When Masashi Kishimoto began writing Naruto Shippuden , he gave each ninja a unique story. Beyond Naruto Uzumaki , the hero with exceptional potential and strength, there are many characters with extraordinary abilities. The world of shinobi is woven with complex alliances and ancestral rivalries, often rooted in the history of clans. What makes Naruto such a captivating shōnen is this diversity of personalities that are revealed throughout the adventure.
Cartoon Toi , invites you to discover the most emblematic characters of the series with more than 700 episodes. We will highlight the ninjas who often remained in the shadow of our legendary hero, but who deserve your attention. And because everyone has their favorite, we have prepared a quiz to discover which Naruto character you are most like.
The main characters
Naruto Uzumaki: From Outcast to Hokage
Naruto Uzumaki is no ordinary hero. At birth, he inherits a heavy burden: the nine-tailed demon fox Bijû (Kyuubi) is sealed inside him. This leads to rejection by the other inhabitants of Konoha, his village. Orphaned, he grew up isolated from a young age, without family support and faced with general incomprehension. Despite this, he is driven by an immense hope, that of becoming Hokage. He dreams of reaching this summit not only to prove his worth, but also to gain the respect and affection of his village.
From the beginning of his training at the Ninja Academy , we immediately see that Naruto is not like the others. Full of energy and always smiling, he hides a real strength of character and a big heart. Being part of the 5 Kage is more than a dream for him. He puts everything he has into this ambition, wanting to prove his worth to those who did not believe in him.
He faces enormous challenges, especially because of the fox demon , Kyuubi , that he carries within him. But even when it seems impossible, the shinobi does not give up. In his fights, such as against Neji in the Chunin exam, he proves that he does not give up easily. Then, his quest to bring back Sasuke and his learning of the Rasengan reveal a ninja determined to overcome his past.
Naruto is not just a fighter; he is a born leader who transforms his experiences and failures into strength. His friendship with the latter, full of ups and downs, shows us the importance of fighting for those we love, of knowing how to forgive and of overcoming rivalries.
Throughout the arcs, he evolves from a boisterous and lonely child to a leader capable of rallying entire nations against common threats, such as during the Fourth Ninja World War . His journey is marked by acts of exceptional courage, sacrifice, and valuable lessons about overcoming hardship and the importance of following one's dreams.
Sasuke Uchiha: Shadows and Light
Sasuke Uchiha , the last survivor of the Uchiha clan , is haunted by the murder of his family by his brother Itachi. Determined to exact revenge, he goes on a solitary quest for vengeance , testing his friendship with Naruto and Sakura . Despite his cold and calculating exterior, Sasuke is deeply tormented by his past. The discovery of Itachi 's true intentions calls into question his motives for vengeance, forcing him to reconsider his goals and relationships.
His transformation is marked by his relationship with his friend, Naruto . This rivalry , tinged with mutual admiration and deep conflicts, is crucial to his evolution. Their final fight at the Valley of the End shows their disagreements but also the strong friendship that binds them.
Ultimately, Sasuke goes from wanting revenge to seeking redemption . After the war, he wants to know what it truly means to be strong and what he should do as a ninja . His journey takes him from the shadows to the light , showing that he can reflect on himself and change.
Sakura Haruno: Strength and Healing
Sakura Haruno is a young kunoichi full of doubts, often withdrawn, walking in the shadow of her companions, Naruto and Sasuke . Her feelings for the latter initially hide her strength. But over the course of the series, she emerges as one of the strongest and most determined ninjas of her generation.
Under the guidance of Tsunade , one of the legendary Sannin , Sakura transforms, gaining mastery in ninja medicine and notable strength . This development not only shows her true strength but also her determination to no longer be a burden to her friends. She becomes essential to many missions and battles, proving that she can hold her own against powerful opponents and play a crucial role in healing her allies.
She shines with her emotional strength . Her enduring love for Sasuke and her strong friendship with Naruto are testaments to her loyalty and commitment . Her ability to maintain hope and fight for those close to her complements her fighting skills admirably.
