At its core, Boruto is a coming-of-age story. Like his father, Boruto is eager to become the strongest ninja in the village, but that doesn’t mean he’s content with following in his father’s footsteps. In fact, Boruto struggles with the expectations that come with being the Hokage’s son. He wants to forge his own path and prove that he is capable of greatness in his own right.
One of the most notable differences between Naruto and Boruto is the state of the village itself. The Hidden Leaf Village is now a thriving metropolis with advanced technology and a new set of challenges for its inhabitants. This allows for fresh storylines that feel distinct from those of the previous series. For example, in the Chunin Exam arc, the exams are now held in a virtual reality world, showcasing the advancements in technology that have taken place since Naruto’s time.
While Boruto has its own set of heroes and villains, the series also introduces new perspectives on old characters. For example, Sasuke Uchiha, Naruto’s rival and friend, has taken on a more paternal role as a mentor to Boruto. His interactions with the new generation of ninjas provides a unique take on his character, showing how he has grown and matured since his days as a rogue ninja.
Boruto also introduces new characters that quickly become fan favorites. Sarada, Sasuke’s daughter, has become a fan favorite for her feisty and determined personality, while Mitsuki, Boruto’s team member, is shrouded in mystery and has a seemingly endless supply of charisma.
While Boruto has received criticism from diehard Naruto fans for being too different from the source material, it’s important to remember that change is necessary to keep a long-running series fresh. Boruto pays homage to its predecessor while carving its own path. The series also explores themes that may resonate with older fans, such as the difficulties of parenthood and reconciling with old enemies.
Boruto stands on its own as a great anime and manga series. It may not be Naruto, but that’s okay – it shouldn’t have to be. Boruto isn’t just about surpassing the previous generation, it’s about carving one’s own path and becoming the best version of oneself.