Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin was both a stunning throwback to the golden age of TMNT and a bold push into the franchise’s future. The comic was a hit with fans and critics, prompting a cinematic adaptation, a video game, and a follow-up. The sequel comic boasts some impressive artwork, with covers by several legendary creators.
One cover was designed by TMNT co-creator Kevin Eastman. He is also co-writing the series with longtime collaborator Tom Waltz. The other variant cover was produced by series’ artist Ben Bishop. Both covers for TMNT: The Last Ronin II #4 may be viewed below.
The Last Ronin II #4 explores dark future of TMNT
Set in an alternate future, The Last Ronin centered on the last surviving member of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. He sought to avenge the death of his brothers by fighting a revived Foot Clan, led by the grandson of the Shredder. Originally acting alone, he comes to join forces with an older April O’Neil and her daughter, Casey Marie Jones, fighting the fascist order established by the Foot.
The Last Ronin and its sequel both use a combination of art styles to tell their stories. Ben Bishop illustrates the flashbacks, mimicking the grittier style of the original TMNT comics by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird. The artwork for the main story is provided by Esau Escourza and Issac Escourza.
TMNT: The Last Ronin II #4 finds April executing an untested contingency plan as their enemies move in to wipe out the Resistance. This plan leaves both ally and enemy alike running for safety. As the Resistance survivors retreat to an old stronghold, the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles must reconcile the past with the present, in the penultimate issue of the Re-Evolution story.
TMNT: The Last Ronin II #4 is now available for pre-order at comic shops everywhere.