‘Naruto’ Volume 72 Finally on Sale, Conclusion Celebration Projects Also Concurrently Underway

After 15 years, the serialization of Naruto concluded in Weekly Shonen Jump (Shueisha) on Nov. 10, 2014. The 72nd volume, which includes the final chapter, was finally released on Feb. 4. Following the serialization, the tankobon volumes have finally come to an end as well.

In the concluding volume, the story begins with Kaguya being successfully sealed and all seems to be over before Sasuke rises up in revolt. Unable to see eye-to-eye, Naruto and Sasuke put everything on the line and battle it out.

The concluding volume includes a story that takes place after their battle, so it’s a must-read for fans. The front cover of the volume shows Naruto from behind wearing a cloak that reads “Seventh Hokage”; it’s an illustration irresistible to fans.

Volume 72 is 216 pages total and costs 400 yen (plus tax). A digital version was released the same day as the print version. This is a convenient option for those who like reading ebooks.

Projects celebrating the conclusion of the manga are also taking place. The first is the art book Naruto Illustration Collection: Uzumaki Naruto which was released on the same day as the manga. The book is A4 size, 114 pages, and includes more than 70 illustrations from among those created after 2009. Author Masashi Kishimoto also introduces through comments his chosen Best 10 illustrations. Also published in the book is a complete interview with major Hollywood movie producer Avi Arad.

Until Feb. 11, the first two volumes (12 total) from the tankobon manga Naruto will be available digitally for free. Four volumes of newly added Official Data Books are also being distributed. The world of Naruto is likely to expand even more if these are enjoyed together.

Although the manga has concluded, Naruto will continue. Since fall 2014, the Naruto New Era Opening Project has been underway. With the huge hit movie The Last: Naruto the Movie released in December 2014, the stage play “Live Spectacular Naruto” performances for which will begin in March, and Masashi Kishimoto Naruto Exhibit to be held beginning in April, projects to keep fans’ interest piqued will continue.

Naruto
© Masashi Kishimoto, Scott / Shueisha Inc.

Source: animeanime