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Naruto is full of intense, emotionally-charged battles which push fans to the edge as they try to predict the victor. Out of all these battles, the battle between Gaara and Rock Lee during the Chunin Exams arc is perhaps the most iconic. The fight, which was the representation of raw determination going against unbreakable defense, was poetic and remains a fan favorite to this day. However, after carefully examining the fight, we have to say that Rock Lee should have won.

Gaara should have been in no position to fight after what Rock Lee put him through. Dude was wiping the floor with him, and yet, Gaara won after Rock Lee couldn’t handle the strain the Fourth Gate and the Primary Lotus put on his body. This right here, ladies and gentlemen, is peak plot armor.

Naruto’s Rock Lee vs Gaara fight is a Taijutsu masterclass Rock Lee...

For a long time, anime fans deemed Tite Kubo’s series as the weakest among the Big 3. But is that the case? Well, Bleach does so many things differently, but sure as heck, it is anything but weak. This stands true for its themes.

It isn’t all wishy washy when it comes to characters or its plot. Rather, it serves a purpose through its core elements. It isn’t merely a story about Shinigami or other creatures per se, it’s deeper than you think.

In retrospect, Kubo did social commentary so much better than his contemporaries. Not Naruto or One Piece, but Bleach underlined the social evils, which makes it a Shonen masterpiece, and here’s how.

1. Tite Kubo highlighted political intrigue through hierarchy The original Gotei 13 in a still from Bleach: Thousand Year Blood War anime | Credit: Studio Pierrot

Hierarchy takes the center stage in Tite Kubo’s series.

Do you think anime’s just for otaku teens with manga and collectibles? Well, think again. Literally, you’d be surprised to know how many Hollywood stars are totally hooked on it. Yep, we’re actually talking about full-blown anime fans, who love binge-watching and merch-buying. From action heroes who’re obsessed with Dragon Ball Z to rom-com queens crushing on Spirited Away, these A-list stars aren’t just dabbling, they’re deep in it.

It turns out that they’ve quoted anime in interviews, rock Naruto gear, and have even debated subs vs dubs like true fans. Of course, it’s not just a hobby, it’s a passion. All anime lovers know that this genre has officially gone from a mere niche to an A-list, and these stars are proudly flying their fandom flags. So, when you’re watching Attack on Titan next time, just know that one...

Let’s be real! Naruto had some of the edgiest and sassiest ninjas. This also applies to their powers and abilities. Be it kekkei genkai or clan jutsu, the series was pure novelty, so to speak.

Masashi Kishimoto often doesn’t get enough credit for the rich worldbuilding the series had. There were lands and villages beyond the five Great Shinobi Nations, and boy, they had endless potential.

So, here we are, discussing not one or two but five lesser-known shinobi villages that were on par with the great ninja nations. They’re ranked in terms of their strength and power. So what are we waiting for? Let’s unpack this!

5. Land of the Sky: where technology meets warfare Land of Sky in a still from Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Bonds | Credit: Studio Pierrot

Land of the Sky is featured in the non-canonical movie Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Bonds. The...

While Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War has been extremely well-received by fans, that wasn't always the case for the original anime, which was often criticized for poor animation and excessive amounts of filler. However, the studio behind Bleach, Naruto, and many other anime is now reaffirming their intention of doing better.

In 2024, Pierrot created a new division, called "Pierrot Films," which was created by producer Yoshihiro Tominaga with the motto of "creating animation that deeply moves the heart" in mind. Pierrot Films took over the animation of Thousand-Year Blood War, and so far that transition has mostly resulted in the release date for Thousand-Year Blood War part 4 being pushed back. However, the reason for this delay is the intention to create the best animation possible, and taking extra time to do things right is exactly what's needed in the animation field these days.

Pierrot's Producer Promises The Best The Studio's New...

Tite Kubo’s Bleach is one of the Big 3 Shonen manga, which changed the genre’s landscape forever with its beautiful visuals, intricate characters, and well-written powers. The bankai, which is fundamental to Bleach‘s power system, is creative, and Byakuya Kuchiki’s bankai is the most breathtaking bankai of all. His bankai, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi, is a serene yet deadly bankai that transcends stereotypes.

The bankai, while being beautiful to look at (especially in Bleach: Thousand Year Blood War), appealed to a wide audience and redefined a Shonen man. Here is a detailed review of how the bankai subverts Shonen expectations.

Bleach redefined Shonen men with Byakuya and his power Kuchiki Byakuya from Bleach: Thousand Year Blood War Arc | Credits: Studio Pierrot

Shonen manga often characterizes its male characters as being tough-looking brutes who power through everything while ignoring a perfectly sane plan crafted by their companions. Think of Luffy from One Piece,...

