Word Count

Origins

Main article: Ninshū Ninshū (忍宗, Viz: Ninja Creed, literally meaning: Shinobi Sect) is the religion and the peaceful precursor of modern ninjutsu created by Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki, the first one to understand and teach the mystery of chakra. The teachings of ninshū were meant to give people a better understanding of themselves, as well as others, and lead the world into an era of peace. Ninshū would eventually come to be known as ninjutsu, a more weaponised version of the Sage's teachings.

The Basics

There are three basic types of techniques: ninjutsu, genjutsu and taijutsu. Subcategories exist, including fūinjutsu, juinjutsu and senjutsu. There are also kekkei genkai abilities which aren't techniques, but inherited abilities passed down through certain clans (however, they can be used as base for certain techniques, such as Haku's Demonic Mirroring Ice Crystals). Kekkei genkai can also be attributed to certain parts of the body, such as dōjutsu.

Without proper control of their chakra, a ninja will produce ineffective or weakened technique which will lead to them running out of chakra early in a fight. To manipulate their chakra more easily, hand seals can be used. With these hand seals, users can control their chakra and technique with higher efficiency. Different techniques require different hand seals.

Ranks

Depending on the difficulty or skill necessary to perform a technique, they are ranked differently. There are six different ranks in techniques:

E-rank - Learned by Academy students. Are the basic and most fundamental techniques for all ninja. D-rank - Genin-level techniques. Can be achieved by all genin, though many ninja only learn their "type" of technique. C-rank - Chūnin-level techniques. Sometimes learned by genin who have trained extensively. B-rank - Jōnin-level techniques. Require high levels of chakra to use. A-rank - Kage or jōnin-level techniques. Require great control over one's chakra and may be forbidden. S-rank - Secret, extreme level techniques. Are typically unique to a single user.

Kekkei Genkai and unique abilities normally do not have a rank.

Main Jutsu Types Ninjutsu

Main article: Ninjutsu Ninjutsu (忍術, English TV: Ninja Art, literally meaning: Ninja Techniques) is one of the three main jutsu categories. Ninjutsu is the most nebulous of the three, and may most simply be described as anything that is not genjutsu or taijutsu. Most ninjutsu require chakra and hand seals, but this is not always the case since the mere usage of weaponry qualifies as ninjutsu.

Genjutsu

Main article: Genjutsu Genjutsu (幻術, literally meaning: Illusionary Techniques) is one of the main jutsu categories which uses chakra. Unlike ninjutsu, the effects of genjutsu are not real, being only sensory illusions experienced by those who fall victim to it. According to the Second Mizukage, genjutsu falls under the broad category of Yin Release.[1]

Taijutsu

Main article: Taijutsu Taijutsu (体術, literally meaning: Body Techniques) is a basic form of techniques and refers to any techniques involving the martial arts or the optimisation of natural human abilities. Taijutsu is executed by directly accessing the user's physical and mental energies, relying on the stamina and strength gained through training. It typically does not require chakra, though chakra may be used to enhance its techniques. Taijutsu generally requires no hand seals to perform, occasionally making use of certain stances or poses, and are far quicker to use than ninjutsu or genjutsu. Taijutsu is, simply put, hand-to-hand combat.

Sub Jutsu Types Barrier Ninjutsu

Main article: Barrier Ninjutsu Barrier ninjutsu (結界忍術, Kekkai Ninjutsu, literally meaning: Barrier Ninja Techniques)[2] are techniques that impose an effect upon a defined space.

Bukijutsu

Main article: Bukijutsu A ninja's use of weaponry in combat is known as "bukijutsu" (武器術, literally meaning: Weapon Techniques). All ninja use a weapon at some point in their careers, but not all do so regularly.

Chakra Absorption Techniques

Main article: Chakra Absorption Techniques Chakra absorption techniques (チャクラ吸引術, Chakura Kyūin Jutsu, English TV: Chakra Absorption Jutsu) allow the user to absorb the chakra of another individual - usually an opponent's - and utilise it as if it were their own.

Chakra Flow

Main article: Chakra Flow Chakra Flow (チャクラ流し, Chakura Nagashi) refers to both the flowing of chakra through an object as well as any technique that increases the potency of a weapon by flowing chakra through it. Ordinarily, elemental chakra is used to flow through bladed weapons in order to either, dramatically increase their various pre-existing properties, or to gain additional advantageous effects. Usually, the user must be touching the tool to initiate chakra flow but not always as with the Fire Release: Phoenix Sage Flower Nail Crimson technique, and direct contact with the weapon is not necessary to maintain chakra flow. Similarly, techniques such as Kakuzu's Earth Release: Earth Spear, Rōshi's Lava Release Chakra Mode and the Fourth Raikage's Lightning Release Chakra Mode are used to increase close-quarter combat offence and defence by flowing chakra directly through the user's body. However, whether through an individual's body or weapon, the exact effects observed are entirely dependent upon the respective nature and amount of the chakra used.

Clone Techniques

Main article: Clone Techniques Clone techniques (分身術, Bunshinjutsu) are techniques that create copies of the user or their tools. Though the standard Clone Technique is considered the most basic of ninjutsu, these techniques are highly versatile, often used to distract enemies or fool them into thinking they have landed a hit on the user. Corporeal clones can aid the user in physical combat, and even use techniques independent of the original. There are varying methods of creating clones, some techniques using only chakra while others require some sort of medium to give the clones form and substance. There are also clone techniques that transform another person or animal into a clone of the user, such as the Beast Human Clone, as well as genjutsu which create illusory clones, such as the Mist Servant Technique.[3]

Cooperation Ninjutsu

Main article: Cooperation Ninjutsu Cooperation ninjutsu (連携忍術, Renkei Ninjutsu), called collaboration techniques (コンビ術, Konbijutsu, English TV: collaboration jutsu) in the anime, is the combination of two or more jutsu to create a new jutsu with a strength greater than the sum of its components. This "strength" can be measured in terms of the new jutsu's range or destructive power.

Fūinjutsu

Main article: Fūinjutsu Fūinjutsu (封印術, English TV: Sealing Jutsu, literally meaning: Sealing Techniques) are a type of jutsu that seal objects, living beings, chakra, along with a wide variety of other things within another object. Fūinjutsu can also be used to restrict movement or unseal objects either from within something or someone.

Gelel Techniques

Main article: Gelel Techniques These techniques are produced from those imbued with the Stone of Gelel (ゲレルの石­, Gereru no Ishi) featured only in Naruto the Movie: Legend of the Stone of Gelel. Unlike ninjutsu or any chakra-based jutsu, these abilities do not use chakra but instead the life energy from the Gelel stones. Those who use these stones do not practition in the arts of the shinobi. However, it was also possible to incorporate Gelel energy into ninjutsu.

Hiden

Main article: Hiden Hiden (秘伝, literally meaning: secret tradition) or simply "secret" techniques are passed down from generation to generation in certain regions or clans.

The groups who possess these techniques are usually extremely secretive about them in order to ensure that no one other than the members of the group or clan learns them. As such, they are passed down through oral means instead of being written down or recorded. A few hiden techniques require a special ability or lineage and as such are usually the pride and fame of the clan that possesses them.

Juinjutsu

Main article: Juinjutsu Juinjutsu (呪印術, Viz: Curse Mark Jutsu, literally meaning: Cursed Seal Techniques) are a type of techniques used to bring someone under the control of the user. By applying a seal to the victim's body, the user brings the victim's abilities and actions under their control.

Jujutsu

Main article: Jujutsu Jujutsu (呪術, Viz: Curse Jutsu, literally meaning: Curse Technique) are a type of techniques that harm the enemy by cursing them. They work similar to juinjutsu, however, the user doesn't have to apply a seal on the enemy to curse them.

Kenjutsu

Main article: Kenjutsu Kenjutsu (剣術, literally meaning: Sword Technique) pertains to techniques that entail the use of swords, whether the users be shinobi, or samurai. Kenjutsu can be used in combination with taijutsu, ninjutsu, fūinjutsu, chakra flow and even genjutsu in order to achieve more devastating techniques. It is regarded as a branch of bukijutsu.

Kinjutsu

Main article: Kinjutsu Kinjutsu (禁術, literally meaning: Forbidden Techniques) are techniques that have been banned from being taught or used.

Medical Ninjutsu

Main article: Medical Ninjutsu Medical ninjutsu (医療忍術, Iryō Ninjutsu, literally meaning: Medical Ninja Techniques) is a branch of ninjutsu associated with healing, as well as the manipulation of their own, or another's body, practised by shinobi categorised as "medical-nin". The use of medical ninjutsu requires very advanced chakra control, as well as extensive knowledge[4] on such things as herbs, medicines, the human body and even poisons.

Ninshū

Main article: Ninshū Ninshū (忍宗, Viz: Ninja Creed, literally meaning: Shinobi Sect) is the religion and the peaceful precursor of modern ninjutsu created by Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki, the first one to understand and teach the mystery of chakra. The teachings of ninshū were meant to give people a better understanding of themselves, as well as others, and lead the world into an era of peace. Ninshū would eventually come to be known as ninjutsu, a more weaponised version of the Sage's teachings.

Nintaijutsu

Main article: Nintaijutsu Nintaijutsu (忍体術, literally meaning: Ninja Body Techniques)[5] is a term used to describe the fighting style that incorporates the use of ninjutsu and taijutsu. This fighting style is most prominent in Kumogakure,[5] with the Third[6] and Fourth Raikage being its foremost users. By surrounding themselves in their Lightning Release Chakra Mode, the two's strength, durability, speed, and reflexes are augmented to an exceptional degree.

Regeneration Techniques

Main article: Regeneration Techniques

Reincarnation Ninjutsu

Main article: Reincarnation Ninjutsu Reincarnation ninjutsu (転生忍術, Tensei Ninjutsu, literally meaning: Life Transfer Ninja Techniques" or "Reincarnation Ninja Techniques) are techniques that usually require or accomplish the transfer of life force between people. These techniques are generally classified as kinjutsu because the restoration of one life typically requires the sacrifice of the life of another, or that it violates the laws of nature and morality.

Scientific Ninja Tool Techniques

Main article: Scientific Ninja Tool Techniques These are jutsu [Notes 1] utilising Scientific Ninja Tools (科学忍具, Kagaku Ningu), which are technologically advanced weaponry. Some affiliated with Kara have had microscopic Scientific Ninja Tools integrated into their bodies, allowing them to alter their limbs or prosthetics that allow them to shoot beams of chakra.

