Are you looking for the perfect Naruto Watching Guide? CONDUCT.EDU.VN provides a comprehensive Naruto viewing guide, complete with episode lists, movie placements, and streaming options, so you can immerse yourself in the world of ninjas. Discover the ideal Naruto journey to ensure you catch every crucial moment and engaging story arc. Use our anime guide for the perfect watch order, and enjoy the hidden leaf’s adventures.
1. Beginning Your Naruto Journey: A Comprehensive Guide
Naruto, created by Masashi Kishimoto, debuted in Weekly Shōnen Jump in September 1999 and quickly gained a dedicated following. The series’ popularity led to an anime adaptation, various spin-offs, and successful video games. There is even a Naruto stage musical. Spanning decades, the anime series has solidified its place as one of the best anime franchises of all time, and it has been added to streaming services like Netflix.
The series’ Netflix success continued into 2024, becoming the most-watched anime despite its late addition. Outperforming new seasonal anime and hits like My Hero Academia, Naruto’s enduring appeal is clear.
With over 1,000 episodes, watching Naruto requires dedication. The franchise includes a spin-off series, Boruto: Naruto Next Generations, which follows Naruto’s son, Boruto, as he embarks on his own adventures.
To navigate the vast world of Naruto, it’s crucial to know where to start. This guide offers a comprehensive viewing order, from the beginning to the latest installment, ensuring you don’t miss any essential episodes or movies. Let’s begin this journey together!
2. The Original Naruto Series: Episode and Movie Order
The original Naruto series and Naruto Shippuden require viewers to alternate between episodes and movies. While the movies are not essential to understanding the main storyline, they offer entertaining and enriching experiences. Follow this order to ensure you enjoy the series and its accompanying movies seamlessly.
2.1. Naruto (Episodes 1-101)
Begin with the first 101 episodes of the original Naruto series. These episodes introduce the main characters, the world of ninjas, and set the stage for Naruto’s journey.
2.2. Naruto The Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow
After episode 101, watch “Naruto The Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow.” This movie provides a fun, self-contained adventure that doesn’t disrupt the main storyline.
2.3. Naruto (Episodes 102-160)
Continue with episodes 102 through 160. These episodes further develop the characters and expand on the challenges they face.
2.4. Naruto The Movie: Legend of the Stone of Gelel
Next, watch “Naruto The Movie: Legend of the Stone of Gelel.” This movie is another standalone adventure that offers additional insight into the world of Naruto.
2.5. Naruto (Episodes 161-196)
Resume the series with episodes 161 through 196. These episodes continue the main storyline and introduce new conflicts and characters.
2.6. Naruto The Movie: Guardians of the Crescent Moon Kingdom
Watch “Naruto The Movie: Guardians of the Crescent Moon Kingdom” before moving on. This movie provides a unique adventure that complements the series.
2.7. Naruto (Episodes 197-220)
Conclude the original Naruto series with episodes 197 through 220. These episodes wrap up the initial storylines and set the stage for Naruto Shippuden.
The original Naruto series is available on Blu-Ray. Many movies can be streamed on Crunchyroll, Netflix, and YouTube.
3. Naruto Shippuden: A Teenage Ninja’s Journey
Naruto Shippuden portrays Naruto as a teenager, older, more mature, yet retaining his humor, determined to become the best shinobi Konoha has ever seen. The viewing order involves alternating between episodes and movies, enhancing the viewing experience.
3.1. Naruto: Shippuden (Episodes 1-32)
Begin the series with the first 32 episodes of Naruto Shippuden. These episodes reintroduce Naruto and set the stage for the new challenges he faces.
3.2. Naruto Shippuden: The Movie
After episode 32, watch “Naruto Shippuden: The Movie.” This movie introduces new threats and showcases Naruto’s growth as a ninja.
3.3. Naruto: Shippuden (Episodes 33-71)
Continue with episodes 33 through 71. These episodes explore new conflicts and deepen the relationships between the characters.