Kakashi Hatake: The Big-Hearted Copycat Ninja
Kakashi Hatake , with his stolen Sharingan eye and legendary calm, is one of the most iconic characters. His nickname, the Copy Ninja , comes from his ability to mimic almost any technique of his opponents, a skill that makes him one of the most feared and respected ninja in Konoha . But behind his mask and detached appearance lies a tormented past and a deeply caring heart.
Kakashi is orphaned by the suicide of his father, Sakumo Hatake , an event that deeply affects him. But the lessons and values of his father will mark him forever. Later, he grows up under the tutelage of emblematic figures like Minato Namikaze , the Fourth Hokage . These experiences shape his values, despite the weight of personal trials, such as the tragic loss of his teammates Obito Uchiha and Rin Nohara .
As a Genin and leader of Team 7 , Kakashi teaches Naruto , Sasuke , and Sakura more than just techniques. He teaches them the importance of teamwork, sacrifice, and protecting their loved ones. His evolution from distant mentor to father figure makes him a very inspiring character.
Allied Characters
Shikamaru Nara: The Strategic Mind
Shikamaru Nara is a member of the Nara clan , known for his intelligence and excellent strategies, even if he is sometimes lazy. With an IQ of over 200 , he is able to predict enemy movements in advance, making him a respected leader but above all one of Naruto's most important allies.
His friendship with Choji and his role in Team 10 highlight his humanity and responsibility. Shikamaru represents quiet strength, proving that intelligence and strategy matter as much as strength.
Hinata Hyuga: Love and Determination
Hinata Hyuga embodies evolution through love and perseverance. Initially shy , she secretly admires Naruto and then overcomes her father's doubts. Her Byakugan gives her unique vision and the ability to perceive beyond surfaces. But it is above all her inner strength that defines her.
She transforms from timid to fierce warrior , playing a key role against opponents like Pain , where her courage and love for Naruto are fully demonstrated. She goes from reserved to valiant, exemplifying the power of heart and will.
Desert Gaara: From Monster to Kazekage
Gaara also begins with a demon inside him, the Shukaku , which causes him to be rejected by his village, Suna . This loneliness initially pushes him towards violence, until he meets Naruto. This friendship teaches him that he can change and use his power to protect others .
Gaara goes from being an enemy to an important ally of Naruto , becoming Kazekage and a leader who works for peace. His relationship with Naruto, based on a shared experience of pain and rejection, plays a key role in his transformation. Gaara shows that redemption is possible and becomes a key protector, contributing significantly to the Fourth Ninja World War and the Kage Council .
The antagonists
Akatsuki: The Dark Force
The Akatsuki is a criminal organization composed of renegade ninja , with the initial goal of capturing all Jinchuriki to exploit their power. Under various motivations, its members seek peace, power, or redemption. They are easily identifiable by their iconic black cloak adorned with red clouds .
Itachi Uchiha: The Hidden Sacrifice
Itachi is known for the extermination of his clan , sparing only his brother Sasuke . As a member of the Anbu and wielder of the Sharingan , his reputation as a traitor fuels Sasuke's vengeance. Itachi later joins the criminal organization Akatsuki , reinforcing his image as an enemy.
However, as the episodes progress, it becomes clear that he was acting under secret orders, aimed at preventing a coup against Konoha and protecting Sasuke. His actions were actually guided by a desire for peace. Despite his affiliations, his ultimate goal was the safety of his village and the well-being of his brother.
Obito Uchiha: Betrayal and Redemption
Presumed dead, Obito reappears under the identity of Tobi , secretly orchestrating the actions of the Akatsuki . For example, he can be credited with the Kyuubi attacking Konoha, to carry out his plan for the Eye of the Moon . He sought in particular to plunge the world into an illusion in order to end conflicts.
His transformation from wounded hero to war instigator underscores the tragedy of his character, torn between memories of his past and his desire to create a world of peace...even at the cost of destructive methods .
Pain / Nagato: The Quest for Justice
Pain , also known as Nagato , is a key character, symbolizing suffering in the world. Leading the Akatsuki , he seeks to stop wars by imposing peace through fear, thanks to his god-like powers obtained from the Rinnegan , which allow him to control life and death.
When he attacks the village of Konoha , he introduces the idea that shared suffering can lead to greater mutual understanding. His final decision to trust Naruto and his quest for peace emphasizes the ability to redeem oneself and the importance of forgiveness. It shows that even the greatest antagonists can choose a path of peace .