Alright, let’s go back to Marineford, the complete chaos hub of the One Piece world. Whitebeard’s literally shaking the earth, admirals are tossing mountains around like they’re feather pillows, and everybody’s panicking while Luffy runs amok on the battlefield with plot armor so dense it could even withstand a nuke. But then, it happens.

Whitebeard, our earthquake daddy, just straight-up shoves his bisento all the way through Aokiji’s chest, and ice cracks everywhere like it’s glass. Even a marine screams, “He stabbed him with pure Haki!!” And we’re all like, “Bro, He’S Dead.” Only to know he isn’t. Kuzan’s just showing up on screen two panels later, chilling (literally) and firing ice spears like nothing has ever happened. So yeah, let’s unpack the mystery.

So, how did Kuzan survive Whitebeard’s Attack in One Piece?

If you remember when...

A lot of shonen anime are known for their brilliantly animated fight scenes and the high stakes that come with them. For me, personally, the thing that draws me to shonen (and the battles within) is the characters involved, their reasons for fighting, and the camaraderie that generally comes with it. Stories of unbreakable bonds, fighting for the sake of others, and seeing the good in those who are generally written off by society comes with the territory. Wind Breaker showcases this beautifully and, surprisingly, it does so pretty quickly. Whether it’s a good ol’ fashioned tournament set up or an all-out brawl to kickstart the second season, Wind Breaker highlights so many of the things that I love about shonen anime. It’s like the series looked at its shonen predecessors, thanked them for their hard work, and decided to unapologetically embrace their lessons immediately. So please let...

The official YouTube channel for five-piece Japanese rock band Flow has started streaming a music video for their upcoming 41st CD single song "Alright!!!," which is now featured as the ending theme for the spring 2025 TV anime From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman . Flow "Alright!!!" Music Video From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman Creditless Ending Video Flow made their major debut in 2004 and is known for their theme song works for Naruto , Eureka Seven, and Code Geass among anime fans. The CD release of "Alright!!!" is set to release in Japan on May 28. Prior to the CD release, the title track released digitally on April 6. Time-limited production edition CD jacket Flow artist illustration Related: From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman Anime Reveals New Trailer and Cast The TV anime adaptation of Shigeru Sagazaki's From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman fantasy light novel series premiered in Japan...

More than a decade after it first aired, Naruto: Shippuden's iconic battle between Naruto Uzumaki and Pain remains one of the series' most unforgettable moments. It marked a turning point not just in Naruto’s power, but in his emotional arc—culminating in the devastating Six Tails transformation after Hinata’s near-death. Now, this legendary fight is being reimagined with stunning new animation, courtesy of the official Naruto mobile game. The short teaser offers fans a fresh look at the intensity and heartbreak of that pivotal scene.

Though not part of a full remake, the clip shared by Naruto fan @theNHcrew on X recreates the lead-up to Naruto’s transformation with vivid, cinematic flair. It highlights three emotional moments that fans know well: Hinata collapsed in a pool of blood, the shattered remains of Tsunade’s chakra necklace, and the ominous sealing gate where Naruto's connection to the Nine Tails begins to spiral.

Over the years, anime has evolved from a niche interest to a global phenomenon. Gen Z, in particular, has played a huge role in this. A recent survey commissioned by Crunchyroll reveals the impact anime has had on this group of people, with a staggering 44% of entertainment consumers identifying as anime fans.

How did this once-niche medium become a cornerstone of Gen Z’s lives and childhoods? Is it perhaps its compelling ability to weave emotionally resonant narratives with likeable characters?

Anime’s emotional depth made it a cultural force Goku’s horse stance from Dragon Ball Super | Credits: Toei Animation

Crunchyroll commissioned a study that revealed that 44% of entertainment consumers identify as anime fans, meaning they are interested in exploring Japanese animation and manga. The survey also highlights that several of these people consider anime to be a tool of self-expression and moral guidance. Most popular stories in this...

Gege Akutami’s Jujutsu Kaisen is one of the most popular shonen series ever. Be it the action-packed storyline, gripping narrative, a range of layered characters, or the twists and turns that await at every turn, Akutami’s series excels in every aspect. However, the problem with fame is that it brings comparisons in its tow.

As it stands, Jujutsu Kaisen has been compared to death to many of its predecessors ever since it started airing. While many have been pointing out the similarities between Gege Akutami’s series and Naruto, the biggest comparison it has been facing is undoubtedly Bleach.

Rightfully so, as the mangaka themselves have noted that they took inspiration from Tite Kubo’s series. Interestingly, though, what many might have missed out on is that Akutami might have been stealing ideas from another source throughout the length of their series. That source is, of course, Jujutsu Kaisen itself.

