Prologue Arc
A new generation seeks its path under the shadow of the Seventh Hokage.
The Prologue Arc marks the beginning of the Boruto: Naruto Next Generations anime series, which premiered on TV Tokyo on April 5, 2017. Produced by Pierrot and broadcast weekly, this segment follows the exploits of Boruto Uzumaki, son of the Seventh Hokage, as he navigates life at the Hidden Leaf Village's ninja academy. Directed initially by Masayuki Kōda (who directed episodes 105–281), the series is written by Masaya Honda from episode 67 onwards. Under the story supervision of Ukyō Kodachi until episode 216, this opening phase establishes Boruto and his comrades seeking their own paths in a world shaped by their parents' legendary history.
- Protagonist
- Boruto Uzumaki
- Setting
- Hidden Leaf Village's ninja academy
- Status
- Academy Student
Lore & Background
The series is set in the Hidden Leaf Village during a time of peace, following the exploits of Boruto and his academy comrades. Unlike the war-torn era of their parents, this timeline focuses on original storylines alongside adaptations of source material like 'Boruto: Naruto the Movie' and 'Naruto Shinden'. The narrative explores how children of legends forge identities independent of parental shadows. While the anime adapts specific manga arcs, it also creates unique plot points to flesh out daily life in a modernized ninja village where technology and tradition coexist.
In Their Own Story
Boruto Uzumaki, alongside his peers from the Hidden Leaf Village's ninja academy, begins their journey as they seek their own paths. The anime adapts storylines from 'Naruto: The Seventh Hokage and the Scarlet Spring' while introducing original content to expand on the characters' development. As Boruto grows, he encounters challenges that test his resolve, moving beyond the simple status of being the Hokage's son. The series, which aired every Wednesday at 5:55 PM JST initially before shifting to Thursdays and then Sundays, chronicles these early adventures through a blend of adaptation and original storytelling supervised by Ukyō Kodachi.
Reader's Guide
Viewers can follow the series starting from its premiere on April 5, 2017. The anime aired every Wednesday at 5:55 PM JST until May 3, 2018 (episode 56), when it moved to Thursdays at 7:25 PM JST. On October 7, 2018 (episode 76), the schedule shifted again to Sundays at 5:30 PM JST. The story is supervised by Ukyō Kodachi until episode 216 and written by Masaya Honda from episode 67 onwards. For music enthusiasts, the opening themes include 'Gamushara' by Chico with HoneyWorks (eps 206–230), while ending themes range from 'Who are you?' to 'Bibōroku'. The series is available on DVD and was licensed for streaming by Viz Media.
Did You Know?
- The anime premiered on April 5, 2017, airing every Wednesday at 5:55 PM JST.
- Starting episode 56 (May 3, 2018), the broadcast time moved to Thursdays at 7:25 PM JST.
- Ukyō Kodachi supervised the story until episode 216.
- The opening theme 'Kirarirari' by Kana-Boon covers episodes 256–281.
- Viz Media licensed the series on March 23, 2017, for simulcast streaming on Hulu and Crunchyroll.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Prologue Arc in Boruto?
It serves as the introductory chapter of the anime, launching on April 5, 2017, and focuses on Boruto Uzumaki's early days at the ninja academy. This segment sets the stage for the new generation living under the Seventh Hokage's shadow.
Where does the story take place during this arc?
The narrative primarily unfolds within the Hidden Leaf Village, specifically centering around the training grounds and classrooms of the ninja academy. Boruto navigates his status as an academy student while dealing with peer relationships and family expectations.
Who are the main characters introduced here?
The story follows Boruto Uzumaki alongside classmates like Sarada Uchiha and Mitsuki, establishing their foundational rivalries and friendships. It also highlights the strained dynamic between Boruto and his father, Naruto, due to the Hokage's busy schedule.
How does the Prologue Arc conclude?
The arc ends with the students completing their academy training and preparing to graduate as official genin ninjas. This milestone marks the transition from childhood education to active duty within the village.
Why is this arc important for the series?
It establishes the core themes of legacy and identity that drive the entire Boruto storyline forward. Without this foundation, the subsequent conflicts regarding the Otsutsuki clan and the Kote would lack emotional weight.
More in Story Arcs & Timeline
Elsewhere in the Boruto universe
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