3.4. Naruto Shippuden The Movie: Bonds
Watch “Naruto Shippuden The Movie: Bonds” before proceeding. This movie explores the bond between Naruto and Sasuke as they face a common enemy.
3.5. Naruto: Shippuden (Episodes 72-126)
Resume the series with episodes 72 through 126. These episodes delve further into the main storyline and introduce new challenges.
3.6. Naruto Shippuden The Movie: The Will of Fire
Next, watch “Naruto Shippuden The Movie: The Will of Fire.” This movie provides additional insight into the values and sacrifices of the ninja world.
3.7. Naruto: Shippuden (Episodes 127-143)
Continue with episodes 127 through 143. These episodes focus on character development and set the stage for future events.
3.8. Naruto Shippuden: The Lost Tower
Watch “Naruto Shippuden: The Lost Tower” before continuing. This movie takes Naruto on a time-traveling adventure.
3.9. Naruto: Shippuden (Episodes 144-196)
Resume with episodes 144 through 196. These episodes expand on the ongoing conflicts and introduce new characters.
3.10. Naruto Shippuden The Movie: Blood Prison
Watch “Naruto Shippuden The Movie: Blood Prison.” This movie places Naruto in a difficult situation, testing his resolve.
3.11. Naruto: Shippuden (Episodes 197-251)
Continue the series with episodes 197 through 251. These episodes develop the main storyline and explore character relationships.
3.12. Naruto The Movie: Road to Ninja
Watch “Naruto The Movie: Road to Ninja.” This movie presents an alternate reality, exploring what could have been.
3.13. Naruto: Shippuden (Episodes 252-493)
Resume the main series with episodes 252 through 493. These episodes form the bulk of the Shippuden storyline, covering major plot arcs and character developments.
3.14. The Last: Naruto The Movie
Watch “The Last: Naruto The Movie.” This movie bridges the gap between Naruto Shippuden and Boruto, focusing on Naruto’s personal life.
3.15. Naruto: Shippuden (Episodes 494-500)
Conclude Naruto Shippuden with episodes 494 through 500. These episodes provide closure to the series, setting the stage for the next generation.
The first season of Naruto Shippuden is available on DVD. Many movies are currently streaming on Crunchyroll, Netflix, and YouTube.
4. Boruto: Naruto Next Generations – Continuing the Legacy
While Boruto: Naruto The Movie was released during the Naruto Shippuden era, the watch order for Boruto is slightly more complex than just watching in chronological order. The events of Boruto: Naruto The Movie are covered within the Boruto: Naruto Next Generations series during episodes 53-66. If you want to get up to speed with Boruto before the movie, we’d suggest starting after episode 52 and then continuing with the rest of the episodes up until Boruto episode 293. As of the moment of writing, the first part of Boruto is complete, and the series is effectively on hiatus. It has not yet been confirmed when the series will return. This series focuses on Naruto’s son, Boruto.
4.1. Boruto: Naruto Next Generations (Episodes 1-52)
Begin with the first 52 episodes of Boruto: Naruto Next Generations. These episodes introduce the new generation of ninja and set the stage for Boruto’s journey.
4.2. Boruto: Naruto the Movie (Covered in Episodes 53-66)
The events of “Boruto: Naruto the Movie” are covered within episodes 53-66 of the series. Watching these episodes provides context for Boruto’s character and his motivations.
4.3. Boruto: Naruto Next Generations (Episodes 67-293)
Continue with episodes 67 through 293. These episodes expand on Boruto’s story, introduce new challenges, and explore the relationships between the characters.
The first season of Boruto: Naruto Next Generations is available on DVD.
5. Where to Watch the English Dub of Naruto
For fans who prefer watching the English dub of Naruto, it is available on Netflix in the UK. However, it is not available on Crunchyroll in the UK. In North America, the English dub of Naruto is available on Netflix and Hulu. UK viewers with HBO Max can also access it on Apple TV+.
