I used to think Naruto's Sage Mode was only a cool move, until I realized its true significance

The Naruto series presented a unique concept through Sage Mode. Achieved by only a few of the shinobi in the story, it was a state that allowed Senjutsu Chakra to flow through the user. This Chakra is created through a blend of one's own Chakra with natural energy, but it isn't as simple as it sounds, which is why only a few shinobi were able to use it.

This could also be a reason why it was used less in the series. A major battle featuring the use of Sage Mode was when Naruto took on Pain. But after that, it was used sparingly, and the blonde unlocked and transitioned into using his Tailed Beast and later Six Paths Mode. However, Sage Mode was not only captivating but significant too.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the writer's opinion.

Naruto: Sage Mode wasn't only captivating, but significant too

Naruto Uzumaki in Sage Mode (Image via Studio Pierrot)

As a brief refresher, Sage Mode allows the user to blend his/her own Chakra with natural energy. Apart from greatly enhanced physical stats, the user gains access to Senjutsu. This permits them use of new techniques and amplifies their existing ones. However, it came with certain disadvantages like the user needing to remain absolutely still to assimilate this Chakra, and it couldn't be replenished mid-battle.

The technique's users found creative ways to bypass this disadvantage. The blonde used his clones to accumulate natural energy for himself, and later on, through Kurama within him, Jiraiya allowed toads to fuse with his shoulders and have them gather natural energy, while Kabuto assimilated Jugo's DNA to recreate his clan's ability to passively absorb natural energy.

These are examples of immense creativity being added to the series. Sage Mode presented specific requirements, and each was met by different individuals differently. In fact, the manner in which each character dealt with them was unique to their character— Naruto heavily relied on his clones, Kabuto resorted to his vast scientific knowledge, and Jiraiya leveraged his affinity with the toads.

All in all, the Naruto franchise's Sage Mode felt organic and something that wasn't easily attainable by all. It was one of the series' aspects that displayed that hard work in training yielded results. As per series lore, the more one trained with Sage Mode, the better he/she got at controlling it. Again, through training, the time to collect natural energy and stay in Sage Mode, both could be extended.

So, in essence, it was with good reason that only a handful of characters could use it. Sage Mode wasn't as simple to control and required a fair bit of training to actually be usable. In comparison, Naruto's Tailed Beast Mode or even the Six Paths Mode felt quite straightforward with little limitation. It seemed specific only to the blonde, despite someone like Killer Bee sharing the same bond with Gyuki.

To put it plainly, looking back on Sage Mode in the present scenario, the series could have likely benefited more from its inclusion. While it was showcased as an immensely powerful technique, it wasn't delved into enough, as the Tailed Beast or Six Paths Modes were. Again, the technique, having strict requirements, is what made it compelling and convincing as a weapon.

In conclusion

Naruto's Sage Mode is quite a well-thought-out concept and one that requires discipline to grasp. Unlike the blonde's other transformations, which were unlocked through Kurama and Hagoromo, Sage Mode could only be attained through perseverance, intelligence, and adaptability.

It stressed the importance of taking control of one's environment and self-aspects that were heavily linked to the series' themes of personal growth and hard work.

However, it being MIA in later arcs felt like a missed opportunity, more so given the creativity it brought out in the characters who used it. Each wielder’s method of attaining and maintaining Sage Mode reflected their individuality.

The story may have just lost an element that felt grounded and hard-earned by sidelining Sage Mode. Expanding more on Sage Mode could have done a lot for the series' strategy element and explained that strength is not just inherited, it is honed, too.

Related links:

About the author

Casey has been an anime writer at Sportskeeda since almost a year. Being drawn into the world of animanga after watching the Dragon Ball series almost a decade ago, Casey's interest in the genre, along with his love of crafting plot theories influenced his writerly endeavors. Presently pursuing a Master's degree in International Business, Casey worked for Uneake and FootballExpress for 1.3 years before joining Sportskeeda.

Casey's writings reflect his commitment to producing the most reliable content, evidenced by his flair for in-depth reporting. He places a high value on meticulous research and complete factual accuracy.

Although it was legendary Akira Toriyama’s magnum opus that influenced his love of animanga, Casey soon branched out and explored other titles. The unique ways in which mangakas express ideas, as well as their far-reaching effects, have inspired Casey in his creative pursuits.

When not busy writing, Casey enjoys working out, listening to music, strumming the guitar, and playing football.

Know More

Edited by Casey Mendez