Naruto Shippuden Episode 364 -

: It serves as a major moment for Naruto and Hinata's relationship, culminating in a iconic scene where they stand hand-in-hand against the Ten-Tails. The Ties That Bind | Narutopedia | Fandom

: The episode is widely praised for its "silent" direction during the HQ explosion, using a lack of audio to emphasize the gravity of the loss. Naruto Shippuden Episode 364

: While some fans felt Neji’s death was "rushed" or unnecessary, many critics consider it a "10/10" episode for its animation quality, voice acting (particularly Obito's), and emotional weight. : It serves as a major moment for

: As Naruto begins to spiral into despair, Hinata Hyuga slaps him back to reality. She reminds him that his life is no longer just his own, but is connected to all those who died for him. Reinvigorated, Naruto enters Tailed Beast Mode and begins sharing Kurama’s chakra with the entire Allied Force. Production & Reception : As Naruto begins to spiral into despair,

: Madara and Obito use the Ten-Tails to fire massive Tailed Beast Bombs at distant targets to demoralize the Allied Forces. They successfully target the Allied HQ, killing the strategists Shikaku Nara (Shikamaru's father) and Inoichi Yamanaka (Ino's father). Before the HQ is vaporized, Shikaku and Inoichi use their last moments to transmit a final battle plan and say goodbye to their children.

: During a barrage of wood-style spikes fired by the Ten-Tails, Naruto becomes a primary target. Hinata steps in to shield Naruto, but Neji Hyuga interposes himself, taking the fatal blow for both of them. Neji dies in Naruto's arms, finally understanding his father's choice to die for his comrades and achieving his own "freedom".