Three new characters were recently revealed for Naruto x Boruto Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections, all three of whom possess the karma seal. This seal contains a condensed backup of a member's genetic code from the Otsutsuki clan, ensuring their resurrection within the body of the individual possessing the seal, known as a vessel. Over time, the karma seal gradually suppresses the vessel's individuality and takes control of their body. However, prior to this, it grants immense power to Boruto, the vessel. In intense moments, the Otsutsuki can temporarily possess the vessel's body.
Notably, the concept of karma did not exist in the original Naruto series and was introduced in the Boruto manga. Due to the scarcity of Otsutsuki characters on Earth, there are only a few individuals in the series who possess karma: Code, Jigen, Kawaki, and Boruto. Except for Boruto, all other characters with karma acquired the seal through their connections with the Kara group, whether voluntarily or involuntarily. Boruto's karma originates from Momoshiki Otsutsuki, who implanted the seal before his demise at Boruto's hands, thus binding his spirit to Boruto's life.
The Lore Behind Karma in Boruto
Karma seals are typically dormant and lack a significant physical presence. However, when activated, the seal transforms into a tattoo-like symbol that spreads across half of the vessel's body in a distinct pattern. The color of the seal is typically black, although Boruto's appears as blue and Kawaki's as red. In this state, the vessel experiences a tremendous boost in power and physical abilities, even gaining the ability to perform space-time ninjutsu using the karma mark.
The announced characters in Naruto x Boruto Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections who possess the ability to use karma are Boruto Uzumaki (Karma Mode), Kawaki (Karma Mode), and Jigen (Karma Mode). Jigen, a new addition to the playable characters in the Ninja Storm series, activates his karma while in Awakening Mode, enhancing his speed, attack power, and jutsu prowess.
Karma and How They Work in Combos in Naruto x Boruto Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections
When Boruto and Kawaki are near each other, they can synchronize their marks to unleash devastating combo attacks. This incredible ability is showcased throughout the manga, where it is depicted as a Combination Ultimate Jutsu and their very own signature move known as Rasengan: Unison.
Kawaki, in his Karma Mode, possesses a yet-to-be-named Combination Ultimate Jutsu when paired with Naruto, who is in his Seventh Hokage Mode. Their formidable opponent is Jigen, who is both the vessel of Isshiki Otsutsuki and the mastermind behind Kara, an organization dedicated to fulfilling Kaguya's original mission on Earth - the creation of the God Tree and consumption of its chakra fruit. Despite his imperfect vessel status, Jigen still wields the immense power of the Otsutsuki clan, as depicted in footage and trailers where he utilizes black rods, space-time ninjutsu, and his iconic Disruption Cubes during his clash with Naruto in his Seventh Hokage form.
Karma has only been demonstrated in the Awakening Modes of these three characters, suggesting that it is exclusively accessible as an Awakening power. However, Jigen relies more heavily on karma than Boruto or Kawaki, potentially making him an exception. Another character, Code, who is the current leader of Kara, also possesses karma. However, there have been no announcements regarding his inclusion in Connections. Nevertheless, there is still ample time until its release date of August 1, and players who were anticipating his presence should stay updated for any upcoming announcements. Naruto x Boruto Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections is currently in development for PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.