The last episode of the original Naruto anime series, episode 220 entitled “Departure,” aired on March 23, 2017, in Japan. This marked the culmination of a beloved coming-of-age story, though the Naruto universe continued with its sequel series, Naruto Shippuden.
The Finale: More Than Just an Ending
While March 23, 2017, is the pivotal date, understanding the significance of the final Naruto episode requires a deeper look. It’s not merely about the cessation of a television program; it represents the closing of a significant chapter in anime history and the culmination of years of dedication from creators, voice actors, and, most importantly, the global fanbase. The last episode served as a bittersweet farewell, leaving a lasting impact on viewers who had grown up alongside Naruto Uzumaki. The date also signifies the transition to Boruto: Naruto Next Generations, signaling a shift in focus to a new generation of ninja.
Unveiling the Naruto Universe: Addressing Common Questions
To better understand the legacy and context of the original Naruto‘s finale, let’s address some frequently asked questions:
1. What exactly is the difference between Naruto and Naruto Shippuden?
Naruto and Naruto Shippuden represent two distinct phases of the overall Naruto anime storyline. Naruto covers the younger years of Naruto Uzumaki, from his childhood as an outcast to his graduation from the Ninja Academy. Naruto Shippuden picks up the story two and a half years later, following Naruto’s return from training with Jiraiya and focusing on his more mature challenges, including battling the Akatsuki and the Fourth Great Ninja War. Think of Shippuden as the more action-packed and darker sequel.
2. Why did the original Naruto series end?
The original Naruto series concluded because it adapted the manga storyline up to a certain point. The creators needed time for the manga, written and illustrated by Masashi Kishimoto, to progress further. This allowed for Naruto Shippuden to follow a consistent storyline, avoiding filler episodes that stray too far from the original source material. The ending of the original series provided a natural break point before the events of Shippuden.
3. What happened in the last episode of Naruto?
The final episode, “Departure,” primarily focused on the aftermath of the Fourth Great Ninja War and the growing relationships between the characters. It depicted the preparation for Kakashi’s inauguration as the Sixth Hokage and the ongoing development of the Hidden Leaf Village. The episode also showcased the quieter moments, reflecting on the journeys of the characters and setting the stage for the next chapter in their lives. It was more about transition and resolution than a climactic battle.
4. Was Naruto Shippuden also based on the original manga?
Yes, Naruto Shippuden was directly based on the second part of Masashi Kishimoto’s Naruto manga series. It followed the same storyline and character developments, ensuring a faithful adaptation. This close adherence to the manga is a key reason for its popularity and critical acclaim.
5. Are the English dub dates the same as the original Japanese air dates?
No, the English dub dates are different from the original Japanese air dates. Due to the localization process, which includes translation, voice acting, and post-production, the English dub versions of Naruto and Naruto Shippuden aired much later in North America and other English-speaking regions. You’ll need to look up specific episode air dates for the English versions separately.
6. Is Boruto: Naruto Next Generations the official sequel to Naruto Shippuden?
Yes, Boruto: Naruto Next Generations is considered the official sequel to Naruto Shippuden. It focuses on the story of Boruto Uzumaki, Naruto’s son, and his generation of ninjas. While it continues the story in the same universe, it introduces new characters, challenges, and a different perspective on the ninja world.
7. What are the main differences between Naruto Shippuden and Boruto?
Several key differences distinguish Naruto Shippuden from Boruto. The most obvious is the shift in protagonist from Naruto to his son, Boruto. The tone of the series is also somewhat different, with Boruto often exploring more modern themes and technologies within the ninja world. The stakes are also different; while Shippuden focused on a global war, Boruto often deals with more localized threats, at least initially. Furthermore, Boruto places a greater emphasis on team dynamics and the challenges faced by the next generation of ninjas.
8. Are all the characters from Naruto and Naruto Shippuden in Boruto?
While many characters from Naruto and Naruto Shippuden make appearances in Boruto, they are often in supporting roles. The focus is primarily on the new generation of characters, including Boruto, Sarada, Mitsuki, and their peers. Seeing familiar faces provides a sense of continuity and nostalgia, but Boruto is ultimately about the journey of a new group of ninjas.
9. Is Masashi Kishimoto still involved in the Boruto series?
Yes, Masashi Kishimoto has been involved in the Boruto series in various capacities. Initially, he supervised the production and story. As of 2020, he returned to take over the writing duties, bringing his unique vision and creative control back to the franchise. This has been seen as a positive move by many fans, solidifying the connection between Naruto and its sequel.
10. Where can I watch Naruto, Naruto Shippuden, and Boruto?
Naruto, Naruto Shippuden, and Boruto are available on various streaming platforms, including Crunchyroll, Hulu, and Netflix (availability may vary depending on your region). Physical copies of the series, such as DVDs and Blu-rays, are also available for purchase. These platforms provide convenient access to the entire Naruto universe, allowing fans to revisit their favorite moments and follow the latest developments.
11. Why is there so much filler in the Naruto anime series?
Filler episodes are common in long-running anime series that are based on manga. They are used to give the manga author time to create more content, preventing the anime from catching up too quickly and potentially surpassing the source material. While some fans appreciate filler episodes for expanding the world and character development, others find them disruptive to the main storyline.
12. Will there ever be a Naruto reboot or continuation focusing on the original characters in the future?
While there are no official plans for a Naruto reboot or a continuation focusing solely on the original characters, the possibility remains open. The enduring popularity of the franchise and the constant demand from fans suggest that future projects revisiting the original cast in some capacity are not entirely out of the question. The future remains unwritten, and the creative team behind Naruto could always surprise fans with new content.
The Lasting Legacy of Naruto
The final airing of Naruto on March 23, 2017, was more than just the end of a television series; it marked a significant moment in anime history. It represented the culmination of a journey that resonated with millions of viewers worldwide, shaping their understanding of friendship, perseverance, and the importance of never giving up. Even with Boruto: Naruto Next Generations continuing the narrative, the original Naruto remains a cherished cornerstone of the anime landscape, a testament to its enduring appeal and the power of storytelling. Its influence can be seen in numerous subsequent anime series, cementing its place as a true classic. The date serves as a reminder of the emotional connection fans forged with Naruto Uzumaki and his friends, a connection that continues to thrive through rewatches, fan fiction, and the ongoing legacy of the Naruto universe.