Which is your favorite version of TMNT?

[JWarner]

I'm new here and don't know how to do polls and such. I'm sure this has been covered somewhere. Can someone direct me to the thread? or set up a poll?

Just curious what the percentages are.

[Lynn]

It was last posted in over a month ago. This is fine.:)

I prefer the old toons. Mainly that's because I've seen only a few episodes of the new version and haven't seen the movies.:lol:

[Davetello]

I would say the comics. The original Volume 1 Mirage run was especially brilliant.

In terms of viewing, 2k3 is exceptional in places. I have watched it repeatedly. it is one of those shows with which you wish you could erase it from your memory so you could watch it again without knowing what happens. Sure, parts of Fast Forward and BttS are of lower quality, and the first 4 seasons are definitely its peak imo, but the show overall is excellent.

The 1987 series has lost a bit of gloss with time but is still a decent watch. The fact 2k3 has far better art and animation (advantages of being more recent) and is based on the comic source material clinches it for me.

The Next Mutation is worth a watch but not really anything special.

[Davetello]

It was last posted in over a month ago. This is fine.:)

I prefer the old toons. Mainly that's because I've seen only a few episodes of the new version and haven't seen the movies.:lol:

I would recommend you get the DVDs of the first season of 2k3 and watch the first movie.

You would really enjoy them i think.

[drasgow]

mirage. definitely.

[ToTheNines]

They all knock my socks off.

[TheCanadiandrome]

They all knock my socks off.
ditto for sure

[Samhain]

Mirage volume one.

[Redeemer]

They all knock my socks off.


I agree 100%

[JWarner]

I wondered if it was more Mirage or Fred Wolfe or WB or movie or even Imagi? I think we can agree they all are good for different reasons... but which is your absolute favorite?

Mine is Vol 1 issue 1... it was never meant to be an ongoing... then the books all sold out, and the rest is history.

[Powder]

Pretty impossible for me to choose... I can't honestly say.

[ryukenden]

Like just about everyone else I grew up with the OT and was hooked. But I did find a liking to the NT since every Turtle was more true to the original Mirage comics than the OT.

[Redeemer]

Like just about everyone else I grew up with the OT and was hooked. But I did find a liking to the NT since every Turtle was more true to the original Mirage comics than the OT.

That is a good point, but the OT had more potential if it was a dark series, but it was a childrens which was awesome. Truthfully I think the first movie is the best, at least my favorite to watch, its either that or The Original Comics.

[Cipher]

Turtles is one of those things where I find something to enjoy in every version. But the Mirage comic is my hands-down favorite. "City at War" is still the pinnacle of all Turtles fiction by a large degree.

[Lynn]

I would recommend you get the DVDs of the first season of 2k3 and watch the first movie.

You would really enjoy them i think.

Thanks. I'll definately check them out!

[JWarner]

Turtles is one of those things where I find something to enjoy in every version. But the Mirage comic is my hands-down favorite. "City at War" is still the pinnacle of all Turtles fiction by a large degree.

I feel like an ass because I have not read that yet and my understaning is it is as you say, hands down, the best storyline... That's the one that introduces Karai, right? I think I heard that on the commentary for "TMNT"

Anyway, I need to get to the comic shop and pick up trades... Haven't been in a couple years...

[Mighty Bebop]

Probably the movie 1 versions, followed by the OT and then the Mirage comics, but it's a very close race.

[Original TMNT Cartoon Fan]

1987 cartoon. But new threads with this discussion appear often here.

[Candy Kappa]

mirage turtles no doubt

[Cipher]

I feel like an ass because I have not read that yet and my understaning is it is as you say, hands down, the best storyline... That's the one that introduces Karai, right? I think I heard that on the commentary for "TMNT"That'd be the one.

Unfortunately there's never been a trade collection, but most of the individual issues are easy to come by, with the exception of Parts 1 and 2, which seem to be a bit more rare.

[JWarner]

Thanks! I'll look for it.

