So you want to enter the world of ninjas, hidden villages, and epic battles? You've decided to embark on the legendary journey of watching Naruto! But with movies, specials, and filler episodes scattered across various seasons, figuring out the optimal viewing order can feel overwhelming. Fear not, fellow shinobi-in-training! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best way to watch Naruto, ensuring you don't miss a crucial moment in this iconic anime saga.
The Essential Naruto Watch Order:
This order prioritizes the main narrative, minimizing filler and maximizing enjoyment.
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Naruto (2002): Begin with the original Naruto series. This is where it all begins, introducing you to Naruto Uzumaki, his dream of becoming Hokage, and the vibrant world of ninjas.
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Naruto Shippuden (2007): After completing the original Naruto series, seamlessly transition into Naruto Shippuden. This marks a significant time jump, with Naruto significantly stronger and facing more complex challenges.
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Naruto Shippuden Movies (Select): While many Naruto movies are non-canon (meaning they don't directly impact the main storyline), some offer compelling side stories and character development. The most commonly recommended movie to watch is "Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire." Others can be enjoyed afterwards, but aren't crucial to understanding the overall narrative.
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Boruto: Naruto Next Generations (2017): Once you've finished Naruto Shippuden, you can continue the story with Boruto. This series focuses on the next generation of ninjas, including Naruto's son, Boruto Uzumaki.
Dealing with Filler Episodes:
Filler episodes are episodes that don't follow the manga storyline. While some filler can be enjoyable, many viewers prefer to skip them to maintain narrative flow. There are many online resources and filler episode guides available that list which episodes are filler and which are canon. Use these to effectively navigate your watch and avoid unnecessary detours!
Tips for an Optimal Naruto Watching Experience:
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Find a reliable streaming platform: Ensure you choose a platform with high-quality video and audio, and one that allows easy navigation through episodes.
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Take breaks: The Naruto series is extensive. Don't feel pressured to binge-watch it all at once. Give yourself time to process the story and enjoy the journey.
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Engage with the community: Connect with other Naruto fans online. Discussions and theories can enhance your viewing experience.
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Don't be afraid to skip filler: As mentioned before, utilizing filler guides can drastically improve the viewing experience by streamlining the main narrative.
Why This Order Matters:
Following this suggested order ensures a cohesive and engaging narrative. Starting with the original Naruto series provides the necessary foundation for understanding the characters, their motivations, and the overarching plot. Jumping into Shippuden without this foundation could lead to confusion.
Conclusion: Embark on Your Ninja Journey!
The world of Naruto awaits! With this guide, you're equipped to navigate the vast landscape of this beloved anime and embark on an unforgettable journey. Get ready for intense battles, emotional character arcs, and a story that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Now go forth, young shinobi, and enjoy the adventure!
