This article contains spoilers from the Boruto: Two Blue Vortex manga.
The Boruto manga moves on without Naruto Uzumaki, despite constant demands from longtime fans to bring him back as soon as possible. It’s been ages since fans saw an active Naruto in Konoha and on the battlefield, with many beginning to wonder if Kishimoto is intentionally saving Naruto’s epic comeback near the end of the Boruto manga.
After all, Boruto is not Naruto Uzumaki’s story anymore, and his era has long passed. By sealing Naruto, in addition to Sasuke’s unfortunate situation, Kishimoto and Ikemoto effectively marked the end of the older generation’s watchful protection, at least for now. Whether fans like it or not, Naruto won’t be seeing the light of day anytime soon.
Boruto Is No Longer About Naruto Uzumaki
Naruto Has Long Passed the Torch to Boruto
- Boruto is not Naruto Uzumaki's story.
- Boruto moves on without Naruto Uzumaki on the front line.
Many anime and manga fans grew up with Naruto Uzumaki, watching him evolve from a cheeky yet lonely outcast into a legendary hero who unites the shinobi world in his own ninja way. So, it’s very understandable that Naruto's long absence in Boruto has left fans frustrated and disappointed, especially now that an incredibly powerful villain has been threatening the world.
However, as much as fans would love to see Naruto own the spotlight once again like he used to in the original series, it’s time to accept that Boruto is no longer about Naruto Uzumaki. From day one, the manga has been clear in its intention to shift the focus toward Boruto Uzumaki and the next generation, exploring their struggles, ideals, and the challenges of living in a modern Konoha shaped by the heroes who came before them.
Of course, letting go of Naruto and the older generation isn’t easy, considering the massive influence they have despite being inactive and mostly absent in Boruto. Fans are still optimistic about the Seventh Hokage’s future, hoping that Kishimoto and Ikemoto will give Naruto an incredible power-up that could re-establish his legendary status. But, as mentioned, Boruto is no longer about Naruto, so it wouldn’t be a surprise if he never receives another major power-up.
Naruto’s Absence Pushes Boruto to Grow Stronger
Kishimoto Used Naruto’s Sealing to Level Up the Next Generation
Even without a proper statement, it’s very clear that Kishimoto used Naruto’s sealing to force Boruto Uzumaki and the next generation to grow stronger. Without Naruto, it’s easier for Kishimoto to accelerate Boruto’s growth and throw him into countless life-or-death situations. With Naruto around, those crucial moments for Boruto would lose weight, considering the Seventh Hokage would step in to save the day.
It’s not just Boruto who has grown stronger after Naruto was sealed, as Sarada also learned to adapt to a more dangerous and uncertain world. She has embraced a bigger responsibility, with her being immune to Eida’s omnipotence, on top of unlocking the Mangekyo Sharingan: Ohirume. Then there’s Himawari, who also receives a major power-up, with her being the tailed beast incarnation of Kurama.
Until I reach my dream, I refuse to die.—Naruto Uzumaki
In Naruto’s absence, Boruto and the next generation finally learned what it means to live in an uncertain world without its greatest protector. They finally had a taste of true vulnerability, and every decision now carries a greater risk. Unfortunately, this won’t change anytime soon, as Kishimoto and Ikemoto are seemingly planning to keep Naruto sealed for a long while.
Naruto Could Return Near the End of Boruto
Naruto’s Finale Comeback Is One Way to End Boruto Right
Most of the fans are now convinced that Naruto Uzumaki will return near the end of the Boruto manga, specifically after the big fight between Boruto and Kawaki. It’s one way to end Boruto, right, by giving the series a heartfelt reunion between a father and a son who have endured years of separation.
Besides, it is Boruto’s goal to restore the Uzumaki household, so bringing back Naruto prematurely would undermine that mission. Naruto’s absence serves as one of Boruto’s greatest motivations, pushing him to become strong enough not only to protect the world but also to avoid an untimely death. Naruto’s return would serve as the ultimate payoff for Boruto’s struggles, so it’s only fitting that it comes after he has overcome his greatest fight.
- Release Date
- April 5, 2017
- Network
- TV Tokyo
