Having witnessed the culmination of Naruto and Sasuke’s legendary rivalry and the dawn of a new era in the Hidden Leaf Village, fans face a common question: what comes next? While Naruto Shippuden concludes with episode 500, the Naruto universe continues to expand, offering various avenues for continued enjoyment.
Stepping Beyond Shippuden: Your Next Chapter
The immediate answer is Boruto: Naruto Next Generations. This series focuses on Naruto’s son, Boruto, and a new generation of ninjas navigating a world vastly different from that of their parents. While Boruto is the direct sequel, several other options exist to satiate your ninja cravings, each offering unique perspectives and experiences within or inspired by the Naruto universe. Consider your specific interests – are you yearning for more action, a deeper dive into supporting characters, or a completely fresh world imbued with similar themes? Your answer will guide you to the best post-Shippuden experience.
Understanding the Boruto Universe: A New Generation’s Trials
Boruto presents a world where peace seemingly reigns, advanced technology has permeated daily life, and the roles of ninjas are evolving. Boruto Uzumaki, inheriting his father’s rebellious spirit but lacking his initial drive, initially rejects the Hokage’s path. This sets the stage for a different kind of ninja journey, one that explores new threats and challenges the established order.
Diving into the Story Arcs
The Boruto anime and manga follow a series of story arcs that introduce new villains, explore the capabilities of the next generation, and revisit familiar faces. Key arcs include:
- Academy Arc: Introduces the main characters and their initial training.
- Genin Missions Arc: Showcases the team’s early missions and their struggles to work together.
- Byakuya Gang Arc: Presents the first significant threat to Konoha’s peace.
- Chunin Exams Arc: A high-stakes tournament that tests the skills of the Genin.
- Momoshiki Arc: Adapts the Boruto: Naruto the Movie storyline, pitting Boruto and his team against powerful Otsutsuki clan members.
- Kara Arc: A long and intricate arc involving a mysterious organization with advanced technology and dangerous goals.
Comparing Boruto’s Anime and Manga
While both the anime and manga follow the same overarching narrative, they often diverge in their approach to storytelling. The anime features more original content and character development, while the manga tends to focus more on the core plot points. Many consider the manga to be more faithful to the original Naruto spirit in its power scaling and narrative focus. Ultimately, the best choice depends on personal preference; some fans prefer the expanded character development of the anime, while others prefer the tighter pacing and plot of the manga.
Beyond Boruto: Exploring Alternative Anime
While Boruto is the official continuation, several other anime series share similar themes, art styles, and action-packed narratives that might appeal to Naruto fans.
Shonen Anime Recommendations
- My Hero Academia: Another story about a young protagonist striving to become the best hero, filled with unique powers and compelling characters. Its emphasis on teamwork and overcoming adversity resonates strongly with Naruto themes.
- Hunter x Hunter: A classic shonen anime with intricate world-building, complex characters, and a captivating storyline that explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the pursuit of self-improvement.
- Black Clover: A fast-paced and action-packed anime about a magic-less boy who dreams of becoming the Wizard King. While it can be repetitive at times, it offers a similar blend of humor, action, and emotional depth to Naruto.
- One Piece: Though significantly longer, One Piece shares Naruto’s emphasis on camaraderie, adventure, and pursuing one’s dreams against all odds. Its rich world and diverse cast of characters offer a rewarding viewing experience.
Anime with Ninja Themes
- Basilisk: The Kouga Ninja Scrolls: A darker and more mature take on ninja warfare, focusing on two rival ninja clans locked in a deadly conflict.
- Ninja Scroll: A classic anime film that showcases brutal ninja action and a compelling story of betrayal and redemption.
FAQs: Answering Your Burning Questions
H3 FAQ 1: Is Boruto worth watching after Naruto Shippuden?
Whether Boruto is “worth watching” is subjective. If you are craving more Naruto universe content, seeing familiar characters in new roles, and watching a new generation of ninjas grow, then yes. However, be prepared for a shift in tone and a protagonist with different motivations than Naruto. Many fans initially find Boruto’s character unlikeable, so it requires some patience.
H3 FAQ 2: Does Naruto die in Boruto?
This is a major concern for many fans. While we won’t spoil the exact details, the anime and manga heavily imply that Naruto’s position as Hokage is threatened, and he faces significant challenges that put his life at risk. His fate is a central plot point.
H3 FAQ 3: Where can I watch Boruto: Naruto Next Generations?
Boruto is available on various streaming platforms, including Crunchyroll, Hulu, and Funimation. Check your local streaming services for availability.
H3 FAQ 4: Is Boruto canon?
Yes, Boruto is considered canon to the Naruto universe. It is written and supervised by Masashi Kishimoto, the creator of Naruto, ensuring its place within the established storyline.
H3 FAQ 5: Are there any Naruto movies I should watch after Shippuden?
After Shippuden, it’s beneficial to watch Boruto: Naruto the Movie as it introduces key characters and events that are later adapted into the Boruto anime and manga.
H3 FAQ 6: Should I read the Boruto manga or watch the anime?
This depends on personal preference. The anime offers more filler content and character development, while the manga is more focused and generally considered to have a tighter plot. Some arcs are better adapted in one medium than the other.
H3 FAQ 7: What is the difference between Boruto: Naruto Next Generations and Boruto: Two Blue Vortex?
Boruto: Two Blue Vortex is the second part of the Boruto manga series. It takes place several years after the events of the original Boruto manga, with a significant time skip and a darker, more mature tone. The anime adaptation is likely to follow.
H3 FAQ 8: Who is stronger, Naruto or Boruto?
At the start of the series, Naruto is significantly stronger. However, Boruto’s potential is immense, and as the series progresses, he develops unique abilities and techniques that could eventually rival his father’s power. This is a complex and evolving dynamic within the series.
H3 FAQ 9: Are all the original Naruto characters in Boruto?
Many of the original Naruto characters appear in Boruto, often in supporting roles as parents, mentors, and leaders within Konoha. Their presence helps bridge the gap between the two series and adds a layer of nostalgia for longtime fans.
H3 FAQ 10: What are the new threats in Boruto?
Boruto introduces new and powerful threats, primarily the Otsutsuki clan and the organization known as Kara. These villains possess advanced technology and abilities that challenge the established power balance of the ninja world.
H3 FAQ 11: Is there a Naruto spin-off focusing on specific characters?
While there aren’t officially sanctioned lengthy spin-offs like Boruto, there are numerous light novels and short stories that delve into the backstories and experiences of supporting characters within the Naruto universe. These can offer additional insight and appreciation for the world.
H3 FAQ 12: Will there ever be another Naruto Shippuden-style series?
While there are no confirmed plans for another series directly continuing Naruto’s specific story arc, Masashi Kishimoto has expressed interest in exploring other aspects of the Naruto universe in the future. Whether that takes the form of a new series, movies, or other media remains to be seen. Keep an eye on official announcements for the most up-to-date information.
Ultimately, the journey after Naruto Shippuden episode 500 is a personal one. Explore the Boruto universe, delve into similar anime, and revisit your favorite moments from the original series. The spirit of the ninja will continue to live on, no matter which path you choose.