The Fourth Great Ninja War, a pivotal and sprawling conflict in Naruto Shippuden, officially kicks off in Episode 261, titled “For My Friend.” This marks the end of the Five Kage Summit Arc and the start of the long-awaited and devastating clash between the Allied Shinobi Forces and Akatsuki.
The Spark That Ignited the Flames
The brewing tensions between the ninja world and Akatsuki, fueled by Madara Uchiha’s manipulation and Kabuto Yakushi’s necromantic powers, finally explode in Episode 261. The episode showcases the formal declaration of war by Tobi (later revealed to be Obito Uchiha) to the assembled nations of the shinobi world. This declaration, delivered via a massive broadcast, sets the stage for the epic battles and emotional turmoil that define the war arc. The immediate aftermath depicts the Allied Shinobi Forces mobilizing, preparing for the inevitable confrontation. This episode isn’t just a beginning; it’s a plunge into the deep end of a conflict years in the making.
The Key Players and Their Roles
Understanding the start of the war requires knowledge of the major players involved.
The Allied Shinobi Forces
This alliance, born out of necessity, comprises the Five Great Nations: Konohagakure (Leaf Village), Sunagakure (Sand Village), Kirigakure (Mist Village), Iwagakure (Stone Village), and Kumogakure (Cloud Village). Led by the Raikage, Ay, the Alliance aims to protect the Tailed Beasts from Akatsuki and ultimately defeat Tobi and Kabuto. Characters like Naruto, Sakura, Sasuke (initially), and the rest of the Konoha 11 play crucial roles within the Alliance. Their individual growth and collaborative efforts are key themes throughout the war.
Akatsuki and the Revived Forces
Led by Tobi and amplified by Kabuto’s Edo Tensei, Akatsuki seeks to capture the remaining Tailed Beasts to revive the Ten-Tailed Beast. The Edo Tensei, or Impure World Resurrection, allows Kabuto to reanimate deceased powerful shinobi, including members of Akatsuki like Itachi Uchiha and former Kage, effectively giving Akatsuki a massive power boost. The ambition to control the Ten-Tailed Beast is the ultimate goal, leading to Madara Uchiha’s eventual plan for world domination.
Beyond Episode 261: The Early Stages of the War
While Episode 261 marks the official start, the following episodes delve into the initial skirmishes and strategic deployments of the Allied Shinobi Forces. We see the establishment of different divisions within the Alliance, each tasked with specific objectives. These early battles are not just about brute force; they showcase the tactical intelligence and teamwork that will be crucial to the Allied Shinobi Forces’ survival. They also introduce viewers to the devastating power of the Edo Tensei and the challenges of facing resurrected enemies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Fourth Great Ninja War
What were Tobi’s (Obito’s) main objectives during the Fourth Great Ninja War?
Tobi’s primary objective was to capture the remaining Tailed Beasts, specifically Naruto’s Nine-Tailed Fox (Kurama) and Killer Bee’s Eight-Tailed Ox (Gyūki), to revive the Ten-Tailed Beast. His ultimate goal, driven by Madara Uchiha’s influence, was to cast the Infinite Tsukuyomi, a powerful genjutsu, on the entire world, trapping everyone in a dream state and creating a world without conflict.
How did the Edo Tensei (Impure World Resurrection) jutsu affect the course of the war?
The Edo Tensei jutsu, performed by Kabuto Yakushi, had a profound impact on the war. By reanimating deceased, powerful shinobi like Itachi Uchiha, Nagato, and several former Kage, Kabuto significantly increased Akatsuki’s fighting force. The resurrected ninja possessed their original skills and abilities, making them incredibly formidable opponents, and forcing the Allied Shinobi Forces to contend with familiar foes and difficult-to-defeat enemies.
What role did the Five Kage play in the Fourth Great Ninja War?
