Naruto: Why Is Naruto So Weak Post-Timeskip?

Timeskips are a common element in long-running shonen anime, as they serve the purpose of allowing the story to progress without forcing the author to narrate the mundane parts. The Naruto series also employs this concept after the conclusion of part 1, giving characters some breathing room to grow and develop without doing much legwork. While most characters came out stronger and more refined, one character in particular, the series’ protagonist, seemed rather lackluster.