Tmnt #8 preview

[TomWaltz]

See you all next week!

http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=preview&id=11862

Tom W.

[oldmanwinters]

So many TMNT comics come out so quickly! It's getting hard to keep up!

I try not to read the word bubbles in the previews, but

Did I spot some Neutrions on the last page?

[Killer Moth]

So many TMNT comics come out so quickly! It's getting hard to keep up!

I try not to read the word bubbles in the previews, but

Did I spot some Neutrions on the last page?

I usually try to, because...

Not only is Baxter aware of Apolex's existence, Krang has some knowledge of what is assumed to be the Foot. It answers nicely, "why didn't Baxter just use Hob for retrieving the mutagen," and also asks, "how does the Foot know about the mutagenic compound?"

After seeing Old Hob enjoying the destruction he is wreaking in this issue, anyone else think he'll hook up with Shredder/Bebop/Rocksteady eventually? Because after his latest clash with the Turtles, he'd really fit in with our favorite punks and Apolex.

Frankly, I'd buy it for the Neutrino panel, as them having BFGs against the Stone Warriors? Oh, my.

Excellent preview, and thank you for the link, Mr. Waltz. I'm grateful for them, as I usually just wait to buy the issue, instead. I'm quickly becoming more and more intrigued with this series to indulge in the spoilers, and that's just fine.

[CyberCubed]

Is it just me or is this Duncan's best art yet? Everything looks much better than the first few issues.

Also Krang and Shredder possibly being enemies? I love it!

[ToTheNines]

Wowwww.

Mike getting mauled was awesome!

And those are some interesting revelations going on between Baxter and Krang. I still can't imagine what the hell Krang and Shredder would be enemies for... We know the Foot are fighting the French ninjas, but Krang seems to be just using Earth as a hideaway from his outer space war.

[MikeandRaph87]

Is it just me or is this Duncan's best art yet? Everything looks much better than the first few issues.

Also Krang and Shredder possibly being enemies? I love it!

That is the best part of it all! We saw them as partners and I always wonder what it would be like for them to have a relationship similar to say General Blanque and Prime Leader Zandramon.

The last issue was worth twice the issue price for just one scene and that was the one which showed Krang in the chest compartment of the generic dicator outfit. Last issue when it gave Tragg's name and rank it confirmed the spelling of his name but naming him Captain threw me a little. I am only so familar with miltary ranks and though since Krang is the general than perhaps Brigidier. If not any type of general ranking isn't Luietenant next? So is there someone in command between Tragg and Krang? Hmmm....

[Matches Malone]

Thanks for the preview! Came a bit earlier than usual...

I guess this confirms that the turtles and Old Hob were not only exposed to the super-soldier mutagen, but also the psychotropic serum. I guess that would explain why Leo is starting to see glimpses of his past life as opposed to regaining his past memories in full like Splinter.

I am a little bummed that the Shredder is going to throw in with the mutants right from the get-go, as I like seeing the Foot as a pure ninja clan, at least at first. Still, we'll see how it all shakes out since I'm not opposed to the idea in general. It just seems like it works better as a natural development in the narrative that he will seek out mutants only after seeing the challenge the turtles pose to his foot clan.

[Killer Moth]

Is it just me or is this Duncan's best art yet? Everything looks much better than the first few issues.

Also Krang and Shredder possibly being enemies? I love it!

Indeed. The art looks spiffy.

Once you factor in issue #10's cover along with this issue, it's starting to appear that the comic's first year might end with a battle royale between Krang/Baxter/Old Hob, Shredder/Bebop/Rocksteady and the Turtles. At least, one can hope.

And I'll second what Matches said about the mutant angle with Shredder. The Foot Clan using mutants is fine, but some extra build-up leading Shredder to go there as a tactic would have been more preferable. (Or, we may get that, anyway, via a flashback or one-shot issue.)

[TomWaltz]

Thanks for the preview! Came a bit earlier than usual...

I guess this confirms that the turtles and Old Hob were not only exposed to the super-soldier mutagen, but also the psychotropic serum. I guess that would explain why Leo is starting to see glimpses of his past life as opposed to regaining his past memories in full like Splinter.

I am a little bummed that the Shredder is going to throw in with the mutants right from the get-go, as I like seeing the Foot as a pure ninja clan, at least at first. Still, we'll see how it all shakes out since I'm not opposed to the idea in general. It just seems like it works better as a natural development in the narrative that he will seek out mutants only after seeing the challenge the turtles pose to his foot clan.

You may be on to something here, Matches Malone...

;)

[ToTheNines]

I also loved how Raph still wants to kill Hob, I'd like to see him get his way.

Tom, the way Baxter talks, it seems like the Foot Clan made off with some goods after their break-in from #2/3. But in the actual issues, it looks like they lost all the loot down the sewer. What's the deal?

[DarkLightDragon]

I also loved how Raph still wants to kill Hob, I'd like to see him get his way.

Tom, the way Baxter talks, it seems like the Foot Clan made off with some goods after their break-in from #2/3. But in the actual issues, it looks like they lost all the loot down the sewer. What's the deal?


I don't think that was the Foot's first time stealing some of the serums. True they lost the serums in #2 and #3 but then, how do you explain Alopex? They must've been able to obtain some of the goods before those issues for mutating her. Though you could argue why Stockgen didn't update their security after a few thefts.

[TomWaltz]

I also loved how Raph still wants to kill Hob, I'd like to see him get his way.

Tom, the way Baxter talks, it seems like the Foot Clan made off with some goods after their break-in from #2/3. But in the actual issues, it looks like they lost all the loot down the sewer. What's the deal?

Mwahahahaha!!!

[ToTheNines]

Mwahahahaha!!!

Your evil laugh further supports my theory that Baxter is actually working for Shredder.

[MikeandRaph87]

Your evil laugh further supports my theory that Baxter is actually working for Shredder.

Or that Tom took the loot!:D


One thing we don't know yet for sure is does the mutagen affect animals and make them humaniod or can a human become animal-like. The rock soliders seemed to be humans that were experimented on but was it the mutagen like what was used on the TMNT,Splinter,Hob, and Apolex?

[DarkLightDragon]

Your evil laugh further supports my theory that Baxter is actually working for Shredder.


That works too. Maybe better than what I said.

[Oculus Orbus]

Nice.

There's definitely an improvement in the art (Mikey being attacked was fantastic), and it looks like we'll be having some big revelations soon. I'm not too sure if I liked seeing Neutrinos, I guess I'll just have to wait and see.

[azrael]

I also loved how Raph still wants to kill Hob, I'd like to see him get his way.

Tom, the way Baxter talks, it seems like the Foot Clan made off with some goods after their break-in from #2/3. But in the actual issues, it looks like they lost all the loot down the sewer. What's the deal?

I bet Baxter's double dipping

[Toby Barrett]

Ah man, Duncan's art is incredible in this issue! His best yet, I think.
I've been looking forward to this one since the previews came out! Love all the action and information we're being given!

