The last definitively canon episode of Naruto Shippuden is episode 479, “Naruto Uzumaki.” This episode concludes the main storyline adaptation from the manga and marks the end of the Fourth Shinobi World War.
Understanding Canon and Filler in Naruto
One of the biggest debates surrounding Naruto, particularly Naruto Shippuden, revolves around the concept of canon and filler. Canon refers to material that directly originates from, and is considered part of, Masashi Kishimoto’s original manga series. Filler, on the other hand, encompasses episodes or story arcs created by the anime studio, Studio Pierrot, to either expand upon existing manga material or to provide a break between adapting particularly intense or consequential manga chapters.
While some filler episodes can be entertaining and offer character development, they are generally not considered essential to the core narrative and can sometimes contradict established plot points or character arcs. This is why knowing the last canon episode is crucial for those wanting to experience the authentic Naruto story.
The Significance of Episode 479: “Naruto Uzumaki”
Episode 479 is significant because it depicts the conclusion of Naruto and Sasuke’s final battle. It showcases the culmination of their journey from rivals to understanding comrades, and ultimately, friends. This fight, adapted directly from the manga, is a crucial turning point in their relationship and in the overall theme of the series – reconciliation and understanding. The episode also sets the stage for the epilogue arc, which provides glimpses into the characters’ future lives.
Navigating the Post-War Arc (Episodes 480-500)
While episode 479 is often considered the last fully canon episode, the following episodes (480-500) are a bit more complicated. These episodes primarily consist of side stories and adaptations of various Naruto Gaiden materials, including the Sasuke Shinden: Book of Sunrise novel, Shikamaru Hiden: A Cloud Drifting in Silent Darkness novel, and others. While not strictly part of the core Naruto storyline, some of these episodes are considered semi-canon or have varying degrees of canonicity due to Kishimoto’s involvement or their connection to established characters and events.
These episodes offer valuable insights into the lives of characters after the war, their struggles, and their development as individuals and as a community. However, they don’t contribute directly to the main Naruto-Sasuke plot. Therefore, viewers focused on the core narrative often choose to skip these episodes or watch them selectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the concept of canon and filler in Naruto, particularly regarding the final episodes:
1. Are episodes 480-500 of Naruto Shippuden considered filler?
Not entirely. These episodes are a mix of adaptations from various side stories and novels. While not directly from the main manga storyline, some are considered semi-canon due to their connection to established characters and their backstories. It’s more accurate to classify them as “mixed canon” or “supplementary content.”
2. Should I skip the episodes after 479?
That depends on your preference. If you’re primarily interested in the core Naruto and Sasuke story, you can skip them without missing crucial plot points. However, if you enjoy character development and want to see more of the Naruto world after the war, watching these episodes is recommended.
3. Which episodes after 479 are considered the “most canon” or important?
The episodes adapting the Sasuke Shinden novel arc (episodes 484-488) are generally considered the most canon among the post-war episodes. These episodes provide crucial backstory and development for Sasuke, clarifying his motivations and actions after the war. Shikamaru Hiden adaptation (episodes 494-500) is also relevant.
4. Where can I find a comprehensive list of all Naruto filler episodes?
Many websites and online forums dedicated to anime provide detailed lists of Naruto filler episodes. Search terms like “Naruto filler list” or “Naruto Shippuden filler guide” will lead you to several reliable resources.
5. What is the difference between “canon” and “anime canon”?
“Canon” strictly refers to material from the original manga. “Anime canon” is a term sometimes used to describe content created exclusively for the anime that doesn’t contradict the manga and is generally accepted as part of the overall narrative by fans, even if it wasn’t explicitly drawn by Kishimoto.
6. Did Masashi Kishimoto have any involvement in the filler episodes?
While Kishimoto was primarily focused on the main manga series, he did provide input and oversight for some filler episodes and character designs. However, the majority of the filler content was created by Studio Pierrot without his direct involvement.
7. Are the Naruto movies considered canon?
The canonicity of the Naruto movies is a complex topic. Generally, most of the movies are considered non-canon, as they often present storylines or characters that contradict the main series’ established lore. However, some movies, like “The Last: Naruto the Movie,” are considered semi-canon due to their significance in bridging the gap between the end of the manga and the beginning of the Boruto series. Kishimoto was directly involved with this movie.
8. Will skipping filler episodes affect my understanding of the Boruto series?
In most cases, no. The Boruto series primarily builds upon the core Naruto narrative established in the manga. While some characters or events from filler episodes might be referenced, they are usually explained sufficiently within the Boruto series itself.
9. Is there a general consensus among fans about which post-war episodes are worth watching?
Yes, there is a general consensus. The Sasuke Shinden arc (episodes 484-488) is almost universally recommended for its character development and its connection to Sasuke’s post-war actions. The Shikamaru Hiden arc is also highly regarded. Individual preferences vary for the remaining episodes.
10. How can I distinguish between canon and filler episodes while watching?
Filler episodes often feature noticeable changes in animation style or pacing. They may also introduce new characters or storylines that feel disconnected from the main plot. Consulting a filler list while watching can also help you identify non-canon episodes.
11. Why did the anime include so much filler content?
The primary reason for including filler was to allow the manga to progress ahead of the anime adaptation. This prevents the anime from catching up to the manga and potentially overtaking it, which can lead to quality issues or deviation from the source material. Filler also provides the anime studio with more content to produce, ensuring consistent release schedules.
12. Where does the Boruto: Naruto Next Generations anime fit into the canonicity debate?
The Boruto anime is a mix of canon and filler content. The overarching storyline, particularly the manga adaptations, is considered canon. However, like Naruto Shippuden, the anime includes original story arcs and episodes that are not based on the manga and are therefore considered filler. It’s important to consult updated sources to differentiate between the two.