What episode is "Despair: A Fractured Heart" in Naruto?
"Despair: A Fractured Heart" is episode 172 of Naruto.
Spoiler-Safe Summary
safe readAnko rescues her team with a giant snake summon and they pursue their enemy, facing challenges that test their skills and resolve. Naruto draws on unique chakra powers to free himself from a trap, fueling the ongoing mission's tension and action.
Full Plot Summary
spoilersAnko rescues the team by summoning a giant snake, which takes the team in its mouth and breaks through the wall. Team Anko quickly pursues the enemy. After encountering Amachi, Naruto is caught in his attack and is able to use the demon fox's chakra to free himself.
Episode FAQ
4 quick answersIs "Despair: A Fractured Heart" canon or filler?
"Despair: A Fractured Heart" is listed as canon in the current AnimeAnchor guide.
What story arc is "Despair: A Fractured Heart" part of?
"Despair: A Fractured Heart" is part of the Five Kage Summit Arc.
Can I read this without spoilers?
Yes. Start with the spoiler-safe summary, then reveal the full plot only when you want the complete episode breakdown.
Series Cast
18Browse the main cast connected to this episode guide.
Kakashi Hatake main 
Naruto Uzumaki main 
Sakura Haruno main 
Sasuke Uchiha main 
Akamaru supporting 
Asuma Sarutobi supporting Choji Akimichi supporting 
Hinata Hyuga supporting 
Ino Yamanaka supporting 
Iruka Umino supporting 
Jiraiya supporting 
Kankuro supporting 
Kiba Inuzuka supporting Kurenai Yuhi supporting Might Guy supporting 
Neji Hyuga supporting 
Rock Lee supporting 
Shikamaru Nara supporting Related Movies
6Franchise movie releases are kept separate from the TV episode spine.
Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow 2004 
Naruto the Movie 2: Legend of the Stone of Gelel 2005 
Naruto the Movie 3: Guardians of the Crescent Moon Kingdom 2006 
Naruto Shippuden the Movie 2007 
Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Bonds 2008 
Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire 2009