The Naruto Phenomenon: Not Just Another Anime
When people talk about anime that have transcended cultural borders, one name often leads the pack—Naruto. With an epic tale spanning a whopping 720 episodes, movies, specials, and OVAs, this anime series has not only introduced us to some of the most unforgettable characters but also to a universe filled with lore, ninja tactics, and life philosophies.
Naruto’s Staggering Scale: Why You Need This Guide
“The entire series of Naruto ran for an astounding 720 episodes, and then there were movies, specials, and OVAs for die-hard fans.”
As if the length wasn’t intimidating enough, the series has also been enriched with multiple story arcs, each filled with a plethora of characters. So, where does a rookie—or even a seasoned fan looking for a rewatch—start? That’s where this guide swoops in, as your sensei, to navigate you through the labyrinthine world of Naruto.
Getting Your Bearings: Understanding the Naruto Structure
The Naruto franchise is divided into two mega arcs: The first is the original Naruto series with 220 episodes, and the second is Naruto Shippuden, boasting another 500 episodes. And let’s not forget the ongoing saga of Boruto, although that’s a story for another day.
Watch It Your Way: Release Order Vs. Chronological Order
Release Order: For the Purists
If you want to experience Naruto the way the world did, start with the release order:
- Naruto (2002-07)
- Naruto: Shippuden (2007-17)
- Boruto: Naruto Next Generations (2017)
Chronological Order: For the Detail-Oriented
If you’re the type who likes to see events unfold chronologically, the series offers a straightforward timeline, uncluttered by confusing side arcs. Below is a thorough list to guide you through:
Extra Treats: Movies, Specials, and OVAs
The Naruto universe doesn’t just stop at the episodes.
“If you want to watch them as is, you can go ahead without wasting a moment,”
but you may want to consider the OVAs and specials that occasionally tie into the main story. The one must-watch? “The Day Naruto Became the Hokage,” because, let’s face it, who wouldn’t want to witness that monumental moment?
Fighting the Filler: Skip or Watch?
“The Naruto series has concluded, and you can completely ignore the filler episodes and binge-watch the canon episodes without breaking the flow of the main storyline!”
If you were watching the series during its original run, the filler episodes were almost like unscheduled pit stops. But now, you can zoom past them if you choose to!
After the Last Battle: What’s Next?
After 720 episodes and numerous extras, you may be left craving for more action in the shinobi world. That’s when you venture into Boruto, the tale of the new generation of ninjas.
“If it’s the latter and you want to watch more of the world of ninjas, you can start watching Boruto: Naruto Next Generations.”
It should be common knowledge that Naruto has the best 1st ep in all of anime and it's not even close pic.twitter.com/5XKCYua2Pw
— Konfal👁️🗨️ (@Konfal05) September 9, 2023
Final Words
In a universe as expansive as Naruto’s, it’s easy to get lost. Hopefully, this guide has been the chakra-infused map you needed. Now, go on and explore the intricate world of Naruto, and may your journey be as epic as Naruto Uzumaki’s quest to become Hokage.
