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The design of adult Naruto inBoruto: Naruto Next Generationshas long been a topic of intense debate among fans. Many argue that Naruto’s adult form lacks the wildness or fierceness that one would expect, especially when considering how most Shonen protagonists tend to evolve with age. However, the same can’t be said about Ichigo Kurosaki fromBleach.
Tite Kubo ensured that Ichigo’s adult version maintained the core aspects of his personality while evolving his appearance in a way that resonated with fans. This disparity between Kubo’s depiction of Ichigo and Mikio Ikemoto’s latest design of Naruto has drawn a lot of criticism. It’s clear that Kishimoto has no justification for Naruto’s disappointing evolution if Kubo could effectively transform Ichigo into a fierce adult character.
Naruto’s Controversial Adult Design inBoruto
Fans were excited to see how Naruto and other characters would change as adults in terms of appearance and personality when the news ofBoruto: Naruto Next Generationwas revealed. But the reality fell short of expectations. Naruto’s adult design is so bland and uninspiring that it bears no similarity to his teenage version at all.
His short, cropped hair,almost robotic facial features, plain Hokage robes, and general lack of physical presence are far from what fans envisioned for a character who, as a teenager, possessed a relentless spirit and a rough, unrefined charm. Not only that, the design of Naruto byMikio Ikemotoalso looks older than his actual age.
The majority of Shonen protagonists age in a predictable but pleasing way, developing stronger physiques, more defined facial features, and a presence of greater strength or wisdom. However, Naruto looks way too tired, weary, and disconnected from the fighting spirit that once made him the “Number One Hyperactive, Knuckleheaded Ninja”.
Tite Kubo Broke the Most Important Rule of Shonen for Bleach After Giving One Quality to Ichigo that Neither Naruto nor Goku Have
This shift has led many fans to criticizeMasashi Kishimotofor not putting enough thought into Naruto’s adult appearance. It feels as though the creator abandoned the very essence of Naruto’s character by giving him an adult form that doesn’t align with the image he built over the years.
Tite Kubo’s Success with Ichigo’s Design inBleach
Compared to Naruto,Tite Kubo‘s treatment of Ichigo Kurosaki inBleachexemplifies how to craft a visually compelling and character-appropriate adult form. Ichigo’s appearance as an adult reflects his struggles and personal development.
He has a more imposing build, more defined facial features, and an air of someone who has been in many life-or-death circumstances and has come out stronger. However, Ichigo still has the fierce aura that characterized him as a teenager despite his grown-up status. He has obviously matured, as seen by his hairstyle, and commanding posture, but he hasn’t lost the very essence that made him iconic in the originalBleachseries.
dilf ichigo is truly a sexy man idgaf about all the ugly propagandapic.twitter.com/BRyHrM3v7B
nobody will ever convince me that hes ugly as an adult. NO ONE!!!!
this is his best onepic.twitter.com/m9jfv9twWn
The only mc to get a short hair cut and survive it
For real some are saying Naruto hair better than ichigo but ichigo got the whole package he looks good head to toe 😭💖💖💖
Kubo managed to strike a balance between evolution and consistency, allowing Ichigo to grow up without sacrificing the traits that fans loved about him. This success leaves us wondering why Kishimoto couldn’t do the same for Naruto.
Tite Kubo Used the Oldest Trick in the Book to Achieve the One Thing That Makes Bleach Far Superior to Naruto
In the end, Masashi Kishimoto’s failure to evolve Naruto into a visually compelling adult character represents a missed opportunity. What we got was a Hokage that felt more like a shadow of his former self, and for that, Kishimoto and Ikemoto had no excuses. Fans will continue to look at Ichigo and wonder what could have been for Naruto had Ikemoto followed a similar path in honoring Kishimoto’s character’s legacy.
Naruto,Boruto, andBleachare currently available to read on Viz Media.
Moumita Chakraborty
Articles Published :931
Moumita Chakraborty is a seasoned Anime Writer at FandomWire with over 900 published articles. Passionate about the vibrant world of Japanese anime, she brings sharp analytical skills and cultural insight to every piece. From dissecting intricate plotlines to spotlighting the latest trends and releases, Moumita’s work resonates with both casual fans and seasoned otakus. Her writing aims to connect with fellow anime enthusiasts while contributing meaningfully to the ever-growing anime community.
