Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Tactical Takedown Brings Strategic Action to Nintendo Switch

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Tactical Takedown arrives on Nintendo Switch on August 14, 2025, marking a new chapter for the iconic heroes in a half-shell.

Developed and published by Strange Scaffold, this eagerly anticipated title introduces fans to a strategic, turn-based take on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) universe, blending a board game-inspired format with classic beat ’em up action. Building on a legacy of cartoons, films, comics, and acclaimed games, Tactical Takedown sets itself apart by advancing the narrative timeline.

In this story-driven outing, Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Raphael are navigating life after the defeat of their longtime nemesis, Shredder, and the loss of their mentor, Master Splinter.

The brothers have drifted apart: Raphael now patrols the city alongside Casey Jones, Donatello operates as a solo vigilante, Michelangelo remains at the sewer lair, and Leonardo has vanished from the scene.

Their separation is felt throughout a branching four-chapter campaign, each section spotlighting a different turtle with distinctive play styles and abilities. Tactical Takedown’s gameplay is a fusion of tactical favorites, reminiscent of the grid-based combat in titles like Fire Emblem and South Park: The Fractured but Whole.

Players must guide their chosen turtle through the rooftops, streets, and sewers of New York City, confronting the resurging Foot Clan—now directed by Karai and a digitally-revived Baxter Stockman.

Each mission features a fixed protagonist, but players can customize that hero’s combat abilities by unlocking new moves with in-game currency earned through progression. Unique to this Switch exclusive is the ability to instantaneously defeat foes by knocking them off ledges, adding a dynamic twist to the turn-based formula.

Every action, from movement to executing special techniques, is governed by Action Points (AP), pushing players to think strategically about resource management each round.

For instance, Michelangelo excels at hit-and-run tactics, Donatello employs gadgets and traps, Raphael leverages brute strength to draw enemies in, and Leonardo channels stat boosts for devastating attacks. Longtime TMNT fans will appreciate the game’s character design, which melds the nostalgia of the 1980s animated series with stylistic touches inspired by the 2003 4Kids adaptation.

The game’s concise main campaign can be completed in seven to eight hours, enriched by a robust Remix Mode that introduces new challenges, tougher enemies, and shuffled stage layouts, maximizing replay value for completionists and those craving retro arcade-style scores. While the in-game music is tailored to each environment, some players may find certain tracks less memorable.

The absence of voice acting might disappoint fans familiar with iconic TMNT performances, but the dialog remains authentic and character-driven.

One area where Tactical Takedown shines is in the diversity of missions, high-score incentives, and content unlocks—including alternate movesets and soundtrack selections from the in-game shop. In summary, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Tactical Takedown stands out as an engaging, visually distinct strategy title on Nintendo Switch.

Despite minor drawbacks related to music and voice work, the game's compelling mechanics, replayability, and faithful treatment of the TMNT franchise make it a strong recommendation—particularly for fans eager to experience the turtles in a fresh, tactical light.

Priced at $20 on the Nintendo eShop, it’s an accessible addition to the Switch library and a notable achievement for Strange Scaffold, further cementing the continuing appeal of the TMNT across generations.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Strange Scaffold Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Tactical Takedown Tactical Takedown TMNT Foot Clan Casey Jones Baxter Stockman Karai Master Splinter Shredder