Is Boruto: Naruto Next Generations the Dragon Ball GT of Naruto?

The comparison of Boruto: Naruto Next Generations to Dragon Ball GT is an interesting one. Both series are continuations of beloved franchises that have faced mixed receptions from fans worldwide. While they share some similarities, they also have significant differences in their approaches and execution.

Similarities: Continuation of Legacy

Continuation of Legacy: Both Boruto: Naruto Next Generations and Dragon Ball GT continue the stories of their predecessors, Naruto and Dragon Ball, but focus on the next generation of characters. This shared legacy helps bridge the gap between original and new fans but can also lead to differing expectations and reactions.

Similarities: Mixed Reception

Mixed Reception: Both series have received criticism from fans who feel they do not live up to the original works. This sentiment is often due to perceived shortcomings in depth, excitement, and overall quality. Some fans see Boruto as lacking the same depth and excitement as Naruto (combining a mix of action, romance, and humor), whereas GT is often viewed as a less favorable continuation of Dragon Ball (focusing on space travel and different kinds of threats).

Similarities: Character Development

Character Development: Both series introduce new characters while also featuring the original characters in supporting roles. This can lead to a sense of nostalgia but also to disappointment if fans feel the new characters don’t resonate as strongly. Boruto introduces a new generation of characters who face their own challenges, growing up and finding their place in the world. Meanwhile, GT presents a reimagined version of the original characters, including a younger version of Goku, which can be jarring for long-time fans.

Differences: Canonical Status

Canonical Status: Boruto is considered canon within the Naruto franchise, created by the original author Masashi Kishimoto and continuing the storyline. In contrast, GT is generally regarded as non-canon since it was produced by Toei Animation without direct involvement from its creator, Akira Toriyama. This difference in canon status can significantly impact how fans perceive the legitimacy and quality of each series.

Differences: Tone and Themes

Tone and Themes: While Boruto explores themes of legacy, identity, and the challenges of living up to a parent's reputation, GT has a more adventurous tone, focusing on space travel and different kinds of threats. Boruto emphasizes personal growth and the struggles of the new generation in a modern, realistic setting, whereas GT delves into the fantastical and epic journeys of the original characters.

Differences: Character Focus

Character Focus: Boruto centers around the next generation and their struggles as they navigate their own paths, encouraged by and sometimes in conflict with their parents. In contrast, GT focuses more on nostalgia for the original characters, with Goku being transformed into a child again, which significantly deviates from the established character dynamics of the original series.

Conclusion

While there are some parallels between Boruto and Dragon Ball GT in terms of their roles as continuations of their respective series and the reactions they receive, the differences in canonical status, thematic focus, and character development set them apart. Ultimately, whether Boruto is considered the Dragon Ball GT of Naruto is a matter of personal opinion and experience. Fans of both series will find much to appreciate and critique, and the ongoing narrative of these beloved properties continues to captivate audiences worldwide.