TMNT Reviews: The Armageddon Game & The Last Ronin - The Lost Years
From IDW Publishing
Two titles from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - The Armageddon Game continues, and the second issue of the The Last Ronin - The Lost Years. Out now from IDW Publishing.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Armageddon Game #6
THE END-STAGE BEGINS! As the Armageddon Game reaches its iniquitous climax, the Rat King must take special care to keep his masterfully woven tapestry of anarchy from unraveling too quickly—a feat proving more and more difficult in the wake of mistakes made by his petulant and impatient puppets. No matter—chaos IS the name of the game. Meanwhile, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have regrouped in the city and are ready to go on the offensive…and this time they have reinforcements. Will the added strength of allies new and old be enough to stop the Rat King from bringing on the apocalypse, or will they meet their doom in the perilous game?
by Tom Waltz (Author), Vincenzo Federici (Artist), Matt Herms (Colorist)
Although this series/mini-series has felt a bit of a muddle in parts, this is where it all came together.
It can be difficult with such a large cast, but this issue combines all the parts of the Armageddon Game and the many characters involved. This is no mean feat, and it kept me in with it throughout. Every character had time to shine - even amid an alien invasion/battle.
The build was well done, with references to previous events and excellent team-ups between the TMNT and the rest as this battle continues.
I like how Hob and his team have a plan, and the Rat King is still about. I can’t wait for him to have the smile wiped from his face.
The art did an excellent job - with many battles and fight scenes in the sky and on the ground.
An excellent issue.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin—The Lost Years #2
THE TALE OF THE LAST RONIN’S FIRST MISSION CONTINUES! In the past, Michelangelo has mastered his first fighting form and has overcome his first gladiatorial challenge in Japan. With Master Splinter’s journal in his hands—and a burning desire for vengeance in his heart—Michelangelo resumes his westward trek across Asia and Europe in order to test his skills against his next deadly opponent. If he’s to have any chance of attaining victory in the final battle royal, Michelangelo will have to master an essential new martial skill—or die trying. Only then can he return to New York City to confront the Foot Clan. Thing is, he’s not alone. His dead brothers have joined him on his quest…and they won’t shut up! Meanwhile, in the present (a.k.a. our future!), Casey Marie Jones also follows the sage teachings found in Splinter’s journal as she continues her own journey as master and sensei to the next generation of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles! Writers Kevin Eastman and Tom Waltz, alongside artist Ben Bishop (TMNT: The Last Ronin), bring us the next exciting chapter from the Ronin-verse!
by Kevin B. Eastman (Author), Tom Waltz (Author), Ben Bishop (Artist)
Kicking off with a clever story of the original brothers and slightly happier times. It shows that not only are the new turtles learning, but Casey is also learning how to be a teacher and use these stories.
I enjoyed this story, and although it was pretty light on action, it kept me gripped.
Death Worm makes a good mid-point in the Last Ronin story before we get to what we know is to come. Nevertheless, the world-building done here was very special and made some sense.
We get a different training montage here, with a method that can only come from comics.
Michaelangelo seems to have come to terms with his spiritual company too, and I like how their personalities shine through.
Next issue, let us see how Michaelangelo’s driving goes.
