Naruto vs Pain: What Happens in Naruto Shippuden Episode 163?

If you’re searching for the moment Naruto vs Pain, the episode you’re looking for is Naruto Shippuden Episode 163.

This episode contains one of the most intense battles in the entire series — Naruto vs Pain, a fight that fans still talk about years after it aired.

But what exactly happens in this episode, and why is it so important?

Let’s break it down.

What Happens in Naruto Shippuden Episode 163?

Episode Overview

• Episode Number: 163

• Title: Explode! Sage Mode

• Original Air Date: April 1, 2010

• Arc: Pain’s Assault (Pain Invasion Arc)

• Episode Type: ✅ Manga Canon

Does Naruto Fight Pain in Episode 163?

Yes.

Episode 163 is one of the central episodes of the Naruto vs Pain battle, where Naruto unleashes his Sage Mode power against the leader of the Akatsuki.

By this point in the story:

• Konoha has already been devastated by Pain’s attack.

• Many powerful ninja have been defeated.

• The village is in ruins.

Naruto arrives just in time to confront Pain directly, and the battle escalates rapidly.

This episode shows some of the most explosive moments of the entire fight.

Is Episode 163 Canon?

Yes.

Naruto Shippuden Episode 163 is fully canon and adapts material directly from Masashi Kishimoto’s manga.

The episode primarily adapts events from the Pain arc chapters where Naruto’s Sage Mode battle against Pain reaches a critical stage.

There is no filler storyline inserted here — the events are part of the core Naruto narrative.

If you are following a canon watch order, this episode is absolutely essential.

Why Naruto vs Pain Is One of the Most Important Fights

The Naruto vs Pain battle isn’t just another anime fight.

It represents the culmination of several storylines that have been building for hundreds of episodes.

1. Naruto’s Training Pays Off

After Jiraiya’s death, Naruto trained intensely to master Sage Mode.

Episode 163 shows Naruto fully using that power against a true Akatsuki leader.

For the first time, Naruto is fighting not as a student — but as the village’s protector.

2. The Emotional Stakes Are Huge

The fight is fueled by Naruto’s grief over Jiraiya.

Pain is the man responsible for killing Naruto’s mentor, which adds emotional intensity to every moment of the battle.

This makes the fight far more personal than previous conflicts.

3. Konoha’s Fate Is on the Line

Pain has already destroyed most of the Hidden Leaf Village.

If Naruto loses this battle, the consequences could be catastrophic for the ninja world.

This raises the stakes higher than almost any previous fight in the series.

What Happens in Episode 163? (Spoiler-Light Summary)

Episode 163 continues the escalating clash between Naruto and Pain.

Key highlights include:

• Naruto pushing Sage Mode to its limits

• Pain countering Naruto’s powerful attacks

• Massive destruction across the battlefield

• Naruto demonstrating creative combat tactics

The fight becomes increasingly chaotic as the power of both fighters pushes the limits of the battlefield.

Without revealing every twist, this episode represents the most explosive stage of the Naruto vs Pain battle.

Why Episode 163 Is So Famous

Episode 163 became famous for several reasons.

1. The Animation Style

This episode features extremely exaggerated animation during parts of the fight.

While some fans loved the fluid action, others were surprised by the unusual art style.

Regardless of opinion, it became one of the most discussed animation choices in the entire series.

2. One of Naruto’s Biggest Power Moments

Naruto demonstrates incredible strength and resilience in this episode.

The fight pushes him beyond his normal limits, showcasing how much he has grown since the beginning of the series.

3. The Climax of the Pain Invasion

This episode represents the peak of the Pain Assault arc, where the tension built across dozens of episodes finally explodes into full combat.

For many viewers, this battle is one of the defining moments of Naruto Shippuden.

Can You Skip Episode 163?

No.

Episode 163 is a must-watch episode.

Here’s why.

Does it affect Naruto’s character development?

Yes — significantly.

Does it impact the outcome of the Pain arc?

Yes.

Does it include major battle moments?

Absolutely.

Will you miss critical story developments?

Yes.

Final Recommendation

🔥 Do not skip this episode.

It’s one of the most important episodes in Naruto Shippuden.

Where Episode 163 Fits in the Pain Arc

Here’s how the Pain arc flows around this episode:

• Episodes 152–162: Pain’s invasion and buildup

• Episode 163: Major Naruto vs Pain battle

• Episodes 164–169: Final stages of the arc

Episode 163 sits right in the middle of the arc’s most intense battle sequence.

Episode Impact Rating

Overall Impact: ★★★★★ (Iconic Episode)

Frequently Asked Questions

What episode does Naruto fight Pain?

Naruto begins fighting Pain during the Pain Assault arc, with major battle moments occurring around Episode 163 of Naruto Shippuden.

Is Naruto Shippuden Episode 163 filler?

No. Episode 163 is fully canon.

Is Episode 163 the best Naruto fight?

Many fans consider Naruto vs Pain one of the best fights in Naruto Shippuden.

Why is Episode 163 so controversial?

Some viewers debate the animation style used during parts of the fight, which differs from the show’s usual visual style.

Despite this, the episode remains extremely popular.

Final Thoughts

Naruto Shippuden Episode 163 is more than just another battle episode.

It’s the moment where Naruto proves he has grown strong enough to stand against the leader of the Akatsuki.

The fight combines:

• emotional storytelling

• high-stakes conflict

• spectacular action

For many fans, it represents one of the most unforgettable moments in Naruto Shippuden.

If you’re watching the Pain arc, Episode 163 is absolutely essential.

Arc Placement

The Naruto vs Pain fight takes place during the Pain’s Assault Arc.

If you want to see which Naruto Shippuden episodes are filler, check the complete filler list here.