When A Ninja Meets A Shinigami…

People tend to make comparism among animes, one significant example will be the comparism between Naruto and Bleach. Is Naruto better than Bleach or the other way round? This has been a controversial issue since Bleach came out (2 years after Naruto was aired). In anime-related forums, I often see threads that compare these 2 animes. Why is it always the comparism between these 2 animes? Well several reasons gave rise to this phenomenon. First, because both animes are very popular, almost to the same level, thats why people will naturally compare them to actually see which is better. Well, think about it, you won’t actually compare Naruto with Powerpuff girls, will you? Otakus naturally compare animes which have almost the same level of popularity. Secondly, some pretty hardcore Otakus wants to compare these 2 animes and make sure that the anime of their choice wins. This is just to prove that they have better taste when it comes to choosing animes. For some other reasons, you got to figure it out yourself.

Now lets make an analysis on these 2 animes shall we? Starting with Naruto!

Its quite obvious why people are attracted to watching Naruto. Having ninja as characters are not something we see everyday. Besides that, the techniques are what keeps the otakus’ eyeballs stuck on the TV or computer screens. There are many characters and others are eager to see what particular types of techniques they use. Let me list them in point forms. Of course, i shall only put in those factors which are based on majority of the people, not those based on my own point of view.

Reasons why people want to watch Naruto

1. The plot and development of storyline are interesting. This is one important factor that keeps people attracted. An anime without an interesting plot or storyline is not one which is worth watching.
2. Jutsu. An original thing that can be found only in this anime so far. People tend to get curious about what jutsu is going to come out next.
3. Many characters, each with their own style and moves. There are even criminal organisation of ninja like Akatsuki with overwhelming powers, no doubt that the battle between the good and evil are going to be excitng and intriguing!

Of course there are other factors, i myself have other points as well but i’m not putting them down as some people may not agree with it.

Reasons why people hate to watch Naruto

1. Simple question, they are simply not interested ^^.
2. FILLERS! The major “piss-off” factor which stops people from continue watching. The first series is one example. I’ve seen many people giving up watching this series because of these hated fillers.
3. The pace of anime is too slow compared to the manga, otakus rather read manga than to watch the anime.

If i can just add one more point, i would say some of the Naruto songs just suck. Just take the recent opening, “you are my friend” song, as an example. Yes the lyrics are meaningful but the rhythm is totally off.

Ok now lets move on to Bleach~

well sometimes, we just have to look at things from a different perspective…

Getting straight into the point. Shinigami are much more common as compared to ninja, for example, even Death Note has shinigami. But shinigami holding sword is still the first time we are seeing it! We must not forgot Hollows, Arrancars as well as Vizards. Fresh and new things that people have not seen before tend to get more attention. Once again, in point forms

Reasons why people want to watch Bleach

1. As mentioned above, the plot and storyline. From Ichigo’s Shinigami position to Vizard and fighting Arrancars known as Espada, twists and interesting story arcs are just what the otakus wants.
2. Bankai! Just like Naruto, Bleach has its one and only special thing known as Zanpakutou Release. Shinigami and Arrancar releasing their zanpakutou powers and getting stronger, showing off their new strength and ability. Just what most of the Bleach fans wants.
3. Like Naruto, the character matters. In Bleach, not only they have different techniques, they even have different “species” of human like Quincy etc. If all characters in Bleach are just Shinigami, isn’t it boring?

Reasons why people hate to watch Bleach

Basically, they are the same reasons as Naruto. So…whoops…

Both animes are actually enjoyable for me, i think they are almost on the same level in terms of popularity. If i am to choose which is better, i’ll say Naruto is slightly better than Bleach, not taking the fillers in consideration. So, whether Naruto or Bleach is better, it is up to you to decide! With this, i’m signing off~