Determining which Naruto to watch first requires understanding the franchise's structure, as it is not a single story but a collection of interconnected sagas. The primary distinction lies between the original series and its sequel, Boruto, with the original Naruto and Naruto Shippuden forming the core narrative experience. For anyone new to the world, the path forward is clear, yet the sheer volume of episodes can be intimidating, making a strategic approach essential.
Understanding the Two Main Eras
The franchise is divided into two main eras: Naruto (Part I) and Naruto Shippuden (Part II). Naruto covers the early journey of Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja seeking recognition and dreaming of becoming the Hokage, the leader of his village. Shippuden, however, jumps forward in time by two and a half years, delving into the war-torn landscape and the complex consequences of the actions taken in the original series. Watching Shippuden without the foundation of the original series is strongly discouraged, as it robs the viewer of the character development and world-building that makes the later arcs so impactful.
The Case for the Original Naruto
Starting with the original Naruto is the traditional and recommended approach for newcomers. This 220-episode series establishes the fundamental lore, the dynamics of the hidden villages, and the intricate rules of the ninja world. It allows the audience to form deep connections with the core trio—Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura—before they mature. The story introduces iconic villains and foundational conflicts that make the resolution in Shippuden far more satisfying, providing the necessary emotional weight to the characters' journeys.
The Optimal Viewing Path
For the best experience, viewers should watch Naruto (Part I) completely before moving to Naruto Shippuden. This ensures that the stakes are understood and the relationships are fully established. Skipping the original series is a common mistake that leads to confusion regarding character motivations and the history of the ninja world. The effort required to watch the first series pays off exponentially when the narrative elevates in the second part.
Series | Episodes | Best For
Naruto (Part I) | 220 | Introduction to characters and world-building
Naruto Shippuden | 500 | The climax of the story and character resolutions
Boruto: Naruto Next Generations | 300+ | Following the next generation of heroes
Addressing the Spin-offs and Movies
While the core story is contained within the two main series, there are numerous movies and spin-offs that exist outside the main continuity. These are generally considered non-canon, meaning they do not affect the primary storyline and can be enjoyed at any point. For viewers asking which Naruto to watch first, it is safe to ignore the vast majority of these fillers and side stories until the main plot is complete. The only exception might be the earlier movies, which are often lighter in tone and designed for younger audiences, but they remain optional distractions rather than essential viewing.