Anime has always been a vibrant, passionate subculture, but in recent years, it has exploded into the mainstream through series like Naruto, especially among young women. One recent example has gone viral: a stunning teen showed up to prom in a custom orange dress featuring Naruto Uzumaki himself on the back. With a design that was both elegant and proudly nerdy, she turned heads for all the right reasons. Her look was not just fashion, it was a love letter to one of anime’s most beloved characters.

What made the moment even more powerful was what it represented in a shift in how fandom is expressed. Anime fans, especially girls, have often been made to feel like their interests do not belong in formal spaces. But that is changing. This dress from TikTok account @ollie_kitchen32did not just honor Naruto; it defied outdated expectations about what a prom dress “should” look like.

There’s always that one god-tier character in a Shonen anime, and Naruto is no exception. We got Hashirama Senju, whose strength and prowess were unmatchable. His feats were legendary, and so was his fame, but that’s not it.

His rivalry with Madara and connection to the Sage of Six Paths were foreshadowed way earlier. The original series represented him as a fabled hero who brought peace to the Leaf Village. But what if the roles were reversed?

What if he was the final villain after all? How would things look if he switched places with Madara? Well, it would be interesting nonetheless, as it would highlight the battle of two legends. So let’s unpack this now, shall we?

What if Hashirama was a villain in Naruto?

Hashirama Senju, aka the First Hokage, is a force to be reckoned with. He was the true reincarnation of Asura and...

The rivalry between Black Clover and Naruto is a tale as old as time. Black Clover has always been called a Naruto knockoff, and allegations have been made against it for copying the series. But it’s not Naruto that is having the last laugh.

Black Clover has always stood out in the Shonen field. Its focus on side characters and female characterization has made it steer away from some of the issues Naruto has faced. The wholesome message behind the series and its protagonist is also well-received. But who knew that it could snag a win against Naruto someday?

Crunchyroll ratings favor Black Clover over Naruto

In a surprising turn of events, Black Clover turned out to have better ratings than Naruto on Crunchyroll. The streaming site has a 4.8 rating for Black Clover while Naruto has received a 4.7 rating. It should also be noted that Black Clover has received...

Studio Pierrot cemented its name as one of the top-tier animation giants through its splendid work. They gave us some of the most iconic Shonen and Shojo anime. This only proves their diversity when we look at their roster.

With Boruto, though, the animation studio left an indelible mark. This strengthens the criticism readers had against the anime. The backlash is valid since most consider this to be an ever-looming curse, but here’s the thing.

There needs to be an exception when it comes to Black Clover. The curse seems to haunt most productions, and Yuki Tabata’s series is no different. Yet they should make an exception when it comes to Season 5, and here’s why.

The Studio Pierrot curse that plagued Boruto Boruto Uzumaki’s ugly crying face in the anime | Credit: Studio Pierrot

Be it the same face syndrome or misportrayal of characters, Boruto got a...

Both Naruto and One Piece have plenty of great characters, as well as wonderful villains. Not as much wonderful as they are terrifying, though. But only one of them can reign supreme, and if given a choice, it might turn out to be Pain.

One Piece has villains like Crocodile, Kaido, Spandam, the Celestial Dragons, and Orochi, basically people who can make anyone’s blood boil. Then how come Nagato is the one dethroning them? Well, it is all thanks to some of the sickest quotes he has dropped in Naruto from time to time.

Nagato deserves to be the best villain in Naruto and One Piece combined

Pain is one of the most compelling characters in Naruto because of his duality as a villain. He might have been an antagonist, but after watching his struggle and background, almost anyone would be convinced by his philosophy, especially since it wasn’t entirely wrong.

Globally beloved anime series Naruto has launched an exciting new footwear collaboration with Converse. The upcoming sneaker line features 16 customizable designs and is set for release in the U.S. on May 22, 2025.

Via Viz Media, Naruto and Converse are teaming up for a new limited-edition sneaker line featuring Converse’s "iconic style, the Ninja Way." The upcoming collection is set for release on May 22 and will include several unique sneaker designs in various Naruto and Naruto Shippuden character themes, plus a new customizable version of the classic Chuck Taylor with Naruto’s iconic symbols. The upcoming release will also feature some Naruto-themed apparel, including a jacket, three T-shirts and a backpack. The line will be available at Converse.com; official images can be seen below.

Converse Goes Anime With New Naruto Shoe Line Release This Month for International Fans Converse x Naruto Shippuden — Iconic style, the ninja way âðŸ...

