IDW's TMNT Reunites Brothers at IGN Fan Fest 2025

IDW has been nothing short of ambitious with its approach to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise in recent years. In 2024, they relaunched the flagship TMNT comic under writer Jason Aaron, initiated a sequel to the best-selling TMNT: The Last Ronin, and launched a ninja-themed crossover with TMNT x Naruto. Moving into 2025, the main TMNT series introduces a new regular artist and a fresh status quo, where the four Turtles have reunited in New York City, though their relationships are strained.

During IGN Fan Fest 2025, we had the opportunity to discuss with Jason Aaron and Caleb Goellner, the writer of TMNT x Naruto, about the future of their series. We explored how these stories evolve, 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 has rapidly expanded the TMNT universe with multiple new series, including the successful relaunch of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1, which sold approximately 300,000 copies and ranked among the top-selling comics of 2024. Jason Aaron shared his vision for the series, emphasizing a return to the grittiness and action of the original Mirage Studios comics by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird.

"For me, the guiding principle was to look back at that original series, the original Mirage Studios book," Aaron explained. "Last year marked the 40th anniversary of the Turtles' introduction, and that was my first encounter with these characters. Before the movies or the cartoons, it was the original black and white book. I wanted to recapture some of that grittiness and the action scenes of the Turtles fighting ninjas in New York City's alleyways."

Aaron's goal is to blend this classic feel with new narratives that reflect the Turtles' growth and their journey towards reuniting as the heroes they need to be in their current battle.

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The success of TMNT #1, alongside other major comic series reboots like Marvel's Ultimate Universe, DC's Absolute line, and Skybound's Energon Universe, suggests a strong audience demand for streamlined and rebooted franchises. Aaron, a seasoned writer with over 20 years in the industry, expressed his excitement about contributing to this trend.

"I sit down to do my job here at my desk, and I'm just trying to make up stories that excite me," Aaron said. "When I got the call about doing Turtles, I was thrilled. I knew we could do something special, and working with an incredible lineup of artists made it even more exciting. This story is for both long-time Turtles fans and newcomers alike."

A TMNT Family Reunion

Aaron's initial storyline saw the Turtles scattered across the globe, each facing their own challenges. By the end of the first arc, they were brought back together in New York City, a city now weaponized against them by a new villain from the Foot Clan.

"Those first issues were fun, seeing the brothers in different situations," Aaron remarked. "But the real excitement begins when they reunite, navigating their strained relationships. They're not happy to be together, and the city has changed, making their fight even tougher."

With issue #6, Juan Ferreyra became the new regular artist, bringing a consistent visual style to the series. Aaron praised Ferreyra's work, noting his ability to capture the essence of the Turtles in action.

Merging the TMNT and Naruto Universes

The TMNT x Naruto crossover, written by Caleb Goellner and illustrated by Hendry Prasetya, merges these iconic universes, introducing a world where the Turtles and the Uzumaki Clan coexist. Goellner credits Prasetya for the innovative redesigns of the Turtles, fitting them seamlessly into the Naruto universe.

"I couldn't be happier with the redesigns," Goellner said. "I suggested they wear masks like in Naruto, and what they came back with was incredible. I hope they get turned into toys."

The crossover series highlights the interactions between characters from both franchises. Goellner enjoys seeing Kakashi's interactions with the younger characters, drawing parallels to his own experiences as a father. He also appreciates the dynamic between Raphael and Sakura, both key players on their teams.

As the series progresses into Big Apple Village, Goellner teased a major TMNT villain's appearance, specifically requested by Naruto creator Masashi Kishimoto. This villain's confrontation with the Naruto characters promises to be a highlight for fans.

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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #7 hit stores on February 26, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 is set for release on March 26. Additionally, IGN offers an exclusive preview of the final chapter of TMNT: The Last Ronin II - Re-Evolution.

As part of IGN Fan Fest 2025, we also got a sneak peek at IDW's new Godzilla shared universe and an upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog storyline.