Naruto are two great anime series that were never meant to compete with each other. However, since Boruto is a sequel to Naruto, comparisons between the two are inevitable, especially given the high expectations set by the success of the original series. While Boruto has yet to truly sur its predecessor, it has shown significant potential, proving that its chances of doing so are far from impossible. The series has carved out its own identity, offering fresh perspectives and new characters that set it apart from Naruto.

Over the years, Boruto has faced criticism, particularly regarding its pacing and animation, which have led to delays and even a hiatus. Despite this, the series continues to prove its worth, showcasing moments that, in some aspects, even sur Naruto. While it’s often unfairly compared to its predecessor, Boruto has delivered compelling storylines and well-developed characters that have captivated both longtime Naruto fans and newcomers. It may not be flawless, but it has its own way of continually keeping the fans waiting patiently for its return.

10 Boruto’s Flashbacks Are Less Repetitive

The Series' Flashbacks Don’t Feel Unnecessary

One of the ways Boruto improves upon Naruto is its handling of flashbacks. While Naruto featured many beloved characters whose backstories helped shape the story, it often relied too heavily on flashbacks, sometimes repeating the same scenes with only minor additions. For example, the Uchiha clan massacre was shown multiple times, resurfacing whenever new revelations about Itachi, Sasuke, or Obito emerged. Similarly, the story of Rin, Obito, and Kakashi was repeatedly revisited, which, while impactful, sometimes disrupted the pacing of the series.

Boruto, on the other hand, understands the importance of balance when using flashbacks. Even with major characters like Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura still present, the series establishes boundaries, allowing the new generation to take center stage. This approach prevents unnecessary repetition and ensures that flashbacks are used only when they truly add value to the story. As a result, Boruto successfully introduces fresh characters while respecting the legacy of Naruto, creating a sequel that feels both connected to and independent from its predecessor.

9 Filler Episodes Feel More Engaging and Well-Integrated

Filler Episodes Exist, But They Feel More Meaningful

One of the major criticisms Boruto has faced is the inclusion of filler episodes, a recurring issue that Naruto also struggled with throughout its run. Naruto’s fillers were often seen as disruptive, with some being inserted at the most intense points of the story, such as the infamous "Mecha-Naruto" arc appearing during the Fourth Great Ninja War. These episodes, while sometimes entertaining, often felt disconnected from the main plot, frustrating fans who were eager to see the story progress. Because of this, Naruto’s fillers became a widely discussed flaw, with many considering them unnecessary detours from the central narrative.

Boruto, on the other hand, takes a more thoughtful approach to fillers, ensuring they feel more natural and well-integrated into the story. Rather than forcing in unrelated arcs, Boruto’s fillers often serve as quiet moments that explore the daily lives of the characters, adding depth to their personalities and relationships. These episodes contrast the high-stakes conflicts, making the world feel more lived-in while allowing fans to connect with the characters beyond their battles. By handling fillers more carefully, Boruto avoids the jarring interruptions that plagued Naruto, making them feel like meaningful extensions of the story rather than unnecessary distractions.

8 Boruto Focuses on the Otsutsuki Clan’s Mysterious History

The Foundation of the Shinobi World Is No Longer a Mystery

The Otsutsuki Clan was never given enough depth in the Naruto franchise, despite being one of the most powerful and influential forces in the series. For the longest time, it was believed that the true villains of Naruto were Obito Uchiha, Madara Uchiha, and the Akatsuki. However, in the final stretch of the Fourth Great Ninja War, it was revealed that everything had been orchestrated by Black Zetsu to resurrect Kaguya Otsutsuki. While Kaguya’s arrival and backstory were briefly explored, the Naruto series never delved deeper into the origins and true motives of the Otsutsuki, leaving many unanswered questions.

Boruto, however, takes the opportunity to expand on the Otsutsuki Clan, portraying them as a fearsome and calculated force that poses an ongoing threat to the peace Naruto’s generation fought to achieve. Instead of just being a last-minute revelation, the Otsutsuki in Boruto are given more prominence, with like Momoshiki, Kinshiki, and Isshiki actively shaping the story. Their presence not only raises the stakes but also helps to explain their connection to chakra, divine power, and the cycle of destruction they bring to different worlds. By fully exploring the Otsutsuki Clan and their goals, Boruto adds a new layer of depth to the Naruto universe, making them more than just an afterthought in the larger scope of the story.

7 Sasuke Uchiha’s Redemption Arc Reaches a Satisfying Conclusion

He Is Finally Given the Chance to Live Without Hatred

Sasuke Uchiha has always had one of the most complex character arcs in the Naruto series, shifting from a main character to an anti-hero before ultimately redeeming himself. While Naruto gave him a path to redemption, many fans wanted to see more of his life beyond revenge and hatred. Boruto answered this demand by showcasing Sasuke in a new light, no longer burdened by the past but instead embracing his role in protecting the village. As the Shadow Hokage, he operates from the shadows, ensuring the safety of Konoha while also being a dedicated husband to Sakura and a caring father to Sarada.

Sasuke Uchiha becomes a great mentor figure, much like Kakashi and Itachi were to him.

Although Sasuke’s story continues in Boruto, especially as Sarada forges her own path, the series has given his redemption arc a satisfying conclusion. He is no longer the ninja driven by loss and vengeance, but a true protector who plays a significant role in maintaining peace. His interactions with Boruto highlight his growth, as he becomes a mentor figure much like Kakashi and Itachi were to him. With Boruto providing these meaningful moments, Sasuke's legacy is secured, making his journey one of the most fulfilling in the entire franchise.

