Understanding Why Kabuto Did Not Use Edo Tensei on Guren in Naruto

In the Naruto series, the Edo Tensei technique plays a critical role in the Fourth Great Ninja War. However, Kabuto Yakushi never used Edo Tensei on Guren, a character integral to the storyline. This article delves into the strategic, narrative, and technical reasons behind this decision.

Strategic Choices in Utilizing Edo Tensei

Factors behind the choice: Kabuto Yakushi had specific strategic goals when using the Edo Tensei technique. He aimed to summon powerful and strategically significant ninja to bolster his forces. Guren, while powerful, might not have fit into his plans as effectively as other characters he chose to resurrect. This strategic choice allowed Kabuto to focus on characters who provided the most substantial contributions to the war effort.

Character Relevance and Personal Objectives

Impact on the story: Kabuto’s personal objectives, driven by his ambitions to create a powerful army, further shaped his choices. He focused on characters with notable combat experience and who could contribute to the war effort in a more substantial way. By excluding Guren, Kabuto could concentrate on developing and utilizing other characters who were more suitable for his war strategy.

Plot Considerations and Character Development

Storytelling focus: From a narrative perspective, excluding Guren from the Edo Tensei roster allowed for more focused character development and conflict. The presence of other chosen characters created a more engaging and dynamic storyline. Moreover, Guren’s absence strategic prioritization enabled more impactful interactions with the other revivified characters, enhancing the overall narrative experience.

Tech-Related Limitations

Technical constraints: There were also technical limitations that played a role in not summons Guren through Edo Tensei. Edo Tensei requires the slightest DNA match to work, and in the case of Shisui Uchiha, the DNA of Guren could not be found. It is possible that Guren or Yukimaru might have sealed themselves, which would prevent Kabuto from using the technique on them. This technical aspect further explains why the Hokages were never revived by Kabuto, as they were sealed, and Orochimaru required the Shinigami Mask to perform the ritual.

End of the Series and Guren's Fate

Series conclusion: Towards the end of the series, it is evident that both Guren and Yukimaru were seen together at the gates of Konoha. This visual suggests that Guren was not resurrected via Edo Tensei and was still alive, which is consistent with the storyline:

1. Developing character arcs without Edo Tensei can lead to more complex and emotionally resonant storylines.

2. Technical limitations in the usage of Edo Tensei necessitated strategic choices in who was resurrected.

3. Narrative choices enhance the overall impact and engagement of the story.

Understanding these elements provides insight into Kabuto’s strategic decisions and the intricate plot of the Fourth Great Ninja War in Naruto.