1987 TMNT vs 2003 TMNT: The Designs Compared (Which Was Better?)

[@THEOLDTURTLEDEN]

*Discover more about the TMNT* by checking out this EPIC playlist: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmeVpIuVZahlrdk

[@Turo602]

Love your channel. There aren't many TMNT centric channels out there, so you really got this corner down pat. I would like to make a video suggestion though. How about a series of all the comic book references and adaptations in the 2k3 series and how they differ? I recently took a trip to the Ninja Turtles site on the wayback just to learn about the entirety of the mirage comics and it's so mind blowing seeing how much they actually pulled and altered from the comics and vice versa with the Battle Nexus being introduced in volume 4. Karai is essentially three different characters from the books in the 2k3 series and Donnie's mutation arc in the show was originally Raph's, which never got resolved in the comics. So much to unpack, would love to see a video. Keep up the great work.

[@Turo602]

@tyrone kinard In volume 4 of the Mirage comics, Raphael has a 2nd mutation that looks exactly like Donatello's in the cartoon. He even goes berserk and has a face off with Leatherhead. He eventually gains control of his mental state, but his mutation never reverts back to normal as they never finished volume 4. Leo was still in the Battle Nexus, and Donatello was going crazy trying to clone master Splinter after his death. Which kind of mirrors how Donatello took it the hardest in Back to the Sewers as well when Splinter was lost in cyberspace.

[@Turo602]

@tyrone kinard Yeah, I had absolutely no idea about any of those characters other than Karai existing in the comics, but I had no clue how she was utilized in the comics. After going through all of it, it's crazy to see how 2k3 Karai acts as all characters in one. No one ever really talks about it either, let alone the show at all, so it would be cool to see someone make that kind of content.

[@powerturtlebusters]

Ok ko thundercats roar etc, looks like crap. Hands down. Shows you can not be able to draw and make it if you know the right people.

[@powerturtlebusters]

@tyrone kinard true, sad and very true. Idk why they cater to the retweet ranters.

[@LILGHETTI]

I think both designs respectively serve the tone of the series! I personally grew up with the 2003 but I respect the 1987 as well!

[@jeffreyandrewwinters3719]

@Kazuma The Great Player The 1987 series will always be the best

[@teasdawedsefsef]

Shut your stupid bitch ass up. The 87' design is far better

[@terrauncebowie6712]

Day1 Amato tell it. These yungins don’t know the originals set the tone

[@urmomisurdad5422]

2003 version is best and most faithful to source material

[@DusBeforeDawn2008]

Agreed, the 2003 designs would look weird in 87 and vicera verca. Though 2003 shredder is way cooler, but then again I couldn't imagine 2003 shredder whining like a petulant teenager that he wanted to conquer earth

[@djmaxzoom3]

Man I’m never going to forget those Saturday mornings I remember when the 2003 TMNT got revealed on channel 3 or 5 and the showed on the bottom right of the tv screen timing the premiere and they kept interviewing New Yorkers about seeing them then when it was finally time for first episode that iconic theme song good old childhood 😭

[@nonahs1487]

The 2003 version is the best, of course. I wish if they would continue the 03 or at lease use their design for any future new TMNT series

[@Tino21234]

no its 2012

[@Turo602]

My favorite version of the 80s TMNT was from the first 5 episodes. They looked so good and were animated pretty well too, before they got all pudgy and innocent looking in season 2. I appreciated the red sky Turtles but those episodes were just kind of bleh, so I don't really have any special kind of love for those designs. The 2003 Turtles from the first 5 seasons were absolutely amazing though. Especially in the better animated episodes where they're just so fluid and detailed. They just have such a definitive look to them, like better versions of what is usually seen in a lot of the mirage books.

[@jeanette8606]

Turo 602 the first five episodes of the 1987 TMNT were Japanese animated , hand drawn and detailed. Science Fiction concepts and David Wise writing the story arc. 2003 is definitely the best out of the later versions.... I couldn’t really watch anything else after that .... the IDW comics do a decent job though

[@jeanette8606]

RIP David Wise

[@LeopoldLitchenstein]

I believe the first 5 episodes were animated by Toei Animation which explains it

[@sainttrunks1982]

You are all correct, and i'm proud to see no one mentioned the 2012 TMNT mock series.

[@j.nicolosi6647]

Exactly this. Everything OP said. Only difference is I would change “absolutely amazing” to “perfect” 😁

[@supernerdfriends2228]

I love both of these series because I grew up with the 2003 series and my dad bought us a few seasons worth of dvds of the 1987 series. And its hard to compare them because the 87 show was a lot more goofy and light hearted while the 2003 show was dark and serious and I think each respective design fits there show really well. I like them both but I gotta say 2003 is better just cause I grew up with it. PS I like your videos!

[@ShadowSumac]

Its funny since, I have seen very few people who say that they grew up with a 2k3 show. It feels as if most people had forgotten it was existed (alongside 2007 movie) and that Turtles had returned into spotlight only with Nick's cartoon.

[@dawwe8869]

Gonna have to go with the early 2003 design when it comes to this one. I do like the 87 one a lot but the 2003 one while not being perfect is probably the best TMNT cartoon design so far. It's also the one Peter Laird seem to have been most involved with.

[@tgiacin435]

Literally only thing I would add would be making them different sizes, like I’d expect Raph and Donnie to have two completely different body types

[@dawwe8869]

@@tgiacin435 That is something I would also change. Might also give them some other minor changes. I would probably also change the belts, but the ones they have in 03 does allow for a little movement.

[@thisissketchy9339]

1987: the best jokes 2003: best story 2012: best turtle characters versions

[@Ooferninja69]

Imo the 2012 show took story’s of tmnt And made them better and unique and they also had the best jokes

[@thecartoongirl22]

The 2K3 character designs will always be my favourite, because it makes them looks more mature.

[@sainttrunks1982]

TMNT 87' fan here #BringThemBackWithAllNewSeasonsNickelodeonWhereTheyBelong

[@FenrirFire18]

@tyrone kinard Lol, you're part of a very small group of haters.

[@tmntforever2684]

Agreed dude

[@sainttrunks1982]

@tyrone kinard 1) Season and part of 2 and season 9 & 10 weren't childish crap. 2) Nickelodeon could make the new season of the 1987 TMNT series 'with 2003 level series storyline" now don't you think? Of course.

[@sainttrunks1982]

@tyrone kinard Season 1, 9 & 10 were serious. Seasons 2-8 weren't. either way their characters weren't idiots at any point like Mikey 2003

[@RandomComicCharacters]

I’d rather they adapt the IDW comics

[@richardmccann9875]

Very hard to choose I grew up watching the original and also enjoyed the 2003 series but I think I'll go for the 87 version for the nostalgia

[@Godzilla370]

2003 has more nostalgia

[@mitchfletcher2386]

Definitely the 87 Turtles. I like the 2003 Turtles, but I just enjoy how the Fred Wolf Turtles look. And yes, I'm aware the TMNT was originally dark and gritty, but had they stayed that route, they would've never made it to their current heights of fame.

[@isla4953]

Exactly... They needed the happy, funny vibe. It helped a lot of us depressed kids lol. I loved the darker 90's film too though...It was a good progression.

[@theblueretro2909]

The 2003 version is the best, of course.

[@CarzaEditing]

BIG HUGE FAX YES 😍❤️

[@kryptonitespider-bitedynam7305]

Nah

[@hunterv9983]

Back to the sewer.

[@shawnorjiakor]

Yes.

[@kenshinhimura9387]

lol no it is garbage. The quality of the drawings is terrible.

[@Nicksolo85]

Both designs are pretty cool. I like how the 1987 turtles wear wraps & pads that match the colors of their bandannas, but I like how the 2003 turtles are taller & have longer bandannas. Initialized belt buckles & pupils in their eyes I can do with or without. In the Back to the Sewer season of the 2003 series, the characters were redesigned to match the 2007 movie counterparts.

[@yeeisme]

2K3 has some of the best stories for my money. And I really like the voice actors. It’s currently my COVID-19 binge show.

[@Ooferninja69]

Eh Iike the 2012 version more but that’s my opinion

[@jeffeasy2685]

I am rewatching tmnt 2003 and binge watching it is boring. I only watch 2 episode a day. But i can binge watch tmnt 2012 without getting bored. I am also rewatching TMNT 2012 for 6th time.

[@mackman4734]

I'm gonna have to go with the 87' TMNT even though I like 03' version too I grew up watching the Ninja Turtles and that and MMPR were my 2 favorite shows.

[@davidhill8565]

Sales of the 1987 TMNT show DVD box set may have went up because of Shredder’s Revenge.

[@Popesize]

Tough one! I mean -the 87 is classic and iconic and will so forever be. But i think i prefer the 2003, due to the different skin colors, which gave them all a bit individuality even without their bandanas. However they are still so similar in their physique, that if they are in the shadows, you wouldn't tell them apart. Compare to the newer animated versions, where they are all different designs, and even different species of turtles. That kinda ticks me off

[@Jas47Official]

Honestly I love both versions of the turtles but I grew up with the 2003 turtles so I'm leaning towards there character design cuz it's more dark and they all look more different than each other

[@cramirez053]

1987 teenage mutant ninja turtles show can't go wrong with the classic/original turtles from the 80's

[@jeremycoleman2736]

I say the 2003 version has the best design.

[@supersonicspeed6917]

I say the 87 version is the best design

[@spencermccarthy5157]

I love the 1987 turtles best because I grew up with that series as a kid for 1 reason, another reason that I like the 1987 series best is that the turtle's elbow pads, kneepad and wristbands are the same colors as their masks.

[@DWOMT]

I prefer the 87 Turtles. I grew up with them, and I also love how their designs transitioned very well into the video game market in those days. The Turtles Arcade (the original) is now a timeless classic.

[@DWOMT]

@tyrone kinard but yet those versions catapulted the Turtles into the mainstream and became a merchandising phenomenon. Not to mention that those versions opened the door for all the movies that followed and video games that starred the 87 Turtles, games that are now among the classics and loved by millions. You can dislike the 87 Turtles, but they were the ones that put the franchise into the spotlight and led a lot of people towards the Mirage Comics (myself included).

[@CJTranceAddiction]

@@DWOMT Dude, truer words have never been spoken hahaha. You nailed it, man! 80's turtles for life!!!! During early late 80's/early 90's the ninja turtles were everywhere. Even at Burger King where I got those turtle gadgets with my meals. What a time to be alive!

[@DWOMT]

@@CJTranceAddiction man I miss those times! I lived and breathed the Ninja Turtles in the late 80s and early 90s as a kid. That was a great time to be a kid and the 87 Turtles were huge. People bash them, but don't understand what they did for the franchise.

[@CJTranceAddiction]

@@DWOMT Oh dude, totally! I'm with ya. I'm 38 now and as a kid, I almost wore ninja turtles shirts and shorts everyday. I was a TOTAL 90's kid back then...even my buddies at the time didn't wear cartoon shirts, etc. I don't care - I expressed my absolute LOVE for the turtles! And when I got word a live action movie was coming out I swear I almost had a breakdown. To this day, the 1990's movie is the greatest representation of the turtles for me...even topping the 80's/90's cartoon. Funny, though...no ONE would be bashing them back in the day. It's only these NEW kids that do so, I guess. Like you said....they just have no idea how big they were. WE made them big and now we're all grown up. (Btw, I just bought ALL four NECA 1990 movie turtle figures - just stunning! i.ebayimg.com/images/g/noAAAOSwXHReBGnP/s-l300.jpg Cheers!

[@DWOMT]

@@CJTranceAddiction That's awesome!! Yeah I just recently turned 39 myself. I remember that I got to see the 1990 movie a week before it was officially released because I won tickets to an early screening from a Burger King contest. I remember walking into the theater and seeing kids dressed like the Turtles jumping up and down in their seats before the movie started. The energy in that theater was insane. That 1990 movie is a masterpiece. They combined the 87 cartoon with the Mirage Comics to make such an awesome hybrid that it made the movie perfect. Even though I do like Secret of the Ooze, none of the movies that came after the original could do better. You're right that it's the younger group bashing the 87 Turtles, without really understanding why the 87 Turtles are the way they are. They're a reflection of that time period. If any of the current incarnations of the turtles had came out back then, they'd be very similar to the 87 Turtles.

[@colinpreston80]

I like the 2003-series style until Fast Forward. I honestly feel like the animation wasn't as good during the last two seasons.

[@sc4r966]

Colin Preston i think that Fast Forward was also amazing,it gave us something different and i really liked it but that’s just my opinion

[@lakyak]

@@sc4r966 I liked animation in fast forward and it was actually really well done both animation and fight scenes but the season is so boring like all the episodes are mediocre except a couple of them as for BTTS the animation is mediocre along with the fight scenes but I think some of the design changes like April and Casey are really good splinter was ok and turtles I was pissed off at first because of the pupils but I got used to them as for the plot I actually love it and whenever they are in cyber world and they don't have those pupils I love it cyber shredder is badass and has a great design hun is good as always and Khan was good and I love how they used elite ninja theme for him

[@galaxy_kitten95]

I agree to some degree. I’ve always liked the style of BTTS, especially when I was younger because it was meant to resemble the 2007 movie. For some reason, I still like how the Turtles look when they go into cyberspace, especially when their white eyes come back. But, still. In terms of how the series handles its actions and fluidity, the earlier seasons definitely hold up to this day.

[@registame2878]

The original 87 designs are the best; they were simplistic and alined well with the human shape

[@SimpleManGuitars1973]

I'm 38 and have experienced Turtle Mania from the beginning and I just can't see any animated look being more iconic than the Fred Wolf ones. I think they looked better as figures than the 03 as well. That being said, I think the best overall iteration of the animated Turtles as far as the total package is the Nick series. It brought it all together brilliantly and had incredible admiration for the whole history of the franchise and was really coming from a sincere place. THAT being said, my FAVORITE Turtles experience will always be the first movie.

[@samanthamartin2267]

I love the 87 turtles cause it was the show that I grew up with.

[@greek1237]

I have to give it to the 87 series for still being in stores today lol.

[@ninomachadoelpropio9350]

87's version rules. Maybe my preference is noltalgic based, but 87's version is more detailed and natural, it flows. One thing I would improve though, it the fighting animation. Back then, fighting scenes looked a little akward and rigid.

[@irishtyrant4532]

Yet we made sure we watched it!

[@gyrrakavian]

Part of that is also probably thanks to dancing around censorship rules at the time.

[@irishtyrant4532]

@@gyrrakavian according to the like dislike ratio there are only 24 of us left

[@gyrrakavian]

@@irishtyrant4532 I actually like the designs at the start of the 2003 version a bit better than the 87 versions. The best version would combine the detail of the 87 shell scutes and limbs with the early '03 designs.

[@irishtyrant4532]

@@gyrrakavian everyone has a preference. The 03 version seemed more on point with the characteristic of each turtle but 87 is what I grew up with and turtles forever is the best cartoon I've seen since it went off air

[@feywinterfox9630]

I am all for the firsts season now the 2003 Turtles, but that said I am in love with that first few episodes of the 1987 when it was under the one animation company (can’t remember the name) Where the style was very much on like the intro of the show. Anyways good video as always!

[@mitchfletcher2386]

Toei Animation.

[@mcqueenx75]

if they went back to the 80s design, the show would get a huge boost in audience viewings... but they don't wanna do that.

[@fbnflaviusbroadcastingnetw6786]

Jim McQueen they’re not interested in us, nor in the source material, nor even in the Turtles for that matter. all they care about is playing off of nostalgia and the emotion for an easy lazy fast cash grab.

[@gyrrakavian]

Have you rewatched the '87 version recently?

[@JanetStarChild]

@@gyrrakavian Yes, and it still holds up; especially the first season, which is excellent.

[@Jmgjgdjd5]

nah, it would be too childish

[@GodofGears]

@@Jmgjgdjd5 at least tmnt 1987 is better than some superhero movies and shows that establish a serious and dark tone but end up resulting in being edgy. It goes to show that kid friendly stuff can be better than so called "adult" content. Heck, Tmnt 1987 is better than most lighthearted and comedy movies and shows nowadays when it comes to humor. Their humor is actually funny.

[@animalmother8037]

87 all the way! Most hero cartoons from the 80s and 90s looked better than they do now.

[@trollgodmaster9275]

Both TMNT are special in there own way none of them are better than each other

[@isaiahdrummerboysimmons675]

03 show was the best show all together I wish it come back with new episodes

[@yanderegirl0666]

I love the 2003 designs of the turtles. Plus, if they didn't have their masks you would still know who's who. If you know the skin tones. Unlike the 87 designs but I respect that show.

[@pr_tr4p_g4wd20]

87 turtles for me that was the first time I seen them ever so those and the first TMNT movie in the 90’s are the best designed turtles in my opinion.

[@gyrrakavian]

The early 2003 design outweighs my nostalgia for the 87 version from my childhood.

[@Giran_0]

The 80's always and forever

[@fitocatso7580]

You know, something I never really heard from you, or maybe I missed it, was some sort of discussion about their voices or which you though fit each character the most. I just though it would be interesting to hear your opinion on what type of voice felt right for you regarding each turtle.

[@drahcir1647]

Let's be real; the animations is always best BEFORE the final season, they just get lazy with it

[@Krimpov]

3:44 "The top two squares of the front of the shell look like chest muscles; the way they're rounded off. It flows good with the rest of their body's muscles and just make them look strong. You just wanted to get your hands on... one of these action figures." Whoa dude! Keep your pants on... Oh... OK...

[@mauricefuqua7288]

Hahahah hahaha 😂

[@metallicoustic6733]

Came here looking for this comment ;-D

[@highstrangeness2396]

for me 87 but I do like 03 as well, I grew up with the 80's turtles which might be why but I think Id still choose 87 if I were not.

[@hambonejamboree7750]

No matter which design you prefer we all know the 1987 had the best intro music.

[@adamhodgins3217]

i really do love both equally my heart goes towards the 87 turtles more but for the love of ninja turtles i like both series

[@Anonymous-yr5pp]

I've watched the 1987 Ninja Turtles all my life and I'll always rate them the best animated Ninja Turtles. I always liked that they had belt buckles with the first letter of their names on it and I found it sad how no new series down the road has ever done this again with their designs of the turtles

[@Blitzo2876]

I loved Lego Batman. They should do a Lego TMNT movie. we saw a glimpse in Lego Movie but only Mikey in a small scene.

[@channel-re5uq]

Yeah idk why Lego never really did anything with TMNT in their hands. Like yeah they made sets, but there shouldve been a movie or game

[@jeffeasy2685]

@@channel-re5uq they were planning to make a Lego tmnt series but warner brothers cancelled it. It was 5 years ago. I wont mind a tmnt series with Lego style.

[@Darthvader-vdr]

@@jeffeasy2685 well I found this kzbin.info/www/bejne/fJu6Ymtmeq54e6M

[@kevinthomas4239]

Although I grew up with the 87 series, I love the 03 series. That series did a great job at actually adapting a large portion of the Mirge era comic storylines. Shame it's not on series release. Would love to see NECA make figures of the 03 style too.

[@BrianAwesome]

@TheOld Turtle Den, perhaps the "Darker" 80's/90s designs of the Turtles, take place after they get back to their NY after the Dark events they experienced in "Turtles Forever"?

[@dominikstarck5340]

Early '87 design is just too iconic. Especially in the intro sequence.

[@wilhelmtheconquerer6214]

The perfect designs for me would be: Base design: 2003, but more muscular like the 1987 version. They also have the reptilian spots and hand/fot wraps from the 2012 versions Leonardo: athletic body type, normal headband with long ties and pretty heavy on the battle scars. Leo is the cleanest looking of the boys. Donatello: long and skinny, normal headband with short ties and pretty light on the battle scars. Donnie also has a space between his front teeth and a sports bag with tools and various gadgets Raphael: huge and muscular, pirate headband with long ties, and loads of battle scars. Raph also has more torn hand wraps and bandana than the others Michelangelo: short and a bit chubby, pirate headband with short ties and minimal battle scars. Micky also has freckles to make him look younger

[@wilhelmtheconquerer6214]

@tyrone kinard yeah, well Michael Bay tried to go more in that direction and those turtles were hidious! They are suposed to be humanoid after all, not two legged ordinary turtles

[@TheHylden]

Loved the '87 look and the best was the original few episodes with the line for a beak down their nose that I wish would be prevalent on future designs of the turtles. The detail back then was so much better than the stylized stuff that came later. Nothing's perfect, sure they could have had longer headband ties in the back, etc., but these were the definitive turtles. I don't like the all-white eyes. You lose the connection to their personalities. It's probably why the 2003 version decided to add eyes later on.

[@husni1998]

Can you do a video about turtles design in video games ? you can separete them in tha same way 3d and 2d or a video comparing the design in 2 games like tmnt out of the shadows (xbox 360 ps3 and pc) vs tmnt in injustice 2

[@radioactivehuman1684]

For me personally mutants In Manhattan because idw style

[@husni1998]

@@radioactivehuman1684i love idw style its a shame that activision ruined the game i dont blame platnum for the game s falures

[@Ambaryerno]

All of the BEST TMNT games (especially the original Arcade, and SNES version of Turtles in Time) used the 87 Turtles. It's really no contest.

[@fbnflaviusbroadcastingnetw6786]

Husni Pimmentel is easily answer: the original Tmnt game for the NES.. just bigger darker and easier to look at ..like in the details. The others looked sloppy. The others in the Sega Genesis and Super Nintendo looked cool, but shoulda had more detail, and should’ve been darker. The others after, they were better but too brite and cartoony.

[@sicklygreyfoot]

I actually like 'Out of the Shadows.' The turtles design was weird and unorthodox, but it actually kind of worked. And the gameplay was fantastic. Never understood why that game wasn't more appreciated.

[@sonjaadamson1714]

Which ever Turtle design you like most is up to preference...but we all know that 2003 Shredder was and still is the fucking best.

[@collegerebel]

He did have the best look.

[@MirageTMNT80sOG]

These are both my favorite series. I’ve actually been watching the 03 turtles all day on KZbin lol

[@triforcepanda]

2003 is what I grew up with. They are my favourite turtle design, but the 87 ones will be around till the end of time

[@MGrey-qb5xz]

2003 designs and relations are basically the newly released urban legends and last ronin turtles. In my opinion it relates to older people more.

