Few characters in the anime world have sparked as much discussion, debate, and anticipation as Sasuke Uchiha from the globally acclaimed “Naruto” series. A key player with a complex and layered storyline, Sasuke’s journey has kept fans on tenterhooks.
One of the most crucial questions that lingers on everyone’s lips is: when does Sasuke come back?
This article aims to delve into Sasuke’s character arc, focusing specifically on his tumultuous departure and long-awaited return.
With this, we’ll navigate the rich, emotional tapestry of the “Naruto” universe, capturing the essence of Sasuke’s character development, and pinpointing the crucial moment of his return.
Whether you’re a seasoned fan wanting to relive the anticipation or a newcomer eager to understand the hype, this piece promises a deep dive into one of anime’s most compelling narratives.
When Does Sasuke Come Back to the Leaf Village?
There isn’t a specific episode that focuses on Sasuke returning to Konoha. However, we do have the episode that covers his redemption, in which he mentions that it could be time for him to return home. This event was covered in episode #478, “The Unison Sign”, through #479 “, Naruto Uzumaki!!
After the Fourth Great Ninja War, Sasuke was held prisoner of the leaf but was subsequently released by Kakashi, the 6th Hokage, given his major intervention during the Fourth Great Ninja War.
Since Sasuke is not exactly an outlaw anymore, this could, in a way, imply that he has returned to the village.
Why Did Sasuke Leave the Village?
Sasuke left the village in search of power to avenge Itachi for killing the entire clan. To get stronger, he severed his bonds with the village as he believed that strength lies in the pain of solitude and ended up going to Orochimaru.
Sasuke left the leaf village in episode #109, “Oto’s invitation”, where the Sound 4 ninja came and showed him how weak he was and how he could power up using his curse mark if he accepted the invitation and followed them to Orochimaru’s lair. He thought this was the answer to finally beating Itachi, so he left and went to join Orochimaru.
Tsunade dispatched Choji, Neji, Naruto, and Kiba, with Shikamaru serving as their leader, to track down Sasuke and bring him back to the village.
Naruto was able to close the distance between him and Sasuke due to Lee’s intervention with Kimimaru. Naruto confronted Sasuke in the Final Valley after catching up with him in an attempt to force him to return.
They both went all out in what turned out to be their second and most critical face-off; in a later scene of the battle, Naruto is shown unconscious on the ground with Sasuke standing above him, implying that Sasuke has emerged victorious.
Soon after, Kakashi arrives at the scene, but Sasuke is nowhere to be found. This all happened in the “Sasuke Recovery Mission Arc.”
Why Did Sasuke Leave the Village Again?
After the Fourth Great Ninja War, Sasuke left the village and embarked on a journey to see the world by himself through a new perspective, atone for his sins and grow as a true shinobi.
He now works as the shadow Kage, protecting the village from outside threats and investigating the infamous Otsutsuki clan. Furthermore, his presence will unavoidably attract those seeking to gain his doujutsu.
For these reasons, he avoids visiting the village, only stays for short periods, and makes appearances when needed (To report intel to Naruto and Visit his Family)
How Long Did Sasuke Leave the Village For?
No specific dates can be used as references. However, we can calculate that Sasuke left Konoha for around five years.
At the end of Part 1, Sasuke and Naruto are both 12 years old, and then Shippuden takes place two and a half years later. At the start of Shippuden, they were both 15 years old and clocked 17 at the end of the series.
Naruto marked his 17th birthday during the Fourth Ninja War, Just days before his ultimate showdown with Sasuke. So technically, The Fourth War takes place just three months after Sasuke turns 17, as we know his birthday is in July.
In summary, Sasuke left when he was 12 years old and did not return to Konoha until five years later, after the war.
Why Did Sasuke Turn Evil?
Sasuke did not turn evil per se. Sasuke’s actions were completely motivated by emotions, as he is a complicated and emotional character. He only does what he believed was right in his own eyes.
Killing Itachi was a way for him to avenge his clansmen and make the world a little better than it was before. The purpose of destroying Konoha was to prevent people like Danzo and the elders from rising to power, forcing people like Itachi to choose between their clan and the village. The goal of reforming the entire Shinobi system was to save future generations from suffering and make the world better.
As you can see, Sasuke has always done what he believed to be right. We, as viewers, may perceive his behaviour as “evil” or “heartless” because we fail to see things from his perspective. Instead of referring to him as “evil”, we could characterize him as a complex, misguided, and misunderstood character.
Why Did Sasuke Become Good Again?
As already stated, Sasuke is not inherently evil. However, he realized his way of doing things isn’t entirely right after his final battle with Naruto. He lost his arm in this battle and declined the Hashirama cell arm that he was offered, as a way of atoning for his sins.
This is where he truly becomes good by most people’s standards. Sasuke is now a completely changed character as you can see him smiling.