Senjutsu

Main article: Senjutsu Senjutsu (仙術, English TV: Sage Jutsu, literally meaning: Sage Techniques) are a specialised field of jutsu that involve the use of natural energy. Senjutsu practitioners, known as sages, learn to draw natural energy inside their bodies, blending it with their own chakra to create senjutsu chakra (仙術チャクラ, senjutsu chakura, English TV: Sage Jutsu Chakra). This chakra adds a new dimension of power to the user's techniques, while also allowing for the use of techniques that would not otherwise be possible.

Shinjutsu

Main article: Shinjutsu Shinjutsu (神術, literally meaning: Divine Techniques) are chakra-based techniques of the highest order, mainly used by members of the Ōtsutsuki clan. These jutsu, which are unlike ninjutsu or senjutsu, require no hand seals to be performed and enable users to bring upon phenomena resembling "the works of gods" (御業, miwaza). Amado considers ninjutsu as attempts at reproducing the effects of shinjutsu.[7]

Shurikenjutsu

Main article: Shurikenjutsu Shurikenjutsu (手裏剣術, literally meaning: concealed hand blade techniques) pertains to techniques that entail the throwing of shuriken, kunai, senbon, or any other number of bladed, hand-held weapons. Shurikenjutsu can be used in combination with taijutsu, ninjutsu, and/or chakra flow in order to create more devastating techniques. Additionally, shurikenjutsu can pertain to techniques used through ninjutsu-made weapons.

Space–Time Ninjutsu

Main article: Space–Time Ninjutsu Space–Time Ninjutsu (時空間忍術, Jikūkan Ninjutsu, English TV: "Teleportation Ninjutsu" or "Transportation Techniques", literally meaning: Space–Time Ninja Techniques)[8] are techniques that allow the users to manipulate the space–time continuum.

Blood Limit Types Kekkei Genkai

Main article: Kekkei Genkai Kekkei genkai (血継限界, literally meaning: Bloodline Limit) are DNA anomalies that allow their wielders to use unique techniques. A kekkei genkai's name describes both the anomaly and the resulting technique. Most kekkei genkai are passed down between generations of a clan, an exception being Hashirama Senju's Wood Release. Likewise, most individuals with kekkei genkai only inherit one kekkei genkai, however this is not always the case.

Kekkei Tōta

Main article: Kekkei Tōta Kekkei tōta (血継淘汰, literally meaning: Bloodline Selection) is an advanced branch of jutsu that is more advanced than the jutsu class of kekkei genkai.[9] The only known example is Dust Release, a combination of three different nature transformations — earth, wind, and fire.

Kekkei Mōra

Main article: Kekkei Mōra Kekkei Mōra (血継網羅, literally meaning: Bloodline Encompassing) is an advanced branch of jutsu unique to Kaguya Ōtsutsuki and her direct bloodline.

Dōjutsu

Main article: Dōjutsu Dōjutsu (瞳術, English TV: Visual Jutsu, literally meaning: Pupil Techniques) are ninja abilities that utilise the eyes, a by-product of specific kekkei genkai or kekkei mōra. The word refers to both the eyes themselves, which have a number of passive abilities, and any jutsu dependent on the eyes to be performed; the former requires little to no chakra to be used, while the latter varies depending on the technique. Dōjutsu can be transplanted into others, though use of the dōjutsu is typically more limited or taxing for those without a genetic predisposition for it.[10]

Trivia Early English volumes of the Naruto series occasionally referred to jutsu under the blanket terms of "spells" and "illusions". In the novels, some jutsu are classified as Tonjutsu (遁術, literally meaning: Escape Techniques).

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Nature Transformation Sign in to edit

All five elemental nature transformations being used.

Nature Transformation (性質変化, Seishitsu Henka, English TV: Change in Chakra Nature) is an advanced form of chakra control that entails the moulding and defining of the nature of one's chakra, altering its properties and characteristics for use in techniques.

Nature transformation is one of two necessary components for creating or modifying a technique, the second component being shape transformation. While nature transformation changes the properties of the chakra, shape transformation changes the actual form and movement, altering its abilities.[1] The release of elemental chakra is typically suffixed with "Release" (遁, Ton, English TV: Style).

Contents 1 Basic Nature Transformations 1.1 Affinity 2 Yin and Yang 3 Combined Nature Transformations 4 Trivia 5 Notes 6 References Basic Nature Transformations

A circular diagram of the different elemental weaknesses. Clockwise from the top: Fire, Wind, Lightning, Earth, and Water. The clockwise direction also shows what particular element is strong against.

The Five Basic Natures (五大基本性質, Godai Kihon Seishitsu) are the five elemental chakra natures, which are the foundation of all elemental ninjutsu.[2] They are so vital to the shinobi lifestyle that each of the Five Great Shinobi Countries is named after one of the five. Each element is naturally weaker than and stronger than another:

Fire (火, Hi) is strong against Wind but weak against Water. Wind (風, Kaze) is strong against Lightning but weak against Fire. Lightning (雷, Kaminari) is strong against Earth but weak against Wind. Earth (土, Tsuchi) is strong against Water but weak against Lightning. Water (水, Mizu) is strong against Fire but weak against Earth.

Basically, if an elemental technique is put against another elemental technique of the same level, but of a stronger nature, then the technique with the superior nature will prevail. However, a technique with a weaker nature can overpower a technique with a stronger nature if the former is of a higher level. For example, fire can overpower a water technique if it is first strengthened by a wind technique.

A similar principle applies in how techniques of the same element interact, which is called counterbalancing. If two techniques of the same nature and the same level are used against each other, they will cancel each other out, as when Lightning Release: False Darkness is deflected with Lightning Cutter. However, if the two techniques have different levels, the higher-level technique will not only prevail but will grow stronger from interaction with the weaker, as when Amaterasu, the highest-level Fire Release technique, grew stronger by absorbing an opposing Fire Release: Great Fireball Technique.[3]

Affinity

The result of Kakashi's chakra in contact with the special paper: it wrinkles.

In general, every person's chakra has an affinity towards one of the five basic nature transformations. Affinity can at times be genetic, or at least common to a particular family; most members of the Uchiha clan have an affinity towards the Fire nature.[2] One's affinity can be identified using pieces of paper made from a special type of tree that is grown and fed with chakra. When this so-called "Chakra Induction Paper" (チャクラ感応紙, Chakura Kannōshi, English TV: Litmus Paper) is exposed to even the slightest hint of chakra, it reacts according to the chakra's latent element:[4]

Fire: the paper will ignite and turn to ash. Wind: the paper will split in two. Lightning: the paper will wrinkle. Earth: the paper will turn to dirt and crumble away. Water: the paper will become wet/damp.

Shinobi have an easier time learning to create and control a chakra nature that matches their affinity, although even then it may take a number of years. Shinobi are not limited to the nature they have an affinity for, and it is in fact common for jōnin to have mastered two natures.[5] However, even if a shinobi learns other chakra natures, it is extraordinarily difficult and rare (under normal circumstances) to use them at the same degree of efficiency and potency as with their own natural affinity.

Although it is technically possible to master all five natures, it is very rare because of how all individuals are naturally less inclined to certain elements, requiring much more training. Konohamaru Sarutobi further reiterates its rarity by noting he's only witnessed two shinobi use all five chakra natures.[6] Shinobi capable of using all five natures include: Hashirama Senju, Tobirama Senju, Hiruzen Sarutobi, Orochimaru, Mū, Kakashi Hatake, and Victor (in the anime); these 7 are the only shinobi known to have done so via normal means. Other methods of acquiring all five natures include:

Possession of the Rinnegan to shorten the learning process.[7] Acquiring the Six Paths Senjutsu and Truth-Seeking Balls.[8][9] Possession of the Bashōsen allows any shinobi the usage of all five natures. Using Earth Grudge Fear to gather hearts with other chakra natures. Tobi using Yamato to bolster its power in its usage of the Wood Release. In the anime, Fūka got them by stealing others' chakra, though due to the accumulated amounts surpassing one body's limits, she had to divide them in various combinations in multiple bodies. In Naruto Shippūden the Movie: The Will of Fire, it was stated one who absorbs five kekkei genkai with the Chimera Technique would gain a mastery over all five natures. In Naruto Shippūden: Dragon Blade Chronicles, Naruto gets the Dragon Blade, which allows him to use all five natures. Yin and Yang

The Yin and Yang chakra of the Nine-Tails.

Aside from the five elemental nature transformations, there are two nature transformations that are the source of all non-elemental techniques, such as the Shadow Imitation Technique, Multi-Size Technique, medical ninjutsu, genjutsu, etc.[10] There is Yin Release (陰遁, Inton), based on the imagination and spiritual energy of a shinobi, and Yang Release (陽遁, Yōton), based on the vitality and physical energy of a shinobi. Together, they are used to perform Yin–Yang Release (陰陽遁, In'yōton, Onmyōton).

The transformation of Yin and Yang has to do with altering the balance between spiritual and physical energy in chakra. As explained by Shikamaru Nara, Tayuya's spirit worms were forms of chakra that mostly consist of spiritual energy, thus they require stability and feed upon the physical energy they lack.[11]

Combined Nature Transformations

Combined nature transformation relationships.

By using two or three basic nature transformations simultaneously, one can create a completely new elemental nature with unique properties that wouldn't exist on its own. However, doing this requires a kekkei genkai or, if three elements are used, a kekkei tōta.[12] In the anime, it is further stated that those with the ability to combine the elemental nature transformations possess an affinity for the chakra natures they must simultaneously use.[13]

In the manga, nine combined nature transformations have been shown:

Ice Release (氷遁, Hyōton) is created by simultaneously combining the Water and Wind natures. Infamously used by the Yuki clan, their kekkei genkai. In Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow, Yukigakure-nin were able to use a different kind of Ice Release by drawing on already-existing ice, snow, and cold. This was not a kekkei genkai, as Kakashi could copy one of these techniques with his Sharingan. Wood Release (木遁, Mokuton) is created by simultaneously combining the Earth and Water natures. Famed as the kekkei genkai of Hashirama Senju, and thus reproduced in those using his cells. Lava Release (熔遁; 溶遁, Yōton) is created by simultaneously combining the Fire and Earth natures. A characteristic of the Four-Tails and its jinchūriki, and a kekkei genkai used by ninja of Kirigakure, Iwagakure, and Kumogakure. Also used by ninja of Amegakure in the anime and Ishigakure in the novels. It is implied that the two ways of writing this nature (熔遁; 溶遁) are pointing out that they are different in some way. Mei Terumī's Lava Release: Melting Apparition Technique and Boro's Lava Release: Planet-Branding Blast, which utilise a strong acidic fluid, are the only Lava Release technique written with 溶. This, along with the fourth databook stating that Mei's Lava Release kekkei genkai can only be used by her, indicates a difference between 溶遁 and 熔遁. Storm Release (嵐遁, Ranton) is created by simultaneously combining the Lightning and Water natures. A kekkei genkai used by Darui and many other unnamed Kumogakure ninja. In Naruto Shippūden the Movie: The Will of Fire, the ability to use Storm Release is stolen by Hiruko from an unnamed shinobi. This version has significant differences from those used elsewhere in the series. Boil Release (沸遁, Futton) is created by simultaneously combining the Water and Fire natures. A characteristic of the Five-Tails and its jinchūriki, and one of the kekkei genkai used by the Fifth Mizukage. Dust Release (塵遁, Jinton) is created by simultaneously combining the Fire, Earth, and Wind natures. A kekkei tōta used by the Second and Third Tsuchikage. Explosion Release (爆遁, Bakuton) is hinted to be made of the Earth[14] and Lightning natures.[Notes 1] A kekkei genkai common to members of Iwagakure's Explosion Corps. Scorch Release (灼遁, Shakuton) is implied to be created by simultaneously combining the Fire and Wind natures. A kekkei genkai only known to be used by Pakura. Magnet Release (磁遁, Jiton) is implied to be created by simultaneously combining the Wind and Earth natures. A characteristic of the One-Tail and its jinchūriki, and one of the kekkei genkai used by ninja of Sunagakure and Kumogakure. In the novels, it is also used by ninja of Ishigakure.