Orochimaru: The Quest for Immortality
Orochimaru is the main antagonist of the first chapter of Naruto , known for his quest for immortality and forbidden knowledge. Once a respected member of the Konoha Sannin , he deviates from the normal path to explore reincarnation . His thirst to understand all the mysteries of the ninja world leads him to controversial actions, such as experimenting on humans.
Orochimaru is a true genius . He wants to acquire absolute power, going so far as to want to seize the bodies of other characters to extend his life and master many techniques. Despite his harmful actions, his role evolves chapter after chapter. His influence on his disciples will mark the series, showing that his impact goes far beyond his simple presence.
Madara Uchiha: The All-Consuming Ambition
Madara Uchiha is a legendary character, with boundless ambition and unmatched power. Founder of the Uchiha , he is the one who gave the name Konoha to the main village of the anime. His quest for peace turns into a desire for domination, convinced that only total power can end ninja conflicts. An expert in the Sharingan and Rinnegan , he is seen as one of the most powerful ninjas of his time.
His fight against Hashirama Senju , a friend turned rival, marks the beginning of a historic feud. Madara, unsatisfied with a peace that is not his own, orchestrates a plan that includes his resurrection, the use of the White Zetsu army , and the awakening of the God Tree to create a global illusion.
Madara profoundly changes the world, leading to the Fourth Ninja World War . His impact and ideas influence history long after his death, making him one of Naruto's greatest antagonists.
Clans and their heritages
The Uchiha Clan: A Tragic Destiny
The Uchiha clan is known for their Sharingan , a hereditary gift ( Kekkei Genkai ) that allows them to copy opponents' techniques, predict their movements, and create powerful illusions ( genjutsu ). While advantaged, they are marked by a curse of hatred , a consequence of deep affection and equally deep loss.
Figures like Madara and Sasuke Uchiha are driven by this curse in their respective quests for power and revenge . The tragedy of Itachi , who killed his clan to prevent a coup, leaving only his brother Sasuke alive, underscores this curse. The fate of the Uchiha illustrates how love and loss can breed a perpetual cycle of pain and conflict .
The Senju Clan: The Pillars of Konoha
Unlike the Uchiha, the Senju clan , led by Hashirama Senju, the First Hokage , is more committed to peace. The Senju, with their philosophy of unity and brotherhood, aspire to create a world where children would not have to go into battle.
Hashirama, with the support of his brother Tobirama, the Second Hokage , will also create one of the most important ninja villages. Indeed, their rivalry with the Uchiha leads to the founding of Konoha , marking a historic effort to overcome hatred and forge a promising future.
The Otsutsuki Clan: The Architects of Chakra
The Ōtsutsuki clan occupies a central place in the Naruto manga , introducing the mythology behind chakra . Originating from a distant dimension, the members travel across worlds to harvest the energy of the divine trees , essential to their survival.
Kaguya Ōtsutsuki , the ancestor of most ninja powers on Earth, is the first to consume the fruit of the divine tree, thus establishing chakra in humanity. The interventions of the Ōtsutsuki, notably through antagonists like Momoshiki and Kinshiki , reveal their crucial role in the evolution of the ninja world and the perpetual quest for power.
The 5 Kage
The Kage are the leaders of the 5 largest villages , each bearing the title specific to their village. They are considered the strongest and wisest ninjas of their community, responsible for protecting the inhabitants . These emblematic figures play a crucial role in politics, diplomacy, especially in times of conflict.
Hokage of Konoha
The Hokage is the leader of the Hidden Leaf Village , considered the strongest and wisest ninja. Hiruzen Sarutobi , the Third Hokage, Minato Namikaze , the Fourth Hokage, and of course, Naruto Uzumaki , the Seventh Hokage, are among the most respected figures to hold this title.
Kazekage of Suna
The Kazekage rules over the Hidden Sand Village . This title has been held by exceptional shinobi such as young Gaara , who, despite a tumultuous start to life as a Jinchūriki , became a beloved and respected leader, advocating unity and cooperation with the other villages.