[DonatelloDomeHead31]

I still have to go with the Old Toons TMNT just because of the laughs they brought along.

I also like the Archie Comics TMNT.

[Spacebabie]

As much as I enjoy the old toon I am going to have to say 2k3 is my favorite because I gave it my highest rank of it as being. "Gargoyles level good."

[dontplaydead27]

I grew up with the original cartoon, but now going back and watching it, I find it less appealing. I would say the original movie is my favorite version of TMNT.

You wanna hear something stupid? I have the original comics issues 1-16? and the Leo, Don, Raph, and Mike and Fugitoid one-shots (cant remember if Fugitoid was a one-shot or not), and multiple copies of the first issue, and collected volumes 1-3 but i've only read the first issue because i'm afraid if I take them out to read, my finger sweat is going to ruin them.

Seriously, I sweat REALLY bad in my palms and fingers, which also ruins guitar strings quick, and I think it ruins the old comic paper- especially comic paper that old. I guess I could download the issues on here for CDisplay...which now I reminded myself that I already did that!

[Mighty Bebop]

I grew up with the original cartoon, but now going back and watching it, I find it less appealing. I would say the original movie is my favorite version of TMNT.

You wanna hear something stupid? I have the original comics issues 1-16? and the Leo, Don, Raph, and Mike and Fugitoid one-shots (cant remember if Fugitoid was a one-shot or not), and multiple copies of the first issue, and collected volumes 1-3 but i've only read the first issue because i'm afraid if I take them out to read, my finger sweat is going to ruin them.

Seriously, I sweat REALLY bad in my palms and fingers, which also ruins guitar strings quick, and I think it ruins the old comic paper- especially comic paper that old. I guess I could download the issues on here for CDisplay...which now I reminded myself that I already did that!

Or you could just get some gloves. ;)

[Jester]

Really hate to necro-post, but I figured I'd look for a thread that asked this rather than make a 56th new thread on the same topic.

I'd lean toward Archie and the FW series, mainly out of nostalgia. It and the Barron flick. Honestly I've read very little of the Mirage run. Liked Image more than I thought I would. IDW's pretty strong, but it has some flaws.

So...favorite part of the Multiverse?

[CyberCubed]

Really hate to necro-post, but I figured I'd look for a thread that asked this rather than make a 56th new thread on the same topic.

I'd lean toward Archie and the FW series, mainly out of nostalgia. It and the Barron flick. Honestly I've read very little of the Mirage run. Liked Image more than I thought I would. IDW's pretty strong, but it has some flaws.

So...favorite part of the Multiverse?

Why did you not mention the 4kids series?

[MikeandRaph87]

I discovered Ninja Turtles through the orginial cartoon and love it to this day. Its the definitive version in my eyes and brought many great characters!I like all of it but I don't care for the black and white comics. Its just not nearly as interesting to me especially the mutilating Image.

[Jester]

Why did you not mention the 4kids series?
Overrated....

It's good for what it was, but not as memorable as the others IMO.

In other words...forgot. :P

[CyberCubed]

Overrated....

It's good for what it was, but not as memorable as the others IMO.

In other words...forgot. :P

I wouldn't say it's overrated at all. It went well above and beyond expectations for a cartoon in general and the sense of continuity, story arcs and fight/action scenes were very well done.

I just got done with my 3rd overall rewatch of the series and it was quite entertaining.

[Cowabunga Carl]

My favorite version would be the Mirage first. I can just keep re-reading it and always get the same level of enjoyment. I'm also very fond of the Archie series of comics though I've only read to issue 30 of that. So the comics are my favorite aspect of the series.

Show wise it would be 4kids, OT & TNM on the same level.

[Jester]

4Kids, OT & TNM on the same level.
Man..that's just wrong...NM doesn't even come close to either series.
:P

[Cowabunga Carl]

4kids I meant was my favorite of the shows and then the OT and TNM on the same level. I think the OT and TNM are both goofy fun. But the OT will always have a special place for me because that's what launched my fandom.

