Is Sasuke Actually Nerfed in Boruto or Is Isshiki Just Too Strong?

In the Boruto: Naruto Next Generations series, the power scale has significantly increased thanks to the introduction of new characters like Isshiki Otsutsuki. This raises the question of whether characters like Sasuke have been nerfed or if it's simply a reflection of the overwhelming power of the new antagonist.

Power Scaling

The introduction of new characters like Isshiki Otsutsuki raises the power scale considerably. Isshiki is portrayed as an immensely powerful antagonist with abilities that surpass those of even the strongest shinobi from the previous series. His capabilities, such as time manipulation and overwhelming strength, create a context where even strong characters like Sasuke seem less effective.

Narrative Focus

Character Development

Sasuke’s character arc has shifted from being a primary combatant to more of a mentor role. This change in responsibilities has led him to engage in battles that emphasize strategy rather than sheer power. His role is not that of a front-line warrior, but rather a guide and advisor to the next generation of shinobi.

Technology and New Abilities

The series introduces new technologies and abilities that alter the dynamics of battles. For example, the Karma seal gives characters like Kawaki and Boruto unique advantages that can counter traditional shinobi techniques. This further shifts the focus away from raw power and towards strategic prowess.

Summary

Sasuke may seem nerfed compared to his former self, but this is largely due to the overwhelming power of new characters like Isshiki and the narrative direction that emphasizes strategy over brute force. It's important to understand that the form of nerfing in question is not about a physical reduction in power, but rather a change in how these characters are utilized in the story.

Really Nerfed Sasuke Gets Bodied by Borushiki

There is a perception that both Naruto and Sasuke have been nerfed due to the involvement of powerful antagonists. However, the nerfing is not permanent and is more of a contextual shift due to the power of characters like Kodachi. Let's address some points that explain this:

Naruto and Sasuke Still Have SO6P Chakra from Hagoromo

Naruto and Sasuke still have the Senjutsu Potential (SO6P) chakra from Hagoromo. This chakra was a significant advantage in the previous series. While the exact state of their chakra may have changed due to various circumstances, the fundamental power they possess remains. The series has not explicitly shown the full extent of their SO6P chakra, leading to underutilization and a perception of nerfing.

Absence of Full Potential

The full potential of Naruto and Sasuke is often held back by plot considerations, allowing other characters like Boruto to shine. While they have the ability to surpass their younger selves in a confrontation, the narrative of Boruto: Naruto Next Generations does not always showcase this potential.

Isshiki is Overpowered

Isshiki certainly possesses extraordinary abilities, such as time manipulation and overwhelming physical strength. However, this does not necessarily mean that other characters like Naruto and Sasuke are permanently nerfed. Each character has their unique capabilities, and the power balance can shift based on the context of each battle.

Jigen's Fight

The battle against Jigen is a prime example where the characters show underutilization of their abilities. Both Naruto and Sasuke do not fully employ their full arsenal of techniques, which results in a perception of nerfing. For example, Sasuke does not use his Rinnegan or its full potential, holding back and not utilizing abilities that he could have.

Specific Ability Utilization

Some key points:

Rinnegan Abilities: Sasuke underuses his Rinnegan, holding back and not using its full potential. This includes avoiding the Shadow Paralysis and the Shinra Tensei technique. Fly Capabilities: Both Naruto and Sasuke have the ability to fly, but they choose to remain on the ground. This is often due to plot and narrative reasons, rather than a lack of capability. Susanoo: Sasuke does not use the full potential of his Susanoo, which is often weakened in the series due to plot-driven changes.

In conclusion, while Sasuke and Naruto may seem underpowered compared to their potential, it is largely due to narrative and plot-driven decisions. The key is to recognize that their capabilities are not inherently nerfed, but rather are contextual and subject to the story's direction.