6. Should You Skip the Naruto Movies?
While the Naruto movies are enjoyable, most fans agree that they are not essential to the main storyline. They are typically filler movies that exist in isolation. If you’re a completionist, you may want to watch them all. However, the only two movies you should watch are “The Last: Naruto the Movie” and “Boruto: Naruto the Movie,” as they are part of the show’s timeline. “The Last” bridges Naruto’s life, and “Boruto” begins the next generation’s story.
However, each movie can expand your appreciation of the characters. “Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Bonds” explores the relationship between Sasuke and Naruto, highlighting their enduring friendship.
7. How to Watch Naruto in the UK and US
In the UK, Naruto is available on Crunchyroll and Netflix. However, not all episodes are available on Netflix. Each series is also available for purchase on Amazon. In the US, many anime shows, including Naruto, are streaming for free on YouTube, but only the subtitled versions are available. Fans who prefer the dubbed version should explore other options like Netflix and Hulu.
8. Understanding Key Story Arcs in Naruto
To fully appreciate Naruto, understanding the key story arcs is crucial. These arcs provide the foundation for the characters’ growth and the overall narrative.
8.1. The Land of Waves Arc
This early arc introduces Team 7 and their first real mission. It establishes the importance of teamwork and the dangers of the ninja world.
8.2. The Chunin Exams Arc
This arc showcases the skills of young ninjas from different villages. It introduces new characters and sets the stage for future conflicts.
8.3. The Search for Tsunade Arc
This arc focuses on finding a new Hokage and deals with Orochimaru’s threat. It explores themes of leadership and sacrifice.
8.4. The Sasuke Retrieval Arc
This arc revolves around Naruto’s attempts to bring Sasuke back to Konoha. It highlights their bond and the diverging paths they take.
8.5. The Akatsuki Suppression Arc
This arc introduces the Akatsuki and their quest for world domination. It sets the stage for the major conflicts in Naruto Shippuden.
8.6. The Pain’s Assault Arc
This arc features Pain’s attack on Konoha and Naruto’s battle to protect his village. It explores themes of peace and justice.
8.7. The Fourth Great Ninja War Arc
This arc encompasses the final battles against the Akatsuki and Obito. It brings together all the major characters and storylines in a climactic conclusion.
9. Diving Deeper: Essential Naruto Episodes
Certain episodes are essential for understanding the plot and character development. Here’s a list of must-watch episodes:
| Episode Number | Episode Title | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Enter: Naruto Uzumaki! | Introduces Naruto and his dreams of becoming Hokage. |
| 19 | The Demon in the Snow | Showcases the importance of teamwork and protecting one’s comrades. |
| 80 | The End of Sorrow | Concludes the Sasuke Retrieval Arc and highlights the bond between Naruto and Sasuke. |
| 133 | A Plea From a Friend | Explores Naruto’s determination to save Sasuke from darkness. |
| 167 | Planetary Devastation | Features Naruto’s battle against Pain and his resolve to protect Konoha. |
| 377 | Naruto vs. Sasuke | Culminates the rivalry between Naruto and Sasuke in a final battle. |
| 476 | The Final Battle | Resolves the conflict between Naruto and Sasuke and brings peace to the ninja world. |
10. Understanding Naruto’s Themes and Symbolism
Naruto explores various themes that resonate with audiences worldwide.
10.1. Friendship and Bonds
The series emphasizes the importance of friendship and the bonds between individuals. Naruto’s relationships with Sasuke, Sakura, and his other comrades drive much of the story.
10.2. Perseverance and Determination
Naruto’s unwavering determination to achieve his dreams serves as a central theme. His perseverance inspires others and highlights the value of never giving up.
10.3. Peace and Understanding
The quest for peace and understanding is a recurring theme, particularly in Naruto Shippuden. The characters grapple with the consequences of war and strive to find a better future.
10.4. Loss and Sacrifice
The series deals with the themes of loss and sacrifice, as characters face difficult choices and endure significant hardships for the greater good.
