Summary
Boruto: Naruto Next Generations, collaboratively written by Ukyō Kodachi and Masashi Kishimoto, is the successor to the belovedNarutosaga, following Boruto Uzumaki. The series offers new foes, disrupting an era of peace, as the protagonist finds his way out from under his father’s shadow while facing threats against the Hidden Leaf Village.
IllustratorMikio Ikemotocarries on the dynamic and eye-catching style while catching his own stride after working as chief assistant to Kishimoto on the original series. Matching the infamous shōnen’s vibe, the bestBorutomanga covers portrayspirited poses, unique character design, and familiar rich coloring associated with the ninja world.
10Snakes in the Garden
Volume 18 “Hindrance”
Volume 18 features Sumire and Amado posed next to Shikamaru Nara, who stands in the center focus with a contemplative expression. The three characters’ vibrant blue clothes stand apart from the warm-toned title at the top of the page. Although this cover is more simply composed, with a minimal peak of background set behind the people, the cover is striking in its cool and almost tense atmosphere.
With both beloved old characters mixed with new ones,this cover portrays the developments made through multiple generations and the wedge being pushed between them by sneaky foes.Shikamaru is a well-respected shinobiand character for fans, and he gets his due flowers with acknowledgment of his intelligence, wit, and leadership in theBorutoseries.
9Konoha’s Shadow
Volume 4 “The Value of a Hidden Ace!!”
The main character Boruto is set in action on Volume 4’s cover, holding his hand up in battle stance with his respected mentor, Sasuke Uchiha, behind him. Uchiha is ever composed, gazing off to the side withboth Sharingan and Rinneganvisible. In contrast, Boruto’s spunky clothes, pose, and facial expression illustrate his feisty nature.
As Boruto’s personal identity is a focal point of the story, it is fitting to see the blonde paired with his father’s dark friend and formal rival. With the Uzumakis facing a strained family dynamic,the protagonist’s affinity for Sasuke’s resilience and resolve becomes an interesting mentor-mentee relationshipthat pushes Boruto forward in the series.
8Combined Strength
Volume 13 “Sacrifice”
Volume 13’s action-packed cover is a snapshot of the ninja world’s infamous art style, as it easily captures perspective and movement for its quick-paced scenes. Each character has their signature color paired with deep black, making their clothes stand out against the background terrain and neutral sky. Ikemoto masterfully encapsulates the vigor of battle, with Boruto, Naruto, and Sasuke surrounding Isshiki Otsutsuki mid-air.
Boruto’s plot expands on the Otsutsuki clan first introduced inNaruto: Shippuden. Despite diverging fan opinions about the antagonists’ lack of uniqueness and elaborate backstory, the illustrator draws readers into a volume filled with spirited fighting and questions about power and intention.
7The Power of Two Generations
Volume 2 “Stupid Old Man!!”
Volume 2 sports Momoshiki Ōtsutsuki’s daunting face looming over the main character and the Hokage, who together lift their forming Rasengans. The characters’ facial expressions are strained and serious, as tensions rise between villains and the Uzumaki duo themselves.
Since being raised in a time of peace, Boruto does not face the same wartime obstacles his father and predecessors did. With this in mind, his main point of tension stems from his father’s absence and his wish to be recognized. Despite Boruto’s perceived differences,he comes to appreciate the similarities and shared strengths between Naruto, making way for emotional growth and collaboration amid a fight.
6Adult Responsibility
Volume 10 is the first and only of theBoruto: Naruto Next Generationsseries to give homage to the original duo on their own. Sasuke and Naruto hold matching stern expressions, with a menacing Jigen reaching out behind them. Overall, the cover art is shrouded in dark hues, highlighted by simple stretches of red, creating an intimidating scene.
As developments between Boruto and other characters become muddled, the audience sees howSasuke and Naruto’s influence and legacybleeds through. Althoughthe spotlight has shifted to younger characters such as their children, it is a treat for fans to see the infamous older pair and their collaborative power on this cover.
5Evolution of ‘Team’
Volume 11 “The New Team Seven”
Volume 11 is bright and vibrant, as Team 7, consisting of Sarada, Boruto, and Mitsuki, lines up with their newest addition, Kawaki. The four youngsters share a similar color palette in their clothing, further drawing their connection. With Boruto’s cheeky expression standing apart from the others, fans can reminisce about other teams previously seen.
As the Uzumaki family takes in Kawaki,his character is cemented in the story and sets the stage for future developments and conflict. This untypical team fits the untypical circumstances, and the audience begins to witness an evolution of the kids’ group efforts, goals, and relationships.
4Broken Child
Volume 7 “Kawaki”
Volume 7 is a striking introductory portrait of a pivotal character, Kawaki. He appears brooding and aloof, side-eyeing readers in his simple blue attire. Compared to other covers in the series, Ikemoto simplifies a few, drawing focus to its only focal point. Matching his detached appearance, readers are clued into this deuteragonist’s personality as they learn of his unfortunate origin.
Naruto holds a unique kinship with Kawaki, as they both hold painful memories attached to childhood.The Hokage Naruto decides to take in Kawaki, giving him a new chance at a brighter future. Although Kawaki’s love for Naruto is twisted later in the series,fans see the true complications of a shinobi’s family and the lengths they go to protect them, even if they must surrender something else to do so.
3Acceptance & Opposition
Volume 16 “Madness”
Boruto and Kawaki stand side-by-side on the cover of volume 16 in blue and red ninja attire. Artistically, Mikio Ikemoto utilizes the opposition of color to mirror characters in the story. This is also seen in its parent series, asthe contrast of dark and light, cool tones and warm tones, becomes easily recognized and thematically associated with differing motivations.
The Uzumaki family has shifted to accommodate another, and with this, Kawaki becomes rooted in Konoha. However, the forces that are against the Hidden Leaf work in the shadows, taking advantage of Kawaki’s new position and feelings. Similar to theNarutoseries, the audience sees how good intentions are misconstrued and misled.
2New Beginnings
Volume 1 “Uzumaki Boruto!!”
Illustrator Ikemoto makes a splash with volume 1’s cover. Starting the series off, bright colors, interesting composition, detailed texture, and unique characters adorn the page. Boruto Uzumaki, Sarada Uchiha, and Mitsuki sit underneath a tree, wearing the infamous forehead protector and holding a kunai. With this,the manga introduces readers to the new Team 7 or ‘Team Konohamaru’.
This exposition artwork is light-hearted compared to others seen later in the saga. Fans can revisit earlier releases to reflect on how Team 7’s perspective and relationships have evolved after seeds of conflict sprouted.
1A Mere Siblings' Quarrel
Volume 20 “Omnipotence”
Volume 20 brings the two Uzumaki brothers’ tension to a peak as they face off against each other. The opposite-colored boys fight in the sky, their karma marks on full display, with purple clouds and broken earth beneath them. This cover is yet another that clues readers into its content and recent confrontations.
Overarching themes of family, loyalty, and sacrifice in the name of protection become apparent through the strenuous Uzumaki family development.The two boys become mirrors of the previous opposing duo, Naruto and Sasuke, furthering the message of sacrifice, forgiveness, and connection.
Boruto: Naruto Next Generations
Boruto: Naruto Next Generations follows Boruto Uzumaki, the son of Seventh Hokage Naruto Uzumaki, as he joins the Ninja Academy amidst changing times for shinobi. As mysterious events unfold, Boruto’s journey begins, establishing a new chapter in the Naruto universe. Released in 2017, the series expands on the ninja legacy.
