Boruto Uzumaki joining Sasuke Uchiha to rescue Naruto is one of the most important turning points in Boruto: Naruto Next Generations. Before the Chūnin Exams, Boruto is frustrated by Naruto’s constant absence and feels that his father cares more about being Hokage than being a parent.
However, Momoshiki and Kinshiki Ōtsutsuki suddenly attack the exams and capture Naruto to extract Kurama’s chakra. Sasuke then gathers Boruto and the other Kage to launch a rescue mission into the Ōtsutsuki clan’s dimension. For Boruto, the mission is not simply about saving the Seventh Hokage. It gives him a chance to confront the consequences of his earlier attitude toward Naruto and finally understand the sacrifices his father makes as a shinobi and leader.
Why Boruto Follows Sasuke to Save Naruto
Boruto initially sees Naruto’s role as Hokage as the reason their relationship has become distant. He even uses a Scientific Ninja Tool during the Chūnin Exams because he wants to prove that he can defeat opponents and gain Naruto’s recognition. After Naruto is captured, however, Boruto realizes that his father is in genuine danger and feels guilty about how he previously treated him. Sasuke recognizes Boruto’s change in attitude and invites him to join the rescue mission.
Sasuke’s decision is also important because he has become Boruto’s mentor. He understands Boruto’s potential and recognizes that rescuing Naruto could teach the young shinobi something that training alone cannot. Before leaving, Sasuke gives Boruto his forehead protector, allowing Boruto to enter the mission as a shinobi rather than simply Naruto’s son. Boruto then follows Sasuke through his Rinnegan portal alongside the other Kage.
When they reach the Ōtsutsuki dimension, Boruto sees Naruto restrained while Momoshiki and Kinshiki attempt to drain Kurama’s chakra. The rescue party frees Naruto, and the reunion gives father and son an opportunity to finally talk. Naruto apologizes for not being present enough, while Boruto tells him that he now wants to hear more about his father’s past.
The mission ultimately changes Boruto’s relationship with Naruto. Boruto fights alongside his father and Sasuke against Momoshiki, eventually helping deliver the attack that defeats the Ōtsutsuki. More importantly, he begins to understand that Naruto’s responsibilities were never about abandoning his family. The rescue mission therefore marks the point where Boruto starts seeing Naruto not only as the Seventh Hokage, but as his father.
