"IDW's TMNT Reunites Brothers at IGN Fan Fest 2025"

IDW's ambitious approach to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) franchise continues to captivate fans with a series of exciting developments in 2024 and 2025. The year 2024 saw the relaunch of the flagship TMNT comic under the pen of acclaimed writer Jason Aaron, the eagerly awaited sequel to the best-selling TMNT: The Last Ronin, and an innovative crossover with the Naruto universe in TMNT x Naruto. Moving into 2025, the main TMNT series introduces a new regular artist and a fresh status quo, with the four Turtles reuniting in New York City, though not necessarily on the best of terms.

During IGN Fan Fest 2025, IGN had the opportunity to delve into the future of these series with Aaron and TMNT x Naruto writer Caleb Goellner. The discussion covered the evolution of the stories, the overarching mission for the TMNT line, and the prospects for reconciliation among Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo.

The Mission Statement of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

IDW's rapid expansion of the TMNT universe, particularly with the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1, which sold approximately 300,000 copies and ranked among the top-selling comics of 2024, showcases their commitment to the franchise. Aaron's vision for the series is deeply rooted in the original spirit of the Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird TMNT comics from the Mirage days. He aims to recapture the grittiness and action-packed essence of those early black-and-white issues while pushing the characters forward, exploring their growth and the challenges they face as they reunite in New York City.

Aaron's narrative begins with the Turtles scattered globally, each facing unique challenges, before reuniting in their iconic home. The new storyline sees them pitted against a weaponized New York City, courtesy of a new villain from the Foot Clan. The reunion, however, is far from harmonious, as the brothers struggle to reconnect and face their new adversary.

A New Artistic Vision

Starting with issue #6, Juan Ferreyra joins the series as the new regular artist, bringing a consistent visual style that Aaron praises highly. Ferreyra's work, especially in depicting the Turtles navigating the alleyways and rooftops of Manhattan, is seen as a perfect fit for the series' new direction.

Merging the TMNT and Naruto Universes

The TMNT x Naruto crossover, crafted by Goellner and artist Hendry Prasetya, introduces a world where the Turtles and the Uzumaki Clan coexist. Goellner credits Prasetya for the seamless integration of the Turtles into the Naruto universe, expressing hope that the new designs might one day be turned into toys. The series highlights the dynamic interactions between characters from both universes, with Goellner particularly enjoying the chemistry between Kakashi and the youthful heroes, as well as the fiery exchanges between Raphael and Sakura.

As the story progresses, the crossover promises more thrilling developments, including a showdown with a major TMNT villain specifically requested by Naruto creator Masashi Kishimoto. Fans can look forward to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 on March 26, alongside the release of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #7 on February 26. Additionally, IGN offered an exclusive preview of the final chapter of TMNT: The Last Ronin II - Re-Evolution.

IGN Fan Fest 2025 also provided sneak peeks into IDW's new Godzilla shared universe and an upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog storyline, highlighting the publisher's diverse and exciting portfolio.

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