PS: It's also nice how Raphael's sai are drawn like real sai and not stabby daggers! haha!

[pihb]

Art looks awesome. loved Donnie's Line from the original movie about the bus

[Dirty Blond]

Raphael's sai are drawn like real sai and not stabby daggers! haha!

Thanks for pointing that out. (Pun unintended.) I have always wondered why his weapons have been depicted like that in the many versions of TMNT.

[MikeandRaph87]

Krang's quote in the preview makes me wonder what willl happen to Baxter Stockman this time. Forced to be a test subject in something and then becomes something that is not human. Not saying a fly maybe just a brain in a jar or something never seen before. Death certainly is not an option.

[BAXTER STOCKMAN 19]

WOW! i cant wait for it! Krang and Shredder being ememies is nothing new. It was done in a few episodes on the OT, but at the end they always were becomign friends again. Now it seems that in this new seires they are enemies from the begining. Let see if this will change

[Killer Moth]

Krang's quote in the preview makes me wonder what willl happen to Baxter Stockman this time. Forced to be a test subject in something and then becomes something that is not human. Not saying a fly maybe just a brain in a jar or something never seen before. Death certainly is not an option.

At least, this version is upfront on what happens if "you fail me," not unlike Utrom Shredder with Baxter. And it is the first time IDW Baxter stops being smug, so it really works.

Two weird questions to ask, but...

1. Is anyone else amused with Baxter drinking scotch in front of Krang? Nice to see another alcoholic beverage in the comic side of the franchise, besides the occasional beer. Hope it isn't his last..., if he fails in his mission.

2. Anyone else think of Elvis with that Neutrino in the white apparel, shooting away?

[Donnie]

I hope Mikey's okay after that!

Preview looks great as usual, things are picking up full swing now! Can't wait!

[Jester]

I like what I see.
* Krang calls earth a mud ball. Classic! Well played, Mr. Waltz.
* Neutrinos...I guess I can live with them. (Is it sad that I had a scare after seeing them in that panel that maybe the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in the new movie were from an non-turtle, alien race...what if the TMNT in the new movie are Teenage Mutant Neutrino Turtles?
* I am pretty sure that Baxter is double dipping. And why not, if there's money in it. Develop the stuff for Krang and Shredder. Get paid by both sides. Life is good

[Rooish]

Very awesome preview.

Why would injured Donnie try to help his brothers in outright battle, though, and send able-bodied Mikey out of the action with Splinter? Why didn't Don try to take Splinter away?

[Mutant_Hero_Turtle95]

That was a great preview I hope they make it out alive. Plus I love how the designs are and the coloring and how the storys going its soo amazing keep up the good work!!!:tgrin:

[TonySiegel]

Hopefully this issue lives up to the hype...

[CyberCubed]

Yeah you can really tell the main plot is starting to heat up.

The Foot is right around the corner and I love that Krang is getting more aggressive. I definitely see Baxter and Hob falling out with Krang and perhaps joining Shredder or going solo.

Hopefully we get to see Leatherhead or Slash if we have to have more mutants. Might as well introduce the ones everyone likes.

[Andrew NDB]

Can't say that I'm in love with the idea of Shredder being in "a war" with anyone, but from the way Krang is talking at least it sounds like it's a "war" with some other faction on Earth. If it's like competition to the Foot Clan or something, then that wouldn't be too weird.

Preview looks exciting.

[ToTheNines]

Can't say that I'm in love with the idea of Shredder being in "a war" with anyone, but from the way Krang is talking at least it sounds like it's a "war" with some other faction on Earth. If it's like competition to the Foot Clan or something, then that wouldn't be too weird.

Preview looks exciting.

He's gotta be at war with the Savate Ninjas, right?

[TomWaltz]

An advance review here (which contains a few spoilers -- you have been warned!):

http://www.freakinawesomenetwork.com/2012/03/advanced-review-tmnt-8/

See you tomorrow, friends!

Tom W.

[Oculus Orbus]

Not reading that until tomorrow, but thanks for sharing!

[1984TMNT]

An advance review here (which contains a few spoilers -- you have been warned!):

http://www.freakinawesomenetwork.com/2012/03/advanced-review-tmnt-8/

See you tomorrow, friends!

Tom W.

Great stuff. Thanks for sharing, Tom. It keeps getting better and better.

[Shreddhead]

Ugh, i hate reading the previews but i just couldnt resist this time. Things are really looking great! Krang looks like he's gonna be some sort of alien form dimension X(what with his lack of drinking), some badass neutrinos with oozies fighting rock soldiers in dimension x, and shredder and Krang at odds - Isnt that how the best relationships start :)

Tomorrow is gonna be a good day.

[Mutant_Hero_Turtle95]

Im gonna wait till tommarow to read the whole issue. No advanced preview for me.:tgrin:

[ToTheNines]

Krang looks like he's gonna be some sort of alien form dimension X(what with his lack of drinking)

You didn't read #7 did you?

[oldmanwinters]

Tonight, the Mousers dine...
http://fc08.deviantart.net/fs71/f/2012/087/b/e/tmnt_8_04_by_dan_duncan-d4u986x.jpg (http://dan-duncan.deviantart.com/art/TMNT-8-04-292683705)

http://dan-duncan.deviantart.com/art/TMNT-8-04-292683705

On Turtle Soup!

Couresty of Dan Duncan (http://dan-duncan.deviantart.com/)

[Shreddhead]

You didn't read #7 did you?

Wow, i COMPLETELY forgot (Slaps face). i read it the day it came out but havent picked it up since. My B

[Rise1184]

Today is the day.. Can't wait to pick mine up!

[Redeemer]

Picked up this issue today and it was awesome!!!!!!!!

[The Fifth Turtle]

Sheldon Cooper got himself a copy too!

[ToTheNines]

Great great issue. Don's strategy was cool, and Mikey made me laugh pretty good (which was great, because he kind of annoyed me last issue). I'm glad April finally met the guys lol, loved the "Turtle Tracks" dialogue easter egg there.

Only gripe is how the guys acted a little too calm after Splinter turned up missing. I guess I'm just spoiled by that scene from the first movie when the guys come back from April's and find him gone. Gets me every time.

Only 3 weeks till "Leonardo", can't wait to see how the Foot plays into all of this.

[Master Splinter]

This was a pretty amazing issue. As far as continuity goes, does #9 come before Leonardo or Leo before #9?

-ms

[Ninjinister]

[QUOTE=Shreddhead;929682] Krang looks like he's gonna be some sort of alien form dimension X(what with his lack of drinking),

Does that make me an alien?

[MikeandRaph87]

Great great issue. Don's strategy was cool, and Mikey made me laugh pretty good (which was great, because he kind of annoyed me last issue). I'm glad April finally met the guys lol, loved the "Turtle Tracks" dialogue easter egg there.

Only gripe is how the guys acted a little too calm after Splinter turned up missing. I guess I'm just spoiled by that scene from the first movie when the guys come back from April's and find him gone. Gets me every time.

