In the world of Naruto Shippuden, the Sharingan stands out as one of the most legendary ocular abilities in the ninja universe, uniquely associated with the Uchiha clan. This extraordinary technique provides its bearer with enhanced reflexes, the ability to read movements, and for those who possess the Mangekyo Sharingan, access to even more formidable powers. However, the extensive use of the Sharingan comes at a cost: it requires a significant amount of chakra and can lead to progressive blindness. Throughout the series, several characters have mastered the Sharingan to such an extent that they have become iconic figures. Here, we explore some of the most powerful users of this technique, delving into their abilities and contributions to the storyline.
Itachi Uchiha: The Prodigy of the Uchiha Clan
Itachi Uchiha is perhaps one of the most compelling characters in the Naruto series. He was a child prodigy who awakened the Sharingan at a remarkably young age. With the Mangekyo Sharingan, Itachi acquired the ability to utilize Tsukuyomi, a powerful genjutsu that ensnares the victim’s mind in a distorted illusion, making them experience what feels like days of torment in mere seconds. Additionally, he wielded Amaterasu, which summoned black flames that consumed anything in their path, and Susanoo, a spiritual armor that carried the legendary Totsuka Blade. Despite suffering from illness and physical weakness, Itachi’s mastery of this ocular technique made him one of the most feared ninjas in the series. His tragic story and complex motivations add depth to his character, making him a memorable figure in the Naruto saga.
Obito Uchiha: The Master of Space-Time Ninjutsu
Obito Uchiha’s journey is marked by loss and transformation. After witnessing the death of Rin, he awakened his Mangekyo Sharingan, gaining the unique ability known as Kamui. This space-time jutsu allowed him to make parts of his body intangible or to teleport objects over great distances. Bolstered by Hashirama’s cells, Obito utilized his dojutsu effectively, enabling him to take on multiple opponents simultaneously with relative ease. His actions led to the devastating attack on the Hidden Leaf Village using the Kyuubi and positioned him as a central figure in the Fourth Great Ninja War. Obito’s character arc, which transitions from a hopeful young ninja to a manipulative antagonist, showcases the profound effects of grief and ambition.
Sasuke Uchiha: The Avenger Turned Hero
Following the death of his brother Itachi, Sasuke Uchiha awakened his own Mangekyo Sharingan, gaining access to both Amaterasu and Susanoo. His journey did not end there; after receiving powers from Hagoromo Otsutsuki, he unlocked the Rinnegan, which granted him abilities like Amenotejikara, allowing him to swap places with objects in his vicinity. Sasuke became one of the few characters capable of wielding both the Mangekyo and Rinnegan simultaneously. His diverse arsenal of dojutsu enabled him to confront formidable foes such as Kaguya and Naruto, underscoring his evolution from a vengeful ninja to a key protector of the shinobi world. Sasuke’s story reflects themes of redemption, growth, and the struggle between darkness and light.
Madara Uchiha: The Legendary Shinobi
Madara Uchiha was a pivotal character in the Naruto series, known for being the first to awaken the Eternal Mangekyo Sharingan by transplanting his brother Izuna’s eyes. This gave him unparalleled power, allowing him to control the Kyuubi and envelop it with his Susanoo, creating a nearly invincible weapon. His complete Susanoo was powerful enough to obliterate mountains, proving his might in battle. During the Fourth Great Ninja War, Madara single-handedly defeated the five Kage using only his clones, a testament to his extraordinary skills. He also mastered Izanagi, a genjutsu that alters reality, allowing him to make any injury or death temporary. Madara’s ambition and vision for peace through strength positioned him as one of the most complex antagonists in the series.
Hagoromo Otsutsuki: The Sage of Six Paths
Hagoromo Otsutsuki, often referred to as the Sage of Six Paths, is regarded as the progenitor of ninjutsu and the father of all shinobi. He was the first to awaken both the Mangekyo Sharingan and the Rinnegan, along with mastering the chakra of the Six Paths. His legendary battle against the Juubi led to the creation of the bijuus, and he utilized Susanoo with exceptional skill. Although not an Uchiha by blood, Hagoromo possessed the original power of the Sharingan as Kaguya’s son, establishing the foundation for all ocular abilities in the series. His legacy is crucial to the overarching narrative of Naruto, symbolizing the balance between power and responsibility.
These characters have left an indelible mark on Naruto Shippuden, showcasing that the Sharingan transcends mere visual prowess—it’s a powerful symbol of pain, sacrifice, and strength. Each of these ninjas not only contributed unique abilities to the storyline but also embodied the emotional depth and complex themes that define the series.
Naruto Shippuden aired from 2007 to 2017, representing the second phase of the Naruto anime. In this segment, Naruto returns after two years of rigorous training, embarking on a mission to confront the Akatsuki and rescue Sasuke from Orochimaru’s clutches. As the Akatsuki intensifies its quest for the bijuus, the ninja world faces an unprecedented crisis. The anime consists of 500 episodes, including filler content, and concludes the arcs of beloved characters such as Naruto, Sasuke, Sakura, and Kakashi. Moreover, it lays the groundwork for the direct continuation of the story, Boruto: Naruto Next Generations. Fans can enjoy the entire series of Naruto on Crunchyroll, allowing both new viewers and long-time fans to immerse themselves in this epic tale of ninjas, friendship, and the pursuit of peace.