[@jeanette8606]

The first 5 episodes of 1987 series cells were drawn by Japanese animators. If you watch episodes like Enter The Shredder and Shredder and Splintered how much detail went into the techno drome , footsoldiers , bebop , rocksteady, Krang , Shredder all the turtles and futuristic weapons. All hand drawn , The 2003 series is great but just looked digital like everything else so 1987 version wins 💥

[@jeanette8606]

tyrone kinard Yes Toei were brought in to animate the first five episodes it as they only originally envisaged five episodes so quality and attention to detail was high. Most of the later series were badly animated and there were less science fiction concepts. Most of the David Wise written episodes were ok in later series but overall the quality declined with the exception of a few stand out episodes like Enter The Fly , Corporate Raiders from Dimension X , The old Switcheroo , cowabunga shredhead , the ninja sword of nowhere , Shredder triumphant and a few later ones had a story arcs like from series 7 The big rig off - the big break in and the big blow out and some of the red sky episodes but I think most people stopped watching it by then

[@johnmoya7654]

6:50 what animated short was that?

[@duboisbarbour8902]

I gotta to say the 2003 series on this one! 🎶1, 2, 3, 4! Teenage Mutant Ninja TURTLES!🎶

[@fbnflaviusbroadcastingnetw6786]

Dubois Barbour 🎶Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles! Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles! Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles! Heroes In A Half Shell; Turtle Power!🎶

[@duboisbarbour8902]

@@fbnflaviusbroadcastingnetw6786 Cowabunga!🐢💙 🐢💜 🐢❤ 🐢🧡

[@maximumshots1783]

forever 1987 and 2014 will always be my favorite

[@zachnewman3795]

Definitely loved both versions but 2003 seasons 1-4 had the best look and when TMNTFF and BTTS released they lost some 3D elements of the drawing making them feel flatter and somehow less well designed, I did like however that their body types did change looks from seasons 5-7 which each iteration is following sort of now with each turtle having his own unique body type.

[@MrGatsu]

Tmnt 2003: one of the very few golden nuggets found in the junkyard that is 4Kidz

[@BEDZILLA]

Finally someone who has spoken about the red sky episodes, I've been searching far and wide for someone to give those a mention. I'm wondering why that iteration wasn't used in Turtles Forever.....

[@MultiversePatroller1]

I grew up as a wee tot watching VHS tapes of the 80s Turtles show from Blockbuster (yes, I just dated myself), and I loved them dearly. But the 2003 series has always, ALWAYS been iconic to me in terms of design. Also storytelling, but we're focusing on the design of the team here, so that's what I'll focus on as well. I always preferred the longer tie-offs on the Turtles' headbands, as it allowed for significantly more dramatic and aesthetic possibilities as they went roof-running on patrol across New York City, or epic standoffs against the forces of evil lit against the chaos of a heinous, windswept thunderstorm. The initials on the belt buckles were never a favorite aspect of mine from the 80s series, and I actually appreciated the 2k3 series for losing the initial buckles in favor of the simple leather belts with the plain tie-off at the front, as well as the more believable leather pads for their knees and elbows. Plus, the white eyes were just infinitely cooler to me, having always been a huge fan of Batman: TAS from its initial run on Cartoon Network.

[@Queen_of_chaos]

I love this video! Well done! 💚💚

[@ptrap]

6:51 what TMNT film was that art style from?

[@blueblaze27]

My opinion on these designs: Original ‘87: it’s iconic, the masks, the body shape, the clothing, everything about these were pleasing to look at. A few things that bugged me is that the plastron and carapace don’t connect like how an actual turtle does (probably so the characters can move more freely) so far I think this design is an 8/10 for me. Red Sky Era: The added angles to the design were much better to give off that serious feeling of this era, they look more mature and a lot like a prototype version of the 2003 turtles. Overall it’s an 8.5/10 imo Original 2003 Version: it’s a lot like an amped up version of the Red Sky Era turtles like I mentioned earlier, albeit with different skin tones, full on white eyes and a taller and more muscular build. The only thing I have with it is that they look too....humanoid? I don’t know if it’s just me but in certain scenes their bodies look very awkward and way too big, but that’s just me. An overall 8/10 to me. Fast Forward Era: It’s not as great as the Original 2003 Turtles but they are pleasing to look at, the addition of those cool futuristic gear made them look cool to me, although they removed white eyes and replaced them with normal eyes, they’re still pretty cool to me and they get 8/10 imo BTTS Era: The design is more simple to draw with the addition on angular lines and the removal of certain features (as in there isn’t much detail drawn on the turtles) the normal eyes still stuck but I don’t hate it nor love it. 7.5/10 for me. Overall my favorite out of these are the Red Sky Era, they look simple but very action figure-ish and serious. I feel like they have a perfect build and imo the best design out of all the turtles shown in the video.

