Boruto and Dandadan stand at opposite ends of the scale of reception, with one being hated endlessly while the other is incessantly loved by fans. Both series are worlds apart and have major differences that set them apart. Additionally, Boruto has a longer history with fans through its prequel. While Dandadan has been impressive in most ways possible since its premiere, there’s one aspect it shares in common with Boruto: the fan service.
Yet, it doesn’t get nearly as much hate as Boruto for the same thing. Hating Boruto has almost become an obligation for many fans of the Naruto franchise, and this might be one case when the hate aimed at the sequel seems unnecessary. With how Dandadan is getting praised every passing moment, the difference in reception becomes all the more apparent.
The Difference in Discourse Around Boruto and Dandadan
The initial chapters of Dandadan incorporated a substantial amount of fan service. Fans found it jarring at the beginning but also noticed that the creator is consciously trying to minimize the fan service. Given how there was an active effort to discontinue the problematic aspect, the concerns surrounding the fan service subsided in Dandadan fandom, unlike Boruto.
Mikio Ikemoto has been on the receiving end of harsh criticism for drawing underage characters inappropriate poses. After the post-time-skip designs of Boruto were revealed, Sarada’s outfit sparked concern among fans. Since then, some fans haven’t missed a single chance to point out the flaws in the new character designs.
This X post highlights the similarities between Momo and Sarada’s character design. It instantly makes one think of the stark differences between the reception of the two series. While fans have come to terms with the problematic aspects of Dandadan, there’s no end to the hate directed at Boruto. It brings attention to the possibility that the Boruto Hate isn’t not only never-ending but also unnecessary at times.
The Hate Aimed At Boruto is Sometimes Unnecessary
The primary reason why fans hated the character designs was the difference between the overall aesthetics of the manga and the clothing choices of the characters. The new outfits were loud and bold and defied the cozy and mostly practical outfits in the series. The appearances of the characters didn’t fit the context that was already established by Naruto.
Given Naruto’s track record, its sequel does have some responsibility to honor its legacy. Ikemoto often fails to do that and with these new designs, he is rewriting the mood of the series. While all these reasons are valid criticisms aimed at the mangaka’s creative decision, it’s bizarre how alive this discourse still is compared to what happened with Dandadan.
While the doubts regarding Dandadan have faded, the harsh criticisms aimed at Boruto are as strong as ever. It could be true that Ikemoto doesn’t show any signs of awareness regarding his subject matter, which is something very evident in Yukinobu Tatsu’s writing.
The general hate and disapproval many fans feel towards Boruto seep into this issue as well. And if that isn’t the case, then why does Dandadan not get similar disapproving reactions from fans? It just comes down to the difference in perception of both series in the end, and the curse that Boruto carries as the successor of one of the most successful and acclaimed anime franchises of all time.
Both Boruto and Dandadan are available to read on the MangaPlus app and website.
