Most Polarizing Characters In Naruto

Most Polarizing Characters In Naruto

Highlights

  • Some characters in Naruto, like Tobirama Senju, receive mixed reception due to their extreme views and actions.
  • Hiruzen Sarutobi’s failure to make tough decisions as a leader and guardian to Naruto led to criticism.
  • Obito Uchiha’s redemptive arc was seen as disappointing and forced, receiving mixed reviews from fans.

This text discusses several characters from the Naruto anime and manga series and their disappointing character arcs or portrayals. The first character mentioned is Hiruzen Sarutobi, who was criticized for his failures as Hokage and his lack of action in preventing various tragedies that affected Konoha.


In the intricately woven narrative of Masashi Kishimoto’s “Naruto,” over 200 named characters take on diverse roles. This rich ensemble has sparked contrasting responses from the dedicated fanbase. Predictably, each character encounters criticism, although the extent of unfavorable feedback varies among individuals.

Characters in the world of Naruto are divisive figures, drawing intense reactions from fans regardless of their moral alignment. Some are widely admired for various reasons, while others provoke strong feelings of disdain. A select few even manage to elicit unwavering hatred or love, leaving no room for neutral opinions.

5 Tobirama Senju

Founded Vital Village Institutions But Was Criticized For His Harsh Policies

Most Polarizing Characters In Naruto

Manga Debut

Naruto Chapter #118 “Confinement…!!”

Anime Debut

Naruto Episode #69 “Village in Distress: A New A-Ranked Mission!”

Tobirama, the Second Hokage of Konoha, was recognized for his serious expression and practical outlook on his responsibilities, which stood in stark contrast to the unwavering optimism of his elder brother, Hashirama. Despite this difference in personality, Tobirama’s intellect shone through as a capable leader who significantly contributed to the establishment of Konohagakure as we know it at the beginning of Naruto. He was the mastermind behind the founding of key institutions such as the Academy and the Uchiha Police Force.

In contrast, Tobirama frequently faced criticism from the show’s audience because of his radical stance towards defending the village, particularly against the Uchiha clan members. He held no sympathy for Uchihas affected by the Cursed Seal of Sharingan, believing their actions demonstrated a disregard for the village’s welfare. As a result, Tobirama was perceived as playing a role in the Uchiha clan’s exclusion, which ultimately ended in the tragic Uchiha Clan Massacre.

4 Hiruzen Sarutobi

Embodied The Will Of Fire But Failed As A Leader And Naruto’s Guardian

Most Polarizing Characters In Naruto

Manga Debut

Naruto Chapter #1 “Naruto Uzumaki!!”

Anime Debut

Naruto Episode #1 “Enter: Naruto Uzumaki!”

A remarkable shinobi, known as “The Professor,” Hiruzen Sarutobi excelled in an impressive array of Konoha’s jutsus. He held the esteemed position of Hokage for a significant period in the village’s history, and his unwavering commitment to the Will of Fire left a lasting impact on numerous Hidden Leaf ninja across generations. Symbolizing the wise elder, Hiruzen adopted a balanced leadership style, but this approach sometimes hindered him as an effective leader.

As a gamer, I can rephrase that as follows: I, Hiruzen, have been criticized for my inability to take decisive actions during crucial moments in the village’s history. Danzo’s atrocities went unchecked under my watch, and Orochimaru, who conducted horrific human experiments, managed to slip away from my grasp. Additionally, I failed to prevent the Uchiha clan massacre, which had disastrous consequences for Konoha. Furthermore, despite being entrusted with Naruto’s care by the Fourth Hokage on his deathbed, I didn’t do enough to help him grow up in a stable environment and learn about his heritage.

3 Obito Uchiha

Had A Disappointing Resolution To A Promising Character Arc

Most Polarizing Characters In Naruto

Manga Debut

Naruto Chapter #239 “Side Story 1: Mission Start…!!”

Anime Debut

Naruto Shippuden Episode #32 “Return of the Kazekage”

The transformation of Obito from a hopeful aspirant for the position of Hokage to someone disillusioned with humanity’s capacity for peace was a poignant reflection of war’s harsh realities. At first, his descent into darkness and representation as Naruto’s sinister counterpart elicited diverse reactions from “Naruto” fans, earning Kishimoto accolades and criticisms in equal measure.

Critics have raised concerns about Obito’s reasons for heading the Akatsuki, mainly fueled by his deep-seated rage over Rin Nohara’s demise. Furthermore, the excessive deployment of flashbacks during his rehabilitation storyline, particularly during his dialogues with Naruto, made his transformation appear contrived. This is often cited as one of the most unconvincing instances of “Talk-no-Jutsu” employed in the show.

2 Sasuke Uchiha

His Portrayal As A Conflicted Anti-Villain Became Too Convoluted

Most Polarizing Characters In Naruto

Manga Debut

Naruto Chapter #3 “Sasuke Uchiha!!”

Anime Debut

Naruto Episode #1 “Enter: Naruto Uzumaki!”

When Sasuke first appeared on the scene, I found him to be the complete antithesis of Naruto – dark, brooding, and a stark contrast to Naruto’s boisterous optimism. But as the story unfolded and Sasuke’s character was developed further, I became captivated by his complexity. His transformation into a fan favorite was a natural progression for me as a gamer, watching his story unfold with intrigue and anticipation.

Unfortunately, the negative behaviors exhibited by this character during Part II’s second half undermined the complexity of his morally ambiguous portrayal. His harsh treatment towards Naruto and Sakura intensified this issue. Additionally, the lack of development in his relationship with Sakura left their eventual romance and marriage seemingly implausible.

1 Sakura Haruno

Represents Kishimoto’s Consistent Failure To Write Strong Female Characters

Most Polarizing Characters In Naruto

Manga Debut

Naruto Chapter #3 “Sasuke Uchiha!!”

Anime Debut

Naruto Episode #1 “Enter: Naruto Uzumaki!”

Sakura, a character from anime series, has elicited strong reactions due to the considerable criticism she has received throughout the storyline. Initially, her role was primarily as a love interest, but this changed in Part II, and she acquired substantial power enhancements to compete with Naruto and Sasuke. Sadly, this enhancement did not provide a lasting advantage, and once more, she found herself lagging behind Team 7’s other members.

As a dedicated fan of Naruto, I can’t help but acknowledge the challenges Kishimoto faced when crafting complex and engaging female characters, with Sakura serving as a prime example. From my perspective, some parts of the fandom have felt deeply for Sakura’s unfortunate storyline and her underutilized potential. Conversely, other fans have criticized her character, leading to intense debates and polarizing opinions within the community.

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2024-07-14 04:04