These are my thoughts but I liked Krang's referring to Earth as a "mudball" as well.

I am glad to see Krang get the attention he has lacked for so long. It brings interesting possiblities to the table.

When reading the letter column about Hob keeping Klunk from showing up made me think what if Klunk helps the guys by beating Hob in a future appearance and a little "klunk" sound effect on Hob thanks to Klunk beats him? :twink: Silly idea I know.

[oldmanwinters]

So are we gonna have the issue discussion here or start a new thread?

Anyhoo...

I'm so glad IDW kept the tradition of "April fainting when first seeing the Turtles" intact!

This issue just felt so intense to read! I was on the edge of my seat the whole time!

My only complaint is that my LCS was sold out of the awesome Kevin Eastman variant cover by the time I got there. :tgrumble:

I was tempted to pay a dollar more for the Simon Gane variant, but I decided to go economical and nab the Dan Duncan cover, per my usual practice.

[DonatelloFan]

My local comic book shop never gets anything other than the A and B covers, so I'm stuck to getting the RI covers on eBay (sad face...). But today, I got both A and B covers. And I set up an account at the shop to get the Turtles issue every month guaranteed. Now I don't have to go to eBay for even the most basic cover.

Anyway, I liked the issue. A lot going on. I'm so pumped to the build up to Shredder. The little comments here and there, as well as Raphael's issue, oh man, I can't WAIT!!!

Finally, 8 issues in (11 counting one-shots), April sees the Turtles. Issue 9 is going to kick ass (just look at the preview cover in the back). Searching for Splinter, Hob and Stockman, Kraang, the issue BEFORE Shredder appears (maybe he'll appear at the end of #9), and April waking up...

I'm liking the comics, something I've never been in to, and plan to continue to read and to try getting the RI variants (the ones I like anyway).

[ToTheNines]

How awesome were those two pages where each turtle had his own panel right after the "flank 'em" "and spank em!" page?

Like you guys said before, this might be Duncan's best drawn issue yet (other than Mike looking super weird when April walks in). Anyone notice where Casey and April were having coffee? That was funny.



Krang looks like he's gonna be some sort of alien form dimension X(what with his lack of drinking),

Does that make me an alien?

So that's what Michael Bay meant. These new movie turtles won't drink beer!

[Powder]

Last few issues I felt I had more bad than good to say, this time that's not the case. No groans courtesy the dialogue, and the pacing felt good.
My only complaint would be the over-use of father. I love that they call him that, but they sounded like 1950's children.
Fantastic turtle profile art, too.

[DonatelloFan]

My only complaint would be the over-use of father. I love that they call him that, but they sounded like 1950's children. Fantastic turtle profile art, too.

I felt the same way. It seemed like, in a few page span, they said it every other sentence.

[oldmanwinters]

the over-use of father. I love that they call him that, but they sounded like 1950's children.


Heh, I was getting that vibe too!

But, I think it works well for this particular continuity.

[ToTheNines]

My only complaint would be the over-use of father. I love that they call him that, but they sounded like 1950's children.

Lol yeah, I've personally always preferred them to call him "Master Splinter" or "Sensei" and just call him "father" while directly speaking to him.

[DrSpengler]

Here's my review of TMNT (IDW) #8 at TMNT Entity! (http://tmntentity.blogspot.com/2012/03/tmnt-idw-8.html)

Really liked this one, particularly the hint at potential mental instabilities for the Turtles somewhere down the line (or maybe we've already seen some).

Very ominous.

[Dirty Blond]

they sounded like 1950's children.

Except, of course, they're 1550's children!

:teek:

[DonatelloFan]

Except, of course, they're 1550's children!

:teek:

I always have to tell when I chuckle out loud at a post (which doesn't happen that often). And this, I actually laughed out loud.

[Redeemer]

I cant wait to see this Ninja War!!!!! From what Ive heard about City at War from the original comic series it sounds like IDW is actually making a true Ninja war. Cant wait considering how great people say City at War was!!!

[Powder]

I always have to tell when I chuckle out loud at a post (which doesn't happen that often). And this, I actually laughed out loud.

Gotta say I did too.

[Jester]

Spengs, as I said in the comments on the review (great work as always, by the way) April's "I can't deal with this..." line is actually from her introduction in TMNT #2. She says "I can't handle this..." in the FW episode.

[Stefano]

I really liked the issue, but I had some moments that threw me off. I didn't feel that all the characters reacted naturally to their situation. For instance, Mikey was getting chomped dropping splinter, then next scene he is totally fine fighting with his brothers leaving splinter behind. Donny waking up seemed odd to me as well as their seemingly underwhelmed response to splinter gone missing.

Having said that I love where this series is going!!

[CyberCubed]

I don't have the issue yet, but did Mike say, "Can we keep her?" in regards to April? Maybe next issue?

[oldmanwinters]

I don't have the issue yet, but did Mike say, "Can we keep her?" in regards to April? Maybe next issue?

Nope, the closest thing was Raph's "We'll be back, Cute Girl."

That's something you kinda figure Mike would say. I almost thought it was a coloring mistake on the mask when I read it. Nice to see that Raph's personality isn't one-note hothead in this IDW series.

[Raph's Girl]

Loved this issue!! The Neutrino shown...was that Zak?! Same hairstyle as him!

Glad that April finally got to meet the turtles, even if it was brief. Also loved her complaining about the sewer. *lol*

Oh and Alopex! Yay!!

I chuckled a bit when Krang refered to Scotch as "fancy booze" :lol:

[TheJ-manTurtleMan]

Did anyone else notice that in one of the panels Leonardo's mask is red? At least it is in the three comics I have.

[BAXTER STOCKMAN 19]

Did anyone else notice that in one of the panels Leonardo's mask is red? At least it is in the three comics I have.

yes i noticed that. Awesome issue! Cant wait till they the next one! I am looking forward to see how Krang will punish Stockman!

[Matches Malone]

yes i noticed that. Awesome issue! Cant wait till they the next one! I am looking forward to see how Krang will punish Stockman!

No need to wonder. Krang said he would kill him he failed. Also, he didn't fail. Old Hob captured Splinter.

[Candy Kappa]

probably have to wait nearly a month until it comes my way, if I'm lucky. Since it seems like my store only gets every second issue...

[MikeandRaph87]

probably have to wait nearly a month until it comes my way, if I'm lucky. Since it seems like my store only gets every second issue...

Do you have a pull list? If I did not get it on my pull list I would not be able to pick it up at my shop. Most non-DC/Marvel in my LCS are handled that way. I suggest you ask the owner of your shop or whoever is there to make a pull list for you. That way if its in you know you got it and its right there behind the counter.:tsmile:

This is issue is making me wonder who Krang's rival is and Shredder's. Could it be that the Nuetrios or at least the people of Planet Nuetrino are his rival that he referenced or someone else? Shredder is at war but with who? Is it Splinter or someone we have not met? Shredder and Kranf are at odds but not at war with each other at least not yet.

