When Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Nation was announced, I assumed it would focus on the many supporting characters in the long-running, large-scale IDW TMNT operation. Characters like Old Hob and the Mutanimals, or Alopex and Weasel. So far, the first two issues have focused on Rafael and Casey Jones, who aren’t supporting characters. In many ways, Mutant Nation bridges the gap between the end of Sophie Campbell’s historic run and the beginning of Jason Aaron’s soft reboot. This is for those who want to get a better understanding of how the Turtles got to this point in the ongoing new series, while continuing the excellent stories you’ve come to expect from the likes of Tom Waltz and Eric Burnham. , has become a must-read book. Turtle fans are incredibly lucky to have multiple ongoing series featuring their favorite heroes in half-shell.
From page one, we’re in the thick of it.
Credit: IDW
story
Screenwriter Tom Waltz wastes no time and jumps right into the action of the main story. We find Rafael in the thick of it, kicking ass and making a name for himself in the deepest ranks of the Earth Protection Force. The first six pages are full of energy and fight, but Raph’s narration is anything but. It’s calm, cool, and even feels nostalgic. Waltz continues to really nail Raf’s inner monologue and his dry sarcastic tone. After all the action, we get a little solace with a few pages explaining Metalhead’s origins and how he found Rafael in the Nevada desert. While Ruff keeps the EPF busy, we understand what metalheads want, but it’s never fully explained. The main story ends on a bit of a cliffhanger, introducing a new villain who appears to be experimenting on familiar mutants. Suddenly, Ruff’s simple smash and diversion missions became much more complex.
In the backup story, Casey Jones and Natsu are sparring in the Foot Clan’s training room and discuss Karai. Casey is worried that he no longer listens to her, but Natsu isn’t worried. Although she trusts her leader, she doesn’t fully agree with most of Casey’s advice to begin with. Burnham does a good job of representing both sides of the argument while developing the relationship between Casey and Natsu. Although they don’t always get along, they respect each other as skilled warriors. The story ends with a brief cameo from everyone’s favorite scary mutant duo, Bebop and Rocksteady.
The story behind metal heads for beginners
Credit: IDW
art
In the main story, Vincenzo Federici absolutely crushes it with his art work. Double-page spreads contain big, bold panels full of action and movement that drive the story forward. Rafael’s expression shows complete disdain for Metal Head, and Pepperoni’s sad, pitiful eyes, trapped in Metal Head’s body, emphasize her helplessness. Federici draws our attention to the action by painting the background or leaving it mostly blank. Very few irrelevant things are depicted. If it’s in a panel, it’s important to the story. The new villain’s design is certainly interesting and I’m looking forward to seeing him reach his full potential.
Veteran TMNT colorist Rhonda Pattison continues her excellent and consistent work here, adding several different shades of color to the story’s flashback moments to differentiate them from current events. She uses lots of yellow and orange tones to fill in the sparse background and add a nice pop of color to the book.
In a back-up story, Mateusz Santolouco manages to turn what is essentially a conversation between colleagues into a fascinating sparring match. At first you use your fists, but quickly switch to a wooden practice sword to keep the visuals varied and interesting. There are some great facial expressions here as well as both fighters surprise each other or stand guard against vicious attacks. The art focuses on Casey and Natsu, almost completely ignoring the background for several pages. There’s a nice double-page spread mid-battle that cuts to Karai running through the rooftops of Tokyo chasing Dogstar Clan members. Bebop and Rocksteady were perfectly dressed for a night out in Las Vegas, but their new “human” character designs did a good job of capturing their unique animal traits and translating them into a new form. I was there. I can’t wait to see what happens with their trip to Las Vegas in the next issue.
final thoughts
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Nation #2 manages to blend classic TMNT action with the fresh, character-driven storytelling that fans of the series will love. It serves as the perfect bridge from the past to the next era of the series, introducing a fascinating new threat while delving into the nuanced relationships between the central characters. Stunning visuals by Federici and consistently immersive color by Pattison allow the main story to shine, while the backup offers a thoughtful look at the dynamics within the Foot Clan. Whether you’re here for action, lore, or mutant mayhem, Mutant Nation delivers on both style and substance. This series is quickly becoming a must-read for die-hard TMNT fans.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Nation #2 is full of action and mystery
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Nation #2
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Nation #2 manages to blend classic TMNT action with the fresh, character-driven storytelling that fans of the series will love. It serves as the perfect bridge from the past to the next era of the series, introducing a fascinating new threat while delving into the nuanced relationships between the central characters.
It effectively bridges past storylines and future arcs, making it a must-read for avid TMNT fans.
Highlights the complex personalities of major characters such as Rafael and Casey Jones.
Excellent artwork and vibrant colors
New villain’s purpose remains vague
