Naruto | Befriends Kurama Episode
When Naruto and Killer B face off against the reanimated Jinchuriki (including the former Three-Tails and Six-Tails host, Utakata), Naruto realizes something critical: The tailed beasts aren’t mindless weapons. They have names, feelings, and a long history of being used. This sets the stage for the biggest gamble of Naruto’s life—refusing to fight Kurama any longer.
Sadly, long-time fans know the tragic payoff in Boruto (Episodes 217-218), where Kurama sacrifices himself using Baryon Mode. But that sacrifice only hurts so much because of the beautiful friendship forged in Episode 328. naruto befriends kurama episode
Before we dive into the episode, let’s set the stage. It’s the height of the Fourth Great Ninja War. Naruto has already mastered "Nine-Tails Chakra Mode" by ripping out Kurama’s chakra and forcing it to obey him. But that was a battle of wills—not friendship. When Naruto and Killer B face off against
But Kurama isn’t convinced yet. He tries to drain Naruto’s chakra, hoping to break his spirit. Naruto, however, physically grabs the cage bars and pulls back , refusing to give in. He says he won’t use force. He simply wants to fight together, not against each other. Sadly, long-time fans know the tragic payoff in
In a stunning visual sequence, Naruto reaches through the bars. Kurama hesitates, then slowly—almost shyly—raises a massive claw. They don’t just touch. They link chakras . A blinding light erupts, the cage door shatters, and Naruto transforms into Kurama Chakra Mode —a perfect, stable, golden version of the Nine-Tails’ power. Kurama isn’t sealed anymore. He’s chosen to help.
He calls out Kurama’s real name—not "Kyuubi," but "Kurama"—and acknowledges the fox’s suffering at the hands of Madara, Obito, and every human who treated him like a tool. This moment floors Kurama. For centuries, he’s only known hatred. He doesn’t even know how to process kindness.