10 Movies and Shows Similar to Naruto (2002)

Description: Yu Yu Hakusho, like Naruto, follows a delinquent protagonist, Yusuke Urameshi, who gains supernatural abilities and fights to protect the human world. Both series blend action, humor, and emotional depth, with tournaments and team battles being central to the plot.

Fact: Yu Yu Hakusho was originally intended to be a romance manga. The Dark Tournament arc is one of the most beloved in anime. The series won the Animage Anime Grand Prix prize in 1994 and

Description: Dragon Ball Z is a foundational shonen anime that influenced Naruto, particularly in its portrayal of intense battles and power-ups. Both series feature protagonists who strive to become the strongest and protect their loved ones. The themes of training, rivalry, and heroism are central to both.

Fact: Dragon Ball Z was originally a continuation of Dragon Ball. The 'Z' in the title signifies that the series was meant to be the final chapter. Goku's Super Saiyan transformation is one of the most iconic moments in anime history.

Description: One Piece shares Naruto's shonen roots, focusing on a determined young hero, Monkey D. Luffy, who dreams of becoming the Pirate King. Like Naruto, One Piece explores themes of camaraderie, adventure, and overcoming obstacles. The expansive world-building and diverse cast of characters are also key similarities.

Fact: One Piece is the best-selling manga series of all time. Eiichiro Oda, the creator, initially planned the series to last only five years. The Straw Hat Pirates' jolly roger is one of the most recognizable symbols in anime.

Description: Bleach is similar to Naruto in its shonen genre, featuring a young protagonist, Ichigo Kurosaki, who gains supernatural powers and undergoes intense training to protect his friends and the world. Both series emphasize themes of friendship, perseverance, and personal growth. The action-packed battles and intricate power systems in Bleach mirror those in Naruto.

Fact: Bleach was originally intended to be a one-shot manga. The name 'Bleach' comes from the idea of 'bleaching souls' to purify them. The series has over 700 chapters and 366 episodes.

Description: Fairy Tail mirrors Naruto in its emphasis on a close-knit guild (similar to Naruto's Team 7) and the power of friendship. Both protagonists, Natsu Dragneel and Naruto Uzumaki, are fiery, determined, and fiercely loyal to their friends. The series also features epic battles and a mix of humor and drama.

Fact: Fairy Tail's magic system is based on the idea of 'the power of emotions'. The guild's symbol is one of the most tattooed anime logos. The series has multiple spin-offs and movies.

Description: Hunter x Hunter parallels Naruto in its focus on a young protagonist, Gon Freecss, who embarks on a journey to find his father and become a Hunter. Both series delve into complex power systems (Nen in Hunter x Hunter, Chakra in Naruto) and explore deep psychological and moral dilemmas.

Fact: Hunter x Hunter is known for its detailed and strategic battle systems. The series has been on multiple hiatuses due to the author's health. The Chimera Ant arc is often praised as one of the best story arcs in anime.

Description: Attack on Titan, like Naruto, features a protagonist, Eren Yeager, driven by a desire to protect humanity and avenge his losses. Both series explore dark themes, including war, sacrifice, and the cost of power. The high-stakes battles and emotional depth are key similarities.

Fact: Attack on Titan's creator, Hajime Isayama, was inspired by a nightmare. The series has been praised for its intricate plot twists. The Titans' designs were influenced by drunk people Isayama observed.

Description: My Hero Academia shares Naruto's theme of an underdog protagonist, Izuku Midoriya, who dreams of becoming the greatest hero despite starting with no powers. Both series highlight the importance of hard work, mentorship, and the bonds between classmates. The school setting and hero/villain dynamics are also similar.

Fact: My Hero Academia was inspired by Western superhero comics. The series has a spin-off manga, 'My Hero Academia: Vigilantes'. All Might's catchphrase, 'Plus Ultra', is derived from the Latin motto of Spain.

Description: Boruto is a direct sequel to Naruto, focusing on the next generation of ninjas, including Naruto's son, Boruto. The series continues the themes of legacy, growth, and the challenges of living up to expectations. The ninja world and chakra-based battles remain central.

Fact: Boruto's character design was inspired by modern youth fashion. The series explores more technological advancements in the ninja world. Boruto's Jougan eye is a new dojutsu not seen in Naruto.

Description: Black Clover is often compared to Naruto due to its protagonist, Asta, who, like Naruto, starts with no powers but dreams of becoming the Wizard King. Both series focus on perseverance, rivalry, and the importance of never giving up. The magical world and squad-based structure are also similar.

Fact: Black Clover's manga was initially rejected multiple times. Asta's voice actor, Gakuto Kajiwara, was a newcomer when cast. The series has over 170 episodes.