In the world of Naruto, there are numerous nature transformations, each possessing their own distinct power. However, these elements can be elevated beyond their normal capabilities, resulting in an exceptionally formidable jutsu that showcases the user's mastery.
This is where Blaze Release comes into play in the Naruto universe. Understanding Blaze Release can be quite intricate, as it operates in a unique manner compared to other techniques in the series. Nevertheless, Kishimoto, over time, elucidated to the fans the intricacies of utilizing Blaze Release in contrast to other styles.
The Basis For Blaze Release
In order to understand Blaze Release, fans must first grasp the foundation of this technique, known as Amaterasu. Itachi Uchiha introduced Amaterasu in the Naruto series, possessing the power to instantly incinerate anything using his Mangekyo Sharingan. Although similar to Fire Release, Amaterasu is a more powerful and unstoppable version of the technique.
Unlike normal flames, Amaterasu allows the user to manipulate black flames that are impossible to extinguish. It is said that these flames can burn for seven consecutive days and nights, indicating their formidable nature. Additionally, the heat emitted by Amaterasu matches that of the sun's surface, further highlighting its unstoppable force.
What Is Blaze Release?
Itachi Uchiha had exceptional mastery over the Amaterasu jutsu. He possessed the ability to use Tsukuyomi with his other eye, yet he demonstrated equal proficiency in both techniques. Following Itachi's demise, Sasuke Uchiha acquired the power of Amaterasu upon awakening his Mangekyo Sharingan. Sasuke could effortlessly employ Amaterasu using either eye, showcasing remarkable command over this ability. However, unlike Itachi who possessed Tsukuyomi in one eye, Sasuke attained the capacity to amplify the powers of Amaterasu even further, thus birthing Blaze Release.
Blaze Release is both perplexing and intriguing within the Naruto universe. Despite its name suggesting it is a distinct nature transformation or a Kekkei Genkai ability, this is not the case. Blaze Release has never been explicitly described as either of these, but rather falls within the realm of Fire Release. It is widely believed to represent the ultimate level of mastery in Fire Release techniques, referred to as Blaze Release. Currently, Sasuke is the sole individual known to have attained this level of proficiency, although Itachi also possesses this power. Notably, Sasuke employs Blaze Release in exceptionally unique ways.
Talking about Sasuke's Mangekyo Sharingan can often confuse fans. Many believe Sasuke only had one ability in his eye, but in reality, he had two, just like his brother. While one eye allowed Sasuke to use Amaterasu, like Itachi, the other eye gave him the power to shape and manipulate the flames. This eliminated Amaterasu's biggest weakness - the inability to be controlled by the user's will. Amaterasu could only be fired in the line of sight, making it easy to dodge or block with certain techniques like a chakra cloak. Overusing Amaterasu can also lead to blindness.
To overcome these limitations, Sasuke's eye evolved to a point where he could shape the black flames of Amaterasu. This means Sasuke could recreate and mold the flames as he desired. He could turn the black flames into a sword or create shields and arrows. Additionally, he could combine Amaterasu with his other Jutsu, as seen with Kagutsuchi Chidori.
When Sasuke wields the powers of shaped transformation in conjunction with Amaterasu, he dubs it Blaze Release. Essentially, Blaze Release serves as a highly potent form of Fire Release, granting Sasuke the ability to manipulate the flames akin to someone skillfully handling regular fire. The distinction lies in the fact that Amaterasu cannot be categorized as Blaze Release because it lacks the capacity to be controlled based on the user's volition; instead, it functions as a Jutsu that can be discharged but not properly manipulated. In contrast, Sasuke's Blaze Release empowers him to exert complete control over the black flames, akin to a proficient Fire Release user.
The Versatility Of Blaze Release
Blaze Release is an extremely versatile ability and undoubtedly one of Sasuke's most powerful weapons in the world of Naruto. Even before fully mastering this technique, Sasuke displayed its effectiveness with great skill. In his intense battle against the formidable Raikage, Sasuke cleverly utilized Blaze Release to protect his Susanoo's ribcage, preventing the Raikage from inflicting overwhelming damage. By wielding his Mangekyo Sharingan, he summoned a formidable barrier of pitch-black flames, forcing the Raikage to make a painful sacrifice by severing his own arm. This remarkable feat serves as a testament to the immense power and seriousness of this technique. Moreover, the black flames of Blaze Release offer Sasuke countless additional possibilities beyond the ones demonstrated.
In addition to creating walls, Sasuke possesses the ability to transform his jutsu into sharp arrows capable of piercing and incinerating his opponents simultaneously. This was evident in his battle against the Raikage, where he managed to push the latter back despite his weakened state.
Moreover, Sasuke demonstrates the proficiency to generate formidable swords using this technique. He can expertly handle these weapons without sustaining any burns. With complete control over their form, he can easily coat his swords with the black flames of Amaterasu. Additionally, Sasuke has the capability to merge the black flames of Blaze Release with his other jutsu. Fans witnessed him enhance the potency of his Chidori by combining it with this technique during his confrontation with Naruto.
Although Blaze Release poses a great danger in battles, it cannot be extensively utilized by a Mangekyo Sharingan user due to the risk of permanent blindness. However, Sasuke is able to bypass this drawback by attaining his brother's eyes and acquiring the Eternal Mangekyo Sharingan. With the power of these eyes, Sasuke's mastery over Blaze Release vastly improves, making him an exceptional practitioner of this technique. During the Fourth Great Ninja War, Sasuke demonstrates his ability to manipulate the shape of the black flames, transforming them into various objects such as spears, arrows, magatama beads, and swords. His control over these flames is unparalleled, demonstrated by his successful combination of the black flames with Naruto's Rasenshuriken. Even in his adult years, Blaze Release remains one of Sasuke's most formidable weapons in combat. Fans can only anticipate witnessing Sasuke continue to utilize and enhance this technique, potentially delivering even more awe-inspiring feats in the future.