Converse is gearing up for a big collaboration with the Naruto Shippuden anime, including a bunch of Chuck Taylor All Star shoes styled after various characters from Masashi Kishimoto’s series. The Converse x Naruto Shippuden line goes live on May 22 at 7:00 a.m. Pt. All Stars will be available in Naruto, Sasuke, Gaara, Kakashi and Itachi styles. Some of the styles are also available in Easy-On form, and there are a bunch of options for Converse By You styles with customizable character and emblem artwork. The custom Chucks let you choose from Rock Lee, Gaara, Itachi, Minato, Naruto, Kakashi, Sakura and Sasuke. Beyond the shoes, there are t-shirts, jackets and backpacks on the way. You can see all the available styles on the official website ahead of launch, and check out some samples below. Converse x Naruto Shippuden Chuck Taylor All Star Converse x Naruto Shippuden Sasuke Chuck...

A great anime series can leave its mark in as few as a dozen installments, but there's something to be said for a show that stretches out its story over years or even decades and reaps the benefits of maximizing the time viewers have spent with its characters. The lengthiest anime shows cover wide thematic ground too — unlike American television animation, where the longest-running shows tend to be loose, endlessly resettable comedies in which continuity is basically thrown out the window, Japan's anime industry has been able to produce numerous long-lasting series in the serialized adventure genre. The absolute longest-running ones, though, tend to be geared towards young children.

Producing a ranking of anime series by episode count is challenging due to the various franchises out there consisting of multiple series. Therefore, for the purposes of this ranking, we're considering only continuous Japanese runs, with no more than two years of hiatus sans new episodes.

Boruto: Two Blue Vortex is a clapback to haters who once underestimated the power of storytelling. The timeskip manga has truly stepped up its game: There are overpowered villains, high stakes, but that is not all.

The manga rectifies the errors through its tight pacing and compelling storyline. It draws parallels to Kishimoto’s series through its symbolism. This is true for imminent threats that can destroy Konoha, but the question remains.

Can the manga overshadow Pain’s obliteration of the Leaf in Naruto? There’s potential when it comes to the series. The power-ups, transformations, and revelations point to the end of an era. How so? Let’s find out.

Konoha’s destruction in Boruto: impactful or simply underwhelming?

Even under the Seventh Hokage’s reign, the Leaf Village isn’t exempt from threats in any case. Fans deem him weak in Boruto, and there are several reasons...

In some ways, Boruto brings back nostalgia in the best way possible. The teams, mentors, and jutsu would remind you of the original series, but that is not all there is to it. The villains are rather daunting and menacing, and Kawaki is an example of that.

As one of the fan-favorite characters, Kawaki is complex and layered in terms of his villainy. He is the bearer of Kama and is one of the pivotal antagonists in the series, which makes him all the more worthy of a power-up. But there’s a catch to that.

Kishimoto is willing to give the character two unique dojutsu abilities that would make him a god-tier character, as this theory suggests. It would ultimately mirror the idea of duality and completely redefine how we look at rivalry and power, and here’s how.

Kishimoto to give Kawaki two unique dojutsus Kawaki in a...

Like most anime, Naruto isn’t divorced from the concept of gluttony. Big, bulky guys eating to hone their strengths is more normal than you’d think. It all started with Dragon Ball, and we see Goku eating everything. Heck, even a dinosaur, come to think of it!

Then there’s Luffy, whose meat obsession is downright comical and abnormal. He often gets knocked out by Nami, and we all know it’s quite the gag in the series. However, Masashi Kishimoto gave us the perfect foodie when he wrote this character, and we gotta love him for that.

His obsession with food is on a different level altogether. It’s a recurring gag in the series, but we all know he’s more than that. That’s because food isn’t merely a survival tool, but more than that. It underlines the intricacies of characters, and here’s how.

Mitsuki has always been exceptionally talented in Boruto. According to Orochimaru, he has the potential to even surpass the Legendary Sannin. He is quite a mysterious character, and his role in the story has been intriguing, but he is yet to acquire full prowess over his abilities.

Mitsuki’s Sage Mode has been used in a few battles, but its entirety has not been revealed yet. It has untapped potential, which might even lead him to surpass Boruto and Sarada. One theory in particular

Mitsuki might overpower every Boruto character with a new Sage Mode

The Dragon Sage Mode theory might reposition Mitsuki as a God-tier threat in the world of Naruto and Boruto. Boruto has Kama, and Sarada has already awakened her Mangeyo Sharingan, but Mitsuki’s Sage Mode is different since it taps directly into nature’s energy. It has already been proven that Sage Mode is a dangerous power,...

Boruto: Two Blue Vortex is the new kid on the block that one shouldn’t take lightly in any case. The sequel is much better and refined compared to its previous series; the villains are menacing, the stakes are high, and the side characters aren’t mere fodder pieces.

To put it simply, it’s all about the potential. It heavily focuses on the Uzumaki clan and brings back some of the most iconic jutsu. This is refreshing, yet it would mean repeating patterns and keeping certain clans on the sidelines. Yes, this also includes the Nara clan, but there’s one thing that can fix this.