[Jephael]

My only complaint would be the over-use of father. I love that they call him that, but they sounded like 1950's children.

I kind of like it that they call him Father. They're supposed to be reincarnations of children from ancient Japan, so when you think about it, maybe that old-school dialogue is sort of like a subconcious memory of how they behaved back then.

[Venom]

Nope, the closest thing was Raph's "We'll be back.Cute girl."

Just wanted to clarify the dialogue. I thought it was a comma at first, too, but at second glance noticed it was a period and Raph was passing an acknowledgement of April to Casey. :tsmile:

[CyberCubed]

I like this Raphael. He doesn't need to be constantly grouchy and angry, which was a major flaw with 4kids Raph.

In fact dare I say it, he could go the route of Rob Paulsen's Raphael and wind up more of a wise cracker.

[ToTheNines]

IGN review: http://comics.ign.com/articles/122/1221896p1.html

Only gave it a 7, but his actual review was good.

[TomWaltz]

Thanks for so many kind words, everyone! (Even Powder had a few pleasantries for this issue... amazing. :roll: )

Can't wait for you all to see #9... not to mention the AWESOME Leonardo one-shot!

Until then, take care!

Talk soon...

Tom W.

[Powder]

Hey now, I always have something good to say about the art. :)

[azrael]

I am really enjoying this book! The coloring seem to work better in these past few issues. Its not my story I would have done but I sure as hell am loving it. I hope if the new movie doesnt go the way of Mirage that it has been keeping an eye on IDW.

[MikeandRaph87]

Thanks for so many kind words, everyone! (Even Powder had a few pleasantries for this issue... amazing. :roll: )

Can't wait for you all to see #9... not to mention the AWESOME Leonardo one-shot!

Until then, take care!

Talk soon...

Tom W.

Of it all I think its the characterization that stands out the best in your plots. Kudos on that. That is why I pointed out the guy in my signature who is eager to see characterization.:D

[oldmanwinters]

Just wanted to clarify the dialogue. I thought it was a comma at first, too, but at second glance noticed it was a period and Raph was passing an acknowledgement of April to Casey. :tsmile:

Yeah, I intentionally capitalized "Cute Girl," which makes the brain assume a new sentence started.

In traditional comic book style, IDW letters capitalize all words, so sometimes emphasis can be ambiguous.

My thinking was that Raph's mind was too preoccupied with all the craziness happening around him to be bothered to actually remember April's name. Thus, "Cute Girl" became his temporary name for her.

[OrsonZedd]

So ah, just a question and observation:

Stockman, rats are 1 dollar each at the pet store and you had all of 1. Wow, just, wow, you DESERVE whatever Krang or Shredder or you accidentally do to yourself.

Actually I'm surprised that the writers forgot that part. This stockman doesn't really seem like the idiotball carrying type. Stockman should have had thousands of rats injected with a psychotropic drug. That he only has one is fine; perhaps they all died except for Splinter (then of course one wonders why they didn't clone Splinter or at least breed him). But I'm really surprised that didn't get a mention and actually more Surprised at Krang for not bringing it up.

Although, this may be information both of them already know, and so they don't feel it important to bring it up.

[Raven]

Awesome new issue!

Its been a long time since I have found myself this excited for a Ninja Turtles comic. I was almost in pure agony yesterday waiting for this issue. Alas it was worth the wait.

The only negative I really had with this issue was that Turtles and other characters seemed slightly unfazed by the events that where occurring. But thats not to say I didn't enjoy this issue, it was fun and exciting and kept me on my toes!

Dan's art was a joy like always! Cant wait for the next issue!

[Raven]

Just found this!

http://www.newsarama.com/comics/wednesday-watch-must-reads-120326-1.html

You guys made it onto the must read list!

[Killer Moth]

Just found this!

http://www.newsarama.com/comics/wednesday-watch-must-reads-120326-1.html

You guys made it onto the must read list!

Lucky seven. Yay.

I read the issue, but I'll form my thoughts later, except one thing to say about April...

Apparently, it's a franchise tradition for April to always faint when first meeting the Turtles. I checked TMNT Entity's review of Mirage issue #2, as to sure (yes, she did):

http://tmntentity.blogspot.com/2010/02/tmnt-vol-1-2.html

I haven't watched the 2003 series in a while, so I'd appreciate it if someone would refresh my memory about whether 2003 April fainted upon meeting the Turtles, as well.

Speaking of TMNT Entity, propers for the issue #8 review and its "Power Glove" reference. Looked awesome, but it was a pain to use it.

[MikeandRaph87]

Lucky seven. Yay.

I read the issue, but I'll form my thoughts later, except one thing to say about April...

Apparently, it's a franchise tradition for April to always faint when first meeting the Turtles. I checked TMNT Entity's review of Mirage issue #2, as to sure (yes, she did):

http://tmntentity.blogspot.com/2010/02/tmnt-vol-1-2.html

I haven't watched the 2003 series in a while, so I'd appreciate it if someone would refresh my memory about whether 2003 April fainted upon meeting the Turtles, as well.

Speaking of TMNT Entity, propers for the issue #8 review and its "Power Glove" reference. Looked awesome, but it was a pain to use it.

She did and Mike said "Can we keep her?" at the very end of the episode as he catches her.

[Mutant_Hero_Turtle95]

The issue was really good. I wanna know whats gonna happen next. I hope shredder makes a small appearance in issue 9.

[TonySiegel]

Skimmed over it gently (reminiscent of rocko's modern life "turn the page, wash your hands"). Aesthetically and story wise, the issue looks cool. Still want to see the turtles treading new ground, feels like we've heard this story before in different continuities (minor gripes). Still haven't read it so let me not be so critical...

Another panel with a miscolored bandana?!!!! Should've kept them all red to avoid such issues... Seriously, hire a rabid turtle fan to find mistakes and to look over the finished issue prior to printing them. Ehh, whatever its only a comic...

[ToTheNines]

Seriously, hire a rabid turtle fan to find mistakes and to look over the finished issue prior to printing them.

:lol: I actually offered Bobby to proof-read the pages with turtles in them for free.

[Coola Yagami]

Awesome issue, though wow... quite a way to meet April. "Hey guys this is.." "No time for random cute girls now dude, we gotta go rescue our dad, cya". It was so abrupt, I wonder if she'll even remember it when she wakes up. And wow... based on the cover it seems they'll run right into the Foot while they hunt down Hob...

And YES, extra bonus point for me. I got my fan letter printed. XD

[CyberCubed]

My only gripe is the Turtles aren't going to be attacked by the Foot first before going after them. I know Leo gets attacked by them in his micro but its not done beforehand since they're purposely going to rescue Splinter now.

[Coola Yagami]

But they're NOT going after the Foot. They're going after Hob. It just seems they'll happen to cross paths with the Foot on their way to chase Hob down (most likely based on Apolex's info on Raph).

[Donnie]

Great issue! Loved the 2 page 4-blocked Turtles smashing the sh*t out of the mousers. Had me going from start to finish!