I was a little kid in Cosco with my parents and being little in that store is tough. There isn't anything for a little kid. But they told me if I behaved and was good we'd stop and get a toy. I was trying my hardest to behave too. When we passed the movie section there was a box that had figures with a video. I didn't know what they were but the one I picked up had red and at the time red was my favorite color. I begged my parents for it and I ended up with it. Thus was my fandom born.

[Jester]

4kids I meant was my favorite of the shows and then the OT and TNM on the same level.
That's how I first read it, but I wasn't sure.

Still, the FW series was "smarter" than NM...maybe... :P

EDIT: Cool story. I wish I saw the Figure + VHS when i was a kid. I'm drawing a total blank.

[Cowabunga Carl]

I think TNM would have been improved a lot by just not having the goofy sound affects. That and if it hadn't tried to be a Power Ranger rip off. Heck in the Silver and Gold episode they even make mention of the Power Rangers and how they aren't them.

[FearlessLeader]

I like pretty much every version of Turtles with the exceptions of the Next Mutation and the 3rd film.

My absolute favorite is Mirage, I especially love a lot of the things Jim Lawson did with Leonardo's character within the run of the comic series. Followed closely by the 4Kids series, even though I grew up with and still like the original cartoon I had so many good times associated with making friends and conventions and events that tied around the 4Kids series that it will always hold a special place in my heart.

[CyberCubed]

Sometimes I wish the original cartoon and Archie series could be combined into one universe, as that would be the best of both worlds.

Sure there would be some inconsistencies like two different Leatherheads, but with a little clever rewriting most of the Archie stories could fit in after Season 10. Especially since Krang/Bebop/Rocksteady are barely in Archie anyway.

[Bmaga123]

Having never read the comics I would say the Movies and Original Toon hands down for me. I need to check out the Mirage comics :-)

[FearlessLeader]

Having never read the comics I would say the Movies and Original Toon hands down for me. I need to check out the Mirage comics :-)

You really, really do!

Amazon is selling the collections IDW is putting out for fairly good prices I highly suggest picking them up! :tgrin:

[mysterycolor]

I like pretty much every version of Turtles with the exceptions of the Next Mutation and the 3rd film.


absolutely agree :) however even though i might not "like" all of the versions... i definitely have room in my ♥ for all of them (and any new ones that might come!!) :)

[Kendamu]

While almost every version has something that I really enjoy about it, I'd have to say that at this point the IDW comics are starting to become my favorite. Before that, it was never definitive which was my absolute favorite, but I mainly gravitated toward Mirage Vol. 1, the first movie, and the early episodes of the OT depending on what I was in the mood for.

[Original TMNT Cartoon Fan]

Sure there would be some inconsistencies like two different Leatherheads.

Same with Mondo Gecko

[Mighty Bebop]

I like the OT, but I'm inclined to say the "Movie 1" version, because IMO, it took a lot of the best aspects of the OT and Mirage comics and combined them.

I'd also like to say that I think the original Playmates toy line had such a unique aesthetic that it could practically be considered its own version. If that's the case, then the first few years of action figures (~88-92) is probably my favorite version.

[Bmaga123]

You really, really do!

Amazon is selling the collections IDW is putting out for fairly good prices I highly suggest picking them up! :tgrin:

Thanks for letting me know I am going to go check them out now I want to get the full collection :-)

[Original TMNT Cartoon Fan]

I like the OT, but I'm inclined to say the "Movie 1" version, because IMO, it took a lot of the best aspects of the OT and Mirage comics and combined them.

I'd also like to say that I think the original Playmates toy line had such a unique aesthetic that it could practically be considered its own version. If that's the case, then the first few years of action figures (~88-92) is probably my favorite version.

The movieverse is too small. I wish there could be some spinoff published as comics which would establish more stories (like the Utroms and their home planet, Krang, Technodrome, Dimension X, Bebop and Rocksteady, but more with it's own storyline).

