A great story has many aspects, but one of the most prominent elements is growth and character development.

This list will only include growth inNarutoandNaruto Shippuden,not including moments fromBoruto.

Sakura sticks to her ideals and base character for most of the show.

A custom image featuring a character from Naruto holding a dagger against a purple and blue background.

Image via Nimesh Niyomal Perera

However, she still has subtle growth stemming from her conflicting feelings with Naruto and Sasuke.

Obito is an interesting case becausebefore becoming a better person, he first had to develop into a villain.

However, he still had his shine early inNarutoduring the Chunin Exams.

Naruto-poster

Later, he would aid and sacrifice himself in the Fourth Great Ninja War.

Sai was Sasuke’s replacement and a member of the Anbu Blackops, serving as a spy for Danzo.

However, after learning life lessons from his team, Saiquickly became a belovedNarutocharacter.

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He would constantly explain how everything is a drag and refuse to work hard for anything.

One of themost underrated episodes inNarutois the Akatsuki Suppression Mission, during which the series momentarily becomes Shikamaru Shippuden.

This was a wonderful and impactful change for the character, making her a standout in the series.

Sakura healing a girls knee in Naruto anime.

Image via Pierrot

Starting out as a punk brat, Naruto would join the academy to gain attention and recognition.

His rivalry with Sasuke would motivate him, allowing Naruto to grow and develop both mentally and physically.

Almost every example of character development runs through Naruto, as he helps people be their best selves.

Obito Uchiha getting ready to unleash an attack against Naruto and friends.

Image via Viz Media

Gaara was also the first Jinchuriki introduced, besides Naruto, who created a character foil for the protagonist.

After his first appearance, no one thought Gaara would be a redeemable character, but they were wrong.

Luckily, Naruto would help him overcome his demons, and Gaara would eventually realize those who loved him.

Naruto and Neji fight in the Chunin Exams in Naruto.

Image via Viz Media

After the big reveal with Itachi, Sasuke undergoes a massive change.

His new ideals were still flawed, and he would continue to grow until the end of the series.

Keep Reading:Every Time Naruto Used 3 or More Tails of Nine Tails Chakra, Ranked

Sai from Naruto Shippuden bending low and looking serious.

Image via Pierrot

Nagato Uzumaki wearing a uniform in Naruto.

Image via Shueisha

Shikamaru scowls with a dark nature background in Naruto Shippuden.

Image via Viz Media

Hinata bleeding and gritting her teeth in Naruto Shippuden.

Image via Pierrot

Naruto returns to Konoha.

Image via Viz Media

Gaara using the sand attack in Naruto.

Image via Viz Media

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