I wonder if Mikey is going to feel like it was his fault that Splinter got taken, or one of the other Turtles are gonna blame him for it.

I just wish they were longer, waiting a month is so hard lol I want more, NOW!

[Raph'N'Roll]

I was really enjoying this series until the mention of Neutrinos a couple of issues back:trolleye:,
I absolutely hated those characters with a passion 23 years ago and nothing has changed, please let it be that only the name is being used as a throwback to the old toon.

Why couldn't a new alien race be created instead for the story?
It just seems a bit lazy, I mean Planet Neutrino?
We don't call Earth planet Human?

They were one of the worst, most cringe worthy aspects of the old toon, I just can't believe they are being used again, hopefully they'll just be a story tool to show how evil(brilliant) Krang is when he wipes them all out(fingers crossed).

[DarkLightDragon]

I wonder if Mikey is going to feel like it was his fault that Splinter got taken, or one of the other Turtles are gonna blame him for it.



I could understand Mikey having some guilt for not being able to protect his father, but I'm more curious as to how/if this will affect Leo, Raph and Don.

I'm willing to bet Donnie and Raph are going to grill Leo for stopping Raph from killing Hob when they had the chance back in #4.

[ToTheNines]

I just wish they were longer, waiting a month is so hard lol I want more, NOW!

Less than 3 weeks till the Leo micro :tthumbsu:

[Andrew NDB]

I guess I didn't have any strong feelings about #8 either way. This one seemed to be treading water a bit, and I'm bored with the Mousers already.

I liked how Ronda Pattison added in the spark effects/filters to the Mousers getting smashed. That was a nice, modern touch.

[Donnie]

I could understand Mikey having some guilt for not being able to protect his father, but I'm more curious as to how/if this will affect Leo, Raph and Don.

I'm willing to bet Donnie and Raph are going to grill Leo for stopping Raph from killing Hob when they had the chance back in #4.

I think they're setting up at least one exchange with the other brothers blaming Mikey, cause as they were fighting Don & Leo specifically told Mikey to keep looking for Splinter, cause he had him last.

That's a good point about Don & Raph ganging up on Leo for that decision, I wouldn't doubt it. I think that'd be cool.

[BentonGrey]

I read the issue recently and thoroughly enjoyed it. The folks at IDW have more than justified my choice to stick around. I love the direction they're going, I love their re-imagining of many of the cartoon's characters, and I like the possibilities of the world they're creating. :tsmile:

I was really enjoying this series until the mention of Neutrinos a couple of issues back:trolleye:,
I absolutely hated those characters with a passion 23 years ago and nothing has changed, please let it be that only the name is being used as a throwback to the old toon.

Why couldn't a new alien race be created instead for the story?
It just seems a bit lazy, I mean Planet Neutrino?
We don't call Earth planet Human?

They were one of the worst, most cringe worthy aspects of the old toon, I just can't believe they are being used again, hopefully they'll just be a story tool to show how evil(brilliant) Krang is when he wipes them all out(fingers crossed).

Ohh come on man, I think you're overreacting just a bit. Are the Neutrinos of the original series pretty tough to go back and watch? You bet. Still, as a kid I thought they were pretty cool (a lapse in judgement I still wonder about, but I digress), and that's true for many people. One of the things this series is doing, and doing very well I'd say, is to bring in elements from that original 'toon and adapt them to a more serious world and a more serious story. That doesn't mean that everything they nod to is going to become a major story element, nor does it mean that the goofier bits of the original ideas will necessarily reemerge here.

In fact, from what we've seen so far, the opposite seems to be the case. I mean, honestly, what have we actually seen concerning the Neutrinos so far? 1) Krang is fighting them, and we've seen only hints of them. 2) In those brief hints, they're holding guns, fighting, and dying, all in relatively grim fashion. 3) They seem to look vaguely like the Neutrinos of the original 'toon, but only in-so-much as they are recognizable as being nods in that direction. 4) We've yet to see any Hot Rodding Teenagers from Dimension X that inexplicably look like 50's Greasers, and I rather doubt we will. Why not create a new alien race? Because these types of little nods are fun for a lot of folks. You hate the Neutrinos,and that's understandable, but I'd say don't get too worked up about it. Ha, for what it's worth, though, it wouldn't break my heart of Krang wipes them out.:twink:

Also, as to your comment about "Planet Neutrino," remember, in most science fiction alien races tend to refer to the inhabitants of the planet "Earth" as "Earthlings." That makes just as much sense as "Neutrinos."

[Andrew NDB]

Ohh come on man, I think you're overreacting just a bit. Are the Neutrinos of the original series pretty tough to go back and watch? You bet. Still, as a kid I thought they were pretty cool

I don't think I ever thought they were cool, even when I was like 6. I seem to remember finding them irritating.

Still, they only seem to exist here in the IDW TMNT to get slaughtered... so I'm fine with that. It's when a loveable, hipster Neutrino or two joins the supporting cast that the Fred Wolf smell will edge toward intolerability.

[Donnie]

Tom has said he isn't going to use the Neutrinos like they were used in the cartoon...which I agree, they sucked. But in that panel where they're shown they're shooting guns. They're probably just going to be a badass race of resistants with pointy ears. Sounds sick to me!

[MikeandRaph87]

Tom has said he isn't going to use the Neutrinos like they were used in the cartoon...which I agree, they sucked. But in that panel where they're shown they're shooting guns. They're probably just going to be a badass race of resistants with pointy ears. Sounds sick to me!

The episode "Four Turtles And a Baby" showed the Neutrio rulers to be just older versions of the trio of teenagers. If we think in terms of the Neutrios beyond that episode especially as they decribe their race in "Hot Rodding Teenagers From Dimension X" this would fit and would be cooler seeing a war-like race as they were originally described. I agree with the majority that the cahracter set of Neutrioes were not very interesting but I do think like some characters if reworked can be a great character or character set. What if General Blanque was their dictator? The Neutrios were human-like and Blanque and his people from D'Hoonib were humans from another planet. That would be really interesting and working pre-established characters together.

[Raven]

Awesome issue, though wow... quite a way to meet April. "Hey guys this is.." "No time for random cute girls now dude, we gotta go rescue our dad, cya". It was so abrupt, I wonder if she'll even remember it when she wakes up. And wow...

Thats exactly how I felt, it just came across to rushed.

[Raph'N'Roll]

BentonGrey:Ohh come on man, I think you're overreacting just a bit.

Maybe so, but It's just the thought of those characters being a part of the TMNT universe again fills me with dread.
It feels like they're being used just for the sake of an old toon reference.

Andrew NDB: don't think I ever thought they were cool, even when I was like 6. I seem to remember finding them irritating

Exactly how I felt, they irritated the crap out of me.

Michelangelo:Tom has said he isn't going to use the Neutrinos like they were used in the cartoon...which I agree, they sucked. But in that panel where they're shown they're shooting guns. They're probably just going to be a badass race of resistants with pointy ears. Sounds sick to me!

