The Impact of Kakashi Hatake in the Naruto Series
Kakashi Hatake stands out as one of the most memorable figures in the Naruto franchise. His calm demeanor, often perceived as aloofness, contrasts sharply with his profound capabilities as a strategist and formidable fighter when faced with real threats. As a master of the Sharingan and a versatile user of various jutsu styles, Kakashi has been at the center of many pivotal battles that have shaped the narrative of the series.
The Reunion of Team 7 Against Kaguya Otsutsuki
In the climactic arc of the Fourth Great Ninja War, Kakashi reunites with Naruto, Sakura, and Sasuke to confront the formidable deity Kaguya Otsutsuki. While he may not dominate the battlefield during most of the confrontation, his significance becomes apparent when Obito grants him temporary access to both Sharingans. This newfound power allows Kakashi to summon a complete Susanoo, catching the team off guard with his innovative techniques, such as Kamui Shuriken, which he employs to support his comrades effectively.
Though he may not take center stage, Kakashi’s strategic insights and his proud gaze as he watches Team 7 seal Kaguya add a deeply emotional note to the series’ conclusion. His role underscores the importance of teamwork and the bonds formed throughout their journey.
The First Bell Test for Team 7
At the beginning of the series, Kakashi introduces the iconic Bell Test to assess Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura’s ability to work as a cohesive unit. The challenge aims to evaluate the newly formed genin’s teamwork, but it turns out to be a tough lesson. Each member initially tries to act independently, which leads to Kakashi easily outmaneuvering them.
However, when the team decides to defy the rule of not feeding Naruto—despite the consequences—it impresses Kakashi. This moment becomes a defining point for Team 7, solidifying their bond and setting the stage for their future growth as a unit.
Confrontation with Kakuzu Alongside Teams 7 and 10
In the "Akatsuki Suppression Mission" arc, Kakashi faces Kakuzu, one of the organization’s most dangerous members. Following the tragic death of Asuma, the battle takes on a personal dimension for Kakashi. Demonstrating tactical intelligence, he navigates the complexities of Kakuzu’s multiple hearts during the fight.
Even though Naruto ultimately delivers the finishing blow with his Rasenshuriken, Kakashi’s contributions are vital for maintaining the upper hand and ensuring the safety of his teammates. His strategic prowess in this encounter reinforces the importance of collaboration in overcoming formidable foes.
The Desperate Battle Against Pain
During Pain’s attack on Konoha, Kakashi faces one of the Six Paths of Pain with immense bravery. Despite being outmatched in power, he fights valiantly until he suffers fatal injuries in battle. His demise serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of the enemy’s offensive.
Fortunately, after Naruto persuades Nagato to reconsider his approach, Kakashi is revived. His return symbolizes resilience and courage, highlighting his significance in the ongoing struggle against overwhelming odds.
The Second Bell Test with Naruto and Sakura
In Naruto Shippuden, following Naruto’s return to the village, Kakashi decides to re-administer the Bell Test to evaluate Team 7’s progress. This time, both Naruto and Sakura showcase their mastery of advanced techniques, pushing Kakashi to exert himself more than he anticipated.
A particularly humorous moment occurs when they threaten to reveal spoilers from one of Kakashi’s favorite romance novels, distracting him and allowing them to snatch the bells. This scene not only illustrates the characters’ growth but also emphasizes the deepening emotional connections between them.
The Traumatic Encounter with Itachi Uchiha
When Itachi Uchiha reappears after defecting from the village, Kakashi, along with Asuma and Kurenai, attempts to confront him. However, he quickly finds himself at a disadvantage against Itachi’s Tsukuyomi, a genjutsu that subjects him to severe psychological torment.
This encounter starkly highlights the gap in power between Itachi and the other ninjas of that era, showcasing the real danger that his presence poses. It serves as a critical lesson in the series about the threats that exist within the ninja world.
The Climax Against Zabuza Momochi
During the mission in the Land of Waves, Kakashi and Team 7 confront Zabuza, one of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist. Caught in Zabuza’s Water Prison Technique, Kakashi’s rescue comes from Naruto and Sasuke, who manage to break him free.
Following his release, Kakashi takes control of the battle, coming close to defeating Zabuza until Haku intervenes. This fight marks a pivotal moment in the series, introducing a more serious tone and showcasing Team 7’s potential under Kakashi’s leadership.
The Emotional Duel with Obito Uchiha
One of the most dramatic moments of the Fourth Ninja War is the battle between Kakashi and Obito in the Kamui dimension. The fight shifts between their younger and adult selves, reflecting the painful past and tragic present of two friends who took diverging paths.
When Kakashi strikes Obito with his Raikiri, he hesitates at the critical moment, unable to deliver a final blow. The revelation that Obito yearned to resurrect the trauma of Rin’s death adds an emotional weight to the confrontation, making it one of the most profound battles in the entire series.
Naruto Shippuden’s Legacy
Naruto Shippuden aired from 2007 to 2017, covering the second phase of the anime. During this time, Naruto returns after two years of rigorous training, tasked with combating the Akatsuki and rescuing Sasuke from Orochimaru’s clutches. Meanwhile, the Akatsuki intensifies its pursuit of the Tailed Beasts, thrusting the ninja world into an unprecedented crisis.
The anime consists of a total of 500 episodes, including fillers, and concludes the stories of Naruto, Sasuke, Sakura, and Kakashi. Additionally, it sets the stage for the direct continuation of the narrative, further enriching the universe established in the original series.
For fans eager to revisit the series, Naruto is available for streaming on Crunchyroll. The adventures and challenges faced by these beloved characters continue to resonate with audiences around the world, solidifying Naruto’s place in anime history.