In the anime, novels, and movies, additional advanced nature transformations have been shown:

Used in the anime, Crystal Release (晶遁, Shōton) is suggested to be made of at least the Earth nature. Used by Guren. Used in Gaara Hiden and Naruto Shippūden the Movie: The Will of Fire, Steel Release (鋼遁, Kōton) is a kekkei genkai used by Metoro Konjiki and stolen from an unnamed shinobi by Hiruko. In Naruto Mobile, it is implied to be created by simultaneously combining the Earth and Lightning natures.[15] Used in Akatsuki Hiden: Evil Flowers in Full Bloom, Mud Release (泥遁, Deiton) is a kekkei genkai used by Ameyuki and the only known advanced nature that shares its basic natures (water and earth) with another nature, Wood Release. Used in Naruto Shippūden the Movie: The Will of Fire, Dark Release (冥遁, Meiton) is a kekkei genkai stolen by Hiruko. In Naruto Mobile, it is placed in the center of the nature transformation chart.[15] Used in Naruto Shippūden the Movie: The Will of Fire, Swift Release (迅遁, Jinton) is a kekkei genkai stolen by Hiruko. In Naruto Mobile, it is implied to be created by simultaneously combining the Wind and Lightning natures.[15] Trivia The concept of nature transformation parallels the real-life art, Onmyōdō (陰陽道, literally meaning: The Way of Yin and Yang), which is a mixture of natural sciences and occultism. It largely features Wu Xing and Yin and Yang. In chapter 316, Naruto asks about the nature transformation of Shikamaru's Shadow Imitation Technique and Chōji's Multi-Size Technique, as well as medical ninjutsu and genjutsu. Of those four, only medical ninjutsu have not been specifically connected to either Yin or Yang Release. Techniques such as the Toad Oil Bullet and the Poison Mist mention "converting" or "kneading" chakra into materials or substances, but have never been mentioned to use certain chakra natures. Certain other techniques involved in manipulating substances are also often confused to be chakra natures, such as silk, bone, and ink. However, these substances cannot be produced from chakra alone, meaning the chakra is not changed in nature, and it is rather used to change already-existing substances. In Naruto: Shippūden episode 63, Yamato incorrectly says that no known shinobi has ever mastered all five nature transformations. In Naruto episode 174, Kunihisa used "techniques" he called "Money Release Technique" (金遁の術, Kinton no Jutsu, English TV: Money Style Jutsu) which was used to simply buy whatever he wanted. In some games, Shizune uses Hog Release (豚遁, Tonton), a technique where she uses Tonton. In the novel Sasuke Shinden: Book of Sunrise, Nowaki uses Typhoon Release (颱遁, Taiton), a variant of Wind Release. Sasuke Uchiha uses Blaze Release (炎遁, Enton), a variant of Fire Release. In Naruto Mobile, it is implied to be created by simultaneously combining the Fire and Lightning natures.[15] The Yata Mirror was said to be imbued with all nature transformations to change its own characteristics to deflect any attack.[16] In the trailer announcing in Naruto Mobile content from Naruto Shippūden the Movie: The Will of Fire, the game appears to reference an outdated version of the wiki's nature transformation chart.

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Kekkei genkai (血継限界, literally meaning: Bloodline Limit) are DNA anomalies that allow their wielders to use unique techniques. A kekkei genkai's name describes both the anomaly and the resulting technique. Most kekkei genkai are passed down between generations of a clan, an exception being Hashirama Senju's Wood Release. Likewise, most individuals with kekkei genkai only inherit one kekkei genkai, however this is not always the case.

Contents 1 Overview 2 List of Kekkei Genkai 2.1 Boil Release 2.2 Byakugan 2.3 Crystal Release 2.4 Dark Release 2.5 Explosion Release 2.6 Iburi Clan's Kekkei Genkai 2.7 Ice Release 2.8 Jōgan 2.9 Jūgo's Clan's Kekkei Genkai 2.10 Ketsuryūgan 2.11 Kokugan 2.12 Kurama Clan's Kekkei Genkai 2.13 Lava Release 2.14 Magnet Release 2.15 Mangekyō Sharingan 2.16 Mud Release 2.17 Ranmaru's Kekkei Genkai 2.18 Rinha Clan's Kekkei Genkai 2.19 Rinnegan 2.20 Ryūzetsu's Kekkei Genkai 2.21 Sakon and Ukon's Kekkei Genkai 2.22 Scorch Release 2.23 Senrigan 2.24 Sharingan 2.25 Shikotsumyaku 2.26 Steel Release 2.27 Storm Release 2.28 Swift Release 2.29 Tenseigan 2.30 Typhoon Release 2.31 Wood Release 2.32 Yanaru's Kekkei Genkai 3 Inspiration 4 Trivia 5 See Also 6 Notes 7 References Overview

Generally speaking, there are three types of kekkei genkai:

Dōjutsu are unique eyes with special perceptive abilities, such as X-ray vision or acute attention to detail. Some dōjutsu, such as the Byakugan, are present from birth, while others, such as the Sharingan, won't awaken until specific conditions are met. Dōjutsu that are consistently inherited within a particular family, such as the Byakugan's Hyūga clan and the Sharingan's Uchiha clan, often become synonymous with the clan. Advanced nature transformations combine two basic natures in order to create a new one, such as water and wind to make ice or fire and earth to make lava. Although it is common to use more than one nature, actually combining them requires a kekkei genkai. While some natures are commonly associated with a particular clan, such as ice with the Yuki clan, others occur within individuals with no known relationship, such as lava being used by natives of Iwagakure, Kirigakure, and Kumogakure. Certain kekkei genkai grant their users unrivalled ways of using their own bodies. Twin brothers Sakon and Ukon can merge their own or the bodies of unrelated people. Kimimaro's Shikotsumyaku enables him to freely manipulate his bones, such as growing an additional spine for him to wield like a whip. Jūgo's body passively absorbs natural energy, allowing him to use senjutsu without requiring any training.

Kekkei genkai make their users far more powerful than the average shinobi. In times of war they are deadly on the battlefield, and are often deployed to turn the tide of the battle. They are highly effective in this regard, but this tends to create issues for them after the conflict is over: survivors of the battle that witnessed or that lost loved ones to kekkei genkai users come to fear and hate them for their actions. They are persecuted because of their abilities, forcing them to the lower rungs of society or driving them into hiding. Even the villages that employ them may stigmatise them, relying on them in combat situations but being unconcerned with their actual survival.

Even though individuals with kekkei genkai are mistreated, the actual kekkei genkai remain coveted by many. Kumogakure, for example, has made different attempts to steal the Byakugan. The Hyūga clan has taken steps to preserve the secret of the Byakugan, first by obligating members of its branch families to sacrifice their lives for members of its main family, and furthermore by branding branch members in order to destroy their Byakugan when they die. Despite these safeguards, Ao of Kirigakure was able obtain a Byakugan, and he goes to great lengths to ensure it cannot be taken back.

When attempting to transfer kekkei genkai to others, dōjutsu are the easiest to work with; the recipient merely needs to be implanted with it. If the recipient does not have a genetic predisposition for the dōjutsu, using it will demand far more chakra than is required for natural users. For nature transformation kekkei genkai, only Hashirama Senju's Wood Release has been shown trying to be recreated in others: Orochimaru attempted to reproduce Wood Release by modifying tests subjects' DNA, succeeding only with Yamato;[1] Kabuto Yakushi perfected grafts of Hashirama that could be implanted in others, granting them Wood Release; Madara Uchiha developed a substance that, when used for artificial limbs, allows limited Wood Release usage. For bodily kekkei genkai, transferring or reproducing them appears to be prohibitively difficult: to acquire Kimimaro's Shikotsumyaku, Orochimaru planned to simply take over Kimimaro's body, a plan he had to abandon when Kimimaro's body was discovered to be dying; Kabuto succeeded to a certain extent, by creating an external extension body he can use to access the ability.

If an individual cannot gain access to a kekkei genkai directly, they can try instead to use it through the kekkei genkai's original user. Sasori could access the Third Kazekage's Magnet Release via a human puppet made from the Kazekage's body. Orochimaru and Kabuto use the Impure World Reincarnation to revive the dead – complete with any kekkei genkai they possessed during life – which are fully under their control. Kabuto also develops a method of creating mindless copies of kekkei genkai users which he generates as needed.[2]

List of Kekkei Genkai Boil Release

Main article: Boil Release

Boil Release (沸遁, Futton, Viz: Vapour Style) is a nature transformation kekkei genkai, a combination of fire and water. Whereas most kekkei genkai are largely identical between users, Boil Release has different forms depending on who's using it.

Byakugan

Main article: Byakugan

The Byakugan (白眼, literally meaning: White Eye, meaning (Viz): All Seeing White Eye) is a kekkei genkai dōjutsu that originated from the Ōtsutsuki clan. After the Ōtsutsuki settled on Earth,[3] the Byakugan became more commonly associated with the Hyūga clan,[4] descendants of the Ōtsutsuki. It is regarded as one of the "Three Great Dōjutsu", the others being the Sharingan and the Rinnegan.[5]

Crystal Release

Main article: Crystal Release

Crystal Release (晶遁, Shōton, English TV: Crystal Style) is a rare nature that is seen only in the anime.

