Raging debates are common within the fandoms, and Naruto is no exception to that, especially with the OG versus Shippuden series. While both are phenomenal in their unique way, Shippuden is a cut above the rest.
Be it fights or worldbuilding, fans revealed five areas where the anime reigned supreme over the OG series. In all honesty, the fans’ points further prove that the series was in a league of its own.
1. A rich worldbuilding
While OG Naruto introduced hidden villages, Shippuden took it to a whole new level. The first part underlined Kazekage, Hokage, and even Hoshikage, but the second part fleshed it out with its rich and abundant lore.
From Jinchuriki and Akatsuki to external conflicts, the series unpacked worldbuilding brilliantly through these elements, as this Redditor pointed out.
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In addition to that, the arcs highlighted another key detail that makes the series superior to the original one, and that is the diverse methods of fighting.
2. Diverse methods of fighting
One of the common criticisms associated with Shippuden is the excessive focus on Dojutsu. Sharingan and Rinnegan hog the spotlight for the most part, yet the series brings out different fighting methods in the later arcs.
The war arc, in particular, outlined some of the most badass jutsu and fighting techniques. From Tenten’s Bukijutsu to Inoichi Yamanaka’s Mind-Body Disturbance, these jutsu were one-hit wonders.
Not to mention, the Sage Mode raised the bar pretty high compared to the OG series.
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And since we’re talking about raising the bar, the series brilliantly did so with its introduction of powerful and menacing villains.
3. Villains are rather daunting and powerful
There is one thing that Masashi Kishimoto does best, and that is depth, and he rendered it brilliantly through his villains. From Pain to Sasori, the series had some of the well-written antagonists in the series.
Other than that, they had a menacing and daunting aura, which made them a class apart in most ways. Their persona and strength added more depth and gravity to their complex character.
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But the spectrum of villainy wasn’t the only diversity reflected in the series, especially when it comes to the array of side characters.
4. Diverse characters take center stage
From Pakura to Utakata, the series showcased diverse characters and their unique kekkei-genkai abilities. Other than worldbuilding, a hallmark of a great anime is its characters.
It is indeed true that the series abandoned its side characters later on, but it did give them moments of badassery nonetheless. Pakura’s Scorch Release, as well as Granny Chiyo’s fight, was truly marvelous.
From clans and villains to Jinchuriki, the plethora of characters is simply outstanding.
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Speaking of clan techniques, some top-tier fights in the series make it a cut above the rest.
5. Top-tier fights
In true Shonen fashion, Shippuden set the stage for some epic showdowns in the anime. From Guy’s duel with Madara to Sakura’s power-packed battle with Sasori, it screamed iconic in every sense.
This only gets better with side characters getting their deserved spotlight during the war arc.
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Indeed, these elements were later abandoned, yet these are what make it a prime cut as compared to the OG series.
Naruto: Shippuden is available for streaming on Crunchyroll. The manga is available for reading on Shueisha’s Manga Plus app.
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire
