To celebrate the Marth 27 release of the final DVD in the Basilisk: The Ninja Scrolls series, I decided to do a write-up about the ninja genre as a whole so readers can find more things to watch while they wait for the next great ninja anime to be released.

In the glamorized world of feudal Japan, the ninja (ever shrouded in mystery) stands in stark contrast to the dogmatic samurai. Unencumbered by the samurai’s strict bushido (way of the warrior) code, the ninja, with their assassin-like ways and weaponry, always make far more interesting characters. Poetic license being what it is, ninjas and their likenesses are often cast in a wide variety of roles in anime series. I’ve separated ninja-based series into two key groups: traditional ninja roles and fantasy-based rolls.

The traditional role of a ninja is that of a feudal-era assassin/killing machine. As can be expected, these types of ninja flicks come fully loaded with Kill Bill-esque violence. Adding to the violent-themed fray is the fact that anime ninjas are almost always granted superhuman powers or mystical techniques that enable them to kill with style. Classic anime examples of this are Ninja Scroll and Ninja Resurrection, both of which are very highly rated by most critical anime fans. Both were released in the ’90s, but they are still very watchable. For a more modern take on this I recommend Basilisk: The Ninja Scrolls, which I’ve definitely enjoyed watching, as it has several great action sequences to go along with a great storyline.

On the total other side of the spectrum are anime series that are not necessarily historically based and often place ninjas or their likenesses in a nontraditional environment or paint them in an entirely different light. These pieces tend to be more children friendly, so for those with kids they definitely offer a less bloody alternative to the previously mentioned pieces. Two options here are Naruto, currently airing on the Cartoon Network, and The Legend of the Mystical Ninja. Naruto deals with a young, aspiring ninja going through the local ninja academy. The Legend of the Mystical Ninja features a video game ninja character who crosses over into our modern world to fight other evil video game characters who have already crossed over. Of the two, Naruto is better suited for ages 13 and up, while younger audiences would likely prefer the Mystical Ninja.

———————

The Smug Dude

Recently Reinstated Anime Otaku & Closet Geek

Any questions? Things you’d like me to talk about? Drop me a note.