For numerous years, fans of the Boruto manga have voiced their dissatisfaction regarding the inequitable power distribution among characters. Despite boasting a diverse and renowned cast of ninjas—many of whom were formidable forces in the original series—the story predominantly features a select few warriors capable of making substantial plot contributions.
Aside from the series protagonist, members of the Otsutsuki clan, and the newly introduced Divine Trees, few characters have sustained relevance within the narrative. Despite ongoing complaints from the fanbase, the manga appears resistant to altering its approach to power scaling, as highlighted by Ryu, a villain who can only be challenged by Boruto.
Regular Shinobi Cannot Compete with Ryu
His Powers Make Him Almost Invincible
Ryu emerges as one of the most formidable antagonists within the Naruto universe, born from the amalgamation of Shinki’s DNA and abilities, Gaara’s adoptive son. His mastery over Iron Sand—an ability respected and feared for its versatility—offers him a significant edge. Furthermore, Ryu possesses enhanced speed, strength, and durability, owing to the Chakra of the Ten-Tails. However, his overwhelming advantages render him nearly invincible, a reality starkly illustrated in chapter #20 of the Two Blue Vortex manga.
In this chapter, after the controversial Araya’s sword is used to control Ryu, Mitsuki attempts to defeat the Divine Tree utilizing his remarkable Sage Mode speed. Unfortunately, he fails to land a hit as Ryu morphs into Iron Sand to escape. This critical moment reveals that Shinki’s clone is composed of a far more adaptable material than his counterparts, making it nearly impossible for the heroes to land a successful attack against such a formidable adversary.
Currently, the characters are up against a foe who far outmatches any conventional shinobi. They had hoped to rely on Araya’s sword, which was swiftly taken from them. Now, Sarada’s team can do little but wait for Boruto to make his entrance and turn the tide. If this occurs, it would only perpetuate the ongoing trend of the narrative relying heavily on a select few powerful characters, a situation likely to frustrate fans.
Not Even Sarada’s New Skills Are Enough
Ryu Is Still Stronger Than the Uchiha Heir
In chapter #20 of *Boruto: Two Blue Vortex*, Sarada unlocks her new Mangekyo Sharingan capabilities, utilizing it to absorb Ryu’s sand. While not fully fleshed out yet, her powers appear to create a pocket dimension capable of drawing in anything desirable. This ability temporarily hinders Ryu’s reliance on his sand powers; however, even this significant skill falls short of ensuring victory against the Divine Tree without Boruto’s intervention.
Evidence of Ryu’s formidable strength can be found in Sarada’s battle against Hidari in chapter #10 and the ongoing clash between Konohamaru and Matsuri. Even depriving Ryu of his Iron Sand may not be enough, as the threat from the villain’s inherent abilities remains. Additionally, with Jura watching from a distance, he can intervene, safeguarding Ryu from defeat. To genuinely overcome Ryu, the heroes must target and destroy his Thorn Soul Bulb.
The only characters capable of achieving this, barring Jura’s arrival, are Boruto and Kashin Koji. Consequently, Sarada and her companions are once again relegated to a waiting position for the protagonist’s timely rescue. Despite Sarada’s substantial character development—including acknowledging her feelings for Boruto and unleashing her Mangekyo Sharingan—she remains confined to a supporting role.
Konohamaru Might Need Help as Well
Boruto’s Teacher Is in Grave Danger
While reliant on Boruto for rescue may be disheartening for Sarada, chapter #20 escalates concerns by placing another character in extreme peril. Following an incident where Konohamaru dupes Matsuri into trusting him, he momentarily hesitates with two massive Rasengan aimed at her, ultimately sparing her life due to his doubts. This missed opportunity to shine leads to swift retaliation from the Divine Tree, underscoring the dire stakes at play.
With no allies nearby, Konohamaru can do little but hope his former student arrives in time to thwart their adversary. This predicament is arguably more frustrating than Sarada’s situation due to the fact that the Jonin possesses the skill set required to ultimately overpower Matsuri. His hesitance, brought on by emotional attachments and visions of Moegi—his past friend and unacknowledged crush—places him as yet another victim of the ongoing power imbalance within the series.
Sarada Could Surprise Fans
The Full Extent of Her Abilities Has Not Yet Been Confirmed
While anticipation builds for Boruto to be the savior of the day, chapter #21 of *Boruto: Two Blue Vortex* presents an opportunity to spotlight Sarada. Her recent employ of Mangekyo Sharingan powers was only superficially explored; she merely absorbed the loose sand utilized by Ryu. There may be more surprises in store for her abilities, potentially establishing her as a genuine threat to the Divine Trees. Such a confrontation could serve as a blueprint for how other characters reclaim their importance in the storyline.
Ultimately, the Boruto: Two Blue Vortex manga has a chance to demonstrate growth and evolution in its narrative, though signs currently indicate otherwise. Still, fans remain hopeful for an address of the prevailing power imbalance, as rectifying this could greatly enhance the reading experience.