According to this theory, a power-up is all it takes to change the course and trajectory of Shikamaru’s clan. This move is a complete game-changer for his clan’s legacy, which can set a benchmark for the coming generations. It would also redefine power systems,...

Black Clover has been facing allegations of being a copy ever since its inception. Not a single day goes by without Naruto fans pointing out that Black Clover has copied a concept or character from the classic Shonen series. No matter how hard Black Clover tries, it remains in the indomitable shadow of one of the Big 3.

And it will stay that way if fans keep demanding stuff from Black Clover that has already been portrayed in Naruto. Fans of Black Clover have been waiting to see a showdown between Asta and Yuno in full Naruto vs Sasuke style. But they fail to see that it is not befitting of the series.

Black Clover fans are too obsessed with a Yuno vs. Asta showdown

Yuno and Asta have been established as rivals from the very beginning of Black Clover. Of course, people haven’t stopped drawing parallels with Naruto and Sasuke ever since.

For weebs, Naruto has a special place in our hearts, and I’m no different, considering how the series eventually grew on me as well. The fights, the worldbuilding, and the power systems are a novelty, and so are the characters.

However, Kishimoto wasted most of his side characters, and it is all too obvious. For me, the only regret is that he sidelined these 9 kunoichi who had so much potential. Who are they? Well, let’s check it out.

9. Konan: More than an origami artist

Only Masashi Kishimoto can make Origami look cool, but with Konan, it is more than that. From paper bombs and shurikens to clones and chakram, she had a wide arsenal of jutsu up her sleeve, but here’s the thing.

Konan using her signature jutsu | Credit: Studio Pierrot

She was reduced to Yahiko and Nagato’s best friend. Her ambitions and motives often revolved around fulfilling their goal.

First debuting in the pages of Shōnen Jump magazine in 1998, Hunter x Hunter has gone on to sell over 84 million copies worldwide, cementing its place among the best-selling manga of all time. Created by Yoshihiro Togashi, the series has inspired two hit anime adaptations and a dedicated global fanbase. While newer shōnen series like Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen dominate headlines, Hunter x Hunter remains a beloved and influential classic that all fans of the shōnen drama should experience.

Now, Hunter x Hunter is about to become more accessible to viewers than ever before. Pluto TV just rolled out its biggest free anime refresh yet, adding over 800 hours of content and more than 120 movies as part of its Ani-May event. This week, through Sunday, May 18, viewers will be able to catch a nonstop Hunter x Hunter marathon on the Anime All Day channel, following Gon and Killua through their most thrilling adventures.

When they say fights in Naruto are A-grade, they’re not lying. The series had us all bedazzled with the battle choreography, slick moves, and tight animation. There’s Minato versus Obito, and then there’s Kakashi’s showdown with Obito.

Honestly, it’s a chef’s kiss if one had to describe it. The flashbacks, the imagery, and the metaphors were blended to perfection. Studio Pierrot knew what they were doing however, there’s one fight that remains noteworthy. That’s because of one nameless side character that fans are fawning over.

Believe it or not, this character was toe to toe with Madara. It is spunky, it is zesty, and the duel is packed with impact, which makes it a complete visual treat. This is also one of the reasons why the Fourth Shinobi World War Arc is a whirlwind of emotions for us fans.

Naruto fans fawn...

Every time a manga’s inspiration is cited, you begin to notice the resemblance. While that’s generally the case, it might not hold true for Naruto. That is simply because it doesn’t resemble the legendary samurai manga that inspired Masashi Kishimoto. The samurai manga in question is Blade of the Immortal by Hiroaki Samura, and there’s a reason why Naruto doesn’t resemble it.

During an interview with Hiroaki Samura, Kishimoto admitted to being a fan of his work in Blade of the Immortal. He thought so highly of the mangaka’s talent that he gave up on creating a samurai manga. If you’re wondering how that makes sense, here’s how the genius of Samura pushed Kishimoto to change his idea.

Masashi Kishimoto shares how Blade of the Immortal surpassed his expectations

Over the years, Masashi Kishimoto has shared the different forms of media that inspired him as an artist.

Anime fans might know Masashi Kishimoto as the author of the legendary Naruto. But not many are aware of his long struggle with serialization prior to his masterpiece. Kishimoto’s first successful manga debut was in 1995, and it was only in 1999 that the Naruto manga began serializing.

These four years in the middle were filled with stress and editor meetings, and at one point, he was even ready to give up on creating a Shonen series. Thankfully, the author came upon the idea of Naruto, which, after tons of development and changes, became the world-renowned series that it is today.

Masashi Kishimoto was ready to leave the Shonen field after two flops Masashi Kishimoto’s first successful one-shot was Karakuri | Credits: Weekly Shonen Jump, Shueisha

Masashi Kishimoto‘s first-ever manga pilot that became successful was Karakuri. It is a one-shot manga that won him an honorary mention in the Hop...

