The Controversy Surrounding the Canon Status of Sasuke Retsuden

When it comes to the vast world of Naruto, the Sasuke Retsuden (Sasuke's Legacy) novels have gained a significant following among fans. However, the question of whether these novels are considered canon within the official Naruto universe remains a subject of debate. This article will delve into the factors that influence this canon status and offer insights for fans.

The Development of Sasuke Retsuden

First, it is essential to understand the initial development of Sasuke Retsuden. The novels were initially published with a cover art created by the same artist, Kishimoto, who is the original creator of Naruto. This initial step, signifying the novel's legitimacy, raised expectations among fans and professionals alike.

Manga and Anime Adaptations

The Sasuke Retsuden novels have not only expanded the story but have also garnered interest for potential adaptations. The manga adaptations, which are based on the novels, feature the same original story by Masashi Kishimoto, indicating the manga is also closely tied to the official narrative. Similarly, the anime adaptations, if ever brought to fruition, would require the approval and involvement of the original creator, Masashi Kishimoto, and Studio Pierrot.

Jun Esaka’s Role and Kishimoto’s Input

At the heart of this discussion is the relationship between Jun Esaka, the author of Sasuke Retsuden, and Masashi Kishimoto. While Kishimoto did not personally write the novels, he has shown his support for the work, particularly in how it portrays the relationship between Sasuke and Sakura. Kishimoto even praised the author's portrayal of their relationship on social media. This affirmation from the original creator gives a strong argument for considering the novels' content as canon.

The Influence of Authorship and Fan Acceptance

While Sasuke Retsuden is not directly written by Masashi Kishimoto, its legitimacy as canon is influenced by the author's proximity to the story and Kishimoto's endorsement. From a fan perspective, the novels have received high praise, with Jun Esaka stating that the novels are ‘way better than Boruto could ever be.’ This is a compelling argument for considering the novels canon, especially among those who value depth and emotional depth in their narrative.

The Future Landscape of Naruto Adaptations

The future of Sasuke Retsuden in terms of potential animation remains uncertain. The production company, Studio Pierrot, has been known for its financial greed, leading them to prioritize more popular storylines and couples, such as those featured in The Last. This has resulted in Sasuke Retsuden thus far not being considered for anime adaptations. The hesitancy to animate the series is a genuine disappointment to fans, but it does not diminish the legitimacy of the novels in the eyes of many.

In conclusion, the debate around whether Sasuke Retsuden is canon is multifaceted. While it may not meet the strictest definition of being 'official' due to the involvement of its author alone, the novels are widely recognized and appreciated by many fans. Their portrayal of the relationship between Sasuke and Sakura, among their other compelling content, makes compelling arguments for its inclusion as canon within the Naruto universe.