It will be interesting to see how Boruto: Naruto Next Generations is developing in the future. In the new story Boruto: Two Blue Vortex, chapter 4 confirmed the removal of both Naruto and Sasuke from the main plot timeline. This is considered a wise and necessary decision.
This change allows the series to devote all its space to the new generation of shinobi. The irony is that this happened when the Boruto manga ended the “Naruto Next Generations” arc and began “Two Blue Vortex”. This is a move that marks the transition from the old to the new.
With Naruto and Sasuke in supporting roles, and veteran characters like Kakashi and Tsunade not even appearing, the Boruto manga promises to bring a deeper exploration of the abilities and stories of the emerging characters. The upcoming battles will focus on the new generation, highlighting Boruto in the lead role, moving out of the shadow of Naruto and Sasuke. This move is justified in light of criticism that the series still relies too heavily on older, established characters.
For example, in Boruto’s big battle against Isshiki, although veterans like Naruto and Sasuke were weakened, giving the performance to Boruto and his teammates, what left an impression on readers were the The new ninja is not yet ready to replace the predecessors of the old era.
The decision to exclude Naruto and Sasuke from the next big battle in “Two Blue Vortex” was a brave and necessary move. So far, the story has confirmed Naruto’s absence because he was trapped with Hinata in another dimension. And now, in chapter 4, we see Sasuke trapped inside a tree.
This development represents a significant step forward for Boruto, who has finally emerged from the shadow of his predecessors. Sasuke and Naruto’s inability to participate in the upcoming battles against the Divine Tree signals the maturation of both the story and Boruto himself as a complex and compelling protagonist.
Even if Boruto continues with “Two Blue Vortex”, the series will still face the challenge of reintegrating Naruto and Sasuke into the story. Their survival of recent difficulties should pave the way for an exciting comeback.
It would be great if both of them were temporarily absent, unable to help the new generation against future threats to Konoha. Or ideally, Naruto and Sasuke should take on a further role, supporting the premise that “Boruto” is really about the rise of the next generation.