NECA Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (The Last Ronin) – Ultimate Splinter

Description

From the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comic book series, The Last Ronin! In a future NYC far different than the one we know today; a lone surviving Turtle goes on a seemingly hopeless mission to obtain justice for his fallen family and friends. Based on issue #4 of the comic, the Splinter figure figure stands in 7” scale with over 20 points of articulation, and includes staff, katana and sheath, interchangeable hands, and interchangeable forearms so Splinter can be displayed with clean or ripped sleeves. Comes in collector-friendly window box packaging with opening flap featuring a custom illustration by The Last Ronin artist Ben Bishop.

The NECA (National Entertainment Collectibles Association) Splinter figure from the “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin” comic book series is a highly detailed and emotionally resonant representation of the Turtles’ sensei in his final days. This figure captures the aged, battle-worn, and ultimately tragic version of Splinter as depicted in the acclaimed comic.

Description:

NECA’s Last Ronin Splinter figure portrays the wise rat master in a state we’ve rarely seen: frail, aged, and bearing the scars of a life dedicated to protecting his sons. The sculpt emphasizes his advanced age, with wrinkles, a thinner frame, and a long, flowing white beard. His traditional robes are tattered and worn, reflecting the grim reality of the Last Ronin’s world. Despite his physical decline, there’s a profound sense of dignity and sadness in his expression. He carries the weight of loss and the hope he places in his last surviving son.

The figure often comes with accessories that highlight his wisdom and connection to his fallen sons. This might include his walking stick, perhaps a journal or memento related to each Turtle, and possibly even swappable hands to depict him in different poses of contemplation or guidance. The paintwork is crucial in conveying his age and the harsh environment of the Last Ronin’s New York, with subtle washes and details bringing out the textures of his fur and clothing.

Product Details (Based on typical NECA releases for this line):

• Character: Splinter (The Last Ronin Version)
• Source Material: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin comic book series
• Manufacturer: NECA (National Entertainment Collectibles Association)  
• Scale: 7-inch scale (typically around 6-7 inches tall, relative to the other Last Ronin figures)  
• Articulation: NECA figures are known for their excellent articulation, and this Splinter figure will likely feature:
  • Ball-jointed head for expressive movement.
  • Swivel and hinge joints at the shoulders and elbows.
  • Wrist articulation.
  • Torso articulation (waist swivel, ab crunch).
  • Hip articulation.
  • Double-jointed knees.
  • Ankle articulation with pivots and rockers for stability.
• Accessories (Likely Inclusions):
  • Walking Stick/Cane: A crucial accessory reflecting his age and frailty.
  • Journal/Scroll: Possibly featuring artwork or symbolic representations of his lost sons.
  • Interchangeable Hands: Multiple sets of hands for different poses (holding his cane, gesturing, etc.).  
  • Possible Additional Items: This could include a small figure of a younger version of one of the Turtles, or a symbolic item representing their bond.
• Packaging: Collector-friendly window box packaging with artwork and design elements inspired by “The Last Ronin” comic. The packaging often includes a flap that opens to reveal the figure and accessories.  
• Material: PVC plastic
• Release Date: (You’ll need to check specific retailer listings for the exact release date and availability, as NECA release schedules can vary).

Why This Figure is Significant:

• Emotionally Resonant: Captures a poignant and rarely seen side of Splinter.
• Comic Accuracy: Faithfully based on the artwork and portrayal in “The Last Ronin.”
• High Detail and Articulation: NECA’s commitment to detail and poseability makes this a highly desirable figure for collectors.
• Completes the Set: Essential for fans collecting the NECA Last Ronin figures, adding the crucial mentor to the lineup.

If you’re a fan of “The Last Ronin” and appreciate NECA’s quality, this Splinter figure is a must-have to complete your collection and honor the fallen sensei. Be sure to check with your favorite retailers for pre-order or availability information.

In the context of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin, Master Splinter is already deceased, having passed away sometime before the main events of the story. However, his presence and influence are deeply felt throughout the narrative, primarily through flashbacks, memories, and the surviving Turtle’s internal monologue.

Here’s a description of Splinter as he is portrayed in the flashbacks and as remembered by the Last Ronin:

Appearance (in Flashbacks):

• Traditional Depiction: He retains his classic look: a humanoid rat with brown fur, wise and gentle eyes, and a long beard. He is often depicted wearing his traditional martial arts robes.
• Age and Wisdom: Even in the flashbacks within the grim future, Splinter carries an air of aged wisdom and serenity. His posture is often calm and composed, reflecting his disciplined nature.

Personality and Role:

• Loving Father and Sensei: Splinter’s primary role is that of a devoted father to his four sons. He is fiercely protective and deeply cares for their well-being, both physically and emotionally.
• Patient and Wise Teacher: He is the unwavering guiding force in their lives, imparting not only martial arts skills but also crucial life lessons, emphasizing honor, discipline, and the importance of family.
• Philosophical and Reflective: Splinter is often shown offering insightful advice and philosophical perspectives on their unique existence and their place in the world. He instills in them a sense of purpose and responsibility.
• Bearer of Tradition: He represents the Hamato Ninjutsu tradition, diligently passing down his knowledge and the values associated with it to his sons.
• A Source of Comfort and Guidance (in Memory): For the Last Ronin, Splinter’s memory serves as a constant source of comfort, guidance, and motivation. In moments of despair or uncertainty, the surviving Turtle often reflects on his father’s teachings and words of wisdom.
• A Symbol of What Was Lost: Splinter’s absence is a stark reminder of the tragic events that led to the desolate future. His death is a significant loss that deeply impacts the Last Ronin’s journey and fuels his quest for vengeance.

Influence on the Last Ronin:

• Martial Arts Prowess: The surviving Turtle’s exceptional fighting skills are a direct result of Splinter’s rigorous training.
• Moral Compass: Splinter’s teachings on honor and justice continue to guide the Last Ronin’s actions, even in the morally ambiguous world he inhabits.
• Emotional Anchor: Despite his grief and anger, the Last Ronin’s love for his father and his memories of their bond provide him with an emotional anchor and a reason to keep fighting.

In essence, while physically absent in the present timeline of The Last Ronin, Master Splinter’s character is crucial to the narrative. He is portrayed as the loving father, wise teacher, and moral compass whose legacy profoundly shapes the actions and motivations of the lone surviving Ninja Turtle. His memory serves as a poignant reminder of the vibrant past that has been tragically lost.