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. It was first directed by Hiroyuki Yamashita until episode 66, then by Toshirō Fujii and, from episode 105, Masayuki Kōda; Masaya Honda handled series composition from episode 67. 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.

Quick Facts

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. 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.

Reader's Guide

The series premiered on 5 April 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. Ukyō Kodachi supervised the story until episode 216. 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 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.