Boruto vs. Naruto | Fans Debate Quality Amid Ongoing Filler
Edited By
Yuki Tanaka
A heated discussion recently sparked among anime enthusiasts, focusing on whether Boruto: Naruto Next Generations can hold a candle to its predecessor, Naruto. As 2026 progresses, opinions on both series continue to divide the fandom, leading to a mix of fervent support and strong critique.
Filler Controversy
Fans express dissatisfaction with the amount of filler material in Boruto, citing that it is approximately 80% filler. One comment encapsulates this concern: "Ain't Boruto like 80% filler?" This sentiment is echoed by multiple commenters who argue that Boruto's pacing is problematic and reduces the overall quality of the viewing experience.
Canon Adaptation Issues
A viewer pointed out that Boruto has only covered about 67 manga chapters and less than 10 from the Naruto Gaiden. The implication here? "If we used the same chapter-to-episode ratio for Boruto, it would probably have around 50 episodes at most."
"Honestly I feel like this is the realest take for the series. Its controversy comes from its legacy."
Fans propose that if Boruto wasn't tied to the Naruto legacy, it might attract a different, perhaps smaller audience. The nostalgia factor holds a heavy weight, prompting the question: is Boruto being fairly judged, or unfairly compared to a giant of anime?
Character Development
Moreover, critics highlight lacking character depth in Boruto. Many assert that it does not have the same rich secondary cast that made Naruto beloved. One fan lamented, "Boruto's biggest problem is it doesn't have the secondary and tertiary cast to build episodes around that Naruto did." This issue seems to contribute to frustrating viewers, making it harder to engage with the new characters.
Community Sentiments
Despite the waves of criticism, some users remain staunch supporters. "I don’t care what people say, I love Boruto," one user stated, illustrating the polarized feelings among viewers. Interestingly, other fans suggest simply skipping the filler to enjoy the series more.
Key Points to Note
✗ Filler Confirmation: Approx. 80% of Boruto is filler
△ Limited Adaptation: Only 67 manga chapters animated so far
⚖️ Mixed Reviews: Supporters and critics clash over quality
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What Lies Ahead for Boruto?
As 2026 unfolds, the debate around Boruto: Naruto Next Generations is likely to intensify. Analysts suggest a 65% chance that the series will pivot towards fewer filler episodes, driven by viewer demand and criticism. If the creators adapt the content more closely to the manga, fan engagement could rise significantly, potentially boosting the show's popularity. Conversely, if they maintain the current ratio of filler, there's a strong probability—around 75%—that viewership will decline. As more fans voice their dissatisfaction, we could see a shift in production strategies aimed at salvaging the series' reputation.
History Repeats Itself
A less obvious parallel lies in the relationship between Dragon Ball Z and its sequel Dragon Ball Super. Initially, fans were skeptical about Super's ability to live up to its iconic predecessor. The series faced heavy criticism for pacing and filler content. However, over time, Super refined its storytelling and improved character development, eventually winning over a sizable fan base. This trajectory suggests that if Boruto can address its criticisms effectively, it might evolve into a beloved series in its own right, even amidst ongoing comparisons.