The Five Kage, representing the leaders of the Five Great Nations, played a crucial role in the war’s leadership and strategy. Initially reluctant to cooperate, they eventually united under the threat posed by Akatsuki. They provided critical leadership, coordinated the Allied Shinobi Forces, and actively participated in battles against formidable opponents like Madara Uchiha, demonstrating the importance of unity in the face of a common enemy.
Why was Naruto so crucial to the Allied Shinobi Forces during the war?
Naruto was essential for several reasons. He possessed the Nine-Tailed Fox (Kurama), making him a target for Akatsuki but also a powerful weapon. His ability to utilize Sage Mode and, later, Kyuubi Chakra Mode significantly enhanced his strength and combat capabilities. More importantly, Naruto’s unwavering belief in peace and his ability to connect with and inspire others, even his enemies, made him a symbol of hope and a key to unifying the Allied Shinobi Forces.
What was the significance of the Allied Shinobi Forces headband?
The Allied Shinobi Forces headband symbolized the unity and cooperation between the previously warring nations. Wearing the headband signified allegiance to the alliance and a commitment to fighting together against the common enemy, Akatsuki. It represented a departure from past rivalries and a collective effort to protect the ninja world.
How did Sasuke’s actions impact the war’s progression?
Sasuke’s actions were complex and influential. Initially aligned with Akatsuki, he sought revenge against Konoha. However, after learning the truth about Itachi, his perspective shifted. He eventually joined the Allied Shinobi Forces, teaming up with Naruto and Sakura to fight against Obito and Madara. His powerful abilities and strategic contributions were crucial in turning the tide of the war.
What happened to the Akatsuki members who were resurrected using Edo Tensei?
Most of the resurrected Akatsuki members were eventually sealed away or had their souls released through various means. Itachi Uchiha, after breaking free from Kabuto’s control, played a vital role in stopping the Edo Tensei jutsu altogether. Others, like Nagato, were defeated and their souls returned to the Pure Land.
How did the Fourth Great Ninja War ultimately end?
The war ended with the defeat of Kaguya Otsutsuki, the progenitor of chakra, by Team 7 (Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura) with the assistance of Obito Uchiha, who had a last-minute change of heart. The Infinite Tsukuyomi was undone, and the world was saved from Kaguya’s oppressive rule. The resolution required a combined effort and a fragile peace between Naruto and Sasuke, ultimately setting the stage for a new era of cooperation and understanding.
What were some of the biggest sacrifices made during the war?
The Fourth Great Ninja War was marked by numerous sacrifices. Neji Hyuga sacrificed himself to protect Naruto and Hinata. Obito Uchiha sacrificed himself to protect Naruto and the Allied Shinobi Forces from Kaguya. Countless other shinobi lost their lives fighting for their villages and their ideals. These sacrifices underscored the high stakes of the war and the devastating consequences of conflict.
How did the war affect the relationships between the different ninja villages?
The war, despite its devastation, ultimately fostered a greater sense of unity and cooperation between the ninja villages. Having faced a common enemy and fought alongside each other, the villages realized the importance of working together to maintain peace and stability. This led to a strengthening of diplomatic ties and a renewed commitment to preventing future conflicts.
What role did Orochimaru play in the final stages of the war?
Orochimaru, initially a major antagonist, played a surprisingly helpful role in the final stages of the war. He released the Hokage from their sealed coffins, including the Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze, allowing them to assist in the fight against Obito and Madara. While his motives remained somewhat ambiguous, his actions ultimately contributed to the Allied Shinobi Forces’ victory.
What long-term consequences did the Fourth Great Ninja War have on the Naruto world?
The war had significant long-term consequences. It resulted in significant loss of life and widespread destruction. However, it also led to a new era of peace and cooperation between the ninja villages. It paved the way for Naruto to become the Seventh Hokage and for Sasuke to dedicate himself to protecting Konoha from the shadows. The war served as a harsh lesson about the dangers of hatred and the importance of understanding, forgiveness, and collaboration.