The Baryon mode in Naruto, with its various transformations and power-ups, has been a topic of debate among fans. While some may appreciate the emotional weight of Naruto losing Kurama forever, many feel that the design did not live up to the iconic status of this pivotal scene.
This is unfortunate considering the connection that anime and manga fans have developed with Naruto and Kurama throughout the years. The portrayal of the Baryon mode in this manner diminishes the impact of this significant moment for the franchise's protagonist. It is regrettable that the individuals responsible did not provide a more fitting design.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for Naruto and Boruto and the opinion stated here is the author's and not a reflection of Our Website's.
Naruto's Baryon Mode doesn't have a very flattering design
The Baryon Mode, chosen by Naruto as a final plan in Boruto, was expected to be an epic moment depicting the sacrifice of one of shonen's most iconic protagonists, severing his bond with Kurama to protect all. However, the impact of this transformation was undermined by its design, hindering its emotional resonance.
The Baryon Mode's appeal wasn't just in its functionality, but also its aesthetics, which failed to captivate many fans. As a result, it was often compared to the character's various transformations in the original series, with the Sage Mode remaining a fan favorite due to its context and straightforward yet impactful design.
The Sage Mode's effectiveness lay in its simplicity, showcasing Naruto's growth as a ninja and his assimilation of knowledge from Jiraiya. It was the first instance where Naruto received a power-up without relying on Kurama, allowing for significant character development.
Furthermore, this transformation had its peak during the fight against Pain, which is widely regarded as one of the franchise's absolute peaks.
The importance of a good design
Sage Mode (Image via Studio Pierrot).
The importance of character designs in a transformation cannot be overstated, as they can either enhance or hinder the overall impact. Tite Kubo, the brilliant mind behind Bleach, excels in creating visually stunning transformations in shonen manga. One such example is Ichigo Kurosaki's various forms, like the awe-inspiring Vasto Lorde or the ultimate Getsuga Tensho, which captivate the readers with their remarkable aesthetic appeal.
The Baryon Mode goes against the norm and, to some extent, undermines what could have been an iconic moment in the Boruto franchise. Despite having its own fanbase, there's no denying the divisive opinions surrounding this transformation over the years.
Furthermore, its association with the widely beloved Sage Mode, thanks to the Pain arc, doesn't do it any favors. Ultimately, a combination of factors makes this transformation seem more like an afterthought rather than a triumphant highlight for the character and the series.
Final thoughts
The Baryon Mode's design has always sparked debate within the fandom. However, it serves as a visual representation of Naruto's remarkable growth throughout the series. Examining it from this perspective allows us to appreciate the character's development over time.
Editor's P/S
As a long-time fan of the Naruto series, I have mixed feelings about the Baryon Mode. On the one hand, I appreciate the emotional weight of Naruto losing Kurama forever, and I think the design is visually striking. On the other hand, I feel that the Baryon Mode does not live up to the iconic status of Sage Mode.
Sage Mode was Naruto's first major power-up, and it had a profound impact on the series. It allowed Naruto to fight on par with some of the strongest characters in the series, and it gave him a new level of control over his chakra. The design of Sage Mode is also very iconic, with Naruto's eyes turning yellow and his hair growing longer.
In contrast, the Baryon Mode feels like a bit of a letdown. The design is not as visually striking as Sage Mode, and it does not give Naruto any new abilities that he didn't already have. Additionally, the Baryon Mode has a very short lifespan, which makes it feel like a bit of a gimmick.
Overall, I think the Baryon Mode is a good addition to the Naruto series, but it does not live up to the iconic status of Sage Mode.