6 Boruto’s Journey Stands Apart from Naruto’s Early Struggles

Boruto Uzumaki Is a Protagonist of His Own

One of the best things about Boruto as a sequel is that it lets its main character have a journey different from Naruto’s. Even though Boruto looks like his father, his struggles and growth are not the same. Unlike Naruto, who was an outcast searching for recognition, Boruto starts off with everything his father once wanted—a loving family, talent, and respect. Because of this, his story isn’t about proving himself but about understanding the weight of his legacy.

Boruto’s biggest challenge is living in Naruto’s shadow, which makes him see things differently than his father did. Instead of trying to be accepted, he struggles with feeling ignored by Naruto and the pressure of people’s expectations. This difference makes Boruto’s story stand on its own, showing that he isn’t trying to replace Naruto but to create his path. Even if their struggles are not the same, both father and son share the same strong will in their ways.

5 Boruto Features a Stronger Female Protagonist in Sarada

Sarada Has Inherited the Dream of Naruto Uzumaki

Not all female characters in Naruto were well-received, and while much of the criticism was unfair, one of the most debated characters was Sakura Haruno, Sarada’s mother. However, Boruto seems to have learned from past mistakes by giving Sarada Uchiha a more well-rounded and independent character arc. Sarada embodies traits from both her parents, but unlike Sakura in the early Naruto series—whose motivation often stemmed from her feelings for Sasuke—Sarada is driven purely by her own goal: to become Hokage. Her ambition sets her apart and establishes her as a strong protagonist in her own right.

While she deeply ires Naruto Uzumaki, as well as her parents, Sarada understands the importance of forging her own legacy. She isn’t defined by her lineage or by the expectations placed on her as Sasuke and Sakura’s daughter. Instead, she works tirelessly to prove her worth, showing intelligence, strength, and leadership beyond her years. Through Sarada, Boruto offers fans a female protagonist who challenges the male-dominated narrative of Naruto, presenting a character who carves her path in a world that was once ruled by strong men.

4 More Naruto Moments as Hokage Makes His Growth Stand Out

Naruto as the Seventh Hokage Is Always a Great Watch

Naruto, one of the best classic anime, has resonated with a large audience due to Naruto Uzumaki’s compelling story, especially his motivations and dreams. His goal of becoming Hokage has always been central to the series, and fans eagerly watched his journey toward achieving it. While Naruto finally attained this position near the end of the original series, Boruto gives fans more insight into his role as Hokage. This allows the audience to further explore his character and leadership, showing how he balances his duties with his personal life.

In Boruto, he continues his mission of protecting the peace he fought so hard to establish as the now Seventh Hokage. Fans get to see Naruto juggling his responsibilities as Hokage, dealing with complex decisions and the challenges of leadership. They get a glimpse of another form of struggle as a father and leader, highlighting his growth since the original series. This new portrayal of Naruto keeps his spirit alive while giving him new layers of complexity in his role as a leader.

3 Boruto Focuses More on Side Characters and Their Growth

Boruto Knows That Introducing the Side Characters Will Make It Stand Out

In Boruto, fans are introduced to a fresh generation of ninjas, many of whom are the children of the original Naruto characters. While Naruto's story mainly focused on him and Sasuke, Boruto gives more screen time to the new generation, offering a chance to explore their unique abilities and motivations. The spotlight isn’t just on the children of the legendary ninjas; even those from lesser-known families, like Iwabe, get their moment to shine. This shift allows for a deeper exploration of characters who might have been sidelined in the original series.

One of the most exciting aspects of Boruto is how it expands on side characters, giving them more development and making them integral to the story. Characters like Sarada, Mitsuki, and even the new kids from the academy get more attention, showcasing their growth and struggles. This approach allows fans to connect with a broader range of characters, making the world of Boruto feel more expansive. By highlighting the diverse backgrounds and potential of these characters, Boruto ensures that the new generation has just as much depth as the original.

2 Boruto Expands Character Abilities Beyond One Signature Move

It Is No Longer Just the Rasengan or Chidori

In Boruto, the new generation of ninjas is not confined to simply inheriting the signature moves of their predecessors. While Naruto’s Rasengan and Sasuke’s Chidori are ed down, the series makes a point to allow each character to develop their own unique abilities. This shift in focus gives each character more depth, moving beyond the shadow of their parents’ iconic techniques. By expanding their skill sets, Boruto creates a more dynamic and diverse array of abilities that reflect their growth and individuality.

Rather than relying solely on the familiar powers, Boruto introduces new techniques that help to shape the characters' identities in a more personal way. This approach helps distinguish the younger generation from their parents, allowing them to carve out their own legacies. For example, Boruto’s skills with scientific ninja tools and Sarada’s evolving Sharingan abilities emphasize their distinct paths. Ultimately, Boruto succeeds in giving characters more than just their parents’ moves, allowing them to thrive with their strengths.

1 Boruto’s Storyline Isn’t as Tragic as Naruto’s Upbringing

Boruto Has Heartbreaking Moments But It Is Not The Foundation

Boruto shifts away from the tragedy-driven storytelling seen in Naruto. The series focuses more on the present and future of its characters. In Naruto, the motivations of many key characters, like Naruto, Sasuke, and Gaara, are deeply tied to their painful pasts, which often drives them toward vengeance or personal growth. This focus on trauma and loss creates a darker atmosphere, as the characters navigate their emotional scars while pursuing their goals.

Boruto is less tragic but equally compelling.

In contrast, Boruto introduces a new generation of characters in a time of peace, where the struggles aren’t about overcoming past wounds but rather facing new challenges in a more hopeful environment. The pressures of living up to the legacies of their parents and creating their own paths form the core of the story. This shift in focus allows Boruto to present a more optimistic outlook while still exploring personal growth, friendship, and ambition. The story is less tragic but equally compelling, offering fresh dynamics without relying on the darker themes of its predecessor.