Naruto Watch Order: Complete Guide With Movies

So, you want to dive into the world of Naruto, huh? Awesome choice! But figuring out the correct order to watch everything, including all those awesome movies, can be a bit of a ninja mission itself. Don't worry, guys, I'm here to guide you through it all, step by step, to make sure you experience Naruto's journey the way it was meant to be. This guide will cover the entire Naruto series, including Naruto, Naruto Shippuden, and all the movies, ensuring you don't miss a single epic moment. We'll break down the chronological order, filler episodes (which you can skip if you want!), and where the movies fit into the timeline. Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of ninjas, ramen, and the unbreakable bonds of friendship!

The Ultimate Naruto Watch Order

Naruto (2002-2007)

First, you gotta start with the original Naruto series. This is where you meet Naruto Uzumaki, the knucklehead ninja with big dreams of becoming Hokage. This series lays the foundation for everything, introducing key characters like Sasuke, Sakura, Kakashi, and all the colorful personalities of the Hidden Leaf Village. It's crucial to watch this series first because it establishes the relationships, backstories, and fundamental jutsu that become important later on. You'll witness Naruto's growth from a mischievous kid to a determined young ninja, facing challenges and making lifelong friends. Make sure you pay attention to the development of Team 7, as their bond is central to the entire narrative. Understanding the initial struggles and triumphs of Naruto and his comrades will make the subsequent Shippuden series even more impactful. Plus, you get to see some classic battles and iconic moments that define the early Naruto era, setting the stage for the more intense conflicts to come. The original Naruto series is more than just an introduction; it's the heart and soul of the Naruto saga, and skipping it would be like starting a book from the middle – you'd miss all the essential context and emotional investment.

Naruto Movies During the Original Series

Okay, now, before jumping into Shippuden, let's sprinkle in the Naruto movies that go with the original series. These movies offer fun, self-contained stories that don't necessarily impact the main plot, but they're still a blast to watch and add extra flavor to the Naruto universe. While some might debate the canonicity of these movies, they are generally accepted as non-canon, meaning they don't directly affect the main storyline. However, they provide exciting side adventures and allow you to see the characters in different situations, often with higher stakes and visually stunning animation. For example, "Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow" is a classic early adventure that showcases Team 7's teamwork and unique abilities. Watching these movies in the recommended order enhances the overall viewing experience by providing breaks between the main story arcs and offering fresh perspectives on the characters we've come to love. Plus, who doesn't love seeing Naruto unleash a new Rasengan variation or witnessing Sasuke's Sharingan in action against formidable opponents? Treat these movies as exciting side quests that enrich your journey through the world of Naruto.

Here’s where they fit:

• Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow – After episode 101
• Naruto the Movie 2: Legend of the Stone of Gelel – After episode 160
• Naruto the Movie 3: Guardians of the Crescent Moon Kingdom – After episode 196

Naruto Shippuden (2007-2017)

Alright, buckle up because Naruto Shippuden is where things get real. This series picks up a few years after Naruto leaves the Hidden Leaf Village to train with Jiraiya. He comes back stronger, taller, and even more determined to save Sasuke from the clutches of Orochimaru. Shippuden is darker, more intense, and packed with epic battles that will leave you on the edge of your seat. The Akatsuki, a group of powerful rogue ninjas, take center stage as the primary antagonists, and their pursuit of the Tailed Beasts leads to devastating conflicts. Naruto's journey to master the Nine-Tailed Fox's power becomes a central theme, and he faces numerous challenges that test his strength and resolve. The series delves deeper into the backstories of various characters, revealing their motivations and adding layers of complexity to the narrative. Shippuden also explores themes of war, loss, and the cycle of hatred, prompting viewers to reflect on the consequences of violence and the importance of understanding. Prepare yourself for emotional rollercoasters, as Shippuden doesn't shy away from heartbreaking moments and impactful character deaths. It's a series that will stay with you long after you've finished watching, prompting discussions and analysis of its profound themes and unforgettable characters. This is where Naruto truly comes into his own as a ninja and a leader, and you definitely don't want to miss a single episode.

Naruto Shippuden Movies

Just like with the original Naruto series, Shippuden has its own set of movies that enhance the overall experience. These movies often feature unique storylines, new characters, and visually stunning animation that complements the main series. While they may not be strictly canon, they offer exciting side adventures and allow you to see the characters in different scenarios, often with higher stakes and more intense action. For instance, "Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Bonds" explores the themes of brotherhood and sacrifice, while "Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Lost Tower" delves into time travel and alternate realities. These movies provide a welcome break from the main storyline and allow you to appreciate the characters in a different light. Think of them as bonus episodes that expand the Naruto universe and offer fresh perspectives on familiar themes. Plus, they're just plain fun to watch, with over-the-top battles and creative jutsu that you won't see in the main series. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy these cinematic adventures that add an extra layer of excitement to your Naruto journey.

Here’s the order to watch the Shippuden movies:

• Naruto Shippuden the Movie – After episode 83
• Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Bonds – After episode 128
• Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire – After episode 171
• Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Lost Tower – After episode 220
• Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Blood Prison – After episode 271
• Road to Ninja: Naruto the Movie – After episode 311
• The Last: Naruto the Movie – After episode 493

Boruto: Naruto Next Generations (2017-Present)

Boruto is the sequel series that follows the adventures of Naruto's son, Boruto Uzumaki. While it's not essential to watch Boruto to complete Naruto's story, it offers a continuation of the Naruto universe and introduces a new generation of ninja. Boruto explores themes of legacy, technology, and the challenges of living in a peaceful era. The series follows Boruto and his friends as they navigate their own paths, grappling with their parents' shadows and forging their own identities. While some fans have mixed feelings about Boruto, it provides a fresh perspective on the Naruto world and introduces new villains and challenges. It's worth watching if you're invested in the Naruto universe and want to see what happens to the next generation of ninja. Plus, you get to see Naruto as Hokage, which is pretty awesome. Boruto also delves into the impact of peace on the ninja world, exploring the rise of technology and the changing roles of ninja in a society that no longer relies solely on combat. The series also revisits familiar characters from the original Naruto series, offering glimpses into their lives and their relationships with their children. Whether you love it or hate it, Boruto is a significant part of the Naruto franchise and provides a continuation of the story for those who want to see more.

Filler Episodes: To Watch or Not to Watch?

Okay, let's talk about filler episodes. These are episodes that aren't based on the original manga and are often added to give the manga author time to get ahead. Some fillers are fun and lighthearted, offering a break from the main plot, while others can feel like a drag. Whether you watch them or skip them is totally up to you. Some fans enjoy the extra character development and world-building that fillers can provide, while others prefer to stick to the main storyline. If you're new to Naruto, you might want to consider skipping the filler episodes to avoid getting bogged down in unnecessary content. However, if you're a completionist or simply want to spend more time in the Naruto world, then go ahead and watch them all. There's no right or wrong answer; it's all about personal preference. You can easily find lists of filler episodes online, so you can make an informed decision about which ones to skip and which ones to watch. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the Naruto experience, so do what makes you happy!

Where to Watch Naruto

So, where can you actually watch all this Naruto goodness? Luckily, Naruto is pretty widely available on various streaming platforms. You can find Naruto, Naruto Shippuden, and Boruto on services like Crunchyroll, Hulu, and Netflix (depending on your region). Crunchyroll is a great option because it specializes in anime and offers a vast library of titles, including all the Naruto series and movies. Hulu also has a solid selection of anime, and Netflix has been expanding its anime offerings in recent years. You can also purchase digital copies of the series and movies on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Google Play. If you're a fan of physical media, you can find DVD and Blu-ray sets of Naruto at most major retailers. No matter your preferred method of watching, there are plenty of ways to access the Naruto series and immerse yourself in the world of ninjas and adventure. Just be sure to check the availability of the series in your region and choose the platform that best suits your needs.

Final Thoughts

Watching Naruto in order can seem daunting at first, but with this guide, you're all set! Enjoy the journey, embrace the feels, and get ready to believe it! Naruto is more than just an anime; it's a cultural phenomenon that has touched the lives of millions of people around the world. From the heartwarming friendships to the epic battles and the profound themes, Naruto offers a rich and rewarding viewing experience. Whether you're a seasoned anime fan or new to the genre, Naruto is a series that is sure to captivate and inspire. So, grab some ramen, gather your friends, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure with Naruto and his comrades. And remember, never give up, believe in yourself, and always strive to achieve your dreams, just like Naruto Uzumaki. Believe it!