IDW Reunites TMNT Brothers at IGN Fan Fest 2025

IDW has been ambitiously expanding the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) franchise, with significant releases in 2024, including a relaunch of the flagship TMNT comic under writer Jason Aaron, the sequel to the best-selling TMNT: The Last Ronin, and a crossover event with TMNT x Naruto. As we move into 2025, the main TMNT series introduces a new regular artist and a new dynamic for the Turtles, who are now reunited but not on the best of terms.

During IGN Fan Fest 2025, we had the opportunity to discuss with Jason Aaron and TMNT x Naruto writer Caleb Goellner about the future of their projects. Key topics included the evolution of their stories, the overarching mission for the TMNT line, and the potential reconciliation of Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo.

The Mission Statement of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

IDW's launch of multiple TMNT series in a short period, including the flagship monthly, has been remarkably successful. The new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 sold approximately 300,000 copies, ranking among the top-selling comics of 2024. Jason Aaron shared that the guiding vision for the TMNT line is to reconnect with the essence of the original Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird TMNT comics from the Mirage days.

Aaron emphasized his desire to recapture the gritty, action-packed feel of the original black and white series while pushing the characters forward after their experiences in the previous 150 issues of the IDW series. He aims to explore the Turtles' growth and their struggle to reunite and reclaim their role as heroes amidst new challenges.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #11 - Exclusive Preview Gallery

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The success of TMNT #1 alongside other major reboots and streamlined franchises suggests a strong audience demand for accessible entry points into these beloved universes. Aaron expressed his excitement about contributing to this trend, driven by his passion for storytelling and his personal connection to the Turtles since their inception.

A TMNT Family Reunion

Aaron's run began with the Turtles scattered globally, each in unique circumstances. By the end of the first storyline, they reunite in New York City, but their reunion is fraught with tension. Aaron finds joy in exploring the dynamics between the brothers as they navigate their strained relationships and the new, hostile environment of a weaponized New York City.

The series sees a significant change with Juan Ferreyra joining as the new regular artist starting with issue #6. Aaron praises Ferreyra's ability to capture the essence of the Turtles and their urban adventures, adding a consistent visual style to the narrative.

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 innovative redesigns of the Turtles, seamlessly integrating them into the Naruto universe.

Goellner enjoys showcasing interactions between characters from both franchises, particularly highlighting the challenges of managing a diverse group of heroes. He also teased the involvement of a major TMNT villain in the storyline, a specific request from Naruto creator Masashi Kishimoto, promising an exciting development as the series progresses into Big Apple Village.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 - Exclusive Preview Gallery

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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #7 was released on February 26, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 is set to hit shelves 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, insights into IDW's new Godzilla shared universe and a sneak peek at an upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog storyline were also shared.