Andrew Newton reviews Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Journeys #2…
Picking up after the Turtle’s fight with the Madhatten Maulitia in issue #1, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Journeys #2 dives deeper into the murky, unpredictable world of Volume 4’s reprinted storyline, with things only getting stranger for our heroes in a half shell.
Mikey finds himself in a strange and unfamiliar place, with plenty of strange and unfamiliar inhabitants, and a familiar face which offers some much-needed comfort (and asks a few new questions). Meanwhile, Donatello stumbles upon what initially appears to be an incredible discovery, only to uncover something far more sinister and horrific. This revelation sees him, Raphael and Casey dealing with the kind of clean-up job that’s as messy as it is mysterious.
Meanwhile, a touch of romance for Shadow brings a bit of relief to an otherwise dark issue. But even as their hearts flutter, dark clouds are gathering, particularly in space, where something ominous is taking shape.
As with issue #1, this issue continues the gritty look that sets Volume 4 apart. The art uses a dark tone that gives New York a grim and unfriendly quality. It’s a far cry from the brighter, cleaner city shown in the modern Nickelodeon cartoons. This is a world where danger feels real, and the characters have faced years of conflict and change.
This issue jumps around a bit, from Mikey’s alien surroundings to Don’s discovery underground, and the quieter character moments with Shadow, it all feels like part of a larger, carefully unfolding story.
Journeys #2 continues this often overlooked chapter in TMNT history. The strong character work and its distinctive visual style, make this series a must-read for fans seeking something a bit more serious and gritty.
Rating – The darker discoveries in this issue deserve an 8/10.
Andrew Newton
