It seems that the substitution technique was not properly appreciated and used effectively in Naruto.
In the Naruto series, there are many unique ninjutsu and techniques, as each ninjutsu has its own strength and power.Β However, the substitution technique seems to defy the established conventions of ninjutsu in the work.
Rated E-level, the substitution technique is considered the easiest to learn.Β This technique allows a shinobi to avoid an opponent’s attack by replacing it with a nearby object.Β Listening to the description, this is a relatively simple and most basic technique throughout the Naruto series, but in fact it breaks the preconceived notions of chakra and ninjutsu in this work.
Let’s dive deeper into how this technique works to see the absurdity of it being only ranked E and all ninjas being able to use it with ease.
First, the key to the substitution technique is the user’s speed and the planned strategy to outwit the opponent.Β Its use is only possible when an attacked shinobi has quick enough reflexes to be able to immediately replace himself with a nearby object, in order to escape danger.Β At this point it can be seen that the technique of substitution turns out to be a complex technique when applied in practical use.
It is important to emphasize that substitution is applicable in all situations.Β The substitution technique allows a shinobi to survive any type of attack, even when chained or trapped.
However, this characteristic has led to inconsistent use of the characters.Β If anyone can use this technique, then why doesn’t the author use it as a rescue plan whenever necessary, to save the lives of the characters in some situations.Β While usually, characters never use substitution techniques in times of life-threatening danger.
In the first part of Naruto, the substitution technique was widely used.Β Audiences have seen many characters avoid their opponents’ attacks by quickly replacing themselves with a piece of wood.Β However, as the film progresses to Shippuden, this technique is less visible.
Additionally, the fact that body double magic is a simple technique that is capable of ensuring survival against almost any attack is clearly a concept that lacks logic.Β With such unexpected benefits, the substitution technique is considered a low-level technique, anyone can master it, does not require much skill and consumes little chakra.Β Even students at the academy can use it easily.
Even if you know how to use this jutsu flexibly, it is clear that other jutsu will become “less dangerous” in the story.