Dark Release

Main article: Dark Release

Dark Release (冥遁, Meiton, Viz: Shade Style) is a combined nature transformation kekkei genkai that can be used to absorb, manipulate, and release chakra taken from an opponent. Hiruko used techniques of this nature through a mark on his left hand. This mark resembles two diamonds, one overlapping the other. Chakra is absorbed through the upper square, while it is released and manipulated through the lower.

Explosion Release

Main article: Explosion Release

Explosion Release (爆遁, Bakuton, Viz: Explosion Style) is a nature transformation kekkei genkai, suggested to be a combination of earth[6] and lightning.[Notes 1] Explosion Release users utilise explosive chakra in combat.

Iburi Clan's Kekkei Genkai

Main article: Iburi Clan's Kekkei Genkai

This unique kekkei genkai is possessed by the members of the Iburi clan, which allows them to turn their bodies, either partially or fully, into smoke to serve various purposes. While in their smoke form the user becomes impervious to damage and can use this trait to gain an opportunity in battle, for example by allowing weapons to slip through them without any effects. However, if needed, they can still interact with physical objects.

Ice Release

Main article: Ice Release

Ice Release (氷遁, Hyōton, Viz: Ice Style) is a nature transformation kekkei genkai, a combination of water and wind.[7] The Land of Water's Yuki clan was feared for the power of their Ice Release,[8] forcing its members to go into hiding to escape persecution.[9]

Jōgan

Main article: Jōgan

The Jōgan (淨眼, literally meaning: Pure Eye) is a unique dōjutsu that is known only by the Ōtsutsuki Clan,[10] whose members claim that it is troublesome and a power strongly inherited from their clan.[11] In the manga, the dōjutsu is featureless in appearance with a barely visible pupil.[12] When depicted in the anime, the dōjutsu is light blue in colour with a darkened sclera and visible pupil.[13]

Jūgo's Clan's Kekkei Genkai

Main article: Jūgo's Clan's Kekkei Genkai

The kekkei genkai of Jūgo's clan is an instinctual ability which allows its members to absorb and make use of natural energy without any training in senjutsu. Due to the steady but constant intake of natural energy, they are prone to mental instability, sporadically feeling sudden and uncontrollable urges to kill. The wielder's body can also secrete special fluids which, through means of Senjutsu chakra, allow them to transform parts of their bodies.

Ketsuryūgan

Main article: Ketsuryūgan

The Ketsuryūgan (血龍眼, literally meaning: Blood Dragon Eye), is a dōjutsu, which appears in certain individuals of the Chinoike clan. The Ketsuryūgan is recognised by its reddish colour, giving a special appearance for the users of this dōjutsu, characterised as holders of "eyes as red as blood". Its power earned it comparison to the Three Great Dōjutsu.

Kokugan

Main article: Kokugan

The Kokugan (黒眼, literally meaning: Black Eye)[14] is a dōjutsu used by Isshiki Ōtsutsuki and later Kawaki through his Kāma. It features a black pupil which glows gold when jutsu are used, and a black wheel-like pattern with eight spokes coming out of the centre. The iris area between adjacent spokes is gold.

Kurama Clan's Kekkei Genkai

Main article: Kurama Clan's Kekkei Genkai

A rare trait of the Kurama Clan. Every few generations, a member will be born with an incredible talent for genjutsu. The clan member's prowess in that field is so absolute that even without proper training, their genjutsu is simply overwhelming. Furthermore, the genjutsu is so powerful that it causes the brain to believe anything that happens to the victim to the point where the genjutsu physically harms the victim's body in the same manner they envisioned. This fearsome ability allows the clan member to potentially kill their opponents with genjutsu.

Lava Release

Main article: Lava Release

Lava Release (溶遁; 熔遁, Yōton, English TV: "Corrosion Style" or "Lava Style") is a nature transformation kekkei genkai, a combination of fire and earth. Whereas most kekkei genkai are largely identical between users, Lava Release has a variety of forms depending on who's using it.

Magnet Release

Main article: Magnet Release

Magnet Release (磁遁, Jiton, Viz: Magnet Style) is a nature transformation kekkei genkai,[15] suggested to be a combination of wind and earth.[Notes 2] Magnet Release users generate a magnetic force which they apply to other substances for various purposes.

Mangekyō Sharingan

Main article: Mangekyō Sharingan

The Mangekyō Sharingan (万華鏡写輪眼, literally meaning: Kaleidoscope Copy Wheel Eye) is an advanced form of the Sharingan that has only been activated by a handful of Uchiha when enduring a traumatic enough experience.[16] They are noted to be the "heavenly eyes that see the truth of all of creation without obstruction" (天壌の理を掌握せし瞳, tenjō no kotowari o shōakuseshi hitomi).[17]

Mud Release

Main article: Mud Release

Mud Release (泥遁, Deiton) is a nature transformation kekkei genkai, a combination of water and earth, the same natures used to create Wood Release. Few people have ever heard of Mud Release, to the point that Hidan was surprised it exists.

Ranmaru's Kekkei Genkai

Main article: Ranmaru's Kekkei Genkai

Ranmaru uniquely possessed a dōjutsu kekkei genkai which, when activated, causes his eyes to glow red in colour. It grants him abilities similar to those of the Byakugan, which his own dōjutsu has been likened to.

Rinha Clan's Kekkei Genkai

Main article: Rinha Clan's Kekkei Genkai

The kekkei genkai of the Rinha clan allows them to absorb a person's chakra and duplicate their appearance and memories.

Rinnegan

Main article: Rinnegan

The Rinnegan (輪廻眼, literally meaning: Saṃsāra Eye) is reputed as the most exalted eye amongst the "Three Great Dōjutsu",[18] the others being the Sharingan and the Byakugan. It is said that in times of disorder, one who wields the Rinnegan is sent down from the heavens to become either a "God of Creation" who will calm the world or a "God of Destruction" who will reduce everything to nothingness. The Rinnegan is characterised by concentric circles covering the eyeball.[19]

Ryūzetsu's Kekkei Genkai

Main article: Ryūzetsu's Kekkei Genkai

This unnamed kekkei genkai apparently allows the user to perform Reincarnation Ninjutsu as it allowed Ryūzetsu to perform the Dragon Life Reincarnation technique. It was seen only in Naruto the Movie: Blood Prison and Ryūzetsu was the only known user. Other details, such as whether it was common or rare and whether any other technique could be performed using it, are unknown.

Sakon and Ukon's Kekkei Genkai

Main article: Sakon and Ukon's Kekkei Genkai

Sakon and Ukon's unnamed kekkei genkai gives them the unique ability to break their bodies down to a molecular level. The two brothers usually use this ability to share the same body but can also use it to merge with the bodies of others and destroy the host's cells from the inside. When Sakon is in need of assistance, Ukon can bring out some of his body parts to aid Sakon in blocking or attacking. Ukon's arms and legs can emerge from those of Sakon's to increase the force and quantity to his physical attacks.

Scorch Release

Main article: Scorch Release

Scorch Release (灼遁, Shakuton, Viz: Scorch Style) is a nature transformation kekkei genkai. When Sasuke Uchiha and Naruto Uzumaki combine their fire and wind-natured techniques, the resulting technique is dubbed "Scorch Release",[20] suggesting those are its component natures.

Senrigan

Main article: Senrigan

The Senrigan (千里眼, literally meaning: Clairvoyance) is a dōjutsu awakened by some members of the Ōtsutsuki Clan, which grants vast clairvoyant abilities. Appearance-wise, it is distinguished by a bright-blue iris, a white-glowing pupil surrounded by a dark, waxing crescent shape, and a darkened sclera.

Sharingan

Main article: Sharingan

The Sharingan (写輪眼, literally meaning: Copy Wheel Eye, meaning (Viz): Mirror Wheel Eye) is the dōjutsu kekkei genkai of the Uchiha clan that appears selectively among its members.[21] It is regarded as one of the "Three Great Dōjutsu", the others being the Byakugan and the Rinnegan.[22]

Shikotsumyaku

Main article: Shikotsumyaku

Shikotsumyaku (屍骨脈, literally meaning: Dead Bone Pulse, meaning (Viz): Macabre Bone Pulse) is a kekkei genkai which gives its wielder the ability to manipulate their own bones. It very rarely manifests within members of the Kaguya clan, of which Kimimaro was the last survivor.

Steel Release

Main article: Steel Release

The Steel Release (鋼遁, Kōton, Viz: Steel Style) is a combined nature transformation kekkei genkai. It is unknown what elements this nature entails.

Storm Release

Main article: Storm Release

Storm Release (嵐遁, Ranton, Viz: "Gale Style" or "Storm Style") is a nature transformation kekkei genkai, a combination of lightning and water. It is used by several shinobi from Kumogakure,[23] most notably Darui.

Swift Release

Main article: Swift Release

Swift Release (迅遁, Jinton, Viz: Quick Style) is a combined nature transformation kekkei genkai that can be used to move with incredible speed, becoming nothing more than a blur when in motion. Therefore, taijutsu becomes ineffective if the opponent is not fast enough.

Tenseigan

Main article: Tenseigan

The Tenseigan (転生眼, literally meaning: Reincarnation Eye) is a dōjutsu introduced in The Last: Naruto the Movie. The movie's novelisation explains that the Tenseigan can be acquired when an Ōtsutsuki is implanted with the Byakugan of a Hyūga: this combination of the two clans' chakra transforms the Byakugan into Tenseigan.

Typhoon Release

Main article: Typhoon Release

Typhoon Release (颱遁, Taiton, English TV: Typhoon Style) is a nature transformation kekkei genkai, which consists of at least the wind nature transformation. It seems to essentially be a stronger form of Wind Release, involving the creation of vortexes that decimate the user's surroundings. Its only known user is Nowaki.

Wood Release

Main article: Wood Release

Wood Release (木遁, Mokuton, Viz: Wood Style) is a nature transformation kekkei genkai, a combination of Earth and Water Release.[24] It was famously used by Hashirama Senju, and in fact is not known to have naturally occurred in anyone else, with the exception of the Ten-Tails, whose true form is the God Tree, leading to it being regarded as impossible to use without having his cells.[25] Because of Wood Release's power and versatility, there have been various efforts to reproduce it after Hashirama's death.

Yanaru's Kekkei Genkai

Main article: Yanaru's Kekkei Genkai

Yanaru possesses a unique Kekkei Genkai, allowing him to mentally exchange information with his shadow clones, just as clones are able to transmit information to the main body. Yanara employs it to coordinate his clones for assassinations, while disguising himself as a member of his target's inner circle, where he acquires the necessary information to carry out the assassination, relaying it to his clones.

