Boruto: Naruto Next Generation is often seen as not measuring up to the original Naruto anime series by many fans. The original series was the debut work of the renowned mangaka Masashi Kishimoto, who dedicated years to its planning and personally handled all the writing and illustrating.
Although Boruto also received input from the original author, it was primarily overseen by Masashi Kishimoto's assistants, Ukyo Kodachi and Mikio Ikemoto. This decision may have been made to transition the series to new creators, considering the high standard set by its predecessor.
The original series, which has recently regained popularity with the Two Blue Vortex series, includes references to the original Naruto series that many fans overlook. These references demonstrate how much the animators valued the Naruto series and paid tribute to it.
Disclaimer: This article may contain the author's personal opinions.
The Blood Prison arc, the opening songs, and 6 other times Naruto was referenced in Boruto
1) The Narutonic water
Shikidai (left) and Sakura (right) as seen in the anime (Image via Studio Pierrot) - 1) The Narutonic water - The Blood Prison arc, the opening songs, and 6 other times Naruto was referenced in Boruto
Shikidai (left) and Sakura (right) as seen in the anime (Image via Studio Pierrot)
The Narutoic water was first seen in the ending song of Naruto called 'My Answer.' This drink quickly gained popularity among fans due to its appearance in the song.
In the Boruto series, the Narutoic water made a comeback. Many young shinobi from the Hidden Leaf Village were shown enjoying this drink in their daily routines. While it may not be the top reference, it remains a cool and memorable element in the series.
2) Opening Songs
Boruto and Kawaki (up) and Naruto and Sasuke (down) (Image via Studio Pierrot) - 2) Opening Songs
The Naruto series, in addition to its captivating story and stunning animation, was also famous for its opening songs. These songs are still beloved by anime fans today. They not only featured catchy vocals but also stunning visuals that were unmatched by any other.
The Boruto series has shown respect to the original series by including familiar visuals in its opening songs. For example, the songs 'Hajimatteiku Takamatteiku' and 'Baku' have visuals similar to those seen in Naruto's openings.
In addition, the opening song 'Baku' was sung by the same artist who performed one of the most beloved anime openings, 'Blue Bird' - Ikimonogakari. This demonstrates the level of care and dedication put into animating the Boruto series.
3) Sasuke protecting the Protagonist
Sasuke and Boruto (up) and Sasuke and Naruto (right) (Image via Studio Pierrot) - 3) Sasuke protecting the Protagonist
One of the memorable moments from the Naruto series is when Sasuke rescued Boruto from Isshiki. In a fierce battle, Sasuke utilized his Rinnegan to shield Boruto by positioning himself in the direct path of the enemy's attacks.
Sakura's Strength
Sakura showcased her strength in a tribute to the classic series where Team 7 faced off against Zabuza and Haku. When Haku launched a fierce attack with her sharp needles, Sasuke bravely stepped in to protect the protagonist.
Sarada (left) and Sakura (right) as seen in the anime (Image via Studio Pierrot) - 4) The strength of Sakura
Sarada (left) and Sakura (right) as seen in the anime (Image via Studio Pierrot)
Sarada Uchiha, the daughter of Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno, inherited her father's Uchiha powers, the Sharingan, as well as her mother's monstrous strength.
From the moment she entered the series, Sakura showcased a remarkable strength that outshines many adults. This is due to her unique technique of infusing chakra into her fists, giving her punches an extra powerful impact.
5) Naruto's quotes
Konohamaru as seen in the anime (Image via Studio Pierrot) - 5) Naruto's quotes
Konohamaru, as shown in the anime, shared some wise words during an episode of Boruto. He mentioned that there are shortcuts to becoming a Hokage, which caught the attention of Mitsuki and Sarada.
The Blood Prison
This scene served as a tribute to the past, showcasing the moment when Konohamaru encountered Naruto for the very first time. Naruto's words of wisdom resonated with Konohamaru as he was reminded that reaching the prestigious title of Hokage requires dedication and perseverance, rather than seeking quick fixes.
Boruto and Mitsuki (left) and Naruto (right) (Image via Studio Pierrot) - 6) The Blood Prison
Boruto and Mitsuki (left) and Naruto (right) (Image via Studio Pierrot)
Boruto and Mitsuki were mistakenly labeled as prisoners and brought to Houzuki Castle. However, their true purpose here is to uncover the mastermind behind a notorious criminal group called the Mujina Bandits.
This situation pays tribute to a film from the previous series called Blood Prison The Movie. In this movie, the main character is falsely accused of murder and assassination attempts, leading to his imprisonment at Hozuki Castle.
7) The worshippers of Lord Jashin
The worshippers of Lord Jashin (Image via Studio Pierrot) - 7) The worshippers of Lord Jashin
Ryuki, introduced in episode 110 of Boruto, was a minor antagonist who worshipped Lord Jashin. He carried a scythe and used a technique called Body Controlling Manipulating Blood. This technique allowed him to harm his enemies through a doll when a connection was made.
The demon wind shuriken
There is a character in the series who mentioned a character from the old series called Hidan. Hidan was part of the Akatsuki and followed Lord Jashin. His fighting style was similar to Ryuki, but he would harm himself to hurt his opponent using their blood. Additionally, he had the ability to regenerate, which worked well with his unique technique.
Sarada (left) and Sasuke (right) as seen in the anime (Image via Studio Pierrot) - 8) The demon wind shuriken
Sarada (left) and Sasuke (right) as seen in the anime (Image via Studio Pierrot)
In the beginning episodes of Boruto, Sarada showcased her skills by using the Demon Wind Shuriken technique to defeat her opponent. However, it was revealed that the shuriken itself was actually the protagonist who had transformed into the weapon to catch the opponent off guard.
This scene serves as a nod to the original series, where Sasuke also utilized the Demon Wind Shuriken in his battle against Zabuza. Similarly, the shuriken was not just a weapon but the protagonist himself transformed, allowing for a strategic advantage in the fight against Zabuza.
Read Also:
10 twists in the manga that nobody saw coming
10 times was a better anime than his father
10 strongest Uchiha clan members, ranked
20 Strongest Hidden Leaf ninjas of all time, ranked
5 strongest Ninja of Hidden Cloud (and 5 who are weak)
Editor's P/S:
The article highlights the subtle and nostalgic references to the original "Naruto" series that are woven into the "Boruto: Naruto Next Generation" anime. These references serve as a testament to the creators' respect for the beloved predecessor and add depth and connection for fans of both series. The article provides specific examples, such as the reappearance of the "Narutoic water" drink, the incorporation of familiar visuals in the opening songs, and the homage to Sasuke's protective instincts towards Boruto.
Overall, the article showcases how "Boruto" pays tribute to its roots while simultaneously carving its own unique path. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining the legacy of a successful franchise while also introducing fresh elements and characters to engage a new generation of viewers. This balanced approach allows both long-time fans and newcomers to appreciate the interconnectedness between the two series and enjoy the continued adventures of the "Naruto" universe.