Well I suppose that's some relief, but as the characters were so awful to begin with, why not just create some new ones instead.
Even the name Neutrino itself sounds dated and cheesy, like it belongs in an episode of the Jetsons.
Personally I would have liked to see the Triceratons used somehow instead.

[CyberCubed]

Why the heck are you complaining about the Neutrinos being used over the Triceratons when you know they didn't replace them?

Likewise do you even know what the definition of Neutrino stands for? How can something like that be dated?

[oldmanwinters]

This one seemed to be treading water a bit, and I'm bored with the Mousers already.

That's an interesting point you make about the Mousers. A while back, I was trying to figure out just how many times Mousers have appeared in TMNT media, and I realized they are only featured in a handful of issues, especially if you don't count the Archie adaptation of the Fred Wolf cartoon. In the Mirage Universe, I don't think they appeared in more than 3 issues. They make a small number of appearances in the 4Kids cartoon, but even a few of those appearances were the upgraded and biological versions.

The point I'm trying to make is that Mousers used to be a familiar, yet rarely used staple of the TMNT "rouges gallery." And yet we've already seen them in 3 straight issues of the IDW comics! That's a run that is pretty much unprecedented. Hence, I can understand how some fans might already be burnt out on Mousers.

I wonder if Tom and the IDW Turtles team plan to keep using the little critters in the future or make them more-or-less disappearance after the conclusion of this current arc.

[ToTheNines]

I'd like to see Krang using them for his war, but I'd rather them not fight the turtles for a good long while.

[Valtus3200]

I'm not entirely certain about the Neutrino element in the series, but then, I'm sure they're being kept at a distance for a reason. I love mostly everything about this issue, but the action did seem less impacting than I would have liked. I think there was some perspective issues too... but, that's only a minor gripe.

The rest is great, and I look forward to the Leo Micro in a few weeks.

[Redeemer]

Hey guys I know this is a stupid question, but how do u get on Ninja Notes????

[Jester]

Hey guys I know this is a stupid question, but how do u get on Ninja Notes????
I sent an e-mail.

[CyberCubed]

Well the Mouser story is going on for 3-4 issues simply because IDW only has 22 pages of story material allotted to each issue. Mirage #2 was what...like 40 pages?

[TonySiegel]

Well the Mouser story is going on for 3-4 issues simply because IDW only has 22 pages of story material allotted to each issue. Mirage #2 was what...like 40 pages?

the series is definitely gaining a feeling of being cramped... the first arc, issue #1 til raph reunites with his family felt much more richer. would more pages equal a greater justifiable connection with the story being told?

[interest with series waning :ohwell: ]

[AcidBurn30]

HELL YEAH!!! keep them up!!! i see a cool art you did for a new idea of a tattoo i want to do.. :D

[Venom]

Hey guys I know this is a stupid question, but how do u get on Ninja Notes????

I replied to the "Ninja Notes" thread on the IDW Forums.

Be sure to mark your message and "OK to print".

[Coola Yagami]

Some of you guys are ruining the experience for yourselves. How can you be burnt out on the Mousers??? They were the ‘big reveal’ of the end of one issue, the main focus on another issue in which the cliffhanger has Don and Splinter down with Leo trying desperately to fend them off by himself, and this issue which has them destroyed. What the hell? It’s like having some new guy show up and about to face Leo for a cliffhanger, and already people saying ‘I’m burned out by this guy’. What did you expect issue 8 to be about…? Leo surrounded by Mousers… oh wait.. they all vanished and now they’re suddenly in space fighting a cyborg Tommy Wiseau??

Sit back and enjoy the comic for what it is. What do you guys want to do? Have issue 9 be an all-out battle with Shredder, Rat King, Slash, Bebop, Rocksteady, the Mighty Mutinamals with extra back up from Casey, Renet, the Justice Force and Usagi with a special cameo of Savage Dragon and the Power Rangers? It’s like you guys just want them to play all their cards right away, but what would you guys have then?

[TonySiegel]

Some of you guys are ruining the experience for yourselves. How can you be burnt out on the Mousers??? They were the ‘big reveal’ of the end of one issue, the main focus on another issue in which the cliffhanger has Don and Splinter down with Leo trying desperately to fend them off by himself, and this issue which has them destroyed. What the hell? It’s like having some new guy show up and about to face Leo for a cliffhanger, and already people saying ‘I’m burned out by this guy’. What did you expect issue 8 to be about…? Leo surrounded by Mousers… oh wait.. they all vanished and now they’re suddenly in space fighting a cyborg Tommy Wiseau??

Sit back and enjoy the comic for what it is. What do you guys want to do? Have issue 9 be an all-out battle with Shredder, Rat King, Slash, Bebop, Rocksteady, the Mighty Mutinamals with extra back up from Casey, Renet, the Justice Force and Usagi with a special cameo of Savage Dragon and the Power Rangers? It’s like you guys just want them to play all their cards right away, but what would you guys have then?

The information age has spoiled us, so how can you blame us?!!! :lol:

[Donnie]

Don't get the hate for the mousers. I think seeing the IDW Turtles battle them was sick. My only gripe with the issue is that first we see Mikey practically getting mauled by them, and then next he's just fighting with his bros and Splinter's gone. I would have liked to see Mikey get out of that crazy horde attack!

[CyberCubed]

I suppose people are eager to see the Turtles fight the Foot which is why some (well, one person really), is complaining about the Mouser story still going.

I see no problem.

[oldmanwinters]

Don't get the hate for the mousers. I think seeing the IDW Turtles battle them was sick. My only gripe with the issue is that first we see Mikey practically getting mauled by them, and then next he's just fighting with his bros and Splinter's gone. I would have liked to see Mikey get out of that crazy horde attack!

Yeah, I figured Mikey was about to lose a few non-vital organs by the end of the issue!

[MikeandRaph87]

Don't get the hate for the mousers. I think seeing the IDW Turtles battle them was sick. My only gripe with the issue is that first we see Mikey practically getting mauled by them, and then next he's just fighting with his bros and Splinter's gone. I would have liked to see Mikey get out of that crazy horde attack!

I think its the fact that while its one story and pretty much a day for the characters its a four issue story which takes three months to tell. Its just the lag of storyarcs that is apart of modern comics. Not so much the mousers just the modern pacing.

As for Michelangelo getting hurt,its good to see some tense moments that the turtles can brush off. He is fine.

[Oculus Orbus]

I'm not enjoying the series very much, so I've decided to just go with the flow and see where it goes. This particular issue didn't do much to me, but I'm glad that the mousers seem to be there to stay at least for a little while. For some reason I really love them.

I found it weird too how Michelangelo just joins the fight after being brutally attacked. And one thing that seemed a bit off to me as well is the way the mousers are controlled. Feels extremely simple, considering how Hob is no genius, and there seems to be hundreds of them. It's just a silly thing, but you know.

[TonySiegel]

Face it guys, IDW has a viselike grip upon our collective family jewels. Its obvious that as long as the $ keeps rolling in they shall continue to control the output/quality of their product.

