Introduction

The rivalry between Itachi Uchiha and the powerful Seven Swordsman of the Mist during the war arc is one of the most compelling matchups in the Naruto series. However, the encounter would differ significantly if Itachi were to face the group without the benefit of Edo Tensei. This essay delves into the strategic advantages and potential outcomes of such a hypothetical confrontation in a forest setting.

Setting the Stage

Let us consider the scenario where Itachi, an expert in both Sage and Sharingan techniques, faces off against the Seven Swordsman of the Mist—Shinra Tensei, Tajíra, Agauchi, Kōga, Kimimaro, Darui, and Ukon—during the war arc. The forested environment provides natural cover, allowing the group to strategize and execute an ambush on Itachi, who might find such an encounter challenging without his Part 2 stamina.

Opposition Analysis: The Seven Swordsman of the Mist

The Seven Swordsman of the Mist, each possessing unique abilities, form a formidable collective force. Their individual strengths span a wide array of jutsu, from powerful physical assaults to versatile ninjutsu and genjutsu. However, Itachi's superior strategic and tactical prowess, combined with his Mangekyō Sharingan, gives him the upper hand.

Shinra Tensei

Shinra Tensei, the leader of the Seven Swordsman, wields the powerful Sibuki Hiramekarei and possesses the technique to summon the clashing swords against his enemies. Despite his formidable strength, Itachi's Susano'ō is uniquely qualified to neutralize such a heavy hitter. Susano'ō's waves of energy can clash and cancel out Shinra Tensei's sword-based attacks.

Tajíra and Samehada

Both Tajíra and the legendary Samehada tag team would also pose significant threats. While Samehada can absorb any technique, including Amaterasu and high-level genjutsu, Itachi's Mangekyō Sharingan can counteract these effects. The absorption ability is less effective if Itachi maintains a strategic advantage, using his powerful offensive techniques to counteract Samehada's defensive capabilities.

Prospects for the Akatsuki

When compared to the Seven Swordsman, the Akatsuki offers a more balanced and capable team. Members like Deidara, Kisame, and Pain (not using Edo Tensei) would present a more pragmatic challenge to Itachi. Kisame, in particular, is known for his combat prowess and ability to resist Itachi's techniques, making him a significant threat. However, despite the individual strengths of the Akatsuki members, Itachi maintains a significant edge with his superior skill and strategic mind.

Strategy and Conclusion

Under the cover of the forest, the Seven Swordsman would find the environment advantageous for their ambush tactics. However, without Edo Tensei, Itachi's Susano'ō allows him to neutralize most of the group's heavy hitters. To effectively counter Itachi, the Seven Swordsman would need to coordinate their attacks meticulously, but even then, their capabilities would be insufficient to overcome Itachi's Mangekyō Sharingan and powerful offensive techniques.

Itachi, with his strategic advantage and unparalleled ninja abilities, would likely emerge victorious in this hypothetical scenario, reaffirming his status as one of the most formidable characters in the Naruto series. Meanwhile, the Akatsuki, with a well-rounded team of skilled ninjas, represents a more plausible opponent for Itachi, one that provides a more balanced and engaging challenge.