Kurama’s existence made Naruto’s life difficult, but also allowed him to experience many things he wouldn’t have experienced otherwise. However, what if Kurama never existed? Or what if the reason behind Naruto’s ostracisation was Minato? All these possibilities defy the canon narrative, but that’s exactly what Masashi Kishimoto’s original draft looked like.

Almost two years before Naruto began its serialization, a one-shot with the same title was published. This one-shot garnered great attention from fans, but the original form of the story wasn’t ideal for long-term serialization. Hence, it underwent a lot of changes. During an interview, Kishimoto and his editor spoke about the original draft of the manga and how different it was. So, here’s how the manga evolved from its original form.

Masashi Kishimoto and Kosuke Yahagi discuss the original draft of Naruto

Naruto manga was first serialized in 1999, but...

Neon Genesis Evangelion has revealed that it will be celebrating its 30th anniversary with a surprising crossover. The legendarily dark franchise will be having a crossover with Transformers, introducing new Transformers toys themed after Neon Genesis Evangelion's robots.

While both Transformers and Evangelion heavily involve giant robots, that's about as much as the two franchises have in common. Evangelion's mecha are actually giant cybernetic organisms, while Transformers are fully machine and have always been that way. Evangelion's Eva units are also typically piloted by a human, whereas Transformers aren't. To say that the crossover is a surprise would be an understatement, yet there are undoubtedly a good number of fans out there for whom this is absolutely a dream collaboration.

Evangelion's Transformers Collaboration to Be Revealed Soon Evangelion's Transformers Will Appear at The 63rd Shizuoka Hobby Show

According to a report from the Japanese site Dengeki, the collaboration between...

Power systems are an integral part of most battle shonen series. A good power system makes the fights interesting and something to look forward to. I’d say Tite Kubo has succeeded in doing that with Bleach. The power system of Bleach is well-organized. There are different groups with their unique sets of powers.

Another thing that stands out is how the powers and abilities in Bleach complement the characters. With how the characters and powers are dependent on one another, things remain fresh and unique to a great extent. Byakuya’s Senbonzakura is a great example of that, and here’s how!

Senbonzakura Kageyoshi: Bleach’s simple yet impactful ability

One of the best examples of simple yet effective abilities is Byakuya’s Senbonzakura. His blade turns into small petals. Now that’s an extremely simple concept, instead of one long blade, you have thousands of small blades. These...

Shonen anime involves many edgy and dark characters with traumatic pasts that make them that way. Sasuke Uchiha might be the president of that club, with how moody and bloodthirsty he can get. He was always the character hungry for revenge and fairly arrogant in a fight in Naruto.

So when Boruto was released and showed the main characters raising their own children, none of us expected him to be the complete opposite with his daughter, Sarada. Sasuke went from being brooding and violent to a loving father, calling her cute and embarrassing nicknames.

It’s quite the jarring transformation for the Sasuke Uchiha we knew in Naruto. The sequel, Boruto, doesn’t do a great job of handling other characters’ development arcs, and some might argue it has butchered a few. Sasuke’s softer side, however, was a pleasant surprise to us all. It gives him a lot more nuance and humanity.

It was pretty noticeable that almost everyone around Orochimaru got slapped with one of his cursed marks, even those who weren’t prime candidates to host his body. Take the Sound 4, for instance. They weren’t exactly the strongest bunch, but they still got marked.

So, it always felt natural to me. Even though he was cursing them to death, it was also a power boost to a certain extent, right? But I’ve never understood how he could miss Kabuto? As Orochimaru’s right-hand man, I thought he would be the first in line to get a Cursed Mark like everyone else. So, what did go wrong?

Orochimaru’s reason for not giving Kabuto the Cursed Mark might actually make sense

It’s been ages since I kept searching for logical explanations, whether it was because of the characters’ powers, motives, or maybe the overall plot, but nothing seemed to fit perfectly.

Black Clover‘s animation has seen both good and bad days. Fans of the series know that while the beginning episodes did not fully deliver on the animation front, the anime later developed to look visually stunning. But there is one anticipated battle that did not do the plot justice.

Episode 63 of the anime had plenty of issues, the biggest one being its experimental tendency. But a rushed production and lack of resources made the blunder even worse. From the effects to the pacing, everything seemed to require improvement.

Black Clover‘s worst animated fight disappointed too many fans

Everyone has different standards when it comes to animation. Black Clover has delivered some really good fight sequences like Yami vs. Dante, Julius vs. Patri, Asta, and Yuno vs. Licht are some of the top-tier fights. But there is one more battle that fans had been anticipating for the longest time,...

