While the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles They are famously known as the “heroes in a half shell”, an equally suitable nickname is “masters of the multiverse”. Long before the concept of the multiverse gained popularity in comics, the brothers were collaborating with characters outside their own universe, dimension or timeline.
The multiverse has been a central element of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles narrative, making even the most implausible crossovers seem natural for the “cowabunga” quartet. This theme has been present since the beginning of the franchise. For example, the dimension-hopping Triceratons made their debut in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #6 by Kevin Eastman, Peter Laird and Steve Lavigne. Naturally, some of these crossover stories are better than others, but they all promise the kind of fun you can only have with the Turtles.
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Masters of the Universe / Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Turtles of Grayskull
By Tim Seeley and Freddie E. Williams II | Dark Horse Comics | 2024
In this crossover of iconic franchises, after interrupting a meeting between Shredder and Krang with Skeletor, the Turtles and the villains are inadvertently transported to Eternia through the dark magic portal that facilitated the villains' communication. Once there, the Turtles find allies in He-Man, while Shredder and Krang quickly form an alliance with Skeletor. With the battle lines drawn, the two forces face off in an all-out battle between good and evil.
What draws attention to this crossover is the intrigue it generates in the combination of two very different franchises. However, fans of both franchises will love the abundance of action-packed battles and fight scenes that both series are known for. Furthermore, by bringing together three well-known villains for the first time, the series offers an interesting representation of villainy. Ultimately, the story explores the core elements that made both franchises fun. In doing so, the series offers a compelling story of complementary heroes and villains that is worth reading.
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Creed / Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
By Trent Kaniuga | Lightning Comics | 1996
This one-shot is without a doubt the most exclusive TMNT crossover – and that's because it unites the brothers with Mark Farley, also known as Creed, the hero and champion of the Dream Dimension. But in the Turtles' reality, he's just a normal, geeky teenager. The story begins when the Turtles foil a bank robbery targeting Farley. However, things get worse and Leonardo, Raphael and Farley – along with their frog companion, Cascan – are transported to the Dream Dimension. Trapped, they must navigate their way home while fighting an army of demons determined to prevent their escape.
Although the story would have benefited from additional issues to explore the interactions between the Turtles, Creed, and the Dream Dimension's connection to the real world, this one-shot remains exceptional. Notably, it's one of the more plausible crossovers, given that Farley and the Turtles inhabit the same New York neighborhood, and Farley's history of mugging makes their meeting likely. What's even more remarkable is the convergence of two cult heroes from that era under the same narrative umbrella.
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Mighty Morphin Power Rangers/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
By Ryan Parrott and Simone Di Meo | Boom! IDW Studios and Publishing | 2019
In the inaugural comic book crossover between these two iconic franchises, the Power Rangers arrive in New York City in search of the AWOL Green Ranger, Tommy Oliver. Upon discovering his alliance with the Shredder's Foot Clan, the Rangers intervene, hoping to persuade him to return to their ranks. Meanwhile, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles encounter Green Ranger while fighting the Foot Clan and recognize him as a formidable threat, rivaling Shredder. As both teams converge in search of Tommy, tensions rise before they realize their common goals.
When iconic heroes come together, fans can't help but notice. In this crossover, however, there is more to enjoy than just excitement and excitement. The story carefully creates a scenario where the Power Rangers and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles meet and team up under circumstances that feel natural for both franchises. It strikes the perfect balance, combining elements from each series to create a narrative that appeals to longtime fans while inviting new ones into the fold. It's important not to confuse this crossover with its 2022 sequel. While the sequel has its merits, it doesn't capture the nostalgic charm of this original collaboration.
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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles vs. Street Fighter
By Paul Allor and Ariel Medel | IDW Publishing | 2023
While it's easy to imagine the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles being fans of the Street Fighter series of games, it's another thing entirely to see them face off against their favorite gaming icons in real life. That's exactly what happens in this intriguing crossover, where the Turtles enter a martial arts competition that pits them against the legendary Street Fighter cast of Ryu and Chun Li. However, winning the competition becomes secondary when a mysterious force begins kidnapping participants, forcing the Turtles and Street Fighters to join forces to uncover the truth.
Given that Street Fighter is fundamentally about proving who is the better fighter, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles thrive on their love of a good fight, this series offers the final stage in enjoying kumite in its most artistically visceral form. The series features a mixed martial arts tournament featuring familiar characters from pop culture. The result is pure pugilistic poetry, brought to life with stunning artistry that any TMNT fan will undoubtedly appreciate. This crossover delivers exactly what fans want: thrilling, action-packed showdowns between iconic characters, all wrapped up in a story that celebrates the essence of both franchises.
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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles / Flaming Carrot
By Bob Burden and Jim Lawson | Mirage Studios | 1993
No crossover better showcases the breadth of characters the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have met or the diversity of alternate universes explored over the years than the TMNT / Flaming Carrot miniseries. Although the paths of the Turtles and the Flaming Carrot had already crossed in The flaming carrot series, this marked their first independent collaboration. In this crossover, Flaming Carrot and Mystery Men join forces with the Turtles and the US government to investigate strange green flame beings spotted in Central America. It's an old-fashioned comic book with the most bizarre groups of heroes fans have ever seen.
The flaming carrotWhile it pays homage to the traditions of classic superhero comics, it also serves as a sharp parody of the genre, infused with a touch of real-world social commentary. It challenges readers to suspend their disbelief even more than usual. Writer Bob Burden brings his signature irreverence to this crossover, and it works – arguably even better than usual from a storytelling standpoint. Notably, taking the Turtles out of their usual sewers and shadows and integrating them into the broader community of heroes casts them in a new and intriguing light that fans are sure to find appealing.