[BAXTER STOCKMAN 19]

While i started watching TMNT in 1996 when the OT was at it end, my favorite version is the 2003 series. I like it more than theOT because it was more serious and violent compared to the kid friendly 1987 series. I hope the Nick cartoon to be similar to 2003 series .

[Jephael]

I'll always love the original cartoon and the Archie comics!

[Powder]

As I said on the first page some months back, it's a hard choice to make. But I think I can say it's the Mirage universe and its extentions.
Volume 3, for example.

[jaymq]

mirage series

[Original TMNT Cartoon Fan]

I'll always love the original cartoon and the Archie comics!

I subscribed a Swedish TMNT magazine including both Archie Comics and UK Hero Turtles Comics.

[SparkyMarky644]

I love the 87 cartoon series and Mirage Comics. But I love the 87 cartoon the best!

[SherlockJr]

The OT, because it's hilarious, and has this cool sci-fi B-movie atmosphere about it that I just like.

[Original TMNT Cartoon Fan]

The OT, because it's hilarious, and has this cool sci-fi B-movie atmosphere about it that I just like.

As a kid, I thought many of these ideas were original.

[pannoni1]

The 1987 Series. This is my first incarnation of TMNT as well as the longest (unless if you count all Mirage Volumes and specials). Watching it every afternoon after school, it was a big part of my childhood. It's what made TMNT famous, plus its the most fun to watch of all incarnations. It is also the most influential version to other parts of the franchise: Archie comics began its TMNT Adventures series by directly adapting the first seven episodes. Konami/Ultra would have been mostly obscure today if it wasn't for the OT as well, which based their classic video games off of this series. It also gave us the Playmates toys that are always a pleasure to collect, display, as well as finding the connections between the OT and the toys. And don't forget the various cel collections that are no longer being made in animation!

[Original TMNT Cartoon Fan]

The 1987 Series. This is my first incarnation of TMNT as well as the longest (unless if you count all Mirage Volumes and specials). Watching it every afternoon after school, it was a big part of my childhood. It's what made TMNT famous, plus its the most fun to watch of all incarnations. It is also the most influential version to other parts of the franchise: Archie comics began its TMNT Adventures series by directly adapting the first seven episodes. Konami/Ultra would have been mostly obscure today if it wasn't for the OT as well, which based their classic video games off of this series. It also gave us the Playmates toys that are always a pleasure to collect, display, as well as finding the connections between the OT and the toys. And don't forget the various cel collections that are no longer being made in animation!

But why did Archie started following the show? Was it first intended to adapt the entire show, or just a way to start a new TMNT universe without needing to create a new background story.

[cryan]

Sorry but I am going with the OT.I didn't know what to make of it back in 1987 but I was hooked.

[magidkaiser]

old toon tmnt

[Lampy]

I grew up watching the OT as well (and like many here, it launched my fandom as well)... but after reading the Mirage comics, they are by far my favorite version of the Turtles. The kid in me begs to differ though.

[Original TMNT Cartoon Fan]

How does it come that almost everybody refers to the 1987 show as their favourite one?

But when I search the Internet for fan fiction based on that show, I have to wait for years or even decades between new stories are even published.

Most people on the Earth still probably just know the 1987 TMNT cartoon, nothing more or less.

[TurtleTitan97]

My favorite is the 2K3 and Mirage universe.

[Shredder_Fan]

I like the 1987 cartoon TV show
and the 2003 cartoon's

And my #1 episode from the 2003 cartoon is "The Shredder Strikes"
from the 1987 cartoon I like the episode "Return of The Technodrome"

[Original TMNT Cartoon Fan]

I like the 1987 cartoon TV show
and the 2003 cartoon's

And my #1 episode from the 2003 cartoon is "The Shredder Strikes"
from the 1987 cartoon I like the episode "Return of The Technodrome"

I loved Return of the Technodrome. Watched it several times.

[ngroove]

Konami/Ultra would have been mostly obscure today if it wasn't for the OT as well, which based their classic video games off of this series.

