Top 10 Underrated Characters in _Boruto: Naruto Next Generations_ Deserving More Recognition

The Boruto: Naruto Next Generations series introduced us to a new wave of ninja adventures. Despite its fresh cast and the potential for character growth, the focus often neglects some characters who truly deserve more recognition. This oversight can leave fans yearning for more depth and screen-time for these secondary characters. Let's explore the ten most underrated characters in the Boruto universe and discuss their potential and contributions to the series.

Shikadai Nara's Overshadowed Legacy

Shikadai's Struggle for Identity

Shikadai Nara, the offspring of Shikamaru Nara and Temari, is a strategic and intelligent character who blends his father's Shadow Imitation Technique with his mother's Wind Style jutsu. Despite these talents, Shikadai often finds himself overshadowed by his father's legacy. While he is more integrated into the story due to his close friendship with Boruto, Shikadai's potential hasn't been fully realized in the way that Shikamaru’s was, leaving fans hoping for more from his character arc and development.

Choji Akimichi: Stuck in the Past

Once a hero from the Sasuke Retrieval arc in the original Naruto series, Choji Akimichi sees his role considerably diminished in Boruto. Now mainly playing a supportive role, Choji's ability to stand out is hindered, particularly when considering his unique fighting style. In Boruto, he serves more as a mentor to his daughter, Chocho, than as an active ninja himself, which rather undercuts his potential narrative impact.

Kiba Inuzuka's Tale of Underutilization

Kiba and his trusty companion Akamaru form an incredible duo bound by teamwork and tracking prowess. However, his potential was far greater than the comedic relief role often portrayed in Naruto and Boruto. Despite dreaming of becoming Hokage, his narrative importance remains sidelined, overshadowed by characters like Naruto and Sasuke who take center stage.

Karin Uzumaki: A Missed Opportunity

Karin, another member of the Uzumaki clan, holds significant potential due to her unique abilities like the Mind's Eye of Kagura. However, her character largely remains in the shadow of her infatuation with Sasuke, missing out on exploring her Uzumaki heritage and kinship with Naruto, who is also related to the once-great clan decimated before the events of Naruto.

Sakura Haruno: Undeserved Criticism

Often underrated due to how she was portrayed relative to her team members, Sakura actually possesses formidable medical ninjutsu and strength yet remains chronically underappreciated. Despite having significant moments during the Fourth Great Shinobi War where she proved herself, her character development is often dismissed in favor of the more 'exciting' narratives of her male counterparts.

Kurenai Yuhi: The Genjutsu Specialist

Originally introduced as a genjutsu prodigy, Kurenai was unable to show her skills fully. After her ill-fated battle against Itachi Uchiha, she retreats into a teaching role. Her potential, especially against the backdrop of her unique abilities, deserved more focus before she was largely written out of active shinobi life.

Hinata Hyuga: More Than a Love Interest

Hinata Hyuga is often reduced to being a supportive figure for Naruto's romantic interests. Her status as heir to the Hyuga clan and her internal struggles offered a storyline rich with potential, yet this was glossed over. Quality exploration of her skills and leadership qualities as head of the Hyuga clan would add a much-needed layer of depth to her character.

Shino Aburame: An Unutilized Powerhouse

Despite being a supporting character and one of the few to voice his lack of narrative presence, Shino possesses undeniably powerful bug-related jutsu. His serious nature and capabilities could have provided more substantial narratives within both Naruto and Boruto. His transition into an academy teacher allows for some growth, but the character deserved more active participation.

Tenten: The Weapons Specialist

Tenten suffered arguably the most from underdevelopment. Despite having the unique capability of weapon specialization, her significance dwindled as grander powers overshadowed basic weaponry skills. Her brief moments in action were far too sparse given the potential her character held.

For more insights on these characters and how they fit into the broader Naruto universe, readers can explore sources like the Naruto Wiki for more in-depth character analysis and family histories.

The Boruto universe offers vast opportunities for exploring its rich tapestry of supporting characters. As the series progresses, there remains hope that these unsung heroes will receive the narrative attention they deserve.