Is Sasuke Retsuden Canon to the Narutoverse? An Exploration

This is due to the fact that, unlike the original manga, it explored the couple’s relationship in depth and provided answers to some of the crucial questions that had been concerning fans since the reveal of Sasuke and Sakura’s marriage.

Despite the enjoyment that the fandom found in the novel, there have been doubts raised about its connection to the Narutoverse. Fans frequently question whether the Sasuke Retsuden story is considered canon or not. Luckily for them, the light novel is indeed part of the official Narutoverse canon.

How does Sasuke Retsuden fit into the Narutoverse canon?

Initially, to the surprise of fans, the Sasuke Retsuden light novel was not deemed a canon story. This was made clear through the author’s remarks on X (formerly Twitter) during the novel’s debut.

The fact that the original Naruto manga was the only canon work had been explained to them. However, due to the series being a masterpiece, it had given rise to numerous spin-off works, including the Sasuke Retsuden light novel. Therefore, while they were certain that fans would have many opinions on it, they encouraged them to continue enjoying the world of Naruto in their own personal way.

Sasuke Uchiha as seen in the manga (Image via Shueisha)

Years after its initial release, this light novel series was adapted into a manga (Naruto: Sasuke’s Story—The Uchiha and the Heavenly Stardust: The Manga) by Shingo Kimura. The first chapter was published in October 2022 and was followed by nine more chapters, with three of them being released in parts. In total, there were 13 chapters released.

The manga was also adapted into an anime by Studio Pierrot, as a part of the Boruto: Naruto Next Generations anime in 2023. A total of five episodes were released as part of the story.

Sasuke as seen in the adaptation's announcement visual (Image via Studio Pierrot) — Sasuke as seen in the adaptation’s announcement visual (Image via Studio Pierrot)

This plotline served as a flashback for Sasuke Uchiha in the anime, as he traveled through various countries in search of information about Code’s whereabouts or intentions.

Fans who are interested in watching the anime version of the Sasuke Retsuden storyline can do so by tuning in to episodes 282 to 286 of the Boruto: Naruto Next Generations anime.

What is the focus of Sasuke Retsuden?

Sakura and Sasuke as seen in the Boruto anime (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Sasuke Retsuden tells the story of Sasuke Uchiha’s journey to a land known as Redaku in search of a cure for Naruto Uzumaki’s chakra illness. Due to years of exposure to Kurama’s chakra, Naruto had fallen ill. Upon learning that the Sage of Six Paths had also visited this country and been healed of his illness, Sasuke set out to the same location.

Although the premise of the story was centered around Sasuke and Sakura’s marriage, the novel mainly delved into Sasuke’s doubts about their relationship. Due to the nature of his missions, he was frequently away from home, leaving Sakura alone. As a result, Sasuke desired to have a more traditional marriage and presented Sakura with an engagement ring as a symbol of their love.

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