Parents' Guide to Naruto Online

This very simple-to-play MMO holds true to the spirit, graphical style, and setting of the manga, but gamers looking for depth or complexity will be disappointed with this average title. Those who love the series will really connect with the game and will enjoy collecting all the characters in the universe. But newcomers may feel that it's really lacking as a true MMO. Since this game does have a browser-based component, it's very accessible and playable from most platforms. But the downside with this accessibility is that the graphics and visual effects are significantly lower-quality than other comparable games. Naruto Online's combat is turn-based, which makes it strategic and tactical, allowing players to build teams that have complimentary abilities and moves. But the ability to have many features be automated through combat or regular tasks can make it feel like this is a game to watch rather than play. For example, as you follow the storyline, you character is just moved from location to location. Similarly, combat can be dull when you're not actively participating in it.

The challenge of the game lies in collecting items to upgrade your gear to make you stronger so you can take on stronger fights. But the diversity of items needed to power up your ninjas can get confusing, and so can the balance of team position and composition. With very few tutorials to help you along, it takes a willingness to experiment and ask questions. The clutter of the user interface also detracts from the experience, because it's clear that the game is trying to keep you clicking on all the timed daily, weekly, and event-based rewards. Fortunately, when you're actively participating in combat, the interface simplifies and is much more enjoyable. Overall, there are some good parts of Naruto Online, such as the well-written story and cut scenes that feel like they come from the manga or TV show, but there are enough flaws with the game to keep it as solely a game for hard-core Naruto fans only.