Inspiration

The concept of special ninja techniques limited by bloodline inheritance may have been inspired in part by the works of Futaro Yamada, which strongly influenced later depictions of ninja in fiction. In particular, The Kōga Ninja Scrolls (甲賀忍法帖, Kōga Ninpōchō), published in 1959, featured a pair of warring ninja clans that, through selective breeding, had produced ninja with a variety of deformities, mutations, and special abilities, even dōjutsu.

Trivia Kekkei genkai should not be confused with hiden techniques. Hiden techniques are exclusive to a certain person or clan, but only because they have kept others from learning how to perform those techniques. Some tailed beasts possess kekkei genkai, such as Shukaku's Magnet Release and Kokuō's Boil Release. In Sasuke Shinden: Book of Sunrise, Nowaki displays the kekkei genkai called Typhoon Release (颱遁, Taiton, English TV: Typhoon Style), which seems to be a more powerful version of Wind Release.

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Naruto (series) Sign in to edit This article is about the manga and anime series Naruto. For the title character Naruto Uzumaki, see Naruto Uzumaki. For other uses, see Naruto (disambiguation). This article uses Creative Commons licensed content from revision 110068400 of Wikipedia's Naruto article.

The list of authors can be seen in the page history there.

The cover of Shueisha's Weekly Shōnen Jump that contains the first Naruto manga chapter.

Naruto (NARUTO -ナルト-) is a manga by Masashi Kishimoto with an anime TV series adaptation. Its main character, Naruto Uzumaki, is a loud, hyperactive, adolescent ninja who constantly searches for approval and recognition, as well as to become Hokage, who is acknowledged as the leader and strongest of all ninja in the village.

The manga was first published by Shueisha in 1999 in the 43rd issue of Japan's Shōnen Jump magazine. VIZ Media publishes a translated version in the American Shōnen Jump, and is currently within a few volumes of the Japanese publication. Naruto has become VIZ Media's best-selling manga series.[1]

The animated television series, produced by Studio Pierrot and Aniplex, premiered across Japan on the terrestrial TV Tokyo network and the anime satellite television network Animax on October 3, 2002, and stopped airing on March 23, 2017. Viz also licensed the anime for North American production. Naruto debuted in the United States on Cartoon Network's Toonami programming block on September 10, 2005, and in Canada on YTV's Bionix on September 16, 2005. Naruto began showing in the UK on Jetix on July 22, 2006. It began showing on Toasted TV on January 12, 2007 in Australia, although it could be watched on Cartoon Network in 2006. The first series lasted nine seasons, while the second began its first on February 15, 2007.

In November 22, 2012, VP of Strategic Marketing and Promotions for Cartoon Network, Jason DeMarco, announced Naruto would make a come back to Toonami, now a block on Adult Swim on Saturday, December 1, 2012. Additionally, they mentioned that it would be uncut. The show started all the way back at episode 1 and was removed from the schedule after episode 52 on November 30, 2013 due to Toonami announced will be premieres January, 5 on Naruto: Shippūden. The show returned on May 31, 2024 on the Toonami Rewind block on Adult Swim.

Contents 1 Naruto Manga 1.1 Naruto Manga Pilot 2 Growth and Popularity 3 Anime Details 4 English-Language Broadcast 5 Plot Overview 6 Characters 7 References 8 External Links Naruto Manga

See also: List of Volumes and Chapter-Tankōbon Differences The Naruto manga has ended with 72 volumes and 700 chapters.

Naruto Manga Pilot

Naruto Geography.

Main article: Naruto Manga Pilot The first published incarnation of the Naruto series debuted in the 1997 summer issue of Akamaru Jump. Despite the positive feedback it received in a readers' poll, Masashi Kishimoto, the creator of Naruto, was unhappy with the art and the story. He rewrote the story to focus on ninja, which would go on to be serialized in Weekly Shōnen Jump in 1999.[2]

Growth and Popularity

See also: Naruto in Popular Culture The series' length and popularity is comparable to that of Akira Toriyama's Dragon Ball, another popular action/martial arts-oriented shōnen manga, and one that was said to have greatly influenced Kishimoto's manga, Naruto. Since its creation, Naruto has spawned a large number of fansites that contain detailed information, guides, and active forums. Some of the first and most popular sites targeted at English speaking audiences were established shortly after the first English manga volume was released in August of 2003. Also, like many other manga and anime titles, Naruto has also spawned its own collectible card game, along with an array of merchandise, such as action figures, clothing, stationery kits and household goods.

Naruto has had several collaborations with big name brands, including Primitive, Nike, Adidas, Coach, BAPE and Champion, and in 2022, Chinese phone company Realme released a Naruto-themed edition of their GT Neo 3 phone.

As of October 2014, the manga has over 220 million copies in print, with over 130 million copies in Japan and the remaining 75 million being overseas, making it the sixth best-selling manga series in history. The manga is also available in 35 countries outside Japan.[3][4] It has also become one of North American publisher VIZ Media's best-selling manga series. Their English adaptation of the series has appeared in the USA Today Booklist several times and volume 7 won the Quill Award in 2006.[5] In TV Asahi's latest top 100 Anime Ranking, Naruto ranked 17th on the list.[6]

In 2015, Live Spectacle Naruto, a stage play based off the series began showing, in 2018, a Naruto kabuki play of the show began it's run throughout Japan and in 2019, 2 Naruto theme parks, one in Japan and one in Shanghai, opened.

Anime Details

See also: List of Episodes and Anime-Manga Differences Even though it debuted some time after the manga, the anime quickly caught up, since one anime episode usually covers one or two manga chapters. To prevent overlapping, the anime's producers tend to organise content from the manga chapters into long, uneventful sections followed by short bursts of action, sometimes adding filler content in between. By the time the Sasuke Recovery Mission ended in the anime (episode 135), the series was at a point where it was quickly gaining on the manga. At the conclusion of this arc, the anime immediately switched to anime-only episodes to allow the manga to broaden the gap once more. Most of these episodes are stand-alone stories, with a few being part of arcs that were several episodes long, and lasted for a total of 85 episodes in the first series.

After the series moved back into manga-adapted episodes, it was renamed Naruto: Shippūden (ナルト 疾風伝, Naruto Shippūden, literally meaning: Naruto Hurricane Chronicles). The new series premiered on February 15, 2007.

The anime generally remains true to the manga, usually changing only minor details (causes of death, loss of limbs, and other injuries have been lessened in the anime) or expanding on parts skipped by the manga, such as the fight between Tenten and Temari. The anime-only arcs, though unreferenced in the manga (save for a few scant scenes), deal with the breaks between manga volumes, which covers a short period before the Sasuke Recovery Mission and several months before the time skip. The anime-only arcs tend to cover the supporting characters, occasionally giving insight into an otherwise rarely seen character.

New episodes, animated by Studio Pierrot, air weekly on TV Tokyo in Japan during the Golden Time slot (Japan's equivalent of prime time in the US). As of October 5, 2006, it shows on Thursday nights. The series has also spawned eleven movies: Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow, Naruto the Movie: Legend of the Stone of Gelel, Naruto the Movie: Guardians of the Crescent Moon Kingdom, Naruto Shippūden the Movie, Naruto Shippūden the Movie: Bonds, Naruto Shippūden the Movie: The Will of Fire, Naruto Shippūden the Movie: The Lost Tower, Naruto the Movie: Blood Prison,Road to Ninja: Naruto the Movie, The Last: Naruto the Movie and Boruto: Naruto the Movie.

English-Language Broadcast

On September 10, 2005, Naruto had its hour-long premiere in the U.S. on Cartoon Network's Toonami. The first episode of Naruto premiered in Canada on YTV's Bionix on September 16, 2005. In the United Kingdom, Naruto premiered on Jetix on July 22, 2006 after ended on 104 episodes. In Australia and New Zealand it premiered on Cartoon Network on September 27, 2006 and ended on 220 episodes. On October 28, 2009, Disney XD began airing English dubbed episodes of Naruto: Shippūden after November 5, 2011 and ended on 98 episodes. In Australia and New Zealand, Cartoon Network would be premiere on 2011 on Naruto: Shippūden.

In its English anime release, Naruto was aired with a TV-PG rating in the US and a PG rating in Canada. More explicit episodes, such as Jiraiya's debut and the battle with Zabuza, have been given a TV-PG-DS or a TV-PG-V rating. References to alcoholism, Japanese cultural differences, mild language, mild sexual situations, and even blood and death remain in the English version, though reduced.[7] Other networks make additional content edits apart from the edits done by Cartoon Network, such as Jetix's more strict censoring of blood, language, and the like are the same. The Adult Swim versions of the show did not edit anything.

Plot Overview

Further information: Plot of Naruto Twelve years before the events at the focus of the series, the Nine-Tailed Demon Fox attacked Konohagakure. It was a powerful demon; a single swing of one of its nine tails would raise tsunamis and flatten mountains. It raised chaos and caused the deaths of many, until the leader of Konoha, the Fourth Hokage, defeated it by sacrificing his own life to seal the demon inside a newly-born child. That child's name was Naruto Uzumaki.

The Fourth Hokage was celebrated as a hero for sealing the Nine-Tails away. He wanted Naruto to be respected in a similar light by being the containment vessel for the Nine-Tails. The village he grew up in, however, mostly shunned Naruto; they regarded him as if he were the Nine-Tails itself and mistreated him throughout most of his childhood.

A decree made by the Third Hokage made it so that the other villagers were forbidden to mention the event to anyone, even to their own children. However, this did not stop them from treating Naruto like an outcast. Although their children did not specifically know why their parents treated Naruto the way they did, they learned through example to despise the boy. As a result, Naruto grew up as an orphan in a lonesome atmosphere without friends, family, or acknowledgement. He could not force people to befriend him, so he sought acknowledgement and attention the only way he knew – through pranks and mischief. However, that soon changed after Naruto graduated from the Academy by using his Multiple Shadow Clone Technique to save his teacher, Iruka Umino, from the renegade ninja Mizuki. That encounter gave Naruto two insights: that he was the container of the Nine-Tails, and that there was someone besides the Third Hokage who actually cared about him. His graduation from the academy opened a gateway to the events and people that would change and define his world, including his way of the ninja for the rest of his life.

Naruto maintains a balance between drama and comedy, with plenty of action interspersed. It follows Naruto and his friends' personal growth and development as ninja, and emphasises their interactions with each other and the influence of their backgrounds on their personalities. Naruto finds two friends and comrades in Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno, two fellow young ninja who are assigned with him to form a three-person team under a very experienced sensei named Kakashi Hatake. Naruto also confides in other characters as well that he has met through the Chūnin Exam. They learn new abilities, get to know each other and other villagers better, and experience a coming-of-age journey as Naruto dreams of becoming the Hokage of Konoha.

Naruto places strong emphasis on character development. Almost all outcomes are a result of decisions, character, and personality; very few things happen just because of chance. At first, emphasis is placed on Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura, who are the members of Team 7. However, other characters are developed, such as Kakashi, Guy, and Jiraiya, as well as Naruto's peers in the other Genin teams and other villages.

Several major villains came into play as well, the first being Zabuza Momochi, a missing-nin from the Kirigakure, and his partner, Haku. Later, in the Chūnin Exam Arc, Orochimaru is introduced as an S-Class missing-nin at the top of Konoha's most wanted list, along with other Otogakure ninja, including Kabuto Yakushi, Team Dosu and the Sound Four. Later, a mysterious organisation called Akatsuki begins to pursue Naruto in order to take the Nine-Tails inside him and harness its power.

Characters

Some protagonists, antagonists and support characters of Naruto series.

See also: CharactersNaruto has a large and colourful cast of characters, running a gamut of detailed histories and complex personalities, and allowing many of them their fair share in the spotlight; they are also seen to grow and mature with the series, as it spans several years. As fitting for a coming-of-age saga, Naruto's world constantly expands and thickens, and his social relations are no exception – during his introduction he has only his teacher and the village's leader for sympathetic figures, but as the story progresses, more and more people become a part of his story.

The students at the Academy, where the story begins, are split up into teams of three after their graduation and become genin. Each team is assigned an experienced sensei. These core teams form a basis for the characters' interactions later in the series, where characters are chosen for missions for their team's strength and complementary skills; Naruto's Team 7 becomes the social frame where Naruto is acquainted with Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno, and their sensei Kakashi Hatake, also called the "copy ninja" for copying thousands of ninja techniques with his Sharingan, forming the core of his world-in-the-making. The other three-man teams of his former classmates form another such layer, as Naruto connects with them to various degrees, learning of their motives, vulnerabilities, and aspirations, often relating them to his own. The groups of three are not limited to the comrades Naruto's age – groups in the story in general come in threes and multiples of three with very few exceptions.

Sensei-student relationships play a significant role in the series; Naruto has a number of mentors with whom he trains and learns, most notably Kakashi Hatake and Jiraiya, and there are often running threads of tradition and tutelage binding together several generations. These role models provide guidance for their students not only in the ninja arts but also in a number of Japanese aesthetics and philosophical ideals. Techniques, ideals, and mentalities noticeably run in families, Naruto often being exposed to the abilities and traditions of generation-old clans in his village when friends from his own age group demonstrate them, or even achieve improvements of their own; it is poignantly noted that Naruto's generation is particularly talented.

Many of the greater lingering mysteries of the series are questions of character motives and identity. The legacy of Naruto's parents, the goals that guide Kabuto Yakushi, the identity of the mysterious Akatsuki leader – these are only a few of the fundamental unanswered questions of "who" and, by proxy, "why" currently at the core of the series. The story is remarkably character-driven; the theme of causality runs inherently throughout the series as characters reciprocate for their past actions and relationships. In this respect, characters' respective destinies are very much intertwined, and large emphasis is placed on comradeship and 'bonds' between the community or individual.

Character names often borrow from Japanese mythology, folklore and literature (such as the names borrowed from the folk-tale Jiraiya Goketsu Monogatari), or are otherwise elaborate puns; often there is a noticeable influence of the story behind the name shouldered by the character.[8]

References USA Today's Top 150 Best Seller list features VIZ Media's Shonen Jump's Naruto manga at number 29 Gan, Sheuo Hui (2013). "Auteur and Anime as Seen in the Naruto TV Series". In Berndt, Jacqueline; Kümmerling-Meibauer, Bettina (eds.). Manga's Cultural Crossroads. Hoboken: Taylor and Francis. p. 226. ISBN 978-1-134-10283-9. http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/interview/2015-10-14/masashi-kishimoto-at-new-york-comic-con/.94188 Naruto Manga Has 200 Million in Print Worldwide Naruto Wins 2006 Quill Award Japan's Favourite TV Anime Anime-Editz - Naruto Editz Guide Naruto names' origins and meanings

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1. Introduction

"Naruto" is more than just an anime or manga series—it's a cultural phenomenon that has defined an entire generation of anime fans. Created by Masashi Kishimoto, Naruto ran in Weekly Shōnen Jump from 1999 to 2014, spanning 72 manga volumes and later adapted into two long-running anime series: Naruto (2002–2007) and Naruto: Shippuden (2007–2017). Together, they tell the story of Naruto Uzumaki, a boy shunned by his village because he is the host of a terrifying beast—the Nine-Tailed Fox (Kurama). Despite his loneliness and suffering, Naruto dreams of becoming Hokage, the strongest ninja and leader of his village.

The story combines action, drama, comedy, and philosophy. It explores not only ninja battles and flashy jutsu, but also deeper human struggles: rejection, loss, hatred, the cycle of revenge, and the pursuit of peace. Over the years, "Naruto" became one of the "Big Three" shōnen anime alongside Bleach and One Piece, and its themes continue to resonate worldwide.

This essay will explore the world of Naruto in depth, from its lore and characters to its story arcs, themes, and cultural legacy.

2. The World of Naruto

The Naruto universe is set in a fictional world divided into Hidden Villages (shinobi villages), each with its own military force of ninja. These villages are led by Kage (shadow leaders), the strongest and wisest shinobi of the region. The most prominent is Konohagakure (Hidden Leaf Village), home to Naruto and many of the central characters. Other villages include Sunagakure (Sand), Kirigakure (Mist), Kumogakure (Cloud), and Iwagakure (Stone).

Chakra and Jutsu

The backbone of Naruto's world is chakra, a form of spiritual and physical energy that ninjas use to perform techniques called jutsu. Jutsu are divided into categories:

Ninjutsu: General techniques powered by chakra (fireballs, water dragons, shadow clones).

Taijutsu: Hand-to-hand combat techniques.

Genjutsu: Illusions that manipulate the senses.

Kekkei Genkai: Unique bloodline abilities, like the Uchiha's Sharingan or the Hyūga's Byakugan.

Clans

Shinobi society is structured around clans with hereditary powers. Notable ones include:

Uchiha Clan: Known for the Sharingan, a powerful eye technique.

Hyūga Clan: Known for the Byakugan and Gentle Fist fighting style.

Senju Clan: Ancestors of Hashirama Senju, the First Hokage.

Uzumaki Clan: Known for sealing techniques and strong life force.

This rich lore creates a backdrop where personal ambitions, clan politics, and international rivalries fuel the narrative.

3. Plot Overview Part 1: Naruto (2002–2007)

Naruto Uzumaki begins as a mischievous orphan in Konoha. Unknown to him at first, he carries within his body the Nine-Tailed Fox, a monster that once attacked the village. Because of this, he is shunned by villagers and grows up lonely. His dream is to become Hokage so that people will recognize him.

Team 7 Formation: Naruto graduates from the Ninja Academy and is placed in Team 7 with Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno, under the guidance of Kakashi Hatake.

Early Missions & Land of Waves Arc: The team faces Zabuza Momochi and Haku, learning the harsh realities of being a ninja.

Chunin Exams: Naruto and his friends enter a dangerous tournament. They face deadly opponents like Gaara of the Sand, Orochimaru infiltrates the exams, and Sasuke begins to crave more power.

Konoha Crush: Orochimaru attacks the Leaf Village, killing the Third Hokage.

Search for Tsunade: Naruto trains under Jiraiya and convinces Tsunade to become the Fifth Hokage.

Sasuke Retrieval Arc: Sasuke, consumed by revenge against his brother Itachi, leaves Konoha to seek power from Orochimaru. Naruto, Shikamaru, and others try to bring him back but fail. This ends Part 1 on a bittersweet note.

Part 2: Naruto Shippuden (2007–2017)

Two years later, Naruto returns from training with Jiraiya. The story shifts into darker themes and higher-stakes battles.

Akatsuki Threat: A group of rogue ninjas, the Akatsuki, hunts down tailed beasts like the one sealed in Naruto.

Rescue Gaara: Naruto helps save Gaara, now Kazekage, from the Akatsuki.

Sasuke's Path: Sasuke defeats Orochimaru and pursues his revenge against Itachi. Their battle reveals that Itachi was actually protecting Sasuke all along.

Pain's Invasion: The Akatsuki leader Pain attacks Konoha, destroying the village. Naruto confronts him and delivers one of the series' most iconic speeches about breaking the cycle of hatred.

Fourth Shinobi War: All villages unite against the Akatsuki and the resurrected Madara Uchiha. The true mastermind, Kaguya Ōtsutsuki, emerges as the final enemy.

Naruto vs Sasuke: The story culminates in a final battle between Naruto and Sasuke at the Valley of the End, echoing their first clash. Naruto's unwavering determination wins Sasuke's respect, ending their cycle of rivalry.

4. Main Characters

(Here I'll expand later with in-depth character studies—Naruto, Sasuke, Sakura, Kakashi, Itachi, Jiraiya, Orochimaru, Gaara, Pain, etc. Each section will be 300–500 words, making up a large chunk of the essay.)

Naruto Uzumaki

Naruto begins as the ultimate underdog. He is an orphan, shunned by villagers because of the Nine-Tailed Fox (Kurama) sealed inside him. His childhood is filled with loneliness, pranks, and desperate cries for attention. Despite this, he dreams of becoming Hokage, not only to be strong but to gain the recognition and love he has always craved.

Naruto's journey is one of relentless perseverance. He is not naturally talented like Sasuke or prodigious like Neji; instead, he succeeds through determination, creativity, and his ability to form bonds. His most iconic technique, the Shadow Clone Jutsu, is symbolic of his character—it allows him to multiply himself, as if filling the void of loneliness with companionship.

As the series progresses, Naruto matures into a leader. He learns to empathize with his enemies, most notably Gaara, Pain, and even Sasuke. He represents the theme of breaking the cycle of hatred—where others fall into vengeance, Naruto chooses forgiveness and understanding. By the end of Shippuden, he fulfills his dream of becoming Hokage, embodying the spirit of hope that defines the series.

Sasuke Uchiha

If Naruto is the embodiment of hope, Sasuke is the embodiment of tragedy. Born into the prestigious Uchiha clan, Sasuke's life changes when his brother, Itachi, massacres their entire clan. Consumed by grief and hatred, Sasuke dedicates his life to vengeance.

Initially, Sasuke is Naruto's rival but also his closest friend. He is talented, disciplined, and admired by his peers. However, his desire for revenge isolates him. He leaves Konoha to train under Orochimaru, abandoning bonds for power. Throughout Shippuden, Sasuke's path grows darker—he kills his brother, learns the truth about the Uchiha massacre, and seeks revenge against Konoha itself.

Sasuke's complexity lies in his contradictions. He is not truly evil; rather, he is a victim of circumstances, manipulated by forces like Itachi's secrets and Obito's lies. His final battle with Naruto is not just physical but ideological. Sasuke believes true peace can be achieved only through revolution, even dictatorship, while Naruto believes in unity and mutual understanding. Their clash resolves when Sasuke finally acknowledges Naruto's unwavering bond with him.

Sakura Haruno

Sakura begins as the most "ordinary" of Team 7. She has no special clan powers, no tailed beast, and no tragic backstory. Initially, her character is defined by her crush on Sasuke and rivalry with Ino. Many fans criticized her early role as passive compared to Naruto and Sasuke.

However, her development is significant. Trained by Tsunade, the Fifth Hokage, Sakura becomes a powerful medical ninja and gains monstrous strength. She plays a vital role in the war, healing thousands and even summoning the giant slug Katsuyu.

Her importance lies in balance: she represents the growth of "ordinary" ninjas who, through hard work, can stand beside legends. By the end of the series, Sakura is both emotionally and physically stronger, playing a crucial role in supporting Naruto and Sasuke.

Kakashi Hatake

Kakashi is one of the most beloved characters in Naruto. Known as the "Copy Ninja," he can replicate over a thousand jutsu with his Sharingan. But beneath his cool and laid-back exterior lies a tragic past.

As a child, Kakashi loses his father, Sakumo, who commits suicide after being disgraced. Later, during a mission, Kakashi witnesses the death of his teammate Rin and the supposed death of Obito. These traumas shape him into a strict rule-follower at first, but over time, he learns the value of comrades above rules.

Kakashi's teaching philosophy—"those who abandon the mission are trash, but those who abandon their comrades are worse than trash"—becomes central to Naruto's growth. He is both mentor and moral compass for Team 7. Eventually, after the Fourth Shinobi War, Kakashi himself becomes Hokage, symbolizing his journey from traumatized child to respected leader.

Itachi Uchiha

Itachi is perhaps the most complex and tragic figure in Naruto. Initially introduced as a cold-blooded murderer who slaughtered his clan, Itachi seems like a villain. However, his true story is one of sacrifice.

Itachi killed the Uchiha not out of malice but to prevent a civil war that would have destroyed Konoha. He bore the hatred of his brother and the world to protect the village. Even after his death, his actions influence Sasuke's path, creating one of the most heartbreaking relationships in anime.

Itachi embodies the theme of sacrifice for peace. He is both a hero and a villain, misunderstood until the very end. His final words to Sasuke—acknowledging him as a brother regardless of his choices—remain one of the most emotional moments in the series.

Gaara

Gaara's story parallels Naruto's but takes a darker path. Like Naruto, he is a jinchūriki (host of a tailed beast), shunned and feared by his village. Unlike Naruto, Gaara grows up believing only in violence, convinced that love does not exist.

His encounter with Naruto during the Chunin Exams is transformative. Naruto's determination and belief in bonds open Gaara's eyes to a different path. Gaara eventually becomes the Kazekage, respected and loved by his village. His redemption arc highlights Naruto's power to change people—not through force, but through empathy and understanding.

Jiraiya

Jiraiya, the "Pervy Sage," is both comic relief and one of the most tragic mentors in Naruto. A legendary Sannin, Jiraiya trains Naruto, teaching him the Rasengan and summoning techniques. But his importance goes beyond training—he is a father figure to Naruto.

Jiraiya's dream is to break the cycle of hatred and find peace. He mentors Nagato, Yahiko, and Konan in his youth, only to see them fall into darkness as the Akatsuki. His death at the hands of Pain is one of the most heartbreaking moments in the series. Yet, his teachings live on in Naruto, who fulfills Jiraiya's dream by choosing compassion over vengeance.

Pain / Nagato

Pain is one of the most powerful and philosophical antagonists in Naruto. Once a student of Jiraiya, Nagato becomes disillusioned by endless wars. Using the Rinnegan, he creates the Six Paths of Pain, a godlike persona that seeks peace through fear and destruction.

His ideology clashes with Naruto's. Pain believes that true peace can only come from shared suffering, while Naruto believes peace comes from understanding and bonds. Their battle is both physical and ideological. Naruto's victory—convincing Nagato to believe in him—represents the turning point where Naruto proves he can change the world.

Orochimaru

Orochimaru is the series' most sinister villain in Part 1. Obsessed with immortality and forbidden knowledge, he betrays Konoha and conducts horrific experiments. He tempts Sasuke with promises of power, symbolizing the darker path of ambition without morality.

Yet, even Orochimaru evolves. By the end of Shippuden, he becomes less antagonistic, even aiding the Allied Shinobi Forces. His character reflects the theme that even the darkest individuals are not beyond change.

5. Major Arcs

I'll break down the Chunin Exams, Pain's Invasion, Fourth Shinobi War, and why they matter narratively and thematically.

The Land of Waves Arc

The first true mission of Team 7 sets the tone for Naruto's world. At first, Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura believe they're on a simple escort mission, protecting a bridge builder named Tazuna. However, they soon face deadly assassins and the rogue ninja Zabuza Momochi and his apprentice Haku.

This arc introduces the reality of being a ninja—it's not just about flashy moves, but life-and-death battles, betrayal, and moral dilemmas. Haku's tragic loyalty to Zabuza parallels Naruto's loneliness. When Zabuza, once thought of as a cold-blooded killer, cries for Haku's sacrifice, Naruto learns the depth of bonds—even enemies are capable of love and loyalty.

The arc ends with Naruto's vow to find his own "nindo"—his ninja way. It sets the foundation for his character growth.

Chunin Exams Arc

Perhaps one of the most beloved arcs, the Chunin Exams introduce a wide cast of characters: Rock Lee, Neji Hyūga, Gaara, Temari, Shikamaru, and many more. The arc is structured as a tournament, but it quickly evolves into something larger.

The written exam tests intellect and teamwork. The Forest of Death is a survival test where Orochimaru first appears, marking Sasuke with the Cursed Seal. The preliminary matches showcase rivalries—Rock Lee's epic fight with Gaara, Naruto's underdog victory against Neji, and Sasuke's struggle with the seal.

The arc is significant because it shows growth under pressure. Naruto proves he's more than a clown, Sasuke begins his descent into darkness, and Gaara is revealed as a terrifying parallel to Naruto. The tension builds toward the invasion of Konoha.

Konoha Crush Arc

During the Chunin Exam finals, Orochimaru launches an attack on the Leaf Village with the help of the Sand Village. The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, faces Orochimaru in a battle that costs him his life.

This arc is important because it changes the political landscape of the series. The death of the Hokage leaves Konoha vulnerable, leading to Tsunade's eventual rise as Fifth Hokage. It also shows the fragility of peace—the Hidden Villages are not united, but divided by old grudges and manipulations.

Search for Tsunade Arc

Naruto trains under Jiraiya and learns the Rasengan, one of his signature moves. Jiraiya and Naruto travel to find Tsunade, a legendary Sannin and healer, to become Hokage. Orochimaru also seeks her help to heal his damaged arms.

The emotional core of the arc is Tsunade's decision. Haunted by the deaths of her brother and lover, she initially rejects the role of Hokage. Naruto's words—his dream to become Hokage despite ridicule—reignite her will. Tsunade accepts her duty, representing the passing of the torch between generations.

Sasuke Retrieval Arc

One of the most heartbreaking arcs in Part 1. After the Chunin Exams, Sasuke feels powerless compared to Naruto and Itachi. Tempted by Orochimaru, he decides to leave Konoha.

Shikamaru assembles a team—Naruto, Neji, Kiba, and Choji—to bring him back. Each faces deadly opponents from the Sound Four, showcasing their growth and sacrifice. The arc culminates in the first Naruto vs Sasuke battle at the Valley of the End.

Naruto, driven by his promise to Sakura and his bond with Sasuke, tries desperately to bring him back. Sasuke, torn between friendship and revenge, chooses darkness. Their battle is emotionally charged, symbolizing the clash between love and hatred. Naruto loses, and Sasuke leaves, setting up Shippuden's central conflict.

Kazekage Rescue Arc (Shippuden)

The start of Shippuden immediately raises the stakes. Gaara, now Kazekage, is kidnapped by the Akatsuki. Naruto, Sakura, and Kakashi embark on a mission to save him.

This arc reinforces Naruto's growth—his empathy for Gaara, who once mirrored his loneliness, is central. Despite their efforts, Gaara dies when the One-Tail is extracted. However, Chiyo, an elderly Sand ninja, sacrifices her life to revive him, symbolizing reconciliation between generations and villages.

Sasuke and Sai Arc

Naruto meets his new teammate, Sai, while continuing his search for Sasuke. This arc explores themes of teamwork and bonds. Sai, an emotionless assassin, learns the value of friendship through Naruto and Sakura.

The arc ends with Naruto narrowly missing Sasuke again, showing that Sasuke is slipping further into darkness.

Hidan and Kakuzu Arc

This arc highlights Shikamaru's growth. When Asuma, his mentor, is killed by Hidan, Shikamaru leads a mission to take revenge. His tactical genius allows him to outwit Hidan, trapping him forever.

The arc is important because it shows that Naruto is not the only one growing—Shikamaru, too, carries the will of fire.

Itachi Pursuit Arc

Sasuke's journey culminates in his long-awaited battle with Itachi. The fight is legendary, filled with illusions, symbolism, and emotion. Sasuke believes he has achieved his revenge, only to learn the truth: Itachi killed the Uchiha clan under orders from Konoha to prevent a coup.

Itachi's sacrifice shatters Sasuke's worldview, pushing him into deeper hatred. This revelation marks one of the darkest turns in the series.

Pain's Invasion Arc

Arguably the most iconic arc in Naruto. Pain, the leader of Akatsuki, attacks Konoha, leveling the village with his Almighty Push. The destruction is devastating, and Naruto returns as the village's last hope.

Naruto's battle with Pain is not only physical but ideological. Pain believes peace can only be achieved through shared suffering; Naruto believes in breaking the cycle of hatred. Their dialogue is one of the most profound in anime.

When Naruto finally convinces Nagato of his vision, Nagato sacrifices himself to revive the villagers he killed. This moment solidifies Naruto as a true hero of Konoha.

