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From the opening moments ofBoruto: Naruto Next Generations, it seemed that the world was heading in a starkly different direction from its predecessor. And, it’s not just us, the series itself made it clear with its subtle hints. When we first heard Kawaki declaring the phrase“The age of shinobi is….. over”in the series’ very first episode, the statement felt ominous, but its full weight was yet to unfold.
Now, asBorutocontinues to develop, this single line appears to be the foundation for Masashi Kishimoto’s bold narrative shift; signaling the decline of traditional ninjutsu and the rise of something far more dangerous. So, how has the era of shinobi actually ended with Boruto standing as the final guardian of a bygone era? Let’s find out!
The rapid power scaling fromNarutotoBoruto
It was evidentfrom the first scenesofBoruto: Naruto Next Generationsthat the world was suddenly changing drastically. In contrast toNaruto‘s heroic and powerful tone, Kawaki’s declaration,“The age of shinobi is…. over”, acted as a terrifying foreshadowing. u/0cTony has shared how this particular phrase has so much weight throughout the entire narrative of theBorutoseries, and it totally makes sense.
TheNarutoseries showcased some of the most jaw-dropping battles in anime history. However, the overwhelming power scaling witnessed in the final arcs ofNaruto Shippudenmade one thing clear: even the strongest shinobi barely managed to defeat god-like threats like Kaguya Otsutsuki and Madara Uchiha.
Before Kaguya’s emergence, Madara effortlessly defeated the Allied Shinobi Forces, and the Kages, and even survived Gai’s Eight Gates. On the other hand, for Kaguya, it took the combined effort of Six Paths Sage Mode Naruto, Sasuke with Eternal Mangekyo Sharingan Rinnegan,Sakura with a perfected Byakugo Seal, Obito, and Dual Mangekyo Sharingan Kakashi to seal Kaguya. Even this victory required the intervention of Hagoromo Otsutsuki, who granted Naruto and Sasuke divine powers.
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These battles inNarutohighlighted that traditional ninjutsu and physical strength alone were no longer viable against such threats. Given this, how could the next generation inBorutohope to stand against foes who far surpass Kaguya and Madara?
Boruto: The Last Shinobi in a Post-Ninja World
However, despite the odds, Boruto’s unique position as the series’ protagonist hints at a thematic shift. Unlike the previous generation, he possesses a combination of abilities that make him an anomaly in the current world. He has mastered techniques such as the Rasengan and Shadow Clone Jutsu, maintaining a connection to his shinobi heritage. In addition to these ninjutsu, he has Dojutsu advantage, Karma seal and potential Shinjutsu abilities.
Thus, when Boruto said,“But I’m still… a shinobi”in response to Kawaki’s statement, it wasn’t just a declaration of identity. It was a mournful acknowledgment that he may be the only one left who embodies what being a shinobi truly means.
As Boruto represents the core of shinobi principles, the rest of the world seems to be moving toward reliance on ninja technology. Characters like Kawaki, who utilize advanced ninja tech, represent the pragmatic but soulless approach to survival in the face of Otsutsuki-level threats. This reliance on technology symbolizes the death of traditional ninja culture and the rise of a new, more mechanical era.
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Thus, by subtly declaring the end of shinobi eraMasashi Kishimotohas challenged the nostalgic attachment fans have to theNarutoseries. As the series progresses, it becomes increasingly clear that Boruto is not just a protagonist, he’s the embodiment of a dying era, fighting to prove that the previous era may have gone, but its spirit lives on through him.
BothNarutoandBorutoare currently available to watch on Crunchyroll.
Moumita Chakraborty
Articles Published :931
Moumita Chakraborty is a seasoned Anime Writer at FandomWire with over 900 published articles. Passionate about the vibrant world of Japanese anime, she brings sharp analytical skills and cultural insight to every piece. From dissecting intricate plotlines to spotlighting the latest trends and releases, Moumita’s work resonates with both casual fans and seasoned otakus. Her writing aims to connect with fellow anime enthusiasts while contributing meaningfully to the ever-growing anime community.
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