situations," Aaron noted. "The real fun begins when they're all together, seeing how they interact. At this point, they're not happy to see each other and are far from reliving old times. They're rubbing each other the wrong way, and none of them want to be there."

With issue #6, the series introduces Juan Ferreyra as the new regular artist, bringing a consistent visual style to the narrative. Aaron praised Ferreyra's work, noting his ability to capture the essence of the Turtles' adventures in New York City.

Merging the TMNT and Naruto Universes

Combining the iconic TMNT and Naruto franchises is no small feat, but Caleb Goellner and artist Hendry Prasetya have successfully done so with their crossover series. The first two issues introduce a world where the Turtles and the Uzumaki Clan coexist, with Goellner crediting Prasetya for the Turtles' redesigns that fit seamlessly into the Naruto universe.

"I couldn't be happier with the redesigns," Goellner told IGN. "I only had a few basic suggestions, like putting them in masks similar to Naruto's. What they came back with was unreal. I hope they get made into toys; it's my wish to add them to my collection."

Goellner enjoys the character interactions in the crossover, particularly appreciating Kakashi's role as a viewpoint character for him as a father. He also highlighted the dynamic between Raphael and Sakura, both being the 'tanks' of their respective teams.

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 as the two ninja clans navigate Big Apple Village.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #7 was released on February 26, while 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 an early look at IDW's new Godzilla shared universe and a sneak peek of an upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog storyline.