[@bluestormwyvern3954]

i watched ninja turtles back in the day myself, and at the time i liked that style, but now i prefer the 2003 version

[@ReviewsRankingswithRobbySobel]

I might be biased, but 87 for sure.

[@SoushinSen]

I was hoping you'd mention the height difference in Fast Forward, like Raph looking taller than the rest of the turtles, and also the disappearance of Leo's cracked shell.

[@Kj16V]

2003 all the way for me. Slightly off-topic on eyes. I loved the way the 2012 turtles eyes would turn white when they went in to "serious ninja" mode. Whenever that happened, you knew shit was about to go down!

[@hydrogenone6866]

6:49 Which short is that?

[@psyc0w0lf135]

Hydrogen One turtles take time and space

[@hydrogenone6866]

@@psyc0w0lf135, Thank you.

[@shinobi-Wan]

I grew up on the 80s cartoon and 90s movie designs and missed out on the 2003 redesigns but now as an adult I can really appreciate what they were trying to do in that 2003 era. Personally seeing that still of 80s cartoon mickey swooshing by with his nunchucks seals it for me. To me the turtles were all about personality and those 80s early 90s designs had it which is why they have lasted so long.

[@isaiahtyson1281]

Like 03 designs purely for the long tailed mask but the 87 designs take the win here

[@freakzeke6404]

The 87 Turtles had a better transition of styles than 2003 which started out better than it ended.

[@auzinsss1665]

What is that animated short you mentioned when talking about the 2003 design? Havent seen it, looks dope.

[@JasonRainwater]

When it comes to the 1987 and 2003 shows, for me personally, each style of animation has its own special place. Because I around the ages of 8-13 when I watched the 87 version, and enjoyed the brightness and overall kid friendly look of that show. When the 2003 show came out, I was may 23 or 24, and appreciated that the new TMNT series matured (in a sense, grew up) with me. The 87 version has more nostalgic power over me, but the 2003 version nailed the vibe that should come from mutant turtles that trained in the art of ninjutsu. So it's complicated for my senses to compare the two different animation styles because each one served my preference at the time it aired. I can still watch both series and enjoy them for what they are :)

[@LeopoldLitchenstein]

I'm biased as hell, so I'm gonna have to go with the 2003 designs. 80s cartoon look is for sure more iconic though

[@Eldenrucidor]

I kinda split the 87 cartoon in three categories. The 5 first episodes (Season 1), then Season 2 - 7, and finally Season 8-10 (Red sky)- So for me my favorite animated Turtles design list would look like this. 1- 87 - Season 1 2 - 2003 3 - 87 - Red sky 4 - 87 - Season 2-7 5 - Back to the Sewer 6 - Fast Forward

[@jeanette8606]

Hans 1987 season 1 animation was the best

[@benwasilewski]

I'd like to know where you got that shot of a full shelf of NECA TMNT figures! Never seen anywhere near that many available at once lol

[@powerturtlebusters]

Heres the truth, all the promo art been awesome, 87 to 2012 even next mutation, but the only turtles that has marketable staying power seem to be the 87 ones. The designs are so iconic that it never gets stale and the 2012 series seem like they wanted to be the 87 series so bad, but even their merch has come and gone. For whatever reason i never took to the 03 animation style. I watched, but never took to it. Same for 2012 team.

[@fbnflaviusbroadcastingnetw6786]

powerturtlebusters and Casey Jones in the 2003 is as much annoying as Mikey in the 2012... sad but true.

[@fbnflaviusbroadcastingnetw6786]

powerturtlebusters and in both, 2003 and 2012, what the hell was wrong with Raph?? They took his introvert, lone wolf, rebellious, “question every thing” attitude, and made it stereotypical (all I’ll say) in both as well, not merely hot tempered. the 87 Raph was rude crude and sarcastic.. but as the rest, with the rest, he was cool, and Leo was an arrogant ass here and therefore rarely.. which was funny, and both almost came to blows in a red sky Turtles episode where Leo got afraid and backed down when Raph challenged him and Leo talked smack back, but overall they all were more fluid and seemed close in the 86 series.

[@fbnflaviusbroadcastingnetw6786]

powerturtlebusters and why (how) can Raphael always be angry when we was never given even a clue as to know why?? Not even the first movie explained why he was so pissed off.

[@KunckleSando]

Anyone have any idea where I can find the 2003 version on dvd or is it only streamable at this point?

[@82517]

What the vid at 6:50? Never seen it before?

[@ns2joel]

I'll always love the 87 design, 2003 started off good but they messed it up and I can't really stand the way the more modern cartoons versions look.

[@berniedavis6676]

My fave animated designs for the turtles are the 1984 mirage comics 'prime' turtles from the turtles forever movie. I wanted to see more of those turtles.

