Chapter 001: Uzumaki Boruto

Creator & Editor: Masashi Kishimoto

Manga: Mikio Ikemoto

Script: Ukyou Kodachi

The first chapter of the new Boruto manga series has arrived. We appear to be presented with a flash-forward of Boruto facing off against someone named Kawaki. Kawaki implies that Naruto has died. He then proclaims that the “age of the ninja is over.” Boruto confirms his status as a ninja and activates his Byakugan. The rest of the 60 paged chapter is mostly the manga form of the movie.

Highlights:

• Naruto’s “confirmed” death
• Boruto use of the Byakugan
• Introduction of the “Ninja Apparatus”
• The Chuunin exams are starting
• Boruto resents his father
• Boruto like’s Sasuke and wants to be his disciple

I think it Boruto is going to be a monthly series so expect 60 pages each time. Boruto’s use of the Byakugan isn’t completely surprising, but I didn’t expect it. However, I believe he probably uses it differently from his mother or sister.

Naruto’s death is surprising and it may be necessary, to give the younger generation more of a stage to stand on. Also, It could be difficult to write a story when many of the most notable characters are still alive. You would have to address where they are and what they are doing. However, I don’t think all the other characters should be killed.

The ninja apparatus is an interesting new tool introduced to the Boruto world. Basically, the apparatus has a jutsu seal within it. Using a jutsu on the tiny scroll seals it. Then you shoot the the scroll through the apparatus. I’m sure this will have a profound effect on the series. The number of characters that can now use jutsu, without training. If this apparatus can be scaled larger it could be devastating.

Finally, the art of Mikio Ikemoto. I am on the fence regarding the art style. Objectionably, Kishimoto’s art is better. The weight of the line’s feel thin, but the characters are more detailed. The art overall can feel rushed, as if drawn too quickly. One eye on a character can appear disproportionate to the other.