Nearly a decade after Naruto Shippuden concluded its acclaimed 500-episode run, the beloved anime franchise has returned with a brand-new animated short as celebrations for its 25th anniversary begin.
The new animation, produced by Studio Pierrot, has been released as part of the PUBG Mobile x Naruto: Shippuden collaboration, which launched on 9 July alongside the game’s Version 4.5 update. The crossover event will continue until 7 September and introduces exclusive in-game weapons, cosmetics, locations and other content inspired by the iconic Shonen Jump series.
The animated short reunites Naruto Uzumaki, Sakura Haruno and Kakashi Hatake as they set out to secure an airdrop. Jiraiya and Lady Tsunade later join the action, while Naruto’s longtime rival, Sasuke Uchiha, also returns for the battle.
According to the developers, the themed mode, titled Naruto: Ninjas Assemble, is one of the most ambitious collaborations in PUBG Mobile’s history. It recreates several memorable locations from the anime, including the Hidden Leaf Village, Hokage Rock, Naruto’s Apartment, the Hokage’s Residence, Ichiraku Ramen Shop and the Aviary.
Players can also explore the Ninja Academy, Hidden Leaf Hospital, the Chunin Exam Finals Arena, the Naka Shrine Secret Room, Naruto’s Inner Mind, the Valley of the End and the Great Naruto Bridge, with each location recreated from the anime.
The animated short offers fans an early taste of the franchise’s upcoming anniversary celebrations. The Naruto series officially marks its 25th anniversary in 2027.
Earlier this year, Japanese broadcaster TV Tokyo confirmed that several anniversary projects are in development. One confirmed project is a collectible trading card game scheduled for release in 2027. Fans also continue to hope that the long-delayed 20th anniversary anime specials will finally be released as part of the celebrations.
In the meantime, the PUBG Mobile collaboration gives fans a new opportunity to revisit the world of Naruto Shippuden while awaiting further anniversary announcements.