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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #8
Cerebus with special participation | By Kevin Eastman, Peter Laird and David Sim | Mirage Studios | 1986
The diversity of TMNT crossovers is perhaps best exemplified by Cerebus, the sometimes good-natured, sometimes deeply serious aardvark who, in his own universe, rose from a hard-drinking bandit warrior to become prime minister and pope. In 1986 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #8, the Turtles join Cerebus after being transported to their dimension by Renet, the apprentice of Simultaneous, the Lord of Time. Realizing her mistake, Renet enlists the help of Cerebus and the Turtles to make things right. This crossover masterfully combines the quirky and deep elements of the world of Cerebus with the action that TMNT fans love.
The hallmark of this crossover is the seamless integration of one of the most intriguing and influential comic book characters that many fans may not be familiar with: Cerebus. Despite the often complex and layered nature of Cerebus' story, this crossover presents it in a clear and accessible way, aligning perfectly with the Turtles' recurring themes of time-hopping and dimension-hopping subplots. Ultimately, this story is a thoughtful and engaging adventure, whether you're a fan of TMNT, Cerebus, or compelling crossover tales.
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Batman/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
By James Tynion IV and Freddie Williams II | DC Comics and IDW Publishing | 2015
Among the various Batman/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles crossovers, the original series by James Tynion IV and Freddie Williams II stands out as exceptional. The story begins with the Turtles and Shredder being mysteriously transported to Gotham City. As both sides try to find their way back home, their ongoing battles in this new setting inevitably attract Batman's attention. The narrative seamlessly integrates the lore of both series, creating a captivating tale that balances darkness and humor. Additionally, Williams' art expertly captures the tone, elevating the overall storytelling experience.
No other mainstream comic shares the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles aesthetic and vibe like Batman. Both stories are set in dark and dreary urban environments, where shadows play as important a role as the characters themselves. Both feature heroes who thrive in darkness, relying on martial arts and skills rather than superpowers to triumph in battle. This synergy makes Batman and the Turtles near-perfect crossover partners. It's no surprise, then, that Batman has bonded with the Turtles more than any other mainstream character.
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Wild Dragon / Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
By Erik Larsen and Michael Dooney | Mirage Studios | 1993
Although the Turtles made frequent appearances in Erik Larsen's Savage Dragon and the Savage Dragon appeared occasionally in TMNT, an “official” crossover didn't happen until Michael Dooney and Erik Larsen. Wild Dragon / Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. The story begins with Raphael taking a solo trip to Chicago, with the aim of taking down the villain Complete Carnage. However, when Raphael becomes overwhelmed in his attempt to stop the villain, the Wild Dragon steps in to help. Even with their combined efforts, the battle proves too difficult – until Raphael's brothers arrive just in time to turn the tide.
Based on the extensive interactions between the two series, this crossover stands out as one of the Turtles' most complex in the best way possible. Rather than being a self-contained story, the narrative continues within The Wild Dragon series, making it a true example of the classic “crossover” paradigm. The story fits deftly into the canon of both franchises, while also being engaging enough to add significant value to their respective narratives – no doubt a result of their previous iterations. It's truly one of the standout superhero tales from independent publishers of that era of comics.
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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles/Usagi Yojimbo: Where and When
By Stan Sakai | IDW Publishing | 2023
One of the first TMNT crossovers occurred with Stan Sakai's samurai warrior Usagi Yojimbo in the 1987 one-shot special, Turtle Soup #1. Since then, Usagi and the Turtles have teamed up several times. Their most notable collaboration, however, is the 2023 WhereWhen. As in previous crossovers, this story transports the Turtles to feudal Japan, where they are reunited with Usagi. This time, the stakes are higher, as Usagi needs the Turtles' help to save Japan from the deadly threat posed by Dr. WhereWhen.
What really sets this crossover apart from other encounters between the Turtles and the iconic warrior rabbit is its refreshing return to basics, especially with the Turtles. Their appearance, vibe, and mannerisms closely reflect how they originally emerged in the mid-1980s: four skilled teenagers who love to show off, fight, and have fun. Furthermore, the story benefits greatly from Sakai's experience in crafting compelling narratives that seamlessly combine elements of Japanese history with a world where the main historical figures are anthropomorphic animals. Even readers who are not familiar with Yojimbo or TMNT You will find this story enjoyable.
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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto
By Caleb Goellner and Hendry Prasetya | Viz Media and IDW Publishing | 2024
In an innovative crossover that bridges the divide between comics and manga, the Turtles cross paths with the legendary Naruto franchise. This collaboration reunites the brothers with the equally talented young trio of Team Seven, consisting of Naruto, Sasuke and Sakura. The story offers a classic ninja vs. ninja showdown as the two groups face off against the Foot Clan. Along the way, they encounter scenarios that challenge both teams in ways they have never experienced before. However, the real magic lies in the potential for incredible synergy – if the Turtles and Team Seven can overcome their differences and work together.
Unlike other crossovers, this one unites two groups deeply connected by their shared identity as “old school ninjas” and their unwavering dedication to the growth and evolution of the shinobi way of life. Although their styles may differ, the Turtles and Team Seven are naturally positioned to understand each other's combat approaches and show interest in learning new techniques from each other. These connections not only enrich the story, but also create opportunities for both teams to strengthen each other, encouraging each other – especially the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles – to become better than ever.