How to Watch Naruto in Order

Naruto is one of the most iconic and beloved anime series of all time, following the journey of Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja with dreams of becoming the strongest ninja and the Hokage, the leader of his village. The series, which includes Naruto and its sequel Naruto: Shippuden, has captivated fans worldwide with its compelling characters, intense battles, and powerful story arcs. However, with over 700 episodes and multiple movies, knowing how to watch Naruto in order can be a bit daunting. This guide will walk you through the correct order to watch Naruto, including the episodes, movies, and even the follow-up series, Boruto: Naruto Next Generations.

1. Introduction to the Naruto Series

Naruto is divided into two main series: the original Naruto and its sequel Naruto: Shippuden. The story begins with Naruto as a young ninja-in-training and follows him as he grows, learns, and faces increasingly dangerous enemies. The series is known for its rich world-building, deep character development, and epic battles.

1.1. Understanding the Story

The story of Naruto is centered around Naruto Uzumaki, a ninja from the Hidden Leaf Village. With the nine-tailed fox demon sealed within him, Naruto is often shunned by his peers, but he dreams of earning their respect by becoming the Hokage. The series explores themes of friendship, perseverance, and the fight between good and evil.

1.2. Main Series and Spin-Offs

The Naruto universe is vast, with the main storyline divided between Naruto and Naruto: Shippuden. In addition, there are several movies and the sequel series, Boruto: Naruto Next Generations, which focuses on Naruto’s son.

2. Watching Naruto in Order

2.1. Naruto (2002-2007)

The original Naruto series introduces us to Naruto Uzumaki and the world of ninjas. This series consists of 220 episodes and covers Naruto’s early years as a ninja, from his academy days to his journey with Jiraiya. Here’s how to watch it:

1. Episodes 1-5: Introduction and the formation of Team 7.
2. Episodes 6-19: The Land of Waves arc.
3. Episodes 20-67: The Chunin Exams arc, where Naruto and his friends face other ninja teams in a grueling competition.
4. Episodes 68-80: The Konoha Crush arc, where the village is attacked, leading to some significant battles.
5. Episodes 81-100: The Search for Tsunade arc, where Naruto meets one of the Legendary Sannin.
6. Episodes 101-141: The Sasuke Retrieval arc, focusing on Sasuke’s defection from the village.
7. Episodes 142-220: These are mostly filler episodes, which can be skipped if you’re focusing on the main story. However, some of these episodes offer fun side stories and character development.

2.2. Naruto: Shippuden (2007-2017)

Naruto: Shippuden picks up two and a half years after the original series, with Naruto returning to the Hidden Leaf Village after intense training. This series delves into more mature themes and more complex battles. Naruto: Shippuden has 500 episodes, and here’s the best way to watch it:

1. Episodes 1-32: The Kazekage Rescue arc, where Naruto and his team go to save Gaara.
2. Episodes 33-53: The Tenchi Bridge Reconnaissance Mission, where Naruto and Sakura search for Sasuke.
3. Episodes 54-71: The Hidan and Kakuzu arc, focusing on the Akatsuki organization.
4. Episodes 72-88: The Itachi Pursuit Mission, leading to a critical confrontation between Sasuke and Itachi.
5. Episodes 89-112: The Kakashi Chronicles and the battle with Deidara.
6. Episodes 113-143: The Tale of Jiraiya the Gallant and the Pain Invasion arc, including the major battle between Naruto and Pain.
7. Episodes 144-175: The Five Kage Summit, which sets up the Fourth Great Ninja War.
8. Episodes 176-196: The Prophecy and Vengeance arc.
9. Episodes 197-222: The Confining the Jinchuriki arc, leading into the Fourth Great Ninja War.
10. Episodes 223-295: The Fourth Great Ninja War (Part 1) – This part of the series includes both canon and filler episodes, so you can choose to skip some of the filler arcs if you’re focused on the main plot.
11. Episodes 296-343: The Fourth Great Ninja War (Part 2) – Major battles take place during these episodes, including Naruto’s transformation.
12. Episodes 344-361: The Ten Tails Revival arc, where the war reaches its climax.
13. Episodes 362-375: The Birth of the Ten Tails’ Jinchuriki arc.
14. Episodes 376-479: The Kaguya Otsutsuki Strikes arc, which brings the war to its final conclusion.
15. Episodes 480-500: These are mostly epilogues and character wrap-ups, leading to the end of Naruto’s journey.

2.3. Naruto Movies

Throughout the series, several Naruto movies were released. Here’s how to watch them in order of continuity:

1. Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow – Watch after episode 101 of Naruto.
2. Naruto the Movie: Legend of the Stone of Gelel – Watch after episode 160 of Naruto.
3. Naruto the Movie: Guardians of the Crescent Moon Kingdom – Watch after episode 196 of Naruto.
4. Naruto Shippuden the Movie – Watch after episode 53 of Naruto: Shippuden.
5. Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Bonds – Watch after episode 71 of Naruto: Shippuden.
6. Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire – Watch after episode 121 of Naruto: Shippuden.
7. Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Lost Tower – Watch after episode 143 of Naruto: Shippuden.
8. Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Blood Prison – Watch after episode 196 of Naruto: Shippuden.
9. Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Road to Ninja – Watch after episode 251 of Naruto: Shippuden.
10. The Last: Naruto the Movie – Watch after episode 493 of Naruto: Shippuden.

2.4. Boruto: Naruto Next Generations

Boruto: Naruto Next Generations is the sequel series that follows the adventures of Naruto’s son, Boruto, and the new generation of ninjas. It’s best to watch this series after finishing Naruto: Shippuden and the accompanying movies.

