IDW Publishing has been pushing the boundaries with their approach to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) franchise in recent years. In 2024, they relaunched the flagship TMNT comic under the stewardship 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. Moving into 2025, the main TMNT series introduces a new regular artist and a fresh status quo, with the four Turtles reunited but not on the best of terms.
During IGN Fan Fest 2025, we had the opportunity to delve into the future of these series with Jason Aaron and TMNT x Naruto writer Caleb Goellner. We explored how these stories evolve over time, 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 been prolific in launching new TMNT series, with the flagship monthly series making waves by selling around 300,000 copies of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1, placing it among the top-selling comics of 2024. Jason Aaron shared with IGN that the guiding vision for the TMNT line 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. “Last year marked the 40th anniversary of that series, which was my first encounter with these characters. Before the movies or cartoons, it was that black and white Mirage Studios book that captured my imagination. I wanted to recapture some of that grittiness and the action-packed scenes of the Turtles battling ninjas in New York City alleyways.”
Aaron further emphasized his goal to tell a new story that propels the characters forward, reflecting their growth and the challenges they face in reuniting as a team. “That's the spirit we're aiming for, but also to tell a story that feels fresh and moves these characters forward after all they've been through in the previous 150 issues of the IDW series. It's about seeing how they've grown up and reached a turning point where they're going in different directions, trying to figure out how to come back together and reclaim their heroic essence to win the upcoming fight.”
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #11 - Exclusive Preview Gallery
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The success of TMNT #1, alongside other major comic launches like Marvel’s Ultimate Universe, DC’s Absolute line, and Skybound’s Energon Universe, suggests a strong audience demand for rebooted and streamlined franchise stories. Aaron expressed his excitement and gratitude for being part of this trend, saying, “I'm just trying to create stories that excite me. When I got the call to work on Turtles, I knew it was an opportunity to do something special.”
He also praised the collaborative effort with a diverse group of artists over the first six issues, noting that the excitement he felt has resonated with readers. “This story is for both long-time fans and newcomers alike. The response has been incredibly positive, and I'm thrilled about that.”
A TMNT Family Reunion
Aaron's run on TMNT begins with an unconventional setup: the Turtles are scattered across the globe. Raphael is imprisoned, Michelangelo is a TV star in Japan, Leonardo is a brooding monk, and Donatello is in a dire situation. The first storyline culminates with the Turtles reuniting in New York City, though not under the best circumstances.
“It was fun to write those first four issues, showcasing each brother in different parts of the world,” Aaron said. “But the real thrill comes when they're all together, navigating their complex dynamics. At this stage, they're not happy to see each other; they're rubbing each other the wrong way.”
Aaron highlighted the challenges they face upon returning to a changed New York City, now weaponized against them by a new Foot Clan villain. “The Turtles are the most despised entities in the city, and they struggle to even be around each other. The question is, how will they unite to overcome these odds?”
Starting with issue #6, Juan Ferreyra takes over as the regular artist, bringing a consistent visual style to the series. Aaron expressed his enthusiasm for working with Ferreyra, noting his perfect fit for the Turtles' world. “Juan's work, especially in issues #6 and #7, captures the essence of the Turtles' adventures in New York City. He's making the book his own in a significant way.”
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 launched the TMNT x Naruto crossover series. The first two issues introduce a world where the Turtles and the Uzumaki Clan coexist, now encountering each other for the first time. Goellner credited Prasetya for the Turtles' redesigns, fitting them seamlessly into the Naruto universe.
“I'm thrilled with the redesigns,” Goellner said. “I only suggested they wear masks like in Naruto, and what they came back with was incredible. I hope they get made into toys someday.”
Goellner emphasized the joy of seeing the characters interact, particularly enjoying the dynamics between Kakashi and the young ninja. “Kakashi is my viewpoint character into the Naruto world, especially now as a dad. I relate to his challenges in managing the youth. I also love seeing Raph and Sakura together; they're both the heavy hitters of their teams.”
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 - Exclusive Preview Gallery
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Looking ahead, Goellner teased the arrival of the ninja clans in Big Apple Village and a major TMNT villain specifically requested by Naruto creator Masashi Kishimoto. “He had one request for this crossover: to have a certain villain appear and for the Naruto characters to fight them. I'm excited to see how fans react to this.”
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #7 was released on February 26, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 is set to hit stores on March 26. Don't miss IGN’s 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.