[@pferreira1983]

The animation for the 2003 series was more consistent yet the general designs of the FW series was better in style.

[@SpiritFighter900]

I really do love both of them! Maybe 2003 just a little tiny bit more, but I love how crazy different both of them are.

[@8darkknight472]

Nothing beats originality

[@ChaoticCooper]

In the later seasons of the 87 show the designs were kinda like a cartoon version of the Secret of The Ooze designs. It has the dark colors, but also has brighter colors on the masks, just like the Secret of The Ooze designs. I think the 2nd designs for 87 are great.

[@samuraiequanimity7245]

Just to clarify Donatello took his headband off in the 03 version in season 4 episode 25 and they do have pupils, they're masks just give them that all white eye look, which I love.

[@arsham1681]

6:53 can u name this animation pleeaassseee

[@orinanime]

My favorite design comes from the 1987 series but not the original designs my favorite designs are from the 1990s Red Sky redesign. I do love the original 1987 intro and season 1 designs though. They're probably my second favorite Judy designs overall. The 2003 designs are my third favorite 2D animated Turtles designs. But the subsequent redesigns that occurred later in that series or all awful in my opinion.

[@gezi5927]

I really enjoy the 2003 style, it’s badass but they do look too similar.

[@geeked-outturtlesfan4288]

I'd prefer either these version over the new one, whick looks terrible

[@paulgilbert5278]

@B Star 2012 or the modern one?

[@geeked-outturtlesfan4288]

@@paulgilbert5278 the newest one that started about a year ago. The animation looks like COMPLETE SHIT.

[@geeked-outturtlesfan4288]

@A Crystal Shard not going to watch that embarrassment to the TMNT. Animation and looks like shit

[@geeked-outturtlesfan4288]

@A Crystal Shard No I haven't and I refused to watch the new "Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles". The animation looks horrible compared to the 1987, 2003 and the 2012 Nickelodeon series. Look at Raph and Donnie's headbands. They look like the awful next Mutation/Michael Bay crappy turtles. Raph looks fat and out of shape and the rest look like 13 year old boys who just lift enough weights to actually not look like twigs. Nah I'm not going to watch something that just regressed the turtles look backwards. I'll watch the older series

[@geeked-outturtlesfan4288]

@A Crystal Shard I don't need to use drugs to know that drugs are addicting and bad. I've seen the animation and I rejected it from the beginning because if you can't even get the animation to improve on the previous incarnations how can you expect me to follow and respect the new ones. That was one of the knocks on the Michael Bay TMNT. I didn't need to watch it to know it'd fail because the bad CGI showed that the person directing it had no idea what he was doing and wasn't familiar with the franchise. No that's not being biased due to being a fan of the original series that's just common sense. If I madea Batman cartoon where he didn't look like Batman or looked worse than the animation in Batman: The Animated series, I'd expect Batman fans to not show interest because that person already showed he or she had no idea what they are doing. I think the new cartoon animation looks awful compared to the previous Nickelodeon series that had smoother edges and rounder faces similar to the turtles in the past. They look too cartoonist, have awful headbands, their bodies look odd and just clunky and faces look just ridiculous If you can't do something as SIMPLE as making the animation better than the last (but still remaining unique to the old-school versions) then I'm not going to support something just for the sake of it. If people would've done that with the Michael Bay films then we wouldn't have had a desperate sequel that tried to undo the mistakes of the first film. And I think the animation sucks and from everything I have heard (From Raph now being the leader to the voices of the turtles 👎🏿) I'm never going to watch it.

[@mostafafarweez3161]

That's Really Great :) I like this video a lot. And I prefer the 2003 series and look of the turtles before they had their eyes. And I also didn't like the final look of the turtles in the original series when it was coming to an end. Please do videos on the current issues of ninja turtles when they morphed into the mighty morphin power rangers, and the animation comparisons of the original and 2003 series :) Stay safe :)

[@chrish7983]

I think both of these designs are great and the best two of the TMNT cartoons. I wish the 03 original designs had pupils...something about the all white eyes makes the Turtles feel too alien. So slight edge to 87 for me, especially season 1.

[@slinger0083]

As iconic as ‘87 is, ‘03 is my favorite design.

[@Norbe51909]

Cartoon 87 and TMNT Movie 90 are Classics won't never go out of style.

[@raino187]

Nothing better then the og

[@jamesoblivion]

It's weird, if you look at the 87 Turtles from the actual cartoon, and the ones that were, and still are, in all the merch, the designs (and especially coloring) are different. I also like the look with the line down the...snout, beak, whatever. haha That didn't last long, though.