Table of Contents
For fans of anime, navigating through the vast universe of ‘Naruto’ and ‘Naruto Shippuden’ can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to understanding what is considered canon and non-canon. Canon refers to the episodes and arcs that are part of the original manga storyline, while non-canon includes filler episodes and arcs that do not contribute to the main plot. This guide will help you watch ‘Naruto’ and ‘Naruto Shippuden’ in the right order, ensuring you experience the essential story without the distractions of filler content.
Understanding Canon vs. Non-Canon
Before diving into the viewing order, it’s important to understand the distinction between canon and non-canon content in the ‘Naruto’ series. Here’s a brief overview:
- Canon: This includes all episodes and arcs that follow the original storyline created by Masashi Kishimoto.
- Non-Canon: These are filler episodes and arcs that do not appear in the manga and are often added to extend the series.
Viewing Order for ‘Naruto’
‘Naruto’ consists of 220 episodes, which can be divided into canon and non-canon segments. Here’s how to watch it:
- Episodes 1-25: Canon
- Episodes 26-97: Non-Canon (Filler)
- Episodes 98-100: Canon
- Episodes 101-141: Non-Canon (Filler)
- Episodes 142-220: Canon
Viewing Order for ‘Naruto Shippuden’
‘Naruto Shippuden’ continues the story with 500 episodes, and it also has a mix of canon and non-canon content. Follow this order for the best experience:
- Episodes 1-56: Canon
- Episodes 57-71: Non-Canon (Filler)
- Episodes 72-126: Canon
- Episodes 127-136: Non-Canon (Filler)
- Episodes 137-175: Canon
- Episodes 176-196: Non-Canon (Filler)
- Episodes 197-221: Canon
- Episodes 222-242: Non-Canon (Filler)
- Episodes 243-256: Canon
- Episodes 257-260: Non-Canon (Filler)
- Episodes 261-270: Canon
- Episodes 271-289: Non-Canon (Filler)
- Episodes 290-493: Canon
- Episodes 494-500: Non-Canon (Filler)
Why Skip Filler Episodes?
Filler episodes can sometimes be entertaining, but they often do not contribute to the overall narrative of the series. Here are a few reasons why you might choose to skip them:
- Story Continuity: Skipping fillers helps maintain the flow of the main story.
- Character Development: Canon episodes focus more on character growth and essential plot points.
- Time Efficiency: Watching only canon episodes saves time and keeps the viewing experience more engaging.
Recommended Viewing Experience
To enhance your viewing experience, consider the following tips:
- Watch with Friends: Enjoying the series with friends can make the experience more enjoyable.
- Take Breaks: Given the long episode count, taking breaks can prevent burnout.
- Explore the Manga: Reading the manga alongside the anime can provide additional insights into the story.
Conclusion
By following this guide, you can navigate through ‘Naruto’ and ‘Naruto Shippuden’ with ease, focusing on the canon episodes that drive the story forward. Whether you are a first-time viewer or revisiting the series, this structured approach will enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the beloved anime.