The universe of the Naruto franchise, while beloved by fans, is far from a perfect environment. Beyond the numerous formidable villains constantly seeking dominance, various elements within this world contribute to its inherent discomfort. A significant factor is the outer focus on ruthlessness among ninjas, which has historically led to significant anguish and chaos.
The main character, Naruto Uzumaki, aspired to foster a world where ninjas would embrace kindness and collaboration. However, the recent transformation of Shikamaru into a darker incarnation of Hokage in the Boruto: Two Blue Vortex manga suggests that such ideals may still be in jeopardy.
The Shinobi World: A Need for Evolution
Shikamaru’s Actions Reveal Ongoing Hatred Among Ninjas
In Boruto: Two Blue Vortex, fans witness Shikamaru’s transition from a compassionate ally to a ruthless leader, determined to eradicate the Divine Trees at any cost. As the Eighth Hokage, he appears to have forsaken the values championed by his predecessor, opting instead for the severe tactics reminiscent of previous generations. This was starkly highlighted in chapter 21 of the manga, where Kashin Koji unearthed the truth about Shikamaru’s decision to send Konohamaru and Yodo on a lethal mission without their knowledge, illustrating his readiness to sacrifice others for what he deems the greater good.
Such drastic choices, which had been consciously avoided since the conclusion of the Fourth Great Ninja War, seem at odds with the ideals set forth by Naruto and his companions. The prior Hokage aimed to ensure that the sacrifices made during warfare would not be in vain—believing that such atrocities were unconscionable. Shikamaru’s shift to a merciless leader is particularly disconcerting, not just due to his actions, but because it emerges from someone who has stood shoulder to shoulder with Naruto for years. His choices indicate a dissonance with those earlier teachings.
Shikamaru’s willingness to place Konohamaru and Yodo in peril starkly suggests that the Shinobi World has not evolved as Naruto had envisioned. Although the Elemental Nations previously showed a willingness to cooperate, the looming threat posed by Jura and his Divine Trees has revived an era of viewing others merely as tools for survival. While Naruto’s presence may have tempered these regressive ideas, his absence has left the Hidden Villages vulnerable and fearful.
Shikamaru’s Past Aligns with His Former Ideals
His Previous Personality Highlights the Shift
The Sasuke Retrieval arc in the original Naruto series stands out as one of the most pivotal and impactful narratives. Shikamaru emerged as a key figure, showcasing remarkable growth during his leadership mission. Upon returning home with wounded teammates, he grappled with feelings of inadequacy, questioning his worthiness as a shinobi.
Confronted by the harsh realities of their world, Shikamaru wished for greater strength to protect his friends and allies. His father encouraged him to train harder, emphasizing his potential to ensure that friends would never again suffer. In those formative moments, Shikamaru embodied compassion, loyalty, and a resolve fueled by kindness. The Shikamaru depicted in Boruto: Two Blue Vortex starkly contrasts this earlier version; as Hokage, he appears to have renounced the values that once propelled him forward.
Despite still seeking to safeguard his village, his ruthlessness marks a troubling departure from his previously held values. His decision to sacrifice Konohamaru—one of Naruto’s cherished students and one of his oldest allies—speaks to a transformation driven by the monumental pressures of confronting the series’ most formidable villains, ultimately showing how the darkness of the Shinobi World has tainted him.
The Vital Role of Naruto in the Ninja World
In His Absence, the Shinobi World Is at Risk
The shift observed in Shikamaru, indicative of a relapse into prior brutalities, also signals a deeper, more concerning trend. While Naruto presided over Konoha, the era of peace remained largely uninterrupted. His presumed death in chapter 78 of the Boruto manga may well be a catalyst for the disturbing changes unfolding within the ninja world. Naruto represented more than just formidable strength; he stood as a beacon of hope and progress.
The other villages recognized that the Hidden Leaf and Naruto would be unwavering allies in times of need. With his absence, fear pervades the landscape, especially with the looming threat of Jura and the Divine Trees. Although Shikamaru’s decisions appear harsh, it’s evident he hasn’t become morally indifferent as Hokage; he continues to strive for peace and the safety of his people, albeit compromised by his ethical boundaries.
Boruto: A Potential Catalyst for Change
Determined to Uphold His Father’s Legacy
Chapter 21 of the Boruto: Two Blue Vortex manga series introduces a compelling narrative twist that may guide the series ahead. Boruto, fueled by his anger toward his mentor’s deceit regarding Konohamaru and Yodo, rebels against Shikamaru’s orders and risks everything to save his teacher from imminent danger.
In this rebellion, Boruto emerges as a symbol of hope within the Shinobi World, illustrating that the Divine Trees can indeed be vanquished while simultaneously championing the ideals instilled by his father. As his journey unfolds, Boruto possesses the potential to reignite the lessons of the Naruto universe, guiding his peers to create a truly transformative future. Collectively, Boruto and his circle of friends may evolve into the leaders imperative for ushering in meaningful change.