Naruto’s First True Companion – Who Was it?

During Naruto Uzumaki‘s childhood, he was mostly isolated, but as he grew older, he found true companionship.

However, he wondered who his first genuine friend was. Naruto is recognized as one of the most beloved anime protagonists. His story is one of determination, commitment, and camaraderie as he strives to become the Hokage of the Hidden Leaf Village. Nevertheless, Naruto’s past was characterized by anguish and solitude. Due to the Nine-Tailed Fox sealed inside him at birth, the entire village rejected him. Despite the animosity and bias, Naruto formed bonds with friends who would remain by his side throughout his journey.

The Naruto fan community has been engaged in a prolonged argument regarding the identity of Naruto’s initial friend. Certain individuals assert that it was Shikamaru and Choji, a pair that formed a connection with Naruto during the Chunin Exam and have remained his companions to this day. Nonetheless, despite the fact that these two are excellent friends with the Jinchuriki of the Nine-Tails, the truth remains that Sasuke Uchiha was Naruto’s first genuine friend.

Naruto and Sasuke’s genuine friendship was forged by Team 7

Naruto and Sasuke's genuine friendship was forged by Team 7

At the beginning, Sasuke, a team member and rival of Naruto, had a strong dislike for the protagonist, and the feeling was mutual. Despite this, they had to work together as part of the same team and took on various missions that sometimes required risking their lives. However, their relationship, which could hardly be called a friendship, did not start off well. Teamwork is the primary force that should drive a team, but Naruto and Sasuke were more like cats and dogs, disagreeing on almost everything. During the initial days, Naruto was mostly a burden to the team.

Sasuke and Naruto had a strained relationship, but as they embarked on missions together, they gradually developed an understanding and respect for each other. It was during their fight with Zabuza that they finally acknowledged each other. Naruto overcame his jealousy towards Sasuke’s talent, and Sasuke recognized Naruto’s determination and unpredictability. By the time of the Chunin Exam, Naruto had made friends with Shikamaru, Choji, and others, and he and Sasuke had become close friends. Sasuke even expressed a desire to fight Naruto during the exam.

The Valley of the End battle between Naruto and Sasuke demonstrated the strength of their bond

The Valley of the End battle between Naruto and Sasuke demonstrated the strength of their bond

During their epic fight at the Valley of the End, Naruto and Sasuke acknowledged each other as their closest friend. At that time, Sasuke had accepted his fate to follow the cunning Orochimaru in his quest for power. However, Naruto was not willing to let him go, leading to a fierce battle between the two. Meanwhile, Sasuke was determined to kill Naruto to awaken his Mangekyo Sharingan, as his brother had told him that killing one’s closest friend was the only way to obtain it. In the end, Sasuke spared Naruto’s life.

It is evident that Sasuke considers Naruto as his closest companion, despite his usual attitude towards him. Their friendship, established during their tenure in Team 7, was profound. However, Sasuke’s animosity towards his elder brother resulted in his being consumed by the desire for vengeance. This led him to distance himself from Naruto and the rest of his acquaintances. Although he was Naruto’s first friend, it is uncertain whether Sasuke was always a reliable friend to him.

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