IDW Publishing has been pushing the boundaries with its Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) franchise, delivering a series of ambitious projects in 2024. Under the guidance of writer Jason Aaron, the flagship TMNT comic was relaunched, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter. The sequel to the highly successful TMNT: The Last Ronin was also launched, continuing the saga that captivated fans worldwide. Additionally, a unique crossover event, TMNT x Naruto, was introduced, blending the worlds of these iconic ninjas. As we move into 2025, the main TMNT series welcomes a new regular artist and a fresh status quo, with the four Turtles reuniting in New York City, albeit with strained relationships.

At IGN Fan Fest 2025, we had the opportunity to delve into the future of these series with Jason Aaron and Caleb Goellner, the writer behind TMNT x Naruto. We explored how these narratives 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 flagship monthly series achieving remarkable success. The new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 sold around 300,000 copies, making it one of the top-selling comics of 2024. Jason Aaron shared his vision for the series, emphasizing a return to the gritty roots of the original 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, and that was my first experience with these characters. Before the films or cartoons, it was that black and white Mirage Studios book. I wanted to recapture some of its grittiness and action-packed scenes of the Turtles fighting ninjas in New York City alleyways.”

Aaron also aimed to propel the characters forward, reflecting on their growth and the challenges they face as they reunite in New York City, striving to reclaim their heroic essence amidst new threats.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #11 - Exclusive Preview Gallery

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TMNT #1's success aligns with a trend where audiences are drawn to reboots and streamlined versions of major franchises, evidenced by the popularity of Marvel’s Ultimate Universe, DC’s Absolute line, and Skybound’s Energon Universe. Aaron expressed his excitement and commitment to crafting stories that resonate with both long-time fans and newcomers.

A TMNT Family Reunion

Aaron's TMNT run begins with the Turtles scattered across the globe, each facing unique challenges. By the end of the first storyline, they reunite in New York City, setting the stage for a tense family dynamic. Aaron finds joy in exploring the brothers' interactions and the new challenges they face in a city that has turned against them.

Starting with issue #6, Juan Ferreyra takes on the role of the new regular artist, bringing a consistent visual style that Aaron praises for its suitability to the Turtles' gritty urban adventures.

Merging the TMNT and Naruto Universes

The TMNT x Naruto crossover, crafted by Caleb Goellner and artist Hendry Prasetya, merges the worlds of these iconic franchises. Goellner credits Prasetya for seamlessly integrating the Turtles into the Naruto universe through clever redesigns. The series explores the dynamics between the characters, with Goellner enjoying the interactions, particularly those involving Kakashi and the youthful energy of both teams.

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

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Goellner teased the upcoming clash between the TMNT and Naruto characters in Big Apple Village, hinting at a significant TMNT villain's involvement, specifically requested by Naruto creator Masashi Kishimoto.

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. Fans can also look forward to the final chapter of TMNT: The Last Ronin II - Re-Evolution, as well as exciting developments in IDW's new Godzilla shared universe and an upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog storyline.