TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES #16 (IDW Publishing)

The Ujigami has his eyes set on taking out Casey Jones as he believes that he will eventually kill Raphael. Raph and the rest of the Turtles are stuck between wanting to support their Father and defending their longtime friend and ally. Will the Turtles talk some sense into Splinter or will the Ujigami’s vendetta continue?

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #16 - Written By Gene Luen Yang – Art By Freddie Williams II & Fero Pe - Colors By Andrew Dalhouse & Luis Antonio Delgado - Letters By Shawn Lee - Edited By Jake Thomas - Published By IDW Publishing

Credit: IDW Publishing

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

STORY OVERVIEW:

The Ujigami has Casey Jones cornered on a roof ready to carry out his execution. But Raphael stops him just in time. Casey, not knowing what’s going on tries to fight back before being stopped by Michaelangelo. It’s at this point that the Ujigami reveals himself as Splinter for Casey, which really throws him off. The Turtles seemingly convince Splinter not to harm Casey as they also send Casey away. But Splinter has a trick up his sleeve as he uses the Shinigami’s Hypno Stones to put the Turtles in a sleep state. Well in the dream state the Turtles see them selves as human children in Japan. While that’s happening the Ujigami pays a visit to Oroku Karai to take her out once and for all. Unfortunately, this is a trap, and Splinter has no back up as the trap is sprung on him.

WRITING:

Just when you think the story can’t get any better, it tops itself yet again. Gene Leun Yang has really crafted a story arc for the ages. Starting with some infighting and ending with a major showdown with backup hopefully on the way. The emotions run wild throughout this issue keeping the reader engrossed in the story. The vision the Turtles see well under the Hypno Stones spell shows a different side of our heroes and a vision of what could have been. Yang really captures this emotional turmoil and makes the reader feel all the emotions our beloved characters are feeling. As this series goes on, the more this story captures the readers’ imagination and attention.

ARTWORK:

The artwork in this issue stands out for its vivid detail and immersive quality. Freddie Williams II & Fero Pe pull readers into the TMNT Universe with powerful dramatic scenes and expressive character designs. Andrew Dalhouse & Luis Antonio Delgado enhanced the visuals with a classic, well-chosen color palette, while Shawn Lee's lettering adds emotional depth. The art team collaborates smoothly to deliver an impressive visual experience.

check out my review of teenage mutant ninja turtles #15

Final Thoughts:

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #16 is a dramatic and emotional ride that builds on this tremendous story arc. The more we dive into this arc the more it drives us to want more. This series and line have been a bright spot every month at the shops, and this issue continues that trend. As we approach an upcoming climax there is no fear of it disappointing as the story has been that damn good. If this series isn’t already on your Pull List, make sure to add it ASAP!

FINAL GRADE: 9.5/10

Let me know your thoughts on TMNT #16 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!