Naruto Shippuden Episode 90: Filler or Canon? Can You Skip It?

If you’ve just finished the Akatsuki Suppression arc and suddenly feel the pacing shift, you’re not alone.

Many viewers search:

“Can I skip Naruto Shippuden episode 90?”
“Is episode 90 filler?”

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Episode 90 marks the beginning of a noticeable tonal change in Naruto Shippuden, and understanding its role helps you decide whether to continue or skip ahead.

Let’s break it down clearly and honestly.

Naruto Shippuden Episode 90: Filler or Canon?

Episode Overview

• Episode Number: 90

• Title: A Shinobi’s Determination

• Original Air Date: January 8, 2009

• Arc: Three-Tails Appearance Arc

• Episode Type: 🟡 Mixed Canon / Filler

Quick Verdict

👉 You can skip Episode 90 if you’re watching canon-only.

However, it serves as a transition into the Three-Tails arc, so skipping it may feel slightly abrupt.

Is Naruto Shippuden Episode 90 Filler?

Episode 90 is classified as mixed canon/filler.

This means:

• It contains small elements that loosely connect to the broader Naruto world.

• The majority of the episode sets up the anime-original Three-Tails Appearance Arc (Episodes 91–112).

• It does not adapt significant manga chapters tied to Sasuke, Akatsuki, or future war events.

In practical terms, Episode 90 acts as a bridge into filler territory rather than a core manga adaptation.

Manga Chapters Covered

Episode 90 does not meaningfully adapt a specific manga chapter.

While there are light references to Tailed Beasts lore (which exists in canon), the storyline surrounding the Three-Tails capture mission is anime-original and does not appear in the manga.

If you’re following a strict manga-accurate watch order, Episode 90 is not essential.

What Happens in Episode 90? (Spoiler-Light)

Episode 90 focuses on the shinobi alliance preparing for a mission involving the Three-Tails.

Key developments include:

• Intelligence reports regarding the Three-Tails’ location

• Strategic planning among Konoha ninja

• Introduction of characters who play central roles in the upcoming filler arc

• Establishing tension around the mission’s risks

The tone shifts from high-intensity Akatsuki conflict to slower, mission-based storytelling.

For many viewers, this is where momentum noticeably drops after the emotionally charged arc before it.

The episode feels more procedural and world-focused rather than character-driven.

Why Episode 90 Confuses Viewers

Episode 90 sits in a gray area.

It’s not a dramatic standalone filler like the Mecha Naruto episodes, but it’s also not driving the main plot forward.

Viewers often feel:

• “Is this important?”

• “Did the story just slow down?”

• “Is this still connected to Akatsuki?”

That confusion is exactly why this episode gets searched frequently.

It’s the beginning of a long anime-original storyline that pauses the core narrative.

Where This Episode Fits in the Story

Episode 90 appears between major canon story arcs. If you want to watch Naruto Shippuden without filler, see the complete Naruto Shippuden filler list.

The main storyline continues in the Akatsuki Suppression Arc.

Does Episode 90 Add Anything Valuable?

Let’s analyze it objectively.

World-Building

The episode expands slightly on Tailed Beast lore and shinobi coordination.
If you enjoy broader ninja politics and tactical missions, there’s some value here.

Character Development

Minor moments for supporting characters appear, but nothing transformative happens for Naruto or Sasuke.

Emotional Impact

Low.
It lacks the emotional intensity of major canon arcs.

Long-Term Story Impact

None.
Events from the Three-Tails arc do not influence future canon arcs in meaningful ways.

Should You Skip Episode 90?

Let’s break it down clearly.

Does it affect Sasuke’s storyline?

No.

Does it impact the Akatsuki plot?

Not directly.

Does it influence the Pain arc?

No.

Does it provide meaningful world-building?

A little — mostly around Tailed Beasts lore.

Final Recommendation

✔ Safe to skip if you want tighter pacing.
⚠ Optional if you enjoy world-building and extended team missions.

If you plan to skip the entire Three-Tails arc (91–112), you can also skip Episode 90 without confusion.

Episode Impact Rating

Overall Impact: ★★☆☆☆ (Low)

Where Episode 90 Fits in the Series

• Previous Episodes (72–88): Akatsuki Suppression Arc (Canon)

• Episode 89: Mixed transition

• Episode 90: Start of Three-Tails arc setup

• Episodes 91–112: Full filler arc

If you’re following a canon-only watch order, you can jump from Episode 89 to Episode 113.

Who Should Watch Episode 90?

You might enjoy it if:

• You like seeing more Tailed Beast lore

• You prefer extended team missions

• You’re doing a full completionist watch

• You want every piece of Naruto content

You can skip it if:

• You want to focus on Akatsuki and Sasuke

• You’re following a manga-accurate order

• You’re trying to avoid pacing slowdowns

FAQ: Naruto Shippuden Episode 90

Can I skip Naruto Shippuden episode 90?

Yes. It does not impact the main manga storyline.

Is episode 90 fully filler?

It is mixed, but mostly serves as setup for a filler arc.

Will I miss important character development?

Not for major characters like Naruto, Sasuke, or Akatsuki members.

Is the Three-Tails arc important?

It expands Tailed Beast lore but is not required for understanding future canon arcs.

Final Thoughts

Episode 90 marks the tonal shift into one of Shippuden’s longer filler arcs.

If your goal is:

• Faster pacing

• Focus on Akatsuki

• Clean canon progression

You can safely skip it.

If you enjoy extended ninja missions and world-building, it’s optional but not essential.