[oldmanwinters]

To paraphrase Peter Laird's glory days:

"If you don't like it, no one is forcing you to buy it!"

:tcool:

But, seriously, you SHOULD buy it! Because (A) it is pretty interesting and (B) you're a Turtles fan; support your brand! :lol:

[ToTheNines]

Face it guys, IDW has a viselike grip upon our collective family jewels. Its obvious that as long as the $ keeps rolling in they shall continue to control the output/quality of their product.

If you ask me, they deserve every cent of that $.

[Andrew NDB]

And one thing that seemed a bit off to me as well is the way the mousers are controlled. Feels extremely simple, considering how Hob is no genius, and there seems to be hundreds of them. It's just a silly thing, but you know.

That kind of jumped out at me too. It looks like a remote control for like... you know, a little kid's remote controlled car or something. Driving a Mouser and working the mouth and all that with any kind of precision seems like a pretty complicated operation for a guy and then, yeah, there's the whole "there's hundreds of them simultaneously" thing too.

It's pretty much a given that the Mousers are at least somewhat autonomous... so maybe Old Hob is just setting targets and then just clicks, "Attack"? But there doesn't appear to be any readout on Old Hob's remote where he'd be choosing targets or anything... so I dunno. And there's times when it seems like he's feverishly working the remote... I wonder exactly what he's doing at this point -- just mashing "Attack" over and over again, like someone might mash the X button while playing Tekken at home?

[CyberCubed]

Face it guys, IDW has a viselike grip upon our collective family jewels. Its obvious that as long as the $ keeps rolling in they shall continue to control the output/quality of their product.

And they deserve it. Its an entertaining comic so far that's only let down because each issue is only allotted 22 pages for story material.

The story is moving slowly, but people had the same complaints about Volume 4's pacing a decade ago, and back then we had to wait 2 months for new issues.

I think some of you keep thinking that this should be more like the Mirage comics, when in reality it doesn't have to be like that at all. I see the IDW series as a mix between the cartoons and the comics and that's fine.

Sometimes I honestly wish this was the new series airing on TV.

[Cowabunga Carl]

I plan on finally getting my copy today. I'm excited to finally read it.

[DrSpengler]

The remote thing... I dunno. It's just one of those ingrained tropes of sci-fi tech that's been around forever that I try not to give much thought to. Like, how can someone reasonably pilot a Gundam with two joysticks, foot pedals and some switches? Just one of those things.

Though I agree it probably would've been better off as the original mousers; that you just turn "on" and they have their own level of programmed semi-autonomy.

[Oculus Orbus]

Though I agree it probably would've been better off as the original mousers; that you just turn "on" and they have their own level of programmed semi-autonomy.

Exactly. I mean, this is no deal-breaker at all, but something like that would've made a lot more sense.

[Matches Malone]

Starting with their introduction in #6, they do make subtle hints that things are semi-automated due to Hob's "limited abilities." I'd like to think the remote would be for general attack/defense/retreat formations or attack paradigms... anyone played Final Fantasy XIII?! I'd wager Baxter Stockman has...

[Bobby Curnow]

Starting with their introduction in #6, they do make subtle hints that things are semi-automated due to Hob's "limited abilities." I'd like to think the remote would be for general attack/defense/retreat formations or attack paradigms... anyone played Final Fantasy XIII?! I'd wager Baxter Stockman has...

Yeah, this pretty much covers it. The Mousers are autonomous, but can be directed for specific actions, like to swarm a target (Mike), or release smoke, or dance a synchronized jig. Issue #15 will be our big Mouser musical issue.

[Matches Malone]

Only gripe about this arc was the mouser redesign... I just don't care for it and the original works so well. Then again, they didn't exactly reinvent the wheel, so it doesn't bug me too much, it's just too bad. I am looking forward to that giant mouser in #9 though!

[Killer Moth]

Given the Mousers' general paucity in the overall storyline or franchise -- they are here, they attack Splinter and the Turtles and then, they shut down for good -- I personally don't mind them around longer than expected, mainly because of their one-shot appearances in most TMNT media (save for the video games). Then again, it's not easy to make the Mousers interesting -- Tristan Jones tried his best in Tales Vol. 2, which was a nice Easter egg for hardcore fans. The other reason being, at least, the Turtles will have something to hit in the meantime until we get the Foot Soldiers up and running, be they human, robot or whatever.

As for the controller issue, it's a valid point, surely, but it should be viewed as 'MST3K Mantra' time. ("It's only a comic book, so I should just relax.") Does it really matter how it works in the long run? As always, feel free to convince me otherwise.

Although, if Baxter really were a jerk, he could have a hidden program to sic the Mousers on Hob after the mission. He made a go of it, once, during his "demonstration" of the Mousers, so why not again?

Exit question 1: Did anyone looked at the controller and thought "Wii," because it looks a little like a Wii controller?

Exit question 2: This Mouser musical number, will they get to sing "New York, New York?" Because that is why I would buy that issue. Heh.

[Matches Malone]

Yeah, this pretty much covers it. The Mousers are autonomous, but can be directed for specific actions, like to swarm a target (Mike), or release smoke, or dance a synchronized jig. Issue #15 will be our big Mouser musical issue.

I can only assume the musical issue comes with sheet music so we can sing along as we read the issue...:P

[oldmanwinters]

Regarding the remote, maybe Stockman just gave Hob a placebo device to make him feel like he was accomplishing something?

That would be a pretty funny prank to pull on that bad tabby.

Issue #15 will be our big Mouser musical issue.

:teek:

Gonna be something like this (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exGJsv6ZNlo)?

:tlol:

[Killer Moth]

The Mousers would have their work cut out, as it's hard to top this...

_m-GdmYc7RA

I miss Tony Randall. Sighs.

Don't worry about the smushed image, as that's in widescreen and corrects itself as it plays.

[Matches Malone]

Regarding the remote, maybe Stockman just gave Hob a placebo device to make him feel like he was accomplishing something?

That was actually the other scenario I had in my head when I read the issue. He was just excited and wanted to push some buttons and feel like he was contributing!

[Andrew NDB]

Regarding the remote, maybe Stockman just gave Hob a placebo device to make him feel like he was accomplishing something?

LOL, that actually made me laugh.

[Oculus Orbus]

Regarding the remote, maybe Stockman just gave Hob a placebo device to make him feel like he was accomplishing something?

It wouldn't make much sense otherwise. Why would you send anyone in the first place, taking the risk of being catched, when you can use the mousers by remote control?

Hob was just hiding the whole time, and all he does really is carry Splinter, and piss off Raphael just by being there. I think his solely presence unnecessarily complicates things on Stockman's end.

The use of Old Hob in that arch still remains a bit random, in my opinion. I want to see how his relationship with Stockman continues.

[MikeandRaph87]

It wouldn't make much sense otherwise. Why would you send anyone in the first place, taking the risk of being catched, when you can use the mousers by remote control?

