Naruto is one of the most legendary anime-manga series, featuring a wide variety of characters and numerous villages. It is packed with action, plot twists, suspense, and soul-shattering deaths. Masashi Kishimoto has penned multiple arcs, with one of the most legendary arcs being the Chunin Exam arc, which significantly altered the flow of the story.
Despite being one of the strongest and most fan-favorite arcs, we might never have seen it if Masashi Kishimoto’s editors hadn’t forced him to draw it. The author revealed that he was not into the idea of drawing any tournament arcs because it would “kill” him; however, he had to give in to his editor’s persuasion, as they clearly stated to him that he had to do it even if it killed him, resulting in one of the greatest arcs ever.
Masashi Kishimoto never wanted the Chunin exam arc in Naruto
Masashi Kishimoto, the man behind one of the greatest anime and manga series, was about to make a decision that could have altered the path of Naruto forever. In the epilogue of the series, the Chunin exam arc played a crucial role.
The arc introduced several new faces and developed the plot for many years of the series. Often hailed as the best arc in the series and one of the greatest arcs ever written, the Chunin Exam arc is a treat to witness, filled with action, plot twists, and intense battles such as Neji vs Naruto, Gaara vs Rock Lee, and Sasuke vs Gaara.
However, we would never have been able to witness this masterpiece if it weren’t for Kishimoto’s editors. The author seemingly had different plans for the story, preferring to introduce the characters differently and opting for a slower tempo rather than writing a tournament arc.
In an interview, the author revealed that he never intended to include the Chunin exam arc, finding it too stressful and difficult. When he explained that such an arc would be overwhelming, the editors insisted that he had to do it, even if it killed him. As if it weren’t already difficult for Kishimoto, he was forced to introduce Orochimaru as the main antagonist of the story, using him to halt the tournament.
Despite his hesitation, Masashi Kishimoto went ahead and wrote one of the most intriguing and well-crafted arcs ever, which managed to attract a larger audience to the franchise. Looking back at that decision, Masashi Kishimoto surely does not regret drawing it.
Which is the best arc in Naruto?
Masashi Kishimoto has written 49 arcs across Naruto and Naruto: Shippuden, spanning over a decade. The first arc of the story is Land of Waves, on the other hand, the last arc is Konoha Hiden: The Perfect Day for a Wedding. While each arc is pivotal and loved by fans, some arcs are preferred more than others.
Among the most beloved arcs in the series are the Chunin Exam, Sasuke Recovery Mission, Naruto vs. Pain, and numerous others. Choosing the best arc is quite a difficult task and depends on each individual’s preferences.
However, the most common name among the audience would be the War arc, which brought us some of the most unforgettable moments in the story: Madara’s domination over the Kages, Team 7’s power-up, Itachi’s return, and the introduction of god-like beings.
While some audiences were not entirely satisfied with the War arc, it was the best Masashi Kishimoto could do, and overall, it was very satisfactory. Naruto Uzumaki’s journey was worth it, as he transitioned from an adolescent brat to a man who stands atop Konoha.
You can read Naruto on Viz Media and watch the anime on Crunchyroll.
