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 the exciting TMNT x Naruto crossover. Now, in 2025, the main TMNT series boasts a new regular artist and a revamped status quo: the Turtles are reunited, but their reunion is far from harmonious.

IGN Fan Fest 2025 provided an opportunity to speak with Aaron and TMNT x Naruto writer Caleb Goellner, delving into the future of their respective books. We explored the evolving narratives, IDW's overarching vision for the TMNT line, and the long-awaited reconciliation (or lack thereof) between Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo.

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mission Statement

IDW's rapid expansion of the TMNT universe, 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 revealed a focus on returning to the gritty essence of the original Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird Mirage Studios comics.

"For this book, the guiding principle was looking back at the original Mirage Studios series," Aaron shared. "Last year marked the 40th anniversary, and that original black and white book was my introduction to these characters. I wanted to recapture that grittiness, the double-page spreads, the action—grimy turtles fighting ninjas in New York City alleyways."

He continued, "We aimed for that spirit, but also a fresh story, moving these characters forward after 150 issues. It's a turning point; they're heading in different directions, needing to rediscover how to 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 accessible entries into major franchises. Aaron commented, "I sit down to make stories that excite me. Getting the call to work on Turtles was exciting, and I knew I could do something cool. The excitement translated to others, thankfully."

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #11 - Exclusive Preview Gallery

A TMNT Family Reunion

Aaron's TMNT run began with the Turtles scattered globally. Raph was imprisoned, Mikey a TV star in Japan, Leo a brooding monk, and Don in a dire situation. The first storyline culminated in their return to New York City. Aaron expressed satisfaction in bringing them back together, despite their strained relationships.

"The first four issues were fun, seeing each brother in different situations," Aaron said. "But the real fun is their interactions once reunited. Things aren't great; they're rubbing 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, even in Mutant Town. The odds are stacked against them, and they can barely stand each other. How will they win?"

Beyond the reunion, issue #6 introduced Juan Ferreyra as the new regular artist, providing a consistent visual style. Aaron praised Ferreyra's work, stating, "Juan's work has been killer. He's making this book his own."

Merging the TMNT and Naruto Universes

Goellner and artist Hendry Prasetya tackled the TMNT x Naruto crossover, introducing a shared universe where the Turtles and the Uzumaki Clan finally meet. Goellner credited Prasetya's redesigns of the Turtles, seamlessly integrating them into the Naruto world.

"I couldn't be happier," Goellner said. "I had minimal suggestions. Prasetya's redesigns are unreal. I hope they become toys!"

The crossover's appeal lies in the character interactions. Goellner highlighted his favorite pairings, stating, "I like seeing Kakashi with anyone; as a dad, he's my viewpoint character. I love Splinter, but Kakashi's internal face-palming is great. I also like Raph and Sakura—the tanks of their teams."

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

Goellner teased upcoming events, focusing on a major TMNT villain specifically requested by Masashi Kishimoto: "He requested a certain villain for the Naruto characters to fight. I won't say who, but it'll be pretty stoked."

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #7 released February 26th, 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.