Hob was just hiding the whole time, and all he does really is carry Splinter, and piss off Raphael just by being there. I think his solely presence unnecessarily complicates things on Stockman's end.

The use of Old Hob in that arch still remains a bit random, in my opinion. I want to see how his relationship with Stockman continues.

Stockman could use Hob as a way for Baxter to feel like he has power over someone due to his ego while he has the master control to override Hob if he goes rogue not ot mention Baxter does not have to get his hands dirty. While Hob gets to feel like he is bullying/getting revenge on Splinter directly. It also is IDW further using its new additon to the TMNT lore.

[Oculus Orbus]

It also is IDW further using its new additon to the TMNT lore.

To me, it felt more like that than anything implied in the plot. But we never know, I'm still open to see where the character goes.

[Killer Moth]

It wouldn't make much sense otherwise. Why would you send anyone in the first place, taking the risk of being catched, when you can use the mousers by remote control?

Hob was just hiding the whole time, and all he does really is carry Splinter, and piss off Raphael just by being there. I think his solely presence unnecessarily complicates things on Stockman's end.

The use of Old Hob in that arch still remains a bit random, in my opinion. I want to see how his relationship with Stockman continues.

How dare you use Earth logic. Heh. Maybe the better question is 'would human agents and protocols work any better?' The theory being Hob at least could fight back against the Turtles in case the Mousers fail, whereas, we saw how Baxter's men fared in the Donatello mini. Besides, not like Hob would exactly go to the authorities, if he had second guesses, like a human could. And he really doesn't like the Turtles, anyway, so he has lots of motivation to do the mission and enjoy it in his own way.

The situation is complicated enough, as how do you explain to human authorities, "oh, by the way, I had to use my new robots to get the Turtles, who were based on a secret experiment/bio-weapon, and employed a cat mutant based from said experiment." Not to mention, using a remote control from whatever miles away isn't exactly the same as being in the field with them, as there is always a potential hitch. (87 Shredder learned that one from "A Thing About Rats." Now, if the Mousers had real A.I., that would be different, except they tend to be the standard "Crush, Kill, Destroy" robot.

(Either that, or they do their best intimation of the Mousers in the Arcade Game, carrying Splinter away. That's hard to pull off effectively, or isn't it? Vs. someone who could drag him away with lesser fuss, which probably was the real point.)

'Course, it would be easier if Baxter did it all himself, but this version certainly wouldn't get his hands dirty like that. Not yet, anyway.

Your points aren't wrong, at all, actually, yet, bottom-line, if it means Hob is still around, if only to be Baxter's lackey for the time being and to be involved in the mission for whatever reason, so be it. Some villains work better working for someone else than on their own, as his gang back in the first issue didn't last too long, did it? That may be the other reason to use Hob for Baxter's purposes, as better to have him around and keep an eye on him. Cuts down on extra liabilities, because Baxter will have that problem, himself, if he fails Krang.

I'm just speculating or spitballing to justify Hob's current role, so feel free to shoot me down if I'm in the wrong.

[Oculus Orbus]

Well, Hob hasn't proved to be very efficient fighting the Turtles before, so that's what the mousers are sent for, "instead" of Hob or a group of armed men.

As for Hob's motivation, I don't think it mattered much: he was pushing buttons on a remote control. In my opinion, it would actually have made a whole lot more of sense controling them from miles away. Just give them cameras (you know they've got the technology) and control them from a proper base with sofisticated controls. Or just let them be with the classic A.I., make a mess, and send someone (maybe even Hob) to pick up whatever you want.

That way, you don't risk giving the control to someone that might be discovered and attacked, ruining the whole thing.

I agree Stockman shouldn't do it himself, but he might as well just plan it a little more. The way it was done seems too risky, in my opinion.

I'm fine with Hob being a lackey, but Stockman's a genius, he should do better.

[Killer Moth]

Well, Hob hasn't proved to be very efficient fighting the Turtles before, so that's what the mousers are sent for, "instead" of Hob or a group of armed men.

As for Hob's motivation, I don't think it mattered much: he was pushing buttons on a remote control. In my opinion, it would actually have made a whole lot more of sense controling them from miles away. Just give them cameras (you know they've got the technology) and control them from a proper base with sofisticated controls. Or just let them be with the classic A.I., make a mess, and send someone (maybe even Hob) to pick up whatever you want.

That way, you don't risk giving the control to someone that might be discovered and attacked, ruining the whole thing.

I agree Stockman shouldn't do it himself, but he might as well just plan it a little more. The way it was done seems too risky, in my opinion.

I'm fine with Hob being a lackey, but Stockman's a genius, he should do better.

Well, if you want some version of that, "A Thing About Rats" did a good job with Shredder as mission control. You're not wrong on any of the above, as there are always liabilities, Hob or not. Hell, using the Mousers like that is a liability, just as Baxter used them in his first Mirage issue. The police should have gone with that one, "Gee, a building collapses, soon after Baxter publicly announced his big-mouthed, rat-catching robots who can hunt in the sewers and chew through things. Who could have done it?"

Or, to put it another way, the plan, or its logic failure, could have worked better if Baxter were more desperate, especially had Krang showed up before he did the whole plan with Hob. Then, he'll do whatever it takes, and accept the risks more easily or the recklessness would be a little more understandable, as panic for his life would set in. That, and this is my theory for using Hob, to put his destructive ness to an actual use. Or maybe he was being whimsical about the premise, as "a cat controlling a bunch of mousers?" Who knows?

Baxter should do better, but we're not at his "hands-on" phase, like he would be in his cyborg mode. Or, he's so intellectual smug (as the IDW version really is), it plays into his intellectual laziness, which he partially showed in the Donatello mini. That is, until Krang appeared in his apartment, and lit the proverbial fire under his you-know-what.

[ToTheNines]

I forgot to mention... With this issue, IDW's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Ongoing series has officially surpassed Dreamwave's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles book.

Next up: Mirage Volume 2! (Magic number's 14).

[Venom]

I forgot to mention... With this issue, IDW's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Ongoing series has officially surpassed Dreamwave's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles book.

Next up: Mirage Volume 2! (Magic number's 14).

And Tales Volume 1, for those keeping track?

[Andrew NDB]

And Tales Volume 1, for those keeping track?

I'm not sure Tales Volume 1 was ever supposed to be an ongoing. Or was it?

[Coola Yagami]

Just got it but for an all-out brawl... I didn't really see a whole lot of fighting going on. The pages were too crowded and it just looked like the Foot was mainly trying to push or tackle Leo down. Even when he fought back, it looked sloppy. Some small panels of Leo taking direct hits to the face as well as some of the ninjas actually punching/kicking/stomping/whatever and whatnot would have helped. The only real fight was the one-on-one which I liked.

The way he took down Leo with simple, but very well-placed and well-timed palm strikes was awesome and shows how much of a menace he (Shredder???) will be when the kid gloves come off and he decided to fight seriously.

Although the art just didn't do it for me... sorry. Probably the worst and weirdest looking style so far...