NYCC 2014: Best of TMNT

New York Comic Con shattered previous attendance records by selling a whopping 151,000 tickets. With endless hoards of people roaming the event space, you'd think it would be tough spotting TMNT paraphernalia. Luckily, Turtle Power was in full swing this year. The green machine presence was strong - making the event an absolute blast for fans.

What were the best TMNT moments of NYCC? Here's a wrap up.

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Only a few years ago, the TMNT universe was in turmoil. There wasn't a television series or movie to keep us entertained. As a result, comic conventions were light on Turtle Power. But since Nickelodeon took the reins, Turtle fans have become spoiled. Now at conventions, we're treated to stellar panels and interactive booths.

This year, the TMNT panel was once again a success. Fans got to hear from show creators and the voice actors.

In addition to the interesting behind-the-scenes anecdotes, attendees got an exclusive peek at what's in the pipeline for the television series. What had the crowd cheering?

HUN. The character from the 2K3 series returns with a reimagined look. Instead of a big, beefy brute, Hun will now be a slick, martial arts master. His stylish shades and swift moves are clearly an homage to Bruce Lee.

As a huge fan of everything kung fu, I LOVE this new design. Flipping the original character concept on its ear is a unique and original idea.

SPEED DEMON DONATELLO. The Nickelodeon series is going to get even wackier. Attendees got a glimpse of bizarre concept art for an upcoming episode that somehow transforms Donatello into an a motorized mutant.

With spark plugs lodged in his shell and exhaust pipes protruding from his tongue, Speed Demon Donatello feels like a throwback to the zany action figures from the 80's & 90's. He's a 4-wheeled hybrid of a TMNT figure and a Madball. This will certainly make for an interesting episode.

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One of the best parts of Comic Con is the opportunity to rub elbows with your personal heroes. At the IDW booth, show creators and the voice actors from the Nickelodeon series were signing autographs for fans.

An exclusive 2014 Comic Con poster was given out at the event. Ciro Neili (show creator, executive producer) & Brandon Auman (head writer) signed mine.

Stashed in my backpack, I smuggled in an exclusive Comic Con poster given out last year. But this year, I was lucky enough to have the voice actors sign it for me; Rob Paulsen (Donatello), Greg Cipes (Michelangelo), & Eric Bauza (Tiger Claw).

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TMNT fans love their action figures. They were a massive success with the original series and the momentum is strong once again. People are now willing to spend money more than ever for this kind of collectible.

At NYCC, Good Smile Company had their upcoming statue set on display. And it was a beaut.

Based on the artwork of James Jean, which is currently on display at The Bottleneck Art Gallery's TMNT exhibit, the statues depict the Turtles in an awesome, artful style.

Even the unfinished sculpts are jaw-dropping.

From the flowing bandannas to the damage on the weapons, the detail is incredible. These statues will likely be pricey, but difficult for fans to pass up.

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Everyone leaves Comic Con with less money from when they arrived. The aisles are lined with toys, comics, and original artwork - making it impossible to avoid a purchase. Although I saw plenty of Turtle merch, I only shelled out cash for one souvenir.

This TMNT mug is a beast. It holds an excessive amount of beverage. And that's why I bought it. I drink a LOT of water. With this mug, I can fill up, set it on my desk, and have it last.

It also compliments my 3D coffee mug quite nicely!

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Everyone loves seeing their favorite iconic characters in life-size form. Nickelodeon gave fans the opportunity to snap a photo with the 6 foot green guys.

Whether you're an old school or a new fan of TMNT, it's an amusing moment that cannot be missed. Striking a ninja pose with giant Turtles is pure, silly fun - even if you are 30 years old!

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New York Comic Con was loaded with cowabunga. If you missed out on the event, don't fret. There's always next year!