Writer: Paul Allor
Art: Ariel Medel
Colorist: Sarah Myer
Letterer: Ed Dukeshire
Cover Art: Ariel Medel and Sarah Myer
Publisher: IDW
Price: $3.99
Release Date: July 19, 2023
Reviewed by: Samriddh Chaudhary
Introduction:
Raphael and Guile’s battle continues as they duke it out in a proper Street Fight while Bison and Baxter Stockman are planning an evil scheme linked to the disappearances of the fighters from the tournament. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles vs. Street Fighter #2 continues the battle of the franchises while providing a dose of mystery.
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The Dispatch:
Baxter Stockman and Bison are conjuring up an evil scheme while the heroes continue battling each other as contenders in the tournament. The incorporation of TMNT and Street Fighter in the same world seems very organic thanks to the setup of the tournament. The plot itself is extremely simple and easy to follow but also boring. Even though we haven’t understood everything about Bison and Stockman’s plan as of yet, it doesn’t seem to be taking the story in much of an interesting direction. I do have an interest in Bison attempting to awaken Raphael’s Psycho Power as it seems like an organic combination of Raphael’s nature and the concept of a spiritual energy that feeds off of anger.
The characters in the story haven’t been given much depth and that doesn’t seem to be the plan in general. Even the Turtles haven’t been given much characterization outside of their usual archetypes which is disappointing considering the fact I wanted the writers for the Turtles to really bring out the personalities of the Street Fighter characters. It does not even work when you look at it from the point of a fun crossover because the “fun” for the most part is missing. The only fun aspects are some of the action and most of the jokes Mikey cracks throughout the issue. There is one really good one at the end of the issue.
The Art:
The Art of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles vs. Street Fighter #2 is interesting. The collaboration between the Colorist (Sarah Myer) and the Illustrator (Ariel Medel) gives the book an original look that suits the story very well. The aesthetic makes the existence of both franchises in the same world even more believable. Although, some of the action in the book should be given more impact rather than cutting to the next scene after a punch is thrown.
Final Thoughts:
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles vs. Street Fighter #2 presents an intriguing crossover concept that merges two beloved franchises within the context of a mysterious tournament. The collaboration between the Colorist and Illustrator brings an original and immersive visual style to the story, lending credibility to the coexistence of both worlds. However, the plot’s simplicity and lack of character depth detract from the overall enjoyment, leaving the narrative feeling somewhat lackluster. There is hope that future issues will delve deeper into character personalities and interactions, elevating the overall crossover experience.