Similarities and Differences
The execution of these series’ storylines also differs. Naruto spends more time developing its story and its characters than Bleach does. And while the flashbacks in Naruto can get a bit dragging for some people, especially the ones who watch for the fight scenes alone, they do leave us with more three dimensional characters and a more detailed storyline. When things happen, you know why they do because there’s a background. The progression of the story is logical. Bleach, on the other hand, is one big mash of plot twists that, though entertaining, really are just good for the shock factor.
Humor-wise, both are great. Both can have you clutching your stomach and rolling on the floor in insane laughter. However, Naruto’s humor is somewhat slapstick sometimes as compared to Bleach’s more refined and natural humor. But then, you have to consider that the characters in Naruto are mostly kids and are younger than the characters in Bleach (not considering Shippuden).
The fight scenes in Naruto are way more interesting because it dabbles more in strategy rather than just the simple clashing of swords. However, because there’s much strategy involved in Naruto’s fight scenes, you also get to hear a lot of long and winding explanations in between fights and this is something that the some fans who are in for the action dislike. Bleach’s fight scenes are also great and action-packed but are rather repetitive.
One edge that Bleach does have over Naruto is that its characters get a change of wardrobe every now and then. In Naruto, we see the same costume each and every day. It’s as if the characters have closets- full of the same clothes.