Konami, along making the Contra and Castlevania series, was also making Arcades for Simpsons, X-Men, and G.I. Joe, as well as Tiny Toon Adventures console video games.

Of course, their Turtles games were pretty good & fun also, personally sentimentally for me, the Turtles arcade, Manhattan Project, SNES Tournament Fighters, and 2003 series first and third games. ULTRA Turtles, well, great music, but frustrating game.

[lKevlKev]

I have to say that the original cartoon is my favorite and still holds a special place in my heart. Going back to in now after all these years, it shows its age, but I still enjoy it and it definitely has its moments.

[Raphael86]

If it's Turtles, I'll watch it, play it or read it (the exception being the Next Mutation).

[Donnie]

Probably Mirage, but right behind it would be Movie 1...I think I flop between the two. They're both the best. After that would be 4Kids, for sure.

[Slap-Happy]

1. Movie 1
2. Mirage
3. Maybe IDW

[Lampy]

I have to say, though, IDW is getting pretty good at combining the aspects that we love about all the incarnations and making it their own... and adding a few twists of their own.

Off-topic: I like the bandages over the knee/elbow pads on IDW. It makes more sense when you think where they got those pads. Not saying that the elbow and knee pads didn't look good though. They were awesome... but the bandages make more sense.

[zkarlette]

I pretty much like every stage of the TMNT, but for some reason right now my favorite could be 4 kids

[Walkabout]

My favourite version of the TMNT is probably "my own", which is a comfortable mix of the 80s cartoon, the playmates toys and art, the first movie and the mirage comics...(from what I saw/have seen) I thought the 2k3 show was awesome but as it came much later in the piece my "turtlevision" was already fully developed when it was on.

[Xav]

4Kids series.

[Keldor1578]

The 4Kids cartoon is my favorite incarnation of tmnt.

[Lethal Lullaby]

They all knock my socks off.

i second that

[Venom]

I find enjoyment out of most incarnations of the Turtles, for each one has something different it brings to the franchise.

Being older, I gravitate more toward the comics. but that doesn't deter my love of any toon/movie/etc. incarnations.

[Sage Ninja]

the classic series is my favorite version of the turtles. I liked the characters and their personalites the best there as well as the over-all show. I've always wanted an updated reboot of the series with a slightly more serious take on the show. Kind of like Mystery Incorporated did for the Scooby Doo cartoon.

[MikeandRaph87]

the classic series is my favorite version of the turtles. I liked the characters and their personalites the best there as well as the over-all show. I've always wanted an updated reboot of the series with a slightly more serious take on the show. Kind of like Mystery Incorporated did for the Scooby Doo cartoon.

Amen to that,Sage! I have always wanted a comic continuation of this version. Instead of tributes and references it would be great to see it continue on in a more serious manner.

[Fugitoid Jones]

I will watch or read anything TMNT related (except maybe the Super Turtles anime). I love the 2 animated series and got some enjoyment out of TNM (not alot, but some), and I'll always love the toys and Archie comics, etc., but I will probably have to say that I usually gravitate towards the first film and Mirage vol.1. If I had to pick a top 2 favorite iterations of the Turtles, it'd be those two.

The 1987 Series. This is my first incarnation of TMNT as well as the longest (unless if you count all Mirage Volumes and specials). Watching it every afternoon after school, it was a big part of my childhood. It's what made TMNT famous, plus its the most fun to watch of all incarnations. It is also the most influential version to other parts of the franchise: Archie comics began its TMNT Adventures series by directly adapting the first seven episodes. Konami/Ultra would have been mostly obscure today if it wasn't for the OT as well, which based their classic video games off of this series. It also gave us the Playmates toys that are always a pleasure to collect, display, as well as finding the connections between the OT and the toys. And don't forget the various cel collections that are no longer being made in animation!

The Playmates toys weren't a byproduct of the OT, they were actually the reason the cartoon came to be. The cartoon was initially made as a way to sell the toys by promoting the property and introducing the characters and vehicles that would be available.

