Naruto is one of the most popular shonen anime and manga series that has enjoyed a level of success that very few series have managed to achieve. While this series is adored by fans worldwide, there are certain complaints regarding a few aspects of it.
One of the most common complaints among fans is the prevalence of filler episodes. Sometimes, filler episodes are necessary when the anime is catching up to the manga, but the series has a ton of them. Hence, we have compiled a list of filler episodes that can be avoided while watching the series.
We have prepared a list of all such filler episodes from the main series and also from Shippuden. Both these series have over 41% filler content, which could be tiresome for new viewers or for those trying to rewatch the whole series. While some fillers can be interesting, like the episode where they try to see Kakashi's unmasked face (Shippuden 469), most are irrelevant to the plot progression.
Naruto filler episodes you can skip without worry
Before we get into the list, some of the Naruto filler episodes are enjoyable to watch, and a good chunk of the fan base tends to watch every single episode. However, these filler episodes don’t have a significant effect on the plot, and one can avoid these while watching this series. The list also includes filler episodes from Shippuden.
Naruto filler episodes list
Naruto Shippuden filler episodes list
It is worth mentioning that skipping Naruto filler episodes will not affect the understanding of the plot. However, some of the filler episodes are entertaining to watch. It is advisable to watch some of the fillers based on the viewer's interests. Animation studios generally add filler to add length to the series and retain their slots for broadcasting. Shows that run longer are, quite simply, more profitable.
For example, episodes 257 through 260 show important flashbacks from the titular character's childhood which help set up the dynamics between different characters. The Power arc was released as a part of the celebration of completing 500 episodes. It also acts as a break before the start of the Fourth Great Ninja War officially begins in the anime.
Episode 416 takes a step back from the events of the present and features a young Kakashi and Obito with Rin as members of Team Minato. It shows the trust that held them in the past and their collective admiration for Minato. The scene returns to the present in the next episode but the viewers get a taste of Obito and Kakashi working as a team in the past as they do against Madara now.
Also read: Why is the Naruto live-action film a step in the wrong direction?
Filler episodes are frequently criticized for deviating from the main plot. Yet, they can also provide space for additional character development and world-building, which can improve the entire viewing experience. They can introduce new characters and delve into the backstories of existing characters, making the Naruto world richer than the mangaka could.
Synopsis
Many years ago, the Nine-Tailed Beast attacked Konohagakure. In an attempt to save the village, the Fourth Hokage and his wife sacrificed their life and sealed the beast in their son. Orphaned by the Tailed Beast’s attack, he was ignored by the villagers, who harbored a great deal of animosity towards him out of fear and hatred.
Growing up in such conditions, the young boy wanted to be acknowledged by everyone in the village. He then decided to become the greatest Hokage in the village. With a handful of friends who look out for him, he sets on a journey to hone his potential and become the best shinobi ever.
In his journey, he learns to harness his powers as a Jinchuriki, trains under the famous Sanin Jiraiya, and forms many valuable bonds that would
Follow us for updates as Naruto anime returns. The studio is releasing four episodes of the anime, which will start running in September 2023 for all fans to watch, in honor of the 20th anniversary of the original anime's debut.