Naruto's Rasengan Mastery: Does He Still Need Shadow Clones?

Even after becoming the Seventh Hokage in Naruto: Boruto the Movie, Naruto still relies on shadow clones to perform the Rasengan. The technique requires a high level of chakra control, and initially, Naruto developed it using shadow clones to help him shape the Rasengan properly.

While he has significantly improved his skills and chakra control over the years, the use of shadow clones remains a key part of the Rasengan technique, especially for creating more advanced versions such as the Rasenshuriken. This reliance on clones is essential, but why does he still need them?

Chakra Manipulation and Kurama's Absence

With the absence of Kurama (Nine-Tailed Fox), Naruto now needs two more hands for chakra manipulation. After reaching Chakra Control Mode (Chakra Control Master) Level 1 (KCM 1), he began to use Kurama's chakra for this purpose. However, Kurama's presence is not the only factor. Even if Kurama were present, Naruto utilizes shadow clones effectively for chakra manipulation.

Cooperating with Kurama and Kyuubi Mode

With the availability of Kurama and his cooperation, Naruto no longer needs shadow clones to perform the Rasengan. He has the capability to create Rasengan with one hand and even perform advanced techniques like the Rasenshuriken. This is a significant improvement from his initial days when he relied heavily on shadow clones.

His training with Jiraiya played a crucial role in this development, enhancing his overall chakra control and proficiency. For instance, Naruto can now create a Rasenshuriken with one finger, a planetary Rasengan with one hand, or easily make a standard Rasengan with just one hand. These feats are indicative of his current mastery over the technique.

Using Clones for Concentration

However, Naruto may still use shadow clones if he needs to focus on another task, such as while using the Sage Mode. While in Sage Mode, Naruto often engages in complex and demanding techniques, making the assistance of shadow clones a convenient tool for focusing his attention.

Additionally, from the Naruto Shippuden era, as Naruto advanced through KCM levels, his chakra control underwent a massive improvement. For example, a Rasenshuriken that previously took three Naruto clones to perform can now be created with just one finger. Furthermore, he can create a planetary Rasengan with a single hand, demonstrating his incredible chakra control.

In Naruto: Boruto the Movie, Naruto showed the ability to produce a Rasenshuriken with one hand instantly and with precise control over its size, density, and trajectory. This scene highlighted his unwavering proficiency in the technique.

Naruto's Evolution and Responsibility

Now, as Naruto has grown and matured, he can perform the Rasengan on his own without the help of shadow clones. Even Boruto, Naruto's son, managed to create a Rasengan without the aid of shadow clones, raising the question: why would his father be unable to do so?

Considering Naruto's extensive experience and skill, the need for shadow clones diminishes, yet they remain a backup in critical situations. This reliance showcases the balance between his incredible prowess and the occasional need for additional assistance.