Title: Naruto volume 63

Creator: Masashi Kishimoto

U. S. Distributor: Viz Media

U. S. Release Date: Nov. 5th, 2013

Format: Manga / Paperback / 192 pages

Genre: Shonen, Action, Adventure, Supernatural

Age Rating: T for Teen

Overall Personal Rating: B

Synopsis:

As the ninja war seemingly enters its final chapter, Naruto is determined to stop the mysterious man who started it all, Tobi! With Kakashi and Guy backing him up, Naruto appears to have the upper hand. But Tobi suddenly uses pieces of the Eight and Nine-Tailed beasts to bring the enormous Gedo statue to life to use as a devastating weapon.

With the help of Kakashi and Guy, Naruto seems to have found a way around Tobi’s invincible abilities. But, why do Tobi’s techniques seem to mimic Kakashi’s so closely? And when Tobi’s mask is finally torn off, will the revelation shock the ninja world?

Commentary:

Naruto volume 63 does just about everything except send Naruto off to train some more. We have the big secret reveal of the masked Tobi and the return of the evil villain that just might be Naruto’s greatest foe. But, the one thing it seems to be lacking is much of the soul that the series is known for. Naruto comes across rather un-engaged and even though most of the back story involves Kakashi’s generation it just feel like it is a little half hearted.

I do like the path that the series is on and it looks like finally Naruto just might be able to stand on his own without having to run off and gain a new power or learn that next big powerful technique. I appreciate that a great deal. I also found this volume to be a quick read. I guess that the action was predictable and with so much of it placed as a flash back into Tobi’s life I just found myself somewhat not interested.

Overall Grade: B

Even though I felt as though it fell a little flat the story still provides plenty of Naruto style punch. I guess that maybe this battle just keeps dragging on and on. This is not a big surprise and it will please an awful lot of Naruto fans, but if you are looking for it to move closer to the finally then you will be disappointed. I guess that I am on of those fans that feels like the series is becoming a caricature of itself and I think it is time to put it to rest.

Anyway, Naruto fans prepare yourself to be surprised at the big reveal and also to be treated to another flash back that maybe answers a few questions.