Certain characters in Naruto had the potential for much more development but were often sidelined in favor of the main plot. Whether due to their unique abilities.
Gaara
Anime fans are drawn to complex characters with profound character arcs that unfold over hundreds of episodes.
Minato
Few characters in Naruto were as highly anticipated or built up as the Fourth Hokage, Minato. As the long-rumored father of Naruto and the celebrated hero of the Leaf Village,
Shikamaru
Shikamaru Nara is one of the few side characters in anime history to achieve such widespread love and iconic status.
Ino
Ino Yamanaka is often overlooked, but many fans consider her one of the most underrated characters in Naruto.
Yamato
Yamato played a key role in Naruto's growth as a Jinchuriki, using his unique jutsu to control the Nine-Tails. As Naruto's guardian during intense training sessions,
Shino
Shino's debut in the Chunin Exams was one of the most impressive. Leading his team through the Forest of Death, he achieved one of the fastest second exam times in history.
Sakura
Team 7 began with humble origins, but by the end of the story, three of its members—Naruto, Sasuke, and Kakashi—became some of the strongest and most influential ninjas in history.