Boruto: Kishimoto Might Have Introduced The Next Danzo

Summary

Blurring the lines between good and evil, Boruto’s sequel introduces a darker character archetype reminiscent of Danzo Shimura.
Shikamaru, known for his intelligence, takes on a darker role in Boruto, favoring practicality over Naruto’s idealism.
Shikamaru develops plans reminiscent of Danzo, showcasing his potential to become a morally gray figure in the series.

In the continuation of Naruto’s storyline through Boruto and its successor, Two Blue Vortex, we’ve seen a host of fresh developments and character advancements, although they haven’t followed the paths fans might have predicted. Recent installments of Two Blue Vortex have revived an age-old character trope within the series, one that stirred debates among viewers during Naruto.

In the initial Naruto series, a character named Danzo served as a leader who elicited strong feelings from viewers because of his questionable actions. This complex figure was either admired or despised. In contrast, Boruto didn’t have such a character. However, recent chapters have brought back a similar type of character. Although the new character may not be as villainous as Danzo, they still represent the same divisive nature as the former advisor to the Hokage.

Danzo’s Role in the Naruto Series

Danzo Offset Several Major Events in Naruto

I found myself captivated by the roster of villains in the Naruto series, each one etching their place in anime lore as some of the most intriguing and memorable characters ever created. Among these formidable adversaries stands a unique figure – Danzo Shimura. His morally ambiguous nature sparked heated debates among viewers throughout Naruto, making him a character that demanded attention. As an advisor and founder of the Root Anbu organization, Danzo loomed large, shaping many pivotal moments in the series. From orchestrating the Uchiha Massacre to subtly manipulating the formation of the Akatsuki, Danzo cast a long shadow over numerous significant events within Naruto’s narrative.

Interestingly enough, Danzo’s character was most fascinating due to his sly nature and ominous demeanor. He wasn’t one to shy away from actions that seemed beneficial for the village, even if the outcomes were questionable. To some, Danzo was merely a despicable figure, but his portrayal in the series highlighted the complexities of leadership often overlooked. Unfortunately, Danzo met a grim end in Shippuden, and his character type seemed to disappear from the series. However, in the Boruto series, a similar character has been reintroduced, leaving viewers surprised.

The New Danzo in Boruto

Shikamaru Has Taken a Path Similar to Danzo

The Boruto series has reintroduced the character archetype of the Hokage, Shikamaru Nara, in a new light. Regarded as one of the sharpest minds within the entire Naruto universe, Shikamaru demonstrated his potential right from the start and was considered second only to Konoha’s top leadership due to his intelligence. In Boruto: Two Blue Vortex, however, Shikamaru shifted towards a more somber role, contrasting Naruto’s leadership style.

Naruto has consistently leaned towards justice, compassion, and generosity, while Shikamaru’s approach to leadership often leans in the opposite direction. This contrast became evident when Kawaki arrived at Konoha. Naruto’s altruistic nature caused him to take Kawaki under his wing as his own child, treating him with the same love he shows Boruto. He provided him with a home, meals, and security, and swore to safeguard him from the danger posed by Kara.

Naruto probably wouldn’t take this route… but I’m not him.

Initially, Shikamaru seemed inclined to expel Kawaki from the Hidden Leaf Village, but it was Naruto’s firm stance that made him yield. This incident hinted at a darker side to Shikamaru’s personality, which was fully realized in Boruto: Two Blue Vortex. With Naruto uncertain about his future and Konoha’s leadership now with Shikamaru, he has revealed a character reminiscent of Danzo from the original Naruto series.

Shikamaru’s Divisive Decisions

Shikamaru Continues to Make Morally Gray Decisions For the Sake Of Konoha

As a fervent fan, I must confess that Shikamaru’s reluctance to offer Kawaki sanctuary within Hidden Leaf was already evident, but his hidden malevolence was more of a subtle whisper than an outright scream. Yet, Two Blue Vortex has exposed the sheer depth of his sinister nature. The emergence of the Shinju in Konoha now presents a danger unlike any we’ve faced before – one that cannot be tackled without Naruto. These Shinju clones bear a striking resemblance to the Ten Tails, but with a twist: they are spawned from shinobi who were bitten by Claw Grimes.

winning the trust of the God Tree Clones rather than confronting them forcefully. He suggests that when these clones are least suspicious, Konoha can eliminate them gradually. Shikamaru acknowledges that this plan contradicts Naruto’s beliefs in compassion and mercy, which he typically upholds.

In his absence, I see Shikamaru wielding unquestionable power over the Hidden Leaf Village. His handling of the current threat echoes Danzo Shimura’s approach – a man notorious for his ruthless means to protect our village. Granted, Shikamaru’s tactics pale in comparison to Danzo’s questionable acts, but it does serve as a stark reminder of the depths he might be capable of delving into if necessary. This situation hints at the possibility that Shikamaru could embody the role of a morally ambiguous character, one who is not afraid to employ extreme measures, even those with gruesome consequences.

If you view them as mere enemies, this strategy could work best. Lure them into lowering their defenses, giving you an opportunity for a decisive strike.

Shikamaru’s Path Towards Becoming the Next Danzo

Shikamaru Could Potentially Take On a Much Darker Role

In a surprising twist for fans of the Naruto series, Shikamaru’s new role within Boruto might seem unusual given his past portrayal. Despite aligning with Naruto’s values of kindness and justice at the start of Boruto, Shikamaru didn’t typically show signs of internal darkness in the Naruto series. However, considering his sharp intellect and strategic mind, it makes sense that he would be suited for this role in the storyline.

Moreover, the character type Shikamaru now embodies was essential for the progression of the series following events in Two Blue Vortex. Given Kishimoto’s continued supervision over the entire series and Ikemoto’s writing role in Boruto, it appears that both creators have played a part in shaping Shikamaru’s character arc into this more complex direction.

I propose this tactic… to get rid of these superhuman monsters… for the survival of humankind.

Over time, it becomes clear that Shikamaru’s political views diverge from Naruto’s. While Naruto’s perspectives lean towards idealism, Shikamaru adopts a more rational and pragmatic approach. Although he shares some similarities with Danzo in this regard, the comparison is not complete. The way Shikamaru handles the Shinju issue sparks debate among fans. On one hand, his actions appear logical given that Konoha seems unable to face these new adversaries effectively.

In contrast, the strategy contradicts Naruto’s core values since he would never support betrayal, especially towards beings exhibiting childish behavior. Instead, it seems more in line with his approach to reason with them and guide them towards a better path. However, an important aspect to consider is that if the Shinju isn’t defeated and its bulb not retrieved, those characters swallowed by it cannot be saved, making it necessary to eliminate them. As the manga progresses, Shikamaru may further explore this morally ambiguous position, potentially solidifying his role as a future Danzo Shimura.

Boruto is available to read via Viz Media.

2025-01-15 21:36