Gene Luen Yang and Freddie E. Williams II’s New Scene Boosts Sales and Revives Enthusiasm for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

The phenomenon Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles he roars loudly again. The number 13 of the main IDW comic has overcome the barrier of 100,000 copies solda spectacular figure that places him in the exclusive “six figure club”. And the most surprising thing: He achieved this without being number oneguided by a strategy that revolutionized the market: blind bags.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #13

In a landscape where comic book sales are increasingly dependent on collecting and nostalgia, IDW knew how to listen to the fandom. The launch of TMNT #13scheduled for December 10thcombines the debut of a new luxury creative team with a marketing move that delighted enthusiasts and specialized shops.

Gene Luen Yangwinner of numerous Eisner Awards and author of acclaimed works such as Chinese born in America or Superman destroys the Klanjoin forces with Freddie E. Williams IIthe artist behind titles like Batman/TMNT Yes He-Man/Thundercats. Together, they promise a vibrant and visually powerful ride for comics’ most beloved sewer heroes.

“I’ve been a Turtles fan since I was a kid.“Yang confessed. “They also gave me my first chance at comics thanks to the Xeric scholarship, so being able to write them now is something very special. Freddie and I are grateful for the incredible support from fans and booksellers. We can’t wait for you to see what we have in store!”

Williams II, equally emotional, added: “I’ve been dreaming of this moment for thirty years. From playing the TMNT RPG to teaming up with Kevin Eastman, it’s like coming full circle. “I’m having a great time with Gene and I think people will be amazed by what we’re cooking.”

The secret weapon of success

IDW Sales Director, Ryan Balkamrevealed the key to the boom: “When I found out that Gene and Freddie were publishing their first story, I thought it was the perfect time to celebrate with a blind bag. We worked closely with stores and fans to offer something collectible but affordableand the result was incredible. “We are overwhelmed by the response.”

Los blind bags —surprise packs with random covers—have proven to be a magnet for collectors. In case of TMNT #13each bag includes one of multiple cover variations, some so unique they could become secondary market gems.

Among the most important covers are Christmas edition by Jared Cullumthe versions of Clayton Crain Yes Daniel Warren Johnsonand variations of Kevin Eastmann, Well done Bishop Yes Dustin Nguyen. But the real pearls are the exclusive to blind bags: a 1:25 of Nathan Szerdy and a 1:100 of Rahzzahwhich also features the first appearance of the new villain, Ujigami.

A new beginning for an eternal saga

With this new phase, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles reaffirms its legacy as one of the longest-running and most influential franchises in modern comics. From its humble black and white origins Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird In the 1980s, the Turtles went through all kinds of reimaginings, adaptations and crossovers with other universes, always maintaining their rebellious spirit and charisma.

The success of TMNT #13 This comes at a key time for IDW, as it seeks to strengthen its position among major American publishers. This coup proves that the combination of good stories, artistic talent and smart sales strategies it can continue to move masses even in a competitive market like the current one.

And for the fans this data is not only a reason to celebrate, but also a signal Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo and Raphael They are still more alive than ever. With Yang and Williams II at the helm, the Turtles’ future is painted in the colors of success.