Raikage of Kumo
The Raikage is the leader of the Hidden Cloud Village . Characterized by their impressive physical strength, Raikages, such as A , the Fourth Raikage, are renowned for their combative temperament and determination to protect Kumogakure at all costs, favoring strength and speed.
Mizukage of Kiri
The Mizukage leads the Hidden Mist Village . Mei Terumi , the Fifth Mizukage, is known for her determination to dispel Kirigakure 's bloody reputation and promote peace. Her strength in battle and leadership were essential during the Fourth Great War .
Tsuchikage of Iwa
The Tsuchikage governs the Hidden Rock Village . Ōnoki , the Third Tsuchikage, is renowned for his ability to use the Lightness and Gravity technique , reflecting Iwagakure 's resilience and ingenuity. Despite his advanced age, his wisdom and power remain unchallenged.
Secondary characters
Tenten
A weapons specialist, Tenten is a pillar of Team Guy , demonstrating the importance of technical mastery and determination. Her unique expertise in weaponry and constant quest for improvement exemplify the diversity of ninja skills.
Kiba Inuzuka and Akamaru
Embodying the union between man and his canine best friend, this duo illustrates the power of cooperation and the unbreakable bond between partners. Their synergy in combat, combining tracking and attack techniques, underlines the importance of complementary skills.
Shino Aburame
With his unflappable calm and mastery of insects, Shino brings a unique perspective on quiet strength and strategic intelligence. He represents the power of the unseen and unexpected, proving that unconventional methods can be devastating.
Ino Yamanaka
A member of the Ino-Shika-Cho trio, Ino Yamanaka specializes in mind-affecting jutsu . From a love rival to a medical ninja and essential communicator, her transformation illustrates personal growth beyond initial rivalries.
Asuma Sarutobi
As a Jonin and mentor to Team 10 , Asuma plays a crucial role in the development of Shikamaru, Choji, and Ino. His teaching and ultimate sacrifice highlight the vital role a mentor plays in the training of young shinobi.
Neji Hyuga
Neji defies his preordained destiny in the Hyuga clan and becomes an exceptional ninja, proving that limits can be overcome by willpower. His evolution encourages Naruto and his companions to reconsider their own destinies. He is a model of determination!
The iconic duos
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Naruto and Sasuke : The most iconic duo of shōnen, symbolizing the duality between light and darkness. Their relationship, made of rivalry and deep friendship, is the central pillar around which the story revolves, illustrating the quest for recognition and the inner struggle.
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Naruto and Kurama : An unexpected alliance between the hero and Kurama (Kyubi), the nine-tailed demon fox sealed within him. Initially adversaries, their relationship evolves into a powerful partnership, demonstrating the importance of acceptance and mutual understanding.
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Sakura and Tsunade : A mentorship that transcends the transmission of medical skills to embrace feminine strength and determination. Sakura, under Tsunade's wing, becomes a top-notch medical ninja, reflecting resilience and the power to change one's destiny.
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Shikamaru and Choji : Friends since childhood, their bond is built on unwavering trust and loyalty. This duo perfectly illustrates the importance of true friendship, where the strengths of one compensate for the weaknesses of the other, creating an unwavering synergy.
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Kakashi and Obito : Their story is a tragedy that highlights the consequences of choices and beliefs. Obito's loss acts as a catalyst for change for Kakashi, guiding his principles and future development.
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Jiraiya and Naruto : A mentor-student relationship that goes beyond teachings to touch on the philosophy of life and dreams. Jiraiya inspires Naruto not only in his techniques but also in his quest for peace, deeply marking his vision of the world.
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Gaara and Naruto : Two individuals marked by loneliness and suffering, their meeting and mutual evolution demonstrate the power of compassion and empathy. Their friendship is born from their similar experiences as Jinchuriki, revealing how understanding and support can transform pain into hope.
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Itachi and Sasuke : A tragic duo where brotherly love and duty collide, shaping Sasuke's destiny. The revelation of Itachi's true motivations upends Sasuke's quest for revenge, shedding light on the sacrifices hidden behind difficult choices.
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Rock Lee and Might Guy : This master-student duo exemplifies perseverance in the face of adversity. With their dedication to taijutsu, Guy teaches Lee the importance of determination and hard work, proving that physical limitations do not define a ninja's potential.
