This article includes spoilers for the Naruto series.
Overview of Their Strengths
- Sasuke initially held the superior power over Naruto during Shippuden.
- However, Naruto eclipsed Sasuke by harnessing Sage Mode and Nine-Tails chakra.
- Ultimately, Naruto’s Six Paths Sage Mode vastly increased his capabilities beyond Sasuke’s.
Naruto and Sasuke: A Dynamic Rivalry
Naruto Uzumaki and Sasuke Uchiha serve as the cornerstone characters in the Naruto manga series, with their relationship evolving throughout the narrative. From their early encounters, the duo established a bond rooted in admiration and rivalry. While Naruto was stigmatized by the villagers due to the impact of his lineage, Sasuke enjoyed widespread popularity and acclaim.
Their contrasting upbringings fueled a complex relationship, each understanding the other’s suffering on a profound level. However, this connection strained when Sasuke chose a darker path, abandoning his home to pursue power under Orochimaru. A pivotal moment in their rivalry was highlighted during their battle on the rooftop, where Sasuke was taken aback by Naruto’s formidable Rasengan. Many fans debate the extent of Sasuke’s initial dominance over Naruto during their encounters.
Sasuke’s Initial Superiority
Indeed, Sasuke held a significant advantage during their early confrontations in Part 2. Following a three-year training period, he demonstrated considerable growth, having mastered the Curse Seal provided by Orochimaru. This enhancement, along with his acquisition of the Kusanagi sword—a weapon noted for its cutting potential—solidified his upper hand. Additionally, Sasuke’s mastery of Kirin, a devastating jutsu, could likely have bypassed Naruto’s defenses easily.
While Sasuke’s association with Orochimaru proved beneficial, Naruto’s mentorship under Jiraiya was not as fruitful. Naruto had already perfected the Rasengan before their separation, leaving little for Jiraiya to impart during the timeskip. It wasn’t until after Jiraiya’s passing that Naruto unlocked Sage Mode with the guidance of Fukasaku, and he subsequently developed the Rasenshuriken with help from Kakashi and Yamato. Many fans assert that had Jiraiya equipped Naruto with an understanding of Sage Mode earlier, the course of their rivalry may have shifted dramatically.
Naruto’s Ascendancy In Power
As the narrative progressed, the tides turned in favor of Naruto when he achieved Sage Mode and unlocked the Nine-Tails’ vast chakra. These transformative abilities demanded great mental and physical resilience, which propelled Naruto into a new echelon of strength. The Nine-Tails chakra enhancement allowed him to accelerate his movements and rapidly recuperate from injuries, while amplifying the lethality of his attacks.
Furthermore, Naruto received a monumental boost from Hagoromo Otsutsuki in the form of Six Paths Sage Mode. This unprecedented upgrade rendered him even more formidable. With this power, Naruto could access the Truth-Seeking Balls—an achievement beyond the reach of ordinary shinobi—and enhanced his sensory skills, allowing him to perceive beings in alternate dimensions, such as Madara’s Limbo clones. Significantly, the mastery of natural energy correlated with the strength of his offensive capabilities.
Who Emerged Victorious in the End?
The debate regarding who ultimately surpassed whom—Naruto or Sasuke—culminated at the end of the Fourth Great Ninja War. Fans often recall their final clash, which concluded in a draw; however, it’s notable that Naruto was the stronger fighter in that encounter.
While Sasuke aimed to defeat Naruto without restraint, Naruto refrained from lethal force, choosing instead to save Sasuke and reintegrate him into the Hidden Leaf. Had Naruto fully unleashed his power with the intent to eliminate Sasuke, it is likely the outcome would have favored him decisively.