Review: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #17
From IDW Publishing
Leading up to the big issue #300, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #17 is out this week from IDW Publishing.
High atop New York City, a battle rages for Splinter’s soul! As Shinigami exploits Splinter’s fear to open a portal to the great beyond, the Turtles take on a mystical battle that tests their very limits. Mikey discovers the key to saving their father from a shocking source, but can he make it back to his family before it’s too late?!
Author: Gene Luen Yang
Artist: Freddie Williams II
This was a really dense, eventful issue that manages to balance high-energy action with some genuinely meaningful character development. There’s a lot going on, but it never feels overwhelming—instead, it adds to the sense that everything is building toward something bigger.
Shinigami continues to stand out as a compelling wildcard. There’s a sense that she’s always a step ahead, carefully manipulating events to serve her own agenda. The way she operates through both Karai and Splinter makes her feel especially dangerous, as if she’s pulling strings from the shadows. Her connection to the mystical side of things blends naturally with the more grounded ninja elements, and that fusion gives the issue a unique tone. Splinter’s internal struggle is a key part of that, and seeing his fears manifest and ultimately drive his actions adds a tragic edge—he’s not just fighting enemies, he’s battling himself, and losing.
Visually, the issue is just as strong. The artwork does a great job of keeping up with the pace, giving each scene clarity while still delivering impact. Action sequences feel fluid and dynamic, but quieter moments aren’t neglected either. Every character gets a chance to stand out, which helps reinforce the ensemble nature of the series.
Michelangelo’s role is a highlight here. His subplot adds an emotional layer that contrasts nicely with the chaos elsewhere, and there’s a satisfying payoff to the setup from the previous issue. That moment of confirmation—where he realises he really is meeting who he hoped he was—lands well and gives his story a sense of forward momentum and heart.
Despite how fast things move, the issue still finds time for smaller, more personal interactions. These character and family moments help ground the story, reminding you what’s at stake beyond the immediate conflict. Even Karai, who often comes across as cold and calculating, is given a bit more depth here, showing hints of vulnerability that make her feel more human and conflicted.
The ending really drives everything home. It doesn’t just wrap up the immediate tension—it escalates it. There’s a strong sense that things are about to get worse for everyone involved, both in terms of the current threat and the wider narrative. It leaves you with that classic feeling of anticipation, knowing that the consequences of this issue will ripple out in a big way.
Get it from Forbidden Planet: