For anime enthusiasts diving into the world of ninjas, Naruto Shippuden stands as a must-watch series. Picking up years after the original Naruto series, Shippuden follows Naruto Uzumaki’s teenage years and his journey to protect his friends and become Hokage. But before you jump into Shippuden, understanding the foundation laid by the first part of Naruto is highly recommended for a richer viewing experience.
Why Watching Naruto Before Shippuden Enhances Your Experience
Skipping the original Naruto might seem tempting, but you’d be missing out on crucial elements that make Shippuden truly impactful:
Deep Character Development: The initial Naruto series meticulously introduces and develops its characters from their academy days. You witness their growth, understand their relationships, and connect with their individual struggles and triumphs. This foundation is vital for appreciating their Shippuden transformations. Imagine starting a book halfway through – you’d miss the crucial beginnings that shape the characters you see later.
Witnessing the Growth in Strength: Naruto starts with basic ninja techniques, making even a simple clone jutsu feel like a significant achievement. Watching the characters train and fight from the ground up allows you to appreciate their power progression. Shippuden throws you into a world of advanced techniques and powerful characters immediately, which can diminish the impact of these advancements if you haven’t seen their origins. It’s like seeing the final level boss without understanding the journey to get there.
Understanding the Story’s Depth: Naruto isn’t just about action; it’s about relationships, village dynamics, and intricate backstories. The first part lays the groundwork for the complex narratives and emotional weight of Shippuden. Skipping it means missing vital context, especially the childhood arcs that shape the motivations and conflicts in Shippuden, which is heavily focused on war and its consequences.
Where Can You Watch Naruto and Naruto Shippuden?
Fortunately, accessing both Naruto and Naruto Shippuden is easier than ever through various streaming platforms. You can find both series on major platforms like Crunchyroll and Hulu. These services offer both subbed and dubbed versions, catering to different preferences. For viewers in certain regions, Netflix and Funimation might also host Naruto and Naruto Shippuden. Always check the availability in your region to ensure you can start your ninja journey seamlessly.
Starting with the original Naruto and then moving into Shippuden allows you to fully appreciate the intricate world-building, character arcs, and power scaling that make this series so beloved. Don’t miss the chance to experience Naruto’s journey from the very beginning – it’s an adventure worth embarking on fully.
