In the Naruto and Boruto universe, being chosen as the leader of a hidden ninja village is no easy task, which is why many fans were shocked when Boruto: Two Blue Vortex revealed that after Naruto's presumed death, the title was inherited by Shikamaru. The Hokage is selected based on several important criteria. These include martial arts abilities, leadership skills, and strategic thinking. Additionally, a Hokage must possess confidence, willpower, and determination, as well as empathy and comion for their fellow villagers.

In the aftermath of the Fourth Great Shinobi War, Naruto's exceptional abilities, leadership qualities, unwavering will, and widespread popularity made him the obvious choice among the village elders and daimyo to become Hokage. Undoubtedly, his determination and accomplishments sured those of other candidates, including his classmate Shikamaru. However, recent events in Boruto suggest that despite Shikamaru being less accomplished than Naruto, he is proving to be a more effective leader in several key ways.

Shikamaru Is The Perfect Hokage For A Konoha Village Facing An Existential Threat

In the Blood And Violence Of the Shinobi World, Dark Times Call For Dark Measures

In Boruto: Two Blue Vortex Chapter #17, Shikamaru demonstrates a key skill that sets him apart from Naruto and makes a compelling case for him being a better Hokage, at least under current circumstances: ruthless pragmatism. Specifically, Shikamaru displays an unwavering focus on achieving practical goals, unencumbered by emotional considerations or conventional ethical standards. He proves willing to eliminate Jura and the other Divine Trees by any means necessary, showcasing his capacity for tough, results-driven decision-making.

The best example of this is his order to Konohamaru to manipulate Moegi's lingering feelings for him - which Matsuri still retains - to befriend her. Then, when her guard is down, Konohamaru is instructed to eliminate her. This is a brutal decision that fans are unaccustomed to hearing from someone like Shikamaru — who was initially presented as lazy, apathetic, and reluctant to assume responsibility. However, Shikamaru's strategic thinking has always been a hallmark of his character. This cold, rational pragmatism previously allowed him to outmaneuver stronger foes like Hidan and Kakuzu, foreshadowing his current calculating approach to decision-making.

Tame 'em, while these wild beasts are still innocent cublings. And then ... betray them!

While Shikamaru's rationality may not be necessary in every situation, and his decisions may not align with everyone's ethical standards, a strong argument can be made in of his decision-making and why he was chosen as Hokage after Naruto's disappearance. This argument posits that in a shinobi world built on violence and ruthlessness, effective leadership often requires brutal pragmatism and difficult choices. This approach is particularly relevant during wartime when survival is paramount. In such dire circumstances, the public may be willing to temporarily set aside certain principles if doing so ensures their prosperity or survival.

Naruto Is A Warrior With A Heart Of Gold - And That's A Problem

Conversely, Shikamaru’s plan is something Naruto wouldn’t have considered, even given the existential threat posed by the Divine Trees. However, this mindset isn’t new for Naruto; it’s a core aspect of his personality. In a profession grounded in military strength and discipline, within a hostile world teeming with enemies, Naruto has consistently eschewed a practical philosophy toward threats. Instead, he adopts an idealistic approach, prioritizing the realization of his vision for a perfect world over pure pragmatism.

Some might call it naiveté, while others might view it as well-intentioned idealism. However, this unwavering belief consistently led him to underestimate or misjudge the true nature of the threats he faced. Perhaps the best example of this is Naruto's unwavering effort to save Sasuke, even when the young Uchiha seemed determined to walk his own path, regardless of the consequences. This persistence led to some questionable decisions, but as he would likely point out, the ends justified the means. While this approach might be workable on a personal level, as Hokage, he must prioritize the safety and well-being of the entire community.

This is not to say that Shikamaru's brutally realistic leadership is always superior to Naruto's idealistic progressivism. Indeed, Naruto's approach played a crucial role in breaking the cycle of hate that had plagued the village for centuries. However, Jura and the Divine Trees present an entirely different kind of threat. Based on their actions and mindset so far, it appears that the situation facing Konoha is one of kill or be killed.

In this environment, Shikamaru's ideas, though darker than what most fans could imagine, might be the only effective solution to save Konoha and perhaps the entire planet, and future chapters of Boruto: Two Blue Vortex will reveal if these methods are the most effective.