Fans often feel that Boruto: Naruto Next Generations doesn’t quite measure up to the original Naruto anime. Unlike the original, which was solely crafted by the acclaimed mangaka Masashi Kishimoto, Boruto had input from Kishimoto but was mainly overseen by his assistants, Ukyo Kodachi and Mikio Ikemoto. Some see this as a passing of the torch to new creators.
Despite this, the recent Two Blue Vortex series has brought attention back to the original Naruto series. Fans often miss the subtle nods to Naruto within Boruto, demonstrating the deep admiration the animators hold for the original series.
Here Are The 8 Times When Boruto Referenced Naruto
1. Boruto’s Opening Songs: A Nostalgic Homage to Naruto’s Legacy
Apart from its captivating narrative and stunning animation, Naruto became renowned for its opening songs, beloved by anime enthusiasts even today. These openings were not only memorable for their catchy tunes but also for their exceptional visual presentation.
In homage to its predecessor, the Boruto series has incorporated similar visual elements into its own opening songs, such as ‘Hajimatteiku Takamatteiku’ and ‘Baku,’ echoing the style of Naruto’s openings. Notably, Boruto’s opening featured the same vocalist as one of Naruto’s most iconic openings, ‘Blue Bird,’ performed by Ikimonogakari. This demonstrates the deep affection and dedication of the animators towards the series.
2. Boruto’s Nod to Nostalgia: The Return of Narutoic Water
In the ending song “My Answer” of Naruto, a drink called Narutoic water was introduced, becoming a fan favorite and gaining popularity among viewers.
This nostalgic drink made a comeback in the Boruto series, where many young shinobi from the Hidden Leaf Village were depicted enjoying it in their daily routines. While perhaps not the most prominent reference, it’s certainly one of the coolest nods to the original series.
3. Boruto’s Homage to Naruto
In early episodes of Boruto, Sarada utilized the Demon Wind Shuriken technique to defeat an opponent. However, the twist was that the Demon Wind Shuriken was actually the protagonist, who transformed into the shuriken to catch the opponent off guard.
This clever reference pays homage to a pivotal moment from the original series when Sasuke employed the Demon Wind Shuriken against Zabuza. Similarly, it was revealed that the shuriken itself was the protagonist in disguise, using the technique to approach Zabuza and launch a surprise attack.
4. Ryuki’s Resemblance to Hidan from Naruto
In episode 110 of Boruto, Ryuki made his debut as a minor antagonist. He worshipped Lord Jashin and brandished a scythe, employing the Body Controlling Manipulating Blood technique. This technique enabled him to harm his adversaries through a doll once a connection was established.
Ryuki’s character draws parallels to Hidan from the original series, an Akatsuki member and devout follower of Lord Jashin. Like Ryuki, Hidan’s technique involved using the opponent’s blood to inflict harm, though he achieved this by injuring himself. Additionally, Hidan possessed immortality, which complemented his technique.
5. Boruto’s Houzuki Castle Arc
Boruto and Mitsuki found themselves falsely labeled as prisoners and detained at Houzuki Castle. However, their true purpose was to uncover the leader of a criminal organization known as the Mujina Bandits.
This storyline pays tribute to a movie from the original series titled “Blood Prison The Movie.” In the film, the protagonist is wrongly accused of murder and attempted assassination, leading to his imprisonment at Hozuki Castle.
6. A Throwback to Naruto’s Teachings on Becoming Hokage
In a moment during the Boruto anime series, Konohamaru shared wisdom with Mitsuki and Sarada, mentioning that there are no shortcuts to becoming a Hokage. This reference harks back to Konohamaru’s early days when he first encountered Naruto, who emphasized the importance of hard work and readiness, asserting that the path to becoming a Hokage requires dedication and effort, not shortcuts.
7. The Perfect Blend of Uchiha Prowess and Haruno Strength
Sarada Uchiha, daughter of Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno, inherits both her father’s Uchiha abilities, such as the Sharingan, and her mother’s formidable strength.
Sakura has always possessed remarkable strength, evident from the moment she was introduced in the series. This strength stems from her unique technique, which enables her to infuse her fists with chakra, significantly enhancing their striking power.
8. Sasuke’s Heroic Intervention
A notable reference in the Boruto series occurs when Sasuke intervenes to save Boruto from Isshiki’s assault, utilizing his Rinnegan to shield the protagonist from harm.
This scene pays homage to an iconic moment from the original series when Team 7 confronted Zabuza and Haku. As Haku unleashed sharp needles towards the protagonist, Sasuke swiftly positioned himself in front, risking his own safety to protect his teammate.
