The final episode of Naruto Shippuden available on Netflix varies depending on your region. However, as of the latest updates, Netflix typically carries Naruto Shippuden up to episode 363, covering the Pain’s Invasion Arc and stopping before the Fourth Shinobi World War reaches its climax.
The End and The Beginning: Understanding the Netflix Cut
Netflix’s curated content libraries are often subject to licensing agreements that dictate which shows are available and for how long. This means that the ending point of Naruto Shippuden on Netflix might differ drastically between countries, or even change over time as contracts are renegotiated. This discrepancy can leave fans confused about where to pick up the story.
Therefore, while Netflix may contain significant portions of Naruto Shippuden, it is crucial to know where the story ends on that specific platform so you can continue the narrative elsewhere.
Why Isn’t the Entire Series Available?
Content licensing is the primary culprit. Anime licensing is often handled region by region, with different companies holding the rights to stream and distribute shows in different territories. Netflix must negotiate individually for these rights, and sometimes, securing the rights for the entire series or specific seasons proves difficult or financially unviable. Also, other streaming services like Crunchyroll or Hulu might have exclusivity agreements for certain episodes or arcs, further limiting Netflix’s available catalog.
Continuing the Journey: Where to Watch the Remaining Episodes
If you’ve reached episode 363 (or wherever Naruto Shippuden ends on your local Netflix) and are eager to continue, several options are available:
- Crunchyroll: Widely regarded as the go-to streaming platform for anime, Crunchyroll often offers the complete Naruto Shippuden series, including all the episodes missing from Netflix. A subscription is generally required, but they sometimes offer free streaming with ads.
- Hulu: Depending on your region, Hulu might offer the entire Naruto Shippuden series. Check their catalog to confirm availability.
- Viz Media: The official distributor of Naruto in North America, Viz Media, sometimes offers streaming options through their website or affiliated platforms.
- Blu-ray/DVD: For the true collector (and those without reliable internet), purchasing the Naruto Shippuden Blu-ray or DVD sets ensures access to the complete series.
- Other Streaming Services: Explore other regional streaming services. Sites like Funimation (now merged with Crunchyroll) or smaller platforms in your region might carry the full series.
Beware of Unofficial Sources
While tempting, relying on unofficial streaming sites or downloading episodes from unverified sources poses several risks, including:
- Copyright Infringement: Downloading or streaming content illegally violates copyright laws and could lead to legal repercussions.
- Malware and Viruses: Unofficial websites are often breeding grounds for malware, viruses, and other malicious software that can compromise your device and personal data.
- Poor Video Quality: Illegally obtained content often suffers from low video quality, ruining the viewing experience.
- Lack of Subtitles/Dubbing: You may struggle to find subtitles or dubbing in your preferred language, hindering comprehension.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Naruto Shippuden and Netflix
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the situation and provide additional information:
1. Does Netflix have all the Naruto Shippuden movies?
Generally, Netflix does not have all the Naruto Shippuden movies. Like the series itself, the availability of Naruto Shippuden movies on Netflix varies by region and is subject to licensing agreements. Checking your local Netflix catalog is the best way to determine which movies are currently available.
2. Why does the Naruto Shippuden episode count on Netflix differ from other platforms?
This is due to the aforementioned licensing agreements. Netflix only secures the rights to stream a certain number of episodes or seasons at a time. Other platforms like Crunchyroll or Hulu might have different agreements that allow them to offer a more complete or different selection of episodes.
3. What arcs of Naruto Shippuden are typically covered on Netflix?
Generally, Netflix covers the arcs leading up to and including the Pain’s Invasion arc. This usually encompasses the search for Sasuke, the Akatsuki’s rise, and the epic battle in Konoha. This means you’ll see storylines involving Sasori, Deidara, Hidan, Kakuzu, and ultimately Pain.
4. Will Netflix ever get the remaining episodes of Naruto Shippuden?
It’s impossible to say definitively. Whether Netflix acquires the rights to stream the remaining episodes depends on their ongoing negotiations with the rights holders. Fan demand can sometimes influence these decisions, so expressing interest to Netflix’s customer service can be helpful.
5. What episode does the Fourth Shinobi World War start in Naruto Shippuden?
The Fourth Shinobi World War officially begins around episode 261 of Naruto Shippuden (Shippuden Episode 261: For My Friend). However, the build-up to the war starts much earlier, with various events and foreshadowing hinting at the impending conflict. The war concludes well after the point where Netflix commonly stops showing episodes.
6. Is the Naruto original series available on Netflix?
Like Shippuden, the availability of the original Naruto series on Netflix depends on your region. Check your local Netflix catalog to confirm if it is available. It’s more likely that other streaming services specializing in anime will carry the original Naruto series.
7. What’s the difference between “filler” and “canon” episodes in Naruto Shippuden?
Canon episodes follow the original manga storyline, written by Masashi Kishimoto. Filler episodes are anime-exclusive content, not found in the manga. While filler can sometimes be entertaining, it doesn’t contribute to the main plot. Many viewers choose to skip filler episodes to focus on the core story.
8. How can I tell which episodes are filler in Naruto Shippuden?
Many websites and online resources provide episode lists identifying filler content. A simple Google search for “Naruto Shippuden filler list” will yield numerous options. These lists typically categorize episodes as canon, filler, or a mix of both (“canon/filler”).
9. Is there a chronological watch order for Naruto, Naruto Shippuden, and the movies?
Yes, there is a preferred chronological order to best understand the story and character development. Following this order helps avoid plot holes and ensures a smoother viewing experience. Many online guides detail the optimal viewing order, including which movies fit where in the timeline.
10. What streaming services are best for watching anime like Naruto and Naruto Shippuden?
Crunchyroll is generally considered the best streaming service for anime, offering a vast library of titles, including Naruto, Naruto Shippuden, and Boruto. Hulu is another viable option, although its anime catalog may be smaller. Check the specific content available in your region.
11. What is Boruto: Naruto Next Generations and is it on Netflix?
Boruto: Naruto Next Generations is the sequel series to Naruto Shippuden, following the adventures of Naruto’s son, Boruto Uzumaki. Whether Boruto is available on Netflix also depends on your region and licensing agreements. Crunchyroll is a likely place to find this series.
12. What is the best way to avoid spoilers for Naruto Shippuden if I can’t watch it all at once?
The best way to avoid spoilers is to limit your exposure to online forums, social media groups, and comment sections related to Naruto Shippuden until you’ve finished watching the series. Consider using browser extensions or filters to block keywords related to the show. Also, be wary of YouTube thumbnails and titles.