What Episode Does Naruto Join the War?
The Fourth Great Ninja War is a significant event in the Naruto anime series, marking a crucial turning point in the storyline. Naruto Uzumaki, the main protagonist, plays a pivotal role in the war, but when does he actually join the battle?
Before the War Begins
Before Naruto joins the war, the series had already introduced the Fourth Great Ninja War, also known as the Five Kage Summit, in episodes 243-246 (season 6, episode 16-19). During this arc, Tobi, a.k.a. Oblivion, and Takt, a.k.a. Deidara, kidnap Pain, the Akatsuki’s second-in-command, and the other four Kage (Lords of the Ninja Council).
The War Erupts
The Fourth Great Ninja War officially begins in episodes 249-252 (season 6, episodes 22-25) when Pain’s attempts to attack Konohagakure (Hidden Leaf Village) escalate. Naruto, Sasuke, and Team Ten-Tails are preparing to leave for the meeting of the Five Kage, but they are late to the summit due to a sudden attack by Pain’s Six Paths Jinchuriki. The team decides to leave the summit and head straight to the battlefield.
Naruto’s Mission
Before joining the main battle, Naruto is tasked by Tsunade to rescue Sai from Töregire Island (episodes 255-256, season 7, episodes 1-2). This mission puts Naruto face-to-face with Sai once again, and he becomes determined to save his teammate. Naruto’s success in completing this mission proves to be a crucial moment before the main war begins.
The Main Battle Unfolds
Naruto officially joins the main battle in episode 258 (season 7, episode 3). The war has started, and the main participants are the Five Kage (the leaders of the five great ninja nations), Akatsuki, and Ten-Tails. Naruto initially focuses on rescuing Kurama, his Nine-Tails Fox mode, which had been extracted from his body. After a brief introduction to the war, Naruto makes his debut in the war by attacking Ten-Tails alongside Ryūbi**, another tailed beast jinchuriki.
Chapters in the War
Here is a brief breakdown of Naruto’s journey through the Fourth Great Ninja War:
- Episodes 249-252 (season 6, episodes 22-25): The war begins.
- Episodes 255-256 (season 7, episodes 1-2): Naruto completes his mission to rescue Sai.
- Episodes 258-275 (season 7, episodes 3-21): Naruto joins the main battle, rescuing Kurama, and engaging in intense combat against Ten-Tails.
Key Milestones
Here are a few key milestones that took place during Naruto’s war journey:
- Battle against Ten-Tails: Naruto and Ryūbi participate in the battle against Ten-Tails, a critical moment in the war. (Episodes 265-270**, season 7, episodes 9-14)
- Battle against Tobi: Naruto confronts and battles Tobi in an intense duel, leading to a turning point in the war. (Episodes 272-274**, season 7, episodes 15-17)
- End of the War: After numerous battles and sacrifices, the war comes to a close with the defeat of Ten-Tails, and Naruto achieves his goal of becoming a hero.
Naruto’s Journey: The End of the War
Naruto’s journey during the Fourth Great Ninja War represents a crucial turning point in the series. He initially starts by completing his personal mission, rescuing Sai, before joining the main battle against Ten-Tails. Naruto’s bravery and determination lead to significant achievements, including the rescue of Kurama and the confrontation with Tobi.
This article aims to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of when Naruto joins the Fourth Great Ninja War, as well as highlighting some of the key events, milestones, and battles that take place during his journey through the war.