What Is The Best Way To Follow Naruto In Order?

Naruto is one of those series that feels like a rite of passage for anime fans, and figuring out the best way to experience it can be a bit overwhelming given its sheer length and the multiple spin-offs. The most straightforward approach is to start with the original 'Naruto' anime, which covers the early years of Naruto Uzumaki’s journey from a mischievous outcast to a budding ninja. This first part lays the foundation for everything that follows, introducing key characters like Sasuke, Sakura, and Kakashi, as well as the hidden village of Konoha. It’s got a mix of humor, heart, and action that hooks you right away, though fair warning: the filler episodes can slow things down. I’d recommend using a guide to skip the non-canon filler arcs if you’re aiming for a tighter narrative flow.

After finishing 'Naruto,' you’ll want to move straight into 'Naruto: Shippuden,' which picks up after a time skip and follows an older, more mature Naruto. This is where the story really deepens, with darker themes, higher stakes, and some of the most iconic battles in anime history. Again, filler is an issue here—'Shippuden' has over 500 episodes, and a good chunk of them aren’t part of the original manga. Skipping filler will save you a lot of time without missing out on crucial plot points. Once you’ve completed 'Shippuden,' you can explore the sequel series 'Boruto: Naruto Next Generations,' though opinions on it are mixed. Some fans love seeing the next generation of characters, while others feel it doesn’t quite capture the magic of the original. If you’re a completionist, the movies and OVAs are worth checking out too, but they’re optional. Personally, I think the core series is more than enough to leave you emotionally invested and satisfied.