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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Universe #3 (2016)

Comic Books Library
by Comic Books Library August 07, 2025
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Universe #3 (2016)


🐱 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Universe #3 (2016) — Full Breakdown

📚 Genre

Action, Superhero, Sci-Fi, Adventure, Martial Arts

This issue blends gritty street action with high-stakes ninja warfare, spotlighting themes of brotherhood, survival, and unexpected alliances. TMNT Universe leans heavily into its darker tones, offering a mature, character-driven experience.

🧑‍đŸŽ€ Main Characters

  • Raphael – Fiercely independent, emotionally intense, and the spotlight of this issue.

  • Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo – Injured and vulnerable, their fate hangs in the balance.

  • Alopex – The mutant fox and former Foot assassin with shifting allegiances.

  • Koya – A mutated falcon with a grudge, representing a brutal and relentless threat.

  • Old Hob – Former adversary turned uneasy ally, pushing the themes of compromise and grey morality.

✍️ Writer

John Lees
John Lees crafts a tight and emotionally-charged narrative that explores loyalty, desperation, and the evolution of enemies into reluctant partners. His storytelling shines by adding psychological weight to action-heavy moments.

🎹 Artist

Nick Pitarra (Main Story)
Marley Zarcone (Backup Story)

Nick Pitarra’s detailed line work and expressive character art elevate the tension in every panel. Marley Zarcone’s style in the backup feature complements the main story with a surreal and atmospheric contrast.

📝 Editor Details

Bobby Curnow
As editor, Bobby Curnow ensures a seamless integration between the main TMNT continuity and this spin-off series. His guidance maintains narrative cohesion while allowing creative risks.

🏱 Publisher and Brand

IDW Publishing
Brand: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Universe (a TMNT continuity-expanding imprint by IDW)

This issue falls under IDW's ongoing effort to deepen the lore of the TMNT world beyond the mainline series, focusing on supporting characters, psychological themes, and deeper conflicts.

📅 Release Year

2016

Released in October 2016, this issue is part of a critically praised TMNT Universe run that expands the scope and complexity of the Turtles' world.

📖 Brief Plot Summary

In TMNT Universe #3, the Turtles are gravely wounded and cornered in hostile territory with no immediate escape. Raphael, long known for his rebellious streak, must grapple with the harsh reality that survival may depend on working alongside former enemies. With Koya closing in and trust hanging by a thread, Raphael is forced into a tense partnership with Old Hob and Alopex—testing his leadership and capacity for compromise. The issue blends close-quarters combat with introspective character development, pushing Raphael into unfamiliar emotional terrain.

đŸ”„ Notable Arcs or Storylines

  • “The War to Come” Prelude – This issue builds narrative tension that connects directly to future TMNT Universe and main series storylines, laying groundwork for the evolving dynamics between mutants.

  • Alopex's Redemption Arc – Hints at Alopex’s struggle to break free from her violent past and redefine her path.

  • Raphael’s Leadership Growth – An early look at Raph's potential as a team leader when Leo is down.

🔍 Fan Theories or Interpretations

  • Koya as a Dark Reflection of Leonardo – Some fans interpret Koya’s role as a mirror to Leonardo, emphasizing the dangers of discipline without empathy.

  • Alopex and Raphael's Connection – Subtle interactions hint at a growing bond between the two, sparking speculation about deeper trust—or something more personal—in future arcs.

  • Old Hob’s Morality Spiral – Readers debate whether Hob is evolving into a true anti-hero or simply manipulating others for his own ends.

⭐ Review Summary

TMNT Universe #3 earns high marks for its emotionally grounded storytelling and dynamic visual style. The issue thrives on character depth, especially Raphael’s reluctant leadership under pressure. Nick Pitarra’s art bursts with intensity, delivering kinetic fight scenes and expressive character work. The pacing is sharp, and every panel feels intentional. John Lees delivers a tight script, balancing action with emotional stakes. This installment stands as a pivotal moment in the broader TMNT narrative, especially for fans invested in character evolution.

🐱 A must-read for longtime TMNT followers and anyone intrigued by stories where survival demands trust in the unlikeliest of allies.


Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Universe #3 (2016)
Language : English