Five Kage Summit Arc

After Pain's defeat, Sasuke becomes a rogue menace. He attacks the Five Kage Summit, escalating tensions between villages. This arc highlights the fragile balance of power and sets the stage for the Fourth Shinobi War.

Naruto pleads for Sasuke, showing his refusal to give up on his friend. The arc is also where the truth about Madara Uchiha and the Eye of the Moon Plan is revealed, connecting the story to ancient history.

Fourth Shinobi World War Arc

The largest arc in Naruto, spanning hundreds of episodes. The Allied Shinobi Forces—composed of all major villages—unite against the Akatsuki. The war features countless battles:

The resurrection of legendary figures like Madara, Hashirama, and the previous Kage.

Naruto mastering Kurama's power and becoming the beacon of hope.

The heartbreaking story of Obito Uchiha, once Kakashi's friend, now turned villain.

Madara's rise as an almost unstoppable force.

The climax comes when Kaguya Ōtsutsuki, the originator of chakra, is revealed as the ultimate antagonist. Naruto and Sasuke, empowered by Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki, fight together to seal her.

Naruto vs Sasuke: The Final Battle

The war ends, but one final conflict remains—Naruto vs Sasuke at the Valley of the End. The battle is brutal, fueled by years of rivalry and brotherhood. Both are left armless, battered, yet emotionally closer than ever.

Sasuke admits defeat, acknowledging Naruto's unwavering bond. Their reconciliation ends the cycle of hatred that has plagued generations. The war is over, and Naruto's dream of peace begins to take form.

6. Themes

Naruto is not just action—it's about:

Loneliness & Belonging – Naruto's struggle as an outcast.

Cycle of Hatred – Explored through Nagato, Itachi, Sasuke.

Friendship & Bonds – The core of Naruto and Sasuke's rivalry.

Dreams & Legacy – Becoming Hokage, surpassing previous generations.

7. Naruto's Growth & Legacy

Naruto transforms from an unwanted prankster into the savior of the ninja world. His character embodies perseverance and hope.

8. Global Impact of Naruto

Naruto influenced anime culture globally. Its music, catchphrases ("Believe it!", "Dattebayo!"), and characters became iconic. The anime inspired millions, boosted manga sales worldwide, and opened doors for Japanese pop culture in the West.

9. Conclusion

"Naruto" is more than a coming-of-age story—it's a meditation on pain, love, and peace. Its impact is timeless, and Naruto Uzumaki's journey from loneliness to leadership continues to inspire new generations.

1. Introduction

"Naruto" is more than just an anime or manga series—it's a cultural phenomenon that has defined an entire generation of anime fans. Created by Masashi Kishimoto, Naruto ran in Weekly Shōnen Jump from 1999 to 2014, spanning 72 manga volumes and later adapted into two long-running anime series: Naruto (2002–2007) and Naruto: Shippuden (2007–2017). Together, they tell the story of Naruto Uzumaki, a boy shunned by his village because he is the host of a terrifying beast—the Nine-Tailed Fox (Kurama). Despite his loneliness and suffering, Naruto dreams of becoming Hokage, the strongest ninja and leader of his village.

The story combines action, drama, comedy, and philosophy. It explores not only ninja battles and flashy jutsu, but also deeper human struggles: rejection, loss, hatred, the cycle of revenge, and the pursuit of peace. Over the years, "Naruto" became one of the "Big Three" shōnen anime alongside Bleach and One Piece, and its themes continue to resonate worldwide.

This essay will explore the world of Naruto in depth, from its lore and characters to its story arcs, themes, and cultural legacy.

2. The World of Naruto

The Naruto universe is set in a fictional world divided into Hidden Villages (shinobi villages), each with its own military force of ninja. These villages are led by Kage (shadow leaders), the strongest and wisest shinobi of the region. The most prominent is Konohagakure (Hidden Leaf Village), home to Naruto and many of the central characters. Other villages include Sunagakure (Sand), Kirigakure (Mist), Kumogakure (Cloud), and Iwagakure (Stone).

Chakra and Jutsu

The backbone of Naruto's world is chakra, a form of spiritual and physical energy that ninjas use to perform techniques called jutsu. Jutsu are divided into categories:

Ninjutsu: General techniques powered by chakra (fireballs, water dragons, shadow clones).

Taijutsu: Hand-to-hand combat techniques.

Genjutsu: Illusions that manipulate the senses.

Kekkei Genkai: Unique bloodline abilities, like the Uchiha's Sharingan or the Hyūga's Byakugan.

Clans

Shinobi society is structured around clans with hereditary powers. Notable ones include:

Uchiha Clan: Known for the Sharingan, a powerful eye technique.

Hyūga Clan: Known for the Byakugan and Gentle Fist fighting style.

Senju Clan: Ancestors of Hashirama Senju, the First Hokage.

Uzumaki Clan: Known for sealing techniques and strong life force.

This rich lore creates a backdrop where personal ambitions, clan politics, and international rivalries fuel the narrative.

3. Plot Overview Part 1: Naruto (2002–2007)

Naruto Uzumaki begins as a mischievous orphan in Konoha. Unknown to him at first, he carries within his body the Nine-Tailed Fox, a monster that once attacked the village. Because of this, he is shunned by villagers and grows up lonely. His dream is to become Hokage so that people will recognize him.

Team 7 Formation: Naruto graduates from the Ninja Academy and is placed in Team 7 with Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno, under the guidance of Kakashi Hatake.

Early Missions & Land of Waves Arc: The team faces Zabuza Momochi and Haku, learning the harsh realities of being a ninja.

Chunin Exams: Naruto and his friends enter a dangerous tournament. They face deadly opponents like Gaara of the Sand, Orochimaru infiltrates the exams, and Sasuke begins to crave more power.

Konoha Crush: Orochimaru attacks the Leaf Village, killing the Third Hokage.

Search for Tsunade: Naruto trains under Jiraiya and convinces Tsunade to become the Fifth Hokage.

Sasuke Retrieval Arc: Sasuke, consumed by revenge against his brother Itachi, leaves Konoha to seek power from Orochimaru. Naruto, Shikamaru, and others try to bring him back but fail. This ends Part 1 on a bittersweet note.

Part 2: Naruto Shippuden (2007–2017)

Two years later, Naruto returns from training with Jiraiya. The story shifts into darker themes and higher-stakes battles.

Akatsuki Threat: A group of rogue ninjas, the Akatsuki, hunts down tailed beasts like the one sealed in Naruto.

Rescue Gaara: Naruto helps save Gaara, now Kazekage, from the Akatsuki.

Sasuke's Path: Sasuke defeats Orochimaru and pursues his revenge against Itachi. Their battle reveals that Itachi was actually protecting Sasuke all along.

Pain's Invasion: The Akatsuki leader Pain attacks Konoha, destroying the village. Naruto confronts him and delivers one of the series' most iconic speeches about breaking the cycle of hatred.

Fourth Shinobi War: All villages unite against the Akatsuki and the resurrected Madara Uchiha. The true mastermind, Kaguya Ōtsutsuki, emerges as the final enemy.

Naruto vs Sasuke: The story culminates in a final battle between Naruto and Sasuke at the Valley of the End, echoing their first clash. Naruto's unwavering determination wins Sasuke's respect, ending their cycle of rivalry.

4. Main Characters

(Here I'll expand later with in-depth character studies—Naruto, Sasuke, Sakura, Kakashi, Itachi, Jiraiya, Orochimaru, Gaara, Pain, etc. Each section will be 300–500 words, making up a large chunk of the essay.)

Naruto Uzumaki

Naruto begins as the ultimate underdog. He is an orphan, shunned by villagers because of the Nine-Tailed Fox (Kurama) sealed inside him. His childhood is filled with loneliness, pranks, and desperate cries for attention. Despite this, he dreams of becoming Hokage, not only to be strong but to gain the recognition and love he has always craved.

Naruto's journey is one of relentless perseverance. He is not naturally talented like Sasuke or prodigious like Neji; instead, he succeeds through determination, creativity, and his ability to form bonds. His most iconic technique, the Shadow Clone Jutsu, is symbolic of his character—it allows him to multiply himself, as if filling the void of loneliness with companionship.

As the series progresses, Naruto matures into a leader. He learns to empathize with his enemies, most notably Gaara, Pain, and even Sasuke. He represents the theme of breaking the cycle of hatred—where others fall into vengeance, Naruto chooses forgiveness and understanding. By the end of Shippuden, he fulfills his dream of becoming Hokage, embodying the spirit of hope that defines the series.

Sasuke Uchiha

If Naruto is the embodiment of hope, Sasuke is the embodiment of tragedy. Born into the prestigious Uchiha clan, Sasuke's life changes when his brother, Itachi, massacres their entire clan. Consumed by grief and hatred, Sasuke dedicates his life to vengeance.

Initially, Sasuke is Naruto's rival but also his closest friend. He is talented, disciplined, and admired by his peers. However, his desire for revenge isolates him. He leaves Konoha to train under Orochimaru, abandoning bonds for power. Throughout Shippuden, Sasuke's path grows darker—he kills his brother, learns the truth about the Uchiha massacre, and seeks revenge against Konoha itself.

Sasuke's complexity lies in his contradictions. He is not truly evil; rather, he is a victim of circumstances, manipulated by forces like Itachi's secrets and Obito's lies. His final battle with Naruto is not just physical but ideological. Sasuke believes true peace can be achieved only through revolution, even dictatorship, while Naruto believes in unity and mutual understanding. Their clash resolves when Sasuke finally acknowledges Naruto's unwavering bond with him.

Sakura Haruno

Sakura begins as the most "ordinary" of Team 7. She has no special clan powers, no tailed beast, and no tragic backstory. Initially, her character is defined by her crush on Sasuke and rivalry with Ino. Many fans criticized her early role as passive compared to Naruto and Sasuke.

However, her development is significant. Trained by Tsunade, the Fifth Hokage, Sakura becomes a powerful medical ninja and gains monstrous strength. She plays a vital role in the war, healing thousands and even summoning the giant slug Katsuyu.

Her importance lies in balance: she represents the growth of "ordinary" ninjas who, through hard work, can stand beside legends. By the end of the series, Sakura is both emotionally and physically stronger, playing a crucial role in supporting Naruto and Sasuke.

Kakashi Hatake

Kakashi is one of the most beloved characters in Naruto. Known as the "Copy Ninja," he can replicate over a thousand jutsu with his Sharingan. But beneath his cool and laid-back exterior lies a tragic past.

As a child, Kakashi loses his father, Sakumo, who commits suicide after being disgraced. Later, during a mission, Kakashi witnesses the death of his teammate Rin and the supposed death of Obito. These traumas shape him into a strict rule-follower at first, but over time, he learns the value of comrades above rules.