Black Cloveris one of the most remarkable anime series produced by Pierrot Studio, alongside other significant anime such asBleachandBoruto. However, the studio’s most noticeable work is none other thanNaruto, a universally loved anime series that served as an entry point into the anime world for a lot of newcomers. Despite being a popular anime series,NarutoandNaruto: Shippudenaren’t perfect, possessing flaws that make them increasingly difficult for new viewers to dive into, let alone select them as an entry point into anime.
The most glaring issue lies in the sheer number of episodes. With over 700 episodes combined, both new and returning viewers might hesitate before committing to such a massive undertaking. While starting a new series often brings excitement,Narutocontains around 40% filler episodes, which can lead many to abandon the show halfway through.
Black Clover Saved Itself From Potential Ruin by Avoiding the Same Path asNaruto
Choosing Not To Continue With Filler Episodes and Taking a Hiatus Was a Wise Decision
The probable cause of why series likeNaruto,Bleach, andBorutohave so much filler stems from Studio Pierrot’s strategy of keeping these series on air even after they caught up to the manga. By adding filler content, the studio could maintain a continuous release schedule. Thankfully, Studio Pierrot didn’t make this similar mistake withBlack Clover, and considering how it doesn’thave the same impact asNaruto, it was wise to halt the anime before it was bogged down by filler.
Black Cloverenjoyed a successful run from 2017 to 2021, delivering a total of 170 episodes. With the anime adapting about a chapter and a half per episode, it eventually caught up to the manga, sparking concerns among fans that Studio Pierrot might repeat the same mistake they made withNarutoby extending the series with filler or anime-original episodes. Despite this though, Pierrot stopped andfans are still waiting forBlack Cloverseason 5. WhileNarutoremains beloved, it is often criticized for filler content. IfBlack Cloverhad followed suit, its popularity could have taken a significant hit.
ifBlack Cloverhad continued airing weekly with an influx of filler content, it would likely have suffered far more from audience fatigue
Despite its success,Black Cloverhas often been criticized as one of themost “unoriginal” Shōnen series, with detractors claiming it follows the trends set by more iconic works likeNaruto. However, becauseNarutohad such a profound cultural impact, many fans are willing to overlook its flaws, including the large number of filler episodes. In contrast, ifBlack Cloverhad continued airing weekly with an influx of filler content, it would likely have suffered far more from audience fatigue.
15 Best Anime Series Every Black Clover Fan Needs to Watch
For their fantasy setting, magic system, and protagonists who seek to surpass themselves, these animes are a must-watch for every fan of Black Clover.
The pressure to keep the show on air could have driven even its most dedicated fans to abandon it, as unimportant fillers would detract from the core story. Additionally, the overall quality of the anime could have dropped, as was the case with Studio Pierrot’sBoruto. These factors highlight how wise it was for the studio to haltBlack Clover’s serialization once it caught up with the manga, rather than dragging it out with unnecessary content. Therefore,Black Clover’simminent return will have an even greater impactand the anticipation will undoubtedly generate buzz, drawing in both old fans and new viewers alike, welcoming the series in all its honor.
Black Clover
Cast
Black Clover, released in 2017, follows orphans Asta and Yuno who aspire to become the Wizard King in a world where magic is paramount. Despite Asta’s lack of powers, their journey unfolds as they receive their grimoires and embark on individual paths towards their ultimate goal.
