Naruto Watch Order: Ultimate Guide (Movies Included!)
Hey Naruto fans! So, you're ready to dive into the ninja world, huh? Awesome! Naruto is an epic anime, and believe me, you're in for a wild ride. But with so many episodes and movies, figuring out the perfect watch order can be a real headache. Don't worry, though, because I've got you covered. This guide will break down the ideal way to watch Naruto and Naruto Shippuden, including all the movies. Let's get started, shall we?
The Basics: Naruto and Naruto Shippuden
First things first: There are two main parts to the Naruto anime series: Naruto and Naruto Shippuden. Naruto is where it all begins. We meet Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja with big dreams and an even bigger heart. He struggles to gain recognition and trains hard to achieve his goal of becoming the Hokage, the leader of his village. The original series introduces us to the world, the characters, and the core conflicts that will drive the story. You'll meet Sasuke, Sakura, Kakashi, and the rest of Team 7, and get to know the dynamics of the Hidden Leaf Village (Konoha). The first part is packed with action, humor, and a lot of heart. Naruto's journey is a classic underdog story, and you'll find yourself rooting for him every step of the way. Trust me; you'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll definitely be hooked.
Then, after a time skip, comes Naruto Shippuden. This is where the story gets more complex and the stakes are raised. Naruto returns to Konoha after a two-and-a-half-year training period with Jiraiya. He reunites with his friends and sets out to stop the Akatsuki, a dangerous criminal organization. Shippuden explores themes of war, loss, and the nature of good and evil in more detail. This part of the series is where the story really unfolds, and Naruto and his friends face challenges that test their bonds and their skills. Prepare for epic battles, emotional moments, and a lot of character development. Understanding the difference between the two parts is crucial to grasping the overall flow of the series. The original Naruto is like the foundation, setting the stage, while Shippuden is the skyscraper built upon it. Each part contributes to the rich and expansive world of the anime.
The Ultimate Naruto Watch Order: Including Movies
Okay, guys, here's the watch order you've been waiting for. This list includes both the anime episodes and the movies, ensuring you get the full Naruto experience without any spoilers or confusion. This order is designed to integrate the movies seamlessly into the main storyline.
Part 1: Naruto
- Episodes 1-19: The beginning of Naruto's journey. Introduction to the characters and the world. Great episodes to get you invested.
- Movie 1: Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow: This movie fits in perfectly here. It occurs shortly after the Land of Waves arc.
- Episodes 20-100: Continue with the original series, including the Chunin Exams arc, which is a fan favorite.
- Movie 2: Naruto the Movie: Legend of the Stone of Gelel: This movie is a good watch after the Chunin Exams.
- Episodes 101-135: Finish the original Naruto series. You'll encounter some important story arcs during this period.
- Movie 3: Naruto the Movie: Guardians of the Crescent Moon Kingdom: This movie should be watched at the end of Part 1. It provides a satisfying conclusion to the original Naruto series. The movie usually involves a mission outside the usual setting.
Part 2: Naruto Shippuden
- Episodes 1-112: Naruto Shippuden begins. This part sets up the Akatsuki and the story arc of Naruto. The beginning episodes are all about Naruto returning to the village and his mission.
- Movie 4: Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The first Shippuden movie can be watched after episode 53. It doesn't spoil anything and fits in well.
- Episodes 113-175: Continue with Shippuden, including key arcs like the Sasuke Retrieval Mission and the introduction of many new characters.
- Movie 5: Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Bonds: Watch this after episode 160. It offers more action and insight into Naruto's character.
- Episodes 176-196: These episodes lead up to the Pain arc, a pivotal moment in the series.
- Movie 6: Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire: This movie should be watched after episode 196. It expands on the themes of the series.
- Episodes 197-222: The Pain arc unfolds, a turning point in the series. The arcs are filled with action and drama.
- Movie 7: Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Lost Tower: You can watch this movie after episode 220. It's a fun addition to the saga.
- Episodes 223-270: Continue with Shippuden, including more battles and character development.
- Movie 8: Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Blood Prison: Watch this after episode 243. It adds another layer to the world of Naruto.
- Episodes 271-310: Continue watching the series. The story keeps moving forward, and you're getting closer to the end.
- Movie 9: Road to Ninja: Naruto the Movie: This is a special movie and should be watched after episode 310, as it contains some spoilers. It's a unique take on the series.
- Episodes 311-480: The final stretch. Get ready for some major battles and a satisfying conclusion to the story.
- Episodes 481-500: The final episodes. These episodes conclude the main story and often contain the wedding arcs.
Tips for Enjoying the Naruto Watch Order
- Pace Yourself: Naruto is a long series, so don't feel like you have to binge-watch everything at once. Take breaks, and enjoy the journey!
- Watch the Fillers: Some episodes are