Summary
One PieceandNarutoare two of the biggest anime of all time, and together withBleach, they are considered the Big 3. The two are the biggest representatives of the medium, helping it become global and taking it to incredible heights.
Naruto, created by Masashi Kishimoto, andOne Piece, created by Eichiro Oda, started serializing around the same time, withNarutobeginning in 1999 andOne Piecetwo years earlier. They went on to become the biggest manga during their run, and although many incredible series such asHunter X HunterandGintamawere able to compete, it was these two series that were at the top consistently.
The two series are as different as night and day; from the art style, plot type and themes, there were many differences, but the one thing that led to their incredible friendly rivalry was the length. Few series went on as long as they did, and that, coupled with their popularity, made them the subject of comparisons. However,the creators adore each other’s series and are very close friends, helping and supporting each other whenever possible.
One Piece & Naruto Often Reference Each Other
The Creators Are Big Fans Of Each Other’s Manga
There are many hidden and not so subtle references within each series that pay homage to the other. A good example isNaruto’s last chapter, with theNaruto’s Hokage face statue having graffiti of Luffy’s pirate mark. Similarly, episode #769 ofOne Piecesaw Luffy’s crew looking for Raizo on Zou, with the gang being excited about meeting a ninja and describing a character that could clone themselves and summon a toad, a very clear reference toNaruto.
There are other instances where the creators are inspired by the other’s manga, incorporating some of its stuff into their own story. In an interview between the two, Eichiro Oda revealed that he was infatuated with Choji’s ability to expand his body, andhe used that as the basis for Luffy’s Gear 3. Absalom’s invisibility powers were also inspired by a minor Naruto character.
Both Kishimoto and Oda were inspired to become creators because of Akira Toriyama’s Dragon Ball.
Oda & Kishimoto Are More Than Just Rivals
Through Their Creative Journies, the Pair Have Become Fierce Friends
With how popular and long-running both series were, a friendly rivalry was inevitable. However, the two are very close friends.When Eichiro Oda was hospitalized, he mentioned that Kishimoto visited him and helped him. The two are huge fans of each other’s work, and it is not a stretch to say thatNarutoandOne Piecerunning at the same time elevated both to a status that is almost possible to achieve.
Naruto
Cast
Naruto is an action-adventure anime series based on the manga series created by Masashi Kishimoto. The titular Naruto Uzumaki is a fearsome Nine-Tailed Fox Spirit sealed inside him, which once wreaked havoc on his village. Shunned by his community yet determined to earn their respect, Naruto dreams of becoming the greatest ninja, the Hokage. This series follows his journey through the Ninja Academy as he continues to train and grow, hoping to prove himself to his peers- and himself.
