ADVANCED REVIEW: ‘Boruto: Naruto Next Generations’ Volume 11

Though Boruto: Naruto Next Generations (Boruto) has received mixed reviews from fans since it debuted back in 2016, by the release of volume 11, the series has really begun to come into its own. Boruto Volume 11 is written by Ukyō Kodachi with art by Mikio Ikemoto and is published in English by VIZ Media, with translation by Mari Morimoto and touch-up art and lettering by Snir Aharon.

Volume 11 is an incredibly action-packed volume. Taking place right in the middle of the Kawaki arc, it sees the new and improved Team 7 (featuring Sadara, Mitsuki, Boruto, and Kawaki) taking on Boro. Boro, a member of the deadly organization Kara, guards over a trapped Naruto. With Sasuke out of commission, its up to Team 7 to save the Hokage. Those that may complain that Boruto: Naruto Next Generations doesn’t have enough action will be pleased with Boruto Volume 11. Pretty much the entire volume, which contains chapters 40-43, is the fight between Team 7 and Boro. Luckily for fans, this is the best fight the series has seen yet.

Boro is overwhelmingly powerful, with seemingly unbeatable abilities. Though Team 7 are strong, they’re still incredibly young, meaning they barely stand a chance against Boro. Thus, they have to use some good old-fashioned teamwork and creative thinking to take their enemy down. Seeing Sadara give orders to the team and everyone struggle to work together towards a greater task is exactly what Naruto is all about, making Boruto: Naruto Next Generations finally feel like a worthy successor.

Boruto: Naruto Next Generations is moving away from traditional justsu featured in classic Naruto and focusing more on scientific ninja tools. This leads to some truly interesting characters and abilities, and Boro is no exception. Boro is a fierce enemy and is definitely the strongest enemy that Team 7 has ever had to face without the help of stronger ninja-like Naruto and Sasuke. Watching him adapt to Team 7 throughout the volume is a joy, and he will no doubt be remembered as one of the series’ best antagonists (up to this point, at least).

When the volume begins to near its end, some crazy things happen that I won’t spoil here. The events of chapter 43, along with its last page, are great teases of what is to come next in Boruto: Naruto Next Generations. By the time you reach the volume’s conclusion, there is no way that you won’t be drawn to pick up the next volume. Artist Mikio Ikemoto really shines in this volume, with some amazing action shots. Though I would still say I prefer Masashi Kishimoto’s art from the original Naruto, volumes such as this make it clear that Ikemoto is a worthy successor.

Boruto: Naruto Next Generations Volume 11 is one of the best in the series. It is full of action that fans of Naruto will love, sets up some great teamwork and character moments from the new Team 7, and features a fantastic antagonist in Boro. With its stellar conclusion, fans will no doubt pick up volume 12 and beyond.

Boruto: Naruto Next Generations Volume 11 is available wherever books are sold on May 4, 2021.