Review: Casey Jones #2
From IDW Publishing
Continuing the adventures of Casey Jones in the universe of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is issue #2 from IDW Publishing.
Before Casey Jones meets his brand-new enemy Ludovic, he’ll have to do battle with his best friend Raphael first! Casey is investigating the rumors of a phony mutagen hitting the streets and seeking out whoever is going after mutants on the street, knowing in his gut they are connected. But he’s soon stopped by Raphael, who thinks Casey is pushing himself too hard and not listening to his better instincts. Casey and Raph fight through their feelings before being stopped by Ludovic, who wants to battle them both.
by Alex Paknadel (Author), Amancay Nahuelpan (Artist)
Casey Jones #2 from IDW Publishing is a powerful follow-up to the debut issue—one that doesn’t just continue the story but actually widens the lens. This chapter really digs into the players orbiting Casey’s investigation, giving us a clearer picture of who’s shaping the chaos around him and why it matters.
We also get a deeper dive into Mutant Town, and it’s every bit as gritty and unpredictable as you’d expect—underground fight clubs, dimly lit bars, and a rough energy that feels alive on the page. It’s the kind of environment where Casey naturally thrives, even if that knack for getting into trouble means he’s collecting as many bruises as clues.
Those beatings aren’t just surface-level, either. They’re starting to wear him down physically and emotionally, and we see how that strain is bleeding into his relationship with April. Her decision to reach out to Raph out of concern feels sincere, and the moment could’ve been a real turning point… if Raph hadn’t completely misread the situation. Naturally, that misunderstanding leads to a brief but intense clash between the two.
I say brief because things take a sudden left turn when Ludovic steps in. His interruption is one of the most unexpectedly compelling parts of the issue. There’s something deeply human (and a bit heartbreaking) about the way he’s treated by those around him and the way he internalises it. He adds a layer of emotional weight that I didn’t see coming, and it makes him a character I genuinely want to see more of.
The art is phenomenal throughout—high-energy fight scenes that practically swing off the page, contrasted with moody, quieter moments that carry a surprising emotional punch. The darker panels don’t just set the atmosphere; they deepen the tone of the story and the tension sitting beneath it.
If you’re not already reading this series, now is the perfect time to jump in. Casey Jones #2 builds on everything the first issue started and pushes it forward with style, heart, and a gritty edge that makes it impossible to put down.
Definitely check out the series—it’s shaping up to be something special.
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