11. Expanding Your Naruto Experience: Beyond the Anime
To further immerse yourself in the world of Naruto, consider exploring other mediums:
11.1. Manga
Reading the original manga provides a different perspective on the story. It offers additional details and insights into the characters’ thoughts and motivations.
11.2. Video Games
Playing Naruto video games allows you to experience the battles and adventures firsthand. The games often feature original storylines and characters.
11.3. Novels and Light Novels
Naruto novels and light novels delve deeper into specific characters and storylines. They provide additional context and explore new facets of the Naruto universe.
11.4. Merchandise and Collectibles
Collecting Naruto merchandise, such as figures, clothing, and accessories, allows you to express your fandom and connect with other fans.
12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Watching Naruto
12.1. What is the best order to watch Naruto?
Follow the guide above, which alternates between episodes and movies to ensure you don’t miss any essential content.
12.2. Can I skip the filler episodes in Naruto?
While you can skip filler episodes, some of them offer entertaining and enriching experiences. Use a filler list to determine which episodes to skip.
12.3. Are the Naruto movies canon?
Most Naruto movies are not considered canon, but “The Last: Naruto the Movie” and “Boruto: Naruto the Movie” are part of the main storyline.
12.4. Where can I watch Naruto online?
Naruto is available on various streaming platforms, including Crunchyroll, Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube.
12.5. Is Boruto worth watching after Naruto Shippuden?
Boruto offers a continuation of the Naruto universe, focusing on the next generation of ninja. If you enjoyed Naruto, Boruto is worth watching.
12.6. How many episodes are there in total in the Naruto franchise?
The Naruto franchise consists of over 1,000 episodes, including Naruto, Naruto Shippuden, and Boruto: Naruto Next Generations.
12.7. What is the difference between Naruto and Naruto Shippuden?
Naruto follows Naruto’s childhood and early ninja training, while Naruto Shippuden portrays Naruto as a teenager, dealing with more mature themes and conflicts.
12.8. Who are the main characters in Naruto?
The main characters include Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha, Sakura Haruno, Kakashi Hatake, and many others.
12.9. What are the key themes in Naruto?
Key themes include friendship, perseverance, peace, loss, and sacrifice.
12.10. How long does it take to watch the entire Naruto series?
Watching the entire Naruto series can take several months, depending on your viewing pace.
13. Understanding the Cultural Impact of Naruto
Naruto’s cultural impact extends beyond its popularity as an anime and manga series. It has influenced art, music, fashion, and even social movements.
13.1. Influence on Art and Music
Naruto has inspired countless artists and musicians. Fan art, cosplay, and tribute songs are common expressions of admiration for the series.
13.2. Fashion and Cosplay
The characters’ unique designs have influenced fashion trends and inspired elaborate cosplay creations. Naruto-themed clothing and accessories are popular among fans.
13.3. Social Movements
The series’ themes of perseverance and fighting for justice have resonated with social movements. Naruto has become a symbol of hope and determination for many.
14. Tips for a Better Naruto Viewing Experience
To enhance your Naruto viewing experience, consider the following tips:
14.1. Watch in HD
Watching Naruto in high definition enhances the visual quality and immersion.
14.2. Use Subtitles or Dubs
Choose subtitles or dubs based on your preference. Subtitles allow you to hear the original Japanese voice acting, while dubs make it easier to follow the dialogue.
14.3. Watch with Friends
Watching Naruto with friends can enhance the social aspect and make the experience more enjoyable.
14.4. Take Breaks
With over 1,000 episodes, it’s important to take breaks to avoid burnout. Pace yourself and enjoy the journey.
14.5. Engage with the Community
Join online forums, social media groups, and fan communities to discuss Naruto with other fans.
15. Conclusion: Embark on Your Naruto Adventure Today
With this comprehensive Naruto watching guide, you’re now equipped to embark on an unforgettable adventure. From the original series to Naruto Shippuden and Boruto: Naruto Next Generations, the world of Naruto is vast and engaging. Follow the recommended viewing order, explore the key story arcs, and immerse yourself in the rich themes and characters that make Naruto a timeless classic.
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