Sometimes things come up that make you realize exactly how old you are. The Naruto series turning 20 years old is one of those things. First released in 1999 by Shonen Jump, the series gained popular acclaim in the West after the anime’s release in 2002. The anime ran until 2017, with both Naruto: Shippuden and several movies progressing the series plot, which ended with Naruto becoming Hokage. The original manga ended in 2014, and a sequel all about Naruto’s son, Boruto: Naruto Next Generations was serialized by Shonen Jump in 2016. Boruto struggles with living under the shadow of a father he’s only known as Hokage, with understanding what it means to be a ninja during a time of relative peace, and finding his own way as a person.
Now that we’re all caught up, Viz Media is celebrating Boruto’s dad (and the rest of the original Konoha ninjas) with a 20th-anniversary campaign! Kicking off at New York Comic Con 2019 in October, the campaign promises a year-long celebration filled with panel discussions, pop-ups, exclusive merch tie-ins, video games, and more! Merchandise exclusive to NYCC is an exclusive numbered poster and an official Naruto skateboard deck from streetwear brand Hypland.
Viz Media has done a great job promoting the Naruto series in the past, so there’s no doubt we’ll hear all about the surprises to come soon enough. Looking back, what were your favorite moments in the Naruto series? Best character? Best fight? For fans anticipating an entire year of Naruto, what are you looking forward to most? Exclusive merch? Video games? The possibility of ramen themed pop-up? Let us know on Twitter!
For those unable to make it to New York Comic Con, no worries! J-List has plenty of Naruto related items to tide you over, including this adorable Hinata figure available for pre-order!
Via: Comicbook.com