If you have to pull one anime villain as a representation of all ultimate villains, it probably has to be the great Sōsuke Aizen from Bleach. His suave tone in his voice, his mind-blowing “Zanpakutō” that messes with your head, and his devious plans to dethrone the “Soul King” make Aizen downright relentless.

From brains, charm, to his insane power, Aizen has got pretty much everything that drives fans simply mad for anything he does. And who knows the Soul Society better than Aizen? The way he played and deceived his comrades was wicked, but it blew our minds.

But hold up, he has got some tough competition out there in the anime community. Other anime villains are comparable to Aizen, considering they all have these ridiculous abilities that might just shake Aizen’s ‘badass villain’ throne. So, here are the 5 villains that might be able to give Aizena a...

The Ichiraku Ramen shop has always held a special place in the hearts of Naruto fans. It is not only Naruto’s favorite eatery, but also the place where he took Hinata for their first date. The shop holds so many memories of generations of shinobis, including Naruto’s deceased mother and father.

The restaurant was honored in the 34th ending theme of Naruto: Shippuden. The ending theme was featured on episodes 418 to 431, accompanied by the song Rainbow’s Sky by Flow. But there is one spectacular detail in the ending song that many might have missed, which fans are realizing years after the series stopped airing.

A wild Ichiraku Ramen shop detail in Naruto: Shippuden has stolen the attention of fans

The 34th ending sequence of Naruto: Shippuden focuses on the story of the Ichiraku Ramen shop and includes plenty of main characters. The video begins with the moment...

The premiere date of Kaiju No.8 Season 2 is closer than ever, which means that fans are more than ready to get hyped up with any new information that gets released. This week, Anime TV underscored that the hit anime series is returning for Season 2 this July and did it with a new image that has already sparked speculation. A specific release date for the new season is yet to be announced.

The image suggests a change of pace for Kaiju No. 8. The show is usually frantic, but the image depicts a quiet moment. It shows protagonist Kafka Hibino (voiced by Masaya Fukunishi in the original Japanese and by Nazeeh Tarsha in the English dub) enjoying a snack while crouching down at a pier with the wind blowing by several fish-shaped balloons. Will the new season give Kafka some breathing room or is it just one rare moment that gets...

As hard as it is to believe, Dragon Ball is already 40 years old. Little by little, the franchise is rolling out celebrations for its landmark anniversary. One of the biggest ones, however, was announced this week via the Dragon Ball official website. The manga series that started it all is being re-released in a 42-volume box, and every issue comes with two covers: the original one drawn by franchise creator Akira Toriyama and a second one illustrated by a new artist. The massive box is already available for preorder, and the intended release date is February 4, 2026.

The special edition will come in four separate boxes that can be lined up in order to form one big illustration that has the title Dragon Ball mixed with some of the most popular characters in the franchise. The celebratory boxes will also come with eight original dividers and a double-sided 42-card set featuring...

We keep hearing how the original Naruto had such good arcs and whatnot. Well, Shippuden isn’t too far behind, and for me, the Pain Assault Arc is one such example of that. Be it fights, development, and stakes, it was all about the impact.

The build-up is what makes it so good. Up until now, we saw the knucklehead hone his strength, but the arc screamed showtime in every sense. It had some overwhelming moments that had us all glued to our chairs. However, there’s one thing I’m glad that the series didn’t follow.

To give context, this has something to do with the Avengers: Endgame‘s cringeworthy moment. The whole “girls get it done” was something the anime thwarted and I’m happy they didn’t follow in Marvel’s footsteps. Though the Arc highlighted the real Mvp who deserves all the praise. But who is it exactly?...

If you’ve ever watched Fairy Tail, you already know that the show loves its characters. And by ‘loves,’ we mean it crams in so many that sometimes it feels like you’re watching a fantasy-themed group project gone wrong. Guild members, dragons, spirits, villains, alternate dimension versions of everyone, and of course, Exceeds: the cute little flying cat creatures with wings that have way too much screen time.

But there’s one Exceed who’s been around from the beginning. The face is on all the merch. The winged fish junkie. The blue menace himself: Happy. At first, yeah, he’s adorable. He’s the comic relief. He’s Natsu’s friend. He screams “Aye, sir!” and flies people around. You’re thinking he’s just harmless. But then you keep watching, and watching, and watching and suddenly, you realize: this bro sucks.

The ‘Happy’ problem of Fairy Tail: Too many characters,...

Fairy Tail is a wild ride as it has a close-knit guild amidst intensely epic battles, but let’s look at a part of the show’s charm: the rivalry between Natsu Dragneel and Gray Fullbuster. Natsu is a hotheaded, fire-breathing, punch-first kind of guy, while Gray is the cool-headed ice wizard who takes stock of the situation before acting.

Their moments together in early arcs, like Galuna Island and Phantom Lord, were quite amazing, owing to their lighthearted, tense, and other moments that hint at something bigger.

And the Alvarez Empire arc? We all thought that it would push them to that level we see with the legendary fight between Naruto and Sasuke in Naruto. However, Hiro Mashima played it safe, and honestly, it felt like we could’ve gotten much more from these two.

The big moment that fell flat in Fairy Tail

Fans were kinda stoked for the Alvarez Empire arc.

Bleach has definitely made a name for itself in the ever-congested genre of Shonen with its unique storyline and relatable protagonist. But it also stands out because of a very ordinary yet distinct feature from other popular shows.

Shonen protagonists typically come from broken homes, where most of the time, the fathers are absent. In many cases, the lead is also outright orphaned because this kind of dysfunctional setup creates a compelling blank slate for heroism to develop within the heroes.

However, Ichigo Kurosaki does not really follow this same pattern as much of his life was spent with a full family and later, with a very involved father.

Ichigo’s journey to becoming a hero is a bit different in Bleach

Ichigo Kurosaki grew up with both a father and a mother who loved him, with his mother specifically adoring him. However, due to a Hollow’s attack, he...

In the vibrant world of anime, where characters either sport the same outfit for the entire series or choose to wear gear that emphasizes function over fashion, Tite Kubo’s Bleach stands out as the undisputed king of drip. While One Piece may have an intricate plot, and Naruto has swings and sad music, Bleach has sophisticated fashion.

Whether it’s the sleek Shihakusho the Shinigami sport or the avant-garde casual looks that bless the manga’s covers, Bleach has its contemporaries beat when it comes to fashion, thanks to Kubo’s creative vision and flair for all things fashion.

Bleach’s fashion is a cut above One Piece and Naruto Ishida sporting a black suit in the opening for Bleach Tybw: Cour 2 | Credits: Studio Pierrot

Every anime enthusiast who has watched Bleach has come across at least one of Kubo’s cover arts where the entire cast of characters...

The revelation of Naruto’s parentage put a question mark on the core idea of the series. Up until then, the story was all about hard work. Suddenly, the underdog turned into the chosen one, and his journey lost a part of its meaning. This idea further evolved during the war arc when Naruto was revealed to be the reincarnation of Asura Otsutsuki.

This plotline wouldn’t have bothered me as much if it had been executed in a better way. Consistency isn’t among Naruto’s strongest suits, and I have come to terms with that. However, Hashirama’s existence contradicts this reincarnation plotline, and here’s how.

The inconsistency among the Asura reincarnates

The backstory of the Otsutsuki family was explored during the Fourth Great Ninja War. Hagoromo Otsutsuki had two sons: Indra Otsutsuki and Asura Otsutsuki. While Indra was a prodigy from birth, Asura wasn’t as talented.

Anime is taking over the world, and we’re just all for it. From keeping up with weekly episodes to the crisp streaming binges of today, it is amazing how far this medium has come. However, while we are always excited for the new shows dropping each season, there is a certain something that Dragon Ball, One Piece, and Naruto give us that makes them so much better.

These are not just anime. These are some sort of legends that hooked us as children, through our teenage years, and into adulthood. Even though modern anime like Jujutsu Kaisen and Demon Slayer have soared in popularity, these classic series pull us back with their timeless stories.

They have got this magic that doesn’t need that stellar animation quality, as it is that emotional value that makes us fall in love with those memorable characters and their adventures.

Dragon Ball, One Piece,...

As anime fans, we all have that one show that grows on us as time passes. For me, it’s Naruto, and there are several reasons behind it. The action-packed sequences, emotional moments, and character growth add to its charm and appeal.

Let’s be honest, we all watched the series because of the impact it carried. It was more than an adrenaline rush. This can be said for one of the most top-tier showdowns in the series that featured the worst Hokage. However, that is not all there is to it.

The scene highlighted the series in its utmost glory; the complexities, emotions, and stakes were very much there, but there’s more. It was the foreboding of the events that followed. This proves Masashi Kishimoto’s manga is a prime cut and more than an unconventional ninja story.

Best Naruto fight featuring the worst hokage screamed “impact”

It is cool,...

Studio Pierrot is one of the top-tier animation studios for the Shonen category. They have produced Yu Yu Hakusho and Bleach, but most fans associate them with Naruto. It is one of their finest works when it comes to slick battle choreography. But we all know how they fumbled big time with Sakura’s character.

Useless, annoying, and trash are some of the most overused adjectives when it comes to her character. But why is that? Well, this has to do with Pierrot and their mishandling and misrepresentation of Sakura’s character. They did it on several occasions, and this scene says it all.

They omitted one of the most crucial scenes from the manga, which could have had us rooting for her, and fans would have been more empathetic. Yet, this move triggered and fuelled fans’ hate for her character. This is precisely why it lasted for decades and continues to plague the fandom.