A short original-series episode from the Kaima Capture Mission in which Anko's timely serpent summon rescues her cornered team, the group gives swift chase, and Naruto taps the fox's power to break free of the dangerous scientist Amachi.
Main Characters (6)
Summary
With her squad trapped, Anko turns the tide by calling forth a huge serpent that scoops the team into its mouth and smashes straight through a wall to safety. The group wastes no time giving chase to the fleeing enemy. When they catch up to Amachi, Naruto is snared by one of his strikes and manages to draw on the Nine-Tails' chakra to tear himself loose.
Key Events
Anko's summoned snake provides the escape route that pulls her team out of the enemy stronghold. The pursuit leads to a confrontation with Amachi, whose attack catches Naruto directly. Rather than being held, Naruto channels the borrowed fox chakra to free himself and keep the fight alive.
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Notes
The installment is episode 172 of the original Naruto anime and belongs to the anime-original Kaima Capture Mission storyline. It first aired in Japan on February 15, 2006, and in English on June 7, 2008. The opening theme is Wind and Waves Satellite and the closing theme is Parade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens in "Despair: A Fractured Heart"?
In "Despair: A Fractured Heart", Anko's summoned serpent rescues her cornered team, the group gives chase to the fleeing enemy, and Naruto taps into the Nine-Tails' chakra to break free of the scientist Amachi.
Who is Amachi in this episode?
Amachi is the dangerous scientist that Anko's team confronts in "Despair: A Fractured Heart" after escaping his stronghold; his attack catches Naruto directly during the pursuit.
How does Naruto escape Amachi's attack?
When one of Amachi's strikes snares him, Naruto channels the borrowed chakra of the Nine-Tails to tear himself loose and keep the fight going.
What arc does "Despair: A Fractured Heart" belong to?
"Despair: A Fractured Heart" is episode 172 of the original Naruto anime, part of the anime-original Kaima Capture Mission storyline, first airing in Japan on February 15, 2006.
How does Anko rescue her team in this episode?
Anko turns the tide by summoning a huge serpent that scoops her trapped team into its mouth and smashes straight through a wall to safety.
Sources & Information
Looking for more on Despair: A Fractured Heart? The Naruto Wiki on Fandom has a dedicated page with community notes.
View on FandomThis content is original writing by Daddy Jim Headquarters based on the Naruto anime series, manga, and official materials. Episode and chapter references are cited where applicable.
Rights holders
- Created byMasashi Kishimoto
- Published byShueisha
- Animated byStudio Pierrot
All rights belong to their respective owners.
Character and scene imagery on this site is original artwork by Daddy Jim Headquarters, not screenshots or licensed imagery. Official cover art is used on three types of pages for editorial commentary:
- Movie pages: theatrical posters and key visuals, credited to Studio Pierrot and Toho.
- Game pages: official box art for the Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm games, credited to Bandai Namco.
- Manga chapter pages: Jump Comics volume covers, credited to Shueisha and Masashi Kishimoto.
Official resources:
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