[pescidavid]

It would definitely be the first movie and the original series for me. The first movie blew me away as a kid, and the original series is nothing short of classic. The dialog although often cheesy is very entertaining. That show will always be special to me.

On another note when the 2k3 series first aired i really liked it too and followed it until it was revealed that the shredder wasn't human...It just never sat well with me and I always thought it was a shame because i really liked the show other wise but for what ever reason at the time i just couldn't get past it...i've been meaning to give the show another try again soon just haven't gotten around to it yet.

[ninja pizza]

They all knock my socks off.

I have to agree with this, I think all of the different versions are special to me in their own way.

[Original TMNT Cartoon Fan]

On another note when the 2k3 series first aired i really liked it too and followed it until it was revealed that the shredder wasn't human...It just never sat well with me and I always thought it was a shame because i really liked the show other wise but for what ever reason at the time i just couldn't get past it...i've been meaning to give the show another try again soon just haven't gotten around to it yet.

It actually destroyed the memories from that show for a lot of people.

[Drose18]

2003 for sure. My favorite episode is Prodigal Son.

[Stingray69]

I don't know if I could pick a favorite. I enjoy um all.

[Mutagen]

Definitely the 87 series. In a pill, very unique designs, great 80s excessiveness, memorable characters and pure entertainment. The series became such phenomenon for a reason, and it apparently clicked with a lot of people.

The first two TMNT movies are ok, but anything outside of the 87 series, Archie comics and first 2 movies Im not really a fan of

[1/2Shell]

It has to be the old '87 series for me.

The voice acting and the animation (when it was done well) are really good. You really can't beat Rob Paulsen, Townsend Coleman, Pat Fraley as Krang and James Avery as Shredder. The writing could be brilliant as well. David Wise really worked out some miracle episodes.

Also the music in the 87 cartoon is amazing.

The tongue in cheek aspect of the show is very entertaining. I love the asides like when Shredder asks Krang why they're doing something ridiculous and Krang responds "WE HAVE TO KEEP THE STORY MOVING!!" I know this was ribbed by the creators in "Turtles Forever" but it made the show more fun for me.

My favorite episodes have to be all of Season 1 and 2, and most of Season Three. And Legend of Koji, of course.

I like the Mirage comics and the first movie too.

The 4Kids cartoon, while nicely made, just isn't interesting to me. I know it would irk many younger fans to hear this, but I don't really like it. Although it may be closer to the original concept... It seems too 'edgy' and 'serious', whereas the original show was something really fresh at the time.

[Slade]

Mirage
Movie 1
2k3 Toon
IDW
OT

[Icegaze]

My favourite version of TMNT is the 2k3 version (seasons 1 to 5).
I hope Nick's version will make me change my mind.

[Vegeta]

My inner child tells me ot is the best. The current adult art lover in me likes Mirage (eastman and laird years) best. Seriously, the black and white art is just gorgeous. The IDW collections have been really fun to pick up

[Vegeta]

It has to be the old '87 series for me.


The 4Kids cartoon, while nicely made, just isn't interesting to me. I know it would irk many younger fans to hear this, but I don't really like it. Although it may be closer to the original concept... It seems too 'edgy' and 'serious', whereas the original show was something really fresh at the time.

Yeah I just mentioned this in another thread. I feel the same. It felt like a rehash...and casey jones was butchered.

[Method101]

It will and always will be the original toon series. It was the reason I even watched the 2003 and am excited about the new one. It made TMNT what it is today, as much as people talk down about it because of how campy and corny it was, THAT's what made it big for kids in our generation. The original will always have a special place in my heart.

[Cipher]

Mirage comics by an incredibly large margin. It's the only one that attempts to be more than just an action/comedy series. A lot of it's just stupid fun, but it's had plenty of stories over the years that are downright intelligent, and even the duds reflect the work the (mostly underground) collection of artists were putting in.

I've tried all and enjoyed most other adaptations though.