If you’re diving into the world of anime, chances are you’ve crossed paths with the fan-favorite series, Boruto. This anime phenomenon is essentially the coming-of-age tale of Boruto Uzumaki, the son of Naruto, as he navigates the perils and pleasures of ninja life. But if you’re tuning in to catch all 293 episodes (as of March 2023), buckle up! You’re in for more than just a casual anime binge. This show is a maze of episodes with a mix of critical plot points, jaw-dropping action scenes, and—well—fillers. So, how do you discern what’s essential to the storyline and what’s not? Let’s unpack this.
What Exactly is a Filler Anyway?
Let’s get one thing straight: In the anime community, the term “filler” might as well be a four-letter word. It denotes any episode that deviates from the original manga narrative crafted by Masashi Kishimoto and Ukyō Kodachi.
This also includes anime canon and partial canon episodes unless they strictly adhere to the manga storyline. But before you start skipping episodes, let’s dig deeper into the stats.
As of March 2023, “Boruto: Naruto Next Generations” boasts a whopping 293 episodes. Surprisingly, only 30 of these are “complete fillers.” However, a jaw-dropping 75%—that’s 222 episodes—include fillers, anime-original stories, or partially canon narratives.
Navigating the Filler Labyrinth: Episodes You Can (Possibly) Skip
Alright, we get it. You want to get to the good stuff and maybe skip the side tracks. But before you hit that “Skip” button, know this: Boruto’s filler episodes contribute significantly to the series’ storyline, unlike many other animes.
This makes it a bit tricky to skip episodes without missing some of the overall narrative nuances.
That said, there are episodes that lack a direct link to the central plot and could potentially be skipped:
- Crisis: The Threat of Failing! (Episode 16)
- Run, Sarada! (Episode 17)
- Team 7: The First Mission (Episode 40)
- Strength in Unity (Episode 41)
OFFICIAL: Boruto TV Anime Part 1 will end on March 26, 2023 with Ep293! Part 2 of the Anime is already in the works and set to release in the future.
Further, in celebration of the Naruto Anime's 20th Anniversary, A Brand-New Anime Project is set to start in September!! pic.twitter.com/BIW7tntXxL
— Abdul Zoldyck (@Abdul_S17) March 9, 2023
To Skip or Not To Skip: The Eternal Debate
The conundrum of whether to skip Boruto fillers is essentially a subjective choice.
Some episodes offer enjoyable diversions and provide richer context to the main plot. For those who want a curated experience, some episodes are tagged as “Watch” to help identify the entertaining fillers. If you’re someone who enjoys a complete experience, perhaps skipping isn’t for you. Either way, you have options, and that’s the beauty of it.
Why Fillers Aren’t the Enemy: A Balanced Perspective
Let’s level with each other. Fillers in Boruto aren’t just padding; they offer golden opportunities to explore secondary characters, enhance relationships, and amplify the world-building.
Understanding the number and purpose of these fillers can help viewers approach the series from a balanced perspective.
It’s not just about the main story; it’s about the entire tapestry that makes Boruto the captivating series it is.
Final Curtain: A Tale of Choices
In the grand scheme of things, Boruto offers viewers more than just a ninja adventure; it offers choices. Whether you’re a stickler for main story arcs or you love diving into the hidden corners of the Boruto universe, there’s something for everyone. While some may see the abundance of fillers as a pacing hiccup, others will find them a delightful addition that enriches the overall experience.
So grab some popcorn, cue up your favorite streaming service, and enter the world of Boruto with eyes wide open. Because, honestly, when it comes to Boruto, even the fillers can pack a punch.