1. Episodes 1-51: The early days of Boruto’s training and the Chunin Exams arc.
2. Episodes 52-present: The series is ongoing, and the episodes follow Boruto’s journey as he learns about his heritage and faces new threats.

3. Streaming Platforms to Watch Naruto

3.1. Crunchyroll

Crunchyroll is the most popular platform for watching anime, including the entire Naruto series. Both Naruto and Naruto: Shippuden are available in subbed and dubbed versions. The platform offers free streaming with ads or a premium subscription for ad-free viewing and access to simulcasts.

3.2. Hulu

Hulu offers all episodes of Naruto and Naruto: Shippuden with both English subtitles and dubs. Hulu is an excellent option for U.S. viewers who want to stream the series along with other shows and movies. The platform offers a free trial for new users, making it easy to start watching without an immediate cost.

3.3. Netflix (Select Regions)

In certain regions, including Canada, Netflix offers the Naruto series for streaming. The availability of episodes may vary by country, so check your local Netflix library to see if Naruto and Naruto: Shippuden are included.

3.4. Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video offers episodes of Naruto and Naruto: Shippuden for purchase. This option is ideal if you prefer to own the series digitally and watch it on your own schedule. Once purchased, you can download episodes for offline viewing.

3.5. Vudu

Vudu provides another option for renting or purchasing Naruto episodes in digital format. You can watch the series in HD and download episodes for offline viewing. Vudu is a popular choice for those who prefer to maintain a digital library.

4. Watching Naruto on DVD and Blu-ray

4.1. Complete DVD Box Sets

For those who prefer physical media, Naruto and Naruto: Shippuden are available in various DVD box sets. These sets often include complete seasons and may come with special features like interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and exclusive artwork.

4.2. Blu-ray Collections

The Naruto series is also available on Blu-ray, offering superior video and audio quality. Blu-ray collections are ideal for fans who want the best possible viewing experience and may include additional content that enhances the enjoyment of the series.

4.3. Special Edition Box Sets

Special edition box sets may include collectible items such as character figurines, exclusive art books, or posters. These sets are perfect for dedicated fans who want to add something special to their collection.

5. International Viewing Options

5.1. Crunchyroll

Crunchyroll is a global platform, making it accessible in many countries. It’s the go-to platform for watching Naruto in most regions, offering the series in multiple languages with subtitles.

5.2. Netflix (Select Regions)

As mentioned earlier, Netflix offers the Naruto series in select regions. This is a convenient option for international viewers, allowing you to stream all episodes with subtitles or dubbing in various languages.

5.3. Local Streaming Services

In some countries, Naruto may be available on regional streaming services that specialize in anime and international content. Platforms like Stan in Australia or Crave in Canada might carry the series, so check your local streaming providers for availability.

6. Free and Discounted Viewing Options

6.1. Crunchyroll Free Plan

Crunchyroll offers a free plan that allows you to watch Naruto with ads. This is an excellent way to start watching the series without any upfront costs. If you prefer an ad-free experience, you can upgrade to Crunchyroll’s premium plan.

6.2. Hulu Free Trial

Hulu offers a free trial for new users, which includes access to Naruto and Naruto: Shippuden. This is a great way to watch the series without immediate cost. Just be sure to cancel before the trial ends if you don’t wish to continue with a paid subscription.

6.3. Library Services

Some public libraries offer digital rentals through services like Hoopla or Kanopy. Check with your local library to see if Naruto is available for free streaming through these platforms. This can be a cost-effective way to watch the series without needing to subscribe to a streaming service.

7. Mobile Apps for Watching Naruto

7.1. Crunchyroll App

The Crunchyroll app allows you to watch Naruto on the go, whether you’re using a smartphone, tablet, or smart TV. The app also supports offline downloads, so you can watch episodes even without an internet connection.

7.2. Hulu App

If you’re subscribed to Hulu, you can watch Naruto using the Hulu app, available on both Android and iOS. The app allows you to stream or download episodes, making it easy to watch whether you’re at home or on the move.

7.3. Netflix App

The Netflix app offers a convenient way to watch Naruto in regions where the series is available. The app supports high-definition streaming and offline downloads, making it easy to enjoy the series anytime, anywhere.

7.4. Amazon Prime Video App

The Amazon Prime Video app is a great option for watching Naruto on various devices. You can rent or purchase episodes through the app, and like Crunchyroll and Hulu, it offers the option to download episodes for offline viewing.

8. Enhancing Your Viewing Experience

8.1. Watch Parties

Naruto is a fantastic series to enjoy with friends or family. Consider hosting a watch party where you can discuss your favorite moments, battles, and character development. Streaming platforms like Crunchyroll offer features that allow you to sync up with others remotely.

8.2. Themed Marathons

Plan a Naruto marathon to immerse yourself fully in the world of ninjas. You can focus on different arcs, such as the Chunin Exams or the Fourth Great Ninja War, to experience the series in a new way.

8.3. Behind-the-Scenes Content

If you’re interested in learning more about the making of Naruto, be sure to check out any behind-the-scenes footage, documentaries, or cast interviews included in the DVD or Blu-ray sets. These features provide valuable insights into the production process and the creativity behind the series.

9. Using Stremio and Torrentio

For those exploring alternative methods to watch Naruto, Stremio and Torrentio offer additional options. Stremio is a versatile media center that aggregates content from various sources, including TV shows and movies. By installing the right add-ons, you can access Naruto from multiple streaming services. Torrentio, a Stremio add-on, streams content from torrent sources, providing high-quality streams. However, it’s important to be mindful of the legal and privacy risks associated with using torrent-based services.